Kaden Lyons, 9, models his Harley-Davidson gear atop his dad's bike at the YWCA's Wheels and Heels fundraiser today at Stan's Harley-Davidson.
The event featured a fashion show and Kaden was one of the models.
Funds raised will be used for the YW's for domestic violence programs.
The event's band was "driVen," with Mike Warren on bass and vocals, Dylan DeSmit on lead guitar and vocals and Alex DeSmit on drums.
So far, the YWCA has at least 108 Malibu lights to replace the 36 that were destroyed by a vandal over the weekend.
The lights were part of a display called the Walkway of Hope, and were meant as a symbol against domestic violence. The lights were placed during a ceremony honoring Nicole Sheehan, who was murdered, allegedly by a domestic partner.
Sheehan's mother, Suzanne Ball, was at the YWCA on North Street on Wednesday evening to help reinstall some of the lights, along with Steven Foster of Adams Welding and Fabrication.
Stevens said Adams wanted to donate lights because giving hope to the victims of domestic violence is important.
"If one person walks up the walkway and saves a life and gets help, it's not in vain," Foster said.
Lights have also been donated by Mike and Norine Adams and John Peck, and at least one other man has called, according to Executive Director Jeanne Walton, to say he was bringing lights.
"It's been overwhelming," Walton said. "We've been shocked by the support we've gotten from so many people like Adams Welding and Fabrication, as well as a few others, that have just come forth and brought us lights to replace the ones that were destroyed."
All of the lights will be placed outside the Y, Walton said. That will send a powerful message, she said, to whomever destroyed the first set of lights.
Ball agreed.
"We're letting them know nobody is putting our lights out," Ball said.
Mike Adams called The Batavian after the story appeared and said he wasn't looking for any publicity of the plan (at that time) of his wife and he to make the donation, but he didn't mind being quoted calling the vandal a "coward."
"My only statement would be I guess is getting the point across, who's the coward out there who would do something like that, destroying a memorial for that young girl?" Adams said. "We're pretty upset about it."
So are a lot of other people.
Press release:
YWCA's 2014 Wheels & Heels event includes something for everyone, from a cool vehicle show and motorcycle ride to a bicycle rally, basket auction, fashion show, food fest and children's games. It's set for 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 26 at Stan's Harley-Davidson, 4425 W. Saile Drive, Batavia.
The party is being thrown to benefit YWCA of Genesee County, specifically to fund new programs for children affected by domestic violence.
As bicycles head out on a 25-mile trek, motorcyclists will go on a 100-mile trip around Genesee County. There will be a few stops and goodies along the way, with the finale at Stan's, where more fun will continue.
The registration fee for the vehicle show, motorcycle and bike rides is $25.
Admission to Wheels & Heels is $5, and that includes entry for a drawing tickets, registration forms or more information, call (585) 343-5808.
Assorted foods will be available for purchase, including lobster rolls, seafood chowder, grilled hotdogs, pulled pork, ice cream treats and popcorn. Spectators may also want to check out the assorted vehicles on display, fashions on a flatbed and live entertainment.
"driVen," a three-piece rock band from Genesee and Orleans counties, features Mike Warren on bass and vocals, Dylan DeSmit on lead guitar and vocals and special guest drummers Alex DeSmit and Dan Ryan. The band has been performing for about a year at various locations in Western New York and bills itself as “not just another cookie-cutter classic rock band.” It features both classic and modern rock. Warren was previously the bass player and vocalist for Savage Cabbage and Dylan DeSmit was the founder of Above the Fog and currently performs with Zero, Delano Steele, The Night is Young and Methanol.
Not to be left out, kids can play in a bounce house and will have the challenge of a scavenger hunt with opportunity to win prizes. Youth and adults will be walking the runway to show off fashions from local merchants.
Announcement of the YW's $10,000 cash raffle will be made at 4:30 p.m., though winners need not be present. Tickets are going fast, at $15 each, $60 for five or $100 for 10. There will also be several items up for bid in a basket auction.
All proceeds will help serve some of the most vulnerable victims of domestic violence: the children, Executive Director Jeanne Walton said.
YWCA staff has developed the You Engaging Success program for victims of issues that come about for children who are being exposed to domestic violence in the home.
"So that they can move forward, away from the cycle of fear and anger," Walton said.
The lighted path leading to the door of the YWCA was intended to be a symbol of hope for the victims of domestic violence and a remembrance for a former Batavia woman who died recently.
The lights were installed just a week ago.
This weekend, they were all destroyed.
"I personally think it was a malicious, intentional act," said Jeanne Walton, the YWCA executive director. "I think somebody did it to be mean and nasty and to make a statement."
Ever single Malibu light was broken. None remain usable.
"It was a symbolic remembrance of recent murder victim Nicole Sheehan, who had been killed during a domestic dispute," Walton said. "We put in the Walkway of Hope up in her honor."
If anybody has information that may assist in the criminal investigation, Walton asked that they call Batavia PD at (585) 345-6350.
Press release:
YWCA of Genesee County has received a grant for $11,000 thanks to the generosity of the Verizon Wireless HopeLine grant program.
HopeLine's goal is to provide funding for domestic violence organizations as a way to support client services, raise public awareness, train staff or help in other related areas.
YWCA is in the process of developing a transitional program for victims of domestic violence. Its name of "You Engaging Success" means exactly that for victims who want and need to move on from a crisis: success comes through counseling, training and being more secure with social, financial, emotional and physical aspects of life.
"As an organization that strives to empower women, YWCA is the perfect catalyst for change in domestic violence situations. We know that this type of program can offer victims a boost for their self-esteem while providing practical lessons," Executive Director Jeanne Walton said. "We want to offer hope to victims and help them to move on with their lives. You Engaging Success is saying YES to a life free from physical or emotional abuse."
This new program is slated to begin by early 2015. YWCA, a nonprofit agency based in Batavia, has set a goal to raise $100,000 to get it off the ground and flourishing over the next several years. YW's Domestic Violence Crisis & Prevention Services program serves approximately 700 new victims a year. If 10 to 20 people participate in the transitional program each year, that could have a residual effect on hundreds of others who are affected by domestic violence as friends, neighbors, family and coworkers, Walton said.
The new program would not be possible without generous businesses and organizations such as Verizon Wireless, she said.
Domestic violence is, unfortunately, a prevalent issue in our community, said Chris Felix, president of the Verizon Wireless Upstate New York Region.
"It’s organizations like the YWCA that are on the front lines of this issue, working hard every day to make our communities safer," Felix said. "At Verizon Wireless, we’re just fortunate to have some resources available to help organizations like the YWCA do their job. We thank the YWCA for everything they do to support domestic violence survivors in our community."
For more information about YW's programs and services, which also include quality child care and a Summer Adventure Camp for kids, call (585) 343-5808.
City residents gathered at the front lawn of the YWCA Thursday night for a candlelight vigil in memory of Nicole Sheehan. Sheehan, a former Batavia resident, was murdered by her boyfriend in Chautaqua County in June. She was 29 years old.
Roula Alkhouri, pastor of Batavia's First Presbyterian Church, called Sheehan's murder a "senseless loss" in her address to the crowd.
She noted that domestic violence is "ancient," and cited victims mentioned in the Bible -- including Dinah, the daughter of the patriarch Jacob, and Tamar, the daughter of King David.
Additionally, she called attention to the need for more awareness of domestic violence in our own times by sharing some startling statistics. According to Alkhouri, research shows that one in every four women will become the victims of domestic violence.
"How many relationships begin as stories of love," she said, "and then become stories of fear."
But she also had some words of hope -- and a call to action.
"Yes, there is ugliness and cruelty in the world," she said. "But the goodness and love in the community often outweighs this."
As the candles began to die out, Alkhouri encouraged everyone to "keep the candles lit in (their) minds, because bad things can only hide in the darkness."
"It's in changing who we are as a community that we'll make a difference in the world," she said.
As an example of the "light" she was talking about, she mentioned the YWCA. She expressed gratitude that Genesee County has a "safe place" where victims of domestic violence can come to hear that they are cared for, that it's not their fault, and that there is hope.
In addition to Alkhouri's address, the night included some brief comments by YWCA Executive Director Jeanne Walton and Domestic Violence Crisis and Prevention Services Director Cindy Earl, as well as some music and light refreshments.
For more information on the YWCA and its services to victims of domestic violence, call 343-7513 or visit their Web site.
Press release:
YWCA of Genesee County has been doing some restructuring and, as a result, will not offer The Market @ North Street this year.
The Sunday market will be reconsidered next year. For more information, call (585) 343-5808.
Press release:
YWCA of Genesee County extends its heartfelt sympathy to the family and friends of Nicole Sheehan, a 29-year-old Batavia native who died from an apparent domestic violence shooting a week ago in Lancaster.
This tragic incident is another painful reminder that domestic violence is about so much more than arguments and debates; it can have grave consequences, Executive Director Jeanne Walton said.
As a gentle reminder that YWCA is here to help with Domestic Violence Crisis & Prevention Services, the agency will be lighting its walkway this week at 301 North St. as a visual display that there is hope, Walton said. Victims can always confidentially call YWCA for guidance, help and referrals to appropriate avenues that will take them out of a potentially harmful situation and into safety.
"We ask that people join us in spirit as we light up our walkway in Nicole's memory," Walton said. "And to please help -- through your increased awareness -- those others who may be struggling with a domestic violence situation. We offer advocacy, safe housing and, perhaps most importantly, a 24-hour hotline so that everyone has opportunity to reach out for help when needed."
Domestic Violence Crisis & Prevention Services Director Cindy Earl said there is usually a Domestic Violence Services office in each county. If you're unsure about where to turn for help or guidance, call the hotline at (585) 343-7513.
"Everybody's mission is to find a safe location for a potential victim if they think the person's abuser is going to do something harmful," Earl said. "We take them very seriously and will do everything we can to put them in a safe location."
Sometimes abuse is not evident to friends, family and coworkers, she said. If you even suspect that something like that is going on in someone's life, reach out for help. And if you are in a relationship that makes you feel threatened in any way, make the call. It's free and confidential.
Paul Berardini, owner of Big Pauly's Pizza, donated $200 to the YWCA's domestic violence program today and presented the donation to Linsey Vallett. The donation is comprised of $2 from each large pizza Pauly's sold on Monday.
Join us at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 29, for a Lia Sophia Party at Thursday's Ladies Night Out, held at the YWCA at 301 North St. in the City of Batavia.
Lia Sophia offers a wide range of jewelry for work, play and dressy fashions. During the party, every Lia Sophia order will be entered into a drawing to win a $25 gift certificate to My Sister's Closet or The Artisans @ North Street.
Ladies Night Out is from 4 to 7 p.m. every Thursday and features:
Press release:
You are invited to a Ladies Night Out! from 4 to 7 p.m. every Thursday at My Sister's Closet at YWCA, 301 North St. in the City of Batavia.
Every event is to include refreshments, special promotions, personal shoppers, double punches on your Loyalty Card and camaraderie with fellow shoppers!
Pick up your Loyalty Card and get it punched for every $5 you spend. Once your card is filled with 10 punches, you will get $5 of free merchandise.
The Closet is filled with colorful spring clothing and accessories, so come check it out! All proceeds go toward YW's Domestic Violence Crisis & Prevention Services program.
The Closet's hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday; and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
For more information, call (585) 343-5808.
Town of Batavia Supervisor Greg Post was among several people attending the Fabulous Females awards dinner at Terry Hills tonight attired in hats that would put Kentucky Derby patrons to shame.
This year's honorees were Loren Penman, the Blossom Award, Elizabeth Myers, the Petal Award and Hannah Durham, the Seedling Award.
The dinner is sponsored by the YWCA and the Friends of the Batavia Peace Garden.
Beth Allen
Martha Bailey
Jeanne Walton, director of the YWCA, and Barb Toal, with the Peace Garden.
Joan and Greg Post
Betsy Grasso, Beth Grasso, Carol Grasso and Lorraine Nolan.
The YWCA hosted a chicken BBQ lunch and giant thrift store sale today at its location on North Street, Batavia.
Above, Director Jeannie Walton instructs volunteers on preparing chicken BBQ dishes.
The sale is going until 4 p.m. today.
Click the graphic or click here to enter. Must complete registration form to be eligible for prize.
Press release:
BATAVIA -- YWCA is seeking vendors to sell assorted products including vegetables, meats, cheeses, honey, jams, jellies, maple syrup, baked goods, fruits, herbs, flowers and other agricultural-related items for its weekly Market at North Street set to begin early this summer. It
will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays from July to October.
Tables are $10 per week or 25-percent off for vendors who commit to the entire season. The Market has been growing with its offerings and customers, and YWCA staff plans to further that success this year. Crafters may book up to two Sundays each on a first come, first served
basis. This will allow for more variety of artisan-style items each week.
"We welcome anyone interested in selling your locally grown or produced goods as part of our ongoing effort to empower small business in Genesee County and the surrounding area," Executive Director Jeanne Walton said. "Our Farmers’ Market emphasizes an ongoing relationship with all local agricultural producers. It is designed to highlight their work and celebrate their significant contributions to our community."
Entertainers are also invited to participate in the Market with your talents of singing, acting, bellydancing, yoga or whatever it may be. It's a great opportunity for exposure to the public while providing a fun and entertaining Market experience, Walton said.
For an application or to get more information, call (585) 343-5808.
WHAT: The Market @ North Street
WHEN: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays (July to October)
WHERE: YWCA of Genesee County, 301 North St., Batavia
Press release:
YWCA of Genesee County, Inc., is accepting nominations for this year's Fabulous Females Awards. Deadline for submissions is March 21. The awards will be presented during this year's "A Garden Party: Celebrating YWCA's Fabulous Females and Friends of Batavia Peace Garden" on May 10 at Terry Hills.
There are four award categories:
Nomination forms for Fabulous Females are available online at www.ywcagenesee.org <http://www.ywcagenesee.org> or at YWCA, 301 North St. in the City of Batavia. Event tickets are $35 each or $250 for a table of eight. For more information, call (585) 343-5808.
"We know there are many special women in Genesee County, and we look forward to highlighting four of them while honoring all of them during our dinner this year," YW Executive Director Jeanne Walton said. "It will be a beautifully decorated event to set the mood and complement those being recognized."
This year, YWCA has merged its efforts with Friends of Batavia Peace Garden to throw "A Garden Party" and honor supporters of the Peace Garden and Fabulous Females recipients. It's set for 5 p.m. May 10 at Terry Hills, Route 33.
The evening will include social hour, dinner, a special toast to award recipients and a garden hat contest. Organizers of both nonprofits promise that it will be a fun evening as it signals the start of an ongoing relationship.
"We are partners in peace to begin collaborations of nonprofits in Batavia," Peace Garden spokeswoman Marilyn Werner said. "This is the first step. Considering everything the YWCA stands for and everything the Peace Garden stands for, it makes sense for us to work together."
Press release:
YWCA of Genesee County has launched a 2014 appeal to help support the Domestic Violence Crisis & Prevention Services program.
There are an estimated 6,000 victims of domestic violence in Genesee County, and YW staff plans to serve at least 1,000 of them this year. That is 300 more than the average number served, Executive Director Jeanne Walton says.
"Our goal is to open a door of hope for victims of domestic violence," Walton said. "They often can't even imagine the freedom and joy waiting for them. All campaign donations will go a long way in helping us to get the job done."
YWCA has scheduled a year of fundraisers to not only fuel the nonprofit's programs but to recognize, honor and celebrate special people in the community. Events include a Fabulous Females dinner on May 10, Wheels & Heels party on July 26, and the Stiletto/Sneaker Walk and Community Harvest Supper on Oct. 1. More details are to come.
Tucked into these special events is The YES! Cafe, a lunchtime program on the second Wednesday of each month.
Tomorrow, Feb. 12, patrons can "Follow Your Heart" with last-minute Valentine's gifts starting at noon. A lunch of a baked potato with assorted toppings, salad bar and a red velvet cookie sandwich will be served as various gift vendors display and sell their goods. Items will include body contour wraps, infinity scarves, soaps, lotions, flameless candles, purses, jewelry, specialty vinegars and much more.
For more information about any programs and services at YWCA, call (585) 343-5808.
WHAT: The YES! Cafe's December Program
WHEN: Noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11
WHERE: YWCA, 301 North St., Batavia
BATAVIA -- Things are getting sweet at YWCA this month with a special cookies and confections program during The YES! Cafe.
Patrons will have the opportunity to bid on plates of locally made baked goods, purchase some as gifts or for home, sample some sweet treats and get tips for making your own goodies special. It's set for noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11 at the nonprofit, 301 North St.
Lunch includes chicken marsala, salad bar, roll and butter and Italian cookies. $10 includes meal and program. Take-outs are available for those who can't stay. To register or get more information, call (585) 343-5808.
The Artisans at North Street and YWCA of Genesee in Batavia seek artisans and crafters for the upcoming Holiday Bazaar on Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.
The Artisans at North Street gift shop is located at 301 North Street in Batavia inside the YWCA building. We offer locally made handcrafted soaps, journals, scarves, quilts and more at reasonable prices.
The upcoming Holiday Bazaar ends our first anniversary celebration with a raffle. Tables are $15 each. For more information call: YWCA office at 585-343-5808.
Press release:
YWCA of Genesee County Congratulates the recipients of this year's Fabulous Females Awards! They are:
Please join us in a toast to these superior females during this year's Fabulous Females Awards Luncheon!
It's at noon Saturday, Nov. 16 at Genesee Community College. Tickets are $25 and may be purchased at YWCA or Bank of Castile.
***Sponsorship opportunities are still available! They range from Bronze at $350 to Platinum for $2,500. All levels include at least one reserved table for 10 guests plus print and special recognition advertising privileges. For more information, please call (585) 343-5808.
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