Governor Kathy Hochul announced that she has declared a State of Emergency in the counties of Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Allegany, Jefferson, Lewis, Oswego, Oneida and contiguous counties, that will allow the State to coordinate and share resources with local governments affected by the current Lake Effect snowstorm. This includes the State Department of Transportation, which will provide assistance to municipalities impacted by the State of Emergency in excess of existing shared service agreements.
“As lake effect snow falls across several areas of our state, I’m declaring a State of Emergency for these areas to ensure state resources are available to assist local communities as we work together to keep New Yorkers safe throughout the duration of the storm,” Governor Hochul said. “We also continue to deal with extreme cold which poses an extraordinary risk to anyone who is exposed to the elements or is unable to adequately heat their home, and I encourage all New Yorkers to monitor their local forecast and take precautions to keep themselves and their families safe.”
Today through Wednesday, significant Lake Effect snow will fall in areas east of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. In the Western New York Region, one to two feet of snow are expected off Lake Erie in South Buffalo and areas farther south, while Downtown Buffalo may see up to a foot. Two to three feet expected off Lake Ontario in the Watertown area.
Travel will become very difficult with very poor visibility and deep snow cover on roads off both lakes through Wednesday night. Snowfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour in the heaviest bands combined with wind gusts up to 30 mph will reduce visibility.
The lowest temperatures of the winter season so far are expected tonight through Wednesday. Dangerously cold “feels like” temperatures between 0 and negative 25 degrees are possible across most of the State today through Wednesday, with the most extreme temperatures expected in Western New York and the North Country.
For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service’s website. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY Alert — a free service providing critical emergency information to your cell phone or computer.
On Saturday, the Corfu Fire Department gathered for its Annual Awards Dinner and Installation of Officers, celebrating the dedication and service of its members.
The evening began with a remembrance as outgoing Fire Chief Greg Lang led a candle lighting ceremony to honor department members who have passed. The ceremony recognized Sharon Franklemont, Al Platten, and Mildred Murczek.
In his Chief's Report, Lang shared that the department responded to 170 calls over the past year, reflecting the hard work and commitment of all members.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Firefighter of the Year award, which was given to Tyler Lang. His heroic actions earlier in the year were highlighted, particularly his quick response in saving a young girl who was pinned under a car following an accident. In a touching moment, Lang then presented his father, Greg, with the Firefighter of the Year award as well, recognizing his leadership as fire chief over the past five years.
The event also included recognition of Mercy EMS employees for their support and collaboration with the fire department.
Chief Lang expressed his gratitude, saying, “We want to show our appreciation to Mercy EMS for everything they do to help our community.”
The evening concluded with a heartfelt speech from Brad Lang, who spoke about the strength of the department’s bond and the importance of community.
Reflecting on the values of family and service, Brad said, "This community doesn’t work without the people you’re surrounded by right now."
Other top awards included:
Service Awards
Paula Trapani
Matt Lenhard
Most Training Hours
Wesley Cliff
Most Calls
Greg Lang - 90
Bruce Fauth - 80 - top responder
James Hale - 79
Matt Lenhard - 79
Jacob Stiles - 77
Years of Service
Brian McMartin - 40
Greg Lang - 35
Dean Eck - 30
Jen Eck - 25
Jim Hale - 10
Kelly Hess - 10
Brandon Florian - 5
Photos by Kara Richenberg.
Tyler Lang presents his dad Greg with the Firefighter of the Year award.
Service Awards given to Paula Trapani, Matt Lenhard, and Megan Stiles
Most Training Hours Greg Lang and Wesley Cliff
Most Calls Greg Lang and Bruce Fauth
Years of Service Award Brian McMartin and Greg Lang
Mercy EMS Employees and Chief Greg Lang
Installation of Officers.
A group of friends from the fire department by one of the engines.
The Genesee County Youth Board is looking for nominations for its annual Youth Recognition Banquet. There are three awards presented at the Youth Recognition Banquet:
Youth Recognition Award - this award recognizes young people who have performed exceptional service to the community and/or have assumed extraordinary roles in their families. Typically, the best candidates for this award are high school students, but we also know there are 12-, 13-, and 14-year-olds who exemplify distinctive qualities of service.
Adult Volunteer - this award recognizes an adult who provides service as a volunteer to youth in Genesee County.
Adult Youth Worker - this award recognizes a youth service professional whose work surpasses normal expectations.
Recipients will be honored at the Youth Recognition Awards Banquet on Tuesday, April 22. Nominations are due by Friday, February 14.
For more information or to receive nomination forms, please call the Genesee County Youth Bureau at 585-344-3960 or Genesee.youthbureau@dfa.state.ny.us .
The forms are also on the Youth Bureau page of the Genesee County website, www.geneseeny.gov/Department-Content/Youth-Bureau.
Batavia Downs President and CEO Byron Brown announced today that Batavia Downs will hold several events across Valentine’s Weekend, February 14 – 16, including Valentine’s Day specials inside of Fortunes Restaurant, the Brew Fest on Saturday, and a special Sunday Brunch inside of the Genesee Room.
On February 14 and 15 Fortune’s Italian Steakhouse will feature a Dinner for Two special that includes $80 in Free Play and choice of several Prime Rib and Seafood combos. Drink Specials, A la carte entrees, and appetizers will also be available. Full menu can be found on the Batavia Downs website or Social Media pages. Reservations are highly recommended by calling 585-FORTUNE (367-8863).
Also on Saturday the 15, the 6th annual Batavia Brew Fest, presented by Genesee Brewery and Rohrbach Brewing Company, will run from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. For $30, attendees receive 2 and a half hours of beer sampling from many WNY breweries along with light snacks and $15 in Free Play. Hotel packages that include tickets are available as well. Tickets are available now at BataviaConcerts.com and the Lucky Treasures Gift Shop located in the lobby of the main entrance of Batavia Downs.
Finally, on February 16, Valentine’s Ballads and Brunch at Batavia Downs will be held inside of the Genesee Room with seatings at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Brunch will consist of a live omelet station, Breakfast Buffet and a complimentary Mimosa for those 21+. $5 Bloody Marys will also be available for purchase. Light Music will be provided by Matt and Mandy. Full Menu can be found on the Batavia Downs website or Social Media pages. Cost is $25 per person with each person receiving $15 in Free Play when a reservation is made. Walk-ins will receive $10 in Free Play. Please call (585) 344-6143 to reserve your spot.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) released the following statement on her appointment to the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (HPSCI).
Established in 1977, HPSCI is responsible for overseeing the U.S. Intelligence Community, which encompasses the intelligence and related activities of the U.S. Government, including the Military Intelligence Program.
"I am honored to have been named to serve on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence for the 119th Congress, and thank Speaker Johnson for this prestigious appointment. At this pivotal moment in our nation's history, I am committed to ensuring that our intelligence community has the resources and support necessary to strengthen our national security capabilities. Facilities such as Fort Drum, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, and Rome Lab in upstate New York are critical to our national security. I am dedicated to advocating on behalf of these premiere defense sites as a part of our critical national security asset base. I look forward to working with President Trump, Speaker Johnson, HPSCI Chairman Crawford, and my colleagues to strengthen our defense capabilities and uphold essential oversight of our nation's intelligence operations," said Congresswoman Tenney.
“In an increasingly dangerous world with hot wars around the globe, multi-faceted threats from China, and terrorists within our borders, the mission of our intelligence community is vitally important. Congress has a responsibility to conduct thorough oversight of these intelligence systems to ensure we are safeguarding the American people and our national interests while also strictly adhering to the Constitution," said Speaker of the House Mike Johnson.
Join the Genesee County Master Gardeners for their monthly Garden Talk programs starting February 6, at noon. Master Gardener Denise K. will be our host for “Right Plant, Right Place.” Did you know that plants have preferences for the types of sites where they prefer to grow? Denise will discuss how soil influences your garden plants, as well as what other basic environmental factors influence plant growth. By understanding your site, you will be able to pick the right plants to match your growing conditions.
March 6 – “Adaptive Garden Tools” with Master Gardener Brandie W. Adaptive garden tools can help make gardening easier and more comfortable for people with physical limitations. Gardening should and can be a therapeutic and enjoyable activity for people of all abilities. Whether you have limited mobility, strength, perception, or dexterity, there are tools and methods available to help you be a successful gardener. Adaptive gardening tools not only enhance accessibility, but also empower individuals to create and maintain beautiful and thriving gardens. Learn more about which adaptive tools may benefit you and help you overcome barriers and experience the joys of gardening again.
April 3 – “Diagnostic Tips for Gardeners” with Master Gardener Jan B. What’s wrong with my plant? The art of plant disease diagnosis is a bit like being your own garden CSI. We’ll help you hone your Sherlock Holmes skills so that you can use your powers of observation and reasoning to identify plant disease problems. Is it fungal, bacterial, viral or not a disease at all? We’ll also cover some basic management techniques.
Future Garden Talks and other Master Gardener events will be posted on the CCE Genesee County website http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/events.
Garden Talk programs start at Noon and can be 30 to 60 minutes long, depending on the topic. This free series is open to all, but registration is required. You can attend in person at the CCE office (420 East Main Street, Batavia) or via Zoom.
Many of our Garden Talk programs are recorded and posted to our CCE Genesee YouTube page at www.youtube.com/channel/UCaXK_W80PkoUBj-HBm8OFMA/videos .
To attend in person please contact Elizabeth at 585-343-3040 x101 or emk268@cornell.edu. To register for a Zoom link, visit the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County website at http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/events. A Zoom link will be sent to your email with your personal link to the event.
“CCE of Genesee County is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities.”
Among the highlights for the South Byron Volunteer Fire Department in 2024 was the purchase of 11 air packs with 22 cylinders using $91,000 in grant funds, according to Chief Brian Hickey.
"In turn, in good fortune, in our brotherhood, the well-maintained air packs (being replaced) were donated to New Hope Volunteer Fire Department in Kentucky," Hickey said.
The department installed officers and presented annual awards at its annual dinner at the South Byron Fire Hall on Saturday evening.
The department has 22 active members and responded to 62 calls in 2024, with no reported injuries or deaths.
The newly installed firematic officers for 2025:
Brian Hickey, chief
Scott Blossom, deputy chief
Vito Muoio, assistant chief
Chase Cone, captain
Al Secash, 1st lieutenant
Mathew Dougherty, 2nd lieutenant
Haley Rimmer, engineer
Reggie Macdonald, fire police captain
Theresa Hammer, fire police sergeant
Dan Rimmer, fire police corporal
Administrative officers for 2025:
Reggie Macdonald, president
Robert Wilson, vice president
Alfred Klycek, treasurer
Elizabeth Penkszyk, secretary
Theresa Hammer, membership chair
Roseanne Klycek, sunshine chair
Auxiliary Board for 2025
Theresa Hammer, president
Haley Rimmer, vice president
Roseanne Klycek, treasurer
Melody Stone, secretary
Theresa Hammer, party chair
Melody stone, sunshine chair
Captain Chase Cone was named Fireman of the Year. The award was presented by Alfred Klycek. Photo by Howard Owens.
Administrative officers Jan Macdonald and Reggie Macdonald, president, were named Members of the Year. Award presented by Alfred Klycek. Photo by Howard Owens.
Chief Brian Hickey presents the Most Calls Award to First Lieutenant Al Secash. Photo by Howard Owens.
Michael Dougherty received an award for most training hours. Photo by Howard Owens.
The auxiliary purchased lighted safety vests for the department. Photo by Howard Owens.
Photo by Howard Owens.
Department members and auxiliary members Photo by Howard Owens.
The first phase of a $16 million apartment complex on Alleghany Road in Pembroke is nearing completion, and reservations for one- and two-bedroom apartments are being accepted.
The anticipated move-in date for new tenants is April 1, said developer Michael Schmidt.
Schmidt owns a parcel at 8900 Alleghany Road that has been approved for four buildings. Each phase, each building, consists of eight one-bedroom units and 16 two-bedroom units for a total of 96 market-rate units at build-out, along with 168 parking spaces and garages.
"We're ready," Schmidt told The Batavian during a tour on Friday of the complex under construction. "We took our first reservation today; somebody who wanted this lower one down here, we just walked past. So we're gonna let people pick (what unit they want)."
The one-bedroom units are 680 square feet and rent for $1,295 a month. The two-bedroom units are 900 square feet and go for $1,595.
That doesn't include utilities but free wi-fi and basic television service (a QR code on each unit's router allows the tenant to purchase premium services).
When entering the one bedroom, you will be essentially walking into the kitchen, which contains a refrigerator and an island with a stove and dishwasher. The unit will also have a microwave oven.
The bathroom is 3/4 (shower only, no bathtub).
On entering the two-bedroom, you step into the dining area. Between the kitchen and dining area is a countertop that can seat three or four people. It will also contain a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and dishwasher. It will have a full bath.
Both units contain a stacked clothes washer and dryer.
There is central air in all units.
Tenants will have the option to rent a storage closet in the building or a garage.
The floors will be covered with vinyl tile, with carpet in the bedrooms, over a poured gypcrete. The gypcrete provides both fire protection and soundproofing. There are also 12-inch beams between the floors, Schmidt said, providing further soundproofing. The walls use resilient channels to baffle sounds between units.
"That's going to be really good on sound, super efficient," Schmidt said. "We've got 900 square feet in the two bedrooms and 680 square feet in the one bedroom, so that's a nice size. It's not overly big, but they're super high efficiency, so I think people will be really happy."
Tenants will be allowed to own a small dog or cat.
With cabinets and other fixtures arriving in the next few weeks, it won't be long before the units are finished, and Schmidt said he will furnish two units. For one thing, that will give him demo units for photos and virtual tours, but he also anticipates there will be future tenants who want furnished units, especially to support workers at Darien Lake and WNY STAMP.
Whether Schmidt constructs the other complexes on the parcel will depend on whether the demand he anticipates for apartments on the Route 77 corridor materializes.
The project, on an 8.2-acre lot, which had an initial cost estimate of $15 million, is supported by the Genesee County Economic Development Center with a sales tax exemption on building materials worth $739,200, a property tax abatement of $2 million, and a mortgage tax abatement of $130,000.
The town has been great to work with, Schmidt said. Stringent but fair.
"I haven't gotten a lot of love from them, and I mean that sincerely," Schmidt said. "I like Jim (James Wolbert, code enforcement officer) but he hasn't been like wink and nod. There's been no 'Hey, we want the project so we're gonna let you slide out of stuff.' He's busted our chops on every single nit."
It isn't that way in other jurisdictions, Schmidt said. For example, even though the garage complexes have no electric and no heat, the walls between fire units must be fire-rated.
"Nobody does that," Schmidt said. "All those units will be fire-rated. There's no electric, no heat, but Jim's in charge. If you want to have a building, the inspector always wins, so what he wants, he gets. He hasn't cut us any breaks but that's okay. You can't be upset with somebody for doing their job."
Developer Mike Schmidt standing in what will be the kitchen area of a one-bedroom apartment in the complex he's building in Pembroke. Photo by Howard Owens.
The interior of a two-bedroom apartment under construction in Pembroke, showing the dining area, kitchen, living room and doorway into a bedroom (taken from the entrance to the full-bath next to where the washer and dryer will be). Photo by Howard Owens.
Photo by Howard Owens
Exterior rendering of the complex.
Interior rendering of the dining, kitchen, and living room of a two-bedroom apartment.
GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare is building momentum for its third annual hands-on career exploration event for students to experience healthcare careers.
More than 600 students from Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties will take part in the event, held at Genesee Community College on March 17. Students will learn first-hand about exciting career opportunities in the healthcare sector by meeting representatives and professionals from a variety of healthcare organizations, careers, and training programs.
“The support of our regional sponsors play an integral role in the success of GLOW With Your Hands,” said Angela Grouse, Co-Chair, GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare. “We ask for your help in motivating the future leaders of our community to these impactful careers.”
“Since 2019, GLOW With Your Hands: Manufacturing and Healthcare have welcomed over 5,000 local students, educating them about the abundant local opportunities while providing businesses an interactive event to engage with those interested in pursuing a career in healthcare,” said Karyn Winters, Co-Chair, GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare. “By supporting this year’s event, our sponsors grow real opportunities for our students.”
Sponsorships for the March 17 event are available at the Platinum ($5,000), Gold ($2,500), Silver ($1,000), and Bronze ($500) levels.
For more information about GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare sponsorship, please visit https://www.glowwithyourhands.com/healthcare-sponsors-and-vendors.
Get in-person tax help and e-file for free at Richmond Memorial Library this tax season Richmond Memorial Library is pleased to partner with volunteers from the New York State Department of Tax and Finance to offer income-eligible citizens assistance with filing their taxes online this tax season.
Tax Department employees will walk you through your income tax returns, step-by-step, as you complete and e-file your tax return for free.
If you earned $84,000 or less in 2024, you qualify.
Safe and secure online tax software.
Use on-site computers, or your own laptop, tablet, or mobile device.
You only need basic computer skills and an active email account.
Sessions will be offered on Thursdays –February 6, February 13, February 20, February 27, March 6, March 13, March 20, March 27, April 3 and April 10. Appointment slots are 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Those interested must schedule an appointment. For more information or to make an appointment, contact the library at 585-343-9550 x3 or visit the reference desk.
Richmond Memorial Library is located at 19 Ross Street in the City of Batavia. Find the library online at batavialibrary.org.
File Photo of City Manager Rachael Tabelski Photo by Howard Owens
When she suggested that the city of Batavia could lower its tax rate by 50 cents earlier this week, City Manager Rachael Tabelski reserved other aspects of her proposed 2026 budget for more formal discussions, including the biggest expenses, utility increases of $300 a year for an average family, and being able to maintain a same level of services.
UPDATE 1/18/25: Tabelski said on Saturday that the 2024 estimated water and sewer total of $600 that she provided was incorrect and did not include meter and capital improvement fees. That number should have been $850, making this year’s increase about $50 for a family of four.
City Council has agreed to a budget workshop schedule that is to begin Jan. 27. However, Tabelski agreed to review the $22.4 million general fund budget Friday, the first time she had done so before council workshops began, she said.
What are some key takeaways? Two drivers of budget expenses are a $628,000 increase in health insurance costs and about $400,000 more in retirement fees, she said.
The unassigned fund balance is at a healthy 21% level, which is close enough to the ideal percentage of 25%, she said. As a result, Tabelski is suggesting moving $526,000 from that fund balance into the general fund revenue to help balance it out with expenses.
The property tax levy is expected to be $7.2 million from a total taxable assessed value that increased by $102 million from this last year, she said, and a flat sales tax to be at $7.8 million.
“We typically do not see an increase in value like this in the city of Batavia. Not only have residential property sales and comps and the hot seller's market contributed to this increase but so has the reassessment of commercial properties that have done work and added to their value. So we're seeing the economic development strategies starting to actually add value to the overall assessment,” she said. “And when we add new assessment, especially in our commercial buildings, we're spreading out the tax payments across the community and across the residential properties as well. So the point being, it's always great to add value, especially in commercial buildings to your city.”
In 2017, the city started tracking all of the projects being managed by the private sector, in addition to what was being tracked in the public sector, “and we've had over 152 million in completed projects, 30 million right now under construction, and another 70 million planned by 2028,” she said.
“So again, the investment in the private sector projects will equate to increased tax base over time,” she said.
Video lottery terminal revenue is not being used because there is no guarantee from year to year that the city will receive this aid and how much it will get, she said. The recent yearly amount has been $440,000.
Major expenses include $10.5 million for public safety, $5.1 million for public works, $4.9 million for health care, $2.9 million for retirement, $1.2 million for street and sidewalk repair and replacements; $540,000 of capital costs — vehicles, buildings, and parking lots/sport court resurfacing; and $1 million being put away in reserve to pay the first bond payment for a new city police facility when that time comes.
“The goal is to not let our debt payment affect the taxpayers,” she said.
The city’s debt service, paying off prior purchases, still includes construction of City Hall, a fire truck, water project, and now the $15.5 million police station will get added to the list.
The property tax rate may decrease by 50 cents per $1,000, which would mean a rate of $8.46 per $1,000 assessed value, or a savings of $50 a year on a home assessed at $100,000 if assessments are stable from last year.
Tabelski has proposed water and sewer rate increases. A 1% water increase would add 6 cents per 1,000 gallons, and a 3% sewer rate increase would tack on 9 cents per 1,000 gallons. A family of four can expect its total annual bill to be about $900, she said, including water, sewer, and the meters and capital improvement fee (which are not slated for an increase).
In an inflationary world, with rising labor, supplies, and materials costs, “the city will need to continue to prepare for economic unpredictability and continue to invest in infrastructure and safety for our citizens,” Tableksi said in her budget message.
In order to do that, priority must be placed on security, health, and safety of city employees and residents, she said.
Speaking of infrastructure More than $4 1/2 million has been invested into the water plant to “keep it going for the next, we’d say, 15 years,” she said.
“We’re about 85% done with the projects inside of that. We again partnered with the county with Phase Three moving forward of the water project, we still see the plant being able to continue to produce water with these investments for about the next 15 years. And then, if we need to continue to use the plant, we’ll have to look at more investments,” she said. The wastewater treatment plant, we're planning for multiple projects, including sludge removal, some bypass systems. Our wastewater plant is one of the most unique systems east of the Mississippi. There's no other plant like it in New York. It's a fully biological system, unlike all other wastewater plants in New York, which are chemical systems.”
The new ice rink chiller system will be installed once the season is over this spring, the Bank Street streetscape project will continue this summer, another main Cohocton and Walnut water project bid has just been awarded for a spring construction start, and the Austin Park playground has been delayed due to New York State parks legal easement language that had to be inserted into the documents since grant money is tied to that project, she said.
Street and sidewalk resurfacing and replacement is scheduled in this budget for Kingsbury, Watson, Morton, Ganson, South Spruce and Union Square, using $900,000 of consolidated highway improvement program (CHIPs) funds and two parking lot mill and repavings near City Centre.
There will be a tree removal and planting project to add 1,000 trees to the city’s urban forest over the next three years, mainly in the Fifth and Sixth wards, with a portion also in the Second Ward, she said.
The first budget session is set for 6 p.m. Jan. 27 at City Hall.
The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for Genesee County and portions of western and north-central New York. An arctic airmass is forecast to move into the region starting Sunday (January 19) and lasting through the middle of next week.
Key Weather Concerns:
Bitter Cold Temperatures: At times, temperatures may plunge to 10 to 20 degrees below zero in lower elevations and 20 to 30 degrees below zero in higher terrain.
Lake Effect Snow: Accumulating lake effect snow is likely east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario from Sunday night or Monday through midweek.
Community Safety Guidance:
Cold Weather Safety: Residents are urged to protect themselves and others during the extreme cold. The National Weather Service offers cold weather safety tips at www.weather.gov/safety/cold-outreach.
Vulnerable Populations: Check on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbors, including older adults, young children, and those with medical conditions.
Bring Pets Indoors: Keep pets inside during extreme cold weather if possible.
Warming Resources:
Public places and large local businesses may serve as temporary warming locations.
During business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding Monday, January 20, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day), contact the Genesee County Department of Social Services at (585) 344-2580 for assistance.
For after-hours assistance, call the Genesee County Sheriff's Office at (585) 343-5000.
Please prepare now to stay safe and warm during the incoming cold weather. Stay tuned to local news for the latest weather updates, and visit www.weather.gov/buf.
Tony Kutter with his book "Cheese in the Time of Glasnost and Perestroika" in his home in Pembroke in a 2015 file photo. Photo by Howard Owens.
Local business legend Tony Kutter passed away on Wednesday at his home in Pembroke, surrounded by his family.
He was 91.
Kutter and his brother inherited their father's business, Kutter's Cheese, in the 1950s, when they were in their twenties and turned it into a business with an international reputation.
In 1995, after the fall of the Soviet Union, Kutter traveled to Russia as part of a trade exchange program to help aspiring Russian entrepreneurs learn how to start cheesemaking businesses.
Kutter himself learned the business from his father, Leo, who learned the trade in Germany after fighting for the Kaiser in World War I and, on the advice of a boss, moved to America, settling in the then-thriving city of Buffalo but dreaming of starting his own cheese-making business.
By the time the Kutter sold the family business to Yancy's Fancy in 1998, Kutter's had worldwide retail reach.
A Byrne Dairy & Deli, including a freestanding fuel canopy and four fuel pumps, to be operated 24 hours a day, has been proposed to fill the property at 606-622 E. Main St. in Batavia.
Andrew (Ken) Mistler,property owner of 606-622 and 624 E. Main St., has agreed in writing to a variance since the project is within 500 feet of a public place of assembly, Whole Life Fitness at 624 E. Main St. The project and variance are to be considered during a city Planning and Development meeting next week.
Themeeting has been set for 6 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall.
Applicant Christian Brunelle of Sonbyrne Sales Inc. submitted renderings and the proposed project to city planners to remove existing structures, including the former Country Max store, and construct a 4,332-square-foot, one-story convenience store and gas station.
Genesee County has been notified that it will be awarded $8139 for Phase 41 federal Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) funds through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, as appropriated by Congress through FY2024.
Applications are due from qualified organizations by January 31.
The National Board consists of the U. S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), American Red Cross; Catholic Charities, USA; National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA; The Jewish Federations of North America, The Salvation Army; and, United Way Worldwide. More about the national program is available online at www.efsp.unitedway.org.
A Local Board is charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help supplement food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country. The Local Board will determine how the funds awarded to Genesee County are to be distributed among local qualifying agencies.
The Genesee County Emergency Food & Shelter Program (EFSP) Board is encouraging local agencies that meet requirements to apply for the funds. Under the terms of the grant from the National Board, local agencies chosen to receive funds must: 1) be private voluntary non-profits or units of government, 2) be eligible to receive Federal funds, 3) have an adequate accounting system, 4) practice non-discrimination, 5) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, and 6) if they are a private voluntary organization, have an active voluntary board of directors. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply.
The deadline for applications to be submitted online is January 31. Non-profit organizations or public agencies interested in applying for funding may contact local board chair Katrina Standish at 585-589-5605, ext. 103 or via email at KStandish@caoginc.org.
November 2024 File Photo of the first meeting for a prospective Genesee County Warming Center led by Oak Orchard Health and First Presbyterian Church. Photo by Joanne Beck
Interested folks filled the meeting room at First Presbyterian Church in mid-November 2024 to hear ideas and issues about the potential need for a warming center in Genesee County. Attendees were encouraged to sign up and indicate their interest in taking part as active participants in the mission led by Oak Orchard Health and church staff.
At that initial meeting, there was “a heartening display of community spirit to gather input on establishing a warming center,” the Rev. Roula Alkhouri of First Presbyterian says.
The meeting was to gauge interest, and about 50 people from several organizations and nonprofits attended, including Community Action of Orleans Genesee, Genesee County Mental Health, Department of Social Services and Sheriff’s Office, City of Batavia Police, Genesee ACE, St. James Episcopal Church, United Methodist Church, Community Services Board, and Crossroads House.
That first objective was a “resounding success,” Alkhouri said, as the gathering brought together concerned citizens and stakeholders. They, in turn, formed a dedicated steering committee that focused on five key areas to ensure a county warming center’s success, she said.
What is a warming center? This center is to be set up as an evening and overnight safe space for people in need of shelter from the cold on days when the temperature falls below 32-degrees. Organizers also want to provide an opportunity for this space to be a place of connection with helpful resources.
The steering committee established five subcommittees, each tasked with a specific focus:
Funding: This subcommittee is responsible for identifying community donors, securing grants, and exploring other funding sources. They will also handle budgeting for the project.
Space: This team is working on identifying an appropriate space for the center, ensuring all regulatory and compliance requirements are met, and setting up the space.
Staffing: This subcommittee is creating a comprehensive staffing plan, including recruiting, hiring, and onboarding staff.
Community Resources: This group is identifying community partners, resources, supplies, and establishing Code Blue protocols.
Marketing: This team is focused on raising community awareness, communication, and education about the Warming Center.
“We are excited to begin this effort with the invaluable experience and planning resources of Oak Orchard Health,” Alkhouri said to The Batavian. “However, we are still looking for more community partners to join this initiative. If you are interested in joining any of these teams, please email me directly at roulaalkhouri@fpcbatavia.org or call me at the church office at 585-343-0505.
“Together, we can make a significant impact and provide a warm, safe space for those in need during the cold months,” she said. “Your support and involvement are crucial to the success of this project.”
2020 File Photo when JC Penney closed at Batavia City Centre. Photo by Howard Owens
City officials seemed pleased with the results of Thursday’s auction for the abandoned JC Penney’s site at 40 Batavia City Centre.
Such a mortgage foreclosure auction was a first for Batavia Development Corp. Executive Director Tammy Hathaway, she said, noting that it was “pretty interesting.”
File Photo of Tammy Hathaway during an open house in 2024 that involved renderings of the JC Penney's site and possible ideas for the property. Photo by Joanne Beck
“It went rather quickly. I took the public notice, and I did an email blast to all of the developers that we work with, but also the developers that we invite on our tours and to participate in the knowledge of what’s going on economically throughout Batavia,” she said at the second-floor waiting area of Genesee County Courts Facility. “There’s probably five or six individuals here today that have actually, I’ve personally walked through the building because it was listed with a real estate agent.”
Although the lobby was full of people — some there for court matters and others for the auction — only two active bidders stepped out from the group. Batavia business owner Matt Gray opened the action with a $2,000 bid, and the bank, represented by Ted Kwiatowski of Smart Serve, countered with $3,000. Gray then offered $25,000, and was upped by the bank to $26,000.
Gray and the bank went from $100,000 to $101,000, countered by new bidder Bill Baskin with $102,000. Gray then bid $125,000, countered by Baskin for $150,000. Gray offered $175,000, and after going one, two, three times, the auction was closed, with Gray getting the property — assessed at $400,000 — for a final bid of $175,000.
Hathaway talked excitedly about what her dream scenario would be for the site while Gray, Kwiatowski and legal representative Michael Ranzenhofer went to take care of paperwork.
Her vision is some type of live musical and entertainment venue with housing and apartments on the third and fourth floors, she said. As for who has purchased the property, she believes it is now in good hands.
“I mean, Matty is successful in his endeavors; he’s proven that. So I could not even find a complaint if I wanted to,” she said. “I took a phone call this morning from a developer that works in Syracuse that is very familiar with the area and had one who was looking at purchasing the Harvester campus, and he called this morning, and he’s like, I can’t be there at the auction but please, the second you know who purchases it, let us know. Because he’s like, I have a group of individuals, from developers to a whole variety of folks who are interested in having the conversation with whoever does purchase it.
“So creating that network, that’s really what it’s about,” she said. “So here’s a plan, how do we put the plan in action?”
Gray said that he bought the property on behalf of longtime business partner Matthew Boyd and himself. At first blush, he said nothing has been discussed, though “there’s a lot of possibilities.”
“I think you guys already know what I like. I like a vibrant downtown. I like city living. I love residential above our commercial,” he said. “As far as that building goes, it's been a vacant hole in our downtown, and it needs to have something there. So it was just a way of moving the ball forward.”
He will be working with Hathaway and is excited about the acquisition, he said.
The property has been vacant since Penney’s closed in the fall of 2020 and was purchased by California developer Yong Guang Ye in February 2021 for $500,000. Ye defaulted on payments, owing more than $179,000, and the property was put up for mortgage foreclosure by the out-of-state lending bank.
Plans are already underway for the 20th Annual Celebrate Agriculture Dinner which will take place Saturday, March 15, at 6 p.m. at the Alexander Fire Hall. This annual event is a celebration of Genesee County’s #1 Industry, Agriculture! The highlight of the night is a delicious meal using all locally sourced foods & products from Genesee County farms & agri-businesses. The dinner is open to the public.
Tickets are on sale now at the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, 8276 Park Road, Batavia. Tickets are $30 each, or a table of 10 can be purchased for $275. Sponsorships are also available which help support agriculture educational events in Genesee County.
Only 400 tickets will be sold. Tickets must be purchased by February 21. For more information or to download the registrations flyer visit the Chamber’s Website www.geneseeny.com.
The Celebrate Ag Dinner is coordinated by the following partners: Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County, Genesee County Soil & Water Conservation District and Genesee County Farm Bureau.
Sponsors of the 2024 celebration included: Allied Financial Partners, Arctic Refrigeration, Baskin Livestock, Inc., BVT – Brad Vokes Trucking, Carolina Eastern Crocker, Chapin, CPL, CY Farms/Batavia Turf, David Czapranski Trucking, Farm Credit East. ACA, Farm Family Insurance Company, Fieldstone Private Wealth, Freed Maxick CPA, Genesee County Farm Bureau, Growmark FS, LLC-Caledonia, L&M Specialty Fabrications, LLC, Lamb Farms, LandPro Equipment, L-Brooke Farms, LLC, Monroe Tractor & Implement Co., Inc., M&T Bank, My-T Acres, National Grid, Perry Veterinary Clinic, Stein Farms, LLC, Torrey Farms, Western New York Energy, LLC, William Kent, Inc. and Windy Acres Farm.
Farms and businesses that donated locally grown food for the 2024 dinner included: Dorman Farms, Farm Fresh First, Inc/Nortera Foods, Fenton’s Produce, SJ Starowitz Farms, Torrey Farms, Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc., Daves Ice Cream, Yancey’s Fancy.
For ticket information or questions contact the Kelly B. at The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, 585-343-7440 or kbermingham@geneseeny.com.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) announced the launch of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. The Congressional Art Competition is open to high school students who reside in New York’s 24th Congressional District.
Since 1982, the Congressional Art Competition has been held each spring to celebrate the talents of young artists across the country. Rep. Tenney welcomes students from the 24th Congressional District to take part in this tradition. Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of experts from NY-24, and the winning artwork will be displayed in the United States Capitol for one year.
In 2024, Tenney’s office received over 30 submissions from high schoolers across New York's 24th Congressional District.
Mixed Media: use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolor
Computer-generated art
Photographs
All submissions must be delivered to one of Tenney's district offices beginning April 14 and ending April 18. All necessary paperwork must be attached to the students’ artwork.
Please set up a time to drop off artwork at one of the following locations:
Lockport District Office - 169 Niagara Street, Lockport, Phone 716-514-5130
Canandaigua District Office - 2375 Rochester Road, Suite 250, Canandaigua, Phone 585-869-2060
Oswego District Office - 46 E Bridge Street, Suite 102, Oswego, Phone - 315-236-7088
