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Wilmot Cancer Institute Batavia Welcomes New Physicians, Nurse Practitioners

By Press Release

Press release:

Cancer patients in the Batavia area have new options for oncology providers as the team at UR Medicine’s Wilmot Cancer Institute (WCI) Batavia grows, adding two new physicians and two new nurse practitioners. The team additions will help improve access and enhance cancer care for patients in the area.

Khush Aujla, M.D., recently joined WCI Batavia as a radiation oncologist. He sees patients at WCI Batavia on Mondays and Thursdays. Prior to joining the team, he completed his residency in Radiation Oncology at URMC. Aujla also completed a medicine internship at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, where he also earned his Doctorate of Medicine and bachelor’s degrees.

Kevin Mudd, M.D., continues to work on the Radiation Oncology team as well, seeing patients three days per week.

Julie Natale, DNP, FNP-C, joined the WCI Batavia Radiation Oncology team as a nurse practitioner, working in Batavia two days per week. She previously worked as the nurse manager for Radiation Oncology at the James P. Wilmot Cancer Center in Rochester.

Bruce Yirinec, M.D., joined WCI Batavia as of Oct. 1 as a medical oncologist. He previously worked at Rochester Regional Health’s Clifton Springs Hospital. Yirinec completed fellowships in Hematology at URMC and at the University of Virginia Medical Center. He earned his Doctorate in Medicine degree from Dartmouth Medical School.

Jennifer Richard, AGPCNP, also joined the team, working as a nurse practitioner on the Medical Oncology side with Yirinec. She previously worked with Strong Memorial Hospital’s Memory Care Program and the URMC Stroke team. Prior to that, she worked as a registered nurse at the inpatient unit on the sixth floor of the Wilmot Cancer Center in Rochester.

“I’m so excited to expand our clinical presence in Batavia,” says Jonathan W. Friedberg, M.D., M.M.Sc., director of Wilmot Cancer Institute. “The community has embraced Wilmot, and our goal remains that our patients will have access to the best cancer care, including innovative clinical trials, in Genesee County.”

To contact WCI Batavia for more information or to set up an appointment, call (585) 344-3050 for Radiation Oncology or (585) 602-4050 for Medical Oncology.

Liberty Pumps celebrates newest expansion

By Press Release

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Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) joined state and local partners in celebrating the latest expansion by Liberty Pumps at a groundbreaking event today.

Liberty Pumps hosted the celebration at the site of their upcoming Materials Center. The 107,00 square-foot expansion is anticipated to support 30 additional jobs at the family- and employee-owned manufacturer.

“We’re excited to begin another project that will benefit our approximately 300 employees, and add to our presence in Genesee County,” said Charlie Cook, CEO and Chairman of Liberty Pumps. “This project will relieve congestion in our current structure and free up much-needed manufacturing space for large pump systems. That’s become a significant part of our business, and we’re pleased to better support our customers with this addition.”

The addition to Liberty Pumps’ facilities, 7000 Apple Tree Avenue, continues the company’s growth in Genesee County. Since opening in 1965, Liberty Pumps has become a leading manufacturer of sump, effluent, and sewage pumps and systems for residential, commercial, municipal, and industrial applications.

The project breaking ground will be the third expansion by Liberty Pumps since 2000 at Apple Tree Acres, a 185-acre business park developed by the GCEDC.

Upon completion, Liberty Pumps will have approximately 350,000 square feet of facilities at Apple Tree Acres.

"With each expansion and investment, Liberty Pumps has shown a path to grow our economy, reward our talented workforce, and support our community," said GCEDC President & CEO Steve Hyde. "We're excited that another milestone is fast approaching. This groundbreaking celebration is just the start of more great activity in Bergen and at Apple Tree Acres. We thank Liberty Pumps for leading the way."

Photos by Howard Owens

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Assemblyman Steve Hawley.

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Shelly Stein, chair of the Genesee County Legislature with Charlie Cook, CEO of Liberty Pumps.

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Town of Bergen Supervisor Ernie Haywood

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Red Osier in Stafford opens new garden patio

By Howard B. Owens

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Steve Foster and Tim Adams cut the ribbon on the Valerie-Lynn Memorial Garden Patio at The "Original" Red Osier Landmark Restaurant.  The patio was built in honor of Valerie Di Falco and Lynda Bird. It will provide the patrons of the restaurant with another option to enjoy the space. It is complete with outdoor heaters, seating, a patio bar, a full menu, and special patio appetizers.

Photo courtesy the Chamber of Commerce.

Tompkins Financial Corporation Reports Increased Cash Dividend

By Press Release

Press release:

ITHACA, NY - Tompkins Financial Corporation (NYSE American:TMP)

Tompkins Financial Corporation announced today that its Board of Directors approved payment of a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.57 per share, payable on November 15, 2021, to common shareholders of record on November 2, 2021.  The dividend amount represents an increase of $0.03 or 5.6% over the dividend paid in the third quarter of 2021.

Tompkins Financial Corporation is a financial services company serving the Central, Western, and Hudson Valley regions of New York and the Southeastern region of Pennsylvania.  Headquartered in Ithaca, NY, Tompkins Financial is parent to Tompkins Trust Company, Tompkins Bank of Castile, Tompkins Mahopac Bank, Tompkins VIST Bank, and Tompkins Insurance Agencies, Inc., and offers wealth management services through Tompkins Financial Advisors.  The Company’s banks have announced plans for a rebranding effort, pursuant to which the Company’s four wholly-owned banking subsidiaries will be combined into one bank, with The Bank of Castile, Mahopac Bank, and VIST Bank merging with and into Tompkins Trust Company.  The combined bank will conduct business under the “Tompkins” brand name, with a legal name of “Tompkins Community Bank.”

For more information on Tompkins Financial, visit www.tompkinsfinancial.com.

 

Tompkins Financial Corporation Reports Third Quarter Earnings

By Press Release

Press release:

ITHACA, NY - Tompkins Financial Corporation (NYSE American: TMP)

Tompkins Financial Corporation reported diluted earnings per share of $1.45 for the third quarter of 2021, compared to $1.63 reported for the third quarter of 2020.  Net income for the third quarter of 2021 was $21.3 million, compared to $24.2 million for the same period in 2020.  Results for the third quarter of 2021 were negatively impacted by approximately $4.1 million ($0.21 per share) of nonrecurring expenses related to the prepayment of borrowings and the redemption of trust preferred securities. Though these transactions had a negative impact on current period earnings, they are expected to have a favorable impact on future earnings by way of reduced interest expense.  Additional details on these nonrecurring transactions are described below.  

For the year-to-date period ended September 30, 2021, diluted earnings per share were $4.72, up 31.5% from $3.59 for the same year-to-date period in 2020.  Year-to-date net income was $69.8 million for the nine-month period ended September 30, 2021, up 30.2% compared to $53.6 million for the same period in 2020. 

Tompkins President and CEO, Stephen Romaine, commented, "We are pleased to report record earnings performance through the first nine months of 2021.  The third quarter of 2021 was down from the same quarter last year due to some nonrecurring expenses related to discretionary debt restructuring transactions.  Despite higher expenses related to these transactions, several positive revenue trends were noted during the quarter, including growth in both net interest income and noninterest income when compared to the second quarter this year."   

SELECTED HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE THIRD QUARTER:

•       Net interest income was $56.1 million for the third quarter of 2021, up from $54.8 million reported in the second quarter of 2021, and down from $58.3 million reported in the same quarter of 2020.  Net interest income in the third quarter of 2021 included a $1.2 million purchase accounting charge related to the redemption of $10.0 million in trust preferred securities. Net interest income for the second quarter of 2021 included a $650,000 purchase accounting charge related to the redemption of $5.2 million in trust preferred securities.

•       Total loans at September 30, 2021 were $5.1 billion compared to $5.4 billion at September 30, 2020, and $5.3 billion at year end 2020.  The $301.5 million change in total loans compared to September 30, 2020, reflected a decline of $322.1 million in loans under the U.S. Small Business Administration's Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP") at the end of the third quarter of 2021 compared to the end of the third quarter of 2020. 

•       Largely stable credit conditions and improving macroeconomic trends contributed to a lower allowance for credit losses at September 30, 2021 when compared to September 30, 2020.  The provision for credit losses for the quarter and year-to-date periods ended September 30, 2021 were credits of $1.2 million and $6.1 million, respectively, compared to a credit of $218,000 and an expense of $17.4 million, respectively, for the same periods in 2020.  

•       Noninterest income for the quarter was $20.9 million, reflecting an increase of 10.6% over the second quarter of 2021, and 10.4% over the third quarter of 2020. 

•       Noninterest expense for the quarter was $50.2 million, an increase of 5.8% over the second quarter of 2021, and 7.3% over the same quarter last year.  The increase in the third quarter of 2021 was largely related to $2.9 million of penalties related to prepayment of $135.0 million of FHLB borrowings.

NET INTEREST INCOME

The net interest margin was 2.89% for the third quarter of 2021, compared to 2.91% for the second quarter of 2021, and 3.26% for the third quarter of 2020.  Net interest income was $56.1 million for the third quarter of 2021, compared to $58.3 million for the third quarter of 2020.  Interest income for the third quarter of 2021 included $3.3 million of net deferred loan fees associated with PPP loans, compared to net deferred PPP loan fees of $2.4 million in the third quarter of 2020.  Interest expense for the third quarter of 2021 was negatively impacted by an accelerated non-cash purchase accounting discount of $1.2 million related to the redemption of $10.0 million in trust preferred securities.

For the year-to-date period ended September 30, 2021, net interest income of $166.0 million was down 1.0% when compared to the nine month period ended September 30, 2020.  For the year-to-date period in 2021, net deferred loan fees associated with PPP loans were approximately $8.0 million as compared to $4.8 million in the same period of 2020.  Interest expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2021, was negatively impacted by an accelerated non-cash purchase accounting discount of $1.9 million related to the redemption of $15.2 million in trust preferred securities.  The $15.2 million in redeemed trust preferred securities carried a weighted average interest rate of 5.26% at the time they were redeemed and had a weighted average final maturity of slightly more than 11 years. 

 

Average loans for the quarter ended September 30, 2021 were $5.1 billion compared to $5.4 billion in the same period in 2020.  The $285.0 million change in average loan balances was primarily due to a decline in average PPP loans from the third quarter of 2020 to the third quarter of 2021.

 

Average securities for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, were up $788.2 million or 54.0% when compared to the same period in 2020.  The increase is mainly a result of investing excess cash, driven by deposit growth and PPP loan forgiveness. 

Asset yields for the quarter ended September 30, 2021 were down 44 basis points compared to the quarter ended September 30, 2020, which reflects the impact of reductions in market interest rates over the trailing twelve-month period as well as a greater percentage of earning assets being comprised of lower yielding securities and interest bearing balances due from banks, when compared to the same period in 2020.

Average total deposits for the third quarter of 2021 were up $571.9 million, or 9.0% compared to the same period in 2020.  Average noninterest bearing deposits for the three months ended September 30, 2021 were up $267.5 million or 14.1% compared to the three months ended September 30, 2020.  Average deposit balances continue to benefit from the PPP loan program, as the majority of the proceeds of the PPP loans funded by Tompkins during 2020 and the first half of 2021 were deposited in Tompkins checking accounts. The total cost of interest-bearing liabilities was 0.39% for the quarter ended September 30, 2021, a decline of 11 basis points from the quarter ended September 30, 2020.

NONINTEREST INCOME

Noninterest income of $20.9 million for the third quarter of 2021, was up 10.4% compared to the same period in 2020.  For the year-to-date period, noninterest income of $59.7 million was up 8.5% from the same period in 2020.  Growth over the same quarter and nine-month periods in the prior year was supported by increases in nearly all fee income categories, including Insurance commissions and fees (up 10.3% for the quarter, 11.7% for the year-to-date period), Investment services income (up 15.5% for the quarter, 15.6% for the year-to-date period), Service charges on deposit accounts up (13.4% for the quarter, down 2.0% for the year-to-date period), and Card services income (up 12.3% for the quarter, 16.9% for the year-to-date period).   Noninterest income represented 27.1% of total revenues for the third quarter of 2021, as compared to 24.5% of total revenues for the third quarter of 2020.

NONINTEREST EXPENSE

Noninterest expense was $50.2 million for the third quarter of 2021, up $3.4 million, or 7.3%, from the third quarter of 2020.  For the year-to-date period, noninterest expense was $142.1 million, up $4.4 million or 3.2% from the same period in 2020.  Included in the quarter and year-to-date periods of 2021 were penalties of $2.9 million related to the prepayment of $135.0 million in FHLB fixed-rate advances.  The advances, which were paid off in September 2021, carried a weighted average interest rate of 2.26% and had a weighted average maturity of 1.25 years. 

INCOME TAX EXPENSE

The Company's effective tax rate was 23.7% for the third quarter of 2021, compared to 20.7% for the same period in 2020.  The effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was 22.1%, compared to 20.4% reported for the same period in 2020. 

ASSET QUALITY

The allowance for credit losses represented 0.91% of total loans and leases at September 30, 2021, down from 0.92% at June 30, 2021, and 0.98% at December 31, 2020. The ratio of the allowance to total nonperforming loans and leases declined to 76.2% at September 30, 2021, compared to 88.3% at June 30, 2021, and 112.9% at December 31, 2020.

The provision for credit loss expense for the third quarter of 2021 was a credit of $1.2 million compared to a credit of $218,000 for the same period in 2020. Net charge-offs for the quarter ended September 30, 2021 were $69,000 compared to net recoveries of $12,000 reported for the same period in 2020. Provision expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2021 was a credit of $6.1 million, compared to an expense of $17.4 million for the same period in 2020. 

Nonperforming loans and leases totaled $60.7 million at September 30, 2021, compared to $53.8 million at June 30, 2021, and $45.8 million at December 31, 2020. The increase in nonperforming loans and leases compared to prior quarter end and year end 2020 was related to two commercial real estate relationships that moved into nonperforming status, totaling $9.1 million in the second quarter of 2021 and $7.5 million in the third quarter of 2021, which continue to accrue interest.  Nonperforming assets represented 0.75% of total assets at September 30, 2021, up from 0.67% at June 30, 2021, and 0.60% at December 31, 2020.

Special Mention and Substandard loans and leases totaled $168.5 million at September 30, 2021, reflecting an improvement from $171.3 million at June 30, 2021, and $189.9 million reported at December 31, 2020.

As previously announced, the Company implemented a payment deferral program in 2020 to assist both consumer and business borrowers that may be experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19. As of September 30, 2021, total loans that continued in a deferral status amounted to approximately $12.8 million, representing 0.25% of total loans.  At June 30, 2021 total loans in deferral status totaled $129.4 million, and at December 31, 2020 total loans in deferral status totaled $212.2 million. Included in nonperforming loans and leases and Substandard loans and leases at September 30, 2021, were 2 loans totaling $3.0 million that remained in deferral status.

The Company began accepting applications for PPP loans on April 3, 2020, and had funded 2,998 loans totaling approximately $465.6 million when the initial program ended.  On January 19, 2021, the Company began accepting both first draw and second draw applications for the reopening of the PPP program.  The 2021 PPP program funding closed for new applications on May 12, 2021.  The Company funded 2,142 applications totaling $228.5 million in 2021. 

Out of the total $694.1 million of PPP loans that the Company had funded through October 12, 2021, approximately $552.0 million had been forgiven by the SBA under the terms of the program.  Total net deferred fees on the remaining balance of PPP loans amounted to $6.2 million at September 30, 2021.

CAPITAL POSITION

Capital ratios at September 30, 2021 remained well above the regulatory minimums for well-capitalized institutions. The ratio of Total Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets was 14.21% at September 30, 2021, down from 14.62% reported at June 30, 2021, and 14.39% at December 31, 2020. The ratio of Tier 1 capital to average assets was 8.54% at September 30, 2021, compared to 8.79% at June 30, 2021, and 8.75% at December 31, 2020.

 

During the third quarter of 2021, the Company repurchased 170,775 common shares at an aggregate cost of $13.2 million. These shares were purchased under the Company's previously announced 2020 Stock Repurchase Program.   During the first nine months of 2021, the Company repurchased 272,310 shares at an aggregate cost of $21.2 million.

 

The Company announced today that its Board of Directors has authorized a new stock repurchase program of up to 400,000 shares of the Company's outstanding common stock, par value $0.10 per share, over the next 24 months.  This program replaces the Company's existing 400,000 stock repurchase program announced on January 30, 2020. 

 

The shares may be repurchased from time to time in open market transactions at prevailing market prices, in privately negotiated transactions, or by other means in accordance with federal securities laws. The actual timing, number and value of shares repurchased under the program will be determined by management at its discretion and will depend on a number of factors, including the market price of the Company's stock and general market and economic conditions, and applicable legal requirements.

 

ABOUT TOMPKINS FINANCIAL CORPORATION

Tompkins Financial Corporation is a financial services company serving the Central, Western, and Hudson Valley regions of New York and the Southeastern region of Pennsylvania.  Headquartered in Ithaca, NY, Tompkins Financial is parent to Tompkins Trust Company, Tompkins Bank of Castile, Tompkins Mahopac Bank, Tompkins VIST Bank, and Tompkins Insurance Agencies, Inc., and offers wealth management services through Tompkins Financial Advisors. The Company’s banks have announced plans for a rebranding effort, pursuant to which the Company’s four wholly-owned banking subsidiaries will be combined into one bank, with The Bank of Castile, Mahopac Bank, and VIST Bank merging with and into Tompkins Trust Company.  The combined bank will conduct business under the “Tompkins” brand name, with a legal name of “Tompkins Community Bank.”  For more information on Tompkins Financial, visit www.tompkinsfinancial.com.

 

"Safe Harbor" Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995:

 

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Forward-looking statements may be identified by use of such words as "may", "will", "estimate", "intend", "continue", "believe", "expect", "plan", or "anticipate", and other similar words. Forward-looking statements are made based on management’s expectations and beliefs concerning future events impacting the Company and are subject to certain uncertainties and factors relating to the Company’s operations and economic environment, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the control of the Company, that could cause actual results of the Company to differ materially from those expressed and/or implied by forward-looking statements. The following factors, in addition to those listed as Risk Factors in Item 1A of our Annual Reports on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, are among those that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements: changes in general economic, market and regulatory conditions; the severity and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of COVID-19 (including governments’ responses thereto) on economic and financial markets, potential regulatory actions, and modifications to our operations, products, and services relating thereto; disruptions in our and our customers’ operations and loss of revenue due to pandemics, epidemics, widespread health emergencies, government-imposed travel/business restrictions, or outbreaks of infectious diseases such as the coronavirus, and the associated adverse impact on our financial position, liquidity, and our customers’ abilities to repay their obligations to us or willingness to obtain financial services products from the Company; the development of an interest rate environment that may adversely affect the Company’s interest rate spread, other income or cash flow anticipated from the Company’s operations, investment and/or lending activities; changes in laws and regulations affecting banks, bank holding companies and/or financial holding companies, such as the Dodd-Frank Act, Basel III and the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act; legislative and regulatory changes in response to COVID-19 with which we and our subsidiaries must comply, including the CARES Act and the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, and state and local government mandates; technological developments and changes; the ability to continue to introduce competitive new products and services on a timely, cost-effective basis; governmental and public policy changes, including environmental regulation; reliance on large customers; uncertainties arising from national and global events, including the potential impact of widespread protests, civil unrest, and political uncertainty on the economy and the financial services industry; and financial resources in the amounts, at the times and on the terms required to support the Company’s future businesses. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update its forward-looking statements.

Genesee Lumber acquires Smith Lumber and Hardware Center in Lakeville

By Press Release

Press release:

Genesee Lumber is excited to announce the acquisition of Smith Lumber and Hardware Center at 5833 Big Tree Road in Lakeville, NY. For over 65 years, Smith Lumber and Hardware Center has been serving the community as a family-owned, quality lumber yard and home improvement center.

Going forward, Genesee Lumber will continue to carry premium products, superior hardware, and maintain staff with the expertise to assist both contractor and homeowner. This acquisition will serve to increase delivery and product availability in Lakeville and the surrounding area.

“This is a great opportunity for us to expand our business within the Western New York region. When the opportunity presented itself, we quickly realized it would be a good long-term move to strengthen both companies”, said John Harrower, president, and CEO.“

Genesee Lumber, also a family-owned business, has been serving Western New York for over 90 years. Built on the same family values that have been key to their success, Smith Lumber and Hardware is a welcomed addition to the Genesee Lumber family.

Ferrentino named new president of Mercy Flight

By Press Release

Press release:

Mercy Flight is pleased to announce that Margaret A. Ferrentino has been elected President of Mercy Flight, Inc. Ms. Ferrentino, who has been with the organization since its inception in 1981, will be filling the role that has been held for more than 40 years by its Founding President, Douglas H. Baker. Mr. Baker has been appointed to the honorary position of President Emeritus and will remain involved in an advisory role, assisting with leadership transitions and providing a historical perspective in the decision-making process. According to Baker, “Mercy Flight’s legacy

of compassionate medical care is in the best of hands. The success of this nonprofit has been the result of 40 years of Margie’s hard work and dedication, and I have no doubt that Mercy Flight will continue to be a Beacon of Hope to those in need for many, many more years to come.”

Ms. Ferrentino has dedicated her life to helping others, starting her EMS career working at LaSalle Ambulance Service as an Emergency Medical Technician in 1977. Shortly thereafter she became Western New York’s first female Paramedic and in 1981 one of Mercy Flight’s first Flight Paramedics. In 1986, she was promoted to General Manager of LaSalle Ambulance, overseeing an operation with hundreds of employees and dozens of ambulances.

Despite her humble nature, Ms. Ferrentino’s illustrious EMS career has garnered much due respect and many accolades, including being a member of a LaSalle Ambulance team that received the American Ambulance Association’s first International Community Service Award, Business First Magazine’s 40 Under 40 recognition, and the NYS Veterans of Foreign Wars Paramedic Award. According to Ms. Ferrentino, “The awards and recognition are truly an honor, but at the end of the day what really matters is that our efforts result in all of our patients receiving the high quality and compassionate care that everyone deserves. Sister Sheila Marie Walsh and Doug Baker have always emphasized patient care above all else, and that guiding light hasn’t steered us wrong in over 40 years. I’m blessed to have been a part of this organization ever since it was just a concept. I’m incredibly honored to become its newly-elected President and will remain forever grateful to many who have mentored, supported and worked beside me over the years.”

Filling Ms. Ferrentino’s previous role of Executive Vice President is Mercy Flight’s former Vice President-Finance, Scott P. Wooton, CPA. Wooton’s involvement with the organization began in 2006 when he was an auditor at a local public accounting firm, and Mercy Flight was one of his clients. Joining the nonprofit organization as Staff

Accountant in 2008, Wooton has since contributed positively to its growth, having

overseen the financial aspects of the $30 million-dollar acquisition of four new Bell 429 helicopters, the construction of a $2.5 million-dollar ground ambulance facility in Batavia, NY, and a roughly 350% increase in the company’s overall budget over the last 13 years.

Wooton states, “The EMS industry as a whole is facing several significant challenges, including shortages in its workforce and major shortfalls in the reimbursement necessary to recruit and retain employees from a shrinking talent pool. Our employees in the air, on the ground, and behind the scenes are special people that have proven they can rise to meet all manner of challenges. My job as their Executive Vice President will be to continue to advocate on their behalf in order to give them the tools they need to continue to do that.” Wooton, a 2005 graduate of the University at Buffalo’s School of Management, resides with his wife, Michelle, and their four children in Alden, NY.

Additionally, the Mercy Flight Board of Directors has elected Director of Finance, Joseph

C. Czyrny, to fill the role of the 501(c)(3)’s Corporate Secretary. Mr. Czyrny joined the Mercy Flight team in 2015, and has played a vital role in navigating the ever-changing landscape of compliance and regulation. Czyrny is looking forward to continuing to support the mission of Mercy Flight in his expanded role. “Mercy Flight is not only a great asset to the people of Western New York, but it’s also a great place to work. The team here is second-to-none. We take great care of our patients, and we take great care of each other” says Czyrny. Also a UB School of Management alumnus, Czyrny and his wife, Donette, live in Grand Island, NY with their two daughters.

Mercy Flight’s re-elected Board Chairman, Michael A. Bolas, CPA, Esq. adds, “I’m so proud of what this group has accomplished. In the coming months, we’ll reach 30,000 completed air-ambulance missions since inception, and we’re well over that number in ground ambulance transports. On behalf of our Board, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Mercy Flight team for all they do. Personally, I am honored to be associated with such a skilled, dedicated, and compassionate group of professionals,

and I look forward to continuing to serve the organization alongside our re-elected Vice-Chairperson and Past Patient, Eileen Kelchlin.”

McGowan Insurance Agency opens in City Centre

By Howard B. Owens

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Information and photo submitted by the Chamber of Commerce. 

Local businessman John McGowan, Jr. recently completed the purchase and renovation of a space in Batavia City Centre.

The location was ideal,  McGowan said, because it is central to the city and the people he will be servicing. He was also attracted by the low cost of purchasing and renovating the space.

 

GCEDC board approves assistance for Pembroke mixed-use project

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors approved a final resolution for financial assistance for a mixed-use development which will include six market-rate units in the town of Pembroke at its board meeting on Thursday, October 7, 2021.

The $1.7 million project by J&R Fancher Property Holdings LLC includes the construction a 14,000 sq. ft. two-story building on 2.6 acres at the 67-acre Buffalo East Technology Park. There will be a 7,000 sq. ft. flexible layout for commercial tenants on the first floor and the six 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments on the second floor. The project is located adjacent to Yancey’s Fancy’s facilities on Brickhouse Drive.

J&R Fancher Property Holdings LLC will receive $254,336 of financial assistance that includes sales, mortgage, and property tax abatements. The project is estimated to create a $4-to-$1 return on investment for Genesee County in addition to increased commercial and residential benefits in the town of Pembroke. A public hearing on the proposed agreement was held on October 5, 2021.

“We continue to build a critical mass of infrastructure, including housing at the intersection of Routes 5 and 77 in Pembroke which is an important thoroughfare in Genesee County with easy access to the New York State Thruway,” said GCEDC President and CEO Steve Hyde.  “This growth in turn is generating new jobs, private sector capital investment and revenues for our local government partners.”

Two friends build hobby into serious business as sports cards hit a fever pitch

By Joanne Beck

 

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When Timothy "TJ" Woodward realized that sports cards were becoming more popular, he reached out to friend Doug Sicari, an avid collector over the years. It just so happened that Sicari was thinking of opening a shop and asked if Woodward wanted to join the venture.

“I said absolutely,” Woodward said Thursday at the newly opened Batavia Sports Cards in Batavia. “I’d say 99.9% of our cards are here.”

Remember when kids collected baseball cards, and they even got a bonus piece of bubble gum in a pack? That practice, which began in the 1930s, has grown up, to say the least. Sports cards have had their hot moments, including last year when people were stuck home due to Covid, Woodward said. That drew the off-and-on card collector back to the hobby.

“The attention it was getting; it was all over social media and all over the Internet. I think it was to a boiling point, and when COVID hit, it just erupted,” he said. “It’s a little bit different now than just a hobby.”

Sports cards were introduced in the 1860s, and they have ebbed and flowed throughout time, growing stagnant in the 1990s when originality went out the window and they were mass-produced, Sicari said. Some 20 years ago they took hold again, and the last decade has brought about creative — and increasingly valuable — cards with pieces of memorabilia, he said.

“Over the past five years they’ve gone up dramatically,” Sicari said. “To get distributors, you have to have the brick and mortar store. Location was the most important.”

Batavia Sports Cards had a quiet opening at the 220 East Main St. site in May, and the foot traffic has steadily increased since the owners said. All of the major sports, plus portions of others, are represented, including football, baseball, basketball and hockey, soccer, wrestling, and NASCAR racing. While many adults are scoping out the valuable cards, kids will find something too with Pokémon, base cards, and boxed collections that start at $20.

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Sicari gave Woodward a crash course in the business, his partner said, as there’s a lot to learn. Rookie cards draw the most interest, and cards are numbered in various sequences, such as 1 to 10 versus up to 499 or 2500. Snatching up the first card in a series is a coup for a collector, and also when the number matches the player’s jersey number, such as the card numbered eight matching the jersey number of Russian ice hockey star Alexander Ovechkin. Add his autograph for another notch up the value scale. 

Other details to look out for are the production dates, extras, such as the Babe Ruth card encased with a piece of his game-used bat, and a grade, performed by the biggest grading service companies PSA and Beckett. A PSA rated 10 means “the card is perfect,” Sicari said, versus a PSA 1 being poor. 

Then there are Super and Ultra Rare cards depicting a cool-looking foil and holographic finish on the card name and artwork. These shinier cards are aesthetically classier looking and come with higher values.

Don’t worry if you’re not up to snuff in the sports card industry, because Woodward and Sicari want to help educate people interested in it. More seasoned collectors won’t be disappointed with the selection of “thousands and thousands” of cards, with more being added continuously, the owners said. They have enjoyed talking to customers, many of which want to “trade or sell,” Woodward said. 

“You get to see a lot of neat stuff walk in,” he said. "I told Doug I'd never see a Jordan ... and we had three in here."

No, you won't find those coveted Michael Jordan cards at their shop just yet; the sellers didn't end up parting with their merchandise. The owners have already had out-of-town patrons, from Williamsport and Erie, Pennsylvania, to Chicago and Texas, find the shop online while visiting this area. Despite the enormous inventory, the owners purposely mapped out the room to be user-friendly, they said. 

“We try to keep something for everybody,” Sicari said. “The idea for the shop was to keep it condensed and easy to look at everything.”

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Woodward noted that this is the only sports card business in Genesee County, and the owners have no intention of going small with the operation. In fact, as they tweak the shop to expand its offerings (a website that’s in progress and more permanent hours later this month), they want to see the business boom. It has been a juggling act for Woodward, who owns and operates three funeral homes, and Sicari, who works in construction, to actually man the shop for substantial hours. They are looking to hire a full-time person, but it’s got to be “the right person,” Sicari said.

“You have to have someone who knows it like the back of your hand,” he said. 

Anyone interested in applying for the position or in buying, browsing, or trading sports cards can call (585) 483-3090, check out https://www.facebook.com/bataviasportscards or visit 220 East Main St., Batavia 4-8 p.m. Thursdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays, or noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. 

Top photo TJ Woodward and Doug Sicari have turned the hobby of collecting sports cards into a business at their new shop Batavia Sports Cards.

Photos by Philip Casper

 

Batavia resident earns executive position at Freed Maxick

By Press Release

Press release:

Freed Maxick is proud to name Jonathan Tretter as a new Director in the Firm’s Enterprise Advisory Services Practice. Jonathan is one of five new Director promotions this year.

Jonathan is a graduate of Canisius College, and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants.

His focus is on taxation and planning for C corporations, S corporations, Partnerships and LLCs, and high-net worth individuals. He also has extensive knowledge of federal and state tax credits and incentives, methods of accounting, UNICAP 263A, estate and business succession planning, along with tangible property and cost recovery. Additionally, Jonathan has been a leader in the Firm’s response to federal legislation surrounding the CARES Act, including the Paycheck Protection Program and the Employee Retention Credit.

“I am excited and honored to be named a Director at Freed Maxick. I am also extremely humbled to be part of a firm that recognizes the hard work and dedication displayed by their employees, and hope this highlights the opportunity available to each and every member of our Freed Maxick family,” says Jonathan.

Jonathan is also devoted to employee enrichment and is heavily involved in his community. He is currently the Treasurer of the Kiwanis Club of Batavia, a campaign cabinet member of the United Memorial Medical Center, a member of the Business & Accounting Advisory Committee at Genesee Community College, an alumnus of Leadership Genesee, and a committee member of the Batavia Development Corporation.

“I am proud to welcome this next generation of leaders to the Director group,” states Henry Koziol, CPA, Managing Director and Chairman of the Board. ”I look forward to watching Jonathan excel in this new position.”

New owner has designs for Frontier Kitchens in Batavia

By Joanne Beck

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Signs and kitchen cabinets may not seem to have much in common, but for one Batavia business owner, they are a perfect complement to each other.

Dan Ewing, who purchased Baker’s Frontier Kitchens in April of this year, has found a niche for his engineering degree that involves both. The Macedon resident owns a sign shop in East Rochester and has moved westward with ownership of the kitchen business at 8392 Lewiston Rd., Batavia.

“I liked the design aspect of engineering,” he said this week during an interview with the Batavian. “A friend of mine introduced me to Tim Baker, and I thought it was a good fit. (Baker and his wife) are just wonderful people. It’s very, very important to do business with people that have your same value system.”

That value system includes “high-quality cabinets at a very good price,” and taking care of the customer, he said. Whether he is designing a sign — with all of the specifications involved of font, color, size — or crafting a kitchen layout of cabinets, countertops, and perhaps even a matching vanity style for the bathroom — Ewing has found his calling.

He appreciates this area’s “buy local” attitude, and a steady supply of Candlelight Cabinetry products to meet that request. Manufactured in Lockport, Candlelight kitchen cabinets are featured in the showroom’s 20 kitchen displays with finishes of white, cherry, and rustic hickory. His staff can pick up and deliver cabinets, which saves on freight costs, and Frontier Kitchens has a good relationship with the manufacturer, Ewing said. Those are important benefits of the “buy local” presence here in Batavia, he said.

While the Baker’s part of the business name will go away, Ewing committed to retaining Frontier Kitchens and what the name means for this community. There will be some changes coming in the next few months, he said, including a new logo and signage along with a spruced-up exterior, a new phone system, computers, and an overhaul of the internal business system that “lets us serve the customers,” he said.

He has been quite pleased with a steady stream of orders, he said, and added additional staff positions of a delivery person and office manager. A revamped showroom and a new website and kitchen-in-progress are being designed. Frontier is even being prepped for its debut in TV commercials as part of a new marketing and advertising strategy.

“Everything’s in process right now,” Ewing said. “I took what Tim built … I’m very sensitive to taking care of customers while accelerating and enhancing the business. It’s been phenomenal; there are a lot of kitchens in process.”

He said that it’s about a 50/50 split between creating kitchens for new homeowners and renovating older ones, and all with a promise of “very reasonable pricing on a full custom kitchen.” Unlike other designers that charge for every single detail, Ewing provides free consultations, quotes, and printouts of design ideas, he said. A design project can include countertops, sinks and cabinets, and installation by local contractors.

When he’s not drafting a kitchen blueprint, Ewing is a “hardcore golfer” and enjoys fishing and boating in warmer weather, he said, and switches to hunting when the temperatures get cooler. He and his wife Safiye have two boys, Connor and Adam.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and evenings and weekends by appointment. For more information, go to bakersfrontierkitchens.com or call 585-343-0760.

Batavia entrepreneur likes the pressure of building business

By Joanne Beck

Ryan Pyatt is building his empire one business at a time.

The Batavia native and resident just purchased his third company, and he sees no end in sight with his life motto firmly in place.

“Leave a legacy. Life is what you make it,” he said during an interview Thursday. “Everybody has the opportunity to accomplish (their goals) if they’re motivated and disciplined. I really want this thing to blow up.”

This “thing” happens to be WNY Pressure Wash, in its fourth year and 800 customers strong. Pyatt bought out Batavia Exterior and Roof Clean and rolled it and a few hundred base customers into WNY Pressure Wash, at 8145 East Main St. He plans to reach out to those customers and notify them of the change in ownership. The 10-year-old company was competition for him, so buying it “was a big move for us,” Pyatt said.

“We definitely want to continue to grow,” the 28-year-old entrepreneur said. “Our goal is to be the largest exterior pressure washing company in this area. Growth is one of the major things … I just really want to be the premiere pressure washing company.”

Not exactly a newcomer to the pressure washing field, Pyatt worked for Sparkle Wash since he was 17, and then purchased the company four years ago. For three of those years, he went with the name RNP Services using his own initials. But the evolving student of marketing and branding decided it was time to name it what it was: a pressure washing company. That, and more extensive advertising on Facebook, Angie’s List, and other home services websites, gave him the boost he was looking for, he said.

Pyatt, a 2011 Batavia High School graduate, admits that his time spent in obtaining an associate’s degree in business at Southern New Hampshire University didn’t give him as much foundation as did practical, hands-on experience.

“People ask me what my hobby is, and I say ‘I like to acquire businesses,’” he said, adding that it’s not even so much about the money. “How can I take a failing business and continue to grow it.”

He and fiancée Natalie Cervone bought Great Kutz, in Valu Plaza, in November 2020. Cervone runs the salon while Pyatt concentrates on his other ventures. It hasn’t always been a smooth ride, he said, as there is a learning curve with business ownership.

In other words, there was “a lot of trial and error,” he said.

“We made mistakes, that’s inevitable,” he said. “Finding out why those mistakes happen, and if you can learn and grow from them, that’s the name of the game.”

It was while providing services to home and commercial property owners that prompted Pyatt to pursue other career avenues. During those services, he’d hear people say that they wanted to sell their places but didn’t have a real estate agent. So Pyatt became an agent at Keller Williams in Batavia. Pressure washing and property sales seemed a natural fit to him.

“I’m getting your property ready, so I might as well finish it for you,” he said.

WNY Pressure Wash offers an array of services, from washing building exteriors, sidewalks, and driveways to back decks, roofs, garden pavers, and gutters. There are soft washes for roofs and other more delicate materials, and pressure washes that spit out 5-1/2 gallons per minute. He couldn’t come up with a most difficult job to date but named the oddest request so far: tombstones.

Pyatt has become a bit of a gunk connoisseur — blogging on the site about the benefits of pressure washing and potential damage that can result from leaving roof algae and artillery fungus alone. Artillery fungus comes out as tiny black dots near the bottom of siding; it’s a wood-decaying fungus that, like algae, can cause long-term damage to your home’s exterior, his blog states.

As he has become more versed in the entrepreneurial world, Pyatt came across a belief that there are three levels a business owner should reach for 30 feet is completely hands-on, when Pyatt was actually out there pressure washing people’s homes; 300 feet is about being in the office maintaining the day-to-day needs; and 3,000 feet is overseeing the business as a whole, taking care of the financial end of matters and customer acquisition. He alternates between 300 and 3,000 feet, he said, as profits have been continuously reinvested for the business with eight staff, four vans, two trailers, seven washing units, a building with a full bay for repairs, two offices, and an employee break room.

The keys to success are providing a quality job, good customer service, and communication, he said.

“That’s what we pride ourselves on -- quality,” he said.

He is offering 10 percent off gutter and roof cleaning services for new customers, valid until Oct. 31. For more information, go to wnypressurewash.com or call 585-888-WASH (9274).

Photo by James Burns. Ryan Pyatt checks out a pressure washer at his site on East Main Street, Batavia.

GCEDC approves incentives for three projects, including Liberty Pumps

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors approved a final resolution for incentives supporting Liberty Pumps for a $13.7 million expansion at the company’s operations in the Town of Bergen the board’s September 9, 2021 board meeting.

Liberty Pumps will invest approximately $13.7 million to build a 107,138 sq. ft. materials facility in the Apple Tree Acres business park. The proposed facility is anticipated to contribute to the continuing growth of the company and will create 30 new full-time jobs with an average salary of $52,000 annually plus benefits. It is estimated that the project will generate $29 of investment into the local economy for every $1 of approved incentives. The project will receive sales and property tax exemptions of approximately $1.5 million.    

The GCEDC Board of Directors also accepted an initial application for a $4.5 million project proposed by Valiant Real Estate USA, Inc. (New York Bus Company). The company plans to build a new 20,000 square-foot facility at the corner of Saile Drive and Call Parkway in the Town of Batavia.

The project would create 24 full-time employee positions with an average salary range of $30,000 - $75,000 annually plus benefits. The project is requesting approximately $430,000 in sales, mortgage, and property tax exemptions. The project is estimated to generate $50 into the Genesee County economy for every $1 of requested incentives.

Finally, the Board accepted an initial application for incentives from J&R Fancher Property Holdings LLC.  The company is proposing a $1.7 million capital investment for a 14,000 square foot building located at Buffalo East Technology Park in Pembroke, NY.

J&R Fancher Property Holdings LLC plans to build six market-rate one-and two-bedroom apartments along with a 7,000 square foot commercial space.. The project is requesting approximately $254,000 in sales, mortgage and property tax exemptions.

As both projects are requesting incentives of over $100,000, public hearings will be scheduled prior to final consideration of incentives.

GCEDC board to consider three projects at meeting on Thursday

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors will consider resolutions advancing three projects with a combined capital investment of approximately $19.9 million at its board meeting on Thursday, September 9, 2021.

The GCEDC Board will consider a final application for incentives from Liberty Pumps for its proposed $13.7 million expansion at its operations in the town of Bergen at the Apple Tree Acres industrial park. The company plans on constructing a 107,138 sq ft. materials center, creating 30 new jobs with an average salary of $52,000 annually plus benefits.

Liberty Pumps is seeking property and sales tax exemptions of approximately $1.5 million.  It is estimated the expansion project would generate $29 of private investment into the local economy for every $1 of public investment. A public hearing regarding the project incentives was conducted on August 26, 2021.    

The Board also will consider accepting an initial application from Valiant Real Estate USA, Inc. (New York Bus Sales.)  Valiant is proposing a $4.5 million capital investment to construct a 20,000 sq. ft. facility on Saile Drive in the town of Batavia. The project would create 24 new jobs with an average salary ranging from $30,000 – $75,000 annually plus benefits.

Valiant Real Estate USA, Inc. is seeking sales, mortgage, and property tax exemptions of approximately $430,120. The project is estimated to generate $50 of investment into the local economy for every $1 of public investment.

Finally, the Board will consider accepting an initial application from J & R Fancher Property Holdings LLC which is proposing to construct a two-story mixed-use building on 2.6 acres at Buffalo East Tech Park in the town of Pembroke. This is the first of three phases of development that Fancher is proposing at the tech park.

The $1.7 million investment would include six market-rate 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom apartments on the second floor and a first floor comprised of a 7,000 sq. ft. vanilla box interior intended to attract commercial tenants. The total planned square footage of the facility is 14,000 sq. ft.

J & R Fancher Property Holdings LLC is requesting sales, mortgage, and property tax exemptions totaling $254,336. and is estimated to produce $4 of investment into the local economy for every $1 of incentives.

If the initial applications for Valiant Real Estate USA, Inc. and J&R Fancher Property Holdings LLC are accepted, public hearings on the proposed project incentives agreements will be held prior to consideration of the final resolution.

The Sep. 9 GCEDC Board meeting will take place at 4 p.m. at 99 Med-Tech Drive, Suite 107.  The meeting also will be available online at www.gcedc.com.

On Tap: Pizza 151 expands dining room, adds craft beer to menu

By Joanne Beck

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Doubling the space, adding a self-serve beer wall, and providing international entertainment might just put Pizza 151 on the map for craft beer destinations, owner Eric LeVan says.

“It’s a completely different look and feel; we’re very competitive for craft beers,” LeVan said during an interview Tuesday. “I think football season is going to bring in quite a bit. The Tap Room at 151 has 14 taps of all craft beer, and we’ll have bottles of domestic beer as well.”

Not to leave the cider lovers out, the Batavia Tops Plaza restaurant will have one cider available and he is considering some craft seltzers. Though he’s not a big drinker, LeVan has sampled some product and said the cider is pretty good.

“It’s literally like drinking an apple soda.”

LeVan had a partnership when the site was Mark’s Pizzeria in 2012. He later broke out on his own and renamed the place Pizza 151 a day after the Super Bowl in 2019. The entrepreneur owns another branch in North Chili and is co-owner of Bushido Martial Arts in Batavia.

LeVan more recently opted to lease 3,000 more square feet in the adjacent former Family Video site. It has made the space “nice and open” with a more expansive dining area that went from accommodating 20 to at least 100 people, he said.

There are seven televisions, including one with an 85-inch screen, a dine-in menu with about five or six yummy appetizers coming this fall (think soft chewy Bavarian pretzels), and a wireless dartboard system. Not your grandfather’s dartboard game, this one has two cameras that show the player and the board to prevent cheating. Patrons can try their luck with a local or someone across the globe, LeVan said.

“You can see anyone from the world,“ he said, adding that he just played such a game. “He was from Belgium.”

Now for the Tap Room at 151. Set up with an IPourIt draft technology system, diners select from 14 craft beers, which will be on a changing rotational basis per season. The current summer ale will soon be replaced with an Oktoberfest brew. According to IPourIt’s website, Pizza 151 is only one of three places in New York with the same self-serve system and the only one in this region. 

Customers scan their driver’s license to ensure proof of age, get a bracelet, then scan that to make a selection. Contrary to other establishments LeVan has experienced, “nobody’s pushing you out the door,” he said. 

“You’ll have the freedom of ordering how much you want,” he said. “And you can try two ounces of beer to get the taste. (The customer) pours their own beer.”

It’s the type of business for craft beer enthusiasts, he said, versus those who just want to drink. Quality versus quantity type of set-up. That’s not to say you can’t purchase quantity.

“We can make a crowler of any beer on tap,” he said. “(Patrons) can see the whole process. We’ll have some pre-canned of our bestsellers.”

He’s working on offering some tastings to include other area breweries, such as Eli Fish, Rohrbach Brewing Company, and Three Heads Brewing. A beer wall craft beer from Eli Fish, in downtown Batavia, would be a perfect addition, he said.

Two other embellishments are just as enticing, LeVan said. Instead of buying a 20-ounce pop, he now has a Pepsi fountain machine. And all of that drinking may steer people into two nice new bathrooms near the dining area. The rooms each have a TV so that nobody has to miss the action of a game. Recycled kegs for urinals and beer tap handles at the sink are bound to be a topic of conversation.

LeVan expects to hire more people as the pizza shop/taproom gets busier. He already hired a former employee who has beer lessons and expertise under his belt to serve as taproom manager. It has all come together in a fitting environment, LeVan said.

“This is a nichey little area for pizza and beer,” he said.

Pizza 151 is 8351 Lewiston Rd. to the left of the Tops gas station. It is open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Check it out at pizza151.com or call (585) 344-2400.

Photos by Howard Owens

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Steve Barnett of Steve's Styles is retiring; manager to become shop's new owner

By Howard B. Owens

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Steve Barnett, owner of Steve's Styles in Eastown Plaza, Batavia, has announced his retirement after 37 years in the salon business.  

Tomorrow, Karen Tauscher, a stylist, and manager of the shop, takes over as owner.

She's been with Steve's Styles for 30 years.

"Batavia and the surrounding communities have always been very supportive of our Salon since we opened our doors Sept. 1, 1984 -- first as Fantastic Sam’s then May 24, 2004, as Steve’s Styles, Barnett said. "When we opened our doors I was a young 28 years old and today as I retire a young 65."

He said Tauscher is a talented and experienced leader who will oversee a staff of 13 stylists with many years of experience among them.

"I want to thank the staff for all their hard work and friendship thru many years," Barnett said. "In addition, I am very grateful to all our guests who throughout the years kept Steve’s Styles a caring and community-based salon."

Submitted photo.

Chapin announces new expansion in Kentucky

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Chapin International, Inc. announces its continuing growth with another expansion in Kentucky. Following the successful startup of its Mount Vernon facility, due to business volume, there became an immediate need to further expand operations in order to meet continued demand for sprayers. The State of Kentucky once again sprang into action to assist Chapin in its need for space and dedicated employees. This culminated in the purchase of 1857 S. Danville Bypass, adding an additional 500,000 square feet of manufacturing and warehousing space. With this, Chapin now has more than 1.75 million square feet of production facility space in New York, Ohio, Michigan, and Kentucky combined. It will grow to have over 600 US-based employees and will be twice the size of any US-based sprayer producer and is positioned to compete with off-shore sprayer manufacturers well into the 2030s.

“As Covid continues to be an issue in the United States and the world, the increased demand for sprayers continues and the need to fight the spread is even more imperative. At the same time, people have had more opportunities to be at home and are enjoying gardening and improvement projects more than ever before. At the start of the pandemic, Chapin was at planned capacity. That was quickly overwhelmed by demand. With our recent expansion into Kentucky, we will now be able to produce over 12 million yearly sprayers in the United States as long as raw materials and labor is available,” said Jim Campbell, President.

“While adding capacity, Chapin has also expanded its capabilities and automation. Some of the new molders are larger and will allow us to produce sprayers up to 100 gallons. Chapin will expand the breadth of product for the homeowner, but also light agricultural use,” said Doug Platt, Plant Manager for Mount Vernon and the new Danville location. “The addition of five blow molding machines brings that facility up to twelve. The molders range in size from the smallest being a five-pound triple to the largest being a dual 40-pound molder. Most of those machines had been purchased from other companies. Previously tooled for automotive production, they will be rebuilt and put right into service making sprayers.” 

“This new capacity will put Chapin’s capacity on par with the largest manufactures in Europe, South America, and Asia. Chapin has become the predominant US Sprayer manufacturer. We continue to lower the cost of products through mass production making us the sure thing in the North American market. Whatever category Chapin enters, the consumer wins, with higher quality and lower costs,” said Bill Campbell, Vice President of Business Development.

“When we first went to Kentucky and met with the Judge (Holbrook) and Jeff Van Hook we told them we prefer to plan conservatively and move forward as fast as possible, the 10-year employment goal for 100 new jobs in the first 5 years was met in less than 12 months from the initial meeting,” said Jim Campbell.

The incentive program approved in Kentucky today provides additional tax abatements based on a new 300-person employment goal for the combined projects. Over the next 10 years, Chapin’s investment in Kentucky will surpass $16 million dollars. In addition to the tax abatement the city of Danville, Kentucky has been a great resource.

“The people of Rockcastle and Boyle Counties are ready to work!” Campbell attributes this to the prudent state economic policies and the exceptional work ethic of the Kentucky people. This is why business is thriving in Kentucky and continues to rank highly, nationally. “We are excited to be part of the continued growth of business in Kentucky”.

Chapin International is based in Batavia, New York.  The company is a leader in the design, manufacturing and marketing of industry-leading high-quality compressed air sprayers used in home, garden, and commercial applications. Chapin also makes a full line of spreaders, irrigation products, and accessories. Chapin was established in 1884.  The company also conducts business via Chapin Custom Molding in Elyria, Ohio, and three additional Chapin International operations in Coopersville, Michigan, Clarence, New York, and Mount Vernon, Kentucky. 

Oak Orchard Health in Batavia receives USDA award for breastfeeding program

By Press Release

Press release:

In support of Breastfeeding Month, today the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) held a virtual ceremony for its WIC Breastfeeding Award of Excellence winners in the Northeast Region, including seven in New York.

“USDA established the award program to recognize local WIC agencies that have provided exemplary breastfeeding promotion and support to WIC moms,” said Lizbeth Silbermann, Northeast Regional Administrator for USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service. "The intent is to provide models to help other WIC clinics strengthen their breastfeeding programs to increase breastfeeding initiation and duration rates nationwide.” 

A major goal of the WIC Program is to improve the health of babies and moms through breastfeeding; WIC serves about half of all babies born in the country and is uniquely positioned to help moms successfully breastfeed.

In New York the following WIC clinics received Gold awards: 

  • Catholic Charities WIC of Buffalo, Buffalo
  • Oak Orchard Health WIC, Batavia
  • Ryan Health WIC Program, NYC
  • Bedford Stuyvesant Family Health Center, Brooklyn
  • Morris Heights Health Center WIC, Bronx
  • SBH Health System, Bronx
  • Northwell Health Staten Island University Hospital, Staten Island

“Peer counselors have a unique ability to relate to participants and play a key role in providing support beyond the office when parents need it most, especially throughout the pandemic,” said Corie Nadzan, WIC Director for New York State. “These awards highlight the dedicated efforts of WIC staff to empower families to meet their breastfeeding goals beginning prenatally, through delivery and beyond. Having worked in a local agency myself, I know this is no easy feat, and I am incredibly proud of these agencies for their outstanding services.”

The award is given at three levels of performance that build on one another: Gold, Premiere, and Elite. 

One hundred and one awards were handed out across the country throughout the month of August, including 16 awards presented today to clinics in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York and Vermont.

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children - better known as WIC - serves to safeguard the health of low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk by providing nutritious foods to supplement diets, information on healthy eating including breastfeeding promotion and support, and referrals to health care. More information about WIC can be found at www.fns.usda.gov/WIC.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) leverages its 15 nutrition assistance programs to ensure that children, low-income individuals, and families have opportunities for a better future through equitable access to safe, healthy, and nutritious food while building a more resilient food system. Under the leadership of Secretary Tom Vilsack, FNS is fighting to end food and nutrition insecurity for all through programs such as SNAP, school meals, and WIC. FNS also provides science-based nutrition recommendations through the co-development of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. To learn more, visitwww.fns.usda.gov. 

Tompkins named one of nation's Top 100 insurance agencies

By Press Release

Press release:

Tompkins Insurance Agencies has been named among the Top 100 largest independent property/casualty agency in the nation by Insurance Journal.This is Tompkins Insurance Agencies’ seventh consecutive appearance on Insurance Journal’s top 100 list, with a 2021 ranking of 87thlargest.

Agencies included on Insurance Journal’s Top 100 list are ranked by total property/casualty agency revenue for 2020 and comprises only those agencies whose business is primarily retail, not wholesale.  This year’s report was published in the August 5 issue.

Tompkins Insurance operates 18 offices in western New York, six offices in central New York, and seven offices in southeastern Pennsylvania. A part of Tompkins Financial Corporation, (trading as TMP on the NYSE - MKT), the agency is affiliated with Tompkins Bank of Castile, Tompkins Trust Company, Tompkins VIST Bank and Tompkins Financial Advisors. It is an independent insurance agency offering personal and business insurance and employee benefits services through more than 50 different companies.

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