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Statement from Pete Zeliff, WNY STAMP Committee Chairman at GCEDC:

“The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) STAMP Committee unanimously approved a motion at our March 5, 2025 meeting recommending the GCEDC Board approve both a SEQR resolution and final resolution from STREAM US Data Centers, LLC to build a new data center at STAMP.

“The decision to make this recommendation was after a thorough review of public comments from the public hearings held in the town of Alabama on February 3, 2025 as well as extensive analysis by the STAMP Committee, GCEDC staff and members from the STAMP technical team which is comprised of legal, engineering and environmental professionals. 

“In making this recommendation to the GCEDC board, the STAMP Committee followed a deliberative process as we always do. We reviewed the three data center projects’ final and best offer, after which an initial resolution was adopted to schedule a public hearing for comments specific to each project. After the public hearing, we reviewed the public comments and responses to each relevant comment, which were elaborated upon in the staff and technical team reports.

“In assessing each project, we considered several factors, including the number of good-paying jobs that would be created, the footprint of the project, including electric and water needs and impacts on the local community. 

“We also assessed which project would have the least impact on the STAMP’s capacity to bring advanced manufacturing and semiconductor supply chain companies that we are targeting for STAMP and the subsequent jobs and capital investment.

“The STAMP Committee concluded that the project proposed by STREAM US Data Centers, LLC had the fewest impacts, particularly from an environmental standpoint, and provided the best overall fit at the STAMP site.

Statement from a group calling itself Allies of Tonawanda Seneca Nation:

GCEDC Board of Directors Votes Today on Approvals for Project Double Reed and Accompanying SEQR Resolution Despite Strong Regional Opposition  

Residents of Western New York are expressing concern over the Genesee Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors' plan to vote on resolutions approving the data center codenamed Project Double Reed and an accompanying State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) resolution at their 4pm meeting this afternoon. The GCEDC STAMP Committee voted yesterday to approve the staff’s recommendation in favor of Project Double Reed and also instructed the staff to prepare the accompanying SEQR resolution. Announcement of the votes and publication of the accompanying documents did not appear on GCEDC’s website until mid-afternoon yesterday.

Today’s votes are taking place despite strong and ongoing public opposition to GCEDC’s efforts to site a data center at STAMP. Despite GCEDC’s efforts to minimize public participation in a rushed approval process, GCEDC received 618 comments during a poorly publicized 10-day public comment period. At the February 3 public hearings, scheduled during a Monday afternoon, dozens of speakers voiced concerns about environmental harms, quality of life issues, impacts to the Tonawanda Seneca Nation, misallocation of taxpayer dollars and misuse of low cost hydropower, as well the agency’s repeated refusal to answer basic questions about the project applicants. Since the official comment period ended, GCEDC has received more than 702 comments in opposition, including 323 opposing the approval of Project Double Reed since Monday, March 3. 

GCEDC has also refused repeated requests from the Tonawanda Seneca Nation Council of Chiefs for a new set of hearings, even though the February 3 hearings were held during the Nation’s Midwinter Ceremonies. The Nation has raised extensive concerns about the SEQR environmental review process, for which GCEDC is acting as lead agency. GCEDC has dismissed those concerns in a SEQR resolution, which finds that Project Double Reed will not have a significant adverse impact upon public health that was not analyzed in the original 2012 STAMP Environmental Impact Statement. The Nation has consistently criticized this document as profoundly inadequate and out of date. 

Among the three data centers currently under consideration for the WNY Science and Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP) mega industrial site, Double Reed has requested the largest amount in tax breaks - $472 million in combined sales and mortgage tax exemptions. Double Reed is projected to produce 122 jobs, for a per job subsidy of $3.9 million. According to the GCEDC staff report, these subsidies would potentially be directed to a Fortune 50 company worth $100,000,000,000.

Backed by STREAM U.S. Data Centers, Double Reed will use 250 megawatts of electricity per year - significantly more than either competitor. This electricity would be drawn primarily from low-cost Niagara River hydropower, which the New York Power Authority (NYPA) allocates to STAMP even though the site lies outside the designated radius for this subsidy. In addition, Double Reed would have the potential to burn over 20,000 gallons of diesel fuel per day. 

According to their report, GCEDC staff chose Double Reed despite its high energy usage and requested tax breaks because the other two applications lack credibility and would have faced significant challenges and delays in obtaining permits. However, the staff also acknowledges that Double Reed lacks a firm commitment from a tenant, meaning it is not known what company would locate there, when, or what its operations might entail. 

Despite 15 years of effort and more than $410 million in taxpayer subsidies, GCEDC has struggled to attract viable tenants or construct basic infrastructure at the rural site proposed to become a “mega industrial park.” The agency pivoted to data centers to fill a gap in financing for the onsite electrical substation following the withdrawal of funding from Plug Power, which paused construction on its green hydrogen manufacturing facility in 2023. Each of the three data center applicants pledged contributions toward completion of the substation; Double Reed would pay $50 million. Its requested $3.9 million per job approaches the $4.3 million per job allocated to Plug Power. Edwards Vacuum is the only tenant under construction at STAMP.

GCEDC has not filed a new permit application for the proposed “Big Water” pipeline that would bring 6 million gallons of water daily to the site from the Niagara River, raising questions about the source of Double Reed’s proposed 10,000 gallons of water per day. The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Region 8 Office rejected GCEDC’s previous application as incomplete in August 2024. GCEDC recently filed a Basis of Design Report for a reroute of the Wastewater Treatment Pipeline that would pump raw sewage from STAMP uphill and under multiple waterways to the Oakfield Wastewater Treatment Facility; treated wastewater would be discharged into a tributary of Oak Orchard Creek. Construction of the original pipeline was halted in September 2023 following fracouts of 500-700 gallons of hydraulic drilling fluid into the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge. 

‘Data center’ is a generic term that can refer to operations ranging from cryptocurrency mining to Artificial Intelligence processing. Data centers create minimal jobs, use massive amounts of water and energy, and face opposition from other WNY communities concerned about their noxious public health and environmental impacts. The proposed data center would be sited on a parcel of land characterized by wetlands and located immediately adjacent to the Reservation Territory of the Tonawanda Seneca Nation, whose Council of Chiefs opposes STAMP.  

“We are confident that STREAM US Data Centers, LLC will provide all the taxing jurisdictions with significant financial benefits making it a transformative project for our region while further enhancing economic development opportunities at STAMP.”

Press release:

On February 20, 2025, Janessa Amesbury broke the 38-year-old Byron-Bergen Girls Basketball single-game scoring record with 41 points. Amesbury, a senior, has been playing basketball since 5th grade. She also takes part in Varsity Soccer and Softball.

“What she has done this year has been absolutely amazing,” said Varsity Girls Basketball Head Coach Richard Krzewinski. “She didn’t come up to varsity until halfway through her sophomore year. Last year she averaged 18 points a game. Going into sectionals she is averaging 26 points per game. She is closing in on 1,000 career points. She would be the fifth B-B girls basketball player to hit 1,000, joining her mother Tammy (1984) and sister Julianna (2020).”

"I would like to offer my congratulations to Janessa," said Athletic Director Rich Hannan. “She loves the game of basketball and plays with reckless abandon. She plays her heart out each night and her passion for the game is evident each and every time she laces up her shoes. Breaking a long-standing record like this is quite the accomplishment.”

Of this new record, Amesbury said, “I would like to thank my coaches and my mom for pushing me to be the best I can be.”

Press Release:

Elizabeth Jarnot of Batavia is the first homeowner to complete a home repair project through a new PathStone Self Help home repair program. Ms. Jarnot remodeled two bathrooms, installed new flooring, replaced windows and made other improvements to the home she shares with her 4-year-old son. PathStone, through its affiliate Rural Housing Opportunities Corp, provided all the materials for the job, loaned her the needed tools and provided hands-on training and support with completing all the work.

“This has been such a wonderful program to be a part of -- it really has been life-changing for me and my son,” said Ms. Jarnot. “Not only were we able to make needed repairs that I couldn't have done alone but I also got help from the most amazing people who really care about their community. On top of all that, I learned about home repair and responsible homeownership. I am so thankful that this resource exists because it's going to have such lasting and positive impacts for so many -- I know it did for my family!”

PathStone received a 2-year grant from USDA Rural Development to complete 20 similar home repair projects in Genesee and Orleans Counties. Eligible households must earn below 80% of the median income for the area by household size, agree to do most of the work themselves and meet other requirements. 

“We’ve been operating home repair programs in the area for 30 years and the demand for our limited government grant funds is so high, we decided to add the Self Help program as a way to serve more families in need. Our regular home repair grant program has a 3-5 year waiting list but now folks can jump to the top of the list if they qualify for Self Help and are willing and able to do most of the work themselves with our help,” said John Wiltse, senior operations director at PathStone and president of Rural Housing Opportunities Corp. 

Participant households can enlist the help of family and friends to meet their labor contribution. Eligible work must address building deficiencies and health and safety concerns such as plumbing and electrical problems, lead-based paint and obsolete fixtures and finishes. 

Low and moderate income homeowners in Genesee and Orleans Counties who want to learn more about the program, please call 585-546-3700 ext. 3026 or email homerehab@pathstone.org.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) visited the National Susan B. Anthony Museum and House in Rochester today in commemoration of Susan B. Anthony Day earlier this month. Western New York has a long history in the women’s suffrage movement, including one of Hawley’s relatives, Ella Hawley Crossett. 

Ella was an influential leader at the local level and was a long-tenured member of the executive board of the New York State Woman Suffrage Association (NYSWSA). Hawley is proud of Western New York’s history during the suffrage movement and hopes these local heroes will serve as an inspiration for future generations.

“It was an honor to be able to visit the Susan B. Anthony house today,” said Hawley. “Our region has a rich history in the fight for women’s suffrage and equal rights. I hope everyone takes time to learn more about our history and the impact figures like Susan B. Anthony and my relative, Ella Hawley Crossett, had on our nation.”

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

Batavia Muckdogs, and CAN-USA Sports Ownership are back for their fifth season at Dwyer Stadium and are incredibly excited to announce plans for the upcoming summer! 

The 2025 PGCBL schedule has been released with the Muckdogs home opener scheduled for Saturday, May 31 at 6:35 p.m. vs the Elmira Pioneers. The PGCBL welcomes a new opponent north of the border, as the city of St. Catherines in Ontario Canada will have a new franchise for 2025. 

Batavia will host 4 fireworks nights this season. Be on the lookout for our 2025 promotional schedule and be sure to check out our social media pages for more updates. 

If you are interested in bringing your group or business out to a game at Dwyer Stadium, email General Manager Marc Witt (mwitt.canusa@gmail.com). A complete schedule is available at www.canusamuckdogs.com.

The Muckdogs finished in first place during the regular season for the third season in a row in 2024. Batavia finished with a franchise record .802-win percentage posting an incredible 34-8 record. The record setting season was cut short in the PGCBL Western Conference Championship game as the Muckdogs fell to Elmira. 

“Last season we enjoyed so much success on and off the field in the community and I am so grateful and proud of what this team did here in Batavia. I know Skip Martinez can’t wait to get the Muckdogs back on the field in 2025 and bring this city a championship” – Owner Robbie Nichols.

If you have not bought season tickets, make sure to get them by calling their offices at 585-524-2260 or www.canusamuckdogs.com. Season tickets start at just $99!

CAN-USA Sports is also excited to announce the return of Xtreme International Ice Racing on Saturday March 29 at 7 p.m. at the David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena presented by Casella Waste Systems.

XiiR (Xtreme International Ice Racing) is a motorcycle racing tour…ON ICE! Man and machine going from 0-60mph in under 3 seconds, with speedway bikes and quads that are modified to compete on an indoor ice arena. There are over 2000 metal studs added to the tires and there are no brakes. It is the fastest sport on ice and one of the fastest sports in the world. The event will be making its third appearance to Batavia and each year’s event sold out at the McCarthy Ice Arena so get your tickets early online at www.mccarthyicearena.com or in person at the rink (22 Evans Street Batavia).

Press Release:

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) introduced the State-Level Departments of Government Efficiency Establishment Act or the State-Level DOGE Establishment Act to crack down on waste, fraud, and abuse in state governments.

Specifically, this legislation conditions the disbursement of federal financial assistance, except for security-related funding, on states establishing an independent DOGE commission.

"DOGE is working diligently at the federal level to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse. It’s time for state governments to follow suit. States like New York receive billions in federal aid annually, yet waste it on DEI initiatives and woke programs that are out of touch with the vast majority of Americans. It is imperative that these tax dollars are used properly and efficiently. The State-Level DOGE Establishment Act ensures that states create a DOGE commission to oversee the use of taxpayer funding and cut back on wasteful programs. If they refuse, they should not receive a dime of taxpayer money from the federal government,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

Press Release:

On Valentine’s Day, the Byron-Bergen Elementary School sent a whole lotta love to the Genesee County Animal Shelter in the form of 1,173 donated items. The items were collected by grade level for the annual 100 Days of School Community Service Project. 

Each year, each grade level is challenged to collect 100 of a certain item for donation to a local non-profit or charitable organization. 

The items collected are as follows:

• UPK: 102 Q-tips
• Kindergarten: 183 cat and dog toys
• First Grade: 138 cat and dog treats
• Second Grade: 136 dog leashes
• Third Grade: 160 rolls of paper towels
• Fourth Grade: 316 animal waste bags
• Fifth Grade: 138 bags of cotton balls and bottles of rubbing alcohol

This year’s project involved the students in more ways than ever. The students voted on which organization they wanted to work with this year, Student Council worked on planning and made one-of-a-kind folders to be presented to new pet owners upon adoption.

“This project is a wonderful way to teach children to think about the greater community that they live in,” said Kindergarten Teacher and project organizer Ayn Gardner. “There is always someone in need in a community and it is important for students to learn to help when they can. The Byron-Bergen community is incredibly generous, and I am grateful that they continue to support this project, year after year.”

Press release:

Statement from Mark Masse, CEO of the Genesee County Economic Development Center:

“The Genesee County Economic Development Center staff and the STAMP technical team, which is comprised of legal, engineering and environmental professionals are recommending that the GCEDC Board of Directors advance a proposal from STREAM US Data Centers, LLC to build a new data center at STAMP. 

“The first step in this process is for the GCEDC STAMP Committee to review all the supporting materials that accompany the recommendation to the Board, and if they agree with the conclusion, approve moving the recommendation to the full Board at the March 6, 2025 Board meeting. This matter will be discussed at the STAMP Committee meeting on Wednesday, March 5, 2025.

“The staff and technical team assessed several factors in our recommendation to the Board, including thorough review of the responses to relevant comments raised at the February 3, 2025 public hearing. We also took into consideration the number of good-paying jobs that would be created, the footprint of the project, including electric and water needs and impacts on the local community. 

“Another factor that was considered in our recommendation was which project would have the least impact to the STAMP footprint as GCEDC staff continues to focus on bringing advanced manufacturing and semiconductor supply chain companies to STAMP.

“Staff ultimately concluded, in close consultation with the technical team, that STREAM US Data Centers, LLC project had the fewest impacts, particularly from an environmental standpoint, and provided the best overall fit at the STAMP site.

“GCEDC staff and the technical will be prepared to discuss our recommendation to the GCEDC board at the March 5^th STAMP Committee meeting.”

Statement from a group calling itself Allies of Tonawanda Seneca Nation:

Local residents are highlighting the Genesee Economic Development Center (GCEDC) staff’s recommendation to approve the data center codenamed Project Double Reed. The GCEDC STAMP Committee will vote on this recommendation, as well as the staff’s recommendation to prepare a State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) resolution for Double Reed, at a meeting on March 5. The full Board meets on March 6. 

Among the three data centers currently under consideration for the WNY Science and Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP) mega industrial site, Double Reed has requested the largest amount in tax breaks - $472 million in combined sales and mortgage tax exemptions. Double Reed is projected to produce 122 jobs, for a per job subsidy of $3.9 million.

Backed by STREAM U.S. Data Centers, Double Reed will use 250 megawatts of electricity per year - significantly more than either competitor. This electricity would be drawn primarily from low-cost Niagara River hydropower, which the New York Power Authority (NYPA) allocates to STAMP even though the site lies outside the designated radius for this subsidy. In addition, Double Reed would have the potential to burn over 20,000 gallons of diesel fuel per day.. 

According to their report, GCEDC staff chose Double Reed despite its high energy usage and requested tax breaks because the other two applications lack credibility and would have faced significant challenges and delays in obtaining permits. However, the staff also acknowledges that Double Reed lacks a firm commitment from a tenant, meaning it is not known what company would locate there, when, or what its operations might entail. 

GCEDC staff are advocating that the full Board approve Double Reed despite strong and ongoing opposition from residents as well as previously stated internal questions regarding the ‘fit’ of a data center at STAMP. At public hearings held on February 3, dozens of speakers voiced concerns about environmental harms, quality of life issues, impacts to the Tonawanda Seneca Nation, misallocation of taxpayer dollars and misuse of low cost hydropower, as well the agency’s repeated refusal to answer basic questions about the project applicants. GCEDC also received 618 written comments. 

Since the hearings, CEO Mark Masse has received at least 379 emails demanding that applicants conduct additional research regarding noise, traffic, hydrology, economic impacts to the Oak Orchard watershed, and EMS services. GCEDC has also refused repeated requests from the Tonawanda Seneca Nation Council of Chiefs for a new set of hearings, even though the February 3 hearings were held during the Nation’s Midwinter Ceremonies. The Nation has raised extensive concerns about the SEQR environmental review process, for which GCEDC is acting as lead agency. GCEDC appears poised to dismiss those concerns. 

Despite 15 years of effort and more than $410 million in taxpayer subsidies, GCEDC has struggled to attract viable tenants or construct basic infrastructure at the rural site proposed to become a “mega industrial park.” The agency pivoted to data centers to fill a gap in financing for the onsite electrical substation following the withdrawal of funding from Plug Power, which paused construction on its green hydrogen manufacturing facility in 2023. Each of the three data center applicants pledged contributions toward completion of the substation; Double Reed would pay $50 million. Its requested $3.9 million per job approaches the $4.3 million per job allocated to Plug Power. Edwards Vacuum is the only tenant under construction at STAMP.

GCEDC has not filed a new permit application for the proposed “Big Water” pipeline that would bring 6 million gallons of water daily to the site from the Niagara River, raising questions about the source of Double Reed’s proposed 10,000 gallons of water per day. The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation Region 8 Office rejected GCEDC’s previous application as incomplete in August 2024. GCEDC recently filed a Basis of Design Report for a reroute of the Wastewater Treatment Pipeline that would pump raw sewage from STAMP uphill and under multiple waterways to the Oakfield Wastewater Treatment Facility; treated wastewater would be discharged into a tributary of Oak Orchard Creek. Construction of the original pipeline was halted in September 2023 following fracouts of 500-700 gallons of hydraulic drilling fluid into the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge. 

‘Data center’ is a generic term that can refer to operations ranging from cryptocurrency mining to Artificial Intelligence processing. Data centers create minimal jobs, use massive amounts of water and energy, and face opposition from other WNY communities concerned about their noxious public health and environmental impacts. The proposed data center would be sited on a parcel of land characterized by wetlands and located immediately adjacent to the Reservation Territory of the Tonawanda Seneca Nation, whose Council of Chiefs opposes STAMP.

GCEDC STAMP Committee Meeting
March 5, 2025 at 8am 

GCEDC Board of Directors Meeting 
March 6, 2025 at 4pm 

Location: 99 MedTech Drive, Innovation Zone. Batavia, NY 14020
Meetings are open to the public. 

Press Release:

The HomeCare & Hospice Foundation invites community members to brighten lives while supporting compassionate hospice care through its 31st Annual Spring Bouquet Sale. With more than 10 pop-up locations across Allegany, Cattaraugus, Genesee, and Wyoming counties, this beloved fundraiser directly benefits terminally ill patients and their families.

Each pop-up location will offer vibrant 9- and 18-stem bouquets as well as Oliver’s Chocolate candy bars, making it easy to bring joy to a loved one while supporting a meaningful cause.

Bouquets serving Allegany and Cattaraugus counties are locally crafted by Mandy’s Flowers of Olean, while those in Genesee and Wyoming counties are created by Beverly’s Flowers and Gifts of Batavia. 

Prices are $15 for a 9-stem bouquet, $25 for an 18-stem bouquet, and $2 per candy bar. Every purchase helps provide vital hospice services, ensuring comfort and care for those in need.

“Each bouquet represents more than just flowers—it’s a symbol of hope, support, and the kindness that makes our communities stronger,” said Melissa Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer of HomeCare & Hospice. “By purchasing a bouquet, you are directly contributing to compassionate end-of-life care for those who need it most.”

New this year, the Foundation has partnered with Crosby’s Convenience Stores to expand the reach of this important fundraiser.

Rob Augustine, Crosby’s Director of Sales and Merchandising, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “Crosby’s is proud to support HomeCare & Hospice by hosting pop-up locations at our stores in Corfu, Friendship, Hinsdale, and Perry. We are excited to help spread smiles throughout our communities.”

In addition to the pop-up sales, St. Bonaventure University’s men’s basketball game will host a bouquet pop-up location near the bookstore at the Reilly Center on March 5, allowing fans to support hospice care while cheering on the Bonnies.

Pop-Up Sale Locations & Dates:

Monday, March 3

1. Jones Memorial Hospital (10 a.m. – 1 p.m.)
2. Olean Food Barn (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
3. Olean Walmart (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
4. Olean General Hospital (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
5. Olean YMCA (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
6. Crosby’s Hinsdale
7. Crosby’s Friendship

Tuesday, March 4

1. Olean Food Barn (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
2. Olean Walmart (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
3. Olean General Hospital (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
4. Olean YMCA (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
5. Crosby’s Hinsdale
6. Crosby’s Friendship

Wednesday, March 5 

1. St. Bonaventure Reilly Center (6 – 8:30 p.m.)
2. Crosby’s Hinsdale
3. Crosby’s Friendship
4. Crosby’s Corfu
5. Crosby’s Perry

Thursday, March 6

1. Crosby’s Corfu
2. Crosby’s Perry
3. Wyoming County Community Health System (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.)
4. United Memorial Medical Center (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.)

Friday, March 7

1. Crosby’s Corfu
2. Crosby’s Perry
3. Wyoming County Community Health System (10 a.m. – 2 p.m.)

“The Spring Bouquet Sale is a beautiful way to honor loved ones while ensuring that hospice care remains available to all who need it,” added Sullivan. “We are grateful for the ongoinggenerosity of our communities and look forward to seeing many friendly faces at our pop-up locations.”

For more information, please contact HomeCare & Hospice at 716-372-2106 or visit https://BouquetSale.givesmart.com.

By Connor Beagle

This past weekend saw Roberts Wesleyan University Senior Zachary Hall defend his East Coast Conference title in the 5000 meter run with a time of 15:54.00. Hall would go on to earn 1st-Team All-Conference honors in the 5000 meter run, and 2nd-Team All-Conference honors for his 4th place finish in the 3000 meter run. 

Despite battling injuries earlier in the season Hall was prepared to take on any challenge he needed to for his team who ended up placing 2nd overall at the conference championships. Prior to the East Coast Conference Indoor Championships in Staten Island, New York Hall had only raced three times throughout the indoor season, following a successful final cross-country season, in which he won the East Coast Conference Championships. Hall opened his season at Grand Valley State University with a sub 15 min 5000 meter run (14:59.41) before heading into the holiday break.

It wouldn’t be until January 30 until Hall would return to action for the Redhawks. At the RIT Thursday Invitational Hall would win the mile with a time of 4:36.21. The following week Hall would race at the Brockport Multi Invitational and take 7th in the mile, running 4:29.87 in preparation for a busy weekend at the Ocean Breeze Complex where the indoor conference championships would be held.

Last season Hall won the 5000 meter run and placed 2nd in the 3000 meter run at the indoor conference championships. Hall also won the 5000 meter run and placed 2nd in the 1500 meter run during the outdoor season.

With the goal of winning a team conference title this indoor season, Hall’s speed would be needed on the track for the Redhawks. Hall would follow behind John Ray of Queens College (NY) for most of the 5000 meter run, before overtaking him in the final 100 meter of the race to defend his title and earn 10 points for the Redhawks. 

Next up for Hall was the 3000 meter run, where again he would finish ahead of John Ray of Queens College (N.Y.) and behind fellow Redhawks Trevor Heitkamp (2nd place) and Owen White who would end up winning the event. Despite Hall’s 14 points, the Redhawks would finish 2nd overall behind Holy Family University.

Hall will look to take his successful Senior season into the outdoor season and hope to lead his team to a third straight outdoor conference title. Hall and his co-stars on the Redhawks distance squad have managed to be nationally ranked in the top 25 of the 5000 meter run event squad rankings that USTFCCCA puts out each week, coming in at the #25 spot this past week. 

This season the Redhawks have been ranked as high as 14th in the 5000 meter event squad rankings. Hall has also been recognized this season by the East Coast Conference, being named to the ECC Honor Roll earlier in the season.

Hall and the Redhawks will look to finish out their season at Houghton University on February 22 and Boston University on March 2 before the NCAA DII Indoor Championships in mid March.

Press Release:

The Pembroke Teachers’ Federation (PTF) will be hosting a 5K walk/run on April 26, at 9 a.m. in the village of Corfu to help raise funds for their community. This year, the event will support Genesee County Mental Health, an organization dedicated to supporting county residents with mental illness. Through their programs, community members can meet with professionals to reach their highest level of functioning.

PTF has a longstanding history of supporting Genesee County Mental Health and is looking forward to continuing this tradition. Proceeds from the event will go directly to benefit those served by the organization through different services, including:

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
• ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
• Trauma- Based Treatments
• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
• Forensic Services
• Care Management
• And so much more

“Providing mental health services to our community is something we take very seriously. We want to show our students, families, and colleagues that it’s okay to ask for help. It’s okay to talk to someone and it’s especially okay not to be okay,” said PTF Union President Arron Brown. “Mental health struggles aren’t something you can see by looking at someone, so our job is to make the people around us feel comfortable enough to ask for help when they need it.”

For those interested in joining PTF and the wider community to raise awareness and support mental health in Genesee County can sign up by checking out the PTF Facebook page or contacting civison@pembrokecsd.org for a registration link. Early registration is available for $15 until March 17. All registration after that date will be $20.

Press Release:

A public information meeting will be held regarding New Town Park on Wednesday, February 26, at 6 p.m. The meeting will take place at Batavia Town Hall, located at 3833 West Main Street Road, Batavia.

Project: New York Green received funding from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo for design of a proposed new public park on a property owned by the Town of Batavia and located on Park Road in the City of Batavia. 

The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds were established at the Community Foundation to provide support to four areas that were important to Mr. Wilson: caregivers, community assets, design and access, and youth sports. Endowment funds, like these created to honor Mr. Wilson, are designed to grow over time and provide funding for charitable causes according to a client’s wishes.

Agenda: At the meeting we will share and solicit public feedback on the conceptual design for the proposed new park.

Special Arrangements: All are welcome to attend this meeting. If you require special arrangements (translators, handicap accessibility etc.) please contact Steve Tanner at 585-813-7246.

Press Release:

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to welcome Dr. Michael Boston of SUNY Brockport as our next Guest Speaker on Saturday, March 1st at 11 am. Dr. Boston of SUNY Brockport will be presenting on “Female Conductors of the Underground Railroad in Western and Central New York”; Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com. 

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next presenter in its Guest Speaker Series on Thursday, March 6 at 7 p.m. Dr. Ann Bunch a forensic anthropologist of SUNY Brockport Criminal Justice Department, will be presenting on her new book,
"The William Morgan Affair: Masonic Mystery in Upstate New York." The book takes an investigative science approach to the mystery of William Morgan's disappearance to demystify and highlight ways to resolve his fate following his last known sightings in 1826. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you would like to attend.

Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for the next Trivia Night @ the Museum on Thursday, March 13 at 7 p.m. This month's topic is the First Ladies of the United States. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you would like to attend.

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to welcome back No Blarney for our St. Patrick's Day tradition, as they play all your favorite Irish music tunes from throughout the years. The concert will be Friday, March 14 from 7-9 pm. Admission is $5 or $4 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com. Seating is limited so reserve your spot early.

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to welcome back Civil War historian and author Chris Mackowski on Wednesday, March 26 at 7 p.m. This presentation has been rescheduled from its original date of January 21. Chris will be presenting on his book, "The Last Days of Stonewall Jackson" of the Emerging Civil War series. The presentation will cover Jackson's military career and the last fateful days during the Battle of Chancellorsville that led to his mortal wounding. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. If you plan on attending, please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com.

Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum on March 27, at 9 a.m., come hear HLOM Curator Tyler Angora for our FREE morning coffee program Java with Joe. Tyler will be explaining the newest exhibit at HLOM in greater detail and why this was the exhibit he chose to begin in 2025! Learn about his research and the clothing in the exhibit Admission is FREE, and Tim Horton’s of Batavia will provide coffee and donuts. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you would like to attend.

Press Release:

The Genesee Community College History Club is proud to launch its commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord with a special Historical Horizons Lecture on Wednesday, March 5, at 7 p.m. in room T102. The event, titled A Single Blow: The Battles of Lexington and Concord, will be presented by renowned historian and author Phil Greenwalt and is free and open to the public.

In his lecture, Greenwalt will explore the pivotal events of April 19, 1775, which marked the beginning of open conflict between Great Britain and its thirteen North American colonies. Attendees will gain insight into the years of unrest that led to this historic moment and how it set the course for American independence.

Phil Greenwalt is the co-founder of Emerging Revolutionary War and is also a full-time contributor to Emerging Civil War. He is the author or co-author of five books on the American Revolution and the American Civil War. Phil graduated from George Mason University with a M.A. in American History and also has a B.A. in history from Wheeling Jesuit University. He is currently the Chief of Interpretation and Education at Catoctin Mountain Park. He has over 15 years of service in the National Park Service and has worked at De Soto National Memorial, Everglades National Park and Morristown National Historical Park before Catoctin. His first permanent ranger position was as a historian with the National Park Service at George Washington Birthplace National Monument and Thomas Stone National Historic Site. However, he started with the National Park Service as a historical interpreter intern in college at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park.

Copies of Greenwalt's book will be available for purchase through the GCC Bookstore, and attendees will have the opportunity to meet the author and have their books signed after the talk.

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

Press Release:

The Table Top Art Show is excited to announce our event on March 4, at Eli Fish Brewing in downtown Batavia. We warmly invite local media representatives to join us for an evening celebrating the incredible talents of our local artists and the vibrant art community we cherish.

This year, we received an impressive 184 entries from 92 artists, showcasing the creativity and passion of our local talent. The event will feature 15 pieces in our traditional gallery display, six honorable mentions, and a special judges' corner. The 15 selected pieces will also be featured on our tabletop version of the show, adorning the tables of 30+ restaurants and three libraries this year. To top it off, our online gallery will feature all 184 entries.

Join us for the Opening Reception on March 4 at 7 p.m. at Eli Fish Brewing in the heart of Downtown Batavia! After the Reveal the show runs for the month of March.

The Table Top Art Show highlights the collaborative spirit of our arts community, paired with the support of local businesses and restaurants. The media's presence at this event will help us celebrate our talented artists and promote the importance of supporting local arts in our community.

We would be delighted to provide interviews with participating artists, event organizers, and sponsors. Your coverage will help us spotlight the creativity and dedication that makes our local art scene thrive.

Please let me know if you have any questions about the show. We look forward to seeing you there and sharing this wonderful celebration of art! For more information visit https://tabletopartshow.secure-decoration.com. 

Press Release:

GLOW With Your Hands organizers are seeking additional volunteers to support the coordination of the third annual GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare on March 17. More than 650 students from Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties will learn first-hand about exciting career opportunities in the healthcare sector by meeting representatives and professionals from a variety of healthcare organizations, careers, and training programs.

Organizations such as M&T Bank and students from the Genesee Valley BOCES Health Career Academy have signed up for this year’s healthcare event, assisting as tour guides, lunch helpers, and an extra set of hands for GLOW With Your Hands committee members. Event organizers emphasized that these career exploration events are made possible thanks to the generosity of local organizations and individuals who dedicate their time to support local youth.

“It’s a tremendous testament to the success of this annual career exploration day that we have over 650 students attending, but at the same time, it takes a lot of volunteers to manage so many exuberant youths in one place,” said GLOW With Your Hands Co-Chair Karyn Winters said. “We are fortunate to have volunteers already registered, but we need more to cover all our bases.”

Representatives from hospitals and health systems and professionals in nursing, mental health, social services, and emergency responders will be on hand to interact with students to discuss potential careers and pathways into their respective fields.  While some careers might begin immediately after high school, the students will also be able to explore educational pathways in the healthcare sector through BOCES and degrees available at local colleges and universities.

“The day after the event ends, we start to plan the next day for the event the following year which includes making sure our volunteers had the type of experience to help us again,” said Angela Grouse, GLOW With Your Hands Co-Chair. “We are so fortunate that most of our volunteers come back year after year, but you can never have enough!”

Registration for volunteers is available by emailing Karyn Winters at kwinters@geneseeny.com or filling out the volunteer form at https://www.glowwithyourhands.com/healthcarevolunteers.