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Today's local deals: Cinquino's Pizza, Alabama Hotel, Oliver's, and more

By Kara Richenberg

NOTE: Members of Early Access Pass get first crack (four hours earlier access than non-members) at making Deals of the Day purchases. Join Early Access Pass today to ensure you don't miss any valuable deals.

Today's Deals:

  • Cinquino's Pizza
  • Alabama Hotel
  • Oliver's Candies
  • Adam Miller Toy and Bicycle
  • Livia Beauty and Spa
  • Santino's Pizza

Le Roy residents asked to vote on Tuesday on new school bus proposal

By Press Release

Press release:

Le Roy Central School District 
2024 Bus/Vehicle Purchase Public Vote
March 19, 2024

2 p.m. - 7 p.m. in the Wolcott Street School Media Center  

PROPOSITION 1
Le Roy Central School residents are being asked to authorize the district to borrow money for the purchase of new school buses in an amount not to exceed $390,000. This dollar amount would purchase two (2) 65-passenger buses and one (1) utility passenger vehicle. All buses listed will include a two-way radio and built-in video surveillance equipment. 

Le Roy Central School District has implemented a 10-year replacement cycle for all school buses. This replacement cycle is based on a history of mileage and usage. The District has found that maintenance costs, body repairs, rust damage and safety issues increase significantly once a bus reaches approximately 10 years of age, particularly as school buses must pass New York State D.O.T. inspections twice a year. Additionally, the strain of typical driving patterns creates faster wear on buses, as an average school bus makes approximately 100 stops and starts during a single day. 

All public schools in New York State receive a reimbursement from New York State for such school bus purchases over a 5 year period.  The Le Roy Central School District’s reimbursement ratio is currently 90%, thus the taxpayers would be responsible for the remaining 10%. The District’s plan is to borrow these funds to align the debt repayment with the reimbursement period.

 What Does This Mean for Taxpayers?

  • Cost of 2 Buses and passenger vehicle: $390,000
  • NYS Reimbursement at 90% for buses: (-$351,000)
  • Local Cost of 2 Buses and utility vehicle: $39,000

The total Le Roy taxpayer cost of buses/equipment would be $39,000 for this proposition, which, when divided over a five-year payback period, is approximately $7,800 per year from the General Fund Budget. When this amount is then divided into the assessment value total for the entire District, each taxpayer will pay approximately two cents per thousand dollars assessed value each year. In other words, if your home is assessed for $150,000, you would pay roughly $0.30 (30 cents) a year for this proposition. 

Much appreciation shown for volunteers at Byron Fire Department’s annual dinner

By Steve Ognibene
Byron Fire Department 2023 award recipients, Photo by Steve Ognibene
Byron Fire Department 2023 service award recipients, Photo by Steve Ognibene

Byron Fire Department held it’s 2024 recognition and installation of officers Saturday evening at the fire hall.  More than 100 people attended the event to honor volunteers who have served in the department. 

In the 2023 year of review presented by Captain Brandon Crossett, there were 226 total calls, 168 of which were EMS calls. John Durand had 196 Calls, Bob Mruczek 167, Edward Sharp 137, Brandon Crossett 126.

A moment of silence was given to Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello who passed away on March 10 in the line of duty.  A 50/50 raffle was raised for the family of Sgt. Sanfratello.  The winner chose to give their winning proceeds towards the total raised, which was $230.

In 2023 some significant mentions included the town board and community used funds to purchase a new town park and Byron rescue ambulance.

The Ladies Auxiliary presented awards that totaled 185 service years, and member of the year was Morgan Leaton.

Award highlights:

2023 Firefighter of the Year - Michael Alexander

Acknowledgement of Chiefs Award – Cory Russell

Most Training hours in Genesee County - Michael Alexander, 201

Training Award - Brandon Crossett 132 hrs

EMS Award - Debra Buck-Leaton EMT of the Year

Dedication of Service Award - Fire Chief Bob Mruczek

Recognitions:

Ken McKendrick Jr, 45 years of service

David Barringer, 50 years of service

Jim Hutchinson, 55 years of service

Other awards were given to, Pete Lochner, Steve Lochner, Joe Wells, Joshua Woika, Tammy Wells, Lori Mruczek, Morgan Leaton and Julia Wasinger.

To view or purchase photos, click here.

Photos by Steve Ognibene

Byron Fire Deptartment 2024 installation of Officers  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Byron Fire Department 2024 installation of Officers.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
L to R, Chief Bob Mruczek presenting special awards to Pete Lochner, Steve Lochner, Joe Wells  Photo by Steve Ognibene
From left, Chief Bob Mruczek presenting special awards to Pete Lochner, Steve Lochner, Joe Wells.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
L to R special awards, Tammy Wells, Lori Mruczek, Morgan Leaton, Julia Wasinger  Photo by Steve Ognibene
From left, special awards went to Tammy Wells, Lori Mruczek, Morgan Leaton, Julia Wasinger. 
Photo by Steve Ognibene
A standing ovation was given to David Barringer for 50 years of service  Photo by Steve Ognibene
A standing ovation was given to David Barringer for 50 years of service.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Firefighter of the Year, Michael Alexander  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Firefighter of the Year, Michael Alexander.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Cory Russell was presented the Chiefs Award by Bob Mruczek  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Cory Russell was presented the Chiefs Award by Bob Mruczek.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
L to R Tyler Lang presents Brandon Crossett and Michael Alexander with top training service hours awards  Photo by Steve Ognibene
From left, Tyler Lang presents Brandon Crossett and Michael Alexander with top training service hours awards.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
L to R Kaleena Neal-Smith and Bob Mruczek present Debra Buck-Leaton with the EMT of the Year award  Photo by Steve Ognibene
From left, Kaleena Neal-Smith and Bob Mruczek present Debra Buck-Leaton with the EMT of the Year Award.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Ladies Auxillary combined 185 years of dedication to the Byron Fire Department  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Ladies Auxillary combined 185 years of dedication to the Byron Fire Department.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Ladies Auxillary Member of the year Morgan Leaton (holding flowers)  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Ladies Auxillary Member of the year Morgan Leaton (holding flowers).
Photo by Steve Ognibene

Statement from Borrello on the Senate Majority's 'One House budget'

By Press Release

Press Release:

“There is no clearer way for citizens to communicate their unhappiness with the governance of their state than by packing up their households and moving out. Here in New York, our residents are virtually shouting that message as they are leaving in such numbers that our state has topped the nation in outmigration for several years running.

Regrettably, rather than use that valuable information to cut taxes and lower the cost of living - the chief factors driving the exodus - my colleagues continue to steadfastly ignore this reality. Their head-in-the-sand approach is evident in the majority’s One House Budget which actually doubles down on the tax-and-spend and politically-driven policies that have brought us to this point. They’ve taken an already bloated $233 billion Executive Budget and inflated it to a staggering $246.2 billion, which represents a 44 PERCENT increase since 2019.

Not surprisingly, spending isn’t the only thing going up in this budget. The majority’s plan raises more than $14 BILLION in taxes over the next two years through increases in the income tax, on businesses and on health insurance. These tax increases will only accelerate the stampede out of New York, taking much-needed jobs, revenue, economic activity, and people with them.

It doesn’t have to be this way. Our Republican Conference has proposed a package of targeted and much-needed income, property and small business tax cuts in our 2024 agenda which would be a crucial step forward toward changing the reality and perception of New York as an unaffordable, high-tax state.

I acknowledge there are worthy restorations in this plan that I advocated for, including a reversal of the Executive Budget’s inequitable school aid cuts and increased aid for upstate transportation. I am glad that our voices were heard on these issues as well as on the need to stabilize our financially ailing hospitals and nursing homes with additional funding and reimbursement rate increases. As one who has been advocating for relief to our cannabis farmers who were hurt by the state’s botched rollout of its legal market, I am glad to see funding and grant programs for them included among other important aid increases to agriculture programs, including Nourish NY.

Ultimately, however, this One House Budget takes us further away from the priorities we should be moving towards. The crushing $2.4 billion in no-strings-attached spending on Democrats’ self-created migrant crisis is an unending drain on taxpayer funds that is unsustainable and irresponsible.

There are tens of millions of dollars spent on ‘bandaids’ like retail store security tax credits and retail theft task forces which have only become necessary because of the Democrats’ disastrous bail changes. While I am opposed to the concept of including policy in the budget, the fact that the majority removed the governor’s

proposals to increase penalties for thieves who assault retail workers and for hate crimes is representative of Democrats’ dangerous and incomprehensible protection of violent criminals. They’ve also reduced funding for the state police and included a bill that would make it easier for convicted criminals to overturn their sentences, a bill Governor Hochul rightfully vetoed last year.

It is discouraging that my Democratic colleagues can’t see or refuse to see the toll their policies are taking on everyday New Yorkers, on our economy, and on the quality of life in our beloved state. The funding and policies in this plan would only worsen the problems New Yorkers are most concerned about, which is why I voted against it.”

Work to continue on Jackson Street water project Tuesday

By Press Release

Press Release:

Please be advised that Blue Heron Construction will continue to work on interconnections for the Jackson Street Water project tomorrow, Tuesday, March 19, on Jackson Street from Ellicott to Main Street. 

Loss of water should be expected in this area and possible surrounding area depending on valve closures needed. If discolored water occurs when water pressure is regained, please avoid doing laundry or cooking until the water runs clear.

We apologize for any inconvenience, and thank the public for its patience and cooperation as we work to improve our community.

Oakfield native returns to 'pride of his roots' as medical practitioner

By Joanne Beck
Kevin Bluer
Kevin Beuler
Submitted Photo

As talk of a mass exodus — the droves of youth and others fed up with rural life and lack of opportunities in this area and New York State — has supposedly been draining the local population, there’s been at least a gain of two people recently who wanted to move back in.

Oakfield native Kevin Beuler made a purposeful choice to return to Genesee County from Pennsylvania with his wife, Brooke, as others have left the area for greener pastures.

“I’ve been craving to come back. I came back because of the exodus, but just to give back to the community because of what they put their time into me, all those teachers, all the people you grow up around, they help build you up to who you become,” Beuler said during an interview with The Batavian. “Those are very crucial years for a young person, and to be able to come back to a rural place like Oakfield or Pembroke or Batavia to be able to come to a full circle to become part of the community to give back, and then totally do the same for young ones as I was blessed with an experience with, it’s like taking pride in your roots.”

A 2010 Oakfield-Alabama High School graduate, he went on to University at Buffalo for the pre-medicine track, majoring in mathematics, a favorite subject in school. 

“I really loved mathematics in high school, and still do. To be honest, it’s the emotional connection that I would have (with) my two teachers in high school; they were phenomenal. And so because of them being such great teachers I just really love and appreciate math even more,” he said. “But I love the computation. I love plugging and chugging things. I like to be able to balance out equations and it’s just fascinating. I love numbers. I'm a numbers guy.”

Those two teachers are Wendy Bergman and Barb Harkness. They made a difference in his high school years and especially in his pursuit of all things math-related, he said.

When asked how and if that fits with his current career as a physician’s assistant, he believes it’s more about solving puzzles and making the pieces, such as one’s mental condition and a lab report, “fit part of the equation.” 

“So you start putting things together, and then it balances out in the equation, then you find out what might be the diagnosis. So I guess it’s similar,” he said.

He then went on to DeSales University in Pennsylvania for his master’s in physician assistant studies, which he completed in 2018. It was there where he met his wife, Brooke, a fellow physician assistant. 

It’s that career that has landed Beuler at Oak Orchard Medical in Pembroke. He and his wife moved to Oakfield late this winter. He is passionate about football and most sports, and as a former trumpeter in the high school jazz band, he also enjoys playing and listening to music.

It was while working as a medical scribe for Dr. Kasir Khan at UBMD Internal Medicine in Buffalo in August 2016 that Beuler first realized that he was interested in treating the entire family rather than focusing on one age group.

“I helped prepare his notes, I learned all his medical decision-making and how to just be able to be more than just a doctor taking notes, just to be able to practice great quality medicine, and being able to see all the different ages, all the different crux of a person's health care where you're organizing their endocrinologist, a cardiologist, all the specialties, but the patient keeps coming back to you, I thought that was just a huge inspiration,” he said. “But then he didn't see the kids so I missed the kids. So I realized during school when I did all my rotations that I enjoyed having the pediatrics as well. So to be able to blend and have both instead of just specializing in pediatrics or specializing in adult primary care, I thought family medicine would be the most rewarding.

 “My big focus is on education. I love being able to spend time explaining things to patients,” he said. “I feel that professionals sometimes talk at the patient, and I feel it’s very important to talk very clearly. It’s important to their quality of life.”

Common issues that he has seen lately have been stress — “that’s a big one” — and the consequences of long-term smoking, not being able to strike a work-life balance, chronic use of pain medications “is a huge problem that we face,” and “the rise of diabetes and food that we’re eating,” he said.

Do people ever question your being a physician assistant versus a medical doctor?

Beuler doesn’t mind the question, he said. 

“It's definitely always out there. There will always be that bias. And there's nothing wrong with that. I will never look down upon someone who has that bias. I feel like it's almost naturally ingrained in our culture,” he said. “But I also invite the challenge; it kind of helps push me during learning to try to learn as much as I could so that if a person saw me, they wouldn't know the difference or care about the difference of the degree.”

Beuler speaks conversational Spanish in addition to English. He is accepting new patients and works under the supervision of Dr. Mary Obear. He is also interested in managing chronic conditions, diagnosing acute medical issues, women’s health, and orthopedics. 

He is passionate about creating a positive, judgment-free environment and providing high-quality care that focuses on educating and empowering all patients. 

“I think I put a lot of pride in trying to really reflect that, even though I might not be a doctor, mid-levels, like NPs and PAs, you can definitely find a provider that you can connect with that has the knowledge to be able to to help you through any kind of a medical crisis or link you to the right people to help improve your health,” he said. “And at the same time, on the other side, knowing your limitations, that's why we work alongside doctors to help ensure that we are providing evidence-based medicine, ensuring that we're doing the best for the patient, and treating the patient and not just numbers or pushing medicines. It's very important to stress that collaborating with physicians is a very important part of the job.”

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 585-599-6446.

Batavian Adam Philp wins eight matches en route to Super Bud Bowl tournament title

By Mike Pettinella
Adam Philp
Adam Philp of Batavia has 5,500 reasons to smile after winning the Super Bud Bowl last Sunday night at Lighthouse Lanes in Oswego. Official tournament photo.

Adam Philp became the second Batavian to win the prestigious – and extremely challenging – Super Bud Bowl at Lighthouse Lanes in Oswego last Sunday.

Competing in a tournament that normally attracts more than 1,100 bowlers over the course of a week (this year’s entries totaled 1,178), the 40-year-old right-hander won eight straight matches to earn the $5,500 first prize.

Seeded third in the three-bowler finals, he defeated 2020 Super Bud Bowl champion Nick Galusha of Altamont, 217-194, before knocking off No. 1 seed Joe Mazuryk of Schenectady, 219-160, for the title.

While 48 of the 96 finalists received either one- or two-round byes, depending upon their scores and placement on their respective qualifying squads during the week, Philp wasn’t as fortunate. He qualified on Tuesday night with an 811 four-game total, which guaranteed him a spot in the finals but without a bye.

That meant he needed to win eight straight matches under the single-elimination format to become the champion.

“It was surreal,” he said in a phone interview with The Batavian. “I couldn’t believe I did it – especially coming from having no byes. Some of the guys were saying that I’m only the third or fourth person that’s ever won the tournament that way.”

The tournament has produced 36 different winners in its 36 years. Philp joins the late Joe Trigilio (1999) as the only Batavia residents to win the event.

Philp averaged around 215 in his eight wins. His lowest score was 182, coming in a third-game match against Tori Burkins of Ravena, and it almost wasn’t enough.

“That was that was my closest match,” he said. “She actually could have struck on the first ball the 10th frame to beat me, but she left a weak 10-pin. I pretty much had the match in hand until I left a bomb 7-10 (split) to give her a chance."

He won that match by six pins and then went on to defeat Ray LeChase II and Andrew Kopec, both of Rochester, and Brandon Boyer of Glens Falls to reach the stepladder final round.

Mazuryk won $2,800 as the runner-up and Galusha pocketed $1,600.

The finals, which started around 4 p.m., were delayed for more than two hours by a power outage and didn’t finish until 11:15 p.m.

“It was a long day and then I had to drive to Massachusetts for work right afterwards,” said Philp, who is employed by the CSX Transportation railroad. “I didn’t get to the hotel until 5:15 in the morning. I had an adrenaline rush until about 4 o’clock and then I hit a brick wall.”

When he’s not bowling (Philp participates in the County Line Stone Trios League at Mancuso Bowling Center), he’s watching his 9-year-old son, Gavin, play hockey or his 6-year-old daughter, Naomi, dance. He and his wife, Anna, also have a daughter, Macie, who’s almost 2.

Philp is a former Genesee Region USBC Scratch Memorial champion. His previous best finish in the Super Bud Bowl was making it to the round of 12.

Three Perry bowlers cashed at the Super Bud Bowl. Chad Dunning made it to the round of 12, earning $600; Brian Weber won one match, good for $340, and Dennis Van Duser took home $170.

RICH WAGNER POSTS 300 GAME

In GRUSBC league action last week, Batavia lefty Rich Wagner added to his long list of honor scores with a 300 game in the Toyota of Batavia 4-Man League at Mancuso Bowling Center. He finished with a 684 series.

Chase Cone of Byron rolled a 753 series in the Tuesday Nite Coed League at Mancuso's, finishing with a 267 game.

At Oak Orchard Bowl in Albion, Curtis Foss had games of 279, 255 and 236 for a 770 series to lead the way in the Sneezy's Monday Night League.

Northville scores 17 in fourth quarter to end Elba's state championship hopes in semifinal

By Howard B. Owens
sydney reilly elba basketball state semifinal

After trailing for most of the game, a fourth-quarter surge pushed Northville over Elba on Saturday in Troy to end the Lancers’ season in the state semifinal game.

Northville won 42-34 after scoring 17 points to just five for Elba in the fourth quarter. At the end of three quarters, Elba led 29-25.

Hailey Monroe, a leading scorer for Northville, was only 2-18  from the field for the first 28 minutes of the game. She drained her final five shots of the game to propel her team to victory.

Maddie Hall scored 10 points for Elba, Lydia Ross, nine, and Sydney Reilly, seven.

Monroe finished with 24 points.

Photos by Debra Reilly

elba basketball state semifinal
elba basketball state semifinal
elba basketball state semifinal
 elba basketball state semifinal
Adi Norton received the Sportsmanship Player of the Game award.
elba basketball state semifinal
Sydney Reilly with the finalist plaque award to the Elba team.

More than 300 people celebrate Genesee County agriculture at annual dinner in Alexander

By Staff Writer
genesee county ag dinner
The Cupicha family, Cupicha Family Farm, Soil and Water's Conservation Farm of the Year.
Photo by Philip Casper.

Genesee County's agriculture community came together at the Alexander Fire Hall on Saturday for the Celebration of Ag Dinner, with more than 300 people in attendance.

This was the 20th year for the event.

The Cupicha Family Farm of Bethany was this year's Conservation Farm of the Year.

The award recognizes farms that are good stewards of the land.  

Third-generation farmer Mark Cupicha completed numerous projects to mitigate erosion and maintain the health of the soil on his 405-acre farm, which consists of steep and sloping land in the Black Creek and Little Tonawanda watersheds.

Cupicha couldn't thank Jared Elliot and the Genesee County Soil and Water Conservation District team enough for helping maintain the health of his land, always answering his calls, and coming out to the field.

"If you take care of the soil, the soil takes care of you," said Cupicha.

The meal, prepared by Chef Tracy Burgio and her staff, consisted of beef, chicken, corn fritters, maple-glazed carrots, and roasted potatoes, most of which were donated by local farms in attendance. 

Representative Claudia Tenney, Assemblyman Steve Hawley, and Senator George Borrello were in attendance to extend their thanks to the Cupicha family farm for being great stewards of the land.

genesee county ag dinner
Appetizer cheese donated by Yancey's Fancy 
Photo by Philip Casper.
genesee county ag dinner
Photo by Philip Casper.
genesee county ag dinner
Photo by Philip Casper.
genesee county ag dinner
Photo by Philip Casper.
genesee county ag dinner
Jared Elliot, Senior Field Manager for the Genesee County Soil and Water Conservation District, Mark Cupicha
Photo by Philip Casper.
ag dinner
genesee county ag dinner
Senator George Borello, Mark Cupicha 
Photo by Philip Casper.
ag dinner
Rep. Claudia Tenney, Mark Cupicha
Photo by Philip Casper

East Pembroke Fire catches up with three years of awards at installation dinner

By Howard B. Owens
east pembroke fire dinner 2024
James Gayton was named Firefighter of the Year for East Pembroke at the department's awards and installation dinner on Saturday night.
Photo by Howard Owens.

It's been four years since the East Pembroke Fire Department came together for an awards and officer installation dinner, so there were a few awards to hand out on Saturday night.

Chief Don Newton recognized years of service and training hours for 2021, 2022, and 2023, as well as handing out, along with Tim Yaeger, the Service Awards and Firefighter of the Year for each year.

The Service Award for 2021 went to the Genesee County Health Department for support and assistance during the pandemic.

Jennifer Groff was named Firefighter of the Year for 2021.

For 2022, the Service Award went to the Genesee County Office of Emergency Management for all of its assistance around Christmas when Winter Storm Elliott hit.

Dave Martin, who couldn't attend the dinner, was named Firefighter of the Year for 2022.

Willie Welch received a special award for his 40 years of dedicated service to the fire department and the county. Paul Fenton also has 40 years of service but wasn't available on Saturday night.

The Service Award for 2023 went to Adam Pearce. 

The Firefighter of the Year for 2023 is James Gayton, who was recognized for his dedication to the department, whether it is fixing things that are broken, cleaning what needs to be cleaned, or barbecuing at fundraisers.

Newton said, "He puts his time in and gives us the best of everything he can."

The 2024 firematic officers:

  • Don Newton, Jr., chief
  • Charles Chatley, deputy chief
  • Andrew Martin, assistant chief
  • Travis Dobrowsky, EMS chief
  • James Gayton, firematic captain
  • Jennifer Groff, EMS captain
  • Ken Marble, exterior fire captain
  • Kyle Rupp, firematic lieutenant
  • Stephen Smelski, EMS lieutenant
  • Richard Groff, fire police captain

Administrative Officers:

  • Donald Newton, Sr., president
  • Ken Marble, vice president
  • Julie Waldron, secretary and parade marshall
  • Riley Martin, sergeant of arms
  • Adam Pearce, assistant parade marshall
  • Pastor Bloom, chaplin

Board of Directors: Andrew Martin, Donald Newton, Sr., Charles Chatley, Ken Marble, Stephen Smelski, Julie Waldron, Dale Lewter, Patrick Gallaway.

District Representatives:

  • James Gayton, chairman
  • Patrick Reeves, sergeant of arms
  • Kristi Humphrey, treasurer,
  • Kevin Gill, assistant chairman
  • MaryAnn Chatley, secretary
  • Richard Groff, commissioner
east pembroke fire dinner 2024
Tim Yaeger, Genesee County's emergency management coordinator, was the evening's master of ceremonies.
Photos by Howard Owens.
east pembroke fire dinner 2024
Don Newton, Tim Yaeger, Charles Chatley, and Gary Patnode (Office of Emergency Management), with the 2022 Service Award
Photo by Howard Owens.
east pembroke fire dinner 2024
Bill Welch receiving the 2023 Service Award from Tim Yaeger.
Photo by Howard Owens.
east pembroke fire dinner 2024
Adam Pearce received the Service Award for 2023, with Don Newton.
Photo by Howard Owens.
east pembroke fire dinner 2024
Tim Yaeger presented to Chief Don Newton and the department an award for most training hours in the county in 2023.
Photo by Howard Owens.
east pembroke fire dinner 2024
Don Newton, Charles Chatley, and Andrew Martin, with plaques they received in recognition of their position as chief, deputy chief, and assistant chief.
Photo by Howard Owens.
east pembroke fire dinner 2024
Tim Yaeger administered the oath of office.
Photo by Howard Owens.
east pembroke fire dinner 2024
James Gayton rang a bell and Charles Chatley lit candles to honor first responders who have passed in the last year, including a candle for Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, whose funeral service was earlier in the day on Saturday.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Erin go bragh!

By Mike Pettinella
rusty nail
Staff and patrons at Rusty Nail Bar & Grill/StrikeForce Lanes in Oakfield are celebrating St. Patrick's Day today with traditional Irish dinners, beer specials and giveaways. From left are Tom Porter, Chris Fowler, Pat Wester, Jodi Puccio, Kim Fluker, Traci Wester, Chris Shultz and Zack Wester. Photo by Mike Pettinella.

PBA standout Sam Cooley of Australia wins scratch tournament at Mancuso Bowling Center

By Press Release

Press release:

Professional Bowlers Tour standout Sam Cooley found his way to Mancuso Bowling Center in Batavia on Saturday and, unsurprisingly, placed first in the annual T.F. Brown’s Scratch Eliminator tournament.

The 32-year-old right-hander from Sydney, Australia rolled a 265 game in the four-person final round to capture the $1,500 top prize.

Dan Vick of Rochester and Adam Jozwiak of Buffalo each posted 234 to split the second ($900) and third ($700) place money while Pat Brick of Buffalo registered a 226 game to finish fourth ($500).

Cooley, a member of the MOTIV bowling pro staff and a two-time PBA Tour champion, was the No. 2 qualifier off the morning squad with 937 for four games on the challenging 40-foot oil pattern.

Jozwiak led the squad with 968 while Andy Nichols of Rochester was the high qualifier off the afternoon squad with 919, including a 290 final game.

Cooley advanced through the eliminator rounds with games of 225 and 223 before his big last game.

He said he was in Western New York this past week learning more about the fellow professional Brad Angelo’s BowlU course at Brad Angelo Lanes in Lockport and also practicing for the USBC Masters, which gets underway on March 25 at Suncoast Bowling Center in Las Vegas.

Thirteen Genesee Region USBC members competed in the tournament with one, Mike Pettinella of Batavia, advancing to the eliminator rounds.

Pettinella, who was coming off a fourth-place finish at a 60-and-Over Tour event in Brockport the previous weekend, started with a 278 game en route to an 838 total on the afternoon squad. He was eliminated in the first round of the finals, earning $150.

Reaching the semifinals ($250 each) were Jon Keenan of Rochester and Dan Stafursky of Waverly.

Other tournament sponsors were Coors Light, Lambert’s Design Jewelers, Labatt Blue, Striking Effects Pro Shop, Casella and Toyota of Batavia. The tournament drew 76 entries.

bowlers
Tournament director Mark Brown, right, with the T.F. Brown's Scratch Eliminator finalists, from left, Pat Brick, Dan Vick, Adam Jozwiak and champion Sam Cooley. Submitted photo.

'Godspeed GS-9': Sgt. Sanfratello honored in service at GCC

By Howard B. Owens
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Ian Sanfratello recalled what his father meant to the community, to his family, and as a father who shared a love with his son for Sabres hockey during the funeral service on Saturday for Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello.
Photo by Howard Owens.

In a service inside the Call Arena at Genesee Community College, Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello was remembered as a man who was committed to protecting and serving our community, a man who loved his children, and as a man who enjoyed his work and his hobbies.

"Grandma Sanfratello stopped me last night," said Pastor Ryan Macdonald of City Church, who officiated the service. "She said, 'Come here, pastor.' She called me over for a beautiful moment, and she whispered to me, she said, 'Pastor, please tell the people tomorrow how much Tom loved this community. Please tell them tomorrow that Jesus gave us time for a moment, for a season, and then Jesus came, and he walked him through those pearly gates and into heaven.' She went on to tell me, 'Tell the people today that Tom passed doing what he loved to do. No greater love than a man show than that he would lay his life down for his friends. Please tell them, pastor, that Tom loved being a servant and that Tom shared his love as long as he could.' 

"I believe with all my heart," Macdonald added, "that Sgt Sanfratello understood God's love."

Sanfratello died early Sunday morning at Batavia Downs while trying to deal with two customers who had been asked to leave 34 Rush. One of those customers is accused of violently attacking the 32-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office, reportedly pulling a heavy chain from around his neck and striking Sanfrantello with it. The cause of death has not been released, but the suspect, Michael J. Elmore, 33, of Batavia, has been charged with manslaughter.

Saturday's funeral was attended by hundreds of first responders, including police officers from throughout the region and from as far away as New York City and Chicago.  There were also hundreds of members of the community at the Call Arena, including friends and family.

His sister Michelle Panasiewicz and his son Ian Sanfratello, along with Sheriff William Sheron, were the speakers.

Panasiewicz recalled growing up with her brother and watching him grow into a man who served his community and loved his family, especially his children, Ian, Kyla, and Alexis.

"Nothing made him prouder than spending time with them and watching them grow into the people that they have become," Panasiewicz said.

Growing up, as siblings do, Tom and Michelle had their differences, but as adults, she said, Tom was the strength of the family.

"When I had a question that my husband Joel couldn't answer, I'd call or text Tom," she said. "More often than not, he had the answer. We leaned on each other when we needed to, and we always knew that we were there for each other no matter what time of day or night without needing words."

She asked how she and the family would go on without Tom.

"I guess I have to learn that I have my family, my friends, my loved ones and we will continue to go on," Panasiewicz said. "This memory will live on, and all of us will continue to have a memorial of some kind. Or, like I said, his memory will never go away. He was loved by too many for his memory to ever go away."

sanfratello sheriff's officer of the year
Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello was twice named Officer of the Year for the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, including in 2012, when Gary Maha, right, was sheriff and William Sheron was undersheriff.
File photo by Howard Owens.

Sheron noted that Sanfratello dedicated his entire adult life to serving people, first as an EMT who put himself through training, working in Buffalo and Rochester, as a volunteer for the Alexander Fire Department, as a dispatcher in Batavia, before joining the Sheriff's Office in 1992 as a dispatcher.

"You knew, right from the beginning, there's something special about Tommy," Sheron said. "You know, there are individuals when you hire him, you just go, 'This guy is going to go somewhere. Tommy would take on tasks in the communication room that might have been lingering for years. But Tommy's energy, he just got in there and got it done."

Sanfratello collected Hot Wheels and Legos and attended conventions all over the country for collectors.  He loved children and kept a bucket of Hot Wheels in his office to share with children who visited the office, either with department family members or when caught up in some serious situation.

It's no surprise, then, that one of Sanfratello's favorite duties was helping to organize the Christmastime Shop with a Cop at Walmart.

"He loved doing that," Sheron said. "He loved kids. He loved helping people."

Ian, now himself a corrections officer who graduated from the academy top in his class, recalled seeing his dad in action at work and said he was clearly a leader in the Sheriff's Office.


See also: At Darien Lake, 'Tommy had it under control'


"He did try to steer everybody in the right direction," Ian said. "Even if he didn't see eye-to-eye with someone, he would always have their back and trust them with his life."

He said, "Deputies would tell me how he was the glue that held the department together. They don't know what they will do without him.  One way of looking at it, as I have the past couple of days, when he passed away was he was doing what he loved. He loved working overtime."

Ian recalled how they shared love for Buffalo Sabres hockey. He said he will miss their phone calls -- win or lose, they would critique the games, either what the Sabres did right or what they need to improve. 

"It won't be the same any more ," he said, but he hopes someday he will have a son to carry on the family tradition.

Ian closed his remarks: "Godspeed GS-9."


See Also: A full showing of support for Sgt. Sanfratello


  • To listen to an MP3 of the Last Call for Sgt. Sanfratello, GS-9, Click Here.
  • To view more photos from the service, Click Here

sanfratello funeral at gcc
Michelle Panasiewicz rubbing her hands together the way her brother, Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello, would when he was excited about something.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
While members of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office salute, the Keystone Club Police Pipes & Drums Corp. enter the Call Arena.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Hundreds of police officers from throughout Western New York and as far away as New York City and Chicago, attended the funeral for Thomas A. Sanfratello.
Photo by Howard Owens
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Sgt.  Kyle Krzemien and Sgt. Andrew Hale.
Photo by Howard Owens
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Pastor Ryan Macdonald
Photo by Howard Owens
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Colorguard entering the service.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Pastor Ryan Macdonald.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Sheriff William Sheron.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Corrections Officer Ian Sanfratello, son of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Officers praying during the service.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Sheriff William Sheron exiting the service.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Sheriff's deputies, including Patrick Reeves, leaving the service.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Fly over by Mercy Flight.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Photo by Howard Owens.
sanfratello funeral at gcc
Photo by Howard Owens.

A full showing of support for Sgt. Sanfratello

By Joanne Beck
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral Saturday at the Richard C. Call Arena at Genesee Community College in Batavia. 
Photos by Steve Ognibene

Several contingencies of law enforcement and first responders represented the region Saturday during the funeral service for Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, who died in the line of duty March 10.

Throughout the week flags have been set at half mast throughout Genesee County and in downtown Batavia, people have made memorial one-mile runs, the county court house cupola has been lit up in blue, a sheriff’s cruiser has been adorned with flowers by citizens in Sanfratello’s memory in front of the Sheriff’s Office, and countless condolences and heartfelt messages have been expressed via news articles and social media for an undeniable fallen hero.

A burial was scheduled to follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

Photos by Steve Ognibene

Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene
Images from Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello's funeral.  Photos by Steve Ognibene

At Darien Lake, 'Tommy had it under control'

By Howard B. Owens
sanfratello darien lake

These are file photos of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello working on one of his favorite details -- law enforcement at Darien Lake concerts.

In 2012, I did a "ride along" with patrols at the concerts to get a first-hand perspective of what went into dealing with all the issues that used to arise on concert nights.

While I had run into Tom on patrol before, working with him at Darien Lake was really my first chance to get to know him a bit.  He struck me as kind, professional, caring, and dedicated.

He took the job seriously without taking himself seriously. There was a complete absence of ego in his approach to enforcing the law.

When two young people climbed up a communications tower, I remember him being simultaneously amused by the folly of it and sincerely concerned about their safety.

At Saturday's funeral service for Sgt. Sanfratello, Sheriff William Sheron spoke of "Tommy" taking charge at Darien Lake.

"As we all know, Tom was the guy out at Darien Lake," Sheron said. "He was the first one there, and he was the last one out. He oversaw that venue for years and years. And again, when Tommy was on, I didn't worry about anything. Tommy, I knew, had things under control. We were dealing with tens of thousands of people and many, many officers. Tommy had it all under control."

Unrelated from Darien Lake, we received two more tributes to Sgt. Sanfratello to share.

Eric Olson, retired from the Sheriff's Office:

I’ve known Tom for a long time.  He is a true friend and law enforcement brother.  I will miss the 4th of July gatherings and the occasional conversations here and there.

From Deborah Shea, principal financial clerk, Sheriff's Office:

As we navigate through these next few days, I’ve thought a lot about my boss, my friend, my co-worker and most of all, my annoying “big brother” this week. 

That’s what comes to my mind when I think of Sgt. Tom (Tommy) Sanfratello.  We worked 50 feet from each other for 12 years, and we argued and teased one another just like brother and sister, even crying once in a while. He was so maddening at times, but at the end of the day, we were friends, and tomorrow was another day. And when he walked out of the office last Friday and said, as always, “See you Monday, maybe,” it was not supposed to be goodbye! 

I would sing along to the radio, and he’d say, “Don’t quit your day job,” and of course I’d say, “You wish!” He’d also say, every day, 10 times a day, “Whatever, Shea!” And on occasion, in typical Tommy fashion, he’d tell you, “Sink or swim!” I never thought I’d ever miss these words!

His presence In our office was larger than any of us could have imagined until we walked back in Monday morning and the loss hit me immediately.  

He had his quirks, his funny habits and definitely a Hot Wheels and Lego fetish, but it was him and who he was.  He loved to read and joke around and make his funny comments.  He loved having his annual Easter egg hunt and fantasy football league.  He wore many hats in our office and has big shoes to fill, and it will be a hard act to follow. No matter what he did in his life and career, his biggest accomplishments are his 3 amazing kids, Ian, Kyla and Lexi. He loved them more than life itself.  He was not a fall-all-over-you or mushy kind of guy, but he honestly had a big heart and really cared for the people closest to him, especially his family, friends and our department for sure. 

Thanks for your friendship and all the laughs.

You will be, as they say, forever missed and never forgotten!

Fly high GS 9

Finally, retired Batavia PD lieutenant James Henning had this to say about Saturday's service:

What a tremendous outpouring of support shown today for the family, friends, fellow citizens and coworkers of GS-9!

The entire wake and funeral service was incredibly organized and a fitting tribute to a great man and public servant.

GCSO, BPD, LPD & NYSP did a fantastic job of working shoulder to shoulder to make this all possible, along with the numerous fire departments and EMS in Genesee County.

Also, the entire staff of GCC for hosting this memorial and area restaurants for catering the gathering at the college afterward.

The police and fire agencies present were amazing from as far away as Chicago PD and NYPD.

R.I.P.  GS-9

sanfratello darien lake
sanfratello darien lake
sanfratello darien lake
sanfratello darien lake

Photos: Music in Education concert at Batavia HS

By Howard B. Owens
music in education batavia

March is "Music in Schools Month" across the nation, and on Thursday evening, Batavia City Schools held its annual concert featuring educators and students at all levels to celebrate the month.

The concern opened with the faculty/alumni band playing Sir Duke, a Steve Wonder hit honoring Duke Ellington.

Also performing are the High School Orchestra, the Middle School Beauty Shop, High School Guitar, John Kennedy Second Graders, High School Select Choir, Middle School Band, High School Rock Band, and High School Jazz Ensemble.

Photos by Howard Owens.

music in education batavia
music in education batavia
music in education batavia
music in education batavia

Anastasia, The Musical, on stage Friday and Saturday nights at Notre Dame

By Howard B. Owens

Notre Dame High School opens its staging of the musical "Anastasia" tonight (Friday) at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium.

A second show is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Saturday.  

Director Kate Edwards said of the show:

Anastasia the Musical is based on the animated film Anastasia, which is also based on the real-life story of the Romanov family. It takes place during the Russian Revolution when the Bolsheviks took over Russia and killed the Czar and his entire family. The rumor was always that young Anastasia, the youngest of all the children, actually lived. 

The musical is based on the animated film of the same name. The plot is that Anastasia did live, but her memory has been wiped. She now knows herself to be Anya, and she’s searching to find where she belongs. She looks for help from two Russian revolutionaries, who are also good-hearted con men. They are looking for a young girl who can pretend to be Anastasia because they want the reward money. They also need to escape Russia because the communists are taking over. 

Through a series of escapades and traveling from Russia to Paris, they discover that Anya is actually the real Anastasia. Meanwhile, the Bolsheviks are looking for Anya because if she really is alive, they want to kill her.

To see what happens next, you’ll have to come see the show!!

The cast:

  • Anya/Anastasia - Maia Zerillo
  • Dmitry - Rhys Tanner
  • Vlad Popov - Liam Berger
  • Gleb - Aiden Boehly
  • Countess Lily - Mia Yonkin
  • The Dowager Empress - Bri Johns
  • Tsarina Alexandra - Gracie Phillips
  • Tsar Nicholas II/Count Leopold - Joe Trewer
  • Gorlinsky and others - Billy Zerillo
  • Young Anastaia - Mia Yonkin
  • Policeman - Brodie Schie
  • Ensemble - Emma Elliot, Aubrey Plath, Sophia Plath, Hailee Adams, Korina Hodges, Claira Keppler

Tickets are $10 at the door.

The musical is also directed by Josh Pacino, with choreography by Jasmine Wessel and Lisa Antinore. 

NOTE: Due to photographer error, we have no photos from the rehearsal this week.  Our apologies.

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