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Annual BID Wine Walk is set for October 5 with a 'masquerade'

By Press Release

Press Release:

The theme for this year’s annual downtown Wine Walk is "masquerade," and the Batavia Business Improvement Distric invites you to join us for an evening of fun and entertainment during the event from 4 to 8 p.m. Oct. 5 in Batavia.

Tonawanda Valley Federal Credit Union (TVFCU) will host registration from 3:45 to 5:45 p.m., and ticket holders can stroll, sip, and shop 23 participating downtown businesses during the four-hour walk.

Only 600 tickets are being sold and they are going fast, BID Director Shannon Maute says.

“Come downtown, taste great wine, meet new people, see old friends, and create memories while you shop small and support your local businesses,” she said. “You must be 21 years of age or older to attend, and please no children.”

Tickets are $35 and are available at Yngodess Shop, TVFCU, Adam Miller Toys & Bicycles and at Eventbrite. For more information, go to BID’s Facebook page for the link and details.

Genesee Society of Model Engineers to host the 105th 'Great Batavia Train Sale' October 13

By Press Release
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Submitted photo.

Press Release:

The Genesee Society of Model Engineers will host the 105th “Great Batavia Train Sale” on Sunday, October 13, 9:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m., at the Richard C. Call Arena, Genesee Community College, 1 College Road, Batavia. Admission is $6 for Adults, $3 for under 18 years, and Free for under 13 years.

The popular train show typically attracts 1,200 to 1,500 model railroad enthusiasts and railfans from across Western and Central NY, Northwestern Pennsylvania, and Southern Ontario. There are over 100 vendors occupying 250 tables offering merchandise ranging from antique railroad artifacts to the most modern digitally controlled model trains. This bi-annual show has steadily grown to become one of the premiere events of its kind in Western New York.

The train club hosts two shows each year, a Spring show, and a Fall show. A free Open House is held, typically, on the first Saturday of December at the Club’s facilities in Oakfield where club members maintain operating layouts in O Gauge (Lionel), HO & N scale.

The Genesee Society of Model Engineers is located at 50 Main Street (Rte. 63), Oakfield (above the M&T Bank), and is open Tuesdays from 7 - 9 p.m. Business meetings are held the last Tuesday of each month. Visit www.gsme.org. Like us on Facebook. Visitors welcomed. (Stair access only.)

'Stitches In Time' biennial quilt show to display over 150 quilts

By Press Release
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Tickets for the 2024 Raffle Quilt are available from guild members and will be available for purchase at the show. The quilt measures 77” x 73”. The winner is to be announced Saturday evening at the end of the show.
Submitted photo.

Press Release:

The Museum Quilt Guild of Batavia will present their biennial “Stitches In Time” quilt show on Friday, October 18, and Saturday, October 19, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. each day.

There will be more than 150 quilts displayed at the Alexander Fireman’s Recreation Hall at 10708 Alexander Rd (Rt 98) in Alexander. All of the quilts have been made by guild members.

In addition to our professionally judged quilt display, we will have vendors, demonstrations, a raffle quilt, silent auction, boutique, basket raffle, and a fabric pool. 

Admission is $6, children 10 and under are free. For more information, contact Elaine 585-880-0456, or visit our website @ www.Themuseumquiltguild.com.

Arc GLOW to host annual awards banquet October 9 to celebrate individuals and community supporters

By Press Release

Press Release:

Arc GLOW will be holding its second Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet on October 9 at 5:30 p.m. at Batavia Downs. Rebecca Leclair, the President of Rebecca Leclair Communications, LLC and former anchor and reporter from WHEC-TV (Channel 10), will be the emcee.

Individuals will also be providing entertainment. For a month, Arc GLOW nominated staff, individuals and community members for a variety of different awards.

The award winners are the following:

Self-Advocate of the Year

To honor a person served by Arc GLOW who has grown and is meeting their personal outcomes. They also have positively influenced the lives of others.

Nathan Johnidas, Albion

Supported Employment Person of the Year

To honor a person supported by Arc GLOW who has demonstrated a strong work ethic, dedication to their job, ability to learn new community employment skills and maintain successful employment.

Elizabeth Padilla, Walnut Street, Batavia 

Pre-Vocational Person of the Year

To honor a person supported by Arc GLOW with a dedication to learning about the world of work including new job skills, striving to complete quality work and showing attention to the task of learning.

Tammy Reimels, Hilltop

Residential Person of the Year

To honor a person supported by Arc GLOW who resides in residential services, grew in their independence and learned life skills.

Monica Mineo, Garfield IRA in Batavia

Day Habilitation Person of the Year

To honor a person supported by Arc GLOW who participates in day habilitation activities, strives to learn, and demonstrates effort and commitment to be included in their own communities.

James Gibbs, WOW Day Hab in Batavia

Community Services and Self Direction Person of the Year

To honor a person served by Arc GLOW who shows outstanding participation and contribution to their community. Shows the initiative in trying new activities and gain leadership potential through community involvement.

Brittany Murphy, Genesee County

KidStart Employee of the Year

To honor an employee who demonstrates exceptional support to children and families, and is committed to assist in all areas of their growth and education.

Maggie Putman

Direct Support Professional Person of the Year (DSP)

To honor a DSP who provides a variety of activities to adults with developmental disabilities within a home setting, day programs or recreational activities in the community. Provides excellence in support in living skills, personalized goals, arts and crafts, sensory activities, and facilitates our individuals to take their active role in the community.

Heather Taft, residential manager at Avon IRA in Avon

Employee of the Year

To recognize an employee of Arc GLOW who is committed to the mission and vision. They demonstrate the values of diversity, respect, integrity, visionary, equality, empowerment and excellence.

Heidi Wyant, transportation manager

Friend of the Year

Community friend and supporter of Arc GLOW’s mission and vision.

Hoffman Hanafin & Associates, LLC

Business Partner of the Year

A partner who supports our mission and vision through excellent customer service or providing work opportunities for employment.

Aunt Cookies in Geneseo

Volunteers of the Year

To honor a person who is committed to Arc GLOW, volunteering their time by serving the local community and supporting the Arc GLOWs mission and vision.

Kevin and Dawn Fisher

Reservations are open until Sept. 30. at ArcGLOW.org/event/awards-banquet-and-annual-meeting. For any questions, contact Tracey Jones at (585) 343-1123 ext. 1735 or TJones@ArcGLOW.org.

HomeCare & Hospice brings the game day spirit to Batavia Down with 'Tailgate Thursday'

By Press Release

Press Release:

Tailgating, in the context of sporting events, is defined as fans gathering in the stadium parking lot to build excitement for their team's home game. From the backs of their cars and trucks, football fans enjoy food, drinks, and games for hours. It's a tradition unique to American culture and offers a fun, lively experience.

HomeCare & Hospice (HCH) of Batavia is introducing a new event to their Fall lineup – Tailgate Thursday to be held Thursday, November 7 at Batavia Downs beginning at 5:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. 

This tailgate event is where you will eat, drink, and play games – basically a tailgate before the football game that night (exchange out the Raven’s M&T Bank Stadium for the Park Place Event Center at Batavia Downs)!

HCH operates with offices in Allegany, Cattaraugus, Genesee, and Wyoming Counties. 

"Our staff was tasked with organizing a 'fun' and 'fund' raising event in our northern service area. This time of year, everyone in Western New York is a Bills fan, and we all love chicken wings. What better combination than football, wings, and fun?" stated Melissa Sullivan, HCH Chief Executive Officer.

Tickets are $35 which includes your tailgate pass, wings, additional tailgate foods, and entry into fun and games. The food staff at the Batavia Downs will be (tentatively) serving up wings in these flavors: mild, medium, BBQ, garlic parm, honey garlic, spicy BBQ, Old bay, Original Buffalo, Teriyaki, and lemon pepper. Of course, there will be celery, carrots and bleu cheese – but the menu also includes Buffalo’s Finest Station of house-made potato chips, pizza logs, mini beef on weck, and pretzel bites. Attendees will have 10 wing tix which they can sample/taste from the variety of wings that will be on hand.

“Support from the corporate and business sector plays a vital role in the success of our event. Their involvement helps raise awareness, attract attendees, and spread the message about our cause to a wider audience. With their support, we can reach more people, enhance community engagement, and increase the impact of our fundraising efforts,” added Ms. Sullivan.

The event needs additional local businesses and organizations to become a 12th man sponsor or a blitz backer to put on this FANtastic event. 12th Man OPTION: This option ($250) includes your company logo/name on our poster, social media posts indicating your participation, event signage, and two tickets to the event (value $80). BLITZ Backer OPTION: This option ($500) includes your company name mentioned in radio ads, company logo/name on poster, social media posts, event signage, and four event tickets (value $160).

The complete roster of events is not firmed up yet, but hoping to add music, trivia contests, football toss games, (pre-recorded) football games streamed on tvs, and pre-game of the Bengals – Ravens game.

Tickets will go on sale September 27 online at homecare-hospice.org/events/, at the HomeCare & Hospice office, 29 Liberty St., Suite 6, Batavia or by emailing snegron@homecare-hospice.org. For more information, please call 716-372-2106.

Traffic delays on city streets for resurfacing Friday

By Press Release

Press Release:

All motorists please be aware the following streets (listed in the following predicted order) will experience traffic delays on Friday, September 27 between the hours of 6 a.m. – 4 p.m. for resurfacing operations:

Kibbe Avenue
Oakland Avenue
Jackson Avenue
Evans Street

While work is being performed in these areas, local traffic will be permitted to and from their residence/property but should plan accordingly for delays.

All residents/businesses within the work area are asked not to park on the roadway during the operation. All motorists that regularly use these streets are asked to seek alternate routes while the delays are in place.

This work is weather dependent and will continue on the next business day if necessary.

Contact the Bureau of Maintenance at 585-345-6400 opt. 1 if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you for your cooperation.

Photos: 6th Annual GLOW With Your Hands at Genesee County Fairgrounds

By Press Release
Over 30 schools around the GLOW region participated in the 6th annual event.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
More than 30 schools around the GLOW region participated in the 6th annual event.
Photo by Steve Ognibene

Students from school districts in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties engage with employers throughout the event, exploring careers that could unveil new opportunities they may not have previously considered.

Over 70 businesses provided hands-on activities and simulations in the advanced manufacturing, agriculture, food production, skilled trades sectors as well as the various branches of the military. Students learned about career opportunities in their own backyard that offer good-paying opportunities immediately after high school graduation, as well as accelerated training programs available in the region.

 “We have seen GLOW With Your Hands participants grow into successful professionals, and businesses that participate in our manufacturing and healthcare event grow their next generation. Having over 1,000 students and a record number of employers at our event reaffirms that there is a significant need for these connections and a significant benefit created at our events,” added GLOW With Your Hands, Co-Chair Karyn Winters.

Led by Platinum Sponsors LandPro Equipment, National Grid, and newcomer Davis-Fetch, many businesses have participated in every GLOW With Your Hands since 2019, including representatives of the advanced manufacturing, agriculture, food and beverage manufacturing, and construction trades.

Davis-Fetch specializes in commercial building construction services focusing on building interior spaces, walls, ceilings, and acoustical wall panels. This is the company’s inaugural GLOW With Your Hands event featuring a hands-on demonstration of installing drywall screws and using a drywall zip tool around electrical boxes. Davis-Fetch used this as an opportunity to engage with the next generation of workforce candidates in the GLOW region.

“Rather than setting up a booth and speaking with students, we were able to interact with the next generation of workforce candidates with a hands-on approach that was educational and informative of our work, " said Davis-Fetch President Frank Kittlinger. “After witnessing the engagement of over a thousand students today, we look forward to being a part of GLOW With Your Hands annually.”

After launching in 2019 with 800 students, GLOW With Your Hands has grown into the premier workforce development program in the region. Including GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare, a hands-on medical careers program held annually in March, more than 5,000 students have participated in GLOW With Your Hands events since 2019.

“Our goal is to provide local youth with family-sustaining career opportunities that lead to fulfilling lifestyles and positively impact local communities,” said GLOW With Your Hands Co-Chair Angela Grouse. “By getting hands-on and informational experiences, our students are taking the first step toward that goal.”

 Albion High School Senior Joseph Schoberlein said he was not aware of many of the careers present at GLOW With Your Hands before today and came away with an understanding of what opportunities are available to him after graduation this upcoming spring.

 “There are a number of jobs you learn about at GLOW With Your Hands that you do not experience in a traditional classroom setting, a lot of these careers do not require a college degree. I can enter the workforce immediately out of high school with a good-paying job without taking the college route,” stated Schoberlien.

 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene

 

Tenney condemns Hochul administration’s silence on embedded Chinese Communist Party agent

By Press Release

Press Release:

File photo of 
Claudia Tenney

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) issued the following statement in response to the Hochul Administration’s failure to address her inquiries by the September 18 deadline regarding the Department of Justice's recent indictment of Linda Sun, a high-ranking official in the Hochul administration, for allegedly acting as an agent of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

“Governor Hochul's failure to respond promptly sends a dangerous message not only to the CCP but to all foreign adversaries seeking to infiltrate our government. Clearly, Governor Hochul does not take this issue seriously and is content with CCP infiltration of her administration. We must hold Governor Hochul accountable and ensure any other CCP operatives within this administration are exposed and removed. In addition, Hochul must recognize the serious consequences this has had on the state's relationship with Taiwan and our economy. Her administration must immediately address these concerns and initiate a bipartisan investigation to ensure no compromised CCP agents remain employed by New York State," said Congresswoman Tenney.

View the letter Tenney sent to Governor Hochul on September 5 here.

Genesee Amateur Hockey Association offering beginner ice hockey program for kids

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee Amateur Hockey Association is offering a Beginner Ice Hockey Learn to Play Program at the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena, located on Evans Street next to the Batavia Fire Department in Batavia. This program is open to boys and girls ages 4 and up, and no prior skating experience is needed.

Session I lasts for 15 weeks and costs $125, while Session II is also 15 weeks and costs $75. The program starts on October 5.

A Beginner Orientation will take place on Wednesday, October 2, at 6 p.m. at the rink, and everyone is invited to attend. For additional information, including the schedule and registration instructions, please contact Marcia Barnes at 585-409-1383 or via email at Barnes.marcia21@gmail.com.

For more details, visit www.BataviaRamparts.com. Don’t go through life without goals—play hockey! GO RAMPARTS!

GCC welcomes eight new full-time faculty for 2024-2025 academic year

By Press Release

Press Release:

Genesee Community College (GCC) is proud to welcome eight new full-time faculty members for the 2024-2025 academic year. These distinguished educators bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion to our campus, enhancing our commitment to academic excellence and student success.

Ariane Bianchi, Instructor of Nursing

Ariane comes from Golisano Children's Hospital Pediatric Cardiac Care Center and has been a pediatric clinical instructor for GCC. Ariane earned her associate degree in Nursing from GCC and her bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of Rochester. She intends to pursue her master's in nursing education in the coming year.

Jillian Eberlin, Instructor of Mathematics

Jillian was a Mathematics teacher at OneSchool Global North America, Rochester Campus, and has taught several semesters as a math adjunct instructor at Bryant & Stratton College. Jillian earned her bachelor's degree in Mathematics and master's degree in Mathematics from SUNY Brockport.

Kathryn Edwards, Nursing Clinical Coordinator

Kathryn was a pediatric nurse practitioner at Stony Brook Pediatrics and prior to that worked at Golisano Children's Hospital. She obtained her bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of Buffalo and her master's degree from the University of Rochester. Kathryn most recently completed her post-master's dual certification in the Family Nurse Practitioner Program at St. John Fisher University.

Metin Eroglu, Instructor of Mathematics

Metin has been in higher education since 2008 as a student, full-time instructor, and tutor most recently working for SUNY Buffalo and Wyzant. Metin earned his bachelor's degree in Mathematics from The University of Texas and his master's degree in Statistics from Michigan State University.

Katie Jennings, Instructor of Nursing

Katie was a Clinical Resource Nurse at Rochester Regional Health in Batavia and has been a Clinical Nursing Instructor for GCC. Katie earned her associate degree in Nursing from GCC, her bachelor's degree in Nursing from SUNY Brockport and is pursuing her master's degree in Nursing at Western Governor's University.

Krysia Mager, Instructor of Business

Krysia worked as an adjunct at GCC and is coming from Tompkins Community Bank in Batavia where she was the Assistant Vice President of Creative Content. Krysia earned her associate degree in Communication from GCC, her bachelor's degree in Journalism Communication from SUNY Brockport and her master's degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Marist College.

Dr. Timothy McCorry, Assistant Professor of Social Sciences/Coordinator of Special Programs

Timothy has 25 years of experience teaching various courses in sociology, psychology, and criminal justice at the University at Buffalo, Buffalo State University, and Medaille University. This past spring, he began to adjunct at GCC. He earned his associate degree from Nassau Community College, his bachelor's and master's degrees from St. John's University and his Ph.D. from the University at Buffalo.

Dr. Scott Wilson, Assistant Professor of Veterinary Technology

Scott was an Associate Emergency Veterinarian/Urgent Care Veterinarian at the Greater Buffalo Veterinary Emergency Clinic. He received both his associate and bachelor's degrees in Veterinary Technology from Medaille College and his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Ross University School of Medicine.

"As we welcome these talented educators to Genesee Community College, we look forward to the fresh perspectives and innovative teaching methods they will bring to our classrooms. Their arrival marks an exciting chapter in our ongoing mission to deliver high-quality education and support the success of our students," said Genesee Community College President, Dr. Craig Lamb.

For more information contact Vice President, Development, Admissions and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu.

Shauna Blake to lead silk painting demo at GO ART! on October 8

By Press Release
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Press Release:

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Shauna Blake

The Batavia Society of Artists (BSA) will host artist Shauna Blake for a hands-on silk painting demonstration on Tuesday, October 8, from 7 - 9 p.m. at GO ART!. Blake will explain her creative process and provide attendees with the chance to try silk painting themselves.

In addition, BSA member Adrian Morris will hold a solo art show at the Richmond Memorial Library, with an opening reception on Thursday, September 26, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. His exhibition will be available for viewing during regular library hours through the end of October.

Shauna Blake, Artist Bio

Shauna Blake started painting in her early teens and has devoted her entire working life to her artwork. She has a love for nature and the outdoors and uses the inspiration and energy it provides to create her art. 

She paints in a wide variety of mediums including, silk painting, watercolors, acrylics and pastels. 

In 1994 she graduated from The Art Institute of Pittsburgh with a major in Graphic Design and Illustration. She worked in the Graphic Design field for 7 years before joining her husband, Brendan in his glass art business in 2001. Here she expanded her art by studying and creating lampwork glass beads.

Then in 2009 she discovered silk painting. She found that painting on silk was the perfect fit for her creative and expressive artistic style. She sold her hand painted silk scarves, silk ribbons and art prints worldwide until earlier this year. 

In 2022 she started her next business Nail Fox where she designs and sells 100% Nail Polish Wraps.

Shauna currently sells her nail polish wrap designs worldwide on her website. www.Nail-Fox.com

Shauna will demonstrate her unique silk painting techniques. This a hands on demo, where everybody will have a chance to try out this exciting medium. Supplies will be provided.

Submitted photos.

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Rochester Regional Health receives 2024 Outstanding Heart Failure Care Team award

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Sands-Constellation Heart Institute (SCHI) Advanced Heart Failure and Mechanical Circulatory Support team at Rochester Regional Health (RRH) has been recognized as the 2024 Outstanding Heart Failure Care Team by the Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA). The Rochester team is traveling to the annual HFSA Scientific Meeting in Atlanta to receive the award.

“For years, patients with serious heart conditions, including heart failure, often had to travel outside the region to find specialized care. This award affirms what we’ve always known: world-class cardiac care is available right here at Rochester Regional Health,” said Dr. G. Randall Green, MD, JD, MBA and Executive Medical Director of SCHI. “This national recognition underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional, life-saving care to the patients and communities we serve every day.”

The Advanced Heart Failure and Mechanical Circulatory Support Team is made up of physicians, Advanced Practice Practitioners, nurses, pharmacists, nutritionists, social workers and support team members, who treat thousands of patients a year. Patients travel to Rochester if necessary to receive the latest and most advanced treatments or even take part in groundbreaking clinical trials. They can then continue their treatment plans and receive services close to home in one of our many community-based SCHI provider offices. The team integrates modern technologies such as remote monitoring and teleconferencing to look for symptoms and stay connected.

“Our team and our patients have become family, and we live our purpose of uplifting humanity through care for our community by providing nationally-recognized cardiac care in a geographically isolated and underserved region of New York State,” said Dr. Scott Feitell, MD, Heart Failure Expert with the Sands-Constellation Heart Institute. “Whether we are conducting a clinical trial to examine the effectiveness of new, cutting-edge treatment options or developing treatment plans for those suffering from heart failure, my team and the professionals at the Sands-Constellation Heart Institute are here for our patients.”

To learn more about the RRH Sands-Constellation Heart Institute Advanced Heart Failure and Mechanical Circulatory Support team, heart disease, diagnostic and monitoring technology and heart failure treatments that include lifestyle and medical management support visit rochesterregional.org.

Gregory Kinal will be presenting at the next 'We've Only Just Begun' senior luncheon

By Press Release

Press Release:

The next “We’ve Only Just Begun” Sr. Luncheon's theme will be FALL. On Tuesday, October 15 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the South Alabama Firehall, Route 63 (2230 Judge Road, Oakfield). 

We will be starting lunch promptly at 11:45am to give our speakers more time. We are open to the public and welcome all!  

Our speaker this month will be Gregory P. Kinal, former History teacher at Pembroke Central School.  

He will be speaking about “DAY’S THAT SHOOK AMERICA” a program that touches on major news stories from 1900 to present.  

This fast-paced program covers a multitude of tragedies as well as triumphs experienced in the USA. You won’t want to miss this informative program this month!  

Bring your favorite dish-to-pass OR make a donation at the door! Come and enjoy lunch and an afternoon of fun with old and new friends. Co-chairpersons: Michael Hamm and LaNora Thompson.  

For more information contact LaNora Thompson at (630)-888-8966.

Health Department encourages residents to protect against mosquito borne illnesses

By Press Release

Press Release:

A human case of West Nile Virus has been confirmed in Orleans County.

“West Nile Virus is most commonly spread by the bite of an infected mosquito,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “The best protection against West Nile Virus and other mosquito-related illnesses is to prevent mosquito bites.”

Residents are encouraged to practice the following precautions:

  • Use an EPA-registered insect repellant and follow product label instructions. To find the best repellant for you, visit https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents.
  • Minimize exposed skin by wearing protective clothing like long sleeves and long pants tucked into socks, especially when outdoors at dusk or dawn when mosquitos are most active.
  • Wear clothing and gear treated with permethrin.
  • Reduce mosquito population around your home and property by removing any standing water, such as by emptying buckets, containers, pots, planters, and pool covers.

West Nile Virus infections occur most often during summer and early fall. Most people who are infected with West Nile Virus do not show any symptoms. 

According to the New York State Department of Health, roughly 20% of infected individuals will develop mild symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches, nausea, diarrhea, and rash. 

Severe illness may cause high fever, headache, neck stiffness, muscle weakness, disorientation, paralysis, and, in some cases, death. Individuals over the age of 50 are at highest risk for serious illness.

For more information on West Nile Virus, visit the New York State Department of Health.

For more information about GO Health Programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or contact your local health department at:

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

Award-winning program kicks off second year at Byron-Bergen Elementary School

By Press Release
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Byron-Bergen staff with Champions of Change award banner (from left to right) Pat McGee, Kristin Loftus, Jackie McCombs, Katie Kaercher, Megan Wahl, Jenna Voos, Debbie Slocum.
Photo by Gretchen Spittler.

Press Release:

On Thursday, September 19, Byron-Bergen Elementary School kicked off the second year of its New York State School Board Association (NYSSBA) Champions of Change award-winning compost program. A partnership with Impact Earth, the composting program began in January of 2024 and by the end of the school year had redirected 6,786 pounds of food waste from the landfill to become nutrient-rich soil.

“The students did a great job with this program last year,” said Elementary School Principal Kristin Loftus. “We just completed a refresher presentation with Doug Carney (Education Manager at Impact Earth) to remind our returning students and introduce our new students to what food items we compost and why so that we can start the new year successfully.”

According to Carney, the compost program at Byron-Bergen Elementary School was the most successful elementary school launch he had ever been part of. 

He commented, “On our end, we got almost no contamination, the bins were full every day, it all just worked. The student-led initiative went a long way to the program’s success and it’s a testament to the leadership at Byron-Bergen. I’m excited for the future of this program.” 

Loftus added, “We were also really excited to receive this special award from NYSSBA and we are going to display it proudly in our cafeteria.”

The Compost Crew was awarded the NYSSBA Champions of Change Recognition earlier in 2024. The award highlights programs which bring positive, meaningful change to the students, communities and districts across New York State.

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Byron-Bergen student sorting leftovers into compost bins.
Photo by Kristin Loftus.
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Impact Earth Education manager Doug Carney reveals the total food waste collected from January 2024 to the end of the school year during a presentation to students.
Photo by Gretchen Spittler.

Tompkins Financial advisors welcome new wealth advisor to WNY team

By Press Release

Press Release:

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Photo of Douglas R. Kallet, assistant vice president and wealth advisor of Tompkins Financial Advisors Western New York. 
Courtesy of Tompkins Financial

Demonstrating its commitment to upholding high standards of service, Tompkins Financial Advisors (Tompkins) in Western New York has appointed Douglas Kallet to wealth advisor. With years of extensive financial expertise, Kallet will help grow the business and generate more personalized financial solutions for his clients. Additionally, he will work closely with Tompkins’ loyal clients, building on and maintaining customer relationships, while sharing and implementing Tompkins’ extensive services to assist individuals in continuously growing their finances and meeting their financial goals for years to come.

“Doug’s commitment to providing exceptional financial solutions and services matches all of Tompkins’ values,” said James Sperry, senior vice president and managing director for Tompkins’ Financial Advisors Western New York region. “He considers both financial and personal goals of clients, while also embracing a friendly atmosphere, valuable assistance, and excellent financial guidance and direction. He will provide immense value to our team and the company as a whole.”

Kallet joins Tompkins with over 15 years of service in the financial industry with proficiencies in investment management, capital markets, financial services, consulting and commercial finance. He has succeeded in many roles with Western New York-based financial institutions, serving in the enterprise risk management sector of Five Star Bank, as a senior consultant with Actel Advisory Group, and in financial planning, analysis and overseeing treasury management for QED Technologies LLC. Kallet holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Le Moyne College and an MBA from the University of Rochester. He currently lives in Pittsford, New York with his wife, Christina, and two daughters.

Genesee gymnastics team finishes third in meet

By Press Release
genesee gymanstics
Front Row: Mikayla Yohon,  Lei St.Clair,  Kendall Chase,  Roan Finn; Middle Row: Edison Betances, Ava Pellegrino, Taryn Wright,  Sophia Matthews Back Row: Carsyn Good,  Chloe Garner,  Nee'Kay Smith,  Coach Hamilton (Emma Cooper not in picture).
Submitted Photo

Press release:

Team Results: 1. Fairport: 130.775, 2. Rush-Henrietta: 125.4, 3. Genesee: 111.25, 4. Corning: 94.0, 5. Mercy: 88.275, 6. HFL: 55.725, 7. Charles Finney: 17.8

All Around: 1. Evelyn Buttaccio (Rush-Henrietta): 33.55, 8. Roan Finn (Genesee): 29.975

Vault: 1. Kalliste Brandon (Mercy): 8.875, 11. Mikayla Yohon (Genesee): 7.55, 13. Roan Finn (Genesee): 7.475, 16. Edison Betances (Genesee): 7.35, 20. Kendall Chase (Genesee): 7.15, 25. Taryn Wright (Genesee): 6.7, 26. Nee'Kay Smith (Genesee): 6.65

Uneven Bars: 1. Evelyn Buttaccio (Rush-Henrietta): 8.7, 9. Roan Finn (Genesee): 7.25, 15. Carsyn Good (Genesee): 6.0, 16. Kendall Chase & Emma Cooper (Genesee): 5.95, 18. Edison Betances (Genesee): 5.6, 24. Ava Pellegrino (Genesee): 5.15

Balance Beam: 1. Sara Lago (Fairport): 9.05, 16. Nee'Kay Smith (Genesee): 7.225, 19. Roan Finn (Genesee): 6.8, 20. Emma Cooper (Genesee): 6.75, 21. Mikayla Yohon (Genesee): 6.6, 24. Ava Pellegrino (Genesee): 6.05, 26. Kendall Chase (Genesee): 5.95

Floor Exercise: 1. Sara Lago (Fairport): 9.35, 9. Roan Finn (Genesee): 8.45, 18. Emma Cooper (Genesee): 7.25, 20. Lei St. Clair & Carsyn Good (Genesee): 6.75, 22. Edison Betances (Genesee): 6.65, 27. Chloe Garner (Genesee): 5.6

The next meeting is Saturday, September 28, at the Elmira Gymnastics Club at 4:30pm. 

Boys Soccer: Batavia beats Pal-Mac 6-2

By Press Release
batavia boys soccer
Submitted photo

Press release:

The Batavia boys varsity soccer team beat Pal-Mac 6-2 on Saturday afternoon in a dominant showing, highlighted by two goals by Gavynn Trippany (#3), both assisted by Trevor Tryon (#8), two goals by Jaziah Ayala (#1), one assisted by Aiden Reimer (#14) and the other unassisted, one goal by Rylan Bohn (#24), assisted by Gavynn Trippany (#3), and one goal by Troy Hawley (#5), also assisted by Gavynn Trippany (#3). 

GC Highway Department to begin paving projects on Transit and Byron roads Tuesday

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee County Highway Department will begin road paving projects on Transit Road in Elba and Byron Road in Byron next week. Work will begin on Tuesday, September 24.

Transit Road in Elba will be closed in sections during the day but will reopen fully overnight. Residents will have access to their homes and businesses, and emergency vehicles will be able to pass through. 

Once Transit Road is complete, paving will shift to Byron Road in Byron, from State Route 262 to State Route 237. The road will be closed entirely during the project, with access for residents and emergency vehicles.

Both projects should be completed by Friday, September 27 weather permitting.

Rachael Herold graduates from SUNY Delhi

By Press Release

Press Release:

Over 800 students graduated from SUNY Delhi in the Spring of 2024. Commencement was held Saturday, May 18, with certificates, associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees conferred upon the classes of Fall 2023 and Spring 2024.

Rachael Herold of Pavilion graduated from SUNY Delhi with a bachelor's degree in Nursing.

 

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