GO ART! is hosting a Creative Arts Camp during April Break Eclipse Themed(April 1 - 5).
This camp is tailored to students in grades K-6. Grade school students will create and maintain positive connections while enjoying hands-on exploration of various disciplines including culinary arts, visual arts, performing arts, and literary arts.
Participants will work on a variety of Eclipse-themed projects using different mediums and art forms. They will build upon problem-solving and critical thinking skills while increasing their knowledge about different mediums and forms of art in a safe, inclusive, and structured environment.
In the past we have done visual arts projects while learning about famous artists and art movements, created puppets and put on plays, played in the musical garden, learned about different styles of dance, as well as various arts and crafts projects.
Please drop off your camper between 8:45 and 9 a.m. and pick them up between 2:45 and 3 p.m. GO ART! will provide snacks and water but don’t forget to send your camper with lunch.
Registration is required to attend Creative Arts Camp and spots are limited. https://goart.org/programming/exlporeart/exlporeart-children/, call (585) 343-9313 or email Jodi at jfisher@goart.org.
Learn How to Audition with Maryanne Arena at GO ART!
GO ART! is hosting a ‘Learn How to Audition Workshop’ with GCC Director of Fine and Performing Arts Maryanne Arena on Saturdays in April (6, 13, 20, and 27) from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Classes will include: Picking appropriate material, contrasting monologues, cold readings, and improv). Nail that next audition by working with Maryanne and learning the essentials!
The class will cost $180 for the 4 week session but the knowledge you will come away with will serve participants for years to come. Pre-registration is required and spots are limited. This workshop is for high schoolers to adults only. To register and reserve your spot visit www.goart.org/programming/exlporeart/exploreart-adult/.
Professor Bio: Maryanne Arena is a professional entertainer who has taught acting and other theatre subjects for over 30 years. She has been the Director of Fine and Performing Arts at Genesee Community College for twenty years. Maryanne holds an M.F.A from Brooklyn College where she was mentored by Academy Award winner F. Murray Abraham and has studied with some of the world’s greatest professionals. Maryanne has won the prestigious SUNY Chancellor’s Award twice.
She is a published author and has won awards for her acting and directing. She is a judge for the KCACTF organization and has participated in and conducted workshops for The Theatre Association of NYS. She is a voting member of the Screen Actors Guild, and before embarking on a teaching career, she was a professional actor, singer, dancer, choreographer, and director. Maryanne was a resident member of the LORT Company P.A. Stage and performed many leads in professional summer stock. Her students are currently performing on Broadway, nightclubs, children’s theatre touring, cruise ships, television, and movies. She knows what it takes to successfully nail that audition for any venue (conservatory auditions, Broadway, touring, improv, and community theatre.
A sewer line is shown on Aug. 12 on Route 63 in the Town of Alabama. Genesee County Economic Development Center is trying to install the sewer main along 9.5 miles of Route 63 – from the STAMP site to Oak Orchard Creek. Construction was halted before the sewer line made it to Orleans after a lawsuit was filed. Photo by Tom Rivers.
A State Supreme Court justice on Thursday dismissed a lawsuit and temporary injunction against the construction of a nearly 10-mile-long sewer main from the STAMP manufacturing site in the town of Alabama along Route 63 to Oak Orchard Creek in the town of Shelby.
Judge Frank Caruso ruled in favor of the Genesee County Economic Development Center. GCEDC argued that Orleans County had 23 chances to state its objection to the sewer main since 2016 but waited until construction started to voice its opposition.
Judge Caruso cited the legal argument of “laches,” where there is a lack of diligence in making a legal claim. Attorneys for GCEDC argued in court that waiting until construction commenced on the project should be considered an unreasonable delay.
The judge also ruled in favor of GCEDC due to a statute of limitations. He made his decision from the bench in court today, following about an hour of arguments in the main courtroom of the county courthouse. He will also issue a written decision.
Orleans County officials say the county will appeal the decision and has other court options to try to halt the project.
“The fight here is not over,” said Alex Eaton, an attorney for the Orleans County Legislature. “We have several more paths to prevent Orleans County from becoming a dumping ground for STAMP sewer discharges.”
The county also has a lawsuit to be heard in April about GCEDC using eminent domain to take easements in Orleans County. The attorneys for Orleans said another county’s IDA can’t do eminent domain in another county.
Orleans also supports the Tonawanda Seneca Nation in its litigation against several federal entities regarding the permitting of the sewer pipeline.
“Orleans County leadership remains steadfast in our opposition to anything that puts Oak Orchard Creek in jeopardy,” Eaton, an attorney with Lippes Mathias, said in a statement released from the County Legislature. “The county and its residents rely on the creek for water, recreation and tourism, and that is why we will continue to protect the interests of our community. Again, while we are disappointed in today’s result, there is a long way to go before this issue is settled.”
Orleans County filed its lawsuit on Sept. 11, naming GCEDC, G. DeVincentis & Son Construction Co., Inc., Genesee Gateway Local Development Corporation, and STAMP Sewer Works, Inc.
Matthew J. Fitzgerald and James O’Connor of Phillips Lytle LLP appeared in court today on behalf of GCEDC. They contended that the sewer main underwent a rigorous environmental review of 9,200-plus pages and was ultimately approved by the state Department of Environmental Conservation, Army Corps of Engineers, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The attorneys said those agencies found no evidence of harm to Oak Orchard Creek or the community.
The sewer main would allow businesses at the 1,250-acre STAMP to discharge treated sewer water into the Oak Orchard. At STAMP’s peak, the sewer main could discharge up to 6 million gallons daily in the Oak Orchard. The sewer main is imperative for economic development at the site.
“STAMP does not survive without somewhere to discharge the treated sanitary water,” Fitzgerald said in court today.
Fitzgerald said the four-month statute of limitations passed after Orleans filed the Article 78 proceeding on Sept. 11, and the county failed to notify other parties that would be hurt if the lawsuit successfully halted the sewer main.
He said property owners who paid for easements for the temporary construction could lose out on payments. The Town of Alabama would miss out on 100,000 gallons of sewer capacity, and Niagara County Water District would miss out on selling water to the STAMP site. Orleans didn’t factor in those impacts in the lawsuit, Fitzgerald said.
The crux of the case, he said, was the contention that Orleans never gave its support for economic development from another county. But he said Orleans officials were notified in 2016, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 to voice any concerns over STAMP, and GCEDC served as the lead agency.
“The response was silence,” Fitzgerald said. “They slept on their rights for approximately eight years. They could have objected.”
He said STAMP has about $100 million in public funds committed to developing the site so far, and about $1 billion has already been spent or committed in private investment.
Orleans' attorneys contend that Genesee County used its money through its industrial development agency to fund the sewer main and pursue eminent domain in another county, powers that an IDA does not have.
Jennifer Persico, an attorney with Lippes Mathias representing Orleans, said the STAMP sewer project clearly used Genesee County funds to move the project into Orleans County.
The GCEDC attorneys said the project was funded through state grants and wasn’t actually GCEDC money.
The town of Shelby also joined Orleans in the lawsuit. The Shelby attorney, Jeffrey Allen, said Shelby supports the efforts of Orleans County to halt the pipeline before it gets into Orleans. He said there are many violations of general municipal law related to the project.
Shelby previously supported the project, but he said that was a statement considering its environmental impacts.
“The consent was not that they could run roughshod over the autonomy of Orleans County,” Allen said in court.
Eaton, an attorney for Orleans County, said the case could be a landmark for the state. He said the courts should protect smaller neighboring counties from being forced to take on negative impacts from another county’s economic development efforts.
“This would be one of the biggest expansions of IDA power in New York State,” Eaton said.
The Pembroke Youth Association's (PYA) winter cheer program continues on a winning streak, taking a first-place finish at a competition this past weekend. This impressive performance took place at the Shout Cheer & Dance Lake Erie Championship held in Erie, PA on March 3.
The Dragon Sparks, comprised of talented young athletes ranging from 1st to 6th Grade, competed in the Level 1 category. They delivered a captivating routine, showcasing their athleticism, teamwork, and positive energy, earning high praise from the judges. The Pembroke Sparks took 1st Place, Level Champions, Grand Champions, Best Tumbling, and Best Choreography!
"I am incredibly proud of this dedicated group of young athletes," said Caryn Bosse, head coach of the PYA Dragon Sparks. "Their commitment, hard work, and positive attitude truly shine through in their performances. They consistently push themselves to improve, and their dedication is inspiring."
The Dragon Infernos, comprised of athletes ranging from 3rd to 8th Grade, competed in Level 2. They dazzled and stunted, secured a 1st Place Finish, Level Champ, and brought home Best Stunts!
The PYA winter cheer program is committed to providing young athletes with a positive and enriching environment to develop their athletic skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. The program fosters a sense of community pride and offers valuable opportunities for personal growth.
The Winter Cheer Program is excited to take on another competition this weekend at Shout Cheer and Dance, Queen City National Championship Patty Shelly Memorial - Orchard Park, and for the first time introduces our Tiny Ember Team ranging from young athletes ranging from UPK - 1st Grade.
The Pembroke Youth Association Cheer program is excited to continue to grow and foster a love of the sport in our surrounding Genesee County. Spring Cheer Bootcamp is currently open for all young athletes in surrounding areas, camp begins April 27 and ends June 15. Camp is held on Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. For more information visit pyadragons.org.
GO Art! Executive Director Gregory Hallock shares the good news of receiving more grant money during the Human Services meeting this week, along with the caveat that some of the online community complains about taxpayer dollars being spent. "We're excited they're being spent here, as opposed to everywhere else in the state," he said. Photo by Joanne Beck
Genesee Orleans Regional Arts Council received the second largest funding in New York State, falling only behind Manhattan, of $336,000, which will be dispersed to artists in both counties, Executive Director Gregory Hallock says.
He considers that a pretty major deal, and rightly so. The money will go somewhere, and he figures it might as well go into the hands of local people for their creative projects.
“So we were pretty ecstatic about that. Hoping to continue to increase that. When I came in, we were about $47,000 that we were giving out, so we've jumped up dramatically. And last year was $210,000. So we did a big leap from last year to this year. We had nearly $400,000 in requests this year, so I would like to give credit to the community for jumping up to put on more stuff, but a big credit goes to our statewide community regrant coordinators at GO Art,” Hallock said while presenting his annual report to legislators this week. “We have two of them now that the state funds. We stressed that in our area, it's not just about putting an advertisement out there that people might not necessarily see, but even if they see that, grants scare people. They see grants, and they run. So our coordinators basically hold hands all the way through. They answer every question that anybody has, they basically help with anything but write the grants. But if you write the grant, they will review the grant afterward and give you suggestions and all that.”
He said the nonprofit’s goal is to continue asking for more money and “make more of that happen out here,” which has recently also meant a spate of responses online.
“We'll continue to get more of the negative comments on social media and everywhere else. And we're okay with that. It was a harsh year for that for us. But, people getting upset saying ‘our dollars being spent, our tax dollars being spent,’ but we're excited they're being spent here, as opposed to everywhere else in the state,” he said. “So we're gonna keep pushing for that to happen here. We really like to stress, I don't think most people know that if they're going to something that's arts related, that generally GO Art! is funding that. The $336,000 doesn't go a long way, but it goes quite the way out here, so we will continue to do that.”
He said the agency had more than 100 events this past year in Genesee and Orleans counties and is planning to do the same volume with new types of programs, such as a capital campaign that will draw more use out of the basement. The basement has an entrance and will include an emergency exit that will open up into the music garden portion of the building at 201 E. Main St., Batavia. That expansion will add about 4,000 square feet to GO Art!’s use, he said.
“We’ll be putting a whole bunch of studios and space down there. We just got a grant called black space. We’ll be working with the community and Black architects out of Brooklyn to bring in the Black community to help them help us design something that will be inviting to them to come into our space,” he said. “We’re putting in a dark room, pottery studio, wood shop, and a whole bunch of other studios to expand our happenings and our classes. Our classes have been doing really well; the last four that we’ve offered have all completely sold out. And we’ve had to add additional classes that have also sold out. So we’re really finally starting to get up there, and people know about us.
“We’re really excited about the expansion. It includes an elevator, somebody who can’t get up and down the stairs … I think that’s our major thing.”
He also mentioned The Harve, where artists MaryJo Whitman and Brian Kemp “took a space and artified it” to make use of an industrial building by painting and decorating walls directly or using them as backdrops for exhibits and live musical performances. “We’re going to keep doing cool things,” Hallock said.
It takes money to do those cool things, and the agency runs on a budget of nearly 62 percent public support, or $601,050; $200,661 in Foundation support; $107,334 from individual and corporate donations; and $64,272 from events and earned income. Expenses for the year were $225,800 for grants, $166,190 for programs and events, $16,773 toward fundraising efforts, and $324,744 for administration costs.
The Batavia building includes dance, podcast, film, and music studios, a library and cabaret theater, a darkroom, a pottery studio, a cultural culinary kitchen (used for demonstrations), a gallery with seven exhibition spaces (maintaining a collection of donated and permanent on loan works by highly esteemed local artists), and a bar area that is also used as a small gallery space.
GO Art! has hired a consultant to put out a request for proposal as part of a GLOW region cultural plan, he said. He submitted a grant application last year for $150,000 that was turned down for a larger scope of Western New York that he fine-tuned down to opening a new space in Medina, expanding in the space currently in Batavia, and adding a cultural garden. Hallock hopes to receive a more positive response to the request this year.
“This is possible by the relationships we have already forged and the ones we hope to build. Through ourarts education initiatives, workshops, events, and outreach, we continue to establish new and growing community relationships,” he said in his annual letter. “The accomplishments of the past year make our members, board of directors, and dedicated staff excited about the thriving and diverse arts in Genesee and Orleans Counties. Together we will continue to ‘Make Art Happen.’
"We already have everything ready to get that moving, so that we can put together our cultural plan and figure out how we're going to progress, and bringing tourism into the glow region for arts and culture, and continuing to expand upon what we have for our region,” he said.
County Manager Matt Landers, in his yearly allocations request for GO Art!, asked for $7,500 — the same amount as for 2023 and 2022. That total was increased by $1,000 from 2021, when it was $6,500 since 2018. Funding for the nonprofit was at all-time high in 1997 of $10,000, including a $4,000 matching funds state grant. Before that, county funding was $2,500 in 1993, but it took a big leap four years later and has hovered around the $6,500 to $9,000 mark.
Genesee County Legislature is to vote on the request during its meeting on March 13.
The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) board of directors will consider a final resolution for a proposed market-rate housing development on MedTech Drive in the town of Batavia at its board meeting on Thursday, March 7.
MedTech Landing LLC plans to invest $15 million to construct 100,000 sq. ft. of apartment buildings totaling 80 units. The project is comprised of six buildings with a dozen one-, two- and three-bedroom units, one 8-unit building, and 6 six-car garages.
The project aligns with GCEDC Housing Policy and the Genesee County Housing Needs Assessment, which identified a 4,800-unit housing demand over 20 years.
MedTech Landing LLC is seeking a sales tax exemption estimated at $720,000, a property tax abatement of approximately $3,031,048, and a mortgage tax exemption of $120,000. It is estimated that $12 of economic impact will be generated by the development for every one dollar of public sector investment.
The project would also generate up to $1 million over 20 years for the Batavia Home Fund (BHF). The BHF promotes and provides grants to support new home construction and rehabilitation of residential properties to enhance the area’s housing stock.
The GCEDC board will also consider an initial resolution from LeatherLeaf Solar LLC for a 5 MW community solar farm in the town of Byron. The $9 million project is anticipated to generate $4,000/megawatts (AC) annually + a 2% annual escalator of revenues to Genesee County and Byron-Bergen Central School District and a host agreement with the Town of Byron.
The March 7, GCEDC board meeting will be held at 4 p.m. at the MedTech Center’s Innovation Zone, 99 MedTech Drive, Batavia. Meeting materials and links to a live stream/on-demand recording of the meeting is available at www.gcedc.com.
Students show some of the items collected for the 100 Days, 100 Donations project Photo by Deb Slocum.
Press Release:
On Friday, February 16, Elementary School students and staff gifted tissues, dry-erase markers, glue sticks, composition notebooks, and other learning supplies to the Genesee County Youth Bureau.
Each year for the 100th Day of School, Byron-Bergen students in grades UPK through 5 challenge themselves to collect 100 items per grade level to donate to a local charitable or community service organization. 100 days of school,100 donations.
This year, all six grade levels met or surpassed their goal for a grand total of over 700 items.
“We would like to impress upon the children that each one of them can make a difference in our community,” said Kindergarten teacher and project organizer Ayn Gardner.
For this annual project, elementary school grade levels are assigned a different donation item with the goal of collecting 100 of each. In the weeks leading up to the 100th day of school, students bring their donation items to the front hallway where the bulletin board shows the tally for each grade level. Every item is carefully counted and added to the total.
“The annual community service project has dual purposes: to teach students what ‘100’ looks like and to show the importance of community service,” said Principal Kristin Loftus. “One person, one item, one donation can make a big difference if everyone works together.”
Student updates the 100 Days, 100 Donations tally Photo by Deb Slocum.
Donations arrive at the Genesee County Youth Bureau Photo courtesy of Genesee County Youth Bureau.
On Thursday, February 15, Genesee County’s Adults with Developmental Disabilities celebrated Valentine’s Day at the dance in Byron Fire Hall. Amongst red hearts, cupids, and lots of red, pink, and glittery balloons - a great time was had by all.
Snacks and drinks were prepared and pizza was served up by many members of the Byron Ladies Auxiliary as well as some volunteers.
DJ, Big Saxy, cued up plenty of tunes that kept the dance floor hopping throughout the evening. When the song, Locomotion, was played volunteers led a dancing parade that circled around the hall. Volunteer photographer, Bob Radley, clicked away taking lots of great photos.
Toward the end of the dance, Morgan Leaton announced the date for the next dance, the St. Patrick’s Day Dance, as Thursday, March 14. The DJ for that dance will be JT.
The dances are open to anyone with developmental disabilities aged 13 and up residing in Genesee County. Proper staffing is required. If you would like more information or wish to volunteer, please contact Morgan Leaton at 585-815-3157 or morganrleaton@gmail.com.
Submitted photo of Genesee County 4-H Horse Bowl Participants (left to right) Eva Rhoads, Coach; Alana Mlyniec; Lydia Page; Jomni Tarbell, Coach.
Press Release:
The Genesee County 4-H Horse Program was well-represented at the Finger Lakes Region 4-H Horse Extravaganza on Saturday, March 2 at Honeoye Falls Intermediate School.
4-H youth from across the Finger Lakes region competed in Horse Bowl and Hippology Contests at the event.
Horse Bowl is a Jeopardy-style competition that tests participants' knowledge of equine facts, including breeds, equipment, nutrition, and more.
Hippology is a hands-on test of identifying equipment, feeds, and other equine facts.
Top-placing participants will have the opportunity to represent the region at the state-level contests at Cornell University and the New York State Fair later this year.
Horse Bowl Results:
Alana Mlyniec – 2nd Senior, 1st Senior Team
Lydia Page – 4th Senior, 1st Senior Team
Hippology Results:
Lydia Page – 3rd Senior, 1st Senior Team
Alana Mlyniec – 5th Senior, 1st Senior Team
Congratulations to all of the 4-H members who competed in the contest and special thanks to coaches Eva Rhoads and Jomni Tarbell for all of their hard work and dedication to the 4-H Horse Bowl Club.
The Genesee County 4-H Program is a youth development program for youth ages 5-18. New 4-H youth members, adult volunteers, and clubs are always welcome to join. For information about how to join the Genesee County 4-H Program, please contact the 4-H Office at genesee4h@cornell.edu or (585) 343-3040 ext. 101. Enrollment information is also available on our website at http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu.
Le Roy Jr.-Sr. High School presents "Chicago," a teen edition of the musical, this Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
All show times are 7 p.m. Performances are in the school auditorium.
Tickets at the door are $15 for adults and $12 for students and senior citizens.
The music is by John Kander, book by Fred Ebb.
The cast includes Aubrey Puccio as Velma Kelly, Anna Long as Roxie Hart, Ethan LaBarbera as Fred Casely, Jameson Zitz as Sergeant Fogarty, Kira Ryan as Matron "Mama" Morton, Judge Biviano as Amos Hart.
The artistic director is Jacqueline McLean, Joe Kusmierczak is the co-director, and the choreographer is Jessica Pcioneck.
Avoid the rush and get your GeneSEEtheEclipse commemorative ISO certified-safe eclipse viewing glasses now! Stop into the Genesee County Visitor Center in Batavia today to purchase your glasses, order online at ShopGeneseeTheEclipse.comfor pick up at the Visitor Center, or to ship direct to you.
Online orders can be shipped through March 15th cut-off date. We have a limited supply, so don’t delay!
Assemblyman Steve Hawley with Bessie the Cow. Submitted photo.
Press release:
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R, C - Batavia) attended the New York Farm Bureau’s Taste of New York reception in Albany yesterday. The event was hosted in the Empire State Plaza Convention Center and attended by county Farm Bureau members and public officials. During this time, Hawley met with local farmers and members of the Farm Bureau about the importance of New York agriculture. New York is one of the leading states for agriculture, the fifth-largest dairy producer in the nation and has roughly seven million acres of farmland. The industry has also created nearly 200,000 jobs, with the vast majority of farms in the state being family-owned. Hawley is proud to have attended this event and hopes it will bring more awareness to one of the state’s largest industries.
“It was great to meet with so many New Yorkers yesterday who share a passion for local agriculture,” said Hawley. “As a farmer once myself, I have a special appreciation for this industry. From the grocery store to the food in your pantry, we all rely on local farms like the ones we have here in Western New York. Holding this event in Albany will shine a light on this vital industry and bring more attention to our family-owned farms.”
Richard Ball, commiseration with the Department of Agriculture and Markets, with Assemblyman Steve Hawley. Submitted photo.
H.P. Hood plant in the Genesee Valley Agri-Business Park, Batavia. FIle photo by Howard Owens.
Press release:
The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors will consider a final resolution for HP Hood’s $120 million proposed expansion project at its meeting on Thursday, March 7.
Announced by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul last fall, HP Hood plans to expand its footprint at the Genesee Valley Agri-Business Park. The project includes the construction of a 32,500 square foot expansion to accommodate its automatic storage and retrieval system (ASRS) refrigerated warehouse. The project will also include new batching and processing systems and other upgrades, allowing the company to increase capacity and begin a new production line.
“The agricultural sector is a backbone of our regional and state economy, as evidenced by the significant investment and jobs provided by companies such as HP Hood, Upstate Niagara Cooperative, and O-AT-KA Milk Products, among many others,” said GCEDC President and CEO Steve Hyde. The sector's growth here is the result of the Genesee Agri-Business Park, which was constructed in 2011 and is now almost at full build-out.”
The expansion would create 48 new jobs while retaining 455 full-time positions as part of the company’s 1,200 employees throughout New York State. Investments at the Genesee Valley Agri-Business Park have resulted in a cluster with over 1.2 million sq. ft. of food and beverage facilities employing over 1,000 professionals in the food processing industry, the leading employment sector in Genesee County and GLOW region.
Byron-Bergen Boys Basketball Coach Roxanne Noeth with Assistant Coach Elliott Flint at Blue Cross Arena in Rochester on Saturday after the Bees won a sectional championship. Submitted Photo.
Press release:
On Saturday, March 2, Roxanne Noeth made Section V Athletics history by becoming the first woman to coach a boys varsity basketball team to a sectional championship in the 103-year history of the organization. The win marks the first sectional championship in Byron-Bergen boys basketball history. The only other Byron-Bergen basketball sectional championship was in 1984 when 9th grade Noeth was called up from JV to help the girls varsity basketball team to victory.
As a member of the championship 1984 team, Noeth carved out a place for herself in Byron- Bergen athletics’ history, setting the single-game scoring record in 1987, which was tied in 2022 by varsity boys’ basketball player Corden Zimmerman and broken by boys’ captain Braedyn Chambry this season. Noeth still holds the girls’ basketball single-game scoring record and was inducted into the Byron-Bergen Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010.
After graduation, Noeth attended St. John Fisher, where she played Division III basketball and softball. She is also a member of the St. John Fisher Athletics Hall of Fame. She coached collegiate women’s basketball at RIT before stepping away to raise her children. She returned to Byron-Bergen basketball in 2009 when she began volunteering for her children’s basketball teams. In 2017, she was hired officially as head coach of the boys’ varsity basketball team.
“It was never on my radar to be a boys basketball coach specifically,” said Noeth, “but the opportunity arose, and I’ve always had great support from the administration and community.”
Noeth was hired by Athletic Director Rich Hannan and Superintendent Pat McGee, the High School Principal at the time.
“I couldn't be prouder of Coach Noeth and the job she has done with this program,” said Hannan. “I have watched her build the team for many years now. She is extremely knowledgeable and puts her heart and soul into giving her athletes the best opportunity possible to achieve their greatest potential. She leaves no stone unturned and is always prepared. Her passion rubs off on her team, and you can see it in her players.”
Outside of the Byron-Bergen community, Noeth noticed some raised eyebrows. Despite the abundance of men coaching girls’ teams, Noeth was often the only woman in the room for boys’ basketball. According to Noeth, the first three years as head coach were tough, but she soon made a name for herself and the team within the division. In 2023, she became the first woman to be named Section V, Class C3 Coach of the Year for Boys Basketball, a title she kept for the 2024 season in C2.
“Coach Noeth is an excellent role model for her players and all our future coaches,” said McGee. “The Sectionals win was huge for our community, but I also feel the enormous impact it has made on the future of Section V coaching.”
“Seeing Coach Noeth raise the Sectional trophy was a reminder of what is possible,” said Byron-Bergen Assistant Principal Katie Grattan. “The future coaches of Section V are watching.”
When asked about her legacy, Noeth states, “The impact of my coaching a boys’ team, the impact it is having on young girls and women, it’s definitely a positive side effect, but it’s not why I coach. I love this team. I love this sport. I’m just a coach.”
Byron-Bergen beat Notre Dame 67-60 on Monday to stay alive in the postseason as Section V consolidates its Class C champions.
The game matched up Class C2 vs. Class C3. The Bees will next play Class C1 champion Lyons in West Bloomfield at 7 p.m. on Wednesday. The winner of that game will represent Section V in Class C against the Class C champion of Section VI in the Far West Regional Championship game, with the winner moving on to a state championship semifinal game.
For the Bees, Colin Martin scored 22 points, and Braedyn Chambry scored 17. Broady Baubie scored 16, and Brendan Pimm scored 11.
For the Irish, Jaden Sherwood scored 23, Jay Antinore scored 16 points, and Chase Antinore scored 10.
United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes is hosting its annual Day of Caring on May 23.
Day of Caring is the largest single day of volunteering in the region. Six counties, including Genesee, Ontario, Monroe, Livingston, Wayne, and Wyoming, will mobilize over 6,000 volunteers on May 23.
The dedicated committee of volunteers in Genesee County has helped to match agencies with volunteers for 15 years! Hundreds of volunteers in Genesee County will work together to meet the needs of dozens of local agencies and non-profits.
By participating in these engaging, hands-on projects, volunteers help create a brighter future for local communities and help those in need.
There are still volunteer spots available and agencies to support in Genesee County. Sign up as an individual or as a team with friends, family, or colleagues using the contact information below for a fun-filled day of giving back to the community.
Submitted photo of Joe Pantoliano – Actor (Sopranos, Matrix).
Press Release:
Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel had a record-setting week From February 18 to 24. With daily promotions, nicer weather, and the heavily anticipated Legends & Stars Sports Card Expo taking place in the week, more than $25 million in Credits Played went through the machines at the gaming facility, marking its highest week-long total of all time.
On Friday, Feb. 23, Batavia Downs reported its third-best, single-day record in credits played, with $5,173,626.
The week total for net win of $1,871,544 was the second-highest in Batavia Downs's history.
“We are so very appreciative that, in a region with so many entertainment options, people are choosing to visit Batavia Downs in record numbers," said Henry Wojtaszek, Batavia Downs President and CEO. “To commemorate the record-breaking weekend and to say "thank you" to our guests, I’ve asked our Marketing Team to do a special promotional drawing on Sunday.“
A special drawing, set for 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 3, will see one person win $2,000 in cash and a pair of suite-level tickets to the Zach Bryan March 10 concert at KeyBank Center.
Anyone who plays on March 3, using their Player's Card, is eligible for the contest.
Submitted photo of Lawrence Taylor - Giants Legend.
Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Colon cancer occurs when cells in the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably.
Abnormal growths, known as polyps, can occasionally develop, and certain polyps may eventually develop into cancer. Polyps can be found by screening tests and be removed before they become cancerous. Colon cancer is preventable, with the proper screening and education.
Some of the risk factors for colorectal cancer include:
Inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps
Lifestyle factors that include overweight and obesity; not being physically active; certain types of diets such as a diet low in fruit and vegetables, a low-fiber and high-fat diet, and a diet high in processed meats; tobacco use; and alcohol use
Colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms immediately, and some people have no symptoms. Some of the symptoms may include:
A change in bowel habits
Blood in or on your stool (bowel movement)
Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way
Discomfort in the stomach area, such as cramps, gas, or pain that does not go away
Unintended weight loss
Weakness and fatigue
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 90% of people whose colorectal cancers are found early, diagnosed, and treated appropriately are still alive five years later.
“Getting screened plays a big role in saving lives by preventing cancer and slowing its progression when found,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health).
“In recent decades, screening rates among older adults have significantly increased, which is great news,” stated Laura Paolucci, Public Health Administrator for the Wyoming County Health Department. “However, current data indicates that individuals lacking health insurance or a primary care provider are undergoing screening procedures less frequently.”
For eligible men and women, the Cancer Services Program offers free screenings for breast, cervical, and colon cancer. To learn more, call 716-278-4898. If you live in New York State and need health insurance, you can contact the New York State of Health Official Health Plan Marketplace by phone at 1-855-355-5777 or online at https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/.
The most effective way to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer is to get screened for colorectal cancer routinely, beginning at age 45. Residents are also encouraged to increase their physical activity, keep a healthy weight, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid tobacco. Although more research is needed to understand why, the incidence of colorectal cancer is growing among people younger than 50. If you have concerns about this, speak with your healthcare provider.
For more information on Health Department programs and services call Genesee County Health Department at 585-344- 2580 ext. 5555 or visit their website at GOHealthNY.org. Follow GO Health on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formally Twitter) at GOHealthNY.
Town Court Clerk Below are two lists: one details the myriad responsibilities that fall within the purview of the court clerk; the other summarizes the knowledge and abilities that court clerks possess or acquire through training. These lists are provided so that a judge and municipality can intelligently discuss the benefits that a court clerk can provide. The items below can also form the basis for a list of job duties should a municipality need to fill a vacancy in a court clerk position. Primary Responsibilities A. Maintain confidentiality of records and information when required to do so B. Prepare court calendar C. Collect monies, reconcile daily receipts, deposit receipts, prepare reports for monthly disbursements, reconcile bank accounts, and prepare administrative reports D. Enter convictions on drivers' licenses and prepare conviction reports electronically transmitted to the Department of Motor Vehicles E. Enter criminal conviction on NCIC reports and electronically send same to Division of Criminal Justice Services F. Respond to inquiries-in person, by phone, by e-mail and by mail-and provide assistance to lawyers, litigants, media, and members of the public G. Prepare monthly reports that are electronically sent to the Office of the State Comptroller H. Prepare orders, summonses, warrants and other court forms i. Communicate with outside agencies in order to coordinate the Court's activities and provide services to litigants. Such agencies include: ii. Law enforcement agencies, such as local police departments, New York State Police, Sheriffs office, FBI and CIA, US Armed Forces, and the Office of the District Attorney; I. Other courts, including superior courts and other local town and village courts; and i. Miscellaneous county agencies, such as Community Service, Community Dispute Resolution Center, Pre-trial Release, Probation, Stop DWI program, Victim Impact Panel, and Youth Court. ii. State agencies that require periodic reporting, including the New York State Unified Court System, the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Office of the State Comptroller, the Division of Criminal Justice Services, and the Office of Court Record Retention. J. Examine court documents to ensure their accuracy and completeness K. Receive and file summonses, traffic tickets and other documents for court proceedings i. Assist the Justice at the bench during all Court proceedings Knowledge of: 1. The functions and organization of the Unified Court System ii. Basic legal terminology, codes and abbreviations iii. Court forms, practices and procedures, including those set forth in the Uniform Justice Court Act and the Uniform Civil Rules for the Justice Courts (22 NYCRR Part 214) 2. Ability to: i. Prepare judicial orders and decisions ii. Effectively communicate information orally and in writing iii. File and retrieve materials, extract data from various sources for entry onto court form iv. Research and interpret laws outlined in court documents and litigants' motions and other papers v. Perform mathematical tasks in order to compile court activity reports, total receipts, accept payments, and verify bills vi. Refer to appropriate documents, statutes, citations or other sources in order to respond to specific questions from attorneys, litigants and members of the general public vii. Interpret policies, statutes, rules and regulations and apply them in specific contexts viii. Establish work priorities ix. Constructively manage conflict with court users Qualifications: Highschool diploma recognized by the NYS Dept of Education or appropriate equivalent. Along with 4 years of college, specialization in criminal justice, law, business administration or related field. -OR- 2 years college with specialization in Business Administration or related field. Please email your resume to abrownell@townofbatavia.com no later than 12/16/2024. Pay is based on experience.
