news

Press Release:

YWCA of Genesee County is excited to announce a $50,000 grant from the Garman Family Foundation, administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, to add Crisis Counseling Services for Genesee County.

For more than a century, the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo has enhanced and encouraged long-term philanthropy in the Western New York community. A 501 (c)(3) organization, the Community Foundation’s mission is: Connecting people, ideas and resources to improve lives in Western New York. 

Established in 1919, the Community Foundation has made the most of the generosity of individuals, families, foundations and organizations who entrust charitable assets to the Community Foundation’s care. Learn more at cfgb.org.

"Case Managers at the YWCA already offer intensive support, safe temporary shelter, 24 crisis hotline services, court advocacy, information and referral, support groups and safety and transitional planning for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, human trafficking, sexual assault, and stalking. This new, full-time crisis counselor position will provide more therapeutic services, complementing the services, complimenting the work we are already doing and adding a much needed piece of continued healing and support for the people we assist," says Jamie Rada, Executive Director. 

For more information on the YWCA of Genesee County Crisis Counselor Position please visit www.ywcagenesee.org or contact the YWCA at 585-343-5808 or info@ywcagenesee.org.

Press Release:

Premier Genesee Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation will be flushing fire hydrants on Wednesday, June 26 from approximately 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Please be advised that flushing may cause some discoloration of water. This does not represent a health hazard. However, citizens are cautioned to determine if the water is clear before washing clothes (or any other processing) as staining may occur. If you experience discolored water run the cold water in all your faucets for approximately 5-10 minutes.

Premier Genesee regrets any temporary inconvenience you may experience however, the flushing program is necessary to maintain a good water supply for our community.  We thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Press Release:

As part of The Salvation Army of Batavia’s Christmas in July celebration, several events are planned throughout the summer to highlight and benefit The Salvation Army’s programs and services in Genesee County.

These events include a Red Kettle Christmas in July fundraiser, Salvation Army night at a Batavia Muckdogs game on July 20, a chicken barbeque in August, back-to-school supply and hygiene product donation drives, and more.

“We have seen a steady increase in families and individuals coming to The Salvation Army for assistance as the cost of living continues to have the biggest impact on those already struggling,” said Captain Bradley Moore of The Salvation Army of Batavia. “With so many new community members coming to us for help, our dollars are being stretched thin.”

Throughout the year, The Salvation Army of Batavia helps more than 10,314 families and individuals through its food pantry, emergency assistance program, Christmas and toy assistance programs, and youth and senior programs.

“Donations from these summer events stay in our community and will help us to continue our vital programs and services throughout the year to help those most in need in Batavia and Genesee County,” Captain Moore added.

Donations to The Salvation Army of Batavia can be made at any of these upcoming events. Online donations can be made by texting TSABatavia to 31333 or by visiting https://give.salvationarmy.org/Batavia2024. Cash or checks can be dropped off, or mailed to, The Salvation Army of Batavia, 529 East Main Street, Batavia.

Press Release:

Brett J. Frank has served the City of Batavia as the Director of Public Works since March 28, 2022, and previously as the Director of the Batavia Development Corporation.  His last day in the office will be July 26. 

“It is with mixed feelings that I announce my resignation from the position of Director of Public Works.  I will be relocating to Portland, Maine with my family in early August.  While I’m excited about this move. I am sad to be leaving the City of Batavia,” said Brett Frank, Director of Public Works.

“As Director of Public Works, he oversaw the Bureau of Water and Wastewater, the Bureau of Maintenance, the Inspection Bureau, and Engineering Bureau of the City.  He was instrumental in many of the City’s street, waterline, facility and plant projects that have been completed in the last two years.  He will be missed by the City, and I know everyone joins me in wishing him and his family well,” said Rachael J. Tabelski, City Manager for the City of Batavia.  

“I’ve worked at the City of Batavia for the past three plus years, initially as the Director of the Batavia Development Corporation and then moving into my current role.  The City of Batavia has been the best place I’ve ever worked with, and it’s the best group of people I’ve ever worked with.  I’d like to take the time to thank all of the employees that I’ve had the pleasure of working with,” said Frank. 

The City of Batavia will be looking to hire the next Director of Public Works. I encourage anyone interested in learning more about the job to contact the City’s Human Resources Department.

The Department of Public Works is responsible for many critical aspects of City government and resident services. 

1. Provides adequate, safe and environmentally sound water supply and distribution, wastewater collection and wastewater treatment processes.

2. Provides for a safe vehicular and pedestrian transportation on streets and sidewalks.

3. Provides safe parks and facilities for all citizens and visitors to the community.

4. Provides basic building maintenance services to all City owned facilities.

5. Provides for the administration of the New York State Building Code, Zoning Laws, Building Permits, Planning, Zoning, Historic Preservation and Property Maintenance Ordinances.

Press release:

The Genesee County Sheriff's Office is investigating the larceny of a Silver Cannondale Quick Disc 3 Bicycle. See attached stock photo. The larceny occurred in the Town of Batavia last night on June 23, 2024. The bicycle was cut from a bike rack attached to the victim's vehicle. If anyone locates this bicycle or has any information requiring the larceny please contact the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, Deputy Jenna Ferrando, at 585-343-5000.

Press Release:

Energetic and personable, with a warm sense of humor and jovial laugh, Melissa Vinyard is only half joking when she tells people that she was “predisposed to be an alcoholic with a last name like Vinyard.”

That’s because the 57-year-old Batavia resident was born to an alcoholic mother, who succumbed to the disease in November 2017.

“My mother was my best friend and worst enemy at the same time,” Vinyard said. “She told me that if I was going to drink, I needed to drink like a lady – whatever that means.”

What it turned out to mean was that Vinyard would become addicted to alcohol and drugs, needing substances to make it through each day. Fortunately for her, however, she broke free from the cycle of addiction and has been in recovery for six years.

Moreover, through her connection with UConnectCare (formerly Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse), where she spent time in treatment, Vinyard’s path of sobriety has resulted in her being hired last June as the nonprofit agency’s coordinator of The Recovery Station on Clinton Street Road.

“Who would have ‘thunk’ it after all that I went through?” she said.

Vinyard says that her introduction to alcohol started in her mother’s womb.

“I’d like to say I had my first drink in utero because my mother was an alcoholic who drank through her pregnancy,” she said. “I can remember my first few sips of alcohol. My mother loved to entertain, and at our Christmas parties, she would pretend to hire me to be the waitress. And I would be cleaning up and seeing the half-drank wine glasses.

“I’d say to myself, ‘What’s this? Such a really pretty color. I took a couple of sips, and automatically, it was like, this is luscious. I put it in my mouth, and it started to tingle. I swallowed it, and it burned into me. What have I found? I didn’t know what I had actually found, but what I knew was that I felt better.”

She said she didn’t want to lose that “feeling” and embarked on a life of heavy drinking and drug use.

Vinyard grew up in Geneseo, graduating from Geneseo High before helping her mother, Kerry Holmes, run their beauty salon in the village. She became, in her words, “a townie,” partying with the college students and then a “highly-functioning alcoholic” – consuming large volumes of beers and wine coolers – with cocaine use mixed in.

The oldest of five children, she said she was married twice but both ended in divorce.

“I was a good mom; I attended all of my sons’ sporting events, but I wasn’t a good wife,” she admitted.

Vinyard attended Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in Geneseo back in 2010, but she went back to drinking – even after she was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer and had to undergo a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgery. Six years later, she suffered a stroke at work, prompting her doctor to tell her that she was going to die if she kept drinking.

“I said, ‘Tell me what I need to do?’ she recalled. “I was too afraid to live and too scared to die.”

With her family’s tough love approach, Vinyard checked herself into the Margaret A. Stutzman Addiction Treatment Center in Buffalo. Just ten days into her rehabilitation, her mother died of complications from her drinking at the age of 71.

Mourning the loss of her mother and being evicted from her home by her then fiancé, Vinyard entered intensive outpatient treatment at GCASA, followed by 2 ½ years at the agency’s sober living for women residence.

“I went through all the steps and was in group (therapy) every day,” she said. “GCASA saw something in me that I couldn’t see in myself.”

Vinyard enrolled at Genesee Community College, taking drug and alcohol counseling courses, and stayed in recovery despite suffering major injuries when struck by a car while crossing the street on East Main in Batavia four years ago.

In 2020, Vinyard became a peer advocate with the agency, working at The Recovery Station and the detox center. She has also assisted in the clinic and the mobile unit.

“I’m living my recovery out loud because GCASA saved my life,” she said, adding that she since has found spiritual support at a church in Batavia and is leading a spirituality group at The Recovery Station.

Vinyard shared that the “very first person that I met at church, who greeted me, was a woman named Judy.”

She said Judy had responded to a call for prayer from Vinyard’s brother and sister. The two women became pen pals and now they keep in touch regularly through her church.

“I have found a spiritual connection to Jesus Christ and was baptized,” Vinyard said. “When I came up from the water, it felt like the inside of me had taken a shower. It was the first time that my inside matched my outside.”

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.

It took more than 60 years of evolving duties and departmental responsibilities plus the current trend of in-your-face social media posturing to bring about a change of title for Genesee County’s highway department, and it’s one whose time has come, Highway Superintendent Tim Hens says.

The shift from Highway to Public Works Department and revising Hens’ title to commissioner will go to a public hearing on July 24. 

“I’ve always worried more about doing the job and not worrying about the title, but with the recent need to coordinate water emergency notifications as well managing a resurrected air show, I’ve noticed increased questions, especially in social media, as to why the highway superintendent is involved with water and airports,” Hens said. “It’s always been part of my job going back 25 years, but I think in order to quell some of the confusion, it’s prudent to rename the Highway Department to the Public Works Department.”

After a quick glance at other nearby counties -- Erie, Orleans and Niagara -- this isn't an uncommon title for the department or person leading the way. Albany County has a General Services department and Monroe County lists several divisions with no specific Public Works, such as Pure Waters and Parks departments. Tioga County does have a Public Works Department, and also lists Emergency Management Services (see below), so it seems as though there's no one established language that counties use for their various departments.

When Hens began in 1988, he was highway superintendent managing primarily the highways, bridges and fleet.

“Over the years, mostly in the early 2000s, duties were added: water, parks, airport, environmental health review and then we added facilities, I think, in 2016,” he said. 

He oversees seven divisions, 57 full-time and 11 seasonal or part-time employees within the department, including highways and bridges; fleet management; engineering; facility management; parks and forestry; Genesee County Airport; countywide water; and environmental health, which means engineering reviews for water, septic, campgrounds and pools.

Water has become the monster to tackle — financially, physically and environmentally — as the county has enacted a three-phase water project, with Phase 3 estimated to cost $150 million, to shore up its infrastructure while also having to put out a yearly plea for residents to be thoughtful about water use due to potential shortages.

As for what he sees as levels of importance, “water seems to be number one for sure,” Hens said.

“So much depends on it — public health, economic development, etc.,” he said. “We can’t do much without water, so the emphasis has overwhelmingly been to advance expansions of the water supply system to match growth of demand and support new industries, including agriculture."

Officials still want folks to be mindful of their water usage, however, “we decided to hold off on any preemptive restrictions this year,” Hens said, “as we have made some improvements that are making a difference, and we don’t want to seem like the boy who cries wolf.”

He doesn’t believe the spray parks in Batavia and Le Roy will have to shut down as they did temporarily last year because those instances were due to mechanical failures at the water plant and a well simultaneously and during a very hot stretch of summer weather, he said. It was unusual, but it is an option when necessary. “If we have supply issues,” he said.

Hens was integrally involved in the resurrection of Wings Over Batavia Air Show, which was during Labor Day weekend in 2023, from early planning committees, special training, oversight, and implementation to wrap-up. 

Though the air show is a privately funded event run mostly by volunteers, Hens serves to ensure “the county airport is safe, so the overall coordination and daily operations needed from the county to support the air show to make this happen will continue to be under my umbrella,” he said. 

As for priorities, the water project remains a top one with Phase 2 water supply improvements in progress.

“We have many portions of this supply increase complete but are still working on upgrading four pump stations in the Monroe County Water Authority system that will bring more water to Genesee County. We continue to be delayed by supplier issues and long lead times as well as scheduling in the numerous shutdowns needed on an active pump station,” he said. “It’s a very complex project and has taken way longer than I could have imagined. The other priority is the design and funding of the Phase 3 water supply improvements, which are also critically needed. The biggest effort lately has been tracking down grant funding opportunities so that Genesee County can move the project ahead with outside help rather than asking county residents to pay more water surcharge to support the development.”

That doesn’t end his list of county projects, as there’s a long list that includes many bridge replacements across the county.

“There are currently 13 bridges under various levels of construction and design,” he said. “We’ve been very successful in obtaining both federal and state aid to move these ahead.”

Other to-do items are transitioning from the old to the new county jail and rehabilitating and/or renovating the Engine House (home of the county’s public defender’s office), Holland Land Office Museum, which is bursting at the seams and plans are to expand toward the westward parking lot, and Genesee County Animal Shelter in order to meet updated state requirements.

With all of that on his plate, Hens said he would “love the water project to be complete before I go,” but his retirement plans are two years out, and it’s not quite realistic to think it would all be finished “based on the size, scope and complexity.”

The public hearing has been set for 5:30 p.m. July 24 at the Legislative Chambers, 7 Main St., Batavia during a county Legislature meeting. Anyone interested may speak about the topics of dissolving the highway department and creating the Public Works Department, and also to create the position of county commissioner of Public Works to correlate with that change. There is no salary change or budget impact. 

The highway department was established in 1962 to maintain county roads and bridges and control snow and ice. It has evolved to provide additional services, such as maintenance of facilities, parks and forests, airports, engineering, signage, fleet maintenance and development of water infrastructure.

The county intends to consolidate the various Public Works functions and duties of the County of Genesee performed by the Highway Department under a single county department and administration to more efficiently and economically serve the needs of the residents of Genesee County, the resolution states.

While they’re at it, county legislators will also consider revising the name of the Office of Emergency Management Services to more simply and broadly Office of Emergency Management to better clarify the scope of coverage and functions provided by the office. 

In 1984, the Fire Mutual Aid Department and the Civil Defense and Disaster Preparedness established the Office of Emergency Management Services, but “over time the agency was misconstrued as being limited to the oversight and coordination of emergency medical services, and in fact the agency provides coordination of a wide variety of emergency response services to enhance the capabilities of area first responders, including but not limited to fire, medical, mutual aid, mobilization of resources, planning, mitigation, response, recovery, hazardous materials response, confined space rescue, high angle rescue, search and rescue and fire investigation.”

Coordinator of Emergency Management Services Tim Yaeger proposed the change to more accurately depict the array of services provided to all first responders and county citizens. The hearing on July 24 will include this name change, as well.

Le Roy's Class of 2024, 94 graduates strong, received words of encouragement and advice from the commencement speakers: life is hard at times, so embrace happiness, look to the future with a positive attitude, and face life with courage.

"I encourage each of you to make choices that will lead you to the experiences that will help you live your life to the absolute fullest," said Principal David Russell in his opening remarks. "Living your life to the fullest will look differently for everyone here. But I hope that each of you can find whatever experiences bring you the most joy and you embrace them."

Board of Education President Jacalyn Whiting advised the graduates that their future hinges on "attitude."   Attitude, she said will determine whether they succeed or fail. It will determine their priorities, their actions, and their values.

"Life is not always easy and presents many challenges," Whiting said. "We can't always control the people, events or circumstances that surround us, but we can control the way we choose to react to them. As you continue your journey, focus on what you can control. Maintain a positive attitude. Encourage and support those around you. Be an optimistic thinker. Lean on your friends and family when you need support, develop and maintain a hopeful outlook for your future."

The class selected Michael Battaglia as the faculty speaker.

Battaglia first noted how fortunate the students are to be part of a community like Le Roy. On Friday night, top-achieving students received more than $125,000 in scholarships to assist with college or trade school.

"That awesome amount of money I just mentioned is because you had the fortunate opportunity to grow up in a community and the school community that cares about you and your success," Battaglia said. "No matter where you go or what you're doing in life, remember that the people in Le Roy are always here for you."

He encouraged the students to seek happiness and embrace happiness when they have it in their grasp.

"While it sounds simple, I hope you find happiness," Battaglia said. "And when you do, whether in your career, your relationships, where you choose to live, hold on to it when you find it. We all fail and make mistakes. Don't be afraid to make a mistake or experience failure. We've all been there. Don't fear them. But embrace the opportunities in your life that make you happy."

Now that Le Roy is on the "laud system," or as Russell referred to it in his remarks, the "Latin system," this is the first graduating class in Le Roy without a valedictorian and salutatorian speakers. Any student could apply for the student speaker roles, with the entire class voting on who the two speakers would be.

The speakers were Aubree Feeley and Owen Williams.

Feeley addressed much of her comments to the graduates who aren't being recognized as top of the class, congratulating them on their contributions to the school by being part of the community, showing up every day and participating.

Getting through high school is hard for everybody, she said. It's a lot of work. A lot of stress.  It's classes and sports and musicals and other activities. 

"All of these moments have brought us to the next step in our lives," Feeley said. "We have already achieved so much. So it's all the graduates, whether you are in the spotlight or not, know that your hard work is recognized that our dedication and perseverance are an inspiration to us all."

Williams said graduation marks the culmination of 13 years in school, making friends, progressing through the grades, the struggles, wins and losses that come along with that progression. Life is going to be very different from this point forward. There won't always be that sense of progression. There will be struggles and disappointments.  He told his classmates to be true to themselves.

"Be true to your passions," Williams said. "Be true to your friends. Be true to your family, and live your life how you want it to be lived. Do what makes you feel fulfilled. Do what makes you happy, not what makes someone else happy. Follow your heart, and you will find purpose."

After all of the diplomas were distributed, Superintendent Merritt Holly delivered some closing remarks. He provided inspirational quotes from fictional characters and expounded on what the lessons the students could learn.

"Courage begins by trusting yourself," Holly said, quoting Yoda.

"To be successful in the military, the workforce or college, you must believe in yourself more than you ever have," Holly said. "When faced with the challenge, and moments that lie ahead for you, believe in and trust in yourself. You will have the courage and strength to face life's challenges."

Press Release:

The ARTiculations Ability Exhibition - a forum for artists with disabilities in Genesee, Wyoming, and Orleans counties to display their work publicly - will re-open with a new artist at Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR) in their office at 319 West Main Street in the Crickler Executive Business Center in Batavia on Thursday July 1.  Titled “Art Unspoken”, it features the work of Megan Benzee.

She states, “I am an artist experiencing a genetic disorder. I enjoy sharing artwork with the world. I want to make everyone’s life full of color and meaning. I hope to make pieces that hold a place in someone’s heart.”

A reception with light refreshments will be held for the artist at the ILGR office from 4 - 6 p.m. on Monday July 8.  A product of a partnership between ILGR and the University Heights Arts Association (UHAA), the Exhibit will be on display through September 30.

Background

Megan’s adoptive parents first encountered her at the age of 10 weeks in Guatemala; she came home to Wyoming County with them at 5 months and is now an 18-year-old U.S. citizen.  Her family had to take her to Philadelphia to see specialists about her rare, incurable, genetic disease, but Horseback Therapy, using a retired therapy horse, kept in a neighbor’s stable, has permitted her to function without her electric wheelchair on occasion. When homebound, she expresses herself through her art, and, although self-taught, she credits her amazing teacher Diane Campbell for encouraging her since Sixth Grade and recently won the District-wide Iroquois Superintendent’s Award.

An admirer of the late Mexican surrealist painter Frida Kahlo and similar artists, she loves to do pet portraits for people, particularly the eyes, often drawing with her bird Claude on her shoulder and her cat Esther on her lap.

An invitation

Other artists with disabilities residing in the Genesee, Orleans & Wyoming County areas are encouraged to submit their work to this juried competition, as there will be additional ARTiculations planned quarterly exhibits in the future.

For questions on the event, please call Catherine DeMare at (585) 815-8501, ext. 400.

Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR) is a member of the Western New York Independent Living, Inc. family of agencies that offers an expanding array of services to aid individuals with disabilities to take control of their own lives.

Fans of hard ciders found the perfect way to relax and hang out with friends on a hot Saturday afternoon in Downtown Batavia.  They were able to visit 18 stops on the BID's Second Annual Cider Walk and sample a variety of ciders from throughout the region.

Once again in partnership with Sunnking Sustainable Solutions, Assemblyman Steve Hawley hosted his annual electronics recycling drive on East Main Street Road in Batavia on Saturday.

Photos by Howard Owens.

For 26 years, Kathy Panepento, founder and key figure in Crossroads House's operations, has provided a "steadfast and unwavering commitment" to the community, Assemblyman Steve Hawley noted at Panepento's retirement party on Friday.

"For nearly three decades, Kathy Panepento rendered faithful, conscientious and valuable services to Crossroads House, truly earning the admiration, esteem and affection of her colleagues and the community," Hawley said, reading from an Assembly Citation.

In those 26 years, Panepento has been director of residential care, end-of-life doula services, and served on the board of directors.

"Thank you all for being here and sharing this event and to celebrate my retirement," Panepento said. "But it wasn't just me. It was the board of directors, the volunteers, the nurses, and the staff. It takes a village to keep Crossroads house operational. And I know, even when I leave, it's in good hands."

Panepento was a registered nurse and end-of-life doula in the late 1990s when she realized that Batavia didn't have a residential end-of-life care facility.  While recognizing most people with a terminal condition would prefer to pass peacefully at home, that isn't an option for many people, so she thought the community should provide a facility with 24-hour care.

She kicked off the organization of what eventually became Crossroads House, which opened at 11 Liberty Street. Batavia First Presbyterian Church paid $1 a month in rent for a former parsonage. 

The first resident entered Crossroads House on Jan. 7, 1998.

"She has left her mark as a caring member of the community," Hawley said.

City Council President Eugene Jankowski and County Legislator Gary Maha also presented Panepento with proclamations.

Jankowski praised Panepento as a role model for the community and mentor to the employees and volunteers at Crossroads House.

Crossroads House wouldn't have been possible, Panepento noted, without the support of her family, especially her husband Frank, who recently retired from the Batavia City School District.

For retirement, Panepento is planning to get her commercial driver's license so she can get behind the wheel of a Class B recreational vehicle and take off with Frank to see the country. She also plans to spend time with her grandchildren and research family ancestry. 

Smash Mouth brought more than a decade's worth of hits and some poppin' new tunes to Batavia Downs on Friday night.

The set ranged from monster hits like Walking on the Sun, I'm a Believer, and All Star to their latest single, Ride On, which kept the crowd dancing and smiling throughout the performance.

Previously: Smash Mouth rides the next wave of 'Classic Rock' into Batavia Downs on June 21

A master researcher, author and presenter of local history, Larry Barnes became the face of all things Batavia as the city historian for 16 years until his retirement in December 2023. Soft-spoken but adamant about capturing various moments and people of history, including his latest penned venture into the lives of Black Batavians, Barnes, 83, passed away on June 21 at The Gateway Home in Attica, where he had received end-of-life care. 

A GCC psychology professor-turned-historian in later life, Barnes also authored several books and scripted a play about the Brisbane Mansion, which is still a hot topic as city management works to put it on the selling block after the police station moves out into new digs downtown. 

Barnes was present throughout the years of discussions about what to do with the police department in an antiquated building that once housed the Brisbane family, and he was pleased to see a final solution. He advocated for repurposing the West Main Street site instead of demolishing the property and its valuable city history. 

Barnes was very active in the community, having served with several history-related groups, including the Landmark Society of Genesee County, Batavia Historic Preservation Committee, Genesee County Historians Association, Government Appointed Historians of Western New York and the Association of Public Historians of New York State.

It was when Barnes was a member of the Holland Land Office Museum board and city historian that Ryan Duffy met and made a connection with him. Duffy is the museum's executive director and the recently appointed city historian to take the reins in January.

“Larry was a mentor to me,” Duffy said Saturday. “When I came on to the museum, he was always there to help me out with anything with local history. He was always a resource for me and for the museum in general. 

"He was the person who wanted me to become city historian after him. So he always admired what I did, and always, you know, pushed me to do more, but I always looked up to him in his research, and I always used it as a resource too, so there's a lot of things that he covered that I think if he hadn't covered it, we might have forgotten about it," Duffy said. "So his impact will be felt forever.”

Barnes was also a go-to source for area organizations, groups and even journalists who picked his brain about certain city topics, gleaning background for news articles. His gentle and willing manner, combined with a dry sense of humor, made interviews easy and informative.

For Duffy, he wants to make sure “I keep the legacy going,” he said.

For Barnes, the historian role was one of many passions that included photography, extemporaneous public speaking (he won a national competition in school), doing methodical research, and putting his highly creative skills to both fun and practical purposes by crafting small whimsical designs up to building two beloved homes.

He took his volunteer role seriously, even to the point of braving the wintry elements during the city's bicentennial celebration by standing on an outdoor stage to address the snow-covered crowd. 

That volunteer gig shifted to a paid position, but only after Barnes' 16 years were nearly up -- when City Council voted to pay the role a $5,000 per year stipend. 

His faithful service and untold hours were a testament to his belief in the importance of documenting history at any -- or no -- cost, which is a stepping off point for Duffy from here forward.

His body is to be cremated, and his earthly remains will be privately interred in the Historic Batavia Cemetery, another site that Barnes knew well.

A Celebration of Life service will be at 2 p.m. July 28 at the Main Street 56 Theater in Batavia. It will be a time of reflection, remembrance, celebration and sharing.

Go HERE for the full obituary.   

Although Cornerstone Church has been a source of controversy for at least one prior event on its expansive 20-acre grounds, there's no denying its ability to host popular speakers, including this weekend's outspoken Christian leader Mario Murillo, expected to bring in thousands of attendees for each of four nights beginning Sunday.

Cornerstone Church "will transform into a powerhouse of hope and healing," organizers say, "be there as miracles unfold, lives are touched, and hearts find renewal."

The tent has been set up at 8020 Bank Street Road, Batavia for Murillo's visits, which are to include a message of hope and healing each night from Sunday through Wednesday beginning at 6 p.m., Pastor Paul Doyle said.

"There is no cost. Come as you are. General seating. Plenty of parking. We're expecting big crowds," Doyle said Friday. "People are coming from all over New York State and outside states as well, so come early if you can."

Doyle said that when Murillo came to the Batavia church in August 2021, he drew 4,000 people each night. His claim to fame is his humble birth as a Christian with the courage to give church a try.

“Someone dared me to go to church because I had been outspoken against the Christian faith,” Murillo said. “They said if I was going to bash it, I should at least consider it. So I went, and while I was there, there was a visiting team from New York City who were former heroin addicts and gang members. 
They gave their stories and it really affected me. I realized I was called to be a Christian minister.”

According to his bio, Murillo rose from poverty in the Mission District of San Francisco.  After being revolutionized by Christ, he felt a call to the University of California at Berkeley. Sharing his faith on this riot-torn campus seemed beyond impossible.  His attempts to communicate were repeatedly rejected, which led him to pray a prayer that would define the rest of his life.

“If you called me to this campus, you must help me.” The help arrived in stages.  It began with words— a way of saying things that were different than audiences were accustomed to — that seemed to tumble out of his mouth.  A small group of students quickly grew to a regular crowd of hundreds. 

Then, something else happened: students began to report healings. They would testify that in the name of Jesus, their sickness had vanished. Murillo quickly understood that any report of healing should be verified by doctors.  He also steadfastly maintained that the Gospel must remain his central theme.  Miracles must be regarded as byproducts of preaching the Word of God, he said. At this point,  thousands began to attend his rallies.

His international ministry was launched after a four-day conference in San Jose, Calif., which was extended for six months, with a total attendance of nearly 250,000 people.

Since then, Mario’s voice has been heard by millions around the world, bringing a message that zeroes in on society's hurts. His material states that he presents Christ "clearly, intelligently and openly declares the power of Jesus to totally transform a life." He offers an invitation for anyone interested to "come and see. Christ has the power to end addiction, racism, violence and disease."

“I have a profound belief in the power of God in the modern era because I have seen it at work,” Murillo said. “But the power of God has been counterfeited, commercialized and misappropriated. And the problem is that once that happens, then we’re maligned.”

Cornerstone hosted the ReAwaken America Tour in 2022, much to some protesters' dismay,  and brought General Mike Flynn to the campus earlier this year. 

For more information about Maurillo's visit, go HERE and click on EVENTS.

Gone are the days of simple newsletters and notes sent home in kids’ backpacks as the means of communication for a school district’s community, as communication has become an entity all its own.

Batavia City Schools’ Board of Education approved a contract renewal with Emily Benedict of ESB Media this week for such services that include public and media relations to disseminate news, updates, highlights and positive stories about the city school district.

The agreement for 15 hours per week at a $5,000 a month retainer, or $60,000 per year, begins July 1 and runs through June 30, 2025. 

District expectations include spending more quality time on “value-added projects,” focusing on strategy, “empowering colleagues to take the lead using brand/PR guidelines,” and adopting a more proactive and less reactive strategy.

Board member Alice Benedict said that one thing that's happened "for years and years and years" is that, despite getting information out into the public about upcoming budget and board election votes, that doesn't often evoke a great turnout, and this year, seemed especially dismal.

She asked if Benedict had any suggestions to help boost voter enthusiasm for the polls.

Contrary to what's been the trend for many organizations to get the word out about events, Benedict said that "we cannot just depend on social media," adding that information needs to go out via local press, postcards, newsletters and "other options we could explore."

Board member Barbara Bowman pointed to Batavia's large senior population and suggested that the school district could work with the county's Office for the Aging to assist older folks in getting to their polling sites. 

"It would be nice if we could make a concerted effort," she said.  

More specific goals related to the new contract, according to Benedict, are to:

• Continue the great work we’ve executed over the last four years with public relations, media relations, social media, executive communications, and strategy.
• Develop a comprehensive feature editorial strategy to unearth and highlight more positive stories about the district, its programs, students, and staff.
• Successfully transition web presence to a new platform and create a seamless content system that allows for clarity, transparency, and ease of use for all stakeholders.
• Find new and innovative ways to tell the BCSD story.
• Develop a community outreach strategy that better informs Batavia about the great work happening across BCSD.
• Continue working on a comprehensive crisis communication plan and messaging and develop additional communication opportunities to foster a stronger BCSD community for families, staff, etc.
• Improve the Annual Report with more educational statistics and brand stories.
• Professional photography of schools/faculty/students to enhance the website, social media, and materials.
• More video-focused interviews/news packages/social posts.
• Serve as webmaster for bataviacsd.org.

In other financial-related news, the board also approved a contract for blacktop sealing of 250,000 square feet of the district’s parking lots and driveways during the summer. 

This includes painting lines, crack filling and a $5,000 allowance for milling and repair. The RFP was publicly advertised and sent to various companies. Two proposals were returned from the following companies in the amounts indicated:

Get Sealed submitted a bid of $72,800, and Baughman Magic Seal of Amherst submitted a lower bid of $46,950.

Chad Bliss, Director of Facilities III and Business Administrator Andrew Lang recommended that the board approve Baughman Magic Seal, which received final approval.

Appropriations for this work were budgeted for in the 2024-25 general fund budget, Lang said.

Press Release:

The Batavia City School District is proud to announce that Ms. Volpe’s 6th grade Reading Class has won First Place in the prestigious statewide video contest hosted by the Rural Schools Association of New York State. 

This impressive project involved 21 students and took about two weeks to complete, showcasing their creativity, technical skills, and dedication.

"We are immensely proud of Ms. Volpe and her 6th grade Reading Class for their incredible achievement. This accomplishment is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and collaboration of our students. They have truly captured the spirit of Batavia Middle School, showcasing the best of what our school and community have to offer. Congratulations to each student involved and to Ms. Volpe for her outstanding guidance and support throughout this project," said Batavia Middle School Principal Nathan Korzelius.

The theme for this year's contest was "The Miracles of Rural Education." The project began with a class discussion on the concept of miracles and brainstorming examples within their school, other schools, and the Batavia community. They then divided into groups, each responsible for planning a script, deciding on filming locations, and creating a filming schedule.

Throughout the project, students analyzed previous years' winning videos to gather insights on what made them successful. Using this research, they meticulously planned, filmed, and edited their own video. 

The collaborative effort included selecting transitions, incorporating images, and adding music, resulting in a polished and compelling video that highlights the unique aspects of Batavia Middle School.

David A. Little, Esq., Executive Director of the Rural Schools Association of New York State, praised the students' accomplishment, stating, “The contest is intended not only to support student creativity and technical skill, but to encourage pride in their school and their community. For Batavia to have won First Place in a statewide competition that includes large districts and BOCES with studio quality equipment is a testament to the quality of their instruction and the dedication of their students.”

The following students participated in the winning project:

• Alexsandra Bernard
• Lilyana Berner
• Christopher Bombard
• Nate Clarke
• Gavin D'Amico
• Harper Davis
• Kristian Demers
• Callum Fancher
• Shae Finn
• Malachi Harris
• Arlo Hoisington
• Sienna Kibler
• Jace Maid
• Jack McCarthy
• Mason McEwen
• Noah Morris
• Elliyanna Murphy Smith
• Cattaleya Rojo-Hallock
• Gabriella Smith
• Cole Woodward
• Taryn Wright

More than 540,000 people get hip replacements in the United States every year, and I became what many of them affectionately call themselves -- "a hippy" -- on May 7. 

There was a plan in place with the hope to avoid missing as little work as possible:  work and strength training right up to the day of surgery and then follow a recovery plan with a physical therapist at home until graduating to more rigorous therapy at a facility.

Well, recovery crept along slowly and more painfully than expected, but as week three crested, things seemed to be falling into place: I felt ready to get back into the swing of things, just about ready to write stories and feel like a productive member of The Batavian team again.

On the night of May 26, I felt a strange sensation as my body crumbled beneath me, and the most excruciating pain filled the next several hours. X-rays showed that I had a hip dislocation. My newly placed apparatus had come out of the socket.

For anyone unfamiliar with the surgery, the damaged thigh bone and cartilage are removed, and the prosthetic is placed into a shaft created by drilling into the femur, with a cup and ball acting as the hip joint. It takes several weeks to months for the bone and device to grow solidly as one, just as it takes for a broken bone to heal. To me it sort of feels like a tree trunk inside the thigh. 

Now the hip was out of place, and after two attempts in the ER to manually put it back in, they wheeled me into the OR for a third try. The good news was that it was put back into place, but the process set my body back to ground zero in recovery from the additional wear and tear, pain and tenderness and unsettling trauma of the ordeal. Caution is the word of the day after one dislocation because there's no guarantee that it won't happen again.

While I'm eager to get back to city and county coverage, I know I need to take things slow. It's clear now that it may take longer than I anticipated. We at The Batavian sincerely appreciate your patronage and support, and there will be much more coming on the horizon.

This has been quite a life lesson in dealing with chronic pain -- it began more than a year ago after I fell twice with my beautiful big rescue dog, who just had a bit too much energy and strength (and love for chasing squirrels) for me to handle, and then the third time when he was spooked by a truck on the street and plowed into me, knocking me to the ground. Subsequent tests found other damage including osteoarthritis.  

For anyone facing a health challenge, continue to be your own advocate and push for answers if you’re not getting any; strive for the very best care from medical professionals; and take the time to value your own well-being. It is hard to put life’s many other details aside, but then again, it’s nearly impossible to keep going without good health. 

If you are considering a replacement procedure in the near or distant future, do your homework! Ask questions, research the procedure and requirements involved, and be prepared for what’s to come. While some people seem to describe it as a walk in the park, others like me have been unexpectedly sidelined on a park bench, at least temporarily.

I appreciate each and every reader, and look forward to providing you with the latest news as soon as possible.

Press release:

At the Annual  Alexander  Senior Awards night, Brooke Kochmanski of Alexander High School was awarded as the first recipient of the  Sergeant Thomas Sanfratello Memorial Scholarship.  

Genesee County seniors can apply and must be residents of Genesee County. The applicant must be a graduating high school senior who will be attending an accredited college or university in the fall. The scholarship award must be payable to an accredited college or university, and the applicant must be pursuing a career in the criminal justice field. A copy of the applicant’s most current transcript (high school or college, as appropriate) must be submitted. 

The NYSDA and GCSEA hope to see this scholarship grow in funding in the future years.

The New York State Deputies Association, Inc., along with the Genesee County Sheriff's Employee Association, has created this scholarship to keep Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello's legacy alive in local law enforcement so our youth can continue to protect and serve our community.