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Photos: LoVeSeXy pays tribute to the musical artistry of Prince at Batavia Downs

By Howard B. Owens
lovesexy at Batavia Downs prince tribute

LoVeSexy, a Boston-based band that pays tribute to the music of Prince, played to a packed house in Park Place at Batavia Downs on Saturday night.

The band members:

  • Giovanni Morant, Lead Vocals, Guitar, Keys & Trumpet
  • Anthony C. Grant, Sax, Keyboards, Flute, Vocals & Percussion
  • Jodee Frawlee,  Lead Guitar & Vocals
  • Brian Eggleston, Keyboards & Vocals
  • Jeffrey Gilman, Bass & Vocals
  • Chris Botelho, Drums & Samples

Previously: LoVeSeXy pays tribute to the music and artistry of Prince on March 9 at Batavia Downs

Photos by Howard Owens

lovesexy at Batavia Downs prince tribute
lovesexy at Batavia Downs prince tribute
lovesexy at Batavia Downs prince tribute
lovesexy at Batavia Downs prince tribute
lovesexy at Batavia Downs prince tribute
lovesexy at Batavia Downs prince tribute
lovesexy at Batavia Downs prince tribute
lovesexy at Batavia Downs prince tribute
lovesexy at Batavia Downs prince tribute

Photos: Easter Bunny at Oliver's

By Howard B. Owens
easter bunny olivers
The Easter Bunny photobombs Paisley Dieter, 18 months, and Emmaline Dieter, 5, while Ashley Russo gets a shot at Oliver's Candies on Saturday. Paisley was a little unsure about this Easter Bunny thing.
Photo by Howard Owens.
easter bunny olivers
Paisley Dieter and Emmaline Dieter.
Photo by Howard Owens.
easter bunny olivers
Mayle Fagan and Autumn Fagan, both 9, with the Easter Bunny and Kim Fagan.
Photo by Howard Owens.
easter bunny olivers
Photo by Howard Owens.

Batavia man charged with manslaughter in death of Sheriff's Office sergeant during confrontation at Batavia Downs

By Howard B. Owens
michael j. elmore
Michael J. Elmore

A 33-year-old Batavia man with multiple prior arrests is accused of intending to cause serious physical injury to a law enforcement officer and that his attack on the officer resulted in the death of the officer.

At 12:45 a.m. on Sunday, Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello, 54, a 32-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office, died after a struggle with the suspect inside Batavia Downs.

Michael J. Elmore is charged with aggravated manslaughter in the first degree, a Class B felony, aggravated assault upon a police officer, a Class B felony, and burglary in the second degree.

Elmore is accused of leaving the casino and returning after being told not to return, and that he returned with the intent to commit a crime in the casino. He then allegedly attacked Sanfrantello with the intent to cause a serious injury to him.

According to an earlier press release, Sanfratello was working a special detail early Sunday morning at Batavia Downs when he and security officers received a report of a disturbance at 34 Rush. 

Lyndsey Jean Wilcox
Lyndsey Jean Wilcox

Sanfratello and the security officers encountered  Lyndsey Jean Wilcox, 39, of Batavia, and she was ordered to leave the premises. While being escorted out, Wilcox allegedly became combative with Sanfratello.

Sanfratello and the security officers were able to subdue her and place her in custody.

It was then that Elmore allegedly attacked Sanfratello. Security officers and civilians reportedly attempted to assist Sanfratello. Sanfratello attempted to use his taser to subdue Elmore, but Elmore reportedly kept fighting. During the struggle, Sanfratello became unresponsive, and CPR was attempted.

Wilcox is charged with burglary in the second degree, a Class C felony and attempted assault in the second degree, a Class E felony. 

She is accused of remaining inside Batavia Downs after being told to leave and did so with the intent to commit a crime inside the casino.

Both were arraigned on Sunday evening. Elmore is being held on $100,000 bail, $200,000 bond, and $500,000 partially secured bond. Wilcox is being held on $50,000 bail, $100,000 bond, or $200,000 partially secured bond.

Both are scheduled to appear again in Town of Batavia Court on March 12.

The Batavia Police Department is handling the investigation.

"We would like to thank all those who came forward with information to assist the investigation and those who assisted at the scene," said Chief Shawn Heubusch. "We ask that you keep the family and friends of Sgt. Sanfratello in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time."

Sanfratello began his law enforcement career as a dispatcher on Feb. 29, 1992. He was appointed deputy in 1996 and promoted to sergeant in 2007.  

Elmore has a lengthy arrest recording. In 2009, he was accused of shooting a teen with a BB gun at the former skate park in Batavia. In 2012, he was charged with disorderly conduct following a fight on State Street. He was charged with a burglary at Sherwin-Williams in 2013. In 2015, he was accused of sending threatening texts to another person. He also has a prior history of tangling with law enforcement. He was charged with obstructing governmental administration during an incident in 2022 at the former Days Inn. In 2022, he was also accused of slashing tires on vehicles.

In an interview with The Batavian, Henry Wojtaszek, CEO of Western Regional OTB, said that Batavia Downs began contracting with the Sheriff's Office four or five months ago to provide a security detail to the casino on Friday and Saturday nights.  He said the arrangement is similar to what Batavia Downs does with Batavia PD and the Sheriff's Office during the summer concert series and that the agencies are compensated for the officers' time.  

In a written statement released to all media, Wojtaszek said, "The Batavia Downs Family is extremely saddened by the loss of Sergeant Sanfratello and we send our very deepest condolences to his family.   We rarely have incidents at our facility in large part due to the incredible efforts of people like Sergeant Sanfratello.  While words cannot express our sorrow, our thoughts and prayers are with the SanFratello family and his extended first responder family."

Previously: Sheriff's Office sergeant dies in the line of duty while trying to make arrest at Batavia Downs

Holland Land Office Museum’s Garth Swanson scholarship open for applications

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce its Garth Swanson Memorial Scholarship for 2024. This scholarship was created in honor of Garth Swanson, who was the Stafford Town Historian, a History professor at Genesee Community College, and a former board member and officer of the museum.

This $500 scholarship is open to any graduating senior in Genesee County planning on attending Genesee Community College, or current student attending Genesee Community College, and has expressed interest in history, or plans on working in the history field in the future.

Completed applications should be mailed or emailed no later than May 1. They can be emailed to Ryan Duffy at duffyhollandlandoffice@gmail.com. Or Mailed to Ryan Duffy, Executive Director, Holland Land Office Museum, 131 W. Main St., Batavia. 

The application is available on both the museum’s website and Facebook page. You can also contact the museum for the application or further information.

Go Health reminds public about checking measles vaccination status

By Press Release

Press Release:

With traveling increasing for Spring Break, the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are encouraging residents to check their measles vaccination status. 

If you are not up-to-date on the measles vaccine, contact your healthcare provider and get vaccinated. Cases of measles are increasing worldwide and in the United States.

Measles is typically brought to the United States by unvaccinated people who contract the virus by traveling to other countries. However, measles outbreaks are occurring more regularly in the United States. 

In 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported measles cases in 16 states including Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York City, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington. 

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases and is easily spread through the air when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes. The virus can stay in the air and on surfaces for many hours, even after the infected person has left the area. 

Infected people can spread measles to others from 4 days before through 4 days after the rash appears.

Measles symptoms typically include: 

  • High fever (may spike to more than 104°)
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes
  • Rash (3-5 days after symptoms begin)

“Getting the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine series is the best way to prevent measles,” stated Brenden Bedard, Director of Community Health Services for GO Health. “As many families are planning to travel in the upcoming weeks, it is important to know your vaccination status. The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect you and your family from measles.”

GO Health advises residents to check their vaccination status with their healthcare provider. Children, adolescents, and adults should have two doses of the MMR vaccine, at least 28 days apart. Unvaccinated individuals should contact their healthcare provider to see if the measles vaccine is right for them. 

If you haven’t completed the MMR vaccine series and are traveling soon, there is still time to receive a vaccination to protect yourself and your loved ones against the virus. 

One dose of the MMR vaccine is about 93% effective and two doses are about 97% effective at preventing measles.

GO Health offers the vaccine to individuals who are underinsured and uninsured and you can call your respective health department to schedule an appointment. For more information on measles, visit the CDC.

For more information on GO Health programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or call your health department at: 

  • Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555
  • Orleans County: 585-589-3278

Follow GO Health on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at GOHealthNY.

Tenney responds to President Biden's State of the Union address

By Press Release

Press Release:

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) issued the following statement in response to President Biden's State of the Union Address:

"Since Joe Biden took office, inflation has skyrocketed, the border is a dangerous catastrophe, energy costs continue to rise, there is chaos around the world, and our greatest ally in the Middle East has been brutally attacked. Yet, President Biden dared to declare the State of the Union as strong. Rather than lay out a clear plan to restore our economy, strengthen our national security, tackle the border crisis, and keep our families safe, Biden barked out lies and harsh partisan rhetoric as if he were speaking at a campaign rally. He refused to provide solutions to the myriad of problems plaguing communities across NY-24." 

"Tonight, President Biden's demeanor and hyper-partisanship created a divisive and hostile environment in the House Chamber that was unbecoming of the President/Commander in Chief of our armed forces and insensitive to the American people who are suffering under his disastrous policies."

Sheriff's Office sergeant dies in the line of duty while trying to make arrest at Batavia Downs

By Howard B. Owens
sgt. sanfratello
Social media photo of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello

During an altercation with a criminal suspect at Batavia Downs shortly before 1 a.m. on Sunday, a Sheriff's Office sergeant became unresponsive and, despite life-saving attempts by Batavia Downs security staff, was later pronounced dead by the Genesee County Coroner. 

Thomas A. Sanfratello, 54, was a 32-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office.  He was working a special assignment detail at the Batavia Downs while on duty. 

The investigation has been transferred to the Batavia Police Department, which issued a statement about the case Sunday afternoon.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family members of Sergeant Sanfratello and all the members of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office at this extremely difficult time,” said Batavia Police Department Chief Shawn Heubusch. 

The Sheriff's Office also released a statement expressing its deep regret and sorrow at Sanfratello's passing.

michael j. elmore
Michael J. Elmore
2013 File Photo/Booking Photo

The statement also stated, "Sergeant Sanfratello’s family would like to extend their sincere appreciation for all the overwhelming support they have received from friends and fellow first responders."

According to Heubusch, Sheriff's Sergeant Sanfratello and casino security were notified about an altercation inside the facility.

Heubusch said that Sanfratello and security were notified about 12:45 a.m. of a possible fight inside the casino. After an initial verbal confrontation inside Rush 34, Sanfratello and security staff began escorting two patrons from the facility.

The patrons are identified as Michael J. Elmore, 33, and Lyndsey Jean Wilcox, 39.

As they were escorted, Wilcox is accused of becoming physically combative with Sanfratello.  With the assistance of security officers, Wilcox was restrained and placed under arrest.  

At that point, Elmore allegedly interfered with her arrest and attacked Sanfratello. 

Security officers and civilians attempted to assist Sanfratello. A fight ensued. Sanfratello attempted to use his taser to subdue Elmore but Elmore reportedly kept fighting.

During the fight, Sanfratello became unresponsive. People on scene began CPR. 

The life-saving attempts were unsuccessful.

Heubusch said no further details are being released at this time.

Charges are expected against Elmore, according to Heuubusch.  He did not elaborate.

Sanfratello began his law enforcement career as a dispatcher on Feb. 29, 1992. He was appointed deputy in 1996 and promoted to sergeant in 2007.  

Gilmart Funeral Home and Cremation Company in Batavia is handling funeral arrangements. More information about funeral plans will be released later.

Elmore has a lengthy arrest recording. In 2009, he was accused of shooting a teen with a BB gun at the former skate park in Batavia. In 2012, he was charged with disorderly conduct following a fight on State Street. He was charged with a burglary at Sherwin-Williams in 2013. In 2015, he was accused of sending threatening texts to another person. He also has a prior history of tangling with law enforcement. He was charged with obstructing governmental administration during an incident in 2022 at the former Days Inn. In 2022, he was also accused of slashing tires on vehicles.

He served two years in state prison on the attempted burglary charge. His parole ended in 2021.

UPDATE: Henry Wojtaszek, CEO of Western Regional OTB, released the following statement:

The Batavia Downs Family is extremely saddened by the loss of Sergeant Sanfratello and we send our very deepest condolences to his family.   We rarely have incidents at our facility in large part due to the incredible efforts of people like Sergeant SanFratello.  

While words cannot express our sorrow, our thoughts and prayers are with the SanFratello family and his extended first responder family.

The safety of our guests and our dedicated staff is our highest priority, and we will continue to work with our partners in law enforcement throughout their investigation.

We are committed to assisting the SanFratello family and the entire community through this difficult time.

In an interview with The Batavian, Wojtaszek said that Batavia Downs began contracting with the Sheriff's Office four or five months ago to provide a security detail to the casino on Friday and Saturday nights.  He said the arrangement is similar to what Batavia Downs does with Batavia PD and the Sheriff's Office during the summer concert series and that the agencies are compensated for the officers' time.  He reiterated during the interview, "We are committed to the safety and security of our patrons." 

UPDATE 6:05 p.m.: Heubusch said Elmore is in custody pending charges.

According to Heubusch, this is an ongoing investigation. Witnesses and people with video of the incident are asked to come forward. The Detective Bureau can be reached at 585-345-6311 or submit a tip at www.bataviapolice.org.

Guest speaker informs the Batavia Lions Club about lead poisoning

By Press Release
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Submitted photo of Batavia Lions President Ronald Metz and Program Speaker Grace Marzolf, MPH of Genesee County Health Department

Press Release:

Grace Marzolf, MPH, Public Health Educator from the Genesee County Health Department was the guest speaker whose topic was about childhood lead poisoning prevention at the recent Lions meeting. 

She noted that the health department has various programs such as the Children with Special Needs Program, Community Health Services, Emergency Preparedness, Environmental Health, Public Health Education, and Weights and Measures. 

The department also has a Lead Poisoning Prevention Program that services Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming (GLOW) Counties. Lead is toxic to the human body and there is an average of thirty childhood lead poisoning cases throughout Genesee
and Orleans Counties each year. 

Grace also informed the group they have programs to test for lead in homes with small children and pregnant women. Homes built before 1978 may have lead paint or plumbing, but lead can also be in imported toys and jewelry and contaminated soil. 

Exposure and rising lead levels occur with no obvious symptoms and frequently go unrecognized. There is no safe level of lead for children, especially vulnerable because of their developing bodies. Lead affects a child’s behavior and ability to learn but can be managed if caught in time.

Screening and remediation are available to qualified homeowners and landlords throughout the GLOW region as part of the HUD grant. Further information is available at the Health Department (585) 344-2850 x5555 or GOHealthNY.org.

The Batavia Lions Club meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Monday of each month and everyone is welcome to visit the American Legion, 8960 Alexander Road, Batavia.

Hawley visits Byron-Bergen Elementary as part of Read Across America day

By Press Release
hawley read across america day
Submitted photo of Hawley's visit to Byron-Bergen Elementary.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) visited Byron-Bergen, Kendall, and Barclay Elementary Schools for Read Across America Day. 

Hawley read to students in Ms. Conaghan and Mrs. Stephanek’s classrooms at Byron-Bergen Elementary School and Kendall Elementary School and spoke to two second-grade classes at Barclay Elementary School while participating in their yearly ‘crazy sock day.’ 

Hawley was happy to be able to visit with the students and inspire their love for reading on Read Across America Day.

“It was great to celebrate Read Across America Day with the students at Byron-Bergen, Barclay, and Kendall Elementary Schools,” said Hawley. “Reading is a great tool that helps us expand our minds and connect with others. I want to thank all of the schools, teachers, and staff members who are helping these students each day and making events like this possible.”

GCC's Roz Steiner Art Gallery presents 'Color Connection'

By Press Release
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Press Release:

Color is the cultural bridge that connects us all. With this idea in mind, Professor Heather Jones created an entire proposal and submitted it to the Fulbright Scholarship program, which centered around color in our daily lives. 

She has been a Professor of Fine Arts at Genesee Community College since 2008 and has conducted many study-abroad trips over the years. 

Through the Garcia Robles Fulbright Scholarship, Professor Jones has been collaborating with Professor Jose Luis Gonzalez-Cabrero and the Industrial Design Department at Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi in Mexico. 

There she has been teaching classes on color theory and photography while implanting the same curriculum with her online GCC students. The students were asked to photograph a specific color in their daily lives for a week while uploading the images to the class forums to facilitate discussion. The final product of the project is a combined photography exhibit featuring the color photographs the students have taken this semester.

The exhibit of over 200 student photographs, titled, "Color Connection", is being presented from March 25 - April 11, at both UASLP and GCC's Roz Steiner Art Gallery, simultaneously. Two receptions will be held on April 4. The afternoon reception will take place from 12:30 - 2 p.m., with the evening reception being hosted from 5 - 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. 

The gallery will remain open in between receptions. There will be a Fulbright presentation by Professor Heather Jones on April 4 at 12:30 p.m. in the gallery.

Color is a beacon to build a sense of connection and empathy. Literally, through color photography, we are placing the viewer into another person's point of view. Allowing a moment, to see the similarities and beautiful differences between two cultures. 

Color is a powerful vehicle to articulate this intimate and expressive vision, showing the best of cultural diversity. The motive for the exhibit is to utilize the creative process as a bridge to connect with people geographically far away and gain an understanding of their culture and daily lives. 

The goal is to promote a sense of empathy for diverse cultures by highlighting our similar views and connections to color. Hopefully, on a deeper level, we can make connections vs barriers between these two cultures.

The use of color is deeply knitted in our point of view to contemplate the world. (St Clair, 2017) In this exhibit, we explore a cultural color study between Batavia, New York, and San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Embracing the student's perspective, the exhibit is student-driven and the results are authentically their expressive narrative on the meaning of color related to their own sense of place and culture. 

The focal point of color is the expressive catalyst to develop a sense of connection and empathy among people engaging in the project. Through photography, the artists are placing viewers into another person's point of perspective. Allowing a moment, to see the similarities and beautiful differences between two cultures.

Graphic designer Lance Wyman said, "Color could turn into a cultural bridge to connect territory and people." (King, 2014). The Color Connection exhibit actively explores this concept with a socially creative collection of artwork categorized by color.

At the conclusion of the UASLP portion of the exhibit, the Fulbright program will sponsor Color Connection and tour it to different cities in Mexico. The hope is that the show will inspire compassion and unity in a time when differences try to divide us.

Follow the Roz Steiner Art Gallery on Facebook and Instagram to get to know some of the students participating in this exhibit.

For more information contact Vice President, Development and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu.

A preview of some of the photographs, courtesy of Genesee Community College.

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Tech Wars 2024 takes over GCC March 21

By Press Release
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Photo from Tech Wars 2023, courtesy of GCC.

Press Release:

Area technology middle and high school students and teachers, along with the GCC Accelerated College Enrollment (ACE) department and college community are working hard to prepare for the 15th GLOW Region Tech Wars! 

The event will be held Thursday, March 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Genesee Community College's Batavia Campus. The annual Tech Wars brings middle and high school students from all 24 of the Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming (GLOW) region's school districts together in teams to demonstrate their technical expertise through innovative, mind-expanding competitions.

This year's competitors (students) have chosen from close to 30 available competitions to showcase - and put to the test - some basic and some extremely intricate and innovative technology. 

Regardless of the event, all the students enjoy the opportunity to see their hard work come to fruition. Tech Wars event details, rules, and competition descriptions are available at techwarsgccny.org.

Tech Wars 2024 brings back some favorite events for high schoolers such as Battlebot Soccer; the Regatta; Bridge; CO2 Cars; Logo Design; Sculpture; Onsite CAD Drawing and Reverse Engineering CAD; Skimmer Cars; Sumo Bots; Tractor Pull; Trebuchet and Lumber Labyrinth. A Drone Agility event will be new for high school students this year.

The 2024 event brings back the Mini-Bot competition as well as Skimmer Cars and Technical Drawing for the middle schoolers and other legacy events such as Catapult; Rube Goldberg; and Sculpture. Back by popular demand for all participants is the Mystery Event which allows students to use their creativity and skills in an on-demand, timed situation.

Annually, Tech Wars also features STEAM Jam @ Tech Wars, an event held simultaneously for 3rd to 5th grade students from GLOW region schools. Over 100 students will participate in various team building and mind-stimulating activities that foster skills in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM). As an educational precursor to a future in technology, STEAM Jam participants will have the opportunity to observe the fun and exciting Tech Wars 2024 competitions.

Educational support for Tech Wars and STEAM Jam comes from the dedication, state-of-the-art facilities, and quality instruction in the GLOW region schools. Teachers share ideas and explore new technology and developments through both a Regional STEAM Teachers' cohort and a Regional Tech Teachers' Cohort.

Tech Wars has been continually supported by many local manufacturers and organizations. The 2024 event is yet again, presented with a record number of sponsors. Gold Sponsors: Amada Tool America, Inc.; Barilla America, NY, Inc.; GCEDC; Graham Manufacturing; I.B.E.W. Local Union 86; Liberty Pumps, and Northeast Industrial Tech Inc. Silver and Bronze Sponsors: Morton Salt, Inc; Power and Construction Group; Takeform and the Varysburg Lions Club. The generosity of the Tech Wars sponsors enables the committee to offer 2 scholarships per year to encourage graduating seniors to enter the technology and trade fields and potentially stay or return to the GLOW region with their skills.

"The support of local businesses and organizations in this region is second to none," Ann Valento, director of ACE programs said. "Without these organizations and other generous local donors, Tech Wars would not be possible. Our local sponsors also serve as volunteers, judges, and spend their valuable time talking with students and inspiring entrepreneurial spirit. In addition, the businesses that participate in these events get an exclusive opportunity to meet and network with the future workforce in our community. We are beginning to see second-generation participants which indicates our efforts are being actualized."

Tech Wars is also proudly sponsored and hosted by Genesee Community College and its ACE programs. The ACE team and the entire GCC community work diligently to provide a safe and appropriately equipped environment to showcase the students' technological skills and creativity.

Tech Wars is among several dynamic programs giving students the opportunity to learn hands-on, often in business settings and with industry professionals. The ACE Program's Career Pathways is committed to helping students explore career options and make a smooth transition from high school to further education and/or a career. To view the 2023 Tech Wars photo album, Click Here.

Hawley announces launch of NY first training stipend program for volunteer firefighters

By Press Release

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) announced the launch of the state’s new training stipend program for volunteer firefighters today. This program came as a part of a push by the state to strengthen New York’s volunteer fire companies. 

It will include a total of $10 million, which will go toward the costs of mandatory training courses volunteer firefighters go through. Volunteer fire departments are essential to New York’s safety, and more than three-quarters of these departments have seen decreases in the number of those willing to serve. Hawley is proud to see this program take effect and is committed to supporting Western New York’s local volunteer fire departments.

The stipend rates are as follows:

Course Stipend

Basic Exterior Firefighting Operations - $750.00

Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus/Interior Firefighting Operations - $1,250.00

Fire Officer 1 - $1,000

“Volunteer fire companies are one of the most vital aspects of public safety in New York,” said Hawley. “Over the years, however, we’ve seen a drastic number of volunteer firefighters leaving local fire departments because they do not have the resources they need to do their jobs properly. This new stipend program is a great first step toward supporting firefighters in training and incentivizing others to volunteer. I’m proud to support this program and I will continue to fight to make sure our volunteer fire departments get the help and support they need to do their jobs.”

Faith formation program volunteers at Lent soup supper

By Press Release
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Press Release:

Our Ascension Roman Catholic Community and Resurrection RC Parish Faith Formation put their faith into action by graciously volunteering at the weekly Lent Soup Supper at Ascension Parish. 

This supper helps benefit the following local charities All Babies Cherished, Catholic Relief Services, and Catholic Charities. 

Submitted photos by Jason Smith.

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March is a busy month for bowling tournaments

By Mike Pettinella

Time "Marches" on and so does the list of bowling tournaments this month throughout the Genesee Region.

Oak Orchard Bowl in Albion and Medina Lanes are hosting no-tap events this weekend, while Mancuso Bowling Center in Batavia, Letchworth Pines in Portageville and StrikeForce Lanes in Oakfield will be hosting tournaments over the next three weekends.

-- March 9-10: Spartans Youth Baseball Triples No-Tap Handicap, Oak Orchard Bowl, Albion. Squad times are 1 and 3 p.m. on Saturday and noon, 2 and 4:30 p.m. on Sunday. Entry fee is $75 per team. One in six teams will cash. Proceeds will benefit Spartans Youth Baseball (Under 11-Under 16 Divisions). To enter, call 585-589-6900 or 585-590-6717.

-- March 9: Amaranth Fights Diabetes Doubles No-Tap Handicap, Medina Lanes. Squad times are noon and 3 p.m. Entry fee is $50 per team. To enter, call 716-250-8515 or 716-425-5369.

-- March 16: T.F. Brown's Scratch Eliminator, Mancuso Bowling Center. First place is $1,500 with an entry fee of $65. Squad times are 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. One in five entries will cash, with incentives for senior (50-and-over) and women bowlers. Call 716-474-7960 to enter.

-- March 23-24: Genesee Region USBC No-Tap Handicap Triples, Letchworth Pines. First place, based on 48 teams, is $90. Entry fee is $90 per team. Squad times are 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday and noon and 3 p.m. on Sunday. Email mikep@bowlgr.com to enter. The tournament is dedicated to the late Al Vlietstra, GRUSBC Hall of Famer.

-- March 30: 1st Paul Townsend Memorial No-Tap Handicap Doubles, StrikeForce Lanes. Squad times are 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Entry fee is $60 per team. First place is $400 guaranteed. Maximum team average is 460. One in six will cash. Proceeds will benefit Crossroads House. To enter, call 585-948-6060 or 585-297-4262. 

PERRY BOWLERS PLACE FIRST, SECOND IN KING & QUEEN

Perry Bowling Center league bowlers captured the top two spots last weekend at the annual King & Queen Handicap Mixed Doubles Tournament at Mancuso Bowling Center.

The team of Katie Buckley and Chad Dunning defeated the duo of Nate Koson and Montana Bzduch in the final match to win the $500 first prize. Koson and Bzduch earned $300.

Reaching the semifinals ($200 each) were Chris and Caycee Bardol of Brockport and Mickey and Samantha Hyde of Le Roy.

Finishing fifth through eighth ($150 apiece) were Tom Rohl of Le Roy/Robin Blaun of Oakfield, Heather Johnson/Gregg Wolff of Batavia, Dan Gizzi/Julie Selk of Buffalo and Mark Brown of Attica/Tracy Spanitz of Rochester.

Other local teams cashing ($100 each) were Scott O'Neill of East Bethany/Judy Blaun of Elba, Brian Weber/Karissa Schuster of Perry, Scott/Christine Shields of Batavia, Shayne Herold/Naomi Hyde of Batavia and Jason Van Buren/Kara Henderson of Batavia.

GLOW YMCA swimmers qualify for state championship

By Press Release
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Submitted photo of (from left to right) Top row: Daniel Hoffman, Phinehas Kelley, Annora Karcher, Annie Erion, Anna Kent, Keira Sidari, Tori Davis, Rose Reisdorf, Addison Winters, Caleb Henning
Middle row: Josh Pritchett, Damon Reich, Wyatt Fisher, Robert Hoffman, McKenzie Dosh, Macey D’Amico, Sarah Pritchett, Liliana Bellamy, Rowan Kelley
Bottom row: Nevada Newton, Sebastian Countermine, Lockerbie Newton, Connor Dervin, Anna Pritchett, Nina Kent, Reilly Davis

Press Release:

The GLOW YMCA Riptide Swim Team out of Batavia had a very successful regular season. 26 members met the age group qualification standards for the NYS YMCA State Swimming Championship. 

The meet will be held from March 15 - 17 at the Nassau Aquatic Center on Long Island. The ages of the swimmers range from 7 to 17 and attend local school districts including Batavia, Byron-Bergen, Le Roy, Oakfield-Alabama, St. Joseph’s School, and Pembroke. 

The team will compete in 58 individual events and 10 relays. The team is coached by Jen Pritchett, Andrew Fisher, and Emily Hirsch.

Early Easter event includes bunny, egg hunt, fun activities and basket fundraiser for food pantry

By Joanne Beck
North Bergen Pantry
North Bergen Pantry's temporary digs at Bergen United Methodist Church as it conducts fundraisers to find a larger and more permanent home.
Submitted Photo

Alesha Smith says that at the end of 2023, when North Bergen Community Food Pantry lost its home, a team of folks has been doing what it can to raise money for a more permanent space to accommodate the generous donations that come pouring in along with Foodlink.

Not that anyone begrudges the hospitality shown to pantry volunteers by Bergen United Methodist Church, which stepped in to provide a room, albeit smaller than the former space at North Bergen Presbyterian Church that closed in December, she said, but the pantry really could use much more breathing room. 

"The North Bergen Food Pantry was an undertaking that Dave Fish was very passionate to bring to the rural community. Although there is a large need for these items amongst us country folk, Dave does not turn anyone away,” Smith said. “Since opening the pantry, he has helped serve over 400 households." 

So, with Easter right around the corner, the nonprofit has collaborated with the Rev. Roula Alkhouri of Batavia First Presbyterian for an Easter Egg Hunt. Meant to be a pre-Easter fun event and raise some funds toward the pantry’s new future home, it’s set for 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. March 23 at the church, 300 E. Main St., Batavia.

“The event will include crafts and activities for kids, doughnuts (from Sweet Ally’s in Oakfield), pictures with the Easter bunny, goodie bags, an egg hunt, and a basket raffle,” Alkhouri said. “It is free and open to all. Our hope is to share the joy of Easter by helping the children in our community have a positive and fun event. The event will be indoors. This started for us during COVID when children were unable to have group activities or school. We held the event outside, but now we can use the inside of the church to have fun without worrying about the weather.”

"In August of 2019, Dave and four volunteers took the appropriate training and obtained all the required equipment to open the pantry," Smith said. "They obtained everything from food items, pet food, stationery, and personal hygiene products from Foodlink, and through personal donations. Now they officially have seven board members.”

Smith and two others, Melodi Leaton and Kassie Bowen, comprise the fundraising committee. After meeting up with Fish, they all learned of his “welcoming, friendly demeanor, compassion and listening ear,” and helped to connect everyone to work together and, in time, become good friends as well, she said. 

Smith is grateful to be working with the Batavia church for this event, she said. The pantry's goal was to collect enough donations to raffle 10 baskets, and that goal has already been exceeded, she said. There will be assorted theme baskets of kitchenware items, a teenage girl’s basket filled with slippers, nail polish, and other pampering items, a mandala coloring book and colored pencils, kids’ Easter baskets, and many more, she said. 

“The optional baskets will be the only cost, but will greatly help raise the much-needed funds for our pantry to find a home of our own,” she said. “While several other egg hunts are happening the same time/day, we would love for our community members to know that not only do we have more to offer — face painting, crafts, doughnuts, egg hunt, goodie bags and the bunny, of course — we will also be having several raffle baskets. Our event is free and open to everyone."

Fish has said that the pantry has the equipment, including refrigerators, freezers, shelving units, and, most importantly, volunteers who are willing to continue the mission. What it needs is at least 2,000 square feet of space that offers a handicapped entrance, parking, and a restroom, he said. 

Board members are Nancy Cook, Karen Tennity, Amanda Cook, Dawn Sprague, Kevin Kent, Rick Woodring, and Patty Lamon, and Hal Milward, pastor of Bergen United Methodist Church, has been a huge supporter, Smith said. 

Basket tickets will be sold at the event for $5 per sheet of 25. Winners need not be present to receive the basket. 

easter 2022
2022 File Photo of Brielle, then 3, and Everly, then 5, with their Easter egg finds at the Easter egg hunt at Batavia First Presbyterian Church. 
Photo by Howard Owens.

 

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