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Search reportedly underway in Ecuador for missing Batavia man

By Howard B. Owens

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UPDATE: Statement from U.S. State Department:

The welfare and safety of U.S. citizens abroad is one of the highest priorities of the Department of State. We are aware of a U.S. citizen missing in Ecuador. When a U.S. citizen is missing, we work closely with local authorities as they carry out their search efforts, and we share information with families however we can.

A Batavia resident with years of volunteer service locally and overseas, including the Peace Corps, is reportedly missing in Ecuador.  

Travis Sackett has reportedly been missing since Feb. 21 after going on a hike to the Imbabura Volcano.

Recently, he has been a volunteer at a farm in Ecuador.

The U.S. Embassy in Ecuador has reportedly been notified that Sackett hasn't been heard from since he left for the hike. Local search efforts began on Feb. 25.

The Batavian has been unsuccessful in attempts to confirm his status either through a family member or by contacting the U.S. Embassy in Ecuador or the U.S. State Department. 

Cassie Toulet-Crump has set up a GoFundMe page to assist his mother, Lucy Sackett, with expenses related to the search for Travis, including a reward. 

The GoFundMe page says Sackett's parents are offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to the safe return of their son. Donations will help increase the possible amount of the reward.

Word of Sackett's possible disappearance and the GoFundMe page has been spread widely in the community over the past 24 hours over social media and local email chains.

Today there are 21 new coronavirus cases in Genesee County

By Billie Owens

Data Update – 

  • Genesee County received 21 new positive cases of COVID-19.
    • The new positive cases reside in the:
      • Central Region (Alexander, Batavia, Bethany, Elba, Oakfield) 
      • East Region (Bergen, Byron, Le Roy, Pavilion, Stafford)
  • The individuals are in their 0-19s, 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s. 
  • Thirteen of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list.  
  • Three of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.
  • Fourteen of the new positive individuals are inmates at the Buffalo Federal Detention Center.

 

Orleans County received seven new positive cases of COVID-19.  

  • The positive cases reside in the:
    • West Region (Yates, Ridgeway, Shelby)
    • Central Region (Carlton, Gaines, Albion, Barre)
    • East Region (Kendall, Murray, Clarendon)
  • The individuals are in their 0-19s, 20s, 50s and 60s.
  • Two of the new positives were under mandatory quarantine prior to testing positive.
  • Three of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list.
  • One of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.

BCSD Foundation Apple Awards given to those who keep city schools spick-and-span

By Press Release

Submitted photos and press release:

The BCSD Foundation lnc.'s Board of Directors is pleased to announce the recent recipients of the BCSD Foundation Apple award. Each building’s Custodial/Maintenance Team was recognized on Thursday, Feb. 25 for their efforts in making each building safe and clean for all members of the school community.

Robert Morris/District Office

We would like to recognize Jason DeGraff and his team and all they have done to coordinate a successful and safe reopening for students and staff. It was an “all hands-on deck” environment at the start of the 2020-21 school year. From helping deliver meals, to cleaning, to maintaining the grounds and so much more, we thank you for all your hard work.

(Below, from left, Foundation Board Member Cheryl Kowalik, District Facilities Director Jason DeGraff, Foundation Member Bobbi Norton, and Superintendent Anibal Soler Jr.)

Batavia High School

We are so appreciative of everything Paul Miller and his team have been able to do to ensure we opened without an issue and have remained open for our BHS Family to come together in our own way. Between measuring for social distancing, moving classroom furniture, helping with procedures and cleaning, making sure everyone is happy and safe, this integral team has been like no other. Because of their processes and determination, we were able to start clubs and activities without an issue. The faculty, staff, students, parents and administration thank you for everything you have done (and continue to do) to make the 2020-2021 school year a success.

(Below, from left, BHS Head Custodian Paul Miller, two of his team members, and Foundation Board Member Dave Chua.)

Batavia Middle School

Prior to his retirement Fran O’Geen, and now Val Zinni and their crew have outdone themselves keeping BMS clean and safe. The custodial staff is very responsive to any emergency cleanups throughout the day and the evening crew prides themselves with sanitizing all the spaces. It is a pleasure working with this group of individuals. Thank you!

(Below, Foundation Board Member Dave Chua and BMS Head Custodian Val Zinni.)

John Kennedy School

There's so much that we are grateful for when it comes to our JK buildings and grounds team. There’s really no job, task, and request that they can’t handle and they always respond with a smile. Louis, Sherry, Mark, Frank, Tim, your energy and enthusiasm adds to our team at JK each and every day. You are each so important to the learning and teaching that we strive for with our students.Thank you for your dedication to our staff, students, and building while keeping us all safe and healthy. You are an integral part of the JK Family and we are lucky to have you! Thank you!

(Below, custodial staff member, Foundation Board Member Dave Chua and JK Head Custodian Louis Smith.)

(Below, JK Head Custodian Louis Smith holds Apple Award, flanked by members of his custodial team.)

Jackson School

Our Jackson custodians are top notch. Working in a primary school there are many “spills." Our custodians get called several times a day to help. During this pandemic, we have had to monitor and adjust. Our custodians have shown understanding when they go to clean a classroom and a teacher is working late. They understand and go back to cleaning that room later. They are always willing to help everyone. They create a climate where teachers feel they can ask for help and receive it. They always have smiles on their faces and are always willing to lend a hand. Our Jackson custodians are responsive to any requests. They make sure the building is kept clean and comfortable and this makes everyone feel welcomed. Thank You to Dave, Patrick, Jim, Dominic and Debbie for all of your hard work. It does not go unnoticed. You are so deserving of this award. Thank you! Congratulations!

(Below, the custodial team at Jackson School, with Foundation Board members Cheryl Kowalik and Bobbi Norton at right in front, respectively.)

The BCSD Foundation Apple award is given by a member of the school and/or local community to a Batavia City School District employee or volunteer. In the opinion of those giving the honor of this distinction, the awardee has gone above and beyond in their role and is being recognized by one or more people for these accomplishments.

Local artist, Mark Jensen, will be making each individual resin apple -- none will be exactly the same. If you are interested in giving a Foundation Apple award, please submit your nomination form and $75 (payable to the BCSD Foundation Inc., 260 State St., Batavia NY 14020 att: Allison Chua). Nomination forms may be found on our webpage.

Community members with questions are asked to email us at:  foundation@bataviacsd.org

NYS tax commissioner: get refunds sooner by e-filing, opting for direct deposit

By Press Release

Press release:

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance today reminded taxpayers that they can receive the refunds they’re owed up to two weeks sooner by e-filing their return and choosing direct deposit.

E-filing is safer, faster, and more efficient than sending paper returns through the mail. And you’ll receive your refund faster if it’s directly deposited into your bank account rather than mailed as a paper check.

“Combining the power of electronic filing and direct deposit is the most secure and efficient way to submit your tax return and receive any refund due,” said New York State Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Michael Schmidt.

“We strive to issue refunds as quickly as possible, and you can help by filing an accurate return and choosing to have your refund directly deposited into your bank account.”

To use direct deposit, simply check direct deposit on your tax return, then enter your bank’s nine-digit routing number and your account number. For checking accounts, this information is available on your checks; for savings accounts, contact your bank.

If you forgo the simplicity and convenience of direct deposit, make sure your mailing address is correct when requesting a refund check by mail. Any error can delay your refund.

Prepare and file your income tax returns for free

Free File software is now available at the Tax Department website, www.tax.ny.gov. Taxpayers with income of $72,000 or less in 2020 can electronically complete and submit their federal and New York State income tax returns online at no cost.

Nearly 255,000 New York taxpayers used our Free File software last year, saving themselves a combined $51 million in the process. To be directed to the free filing options, simply click Free File your income tax return on the Tax Department’s website. It’s easy, fast and secure.

To ensure you're not charged a fee, you must go to the Tax Department’s website to complete your return. You’ll save on preparation fees, prevent costly errors, and ensure that you receive any refund you’re owed in the most efficient way possible.

Check your refund status

Taxpayers can also quickly view the status of their New York State tax refund anytime by using the Check your Refund application on the Tax Department website: www.tax.ny.gov. It’s the fastest and most convenient way to know when to expect your refund. It’s updated daily and provides the same information available to our phone representatives—only without the wait!

You can also find out when your refund will be issued by signing up for Tax Department email alerts. Visit the Tax Department homepage at www.tax.ny.gov and select Subscribe under the Connect With Us heading at the bottom of the page.

Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary to hold take-out dinner, basket raffle and Easter items sale March 20

By Press Release

Press release:

The Salvation Army Women's Auxiliary of Batavia is sponsoring a Chicken and Biscuit Dinner, Basket Raffle and Easter items table sale on March 20.

The "cash and carry" table sale includes "brand-new" decorative items and children items for $1, $5 or three for $10.

This dinner is take out only from 4 to 6 p.m. or until sold out. The dinner includes mashed potatoes, vegetables and dessert.

Presale tickets for $10 each are available at The Salvation Army, 529 E. Main St., Batavia. Phone is (585) 343-6384.

Tickets are also available from Women’s Auxiliary members or at the door.

Winners of the Basket Raffle will be contacted by phone and can pick up the items at The Salvation Army.

Ellicott Street Road solar projects on hold pending receipt of additional visual documentation

By Mike Pettinella

The Batavia Town Board Tuesday night tabled action necessary to advance a community solar project on Ellicott Street Road – the pros and cons of which have been dissected and discussed by engineers, developers, planners and neighbors for the past year and a half.

Introduced in June 2019, the proposal from Cypress Creek Renewables LLC calls for placement of two solar farms on property owned by Don Partridge at 5117 Ellicott Street Road.

One, Trousdale Solar I, is a 5-megawatt array on 18.2 acres of a 65-acre parcel, and the other, Trousdale Solar II, is an adjacent 4-megawatt system on 19.6 acres of a 71-acre parcel of farmland off Route 63, southeast of the city.

Town planners at their meeting via Zoom videoconferencing last night were looking to proclaim a negative declaration for the State Environmental Quality Review, which deals with the projects’ combined effect on the land, and also to approve separate site plans and special use permits for the two tracts.

During the SEQR process, however, Steve Tanner, a planning board member, said it would be wise to get an updated visual impact study as he had concerns over the proposed screening of the layout from neighboring properties.

Cypress Creek representatives Jerry Leone and civil engineer Nick Hawvermale indicated that they had addressed the town’s request to mitigate any visual impacts by moving a portion of screening (trees, etc.) further south, closer to a neighbor’s property.

After hearing Tanner’s request for photos to be taken from the neighbors’ view, Leone asked Town Engineer Steve Mountain for assistance in obtaining access. Mountain said that would be possible, noting that landowners have been accommodating to the town on other projects.

With an eye on making this happen before the board’s next meeting on Feb. 16, Leone said his company is “prepared to move quickly.”

Planning Board Chair Kathleen Jasinski brought up tabling everything until the supplemental photo documentation was obtained, prompting Partridge, a planning board member, to advise that he had taken more pictures that day from the border of neighboring fields.

“I don’t know what difference it will matter getting up next to their house another 30 feet to visualize something that will be behind the trees that are on Folger’s (property),” he said. “And we have a presentation where they have the driveway and the trees on that. Now if you go to the other side of Folger’s with that tree line … it’s going to be the same kind of visualization on the knoll behind the Smiths' and the ARC properties.”

A motion to table was presented, however, with Town Building Inspector Dan Lang suggesting to “err on the side of caution” before Tanner reiterated his call for “a complete set of documents that show everything we are asking for” – views with screening and without screening.

Planner Jonathan Long supported that, referring to a question on the SEQR application that points to the solar farm being inconsistent with the character of the natural landscape and surmising that proper screening would mitigate potential issues.

Hawvermale took several minutes to go over the renderings of the two solar farms, making planners aware of the placement and types of screenings and buffers.

When questioned about the number of utility poles on the layout, Leone said that is within National Grid’s “purview” and leaves Cypress Creek little flexibility. Hawvermale did provide specifics, indicating that there will be five utility company poles and three others to be put up by Cypress Creek.

Jasinski said the town will contact National Grid to get information about the number of poles in writing, adding that the power company has permitted a fewer number on other projects.

Planners also asked about glare, with Lang stating that a study came back showing no glare at all on the site. Still, he is requesting further research because that is the first time a report came back with that result.

When voting on the proposal does occur, Partridge will be required to abstain.

In recent weeks, neighbors and others living on Ellicott Street Road have spoken out about Partridge’s plan, citing impacts on the land and property values, and questioning whether two 20-acre side-by-side arrays violate the maximum limit imposed by the Town of Batavia.

Previously: Ellicott Street Road resident challenges Town of Batavia's 20-acre solar limit as nearby project moves forward

Reminder: Pembroke Jr./Sr. high girls basketball team's 10th annual 'Shooting For A Cure!' is Friday

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

The Pembroke Jr./Sr. High School Girls’ Basketball Team will host its 10th annual Shooting For A Cure! event versus Oakfield-Alabama this Friday, March 5, at 7:30 p.m. in the high school gym, located at the corner of routes 5 and 77 (8750 Alleghany Road) in Pembroke.

Because of the current statewide COVID-19 restrictions, admission to the game is by school-issued passes only, with two immediate family members per player in attendance.

To date, Shooting For A Cure! has raised more than $152,000 and has become one of Roswell Park’s largest community-based fundraising events.

This year, the team hopes to break the $200,000 mark in total funds raised since the event’s inception, setting their most ambitious goal to date.

Donate / Support / Bid 

There are several ways to support this year’s mission.

The team is currently accepting online donations in support of Shooting For A Cure! To make a donation, please click here.

Currently Bontrager Real Estate & Auction Service has listed 20 Park Hopper passes to Walt Disney World that are up for bid. This auction closes on Friday, March 5th at 9:30 p.m., with 100 percent of the proceeds raised to benefit cancer research at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Insty-Prints of Buffalo generously printed raffle tickets in support of this year’s event. Countless donors have provided jewelry, newly released Apple products, Amazon gift cards, autographed sports memorabilia, gift certificates to local restaurants, themed-baskets, family photo sessions, and various hand-crafted items as raffle prizes. The YMCA of Batavia donated multiple memberships and Pesci’s Pizza & Wings donated an "Office Pizza Party for 12."

A limited number of raffle tickets remain.

To bid, click here.

Mark Lewis, local State Farm Insurance agent, has pledged $10 per insurance quote to Shooting For A Cure! for every auto quote completed now through March 31. This offer is for new customers only, so if you are not already a State Farm customer, please call (585) 343-4959 to request your “Quotes for Good” auto quote today (limit one per household). Please be sure to say you're calling on behalf of Shooting For A Cure!

In addition to details about purchasing tickets, event-related information is available here.

If you’d like to donate to this year’s event please contact Mike Wilson by calling (716) 949-0523 or click here.

WBTA to Broadcast Live and Food Trucks Will Rally

WBTA has offered an AM/FM broadcast of the game. Pembroke will be setting up a live video feed of the game.

Snack Shack Coordinator and Pembroke teacher Arron Brown has coordinated with local food trucks to set up a "Food Truck Rally" in support of the event from 4 to 8 p.m. The food vendors will donate a percentage of proceeds to cancer research at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Reflections on the Pink Game

Senior Serene Calderón will be playing in her fourth and final Shooting For A Cure! game this year.

“When I reflect on the Pink Game, what comes to mind is community, love, and team work," Serene said. "This game brings our community together every season, and we grow closer and more supportive of each other. The night of the game, our school is surrounded by love.

"You can just feel it, especially during the halftime ceremony. Shooting For A Cure! brings our team together; it gives us a higher purpose as we try to help those in need. It’s not about basketball that night; it’s about showing love to those in our community and supporting a cause much bigger than ourselves.”

Senior Emily Peters said “The most important part, to me, about participating in this event the fact that our small community makes a big impact. Since the inaugural game, each team—including all of the new members— looks for ways to widen the impact of the game. It’s been challenging for us this year to try and reinvent the way we host this event.

"It being our 10th annual, we wanted to go big and get creative, but with all of the current COVID restrictions, we won’t be able to have a packed gym or crowded hallways full of prizes; however that won’t take away from what’s most important. It’s about supporting our community, and we’re finding new ways to do that.”

Although this year’s event won’t have the characteristic congested hallways, capacity crowd in the gymnasium, jam-packed cafeteria, or halftime ceremony we’ve all become accustomed to, the team continues to pursue creative alternatives to bring the game to the community.

“The first word that comes to mind when I think about Shooting For A Cure! is the simple, powerful, and profound word, love.” said Matthew Calderón, Pembroke superintendent. “There isn’t a better word that describes what’s going on here at Pembroke in the days, weeks, and months leading up to this event.

"You can feel it in the building, especially on the night of the game. This entire event is fueled by love. It’s about selflessly serving others and showing everyone in our community that we’ve got their back when adversity strikes. The most important aspect of this game has only been further strengthened and enhanced by the current restrictions we’re facing.

"These new challenges will not stop Pembroke from trying to make a difference. It provides us with the opportunity to do something we never would have had the chance to do. Our mission remains the same, we’re just finding new ways to go about it. We remain hopeful that taking a more virtual approach will allow us to engage more people in a broader way, reaching those we wouldn’t normally reach."

Cancer Survivor: 'Entire Community Was There For Me'

Proud cancer survivor Diane Phelps said "We are truly a unified community that has been proudly working towards a common goal for a decade now. The most important aspect of this event isn’t about the dollar amount raised, it’s about the genuine love shown to cancer patients and their families. It’s an incredible feeling to know that no one is going through this alone.

"Standing on the baseline during the halftime ceremony for the first time as someone battling this disease was overwhelming. I couldn’t believe that I was living in that moment, knowing that my entire community was there for me. It was a wonderful feeling. When you know that your community has your back at times like that, it’s emotional and hard to put into words what that feels like.

"Pembroke is special and this game helps to model for all of the students, young and old, what’s most important in life. It’s a great way for young people to get involved and give back. The way that this team, the Pembroke teachers, students, alumni, and basketball families rally around this cause every year is inspirational to me. I’m so blessed to be a part of such an incredible community."

Photo: Front -- Karli Houseknecht (25), Serene Calderón (10), Sydney Johnson (11), Allyson DuBois-Rider (30). Back -- Isabel Breeden (2), Emily Peters (32), Nicole Von Kramer (23), Allie Schwerthoffer (14), Ariel Moss (50).

Lady Hornets beat Lyndonville on Senior Night

By Howard B. Owens

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On Senior Night, Oakfield-Alabama beat Lyndonville 58-39.

Danica Porter scored 15 points for the Hornets and Makena Reding scored 14. Porter hit five three-point shots.

In other girls basketball last night, Batavia beat Olympia 55-35 (click here for coverage).

In boys basketball:

  • Hornell beat Le Roy 57-52
  • Pavilion beat Mount Morris 50-39
  • Batavia beat Pembroke 72-40. The Blue Devils are now 11-0 on the season.

Photos by Kristin Smith.

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First ever virtual hiring events at Six Flags Darien Lake are this Saturday and next

By Press Release

Press release:

Six Flags Darien Lake, the Thrill Capital of New York, will begin the search for more than 1,500 employees with a Virtual Hiring Event on Saturday, March 6, followed by a second virtual hiring event on Saturday, March 13.

Applicants may apply and interview online for positions at the park, waterpark, and the hotel and campgrounds. 

“Safety is our top priority at Darien Lake, and that goes for our team members as well as our guests,” said Six Flags Darien Lake President Chris Thorpe. “Our new hiring process provides applicants with a safe environment from application to hire and all the way through on-the-job training.” 

The Virtual Hiring Event steps include:

  • Applicants apply online at https://www.sixflags.com/darienlake/jobs/ prior to the hiring event they plan on attending;
  • Applicants will receive an email to sign up for an interview time on March 6 or March 13, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; 
  • Once the interview is scheduled, applicants will receive a link for their interview; 
  • Interviews will be done in Microsoft Teams with groups of up to 10 applicants; and
  • Once hired, applicants can also complete some of their paperwork and training online.      

Darien Lake offers new rates for many frontline positions, starting at $12.50 per hour, for employees 14 years old and up.

Many specialty positions are available as well. A variety of positions are available including lifeguards, ride operators, cashiers, front gate ticket takers and sellers as well as positions in Medical Services, Security, Guest Relations, Accommodations, Retail and Food Service. Positions offer competitive wages, great benefits, and flexible schedules. 

Darien Lake offers other benefits including paid internships, in-park discounts, rewards and recognitions and flexible scheduling great for students, teachers, retirees, or anyone looking for a second job or a job that allows them to work around a busy personal schedule.

Darien Lake also offers unlimited theme park and waterpark admission for employees, free tickets for family and friends, exclusive Team Member events and more! 

Applicants who are unable to participate in the Virtual Hiring Event, may apply online anytime Visit us at https://www.sixflags.com/darienlake/jobs/ for more information.

About Darien Lake 

Darien Lake’s wide variety of entertainment and top-notch thrill rides has made it the Thrill Capital of New York since 1964. Located 45 minutes from Niagara Falls between Buffalo and Rochester, today the park boasts more than 50 rides, including seven world-class roller coasters, dozens of family rides, the region’s largest water park and a 20,000-seat amphitheater operated by Live Nation.

The park welcomes overnight guests in a wide range of accommodations—from a full-service hotel and modern cabins to rental RVs, and RV and tent campsites. 

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company with $1.4 billion in revenue and 26 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For 59 years, Six Flags has entertained millions of families with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com.

North Darien Bible Church debuts its free closet this Saturday: clothes, coats and shoes for 'all ages and sizes'

By Billie Owens

Starting this Saturday morning, March 6, free clothes are being offered at the North Darien Bible Church.

The church, located at 9762 Simonds Road in Corfu, has two rooms chock full of clothing, coats and shoes for all ages and sizes.

Your window of opportunity is from 9 a.m. to noon on the first Saturday of each month.

Don't be shy, come on down and take your pick!

Mark Your Calendar: And note that in a month, on Saturday April 3, there will also be the church's premier Easter Egg Hunt starting at 10:30 in the morning -- sharp -- for kids through grade five (age 10 and under).

Reigle hits 1,000 mark, pours in 27 as Batavia girls turn back Greece Olympia

By Mike Pettinella

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Senior point guard Mackenzie Reigle recalls the first basket that she ever made – a three-point shot after being called up late in the season as a seventh-grader. From that point on, she knew what she wanted to achieve as a Batavia High varsity girls’ basketball player.

“I remember being really nervous, but it was super exciting, my first point was a ‘3’ right on the side and I followed it up with a block on the other end. It was so exciting and I’ve always wanted to score 1,000 points since then,” Reigle said tonight after reaching that goal in the Lady Blue Devils’ 55-35 victory over visiting Greece Olympia in Monroe County League Division IV action.

Needing just one point to hit the milestone, Reigle misfired on her first two shots before taking a pass from Kennedy Kolb and sinking an 18-foot baseline jumper at the 5:07 mark of the first quarter. That gave the Lady Devils their first points – they trailed 5-2 at that point – and prompted the referees to call a timeout for her to pose with Coach Marty Hein at center court as fans and players from both teams applauded her accomplishment.

When play resumed, Batavia scored only four more points the rest of the period, missing 11 of 14 shots from the field, and trailed Olympia by a 9-6 score.

Olympia was up 14-9 with five minutes left in the second quarter when Reigle drove to the basket for a layup and Tess Barone scored on consecutive trips to give Batavia its first lead at 15-14.

The home team went on to score 10 more points – completing a 16-0 burst – as Reigle had a three-pointer and layup, Barone converted a pass from Reigle for a score and Bryn Wormley sank a three-pointer at the buzzer for a 25-14 halftime advantage.

Batavia stretched the lead to 28-14 on a three-point shot by Bella Houseknecht but Olympia, behind Taylor Jung’s 12 points, pulled with 10 at 37-27 heading into the final period.

Then Reigle took over -- sinking four free throws after getting fouled on drives to the hoop, converting a steal into a layup and going to her right hand (she is left-handed) to score from 10 feet out.

She then assisted on Barone’s hoop before Haylee Thornley scored inside to give Batavia a 49-33 lead with three minutes to play.

Reigle scored 27 points to raise her per game average to 17.9 this season and also had six assists, 11 rebounds, eight steals and two blocks.

A force on the offensive end, the 5-foot-7 Reigle is equally impressive on defense with her ability to steal the ball from the opposing point guard, establish position on the boards and block shots.

“I just try to read the defenses,” she said. “I know that with this team (Greece Olympia) a lot of them were weaker left-handed players so I took away their right side and it worked tonight.”

After the game, Hein emphasized Reigle’s work ethic and determination.

“When you’re with somebody as long as I have been with Kenzie, it makes it so special,” he said. “I’ve seen her sweat and cry and bleed through this whole endeavor and she wants it so badly. She works so hard; she’s always in the gym. She so much deserves this, and I’m really happy for her.”

Reigle joins Tiara Filbert (2015), Madison McCulley (2016) and former teammate Ryann Stefaniak (2018) as the only Batavia girls' basketball players to score 1,000 points in their varsity careers.

As far as the team is concerned, Hein said the girls were pressing at the beginning of the year – Batavia started 0-3 – but have learned to run the offense and trust each other since then to put together a seven-game winning streak.

“If losing those first three games of the season puts (us) in a position where we’re at now, then they were a really good three losses … as we’ve grown from there. The belief is there that if we’re going to do this (win a sectional title), it’s going to be all nine of us.”

Batavia has defeated Olympia three times this season and the margin was 20 points each time, including a 55-35 win on Feb. 17.

The Lady Devils host Our Lady of Mercy at 8 p.m. Thursday and close out the regular season at Greece Odyssey for a 2:15 p.m. game on Saturday.

The Section V Class B1 Tournament begins on Tuesday night, with Batavia expecting to host the first-round game at 7 o’clock. It is possible that Batavia, currently the third seed, will face Olympia, currently the sixth seed, for a fourth time.

Reigle said she has one more goal, and that’s to win a sectional title – something that Batavia has come close to in her varsity years.

“We’re hoping that it is this year … but we have to stay strong,” she said.

Photos by Steve Ognibene.

To view or purchase photos, click here.

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Photos, from top to bottom: Batavia team celebrates Mackenzie Reigle's accomplishment following the win over Greece Olympia; the shot that put Reigle at 1,001 points early in the first quarter; Bryn Wormley launches a three-point shot; Tess Barone gets inside position; Reigle drives to the hoop; Kennedy Kolb shoots over a Lady Spartan defender. Photos by Steve Ognibene.

'Odor of marijuana' apparently sets off fire alarm

By Howard B. Owens

A firefighter that responded to a fire alarm call is on the scene and informs a dispatcher, "the odor of marijuana smoke may have set it off."

"Copy," said the dispatcher, "odor of marijuana smoke."

Since we here at The Batavian pay little attention to fire alarm calls (99.99 percent of the time, false alarms), we didn't catch the location or which agency responded.

Mental health crisis helpline down, alternative numbers availabile

By Press Release

Press release:

Effective immediately the 24-hour Care & Crisis Helpline serving Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming counties is down and nonoperational.

In the case of a mental health related crisis or for information on available mental health resources in your community, please contact the numbers below, utilizing the number associated with the county in which you reside or contact 9-1-1.

  • Genesee & Orleans counties (716) 285 –3515
  • Wyoming County (716) 882-4357

UPDATE:

The Care & Crisis Helpline (585) 283-5200 serving Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming counties is back in service. In the case of a mental health crisis or if you are in need of additional information on your county's available mental health resources, please contact (585) 283-5200 or 9-1-1.

Batavia's new K9 patrol apprehends fleeing suspect

By Howard B. Owens

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         Dejon Smith

After a passenger in a vehicle stopped by a Batavia police officer bolted from the car at 6:01 p.m., Feb. 25, K9 Batu was pressed into service helping with his first apprehension of a fleeing subject.

Handler Stephen Quider and Batu started patrol duties together earlier this year. 

Taken into custody was Dejon. J. Smith, 21, of Rochester. He was apprehended after a brief foot pursuit. Batu reportedly located Smith behind a residence on Ellicott Street.

Crack cocaine and marijuana were recovered at the scene of the traffic stop and police report finding additional crack cocaine inside the storage shed.

Also taken into custody was Germayne D. Session, 27, of Rochester.

Smith is charged with: criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell; criminal possession of a controlled substance, 4th; burglary, 3rd; unlawful possession of marijuana, 2nd; tampering with physical evidence; resisting arrest; and obstruction of governmental administration. 

Session was charged with driving a vehicle with a revoked or suspended registration, unlicensed operation, unlawful possession of marijuana, 2nd.

Smith was turned over to Irondequoit Police Department on an unrelated warrant and Session was released on an appearance ticket.

LIVE: Police Reform and Reinvention Committee for Genesee County

By Howard B. Owens
Video Sponsor
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Police Reform and Reinvention Committee for Genesee County

Are you 55 or older? Genesee OFA's Aging in Mastery Program could be just what you're looking for

By Mike Pettinella

While they won’t receive a “master’s degree in Aging,” the men and women who complete the Aging in Mastery Program through the Genesee County Office for the Aging will walk away with knowledge of the behaviors that promote healthy living and a greater sense of well-being.

That’s the word from Jill Yasses, aging services specialist at the OFA, which is conducting – in conjunction with the National Council on Aging Inc. -- virtual and, hopefully soon, in-person classes for adults 55 and older.

“The goal of the Aging in Mastery Program is for participants to lead a healthy and happy life by focusing on key aspects of health, finances, relationships, personal growth and community engagement,” Yasses said.

The 10-class core curriculum covers a different topic in each session, she said.

Topics are Navigating Longer Lives, Healthy Relationships, Exercise and You, Sleep, Healthy Eating and Hydration, Financial Fitness, Medication Management, Advance Planning, Falls Prevention, and Community Engagement.

“Most of the classes include a guest speaker who is familiar with the topic being discussed,” Yasses said. “This program is interactive so the participants are very involved in the conversations, and there is no charge for the program.”

On Monday, the Genesee County Legislature Human Services Committee voted in favor of the OFA contracting with the Population Health Collaborative in Buffalo to deliver $4,000 in grant funding for the program.

Genesee County OFA Director Diana Fox reported that all expenses will be paid through this service agreement extension at no cost to the county.

Yasses said a virtual class just finished and another one is being set up.

“This class is normally offered in person but due to COVID we did a pilot program to see how a virtual program would be,” she said, adding that she already has started a list for those interested in taking the next class (date to be determined).

She said the goal is to offer an in-person class once COVID-19 is under control, but a third virtual class is a possibility.

“The virtual class is very beneficial to those who have difficulty leaving the home due to lack of transportation, a disability or even a caregiver who cannot leave their loved one alone,” she explained.

Class size is usually 10 to 15 people, but could be increased depending upon the interest level, Yasses said.

For more information or to sign up for a class, call her at (585) 343-1611. Click here to access the ADP website.

Hawley slams Assembly Majority for letting Cuomo off 'scot-free' and failing to rescind his emergency powers

By Press Release

A statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley:

“The failure of the Legislature today to rescind the governor’s emergency powers represents a rejection of the most minimal consequences for a governor who has demonstrated a willingness to lie about the gravest of matters to the people as a leader, and allegedly preys on others.

"While he really should be removed from office, it is unacceptable that our colleagues in the Majority are letting the governor off scot-free.”

Genesee County has 15 new COVID-19 cases today

By Press Release

Data Update – 

  • Genesee County received 15 new positive cases of COVID-19.
    • The new positive cases reside in the:
      • West Region (Alabama, Darien, Pembroke)
      • Central Region (Alexander, Batavia, Bethany, Elba, Oakfield) 
      • East Region (Bergen, Byron, Le Roy, Pavilion, Stafford)
  • The individuals are in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s. 
  • Twenty-six of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list.  
  • Three of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.
  • Three of the new positive individuals are inmates at the Buffalo Federal Detention Center.

Orleans County received four new positive cases of COVID-19.  

  • The positive cases reside in the:
    • West Region (Yates, Ridgeway, Shelby)
    • Central Region (Carlton, Gaines, Albion, Barre)
    • East Region (Kendall, Murray, Clarendon)
  • The individuals are in their 0-19s, 40s and 50s.
  • Three of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list.
  • Zero of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.

Top Items on Batavia's List

Tourism Marketing Assistant Position The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, serving as the official tourism promotion agency for Genesee County, NY is seeking an experienced marketing professional to assist in the overall Chamber tourism and marketing initiatives for Genesee County. https://visitgeneseeny.com/about/join-our-team
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Town of Batavia Court Department is seeking a part time as needed Court Officer. Court Officers are responsible for maintaining order in the court room and court facility during proceedings. Please send resume to Town of Batavia, Attention Hiedi Librock, 3833 West Main Street Road, Batavia, NY 14020. Complete job description is available on the Town web site or at the Town Hall Application deadline is April 15, 2024.
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