The number of active COVID-19 cases in Genesee County, 326, is nearing the hights total during the pandemic -- 343 in December 2020 -- according to Health Department reports.

Over the past few days, there have been 166 new positive COVID-19 cases reported to the county health department.  

There have been six recent deaths attributed to COVID-19 raising the countywide total over the course of the pandemic to 292.

Of the current positive cases, 22 are hospitalized.

There are 127 people previously reported positive who have completed their mandatory isolation period.

Devon Wright, a multi-time arrestee over the past two years who has remained mostly free during that time, failed to appear in Genesee County Court at 9 a.m. as ordered for the start of a trial with co-defendant Jacob Sponaugle.

The two men are accused of being part of an apparent gun-sale deal gone bad at the Days Inn in Batavia on July 22 that left one of the three participants wounded.

Wright is charged with attempted criminal possession of a weapon 2nd and attempted criminal possession of a weapon 3rd.

Sponaugle is charged with attempted murder, assault, 1st; criminal use of a firearm; aggravated criminal possession of a weapon, 2nd; criminal possession of a weapon, 2nd; and criminal sale of a firearm, 3rd.

District Attorney Lawrence Friedman said the court waited for two hours for Wright to show and then began jury selection without him.  By 5 p.m., the court had impaneled a 12-person jury with four alternates, Friedman said.

A warrant was issued for Wright's arrest.

At around 7 a.m., Friedman said he was informed that Wright was in custody and is expected to appear before Judge Charles Zambito at 9 a.m.

Opening statements are expected to begin at 9:30 a.m.

UPDATE 10:28 a.m.: Dressed in a white T-shirt, sweat pants, and jail crocs, and shackled, Devon Wright appeared before Judge Zambito at about 10 a.m. while his attorney, Nathan Pace, made a petition on behalf of his client that his absence from court yesterday be excused and that Wright be allowed to leave the trial at some point to attend the birth of his first child. Pace said Wright's girlfriend had been expecting to give birth on Nov. 12 but has yet given birth and that Wright stayed with her yesterday so he could be with her when the child is born.

Neither Friedman nor Zambito bought Wright's excuse. Both noted that Wright had sent text messages yesterday saying he was on his way and one that said he had arrived and both statements were untrue.  Both noted that Wright has a history of missing court appearances.  Zambito ordered Wright held but indicated he would consider a petition for him to visit his child if the child is born during the trial.  

Once that hearing was over, Wright was not ready for trial because the clothes brought to him at the jail didn't fit so his sister drove to a local store to buy him new clothes.  

Opening statements should begin shortly.

An ambulance stolen from Perinton has been tracked to Byron and is currently northbound in Caswell Road.

Law enforcement is dispatched.

UPDATE 11:58 p.m.: This is a possible mental health issue so there will be no further updates.

Batavia City School District’s newly hired superintendent was chosen, in part, for neatly fitting into some of the criteria suggested by community members during the interview process, Board of Education President Alice Benedict says.

Jason Smith, a 1990 Batavia High School graduate and city resident, will be shortening his commute come Jan. 3, 2022. Smith is currently superintendent of Lyndonville Central School, and was officially approved by the board during a special meeting Monday evening. 

“One of the things we heard from the community was that they really wanted someone who was a hometown person,” Benedict said to The Batavian after Monday’s special meeting. “And that he’s not using the district as a stepping stone. He’s a very straightforward person, we think he’s going to be a big asset and are excited to have him here.”

Smith has worked his way from high school social studies teacher to principal to superintendent in Albion, Elba, Lyndonville, and now Batavia City Schools. His experience and track record spoke loudly to the board, Benedict said, including when he first applied for a vacant superintendent position in Batavia. Competition was fierce, and Anibal Soler Jr. was chosen during that search. Smith returned a second time to interview after Soler left the district in July 2021. 

“We’re happy he came back,” Benedict said. “He’s excited to be back as superintendent at the district where he graduated.”

Smith thanked the board for “entrusting me with this tremendous opportunity.” Batavia is a very special place for him, he said. 

“I look forward to working alongside the incredible and inspiring students, staff, and community members, he said in a news release. “I can’t wait to hit the ground running in the new year.”  

During the meeting, Benedict thanked Genesee Valley BOCES Superintendent Kevin MacDonald for his guidance and help during the search process. She also gave a grateful nod to the board.

“I want to thank the board for their eagerness and patience,” she said, turning to her colleagues. “I appreciate your honesty, opinions, and steadfast aim to find the right superintendent for this school district.”

Scott Bischoping has been filling in as interim superintendent until a permanent choice was made. The process took time, energy, and coordination to involve not only board members, but district and community members as well, Benedict said.

“I’m just relieved the process is over,” she said. 

Smith began his career in 1994 in the Albion Central School District as a high school social studies teacher had various principal positions at Elba Central School from 2004 to 2011, and has been at Lyndonville Central from 2011 to present.

He received his Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration and his Masters of Science in Education from the State University of New York College at Brockport. He is also a graduate of The State University of New York at Geneseo, where he received his Bachelor of Arts in History with a Minor in Sociology.

Smith’s contract includes a yearly salary of $165,000.

Press Release

Batavia City School District’s Board of Education has reached a contractual agreement and has formally appointed Jason Smith as the district’s new superintendent. Smith is scheduled to start his new role on Jan. 3, 2022. 

“The Board of Education is thrilled to welcome Jason Smith as the new superintendent of the Batavia City School District. We’re confident that his years of previous superintendent and administrative experience will serve our district well, not to mention he’s a BHS grad himself,” Board of Education President Alice Ann Benedict said in a news release. “As a local Batavian with children in our district, Jason understands the unique challenges and opportunities within our community, and we’re certain he will be a strong and dedicated leader for our students, staff, and families.” 

Smith first thanked the board for “entrusting me with this tremendous opportunity.”

“As a proud BHS grad, I am thrilled to be returning to Batavia in this new leadership role. Batavia is a very special place to me, and I look

forward to working alongside the incredible and inspiring students, staff, and community members,” he said in the release.  “I can’t wait to hit the ground running in the new year.”  

A 1990 Batavia High School graduate, Smith has served as the Superintendent of Schools in the Lyndonville Central School District since 2011. He also held various principal positions in the Elba Central School district from 2004-2011. He began his career in 1994 in the Albion Central School District as a high school social studies teacher. 

Smith received his Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration and his Masters of Science in Education from the State University of New York College at Brockport. He is also a graduate of The State University of New York at Geneseo, where he received his Bachelor of Arts in History with a Minor in Sociology.

Kevin MacDonald, District Superintendent of  Genesee Valley BOCES, served as the district's search consultant.

Submitted Photo of Jason Smith

The City of Batavia will hold a gathering for the Honorable Rose Mary Christian on Monday November 22, 2021 in the Council Chamber beginning at 5:30 P.M.  All citizens and well-wishers are invited to attend.  The gathering will be followed by a City Council meeting where proclamations will be presented to Councilwoman Christian honoring her for her years of service.  Light refreshments will be served. 

Councilwoman Christian announced her resignation from City Council on November 15, 2021.  She is resigning the seat because she is moving out of the sixth ward. 

“After serving the residents of the City of Batavia as the sixth Ward Council Member for over 29 years I cannot thank the residents enough for their support.  Their commitment to the City of Batavia and prosperity to the neighborhood has remained steadfast.  It is with a very heavy heart that I resign my seat, but I feel confident that I have worked each day to make the lives of residents in Batavia better.  I wish my fellow Council Members well in their pursuit of good government and improving Batavia,” said Christian, City of Batavia Councilwoman- sixth ward.  

Councilwoman Christian has served as the sixth ward representative since 1992.  She has always been accessible to her constituents and Batavia citizens citywide. 

“I wish Councilwoman Christian the very best in her retirement from City Council.  She has been a staunch advocate of neighborhood initiatives and bringing resources into the sixth ward.  On behalf of all of the City Council Members I wish her the very best in the coming years,” said Eugene Jankowski, City of Batavia, City Council President.

Council Member Christian is a true public servant, performing honorable advocacy for the residents and community of Batavia and those who live in her Ward,” said Genesee County Legislator Rochelle Stein.  I commend Rose Mary Christian on her 30 plus years of elections, hard-won city initiatives over the years, and compassion for her voters in this much-beloved City of Batavia.  Best wishes for a full, healthy, and fun retirement.  Her continuity of knowledge shall be missed, yet surely she will stay engaged on City issues.  Well Done Rose Mary Christian, Well Done.

“Rose Mary Christian has been a good neighbor and exemplary public servant throughout her nearly 30-year career. She’s been steadfastly dedicated to making Batavia the best place to live and work it can be. While I wish her well in the next chapter of her life and career, she will be sorely missed by those she represented, who will remember her as a fierce advocate for working Batavians,” said Assemblyman Steve Hawley. 

Press release:

The Genesee County Health Department is seeking information about the location of two dogs and the owner(s) following a dog bite incident around 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 9. A group of individuals were playing outside in the area of 16 Maple Street in Batavia when two dogs came running towards the group from the direction of Evans and Thorpe Street. One of the dogs charged the group and bit one individual. 

The dog that bit one of the individuals in the group is described as a medium-sized, dark tan dog with a white chest. The dog was a shorthaired, pitbull shepherd mix and approximately 50 to 60 pounds.

The other dog was described as a light tan, shorter-sized dog who was approximately 40 to 50 pounds.

After the incident, the dogs headed back in the direction of Evans and Thorpe Street in Batavia.

It is important to locate the dog to determine whether or not it is current on its rabies shot. If the health status is not identified, post-exposure rabies shots will be offered to the victim.    

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

Press release:

On November 16, 2021, members of the Oatka Creek Watershed Committee and the Black Creek Watershed Coalition are inviting you to attend a celebration of the contributions George Squires has made to protect and improve the health of our watersheds in western New York.   Earlier this year, George retired from his volunteer position as Executive Secretary for the Black Creek Watershed Coalition, a position he had held since the formation of the organization in 2002. George was also involved with the formation of the Oatka Creek Watershed Committee in 1998 and he served on the Committee’s Board of Directors from 2004 to 2018.

We will be meeting at DeWitt Recreation Area, 115 Cedar Street, Batavia, NY 14020 in Batavia at 1:30 PM to recognize George and to dedicate a Bur Oak tree in his honor.  Please park at the south entrance parking area.

Please share this notice with others who know George and may want to join us.  If you would like to say a few words about George’s work or have any questions, please contact Peter Lent at lent@frontiernet.net  so we can allocate timing for the event.  If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we will move event to 11/17/2021, at the same time and place.

Eric A. Spikes, 44, no permanent address, is charged with assault 2nd, two counts of burglary 2nd, menacing 3rd, and endangering the welfare of a child. Spikes is accused of physically attacking and injuring another person during an incident on Aug. 26 at 12:17 a.m. on North Lyon Street, Batavia, where multiple children were present.  He was arrested on a warrant. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed without bail.

Katherine Jessica Vail, 29, of Griswold Road, Bergen, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and reckless endangerment 2nd.  Vail is accused of driving drunk and striking a pedestrian and his dog at 6:11 p.m., Saturday, on South Lake Road, Bergen.  VAil was released on an appearance ticket.

Jeffery Michael Johnson, 33, of Lake Street, Le Roy, is charged with DWI Drugs and driving left of the pavement markings.  Johnson was stopped at 3:46 a.m., Saturday, on Main Road, Stafford, by Deputy David Moore.  He was released on an appearance ticket.

Jonathan Micahel Reed, 28, of Lake Street Road, Le Roy, is charged with two counts of sex offender failure to report a change of address/status within 10 days. Reed is accused of failure to register a new internet service provider and account within 10 days.  He was arraigned in Town of Le Roy Court and jailed without bail.

Aaron Michael Reagan Hatt, 25, of Federal Drive, Batavia, is charged with driving while impaired by drugs, DWI, driving without a license, and failure to signal.  Hatt was stopped at 2:13 a.m, Sept. 19, on Wortendyke Road, Batavia, by Deputy Morgan Ewert. Hatt was released on an appearance ticket.

Zachary James Chittenden, 34, of Boyce Road, Pembroke, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and no or inadequate plate lamps.  Chittenden was stopped at 2:38 a.m., Sunday, on Hartshorn Road, Batavia, by Deputy Zachary Hoy.

Philip M. Escobar, 32, of Kirvin, Texas, was arrested on a bench warrant for alleged failure to appear in Batavia City Court.  He was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance.

Mark B. Havens, 59, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd, assault 3rd, and grand larceny 4th. Havens is accused of striking another person in the face causing injury and taking the person's mobile phone, and damaging a computer during an incident reported at 3:40 p.m., Nov. 7, at an address on Liberty Street, Batavia.  Havens was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance.

Jason L. Johnson, 39, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Johnson was reportedly involved in a physical altercation with another person at a business on East Main Street at 11:58 p.m., Nov. 5, and when police identified Johnson, they arrested him on charges from an unrelated incident.  He was allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine and a broken crack pipe in his jean pocket.

Jaequele M. Tomlin, 26, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd.  Tomlin is accused of damaging property on Watson Street during an incident reported at 10:24 a.m., Nov. 4.  She was arraigned in City Court and released on her own recognizance.

Paul A. Inostroza, 30, of Batavia, is accused of criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation, reckless endangerment 2nd, attempted assault 2nd, and harassment 2nd. Inostroza allegedly attacked another person at 12:50 a.m., Sept. 5, at a location on East Main Street, Batavia.  He was arraigned in City Court and released under supervision.

Erik Pokornowski, 30, of Byron, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08, failure to stop at a stop sign, and moving from lane unsafely.  Pokornowski was stopped at 1 a.m., Oct. 30 on East Main Street, Batavia, by a Batavia police officer.  He was released on an appearance ticket.

Gilberto N. Natal, 33, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Natal allegedly grabbed another person during an argument and threw the person to the ground in an incident reported at 3:45 p.m., Oct. 27, on South Lyon Street, Batavia.  Natal was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance. 

Timothy M. Henry, 26, of Le Roy, is charged with petit larceny.  Henry is accused of stealing $74.54 in merchandise from the Walmart in Warsaw. He was arrested by State Police and released on an appearance ticket.

Michael P. Jansma, 32, of Attica, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. Jansma was stopped by State Police at 9:45 p.m., Saturday, in the Town of Pembroke. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Crystal S. Duncan, 36, of Batavia, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. Duncan was stopped by State Police at 10:26 p.m., Friday, in the Town of Batavia. Duncan was released on an appearance ticket.

Allyson P. Lawrence, 27, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Lawrence was arrested by State Police in the Town of Batavia, at 4:48 p.m., Nov. 7.  She was released on an appearance ticket. No further details released.

Valarie L. Mancini, 64, of Shortsville, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and driving while impaired by drugs. Mancini was stopped at 6:15 a.m., Nov. 10, by State Police, in the City of Batavia.

A 15-year-old resident of Batavia is charged with criminal mischief 3rd.  The youth was arrested by State Police in connection with an incident reported at 10:50 p.m., July 24.

Four bowlers came oh so close to perfect games in Genesee Region USBC league bowling action this past week.

At Mancuso Bowling Center in Batavia, lefty Tom Baker and right James Townsend each recorded 299 games in the County Line Stone/Mancuso's Friday Night Trios League.

Baker left a 7-pin in on the final ball of the second game en route to a 768 series, while Townsend left a 10-pin in game two of his second game on his way to a 721 series.

At Rose Garden Bowl in Bergen, Tom Fluker posted a 298 game in a 747 series in the Wednesday Men's Handicap League and Dennis Meyer spun a 297 game in a 699 series in the Thursday Owls League.

For a list of high scores, click on the Pin Points tab at the top of this page.

Press release from AAA:

Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $3.42, no change from last week when the numbers are rounded. Actually, the price went down because it is $3.415, and last week it was $3.422. One year ago, the price was $2.13. The New York State average is $3.56 –no change from last week. A year ago, the NYS average was $2.23. AAA Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following averages:

• Batavia - $3.45 (down one cent from last week)
• Buffalo - $3.47 (no change from last week)
• Ithaca - $3.52 (up one cent from last week)
• Rochester - $3.53 (up one cent from last week)
• Rome - $3.57 (up one cent from last week)
• Syracuse - $3.51 (up one cent from last week)
• Watertown - $3.59 (up three cents since last week)

The national gas price average is down a tad as the Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that total domestic gasoline stocks decreased while gasoline demand also dropped. The decrease in demand has contributed to some price relief at the pump for drivers. However, pump prices will likely remain elevated as long as oil prices are above $80 per barrel. This morning, they are hovering at about $80 to $81.

From Gas Buddy:

As of Sunday evening, the national average price of gasoline posted its first weekly decline in months. As the price of oil continues to struggle, Covid cases flare up and anxiety over demand starts rising, motorists are likely to see the declines continuing into this week," said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy. "While it's not known how long market conditions will continue to push gas prices down, it appears that the fall should last through Thanksgiving, just in time for millions of Americans to prepare to hit the road for the holiday. However, the damage may already be done. According to GasBuddy's Thanksgiving Travel Survey, being released tomorrow, a significant portion of Americans say the high gas prices already led them to re-think their plans.

After a year’s delay of celebrating the 25-year existence of Genesee Cancer Assistance — which means founders, board members, patients and volunteers — the nonprofit will finally have its day.

The organization’s dinner celebration is at 5 p.m. Saturday at Batavia Downs Gaming on Park Road, Batavia. 

“When we realized it was 25 years, we thought this was a great way to celebrate,” Executive Director Sue Underwood said Saturday to The Batavian. “It’s not a fundraiser, just a dinner celebration … where we could give back to the community for all their help and support. We will recognize the board, volunteers and patients that are there, and local businesses and community supporters will be recognized.”

Not an unfamiliar scenario during this past year, GCA had to postpone plans for an annual event in 2020 due to Covid-19’s impact on large and public gatherings. So it is actually 26 years old now, after being founded in 1995 by Dorothy Schlaggel and Russ Romano.

The duo had a shared objective to create an organization to assist cancer patients in Genesee County with access to financial aid and other related supportive services. The hundreds helped each year have turned into thousands of people able to obtain financial assistance for costs associated with their diagnosis and treatment, GCA’s website states. 

This assistance includes expenses related to prescriptions, medical co-pays, transportation to and from medical facilities, home health care and related equipment and child care. The organization also provides biblical counseling, support groups, informative materials and the Simply Beautiful program, created to help cancer patients with personalized advice for how to deal with the side effects of treatment on their hair and skin.

Appetizers and beverages are to begin at 5 p.m., followed by a buffet dinner at 6 p.m., and the program from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Paul Figlow will serve as master of ceremonies, and Karen Rowland is to speak in memory of her father and huge GCA supporter, Joseph Gerace. Music, assorted memorabilia and, perhaps, some live racing or casino action may fill part of the evening, Underwood said. 

There will be giveaways of gift cards, centerpieces and themed baskets throughout the event, she said. 

“November is a time to be thankful, and it’s really to show people that we’re thankful for the community support,” she said.
 
Tickets are $35, including $25 of Free Play, and are available through Sunday, Nov. 14, as a total count must be turned in by Monday. To order, go to geneseecancerassistance.org
 

The Oakfield-Alabama/Elba Aggies continued their year of perfection with yet another win, this time to capture the Class D Section V title by beating Avon 26-21.

Gaige Armbrewster rushed 16 times for 166 yards and two touchdowns.  

Bodie Hyde was 4-5 passing for 68 yards and a TD.  He also rushed for 21 yards.

Noah Currier gained 120 yards on nine carries and scored a TD.  He also had a 39-yard TD reception.

On defense, Kaden Cusmano had 12 tackles, a sack and he broke up two passes.  TJ Andres had 11 tackles as did Brayden Smith.  CJ Gottler and Ethan Cramer each and nine tackles and Gottler also had a sack.  Cameron Cusmano had an interception as did Armbrewster and Currier.

"I am so incredibly happy and proud for our boys," said Head Coach Tyler Winter. "The composure they showed during moments of adversity tonight is what champions are made of.  This group made a promise to themselves after the way that last season ended. They did everything in their power to make sure they would have a shot at winning a sectional championship this fall.

"To look around and see them enjoy the fruits of their labor tonight... I couldn't be more proud.  This group has so much fun playing football together, that we are glad the show is not over yet.  Our goal as we prepare for the Far West Regionals is to keep working hard, love each other, and play football together as long as we possibly can.  HOW BOUT THEM AGGIES !?"

Photos by Kristin Smith.  For more, click here.

O-A/E's Gaige Armbrewster looks for running room.

Kameron Cusmano (5) and Noah Currier (20) converge upon Avon QB Andrew Rowland.

Armbrewster carried the day for the Aggies.

 Noah Currier breaks a tackle.

More production from Armbrewster.

A great grab for Gaige.

QB Bodie Hyde just gets the pass away.

Press release:

On November 13, 2021, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) out of SP Batavia arrested Brennan M. Dean, 20 of Bolivar, NY was arrested for Manslaughter (C Felony), Vehicular Manslaughter 2nd degree (D Felony), Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 4thdegree (E Felony), Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance 7th degree (A Misdemeanor), Leaving the Scene of a Fatal Motor Vehicle Accident, DWAI-Drugs (1192-4) and additional Vehicle and Traffic Violations.

On November 12, 2021, at approximately 2:30 PM, Troopers out of SP Warsaw responded to Starr Road and Crossman Road in the town of Pavilion for a one-car collision. Further investigation revealed that 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt was traveling southbound on Starr Road at a high rate of speed when the vehicle exited the roadway at a curve striking a utility pole. The passenger was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced deceased at the scene.  The operator, Dean attempted to leave the scene when patrols were able to locate him in the area.  Dean was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.  Once Dean was released from Strong Memorial Hospital, he was arrested and transported to SP Batavia for processing.  Dean was arraigned at the town of Pavilion and remanded to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $100,000 cash or $200,000 bond.

The vehicle involved in this incident was reported stolen out of North Tonawanda earlier on November 12, 2021.

The passenger has not been identified at this time.

New York State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and the Genesee County District Attorney’s Office assisted in this investigation.

This is still an ongoing criminal investigation.

Previously: Minimal information available from State Police on fatal accident in Pavilion

Photo: Alecia Kaus/Video News Service

The Batavia High Blue Devils, sparked by an incredible play by senior quarterback Jesse Reinhart and senior tight end Kaden Marucci, defeated rival Honeoye Falls-Lima, 22-14, tonight to capture the Section V Class B football championship.

Leading 14-7 early in the third quarter in the game played at Pittsford Sutherland High School, the Blue Devils were forced to punt from their own 33-yard line.

The center snap to Reinhart, the team’s punter, sailed high over his head. He managed to corral it about 20 yards behind the line of scrimmage, avoided a tackle and lofted a pass to the left side of the field where Marucci was standing.

“It went over my head and I was chasing after the ball – I think it was at the 5 yard line or 10 yard line, whatever it was,” said Reinhart, who was voted the game’s most valuable player after passing for 163 yards and two touchdowns. “I could have dove on it and gave them the ball there, but I decided to pick it up and try to make a play. I threw it out to him (Marucci) and he did the rest; he took it all the way …”

Marucci, who earned the outstanding defense player award for his play at linebacker, caught the ball, found an open lane down the sideline and outraced the Cougars to the end zone to give Batavia a 20-7 advantage (see photo above).

Here’s what he had to say about the play:

“A guy got by me on the edge and I looked back to see if Jesse was good and saw the ball rolling toward the end zone. I looked around and saw no one around me, so I started screaming Jesse’s name. He tossed it over to me and I was just off to the races.”

As a result of a penalty on Batavia after the big play, the Blue Devils, 10-1, decided to go for two points, calling for a reverse/option pass. It worked as wide receiver/running back Javin McFollins hit Reinhart in the end zone to make it 22-7.

Batavia Coach Brennan Briggs pointed out the athleticism of Reinhart and Marucci that turned what could have been disaster into a moment that will go down in Batavia football history.

“A bad snap. Yeah, but we have athletes out here and that’s just them innovating and doing a great job,” he said. “Jesse’s a heck of an athlete and Mooch (Marucci) got open and they blocked downfield for him. Sometimes, you have to have plays like that to win big games.”

With about four minutes left in the period, HF-L took over on the Batavia 45 after a punt by Reinhart traveled just 12 yards, and put together a seven-play drive -- with senior back Zachary Meacham gaining 20 yards on three carries, senior quarterback Brody Young finding senior wide receiver J.T. Killenbec for 17 yards, and Young finishing it off with a three-yard touchdown run.

The point after touchdown kick by Zavier Carbonel was good and the Cougars, who finish at 10-1, had pulled within 22-14 with 1:40 left in the third quarter.

Batavia was in a similar position in early October, holding a 20-7 lead at halftime before falling 27-26 at Van Detta Stadium.

There was no meltdown this time, although HF-L did make it interesting in the final quarter.

After Young’s TD, the Blue Devils took over at their own 25, but two runs netted only six yards. An 18-yard pass from Reinhart to wide receiver Cole Grazioplene kept the drive alive, and the Blue Devils – behind junior halfback Aidan Anderson – were able to take five more minutes off the clock before turning the ball over on downs at the HF-L 21.

Anderson, who opened the scoring on a 6-yard run with 3:02 left in the first quarter, picked up 27 of his 101 yards rushing during that stretch. He was named the outstanding offensive player, and also came up with some key tackles and pass deflections on defense.

HF-L took possession with seven minutes to play and Young went to the air, finding Ben Carson for three yards and Killenbec for nine before connecting with Aidan Goold for 35 yards to the Batavia 37. Two runs by Meacham picked up 18 yards, but two incomplete passes resulted in a fourth-and-4 situation at the Blue Devils’ 19.

Young threw a pass into the end zone that was broken up by Reinhart, but pass interference was called – one of a few penalties that had the Batavia fans voicing their displeasure with the referees.

Now, it was first-and-goal at the 9 for the Cougars with 4:30 to play. Young handed off to junior Donnell Hall, who was jolted behind the line by linebacker Mathew McWethy for a three-yard loss. The Blue Devils got another break on the next play when Young’s pass was dropped in the end zone.

A third down pass to Carson gained eight yards, making it fourth-and-goal from the Batavia 4. On fourth down, Young threw another pass in the end zone but it was off the mark and Batavia took over with 3:16 remaining.

At this point, Briggs turned to Anderson, who came through with runs of four, six and 12 yards -- with a 12-yard scamper by Reinhart sandwiched in between. HF-L was forced to use its timeouts, but three final runs by Anderson served to run out the clock.

In the first half, following Anderson’s TD burst (and kicker Julia Petry’s first of two successful PATs), junior wide receiver Javin McFollins came up with a spectacular catch in the end zone to put Batavia up by two scores.

On a third-and-7 play from the HF-L 32, Reinhart passed the ball to McFollins who won a “jump ball” situation against the defender.

HF-L followed that with a 10-play, 63-yard drive with Meacham barreling into the end zone from four yards out to pull within 14-7. That drive was aided by a questionable roughing the passer call against Batavia, and was highlighted by a 38-yard pass from Young to Killenbec.

The Blue Devils controlled the first half and could have mounted a bigger lead but three drives stalled deep in HF-L territory.

Marucci recorded eight tackles on the defensive side of the ball while Carter McFollins recovered a fumble for the Blue Devils.

The Batavia victory breaks a three-game losing streak against the Cougars, including a loss about six months ago in the sectional finals (which were moved to the spring due to COVID-19). But tonight, it wasn’t about avenging those losses, Briggs said.

“I’m just happy for these guys. No redemption, no revenge – any of that stuff,” he said. “These guys have their own identity. Whoever we have to come play, we’re going to play. Obviously, there is a rivalry brewing with HF-L, which is a great thing, but I’m just happy for these guys.”

Anderson said the team showed “resilience through adversity” to prevail over an HF-L squad that defeated Batavia by one point earlier this season.

“We had a lot of down moments. We had a lot of penalties, and a lot of dumb mistakes,” he said. “But we bounced back. We never put our heads down, and that’s why we won.”

Batavia advances to the Far West Regionals against WNY Maritime Charter/Health Sciences (Section VI) at 3:15 p.m. Nov. 20 at Williamsville South High School.

WNY Maritime defeated Iroquois, 62-12, today for its third straight Section VI Class B title.

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Photos by Steve Ognibene

Batavia QB Jesse Reinhart gets off a pass early in the game.

Javin McFollinms with the reception for the Blue Devils.

Cam McClinic tries to get past HF-L's Aidan Goold.

The HF-L ball carrier is tackled for a loss.

Reinhart, middle, lets out a triumphant yell as the Batavia victory is secure.

Lineman Austyn Fernandez looks to give Coach Brennan Briggs a Gatorade shower.

Stars of the game, from left, Batavia's Aidan Anderson, Kaden Marucci and Jesse Reinhart, and HF-L's Mitchell Bulling and Zac Meacham.

The Section V "block" becomes the center of attention.

A moment to remember for the Batavia High Blue Devils football team.

The beat goes on for the Pavilion Lady Gophers.

Coach Rex Eighmey’s team this afternoon advanced to the New York State Public High School Athletic Association “Final Four” with a hard-fought, straight set victory over Chautauqua Lake in the girls volleyball Class D Far West Regionals at Le Roy High School.

By winning 25-23, 25-10 and 26-24, Pavilion kept its perfect season intact as it has yet to lose a set in compiling a 25-0 record.

But it wasn’t easy, Eighmey said, as the Lady Gophers had to rally from a 19-15 deficit in the first set and survived a late charge by the Lady Thunderbirds in the decisive third set.

Chautauqua Lake, which suffered its first loss in 18 matches, was Pavilion’s toughest opponent this season, Eighmey said.

“Oh yeah, by far yeah,” he said. “They’re really good. They're the most athletic team and have a couple good hitters. But we kind of kept things under control. Our girls played out of their minds and it was fantastic to watch.”

With the score tied at 23 in the opening set, Chautauqua Lake missed on a serve, turning the ball over to Sara Laurie, who served the winning point. Pavilion dominated the second set, and then took a 17-12 lead in the third set before the Lady Thunderbirds came back to go up 22-21.

Pavilion called a timeout and, after their opponentsmissed on another serve, scored two points to go up 24-22. Chautauqua Lake rallied to tie it again at 24, but missed on another serve. From there, Paige Landers took the serve and her teammates came through for the final point.

The statistics were distributed across the team with Karlee Zinkievich getting four kills and 10 digs, Shea Amberger tallying five kills and two blocks, Adeline Milligan recording nine kills and eight digs, Lauren Kingsley contributing 12 kills and eight digs and Shannon Campbell posting 23 assists and four digs.

Eighmey said his team’s balance seem to wear down Chautauqua Lake in the second set, but he did give the Section VI representative credit for making the third set close.

The Lady Gophers now move on to the four-team, round-robin Class D state tournament next Saturday afternoon in Glens Falls. Each team will play three two-set matches with the squad with the best record earning the championship.

High school sports playoff games involving local teams this weekend are as follows:

FOOTBALL
Section V Championship
Class B
Tonight
No. 2 Batavia 22, No. 1 Honeoye Falls-Lima 14. Batavia (10-1) advances to Far West Regionals against WNY Maritime Charter/Health Sciences (Section VI) at 3:15 p.m. Nov. 20 at Williamsville South High School.
Class D
Friday
No. 1 Oakfield-Alabama/Elba 26, No. 2 Avon 21; O-A/Elba (11-0), Section V, advances to the Far West Regionals against Randolph (10-0), Section VI, at 5 p.m. Nov. 19 at Jamestown High School (Strider Field)

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL
Far West Regionals
Today at Le Roy High School
Class C
Portville, Section VI, def. Le Roy, Section V, 25-9, 25-12, 25-18. Portville advances to the state tournament next weekend in Glens Falls.
Class D
Pavilion, Section V, def. Chautauqua Lake, Section VI, 25-23, 25-10, 26-24. Pavilion (25-0) advances to the state tournament next weekend in Glens Falls.

GIRLS SOCCER
NYSPHSAA Final Four
Today
Class C
Carle Place 2, Byron-Bergen 0. Carle Place (Section VIII) advances to Sunday’s title game at 10:30 a.m. at SUNY Cortland.