Nazareth University students named to the spring 2024 Dean's List:
Laura Lepkowski of Batavia
Matthew Smith of Batavia
Katherine Spiotta of Batavia
Maveric McKenzie of Pavilion
Benjamin Robinson of Le Roy
Abigail Hoerbelt of Batavia
Hannah Wies of Bergen
Chad Ohlson of Oakfield
A student's grade point average must be at least 3.5 or above, and they must complete 12 credit hours of graded work that semester in order to be included on the dean's list at Nazareth.
Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for nearly 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good.
Seeing the contracts NFL teams are handing out, it’s wild to see the value of a journeyman quarterback or a promising left tackle.
But we have students graduating from our high schools this year who have made their own million-dollar decisions in mechatronics and in the metal trades.
And nothing is preventing more students from doing the same.
Take Joseph Costa and Thomas Condidorio from Le Roy.
We just celebrated our 100th graduate in the Batavia Career & Technical Education Center’s Electro-Mechanical Trades Program, and their story is an example of why this career pathway is working.
In their junior and senior years, Joseph and Thomas trained in the Electro-Mechanical Trades classroom and went on job shadows and paid youth apprenticeship co-ops at Gorbel.
Both students are now graduating with accepted offers to continue with the company and pursue apprenticeships.
Without college debt and with the starting salaries matching their training experience, they are on the path to making $1 million over the next 12 years.
How?
Upon entering the workforce in a specialized field, students can complete a four-year apprenticeship program, where they gain hands-on experience and develop their skills while contributing to the team as a valuable asset.
These four years can earn you as much as $250,000 debt-free!
After your apprenticeship, you will be well on your way with promotions, additional job duties, and leadership roles that will set you up for sustained success throughout your professional career.
Your next eight years in the workforce can earn you an additional $750,000, which will complete your 'make a million in mechatronics' milestone as a professional who can receive a steady annual salary increase.
Joseph and Thomas are thrilled to have the chance to 'make a million in mechatronics', but what's even more exciting is that every other student in their region and their classmates in the CNC and Welding programs at the Batavia CTE share the same incredible opportunity!
These three programs are just the beginning of what mechatronics and the metal trades have to offer, providing a foundation for a wide range of career possibilities.
Mechatronics is an in-demand skill set that employers are actively searching for. It provides professionals with diverse roles related to computing, robotics, mechanical engineering, and information technology.
For Joseph and Thomas, the programs that led them to start their careers in mechatronics with a strong foundation in robotics, residential/commercial electrical, circuit boards, wiring, and most importantly, how to become self-sufficient learners, skills manifested from the instruction of Rich Monroe and the Electro-Mechanical Program.
These skills lead to local careers including residential electrician, industrial electrician, maintenance technician, advanced manufacturing technician, robotics technician, engineering/engineering technician, solar technician, and even healthcare technician!
Even if your child is graduating without taking advantage of this program, there are opportunities to catch up.
The same partners who supported Joseph and Thomas team up for a six-week mechatronics-based program at the Batavia CTE Center. The program provides students aged 18-24 with paid on-the-job training and classroom instruction.
By gaining these skills, students can improve their job prospects and increase their earning potential in the region.
With all of the companies growing in our region, we can help your son or daughter find their path. As a career coach, I’m passionate about helping them.
We can get them on the path to ‘make a million in mechatronics and the metal trades’!
Contact me at csuozzi@gcedc.com to learn more about the opportunities available.
Chris “Coach SwazZ” Suozzi is the Vice President of Business & Workforce Development at the Genesee County Economic Development Center.
City Council President Eugene Jankowski, Brian S. Murray, NYS director of the USDA, former Rep. Chris Jacobs, Rep. Claudia Tenney, Assemblyman Steve Hawley, City Manager Rachael Tabelski, Police Chief Shawn Heubusch, Matt Wojtaszczyk, a detective and president of the Batavia Police Benevolent Society. Photo by Howard Owens.
Construction may have begun six weeks ago, but the "groundbreaking" -- a dignitary-studded event on Alva Place -- on a new home for the Batavia Police Department was held late Friday morning under clear blue skies.
The new police headquarters on Bank Street will be 20,000 square feet and cost more than $15 million. According to officials, the facility will be "state-of-the-art," compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and provide all the features necessary for a 21st-century police state.
It replaces a 167-year-old building, the Brisbane Mansion, once the home of one of Batavia's most historically important wealthiest families, then City Hall, then the police station.
Police say it is dilapidated, outdated, and totally inadequate to handle the demands of modern policing.
"For years, we have known that our current police station, which is housed in a 19th-century residential mansion, is an inadequate home for our police officers. However you slice it, the current facility does not meet the needs of a 21st-century law enforcement operation. Today, under City Council leadership, we're doing something about it. It has taken many years of planning and due diligence to get us here today. But we stand on this site breaking ground on the new facility. The city of Batavia police force will have a new modern police station, and residents will have an ADA-compliant building where they can seek services." -- Rachael Tabelski city manager. Photo by Howard Owens
Photo by Howard Owens
"I, too, want to acknowledge the city's workforce and the various department heads, not only for your hard work but for making today's groundbreaking a reality, for everything you do on a daily basis to provide services to the citizens and businesses of Batavia. In particular, I want to acknowledge the leadership of our city manager, Rachael Tabelski.This project has presented some difficult challenges. But Rachael and her team have once again demonstrated their excellent management and leadership skills as they keep this transformative project moving forward. " -- City Council President Eugene Jankowski. Photo by Howard Owens
"This is a big day and a great day for Genesee County and particularly the city of Batavia; you're finally going to have a well-running state-of-the-art facility where you can all actually go and work and not feel like you might have your roof caving in on you." -- Rep. Claudia Tenney. Photo by Howard Owens
"We recognize the vital role that our law enforcement officers play in keeping our community safe. Whether it be new and updated equipment, vehicles, or a new facility that is being built right behind us -- or right in front of you -- our police deserve the best of the best. This is a much-needed upgrade for the Batavia Police Department, and I'm excited to see the progress on this new state-of-the-art facility." --Assemblyman Steve Hawley. Photo by Howard Owens
"I understand that the current police station is located just around the corner from here at the Brisbane Mansion. It's about 170 years old. Well, that building has served its purpose over time. This new facility is going to provide needed security technologies and meeting and administrative space for not only the community but also the officers and the staff; the police department here in Batavia can enjoy. Speaking to you as a father, both of my sons are in law enforcement. I know personally what this facility means not only to the community but those individuals who work here. But it also means a lot to the families of these men and ladies in blue because, literally, these people in blue put their lives on the line every single day. " -- Brian S. Murray, NYS director, USDA. Photo by Howard Owens.
Photo by Howard Owens
"I felt in my brief time in service in the Congress, we felt that Batavia -- so strongly -- that Batavia is so poised for a true renaissance and rebound and that we wanted to do everything we could to play a role in helping in that regard. We were thrilled because, first and foremost, this is going to be for law enforcement and to keep our citizens safe, but it's also the piece of the puzzle of what you're doing here in downtown Batavia." -- former Rep. Chris Jacobs. Photo by Howard Owens
"I don't want to belabor it -- why (the Brisbane Mansion) is no longer functionally serves as a police station. We all know it's a very old and antiquated structure. We also know that policing today has changed dramatically, and the building no longer serves a purpose as far as public health and safety is concerned. We believe that a police facility should be a welcoming place for the community. The police station is the second most frequented city building aside from City Hall. People come and go all day long to retrieve reports, file complaints and seek guidance or advice from our staff. The way the new police facility is being constructed will allow it to function as a place where the community can gather and where the members of the department can do their work and protect to serve our community." -- Chief Shawn Heubusch. Photo by Howard Owens
"Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in the history of law enforcement in Batavia. The groundbreaking for a new police station symbolizes our commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for all." -- Matt Wojtaszczyk, a detective and president of the Batavia Police Benevolent Society. Photo by Howard Owens
Milenda Kilby, CRPC TM, APMA TM is part of the Batavia office of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. as an associate financial advisor. She practices with Fieldstone Private Wealth, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Their office is located at 219 East Main Street, Batavia.
“Mindy’s passion for helping clients address their financial concerns and delivering personalized investment, retirement, and estate planning makes her a wonderful team player,” said Mark Woodward, CFP ®, CLTC ®, APMA TM, owner of Fieldstone Private Wealth.
“I am thrilled to be a part of Fieldstone Private Wealth because of our strong, positive reputation in the community and the way we provide exemplary service to clients,” said Kilby.
She has 17 years of experience with Ameriprise Financial. Fieldstone Private Wealth has served the Western New York area for 30-plus years. Kilby graduated from the State University of New York at Buffalo with a degree in Business Administration.
As a private wealth advisory practice, Fieldstone Private Wealth provides financial advice that is anchored in a solid understanding of client needs and expectations and provided in one-on-one relationships with their clients. For more information, please contact Mark Woodward at 585-344-1262, visit the Ameriprise office at 219 East Main Street, Batavia or visit their website www.fieldstoneprivatewealth.com.
Eugene Jankowski Jr., of Batavia, won two gold medals in individual events at the North-South Skirmish Association (N-SSA) 149th spring national match held May 17-19 at Fort Shenandoah near Winchester, VA.
Jankowski won 1st place in the individual 25-yard smoothbore musket event, and 1st place in the individual 50-yard rifled musket event.
The N-SSA is the country’s oldest and largest Civil War shooting sports organization, with 3,000 individuals making up its 200 member units. Each represents a particular unit or regiment, and members dress in authentic period-correct uniforms to compete in live-fire matches with original or authentic reproduction black powder Civil War period muskets, carbines, breech-loading rifles, revolvers, mortars, and cannons. The national match is the largest Civil War shooting sports event of its kind.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office will hold its 5th annual Teen Academy from July 8 to July 12 at Genesee Community College. Over the past several months, posters and flyers have been posted at Genesee County Schools, and the June 1 deadline to apply is only days away. There is no charge to attend the academy.
“Partnering with GCC has allowed us the opportunity to introduce Teen Academy participants to the college’s criminal justice facilities, which include a 9-1-1 dispatch console simulator and a firearms simulator. The Teen Academy is a one-week, structured program that consists of instructional classes designed to provide high-school-aged students within our community an introduction to law enforcement training and gain an understanding of law enforcement’s role in their community. It is our hope that teens will build confidence while learning good decision-making and leadership skills,” stated Sheriff Sheron.
Academy instructors are experienced Deputy Sheriffs who will discuss the day-to-day operations of the Sheriff’s Office. Participants will also:
visit the County Jail, 911 Emergency Services Dispatch Center, and Sheriff’s Office
observe displays of the Emergency Response Team (ERT), Hostage Negotiation, K-9 Unit and Evidence Recovery
be provided insight into motor vehicle accident reconstruction
participate in daily physical fitness runs, defensive tactics, and team-building exercises
participate in a classroom setting and learn about the NYS Penal Laws and Vehicle & Traffic Laws
participate in mock traffic stops and DWI procedures
Qualified candidates will be selected for an interview screening process if they meet the following requirements:
must be entering grades 10-12 at the time of application submission
must be in good academic standing with little to no disciplinary issues
must be able to participate in physical fitness activities
must have a positive attitude
must have their parent’s permission
For more information or to obtain an application, scan the QR code below or contact Deputy Joshua Brabon at 585-345-3000 x3230.
Photo of the James M. Sunser Student Success Center, courtesy of Genesee Community College. Submitted photo.
Press Release:
Genesee Community College (GCC) proudly announces the renaming of its Student Success Center to the James M. Sunser Student Success Center in honor of Dr. James M. Sunser's distinguished service and commitment to student success.
Dr. Sunser, a visionary leader in education, has served as the President of Genesee Community College for thirteen years, leaving an indelible mark on both the institution and the lives of countless students. During his tenure, he oversaw initiatives that fostered academic excellence, student engagement and growth, including the construction of the Student Success Center and the Richard C. Call Arena. Dr. Sunser has announced his intention to retire at the conclusion of the 2023-2024 academic year.
With the opening of the Student Success Center in 2017 as the new 'front door' of the main campus, Genesee Community College introduced a new student success coaching model. This model provides efficient enrollment and student services with a new level of intentional engagement focused on students' academic and personal success.
"This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of our dedicated faculty, staff, and students, who have worked tirelessly to create an environment where every student can thrive. Our goal has always been to provide the support and resources needed for students to achieve their dreams, and I am deeply grateful for this acknowledgment of our shared commitment to their success," said Dr. Sunser.
A hub for academic support services, career development resources, and extracurricular opportunities, the Center embodies Dr. Sunser's belief in providing students with the tools and guidance needed to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
"We are honored to rename our Student Success Center after Dr. James M. Sunser, whose leadership has profoundly impacted our college community," said Jacalyn Whiting, Chair of the Genesee Community College Board of Trustees.
For more information contact Vice President, Development, Admissions, and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu.
On Thursday afternoon, Danielle Rotondo, general manager at Terry Hills, presented JT Turnbull with $16,228.55 -- the total of funds raised at a charity golf tournament held at the course on Saturday.
The funds will assist Turnbull with expenses related to lifestyle adjustments following a spinal injury while skiing in January.
Rotondo set a fundraising goal of $10,000 for the event.
The Batavia Police Department honored the men and women who served the city of Batavia as peace officers on Wednesday at Officer Arthur J. Luplow's graveside.
Luplow served the city for 26 years, from the incorporation of the city in 1915 until his retirement in 1941.
He likely served as a village constable prior to incorporation.
He's described as a gentle giant—a big man who filled a big uniform once on display at the Holland Land Office Museum but whose final on-duty photo shows him holding the hands of two children, helping them cross a street.
Following his retirement, he was an exempt fireman and served as the organization's president. He was also active in Elks and a "formidable" cribbage player.
Luplow is buried in Grandview Cemetery.
There are approximately 50 people who retired from the police department buried in various cemeteries in Genesee County.
The 2024 Batavia Muckdogs at Eli Fish on Tuesday. The players were on hand to meet season ticket holders. Photo by Howard Owens.
At the start of every season, when asked, "Who are the players fans should really watch this season?" Batavia Muckdogs Manager Joey Martinez has the same trouble answering the question
He just can't seem to narrow the response down to two or three players.
"It's not fair to just pick just one. I can pick them all. I love all my guys," Martinez said. "I bet on them. I bet on us. You know, that's all I can do. That's all I know. I like them all."
He did try to single out a few players, starting with, "We've got a couple of arms out there that are pretty impressive."
There's Michael Benedict, Matt Misiti, Reed Marcum, and Garrett Brunstetter.
"Liam Ryan is pretty nasty. He's pretty nasty," Martinez said. "I watched him yesterday. He's pretty nasty."
He added, "I like the arms that we have, and we still got three or four guys coming. I'm looking forward to our William and Mary guy getting here. Anthony Greco. It looks like he's going to be a good guy.
Yet to arrive yet is a projected third baseman, Jake Butler.
"He's a very young guy with a very high IQ," Martinez said. "He has a great feel for the game."
Then he mentions Justin Austin and says, "I mean, the list goes on and on. We have got some really good players. I'm not even sure who else to say. The list goes on and on."
There are also a half-dozen or more returners, including local pitchers Bryceton Berry and Ty Woods. Trey Bacon, Garrett Beaver, Isidro Rosario, Lucas Lopez, and Tucker Beving are also returning.
James Bolton, from Webster, will make his Muckdogs debut this season.
"I always have a lot of surprises and tricks up my sleeve, but I think our team is a little younger this year, a little bit more athletic, a little bit more speed," Martinez said. "We tried to make some adjustments in the offseason. So I would say more bats and balls skills. The pitching staff is looking good on top of that; I think, you know, with the Dogs, we are always gonna be competitive, man, you know, that's the only way I like it -- win or go home."
The Muckdogs open the season on Thursday in Jamestown, followed by an away game on Friday in Elmira, before the home opener against Elmire at 6:35 p.m. on Saturday. Fireworks will follow the game.
The team's first day game at Dwyer is on Sunday at 4:05 p.m. against Niagara Falls Americans, a new team in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League, and like Batavia and Elmira, the team is owned by Robbie and Nellie Nichols. The next home page after that is June 6 at 6:35 p.m. against Newark. For the complete 2024 schedule, click here. For the current roster, click here.
Please be advised that Alva Place from Bank Street to State Street will be closed on Friday, May 31 from 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. We recommend selecting an alternate route to minimize traffic congestion.
Please also note effective May 31 at 3:30 p.m., the City will close Alva Place from Bank Street to the entrance of the City Centre parking lot near JC Penney’s for the duration of the Police Station construction project.
The closure is in anticipation of the beginning of Phase 2 Police Facility Parking Plan. The goal is to make parking accessible for businesses on Washington Avenue and State Street in the City Parking lot during the construction project.
Please see the attached Phase 2 map for reference. Phase 2 will commence in mid to late June. Please plan accordingly, when accessing parking around the construction site.
The upcoming Bourbon & Whiskey Fest at Batavia Downs is seen as a natural fit for both Jeff Weisenborn's company and the venerable Genesee County destination.
"I see it as a perfect partnership," said Weisenborn, a sales representative for the Cheektowaga office of Empire Merchants North.
Empire is the regional distributor of popular brands such as Jack Daniel's, Woodford Reserve, and Old Forester - three of the most popular bourbon and whiskey brands sold in Western New York.
Batavia Downs and Empire Merchants North are partnering for the Sixth Annual Bourbon & Whiskey Fest on June 8, which also ties in with the Belmont Stakes. Various Jack Daniel's, Old Forester, and Woodford Reserve will be showcased.
"We do events like this because it helps draw attention to all our brands," Weisenborn said. "Jack Daniel's is an old town classic."
Events like the Bourbon & Whiskey Fest help Weisenborn "connect" with those who buy the various Jack Daniel's, Woodford Reserve, and Old Forester brands.
"People love to talk whiskey," Weisenborn said. "Whiskey and bourbon are extremely popular. People associate it with getting together and having a good time. And they love the history of our brands."
The Sixth Annual Batavia Downs Bourbon and Whiskey Fest is Saturday, June 8. The event runs 4:30 - 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 and include a $20 coupon for free play at Batavia Downs, a $5 betting voucher for the Belmont Stakes, food, a program, and a free glass. Tickets are available through BataviaConcerts.com.
James Fink writes on behalf of Batavia Downs. Sponsored Post paid for by Batavia Downs.
Please be advised that Bank Street from Alva Place to Washington Avenue will be closed on Thursday, May 30, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. To minimize traffic congestion, we recommend selecting an alternate route.
We apologize for any inconvenience and thank the public for their patience and cooperation as we work to improve our community.
The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next presenter in our Guest Speaker Series on Wednesday, June 12 at 7 p.m. David Whitcombe is a member of the volunteer team at the Buffalo Maritime Center who has been working for years on a reproduction of the Seneca Chief packet boat in honor of the bicentennial of the Erie Canal in 2025. The boat is an exact replica of the one used by Governor DeWitt Clinton as he rode the canal at its opening. David will touch mainly on the construction of the boat itself as well as the historical, cultural and economic significance of the project. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. If you plan on attending, please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com.
"This project is made possible with funds from the statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by GO ART!"
Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for the next edition of our Trivia Night @ the Museum on Thursday, June 13 at 7 p.m. In honor of the beginning of the Korean War in 1950, our topic will be the 1950s or also known as "The Fabulous Fifties." Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you would like to attend.
As part of New York State's Path Through History Weekend on Saturday, June 15, the Holland Land Office Museum will be hosting a Military Timeline and Encampment featuring reenactors from many different time periods and conflicts from the history of the United States and New York. The event features an outdoor encampment in addition to indoor displays featuring equipment, weapons, and other artifacts. Visitors can interact with soldiers and sailors from the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Civil War, Spanish-American War, etc., and learn more about the life of a military man throughout time, their equipment, and the conflicts that they fought in. The museum itself will also be open as well, featuring exhibits relating to the local history of Genesee County. The event and museum will be open from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Museum admission is $5 for adults, $3 veterans/seniors/students, $1 for children, and $10 for a family of four.
The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next edition of its Guest Speaker Series on Thursday, June 20 at 7 p.m. Daisy Nicosia, the Curator/Archivist of the Seneca Falls Historical Society, will be presenting "To the Men of Enterprise & Capital: The Settling of Early New York." Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you plan to attend.
"When people do research, especially in the Central New York area, one question that they always ask is what are military land grants? How did settlers end up in Western New York state? “To Men of Enterprise and Capital” will go over the settling of early New York State, starting briefly with early colonists and indigenous tribes before expanding into the settlement of Western and Central New York." "This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by GO ART!"
The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next edition of our Java with Joe E morning coffee series on Thursday, June 27 at 9 a.m. Our Director, Ryan Duffy, will be presenting on the "Agrarian Opposition to the Holland Land Company," which details the conventions established in the late 1810s through the 1830s across Western New York in opposition to the policies' perception of the Holland Land Company. Admission is free with coffee and cookies. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you would like to attend. Thank you to Pub Hub Coffee for sponsoring Java with Joe for 2024.
The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next edition of its Concert Series on Friday, June 28 at 7 p.m. Don Dwyer will be playing "The Music of the Women of the Civil War." The program includes songs either written or inspired by women in the 1850s and 1860s. Admission is $5 or $4 for museum members. If you plan to attend, please contact the museum at 585-343-4727. "This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by GO ART!"
An 81-year-old man whom investigators believe was injured during an attempted burglary of his residence on Tuesday morning reportedly exchanged gunfire with a deputy who responded to 7924 Lewiston Road at 3:41 a.m. to a reported burglary.
Neither the deputy nor the resident, identified as Gregory Poole, were injured in the incident.
According to the Sheriff's Office, a deputy -- not identified -- responded to the call and was approaching the home when he confronted a person outside the residence. The deputy identified himself, and the person fired a gunshot in the direction of the deputy. The deputy returned fire while continuing to identify himself, but the person continued to fire his gun.
The deputy took cover and called for backup.
Upon the arrival of a second deputy, the person was taken into custody without further incident.
The Sheriff's Office says that neither the deputy nor the subject were struck by gunfire, and neither sustained an injury as a result of the gunfire.
The type of firearm used by the subject has not been released.
Poole was reportedly injured in a struggle with the burglary suspect.
It's believed the burglary suspect fled the scene before the deputy arrived. The area was searched, but the suspect was not located.
Once Poole was released from the hospital, he was charged with reckless endangerment in the first degree and menacing a police officer. He was arraigned and released on his own recognizance.
The Sheriff's Office states that the investigation into both the burglary and the gunfire is ongoing.
Batavia PD is investigating a burglary at Batavia Marine and Sporting Supply Store, 411 West Main St., that occurred during the early morning hours of May 27.
Patrol officers responded to a burglary alarm at 2:30 a.m. and, upon arrival, discovered evidence of forced entry into the building.
Further investigation revealed that the property was taken from the building.
The police did not release the nature of the property taken.
Detectives responded to the scene to gather additional evidence.
Anyone with any information regarding the incident is asked to contact Detective Jason Ivison by calling 585-345-6350 or submitting by clicking here.
Batavia Marine has operated by appointment only since July.
Deep Blue Pool & Spa: Dominick Camelio, partner; Rich Pfreedom, service tech; Cory Bater, service tech; and Brian Bater, partner. Photo by Howard Owens.
When you want to take a dip in a pool or grill hot dogs, rain isn't your friend.
But a bit of precipitation didn't dampen the spirits on Saturday of Dominick Comelio and Brian Bater, who were celebrating the 20th anniversary of their business, Deep Blue Pool and Spa, located at 4152 W Main Street Road, Batavia (Valu Plaza).
Bater said it's been a good business, especially in Batavia.
"I started working for Danny Dugan at Denny's Pool World in 1984," Bater said. "He was kind of my mentor. Along the way, Dominick and I started a service business called BNR Pool Service. We opened that around 1990. We did all the service work for 15 years, and then we decided to go into the retail side of it. Now, we continue to have a large service department, and we also do the retail side."
The first location was in Warsaw, and within two years, Comelio and Bater moved their location in Batavia. In 2010, they decided to expand and opened a store in Henrietta.
"We decided (a couple of years later) it was too much for us," Bater said. "We wanted to consolidate back down and focus on the Batavia region and our customer base here."
Camelio said he's enjoyed the pool business.
"It's fun, it's exciting. There's always something new to work on and make people happy," Camelio said.
Grace Campbell and Kyle Bater Photo by Howard Owens.
