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Third quarter High Honor, Honor and Effort commendation rolls released for Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School

By Billie Owens

Today, May 3, Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School Principal Pat McGee released the third quarter High Honor, Honor, and Effort commendation rolls. The students named to them are listed below.

GRADE 7

High Honor Roll  --  Brody Baubie, Trevor Beale, Braedyn Chambry, Tyler Chapman, Hallie Coleman, Grayson Erion, Gabrielle Graff, Mackenzie Hagen, Makala Hoopengardner, Kaidance Kimble, Callista Kinkelaar, Hanna Loewke, Colin Martin, Lincoln McGrath, Stephanie Onderdonk, Nathan Parsons, Carter Prinzi, Victoria Rogoyski, Travis Shallenberger, Dylan Shanley, Riley Sharpe, Malachi Smith, Lydia Zaffrann, Megan Zwerka

Honor Roll  --  Coral Allbright, Emma Balduf, Carlee Barons, Kylee Baxter, Daniels Dawson, Chloe Gilbert, Autumn Hafner, Hendrik Haymon, Aurora Hiscutt, Dru Nowatchik, Brendan Pimm, Quintin Rich, Emma Starowitz, Liliana Vanegas, Lukas Volkmar, Natalie Zastrocky, Sawyer Zinter

Effort Roll  --  Brody Baubie, Kylee Baxter, Trevor Beale, Braedyn Chambry, Grayson Erion, Gabrielle Graff, Mackenzie Hagen, Hendrik Haymon, Makala Hoopengardner, Kaidance Kimble, Callista Kinkelaar, Hanna Loewke, Colin Martin, Lincoln McGrath, Stephanie Onderdonk, Nathan Parsons, Carter Prinzi, Lynnea Rehberg, Victoria Rogoyski, Travis Shallenberger, Dylan Shanley, Riley Sharpe, Emma Starowitz, Connor Windhauser, Lydia Zaffrann, Megan Zwerka

GRADE 8  

High Honor Roll  --  Cassidy Ball, Jason Bleiler, David Brumsted, Fiona Burke, Dayanara Caballero, Cameron Carlson, Caris Carlson, Evan Cuba, Kendan Dressler, Frank Hersom, Ryan Muscarella, Valerie Pastore, Haydin Perez, Kendall Phillips, Elizabeth Piper, Abigail Raccuia, Austin Salmonds, Brianna Salmonds, Emily Salmonds, Alexandria Schuck, MacKenzie Senf, Zoey Shepard, Matthew Tanner, Ava Wagoner, Lillian Walker, Leyna Wheeler, Hannah Wies, Kaya Wildschutz

Honor Roll  --  Alyssa Ball, Molly Belknap, Jack Benstead, Robert Gaylord, Emily Henry, Alec Kulikowski, Matthew Olander, Victoria-Pearl Parnell, Andrew Rimmerman, Joshua Tardy, Emily Yun

Effort Roll  --  Cassidy Ball, David Brumsted, Fiona Burke, Dayanara Caballero, Cameron Carlson, Caris Carlson, Evan Cuba, Frank Hersom, Ryan Muscarella, Valerie Pastore, Haydin Perez, Kendall Phillips, Elizabeth Piper, Abigail Raccuia, Austin Salmonds, Brianna Salmonds, Emily Salmonds, Alexandria Schuck, MacKenzie Senf, Zoey Shepard, Matthew Tanner, Joshua Tardy, Ava Wagoner, Lillian Walker, Leyna Wheeler, Hannah Wies, Kaya Wildschutz, Emily Yun, Nicholas Zwerka

GRADE 9

High Honor Roll  –  Corin Abdella, Camryn Brookhart, Madison Burke, Caleb Carlson, Aidan Clark, Sadie Cook, Leanna Curts, Makenzie Eccleston, Grace Huhn, Brooke Jarkiewicz, Johnathon Klafehn, Danyel Nowatchik, Madelynn Pimm, Elli Schelemanow, Kyle Schramm, Grace Shepard, Alayna Streeter, Ella VanValkenburg, Kaitlyn Windhauser, Emily Zastrow, Corden Zimmerman

Honor Roll  –  Jared Barnum, Rachel Best, Caleb Calhoun, Angelique Heick, Meghan Kendall, Brenda  Ramos Francisco, Jorie Strzelecki, Alexandra Vurraro, Kolbie Walker, Ashley Weit, Emma Will, Claire Williams

Effort Roll  --  Corin Abdella, Rachel Best, Camryn Brookhart, Madison Burke, Payton Buzzell, Caleb Calhoun, Caleb Carlson, Aidan Clark, Sadie Cook, Leanna Curts, Makenzie Eccleston, Grace Huhn, Brooke Jarkiewicz, Meghan Kendall, Danyel Nowatchik, Madelynn Pimm, Elli Schelemanow, Grace Shepard, Alayna Streeter, Ella VanValkenburg, Alexandra Vurraro, Kolbie Walker, Claire Williams, Kaitlyn Windhauser, Emily Zastrow, Corden Zimmerman

GRADE 10  

High Honor Roll  –  Mya-Lyn Albanese, Nicholas Baubie, Bianca Brumsted, Emily Chaback, Jonah Clare, Richard Denson, Veronica Duell, Joshua Fleming, Eden Goff, Sara Goodman, Devon Heick, Hope Hersom, Kelly Ireland, Carli Kirkwood, Colby Leggo, John Mercovich, Andrew Parnapy, Bryanne Puma, Alaura Rehwaldt, Skylar Sharpe, Joshua Swapceinski, Morgan Vincent

Honor Roll  –  Matthew Gonyea, Trebor Johnston, Aiden Kulikowski, Julia Pangrazio, Mason Singer, Deacon Smith, Sarah Sue Streeter, Xavier Thomas

Effort Roll  –  Nicholas Baubie, Bianca Brumsted, Hallie Calhoun, Emily Chaback, Jonah Clare, Richard Denson, Veronica Duell, Joshua Fleming, Eden Goff, Sara Goodman, Devon Heick, Hope Hersom, Kelly Ireland, Carli Kirkwood, Colby Leggo, John Mercovich, Andrew Parnapy, Bryanne Puma, Alaura Rehwaldt, Skylar Sharpe, Deacon Smith, Joshua Swapceinski, Morgan Vincent

GRADE 11

High Honor Roll  –  Julianna Amesbury, Caitlin Ashton, Justine Bloom, Alexander Brumsted, Siomara Caballero, Hannah Catalino, Alexander Dean, Madison Farnsworth, Kyle Foeller, Sara Fraser, Emily Gonyea, Chad Green, Amaya Gunther, Zachary Hannan, Rick Hubbard, Rose Hubbard, Cambria Kinkelaar, Chad Kupfer, Jillian Menzie, Wyatt Sando, Auburn Schwartzmeyer, Caleb Sharpe, Chloe Shuskey, Garrett Swinter, Annabella Vurraro, Bryce Walker, Isabella Wilder, Grant Williams, Luke Williams, Nathan Zwerka

Honor Roll  –  Megan Bogue, Jefferson Bradley, Jacey Donahue, Kelsey Fuller, Mikaela Hubler, Travis Lambert, Melissa MacCowan, Enson Nieves, Samuel Pringle, Anastasija Rebisz, Clayton Sadler, Kevin Smith, Peter Smith, Brandon Stefanski, Isabelle Stevens, Miriam Tardy, Hannah VanSkiver, Bryce Yockel, Braeden Zimmerman

Effort Roll  –  Julianna Amesbury, Caitlin Ashton, Justine Bloom, Ariana Bobzien, Megan Bogue, Sydney Brown, Alexander Brumsted, Siomara Caballero, Hannah Catalino, Alexander Dean, Madison Farnsworth, Kyle Foeller, Sara Fraser, Kelsey Fuller, Emily Gonyea, Chad Green, Amaya Gunther, Zachary Hannan, Coltin Henry, Rose Hubbard, Cambria Kinkelaar, Chad Kupfer, Travis Lambert, Melissa MacCowan, Jillian Menzie, Enson Nieves, Anastasija Rebisz, Wyatt Sando, Auburn Schwartzmeyer, Caleb Sharpe, Chloe Shuskey, Brandon Stefanski, Isabelle Stevens, Cameron Sweet, Garrett Swinter, Miriam Tardy, Annabella Vurraro, Isabella Wilder, Grant Williams, Luke Williams, Bryce Yockel, Nathan Zwerka

GRADE 12

High Honor Roll  –  Benjamin Bowman, Lydia Campbell, Anthony DiQuattro, Adam Drake, Jared Fregoe, Tabitha Fuller, Leah Gale, Emma Goodman, Annaliese Hersom, Jason Hoehn, William Johnson, Janae' Meister, Sabastian Pawlukewicz, James Roggow, MacKenzie Rosse, Brianna Shade, Wade Thompson, Kyong-ae Yun

Honor Roll  --  Peyton Armison, Cory Bater, Sarah Bleiler, Nicholas Brown, Cole Carlson, Ryan Cooper, Joshua  Hohn, Hunter Leach, Alexandra Lord, Kevin Paasch, Dekota Schmidt, Jose Cardona Tirado, Rebecca Velasco

Effort Roll  --  Benjamin Bowman, Lydia Campbell, Cole Carlson, Ryan Cooper, Anthony DiQuattro, Adam Drake, Jared Fregoe, Tabitha Fuller, Leah Gale, Emma Goodman, Annaliese Hersom, Jason Hoehn, William Johnson, Trinitty Madison, Janae' Meister, Sabastian Pawlukewicz, James Roggow, MacKenzie Rosse, Brianna Shade, Wade Thompson, Jose Tirado Cardona, Rebecca Velasco

Learn more about Alzheimer's and dementia with free education programs

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Memory loss is not a normal part of aging, and it could be an indication of something more serious such as disease that is causing dementia symptoms. The Alzheimer’s Association® Western New York Chapter offers a free education program that discusses the basics about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, which will be offered in Genesee County in May.

"Know the 10 Warning Signs" will be presented at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 7. Genesee County Aging Services at 2 Bank St. is hosting the presentation. 

On Monday, May 13, Chapter dementia experts will be in Batavia to present "Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors." This program is aimed at helping caregivers decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers and strategize to overcome these challenges. The free class is set for 1 p.m. in the NYS Veterans Home at 220 Richmond Ave. 

Registration is required for both programs by calling the Chapter office during traditional business hours at (716) 626-0600, ext. 313, or 24-hours a day, 7 days a week at 800-272-3900.

A special joint enrichment social program is set for Thursday, May 30 at the Jello-O Gallery Museum in Le Roy. This free activity is for people living with dementia and their care partner and highlights living well with a dementia diagnosis by offering the opportunity to socialize, learn and have fun with others facing similar circumstances. Registration is required by calling Lauren Ashburn or Shelby Edgerly at (716) 626-0600.

Additionally, the Chapter oversees several monthly caregiver support group meetings across the county, which allow caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges and hear advice for overcoming them:

  • 3rd Wednesday (May 15) at 7 p.m. – Richmond Memorial Library, 19 Ross St. in Batavia
  • 3rd Thursday (May 16) at 1 p.m. – Genesee County Office for the Aging, 12 Bank St. in Batavia
  • 2nd Monday (May 13) at 2 p.m. – The Greens of Le Roy, 1 West Ave. in Le Roy

Community social programs, or respites, are also available every month in Batavia and Corfu. This program provides relief to those who care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia and offers them some time to refresh and recharge, while their loved one is engaged in social activities in a safe environment.

First Presbyterian Church of Batavia offers this free service on the fourth Monday (May 27) from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For additional information, please call Mickey Rodak at (585) 455-5940.

Indian Falls United Methodist Church at 7908 Alleghany Road, Corfu, offers a respite program on the third Wednesday (May 15) from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information, call Celinda McQuiston at (585) 762-9105. 

To learn more about other Alzheimer’s Association programs and services, contact the WNY Chapter office at 800-272-3900.

You can also access dementia care programs and resources by calling the Genesee County Office for the Aging at (585) 343-1611.

Northgate Free Methodist Church to host Marriage Night simulcast event and dinner May 31

By Billie Owens

Press release:

On Friday, May 31, from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Northgate Free Methodist Church in Batavia will host the first Marriage Night simulcast event in partnership with RightNow Media.

Marriage Night offers husbands, wives, and engaged couples the opportunity to hear from Francis and Lisa Chan ("You and Me Forever"), Les and Leslie Parrott ("The Good Fight"), and Christian comedian "Michael Jr."

Registration is $15 per person, and includes dinner prior to the simulcast.

Healthy marriages don’t happen by accident. They require work and dedication, but with the busyness of life and the pressures of culture it’s easy to lose focus. What is marriage supposed to look like when those initial bursts of excitement give way to everyday troubles and routines?

This event provides expert teaching and principles for a lasting relationship while challenging the couples to see the greater purpose of marriage — to glorify God and advance his Gospel. Marriage is made for more than fairy tale ending. It’s a picture of God’s hope and redemption for a world in need of rescue.

Northgate Free Methodist Church is located at 8160 Bank Street Road, Batavia.

To register and find out more information, visit here. If you have questions, you may call the office at (585) 343-4011 or email Pastor Gloria at gloria@northgatefmc.com

Invite your friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors to attend this one-night event.

Byron Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary Annual Chicken BBQ & Chinese Auction is Memorial Day

By Billie Owens

The Byron Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary Annual Memorial Day Chicken Barbeque & Chinese Auction will be held on Memorial Day -- Monday, May 27 beginning at 11:30 a.m. until sold out.

Dine in or take out.

Cost is $10 for 1/2 chicken dinner; $5 for 1/4 chicken dinner. Meals include: Barbeque chicken, macaroni salad, coleslaw; homemade rolls and dessert. Beverages available on site.

Chinese Auction is $5 per 25-ticket sheet. Drawings begin at 1 p.m. You DO NOT need to be present to win!

Music will be performed by the Hill Brothers.

All proceeds fo toward the auxiliary's mission to help the Byron Fire Department and community members.

Join is at the Byron Fire Hall on Memorial Day! It is located at 6357 E. Main Road (Route 262) in Byron.

Reminder: St. Jerome Guild's 'Step into Spring' Fashion Show Weekend

By Steve Ognibene

The St. Jerome Guild prepares the annual “Step into Spring” fashion show, basket raffle, and luncheon prepared by Michael Tomaszewski, on Sunday, May 5.

 The Guild and Genesee Community College will host "Fashion Show Weekend" with Genesee’s annual fashion show, “Limitless” scheduled on Saturday, May 4.  

The Guild is excited to highlight several clothing stores in Batavia: JCPenney, Kohl’s, and Marshalls. More than 20 models will feature the Jerome Jewelry Collection and fashions for toddlers, teens, women, men and seniors.

The event will be held at Fr. Slomba Hall, 19 Sumner St., Batavia, at noon. Presale only tickets are available for $20 at the Jerome Center Gift Shop, 16 Bank St., Batavia. For more information call 585.343.6030, ext. 4198.

The Guild continues to support UMMC/Rochester Regional Healthcare as a corporate donor giving thousands of dollars to capital fundraising initiatives over the years and has contributed countless volunteer hours on a variety of fundraising events. The proceeds in the amount of $5,000 from last year’s fashion show purchased four natal bassinets.

The Guild has offered an annual Health Career Professional Scholarship to hospital employees and high school seniors for decades. Currently, the scholarship is being awarded to outstanding employees who are continuing their education in the medical field.  

The Guild’s volunteerism has served the medical community for more than 100 years. In years past, the Guild sponsored fundraisers for St. Jerome Hospital; such as, casino nights, formal dances, fashion shows, and Mother’s Day breakfasts to name a few.

Pictured above modeling for the fashion show, back row is (from left): Mariah Ognibene, Alyssa Ognibene; front row, Lena Ciszak and Mia Ognibene.  Photo below at Jerome Center Gift Shop: Debbie Pellegrino gift shop volunteer, and Annette Labarbera, president of St. Jerome Guild.

Submitted by, Marilyn C. Dickinson, secretary St. Jerome Guild Inc. Board of Directors. If you have questions, contact 585.356.9398.

Alden Area Ecumenical Choir to perform April 27 at First Baptist Church in Batavia

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Alden Area Ecumenical Choir is presenting its spring concert this month titled “A Little Talk With Jesus In The Heavenly Sunlight.” Good Christian choral and solo music followed by a refreshment reception will make for a fun time.

The choir always takes a free-will offering to benefit local and global needs. This year’s offering will benefit Rise Against Hunger, supported by the Marilla Methodist Church and Neat Repeats, a clothing ministry supported by the Alden Presbyterian Church.

The choir offers two concerts, Friday evening, April 26, at 7 o'clock and late Saturday afternoon, April 27, at 4 o'clock. The Friday concert will be at the Alden Presbyterian Church, 13298 Broadway in Alden, at the corner of Crittenden. The Saturday concert is held at the First Baptist Church, 306 E. Main St., Batavia, between Summit and Swan streets.

USDA opens application portal for new ReConnect Rural Broadband program

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue announced Tuesday that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is now accepting online applications for funding through the new ReConnect Rural Broadband Pilot Program.

These funds will enable the federal government to partner with the private sector and rural communities to build modern broadband infrastructure in areas with insufficient internet service. Insufficient service is defined as connection speeds of less than 10 megabits per second download and 1 megabit per second upload.

ReConnect funding applications can be submitted now at reconnect.usda.gov.

“Reliable, high-speed broadband internet e-Connectivity is critical for economic prosperity and quality of life in the 21st century, from education to health care to agriculture to manufacturing and beyond,” Secretary Perdue said.

“We at USDA are very excited to begin accepting applications for funds from this new and innovative program, which will bring critical infrastructure investments to homes, farms, ranches, schools and health care sites in rural America.”

Congress first appropriated funds for the new Rural e-Connectivity Pilot Program, known as ReConnect, in 2018. The program will be a proof-of-concept, enabling USDA to create and implement innovative options for rural connectivity by providing various financial packages to our customers.

In this first round of funding, USDA is making available at least $600 million in rural broadband projects, through $200 million in grants, $200 million in loan and grant combinations, and $200 million in low-interest loans. The application deadlines for each of these funding packages are as follows:

  • May 31, 2019, for projects seeking federal funds from the grants-only package;
  • June 21, 2019, for projects seeking a combination of federal loans and grants; and
  • July 12, 2019, for projects seeking low-interest federal loans.

This $600 million appropriation from Congress more than doubles federal funding available through USDA’s longstanding broadband programs. Future rounds of funding for ReConnect will be announced later this year.

For additional information about the ReConnect program, see page 5981 of the Feb. 25, 2019, Federal Register (PDF, 230 KB) and page 64315 of the Dec. 14, 2018, Federal Register (PDF, 286 KB).

In April 2017, President Donald J. Trump established the Interagency Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity to identify legislative, regulatory and policy changes that could promote agriculture and prosperity in rural communities. In January 2018, Secretary Perdue presented the Task Force’s findings to President Trump.

These findings included 31 recommendations to align the federal government with state, local and tribal governments to take advantage of opportunities that exist in rural America. Increasing investments in rural infrastructure, including rural broadband infrastructure, is a cornerstone recommendation of the task force.

To view the report in its entirety, please view the Report to the President of the United States from the Task Force on Agriculture and Rural Prosperity (PDF, 5.4 MB). In addition, to view the categories of the recommendations, please view the Rural Prosperity infographic (PDF, 190 KB).

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov.

GC Youth Bureau hosts Family Game Night on Thursday at County Building 2

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee County Youth Bureau will host the 16th annual Family Game Night in celebration of National County Government Month.

The event will take place on Thursday, April 25th from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at County Building 2, 3837 W. Main Street Road, Batavia.

The night will consist of interactive booths for families to learn more about the services provided by the county through the departments as well as prizes and activities. The cost is $5 for a family of four and $3 for an individual which includes a light dinner and beverages.

Each family will take home one brand new board game after they visit each booth. Families also have the chance to enter to win free Muckdogs game tickets as well as free six-inch subs from Subway!

Adults must be accompanied by a child to receive the board game.

Please call the Youth Bureau for more information or to register at 344-3960.

The Genesee County Youth Bureau would also like to thank Batavia Kiwanis Club, Batavia Muckdogs, Upstate Milk, Big Pauly’s Pizzeria, Batavia’s Original, Walmart, Settler’s Family Restaurant, Subway, and Tops Friendly Markets for making donations to this event.

Volunteers who help veterans honored at luncheon

By Billie Owens

Submitted information and photos from VA WNY Healthcare System:

A luncheon was held today at the Quality Inn in Batavia for VA Voluntary Service volunteers to recognize their many hours of volunteer service to veterans at VA WNY Heatlhcare System.

Irvin Bratz, in photo above, is pictured with Danielle Bergman, interim associate director for VA WNYHS. Bartz was specifically recognized for his 7,500 hours of volunteer service.  

Below, members of the Brockport Elks Lodge provided a donation to VA Voluntary Service in the amount of $1,500.

Below, the luncheon was well attended.

Below, VA Chaplain Brian Stuttler with VA volunteers.

City Historic Preservation Commission needs to fill two vacancies

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The City of Batavia Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) needs to fill two vacancies and is looking for a few good architects (we really need those!), historic district residents (and these!), historians, or volunteers who have significant interest in the commitment to historic preservation.

If this sounds like you, and you are a City resident, submit your application today!

The HPC works toward the protection, enhancement, and perpetuation of landmarks and historic districts in the City of Batavia. For about an hour a month you can help preserve our historic community.

Volunteer today to see the difference you can make! Applications are available at the City Clerk’s office or online at www.batavianewyork.com in the documents section of the Citizen Action Center.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact City Clerk Heidi J. Parker:

Office of the City Clerk

One Batavia City Centre

Batavia, NY 14020

Phone:  (585) 345-6305, opt. 5, opt. 1

Fax:    (585) 343-9221

E-mail:  hparker@batavianewyork.com

Here's the season lineup of concerts at Darien Lakes State Park, all on Tuesday nights at Shelter #2

By Billie Owens

Darien Lakes State Park 2019 Concert Schedule

All concerts are on Tuesdays from 7 to 9 p.m. at Shelter #2 and they are free to attend. Day area admission to the park is free after 5 p.m.

Darien Lakes State Park is located at 10475 Harlow Road, Darien Center. Phone is 547-9242.

Please remember that Darien Lakes State Park is a “Carry in/Carry out” park.

Please help support park events by supporting the Natural Heritage Trust. Donations to the Natural Heritage Trust for Darien Lakes State Park can be made at the park or online at www.nysparks.com.

June 25 -- Corfu/Pembroke Community Band

Come and kick off the beginning of the 2019 concert series with the hometown sounds from the Corfu/Pembroke Community Band. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the classic concert band ensemble.

July 2 -- NY Rockin’ Revue Gone Country

It’s all country tonight. They will be bringing out the banjo, fiddle and pedal steel guitar. It’s Patsy Cline, Charlie Daniels, Hank Williams Sr. and many more.

July 9 -- Ghost Riders

The Ghost Riders will lift your spirit with drivin’ “hardcore country” music with a twang that makes listeners of all ages want to get out and dance and have fun.

July 16 -- The Swooners

Enjoy the music of every decade, from the Roaring '20s thru the Big '80s and beyond. They will make you want to dance, sing, laugh -- and cry.

July 23 -- Auslanders

German night is back with the sounds of the Auslanders! This popular Buffalo band has been entertaining for years, as one of the area's most enjoyed Oktoberfest bands. Authentic German selections and a polka here or there will keep your feet stomping and spirits high!

July 30 -- Old Hippies

The music of the Old Hippies is acoustic and a varied brand, be it their own creative songs or recognizable covers from a golden musical era: the '50s,'60s, '70s and on and on...nostalgic to those who lived it and romantic to those who didn’t.

Aug. 6 -- The Batavia Swing Band

Listen and dance to Batavia’s premier swing band as they play the most popular swing, jazz, and Big Band music from over the years.

Aug. 13 -- The Band Anastazja

Armed with a banjo, mandolin, fiddle, guitar, bass, spoons, eight kids, Mom, Dad and Gramma. The Band Anastazja travels here, there and everywhere to entertain folks with their unique style of music and their genuineness in real life stories that they tell and the songs to accompany them.

Aug. 20 -- In The House

Their repertoire includes dance hits and classics from the '40s to present. Their music includes R&B, blues, disco, country, gospel and classic rock.

Aug. 27 -- The Boomers

The Boomers have a vast repertoire of classic songs, which includes favorites from the '40s thru the '90s.

Sept. 1 -- NY Rockin' Revue  ***Fireworks Afterward***

Whether it’s classic rock, country or old-time favorites, NY Rockin’ Revue provides it all. Enjoy a night of great music and dancing, along with a firework show following.

Oakfield museum open for the season on Sundays, new this year is a permanent U.S. Gypsum Co. display

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and press release:

On Saturday, April 6, Oakfield Historical Society held the 2019 Grand Opening of its Research Center & Museum. The theme this year is “Community Organizations."

New this year is a permanent display dedicated to U.S. Gypsum Company in Oakfield. There has been a steady stream of requests to see these artifacts and for information on the workers, many of whom were immigrants.

Throughout the years, the USG employed a great proportion of the town’s residents. It was an honor to have current USG Oakfield site Plant Manager Duane VanDuuren performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Current and past employees also attended the celebration.

The Oakfield Historical Society is located at 7 Maple Ave., Oakfield, and is open on Sundays 1-3 p.m. (excluding holiday weekends).

Alexander United Methodist Church Kids Art Studio has debut exhibit now on display at GO ART!

By Billie Owens
Submitted photo and press release:
 
Alexander United Methodist Church (AUMC) Kids Art Studio presents their first exhibit on display now at GO ART! through May 4.
 
There will be an artist reception from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 23.
 
The gallery is open:
 
Thursday & Friday -- 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday -- 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
 
GO ART! is located in the historic Seymour Place building in Downtown Batavia at 201 E. Main St.

Reminder: City conducting household survey to support grant application for home improvements

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The City of Batavia is “All In” to revitalize our city through economic development and housing programs that will raise our standard of living and make our community one of the most attractive places, to live, work, and play.

The City is considering applying for Federal grant assistance to help income eligible owner-occupied single-family homeowners with essential home improvements.

Sometimes the smallest things we can do for our neighborhoods can have the biggest impact. Home improvements are a catalyst for changing the look and feel of a neighborhood and improving residents’ quality of life.

Here in Batavia, Summit Street is a perfect example of a street coming back to life with vibrancy and is now a model for other transformations across our City. When one resident makes improvements to their home, others follow.

Grant funds would enable homeowners to make home repairs with grant and deferred-loan funding. Any single-family homeowner is encouraged to apply.

If you own a single-family home in need of repairs please download the survey from the City’s “Useful Links” tab on the City’s homepage at www.batavianewyork.com. Click on Residential Rehabilitation Survey or pick up a survey in the City Manager’s office at City Hall.

The deadline to submit surveys to the City Manager is April 19.

The City’s goals include the following:

1.        Create a viable urban community with decent housing.

2.        Ensure a suitable living environment for all (safe, sanitary and habitable dwellings).

3.        Expanding economic opportunities for all including persons of low to moderate income.

4.        Rehabilitate the City knowing that it starts with one building at a time.

The City of Batavia is requesting your full cooperation to help us obtain housing rehabilitation grant funding. Please complete and mail in or drop off the surveys to: City Manager’s Office, One Batavia City Centre, Batavia, NY, 14020.

Richmond Memorial Library's 38th year of 'Books Sandwiched In' begins next month

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Richmond Memorial Library starts its 38th year of the "Books Sandwiched In" program in the month of May. "Books Sandwiched In" is a book-review program where community members share their reviews of new, popular or relevant books, often nonfiction.

Attendees of the program are not expected to read the books before attending; instead, they will discover if it is something they are interested in reading or learning about. 

Each program begins at 12:10 p.m. and goes until 1 p.m. on Wednesdays during the month of May. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lunch; coffee, tea and cookies will be served. 

This year’s series brings another eclectic round of books and reviewers:

May 1: Library Director Bob Conrad reviews Susan Orlean’s "The Library Book" (2018)

May 8: Kathy McAllister reviews Tara Westover’s "Educated" (2018)

May 15: Elizabeth White reviews Maxwell King’s "The Good Neighbor: The Life and Work of Fred Rogers" (2018)

May 22: David Beatty reviews Michael Pollan’s "How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression and Transcendence" (2018) 

May 30: The "Books Sandwiched In’"Committee shares their reviews of fiction titles! The committee comprised of members Richard Beatty, Sue Chiddy, Robert Knipe, Frances McNulty, Sandy Seyfried and Beth Stich will share short reviews of various fiction titles. 

This year’s program includes a few new additions. The first is a 50/50 cash raffle to benefit the Barker Public Library, a fellow library in the NIOGA system.

In January of 2019, the Barker Public Library was completely destroyed by a fire. To help support them as they recover, we will hold a 50/50 cash raffle at each Books Sandwiched

In session in May. Anyone wishing to make a donation by cash or check made out to Barker Public Library may do so as well during the month of May at the circulation desk. All funds will go directly to Barker Public Library. 

A door prize will also be presented at each session! All participants can enter for a chance to win a copy of our Richmond Reads title, "Southernmost" by Silas House. One copy will be given away at each of our five sessions. 

"Books Sandwiched In" is generously supported by the Friends of Richmond Memorial Library. 

More adult programs coming soon:

Thursday, April 11: Lynn McGrath, Ph.D., a world-renowned musician and faculty member at Eastman Community Music School at the University of Rochester will present a free classical guitar concert at 7 p.m.

Friday, April 12: Free computer classes! “Manage Your Digital Life” from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. “Gadgets and Gear” from 1 – 3 p.m. For more information and to register, call the library at 585-343-9550. Registration is required.

Monday, April 22: Mystery Readers’ Monday: Join this book discussion group as we discuss Agatha Christie’s "The Murder of Roger Ackroyd." All are welcome, the only requirement is that you read the book prior to discussion. 

Thursday, May 2: Library book sale 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.; library budget vote & trustee election; free concert at 7 p.m.! 

For a calendar of all events, visit our website at batavialibrary.org. Spring Program brochures are available at the library.

Richmond Memorial Library continually provides access to physical and virtual resources and services that meet the educational, informational and recreational needs of its diverse community in a safe and comfortable environment.

'Spring Fever Fundraiser Event' at Willow Bend Inn April 28 to support GC shelter animals

By Billie Owens

Volunteers For Animals will host a "Spring Fever Fundraiser Event" from 1 to 6 p.m., Sunday, April 28, at the Willow Bend Inn, located at 3489 W. Main Street Road in Batavia.

A $10 entry fee to the fundraiser for animals at the Genesee County Animal Shelter includes a hamburger or hot dog.

There will be 50/50 raffles and a Chinese auction.

Classic rock music will be provided by FOMR.

Is there a better way to spend a Sunday? C'mon out and have some fun to support an awesome cause!

Joe Vernon's collection of model sailing ships on display at GO ART! April 11 through May 4

By Billie Owens
Collection of Model Sailing Ships by Joe Vernon is on exhibit at GO ART! from April  11 through May 4.
 
There will be an artist reception from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 at GO ART!
 
Gallery hours are Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
 
GO ART! is located inside the historic Seymour Place building at 201 E. Main St. in Downtown Batavia.

Double 4-H rabbit and cavy youth show is April 27 at GC fairgrounds

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee County 4-H Fur and Feather Club along with Wyoming County 4-H Rabbit Ears Club are hosting a double rabbit and cavy youth show on Saturday, April 27, at the Genesee County Fairgrounds, 5056 E. Main Street Road, Batavia.

The show is open to all local youth ages 19 and younger (you don’t need to be a 4-H member). Showroom opens at 8 a.m., health checked by 9 a.m., judging promptly begins at 10 a.m.

Entry Fee is $3 per animal if postmarked by April 19; or fee is $4 day of show. Participants may enter in both shows.

For complete show rules and entry forms please visit here, or contact the Genesee County 4-H Office at 585-343-3040, ext. 101.

HLOM needs volunteers to help out at the Batavia Antique Show Friday and Saturday at Call Arena

By Billie Owens
Press release from the Holland Land Office Museum:
 
We are looking for volunteers for our 13th Annual Batavia Antique Show this weekend at the Richard C.Call arena on the Genesee Community College Campus.
 
We are looking for volunteers for Friday, April 5th, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and from 5-8 p.m. Duties on Friday would be general setup, including setting up tables, helping vendors move their stuff in, and starting at 5 p.m., ticket sales.
 
On Saturday, April 6th, we are looking for people to volunteer from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Duties on Saturday would include ticket sales, runners, general help, and by 3 p.m., take down and clea up.
 
If you are interested in helping, please send an email or call 585-343-4727 and let us know what day you are interested in and what times. You are free to do one hour or more -- up to the entire time, we will be needing help all day.
 
When you arrive on your designated day and time, Ryan Duffy, the director of the museum, will be around to place you and answer any questions you may have.
 
We look forward to hearing from you and thank you in advance for your help!
 
Nellie Slocum 

Notice of three public hearings of the GC Legislature

By Billie Owens

Notice of Three Public Hearings

(1) Genesee County shall conduct a public hearing on fair housing practices and to identify any concerns and issues with fair housing practices in Genesee County. The public hearing will be held at the Old Courthouse, 7 Main St., Batavia, at 5:30 p.m., April 10. All persons who wish to speak will be heard. Written comments will be accepted upon delivery to: Clerk, Genesee County Legislature, 7 Main St., Batavia, NY 14020 prior to the hearing. The hearing location is in compliance with accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

(2) There has been introduced before the Legislature of the County of Genesee, a Local Law Introductory No. Two, Year 2019, which regulates the transfer of secondhand articles. The Genesee County Legislature will conduct a Public Hearing on the proposed law at the Old Courthouse, 7 Main St., Batavia, at 5:30 p.m. on April 10. All interested persons will be heard.

(3) A public hearing will be held at 4:30 p.m. on April 11 at the Old Courthouse, 7 Main St., Batavia, to discuss the implementation of the HP Hood LLC Project that received Community Development Block funding from the New York State Office of Community Renewal (Project No. 444ED893-17). The purpose of the hearing is to obtain citizen views regarding any aspect of the project’s implementation including, but not limited to any construction, financing, and employment opportunities resulting from the project. The hearing facilities are handicapped accessible. Written comments are invited and will be accepted upon delivery to the courthouse address above. The hearing location is in compliance with accessibility standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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