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Vets can get $20 in checks Friday to buy produce at Downtown Batavia Public Market

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Veterans can get checks to buy farm fresh produce at the Downtown Batavia Public Market this Friday, July 19.

Victor Roberts, Veterans Benefits advisor, NYS Division of Veterans' Affairs, will be at the market at Bank Street and Alva Place from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. to distribute NYS FreshConnect Checks to local veterans.

FreshConnect Veterans Checks are a component of Governor Cuomo's "New York FreshConnect Farmers' Markets" (FreshConnect) program. The program is designed to assist New York farmers by increasing the sale of locally grown food in communities.

FreshConnect checks will be issued as a one-time annual benefit: 10 -- $2 checks ($20 total yearly benefit); one packet per household, per season.

Checks will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis to the first 80 veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States, current members of the Armed Forces, members of their immediate families, or un-remarried surviving spouses.

"Recipients will not require ID," says Roberts, "but they will need to sign a form accepting the program's rules and regulations."

"The checks can be used to purchase fresh produce from participating vendors at the Market," says Market Manager Mike Bakos. "The Market is excited to, once again, be a distribution point for FreshConnect Veterans Checks and we thank all veterans for their service."

The Downtown Batavia Public Market is held Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Fridays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. mid-June thru October.

P.O. Box 303, Gasport, NY 14067

(716) 560-0853

Gary Scott Scholarship celebrates 50-year legacy of fallen soldier from Le Roy

By Lauren Leone

One deserving Le Roy Jr./Sr. High School senior will become the recipient of the Gary Scott Scholarship this Thursday, which will mark the 50th year of commemorating the life of this American hero.  

The namesake scholarship originated five decades ago in memory of Scott, who was a Le Roy native, distinguished ROTC graduate in Syracuse and Army lieutenant.

When Scott was presented with a choice of which branch of the Army he would join, he challenged himself to enter the infantry.

Scott felt this dangerous assignment would be worthwhile because he could prove himself to be an African American role model who created leadership opportunities for others.

Sadly, at age 22, Scott was killed in action during the Vietnam War when he sacrificed his life to save a fellow soldier.   

Scott’s Syracuse University classmates and friends established a scholarship fund at Le Roy High School to honor Scott’s memory and encourage graduates to embody Scott’s ambition, courage and dedication.

“What inspires me to keep this on and have for 50 years is that we want to give back ... to the Le Roy community that’s embraced the Scott family and to give back to the students that receive the award and inspire them,” said Jim Bruen, a founder and lead coordinator of the scholarship fund.

Previous award recipients, Scott’s high school and university classmates, friends and family members are coming from across the country to celebrate Scott’s story together. This year, $8,000 will be awarded to a new scholarship recipient.

To set the 50th year of this scholarship apart, Le Roy Jr./Sr. High School will host a dinner in Scott’s name in the school cafeteria at 5:30 p.m Thursday (June 27).

The scholarship will be presented afterward at the annual awards ceremony, which begins at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium.

Bruen said, “Seeing the kids that come back that have received this award, it’s a very rewarding night for me and for others. It clearly encourages us to continue to do it.”

Bruen said that he and others who were close to Scott are comforted by the thought that the award recipients will achieve great things in the spirit of the local hero.

“Looking forward, I would like this scholarship to go on for another 50 years," Bruen said. "In order to do that, I would cherish and appreciate funding to the scholarship at the Le Roy High School. That way we can keep the message, the passion and the mission going.”

The scholarship founders are seeking additional support from the Le Roy community in order to fund the award in future years.

Bruen said that past award recipients and prospective donors are welcome to contact the high school for more information about the dinner, award ceremony and the Gary Scott Scholarship.

Le Roy Jr./Sr. High School is located at 9300 South Street Road, Le Roy. Phone is (585) 768-8131. Website is here.

Photos of Gary Scott provided by Rebecca LeClair.

WNY lawmakers recognize Batavia's Medal of Honor designee David Bellavia

By Billie Owens

A press release from Senator Rob Ortt (R,C,I,Ref-North Tonawanda):

Today, Western New York lawmakers honored the military service of Army Staff Sgt. David Bellavia in the New York State Capitol. Bellavia, who will be awarded the Medal of Honor next week by President Trump, was recognized for his accomplishments while serving in the Army.

Senators Rob Ortt, Patrick Gallivan, Mike Ranzenhofer, Chris Jacobs, and Assemblyman Steve Hawley adopted a resolution that was read on the chamber floors, recognizing Batavia resident David Bellavia and his military service.

Bellavia will become the first living Iraq War veteran to receive the nation's highest military decoration.

While serving as a squad leader in Operation Phantom Fury, a 2004 American offensive on the western Iraqi City of Fallujah, Staff Sgt. Bellavia saved his entire squad when he cleared a housing block of enemy combatants who had pinned down his unit. Once Staff Sgt. Bellavia secured the safety of his squad, he re-engaged with the enemy combatants, reentered the house where enemy fire was located, proceeded to kill four enemy insurgents, and wounded a fifth.

Sen. Rob Ortt (R,C,I,Ref-North Tonawanda) said, “There’s no one more deserving of our nation’s highest military honor than David Bellavia – a true American hero. Because of the utmost bravery and heroism David displayed while leading his unit in Iraq, he saved the lives of those he was tasked with protecting. As Western New Yorkers, we couldn’t be more proud to have him as one of our own. And as Americans, we couldn’t be more grateful for his service.”

Sen. Patrick Gallivan (R,C,I-Elma) said, “Staff Sgt. Bellavia represents the very best of the brave men and women who serve and protect our country. His courageous and heroic actions in the midst of a fierce firefight not only saved the lives of his comrades but make him worthy of our nation’s highest military honor. We thank him for his service and for his steadfast commitment to our veterans and those who serve in the military today.”

Sen. Mike Ranzenhofer (R,C,I-Amherst) said, “It is truly an honor to recognize David Bellavia for receiving the nation’s highest military decoration – the Medal of Honor. David’s courage and selfless actions are an example of true heroism. We are truly grateful for his service.” 

Sen. Chris Jacobs (SD-60) said, “David Bellavia’s exploits in the streets of Fallujah are truly awe-inspiring and remind all of us why the American soldier is the strongest in military history and revered by the people he serves. He is an incredibly deserving recipient of the Medal of Honor and I share in the pride his hometown community of Western New York feels.”

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) said, “Staff Sgt. David Bellavia is a true example of the American courage, bravery and heroics that have forged our great nation and he is beyond deserving of this tremendous honor. His willingness to put the lives and protection of others above himself during the Iraq War’s most intense battle is a priceless act of selflessness to which we should all emulate and, for that, he is an American hero. I am honored to recognize Staff Sgt. Bellavia for his service to our nation and thank him for his sacrifices in protecting our country and its citizens.”

Bellavia will be awarded the Medal of Honor on June 25 at the White House.

Reminder: Last week to donate worn flags at Tops in Batavia for 'Stars for Our Troops"

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Tops Friendly Markets Stars for Our Troops initiative is still underway until June 22.

The program welcomes the community to donate their worn and tattered American Flags at 33 select Tops Markets locations as well as their corporate office for proper retirement.

In Genesee County, the participating Tops location is the Batavia store on West Main Street.

In collaboration with partner veterans organizations, including Honor Flight and local VFWs, embroidered stars will be preserved and presented to local veterans who have defended our flag.

“The respect and gratitude we have for the people who serve and have served in the military is immeasurable, and for that we are forever grateful,” said Kathy Sautter, public and media relations manager for Tops.

"With the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, Tops wanted to offer the community this service to not only properly retire their flags, but also know they are in some small way extending their thanks and respect to a veteran through Stars for Our Troops."

Hawley introduced World War II vets on Assembly Floor last Friday

By Billie Owens

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) [center] introduces several veterans of World War II on the Assembly Floor last Friday.

Submitted photo and press release:

Coinciding with the legislature’s celebration of Flag Day and the founding of the Army, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) had the honor of introducing many veterans of World War Two on the Assembly Floor on Friday.

“World War II veterans, ‘The Greatest Generation’ are an elite and special group and it is important to frequently recognize and cherish their role in defending America’s freedom,” Hawley said. “Many of these brave young men and women volunteered, sometimes lying about their age in order to answer the call of duty.

"Their courage and bravery helped shape and preserve American exceptionalism, and it was truly an honor to introduce and meet with them in Albany.”

Hawley, a veteran of the Ohio Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserves, is the son of a World War II veteran himself, R. Stephen Hawley, who fought in Burma as part of Merrill’s Marauders.

Hawley also hosts an annual trip to Washington, D.C., each September, the Patriot Trip, joining local veterans and their families on a tour of our nation’s military and political monuments.

Hawley commemorates 244th birthday of the Army

By Billie Owens

A statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley commemorating the founding of the Army.

“For nearly two and a half centuries the U.S. Army has courageously served our country. On June 14, 1775 the Continental Congress established the United Continental Army under the command of General George Washington to serve the United Colonies for a year.

“Today, we celebrate the 244th birthday of the Army and in doing so celebrate the heroic sacrifices of all the men and women who have served in defense of our freedom and liberty. Across the nation we recognize and honor the more than 1 million active members of the unified Army and the 180,000 Army soldiers and personnel deployed overseas.

“I am proud to have served in the Ohio Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserves, reaching the rank of First Lieutenant, while always remembering my father, a World War Two veteran who fought as a member of Merrill’s Marauders in Burma.

“Loyalty, duty and selfless-service have characterized the Army since its inception. From the beaches of Normandy to the rolling hills of Afghanistan and Iraq, we bear in mind the brave men and women who have generously sacrificed so much for our country. In the spirit of solemn thanksgiving and praise, we wish a happy birthday to the U.S. Army.”

Congressman Collins reintroduces bill aimed at improving veterans' halls

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) and Congressman Peter King (NY-2) reintroduced the "Renovate and Enhance Veterans’ Meeting Halls and Posts (REVAMP) Act."

This legislation will grant organizations access to federal funding for maintenance and improvements to veteran halls and posts.

American Legions and VFW Posts provide a place where veterans can come together to share their stories, get help with VA claims, and get involved in the community,” Congressman Collins said.

“I would like to thank Congressman Peter King for once again joining me in introducing this vital legislation that ensures our veterans have the resources they need to maintain and improve their facilities.”

“Veterans organizations like the VFW and American Legion continually provide and open their facilities to our communities,” Congressman King said. “It is only fair that we provide them with the opportunity to upgrade and repair these facilities to ensure continued use.”

The REVAMP Act allows organizations who are classified by the IRS as 501(c)(19) nonprofit organizations and comprised primarily of past or present members of the Armed Forces and their family members to be eligible for funding through Community Development Block Grants (CDBG).

This legislation uses existing CDBG funding to make veteran organizations eligible for that particular funding and does not add to the deficit.

Text of the legislation can be read here.

Video: The American Legion's 100th Anniversary picnic in Centennial Park

By Howard B. Owens
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Glenn S. Loomis Post 332, Batavia American Legion, celebrated its 100th Anniversary on Saturday in Centennial Park.

BREAKING: Batavia's David Bellavia to receive Medal of Honor at White House later this month

By Billie Owens

davidbellavia_presser.jpg

When President Donald Trump drapes the Medal of Honor -- our nation's highest honor -- around David Bellavia on June 25, the Batavia resident will become the lone living veteran of the Iraq War to receive the honor.

Bellavia, who co-hosts a news talk show on WBEN, wasn't available for comment today. 

Bellavia is already a Silver Star recipient for his single-handed battle against a nest of insurgents during the Second Battle of Fallujah. 

He's also received the Bronze Star, three Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, and the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross.

The Batavian will cover the press conference in Buffalo next week and the award ceremony at the White House on June 25 at the invitation of Bellavia.

Photo: File photo from 2011 when Bellavia announced his first congressional campaign.

American Legion celebrates 100th anniversary with big wingding in Centennial Park tomorrow

By Billie Owens

Information from David Dumuhosky, commander, Glenn S. Loomis Post 332, Batavia American Legion:

The American Legion is 100 years old this year, and we are inviting the community to help us celebrate!

Tomorrow on June 8th, the place to be to honor this centennial is Centennial Park, of course, in the City of Batavia (located at 151 State St.).

Starting at 11 a.m. and going until 5 p.m., there will be nonstop live music, a variety of food trucks, and vendors and crafters, plus a display by the Military Vehicle Preservation Association.

The Glenn S. Loomis Post 332 -- Batavia American Legion is hosting the event in cooperation with its Ladies Auxiliary and the Marine Corps League Hansen Brothers Detachment 951.

The Alexander Fireman's Band will kick things off, followed by The DSP Jazz Trio, and the Old Hippies.

After that we will have multiple groups up all at once, playing back and forth: the Batavia High School Marching Band, the BHS Brass Band, the BHS Jazz Band, and the Saint Joe's of Batavia Brass Ensemble.

Food trucks attending are: The Red Osier Landmark Restaurant, Center Street Smoke House, Totally Edible, The House of Munch, and Over the Border. Also the organic/vegan Eden Café & Bakeshop will have a food stand.

The forecast looks great -- high of 79 degrees, clear and sunny!

Hope to see you there to have fun, enjoy your hard-won freedom on a beautiful day, and pay tribute to an organization that has helped our nation's veterans and military personnel for a century. God Bless America!

Hawley: 'Downstate lawmakers shamelessly block passage of pro-veteran bills'

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today chided members of the Assembly Veterans’ Affairs Committee for blocking a package of bills that would have provided financial relief for veterans’ groups and their families at recreational facilities.

Hawley, who has served on the Veterans’ Affairs Committee for many years, is also a veteran and hosts an annual trip to Washington, D.C., each September for local veterans and their families – the Patriot Trip.

Hawley served as acting Ranking Republican Member of Tuesday’s committee meeting and insisted that each bill be considered on its own merits so that a vote could be taken on each instead of choosing to "Hold for Consideration" – a legislative action which essentially kills the legislation.

Three of the bills had bipartisan support, yet all were blocked by a vote of 10-8.

The bills blocked by the Assembly Majority include:

“It continues to baffle me that members of the Downstate majority refuse to repay our brave veterans for their service to our state and nation,” Hawley said. “The costs associated with these measures are miniscule compared to the costs and sacrifices many veterans paid while protecting our freedom – and yet they were all blocked.

"As we witnessed when downstate lawmakers blocked my Gold Star families bill earlier this year, the majority has no issue rewarding illegal individuals with driver’s licenses or prison inmates with pay raises but turn their backs when it comes to our veterans – disgraceful.”

Batavia Tops Market invites you to retire your worn U.S. flags June 9-12 for 'Stars for Our Troops'

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Tops Friendly Market at 390 W. Main St. in the City of Batavia will be among 33 of the full-service grocery stores participating in the Stars for Our Troops initiative June 9-22.

The program welcomes the community to donate their worn and tattered American Flags at select Tops Markets locations for proper retirement. Collection bins will be placed in the Batavia store's vestibule for American flag retirement.

In collaboration with partner veterans organizations, including Honor Flight and local VFWs, embroidered stars will be preserved and presented to local veterans who have defended our flag.

“The respect and gratitude we have for the people who serve and have served in the military is immeasurable, and for that we are forever grateful,” said Kathy Sautter, public and media relations manager for Tops.

"With Flag Day approaching on June 14 and the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, Tops wanted to offer the community this service to not only properly retire their flags, but also know they are in some small way extending their thanks and respect to a veteran through Stars for Our Troops.

“Many people don’t know how or where to retire their aged flags and end up just tucking them away in a garage or attic. This program allows us to not only assist the community with proper retirement, but also gives back to our Veterans in a unique and meaningful way."

When stars are removed and presented to a veteran at local VA hospitals, nursing homes, and placed in Honor Flight care packages the following message is tucked along with each star:

"I am part of our American flag that has flown over the USA. I can no longer fly. The sun and winds caused me to become tattered and torn. Please carry me as a reminder that You are not forgotten.”

Video: American Warrior Appreciation BBQ at Red Osier

By Howard B. Owens

 

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Red Osier Landmark Restaurant is the biggest sponsor of the American Warrior Festival series of concerts and so Dan Clor has held an annual party at Red Osier to thank Steve Foster and Tim Adams for their support.

This year, the party was a BBQ using the new smoker acquired by Red Osier.

The appreciation is mutual. The dinner was Friday evening.

Hawley's 12th Patriot Trip for vets is Sept. 19-22, cost is $400

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and press release from Assemblyman Steve Hawley's office:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that his annual Patriot Trip to Washington, D.C., will take place Sept. 19 – 22.

This will mark the 12th year Hawley has hosted the trip which allows local veterans and their family members to visit a host of famous military memorials in the Washington, D.C., area. The group will be staying in the Bethesda (Md.) Marriott Hotel.

Hawley, serving on the Assembly Veterans’ Affairs Committee since 2006, was influential in expanding college benefits for the spouses and dependents of deceased and disabled veterans earlier this year. 

Please note that only veterans who have never been on the trip before may sign up now. After Aug. 1, veterans who have been on the trip before and those living outside of the 139th Assembly District may apply. Each veteran can invite one guest.

The approximate cost of the trip is $400 per person and that includes meals, transportation and admission to the memorials. 

“The Patriot Trip is one of my favorite events throughout the year,” Hawley said. “This trip was inspired by Mike Paduchak, a World War II veteran, who asked me to come together with local veterans and host a trip to Washington, D.C.

"Through the experiences of my father, veterans I have met during previous year’s trips, and my own service in the military, I have gained a tremendous understanding and admiration for the sacrifices endured by our veterans. It is for these reasons that I continue the Patriot Trip each year and have solidified it as one of the staples of my service to our community.”

If you or a veteran you know want more information about this year’s Patriot Trip XII, please call 585-589-5780 or email carneyj@nyassembly.gov. To view photos from previous years, use this following link.

Attractions Hawley plans to visit this year on the trip include:

White House (**Guests who want to visit the White House must sign up and have a deposit prior to June 30**)

Gettysburg

Capitol

Air Force Memorial

Pentagon/911 Memorial

World War II Memorial

Korean Memorial

Vietnam Memorial

Stephen F, Udvar Hazy Museum

Arlington National Cemetery

Wreath Laying Ceremony at Tomb of the Unknowns

Video: Memorial Day in Batavia

By Howard B. Owens
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Memorial Day ceremonies in Batavia.

Hawley commemorates Memorial Day

By Billie Owens

A statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley:

"Today, I join millions of Americans who honor the sacrifice paid by fallen soldiers and their families. Generation after generation, beginning with the American Revolution, soldiers have stood ready to defend their country, freedoms and civil liberties with their lives.

"As a result of that sacrifice, our nation has been free, prosperous and the envy of the world throughout its history.

“Americans owe a special debt of gratitude to our fallen soldiers and gold star families. I am especially grateful that my colleagues in the state Assembly finally joined an effort I have long championed to grant the dependants of fallen soldiers free college tuition.

"I am also proud to continue the tradition of Patriot trips to Washington, D.C., the annual trip I take with veterans and their families to visit the Capitol of our country, which they fought so hard to protect. 

“As the son of a World War II veteran and a veteran of the military myself, standing up for veterans is a duty I will never overlook. That is why I cherish my position on the Veterans’ Affairs Committee in the Assembly.

"In the coming weeks, I look forward to continuing my fight for legislation to exempt honorably discharged veterans from Thruway tolls, veterans over 85 years old from paying state income tax, and extending state benefits to promote veteran-owned businesses.

“Nevertheless, on this Memorial Day I want to extend a special salute to our fallen soldiers and all of our nation’s Gold Star families. As a nation, we must never forget their extraordinary service and patriotism.”

Ranzenhofer honors Le Royan at Albany Veterans' Hall of Fame

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and press release:

State Senator Mike Ranzenhofer welcomed Thomas E. Feeley, corporal in the Marine Corps and Le Roy resident, to Albany to be inducted into the Veterans’ Hall of Fame it was announced today.

“Tom has dedicated his life to serving our country, through his military career, career in law enforcement and his service with the Le Roy Fire Department," Ranzenhofer said. "It is a privilege to be able to induct him into the Veterans’ Hall of Fame.”

Feeley was a corporal in the Marine Corps from 1990-1993, serving in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. Afterward, he served as an elite Embassy Marine at the American Embassy Lusaka, Zambia, and the Consulate General Munich, Germany.

Following his military service, Corporal Feeley began his federal law enforcement career in 1996 in Miami. In 1998, he assisted in the opening of the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia.

After 9-11, he became a Federal Air Marshal in Atlanta, serving from 2002-2006. Corporal Feeley was a Course Developer/Instructor and Branch Chief at the Immigration and Customs Academy from 2006-2008, and was then promoted to Assistant Field Office Director in Salt Lake City, Utah.

In 2017, Feeley joined the Senior Executive Service and became Buffalo Field Office director, covering 48 of the 62 counties in New York State.

“I am honored to be recognized by the Senator," Feeley said. "My entire career and civilian life have been dedicated to public service in one way or another.

"I don’t have a lot of spare time, but I do have some time and I think that’s important. Just giving back to my community is enough for me, to be recognized for it on such a grand scale with my family present was an amazing experience.”

Feeley is a recipient of the Navy Achievement Medal, Navy Unit Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal (with two bronze service stars), Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon (with one bronze service star), Marine Security Guard Ribbon, Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia and Kuwait).

He also received the Secretary for the Department of Homeland Security’s Meritorious Service Silver Medal in 2016. This award recognizes “exceptional individual leadership that is distinguished by achievements of marked significance” and is the second highest award given by the Secretary.

Feeley is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, Le Roy Rotary, Association of Rochester Police and Area Law Enforcement Retirees and Genesee County Criminal Justice Advisory Council. He is also an active member of the Le Roy Fire Department.

Byron-Bergen Girls Varsity Softball Team supports Wounded Warrior Foundation

By Billie Owens

Above, the Byron-Bergen Girls Varsity Softball Team, York Varsity Softball Team, and local veterans participating in the ceremony.

Submitted photos and press release:

On Tuesday, May 14, the Byron-Bergen Girls Varsity Softball Team honored several local veterans in their Second Annual Wounded Warrior Foundation Charity Game and Fundraiser.

The event featured a moment of silence, an escorted procession to home plate, and a salute to the flag. In addition, the Varsity team joined forces with visiting York players to raise more than $3,000 for the Wounded Warrior Foundation.

“The players are passionate about supporting this cause,” said Head Softball Coach Mariah LaSpina. “Many of them have relatives who have served and a few of them plan to enter service themselves aftergraduation. I’m proud of their dedication to supporting and honoring our service men and women.”

In attendance were several veterans currently with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department as well as veterans from the local community. In a touching moment, three of the Varsity players escorted their grandfathers to home plate in honor of their service.

“As a veteran, I can’t tell you how proud I am of the softball program,” said Byron-Bergen Athletic Director Rich Hannan. “Coach LaSpina and the players really own this project from start to finish and I applaud them.”

Photos by Gretchen Spittler.

Below, Byron-Bergen School Resource Office and Marine Corps veteran Matthew Butler escorted by Byron-Bergen Girls Varsity Softball players Lizzy and Becca.

Below, veterans and players face the flag for the National Anthem.

Below, Vietnam veteran Fred Bauer Jr., escorted by his granddaughter Chloe and fellow teammate Lucy.

Attention All: City wants YOU to show up and pay respects at Memorial Day Parade -- vets, groups welcome to be in it

By Billie Owens

An invitation from Bob Bialkowski, Batavia City councilman at large:

This is an invitation to all members of the community to participate in this year’s Batavia Memorial Day parade on Memorial Day Monday May 27th.

The City of Batavia is sponsoring the parade and we are looking forward to another great turnout.

The parade will kick off at 9:45 a.m from the Eastown Plaza on East Main Street and end at the Alva Place parking lot downtown. People can then attend the Veterans Memorial Service at the Memorial site across the street at the Jerome Center.

Any veterans wishing to participate in the parade can just show up at 9:15. Veterans needing a ride in the parade please contact me.

Any groups wishing to participate please let us know as all are welcome. Please keep the theme of respect to all our veteran and first responders.

Let’s show our support to our veterans and first responders! Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy our annual parade.

Thank you,

Bob Bialkowski

585 409-3624

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