Press Release:

The Board of Directors of The Jerome Foundation is pleased to announce that the recipient of the 39th Health and Humanitarian Award is Jay Gsell. 

This prestigious award recognizes volunteer men and women of Genesee County who have helped promote the emotional, physical and spiritual well-being of area residents.

In nominating Jay Gsell for the award, his neighbor James Patric notes “when we moved next door to Jay, he immediately came out of his house – introduced himself, welcomed us and said “how can I help?” So began a cherished friendship and our four children look forward to “Mr. Jay’s treats” left on the back steps. 

As a dedicated volunteer with Rotary, United Way, Salvation Army, GLOW with your hands, Premier Nursing Home, to name a few, Jay exemplifies the spirit of humanitarianism through his unwavering commitment to these causes. 

Chris Suozzi, GCEDC, adds “Jay is first to volunteer and assist us with GLOW with your hands and the Box Car Derby – events that support our community youth. He brings energy and enthusiasm which is unmatched”.

Fellow Rotarian Susie Ott states “Jay is someone who volunteers not for recognition but I think he deserves to be recognized for all that he does and the people he has helped during his living and working in our community.”

Mr. Gsell will be honored at a luncheon at Terry Hills Restaurant on Friday, December 6, at noon. Tickets are $30 per person.

For reservations, please send check to: The Jerome Foundation, PO Box 249, Batavia by November 29. For more information contact Chris Fix, 585-356-3419.

Every year Sue Underwood, executive director of Genesee Cancer Assistance, asks one or two people to share their story for the nonprofit’s annual dinner, and this year she thought that Kristina Gilbert, whose family had dealt with cancer multiple times, was a perfect candidate.

It took a little self-convincing for Gilbert to agree.

“When Sue asked me, I was kind of taken back, but then I remembered my promise to my sister. It was to keep her story and her memory alive for all of us,” Gilbert said during the annual gathering Saturday night at Batavia Downs. “So I hope that, if anything, you can take away that cancer does not discriminate, but it also doesn’t take away the hope that we all have and that it is a journey. We can all come together and we can fight it together, and we all have a purpose in this world.”

Her family’s cancer “journey,” as she called it, began in April 2019, when she took her sister Candy to the emergency room with excruciating pain in her right side. After a CT scan, the doctor discovered a cyst on her ovary, and a spot at the very bottom of her lung that turned out to be cancer.

Her ovary was clean, but the spot on her lung had to be removed, Gilbert said. Her sister was told by the doctor that if she had to have cancer, that was the “best kind.” She did not require chemo or radiation, and Candy just celebrated five years of being cancer-free this past summer.

Although her sister was fortunate to have good health insurance and was not in need of GCA’s financial assistance, Gilbert learned more about the nonprofit because she and  Underwood attend the same church. That was information that Gilbert unknowingly would turn to in the future. 

In April 2022, her sister Carrie made a trip to the ER for what she thought were kidney stones. After a CT scan, doctors again discovered cancer. This time, however, it was already at Stage IV, and in her liver, spine, bones and lungs. 

“We were beyond devastated when a trip to the ER, when you’re thinking of kidney stones, turns out to be a terminal illness,” Gilbert said. “Carrie received radiation to help with the bone and spine cancer, and after that was completed, she started chemo. It wasn’t long after she started chemo that her hair began to thin and fall out.”

That’s when the family recalled GCA and its Simply Beautiful, Simply Renewal program that provides services and education to help those dealing with effects of cancer look and feel their best with wigs and makeup.

Carrie met Nickie Fazio, who worked with her to find a wig — of just the right type, color, tone and fit — and help her to feel comfortable with the new look.

“When Carrie went and got her wig, she was elated. She was so excited. She asked my mom if she could drive her over to our office, social services, so we could see her. I could see her smile a mile away. She was so excited, and she looked beautiful. It was exactly how I remember her hair just long and straight with a little curl. And she was excited because she put the barrette and everything in it, and she said it was the first time she finally felt more like herself,” Gilbert said. “It was this past April 14 that Carrie lost her battle with cancer. We said goodbye to her way too soon.”

The funny — and sad — thing is, she said, that wasn’t the end of the cancer journey. Their mom, Bonnie, was diagnosed with colon cancer while taking care of Carrie. She received 12 rounds of chemotherapy and, despite the unpleasant side effects, she continued to show up for treatment and to care for her daughter. In fact, “she was the best caregiver Carrie could have ever asked for,” Gilbert said.

GCA did help her mom with financial assistance to offset some costs not covered by insurance.

“I work on the insurance side of business, and it's sad that people who need care are often struggling to get the care that they need. And it's foundations and organizations like this that are fantastic, and I know my family is grateful for that. No amount of money is too small or too big. It's been a crazy year, but I can say that, without a doubt, it's brought us closer. And I can't thank Genesee County Cancer Assistance enough. It's not just the money side or anything that helped us. It's the fact that they’re family, and to this day, every Sunday, Sue says, ‘How are you doing, Christina? How's your family? How's your mom? Is there anything you guys need?’” she said. “And as a matter of fact, I talked to Sue that day that Carrie passed away. We were trying to find a bed for Carrie, and Sue was trying to help us. They care for not only the patient, but the family, and they are with them the entire journey, and even after, so I thank you all so much, and I hope that our story helps you all a little bit tonight, thank you.”

The event theme was “Night at the Downs,” complete with red carpet, and it drew about 315 people, making it the largest attendance ever, Underwood said. Last year brought in 290 people for what began as a social event and evolved into an evening filled with basket raffle announcements and a card game with one prize for the last man, or woman, standing. 

“This originally started out just to be a social thankful gathering. It's November, time to be thankful, and we didn't even have the basket raffle. And then we had people saying, where's your basket raffle? So it's never really meant to be a fundraiser. It has kind of, of course, turned into a little bit of that because the baskets are all donated, and so we get to have those proceeds. But we just originally just wanted the time where we could kind of end the year out and have people come together and hear some stories. And so we've tried to pick some speakers that have great meaning to what we do and why we do what we do,” Underwood said. “So for this year, specifically, it was nice. We did introduce our new, simply, beautiful, enhanced program. So that was fun. We always just try to have a game to get the crowd engaged, and Chapin was a $3,000 sponsor for us this year and offered to bring that board. And we were so excited to be able to change it up with this red carpet theme. So yeah, it was fun.”

Kate Willson, owner of  Meraki Beauty and newly opened The Beauty Lounge by Meraki in downtown Batavia, has taken on the Simply Beautiful, Simply Renewed program, which has been enhanced to include pampering beauty services in addition to the wigs program. 

“We've been there about six years, and our heart is all about just showing love in our community and being there for our people. So it's been really cool to be able to now open a spot and continue to share that love all throughout town. And it's been really awesome to get to start working with Genesee Cancer Assistance and to start providing services to them. I myself am a hair stylist and not a public speaker. So here I am, but I love what I do and being behind the chair, and so it's been such an amazing gift to be able to work with people who are undergoing treatment and help them find a way that fits them perfectly,” Willson said. “So I've just been loving that. It's been really, really cool, and the relationships that we built with those people have just been out of this world. So it's been an odd time for me to take on something new, to be honest, because I am quite busy in my businesses, but it has been such a beautiful piece of giving back too, and just like giving me so much more energy for everything that I'm doing. So I'm just grateful for the opportunity to be here with you.” 

The program began with wigs, however, since she opened the spa in July, “we decided it would be a great addition to add in more services, because sometimes you might be totally comfortable without your hair.”

“And we're finding that a lot of people are really happy like that, which brings me a lot of joy too, that it's like I can help them in restoring now, so we can talk about products and helping them to help their scalp and build their health now, as they continue to move through the process, the journey after cancer,” she said. “And so now we're going to be offering services at the spa. So we're going to be doing facials, manicures, pedicures … so it's going to be really rejuvenating and just a good little piece to come in and relax. And that truly is what we're all about, that still remains.”

Underwood said that she has observed over the last couple of years that not everyone loses hair during treatment, which makes these spa services more inclusive for patients no matter what they are experiencing, she said.

“There might be something like that that would interest the patient, that would, as she said, make them feel renewed, relaxed, refreshed. And that piece is very important when you're battling your journey,” Underwood said. “So we're very thankful for Kate.” 

Daquan J. Butler, 28, of Brooklyn, is charged with assault 1st, burglary 1st, criminal possession of a weapon 3rd, and endangering the welfare of a child. Butler is accused of illegally entering a residence on Liberty Street, Batavia, on Aug. 25, 2023, and stabbing an adult male inside the residence. A child was in the house at the time. Butler was located in New York City by U.S. Marshals and returned to Batavia. He was arranged in County Court and jailed.

Asa A. Wooton, 20, of Batavia, is charged with reckless endangerment 2nd, menacing 2nd, criminal possession of. weapon 4th, and criminal mischief 4th. Wooten is accused of threatening another person with a knife and damaging property on Oct. 28 during a fight on Mill Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Devonte T. Griner, 30, of Rochester, is charged with reckless endangerment 2nd, criminal mischief 4th, harassment 1st, and vehicle and traffic charges. Griner is accused of following another vehicle in the city of Batavia on Oct. 28 and using his vehicle to intentionally attempting to run the other vehicle off the road. Griner was located a short time later and taken into custody. He was arraigned and released.

Shquanebin Lone, 38, of Akron, is charged with burglary 2nd, criminal mischief 4th, endangering the welfare of a child, and harassment 2nd. Lone is accused of unlawfully entering a dwelling on Bloomingdale Road, Basom, at 7:42 p.m. on Nov. 3. Lone allegedly committed crimes in the dwelling in the presence of a child. She was held pending arraignment. 

Megan Marie Gray, 22, of Alabama, is charged with trespass. Gray was reportedly barred from Walmart and allegedly entered the store at 2:15 p.m. on Nov. 6. She was released pending arraignment.

Reinaldo Aponte, 60, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon 4th, DWI, unlicensed operation, stopped on a highway, and failure to signal turn. Aponte was stopped by Deputy Jeremy McClellan at 1:59 a.m. on Nov. 3 on West Main Street Road, Batavia. Apointe was arraigned and released.

Thomas Duane Booth, 48, of Conlon Road, Le Roy, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Both allegedly violated an order of protection on Nov. 12 at a location in Le Roy. He was arraigned and was released.

Paul Donald Rich, 63, of Crane Road, Medina, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and moving from lane unsafely. Rich was arrested by Deputy Alexander Hadsall after a vehicle was found on its side  at 8:57 p.m. on Nov. 12 on Knowlesville Road, Alabama. Rich allegedly had a BAC of .17. He received treatment for possible injuries in the accident at ECMC. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

John Alano Dirosa, 44, of South Main Street, Elba, is charged with assault 3rd. Dirosa was charged following an investigation into a fight reported at 9 p.m. on Nov. 12 on Main Street in Elba. 

Keith A. Lowery, 55, of Little Canda Road, Bethany, is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation, five or more suspensions, equipment violation, and dirty/covered plate. Lowery was stopped at 1:01 a.m. on Nov. 14 on Richmond Avenue, Batavia, by Deputy Stephen Smith. Lowery reportedly had four active warrants at the time of the stop.e was held pending arraignment.

Rhiannon Joy Graff, 44, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or higher, driving without insurance, aggravated unlicensed operation, and registration suspended. Graff was stopped at 12:54 a.m. on Nov. 15 on West Main Street, Batavia, by Deputy Mason Schultz. Graff was prossed at the jail and released.

Lakara Denise Johnson, 34, of Dellinger Avenue, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, driving while intoxicated with a child less than 16 in the vehicle, endangering the welfare of a child, and open container. Johnson and a male passenger were reportedly involved in a physical domestic fight in a car while driving back from Rochester at 9:52 p.m. on Nov. 10, with three children in the car. The vehicle was stopped on Seven Springs Road by Deputy Jeremy McClellan.  Johnson was ticketed and released.

Michael Charles Riggi, 54, of Pearl Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Riggi is accused of stealing $40 cash from another person while at Walmart on 3:55 p.m. on Nov. 15. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Trevon L. Armstrong, 39, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant on Oct. 16. Armstrong was initially arrested on a charge of criminal mischief 4th, for allegedly damaging a window on Nov. 16, 2023. The warrant was issued after he allegedly failed to reappear in court. Armstrong was arraigned in and held on bail. 

Justin R. Nadrowski, 32, of Oakfield, is charged with criminal trespass 3rd. Nadrowski is accused of entering the Spirit Halloween store on Oct. 26 at 1:05 a.m. through an unlocked door. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Donald D. Ryan, 41, is charged with petit larceny. Ryan is accused of taking down payment to complete work at a residence on Clifton Avenue but never showing up start the job. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Cori L Cleland, 39, of Perry, is charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs. Cleland was allegedly found unresponsive in her vehicle on Oct. 21. She was issued an appearance ticket.\

Cody A. Bush, 38, of Batavia, is charged with assault 3rd. Bush allegedly injured another person during a fight on East Avenue on Oct. 18. He was arrested on Oct. 26 and issued an appearance ticket.

Brant G. Matthews, 30, of Le Roy, was arrested on Oct. 26 on three warrants. Matthews allegedly failed to appear in court on three separate criminal cases. He was arraigned and released.

Thomas J. Mitchell, 35, of Batavia, is charged with resisting arrest and obstructing governmental administration. Mitchell is accused of running from police when they attempted to detain him on Oct. 20 in connection with a separate incident. He was issued an appearance ticket.

The Byron-Bergen Bees are state champions in Girls Soccer for the first time in program history after a 1-0 overtime win against Stillwater.

Mia Gray scored the winning goal 32 seconds into overtime. Libby Starowitz had the assist.

The Bees came into the tournament as the #3 seed and beat the defending champions, the #1 seed.

Natalie Prinzi was named the NYS Outstanding Goalkeeper and Mia Gray won the Most Valuable Player award. 

Photos by Jennifer DiQuattro

Press Release:

On November 22 at 6 p.m., the 24th Annual Wonderland of Trees at the Holland Land Office Museum (HLOM) will officially kick off with our opening gala! Come view over 30 community trees and some amazing decorations! You will not want to miss out on all the amazing decorations, basket raffle, community atmosphere, and so much more! 

The DSP Jazz Trio will provide the music and food will be provided by Batavia's Original Pizzeria and The Alabama Hotel, along with desserts from A Sweet Ending Bakery! 

Tickets are $20, $15 for museum members, and $5 for children 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased through the museum’s website hollandlandoffice.com or at the museum.

Press Release:

Rochester Regional Health (RRH) is proud to announce its inclusion in Becker’s Hospital Review’s esteemed list of the nation's Top 100 Health Systems with Outstanding Oncology Programs. 

This recognition highlights the exceptional work of the Lipson Cancer Institute and its dedication to providing top-tier, patient-centered cancer care. The list recognizes institutions which have “garnered national acclaim for advancing cancer care via their cutting-edge clinical trials and life-changing research.”

Becker's Hospital Review, a leading source of business and legal information for healthcare industry leaders, evaluates hospitals and health systems based on their cancer care services, patient outcomes and overall excellence. Organizations cannot pay to be featured on this list, making this recognition a true testament to the quality of oncology care provided by Rochester Regional Health.

“This recognition of the quality of cancer care being provided by the Lipson Cancer Institute is just one more example where Rochester Regional Health is distinguishing itself as a leader in healthcare in our community, our state and across the nation,” said Richard “Chip” Davis, PhD, CEO of Rochester Regional Health. “Our team’s dedication and expertise make us a leader in oncology, and we are grateful that they go above and beyond to ensure that our patients and their families receive the best care possible.”

This recognition by Becker’s comes on the heels of another recent accreditation for Rochester Regional Health. In August, the Lipson Cancer Institute received a three-year full accreditation as a Network Cancer Program from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. This accolade distinguishes Rochester General and Unity Hospitals as the only network of cancer centers in upstate New York granted this honor.

“Lipson Cancer Institute is proud to have met the rigorous guidelines required by the American College of Surgeons to achieve this prestigious accreditation,” said Prad Phatak MD, Executive Medical Director of Oncology at RRH. “This honor underscores the work of our multidisciplinary oncology teams who tirelessly provide gold-standard cancer care for our patients while understanding that treatment extends far beyond the physical to include mental and emotional health as well.”

These recognitions by Becker’s and The American College of Surgeons continue to shine the spotlight on Rochester Regional Health and the Lipson Cancer Institute as a beacon of excellence in cancer care, reinforcing the clinical expertise and dedication our clinicians and team members demonstrate every day.

By Connor Beagle

It seems like deja vu for former Oakfield-Alabama Cross Country star Zachary Hall, as the now Roberts Wesleyan Senior Cross Country runner cruised to an East Coast Conference (ECC) title.

Former Oakfield-Alabama standout Cross Country and Track & Field runner Zachary Hall had an interesting start to his running career. Hall had seen plenty of success early and often on the track, claiming multiple sectional championships and racing at the 2019 NY State Outdoor Track & Field Championships, but struggled to reach the mountain top when it came to Cross Country. As a high school Senior, Hall’s goal was to win a Cross Country sectional championship. Hall had watched two of his teammates win the title he wanted so badly in the two years leading up to his Senior season. He was hungry to come out on top at the 2020 Class DI Sectional Championships and he did just that on his home course with a time of 16:50.

After a successful Senior season at Oakfield-Alabama, Hall would look to continue his success on the trails at the collegiate level. Hall committed to the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) where he would run the 2021 Cross Country season for the Tigers. 

However, it did not take long for Hall to realize he did not want to be an engineer. After talking with former high school teammate and now Roberts Wesleyan alumni Karly Smith, Hall decided to transfer and enroll at Roberts that January. Hall would join many familiar faces on campus and make plenty of new friends, even meeting his fiancé.

At Roberts, Hall would lace up his spikes yet again and race for the Redhawks. For the Redhawks, Hall found his stride as a Sophomore, finishing 4th at the ECC Cross Country Championships. Heading into his Junior season however, Hall had goals for the track, as he wanted to break the 15-min mark in the 5000 meter run. 

After being very close to going sub-15 in the 2022-23 Track & Field season, Hall wanted to join his four teammates Lee Sortore, Blake Kasper, Owen White, and Jackson Doran as a member of the exclusive sub-15 min 5K club. Heading into the 2023-24 season Hall seemed prime to do just that. At the 2023 ECC Cross Country Championships Hall finished 5th overall and helped the Redhawks clinch their ninth straight conference championship. 

Throughout the Indoor season Hall would be very close to eclipsing sub-15, but would fall short. Hall would go on to win the 5K conference title for the indoor season and was eager to see results come during outdoor.

Hall would start off the outdoor season at the Redhawk Invitational on his home track with teammate Blake Kasper pacing him, only to finish with a time of 15:08 and face plenty of disappointment. After that race Hall had lots of time to prepare for his next 5K which would come during the Bison Outdoor Classic at Bucknell University. 

Hall’s moment came and it was no disappointment, as he cruised to a 14:47 finish in the 5K alongside all of his teammates. Hall would go on to improve upon that time during the Harrison Dillard Twilight at Baldwin-Wallace University, running a 14:46 and would also go on to win the 5K conference title for the outdoor season as well.

Press Release:

Natalie Malick’s 3rd through 5th-grade students have relaunched the Byron-Bergen Elementary School beverage service. Formally known as the Coffee Cart, the students renamed the program Busy Bee Cafe and created a new logo, menu, and loyalty program cards.

“The idea for the rebrand really started with the students,” said Malick, a 12:1:1 Teacher at Byron-Bergen Elementary School.

Busy Bee Cafe is more than a beverage service. Students learn small business skills such as money management, inventory, ordering, and comparison shopping.

“I like the money part,” said a participating student. “They give me one dollar, and I give them fifty cents back.”

“One of the great aspects of this project is that the kids work toward short-term and long-term goals,” said Malick. “They need to get the service ready for Friday, but they also need to plan for every additional Friday this year.”

Busy Bee Cafe is a stationary self-serve beverage counter outside of Malick’s classroom. Previously a morning service, the cafe now opens at 11 a.m. every Friday and offers a wider variety of beverages including sparkling flavored waters.

“Mrs. Malick and Mrs. Ladley do a great job working with students to put all of this together,” said Byron-Bergen Elementary Principal Kristin Loftus. “It is a wonderful lesson in all the pieces that are necessary for starting and running a business! What better way to help students understand why learning math, reading, and problem-solving in school is so important.”

All proceeds from Busy Bee Cafe are put toward the continuation of the program.

Press Release:

We’ve Only Just Begun” Sr. Luncheon, the theme this month is  HONORING OUR VETERANS. It will be held on Tuesday, November 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the South Alabama Firehall, Route 63 (2230 Judge Road, Oakfield). 

We will be starting lunch promptly at 11:45 a.m.  We are open to the public and welcome all!  

Our speaker this  month will be  William Joyce, Director of our Genesee County Veterans Service Agency. He will be talking about the  new Western New York National Cemetery located in Indian Falls, NY as well as all the services they offer to  our Veterans. All Veterans are invited to attend our luncheon. We are open to the public and welcome all.  

You won’t want to miss this informative program this month! Bring your favorite dish to pass OR make a donation at the door! Come and enjoy lunch and an afternoon of fun with old and new friends. 

We will also be taking paid reservations for our Annual Christmas Luncheon, on December 10. We moved it up a week because so close to Christmas! It will be catered by the Alabama Hotel for $15 per person. 

All Reservations must be paid in advance and received by December 1. Please contact LaNora Thompson at 630-888-8966, mail checks to LaNora Thompson, 3611 Batavia Oakfield Twnln Rd, Oakfield, or pay in person at the November luncheon. You must have a reservation paid in advance!

Press Release:

Each year, on November 20, people worldwide take time to remember those lost to anti-transgender violence. This year, Batavia will host GLOW OUT!’s annual vigil and ceremony - and add a community meal to the program – for the event’s 25th anniversary.

“We hosted four last year, one in each of the GLOW counties,” said Sara Vacin, GLOW OUT! Executive Director. “This year we’re holding an art exhibition after the vigil, and a meal to honor and celebrate our trans elders.”

This year’s vigil will begin at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, November 20, at the Old Courthouse at 7 Main Street in Batavia. A free meal of turkey, potatoes, vegetables, and dessert will be served in the Church fellowship hall (300 East Main) at 7 p.m. This space will also host a display of art submitted in remembrance and support of transgender and nonbinary people.

Broadly, the word “transgender” means anyone whose gender identity or expression is outside of societal norms, while “nonbinary” means a person who does not identify with either male or female – or may experience fluidity in that regard. Some transgender or nonbinary people might take medications or have surgeries to affirm their gender; others might not. 

In the US, transgender and nonbinary people are bullied, homeless, incarcerated, and targets of violence at much higher rates than their cisgender (non-trans) peers. These experiences contribute to the additional truth that transgender and nonbinary people are more likely to consider, attempt, and complete suicide than cisgender people.

But the event – and transgender advocacy in general – is about more than mourning.

“It’s important for us to support and celebrate and love our trans siblings and friends while they’re alive,” Vacin said. “We can give people their flowers now!”

First observed in 1999, the International Transgender Day of Remembrance began after Rita Hester, a Black transgender woman, was killed in her Boston apartment. Annually, the remembrance ceremony is held in acknowledgment of the friends and loved ones taken by anti-transgender violence. As transphobia intersects with sexism and racism, a large proportion of victims (every single year) are trans women of color - specifically, Black and Latina. Rita Hester’s murder remains unsolved.

Wednesday’s event is in partnership with SUNY Brockport’s Pride Association, and will include prepared remarks and a list of those lost to anti-transgender violence in the US since November 2023, the period recognized for the International Transgender Day of Remembrance.

As of this writing, 28 transgender or nonbinary Americans have been killed since last November. While this is a decrease from last year (32), and following a thankfully downward trend (51 in 2021; 41 in 2022), many official lists are incomplete because of the misreporting and underreporting of these crimes. 

Some have been disrespected in death by using their “dead name”, the name they were assigned at birth. As we all know, one person lost to hateful violence is too many. 

“This event is to remember those lost, yes,” said Vacin, “but it’s also to come together in love and support of those we are still fighting for – and will continue to, every day.” 

The vigil begins at 6 p.m. on Wednesday November 20 at the old Batavia Courthouse.

Press Release:

National Home Care & Hospice Month, which was created by Jimmy Carter in 1978, is a month-long celebration that recognizes healthcare professionals who provide care wherever the patient calls home.

HomeCare & Hospice, which proudly serves Cattaraugus, Allegany, Genesee and Wyoming counties, will be taking the time to celebrate their administrators, clinical staff, volunteers, personal care aides and home health aides.

“We have amazing staff who truly provide the best care to our communities,” said Melissa Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer. “We are looking forward to showing our staff even more appreciation throughout the month.”

Special recognition dates are celebrated nationally throughout the month including Home Health Week November 18 - 22.

During Hospice Month in November, local libraries in Arcade, Olean, Wellsville, and Batavia will feature special Hospice displays. These displays will include books from the libraries' own collections, along with informational materials provided by HomeCare & Hospice. Stop by and learn more about hospice care and the valuable resources available to support patients and families.

National Home Care & Hospice Month is a great time to become a volunteer with the organization. HomeCare & Hospice is seeking caring individuals in Allegany, Cattaraugus, Genesee or Wyoming counties who would be interested in becoming hospice volunteers. 

Both patients and their families not only require the help of the medical, aide, spiritual, and social work team provided by HomeCare & Hospice, but also need the support and respite that can be carried out by compassionate members of the community. If you or someone you know is interested in volunteer opportunities, please contact Pat Meek at 585-343-7596.

When facing the challenges of a serious illness, it’s important to remember that the right support can make all the difference. Hospice care focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life, ensuring that patients and families are never alone on this journey. Don’t wait until the situation feels overwhelming—call now to explore how hospice can help. Anyone can make the first call to hospice—whether it's a doctor, nurse, discharge planner, friend, family member, or the patient. 

Reach out today and discover how we can support you during life’s most difficult times. For more information on services available, please call 585-343-7596. For more information on the history of HomeCare & Hospice, please visit https://homecare-hospice.org/about/.

The Byron-Bergen Bees won its state championship semifinal against Burke Catholic on Saturday, 4-0.

The Bees play for the state championship on Sunday against Stillwater High School.

Byron-Bergen jumped to an early lead with a goal at 1:20 into the game. Riley Shallenberger scored on an assist from Mia Gray.

Bee's goalie Natalie Prinzi saved a penalty kick with 29:39 left in the first half.

Mia Gray scored the Bees' second goal with 25:00 minutes left in the first half.  Grace DiQuattro scored a goal 41 seconds later on an assist from Libby Starowitz.  

In the second half, Mia Gray scored the Bee's final goal, assisted by Grace DiQuattro, with 12:42 left in the game. 

Megan Jarkiewicz was awarded The Sportsmanship Award.

Photos by Jennifer DiQuattro.

The Batavia Blue Devils lost in its quest for a sectional title on Saturday at SUNY Brockport to Eastridge, 28-14.

It was Batavia's first loss of the season.

Stats: 

• Bronx Bucholz, 16-31 passing for 184 yards and a TD.  He had two interceptions. On the ground, he gained 64 yards and scored a touchdown.
• Carter Mullen, five receptions for 72 yards. He also had an interception.
• Lakoda Mruczek, seven catches for 55 yards.
• Justin Smith, three receptions, 48 yards and a TD.
• Brock Bigsby, 11 tackles
• Karvel Martino, six tackles and a sack.

Also on Saturday, East Rochester/Gananda beat Le Roy/Cal-Mum 26-13. Jack Egeling  rushed for 108 yards on 20 carries. Brady McClurg ran for 27 yards and TD on seven carries. Connor Elmore scored on a 10-yard run. DJ O'Geen had eight tackles.

Photos by Debra Reilly.

The Pembroke Dragons claimed its third straight Section V 8-Man Football title on Friday, beating the Holley-Lyndonville Hawks 52-16.

The Dragons are now 10-0 on the season.

Caleb Felski ran for 325 yards on 16 carries. He scored five touchdowns. 

Also scoring were Josh Von Kramer and Caleb Kimmel. 

Defensively, the Dragons were led by Jacob Johnson, who had a team-high 11 tackles. Landen Santini and Vijay Dhanda each snagged interceptions. 

The Dragons will face the Frewsburg Bears out of Section 6 for the Far West Regional on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Press Release:

Nominator Tim Hens LG ’01 said, “Almost everyone around knows Matt Gray, he is an entrepreneur, family man and all-around supporter of life in Genesee County. They also know how much he has done for Genesee County, and I’m thrilled he has been named Leadership Genesee 2024 Outstanding Alumnus.”

Matt was very active with Leadership Genesee right after his graduation, participating in many design teams and activities, but has dialed back in recent years. Leadership Genesee was his first experience with defining Servant Leadership. He entered the class of 2011 looking for learning and networking opportunities and graduated from the program with a deeper understanding of himself, his family and friends and most certainly, the community around him. 

Matt shared, “Leadership Genesee was the first place that he realized we have an obligation and opportunity to positively affect the lives of those around us, to serve others.”

He believes we have a unique opportunity for our individual efforts to have a great impact on our surroundings. Small efforts can have big gains in a small community. Joining others with the same vision and goals is rewarding and fun.

He has not lost his passion for LG as he continually supports and donates to the organization through his many community ventures. While Matt has not been as directly involved with Leadership Genesee lately, it is only because he is engaged in every other organization that you can imagine. He spends his entire time making life better for the residents of Batavia and Genesee County.

Leadership Genesee is networking gone wild. Matt shares, “Most all the experiences that I have had in my professional life since graduating, can be traced back one way or another to LG. Connections are. made, conversations are had, and opportunities open.”

LG Director Peggy Marone shared, “I am over the moon happy for Matty. His involvement in Leadership Genesee as an organization helped map our future. His leadership and visionary thinking have improved our community in hundreds of ways, and he puts his ideas into positive collaborative action. After his conversations with Jonathan Mager LG ’12, the idea of Eli Fish Brewing Company was born.”

Matt’s community involvement includes being Vice-Chair of the Genesee County Economic Development Center Board of Directors, Leadership Committee for the Wings Over Batavia Air Show, City of Batavia Planning and Development Committee member, City of Batavia Community Garden Board President, and Genesee Amateur Hockey Association.

One of his greatest passions is economic development. Matt walks the walk in this area running several successful restaurants including Alex’s Place, Eli Fish Brewing Co., Matty’s Pizza, and revitalizing the David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena as General Manager.

Matt is making Genesee County so much better in so many ways as Leadership Genesee provided him with opportunities to learn about the inner workings of government, industry, and charitable organizations in our county as well as friendships that will last a lifetime. 

“If you like being challenged and are willing to be open-minded and engaged, Leadership Genesee is for you” Matt said.

Additional community involvement includes: GCEDC Employment and Compensation Committee – Chair; Genesee County Funding Corporation – Vice Chair; Batavia Development Corporation Loan Committee; Genesee County Chamber of Commerce Place Branding Committee; GCEDC Housing Committee; BDC Housing Committee; City of Batavia Opportunity Area Committee; City of Batavia Zoning Update Committee; Batavia Ramparts Hockey Coach; Batavia Ramparts Coaching Committee.

Past involvements include GCEDC Audit & Finance Committee; City of Batavia Planning & Development Committee; City of Batavia Downtown Revitalization Initiative Committee; City of Batavia Comprehensive Plan Committee; Vice Chair; Leadership Genesee Steering & Curriculum Committees. 

Matt and his wife, Jen Gray LG ’15 live in Batavia with their two children: Leo 17 and Lilly 15.

Press Release:

This holiday season, Ashley Bringenberg Photography invites families to create lasting holiday memories while supporting a cherished local cause. 

Limited-edition holiday portrait sessions will be held from November 16-24, with a $99 session fee that includes a holiday-themed portrait session and a custom keepsake ornament. 100% of session fees will be donated to Crossroads House, Batavia’s comfort care home serving Genesee, Wyoming, and nearby counties.

“A holiday portrait captures a special moment in time, and knowing it also supports Crossroads House makes it that much more meaningful,” says Ashley Bringenberg, owner of Ashley Bringenberg Photography. “Our goal is to raise $1,000 to help fund a new stair lift, so Crossroads House volunteers can safely access all areas of the home as they continue their compassionate work.”

Funds from the Making Spirits Bright campaign will support the purchase of a stair lift, enhancing accessibility for Crossroads House’s dedicated volunteers who help provide essential end-of-life care. In addition to the session and ornament, participants can also invest in custom wall art and keepsakes to celebrate their holiday memories.

To book a holiday portrait session or learn more, please visit ashleybringenberg.com/holiday.

Press Release:

Conservation students at the Genesee Valley BOCES Batavia Career and Technical Education Center recently took part in an intensive STOP THE BLEED training program led by Mercy Flight. This nationally acclaimed campaign, developed by the American College of Surgeons, empowers individuals to respond quickly and effectively to bleeding emergencies until first responders arrive. 

Through hands-on sessions, these students learned essential skills that equip them to manage injuries in situations where immediate help may not be available—a key competency given the nature of their fieldwork, which involves operating heavy machinery like chainsaws.

The training, facilitated by Mercy Flight and attended by 35 conservation students, introduced practical, life-saving techniques including wound packing, direct pressure application, and tourniquet use. These skills are crucial not only within the classroom but also beyond it, where many of these students spend time in remote or rural areas, hunting, farming, or working in challenging outdoor environments. The STOP THE BLEED program provided them with tools they can use anywhere to help save lives.

“The safety and preparedness of our students are top priorities here at Genesee Valley BOCES,” stated Rachel Slobert, Principal of the Batavia Campus. “This training prepares our students for real-life situations, whether in the workplace or beyond, and strengthens their confidence in responding to emergencies. Partnering with Mercy Flight allows us to provide this invaluable training.”

Mercy Flight instructor Terry Thompson led the sessions, starting with a comprehensive presentation that included videos, slides, and a Q&A segment. Thompson also shared impactful real-life stories that underscored the importance of prompt action in emergencies. Following the presentation, students moved into hands-on exercises, learning each step of the STOP THE BLEED process. They practiced wound-packing, applying pressure, and using tourniquets.

Jerry Krajna, the conservation teacher at GV BOCES, stressed the need for safety preparedness within the program. He reviewed the location and usage of all safety supplies, including gloves and STOP THE BLEED kits, to ensure students know how to access and use these tools in an emergency. He also emphasized the importance of the walkie-talkie system used when students work outdoors, ensuring they can quickly call for help if needed.

Mercy Flight recently received a grant from the BJ’s Charitable Foundation for the purchase of additional STOP THE BLEED training kits. With these new resources, Mercy Flight is able to provide more sessions within the community, broadening the availability of emergency training for students and staff alike. Pamela Cherry, a representative from Mercy Flight, was present throughout the training, supporting students and emphasizing Mercy Flight’s commitment to community emergency preparedness.

Krajna emphasized that these skills benefit not only the students but also strengthen the community’s overall ability to respond in a crisis. He expressed pride in equipping students with the knowledge needed to act quickly and effectively when every second counts, highlighting the vital importance of this training.

Submitted photos.

When conductor Shade Zajac discovered the piece “From the Diary of Anne Frank” by American composer Michael Tilson Thomas, who was already “a big hero of mine,” he says, he also thought of his sister Gemini, a freelance actor and vocalist who could embrace the emotional importance of the work.

That was during the pandemic, and Gemini lives in Philadelphia, so it took some time for this concert to come together for Genesee Symphony Orchestra. 

“I was just struck by what a great piece of music it is. So of course, two years go by and everything worked out that we could do it this season. I think people will have a bit of an idea what the piece might be, just because we know how her story ends, unfortunately, which is tragically. But the remarkable thing about the piece and about her writing, and all of the text comes from her diary, obviously, is that how optimistically and how hopeful she views not only the world, but people,” Zajac said during an interview with The Batavian. “One of the most striking lines is towards the end she writes, I'm paraphrasing here, but deep down, I truly believe that people are good at heart, which is incredible, that this 13-year-old girl hiding in an attic while people are disappearing or being shot or, all this kind of horrible stuff that's going around, that she can still be so optimistic and have such a view of, not just the world, but of people.”

Genesee Symphony Orchestra’s program is to begin at 6:30 p.m. with a pre-concert chat/lecture followed by the concert at 7 p.m. Saturday at Stuart Steiner Theatre, Genesee Community College, 1 College Road, Batavia.

Anne Frank was a teenager caught up in the horror of the holocaust, and she began to write in a diary two days after her birthday on June 14, 1942. She documented her life in hiding amid Nazi persecution during the German occupation of the Netherlands. She died in February 1945.

“Even after they were discovered and she was sent away to the camp at first she was still in a good mood. There were other children, there were people that she could be with. It was only right up to the very end. And she talks an awful lot about being in nature, that she wants nothing more than to stick her head out of the window and breathe the air and listen to the birds and all this,” Zajac said. “And it's this love of nature that connects the second half of the program, which is the Beethoven “Pastoral” Symphony, which is all about nature, being in nature, and having nature be a safe haven, having it be a cure for feeling depressed or dejected, or an escape from all the terrible things.”

The first half features the orchestra as a strong backdrop to Gemini’s reading Anne Frank’s words from the diary. There are somber moments accentuated with heavier strings offset with fluttering woodwinds, and long paused notes held to emphasize points throughout the essay.

The program also includes Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 in F Major “Pastoral,” one of those lengthy classical numbers that is pretty, flowing, and if you close your eyes — possibly conjures visions of someone running about in a field with butterflies or perhaps watching clouds floating overhead.

There’s a connection between Anne Frank and Beethoven, Zajac said, and it’s one of isolation. While Anne’s was forced upon her by being captured, Beethoven’s was self-imposed due to his embarrassment at being deaf and unable to hear and understand most conversations. Throughout both stories, there’s a message about “just finding hope in really terrible times,” he said.

Zajac hopes that the audience can glean some of the overall contemplative essence that while we can celebrate a Thanksgiving in the end, it came with steep cost and some have paid dearly. It’s a heavy program, he said, but a thought-provoking one that features a little food for thought to this concert menu. 

This is a third visit to perform with GSO for Gemini (pronounced Gemin-ee), who has her bachelor’s in fine arts from University of Buffalo and performs with Sesame Place in Philadelphia. Similar to her brother, she grew up with creative interests, realizing early on that it was more than a passing whim.  

“I just kind of remember one show I was in in high school and I didn’t get the part that I wanted, and I remember being back stage during one of the performances, going ‘it’s not the part that I wanted, but if I’m going to pursue theater, then I have to be ok with getting parts that I don’t want, because that’s part of the lifestyle.’ And it was at that moment where I was like, oh I’m thinking about pursuing my career in theater,” she said. “So it was that moment where it was, I guess, the deciding factor. I’ve always enjoyed doing just kind of anything creative, and that’s just what’s pulled me most.”

When Shade talked to her about doing the Anne Frank piece, he felt confident about it being a role for her, one that she could breathe life into. 

She quickly agreed that it was quite an emotional piece.

“Incredibly. I know I talked about it on my little video on Instagram and the Facebook page, how I talked about that a lot of people don't feel safe and seen in this world. And that's a lot of what this piece talks about, in as much as finding the hope," the 26-year-old said. "But it's one of those things that I know lots of people personally who experience those fears and those things throughout the world, just because of who they are and their differences, and it just breaks my heart, that they have to go through things like that and they don't feel safe or welcomed in certain areas. And when I'm reading this piece, it just makes me think how how they're feeling, and how awful it is that they are feeling this, experiencing this.

“But also with that idea that these people that I know, they're still hopeful, they still see the good in people, and they're still fighting for, you know, their place in this world," she said. "And I think that's the part that really gets me, is that no matter what, there always is that hope and that drive to find your place.”

She has been rehearsing with a recording while being out of state, and described the music as having “moments where it gets very beautiful and light, and whimsical.”

“But there's also moments that are very haunting, and that contrast is it keeps the listener very engaged, because it kind of flows one way and then the other from that beauty and that fear,” she said. “It’s a very emotional piece, and I hope that people, they feel that emotion, not necessarily the emotion that I'm feeling on stage, from narrating and from the words, but the feeling of the music and what they take away personally.

“I really hope that people will get that same feeling of, people go through this, they're still going through this, and that's horrible, that people are still going through these kinds of fears and emotions,” she said. “But there’s always that hope, and I think that what people really should take away is that treating people with kindness, respect and equality is so important now more than ever, and to continue to do that.”

Tickets are $17 adults, $12 seniors, and free for students with a student ID, and are available at Mr. Wine & Liquor, GO ART!, YNGodess, The Coffee Press, Holland Land Office Museum, Gillan Grant and at www.geneseesymphony.com.

Photos by Howard Owens.

The two sides in Stafford v. Pontillo seem as far apart as ever after the attorney for James Pontillo, owner of the former Odd Fellows Hall at 6177 Main Road, issued a statement this week that is flatly contradicted by the attorney for the town of Stafford.

In a statement, Pontillo's attorney, Chris Hummel, said, "The town of Stafford brought a claim for 'abandonment' as well as a laundry list of claimed code violations back in May 2024. Now that the matter has been vetted and challenged by Mr. Pontillo and his legal team, the only thing that appears to be abandoned is the 'abandonment' claim itself. The town has sought to seize ownership and possibly demolish Mr. Pontillo's property for what now appears to be a few petty code violations, at worse. The property was never abandoned. It is a vacant commercial structure that is sealed and protected and often tended to.  Mr. Pontillo has dutifully paid all of his real property taxes on the property."

David Roach, attorney for the town, responded, "Mr. Pontillo's press release is a hodgepodge of objectively verifiable lies and contextually misplaced statements.  Anyone who can read the Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code and observe the condition of Mr. Pontillo's building, inside and out, will arrive at that conclusion."

Pontillo and the town have been at odds over the building, which Hummel, in his statement, acknowledges is historic, since Pontillo acquired it at auction from Terry Platt in 2010. While Pontillo has expressed big plans for the building, including opening a pizzeria, for which he's already installed ovens and other kitchen equipment, none of these plans have come to fruition. 

He's never acquired a building permit, except for a new roof, to carry through renovation efforts and has been reportedly told, according to public documents acquired by The Batavian, that before he can get a building permit, he must submit stamped, engineered architectural plans. He has never submitted such plans. 

Documents reveal that the town has reviewed the consequences of ownership of the building falling to the town and were advised by a former town attorney that either demolition or restoration would be exceptionally costly. 

In his statement, Hummel makes other claims that Roach's statement quoted above indicates he believes are false.

• That in 2016 the town hired its own engineer who inspected the property and gave the building a "clean bill of health." And Then two weeks later, a member of the same firm, whom Pontillo says was never in the building, later retracted the first letter and recommended legal action against Pontillo.
• That Pontillo provided two separate engineer reports to the court that state "without reservation" that the building is "basically" safe and structurally sound. "Of about 14 of the alleged code violations in the town's complaint, perhaps two of them have merit."

Hummell states, "The town has hunted down Mr. Pontillo for eight years, and the preset situation involves perhaps a couple of broken windows, some peeling paint, and a canopy/awning repair."

On Friday, Roach told The Batavian the issues to be resolved are more serious than Hummel indicates.

"There is no resolution to this case yet," Roach said. "The Town is trying to work with Mr. Pontillo on his three-pronged proposal:  (1) the building will remain vacant and unsafe for occupancy due to ongoing code violations; (2) Mr. Pontillo will replace deteriorated and thus unsafe structural members so as to reduce the risk of collapse; and (3) exterior work will be performed to protect the building from the elements and eliminate the conditions that currently render it a blight, all in accordance with sections under the Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code."