HomeCare & Hospice Foundation is calling on local businesses, schools, and organizations to join in the mission of supporting compassionate care by becoming pre-sale coordinating sites for its 32nd Annual Spring Bouquet Sale. This cherished fundraiser helps terminally ill patients and their families in Allegany, Cattaraugus, Genesee, and Wyoming counties.
By serving as a pre-sale site, organizations can help make a meaningful impact while giving their employees an opportunity to brighten their homes with a stunning 18-stem bouquet for just 25ドル. Each bouquet sold contributes directly to providing vital hospice care services and bringing comfort to those in need.
"Becoming a pre-sale coordinator is a simple yet impactful way to support our Hospice Bouquet Sale," said Melissa Sullivan, Chief Executive Officer at HomeCare & Hospice. "This program not only raises critical funds for patient care but also spreads joy throughout the communities we serve."
Pre-sale coordinators will receive all necessary materials, including order forms and promotional materials, to make participation seamless. Organizations can coordinate orders internally, making it easy for employees to support this meaningful cause.
Orders should be submitted no later than February 7, with bouquet pick up/delivery the week of March 1. If your organization is interested in becoming a pre-sale coordinating site, please contact HomeCare & Hospice at (716) 372-2106 or visit https://2026bouquet.givesmart.com.
Help us bring beauty, joy, and care to those who need it most. Together, we can make a difference!
The HomeCare & Hospice Foundation, established in June 2004, is dedicated to ensuring the ongoing viability of HomeCare & Hospice through philanthropic efforts. By raising, investing, and distributing funds, the Foundation supports compassionate care services that make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.
The Genesee County Democratic Committee is actively seeking candidates for the 2026 elections.
Offices that are up for election in 2026 include:
U.S. Congress District NY 24, New York State Senate District 57, New York State Assembly District 139, and Village Offices in Alexander, Bergen, Corfu, Elba, LeRoy, and Oakfield.
Recent elections have clearly shown that ordinary people with everyday ties in their communities make authentic candidates who can win elections. Your own life experience in volunteering, mentoring, working, raising families and being a good neighbor qualifies you – or someone you know – to be a leader who can make a difference in your local area.
"The Committee is looking for forward-thinking individuals who are comfortable in their own skin. We’re not looking for political résumés," Michael Plitt, GCDC Chair explained. "What matters is who the candidate is as a real person, and their ability to talk with other people. If you care about making life better for your family and neighbors, the GCDC will support your campaign with practical help from start to finish."
Now is the time to step up for your community. Contact the GCDC at info@geneseenydemocrats.org.
The Genesee County Democratic Committee is committed to working for democratic principles, values, and policies that affect the lives of every resident of Genesee County.
For more information about the GCDC, visit our website at https://www.geneseenydemocrats.org/ and follow us on social media.
Elba defeated Notre Dame 52-45 Tuesday night in the second game of the opening round of the 36th annual Rotary Club Girls Basketball Tournament at Genesee Community College.
Brea Smith led the Lancers with 16 points and 11 rebounds. Lydia Ross added 15 points and four rebounds.
Ava Buczek contributed nine points, five assists and five steals, while Brooklyn Jachimowicz had eight points and five rebounds. Brynn Stackhouse finished with four points, four rebounds and four steals.
Sofia Falleti led Notre Dame with 17 points, and Shirley Thompson added 15 points.
"Great team win for us tonight against a very good basketball team," Elba Coach Charlie Pangrazio said. "They learned a lot about themselves tonight. Stick together. Win together."
Elba will play Batavia for the championship on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. at GCC. Notre Dame will play Pavilion in the consolation game at 6 p.m.
Batavia defeated Pavilion 32-29 in overtime Tuesday night in the opening game of the 36th annual Rotary Club Girls Basketball Tournament at Genesee Community College.
Batavia trailed after the first quarter 11-10 but held Pavilion to just six points in the second quarter while scoring only two themselves to trail 17-12 at halftime.
The Blue Devils outscored the Golden Gophers 10-4 in the third quarter to take a 22-21 lead into the fourth. Pavilion tied it 27-27 at the end of regulation, forcing overtime.
Batavia outscored Pavilion 5-2 in the extra period to secure the win.
Three Batavia players scored eight points each: Karizma Wescott, Violet Lopez and Ally Tomidy. Lopez hit two 3-pointers.
Emma Tillotson led Pavilion with nine points and one 3-pointer. Haylee Cordes added five points.
Pavilion (1-8) plays Notre Dame in the consolation game Thursday at 6 p.m. at GCC.
Image from the Village of Le Roy's proposed Comprehensive Plan.
An updated vision for the Village of Le Roy, a comprehensive plan, will be reviewed on Thursday by the Genesee County Planning Board to ensure it has no countywide or inter-community impact.
A comprehensive plan is prepared by a municipal government to guide zoning, development, and investment in a town, village or city.
The village plan was last updated in 2001. The proposed new comprehensive plan took an approach to ensure accountability and action, according to the draft document. It states that rather than just producing a hypothetical plan, this comprehensive plan was broken into three categories: downtown activation and neighborhood investment, natural resource protection, and community-driven planning.
The plan is a long-term vision that focuses on Main Street's growth, protects Oatka Creek, and puts residents at the center of future planning, especially senior citizens and young residents.
Public input was gathered through a survey issued in September 2024 and public workshops. Youth workshops were held in government classes at Le Roy High School, first in January 2025. Then, two public workshops were held, one in January and one in May. The first workshop drew 45 participants, while the second drew 15.
"Our Vision is to make the Village of Le Roy a 'Community of Choice' that helps people and businesses want to belong and thrive in," the village wrote in the comprehensive plan. "Our rich heritage and unique spirit, as well as our rural character and small-town charm, will add to a growing community that expands in ways that beneficially contribute to the lives of all who will live here, work here, and visit our beautiful Village."
The Village decided to implement a strategy called "Smart Growth."
"The goal of smart growth is to have sensible growth that balances our need for jobs and economic development with our desire to protect our natural environment," the village stated.
The smart growth principle was incorporated into all three themes of the plan.
According to Village Mayor Greg "Porp" Rogers, the new comprehensive plans saw no drastic changes from the one made in 2001.
The plan's first major theme focuses on downtown activation and neighborhood investment, outlining steps to support existing local businesses, improve infrastructure, and expand housing to meet new needs.
Intending to take immediate action, the Village will promote adaptive reuse of residential properties and map parking resources, as well as shopping and dining spots to make them more accessible.
Some goals, like reassigning village resources and adding to Trigon Park for recreational use, are long-term objectives but are still listed as priorities to elevate the village experience.
"Between 2010 and 2020, the Village experienced a 10% increase in residents aged 25-34 and a 4% increase in those 65 and older," the village said in the plan.
The increase in residents over a decade prompted the village to include housing accommodations in its plan, something they also cited as a county priority.
According to the community profile included in the plan, 42% of its residents work in manufacturing or a trade, 32% work in a service-based job, and the unemployment rate stands at 2.1%.
The second theme of the plan shifted its focus to protecting Le Roy's natural resources, particularly Oatka Creek, while balancing an environmentally friendly approach with the anticipation of future growth.
"Oatka Creek, the third longest tributary of the Genesee River, flows through Wyoming, Genesee, and Monroe Counties, supporting fishing, boating, recreation, and drinking water for the region," the village said in their plan. "Its scenic character is a major community asset, and residents identified its protection as essential to maintaining the Village's identity."
First, the village plans to map the trees in the village and apply for Tree City USA recognition, which honors communities that are effective in their forestry maintenance programs.
They also plan to look into renewable and clean energy resources, a goal that was said to be a later priority.
The plan's third and final theme focused on community-driven planning and on improving the quality of citizens' day-to-day lives. This shone in the plan through recreation improvements, volunteer opportunities, and the preservation of Le Roy's history and culture.
"By offering diverse and accessible recreation opportunities for all ages, we support smart growth and enhance community well-being," the village said. "Safe, engaging spaces encourage healthy lifestyles, strengthen social connections, and foster a sense of belonging."
The biggest goal associated with this theme was to create an annual art show for all ages to participate in, in which participants would make a piece of art that, in some way, highlights the village's history and culture.
"We feel this plan puts Le Roy on a path for progress and protects our rich historical path," Rogers said.
If approved by the county planning board, the plan would be implemented, and the action items deemed most important within all three themes will begin. Village officials working on the plan say that action items requiring "immediate action" will be prioritized.
To avoid the implementation challenges after the 2001 plan, the updated plan includes a detailed action plan divided into six categories, ranging from zoning changes to interagency cooperation.
The county planning board meets at 7 p.m. on Thursday in County Building #2.
The plan also promises annual reviews by an implementation committee and long-term evaluations, once every 10 to 15 years.
Construction is underway in the town of Bethany on a 21ドル million public water project that will serve 478 units across 28 miles, ending a decade-long wait for residents who have been hauling water to survive.
Contractors from Ransco Pipeline have started laying pipe on Bethany Center Road as town officials gathered with regional media to mark the progress of Water District 5, the largest of the town's water projects.
Town Supervisor Carl Hyde said 127 homes in water districts 5 and 6 are currently hauling water, with large dairy farms transporting thousands of gallons daily to water their cattle.
"These 10 years have been a nightmare, but it is going to turn into a dream come true for a lot of people," Hyde said.
The project is installing 155,000 linear feet of water main, one pump station and one 230,000-gallon water storage tank on Marsh Road. Phase one includes about 40,000 feet of water main installation on Bethany Center Road running up to the tank site.
Hyde said the town expects water to flow to all taps by the end of 2027.
The cost ballooned from an original 16ドル million estimate to 21ドル million due to COVID-19 impacts on material prices. The project would have cost 33ドル million using the originally planned ductile iron pipe, but switching to PVC saved 12ドル million.
Each unit will pay 689ドル annually in debt service. A unit typically represents a single-family dwelling, though dairy farms and some businesses are charged for multiple units based on anticipated water usage.
Deputy Town Supervisor Diane Fowler said the project represents 10 years of work since she joined the town board.
"We are more than elated to be this far down the road now and excited to keep going and finish out with Water District 6, which will be our next endeavor," Fowler said. "It hasn't been without a lot of pain."
Hyde said the project overcame multiple hurdles, including COVID-19 price increases, easement negotiations with some property owners, state Department of Environmental Conservation issues, and ongoing USDA approval delays for phase two.
The decade-long water quality crisis has forced some residents to abandon their homes. Hyde said 11 houses now sit vacant because wells went dry and owners walked away rather than continue hauling water.
"People just get tired of fighting the fight to haul water, so some people have actually walked away from their homes here in Bethany," Hyde said.
Residents currently drive to Stafford, Batavia or Pavilion to fill water totes, then haul them home and transfer the water before it freezes. Some families take their children to relatives' homes for bathing.
Hyde said Cornell Cooperative Extension and University of Michigan studies show dairy cows produce significantly more milk when switched from well water to potable water, with reduced veterinary costs. One dairy farmer already shut down his cattle operation because his farm's water supply failed two years ago.
The median age in Bethany is 62, and Hyde said the town board considers the fixed-income population when making budget decisions. The town will not raise property taxes based on water availability, though market forces may naturally increase home values, which could lead to higher assessments. Hyde said the town will weigh these issues at the appropriate budget times and acknowledged increased assessment alone could trigger property-tax cap overrides.
Paul Barrett, water operator for the town of Batavia, said his department will operate and maintain Bethany's water districts under an intermunicipal agreement. Batavia already services Water District 4 for Bethany.
Barrett said the system will reduce homeowners' ISO insurance ratings because municipal water can maintain consistent fire flow, unlike tanker truck relays that provide water in spurts.
"Typically, a tanker relay will only maintain 500 gallons per minute," Barrett said. "Municipal water will maintain that at least that continuously."
Zach Anderson with Clark Patterson Lee, the design engineer on the project, said phase one also includes contract two for the water storage tank construction.
The town sent surveys to Water District 6 residents and received favorable responses. Hyde said that project awaits completion of District 5's phase two.
Hyde said the town has a meeting scheduled with the USDA on Jan. 15 to push for approval of phase two.
"My patience is getting short," Hyde said.
Adam Whalen, vice president of Ransco Pipeline, said material supplies are adequate, but prices continue rising about 4% every six months.
"The sooner the town moves forward with these other districts, the better it's going to help everyone out," Whalen said.
Hyde said some residents who had advocated for public water died before the project began.
"I feel bad that it didn't happen soon enough, but there's only so much we can do," Hyde said.
Fowler said the town is reviewing its comprehensive plan and zoning to prepare for growth now that public water makes Bethany more desirable for development. The town once had a doctor's office and store but has been largely left out of Genesee County's economic development.
"We have started to put in place some meetings and committees, and look at our comprehensive plan, how we want Bethany to build out now that we have, it's a desirable community," Fowler said.
Water District 5 will serve approximately 300 homes, three businesses and six dairy farms. Bethany has 665 total homes and seven farms across all five water districts, representing more than 1,200 buildings, including businesses.
Hyde said potable water will improve health outcomes, with children missing fewer school days due to stomach and intestinal viruses. The town once had a doctor's office and store, but has been largely left out of Genesee County's economic development.
Fowler said the town is reviewing its comprehensive plan and zoning to prepare for growth now that public water makes Bethany more desirable for development. She said the town could attract housing developments, retail businesses and other commercial expansion.
Fowler said Bethany's proximity to Batavia and Rochester via the Thruway positions the town well for growth.
"We have started to put in place some meetings and committees, and look at our comprehensive plan, how we want Bethany to build out now that we have a desirable community," Fowler said. "We have public water, and that will absolutely change the dynamic going forward."
There was a lot of talk in the Town of Alabama on Monday night about noise and what the developers of the proposed STREAM Data Center at WNY STAMP plan to do about.
Bradley Wells, a senior site selection and development manager with Stream, said mitigating noise is, in fact, a top priority for the company. He acknowledged that complaints about noise is one of the major issues raised about data centers across the nation and noted that STREAM wants to lead the industry in cutting noise levels at its facilities.
The company will undertake significant measures at the proposed two-million-square-foot facility to control noise generated by chilling fans on the rooftops of the buildings housing a massive array of computers, all of which generate heat.
Wells said the planned air-cooled technology and high-quality fan systems are designed to minimize noise from the rooftop chillers, which will be the primary sound source at the three-building facility.
"Stream Data Centers takes a more premium view about what our buildings look like, how they operate," Wells said. "This is partly because that's the right thing to do, and it's also the guidelines that are put in the EIS."
In addition to the noise-mitigating construction of the fan systems, an architect with the company in attendance said screening will be employed to help dampen the noise. The materials that will be used are still being reviewed.
The sketch plan presentation marked the first detailed public look at the data center project, which would occupy 90 acres (correction from 60 acres) across two STAMP sites. Planning board members raised concerns about noise levels, job creation numbers, proximity to residences, and public safety infrastructure needs. The presentation was designed to help STREAM collect feedback before finalizing plans. The feedback process is just starting. Committee members will use the information to potentially help formulate additional questions and provide further feedback. Community members are also welcome to submit questions to the town.
Wells said the company has already completed computer modeling of noise levels using selected equipment and building designs. The facilities must meet New York State DEC guidelines of 45 decibels at night and higher thresholds during daytime hours.
Alabama resident Gerry Bacon, who lives less than a quarter mile from the proposed north campus, questioned whether the DBA measurement standard adequately captures low-frequency noise below human hearing range. Bacon asked why the company wouldn't use DBC ratings, which give equal weight across the sound spectrum.
Wells said DBA weighting remains the standard established in the Environmental Impact Statement and is oriented to human hearing profiles. He said the acoustic study will provide detailed sound level projections when submitted with the formal application.
The facilities will use air-cooled chillers on the roof rather than water-based cooling systems. Wells described air cooling as both the predominant technology in current data center construction and a more expensive approach that reduces noise compared to evaporative cooling systems.
Each building would include rooftop chillers surrounded by acoustic screening made from metal and sound-absorbing materials. The company reduced its backup generator count to four generators on the north and south sides of each building, down from an initial proposal of 12 generators per building. (corrected number of generators per building and number of previously proposed generators)
Stream Data Centers has operated for more than 25 years and manages over 26 campuses nationwide. Wells said the company views its facilities as 30-year minimum investments built for long-term partnerships with communities.
The company has not disclosed which tenant would occupy the facilities, though Wells said they're working closely with the customer to ensure the buildings meet their needs. He could not say when the tenant's identity would be made public.
The coolers are not the only potential noise issue. The facility will also use diesel-powered backup generators.
The backup diesel generators would run infrequently, and for limited durations, Wells said, contrary to some assumptions about data center operations.
The generators serve primarily "house and life safety loads" rather than maintaining full facility operations during power outages. Wells said they would run only during emergencies, long enough to keep the lights on and allow systems to safely shut down.
"The objective is to make sure that when I need the generator, I can use it," Wells said. "The incentive there is to work with the manufacturers to say, can I do it every 30 days? Can I do it every 45 days?"
Testing typically occurs monthly rather than weekly, he said. The industry standard balances ensuring generator readiness against fuel costs and emissions from unnecessary operation.
Wells said the generators would not produce anywhere near the 500 megawatts needed to run the full facility during an extended power outage. Instead, they provide enough power to save data and safely power down systems.
"There's no way they're going to produce enough power to run that AI facility," said Drew Reilly, director of planning and environmental services at Wendel Companies. "Those generators are not generating 500 megawatts of power."
Board members pressed for details on job creation, noting the proposal falls far short of STAMP's original employment projections. The three buildings, totaling nearly 2 million square feet, would employ approximately 120 people combined between STEAM and its tenant.
"Right now, we've used up half of the real estate with this proposed facility, yet we're only supposedly employing less than 1,000 people," one board member said, referencing the original STAMP Environmental Impact Statement projection of 9,300 full-time positions.
Each building would have only 65 parking spaces(削除) , requiring a variance from zoning requirements for 665 spaces per building based on square footage (削除ここまで). (correction, no variance required, just a waiver from the planning board; the presenter said variance).
Mark Masse, CEO of the Genesee County Economic Development Center, said STAMP still has 300 to 400 developable acres remaining after this project. He said the site could potentially accommodate five more facilities similar to Edwards Vacuum, which is proposing 300 to 600 jobs.
"We will have a significant economic impact and an economic benefit for the community, including the town of Alabama, that will be part of this project," Masse said. He said detailed economic studies would be submitted with the formal application.
Wells said the 120-figure doesn't account for third-party contractors handling security, snow removal, and equipment maintenance, or the construction trades jobs during the building phase. He emphasized these are trade positions requiring electrical and mechanical skills, not just software engineering roles.
"These are great trade jobs as well, because these are big machines," Wells said. "So you need electrical trades, you need mechanical trades to be able to help facilitate continuous operation of these facilities."
The north campus location, closest to existing residences, was selected because it has zero wetland impacts. Alternative sites would have triggered U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permitting requirements for jurisdictional wetlands.
Reilly said the project will need to address the fire department's capabilities for the 52-foot-tall buildings. Wells said the company has conducted studies on fire protection needs and designed the buildings with external roof access stairs and fire hydrant loops around each structure.
The facilities would store diesel fuel in above-ground tanks with containment areas for the backup generators. Wells said the tanks are similar to those found at hospitals and hold approximately 9,500 gallons.
Security gates would operate around the clock with guard booths screening all visitors. Emergency responders would have access through Knox box systems or similar arrangements.
Several residents expressed frustration with the perceived short public notice for the meeting and the difficulty obtaining information about the project. The meeting was posted on the town website approximately 10 days before it occurred.
"We're having a hard time getting information, you know, because it's not given freely to the residents of the town," one resident said during the meeting.
Wells said Stream plans to hold community information sessions later this month or in early February, where residents can ask questions directly. The company will reach out to people who attended Monday's meeting and will issue press releases about the public sessions.
STREAM is not seeking an allocation of hydropower from the state's low-cost Niagara Falls power program, according to Masse. The company may apply for "high load factor" benefits, an as-of-right program based on consistent electricity usage rather than allocated power.
GCEDC is paying for electrical infrastructure improvements needed to deliver 600 megawatts to the site. Masse said state law requires developers to fund necessary grid upgrades rather than spreading costs to ratepayers.
The two-campus design includes one 650,000-square-foot building on the south campus, utilizing the former Plug Power site, and two identical buildings on the north campus. Buildings would use precast concrete panels with color variations and limited windows, except in front of administrative areas.
All utilities would run underground. The facilities would connect to existing water mains, the Plug Power sanitary system, and reuse portions of existing stormwater management infrastructure.
Planning board members have until the end of this week to submit additional questions and concerns to the chairman. The board authorized consultants to begin a formal review once Stream submits a complete application and the required fees.
Stream has not yet filed a formal site plan application with the required fees. The sketch plan stage allows applicants to gather early feedback before completing the full submission.
The project must comply with a 60-page findings document issued by the planning board in 2017 based on the STAMP Environmental Impact Statement. GCDC is serving as the lead agency for coordinated environmental review.
The planning board's next meeting is scheduled for Feb. 2.
Team Captains: Sophia Falleti, Notre Dame, Lydia Ross, Elba, Mia Gilkes, Pavilion, Violet Lopez, Batavia. Photo by Howard Owens.
It gives Tim Call obvious delight to play Stump-the-Rotarian each year at the Batavia club's tip-off luncheon for the Club's annual Girls Basketball tournament. He peppers members with trivia questions about tournament history, as he did Tuesday afternoon.
Few members get the questions right about which team won the first tournament, who won the most MVP awards, when the Pavilion last won the tournament, and more.
This is the 36th annual tournament hosted by the Batavia Rotary Club, so there's a lot of history behind it, and Call, the tournament chair for most of its history, has a wealth of questions, and somehow, the student-athletes have all the answers that the club members never manage to get right.
The tournament's first winner was Attica. Christine Volpe won four MVP awards, and Pavilion last won in 1998. Pavilion is among the four teams back this year, along with Elba, Notre Dame, and Batavia.
There are games tonight and Thursday night at Genesee Community College.
Notre Dame Coach Vinny Falleti praised the tournament's showcase of female athletes in the region.
"This is a really great display of female athletes in this area," Falleti said. "There are a tremendous amount of female athletes who are also scholar-athletes, and this is a great night to shine for those young ladies."
Falleti's Notre Dame team faces Elba in the first game on Tuesday. That matchup is particularly significant for Falleti, as Elba defeated Notre Dame four times last season.
"We have a tough draw. We have the defending champs. We lost to them four times last year," Falleti said. "So it's a really tough first round for us, but we'll give it our best we can to try and be competitive and do it with what we always say, win with dignity and lose with class."
Elba Coach Charlie Pangrazio said he's proud to bring back the defending champions.
"They compete as hard as anybody I've ever been around. And every year, I think we bring it up another level," Pringrass said.
Batavia Coach John McCulley noted this marks the first time the tournament kicks off his team's season, coming in their third game.
"This is a completely different year for us," McCulley said. "This will be the first time the Rotary tournament actually kicks off our season."
Pavilion returns to the tournament after a three-year absence. Coach Ben Schwenebraten acknowledged his team lacks height but makes up for it in determination.
"What they don't have in height, they really make up for in heart," Swanbrotten said. "We have 10 girls that are going to work hard, and just like the coaches said, they're just going to play as hard as they can for the entire game."
The tournament has featured halftime games for fifth and sixth-grade girls for 19 years, Call said. He noted his involvement with the tournament spans about 27 or 28 years, starting with security duties.
Call asked each team's captains to explain why they love basketball. The responses emphasized team bonds and personal growth.
"It's made me shape myself," said Notre Dame's Gianna Falleti.
Batavia's Leilah Manuel spoke about her team's journey from going winless to becoming competitive.
"We've gone through going 0 and 20 and building up, and now that we have this team, whereas we've played together for a long time, we have no seniors, it's just a great bond we have," Manuel said.
Elba's Lydia Ross, who won the Rotary's Service Above Self Award last year, highlighted the memories basketball creates.
"My favorite part about basketball is just the memories I've been able to make and the amount of memories I have because of it, and it's just something nothing else can give me," Ross said.
Pavilion's Mia Gilkes said her favorite part is building relationships with teammates, while teammate Haylee Cordes praised her coach.
"He gives us so many amazing opportunities, and he also puts a smile on my face. He's like, the best coach I've ever had," Cordes said.
Batavia plays Pavilion on Tuesday. The consolation game and the championship game will be played on Thursday at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
The "We’ve Only Just Begun" senior luncheon, held at the So. Alabama Firehall on Judge Road in Oakfield, is taking a winter break!
We want everyone to remain safe at home and not out on the snowy, slippery roads. We are wishing each of you a Very Happy, Healthy and Blessed New Year (2026)!
We can’t wait to see you in the Spring. Our very first "Welcome Back Luncheon" will be April 21, 2026.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) recently announced his January mobile office hours at Hamlin Public Library and Genesee County Satellite Office.
Hawley continues to proudly serve the hardworking people of the 139th Assembly District and remains accessible year-round to all those who have questions or concerns they wish to share with him.
The assemblyman’s staff will attend the mobile office hours and will attend to the needs of any constituents who stop by.
"Mobile office hours are a great way to meet with constituents and address concerns or questions in the district," said Hawley. "I want to encourage everyone to visit whenever they wish to. My office is ready to take your calls and help address your needs."
The office hours are as follows:
Hamlin Public Library 1680 Lake Road Hamlin, NY 14464 Date: January 20, 2026 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Genesee County Satellite Office 420 East Main St., Batavia, NY Contact: 585-345-9910 Date: January 7, 14, 21 & 28 Time: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Genesee County Youth Bureau is excited to announce the 22nd Annual Family Game Night on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026. The event will be held at the Batavia City Centre, 1 Batavia City Centre, Batavia, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Please use the entrance near City Hall. This community event is designed to bring families together for an evening of family fun and connection. Our theme this year is "Unplug and Play with Genny the Genesee County Cow."
Event Highlights:
Free Admission
A free board game for each family to take home
Interactive community booths
A free hot chocolate station
Free pizza
A raffle featuring local prizes
Meet Genny the Cow
Children must be accompanied by an adult in order to attend and receive a board game. All youth who visit each booth will be entered into a raffle to win one of the several prizes from businesses around Genesee County.
Please contact the Genesee County Youth Bureau at 585-344-3960 or Genesee.youthbureau@dfa.state.ny.us with any questions, comments, or concerns. For additional information, visit https://www.geneseeny.gov/Events/Family-Game-Night.
A Michelada Flavor Photo from Amigos With Flavor's social media site
Nestor Ocanas is likely not the only one looking forward to warmer days ahead, and the restaurateur has plans for customers to enjoy those days outside with a cold beverage and live music on the patio at Amigos With Flavor.
Ocanas has been making those plans since his liquor license came through from New York State. That means a bar with assorted beers, hard liquors, margaritas, and other cocktails, plus specials, he said.
"A lot of people would come and ask for beers and margaritas. We are really excited," Ocanas said to The Batavian Monday. "We will be opening for the full week soon, probably the beginning of February."
The site at 4110 W. Main St., Batavia, will feature his fellow Elba friend and musician Bobby and the Pedestrians throughout the warmer seasons, Ocanas said.
The band’s social media site describes it as "A ukulele fusion rock n’ roll roots band, blending styles such as ska, reggae, rock n' roll, and punk with the use of a large variety of instruments including various ukuleles, didgeridoos, steel drum, hang drum, djembe, cajon, and various other percussion instruments."
"We bring the best live rock entertainment from small acoustic shows to full electric laser light shows," WNYmusic.com states.
Amigos With Flavor’s own social media site has been abuzz about a Michelada drink staff want folks to try: a definite notch over from a Bloody Mary, it’s rich in umami savoriness, with a combination of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, hot sauce, chili powder, tomato and/or fruit juice, with a light Mexican lager to bubble through with some crispness.
They have added to the menu with fajitas, carne asada steak, and shrimp tacos. A mix of margaritas, sizzling foods and live music will make for "a lively, fun restaurant," he said.
Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. 585-201-7324.
United Memorial Medical Center President Jill Graziano accepts a 12,000ドル gift from Ricky Palermo and the Ricky Palermo Foundation in support of patient care at UMMC. Submitted Photo
Press Release
For 29 years, the Ricky Palermo Foundation has been a powerful force for good, raising and donating more than 2ドル million to organizations dedicated to healing, rehabilitation, and hope.
Ricky Palermo recently gave Jill Graziano, president of United Memorial Medical Center, a gift of 12,000ドル from his foundation in support of patient care at the hospital.
We are deeply grateful to be one of the Foundation’s long-standing beneficiaries and to share in its mission of improving lives through sustained community support.
This gift reflects the Foundation’s continued commitment to patients and families served by UMMC and the strength of long-term partnerships that make a meaningful difference close to home.
All proceeds from the Foundation continue to benefit:
Rochester Regional Health – United Memorial Medical Center (Batavia, NY)
Strong Memorial Hospital – Spinal Wing
Batavia YMCA – FES Bike Program
The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis
As the Foundation looks ahead to an exciting 30th year, we extend our sincere thanks to Ricky Palermo and all who support this incredible legacy of giving.
To learn more about the Foundation’s 2026 upcoming events, visit RickyPalermoFoundation.org.
Plans are well underway for the 22nd Annual Celebrate Agriculture Dinner, which will take place Saturday, March 14, at 5 p.m. at the Alexander Fire Hall. This annual event is a celebration of Genesee County's No. 1 industry, agriculture. The highlight of the night is a delicious meal using all locally sourced foods and products from Genesee County farms and agri-businesses. The dinner is open to the public.
All tickets are available digitally online via the events page at GeneseeNY.com. Tickets are 40ドル each, or a table of eight can be purchased for 300ドル. Each ticket sold includes a 5ドル contribution to support the Genesee County 4-H program. Sponsorships are also available to support agricultural educational programs throughout Genesee County. Only 400 tickets will be sold, with electronic registration. Tickets must be purchased by March 6.
The following partners coordinate the Celebrate Ag Dinner: 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 2025 celebration included: Alleghany Farm Services, Allied Financial Partners, Arctic Refrigeration, Assemblyman Stephen Hawley, Carolina Eastern Crocker, Chapin, CropCare Drone Services of NY, Farm Credit East, Farm Family – The Porter Agency, Fieldstone Private Wealth, Freed Maxick CPA, Goodwin Farms, HP Hood, LLC, Junction Motor Freight, LLC, L&M Specialty Fabrications, LLC, Lamb Farms, LandPro Equipment, L-Brooke Farms, LLC, M&T Bank, My-T Acres, Inc, National Grid, Oxbo International, Perry Veterinary Clinic, Ron Clare Farms, Stein Farms, LLC, Torrey Farms, William Kent, Inc. and Windy Acres Farm.
Farms and businesses that donated locally grown food for the 2025 dinner included: Dairy Farmers of America, Dave's Ice Cream, Dorman Farms, Farm Fresh First, Inc./Nortera Foods, Fenton's Produce, Harrington's Produce, Oakfield Artisanal, Torrey Farms, Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc.
For questions or assistance with tickets and sponsorships, please contact Tory Thompson at The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, 585-343-7440 or tthompson@geneseeny.com.
Sean McPhee, Ryan Hinz, and Nick Yackeren Photo by Howard Owens
The Alexander Fire Department named Nick Yackeren its 2025 Firefighter of the Year at its annual awards ceremony Saturday evening.
"This year, the selection committee noted that there was one individual who had shown dedication, endurance, perseverance, always willing to help out however they were asked," said Sean McPhee, fire department president. "And he didn't just operate in the fireside. He operated across all segments of the department. And he showed a real drive to see the members of the department community and younger people to learn, grow and thrive."
Adam Meier received the 2025 EMS Award.
"This year, I chose this young man who has continuously shown up at the hall and then assisted when needed, including helping mercy medics with a CPR call," said Jenny McPhee.
Chief James Burkhardt presented the Chief's Award to Nathan Fix, who was also the department's top responder for the year with 171 calls.
"It's not just because of the top call response, but everything I give this guy (he does), no matter how much he seems to be busy, whether it be a snowmobile club, 'I'm doing a bed liner,' 'I got a customer coming in,' 'I got run because I got this,'" Burkhardt said.
The department's top 10 responders for the year were Barbara Eddy (35 calls), Paul Hirsch (38 calls), Ryan Hinz (40 calls), Matthew Grimes (49 calls), Anthony Johnson (57 calls), Jenny McPhee (65 calls), Thomas Green (67 calls), Bernard Fix (86 calls), Regan McPhee (92 calls) and Nathan Fix (171 calls).
Tom Green received the President's Award.
McPhee said Green drove the EMS portion of transferring the ambulance operating certificate back to the Alexander Fire Department and finalizing the dissolution of Alexander EMS as a corporation, effective Dec. 29, 2025.
"One evening, I was sitting down, maybe we were having a couple of these, and talking with one of the members, and they started talking about, well, 'Hey, we're going to do this next year," McPhee said. "I looked them in the eye, and I said, 'Dude, if that ambulance says Alexander EMS and not Alexander Fire Department, there will be no next year.'"
McPhee said Green was also instrumental in pushing and driving the junior firefighter program.
The department also recognized members for their years of service, including Warren Groff (60 years), Jeff Spring, Ronald Merle and Brian Norton (55 years), Steve Spring, Charles Norris and Bill Hurst Jr. (50 years), Mark Passage and Paul Hirsch (45 years), Eric Wagner (40 years) and Jackie Long (35 years).
State Sen. George Borrello attended the ceremony and noted how at another fire dinner he attended, the department was kind of joking about recognizing members with just one year of service. He offered a different take on those with one year of service.
"The vast majority of people out there have zero years of service," Borrello said. "They don't serve their community, they don't give back, they don't come out of their get out of their bed at three o'clock in the morning in a snowstorm to respond to an EMS call or fire. So thank you for doing that. Whether it's one year or 50 years, God bless you all and thank you very much for what you do to serve the people of Alexander."
Assemblyman Steve Hawley followed Borrello with a one-word speech: "Ditto."
2026 Firematic Officers
Chief: James Burkhardt
Deputy Chief: Nathan Fix
1st Assistant Chief: Thomas Green
2nd Assistant Chief: Anthony Johnson
3rd Assistant Chief: Matthew Pietrzykowski
EMS Captain: Jenny McPhee
EMS Lieutenant: Amy Green
EMS Lieutenant: Marshall Merle
Truck Captain: Jeffrey Christensen
Truck Lieutenant: Nicholas Yackeren
Training Captain: Ryan Hinz
Training Lieutenant: Nicholas Yackeren
Safety Officer: Bernard Fix
Fire Police 1: Paul Hirsch
Fire Police 2: John Meier
Parade Captain: John Meier
Parade Assistant Captain: Carl Homer
2026 Administrative Officers
President: Sean McPee
Vice President: Thomas Green
Recording Secretary: Amanda Donnelly
Financial Secretary: Heidi McPhee
Treasurer: Barbara Pietrzykowski
Trustees: Lindsey Fernaays, Nathan Fix, Amanda Donnelly, Darlene Merle, Nicholas Yackeren, Anthony Johnson, Bernard Fix, Matthew Grimes.
Barker defeated Byron-Bergen 61-44 in boys basketball.
Cole DiQuattro led Byron-Bergen with 29 points. Cody Carlson added four points, Joel Lamb had three, Adam Cardenas scored three, Andre White had two and Evan Phillips scored two. Joe Brumsted added one point.
Anthony Taliaferro led Barker with 15 points. Carter DerSarkissian scored 14 points, Donovan Hefferon had 11, JJ Prynn scored eight, Peyton Wagner had six, Keagan Schaal scored four, Carson Schwab had two and Caden Garcia added one point.
Batavia claimed the championship on Friday in the Pete Arras Memorial Basketball Tournament, sponsored by the Batavia Lions Club, at Genesee Community College, beating Notre Dame 60-46
For Batavia, Gavin White scored 28 points, and Grady Hemer scored 19.
T.J. Cephus scored 18 for Notre Dame, and Matthew McCulley scored 12.
