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Milestones include engagement, wedding and birth announcements as well as job promotions, military service and similar personal accomplishments of you and your family that you wish to share with the community.

Genesee ARC custodial worker honored with statewide recognition

By Billie Owens
Press release:
 
A Genesee ARC custodian is among 12 Western New Yorkers with disabilities who was recognized through New York State Industries for the Disabled, Inc's. (NYSID) annual people-centered awards program. The honorees were announced today (Sept. 7).
 
In its 13th year, NYSID's Joslin Awards Program has recognized more than 650 Outstanding Performers.
 
The Joslin Outstanding Performer for 2016 from Genesee County is:
  • Anthony Bateman, Genesee ARC (Batavia), custodial

NYSID is a not-for-profit business with a mission of "Turning business opportunities into JOBS for New Yorkers with disabilities."

"NYSID secures meaningful employment for all New Yorkers with disabilities who look to Preferred Source opportunities to choose an employment direction," said Ron Romano, NYSID president & CEO. "In doing so, we salute the 2016 Joslin Outstanding Performers as ambassadors of the wide-ranging abilities of New York State's workforce."
 
The honorees will be recognized during NYSID's Annual Meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 21 at The Saratoga Hilton in Saratoga Springs.
 
Established in 1975, NYSID is a registered 501(c)(3) Not for Profit which creates employment opportunities for nearly 7,000 New Yorkers with disabilities annually through New York's Preferred Source Program. NYSID's community rehabilitation member agencies and private sector business partners are located throughout the state, providing jobs in the community and in production facilities. For more information, visit http://www.nysid.org.

Catholic Charities Home Visitation Program staff member retires after six years

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo.

Press release:

Linda Doll, pictured left, a staff member with Catholic Charities Home Visitation Program in Genesee County, is retiring after six years of dedication to older adults and volunteers. Doll will be missed, especially for the energy, organization and compassion she brought to the program, the people and the volunteers.

The Home Visitation Program, made possible through a grant from the Muriel H. Marshall Fund for the Aging, provides weekly visits to homebound older adults in Genesee County who are 60 years of age or older with a limited ability to get out of their homes. Goals of the visits are to bring a sense of social connectivity and friendship to both the program member and volunteers.

Program volunteers make a weekly visit to the home of an older adult, stay connected with the client's loved ones and help participate in hobbies and crafts. Volunteers often find a rich sense of fulfillment with the knowledge they are reaching out to someone in friendship.

Doll, who is retiring and moving closer to family members, said, “This is the only job I’ve had that I absolutely love! I love hearing the stories our clients have about their lives. It’s such a great feeling to see the happiness in the face of our clients when we match them up with a visitor who really cares about them. There are so many lonely seniors in our county and this program is so worthwhile.”

Indicative of her caring approach was a recent incident that played out the day before Linda was to go on vacation: A volunteer called to say that the senior she visits wasn’t answering her phone. Staff was concerned about the extreme heat of the recent days so Doll quickly said, “I’ll go check on her.” She was about to call 9-1-1 when the door opened. The elderly member was OK but her phone was out of order and, after calling the phone company, it appeared her phone wasn’t working. Because the senior had no one else locally to rely on, Linda went out, purchased a new phone and waited to be sure it was working before returning to complete her own work. 

Doll also praised the volunteers, “We have such wonderful volunteers who give their time and friendship.”

She expressed appreciation for the community partners with whom she has worked. 

“I’ve also enjoyed, and been so grateful for, the opportunity to work with staff at the Office of the Aging, VA Home Based Primary Care Unit, Lifespan, Sage, Handyman and RSVP programs.”  

Home Visitation services are provided free to older adults, along with linkage and referrals to agencies that offer other services. The program has a flexible visitation schedule and all volunteers are screened, trained and supervised. The program also is available in Orleans County.

For more information, to express interest in receiving visits or to learn more about becoming a volunteer in Genesee or Orleans counties, please call (585) 343-0614.

Services for all ages, including individual and family counseling and emergency assistance, are provided in Genesee County at 25 Liberty St., Suite 7, in Batavia. 

As the most comprehensive human service provider in Western New York, Catholic Charities served nearly 132,000 people in need in 2015. For 93 years, Catholic Charities has been making a difference for people of every faith and ethnicity in Western New York. Catholic Charities empowers individuals, children and families to achieve meaningful, healthy and productive lives. Catholic Charities is an excellent steward of the contributions that it receives, attaining the highest rating (four stars) from Charity Navigator and the 2015 Torch Award for Philanthropic Excellence from the Better Business Bureau Foundation of Upstate New York. The agency also receives highest rating from the Council on Accreditation for quality service.

Sharon Knaudt, of Batavia, and Michaela Hale, of Oakfield, earn merit awards from SUNY Oswego

By Billie Owens

SUNY Oswego has made merit awards to a select group of area students among the more than 675 transfer students who are starting at the college this fall.

SUNY Oswego's merit awards recognize students' past academic achievements and potential for success. A select group among the more than 675 transfer students received the awards. The Transfer Merit Award is $1,000 and the Transfer Achievement Award is $2,000; for deserving non-New York state students, the total award can be as much as $36,000 or $37,000, respectively, in combination with a Destination Oswego scholarship.

  • Sharon Knaudt, of Summit Street in Batavia, majoring in broadcasting and mass communication, last attended Genesee Community College
  • Michaela J. Hale, of South Pearl Road in Oakfield, majoring in Spanish, last attended Genesee Community College

The awards are part of about $5 million in merit scholarship money offered at SUNY Oswego. These funds are in addition to the more than $80 million in need-based grants, loans, work-study and scholarship awards that SUNY Oswego students receive annually.

A 155-year-old comprehensive college in the State University of New York system, Oswego enrolls about 8,000 students in its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; School of Business; School of Communication, Media and the Arts; and School of Education.

Visit oswego.edu for more information.

Wilkes University Welcomes Samantha Cecere, of Batavia, into the Class of 2020

By Billie Owens

WILKES-BARRE, PA (08/23/2016)-- Wilkes University welcomes Samantha Cecere, of Batavia, into the Class of 2020. Cecere is one of more than 700 students who make up the University's newest undergraduate class. Cecere's major is Pre-pharmacy GS.

About Wilkes University:

Wilkes University is an independent institution of higher education dedicated to academic and intellectual excellence through mentoring in the liberal arts, sciences, and professional programs. Founded in 1933, the university is on a mission to create one of the great small universities, offering all of the programs, activities, and opportunities of a large, research university in the intimate, caring, and mentoring environment of a small, liberal arts college, at a cost that is increasingly competitive with public universities.

Learn more at www.wilkes.edu

BHS graduates receive scholarships in building trades

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Batavia High School graduates Ryan Dibble and Jonathan Barber each earned a Batavia City Schools Custodial Association and Gui’s Lumber Scholarship.  Both received a $750 gift certificate for Gui’s Lumber to go toward the tools and materials they will need to start college this September. Both are attending Alfred State College – Ryan is in the Heavy Equipment, Truck, and Diesel Technician program, and Jonathan is in the Building Trades: Building Construction program. The BCSD Custodial Association began the tradition in 2002 of providing scholarships to deserving seniors who are pursuing studies in a skilled trade, and was joined by Gui’s Lumber in Batavia a few years later.

“We want to do something to enhance students’ careers and help them advance in their chosen field,” explained John Suttell of the Custodial Association.

Pictured left to right are Gui’s Lumber manager Scot Monachino, scholarship recipients Ryan Dibble and Jonathan Barber, and BCSD Custodial Association representative John Suttell.

Annual Stefani-Costa Family Reunion fun for all

By Billie Owens

(Submitted photos and information.)

The families of the late Baptist and Christina (Costa) Stefani, and Dominic and Johanna (Rigoni) Costa gathered for their 36th consecutive annual family reunion at  Mumford’s Freeman Park on Sunday, July 24, 2016. Both founding families made their homes in Lime Rock.

Christopher and Ann (Tracy) Publow, of Rochester, were this year’s event chairs.

After a cookout topped off with a buffet of cookies and ice cream novelties, there was a short business meeting. A review of family news since last year included:

  • Andrea Stefani, the daughter of Richard and Melanie Stefani, of Batavia, married Jacob Klos of Watertown on July 18, 2015;
  • Samantha Blake gave birth to our newest family member, Ryder Christopher Barclay, of Byron, on May 16, 2016;
  • Twenty-month-old Kate Aradine was the youngest in attendance. She is the daughter of Jeffrey and Bethany (Pocock) Aradine, of Bergen;
  • Bethany’s parents, Merlin and Marilyn (Costa) Pocock, of Bergen, were the longest married couple in attendance, at 41 years of wedded bliss;
  • Dorothy (Stefani) Bater, of Le Roy, was the oldest person in attendance, followed closely by Dolores (Stefani) Lathan, of Caledonia, who is one day younger.

Following the meeting, the family took photos, made spin-art paintings, pelted each other in a water-balloon toss, and tossed Cheetos onto the shaving-cream-covered heads of partners in a messy game of laughter and endurance (followed by cleaning each other off!).

Next year’s event chairs are Linda (Orlando) Totten, of Elba, Carol (Orlando) Panepento, of Pavilion, Gloria (Orlando) Oliver, of Le Roy, and Amy Panepento, of Le Roy.

Two local students named to Medaille College Spring dean's list

By Billie Owens

Medaille College has named the following students to the Dean's List for the Spring 2016 semester:

Justice Fagan, of Batavia

Mark Lancaster, of Bergen

Students that meet the requirements of a minimum of 12 credit hours and earn a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher for all credit hours carried during that semester are placed on the dean's list.

With campuses in Buffalo, Rochester, and Online, Medaille College (www.medaille.edu) is a dynamic, private college committed to serving the higher education needs of western New York. Medaille is known for its flexible delivery systems, offering master's, bachelor's and associate degrees through day, evening, weekend and online programs.

Le Moyne College names Kathleen Saville to dean's list for Spring 2016

By Billie Owens

Kathleen Saville, a senior Human Resource Management major from Pavilion, has been named to the Dean's List at Le Moyne College for the Spring 2016 semester. To make the list, students must achieve a GPA of 3.5 or above.

Located in a suburban setting on a picturesque 160-acre campus in Syracuse. Le Moyne College is one of only 28 Jesuit colleges and universities in the United States. Offering more than 30 majors, Le Moyne provides a values-based education that helps students explore their potential through academics, experience and service. In 2015, for the second consecutive year, Le Moyne was ranked by The Princeton Review as one of the nation's best institutions for undergraduate education, an honor achieved by only 15 percent of the colleges and universities in the nation. A Le Moyne education provides students with the intellectual skills necessary to succeed in the world and the will to use their abilities to promote a more just society.

Whitney Athoe of Batavia wins two scholarships from SUNY Fredonia

By Billie Owens
The State University of New York at Fredonia recently announced scholarship recipients for the 2016-17 academic year. Scholarships are made possible by private donors and foundations, most of whom made gifts to the Fredonia College Foundation. Among the new scholarship recipients is the following local student:
 
Genesee County
  • Whitney Athoe, of Batavia, a junior majoring in Medical Technology, has received the Woods and Earl Memorial Scholarship for $555 and the Biology Department Scholarship for $500. She is the daughter of Melissa Bowen.

RIT graduated 19 local students in May

By Billie Owens

Rochester Institute of Technology celebrated its 131st Academic Convocation in May. Diplomas were distributed to graduates following the event at separate ceremonies held by each of RIT's nine colleges and two academic centers. Local residents who graduated include:

David Belcher of Le Roy (14482), who received an MBA in business administration from RIT's Saunders College of Business.

Geoffrey Berl of Le Roy (14482), who received a BS in software engineering from RIT's B. Thomas Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences.

Benjamin Bliss of Pavilion (14525), who received a BFA in illustration from RIT's College of Imaging Arts and Sciences.

Maura Chmielowiec of Batavia (14020), who received a BS in mechanical engineering from RIT's Kate Gleason College of Engineering.

Edward Cigno of Le Roy (14482), who received an MS in mechanical engineering from RIT's Kate Gleason College of Engineering.

James Erb of Darien Center (14040), who received a BS in mechanical engineering from RIT's Kate Gleason College of Engineering.

Shane Hale of Corfu (14036), who received a BS in computer science from RIT's B. Thomas Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences.

Taylor Harkness of Batavia (14020), who received a BS in biotechnology and molecular bioscience from RIT's College of Science.

Eric Hunt of Bergen (14416), who received a BS in new media interactive development from RIT's B. Thomas Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences.

Dean Kubik of Basom (14013), who received a BS in chemical engineering from RIT's Kate Gleason College of Engineering.

Shannon Lajuett of Le Roy (14482), who received a BS in biomedical sciences from RIT's College of Health Sciences and Technology.

Michelle Lane of Batavia (14020), who received a BS in applied arts and sciences from RIT's School of Individualized Study.

Michael Norway of Elba (14058), who received a BS in chemistry from RIT's College of Science.

Joseph Oddo of Batavia (14020), who received a BS in electrical engineering from RIT's Kate Gleason College of Engineering.

Karl Pajak of Corfu (14036), who received a BFA in film and animation from RIT's College of Imaging Arts and Sciences.

Trevor Powers of Batavia (14020), who received a BS in mechanical engineering from RIT's Kate Gleason College of Engineering.

Jared Raphael of Batavia (14020), who received a BS in industrial engineering from RIT's Kate Gleason College of Engineering.

Michael Slack of Bergen (14416), who received a BFA in film and animation from RIT's College of Imaging Arts and Sciences.

Michael Wilmoth of Le Roy (14482), who received a BS in computing security from RIT's B. Thomas Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences.

Rochester Institute of Technology is home to leading creators, entrepreneurs, innovators and researchers. Founded in 1829, RIT enrolls 18,600 students in more than 200 career-oriented and professional programs, making it among the largest private universities in the United States.

Batavia recognized for Performance Management leadership

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The City of Batavia received notification this week from the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) that it will be recognized for its performance management efforts with a Certificate of Achievement from the ICMA Center for Performance AnalyticsTM.

Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. said “Providing the public with access to information we use to make decisions as well as monitoring our progress is a critical part of ensuring we are transparent in how we operate the City.”

The City regularly updates its Strategic Plan outcomes and performance management system on the City’s website at http://www.batavianewyork.com/office-of-the-city- manager/pages/strategic-plan.

City Manager Jason Molino added, “Over the past six years the City’s Strategic Plan and performance measurement system has been a great tool to demonstrate a use of the City’s resources, meeting service demands and improving our service levels.”

“The certificate program recognizes communities that have demonstrated leadership in continuous improvement and community engagement using performance analysis,” said ICMA Executive Director Robert J. O’Neill Jr.

“Performance analysis is an integral component of professional local government management, and jurisdictions meeting the certificate qualifications serve as examples for other governments to follow.”

ICMA assesses a local government’s performance management program and encourages analysis of results by comparing to peers and gauging performance over time. Performance management aids in cost reduction, program prioritization, and quality improvement. It also encourages accountability and transparency. Certificates are awarded at the levels of Achievement, Distinction, and the highest level, Excellence.

Batavia is one of 53 local governments being recognized across the nation, and only the second in the State of New York to receive this type of recognition. 

About ICMA

IMCA, the International City/County Management Association, advances professional local government worldwide. The organization’s mission is to create excellence in local governance by developing and fostering professional management to build better communities. ICMA identifies leading practices to address the needs of local governments and professionals serving communities globally providing services, research, publications, data and information, peer and results-oriented assistance, and training and professional development to thousands of city, town, and county leaders and other individuals and organizations throughout the world. The management decisions made by ICMA's members affect millions of people living in thousands of communities, ranging in size from small towns to large metropolitan areas.

About the Center for Performance Analytics

Center for Performance Analytics is dedicated to helping local governments use performance information to better the lives of the people they serve. The Center encourages the use and public reporting of comparative performance data in a positive, continuous-learning environment in order to foster organizational cultures that deliver results that matter. For more information on the center, please visit: www.icma.org/performanceinsights

Alexander resident promoted to bank officer at Tompkins Bank of Castile

By Billie Owens

LE ROY, NY – Darlene Raines has been promoted to officer at Tompkins Bank of Castile.

She has been in the banking industry for over 31 years and with Tompkins over nine years. She currently serves as the assistant branch manager in the Le Roy office.

“Darlene is an experienced banker with extensive financial skills,” said Diane Torcello, senior vice president, community banking manager. “Tompkins and the Le Roy community benefit from her expertise.”

Raines is a member of Resurrection Parish, Catholic Daughters, the YWCA and a graduate of Leadership Genesee. She has her notary certification as well as Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NLMS).

She resides in Alexander with her husband, Kevin. They have three children and seven grandchildren.

Tompkins Bank of Castile is a community bank with 16 offices in the five-county western New York region. Services include complete lines of consumer deposit accounts and loans, business accounts and loans, and leasing.

In addition, insurance is offered through an affiliate company, Tompkins Insurance Agencies, wealth management, trust and investment services are provided through Tompkins Financial Advisors.

Further information about the bank is available on its website, www.bankofcastile.com.

GC Sheriff's Office hires new deputy, graduated 'Top Gun' in his class

By Billie Owens

Photo, from left: Sheriff Gary T. Maha, Deputy Robert C. Henning, Chief Deputy-Road Patrol -- Gordon L. Dibble, and Chaplain Allen A. Werk.
 

Submitted photo and press release:

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office has filled a vacant Deputy Sheriff position with the hiring of Robert C. Henning. Deputy Henning recently graduated from the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy at Niagara University on July 1 and was awarded "Top Gun" in his class. The keynote speaker at the graduation was New York State Senator Robert G. Ortt.

Deputy Henning is a 2010 graduate of Batavia High School. Following high school, he attended Buffalo State College where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice in 2015. Deputy Henning was previously employed by the Batavia Downs Gaming Facility as a security guard and is a third-generation law enforcement officer. His father is a retired City of Batavia Police Officer, and his grandfather is a retired Orchard Park Police Officer.

Sheriff Gary Maha stated, “Deputy Henning is currently participating in our 14-week field training program and is a great addition to our road patrol.”

Summer Kick Off Classic Horse Show a hit with exhibitors, says GC Ag Society

By Billie Owens

Press release:

An inaugural series of three shows recently sponsored by the Genesee County Agricultural Society was a big success for organizers and exhibitors alike, according to the Genesee County Agriculture Society.

The Summer Kick Off Classic Horse Show series was held at the Genesee County Fairgrounds, on Route 5 in Batavia. Exhibitors came from all over Western New York and as far as Auburn, Grand Island, Franklinville and Angola.

Attendance at the first show, held on Father’s Day, was good, but not as good as what would follow on the July 4th holiday weekend. Shows held on July 2nd and 3rd made for the first-ever two-day open horse show to be held at the fairgrounds. Ample parking, camper hookups and superb food service kept exhibitors and spectators happy, while excellent footing and roomy box stalls in a bright and airy barn kept the horses content.  

Generous show sponsors helped organizers provide fantastic prizes, including series end Grand Champion belt buckles. Vendors provided a great shopping experience during the show as well, with giftware, tack and grooming products available for purchase. A professional show photographer was on the grounds and did an excellent job capturing beautiful memories for exhibitors. 

Professional judges, unique prizes, and friendly office staff helped to make the series a success. Before the shows were even complete, local trainers and exhibitors were asking for more dates to be added to the calendar.

The Genesee County Agricultural Society members, all volunteers, have worked hard at upkeep and improvements at the grounds. Next year’s shows promise to be even better, with more upgrades to facilities in the works. If you didn’t join us this year, plan on adding a trip to the shows next year. And if you did join us this year, we’re glad you came and thank you for your support and sportsmanship -- you made the shows the grand success that they were! 

For more event highlights, to view the professional photos taken at the show, and to keep informed about future events, be sure to “like” Summer Kick Off Classic Horse Show” on Facebook and/or provide your contact information to boldt2@yahoo.com.

Award Highlights:

Series Grand Champion Open:  Dona Scharping, Serenity Lonesome Cruz

Series Reserve Grand Champion Open:  Selah Lowery, Another Legacy

 

Series Grand Champion Open Walk-Jog/Trot:  Tammy Gavenda, LGF Just Too Ironic

Reserve:  Denise Willard, Lopin Loud & Lazy

 

Series Grand Champion Youth:  Emily Boldt, Zips Roan Ranger

Reserve:  Kailey Kalet, Inspired to Win

 

Series Grand Champion Youth Walk Jog/Trot:  Miranda Gallo, JDS Jackie B Smooth

Reserve:  Samuel Grimmelt, Too Easy to Zip

 

Champion English Horse:  Inspired to Win, Kailey Kalet

Champion Western Horse:  Serenity Lonesome Cruz, Dona Scharping

Super Horse:  JDS Jackie B Smooth

Sportsmanship Award:  Tim Jones, Two Eyed Te Catalina

 

Sweepstakes Winners:

Hunter Under Saddle:  Inspired to Win, Kailey Kalet

English Pleasure:   Mocha, Lizzie Storm

Walk-Trot English Pleasure:  Rosabelle, Charlotte Saraceni

Ranch Riding:  Gretas Red Jet, Emma Klaver

Western Pleasure:  Zips Roan Ranger, Emily Boldt

Trail:  Zips Roan Ranger, Emily Boldt

Walk Jog/Trot Trail:  Lopin Loud N Lazy, Denise Willard

Walk Jog Western Pleasure:  Gotta Be Him, Paige Klotzbach

Showmanship:  I Wanna Rock, Cassy Platko

Genesee Community College names 314 students to Spring 2016 dean’s list

By Billie Owens

Genesee Community College, including all seven campus locations in Batavia, Albion, Arcade, Dansville, Lima, Medina and Warsaw, proudly announces the following are among 314 full- and part-time students who were named to the dean's list for the Spring 2016 semester. Students honored on the dean's list have earned a quality point index of 3.50 to 3.74.

This year's Genesee Community College Spring 2016 dean's list honorees, with their hometowns, are:

Heather Bombard, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Heather Volpe, a resident of Elba, NY 14058

Amber Hutchings, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Jessica Caryl, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Jennifer Piazza, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Matthew Bridger, a resident of Basom, NY 14013

McKenna Ford, a resident of Alexander, NY 14005

Andrea Pugliese, a resident of Darien Center, NY 14040

Branden Riggs, a resident of Alexander, NY 14005

Richard Gutowski, a resident of Corfu, NY 14036

Alyssa Baiocco, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Chelsea Bishop, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Matthew Dobbertin, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Christen Ferraro, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Emma Francis, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Zachary Hoy, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Nathaniel Kabel, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

John LaFarnara, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Tayler Mitchell, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Carly Scott, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Natalie Sharpe, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Valerie Stephens, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Brandon Corcoran, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Rachel Cosimeno, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Courtney Fisher, a resident of Batavia, NY 14021

Kristy Gallo, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Bailey Paserk, a resident of Batavia, NY 14021

Katelyn Richenberg, a resident of Stafford, NY 14143

Maria Ross, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Julie Cultrara, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Alison Diskin, a resident of Le Roy, NY 14482

Emily Reese, a resident of Le Roy, NY 14482

Philip Vigneri, a resident of Elba, NY 14058

Kyle Dougherty, a resident of Bergen, NY 14416

Abigail Noeth, a resident of Byron, NY 14422

Kyley Pascarella, a resident of Byron, NY 14422

Lauren Hughes, a resident of Elba, NY 14058

Sheena Mest, a resident of Byron, NY 14422

Nathan Reiner, a resident of Bergen, NY 14416

Sierra Bosdyk, a resident of Pavilion, NY 14525

Dawn Wylie, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Zachary Franclemont, a resident of Corfu, NY 14036

Zoey Ransom, a resident of Corfu, NY 14036

Adam Sewar, a resident of Elba, NY 14058

Carley Sformo, a resident of Corfu, NY 14036

Kodian Becker, a resident of Darien Center, NY 14040

Sarah Wolcott, a resident of Byron, NY 14422

Evan Cole, a resident of Oakfield, NY 14125

Melissa Engle, a resident of Elba, NY 14058

Scott Ligon, a resident of Elba, NY 14058

Patrick Delude, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Michele Mandel, a resident of Basom, NY 14013

Wade Webster, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Samuel Freeman, a resident of Darien Center, NY 14040

Jessica Bonin, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

James Hamler, a resident of Le Roy, NY 14482

Brooke Ortiz, a resident of Le Roy, NY 14482

Alex Brownlie, a resident of Basom, NY 14013

Kasey Edgerton, a resident of Oakfield, NY 14125

Aspen Moyer, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Mia Velletta, a resident of Oakfield, NY 14125

Michelle Rushok, a resident of Batavia, NY 14020

Todd Schrauger Jr, a resident of Oakfield, NY 14125

Veronica Rizzo, a resident of Le Roy, NY 14482

Gina Johnson, a resident of Bergen, NY 14416

Stephen Coast, a resident of Basom, NY 14013

Laurie Yaskulski, a resident of Le Roy, NY 14482

Sarah Corcimiglia, a resident of Bergen, NY 14416

Elisabeth Haas, a resident of Elba, NY 14058

The College also maintains President's and Provost's Lists comprised of students who earned quality point index of 3.75 (roughly equivalent to an A) or better. These other GCC honorees are announced separately. Go to the College's website at www.genesee.edu.

Genesee Community College offers over 65 academic programs and certificates, including the new Nanotechnology AAS, which studies on a microscopic scale and atomic level leading to jobs in biology, chemistry, electrical engineering, medicine and also careers in burgeoning photovoltaics.

Genesee is accessible through seven campus locations throughout Western New York, as well as through its online learning program. College housing is available at College Village, just a three-minute walk from the Batavia Campus. With small class sizes, yet state-of-the-art technology both inside and out of the classroom, Genesee Community College is known for being "high-tech" and "high-touch." The 2016 semester begins Aug. 22.

For further information about all of GCC's opportunities, go to www.genesee.edu.

Two local students earn dean’s list recognition at Norwich University

By Billie Owens

The following students from your readership area have been recognized on the dean’s list at Norwich University for the spring 2016 semester:

* James Alexander Spear, of Batavia 

* Jake Hunter Nichols, of Batavia

Norwich University is a diversified academic institution that educates traditional-age students and adults in a Corps of Cadets and as civilians. Norwich offers a broad selection of traditional and distance-learning programs culminating in Baccalaureate and Graduate Degrees. Norwich University was founded in 1819 by Captain Alden Partridge of the Army and is the oldest private military college in the United States of America. Norwich is one of our nation's six senior military colleges and the birthplace of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC).
www.norwich.edu

Nine local students honored for dean's list achievement at Daemen College

By Billie Owens

Daemen College Dean Michael Brogan, Ed.D., announces the following students achieved dean's list status at Daemen College for the Spring 2015 semester.

* Sarah Loranty, of Alexander
* Nicole Fore, of Batavia 
* Erik Moscicki, of Batavia
* Patrick Wrobel, of Batavia
* Adam Siedlecki, of Batavia
* Katrina Stork, of Batavia 
* Emily Graham, of Le Roy 
* Allison Bartholomew, of Oakfield
* Morgan Zakes, of Oakfield

A matriculated undergraduate student who attains a grade-point average of 3.30 or better in any one semester is eligible for dean's list status.

Seven local students make the spring dean's list at Buffalo State

By Billie Owens

Students who have completed at least 12 credit hours and who have a GPA of 3.5 or higher qualify for the dean's list at Buffalo State. We are pleased to recognize the following students who attained this honor in the Spring 2016 semester.

Raelynn Moskal, of Alexander

Mary Boerschlein, of Batavia 

Jessica Molins, of Batavia

Melanie Case, of Batavia 

Timothy German, of Batavia 

Joseph Babcock, of Corfu 

Jessica Page, of Le Roy 

Buffalo State offers more than 160 undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, professions, and education. Each year, more than 10,000 students choose Buffalo State for its broad range of academic programs, applied learning opportunities, affordable tuition, and its location in the heart of Buffalo's cultural corridor.

Graduate of Metal Trades Program at Batavia Career and Tech Ed Center awarded $5,500

By Billie Owens

Kevin Adair, AWS Section chairman (right), presents the award to Aaron Buckland.

Press release:

The Rochester Section of the American Welding Society (AWS) recently presented Aaron Buckland with a $5,000 scholarship that he can apply to the welding technical school or college of his choice. He also received an additional $500 cash award toward equipment or supplies for school.

Aaron plans to attend the Commercial Diving Academy in Florida to train as an underwater welder/diver.

Aaron is a recent graduate of the Metal Trades Program at the Batavia Career and Technical Education Center. Don Shuknecht was Aaron’s instructor. 

“Aaron is a fine example of a student who is committed to achieving his absolute best," said Shuknecht, a Metal Trades instructor. "His positive attitude and spirit provides him with a drive to achieve. I know that he will be successful in whatever he attempts."

Aaron is also a member of the NYS SkillsUSA Fabrication Team that will be competing in the SkillsUSA National Competition in Louisville, Ky., later this month.

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The Batavia Career and Technical Education Center is a school that is part of the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership. The Partnership operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties in New York State. 

Finalists announced in GCC's Outstanding Scholar Awards for Advanced Studies Program

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Twenty-four students from across Western New York were the finalists for Outstanding Scholar Awards in Genesee Community College's Advanced Studies program. The awardees were honored at a ceremony and reception May 24 in the Stuart Steiner Theatre at Genesee's Batavia campus.

Advanced Studies is part of the College's ACE Programs, or Accelerated College Enrollment, and allows high school students the opportunity to earn college credit from Genesee while attending class within their high school. High school teachers approved as Genesee adjunct faculty teach all Advanced Studies courses. Some of the most enterprising young students earn enough transferable Advanced Studies credit to enter their first year of college as sophomores. ACE Programs, in partnership with more than 50 local school districts, serves about 2700 high school students across Western New York each year.

The 24 finalists were selected from 129 semifinalists in the five subject areas of mathematics, science, social science, foreign language and English. As in years past, a committee of academic professionals from Genesee Community College selected the following award winners, listed by school within their subject areas:

ENGLISH

Noah Dobbertin -- Batavia High School (Genesee County) 

Kathleen Ferguson -- Dansville High School (Livingston County)

Jasmine Plummer -- Lyndonville High School (Orleans County)

Andrew Hollister -- Perry High School (Wyoming County)

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Lea Brown -- Batavia High School (Genesee County)

Abby Rice -- Kendall High School (Orleans County)

MATHEMATICS

Allison Herrick -- Pioneer High School ( Cattaraugus County)

Laura Karlnoski -- Alden High School (Erie County)

Luca Zambito -- Notre Dame High School (Genesee County)

Catherine Appleton -- Lima High School (Livingston County)

Xander Apicella -- Holley High School (Orleans County)

Andrew Hollister -- Perry High School (Wyoming County)

SCIENCE

Jaclyn Wallace Alden High School (Erie County)

Emily Sherman -- Notre Dame (Genesee County)

Xinyan Luo Lima -- Christian Schools (Livingston County)

Andrea Biernbaum -- Honeoye Falls -- Lima (Monroe County)

Meredith Patterson -- Albion High School (Orleans County)

Andrew Hollister -- Perry High School (Wyoming County)

SOCIAL SCIENCE

Ashley Dusza -- Alden High School (Erie County)

Madison McCulley -- Batavia High School (Genesee County)

Hannah Moriarty -- Keshequa High School (Livingston County)

Madison Greenwald -- Barker High School (Niagara County)

Kyle Thaine -- Albion High School (Orleans County)

Mikaela Nielson -- Wayland Cohocton High School (Steuben County)

"We look forward to recognizing our top students each year," said Ed Levinstein, associate dean of ACE Programs. "Not only are the students deserving of this recognition, but their teachers, counselors and administrators should be just as proud.

"They play a crucial role in helping us provide college credit opportunities in the high schools and these students have certainly made the most of them. My team and I are always proud to help students get a head start on their college careers while saving them substantial tuition in the process."

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