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Press Release:

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to welcome Dr. Michael Boston of SUNY Brockport as our next Guest Speaker on Saturday, May 3 at 11 a.m. 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 if you plan on attending.

Every first Wednesday is Night at the Museum at the Holland Land Office Museum. Come to the museum between 5 and 8 p.m. for extended hours on Wednesday, April 7 for those who cannot make it during our regularly scheduled ones! For Night at the Museum, you will get special personal tours from staff and volunteers, and see more behind the scenes! We hope to see you there! Admission is the regular pricing listed on our website!

Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for the next Trivia Night on Thursday, May 8 at 7 p.m. Come and test your knowledge our county and study up on the history of Genesee County. 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 the DSP Trio for a concert on Friday, May 16 at 7 p.m. The local jazz group of Derek Reiss, Skip Taylor and Peter Mark will get your toes a tapping with a great selection of jazz music. Admission is $5 or $4 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 edition of our Java with Joe E. Series on Thursday, May 22 at 9 a.m. Richard Beatty will be presenting on "Dr. Seuss Goes to War." In conjunction with the new exhibit at HLOM, Richard Beatty will present a look back at Dr. Seuss's virtually unknown WWII era political cartoons. Author Richard H Minear, now retired Professor of History at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, discovered that there existed 400 drawings that ultimately became the subject matter for his 1999 book, "Dr. Seuss Goes to War, the World War II Editorial Cartoons of Theodor Seuss Geisel." Come and hear about Seuss's contribution to the war effort years before his name became famous for his wildly popular children's books. Thank you to Tim Horton's of Batavia for sponsoring the refreshments for Java with Joe E. for 2025.

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next edition of its Concert Series on Friday, May 23 at 7 p.m. Bart Dentino will be playing an acoustic selection of music that will include original compositions and songs by such artists as James Taylor, Gordon Lightfoot, The Beatles, and others. Bart was twice selected Best Performer and Best Vocalist of the Year by Freetime Magazine. It was the first time in the magazine’s history an artist was selected in two individual categories. Admission is $5 or $4 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 Musuem is proud to announce the latest presenter in our Guest Speaker Series on Thursday, May 29 at 7 p.m. Vic Vignola will be presenting on his book "Contrast in Command: The Battle of Fair Oaks, May 31-June 1, 1862." His presentation describes the golden opportunity McClellan presented Confederate leadership at Seven Pines/Fair Oaks on May 31, 1862. A day which developed into one of contrasts regarding leadership and command decisions made by Johnston, Sumner, and others. Award winning author/historian Victor Vignola is a lifelong student of the Civil War. His first book Contrasts in Command: The Battle of Fair Oaks – May 31 – June 1, 1862. He has also authored magazine articles for the American Civil War, and North and South publications. Vic conducts Civil War history programs and conducts tours of various sites. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you plan to attend.

NOTE: The Batavian asked a spokesman for the Social Security Administration about the reason for the temporary closure. He said, "The Batavia SSA office underwent renovations to feature additional interviewing booths, which will allow us to provide better service with additional privacy for our visitors.  On Thursday, May 1, and Friday, May 2, 2025, the office will be temporarily closed to walk-in visitors while we finalize renovations."

Press Release:

The Batavia Social Security office located at 571 East Main Street, Batavia, NY, will be temporarily closed on Thursday, May 1 and Friday, May 2. The office will reopen to the public on Monday, May 5th, 2025, at 9:00am. Local telephone services at the Batavia Social Security office will remain available at 1-866-931-7103. 

People who need to conduct their Social Security business in person may visit the following Social Security offices:

• 4050 West Ridge Road, 2nd Floor, Rochester, NY
• 200 East Main Street, 2nd Floor, Rochester, NY   

Social Security office hours are from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.   

Social Security’s customers can now make appointments for all types of services instead of waiting in line, resulting in a better overall experience and reductions in wait times. 

Customers can still wait in line if they cannot or do not want to make an appointment.  Staff at local offices are being particularly mindful of vulnerable populations, people with disabilities, and other groups needing specialized or immediate attention when they walk in.  People can schedule an appointment by calling their local office (recommended) or 1-800-772-1213, which also has a call-back feature.  People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call Social Security’s TTY number, 1-800-325-0778.

Many Social Security services are conveniently available online at www.ssa.gov.  People may create their my Social Security account, a personalized online service, at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.  If they already receive Social Security benefits, they can start or change direct deposit online, request a replacement SSA-1099, and if they need proof of their benefits, they can print or download a current Benefit Verification Letter from their account.  People not yet receiving benefits can use their online account to get a personalized Social Security Statement, which provides their earnings information as well as estimates of their future benefits.  The portal also includes a retirement calculator and links to information about other online services. 

Need a Social Security Number card? 
Please note for many situations people only need their number and not the actual card.  If they need a card, they should start the process online. 

People can visit www.ssa.gov/number-card to submit a request for a replacement card, start an application for an updated card, or to request a Social Security number for the first time.  Some people may not need to visit an office and, if they do need to visit an office to complete the application, they will save a lot of time by starting online. 

Want to apply for benefits?  
People can apply online for most benefits.  In many cases, there are no forms to sign.  The agency will review the application and reach out with questions or for more information.  Visit www.ssa.gov/onlineservices to apply for retirement, disability, or Medicare. 

Need proof of benefits, want to check the status of an application or appeal, or curious what else people can do online?   

Visit www.ssa.gov/myaccount or www.ssa.gov/onlineservices today. 

Press Release:

Each year, letter carriers across the country head out on their routes on the second Saturday in May to collect donations of non-perishable food items to benefit local food pantries. Since launching in 1993, the National Association of Letter Carriers' annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive has grown into the nation's largest one-day food drive, helping to fill the shelves of food banks in cities and towns throughout the United States.

The need is great, but you can help. We invite you to join letter carriers and our partner organizations in the fight to end hunger in our communities by participating in the annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive.

Simply leave your donation of non-perishable food in a bag near your mailbox on the second Saturday in May, and your letter carrier will do the rest.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) is calling out the Majority for its inability to present a finished state budget. The budget, which was due on April 1, is now over three weeks late with no end in sight. Without a finalized proposal, local organizations such as school boards will have to prepare their own budgets without any idea of how much revenue they will be getting from the state.

“The delayed budget is a slap in the face to our local school districts courtesy of Gov. Hochul and the Majority in Albany,” said Hawley. “How can our school boards create their budgets if they don’t even know what funds they will be getting? This isn’t just a mild inconvenience. They are setting our schools up for failure. We need real leadership if we want to provide for our local school districts.”

What was supposed to be a time when the state Legislature was not scheduled to be in session has turned into a colossal waste of taxpayer funds. Currently, Gov. Hochul is costing taxpayers $40,000 per day in per diems and mileage to bring members back to Albany. That’s nearly $300,000 that could have been avoided had the Majority presented a budget on time. 

Hawley has introduced a proposal that would prevent the governor from receiving a paycheck until the budget is passed. Currently, the same standard is applied to the state Legislature, and Hawley believes this should be the case for the governor as well.

“The fact that the governor can continue to hold up budget negotiations and still cash her paychecks is completely ridiculous,” said Hawley. “Working New Yorkers across this state understand that if you don’t do your job, you don't get paid. We cannot continue to waste taxpayer dollars while making zero progress on the budget. There’s no reason why Gov. Hochul should not be held to the same standard as every other elected official in the Capitol.”

Press Release:

The Batavia Concert Band is beginning its 101st season, and is actively recruiting youth musicians to join us for a couple of amazing concerts in beautiful Centennial Park this summer!

Eligible student musicians need to be able to play level 2/3 music.

Session One

Tues. July 8 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Tues. July 15 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Tues. July 22 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Wed. July 23 - 6:30 p.m. Arrival, 7 p.m. Concert in Centennial Park

Session Two

Tues. July 29 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Tues. Aug. 5 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Tues. Aug. 12 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Wed. Aug. 13 - 6:30 p.m. Arrival, 7 p.m. Concert in Centennial Park

For more information, please contact Lindsey Almeter at Lalmeter@albionk12.org or 716-949-5376.

The registration link may be found here Cadet Band registration.

Press Release:

Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Genesee County has established a scholarship opportunity to provide financial support to an individual pursuing their education at an institution of higher learning in the fields that represent the mission of Cornell Cooperative Extension. 

Applicants must be a student in Genesee County and accepted at an accredited college or university and enrolled in or matriculated in an eligible program or major. Eligible programs or majors that fall under: Agriculture, Animal Science, Horticulture, Environmental & Nature, Food & Agribusiness, Food Systems & Technology, Nutrition, and Youth Development. 

Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to one Genesee County HS student and one adult student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree. Applications must be received by May 2, and the scholarship recipients will be announced at the CCE Genesee’s Board Meeting in May.

For more information, please contact our office at 343-3040 or visit our website at https://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/about-us/2025-cce-genesee-scholarship. 

Press Release:

As part of our ongoing effort to ensure public safety and maintain a smooth flow of traffic, the Batavia Police Department would like to remind residents and visitors of the importance of adhering to parking regulations in our city. 

Did you know that improperly parked vehicles can: 

• Block traffic lanes and sidewalks, causing congestion and hazards for pedestrians and motorists alike.
• Obstruct emergency responders, such as fire trucks and ambulances, from reaching their destinations quickly.
• Limit parking availability for businesses, residents, and visitors, negatively impacting local commerce and quality of life. 

To avoid fines and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Batavia, please remember to: 

• Park in designated parking spaces only, and within the marked lines.
• Avoid parking in areas with posted "No Parking" signs or zones.
• Keep a safe distance from fire hydrants, crosswalks, and intersections.
• Be mindful of time restrictions and parking permits in designated areas. 

All parking regulations for the City of Batavia can be found in the Batavia Municipal Code. 

By following these simple guidelines, you can help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for everyone in Batavia. 

Remember, parking regulations are in place to protect you, your neighbors, and our community. If you have any questions or concerns about parking regulations in Batavia, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Batavia Police Department. 

Together, let's make our city a better place to live, work, and visit!
 

Press Release:

The New York State Governor’s Youth Council is seeking passionate, dedicated youths ages 13-21 to apply for their 2025-2026 term. Members of the Youth Council meet virtually with their Regional Peers and Regional Representative at least twice a month. Members also participate with Statewide Peers at youth led events. 

2025-26 Topics Include:

• Youth Mental Health
• Social Media Impact on Youth
• Justice, Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion
• Youth Voice & Engagement
• Environmental Changes to Our Communities

How to Apply:

Those youth interested in applying will need to complete an online application process. Applications are due Monday, May 19. Visit, https://nysylc.secure-platform.com/a/ to apply now.

If you want to make a lasting impact on issues you see in your community, please apply. You can be the voice and change you want to see. 

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

Press Release:

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the release of a newly updated Barn Quilt Trail brochure and companion website, enhancing the way locals and visitors can experience one of the largest collections of hand-painted barn quilts in New York State. 

Created by Le Roy Historian Lynne Belluscio and the Le Roy Historical Society, the self-guided driving tour now features nearly 120 barn quilts throughout Le Roy and the surrounding countryside. The updated brochure and interactive website at LeRoyBarnQuilt.org offer full-color photos, quilt stories, and four scenic driving routes that guide travelers through the rural beauty and charm of Genesee County.

“Folks really like the new brochures and are amazed at all the new barn quilts that have gone up recently,” said Belluscio. “Even local people who thought they had seen them all are going back out to find the new ones. They also enjoy using the barcode to learn more about the stories behind each quilt. We hope folks will see the billboard on the Thruway, take Exit 47, and enjoy the rural byways. Now’s a great time to look for them before the leaves come out—and of course, we hope they’ll stop to have something to eat while they’re in town.”

The Barn Quilt Trail began in 2011 as a bicentennial project for the Town of Le Roy and has since grown into a beloved regional attraction. Barn quilts now adorn barns, garages, homes, and other structures, each one a piece of public art that shares a unique story rooted in family heritage, community spirit, and local pride. 

These updated trail materials celebrate that storytelling tradition while making the experience more accessible and engaging for travelers seeking authentic, heritage-rich adventures. Barn quilt trails have become a hallmark of rural tourism, and in Le Roy, they represent a deep connection to agriculture, art, and history.

Printed brochures are available locally at the Genesee County Visitor Center (8276 Park Road, Batavia) and at many Le Roy locations, including:

Crocker’s Ace Hardware, Attic to Basement, Le Roy Post Office, Woodward Library, Le Roy Historical Society, Town and Village Offices, JELL-O Museum, No Finer Diner, Frost Ridge Campground, Timberline Campground, Genesee Country Campground, Tracy B’s Microbrewery, and Pully’s Farm Market.

Press Release:

You don’t want to miss this! On Thursday, May 1, the Friends of Richmond Memorial Library will hold their Monthly Book Sale in the Wilber-Fox Room from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. It’s the perfect time to find something special for Mother’s Day, or…just because.

Visit the Reading Room at 3 p.m. to enjoy the theatrical talents of The GeriActors & Friends. This wonderful group develops performer-created theatre and performance-based activities that are of high quality and that foster positive intergenerational interaction and authentic views of aging. This exceptional and inclusive group will be performing one show only, so be there for something extra special. This program is free to attend and all are welcome.

While you’re here for these exciting events, eligible voters are invited to participate in the 2025 Budget Vote and Trustee Election from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. in the Gallery Room. There are three trustee positions to be voted on.

Additionally, the Richmond Memorial Library is seeking an increase of 2%, or $27,905, for the 2025-2026 budget year, bringing the total appropriated amount to $1,423,188. The complete budget newsletter and annual report can be found at the library or at batavialibrary.org. 

The current president of the Board of Trustees, Leslie Moma, is running for re-election this year. She is a Landscape Architect for the NYS Department of Transportation and is active in the Batavia community, including serving as a member of the Board of Directors for GoArt! Leslie is committed to the mission of the library in its role as an integral community asset for Batavia and the larger community.

Rebecca Oshlag is a retired special education teacher, a professional storyteller, and an avid reader. Rebecca is currently an appointed member of the Board of Trustees and, if elected, will continue to advance the goals of the library and the Board. She feels honored to work with a group of individuals who spend considerable time and effort to promote the success of a community institution that provides services beyond lending books.

Marcia Bohn is proud to call Batavia home. Her relationship with the library has grown into a teaching role that she finds incredibly fulfilling. She volunteers locally and believes that being actively involved helps to strengthen the community we all share. 

She is excited to take the next step in her service journey and is hoping to become a member of the Board of Trustees to help ensure it continues to thrive and remain accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for every member of our community. 

Residents of Batavia City School District who are registered voters may vote in this year’s Budget Vote & Trustee Election.

For more information about Richmond Memorial Library, visit batavialibrary.org.

Press Release:

The Genesee County Republican Committee is seeking candidates to fill a vacancy for the position of Coroner.

Anyone interested in being considered for the position of Genesee County Coroner should apply to Scott D. German, Chairman, Genesee County Republican Committee, PO Box 171, Batavia, no later than May 9.

Press Release:

Community Care of Western New York, dba HomeCare & Hospice, is proud to join the nationwide celebration of National Volunteer Week, taking place April 20–26. This annual observance honors the remarkable individuals who generously give their time, talents, and compassion to support patients and families across our region.

Volunteers are at the heart of HomeCare & Hospice’s mission, offering companionship, comfort, and critical support services to those navigating serious illness or end-of-life care. Whether sitting bedside with patients or assisting with administrative tasks, their dedication ensures that no one walks their journey alone.

“Our volunteers are truly an extension of our caregiving team,” said Melissa Sullivan, CEO of Community Care of Western New York. “They bring light, comfort, and connection into the lives of those we serve. We are deeply grateful for every hour they contribute to our mission.”

This year, HomeCare & Hospice is pleased to recognize several volunteers who have achieved significant milestones in service hours, as well as warmly welcoming a new group of volunteers joining the team. These individuals exemplify the power of human kindness, and the profound difference one person can make.

Volunteer Milestones:

Wellsville Office

• Jeanie Rauber volunteered 115.75 hours in 2024, with 644.25 cumulative hours through 2024.

Allegany Office

• Susan Oakely volunteered 144.5 hours in 2024, with 282.75 cumulative hours.
• Gloria Brennan volunteered 109.5 hours in 2024, with 116.75 cumulative hours.

Arcade/Batavia Offices

• Jake M. volunteered 100 cumulative hours through 2024.
• Dawn Greene volunteered 200 cumulative hours through 2024.
• Susan Hengelsburg volunteered 500 cumulative hours through 2024.
• Patricia Rowbottom volunteered 600 cumulative hours through 2024.

“Each volunteer brings something unique—whether it’s a listening ear, a warm smile, or a steady presence,” said Cassie Kelsey, Staff & Outreach Coordinator. “It’s a privilege to work alongside them and to witness their impact firsthand.”

We are thrilled to welcome five new volunteers to our HomeCare & Hospice family, each bringing unique life experiences and heartfelt motivation to serve others. 

Sharon Butts, a retired ER nurse from UMMC, joins us as a patient volunteer in Batavia, eager to give back in her retirement. 

Also in Batavia, Kristine Gallop brings her compassion and care following her personal experience of caring for her father, with a background in occupational therapy and a love for cooking, golf, and travel. 

Anne Elliot, based in Arcade, is semi-retired and looks forward to providing comfort and support as a patient volunteer, drawing on her rural roots and love of the outdoors. 

Barbara Totten joins as an office volunteer in Batavia, whose lifelong commitment to community service and love for staying active is inspiring. 

And from our Allegany office, we welcome Audrey Sanay, born and raised in New York City and currently a student at Pitt-Bradford pursuing a degree in Exercise Science. Audrey enjoys orchestra, band, reading, and staying active, and is planning to continue her education through an accelerated nursing program. 

We are so grateful to have each of them on board and look forward to the meaningful impact they will make across our service areas.

As we celebrate National Volunteer Week, HomeCare & Hospice extend heartfelt thanks to all of our volunteers —past, present, and future. We are always seeking compassionate individuals interested in joining our volunteer team across Wyoming, Genesee, Allegany, and Cattaraugus Counties. Whether you have a few hours a week or a few hours a month, there is a place for you in our organization.

To learn more about becoming a volunteer with HomeCare & Hospice, please call 716-372-2106 or email ckelsey@homecare-hospice.org.

Press Release:

As a dog owner in the City of Batavia, it's essential to understand your role in keeping our community safe and clean.

The City of Batavia Municipal Code (BMC) outlines specific regulations to ensure the well-being of both humans and animals. By following these guidelines, you can be a responsible dog owner and contribute to a harmonious community. 

Licenses and Vaccinations 

According to BMC Section 40-11, all dogs over four months old must be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. Make sure to obtain a license from the City Clerk's office and keep your dog's vaccination records up to date. 

Leash Laws 

BMC Section 40-5 states that dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet in length when in public. This ensures the safety of both your dog and others in the community. Always keep your dog on a leash when walking them in public areas. 

Waste Disposal 

As a responsible dog owner, it's crucial to clean up after your pet. BMC Section 40-6 requires dog owners to immediately dispose of their dog's waste in a sanitary manner. Always carry poop bags with you and dispose of waste properly. 

Noise Control 

BMC Section 40-6 prohibits excessive dog noise that disturbs the peace. Be considerate of your neighbors and take steps to minimize your dog's barking. 

Be a Responsible Neighbor 

By following these guidelines, you can help maintain a safe and enjoyable community for everyone. Remember, being a responsible dog owner is not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility to your neighbors and your pet. For more information on this and other local ordinances please vist the City of Batavia Municipal Code, https://ecode360.com/BA1824. Let's work together to make our community a better place for all!

Press Release:

The Agriculture & NYS Horse Breeding Development Fund is proud to announce that the 2025 New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) “Night of Champions” will take place on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel in Batavia.

As the premier event of the NYSS season, the Night of Champions showcases the top two- and three-year-old Standardbreds bred, owned, and raced in New York State. With over $2.4 million in purse money awarded across the evening, the event represents the pinnacle of the harness racing calendar.

“We are excited to bring the Night of Champions back to Batavia Downs, where the event was last hosted in 2019,” said Ralph Scunziano, Executive Director of the Agriculture & NYS Horse Breeding Development Fund. “Batavia Downs has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to hosting world-class racing, and their upgraded clubhouse and facilities are sure to create another memorable experience for our horsemen, owners, and fans.”

Located between Buffalo and Rochester, Batavia Downs is centrally situated in Western New York’s agricultural hub, offering a unique opportunity to highlight both the sport of harness racing and the economic impact of equine breeding and training in the region. The half-mile track is well known for its quality surface and competitive racing.

The races will be streamed live on Batavia Downs’ YouTube page, and a live post-position draw will take place on Facebook ahead of the event. Pre-race commentary and on-site interviews with winning connections will also enhance the live broadcast experience.

“We are honored to have been selected to host this prestigious event here at Batavia Downs.  I appreciate the confidence that the Agriculture & NYS Horse Breeding Development Fund has in our team here and we will not let them down. Our track and facility will be ready to go, and we are prepared to celebrate the “Night of Champions” with all of the people that attend,” said Byron Brown, President and CEO of Western Regional Off Track Betting Corporation.

The 2025 Night of Champions will be the culmination of a 56-day NYSS season, beginning May 18 at Saratoga Raceway. Full schedules for the Sire Stakes, Excelsior Series, and County Fair Series are available at www.nysirestakes.com.

Press Release:

More than one billion people in 200 countries around the world will celebrate Earth Day on April 22. Reality Check teens started the celebration early by participating in a 3-day Earth Day Summit in Niagara Falls from April 13-15.

Seniors from Batavia High School, Judith Newton and Abbi Leone, joined youth from across Western New York and the Finger Lakes to learn about the impact of tobacco products and the tobacco industry’s manipulative and deceptive marketing tactics that attract and addict youth to nicotine.

The Summit was broken into two parts:

1. Monday, April 14 – a day of education with speakers from the Public Health Law Center, Monroe County Department of Environmental Services and Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, and sessions with youth leaders from all regions.
2. Tuesday, April 15 – “A Day of Poster Making” where youth created posters promoting cleaner, greener tobacco-free environments for Earth Day to display in their communities. Messages encouraged audiences to “Make Every Day Earth Day,” by eliminating tobacco product use and picking up tobacco product litter polluting our environment.

“This summit provides a platform for young people to share their ideas, concerns, and solutions for environmental challenges caused by tobacco products and the tobacco industry,” said Brittany Bozzer, Reality Check Coordinator, Tobacco-Free Genesee,
Orleans, Wyoming (TF-GOW). “It also helps shape the next generation of environmental leaders who will not only become active participants in protecting our environment, but to become champions for policy changes and solutions in their communities.”

“Tobacco doesn’t just negatively impact our health as individuals, it also endangers the health of our environment,” said Judith Newton, a senior at Batavia High School. “E-cigarette and cigarette waste makes its way into the environment and pollutes water, air and land with toxic chemicals.”

Niagara Falls lights up for Earth Day message. 

On Sunday, April 13, Niagara Falls was lit up in green to recognize Earth Day and the work the youth engaged in to preserve and protect the natural surroundings of this natural wonder.

Tobacco trash is an eyesore, as well as toxic litter.  

All tobacco litter, including cigarette butts, is harmful to the environment because they contain non-biodegradable plastic filters and leach toxic chemicals into the soil and water, impacting wildlife and ecosystems. The USDA estimates that about 360 billion cigarettes are consumed in the U.S. each year. Close to two-thirds of those butts — 234 billion — are tossed as litter.

Cigarettes make up the largest category of tobacco products and are the most polluted product, but as e-cigarette sales continue to rise, their contribution to environment waste is growing.

Harmful Components:

• Cigarette butts contain filters made of non-biodegradable plastic (cellulose acetate) that can take years to decompose.
• These filters contain and trap toxic chemicals, including nicotine, pesticides, and heavy metals (like arsenic and lead) that can leach into the environment.
• These chemicals can contaminate soil, water, and harm wildlife. 

Environmental Impacts:

• Water Pollution: Cigarette butts can be washed into drains and waterways, contaminating rivers, beaches, and oceans.
• Soil Contamination: The chemicals from cigarette butts can seep into the soil, potentially harming plants and organisms.
• Wildlife Harm: Animals can ingest cigarette butts, leading to poisoning or other health problems.
• Plastic Pollution: Cigarette butts are one of the most common types of litter, contributing to the overall problem of plastic pollution. 

Beyond Cigarette Butts:

• The entire tobacco lifecycle, from cultivation of tobacco crops to disposal of cigarette butts, has significant environmental impacts.
• Tobacco farming can lead to deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution.
• Tobacco product packaging also contributes to waste and litter. 

By addressing cigarette butt litter, we can support smokers in their quit attempts. 

Reducing the environmental impact of tobacco waste can raise awareness and potentially encourage smokers to consider quitting for their own health and the environment. For additional help, the New York State Quitline is a confidential service for all New York State residents who wish to overcome dependence on commercial tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. Free offerings include individualized coaching and assistance with quit-planning from highly trained tobacco treatment specialists, text and online chat support and free shipping of stop-smoking medications such as nicotine patches, nicotine lozenges or nicotine gum for those 18 and older.

Residents of all ages may contact the Quitline for support and educational materials. In addition, the Quitline encourages teens and young adults (ages 13-24) to text “DROPTHEVAPE” to 88709 to join “This Is Quitting,” a free texting support program for help with quitting vaping. For more information, text QUITNOW to 333888 or call 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866-697-8487) seven days a week, beginning at 9 a.m.