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Iroquois wildlife refuge seeks bids for 167 acres of grassland hay, deadline is July 2

By Press Release

Press release:

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge will offer for bid 167 acres of grassland hay in three different fields ranging in size from 49 to 60 acres.

The Refuge annually provides a total of 1,100 acres of grassland habitat for migratory birds and resident wildlife. Active management of these grasslands is necessary to provide the highest quality nesting and migration habitat.

The Refuge haying program helps in this management process by reducing encroachment of broad leaf weeds and shrubs.

Hay will be allocated on a highest bid per field basis for each field. Sealed bids will be accepted until close-of-business (COB) on Friday, July 2. An official Bid Sheet, available from the Refuge headquarters, is required to make a bid.

Completed Bid Sheets can be mailed to the Refuge headquarters at 1101 Casey Road, Basom, NY 14013 and must contain all the information requested.

If you have any questions about the haying program or would like to see the fields, please call Paul Hess at (585) 948-5445, ext. 7032.

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge is located midway between Rochester and Buffalo and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Photos: Grand opening WoodSmith Estates in Batavia

By Howard B. Owens

Jan Smith, with the giant scissors, cuts the ribbon during the grand opening Thursday on her new wedding and events venue at 9149 Creek Road, Batavia, WoodSmith Estates.

The concept of WoodSmith Estates is the people rent the venue and hire their own caterer, DJ, photographer, and other vendors. Smith opens the venue, provides the chairs and tables, and cleanup after the event.

Smith said she decided to start the business because after COVID-19 hit, the venue that was going to host her son's wedding canceled the event. She tried to find a venue that could host the wedding but with the vendors she had already hired and found it nearly impossible to find such a location. She said that's when she saw a need for a place like WoodSmith Estates.

Rath: small businesses and for-profit art & culture groups should apply for NY grants to recover from pandemic

By Press Release

Press release from Sen. Ed Rath:

Beginning June 10th, small and micro businesses, as well as small for-profit independent arts and cultural organizations, can apply for up to $50,000 in state grants, and I want our neighbors to be among the first to know!

It is estimated that more than 300,000 small businesses here in New York are eligible for funds from a new $800 million small business recovery program.

This aid could be used to help employers finance operating expenses incurred during the coronavirus pandemic between March 1, 2020 and April 1, 2021 and can be used to cover:

  • Payroll, insurance, and utility costs;

  • Commercial rent or mortgage payments for NYS-based property;

  • Payment of local property or school taxes;

  • Costs of personal protection equipment (PPE) necessary to protect worker and consumer health and safety;

  • Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) costs, and other machinery or equipment costs;

  • Supplies and materials necessary for compliance with COVID-19 health and safety protocols.

According to Empire State Development, the agency in charge of administering these grants, priority will be given to socially and economically disadvantaged business owners, including minority- and women-owned business enterprises, service-disabled veteran-owned businesses and veteran-owned businesses, and businesses located in economically distressed communities.

For program eligibility and use requirements, and for additional information, visit the state’s Pandemic Small Business Recovery Grant Program website. The website is expected to be updated as additional details become available, so I encourage you to check it regularly.

I also encourage eligible employers to begin preparing necessary documents in the days ahead, and to sign up for alerts at the link above.

Funds available for this program are limited, so I encourage eligible employers to apply swiftly as soon as applications become available.

While much more needs to be done to truly help our local businesses get back on track, it is my hope that by raising awareness for this program early, eligible businesses will be able to benefit from this fund.

GV BOCES seniors in Mechanical Engineering Program met Tuesday with Turnbull and HP Hood reps

By Press Release

Submitted photos and press release:

Genesee Valley BOCES students as high school seniors have the opportunity to meet with area companies about jobs and career opportunities. 

Tuesday afternoon students from the Electrical Mechanical Program at the Batavia CTE spoke with Turnbull HVAC (photo above) and HP Hood (photo below) representatives about career opportunities for students completing training at the CTE.

The event is being sponsored by the Genesee County Business-Education Alliance, Genesee Valley BOCES Batavia CTE Campus and the Genesee County Economic Development Center.

GCEDC Board approves incentives for $400 million in new capital investment in Genesee County

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors approved incentives for a $345 million solar project in the Town of Byron, and construction of a campus-wide substation at the Science Technology and Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP) at the agency’s June 3 board meeting.  

Excelsior Energy Center is a $345.55 million utility scale solar farm project that will be located on multiple agricultural properties in Town of Byron and will generate 280 MW (AC) solar generation. The project will receive approximately $32.7 million in property and sales tax incentives. 

The project will provide enhanced property tax payments via a 20-year PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Taxes) and host benefit agreements. The project will contribute $6,500/MWAC in total PILOT/host benefit payments annually + a 2-percent annual escalator over the 20-year term. Resulting property tax-type benefits of the project in the Town of Byron, Byron-Bergen Central Schools, and Genesee County are estimated at more than $45.2 million.

The project has an estimated $117.5 million fiscal economic impact, including PILOT payments, host benefit payments, fire district payments, elimination of agricultural exemptions on acreage used for solar panels, direct construction payroll, other direct construction related purchases, and the payroll and purchases during operations. This results in an estimated return of $20.60 in economic impacts vs the tax impacts of the land's prior use.

Plug Power Inc. is investing $55 million toward the construction of a campus-wide substation at STAMP. The substation will enable 100-percent renewable, reliable electricity at less than $0.035/kwh to future tenants in partnership with the New York Power Authority and National Grid.

Plug Power’s investment in the substation is on top of the $232 million the company is investing to build a green hydrogen manufacturing facility at STAMP. The facility is estimated to create 68 full-time jobs. 

Plug Power’s facility will produce green hydrogen produced using an electrolysis process of water utilizing clean hydropower producing approximately 45 metric tons of liquid hydrogen annually for applications such as heavy-duty freight and forklifts.

Plug Power will receive approximately $2.8 million in sales tax incentives related to the electrical substation construction.

GCEDC Board to consider final incentives for $345M solar project in Byron and $55M STAMP electrical substation

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors will consider approving final incentives for a $345 million solar project in the Town of Byron, and construction of a campus-wide electrical substation at the Science Technology and Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP). Both matters will be discussed at the agency’s June 3 board meeting.

NextEra Energy Inc. is planning a $345.55 million Excelsior Energy Center utility scale solar farm project to be located on multiple agricultural properties in Town of Byron. The project is a 280 MW (AC) solar generation system, and a 20 MW 4-hour energy storage system, that will be interconnected with the electric grid.

The project will provide enhanced property tax payments via a 20-year PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Taxes) and host benefit agreements. The project will contribute $6,500/MWAC in total PILOT/host benefit payments annually + a 2 percent annual escalator over the 20-year term.

Resulting property tax-type benefits of the project in the Town of Byron, Byron-Bergen Central schools, and Genesee County are estimated at over $45.2 million.

NextEra Energy is seeking approximately $32.7 million in property and sales tax incentives. A public hearing on the proposed agreement was held April 19.

Plug Power Inc. is planning to invest $55 million toward a campus-wide substation at STAMP. The substation will enable 100 percent renewable, reliable electricity at less than $0.035/kwh to future tenants in partnership with the New York Power Authority and National Grid.

The proposed substation investment is in addition to the $232 million Plug Power is investing to build a green hydrogen manufacturing facility at STAMP. The facility is estimated to create 68 full-time jobs.

Plug Power is seeking approximately $2.8 million in sales tax incentives related to the substation construction. A public hearing on the proposed agreements will be held at 10 a.m. on June 3.

The GCEDC Board meeting is at 4 p.m. and because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic the meeting will be conducted via videoconference and can be viewed online at www.gcedc.com.

Graham Corp. reports fiscal 2021 fourth-quarter and full-year results

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM), a global business that designs, manufactures and sells critical equipment for the energy, defense and chemical/petrochemical industries, today reported financial results for its fourth quarter and full fiscal year ended March 31(“fiscal 2021”).

The Company separately announced that today it has completed the acquisition of Barber-Nichols Inc. (“BNI”), a specialty turbomachinery designer and manufacturer for total consideration of $70 million, subject to customary working capital adjustments. 

James R. Lines, Graham’s president and chief executive officer, said, “Overall, we had a solid year, slightly exceeding our expectations as short cycle sales were stronger than expected in the quarter. As we look back at fiscal 2021, I believe that the results of our persistent efforts to diversify our business as we continue to focus on becoming a more significant defense industry supplier were apparent, with 25 percent of revenue generated by sales to the U.S. Navy.

"While orders still indicate a weak environment in our energy and petrochemical markets, our strong backlog reflects $69.2 million of U.S. Navy orders received in fiscal 2021. We now have $104 million of firm backlog related to the U.S. Navy. This strong backlog, combined with the acquisition of Barber-Nichols, significantly advances our diversification strategy into the defense industry.

"BNI will be immediately accretive to fiscal 2022 earnings and expand our top line by 50 percent. We are excited to welcome the BNI team to Graham and look forward to working together for continued growth.”

  • Orders were for the year were $121.6 million including $69.2 million from the defense industry.
  • Backlog at fiscal year-end was $137.6 million; 76 percent of backlog was for the defense industry.
  • Graham furthers strategic diversification into defense industry with $70 million acquisition of Barber-Nichols Inc., a specialty turbomachinery company.

Click here to view the entire release, including financial statements.
Click here to view the teleconference slides.

To participate in today's Earnings teleconference call at 11 a.m. ET, dial (201) 689-8560.

Or click here to listen to the webcast.

Graham Corp. acquires Barber-Nichols Inc. for $70M

By Press Release

Press release:

Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM), a global business that designs, manufactures and sells critical equipment to the oil refining, petrochemical and defense industries, today announced that it has completed the acquisition of management-owned Barber-Nichols Inc. (“BNI”) for $70.1 million in a combination of 87 percent cash and 13 percent stock.

The Company also announced it has entered into new credit facilities including a 5-year term loan to finance a portion of the purchase price.

With $56 million in revenue and low-double digit EBITDA margins, BNI designs and manufactures specialty turbomachinery including highly specialized pumps, compressors and fans, and rocket engine turbopumps for critical applications, primarily in the defense and space industries.

Leading Supplier of Engineered Equipment to the Defense and Aerospace/Space Industries

  • Barber-Nichols is a premier supplier of specialty turbomachinery, pumps and electronic drives that address critical applications for the defense and aerospace/space industries.
  • Highly engineered products and solutions include advanced propulsion systems and integrated fluid, thermal and power generation systems for extreme environments.
  • Acquisition accelerates Graham’s diversification strategy; more than 80 of combined backlog now in the defense industry.
  • Proven track record of growth with multiyear visibility; current backlog of $100 million with approximately $40 million to convert into revenue in fiscal 2022.
  • Provides a scalable platform for organic and acquisitive growth in the defense, aerospace, advanced power generation, cryogenic and energy storage markets.
  • Expected to be immediately accretive to EPS, including shares issued for purchase.
  • Daniel J. Thoren, formerly president and CEO of Barber-Nichols, appointed to Graham’s executive team as president and chief operating officer.
  • Management to discuss the acquisition on today’s teleconference at 11 a.m. ET.

Click here to view the entire release.
Click here to view the slides for today's release.

CountryMax Stores partner with Guglielmo's Sauce maker to promote 'Homestead' products

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

CountryMax Stores, a Western New York family-owned business with 18 retail stores across the state, is partnering with Paul Guglielmo -- maker of Guglielmo’s Sauce, owner of Craft Cannery and host of a popular podcast -- to showcase its lineup of food items and home food-preparation products. 

“People are growing and preserving their own food at home again, which is so exciting," says Guglielmo. “As a dog owner, I’ve been a CountryMax customer for years. When I found all the ‘people food’ items at the center of store, I said ‘I need to be part of this.’ ”  

The homesteading trend, sometimes called "garden to table," is a space that CountryMax has long supported. Demand for quality seeds, gardening tools and canning products (including jars) has taken off in recent years. CountryMax Stores carry all the essentials, plus innovative new products to make harvesting and preserving fresh foods easy.

In addition, the retailer stocks many unique and/or hard-to-find prepared food products, including a huge selection of specialty soda flavors, Dutch Valley brand bulk treats and snacks, artisanal jerky brands, Jake & Amos jarred and pickled products and, of course, Guglielmo’s Sauce.

“In many ways, we’ve been preparing for the explosion in popularity that we see in backyard harvesting and the increased farm-to-table focus for our entire existence,” says Brad Payne, director of Sales.

“Longtime customers know us as the place to go every spring and summer when it’s time to plant their gardens, and we’re excited to continue to expand our offering in the most important part of that process -- the harvest.

"Paul’s reputation in Rochester as an authentic and well-respected voice who really resonates with people combined with his incredible knowledge in this area really is the perfect fit.”

Guglielmo, who was a Rochester radio personality before starting his sauce business, will be featured in radio and TV commercials, as well in publications, online videos and some live appearances. An experienced podcaster, Guglielmo plans to produce a limited-edition podcast series for the retailer.

“We’re even developing a live canning class,” he says. “I’ve taught (and taken) many cooking classes, but you don’t often get the opportunity to take a canning class. That will be different and cool!”

Watch for the CountryMax campaign featuring Paul Guglielmo to break in July and run through the fall harvest season.

Previously: Sauce boss Paul Guglielmo buys Bergen food manufacturing plant, hopes to double sales

Schumer proposes $52B in fed aid & incentives as catalyst for Upstate's semiconductor fab industry

By Press Release

Press release:

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer met with Micron Technology President and CEO, Sanjay Mehrotra, to pitch Micron to locate a future plant in Upstate New York after filing the bipartisan U.S. Innovation and Competition Act* last week.

The legislation combines his Endless Frontiers Act, other bipartisan competitiveness bills, and $52 billion in emergency supplemental appropriations to implement the semiconductor-related manufacturing and R&D programs authorized in last year’s National Defense Authorization Act. It also supports a legacy chip production program that is essential to the auto industry, the military, and other critical industries.

During his meeting with Mehrotra, the senator said New York boasts several sites across Upstate ready to be home to a new Micron facility -- from the STAMP** campus in Western New York (in Genesee County's Alabama) and the White Pines campus in Central New York, to Marcy Nanocenter in the Mohawk Valley and Luther Forest in the Capitol Region.

Schumer expressed his strong support for the project coming to the Empire State. As new federal incentives are being considered, Micron is evaluating opportunities to strengthen the company’s manufacturing and R&D footprint.

“Micron’s interest in exploring options to expand its footprint in the U.S., and potentially in Upstate NY, is exciting news for the entire state and country. I made it clear to Micron that I strongly support locating a cutting-edge memory fab at one of the several shovel-ready sites across New York and reiterated that Upstate NY’s robust semiconductor industry makes it the perfect place for Micron to settle,” Senator Schumer said.

“Our world-class manufacturing workforce combined with New York’s considerable experience in semiconductor manufacturing and R&D means the state is revving and ready to welcome a new facility. I stand ready to help Micron harness all that the federal government has to offer for the U.S. to continue to lead the semiconductor industry and cement New York as a global hub for high-tech manufacturing.”

Schumer added, “When I first announced my proposal to create the first-ever new federal semiconductor manufacturing and R&D incentives program, I said it could put sites across New York in contention for landing new semiconductor fabs and the thousands of new jobs that follow.

"I filed the bill to fully fund my proposal last week and am working to have the Senate pass the bill by the end of this week, but already it has sparked consideration by companies like Micron to expand domestically.

"Once we are able to pass the emergency funding into law, I will work to secure the federal investment necessary and offer my all-out support to help Upstate compete for this plant and other facilities that will help shore up our domestic semiconductor supply.”

Schumer pointed out, the United States has gone from producing 24 percent of the world’s semiconductors in 2000, to just 12 percent, while China by comparison, has gone from producing zero chips to 16 percent of the world’s supply. This is because the United States is not matching the investments that other competing nations are making in order to land new job-creating semiconductor chip fabs.

The historic U.S. Innovation and Competition Act, will provide federal incentives to semiconductor fabs in the United States, helping to reverse the trend of foreign-made semiconductors and level the playing field for companies like Micron to build new fabs in the United States.

Schumer said Micron is a strong supporter of CHIPS and passage, along with strong government support for a project, would increase their consideration of building new fabs like this one in the United States.

Micron is the only manufacturer of semiconductor memory and storage solutions in the United and the world’s fourth-largest semiconductor company. Employing more than 40,000 people in 17 countries, Micron is headquartered in Boise, Idaho, where it operates one of the world’s most advanced R&D centers, and has a strong U.S. manufacturing presence in Manassas, Va.

*U.S. Innovation and Competition Act -- section by section summary here, pdf / legislation text here, pdf

**STAMP is the acronym for Science and Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park.

Graham Corp. declares per common share quarterly cash dividend of 11 cents

By Press Release

Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM), a global business that designs, manufactures and sells critical equipment for the oil refining, petrochemical and defense industries, announced Wednesday (May 26) that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.11 per common share.

The dividend will be payable on June 23, 2021 to stockholders of record at the close of business on June 9, 2021.

Click here to view the entire release (pdf).

Local unemployment rate drops to 5 percent

By Howard B. Owens

The local unemployment rate hit its lowest level of 2020 so far in April at 5 percent, more than 10 percentage points what it was in the previous April, the worst month locally for the job market during the coronavirus pandemic.  

The 5-percent rate is still a point-and-a-half or so above the 3.6-percent rate of April 2019.

Outside of the 15.9-percent rate of a year ago, the highest rate for an April over the past 31 years was 7.6 percent in 2012.

The Labor Department reports 27,900 people in Genesee County's labor force, which is the aggregate of everybody employed and everybody seeking work. Of those, 26,500 have jobs and 1,400 are looking for jobs.

The March 2021 unemployment rate was 6.1 percent.

The state's unemployment rate is 8.2 percent.

Locally owned restaurants and food-related businesses ready to serve you

By Billie Owens

Alabama Hotel, 1353 Lewiston Road, Basom. Menu. Wednesday 4 to 10 p.m. for bar food and pizza dine-in, and takeout. Thursday thru Saturday 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. for full menu dine-in and take out. (585) 948-9994

Alex's Place, 8322 Park Road, Batavia. Indoor dining and take out. Tuesday & Thursday 11a.m. to 8 p.m. / Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. / Sunday 12 to 8 p.m. Menu. Now accepting reservations for parties of 5 to 10 people. Also, call-ahead seating for parties of up to 4 people within an hour of arrival. (585) 344-2999

Angry Charlie's Smokehouse & BBQ, 341 Ellicott St., Batavia. Authentic Eastern North Carolina BBQ. Eat in / Take out / Curbside pick up / Delivery. Open Tuesday thru Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (585) 322-5260

Batavia's Original, 500 E. Main St., Batavia. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. / Sunday 12 to 8 p.m. Heated patio. Daily specials. Online ordering, curbside pick up, dine in. No-contact delivery upon request. Menu. (585) 343-3303

Batavia Restaurant Supply Inc., 301 W. Main St., Batavia. All kinds of food, paper products, cleaning supplies sold, in addition to latex & mylar balloons, holiday & party supplies, restaurant equipment & supplies, and food-service smallwares. Hours are Monday thru Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Closed Sundays. Website. (585) 343-2139

Blondies Sip-n-Dip, 670 E. Main Street Road, Batavia. Serving Hershey's hard ice cream with a large selection of delicious flavors and toppings, decorated waffle cones, specialty sundaes, milkshakes and more! Different soft-serve flavors weekly -- including dairy free! Currently open daily from 1 to 9 p.m. Take a walk on the Ellicott Trail and stop in for a treat afterward. Visit us on Facebook or Instagram.

Bourbon & Burger Co., 9 Jackson St., Batavia. Dine in or take out: Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. / Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Closed Sundays. Menu. (585) 219-4242

Center Street Smoke House, 20 Center St., Batavia. Open Friday and Saturday nights only, 4 to 9 p.m. Call for reservations. Menu. (585) 343-7470

Chap's Elba Diner, 5 S. Main St., Elba. Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Menu. (585) 757-5001 or (585) 797-7505

Cinquino's Pizza, 314 Ellicott St., Batavia. Dine in, take out, curbside pick up. Delivery within Batavia city limits. Menu. Monday thru Thursday 11a.m. to 9 p.m. / Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. / Sunday 12 to 8 p.m. Order deadline is noon Friday for pick up Sunday or Monday. (585) 343-2447

Commit to Well, 301 North St., Batavia (YWCA side entry near driveway). Healthy meal prep service. Choose meals online -- orders are due by noon on Friday for pick up: Sundays 10 to 11 a.m. only / Mondays 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., or 4 to 6 p.m. / or pick up at Public Coffee Hub on Harvester Avenue M-F 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. ENJOY! Meals are $8 each, plus tax. New menu weekly. Email: committowellbatavia@gmail.com. (585) 409-5740

Dave's Ice Cream, 3872 W. Main Street Road, Batavia. Only locally purchased products, including Perry's hard ice cream in a wide variety of yummy flavors and toppings, plus homemade waffle cones. Different soft-serve flavors weekly; also sugar free! Open from 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily. Visit online.

D & R Depot Restaurant, 63 Lake St., Le Roy. Dine in, curbside pick up, free delivery in Le Roy, $1/mile elsewhere (no minimum). Full menu! Open 7 days a week 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (585) 768-6270. Order online, or call (585) 768-6270.

Eden Vegan Cafe & Bakeshop, 109 Main St. (inside Eli Fish), Batavia. Takeout only. Pre-order via the website for pick up. Menu temporarily reduced. Hours Tuesday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and again from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and again from 4 to 8 p.m. (585) 815-4487

Eli Fish Brewing Co., 109 Main St., Batavia. Dine-in, take out, and DoorDash delivery. Monday thru Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. / Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. / Closed Sunday. Menu. (585) 343-0008

Fishtales Hideaway, 107 Evans St., Batavia. Dine in and take out available. Open Monday through Thursday 1 to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday 1 to 9 p.m. Full bar. Here's our website and menu. (585) 219-4736

Islands Hawaiian Grill, 60 Main St., Batavia. Delivery, curbside, pick up, dine in. Tuesday thru Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. / Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. / Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Menu. (585) 483-3113

Mama Chavez's Taqueria, 7 Mill St., Le Roy. Takeout only. Tues - Fri. 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. / Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. / Closed Sunday & Monday. Daily specials. Call in your order for pick up (585) 502-5093.

Northside Deli, 162 Bank St., Batavia. Open 7 days a week. Monday thru Saturday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. / Sundays 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Full menu available to take out. Order ahead of time for fast service. Website. (585) 323-2888

O'Lacy's Irish Pub, 5 School St., Batavia. "Old-fashioned Comfort Food." Facebook page. (585) 343-3270

Oliver's Candies, 211 W. Main St., Batavia. Open 7 days a week, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Inside store shopping, curbside pick up. Ice cream parlor open. (585) 343-5888

Plaza Spirits, 563 E. Main St., Batavia (in Eastown Plaza). Open 7 days a week -- even Sunday! Come in and see us: Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. / Friday & Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. / and Sundays noon to 4 p.m. Or give us a call! (585) 343-4938

Pok-A-Dot, 229 Ellicott St., Batavia. Open 7 days a week, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dine in, take out, order by phone, or order online for pick up at "The Dot." (585) 343-6775

Public Coffee Hub, 56 Harvester Ave., Batavia. Full-service cafe -- dine in or carry out. Also food truck drive-thru at 355 W. Main St., Batavia. Free WiFi at cafe & TapGlo ping-pong available to buy. Locally roasted beans, fresh baked goods, Montreal bagels, chai lattes, hot cocoa, and more. Monday thru Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cafe (716) 392-2561. Food truck (323) 484-3482. Can text to order, too.

Roman's, 59 Main St., Batavia. Patio and indoor dining. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Last reservation and pick up time is 8:45 / Closed Sunday & Monday. Menu. (585) 345-6788

Settler's Restaurant, 353 W. Main St., Batavia. Dine in. Pick up. Online ordering. DoorDash. Open Monday thru Saturday 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. / Sunday 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Menu. (585) 343-7443

Southside Deli, 300 Ellicott St. (corner of Liberty Street), Batavia. Take out only. Open 7 days a week: Sunday 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Tuesday thru Saturday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. All deli and store items are available. Menu. Call ahead for quicker service. (585) 344-2220

Subway -- two franchises: the one inside Batavia Walmart, the other one at 8394 Alleghany Road, Pembroke, operated by Oakfield resident Doug Hendershott Jr. Open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eat in or take out. Order in person, online, or by phone. Walmart Subway phone is (585) 343-3023. Pembroke phone is (585) 591-1549.

Sweet Betty's, 15 Main St., Le Roy. Menu includes Perry's hard ice cream, soft serve, floats, etc., plus burgers, sandwiches, old-time candy, adult beverages. Fish fry on Wednesdays. Closed Tuesdays. Wednesday thru Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. / Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. (585) 502-6084

T.F. Brown's, 214 E. Main St., Batavia. Delivery, curbside pick up, dine in. Monday thru Sunday from 12 to 10 p.m. Order online or phone (585) 343-1547.

The Coffee Press, 13 Jackson St., Batavia. Dine in or take out. Monday-Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Closed Sunday. Menu. (585) 483-3096

The Original Red Osier Landmark Restaurant, 6492 E. Main St., Stafford. Open for in-house dine-in service Tuesday through Sunday 4 to 8 p.m. Curbside service available those days, too. Ordering starts at 1 p.m., pick up starts at 4:15. Specials can be viewed at red@redosier.com or on our Facebook page.

The Yngodess Shop, 73 Main St., Batavia. Curbside pick up, and free delivery with a $20 minimum (1 - 6 p.m.), call for more details. Sunday 12 - 6 p.m., Monday & Tuesday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wednesday thru Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Visit online. Call in your order. (585) 343-3170

West Main Wine & Spirits, 341 W. Main St., Batavia. Buy in-store or offering curbside pick up. Monday thru Saturday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. / Sunday 12 to 6 p.m. (585) 344-2717

Willow Bend Inn, 3489 W. Main Street Road, Batavia. Bar is open Tuesday thru Friday. Dine in or take out in restaurant from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Check our Facebook page for different specials & menu every Friday.

************************************************

If you send us updated information about your establishment, we will add it to this list. There is no charge.

To be added, email details, including location, hours, a link for menu, and delivery/pick up/dine-in options to:   billie@thebatavian.com

Graham Corp. to hold fourth quarter and fiscal year 2021 financial results conference call & webcast June 1

By Press Release

Press release:

Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM), a global business that designs, manufactures and sells critical equipment for the oil refining, petrochemical and defense industries, announced today that it will release its financial results for the fourth quarter and full fiscal year 2021, before the opening of financial markets on Tuesday, June 1.

The Company will host a conference call and webcast to review its financial and operating results, strategy, and outlook. A question-and-answer session will follow.

Fourth Quarter and Full Fiscal Year 2021 Financial Results Conference Call

Tuesday, June 1
11 a.m. Eastern Time

Phone: (201) 689-8560
Internet webcast link and accompanying slide presentation:  http://www.graham-mfg.com

A telephonic replay will be available from 2 p.m. ET on the day of the teleconference through Tuesday, June 8. To listen to the archived call, dial (412) 317-6671 and enter conference ID number 13718347, or access the webcast replay via the Company’s website at http://www.graham-mfg.com, where a transcript will also be posted once available.

Tompkins Bank of Castile rebrands itself -- it will be known simply as 'Tompkins'

By Press Release

Press release:

Tompkins Financial Corporation has announced plans for a rebranding effort which will better align its four banks in New York and Pennsylvania under the Tompkins corporate umbrella. As a result of the effort, Tompkins Bank of Castile, headquartered in Batavia, will be known simply as “Tompkins.”

The three other affiliated banks – Tompkins Trust Company, headquartered in Ithaca, Tompkins Mahopac Bank in the Hudson Valley, and Tompkins VIST Bank in Southeastern Pennsylvania – will also become Tompkins.

All existing banking products and services will be unchanged and will continue to be offered in all markets under the Tompkins brand. Tompkins Financial’s two other affiliate companies, Tompkins Insurance Agencies and Tompkins Financial Advisors, will keep their respective names and are otherwise unaffected by the change.

Stephen S. Romaine, Tompkins Financial president and CEO, says that over the next year, customers will see signage changes reflecting the new name; however, none of the local leadership is changing, nor is the local Board of Directors.

According to Romaine, “Tompkins’ unique community banking value proposition – which is centered around local decision-making, relationship-based products and services, deep community engagement, and a values-driven, collaborative, empowered culture – will be unaffected by the rebranding and name change.” 

The alignment of bank names is made possible by a consolidation of four existing bank charters to one, therefore also reducing duplicate regulatory and legal processes. “It just makes good sense and is well timed,” Romaine said. “Becoming ‘one Tompkins’ in name not only more closely aligns our Tompkins family, but in fact, brings additional advantages which support the company’s ability to maintain its commitment to sustainable excellence.” 

“Our long history has proven that the reason people and businesses choose to bank with Tompkins is, very simply, that we are their trusted community partner," said John M. McKenna, Tompkins Bank of Castile president & CEO.

"We have been serving Western New York since 1869 and have been part of Tompkins Financial for more than 20 years. This change only enhances our ability to be that valued partner, delivering the high level of experience excellence our customers know and deserve." 

The changes are expected to take effect later in 2021, subject to regulatory approval. Other than a slight change to the bank’s brand name, the process and resulting single charter are expected to be a seamless and non-impactful transition for customers.

GCEDC Board OKs incentives for two projects, accepts incentives application for solar project in Elba

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors approved incentives for projects totaling $13.5 million of new capital investment at its May 6 board meeting.  

Forefront Power LLC (Elba Solar) will invest $9.7 million to build a 5 megawatt community solar project on Norton Road in the Town of Elba. The project would generate approximately $518,803 in new revenue to Genesee County, the Town of Elba, and the Elba Central School District over the proposed 15-year agreement.  

The project also will fund a community benefit agreement for workforce development and economic development projects in Genesee County. Forefront Power LLC will receive approximately $1.416 million in sales and property tax exemptions. 

Batavia Special Needs Apartments LP is investing $3.75 million to add 20 living units to an existing special needs housing campus on East Main Street in the City of Batavia.

Batavia Special Needs Apartments LP is receiving approximately $772,000 in sales and property tax exemptions. Additional revenues from the project will be added to an existing PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Taxes) agreement for the development

Application Accepted

The GCEDC Board also accepted an application by NY CDG Genesee 1 LLC (BW Solar) for a proposed 5 megawatt community solar project on Oak Orchard Road in the Town of Elba at a capital cost of $7.326 million. The project would generate approximately $518,803 in new revenue to Genesee County, the town of Elba, and the Elba Central School District over the proposed 15-year agreement. 

A public hearing on the BW Solar project is scheduled for Monday, May 17 at 10 a.m., as the project is requesting incentives of more than $100,000.

GCEDC Board to consider incentives for Elba solar project and 20 city apartment units

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors will consider approving incentives for projects proposing $13.5 million of new investments at its May 6 board meeting.  

Forefront Power LLC (Elba Solar) is proposing to invest $9.7 million to build a 5 megawatt community solar project on Norton Road in the Town of Elba. The project would generate approximately $518,803 in new revenue to Genesee County, the Town of Elba, and the Elba Central School District over the proposed 15-year agreement.  

The project also would fund a community benefit agreement for workforce development and economic development projects in Genesee County. Forefront Power LLC is seeking approximately $1.416 million in sales and property tax exemptions. A public hearing on the project incentives was held March 22.

Batavia Special Needs Apartments LP is proposing to invest $3.75 million to add 20 living units to an existing special needs housing campus on East Main Street in the City of Batavia. The project would increase the existing annual PILOT (Payment In Lieu Of Taxes) payment by approximately $6,000 per year for the remainder of the current PILOT.  Batavia Special Needs Apartments LP is seeking approximately $772,000 in sales and property tax exemptions. A public hearing on the proposed incentives was held April 14.

The GCEDC will also consider initial review of an application by NY CDG Genesee 1 LLC (BW Solar). The proposed project would invest $7.326 million to build a 5 megawatt community solar project on Oak Orchard Road in the Town of Elba. The project would generate approximately $518,803 in new revenue to Genesee County, the Town of Elba, and the Elba Central School District over the proposed 15-year agreement.

If the initial application is accepted, a public hearing on the project will be scheduled, as the project is requesting incentives in excess of $100,000.

The GCEDC Board meeting will at 4 p.m. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic the meeting will be conducted via conference and online at www.gcedc.com.

Tompkins Financial Corp. reports cash dividend and record first quarter earnings

By Press Release

Press releases:

ITHACA -- Tompkins Financial Corporation (NYSE American:TMP)

Tompkins Financial Corporation reports cash dividend

Tompkins Financial Corporation announced today that its Board of Directors approved payment of a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.54 per share, payable on May 17, 2021, to common shareholders of record on May 11, 2021.

Tompkins Financial Corporation is a financial services company serving the Central, Western, and Hudson Valley regions of New York and the Southeastern region of Pennsylvania. Headquartered in Ithaca, NY, Tompkins Financial is parent to Tompkins Trust Company, Tompkins Bank of Castile, Tompkins Mahopac Bank, Tompkins VIST Bank, and Tompkins Insurance Agencies Inc., and offers wealth management services through Tompkins Financial Advisors. For more information on Tompkins Financial, visit www.tompkinsfinancial.com.

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Tompkins Financial Corporation reports record first quarter earnings

Tompkins Financial Corporation reported diluted earnings per share of $1.72 for the first quarter of 2021, 224.5 percent over the first quarter of 2020. Net income was $25.6 million for the first quarter of 2021, an increase of 222.4 percent from the $7.9 million reported for the same period in 2020.

President and CEO Stephen Romaine said, "We are extremely pleased to start off 2021 with record quarterly earnings. Results for the quarter, when compared to the same period last year, reflected favorable revenue trends for all three business lines, including increased net interest income, increased insurance commissions, and increased investment services fees. At the same time, expenses for the quarter were down from the same quarter last year.

"Growth comparisons to the previous year are significantly impacted by the change in provision for credit losses from a $16.3 million expense in the first quarter of 2020, compared to a $2.5 million credit in the first quarter of 2021. The provision for the first quarter of 2020 reflected the highly uncertain economic conditions related to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic forecasts and other model assumptions relied upon by management in determining the allowance.”

SELECTED HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER:

  • Diluted earnings per share of $1.72 represents the best quarter in the Company's history, and is up 224.5 percent over the same period in 2020.

  • Provision for credit losses was a $2.5 million credit for the first quarter of 2021, compared to an expense of $16.3 million for the same period last year.

  • Total loans of $5.3 billion at March 31, 2021 were up $355.0 million, or 7.2 percent over March 31, 2020. Loan growth over the prior period includes a $370.0 million increase related to loans originated under the Small Business Association (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

  • Total deposits of $6.9 billion at March 31, 2021, an increase of $1.5 billion, or 28.4 percent over March 31,

2020

NET INTEREST INCOME
Net interest income was $55 million for the first quarter of 2021, up from $53.0 million for the same period in 2020, and down from $57.8 million for the most recent prior quarter. Net interest income for the current quarter included $2.8 million of net deferred loan fees associated with PPP loans, compared to net deferred loan fees of $4.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2020. There were no net deferred loan fees related to PPP loans in the first quarter of 2020. Net interest income in the first quarter of 2021 also benefited from lower rates paid on deposit products due to lower market interest rates.

Average loans for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 were up $377.3 million, or 7.7 percent compared to the same period in 2020. The increase in average loans was mainly in commercial loans, driven largely by PPP loans and commercial real estate loans. Asset yields for the quarter ended March 31, 2021, were down 84 basis points compared to the quarter ended March 31, 2020, which reflects the impact of reductions in market interest rates over the past 12 months as well as the increase in average securities and average interest bearing balances due from banks. While PPP loans were a significant contributor to average loan growth, increases in commercial real estate and residential loans were up 5.6 percent and 1.7 percent, respectively, over the same period in the prior year.

Average total deposits for the first quarter of 2021 were up $1.3 billion, or 25.4 percent compared to the same period in 2020. Average noninterest bearing deposits for the three months ended March 31, 2021 were up $540 million or 38.3 percent compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020. Average deposit balances during the first quarter of 2021 benefited from PPP loan originations, the majority of which were deposited in Tompkins checking accounts. For the first quarter of 2021, the average rate paid on interest-bearing deposit products decreased by 47 basis points from the same period in 2020 due to the overall decline in market interest rates. The total cost of interest-bearing liabilities was 0.38 percent at March 31, 2021, a decline of 54 basis points from March 31, 2020.

Net interest margin was 3.01 percent for the first quarter of 2021, compared to 3.44 percent reported for the same period in 2020, and 3.12 percent for the fourth quarter of 2020.

NONINTEREST INCOME
Noninterest income of $20.0 million was up 5.4 percent compared to the same period in 2020. Growth over the same quarter last year was supported by a 13.9-percent increase in insurance commissions and fees, an 11.2-percent increase in investment services income, and a 9.2-percent increase in card services income. These increases were partially offset by lower deposit fees and lower gains on securities transactions. Noninterest income represented 26.6 percent of total revenues for the first quarter of 2021.

NONINTEREST EXPENSE
Noninterest expense was $45.2 million for the first quarter of 2021, down $549,000, or 1.2 percent, from the first quarter of 2020. Salaries and employee benefits were relatively flat when compared to the same quarter last

year. The decrease in noninterest expense for the first quarter of 2021 was primarily attributable to lower marketing expenses, which were down $447,000 from the first quarter of 2020.

INCOME TAX EXPENSE
The Company's effective tax rate was 20.7 percent for the first quarter of 2021, compared to 19.4 percent for the same period in 2020.

ASSET QUALITY
Provision for credit losses for the first quarter of 2021 was a credit of $2.5 million compared to an expense of $16.3 million for the same period in 2020. Net recoveries for the quarter ended March 31, 2021 were $180,000 compared to charge-offs of $1.2 million reported for the same period in 2020.

The allowance for credit losses represented 0.93 percent of total loans and leases at March 31, 2021, down from 1.06 percent at March 31, 2020, and 0.98 percent at Dec. 31, 2020. Nonperforming loans and leases totaled $47.7 million at March 31, 2021, compared to $30.7 million at March 31, 2020, and $45.8 million at Dec. 31, 2020. The ratio of the allowance to total nonperforming loans and leases was 103.38 percent at March 31, 2021, down compared to 170.74 percent at March 31, 2020, and 112.87 percent at Dec. 31, 2020. Nonperforming assets represented 0.59 percent of total assets at March 31, 2021, up from 0.46 percent at March 31, 2020, and down from 0.60 percent at Dec. 31, 2020.

Special Mention and Substandard loans and leases totaled $185.2 million at March 31, 2021, up compared to the $90.0 million at March 31, 2020, and down compared to the $189.9 million reported at Dec. 31, 2020. Total Substandard loans and leases of $68.5 million at March 31, 2021, were in line with Dec. 31, 2020, and up compared to the $52.9 million reported at March 31, 2020. The increases in nonperforming loans and leases and Substandard loans compared to prior year, were mainly related to the downgrades of credits in the loan portfolio related to the hospitality industry, which was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Included in the nonperforming loans and leases and Substandard loans and leases are 12 loans totaling $35.5 million that are currently in deferral status.

During 2020 and 2021, overall credit quality has been supported by several plans initiated by the Company in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As previously announced, Tompkins initiated and participated in a number of credit initiatives to support customers who have been impacted by the economic conditions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. The Company implemented a payment deferral program to assist both consumer and business borrowers that may be experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19. As of March 31, 2021, total loans that continued in a deferral status amounted to approximately $195.6 million, representing 3.7 percent of total loans.

As previously noted, the Company participated in the PPP, which provides SBA borrower guarantees for lenders, as well as loan forgiveness incentives for borrowers that utilize the loan proceeds to cover employee compensation-related expenses and certain other eligible business operating costs, all in accordance with the

rules and regulations established by the SBA. The Company began accepting applications for PPP loans on April 3, 2020, and had funded 2,998 loans totaling approximately $465.6 million when the initial program ended. As of April 10, 2021, approximately 2,314 of these PPP loans totaling $300.8 million had been forgiven by the SBA under the terms of the PPP program.

In addition, on Jan. 19, 2021, the Company began accepting both first draw and second draw applications for the reopening of the PPP program. As of April 10, 2021, the Company had submitted 2,013 applications totaling $223.4 million to the SBA, of which 1,919 applications totaling $215.9 million had been approved by the SBA and disbursed to customers.

CAPITAL POSITION
Capital ratios at March 31, 2021 remained well above the regulatory minimums for well-capitalized institutions. The ratio of Total Capital to Risk-Weighted Assets improved to 14.62 percent at March 31, 2021, up from 13.62 percent at March 31, 2020, and 14.39 percent at Dec. 31, 2020. The ratio of Tier 1 capital to average assets was 8.89 percent at March 31, 2021, compared to 9.53 percent at March 31, 2020, and 8.75 percent at Dec. 31, 2020.

American Families Plan helps farms that stay in the family mostly avoid capital gains tax

By Press Release

Press release:

Washington, D.C. -- The American Families Plan includes critical tax reform to ensure that the wealthy pay their fair share of taxes in order to finance essential investments in workers and families, including childcare, nutrition, higher education and more.

One of those reforms is a change in the way capital gains are treated in our tax system so that, for people making over $1 million, the tax system no longer favors income from wealth over income from work. The plan won’t raise taxes on anyone making less than $400,000 a year.

Part of this plan to make sure the wealthy pay their fair share is a proposal to close the “stepped-up basis” loophole for wealthy estates so that enormous fortunes do not completely escape taxation. Under the proposal, unrealized capital gains (those that have never been previously taxed) are taxed at death above $2 million in gains per couple. But this won’t affect family farms that stay in the family.

  • Under this proposal, estimates indicate more than 98 percent of farm estates will not owe any tax at transfer, provided the farm stays in the family. The tax the remaining less than 2 percent would owe, would be on their non-farm assets.
The President recognizes the importance of agriculture and family farms to the American economy and way of life. He also recognizes the risks and economic challenges unique to agriculture, family farms and ranching operations across America. The Biden Administration is committed to American agriculture, family farms, ranches and the rural way of life.

The American Families Plan protects family farms and ranches in two key ways:

  • No capital gains taxes at death for family farms. This plan includes a special protection for family-owned farms and businesses. It defers any tax liability on family farms as long as the farm remains family-owned and operated. No tax is due if the farm stays in the family. No one should have to sell a family farm they inherit to pay taxes and the President’s tax reform guarantees that.
  • $2 million exclusion from increased capital gains for all married couples. This plan also excludes the first $2 million of gains per couple ($2.5 million if the farm also includes the family home) from capital gains tax and heirs continue to get step up in basis on those first $2 million in gains. If an heir decides to sell the family farm, the first $2 million in gains is tax free.

How the President’s Capital Gains Reforms Affect Family Farms:

  • A married couple with $900,000 of farm gains and $200,000 of non-farm gains passes the farm onto their children. No capital gains taxes are owed, even if they sell the farm because the $1.1 million in gains are below the $2 million per-couple exemption.
  • A married couple with $3 million of farm gains and $250,000 of non-farm housing gains passes the farm onto their children. No taxes due as long as the children keep the family farm.

The President’s capital gains reforms are a key part of building a tax code that rewards work, and not wealth. The American Jobs Plan and the American Families Plan are once-in-a-generation investments in our nation’s future.

The American Jobs Plan will create millions of good jobs, rebuild our country’s physical infrastructure and workforce, and spark innovation and manufacturing here at home.

The American Families Plan invests $1.8 trillion in our children and our families—helping families cover the basic expenses that so many struggle with now, lowering health insurance premiums, cutting child poverty, and producing a larger, more productive, and healthier workforce in the years ahead. Together, these plans reinvest in the future of American families, American workers, and the American economy.

To learn more about the American Families Plan, visit the White House.

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