This year’s New York at Boston “Wild Card” game to advance in the American League baseball playoffs triggered a host of memories for Ron Guidry, the winning pitcher in the Yankees’ thrilling 5-4 victory over the Red Sox in the Oct. 2, 1978 tie-breaker game to determine the champion of the AL’s East Division.

“When it got down this year to the last couple of days in New York and Boston, and then now you got a playoff game, well, yeah, I started getting phone calls left and right about the playoffs,” said Guidry, who was in town today to sign autographs at the Legends & Stars Fall 2021 Sports Expo at Batavia Downs Gaming.

“So, yeah, it brought back some memories. The only problem is we didn't win this time.”

That moved the conversation to 1978, a season in which the Yankees rallied from a 14 ½ game deficit to the Bosox to end in a tie with 99-63 records. A one-game playoff was in order and, by virtue of a coin flip, it was to be played in Fenway Park in Boston.

Guidry, the AL’s best pitcher that season, started on the mound for the Yankees.

When it was mentioned that he started on short rest, he said, “Yeah. Maybe a day.”

The 5-9, 175-pound left-handed strikeout artist pitched into the seventh inning, leaving with a 4-2 lead.

The big blow in the contest -- as any baseball fan knows -- was a three-run homer by light-hitting Yankee shortstop Bucky Dent in the seventh inning that erased Boston’s 2-0 lead and gave Dent a nickname that lives in infamy.

“That was the only time that I really was upset with (manager) Bob Lemon because I really didn't want to come out of the game,” he said. “I really thought that I could; that I still had enough.”

He recalled that George Scott got a base hit between first and second base, prompting Lemon to call for reliever Goose Gossage.

“It was a ground ball – it wasn't like he hit a ball on the wall or a screamer. You know, he just snuck it in. And I still felt like I had some stuff. I still felt like I could have at least completed that seventh inning to where Goose only had to look at pitching to innings. Now, taking me out that early, he almost has to go three innings. And it was pretty hot that day. But, it worked out.”

When asked if it was more nerve-wracking for him after he came out of the game, Guidry said he never got nervous.

“People always ask me that and this is what I tell them,” he said. “You either do the job or you don't. There's no in-between, I do a good job or don't, we win or we lose, that’s it.”

Guidry said his “goal” was to put his team in a position to win that game.

“So, when I come out of that, when I came out of that game, we were winning 4-2. And then then very next inning, you know, Reggie (Jackson) hit a home run to make it 5-2. Now, we got a little cushion but no cushion is safe in Boston, in Fenway Park.”

He said that while Dent’s homer is remembered as the big hit, Guidry said the game-saving play was made by Yankee right fielder Lou Piniella in the ninth inning with the score 5-4.

Boston’s Jerry Remy hit a line drive that Piniella could not see due to the late afternoon sun. As the ball hit the turf and almost bounced by him, Piniella stabbed at it and it landed in his glove. That prevented the baserunner, Rick Burleson, from advancing from first to third base. A deep fly out by Jim Rice, the next batter, could only move Burleson to third – instead of being a sacrifice fly.

With two outs and two on, Gossage got Red Sox legend Carl Yastrzemski on a foul pop to third baseman Graig Nettles for the game’s final out.

“If Piniella doesn't cut that ball off Burleson goes third, and he might have even scored,” Guidry reasoned. “But you know, he cuts it off. And I think he just saw it at the last second.”

He credited the Yankees’ outfielders for knowing where to position themselves for certain hitters.

“Those guys were so intelligent. Because we didn't have an outfield that had blistering speed or anything like that. You know? They were just good ballplayers. (Mickey) Rivers was the only one who had speed,” he said. “But the most amazing thing was you didn't have to worry about them being out of position. They knew where to play guys.”

The 1978 Yankees went on to beat the Kansas City Royals in the American League Championship Series and the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series for their 22^nd championship. Guidry posted three more victories in the playoffs and World Series, finishing with a 28-3 mark.

For his regular season success (25-3, 1.74 earned run average), Guidry was named the league’s Cy Young Award winner and finished second to Rice in the Most Valuable Player voting.

Guidry retired following the 1988 season with a 170-91 won-loss record, 3.29 ERA and 1,778 strikeouts.

The Lafayette, La. native (and resident) shared his thoughts on a few other topics:

On this year’s Yankees vs. Red Sox playoff game:

“I didn’t like going back to Boston for that because, looking at the whole thing, the first time (1978), we did it, but it gets much harder to do it again. So now, each team has won one. If it ever happens again, that’s going to be a great story."

On infield shifting in today’s game:

“No, we didn’t have that. I mean you shifted certain guys, because you know, a lot of guys just hit the ball in certain areas,” he said. “If I'm going to pitch and know that I'm going to be throwing a guy a certain way, then I might tell my infielders or outfielders to shift this way or that way.

“Now, with all the analytical stuff, sometimes it helps them and sometimes it hurts. You watch teams that know how to hit the ball behind runners and stuff like that? Even though they’re left or right handed, when they start shifting, you can drive a battleship between first and second, or second and third because there’s only one guy playing somewhere around there. You just hope it don't hurt at the worst possible moment.”

On his nicknames – Gator and Louisiana Lightning:

“My teammates gave me the nickname, Gator,” he said. “When I got called up in 1975, the Yankees were playing at Shea Stadium as the old (Yankee) stadium was being refurbished. And when I got there, you know, I got off the plane and I went to Shea Stadium, got dressed and they were already playing because we had a doubleheader against Boston.

“I walked in and met the manager and he told me to go to the bullpen. And when I walked in the bullpen, of course, I met Sparky Lyle and Dick Tidrow and a couple of other guys, and they started talking to you about where you’re from. And they asked me what we had a lot of in Louisiana and I told them, we got mosquitoes and snakes and alligators.

“And, I don't remember who it was; it was either Sparky or Dick Tidrow and they said, ‘We’re just going to call you Gator because we can't pronounce that last name. So, you know, that's the nickname that was given to you by your teammates. So, that's the one that you treasure the most.”

Regarding Louisiana Lightning, he said that was given to him by longtime Yankees broadcaster Phil Rizzuto during Guidry’s 18-strikeout performance against the California Angels on June 17, 1978.

“It’s a catchy thing, but it’s tough to sign when you’ve got to sign a lot of it,” he said.

Photo at top: New York Yankees pitching great Ron Guidry talks with Dino Labbate of Rochester as he autographs baseball memorabilia at today's Legends & Stars 2021 Fall Sports Expo at Batavia Downs Gaming. Photo at bottom: Guidry and Hall of Fame infielder/designated hitter Paul Molitor, who faced Guidry while playing for the Milwaukee Brewers from 1978-1992. Photos by Mike Pettinella.

McClaine, a resident of nearby Akron, is co-owner of Legends & Stars – teaming with friends Brian Burke and Chris Sabatello about three years ago to purchase what was an established business.

“We are trying to take this to the next level to bring in the Jim Kellys, Josh Allens, Emmitt Smiths, Michael Irvins, Jerome Bettises,” McClaine said. “I mean we've had numerous guys here in little Batavia, New York. We’re getting Emmitt Smith, the leading rusher in NFL history.

“We're getting him to Batavia, New York, and we're so fortunate to have the partnership with numerous agents in the area, numerous agents in the country to bring these players to Batavia -- which is quite it's quite an accomplishment, quite an experience.”

While Emmitt Smith did not appear at this particular show, the stars were shining brightly in the form of baseball greats Paul Molitor and Ron Guidry and football legends Kellen Winslow Sr., Lenny Moore, Rickey Jackson and Buffalo Bills Jim Kelly, Andre Reed, Thurman Thomas and Joe DeLamielluere.

Current members of the Bills attended as well, something that McClaine sees as vital to his team’s “family focused approach.”

“We want kids to come in and leave here with smiles on their faces,” he said. “They got to see Jordan Poyer or Micah Hyde or Dawson Knox. That's what it's all about. And even the dads are coming up with smiles on their face since Ron Guidry was their hero or Jim Kelly was their hero growing up there, that's what it's all about.

“It's a family type atmosphere. And we want people to leave with smiles on their faces like that was the best experience.”

McClaine said Legends & Stars works with player and former players’ agents to book them for their events.

“So, we're in the show promoting business, not in a player promoting business. We’re not on the hook necessarily for the players. But it gets people through the door,” he said. “That’s all we can ask for. We can't tell people to spend money at the dealer tables. All we can do is try to bring the lineup as promoted and get people through the door.”

For the Downs’ event, he said more than 70 card and memorabilia vendors signed up to rent space. The athletes are compensated by what they charge for autographs and photos, and also receive a stipend from Legends & Stars.

“We have numerous dealers that come to every one of our shows,” he said. “It's just a great partnership, not necessarily with the dealers, but also with the casino. There's nothing like the staff at Batavia Downs (which, for this event, is directed by Mary Bucceri with assistance from Ryan Hasenauer). I mean whatever we ask, they do, and it just works.”

The next Legends & Stars sports expo at Batavia Downs is scheduled for Feb. 26-27, 2022.

“We don't have any guests lined up quite yet, but if you use social media – we’re on Twitter and Facebook – and have our own website, www.legendsandstars.net. Keep checking back and we'll give updates as soon as we know,” McClaine said.

Photo at top: Robert McClaine at registration desk with his son, Logan; daughter, Olivia; and mother, Carol. 

Jim Kelly, Buffalo Bills QB and NFL Hall of Famer

The Calarco-Smith family of Elba in line for a Jim Kelly autograph -- Justin, Liz and kids, from left, Nico, Noah and Lucia

Lucia's hat after a visit with Jim Kelly

Plenty of action on the vendor floor

Baseball Hall of Famer Paul Molitor, left, with Milwaukee Brewers' fan Batavian Vin Pontillo

Josh Currier of Batavia selling his Buf on Weck merchandise

Elba's Norm Itjen assisting NFL Hall of Fame tight end Kellen Winslow Sr. sign numerous items

Autographed baseballs ready for purchase

And there were plenty of helmets to go around as well

Buffalo Bills tight end Dawson Knox, currently out with a broken hand, but still able to sign a bunch of jerseys

Andre Rison, wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers' team that won Super Bowl XXXI.

Photos by Mike Pettinella. 

Press release:

Genesee Cancer Assistance is pleased to announce the upcoming celebration in honor of their service to Genesee County.

Founded in 1995, the organization’s goal has been to help alleviate some of the difficulties experienced by cancer patients, their families, and caregivers.  GCA provides financial assistance and free support services to those residents affected by cancer in Genesee County.

During the past 26 years, GCA has been able to assist thousands of individuals!

This belated 25th Anniversary Celebration is scheduled for Saturday, November 20th at the newly renovated Batavia Downs Park Place.  The evening is designed to thank our many sponsors and supporters, recognize the many dedicated volunteers who make GCA possible, and honor those impacted by cancer. 

Please join us for this special evening. Doors open at 4:30 pm with appetizers at 5:00 pm and dinner served at 6:00 pm. (Cash bar available). Tickets for the dinner event can be purchased by contacting (585) 345-0417 or https://gca-25th-anniversary.evenbrite.com/.  The ticket price of $35.00 includes appetizers, a delicious buffet dinner, coffee/tea, and dessert.  This price also includes $25 in free play to enjoy at the casino!

Reserve your tickets now through Friday, November 12th.

Press release:

The St. Jerome Guild, Inc., annual "Noel Nook" will take place at The Jerome Center at 16 Bank Street, Batavia, NY on November 5 -12, 2021 from 9 am - 4 pm, Saturdays, November 6 and 13 from 9 am – 2 pm and closed Sunday, November 7.  Please wear a mask.  All customers will enjoy a 10% discount on the entire order (some exclusions apply). We invite parents and their children to post their Santa’s letters in the North Pole Post located outside the gift shop.

‘Tis the season to wear customer favorites of home interiors and stylish ponchos, capes, and shawls, woven caplets, fur-trimmed, and knit hats and gloves, gorgeous scarves, from K & K, Carmen & Coco, Mud Pie, Simply Noelle, and Gantz, to name a few. Our updated selection of Petite Ginger Snaps, which are interchangeable with bracelets, necklaces, and rings come in a variety of colors, shapes, and stones.  We continue to carry our selection of stylish handbags.  Our reasonably priced 'Jerome Jewelry Collection’ includes rings, bracelets, earrings, necklaces sets, some with semi-precious stones, and a wide assortment of watches, and children’s jewelry.  Popular items are cozy baby jackets in blue, pink, and leopard, tummy blankets, picture frames, milestone items, and a variety of children's toys and plush animals.  Patrons love our Famous Beekman Brothers’ products of hand creams, soaps, facial makeup remover, and lip balms.

You will find a bar and wine accessories, eclectic and wine caddies depicting doctors, golfers, nurses, firefighters, musicians, athletes, and gardeners are customer favorites.  Enjoy the expressions of wall and counter art, holiday wreaths, kitchen towels, spatula sets, mugs and aprons, Santas, snowmen, Snowbabies, crystal candle holders and warmers, angels, elegant glittered and country trees, hundreds of gorgeous ornaments, cardinals, flags, throws, centerpieces, and night lights.  Gift cards are also available.  

The St. Jerome Guild, Inc., a not-for-profit volunteer organization has been serving the healthcare community for decades and celebrated their 100-year Jubilee a few years ago and the group continues to be an active organization donating vital equipment to UMMC. The Guild’s 2020 Hometown Heroes Star Initiative honoring all UMMC employees for their efforts during the height of the pandemic raised $3000. These funds contributed toward the Guild’s $7000 purchase of an urgently needed freezer to store the Covid vaccines! 

For decades, the Guild offers to UMMC employees pursuing educational careers, our annual Health Professional Scholarships.  Children who visit the Jerome Center Urgent Care are comforted with plush animals. Cancer patients receive care bags of personal items. The Guild sponsors the Jerome Center Annual Employee Recognition Day to thank employees for their efforts in serving the community. Guild members donate thousands of volunteer hours working at the Shop and for UMMC events, including the Teddy Bear Clinic.  The Guild has set up a satellite gift shop at the UMMC Kiosk on North Street open at various times offering our inventory of home goods, giftware and clothing.  

St. Jerome Gift Shop business hours vary and Monday through Friday from 9 am – 3 pm, and Saturday from

9 am - 12 noon managed and operated only by Guild volunteers.  New members are welcome to join the Guild throughout the year and a membership tea is held in September.  Members attend regular monthly meetings that include a program and guest speakers.  The Guild manages a monthly lottery and the community is invited to participate. Please join our Facebook page to view our inventory at: St. Jerome Gift Shop.

Article submitted by: Marilyn C. Dickinson, Secretary
St. Jerome Guild, Inc. Board of Directors

Press release:

Come and experience the 20th annual Wonderland of Trees, sponsored in part by WBTA! The opening gala will occur on Friday, November 19th from 6:00 to 8:30 pm at the Holland Land Office Museum. This year's theme to honor this milestone year is "Through the Years." Visit the museum to see all the wonderfully decorated trees and displays by local businesses and organizations. This year's opening gala will feature many great gift baskets to win and a Silent Auction. The night will also feature holiday music by the Genesee Symphony Orchestra and hors d'oeuvres provided by the D & R Depot. Tickets for this event are on sale at the museum. Tickets are $15 per person/ $10 for museum members and $5 for children under 12. For more details contact the museum or visit www.hollandlandoffice.com.

The Wonderland of Trees will run through the end of December. The basket raffle winners will be drawn Friday, December 17th. Further holiday events will also be held throughout the season. If you would like to participate by decorating a tree or contributing a basket, or general sponsorship, please contact the museum or visit www.hollandlandoffice.com.

Press release:

Notre Dame High School will be honoring the Hall of Fame Class of 2020 & 2021 Inductees during the annual Sports Night Dinner on Saturday, November 13, 2021. The event was not held last year due to covid, so both year’s inductees will be honored at this year’s event.

The 2020 Inductees are: Ron Francis ’67, Gary Conte ’69, Caitlin Fix ’01, Jessica Cocco Paulin ’05, “The Foundation” (which includes early years ND All Stars Jerome O’Grady ’55, Samuel John Gerace ’55, James Sullivan ’55, Ron Kosiorek ’55, Frank Ferrando ’56, Vincent Messina ’57, Bill Kelty ’57, Richard Lewis ’58, Patrick Welsh ’58, Michael Welsh ’61), 1968 & 1969 Varsity Golf Teams, and Coach Marc Staley ’20 honorary.

The 2021 Inductees are: Vinny Fanara ’97, Mike Redick ’97, Otis Thomas ’97, Kathryn Redick Thompson ’03, Darci Walthew Pfund ’03, 1978 Varsity Football Team, and 1978 Varsity Girls’ Volleyball Team with special recognition to Donald “Magoo” Suozzi who was an incredible supporter of Notre Dame High School students and the athletic program for over 50 years!

The first Annual Bill Sutherland Humanitarian of the Year Award will also be presented to Dr. Joseph Scanlan ’65. Beloved teacher and coach, Bill Sutherland, passed away in 2020 and his family has created this award to honor someone who helps people behind the scenes.

Notre Dame Hall of Fame recognizes inductees for their outstanding athletic contributions while at ND.

For bios of inductees, click here.

Friday’s meeting with the engineering firm representing the City of Batavia -- coupled with continued progress on completion of a new pretreatment facility – is giving O-At-Ka Milk Products Chief Executive Officer Bill Schreiber hope that wastewater restrictions placed on the Cedar Street processing plant will come to an end in the near future.

“Our technical team had a good exchange of information with the city and their engineering firm (GHD Group of Buffalo) this afternoon,” Schreiber said in an email to The Batavian. “The team presented several options we think will assist in elevating dissolved oxygen levels in the lagoons (at the city’s Waste Water Treatment Plant) and support recovery.”

In the meantime, O-At-Ka officials have been hauling wastewater to other locations on a daily basis for several weeks – currently at an average cost of $13,000 to $15,000 per day, Schreiber said.

This became necessary when City of Batavia leaders determined that the dissolved oxygen levels in the ponds were insufficient and not in compliance with the State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit that regulates O-At-Ka. As a result, the city issued a cease-and-desist order to the plant, which is owned by the Upstate Niagara dairy farmer cooperative.

Schreiber and John Gould, Upstate Niagara chairman of the board, have been calling for a meeting with city engineers and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to forge a “three-party solution.”

While the DEC apparently was not involved in Friday’s discussion, Schreiber said that engineers working with the city “have indicated they will consider what was presented and we hope to have further discussion next week.”

Work on getting its new pretreatment plant up and running is on schedule, Schreiber said, adding that Nov. 15 is the target date to begin seeding and flow to the new Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor.

“The media for the new MBBR has been received,” Schreiber said. “The blower mechanical and electrical installation is complete, and pre-commissioning and walk through for the blowers is planned for November 8^th.”

He said the company also is acquiring an additional Dissolved Air Flotation – not part of the original design -- to augment the existing unit, facilitating a process that removes solids before the wastewater enters the MBBR and reduces the load.

Calls to City Attorney George Van Nest, who is speaking on behalf of the city regarding this situation, were not returned at the time of the posting of this story.

Photo at top: The new Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor with the media for it on the ground to the left of the structure; Photo below: An inside view of the MBBR. Submitted photos.

Previously: City attorney: WWTP levels are heading in right direction; O-At-Ka has to abide by conditions of permit

UPDATED with additional information from the trial.

An arson and attempted murder case dating back to 2018, beset by numerous delays -- including the 2020 pandemic -- has reached a resolution after a jury trial this week of Plush Dozier, 24.

Dozier was convicted by the jury this afternoon on both counts.

First-degree arson is a Class A-1 felony. Second-degree attempted murder is a Class B felony.  Under New York's penal law, both sentences must run concurrently.

Dozier intentionally set fire on June 15 to the house at 35 Maple St., Batavia, in an attempt to kill a person inside the residence.

First Assistant District Attorney Kevin Finnell, who prosecuted the case, indicated the conviction came on the strength of a confession by Dozier the night of the fire. At the fire scene while fire crews were still battling the blaze, Dozier approached Officer Arick Perkins and admitted to starting the fire. He later made a tape confession that included method and intent. Those details were corroborated through additional investigation and statements by occupants of the home.

During the drive, Lt. Micahel Morris, City Fire, provided testimony that helped secure the conviction.

During deliberations, the jury asked for a replay of the video of Dozier's confession and also asked for a readback of a portion of the testimony of one of the children who was home at the time of the fire.  

Finnell said the jury deliberated for more than two hours before returning a verdict.

Among the delays in the case was a September 2019 mental health evaluation that ended in a determination that Dozier was mentally fit to stand trial.

While in custody, Dozier allegedly damaged the door of a Sheriff's patrol vehicle and menaced an officer.  He also is accused of kicking out a plate glass window at the jail in a separate incident.

For previous coverage, click here.

The Batavia High Blue Devils varsity football team opened the Section V Class B playoffs tonight with a dominating 35-0 victory over the visiting Newark/Marion Reds at Van Detta Stadium.

The second-seeded Blue Devils will host No. 3 Wayne at 7 p.m. next Friday in the semifinals.

Batavia scored on all but two of its possessions.

QB Jesse Reinhart was 8-12 passing for 152 yards and two TDs. He was intercepted once. He also gained 32 yards on the ground on four carries.  

Cam McClinic gained 94 yards rushing on three carries and scored twice. Aidan Anderson rushed 11 times for 71 yards and scored a TD.

Cole Grazioplene scored once on five receptions for 76 yards.  Jagger Owens caught a 40-yard TD pass.

On defense, Kaden Marucci had nine tackles.

Also on Friday:

Alexander 45, Geneseo 0. The Trojans gained more than 300 yards on the ground. Braydon Woods gained 128 yards on 17 carries.  Nick Kramer gained 91 yards on ten carries.

Le Roy 7, Attica 3. Brock Flint rushed for 38 yards on 14 carries. John Penepento, four runs for 21 yards and a TD.  He was also 2-7 passing for 34 yards. Jack Tonzi had 13 tackles and Tyler Strollo, nine.

Pembroke 34, Sodus 0. In eight-man football, Tyson Totten gained 136 yards on 19 carries and scored three touchdowns. Caleb Felski, seven carries, 100 yards and a TD. Cayden Pfalzer, 3-3 passing for 56 yards and a TD.  On defense, Pete Farrington had six tackls.

Photos by Jim Burns

Tonight's Section V football quarterfinal scores:

Class B -- Batavia 35, Newark/Marion 0

Class C -- Letchworth/Warsaw/Perry 6, Livonia 0

Class C -- Le Roy 7, Attica 3

Class D -- Avon 22, Notre Dame 0

Class D -- Cal-Mum/Byron-Bergen 27, Bolivar-Richburg 20

Class D -- Alexander 45, Geneseo/Mount Morris 0

Class D -- Oakfield-Alabama/Elba 68, Clyde-Savannah 8

Eight-Man -- Pembroke 34, Lyons/Sodus 0

A multi-unit residence at North and Ross is suspected of having a small electrical wiring fire "in the wall or something," according to the property owner. All inhabitants were able to safely evacuate the structure. Ross Street is closed south of North Street.  

A rollover accident with a pole and lines down is reported in the area of 5414 Ellicott Street Road.

The vehicle is smoking.

The driver was trapped but a first responder was able to get the door open and the driver was able to self-extricate.  Minor injuries.

Bethany Fire and ambulance responding.

UPDATE 6:54 p.m.: Traffic is partially blocked. Traffic control is requested.  

It’s not exactly trying to “steal the election,” but the removal of a couple political signs supporting Erica O'Donnell in her bid for an at-large seat on Batavia City Council has an Ellicott Street resident hopping mad.

Diana Kastenbaum is reporting that both of her O'Donnell for City Council yard signs – one on Ellicott and one on Richmond Avenue -- were stolen in the last 24 hours.

“And it’s not even Halloween yet,” she stated in an email to The Batavian.

O’Donnell is the lone Democratic Party candidate in a four-person race for three at-large positions. She is running against incumbent Republicans Eugene Jankowski Jr., Robert Bialkowski and Jeremy Karas.

“The Republican signs for Council are all still standing on Ellicott.  This has happened in the past to Dem signs, but not the Republicans signs in the City of Batavia,” Kastenbaum said.

“Someone left a note in my mailbox today to say Erica's signs were no longer in my front yard. I didn't notice if they were there this morning, but when I came home from work only the stakes were left.  Of course, I will replace them, but every year we have to deal with this nonsense and no one seems to do anything about it.”

When informed of Kastenbaum’s predicament, Jankowski said he could understand why she would be annoyed.

“I don’t understand what people gain by that,” he said. “I know that in past elections, a few of my signs went missing.”

He also theorized that it could be an O’Donnell supporter who wanted a sign to put up somewhere else.

“I mean, in a couple of days, they’ll all be coming down so if you want one, just ask and you can get one for free,” he said.

Assistant Police Chief Chris Camp said that the Batavia PD has received no reports of political signs being removed from yards in the city thus far this election season.

Photo from yesterday Joanne Meiser.

While falling short of the $3 million predicted by Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp.’s chief financial officer, the 2021 third quarter nevertheless turned out to be a record three-month period at Batavia Downs Gaming.

WROTB’s 17 participating municipalities will be receiving $2,518,587 in earnings from July, August and September and another $62,729 in surcharge in September, according to figures released Thursday by CFO Jacquelyne Leach.

"We fell short because we were able to come to an agreement with the Batavia Downs Gaming Union to provide a much deserved bonus and wage adjustment to our gaming union employees," Leach said.

Furthermore, illustrating the facility’s recent surge in activity, earnings and surcharge distributions of $4.4 million for the first nine months of 2021 are $1.2 million more when compared to the first nine months of 2019 -- a 39.48 percent increase, Leach reported.

Genesee County will be receiving $53,393 in earnings from the third quarter and $1,090 in surcharge from September. For the year, the combined amount going to Genesee is $93,344 – up from $71,287 for the same period in 2019.

The years 2021 and 2019 were used since 2020’s earnings were adversely affected by COVID-19.

The third-quarter numbers for the other GLOW counties are as follows:

Livingston -- $57,738 in earnings and $1,129 in surcharge (September);

Orleans -- $37,144 and $634;

Wyoming -- $36,771 and $671.

Surcharge and earnings distributions for the other GLOW counties for 2021 are as follows:

Livingston -- $100,232 (up from $77,427 in 2019);

Orleans -- $63,187 (up from 51,822 in 2019);

Wyoming -- $63,382 (up from $49,969 in 2019).

Press release:

On October 29th students at Jackson Primary celebrated Halloween along with other fun fall activities during our second annual “Community Helper Day.”  We also provided fun alternate activities for those who do not celebrate Halloween. 

Students came dressed in their costumes for Halloween and paraded outside to visit the community helpers and their respective vehicles in the bus loop. Students were able to see real-life community heroes dressed in their everyday uniforms. 

These community helpers devoted their time to hand candy and goodies out to students at Jackson Primary. The community helpers included an EMT from Mercy Flight, Town and City of Batavia Fire Departments, New York State Troopers, Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy, Pastor Roula from First Presbyterian Church, Bruce Scolfield from Scofield Roll-Off Services, Rachael Tabelski, City Manager who organized The Department of Public Works, First Student of America bus transportation, Kyle Heassler, P.A. from Three Little Birds, Fay Fuerch and K9 Handley from the NYS DEC, Community Schools and Board of Education members John Reigle, Jennifer Lendvay and Michelle Humes. Prior to the event, students learned about who community helper was and why they are important in our community. We felt it was important for students to know that when they choose a costume of a community helper, now they see a real HERO.

The Batavia Police Benevolent Association and Firefighters Association each donated a bike to be raffled off to two Jackson Primary students for “Spooktacular” behavior. We would also like to thank McDonald’s for their donation of ice cream and apple slice coupons.

Jackson has had a long-standing partnership with the First Presbaratyian Church and they provided cider and treat bags for the students. Tim Horton’s also provided over 1000 TimBits. 

We are so thankful these community helpers took the time out of their busy schedules to educate students about potential career choices. We look forward to continuing to deepen our partnership with these community helpers in Batavia. We wanted it to be a day the students would not forget! I think together, we accomplished that!!!

Photos by Steve Ognibene.

Seven NFL Hall of Famers -- including Buffalo Bills’ greats Andre Reed, Jim Kelly (photo above), Thurman Thomas and Joe DeLamielluere – and former Major League Baseball standouts Ron Guidry and Paul Molitor are headlining this weekend’s Legends & Stars Batavia Sports Expo at Batavia Downs Gaming on Park Road.

The event runs from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. today and from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday.

“We have a tremendous lineup of sports legends with us this year,” said Ryan Hasenauer, Batavia Downs Gaming marketing director. “This gives people an opportunity to come out and purchase all kinds of great memorabilia and cards – anything sports related.”

Other NFL Hall of Famers scheduled to appear are linebacker Rickey Jackson, halfback Lenny Moore and tight end Kellen Winslow Sr.

Guidry, a left-hander pitcher, is a two-time World Series champion with the New York Yankees (1977-78) and won the Cy Young Award in 1978. Molitor, an infielder and designated hitter, is a member of the 3,000 hit club and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2004.

Hasenauer said collectors will be glad to know that many vendors have signed up to participate.

Admission is $10 person each day and must be paid in cash. Each paid admission guest receives the following:

• $10 Casino free play voucher (only for guests ages 18 & up);
• One raffle ticket for “Dealer Bucks” Giveaways awarded throughout the day.

Children 12 & Under are admitted at no charge, but will not receive a raffle ticket or a casino free play voucher.

The lineup for “legends and stars” and their autograph session times are as follows. Prices for autographs vary depending upon the item to be signed. Photo opportunities also will be available.

TODAY

-- Joe Cribbs, running back, Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins; 3x All-Pro. 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

-- Joe DeLamielluere, offensive guard,  Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns; HOF '03, 6x Pro Bowl, 8x All-Pro. 6 to 7 p.m.

-- Jordan Poyer, safety, Buffalo Bills. 6 to 7 p.m.

-- Andre Reed, wide receiver, Buffalo Bills, Washington Redskins; HOF '14, 4x AFC Champ, 7x Pro Bowl. 7 to 8 p.m.

-- Thurman Thomas, running back, Buffalo Bills; HOF '07, 1991 NFL MVP, 5x Pro Bowl, 4x AFC Champ. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY

-- Carlos "Boogie" Basham Jr., defensive end, Buffalo Bills; 2021 2nd Round Draft Pick. 3 to 4 p.m.

-- Marty Cordova, left fielder, Minnesota Twins, Toronto Blue Jays, Cleveland Indians, Baltimore Orioles; 1995 AL ROY. 11 a.m. to noon.

-- Doug Drabek, pitcher, New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates, Houston Astros, Chicago White Sox, Baltimore Orioles; 1990 NL Cy Young, 1994 All-Star. 11 a.m. to noon.

-- Ron Guidry (photo above), pitcher, New York Yankees; 2x World Series Champ, 1978 AL Cy Young, 5x Gold Glove, 4x All-Star, Yankees Co-Captain 1986-88. 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

-- Micah Hyde, safety, Buffalo Bills, Green Bay Packer; 2017 Pro Bowl. 1 to 2 p.m.

-- Rickey Jackson, linebacker, New Orleans Saints, San Francisco 49ers; HOF '10, Super Bowl XXIX Champion, 6x Pro Bowl. 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

-- Stevie Johnson, wide receiver, Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, San Diego Chargers; 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

-- Jim Kelly, quarterback, Buffalo Bills; HOF '02, 5x Pro Bowl, 4x AFC Champ. Noon to 1 p.m.

-- Dawson Knox, tight end, Buffalo Bills; 2 to 3 p.m.

-- Paul Molitor, infielder/DH, Milwaukee Brewers, Toronto Blue Jays, Minnesota Twins; HOF '04, 3,000 Hit Club, 1993 World Series Champ, 1993 WS MVP, 7x All-Star, 4x Silver Slugger. Noon to 1 p.m.

-- Lenny Moore, halfback/wide receiver, Baltimore Colts; HOF '75, 2x NFL Champion, 1956 NFL ROY, 1964 NFL MVP, 7x Pro Bowl. 11 a.m. to noon.

-- Eric Moulds, wide receiver, Buffalo Bills, Houston Texans, Tennessee Titans; 3x Pro Bowl. 1 to 2 p.m.

-- Andre Rison, wide receiver, Indianapolis Colts, Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, Green Bay Packers, Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders; Super Bowl XXXI Champion, 1990 All Pro, 5x Pro Bowl. 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

-- Greg Rousseau, defensive end, Buffalo Bills; 2021 1st Round Draft Pick. 2 to 3 p.m.

-- Devin Singletary, running back, Buffalo Bills. 2 to 3 p.m.

-- Sean Waltman, WWE Hall of Famer/DX Member. Noon to 3 p.m.

-- Kellen Winslow Sr., tight end, San Diego Chargers; HOF '02, 3x All-Pro, 5x Pro Bowl. 1 to 2 p.m.

Celebrity Bartending to Benefit Connor O’Neil

A celebrity bartending event is set for 8:30 tonight at the Labatt Blue Zone at 34 Rush. A portion of food and drink purchases made from 8:30-10:30 p.m. will benefit Connor O’Neil, a 9-year-old boy from Lockport who has been stricken with a rare form of malignant brain cancer.

Appearing will be 97 Rock’s DJ Jickster, Channel 2’s Patrick Hammer, Channel 4’s Dave Greber, Buffalo Hockey Legend Danny Gare and Thurman Thomas.

There will be live auctions for autographed sports memorabilia as well with all proceeds benefitting #ConnorStrong. For more information on #ConnorStrong, visit https://connorstrong.org/.

Elba beat Marion in five sets yesterday at Elba in the Class D Girls Volleyball Sectional Quarter file.

Elba won the second, fourth, and fifth sets, 25-16, 27-25, and 25-10.  They lost sets by scores of 25-20 and 25-21.

Laci Sewar had six aces, six kills, and 16 digs.  Carolyn Sybertz, six aces, four kills, and seven digs.  Rachel Walls, eight kills and five digs.  Sydney Reilly, 35 digs and two aces.  Alexandra Belluscio, five kills, and two blocks.  Kennedy Augello, 19 assists.

Phots by Debra Reilly.