2024 File Photo of John Riter and Rob Walker on tour of the new YMCA in Batavia. Photo by Howard Owens
Everyone is positive about the growth and direction of GLOW YMCA as a search to replace CEO Rob Walker nears completion, Board President Dean Bellack says.
Walker retired on Jan. 31, and a search committee was formed shortly after to sift through an initial 40 applicants from throughout the country, Bellack said this week. Those were carved down a couple of times for the three finalists.
“We did a very large search. We had a large number of initial applicants, which we whittled down to a smaller number of applicants. Then we whittled it down again in terms of the people that we wanted to do preliminary interviews with, and a lot of those happened this week,” he said to The Batavian Wednesday. “And then we've narrowed that down to, again, a very small group of applicants that we're going to be doing personal interviews with here in about a week and a half, and then we'll be making an announcement.”
Applicants were from New York State and other areas, including Virginia, Indiana and Florida, he said. Two of the finalists are local, and one is from out of state. YMCA national assisted with the process and advertising the position, and Bellack is “confident in the candidates that we have,” he said
Membership at the Genesee YMCA began at 1,100 and is now around 2,400 to 2,500.
“It’s significant growth, but we still have growth to do,” he said. We’re planning to be at 3,000. We have some ways to go, and we’re confident we’re going to be there. Typically in the summer season, the amount of people searching for new memberships at YMCAs tend to level off a little bit. We're not predicting any decline in terms of where we are. The growth could slow a little bit during the summertime, and then I'm sure we'll be at the numbers that we need to be at once we get back into the fall.”
He acknowledged that “obviously, Rob was CEO during that time” of fundraising and planning for the new downtown Batavia facility, which was completed for a New Year’s opening. He also credited the strength and dedication of “a lot of volunteers” who supported the cause.
John Riter and Paul Battaglia were integral project leaders, he said. There are also high levels of expertise on staff, including treasurer Mike Grover and Chief Financial Officer Greg Watson, who is serving as interim CEO, he said.
“It was a tremendous effort; they deserve tremendous congratulations,” Bellack said. “We’re very positive on the growth of the new facility and where we’re going to be with the association. We’re planning big things ahead.”
Walker declined to comment. An email announcing his retirement was sent out to members in the GLOW region at the time, Bellack said.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) is accepting registrations for 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 and friends. 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. There will also be the potential for a White House visit on the trip. Those who are interested in the potential tour will need to register no later than June 10 to secure a background check.
“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. A noncommittal registration is required by June 10 for those interested in a potential 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.
United Way’s Leadership Development Programs empower individuals to become impactful leaders who drive positive change in their communities. Participants engage in transformative experiences that enhance their professional capabilities, foster meaningful connections, and develop the confidence to lead teams, influence policy, and contribute to community success. Graduates will be able to drive innovation, inspire collaboration, and make lasting contributions to local organizations and communities.
“For over 30 years, our Leadership Development Programs have empowered leaders through intentional skill-building, real-world application, and community-driven impact,” said LaCerius Cross, Manager Leadership Development Academy at United Way. “These programs are designed to prepare individuals to lead with confidence, purpose, and lasting influence.”
The Leadership Development Programs are just one of a suite of leadership training offerings offered by United Way’s Leadership Development Academy. Other Leadership Development Academy programming and partnerships, such as the Union Community Assistance Network and Development of Indo-American Leaders Program, provide additional ways for leaders to make a real-world impact on our communities.
JC Starowitz commits to wrestle for Alfred State. Photo by Gretchen Spittler.
Press Release:
On April 29, Byron-Bergen senior James “JC” Starowitz committed to continuing his formal education after graduation at Alfred State as a member of the wrestling program. The official signing was witnessed by Byron-Bergen Athletic Director Rich Hannan, JV Wrestling Coach Josh Brabon, coaching staff member Brian Tatar, and Starowitz’s parents and siblings.
“It has been an absolute pleasure coaching JC over the years,” said Hannan. “I have had very few athletes join in seventh grade and wrestle varsity for six years. He loves the sport, and it shows through his hard work and dedication. I will always remember JC for being hard working, talented, and dedicated, but most importantly for his impact on his team. He is a great leader on and off the mat. JC is a great wrestler and even better person. He will be a great addition to the Alfred team, and I am so proud that he has decided to take his talents to the next level and wrestle in college. We wish him nothing but the best in the next step of his journey!”
While on the wrestling team, Starowitz earned over 100 career wins and was named an All-Star four times. In addition to wrestling, Starowitz participated in varsity football, track, and golf. He is also Senior Class Vice-President. Outside of school, he volunteers with the Bergen Fire Department.
Starowitz plans to major in Agribusiness Management. In this next step in his academic career, he would like to thank his coaches and family for all their support throughout his athletic career.
Mother’s Day weekend is almost here, and we’ve got something special planned just for you! Join us on Saturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 11, as we celebrate all the amazing moms in our church family with a refreshing Iced Coffee Barin the lobby and a Photo Booth to capture the moment. We’re also launching a brand-new message series, “THIS IS US”, focused on navigating life’s most important relationships—starting with our first topic: Being a Mom. Bring someone special with you, and let’s make it a meaningful weekend together! Location: 8160 Bank Street Road, Batavia, NY 14020
Brian Farnsworth, town of Alexander highway Superintendent. Photo by Howard Owens.
On Tuesday, for the fourth time in 2025, the Tonawanda Creek overflowed and flooded areas throughout the town of Alexander, including Peaviner Road.
This is an inconvenience to motorists, damages roads, takes farm fields out of production, and costs taxpayers money.
Brian Farnsworth, Alexander's highway superintendent, says the problem would be solved with an annual cleanup of the creek further upstream, where trees fall into the creek, creating a natural dam that eventually overflows, sending a rush of water north that causes flooding.
"If we could get in there somehow or another and clean all the trees that are down, I think it would open it up where this water would run," Farnsworth said. "We wouldn't have, like down here on Peaviner, water that runs off from the creek. We wouldn't have that. It would slow the overflow."
Farnsworth said he's hoping to secure grants for the creek cleanup. Clearly, the log jams probably need to occur on an annual basis, he said, because erosion keeps knocking big trees into the creek.
"It puts a burden on the taxpayers in Alexander because we have to keep going back to Old Creek Road and Cookson Road, and we have to keep going back and fixing the roads," Farnsworth said. "They're all dirt roads, but it just washes them out, and then we've got the material and the labor to take care of it, plus it's a major inconvenience, because a lot of people go down this road."
There is also a danger to motorists and first responders because some people do, in fact, try to drive through the floodwaters.
"If somebody comes down here and they do get stuck, it puts a burden on the sheriff's department and our first responders," Farnsworth said."They have to go in there and rescue them."
As for the farmers, he said, they get wiped out, he said.
"The various fields, they get wiped out. They can't plant. They can't do anything because of the water runoff."
Peaviner Road is now (on Wednesday) clear, and Cookson Road should clear by early afternoon.
NOTE: Members of Early Access Pass get first crack (four hours earlier access than non-members) at making Deals of the Day purchases. Join Early Access Pass today to ensure you don't miss any valuable deals.
Reminders of how the Deal of the Day program works:
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You click on the orange button, which appears if the item is not sold out, and it takes you to a PayPal button. This allows you to pay either with your PayPal account or with a credit card/debit card. The login for PayPal is completely separate from our accounts.
The first person to successfully complete the PayPal transaction wins the gift certificate.
You are eligible to buy the same item only once in a four-month period. We use the registration system to track this for you so you don't have to.
Only one gift certificate from the same business PER HOUSEHOLD is allowed in each four-month period. We do not have a way to automatically track duplicate purchases within a household; however, if we notice such a purchase, we reserve the right to cancel the purchase and refund the purchase money. Each individual buyer must use his or her own PayPal account for purchases. It's important that participating businesses not be asked to redeem multiple gift certificates from the same person/family at the same time.
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Gift certificates should be used within 30 days of receipt.
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Problems, questions, concerns about the Deal of the Day? Email Kara Richenberg: kara@thebatavian.com
File Photo of Mercy Flight at the VA Hospital in Batavia. Photo by Howard Owens
For the ninth year in a row, Genesee County management recommended funding of $12,825 Monday toward the operations of Mercy Flight as it has worked to rebound from a tragic accident and loss of a beloved pilot and costly vehicle three years ago.
Director of Medical Operations Michael Gugliuzza reviewed the nonprofit's annual report during this week’s Human Services meeting with Genesee County legislators and County Manager Matt Landers.
“We are still kind of rebuilding from the loss of our two aircrafts. We’ve made great strides,” Gugliuzza said. “We have all our aircraft back in service last year, this year, so that’s been going very well, and things are definitely progressing in the right direction, both from the aircraft perspective and our staffing perspective on the flight and the ground side as well.”
From July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024, Mercy Flight received 161 requests for helicopter ambulance service from within Genesee County, which was down from 187 the previous year, resulting in 64 transports, which was one less than 65 that prior year, he said.
Of those 161 requests, nine were serviced by the company’s flight crew in a Specialty Care Transport-equipped ground ambulance when bad weather prevented staff’s ability to fly, he said.
Of those requests, 46, or 29% were subsequently canceled as “not needed,” and 40, or 25%, were canceled due to inclement weather conditions. Two times out of those same 161 requests, air ambulance resources were unavailable due to already being on another call.
“So even though the requests were down our transfer, our transports, were still close to the same for last year, and within that, we only had, I believe, two two times that there was a request that we couldn't fulfill because all of our aircraft were out,” he said. “So again, that's been a big advantage for us, since getting all four back in service, gives us a little bit more leeway, and being able to make sure that we can cover as many of these calls as we possibly can.
“One of the things we're working towards right now, our program flies on what they call VFR, meaning you have to have visual flight rules. You have to be able to see everything you're doing and where every place you're going. And there's some type parameters we are approved in our training and shifting towards being able to fly instruments as well,” he said. “So that will actually broaden our ability to take some of these flights when the weather conditions currently don't allow that. There are still parameters, but it's a much bigger window for us to be able to take these flights, to be able to fly instruments in order to do that.”
That training would allow pilots to have IFR, instrument flight rules, most of their pilots are IFR trained, just not through Mercy Flight’s program, he said, “so they have to go through the training anyways.”
Mercy Flight EMS, the ground ambulance service, received 10,883 requests, up from 10,803, resulting in 8,250 instances of patient contact, which was down from 8,269 the previous year, he said.
“There was a lot of demand” for the ground ambulance to assist with special events, and had requests for 40 fire/police standbys throughout the year, he said.
Staff provided First Aid and EMS services to the Live Nation concerts at Darien Lake, WROTB’s harness racing and summer concert series at Batavia Downs, the Wings Over Batavia Air Show, and Batavia Notre Dame High School football games.
Although ground ambulance numbers are included in the report, there is a separate contract with the county. The county and nonprofit struck a deal that runs from Jan. 1, 2024, to Dec. 31, 2026, for $452,460 per year.
Training continues to be an ongoing effort, “working closely with Genesee County Office of Emergency Management Director Tim Yaeger” and the county’s many volunteer fire departments to perform ground crew safety training classes — providing for more than 120 first responders across the county, he said.
“We do ground schools for the fire departments to help ensure the safety and setting up landing zones to ensure that it’s the right size, right spot, right place,” he said. “Communication, so people understand how to operate around the aircraft when it lands. We look to do that every year.”
Other appearances included landing the helicopter at Genesee County Fair, and participating in DWI “Prom Promise”drills at area high schools, including Pavilion, Byron-Bergen, Le Roy, Elba, Oakfield-Alabama and Batavia.
Overall, the company continues to “kind of keep pushing the bar forward in Genesee County,” he said, “to continue to provide the best service possible, both ground and air.”
“Looking forward, the support that we've gained from the county, both in our air and our ground operations, continues to be directly reinvested back into our operation. It goes right back into personnel, payroll, benefits, equipment. We are constantly investing back into our staff and our crews,” he said. “Equipment wise this past year, we made a substantial investment for both flight and ground in all brand new cardiac state-of-the-art cardiac monitors. It was a large investment. We purchased 32 of the new striker life pack, 35 monitors, which offer us great capability to take care of these patients, to be able to do live streaming of events with our doctors so that they can view what's going on. It really raises the bar on the patient care side. We’re very grateful for you standing with us.”
Legislator John Deleo, who works in security at Batavia Downs, said he had an opportunity to see first responders use a LUCAS Device on site, and how it was “really impressive.”
This device does mechanized chest compressions, which frees up staff to perform other medical treatments or gives them a break to avoid fatigue during an emergency call. They cost $19,000 each.
“We’ve got them on about 17 or 18 ambulances, plus all four helicopters. It’s a great tool,” Gugliuzza said, answering Deleo about if they buy them on sale. “I wish.”
Landers recommended the funding, and a vote will go on to the full Legislature May 14.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) voted against an initiative that would place additional burdens on police officers while they are conducting arrests. The measure would require the New York State Police and local law enforcement to adopt child-sensitive arrest policies and procedures in situations where an individual being arrested is responsible for a child as a parent, guardian, or legal caregiver.
The bill would require law enforcement officers to take measures to minimize the impact a child experiences under these situations. Despite this, there is no mention of how departments should fund the implementation of these policies and procedures. While well-intentioned, Hawley believes this law will only create more problems by imposing further responsibilities on police officers and necessitating more spending for local departments that are already underfunded.
“While I believe this policy is well-intentioned, it provides a one-size-fits-all solution for an issue that varies so much with each case,” said Hawley. “From day one in the academy, our law enforcement officers are extensively trained to handle arrests of all kinds, including situations where families are involved. Adding extra training and more procedures will only make it harder and more expensive for our police officers to do their jobs.”
On April 11, the community once again came together to honor the life and legacy of Madison Grace Masters through the annual celebration known as GRACE Day. Created in memory of Madison, a Le Roy Central School District student who passed away unexpectedly in 2020 at the age of 17, GRACE Day has become a heartfelt tradition centered on spreading kindness and giving back. The day is named not only for Madison’s middle name, Grace, but also as an acronym—Giving, Remembering, and Celebrating Everyone. What began as a small tribute has grown into a movement that touches lives each year through intentional acts of generosity.
This year’s GRACE Day efforts were dedicated to supporting the next generation of automotive professionals by raising funds for students enrolled in the Genesee Valley BOCES Auto Technology programs at both the Batavia and Mount Morris campuses. The fundraiser exceeded expectations, bringing in $2,115 thanks to the incredible generosity of family, friends, and supporters who were inspired by Madison’s story. The funds were used to purchase gift cards that were then donated directly to students in the Auto Tech programs to help them begin building their own sets of tools—an essential and often costly investment for those entering the field.
These donations did more than provide financial assistance—they delivered a powerful message of encouragement. Each student received a gift card accompanied by a “Kindness for Maddie” card, as well as a laminated copy of the classic motivational poem “Don’t Quit” by Edgar A. Guest. The poem, a longtime fixture in the shop of George Pursel, a close family friend of Madison’s family, was included as a personal symbol of resilience and perseverance. These thoughtful additions made each gift meaningful, not only as practical help but as a reminder that someone believes in their potential and future.
GRACE Day has become a way to transform grief into purpose, offering the community a way to honor Madison’s memory while making a real difference in the lives of others. Each year, the cause changes—past efforts have included food drives, random acts of kindness, and community outreach—but the heart behind the day remains the same. It’s a celebration not just of who Madison was, but of the compassion and generosity she inspired in others.
By helping GV BOCES Auto Tech students this year, GRACE Day has supported young people pursuing skilled trades—many of whom may not otherwise have the means to purchase their own tools. These students now move forward not only with practical resources in hand but with the encouragement of an entire community standing behind them. In lifting up others through kindness, GRACE Day continues to honor Madison’s spirit in the most meaningful way possible: by creating opportunities, fostering hope, and reminding us all that love, when shared, leaves a lasting mark.
The “We’ve Only Just Begun” Senior Luncheon returns on Tuesday, May 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the South Alabama Firehall, located at 2230 Judge Road (Route 63) in Oakfield.
Lunch will be served promptly at 11:45 a.m., followed by a lively and interactive program led by guest speaker Dan Lyon from Lifespan of Rochester. Lyon, a returning favorite, will present “Name that Spam,” an engaging session designed to help attendees sharpen their skills in identifying email and digital scams.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a dish to pass, or alternatively, a donation can be made at the door. The event promises a hearty lunch and an afternoon of learning and laughter with both old and new friends.
For more information, contact LaNora Thompson at 630-888-8966.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Batavia Police Department is committed to raising awareness about the importance of mental health and the resources available in our community. Mental health affects us all, either directly or indirectly, and it's essential to prioritize our well-being and seek help when needed.
Did you know that one in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness each year? Mental health conditions can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. However, with the right support and resources, individuals can recover and lead fulfilling lives.
In Genesee County, we are fortunate to have a range of resources available to support mental health. The Genesee County Mental Health Department provides a comprehensive range of services, including:
Crisis intervention and stabilization
Outpatient counseling and therapy
Case management and support
Peer support and advocacy
In addition to these services, our community offers a variety of support groups, hotlines, and online resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, there is help available.
Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health. Let's work together to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourage those who need support to seek it out.
For more information on mental health resources in Genesee County, visit the Genesee County Mental Health Department website or call 585-344-2550. Let's prioritize our mental health and well-being this May and throughout the year. Together, we can make a difference in our community.
If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues, please call 988.
Bontrager Real Estate & Auction Service is excited to announce the online real estate auction of 3378 Pearl Street Road in the Town of Batavia, NY.
This is your chance to own a beautifully maintained single-family ranch home in the Town of Batavia! Nestled on an expansive 4.9 acres, the three-bedroom gem has been lovingly cared for by its original owners, and it's ready for you to create lasting memories.
This parcel is the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. The property boasts a spacious pole barn and a shed, providing endless possibilities for hobbies, storage, or even your dream garden. There’s plenty of room to enjoy life to the fullest, yet located just a few minutes from all the amenities in the City of Batavia.
Step inside and be greeted by a warm and inviting living room, featuring a cozy fireplace that's perfect for relaxing evenings with family and friends. The dining room and family room offer ample space for entertaining, while the two bathrooms and main floor laundry make daily living a breeze. You’ll love the large enclosed patio, a perfect spot for enjoying your morning coffee or hosting gatherings.
This exceptional property is not just a house; it’s a home waiting for you to make it your own. Don’t let this opportunity slip away—get ready to bid on your dream home at this public internet auction!
Internet Bidding Open: Tuesday, April 28th - Tuesday, May 20th.
Open House Dates: - Tuesday, May 6th at 4:00 pm - Saturday, May 10th at 9:00 am
Please carefully review all terms and conditions found in the auction before placing your bid. Broker cooperation and showings are encouraged. Contact Todd Jantzi (Real Estate Broker/Auctioneer) with any questions at 585-343-4529 or todd@bontragerauction.com. The auction can be found at bontragerauction.com, or use this link: https://bontragerauction.pro/3378pearlstrdbatavia
A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia)
Press Release:
“Every spring, we come to Albany with one goal in mind: pass a state budget. The Majority, however, seems completely unable to complete this one simple task,” said Hawley. “This is the epitome of failed leadership. Working families across this state know that if you don’t pay your bills or do your job, you’re not going to get very far. The fact that the Majority won’t hold themselves to the same standard is disrespectful to hard-working New Yorkers all across our state. It’s time for Gov. Hochul and the Majority to work with both sides of the aisle to pass a budget that will bring costs down and protect our communities.”
GCSO CO Graduation from Niagara County First row: second from left – Autumn J. Mathisen, fifth from left – Christa J. Oliveri Second row: second from left – Rocco J. Auricchio
Press Release:
Genesee County Sheriff Joseph M. Graff announces the recent graduations of several Correction Officers from the Basic Course for Correction Officers Academy: Correction Officers Christa I. Oliveri, Autumn J. Mathisen and Rocco J. Auricchio from Niagara County on May 2, and Correction Officers Laurie J. Schwab, Ryan J. Peck and Mariah A. Blahowicz from Livingston County on April 29.
“These officers completed training in effective communications, essential services, NYS Penal Law, Criminal Procedure Law, Inmate Transportation, Firearms, Incident Prevention, Pepper Spray, Defensive Tactics, among other topics,” stated Sheriff Graff. “These are all vital trainings for the position of Correction Officer.”
In addition to celebrating these recent graduations, May 4 – May 10 is National Correctional Officers’ Week, a week that President Ronald Reagan proclaimed would be observed in recognition of the important role Correction Officers play in our criminal justice system.
The position of Correction Officer, once considered merely that of a “guard,” has become increasingly more complex and demanding, involving simultaneously custodial, supervisory, rehabilitation, and counseling roles, and that complexity continues to grow. This week acknowledges the difficult and challenging job Correction Officers perform, locked within a facility for a large part of their day where they must securely, safely, and humanely keep those committed to the jail, respecting the rights and dignity of all the inmates, including those who have been found guilty and those only awaiting adjudication.
“On behalf of our entire Sheriff’s Office and the community we serve, we thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your steadfast commitment to justice and safety,” stated Sheriff Graff. “If you know a Correction Officer, please join me in thanking these men and women for their exceptional service. This responsibility is immense, and their work deserves our deepest respect and appreciation.”
The lights on the Old County Courthouse cupola will be changed to red, white and blue to acknowledge this week.
Submitted photos.
GCSO - Niagara County (from left to right): Deputy Jail Superintendent Jason R. Queal, Correction Officers Autumn J. Mathisen, Rocco J. Auricchio, Christa J. Oliveri, and Sheriff Joseph M. Graff.
GCSO – Livingston County CO Class First row: first from right – Ryan J. Peck, second from right – Laurie J. Schwab, third from right – Mariah A. Blahowicz
GCSO – Livingston County (from left to right): Deputy Jail Superintendent Jason R. Queal, Jail Superintendent Diana M. Prinzi, Correction Officers Mariah A. Blahowicz, Laurie J. Schwab, Ryan J. Peck, Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur, and Sheriff Joseph M. Graff.
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
