Press Release:

Genesee County law enforcement agencies will be participating in a coordinated effort with the STOP-DWI program to bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving.

The statewide STOP-DWI efforts began Thursday, March 13 and will continue thru Tuesday, March 18. The weekend of St. Patrick’s Day is a notoriously deadly period for impaired driving due to the number of celebrations and drivers on the road. 

New York State Police, County Sheriffs and municipal law enforcement agencies, including the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Batavia Police Department and Le Roy Police Department, will be out in force during this time to reduce the number of alcohol related injuries and deaths.

While efforts across New York have made great strides in reducing the numbers of alcohol and drug related fatalities, still too many lives are being lost because of crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers. Have a plan to get home safe.

0 West Main Street Road, Batavia. SHOVEL READY!! This property is ready for you to hit the ground running when you are READY TO BUILD as current owner has DONE ALL THE DETAIL WORK already!!Site work completed with survey, perc test/wastewater treatment plan, building plan, building permit AND housing blueprints should you want!! This 1+ acre lot is conveniently located to all major routes and two thruway exits not to mention shopping restaurants and more-ALSO located in Pembroke School System as an added bonus!! Call Reliant Real Estate today!

Press Release:

New York State Senator George Borrello announced that the New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators is accepting applications for four $3,000 scholarships, two academic and two athletic.    

Scholarships are available to residents of the 57th Senate District who are current college students or high school seniors entering college. Students can access the application by visiting: https://www.nyiacsl.org/apply-for-scholarship-form. The application deadline is Sunday, March 30. 

“This scholarship is a great opportunity for high school seniors and college students in the 57th Senate District who have shown a strong commitment to their education, a drive for excellence, and a dedication to their future success,” said Senator Borrello. “As college costs continue to rise, this support can make a real difference for students and their families. I encourage all eligible students who have worked hard and stood out through their achievements to apply and take advantage of this valuable opportunity.”

Applicants should have a grade point average of 85 or higher; be active in community service as well as extracurricular activities and demonstrate financial need. In addition to these qualifications, students applying for an athletic scholarship must also be involved in an organized sport(s).

Applicants need not be of Italian American heritage to apply.

Scholarship recipients will be announced in April, and the winners will be honored at a ceremony in Albany on May 19, when the Conference’s Italian-American Day Celebration will take place.  

The New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators is a bipartisan organization of state Assembly and Senate members who actively promote and celebrate the state’s Italian American community.  

Press Release:

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) has introduced the No Tax on LOSAP Act, to raise the threshold of nontaxable LOSAP awards at the federal level from $600 a year to $12,000 a year.

Additional cosponsors of the legislation include Representatives Andrew Garbarino (NY-2), Tom Suozzi (NY-3), Mike Lawler (NY-17), and Laura Gillen (NY-4).

LOSAP, or Length of Service Award Payments, are provided to New York State volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. LOSAP awards are tax-exempt at the state level in New York, with each volunteer awarded $20 per month times the number of years of service. The No Tax on LOSAP award would raise the federal tax-exempt threshold to $12,000/year, up from the current $600/year threshold, which would boost retention and compensation for volunteer firefighters.

Rep. Tenney has been a strong supporter of volunteer firefighters across NY-24. In 2024, she held five roundtable events in five counties to hear directly from volunteer firefighters. In addition, she cosponsored the Volunteer First Responder Housing Act to expand access for volunteer emergency responders to participate in certain federal housing assistance programs.

“Volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers are essential for the safety and well-being of our rural communities. Across NY-24, we have over 250 fire departments, many of which rely on volunteer firefighters. Yet, in recent years, the number of volunteer firefighters has declined, making it more important than ever to fairly compensate and reward their dedication. The No Tax on LOSAP Act will raise the tax-exemption threshold to recognize their service and encourage more volunteers to join,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

“More than eighty-five percent of the fire and emergency response in New York State is done by volunteers. Unfortunately, over the last decade, the number of volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel had dropped dramatically across New York. Exempting LOSAP payments from Federal income tax would be a strong incentive in recruiting and retaining volunteer first responders. Once again, Congresswoman Tenney and members of the New York Congressional delegation have shown their understanding and support of the dedicated volunteers who protect their communities,” said John D’Alessandro, Association Secretary, Firefighters Association of the State of New York.

Press Release:

After the Trump administration announced sudden, unplanned mass layoffs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer sounded the alarm about the impact of NOAA layoffs on Upstate New York, including layoffs suspending weather balloon launches in Albany and cutting work at the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory. Schumer demanded answers about how many NOAA staff were fired in New York – and why, and assurances that the agency would restore and maintain critical services for the entire state.

“Upstate NY knows the power of Mother Nature, from lake effect snowstorms to flooding to tornadoes that ravaged the region last summer. From homeowners to businesses to shippers, we know National Weather Service and NOAA satellites are lifesaving tools we need to keep our economy humming and Upstate NY safe from extreme weather. But right now ‘DOGE’ is recklessly taking a chainsaw to the National Weather Service and that could lead to major gaps and Swiss cheese holes in Upstate NY’s weather map when we need more frequent and advanced technology tracking storms,” said Senator Schumer. “These tools are how Upstate NY families get weather reports on a daily basis, how communities get emergency alerts, it is how we know if a snowstorm is going to drop two inches or two feet overnight. These massive cuts to the National Weather Service are already starting to manifest in our backyard with weather balloons not being sent up in Albany, staff being fired, and services for Upstate NY shuttering. I’m demanding any and all cut services be immediately restored and answers about just how deep these cuts have already gone in Upstate New York. The safety of our communities during the next storm depends on it.”

Schumer said we are already seeing the local impact of these cuts. In Albany, the National Weather Service (NWS) announced it is suspending weather balloon launches due to ‘DOGE’ layoffs. Weather balloons give forecasters a three-dimensional picture of the atmosphere in real time, helping meteorologists provide New York residents fast and accurate predictions of what conditions they can expect when they step outside. The senator said these new cuts mean that weather balloons will not be going up in Albany as frequently, and meteorologists will have less data to predict how storms are evolving. Schumer said the hyper local forecasting by the local NWS offices is especially important in instances of extreme weather like these tornados and lake effect snowstorms, it is important for New Yorkers to have fast, reliable, accurate weather forecasts so they can make the best decisions to keep themselves and their families safe.

“How is it in the public’s interest to have less accurate weather information? It is cutting for the sake of cutting with no plan or forethought about the impacts it is having. I am all for rooting out fraud, but decimating weather forecasting people rely on every day is not waste, it is lifesaving information,” said Senator Schumer.

Mass layoffs at NOAA are part of the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s ‘DOGE’s indiscriminate slashes to the federal workforce and federal spending that are creating chaos and confusion in New York and across the country. Schumer said major cuts to our National Weather Service will make weather forecasting less reliable across Upstate New York. The Trump administration has planned mass layoffs at NOAA that would result in a reduction of its workforce by approximately 20%. The Trump administration fired 586 probationary NOAA employees – including 108 NWS employees – last month. The National Weather Service was already short-staffed. Meteorologists warn that these additional cuts will hurt the agency’s ability to make accurate weather predictions. Amid increasing extreme weather in Upstate New York, including a record-high number of tornadoes last summer, Schumer said ‘DOGE’ layoffs at the NWS and less accurate predictions will hurt Upstate New York’s families’ preparedness for extreme weather.

Schumer’s letter to Acting Administrator of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Vice Admiral Nancy Hann can be found below:

Dear Vice Admiral Nancy Hann:

I write to express my deep concern over layoffs and spending cuts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Weather Service (NWS), and the potential severe impact they will have on New York’s storm tracking ability. Reports indicate that NOAA has already terminated over 1,300 of its approximately 13,000-person workforce, and that more of these cuts are being considered, which has alarmed meteorologists, local governments, and residents in New York. Upstate New York communities uniquely rely on these lifesaving federal services for storm tracking and emergency preparedness whether it be for lake effect snowstorms, flooding, or even extreme wind storms and tornadoes as we saw devastated communities across the state last summer.

Already I am receiving reports the NWS in Albany will suspend weather balloon launches due to staffing shortages, the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory which conducts critical environmental research on Great Lakes ecosystems and contributes to more accurate modeling and prediction for the lakes and coastlines has now said it must take an “indefinite hiatus” from public communications. We need clear answers on the extent of these cuts in New York  — as well as a concrete plan for ensuring the reestablishment of already terminated public services as soon as possible.

New York is home to 473 miles of Great Lakes coastline, and it provides drinking water for nearly three million New York residents. Over six million visitors flock to New York’s Great Lakes corridor annually for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities with fishing contributing about $134 million per year to the state’s economy and boating adding over $600 million per year. GLRI and NOAA’s other programs supporting the Great Lakes help keep this natural treasure healthy and beautiful to support the state’s economy and these communities.

NOAA plays an integral role in supporting New York’s Great Lakes fishing communities, farmers, and the general public. NOAA is a leading partner in the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) which helps to clean up Great Lakes waters, prevent and control the spread of invasive species, address harmful algal blooms which are toxic to animals and humans, and conduct scientific research to inform models that help make Great Lakes communities more resilient to extreme weather. NOAA also helps Upstate farmers implement conservation practices that both reduce the environmental impact of their practices and save the farms money. NOAA Fisheries provides critical habitat restoration support to strengthen the coastal ecosystems and communities that make the Great Lakes such a popular destination for recreational opportunities. Additionally, New York Sea Grant Extension conducts research to inform better business decisions and public education on the Great Lakes at offices in Buffalo, Rochester, Newark, Oswego, and Watertown. These programs serve a critical role in bolstering Upstate New York’s businesses, recreation and tourism industries, and ecological health, and any reductions in staffing would harm New York’s Great Lakes communities.

Beyond the Great Lakes, NOAA’s NWS supports 24 stations in New York, including 21 stations Upstate, to provide New Yorkers advanced warnings of severe weather like lake effect snow that Western New York sees every winter, severe storms that flood communities, and even the 32 tornados that struck dozens of sites Upstate last summer. In 2024, New York experienced six storms that were so damaging they qualified for a federal disaster declaration. In December, 2022, Winter Storm Elliott affected the entire state of New York, bringing with it a range of hazards including strong winds with speeds of more than 60 mph, causing whiteout conditions, snow drifts over 12 feet, and extremely low wind chill temperatures. Areas around Lake Erie and Lake Ontario faced both coastal flooding and a lake effect snowstorm. This multi-faceted storm caused devastating consequences that resulted in the loss of over 50 lives. NWS warnings help people stay safe when storms like these strike and can even help save lives. Additionally, farmers rely on NWS data and forecasts to make informed decisions on when to plant, irrigate, and harvest their crops, and when to utilize various pest control measures. Access to NWS data helps farmer mitigate risk and maximize their yields. If New York NWS stations are not adequately staffed, New Yorkers will not have the reliable forecasts they need to stay safe during extreme weather events, farmers would lose access to a key resource they rely on to grow the food that feeds New York, and Great Lakes communities would have little warning to prepare their homes and businesses to weather the storm.

 I am deeply concerned these continuing drastic cuts at NOAA will harm the emergency preparedness and safety of New York’s communities that face extreme weather. The public will suffer if these public services are not re-established. Therefore, I request the following information by March 28, 2025:

1. The number of people fired at NOAA during your tenure as Acting Administrator who are based in New York and what jobs they performed.
2. Any staff or service reductions that have happened or will be taking place at any of New York’s 24 National Weather Service Offices as a result of these cuts and where those will be.
3. The number of people fired at NOAA programs that serve the Great Lakes programs, and how this will impact services for the broader Great Lakes community in New York.
4. The number of people fired at NOAA programs that support grant programs serving New York fishermen and farmers.
5. The number of people fired at New York Sea Grant, if any, and the location of the offices they worked in.
6. Your plan to maintain and restore already suspended services. 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

At 2:26 a.m. on Friday, and lasting until 3:31 a.m., the moon slid fully into the Earth's shadow, creating a lunar eclipse called a blood-red moon.

The eclipse started at 11:57 p.m. on Thursday and lasted until 6 a.m. on Friday.

Photos by Howard Owens.

Press release:

Please be advised that the City of Batavia Water Department will repair a water main on Prospect Avenue, between Richmond Avenue and Mix Place, on Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.  

Traffic will be closed in the area while the repairs are being made. Please use an alternate route.

As always, when the water is restored, it may be discolored.  Please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.

We apologize for any inconvenience, and the public’s patience is greatly appreciated.

On Thursday morning, officials with the Oakfield-Alabama Central School District celebrated the start of construction on the district's new $23 million capital improvement project.

The lead project is a new football/soccer/track stadium.

Justin Staebell, Oakfield-Alabama board president, said:

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the residents of Alabama and Oakfield, as well as the Board of Education, for their steadfast support in making the groundbreaking of our new football, soccer, and track stadium a reality. This exciting new capital project will create enhanced opportunities for our students and community for years to come, and we couldn’t have reached this milestone without your dedication and collaboration. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to our future! 

Additionally, we extend a special thank you to our architects, SEI Design Group, for partnering with us on our second Capital Project over the past six years and to LeChase, our Project Construction Managers, for their hard work and dedication to OA in bringing this vision to life!

Submitted photos.

Alabama-Basom Methodist Church, 1392 Lewiston Road, Alabama. Join us for worship at 10:30 a.m. on March 16. This week our sermon title is "Jesus' Mission", led by Celinda McQuistion (CLM). Scripture readings will be from Philippians 3 ;17-4 ;1 and Luke 13:31-35 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 27 and Philippians 3:17-4:1. Message: “Perseverance”.  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 16, our sermon title is “What Has God Done?” led by Rodney Stringham. (CLM). The Gospel Reading will be from Luke 13:1-9.  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 "Run to the Shelter". To view our services online please go to our website https://indianfallsgmc.com/ for a link for Live Streaming.  NO Youth Group (grades 6-12) meeting this week; mini-mission trip.  We will have Lenten Luncheons at 12 pm on March 19. We offer FREE Respite Care on Wednesday, March 19 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.: register by emailing redlady5343@earthlink.net. 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. Enjoy a visit to our warm and friendly church where God is still speaking. Reverend James Morasco will share his sermon “Entering Your Silence” at 10 am this Sunday. Coffee hour and fellowship will follow the service. 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: “The Transfiguration”.  Scripture: “Matthew 17:1-9” (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! 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 16) we will celebrate The Second Sunday in Lent. The Sermon Theme: “The sacrifice of Jesus upon the cross became the cornerstone of the new Jerusalem, His Church. He visits us today in mercy with His preaching of forgiveness, to gather us to Himself within that holy city, ‘as a hen gathers her brood under her wings’ (Luke 13:34), for ‘our citizenship is in heaven’” (Phil. 3:20). 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 p.m. through April 9. Our Adult Bible Study and Children's Sunday School is every Sunday, 9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m. Communion is part of every Sunday service. Our Youth Group meets every Sunday, 5-7 p.m. Our Men's Bible Study is on pause for the Lenten season and will resume April 30. Our Quilters group meets Tuesday's, 9 - 11am.

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.

*******************************************************

"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

Did you know that New York State is home to the largest resource of tappable maple trees in the United States?
New York State Maple Weekends provide a chance for the public to visit farms to learn about the maple sugar-making processes and traditions, and to provide a chance to taste pure maple syrup in its many forms – right from the source. Visit one of the over 2,000 maple sugar makers in New York State this Maple Weekend.

This event, organized and sponsored by the New York State Maple Producers’ Association, will be held on March 22, 23 & 29, 30, 2025. 

We hope you'll enjoy the taste of the season by visiting our local maple producers this month!

Maple Farms & Sugarhouses

Junior’s Maple | 9280 Alexander Road (Rt. 98), Batavia
Anytime!
Started in 2014, Junior's Maple Products welcomes visitors and locals to stop by the sugar house anytime to purchase maple syrup from their "breezeway" by leaving cash or check in the box. To explore this maple farm and to see the maple syrup process, be sure to call ahead to make sure they're in: 585-813-6446. 

Mudrzynski Homestead | 6982 Norton Rd, Elba
March 22, 23, 29 & 30 from 10-4
Join for an open house to learn how the Mudrzynski's syrup is made. Watch demonstrations how the evaporator works, enjoy maple syrup tastings, and shop for both maple syrup and honey. 

Randall’s Maple Products | 10307 Smithley Road, Alexander
March 22, 23, 29 & 30 from 10-4
Set in a picturesque farm setting adorned with a pond, the Randalls make delicious maple syrup for all to enjoy! During Maple Weekend, visitors will be taken through the process of making maple syrup. Antique maple syrup equipment and a B&O Caboose will be outside near a pond. A few things to note: The number of visitors in the sugarhouse at one time will be limited. While they love pets, please do not bring them along. Some pathways may be muddy and/or icy - be sure to dress accordingly. For inquiries, please call 585-547-3596.

Sweet Dream Maple Farm | 1116 Reynolds Road, Corfu
March 22, 23, 29 & 30 from 10-4
Sweet Dream Maple Farm produces pure NYS Maple Syrup from hundreds of trees owned by friends and neighbors and tapped the old-fashioned way - with buckets. Feel at home in their 200-year-old barn while you learn more about how they collect, and boil maple sap every spring to bring you the freshest maple syrup. You will see their modern evaporator boiling sap with a wood fire just like folks did centuries ago. Tour the maple kitchen to see where all the goodies (like maple cream and maple sugar shapes) are made.
If you have trouble getting around, they have easy access to an observation floor above maple operation so you can still experience the process.
A food truck will be on-site for lunch and will feature maple hot dogs and maple cannoli's! For inquiries, please call 585-356-2669.

Three Leaf Maple Farm | 11000 Chaddock Road, Alexander
March 22, 23, 29 & 30 from 10-4
The Three Leaf Maple group is dedicated to producing high-quality maple syrup and maple treats. They use sustainable harvesting practices to ensure the health and longevity of the maple trees, and they take great care in the processing and bottling of their products to ensure maximum flavor and quality. Their maple syrup is perfect for pancakes, waffles, and ice cream, while their maple treats make for a delicious and unique snack.

Maple Events

You could say that Bailey Groth has had a fluid career so far.

At the age of 27, she has already worked for Genesee County, New York State and now the city of Batavia, and all in ways having to do with that substance none of us can live without: water. Groth began her city career as superintendent of Batavia Water and Wastewater in December.

“I was really excited about the opportunity to work in my community again. I had known and worked well with and befriended multiple people at the city before this, so it just felt like a natural thing to go work with people that I already know and like and work well with, the 2015 Pembroke High School grad said. “I think it's in the field that I'm super interested in, that's always changing. I feel very supported here. I guess I'm just grateful for the opportunity and happy to work and do good work for a place that I'm so comfortable in, like growing up here.”

Her path began after high school when she attended Nazareth College (now University) with her original intention of studying something in the medical field as a biochemistry major. She fairly quickly scrapped that in lieu of a toxicology course as a sophomore, “and it kind of changed my whole perspective,” she said.

“This is what I want to do,” she said. “I just found it really interesting. And I think it was kind of the time period, I was realizing I didn’t want to go into the medical field, and this was a lot of environmental science space, and so that kind of shifted things for me — oh, this is an option where I can do things I’m interested in, stuff like biochemistry and those courses, but I don’t have to do the medical aspects of how I could do more of an environmental science side.”

A high achiever—driven was one of the five words she came up with to describe herself. Groth graduated with not one but two bachelor’s degrees in toxicology and biology. That seemed to complement her personal interests of walking and hiking in nature, having grown up in more rural country of Pembroke, “it was easy to spend time outside.”

“And I ski in the winter, so I’ve always been kind of an outdoor activity kind of person, and so I think it felt a little like kind of natural to go into the sciences in that way,” she said.

Her first job was as an environmental health specialist at Genesee County Health Department, performing health inspections and running the drinking water enhancement program — her favorite part of the job because, one might guess, “the water aspect of it.”

Groth worked with and got to know people at the water plant because they would run the county’s bacteriological samples, “and we had a really good working relationship, and we became friends,” she said.

“So when I became the drinking water program coordinator, it was even easier. We were already friends. So, I worked with the city in a couple of different capacities before I worked here. So then from there, I went to the State Department of Health … my title was environmental analyst, and I wrote drinking water source protection plans,” she said. “So then I got assigned to the city of Batavia to write their drinking water source protection plan. And so then I got to work with even more people at the city … I just found once I had left the county and went to state, I realized that I like working in my own community and doing stuff like that was also a passion of mine.”

She oversees three groups of staff, including chief water operator and chief wastewater operator, supervisor for building maintenance crew, seven water operators, three wastewater operators and a dozen maintenance workers, so 25 total. There is one other woman on staff in building maintenance, and Groth has no problem leading her team or being outnumbered by men, she said.

“I think sometimes women have to work harder than men for recognition than their male colleagues. I haven’t had any issues here,” she said. “I just want to reiterate how awesome everyone is here because they really, really are, and I learn so much every single day from them, and I'm very grateful to work with them.”

For anyone wanting to jump into a field that may be more heavily occupied by men, she encourages you to “go for it” and advocate for yourself.

While she may have to be on-site at the water and wastewater plants many times per week — her office holds a charm all its own. A small pink fridge, just big enough to hold six cans of seltzer, and a string of white lights around the window and over her desk are the beginnings of her decor. Plus, her prized photo of Tuna B. Salad, a handsome, light green-eyed, black cat.

A quick tour of the wastewater facility serves as a reminder of what her staff deals with each day. Chief Operator John Senko, who’s been there since 2009, talked about the 3.5 to 4 million gallons that are processed during the wet season versus 2.5 million gallons in the dryer summer months. The very back room, with blowers running, is where it’s especially aromatic. Similar to a large manure field.

Workers have to manually dump carts, and a ridged track that catches the material hauls it on a conveyor belt, allowing sand and rocks to fall in the water beneath. Small toys will sneak in from household incidents, Senko said.

The facility serves the 15,600 city residents, about 5,000 people outside the city and some 14 industries. The waste is carefully processed through a 24 million gallon per day central pump station, three aerated treatment lagoons, two secondary lagoons that are fed alum to assist in phosphorus removal, four tertiary treatment lagoons and three polishing wetlands.

Once all of the processing and breakdown has happened, with the final phase of screening, settling, and nutrient uptake in the wetlands, the remaining material is ready to discharge into Tonawanda Creek after several months.

There are lab readings and monitoring at every step, similar to at the water plant, to ensure that the water is of consumable quality, Groth said.

“I think as children, I was always taught water is a renewable resource, you know, like the natural cycle of things, but it's not renewable if it's polluted beyond repair kind of thing. So it's definitely a precious resource. And I do think we take it for granted. I think we're very lucky to be in Western New York, where we have the Great Lakes, and we're not in the desert,” she said. “But I do think, as time progresses and we face things like droughts and whatnot, I hope people see more of it as a precious resource, because I do.

“The people that work to produce clean water for drinking water, clean potable water, there's so much work that goes into it. And I don't think people know that or realize how expensive it is and how hard-working these people are that do it. They're not just pushing a button; they're doing hard, manual labor,” Groth said. “And I know from working with people here they really genuinely care and are passionate about it and do everything they can to produce good, clean water. So I also want people to know that and recognize that, too. And the people that do the wastewater too, it's like they want to put out good, effluent … the pond system is kind of a more environmentally friendly treatment system, and so I think that's very cool to have here in a small city like Batavia. I want people to be appreciative of their public works because I think the people do so much work, and that's why they don't think about it is because it's just you turn your tap on and you have water there and it's clean, or you flush your toilet and it goes somewhere, and you don't ever have to think about it again, thank God.”

There will be plenty to keep her busy, with a long-awaited Cohocton water main replacement coming up this year, working on a wastewater discharge permit, and the lead service line inventory throughout the city to identify and replace lead pipes.

When she’s not working on water issues, Groth, who lives in Alden, enjoys spending time with her boyfriend Adam, walking, hiking, traveling — she’s gone to Peru and captured Machu Picchu and to Utah’s national parks — and spending time with lots of local family. They include mom Peg, sister Camryn, brother Ben, his daughters Elena and Leona, and grandparents. Roger and Carol Richardson, nephew Callan, and not-so-local older sister Meghan in Vermont.

The Batavia Business and Professional Women’s Club is a not-for-profit organization in Batavia and invites you for their annual Meat Raffle on Saturday March 29^th at Notre Dame High School Gym, 73 Union St. Batavia.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., first spin is at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets are available until sold out at $15 each or $100 for a table of eight. Includes beer, wine, pop and water. 

Bring your own snacks, cooler and dollar bills.  Must be 21 or older to attend and no outside alcohol. 

There will be many side raffles, including meat packages, gift cards, a 50/50 and a chest freezer for the grand prize.

All proceeds are to benefit Genesee County high school scholarships and service organizations in May. 

Event flyer: BBPWC Meat Raffle 2025

For Tickets, contact Sara Balbi at 585-734-6437 or sarajane6677@yahoo.com

Press Release:

The City of Batavia, in collaboration with the YWCA of Batavia and the Genesee County District Attorney's Office, is launching a survey to better understand the response to and services for Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) in our community. 

IPV includes any behavior that one intimate partner (current or former) uses to establish power and control over another intimate partner. This may include physical or sexual violence and/or financial, emotional/psychological, cultural, spiritual, and reproductive abuse, as well as other forms of controlling behavior. 

We invite survivors of IPV to share their experiences and insights, which will greatly aid us in developing enhanced responses to these incidents. Your input is invaluable in helping us create a safer and more supportive environment for all. 

To participate in the survey, please click on this link https://s.surveyplanet.com/whw1d5h8. We appreciate your time and willingness to contribute to this important effort. All results are anonymous. Together, we can work towards creating a better response to intimate partner violence and providing the necessary support to those affected.

In the middle of a shaky stock market and uncertain economic future, there’s one thing that has been able to ride out even the worst financial storms, Patrick Burk says.

And that’s show business, in its many forms, including the one most dear to him, live theater by Batavia Players.

“Keep in mind, during the Great Depression, the only industry that excelled was entertainment,” Burk said to The Batavian during an interview about the Players’ new lease and determination to forge ahead. “We're ecstatic with how it ended up. We're very happy with the confidence the city manager and the city has shown us. We knew that we were on the right track.”

The nonprofit group has faced its share of hurdles so far, going from an expensive construction of Main St. 56 Theater to an even more costly project due to pandemic shutdowns in 2020-21, supply chain and labor delays, and the final nail in the production season’s coffin: not being able to continue with plays and musicals and collect revenue from ticket sales.

While in arrears with back rent adding up to more than $25,000, the group rallied to begin paying it back, and with assistance from attorney Ed Graney, negotiated with city officials for a new lease this year.

“When all of this came up, it was just a matter of making sure that it was presented in a way that was acceptable for everybody. We've had some very positive things happen, including, we have back rent down to $18,000, we've been able to pay our rent on time, on a monthly basis since December,” Burk said. “We kind of knew that that's where we were going. It's just we wanted to make sure that we could get there. We're ahead on where we originally where the agreement says we should be, so we're maintaining that."

City Council approved the deal during its business meeting on Monday.

“It's important for the public to know that we have been able to accomplish and do what we really said we were going to, and I think it's important for them to know that we're very healthy and we're doing well and we're producing 12 to 13 shows a year,” Burk said. “And everything is moving along. It's a very successful venture, it’s just been a very positive result, and we're just very happy that it ended up, through negotiations, everything that we all went through, we enjoy the fact that we have the confidence of the city and the city manager, and here we go.”

The lease is for five years. Burk doesn’t know if any kind of negative economic longevity will affect the theater since that industry as a whole has been strong throughout the decades, he said. Batavia Players has “some major work of fundraising” to do, which is happening on a regular basis, and a recent spaghetti dinner event went very well, he said.

Memberships are on the rise, along with everyone’s hopes for another successful season. Up next is Shakespeare in Springtime: the Winter’s Tale, set for 7:30 p.m. March 21 and 22 and 2 p.m. March 23.

“So all we can do is just keep working the work and keep doing the work,” Burk said. “And hoping for positive outcomes.”

Charles Phillp Stevens, 36, of Clinton Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of narcotics with intent to sell and criminal possession of a narcotic drug. Stevens was allegedly found in possession of cocaine during a traffic stop at 12:02 a.m. on March 7 on Lake Street Road, Le Roy. He was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held pending arraignment.

Clint Jeffery Towne, 44, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon 3rd. Towne was arrested at 9:15 p.m. on Feb. 28 on these charges following a prior on Feb. 21 on a separate incident. During a search of his property at a location on Phelps Road, Pembroke, he was allegedly found in possession of an assault weapon and multiple large-capacity magazines. He was incarcerated at the time and released back into the custody of the Genesee County Jail.

Justin A. Reisman, 36, of Water-Port Carlton Road, Carlton, is charged with tampering with physical evidence and obstructing governmental administration. Following a fatal motor vehicle accident on Tesnow Road at 8:04 p.m. on Feb. 23, Reisman allegedly entered the crime scene and remained unlawfully after being told to leave several times by sheriff's deputies. Reisman was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Jarad Michael Stalker, 40, of Indian Falls Road, Pembroke, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Stalker was arrested on Feb. 19 at 10:06 p.m. on a warrant and allegedly found with narcotics in a pocket of his clothing. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Tammy M. O'Shea, 53, of Main Road, Stafford, is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and improper or unsafe turn. O'Shea was stopped at 2:35 a.m. on Feb. 22 on East Main Street, Batavia, by Deputy Ryan Mullen. O'Shea was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Thomas Cody Schell, 38, of South Pearl Street, Oakfield, is charged with DWI and speeding. Schell was stopped at 2:34 a.m. on March 8 on Clinton Street Road, Bergen, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Schell was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Bonnie Jane Moser, 52, of Bethany Center Road, Bethany, is charged with petit larceny. Moser is accused of shoplifting from a store on Veterans Memorial Drive at 7:20 p.m. on March 8 (the Sheriff's Office did not disclose the name of the store in the arrest report).  Moser allegedly tried to steal six items valued at $95.12. She was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Brandi Rose Hough, 29, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th.  Hough was arrested following a Probation Department home visit at 10:15 a.m. on March 7. She was allegedly found in possession of methamphetamine. 

Dale R. Williams, 41, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI, aggravated unlicensed operation, and driving without insurance. Williams was stopped at 12:50 a.m. on March 1 on Richmond Avenue in Batavia by Deputy Ayrton Blankenberg. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Colleen Michell Hutchinson, 50, of Ellicott Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, driving a vehicle without a stop lamp, and uninspected motor vehicle. Hutchinson was stopped at 4:48 p.m. on March 3 by Deputy Jeremy McClellan. She was allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine and "narcotic equipment used to smoke crack cocaine." She was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Rashad Tariq Cordell, 25, of State Street Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property 3rd and aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd. Cordell is accused of possessing a stolen vehicle at 10 p.m. on Feb. 27 on Park Road, Batavia. He was held pending arraignment.

Robert Paul Leiser, 56, of Lockport Road, Alabama, is charged with hindering prosecution 3rd. Leiser is accused of allowing Marc C. Cook to live on his property while knowing Cook had active felony warrants. Leiser was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Dana Lee Powers, 54, of Prestige Xing, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, and operating a vehicle without stop lamps. Powers was stopped at 12:21 a.m. on Feb. 28 on Ellicott Street, Batavia, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Powers was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Raymond James Dick, 60, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Also arrested was Sandra L. Marsceill. They were allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance while in a parking lot on Veterans Memorial Drive at 3:48 p.m. on Feb. 25. They were transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Press Release:

The HomeCare & Hospice Foundation is assembling the mightiest little heroes for an action-packed day at its first-ever Superhero Bash! This high-energy event, set for Sunday, March 30 at Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia, will offer kids the ultimate superhero experience with interactive activities, games, and fun challenges designed to bring out their inner hero.

"We are thrilled to introduce this exciting new event to our lineup," said Melissa Sullivan, CEO of HomeCare & Hospice. "After the incredible success of our Princess Party (held in Olean), we knew we needed something equally fun for all the young heroes in our community. With over-the-top activities and hands-on fun, we can't wait to see these superheroes in action!"

At the Superhero Bash, kids will:

• Create their own custom cape and shield
• Test their aim in a shield toss challenge
• Tackle an exciting superhero obstacle course
• Show off their best moves in a superhero freeze dance
• Refuel with super snacks to keep their powers strong

The superhero menu will include: Power-Up Pizza Shields, Bat-a-roni and Cheese, Crunch Force Veggie Dippers, and Superpower Punch.

"The best part is that this event isn't just about fun—it's about making a difference," added Sullivan. "Every registration and sponsorship supports compassionate care services through the HomeCare & Hospice Foundation, helping families in need across our communities."

The Superhero Bash will take place on Sunday, March 30, at Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia. Young heroes can choose from three action-packed sessions: 10 - 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., or 1 - 2 p.m. Registration is $20 per child for employees and $25 per child for the public. Secure your spot today by signing up at 2025superhero.givesmart.com!

Volunteer & Sponsorship Opportunities

Calling all sidekicks! Want to be part of the action? We need volunteers to help with registration, craft stations, the obstacle course, and more. Shifts are just 1.5 hours, making it a fun and easy way to give back. Sign up today: https://bit.ly/4i35sO7.

Want to support our young superheroes? Sponsorships range from $200 to $500, providing businesses with recognition on event signage, promotional materials, and more. Your sponsorship can help sponsor a young hero’s experience!

Proceeds from this event will benefit the HomeCare & Hospice Foundation, ensuring continued support for patients and families in need. Since 2004, the Foundation has raised and distributed funds to help provide compassionate care services across our communities.  For more information about registering, volunteering, or sponsorship opportunities, contact Meme Yanetsko at myanetsko@homecare-hospice.org.

Suit up, power up, and save the day!

Press Release:

Since 1959, the Genesee County Soil and Water Conservation District has honored a deserving agricultural producer with the Conservation Farm of the Year Award. This award is given to a producer that has displayed a long-term commitment to sustainable conservation, leads by example, and implements farm conservation best management practices. This year’s recipient is Edmund Acres, LLC of Le Roy.

Edmund Acres, LLC is owned and operated by Nate Edmund. Edmund Acres, LLC is a grain crop farm that grows corn, soybeans, and wheat on over 1,000 acres in Genesee, Monroe, and Orleans County. The farm has worked with Genesee County Soil and Water since 2013 to plan and implement best management practices. 

Soil health is at the foundation of the farm’s crop production practices, with a focus on reducing tillage through strip-till and no-till practices and improving soil organic matter with cover cropping. Edmund Acres, LLC also follows an integrated pest management plan and a nutrient management plan.

Edmund Acres, LLC has been an active participant with Genesee County Soil and Water and the Natural Resources Conservation Service over the past 12 years. To recognize the work that has been done, the farm will be presented the 2024 Conservation Farm of the Year Award at the Celebrate Agriculture Dinner on March 15, at the Alexander Fire Hall.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) visited T.J. Connor Elementary, Wolcott Street School and Dorothy B. Bunce Elementary for Read Across America Day. Hawley read There’s No Place Like Space to students as they learned about topics such as the solar system. This event has been a longstanding tradition for Hawley and his office, and he is proud to be able to host it for another year.

“Read Across America Day highlights the important role books have in our classrooms,” said Hawley. “Through reading, our students are able to expand their minds and create a passion for learning. I want to thank all of the schools, teachers and staff members for making this event possible and for putting their time, talent and energy into educating the next generation.”

Submitted photos.