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By 5:45 p.m. Friday, the dense heat was broken up by intermittent breezes, which provided some cool comfort for a group of students in the back of Le Roy Junior-Senior High School.

They weren’t playing baseball or having a picnic, or goofing around at all. Students and music teachers were at the tail end of a three-hour practice in prep for Saturday’s Genesee-Wyoming Music Educators Association All-County chorus and band concerts. The band room doors were wide open, leaking out a steady rhythm of brass, woodwinds and percussion.

This is Kiptyn Cone’s first all-county event, and he’s enjoying it, he said. His favorite performance piece is “Metal Heads,” which, as the name implies, features a lot of heavy metal style and metal sounds, including cowbells and brake drums. A fifth-grader from Le Roy, Kiptyn is a percussionist who really appreciates the full drum set.

“With all the toms and the snare drum and bass drum with the foot pedal and high hat and splendid cymbal,” he said during a quick break.

The 10-year-old is following in his older brother’s footsteps, but he also believes the drums have an important role in a band.

“They’re keeping the beat, kind of the rest of the band depends on the percussion, the drums in particular. And because we’re the ones like, boom, boom, boom, keeping the beat so they know what to follow,” he said, sharing how he feels about Saturday’s concert. “I’m actually not feeling nervous. I feel pretty prepared. I feel like I know my stuff.”

Kiptyn is far from alone in this being his first all-county music festival. With COVID-19 and the shutdown of schools and most everything, the festival was swept up in that as well. Kids missed out on those opportunities for four years.

Dan Klinczar, vice president of the GW Music Educators Association, is not even sure if 10th graders ever had the chance to participate in all-county. The festival involves all school districts in Genesee County, plus Attica from Wyoming County.

“So for most of the students and all the junior high, and all of the elementary, this is their first all-county experience. So they get to work with a guest conductor, and they get to work for a long time. It's a long practice. So it's a really good opportunity for them to make music with other really strong and dedicated musicians across the county, which is the really cool thing,” Klinczar said. “That's the pinnacle of what musicians want to do -- make music with others. “It’s getting together today and tomorrow before the concert. They'll rehearse tomorrow from nine to 1:30 back in the same spot before they do a concert.

"And like I said, it’s a culminating event for them, you know, and this is supposed to be a mountain experience for kids because it's the opportunity for them to make music with others, and see that people across the county and outside of their small little niche of their own school who can make music and have fun together," he said. "And we’ll be awarding a couple of awards tomorrow. “

The John Mikalski Memorial Career Scholarship will be presented to seniors Evan Williams and Jackson Cain, both of Le Roy.

At 18 and about to graduate, Cain is debating which college to attend. It’s an 80-20 split, with Fredonia State College carrying more weight than Nazareth, he said, to pursue a degree in music education. He’s on a career track to teach music and, hopefully, right in his own hometown.

He is eight years older than Kiptyn and every bit as passionate about the percussion section.

“I think, with all the other tonic instruments, like the ones that have the pitches and all that, it's very easy to express yourself. And I liked that. But with something like a snare drum or a drum set, it's more difficult to bring that out. And I think that's really cool that you can, you know, if you hear someone play a snare drum, you're expecting like, oh … military,” he said. “And then if they come out, and they play the solo that's like, oh, wow, I get expression through this, even though it's just one pitch, I still get that story, and I get what is happening. So I think that's really cool. That you can take something almost one dimensional as a snare drum and turn it into something that's like, artistic and beautiful like that.”

He admitted that, at first, he wasn’t looking forward to a three-hour after-school practice. But then there’s something about several strangers coming together to create something brand new together.

“And then just like, instantly, it all comes together, because we're all practiced, and we all know what we're doing. And it's like, wow, it's like, it's just super fun that, off the ground floor, we all have a very strong understanding of the pieces,” he said. “And we really get to hear these, you know, live, and it's like, we get to watch them grow and build, it's really, really cool. I love every bit of it.”

Cain credits music teacher “Mr. N" (Nordhausen), who first taught him in fourth-grade band, has a sense of humor and other similarities that Cain can relate to, and is a fifth and sixth-grade band teacher; and Miss Dotts, “an incredible band teacher” for grades seven through 12.

The future high school graduate also described a pivotal moment that validated what he wanted to do in life. When a band director was out sick, Cain was picked to fill in, and he worked with students in band camp. He taught drumline and how to march, and afterward realized that he helped those kids.

“And even from then on, it's like, it's helped me realize a lot of things about myself, like marching band specifically was one where I realized if I apply myself, I will see the results that I want. If I really work hard, and I really focus on something that, if I'm passionate about it, I'll see the results that I want,” he said. “And then, of course, the no-brainer’s music education, and then, finding that this is a huge passion for me, and I love doing this and … this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. I want to cultivate this experience for other kids.”

Photos by Howard Owens

It's going to be warm outside this weekend so if you need a break from the unseasonable heat, Chamber of Commerce President Brian Cousins has a suggestion -- come on down to the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena for the 2023 Home Show.

"I know it's a great weekend," Cousins said. "The weather this weekend is awesome, which is unheard of in April -- you get 80-degree weather. But you know, the inside of the Ice Arena is a little bit cooler than outside. It's like natural air conditioning in here. So it's very comfortable for people. I'm looking forward to seeing as many people can come out do so to work on their to-do lists."

This is the first home show for Cousins as chamber president, and he's excited to see it off to a good start.  All of the vendor booths are full, and the chamber even had potential vendors trying to sign up for booths on Friday morning.

Admission is $3 for adults, and hours Saturday are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday.

"Make a list," Cousins said, "check it twice when you're out sitting on your deck or something this weekend, then make a quick trip out, spend an hour to get some different ideas and things that you wanted to do over the course of the last two, three years, especially over the COVID time period when you couldn't get somebody to help you out with things."

Photos by Howard Owens

There have been a lot of proclamations handed out this week, and all of them involve important issues, from public health and safety to emergency communications and the rights of crime victims.

However, one of them may tug at the heartstrings just a little bit stronger, and it’s not even because of a dire threat to humanity. At least not physically. But ask any animal lover how important it is to protect the welfare of pets, and it can become an emotional topic rather quickly. In short, most folks would say don’t come between me and Fido, thank you.

Fortunately, there are laws and personnel to ensure those protections, and the Genesee County Legislature acknowledged them with National Animal Care and Control Appreciation Week, which ran this week ending on Saturday.

This week is a way to recognize all officers for the invaluable roles they play in their communities, Legislator Christian Yunker said during the Legislature’s meeting this week.

"It's my honor to present this very underrated but very critically important service that we provide the county, National Animal Care and Control Appreciation Week," he said, reading the proclamation:

 Whereas, national animal control officer Appreciation Week was started by the National Animal Care and Control Association as a way to recognize all officers so  they're invaluable roles they play in the communities and

Whereas, Genesee County dog control officers are compassionate and committed to individuals who serve to protect the animals everyday by enforcing laws pertaining to their treatment.

And whereas, our dog patrol officers are tasked with picking up stray or dangerous animals to ensure the protection of our communities residents in addition to the operation of a county animal shelter, and

Whereas, they exhibit continuous compassion and understanding and professionalism during the performance of their job.

Now therefore be it resolved, the Genesee County Legislature hereby declared a week of April 9 to 15th 2023 National Animal Control Appreciation Week in Genesee County, and takes great pride in honoring the officers whose dedication and professionalism protect the welfare of helpless animals and pets within our county.

 

Catherine Seward is a dog control officer at Genesee County Animal Shelter. She said a few words in response.

“On behalf of myself and Sarah Fountain, the other dog control officer, I want to thank the sheriff and the Sheriff's Department, and all of you volunteers for stray animals, and really, our whole community,” she said. “We're very proud of serving our community and all the good that we're able to do for both the animals and the people that we're helping every day. Thank you.”

Even though the official week is done by Saturday, feel free to show appreciation for those that rescue, clean, feed, treat, care for and protect animals. There’s no time limit on that, and they deserve it.

Photo of county Legislator Christian Yunker, Catherine Seward, and Sheriff William Sheron, by Joanne Beck.

There’s one evening each year that parents enjoy because it highlights the efforts of their children, and that youth and school leaders proudly attend because it’s an opportunity to boast a bit about the talents, kindness, volunteer and myriad other contributions that students have made to their communities.

And finally, it’s an evening that kids can feel good about by being given the spotlight for those who, as Board President Paul Osborn says, “shared the love and compassion with their hearts to benefit others.”

“This community is truly blessed. Our future is bright with the youth you see before you. If you look at the back of your program, you all exemplify these characteristics as an honor to be a part of the youth board and serve with individuals who share a passion for a community, and, most importantly, our youth. Tonight, I am confident we leave here knowing there is hope and promise for the future because of those recognized here,” Osborn said during Thursday’s youth recognition banquet. “So, all those recognized here tonight, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to you and all those who have supported your efforts. I would especially like to acknowledge the parents, the guardians and extended families of the youth recipients. I'm sure you are proud, and rightfully so. But you all need to be commended for providing the guidance and care that has prompted these youth to rise to a level deserving of recognition.

“I would also like to thank the families and spouses and significant others of our adult award recipients for their unselfish willingness to share your loved ones who provide a great service to our youth and community,” he said. “So thank you all for coming and sharing this moment to recognize all the recipients this evening.”

There were 25 youths presented with youth recognition awards. They are:

• Brecken Capone
• Caris Carlson
• Mary Engelhardt
• Katelynn Everett
• Gabrielle Graff
• Mary Grimes
• Lily Haacke
• Aubrey Hamm
• Kaelee Kelso
• Alaina Manges
• Kathryn McClellan
• Arianna McLaughlin
• Maggie Monachino
• Brenna Munn
• Evelyn Northrup
• Cesia Murillo Rios
• Lauren Reimer
• Olivia Walton
• Maia Zerillo

Another six students received Winter Storm Elliott awards for their selfless service to others during that wintry blast and dumped several inches of wind-drifted snow on Genesee County Dec. 22-Dec.25, 2022.

Elba School Superintendent Gretchen Rosales spoke about the winter storm that “I’m sure we all remember with great fondness,” she joked. Of course, that was the long Christmas weekend that began with a bang that forced the city of Batavia and Genesee County to close and then followed by the closure of the Thruway.

“I had six students who gave up their own time, our schools as opened as a warming shelter, and I do believe that it is because of those students in the Elba Fire Department that lives are saved,” Rosales said. “And so this is a profound recognition of those students. When the rest of the community was stranded, these young individuals left the comfort and warmth of their homes to save others’ lives. During the storm, each of them went to the school to provide blankets, serve meals, set up cots for sleeping, kept strangers company, checked on the well-being of others, and even put on movies for children who were spending Christmas away from home.”

She went on to state the other good deeds they do on a regular basis: shoveling out hydrants and plowing driveways and sidewalks, while quietly going about their work.

“When not contending with an epic storm event, these students dedicate between five and 15 hours each week to our fire department to engage in training to respond to calls alongside their adult counterparts. They render first aid to accident victims, fight fires and provide emergency response in medical situations,” Rosales said. “These young adults represent what is good about our youth. They are fine examples for everyone, no matter their age. They are athletes. They have part-time jobs, and they are on the honor roll.”

Perhaps most important to note, is that their bravery and selflessness are “commendable beyond measure,” she said. Rosales then called them up for their awards:

• Ayden Esten
• Garrett Heale
• Emily Hoag
• Abigail Russell
• Joey Schnitzer
• Colton Walczak

Two adults were also recognized for their contributions to youth — Youth Worker of the Year went to Robert “Bob” Swanson, and Volunteer of the Year went to Kathy Zipkin and Tilly, her gentle four-legged sidekick.

SOAR Director Christine spoke about Zipkin’s positive influence on children’s reading work in their city schools. Beyond school work, however, there has been so much gained from the social and emotional connections made through sweet Tilly.

“So in terms of emotional regulation, in terms of support, in terms of compassion and love, and providing that, that calm no judgment zone, we are so grateful to have Kathy as part of our district, and we are so grateful to have Tilly as well — it literally is part of the best part of my week as well,” Merle said. “So we're amazed and appreciative she's willing and able to spend a day and a half each week with our students at Batavia, although the students may come down to see Tilly, their interactions with Kathy are just as important. Her years as a teacher in our district have given her the knowledge, experience and understanding needed to work with our kids and we're very grateful for that.”

Robert Swanson, better known by kids at Agri-Business Child Development as Bob the Builder, has worked there for more than 10 years as a maintenance man, but award presenter Elizabeth Ormsby said, “he’s much more than that.”

“He goes above and beyond his job duties and truly integrates himself into many different areas of the program. He works closely with all the administrators, teachers, children and families. He has become a father figure to many of us workers. I call him my work dad. But he’s a strong male role model for the children in the center as well,” Ormsby said. “Bob remembers all of the children's names and comes in and has conversations with them every day. You know when Bob is in the building because you hear all the children cheering, ‘Bob is here, Bob is here.’ Since he has maintenance, he spends a lot of time fixing things. So many of the children have started to call him Bob the Builder. He will come and read stories to our classrooms. And during the holidays, he likes to dress up festive for the children.

“Bob has also volunteered his time to create, in partnership with families and children, our vegetable garden on our playground. The produce is harvested and given to families or cooked here at our center,” she said. “Anything a family needs, he is there to assist them, whether to blow up a flat tire in the parking lot, helping with moving or donating food. He is such an asset to the team, but especially to our children and our families.”

Osborn also gave well-deserved kudos to an outgoing Youth Board member, for most years serving as president, Jay Lazarony. During his 26-year service on the board, "Jay has been a mainstay in the field of youth services," Osborn said. Known as Mr. Laz by the youth he impacted over the years, Lazarony was not only an idea guy but also helped to bring them to reality, such as by designing a mini park, picking out plants, determining the mulch and size of picnic tables. He developed the GLOW With Your Hands program, and thousands of kids have stretched their potential as a result, Osborn said.

"Our youth have been blessed. Thank you for your time and efforts, and most of all, your love for the youth in the community, Mr. Laz."

Photos by Howard Owens.

An open fire is reported in the backyard at a residence on Edwards Street, Batavia.

It's the second open burn City Fire is responding to tonight.

There's a burn ban in effect until May 14.

UPDATE 10:31 p.m.: Fire is out. The Resident advised the fire was not permitted. City Fire is back in service.

Genesee County Court Judge Melissa Lightcap Cianfrini this afternoon remanded a Town of Alabama man to county jail for at least the next several days while attorneys on both sides look into the circumstances surrounding an alleged burglary on the Tonawanda Indian Reservation.

Isaac D. Abrams, 22, who apparently owns smoke shops and dispensaries on the reservation, was charged by State Police with second-degree attempted burglary, a Class C felony, in connection with an incident at a dispensary on the evening of March 10.

He was arrested on March 30 and subsequently released with non-monetary conditions pending today’s court appearance.

Abrams has been under intensive probation supervision as a result of previous criminal charges, including first-degree burglary of a dwelling, causing injury, a Class B felony, and third-degree assault, a Class A misdemeanor.

During today’s proceedings and in light of the latest charges, Cianfrini pointed out that the probation department has recommended the revocation of Abrams’ IPS status – action supported by Assistant District Attorney Andrew DiPasquale.

At that point, Fred Rarick, who has represented Abrams since 2018, claimed that the charges were “merely allegations” and that his client turned over recordings that will show that “some people have ulterior motives.”

Rarick said that Abrams was invited to mediate a dispute at the business, and that the business owner, Cassi Abrams, “notified state troopers that my client did absolutely nothing wrong.”

“It’s a little bit premature to revoke the IPS,” Rarick said, adding that Abrams has been doing well in mandated drug treatment court.

Cianfrini, however, indicated that Abrams tested positive for marijuana on Thursday, and at that point, asked both lawyers to approach the bench. Following a five-minute discussion – during which Rarick could be heard stating that Abrams was asked to assist in the dispute involving family members – Cianfrini rendered her decision.

“I’m not revoking the interim probation supervision, but these are serious allegations,” she said. “I am remanding you, without bail, at this point (to let the attorneys research this).”

Before being handcuffed and led out of court, Abrams pleaded with the judge to set him free as “I need to get more recordings, please.”

Abrams is scheduled to return to treatment court next Thursday – two days after a scheduled appearance in Alabama Town Court.

Outside the courtroom after adjournment, Rarick said he respected Cianfrini’s decision, “but it’s just very interesting that this allegedly occurred weeks ago and he was just recently arrested.”

“Severe allegations of an armed robbery and he threatened to kill somebody? He did go and talk to the troopers and he explained everything. There are recordings which, when we go to trial, will be brought out to find out what these motivations are.”

Rarick also said there is a co-defendant in the matter.

“We’ll have to talk to his attorney. I don’t know, I wasn’t there,” he said. “There’s a lot going on with Mr. Abrams. He had his dispensary and he had another dispensary that was burned down. His other dispensary was robbed. So, I’m going to be looking into the motivations of these people.”

Concerning the positive test for marijuana, Rarick said that he has been informed that Abrams possesses a medical marijuana card.

“This whole thing is about relations, land disputes and it’s so sad,” he said, noting that cousins are at odds with each other, “Things that are happening on the Reservation. It used to be who gets to have a fuel station and now it’s who gets to have dispensaries there – and there are dispensaries every 50 feet or so.”

Rarick said Abrams was accused of taking money from a safe.

“I do question that when there is an allegation that a gun was involved, why the troopers didn’t go out immediately -- they know where Mr. Abrams is – to find this guy,” he said. “It doesn’t make any sense and I think that will come out in the trial once we get these people under a real oath versus a misdemeanor.”

Previously: Judge gives Tonawanda resident a chance to put his past behind him

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Press Release:

United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes’ Day of Caring is quickly approaching on May 11. Day of Caring is the largest single day of volunteering in the region. Over 5,000 volunteers will be mobilized across six counties, including Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Wayne, and Wyoming.

Volunteers are matched with a local nonprofit agency. Examples of nonprofit volunteer needs include gardening, spring cleanup, and beautification projects.  There are still hundreds of volunteer spots available and agencies to support! Sign up as an individual, or a team with friends, family, or colleagues using the contact information below for a fun-filled day of giving back to the community. 

Looking to volunteer in Genesee County? Contact MarcAnthony Bucci at MarcAnthony.bucci@unitedwayrocflx.org or (585) 242-6449.

 

Alexander Varsity Softball fought back to earn the win after an early push by rival Attica Central in the second inning, where Alexander coughed up 4 runs. 

The early offensive assault by Attica was led by Grace Snyder and Elise Dresesel, who drove in runs in the second. Snyder hit a long ball over the right-field fence.

Alexander carved out 4 runs in the fifth inning to take the lead and didn’t look back behind the strong outing by Madison Boyce (top photo). 

Boyce earned the win for Alexander, allowing only five runs on five hits over seven innings, striking out 12.  Boyce also led Alexander with 2 hits.

“We needed this game bad after an upsetting underperformance yesterday against Lyndonville," said first-year Head Coach John Goodenbury. "Our team is young but talented, so we needed to regroup and redeem ourselves today.  We love to compete against our Attica neighbors, and that will never change. I am extremely proud of the heart and determination of this team.  Now, we focus on Alden at home this Saturday as they have always been a well-coached and strong team.”

Submitted photos and information.

Sheriff's Deputies and Oakfield-Alabama teachers faced off in a charity fundraiser game in the high school gym on Thursday night.

The event was held to help raise money to support the family of Andy Merkel, who died unexpectedly on March 21 at age 38.

Photos by Philip Casper.

The name of the victim of a fatal crash on the Thruway yesterday afternoon has not yet been released by State Police.

Troopers have confirmed one person died in the crash reported at 12:13 p.m. in the area of mile marker 396.6 in the westbound lane.

Two passenger vehicles and a tractor-trailer were involved. According to initial reports, a vehicle rolled over, and a person was ejected.

No other injuries were reported by troopers.

There’s an event coming up for teens with a poster title that may sound a bit deceiving. It asks the question, “Is there something you want to change in Genesee County?”

In talking with lead organizer Cameron Bontrager, a more specific question came to the forefront.

“We’re giving them the tools and going to ask them, ‘what do you want?’” Bontrager said during an interview with The Batavian. “If you pause in grief and ask ‘what do I want?’ something comes to you. Ask yourself, is this nourishing or is this depleting? You don’t have to stay stuck in something.

“It leads to a life you’re excited for, it feels like Christmas morning,” he said. “You feel empowered. This initiative, this is what motivates me. You don’t have to wait for some type of status. It’s right here. And it starts to get magical.”

So back up a minute. The event that he’s organizing is for kids ages 13 to 18 to meet from 3 to 6 p.m. on April 23 at GO ART!, 201 E. Main St., Batavia.

This gathering will also be an opportunity to get together, talk, share your thoughts, feelings, and artwork if you care to create something, and share your vision of the world, your life, and — most importantly — what you’d like your life to be, he said.

Bontrager, who has struggled with depression, is a 2019 Batavia High School graduate who began to study music education with a focus on violin at Fredonia State College before deciding to leave. A versatile musician, he also plays guitar, piano and trumpet.

“I have struggled with this in school. People did their best, but they didn’t give me the tools for life. They filled my head with a lot of knowledge,” he said. “I want to listen to that space inside of other kids … to find out what kind of impact they want to make on this world, to take that and run with that. Give them the tools and access this life they want.”

The Batavian asked why he believes that he can help other kids. Because he has already, he said. He has randomly encountered kids in various situations, including as a musician and member at Batavia First Presbyterian Church, and when it seems appropriate, will engage in conversation.

“I have friends feeling depressed, I was in a place of depression, I wanted to die, I was in a place I wanted to hide away and eat a pizza,” Bontrager said. “I want kids to be able to tell us ‘I want to die.’ We don’t want to die, we just don’t like our current situation.”

He will lead the event gathering and explain that it’s really up to the participants what it will be. They can use the time to just talk, or create art, share poetry, music, plan a community outreach project, and/or more meetings, whatever they decide.

“I want to let them know I feel the same way, it’s never just you, it never is. I try to be as honest as possible,” he said. “My biggest hope is that people can express how sucky it is, and say they need something. My biggest times of growth were when I reached out for help. Your parents may not understand you, they may love you, but not know how to help you.”

He now feels that he’s on a much better path — in connecting with people, sharing his story, helping them find what they need for their own growth, and seeing his gifts come to fruition through others.

“This invitation is to just show up and speak what’s in your heart,” he said. “If you want to create art and talk about it, or if you don’t want to talk, that’s ok too.”

Artwork can be visual, written, performance or musical, and is to tell, express, and communicate what you would like to change. All entrants will be added to a drawing for a $200 gift card and door prizes. The deadline for entries is April 16, submitted to GO ART!, 201 E. Main St., Batavia, NY, 14020.

The group is not based on any religious beliefs or denominations, and all teens 13 to 18 are welcome, he said.

For more information, contact Cameron Bontrager at (585) 343-0505.

Photo of Cameron Bontrager of Batavia in a "welcome" pose in preparation for his youth event on April 23 at GO ART! in Batavia, by Joanne Beck.

No matter how much technology may change, it's the human beings answering the calls that will make a difference. 

Genesee County legislators recognized that fact during its meeting Wednesday as part of National Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Week, which runs through Saturday. 

Legislator Chad Klotzbach read the proclamation presented to Sheriff William Sheron, Director Emregency Services Dispatch Center Frank Riccobono and Dispatcher Shaylene Kilner as representatives of the department.

Emergencies occur all hours of the day and night requiring police, fire or emergency medical services; and when an emergency occurs, the prompt response of these first responders is critical to the protection of life and preservation of property; and

WHEREAS, the safety of our first responders is dependent upon the quality and accuracy of information obtained from citizens who call our Emergency Services Dispatch Center; and

WHEREAS, Public Safety Telecommunicators are the first and most critical contact our citizens have with emergency services; they work 24/7 and have one of the most stressful jobs in America; and

WHEREAS, Public Safety Telecommunicators are the single, vital link for our first responders by monitoring their activities by radio, providing them information, and insuring their safety; and

WHEREAS, our Emergency Services Dispatchers exhibit compassion, understanding and professionalism during the performance of their job. Now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the Genesee County Legislature hereby declare the week of April 9 through 15, 2023 to be National Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Week in Genesee County, and takes great pride in honoring the men and women whose diligence and professionalism keep our county, citizens, and first responders safe.

Riccobono thanked the county Legislature on behalf of the men and women that work at a 911 center.

He also expressed his own appreciation for the proclamation, especially on the heels of some uncompromising days: Winter Storm Elliott’s unrelenting snow, winds and successful efforts during Christmas 2022 weekend to strand hundreds of travelers on Genesee County’s roads; and the unexpected passing of fellow dispatcher Andy Merkel, in March of this year.

“As you can imagine, this has been kind of a rough year for us. Like most county departments were understaffed, which is forcing a lot of overtime, we had this little event back in December called a blizzard which every one of my staff ended up working a part of it,” he said. “And then we went on and we're currently doing a major rehaul of our 911 center. So we're kind of squeezed into the backup center right now.

“And then, as you're aware, we recently lost one of our own, so it's definitely been a very challenging year for us, but we still keep plugging on and we thank you for your support.”

Top Photo: County Legislator Chad Klotzbach reads the proclamation to Frank Riccobono, William Sheron and Shaylene Kilner at the Old County Courthouse Wednesday, and above,  Riccobono says a few words on behalf the men and women who work at a 911 center. Photos by Joanne Beck.

The proposed budget for the Le Roy Central School District for 2023/24 is $30,227,508 in expenditures, and if the district receives the amount of state aid it anticipates, there will be no need to increase the tax levy, according to Superintendent Merritt Holly.

The Board of Education approved the spending plan on Tuesday.   The final levy tally and tax rate will become available after state aid is approved and the district knows exactly how much property values have changed, which will be some time before voters are asked to approve the budget in May.

The district expects to spend nearly $10 million on professional and teacher salaries. That's an increase of $324,906 dollars.  The increase is mostly driven by negotiated salary increases.  Six teachers are being replaced. There will be two new positions in special education, a new half position in elementary literacy, and a half position less in music.

Salaries for K-3 teachers will increase by $61,478, up $27,576 for grades 4-8, and up by $50,266 for grades 7-12.

The superintendent's salary will increase by $6,000, to $179,542.

Salaries for principals and assistants are going down by $33,117 to a total of $387,206.

Fees paid to BOCES are based on prior year charges and the district will pay BOCES $2,612,766, which is $240,930 more than the prior year.

Support staff salaries are up $194,462 to a total of $3,203,908.

The cost of health care is increasing by $53,544 to more than $2.9 million.

Retirement costs are up $53,544 to more than $1.3 million.

Contributions to the capital fund will increase by $563,369 to $663,369.  Contributions to the capital fund pay for small building projects that are eligible for NYS building aid.

Upstate opposition to downstate policies is showing some small signs of success, State Sen. George Borrello told a group of residents at Batavia City Hall on Tuesday.

The residents gathered in Council Chambers for a 'Town Hall Meeting' hosted by Borrello, who represents the reconstituted 57th Senate District, which now includes Genesee County.

On the progress front, Borrello pointed to bail reform.  Gov. Kathy Hochul is backing some changes to the current bail laws in the current proposed budget, Borrello said.

"I can tell you that it's broken, and we're fighting an uphill battle," Borrello said. "We're into the wind every day, but we are making progress. The bottom line is it's up to the people of New York when the majority of people -- three out of four people in New York state, including New York City -- feel that bail reform needs to change. The governor right now she's backpedaling like crazy. She's trying to back herself out of all the promises she made when she was running, when she was down in New York City, abandoning her Western New York values to get re-elected or to get elected for the first time. But when she won by only 1,000 votes, she realized that something's got to change. So I don't have a whole lot of faith in her in many ways, but I think she's at least realizing that she's gonna have to figure out a way to right this ship. Otherwise, she's not going to be around much longer as our governor."

There's also growing opposition to proposals for solar panels and windmills all over the state, Borrello said.

He called the push for solar in the state "nothing but crony capitalism" that is doing more to enrich China than fight climate change.

"Let me tell you something, the proliferation of solar and wind in Upstate New York, this is not about climate change," Borrello said. "This is not about clean energy. It's about money. This is about a bunch of former used car salesmen inundating everybody with these contracts."

Borrello said he is also fighting to protect farms on other fronts, such as opposing changes to the overtime threshold for farm workers.

It's another area where upstate interests are making small progress.  Hochul, he said, is proposing a tax credit for farmers who do wind up paying overtime under the rule changes.

He also said a program that helps direct food from local farms to food banks has been made permanent.

"(Now) farmers can plan for it, and food banks can budget for it," Borrello said.

Upstate opposition to Hochul's housing plans, which reportedly could have forced municipalities to abandon their own zoning ordinance, has led to small changes.  The goal of building more affordable housing will be achieved through incentives rather than penalties, he said.

"I'm still not convinced," Borrello said. "There's still a backdoor way for the state to, essentially, bypass local zoning, local control. It's a bad idea. If you want to make housing more affordable in New York State, make New York State more affordable. That's the best way to do it."

Borrello said most of his colleagues in Albany lack the business experience (he and his wife own multiple small businesses, employing more than 200 people) necessary to help them understand the impact of their decisions on the people of New York.  They're insulated from the effects of those decisions, he said.  And while he's aware of reports of people fleeing the state because of high taxes and overregulation, he plans to stick around and try to make things better for New Yorkers.

"I'm here to stay and fight," he said. "Because this is a great place to be. It's a great place to live. I don't want to leave here. I don't want anyone else to leave here any more. So we're going to continue to fight back. We're gonna continue to push back and be that voice of common sense in Albany."

Photos by Nicholas Serrata.

As the deadly drug fentanyl wreaks havoc in the United States, resulting in more than 100,000 deaths last year according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the use of psychostimulants also continues at an alarming rate.

Nearly one in five overdose deaths involve cocaine, one of a host of drugs (both illegal and legal) that are categorized as psychostimulants. More than 5 million Americans reported cocaine use in 2020, which is almost 2 percent of the population, and an estimated 6 million people misused prescription stimulants, such as amphetamines, in the past year.

The misuse of psychostimulants has spread to all populations in all settings, significantly contributing to the overdose epidemic in the U.S.

Locally, the professionals at Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse have recognized the impact of drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, ecstasy and prescription stimulants (brand names Adderall, Ritalin, etc.), and the nonprofit agency has received funding through the Health Resources and Services Administration Rural Communities Opioid Response Program – Psychostimulant Support.

The grant, $500,000 for three years through July 2025, will allow GCASA to provide treatment and recovery services to those with psychostimulant use disorder along with prevention education strategies to address the condition and to reduce stigma associated with the disease.

Amy Kabel, assistant director of Grants & Projects, has been assigned as the HRSA RCORP-PS project director; Jarett LoCicero, (photo at left), has been hired as the project coordinator, and Lisa Schutt has been appointed as the project’s lead counselor. GCASA is accepting resumes for the prevention educator position and for peer advocate positions attached to the grant.

Already, project leaders have linked to a consortium that includes Genesee County Mental Health, Orleans County Mental Health, Oak Orchard Health and Lake Plains Community Health, and have started a community support group that meets from 2-3 p.m. every Tuesday at the County Building on East Main Street Road, Batavia.

“The program is very person-centered and we focus on connecting people to what they want and need to overcome the disorder and be successful in their recovery,” LoCicero said. “We understand that there is a huge mental health component and are fortunate to be able to partner with the agencies in our consortium.”

LoCicero said the grant opens the door for GCASA to expand its “continuum of care” philosophy that encompasses treatment, recovery, prevention, maintenance, transportation and supportive living programs.

“Psychostimulant use, cocaine and crack cocaine as well as meth, is an ever-increasing problem, especially among young people and those in “commonly overlooked populations such as the LGBTQ and Black communities,” he said. “Our goal is to reach as many people as we can.”

Kabel, a four-year employee at GCASA, said the project will be successful “because Jarett (who is in recovery) is very focused and understands what substance use disorder is all about.”

She said that more people are hearing about the support group and that residents of both Genesee and Orleans counties are in counseling programs led by Schutt.

The HRSA RCORP-PS project at GCASA offers prevention, treatment, and recovery services specific to individuals who struggle with psychostimulants. Those services include 24/7 peer support, case management, support group, transportation, recovery activities, wellness and fitness, parent and family support, insurance/resource navigation, hepatitis/HIV navigation and naloxone training.

Transportation to the support group at The Recovery Station is available by checking the schedule on The Recovery Station calendar on Facebook or by calling LoCicero at 585-664-4146.

Disclosure: Mike Pettinella is the publicist for GCASA.

The Le Roy football program is a program with a lot of wins, a lot of history, a lot of tradition, and Mike Humphrey has been a part of it.

This week, the Board of Education approved Humphrey's appointment to head coach of the Oatkan Knights, making him the first former player to be named head coach in the program's history.

Humphrey was a wide receiver and defensive back with the Knights through three championship seasons -- 2006, 2007, and 2008.  He's been part of the coaching staff, including head JV coach, for a decade, and has worked for the past five years at the elementary school as a physical education instructor.

"I'm excited," Humphrey said. "This is something I've been a part of for a long time, as a player and as a coach.

"This is something that has always kind of been on my mind, and so here we are," he added. "I'm excited to get the process going."

One of his assistants, Jim Bonaquisti, who was also once his coach at Le Roy, said Humphrey clearly has a plan and is already moving forward to get the team ready for the 2023 season. 

"He knows what he needs to do," Bonaquisti said.  "He knows what it's supposed to look like.  He's going to do a great job."

With Humphrey and assistants Pete Green and John Whiting, Bonaquisti will be working alongside three coaches he coached when they were high school players.

"Either I've been here a long time or I'm getting old," Bonaquisti quipped.

But that's all part of the tradition, said Bonaquisti, who serves as the team's historian.  

"He was a hell of a player," Bonaquisti said. "He was an all-state player.  He was a really good college player at Cortland. He's in the Top 10 among receivers in several categories at Cortland. He's young, and hopefully, he's going to stay a while."

Humphrey replaces Brian Herdlein, who has been head coach since 2015.  Herdlein, who previously served as an assistant under Brian Moran, lives in Batavia, and Bonquisti said Herdein's sons are coming of age in Batavia's football program, and he wants to be around to be part of their football careers.

"We all get it," Bonaquisti said. "When I was JV coach, I had to miss one of my son's Little League games, and I said, 'Never again.'  We love him.  I loved coaching with him, and I understand."

It's been a few years, however, since the Oatkan Knights claimed a sectional title.  There was even talk earlier this year, because of declining participation numbers in football, of merging the Le Roy program with Cal-Mum.  That isn't going to happen, and Bonaquisti thinks Humphrey has the experience, knowledge, and commitment to return Le Roy to championship football.

"It's time for another title," he said.

Humphrey said he feels good about the program.  He coached winning teams at the JV level for five years and said there are players coming up who can help the team win.

"We have a lot of skill position players coming back at the varsity level, and while we lost some on the lines, we've got great players coming," Humphrey said. "I'm confident in their skill and their ability.  I've got nothing but confidence and enthusiasm for our kids."

Photo: Mike Humphrey on left.  Photo by Ed Henry.