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Press Release:

The Law Street Yard Waste Station will open for the season on Monday, April 14, for City Residents.

The station will be open from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, until Daylight Savings Time in November when operating time will change to 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The station will be closed on the following dates: 

• May 26 (Memorial Day)
• July 4 (Independence Day)
• September 1 (Labor Day)
• November 27th (Thanksgiving)

The Yard Waste Station will close for the season in early December.

City residents may bring yard waste material (grass, leaves and limbs) to the Law Street Yard Waste Station as there is no spring curb side pickup of these materials. 

The following items cannot be accepted at the station:

• Tree stumps, building materials, rock, fill (soil and stone) other debris. Yard waste shall be free of trash (paper, plastic, bottles, cans...etc.), as this material cannot be processed.

Use Law Street entrance to enter and exit the City Yard Waste Station only.

Press Release:

The Batavia Muckdogs are excited to announce their next five signings for the 2025 season.

Some new faces join the Muckdogs as well as some local western NY talent. 1B – Connor Gibbs, LHP -Evin Hollandsworth, OF & Lockport Native – Brayden Hy, INF – Jackson Inman & INF – Grady Lacourciere join the Dogs this summer at Dwyer Stadium.

Connor Gibbs is a 6’3 first baseman from Helena, AL, currently playing at Bevill State Community College. A consistent presence at the plate, Connor delivered an impressive .316 batting average last season across 48 games and 155 at-bats.

Evin Hollandsworth is a 6’2 freshman pitcher at Saddleback College from Dana Point, CA. Before committing to baseball full-time, Evin was a standout dual-sport athlete while attending Dona Hill High School, excelling in both football and baseball. 

Brayden Hy is a 5’9 freshman outfielder from Lockport, currently playing at Canisius University. Before joining the Golden Griffins, he was a standout player at Royalton Hartland High School, where he posted an impressive .417 batting average, recorded 108 hits, including 9 home runs, and 94 RBIs.

Jackson Inman is a 6’1 freshman infielder from Damascus, MD, making a strong impact in his debut collegiate season. He is currently hitting .346 on the season while adding power with three home runs with 25 RBIs.

Grady Lacourciere is a 6’2 freshman infielder from Lyme, CT, attending Hofstra University where he has started pitching. Bringing an impressive high school resume to the collegiate level, a standout athlete at Lyme-Old Lyme High School, he played four years of baseball and two years of football, showcasing his versatility and athleticism.

Opening Day is Saturday May 31 at 6:30 p.m. vs the Elmira Pioneers with free post-game fireworks. If you are someone you know has interest in sponsoring the Muckdogs, season ticket information, hosting a group event or picnic please contact General Manager Marc Witt (mwitt.canusa@gmail.com). The Muckdogs full schedule is available online at www.canusamuckdogs.com.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

To bring awareness to sex and labor trafficking, Genesee County Safe Harbour will host a “Sunrise Breakfast” on Wednesday, May 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Main Street 56 Theatre (City Centre, 56 Main St, Batavia). 

This free event is open to the public and aims to enhance awareness and contribute to the prevention of sex and labor trafficking in our county. 

Event Highlights:

• Free breakfast catered by Alabama Hotel
• Keynote Speakers: Kait Gannon- Survivor, Advocate, Podcaster, Medical Social Worker & Mother accompanied with Laurie Krull- LCSW-R Clinical Social Worker, Podcaster, & Healer.
• Kait & Laurie will discuss, “The Ugly Truth About the Girl Next Door”.
• Opening & Closing Remarks- Presented by the Genesee County Youth Bureau and the Genesee County Safe Harbour.

Registration: 

This event is free to attend, and breakfast will be provided at no cost. Registration is required to attend as seating is limited. All RSVPs are due to the Genesee County Youth Bureau by Friday, April 25. To register, please contact Genesee County Youth Bureau at Genesee.Youthbureau@dfa.state.ny.us or 585-344-3960.

For additional information, contact Genesee County Youth Bureau at Genesee.Youthbureau@dfa.state.ny.us or (585)344-3960.

Press Release:

There will be over 5,000 eggs hidden in the park, spread out over three age groups, (0-3), (4-7), and (8-10). There will be 3 Golden Prize Eggs in every age group, where the lucky boy or girl who finds a Golden Egg will receive a large Oliver’s Chocolate Easter Bunny. The Easter Bunny will be making an appearance and available for photos.

In addition, an event that started a few years ago and continues to be a favorite with families is the daily hidden Golden Easter Egg at Centennial Park, starting this Friday, April 11, and running for 7 days until April 17. 

Inside the Golden Egg are instructions on how to take the Golden Egg to the big Easter Egg Hunt on April 19 to claim a large Oliver’s Chocolate Easter Bunny. The Golden Egg will be hidden at different times each day over the course of the seven days to try and accommodate varying schedules for different families.  

We ask that families that find the daily Golden Egg please message the Batavia Kiwanis Club on Facebook with a picture of their kid(s) that found the Golden Egg so we can post on our Facebook page and alert others that the Golden Egg has been found that day. 

This is a fun, free, family event that gets everyone outside to enjoy the park and spend time together. There may be other Easter Egg Hunts in the area, but there aren’t any other daily Golden Easter Egg Hunts! Come on out and continue a tradition or make a new one!

Submitted photos. 

Press Release:

The first “We’ve Only Just Begun” Sr. Luncheon of the 2025 season will be Tuesday, April 15 at the South Alabama Firehall located at 2230 Judge Road, Oakfield. Lunch will be promptly served at 11:45 am.

Both guest speakers at the meeting will be from the Genesee County Economic Development Center. Chris Suozzi, Executive Vice President of Business & Workforce Development, and Mark Masse, President and CEO. They will be discussing what their organization does in the County; STAMP project in Alabama, Youth programs, etc. 

Come and bring your favorite dish-to-pass OR make a donation at the door!  Enjoy lunch and an afternoon with old and new friends. All seniors in surrounding areas are welcome. Contact LaNora Thompson at 630-888-8966 for more information.  

Press release:

Byron-Bergen set the tone early with nine first-inning runs, dominating Holley 18-4 in Holley on Friday.

Lily Stalica started on the mound for the Bees, delivering a strong performance. She allowed three earned runs, struck out seven batters, and walked three.

At the plate, Stalica went 3-3 with a double, four RBIs, three runs, and a stolen base. Natalie Prinzi was 2-for-3 with a double, two RBIs, four runs, and a steal. Ava Gray went 1-for-1 with a triple, three walks, and two stolen bases. Jill Weaver, Janessa Amesbury, and Lauren Gartz each had a hit, with Amesbury and Gartz driving in 2 RBIs each, while Weaver contributed three RBIs.

Junior pitcher Skylar Gallagher took the loss for Holley. She allowed four earned runs and struck out 1 in her one inning of work. Alexis Lujan relieved her, striking out three while allowing three earned runs over four innings.

Serenity-Ann Rath led the Hawks' offense, going 2-2 with two runs scored. Desiree McCormack went 2-3, while Gallagher added Holley's only other hit.

Byron-Bergen head coach Steve Ball praised his team, saying, "I'm proud of the girls for coming out strong and taking control of the game early. Last year, we often let teams back into games, but today, the girls played a complete game and earned a comfortable win. It's a step in the right direction, and I hope we can build on this momentum. Lily (Stalica) has been outstanding in our first three games, both on the mound and at the plate, reaching base 11 times in 12 plate appearances. Credit to Coach Ostrom and Holley—after a tough first inning, she really rallied her girls, and they played much more competitively the rest of the game."

The Bees will next play on Tuesday at Attica.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

Acclaimed journalist and podcaster Thom Jennings announces the release of Missing Man – The Vince Welnick Story, a six-part podcast series exploring the life and career of keyboardist Vince Welnick, best known for his work with The Tubes, Todd Rundgren, The Grateful Dead, and his own band, Missing Man Formation. The series, produced with support from Go Art! in Genesee County, features exclusive interviews with Laurie Welnick (Vince's widow), Fee Waybill and Prairie Prince of The Tubes, Todd and Michele Rundgren, Mike Duffy, Bobby Strickland, David Gans, Dennis McNally, and Scott Guberman. 

The journey begins in May 1985, when Jennings—then a young music enthusiast—encounters Welnick at The Treadway Inn in Batavia after a Tubes concert at Darien Lake. That fateful meeting sets the narrative foundation for a deep dive into Welnick's rise in the music industry, his creative genius, and his personal and professional challenges. 

A Career Spanning Decades, Told by Those Who Knew Him Best Each episode of Missing Man sheds light on a different phase of Welnick's career, intertwined with commentary and personal reflections about the four times Thom and Vince met.

Thom released the first episode on February 21, Vince's birthday. Three episodes are available, with three more slated for release over the next six weeks. 

While Missing Man celebrates Vince Welnick's music, it is also a deeply personal exploration of his struggles, including mental health challenges, industry pressures, and the isolation that often accompanies fame. Through candid interviews and archival material, Jennings crafts a compelling and humanizing portrait of a musician whose contributions remain underrated yet unforgettable.

How to Listen

Missing Man—The Vince Welnick Story will be available on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart, YouTube, and Amazon Music. Listeners can follow the podcast on Spreaker for episode updates and additional content.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) reintroduced legislation aimed at addressing reductions in Medicare Advantage (MA) access and benefits. The bill addresses reimbursement shortfalls to local MA plans from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Specifically, the bill allows CMS to adjust benchmark amounts based on local wage indices that have increased by 20 percent or more to ensure enrollees continue to receive comprehensive benefits and quality care.

Rep Tenney was joined in introducing this legislation by Representatives Elise Stefanik (NY-21), Nick Langworthy (NY-23), and Mike Lawler (NY-17).

In 2023, CMS made a needed adjustment to the wage index for Upstate New York hospitals, treating geographically rural and rural reclassified hospitals equally. This change led to wage index increases of 20-40% across Upstate New York. While this provided significant relief for hospitals that had been severely underpaid by the fee-for-service program, it inadvertently placed substantial financial pressure on regional MA plans, which are predominantly non-profit organizations. 

Because CMS did not account for these new costs in their benchmark rates for 2024, MA plans have experienced significant financial challenges that jeopardize plans’ ability to provide affordable, quality coverage to their beneficiaries. Without relief, health plans will be forced to cut benefits and increase premiums for seniors who can least afford it.

Last week, Rep. Tenney sent a letter to CMS urging the agency to reassess the ongoing misalignment between hospital wage index increases and MA benchmark adjustments in Upstate New York.

“Our community's seniors deserve continued access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. Unfortunately, the payment disparity has already affected local plans’ offerings and limited seniors’ coverage choices. By adjusting the benchmark rates to reflect the increased costs faced by our regional plans, we can restore MA options for our seniors and protect them from higher premiums in the future. This bill will ensure that Medicare Advantage plans continue to provide the robust benefits that so many members of our community rely on,” said Congresswoman Tenney. 

Press Release:

The Batavia Society of Artists is hosting artist Pat Tribastone on Tuesday, April 8 at Go-Art/Seymour Place, 201 E. Main St., Batavia, starting at 7 p.m.

She will be demonstrating Pastel Techniques. New members are always welcome, any media or any skill level. Membership for 2025 is $30 for a Single, $50 for a Couple, and $10 for a Student or Veteran. Non-members are welcome for a $5 fee. Light refreshments will be served. Tavern 2.o.1. is open for cash purchases. 

If you have any questions please call Teresa Tamfer at 585-506-2465.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

The Holland Land Office Museum (HLOM) is proud to announce the opening of three new exhibits in the month of April.

“Embossers and Painters: The Mason Family” is now on display through the end of the year. It features paintings from the members of the Mason Family, (Frank, Nina, Roy and Max), along with items from the F.E. Mason Embossing Factory. The Mason family created nationally known and recognized art, but also a business that allowed growing artists in Genesee County to express themselves with their creativity and their skills. The F.E. Mason Embossing Factory gave way to numerous locally famous artists. Charter members of the Batavia Society of Artists, art in Genesee County would not be the same without the Masons!

“Ingham University” is a new mini-exhibit featuring artifacts from the women’s university that spent much of its 65 year history in Le Roy, 1837-1892. It grew over time, graduated hundreds of students. It was the first women’s college New York State, and the first chartered women’s university in the United States. Though designated as a women’s university, men were also enrolled it its highly regarded Fine Arts program. Many of its alumni went on to teach at institutions like Wellesley and Vassar College. The exhibit features catalogs and bound histories from the 1880s.

“World War II on the Home Front: Propaganda and Rationing” will be opening mid-April and running through December. The Home Front was just as vital to the Allied powers victory in World War II. Poster campaigns and rationing in the United States, instilled by the government, were two of the biggest reasons as to why the Home Front was just as determined and motivated to win the war as the men fighting across the ocean! The exhibit features a wide array of propaganda posters as well as rationing items, along with other aspects of the Homefront.

Press release:

Byron Brown, President and CEO of Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel, presented complimentary tickets to William Joyce, Director of the Genesee County Veterans Service Agency. Included were tickets for each of Batavia’s Rockin’ the Downs Summer Concerts. 

“This marks the 7th year in a row that Batavia Downs has supported our local Veterans with free tickets to our summer concert series, “said Brown.  “We are proud to continue this tradition of giving back to local vets who have served our country.”

Tickets for the concert series can be purchased at BataviaConcerts.com.  Performances include:

• Friday, June 20 – Queensrÿche
• Friday, June 27 – The Allman Betts Band
• Friday, July 11 – Almost Queen (Tribute to Queen)
• Friday, July 18 – The Machine (Tribute to Pink Floyd)
• Friday, July 25 – Little River Band w/Ambrosia
• Friday, August 1 – Lou Gramm
• Friday, August 8 – The Commodores
• Friday, August 15 – Kansas

Over the last seven years, Batavia Downs has proudly donated over 10,000 tickets to Local Veterans.

Press Release:

The M & M concerts, a local tradition, began in 2009 and continued annually until 2019 when they were paused due to the Covid-19 pandemic. After a five-year hiatus, the concert series is set to return, bringing excitement to the community once again. This area has a rich history tied to the famous Drum & Bugle Corps, Mighty St. Joseph’s of Batavia, which dominated the state VFW scene and maintained a top 10 national ranking for many years.

This year's concert will feature a lineup of talented musicians from across the country. Performers will be traveling from Syracuse, Erie, Pa., Canada, Buffalo, Rochester, and Tennessee. Many of these musicians have previously played for national contenders and champions, and they are eager to return to the stage after the disruptions caused by Covid. This concert holds special significance, marking a return to a cherished tradition.

The concert will also support Crossroads House, a cause that holds deep meaning for the community. This event is a revival of the annual Musical Memories Concerts, which were known for generating extraordinary excitement in the past. Organizers are hopeful that this year’s concert will rekindle that same level of enthusiasm.

The event is scheduled for April 5 at Batavia Middle School, located at 96 Ross Street in Batavia. Doors will open at 5:15 p.m., with the show starting at 6 p.m. This year’s lineup is one of the best yet, featuring the All in Brass Band from Rochester, the Rochester Hit Men, Michael Noce performing Sinatra, the St. Joseph’s Brass Ensemble, the Hamburg Kingsmen Drum & Bugle Corps, musicians from BCSD, the St. Joseph’s Drum & Bugle Corps from Le Roy, and special guests “Brig Juice” from Syracuse.

For more information, contact Frank at 585-409-4364 or Crossroads House at 585-343-3892. Tickets are available for purchase at Valle Jewelers, Millennium Computers, and Crossroads House.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) attended a press conference today to call out Gov. Hochul’s administration for its decision to allow for the early release of certain inmates due to the staffing shortage caused by the governor’s decision to fire thousands of correctional officers for raising concerns about their working conditions. 

The State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) Commissioner Daniel Martuscello announced yesterday that inmates may be eligible for release if they are within 110 days of an approved release date and have an approved residence to live in. Hawley sees this as a slap in the face to the law enforcement community and a serious public safety concern.

“Gov. Hochul’s public safety strategy is beginning to sound like a late April Fools’ joke,” said Hawley. “Not only has she fired thousands of correctional officers across the state, but now she’s letting prisoners out of jail early to try to fix the problem she created. This administration has created a system of anarchy in our state prisons. This is unacceptable, and I will do everything within my power to ensure this policy is reversed and law and order is restored in our state.”

Press Release:

Six Flags Darien Lake, the Coaster Capital of New York, will host a job fair on Saturday, April 5, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Darien Lake Hotel (9993 Alleghany Rd, Darien Center) where you can apply, interview, and be hired all in the same day. 

From rides and food service to security and accommodations, there’s a role for everyone! Applicants must bring two forms of ID, will meet with our team leadership, and could potentially walk out with their summer employment plans in place.

To learn more about the open positions, please visit the Six Flags Darien Lake jobs page. These positions include:

• Food & Beverage Associates
• Ride Operators
• Lifeguards
• Sales Associates for Merchandise
• Park Services Attendants
• Hotel and Campground Associates
• And more!

Hourly pay starts at $15.50 for those who are 16 years of age or older based on experience, prior service, and position. Darien Lake offers competitive wages and amazing perks for its associates, including discounts on park food and merchandise, reward and recognition programs, exclusive park events for associates, ride nights, a cafeteria with discount meals, and free admission to any Six Flags park. 

“Seasonal associates are the lifeblood of our business and play an instrumental role in consistently delivering amazing experiences to our park guests,” said Christopher Thorpe, park president. “We offer competitive wages and unbeatable perks. We look forward to welcoming new associates for what I’m sure will be a FUN and exciting 2025 season!”

Press Release:

The Hemp Lodge is proud to announce a new partnership with the Little Free Pantry, bringing a community mini-fridge to our location at 10 City Centre. This initiative expands access to fresh, nutritious food for those in need, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the health and wellness of our community.

Through this collaboration, the Little Free Pantry will provide a selection of food at The Hemp Lodge, including fresh sandwiches, fruit, locally grown organic produce, and shelf-stable goods. In addition, we will offer hot coffee and tea to anyone who stops by.

At The Hemp Lodge, we believe in uplifting our community by supporting initiatives that promote well-being,” said Dalton Lamay, co-owner of The Hemp Lodge. “By providing an additional location for the Little Free Pantry, we are ensuring that more people have access to nutritious food when they need it.”

Community members in need are welcome to visit The Hemp Lodge Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to access the mini-fridge and pantry items.

Press Release:

As part of our ongoing effort to promote road safety and responsible transportation, the Batavia Police Department would like to remind the public about the laws and guidelines governing the use of electric scooters (e-scooters) and bicycles with electric assist (e-bikes) in New York State. 

Electric scooters and e-bikes are permitted on certain streets and highways, but it's essential to understand the rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all road users. 

What are Electric Scooters and E-Bikes? 

An electric scooter is a device with handlebars, a floorboard or seat, and an electric motor that can be powered by the motor and/or human power. Electric scooters have a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour on a paved level surface when powered solely by the electric motor. Note that it is illegal to operate an electric scooter in excess of 15 miles per hour.

A bicycle with an electric assist is a type of bicycle with an electric motor and operable pedals. There are three classes of e-bikes, each with specific characteristics and speed limits. 

Where Can You Operate Electric Scooters and E-Bikes? 

You can operate electric scooters and e-bikes on highways with a posted speed limit of 30 MPH or less. Additionally, municipalities can further regulate the time, place, and manner of operation of these devices. However, you cannot operate these devices on a sidewalk except as authorized by local law or ordinance. 

Remember to always follow the rules of the road, wear appropriate safety gear, and be mindful of other road users to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. 

If you have any questions or concerns about operating electric scooters or e-bikes in New York State, please contact your local authorities or visit the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles website for more information. 

Use hand signals to indicate your intentions to turn or change lanes. 

Avoid riding at excessive speeds, especially in heavy traffic or pedestrian areas. 

NY State Laws:

• E-bikes are considered bicycles and are subject to the same laws and regulations as traditional bicycles.
• Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate an e-bike.
• E-bikes are not permitted on sidewalks, except in designated bike lanes.
• Riders must yield to pedestrians and other vehicles when necessary.
• E-bikes are subject to the same traffic laws as motor vehicles, including obeying speed limits and traffic signals.

By following these simple safety tips and adhering to NY State laws, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable e-biking experience for everyone. Remember, safety is a shared responsibility, and we count on your cooperation to make our roads and bike paths safe for all users. 

If you have any questions or concerns about e-bike safety or NY State laws, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Batavia Police Department. Let's ride safely and responsibly!

Stay informed, stay safe!

Press Release:

The Batavia Muckdogs are excited to announce their next five signings of the 2025 season. OF – Luke Daddona, INF -Justin Espinal, INF – Blake Ewing, C – Cooper Fesh, and Former 2022 West Division Champion Muckdog & Media Native SS – Bryan Fry join the Dogs this summer at Dwyer stadium. 

Luke Daddona is a 5’11 redshirt freshman outfielder from Middlebury, Connecticut. In high school, Luke was a standout dual-sport athlete, serving as captain for both the baseball and football teams. As a senior, he played a key role in helping the Crusaders secure the Naugatuck Valley League title.

Justin Espinal is a 6’3 senior infielder at Thomas Jefferson University and returning for his third season with the Batavia Muckdogs. Last season with the Muckdogs, Espinal batted .253 over 26 games, providing steady defense and a solid presence at the plate.

Blake Ewing is a 6’2 freshman infielder from Columbus, Ohio attending Point Park University. A left-handed hitter and right-handed thrower, brings a strong presence to the field. He recorded his first collegiate career RBI on March 15 versus Davis & Elkins College.

Cooper Fesh is a 6’1 sophomore catcher at Keystone College, hailing from Bethal, Connecticut. A dependable presence behind the plate, he finished last season with an impressive .319 batting average while recording 214 putouts.

Bryan Fry is a 6’1 senior shortstop from Medina, currently attending SUNY Brockport. A transfer from the University of Toledo, he has continued to develop his game at the collegiate level. In 2022 he played for the Batavia Muckdogs, where he appeared in 41 games and posted an impressive .345 batting average.

Opening Day is Saturday May 31 at 6:30 p.m. vs the Elmira Pioneers with free post-game fireworks. If you are someone you know has interest in sponsoring the Muckdogs, season ticket information, hosting a group event or picnic please contact General Manager Marc Witt (mwitt.canusa@gmail.com). The Muckdogs full schedule is available online at www.canusamuckdogs.com.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

The City of Batavia is interested in applying for the Municipal Parks and Recreation (MPR) Grant Program, through the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation.

The MPR Grant will assist communities build new municipal parks in the state while also working to improve the natural, ecological, cultural, and recreational aspects of existing parks in municipal ownership.

Selection criteria for this grant encourage the participation of parks that show community need through the Disadvantaged Community (DAC) category. In the City of Batavia, this impacts the 5th and 6th wards and Williams Park in particular.

In order to achieve construction plans and a grant application that is fully representative of the community’s need, the city is encouraging residents to complete the Batavia Park Improvement Survey. This highlights the overall community use of park resources, desired improvements, and other possible resources that could be built on municipal land with Williams Park as a specific focal point.

A link to the city’s survey can be found here, all feedback is greatly appreciated. 

“Community parks are a key facet of developing a community that people will want to work, live and play in. The City continues to work on enhancing our municipal parks and this grant will allow us to make needed upgrades at Williams Park. This grant coupled with our proposed Universal Playground at Austin Park will be a great step towards improving our park system.  We appreciate the feedback from community members and hope you take the time to participate in the survey.” Said Erik Fix, Assistant City Manager.

Press Release:

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Each day, the Justice for Children Advocacy Center welcomes children and families who have endured the trauma of sexual and/or physical abuse, providing them with critical services and working to minimize the hurt for each child and family. However, we cannot do this work alone and look to you to help us spread awareness to encourage prevention.

The pinwheel is a national symbol of a happy and carefree childhood. They are whimsical and fun just like a childhood should be! The Justice for Children Advocacy Center is planting a pinwheel garden on behalf of all the children and families in our community! These pinwheels are a visual reminder of the number of children and families we have served at our center in the past year.

This community event is a great way to recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month and remind everyone that we all can help make great childhoods happen.

You can get involved during Child Abuse Prevention Month and learn about the ways the Justice for Children Advocacy Center is helping families and children in our community through prevention education and free services that help children heal and thrive. Contact us to learn how you can get involved--plant your own pinwheel garden, attend other Advocacy Center events/activities, and wear blue to show your support on April 9.

The Justice for Children Advocacy Center continues to be dedicated to ending child abuse through prevention, intervention, and education. The center offers a safe environment and a child-friendly process for abused children and their families, supported by a committed multidisciplinary team specializing in the investigation, prosecution, and treatment of child abuse victims.

For more information, contact Trisha Reynolds at the Justice for Children Advocacy Center at 585-344-8576 or “like” us on Facebook. 

#PinwheelsforPrevention #ChildAbusePreventionMonth2025 #WearBlueDay2025#OneTooManyNY #StopChildAbuse-BETHEONE

NY State Child Abuse Hotline 1-800-342-3720

Press Release:

The New York State Restaurant Association (NYSRA) hosted its 21st annual ProStart Invitational at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park on March 7-8. This prestigious event provides students the opportunity to showcase the skills they've honed throughout their training and compete for a spot at the National ProStart Invitational in Baltimore. 

The NYSRA ProStart Invitational is composed of three distinct competitions – team management, team culinary, and individual burger battle. Each event showcases the most important skills needed on both sides of the restaurant and food service industry.

The first-place winners for team culinary are students from Orleans Career & Technical Education Center in Medina, New York and students from Southwest Tech in Bennington, Vermont. The first-place winners for team management and hospitality are students from Rockland BOCES in West Nyack, New York and students from Southwest Tech in Bennington, Vermont. These four winning teams now have the chance to represent New York State and Vermont at the National ProStart Invitational, taking place May 2-4 in Baltimore, Maryland.  

ProStart is a two-year, industry-backed culinary arts and restaurant management program for high school students. ProStart students learn how to be an industry professional through hands-on work under the direction of a mentor. Students also learn the importance of arriving on time prepared for work, teamwork, and accountability.

“We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our ProStart students this year. This event is something we look forward to hosting annually, giving students the opportunity to showcase the skills they've developed throughout the year, while having fun in some friendly competition. ProStart is a remarkable program that equips students with valuable industry skills, providing them with hands-on learning experiences. These students are the future of the restaurant industry. Congratulations to all of this year’s participants, and we wish you the best of luck for the rest of the school year,” said Melissa Fleischut, President and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association.  

“I appreciate how much real-world experience ProStart incorporates in the curriculum, and I know first-hand how important that is for the future of the hospitality industry. One of my favorite ways to engage the students is our food truck challenge. Every group gets to create a restaurant concept, create a menu and cost out that menu. By doing this project we cover many important topics in the ProStart curriculum. I am very grateful for the opportunity to teach ProStart. Like I said, being a student of ProStart I know the value in it. It’s really lifelong learning,” said Amanda Repko, CIA Grad, former ProStart Student, current ProStart educator and coach to multiple NY Invitational teams.

See below for the full list of competitors and winners:

New York:

Culinary winners

• 1st Place: Orleans Career & Technical Education Center (Medina, NY)
• 2nd Place: Questar III Donald R. Kline Technical School TEAM 2 (Hudson NY)
• 3rd Place: Genesee Valley BOCES (Batavia NY)

Management winners

• 1st Place: Rockland BOCES (West Nyack)
• 2nd Place: Questar III Donald R. Kline Technical School (Hudson NY) 

Vermont:

Culinary winners

• 1st Place Culinary: Southwest Tech (Bennington, VT)
• 2nd Place C: River Bend Career & Technical Education Center TEAM 2 (Bradford, VT)
• 3rd Place C: River Bend Career & Technical Education Center TEAM 1 (Bradford, VT)

Management winners

• 1st Place: Southwest Tech (Bennington, VT)
• 2nd Place: River Bend Career & Technical Education Center (Bradford, VT)

Gourmet Burger Battle:

New York:  

• 1st: Abigail Merwin-ONC BOCES Northern Catskills Occupational Center (Grand Gorge, NY)
• 2nd: Hailey Temple -ONC BOCES Northern Catskills Occupational Center (Grand Gorge, NY)
• 3rd: Jayden Thomas-The Academy Charter School (Uniondale, NY)

Vermont:  

• 1st Place: Juan Lopez-River Valley Technical Center (Springfield, VT)