Stories from

From the county Highway Department:

Meadville Road between Lewiston Road and Owen Road in the Town of Alabama will be closed beginning Monday, May 24^th  through approximately Aug. 30^th, for a bridge replacement project.

The road will not be passable to regular traffic or emergency vehicles.

The public will be notified when it reopens.

Press release:

HOPE Day, the annual 24-hour match challenge day of giving to benefit Appeal 2021, brought in $260,016 on May 14.

Matching funds of $57,212 added to this total increase HOPE Day’s grand total to $317,228, toward the annual Appeal’s $10 million goal in support of Catholic Charities and the Fund for the Faith. 

“The goal of HOPE Day is to inspire first-time donors and those who already gave to go above and beyond to help those most in need, in addition to rallying Catholic Charities’ supporters,” said Rick Cronin, Appeal 2021 chair. “Thank you, thank you to individuals and corporate donors who participated in HOPE Day 2021.

"Your contributions directly bring hope in the form of emergency assistance, mental health counseling, youth and family support services and more to our neighbors most in need throughout all eight counties of Western New York.”

To date, more than $8,017,161 or 80 percent of Appeal 2021’s $10 million goal has been raised.

The annual Appeal helps fund 57 programs and services administered by Catholic Charities across Western New York, along with several ministries that benefit all parishes through the Diocese of Buffalo’s Fund for the Faith. Last year, Catholic Charities’ programs and services helped more than 149,000 individuals of all faiths, ages and ethnicities. 

Donations to Appeal 2021 can continue to be made at ccwny.org/donation through June 30.

Press release:

A new statewide initiative aims to put a spotlight on how the tobacco industry has specifically targeted African American communities for decades with its aggressive marketing of menthol-flavored tobacco products.

The “It’s Not Just” campaign launches regionally and statewide on No Menthol Sunday -- today May 16 -- and is focused on ending the misconception that menthol is just a flavor.

It’s not just a flavor -- it's an injustice, and it’s killing Black Americans.

Smoking-related illnesses are the No. 1 cause of death in the African American community, surpassing all other causes of death, including AIDS, homicide, diabetes and accidents. Overall, 85 percent of African American smokers use menthol cigarettes, compared to 29 percent of white smokers.

The “It’s Not Just” campaign is intended to educate people across New York State about the injustice of menthol-flavored product marketing and promotion. The campaign uses direct language and powerful, emotional imagery of people who represent communities targeted by Big Tobacco.

It describes how menthol is more than a flavor, highlighting hard-hitting facts about the manipulative, aggressive nature of menthol tobacco marketing and its impact on African American communities. 

“It’s no accident that nearly 9 in 10 Black smokers, as well as rural youth, use menthol products, which are easier to smoke and harder to quit,” said Julie Calvert, community engagement coordinator of Tobacco-Free GOW.

“Our goal is to make our community members aware of how the tobacco industry aggressively targets these groups so we can reduce tobacco use and create healthier communities.”

Individuals can learn more about how to help fight the injustice of menthol-flavored tobacco products at the new campaign’s website: NotJustMenthol.org. 

“With the recent FDA announcement to ban menthol-flavored products, this campaign couldn't be more timely and relevant,” said LaTroya Hester, director of communications, The Center for Black Health & Equity.

“We know that the tobacco industry will fight this decision with the full force of its legal and marketing power, but we're not intimidated. The Center is excited about the launch of this campaign, and we are so honored to contribute to much-needed counter-messaging.”

While the tobacco industry has traditionally targeted Black communities with the marketing of menthol products, menthol is also a driver of youth initiation.

When New York State ended the sale of flavored e-cigarettes statewide in May 2020, it was a significant step toward reducing youth tobacco use. However, other flavored tobacco products, such as menthol cigarettes, continue to present an obstacle to decreasing tobacco use among young people and underserved populations.

Additional statistics:

• Menthol marketing
  • Menthol use among Black communities is a direct result of the tobacco industry's marketing practices and product manipulation.
  • Historically, the marketing and promotion of menthol cigarettes have been targeted heavily toward African Americans through culturally tailored advertising and messages.
  • Menthol products are given more shelf space in retail outlets within African American and other minority neighborhoods.
  • In addition to being heavily advertised and widely available, certain tobacco products have been found to be priced lower in African American communities, making them more appealing, particularly to price-sensitive youth.
• Menthol usage 
  • Ninety-three percent of Black smokers started by using menthol cigarettes.
  • More than seven out of 10 African American youth ages 12-17 years who smoke use menthol cigarettes.
  • Research indicates that menthol makes smoking easier to start and harder to quit. 
  • Tobacco companies add menthol to make cigarettes seem less harsh and more appealing to new smokers and young people.
  • Tobacco companies market menthol cigarettes as “smoother” than other cigarettes.
  • Menthol in cigarettes creates a cooling sensation in the throat and airways when the user inhales.
• Health impact
  • Menthol cigarettes are not less harmful than other cigarettes and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has found that they are likely a greater risk to public health than non-menthol cigarettes.
  • Black smokers smoke less but die of heart attacks, strokes and other causes linked to tobacco use at higher rates than white smokers.

Support available for New Yorkers who want to quit

For help quitting smoking or vaping, including free nicotine replacement therapy for eligible residents, individuals can contact a health care provider, and call the New York State Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-NY-QUITS or visit: nysmokefree.com.

Effective medications and counseling are covered by Medicaid and most insurance programs. 

Tobacco Free New York State and Reality Check student groups around the state have worked tirelessly to educate local communities on the tobacco industry’s use of menthol and other flavored tobacco products as a tool to target, attract and addict new smokers. Tobacco Free New York State, including the Reality Check student youth groups, is part of the NYS Tobacco Control Program.

About Tobacco-Free GOW

The New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Tobacco Control funds Tobacco-Free GOW to increase support for New York State’s tobacco-free norm through youth action and community engagement. Efforts are evidence-based, policy-driven, and cost-effective approaches that decrease youth tobacco use, motivate adult smokers to quit, and eliminate exposure to secondhand smoke. The program is administered by Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.

From Pauli Miano:

The Elba Betterment Committee will hold a chicken BBQ at the Village Park on Sunday, June 13 to earn money for a trio of concerts this summer at the park.

Tickets for the chicken BBQ are $12 and limited in number. Some will be sold the day of the BBQ, but the bulk must be ordered by June 1.

You can order tickets via the committee's Facebook page or they can be bought at:

• Chap's Elba Diner, 5 S. Main St., Elba
• Sweet Life Country Store, 100 S. Main St., Elba
• The Village Office, 4 S. Main St., Elba
• The Town Office, 7 Maple Ave., Elba
• Elba Central School District Office, 57 S. Main St., Elba

The three music "festivals" will feature EBS Music and More 2.0. Details for that will be coming soon.

Contact Pauli Miano at pmiano@rochester.rr.com with questions or to order tickets.

Press release:

The Annual Spring Basket Raffle fundraiser for Crossroads House will take place on Saturday, June 5th from 12 to 4 p.m. A presale will be Friday, June 4th from 4 to 6:30 p.m.

This event will be hosted at the Arc Community Center, 38 Woodrow Road, behind Notre Dame High School in Batavia.

There will be more than 100 baskets! In addition, we will have mega raffle prizes which are valued at $100 or more.

Masks will be required, and social distancing maintained.

This will be a “walk-thru” raffle, so you will be notified by phone on Saturday if you have won.

We’re sorry, we won’t be serving lunch this year, but we know that you’ll be amazed at the variety and high quality of our baskets.

We look forward to seeing everyone and are so grateful for the support of our wonderful community. We could not do what we do without you!

Photo and information from Cindy Canale:
 

Above, St. Paul Lutheran School Board members and students display some of the items to be auctioned Saturday, May 22.

Browsing for the annual auction will begin at 10:30 a.m.; bidding starts at 11 under the big tent in the St. Paul parking lot, 31 Washington Ave., Batavia.

Bring your own chair. Food trucks available. Proceeds benefit the school.

Press release:

Next week GO Health Departments will be on the road with Pop-up Clinics. The Pfizer vaccine is now able to vaccinate anyone 12 years old and older.  Clinics with Johnson & Johnson Janssen (J & J) and Moderna will be available for walk-in and registration. Pfizer clinics are by registration only.

“We are happy to be able to provide the Pop-Up clinics between the two counties,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health director for GO Health. “With the shift in bringing clinics close to where people live, work, and play and being more flexible with the scheduling now is a great opportunity for more people to get vaccinated.

"Being fully vaccinated, two weeks after the second dose for Moderna and Pfizer and two weeks after the single dose of Johnson & Johnson will help us enjoy the spring and summer activities with less restrictions.”

 

*************Our first Pfizer clinic opened to those 12 years old and older is Saturday, May 15^th from 9:15 a.m. to noon at Genesee Community College. There is still ONE open appointment window from 11:20 to 11:25 a.m.:  https://bit.ly/PfizerGCC*****************

 

Pfizer vaccine clinics are by appointment only. J & J and Moderna clinics offer walk-in opportunities; however, we encourage you to register via the vaccination webpage:  https://bit.ly/GOHealthVaccination  and choose the vaccine that best works for you. You can also click on the direct links in the grid below.

For those who do not have internet they can call the GO Health Vaccine Registration Help Lines:  

• Genesee:  (585) 815-7168
• Orleans:  (585) 589-3170

• These lines are ONLY to make vaccine appointments, are not able to answer COVID-related questions, and are not associated with either Health Department.  

  “With everyone looking forward to the summer and the looser restrictions we encourage everyone to get vaccinated now,” stated Pettit.  “There are plenty of options to get any of the three vaccines offered. For your health and the health of others, we encourage everyone who is able to be vaccinated to get vaccinated now.”

  If you are interested in making an appointment to get your COVID-19 vaccination, now is the time to do it locally!  

  If you are a business/church/organization that is interested in hosting a vaccination clinic at your location, please fill out the survey:  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GOHealthPopUpVaccineClinic.  One of our staff members will be in contact with you.

  For those who are seeking testing, both health departments provide limited free rapid testing for those without symptoms at the respective Health Departments. For Genesee County, a rapid test drive-through clinic is scheduled for May 18^th 1:15-3:15 p.m. at County Building #2, 3837 W. Main Street Road, Batavia.

To register for testing go to the GO Health testing page:  http://bit.ly/GOHealthC19Tests and choose your preferred clinic location.

Wednesday, May 19

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Genesee County 

Health Department 

3837 W. Main Street Road, 

Batavia

Moderna: Walk-ins & Apt.

http://bit.ly/ModernaGCHD

J&J: Walk-ins

Thursday, May 20

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

UR Medicine Primary Care – LeRoy Medical Associates

127 W. Main St. 

Le Roy

Moderna: Walk-ins

J&J: Walk-ins

Press release:

Data Update – Covering May 11 to May 14:

• Genesee County reporting 26 new positive cases of COVID-19. 
  • The individuals are in their 0-19s, 20s, and 50s. 
  • Seven of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.
  • Thirty-four of the previous positive individuals have completed their 10 day isolation and have been removed from mandatory isolation.

​

Orleans County reporting 16 new positive cases of COVID-19.  

• The individuals are in their 0-19s, 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and 80s.
• Zero of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.
• Thirty of the previous positive individuals have completed their 10 day isolation and have been removed from mandatory isolation.

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley is putting pressure on Gov. Cuomo to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) example and lift all mask mandates for those who have completed their COVID-19 vaccinations.

A proponent against the one-size-fits-all solution to New York’s fight against the coronavirus pandemic, Hawley sees no reason why the entire state should continue to follow the draconian enforcement of capacity restrictions and mask wearing if the federal government is ready to move on. 

“Western New York is ready to move on from the pandemic, and we’re grateful for the recognition of personal responsibility the CDC is returning to the people,” Hawley said.

“It’s been a long time coming, as the governor’s continued restrictions are seemingly less and less about science and safety and more about continued state control over every aspect of our lives. The people of New York are reliable, smart and trustworthy, and the governor must absolutely follow the example of the CDC.”

Hawley said he staunchly believes in leaving the responsibility and decision making to the localities.

“I’ve said from the start that part of the mismanagement of the fight against COVID is the fact that the state oversaw it all without partnering with local governments. These local institutions know the needs and capabilities of their areas better than the state, and they’ll be able to legislate accordingly moving forward.”

Press release:

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today announced that its Income Tax Call Center will be open until 7 p.m. ET on Monday, May 17, to assist last-minute filers.

Representatives will be available from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET at (518) 457-5181. Standard hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET on weekdays.

Before you call, however, consider that the most efficient way to obtain tax filing guidance and information, including answers to common questions, is to visit the Tax Department’s website, www.tax.ny.gov.

Visit our Filing season resource center for online resources to help you electronically prepare and file an accurate return on time—without the wait.

Since the filing season began in February, Tax Department representatives have answered more than 130,000 tax return filing-related questions. They expect to assist an additional 4,700 callers on Tax Day alone.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) commemorated National Police Week (May 9-15) by delivering a floor speech honoring Western New York officers. In addition, Jacobs participated in the Back the Blue Bike Tour this week, honored fallen Western New York officers at the National Police Memorial, and cosponsored legislation to protect officers.

“National Police Week gives each of us a chance to take pause and honor law enforcement for their bravery and selflessness while protecting our communities,” Jacobs said.

“This week was truly humbling, and I was proud to join my colleagues in thanking police around the country, but this recognition and gratitude should not be limited to one week a year. Every day our officers put their lives on the line to protect Western New York and our nation, and we should be mindful of that every day.”

Wednesday evening, Jacobs delivered a floor speech during special order hour to honor Western New York law enforcement officers for the tireless and dedicated work to protect our local communities.

On Thursday morning, Jacobs joined other members of Congress on a bike tour through D.C. to the National Police Memorial. There, members honored officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Jacobs laid a wreath at the memorial in honor of all fallen Western New York police officers.

In addition, Rep. Jacobs also cosponsored the Qualified Immunity Act (H.R. 288). This codifies qualified immunity for law enforcement at the federal level and protects officers from legal liability for actions committed on the job in good faith. 

“Our police have an incredibly dangerous job and continually show true dedication in serving our communities. I’m proud to stand with our brave law enforcement officers, and I will continue to stand with them in Congress,” Jacobs said.

Submitted photos.

Press release:

East Bethany -- Silverline Comics* has launched "STEAM PATRIOTS," a comic book series that bills itself as "An American Steampunk Revolution," cocreated by East Bethany native and Coast Guard veteran Scott Wakefield.

The Alexander High School graduate and his co-author, fellow veteran and Cleveland, Ohio native Rory Boyle, imagined their story-world years ago and are now seeing it come to life. Their creative team is rounded out with editing, coloring and lettering by Batavia artist Dan Hosek.

The three join the Silverline team of accomplished artists, adding their title to a long list of exciting stories. 

"The storytelling's very strong and the dialogue shines," said world-renowned creator for Marvel and DC Comics, Chuck Dixon.

Fellow comics artist powerhouse Gary Kwapisz added “STEAM PATRIOTS" gives us a colorful and unique look at the original Revolutionary War!”

“This is the first title we’ve done with any sort of historical connection,” said Silverline Editor Roland Mann. “But it’s part of who Silverline is when we make our ‘genre-spanning’ claim. I’m excited to be able to add it to the lineup. I think people are really going to like it.”

In fact, prerelease reviews for "STEAM PATRIOTS" are fantastic.

Accomplished actor, voice-actor, and creator of "The World of Steam," Matt Yang King, says, "Intrigue! Rebellion! Ben Franklin as a steampunk engineer?! Sign me up!"

And Image Comics author of "Moriarty" and "Red City" writes “ 'STEAM PATRIOTS' is like a sci-fi 'Johnny Tremain' -- giving us a likeable hero who teams up with real figures from history to fight impossible odds. It's a very exciting narrative, and I look forward to seeing where it takes us!”

"STEAM PATRIOTS" is set in a steampunk world where steam technology is in its infancy, and America is at war for independence from Great Britain. The story's young hero, Felix Ward (top image), has a mind like no other, and he must help Ben Franklin, George Washington, and other heroes defeat the British juggernaut.

Keeping with the Silverline Comics crowdfunding model, "STEAM PATRIOTS" is finished and ready to print. The debut comic book contains 24 pages of story and art.

Here's the link to the website for "STEAM PATRIOTS."

Here's Silverline's Facebook page; subscribe to their email list to keep abreast of all news Silverline!

The Kickstarter campaign for "STEAM PATRIOTS" started yesterday, May 13, and runs through May 30. 

#steampunk #revwar #comics

"STEAM PATRIOTS" is trademarked and copyright ©Scott Wakefield & Rory Boyle. All rights reserved.

*Silverline Comics a genre-spanning independent comic book and graphic novel publisher.

Below, the completed Page 1 of the first "STEAM PATRIOTS" comic book.

Submitted photos and press release:

Did you ever want to add some bushes or cattails to a painting but thought what you were looking at was just too busy or complicated?

Well it can be done simply and it doesn't have to be daunting.

The Batavia Society of Artists is hosting artist Kevin Feary (top photo) outside at DeWitt Recreation Area on Cedar Street in the City of Batavia at 6 p.m. on Tuesday June 8th.

He is demonstrating methods for plein-air painting  -- all different kinds of landscape elements -- bushes, reeds, a pond, and any general scrub you may see in a field or hedgerow -- using simple application methods and color mixtures.

All types of brushes, pallet knives, paper towels, your fingers or whatever tools are at hand can be used.

The live demo will be in Pavilion #3, the smallest one. Please bring a chair in case Kevin wants to get closer to the pond!

There is a charge of $5 for nonmembers. See our facebook.com/bataviasocietyofartists for more info.

About Kevin Feary

He has taken classes and workshops from local and nationally known artists throughout his career and has been honing his skills studying, drawing and painting. He creates commissioned paintings and murals, and paints from life through figure/portrait sessions and plein air.

He teaches plein-air and portrait workshops and demonstrates for art groups here and nationwide.

Feary is a member of The All Weather Gang, the Batavia Society of Artists, a signature member of the Genesee Valley Plein Aire Painters, signature member of the Rochester Art Club, Penn Yan Art Guild, and an associate member of the National Oil & Acrylic Painters' Society.

He has been juried into multiple shows and events such as: Finger Lakes Plein Air Festival 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019; Lighthouse Plein Air Festival 2016, 2017; Plein Air Funfest 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020; National Oil & Acrylic Painters' Society (NOAPS) Best of America Small Works National Exhibitions 2019 and 2021; a finalist in the 2010 Oil Painters of America (OPA) Eastern Regional Exhibition; and finalist Artist's Magazine 25th Annual Art Competition.

Feary has won numerous awards. His work is collected throughout the United States.

Press release:

Phase one of a two-part modernization project to expand United Memorial Medical Center’s Radiology department is underway.

The nearly $8 million project will add 5,000 square feet to the department, nearly doubling its size, and feature new technology and equipment. The result will be enhanced imaging capabilities that improve the experience for patients, their families and staff.

“One of Rochester Regional Health’s main priorities has been to expand access to care in the Batavia community,” said Eric Bieber, MD, Rochester Regional Health CEO. “That started with the Lipson Cancer Institute and it doesn’t end with the new imaging center.”

When both phases of construction are complete, patients who need imaging services will benefit from:

• New MRI Suite
• New 10-bed Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
• New blood draw station
• New dressing rooms
• New, welcoming area and scheduling office
• New cooling infrastructure supporting UMMC and its growth of services on the main campus

“The department is heading into the future with state-of-the-art technology created with patient comfort in mind and the ability to minimize scan times and improve image quality,” said Barry Rosenberg, MD, United Memorial Medical Center chief of Radiology. 

Philanthropy will be a major source of funding for this project that’s rooted in patient-first care.

“This expansion is a testament to both Rochester Regional and the community’s investment in local healthcare,” said Dan Ireland, president of United Memorial Medical Center. “This project is for you, the community, built by you, with your generous donations and support over the years.”

The first phase of the expansion is scheduled for competition halfway through 2022 and the entire project will be complete by 2024.

Among those taking part in the groundbreaking ceremony, top photo, not in order, were Dan Ireland, Dr. Eric Bieber, Joe Hanss, Dave Hetrick, Amanda Monaco, Amy Craib and Stephanie Guchone.

Photos by Howard Owens.

Dr. Eric Bieber, CEO of Rochester Regional Health

Dr. Barry Rosenberg, United Memorial Medical Center Chief of Radiology.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) introduced the Help Wanted Act yesterday evening to help address the growing labor shortages reported in Western New York and around the nation.

“The jobs report released Friday shows what we warned would happen – the President’s policies have disincentivized work and made it more lucrative for individuals to stay home and collect enhanced unemployment benefits than seek employment,” Jacobs said. “Now we are seeing the effects.

"Businesses cannot find employees to keep up with growing demand, restaurants are having to turn customers away when they need them most, and commodity prices are skyrocketing as organizations cannot find labor to support their supply chains. This legislation addresses the root causes of this labor shortage to get Americans back to work and support our economic recovery.”

“There are nearly 8 million job openings and 14 million Americans out of work. If the American economy is going to make a full comeback, we have to get folks back to work -- Congressman Jacobs' Help Wanted Act accomplishes that goal,” Rep. Dusty Johnson said.

“I have continually advocated for reopening our economy and getting people back to work,” said Rep. Tracey Mann. “At a time when small businesses and other employers are searching for workers, the federal government’s interference to normal order is not the right path. It’s time to take off the masks, reopen our businesses and schools, and get back on track.”

The Help Wanted Act was introduced by Rep. Jacobs and is cosponsored by Rep. Johnson (SD-AL) and Rep. Mann (KS-01). 

The legislation would accomplish three main goals. It would require every state to reinstate the “work-search” requirement for unemployment benefits. This requires unemployment recipients to show proof of a job search to receive benefits. During the coronavirus pandemic, this condition was waived by many states.

"In addition, the legislation strikes a provision from the CARES Act allowing individuals to collect unemployment if they voluntarily left their job. Finally, the legislation would prohibit the use of generic concerns about COVID-19 as a reason for turning down offers of employment.

Jacobs said “With more than a year of complying with COVID protocols, vaccines available to all adults, and infection rates dropping significantly, it is time for us to fully reopen and get back to work."

Submitted photos and press release:

The Western New York National Cemetery in Corfu is open; creating a nearby resting place for our nation’s veterans. A unique feature there will be the Avenue of Flags.

The Veterans Administration only permits official U.S. interment flags, also known as casket flags, to be flown here. Store-bought flags are not authorized.

This presentation of flying interment flags, lining the lanes in the Cemetery, will augment the reverence and prestige of this distinguished place.

Although there are more than 155 national cemeteries, only two others have this unique style of presentation -- using interment flags exclusively. They are the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in East Hanover Township, Lebanon County, Pa., and the Black Hills National Cemetery in Sturgis, S.D.

An interment flag may be donated -- by a family whose relatives were entitled to military honors at their funeral -- to the Western New York National Cemetery Memorial Council^(501c3) for display on the Avenue of Flags.

Many families have donated their flags to be flown in honor of all veterans and as a tribute to their deceased loved one, regardless of where the veteran is buried.

The annual presentation is set up in Spring for several Federal holidays and retired for the season after Veterans Day (Nov. 11).

Volunteers Maintain the Integrity of the Avenue of Flags

It counts on the aid of volunteer teams to maintain its integrity through the summer. Teams inspect the flags and when one becomes unrepairable or serviceable, it is removed and a new flag is put in its place.

Weather-worn flags are retired with dignity and their ashes placed in the graves of veterans who are interred at the cemetery in the future. Your loved one’s cherished flag will always remain at the Western New York National Cemetery to pay tribute to all those who honorably served their country.

Invitation to Donate Your Interment Flag

The Western New York National Cemetery Memorial Council respectfully invites you to donate your treasured interment flag to the Avenue of Flags.

It will fly to honor your loved one’s memory and all departed veterans. Also, if you would consider a tax-deductible donation to support the equipment and upkeep for this program, or wish to become involved with the Memorial Council itself, please contact us at the numbers below.

The Memorial Council is a 501c3 organization. Membership is open to all individuals, groups and organizations that wish to:

• support our mission, through the traditions of God and Country;
• associate ourselves together on special occasions to honor our living veterans;
• pay tribute to the memory of our military comrades and their eligible family members whose mortal remains have been interred on the hallowed grounds of the WNY National Cemetery in Corfu.

The Council will coordinate ceremonies and events with the Cemetery staff during the year and provide any support needed that honors the memory of our Brothers, Sisters and eligible family members.

Become a Member in Good Standing of the WNY Memorial Council

To become a Member in Good Standing with the WNY Memorial Council you may do so by sending in “Lifetime” membership dues of $30.

Checks are to be written to WNY Heroes with “WNY Memorial Council Dues” written on the memo line to ensure it is placed in the correct account. 

Mail them to: WNY Heroes 8205 Main St., Suite 1, Williamsville, NY 14221

This is also the protocol for any donations with “Flag Committee Donation” on the memo line. A letter of thanks will go out on our letterhead with WNY Heroes tax exempt number on it.

For membership information contact:

William R. Joyce -- WNY Cemetery Memorial Council President / Cochair Avenue of Flags Committee

• Genesee Co. Veterans Service Agency (585) 815-7905, veterans@co.genesee.ny.us

For Avenue of Flags information contact:

Mark Janik -- Chairman Avenue of Flags Committee

• Lakeside Memorial Funeral Home (716) 627-2919, veterans@co.genesee.ny.us

Submitted photos and press release:

Musicians of Note, a wall of fame to honor past Batavia High School graduates in music, will showcase the 2020 honorees in a ceremony at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 20, at the high school.

The selection committee for Musicians of Note received numerous outstanding nominations in January 2020 prior to the COVID-19 outbreak. Rather than have a virtual ceremony in 2020, the Musicians of Note committee decided to postpone the celebration until they were able to properly honor the 2020 recipients.

They are now able to hold the event live by following CDC guidelines and with limited seating. Honorees will be recognized with a video presentation.

The BHS Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble, Beauty Shop Ensemble, and the BHS String Ensemble will perform for the first time since December 2019.

A plaque featuring the honorees' accomplishments will be displayed on the new Musicians of Note wall at the High School.

The 2020/2021 recipients for the Musician of Note Award are: Ken Hay, Melinda Hay, Joseph Robusto, Harold McJury, Marc Schumann Ferrari, Patrick Jee and Alexander Davis.

Kenneth Hay (1982-2003) -- Former BHS Band Director:

●  Genesee-Wyoming Music Educators President;

●  Conducted All-County Bands in Genesee and Orleans County;

●  Pit Orchestra Conductor for 18 Batavia Rotary Club Productions;

●  Named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Club of Batavia;

●  Presented with the GO ART! Genesee-Orleans Community Arts Award 2003.

Melinda Hay (1983-2003) -- Former Elementary Band Director:

● Helped to organize the First Elementary All-County Festival in Genesee County;

 

 

●  Conducted an Elementary All-County Band;

●  Enjoyed starting many young musicians on their first Band instrument;

●  Created “Tour Day” for the Batavia Advanced Band;

●  Was honored to “pin” a flower on each graduating senior at the Batavia Pageant of Bands.

Joseph Robusto -- Class of ‘65:

●  Exemplified his Batavia High Yearbook designations of “Friendliest” and “Best Smile”;

●  Talented classical accordionist and disciplined competitor who attained the Alternate National Accordion Championship title as the youngest recipient at age 16;

●  Competed and adjudicated nationally and internationally;

●  Outstanding musician and dedicated instructor, a loving and supportive family man, a well-known local business owner and community supporter, and a friend to everyone he became acquainted with;

●  Amazing accordion and piano performer whose fine tuned technique and interpretative skills would captivate you by drawing you into the moving story he was telling through his music.

 

 

Herald McJury -- Class of ‘68 (inset photo, right):

• Guest Soloist with Genesee Symphony Orchestra;
• Batavia Youth Bureau Adult Volunteer of the Year;
• Drum Corp International Volunteer of the Year 1995;
• Buglers Hall of Fame 2016;
• Navy submarine service during the Vietnam War.

 

Marc Schumann Ferrari -- Class of ‘80 (inset photo left):

●  Salutatorian BHS Class of 1980;

●  Member of major label recording artists Keel and Cold Sweat;

●  Guitarist in the hit movies "Wayne's World" and "Wayne's World 2";

●  Two-time published author -- "Rock Star 101" and "Don't Dilly Dally Silly Sally";

●  Father of the most awesome daughter Sierra.

 

 

Press release:

The Alexander United Teachers, through the unanimous vote of the duly elected leaders, endorses Josselyn Borowiec for the Alexander Central School District Board of Education.

She is a dedicated, long-standing member of our school community with the leadership ability to guide the board through these uncertain times and represent the interests of students, families, and educators.

Press release:

The Genesee County Health Department will be hosting a FREE drive-thru anti-rabies immunization clinic on Thursday, May 20^th from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 E. Main St., Batavia). 

“We encourage all Genesee County residents to take advantage of this opportunity to make sure that their animals are immunized against rabies and that the vaccinations are kept up to date,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health director for Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health).

“Rabies continues to be a serious public health concern in Genesee County and is a preventable viral disease most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. Please leave wildlife alone and do not feed, touch, or adopt wild animals, stray dogs or cats.”

Vaccinations are free for dogs, cats and ferrets, but voluntary donations are accepted. Animals must be at least 3 months old. Each animal must be leashed or crated and accompanied by an adult who can control the animal. Limit four pets per car maximum. 

Face coverings are required and please follow all social distancing requirements. 

To save you time, please click here to fill out your registration form in advance. Be sure to print out two copies for each pet to be vaccinated and bring them with you to the clinic. 

The next anti-rabies immunization clinic in Genesee County will be held on Aug. 12^th. For more information, please contact the Genesee County Health Department: (585) 344-2580, ext. 5555 or Health.Dept@co.genesee.ny.us

Press release:

Today, Empire Access announced its participation in the Emergency Broadband Benefit program, a new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program. This temporary benefit will help to lower the cost of broadband internet service for eligible households during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The $3.2B Emergency Broadband Benefit program provides a discount of up to $50 per month toward broadband internet service for eligible households. Having a broadband connection is essential for households to gain access to jobs, healthcare services, virtual classrooms, and so much more.

“This program provides the much needed financial relief for families during these challenging times,” said Jim Baase, chief operating officer for Empire Access. “Our customers will still receive the same great speeds and high-quality service under the FCC Emergency Broadband Benefit program.”

A household is eligible if one member of the household meets at least one of the criteria below:

• Has an income that is at or below 135 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participates in certain assistance programs, such as SNAP, Medicaid or the FCC’s Lifeline program;
• Approved to receive benefits under the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision, in the 2019-2020 or 2020-2021 school year;
• Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current award year;
• Experienced a substantial loss of income through job loss or furlough since Feb. 29, 2020 and the household had a total income in 2020 at or below $99,000 for single filers and $198,000 for joint filers; or
• Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating provider’s existing low-income or COVID-19 program.

Emergency Broadband Benefit enrollment will begin (open) today, May 12. For more information on eligibility and enrollment, contact Empire Access at (800) 338-3300 or visit www.empireaccess.com/EBB