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Today's local deals: Batavia's Original, Adam Miller, Alabama Hotel, and more

By Kara Richenberg

NOTE: Members of Early Access Pass get first crack (four hours earlier access than non-members) at making Deals of the Day purchases. Join Early Access Pass today to ensure you don't miss any valuable deals.

Today's Deals:

  • Batavia's Original
  • Adam Miller Toy and Bicycle
  • Alabama Hotel
  • Fortune's Restaurant at Batavia Downs
  • T.F. Brown's
  • Settler's Family Restaurant

Batavia school officials to be 'extra cautious' during attempted closure of Education Department

By Joanne Beck
john Marucci 220

After a review of Batavia City Schools’ budget Monday evening, Business Administrator Andrew Lang asked for questions, and Board President John Marucci had a big one.

“With what’s happening with the Education Department federally, how is this going to harm us in the future?” Marucci said.

Two people injured in accident in Pavilion on Monday

By Staff Writer
pavilion car crash

Pavilion Fire responded to a two car motor vehicle accident at 4:28 p.m. on Monday at Perry Road and Route 20.

Le Roy Fire assisted at the scene along with Mercy EMS.

Both drivers were injured and treated by Mercy EMS.

Photos via Pavilion Fire.

pavilion car crash
pavilion car crash

Coyotes defeat the Penguins 3-1 in Men's League Hockey Championship

By Steve Ognibene
Kioti Tractor Coyotes won the Batavia Mens hockey League Championship, sunday morning at the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Kioti Tractor Coyotes won the Batavia Mens hockey League Championship, sunday morning at the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena. Photo by Steve Ognibene

Kioti Tractor Coyotes beat the Pellegrino Auto Sales Penguins 3-1, on Sunday at the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena to win the Batavia Men's League Hockey Championship.

After a scoreless first period, fourteen seconds into the second period, the Coyotes scored a goal by Nick Busch with assists fom Dan Calkins and Pierce Corbelli.  Thirteen seconds later, the Penguins tied it up 1-1 on an unassisted goal by Dylan Versage.

The Penguins got back-to-back penalties late in the second, and with five minutes left, Busch scored his second goal on the power play to give the Coyotes the lead going in the locker room and ice re-surface.

In the third period, Busch scores his third goal for the hat trick on passes from Joe Mahler and Dan Calkins to secure the victory and give the championship to the Coyotes, managed by Tom Martell.

Busch said he's proud of his teammate's effort in the game.

"We have a great group of guys," he said. "Everybody skated hard. Everybody played hard all year."

He called Jerod Penke, Coyotes' goalie and the game's MVP, the best player in the league.

"This is my first ever championship, and the BMHL, it's a whole lot of fun," Penke said. "This group of guys has been really fun this year, and went out and played really good all year, came in first, I think, in the regular season, came and won it all. It was great to do it with these guys."

To view or purchase photos, click here.

 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
Radio Broadcaster Steven Pies, announcing the game for 1490 WBTA, interviews Guy and joe Pellegrino from Pellegrino Auto Sales during the second intermission.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Radio Broadcaster Steven Pies, announcing the game for 1490 WBTA, interviews Guy and joe Pellegrino from Pellegrino Auto Sales during the second intermission.  
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Tom Martell , team sponsor for Kioti Tractor, pictured with his sons Nick and Tim.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Tom Martell , team sponsor for Kioti Tractor, pictured with his sons Nick and Tim.  
Photo by Steve Ognibene 
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene

Still little and free, the pantry will be moving from Batavia church site to downtown and elsewhere

By Joanne Beck
little free pantry
Photo by Howard Owens

After two years at First Presbyterian Church in Batavia, the Little Free Pantry is on the move, with fingers crossed that volunteers have found a new location for their full-sized refrigerator and a shelf-stable pantry will be opening downtown this week, Jenn Noon says.

Due to circumstances beyond their control, the pantry will likely close by Wednesday, she said.

“Over the years, we’ve had to relocate several times for situations that we’re out of our control, like Birchwood Village, they went to a new property owner, and situations like this. But thanks to the support from our community, these challenges and things overall turn into just small hurdles, and our overall story,” Noon said during an interview with The Batavian. “I do have exciting news: we have an appointment on Monday to go and visit a potential new location for the fridge, so we’re hoping that that’ll be a good fit, and we’ll have an update on that next week.”

As for a second site for nonperishable goods, tea and coffee, she is working with a business owner at Batavia City Centre and “they’re totally on board” with allowing a portion of the store's front entrance to be used for the pantry, Noon said. She didn’t want to disclose the name until details have been finalized but believes it’s a great fit for that location where people congregate while waiting for a bus or getting dropped off.

“So we’re hoping to get that set up this week as well, and be able to share that soon too,” she said.

The pantry at First Presbyterian Church, on the corner of East Main and Liberty streets, has been outside. There have been some issues with people not being courteous when taking items from the site, Noon said.

“So, unfortunately, we do face challenges, things like unkind visitors that make a mess out front. It's something that little free pantries all across the U.S., unfortunately, experience issues with. We've had an issue, for example, of kids opening a bag of black beans and tossing them at their friend, because we do operate on such a low barrier method. Unfortunately, there are folks that might be in a crisis situation, or, like I said, kids and things like that. So unfortunately, there’s challenges, but we're always working on addressing those challenges and addressing the needs of the community,” she said. “Basically, the model that us and all the other little free pantries and community fridges, one of the big things that they try to reduce is what they call policing of the pantries. And it just basically means that, again, trying to reduce those barriers, a lot of folks are, there's some shame in reaching out for help. Or, you know, we have a lot of kids that stop by after school and things like that.

“We do monitor at certain points, like when we have our popups, or we do our routine down there several times a day cleaning up,” she said. “Some locations we've been able to install a camera, so we're able to monitor things a little bit more easily, remotely. That really just depends on the host of that specific location and working together with them on what works best for that spot.”

Noon and the Rev. Roula Alkhouri of First Presbyterian each said they plan to continue a partnership to work on future projects.

“We are very supportive of their efforts and mission. Their mission aligns with our commitment to serve and love our neighbors. In the last month, we have helped them purchase a new refrigerator for storing extra produce. We will continue to support them and provide hands-on assistance going forward in any way that we can, including their popup and annual events,” Alkhouri said.  “While they will be missed at our church location, our care and love will continue for their work of providing food for those who need it. We believe that God works in mysterious ways, and that even in times of transition, new opportunities for service and partnership will emerge. 

“We will continue to seek ways to support the Little Free Pantry and other initiatives that address food insecurity in our community,” she said. “We extend our deepest gratitude to the dedicated volunteers and supporters of the Little Free Pantry.  May God bless them as they embark on this new chapter.”

The two organizations will be working together on initiatives including a maternal health and wellness effort, and “big, huge events around Christmas,” Noon said.

“It’s just the outdoor pantry wasn’t the best model for that location,” she said. “Every spot’s not a good match. We still have our location at 28 Seneca. It is open 24/7, it was our old farm stand location that we had up just during the summer. But last year at Thanksgiving we actually found a really nice structure that we were able to put up there and get that up and going.”

There are bakery items, shelf-stable goods, bicycle helmets, and warm clothing, and in the summertime, there will be produced from Ryan’s Rose Organic Farm, which has generously partnered with the pantry since the first year it opened, Noon said. The farm owner, Tom Ryan, is helping out with the pantry’s maternal health and wellness program — “he jumped right on board and is totally willing to support us, so we’re really grateful for him.”

Noon is also assisting some folks in Erie and Orleans counties wanting to open some little pantries there, she said. She has four core volunteers and partners of grocery stores, bakeries and restaurants for food donations. Some 90% of the food received would have been thrown out, she said.

“So that’s a big part of our mission, is trying to reduce food waste,” she said. “There’s a lot of perfectly good food that completely would get discarded. Otherwise, we do try to source that and bring it back to our community.”

Anyone interested in volunteering may go HERE and join the volunteer page to learn of ways to help. If you have a potential host site for a pantry, send a message through the website

little free pantry
Photo by Howard Owens

GO Art! invites artists' submissions to embrace the creative possibilities of garbage in the 'This Art is Garbage' exhibition

By Press Release

Press Release:

In an exploration of unconventional creativity, Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council (Go Art!) is thrilled to announce the second annual call for submissions for the upcoming exhibition titled “This Art is Garbage.” This unique showcase is dedicated to reimagining the role of garbage and waste, offering artists an unparalleled platform to transform discarded items into captivating works of art. 

Artists of all skill levels—from high school students to emerging artists and seasoned professionals take this opportunity to redirect the fate of what would normally be forsaken to landfills into inspiring and thought-provoking pieces.

The submission window for the exhibition will be open from April 9 to April 12, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. The artist reception will take place on April 17, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Guidelines for Submissions:

  1. Integration of Garbage: Submitted works must feature garbage either as a material component of the artwork or as its subject. We welcome innovations in texture and pattern creation using waste or thoughtfully engaging with garbage as a motif. (e.g. creative photography of discarded objects)
  2. Restrictions: “Upcycled” items, such as painted furniture, are not accepted.
  3. Size Limitation: Artworks must not exceed dimensions of 24 x 30 inches and should be wired and prepared for hanging. Works not ready for display will regretfully be declined.
  4. Submission: Each artist is permitted to submit up to two pieces for consideration. There is no entry fee.
  5. Entry registration: For more information and to submit your work, please visit https://forms.gle/QSzPYNLg2xe3h2fC6.

Let us come together to redefine the narrative around garbage and celebrate the transformative power of art. Join us in this inspiring journey of reclamation and artistic innovation. Submit your work today and be a part of a movement that finds beauty in the disposed, making the invisible, unmissable.

For More Information contact Jackie Swaby, 585-343-9313.

Genesee Community College delivers $86.4 million in GLOW economic impact

By Press Release

Press Release:

Since its founding in 1966, Genesee Community College has improved the lives of residents in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming (GLOW) counties. Beyond the wide variety of educational services and community resources provided, Genesee has become one of the most significant economic engines in the region.

Genesee Community College is proud to announce the results of a recent study by Lightcast, a global leader in labor market analytics. The study highlights its significant contributions to the local economy and the return on investment for public funders, taxpayers and community affiliates. The analysis, based on fiscal year 2022-23 data, underscores GCC's pivotal role in driving economic growth and fostering social benefits within the GLOW Service Area.

"GCC's mission extends beyond education; we are an economic and social driver for our community," said Dr. Craig Lamb, President of Genesee Community College. "This analysis confirms the profound and lasting benefits GCC delivers to our students, taxpayers and the GLOW region."

Economic Impact Highlights:

  • $86.4 Million Added to the Local Economy: This represents 0.9% of the region's total gross regional product, supporting 1,163 jobs.
  • For Taxpayers: For every $1.00 spent in public funds, our community gains $7.70 in added income and social savings.
  • Student Spending Impact: Relocated and retained students added $2 million in income to the GLOW service area economy.
  • Alumni Impact: The net impact of GCC alumni currently employed in the regional workforce amounted to $57.5 million in added income.
  • Operations Spending Impact: GCC employed 412 faculty and staff, with a $24.7 million payroll largely spent locally. Additionally, GCC added $14.4 million in operational expenses.
  • Construction Spending Impact: GCC's capital projects generated $855,000 in additional regional income.

For more information, contact Vice President, Development, Admissions and External Affairs Justin Johnston at 585-345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Board of Directors meeting set for Tuesday

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County Board of Directors meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. on March 25. The meeting will be held at the Association at 420 E. Main St. in Batavia and is open to the public.

For more information, please contact Yvonne Peck at ydp3@cornell.edu or 585-343-3040 x123.

Byron-Bergen senior Roman Smith commits to Roberts Wesleyan for track and cross-country

By Press Release
smithrunsforroberts.jpg
Roman Smith commits to continuing his athletic and academic career at Roberts Wesleyan University. 
Back row: (left to right) Dave Bateman, Matthias Ellis, Malachi Smith, Genevieve Smith, Decan Smith, Coach Josh Brabon, and Rich Hannon 
Front Row: (left to right) Roosevelt Smith, Roman Smith, Liza Smith, and Solomon Smith
Photo by Gretchen Spittler.

Press Release:

On March 18, Byron-Bergen senior Roman Smith committed to continuing his formal education after graduation at Roberts Wesleyan University where he will run track and cross-country. The official signing was witnessed by Byron-Bergen Athletic Director Rich Hannan, Varsity Cross Country and Track Coach David Bateman, Varsity Wrestling Coach Matthias Ellis, JV Wrestling Coach Josh Brabon, and Smith’s parents and siblings.

“Roman has been an amazing athlete to coach over the past several years,” said Bateman. “The hard work he puts in every year has paid off as he has improved every season and has won several individual and team sectional titles. I have no doubt Roman will have success at the next level and look forward to seeing what the future holds for him.”

While at Byron-Bergen, Smith starred as a lead in the musical his sophomore, junior, and senior years, served as Student Council President, Varsity Club Vice-President, National Honor Society President, National Junior Honor Society President, Tenor Section Leader in Singing Silhouettes, Captain of the Wrestling and Cross Country teams, and was honored multiple times as a Genesee Region All-Star for track and wrestling. He also plays percussion in the band, and is a member of the SADD club, 5-Minute-Mile club, 412 Club, and is a Super Bee.

“I would like to thank my family coaches and friends, and most importantly God for all the blessings and gifts he's given me over the course of my life,” said Smith. “I'm looking forward to meeting new people and the various experiences college life will have to offer.”

Smith plans to major in bio-med and minor in psychology.

Officers use tools available to fight fire until Le Roy Fire arrives on scene

By Howard B. Owens
lincoln ave fire

Local law enforcement officers were the first on scene on Monday afternoon for a house fire at 24 Lincoln Ave., Le Roy, and jumped into action with three fire extinguishers and a garden hose to help keep the fire under control until Le Roy Fire arrived on scene.

The responding officers were Officer Terrez Smith, Detective James Prusak, and Deputy Jenna Fernando.

The fire was reported at about 1:40 p.m. with smoke and flames showing. 

Bergen Fire, Pavilion Fire, and Stafford Fire also responded.

It took about 20 minutes to extinguish the fire.

Photos via Le Roy Police Department.

lincoln ave fire

Sponsored Post: Bontrager; Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to bid in a public internet auction for a beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 story home

By Sponsored Post
Bontrager


Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to bid in a public internet auction for a beautiful 4-bedroom, 2-story home, showcasing exquisite Victorian-era rooms and a breathtaking staircase. Nestled in the charming Town of Alabama, NY, this property exudes historical elegance. Updates will be needed to restore the home to its original splendor, but it holds tremendous potential. 

Enhancing its appeal, the estate includes a delightful carriage house and an intriguing "ice house," all set on a generous lot of nearly one acre. This is more than just a home; it's a chance to own a piece of history.

Showings are encouraged, and Bontrager Real Estate & Auction Service is happy to collaborate with other real estate brokers. Internet bidding will close on Wednesday, April 2nd, at 7:00 PM. For details, pictures, and terms, please visit bontragerauction.com. If you have additional questions, you can contact Todd Jantzi, Auctioneer and Real Estate Broker at Bontrager Real Estate & Auction Service, at todd@bontragerauction.com or 585-343-4529.

Stafford facility a 'perfect setup' for counseling and treatment services site

By Joanne Beck
Sheila Hunt and Chris Nalbach
Sheila Hunt and Chris Nalbach each oversee one of two branches of OLV Human Services at a new location at 5762 Route 5 in Stafford. 
Photo by Joanne Beck

Two branches of Erie County-based OLV Human Services have chosen to widen their scope and settle into Genesee County under one roof to offer counseling, evaluation and treatment for children and adults.

One is the OLV Outpatient Counseling Clinic with each a part-time and a full-time clinical therapist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner, Chief Program Officer Sheila Hunt said.

“We wanted to expand into five different counties; we’re already in Erie and Niagara County. Genesee just made the most sense. So when we saw that this facility was for rent, we came out and took a look at it, and it just made the most sense for us to start here first, because it was perfect. It had this perfect setup for our operation clinic, and then it had the perfect setup for our evaluation and treatment clinic,” she said of the site at 5762 Route 5 in Stafford. “This is the first time we ventured out to a county outside of Erie County. So this is the first one, but we're not stopping here. Once we get this up and running, our strategic plan is to be known as a behavioral health provider, so we're going to keep forging ahead. There's a need, and we just want to help be a resource.”

Therapists will provide services for individuals and families for a variety of issues, including addiction, ADHD, depression, anxiety, sleep problems, domestic violence, grief, and psychosis, and are open to group sessions if there are appropriate numbers of individuals to form a group, Hunt said.

The nurse practitioner is licensed to do medication management, and most insurances are accepted, she said. All it takes is for the person, or a parent or teacher for a child, to refer for services, Hunt said. If someone doesn’t have transportation, OLV has a contract with a social care network and may be able to arrange for an Uber, she said.

“We support, prepare and empower the individuals that we work with,” she said. “We're not trying to come and take over, we just want to be an added resource to the providers that are currently out here.”

OLV has four brick-and-mortar offices and six satellite locations in Buffalo public schools, with plans to expand — possibly into Wyoming County next — as part of its strategic plan, she said.

Counseling services will begin on April 15. Hours for appointments will be 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays and 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays, with 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays up for consideration if there’s a need for a weekend day. Eventually, the site will have Open Access, which will be available for walk-in appointments.

For more information or to make an appointment, call 716-828-7456 or go to Outpatient Counseling Clinic.

A second practice is the Evaluation and Treatment Center for kids aged 2 to 21 with any type of intellectual, developmental or learning disability. A staff of eight includes a medical director/pediatrician, psychologist, nurse practitioner, licensed behavioral analyst, behavioral technician, and occupational and speech therapists, Clinical Services Supervisor Chris Nalbach said.

“This is our first site branch. We just opened in Lackawanna in April 2024, so we’re already looking to kind of expand since then. We got a great opportunity to utilize this space in a different region that we haven’t been able to reach before,” Nalbach said. “We talked to some people at University of Rochester and (other practices), that stated that services were needed in this area as well.”

Hospitals and medical facilities across Western New York can have waiting lists up to two years long, he said, which is time that a child could be receiving treatment. Anyone suspecting his/her child of having any type of learning/developmental disability can fill out the center’s intake form and have the child evaluated and/or tested, he said.

“We look for autism, ADHD, or other types of disorders that we can evaluate and treat, and once we have a good diagnosis completed, we can move on to the therapy from there and whatever it takes to get the kids the services they need to provide it, and if not, we can refer to other places that would be able to.”

They will recommend a course for treatment, including an intense Parent-Child Interaction Therapy. There seems to be more autism, but it’s not so much that there are more cases of autism, he said, as there are more diagnoses of it — and more quickly and correctly than in the past.

There used to be about one in 150 diagnosed 20 years ago, he said, and now it’s one out of 36, according to ETC’s website. Staff is committed to “providing another option for families to help reduce these wait times and allow children to get the help they need as soon as possible.”

When working with children, no one is usually looking for those huge leaps and bounds, he said, but instead for incremental steps.

“There’s no cure for autism; it’s an improvement in functioning, things of that nature,” he said. “We’re really not looking at the massive success rate. We’re looking at the tiny little successes. If you look at the parents, when they look at their child and see that their child can talk back and say ‘Hi mom,’ that’s a huge success.”

The Stafford location will be opening later this summer on Mondays, and possibly also on the first and third Saturdays. For more information, call 716-828-7586 or go to Evaluation and Treatment Center.

Sheilal Hunt and Heather Bell
Sheila Hunt, chief program officer, left, and Heather Bell, clinical therapist, get ready for the launch of the OLV Human Services' Genesee County location of an Outpatient Counseling Clinic to be opening April 15 in Stafford.
Photo by Joanne Beck 
Chris Nalbach
Clinical Services Supervisor Chris Nalbach checks out one of the three treatment rooms at the Evaluation and Treatment Center, to be opening this summer in Stafford.
Photo by Joanne Beck 

Free lead testing for children offered by GO Health immunization clinics

By Press Release

Press Release:

Did you know that the only way to know if a child has been poisoned is to get them tested? There are often no clear signs or symptoms of lead poisoning. This is why testing children for lead is so important. Lead is a metal that is harmful to our bodies and can cause serious health issues. 

“Children under 6 are most at risk for lead poisoning because their bodies are rapidly developing,” stated Gabrielle Lanich, Lead Program Coordinator of Genesee and Orleans County. “The health effects of lead poisoning are permanent and can affect a child into adulthood.” Childhood lead poisoning can harm the brain and nervous system leading to learning difficulties, lower IQ, organ damage, and at very high levels can be fatal.

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) will be offering free fingerprick lead testing at the following immunization clinics this year. 

Genesee County Health Department, 3837 West Main Street Road, Batavia

  • Wednesday, June 11
  • Wednesday, July 9

Orleans County, 14016 Route 31 West, Suite 101, Albion

  • Tuesday, April 15
  • Tuesday, June 17

All clinics are between the hours of 1 to 3:30 p.m. Testing is available for children ages 1-6. Children must be accompanied by parent or legal guardian. Please make an appointment by calling your local health department:

  • Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555
  • Orleans County: 585-589-3278

For more information about GO Health Programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department. Follow GO Health on Facebook, Instagram and X at GOHealthNY.

Independent Living of the Genesee Region launches drop-in hours for young adults

By Press Release
image002edit.png
Submitted photo.

Press Release:

Independent Living of the Genesee Region is now offering Drop-In hours for young adults (ages 18 to 24) every Thursday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. No registration is needed.

If you are looking for a calm place to play a game or make some art, an Independent Living Specialist will be available and ready to assist. Independent Living of the Genesee Region is located at 319 West Main St., Batavia. 

Thanks to funding from the Greater Rochester Health Foundation and in partnership with the Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs program, a conference room has been converted into a living room. This comfortable space can accommodate a group so no need to call ahead, just drop by any Thursday afternoon. 

The covid pandemic forced many young people to study at home and shy away from regular activities that would have provided opportunities to form friendships. The isolation is real for this age group with many struggling to find safe ways to connect and meet people.

Independent Living Centers are designed and funded to assist people with disabilities. One definition of a disability is any condition that limits life activities. Feelings of panic, anxiety and stress can contribute to mental health challenges and become a disability impacting daily living. It’s important to know you are not alone. 

Our Center offers a number of services that can lead to a better quality of life. We are a safe place where you can get to know people, maybe make some friends, and learn about options for your future. 

Thanks to generous support from the Greater Rochester Health Foundation, Independent Living has two full-time Youth Specialists. Contact Kahlil Simon at ksimon@wnyil.org or Emma Pratt at epratt@wnyil.org or call 585-815-8501 to learn more.

Independent Living of the Genesee Region is a member of the Western New York Independent Living, Inc. family of agencies which offers an expanding array of services to aid people with disabilities to take control of their own lives.

Tenney reintroduces PAW Act to make veterinary care and pet insurance eligible for HSA and FSA

By Press Release

Press Release:

File photo of 
Claudia Tenney.

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) reintroduced the People and Animals Well-being (PAW) Act to amend the Internal Revenue Code Section 213(d) to include veterinary care expenses under tax-advantaged health care spending accounts, specifically Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).

The PAW Act would allow pet owners to use their HSA or FSA accounts to pay for up to $1,000 for veterinary care or a pet health insurance plan while enabling an unlimited amount of these funds for service animals. In addition, this legislation will support individuals, including veterans, with disabilities by ensuring the IRS relies on an up-to-date definition of “service animal,” which includes animals trained to assist with both physical and mental disabilities. This bill maintains current HSA and FSA contribution limits, ensuring that there will be little to no impact on federal expenditures.

“Pets and service animals are valued members of our families and lives, with many benefits, including increasing our lifespan, reducing stress, and promoting physical activity. It is important we ensure pet owners can afford quality care. The PAWS Act allows pet owners to use HSAs and FSAs for veterinary care, ensuring all pet owners can keep their beloved pets and service animals healthy,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

“Pets are more than just animals – in many households, they’re family members,” said Congresswoman Ross. “While household costs continue to rise, paying for pet insurance can become a financial burden that people can’t afford. As a dog owner, I’m proud to introduce our bipartisan PAW Act, which will ensure animal lovers can afford care for their pets by including veterinary care and pet insurance as eligible expenses under HSAs and FSAs. I’m grateful for Congresswoman Tenney’s continued partnership to make sure all families can afford insurance for their furry friends.”

“The AVMA-endorsed People and Animals Well-being (PAW) Act supports both animal and human health by highlighting the benefits of pet ownership and expanding access to pet care,” said Dr. Sandra Faeh, President of the American Veterinary Medical Association. “By making veterinary care and pet health insurance eligible expenses under Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts, this legislation helps make pet care more affordable, improves access for service animals, and strengthens efforts to detect and prevent zoonotic diseases. We appreciate the leadership of Reps. Tenney and Ross on this important issue and urge Congress to pass the PAW Act without delay.”

GCC hosts 16th annual Tech Wars, celebrates innovation and skill of GLOW region students

By Press Release
glow-tech-wars-logo-2026.png
Photo of the winning logo design for the 2026 Tech Wars, courtesy of GCC.

Press Release:

Genesee Community College (GCC) proudly welcomed over 700 middle and high school technology students and their teachers from across the GLOW region to the 16th Annual Tech Wars. This competition provided a platform for students to showcase their skills and ingenuity through a variety of technology-based challenges.

Tech Wars is the culmination of a year's worth of preparation by students and educators, with each event carefully crafted and coordinated by the dedicated technology teachers of the GLOW region. The event receives significant support from GCC's Accelerated College Enrollment (ACE) Department, GCC faculty and staff, as well as many generous local businesses that sponsor the competition and actively participate in the day's activities.

This year, thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, the Tech Wars organizing committee was able to award three $300 scholarships to deserving seniors from participating GLOW region schools. Scholarship recipients demonstrated outstanding dedication to technology and plan to pursue careers, apprenticeships or post-secondary education in technology-related fields. The 2024 scholarship winners were:

  • Catherine Staley - Geneseo High School
  • Kasey Pagels - Byron Bergen High School
  • Laylanna Oliveria - Pioneer High School

Sponsors for 2025 Tech Wars:

Gold Sponsors: Amada Tool America, Barilla America NY, Graham Corporation, I.B.E.W. Local 86, Liberty Pumps, Northeast Industrial Tech, Power & Construction Group

Silver Sponsors: Chapin International, Maple Moon Farms, Morton Salt, RTMA/FLYAP, Six Flags Darien Lake, Takeform & Traco Manufacturing

Overall Winners:

Middle School Division:

1st Place: Batavia Middle School (28 points)

2nd Place: Warsaw Middle School (16 points)

3rd Place: York Middle School (15 points)

High School Division:

1st Place: Geneseo High School (27 points)

2nd Place: Dansville High School (24 points)

3rd Place: Batavia High School (23 points)

Additionally, the winning logo design for the 2026 Tech Wars was created by Giana Strollo from Batavia High School.

Participating Schools: Albion, Alexander, Attica, Batavia, Byron-Bergen, Dansville, Elba, Geneseo, Holley, Kendall, Letchworth, Medina, Mt. Morris, Oakfield-Alabama, Pavilion, Pembroke, Perry, Pioneer, St. Joe's, Warsaw, Wayland-Cohocton & York

Competitions:

Middle School Events: Bridge, Catapult, CO2 Cars (Concept & Race), Logo Design, Lumber Labyrinth, Makers Showcase, Mystery, Paper Airplanes, Rube Goldberg, Sculpture, Skimmer Cars & Technical Drawing

High School Events: Bridge, CO2 Cars (Concept & Race), Drone Racing, Logo Design, Lumber Labyrinth, Makers Showcase, Mini Sumo Bots, Mystery, Regatta Race & Theme, Reverse Engineer CAD, Robotic Tractor Pull, Sculpture, Skimmer Cars, SUMO Bots & Trebuchet

GCC extends its gratitude to all the students, teachers, sponsors, and volunteers who made this year's Tech Wars a success. We look forward to continuing this tradition of innovation and excellence in 2026!

For more information contact Vice President Development, Admissions and External Affairs Justin M. Johnston at 585-345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu

Photos: Byron-Bergen staff and teachers get bragging rights with hoops win over Sheriff's Office

By Staff Writer
byron-bergen sheriff's office basketball game

Byron-Bergen Sports Boosters hosted a basketball contest between deputies in the Sheriff's Office and Byron-Bergen faculty and staff as a fundraiser for the Justice For Children GLOW foundation in the high school gymnasium on Thursday night.

Byron-Bergen won 45-38.

The event raised $1,529 from ticket sales, 50/50 and basket raffles. The Erion family won the 50/50 and donated the proceeds back to the booster club.

The Rose Garden and Greg’ry’s Bakery made donations in support of the event.

During the breaks between quarters and at half-time, Gillam-Grant boys and girls youth basketball teams played a game.

Photos by Jennifer DiQuattro.

byron bergen sheriff's office basketball
byron bergen sheriff's office basketball
byron bergen sheriff's office basketball
byron bergen sheriff's office basketball
byron bergen sheriff's office basketball
byron bergen sheriff's office basketball
byron bergen sheriff's office basketball
byron bergen sheriff's office basketball
byron bergen sheriff's office basketball
Event Organizers, Byron-Bergen Sports Boosters, Frank Jarkiewicz, Heather Kent and Lori Brumsted.
byron bergen sheriff's office basketball
Former Byron-Bergen basketball players Brendan Pimm and Braedyn Chambry were the referees.
byron bergen sheriff's office basketball
Sherriff's Office team.
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Byron-Bergen team.

Spiritual Connections

By Press Release

Alabama-Basom Methodist Church, 1392 Lewiston Road, Alabama. Join us for worship at 10:30 a.m. on March 25. This week our sermon title is "REPENT", led by Celinda McQuistion (CLM). Scripture readings will be from 1 Corinthians 10:1-13  and Luke 13:1-9 Come join us for Worship and fellowship after the service!

Ascension Parish - Roman Catholic Church, 135 Swan St., Batavia. We are open for Mass in the Church on Sundays at noon. We hope to see you there! 

Assemblies of God-New Covenant Chapel, 6690 Oak Orchard Rd., Elba.14058. We welcome all seeking a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ through His finished work on The Cross with The Power of The Holy Spirit. John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” If you want a small, close-knit church family and a place to make a difference, please join us. Worship Service is Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Bible Study Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and Thursday at 7 p.m. Contact us at (585)-757-6651 (585)-969-1528 or visit us on Youtube.

Batavia Assembly of God, 24 North Spruce St, Batavia. Join us for coffee in our café before our Sunday morning service that begins at 10:30 a.m. We offer "Movement Kids" (age 4 - grade 5) at 10:30 a.m. and "MVMT YTH" (grades 6-12) meet on Sunday nights at 7 p.m.

Batavia First Baptist Church, 306 E. Main St., Pastor David Weidman, where "Christ the Center, Love for All" is very evident to all who enter. We invite you to our Full Gospel Sunday services at 10 a.m.; The Thrift Shoppe is open Monday-Friday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., come and browse in our beautifully renovated space. Donations are accepted during business hours. You can also enjoy a light lunch at Lydia's Kitchen while you shop. Questions? Email: firstbaptist2002@yahoo.com. Call us at (585)343-9002.

Batavia First Presbyterian Church, 300 E. Main St., Batavia, invites you to join us for in-person worship on Sundays at 9 a.m. (Arise-relaxed with band music) or 10:45 a.m. (Sanctuary -liturgical and organ) or on Livestream via Facebook Live for both times at: https://fpcbatavia.org/  or https://www.facebook.com/fpcbatavia/videos/.

Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road, Batavia. Our mission & vision statement:  “To be disciples, we must listen, learn, lead, and love our way to God.” Reverend Wayne Mort leads our worship service every Sunday morning at 10 a.m. in the church sanctuary. Childcare is offered for children birth-3 years old and Sunday school is offered for children ages 4-14 years old. You can also find the service on Facebook. We invite you to learn more about Batavia First UMC by visiting our website at www.BataviaFirstumc.com.

Byron Presbyterian Church, 6293 W. Main St., Byron. Pastor: Rev. Michael Fry. Musical Director: Laurence Tallman. Worship and Sunday School are at 9:45 a.m. Scripture Readings: Psalm 63:1-8 and Isaiah 55:1-9. Message: “Hope”. All are welcome!                                                         

Calvary Baptist Church of Le Roy, 8703 Lake Street Road, Le Roy.  If you do not already have a church that you attend regularly, we would like to invite you to give Calvary Baptist Church a try.  It would be a pleasure to have you join us for worship and fellowship on a Sunday morning or at one of our other mid-week events. As a multi-generational congregation that enjoys our time together, our Sunday worship service typically includes singing a mix of both traditional and contemporary songs and hymns, a children’s message, and a sermon from the Word of God. Our Sunday worship service begins at 10:15 a.m.

City Church, 210 E. Main St., Batavia, invites you for our Sunday morning services at 8:30 and 10 a.m. with Kids ministry at 10 a.m. and Thursday evenings at 7 p.m.  Everyone is welcome to join us for worship and a message. We believe in doing life together and would love to do life with YOU!  You can also connect with us online at www.thecitychurch.com, through our Facebook page, The City Church, or our YouTube channel.  We do life together.

Corfu United Presbyterian Church 63 Alleghany Road, Corfu. Corfu United Presbyterian Church (CUPC) welcomes all visitors to come worship with us on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. in person or via our Facebook live stream led by our pastor, the Rev. Evan Wildhack. Our mission at CUPC is to connect with Christ, connect with others, and connect others with Christ. We offer children's Sunday School at 9:15am on Sunday mornings and youth group for 7-12th graders on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month from 6-8 p.m. The church also hosts the Corfu Food Pantry which is open on the third Saturday of the month from 9 - 10 a.m. For Lent this year, we are hosting a Lenten lunch on Wednesday, March 26 at 12 p.m. During Holy Week, we will be holding a special Holy Week service at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 17. Easter worship will be at our regular worship time of 10:30am with a breakfast preceding at 9:30am. For more information about the church, feel free to contact the church office by phone at (585) 599-6414 or via email at office@corfuchurch.org. You can also visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/corfuchurch. CUPC is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) 

Cornerstone Church of East Pembroke, part of American Baptist Churches USA, 2583 Main Road, East Pembroke. Our Sunday service is at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Glenn Bloom preaching. Bible Study is every Wednesday at 10 a.m. We are a small church and welcome new members. (585) 762-8721

Darien Disciples Church, 1951 Broadway (Route 20), Our worship service begins at 9 a.m. Prayer requests to Jerry at: jeromedmorrison@yahoo.com. This week, March 23, our sermon title is “Again and again and again....” led by Rodney Stringham. (CLM). The Gospel Reading will be from Luke 13:31-35. Come join us!

Discovery Chapel, 315 West Main Street, Batavia. Pastor Ingrim Green's services are on Sundays at 10 a.m. "Let's Talk Real Talk the Gospel For Real Life." Visit our website letstalkrealtalk.org for more information.

East Bethany Presbyterian Church, 5735 Ellicott Street Road, East Bethany. Our Sunday morning worship service is held at 10:30 a.m. and is led by Rev. Dr. Shiela McCullough. Visitors are always welcome. You can find out more information on our Facebook page or by emailing us at ebpresbyterian@gmail.com.

Elba First Baptist Church, 31 S. Main St., Elba, is open for the main service in person at 10:45 a.m. on Sundays. For more information about our church go to www.fbcelba.net. The pastor is Michael Davis. Email: office@fbcelba.net / Phone (585) 757-2722

Emmanuel Baptist Church, 190 Oak St., Batavia. Join us for our Sunday service at 11am or come earlier for bible study at 9:45am.  Free coffee and fellowship!  Pastor Tom is continuing his preaching through the book of Acts.  Debbie Prosser is leading the choir in lifting up a joyful noise to the Lord every Sunday with practice on Thursdays.  We would love to hear your voice as well!  Particularly we need ladies who love to sing to join the choir!  Can't wait to meet you!

EverPresent Church, 4 Batavia City Centre, Batavia(off of Bank Street). Pastor Jason and Pastor Michelle Norton Welcome you! Our hours are Wednesdays 6 p.m. midweek service. Sundays 10:30 a.m. doors open 9:45 a.m. Children's church starts directly following worship. Children's church ages are 5 to 11. Counseling and other appointments are scheduled through the church via Office Scheduling. You can view some of our messages through Facebook or YouTube -EverPresent Church. Our phone number is 585-297-3155. Visit our Website for more information for up and upcoming events. Our beliefs, our vision and mission. www.everpresentchurch.com

Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St., Batavia. We offer two Sunday Morning Worship Services. Both services are live-streamed on our Facebook page, Grace Baptist or view it on the web at: www.gracebatavia.org. The first service is at 8:45 a.m. (children's classes available for Nursery - 1st grade). The second service is at 10:30 a.m. (children's classes available Nursery - 5th grade). KidZone for ages 4-5th grade and Grace Student Ministries (Grades 6-12) meet on Sunday Evenings at 6 - 7:30 p.m. 

Indian Falls Methodist Church, 7908 Alleghany Road, Corfu. We have our worship service at 10 a.m. on Sunday mornings, led by Rev. Karen L. McCaffery.  This week's message is "God's Love", led by CLM, Eric Phelps. To view our services online please go to our website https://indianfallsgmc.com/ for a link for Live Streaming.  Our Youth Group (grades 6-12) meets on the 1st & 3rd Sundays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We offer a FREE Community Dinner on Thursday, March 27 at 6 p.m. Join us for Maple Weekends March 22, 23, 29, & 30 from 9am-3pm at Hofheins Maple Moon Farms at 1058 Gulf Road, Attica. 

Morganville United Church of Christ, 8466 Morganville Rd, Stafford. You are invited to join with us as we continue our Lenten journey this Sunday at 10 a.m. as Reverend James Morasco shares his sermon “Time For a Spiritual Checkup.” Our “God is still speaking” church. Friend us on Facebook! Or better yet, visit us Sunday.

North Darien Bible Church, 9768 Simonds Road, Corfu. We are open! Sunday worship service begins at 10 a.m. Children's Church classes are available for children ages birth through sixth grade, including a classroom for children with special needs. For more information, visit our website. You can also watch LIVE on our Facebook or YouTube channel. Join us from 9 a.m. to noon on the first Saturday of every month for our free community closet, full of clothing, coats, and shoes for all. (585) 547-9646.

Northgate Free Methodist Church, 8160 Bank Street Road (North Campus), Batavia. The Gospel of Mark is fast-paced, action-packed, and full of life-changing encounters with Jesus. In this series, reMARKable, we’ll dive deep into the power, purpose, and urgency of the ministry of Jesus — discovering how His message still transforms lives today. If you’ve ever wondered what it truly means to follow Jesus, Mark’s gospel will challenge and inspire you.

Oakfield-Alabama Baptist Church, 2210 Judge Road., Oakfield. Join us for Sunday School for all ages at 9:45 a.m., followed by our worship service at 11 a.m. every Sunday! Visit our website (www.oabchurch.com) for additional information about our church, our beliefs, upcoming activities, and past messages. Men’s and Ladies’ Bible studies also meet on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. on the church grounds. We look forward to worshiping and fellowshipping with you! Questions? Email Pastor Matt Ervin at mervin@tyndale.edu.

Oakfield Community Bible Church, 82 North Main St. Oakfield. This Weeks “Oakfield Community Bible Church”, Weekend Worship Service is at 10:30 a.m.  With Praise & Worship Music by Keith Burroughs. The morning message by Pastor, Timothy Young; entitled: “Who Is Greatest”.  Scripture: “Matthew 18:1-5” (NKJV). Our Adult Sunday School is at 9:30 a.m., along with “Sunday School through Age-16”.  There will be a Time of “Fellowship” following our Worship Service! Saturday March 22 at 3:00 p.m., there will be a free Corned Beef/Ham & Cabbage Dinner with a time of praise & worship following at 4:30 p.m. Come out and Join Us. ALL ARE WELCOME!

Our Lady of Mercy (44 Lake St. LeRoy) & St. Brigid (18 Gibson St. Bergen) parishes; Parish Office - 44 Lake Street, Le Roy. Our Lady of Mercy Mass times: Daily Mass, Monday -Friday at 7:30am, Saturday 9:00am. Weekend Masses: Saturday Vigil Mass 4:30pm, Sunday, 7:30am, 9:30am and 5:30pm. St. Brigid Mass times- Daily Mass Thursday at 8:30am & Saturday Vigil, 5:00pm. View on YouTube and Facebook. Please visit the parish website (https://www.ourladyofmercyleroy.org/).

Resurrection Parish (St. Joseph church in Batavia). St. Joseph's Church masses are on Saturdays at 4 p.m. and Sundays at 7:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Daily Mass, Monday - Friday at 8 a.m. Confessions are held at St. Joe's on Saturdays from 3 - 3:30 p.m. Vigil & Holy Days to be announced. Holy Name of Mary Site (East Pembroke) 8656 Church St., East Pembroke. Mass on Sundays 11 a.m. and Tuesdays at 8:30 a.m. St. Cecilia Site (Oakfield) 56 Maple Ave., Oakfield Mass is celebrated on Sundays at 9 a.m. and Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

St. James Episcopal Church, 405 E. Main St., Batavia. Join us on Sundays at 9 a.m. on zoom, 10 a.m. in the church building, and on Facebook Live. Links and the bulletin can be found on our website: https://www.sjecbataviany.org/

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 1 E. Main St., Le Roy, is open for in-person services at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays. Communion will be offered to people in their seats and will only include bread. We welcome you to join us -- either in person or online. For more information, visit our website.

St Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6188 Main Road, Stafford. In-person service, including Holy Communion, is at 9 a.m. Sunday mornings. All  Are Welcome. 

St. Paul Lutheran Church, Batavia, 31 Washington Ave, Batavia. This coming Sunday (March 23) we will celebrate The Third Sunday in Lent. The Sermon Theme: The call of the day is to repent and live the righteous life that flows from repentance and faith under the power of the Holy Spirit. “Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish” (Luke 13:3, 5). Our Sunday service begins at 10:15 am or can be viewed 'live' on Facebook. Join us for our Lenten Services on Wednesday's at 6:30 pm through April 9. Our Adult Bible Study and Children's Sunday School is every Sunday, 9-9:45 am. Communion is part of every Sunday service. Our Youth Group meets every Sunday, 5-7 pm. Our Men's Bible Study is on pause for the Lenten season and will resume April 30. Our Quilters group meets Tuesday's, 9-11 am.

The Church In Alexander, 10540 Main St., Alexander. Join us for Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. weekly. For more information please visit our website at www.thechurchinalexander.com. We offer a Free Food Pantry for people in our community, please call ahead if you need items from our pantry. For more information on Programs and services please contact us at (585)591-1765 or by email at thechurchinalexander@gmail.com. Church office hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:15 - 11:15 a.m.

Trinity United Methodist Church, 75 Main St. in Attica, worships together at 10:45 a.m. on Sundays. All are welcome! Contact Frank White at uncleferter@msn.com for a ZOOM link or for prayer requests.

West Middlebury Baptist Church, 4950 West Middlebury Rd. East Bethany, Sunday service is at 9 a.m. Kids Club meets on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Youth Group (grades 7-12) meets on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. For more information visit us online at westmiddlebury.org.

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"Spiritual Connections" -- The Batavian will post updates to connect people with their places of worship, religious services, fellowship opportunities, and/or spiritual advisors, etc. There is no charge for this service.

If you have information to announce, please email: news@thebatavian.com

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