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Working industrial fire on West Main Street Road in Batavia, hazmat team responding

By Joanne Beck
Hodgins Fire
Photo by Howard Owens

Heavy smoke can be seen as part of a working industrial fire at Hodgins Engraving Friday, as reported by The Batavian at the scene. There have been two explosions in the building, and everyone has been evacuated as of noon. 

A hazmat team was called in and a residence next to the business, at 3817 W. Main Street Road, Batavia, was also being evacuated. 

Town of Batavia Fire and City of Batavia Fire departments responded to the scene, and East Pembroke, Elba, Alexander and Stafford fire companies are also responding to the scene. Bennington and Albion responded a short time later.

Genesee County Jail is being used as shelter in place mode for now, officials said. Route 5 is being closed in both directions, at Lewiston and Kelsey roads.

Tankers from Darien, Corfu and Attica are at the scene. Extra water is needed, and a five-inch line was run across the road from the creek, since Route 5 was shut down. 

Animals from Genesee County Animal Shelter are being moved to the fairgrounds Perry Pet in Batavia.

Update 2:25 p.m.: Oakfield, Alabama and Pavilion fire companies are on scene, Mercy EMS is on standby, and a ladder truck from Clarence has been requested. State fire, Genesee County Sheriff's Office and State Police are all on scene.


Photos by Howard Owens

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Animals evacuated at Hodgins fire

Culinary Institute grad to add breakfast, lunch, bread, dessert -- 'a little bit of all of it' to GO ART! bakery

By Joanne Beck
audrey-s-bakery-go-art
Grace Greene is bringing her CIA-game to Audrey 2.0.1 Bakery at Seymour Place, located inside GO ART!, 201 E. Main St., Batavia, Thursdays through Saturdays.
Photo by Howard Owens

What are the odds of two bakers with the same last name applying for a position at GO ART!’s Audrey 2.0.1 Bakery at Seymour Place? As it turns out, the odds were in the arts council’s favor, and both landed a sweet — and savory—spot in the fully equipped kitchen at 201 E. Main St., Batavia.

While Kiel Green opened up shop at the bakery last September as part of an Artist Incubator Program to hone his skills, Grace Greene also sent in her resume for a position as she was completing her degree at the Culinary Institute of America. One could say she brought her CIA game.

“So, I actually originally applied for just the baking position, and (Executive Director) Gregory Hallock ended up seeing my resume after they had hired the last person. And so he ended up being like, 'Hmm, you know, maybe she can take on a little bit more.' So they ended up welcoming me in and starting a new job description, basically. So I kind of am overseeing everything in the kitchen as well as I'm going to eventually make it into the bar area and work on some mixed drinks and specialty items on that side of things too, because I took a mixology, a wines class and a beer-making class at school, so I have a background in a little bit of all of it,“ Greene said on her first day open Thursday. “We'll definitely have the sandwiches next week, and then we'll probably tack on one at a time in the following weeks. And then I'm also working on a breakfast menu for Saturdays, so we'll have things like waffles, pancakes, breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast. And then I'm also going to make fresh doughnuts every Saturday as well. So we'll have a few different options, and then hopefully a specialty.”

Greene, who moved back to Rochester after finishing culinary school in Hyde Park, obtained her bachelor’s in professional studies with a concentration in baking and pastry. She graduated on April 16 and made a quick move back in with family to take this job, with the intention to move closer by the fall, she said. 

The 25-year-old did a lot of hands-on training, working in a bakery and for a large restaurant in Poughkeepsie, she said, finessing handmade dough into stuffed dumplings by being in charge of making 700 pierogi each week. (So don’t be surprised if this Polish specialty makes it on the menu eventually.)

For those who have missed the aroma and taste of fresh baked bread, that’s “my favorite thing,” she said: a tall, airy house focaccia with sautéed onions and garlic, and her own version of a glaze-topped cinnamon roll focaccia, brioche, rustic baguettes, ciabatta, sour dough and a rye sour. They will be available for purchase and as the base for future build-your-own sandwiches with assorted meats, cheeses, and toppings, a turkey club, and bruschetta topped with tomatoes, onions, olive oil, salt, pepper, and then topped off with fresh mozzarella.

What is it about making your own bread?
“It’s really just, since it is so hands-on, relative to other things, finally getting that product and seeing what you made with your hands, is just great to see,” she said. “It’s a lot of waiting around, it's on its own time, you can't rush it. I feel like a lot of times, people don't let it, at the very end, proof long enough, and that's when you get it popping out and all that kind of stuff. So it's really a hurry up and wait kind of thing.”

Soups will begin with a chicken noodle and perhaps a cheddar broccoli, garden vegetable, or classic Caesar with homemade croutons for salads, with homemade dressings. For the sweet tooth? Large sugar cookies, cakes, brownies, brookies — a crunchy creamy combination of a chocolate chip cookie layered with Oreos in the center and topped with brownie mix  — muffins, cupcakes, special orders of decorated cakes, cupcakes, the increasingly popular Rice Krispie treats, cake pops, and bridal or baby shower dessert boxes, and that's probably not even the exhaustive list, as she will work with customers for special requests.

There will also be espresso and regular drip coffee, decaf, French roast, and latte drinks with — you may have guessed it — house-made caramel and chocolate sauces. Speaking of made in-house, Greene will be whipping up her own butter for the bagels, waffles and pancakes.

She plans to tack on Sundays to the three-day schedule at some point as part of future expansion of hours and days “as things go forward.” Other goal are to:  work with some culinary arts students from Genesee Valley BOCES to allow them hands-on experience and offer more variety to the community as they learn. There are likely to be cake and cupcake decorating classes for adults and children, and more opportunities “to have people in the kitchen” learning, she said.

"There's actually a couple of students over at the BOCES program who we were thinking about bringing in kind of as a mentorship or part-time work. One of them is very much into adapting recipes and making them healthier by substituting flours and sugar types, and all kinds of things. So I have a background in all of it," Greene said. "But the one thing with school is, basically, every three weeks we'd switch classes. You only had a three-week period to get exposed to all of the different types of things. So I have a good groundwork for everything, but there's definitely a lot that I still need to explore on my own."

As for her own mentor, Greene’s favorite cooking show was “Cake Boss” as a kid, she said, though “no one really presented it as a career for me.”

“So when I was kind of in between jobs, I was like, what do I do? I’ve gotta figure something out. And I decided to apply to the CIA (Culinary Institute of America),” she said “And once I got in, I was like, well, we’re gonna really go for it then, all places, definitely, to really absorb as much as you can and learn as much as you can as well.”

Hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.

She is working on the menu, which will be available, along with options for take-out, HERE.

Photos by Howard Owens.

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Baseball: Five-run third propels Batavia to sixth-straight win

By Staff Writer
 Brady Mazur gets the win at the mound as Batavia defeats Sutherland Wednesday afternoon at Dwyer Stadium.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Brady Mazur gets the win at the mound as Batavia defeats Sutherland Wednesday afternoon at Dwyer Stadium.  Photo by Steve Ognibene

Batavia continued its winning ways of late, notching it sixth-straight victory on Wedensday over Pittsford-Sutherland, 6-3.

The Blue Devils were buoyed by a five-run third inning.

Brady Mazur went the distance for the win, giving up three runs on six hits while striking out five.

Batavia Offense: 

  • Brock Bigsby,   2-3, run scored, 2 RBIs
  • Bronx Buchholz, 1-2, RBI
  • Lakoda Mruczek, 1-3, run scored
  • Maggio Buchholz, 1-2, 2 runs scored, stolen base
  • Brady Mazur, RBI
  • Jameson Motyka, RBI

"Brady was clutch today, getting ahead of hitters and challenging them all day," said Coach Michael Sputore. "He got out of a big jam in the first inning after giving up two, and settled in down the stretch. 

"We've gotten quality starts from our pitching staff, which has resulted in alot of wins for us."

Batavia is now 7-3 on the season.

They travel to Canadaigua on Friday. Game time is 5:30 p.m.

To view or purchase photos, click here.

 Photo by Steve Ognibene
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Photos: Rain-soaked anti-Trump protest

By Howard B. Owens
anti-trump-protest batavia ny

People across the nation on Thursday participated in a protest against the policies of the Trump Administration, including in Batavia.

The protest was scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. The Batavian did not arrive until 7:20 p.m., when about 50 people were still present.

One protester said there had been a much larger group of protesters at the start of the protest, but thunderclouds and rain had left "only the diehards."

Photos by Howard Owens.

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anti-trump-protest batavia ny

Father Kulzcyk returns to inspire faith formation families

By Press Release
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Press Release:

Batavia High Class of 2010 graduate and past parishioner of Sacred Heart/Ascension, Father Aaron Kulzcyk, joined our final Resurrection and Ascension Family Faith Formation Session to discuss how God calls us all to use our gifts and talents.

Submitted photos.

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Batavia Rotary Club high school baseball tournament is Saturday at Dwyer Stadium

By Press Release
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Photos of team captains from LeRoy, Notre Dame and Oakfield at the luncheon at Batavia's Original. Missing were Batavia's captains Brady Carney, Bronx Buchholtz and Jameson Motyka.
Submitted photo.

Press Release:

The 25th Annual Batavia Rotary Club High School Baseball Tournament will take place Saturday, May 3 at Dwyer Stadium with a rain date of Sunday, May 4.

Oakfield-Alabama and Notre Dame will play in the first game at 11 a.m. followed by Le Roy vs Batavia at 1 p.m. The Consolation Game will be at 4 p.m. with the Championship Game at 7 p.m. 

An All-Day Admission Pass is $5 for an adult and $3 for a student or senior. Cash or Venmo will be accepted for payment. All proceeds from the tournament will help benefit Batavia Rotary Club charities.

Youth ages 12 and under will get in free if they wear their baseball or softball uniforms to any of the games and attend with a parent/adult family member.

Any Challenger Sports athletes and Unified Sports athletes will get in free if they wear their uniform or t-shirt and come with a parent/adult family member or adult caregiver. 

We look forward to seeing the community come out to cheer on our local athletes!

Sponsored Post: Picker's Paradise kicks off this weekend at the David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena

By Sponsored Post
Picker's Paradise

Roll into May at the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena! We’re bringing the energy with a full lineup of fun for all ages! Public Roller Skating starts Friday, May 2nd from 7:30 PM- 9PM. Join us Friday & Saturday nights – just $8 admission and $3 rentals!

We’ve got quad skates and brand NEW roller blades in our rental fleet this year – or bring your own! Want to skate more often? Grab a Public Skating Membership: Individual: $25 start-up | $20/month. Family: $40 start-up | $30/month. (Includes pickleball too!)

Sunday, May 4th | 10 AM – 4 PM It’s Picker’s Paradise – “A Foodie’s Day in May!” FREE Admission, $1 Sahlen’s Hot Dogs. Tons of local vendors. Vendor spots still open! Details here

Pickleball starts Monday, May 5th! Every Mon, Wed & Fri from 9 AM – 12 PM. Individual Membership: $25 start-up | $20/month. Family Membership: $40 start-up | $30/month. (Also Includes roller skating!) $8 day pass 

Let’s roll! Skates are ready… are you? See you at the rink! Visit our Facebook page & stay up to date on what's happening!

Big Brother hopefuls pack Park Place at Batavia Downs

By Howard B. Owens
batavia downs big brother auditions
Tacido Curry, center, with friends Alexis and Kealy.
Photo by Howard Owens

Could one of the people you see in these photos be the next Steve Moses, the 2015 winner of the CBS reality series Big Brother?

More than 300 people turned up at Batavia Downs on Wednesday to try and repeat what Moses did in the show's 17th season when Moses won slot as a constant through an audition at Batavia Downs.

"He was from the Fredonia area, but he was going to college in St Lawrence up by Alexandria Bay. and of course, we're on the way right. Batavia is right on the Thruway, so he timed his run after spring break to be here for the audition," said Ryan Hasenauer, vice president of business development for Western Regional Off-Track Betting.

Channel 8 out of Rochester, a CBS affiliate, ran the auditions, which involved potential contestants waiting their turn to step into a black-curtained booth to be filmed making their pitch to the show's producers. The video will be screened by the producers and the finalist selected.

"Some people are very reserved, and a lot of people are Type A's like me, where they're very loud about it," Hasenauer said. "They get excited, and like that young lady was saying that you were talking to earlier, she was somebody who's watched the show for a long time, 12 years. Some of these people are geared up to do it. It's an exciting thing for us."

That young lady was Chelsea Dezuko, from Buffalo.

"I've been watching Big Brother since I was maybe, like, 13," Dezuko said. "It's something that me, my mom, my sister, we would do together. We would get together, sit on the living room couch. It was like the one excuse that we got to stay up late for school, like past our bedtime."

Big Brother is really the only reality TV series she's watched.

"Honestly, I'm not a huge reality TV person, but Big Brother just feels different," she said. "I feel like there are people of all walks of life who enter the Big Brother house. I love the competitions. Like one of my Big Brother idols is probably Nicole F. She's won the show before."

Tacido Curry, from New York City, was in Batavia to take his second shot at auditioning for Big Brother. He returned from a trip to Brazil to make it to the audition. 

"I'm one of a kind," Curry said. "I'm a little bit different, so I needed to be on the show."

And he likes his shot.

"I've watched all the seasons, so I wish I were there all the time," Curry said. "I have a very strong personality. I lived in many countries. I am a world survivor. I survived lots of crazy things in my life. I was kidnapped three times. I was in the World Trade Center. I survived the tsunami and the fires of Notre Dame. I'm sure I can survive in the big house. I have a big resume, you know, to share with people and provoke people, too."

Chris Hadlock, from Victor, thinks he's got the resume for a slot on the show as well.

"I've been doing this stuff my whole life," Hadlock said. "I was a professional musician for 30 years. Now, I'm a helicopter pilot. I kind of miss the limelight a little bit, so if I can entertain the crowd, you know what I mean, on a national level, let's do it."

Photo by Howard Owens
Chelsea Dezuko, from Buffalo, in the audition booth.
Photo by Howard Owens
batavia downs big brother auditions
Chris Hadlock, resident of Victor.
Photo by Howard Owens
batavia downs big brother auditions
Photo by Howard Owens
batavia downs big brother auditions
Photo by Howard Owens

Temp closure, renovations delayed for Batavia Social Security office

By Press Release
batavia social security

Press Release:

The Batavia Social Security office located at 571 East Main Street, Batavia, NY, will remain open on Thursday, May 1, and Friday, May 2. The office was scheduled to be closed temporarily for these two days due to space renovations. The renovations have been temporarily delayed due to a facility issue.   

You may continue to call the Batavia Social Security office at 1-866-931-7103.  Social Security office hours are from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.    

Social Security’s customers can now make appointments for all types of services instead of waiting in line, resulting in a better overall experience and reductions in wait times. 

Customers can still wait in line if they cannot or do not want to make an appointment.  Staff at local offices are particularly mindful of vulnerable populations, people with disabilities, and other groups that need specialized or immediate attention when they walk in.  People can schedule an appointment by calling their local office (recommended) or 1-800-772-1213, which also has a call-back feature.  People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call Social Security’s TTY number, 1-800-325-0778.

'May Day' protest scheduled for Thursday at City Hall in Batavia

By Press Release
anti-trump-protest batavia ny
2025 File Photo from a previous protest outside of City Hall earlier this year. 
Photo by Howard Owens

Press Release

Organizers have announced this week that nearly 100,000 workers, immigrants, students, and families are expected to rally in nearly 1,300 events in more than 1,000 cities nationally, according to a Mobilize on May Day press release.

An event is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at City Hall in downtown Batavia.

"States like Iowa have nearly 90 actions statewide, with actions happening in all 50 states, commonwealths, and internationally," organizers said. "The protests are a direct response to the 'Billionaire Agenda' and are a demand for a country that invests in working families — not billionaire profits."

Workers in certain cities, like the Oakland teachers, have authorized one day strikes to challenge cuts and participate in the national day of action, the release stated. On the 100th day of the Trump Administration, families nationwide are already facing cuts to Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare, and education — while billionaires reap massive tax breaks and record profits. May Day 2025 will unite working people across race, immigration status, and geography to demand:

  • An end to the billionaire takeover and government corruption;
  • Full funding for public schools, healthcare, and housing;
  • Protection and expansion of Medicaid, Social Security, and other essential programs;
  • A halt to attacks on immigrants, Black, Indigenous, trans, and other targeted communities;
  • Strong union protections, fair wages, and dignity for all workers.

A commitment to nonviolent action is a core principle of all May Day events, the release stated. All hosts and participants are expected to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who may disagree.

A full list of May Day events nationwide is available at https://www.mobilize.us/mayday/.

Softball: Batavia mercy's Mendon 13-1 in five innings at home

By Staff Writer
 Batavia softball celebrates a 13-1 victory monday afternoon on Anderson field at Batavia High school and picks up their second win of the season.   Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Batavia softball celebrates a 13-1 victory Monday afternoon on Anderson Field at Batavia High School and picks up their second win of the season.
Photo by Steve Ognibene

Batvaia defeated Pittsford-Mendon in softball on Monday, 13-1, with the game being called under the mercy rule at the end of the fifth inning.

The Lady Devils are now 2-5. Mendon is 2-6.

The winning pitcher was Ariana Almekinder, who gave up only three hits while striking out four.

Offense:

  • Libby Grazioplene, 2-3, 3 RBIs
  • Drew Stevens, 3-4, 4 RBIs
  • Hannah Carney, 3-4, 3 RBIs
  • Gabby Smith, 2-2
  • Kyleigh Kabel and Lyla Smith both had hits 

"The girls really came out hitting today," said Coach Robert Kersch. "Ariana Almekinder was solid on the mound, allowing only three hits. Defense also had a strong outing today, making the putouts when needed. Hannah Carney had her 100th varsity hit Friday at Attica and continued her hot hitting today with a 3-4 three-RBI outing. Stevens and Grazioplene both were strong at the plate today and have been all season. We have a young team that continues to stay positive, have each other’s backs, and continues to grow as a team."

To view or purchase photos, click here.

 Photo by Steve Ognibene
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Flag Football: Batavia loses to Churchville 18-6

By Staff Writer
Batavia comes up short Monday afternoon versus Churchville-Chili losing 18-6   Photo by Steve Ognibene
Batavia comes up short Monday afternoon versus Churchville-Chili losing 18-6   Photo by Steve Ognibene

Press release:

The Batavia Lady Blue Devils lost to Churchville-Chili 18-6 on Monday evening in Flag Football.

Quarterback Jaimin Macdonald was 17-30 passing for 120 yards, 1 TD, and 3 INTs.  Macdonald also led the team in rushing with 20 yards on six carries.  Wide receiver Leilah Manuel had four receptions for 55 yards, with a 37-yard touchdown reception from Macdonald.  Nicole Doeringer added four receptions for 49 yards.

Defensively, Macdonald led the team with eight flag pulls, 3 for loss from her inside linebacker position.  Manuel and Kylee Brennan added seven flag pulls each, with Brennan adding two passes defended.  

The Lady Blue Devils fall to 3-3 with four regular-season games remaining.  On Friday, May 2, Batavia will host Spencerport for Senior Night at VanDetta Stadium at 6 p.m.

 

To view or purchase photos, click here.

 Photo by Steve Ognibene
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Just Kings joins with GO ART! for a growing Juneteenth Celebration this June

By Joanne Beck
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File Photo of 2024 Juneteenth Celebration at Williams Park in Batavia.
Photo by Howard Owens

With four festivals under its belt, and a new one added this year, GO ART! needed a designated special events coordinator, Gregory Hallock says, and tacked the extra duties and label onto Social Media Director Courtney Henderson’s title.

Henderson has taken on this year’s Just Kings' Juneteenth Celebration Festival, in collaboration with Just Kings, a grassroots group that has been organizing fundraisers and giveaways in Batavia for the last several years. With a growing event to celebrate Juneteenth, Just Kings organizers wanted to pool resources and also use GO ART!’s nonprofit status for donations and sponsorships, Hallock and Henderson said on Monday.

“It’s growing, and they’re a group of volunteers trying to make that happen,” Hallock, GO ART!’s executive director, said. “They’re growing to secure its continued success and wanted to go with a nonprofit to make sure that happens. We want this to happen, we’re just helping to make that happen, and we will have a booth at Juneteenth as well.”

Working with a 501(c)(3) means that any donations and sponsorships can be declared as tax write-offs, Hallock said, which is helpful to organizations and businesses. 

GO ART! has been a supporter of the Juneteenth celebration for several years, said Greg Munroe, one of the event's organizers.

"After the first or second year, GO ART! reached out and wanted to help us out, and they helped us get a grant, I want to say, like three years ago," Munroe said. "To this point, that grant has basically run out. We're looking for funding help, and we've reached out to GO ART! again. They said they would love to collaborate with us."

Henderson has been particularly helpful with social media and promotion, and helping bring together some funding for the event.

Just Kings is still running the event, he said.

While Juneteenth, the nationally recognized holiday, is on June 19, this event is set for noon to 8 p.m. on June 14, which is a Saturday. (Being Pride month, there will also be a related event going on that day at Jackson Square.)

“We’ll have a sign at each event asking people to support both,” Hallock said. “We’re working on adding a bunch of educational and art components to Juneteenth.”

Last year’s event was busy with vendors and attendees, music and food, and this year should not disappoint, Henderson said. She welcomes applications from nonprofits, businesses, food trucks and booths, and musicians.

“I am in the search right now for a storyteller, an enthusiastic storyteller for kids, who can give educational tales as part of our entertainment/culture portion," she said. "We're also looking into trivia, like toy trivia when it comes to black inventors -- did you know the Super Soaker was invented by a black man? And I know we're looking into getting a double Dutch team, okay, and we're trying to find a step team.

“We are asking for anybody who is a food vendor to have at least one item that culturally represents the black community, and that obviously can vary widely based on what they serve," she said. "But that will also flow with the educational portion. That way, there’s education throughout the entire event."

On June 19, 1865, enslaved people in Texas received official emancipation, marking the end of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth is celebrated annually, often with parades, parties and festivals that highlight African American history and culture.

"GO ART! is excited to host just King's Juneteenth Celebration Festival, a day dedicated to honoring freedom, unity, and the rich cultural heritage of Juneteenth," Henderson said.

On the group’s social media site, Just Kings invites folks to “celebrate freedom, culture, and community at this vibrant, family-friendly event in the heart of downtown Batavia! Enjoy live music, African drumming, spoken word, food trucks, Black-owned vendors, art, history, and kids’ activities — all honoring the legacy and significance of Juneteenth.

Munroe said that anyone who would like to donate in support of the event can contact Just Kings directly. If the donor seeks the tax benefit of a charitable donation, donations can be made through GO ART!

“Bring the whole family for a day of joy, learning, and connection,” organizers state. “Let's celebrate Black excellence, community strength, and the power of unity!”

The deadline for vendor and food vendor submissions is May 15. For more information, email festivals@goart.org.

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2024 File Photo of Juneteenth Celebration at Williams Park in Batavia.
Photo by Howard Owens

Salvatore's opens pizzeria at Lewiston and West Main in Batavia

By Howard B. Owens
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Kari and Kevin Consaul, owners of the Salvatore's Pizzeria location in Batavia that opened on Monday, cut a ceremonial ribbon with the help of their children, Lukas, 16, Leightyn, 7, and Levi, 14, as well as Keith Counsaul.
Photo by Howard Owens.

The Salvatore's Pizzeria chain, with more than 30 restaurants in the Rochester region, celebrated the opening of its first location in Genesee County, at Lewiston and West Main, Batavia, on Monday.

The new owners of the location are Kevin and Kari Consaul of Churchville.

Kevin said he's excited to open in Batavia because of the warm welcome he's received from the community.

"Over the past eight months, I witnessed vibrant energy throughout Batavia, in this community," Kevin said. "That lets me know that we made the right decision to be in Batavia -- things like, 'when are you opening,' and 'I love this pink roof,' and the best is, 'I love your pizza.'"

Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, go HERE or call 585-250-4004.

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Kevin and Kari Consaul, owners of the Salvatore's Pizzeria location in Batavia.
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Photo by Howard Owens.
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Salvatore's Chloe Mansfield.
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Photo by Howard Owens.

HLOM has full slate of May events with history talks, concerts, and Trivia Night as of Saturday

By Press Release
File Photo of the DSP Trio, set for a return at 7 p.m. May 16 at Holland Land Office Museum.

Press Release:

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to welcome Dr. Michael Boston of SUNY Brockport as our next Guest Speaker on Saturday, May 3 at 11 a.m. Dr. Boston of SUNY Brockport will be presenting on "Female Conductors of the Underground Railroad in Western and Central New York." Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you plan on attending.

Every first Wednesday is Night at the Museum at the Holland Land Office Museum. Come to the museum between 5 and 8 p.m. for extended hours on Wednesday, April 7 for those who cannot make it during our regularly scheduled ones! For Night at the Museum, you will get special personal tours from staff and volunteers, and see more behind the scenes! We hope to see you there! Admission is the regular pricing listed on our website!

Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for the next Trivia Night on Thursday, May 8 at 7 p.m. Come and test your knowledge our county and study up on the history of Genesee County. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you would like to attend.

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to welcome back the DSP Trio for a concert on Friday, May 16 at 7 p.m. The local jazz group of Derek Reiss, Skip Taylor and Peter Mark will get your toes a tapping with a great selection of jazz music. Admission is $5 or $4 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you would like to attend.

Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum for the next edition of our Java with Joe E. Series on Thursday, May 22 at 9 a.m. Richard Beatty will be presenting on "Dr. Seuss Goes to War." In conjunction with the new exhibit at HLOM, Richard Beatty will present a look back at Dr. Seuss's virtually unknown WWII era political cartoons. Author Richard H Minear, now retired Professor of History at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, discovered that there existed 400 drawings that ultimately became the subject matter for his 1999 book, "Dr. Seuss Goes to War, the World War II Editorial Cartoons of Theodor Seuss Geisel." Come and hear about Seuss's contribution to the war effort years before his name became famous for his wildly popular children's books. Thank you to Tim Horton's of Batavia for sponsoring the refreshments for Java with Joe E. for 2025.

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the next edition of its Concert Series on Friday, May 23 at 7 p.m. Bart Dentino will be playing an acoustic selection of music that will include original compositions and songs by such artists as James Taylor, Gordon Lightfoot, The Beatles, and others. Bart was twice selected Best Performer and Best Vocalist of the Year by Freetime Magazine. It was the first time in the magazine’s history an artist was selected in two individual categories. Admission is $5 or $4 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you would like to attend.

The Holland Land Office Musuem is proud to announce the latest presenter in our Guest Speaker Series on Thursday, May 29 at 7 p.m. Vic Vignola will be presenting on his book "Contrast in Command: The Battle of Fair Oaks, May 31-June 1, 1862." His presentation describes the golden opportunity McClellan presented Confederate leadership at Seven Pines/Fair Oaks on May 31, 1862. A day which developed into one of contrasts regarding leadership and command decisions made by Johnston, Sumner, and others. Award winning author/historian Victor Vignola is a lifelong student of the Civil War. His first book Contrasts in Command: The Battle of Fair Oaks – May 31 – June 1, 1862. He has also authored magazine articles for the American Civil War, and North and South publications. Vic conducts Civil War history programs and conducts tours of various sites. Admission is $5 or $3 for museum members. Please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com if you plan to attend.

Baseball: Batavia gets fifth-straight win against Sutherland

By Staff Writer

Batavia beat Pittsford-Sutherland in baseball on Monday, 9-4.

Bronx Bucholz threw a complete game, getting the win, while scattering eight hits and fanning five.

"Bronx was around the zone all day today, challenging hitters and using his defense," said Coach Michael Sputore. "We turned three key double plays to limit (Sutherland) and get out of some big jams.

Batavia Offense 

  • Lakoda Mruczek, 3-4, run scored
  • Brady Mazur, 3-4, run scored, RBI
  • Nolan Ball, 2-4, run scored, double, 3 RBIs
  • Brady Carney, 2-4, run scored, 2RBI
  • Jameson Motyka, 2-4, run scored 2 RBIs
  • Brock Bigsby, 1-3, 2 runs scored

"This is five in a row for us, and we're going to see Sutherland again on Wednesday, and I'm sure they will be ready," Sputore said. "Offensively, we got on the board and tacked on a few on some defense mishap. They're a great team, and baseball is a pretty true game; the team that makes the fewest mistakes usually wins. Batavia is now 6-3 overall and 3-0 in league play."

The Blue Devils face Sutherland again on Wednesday at Dwyer Stadium. Game time is 5 p.m.

Batavia Social Security office closed for renovations Thursday and Friday, reopening May 5

By Press Release
batavia social security
Photo by Howard Owens

NOTE: The Batavian asked a spokesman for the Social Security Administration about the reason for the temporary closure. He said, "The Batavia SSA office underwent renovations to feature additional interviewing booths, which will allow us to provide better service with additional privacy for our visitors.  On Thursday, May 1, and Friday, May 2, 2025, the office will be temporarily closed to walk-in visitors while we finalize renovations."

Press Release:

The Batavia Social Security office located at 571 East Main Street, Batavia, NY, will be temporarily closed on Thursday, May 1 and Friday, May 2. The office will reopen to the public on Monday, May 5th, 2025, at 9:00am. Local telephone services at the Batavia Social Security office will remain available at 1-866-931-7103. 

People who need to conduct their Social Security business in person may visit the following Social Security offices:

  • 4050 West Ridge Road, 2nd Floor, Rochester, NY
  • 200 East Main Street, 2nd Floor, Rochester, NY   

Social Security office hours are from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.   

Social Security’s customers can now make appointments for all types of services instead of waiting in line, resulting in a better overall experience and reductions in wait times. 

Customers can still wait in line if they cannot or do not want to make an appointment.  Staff at local offices are being particularly mindful of vulnerable populations, people with disabilities, and other groups needing specialized or immediate attention when they walk in.  People can schedule an appointment by calling their local office (recommended) or 1-800-772-1213, which also has a call-back feature.  People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call Social Security’s TTY number, 1-800-325-0778.

Many Social Security services are conveniently available online at www.ssa.gov.  People may create their my Social Security account, a personalized online service, at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.  If they already receive Social Security benefits, they can start or change direct deposit online, request a replacement SSA-1099, and if they need proof of their benefits, they can print or download a current Benefit Verification Letter from their account.  People not yet receiving benefits can use their online account to get a personalized Social Security Statement, which provides their earnings information as well as estimates of their future benefits.  The portal also includes a retirement calculator and links to information about other online services. 

Need a Social Security Number card? 
Please note for many situations people only need their number and not the actual card.  If they need a card, they should start the process online. 

People can visit www.ssa.gov/number-card to submit a request for a replacement card, start an application for an updated card, or to request a Social Security number for the first time.  Some people may not need to visit an office and, if they do need to visit an office to complete the application, they will save a lot of time by starting online. 

Want to apply for benefits?  
People can apply online for most benefits.  In many cases, there are no forms to sign.  The agency will review the application and reach out with questions or for more information.  Visit www.ssa.gov/onlineservices to apply for retirement, disability, or Medicare. 

Need proof of benefits, want to check the status of an application or appeal, or curious what else people can do online?   

Visit www.ssa.gov/myaccount or www.ssa.gov/onlineservices today. 

Batavia Concert Band kicks off 101st season, invites youth musicians for summer concerts in Centennial Park

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Batavia Concert Band is beginning its 101st season, and is actively recruiting youth musicians to join us for a couple of amazing concerts in beautiful Centennial Park this summer!

Eligible student musicians need to be able to play level 2/3 music.

Session One

Tues. July 8 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Tues. July 15 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Tues. July 22 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Wed. July 23 - 6:30 p.m. Arrival, 7 p.m. Concert in Centennial Park

Session Two

Tues. July 29 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Tues. Aug. 5 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Tues. Aug. 12 - Rehearsal, 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at GCC
Wed. Aug. 13 - 6:30 p.m. Arrival, 7 p.m. Concert in Centennial Park

For more information, please contact Lindsey Almeter at Lalmeter@albionk12.org or 716-949-5376.

The registration link may be found here Cadet Band registration.

Sponsored Post: Welcome home to 8465 Violet Lane, Batavia! Call Sunny Rathod for more info today

By Sponsored Post
Remote video URL

Welcome home to 8465 Violet Lane! This gorgeously updated 4 bedroom, modern colonial is situated on a .5 acre lot in a quiet cul-de-sac. Entering this pristine 2,790sqft home, you are greeted by a grand staircase and welcoming foyer. Enjoy the formal dining room, or the updated eat-in kitchen. The impressive great room has a built-in fireplace & vaulted ceiling; perfect ambiance for the holidays! Convenient home office! Natural light streams through professionally tinted windows, ensuring efficiency & privacy. Enjoy the long-term protection of the maintenance-free metal roof. Upstairs, enjoy the primary suite w/ walk-in closet, and en-suite master soaking tub. The luxuries abound in the other 2.5 baths and spacious first floor laundry. 1,600sqft of finished basement, feat: built-in bar, optional LRoom, 2 additional storage rooms, a newer on-demand hot water tank & furnace. Between the 20'x25' reinforced (hot tub ready!) vinyl deck wrapped around a new 24' above ground pool and the 15'x11' stamped concrete patio, ample outdoor space and a fully wrapped NEW vinyl fence for added privacy. Also includes an attached 2 car garage with epoxy floor, and a 12’x20’ Amish-made shed! Call Sunny Rathod today!!

Artist who turns movie characters in vivid works of art visits Foxprowl

By Howard B. Owens
Shad Nowicki at foxprowl
Artist Shad Nowicki at Foxprowl on Saturday.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Shad Nowicki, an Ellicottville resident who has gained a national reputation as a pop artist specializing in vivid portraits of movie characters, appeared at Foxprowl Toys and Collectibles on Ellicott Street, Batavia, on Saturday.

He met with fans and discussed his work for six hours.

Owner Bill Hume said Nowicki "has been commissioned directly by many celebrities to do work for them and is very well-known in the Comic-Con circuit."

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