Stories from

Press Release:

All motorists, please be aware that the following streets will experience traffic delays on Monday, June 16, Tuesday, June 17, and Wednesday, June 18, between the hours of 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. for resurfacing operations:

Ellsworth Avenue

Elm Street

Grandview Terrace

Crescent Court

While work is being performed in these areas, local traffic will be permitted to and from their residence/property, but they should plan accordingly for delays. 

All residents and businesses within the work area are asked not to park on the roadway during the operation. All motorists who regularly use these streets are asked to seek alternate routes while the delays are in place.

This is weather-dependent work and will continue the next business day if necessary. Contact the Bureau of Maintenance at 585-345-6400 option 1 if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you for your cooperation.

Press Release:

Staff at Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel are preparing for a packed Father’s Day weekend of events.

At 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, Batavia Downs will be holding their first “Lucky Loop” race on their historic ½ mile track. Attendees are invited to see how many loops they can do around the track in one hour.  Awards will be given for most laps done by age category for individuals.  There will also be relay teams that can compete for awards as well. Cost is $35 and attendees receive $25 in Free Play, snacks and pizza afterwards. DJ Jickster from 97 Rock will be there playing music to keep runners motivated. A portion of proceeds will benefit Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and a local Veterans Group.

“We are excited to welcome Western New York’s Running Community,” said Byron Brown, President and CEO of Batavia Downs. “The Lucky Loop kicks off a busy Father’s Day Weekend.  We hope people will enjoy this new, unique event while also helping raise money for some great organizations.”

Attendees are encouraged to pre-register by visiting: https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Batavia/BataviaDownsLuckyLoop

On Sunday, Father’s Day, June 15, Batavia Downs will have both a Father’s Day Brunch Buffet and Dinner inside Fortune’s Italian Steakhouse.  Brunch is from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes an omelette station as well as other great items. Adults 18+ are just $29.95 while those aged 5-17 are $19.95.  Those under 5 are free for the Brunch. For those wanting to treat Dad to dinner, Fortune’s will be open from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. There are several Entrees available as well as a “Dinner for Two” package for $149 that includes $35 in Free Play per person. To see the full menu check out their website https://www.bataviadownsgaming.com/fortunes/. 

Reservations are highly recommended and can be made by calling 585-FORTUNE (367-8863)

Also happening on Sunday, is the Nickel City Wrestling (NCW) Father’s Day Fallout event.  Starting at 3pm inside the Park Place Events Center, the Wrestlers of NCW will be putting on a show that will include a match for the NCW Heavyweight Championship, Women’s Championship, Tag Team Championships and a “falls count anywhere” contest.  Tickets are available now at https://ncwrestling.booktix.com/. 

Alabama-Basom Methodist Church, 1392 Lewiston Road, Alabama. Join us for worship at 10:30 a.m. on June 15. This week, our sermon title is " Change" By Celinda McQuistion CLM Scripture reading Romans 5:1-5 and John 3:1-17. Come join us for Worship and fellowship after the service!

Ascension Parish - Roman Catholic Church, 135 Swan St., Batavia. We are open for Mass in the Church on Sundays at noon. We hope to see you there! 

Assemblies of God-New Covenant Chapel, 6690 Oak Orchard Rd., Elba.14058. We welcome all seeking a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ through His finished work on The Cross with The Power of The Holy Spirit. John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” If you want a small, close-knit church family and a place to make a difference, please join us. Worship Service is Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Bible Study Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and Thursday at 7 p.m. Contact us at (585)-757-6651 (585)-969-1528 or visit us on Youtube.

Batavia Assembly of God, 24 North Spruce St, Batavia. Join us for coffee in our café before our Sunday morning service that begins at 10:30 a.m. We offer "Movement Kids" (age 4 - grade 5) at 10:30 a.m. and "MVMT YTH" (grades 6-12) meet on Sunday nights at 7 p.m.

Batavia First Baptist Church, 306 E. Main St., Pastor David Weidman, where "Christ the Center, Love for All" is very evident to all who enter. We invite you to our Full Gospel Sunday services at 10 a.m.; The Thrift Shoppe is open Monday-Friday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., come and browse in our beautifully renovated space. Donations are accepted during business hours. You can also enjoy a light lunch at Lydia's Kitchen while you shop. Questions? Email: firstbaptist2002@yahoo.com. Call us at (585)343-9002.

Batavia First Presbyterian Church, 300 E. Main St., Batavia, invites you to join us for in-person worship on Sundays at 9 a.m. (Arise-relaxed with band music) or 10:45 a.m. (Sanctuary -liturgical and organ) or on Livestream via Facebook Live for both times at: https://fpcbatavia.org/  or https://www.facebook.com/fpcbatavia/videos/.

Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road, Batavia. Our mission & vision statement:  “To be disciples, we must listen, learn, lead, and love our way to God.” Reverend Wayne Mort leads our worship service every Sunday morning at 10 a.m. in the church sanctuary. Childcare is offered for children birth-3 years old and Sunday school is offered for children ages 4-14 years old. You can also find the service on Facebook. We invite you to learn more about Batavia First UMC by visiting our website at www.BataviaFirstumc.com.

Byron Presbyterian Church, 6293 W. Main St., Byron. Pastor: Rev. Michael Fry. Musical Director: Laurence Tallman.
Worship/Sunday School at 9:45 a.m. Communion Sunday. Scripture Readings: John 16:12-15 and Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31. Message: “Foundation of Hope”. Today we honor fathers and graduates!  We will take a moment to honor our young graduates. And there is a surprise for our guys as well as a special Father’s Day song! Don’t miss it All are welcome!

Calvary Baptist Church of Le Roy, 8703 Lake Street Road, Le Roy.  If you do not already have a church that you attend regularly, we would like to invite you to give Calvary Baptist Church a try.  It would be a pleasure to have you join us for worship and fellowship on a Sunday morning or at one of our other mid-week events. As a multi-generational congregation that enjoys our time together, our Sunday worship service typically includes singing a mix of both traditional and contemporary songs and hymns, a children’s message, and a sermon from the Word of God. Our Sunday worship service begins at 10:15 a.m.

City Church, 210 E. Main St., Batavia, invites you for our Sunday morning services at 8:30 and 10 a.m. with Kids ministry at 10 a.m. and Thursday evenings at 7 p.m.  Everyone is welcome to join us for worship and a message. We believe in doing life together and would love to do life with YOU!  You can also connect with us online at www.thecitychurch.com, through our Facebook page, The City Church, or our YouTube channel.  We do life together.

Corfu United Presbyterian Church 63 Alleghany Road, Corfu. Corfu United Presbyterian Church (CUPC) welcomes all visitors to come worship with us on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. in person or via our Facebook live stream led by our pastor, the Rev. Evan Wildhack. Our mission at CUPC is to connect with Christ, connect with others, and connect others with Christ. We offer children's Sunday School at 9:15am on Sunday mornings and youth group for 7-12th graders on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month from 6-8 p.m. The church also hosts the Corfu Food Pantry which is open on the third Saturday of the month from 9 - 10 a.m. For Lent this year, we are hosting a Lenten lunch on Wednesday, March 26 at 12 p.m. During Holy Week, we will be holding a special Holy Week service at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 17. Easter worship will be at our regular worship time of 10:30am with a breakfast preceding at 9:30am. For more information about the church, feel free to contact the church office by phone at (585) 599-6414 or via email at office@corfuchurch.org. You can also visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/corfuchurch. CUPC is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) 

Cornerstone Church of East Pembroke, part of American Baptist Churches USA, 2583 Main Road, East Pembroke. Our Sunday service is at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Glenn Bloom preaching. Bible Study is every Wednesday at 10 a.m. We are a small church and welcome new members. (585) 762-8721

Darien Disciples Church, 1951 Broadway (Route 20),  Prayer requests to Jerry at: jeromedmorrison@yahoo.com.  This week, June 15, our sermon title is “ Wisdom, God’s First Creation” led by Rodney Stringham. (CLM). Scripture Readings will be from Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 and John 16:12-15. Come join us!

Discovery Chapel, 315 West Main Street, Batavia. Pastor Ingrim Green's services are on Sundays at 10 a.m. "Let's Talk Real Talk the Gospel For Real Life." Visit our website letstalkrealtalk.org for more information.

East Bethany Presbyterian Church, 5735 Ellicott Street Road, East Bethany. Our Sunday morning worship service is held at 10:30 a.m. and is led by Rev. Dr. Shiela McCullough. Visitors are always welcome. You can find out more information on our Facebook page or by emailing us at ebpresbyterian@gmail.com.

Elba First Baptist Church, 31 S. Main St., Elba, is open for the main service in person at 10:45 a.m. on Sundays. For more information about our church go to www.fbcelba.net. The pastor is Michael Davis. Email: office@fbcelba.net / Phone (585) 757-2722

Emmanuel Baptist Church, 190 Oak St., Batavia. Join us for our Sunday service at 11 am or come earlier for bible study at 9:45 am.  Free coffee and fellowship!  Pastor Tom is continuing his preaching through the book of Acts.  Debbie Prosser is leading the choir in lifting up a joyful noise to the Lord every Sunday with practice on Thursdays.  We would love to hear your voice as well!  Particularly we need ladies who love to sing to join the choir!  Can't wait to meet you!

EverPresent Church, 4 Batavia City Centre, Batavia(off of Bank Street). Pastor Jason and Pastor Michelle Norton Welcome you! Our hours are Wednesdays 6 p.m. midweek service. Sundays 10:30 a.m. doors open 9:45 a.m. Children's church starts directly following worship. Children's church ages are 5 to 11. Counseling and other appointments are scheduled through the church via Office Scheduling. You can view some of our messages through Facebook or YouTube -EverPresent Church. Our phone number is 585-297-3155. Visit our Website for more information for up and upcoming events. Our beliefs, our vision and mission. www.everpresentchurch.com

Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St., Batavia. We offer two Sunday Morning Worship Services. Both services are live-streamed on our Facebook page, Grace Baptist or view it on the web at: www.gracebatavia.org. The first service is at 8:45 a.m. (children's classes available for Nursery - 1st grade). The second service is at 10:30 a.m. (children's classes available Nursery - 5th grade). KidZone for ages 4-5th grade and Grace Student Ministries (Grades 6-12) meet on Sunday Evenings at 6 - 7:30 p.m. 

Indian Falls Methodist Church, 7908 Alleghany Road, Corfu. We have our worship service at 10 a.m. on Sunday mornings, led by Rev. Karen L. McCaffery.  This week's message is "Be a Door-Keeper" led by Eric Klotzbach. To view our services online please go to our website https://indianfallsgmc.com/ for a link for Live Streaming. We offer FREE Respite Care on Wednesday, June 18 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; register by emailing redlady5343@earthlink.net. Join us for our 81st Annual Strawberry Social on Wednesday, June 25 starting at 3:30pm with our Bake Sale, 4pm Chicken BBQ, and ending with our Auction at 6pm.

Morganville United Church of Christ, 8466 Morganville Rd, Stafford. Take your father on a Father’s Day drive this Sunday to our country church at 10 am as Reverend James Morasco shares his sermon, “Leaf Boat.” Our God is still speaking church. Friend us on Facebook! or better yet, visit us Sunday.

North Darien Bible Church, 9768 Simonds Road, Corfu. We are open! Sunday worship service begins at 10 a.m. Children's Church classes are available for children ages birth through sixth grade, including a classroom for children with special needs. For more information, visit our website. You can also watch LIVE on our Facebook or YouTube channel. Join us from 9 a.m. to noon on the first Saturday of every month for our free community closet, full of clothing, coats, and shoes for all. (585) 547-9646.

Northgate Free Methodist Church, 8160 Bank Street Road (North Campus), Batavia. Life is made up of relationships — with our families, our friends, our spouses, and our kids. And while those connections can bring incredible joy, they can also come with challenges, heartaches, and questions we don’t always know how to answer. In our new series “This Is Us", we’re leaning in together to talk about navigating life’s most critical relationships — with honesty, grace, and a whole lot of love. Because God cares deeply about the people in our lives, and He offers wisdom and hope for every relationship we’re in. So wherever you are, whatever you’re walking through — this is us, and we’re in this together.

Oakfield-Alabama Baptist Church, 2210 Judge Road., Oakfield. Join us for Sunday School for all ages at 9:45 a.m., followed by our worship service at 11 a.m. every Sunday! Visit our website (www.oabchurch.com) for additional information about our church, our beliefs, upcoming activities, and past messages. Men’s and Ladies’ Bible studies also meet on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. on the church grounds. We look forward to worshiping and fellowshipping with you! Questions? Email Pastor Matt Ervin at mervin@tyndale.edu.

Oakfield Community Bible Church, 82 North Main St. Oakfield. This Weeks “Oakfield Community Bible Church”, Weekend Worship Service is at 10:30 a.m.  With Praise & Worship Music by Keith Burroughs. The morning message by Pastor, Timothy Young; entitled: “Removing The Frogs”.  Scripture: “Exodus 8:1-10” (NKJV). Our Adult Sunday School is at 9:30 a.m., along with “Sunday School through Age-16”. There will be a Time of “Fellowship” following our Worship Service! ALL ARE WELCOME!

Our Lady of Mercy (44 Lake St. LeRoy) & St. Brigid (18 Gibson St. Bergen) parishes; Parish Office - 44 Lake Street, Le Roy. Our Lady of Mercy Mass times: Daily Mass, Monday -Friday at 7:30am, Saturday 9:00am. Weekend Masses: Saturday Vigil Mass 4:30pm, Sunday, 7:30am, 9:30am and 5:30pm. St. Brigid Mass times- Daily Mass Thursday at 8:30am & Saturday Vigil, 5:00pm. View on YouTube and Facebook. Please visit the parish website (https://www.ourladyofmercyleroy.org/).

Resurrection Parish (St. Joseph church in Batavia). St. Joseph's Church masses are on Saturdays at 4 p.m. and Sundays at 7:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Daily Mass, Monday - Friday at 8 a.m. Confessions are held at St. Joe's on Saturdays from 3 - 3:30 p.m. Vigil & Holy Days to be announced. Holy Name of Mary Site (East Pembroke) 8656 Church St., East Pembroke. Mass on Sundays 11 a.m. and Tuesdays at 8:30 a.m. St. Cecilia Site (Oakfield) 56 Maple Ave., Oakfield Mass is celebrated on Sundays at 9 a.m. and Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

St. James Episcopal Church, 405 E. Main St., Batavia. Join us on Sundays at 9 a.m. on zoom, 10 a.m. in the church building, and on Facebook Live. Links and the bulletin can be found on our website: https://www.sjecbataviany.org/

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 1 E. Main St., Le Roy, is open for in-person services at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays. Communion will be offered to people in their seats and will only include bread. We welcome you to join us -- either in person or online. For more information, visit our website.

St Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6188 Main Road, Stafford. In-person service, including Holy Communion, is at 9 a.m. Sunday mornings. All  Are Welcome. 

St. Paul Lutheran Church, Batavia, 31 Washington Ave, Batavia.  This coming Sunday (June 15) we will celebrate The Holy Trinity.  The Sermon Theme: The Triune God Reveals Himself in Christ Jesus: “Truly, truly, I say to you, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death.” (John 8:51) Our Sunday service begins at 10:15 a.m. and can be viewed 'live' on Facebook. Communion is part of every Sunday service. Men's Bible Study meets every first & third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. VBS will run July 14-18, 1 - 3 p.m. Ages PreK - 6th grade are all welcome. This is a free event.
 

The Church In Alexander, 10540 Main St., Alexander. Join us for Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. weekly. For more information please visit our website at www.thechurchinalexander.com. We offer a Free Food Pantry for people in our community, please call ahead if you need items from our pantry. For more information on Programs and services please contact us at (585)591-1765 or by email at thechurchinalexander@gmail.com. Church office hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:15 - 11:15 a.m.

Trinity United Methodist Church, 75 Main St. in Attica, worships together at 10:45 a.m. on Sundays. All are welcome! Contact Frank White at uncleferter@msn.com for a ZOOM link or for prayer requests.

West Middlebury Baptist Church, 4950 West Middlebury Rd. East Bethany, Sunday service is at 9 a.m. Kids Club meets on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Youth Group (grades 7-12) meets on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. For more information visit us online at westmiddlebury.org.

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"Spiritual Connections" -- The Batavian will post updates to connect people with their places of worship, religious services, fellowship opportunities, and/or spiritual advisors, etc. There is no charge for this service.

If you have information to announce, please email: news@thebatavian.com

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R, C-Batavia) supported a bipartisan press conference to advocate for Assembly Bill A.8540, also known as the “Fentanyl Fathers and Mothers Act.” This proposal will require New York State to develop and adopt a comprehensive Fentanyl Education, Awareness, and Recognition Program for all public, charter, and private schools to implement for their students.

Hawley hosted a group of students from the Oakfield-Alabama School District who gave a presentation on this issue. The group gave a detailed synopsis on the rising number of mental health issues across the state and their relationship to drug and alcohol abuse. The students also presented several policy proposals, including increasing the salaries of the state’s mental health professionals and providing increased access to emotional support and recovery services.

In a time where parents statewide are losing their children and teens at alarming rates due to illegal use of fentanyl and similar synthetic opioids and counterfeit pills, Hawley believes this initiative will provide a comprehensive educational requirement for youth to learn about the potentially fatal consequences of such substances, thus saving the lives of countless New Yorkers.

“Protecting our young people from the dangers of drug abuse is one of the most important tasks we have as state legislators,” said Hawley. “I’ve met countless individuals across my district, and almost every single one has a story of someone they know who has been affected by the opioid crisis. Thousands of New Yorkers have died as a result of a Fentanyl overdose, and we cannot continue to allow this trend to continue as long as we have the power to do something about it. I’m proud to be able to support this initiative, and I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to take a stand as we work to end this crisis once and for all.”

Press Release:

The countdown is on! In just 12 days, the inaugural HomeCare & Hospice Golf Classic tees off at Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia on Tuesday, June 24. Golfers from across the region will come together for a fun, meaningful day on the greens—all in support of compassionate end-of-life care in our communities.

 

With 16 foursomes already signed up and just a few team slots left to fill, now’s the time to join in. Registration is $100 per golfer or $400 per foursome and includes:

• Greens fees & cart
• Lunch out on the course
• Dinner at the awards ceremony
• Swag bag
• Contests, surprises & prizes

This isn’t just a day of golf—it’s a chance to support critical hospice services in Allegany, Cattaraugus, Wyoming, and Genesee Counties. 

“We’re so excited to bring this tournament to Batavia and strengthen our support in the northern counties,” said Melissa Sullivan, CEO of HomeCare & Hospice. “It’s meaningful fun—with a mission behind every swing.”

Terry Hills, home to the Jim Kelly Celebrity Classic and ranked WNY’s #1 Public Golf Course, offers 27 pristine holes, a top-notch experience, and a beautiful setting for a day of giving back. 

This year’s event includes popular challenges like longest drive, closest to the line, and mulligans, plus two unique features:

Putting Contest – $5 for one ball or $10 for three. Sink a hole-in-one for your shot at $500 in cash and prizes, courtesy of Both, Branch & Hendrix of Olean.

Air Cannon Shot – Launch your ball like never before—$10 per shot!

Sponsors are helping bring the day to life. Recent additions include:

• Ontario Shore Federal Credit Union – Cocktail Hour Sponsor
• Ellicott Development – Tee Box Sponsor
• Turbo Machining & Howard Hanna Professionals – Hole Sponsors

They join ten other organizations already committed as sponsors, showing widespread community support for hospice care across all four counties.

While HomeCare & Hospice has hosted tournaments in the past, this year’s event is part of a new rotation that alternates fundraising locations between the north and south. Batavia is about a 90-minute drive from Olean and Wellsville—and golfers from the Southern Tier are encouraged to make the trip, tee off for a cause, and enjoy the fun.

“Hospice care touches every corner of our region,” said Sullivan. “This event reflects that—uniting people across county lines to make a difference.” 

Spots are limited! The event committee is aiming for 20 total foursomes, with just four left to go. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, including lunch, hole, swag, and specialty signage. 

To register or learn more, call 716-372-2106 or visit homecare-hospice.org. 

Swing big. Give back. Make a difference.

Press Release:

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge will offer for bid 85 acres of grassland hay in two fields, each 50 and 35 acres. The Refuge annually provides approximately 1100 acres of grassland habitat for migratory birds and resident wildlife. Active management of these grasslands is necessary to provide the highest quality nesting and migration habitat. 

The Refuge haying program helps in this management process by reducing encroachment of broadleaf weeds and shrubs.

Hay will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with the highest bid per field. Sealed bids will be accepted until close of business (COB) on Thursday, July 3. 

An official Bid Sheet, available from the Refuge headquarters, is required to make a bid. Completed Bid Sheets can be mailed to the Refuge headquarters at 1101 Casey Road, Basom, and must contain all the information requested.

If you have any questions about the haying program or would like to see the fields, please call Paul Hess at 585-948-5445 ext. 7032.

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge is located midway between Rochester and Buffalo, and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Press Release:

Rochester Regional Health (RRH) teamed up with Batavia-area Girl Scouts to offer a Fun Patch educational event at United Memorial Medical Center (UMMC). Over a dozen Girl Scouts ages 6–12 earned the RRH Stroke Superstar patch by learning what to watch for when it comes to strokes and how to call for help. 

The girls received a behind-the-scenes tour of UMMC, had an up-close look at state-of-the-art medical equipment and the inside of an ambulance, and met real-life healthcare heroes. The girls also donated blankets they made to the Lipson Cancer Center to be given to cancer patients and family members.

Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States suffers a stroke. Since 1990, incidences of stroke in people aged 49 and under have steadily increased. Healthcare workers noted that children were often present when a caregiver experienced a stroke, making it essential for all ages to recognize the signs and know how to engage Emergency Medical Services quickly.

Rochester Regional Health remained committed to the well-being of the community. Educating the public on life-saving health knowledge, such as recognizing the signs of stroke, was one of many ways RRH partnered with the community to promote better health outcomes.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

This fall, Genesee Community College's Business and Employee Skills Training (BEST) Center will offer hands-on training in two in-demand skilled trades: Welding and Plumbing. Evening classes begin on Sept. 2 and are designed to accommodate the schedules of working adults.

 

"Students will be awarded an industry-recognized credential upon completion of the training," according to Jennifer Wakefield, executive director of Workforce Development at The BEST Center. "We are proud to offer these short-term programs that open doors to long-term career opportunities."

The Welding Fundamentals Program equips students with essential skills for immediate entry into the workforce. The curriculum encompasses a wide range of techniques, including basic gas and arc welding, gas metal arc welding (MIG), shielded metal arc welding (SMAW/stick), gas tungsten arc welding (TIG), and flux-cored arc welding (FCAW). Students will also learn the principles of industrial safety, equipment setup and operation, as well as shop safety protocols.

Welding instruction will be led by Sal Bonafide, a GCC instructor with over 15 years of experience in the industry. Bonafide is eager to begin working with a new cohort of welding students: "Being able to work with students across different generations and disciplines is something I've always worked hard at; I can't wait to share my knowledge and experience with a new generation of welders."

The Plumbing Certificate Program prepares students for entry-level employment in the residential plumbing trade. The training includes a strong foundation in plumbing theory and hands-on instruction in areas such as safety procedures, tool and material use, pipe fitting, fixture installation, and system maintenance. Students will also complete the OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety training.

Instruction is provided by Walter Szczesny, a lifelong Batavia resident and Master Plumber who has owned and operated WTS Plumbing since 1993. Szczesny brings a lifetime of experience to share with his students: "I am excited to take my 45 years of knowledge and experience in the plumbing industry and pass it on to the next generation of plumbers with the skills needed to succeed in the field."

The BEST Center at Genesee Community College is the recognized regional leader in workforce development, offering targeted seminars, workshops, and training programs to strengthen both individuals and businesses throughout the GLOW region. To learn more about the BEST Center's offerings, please visit our Technical Programs page.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R, C-Batavia) is holding his Annual New York State Assembly Summer Reading Challenge to help encourage good reading habits and continued learning this summer. This year's theme is “Color Our World,” in cooperation with Summer Reading at New York Libraries. All students in grades K through 7 living in the 139th Assembly District during the 2024-2025 school year are eligible.

Students who pledge and complete reading for at least 15 minutes each day for at least 40 days during the months of July and August will be presented a New York State Excellence in Reading Certificate from Hawley.

“I’m excited to announce this challenge for the kids in our communities,” Hawley said, “Reading is an incredibly important part of any child’s education, and I hope this challenge will instill the value of learning in them. I know this is a great opportunity for our kids, and it will be a great way to kick off the summer!”

Any parents and guardians who would like to enroll their child in the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge may fill out the following registration form: https://forms.gle/1zttcs7m6Y8ioGS57.

You can watch Assemblyman Hawley’s full video announcement here.

Press Release:

HomeCare & Hospice is proud to welcome four new team members serving the Batavia and Arcade areas: Jennifer Byroads, Daythin Hamilton, Samantha Schiavi, and Roberta LaDue. Each brings compassion, experience, and a unique personal touch
to the organization’s mission of caring for individuals and families in their most vulnerable moments. 

 

“We’re excited to welcome these talented individuals to our team,” said Melissa Sullivan, CEO of HomeCare & Hospice. “Their dedication and heart for service reflect the values we strive to bring to every patient and family. We know they will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”

Jennifer Byroads joins as an Administrative Assistant in Batavia. With more than 25 years of experience in medical offices spanning primary care, pediatrics, psychology, and community outreach, Jennifer says joining HomeCare & Hospice was “a natural fit.” 

“I saw this as an opportunity to be part of a great team that helps patients and families through maybe their greatest time of need,” Jennifer said. 

Jennifer lives in Batavia with her husband, and together they enjoy cheering on the Buffalo Bills, cooking, and spending time with their three adult daughters. 

Daythin Hamilton, based in both Batavia and Arcade, also steps into an Administrative Assistant role. A Florida native now living in Attica, Daythin brings years of nonprofit and administrative experience from her work at Buffalo City Mission. 

“I enjoy working with people and connecting them to needed services,” Daythin said. “Every day brings something new, and I’m glad to help individuals and families get the support they need.”

Outside of work, Daythin enjoys embroidery, crocheting, painting, and audiobooks.  

Samantha Schiavi joins as an LPN Specialist based in Batavia. With her medical background and passion for nursing, Samantha will play a critical role in delivering compassionate care to patients and supporting their families.

Roberta LaDue, a new Home Health Aide in Batavia, brings a warm and nurturing spirit to her role. She lives in Batavia with her two daughters and boyfriend and says her caregiving comes from the heart.

“I have always loved taking care of friends and family,” Roberta shared. “I care for my patients like they’re my own.” 

She enjoys family time, walking, baking, and is especially proud of her daughters, both of whom are honor roll students.

HomeCare & Hospice provides compassionate care for individuals with advanced illness and those facing end-of-life. Serving Allegany, Cattaraugus, Genesee, and Wyoming counties, HCH offers both home care and hospice services tailored to meet the needs of patients and families with dignity and comfort.  For more information, please call 585-343-7596, visit homecare-hospice.org, or email snegron@homecare-hospice.org.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

Go Art is thrilled to announce the opening of three captivating new exhibitions, featuring the diverse talents of the Genesee region BOCES Graphic Arts students, Matthew Fox, and one of GO Art’s staff members, Jodi Fisher. Join us at GO Art for the opening reception on June 19, from 6 to 8 p.m.

On display in our Oliver’s Gallery is the exhibit "Through a Lens,&" featuring the work of photographer and poet Jodi Fisher, a collection of nature photography showcasing some of her recent work.

Jodi invites the public to see her raw, unaltered photographs, which bring into focus how random things can be intensely interesting, especially when light, shadows, and angles come into play. Everyone who views this body of work will agree that Jodi successfully achieved her intention to transform the simple and sometimes mundane subject matter into an art piece.

Jodi says, “Each photograph captures not only what I see at any given moment, but it also tells a story about how simply looking at something from a different angle changes the whole feeling and mood of the piece”.

Contemporary painter Matthew Fox's collection offers the public a contemplative introspection in his exhibition, so aptly titled “Beyond Boundaries: Form and Fantasy.” 

Matt says, “In my work, I explore the convergence of the visceral and the ethereal through bold color relationships and symbolic imagery. My paintings oscillate between representational and abstract forms, creating visual narratives that examine our relationship with both the microscopic world within us and the vast cosmos beyond."

Matt Fox (b. 1985) is a contemporary painter based in Batavia, New York. Working primarily in acrylics, Fox creates vibrant, symbolically rich compositions that bridge the gap between scientific understanding and emotional experience.

Featured in the Rotary Gallery are over 50 art pieces created by Genesee Valley BOCES Graphic Arts Students. Their work explores the impact of color use in art and its effect on our emotions. The public will see diverse interpretations of this subject through the eyes of our young graphic artists.

GO Art! invites the public to immerse themselves in these three new exhibitions and support our talented artists.

Both Matt and Jodi will give brief artists’ talks at 6:30 p.m. during the reception. Justin Reynolds will provide live music. 

As always, all exhibition receptions are FREE to the public, but the experience is invaluable. For more information, please contact GO ART! at 585-343-9313.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

On Tuesday, June 3, the Batavia City School District proudly hosted its 2025 Athletic Awards and Senior Signing Event at the Frank E. Owen Auditorium at Batavia High School. For the first time, the District combined its annual athletic awards with its senior college signing ceremony, bringing families, coaches, and the community together for a powerful evening of student-athlete recognition.

Led by Director of Health, Physical Education, and Interscholastic Sports, Joel Reed, the event honored dozens of Batavia student-athletes for their exceptional dedication, performance, leadership, and sportsmanship throughout the school year.

Award Recipients:

Batavia Coaches Association Outstanding Achievement Award - Ava Anderson, Mason Bellamy, Mallory Boyce, Grant Gahagan, Cameron Garofalo, Zailen Griffin, Jenna Higgins, Nate Kinsey, Cooper Konieczny, Sofia Lawrence, Jaimin Macdonald, Campbell Riley, Ella Shamp, Sheldon Siverling, Madeline Smith, Neveah Thomas, Amelia Tripp, Ava Wierda, E'Nhazje Carter, Karizma Wescott, Adyson O'Donnell, Keagan Calmes, Anna DiRisio, London Graham, Jamari Irvin, Karvel Martino, Ja'Lon Richardson, Isaac Varland

Awards of Excellence - Ava Anderson, Cooper Banser, Joshua Barone, Madeline Bellamy, Kylee Brennan, Jeremiah Childs, Greyson Fix, William Fulton, Grant Gahagan, Cameron Garofalo, London Graham, Zailen Griffin, Hassan Harris, Jamari Irvin, Cooper Konieczny, Jaimin Macdonald, Jameson Motyka, Campbell Riley, Jon Smith Jr., Justin Smith, Ashlyn Spring-Nicometo, Trevor Tryon

Varsity Club Award - Abigail Bestine, Zailen Griffin, Talyn Kennedy, Kelsey Kirkwood, Jon Smith Jr., Justin Smith, Lillian Emerson, Cooper Banser, Gavynn Trippany, Trevor Tryon

Outstanding Physical Education Student Award - Austin Costrino Jr., Ashlyn Spring-Nicometo

Maddie Bartz Cheer Memorial Award - Payton Vickery

Dr. Pierce Sportsmanship Award - Ava Wierda, Dillon Hale (accepted posthumously by Dillon’s parents, Diane and Larry Hale)

Burk Family Scholarship for Excellence in Track & Community Service - Cameron Garofalo

Burk Family Scholarship for Excellence in Football & Community Service - Greyson Fix

Thomas Ricci Memorial Scholarship - Grant Gahagan

Jason Gioia Memorial Scholarship - Brady Mazur

Project Play WNY Multisport Athletic Award - Madden Legler, Alyssa Turner

Daniel Van Detta Memorial Scholarship - Bronx Buchholz

United States Air Force Scholar Athlete - Jakob Hutchins, Kylee Brennan

United States Army Reserve National Scholar Athlete - William Fulton, Madeline Bellamy

United States Navy Outstanding Athlete Award - Cooper Konieczny, Nicole Doeringer

United States Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award - Samuel Pies, Roan Finn

1947 Club Athletics Award - Carter Mullen, Jaimin Macdonald

Batavia Lions Club Athletic Award - Cameron Garofalo

Batavia Coaches Association Scholar Athlete Award - Jeremiah Childs, Ava Anderson

Batavia Coaches Association Athlete of the Year - Jameson Motyka, Campbell Riley

Senior College Athletic Signings:

• Bronx Buchholz: Monroe Community College (Baseball)
• Nicole Doeringer: St. John Fisher University (Women’s Ice Hockey)
• Greyson Fix: Alfred State (Football)
• Grant Gahagan: SUNY Geneseo (Men’s Indoor/Outdoor Track & Field)
• Cameron Garofalo: SUNY Geneseo (Men’s Indoor/Outdoor Track & Field, Cross Country)
• Brady Mazur: SUNY Broome Community College (Baseball)
• Carter Mullen: Alfred University (Football)
• Sheldon Siverling: Clemson University (Men’s Indoor/Outdoor Track & Field)
• Alyssa Turner: Alfred State (Women’s Soccer)
• Ava Wierda: Roberts Wesleyan University (Women’s Indoor/Outdoor Track & Field)

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

On Pentecost Sunday (June 8) Buffalo Catholic Diocese Bishop Michael Fisher bestowed the gifts of the Holy Spirit upon Confirmation candidates from Resurrection (Batavia and Oakfield,) Ascension (Batavia) and Our Lady of Mercy, St. Brigid (Le Roy and Bergen) Parishes at St. Joseph's Cathedral in Buffalo, completing their full initiation into the Catholic Church.

Congratulations and God bless!

Submitted photos.