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Press Release:

Arc GLOW is accepting applications to the Mary Anne Graney Memorial Scholarship until April 25. 

Now in its 20th year, the Mary Anne Graney Memorial Scholarship is presented to area high school seniors who plan to further their studies in human services, special education or related fields. The scholarship honors Mary Anne Graney, a special education teacher, who passed in 2004. The scholarship is funded by the Friends & Family 5K, scheduled this year for September 20 in Elba. Since 2006, 63 scholarships have been awarded to deserving local high school students. The scholarships will be presented to recipients at their upcoming school scholarship programs.

To download the application, visit ArcGLOW.org and click on News and Events. If you have any questions, contact Sandy Konfederath at 585-343-1123 ext. 1715 or SKonfederath@ArcGLOW.org. 

Arc GLOW is a public, non-profit organization founded by parents and friends of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities serving Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties. For more information on Arc GLOW and its services, visit ArcGLOW.org.

Press Release:

An all-day, online conference to assist and educate healthcare professionals and caregivers for older adults living in rural areas across New York will take place on Friday, May 9, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Let’s Talk About Health: Caring for Older Adults in Rural New York” will feature several speakers discussing the many challenges faced by older adults in rural areas when seeking health care.

“Access to health care and other supportive services are critical to maintaining good health as we age, yet older adults in rural areas face a variety of access barriers,” says Thera Blasio, director of professional education for the Rochester & Finger Lakes Region Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, a co-sponsor of the event. “These challenges are a topic not often covered in health professions education.”

The goal of the conference is to identify and mitigate the challenges of providing health care in rural areas by increasing knowledge of population health data, treatment strategies and supports and services in order to encourage and build resilience in rural caregivers and health care providers.

The following speakers will be featured:

• Nora Obrien-Suric, President/CEO, Health Foundation of Western and Central NY
• Karen Madden, Director, Center for Health Care Policy and Resource Development, NYS Department of Health
• Dale King, Owner, PSKC Crossfit - with discussion of the documentary Small Town Strong
• Ann Marie Cook, President/CEO, Lifespan of Greater Rochester
• Monica L. Ranaletta, DO, UR Medicine
• Colette Phipps, LMSW, CDP, Director, Program Development, Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services
• Susan Craine, LMSW, Lifespan of Greater Rochester
• Christa Barrows, BSN, MPH, Alzheimer's Association Volunteer

The event is free, but Continuing Education Units (CMEs, CEUs) will be available for a $10 fee. Individuals can register online at bit.ly/RuralHealth25.

The conference is co-sponsored by the Rochester & Finger Lakes Region Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield of Rochester, NY, the Finger Lakes Geriatric Education Center at the University of Rochester, Lifespan of Greater Rochester, NYS Association for Rural Health and the Western New York Rural Area Health Education Center (WNY R‐AHEC), and is funded, in part, through grants from the New York State Department of Health.

To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, call 800.272.3900 or visit alz.org.

Press Release:

As the weather gets warmer, people are more likely to see wild and baby animals in their yards, parks, and wooded areas. The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) want to remind residents to stay alert and cautious around wild, stray, and even baby animals.

Rabies is a deadly disease that can affect both animals and humans, but the good news is, it is preventable.

“Rabies is most often spread through bites from animals that have the disease, like raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes,” stated Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director for GO Health. “Baby or young animals might look cute, but they can still have rabies. Don’t touch, feed, or approach wild animals or stray pets. If you see an animal that looks hurt or sick, call animal control instead.”

Rabies is deadly if not treated. If you are bitten by an animal, wash the wound right away with soap and water and seek medical attention. All bites should be reported to the Genesee or Orleans County Health Departments.

To stop the spread of rabies, the health department reminds residents of the following:

• Make sure your pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
• Do not go near or touch wild animals, baby animals or stray cats and dogs, even if they seem hurt or lost. Report any unusual animal behavior. If an animal seems aggressive, confused, or unusually friendly, contact animal control right away.
• Follow leash laws. Keep pets on a leash so they do not encounter wild animals or strays. If an animal bites your pet, seek veterinary assistance immediately and report it to the health department.
• Prevent bats from entering living spaces. If you find a bat in your home, safely capture it and contact the health department. DO NOT release it! For instructions on safely capturing a bat, watch this GO Health Minute.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of our upcoming drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Genesee and Orleans Counties, offered at no charge. 

Genesee County Rabies Clinics at the Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia)

• Thursday, May 15, from 4 to 6:30 p.m.
• Thursday, August 7, from 4 to 6:30 p.m.
• Thursday, October 9, from 4 to 6:30 p.m.

Orleans County Rabies Clinics at the Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion)

• Saturday, April 26, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, June 18, from 4 to 6:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, August 20, from 4 to 6:30 p.m.
• Saturday, October 25, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.

For more information on GO Health’s programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org. You can also contact your respective health department:

• Genesee County- 585-344-2580 x5555 or Health@geneseeny.gov
• Orleans County- 585-589-3278 or OCPublicHealth@orleanscountyny.gov

Follow GO Health on Facebook, Instagram, and X at GOHealthNY.

Press release:

“A Haircut Always Helps!”

Cassandra Hirsch, Jamie Torrence, and co-workers at UConnectCare on Saturday afternoon enlisted the support of three barbers from My Cut in Batavia to provide free haircuts.

Hirsch, a data evaluator who also works with the homeless population, looked on in appreciation as My Cut owner Zach Watts and fellow barbers Connor Hyde-Hamilton and Ray Williams donated three hours of their time to the cause.

“Many of the homeless don’t have access to services such as haircuts and can’t afford one so we wanted to make a way for them to get one,” Hirsch said. “We reached out to My Cut and they jumped right in.”

The Recovery Station staff also shuttled participants to the event – running a van back and forth from different locations at three separate times.

Hirsch said Iron Reps Gym, Southside Deli, Eden Café and Cinquino’s Pizza donated door prizes while individuals gave toys and cash. Clothing was donated as well.

“We’re so grateful to all those who helped out,” she said. “The next time we have this, we hope to have some hairdressers for the women.”

Watts said he sees owning a barber shop as something bigger than himself.

“Just being involved in a barber shop, in general, is being part of a community gathering place,” he said. “Sometimes, people can’t make it to you, so it’s important that you go out and make it to them.”

Watts started My Cut about 4 ½ years ago and has seen his customer base increase significantly. It received the Downtown Batavia Business Improvement District “Business of the Year” award in 2024.

He was quick to credit those who work at the shop.

“I’ve always said it’s the guys who have come in and joined me and are on this journey with me,” he said. “They’re the ones that make it work.”

Photos provided by UConnectCare.

Press Release:

In 1991, a formal Congressional resolution acknowledged the vital role that telecommunicators play in emergency situations by proclaiming the second week in April as a week of annual recognition in their honor. National Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Week is a time to thank these men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving the public.

Genesee County Sheriff Joseph M. Graff, along with the Genesee County Legislature and all emergency first responders, recognize these public safety professionals for their continued dedication, professionalism, and commitment to public service. The Genesee County Legislature issued a proclamation recognizing April 13 – 19, as National Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Week.

Emergency Services 9-1-1 Dispatchers are there 24/7, 365 days a year for police, fire and emergency medical personnel and the public in time of need. Many people do not think about these seemingly nameless, faceless individuals until they experience actual emergencies themselves. In many instances, Dispatchers make the difference between life and death. 

Typically, over 80,000 events are dispatched yearly, a daily average of 219, and over 100,000 telephone calls are handled, which is an average of 273 calls per day. The Genesee County Emergency Services Dispatch Center is comprised of 23 men and women who dispatch to 5 local police agencies, the New York State Police, 19 fire departments/Emergency Management Service, 3 ambulance services, as well as 41 other local, county, regional, state, and federal agencies.

“As we recognize National Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Week, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to our emergency dispatchers. You are the calm voice in the chaos, the steady hand guiding help when seconds matter most. Your dedication, professionalism, and compassion often go unseen, but your impact is felt in every life you help protect and every crisis you help resolve. On behalf of the Sheriff's Office, thank you for all that you do,” stated Sheriff Graff.

Press Release:

All Babies Cherished will hold its 9th Annual Run Baby Run 5K on Saturday, June 7, to support its local pregnancy assistance center.

The race begins at 9 a.m. at the Northgate Community Center, located at 350 Bank Street. Runners and walkers of all ages are welcome.

Registration is available online at RunSignUp.com. Spirit Timing will provide official timing.

Awards will be given to the top male and female finishers in five age categories.

All proceeds will help All Babies Cherished continue offering free services and support to local women and families facing unplanned pregnancies.

For more information or to sign up, visit RunSignUp.com.

Press Release:

Le Roy Ambulance Service is proud to announce it has been awarded a grant from the New York State Dormitory Authority, enabling the purchase of two new emergency vehicles to strengthen our ability to serve the community. The grant, valued at approximately $350,000, fully reimburses the cost of the vehicles with no expense to the organization.

This funding supported the acquisition of a 2023 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor First Response Vehicle - commonly referred to as a “flycar” - which replaces our 2010 Chevy Suburban. After 15 years of reliable service, the Suburban has made way for this modern upgrade, ensuring our team is equipped with the latest technology for rapid response. We officially placed the new flycar into service on April 10.

The grant also covers the purchase of a new ambulance - an exact match to our 2023 Chevy Ambulance, which was funded entirely through local fundraising efforts. This new vehicle will replace our 2018 Ford Ambulance, which has already logged over 100,000 miles. These fleet upgrades are essential to maintaining the safety, reliability, and efficiency of our operations as we continue providing exceptional emergency medical care. While ambulances take longer to produce, we are hopeful to take delivery later this year.

Between this generous grant and our recent fundraising success, we anticipate being free from monthly vehicle payments for the next 5 to 10 years. This financial flexibility will allow us to redirect limited funding toward other critical operational and capital needs - a tremendous advantage for the sustainability of our service.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) has announced that the Town and Village of Bergen will receive its Economic Development Partner of the Year awards at the GCEDC’s annual meeting at Batavia Downs on Friday, April 25.

“In the past year, we have celebrated tens of millions of dollars of investment at the Apple Tree Acres Business Park, including the expansions of Oxbo, Liberty Pumps, AppleTree Acres, LLC, and Craft Cannery and funding from Empire State Development to support infrastructure upgrades for shovel-ready acres,” said GCEDC President and CEO Mark Masse. “The town and village of Bergen exemplify what a successful public and private sector collaboration looks like.”

Bergen Town Supervisor Ernest Haywood and Village Mayor Joseph Chimino will accept the awards.

“Working with Mark Masse and the leadership at the GCEDC, we have been able to provide the necessary infrastructure and investment that create family sustaining careers and a friendly business climate where companies can grow and create prosperity for our community,” said Bergen Town Supervisor Ernest Haywood.

“Economic development partnerships occur through collaboration, finding the best fit that benefit both our residents and businesses,” added Village Mayor Joseph Chimino. “We are honored to have this recognition bestowed upon our community.”

Registration for the GCEDC annual meeting is open through Wednesday, April 16. For more information visit the event’s website or contact the GCEDC at gcedc@gcedc.com. 

Press Release:

As the weather warms up, the Batavia Police Department wants to remind residents to take extra precautions to protect their vehicles and valuables from larceny. With the increase in outdoor activities, it's essential to remain vigilant and take steps to prevent theft from vehicles. 

Simple Safety Suggestions: 

• Lock it up! Always lock your vehicle doors, even when parked in your driveway or in a secured garage.
• Keep valuables out of sight. Don't leave purses, laptops, phones, or other valuable items in plain sight. Take them with you or store them in a secure location.
• Park in well-lit areas. Avoid parking in dark or isolated spots, especially at night.
• Don't leave keys in the vehicle. Keep your keys with you or in a safe place, away from prying eyes.
• Be mindful of your surroundings. If you notice any suspicious activity, report it to the authorities immediately. 

By following these simple tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of larceny from your vehicle. Remember, it's always better to be proactive and take preventative measures to protect your belongings. 

If you have any information about larceny from vehicles or have been a victim of this crime, please contact the Batavia Police Department at 585-345-6350 or by submitting a tip at bataviapolice.org. Together, we can work towards a safer community.

Remember: A safe community is a responsible community.

Press Release:

National Animal Care & Control Appreciation Week is celebrated every second full week of April and is endorsed by the National Animal Care & Control Association.  The Genesee County Legislature issued a proclamation recognizing April 13 – 19, as National Animal Care & Control Appreciation Week.  

For those in the community that may not be aware, Genesee County Sheriff Joseph M. Graff is responsible for the Genesee County Animal Shelter and its two Dog Control Officers (DCOs) Sarah Fountain and Catherine Seward.  

DCO Fountain and Seward are tasked with picking up stray or dangerous animals every day, all year round.  They protect animals from abusers and people from dangerous animals.  These officers seek justice in cases of abused, neglected and abandoned animals; they conduct humane investigations pursuant to NYS Agriculture and Markets Laws, Public Health Laws, and bring in helpless animals.  They ensure any and all animals impounded are properly sheltered, fed, and watered and properly adopted, redeemed, or disposed of in a humane manner.
 
If you see Dog Control Officer Fountain or Seward this week, give them a thumbs up or friendly wave.  Remember, pet owners, license and tag your pet. Your local dog control officer will be happy knowing regular vaccination protocols have been followed and the tag (or chip implant) will help the officer identify the animal and you, the owner.

“This week, during National Animal Care & Control Appreciation Week, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated Dog Control Officers, Sarah and Catherine.  Whether you're responding to dangerous situations, reuniting lost pets with their families, or ensuring neglected animals find the care they deserve—you serve with compassion, professionalism, and courage.  Additionally important is the support and unique relationship we have with the Volunteers for Animals (VFA) organization.  The animal shelter runs efficiently and needed services are provided to the community with the assistance that is provided by the VFA,” stated Sheriff Graff.

Press Release:

Senator George Borrello announced he is introducing legislation, S. 7398, that would allow grocery stores in New York to sell wine, but with a key provision: only New York State-produced wines would be eligible for sale.

The proposal is intended to support family farms and local vintners and boost New York’s wine industry, which contributes nearly $15 billion in direct economic impact to New York State. It also addresses concerns that a general law allowing wine sales in supermarkets would result in major national distributors paying for shelf space and crowding out New York-produced wines. Smaller wineries—many of which rely on direct-to-consumer sales and limited distribution—could find themselves shut out of the grocery market entirely.

“New York is home to one of the most diverse and innovative wine industries in the country. From the Lake Erie shoreline to the Finger Lakes and down to Long Island, our winemakers are producing award-winning wines that deserve a prominent place on grocery store shelves,” said Senator Borrello. “But if we allow out-of-state wines to flood our stores, it will be the big national brands—backed by powerful distributors—who dominate shelf space. Small New York producers are likely to be squeezed out entirely or reduced to a token presence on store shelves."

Under current law, wine is sold primarily through standalone liquor stores. While proposals to allow wine sales in grocery stores have surfaced for years, they’ve been repeatedly defeated due to opposition from the liquor store lobby, which argues the change would harm independent retailers.

Borrello acknowledged their concerns and noted that his legislation strikes a balance—supporting New York’s wine industry while addressing the concerns of independent retailers and the liquor store lobby. The targeted approach would ensure that grocery sales expand in a way that uplifts local agriculture without undermining small, community-based wine and liquor shops.

He also said that he will soon be introducing legislation to address another concern of small wine and liquor retailers: the current prohibition on selling food products such as cheese, cured meats, olives, and crackers—items that complement wine and spirits. The goal is to level the playing field, as New York State currently prohibits liquor stores from selling any type of food.

“For too long, outdated and often unfair regulations have held back our state’s wine and spirits industry,” Senator Borrello said. “It’s time to bring New York’s alcohol laws into the 21st century, because our small producers and retailers deserve a system that works for them, not against them.”

He noted that modernization begins with giving New York wines a fair shot. By allowing only New York-produced wines to be sold in grocery stores, he said his legislation provides a smart, targeted way to strengthen our homegrown wine industry without undercutting independent retailers.

“New York wines are world-class. But our small producers are fighting an uphill battle in a consolidated distribution market,” said Senator Borrello. “This bill would give them a real leg up, while expanding consumer access to local wines and supporting our state’s economy.”

New York is the third-largest wine-producing state in the nation, with more than 450 wineries and 35,000 acres of vineyards across 11 American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). The industry supports thousands of jobs and draws over 5 million tourists to wine country annually, generating nearly $2 billion in tourism spending.

New York wines, particularly Rieslings and Cabernet Francs, continue to earn national and international acclaim while New York regions are frequently named among the best wine destinations in the world.

“This legislation isn’t just pro-agriculture—it’s pro-New York,” Senator Borrello added. “It supports our farmers, our small businesses, and our rural economies. And it ensures that if wine is sold in grocery stores, New Yorkers will see New York wines front and center.”

Press Release:

The Genesee Valley BOCES (GV BOCES) Early College High School celebrated a milestone event this spring with the induction of its very first group of students into the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS).

This inaugural group of 10th and 11th grade students represents the best of Career and Technical Education (CTE) - demonstrating excellence in academics, leadership, service, and dedication to their future careers.

NTHS is the honor society for CTE students nationwide, recognizing those who go above and beyond in their studies and skill development. Established in 1984, NTHS has recognized over 1.2 million students across the country for their commitment to their career pathways.

The induction ceremony, organized by Early College High School Principal Catherine Bennett and Counselor Karson Richenberg, included a candle-lighting tradition. Seven candles were lit to represent the core attributes of NTHS membership: Skill, Honesty, Service, Responsibility, Scholarship, Citizenship, and Leadership.

This ceremony marked the official start of the GV BOCES Early College High School NTHS Chapter, honoring students from a variety of CTE programs who have shown outstanding effort and growth.

Inducted Students:

10th Grade:

• Kinsley B. (Warsaw Central School District) - Studying biology with plans to work in healthcare. Kinsley participates in volleyball, track and field, and drama club, and enjoys Disney and musical theater.
• Ashton C. (Oakfield-Alabama Central School District) - Studying law. Participates in cross country, swimming, track, and drama.
• Keaton C. (Batavia City Schools) - Studying Computer Aided Design (CAD) and plays lacrosse as a defenseman.
• Sophia D. (Byron-Bergen Central School District) - Enjoys reading, writing, and playing volleyball.
• Audrey D. (Byron-Bergen Central School District) - Studying business with plans to pursue a career in agriculture. Plays volleyball and basketball and shows cows in competitions.
• Delilah H. (Warsaw Central School District) - Studying substance abuse counseling and prevention. Active in cheerleading, softball, and band.
• Emma M. (Batavia City Schools) - Passionate about livestock, art, and biology. Participates in FFA and 4-H and plans to become an equine veterinarian.
• Kristina M. (Batavia City Schools) - Enjoys music, learning, and caring for her cats.
• Gianna T. (Batavia City Schools) - Loves to play golf, enjoys adventures, and likes trying new things.
• Gabrielle G. (Avon Central School District) - Aspires to major in nursing. She plays lacrosse and participates in Bible study.

11th Grade:

• Brody M. (Warsaw Central School District) - Studying entrepreneurship and plays soccer year-round.
• Paige O. (Byron-Bergen Central School District) - Studying hospitality and tourism with plans to become a corporate event planner. Active in FFA and works at Red Osier to gain business experience.

These students were recognized not only for their academic success, but also for their leadership potential, dedication to their chosen career fields, and their involvement in extracurricular and community activities.

GV BOCES is proud to celebrate these students as role models in their programs and looks forward to seeing the impact they will make in their future careers.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home of Batavia, was honored to represent the funeral service profession and the families it serves at the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Advocacy Summit, held April 9 to 11, in Washington, D.C.

Steven L. Johnson, partner and funeral director at H.E. Turner & Co., Inc., participated in the summit as the only funeral firm from the State of New York, joining approximately 200 funeral professionals from across the country who came together to advocate on behalf of the NFDA’s 20,000 members nationwide.

Over the course of the summit, attendees collectively held around 300 meetings with legislators, senators, and their staffs—amplifying the voice of funeral service professionals and the families they support.

During his time in Washington, Mr. Johnson met with the legislative staffs of:

• Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY)
• Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY)
• Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT)
• Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY24)
• Rep. George Latimer (D-NY16)

Mr. Johnson and other NFDA advocates championed support for a number of bipartisan bills, including:

• H.R. 4275 / S.2191 – The Consensual Donation and Research Integrity Act
• H.R. 2436 – The Funeral Coverage Act of 2025
• S.1116 / H.R. 647 – The Ensuring Veterans’ Final Resting Place Act of 2025
• H.R. 1344 – The Dennis and Lois Krisfalusy Act
• H.R. 1228 – The Prioritizing Veterans' Survivors Act
• S.587 – The Death Tax Repeal Act
• S.623 / H.R. 1415 – The No IRIS Act of 2025

“Our mission in Washington was simple,” said Mr. Johnson. “To advocate for legislation that helps the families we serve—across all walks of life and political affiliations—and to ensure funeral service professionals have a voice in shaping the laws that impact our communities during life’s most difficult moments.”

H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. believes in the power of bipartisan advocacy to advance commonsense policies that uphold dignity, support grieving families, and ensure ethical practices across the deathcare profession.

The firm will continue to track the progress of these legislative efforts in the months ahead and is encouraged by the bipartisan interest shown during the summit. 

For more information, contact Steven L. Johnson, Partner & Funeral Director H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home, at 585-343-8868 or steven@bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Press Release:

Little Free Pantry Batavia is proud to announce the grand opening of its third location, expanding access to food and essentials for even more residents of the community. The new pantry will be located inside the vestibule of the Genesee County Career Center and officially opened to the public April 10.

The pantry will be open to the public Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., aligning with the Career Center’s hours. This location will feature both a full-size refrigerator for fresh food items and shelving for shelf-stable goods, helping meet a wide range of dietary and household needs.

Little Free Pantry Batavia extends heartfelt thanks to the staff and leadership at the Genesee County Career Center for their generous partnership. This location is a perfect fit, as the Career Center already serves individuals and families seeking support.

This new site joins two other Little Free Pantry locations in Batavia:

• 28 Seneca Avenue – Open 24/7, this pantry offers shelf-stable food and essentials.
• 10 City Centre, inside The Hemp Lodge – Open Tuesday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., this location includes a mini-fridge and shelf space.
• NEW: Genesee County Career Center – Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring a full-size fridge and expanded shelving.

All locations operate on a no-questions-asked basis and are stocked with shelf-stable food, fresh produce, and culturally and medically appropriate options such as vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free items. 

Submitted photos.

Byron-Bergen Page Turners Win Regional Title

Press Release:

Byron-Bergen High School’s Page Turners team took the Regional Championship title on April 8, at Pavilion High School. This is the first time since 2018 that the school has earned a championship title, though they have been a finalist in the regional competition all but five times since 2007. 

To qualify for regionals, each team’s combined scores from the fall and spring competitions are totaled. The first and second place teams in each of the three divisions then compete in regionals. This year Byron-Bergen placed first in both the fall and spring competitions for the north division.

“It's been great to participate in Page Turners. It's introduced me to many books which I love, and it's been nice participating with the other team members in the competition,” said Byron-Bergen Senior Eli Kupfer. “I've been in Page Turners since elementary school and hadn't won regionals. It was cool to have won before graduating.”

“I am so proud of this group of students,” said Byron-Bergen Secondary English Teacher and Page Turners Advisor Laurie Penepent. “They really work as a team with each member reading different books to ensure all are learned by at least two students. I’d also like to congratulate seniors Deborah Catalino, Lea Donofrio, Rachel Hanel, Eli Kupfer, Anna Mclaughlin, Adam Piper, and Rose Wilson who have all dedicated so much time and hard work to Page Turners throughout their high school careers.”

“Page Turners has introduced me to books I never would have looked at and I really ended up liking them, it forced me to expand my horizons,” said McLaughlin. “It's been fun to compete with my friends, especially once the competition is over and the stress has been relieved, knowing that we won. I’d like to thank Mrs. Penepent for being an amazing advisor and making Page Turners so fun for my high school career.”

Page Turners is a literary competition in which students read preselected books and answer questions on them. Students read five books for the fall and spring competitions with a knowledge of all 10 books for the regional competition. 

Press Release:

The YWCA of Genesee County is proud to announce the 2025 Women of Inspiration Awards Luncheon, set to take place on Saturday, May 3, from 12 - 2:30 p.m. at Terry Hills Banquet Facility in Batavia. This year’s event will honor women in five categories, who have made remarkable contributions to their community in the areas of education, leadership, inspiration, and entrepreneurship. 

The honorees include:

Education: Lucy Sackett

Lucy Sackett’s dedication to the Batavia community spans over 50 years, particularly in physical education and water safety. As a passionate swimming instructor, Lucy taught children essential water safety skills, empowering countless young individuals, especially young women. Despite personal hardship, Lucy has continued her community involvement, now supporting Crossroads House, a local comfort care facility. Her lifelong commitment to education and the empowerment of women makes her a deserving recipient of the Education Award.

Leadership: Karyn Winters

Karyn Winters, Director of the Genesee County Business Education Alliance, has long been recognized for her exceptional leadership and tireless efforts to bridge the gap between education and business. Through initiatives like GLOW with Your Hands and youth camps, Karyn has worked to provide students with valuable workforce skills and opportunities. She is a passionate advocate for women in the workforce and a leader who encourages others to reach their full potential. Karyn’s vision, organizational expertise, and dedication make her an ideal recipient of the Leadership Award.

Inspiration: Mary Kate Hoffman

As the Superintendent of Pavilion Central School District, Mary Kate Hoffman has broken barriers in education and inspired countless young women to pursue their dreams. Kate’s leadership has created opportunities for students, especially young women, to excel in fields typically dominated by men. Through initiatives such as a food processing program, Kate has empowered students with practical skills that contribute to both their personal success and the local economy. Her work in education reflects the YWCA’s commitment to equality, justice, and empowerment for all.

TEAM - Leadership Genesee Book Club

The Leadership Genesee Book Club, formed in 2012, brings together a group of women who are committed to fostering education, leadership, and community service. The ladies in this incredible group include, Stacey Anderson, Samantha Stryker, Sue Blanchard, Michelle Dills, Chris Fix, Diana Fox, Brenda Lee Heinemann, Laurie Mastin, Rebecca McGee, Donna Morrill, Lisa Ormsbee, Betty Powers, Barb Shine and Lynn VanDerBeck. As alumni of Leadership Genesee, these women serve on various local boards and organizations, working collaboratively to make a positive impact in Batavia and beyond. The collective work of this club serves as an inspiration for future generations of women leaders, making them deserving recipients of the TEAM Award.

Entrepreneur: Dr. Emily Fraser-Branche 

Dr. Emily Fraser-Branche is a board-certified pediatrician and founder of Three Little Birds Pediatrics. Her leadership in healthcare and her entrepreneurial spirit have made her a vital force in her community. Her dedication to providing high-quality, culturally sensitive care has helped countless women and children. Additionally, her support of the YWCA has ensured the continuation of vital services for the community, cementing her as a powerful advocate for women and families.

The event will also feature Keynote Speaker Linda Dynel, a survivor whose story of resilience will inspire all in attendance. The luncheon will be emceed by MaryAlice Demler of Channel 2 News, promising an empowering and impactful afternoon.

Tickets are available now, and the 2025 Women of Inspiration Awards Luncheon is sure to be a memorable experience for all attendees, celebrating the strength, leadership, and contributions of these remarkable women.

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.ywcagenesee.org or call us at 585-343-5808.

Press Release:

The Rochester Technology & Manufacturing Association (RTMA) today announced the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has approved the RTMA’s group sponsorship of the New York State Registered Apprenticeship Program as a New York State Approving Agency. This distinction allows the RTMA to provide VA benefits to apprentices who served in the United States Armed Forces. 

Registered Apprentices, who are Veterans, are now eligible for GI Bill and other educational benefits for Veterans and qualified family members to assist with tuition and career counseling. These benefits are in addition to several benefits and incentives already available to Registered Apprentices: including SUNY Tuition Assistance, complimentary Tooling U-SME licenses and several incentives for signatory companies.  

Veterans Affairs backdated the RTMA’s application to August 1, 2022, in order to assist Veterans previously enrolled in the NYS Registered Apprenticeship Program. The RTMA will collaborate with its signatory companies to provide the VA with the necessary documentation needed to receive VA benefits. In addition to receiving this distinction, RTMA Director of Workforce Development Rich Turner and Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator Keri Martin are now trained as School Certifying Officials with the VA. 

 For more information on the RTMA’s sponsorship of the NYS Registered Apprenticeship Program, visit https://www.rtma.org/apprenticeships or contact Rich Turner at rturner@rtma.org or 585-510-6557.