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Come together, share in familiar stories at mental health 'stigma-ending' event

By Joanne Beck
GOW CARES Alliance
Genesee Orleans Wyoming (GOW) CARES Alliance planning committee members, including Sara Andrew, Sherri Bensley, Tricia Demmer, Cheryl Netter, Heather Kemp, Kara Baker, Rachel Fisher, Shannon Ryan, and Sue Gagne, prepare for a mental health awareness event to promote awareness and create a stigma-free community, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 28 at First Presbyterian Church, 300 E. Main St., Batavia.
Photo by Joanne Beck

Next time you’re out at a public event, look around and remember that 70 new people visit Genesee County’s Mental Health Department for services each year.

Given that about one in every five people has experienced some type of mental health issue in New York State, that number may seem small, though admitting a struggle with one’s mental health can still make it difficult to seek help, Mental Health Director Lynda Battaglia says.

OLV Human Services expands mental health access in Genesee County

By Howard B. Owens
olv human services
Dr. Ted Andrews, CEO Cindy Lee, and Chief Program Officer Sheila Hunt.
Photo by Howard Owens.

OLV Human Services marked the expansion of mental health services in Genesee County with a ribbon cutting and open house Wednesday at its new facility on Main Road in Stafford.

“This is a really exciting day for us to be able to expand our mental health services out to Genesee County,” said Cindy Lee, CEO of OLV Human Services. “One of the things that we discovered in our research about underserved areas was that Genesee County is definitely an area where there’s long wait lists for people to be able to get in for mental health supports. So we were able to locate this facility with very minimal renovations needed, and it was the perfect fit for us.”

Lee said the organization will also open an evaluation and treatment center at the site in July. The center will serve families of young children suspected of having developmental delays and provide diagnostic and treatment services for children currently on long wait lists at area hospitals.

“We think we’re bringing a very necessary service to the area,” Lee said.

Dr. Ted Andrews, a pediatric psychologist, pediatrician and specialist in developmental and behavioral pediatrics, said the new center will focus on autism evaluation and treatment. He noted that wait times for similar services at major hospitals in Buffalo and Rochester can be 12 to 24 months.

“We’re trying to put ourselves in between those bigger hospital systems to be able to provide the same coverage,” Andrews said.

The new facility is located at 6917 Main Road in Stafford. OLV Human Services provides counseling, treatment, and support services for children and families across Western New York.

Previously: Stafford facility a 'perfect setup' for counseling and treatment services site

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Sheila Hunt and Lynda Battaglia, director of Mental Health and Community Services for Genesee County
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Cindy Lee 
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Photo by Howard Owens.
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Photo by Howard Owens.
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Photo by Howard Owens.

Tree outside GO ART! wrapped in its own crocheted sweater

By Howard B. Owens
crochet go art tree
Debbie Urban and Mellissa Lee.
Photo by Howard Owens
crochet go art tree
Photo by Howard Owens

Have you ever seen a tree wrapped in a cozy, crochet sweater? 

If not, head to Downtown Batavia and stop by GO ART!, 201 E. Main St., because a circle of crocheters who meet monthly at GO ART! have completed their first tree sweater outside of Seymour Place.

“We meet every second Thursday of the month,” Melissa Lee explained, as she and her fellow crafters worked to attach the final pieces to the tree. “Gregory (Hallock), who’s in charge at GO ART!, thought it would be a good idea. He came to us about doing tree sweaters. He talked us into maybe applying for a grant. We got the grant, and we’ve been working together to create these motifs to put on the tree.”

The project, which Lee describes as “just a fun project,” is more than just a whimsical art installation. It’s a statement about the versatility of crochet and the power of collaboration. 

“We want to get it out there and let people know, crocheting can be more than just blankets, and old ladies and crocheting,” Lee said.

The group, including Lee’s mother, Debbie Urban, Ashley McClellan, Tim Lee (wearing crocheted pants in photos), and Lee’s father, Don Urban, has poured nearly 80 hours into the project. 

“It’s been a collaborative work for quite a few of us,” Lee said. “We started at 2:30 today and did a lot of work yesterday, pretty much all day, trying to finish it so that we’d have one big kind of blanket-looking piece, so that we could wrap it around the tree. And then we’ve been taking small pieces and just attaching them.”

The finished result is a mosaic of color and texture, accented by the individual expressions of each crocheter. 

“We all had the same pattern that we started with, and then everybody picked their own colors, so they all had their own little spin on it. So it’ll be fun when the ladies come out and they’re like, ‘Oh, that was mine,’ and they can come and look at the tree and pick out their pieces,” Lee said.

The project has become a family affair, with Lee’s mother and husband joining in the fun. 

“My mother is working on the tree out there too, and she was the one who made the pants,” Lee added, referring to crocheted pants worn by Tim Lee.

And this is just the beginning. The group plans to yarn bomb another tree on the side street later this summer, with a new theme featuring crocheted characters, butterflies, animals, and flowers. 

 

“This one is granny circles. The other one will be little characters, butterflies, animals and stuff and then flowers around. That should be fun,” Lee said.

Softball: Hornets top Lancers 9-1

By Staff Writer
softball

Oakfield-Alabama built an early lead and defeated Elba, 9-1, in softball on Wednesday. 

The Hornets improved to 12-1 on the season.

Oakfield-Alabama scored four runs in the first inning and added to their lead in the second, third, fourth, and sixth. 

Allison Harkness earned the win, pitching seven innings, allowing four hits, and striking out eight.

Hornets offense:

  • Piper Hyde: 3-for-4, 2 doubles, 2 RBI
  • Raine Denny: 3-for-4
  • Allison Harkness: 2-for-4, 2 RBI
  • Chloe Lamb: 1-for-1, triple, 3 RBI
  • Allie Williams: 1-for-3, RBI
  • Jess Sosnowski: 1-for-3, RBI

“It was our eighth game in a nine-day stretch," said Coach Jeff Schlagenhauf. "I am very proud of how our girls have battled and have been able to maintain their focus. It has been a long stretch. It will be good to get some practice work in tomorrow.” 

Photos by Kristin Smith

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Tennis Byron-Bergen beats Pemborke 3-2

By Howard B. Owens
tennis

Byron-Bergen beat Pembroke 3-2 in tennis on Wednesday.

  • First singles, Riley Shallenberger (BB) defeated D.J. Hale (Pem) 6-3, 4-6, 6-0
  • Second singles, Angel Neureutor (Pem) defeated Erron Kimble (BB) 7-5, 6-3
  • Third singles, Levi McGrath (BB) defeated Camden Schneider (Pem) 6-4, 6-2
  • First doubles, Tyler Kuepf/Logan Manna (Pem) defeated Sara Bishop/Justin Gabehart (BB) 6-2, 4-6, 6-4
  • Second doubles, Noah Clare/Craig DiQuattro (BB) defeated Danielle Mast/Paul Tebur (Pem) 6-7(5-7), 7-6(7-5), 6-4

Photos by Jennifer DiQuattro.

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Baseball: Caparco’s Walk-Off Lifts Elba in Extra-Inning Thriller Over Bergen

By Staff Writer
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Mark Caparco delivered a walk-off double in the bottom of the eighth inning as Elba rallied to defeat Byron-Bergen in extra innings on Wednesday night.

Nicholas Scott earned the win for Elba with 7 1/3 innings of three-hit ball. After surrendering a bloop single in the first, Scott settled in and allowed just one more hit the rest of the way, finishing with 10 strikeouts.

Mason Vigiano came on to record the final two outs and notch the save.

Caparco finished 2-for-4 with an RBI, including his game-winning gapper. Scott also helped his own cause at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a double and a triple. Bing Zuber contributed, going 1-for-3 with a run scored and an RBI, while Vigiano added an RBI single.

After falling behind early, Elba responded by tying the game and ultimately prevailing in extras.

“We’ve talked a lot about how our energy and toughness directly impact winning baseball,” said Coach Andrew Boyce. “Tonight, the boys battled back after taking a haymaker in the first. That’s the kind of game we’ll remember come sectionals when we need to dig deep. Elba baseball is a tough out for anyone.”

Elba will look to build on this momentum as the postseason approaches.

Photos by Kristin Smith

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Softball: Arianna Almekinder records 100th strikeout in perfect game, Batavia wins third straight

By Staff Writer
Arianna Almekinder struck out 13, threw her first varsity perfect game with no hits or walks and records 100th strikout this season.  Submitted photo.
Arianna Almekinder struck out 13, threw her first varsity perfect game with no hits or walks and records 100th strikout this season.  Submitted photo.

Arianna Almekinder delivered a stellar performance on Tuesday afternoon, striking out 13 batters and tossing her first varsity perfect game as Batavia cruised to a 19-0 victory over East High.

Almekinder reached a major milestone early, recording her 100th strikeout of the season in the second inning. She was dominant throughout, not allowing a single hit or walk in the shutout win.

Offensive leaders were Violet Lopez, Hannah Carney, Almekinder herself, and Libby Grazioplene..

The win marks Batavia’s third straight victory. 

Track & Field: Batavia celebrates seniors before meet against Greece Olympia/Odyssey

By Howard B. Owens
batavia track

Press release:

Batavia Boys competed against Greece Olympia/Odyssey on Tuesday and came away with a 110-31 victory.  Winners for Batavia were:

  • Jamere Reeves -110 Hurdles (17.3)
  • Grant Gahagan - 400m (54.0)
  • Cameron Garofalo - 1600m (4:35.6), 3200m (10:56)
  • Sheldon Siverling - Shot Put (58-11), Discus (155-10)
  • Justin Smith - Triple Jump (39-6.75), High Jump (5-10)
  • Da'Von Gallo Williams - 400 Hurdles (1:03.9)
  • Cooper Banser - 800m (2:18.0)
  • Keagan Calmes - 200m (23.7)
  • Cooper Konieczny - Pole Vault (10-6)
  • 4x400 Relay - Jamari Irvin, Brandon Currier, Da'Von Gallo Williams, Isaac Varland
  • 4x800 Relay - Mason Bellamy, Gabe Flanagan, Noah Richmond, Grady Moore

We also celebrated and recognized our seniors prior to this meet and we have 23 Seniors who have competed with us this year! 

Photos by Kristin Smith. 

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Attica’s late rally to tie falls short as the Trojans respond with 6 runs to seal the win 10-4

By Staff Writer
alexander softball

Alexander beat Attica on the day of the Trojans' Senior Game on Tuesday, 10-5.

The Trojans answered a late rally by Attica, scoring four runs and tying the game, with six runs in the sixth inning.

Emily Pietrzykowski tripled, scoring two runs, Melanie Bump laid down a sacrifice bunt, scoring one run, and Felski tripled, scoring three runs. Sophomore Ella Felski led the Trojans at the plate and provided clutch hitting that put the game out of reach for Attica.

Pietrzykowski earned the win for Alexander. The righty surrendered five hits and four runs over seven innings, striking out eight and walking six.

Sophomore Haley Mills took the loss for Attica. The starter went six innings, giving up 10 runs (six earned) on 10 hits, striking out three and walking four. Piorun led Attica with two runs batted in. The outfielder went 3-for-4 on the day.

Alexander piled up 10 hits in the game. Melissa Sawyer, Yax, and Pietrzykowski each collected multiple hits for Alexander.
 

Hitting:

  • Ella Felski went 3-for-4 with a triple, 4 RBIs, 2 runs, stolen base
  • Melissa Sawyer went 2-for-3 with 2 RBIs, run, walk
  • Ava Yax went 2-for-3 with an RBI, 2 runs, walk, stolen base
  • Emili Pietrzykowski went 2-for-4 with a Triple, 2 RBIs, and a run scored

Pitching:

  • Emily Pietrzykowski – Win, 7 Innings, 5 hits allowed, 4 earned runs allowed, 6 walks issued and 8 punch outs.

"This was senior night for our girls, and the way it played out felt like a movie script," said Coach John Goodenbury. "After giving up four runs in the top of the sixth, I told them in the dugout, 'This is your script to write, go out and write it.' They went out there, fought for it, and made it happen. It was a great moment for their families to see them respond that way on an emotional senior night. We needed this win to stay in contention to win the GR (Division 1). 

"I also want to give credit to Attica’s pitcher Haley Mills; she’s a developing pitcher and is going to be a force for Attica over the next couple of years. She’s poised, she battles, and I had the pleasure of having her fill in with our travel team last summer. I know she’s only going to keep rising to the top, and she won’t be easy next year."

Photo by Makenna Boyce.

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Celebrating Mental Health awareness month with the grand opening of OLV Human Services

By Press Release

Press Release:

On Wednesday, May 14, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., a special event will be held at the Oatka Family Practice, located at 5762 E. Main Street, Suite 6, in Stafford. The event will begin with prepared remarks and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

OLV Human Services (OLVHS) – one of the region’s largest mental and behavioral health organizations - is celebrating the grand opening of their Genesee County location, which will serve the mental and behavioral health of the community. Located in suite 6 of the Oatka Family Practice building, OLVHS will serve residents’ needs through their Evaluation and Treatment Center and Outpatient Clinic services.

The event will feature prepared remarks and a ribbon cutting. The individuals noted below will also be available for interviews.

The Evaluation and Treatment Program offers multi-disciplinary assessments and evaluations for children suspected of having a developmental disability, including autism spectrum disorder. If the results of the assessment indicate the need for treatment, the team will provide individualized behavioral programming, occupational therapy, speech therapy and medical management including developmental pharmacology. 

The Outpatient Clinic provides care and counseling for children, adolescents, and adults with behavioral, emotional and psychiatric difficulties of varying levels of severity. Licensed therapists work with the support of a board-certified psychiatrist to provide person-centered services for children and adults. Treatment plans are custom-tailored and may include individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy, as well as medication management.

Attendees will include Cindy Lee, CEO of OLV Human Services; Lynda Battaglia, Director of Mental Health and Community Services for Genesee County; Sheila Hunt, Chief Program Officer at OLV Human Services; Dr. Ted Andrews, a pediatric psychologist and pediatrician at OLV’s Evaluation and Treatment Center; Katie Cowley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at OLV Human Services; and Heather Bell, Mental Health Counselor at OLV Human Services.

Photos: Spraying soil along Jackson Street's new sidewalks

By Howard B. Owens
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Contractors with Soil-King were on Jackson Street in Batavia on Wednesday afternoon, laying down a new layer of soil and grass seed as work nears completion on a $1.3 million project to lay new water lines and replace the sidewalk on the east side of the street.

Batavia received a $1 million CDBG grant to improve the aging waterlines on Jackson Street. The city committed an additional $351,908 of local funds. 

Photos by Howard Owens.

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City Council approves $50K for new fire vehicle after 4-year-old goes 'ka-put'

By Joanne Beck
new chief's vehicle batavia fire
Photo by Howard Owens

Less than five years in, and Batavia Fire Chief Josh Graham’s vehicle — used for emergency response and transportation — went “ka-put,” City Manager Rachael Tabelski says.

The 2020 Ford Explorer had many mechanical issues, including the transmission, which rendered it out of commission for several weeks. There is no estimated time of return. 

“We thought it was under warranty, we then found out that it wasn’t, and it’s still in the shop for repair,” Tabelski said during this week’s City Council conference meeting. “We also found out that the same make and model will have a full engine replacement that will be needed at any time here, and for an extended period of time, there won’t be a chief’s vehicle.”

All that is to say the city is on the hook for another vehicle, at a cost of up to $50,000.

Graham has been driving the city manager’s vehicle, which does not have the appropriate lights and sirens required by New York State, as well as necessary safety measures for emergency vehicles, he said. 

At least one red light must be displayed and visible under normal "atmospheric conditions" from 500 feet away from an authorized emergency vehicle in any direction.

He even tried to use the red and white light from his dash, but that “didn’t really work,” he said.

“So we did make an emergency vehicle purchase from the town of Shelby, which is like a new condition for $30,000, and this resolution would be to memorialize the use of reserves for that vehicle,” Tabelski said.

Graham estimated that a new truck, after being upfitted, would cost between $75,000 and $85,000.

Councilman Bob Bialkowski had done some research on the Ford Explorer brand and found that “over 90,000 trucks” had problems with burning and breaking the valves. “So it’s a major problem,” he said.

Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. added that they’re talking about a piece of equipment and “not just a vehicle … driving you to the scene.” Once there, that vehicle becomes a “mini command post” with emergency equipment, a radio, “your necessary stuff,” he said.

Graham chose a 2015 Chevy Tahoe, “but it was not used as a chase vehicle, so it wasn’t a daily driver,” he said. “It was in the station, used as an EMS vehicle, and I have not seen a vehicle that has only 16,000 miles on it, and I have not seen a vehicle that is this well taken care of as could be.”

A search by The Batavian found on bannerchevy.com’s used Tahoe buying guide that the 2015 Tahoe has had issues with the A/C system, flashing interior lights, and dashboard cracks.

Tabelski approved it as an “emergency purchase” and asked the City Council to vote on a resolution to transfer $50,000 from appropriated reserves to the fire department equipment reserves.

During a business meeting that followed, council members unanimously approved the transfer of funds not to exceed $50,000. The fire department equipment reserve has a balance of $867,092.

Le Roy Central School District faces fiscal challenges with $32 Million budget proposal

By Howard B. Owens
merritt holly le roy board
Superintendent Merritt Holly speaks to the Le Roy Central School District Board of Trustees during a budgt public hearing on Tuesday at Wolcott School.
Photo by Howard Owens.

The Le Roy Central School District is bracing for difficult financial decisions as it asks voters to approve a $32,035,588 budget for the 2025-26 school year.

Spending is projected to increase 3.18%, or $986,768. 

Superintendent Merritt Holly, speaking Tuesday night at a public hearing on the proposed budget in the Wolcott School auditorium, outlined a budget shaped by rising costs, staff reductions, and heavy reliance on state funding.

The district’s proposed tax levy is $10,800,650, an increase of 1.25%, keeping Le Roy under the state’s tax cap. However, the district is feeling the squeeze from inflation, escalating health insurance premiums, and contractual obligations, including a new teacher contract and higher special education expenses.

Holly noted, as he did in the district's budget newsletter, the district has no say in or control over property tax assessments.

The estimated tax rates for the municipalities that overlap with the district:

  • Bergen and Pavilion, $15.76
  • Caledonia, $16.77
  • Le Roy, $16.95
  • Stafford, $17.51

One of the most significant impacts: staffing. Six retirements are expected, but only two positions will be replaced. This is a shift from previous years, when Le Roy was able to add staff while neighboring districts made cuts. 

“The impact is being felt most at Wolcott Street School, where we're not replacing four of six retirees," Holly said. "It will directly affect students and staff.”

Enrollment is currently 1,103 students, down 114 students since 2016. Enrollment affects the district's share of state aid.

"When you look at the Jr./Sr. high school, we have one of our smaller senior classes that we've had in a while, at least in my time," Holly said.

There are 81 seniors.

The district is reliant on state aid. Holly said 63% of Le Roy’s budget comes from Albany, far more than in wealthier suburban districts. 

“We’re not like the Monroe County schools that can tap into their tax base to close gaps,” Holly said. “We rely heavily on state aid, and any changes at the state or federal level could have a big impact here.”

Holly noted, as he did with The Batavian in March, that there are 152 unfunded state mandates, including the looming requirement for electric school buses and costly special education placements, as well as ongoing budget pressures. Inflation has also hit utility costs and other essentials. 

“We’re all competing for the same teachers, and we’re all feeling the pinch from rising costs,” he said.

The superintendent also warned of federal uncertainty, noting that political debates in Washington could threaten funding streams like Title 1, which supports students from low-income families. 

“We can’t sit and worry about politics, but we have to plan and prepare for whatever comes,” Holly said.

Despite these fiscal challenges, the district has historically enjoyed strong community backing for its budgets, the superintendent noted. This year’s ballot also includes a $379,000 proposition for the Woodward Memorial Library and the uncontested re-election of two Board of Education members.

Author delves into life of Batavia's notorious brothel owner, Edna Gruber

By Howard B. Owens
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Author David Kinney with his new book, "Batavia's Disorderly House," about Edna Gruber.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Edna Gruber, Batavia's notorious madam who operated a brothel at 101 Jackson St., Batavia, in the middle of the 20th century, is finally the subject of a book about her life.

With a dab of local scandal and a dash of historical intrigue, David Kinney’s new book, "Batavia’s Disorderly House," shines a fresh light on Gruber. 

On Tuesday, Kinney, a Washington, D.C. resident, was at Eli Fish Brewing Company for a book signing.

Kinney recounted how a story about Gruber getting roughed up at Horseshoe Lake first piqued his curiosity, setting him on a year-long journey to untangle the real story behind Batavia’s so-called “most famous madam.”

Kinney, whose previous work explored the history of Horseshoe Lake, explained that much of what was known about Gruber came from a 1996 "Genesee Country Magazine" article. That account, he said, he found riddled with errors and gaps, especially regarding Gruber’s early years and family background. 

“Many of the things in that article were incorrect,” Kinney said, noting that even Gruber’s granddaughter had been shielded from the true nature of Edna’s business, and family lore was often just plain wrong.

Born Edna Geyer in Buffalo in 1882, Gruber’s early life was marked by hardship. By 13, she was scrubbing floors in barrooms, and she married twice -- first to Joseph Gruber at just 15. 

How she transitioned from these humble beginnings to become the proprietor of Batavia’s most infamous brothel was, until now, a mystery even to her descendants. 

Kinney’s research, however, has resolved the question of how Edna entered the business and uncovered a significant family secret. 

“Most of even the family didn’t know she had a brother, and her brother played a significant role (in her entering the business),” he said.

Gruber’s establishment, regularly raided during Prohibition, was notorious for its clientele and Edna’s ability to retain top legal counsel and pay handsomely for it. Despite her reputation, she was also known for acts of local charity, complicating her legacy in the community.

Kinney said his book will provide new insights into a woman who defied the conventions -- and the censure -- of her time.

Previously: Edna's 'house of ill-repute' funded madam's charity to the community, by Anne Marie Starowitz

It's grass cutting season, raising the risk for motorcyclists from clippings in roadways

By Howard B. Owens
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Grass clippings on Evans Street, Batavia
Photo by Howard Owens.

For motorcyclists, a swath of grass clippings on a roadway is summer's version of black ice.

It appears unexpectedly and causes the bike to lose traction, which can result in serious crashes—bikes flipping onto their sides, veering off the roadway, and striking other vehicles.

Trooper Lynnea Crane with New York State Police told RochesterFirst in 2023 that crashes caused by grass clippings can be deadly.

“A lot of police officers will contact homeowners or the person blowing grass into the roadway and just let them know they need to remove it,” she said.

Batavia resident and motorcycle enthusiast Gordo Montgomery asked The Batavian to remind residents of the dangers of grass clippings. 

Under Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 1219(b), it is illegal to drop or permit any material, including grass clippings, that interferes with the safe use of a highway. Anyone responsible must remove it immediately. Section 1220(a) further prohibits dumping or placing any refuse, trash, or litter on highways

The danger is rising as the number of motorcyclists on New York roads has doubled since 2002. Environmental factors, including debris like grass clippings, account for roughly a quarter of motorcycle and car crashes. There are more than 750,000 licensed motorcyclists in the state.

The solution is straightforward, according to experts -- never blow or leave grass clippings in the street. Point mower chutes away from the road, sweep up any stray clippings, and consider composting or mulching them on your property, where they can benefit your lawn.

Batavia Players stage classic rock opera, 'Jesus Christ Superstar'

By Howard B. Owens
batavia playes jesus christ superstar
Photo by Howard Owens.

 Batavia Players bring "Jesus Christ Superstar," a pioneering rock opera, to the Main St. 56 Theater with four shows this weekend.

Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice wrote and scored "Jesus Christ Superstar." It dramatizes the final week of Jesus’ life, focusing on his relationships with his disciples, especially Judas Iscariot and Mary Magdalene. The story is told largely from Judas’ perspective, exploring his concerns about Jesus’ growing influence and the potential consequences from Roman authorities. 

The musical began as a concept album released in 1970, with the stage musical debuting on Broadway in 1971. The show broke new ground by blending rock music with theater, helping to establish the rock opera genre. 

The production is directed by Patrick Burk.

Showtimes:

  • Friday, 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, 2 and 7:30 p.m.
  • Sunday, 2 p.m.
 Tickets are $22 and $20 for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door (if not sold out).
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Elijah VanEpps as Jesus
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Ian Cannioto as Judas
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Eric Zwieg as Pontius Pilate
Photo by Howard Owens.
Erin Stamp as Mary Magdalene
Erin Stamp as Mary Magdalene
Photo by Howard Owens
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Anthony Haitz as High Priest Caiaphas
Photo by Howard Owens.
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The Sanhedrin
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Disciples
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Photo by Howard Owens.
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Photo by Howard Owens
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Sophie Houseman as Annas
Photo by Howard Owens.

Annual recognition luncheon honors Batavia Police Department members and community partners

By Press Release
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Submitted photo.

Press Release:

The City of Batavia Police Department held its annual recognition luncheon on April 30 acknowledging the outstanding achievements and contributions of its members, as well as community partners, over the past year. 

During the event, the department recognized individuals and groups of officers/detectives who demonstrated exceptional bravery, heroism, or furthered the mission of the City of Batavia and Police Department. 

The following is a list of those recognized:

Letters of Recognition 

  • Sharon Nuwer - Cleaner for the Department 

Sharon was recognized for her dedication to the Department and it's members by ensuring a clean, safe and healthy environment for everyone. 

  • Supervisor Brett Stevenson of the City of Batavia Department of Public Works

Brett was recognized for his assistance in facilitating events and celebrations over the years in his role as supervisor at the Bureau of Maintenance. Brett has coordinated with many officers and supervisors to make these events go smooth. 

Department Honor Guard members:   

  • Detective Sgt. Matt Lutey   
  • Detective Eric Hill   
  • Detective Jason Ivison   
  • Detective James DeFreze   
  • Officer Connor Borchert   
  • Officer William Yung

All members of the Honor Guard exemplify the professionalism and dedication to the department in times of remembrance as well as times of celebration.  There dedication to attend multiple events throughout the year is respected and appreciated.

Firearms Instructors:

  • Sergeant Arick Perkins
  • Officer Samuel Freeman 

Both Sergeant Perkins and Officer Freeman have worked diligently to improve the firearms program through a variety of engaging activities while still maintaining a positive training atmosphere.

Accreditation Manager:

  • Officer Richard Messmer 

Awarded for contributions to the accreditation program in 2024. Officer Messmer has worked diligently on this to ensure the department obtains its accredited status and is set to have the program evaluated soon. Certificates of Commendation 

NET Officers:

  • Officer John Gombos
  • Officer Joseph Weglarski 

In recognition of their efforts during an investigation into the transport and sales of illegal drugs in the City of Batavia resulting in several felony level charges. 

  • Sergeant Arick Perkins
  • Officer Adam Tucker
  • Officer Bryan Moscicki
  • Officer Samuel Freeman
  • Detective Eric Hill 

In recognition of their efforts during the investigation into a fatal motor vehicle accident that occurred in August of 2024.

  • Detective Sergeant Matt Lutey
  • Sergeant Arick Perkins
  • Officer Richard Messmer
  • Officer Joseph Weglarski
  • Detective Matthew Wojtaszczyk
  • Detective Jason Ivison
  • Detective Eric Hill
  • Detective Stephen Cronmiller
  • Detective James DeFreze 

In recognition for your efforts in the line of duty death investigation of Genesee County Sheriff Sergeant Thomas Sanfratello.

Life Saving Award 

  • Officer Samuel Freeman
  • Officer Bryan Moscicki 

In recognition of their actions to prolong the life of an individual who had stopped breathing and was in cardiac arrest in December of 2024. 

Meritorious Service Award 

Detective Eric Hill 

Awarded in recognition of his service to the City of Batavia Police Department for the past 20 years as a Police Officer, Youth Detective, PIO and resident IT consultant. 

Citizen Commendation Award 

Grace Baptist Church 

Awarded to Grace Baptist Church in recognition by the City of Batavia Police Department to your dedication to furthering the department's professional development through your generosity and approachability.  

Officer of the Year 

Officer Andrew Mruczek 

Officer Mruczek has been given this award based upon several factors which were submitted by several members of the department. In the nomination letters it was noted that Officer Mruczek is the “ideal team player” with an unwavering sense of loyalty to his fellow officers and the public. Officer Mruczek also demonstrates his commitment to learning, self-improvement and executing police duties on a consistent daily basis. Officer Mruczek was also recognized for his diligence in seeing investigations through to completion. Also noted was Officer Mruczek's ability to handle critical incidents in an exemplary manner. Throughout these nominations it was referenced several times that Officer Mruczek is a true professional that exemplifies what it means to be a police officer in the City of Batavia. 

This annual event serves as a testament to the department's commitment to acknowledging and appreciating the hard work and selflessness of its members, as well as the invaluable contributions of its community partners. Congratulations to all the recipients and thank you for your service.

Genesee County Health Department seeks cat and owner after bite incident in Batavia Cemetery

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee County Health Department is seeking information about the location of a cat and its owner following a cat bite incident on Thursday, May 8 around 6 p.m. The incident occurred in the Batavia Cemetery (65 Harvester Avenue in Batavia) directly across the street from The Harvester Center.

The cat involved in the incident was running free in the cemetery. It was described as a grey tiger cat of average size with medium-length hair, wearing a collar with two tags-one blue and one black.

The health department would like to locate the cat as soon as possible to confirm that it is healthy. This would indicate that the rabies virus would not have been transmitted at the time of the bite.

If you have information about the location of the cat and its owner, please contact the Genesee County Health Department at 585-344-2580 ext. 5555.

Blue Heeler missing from Bergen area

By Joanne Beck
Blue heeler missing


This Blue Heeler has been missing since Saturday from Griswold Road in Bergen area. He is 4 years old and needs seizure medication, as the seizures can disorient him. Do not chase or call out to him, but please call or text any sightings of him to 585-630-8262.

Top Items on Batavia's List

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