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Press Release:

St. Paul Lutheran Elementary School students collected food for the Batavia community on Valentine’s Day. The ‘Love Your Neighbor Food Drive’ took its theme from Mark 12:31, where Jesus commands us to love our neighbors as ourselves. 
 

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) continued his annual Valentines for Veterans program this Valentine's Day, connecting local students with veteran residents at The New York State Veterans Home at Batavia. Hawley collected handmade valentines from students at Jackson Primary School and personally delivered them to the veterans.

"This event is a great opportunity every year to show my appreciation for our veterans and all of the sacrifices they have made to keep us free,” said Hawley. “As a veteran myself, I know the hard work and dedication these brave men and women have given over the years, and I hope events like this can serve as a way to give back.”

Hawley's day began at Jackson Primary School, where he visited Mrs. Vaccarella’s Kindergarten class, discussing veterans and the six branches of the military before thanking the students for their heartfelt cards. He then visited a joint classroom for Mrs. Wolff and Mrs. Conroy, where students also created valentines and performed a special Valentine's Day song for the veterans. Finally, Hawley delivered the valentines to the residents of the NYS Veterans Home at Batavia, personally thanking veterans for their service.

“This program connects students with our veterans, and in turn, our veterans receive messages of gratitude, such as ‘Thank you for your service,’” Hawley added. “It’s a truly rewarding experience for everyone involved.”

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) introduced the Trump’s Birthday and Flag Day Holiday Establishment Act to officially designate June 14 as a federal holiday to commemorate President Donald J. Trump’s Birthday and Flag Day.

Born on June 14, 1946, President Donald J. Trump’s birthday coincided with Flag Day, which is observed annually and recognizes the anniversary of the adoption of the Stars and Stripes as the official US flag in 1777. This legislation would permanently codify a new federal holiday called “Trump’s Birthday and Flag Day” on June 14 to honor this historic day.

“No modern president has been more pivotal for our country than Donald J. Trump. As both our 45th and 47th President, he is the most consequential President in modern American history, leading our country at a time of great international and domestic turmoil. From brokering the historic Abraham Accords to championing the largest tax relief package in American history, his impact on the nation is undeniable. Just as George Washington’s Birthday is codified as a federal holiday, this bill will add Trump’s Birthday to this list, recognizing him as the founder of America’s Golden Age. Additionally, as our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, we should create a new federal holiday honoring the American Flag and all that it represents. By designating Trump’s Birthday and Flag Day as a federal holiday, we can ensure President Trump’s contributions to American greatness and the importance of the American Flag are forever enshrined into law,” said Congresswoman Tenney.

Press Release:

The Genesee Orleans Regional Arts Council (GO ART!) is thrilled to announce the opening of three new art exhibitions on Thursday, February 20. The community is warmly invited to join us at the opening reception from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. to experience the diverse artistic expressions of Lorie Longhany and Bryan Wright and an engaging multi-artist show featuring artists of African heritage in honor of Black History Month.

Dive into the creativity of two remarkable local artists: multimedia artist Bryan Wright and painter Lorie Longhany.

Bryan Wright, drawing inspiration from his deep connection with the ocean and waters, presents another coastal-themed exhibition. His works, crafted with skills honed in graphic design and basic metal fabricating, encapsulate the mystery and intrigue of coastal elements found through his explorations.

Lorie Longhany, a self-taught artist with a versatile palette of pen, acrylic, and watercolor, showcases a collection of artworks that resonates with the themes of solitude, contentment, and nostalgia. Lori's pieces range from medium and small paintings to bookmarks, but her very small pieces are affectionately referred to as her "happy paintings."

A Showcase of African Heritage through Arts and Crafts is the third exhibition that adds a vibrant layer to the evening, with a special focus on Jamaican arts and crafts alongside select pieces from Africa. This multi-artist show not only highlights the rich cultural heritage and artistic vibrancy of African and Jamaican artists but also contributes to the celebration of Black History Month at GO ART!

This is an Invitation to Experience Artistic Diversity at GO ART! We are pleased to bring these three distinct exhibitions under one roof, offering the public an opportunity to embark on this unique artistic engagement. From the reflective and personal works of Lorie Longhany and the coastal-themed creations by Bryan Wright to the rich tapestry of African heritage presented in the multi-artist exhibition, there's an abundance of beauty and creativity to consume. 

We look forward to welcoming art lovers and the community to the opening reception of these three exhibitions.

Come share an evening of art, inspiration, and cultural exploration with us at GO ART! 

This event is free, but the experience will be invaluable! For more information, please contact GO ART! at 585-343-9313.

Press Release:

Genesee Community College's (GCC's) Fashion Business Program is proud to unveil the theme for its highly anticipated 44th Annual Fashion Show: "Masterpiece Unfolding." The show will take place on Saturday, May 3, at 5 p.m. in the Richard C. Call Arena, promising an unforgettable evening where fashion and fine art converge.

Throughout history, art has been a driving force of inspiration, shaping culture, design, and personal expression. "Masterpiece Unfolding" will bring these artistic influences to life on the runway, showcasing designs that pay homage to artistic movements throughout history.

"Fashion, like art, tells a story," said Laura Taylor, Associate Professor of Fashion Business and Merchandising. "This year, our students will translate the essence of legendary artistic styles into wearable masterpieces, celebrating the creative evolution that continues to inspire designers today."

Attendees can expect an immersive experience where fashion becomes a canvas, and each design serves as a tribute to the artists of the past and present. Through fabric, texture, and design, "Masterpiece Unfolding" will transform the runway into a gallery of living art.

Join us on Saturday, May 3 at 5 p.m. at the Richard C. Call Arena for a night where fashion meets fine art in a breathtaking celebration of creativity.

For ticket information and sponsorship opportunities, please email fashionshow@genesee.edu or visit gccfashionshow.com.

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

Press Release:

“New York Power Authority's (NYPA's) decision to pause its proposed hydropower rate hike is a win for New Yorkers, businesses, and communities that depend on affordable, clean energy. This near-tripling of rates was unacceptable, and I, along with Assemblyman Andrew Molitor and many of my Republican colleagues, fought hard to stop this devastating increase before it could take effect.

The overwhelming pushback from legislators, businesses, municipal utility providers, and residents made it clear that this proposal was unacceptable. Once Governor Hochul saw the extent of opposition, she put the brakes on it—something she should have done from the start. Keeping energy affordable is essential to retaining jobs, supporting families, and maintaining a competitive economy.

This fight isn’t over. We must remain vigilant to ensure NYPA doesn’t revive this misguided proposal down the road and that New Yorkers continue to have access to reliable, low-cost energy.”

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) will be hosting his annual Valentines for Veterans Program Friday morning, February 14.

Hawley will collect valentines from students at Jackson Primary School and will deliver them to veteran residents living at The New York State Veterans Home at Batavia. Hawley is proud to be able to put this event on for another year and hopes it will raise awareness of veterans' issues in New York.

 “This event is a great opportunity every year to show my appreciation for our veterans and all of the sacrifices they have made to keep us free,” said Hawley. “As a veteran myself, I know the hard work and dedication these brave men and women have given over the years, and I hope events like this can serve as a way to give back.”

Press Release:

Six Flags Darien Lake, the Thrill Capital of New York, today said it plans to hire 1,500 seasonal associates for the 2025 season ahead of opening day on May 16. 

The park will start filling those roles during a week-long hiring blitz to be held February 15-22 as part of a large recruiting campaign by the park’s parent company, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, across all its parks in North America.

To learn more about the event and open positions, please visit the Six Flags Darien Lake job site. These positions include:

• Food & Beverage Associates
• Ride Operators
• Lifeguards
• Sales Associates for Merchandise
• Park Services Attendants
• Hotel and Campground Associates
• And more!

Hourly pay starts at $15.50 for those who are 16 years of age or older based on experience, prior service, and position. Darien Lake offers competitive wages and amazing perks for its associates, including discounts on park food and merchandise, reward and recognition programs, exclusive park events for associates, ride nights, a cafeteria with discount meals, and free admission to any Six Flags park.

Candidates may apply online or visit the park’s Employment Office during the following times to learn about the job opportunities and be interviewed same-day:

• Tuesday, Feb. 18 (12 to 7 p.m.)
• Wednesday, Feb. 19 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
• Thursday, Feb. 20 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
• Friday, Feb. 21 (12 to 7 p.m.)
• Saturday, Feb. 22 (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)

“Seasonal associates are the lifeblood of our business and play an instrumental role in consistently delivering amazing experiences to our park guests,” said Christopher Thorpe, park president. “We offer competitive wages and unbeatable perks that include opportunities for leadership development, paid internships, career advancement, and so much more. We look forward to welcoming new associates for what I’m sure will be a FUN and exciting 2025 season!”

The hiring blitz at Six Flag Darien Lake is part of a plan by parent company Six Flags Entertainment to hire more than 50,000 seasonal associates across its network of parks in 2025. The company anticipates filling the majority of those roles during hiring events to be held across all parks in North America from February 15-22.

Press Release:

The American Heart Association and Rochester Regional Health (RRH) to host free Hands-Only CPR demonstration on Wednesday, February 12.

The American Heart Association and Rochester Regional Health are teaming up to create a Nation of Lifesavers. Trainers will teach Hands-Only CPR to local religious leaders, who can then share this life-saving skill with the community. 

The event will take place at the Rochester Regional Health Healthy Living Campus, located at 211 East Main Street, Batavia. 

The demonstrations for local religious leaders will be held from 2 to 3 p.m., followed by Hands-Only CPR demonstrations open to the public from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

The American Heart Association is challenging everyone to join the Nation of Lifesavers and commit to learning CPR during American Heart Month in February. 

More than 350,0000 people experiencing cardiac arrests outside of a hospital, including 23,000 children. CPR is a critical skill that kids as young as 9 years old can learn.

CPR, especially if performed immediately, can double or triple a cardiac arrest ictim’s chance of survival – which is key since nearly 90% of people who suffer out-of-hospital cardiac arrests die. Nearly 70% of cardiac arrests happen at home, so it is likely that the person who needs CPR will be a family member or friend.

Knowing CPR is an essential skill anyone can perform, and it could mean the difference between life and death.

Press Release:

At our Republican endorsement meeting on Tuesday February 2 the following candidates were endorsed after a vote under the by-laws of our committee.

• Bill Fox Sr. a Conservative incumbent who asked for Republican endorsement for Town Board
• Dave Paddock a Republican incumbent for Town Board 
• Emily McNamara a Republican for Town Justice

Shelley Stein, the incumbent Republican legislator did not receive the votes to move forward with an endorsement.

We have a facebook page for news and updates https://www.facebook.com/groups/527076802990956.

All inquiries can be made to the Chairman at leroyrepublicans@gmail.com.

Press Release:

The Genesee County Conservative Party are proud to announce the following endorsements:

COUNTY LEGISLATURE

• District 3 - Gordon Dibble, (Pembroke/Darien)
• District 5 - Dr. George Vito (Le Roy) 
• District 7 - John Deleo (Batavia city wards 1 & 6)
• District 9 - Kathy Briggs (Batavia city ward 4 & 5)

BATAVIA CITY COUNCIL AT LARGE

• Richard Richmond
• Eugene Jankowski

TOWN OF BATAVIA TOWN SUPERVISOR

• Greg Post

TOWN OF BATAVIA TOWN CLERK

• Amy DiSalvo

TOWN OF BATAVIA TOWN BOARD

• Patti Michalak

TOWN OF BETHANY TOWN JUSTICE

• Jeffrey Wolak

TOWN OF LEROY TOWN BOARD

• William Fox
• David Paddock

TOWN OF LEROY TOWN JUSTICE

• Emily McNamara

TOWN OF BYRON TOWN SUPERVISOR

• Jeffery Thompson

TOWN OF BYRON TOWN CLERK

• Kristy Murphy

We wish everyone the very best of luck.

Anyone looking to join the Conservative Party Committee, please email Chairwoman, Julie Carasone at jcarasonw2001@gmail.com. 

Press Release:

Genesee County residents who wish to change their party enrollment to be eligible to vote in June 24, party primary must submit a completed application to the Genesee County Board of Elections by February 14.

For more information, visit the Genesee County Board of Elections website or call 585-815-7804.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) attended a press conference with his colleagues to promote a proposal that would authorize school districts to submit a waiver to the commissioner of education allowing them to officially opt out of certain zero-emission school bus requirements being implemented statewide. Across New York, there are more than 700 school districts facing full implementation of the zero-emission school bus mandate by July 1, 2027. Hawley believes this mandate is unrealistic for rural school districts and will result in higher costs for local schools.

“The Majority’s plan to mandate the purchase of electric vehicles for all new school bus purchases is not only unrealistic, it’s completely unattainable,” said Hawley. “Our schools are already substantially underfunded yet this administration seems hell-bent on punishing rural districts in order to promote their radical climate agenda. These out-of-touch policies will not work for Western New York. We must take action now to protect our schools.”

Press Release:

GENESEE AMATEUR HOCKEY ASSOCIATION (GAHA) invites children to the to the The David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena on Evans Street on Saturday, February 22nd for a Try Hockey For Free Event as part of “ USA Hockey Week Across America.” Which will be celebrated at 285 ice areas across the entire United States. 

Starting at 10:40 a.m. to Noon local youth, ages 4 to 9, are welcomed at the rink to experience getting on the ice, learning how to “skate”, get up after falling, basic skills with a hockey stick and shooting pucks into a hockey net (all by being guided by the head coach and on-ice helpers). The youngsters will have the experience of shooting on actual goalies.

“At our Fall USA Try Hockey for Free Event (November 2 nd ) we welcomed families to McCarthy Ice Rink from Batavia, Buffalo, Byron, Corfu, LeRoy, Nunda, East Bethany, Alexander, Byron, Brockport, Albion, Wyoming, Rochester, and Elba to try our great sport of ice hockey” said Sharon Gray, Coordinator of the “Try Hockey for Free” event. “Our goal is for these families to enjoy watching their kids learn new skills with big smiles on their faces and for the youngsters the on-ice experience.”

The head coach for this event will be Andres Manamon (this year’s Head Coach for our Timbit Beginners Program (which presently consists of 72 youngsters) and on-ice helpers who make up this year’s Batavia-Notre Dame United high school team along with their coaches – Marc Staley and John Kirkwood. The youngsters will also be assisted on the ice by other coaches and players from the GAHA organization. 

The event is hosted by the Try Hockey for Free Coordinators – Sharon and Bob Gray and the GAHA Beginner Player Coordinator – Marcia Barnes on behalf of the Genesee Amateur Hockey Association who provided the ice and the McCarthy Rink Staff – Katie Murray (General Manager), Matt Gray (Rink Operating Manager) and their great staff. 

It is the team’s goal to provide the hockey experience to area youngsters free of charge and encourage them to participate in the GAHA Timbit Beginner Program which starts the first week of October. The Beginner Program consists of two sessions (October to December and January to March) with a total of 15 on-ice hours per session. 

USA Hockey’s Try Hockey program, with the support of the National Hockey League and NHL member clubs, among others, is designed to provide youth hockey associations with a national platform for introducing children to the sport, free of charge. Pure Hockey (sponsor of USA Hockey) will provide “free” USA Try Hockey jerseys to each child.

What to bring: We encourage those who have equipment to bring it. If you do not have any equipment, you will need to bring:

• A loose-fitting pair of sweatpants or snow pants
• A pair of gloves (they don’t need to be hockey gloves – mittens or winter gloves are fine)
• A helmet (hockey or bike) – we’ll have some “extras” available!
• A SMILE

What we provide: Rental Skates will be provided for “free”, courtesy of David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena. Hockey sticks will be given out for use but MUST BE RETURNED.

ON-ICE EXPERIENCE: We will have plenty of coaches on hand to give your child a great youth hockey experience. They will get an opportunity to learn the basic skills of youth hockey. Your child does not need to know how to skate – we’ll have them up on their feet by the end of the session.

Registration is OPEN. Please register at: TRY HOCKEY FOR FREE.COM (Zip Code 14020). Registration limited to 40 participants. For more information contact svgray@rochester.rr.com or 585-344-2248.

Submitted photos.

Press release:

Four $1,000 scholarships will be awarded through the annual UConnectCare Foundation Scholarship program in 2025.

The program, initiated several years ago, provides financial support to individuals pursuing their education at an institution of higher learning in the fields of human services or social services for the purpose of contributing to improving community health.

Scholarships will be given to one Genesee County high school student, one Orleans County high school student, one adult student pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree, and one technical/trade school student.

Applications are available on the UConnectCare website – www.uconnectcare.org – or can be obtained by contacting Diane Klos at Diane Klos at 585-815-1883 or dklos@unconnectcare.org. Completed applications must be received via email or postmarked by March 7.

The scholarships will be awarded at the agency’s annual membership meeting in May.

“We take great pleasure in being able to continue this important program,” said John Bennett, UConnectCare chief executive officer. “More than ever, substance use and alcohol use treatment and prevention agencies are seeking qualified, educated and dedicated employees.”

Students enrolled in a Genesee or Orleans County school can apply for the scholarship even if their primary residence is in another county.

Other pertinent scholarship information is as follows:

• Applicant must be accepted at an accredited college or university and enrolled in or matriculated in an eligible program/major.
• Eligible programs or majors include Social Work, Nursing, Health Science, Mental Health Counseling, Psychology, or Human Services.
• Current UConnectCare employees, board members and UConnectCare Foundation board members are NOT eligible.
• Relatives of UConnectCare employees, board members and UConnectCare Foundation board members ARE eligible.
• Applicant must provide academic history such as high school and/or college transcripts.
• Applicant must provide two letters of recommendation from someone who knows the applicant’s work/volunteer/academic history. Letters from relatives will not be accepted.
• Applicant must provide a resume or personal biography including work history, volunteer experiences, and extra-curricular activities.
• Applicant must provide an essay that addresses educational and employment objectives as they relate to the mission of UConnectCare. Financial need, volunteerism, employment history and civic involvement will be given careful consideration.
• The scholarship monies will be awarded upon completion of the fall semester. The award recipient must provide a copy of their transcript demonstrating at least a 2.0 GPA.
• Applicant may be invited for an interview before final awards are made.

Press Release:

The Batavia Society of Artist is hosting artist Karen Crittenden on Tuesday February 11 from 7 - 9 p.m. at Go-Art/Seymour Place, 201 E. Main St., Batavia.  Karen will be demonstrating and doing a hands on presentation. Non-members welcome for a $5 fee or become a member! New members are always welcome from all mediums and artistic levels, $30 Single, $50 Couple, and $10 for Students & Veterans. There will be light refreshments and the Tavern 2.o.1. is open for cash sales.

Come join us for an evening of fun!  Karen will be using gelly plates, paints and other items (some will be surprising) to create collage fodder. We will demonstrate the use of gelly plates and acrylic paints and offer suggestions as to the use of collage fodder. Then you will have the opportunity to try this out for yourself. You will be able to take away what you create. Please be mindful of your clothing and shoes as acrylic paints, once dry does not come out.

Karen's Bio:  

I have been doing art for my whole life. Different forms at different times, but art.  I like to work in several art forms, sometimes even mixing those forms to push myself and my understanding of what makes art, work for me.  Photograpy provides a single snapshot of a single moment in time, capturing something that is emotional both to me and to the viewer.  It isn't always the same kind of emotion, but the experience of some emotion is what I strive for.  Ink, paint and paper provide another means for expression that gives an experience to the viewer and the maker of art.  If the viewer does not like what they see, it is still an experience.  The best happens when both viewer and maker have the same experience.  That is my ultimate goal.

Submitted photos.