Tuesday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on October 28, 2025
Junior ACORNS Team Up with Firefighters for Realistic Rescue Drill at Genesee County Park
Joanne Beck with the Batavian reports, an 11-year-old Pembroke student says he was feeling positive after “falling down a ravine” at Genesee County Park — but not to worry, it was all part of a rescue drill.
Oakley Montroy and a dozen members of the Junior ACORNS program took part in a forest rescue training exercise Saturday with volunteer firefighters from Alexander, Bethany, and Byron. The kids acted as injured hikers while first responders practiced recovery and medical procedures — even using a Mercy Flight helicopter for transport.
Conservation Education Coordinator Claudia Nusstein says the drill was a highlight of the year, giving kids hands-on experience in wilderness first aid after months of outdoor activities.
Firefighter Brad Nickerson says the event also gave volunteers valuable practice navigating the park’s trails and using rescue ATVs.
Parents called the collaboration between Mercy Flight and local fire departments “a great learning experience” — helping kids build confidence and awareness in the outdoors.
Final Paving Set for Alva Place Lot at New Batavia Police Station Wednesday
Work crews will be paving the final asphalt layer Wednesday at the Alva Place parking lot for Batavia’s new police station.
The lot will be closed during construction, and drivers and pedestrians will need to use alternate routes.
If weather cooperates, pavement markings will be added later Wednesday — otherwise, that work will continue Thursday.
The City says the project will follow the most recent layout plan for all markings.
Pembroke Proposes 2026 Budget with Lower Tax Rate and Levy
The Town of Pembroke has released details on its proposed 2026 budget — and taxpayers could see a small break next year.
The Town Board is proposing a tax levy of $634,273, which is about $3,000 less than last year’s levy. That decrease translates to a roughly 43-cent drop in the tax rate, bringing it down to $1.43 per $1,000 of assessed value.
A public hearing on the budget was held October 23rd, but no residents attended.
The proposed 2026 Town Budget is available for review at Town Hall, and the board is expected to give final approval at its next meeting on November 13th at 6:30 p.m.
Henry’s Deli Hosting Fundraiser for Hope Center of LeRoy Tuesday
The Hope Center of LeRoy is teaming up with Henry’s Deli for another “Local Supporting Local” fundraiser today.
From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Henry’s will donate 20% of all pre-tax sub sales to support the Hope Center’s free family programs.
Organizers say it’s a great way to enjoy a good meal while giving back to the community — and remind everyone, a sub from Henry’s is so good, it’s “two meals in one.”
Possible Delay for November SNAP Benefits; Local Food Assistance Available in Genesee County
The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance says November SNAP benefits may be delayed due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. Benefits cannot be issued unless the shutdown ends or new funding is approved. SNAP households will be notified by November 1st on the status of benefits.
The Genesee County Department of Social Services reminds residents that local food pantries and pop-up distributions are available across the county. For details or assistance, visit 211wny.org or call 2-1-1.
