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.
Press Release:
In recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, Genesee County will host "Healing Community, A Community Awareness Event" on Monday, April 7, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Grace Baptist Church (238 Vine St, Batavia). This free event is open to the public and aims to honor victims and survivors, raise awareness about victim services, and strengthen community support.
The 2025 national theme, "Kinship: Connecting & Healing," highlights the importance of community connections in the healing process for victims and survivors.
Event Highlights:
- Honor Guard & Bagpipe Ceremony – A solemn tribute to victims and survivors.
- Keynote Speaker: Linda Dynel – Author of Leaving Dorian: A Memoir of Hope and its sequel Finding Krissy: A Memoir of Survival, Dynel’s powerful story explores resilience in the face of intimate partner violence.
- Panel Discussion: "How Do I Get Help?" – Local organizations will share insights into the support and services available for victims.
- Opening & Closing Remarks – Presented by the Genesee County Sheriff's Office and the Genesee County District Attorney’s Office.
Registration & Award Nominations:
This event is free to attend and lunch will be provided at no cost. Registration is required to secure a spot and select a lunch option. Registration can be completed here https://qrco.de/GCVRW.
The Crime Victims’ Rights Week committee also invites you to submit a nomination for one or more of the following three awards: The Outstanding Volunteer Service Award, the Courage & Resilience Award, and the Crime Victim Service Award. The nomination form can be submitted here https://qrco.de/GCVRWA.
For additional information, contact Genesee Justice at (585) 815-7821 or visit www.geneseeny.gov/cvrw.
Press release:
The tri-county coalition dedicated to community health and well-being is back in the public eye – with a new name and a new coordinator.
Formerly the GOW Opioid Task Force, the GOW CARES Alliance has scheduled its first quarterly meeting of the year for 12:30 p.m. April 1 at Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St., Batavia.
The session is open to the public at no charge. Lunch will be provided.
Sue Gagne, who was honored in 2024 by state Sen. George Borrello as a New York State “Woman of Distinction” for the 57th District, has assumed the role of coordinator of the organization. Gagne, a registered nurse, has been active in the mental health and suicide prevention fields for more than two decades.
“Over the past several months, we have been working on the transition from the opioid task force into a more comprehensive group, broadening our focus to not only substance use but mental health, trauma and suicide prevention in Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming counties and the surround area,” Gagne said.
She said the GOW CARES Alliance is dedicated to improving the quality of life in rural communities through broad-based, inclusive partnerships that support overall wellness.
GOW CARES Alliance members are from various sectors of the community, including public health, mental health, human services, local government, substance use disorder treatment and recovery agencies, law enforcement, EMS, faith-based groups, health systems and medical practitioners, education, businesses, concerned individuals, families, and individuals in recovery.
Gagne said representative from human services’ agencies are invited to set up resource tables at the meeting on April 1 meeting. This can be done by sending an email to Sherri Bensley, the group’s education workgroup co-chair, at sherri.bensley@geneseeny.gov by March 28.
“All are welcome to support the effort to make our community a healthier place to live,” Gagne added.
Persons wishing to attend the meeting can register, also by that date, at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gow-cares-alliance-quarterly-meeting-tickets-1192412119749?aff=oddtdtcreator.
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a visit to Oliver's Candies or The Sweet Life Country Store.
Western New York National Cemetery Council will host the final Vietnam Veteran Memorial ceremony at the end of this month, per a proclamation signed by then-President Donald Trump in 2017, William Joyce says.
The proclamation was to “confirm the commitment of this nation to the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, which began on Memorial Day 2012 and will continue through Veterans Day 2025.”
Joyce, director for Genesee County Veterans Service Agency, is not certain why the final date was earmarked for March and not in November on Veterans Day, he said, however, it has been set.
The last ceremony will be at 11 a.m. March 29 at the Garrison flag pole of the cemetery, 1254 Indian Falls Road, Corfu. Joyce said that the public is welcome and encouraged to attend this last rite of honor for Vietnam veterans at this location.
Elected now as the 47th president, Trump and his administration have put the Department of Veterans Affairs up for mass layoffs “as early as June,” according to a memo reviewed by Reuters.
Healthcare and other services for veterans could be compromised by planned reductions at the Department of Veterans Affairs as it apparently seeks to cut more than 80,000 workers, Reuters said in a March 9 news article.
Joyce didn’t believe it would affect his position or his office locally in Batavia.
“It won’t affect me because I’m a county employee doing VA claims and making sure veterans are taken care of, and their spouses. So it won’t affect me or this office,” he said, adding that he didn’t want to speculate about potential cuts to the VA Hospital and related veterans programs. “I haven’t heard anything about that. It’s still green.”
Fathead minnows as a source of municipal revenue.
Who knew? Well, those at the city of Batavia’s wastewater treatment facility apparently did, and a request for bids to harvest the little guys was reeled in by two takers.
The highest bid submitted by Ray Daniels, however, required a non-collusive bidding certification and that was not signed, City Attorney George Van Nest said Monday.
“Mr. Daniels wrote a letter complaining about not being awarded the bid. However, I corresponded with him and identified that two pages were required for the bid. First Page was the financial offer … The second was the non-collusive bidding form, which is required under General Municipal Law Section 103 P. He did not complete that when he submitted his bid; therefore, his bid cannot be considered," Van Nest said during City Council’s business meeting at City Hall. “Just want to make that clear for council.”
Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. reiterated the attorney’s point that it’s “very important … to make sure that all paperwork is complete.”
“And maybe check with someone who knows how to do it to make sure you get it right because it’s unfortunate,” he said. “But technically, we can’t allow this.”
The next highest bidder was a A-1 Bait Supply of Niagara Falls, with a bid of $28,000 and the option of two additional years: years two at $30,000 and year three at $40,000.
Harvesting will occur at the wastewater treatment facility at 5 Treadeasy Ave. in Batavia.
Jankowski and Council member Bob Bialkowski lauded the sale. Bialkowski said the city invests a lot of money into the facility, including chemicals, treatments, and lime sludge removal.
“And we do get some return on the money,” he said. “I mean, this contract works just under $100,000 over three years. So it is a substantial amount of money to sell these.”
The minnows can end up as bait for sportsmen in the area, so “it gets recycled into recreation and various other activities for people even in the area,” Jankowski added. “So it’s kind of a nice cycle of events that take place to allow us to get some of the money back.”
City Council approved it with a unanimous yes vote from members Bob Bialkowski, Rich Richmond, Eugene Jankowski, Derek Geib, Kathy Briggs, David Twichell, Al McGinnis, and Tammy Schmidt. Council member Paul Viele was absent.
Previously: Batavia Wastewater Treatment Plant, one of city's hidden treasures
A year after his life was taken while on duty, the badge number of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello, GS-09, was retired from service in a memorial on Monday outside the Sheriff's Office on Park Road, Batavia.
Also honored were three members of the department who also lost their lives in the line of duty: Constable William H. Johnson, March 15, 1895; Corections Officer Raymond F. Thompson, May 30, 2002; and, Deputy Frank Bordonaro, July 8, 2014.
"The badge we wear is more than just a piece of metal," said Sheriff Joseph Graff. "It represents commitment, sacrifice, courage, honor, unwavering dedication to protecting and serving our community. It's a reminder of the trust that is placed in those who wear it. We honor these men as they've been pillars of strength and mentors to many, true embodiments of integrity and professionalism. Through countless challenges and moments of triumph, they have worn the badge with honor, putting the needs of others aside for themselves. Their impact goes far beyond the uniform. They have touched lives, provided comfort in difficult times and made our community a better, safer place."
Brian Thompson, a retired deputy and brother of Raymond Thompson, delivered the closing prayer.
"Let the light of Your countenance, oh God, shine upon the families of our departed comrades," Thompson prayed at his closing. "May we go from your strength to your strength. Strengthen us all in resolve and keep faith with all patriots, servants, and shields by fearlessly maintaining our liberties so nobly won and paid for by those who have gone on before us. Grant us your help, oh God, that the families here today and the officers and members of the Sheriff's Office and local departments and jurisdictions may valiantly fulfill their role to our country, our state, our county and our home to serve towards your purpose of the establishment of justice and peace."
There was just one question before City Council voted on a lease agreement with Batavia Players Monday evening.
Has the group made any more payments since the last meeting, Councilman Bob Bialkowski said.
“Not that I’m aware of, no, but they’re working hard to make those catch-up payments,” City Manager Rachael Tabelski said during council’s meeting at City Hall. “I don’t have the exact balance but I believe they were down to $19,000.”
The lease renewal due in January was on hold due to back rent owed to the city by the nonprofit from Covid days when its Main St. 56 Theater was shut down. A newly drafted lease has been put in place and was up for a vote during the council’s business meeting.
This agreement is for Batavia Players to pay $4 per square foot plus back rent of at least $500 per month in an effort to move forward from an original lease in December 2019.
The commercial lease is for city properties 2, 35 and 39 in Batavia City Centre, including 11,052 square feet of “improved commercial space that was renovated by Batavia Players through a Downtown Revitalization Initiative and Anchor grant,” Tabelski had said in a memo to council. “Base rent will remain $4 per square foot to be paid $3,684 monthly. Back rent will be paid $500 per month or more until the balance is satisfied.
"The lease also recognizes the city’s capital projects for the roof and HVAC units previously approved by City Council and clarifies how the Batavia Players shall submit requests for maintenance to the property,” she said.
York pulled out a two-point victory over Alexander on Monday at Letchworth in the Boys Basketball Class C consolidation game.
York won 66-64.
Scoring for the Trojans:
Photos by Melissa Brooks.
Press Release:
The Western New York National Cemetery Memorial Council (WNYNCMC) will be hosting the LAST “VIETNAM VETERAN MEMORIAL” ceremony at the WNY National Cemetery, 1254 Indian Falls Road, Corfu, at 1100 hrs. (11 a.m.) March 29 at the Garrison Flag pole.
The public is welcome and encouraged to attend this final ceremony honoring the Vietnam Veterans.
Press Release:
On Wednesday, February 26, members of the Leadership Genesee Class of 2025 met at Liberty Pumps in Bergen to begin their journey into discovering all kinds of things in relation to Genesee County’s Business & Economics. As one member shared, it was an AMAZING day, I learned so much about my city and my county!
At Liberty Pumps, the group participated in an activity designed to identify how much of their expendable income is spent in Genesee County. Much of our shopping today is done online for time and convenience. However, the group learned that by supporting local businesses, it ensures the vitality of the local economy and job creation which is good for everyone. What is spent local, stays local as 65 cents of every dollar spent remains in our community and even when shopping at a local big box store, the county retail sales tax stays here.
Mark Masse LG ’02, President & CEO of the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC), explained their purpose is to facilitate local economic growth and development, which fosters investment and job creation for the benefit of our residents and children. The organization has a board of directors, ensuring the vision is accomplished. He shared how the organization helps market and fund projects to bring them to Genesee County, ultimately helping grow the tax base for our residents.
Robyn Brookhart LG ’02, Chief Executive Officer and Dennis Burke LG ’01, Chief Financial Officer at Liberty Pumps gave the class perspective of how important their organization’s corporate culture is and how they work to maintain it. It is collaborative, communicative, and engaging where all members are respected. Their business has grown from 50 employees 20 years ago to over 330 today. They are intentional in words and actions which was evident as the class toured the manufacturing plant.
Class members visited 17 local businesses to get an all-around view of how important local business leaders work for their families, their customers and for the Genesee County economy.
The day ended at Eli Fish where the class heard Matt Gray LG ’11 talk about his business/ leadership journey and plans for future business development. The sentiment felt by everyone was that the entire day opened them up to reflect on how and where they spend their money and exactly why it matters.
February’s session was hosted by Liberty Pumps, Inc. and Eli Fish Brewing Co. Meals were sponsored by Lawley and Gavin M. Townsend, Lic. RE Salesperson at HUNT ERA Batavia.
Leadership Genesee is a program of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities. For more information, visit LG’s website at http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/leadership-genesee; “like” LG on Facebook at www.facebook.com/leadershipgenesee; or contact Program Director Peggy Marone at 585-343-3040, ext. 118 or mem77@cornell.edu.
Submitted photos.
Press Release:
The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce its Garth Swanson Memorial Scholarship for 2025. This scholarship was created in honor of Garth Swanson, who was the Stafford Town Historian, History professor at Genesee Community College, and a former board member and officer of the museum.
This $500 scholarship is open to any graduating senior in Genesee County planning to attend Genesee Community College, or current student attending Genesee Community College, and have an expressed interest in history, or plan on working in the history field in the future.
Completed applications should be mailed or emailed no later than May 1. They can be emailed to Ryan Duffy at duffyhollandlandoffice@gmail.com; or Mailed to Ryan Duffy, Executive Director, Holland Land Office Museum, 131 W. Main St., Batavia.
The application is available on both the museum’s website and social media pages. You can also contact the museum for the application or further information.
Town of Batavia Fire held its annual awards and installation dinner on Saturday at Terry Hills.
At the start of the evening, the department held a moment of silence in remembrance of Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, who died in the line of duty on March 10, 2024, shortly after then of last year's dinner. Town volunteers responded to Batavia Downs for that incident.
Line officers sworn in:
The department responded to 500 calls in 2024, including 233 fire alarms.
A Lucky Paws Vendor Show & Basket Raffle is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Batavia City Centre in downtown Batavia. This event will feature more than 40 baskets and 65 vendors, with proceeds to benefit Vanessa’s Lasting Legacy Ltd.
There will also be pet photos taken for $10 each from 10 a.m. to noon. Participants are asked to please bring only pet-friendly dogs and cats, as organizers are not responsible for your pets or anything that might happen while on site.
Vanessa’s Lasting Legacy’s mission is to help keep dogs and cats from being separated from their local veterans, people with disabilities, the elderly and homeless.
“We focus on how animals protect our mental health and to keep the animals out of shelters and with their families,” co-organizer Kerry Dudek said.
Receive five free basket raffle tickets with a donation of unopened cat or dog food. Winners for the baskets to be drawn at 3:30 p.m.
Donations are also being accepted for new socks, hats, gloves, or other winter wear by Independent Living of the Genesee Region.
Press Release:
March is American Red Cross Month, a time to recognize the vital role the Red Cross plays in our communities. Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) is demonstrating his commitment to this important cause by sponsoring a series of blood drives throughout the month. Hawley is hosting seven drives total, four in Genesee County and three in Orleans County.
The blood drives are as follows:
- Monday, March 10: Pavilion Fire Department Recreation Hall, 11302 S. Lake Rd., Pavilion, from 1:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
- Friday, March 14: Lyndonville Presbyterian Church, 107 N Main St., Lyndonville, from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Tuesday, March 18: Albion Elks Lodge 1006, 428 W State St., Albion, 12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
- Tuesday, March 18: First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Rd., Batavia, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Thursday, March 20: Holy Name of Mary, 2707 Angling Rd., East Pembroke, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
- Saturday, March 29: Hoag Library- Albion, 134 S. Main St., Albion, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Schedule an appointment by going to RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS 1-800-733-2767.
“Red Cross Month is an important time to honor the mission of saving lives through giving blood,” said Hawley. “I encourage everyone who is able to take the time to give blood and make a lifesaving difference. Your generosity can provide hope and healing to patients in need.”
The Elba Lancers Girls Basketball season remains perfect, with a 54-26 win over Filmore on Saturday to capture the Section V Class D championship.
Sydney Reilly scored a game-high 25 points to lead the Lancers to victory.
Brea Smith scored 14 points.
Photos by Debra Reilly.
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