Press Release:

United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes is investing $45,500 to support two summer programs in Genesee County.

United Way is the second-largest funder for summer programming and is supporting more programs and youth than 2024. United Way is one of nine funders contributing to summer programs. For ease of applicants and to enhance funder collaboration, applicants were able to complete a common application with the nine funders.  

“When our youth have the opportunities to thrive, we thrive as a community,” said Robert De Leon, director of community impact at United Way. “We are deeply committed to ensuring youth have access to safe, enriching, and inclusive programming during the summer months. These programs are crucial for youth development, fostering social and emotional growth and combatting summer learning loss.”  

Programs were selected based on their demonstrated excellence in academic enrichment, social-emotional learning, arts and recreation, trauma-informed care, inclusivity, safety protocols, and outcomes-based evaluation.  

United Way’s Community Impact Fund, which supports a broad portfolio of nonprofit services and resources that strengthen our region year-round, funds these summer programs.  

2025 United Way Genesee County Summer Program Grant Recipients  

• Gillam Grant Community Center- Summer Day Camp
• Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council- Explore Art! for Kids

United Way’s annual campaign makes the work of the Community Impact Fund and these grant opportunities possible. To learn more and donate, visit unitedwayrocflx.org.  
 

Alabama-Basom Methodist Church, 1392 Lewiston Road, Alabama. Join us for worship at 10:30 a.m. on June 1. This week, our sermon title is "Love and Unity" By Celinda McQuistion CLM Scripture reading Acts 16:16-35 and Gospel reading John 17: 20-26. Come join us for Worship and fellowship after the service!

Ascension Parish - Roman Catholic Church, 135 Swan St., Batavia. We are open for Mass in the Church on Sundays at noon. We hope to see you there! 

Assemblies of God-New Covenant Chapel, 6690 Oak Orchard Rd., Elba.14058. We welcome all seeking a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ through His finished work on The Cross with The Power of The Holy Spirit. John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” If you want a small, close-knit church family and a place to make a difference, please join us. Worship Service is Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Bible Study Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and Thursday at 7 p.m. Contact us at (585)-757-6651 (585)-969-1528 or visit us on Youtube.

Batavia Assembly of God, 24 North Spruce St, Batavia. Join us for coffee in our café before our Sunday morning service that begins at 10:30 a.m. We offer "Movement Kids" (age 4 - grade 5) at 10:30 a.m. and "MVMT YTH" (grades 6-12) meet on Sunday nights at 7 p.m.

Batavia First Baptist Church, 306 E. Main St., Pastor David Weidman, where "Christ the Center, Love for All" is very evident to all who enter. We invite you to our Full Gospel Sunday services at 10 a.m.; The Thrift Shoppe is open Monday-Friday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., come and browse in our beautifully renovated space. Donations are accepted during business hours. You can also enjoy a light lunch at Lydia's Kitchen while you shop. Questions? Email: firstbaptist2002@yahoo.com. Call us at (585)343-9002.

Batavia First Presbyterian Church, 300 E. Main St., Batavia, invites you to join us for in-person worship on Sundays at 9 a.m. (Arise-relaxed with band music) or 10:45 a.m. (Sanctuary -liturgical and organ) or on Livestream via Facebook Live for both times at: https://fpcbatavia.org/  or https://www.facebook.com/fpcbatavia/videos/.

Batavia First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Road, Batavia. Our mission & vision statement:  “To be disciples, we must listen, learn, lead, and love our way to God.” Reverend Wayne Mort leads our worship service every Sunday morning at 10 a.m. in the church sanctuary. Childcare is offered for children birth-3 years old and Sunday school is offered for children ages 4-14 years old. You can also find the service on Facebook. We invite you to learn more about Batavia First UMC by visiting our website at www.BataviaFirstumc.com.

Byron Presbyterian Church, 6293 W. Main St., Byron. Pastor: Rev. Michael Fry. Musical Director: Laurence Tallman.
Worship/Sunday School at 9:45 a.m. We will participate in the first Presbytery Pulpit Exchange Sunday! Rev. Martha Mitchell, pastor for Lyndonville Presbyterian Church will lead us in worship, while Rev. Mike heads to York Presbyterian. Scripture Readings: John 17:20-26 and Revelation 22:1-5, 12-17 and 20-21. Message: “The new New York, the new Atlanta and the new Los Angeles ”. All are welcome!   

Calvary Baptist Church of Le Roy, 8703 Lake Street Road, Le Roy.  If you do not already have a church that you attend regularly, we would like to invite you to give Calvary Baptist Church a try.  It would be a pleasure to have you join us for worship and fellowship on a Sunday morning or at one of our other mid-week events. As a multi-generational congregation that enjoys our time together, our Sunday worship service typically includes singing a mix of both traditional and contemporary songs and hymns, a children’s message, and a sermon from the Word of God. Our Sunday worship service begins at 10:15 a.m.

City Church, 210 E. Main St., Batavia, invites you for our Sunday morning services at 8:30 and 10 a.m. with Kids ministry at 10 a.m. and Thursday evenings at 7 p.m.  Everyone is welcome to join us for worship and a message. We believe in doing life together and would love to do life with YOU!  You can also connect with us online at www.thecitychurch.com, through our Facebook page, The City Church, or our YouTube channel.  We do life together.

Corfu United Presbyterian Church 63 Alleghany Road, Corfu. Corfu United Presbyterian Church (CUPC) welcomes all visitors to come worship with us on Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m. in person or via our Facebook live stream led by our pastor, the Rev. Evan Wildhack. Our mission at CUPC is to connect with Christ, connect with others, and connect others with Christ. We offer children's Sunday School at 9:15am on Sunday mornings and youth group for 7-12th graders on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month from 6-8 p.m. The church also hosts the Corfu Food Pantry which is open on the third Saturday of the month from 9 - 10 a.m. For Lent this year, we are hosting a Lenten lunch on Wednesday, March 26 at 12 p.m. During Holy Week, we will be holding a special Holy Week service at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 17. Easter worship will be at our regular worship time of 10:30am with a breakfast preceding at 9:30am. For more information about the church, feel free to contact the church office by phone at (585) 599-6414 or via email at office@corfuchurch.org. You can also visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/corfuchurch. CUPC is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) 

Cornerstone Church of East Pembroke, part of American Baptist Churches USA, 2583 Main Road, East Pembroke. Our Sunday service is at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Glenn Bloom preaching. Bible Study is every Wednesday at 10 a.m. We are a small church and welcome new members. (585) 762-8721

Darien Disciples Church, 1951 Broadway (Route 20), Our worship service begins at 9 a.m. Prayer requests to Jerry at: jeromedmorrison@yahoo.com. This week, June 1, our sermon title is “The Love Prayer” led by Rodney Stringham. (CLM). The Gospel Reading will be from John 17:20-26. Come join us!

Discovery Chapel, 315 West Main Street, Batavia. Pastor Ingrim Green's services are on Sundays at 10 a.m. "Let's Talk Real Talk the Gospel For Real Life." Visit our website letstalkrealtalk.org for more information.

East Bethany Presbyterian Church, 5735 Ellicott Street Road, East Bethany. Our Sunday morning worship service is held at 10:30 a.m. and is led by Rev. Dr. Shiela McCullough. Visitors are always welcome. You can find out more information on our Facebook page or by emailing us at ebpresbyterian@gmail.com.

Elba First Baptist Church, 31 S. Main St., Elba, is open for the main service in person at 10:45 a.m. on Sundays. For more information about our church go to www.fbcelba.net. The pastor is Michael Davis. Email: office@fbcelba.net / Phone (585) 757-2722

Emmanuel Baptist Church, 190 Oak St., Batavia. Join us for our Sunday service at 11 am or come earlier for bible study at 9:45 am.  Free coffee and fellowship!  Pastor Tom is continuing his preaching through the book of Acts.  Debbie Prosser is leading the choir in lifting up a joyful noise to the Lord every Sunday with practice on Thursdays.  We would love to hear your voice as well!  Particularly we need ladies who love to sing to join the choir!  Can't wait to meet you!

EverPresent Church, 4 Batavia City Centre, Batavia(off of Bank Street). Pastor Jason and Pastor Michelle Norton Welcome you! Our hours are Wednesdays 6 p.m. midweek service. Sundays 10:30 a.m. doors open 9:45 a.m. Children's church starts directly following worship. Children's church ages are 5 to 11. Counseling and other appointments are scheduled through the church via Office Scheduling. You can view some of our messages through Facebook or YouTube -EverPresent Church. Our phone number is 585-297-3155. Visit our Website for more information for up and upcoming events. Our beliefs, our vision and mission. www.everpresentchurch.com

Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St., Batavia. We offer two Sunday Morning Worship Services. Both services are live-streamed on our Facebook page, Grace Baptist or view it on the web at: www.gracebatavia.org. The first service is at 8:45 a.m. (children's classes available for Nursery - 1st grade). The second service is at 10:30 a.m. (children's classes available Nursery - 5th grade). KidZone for ages 4-5th grade and Grace Student Ministries (Grades 6-12) meet on Sunday Evenings at 6 - 7:30 p.m. 

Indian Falls Methodist Church, 7908 Alleghany Road, Corfu. We have our worship service at 10 a.m. on Sunday mornings, led by Rev. Karen L. McCaffery.  This week's message is "Spirits, Ghosts, & Paracletes...Oh My!". To view our services online please go to our website https://indianfallsgmc.com/ for a link for Live Streaming. Join us for our 81st Annual Strawberry Social on Wednesday, June 25 starting at 3:30 p.m. with our Bake Sale, 4 p.m. Chicken BBQ, and ending with our Auction at 6 p.m.

Morganville United Church of Christ, 8466 Morganville Rd, Stafford. Your invited to join with us this Sunday at 10 a.m. as Reverend James Morasco shares his sermon, “Are You Happy Now?” The Sacrament of Holy Communion will be observed. Please bring non-perishable food for a donation to the Le Roy Food Pantry. Our God is still speaking church. Friend us on Facebook! or better yet, visit us Sunday.

North Darien Bible Church, 9768 Simonds Road, Corfu. We are open! Sunday worship service begins at 10 a.m. Children's Church classes are available for children ages birth through sixth grade, including a classroom for children with special needs. For more information, visit our website. You can also watch LIVE on our Facebook or YouTube channel. Join us from 9 a.m. to noon on the first Saturday of every month for our free community closet, full of clothing, coats, and shoes for all. (585) 547-9646.

Northgate Free Methodist Church, 8160 Bank Street Road (North Campus), Batavia. Life is made up of relationships — with our families, our friends, our spouses, and our kids. And while those connections can bring incredible joy, they can also come with challenges, heartaches, and questions we don’t always know how to answer. In our new series “This Is Us", we’re leaning in together to talk about navigating life’s most critical relationships — with honesty, grace, and a whole lot of love. Because God cares deeply about the people in our lives, and He offers wisdom and hope for every relationship we’re in. So wherever you are, whatever you’re walking through — this is us, and we’re in this together.

Oakfield-Alabama Baptist Church, 2210 Judge Road., Oakfield. Join us for Sunday School for all ages at 9:45 a.m., followed by our worship service at 11 a.m. every Sunday! Visit our website (www.oabchurch.com) for additional information about our church, our beliefs, upcoming activities, and past messages. Men’s and Ladies’ Bible studies also meet on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. on the church grounds. We look forward to worshiping and fellowshipping with you! Questions? Email Pastor Matt Ervin at mervin@tyndale.edu.

Oakfield Community Bible Church, 82 North Main St. Oakfield. This Weeks “Oakfield Community Bible Church”, Weekend Worship Service is at 10:30 a.m. With Praise & Worship Music by Keith Burroughs. The morning message by Pastor, Timothy Young; entitled: “Be Still, I Am God”.  Scripture: “Psalms 46:8-11” (NKJV). Our Adult Sunday School is at 9:30 a.m., along with “Sunday School through Age-16”. There will be a Time of “Fellowship” following our Worship Service! ALL ARE WELCOME!

Our Lady of Mercy (44 Lake St. LeRoy) & St. Brigid (18 Gibson St. Bergen) parishes; Parish Office - 44 Lake Street, Le Roy. Our Lady of Mercy Mass times: Daily Mass, Monday -Friday at 7:30am, Saturday 9:00am. Weekend Masses: Saturday Vigil Mass 4:30pm, Sunday, 7:30am, 9:30am and 5:30pm. St. Brigid Mass times- Daily Mass Thursday at 8:30am & Saturday Vigil, 5:00pm. View on YouTube and Facebook. Please visit the parish website (https://www.ourladyofmercyleroy.org/).

Resurrection Parish (St. Joseph church in Batavia). St. Joseph's Church masses are on Saturdays at 4 p.m. and Sundays at 7:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. Daily Mass, Monday - Friday at 8 a.m. Confessions are held at St. Joe's on Saturdays from 3 - 3:30 p.m. Vigil & Holy Days to be announced. Holy Name of Mary Site (East Pembroke) 8656 Church St., East Pembroke. Mass on Sundays 11 a.m. and Tuesdays at 8:30 a.m. St. Cecilia Site (Oakfield) 56 Maple Ave., Oakfield Mass is celebrated on Sundays at 9 a.m. and Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

St. James Episcopal Church, 405 E. Main St., Batavia. Join us on Sundays at 9 a.m. on zoom, 10 a.m. in the church building, and on Facebook Live. Links and the bulletin can be found on our website: https://www.sjecbataviany.org/

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 1 E. Main St., Le Roy, is open for in-person services at 10:30 a.m. on Sundays. Communion will be offered to people in their seats and will only include bread. We welcome you to join us -- either in person or online. For more information, visit our website.

St Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6188 Main Road, Stafford. In-person service, including Holy Communion, is at 9 a.m. Sunday mornings. All  Are Welcome. 

St. Paul Lutheran Church, Batavia, 31 Washington Ave, Batavia. This coming Sunday (June 1) we will celebrate The Ascension of Our Lord(Observed) The Sermon Theme: “Christ Ascended Is with You Always: Jesus comes among us today by His Word and Spirit, whom He pours out upon “the church, which is his body” (Eph. 1:22–23). In His Church, He blesses us with forgiveness, lifts us up in His hands and seats us with Himself “in the heavenly places” (Eph. 1:20). Our Sunday service begins at 10:15 a.m. and can be viewed 'live' on Facebook. Communion is part of every Sunday service. Men's Bible Study meets every first & third Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. VBS will run July 14-18, 1:00 - 3:00pm. Ages PreK - 6th grade are all welcome. This is a free event.

The Church In Alexander, 10540 Main St., Alexander. Join us for Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. weekly. For more information please visit our website at www.thechurchinalexander.com. We offer a Free Food Pantry for people in our community, please call ahead if you need items from our pantry. For more information on Programs and services please contact us at (585)591-1765 or by email at thechurchinalexander@gmail.com. Church office hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:15 - 11:15 a.m.

Trinity United Methodist Church, 75 Main St. in Attica, worships together at 10:45 a.m. on Sundays. All are welcome! Contact Frank White at uncleferter@msn.com for a ZOOM link or for prayer requests.

West Middlebury Baptist Church, 4950 West Middlebury Rd. East Bethany, Sunday service is at 9 a.m. Kids Club meets on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Youth Group (grades 7-12) meets on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. For more information visit us online at westmiddlebury.org.

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"Spiritual Connections" -- The Batavian will post updates to connect people with their places of worship, religious services, fellowship opportunities, and/or spiritual advisors, etc. There is no charge for this service.

If you have information to announce, please email: news@thebatavian.com

Press Release:

The Holland Land Office is proud to announce the next presenter in its Guest Speaker Series on Wednesday, June 11, at 7 p.m. Hofstra Law Professor Stefan Krieger shares the story of his great-grandfather's murder in Batavia in 1915. Yomtov (Jacob) Schoenberg was viciously murdered in his sleep while at home at 138 Liberty Street by an intruder who bludgeoned his head with a piece of scrap iron. Mr. Krieger decided to delve deeper into the case and has written a piece about it. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com.

Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for our monthly Trivia Night on Thursday, June 12, at 7 p.m. Get your disco balls ready and leisure suits on and test your knowledge of the 1970s. We promise it is more than just disco. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you plan to attend.

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next act in our Concert Series on Friday, June 20, at 7 p.m. Don Dwyer will be returning to play his compilation of songs in honor of the bicentennial of the Erie Canal. Come and listen as Don plays and tells "The Songs and Stories of the Erie Canal." Admission is $5/$4 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you plan to attend.

Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for the next presentation in our Java with Joe E. series on Thursday, June 26 at 9 a.m. Local author and former Air Force Sentry Dog Handler, Russ Benzin, will be sharing his recently published book, "The Amazing Skipper." Russ details his life through the dogs he called best friends throughout his life, including with his veterinarian wife Dr. Mary. The main focus though is his time with Skipper, who was his partner during Vietnam while he served as a dog handler in the Air Force. Admission is free with coffee and donuts. Thank you to Tim Horton's of Batavia for sponsoring Java with Joe E. for 2025.

Batavia’s flag football season ended Wednesday night with a 7-0 loss to CG Finney in the Section V Class C championship game. 

The Lady Devils gave up an early touchdown but stayed in contention thanks to a strong defensive effort.

Senior defensive end Kylee Brennan led the way with 14 flag pulls, including seven for a loss. Senior linebacker Alyssa Turner recorded five flag pulls, and senior DE Nicole Doeringer added four, three of them for a loss. Junior free safety Libby Grazioplene intercepted two passes, returning one from inside the 5-yard line for 33 yards. Senior LB and quarterback Jaimin Macdonald also picked off a pass and returned it deep into Finney territory late in the second half, giving Batavia a final chance to tie the game.

On offense, Macdonald led Batavia with 51 rushing yards on eight carries. Brennan added 20 yards on four carries, and Doeringer ran three times for 24 yards.

Batavia finishes the season with a 9-4-1 record. Coach Matt McCracken thanked the community for its support and for highlighting the team’s accomplishments throughout the year.

Moana, a "very friendly" and sweet dog went missing from Main Road on Tuesday and ran toward Angling Road in Corfu. She was last seen at 9 p.m. Wednesday crossing Route 5 near Crosby's.

If you see her, please contact her owner, Katie, at 716-548-0559. She may be skittish.

Photos by Kara Richenberg

Press Release:

The City of Batavia Police Department is asking for the public's assistance in locating Catherine Chudoba (white female, age 35, approximately 5' 5" and 140 lbs), a missing vulnerable adult who may be in need of medical attention. 

Catherine was last seen wearing a brown hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans in the area of South Jackson Street in the City of Batavia. 

If anyone sees or has information as to her whereabouts they are asked to contact 911 or the City of Batavia Police Department non-emergency number 585-345-6350.

UPDATED 7 p.m.: Catherine Chudoba was located. Batavia Police thanks the public for its assistance in this effort.

Press Release:

Pavilion Alumni Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held Friday, May 30, in the Pavilion Jr/Sr High School Auditorium from 9:30 to 11 a.m., and the public is welcome to join us.

This year's recipients are Terry Donegan Sanchez - Class of 1985, Marirose Torcello Ethington - Class of 1982, and Linda J. (Linn) Tytler- Class of 1965.

Terri Donegan Sanchez was a 5 sport athlete while at Pavilion, earning State Honors in Volleyball and Track. She attended GCC and Brockport State to earn her Bachelor Degree in Administration and a minor in Finance. After graduation, she began her career in Banking, which led her to a teaching career. She is currently a dual certified Business/Marketing teacher and Clinical Educator.

Terri is married to Roberto Sanchez and is the proud mother of Aaron and Alyssa Peoples.

Marirose Torcello Ethington, while spending her time at PCS participated in many clubs, Band, Chorus, AFS, Tower, and Press Club. She was also a member of the Student Council and recipient of DAR Good Citizenship Award. She attended SUNY Geneseo receiving her Bachelors and Masters degree. Following graduation she taught the Sciences at Camden High School, and coaching JV and Varsity Field Hockey and class advisor. In 1991 Marirose joined Genesee Community College teaching in multiple Sciences, showing her versatility as an instructor. She has also participated in many community activities, while raising her family, Marcella and Jared with her husband Gordon.

Linda J Tytler graduated in 1965 from PCS and went to Southern Seminary in Buena Vista, VA and earned an Associates Degree in Business. Earning her Masters Degree form the University of New Mexico. She has worked for Xerox Corp. in Rochester and Arlington VA. Her professional steps led to the US House of Representatives and US Senate, she joined the Gerald Ford presidential campaign coordinating scheduling with the US Secret Service. This led Tytler to taking a turn at politics, earning a seat in the New Mexico House of Representatives. This has led to many more honors and recognition for Linn’s career.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

Cub Scout Pack 6067 and Troop 6067 from the Corfu/Pembroke area recently completed a flag replacement project at Hillside Cemetery on Angling Road in Pembroke.

The Scouts removed old flags and placed new ones at the gravesites of veterans who have passed away. The retired flags will be properly disposed of in a ceremonial burning conducted by Kevin Volk and his son, Walter Volk.

Submitted photo.

Press Release:

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office will be holding its sixth annual Teen Academy July 7 –  11, at Genesee Community College. Posters and flyers have been posted at Genesee County Schools, and the June 1 deadline to apply is less than a week away. There is no charge to attend the academy.

“Partnering with GCC allows Teen Academy participants to utilize the college’s criminal justice facilities, which includes a 9-1-1 dispatch console simulator and a firearms simulator. This one-week academy is a structured program that affords students the opportunity to gain insight into daily responsibilities of a Deputy Sheriff, law enforcement training and to learn what a career in law enforcement entails. It is our hope that teens will build confidence while learning good decision-making and leadership skills,” stated Sheriff Graff.

Academy instructors are experienced Deputy Sheriffs who will discuss day-to-day operations of the Sheriff’s Office.

Participants will also: 

visit the County Jail, 911 Emergency Services Dispatch Center, and Sheriff’s Office

• observe displays of the Emergency Response Team (ERT), Hostage Negotiation, K-9 Unit, and Evidence Recovery
• be provided insight into motor vehicle accident reconstruction
• participate in daily physical fitness runs, defensive tactics, and team-building exercises
• participate in a classroom setting and learn about the NYS Penal Laws and Vehicle & Traffic Laws
• participate in mock traffic stops and DWI procedures

Qualified candidates will be selected for an interview screening process if they meet the following requirements:

• must be entering grades 10-12 at the time of application submission
• must be in good academic standing with little to no disciplinary issues
• must be able to participate in physical fitness activities
• must have a positive attitude
• must have their parents’ permission

For more information, photos, or to obtain an application, contact Deputy Joshua Brabon at 585-345-3000, extension 3230.

Submitted photos.

With the majority of five speakers being in favor of expanding the city’s downtown open container law, business owner Dr. Marlin Salmon stood alone, discouraging City Council’s future yes vote, as the proposed amendment brought out downtown merchants on both sides of the issue during a pubic hearing Tuesday evening.

Matt Gray, representing his downtown Eli Fish Brewing Company and fellow merchant Center Street Smokehouse, said he has never had a bad report from prior special events that involved open container privileges, while Salmon said he doesn’t think it sets “a good example for the youth in our community.”

To be fair, Salmon, who owns an orthodontics business in Batavia City Centre, said he knows that certain businesses are going to probably benefit and has heard that other municipalities have enacted similar open container laws, but he is not clear about all of the benefits and adverse effects.

“As a business owner, I have concerns in that I have a lot of young people coming in and out of my business on a weekly basis, and there have been some issues around my business. In the past, we used to have the benches out in front of our businesses in that area in the past, and we used to have people kind of in that area, and there were some issues with the drinking and we had that little bus stop there,” he said during the hearing at City Hall. “So that area of the mall just seems to get a lot of traffic, and I'm concerned how my patients and how my parents are going to perceive this, and then also I have concerns as far as how that's going to impact inside the mall itself. I know there's been some issues there, as far as the enforceability of the concourse.”

He’s not against having open containers during special events, such as the annual beer and wine walks — “I think there certainly is a time and place for it” — but overall on a day-to-day basis, he is “not if favor of it,” he said.

Gray reminded everyone that Jackson Square became “open container friendly” last year.

“And as Eli Fish, along with Center Street Smokehouse, we are the direct beneficiaries of that, but we're also the ones who have been able to see how it's gone. I'm happy to report that we have had no issues, reported no issues on our end, and what we had seen last year was a great season where we had a great Friday night concert series. We were able to add a Saturday night concert series with the help of Center Street, BID and GO ART!, and all of those went very well with the open container,” Gray said. “And while you know, to be honest, open container isn't the thing that makes that evening, it’s about great music and friends. And while you may not be thinking of it at the time, it does add to the evening, as far as opening up the container law for the entire downtown mid area.

“This summer, we should see the reopening of a great Italian steakhouse down here. We'll see our first tequila bar. We're going to see Carr’s Reborn finally become a reality … we're really excited for the momentum that we're seeing, and I think that the open container, ability to have festivals and have a downtown dining district only adds to that,” he said. “And when you start adding population that actually lives there too, you really do become the center of the county, and your destination for all to live, work and play.”

An initiative brought forth by the Business Improvement District to allow for open containers from noon to 10 p.m. on a daily basis in that downtown area, except for Court Street where government buildings are, and in Austin Park, expanding this local law is “a really good step forward for our downtown as part of the long-term revitalization towards encouraging more businesses downtown,” BID President Zach Korzelius said.

“There's a lot of communities in our local area and all over New York State moving forward with similar plans, and in a lot of these smaller towns, it really does help out with the downtown atmosphere, and that's the biggest thing. This focus isn't just about open container; it’s really about revitalizing our downtown atmosphere and culture. It makes us get that more modern look that a lot of small towns and villages are going for,” Korzelius said. “And as (Executive Director) Shannon said, in some of these small towns, Lancaster, for example, has done similar things in their downtown has really seen a good push, and especially with housing situations, it encourages a lot more younger people that have that most vibrant feel that they want to be able to be in that kind of, what we like to call social/downtown district.

“So I really appreciate the council taking this into consideration. Since I've been on the BID now as president going into my second year, this was one of my two big initiatives that I wanted to help accomplish,” he said. “This vote isn't just about the ordinance, but it's about the culture of our downtown, making people feel less regulated and feel more open to doing business downtown.”

City residents Sammy DiSalvo and John Roach also spoke up for the proposal. Roach believes it will alleviate excessive drinking by allowing people to take a drink with them rather than having to “chug it down if you want to leave,” he said. It just makes sense, he said.

“It’s always amazing that other areas can do things and people that say, well, geez, it won’t work here. Why not? What makes you think we’re different?” he said. “If it works at other places, why can it not work here? I think it’s a very good idea that the whole council votes up for it unanimously.”

Councilman Bob Bialkowski asked devil’s advocate questions about the city’s liability: what if you walk into City Hall, go into the clerk’s office to ask some questions, have a couple of beers and fall down the stairs.

“So now I’m going to sue the city. Whether they win or not, it’s immaterial at this point; it’s illegal. Costs are going up, and all the taxpayers have to pay,” he said. “So the risk is of the entire city for any litigations brought up. The city could be implicit for any of that versus the gain will only be for smaller (portions of the city), and these are one of the questions I had."

There are limited instances in which any municipal entity can be found liable for a public space, City Attorney George Van Nest said, and the addition of open containers in that public space is “not necessarily going to change that dynamic.”

“There are prerequisites to finding a municipal entity liable, notice of defects, negligence, things of that sort. So, without getting into the weeds in terms of hypotheticals, that doesn't necessarily create liability on behalf of the city, the point of being subject to a lawsuit. Anybody can be subject to a lawsuit in the U.S.,” he said. “That's the nature of our society. It doesn't mean there's a liability. It doesn't mean there's an actual exposure associated with a defendant being found liable. It just simply means we live in a litigious society.”

Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. raised a different concern about the mall, or Batavia City Centre. He asked if it would be included in the amended local law, and city management said yes, it would be. Just because it’s in a separate building does not make it exclusive to BID laws, or open container, just because the businesses are inside.

“I’d like a little more information on the mall component. I mean, you've explained it as far as the public space is concerned, but it might be something that I could foresee a problem, especially in the winter months. Someone might decide to come in and have mini parties in one section of the mall. I don't know if that's appropriate, but if it's allowed, then it could be a potential risk,” Jankowski said. “So I just think stuff like that should be kind of considered, maybe, because it's a separate group of individual businesses within a separate building. It's not the same as the downtown area. So there is that component to it. So I'd like a little more information on that, not necessarily against it. I just wanted some more clarity to make amendments.”

If any further amendments are made to the law, another public hearing would be required, City Manager Rachael Tabelski said. Council agreed to move the measure, as is, to a future business meeting for a vote.

The Batavia Muckdogs ushered in the 2025 baseball season with their annual Meet ’N Eat kickoff party Tuesday evening at Eli Fish Brewing Company in downtown Batavia.

More than 100 fans, sponsors, and season ticket holders gathered to meet the Muckdogs players and coaching staff, who took turns introducing themselves and sharing excitement for the upcoming season. 

Attendees enjoyed food, drinks, and live entertainment as they mingled with the team. Season ticket holders and sponsors also received their welcome bags as part of the festivities.
The event has become a tradition for the Batavia baseball community, offering fans a chance to connect with the team before the first pitch of the season.

The Muckdogs will open their home schedule at Dwyer Stadium on Saturday, at 7 p.m. against the Elmira Pioneers.

• 1st Place: Rob Krajewski & Nick Palladino - 49
• 2nd Place: Anthony Schiro & Chris Kulinski - 43
• 3rd Place: Josh Wojtasczczyk & Steve Latimer - 40

• 1st Place: Mike D'Agostino & Bob King - $5,880
• 2nd Place: Eric Haile & Sam Haile - $4,421
• 3rd Place: Holly Hubert & Steve Coulton - $2,813

Photos by Jennifer DiQuattro 

City Council President and retired City Police Lieutenant Eugene Jankowski Jr. read a proclamation during Tuesday’s council meeting as a preview to Wednesday’s memorial police ceremony at who Cemetery on Clinton Street Road (Route 33).

The public is invited to attend the event at 1 p.m., at which time Batavia Police Department officers will place flags on the graves of officers who have died, and to remember those officers in other cemeteries in the area, Jankowski said.

City of Batavia proclamation, WHEREAS the officers of the city of Batavia Police Department are committed to the preservation of life and property, risking their lives to provide protection law and order in serving the cause of justice, and

WHEREAS the officers of the city of Batavia Police Department accept the profound responsibility and work to uphold our laws, safeguard our rights and freedoms and serve on the front lines in the fight against crime in an effort to keep our neighborhoods safe, and

WHEREAS many of the officers dedicated several years serving the residents of the city of Batavia, most serving longer than 20 years their service to the city meant time away from their families and loved ones in order to protect the community that they took an oath to safeguard.

And WHEREAS each year, the city of Batavia will recognize the dedicated and brave police officers who have been laid to rest since retiring from the police department by placing Memorial flags at each officer's grave site in remembrance of their service to the city.

Now therefore be it RESOLVED that I, City Council president and retired police lieutenant, Eugene Jankowski Jr., on behalf of the City Council of the City of Batavia, do hereby make this proclamation to honor our departed police officers who have retired from the city of Batavia Police Department, who, by their loyal and selfless devotion to their duties, have rendered dedicated service to our community and to declare May 28, 2025 as the city of Batavia Police Department Flag Commemoration Day.

“And I thank the community for their service to the officers, and to the officers for their service to our community,” Jankowski said, to applause from the audience.

Fillmore defeated Elba 3-1 in extra innings Wednesday in the Section V Class D baseball quarterfinals. The game was tied 1-1 after seven innings before Fillmore scored twice in the ninth to secure the win.

Nicholas Scott pitched eight innings for Elba, allowing three hits and one run with seven strikeouts. Damon Potter went the distance for Fillmore, striking out nine and allowing just three hits.
Brayden Jacomowichiz doubled for Elba, while Mark Caparco and Alex Rascoe each added a hit. Elba finishes the season with 13 wins, the most in program history.

Coach Andy Boyce said, “I am so proud of what our boys accomplished this season. They have absolutely nothing to hang their heads about as they left everything on the field against a quality, well-coached Fillmore team.” Boyce also noted that with no seniors on the roster, the team is looking forward to returning next season.

Photos by Kristin Smith

Le Roy edges Haverling, 3-1, to reach Class B semifinals

Behind a dominant outing from Alex Spezzano and some highlight-reel defense, Le Roy advanced to the Section V Class B baseball semifinals Tuesday with a 3-1 win over Haverling.

Spezzano tossed a complete game two-hitter, striking out seven. 

After Haverling’s Dylan Wenban reached on an error and scored in the first, Spezzano allowed just one hit the rest of the way.

Le Roy’s defense came up big, highlighted by left fielder Jude Sherman’s diving catch to end the fourth and strand a runner. At the plate, Adam Woodworth and Jake Higgins drew back-to-back walks in the fourth, pulled off a double steal, and both scored—Woodworth on a wild pitch and Higgins on a fielder’s choice by Holden Sullivan. Higgins later drove in Woodworth with an RBI single in the fifth.

Jude Christ and Jagger Smith added hits for Le Roy. Haverling’s Gage Thomas pitched well in the loss, allowing just four hits.

Le Roy moves on to face No. 3 seed Wayland-Cohocton in Thursday’s semifinal.

Photos by Leslie Higgins.

Oakfield-Alabama earned a spot in the Section V Class C2 semifinals Tuesday with an 8-2 win over Alexander.

Piper Hyde went 4-for-4 with a triple to lead the Lady Hornets at the plate. Raine Denny drove in four runs, including a triple, while Chloe Lamb added three hits and two RBIs. Allison Harkness finished 2-for-3 with an RBI, and Ysa Schrauger and Allie Williams each added a hit.

Savannah Durham pitched a complete game, allowing three hits and no earned runs while striking out five.

“We played well defensively and cashed in our runners when we got them into scoring position,” OA coach Jeff Schlagenhauf said. “This is a great opportunity for these girls to move on to the semifinals.”

Photos by Jordyn Tobolski

Press Release:

After decades of exceptional service in family medicine, Mary Obear, MD, PhD is preparing to retire at the end of May, leaving behind a profound legacy of healing, leadership, and community commitment. Her patients will be seen by Shannon Bartlett, ANP, and Kevin Beuler, PA, at Oak Orchard Health’s Corfu office. 

A retirement party will be held in her honor on June 14 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Pembroke Community Center. Family, friends, current and past staff and patients, and people in the community are welcome.

Dr. Obear has been a family physician in private practice since 2002 at Pembroke Family Medicine, which grew to three locations (Batavia, Alexander, and Corfu). On July 1, 2020, she combined her multi-location practice with Oak Orchard Health because of their common mission to provide high-quality primary care to everyone. At that time, we dedicated the health center to Dr. Obear.

“It is with mixed feelings that I announce my retirement from Oak Orchard Health on May 30. I have cared for patients in Genesee County and beyond for over two and a half decades (that’s a quarter of a century!). It’s been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and my time at Oak Orchard Health has been very important to me,” says Dr. Obear. “I feel it’s time for me to begin my next chapter of my life, traveling and seeing my family who live all over the country. I leave my patients in the care of Shannon Bartlett, ANP and Kevin Beuler, PA. I have supreme confidence in them. They are both skilled practitioners and are compassionate and caring with patients.”

Dr. Obear is well known in the community and serves in many volunteer roles. She is on the Board of Health for Genesee County and the Board of Directors at Crossroads House and Gateway House.