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OAE tops York/Pavilion 41-14

By Staff Writer
oae football

Oakfield-Alabama/Elba beat York Pavilion on Saturday in football 41-14.

OAE stats:

  • Senior RB/LB Jack Cianfrini - 13 Carries, 221 Yards, 2 Rushing TDs, 3 Receptions, 24 Yards, 1 Receiving TD,  5 Tackles and 1 INT on Defense
  • Senior RB/LB Avery Watterson - 54 Rushing Yards, 1 Rushing TD,  Team-High 8 Total Tackles
  • Sophomore QB Brayden Jackimowicz - 10/18 Passing,  119 Passing Yards, 3 TDs
  • Junior RB/WR Hunter Tobolski - 25-Yard TD Reception
  • Junior WR/LB Mark Caparco - 25-Yard TD Reception, 1 INT on Defense
  • Junior TE/DL Nick Scott - 30 Receiving Yards, 5 Tackles, 1 TFL

"A complete team effort in today's win," said Coach Tyler Winter. "From a competitive standpoint, it's nice to pick up a big win like this while knowing we still have not played our best ball yet this season.  We have a quick turnaround to the next challenge, but we are excited to get back to the grind."

Photos by Debra Reilly

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Batavia wins a windy battle over Eastridge 7-0 on homecoming night

By Staff Writer
Quarterback Bronx Bucholtz on the move to gain yards in a running game because of high winds last evening at VanDetta stadium.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Quarterback Bronx Bucholtz on the move to gain yards in a running game because of high winds last evening at VanDetta stadium.  Photo by Steve Ognibene

Strong wind gusts on Batavia's homecoming night at Van Detta Stadium played havoc with offensive schemes leading to a scoreless first half and only one touchdown over the full four quarters.

The Blue Devils beat the Eastridge Lancers 7-0.

Bronx Buchholz was 9-17 passing for 60 yards and one TD.  He was intercepted twice. He gained 61 yards on 17 carries.

Maggio Buchholz had five receptions for 23 yards and a TD.

Brock Bigsby led the defense with nine tackles.

Also on Friday, 

  • Le Roy/Cal-Mum beat Haverling 35-20
  • Pembroke beat Frewsburg 52-22
  • Alexander beat Canisteo Greenwood 15-0

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

Gymnastics: Genesee beats Corning in meet

By Press Release
genesee gymanstics
Submitted photo

Press release:

Team Results: 1. Genesee: 114.7, 2. Corning: 104.65

All Around: 1. Roan Finn (Genesee): 32.275, 3. Sophia Matthews (Genesee): 27.0

Vault: 1. Roan Finn (Genesee): 7.85, 3. Mikayla Yohon (Genesee): 7.6, 4. Edison Betances & Sophia Matthews (Genesee): 7.45, 7. Carsyn Good (Genesee): 7.1, 9. Taryn Wright (Genesee): 6.85

Uneven Bars: 1. Ella Lamberson (Corning): 7.85, 2. Roan Finn (Genesee): 7.05, 3. Sophia Matthews (Genesee): 6.25, 4. Edison Betances (Genesee): 6.15, 5. Emma Cooper (Genesee): 6.05, 6. Carsyn Good (Genesee): 5.95, 8. Ava Pellegrino (Genesee): 5.1

Balance Beam: 1. Roan Finn (Genesee): 8.8, 3. Mikayla Yohon (Genesee): 7.2, 6. Emma Cooper (Genesee): 6.725, 7. Nee'Kay Smith (Genesee): 6.5, 8. Sophia Matthews (Genesee): 6.05, 10. Chloe Garner (Genesee): 5.55

Floor Exercise: 1. Roan Finn (Genesee): 8.575, 4. Sophia Matthews (Genesee): 7.25, 5. Mikayla Yohon (Genesee): 7.05, 6. Lei St.Clair (Genesee): 6.75, 7. Carsyn Good (Genesee): 6.7, 13. Emma Cooper (Genesee): 6.25

The next meet is: Friday, Oct. 18 at MCA Gymnastics Club at 6:30 p.m. It is Senior Night, honoring: Kendall Chase, Roan Finn, Lei St.Clair & Mikayla Yohon

 

Basket raffle and concert to support Maryland, a Haven for Horses Saturday evening

By Joanne Beck
Rene Holstien with Maryland
Rene Holstien shows some of the reasons for Saturday's fundraiser at Tracy B's in Le Roy. It runs from 5 to 9 p.m. at 8041 E. Main Road.
Photo by Howard Owens

The first-ever Basket Raffle and concert is scheduled from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday (today) at Tracy B's to help support Maryland, a Haven for Horses, a nonprofit based in Le Roy. 

The OHMS band will perform, and food will be available. Plenty of beer will be on tap, the greenhouse will be filled with basket raffles and there will be a 50/50. All of the proceeds will go to the horses at MaryLand to help them get hay and supplies to get them through the winter months.

Genesee County to host drug take-back day on October 26

By Press Release

Press Release:

On Saturday, October 26 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., law enforcement agencies across Genesee County and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will provide the public the opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.

There will be three locations across the county where citizens can dispose of their medications. Sharps will only be accepted at the Batavia location which moved from the Alva lot this year. The service is free and anonymous, and no questions are asked. 

The Batavia Police Department, in conjunction with United Memorial Medical Center, will be accepting prescription drugs and sharps at the Batavia Police Department, located at 10 W. Main Street, Batavia.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office will accept prescription drugs ONLY at the Pembroke Town Hall, 1145 Main Rd. Corfu. 

The LeRoy Police Department will accept prescription drugs ONLY at their headquarters, 3 West Main Street, Le Roy. 

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs.  

In addition to DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, there are many other ways to dispose of unwanted prescription drugs every day, including the 11,000 authorized collectors that are available all year long. 

The Batavia Police Department Headquarters has one for everyday collection of drugs located in the lobby at 10 West Main St., Batavia. 

Containers are also located at the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office on Park Road, Batavia, and the Le Roy Police Department. 

Sharps are accepted at United Memorial Medical Center, 127 North Street, Batavia. 

The FDA also provides information on how to dispose of prescription drugs properly. More information is available here: www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/where-and-how-dispose-unused-medicines For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or the April 27 Take Back Day event, go to www.DEATakeBack.com.

Zombie Run 5K to benefit Volunteers For Animals, bring early Halloween fun

By Joanne Beck
Zombie Run 5K
The Zombie Run Race for the Animals 5K is Oct. 18 at Whole Life Fitness in Batavia.

Get your costumes and your gumption ready for some scary fun during the first-ever Zombie Run Race for the Animals 5K at Whole Life Fitness in Batavia, owner Jessica Pratt and fellow organizer Amanda Curtis say.

Whether you’re a marathon runner or just love a good Halloween activity while helping out a good cause, this event promises a little something for everyone, from children to adults, they said this week. It’s set for 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 18 at the Whole Life Fitness facility, 624 E. Main St., Batavia.

“So we’re getting everybody there at five o’clock to have some kids' stuff — we’re doing face painting for them, we’ve got grab bags, we’re doing some tattoos, and we have cider and doughnuts for after,” Pratt said. “The Volunteers For Animals will have a table that they’re setting up, and we’ll also have a raffle, some door prizes and a 50/50.” 

The race is a benefit for Volunteers For Animals, a nonprofit based in Batavia and working out of Genesee County Animal Shelter. Pratt has been a longtime member and, in addition to having four dogs, has fostered mama cats and at least 40 kittens for the organization, she said. 

So putting on an event to help support them was a “no brainer,” Curtis said, emphasizing “pun intended” for the zombie-themed run. 

“The Zombie 5K is a family-friendly event that provides a fitness opportunity with spooky fun.  We are encouraging participants to dress up as zombies or in costume, and to keep everyone on their toes, we will have zombies hiding along the route,” Curtis said.  “We have even invited the homeowners along the route to participate in the fun while also giving them a heads up that the zombie hoard is just for fun--not the apocalypse.” 

The Zombie 5k will begin and end at Whole Life Fitness, taking participants along the Dewitt Recreation Area and meandering through Elmwood and St. Joseph Cemeteries, so who knows what they may encounter. Pratt and Curtis were keeping mum about those details.

“We are so excited about this event. We have a costume contest for the kids and adults with prizes for the best costume.  Runners who win in their categories will receive medals or ribbons,” Curtis said. “For all participants and volunteers, we will provide apple cider doughnuts and apple cider.”

VFA member Angela Knisley also organized the group's fundraising events and said members would be present with information about the cats and dogs available for adoption and about the organization and its various programs. 

“We really appreciate this fundraiser being held for us and are looking forward to a fun time,” Knisley said. “We are supplying three door prize baskets that will be raffled: one dog-themed, one cat-themed and a generic one.”

Pratt is a woman entrepreneur who has been busy running multiple businesses and unable to spend as much time volunteering for the animal nonprofit, so “promoting and supporting VFA through a fun event with a wide reach is the next best thing,” Curtis said.  

“We are also hosting a food drive at Whole Life Fitness for VFA, providing another opportunity for those who want to give but are unable to attend the Zombie 5K,” she said. “At the moment, we haven't decided if this will be an annual event. We are considering this a pilot year; if it succeeds, we will do it again next year.”

The registration fee is $22 per adult without a T-shirt and $12 per teen without a T-shirt. The deadline to receive a guaranteed T-shirt has passed. Each ticket includes entry into the race, a chance to win awesome prizes, and access to all event activities and food. Extra T-shirts will be for sale at the event. The fundraising goal is $5,000.

To register, go HERE

This year's Election Day has drawn attention and needed workers

By Joanne Beck
Tyler Caldwell I Voted Sticker Contest
2024 File Photo of artwork created by Tyler Caldwell of Alexander for the I Voted Sticker Contest.
Submitted Photo

With nine days of early voting in Genesee County, rounding up enough workers for those full shifts, plus Election Day, might seem a daunting task. 

Not when candidates are running for president, Democratic Election Commissioner Lorie Longhany says. Those elections have the highest turnouts of any of them.

"People like to work presidential elections, really, they do. They like to see everyone as they come in,” Longhany said Thursday. “So far so good, and I’m knocking on wood. We’re training next week.”

There are approximately 60 new election workers for this year’s big event, she said, with candidates Donald Trump and J.D. Vance on the Republican and Conservative tickets and Kamala Harris and Tim Walz on the Democratic and Working Families lines vying for president of the United States. 

Pay for those workers in Genesee County is pretty good compared to some other counties, she said. For example, on Election Day, coordinators receive $290 and inspectors get $215. For early voting days, coordinators will receive $157.50 and inspectors will get $121.50, she said. 

Other races include David Wagenhauser, on the Democratic ticket, who has made it known locally that he is challenging incumbent Claudia Tenney, Republican/Conservative, for the 24th District Congressional seat. 

Joseph Graff is running unopposed for Genesee County sheriff.

For sample ballots, go HERE

There is also a statewide proposal to amend Section 11 of Article 1 of the Constitution regarding equal protection: 

“§ 11. a. No person shall be denied the equal protection of the laws of this state or any subdivision thereof. No person shall, because of race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, creed [or], religion, or sex, including sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes, and reproductive healthcare and autonomybe subjected to any discrimination in [his or her] their civil rights by any other person or by any firm, corporation, or institution, or by the state or any agency or subdivision of the state, pursuant to law.

b. Nothing in this section shall invalidate or prevent the adoption of any law, regulation, program, or practice that is designed to prevent or dismantle discrimination on the basis of a characteristic listed in this section, nor shall any characteristic listed in this section be interpreted to interfere with, limit, or deny the civil rights of any person based upon any other characteristic identified in this section.

Explanation – Matter in bold is new; matter in brackets [ ] is old law to be omitted.

For more about the proposal, go to Prop 1

The Genesee County Board of Elections has announced its Early Voting schedule and important deadlines for the upcoming General Election, as noted below. Early Voting will be available for nine days from Oct. 26 through Nov. 3 at the ARC Community Center at 38 Woodrow Road, Batavia.

The schedule is as follows:

• Saturday, Oct. 26: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Sunday, Oct. 27: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Monday, Oct. 28: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Tuesday, Oct. 29: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

• Wednesday, Oct. 30: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

• Thursday, Oct. 31: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

• Friday, Nov. 1: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

• Saturday, Nov. 2: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

• Sunday, Nov. 3: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

All polling sites will be open on Election Day, November 5, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. All sites are accessible. Voters can check their poll site by visiting the New York State Voter Lookup or by calling the Genesee County Board of Elections at (585) 815-7804.

Absentee Ballot Information: 

To request an absentee ballot, contact the Board of Elections or use the NY State Absentee Ballot Portal. Key absentee ballot deadlines are as follows:

• October 26: Last day for the Board of Elections to receive an absentee ballot application.

• November 4: Last day to apply in person for an absentee ballot.

• November 5: Last day to postmark a ballot (must be received by November 12).

• November 5: Absentee ballots must be received at the poll site or Board of Elections no later than 9 p.m.

• November 18: Military/Special Federal absentee ballots must be received by this date.

Voter Registration Deadlines:

• October 26: Last day to submit a voter registration application to be eligible to vote in the General Election.

In-Person Registration: 

Voters may register at the Genesee County Board of Elections or any participating state agency under the National Voter Registration Act on any business day. To be eligible for the General Election, the application must be received no later than October 26, 2024.

Change of Address Deadline:

• October 21: Changes of address must be submitted by this date.

Poll Site Change: Please note that the Bergen poll site has been moved from the Bergen Town Courtroom to the Gillam Grant Community Center, located at 6966 W. Bergen Road, Bergen.

For any questions, requests for registration forms, or absentee ballot applications, contact the Genesee County Board of Elections at 585-815-7804 or visit the website at Genesee County Board of Elections.

Independent Living hosts 'Meet the Candidates' session October 22

By Press Release

Press Release:

Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR) is holding a FREE “MEET THE CANDIDATES” DAY.  In order to make an informed decision, voters need to learn more about those running. So, whatever your political views, this is YOUR year to get involved!

The event is to take place on Tuesday October 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., in ILGR’s Conference Room at 319 West Main Street in the Crickler Executive Business Center, Batavia. As seating is limited, people can also attend over the Zoom Meeting platform online. 

To get the Zoom link, or more information about the event, RSVP with Cathy DeMare at 585-815-8501, extension 400. It will be also accessible via a live stream on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ILGR14020 and WNYIL’s YouTube channel, www.youtube.com/user/WNYIL.

Candidates invited to participate appearing on the November ballot include those running for U.S. President and Vice President; U. S. Senator; State Supreme Court Justice, State Senate, District 57; State Assembly, District 139; Congressional Representative in District 24; Genesee County Sheriff, Treasurer, Coroner; local offices in a couple dozen towns.

If an attendee wishes to be familiar with the “hot” disability issues, sheets of suggested questions will be provided; but participants are encouraged to ask about public concerns that are close to them. The building is fully disability accessible.

The Western New York Independent Living, Inc. family of agencies offer an expanding array of services to aid individuals with disabilities to take control of their own lives.

Tenney receives Friend of the Family Award for ‘dedication to conservative values’

By Press Release

Press Release:

File photo of 
Claudia Tenney.

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) was recently honored with the Friend of the Family Award by the Faith & Freedom Coalition, recognizing her dedication to upholding conservative values, protecting American families, and defending religious liberty and individual freedom through her legislative efforts during the 118th Congress.

Tenney has championed numerous bills, including the Parents Bill of Rights Act, which ensures parents have the right to know what their children are being taught and what is happening in our nation’s schools. She also supported the Protecting Women and Girls in Sports Act, aimed at preserving fairness by preventing biological men from competing in women’s sports, further advocating for conservative principles and traditional values.

"The woke left continues its assault on conservative values, religious liberty, and the sanctity of life. It is essential to stand behind legislation that defends these priorities. I am deeply honored to receive the Friend of the Family Award, which highlights my commitment to safeguarding freedom, religious liberties, and supporting Israel. I am grateful to the Faith & Freedom Coalition for this recognition and remain dedicated to fighting for the values NY-24 holds dear in Congress," said Congresswoman Tenney.

'Grateful for Recovery' art show set for November

By Press Release
peter-langen-art-2.jpg
This work from Batavian Peter Langen is representative of the artistic expression that empowers people to be successful in their recovery journey. Richmond Memorial Library will be hosting the Grateful for Recovery art show throughout the month of November.
Submitted photo.

Press release:

Understanding that creative expression serves as a therapeutic means toward healing and self-esteem, the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Genesee County and UConnectCare are partnering to sponsor the Grateful for Recovery art show throughout November.

“The mission of this art show at Richmond Memorial Library is to let the community know that people do recover from substance use disorder, mental health and other issues while giving them the opportunity to share their experiences and break down the stigma surrounding recovery,” said Sue Gagne, Suicide Prevention Coalition coordinator.

This local initiative follows on the footsteps of the national Art of Recovery project started earlier this year by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Gagne said all submissions will be displayed in the Gallery Room at the library from Nov. 1-30. Artists are requested to drop off their work by October 28 at The Recovery Station, 5256 Clinton St. Rd., Batavia. Participants may submit up to three pieces of art for this show.

“We’re accepting work in various genres – original drawings, paintings, photographs, mixed media, poetry and more,” Gagne noted, adding that family members of those in recovery are welcome to submit as well as those under 18 years old, with parental permission.

“Additionally, we’re asking that each artist submit a short bio or a paragraph about his or her journey in recovery,” she said.

Artists are able to sell their work through this show, Gagne added. Each piece does not have to be framed but all pieced need to have a proper hanging system or hardware to be placed in the Gallery Room.

For more information about the show and/or to receive entry and consent forms, contact Gagne at sgagne@uconnectcare.org or at 585-813-6448.

Borrello and Republican colleagues request delay to implementation of Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) Regulations

By Press Release

Press Release:

File photo of 
George Borrello.

Senator George Borrello and members of the New York State Senate Republican Conference penned a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul to raise concerns regarding the adoption and impending implementation of the Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) regulations by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). 

“The ACT regulations are the latest example of a mandate that was implemented without properly considering the impacts on small businesses, in addition to the lack of adequate infrastructure to meet the intended goals. We have heard from many concerned businesses, and are calling on Governor Hochul to delay the implementation and form a Task Force to hear from stakeholders on a more responsible, practical solution that will work for everyone,” stated Senate Republican Leader Rob Ortt.

The plan, first adopted in 2021 is set to take effect in 2025, would be yet another burdensome mandate on businesses in New York that would contribute to, and further dismantle, the state’s already poor business climate.  

“The Senate Republican Conference has been consistent in our support of reasonable and common sense efforts to move our state towards a cleaner energy future, but only if those efforts also protect our economy and our residents.  The effective date of ACT fails to do so and is another example of New York State putting the cart before the horse.  Just like the illogical effort to ban natural gas and fuel choice, ACT is being implemented too fast and we must come up with a realistic plan that moves our state towards a cleaner future without harming all current New Yorkers,” said Senator Mario Mattera, ranking member of Senate Energy and Telecommunication Committee.

“New York State has gotten way ahead of itself with many of its Climate Act mandates and the Advanced Clean Truck regulations are a prime example. Although the requirements are slated to take effect in 2025, the technology and infrastructure are still new and extremely costly. Business owners and transportation companies in my district are extremely concerned about their ability to comply with this premature mandate. I am concerned that this may drive many of them across the state border to Pennsylvania. With every new burden we put on businesses, we are making New York State less competitive.  The reasons for the state to hit 'pause' on the ACT implementation and other climate mandates keep piling up,” stated Senator George Borrello, member of the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee. 

“As we move towards a clean energy future, legitimate concerns have been raised that New York State is implementing parts of the CLCPA and its climate goals haphazardly. A case in point is the implementation of the ACT regulation, which will have major impacts on numerous communities, businesses and industries in the state and another illustration of why I did not support the CLCPA. My legislation will pause the implementation of this regulation so that we can ensure that those most affected by it are prepared and that the full impact of this directive is known,” said Senator Griffo, a member of the Senate Transportation Committee. 

Zero emission truck technology is still in its infancy, and the majority of these trucks currently cost three to four times the average of a diesel-powered vehicle. These increased costs will be passed on to taxpayers and consumers throughout the state. In addition, the charging infrastructure needed to power this fleet is not currently available at this time.

The letter points to legislation (S.9910, sponsored by Senator Griffo) that would delay the implementation of ACT regulations, and also requests that a Task Force be formed to conduct a cost-benefit analysis and formulate a more responsible plan, in consultation with the industry, that will both reduce emissions and limit dramatic cost increases for businesses. 

“Clean air is a vital resource that our conference has long fought for and believes in protecting. However, like with all facets of governance, we must be prudent about how we achieve those goals. While this regulation is admirable in its intentions, the practical matter is that New York is not currently in a position to adopt it in a manner which is feasible and affordable,” the letter reads. 

Volunteers needed for fall cleanup at MacArthur Park for Batavia youth baseball on Sunday

By Press Release

Press Release:

Volunteers Needed! Come on down to the ballpark this Sunday, October 13 from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., and help the Batavia Youth Baseball Board with some fall cleanup. We will be organizing and cleaning to get ready for winter hibernation before we're back in swing (pun intended) next season!

Check out the Tent Sale from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. for any baseball apparel, gear, and accessories that are being cleared out from inventory.

Any volunteers interested in helping can show up at MacArthur Park on Denio Street, Batavia, this coming Sunday, October 13, from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

GC Sheriff’s Office celebrates graduation of 4 new deputies from law enforcement academy

By Press Release
gcso-deputy-graduation.JPG
Photo of (from left to right): Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr., Deputies Leah L. Bezon, Soren M. Calderon, Nicholas S. Jennings, Matthew J. Wesolowski, and Undersheriff Bradley D. Mazur.
Submitted photo.

Press Release:

Genesee County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Nicholas S. Jennings, Soren M. Calderón, Matthew J. Wesolowski, and Leah L. Bezon recently graduated from the 82nd Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy at Niagara County Community College.

Deputy Nicholas S. Jennings is a 2011 graduate of Attica Central School. He received an Associate Degree from Genesee Community College in 2013 and graduated from the 27th Rural Police Training Academy in 2016. Deputy Jennings was previously employed as a Correction Officer with the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS).

Deputy Soren M. Calderón is a 2019 graduate of Pembroke Central School. He attended Hilbert College and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice in 2023. 

Deputy Matthew J. Wesolowski received the Det. Lt. Kristina Zell Physical Fitness Award in his basic academy class. He is a 2007 graduate of Iroquois Central School, received an Associate Degree from Erie Community College in 2009, and a Bachelor of Science Degree from Buffalo State College in 2013. Deputy Wesolowski served in the United States Navy for eight years as an Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) specialist and is proficient in firearms training, sky diving, and underwater diving.

Deputy Leah L. Bezon is a 2021 graduate of Elba Central School and in 2023, received an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice from Genesee Community College.

Catholic Charities joins the national Catholic Mental Health Campaign October 10-18

By Press Release

Press Release:

Catholic Charities of Buffalo is joining with other Catholic organizations in observing World Mental Health Day on October 10 and the National Catholic Mental Health Campaign, October 10 – 18. As a faith-based organization, Catholic Charities is working with parishes and other local diocesan organizations to promote this upcoming campaign through prayer and education about mental health services available in Western New York.

“Mental health issues know no socio-economic barriers and providing needed access to counseling services for the poor and marginalized is essential to giving these individuals hope for a happier and healthier life,” said Shabrin Haque, MD, medical director, Catholic Charities Behavioral Health. “Catholic Charities operates from the basic belief that everyone who needs help should receive help.”

Each year, more than 8,000 Western New Yorkers of all faiths, ages, and backgrounds rely on the counseling and behavioral health services at Catholic Charities to deal with acute and chronic mental health challenges. Services are available to help with day-to-day troubles and serious concerns for families, adults and seniors throughout all eight counties of Western New York. Catholic Charities also offers children’s clinics in Niagara Falls and Lockport that serves children ages 3-21 who present an emotional disorder, and who are appropriate for outpatient care.

The focus of the National Catholic Mental Health Campaign is three-fold, to raise awareness of the mental health crisis, combat stigma surrounding the topic of mental health, and advocate for all those impacted by mental health. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a mental illness.

If you or a loved one needs mental health services, please contact your local Catholic Charities office in the surrounding Western New York counties. 

Rochester City Ballet to present captivating new works at GCC Saturday

By Press Release
0002erichcamping-100s6374.jpg
Submitted photo.

Press Release:

Rochester City Ballet (RCB), along with students from Genesee Community College (GCC), are proud to present "So On, and So Forth” and ‘Anthology of Fantastic Zoology: A New Work of Dance & Puppet Theater” at GCC on Saturday, October 12.

Choreographed by co-artistic director of RCB, Megan Kamler, “So On, and So Forth," embarks on a compelling exploration of universal themes including connection, isolation, unison, and support. 

Drawing from personal experiences and observations, Kamler weaves a poignant narrative that delves into the unique challenges encountered by women in the arts, while celebrating the inherent strength and resilience of all women.

Said Kamler, “When audience members experience this piece, I want them to feel that it’s okay to follow the footsteps paved by the strong women who laid them, but also not be afraid to create your own path and celebrate the things that make you unique.”

Professional choreographer and GCC alumni Joshua Lang is pleased to bring his newest performance to the stage: ‘Anthology of Fantastic Zoology: A New Work of Dance & Puppet Theater. 

Lang is currently working with GCC theatre students on a unique blend of ballet and puppetry. "Anthology of Fantastic Zoology” will explore the medium of storytelling through physical movement and creative puppetry.

After providing master classes at GCC, RCB was pleased to invite the students to participate in these performances, which are poised to captivate audiences of all ages.

The performances will take place on October 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Stuart Steiner Theatre at Genesee Community College, One College Road, Batavia. Admission is free with first-come, first-served seating.

City of Batavia financial clerk receives NYS distinguished service award

By Press Release
nysacvc-distinguished-service-award-2024.JPG
Submitted photo.

Press Release:

The Distinguished Service Award is presented to an individual who has put forth extraordinary effort to assist the New York State Association of City and Village Clerks, promote the goals of the Association, and provide support and help to Clerks and those similar positions across New York State. 

Daniel Borchert has earned the coveted Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) designation and the Registered Municipal Clerks (RMC) designation, as well as served on the Executive Committee of the NYSACVC from 2006 until 2012. Mr. Borchert served as NYSACVC President from 2010-2012 and has been the NYSACVC Treasurer from 2018-2024. 

Dan has always gone above and beyond to provide support and help to our members, assisting the Association in any way possible, usually without being asked. Over the years Dan has served steadfastly with knowledge, integrity and dedication.

NYSACVC is honored to award the 2024 Distinguished Service Award to City Financial Clerk Daniel Borchert of the City of Batavia.

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Town Court Clerk Below are two lists: one details the myriad responsibilities that fall within the purview of the court clerk; the other summarizes the knowledge and abilities that court clerks possess or acquire through training. These lists are provided so that a judge and municipality can intelligently discuss the benefits that a court clerk can provide. The items below can also form the basis for a list of job duties should a municipality need to fill a vacancy in a court clerk position. Primary Responsibilities A. Maintain confidentiality of records and information when required to do so B. Prepare court calendar C. Collect monies, reconcile daily receipts, deposit receipts, prepare reports for monthly disbursements, reconcile bank accounts, and prepare administrative reports D. Enter convictions on drivers' licenses and prepare conviction reports electronically transmitted to the Department of Motor Vehicles E. Enter criminal conviction on NCIC reports and electronically send same to Division of Criminal Justice Services F. Respond to inquiries-in person, by phone, by e-mail and by mail-and provide assistance to lawyers, litigants, media, and members of the public G. Prepare monthly reports that are electronically sent to the Office of the State Comptroller H. Prepare orders, summonses, warrants and other court forms i. Communicate with outside agencies in order to coordinate the Court's activities and provide services to litigants. Such agencies include: ii. Law enforcement agencies, such as local police departments, New York State Police, Sheriffs office, FBI and CIA, US Armed Forces, and the Office of the District Attorney; I. Other courts, including superior courts and other local town and village courts; and i. Miscellaneous county agencies, such as Community Service, Community Dispute Resolution Center, Pre-trial Release, Probation, Stop DWI program, Victim Impact Panel, and Youth Court. ii. State agencies that require periodic reporting, including the New York State Unified Court System, the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Office of the State Comptroller, the Division of Criminal Justice Services, and the Office of Court Record Retention. J. Examine court documents to ensure their accuracy and completeness K. Receive and file summonses, traffic tickets and other documents for court proceedings i. Assist the Justice at the bench during all Court proceedings Knowledge of: 1. The functions and organization of the Unified Court System ii. Basic legal terminology, codes and abbreviations iii. Court forms, practices and procedures, including those set forth in the Uniform Justice Court Act and the Uniform Civil Rules for the Justice Courts (22 NYCRR Part 214) 2. Ability to: i. Prepare judicial orders and decisions ii. Effectively communicate information orally and in writing iii. File and retrieve materials, extract data from various sources for entry onto court form iv. Research and interpret laws outlined in court documents and litigants' motions and other papers v. Perform mathematical tasks in order to compile court activity reports, total receipts, accept payments, and verify bills vi. Refer to appropriate documents, statutes, citations or other sources in order to respond to specific questions from attorneys, litigants and members of the general public vii. Interpret policies, statutes, rules and regulations and apply them in specific contexts viii. Establish work priorities ix. Constructively manage conflict with court users Qualifications: Highschool diploma recognized by the NYS Dept of Education or appropriate equivalent. Along with 4 years of college, specialization in criminal justice, law, business administration or related field. -OR- 2 years college with specialization in Business Administration or related field. Please email your resume to abrownell@townofbatavia.com no later than 12/16/2024. Pay is based on experience.
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