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GCEDC board to consider $3.8M Le Roy project Thursday

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) board of directors will consider an initial resolution for a project by 9 Lent Avenue, LLC in the village of Le Roy.

The estimated $3.8 million project would renovate an existing 32,500 square-foot structure at 9 Lent Avenue and create 4 new jobs.

9 Lent Avenue, LLC has requested assistance valued at $267,725 in property tax abatements and $77,600 in sales tax exemptions, with the project estimated to generate $3,382,738 in fiscal returns based on new employment and new municipal revenue.

The GCEDC Board also will consider final resolutions for two community solar farm projects in the town of Le Roy.

FFP NY Le Roy Project1, LLC and FFP NY Le Roy Project2, LLC represent a total $20 million investment and will generate up to 7 megawatts of power through the installation of ground-mounted solar panels.

The GCEDC board meeting will be Thursday, September 5 at 4 p.m. at the MedTech Center’s Innovation Zone, 99 MedTech Drive, Batavia.

Meeting materials and links to a live stream/on-demand recording of the meeting is available at www.gcedc.com.

The Recovery Station schedules grand opening for Sept. 20; will stream NFL games on Sundays

By Press Release
luke-and-melissa-3.jpg
Luke Granger and Melissa Vinyard welcome the public to an open house at The Recovery Station on Clinton Street Road, Batavia, from 5-9 p.m. Sept. 20.

Press Release:

“Come and celebrate the grand opening of The Recovery Station. Be among the first to experience our new kitchen and discover your favorite spot in town.”

With that clear invitation, Luke Granger, director of Recovery Services at UConnectCare (formerly Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse), is welcoming everyone to check out the agency’s drug- and alcohol-free social gathering place at 5256 Clinton St. Rd., Batavia.

The grand opening is scheduled from 5 - 9 p.m. on Sept. 20 and will feature two bands – Groove and Black Cherry Voodoo – along with free food and refreshments. Reservations are requested by calling 585-815-5248 but not required.

Granger said The Recovery Station has come a long way since UConnectCare purchased the former Bohn’s Restaurant and opened it up to people in recovery in the spring of 2020.

“When the program was launched it was exactly when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, so we’ve never experienced any kind of grand opening,” he said. “And when I came on board, we were on a shoestring budget and did the best we could with what we had to work with.”

Since then, Granger said the agency has received grants and money from the opioid settlement “that has allowed us to do a number of different things, including renovating the kitchen and making some other capital purchases.”

He said he and his staff are pleased to be able to offer a variety of activities and to provide light food and refreshments to those who utilize the completely remodeled facility.

“This grand opening is about opening our arms to the community and allowing them to come in and join us – not only supporting recovery but celebrating those people in recovery,” he said.

Melissa Vinyard, coordinator of The Recovery Station, echoed Granger’s comments while adding that she realizes that people in recovery have a hard time locating social environments that don’t include alcohol.

“As a person in recovery, I think one of the greatest barriers for people in recovery are finding places to go to learn how to have fun again, without the drinking and without the drugs,” she said. “At The Recovery Station, they can find that outlet and take part in all that we have to offer – making new friends, playing pool, watching TV or using our fitness equipment.”

Vinyard also mentioned that The Recovery Station has purchased the NFL’s YouTube Sunday package and will be streaming games on the several big screen televisions that have been purchased recently.

“We’re going to be open on Sundays, starting with the first Buffalo Bills game on Sept. 8, and every Sunday to the Super Bowl,” she said. “We’re going to serve some refreshments and pizza and pop and other snacks and just have a good time rooting for the Bills and your favorite team.”

Submitted photos.

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Luke Granger stands in the renovated commercial kitchen at The Recovery Station, a program of UConnectCare, on Clinton Street Road, Batavia.
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Outside view of The Recovery Station, formerly Bohn’s Restaurant.

GO Art! residency artists Parris and Holly set to host four local artists and perform Sept. 19 & 26, Oct. 17 & 24

By Press Release
Parris and Holly
Photo by Iburi Photography.

Press Release:

Folk-pop duo Parris and Holly is thrilled to announce a four-night residency at Go Art!, located at 201 East Main Street in Batavia. The duo will host four Thursday night performances, starting on September 19 and continuing on September 26, October 17, and October 24. The performances will be free to the public.

Each evening will kick off with an hour-long set by a local artist from 7 - 8 p.m., followed by Parris and Holly from 8 - 9 p.m.

Featured Opening Acts: 

September 19: Howard B. Owens, publisher of The Batavian LLC

September 26: Alex Feig, area musician, songwriter, and former WBTA news producer

October 17: Billy Lambert, Le Roy resident and singer-songwriter, known for his work in the bands Woody Dodge, Lambertbilly, and the acoustic duo Damn the Flood

October 24: Chris Humel, artist and frontman of the punk band Cowboy Vampires 

Join us for these special evenings of music and community. No tickets are required, and all ages are welcome.

Holland Land Office Museum celebrates the US Constitution for monthly trivia night

By Press Release

Press Release:

Holland Land Office Museum (HLOM), in honor of Constitution Week (September 17 to 23), has scheduled the museum’s monthly trivia game topic on the U.S. Constitution.  

The HLOM, with support from the Anna Ingalsbe Lovell Chapter NSDAR, is providing the 1st and 2nd place prizes. The chapter has again contributed information for the Robert Morris display which documents Genesee County's connection to the nation’s founding.

Constitution week began in 1956 at the request of the NSDAR to Congress and was enacted by President Eisenhower. September 17 is always the opening day of Constitution week’s celebrations.

For more information on joining the NSDAR or Constitution Week please go to www.dar.org.

Trivia is set for September 12 at 7 p.m., light refreshments will be served. There is a $5 admission fee that covers the Trivia game.

Annual BID scarecrow contest is coming up and open to any business or group

By Press Release
2022 File Photo of a downtown scarecrow on Main Street in Batavia.
Photo by Howard Owens

Press Release:

The Batavia Business Improvement District is hosting its annual Scarecrow Contest for downtown Batavia as a creative way to add some more fall flavor to downtown decorating. 

The BID invites any business, group or organization to enter the contest. For $20, each business will be provided basic supplies of straw, a post and zip ties, along with their pole assignment. 

Each business can get creative in creating their scarecrow. All voting for favorite scarecrow ends Sunday, October 27. Winners will be announced on Halloween!

Supply pick up will be in Jackson Square on Tuesday, September 17 through Thursday, September 19 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. unless otherwise arranged.

Payment is due before or upon pick up. All
Scarecrows need to be up no later than October 4, and must be taken down by November 2.

The winner will receive a cash prize!

For more information on BID and Downtown events, please email
director@downtownbataviany.com, visit our Facebook Page or our Website at bataviabid.com.

Tompkins Community Bank introduces expanded commercial banking team

By Press Release

Press Release:

In an expansion of its team and its offerings, Tompkins Community Bank (Tompkins) has appointed Rijad Karabegovic to commercial cash management group leader and Chris McCormick to commercial relationship manager. Karabegovic will execute strategies that work to ensure Tompkins’ cash management products and services continue to meet clients’ evolving needs, while delivering world-class service to this important client base; McCormick will be responsible for business development across the Rochester region, strategically fostering new commercial banking relationships.

Bringing more than 20 years of industry expertise to his new role, Karabegovic will lead Tompkins’ commercial cash management group under President of Tompkins Community Bank, John McKenna. Previously, Karabegovic served as manager of commercial deposits, payments and cash management at ESL Federal Credit Union; before that, he worked as a senior vice president at HSBC Bank/HSBC Securities in Rochester. Committed to giving back to his community, Karabegovic is a board member and treasurer for The Monroe Plan for Medical Care and YourCare Health Plan, two New York-based not-for-profits.

McCormick comes to Tompkins with over 13 years of experience in the banking and finance industry. Chris is an accomplished banking professional who prioritizes assisting his clients in the growth and success of their business enterprises by serving as a strong and collaborative partner. He has assisted business entities of varying sizes in a wide range of industries and at each stage of development.  With his expertise in commercial lending, credit analysis and treasury management, he’s able to advise and provide financial solutions to businesses to best meet their specific needs. McCormick holds a master's in business administration from the University of Charleston, WV.

“A comprehensive approach to cash management and a strong commercial lending team are essential for Tompkins to contribute to our customers’ success and drive our growth as a company,” said President, Tompkins Community Bank, John McKenna. “The skills and expertise Rijad and Chris bring to their new roles will only enhance the already robust commercial banking team Tompkins has dedicated to the Rochester area.”

The addition of McCormick completes the growth of the Rochester Commercial Banking Team, enhancing client experience and services. The full team is comprised of:

  • Don Cortina, Rochester Region Commercial Banking Leader
  • Chris McCormick, Commercial Relationship Manager
  • Brett Owen, Commercial Relationship Manager
  • Scott Pittinaro, Commercial Relationship Manager

Karabegovic will lead the Tompkins’ Commercial Cash Management Group across Tompkins enterprise, including supporting the Rochester Commercial Banking Team’s efforts locally in Rochester, where Karabegovic will be based.

GLOW with your hands is seeking 15 more volunteers for 6th annual event

By Press Release

Press Release:

GLOW With Your Hands organizers are seeking 15 additional volunteers to support the coordination of 1,000 students from across the GLOW region for the 6th annual career exploration event being held on Tuesday, September 24 at the Genesee County Fairgrounds in Batavia.

“The success of GLOW With Your Hands is made possible through the generosity of volunteers in a variety of event-day roles, including tour guides for individual schools, and support at the entrance at the fairgrounds, parking and lunch areas,” said GLOW With Your Hands Co-Chair Karyn Winters said. “We are fortunate to have so many volunteers already registered but we need more to cover all our bases.”

The annual GLOW With Your Hands event provides students with hands-on career exploration in high-growth and high-demand careers. Activities such as welding, bricklaying and heavy equipment operation, and interactions with employers provide students with the insight to explore career opportunities with companies across the region.

“We’re tremendously excited to once again welcome so many companies and students to GLOW With Your Hands. The commitment and dedication of so many volunteers is what makes this amazing event possible,” said Angela Grouse, GLOW With Your Hands Co-Chair.

Registration for volunteers is available by emailing Karyn Winters at kwinters@geneseeny.com or filling out the volunteer form at www.glowwithyourhands.com/manufacturingvolunteers.

Hawley calls for delay to advanced clean truck regulation enforcement

By Press Release

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) drafted a letter to Gov. Hochul yesterday requesting that the Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) regulation delay its enforcement start date from January 1, 2025.

Following conversations with constituents and local business owners who rely on trucks for their operations, Hawley has learned that the implementation of the program – which resulted from an effort to curb excess emissions from shipping trucks – is already producing problems businesses are struggling to accommodate in this short timeframe. Hawley is asking for the delay until the NYS Energy Research and Development Authority conducts and concludes the highway and depot charging needs evaluation.

“The New York State Automobile Dealers Association (NYSADA) and the Trucking Association of New York (TANY) have already expressed concerns with the regulation’s implementation next year, and their claims need to be heeded” Hawley said.

“As a government we need to start listening to all stakeholders who will be affected by decisions New York State makes.  In this case, it would appear that truck dealers and trucking businesses have never been consulted. Unfortunately, this happens over and over again with the State of New York” Hawley said.

Previously:

Making a difference: UConnectCare aide Linda Ackley can relate to those struggling because she’s been there

By Press Release
Remote video URL

Press Release:

As someone in recovery for more than four decades, Linda Ackley knows what those struggling with substance use are going through.

Now in her 22nd year at UConnectCare (formerly Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse), Ackley is a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor currently is serving as a “tech.”

A dedicated employee, her experience and compassion have made a difference in the lives of her clients at the agency’s Atwater Community Residence and Detox Center.

It was in her mid-20s when Ackley came to grips with her excessive drinking and -- leaning on what she calls “her higher power” -- found the strength to put those days behind her.

“I went back to school and got my diploma (she had dropped out after becoming pregnant at the age of 16),” she said. “Then, I went to Genesee Community College and got my associate’s degree in social work, and from there I went to Brockport and got my bachelor’s degree in mental health/social work.”

Since then, she obtained her master’s degree and has worked tirelessly to counsel and mentor people seeking to break free from the grip of substance use.

“When you’re trying to relate to young people who are in the program, it makes a big difference if you can tell them that you’ve been there; that you know what the heck they’re going through,” she said. “If they find out that your book smart, they’re going to give you a hard time. They’ll say, ‘You don’t know how I feel.’ Yeah, you do know how they feel when you’ve been there.”

Ackley’s work ethic has transferred to her daughter, Carrie Anne, who also works at UConnectCare. She also has a son, John, who lives in Genesee County. Her other son, Francis, died in 2001.

When not at work, Ackley and her longtime partner, John, rescue animals – primarily cats.

“We've been saving the animals for years,” she said. “That’s my big thing now. I’ve got 12 of my own after I fixed them and got them all sets, and four kittens that I’m fostering right now.”

Ackley said she is proud of her granddaughter, Julietta, who is enrolled at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs in pursuit of a PhD.

“I raised her, although not my blood, right along with my other grandchildren (after Francis died),” she said. “I’ve had her for 20 years and she’s doing great.”

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Linda Ackley
Submitted photo.

Ackley suffered a severe injury to her right arm years ago while working at Genesee County ARC (resulting in replacement of the bone from the shoulder to the elbow), but that hasn’t slowed her down. She also underwent heart surgery earlier this year.

“They put a watchman into my left valve,” she said, adding that she returned to her job several weeks later.

As far as working at UConnectCare is concerned, Ackley said “this place is just like family.”

“It’s a great place to work,” she added. “We all work together and do our best for our clients.”

She said she encourages those in recovery – young people who have come through UConnectCare – to pursue a career in substance use or mental health counseling.

“We had two people here that were in the program that I encouraged to get into recovery, and after that come back here to work,” she said. “Guess what? They’re back here working.”

The path to recovery begins with U. At UConnectCare, we want you to work with us. For more information on employment opportunities, go to www.uconnectcare.org.

USDA launches new debt consolidation tool to help farmers manage operating debt

By Press Release

Press Release:

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is announcing the launch of the Debt Consolidation Tool, an innovative online tool available through farmers.gov that allows agricultural producers to enter their farm operating debt and evaluate the potential savings that might be provided by obtaining a debt consolidation loan with USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) or a local lender.

“Providing producers with options to structure their debt in a manner that affords them every opportunity to meet the goals of their agricultural operation is the best way to ensure the nation’s farmers and ranchers build financial equity and resilience,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux.  

A debt consolidation loan is a new loan used to pay off other existing operating loans or lines of credit that might have unreasonable rates and terms. By combining multiple eligible debts into a single, larger loan, borrowers may obtain more favorable payment terms such as a lower interest rate or lower payments. Consolidating debt may also provide farmers and ranchers additional cash flow flexibilities.  

The Debt Consolidation Tool is a significant addition to FSA’s suite of improvements designed to modernize its Farm Loan Programs. The tool enhances customer service and increases opportunities for farmers and ranchers to achieve financial viability by helping them identify potential savings that could be reinvested in their farming and ranching operation, retirement accounts, or college savings accounts.  

Producers can access the Debt Consolidation Tool by visiting farmers.gov/debt-consolidation-tool. The tool is built to run on modern browsers including Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or the Safari browser. Producers do not need to create a farmers.gov account or access the authenticated customer portal to use the tool. 

Tenney promotes tax plan she says will lower costs for families and small businesses

By Press Release

Press Release: 

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) unveiled her Tax Plan designed to reduce financial burdens on families and support small businesses in New York's 24th Congressional District and across the nation.

As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, which oversees the nation's tax policy, Tenney is leading the charge to make the tax code work for all Americans. Additionally, Tenney is committed to holding the IRS accountable and preventing unfair auditing practices.

"My top priority has always been to protect New York taxpayers and promote economic growth by advocating for a tax code that rewards hard work and entrepreneurship and allows Americans to take home more of their earnings," said Congresswoman Tenney. "The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), which I supported, was the most significant tax reform legislation signed into law in decades. I remain dedicated to supporting tax policies that are pro-growth, pro-worker, and fiscally responsible to shield hardworking taxpayers from high prices and wasteful spending by the government."

To view Tenney's full Tax Plan, click here.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s set for Batavia on September 14

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting Genesee and Wyoming County residents to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, September 14, at Centennial Park in Batavia. Registration opens at 10 a.m., with the Walk commencing at 11 a.m.

“This is a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer’s. There are now treatments that change the course of the disease,” says Kaitlyn Less, director of development for the Western New York Chapter. “We hope that everyone in the community can join us to help the Alzheimer’s Association raise awareness and funds for families facing the disease today, take more steps toward treatments and finally end this disease.”

Julia Rogers of Batavia has participated in the Genesee/Wyoming Walk for several years. “I Walk to honor those who live with this disease and in memory of those who passed away before a cure could be found,” she says. "It must be so scary for people with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Just for a moment imagine you can't come up with a close family member's or friend's name or participate in familiar activities like you used to. Our Walk supports the caregivers, family members and friends who have become the safety and security for their loved ones.”

On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony – a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.

Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In New York State, there are more than 426,5000 people living with the disease and 543,000 caregivers.

The funds raised through the Walk to End Alzheimer’s ensure the programs and services provided by the Alzheimer’s Association are free to all who need them, in addition to funding the research and advocacy efforts which have resulted in new treatments for people living in the early stage.

To register and receive the latest updates on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s for Genesee and Wyoming Counties, visit act.alz.org/GeneseeWyoming.

Graham Corporation executives to present at Gabelli Annual Aerospace & Defense Symposium on September 5

By Press Release

Press Release:

Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM) (“GHM” or “the Company”), a global leader in the design and manufacture of mission-critical fluid, power, heat transfer and vacuum technologies for the defense, space, energy and process industries, announced that Daniel J. Thoren, President, Chief Executive Officer, Christopher J. Thome, Vice President – Finance and Chief Financial Officer, and Matt Malone, Vice President of Graham Corporation and General Manager of Barber-Nichols, will present and be available, in person, for investor meetings at the Gabelli Annual Aerospace & Defense Symposium in New York, NY on Thursday, September 5.

The Company presentation is scheduled to begin at 1:15 p.m. Eastern Time.  A live audio webcast of the event with accompanying slides will be available at GHM Investor Relations.  An archive of the presentation will be available at the same link following the conference.

Batavia High School named School of Excellence by NYSPHSAA for 2023-2024

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Batavia City School District proudly announces that Batavia High School has been named a School of Excellence for the 2023-2024 academic year by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA). c

This prestigious recognition, awarded to schools where at least 75% of varsity teams qualify for and receive the NYSPHSAA Scholar-Athlete team award, highlights the exceptional academic and athletic achievements of Batavia's student-athletes across 25 varsity teams.

Superintendent Jason Smith expressed pride in the accomplishment, "This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our student-athletes, who excel not just in their sports but in the classroom as well. It reflects our district's commitment to fostering well-rounded individuals who prioritize both academic and athletic excellence. Moreover, this achievement shines a positive light on our entire Batavia community, showcasing the caliber of students we nurture and the supportive environment we've cultivated together."

Joel Reed, the newly appointed Director of Physical Education, Health & Athletics for Batavia City School District, shared his excitement about joining a district with such high standard, "I'm thrilled to be joining a school community where the students and coaching staff have set such a high bar for excellence. This achievement is impressive, and I look forward to working with everyone to continue this tradition of success both in academics and athletics. As we move forward, our goal is to not only maintain this standard but to inspire even more of our student-athletes to strive for this level of academic achievement. We encourage all our students to embrace the scholar-athlete mindset and reach for excellence in everything they do."

According to NYSPHSAA Executive Director Dr. Robert Zayas, "The efforts made by student-athletes in the classroom are paramount to their success in the athletic arena and beyond their high school days." He added, "We are proud of those who put in the work as 'student' and 'athlete,' as well as the growth in both of School of Excellence and Distinction recognition."

NYSPHSAA reports that the number of schools earning the School of Excellence Award has increased from 219 in the 2022-2023 school year to 226 in 2023-2024, indicating a growing commitment to academic excellence among student-athletes across the state.

Batavia High School will receive a commemorative award at the local athletic director workshop this fall, recognizing this significant achievement.

Haxton Memorial Library celebrates successful summer reading program with ice cream party

By Press Release
fb_img_1724975494263.jpg
Photo of the Ice Cream Celebration at the library.
Submitted photo.

Press Release:

The Haxton Memorial Public Library had 82 participants in attendance for the end of the Summer Reading Ice Cream Party on Thursday, August 15.

Our young readers were able to make their own sundaes and all prizes were distributed during this fun-filled evening at the library. 

The library had a busy summer with a total of over 236 children, teens, and adults participating in our Summer Reading Program, titled: “Adventure Begins at Your Library”. 

The children and teens recorded over 70,000 reading minutes combined and the library offered 40 programs (for children, teens, and adults) with an attendance of over 1,000 participants during our 6-week program. 

“We had such an amazing turnout and we are so proud of all of our readers this summer”, said Kim Gibson, Library Manager of the Haxton Memorial Public Library. 

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Photo of the Ice Cream Celebration at the library.
Submitted photo.

Genesee County offices to resume regular business hours on Tuesday

By Press Release

Press Release:

Starting Tuesday, September 3 Genesee County offices and departments will return to the general business hours of 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., concluding the summer hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

The change will not affect the total number of hours that County offices are open to the public.

Safety measures being put in place for 2024 Wings Over Batavia Air Show

By Press Release

Press Release:

Genesee County officials, in coordination with local and state agencies, are prioritizing the safety and security of all attendees at the forthcoming Wings Over Batavia Air Show. This event is scheduled to occur at the Genesee County Airport on Saturday, August 31, and Sunday, September 1, from 5 - 9 p.m.

Comprehensive Safety Measures

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Genesee County Office of Emergency Management, New York State Police, City of Batavia Police Department, Town of Batavia Fire Department and Mercy Flight EMS are collaborating to implement a comprehensive safety plan. Emergency service providers will be stationed on-site to ensure public safety and to provide immediate response to any medical emergencies that may arise.

Special Effects and Aerial Maneuvers

As part of the air show, planes will perform various flying, diving, and maneuvering displays. Additionally, there will be planned explosions, pyrotechnic displays, and fireworks, all managed exclusively by the event organizers. Attendees and nearby residents are reminded that these activities are planned and should not cause alarm. Please refrain from dialing 911 unless it’s an actual emergency. 

Traffic Control

In preparation for and during the event State Street Road will be closed from West Saile Drive north to Batavia Elba Townline Road, and West Saile Drive will be closed from the Milton Cat building to the storage barns on the east side of the Airport. Motorists are urged to follow signage and flaggers, exercise caution, and remain alert to changing conditions. Pedestrians should adhere to marked paths and signage.

Satellite Parking at GCC

This year, a satellite parking option will be available at Genesee Community College (GCC). Buses will shuttle attendees between GCC and the airport, with drop-off at the main entrance and pick-up at the airport’s main terminal for return to GCC.

For more information about the show, parking details and other additional details, please visit: https://wingsoverbatavia.com/.

Batavia Downs unveils 16 electric vehicle charging stations

By Press Release
batavia downs electric charging station
Submitted Photo.

Press release:

Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel, through National Grid’s Electric Vehicle Make-Ready Program, has installed 16 Level 2 EV charging plugs to be used by those who visit one of Western New York’s top entertainment destinations. 

For the project, National Grid’s program provided $96,000 in EV incentives that covered around 78% of infrastructure-related construction costs, including the cost of labor and materials. Altogether, 16 Level 2 plugs were installed in two parking lots: Twelve are in the main lot, with the remaining four in the VIP/valet parking lot. Beyond the newly installed plugs, this project investment also provided Batavia Downs with funding to increase the existing electricity infrastructure to accommodate future EV charging as driver demand increases and additional plugs are needed.

Batavia Downs officials say that they are available for use by guests at the facility who may be visiting for any number of events and promotions being held onsite.

“Initial meetings were held last year with National Grid to discuss the potential for such a project, “said Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel President & CEO, Henry Wojtaszek. “Construction, which began on the EV chargers earlier this year, was completed over the summer. Buffalo-based electric vehicle charging station contractor PPR Energy Solutions installed the plugs. With more demand for these types of amenities, we plan on doing promotions and hotel deals that may be attractive for guests who own electric vehicles.” 

“With more drivers choosing electric, this project provides both guests and residents an increasingly sought-after amenity as National Grid collaborates with customers like Batavia Downs to pioneer New York’s clean transportation future,” said Whitney Skeans, National Grid’s EV Make-Ready Program Manager, who added that the charging stations can be found by EV drivers on popular plug-finding apps. “We’re always grateful for opportunities to work with companies like Batavia Downs, leading the charge in their commitments to economic viability, convenience and value for the EV drivers of today and for years to come.” 

The project also received funding from NYSERDA’s Charge Ready 2.0 program, which provides Level 2 charging station hardware rebates that further reduce the overall cost of projects for workplaces, public facilities, and multi-unit dwellings across New York State. 

More about National Grid’s Make-Ready Program

National Grid’s Upstate New York EV Make-Ready Program helps business customers fund up to 100% of project costs related to installing electricity infrastructure. Recent projects such as the installation of EV charging stations at Aquarium of Niagara and in the Village of Ellicottville demonstrate the collaborative nature of how National Grid works with customers toward shared, clean energy goals. The company plans to invest more than $150 million in Make-Ready incentives to install 9,000 plugs across Upstate New York – including 3,000 across Western New York – by the end of 2025. 

These projects also align with New York State’s climate action initiatives that call for reduced greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality and zero-emission vehicle regulations by 2035. New York State provided additional support to meet these goals in November when it announced additional infrastructure funding to accelerate electric vehicle adoption and stimulate $4 billion in EV charging infrastructure investments.

Tompkins Insurance Agencies tapped as one of the nation’s top independent agencies by Insurance Journal

By Press Release

Press Release:

Industry publication Insurance Journal has recognized Tompkins Insurance Agencies as one of the Top 100 largest insurance brokers in the United States. In the magazine’s August issue, Tompkins Insurance ranks at 75th largest in the nation, up from 79th place last year. Additionally, the firm’s parent company, Tompkins Financial Corporation, earned a spot as one of the Top 20 bank-held insurance brokerages by fee income, securing the 14th spot in this prestigious ranking.

“We have ranked on Insurance Journal’s top agencies list for many years, and it’s a distinction we don’t take for granted, “ said David S. Boyce, president and CEO of Tompkins Insurance. “The recognition signals another notable year among the largest insurance brokers in the country, and also underscores our commitment to maintaining the strong relationships with the clients we serve throughout Western New York, Central New York and Southeastern Pennsylvania.”

Insurance Journal’s 2023 rankings categorize brokers by size in revenue for the calendar year. This list allows clients to assess their broker partners, offers individual brokers a way to measure their performance against competitors and market leaders, and reveals trends for customers’ risk management and employee benefits challenges and service needs.

In addition to providing commercial insurance programs for businesses throughout New York and Pennsylvania, the agency also serves more than 36,000 personal insurance and employee benefits clients. Tompkins Insurance Agencies operates 12 offices in Western New York, five offices in Central New York and five offices in Southeast Pennsylvania. 

It is an independent insurance agency offering personal and business insurance and employee benefits services through more than 50 different companies. A part of Tompkins Financial Corporation, (trading as TMP on the NYSE - MKT), the agency is affiliated with Tompkins Community Bank and Tompkins Financial Advisors, both operating in Western New York, Central New York, Southeast Pennsylvania and New York’s Hudson Valley.

For more information, head to www.tompkinsins.com or follow Tompkins Insurance Agencies on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

Genesee County Jail now open and operational

By Press Release
new jail feb 2024
FIle photo of the new jail during construction.
Photo by Howard Owens

Press Release:

Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. is pleased to announce that the new Genesee County Jail is now open, occupied and operational. 

This morning, Wednesday, August 28, 2024, all 74 inmates currently committed to the Genesee County Jail at 14 West Main Street in the City of Batavia were transferred to the newly constructed, state of the art, Genesee County Jail located at 3839 West Main Street Road in the Town of Batavia. 

The transition to the new jail facility went seamlessly thanks to the dedication and detailed preparation by the Genesee County Corrections' personnel in cooperation with numerous Genesee County Officials.

Assisting with the move this morning were deputies from the Genesee County Sheriff's Office and officers from the
Batavia Police Department, the Livingston County Sheriff's Office, Genesee County Facilities Management, Genesee County Information Technology Department, Genesee County Department of Public Works, and the New York State Commission of Corrections.

Sheriff Sheron said, "This project has been a monumental endeavor, I wish to extend our sincere appreciation to everyone that contributed to bringing it to function."

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