A black dog, possibly a pit bull mix, with a patch of white on its chest, was found dead in the street after it was apparently hit by a motor vehicle Friday night. State police was at the scene and said the dog was going to be taken care of and removed from the scene.
The dog was found at approximately 10:30 p.m. in the 4100 block, on the north side of West Main Street. The dog did not have a collar and the owner had not been located at the time.
Two attempted assault 1st charge has been lodged against a man accused of firing a shotgun and wounding two people on Aug. 12 at 2 Elm St., Batavia.
Jeremy Ives, no address or age provided, was also charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon 2nd, kidnapping 2nd, criminal use of a firearm 1st and 2nd, and menacing 2nd.
Detectives believe the weapon used was a shotgun and that Ives possessed it unlawfully.
They say Ives fired one shot.
One person was transported to an area hospital and released after treatment. Another person was treated at the scene and released.
Police say that after the shooting, Ives fled in a vehicle with other passengers and that one of the passengers attempted to exit the vehicle multiple towns and that Ives threatened the passenger.
The motive for the shooting is still under investigation.
Ives and a victim may have known each other.
Following arraignment in City Court, Ives was ordered jailed without bail.
The statement from Batavia PD reads: "The Batavia Police Detective Bureau would like to thank the public for their assistance in providing information regarding the shooting. The Batavia Police Department would also like to thank the Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center, the City of Batavia Fire Department, and Mercy EMS for their assistance on scene as well as the Erie County Crime Analysis Center and Unified Court Security personnel."
The investigation is on-going and anyone else with information is asked to contact Batavia Police Detective Jason Ivison at (585) 345-6312.
The Sheriff's Office is asking people not to leave purses and other valuable items in vehicles because they become targets of a criminal gang that is roaming the region.
The Felony Lane Gang is believed to be behind a rash of smash-and-grab purse thefts from vehicles at hiking areas, bike trails, county parks, local parks and other parking lots.
The Sheriff's Office describes the gang as "well organized" and based in Flordia but is known to operate in the North East.
Gang members are believed to be responsible for these types of thefts in Erie, Monroe, and Genesee County in recent weeks.
Once the purse is stolen, they use the victim's ID, credit cards, and checks to commit identity theft and related crimes.
"The Sheriff's Office is advising the public not to leave anything of value inside your vehicle while unoccupied," according to a news release. "Any suspicious activity should be reported to the police immediately."
The Felony Lane Gang first made news in Genesee County in January 2020 when a man believed to be associated with the gang was killed in an accident while fleeing from law enforcement in Alexander.
David Burke won the "People's Choice" award in the Batavia Society of Artists' summer show on display now through Sept. 30 at GO Art!
His painting is titled "Garden of the Mystic" and he described it as an intuitive painting.
Other artists in the show are Shauna Blake, Joan D'Alba, Richard Ellington, Kevin Feary, Nikki Greenbaum, Brian Kemp, Julie Lambert, Adrian Morris, Madeleine Rusch, Teresa Tamfer, Morgan Wagner, and Lydia Zwierzynski.
Brian Kemp with "Artsperience," a mixed-media piece that was a collaboration with his 14-year-old niece Danielle Jefferson. Kemp met her for the first time this summer during a trip to North Carolina and found out that she is a young artist. She showed him a drawing but said she didn't like it and intended to destroy it. Kemp told her to give it to him, he said. She did, and he finished the painting and then mounted it on a chunk of scrap iron he had in his storage shed.
Press release:
Christopher Budzinack has a straightforward reason for agreeing to speak at next Wednesday’s Overdose Awareness Day: To show those affected by substance use disorder that there is hope and there is help.“As a person in long-term recovery, I know first-hand how important these services are and I want to help promote them as much as possible,” said Budzinack, a residential counselor at the Atwater Community Residence operated by Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse.
“It is my hope that someone will leave this event feeling encouraged and inspired to make a change for the better and for the ones who have lost someone to addiction, my hope for them is that they will know they are not alone and there is help for them as well.”
Budzinack, who also serves as a case manager for GCASA’s supportive living program, is one of several people signed up to speak at the annual event, which is set for 4-7 p.m. Aug. 24 at Austin Park in Batavia.
Designed to raise awareness of the opioid epidemic and remember the lives that have been lost due to an overdose, the event is being hosted by the GOW Opioid Task Force.
Task Force Coordinator Christen Foley said attendees are invited to take part in the family-friendly activities – which include face painting and live music -- and enjoy free pizza, refreshments, and ice cream. A Narcan training also is on the agenda and local agencies will have informational tables.
Participants also will be offered the opportunity to leave a note on the task force’s memory board for a deceased loved one.
Other speakers include Paul Pettit, public health director for Genesee and Orleans counties; John Bennett, GCASA chief executive officer; the Rev. Vern Saile, pastor of Northgate Free Methodist Church, and Jarett LoCicero, case manager at GCASA.
Press release:
Genesee County’s STOP-DWI Coordinator announced today that Genesee County law enforcement agencies, including the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, City of Batavia Police Department, and Village of LeRoy Police Department will be participating in a coordinated effort with the STOP-DWI program to bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving.
Law enforcement officers across New York State are taking to the roads in an effort to stop impaired driving, prevent injuries and save lives. The statewide STOP-DWI Campaign will start on Aug. 19 and will end on Sept. 5.
This event is one of many statewide enforcement initiatives promoted by the New York State STOP-DWI Association with additional funding from the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.
STOP-DWI efforts across New York have led to significant reductions in the numbers of alcohol and drug-related fatalities, however, still too many lives are being lost because of crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers. Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaigns aim to further reduce the incidence of drunk and impaired driving.
Always remember impaired driving is completely preventable. All it takes is a little planning.
PUBLIC NOTICE:
Town of Alexander Residents
There will be a budget workshop on August 29, 2022, at 6:00 p.m.
All are welcome to attend.
Publisher's Note: Legal Notices/Public Notices are published by The Batavian for free as a public service pending revision of state law that will allow digital news publications to publish legal notices that meet the legal requirements of such notices. Clerks: Email your notices to news@thebatavian.com
Press release:
The City of Batavia Water Department will be shutting down the water main on Oak St from the Richmond Ave intersection, to just north of Pickthorn Drive in the 110 block of Oak St today Friday, August 19, 2022.
Zoladz Construction will be abandoning the 6” water main on Richmond Ave. The length of time the water will be off is unknown.
As always, when the water is restored it may be discolored. Please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.
We apologize for any inconvenience and the public’s patience is greatly appreciated.
Press release:
Today's competitive workforce is in a constant state of evolution. The introduction of new systems, products and services, and the drive for improved efficiencies in an ever-challenging marketplace require employers to evaluate, update and realign teams to best meet the changing demands of their industry. To help employees build their skill sets and keep up, Genesee Community College is excited to offer enrollment for its Business and Commerce Micro-credential programs available this fall semester, which begins September 6, 2022.
Micro-credentials are academic programs, similar to degree programs, that have been dramatically trimmed to just 9 to 15 credit hours that include only core courses relevant to specific skills, training, and knowledge in that discipline. Designed to be earned in as quickly as one semester, a Micro-credential is the ideal way to build a resume to take advantage of career advancement opportunities, get started in a new industry or even to explore a career path without the commitment of an expensive or time-consuming four-year degree.
GCC's Micro-Credential programs offer students a high-quality education in a reduced time frame and limited cost - only course tuition plus course-related books and fees. Business and Commerce micro-credential programs available for enrollment for the Fall 2022 semester are:
- The Human Resource Management Micro-credential focuses on human resources including legal compliance, diversity and inclusion, succession planning, recruitment, retention, and much more!
- The Event Management Micro-credential provides value to anyone wanting to start a career in event planning, advance their career, or change careers and enter the event planning field.
- The Professional Sales Micro-credential provides up-and-coming as well as seasoned sales professionals across industry lines with a skill set that starts and actively advances professional careers in sales.
- The Entrepreneurship Micro-credential is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in new venture creation and operation. Micro-credential earners will be able to identify new business opportunities, research markets, understand costs, set prices and launch a new business or help an existing business to expand their product/service lines. Understanding entrepreneurship will provide earners with the power to expand their personal wealth or build their career as a key leader of an existing organization.
- The Supply Chain Management Micro-credential is designed to provide individuals with a broad understanding of the primary functions and coordination of areas ranging from purchasing, inventory control, warehouse management, operations, production and transportation.
- The Medical Office Assistant Micro-credential is designed to provide students with a firm foundation for the medical office environment, focused on development of a strong foundation of terminology, forms and billing, and medical office procedures.
- The Accounting Fundamentals Micro-credential is designed to teach individuals introductory financial, managerial and income tax skills with a focus on the use of computer technology for accounting applications.
"While none of us can predict the changes that will affect our industry, organization or jobs, the best way to "future proof" our careers is to consistently sharpen our skills and expand our capacity. As an example, GCC's HRM Micro-credential could prove to be very valuable to individuals working in a management capacity since it includes topics like how to building strong teams, how to motivate employees, how to think creatively and solve difficult problems in the workplace, and so much more. I would encourage you to take a moment and explore our offerings. We would love to help you grow your future!" Said Dr. Lina LaMattina, director of Business Programs.
The online learning component of micro-credentials is another way the programs enable student success, particularly for those who may be juggling the responsibility of family, healthcare needs, transportation issues or jobs. Upon completion of a micro-credential program, students receive an official college transcript that documents their earned academic credit as well as a specific digital badge that highlights those core skills and competencies that employers search for on resumes, LinkedIn pages and other social media channels. The digital badge, representing the earned micro-credential, sets a GCC candidate apart from the rest.
Additionally, earned micro-credentials generate SUNY academic college credits which are transferable and can be applied toward additional academic degrees in the future including:
- GCC associate degrees and certificates
- SUNY to SUNY Pathways and Seamless Transfer programs
- GCC's many (200+) transfer agreements with baccalaureate institutions
- Most colleges and universities nationwide
Tuition assistance is available through SUNY's Reimagine Workforce grant. For eligibility requirements, please contact Tish Williams, Project Coordinator, Stay Near, Go Far, Reimagine Workforce Grant at prwilliams@genesee.edu, 585-343-0055 Ext. 6318. Stay Near, Go Far is funded by a sub-award from the NYS Department of Labor through a U.S. Department of Education Stabilization Fund Reimagine Workforce Preparation grant, administered by SUNY RF.
For more information on GCC's Business and Commerce Micro-credentials, please contact Dr. Lina LaMattina, Director of Business programs at lmlamattina@genesee.edu, 585-343-0055 Ext. 6319.
Press release:
The Chamber’s Annual Awards Committee has announced the “2022” Annual Award Ceremony will be held on Saturday, March 11, 2023, at Batavia Downs Gaming, Park Road, Batavia. This is the County’s premier event that honors businesses and individuals for their achievements in business, community service, and volunteerism.
Please note that a brief write-up will qualify your nominee for consideration. Nominations are now being accepted for Business of the Year, Entrepreneurial Business of the Year, Agricultural Business of the Year, Innovative Enterprise of the Year, Special Service Recognition & Geneseeans of the Year. Business Nominees must be chamber members (If unsure of your nominee, call the Chamber to verify).
Nomination forms are available at the Chamber of Commerce office, 8276 Park Road, Batavia and can also be downloaded from the Chamber Website at www.geneseeny.com.
If you would like more information, feel free to call or email Kelly J. Bermingham, Director of Member Relations & Special Events at the Chamber office, 343-7440, ext. 1026, kbermingham@geneseeny.com.
A Batavia woman, who applied for and received unemployment benefits connected to COVID-19 relief programs that she was not entitled to, has been sentenced to six months in federal prison.
Danielle Tooley, 37, must also pay $18,000 in restitution to the federal government.
Tooley's scheme was uncovered by local law enforcement during a traffic stop on Nov. 24, when she was arrested for alleged criminal possession of a controlled substance following a traffic stop on Clinton Street Road in Bergen.
As officers prepared to tow Tooley's vehicle, they recovered six NYS unemployment benefit cards issued to people other than Tooley. They turned the cards over to the Department of Labor.
An investigation by the Inspector General revealed that Tooley had consistently withdrawn money from bank accounts associated with the cards.
She was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Booking Photo: From an unrelated arrest in Genesee County and obtained by The Batavian through a Freedom of Information Law request.
A request from the Health Department for information on a dog that bit a person on Aug. 2 failed to yield any tips, so the health department has offered the victim "post-exposure rabies treatment," according to Kaitlin Pettine, public information officer for the department.
According to the initial news release, a person was bitten on Jerome Place near East Main Street in the City of Batavia at 9 a.m. Aug. 2. The dog bit the victim's arm. The dog then ran across Main Street in a westerly direction.
The dog was described as a solid, dark gray dog with a bright blue collar. The dog resembled a pit bull or bulldog.
If you have information about the location of the dog and its owner, please contact the Genesee County Health Department at 585-344-2580, Ext. 5555.
There is no new information to share in the ongoing investigation of a shooting reported on Elm Street on Aug. 12, said Batavia PD Chief Shawn Heubusch.
Heubusch said detectives are working on active leads and that there is no further info to release to the public at this time.
According to the initial report from police, two people were shot at 4:14 p.m. last Friday in the area of Elm Street and East Main Street.
Both victims were treated on the scene by City Fire and Mercy EMS. One person was transported to UMMC with non-life-threatening injuries and the other one was treated and released at the scene.
Police have yet to release any information on possible suspects, such as how many people might be involved, the type or types of weapons involved, how many shots were fired, or any descriptions of the suspects.
There is no information available on any possible motive.
Press release:
The City of Batavia Water Department along with Zoladz Construction will be repairing an emergency water main break on Harvester Ave. The water will be shut down on Harvester Ave from Colorado Ave to Ellicott Street.
The length of time the water will be off is unknown.
As always, when the water is restored, it may be discolored. Please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.
We apologize for any inconvenience and the public’s patience is greatly appreciated.
There are kids in every high school who, when it comes time to make that serious decision after graduation, just don’t know what they want to do, Molly Haungs says.
And the GLOW With Your Hands program is a way to introduce kids early on to many career options that don't necessarily require a costly college degree.
“I am a marketing manager, I have a college degree. It took me seven and a half years to get there. That's an expensive mistake, and that was a long time ago. It's an even more expensive mistake now. And I think if we can kind of get some of these kiddos that just aren't really sure what they want to do, in front of businesses and in front of occupations, where they can feel a sense of fulfillment and know that they're gonna make a good honest living. There's just so much pride in that,” Haungs said during a GLOW celebration Wednesday at the site of her employer, Land Pro Equipment. “And this community offers a ton of opportunities. So that's really what the GLOW With Your Hands project is about, it’s aligning potential students with the businesses that have careers that can make it all happen and come together.”
Haungs and several other partners in the four-county effort (Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming) got together to announce the program’s success in attracting those students, and area businesses, to participate.
This year 1,000 students will be learning various skills that are in demand in the workforce, from high-tech construction equipment operators and advanced manufacturing to food production and jobs in the agricultural market.
Land Pro Equipment, in progress with a project at its site at Saile Drive and Call Parkway, was one of the founders of the program and therefore has been a participating business for interested students. Haungs said this kick-off event couldn’t have happened at a better time “as we continue with the construction of our 50,000 square-foot regional training center with sales, service, and training facilities,” she said.
“In order to repair and maintain a large portfolio of John Deere equipment, we need workers with a specific set of skills because these machines use highly sophisticated electronics and other high-end controls. We are finding that GLOW With Your Hands is truly making a difference … I mean, you'll see kids that are driving nails. I got to see some things last year that, you just see a spark in their eye and interest created, and it's just such a good feeling when you see that light in one kid.”
Her company first saw such an initiative at a Finger Lakes Career Fair, and everyone agreed that it should be replicated here, Haungs said. One by one, key players joined in the effort, from Co-Chairmen Jay Lazarony and Chris Suozzi, GLOW With Your Hands School Coordinator Angela Grouse and Melinda Mack, New York Association of Training and Employment Professionals executive director, to marketing committee co-chairman Jim Krencik.
And a win-win became evident: employers provided opportunities for students to learn hands-on skills, students and their families could eliminate college debt, and more trained workers are becoming available for employers seeking people to fill positions.
Students from eighth to 12th grades will come from all four counties for a career boot camp of sorts, learning hands-on skills and trades and having the opportunity to dip their toes in several occupational pools, so to speak.
More than 45 vendors have already committed to participate in hands-on activities and simulations in the advanced manufacturing, agriculture, food production, skilled trades sectors, and various branches of the military.
Mack said the efforts of GLOW With Your Hands represent the impact that workforce development partnerships are having for the next generation of talent.
The student participants will converge on Genesee County Fairgrounds on Sept. 27, and, as a result of this program, local residents have “many options for good-paying, family-sustaining jobs,” Lazarony said.
“But the job is not done. We need to focus on the next generation of workers because of the immediate need for skilled workers due to the rate of retiring laborers. It's important to note, that a number of these jobs do not require a four-year college degree. Graduating students can start their careers without incurring or letting their parents incur the cost of college education,” he said.
“There was a time not too long ago that you didn't have a college degree and you couldn't get a good paying job, a family-sustaining job. That's not the case any longer,” he said. “Simply put, employers that report skilled workers now, especially those that can grow within their companies in the coming decades, through our collaboration with the business sector, and stakeholders in government events like GLOW With Your Hands, are helping meet this demand. The future for our regional economy depends on us meeting this demand.”
Haungs also credits Karen Winters of Genesee County’s Business Education Alliance as the one who “kind of got in front of the right people to make this happen.” From there, it snowballed into a much larger territory of workforce development opportunities for students, she said.
“And it was just a trickle-down effect of people, just knowing that we need this, and knowing that this is going to make a difference,” Haungs said.
Top photo from left, Jay Lazarony, Angela Grouse, Molly Haungs, Melinda Mack, Chris Suozzi, and Jim Krencik celebrate the GLOW With Your Hands program, which will involve 1,000 students from Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties at a hands-on training Sept. 27 at Genesee County Fairgrounds. Photos by Joanne Beck.
Finally, after making a move over to Ellicott Street, having a “soft” opening and trial period, Judy Hysek was ready for an official reopening celebration this week.
Hysek, owner of Eden Cafe & Bakeshop at 242 Ellicott St., Batavia, had to overcome more than a physical move, as the new site’s renovations included much electrical work, a lingering permit process, and, once again, COVID jumped into the middle of yet another business owner’s plans.
Her place, Eden Cafe & Bakeshop, has been settling into its new home for a few months now since moving out of Eli Fish Brewery on Main Street. Her vision unfolded in colors of cream and rosy melon, light olive green and two shocks of cobalt blue from the wall artwork made of recycled plastic Domino sugar bags.
People have suggested that Hysek take her shop to a larger city in the next county, but she believes Batavia — a place she is from and loves — needs the plant-based options that she offers.
“There are other vegan eateries in the larger cities, and we want to serve the people here locally,” she said. “We will always be in Batavia.”
Hysek first moved into shared space with Eli Fish a year after winning a regional Foodie Challenge in 2017. A year ago, one of her customers, Stephen Valle, approached her about a space he had available on Ellicott Street. Now, after months of hard work and testing the water with limited hours, Eden Café has now been christened with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. Genesee County Chamber of Commerce and Business Improvement District staff welcomed another business owner and helped with the celebration.
Her menu is full of vegan options, however, she stresses that meatless doesn’t mean boring or bland. From the growing number of customers, it would seem they agree. There are cauliflower wings, breaded, baked to order and served with mild to hot barbecue sauce or a house-made sweet maple mustard, or Cattleman’s Gold. Cauliflower has become hot in the food industry, and cauli wings as they’re called offers a meaty-like bite with seasonings and a sauce.
There’s a selection of burgers — made with a Beyond Meat brand patty that Hysek said comes “really, really close” to the real thing — are served with grilled pineapple, house-made pickled onions, teriyaki and mayo, or with a more traditional lettuce, tomato and French’s fried onions. There are also house-made chipotle black bean and chickpea patties, crunchwraps, salads, bowls and Eden’s popular carrot dogs. There’s also a little something for the sweet tooth — fresh-made pies, such as a luscious lemon meringue.
Hours are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday for dining in or take-out. For more information, call (585) 815-4487 or go to Eden.
Top photo: Judy Hysek cuts the ribbon during a grand reopening celebration this week at Eden Cafe & Bakeshop in Batavia. Photo submitted by Steven Falitico; cauli wings and lemon meringue pie cover both spectrums of savory and sweet. Photos by Howard Owens.
Press release:
Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) introduced the Property Tax Reduction Act of 2022. The legislation would prohibit state governments from shifting their Medicaid burden onto local county governments.
“New York State is the only state to impose this Medicaid burden onto their local county governments, forcing property taxes higher and putting unnecessary financial strain on residents across the state. County governments in New York must devote massive amounts of their property tax revenue to this Medicaid obligation – it costs Erie County over 70 percent of its local property tax revenue annually. This legislation corrects this inequity, demands much-needed state fiscal responsibility, and provides tax relief to families and homeowners,” said Jacobs.
“Since taking office, I have made it a priority to do everything I can to once again make New York an affordable place to live, work, and raise a family. By passing this legislation, county governments and their taxpayers will be financially liberated from this oppressive burden. In turn, they would be able to put these saved local funds toward cutting local taxes and making critical investments to bring prosperity and growth back to their regions,” Jacobs said.
“The cost of living has risen exponentially for New Yorkers. From sky high property taxes to today’s 41-year-high inflation, people across our state just cannot catch a break. I’m honored to join the Property Tax Reduction Act once again to ensure counties across New York are not burdened with the State’s high costs of Medicaid spending. This will lower property taxes and force the State to live within its means and finally make important decisions about how to allocate and reduce spending. Enough unfunded mandates and costly burdens have been passed down to our local governments, it’s time we set New York on a path toward fiscal responsibility,” Rep. Tenney said.
The Property Tax Reduction Act would require New York State to absorb the full costs of its Medicaid spending by reducing the state’s Federal Financial Participation (FFP) commensurate with the counties’ share of spending. This reduction is phased in over four years starting in 2025. In 2020, New York counties outside of New York City collectively are forced to contribute $2.3 billion towards the state’s share of Medicaid.
Rep. Jacobs was joined by Representatives Zeldin (NY-01), Stefanik (NY-21), and Tenney (NY-22) in introducing the legislation.
Background
The federal Medicaid program is jointly funded by the federal government and states. New York State shifts a significant portion of its obligation onto local county governments. New York is the only state in the nation to place this significant financial burden on counties. New York counties have no say in how the Medicaid program is run but are required to pay a significant amount of its costs. In 2020, Erie County was forced to pay the state $215 million – or 73% of its property tax revenues – for this Medicaid obligation. Niagara County paid $46 million – or 50% of the county’s property tax revenues.
Press release:
The Byron Rec Program ended its 15th year on August 12th.
The program averages 20 to 30 children Monday through Friday for three hours per day for seven weeks. The program is free and includes lunch.
The program was the vision of Laura Platt and Debra Buck-Leaton.
Buck-Leaton is the Byron Town Clerk and an EMT in the Byron Rescue Squad, she is very active within the community. Platt, a homemaker, and child-care provider for over 30-plus years is president of Byron Ladies Auxiliary. She is an EMT and treasurer of the Byron Rescue Squad. Platt won this year’s award as the most active EMT attending more emergency calls than any other EMT in the squad. Last year, Platt received an award from Strong Memorial Hospital at the department’s annual awards banquet for saving a life at the scene of a chainsaw accident. Platt is also instrumental in heading up the fund-raising efforts for a new ambulance to replace the squad’s 14-year-old ambulance. Incidentally, the Byron Rescue Squad responds to more calls than any other volunteer squad in all of Genesee County. The Byron Rescue Squad has 13 active EMTs, some with advanced certification and 1 first responder.
The Byron Rec Program is a grassroots community project that answered a basic need of keeping local children busy while providing a free, safe, fun place to come to during the summer. Miss Emily (Marble) was selected as the first leader back in 2007 at the program’s start. Some 15 years later, she is still the welcoming, familiar face at the playground. During her 15 years, she completed college, became a teacher, and got married. However, if you ask her, she’ll tell you she loves her summer job that she bicycles to from her home in Bergen.
Seven years ago as the number of children increased there became a need for an assistant. Through the county’s Job Development program Mr. Knickerbocker (Nathan) came to us while still in high school. He enjoyed working with the children and with Miss Emily so much that he was eventually hired as the permanent assistant. He is now in his seventh year, has finished college and is currently seeking a teaching position.
Together the two have become a constant in the lives of many, many Byron children. Together they have created many memorable experiences for their kids over the years. The program includes several field trips yearly. While many are to local parks within walking or biking distance, they have also travelled by bus to Fantasy Island, the Genesee County Park, Seneca Park Zoo. This past week, Miss Emily initiated a geocaching adventure, which the kids really enjoyed.
However, a program started by community-minded volunteers and leaders also includes hopes to instill volunteerism to their younger community members. Over the last few years, the children, with their leaders, have paraded to the nearby Byron Cemetery with buckets, brushes and rags in hand they work to clean tombstones and tidy up the local graves.
“The children love coming to the cemetery, and Miss Emily makes it fun, they also know that they are helping! said Platt.
She added, “As a special treat, they get some ice cream, too!”
A few years ago their volunteering effort was to assist a local disabled veteran by helping clean up the outside of his home. The children not only helped spruce up his home, but they also warmed his heart with some big hugs! “I’m especially proud to share with the children how wonderful it feels to help others,” said Platt.
This year to bridge the gap a week before the school lunch program started, food from the North Bergen Food Pantry was donated and some local volunteers made up and delivered lunches to the program. Parents of the children participating in the program have also stepped up and have picked up the lunches at Byron Bergen School and volunteered as chaperones on field trips. “This program is community at its very best,” said Platt. “It is my hope that it will outlive me!”
Submitted photos
Press release:
It’s Not Too Late! Genesee County Office for the Aging ordered more Farmers Market Coupons. They are available at: 2 Bank St., Batavia, NY 14020, Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:30pm
Anyone 60 or older in your household can have a coupon booklet. You must still be income eligible.
For any questions, please call (585) 343-1611
** 2022 Income Guidelines **
Household of 1 = $ 2096/mo.
Household of 2 = $ 2823/mo.
Household of 3 = $ 3551/mo.
Press release:
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R, C, I-Batavia) is announcing there are still several openings available to take part in his Patriot Trip to Washington, D.C., taking place from Sept. 15 to 18, 2002. Veterans and their family members will be hosted on a tour throughout the area to visit historical sites and landmarks constructed to pay tribute to their service and the nation they’ve fought for. This year’s trip will feature stops at war memorials and other notable locations, including the Arlington National Cemetery, and the World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War memorials, with a stop in Gettysburg.
“Some of the most meaningful memories of my lifetime come from experiences I’ve had on our Patriot Trips witnessing heroes who’ve risked their lives to defend our country get to see the monuments built to honor their bravery and sacrifices,” said Hawley. “After having to pause the tour due to the circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, I am very excited to begin our trips once more and encourage all interested to look into joining us on this incredibly meaningful journey.”
Participation in the trip is open to all military veterans and their family members and will cost between $425 to $500 per person. Those interested in participating in this year’s trip are encouraged to reach out to Assemblyman Hawley’s district office at 585-589-5780 for more details.
Assemblyman Hawley encourages those interested, or who knows someone who might be interested but who may need financial assistance, to contact their local veterans’ services agency. They may be able to provide some assistance, so Hawley encourages those interested to reach out to their county’s agency using the numbers below:
- Genesee County: 585-815-7905
- Orleans County: 585-589-3219
- Erie County: 716-858-6363
- Monroe County: 585-753-6040
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