Skip to main content

Announcements

Hollwedel library to host drive-thru 'Trunk-or-Treat' on Halloween day

By Press Release

Press release:

Families are invited to visit the Hollwedel Memorial Library “Trunk-or-Treat” on Halloween day for a fun drive-thru event. Kids can show off their costumes and pick up some treats as they drive through the loop in front of the library. 

Visiting “Trunk-or-Treaters” are asked to stay in their cars for the safety of all. Treats will be delivered to each car in the loop. 

The library is open for the "Trunk-or-Treat" and regular library services that day from 10 a.m. to noon

Information about this family-friendly event, as well as the other programs and services available at the library, can be found on the library’s website at www.HollwedelLibrary.org.

Residents with questions can also contact the library by phone at (585) 584-8843.

The library is located at 5 Woodrow Drive in Pavilion.

Mark Your Calendar: Drive-thru chicken BBQ fundraiser at Elba Firemen's Rec Hall Oct. 25

By Billie Owens

A drive-thru chicken barbecue to benefit the Elba Volunteer Fire Department will be held on Sunday, Oct. 25 at the fire rec hall on Route 98 in Elba.

It starts at 11:30 a.m. and goes until sold out. Cost is $12.

Coronavirus protocols will be observed. Please wear a face mask and remain in your vehicle.

"Because of the (COVID-19) shutdown, last month was the first chicken barbecue we held this year," said an organizer, Barbie Starowitz, of Star Growers Farm LLC. "It sold out so fast! Now that we can be outside again we wanted to do another one. We're hoping for a nice (weather) day."

The address of Elba Firemen's Recreation Hall is 7143 Oak Orchard Road (Route 98).

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County holds annual meeting Oct. 20 at Terry Hills, RSVP by Oct. 12

By Press Release

Press release:

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County will hold their Annual Meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 20 at 7:30 a.m. at Terry Hills Restaurant, 5122 Clinton Street Road, Batavia.

CCE of Genesee County cordially invites you to join us for an early morning of reflection and “New Beginnings."

Presenter for the morning will be Chad Klotzbach, owner of Alleghany Farm Services and Genesee County Legislator. Cornell Cooperative Extension friends, volunteers and members of the community are welcome to attend.

Limited in-person and virtual options are available. Please RSVP by Oct. 12 to Yvonne Peck:   ydp3@cornell.edu or call (585) 343-3040, ext. 123.

NY Council on Problem Gambling hosts 2020 annual conference virtually Oct. 8 and 9

By Press Release

Press release: 

New York Council on Problem Gambling is hosting the 2020 Annual Conference VIRTUALLY. This year, we’re bringing the conference to YOU! We’re offering 20 hours of LIVE problem gambling education for only $20.

All sessions will take place on Oct. 8th and 9th.

Just because we can’t meet in person doesn’t mean we can’t see each other and connect. We’re excited to be offering networking sessions and online tools to support attendees and presenters who want to connect virtually.

Join your local Western NY Problem Gambling Resource Center staff, Jeffrey Wierzbicki and Angela DiRosa for 20 hours of virtual problem gambling education and partnership building. Check out all the exciting training and networking opportunities we are offering at this year's conference; attending is easier than ever!

Click here for more details! 

Or email: WesternPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org for a registration link.

Choose your own course in Nov. 1 walk to raise money to fight Huntington's disease

By Press Release
Press release:

The Huntington's Disease Society of America's (HDSA) New York/New Jersey Region will be hosting the Upstate NY Virtual Team Hope Walk on Sunday, Nov. 1.

HD is a fatal genetic disease that affects the nerve cells in the brain. In New York, the total HD population is more than 19,000.

Team Hope is HDSA’s largest national grassroots fundraising event. Thousands of families, friends, coworkers, neighbors and communities walk together each year to support HDSA's fight to improve the lives of people affected by Huntington's disease (HD) and their families.

A virtual walk is a real walk, but on your terms: You get to choose your own course, you can walk in your driveway, neighborhood, in your house and even on treadmill! 

To donate and/or register for the walk, click here.

Northgate church relaunching help groups this month through year's end

By Press Release

Press release:

Northgate Free Methodist Church in Batavia is continually opening its doors to the community and is inviting everyone to their events throughout September and the rest of this year. In addition to worship services, Northgate offers dozens of volunteer-led small groups, many of which are open to the public.

Several groups relaunch this month, including:

GriefShare, a 13-week group designed to help and encourage those grieving the loss of a loved one due to death. The format is a weekly video presentation and discussion time that offers hope and comfort. Find more information at http://www.griefshare.org/about. Meetings will take place on Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m., starting Sept. 15th. To sign up, visit https://northgatefmc.churchcenter.com/groups/ There is a $15 cost for workbooks, scholarships available.

DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Don’t go through separation or divorce alone. DivorceCare seminars and support groups are led by people who understand what you are going through and want to help. You will learn how to heal from the deep hurt of divorce and discover hope for your future. A new 13-week session begins on Saturday, Sept. 19th, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. To sign up, visit https://northgatefmc.churchcenter.com/groups/ There is a $15 cost for workbooks, scholarships available.

Mothers of Preschoolers or “MOPS” are women who gather together twice a month to share and support each other in the remarkable journey that is motherhood. Meetings consist of relevant speakers, fun crafts, supportive conversations and fellowship. Moms can choose a 9 o'clock morning group or a 6:30 evening group. MOPS is open to all moms with children from birth until their youngest child finishes kindergarten. Groups will be meeting online through the end of the year, with hopes to meet in person in 2021. Membership is currently $32, scholarships are available. Register at our Popsicles at the Pavilion event on Sept. 19, 11 a.m. at 8160 Bank Street Road, Batavia, or visit https://northgatefmc.churchcenter.com/groups/

Celebrate Recovery meets every Thursday evening at 6:30 (including any and all holidays that fall on a Thursday, unless there is a serious snow storm) at our North Campus. Our CR leaders guide and assist those of us who are gaining joy and freedom in Christ as we apply the 12-Steps of Celebrate Recovery to the hurts, habits and hang-ups we all struggle with. All are welcome! We believe anyone and everyone would benefit by attending this group, where we allow God to transform our lives. We are able to share openly and honestly about our struggles with people we come to trust, who will maintain confidentiality, and who will not judge us. For more info, go to: https://northgatecr.weebly.com/

For more information about any of these groups or other events, please contact the Northgate office at (585) 343-4011 or email office@northgatefmc.com

​Genesee County 4-H members complete tractor safety and machinery operation certification

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and press release:

On Tuesday, Sept. 1, the Genesee County 4-H Program announced that 13 local youths completed their National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Certification on Saturday, Aug. 22nd.

The NSTMOP Tractor Safety Certification allows youth age 14 and 15 years of age to legally operate farm equipment for hire.

The program includes training on farm safety, tractor safety, tractor operation and other related topics. After completing the training course, youth are required to pass a written knowledge test and driving test to receive the certification.

Completion of this year’s program was delayed due to public gathering restrictions prompted by the coronavirus pandemic. The program was able to safely resume in August to allow participants to complete their certification.

The Genesee County 4-H Tractor Safety Program is made possible by the generosity of 4-H Volunteer Instructors and several local tractor and machinery dealerships. The program is typically held January through March.

For information about the 2021 Tractor Safety Program or about joining the Genesee County 4-H Program, please contact the 4-H Office at genesee4h@cornell.edu or (585) 343-3040, ext. 131.

Enrollment forms are also available online here.

Editor's Note: We tried but were unsuccessful in getting the names of those who were certified.

Now is a great time to become a 4-H volunteer or start a local 4-H Club

By Press Release

Press release:

Now is a great time to become a 4-H volunteer or start a local 4-H Club with the Genesee County 4-H Program.

The 4-H Program is a youth development program for youth ages 5-18. 4-H connects youth to hands-on learning opportunities that help them grow into competent, caring, contributing members of society.

The Genesee County 4-H Program would not be possible without the time and talents of its volunteers.

Volunteers are essential to the program and allow you to share your knowledge and hobbies with interested youth.  4-H volunteer opportunities range from coordinating monthly club meetings to leading a one-time gardening project. Whatever you have to offer, 4-H has a place for you! 

Genesee County 4-H Volunteer opportunities include:

  • Lead a 4-H project in an area that excites you, such as cooking, woodworking, sewing, or animal science;
  • Coordinate a 4-H Club by planning monthly meetings and projects with club families;
  • Judge 4-H public speaking presentations;
  • Lead a 4-H livestock event or contest;
  • Coordinate a 4-H activity at the county fair;
  • Help with fundraising;
  • Become a certified Shooting Sports Instructor.

For more information about joining the Genesee County 4-H Program, please contact the 4-H Office at genesee4h@cornell.edu or (585) 343-3040, ext. 131. Enrollment forms are also available on our website.

Drop off worn, faded, unpresentable U.S. flags at Le Roy's American Legion post, disposal ceremony is Sunday

By Billie Owens

This year’s annual ceremonial disposal of U.S. flags by the Botts Fiorito American Legion Post #576  in Le Roy will be conducted in partnership with the Northwoods Sportsman’s Club with support from the Le Roy Fire Department. 

  • Fifth Annual Disposal of Flags Ceremony -- Sunday, Aug. 9th at 1 p.m. SHARP!
  • Northwoods Sportsman’s Club, 8402 Gulf Road, Le Roy

Old, faded or otherwise unpresentable U.S. flags may be dropped off at the American Legion Post Home, 53 W. Main St. An outside receptacle is available for your use.

All are invited to attend while maintaining social distancing.

East Bethany Presbyterian Church will not have holiday vendor and craft show this year

By Billie Owens

The East Bethany Presbyterian Church has made the difficult decision to postpone the annual Holiday Happenings Vendor and Craft Show scheduled for November.

Please mark your calendars for next year -- Saturday, Nov. 6th, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.!

We pray for everyone’s good health and safety. Thank you for your continued support! 

Thank you,

Sharon Smith

Vacation Bible School offered next month at First Presbyterian Church of Batavia: Go on a virtual quest for the King's armor

By Billie Owens

First Presbyterian Church in Batavia is offering free Vacation Bible School for 4-year-old children through fifth grade from Aug. 10 to 14.

Hey kids, get ready to join the Knights of North Castle on a quest for the King's armor! The materials used are from Cokesbury's Vacation Bible School (cokesburykids.com).

This is a virtual experience with the first day opening worship in person, and to pick up storybooks and craft bags in the church parking lot at 300 E. Main St. That will be from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10.

Then at 9 a.m. on Tuesday through Thursday, Aug. 11-13, there will be songs and story time online.

On the last day, from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14, there will be a closing celebration in the church parking lot.

For in-person events, coronavirus courtesy will be practiced.

Please register online here.

Church contact is Wendy Daniszewski, (585) 343-0505. Email:   wendydaniszewski@yahoo.com

Lake Plains Community Care Network is available to help people apply for health insurance

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced he is extending the open enrollment for health insurance for another month. The deadline for anyone who wants, or needs to apply for health insurance, the extension is now to July 15th.

Anyone who has questions, lost income, lost health insurance or needs help navigating the NYS of Health website can give Lake Plains Community Care Network a call at (585) 345-6110 and talk to a Navigator.

Applications are completed telephonically. Assistance with locating other resources are also available.

Charlotte Crawford RN, MSN, MBA

Chief Executive Officer

Lake Plains Community Care Network

575 E. Main St., Batavia

Tuesday's Primary: Town of Pavilion GOP endorses James Cleveland for Highway Superintendent

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Town of Pavilion Republican Committee would like to remind the residents of Pavilion that the Republican Primary is Tuesday, June 23rd and that the polls will be open at the Town Building located at 1 Woodrow Drive, Pavilion.

The Pavilion Republican Committee has endorsed James Cleveland for Pavilion Highway Superintendent.

He has nearly 20 years of highway experience, has built a great working relationship with community organizations such as the library and school, and with neighboring town highway departments.

Look for James Cleveland on the June 23rd Primary Ballot.

Milestones / Birth Announcement

By Beth Scroger

Born to Melanie (Scroger) and James Nichols, a son, Macklin James Nichols on Friday, April 10, 2020.

U.S. Postal Service hiring temporary clerk assistants in Western NY Post Offices

By Billie Owens

Press release:

U.S. Postal Service is looking to hire temporary clerk assistants in Post Offices around Western NY (Buffalo, Rochester, Jamestown, Elmira and surrounding areas).

The deadline to apply is April 11.

Pay is $17.95 per hour. THE ONLY WAY TO APPLY IS TO GO TO www.usps.com/careers.

From the website, click on “Search Jobs” select “New York,” click “Start,” and then click on the link for the appropriate job.

A general overview of USPS employment requirements, specific job requirements, and hourly pay is available at the website.

Applicants must be 18 years of age, or 16 years of age with a high school diploma. All applicants must be able to pass drug screening and a criminal background investigation. Some positions require an exam.

Any position that has a driving requirement will also require a valid driver’s license and a clean DMV two-year driving history. Citizenship or permanent resident status is required.

Additionally, if an applicant has been outside of the U.S. for more than six months out of the last five years, the Postal Service is not able to process a clearance for them. This applies to both U.S. Citizens and non-U.S. Citizens.

Job openings will be regularly updated; additional positions are available. Interested applicants should log on to http://usps.com/careers frequently to check for new postings.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

Isolation due to COVID-19, stress and anxiety can worsen some people's urge to gamble

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Isolation due to the COVID-19 can be especially difficult for those struggling with gambling problems. Extra time, stress and anxiety, access to gambling on the internet, and an increase in online gambling options are a recipe for trouble.

People struggling with gambling problems, or in recovery from problem gambling, may find this isolation to be especially difficult.

If you have noticed extra stress, anxiety, anger, uncontrollable urges to gamble or an increase in gambling activities there are options for help. If your loved one is struggling to control their gambling, help is available for you, too.

Contact the Western Problem Gambling Resource Center at (716) 833-4274.

The Great Batavia Train Show March 29 at Call Arena is canceled

By Billie Owens

The Great Batavia Train Show scheduled for 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 29, at the Richard C. Call Arena at Genesee Community College has been canceled due to coronavirus restrictions intended to reduce crowds and the spread of the virus.

The fall show is scheduled at the venue on Sunday, Nov. 15.

For information about table availability for the fall show, contact the Genesee Society of Model Engineers:   bataviatrainshow@gsme.org

Visit their website here.

Old-style all-you-can-eat breakfast at Bethany Community Center March 29 to benefit Bethany Volunteer Fire Department

By Billie Owens

The old-style breakfast is back!

The Bethany Volunteer Fire Department will host an all-you-can-eat breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon on Sunday, March 29 at the Bethany Community Center.

Cost is $9 for adults;$5 for children 7 to 12; and kids 6 and under eat free.

Enjoy scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, pancakes, sausage gravy and biscuits, and home fries!

All proceeds benefit the Bethany Volunteer Fire Company.

Bethany Community Center is located at 10510 Bethany Center Road in East Bethany.

Authentically Local