Thursday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on December 11, 2025
GCC Student Wins National APTA Outstanding Student Award
Genesee Community College is celebrating a major achievement as Rylee Yanklowski, class of 2025, has been named the American Physical Therapy Association’s Outstanding Student Award recipient — one of only two students in the entire nation honored each year.
Rylee was selected for her exceptional academics, clinical performance, leadership, and dedication to advancing the physical therapy profession. Her nomination was supported by instructors John Love and Christopher Amico, who praised her professionalism and compassion in both classroom and clinical settings.
PTA Program Director Dr. Christopher Caputi says Rylee stands out as an emerging leader whose commitment to excellence reflects the best in the profession.
Nominees must show promise in advocacy, service, and contributions that support APTA’s mission to improve health through movement. Rylee — featured in the November 2025 issue of APTA Magazine — represents GCC’s continued strength in preparing top-tier physical therapy assistants.
Her national recognition highlights both her hard work and the quality of GCC’s PTA program.
Le Roy Seeking Residents for Planning & Assessment Boards
The Town of Le Roy is now accepting letters of intent to fill openings on its Planning Board and Assessment Board of Review. The Planning Board meets monthly on the third Tuesday, while the Assessment Board convenes once a year in May for Grievance Day. Both positions are compensated and open to all Town and Village residents.
Letters of intent should be sent to Town Supervisor James Farnholz, 48 Main Street, Le Roy, NY 14482.
Buffalo Bandits Bring Energy, Inspiration to Batavia Academy
Batavia Academy got a major boost Monday when Buffalo Bandits players Zack Belter and Lukas Nielsen stopped in as part of the team’s PE School Program. Chosen from more than 200 applicants, the school welcomed the pros for an unforgettable lacrosse clinic filled with teaching, encouragement, and hands-on skills.
Students heard what it’s like to play at KeyBank Center, learned about the players’ journeys to the NLL, and picked up new stick-handling and shooting techniques — including a fan-favorite tip for scooping the ball with help from their foot. The gym buzzed with excitement as students practiced shots, took turns scoring on Nielsen, and enjoyed the high-energy session alongside teachers and staff.
The visit left students smiling and inspired, grateful for the chance to learn directly from the pros and feel seen by their hometown team.
Batavia Downs Plans Major Expansion as OTB Reports Record Revenues
Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. President and CEO Byron Brown told the Batavia Rotary Club Tuesday that the corporation’s top priority for 2026 will be a major expansion of Batavia Downs, including additional hotel space and a new conference and event center. Brown said the facility has hit capacity, frequently turning away events and selling out hotel rooms.
The Genesee County Economic Development Center has issued a letter of support, and Brown emphasized that growing the venue will help meet regional demand while strengthening Batavia Downs’ role as an economic anchor.
Brown also highlighted a record-breaking 2025, with more than $8.2 million distributed to 17 member municipalities so far. Genesee County has received over $173,000, surpassing last year’s total, with another $37,000 expected by year’s end. OTB is on pace to return $10 million to local governments in 2025 — a $3.2 million increase over last year.
Net win is projected at $90 million, attendance is rising across the region, and a state gaming tax reduction earlier this year will bring an estimated $25 million in added revenue over five years.
Western Regional OTB now employs more than 440 people, most from Genesee County and nearby communities, and Batavia Downs remains the county’s fifth-largest employer.
GO Health Schedules Early Intervention Meeting Dec. 17
The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments will hold their next Local Early Intervention Coordinating Council (LEICC) meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 17, from 3–4 p.m. at the Orleans County Health Department in Albion. Parents, providers, and community members are encouraged to attend, share feedback, and help strengthen Early Intervention services for infants and toddlers. Refreshments will be provided. For Zoom details or more information, contact Deborah Krenzer-Lewter, Director of Children’s Services.
Genesee County High School Basketball from Wednesday Night
In girls action, Perry topped Pavilion 43–27.
On the boys side, Pembroke edged Kendall 58–52, Batavia opened its season with a strong 67–41 win over Brockport, and Byron-Bergen pulled out a tight 51–47 victory over Attica.
