Skip to main content

Announcements

Volunteer firefighters train toward getting Fire Officer I certificate

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Responding to concerns over the length of firefighting training programs, the NYS Office of Fire Prevention and Control has redesigned the Fire Officer I (FOI) program into five individual modules.

Completion of all five modules will earn the participant a Fire Officer 1 certificate. 

The Genesee County Fire Training Center recently hosted several of the Officer Development modules, including the Leadership & Supervision module, Firefighter Health & Safety module, and the Planning and Emergency Response module.

The Leadership & Supervision module provided students with a fundamental knowledge of the duties, responsibilities and leadership required to be successful as a fire officer as well as the basic responsibilities of the fire officer as they relate to human resource management and common administrative functions

Firefighter Health & Safety presented the basic knowledge for effective communications for both administrative functions and emergency incidents. Students learned how to apply skills for oral and written communications in addition to conducting a size-up based on emergency incidents. Additionally, this course provided the company officer with the skills needed to identify and prevent common safety hazards and perform an initial accident investigation.  

Planning and Emergency Response addressed the fundamentals of building construction and commonly found fire protection features.  Students learned how to conduct a pre-incident plan survey; what elements to include and how to develop and manage the pre-incident plan. Company officer responsibilities were also reviewed.

Visit your local fire department to find out more about volunteer opportunities.

Genesee County Residents Completing Three of Five Modules

 

Completing the Leadership & Supervision, Health & Safety, and Planning & Emergency Response modules:

  • ALABAMA: David J. Kinney
  • ALEXANDER: Anthony R. Johnston 

                                   Sean M. McPhee

  • TOWN OF BATAVIA: Josh K. Boyle

                                             Thomas M. Garlock 

                                             Clayton A. Gorski

                                             Conor P. Wilkes

  • BETHANY: Gregory W. Johnson 

                              Richard J. Klunder III

                              Christopher M. Page

                              Kyle L. Rombaut

  • BYRON: Victor L. Flanagan
  • CORFU: Dean T. Eck

                          Gregory S. Lang

                          Tyler G. Lang

                          Lori Ann Santini

                          Daniel P. Smith

  • DARIEN: Aaron Elliott
  • ELBA: Jennifer A. Cardinali 

                       Timothy J. Hoffarth

                       Christopher P. Lane 

                       Michael J. Pfendler 

                       Michael J. Schad Jr. 

                       George M. Underhill

 

Genesee County Residents Completing Two of Five Modules

Completing the Leadership & Supervision and Health & Safety modules:

  • ELBA: Nicholas J. Esten 

Completing the Health & Safety and Planning & Emergency Response modules:

  • BETHANY: Peggy J. Johnson

                              Corrie A. Rombaut

  • LE ROY: Thomas E. Feeley​

 

Genesee County Residents Completing One of Five Modules

Completing the Leadership & Supervision module:

  • TOWN OF BATAVIA: Scott T. Maloy
  • BETHANY: Timothy J. McCabe Jr. 

Completing the Planning & Emergency Response module:

  • BERGEN: William Wittman

Take a trip back in time with the music of Old Hippies at HLOM June 6

By Billie Owens

Press release:

On Thursday, June 6th, the Holland Land Office Museum is proud to present the Old Hippies.

At 7 p.m., Bill and Kay MacDonald and their accompanying local musicians will put on an acoustic rock show featuring hits from the golden years of the 1950s, '60s, and '70s, as well as, many original songs and other favorites mixed in.

The local favorites have played all over Western New York and Florida during the winter. Let the nostalgia flow as their classic vocal harmonies take you back in time for those who remember. And for those who did not, experience the era through the music with a little more realism than you have experienced before.

Tickets for the concert are $5; and $4 for museum members.

RSVPs can be made with the museum by calling at 585-343- 4727 or by email at hollandlandoffice@gmail.com

Spots still available for Environmental Science Camp at GC Park & Forest, deadline is June 24

By Billie Owens

Press release:

East Bethany – Spots are still open for Environmental Science Camp at the Genesee County Park & Forest!

This weeklong adventure includes wildlife surveys, field and stream studies, outdoor recreation, a K9-assisted investigation, a field trip, and more. This camp is for students entering seventh – 10th grade.

Camp meets Monday through Friday, July 8th – 12th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Interpretive Nature Center at the Genesee County Park & Forest. All materials, lunch and snacks are provided each day along with a camp T-shirt.

Cost is $95/camper for the entire week. Registration deadline is Monday, June 24th.

To register, download the registration form from our website here.

Print it out and return the completed forms with payment to:

(Main Office)

Genesee County Park & Forest Interpretive Nature Center

153 Cedar St.
Batavia, NY 14020

For more information visit our website here, or contact Shannon Lyaski at Shannon.Lyaski@co.genesee.ny.us or (585) 344-1122.

Attention All: City wants YOU to show up and pay respects at Memorial Day Parade -- vets, groups welcome to be in it

By Billie Owens

An invitation from Bob Bialkowski, Batavia City councilman at large:

This is an invitation to all members of the community to participate in this year’s Batavia Memorial Day parade on Memorial Day Monday May 27th.

The City of Batavia is sponsoring the parade and we are looking forward to another great turnout.

The parade will kick off at 9:45 a.m from the Eastown Plaza on East Main Street and end at the Alva Place parking lot downtown. People can then attend the Veterans Memorial Service at the Memorial site across the street at the Jerome Center.

Any veterans wishing to participate in the parade can just show up at 9:15. Veterans needing a ride in the parade please contact me.

Any groups wishing to participate please let us know as all are welcome. Please keep the theme of respect to all our veteran and first responders.

Let’s show our support to our veterans and first responders! Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy our annual parade.

Thank you,

Bob Bialkowski

585 409-3624

Batavia Blue Devils Youth Football Camp is July 15-16 at BHS

By Billie Owens

The Batavia Blue Devils Youth Football Camp will be held on Monday and Tuesday, July 15-16, behind Batavia High School, located at 260 State St. in the City of Batavia.

Time is 9 to 11:30 a.m. both days.

Cost is $45. Cash or check (payable to: Blue Devils Touchdown Club).

It is for students entering grades one through eight in the fall.

Hosted by Head Coach Brennan Briggs and the BHS Football staff.

Bring shorts, T-shirt, cleats and water bottle.

Mail payment and the following information to Brennan Briggs, 103 Oak St., Batavia  NY 14020 OR  to: Batavia Middle School, 96 Ross St., Batavia NY 14020, ATTEN: Brennan Briggs.

  • Name of Camper
  • Camper is entering Grade ___
  • Emergency Contact Name and Phone Number
  • T-shirt Size: ADULT ___ or YOUTH ___

Register by July 5 to guarantee correct T-shirt size.

The camp will feature relay races, flag football games at the end of each day; current BHS football players, as well as alumni will speak and work with campers; T-shirts distributed and pizza after Tuesday's camp.

Here's the breakdown of what will be taught for each position; all drills will be modified for age groups:

  • Quarterbacks -- Hand placement, 3-step, 5-step, footwork drills, throwing mechanics, and ball-handling drills;
  • Wide Receivers -- Stance, start, footwork drills, hand drills, route running;
  • Running Backs -- Stance, start, footwork drills, run blocking, pass blocking;
  • Offensive Line -- Stance, start, run-blocking drills, pass-blocking drills;
  • Linebackers -- Stance, start, footwork drills, tackling-form drills, run stopping, pass defending;
  • Defensive Backs -- Stance, start, footwork drills, man coverage, zone coverage, pass defending;
  • Defensive Line -- Stance, start, 1 v. 1 drills, speed and quickness off the ball.

The Batavia Blue Devils are the 2018 Far West Champions and 2018 State Finalists.​ They have been Section V Champions four out of the last five seasons.

Discover the 'fabulous architecture' of Stafford in rain-or-shine walking tour on Sunday

By Billie Owens
Press release:
 
At 2:30 p.m. this Sunday, May 19, the Stafford Historical Society will be entertaining an event called "The Stafford Hamlet Historical Architecture Walking Tour."
 
It will be led by Cynthia Howk, Architectural Research coordinator, WNY Landmark Society, Rochester.
 
We will meet at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 6188 Main Road, Stafford.
 
Come to discover the fabulous architecture in Downtown Stafford.
 
We will walk, rain or shine, but do remember to wear comfortable walking shoes.
 
There is extra parking at the Town Hall located at 8903 Route 237.

American Legion post in Le Roy announces Memorial Day plans

By Billie Owens

Notice of Memorial Day events in Le Roy from the Botts-Fiorito American Legion Post #576:

Remembering the War Dead:

Memorial Day services will be conducted on Monday, May 27, at two community cemeteries, starting at Machpelah on North Street at 8 a.m., followed by St. Francis, located on the south side of Exchange Street.

The Post Chaplain will conduct the respective services, followed at each location with a volley by the Firing Squad in recognition of the deceased veterans.

Parade Schedule:

  • Parade forms at 9:45 a.m. in the American Legion parking lot, 53 W. Main St.;
  • Parade “steps off” at 10:30 a.m. SHARPLY, proceeds to Trigon Park.

Ceremonies at Trigon Park:

  • Introduction and “Welcome” by the Post Commander, John Graney;
  • Invocation reading by the Post Chaplain, Gary Bassett;
  • Singing of the “National Anthem” by Mary Brady;
  • Introduction of the 2019 “Poppy Girl” -- Celeste Vescovi;
  • Memorial Day Guest Speaker: Town Supervisor Steve Barbeau;
  • Dedication of Korean War Veterans Bench -- Lynne Belluscio and John Graney;
  • Reading of names and placement of flags for veterans who have passed over the past year;
  • Placement of wreath on the Monument -- Commander Graney, Auxiliary President Marlene McCumiskey;
  • Musical selections by the Le Roy High School Band;
  • Closing with the playing of “Taps” and volley by the Firing Squad;
  • Benediction and closing by the Post Chaplain;
  • Singing of “God Bless America” led by Mary Brady.

As per tradition, all are cordially invited to the American Legion Post Home, 53 W. Main St. for free hot dogs and a soft drink immediately following the ceremonies.

Closure announced for Pratt Road bridge replacement

By Billie Owens
Public Notice

 

Effective Monday, May 20, the Genesee County Highway Department will close Pratt Road, between Killian Road and Indian Falls Road for the Pratt Road bridge replacement.

Detour signs will be posted. The road will be closed through mid-October.

Book donations being accepted again at Richmond Memorial Library

By Billie Owens

Press release:

As interior renovations continue to progress at Richmond Memorial Library, the library can once again accept donations for their monthly book sale.

What exactly happens with donated materials? 

Library selectors have first dibs on all of the donated material, although very little of it winds up in the circulating collection.

“It’s just very rare that we receive a current, in-demand title that we don’t already own, or that we need additional copies of,” said Samantha Stryker, Community and Adults Services librarian. “Most of the donations are older titles, so it’s more likely that something of local, historical interest will get added to the collection, if it’s in pristine condition.”

Some donated books get used for literacy and outreach programs instead.

According to Youth Services librarian Jennifer Potter, “That’s where most of the donated children’s books wind up. Our GIFT program puts them back out in the community for free, at sites targeting lower-income families,” including schools, laundromats, Family Court, medical offices, and an annual Christmas program run by the Kiwanis Club of Batavia.

Some donated adult materials – especially Large Print books – are given to people who enroll in The Library Visits program, which delivers library services to some older adults in Genesee County.

The majority of donated books – 80 to 90 percent of them, by Library Director Bob Conrad’s count – go to the Friends of the Library for fundraising or disposal. Volunteers determine whether a book is in re-saleable condition, and if it is, they price it to move quickly, from as little as 25 cents to as much as five dollars.

“We don’t have a warehouse to store our inventory,” said Friends of the Richmond Memorial Library President Kathy Pipkin. “What we have instead is a community of readers, and a very quick turnover. Once a month, we’re the busiest bookstore in the county!”

The monthly book sale, staffed by volunteers, generates about $10,000 per year. The Friends can use it for public library advocacy, or to support library programing.

“When we serve food at a library event,” Conrad said, “it comes from the Friends. Prizes for the summer reading program, they come from the Friends. Poinsettias, coffee, and cookies at Christmas; advertising expenses, when we have them; food and lodging for an out-of-town author.

"Anything, really, that we just don't feel happy spending tax dollars on, we can ask the Friends. They have oversight and final say, and they do a lot for us.”

The library accepts donations of gently used hardcover and paperback books, but cannot do anything with books in very poor condition.

“We know it's hard to throw books away," Conrad said. "It's hard for us, too! But books that come from the attic or basement that have not been stored properly will probably have issues.”

Before bringing your books for donation, the library asks you to consider:

  • Is there significant wear and tear, such as a broken binding, or loose, torn, or missing covers or pages?
  • Is there mold or mildew? Books with mold or mildew often smell musty and are discolored or spotted.
  • Is there water damage or staining?
  • Do the books have a strong odor such as cigarette smoke?

If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, the library will not be able to make use of your donation.

Other types of materials that are not needed are textbooks and encyclopedias, but there is a free swap box in the lobby for magazines.

Donations are accepted anytime the library is open, Monday – Thursday, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., and Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For very large donations (more than four boxes at a time) the library asks you to call ahead.

The next Friends of the Library Book Sale will take place on Thursday, June 6 from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., with a preview sale for Friends of the Library members on Wednesday, June 5 from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. New Friends memberships are always welcome, and you can sign up at the preview sale.

For more information about the Book Sale, the Friends of the Library, or other library programs, please visit batavialibrary.org

Richmond Memorial Library continually provides access to physical and virtual resources and services that meet the educational, informational and recreational needs of its diverse community in a safe and comfortable environment. Learn more at www.batavialibrary.org

Richmond Memorial Library is located at 19 Ross St in the City of Batavia.

GCLP meets tonight at T.F. Brown's

By Billie Owens
Just a reminder the Genesee County Libertarian Party will have their monthly meeting at T.F. Brown's restaurant on East Main Street in Downtown Batavia on May 7 at 6:30 p.m.
 
Items to be discussed will be LPNY convention which was held this past weekend in Rochester. Mark Glogowski was elected new state chair.
 
We will be discussing our own convention which is coming up next week. Below is our agenda. Also if you know of anyone interested in running for office their is still plenty of time to submitted their name for consideration.
 
In Liberty,
Mark Potwora
GCLP Chairman
 
GCLP Monthly Meeting

May 7, 2019 6:30 p.m

Agenda

1. Call to order

2. Welcome new guests

3. Approve previous minutes (Lisa Whitehead)

4. Treasurer’s report (Deb Rosenbeck)

5. Chairman's Remarks (Mark Potwora)

6. Vice Chairman’s Remarks (Dave Olsen)

7. State representatives report (Colin McAllister)

8. Enrollment Report (Brenda Ranney)

9. State Chairman Report (Jim Rosenbeck/Mark Glogowski)

10. Old Business

   a. Rules Committee update (Rich Whitehead)

   b. ICO/Chapter Convention

11. New Business

12. Open floor to comments

13. Call to dismiss

Minutes of GC Libertarian Party meeting held April 2

By Billie Owens

Minutes of the Genesee County Libertarian Party Meeting April 2, 2019

Present -- Mark Potwora, Deb and Jim Rosenbeck, Dave Olsen, Rich and Lisa Whitehead, Joe Ferrara, Ryan Peck, Duane Wittmer and Alyce Auman.

Call to order 6:34 p.m.

Welcome guests: Duane Wittmer -- candidate for U.S. Congress 27th District and Alyce Auman.

Minutes of last meeting -- motion to accept Jim and 2nd by Dave with change.

Treasurer’s report was presented  Dave motioned to reimburse the Rosenbecks for the envelopes and printing of the outgoing letters, Jim R. 2nd--  approved. Postage was from the GCLP account.

GCLP Chair -- Meetup app is $59.94 for six months (3/30 to 9/30). Is this useful? Did anyone come to a meeting because of it? We will remove from auto renewal. Press release for candidates and letter to membership going out. Both Durin Rogers and Ben Bonarigo contacted us for endorsement for City Court Judge.  

LPNY Chair --  Convention May 4th in Rochester. Retaining an attorney, Harry Creski -- corporate and election law. Will look into the consolidation of the two entities, LPNY Corp and Interim State Committee. Thirty-six counties are moving to IOC. Fundraising will take place to set up financial accounts.

Enrollment -- Brenda Ranney’s “Turn Genesee Gold”  is on Facebook. The BOE new voter forms are on hold due to printer issues -- hopefully in April they will be available. Looking for help in finding venues for voter registration events.

Old Business

Convention date is a question. Motion to hold convention on June 4, 2019 at T.F. Brown’s at 6:30 p.m.; 2nd by Lisa -- approved. Would like to have a speaker and welcome any candidates.

Jim motioned to create a Rules Committee; 2nd by Dave -- approved. Rich was nominated to be chair by Jim; 2nd by Mark P. with members Jim, Mark P. using Mark Glogowski’s template.

New Business

Genesee County Fair July 13 - 20 -- motion to pay $50 fee for table to distribute material, provided the state LPNY covers the insurance costs required by the Fair by Deb; 2nd by Dave -- approved.

Business cards -- Joe is interested in producing them using our rack card as a template.

Comments

Duane is running for the 27th Congressional District against Chris Collins. He is hoping to raise $500,000 to finance this campaign, he feels now is time for change. He will be at the VFW on Lakeshore April 14, 2019.

Conclusion

Call to dismiss by Lisa and 2nd by Rich at 8:09 p.m.

Third quarter High Honor, Honor and Effort commendation rolls released for Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School

By Billie Owens

Today, May 3, Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School Principal Pat McGee released the third quarter High Honor, Honor, and Effort commendation rolls. The students named to them are listed below.

GRADE 7

High Honor Roll  --  Brody Baubie, Trevor Beale, Braedyn Chambry, Tyler Chapman, Hallie Coleman, Grayson Erion, Gabrielle Graff, Mackenzie Hagen, Makala Hoopengardner, Kaidance Kimble, Callista Kinkelaar, Hanna Loewke, Colin Martin, Lincoln McGrath, Stephanie Onderdonk, Nathan Parsons, Carter Prinzi, Victoria Rogoyski, Travis Shallenberger, Dylan Shanley, Riley Sharpe, Malachi Smith, Lydia Zaffrann, Megan Zwerka

Honor Roll  --  Coral Allbright, Emma Balduf, Carlee Barons, Kylee Baxter, Daniels Dawson, Chloe Gilbert, Autumn Hafner, Hendrik Haymon, Aurora Hiscutt, Dru Nowatchik, Brendan Pimm, Quintin Rich, Emma Starowitz, Liliana Vanegas, Lukas Volkmar, Natalie Zastrocky, Sawyer Zinter

Effort Roll  --  Brody Baubie, Kylee Baxter, Trevor Beale, Braedyn Chambry, Grayson Erion, Gabrielle Graff, Mackenzie Hagen, Hendrik Haymon, Makala Hoopengardner, Kaidance Kimble, Callista Kinkelaar, Hanna Loewke, Colin Martin, Lincoln McGrath, Stephanie Onderdonk, Nathan Parsons, Carter Prinzi, Lynnea Rehberg, Victoria Rogoyski, Travis Shallenberger, Dylan Shanley, Riley Sharpe, Emma Starowitz, Connor Windhauser, Lydia Zaffrann, Megan Zwerka

GRADE 8  

High Honor Roll  --  Cassidy Ball, Jason Bleiler, David Brumsted, Fiona Burke, Dayanara Caballero, Cameron Carlson, Caris Carlson, Evan Cuba, Kendan Dressler, Frank Hersom, Ryan Muscarella, Valerie Pastore, Haydin Perez, Kendall Phillips, Elizabeth Piper, Abigail Raccuia, Austin Salmonds, Brianna Salmonds, Emily Salmonds, Alexandria Schuck, MacKenzie Senf, Zoey Shepard, Matthew Tanner, Ava Wagoner, Lillian Walker, Leyna Wheeler, Hannah Wies, Kaya Wildschutz

Honor Roll  --  Alyssa Ball, Molly Belknap, Jack Benstead, Robert Gaylord, Emily Henry, Alec Kulikowski, Matthew Olander, Victoria-Pearl Parnell, Andrew Rimmerman, Joshua Tardy, Emily Yun

Effort Roll  --  Cassidy Ball, David Brumsted, Fiona Burke, Dayanara Caballero, Cameron Carlson, Caris Carlson, Evan Cuba, Frank Hersom, Ryan Muscarella, Valerie Pastore, Haydin Perez, Kendall Phillips, Elizabeth Piper, Abigail Raccuia, Austin Salmonds, Brianna Salmonds, Emily Salmonds, Alexandria Schuck, MacKenzie Senf, Zoey Shepard, Matthew Tanner, Joshua Tardy, Ava Wagoner, Lillian Walker, Leyna Wheeler, Hannah Wies, Kaya Wildschutz, Emily Yun, Nicholas Zwerka

GRADE 9

High Honor Roll  –  Corin Abdella, Camryn Brookhart, Madison Burke, Caleb Carlson, Aidan Clark, Sadie Cook, Leanna Curts, Makenzie Eccleston, Grace Huhn, Brooke Jarkiewicz, Johnathon Klafehn, Danyel Nowatchik, Madelynn Pimm, Elli Schelemanow, Kyle Schramm, Grace Shepard, Alayna Streeter, Ella VanValkenburg, Kaitlyn Windhauser, Emily Zastrow, Corden Zimmerman

Honor Roll  –  Jared Barnum, Rachel Best, Caleb Calhoun, Angelique Heick, Meghan Kendall, Brenda  Ramos Francisco, Jorie Strzelecki, Alexandra Vurraro, Kolbie Walker, Ashley Weit, Emma Will, Claire Williams

Effort Roll  --  Corin Abdella, Rachel Best, Camryn Brookhart, Madison Burke, Payton Buzzell, Caleb Calhoun, Caleb Carlson, Aidan Clark, Sadie Cook, Leanna Curts, Makenzie Eccleston, Grace Huhn, Brooke Jarkiewicz, Meghan Kendall, Danyel Nowatchik, Madelynn Pimm, Elli Schelemanow, Grace Shepard, Alayna Streeter, Ella VanValkenburg, Alexandra Vurraro, Kolbie Walker, Claire Williams, Kaitlyn Windhauser, Emily Zastrow, Corden Zimmerman

GRADE 10  

High Honor Roll  –  Mya-Lyn Albanese, Nicholas Baubie, Bianca Brumsted, Emily Chaback, Jonah Clare, Richard Denson, Veronica Duell, Joshua Fleming, Eden Goff, Sara Goodman, Devon Heick, Hope Hersom, Kelly Ireland, Carli Kirkwood, Colby Leggo, John Mercovich, Andrew Parnapy, Bryanne Puma, Alaura Rehwaldt, Skylar Sharpe, Joshua Swapceinski, Morgan Vincent

Honor Roll  –  Matthew Gonyea, Trebor Johnston, Aiden Kulikowski, Julia Pangrazio, Mason Singer, Deacon Smith, Sarah Sue Streeter, Xavier Thomas

Effort Roll  –  Nicholas Baubie, Bianca Brumsted, Hallie Calhoun, Emily Chaback, Jonah Clare, Richard Denson, Veronica Duell, Joshua Fleming, Eden Goff, Sara Goodman, Devon Heick, Hope Hersom, Kelly Ireland, Carli Kirkwood, Colby Leggo, John Mercovich, Andrew Parnapy, Bryanne Puma, Alaura Rehwaldt, Skylar Sharpe, Deacon Smith, Joshua Swapceinski, Morgan Vincent

GRADE 11

High Honor Roll  –  Julianna Amesbury, Caitlin Ashton, Justine Bloom, Alexander Brumsted, Siomara Caballero, Hannah Catalino, Alexander Dean, Madison Farnsworth, Kyle Foeller, Sara Fraser, Emily Gonyea, Chad Green, Amaya Gunther, Zachary Hannan, Rick Hubbard, Rose Hubbard, Cambria Kinkelaar, Chad Kupfer, Jillian Menzie, Wyatt Sando, Auburn Schwartzmeyer, Caleb Sharpe, Chloe Shuskey, Garrett Swinter, Annabella Vurraro, Bryce Walker, Isabella Wilder, Grant Williams, Luke Williams, Nathan Zwerka

Honor Roll  –  Megan Bogue, Jefferson Bradley, Jacey Donahue, Kelsey Fuller, Mikaela Hubler, Travis Lambert, Melissa MacCowan, Enson Nieves, Samuel Pringle, Anastasija Rebisz, Clayton Sadler, Kevin Smith, Peter Smith, Brandon Stefanski, Isabelle Stevens, Miriam Tardy, Hannah VanSkiver, Bryce Yockel, Braeden Zimmerman

Effort Roll  –  Julianna Amesbury, Caitlin Ashton, Justine Bloom, Ariana Bobzien, Megan Bogue, Sydney Brown, Alexander Brumsted, Siomara Caballero, Hannah Catalino, Alexander Dean, Madison Farnsworth, Kyle Foeller, Sara Fraser, Kelsey Fuller, Emily Gonyea, Chad Green, Amaya Gunther, Zachary Hannan, Coltin Henry, Rose Hubbard, Cambria Kinkelaar, Chad Kupfer, Travis Lambert, Melissa MacCowan, Jillian Menzie, Enson Nieves, Anastasija Rebisz, Wyatt Sando, Auburn Schwartzmeyer, Caleb Sharpe, Chloe Shuskey, Brandon Stefanski, Isabelle Stevens, Cameron Sweet, Garrett Swinter, Miriam Tardy, Annabella Vurraro, Isabella Wilder, Grant Williams, Luke Williams, Bryce Yockel, Nathan Zwerka

GRADE 12

High Honor Roll  –  Benjamin Bowman, Lydia Campbell, Anthony DiQuattro, Adam Drake, Jared Fregoe, Tabitha Fuller, Leah Gale, Emma Goodman, Annaliese Hersom, Jason Hoehn, William Johnson, Janae' Meister, Sabastian Pawlukewicz, James Roggow, MacKenzie Rosse, Brianna Shade, Wade Thompson, Kyong-ae Yun

Honor Roll  --  Peyton Armison, Cory Bater, Sarah Bleiler, Nicholas Brown, Cole Carlson, Ryan Cooper, Joshua  Hohn, Hunter Leach, Alexandra Lord, Kevin Paasch, Dekota Schmidt, Jose Cardona Tirado, Rebecca Velasco

Effort Roll  --  Benjamin Bowman, Lydia Campbell, Cole Carlson, Ryan Cooper, Anthony DiQuattro, Adam Drake, Jared Fregoe, Tabitha Fuller, Leah Gale, Emma Goodman, Annaliese Hersom, Jason Hoehn, William Johnson, Trinitty Madison, Janae' Meister, Sabastian Pawlukewicz, James Roggow, MacKenzie Rosse, Brianna Shade, Wade Thompson, Jose Tirado Cardona, Rebecca Velasco

Learn more about Alzheimer's and dementia with free education programs

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Memory loss is not a normal part of aging, and it could be an indication of something more serious such as disease that is causing dementia symptoms. The Alzheimer’s Association® Western New York Chapter offers a free education program that discusses the basics about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, which will be offered in Genesee County in May.

"Know the 10 Warning Signs" will be presented at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 7. Genesee County Aging Services at 2 Bank St. is hosting the presentation. 

On Monday, May 13, Chapter dementia experts will be in Batavia to present "Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors." This program is aimed at helping caregivers decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers and strategize to overcome these challenges. The free class is set for 1 p.m. in the NYS Veterans Home at 220 Richmond Ave. 

Registration is required for both programs by calling the Chapter office during traditional business hours at (716) 626-0600, ext. 313, or 24-hours a day, 7 days a week at 800-272-3900.

A special joint enrichment social program is set for Thursday, May 30 at the Jello-O Gallery Museum in Le Roy. This free activity is for people living with dementia and their care partner and highlights living well with a dementia diagnosis by offering the opportunity to socialize, learn and have fun with others facing similar circumstances. Registration is required by calling Lauren Ashburn or Shelby Edgerly at (716) 626-0600.

Additionally, the Chapter oversees several monthly caregiver support group meetings across the county, which allow caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges and hear advice for overcoming them:

  • 3rd Wednesday (May 15) at 7 p.m. – Richmond Memorial Library, 19 Ross St. in Batavia
  • 3rd Thursday (May 16) at 1 p.m. – Genesee County Office for the Aging, 12 Bank St. in Batavia
  • 2nd Monday (May 13) at 2 p.m. – The Greens of Le Roy, 1 West Ave. in Le Roy

Community social programs, or respites, are also available every month in Batavia and Corfu. This program provides relief to those who care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia and offers them some time to refresh and recharge, while their loved one is engaged in social activities in a safe environment.

First Presbyterian Church of Batavia offers this free service on the fourth Monday (May 27) from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For additional information, please call Mickey Rodak at (585) 455-5940.

Indian Falls United Methodist Church at 7908 Alleghany Road, Corfu, offers a respite program on the third Wednesday (May 15) from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information, call Celinda McQuiston at (585) 762-9105. 

To learn more about other Alzheimer’s Association programs and services, contact the WNY Chapter office at 800-272-3900.

You can also access dementia care programs and resources by calling the Genesee County Office for the Aging at (585) 343-1611.

Northgate Free Methodist Church to host Marriage Night simulcast event and dinner May 31

By Billie Owens

Press release:

On Friday, May 31, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Northgate Free Methodist Church in Batavia will host the first Marriage Night simulcast event in partnership with RightNow Media.

Marriage Night offers husbands, wives, and engaged couples the opportunity to hear from Francis and Lisa Chan ("You and Me Forever"), Les and Leslie Parrott ("The Good Fight"), and Christian comedian "Michael Jr."

Registration is $15 per person, and includes dinner prior to the simulcast.

Healthy marriages don’t happen by accident. They require work and dedication, but with the busyness of life and the pressures of culture it’s easy to lose focus. What is marriage supposed to look like when those initial bursts of excitement give way to everyday troubles and routines?

This event provides expert teaching and principles for a lasting relationship while challenging the couples to see the greater purpose of marriage — to glorify God and advance his Gospel. Marriage is made for more than fairy tale ending. It’s a picture of God’s hope and redemption for a world in need of rescue.

Northgate Free Methodist Church is located at 8160 Bank Street Road, Batavia.

To register and find out more information, visit here. If you have questions, you may call the office at (585) 343-4011 or email Pastor Gloria at gloria@northgatefmc.com

Invite your friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors to attend this one-night event.

Byron Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary Annual Chicken BBQ & Chinese Auction is Memorial Day

By Billie Owens

The Byron Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary Annual Memorial Day Chicken Barbeque & Chinese Auction will be held on Memorial Day -- Monday, May 27 beginning at 11:30 a.m. until sold out.

Dine in or take out.

Cost is $10 for 1/2 chicken dinner; $5 for 1/4 chicken dinner. Meals include: Barbeque chicken, macaroni salad, coleslaw; homemade rolls and dessert. Beverages available on site.

Chinese Auction is $5 per 25-ticket sheet. Drawings begin at 1 p.m. You DO NOT need to be present to win!

Music will be performed by the Hill Brothers.

All proceeds fo toward the auxiliary's mission to help the Byron Fire Department and community members.

Join is at the Byron Fire Hall on Memorial Day! It is located at 6357 E. Main Road (Route 262) in Byron.

Reminder: St. Jerome Guild's 'Step into Spring' Fashion Show Weekend

By Steve Ognibene

a76y6963.1bt.jpg

The St. Jerome Guild prepares the annual “Step into Spring” fashion show, basket raffle, and luncheon prepared by Michael Tomaszewski, on Sunday, May 5.

 The Guild and Genesee Community College will host "Fashion Show Weekend" with Genesee’s annual fashion show, “Limitless” scheduled on Saturday, May 4.  

The Guild is excited to highlight several clothing stores in Batavia: JCPenney, Kohl’s, and Marshalls. More than 20 models will feature the Jerome Jewelry Collection and fashions for toddlers, teens, women, men and seniors.

The event will be held at Fr. Slomba Hall, 19 Sumner St., Batavia, at noon. Presale only tickets are available for $20 at the Jerome Center Gift Shop, 16 Bank St., Batavia. For more information call 585.343.6030, ext. 4198.

The Guild continues to support UMMC/Rochester Regional Healthcare as a corporate donor giving thousands of dollars to capital fundraising initiatives over the years and has contributed countless volunteer hours on a variety of fundraising events. The proceeds in the amount of $5,000 from last year’s fashion show purchased four natal bassinets.

The Guild has offered an annual Health Career Professional Scholarship to hospital employees and high school seniors for decades. Currently, the scholarship is being awarded to outstanding employees who are continuing their education in the medical field.  

The Guild’s volunteerism has served the medical community for more than 100 years. In years past, the Guild sponsored fundraisers for St. Jerome Hospital; such as, casino nights, formal dances, fashion shows, and Mother’s Day breakfasts to name a few.

Pictured above modeling for the fashion show, back row is (from left): Mariah Ognibene, Alyssa Ognibene; front row, Lena Ciszak and Mia Ognibene.  Photo below at Jerome Center Gift Shop: Debbie Pellegrino gift shop volunteer, and Annette Labarbera, president of St. Jerome Guild.

Submitted by, Marilyn C. Dickinson, secretary St. Jerome Guild Inc. Board of Directors. If you have questions, contact 585.356.9398.

a76y6967.1bt.jpg

Alden Area Ecumenical Choir to perform April 27 at First Baptist Church in Batavia

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Alden Area Ecumenical Choir is presenting its spring concert this month titled “A Little Talk With Jesus In The Heavenly Sunlight.” Good Christian choral and solo music followed by a refreshment reception will make for a fun time.

The choir always takes a free-will offering to benefit local and global needs. This year’s offering will benefit Rise Against Hunger, supported by the Marilla Methodist Church and Neat Repeats, a clothing ministry supported by the Alden Presbyterian Church.

The choir offers two concerts, Friday evening, April 26, at 7 o'clock and late Saturday afternoon, April 27, at 4 o'clock. The Friday concert will be at the Alden Presbyterian Church, 13298 Broadway in Alden, at the corner of Crittenden. The Saturday concert is held at the First Baptist Church, 306 E. Main St., Batavia, between Summit and Swan streets.

USDA opens application portal for new ReConnect Rural Broadband program

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced Tuesday that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is now accepting online applications for funding through the new ReConnect Rural Broadband Pilot Program.

These funds will enable the federal government to partner with the private sector and rural communities to build modern broadband infrastructure in areas with insufficient internet service. Insufficient service is defined as connection speeds of less than 10 megabits per second download and 1 megabit per second upload.

ReConnect funding applications can be submitted now at reconnect.usda.gov.

“Reliable, high-speed broadband internet e-Connectivity is critical for economic prosperity and quality of life in the 21st century, from education to health care to agriculture to manufacturing and beyond,” Secretary Perdue said.

“We at USDA are very excited to begin accepting applications for funds from this new and innovative program, which will bring critical infrastructure investments to homes, farms, ranches, schools and health care sites in rural America.”

Congress first appropriated funds for the new Rural e-Connectivity Pilot Program, known as ReConnect, in 2018. The program will be a proof-of-concept, enabling USDA to create and implement innovative options for rural connectivity by providing various financial packages to our customers.

In this first round of funding, USDA is making available at least $600 million in rural broadband projects, through $200 million in grants, $200 million in loan and grant combinations, and $200 million in low-interest loans. The application deadlines for each of these funding packages are as follows:

  • May 31, 2019, for projects seeking federal funds from the grants-only package;
  • June 21, 2019, for projects seeking a combination of federal loans and grants; and
  • July 12, 2019, for projects seeking low-interest federal loans.

This $600 million appropriation from Congress more than doubles federal funding available through USDA’s longstanding broadband programs. Future rounds of funding for ReConnect will be announced later this year.

For additional information about the ReConnect program, see page 5981 of the Feb. 25, 2019, Federal Register (PDF, 230 KB) and page 64315 of the Dec. 14, 2018, Federal Register (PDF, 286 KB).

In April 2017, President Donald J. Trump established the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity to identify legislative, regulatory and policy changes that could promote agriculture and prosperity in rural communities. In January 2018, Secretary Perdue presented the Task Force’s findings to President Trump.

These findings included 31 recommendations to align the federal government with state, local and tribal governments to take advantage of opportunities that exist in rural America. Increasing investments in rural infrastructure, including rural broadband infrastructure, is a cornerstone recommendation of the task force.

To view the report in its entirety, please view the Report to the President of the United States from the Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity (PDF, 5.4 MB). In addition, to view the categories of the recommendations, please view the Rural Prosperity infographic (PDF, 190 KB).

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

GC Youth Bureau hosts Family Game Night on Thursday at County Building 2

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee County Youth Bureau will host the 16th annual Family Game Night in celebration of National County Government Month.

The event will take place on Thursday, April 25th from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at County Building 2, 3837 W. Main Street Road, Batavia.

The night will consist of interactive booths for families to learn more about the services provided by the county through the departments as well as prizes and activities. The cost is $5 for a family of four and $3 for an individual which includes a light dinner and beverages.

Each family will take home one brand new board game after they visit each booth. Families also have the chance to enter to win free Muckdogs game tickets as well as free six-inch subs from Subway!

Adults must be accompanied by a child to receive the board game.

Please call the Youth Bureau for more information or to register at 344-3960.

The Genesee County Youth Bureau would also like to thank Batavia Kiwanis Club, Batavia Muckdogs, Upstate Milk, Big Pauly’s Pizzeria, Batavia’s Original, Walmart, Settler’s Family Restaurant, Subway, and Tops Friendly Markets for making donations to this event.

Subscribe to Announcements

Authentically Local