Skip to main content

news

From Hollywood to Pembroke: Composer's piece celebrating Voyager brings him home for debut of new piece

By Howard B. Owens
Pembroke Concert Band Philip Klein
John Bailey and Philip Klein.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Philip Klein is a successful film composer in Hollywood; still, it's nice to come home again and visit your alma mater.

Especially if the same high school orchestra that helped mold your talent is preparing to debut a piece you wrote and arranged.

"It's very meaningful to me, it's very special," Klein said. "My world in L.A. now. It is so fast-paced. Kind of crazy. So to come back here and just kind of have this moment that feels like a community again, you know, you don't really get that, and to share it with students. It's really special. It means a lot to me that they would even want something from me and that they would take the time to play it so well."

The piece is Flight of the Voyager, which tells the story of Voyager 2. The spacecraft was launched in 2018 and is the first craft to reach Uranus and Neptune and is the second craft to reach interstellar space.

The piece was written specifically for the Pembroke Concert Orchestra to perform.  It makes its international debut on May 30th at 6:30 p.m. in the Pembroke Junior-Senior High School Auditorium.

Klein graduated from Pembroke in 2003. He studied trumpet performance and composition at Northwestern University. In 2011, he was selected as one of six fellows with the Sundance Institute's Film Composing Lab. In 2009, he won Best Composing from the ATAS Foundation's College and Television Awards. He was a nominee in 2022 for best original score for an animated film, for Wish Dragon, from the International Film Music Critics. The same group named him Break Through Film Composer of the Year in 2021. He won the Alan Parsons Award in 2022 for Best Original Score Short Film (Who Goes There).

His film credits include Joker, The Mandalorian, Medieval, The Last Full Measure, Cicero in the Winter, and Clones Gone Wild, along with dozens of others where he participated in the scoring or orchestration.

"It's amazing to us that Mr. Klein wrote the piece for Pembroke, and our band director,  John Bailey, is wildly excited for our students to get to meet and work with him," said Superintendent Matthew Calderon.

At the rehearsal on Tuesday, Klein was clearly enjoying himself.

"It's a lot of fun for me to be back," Klein said. "First off, I mean, just to be in, in school with them again, and just the energy of seeing a group like that play together. And it's always fun to hear your piece of music played live for the first time. They did great; they worked really hard. And it's not an easy piece."

Pembroke Concert Band Philip Klein
Photo by Howard Owens.
Pembroke Concert Band Philip Klein
Photo by Howard Owens.
Pembroke Concert Band Philip Klein
Photo by Howard Owens.
Pembroke Concert Band Philip Klein
John Bailey
Photo by Howard Owens.
Pembroke Concert Band Philip Klein
Photo by Howard Owens.
Pembroke Concert Band Philip Klein
Photo by Howard Owens.
Pembroke Concert Band Philip Klein
Photo by Howard Owens.
Pembroke Concert Band Philip Klein
Photo by Howard Owens.
Pembroke Concert Band Philip Klein
Photo by Howard Owens.
Pembroke Concert Band Philip Klein
Photo by Howard Owens.

Holland Land Office Museum announces lineup of June events

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next presenter in our Guest Speaker Series on Wednesday, June 12 at 7 p.m. David Whitcombe is a member of the volunteer team at the Buffalo Maritime Center who has been working for years on a reproduction of the Seneca Chief packet boat in honor of the bicentennial of the Erie Canal in 2025. The boat is an exact replica of the one used by Governor DeWitt Clinton as he rode the canal at its opening. David will touch mainly on the construction of the boat itself as well as the historical, cultural and economic significance of the project. 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

"This project is made possible with funds from the statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by GO ART!" 

Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for the next edition of our Trivia Night @ the Museum on Thursday, June 13 at 7 p.m. In honor of the beginning of the Korean War in 1950, our topic will be the 1950s or also known as "The Fabulous Fifties." 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. 

As part of New York State's Path Through History Weekend on Saturday, June 15, the Holland Land Office Museum will be hosting a Military Timeline and Encampment featuring reenactors from many different time periods and conflicts from the history of the United States and New York. The event features an outdoor encampment in addition to indoor displays featuring equipment, weapons, and other artifacts. Visitors can interact with soldiers and sailors from the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Civil War, Spanish-American War, etc., and learn more about the life of a military man throughout time, their equipment, and the conflicts that they fought in. The museum itself will also be open as well, featuring exhibits relating to the local history of Genesee County. The event and museum will be open from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Museum admission is $5 for adults, $3 veterans/seniors/students, $1 for children, and $10 for a family of four. 

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next edition of its Guest Speaker Series on Thursday, June 20 at 7 p.m. Daisy Nicosia, the Curator/Archivist of the Seneca Falls Historical Society, will be presenting "To the Men of Enterprise & Capital: The Settling of Early 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 to attend. 

"When people do research, especially in the Central New York area, one question that they always ask is what are military land grants? How did settlers end up in Western New York state? “To Men of Enterprise and Capital” will go over the settling of early New York State, starting briefly with early colonists and indigenous tribes before expanding into the settlement of Western and Central New York." "This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by GO ART!" 

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next edition of our Java with Joe E morning coffee series on Thursday, June 27 at 9 a.m. Our Director, Ryan Duffy, will be presenting on the "Agrarian Opposition to the Holland Land Company," which details the conventions established in the late 1810s through the 1830s across Western New York in opposition to the policies' perception of the Holland Land Company. Admission is free with coffee and cookies. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you would like to attend. Thank you to Pub Hub Coffee for sponsoring Java with Joe for 2024. 

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next edition of its Concert Series on Friday, June 28 at 7 p.m. Don Dwyer will be playing "The Music of the Women of the Civil War." The program includes songs either written or inspired by women in the 1850s and 1860s. Admission is $5 or $4 for museum members. If you plan to attend, please contact the museum at 585-343-4727. "This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by GO ART!"

Terry Hills hosts golf tournament to assist JT Turnbull on his new journey

By Howard B. Owens
tournament-for-jt-turnbull
JT Turnbull with his friends at Terry Hills during a tournament to raise money to assist him. From left, John Adams, Alex Snell, Chase Monachino.
Photo by Howard Owens.

For Tom Turnbull, it was good to have his son, JT, back out at the golf course having a good time and to see all of the people who showed up to support JT on Saturday enjoying themselves despite the rain.

"That's what's important," Turnbull said.

It's also important, said Danielle Rotondo, general manager at Terry Hills, to help raise money to assist with JT Turnbull's adjustments to a changed life.

JT sustained serious injuries in a skiing accident on Jan. 27.  He suffered a spinal injury and can no longer walk.

Rotondo said the goal was to raise $10,000.

Tom Turnbull said all of the money—including donations through the ongoing GoFundMe campaign (now up to more than $76,000 with a goal of raising $100,000)—will help with home modifications, physical therapy, occupational therapy, any equipment he needs and any unpaid hospital bills.

"Every dollar will go to his journey to get better, and get adjusted to life," Turnbull said.

Tom Turnbull is amazed by Rotondo's support, saying the Rotondos are like a second family. Turnbull, former president of the Chamber of Commerce, works part-time at Terry Hills. He's also in two leagues. His wife, Michelle, plays in two leagues, and JT also plays in two leagues.

"This is our second home," he said.

Rontondo shared a similar view of the Turnbulls.

"The Turnbulls have been part of our family for years, whether through leagues, the Ladies' Association so I worked with Tom at the Chamber," Rotondo said. "When this happened, we all came together and said this is something we wanted to do for them. What better way (to help) than to put on a golf tournament?"

Turnbull said that JT has been doing well.

"He has got the most fantastic attitude," Turnbull says. "He's kept Michelle and me going for these last three months. He hasn't had hardly any bad days the whole time. He's looking forward. He's driving a car and being out here, and he's going to want to play wheelchair sports, and it's just really amazing. He still has a sense of humor. He still gives his parents a hard time."

JT said seeing all of the community support for him left him nearly speechless.

"It's unbelievable," he said. "The support we've received from my family and my friends, the entire community, it just goes to show you what a great place this is to live here in Batavia."

tournament-for-jt-turnbull
Photo by Howard Owens.
tournament-for-jt-turnbull
Photo by Howard Owens.
tournament-for-jt-turnbull
Photo by Howard Owens.
tournament-for-jt-turnbull
Photo by Howard Owens.

Tenney submits for $10M Genesee County infrastructure project as part of FY25

By Press Release

Press Release:

File photo of
Claudia Tenney.

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today announced the 15 projects she selected to submit to the House Appropriations Committee for consideration as part of the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Community Project Funding (CPF) process.

These projects will benefit New York’s 24th District by improving water infrastructure, creating essential public facilities, supporting public safety, and promoting community revitalization.

The CPF process allows localities and non-profits to submit federal funding requests for high-priority community projects with strong local support in New York’s 24th Congressional District. Each application was subjected to a rigorous review process to ensure that it is a sound use of taxpayer dollars and that applicants have a clear and accountable plan to spend funds on targeted projects within a year.  

A list of Tenney’s submitted FY25 CPF Requests can be found here, or below:

  • $4,528,000 for the Town of Phelps Sanitary Sewer Distribution Project
  • $2,500,000 for the Cayuga County Lake Protection Plan Project
  • $3,000,000 for the Village of Geneseo Water and Sewer Upgrades Project
  • $3,500,000 for the Village of Waterloo Rock Storm Sewer Replacement Project
  • $3,000,000 for the Town of Newfane Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades Project
  • $1,500,000 for the Village of Mexico’s Water System Improvements Project
  • $10,000,000 for the Genesee County Section 219 Environmental Infrastructure Project
  • $2,250,000 for the Town of Torrey Water District #2 Project
  • $2,000,000 for the Orleans County Public Safety Building Project
  • $1,000,000 for the City of Oswego New Police Station Project
  • $800,000 for the Town of Macedon Ambulance Relocation Project
  • $5,000,000 for the Town of Lyons Revival and Community Empowerment Project
  • $3,600,000 for Phase III of the City of Lockport’s Erie Canal Flight of Five Locks Rehabilitation Project
  • $3,000,000 for the Wyoming County Silver Lake Dredging Project
  • $4,050,000 for Jefferson County Installation of Runway 10 Omni-Directional Approach Lights at Watertown International Airport Project

"One of my top priorities in Congress is to ensure our community has the resources it needs to thrive, and the Community Project Funding program is a fantastic way to overcome bureaucratic red tape and return our hard-earned tax dollars to NY-24," said Congresswoman Tenney. "The Community Project Funding program allows our local communities to advocate for the best way to spend taxpayer dollars instead of relying on bureaucrats in Washington. These projects will benefit New York's 24th District by supporting water infrastructure programs, improving community safety, and creating essential public facilities that promote community revitalization. I am dedicated to fighting for these projects in the Appropriations process and will continue to be a tenacious advocate for our District in Congress."

Community leaders who worked with Congresswoman Tenney’s office on submitting funding proposals expressed their support for the projects below:

“On behalf of the Cayuga County Water & Sewer Authority, I want to extend my grateful appreciation to our Representative Congresswoman, Claudia Tenney for including the “Cayuga Lake Protection Project” in this year’s Community Project Funding, (CPF) grant selection process. And we do hereby commit to working with Congresswoman Tenney, as this project advances through these Appropriations Committee, to successfully Appropriate this Request for the Construction of the Cayuga Lake Protection Project. As this project will not only safeguard New York's Drinking Water Resources, it will also greatly aid in the Efficient removal of substandard private sewer treatment systems. Once more it will protect and safeguard the New York State Finger Lakes for Generations to come, for Clean Drinking Water Resources, Recreation, Boating, Fishing, Etc. It is anticipated that the Cayuga Lake Protection Project (CLLP) Sewer will Extend along the East Shore of Cayuga Lake from the Village of Aurora, NY, South to the Tompkins County line, serving an Estimated 450 homes. We thank Congresswoman Claudia Tenney for her Service to Cayuga County, and her consideration of this most significant project for these Estimated 450 homes on the Easterly Shores of Beautiful Cayuga Lake,” said Cayuga County Water & Sewer Authority Chairman Brian Dahl.

“Genesee County’s top priority is securing reliable and sustainable water through new water infrastructure. Given the magnitude of the need, we cannot do this alone, and we are grateful for the Congresswoman’s continued support to secure federal resources to meet this dire need,” said Genesee County Legislature Chair Rochelle M. Stein.

“On behalf of the residents of the Town of Phelps, I would like to say “Thank You” to Congresswoman Claudia Tenney for her support of our wastewater infrastructure project on Route 14. We are very thankful for Congresswoman Tenney moving our request to the Appropriations Committee for review and consideration. The sewer line project will work to enhance the viability of development in our town and will allow us to have intermunicipal agreements with the Town and City of Geneva. Federal funds for this project are essential for the timely construction of this project in an area which will service thousands of visitors to the Finger Lakes area. I would like to extend appreciation for all ofthe hard work and especially taking the time to listen to the needs of the people to Representative Claudia Tenney, New York District 24,” said Phelps Town Supervisor Bill Wellman.

“The Orleans County Public Safety Building is a vitally important epicenter for several functions of our government, housing the Sheriff, 911 Dispatch Center, District Attorney and Probation, so we are very appreciative to Congresswomen Tenny for making our project to upgrade this facility one the priority initiatives to be sent to the House Appropriations Committee. Our DPW team has worked closely with Sheriff Bourke and DA Cardone to design a project that addresses critical structural issues with the facility in the most cost-effective manner possible while also helping improve the overall functionality of the building. This is not just a building project, it is an investment in our community’s safety and security,” ​​said Orleans Legislature Chairman Lynne Johnson.

“The Town of Torrey and the residents of the Perry Point Water District are very happy to be included in the tremendous work Congresswoman Tenney is doing for our region. This grant would provide the residents with clean and safe drinking water as well as protect the pristine waters of Seneca Lake,” said Supervisor of the Town of Torrey Peter Martini.

“The people of the Village of Geneseo are extremely grateful to Congresswoman Claudia Tenney for selecting our vital infrastructure project as part of her 2025 Community Project funding grants for consideration by the Appropriations Committee. These funds will enable us to replace 125 year old water mains and eliminate flooding damage from the combined sewer system and stormwater overflows,” said Village of Geneseo Mayor Chris Ivers.

“On behalf of the residents of Wyoming County, especially those living around Silver Lake, and the Board of Supervisors, I extend our sincere appreciation for Congresswoman Tenney’s selection of the Silver Lake dredging project to submit to the House Appropriations Committee. Congresswoman Tenney understands and shares the values we hold as part of our proud agricultural heritage. An integral part of the environmental stewardship we are tasked with is to fulfill our mission of a healthier and more resilient Silver Lake. It is not only an essential component of our county’s robust tourism industry, but is also a prime drinking water source for multiple communities spanning Wyoming and Livingston counties. This important funding will help to preserve sensitive habitats, protect water quality, and enhance public waterway access. We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Tenney for her unwavering support in this project and for Wyoming County,” said Wyoming County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Becky Ryan.

"We are grateful for the Congresswoman's support. This project will provide improved visibility for pilots during poor visibility conditions in order to maximize operations during low visibility and cloud conditions when winds require use of the runway 10," said Director of Aviation of Watertown International Airport Grant W. Sussey.

“The Historic Flight of Five Locks, located in the heart of the city of Lockport, NY is the largest remaining intact section of the historic Erie Canal, and this funding will help further revitalize a true 19th century engineering marvel. The rehabilitation of the Flight of Five Locks is anticipated to significantly increase the number of visitors and the amount of tourist spending in the city of Lockport and greater Niagara County, making this project an economic development driver for the entire Western New York region,” said City of Lockport Mayor John Lombardi.

“The City of Lockport has maintained a steadfast approach for many years to capitalize on its unique heritage assets, most notably, the Historic Erie Canal Flight of Five Locks. The Flight of Five is a site that has positioned itself to become the premier destination for visitors and residents looking to learn more about our historic Erie Canal,” said Senator Ortt. “Thank you to Congresswoman Tenney for submitting the Lock 67 & 68 restoration project to the House Appropriations Committee and securing funding to bring this important piece of history back to life. These efforts will continue to make the Erie Canal and the City of Lockport an economic driver for all of Western New York,” said NYS Senator Robert G. Ortt, 62nd Senate District.

"Congresswoman Tenney’s extraordinary commitment for the preservation of the Flight of Five Locks is truly a significant milestone in the continued and long-term capital objective in fully restoring this historic treasure. I applaud Congresswoman Tenney for listening and working closely with state and local officials to make this a top priority for our region and have found this to be one of the finest collaborations of officials working together during my time in public service. The Erie Canal and the Flight of Five has been the epicenter of Lockport’s rich history, economic development and tourism opportunities and Congresswoman Tenney’s fierce advocacy and strong support at the federal level is a very important step in ensuring this mission continues in Lockport for generations to come,” said NYS Assemblyman Michael J. Norris, 144th District.

"We are very thankful that Congresswoman Tenny has identified the Flight of Five locks as one of her priority projects for funding, continuing to build upon the previous investments that have been made in the project," said Niagara County Legislator Rick Abbott. "This project is about restoring an important piece of our history to help drive future economic growth and build upon Lockport's reputation as a center for heritage tourism,” said Niagara County Legislator Richard E. Abbott, 13th District.

“On behalf of the Town of Newfane, I want to say “Thank You” to Congresswoman Claudia Tenney for supporting the critical improvements to the Town of Newfane’s wastewater treatment plant. This project is all about ensuring the health of Newfane residents and the Lake Ontario watershed. The Town of Newfane works hard to build on the extensive amount of sport fishing and water-based business in the community; these improvements to the wastewater treatment plant will solidify those plans. With the help from Congresswoman Tenney we will be able to lift the financial burden off of our residents and guarantee a healthy community,” said Newfane Town Supervisor John Syracuse.

Lewiston Road resident reportedly fires on deputy responding to burglary report

By Howard B. Owens

An 81-year-old man whom investigators believe was injured during an attempted burglary of his residence on Tuesday morning reportedly exchanged gunfire with a deputy who responded to 7924 Lewiston Road at 3:41 a.m. to a reported burglary.

Neither the deputy nor the resident, identified as Gregory Poole, were injured in the incident.

According to the Sheriff's Office, a deputy -- not identified -- responded to the call and was approaching the home when he confronted a person outside the residence. The deputy identified himself, and the person fired a gunshot in the direction of the deputy. The deputy returned fire while continuing to identify himself, but the person continued to fire his gun.  

The deputy took cover and called for backup. 

Upon the arrival of a second deputy, the person was taken into custody without further incident. 

The Sheriff's Office says that neither the deputy nor the subject were struck by gunfire, and neither sustained an injury as a result of the gunfire.

The type of firearm used by the subject has not been released.

Poole was reportedly injured in a struggle with the burglary suspect.

It's believed the burglary suspect fled the scene before the deputy arrived. The area was searched, but the suspect was not located.

Once Poole was released from the hospital, he was charged with reckless endangerment in the first degree and menacing a police officer. He was arraigned and released on his own recognizance.

The Sheriff's Office states that the investigation into both the burglary and the gunfire is ongoing.

Police investigating burglary at Batavia Marine

By Howard B. Owens

Batavia PD is investigating a burglary at Batavia Marine and Sporting Supply Store, 411 West Main St., that occurred during the early morning hours of May 27.

Patrol officers responded to a burglary alarm at 2:30 a.m. and, upon arrival, discovered evidence of forced entry into the building.

Further investigation revealed that the property was taken from the building.

The police did not release the nature of the property taken.

Detectives responded to the scene to gather additional evidence.

Anyone with any information regarding the incident is asked to contact Detective Jason Ivison by calling 585-345-6350 or submitting by clicking here.

Batavia Marine has operated by appointment only since July.

Previously: By appointment only: Mike Barrett winding down after 50-plus years at Batavia Marine

Mattel donates four cases of Hot Wheels cars to local law enforcement in honor of Sgt. Sanfratello

By Press Release
hot wheels sanfratello donation
Batavia Police Officer Wesley Rissinger; Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, CID Chief Deputy Joseph Graff; Director of Emergency Communications Frank Riccobono, retired Emergency Services Dispatcher Lynn Riccobono; Sergeant Kyle Krzemien, Genesee Justice Program Coordinator Diana Prinzi, Justice for Children Advocacy Center Program Coordinator Trisha Reynolds, Undersheriff Bradley Mazur; Corfu Police Officer Tommy LaBelle; Le Roy Police Officer Jordan Wolcott.
Submitted Photo.

Press release:

Genesee County Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello passed away in the line of duty on March 10, 2024. While he will be remembered for his many contributions to the Sheriff’s Office and the Genesee County community, everyone may not be aware that he was also known for his love of Hot Wheels die-cast cars. 

Shortly after Sergeant Sanfratello’s passing, retired Emergency Services Dispatcher Lynn Riccobono wanted to do something to honor Tommy. Riccobono, who worked her entire career at the Sheriff’s Office with Sergeant Sanfratello, knew that he kept Hot Wheels cars in his office drawer and would give them to children who came into the Sheriff’s Office.  Riccobono reached out to Mattel, Inc. (the manufacturer of the Hot Wheels cars) and told them Sergeant Sanfratello’s story.  Mattel, Inc. responded by graciously shipping four cases of Hot Wheels cars along with their condolences for the loss of Sergeant Sanfratello.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is sharing this donation with other Genesee County police agencies, Genesee Justice, and the Justice for Children Advocacy Center to distribute the cars to children they interact with in Sergeant Sanfratello’s honor.

hot wheels sanfratello donation
Submitted Photo.
hot wheels sanfratello donation
Submitted Photo.

Driver cited in serious injury accident at Jackson and Ellicott

By Howard B. Owens
ellicott accident may 2024
File photo by Howard Owens

The driver of a 2012 Ford Focus involved in a collision with a tractor-trailer on May 17 at Ellicott Street and Jackson Street in Batavia, has a received traffic citation following an investigation by Batavia PD.

Emma Durnham, 24, of Avon, was cited for allegedly passing a red traffic light. 

Durham and a passenger, not identified by police, were seriously injured in the accident, but both have been released from the hospital and are expected to make full recoveries, according to police.

The truck driver, Michael Johnson, 48, of North Tonawanda, was not cited and was not injured in the collision.

The accident was reported at 9:30 p.m. on May 17, and Batavia PD, along with City Fire, Oakfield Fire, Town of Batavia Fire, and Mercy EMS. Due to a shortage or of ambulances at the time, volunteer crews from Byron and Darien responded to the city to assist with other calls.

The Ford Focus was reportedly southbound on Jackson Street and allegedly ran a red light at the intersection of Ellicott Street and was struck by a southbound tractor-trailer (note: Jackson runs north and south, Ellicott Street (Route 63 is considered a north-south road).

The Ford Focus came to rest in the gas lane (but did not strike a pump) of the Kwik Fill at 99 Jackson St., and firefighters had to extricate both occupants.

The Sheriff's Office Crash Management Team assisted with the accident investigation.

Previously: Tractor-trailer vs. car accident reported at Jackson and Ellicott, Batavia

Batavia boys win eighth sectional title in Track and Field

By Staff Writer
batavia track team
Submitted photo.

The Batavia Boys Track and Field team won its eighth sectional championship on Friday with 148.5 points in the Class B1 division, beating out Honeoye Falls/Lima, the runner-up with 131 points.

Batavia's scores include:

  • Parris Price:  1st 110 Hurdles (15.25), 4th 200m (23.34)
  • Cameron Garofalo: 1st 800m (2:00.11), 2nd 3000m Steeple (10:48.24), 3rd 1600m (4:35.09)
  • Sheldon Siverling:  1st Shot Put (56-6), 1st Discus (154-10)
  • Grant Gahagan: 1st High Jump (5-10)
  • Justin Smith: 2nd Discus (139-4), 3rd Place High Jump (5-8)
  • Jamari Irvin:  2nd Pentathlon (2591 points)
  • Da'Von Gallo Williams - 3rd place Long Jump (20-2.45)
  • Mekhi Fortes:  3rd Shot Put (49-6)
  • Karvel Martino:  4th Shot Put (46-7.75)
  • Tym Murrell:  4th Pentathlon (2275 points)
  • Isaac Varland:  4th Discus (133-7)
  • Donavin Solis:  5th 1600m (4:47.44), 5th 3200m (10:36.31)
  • Brian Calderon: 5th Shot Put (44-3.5)
  • Emmanuel Richardson:  5th HIgh Jump (5-8)
  • Cooper Konieczny:  5th 400 Hurdles (1:02.40)
  • Brock Warren: 6th Pentathlon  (2234 points)
  • Nate Kinsey:  6th 3200m (10:51.4)
  • Kahler Evans: 6th 3000m Steeple (11:19.89)

Also, all 3 relays finished in 2nd place

  • 4x100m (Zailen Griffin, Parris Price, Trevor Tryon, Isaac Varland) 44.41
  • 4x400m (Trevor Tryon, Parris Price, Isaac Varland, Cameron Garofalo (3:30.73)
  • 4x800m (Nate Kinsey, Grant Gahagan, E'Nhazje Carter, Donavin Solis (8:53.84) 

"This was a very tough and competitive meet, and Batavia Track and Field really rose to the occasion," said Coach Nick Burk. We had many personal best performances, and our athletes never gave up. We certainly represented our school positively and demonstrated resilience throughout the competition. I was also very glad that our relays performed so well, with many athletes needing to step up in order for us to win. Including Indoor and Outdoor track, this is our program's 44th Sectional championship."

For full results, click here.

Photo's: Memorial Service at the Jerome Center in Batavia

By Staff Writer
img_9890.jpeg
A large attendance during the Memorial Service at the Jerome Center at Rochester Regional Health.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_6087.jpeg
Barbara Coe leads prayer for everyone.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_6090.jpeg
The crowd participates during the National Anthem of the Memorial Service at the Jerome Center.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_9888.jpeg
Batavia Concert plays some patriotic music during the Memorial Service.
Photo by Nick Serrata.

Photos: A rainy start to Batavia's Memorial Day parade

By Staff Writer
img_9877.jpeg
City of Batavia Police Department leads the way during the Batavia Memorial Day parade.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_6060-1.jpeg
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_6079.jpeg
American flag display as participants pass by during the parade.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_6064.jpeg
Some of the crowd hide under the trees to stay dry during the parade.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_9880.jpeg
A member of the NYS Police Department drives his cruiser with a military veteran.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_6066.jpeg
Some of the Batavia Muckdogs participated in the Batavia Memorial Day parade.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_9883.jpeg
Both parade participants and parade-goers try to stay dry.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_6062.jpeg
Batavia Fire Department walking in the parade.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_6074.jpeg
Both parade participants and parade goers trying to stay dry.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_6072.jpeg
Members of the Genesee County Spartans showed of their American pride during the Batavia Memorial Day parade.
Photo by Nick Serrata.

Photos: Alexander Memorial Day parade and ceremonies

By Staff Writer
alexander memorial day parade

Photos by Philip Casper

alexander memorial day parade
alexander memorial day parade
alexander memorial day parade
alexander memorial day parade
alexander memorial day parade
alexander memorial day parade
alexander memorial day parade
alexander memorial day parade
alexander memorial day parade
alexander memorial day parade
As part of Memorial Day ceremonies in Alexander, the Alexander Volunteer Fire Department dedicated three new flag poles at the department's Rec Hall on Monday. The flag poles were erected as an Eagle Scout project for Nate Foss (kneeling, center).
Photo by Heidi McPhee

Photos: Vietnam Veterans Memorial at the Genesee County Park

By Staff Writer
img_9852.jpeg
The local Veteran Honor Guard helps carry the salute during the ceremony.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_6048.jpeg
The color-guard gets ready for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_9848.jpeg
Ray Cummings leads the prayer.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_9850.jpeg
Veterans and crowd participating in the National Anthem.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_9857.jpeg
New York State Assemblyman Steve Hawley delivers his speech.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
img_6049.jpeg

Photos: Memorial Day weekend ceremonies at WNY National Cemetery

By Staff Writer
vets cemetery memorial day
The National Anthem was sung by Amanda Werner.
Photo by Nick Serrata

On Saturday, area veterans gathered at the WNY National Veterans Cemetery in Pembroke to remember those who have served their country and have passed.

This was the third consecutive year for the Memorial Day weekend event.

For details on Monday's Memorial Day events, click here.

vets cemetery memorial day
Photo by Nick Serrata
vets cemetery memorial day
Rev. Robert Elkins leads the Invocation.
Photo by Nick Serrata
vets cemetery memorial day
Orleans County Honor Guard provides a salute.
Photo by Nick Serrata
vets cemetery memorial day
Audience participates in Pledge of Allegiance.
Photo by Nick Serrata.
vets cemetery memorial day
Photo by Nick Serrata.
vets cemetery memorial day
Photo by Nick Serrata.

Donation will help HLOM inform visitors of Revolutionary War patriots who settled Genesee County

By Howard B. Owens
DAR HLOM check presentation
Tyler Angora, HLOM curator receives a check from DAR member Robin Ettinger in front of a Revolutionary War drum.
Photo by Howard Owens.

The men from Genesee County who fought in the War of 1812, the Civil War, and the wars of the 20th Century are well represented in the Holland Land Office Museum.

The men who served the cause of freedom starting in 1776 are less well represented, and the HLOM, with the help of the Anna Ingalsbe Lovell Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, hopes to provide visitors to the museum information on those men who fight for liberty and then helped settle Western New York.

On Saturday, DAR members presented Tyler Angora, HLOM curator, with a check for $700 -- a $500 grant from DAR and $200 from the local chapter -- to create a display honoring the patriots who settled present-day Genesee County and immediately contiguous towns.

"There are a lot of people buried here but why did they come here? What did they do to help found our county?" said DAR member Robin Ettinger. "This is what our project is about."

In the past, DAR members identified all the patriots who purchased property from the land office and those names are already listed in a book in the research room. There are also men who acquired land in the county before the Holland Land Office started selling plots. 

Western New York was not part of the colonies at the start of the Revolution.

The Senecas did not cede control of Western New York until the Treaty of the Big Tree in 1797. In the treaty, the Senecas agreed to establish residences on reservations in the territory and receive $100,000 (about $1.8 million today) for 3.75 million acres of land. 

The Holland Land Company participated in the negotiations after acquiring rights a portion of the territory from Robert Morris in 1792. 

Joseph Ellicott started surveying the land in 1798. Two years after Ellicott completed the survey, new settlers were able to buy plots of land in Genesee County (then, all of Western New York).

The project involved creating a slideshow of names and background information on the patriots to display on a flat-screen TV in the War Room.

"Right now, the only Revolutionary War piece that we have is the drum (acquired by a prior, now defunct DAR chapter)," Angora said. "We do talk about it on tours and stuff, but people don't actually get to see the men; they don't get to see their history. Ryan (Duffy, HLOM director) and I don't personally have the time to do that (put the display together). We're running the entire museum. We've wanted to expand this because the rest of the War Room has all the veterans listed except this part."

He said the TV will show a slide show of the men sharing their stories and showing their connections to this county and how they built this county, Angora said.

"We've researched them and we found a lot of men who purchased large plots, multiple plots in certain sections," Angora said. "Once the land office was here, they started flooding into this area to start farming because it was wilderness and it was a good opportunity for those patriots to come and build their lives here."

DAR members concentrate a lot on history and geology because in order to become a member, you must document that you have an ancestor who was either a patriot or supported a patriot at home.

Most of the patriots were farmers, but they were also mill owners, tavern owners, and shopkeepers.

"There's a lot of farmers and they just came out this way and had to have that tenacity to -- especially the women -- to say let's go out there and build log cabin. So the whole focus is what these guys did, who they were in the war, and they came out here and settled our area."

Local youth fight back against ‘Big Tobacco’

By Press Release
batavia-attica-rc-matl-2024.jpg
Reality Check advocates Sophia Biniaszewski, Trinnity Whatle and Judith Newton use a selfie frame to tell Big Tobacco what they think about their products and marketing.
Submitted photo.

Press Release:

Last week, Abbi Leone and Judith Newton, both juniors at Batavia High School, as well as Attica High School ninth graders Sophia Biniaszewski and Trinnity Whatle, joined more than fifty youths and advocates from nine national organizations to protest Altria Group, Inc.’s 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. 

These advocates held a demonstration outside Altria’s Washington, D.C. office, while several youth activists had proxy tickets to directly address Altria’s executives and ask questions during the virtual shareholders’ meeting.

“I’m so proud of Abbi, Judith, Sophia, and Trinnity for fighting against the manipulative tactics the tobacco industry uses to target them,” said Brittany Bozzer, Youth Coordinator at Tobacco-Free Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming (TF-GOW). “Now that they have shared their voice in Washington, D.C., they plan to continue to address the challenges of tobacco use in their communities back home, as well as mobilize their peers to take action.” 

This year marks the ninth consecutive year that Mobilize Against Tobacco Lies (MATL), a collaborative of youth programs and national partners, gathered to expose and fight back against the tobacco giant’s lies.

Reality Check youth from across New York State rallied with a coalition of tobacco control youth programs and national partners including Dover Youth to Youth of New Hampshire, Wisconsin FACT, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, Traditional Tobacco Voices, American Indian Cancer Foundation, Corporate Accountability, Counter Tools, Center for Black Health and Equity and Truth Initiative.

Altria and its Philip Morris subsidiary sell the number one most popular cigarette brand among kids, Marlboro, and its John Middleton subsidiary sells one of the most popular cigar brands among kids, Black and Mild. Altria has a long history of targeting kids and other vulnerable groups with its products and invested in Juul at the height of the youth e-cigarette epidemic. 

Altria claims to be “moving beyond smoking,” but the truth is that they make most of their revenue from cigarettes and fight real efforts to reduce smoking – such as bans on menthol cigarettes.

Despite Altria and the tobacco industry’s efforts, the United States has made great progress in reducing youth smoking. However, the latest government survey shows that 2.8 million U.S middle and high school students still use tobacco products, including 2.13 million who use e-cigarettes.

Reality Check is a teen-led, adult-run program that seeks to prevent and decrease tobacco use among young people throughout New York State.  

For more information about Reality Check, visit realitycheckofny.org. 

Madisonation announces 13th annual golf tournament August 10

By Press Release

Press Release:

Madisonation, an annual golf tournament dedicated to raising awareness and funds for children battling cancer, announces its 13th annual tournament on Saturday, August 10, at the LeRoy Country Club located at 7759 E. Main Rd, LeRoy.

Initiated by Kevin Muckle in 2011, Madisonation serves as a testament to the resilience and triumph over adversity, inspired by his daughter Madison Marie Muckle's battle with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia cancer. Madison, diagnosed just after her 3rd birthday in 2010, endured relentless treatments for 2 ½ years until her last chemotherapy session in April 2013. Now 16 years old and cancer-free, Madison seeks to extend a helping hand to others grappling with this relentless disease.

Madisonation, affectionately termed, embodies a community's collective effort in rallying behind those affected by childhood cancer. Over the past 12 years, the tournament has raised over $85,000 in donations, benefitting families and organizations dedicated to alleviating the burdens faced by cancer-stricken children. 

Beneficiaries have included prominent institutions such as Golisano Children's Hospital, Ronald McDonald House, Make A Wish Foundation, and Michael Napoleone Foundation, as well as numerous families confronting the harsh realities of pediatric cancer.

This year, Madisonation pledges its support to the family of Ellie Porter, a brave soul battling Hepatoblastoma, a form of liver cancer. Diagnosed at the tender age of 2 in October 2023, Ellie's journey has been arduous, with the cancer spreading to her lungs necessitating urgent treatment and a liver transplant. 

Madisonation aims to alleviate the financial strain on Ellie's family, led by her parents Jackie and Jeffrey, who have been tirelessly seeking treatment in Pittsburgh.

In a bid to raise funds, Madisonation appeals to the community for support through donations of signed memorabilia, tickets, items, or services for raffle during the tournament. Contributors will be duly acknowledged in the tournament brochure, website, and social media campaign.

For those interested in contributing or seeking further information, please contact Kevin Muckle at 585-300-7499. Donations can be mailed to Madisonation at 30 Lake St., LeRoy.

Madisonation stands as a beacon of hope, symbolizing solidarity in the fight against childhood cancer, underscoring the power of collective action in making a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected. Join us in our quest to turn adversity into triumph and support warriors like Madison and Ellie in their battle against cancer.

Authentically Local