Sustained success for any team comes from a culture of buy-in and commitment from executives, personnel, staff, and players. When values, visions, and goals align internally, performance on the field improves to create a winning culture.
We witnessed this buy-in from the Buffalo Bills when general manager Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott stepped in and completely shifted the Bills from an organization comfortable with losing into a franchise that continues to produce winning records, all-pros, and productive draft classes.
My goal is to rally our families, schools, businesses, and workforce communities in order for us to create a better future for our youth.
Our workforce advocates have created a culture that is leading our local students to careers that will set them up for lifetime success. We are adding another piece of the puzzle to create the community buy-in we aim for.
With the official announcement of ACT Work Ready Communities coming to Genesee County, we are deploying another resource to connect our students to local in-demand careers.
ACT Work Ready Communities provides the tools to connect our graduates to the in-demand career opportunities available in their backyards, aligning the region’s economic development needs with the skills required to create an economic blueprint that benefits our local businesses and our communities.
I’m excited that many of our schools are engaging to have select groups of students complete the ACT WorkKey Assessments in 2025. These students will graduate into a winning culture our businesses are already growing.
To be designated a Work Ready Community requires participation from our local workforce and businesses. Once registered, there will be access to search and vet job requirements and skills sought by local businesses, allowing them to efficiently recruit from a pool of qualified candidates.
We only need three more companies to sign up to reach our goal of 92 supporting businesses and 11 more will get Genesee County to 100 certified businesses!
The list of certified businesses ranges from companies in manufacturing, food processing, healthcare, education, professional services, hospitality, and more.
Like Sean McDermott and Brandon Beane, our winning culture doesn’t stop with one goal achieved. In order for us to receive certified work ready status we will need the participation of our local workforce candidates; there are no limitations on who can sign up for the National Career Readiness Certificate (NCRC) administered by ACT.
Students, incumbent workers, and job seekers can complete the NCRC which features criteria in applied math, graphic literacy, and workplace documents.
Once completed, prospective job candidates will be recommended and matched with companies that align with their skills based on NCRC results.
Companies looking to relocate or expand value this accreditation and provide them with workforce information and data, bringing more jobs to Genesee County.
I am pleased by the progress we’ve had in working with school representatives, workforce institutions, and other stakeholders to recruit workforce candidates and local companies to be a part of the workforce development ecosystem that will allow our community to continue its sustained success.
To learn more or sign up for a National Career Readiness Certificate contact me at 585-343-4866 or csuozzi@gcedc.com.
Chris Suozzi is the Executive Vice President, Business & Workforce Development of the Genesee County Economic Development Center
Five-year longevity award recipients at UConnectCare are, seated from left, Sue Gagne, Nick Volpe and Cheyenne Richardson; standing, Mike Pettinella, Christen Foley, Jessica Budzinack, Lisa Fitzak and Lucy Sweeney. Other five-year employees are Keith Lyons, Jake Nadolinski, Rachel Tebor and Rob Shields. Photos courtesy of UConnectCare.
Press release:
UConnectCare recognized 18 employees with longevity awards at its annual holiday luncheon on Tuesday at Terry Hills Restaurant in Batavia.
Among those honored was President/Chief Executive Officer John Bennett, who joined the nonprofit agency in 1999 after starting his professional career 14 years earlier as an adolescent and jail counselor.
In 2006, Bennett assumed the oversight of the Residential Services and in 2012, he was hired to be executive director and now serves as CEO.
In her introductory speech, Virginia Taylor, a former UConnectCare board president, cited Bennett’s passion and caring nature as hallmarks of his career.
“John’s passion for creating the full continuum of services so individuals don't have to leave their community has been the driving force behind all that he has accomplished,” she said. “We are extremely proud of the organization under John's leadership, and his commitment to our community is nothing short of exemplary.”
Bennett expressed his appreciation for all those who have dedicated their lives to helping others become sober and to live productive lives.
“As my career winds down – and some of your careers are just starting -- I just hope that we continue to have people coming into this work because it is so important,” he said.
“Most of the time we’re just planting seeds, and we just want to leave the door open for these people to come back. That’s the key to the work we do. It’s never to judge people or make people feel demeaned. If you’re kind to them -- if you love them -- they’ll come back to see you again.”
Other UConnectCare employees recognized for longevity:
25 years – Amy Klos, customer relations manager.
20 years – Leslie Pfalzer, Information Technology director.
15 years – Diane Hooper, Batavia clinic secretary.
10 years – Dana Joy, Albion clinic supervisor; Sheila Harding, assistant director of Prevention.
5 years – Jessica Budzinack; coordinator of Outreach & Family Support; Lisa Fitzak, secretary; Mike Pettinella; media specialist; Christen Foley, Prevention Resource Center project director; Keith Lyons, driver; Lucy Sweeney, counselor; Nick Volpe, The Recovery Station operations manager; Sue Gagne; outreach RN; Jake Nadolinski, residential cleaner; Cheyenne Richardson, residential counselor; Rachel Tebor, residential technician; Rob Shields, residential technician.
Submitted photos.
UConnectCare longevity award recipients are, seated from left, Leslie Pfalzer, Diane Hooper and Sheila Harding; standing, Dana Joy and John Bennett.
The joint Ascension and Resurrection Parish Faith Formation celebrated the 3rd Sunday of Advent (December 15) by bringing joy to our homebound parishioners by signing Christmas cards. Families also decorated ornaments and brought hats and mittens for the “Tree of Warmth” giving tree.
As the holiday season approaches, many people enjoy gathering, celebrations, and family traditions. It’s a time to relax and reconnect, but for some, the holidays can bring extra stress. When people feel stressed, they often look for comfort or distractions, and this might make vaping more tempting – especially for those who already use nicotine.
Nicotine gives a short-term feeling of relief by boosting dopamine, a chemical that helps with mood. However, this can lead to dependence, making stress even worse in the long run.
“Some people use e-cigarettes to handle stress or anxiety,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “However, vaping to feel better creates a cycle of nicotine dependence, which can become another source of stress.”
This holiday season, try to take steps to stay healthy and manage stress in positive ways. By understanding your triggers and using healthy coping tools, you can enjoy the season without turning to vaping or other quick fixes.
Take the following steps to enjoy the holidays vape-free:
Start reducing your nicotine use before the holidays. Gradually cutting back ahead of time gives your body a chance to adjust and helps you prepare for extended time with family without facing withdrawal symptoms. By lowering your nicotine intake as the holidays approach, you can set yourself up for a more enjoyable and stress-free season.
Come prepared with healthier ways to cope with stress and triggers. Listening to your favorite songs, taking a walk, or practicing deep breathing techniques are great options to help distract you from cravings while supporting your body and mind in a positive way.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Staying refreshed can help reduce cravings and support your overall well-being. Keep a water bottle with you and sip regularly – using a straw can also help satisfy the oral fixation that often comes with vaping.
Stay active during the holiday season! You don’t have to run a marathon to keep moving. Simple activities like taking a daily walk, following an online yoga session, or enjoying outdoor fun like sledding or snowshoeing can go a long way in helping to manage nicotine cravings and boost your mood.
Keep your schedule packed with activities that don’t involve vaping. Plan outings with friends and family, try cooking a new recipe, make a snowman or ornaments for the tree. Staying busy helps you avoid boredom, which is one of the most common triggers for vaping.
Keep in mind that quitting isn’t easy, and it is okay to treat yourself! Set small goals, like making it through a morning, a day, or a week without vaping, and reward yourself when you achieve them. Celebrating milestones makes the process more enjoyable and helps build healthier habits over time.
Remember, the holidays do not have to be perfect, and managing stress is about progress, not perfection. Taking small steps to cope in healthier ways can make the season more enjoyable.
Get Help Today
If you are interested in quitting, or someone you know needs help quitting, help is available:
Visit the New York State Smokers' Quitline for quit-smoking and quit-vaping programs, or call 866-NY-QUITS (866-697-8487), to apply for a free starter kit of nicotine medications and to talk to a quit coach.
Talk to your healthcare provider about medications and counseling to help you manage cravings. Most health insurance plans, including Medicaid, cover services to help you quit.
For more information about GO Health Programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department at:
Senator George Borrello today announced that several organizations in the 57th Senate District have been awarded grants from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA). These grants will support arts and cultural initiatives that enrich communities, foster creativity, and stimulate local economies.
“We are incredibly fortunate in the 57th District to have so many wonderful nonprofit arts and cultural organizations that enrich our quality of life, strengthen our communities, and boost our local economy,” said Senator George Borrello. “I have proudly supported state funding for these vital organizations and am pleased to congratulate the outstanding arts nonprofits in SD57 that have received grant awards totaling $830,000 in the latest round of funding from the New York State Council on the Arts.”
The recipients include the following:
1891 Fredonia Opera House, Inc.
NYSCA Support for Organizations: $25,000
Arts Council for Wyoming County
Robert Doyle: Odology – The Study of Roads and Paths: $10,000
Statewide Community Regrants in Allegany & Wyoming Counties: $150,000
Chautauqua Institution
Literature: Sejal Shah, The Gujarati Girls: Growing Up South Asian American in Western New York in the 1980s: $10,000
Chautauqua Regional Youth Ballet
Arts Education: NYSCA Support for Organizations: $40,000
Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council
Rehearsal Space for Performing Arts: $35,000
NYSCA Support for Organizations: $25,000
Statewide Community Regrants in Delaware and Orleans Counties: $385,000
Holland Land Purchase Historical Society
NYSCA Support for Organizations: $40,000
Infinity Visual and Performing Arts, Inc.
NYSCA Support for Organizations: $25,000
Reg Lenna Center for the Arts
NYSCA Support for Organizations: $25,000
Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History
NYSCA Support for Organizations: $25,000
Shake on the Lake, Inc.
NYSCA Support for Organizations: $25,000
Tri-County Arts Council
NYSCA Support for Organizations: $10,000
The NYSCA grants are part of the Council’s mission to advance access to the arts across New York State. This year, NYSCA has allocated funding to support a wide array of projects, from community arts education and performances to preservation efforts and innovative programming.
Senator Borrello emphasized his ongoing commitment to supporting the arts.
“As your Senator, I will continue to advocate for funding and initiatives that celebrate our region’s talent and creativity. I encourage all eligible organizations to explore these opportunities in the future to ensure our communities continue to thrive through the arts,” said Sen. Borrello.
Additionally, organizations should note that the $80 million Capital Projects Fund opportunity is open and accepting applications through January 14. The program will prioritize projects to advance accessibility, placemaking, environmental resiliency, and community building. Awards will be announced in Spring 2025. Guidelines have been streamlined to expand access for organizations of all sizes.
For more information about NYSCA and upcoming grant opportunities, visit https://arts.ny.gov/.
Photo of (from left to right) Chris George, Eco Waste Solutions; New York State Senator George Borrello; and Jean Lucas, Eco Waste Solutions CEO. Submitted photo.
Press Release:
New York State Senator George Borrello toured Eco Waste Solutions new manufacturing facility in Batavia on December 9. The facility produces Expeditionary Solid Waste Disposal Systems (ESWDS) for the United States Army. Senator Borrello also met with Eco Waste Solutions employees.
“Senator George Borrello is keenly aware of the positive impacts of small businesses in communities such as Batavia, and we appreciate the opportunity to showcase the incredible work being done here by our dedicated and skilled workforce,” said Jean Lucas, CEO, Eco Waste Solutions. “We are extremely proud of the fact that our company produces these high-quality sustainable technology systems right here in Batavia and Genesee County which are then delivered to US mission sites across the world.”
During his visit, Senator Borrello received an up-close look at Eco Waste Solutions advanced manufacturing processes, which include the production of cutting-edge thermal waste conversion systems. The ESWDS eliminates the need to rely on burn pits which were a long-standing source of toxic exposure on overseas missions, resulting in cancers and other health issues among personnel.
“We are excited to have Eco Waste Solutions join the growing number of businesses, particularly in the advanced manufacturing and technology sectors, who are bringing their operations to the GLOW, Finger Lakes and western New York regions,” Senator Borrello said. “These businesses, particularly in smaller communities, have an extremely positive economic impact and provide good paying jobs to our residents.”
The Salvation Army is joining forces across New York State to encourage people to consider donating $20 on the 20th of December as a last-minute push to raise much-needed funds during the 2024 Red Kettle Campaign.
“The need is great for struggling local families and individuals, particularly during the holiday season,” said Captain Brad Moore of The Salvation Army of Batavia. “We are counting on the kindness of those in our community to come out to a Red Kettle this Friday and donate a $20 bill as it will go a long way to help those in need during the holiday season and beyond.”
According to Captain Moore, the community’s financial support and kindness during the holidays help The Salvation Army to assist more than 11,000 local families and individuals throughout the year through Food Pantry, Clothing Vouchers, Senior Luncheon, Back-to-School Backpacks, Christmas Assistance and more.
“As of today, The Salvation Army of Batavia has raised about 73% of our $100,000 goal for Red Kettles this year,” Captain Moore said. “With just under a week until Christmas, a $20 donation at a local Red Kettle would make a huge difference in helping those who need it this year in our community.”
Donations to The Salvation Army of Batavia can be made at any Red Kettle from now until Christmas Eve. Online donations can be made by texting Kettle to 31333 or by visiting https://salarmy.us/empredkettle. Cash or checks can be dropped off, or mailed to, The Salvation Army of Batavia, 529 East Main Street Batavia, NY 14020.
The Genesee Community College(GCC) History Club will once again be hosting the Historical Horizons Lecture Series with a full line up for Spring 2025. For those who may be unfamiliar with the lecture series, these are talks on a variety of topics of historical interest, open to both the campus community and the public every first Wednesday during the semester. Lectures will be held at 7 p.m. in T102 on GCC's Batavia Campus and will also be available to join via Zoom. All talks will be followed by a Q&A session with the speakers.
Spring 2025 Historical Horizons line up:
February 5: Historic Chronicles of Genesee County
By Michael Eula, Genesee County Historian
Genesee County has seen trials, tribulations and triumphs throughout its storied history as national events have been brought to its doorstep. Join author Michael Eula as he reveals the historic chronicles of Genesee County.
SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL EVENT
March 5: A Single Blow: The Battles of Lexington & Concord
By Phil Greenwalt
The history of the Battles of Lexington and Concord were the culmination of years of unrest between those loyal to the British monarchy and those advocating for more autonomy and dreaming of independence from Great Britain in the future. Join historian Phil Greenwalt as he unfolds the facts of April 19, 1775, uncovering the amazing history that this pivotal spring day ushered in for the fate of Massachusetts and thirteen of Great Britain's North American colonies with a Single Blow.
April 2: General Grant and the Verdict of History: Memoir, Memory,
and the Civil War
By Dr. Frank Varney
General Ulysses S. Grant is best remembered today as a war-winning general, and he certainly deserves credit for his efforts on behalf of the Union. But has he received too much credit at the expense of other men? Have others who fought the war with him suffered unfairly at his hands? Come hear Dr. Varney talk about his newest book General Grant and the Verdict of History: Memoir, Memory, and the Civil War.
May 7: Julia Ward Howe
By Joyce Thompson-Hovey
American poet and author Julia Ward Howe, most famous for writing the lyrics to "Battle Hymn of the Republic", was a remarkable woman who was a tireless social activist. Come hear her fascinating story.
Genesee Community College invites the public to join them for these enlightening lectures, providing a unique opportunity to engage with historical topics and esteemed scholars. Mark your calendars for an enriching experience at the Historical Horizons Lecture Series this Spring.
For more information, please contact the Office of Student Engagement and Inclusion at sei@genesee.edu.
Brothers McClurg in their recording studio in the Harvester Center, Batavia. Photo by Howard Owens.
When Brothers McClurg, a Grammy-nominated Christian Americana band with roots in Buffalo and a base in Batavia, gather around a mic, they aim to do their part to serve God.
Guitarist Jeremy Thompson looks at it like this: "I feel like it's the kid with the five loaves and the bread just walking up and saying, 'This is what I got, and I want to use it for you, Lord,' you know? (John 6:1-13) If it blesses somebody, that's great. That's just to simplify it because God can do more with our little bit. I just want to get to the end and know that I used my gift in the most fulfilling way."
Not that the talents of Thompson and brothers Anthony Hoisington and Chris Hoisington are anything less than exceptional, but they know they're called not to shine in the spotlight but to do their part to serve God.
On Thursday, they will bring their talents for uplifting music to Northgate Free Methodist Church, where Anthony is the worship leader. The concert starts at 7 p.m. Admission is free, but concertgoers are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items as a donation to the Salvation Army.
Brothers McClurg's journey in music and faith starts with Anthony's and Chris's grandfather, Bill McClurg, a minister and musician. He inspired more than just the name of their band.
"We lived right next door to our grandparents," Anthony recalled during a group interview with The Batavian in their Harvester Center recording studio. "We kind of shared a driveway. My grandfather and my parents traveled as a Southern Gospel group (the McClurg Family Singers) from Upstate New York, which is kind of funny, an ironic thing, and then they retired off the road when I was probably like, eight or nine.
Bill McClurg, a guitar player, continued in the ministry and discovered that, at least in the 1980s, many nursing homes didn't have pastors who would come in and host a service, especially with music.
Young Anthony and Chris were enlisted to assist. Most of the nursing homes were in Erie County -- the family lived in Akron.
"We would sing and play with him," Anthony said. "It was rather pathetic, but it is what we did. From an early age, he modeled for us a work ethic when it comes to music, but also, sort of, you should go find your niche and your audience. His was, you know, older folks, but that really got us our start, just playing and singing behind him. Half the time, the audience was excited that we were there and that we didn't need to be perfect."
Youth group musicians As young teenagers, they were involved with their church's youth group, and Thompson was involved in his. The youth pastors of the two groups were friends, so the groups would sometimes visit each other's churches, and the home church would lead the worship service, including music.
When they saw Thompson play, they were, like, "Who's that guy?" Anthony said.
"It was about how loud we could get it," Anthony said. 'And back then, it was about how much aggression we could put into music. And he was ripping up there. And I was like, 'Man, I gotta talk to that guy.' The youth group we grew up in was very music-focused. I mean, it was like a bunch of hippies."
Thompson said his youth group was into sweater vests and soccer.
Teenage musicians, of course, are going to want to explore more than just Christian music, even if that doesn't entirely meet parental approval.
"We had parents that were like, if it isn't Christian, you can't listen to it," Anthony said. "We snuck around that, but then, as we got older --I think I would give credit to our parents -- when we started playing in rock bands when we were teenagers, the three of us, we were playing in bars at 16, 17, 18, and we had parents who almost looked at it like a proselytization avenue."
Their parents didn't expect them to play just in church basements and regularly turned up at their gigs.
After all, where would Jesus go?
"Yeah, we don't mind singing about Jesus. We certainly believe in Him, and that's a huge part of our thing. But we also wanted to be able to sing about life and about girls and whatnot, not in a way that was crass or whatever, but just honest. And we were surrounded by a culture of Christian musicians that wanted to do that," Anthony said.
Growing as songwriters When it came time to start writing songs together, Anthony and Chris gravitated toward Christian themes. They began performing together at Christian music festivals and at churches. They started to build a base of fans. They played at Kingdom Bound at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center, which led to a Nashville-based record label, Integrity, offering them a contract.
They then decided they needed a name better representing their musical heritage and family legacy. In homage to Pappy McClurg, they settled on Brothers McClurg.
Given their background in Southern Gospel, it might not be surprising that they drifted toward a sound based around acoustic guitars and tight harmonies. Still, with the rock and folk influences and a bit of bluegrass, they don't fit neatly into a Southern Gospel framework, though they've played those festivals.
Thompson joined the duo early on to make it a three-piece, and they traveled and recorded with a bigger backing band. As Thompson pointed out, traveling with a band is expensive, so one day, they asked him to grab an acoustic guitar and join them.
"Then you naturally land on a spot of like folk, southern grass, or whatever you want to call it, and that was just super natural to us because it wasn't like, 'Hey, let's do this because it would be cool," Thompson said. "It just happened."
Brothers McClurg recorded three albums for Integrity before being dropped by the label, though the album Join the Sound, did crack the Top 40 on the Billboard charts. They were soon signed to an independent label based in Watertown, but the band, this time, decided they wanted to produce the album themselves.
Escaping Nashville Anthony said they weren't always satisfied with the final product on their first albums. Their Southern Gospel-inspired sound, ironically, didn't fit with Nashville's penchant for pop song production.
He decided to take the advance from the new label and lease space for a studio in the Harvester Center, and record the album -- which became their Christmas album, Going Back to Bethlehem -- in Batavia. They could record at their own pace. The lease was for a year. The album was finished in six months.
Anthony's connection with Batavia began when he was still involved with his church near the University at Buffalo. A young lady from Batavia started attending UB and got involved with that church. Eventually, they married, and Anthony moved to Batavia, at first as worship director for an Assembly of God church and later at Northgate, where he's led worship for 19 years.
Once musician friends found out the studio in the Harvester Center was available for the six months on the lease, they started calling -- from California, Tennesee, and Ohio -- looking to use the studio for their projects. The temporary studio became the permanent home base for Brothers McClurg. They launched a record label, Old Bear Records, now with 19 artists signed.
With the studio space, Chris Hoisington emerged as a producer. And he clearly has the mind of a producer. Throughout the conversation at the studio on Friday, his comments often focused on the sound, structure and content of things.
When the topic of Old Bear artist Eric Lee Brumley comes up, he immediately explains what makes Brumley different from many Christian artists.
On Brumley's newest album, Electric Chair, the brothers share some writing credits, and Chris is the producer.
It was fun writing with Brumley, he said, because Brumley is more interested in Bible stories, even ones that do not necessarily end well, like David and Bathsheba.
"When you do Christian music, everything has to be victorious, but it's like, 'Let's talk about some of the sad stories, what you can learn from those outcomes, and how it reflects now," Chris said.
Chris lives in the Boston Hills area, south of Buffalo, a ski area called Kissing Bridge. He helps with worship services twice a month with the Free Methodist Church in Fredonia and every couple of months with another church in Olean.
The music he's been listening to most recently is the music that introduces him to new sounds.
"I think influences for all us varies depending on what we're everybody's listening to," Chris said. "I've been listening to a lot of mid-Midwestern EMO lately, so bands like American Football, this band, C Clamp, just like odd music, but they're all cool guitar parts that interchange between the band members. I've been getting back into bands again because I went through a phase of not really listening to bands because nowadays, everybody's a solo artist."
He said as a producer, the most fascinating music today is perhaps soundtracks.
"They're just creating music based on a visual, so that's a way cool way to make records," Chris said. "They're making music off of whatever they want to make based on a narrative that's happening in the movie. Then, when you pull away, you've created this bizarre music."
From that, he's learned, he said, that you can think more about feel than "we need a guitar part on every song, or we need to have a drum part on every song. We can try a lot of different things."
He's especially proud of the Christmas album. He said it's a good example of mixing different sounds, from acoustic arrangements to full band performances, including some instrumentals and a bit of narration from "Pappy" McClurg.
"For me, that's probably my favorite thing we've done," Chris said. "It's got that nostalgic thing to it."
Chris produced or co-produced many of the tracks on Bellsburg (The Songs of Rich Mullins), a multi-artist compilation. Mullins was a Christian singer-songwriter who died in a car accident in 1997. The album was nominated for multiple Grammy awards.
Chris and Anthony are working on a similar multi-artist compilation, one of original material based on parables in the Bible and will include such major Christian artists as Terry Taylor, Randy Stonehill, and Phil Keaggy.
He said of a conversation with Stonehill, "I'm like, 'Dude, just write the song.' We want to help shape the production. That's what's nice about what we've always done with Old Bear. Break the rules because we don't have to adhere to anybody's idea of what (it should be). To us, it's like, let's just make Christian music, but the kind that we actually like to hear it, not because we're trying to market it to some Bible app or whatever the case may be."
They've also kicked around a tribute album to the Louvin Brothers classic, Satan Is Real.
When the subject of the Louvin Brothers comes up, both Anthony and Chris acknowledge them as an influence. There's a general idea in music that siblings make the best harmonies, called "blood harmonies," and Brothers McClurg, including Thompson, who has been playing with Anthony and Chris since they were young teens, think they capture that sound, which was the inspiration for their two albums Around the Mic and Around the Mic Two.
Brothers McClurg are also working on their next album, which the brothers said will be a little different, which Anthony, Chris, and Jeremy are bringing in their own songs and not all of them are explicitly Christian-themed.
For Anthony, music, he said, is for him the most natural way to communicate his faith. It's doing what he can do to spread what faith in Jesus Christ means.
"If you were to put me in front of a bunch of people, you're not sure what they believe, it is really hard for me to communicate verbally, without music, to communicate what faith looks like to me. If you just said, 'Hey, preach about it or talk, talk, take the music out of it, it would be really hard. Naturally, it's way easier to just sing about it. It's more concise, more to the point, and I think it's a better representation of how I feel. I've always looked at it like there is a purpose for me to do that, and there's no more natural way for me to say what I believe in."
Thursday's show will draw from the Brothers McClurg Christmas album, Christmas song covers, and some of their back catalog.
Old Bear artist The Local Hang-Ups, from Rochester, will play a 20-minute opening set. The duo, Katy Martin and Abbey Sitterley,is inspired by the likes of the Everly Brothers and Simon & Garfunkel.
Northgate Free Methodist Church is located at 8160 Bank Street Road, Batavia. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Santa and Mrs. Claus stop by The Batavian's booth Saturday in downtown Batavia. Photo by Kara Richenberg
Visitors from near -- and very far -- stopped by The Batavian's booth outside of Adam Miller Toys & Bicycles Saturday during a toy and food drive for Salvation Army. Even Santa and Mrs. Claus said hello on their way into the toy and bicycle shop in downtown Batavia to greet children during the afternoon.
The collection reaped more than $1,500 worth of goods, many in the form of anonymous donations, and all from generous community members.
Howard Owens, publisher of The Batavian, expressed his gratitude and appreciation for all who participated in this collection, and the many others that take place throughout the area. All contributions to Salvation Army in Batavia remain in Genesee County.
"We were happy to do our part and help out Salvation Army's annual Christmas program to provide food and toys to families in need," Owens said. "Thank you to those who donated money, food and toys to the cause, and to John Roche for offering a discount on toys at his store. This is a great community, and we enjoy being part of it."
Shelley Falitico's elves deliver some toys to The Batavian Publisher Howard Owens during a toy and food drive Saturday outside of Adam Miller Toys & Bicycles in Batavia. Photo by Kara Richenberg
The collection Jeep begins to fill with donations Saturday. Photo by Howard Owens
Bill Brach in progress with filing the second appeal to the Buffalo Diocese for Ascension Parish. Submitted Photo
While members of Ascension Parish attend the remaining noon mass on Sundays, they are clinging to an appeal process that has reached the second phase in steadfast efforts to fight the Buffalo Catholic Diocese’s attempts to permanently close the doors of Sacred Heart Church in Batavia.
The group Friends of Ascension has been working to keep members informed, signing petition mandates, contributing through participation and financial support, and not letting the light die out at their south side parish.
Longtime member Nancy Brach sent out an email this week providing an update to all.
“Thanks to everyone who has assisted us in this process. This includes our core group, parishioners, those who signed mandates, who attended events and masses, who wrote letters, who volunteered, who proudly wore their buttons, who provided information for our appeal, who publicized the challenges we are facing and who encouraged and supported us in this effort,” she said. “While our main focus is keeping our church open, there is much more to this fight. It is about how the Diocese, and Dioceses across the country, are treating their parishes. And we are not so unaware that we do not realize that some churches should close, whether because of their physical condition, their financial viability or their underutilization.
“But to close healthy churches that are needed, cared for and loved in their communities is another story,” she said. “It is clear that individual parishes are being closed due to the transgressions of the Diocese.”
She referred to a “Buffalo News” article quoting attorney Ilan Scharf about the Diocese, defendants in sex abuse lawsuits that have their own assets, including cash investments, and real estate, that should be considered in any settlement discussions.
“If the diocese is going to survive as an entity, other parishes, even those without claims directly against them, can make a contribution to help fund a settlement,” Scharf said. “It’s been done in every other settlement across the country.”
While this may be legally correct, it is ethically wrong to punish people for the sins of others, Brach said.
“It is obvious that she is just looking for a bigger pot to divide among the legal team and those she is representing,” Brach said. “But she intends to take the money from people who are not responsible for the crimes. That is wrong.
“We hope we will be successful in our appeal,” she said. “But it is also important that we can serve as an example of standing up for what is right and that we can encourage other parishes to fight back, instead of giving up.”
Liz Zilbauer of Save Our Buffalo Churches posted to that article and also emailed the Ascension group her thoughts about the situation with the Diocese and notion that other parishes can help to pay for these ongoing sex abuse lawsuits.
“Claimant attorney Ilan Scharf is quoted as explaining Canon Law allowing for 'the assets of merged or suppressed parishes to be used elsewhere within the diocese.' What? Used elsewhere? Actually, with each parish, a separately incorporated entity, the sale money and assets of a parish belong to that parish unless and until that parish is (legitimately) extinguished and its property sold,” Zilbauer said. “Then that money can go to the bishop, but only under certain circumstances, and when legitimate grave cause justifies the closure."
Zilbauer concluded that there is no grave or just cause in the great majority of these closures or that a grave cause could actually have "been accurately determined by the process inflicted on us.”
She included an excerpt from an appeal letter to the dicastery that a canon lawyer encourages parishes to send. It "really sets the record straight" regarding "what is legitimate here and what is not," she said.
“In his decree for [name of] Parish, Bishop Fisher notes the need to amass a substantial sum of money to settle numerous civil claims in Federal Bankruptcy Court, and that the possibility of alienating [parish's] properties has been suggested,” she said. “We strongly object to the potential of our longstanding parish community being sacrificed to satisfy the temporal and pecuniary obligations of the diocese for civil claims that are unrelated to the actions and activities of our parish community. We have informed the Bishop of this objection within our appeal letter.
“I think we diocesan parishioners need to be vigilant against the loopholes ripe for exploitation suggested by ‘net assets’ especially considering it seems to have been the plan all along to use the settlements as pretext for a mass-reduction of footprint … continuing to threaten the parishes, and in fact, deepening the threat, when they have less and less rational/practical justification for doing so,” she said. "Ironically, this is happening during the Christmas season and at the door of the 2025 Jubilee Year — which is defined, in part, by a forgiveness of all debts. It will be during this year that the diocese doubles down on the collection of debts we neither owe nor they have any right to take.”
This second step of an appeal went to the Holy See, which has 90 days to respond. If Ascension receives a denial or no response, it can appeal to the Church's Supreme Court, the Apostolic Signatura, which follows its own regulations “in a different process that requires appellants to hire an advocate in Rome approved by the Signatura.”
There is no strict timeline or constraint for the response, and the Signatura may give extensions during this process.
For previous story about the process and remaining church mass, go HERE.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) nominated President Donald Trump, Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu, and former Defense Minister of Israel Yoav Gallant for their tireless efforts on the Abraham Accords, to advance peace in the Middle East, to combat terrorist groups and to confront radical and oppressive Islamist regimes.
For decades, politicians and foreign affairs professionals claimed Middle East peace depended on resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, through the efforts of President Trump, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and former Defense Minister Gallant, historic normalization agreements were secured between Israel and Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, and Sudan, while laying groundwork for future agreements with Saudi Arabia.
During Israel’s recent war of self-defense, Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Gallant severely weakened Hamas, Hezbollah, and the IRGC. These men courageously stood up to radical Islamist dictators like Ayatollah Khamenei in Iran and, formerly, Bashar al-Assad in Syria, who waged war against their own innocent civilians through the indiscriminate use of violence.
“President Trump, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and former Defense Minister Gallant’s valiant work to combat terrorism and stand up to Islamist regimes has directly led to greater regional and global stability. Without their work, terrorist groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the IRGC would still pose a massive threat to all civilians in the Middle East and around the world. In a time of global turmoil, the bold and unwavering efforts of these leaders is unprecedented and offers hope for lasting peace in the Middle East and around the world. The Nobel Peace Prize Committee has honored esteemed world leaders and champions of peace; it is only fitting that valiant and heroic leaders like President Trump, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and Defense Minister Gallant join these esteemed ranks. I am eager to see these leaders receive the respect, honor, and distinction they richly deserve,” said Congresswoman Tenney.
Officers with Batavia PD, as well as sheriff's deputies later in the morning, participated in the 10th annual Shop with a Cop event at Walmart on Saturday.
Shop with a Cop allows local children who are selected with the help of school resource officers and school officials from each school in Genesee County to buy Christmas presents for themselves or for friends and family members. Children are provided funds and their own personal police officer or deputy to accompany them on a Christmas shopping trip in the store.
Walmart hosts and staffs the event. Walmart also provides funding and goody bags for each child.
Grant money from Walmart, donations from the City of Batavia Police Benevolent Association, City of Batavia Civil Employee’s Association (CSEA), the City’s “Jeans for Friday” program, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Employee Association and donations made in the memory of Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello makes the event possible.
Health and wellness have always been important to family nurse practitioner Renee Marie Robbins. However, it wasn’t until a close family member became critically ill that it took on a deeper meaning.
“I was interested in it and went and did some training and really loved what I did. And then, the whole weight loss thing kind of blew up around here, and I have a personal love for it because, seeing my brother at 45 have a heart attack and almost not be with us, I've really delved into nutrition and health,” Robbins said Friday while doing last minute set-up of her new place at Batavia City Centre. “Also, just being in family practice, helping others, and then having issues with them being denied from their insurance when they really could use the help. A lot of people have been where they just need that little extra push and motivation, and to be held accountable and have someone really care about their health and their journey.”
A Batavia native and 1997 Notre Dame High School graduate, Robbins has more than 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry. She most recently worked at Oak Orchard Health, which she left one and a half years ago. She continues to work at Guler Cardiology in Batavia while debuting her Renee Marie Aesthetics and Wellness next door at 47b in the City Centre.
Robbins is having a grand opening to introduce herself and her offerings, including a Dyson supersonic raffle prize, beginning at 3 p.m. Saturday.
She first rented space at a salon in Elma and ran it for two and a half years, drawing clients from the area and her hometown. However, she said, few practitioners offered the weight loss or aesthetic services she is now bringing to Genesee County.
Those include individualized counseling, use of supplements, an FDA-certified compounding pharmacy to mix two medications together when needed, and finding alternatives when one’s insurance won’t cover a service or someone doesn’t want to go the drastic route of a gastric bypass or end up with diabetes before the insurance company might provide more coverage.
“Bottom line is, I'm willing to try to help someone with their weight loss or their health needs, we'll say, in any way that I can, whether it's through insurance, and if insurance doesn't cover weight loss, then I have alternative means,” she said. “There’s a lot that goes into it; it’s not just what you eat, it’s not just exercise, but it’s also habits. More mindful eating is what I try to teach, we need to always be conscious about what we’re putting into our bodies, about portions. And that’s, I think, where people struggle a lot.”
On the aesthetics side, Robbins has trained with the American Academy of Facial Aesthetics and keeps up on techniques with continued trainings, she said. Services include lip and facial fillers, wrinkle relaxers including Daxxify and Dysport, microneedling, glow facials, EMS body sculpting of various body parts (the abs are especially popular, she said, with electrical stimulation of the muscles to simulate doing 30,000 sit-ups in 30 minutes to strengthen the core).
Some of those body sculpting procedures can be part of a weight loss package. She offers single-session and package prices for services and is available for free Telehealth consultations.
“I hope to help others achieve their health goals. I am proud to own and operate my own aesthetics and wellness clinic, taking pride in providing exceptional service and delivering results to my clients … and how much I care to help others be more healthy, happy, have confidence and be more successful in their goals,” she said. “It’s about helping others. People were coming out to me in Elma, and I live out here and they live out here, and it was like, all right, through a lot of encouragement, I decided just to go ahead and do it, because it’s just the best feeling, it really is.
“My vision is to empower other practitioners … like massage therapists. I really would like to make it a wellness center,” she said. “There’s no better feeling than to hear ‘you’ve really changed my life.’”
Robbins works with individuals, couples, groups, people of all ages, and people with various medical conditions and provides “complete confidentiality,” she said. Hours are by appointment, Monday through Friday.
For more information, call 585-483-0038, email reneemarieaesthetics@gmail.com or go HERE.
Some tools of her trade next to a client chair at Renee Marie Aesthetics and Wellness. Photo by Howard Owens
Nici Johnson, on-air personality for WBTA, Marc Tillery, WBTA producer, Todd Rapp, operations manager, for the Salvation Army, Dan Fischer, former owner of WBTA, and Brad Moore, captain with the Salvation Army. Photo by Howard Owens.
WBTA, Ken Barrett Chevrolet, and the Salvation Army teamed up on Friday for their annual toy drive for the families of Genesee County.
The 17 municipalities that co-own the Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. can expect a payout of $7.8 million in 2025, according to an operational for the new year approved by the board of directors on Thursday.
If the 2024 estimate of $7.4 million holds, that's a $400,000 increase, but it still falls far short of 2023's record of $10,255,058.
The plan projects a net gaming win of $90,495,000.
Of that, close to $45 million will be paid to state agencies by statute.
The total operating expenses for all operations will exceed $38.6 million. Batavia Downs will account for $33 million of these expenses. This is an increase of $1 million.
Net earnings (profits) from all operations are expected to exceed $8.8 million, with branches generating more than $500,000 in surcharge revenue, losing more than $1.5 million, leaving municipalities the anticipated $7.8 million payout.
Branch operations continue to be a financial drain on the organization, with revenue steadily decreasing every year.
The anticipated handle for branch operations is projected to be $38.8 million in 2025, down from the planned handle of $43.9 million in 2024. OTB will earn more than $8 million on commissions, with other revenues exceeding $1.8 million. Statutory payments will be more than $4.7 million. Operating expenses will grow by more than $100,000 to $5.6 million.
There are eight branches within WROTB, 28 EZ-Bets sites(including four expected to start in 2025), plus online and telephone wagering.
The plan calls for Batavia Downs to operate 939 gaming machines, with a win per terminal per day of $267.17 for a total net win of $90.5 million.
Food and beverage revenue is expected to exceed $5.6 million with operational earnings exceeding $1.1 million.
The Rockin' the Downs concert series will return in 2025 with eight concerts, including a promise of some bigger name acts. Projected revenue from all sales is expected to approach $1 million. Net earnings will be less than $100,000. The plan does not project an increase in hotel and gaming revenue associated with the concerts.
Projected revenue for the hotel in 2025 is $2.9 million with a profit of $780,000.
At the track, between the summer-fall season and the winter season, there will be 71 racing dates. The anticipated handle is $968,200.
Administrative costs is projected to exceed $8.2 million, an increase of $1 million. The increase is related to ongoing demand for new and upgraded computers and software, legal services, and retirement benefits (including one buyout), plus the increased cost in health insurance.
Due to HVAC issues, the Clerk’s Office will be closed for the remainder of the day on Friday, December 13, 2024. The office will reopen for normal business on Monday, December 16th. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR) is again working with the University Heights Arts Association (UHAA) to showcase the talents of another local young artist, Hope Smith. Her paintings will be displayed in the Independent Living Center lobby at 319 West Main Street, left rear, in the Crickler Executive Business Center in Batavia, from now until March 31.
Concerning her work, Hope states, “I started painting at a young age and I am currently 17. I enjoy painting because it makes me feel better when times are tough.”
The public is invited to her free Opening Reception, Monday, December 16 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. at ILGR, with light refreshments provided.
More information is available at 585-815-8501, extension 406.
The Western New York Independent Living, Inc. family of agencies offer an expanding array of services to aid individuals with disabilities to take control of their own lives.
Village and town property owners left Genesee County on the hook for delinquent water, sewer and school taxes worth more than $2.3 million for 2024, and the respective amounts are to be included in the county and town/village tax levies -- some of which for an extra fee.
The Legislature approved several resolutions Wednesday, including those related to the unpaid tax and utility payments.
Legislators agreed to add the following delinquent water/sewer accounts to town tax levies:
Alabama $14,144.17
Alexander $3,718.89
Batavia $75,310.57
Bergen $1,746.83
Bethany $417.69
Byron $33,419.52
Darien $17,233.81
Elba $4,468.89
Oakfield $390.72
Pavilion $13,508.75
Pembroke $1,151.80
Stafford $370.35
Total: $165,881.99
Budget Impact: The County’s share of the total amount collected is $10,852.11.
The Real Property tax law requires that, by Nov. 15, 2024, all rural Genesee County school districts return their respective unpaid 2024-2025 school taxes to the county treasurer for inclusion in the 2025 county and town tax levy.
The following amounts are to be re-levied against the various towns of the County of Genesee as specified:
Alabama $79,068.82
Alexander $141,811.41
Batavia $148,045.22
Bergen $128,073.33
Bethany $58,052.06
Byron $106,514.76
Darien $266,217.04
Elba $98,654.88
LeRoy $340,266.50
Oakfield $103,677.72
Pavilion $72,882.73
Pembroke $390,049.17
Stafford $99,346.79
Total: $2,032,660.43
Budget Impact: The county makes the school districts whole for their portion and retains a 7% fee. The 2024 total was $2,081,259.37.
The unpaid village taxes will also be re-levied as part of the 2025 town and county levy.
The following amounts are to be re-levied against the various villages in the County of Genesee as follows:
Alexander $2,336.63
Attica $190.13
Bergen $4,624.48
Elba $4,038.26
LeRoy $91,659.49
Oakfield $5,695.34
Corfu $2,009.25
Total: $110,553.58
Budget Impact: The County makes the Villages whole for their portion and retains a 7% fee. The 2024 total was $127,544.41.
In related tax collection resolutions, the Legislature also approved the county treasurer assisting in collecting the 2025 town/county tax bills for the Town of Alexander, per the supervisor’s request. The Genesee County treasurer is willing to collect the 2025 Town/County taxes on behalf of the Town of Alexander for a fee of $7,500 to cover the cost of providing the tax collection services.
In turn, Treasurer Kevin Andrews has requested to hire a temporary financial clerk-typist to assist with collecting these taxes. The position will be funded by the revenue received from the tax collection agreement with the Town of Alexander.
The Genesee County treasurer and Human Resources director were then directed to amend the 2025 Employee Salary Schedule by establishing a temporary position of financial clerk-typist, CSEA Grade 9, in the Treasurer’s Office, with varying hours not exceeding 37.5 hours per week from Jan. 6, 2025, to April 30, 2025.
The 2025 Genesee County budget is to be amended as follows:
Increase Appropriation A.1325 1010.0000 Personal Services by $6,967
Increase Appropriation A.1325 8010.0000 Social Security Tax by $432
Increase Appropriation A.1325 8011.0000 Medicare Tax by $101
Increase Revenue A.1325 1230 Treasurer Fees by $7,500
Budget Impact: Increased appropriations of $7,500 offset by increased revenue from the Town of Alexander in a like amount.
In an unrelated approval, the Legislature agreed to renew the county’s Economic Development Center contract for $233,513 plus $25,000 for workforce training program administration. The contract runs from Jan. 1, 2025, to Dec. 31, 2025, and will be paid in regular installments upon receipt of proper vouchers.
The financial history of payments to GCEDC includes a low of $193,513 in 2017 and 2018, which then jumped to $233,513 in 2019 and has remained for subsequent years. The additional $25,000 began in 2022.
2024 = $233,513 + $25,000 workforce training program administration
2023 = $233,513 + $25,000 workforce training program administration
2022 = $233,513 + $25,000 workforce training program administration
2021 = $233,513
2020 = $233,513
2019 = $233,513
2018 = $193,513
2017=$193,513 – 10% reduction in funding or $21,501 less
2016=$215,014
2015=$215,014
2014= $215,014
2013= $215,014
2012 = $215,014; 5% reduction in funding or $11,317 less
2011 = $226,330; 15% reduction in funding or $29,942 less
2010 = $266,271; 5% reduction in funding or $14,014 less
