A golden-colored Yorkie, nearly 16 years old, went missing from his home at the upper end of Ross Street in Batavia. Named Zach, this frail guy cannot hear and does not see very well. If anyone sees him, please call his owner at 585-409-4870.
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has collected critical funds in the community since 1954 – one dollar at a time – as part of the Fill the Boot program for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). The Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 896 will continue this long-standing tradition as its members kick off the annual program, raising funds to support MDA’s vision to accelerate research, advance care, and advocate for the support of MDA families.
Dedicated firefighters from Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 896 will hit the streets with boots in hand, asking pedestrians, motorists, customers, and other passersby to donate to the MDA on June 6 from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Main and Court Street and Ellicott and Court Street in the City of Batavia.
The partnership between MDA and IAFF began in 1954, when the IAFF signed a proclamation designating MDA its charity of choice and vowing to continue raising awareness and funds until cures are found. To date, the nearly seven-decade partnership has raised more than $679 million, with involvement from over 300,000 firefighters nationwide.
These funds have led in part to over a dozen FDA-approved drugs in as many years for those with neuromuscular disease. Those treatments were created from MDA’s vision to open a new field of medicine and push the boundaries of the medical frontier we call genetic medicine.
“What the IAFF has done for MDA over the past 68 years is unprecedented,” said Donald S. Wood, Ph.D., President and CEO of MDA. “With the support from our partners at the IAFF, MDA is doing the impossible in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating for people living with neuromuscular disease. We have a mission to empower the people we serve to life longer, more independent lives and we will fulfill this mission together, with the IAFF.”
The 2024-2025 Ascension and Resurrection Faith Formation Program recently participated in the Western New York Catholic Charities "Competing for the Cup Challenge." The program won first place against other Faith Formation groups throughout the Diocese of Buffalo, raising over $1100. When the program resumes later this fall, the group will enjoy a pizza party and treats for all their efforts.
The Faith Formation Group sponsored a Soup Supper, basket raffle, and bowl-a-thon during Lent in support of this challenge. As part of their service projects this year, they also supported the Annual All Babies Cherished Basket Raffle.
Thank you to all our families and volunteers who participated in this year's program, which will officially conclude with Confirmation at St. Joseph's Cathedral in Buffalo on Pentecost on June 8.
We know that moms are nurturing by nature, and that’s why it is imperative that children get guidance from both parents in building a foundation for success, especially when it comes to choosing a career.
Two out of three students develop their career plans from their parents, which is why I am here to emphasize the importance of parents being up to date on what employers are seeking in future job candidates and how you can mold your child’s career path and future plans.
Approximately 60% of all new jobs will need no more than a two-year degree; in STEM and the skilled trades, it’s almost 100%. Individuals who explore expedited pathways such as two-year degrees and apprenticeships will have ample career opportunities.
Starting your child in career exploration at a young age, much like in sports, provides them with valuable opportunities to discover their interests and strengths early on.
Waiting for your senior year in high school is too late and tends to be too costly when making career decisions. Acquiring skills and discovering the many career opportunities available throughout your academic journey will pay off in the long run.
If your child decides to take the four-year college route, figure out what your return on investment will be. Too often, I have seen students come out of school with debt and no career pathway.
That is why I suggest considering working and learning with your hands, especially if your child struggles academically. The best part is that these pathways are not permanent if your child decides to take a different route, but the skillsets they gain will be valued across many paths!
I want to thank parents like Brooke Pontillo, who connected me with her son Ben to discuss post-graduation opportunities. We met up for ‘coaching session’ and it worked!
I’m pleased to say Ben is now on a great career path at Liberty Pumps.
If you are interested to learn how you can spark career interest and exploration for your child, visit www.gcedc.com/careerchecklist to access our free career checklist, featuring eight essential steps to jumpstart a professional journey.
If you are a student, parent, teacher, or guidance counselor, contact me at csuozzi@gcedc.com to learn how to get involved today!
Go Bills!
Chris “Coach SwazZ” Suozzi is the Executive Vice President of Business & Workforce Development at the Genesee County Economic Development Center.
Spring has arrived, and with it comes Genesee County’s Farm Bureau’s annual event Kinderfarmin’! We are ecstatic to be able to bring this wonderful tradition to our kindergarten students and families! Kinderfarmin’ is being held on Wednesday, June 4, at Post Dairy Farms, LLC in Oakfield. This event, in one form or another, has been happening for over 40 years in Genesee County and has become a staple for classrooms.
Kinderfarmin’ has been recognized by the American Farm Bureau Federation as an “Event of Excellence”.
This day attracts over 600 kindergarten students from ten school districts. Including teachers, chaperones, and the hundred volunteers, the host farm will have over 1000 visitors in a single day. For this one day, this local dairy farm will continue to be a dairy and be transformed into a classroom with hands-on learning stations and guided tours.
Genesee County Farm Bureau partners with roughly 20 local businesses and organizations to provide a unique, fun and educational experience for all ages. We aim to highlight all the effort that goes into making our favorite dairy products like milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, and of course ice cream!
Our field trip is FREE for every student and would not be possible without the generosity of our many sponsors and local farmers.
A bowling ball rolls down the wooden lane, striking into the pins and clattering them to the floor.
A whoop and a cheer are let out as the next bowler takes center stage; all this is possible thanks largely to a $5,000 grant from the M&T Charitable Foundation. The grant was awarded to enhance Arc GLOW’s recreation and respite programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Genesee, Livingston, and Wyoming counties. Thanks to this generous support, the people served by Arc GLOW are participating in a wide array of inclusive and enriching activities. From bowling nights and movie outings to dining experiences, museum and theater visits, and local festivals.
“Our goal is to create opportunities for joy, connection, and community involvement,” said Jill Pegelow, vice president of Self-Direction and Community Services at Arc GLOW. “M&T Bank’s support plays a huge part in helping us bring these experiences to life.”
Arc GLOW has several events on tap in 2025, including the Self-Advocate All Stars Annual Talent Show fundraiser on April 26; Johnathan Doherty and Gladys Hopper Self-Advocacy Day on May 31; Arc Night at the Ballpark on June 12; Genesee County fair activities; nature walks at Swallow Hollow Trail; outdoor sports; and many other community activities.
“Arc GLOW’s recreation and respite programs provide meaningful experiences to individuals and their families. We appreciate the support of the M&T Charitable Foundation for making a difference,” Pegelow said.
Arc GLOW’s recreation and respite program provides temporary relief to families from the demands of caregiving, which can help reduce overall family stress. This allows families to better meet the needs of their loved ones with a developmental disability. Respite can be provided in or out of the home, during the day, evenings or nights.
To learn more about Arc GLOW and the recreation and respite program, visit ArcGLOW.org.
The Batavia Muckdogs have officially released their 2025 promotional night schedule. This season the Muckdogs will have four fireworks shows- May 31, June 14, July 3, and 26, $1 Hotdog & $2 Beer Night return, various giveaways, and some new in-game promotions as well!
This season, fireworks shows will be sponsored by Graham Corporation and Turnbull Heating & Air (Saturday, May 30), O-AT-KA Milk Products and Tompkins Bank (Saturday, June 14), Batavia Downs and Rochester Regional Health (Thursday, July 3), and HP Hood and Oak Orchard Health (Saturday, July 26).
The Helicopter Candy Drop (sponsored by Pete Zeliff) will make a return on Saturday, June 7 vs Geneva. Bark in the Park (bring your dogs to the game!) and No Farms No Food Night (a night highlighting agriculture in our community presented by Alleghany Farm Services) makes their return to Dwyer Stadium.
The Muckdogs have also teamed up with local community leaders as well as this season will feature a YMCA Night (Genesee County), Military Appreciation Night (Presented by Geico – Local Batavia Office), Strike out Cancer Night (in partnership with Wilmot Cancer Institute), Stop DWI Night, and the regular season ends with a pet food drive on Saturday July 27 vs Jamestown. The full schedule is available at www.canusamuckdogs.com.
This season will also feature some new in game promotions as well. Making a return is the Tully’s hitman of the game as fans will earn a coupon to Tully’s if the player selected gets a hit. Dewey the dog will have a new “home” this season as Perry Veterinary Clinic sponsor the Muckdogs Mascot. Also, brand new this season if the Muckdogs win you win (a free hamburger) courtesy of the Burger King. For full list of fan experiences & promotions visit www.canusamuckdogs.com.
The Muckdogs opening weekend is set for Saturday May 31 at 6:30 p.m. vs the Elmira Pioneers with post-game fireworks and then back Sunday June 1 at 4:05 p.m. vs the Jamestown Tarp Skunks with meet the team night. Season tickets are on sale starting at just $99. 585-524-2260 or visit www.canusamuckdogs.com for special promotions, season tickets, or group information. See you at Dwyer Stadium this summer.
The 2025 Memorial Day schedule of ceremonies begins on Sunday, May 25, at 2 p.m. with a ceremony at the Western New York National Cemetery, located at 1254 Indian Falls Road in Corfu.
Additional ceremonies will take place throughout Genesee County on Monday, May 26 are as follows:
7:00 a.m. - Genesee Co. Park – Vietnam Veterans Memorial (Sponsored by VVA #193)
8:00 a.m. - Williams Park W.W. I Memorial (wreath laying, rifle salute & Taps)
Veness-Strollo Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1602
Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #193
Sons of Union Veterans Abraham Lincoln Camp #6
The LeRoy American Legion Post 576 will be having a parade starting at the post at 10:30 on May 26, 2025. It will go down Main Street to Trigon Park (Old High School). There will be a ceremony with guest speaker Jim Ellison, Capt/USN/Ret, a laying of the wreath, and a ceremonial firing followed by taps that will begin at approximately 11:00.
Batavia Veterans of Foreign Wars – Post 1602 25 Edwards St., Batavia, NY 14020 Post 1602 members will also be placing flags at the Elmwood Cemetery on Friday, May 23, 2025. On Memorial Day, the post opens at noon for veteran lunch.
The City of Batavia's Memorial Day Parade begins at 9:30 a.m.
The Richmond Memorial Library will welcome local author JG Benedict for an author visit on Saturday, May 17, at 11 a.m. in the Reading Room.
JG is a native of Batavia and the author of paranormal fiction. He will discuss his book The Nightroad (Anthology One), which was published in November 2024 by Media Hatchery. The Nightroad takes readers on a voyage through the paranormal.
JG will share a talk followed by a book signing. Copies of the book will be for sale in paperback ($20) or hardcover ($30). Payment can be accepted in cash or Venmo. Copies are also available to borrow through the library!
JG Benedict is a paranormal fiction author and general essayist. He is a native of Batavia and a current resident. JG graduated from Batavia High School before attending college at St. Bonaventure University and SUNY Potsdam. Over the past forty-some years, he has lived and traveled throughout the United States; he is something of a Renaissance Man when it comes to his experience and skill set.
More information can be found at jgbenedict.com. For more about the Richmond Memorial Library and other programs, visit batavialibrary.org. RML is located at 19 Ross St in the City of Batavia.
Congratulations to the First Communicants from Resurrection Parish and Ascension Parish, who joyfully received their First Holy Communion during the 10 a.m. Mass on May 4 at St. Joseph’s Church.
Oakfield-Alabama picked up two wins on Monday over Pembroke.
The first win was a 19-0 victory that was the resumption of a game the teams were unable to complete on May 1. The Lady Hornets scored 11 runs in the seventh inning.
Allison Harkness got the win, going seven innings, giving up five hits and striking out seven. She was 2-4 at the plate with an RBI.
Hornet's offense:
Ysa Schrauger and Emma Moeller, 4-5 each with 3 RBIs
Allie Williams, 2-5, grand slam. 4 RBIs
Savannah Durham, Raine Denny and Rylee Denny each had 2 hits
In game two, O-A came from behind (down 7-5), scoring four runs in the bottom of the sixth to win 9-7.
Harkness got the win in relief of starter Savannah Durham.
Offense:
Piper Hyde, 3-4, 2 RBIs
Allison Harkness, 2-4 RBI
Emma Moeller, 2-2, RBI
Allie Williams, Rylee Denny and Chloe Lamb each had a hit and an RBI
Behind a one-hitter (an infield single) by Oakfield-Alabama's Savannah Durham, the Hornets beat the Elba Lancers in Softball on Saturday, 12-0 in six innings.
Durham fanned eight hitters and didn't issue a walk. She was also 2-4 at the plate.
The Lady Irish defeated the Elba Lancers Friday night, 11-10.
The Irish took a 7-0 lead into the 5th inning. The Lancers closed the gap with one run in the 5th and then proceeded to go on a scoring run in the 6th, flipping the advantage to a 10-7 lead over the Irish.
Notre Dame battled back in the bottom of the 6th with a single by Amelia Sorochty and a double by Sofia Falleti, driving in the two runs needed to even the score out to 10-10 going into the 7th.
Falleti turned a double play and then had a diving catch to seal all three outs in the top of the 7th.
Amelia Sorochty scored the winning run in the 7th for the Irish and led the team, going 4-5 at the plate.
Mia Treleaven was the winning pitcher, giving up 11 hits and 10 runs (4 earned) while striking out 10. Bri Totten and Brea Smith led the Lancers, collecting two hits each. Smith took the loss, striking out eight and walking none.
“This year’s budget was a missed opportunity -- a chance to confront New York’s affordability crisis, restore public safety, and rebuild public trust. Instead, Albany delivered more of the same.
At $254 billion, this is the largest and one of the most irresponsible budgets in state history. While families struggle with rising costs and small businesses fight to survive, this plan adds to the burden. Modest wins like a small tax cut and one-time ‘inflation refunds’ will be quickly offset by the long-term damage of the runaway spending. You can’t fix affordability by growing government at such a scale.
The failures extend beyond the bottom line. The Governor promised meaningful discovery reform to fix the flood of criminal case dismissals under the 2019 law and the resulting harm caused to public safety. Instead, we got a watered-down tweak that won’t make a real difference. Her proposed mask ban, meant to deter masked agitators and criminals and aid law enforcement, was similarly gutted. The kind of lawless takeover we saw this week at Columbia University will happen again and again. Once again, public safety took a back seat to political appeasement.
There are a few bright spots. The budget finally expands involuntary commitment standards and strengthens Kendra’s Law—provisions similar to legislation I’ve championed for years. These changes are overdue and may save lives. It also pays off the state’s $7 billion unemployment insurance debt, offering long-awaited relief for small businesses. But let’s not forget: those same businesses have spent the past five years unfairly footing the bill while Albany failed to act.
Any goodwill is undermined by one of the most outrageous provisions in the budget: $10 million in taxpayer funds set aside to cover the private legal fees for state officials, including Attorney General Letitia James, if she faces federal prosecution for mortgage fraud. The actions being investigated involve a personal financial transaction and have nothing to do with her role as Attorney General. She should pay for her own defense. Taxpayers should never be forced to bankroll the personal legal troubles of political elites.
This budget is a monument to mismanagement—a missed opportunity to deliver real reform, real relief, and real results. Every year, Albany excuses a late budget by promising it will be ‘worth the wait.’ This year, once again, it wasn’t.”
The Batavia Police Department and National Grid want to warn you about a potential scam in our community. There have been reports of individuals going door-to-door, claiming to represent National Grid, but they are not affiliated with the company.
These individuals may be trying to sell services or collect personal information from residents. It's essential to remember that National Grid does not engage in door-to-door solicitation.
If someone comes to your door claiming to represent National Grid, be cautious and take the following steps to protect yourself:
Verify identity: Ask to see photo identification. National Grid and licensed Energy Service Company representatives must carry visible ID with a logo.
Protect your information: Never provide your utility account number or a copy of your utility bill unless you are sure you want to consider an offer.
Be cautious of agreements: Do not sign anything until you understand the agreement terms, rate structures, billing practices, customer service policies, and cancellation procedures.
Be aware of red flags: National Grid will never ask for your account number during a home visit or unsolicited call.
Stay safe: If you feel unsafe or suspect fraudulent activity, lock your doors and call 911 immediately.
If you're unsure about the identity of a National Grid employee, you can always confirm by calling 1-800-642-4272. We appreciate your partnership in helping us protect our community members from misleading or fraudulent activity.
Any other legitimate solicitor must register with the City of Batavia Clerk's office and will be issued paperwork, feel free to ask for this documentation.
Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Stay vigilant, and let's work together to prevent scams in our community.
If you have any questions or need further support, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Batavia Police Department or National Grid.
Town of Batavia - Lower 1 bedroom apartment for rent with all appliances and parking. Sun room with gas fireplace and patio. $1100/ Month; plus electric, includes heat and water. No pets and no smoking. Security and references required. Available June 15th. Call 585-344-3141 for appointment.
