Tuesday News Brief
Written by WBTA STAFF on April 15, 2025
GCEDC Names Town of Bergen as Their Partner of the Year
The Genesee County Economic Development Center has announced that the Town and Village of Bergen will be honored as Economic Development Partners of the Year at the GCEDC’s annual meeting on Friday, April 25, at the Batavia Downs.
Bergen Town Supervisor Ernest Haywood and Village Mayor Joseph Chimino will accept the awards, recognizing their leadership and commitment to economic growth in the region.
GCEDC President Mark Masse highlighted major milestones in Bergen this past year, including expansions at Apple Tree Acres Business Park and support from Empire State Development for critical infrastructure upgrades.
Haywood credited the success to strong collaboration, saying, “We’ve created a business-friendly climate where companies can grow and create prosperity.”
Mayor Chimino added, “Economic development works best when it benefits both residents and businesses. We’re honored by this recognition.”
Registration for the GCEDC annual meeting is open through Wednesday, April 16. Visit the GCEDC website for more information.
BND’s Sammy Pies Honored at Banquet
Rhonda Pangrazio with the Batavian reports. If you were at last weekend’s BND United hockey banquet, you witnessed more than just a celebration of a great season—you experienced stories of unity, determination, and team spirit. The evening was filled with laughter and heartfelt moments, reflecting the deep bonds between players and coaches that make Batavia’s BND United hockey team truly special.
One of the evening’s standout moments was the presentation of the WDF Award to senior Sam Pies by the Wayne D. Foster Foundation. Sam was recognized not only for his athletic talent but for his outstanding character, leadership, and commitment to his team, education, and community.
Sam exemplifies the foundation’s core values: wisdom, determination, and fortitude—traits that Wayne D. Foster himself held dear. The foundation proudly honored Sam’s impact, calling him a remarkable young man and role model.
It was a night of celebration, reflection, and well-deserved recognition for an exceptional student-athlete.
Byron-Bergen Wins Pageturners Competition
Byron-Bergen High School’s Page Turners team has captured the Regional Championship title, winning top honors at the April 8 competition held at Pavilion High School. It marks the school’s first championship since 2018, though they’ve been regional finalists nearly every year since 2007.
To qualify, Byron-Bergen placed first in both the fall and spring competitions of the North Division, earning their spot in the championship round.
Senior Eli Kupfer shared, “It was cool to finally win regionals before graduating. I’ve been in Page Turners since elementary school.”
Page Turners is a competitive literary program where students read and answer detailed questions on 10 preselected books.
Advisor Laurie Penepent praised the team’s dedication, especially the seniors, saying, “They’ve worked hard, reading different books and collaborating to cover all the material.”
Senior Anna McLaughlin added, “This experience pushed me to read new books and compete alongside friends. I’m grateful to Mrs. Penepent for making it so fun.”
It’s a proud moment for Byron-Bergen—and a big win for the power of teamwork and literature.
LeRoy Ambulance receives Funding
Le Roy Ambulance Service is celebrating a major milestone after receiving a $350,000 grant from the New York State Dormitory Authority—fully covering the cost of two new emergency vehicles with no expense to the organization.
The funding allowed the purchase of a 2023 Ford Explorer First Response Vehicle, replacing a 15-year-old Chevy Suburban. The new “flycar” officially went into service on April 10, 2025, equipped with advanced technology to improve response times.
The grant also covers a new ambulance, identical to the 2023 model purchased through community fundraising. It will replace a heavily used 2018 Ford Ambulance and is expected to be delivered later this year.
With this grant and recent fundraising success, Le Roy Ambulance anticipates no vehicle payments for 5 to 10 years, freeing up funds for other essential operations.
Le Roy Ambulance, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, remains committed to providing high-quality emergency medical care while actively pursuing grants and alternative funding to serve the community.
