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Press Release:

St. Paul Lutheran Church and School will host their 4th Annual Small Business Craft and Vendor Event on Saturday, November 30 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. St. Paul's Church and School is located at 31 Washington Ave, Batavia.

Come browse a variety of handcrafted item including, quilts, blankets, children and baby items, wood crafts, jewelry and much more.

For more information contact 585-993-2410. 

Press Release:

United Lakes of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes provided $41,075 to Genesee County nonprofits this quarter, the latest installment in United Way’s commitment to deliver $164,300 in 2024. The funding supports 21 agencies and 26 programs in the county.

“We are pleased to be able to support our dedicated nonprofit partners in Genesee County who are on the front lines in addressing a wide range of pressing community needs,” said Jaime Saunders, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes. “This is an example of how United Way leverages the generosity of donors to deliver impact at scale.”

United Way is committed to supporting impactful and essential initiatives in Genesee County and across our region. Learn more about how you can make an impact in Genesee County by donating to United Way.  

Here are the organizations in Genesee County that are receiving funding from United Way this year:

• 211 WNY  
• All Babies Cherished  
• American Red Cross, WNY Chapter  
• Arc GLOW  
• Boy Scouts of America, Western NY Scout Council  
• Care-A-Van Ministries 
• Community Action of Orleans & Genesee, Inc.  
• CORE The Learning Center  
• Genesee County CASA for Children  
• Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern  
• Gillam-Grant Community Center  
• Girl Scouts of Western New York, Inc.  
• GLOW YMCA  
• GO ART! – Genesee-Orleans Regional Art Council  
• Hope Center of Le Roy  
• Junior Achievement of Western NY  
• PathStone Corporation  
• Salvation Army, Batavia Corps  
• UConnect Formerly Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse  
• Warrior House  
• YWCA of Genesee County 

Press Release:

Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR) is welcoming anyone from the GOW (Genesee Orleans Wyoming Counties to stop into their office underneath the Green Awning at 319 West Main Street in the Crickler Executive Business Center in Batavia. 

You are invited to stop in anytime between 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. or 2 to 5 p.m. on Thursday November 21. No appointments are needed!

You can learn about our health-related services for people with disabilities including: Loan Closet Equipment, Housing Employment, Medicaid Applications, Seniors’ Programs, Taking Control Personal care aide assistance; Children and Youth Service /Specialists and MORE!

More information is available at 585-815-8501, extension 400.

The Western New York Independent Living, Inc. family of agencies offer an expanding array of services to aid individuals with disabilities to take control of their own lives.

Press Release:

As the temperatures drop, people in our community will spend more time indoors, increasing the chance of spreading respiratory illnesses like Influenza (flu), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and COVID-19. 

“During the fall and winter season, we typically have more people getting sick,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health), “For some people – like children, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions – these illnesses can be serious.”

There are simple ways to keep everyone healthy and small actions can make a big difference. When we work together, we protect ourselves and help protect family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers.

Tips to Stay Healthy 

1. Viruses spread easily and can change over time, so it’s important to practice good habits to limit the spread.
2. Stay away from people who are sick. 
3. If you aren’t feeling well, stay home.
4. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
5. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer if you can’t use soap.
6. Try not to touch your eyes, mouth, or nose.
7. Talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated and staying up-to-date on vaccinations.
8. Practice other healthy habits:
   • Clean surfaces you often touch at home, school, or work.
   • Drink plenty of water.
   • Eat healthy meals.
   • Stay active.

What to Do if You Become Sick 

If you have symptoms of an illness, like coughing, a sore throat, trouble breathing, or a fever, it is important to act quickly to help yourself and protect others. 

1. Stay home and avoid contact with others to avoid the spread of illness. 
2. Watch your symptoms closely.
3.  Seek medical advice if symptoms get worse or if you have underlying health conditions that make you more at risk.
4.  Drink lots of water.

If you have a respiratory illness, like the flu or COVID-19, you can spread it to others. How long you are contagious can vary based on how sick you are and how long you stay sick, which may be different from person to person. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that once your symptoms are better and you haven’t had a fever for 24 hours (without using fever medicine), you are usually less contagious. 

To be extra careful, wear a mask for 5 or more days after your symptoms improve. The CDC offers Respiratory Virus Guidance and continues to monitor health trends and update recommendations as needed. You can get information about the CDC Respiratory Virus Guidance Update here: Respiratory Virus Guidance Update Frequently Asked Questions.

Respiratory Disease Data 

For the Genesee and Orleans Counties Respiratory Illness Dashboard that tracks confirmed cases of flu, RSV, and COVID-19, visit: GO Health Respiratory Dashboard. It is important to note the data on this page only includes reported cases. Residents can also access our GO Health Water Analysis Dashboard to see if there has been an increase in respiratory illness activity in their town/village.

For more information on Health Department programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or call your local health department at:

• Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555
• Orleans County: 585-589-3278

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

Press Release:

On the heels of a record-setting weekend, New Batavia Downs President and CEO Byron Brown announced today that Batavia Downs will pay tribute to our veterans with a Veterans Day complimentary meal and drink for those who visit on Monday, November 11.

Batavia Downs anticipates a busy holiday weekend as it will host the Zonta Holiday Festival, an Artisan & Vendor Marketplace, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. This free-admission event will feature various vendors offering unique gifts, crafts, and holiday essentials, perfect for early holiday shopping. 

Sponsored by the Zonta Club of Batavia/Genesee, this annual marketplace brings together local artisans, making it a must-visit event for the community. Guests can also enjoy a visit from Santa Claus on Sunday, November 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., making it an excellent outing for families. To add a touch of excitement, a Buffalo Football Door Prize will be drawn on Sunday.

In honor of Veterans Day, Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel is proud to offer a complimentary menu for veterans inside of Club Bud Light at 34 Rush on Monday, November 11, from 12 to 6 p.m. With a valid military ID, veterans can choose from a special menu, including:

• Boneless Wings: 10 wings with a choice of sauce, served with bleu cheese and fries.
• Rush Burger: 6oz beef patty with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a secret sauce on a Kaiser roll, served with fries.
• Bruschetta Chicken Sandwich: Grilled chicken breast with bruschetta mix, provolone cheese, and balsamic glaze on a Kaiser roll, served with fries.
• Soup & Salad Bar
• Beverage Choice: 12oz domestic draft or soda.

Veterans are invited to relax and enjoy a meal in appreciation of their service.

“Our debt to the brave men and women of our military can never be repaid and should never be forgotten,” said Byron Brown, President and CEO of Batavia Downs. “As the new President and CEO,  I join with our Board of Directors in thanking them for their service to our great country and look forward to seeing them on Veteran's Day at Batavia Downs.”

The previous weekend saw the 3rd highest Coin in day of all time, with handle passing $5.3 Million on Friday, November 1 as Batavia Downs welcomed the Legends and Stars Sports Expo to Batavia Downs. Several current and former Buffalo Football Players signed autographs for hundreds of fans from Western New York that Friday and Saturday. Legends and Stars’ next event is slated to be the weekend of February 21.

Press Release:

The Richmond Memorial Library is pleased to welcome local author David Neth for a reading, talk and book signing on Saturday, November 16 at 11 am in the Reading Room. 

David will discuss being an author and his many books, including a Hallmark-like series of holiday romance books set right here in Batavia! 

Get your holiday shopping done early! Books will be available for sale at the event. Light refreshments served. Free to attend and all are welcome! 

David Neth is the author of nearly 30 books of fantasy and superhero fiction. He has also written over 10 holiday romance books under the pen name D. Allen. He has worked with books for over 10 years, from writing to editing, designing to promoting, and now curating collections and teaching as a librarian. He lives in Batavia with his family.

For more information visit batavialibrary.org or contact Samantha Stryker at sstryker@nioga.org.

The Richmond Memorial Library is located at 19 Ross St in the City of Batavia.

Press Release:

On November 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., “Stuff the Cruiser” will take place at Batavia Towne Center on Veterans Memorial Drive. 

Local law enforcement and social welfare agencies, including the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Batavia Police Department, New York State Police, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Genesee County Probation Department, Genesee Justice and the Genesee County Department of Social Services, will collect donations to brighten the holiday season for children and teenagers in need across Genesee County.

Community members are invited to stop by and donate new toys, clothing, small gift cards, personal care items, hats, gloves, and non-perishable foods. All donations will stay within the county and benefit local families this holiday season!

For more information, please contact Jason Mindler at 585-344-2550 ext. 2254 or Jason.Mindler@geneseeny.gov.

Press Release:

The Joy Project, an exhibit inspired by the former Sibley’s Department Store in downtown Rochester, brings old-time Christmas to life at the Exhibit Hall at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 1 East Main Street, Le Roy. 

There is a huge Christmas village and train display to enjoy as well as “department store windows” with animatronics and accompanying story, an idea that came directly from the Sibley’s Enchanted Tunnel of the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. Hand-painted murals of Christmases of yesteryear by local artist Lorie Longhany were funded by a grant from GoArt! (Genesee Orleans Regional Arts Council).

A key feature of this exhibit is the one-of-a-kind diorama of the 1937 radio show “The Cinnamon Bear.” Constructed by a Chicago-area model builder in the 1980s, it was displayed in a Chicago department store Christmas display, and when it needed a new home, this location was selected.  

An extensive newscast was aired last year on Chicago PBS station WETA about this diorama and the need for a new home.  https://www.pbs.org/video/man-created-miniature-maybeland-in-his-portage-park-home-18h/

This exhibit is open and free to the public on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sundays from 12 to 4 p.m. from November 30 through December 22 between Thanksgiving and Christmas. And, yes, kazoos will be available for sale—just like they were at Sibley’s!

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) has won his reelection bid for state Assembly in the 139th District. First elected in 2006, Hawley has an extensive record of delivering results for Western New York. During his reelection campaign, Hawley ran on the platform of bringing back conservative principles to our state while bringing down costs for working families and supporting our law enforcement officers. Hawley is grateful to have received the support of the 139th Assembly District and looks forward to bringing common-sense policies back to Albany. 

“I want to thank the residents of the 139th Assembly District for their unwavering support in this year’s election,” said Hawley. “I spoke with countless voters throughout this campaign all the way from Albion to Batavia and I’m beyond grateful for the words of encouragement and support I received along the way. Last night, we saw an incredible return to conservative values that built our nation and our state. Now more than ever, New Yorkers want meaningful change and homegrown representation. I’m honored to be your choice to be a part of that change in Albany for the next two years. I will continue to support policies that will keep our community safe and affordable as we create a better future for Western New York.”

By Connor Beagle

Former Byron-Bergen standout soccer star Mackenzie Hagen is making waves at the collegiate level. The six-year varsity soccer player and three-time sectional champion for the Bees made headlines Wednesday night for a different team. 

Hagen, now a Freshman at Division II Roberts Wesleyan University and member of the Redhawks soccer team not only collected her first collegiate assist, but also netted her first career goal for the Redhawks.

Roberts traveled to Buffalo to face conference opponent D’Youville in a must win game for the Redhawks. The Redhawks got out to a quick start, ripping shots early and often. 

Hagen had seen action in eight games prior to Wednesday night’s contest. While in those eight games Hagen had been involved in a fair amount of action, she had only recorded one shot. Wednesday night saw Hagen check into the game in the 17th minute and quickly rip off a shot just two minutes later that was ultimately saved by the Saints keeper. 

Roberts got off two more shots before Junior midfielder Larissa Johnston scored off a one-hop pass from Hagen in the 22nd minute. Hagen would finish out the half, as the Redhawks went shot for shot with D’Youville.

The second half began and it seemed like neither team could find an attack. Hagen checked back into the game in the 64th minute after sitting to start the second half. It did not take long for Hagen’s presence to be known, as she drilled a shot in the 72nd minute that was again saved by the D’Youville keeper. 

The Saints knotted the game up minutes later after a costly foul by Redhawk Sophomore defender Jenna Northup on a penalty kick by Junior Laoise O’Haodha. With the score all tied up, the Redhawks needed to make a big play quickly. That play came just seven minutes later as Jenna Northup sent a cross deep into the box to Junior defender Emma Taylor, who headed the ball to the feet of Hagen who crushed it into the back of the net, sealing the deal for the Redhawks, who also clinched a spot in the East Coast Conference tournament with the 2-1 victory and snapped a four-game skid.

Game winning goals are nothing new to Hagen, as she clinched Byron-Bergen’s third consecutive sectional championship with a game winning goal in a 4-3 overtime win against Keshequa last October.

When Roberts Head Coach Jeff Vieira was asked about Hagen’s performance, he stated: “She has been working hard throughout the season, so it was good for her to get the winning goal after all that she has been doing the past two months. For her to do it in a big moment was extra special and we hope there are many more of those moments to come.”

Three days later Hagen would score another goal in the Redhawks final home game of the season in a 3-1 loss to conference opponent Molloy University.

Press Release:

The VA Western New York Healthcare System Enrollment and Eligibility, Connected Care, Medical Foster Home, Speech and Language Pathology, Suicide Prevention, and Visually Impaired Services teams will be on-site to meet with Veterans at State Senator George Borrello's Veteran Enrollment and Outreach Event on Thursday, November 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the VFW Post 1602-Veness-Strollo, 25 Edwards Street in Batavia.

During the event, Veterans and their families can learn about VA benefits and VA representatives will be on hand to answer questions about healthcare options, the federal PACT Act, and more.

No registration is required.

Press release:

Senator George Borrello expressed his gratitude to the voters of New York’s 57th Senate District for their trust in his continued leadership. Running unopposed, Senator Borrello was re-elected to his third term in the State Senate, reaffirming his commitment to upholding the conservative values of Western New York.

“I am honored to serve as your Senator, and I thank you for your steadfast support,” Senator Borrello said. “As Albany pushes its extreme agenda, I am more determined than ever to defend hardworking New Yorkers who feel left behind.”

As Chair of the Senate Republican Campaign Committee, Senator Borrello celebrated the return of all 21 Republican incumbents plus the pickup of a seat in Brooklyn that will end the Democrats’ supermajority. He welcomed Stephen Chan as the newest member of the Senate Republican Conference. “Stephen’s election sends a strong message that New Yorkers are calling for leaders who put public safety and common sense first,” said Borrello. “With dedicated allies like Stephen, we’re positioned to tackle crucial issues—repealing disastrous bail reform, ending harmful sanctuary policies, and making our state more affordable for everyone. His addition strengthens our Conference and amplifies the voices of New Yorkers demanding change.”

Senator Borrello congratulated newly elected Assembly allies, including Andrew Molitor and Joe Sempolinski in the 150th and 148th Districts, Andrea Bailey in the 133rd District, and returning Assemblymen, Stephen Hawley and David DiPietro. “Andrew, Joe, Stephen, David, and Andrea bring strong voices to Albany,” he said. “They will be valued partners in the effort to address public safety, tax relief, and job creation across the state."

Senator Borrello also praised President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, calling it a testament to America’s desire for change. "This win shows our country is done with reckless policies. President Trump will bring strength and stability back, especially as we fight the far-left agenda in New York.” Borrello emphasized that the Trump administration will address failed border policies that have created chaos, strained resources, and increased crime. "President Trump will re-secure the border and put American families’ safety first.”

Senator Borrello also expressed regret over the passage of Proposition 1, despite the strong grassroots efforts he helped lead in opposition to the amendment. “Prop 1 was a Trojan Horse designed to undermine our freedoms, threaten parental rights, and erode the values that define our communities,” he said. “While the outcome was disappointing, the dedicated grassroots efforts from people across the state helped raise awareness of the dangers lurking in this so-called ERA. We will not stop fighting to protect our state from such dangerous overreach.”

Entering his next term, Senator Borrello remains committed to fighting for lower taxes and safer communities as well as supporting small businesses.  He will continue his work toward a brighter future for Western New York and the Empire State.

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R, C-Batavia) was proud to honor Chapin International and Max Pies Furniture, two staple businesses in Western New York, on Tuesday, Oct. 29, for being officially designated on the New York Historic Business Preservation Registry (HBPR). Established in 1920, the HBPR highlights the legacy of local businesses that have made a significant impact in their communities, offering them recognition and support to continue growing and serving the public.

On Tuesday, Oct. 29, Assemblyman Hawley presented certificates to both businesses in honor of their recognition. This recognition represents their long-standing service and dedication to their community, enriching the Batavia area.

Assemblyman Hawley admires the businesses, stating, “Both Chapin International and Max Pies Furniture have built a legacy of hard work, integrity and service to the people of Batavia and the greater part of Western New York. Recognizing these historic businesses is about honoring their contributions to our communities and supporting their continued success,” said Hawley. “Their presence has been a pillar in Batavia, and I am honored to celebrate their achievements.”

The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “The New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry is a remarkably diverse collection of businesses across the state that have demonstrated generations of dedication to their local economies and communities. We welcome the opportunity to recognize businesses like Max Pies Furniture Company through this honorific program and appreciate receiving nominations from state elected officials to help this registry grow. With more than 200 businesses now listed, it is a fascinating history lesson on New Yorkers’ ongoing ambition, ingenuity and perseverance.”

The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “The New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry is a remarkably diverse collection of businesses across the state that have demonstrated generations of dedication to their local economies and communities. We welcome the opportunity to recognize businesses like Chapin Manufacturing through this honorific program and appreciate receiving nominations from state elected officials, who will help this registry continue to grow. With over 200 businesses now listed, it is a fascinating history lesson on New Yorkers’ ambition, ingenuity, and perseverance.”

Press release:

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney decisively won the 2024 General Election for NY-24.
 
“I am honored by the overwhelming support from the voters of NY-24 tonight. Our grassroots campaign was able to reach voters in every corner of this new district with our message of economic growth, a secure border and safe streets,” Tenney said. “Since representing NY-24, our office has delivered millions for this community, stood up for local taxpayers against oppressive governments in Albany and Washington and remain the only Member of Congress to explain every vote I take on the House Floor in detail. Our unparalleled transparency and aggressive advocacy have resonated with voters across all party lines. While our election may be over, the fight has just begun to ensure President Trump’s victory tonight along with key Congressional Districts. As the founder and Chair of the Election Integrity Caucus, we will continue to closely monitor the swing states and swing districts to ensure that only legal votes are counted," Tenney continued.

At the time of this release, Claudia Tenney held a commanding lead.

Press Release:

As the holiday season approaches, the Salvation Army in Batavia is excited to announce the launch of its annual Red Kettle Campaign, set to begin in November 2024. 

This initiative aims to raise funds to provide warm clothing, holiday meals, and gifts to families in need, as well as to support year-round family service programs. The campaign presents an opportunity to spread joy and make a meaningful impact in our community.

In light of declining contributions in recent years, we are actively seeking support from local businesses and organizations to help achieve our campaign goals. This year, we aim to raise $100,000, with a target of securing $50,000 before the bell ringing begins outside select locations. 

We are inviting local partners to join us in this effort through:

Donations: Financial contributions, gift items, or resources that directly benefit those we serve.

Volunteers: Individuals or teams willing to assist with bell ringing at various locations during the campaign.

Christmas Partnerships: Sponsorship opportunities at different levels, including Press Release sponsors, T-shirt sponsors, and Social Media sponsors.

For more information contact Bradley Moore at 585-343-6284.

Press Release:

This year EMTs, Laura Platt and Tatum Higby from Byron Fire Department’s Rescue Squad, took first place in the NYS Basic Life Support competition. 

The EMS Games held this year at the Riverside Convention Center in Rochester on October 16-20 brought together teams of EMTs and Paramedics from across New York State for an exciting competition sponsored by Aura Prep and the BMCC Paramedic Program. The event featured a series of challenging, real-world scenarios designed to test participants' clinical skills, quick thinking, and teamwork under pressure.

Teams demonstrated their expertise in emergency response, patient care, and problem-solving, vying for top honors and recognition. The sponsorship by BMCC and Aura Prep highlighted their commitment to advancing EMS education and fostering a robust and skilled community of first responders across the state.

The workshop is designed to help first responders hone their knowledge and collect CME credits to maintain their license with the state. The last one held in Rochester was in 2017.

Besides Platt and Higby, Brad Nickerson, Squad Captain attended. Higby is an energetic 17-year-old who recently completed her Basic EMT Training in March of this year while attending Byron-Bergen High School as a junior.

Higby currently has completed all her CME credits for recertification, which is 3 years away. Higby was so excited when she learned that Vital Signs was being held in Rochester; she was eager to learn even more.

This year the council added a new twist for all attending. The games were held at the Strong Museum of Play on Saturday, October 19 in the morning. Each company was encouraged to sign up a team that would then participate in a “real life scenario.” Higby urged her mentor, Platt, to team up and compete. Higby created the team’s name, “Lil Legs of Byron.” 

Just before the “call” the teams consisting of two people were given a few minutes to familiarize themselves with the equipment available for them to use; and they were allowed 20 minutes to complete the call. 

The scenario that the Byron team was in a restaurant setting where an employee was having trouble breathing. The team accessed the scene and the patient, who was alone in the restaurant. The team used all their skills as they treated the patient with oxygen, EpiPen and albuterol to keep the patient alive because they were notified that the ambulance was 40 minutes away. 

The two teams that were in first place in both categories, EMT and Advanced, received medals. Both winners were also awarded a large trophy cup that they can keep and display for the year. It will eventually have their names and date engraved on it.

Team Lil Legs of Byron took the EMT first place. Second place went to Wayne County and third place to Madison County. The Byron Fire Department will proudly display their trophy in their hall.