Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for a special edition of our Java with Joe E. morning presentation series on Friday, August 30 at 9 a.m.
Bob Bialkowski will present on the history and restoration process of Batavia’s Rocket Car, those who were responsible for saving the car, and how it ended up at the Pierce Arrow Museum in Buffalo.
Admission is free with coffee and cookies. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you plan to attend. Thank you to Pub Hub Coffee for sponsoring Java with Joe E. for 2024.
The Batavia Muckdogs, City of Batavia Police, and City of Batavia Fire Department have teamed up with Batavia Youth Baseball for their annual Battle of the Badges at Dwyer Stadium on Sunday, August 25 at 5 p.m.
Doors open at 4 p.m., and tickets start at just $10, with proceeds benefiting the Foundation.
This will mark the 4th event for both sides with the Fire Department holding a 2-1 record on the Police Officers with the most recent victory coming from the Police. However, it is the first time the event will benefit Batavia Youth Baseball.
“The City of Batavia Benevolent Fireman’s Association, along with the Batavia Police Benevolent Association are excited to participate in another charity softball game at Dwyer Stadium this year," said Detective James DeFreze, City of Batavia Police Detective.
“It felt very fitting to have our city’s local youth baseball organization benefit from this charity game. We know how important youth sports are to shaping adolescence in our community,” said Nate Flint from the City of Batavia Fire Department.
Dwyer Stadium is happy to host this event and thrilled to organize these events for the community.
Marc Witt, Muckdogs General Manager, stated “This event is always fun and an awesome tradition we started here in Batavia since our company CAN-USA Sports took over the Dwyer Stadium. Glad the Muckdogs organization can help give back to youth baseball as well.”
Tickets are on sale now available through online here. All youth baseball and softball players receive free entry to the event as well. If you own or operate a local business or organization who would like to sponsor the event, please email Marc Witt at mwitt.canusa@gmail.com.
Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM) (“GHM” or the “Company”), a global leader in the design and manufacture of mission critical fluid, power, heat transfer and vacuum technologies for the defense, space, energy, and process industries, today reported financial results for its first quarter for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024 (“fiscal 2025”). Results for the quarter include the P3 Technologies, LLC (“P3”) acquisition, which closed on November 9, 2023.
“We are delivering consistent improvement, solid growth and strengthening profitability,” commented Daniel J. Thoren, President and Chief Executive Officer. “We believe our solid results reflect the commitment and discipline of the GHM team, the confidence our customers have bestowed on us and the effectiveness of our strategy to build better companies. In addition to the visibility our nearly $400 million in backlog provides, it is worth noting that the growth of our defense business has also reduced our economic sensitivity as we receive a steady flow of program renewals and new opportunities with the U.S. Navy. In fact, we will be breaking ground this month on a new 29,000 square foot facility in Batavia, NY to provide production efficiencies, and increased capabilities and capacity to support our defense customer’s needs.”
He concluded, “These are exciting times at Graham Corp. We are steadily advancing our plan, delivering on our targets and are strategically positioning for continued growth.”
Photo of Center Attraction courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.
After winning on the front-end just last week, Center Attraction completely changed strategies but still got the same results in the $13,500 Open pace for fillies and mares at Batavia Downs on Tuesday (Aug. 6) evening.
Jim McNeight Jr. got away last with Center Attraction while Imprincessgemma A (Shawn McDonough) was on the point, jousting with Forgot Thewallet A (Kyle Swift) through quarters of :27.2 and :55.3 over a rain affected track listed as good. When the race came out of turn three, the field started to bunch and Center Attraction had made her way to fifth, second-over on the outside.
Forgot Thewallet A stalled at three-quarters so Center Attraction tipped three-deep around her in the last turn. At the top of the lane, Center Attraction drew even with Imprincessgemma A and then confidently pulled away to the line where she won by a length in 1:56.1.
It was the third win of the year for Center Attraction ($10.80) who is owned by her trainer Robert Anderson, in partnership with Pamela Schieber.
Leading all drivers for wins on Tuesday were Joe Chindano Jr., who had a natural hat trick in races one, two and three and Dave McNeight III, who matched Chindano's output with a natural hat trick of his own in races eight, nine and 10.
Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Wednesday (Aug. 7) at 6 p.m.
Free full card past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.
Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel has announced the tickets are now available for several indoor events happening in the Park Place Event Center in Late Summer and Fall.
On Saturday, August 31, Batavia Downs welcomes Rat Pack Now. This world-class tribute show recaptures the music, style, comedy, and camaraderie of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr. This trio is brought to life by talented artists who together create an unforgettable performance that will wow fans and new listeners alike. Tickets start at $20 and attendees receive $10 in Free Play on the day of the show.
On Saturday, September 7, the annual Vodka, Gin & Potato Fest will take place from 4 - 6 p.m. For $30, attendees will have access to vodka and gin sampling as well as a potato bar station. Attendees receive $15 in free play, free program and $5 wager on that evening’s races at Batavia Downs.
On Saturday, September 14, Forever Seger returns to Batavia Downs. A dynamic journey through the timeless music of Bob Seger features lead singer, Kevin Reid. His authentic vocals, commanding performance and unmistakable 1970’s Seger-look are sure to captures your attention. Tickets start at $15 and attendees receive $10 in Free Play on the day of the show.
On Friday, September 20, join Clonakilty Irish Whiskey for a Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Party. Enjoy a 4 course Irish Meal paired with Clonakilty’s award winning spirits. Staff from Clonakilty will be there to speak about the history of their distillery. Tickets are $60 and include dinner and $30 in Free Play.
Ciders, Seltzers and Sulkies presented by White Claw Hard Seltzer and Bud Light Seltzer will be on, Saturday, September 28. Cost is $30 and includes Seltzer Sampling, Grazing Stations, $15 in Free Play and a $5 wager on Live Racing at Batavia Downs which is happening that night. The event will run from 4 - 6 p.m.
Monday, September 23 Batavia Downs welcomes Fritz’s Polka Band for the 2024 Oktoberfest. This free event will run 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. The Homestretch Grill doors will be open and several polish food specials will be available.
WBBZ’s popular show, Polka Buzz, will tape several shows inside the Park Place Room on Thursday, October 3 with Music from the Buffalo Touch – tickets are $10 and you get back $10 in Free Play.
Batavia Downs’ famous Family Fun Day & Wiener Dog Races will take place on Sunday, October 13. Family related activities will also take place including on site entertainers, kettle corn stand, pumpkin decorating for kids 15 and under, carriage rides, and pony rides which will take place from 12 - 2 p.m. The wiener dog races will begin at 2 p.m.
The 2nd Annual Batavia Bacchus Wine Festival will be happening on Saturday, October 26 from 1 - 3:30 p.m. For $30, attendees will have access to wine sampling from local and national wineries as well as grazing stations. All attendees will receive $15 in free play.
The Batavia Downs Record Riot Vendor Show is Sunday, November 17. Attendees will be able to browse multiple vendor tables to discover a wide selection of vinyl records including rare finds, all while connecting with fellow music lovers. Tickets and details available at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-batavia-downs-record-riot-tickets-871290883487
On Thursday, November 21, The Uncle Louie Variety Show will return again to Batavia Downs. Italian American comedians, Carlo Russo and Lou Greco have delighted audiences at Batavia Downs and across the country! Doors are at 7 p.m. with the event beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20 for VIP tickets and $15 for regular tickets. Ticket holders will receive $10 in Free Play.
The first ever Batavia Downs Beer Crawl takes place on Saturday, November 30. Tickets are just $25 and you get $10 back in Free Play along with a drink ticket for each of Batavia Downs’ 4 bars that are open that day. Attendees will be able to get a drink while they watch live racing, the Buffalo Hockey game and take in the Free Nerds Gone Wild Event that will be taking place that evening.
Tickets for these events will be available at www.BataviaConcerts.com beginning at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, August 6. Hotel Deals for some of these events will go live at that time and links can be found on https://www.bataviadownsgaming.com/hotel-deals/.
Photo of “4-H Master Showman” Participants in the 2024 4-H Livestock Master Showman Contest. From left to right: Ella Christ, Maggie Winspear, Chelsea Lippert, Kennedy Whiting, Jenna Whiting, Payton Shuman, Emma Tanner, Riley Henning, Layla Baker. Submitted photo.
Press Release:
Congratulations to the Genesee County 4-H members who showcased their skills and dedication during the 4-H Livestock Shows at the 2024 Genesee County Fair. The event culminated in the Overall 4-H Livestock Master Showmanship Contest, held on Friday, July 26.
The contest brought together the winners of master showmanship from each individual 4-H livestock show. This year's participants included Ella Christ, Maggie Winspear, Chelsea Lippert, Kennedy Whiting, Jenna Whiting, Payton Shuman, Emma Tanner, Riley Henning, and Layla Baker. Each contestant demonstrated their expertise in handling various livestock species, including some they had little to no experience with.
After several rounds of rigorous showmanship classes, scores were tallied, and Jenna Whiting was named the 2024 Overall 4-H Livestock Master Showman. Her outstanding performance across multiple species highlighted her versatility and commitment to excellence in showmanship.
The Genesee County 4-H Program would like to congratulate all participants for their hard work and achievements. Their dedication continues to inspire and uphold the values of 4-H.
For more information, please contact the Genesee County 4-H Program at 585-343-3040 or genesee4h@cornell.edu.
The New York Sire Stakes return to Batavia Downs on Wednesday (Aug. 7) and will feature 2-year-old male pacers that will go in two divisions for a total purse of $105,000. The 12 pacers will feature two undefeated leaders in the NYSS as well as both holding national ranking.
Travis Alexander’s Thirsty Thursday (Huntsville-Tequila Monday) and Jared Bakos’ Fast Choice (Courtly Choice-Fashion Guru) are mirror images of each other. They are both undefeated with two wins in two lifetime starts that both came in NYSS action with identical best winning times of 1:54.3. And this has them both tied in first for points (100) and earnings ($77,300) in their NYSS category so far this year. Their earnings currently also have them tied as the fifth richest 2-year-old male pacers in North America. And finally, neither one of them raced last week in the NYSS contest at Monticello Raceway.
Since both are undefeated, they have obviously never gone head to head in a race yet and that will be the case once again on Wednesday.
Thirsty Thursday will be in the first $52,500 division and has drawn post two for regular driver Matt Kakaley and the competition will be looking to hand him his first loss.
Courts On Fire (Courtly Choice-Ashlee’s Spitfire) has not missed the board in three career starts, having finished one-two-three in NYSS action to this point. He took his lifetime mark of 1:55.3 just last week at Monticello in a convincing 2-1/4 length romp as the heavy favorite. He is currently third for points (87) and earnings ($54,183) and will look to improve that position here.
Blake Macintosh has Greg Merton aboard from post three.
Meltdown Monte (Huntsville-Sage N) is winless this year but has finished third in two NYSS starts. He has shown to be quite versatile in those two outings and drawing post one will definitely help his chances.
Tyler Buter will steer for trainer Scott Di Domenico.
Fast Choice will start from post one in the second $52,500 split with Doug McNair at the lines. He is coming off a scratch last week at Monticello but will look to regain his momentum against some tough competition.
Silent Weapon (Huntsville-D D Delightful) has hit the board in all three of his lifetime starts and is coming off a 6-1/2 length, 1:54.4 runaway victory at Monticello in NYSS action. He certainly looks like he has just hit his stride and will be more than formidable in this race.
Matt Kakaley will steer for this other Alexander-trained entry and will start from post four.
Groovin Will (Roll With Joe-Who Moved The Rock) won his last start in Excelsior action at Monticello and it was an impressive 1:54.1 lifetime best. He makes the leap to the NYSS here, but does it off the best race of his life and he should be considered a threat.
Trainer Blake Macintosh has Greg Merton between the wheels, who piloted him to victory last week.
The NYSS are carded as race six and eight. There are also three $20,000 Excelsior events programmed as race two, four and 10. Post time for the first race is 6 p.m.
Following the band’s summer tour, which includes an August 9 show at Batavia Downs, they will be headed back into the studio to put together a double CD “legacy” package including greatest hits and new songs. The disc is due out next spring.
“We (the band) are firing on all cylinders,” said Barnes, .38 Special’s longtime lead vocalist and guitar player.
The new songs will sound familiar to fans of the band - and that’s by design, Barnes insists.
“It is a throwback to our style,” Barnes said.
.38 Special came of age in the 1980s following a musical path carved out by such bands as the Outlaws and Marshall Tucker Band, among others. That translates to a healthy mix of old school rock with a southern bent.
“It’s great that we are still vibrant and relevant,” Barnes said. “When we started this, nobody knew how long it was going to last, or if would last, but it did.”
The band’s musical formula has worked and worked well.
.38 Special has made 15 studio albums and sold more than 20 million records. The hits and radio-friendly songs were plenty.
There’s “Hold on Loosely,” “Rocking into the Night” and “Caught Up in You,” among them. Yes, all will be part of .38 Special’s setlist at Batavia Downs.
“To us, it’s about having a good time on stage and taking our fans on a fun ride,” Barnes said. “It has to be fun for the fans and fun for us.”
Besides Barnes, fellow .38 Special band members include Bobby Capps on keyboards, Gary Moffatt on drums, bass player Barry Dunaway, and Jerry Riggs on guitar.
The band plays - on average - 100 shows a year.
"It doesn’t get stale," Barnes said.
Anything but.
“This is the greatest job in the world,” Barnes said. “We love bringing joy to people.”
Workforce, business, education, and economic development officials from across the GLOW region unveiled details at Genesee Construction for the 6th Annual GLOW With Your Hands career exploration festival which will take place at the Genesee County Fairgrounds on Tuesday, September 24. The event will mark the participation of over 5,000 students since the launch of GLOW With Your Hands in 2019.
“For six years, GLOW With Your Hands has ignited career exploration for nearly 5,000 students across our region. On September 24th at the Genesee County Fairgrounds, will once again showcase the exciting and diverse career opportunities in agriculture, food processing, skilled trades, and advanced manufacturing that are thriving right here in our communities,” said Angela Grouse, GLOW With Your Hands Co-Chair.
Officials associated with the 2024 GLOW With Your Hands once again anticipate that over 1,000 students will be in attendance from thirty school districts across the GLOW region. More than sixty vendors have already committed to participate in the annual event which will feature hands-on activities and simulations in the advanced manufacturing, agriculture, food production, skilled trades sectors as well as the various branches of the military.
“At Dansville, we strive to prepare our students for their post-graduation plans. GLOW With Your Hands provides students with exposure to a variety of careers and allows them to speak with professionals in that area of interest. It is not uncommon for 16-18-year-olds to be unsure about their career pathway. Events like this have resulted in students gaining valuable insight into what life as a particular employee in that industry consists of,” said Dave Moodie, Dansville High School Principal.
Each year’s event features new companies, and the September 24th event features Lakeland Concrete Products, a construction company based in Lima, IK Systems, a leading supplier of integrated surveillance & security systems out of Victor, Davis Fetch, a drywall contractor from Rochester, and Zoldaz, a trucking contractor in Alden.
“The participation and response by the private sector in this annual event reaffirm that making students aware of careers right in their own backyard is paying dividends not only for these companies but the region’s economy,” added Jay Lazarony, GLOW With Your Hands Co-Chair. “Students need to know that they can find jobs where they grew up and want to stay and be with family because these jobs are right here.”
One of the participating companies that is experiencing the benefits of making students aware of career opportunities is Genesee Construction which hosted the kickoff event. Through the years, Genesee Construction has provided students with hands-on experiences at the annual event through simulated construction projects.
“Through collaboration with students at GLOW With Your Hands, we are able to identify and interact with the next generation of workforce candidates who possess the skills and passion to explore career opportunities in the construction sector,” said Mary Ellyn Merle Calabrese, Project Manager with Genesee Construction. “The construction industry, in particular, relies on the local workforce pool in our region to fill these good paying and strongly in-demand jobs.”
“GLOW With Your Hands highlights the diverse pathways to success, we showcase careers that are accessible right out of high school, as well as those that require trade training, two-year degrees, or four-year degrees through active local programs. We empower students to make informed decisions about their futures, maximizing their return on investment and minimizing student loan debt,” added Grouse.
GLOW With Your Hands still has room for vendors, sponsors, and volunteers. For more information please, visit https://www.glowwithyourhands.com/contact-us to sign up!
Photo of Stranger Things courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.
A pair of $13,500 Open Handicaps – one on the pace and one on the trot – highlighted the Saturday (Aug. 3) night card at Batavia Downs and both events provided exciting finishes.
In the pacing feature, Stranger Things (Jim Morrill Jr.) tripped out to victory with a fast finish.
Vel Mr. Nice Guy (Joe Chindano Jr.) and Stranger Things lined up one-two off the gate and skated through very soft fractions of :28.2 and :58.2 before Scribblers (Kyle Swift) led the charge on the outside heading into turn three. Chindano picked up the pace with Vel Mr. Nice Guy with a :27.4 third quarter and that erased Scribblers advance. But as that one faded around the final bend, it gave Stranger Things a clear path from the pocket to the middle of the track. At the top of the stretch, Morrill simply loose-lined Stranger Things who then just paced right buy Vel Mr. Nice Guy on his own to win by one-half length in 1:54.2.
It was the second win in the last three starts for Stranger Things ($12.80) who is owned by Kathy Schoeffel and James Reuther and trained by Angelo Nappo.
Morrill ended the night with a grand slam in the bike as he also won with Tiger Baron (1:54.3, $2.50), Sleeping Single (1:55.4, $4.80) and Stay Safe (1:59.3, $2.30).
Then in the top trot, Power And Grace (Drew Monti) hung tough late to beat the boys and claim her 65th career victory.
E Street (Kevin Cummings) grabbed the front first and yielded to Power And Grace at the :27.2 quarter. But as soon as she seated, Crazy Ritz (Jim McNeight Jr.) took the lead from her as they trotted past three-eights. But immediately, Monti pulled Power And Grace back out at the half and went back to the top, and this time for good. E Street pulled back out from third in the clubhouse turn and trotted alongside Crazy Ritz in second to three-quarters in 1:26.4. But that bid failed leaving Crazy Ritz clear to take his best shot. He pulled heading into the stretch and incrementally drew alongside Power And Grace. Both horses dug in for the line but Power And Grace was too good and hung on to win in 1:56.4.
It was the ninth win of the year and 65th Lifetime victory for Power And Grace ($6.00) who is owned by Hartel Maintenance, Lormer McClure, Brett Macdonald and Reg Higgs. Ronald Macdonald trains the 9-year-old daughter of Holiday Road-Mark Of Honour who has hit the board in 71% of her 202 career starts and sports a lifetime win percentage of 32%.
Monti scored the hat trick at the lines after also winning with I’m Already Gone (1:55.3, $13.40) and Maskedman (1:55.4, $4.40).
Sam Smith led all trainers on Saturday with two wins.
Photo of Gaston Guindon courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.
Batavia Downs driving legend Gaston Guindon visited the track on Saturday and he was greeted by throngs of fans who vividly recalled his decades of driving dominance over the Genesee County oval. Guindon topped the local driver colony throughout the 1980’s and 90’s while winning many driving titles there during that time. The native of Buckingham, Quebec that made western New York his home for many years, left an indelible mark on the local harness racing scene while setting a standard of driving excellence that is still revered today. Guindon’s 3,080 wins and $7 million in purses highlighted a career that wrapped up in 2004 when “The Gasser” officially retired.
Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Tuesday (Aug. 6) at 6 p.m. and there will be a $1,004 carryover in the Super Hi-5 in race 12.
Free full card past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.
Photo of Power And Grace courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.
Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM) (“GHM” or “the Company”), a global leader in the design and manufacture of mission critical fluid, power, heat transfer, and vacuum technologies for the defense, space, energy, and process industries, today announced that it was awarded three contracts with a combined value of over $65 million.
Matthew Malone, Vice President, Graham Corporation and General Manager - Barber-Nichols, commented, “We believe the investments we have made in our engineering and operations to expand our capacity and increase our capabilities to serve the defense and space industries led to our being awarded these contracts. We differentiated our solutions through our strong customer relationships, engineering expertise, precision manufacturing capabilities and rigorous testing and qualification processes. Our solutions are vital components that meet the high-level performance requirements for mission critical applications. We appreciate our customers’ confidence to select us for these high-value projects.”
Wedding gowns have changed over the decades, reflecting the times from the Victorian Era, Industrial Revolution, WW I, The Depression, WWII, the 50s, the 60s, and the 70s. The decade of the 70s is what I will focus on since that was the decade I was married in Batavia, NY.
There are so many events that go into a wedding. Everyone has a memory of their engagement, wedding day, and honeymoon. I became engaged in my in-laws' living room, surrounded by my future in-laws and my two younger sisters. I wouldn't change a thing. My engagement ring now has two more diamond bands, one for 25 years and one for 40 years.
I cherish the memory of picking out my wedding gown with my mom. It had to be at C. L. Carr's Department Store. I went in with a picture of the gown I wanted from Brides Magazine. I was so surprised to see my gown on the rack. I tried it on, ordered my size, and was lucky to have benefitted from one of C.L. Carr's discount days.
After purchasing my gown, veil, and headpiece for $135, my mom and I went to lunch at another favorite restaurant, The Dagwood.
The description of my gown from the local newspaper stated, "The bride chose a gown of Marcaine Jersey styled with a fitted bodice, bell-shaped skirt, and long full sleeves. Venice lace and pearls accented the V neckline, and matching lace highlighted the empire bodice. The skirt fell in an A-length train. The bride chose a Camelot cap, a cathedral-length veil, and blusher for her headpiece."
I just wanted something plain, and the gown was perfect. I borrowed a wedding slip from my best friend, bought my shoes at Thomas and Dwyer, and flowers from Noack's Nursery on Bank Street.
Bridesmaid gowns were plain but timeless for the 70s, halter gowns with a short jacket and a hood. I applied my makeup. Like many brides of the 70s, my hair was long and straight, as was the fashion. It was styled at North Vine Beauty Salon. My father and brothers organized the bachelor get-together at St. Nick's Club. I don't think we gathered for a bachelorette.
The gifts I bought my girls were spoon rings and bracelets, another reflection of the times from Herb Brenner on Main Street.
I carried the wedding missel, a prayer book that my mom had held for her wedding. My brother read the poem Desiderata, and my wedding Mass ended with a favorite song of mine, "Let There Be Peace on Earth."
The Polish-Italian reception was held at the Moose Lodge Club. We had a Polish band that played in the early morning hours.
Our honeymoon was in St. Martins, and we booked our honeymoon at a kiosk in C L Carrs.
We were married at St. Joseph Church. Today weddings are so different and so expensive!
The material from my gown could probably make three wedding gowns. What I loved about our wedding was that after the three-course dinner, I cut the cake, danced, and enjoyed pizza from Pontillo's, delivered for a late snack.
On July 27, 2024, we renewed our vows at what we will always call Sacred Heart Church, surrounded by our children, grandchildren, family, and friends. The Mass ended with the same song that ended our wedding Mass in 1974, "Let There Be Peace on Earth." A reception at Roman's restaurant followed, and KMC Custom Cakes served a wedding cake. Fifty years of living with the man who stole my heart at Gentner's Bar in 1972! It has been an incredible ride.
The Holland Land Office has a wedding exhibit called "Heavenly Traditions and Holy Matrimony Through Time." It is an exhibit you don't want to miss. You might even see my wedding veil on display.
The Genesee County Highway Department would like to inform the public about an upcoming road closure on Upton Road in the Town of Batavia.
Beginning Monday, August 12, the road will be closed to all traffic for approximately 8 weeks. The existing culvert will be replaced to improve water flow under the road and ensure its long-term sustainability.
The project will take place on the north end of Upton Road, between Pearl Street Road(Route 33) and Rose Road.
During this time, this portion of Upton Road will be closed entirely to traffic, including public and emergency vehicles.
The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) board of directors has approved final resolutions for Graham Corporation’s $17.6 million expansion in the city of Batavia and GE Bergen Owner, LLC’s $43.6 million project in the town of Bergen at its board meeting on Thursday, August 1, 2024.
Graham Corporation proposes to build a 28,867 square-foot commercial production facility. The $17.6 million project will create 24 new full-time equivalent (FTE) positions while retaining 367 FTEs.
Graham Corporation requested sales tax exemptions estimated at $383,546 and a property tax abatement estimated at $298,427 based on an incremental increase in assessed value.
The proposed incentives are estimated to generate $19.5 million in wages/benefits and revenues for local governments generated by the developer over 10 years. The project would generate a $42 return on investment for every $1 of proposed incentives.
GE Bergen Owner, LLC proposes to build a 196,000 square-foot manufacturing facility at Apple Tree Acres. The $43.6 million project will be leased to an end user and will create 60 new FTEs and retain 140 FTEs.
GE Bergen Owner, LLC requested sales tax exemptions estimated at approximately $1.75 million, a property tax abatement of approximately $2.15 million via payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT), and a mortgage tax exemption of $366,000.
"The GCEDC is pleased to continue to support the growth of our home-grown companies," said GCEDC President and CEO Mark Masse. "These projects strengthen the diversity and vitality of our manufacturing industry and generate more rewarding careers for our community."
The proposed incentives are estimated to generate $41 million in wages/ benefits and revenues for local governments generated by the development over 10 years. The project would generate a $13 return on investment for every $1 of proposed incentives.
The project is pending, subject to receiving incentives from Empire State Development Corporation.
The GCEDC Board also advanced initial resolutions for two community solar farm projects in LeRoy.
FFP NY LeRoy Project1, LLC and FFP NY LeRoy Project2, LLC represent a total $20 million investment and will generate up to 7 megawatts of power through the installation of ground-mounted solar panels.
FFP NY LeRoy Project1, LLC’s proposed $13.5 million project would generate $4,000/megawatts (AC) + a 2% annual escalator of revenues with the Town of LeRoy, Genesee County and LeRoy School District. The project also includes a host agreement with the Town of LeRoy and is estimated to generate a $566,261 increase in property-tax type revenues to the host municipalities.
FFP NY LeRoy Project2, LLC’s proposed $6.5 million project also would generate $4,000 per megawatt (AC) + a 2% annual escalator of revenues with the Town of LeRoy, Genesee County and LeRoy School District. The project also includes a host agreement with the Town of LeRoy and is estimated to generate a $229,119 increase in property-tax type revenues to host municipalities.
A public hearing for the proposed project agreements will be scheduled in the town of LeRoy.
Zak and Abby Jantzi, the first married couple to combine for wins in both the male and female divisions in the GLOW Corporate Cup. Photo by Howard Owens.
Zak and Abby Jantzi, representing Bontrager Auction and Real Estate, on Thursday, became the first married couple in GLOW Corporate Cup history to combine for wins in the male and female divisions.
Zak, who also won in 2023 and placed second in 2022, finished in first place with a time of 16:15. Abby topped all female competitors with a time of 20:41.
"We love this race," Zak said. This is, I think, our third year. Bontrager has been really competitive with it. I feel like it's sort of like the main event on our calendar. We're both post-collegiate runners, so just doing community events is really great for us. It's something that, as a couple, we really enjoy to run and train, so it's really just a great event to enjoy."
The first GLOW Corporate Cup was in 2014. It is a fundraiser for the YMCA. Besides the race, the event features a picnic in Centennial Park, called After GLOW, with each participating company setting up a tent and sharing in a meal.
More than 800 runners and walkers signed up for the event this year, said key organizer Steve Tufts, a broker with a primary corporate sponsor, Merrill Lynch.
"I'm really thrilled that we're practically back to where we were (before the pandemic)," Tufts said. "We didn't have a race in 2020. Most races across the country took about 40% hit on participation. We only took 20% in 2021. ... We're looking for it to be another record again next year."
There is no accurate count on how many people were present for the After GLOW, which includes company employees who didn't run and family members, but this year's music entertainment, the Fleetwood Mac tribute band Songbirds drew an unprecedented crowd—at least 100 people not affiliated with any of the participating businesses. No previous bands have anywhere near that draw.
"Our first responsibility is to raise funds for the YMCA," Tufts said. "They're the beneficiary of all our efforts. So, our goal is to make sure we raise adequate funds (for the Y). The secondary goal might be, as you said, benefit to the general community, whether it's a free concert or whatnot. There is no Picnic in the Park any more. Maybe that'll come back some day. I think people miss that. And maybe live music. Maybe there's another company out there in the Batavia/GLOW region that would like to take on another project. We certainly encourage other companies to do something."
With Abby Jantzi's win, an interesting streak among female winners was broken. It's the first time since at least 2015 that a woman with a name other than Kimberly won the female division.
Kimberly Mills has won the race seven times, including in 2023 (Abby finished second in 2023 and 2022). Kimberly Vona, with Batavia Downs, won in 2018 and 2017. Mills did not run this year nor in 2018. She came in second in 2017. Records for the 2014 race are not available online and The Batavian, in its coverage of 2014, did not include the name of the female winner.
In the male division, Zak joins two other men who have won in consecutive years. Collen Mulcahy won in 2016, 2017, and 2018. John Schnitter also recorded consecutive wins in 2019 and 2021 (there was no race in 2020).
YWCA of Genesee County Executive Director Jamie Rada, left, and volunteer Judy Fuller. Photo by Howard Owens.
There have been a few homes for My Sister’s Closet at YWCA of Genesee County over the years, and a new leadership not only celebrated the latest venue that accommodates more clothing but also frees up space for additional staff and offerings, Executive Director Jamie Rada says.
Rada was hired in September 2023 with a personal and professional goal to support and improve the lives of the most vulnerable populations, a goal she has begun to manifest through a community food pantry, an expanded clothing and accessories closet and additional prevention educators for the Batavia agency.
“So the purpose of this move was that Pathstone used to be down here, and when they moved out, it was double the space of the closet that we used to have. So that gave us the ability to increase the amount of clothing we have, and help more women in the community. The great thing with this closet is none of the money that supports domestic violence went to the renovations. Jagged Edges, who is here today, donated the money for us to redo this closet,” Rada said Thursday during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the North Street site. “And also what this does by being down here, it gives us the opportunity to use the old closet for crisis counseling services and prevention education. So we'll be able to help more people in the community.
“We've been told by a lot of people that crisis counseling is something that's really needed in this community. So we just got a grant for that. We're very excited,” she said. “And we just got a grant for prevention educators. So we'll have a couple of new staff that will be going in the old closet (space). And then where My Sister's Closet clothing was, where we would do the drop-offs, is now a Community Food Pantry. So that is opening August 16.”
The agency will work with Foodlink to supply the food pantry and, in turn, the community. Rada estimates that this will assist 200 to 250 families a month.
As for My Sister’s Closet, Rada describes it as “a consignment store,” but one that doesn’t look or smell like you’re walking into a secondhand shop.
“It looks like a boutique,” she said. “Because a lot of the people who come here may have a lot of other stuff going on in their lives, we want them to feel dignified, we want them to feel like this is a nice place to come. So anybody from the community is welcome to come. And we do have many people who come into the community to shop here.
“But also any women that are in our program for domestic violence, they shop for free. We help them with outfits for interviews. If they're going to try to get a job, we help them because a lot of times, women will come here with nothing but the clothes on their back if they're trying to get out of a situation,” she said. “So we always help them with new clothes as well. So that's why this closet is so important to us.”
Amanda Lowe and her team at Jagged Edges Salon in Batavia donated the funds for a closet makeover, and salon staff was on hand to help with the grand reopening.
Judy Fuller, one of YWCA’s 2024 Women of Inspiration award recipients honored for volunteering many hours coordinating and managing My Sister’s Closet, lovingly calls the place “my baby.”
“It helps the community, it helps women get back on their feet, and it helps DV women. It’s here for them, and they come in and get very slightly used or brand new clothing for free or at a good price.”
She enjoys the direct customer interactions and helping out women who stop by to shop, Fuller said.
“It makes me feel good that they can come in, and it gives them some feeling of pride like they’re not being charities to them, that they’re actually getting something at My Sister’s Closet,” she said.
For hours and more information, go to ywcagenesee.org.
Photo of Howlenthehills courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.
Press Release:
Two $57,000 divisions of New York Sire Stake 3-year-old pacing colts and geldings lined up at Batavia Downs on Wednesday (July 31) evening and a pair of heavily favored Travis Alexander trainees, Howlenthehills (American Ideal-Arielle Lynn) and Huntingforchrome (Huntsville-All On Top Hanover), who were directed by driver Matt Kakaley, put on impressive performances to secure victories in both contests.
In the first event, Howlenthehills maintained his control from post one and led the field that lined up in post position order through quarters of :28.2, :57.4 and 1:26.1 without any provocations from behind. Halfway through the final turn, Boston Rocks (Jason Bartlett) vacated the garden spot and took his best shot at the leader. But after Boston Rocks got within a length at the top of the stretch, Howlenthehills simply pulled away under a line drive by Kakaley to win in 1:53.3.
It was the third straight win and eighth win in the last nine starts for Howlenthehills ($3.40) who has now earned $268,850 this year for owner Symmetry Stable.
Then in the second split, Huntingforchrome got away last by almost 10 lengths as Vandiemen Bluechip (Braxton Boyd) called the shots on top. While Taranaki (Kevin Cummings) was breathing down his back, Vandiemen Bluechip backed down the half to a tepid :58.3 while stacking up the field before they all entered the third turn.
When the group moved past five-eighths, Brett Beckwith pulled the right line on Ameritric from fourth and Huntingforchrome followed as the pace quickened to three-quarters in :28 flat. Then as they moved through the final bend, Ameritric could not gain ground on Vandiemen Bluechip so Kakaley tipped Huntingforchrome three-high as they entered the stretch. From there, Huntingforchrome closed out a sparkling :26.4 final quarter by bolting for home under no urging whatsoever to win by 1-½ lengths in 1:53.4.
It was the second win in the last four starts for Huntingforchrome ($2.10) who is owned by NY Seb Inc.
Howlenthehills and Huntingforchrome were both bred by Crawford Farms.
There were also three $20,000 Excelsior races on the card and one of them went faster than both NYSS events.
Escape To America (American Ideal-Flirtiscape) won easily in 1:53.1 for driver Jason Bartlett and trainer Deborah Daguet for owners/breeders John Darrah and Lawrence Keethe.
Bruce’s Vo N Coke (Huntsville-Better Chill Out) won in 1:54.1 with Bartlett also in the bike for trainer John Berger and owner/breeder Joe Meany.
Printville (Huntsville-Thumbprint) scored in 1:53.3 for driver Brett Beckwith and trainer George Ducharme for owner Purple Haze Stables. John Newman bred the winner.
Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Saturday (Aug. 3) at 6 p.m.
Free full card past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.
Photo of Huntingforchrome courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.
Patrick Privatera of Village Physical Therapy has partnered with New England-based Cypress Health to form MVPT Physical Therapy. Submitted Photo
In an ever-changing business climate in the medical system, Patrick Privatera has rolled with the times since first establishing Village Physical Therapy in 1998 in Le Roy, opening an office in Wayne County in 2003, acquiring Sports Plus in 2009, moving into a third location in Batavia in 2014, and now, a decade later, making yet another move.
Privatera has partnered with Cypress Health MVPT, which became official this past week. Cypress has acquired his practice, while Privatera focuses more on his primary role as director of injury prevention services.
“That’s been full-time, and then I’ve also been managing three offices and running a business. So basically, two-thirds of my burden has been lifted off my shoulders because I have an organization in Cypress that’s helped us; it’s gonna help us do that. But then I get to focus on something that I’m more interested in clinically. So it’s kind of a win-win in that regard,” he said Wednesday to The Batavian. “In terms of selecting another organization to partner with and succeed us, I really feel like we couldn't have asked for a better fit than MVPT. I feel like we are very much aligned in our values and what we care about, which is just great patient care and being great community partners. I think that there are a lot of places, especially in physical therapy, that are just trying to do more of the same thing. And I think MVPT is really trying to, in every way, get better at doing what we're doing and not just do more of the same, but try and grow and develop as an organization and as individuals.
“I feel like we're very fortunate to create this partnership with an organization like that,” he said. I’m really excited—for our staff, for our patients and for myself.”
Most of his 28-member staff and hours at the Le Roy, Batavia and Wayne County sites have remained the same, except that Le Roy also included a fitness center that is no longer part of the new collaboration. Physical therapy is the primary focus, so Privatera worked with a local company, Ladies First Fitness, to take on many of his senior clients to avoid having any gap in services, he said.
His role will continue as director of injury prevention services, which means that he will examine company employees with a fresh perspective and evaluate their work situations to reduce or eliminate job-related injuries.
Doing that job while operating the business, with all of the pressures that come with it, has made being in business “a lot less fun,” he said, while handing off those detailed responsibilities makes it “a lot more rewarding.”
Cypress Health Partners launched a major expansion in New York State at the beginning of this year, extending its physical therapy services from throughout New England into Upstate New York.
Cypress Health partnered with Sports PT of New York and joined the MVPT Physical Therapy brand. Founder Lynn Steenberg, who was praised for continually demonstrating a commitment to delivering great access to care, fantastic patient experience and incredible clinical outcomes, is the regional director for the network of more than 120 physical therapist-owned and locally operated clinics.
Privatera had leased an office in Webster during the pandemic, and after he decided to let that go, Sports PT took it over, and he met up with Cypress Health Partners. They kept talking for about the next two years, and when it came down to it, “I had an awful lot on my plate,” Privatera said, including the realization of how many practitioners had put much thought into how to open a practice but then didn’t have a great exit, or retirement plan at the other end.
“I’m 51 now, so I'm not at retirement age, but I've watched a lot of people — there are a lot of physical therapists in this area that are probably 10 or 20 years older than me — and I've watched an awful lot of them never contemplate the possibility they wouldn't be doing what they're doing forever, you know. Everybody's got a plan to get into business, but they, a lot of times, people don't have a plan to get out of business and retire and all that kind of thing. And particularly when you're the owner of a practice, that can become difficult. So, I didn't want that to be my story, I didn't want to be in a position where I had to sell or I couldn't carry on,” he said. “And so … I had been trying to create a succession plan, basically what would happen when we were ready to step back. And, you know, I wanted to make sure I had given some thought and planned that so that we could do it on our terms when we were ready. And I think in Cypress, we found an organization that really shares our values, they're very community centered, they're patient care centered.”
Other factors included the cost of doing business, with labor prices going up, competition from larger healthcare systems getting swifter and hungrier—“gobbling up” the available workforce—and revenue from services about half what it used to be 20 years ago when you adjust for inflation, he said.
“The trend is payments are going down, down down, and labor is going up, up, up,” he said. “The payments for PT services in New York State is probably 30% below the the national average across the country. We should, by rights, have no difficulty hiring graduates (with the nearby colleges and universities) … but what’s happening is, as soon as these kids graduate, they get out of New York, they’re leaving because they can go and make, in some cases, twice as much money elsewhere. So it’s really, really hard to attract and retain good, young physical therapists for this area, even though there’s a plethora of academic programs churning them out.”
The upside is being able to still provide three sites — two local sites in Genesee County — with quality, trained staff and similar hours, he said. Not much has changed for the clients, other than a new logo and the removal of the fitness component to the Le Roy facility. That is “a loss for the community,” Privatera said, which is why he worked with the nearby Ladies First to accommodate his clients.
“That was important to us. And I’m trying to hire another therapist at the Batavia site, we’ve gotten really busy, and we’re looking to expand our staff there,” he said, giving a nod to his partner’s core beliefs. “Their mantra here is to basically say, hey, what do we need to do a really great job, and they want to support that. So, all the people behind the scenes that are based in Boston are really trying to help support us do a really great job with with our patients. I'm really excited about the resources that they will bring to our organization and our team. I'm just really excited about what we'll be able to accomplish together.
“I think there's a lot of upsides for this. I can certainly understand, especially in a small community like Le Roy and Batavia, where people would be understandably skeptical of a larger organization coming in,” he said. “But I think that this is a larger organization with a small-town focus. And I don't think people should be concerned in any way. In fact, I think they're really lucky to be able to have a resource like this in their back yard.”
MVPT Physical Therapy has locations at 5 Alva Place, Batavia, 3 West Ave., Le Roy, and 1218 Mayberry Place, Macedon.
Reed Marcum on the mound for Batavia in the sixth inning. Photo by Howard Owens.
The Elmira Pioneers entered the fourth inning of Wednesday's rain-suspended West Division championship game ready to hit.
Matt Misiti, who tossed three innings on Tuesday before the downpour started, returned to the mound and recorded only one out while surrendering three runs, giving Elmira a 3-2 lead.
On the regular season, Misti was 4-0 with a 1.36 ERA 34 strikeouts.
The Pioneers scored again in the fifth and added on two more in the ninth to take the division title 6-3.
Trevor Dutra, who homed on Tuesday as part of a Muckdogs two-run third inning and gave Batavia the lead before the rain started, was 2-3 in the game.
The Muckogs had a regular season record of 34-8 while Elmira was 24-18.
Elmira next faces the Amsterdam Mohawks (35-7 in the regular season) for the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League championship.
Since entering the league in 2021, the Muckdogs have finished 22-19 (third place), 30-15, 27-16, and this year, 34-8. This season represents the third straight year that Batavia has finished with the best record in the West Division.
Photos by Howard Owens
Photo by Howard Owens.
Skipper Joey Martinez heading to the mound in the seventh inning for a pitching change. Photo by Howard Owens.
The legal particularities of what evidence may be used at trial were the focus on Wednesday of a pair of hearings for defendants implicated in the death of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello during a confrontation at Batavia Downs on March 10.
At issue is the legal sufficiency of a 710.30 notice, which refers to a portion of Criminal Procedure Law requiring the prosecution to provide notice to the defense of statements made by defendants to public officers.
The defense argues that District Attorney Kevin Finnell didn't provide enough detail in the 710.30 notice to alert them to which statements of their clients captured by police officer body-worn cameras might be used at trial.
County Court Judge Donald O'Geen pressed them on whether the detail they requested was really necessary, given that they received all of the body-worn camera footage obtained by the DA's office. He questioned whether it was realistic for the DA to be completely sure of which statements he might use at this state of the proceedings.
Both attorneys argued that the notices required more detail.
Finnell argued that he might very well use all of the video in question at trial, so the notice he filed provided sufficient information for the defense to prepare for trial.
The defendants are Michael J. Elmore and Lyndsey J. Wilcox. Elmore is charged with multiple charges for his alleged attack on Sanfratello, including aggravated manslaughter in the first degree, and Wilcox also faces several charges, including burglary and assault (full list of charges at the end of this story).
Elmore is represented by Joseph A. Lobosco, and Wilcox is represented by Daniel Dubois and James Vacca.
The hearing on Wednesday morning was the next stage of the process that is likely to lead to criminal trials early next year for Elmore and possibly Wilcox (unless there is a plea agreement). At this stage, defense attorneys make motions, the people (prosecution) file their answering affidavits, then the judge hears limited oral arguments (the purpose of Wednesday's hearing) and then the judge reviews the motions and arguments and issues a ruling.
Lobosco also moved to dismiss the grand jury indictment against Elmore because, in his view, the DA asked too many leading questions (assertions rather than open-ended questions) during grand jury testimony.
"This tainted the entire grand jury process," Lobosco argued.
Finnell defended the grand jury testimony by noting that supposed leading questions were just drawing attention to portions of video and asking witnesses to affirm the accuracy of the video.
The other important issue for Dubois and Vacca in representing Wilcox was the validity of the burglary charge. The burglary charge is predicated on the assertion that a person remained unlawfully on private property after being asked to leave with the intent to commit another crime.
Vacca argued that a review of the surveillance video shows that Sanfratello confronted Elmore, Wilcox and a third party inside of Rush 34, one of the bars inside of Batavia Downs, and apparently informed them they needed to leave the facility. The video indicates Wilcox was cooperative and complying and is seen at one point, standing aside and laughing and joking with a female security guard. She then, he said, walks ahead of Sanfratello while being escorted out of the facility. Near the front door, there is, according to Vacca, an inadvertent brush of hands between Wilcox and Sanfratello.
Wilcox reacts to this and hits Sanfratello, so Sanfratello takes her to the ground and places her in handcuffs. It is after she is in cuffs that Elmore allegedly attacks Sanfratello.
Dubois argued that Wilcox should not be charged with assault based on the video evidence. That her actions constitution, at most, a violation of the harassment statute.
None of this, the attorneys argue, supports the assertion that Wilcox formed an intent to stay in the building in order to commit a crime.
Finnell countered that the action of Wilcox constituted resisting arrest and that her hitting Sanfratello became assault because he was a police officer conducting his official duties. He also argued that it isn't possible to know when Sanfratello's heart emergency, which eventually led to his death, started. It could have started, he said, during the confrontation with Wilcox.
O'Geen is expected to issue a ruling before the next court appearances for Elmore and Wilcox on Aug. 23.
Both defendants remain in custody.
Elmore was indicted by the Grand Jury on counts of:
Aggravated manslaughter in the first degree, a Class B felony. He is accused of intending to cause serious physical injury to a police officer and, as result, causing the death of a police officer;
Aggravated criminally negligent homicide, a Class C violent felony. He is accused of causing the death of Sanfratello with criminal negligence;
Assault in the first degree, a Class B violent felony. Elmore is accused of causing the death of Sanfratello while in the commission of another crime, burglary in the second degree;
Burglary in the second degree, a Class C violent felony. He is accused of knowingly entering a building unlawfully with the intent to commit a crime in the building and threatening to use or did use a dangerous instrument.
Elmore and Wilcox are indicted on counts of:
Burglary in the second degree, a Class C violent felony. Elmore and Wilcox are accused of remaining unlawfully in a building with the intent to commit a crime in the building and, while in the building, causing serious physical injury to another person;
Assault in the second degree, a Class D violent felony. Elmore and Wilcox are accused of causing physical injury to a police officer who was in the act of performing his official duties;
Obstruction of governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. The pair is accused of trying to intentionally prevent a police officer from performing his official duty by means of intimidation, physical force, or interference.
