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Tompkins Financial Corp. reports record earnings, approves cash dividend, OKs stock repurchase program

By Billie Owens

Press release:

ITHACA -- Tompkins Financial Corporation (NYSE American: TMP), parent company of Tompkins Bank of Castile, Tompkins Insurance Agencies, and Tompkins Financial Advisors, has reported record year-to-date and second quarter earnings.

The company also has announced that its Board of Directors approved payment of a regular quarterly cash dividend, and has authorized a new stock repurchase program.

Tompkins Financial Corporation announced Monday that its Board of Directors approved payment of a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.50 per share, payable on May 15, 2019, to common shareholders of record on May 7, 2019.

Tompkins Financial Corporation is a financial services company serving the Central, Western, and Hudson Valley regions of New York and the Southeastern region of Pennsylvania.

Headquartered in Ithaca, Tompkins Financial is parent to Tompkins Trust Company, Tompkins Bank of Castile, Tompkins Mahopac Bank, Tompkins VIST Bank, Tompkins Insurance Agencies Inc., and offers wealth management services through Tompkins Financial Advisors. For more information on Tompkins Financial, visit www.tompkinsfinancial.com.

Tompkins Financial Corporation reported net income of $21.0 million for the first quarter of 2019, an increase of 3.0 percent from the $20.4 million reported for the same period in 2018. Diluted earnings per share were $1.37 for the first quarter of 2019, a 3.0 percent increase from $1.33 reported for the first quarter of 2018.

President and CEO Stephen S. Romaine said “We are excited to start 2019 with the best first quarter in our Company's history. Growth in loans and deposits, higher fee income, and improved credit quality all contributed to the improved results in 2019.

"During the quarter we celebrated the grand opening of our office in Amherst. This is our first office in the Buffalo market and provides banking, wealth management and insurance services."

Selected highlights for first quarter:

•      Diluted earnings per share of $1.37 represent the best first quarter in Company history, and are up 3.0 percent over the same period in 2018

•      Total loans of $4.8 billion were up 1.8 percent over the same period in 2018

•      Total deposits of $5.0 billion reflect an increase of 1.2 percent over the same period last year

•      Total nonperforming loans were down 8.9 percent compared to the same period last year, and down 13.6 percentfrom Dec. 31, 2018

•      Tangible book value per share is up 14.4 percent from the first quarter of 2018 and reflects the fifth consecutive quarterly increase

NET INTEREST INCOME

The net interest margin was 3.34 percent for the first quarter of 2019, flat compared to the fourth quarter of 2018, and is down from 3.42 percent for the first quarter of 2018. The net interest margin in the prior year benefited from reduced interest expense associated with accelerated accretion of purchase accounting related to certain acquired deposits.

Net interest income of $51.9 million for the first quarter of 2019 decreased by 1.5 percent compared to the same period in 2018, and was down 2.5 percent compared to the fourth quarter of 2018. The decrease in net interest income over prior year was mainly due to higher cost on interest-bearing deposits, which was largely driven by the higher market interest rate environment.

NONINTEREST INCOME

Noninterest income represented 27.2 percent of total revenues in the first quarter of 2019, compared to 25.3 percent in the same period in 2018, and 23.9 percent for the most recent prior quarter. Noninterest income of $19.4 million was up 8.8 percent compared to the same period last year, and down 2.3 percent compared to the fourth quarter of 2018. Insurance revenue was the largest contributor to noninterest income and reflected an increase of 8.8 percent over the same period last year. Noninterest income also included a one-time incentive payment of $500,000 (pre-tax) related to our card services business in the first quarter of 2019.

NONINTEREST EXPENSE

Noninterest expense was $44.2 million for the first quarter of 2019, which was up 1.1 percent from the same period in 2018, and down 6.4 percent compared to the fourth quarter of 2018. The increase in noninterest expense from the same period last year was mainly related to higher salaries and wages in the first quarter of 2019. The decline from the most recent prior quarter was primarily due to higher cost in the fourth quarter of 2018 for professional fees, primarily related to investments in strengthening the Company’s compliance and information security infrastructure.

INCOME TAX EXPENSE

The Company’s effective tax rate was 21.0 percent in the first quarter of 2019, compared to 22.0 percent for the same period in 2018.

ASSET QUALITY

Asset quality trends remained strong in the first quarter of 2019. Nonperforming assets represented 0.36 percent of total assets at March 31, 2019, down from 0.42 percent at Dec. 31, 2018. Nonperforming asset levels continue to be below the most recent Federal Reserve Board Peer Group Average1of 0.59 percent.

Provision for loan and lease losses was $445,000 for the first quarter of 2019, down from $567,000 reported for the first quarter of 2018, and $1.6 million reported for the fourth quarter of 2018. Net charge-offs for the first quarter of 2019 were $3.5 million compared to $127,000 reported in the first quarter of 2018. The first quarter of 2019 included a write-down on one large credit in the commercial real estate portfolio, the credit did have an impairment reserve at Dec. 31, 2018.

The Company’s allowance for originated loan and lease losses totaled $40.2 million at March 31, 2019, and represented 0.89 percent of total originated loans and leases at March 31, 2019, compared to 0.91 percent at March 31, 2018, and 0.95 percent at Dec. 31, 2018. The total allowance coverage of nonperforming loans and leases increased to 175.50 percent at March 31, 2019, up from 159.34 percent at March 31, 2018, and 163.25 percent at Dec. 31, 2018.

CAPITAL POSITION

Capital ratios remain well above the regulatory well capitalized minimums. The ratio of tangible common equity to tangible assets was 8.24 percent at March 31, 2019, improved from the 7.81 percent reported for the most recent prior quarter ended Dec. 31, 2018, and 7.29 percent at March 31, 2018.

About Tompkins Financial Corporation

Tompkins Financial Corporation is a financial services company serving the Central, Western, and Hudson Valley regions of New York and the Southeastern region of Pennsylvania. Tompkins Financial operates in Western New York as Tompkins Bank of Castile, Tompkins Insurance Agencies, and Tompkins Financial Advisors. Further information is available at www.tompkinsfinancial.com. 

Tompkins Bank of Castile is a community bank with 16 offices in the five-county Western New York region. Services include complete lines of consumer deposit accounts and loans, business accounts and loans, and leasing. Further information about the bank is available on its website, www.bankofcastile.com.

Tompkins Insurance Agencies Inc., offers personalized service, local decision-making and a broad range of services for consumers and businesses. It is an independent insurance agency offering personal and business insurance and employee benefits services through more than 50 different companies. The firm operates six offices in central New York, 16 offices in Western New York and seven offices in Southeast Pennsylvania. Further information is available at www.tompkinsins.com.

Tompkins Financial Advisors is the wealth management firm of Tompkins Financial Corporation. With more than a century of experience in helping clients to build, protect, and preserve wealth, Tompkins Financial Advisors provides financial planning, investment management, trust services and estate administration. For more information, visit www.tompkinsfinancialadvisors.com.

Grand Jury: Felon accused of having brass knuckles, assaulting Le Roy officer, resisting arrest, possessing cocaine

By Billie Owens

Todd M. Englerth is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a Class D felony. It is alleged that on Nov. 20 in the Town of Le Roy that Englerth knowingly possessed a dangerous knife or instrument -- metal knuckles, and he had previously been convicted of a crime. In count two he is accused of second-degree assault, a Class D violent felony, for allegedly intentionally trying to prevent a Le Roy police officer from performing a lawful duty and causing physical injury to the officer. In count three, he is accused of obstructing governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count three that Englerth attempted to prevent a public servant from performing an official function by means of intimidation, physical force or interference. In count four, the defendant is accused of resisting arrest, a Class A misdemeanor. In count five, he is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth degree, a Class C felony, for allegedly possessing cocaine weighing an 1/8th ounce or more.

Heyward Clark AKA Heywood Clark is indicted for the crime of third-degree burglary, a Class D felony. It is alleged that on Oct. 27, 2016 that Clark knowingly entered into a building on School Street in the City of Batavia with the intent to commit a crime. In count two, he is accused of petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly stealing personal property and U.S. currency that day. In count three, he is accused of third-degree criminal mischief for allegedly damaging property belonging to another person that had a value of more than $250 -- a window. In count four, Clark is accused of another count of third-degree burglary for allegedly unlawfully entering a garage on Porter Avenue in the City of Batavia sometime between Oct. 27 and Oct. 31, 2016. In count five, he is accused of another count of petit larceny for allegedly stealing a circular saw and battery from a person after entering the garage. In count six, he is accused of fourth-degree criminal mischief, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly intentionally damaging another person's property at the garage -- a window.

Felix Cabrera-Lopez AKA Felix Cabrera is indicted for the crime of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on March 6, 2018, on South Lake Street in the Town of Bergen that Cabrera-Lopez drove a 2001 Honda while his driver's license was suspended or revoked. He had in effect at the time 10 or more suspensions, imposed on at least 10 separate dates for failure to answer or pay a fine: Jan. 31, 2008; Dec. 31, 2011; Oct. 5, 2012; March 27, 2014; Oct. 16, 2014; Jan. 7, 2015; June 9, 2015; May 12, 2016; Sept. 10, 2016; July 25, 2017 -- all in Monroe County.

Learn more about Alzheimer's and dementia with free education programs

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Memory loss is not a normal part of aging, and it could be an indication of something more serious such as disease that is causing dementia symptoms. The Alzheimer’s Association® Western New York Chapter offers a free education program that discusses the basics about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, which will be offered in Genesee County in May.

"Know the 10 Warning Signs" will be presented at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 7. Genesee County Aging Services at 2 Bank St. is hosting the presentation. 

On Monday, May 13, Chapter dementia experts will be in Batavia to present "Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors." This program is aimed at helping caregivers decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers and strategize to overcome these challenges. The free class is set for 1 p.m. in the NYS Veterans Home at 220 Richmond Ave. 

Registration is required for both programs by calling the Chapter office during traditional business hours at (716) 626-0600, ext. 313, or 24-hours a day, 7 days a week at 800-272-3900.

A special joint enrichment social program is set for Thursday, May 30 at the Jello-O Gallery Museum in Le Roy. This free activity is for people living with dementia and their care partner and highlights living well with a dementia diagnosis by offering the opportunity to socialize, learn and have fun with others facing similar circumstances. Registration is required by calling Lauren Ashburn or Shelby Edgerly at (716) 626-0600.

Additionally, the Chapter oversees several monthly caregiver support group meetings across the county, which allow caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges and hear advice for overcoming them:

  • 3rd Wednesday (May 15) at 7 p.m. – Richmond Memorial Library, 19 Ross St. in Batavia
  • 3rd Thursday (May 16) at 1 p.m. – Genesee County Office for the Aging, 12 Bank St. in Batavia
  • 2nd Monday (May 13) at 2 p.m. – The Greens of Le Roy, 1 West Ave. in Le Roy

Community social programs, or respites, are also available every month in Batavia and Corfu. This program provides relief to those who care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia and offers them some time to refresh and recharge, while their loved one is engaged in social activities in a safe environment.

First Presbyterian Church of Batavia offers this free service on the fourth Monday (May 27) from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For additional information, please call Mickey Rodak at (585) 455-5940.

Indian Falls United Methodist Church at 7908 Alleghany Road, Corfu, offers a respite program on the third Wednesday (May 15) from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information, call Celinda McQuiston at (585) 762-9105. 

To learn more about other Alzheimer’s Association programs and services, contact the WNY Chapter office at 800-272-3900.

You can also access dementia care programs and resources by calling the Genesee County Office for the Aging at (585) 343-1611.

Genesee Chorale celebrates the songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber in concert at Northgate church's South Campus

By Billie Owens

The Genesee Chorale offers up a musical celebration not to be missed at 4 p.m. Sunday, May 19, at Northgate Free Methodist Church -- South Campus.

"Andrew Lloyd Webber: A Musical Celebration" will feature songs from the serious (“Pie Jesu” from "Requiem") to the silly (“Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats” from "Cats"). Add some "Phantom of the Opera," "Love Never Dies" and "Evita," and your entertainment is guaranteed.

The program also includes solo and small group performances of other Webber favorites.

Event Date and Time

Genesee Chorale celebrates the songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber in concert May 19

By Billie Owens

The Genesee Chorale offers up a musical celebration not to be missed at 4 p.m. Sunday, May 19, at Northgate Free Methodist Church.

"Andrew Lloyd Webber: A Musical Celebration" will feature songs from the serious (“Pie Jesu” from "Requiem") to the silly (“Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats” from "Cats"). Add some "Phantom of the Opera," "Love Never Dies" and "Evita," and your entertainment is guaranteed.

The program also includes solo and small group performances of other Webber favorites.

The performance will be at Northgate's South Campus, 350 Bank St., Batavia.

Tickets are $10 through geneseechorale.com or at the door. Please note that seating for this popular concert is limited.

Further information is available at the Chorale website, or by calling (716) 531-8986.

Thruway Authority Skilled Trades Scholarship Program launches, deadline to apply is May 31

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced Monday the launch of a new Thruway Authority Skilled Trades Scholarship Program, aimed at recruiting qualified students pursuing a career in the trades and increasing workplace diversity.

The Thruway Authority will collaborate with New York State schools offering programs in various trades such as carpentry, electrical, HVAC and plumbing, and provide students the opportunity to jumpstart their career with the Thruway Authority while gaining valuable on-the-job skills training.

Ten students will be selected in the pilot program this year to work in each of the Thruway Authority's maintenance divisions across the state.

"Scholarship and mentor programs are critical to developing and retaining employees in highly skilled trades and establishing a future workforce for our state," Governor Cuomo said. "This program is a valuable workforce development tool that will open new doorways for young New Yorkers so they have the chance to thrive in today's economy."

"The new Thruway Authority Skilled Trades Scholarship is a great workforce development tool, providing on-the-job training for specialized trades jobs," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, who made the announcement.

"Students will work with mentors to receive their education and training, and when they complete the program, have a career with the Thruway Authority along with opportunities for advancement. We want to make sure all New Yorkers have the access and resources they need to be trained in the trades and fill these high-skilled jobs across New York State."

Students enrolled in vocational/technical programs, or accepted for enrollment at a trade school or college-level program, can apply for the scholarship program. Applicants are required to submit an employment application and provide two letters of recommendation. Submissions will be reviewed by a committee, which will interview and select the qualified candidates this summer.

Selected applicants will be awarded $1,000 toward their education while joining the Thruway Authority workforce to apply their skills. As full-time Thruway Authority employees, the participants will be eligible for the Thruway Authority's tuition reimbursement program to further fund their education expenses.

During the program, participants will continue to attend classes and obtain the necessary qualifications for progressive levels of the program. With proper training and experience, the candidates will be appointed to a journey level trade position with the Thruway Authority once they meet the minimum qualifications.

Thruway Authority Executive Director Matthew J. Driscoll said, "This pilot program is a unique opportunity to recruit a diverse workforce and jumpstart a student's career. We encourage qualified candidates to apply for this program and join the many men and women currently working in a skilled trade with the Thruway Authority."

Assemblymember John T. McDonald III said, "Supporting careers and education in the skilled trades is of tremendous value to our communities and to the economy. I applaud the Thruway Authority for seeing the value in providing scholarships in the skilled trades field and for investing in these students."

Assemblymember William B. Magnarelli, chair, Assembly Transportation Committee, said, "The Thruway Authority Skilled Trades Scholarship Program is a great opportunity for students to explore the vase field of trades that are needed in Upstate New York. The skills learned through the trades will serve these individuals as a wonderful foundation for their entire career."

The deadline for students to submit an application is May 31. Interested students can find out more information about the program and apply at thruway.ny.gov/scholarship.

Northgate Free Methodist Church to host Marriage Night simulcast event and dinner May 31

By Billie Owens

Press release:

On Friday, May 31, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Northgate Free Methodist Church in Batavia will host the first Marriage Night simulcast event in partnership with RightNow Media.

Marriage Night offers husbands, wives, and engaged couples the opportunity to hear from Francis and Lisa Chan ("You and Me Forever"), Les and Leslie Parrott ("The Good Fight"), and Christian comedian "Michael Jr."

Registration is $15 per person, and includes dinner prior to the simulcast.

Healthy marriages don’t happen by accident. They require work and dedication, but with the busyness of life and the pressures of culture it’s easy to lose focus. What is marriage supposed to look like when those initial bursts of excitement give way to everyday troubles and routines?

This event provides expert teaching and principles for a lasting relationship while challenging the couples to see the greater purpose of marriage — to glorify God and advance his Gospel. Marriage is made for more than fairy tale ending. It’s a picture of God’s hope and redemption for a world in need of rescue.

Northgate Free Methodist Church is located at 8160 Bank Street Road, Batavia.

To register and find out more information, visit here. If you have questions, you may call the office at (585) 343-4011 or email Pastor Gloria at gloria@northgatefmc.com

Invite your friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors to attend this one-night event.

USDA releases report on rural broadband and benefits of Next Generation Precision Agriculture

By Billie Owens

Press release:

WASHINGTON, April 30 – Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue today unveiled a groundbreaking report, A Case for Rural Broadband: Insights on Rural Broadband Infrastructure and Next Generation Precision Agriculture Technologies (PDF, 2.5 MB).

The report finds that deployment of both broadband e-Connectivity and Next Generation Precision Agriculture Technology on farms and ranches throughout the United States could result in at least $47 billion in national economic benefits every year.

“Broadband and Next Generation Precision Agriculture are critical components for creating vital access to world-class resources, tools and opportunity for America’s farmers, ranchers, foresters and producers,” Secretary Perdue said.

“Under the leadership of President Trump, USDA is committed to doing our part to clear the way for nationwide broadband connectivity that will allow the next generation of precision agriculture technologies to thrive and expand.”

Download A Case for Rural Broadband: Insights on Rural Broadband Infrastructure and Next Generation Precision Agriculture Technologies (PDF, 2.5 MB). To see how Next Generation Precision Agriculture Technologies can work on farm and ranching operations, view the Connected Technologies infographic (PDF, 910 KB).

The report also finds that if broadband infrastructure and digital technologies at scale were available at a level that meets estimated producer demand, the U.S. economy could realize benefits equivalent to nearly 18 percent of total agriculture production. Of that 18 percent, more than one-third is dependent on broadband e-Connectivity, equivalent to at least $18 billion in annual economic benefits that only high-speed, reliable internet can provide.

For many years, USDA and the American agriculture industry have been actively researching the feasibility, usage and potential upside of Next Generation Precision Agriculture technologies. Until now though, the interdependency of these technologies and broadband e-Connectivity has not been evaluated.

The report released today explores this symbiotic relationship and quantifies the potential economic benefit of broadband buildout and the complementary adoption of connected agriculture technologies. Going forward, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will be engaged in multiple facets of infrastructure and technology deployment, including financing rural capital investments and supporting producers who are exploring which Next Generation Precision Agriculture Technologies are best suited to improve their operations and serve their customers.

In April 2017, President Trump established the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity to identify legislative, regulatory and policy changes that could promote agriculture and prosperity in rural communities. In January 2018, Secretary Perdue presented the Task Force’s findings to President Trump.

These findings included 31 recommendations to align the federal government with state, local and tribal governments to take advantage of opportunities that exist in rural America. The Report identified Achieving e-Connectivity in Rural America as a cornerstone recommendation. The Administration has been executing this priority call to action through the American Broadband Initiative (ABI) (PDF, 647 KB), which reflects rural broadband build-out as one of President Trump’s directives to the Federal government. A Case for Rural Broadband: Insights on Rural Broadband Infrastructure and Next Generation Precision Agriculture Technologies (PDF, 2.5 MB) opens the next chapter in the USDA’s response to this call to action.

To view the report in its entirety, please view the Report to the President of the United States from the Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity (PDF, 5.4 MB). In addition, to view the categories of the recommendations, please view the Rural Prosperity infographic (PDF, 190 KB).

This is National Infant Immunization Week

By Billie Owens

From the GC Health Department:

National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) is an annual observance to highlight the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases and to celebrate the achievements of immunization programs in promoting healthy communities throughout the United States.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of this significant observance! Paul Pettit, Public Health director of Genesee and Orleans counties, proclaims the many benefits and accomplishments vaccines have on our communities.

“Vaccines are amongthe most successful and cost-effective public health tools available for preventing disease and death," Pettit said. "When you get vaccinated, you not only protect yourself but you also help protect the people around you who might be too young or too sick to get vaccinated themselves.

"This is called 'community immunity' or 'herd immunity.' If enough people stop getting vaccinated, more outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, such as measles, will occur.”

Most parents choose the safe, proven protection of vaccines. Giving babies the recommended vaccinations by age 2 is the best way to protect them from 14 serious childhood diseases, like whooping cough and measles.

These diseases can be especially serious for infants and young children. Parents are encouraged to talk to their child’s doctor to ensure that their baby is up-to-date on vaccinations.

It is important to follow the recommended immunization schedule to protect infants and children by providing immunity early in life, before they encounter potentially life-threatening diseases.

The recent outbreak of measles in our country has reached the highest number of cases since the disease was eliminated in 2000. Most recent data shows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 695 cases of measles from 22 states.

The return of the disease occurs when an unvaccinated traveler visits a country where there is widespread measles transmission, gets infected with measles, and returns to the United States and exposes people in a community who are not vaccinated.

Once measles enters an under-vaccinated community, it becomes difficult to control the spread of the disease. When measles enters a highly vaccinated community, outbreaks either don’t happen or are usually small.

This is why taking proper precautions and receiving the vaccine is so important to the health of our community.

Below is a summary of the vaccines children should receive by 2 years of age:

  1. The Varicella vaccine protects against chickenpox. Symptoms of chickenpox include rash, tiredness, headache, and fever. Complications of the disease include infected blisters, bleeding disorders, encephalitis (brain swelling), and pneumonia (infection in the lungs). Children need two doses of chickenpox vaccine. CDC recommends children receive the first dose between 12–15 months and the second between 4–6 years.

  2. The DTaP vaccine combines protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. Symptoms of diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis includes sore throat, mild fever, weakness, and swollen glands in neck. Complications of these diseases included swelling of the heart muscle, heart failure, coma, paralysis, death. Children need five doses of DTaP vaccine. CDC recommends infants receive the first dose at 2 months, the second at 4 months, the third at 6 months, the fourth between 15–18 months, and the fifth between 4–6 years.

  3. The Hib vaccine protects against Haemophilus influenzae disease. Symptoms of Haemophilus influenza include fever and chills, headache, nausea, excessive tiredness, and altered mental status. Complications of these infections may include loss of limbs, brain damage, or hearing loss. Children need three to four doses of the Hib vaccine. CDC recommends infants receive thefirst dose at 2 months, the second at 4 months, the third at 6 months (if needed), and the last shot between 12–15 months.

  4. The Hepatitis A vaccine protects against the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Symptoms of HAV typically do not appear until four weeks after exposure or may not occur at all. Symptoms that may appear include fever, dark urine, abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin). Complications of the disease include liver failure, arthralgia (joint pain), kidney, pancreatic, and blood disorders. Children need two doses of the hepatitis A vaccine. CDC recommends babies receive the first dose when the child turns 1 and the second should be given 6-12 months later.

  5. The Hepatitis B vaccine protects against a liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Symptoms of HBV are fever, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, and jaundice. Complications of HBV can lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and death. Children need 3-4 doses of the HBV vaccine. CDC recommends infants receive the first dose at birth, the second dose is given at 1-2 months, the third at 4 months (if needed), and the last is given at 6-18 months.

  6. The Influenza (Flu) vaccine protects against flu virus. Symptoms of flu include fevers, chills, coughing, runny nose, fatigue, sore throat, and muscle or body aches. Complications of flu may include sinus and ear infections, pneumonia, inflammation of the heart, brain or muscles, organ failure, and even death. The influenza vaccine is started at 6 months and is needed every fall or winter for the rest of your life. CDC recommends children 6 months and older receive the vaccine once a year.

  7. The MMR vaccine combines protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. Symptoms of these diseases may include fever, headache, rashes, and eye irritation. Complications of measles, mumps, and rubella include deafness, brain damage, swelling of the spinal cord, infection of the lungs, and death. Children need two doses of the MMR vaccine. CDC recommends the first dose should be given between 12-15 months and the second dose between 4-6 years.

  8. The Polio vaccine protects against the infectious polio disease. Symptoms of the disease may include muscle and joint weakness and pain, sleep-related breathing disorders (such as sleep apnea), general fatigue (tiredness) and exhaustion with minimal activity, and muscle atrophy (muscle loss). Complications can include paresthesia (feelings of pins and needles in the legs), meningitis, paralysis, and death. Children need four doses of polio vaccine. CDC recommends the first dose should be given at 2 months, the second at 4 months, the third between 6-18 months, and the fourth between 4-6 years.

  9. The Prevnar vaccine protects against pneumococcal disease. Symptoms include coughing, fevers and chills, difficulty breathing, and chest pains. Complications of this disease include brain damage, hearing loss, blood infection, and even death. Children need four doses of Prevnar. CDC recommends the first dose should be given at 2 months, the second at 4 months, the third at 6 months, and the fourth between 12-15 months.

  10. The Rotavirus vaccine protects against the contagious rotavirus. Symptoms of rotavirus include diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Complications of the disease include severe diarrhea and dehydration which can lead to death. Children need two to three doses of rotavirus vaccine. CDC recommends the first dose is given at 2 months, the second is given at 4 months, and the third is given at 6 months (if needed).

Protecting your baby from vaccine-preventable diseases begins even before your baby is born. Brenden Bedard, director of Community Health Services of Genesee and Orleans counties, educates on what vaccines mothers should get when they are pregnant.

“All pregnant women are recommended to receive the Tdap and influenza (flu) vaccine during each pregnancy," Bedard said. "The recommended time to get the Tdap shot is during the 27th through 36th week of pregnancy and the influenza shot can be given at any time during flu season, typically October through May.

"Pregnant women who receive these vaccines are also helping to protect their babies from diseases for the first several months after their birth, when they are too young to get vaccinated.”

In addition to mothers, it is also important for immediate family, such as spouses, grandparents, and anyone who will be in close contact with a new baby to receive the Tdap vaccine and the influenza vaccine during flu season.

While babies may experience some discomfort immediately after receiving vaccinations, it’s important to remember the pain is temporary, while the protection is long term. You work hard to help keep your baby safe and healthy! For more information on infant immunizations, please visit here.

The Genesee and Orleans County Health departments participate in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program. This federally funded program will assist families who are uninsured or underinsured receive childhood vaccines at no cost. For more information, please contact your local health department.

For a copy of the 2019 Recommended Immunization for Children Birth though 6 Years Old, please visit here.

For information about this article or Health Department services contact:

  • Genesee County Health Department at: 344-2580, ext. 5555, or visit their website here.

Ranzenhofer and Hawley call on governor to fund Ag Academy

By Billie Owens

Press release from Senator Mike Ranzenhofer:

State Senator Mike Ranzenhofer and Assemblyman Steve Hawley have called on the Governor to restore funding for local Ag Academy, through a program of targeted education funding, referred to as “Bullet Aid.”

“I was very disappointed to see cuts to various agriculture programs," Ranzenhofer said. "The Genesee County Ag Academy provides a unique opportunity to students who are looking for a hands-on experience in agriculture education.

"I am hopeful that the Governor realizes how crucial these programs are and allocates the necessary funding. We are respectfully requesting $100,000 for the Genesee County Agriculture Academy, through the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership."

“New York’s agricultural industry is one of the strongest in the nation, having been realized through a robust and consistent investment in young aspiring farmers and producers in our state budget," said Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia). "To cut funding that empowers future generations of young people interested in farming would devastate the industry and hinder our labor pool. Genesee County is undoubtedly a production hub in our state and the Genesee County Agricultural Academy is the centerpiece of teaching and innovation.

"The $100,000 we are seeking for this institution is readily available through discretionary bullet aid and I implore Gov. Cuomo to make the right decision for New York agriculture.”

This agribusiness program began through funding that Senator Ranzenhofer secured in 2013. Since then, the program has received funding in the budget through local agriculture assistance. For the first time in recent history, the Governor has $5 million to be given out at his discretion, for local education programs.

The 2019-20 budget was passed on April 1st.

Serious injury accident closes part of Fargo Road, Stafford

By Billie Owens

A serious injury accident about an hour ago prompted the closure of Fargo Road between Route 5 and Sweetland Road. The accident address is 9123 Fargo Road. Stafford Fire Department, Stafford Fire Police, Mercy medics and law enforcement are on scene.

UPDATE 8:53 p.m.: This was a fatal accident. More information T/K.

UPDATE 9:08 p.m.: From Alecia Kaus, Video News Service, at the scene:

"Genesee County 9-1-1 Dispatch received a call of a vehicle off the road in the 9100 block of Fargo road late Monday afternoon. A deputy responding to another call in the area arrived on scene and noticed a single male occupant was deceased in his vehicle.

"According to Genesee County Chief Sheriff's Deputy Brian Frieday, a passerby noticed the vehicle off the road and it is unknown how long it had been there.

"Frieday says the car was headed south on Fargo Road when it left the west shoulder of the road, then corrected, and left the east shoulder of the road and struck a tree on the driver's side and ended up spinning counterclockwise. The car then came to rest on the west shoulder, partially in the ditch.

"The Genesee County Sheriff's Crash Investigation Team was on scene looking into the cause of the accident."

UPDATE: The driver of the vehicle was Arthur D. Mase, 66, of East Bethany. Mase was driving a 2005 Chevrolet Malibu southbound on Fargo Road. According to the Sheriff's Office, it appears that Mase's vehicle crossed over the center line and went off the east shoulder of the road. The vehicle struck a tree on the driver's side before coming to rest in a ditch. Mase was pronounced dead at the scene.

The cause of the accident is still under investigation. The investigation is being conducted by Chief Deputy Brian Frieday, Sgt. Jason Saile, Sgt. Andrew Hale, Sgt. James Diehl, Deputy Kyle Krzemien, and Deputy David Moore. Assisting at the scene were Mercy EMS, Stafford fire, and Stella's Collision.

Photos courtesy of Alecia Kaus, Video News Service.

UPDATE: Reader-submitted photo.

Genesee RiverWatch's first-ever 'Report Card': overall grade is 'C' and Oatka Creek gets highest grade of 'B'

By Billie Owens

Press release:

ROCHESTER -- April 29 -- Genesee RiverWatch has released the first-ever “Report Card” grading the water quality and usability of the Genesee River and its major tributaries. The Report Card was developed to raise awareness of the environmental challenges facing the Genesee River Basin so that actions can be taken to improve the state of the watershed and preserve its beauty for generations to come.

“We have been developing this Report Card for a long time and are pleased to release it today," said George Thomas, executive director of Genesee RiverWatch. "We hope the public will take the time to read the full report."

To do so, click here.

"We are happy to answer questions about its grades and their implications," Thomas said. "We are even happier to answer questions about how individuals and organizations can help us continue to improve the river’s water quality and its recreational opportunities."

The overall grade for the Genesee River Basin is a “C” based on the quality of the river’s water at Rochester. This, in turn, reflects the cumulative effects on water quality of all the activities that take place along the Main Stem of the River and all its sub-watersheds stretching to Northern Pennsylvania.

Canaseraga Creek received the lowest grade – “D” – of all the sub-watersheds, indicating poor water quality and limits to human usage.

Oatka Creek and Black Creek received grades of “B” -- the highest grades of all the Genesee River sub-watersheds, indicating good water quality and better opportunities for human usage.

The Upper Basin of the river (south of Letchworth Park), Honeoye Creek and Conesus Creek sub-watersheds received grades of “C.”

In summary, there are portions of the Genesee River Basin that are environmentally in good health. However, major portions of the watershed are degraded to varying degrees.

Data used in this first Report Card is taken from reports published by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and focus on Total Phosphorus and Total Suspended Solids as well as the Department of Environmental Conservation’s assessments of suitability for human use.

Future report cards will also include the growing database of water quality measurements being collected by Genesee RiverWatch’s volunteer water quality monitors.

“The Genesee River is a major asset and resource for our region," said Board President Mike Haugh. "Rochester would not be the metropolitan area it is today if it wasn’t for the river. Its environmental, recreational and economic impact is critical to the future success of our region.

Genesee RiverWatch is dedicated to improving, preserving and celebrating the Genesee River and its tributaries and we hope you will join us in this effort.”

Genesee River Facts

The Genesee River flows 157 miles from its sources near Gold, Pennsylvania to Lake Ontario at Rochester, New York. The Genesee Basin drains approximately 2,500 square miles in Monroe, Livingston, Genesee, Orleans, Wyoming, Ontario, Steuben, Allegany and Cattaraugus counties in New York and Potter County in Pennsylvania. Twenty-four sub-watersheds of the Genesee contain 5,048 miles of streams.

Current land use within the watershed is approximately 52 percent agricultural, 40 percent forest, 4 percent urban, 2 percent wetlands and 2 percent other developed lands.

The Genesee River has been shaped by its glacial history. The last glacier receded around 12,000 years ago, leaving the spectacular Letchworth gorge and magnificent waterfalls, but also unconsolidated soils that erode easily and produce approximately 420,000 tons of river sediment each year.

Genesee RiverWatch

Genesee RiverWatch improves the water quality of the Genesee River and its tributaries to create environmental, recreational and economic assets for its communities. We also connect people to the river, encouraging them to explore, experience and celebrate the river.

Upcoming: Sixth Annual Genesee River Basin Summit

Genesee RiverWatch will host its Sixth Annual Genesee River Basin Summit on Tuesday, May 7, at the Rochester Institute of Technology, Louise Slaughter Hall. The program will begin at 8 a.m. and end at 4:30 p.m.

Admission is free and includes a continental breakfast and afternoon break. A noon break will allow attendees to discuss the program over lunch at several food service facilities on the RIT campus. Registration is requested; click here.

Reminder: BCSD Foundation accepting nominations for BHS graduating seniors, deadline is May 10

By Billie Owens

Press release:

REMINDER: Nominations are being accepted for the 2019 Batavia City School District Foundation Inc. Scholarship.

This scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior from Batavia High School.

The nominee has been successful in his/her educational program and has sought out skills to further his/her career. In addition, he or she has exemplified our Batavia school culture and climate of “Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Safe, Be Connected and Be Ambitious.”

Any member of the local community may nominate a Batavia HS Senior who meets the above criteria.

Nomination forms are available on the Batavia City School District website here (print out and mail or fax in) or you may complete the Google Form online here.

All nominations need to be received by May 10.

If mailing a printed form, attach any supporting documentation and send to:

Julia M. Rogers
Coordinator of Assessment and Instructional Services
Batavia City School District
260 State St.
Batavia, NY 14020
 
Or fax the paperwork to her at: (585) 344-8204
 
Questions? Phone Julia Rogers at (585) 343-2480, ext. 1010.

Law and Order: Second teen arrested in Le Roy Village residential burglary case

By Billie Owens

A 16 year old was the second person arrested by the Le Roy Police Department relating to a residential burglary in the Village which occurred on March 4. The identity of the 16 year old, who was arrested on April 23, is being withheld as the arrest now falls under the New York State Raise the Age Laws. The 16 year old was charged with one count each of burglary in the second degree and fourth-degree grand larceny, both felonies. It is alleged that the 16 year old unlawfully entered a residence in the Village of Le Roy, while the tenants were away, and stole items worth more than $1,000. The first person arrested for this crime was 19-year-old Sylvan Grayson on March 25. Most of the property was recovered during the investigation. The 16 year old was issued a criminal summons to appear in the Genesee County Court "Youth Part" to face the charges.

Paul Chester Wapniewski, 63, of East Main Street, Batavia, was arrested after he allegedly entered another tenant's room on East Main Street in Batavia at 9:59 a.m. on April 25 and stole money. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court on charges of second-degree burglary and petit larceny and held without bail. He is due back in city court on May 2. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Mitchell Cowen, assisted by Batavia Police Sgt. Dan Coffey.

Matthew John Norstrand, 34, of Washington Street, Spencerport, is charged with: driving while ability impaired -- combined influence of drugs and alcohol; driving while intoxicated; refusal to take a breath test; operating a motor vehicle with improper plates; and driving with obstructed view. At 3:28 a.m., following a 9-1-1 hang-up call investigation, Norstrand was arrested on West Bergen Road in the Town of Le Roy. He was issued appearance tickets and is due in Town of Le Roy Court on June 6. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Joshua Brabon, assisted by Deputy Erik Andre.

Randy Robert Reiner, 24, of Washington Street, Akron, is charged with: driving while ability impaired by drugs; unlawful possession of marijuana; unregistered motor vehicle; and no/inadequate muffler.At 10:04 p.m. on April 27, Reiner was stopped on Route 63 in the Town of Oakfield following the alleged observation of vehicle and traffic violation(s). He was given sobriety tests then transported to jail where Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Richard Schildwaster, a Certified Drug Recognition Expert, administered a Drug Influence Evaluation. He was arrested, processed and released on appearance tickets for Town of Oakfield Court, where he is due on May 27. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan DeLong.

Matthew Alan Olczak, 31, no address specified, of Clarence, is charged with: driving while impaired by drugs; failure to keep right; driving acorss hazard markings; and driving while intoxicated. He was arrested after a traffic stop on Main Road in the Town of Pembroke at 1:50 a.m. on April 24. He was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Pembroke Court on May 9. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Austin Heberlein.

Heidi L. Harder, 43, of Montclair Avenue, Batavia, is charged with introducing prison contraband in the second degree. On April 16, Harder was arrested on an unrelated charge and transported to the Genesee County Jail. Upon arrival she was searched by a jail deputy and allegedly found to possess drug paraphernalia. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court on April 23 and jailed in lieu of $1,500 cash or bond. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Miah Stevens, assisted by Officer Marc Lawrence.

Peter M. Glick, 21, of Woodward Avenue, Buffalo, is charged with: driving while intoxicated with a BAC of .08 percent or more; DWI -- common law; speeding; and moving from lane unsafely. Glick was allegedly found to be operating his vehicle while intoxicated after a traffic stop on Ellicott Street in Batavia at 8:57 p.m. on April 13. He was processed at Batavia police headquarters and is due in Batavia City Court on May 1. The case was handled by Batavia Police Offier Mitchell Glick, assisted by Officer Miah Stevens.

Donald M. Maskell III, 28, of Cook Road, Byron, is charged with driving while intoxicated -- common law, and no headlights. He was arrested at 2:11 a.m. on April 28 on Jefferson Square, Batavia, after he was stopped for an alleged traffic violation and allegedly was found to be operating his vehicle while intoxicated. He was processed at Batavia police headquarters and is due in Batavia City Court on May 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Mitchell Cowen, assisted by Officer Stephen Quider.

Virginia A. Marks, 40, of State Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. She was arrested at 11:33 a.m. on April 26 at the Dollar General store on East Main Street in Batavia following a shoplifting investigation. She was issued a computer-generated appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on April 30. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jason Davis, assisted by Officer Kevin DeFelice.

Reel Discussion at Richmond library: 'They Shall Not Grow Old' -- World War I as told by the soldiers who lived it

By Billie Owens

Reel Discussion at Richmond Memorial Library will be on Thursday, May 23rd at 6 p.m. and the film is "They Shall Not Grow Old."

Come view the movie and join us for a group discussion afterward.

Event Date and Time

Richmond library: Associate professor at College at Brockport talks about 'The Myths of the Salem Witch Hunt'

By Billie Owens

"The Myths of the Salem Witch Hunt" is the title of a presentation by Paul Moyer, Ph.D., of the College at Brockport, that will be given at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 30, at Richmond Memorial Library.

Join us in the Reading Room as Moyer discusses several myths that have worked their way into the story of the Salem Witch Hunt of 1692. This is a free presentation.

For more information, please call the Richmond Memorial Library at 343-9550 or log onto www.batavialibrary.org.

The library is located at 19 Ross St. in the City of Batavia.

 

Event Date and Time

Richmond library: Trio of Eastman School of Music grad students perform concert with classical guitars and a Chinese pipa

By Billie Owens

Two classical guitars and a Chinese pipa music concert will be performed for free at Richmond Memorial Library at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 2.

Join us in the Reading Room as Eastman School of Music graduate students, Thomas Torrisi and Ken Luk, are joined by Chinese pipa player, Leah Ou, for an evening of music.

For more information, please call the Richmond Memorial Library at 343-9550 or log onto www.batavialibrary.org.

The library is located at 19 Ross St. in the City of Batavia.

Event Date and Time

Byron Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary Annual Chicken BBQ & Chinese Auction is Memorial Day

By Billie Owens

The Byron Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary Annual Memorial Day Chicken Barbeque & Chinese Auction will be held on Memorial Day -- Monday, May 27 beginning at 11:30 a.m. until sold out.

Dine in or take out.

Cost is $10 for 1/2 chicken dinner; $5 for 1/4 chicken dinner. Meals include: Barbeque chicken, macaroni salad, coleslaw; homemade rolls and dessert. Beverages available on site.

Chinese Auction is $5 per 25-ticket sheet. Drawings begin at 1 p.m. You DO NOT need to be present to win!

Music will be performed by the Hill Brothers.

All proceeds fo toward the auxiliary's mission to help the Byron Fire Department and community members.

Join is at the Byron Fire Hall on Memorial Day! It is located at 6357 E. Main Road (Route 262) in Byron.

Top LGBTQ leader is keynote speaker at GCC's Social Justice Day event Tuesday

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and press release:

On Tuesday, April 30, at 12:30 p.m. Genesee Community College invites the campus and overall community to Social Justice Day featuring Jon Paul Higgins, Ph.D., as the keynote speaker appearing in the Stuart Steiner Theatre. The event is free and open to the public.

His talk will be followed by a series of breakout sessions featuring professionals and scholars from Criminal Justice, Environmental Justice, Women's Rights and Immigration. The overall program will conclude with a coffee and refreshments during a 30-minute reflection period in the Conable Technology Building in room T122.

Higgins is a speaker, writer, and social justice educator who focuses on issues related to gender, race and media.

He was named one of Business Equality Magazine's "Top 40 LGBTQ Under 40" in 2019, and has been featured on sites like NBC News, Buzzfeed, Vox, and Attn: and gave the first TEDx Talk on unlearned fear and reclaiming personal power in 2017.

This led to writing for Splinter, and other platforms such as Out Magazine, Them, SyfyWire, The Root, The Daily Dot, Shadow & Act, Slate, Essence, MTV News and more.

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