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Reminder: Challenger Baseball game at Dwyer Saturday before Muckdogs vs. Tarp Skunks game

By Press Release

Press release:

In their continued effort to make an impact in the community, the Batavia Muckdogs have teamed up with the Challenger Division Baseball League to host a game at Dwyer Stadium at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 19th.

Challenger Baseball is a community program sponsored by the YMCA and Arc of Genesee & Orleans that provides children in the area with disabilities the opportunity to play organized baseball.

With the generous support of volunteers trained in disability awareness and sensitivity, these athletes who range from ages 5-21 can have the unique opportunity to play the sports they love.

Players, coaches, and other Muckdog personnel will be on the field assisting the game that will be free to season ticket holders and other fans in attendance.

Later in the afternoon, the Jamestown Tarp Skunks will come into town to play the Muckdogs, with the start time of the PGCBL showdown still to be determined.

The rest of the Challenger Divison Baseball League games will be played at nearby MacArthur Park and hosted by Batavia Youth Baseball. They are very excited to have such a special event held at Dwyer Stadium and hope to see the community out to support them.

For any questions about the event or to learn more about the Arc of Genesee & Orleans, please reach out to Director Shelley Falitico at her email, sfalitico@arcogo.org, or on their website.

Go Dogs!

Friday was Farm Day at Byron-Bergen Elementary School

By Press Release

Above, an FFA member teaches a younger student about livestock.  

Submitted photos and press release:

On Friday, June 11, the Byron-Bergen FFA brought agriculture education to the Kindergarten classes. Members of the Future Farmers of America introduced the younger students to a variety of animals including cows, sheep, goats and ducks.

The outdoor event on the Elementary School grounds was a collaboration between FFA advisor Jeffrey Parnapy and Kindergarten teacher Ayn Gardner.

“We reached out to local people who own animals, a farmer brought his tractor in, and we’re also learning about different kinds of feed,” Parnapy said. “Both 4H and FFA members are presenting their animals and answering the kindergarteners’ questions.”

In some cases, the younger students were able to touch the animals.

“I like petting the lambs,” said kindergartener Evelyn Haywood.

“Looking around today, I already think that this is going to have to be a yearly event,” Parnapy said. “Everyone is having a blast and I’m so excited that we were able to provide this experience for the kindergarten students.”

Upstate Milk donated milk and cheese sticks for all the students and the FFA provided goodie bags for participating elementary students.

First three photos courtesy of Amanda Dedie. Bottom photo courtesy of Ayn Gardner.

Above, 4H member participating in Byron-Bergen Farm Day.

Above, Byron-Bergen students.

Above, students learn about farm machinery.

Seven DIGIES awarded among 13 Genesee County students

By Press Release

Image: A first-place Graphic Arts creation, grades 10 to 12, by Michelle Jefferson from Dansville Central Schools called "Neon Lights."

Submitted image and press release:

The DIGIES is an annual digital media conference and festival run by the School Library Service, a program of the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership.

The mission of The DIGIES is to strengthen the digital media continuum between Pre-K-12 schools, higher education and professional institutions. The DIGIES recognizes student potential in an annual festival format and draws student entries from throughout the region and the Upstate New York area.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this in-person awards’ ceremony was canceled. Emilee Williamson and Andrea Fetterly, library technologies’ specialists, coordinate this conference. Fetterly said despite the pandemic, this year’s festival drew a number of entries.

“We are excited to celebrate the amazing creativity and skill demonstrated by the participants in this year's DIGIES festival," Fetterly said. "Despite a much different school year with remote learning and other extraordinary circumstances, students continue to achieve great success."

Congratulations to these imaginative students!

Audio

Seventh-ninth Grades

  • First Place: Gadge Savastano -- "Irregular Time" -- Mount Morris Central School
  • Second Place: Harper Antonucci -- "Right Side Up" -- Geneseo Central School

10th-12th Grades

  • First Place: Matt Sullivan -- "The Digies Beat" -- Wildwood Education Center GST BOCES
  • Second Place: Desinee Woodworth -- "Fade Out" -- Dansville Central School
  • Third Place: Benjamin Scoins, Devon Vaughn, Ainsley Czechowicz -- "Shooting for a Cure" -- Pembroke Central School

Graphic Arts

Pre-K-third Grades

  • FIRST PLACE: Aiden Palmer -- "Aiden Catches the Rainbow" -- Pavilion Central School

Fourth-sixth Grades

  • First Place: Mrs. Sylor’s 5th Grade Class -- "Class Portrait" -- Livonia Central School
  • Second Place: Madelyn Burnett -- "Burning Bush" -- Southwestern Central School
  • Second Place: Avery Boor -- "Stitch Digital Drawing" -- Avon Central School
  • Third Place: Evie Walters -- "Comfortable Cat" -- Livonia Central School
  • Third Place: Zuli Mayer -- "Shy Smile" -- Lancaster William Street Central School

Seventh-ninth Grades

  • First Place: Aniya Ellsworth -- "Digital Mosaic" -- Eden Middle/High School
  • Second Place: Gregory Martin -- "Virtual Gallery" -- Rush-Henrietta Central School
  • Third Place: Parker Baldwin -- "Virtual Gallery" -- Rush-Henrietta Central School

10th-12th Grades

  • First Place: Michelle Jefferson -- "Neon Lights" -- Dansville Central School
  • Second Place: Anna Wojtas – "Bridge" -- Brockport Central School
  • Third Place: DezaRay Burley -- "New World" -- Wildwood Education Center GST BOCES

Interactive

Pre-K-third Grades

  • First Place: Mrs. Leanord’s first-grade class (Ace Friday, Brianna Gilmore, Kylie Greenway, Tyler Hanvey, Evelyn Holmes, Isabella Jackson, Aubrie Jordan, Michaela MacPherson, Kate Rehberg, Gavin Rubert, Atticus Salogar, Luna Santangelo and Frankie Tirabassi) – "Animal Adaptations" – Avon Central School
  • Second Place: Caydence Chappius, Maggie Driscoll, Adelyn Duryea, Callaghan George, Reed Jaros, Charlie Chesnes, Ruby Kyle, Nora Lane, Kenna MacPherson, Conlan McLaughlin, Emma Moran, Donivan Welch, Isabella Tumminelli, Jeremiah Jordan) – "Animal Habitats" – Avon Central School
  • Third Place: Morgan Arber, Briella Bailey, Brooke Clinton, Logan Gaczynski, Evan Hill, Madelyn Hindle, Malcolm Lincourt, Annalisa Murphy, Connor O'Dea, Emily Oyler, Patrick Powers, Layla Price, Kaiden Kellman – "Habitats" – Avon Central School

Fourth-sixth Grades

  • First Place: Julianna Lawson, Annabelle Bajus, Adeline Timothy – "All About Dogs" – Keshequa Central School
  • Second Place: Emerson Currin, Reese Koukides, Cora Weaver – "Snoop Pups" – Le Roy Central School
  • Third Place: Mrs. Dorey’s Fourth Grade Class – "Museum of Invention" – Livonia Central School

10th-12th Grades

  • First Place: Dylan Lewis – "Minecraft World" – Cassadaga Central School
  • Second Place: Anna Burkhartzmeyer, Madeline Cherwonik, Samuel Coyle, Patrick Farrell, Abigail Foley, Dia Gauthier, Eliza Gonzalez, Claire Gratto, Nicholas Nealon, Samantha Place, Laine Ramsay, Colby Reixinger, Natalie Smith, Leia Thibaut – "The Pandemic Publication" – Brockport Central School
  • Third Place – Sean Pies – "High Flyin Vinyl" – Batavia City School

Video

Pre-K-third Grades

  • First Place: Cooper Clark – "Jellyfish" – Livonia Central School
  • Second Place: James McMahon – "Commercial for an Electric Scooter" – Geneseo Central School
  • Third Place: Ethan McMahon – "Commercial for Roller Blades" – Geneseo Central School

Fourth-sixth Grades

  • First Place: Emilia McMahan – “Rainbow Bird” Claymation – Avon Central School
  • Second Place: Sunny Quinn, Lilianna Pragle – "How NOT to Wear a Mask" – Livonia Central School
  • Third Place: Halie Hassell – "Changing the World" – Le Roy Central School

Seventh-ninth Grades

  • First Place: Adam Dolph – "Insane Trick Shots" – Alexander Central School
  • Second Place: Anna Holt, Zoey Wallace, Chloe Hennings – "Roasty Toasty Toaster" – Alexander Central School
  • Third Place: Andrew Lindboom – "Travel Video Paris" – Southwestern Central School

10th-12th Grades

  • First Place: Jacob French – Cookie Jar – Geneseo Central School
  • Second Place: Ashlyn Kreiss – Two’s a Pair – Pittsford Sutherland Central School
  • Third Place: Charlotte Raith – Study Break – Pittsford Sutherland Central School

About the School Library Service

It is a program of the Genesee Valley BOCES. GV BOCES operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties in New York State.

Second annual Walk, Run & Roll July 26 at DeWitt to mark 31 years of the Americans with Disabilities Act

By Press Release

Press release:

Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR) is excited to announce our very first in-person event since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic!  Join us in celebrating the 31st anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act with our Second Annual Walk, Run & Roll!

The event takes place Monday, July 26, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Pavilion 2 of DeWitt Recreation Area, 115 Cedar St. in Batavia, rain or shine.

To register, go to runsignup.com/ilgrwalkrunroll.

For $25 participants can walk, run or roll the distance of their choosing. All participants receive an event T-shirt.

Food trucks will be present, plus a basket raffle and a 50/50 raffle will take place.

Please bring your own chair! COVID-19 guidelines will be followed.

For more information, call Donna Becker at (585) 815-8501, ext. 411.

Thanks to our sponsors: BW’s Restaurant and Banquet Facility, United Refining Company, RESTORE Sexual Assault Services, and R.A. Haitz Co. Inc.

Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR) is a member of the Western New York Independent Living Inc. family of agencies that offers an expanding array of services to aid individuals with disabilities to take control of their own lives.

Eighth through 11th graders invited to apply for GC Youth Court, deadline is Aug. 2

By Press Release

Press release:

Calling all eighth to 11th graders, the Genesee County Youth Court is recruiting new members!

Youth Court is a voluntary alternative for young people who face disciplinary action through school or law enforcement.

Youth who are referred admit to the charge and appear before a court of their peers. Three youth judges listen to both sides of the issue and determine an appropriate disposition. The goal of youth court is to improve youth citizenship skills and decrease problematic behavior.  

Youth Court members learn about the judicial process and law enforcement; develop group decision-making, leadership and public speaking skills; participate in all roles of the courtroom: judge, prosecution, defense, and bailiff.  

Genesee County eighth to 11th graders who are interested can go online to download an application from the website www.co.genesee.ny.us , where you will find a link on the Youth Bureau page.

Applications are due by Aug. 2nd.

Interviews of potential candidates will take place in August and September with the training to begin in October.  

For more information on the Genesee County Youth Court, please contact Chelsea Elliott at the Genesee County Youth Bureau, 344-3960.

Iroquois wildlife refuge seeks bids for 167 acres of grassland hay, deadline is July 2

By Press Release

Press release:

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge will offer for bid 167 acres of grassland hay in three different fields ranging in size from 49 to 60 acres.

The Refuge annually provides a total of 1,100 acres of grassland habitat for migratory birds and resident wildlife. Active management of these grasslands is necessary to provide the highest quality nesting and migration habitat.

The Refuge haying program helps in this management process by reducing encroachment of broad leaf weeds and shrubs.

Hay will be allocated on a highest bid per field basis for each field. Sealed bids will be accepted until close-of-business (COB) on Friday, July 2. An official Bid Sheet, available from the Refuge headquarters, is required to make a bid.

Completed Bid Sheets can be mailed to the Refuge headquarters at 1101 Casey Road, Basom, NY 14013 and must contain all the information requested.

If you have any questions about the haying program or would like to see the fields, please call Paul Hess at (585) 948-5445, ext. 7032.

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge is located midway between Rochester and Buffalo and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Summer reading programs begin June 25 for children and adults at Richmond Memorial Library

By Press Release

Press release:

Richmond Memorial Library invites patrons of all ages to take part in Summer Reading! This year’s theme is animals, with the slogan of “Tails and Tales.” Beginning June 25, children and adults can take part in reading challenges for a chance to win prizes.

The Children's Room at the Richmond Memorial Library is excited to continue its annual Summer Reading Program this summer from June 25 to Aug. 14.

New this year will be reading tracking using Beanstack. As a computer website or a mobile app, Beanstack will help readers track their minutes read, remind them of milestone prize pickups, and engage readers with fun activities to earn an additional end prize.

Children’s Room staff will gladly help families register on Beanstack when the program is available starting June 24. Watch the Children’s Room page on the website for updates. 

Summer reading for adults? Yes, please! Summer Reading BINGO will begin on Friday, June 25 and go through Aug. 21. Complete challenges like reading outside, listening to an audiobook and watching a documentary for a chance to win weekly and grand prizes.

Grand Prizes include a Book Lovers’ Basket, an 8gb Kindle Paperwhite and a piece of book art by a local artist! Weekly prizes will include gift cards and goodies from local establishments.

Registration begins in person at the library and online at batavialibrary.org at 9 a.m. on Friday, June 25.

The adult program is open to anyone 17 years of age or older with a valid library card. Complete rules and information will be provided with registration. Those registered for adult summer reading by July 7 will be entered for a chance to win one of ten copies of our 2021 Richmond Reads book (title to be revealed on July 8)!

In-person programming is back! All children’s programs will be held outdoors, including an All Ages Story time, Lunch Bunch, a Middle School Fidget Trading Club, and Family Fun Fridays. Adult programs include the Richmond Reads Title Reveal on July 8, book and film discussions and more!

Please visit the library website to continue to check for upcoming activities as they are available. For more information, visit http://www.batavialibrary.org or call (585) 343-9550.

Senior in Electro-Mechanical Trades Program at Batavia CTE Center awarded $500 scholarship

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

Henry Schafer is a young man who sets a goal and is not afraid to work hard to achieve it. This senior from Notre Dame High School in Batavia is enrolled in the Electro-Mechanical Trades Program at the Batavia Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center.

Henry was recently awarded the Electrical Association of Western New York’s (WNY) School-to-Work Scholarship for $500. According to the Electrical Association of WNY, the money is to be used toward the cost of tools for individuals seeking a career in the electrical trade.

After graduation, Henry plans to attend Alfred State College of Technology to study Electrical Construction and Maintenance Electrician. His long-term goal is to, “Work as an electrician to take care of myself, my family, and keep a roof over our heads.”

Rich Monroe is the instructor of the Electro-Mechanical Trades Program at the Batavia CTE Center.

“Henry’s growth has been remarkable," Monroe said. "He came into this program as a very timid person. Last summer, he had a co-op job with Turnbull Heating and Air Conditioning where he was able to use the skills that he learned in this program. Henry has a tremendous work ethic.”

Henry is currently in a work co-op program with Bonduelle in Bergen where he is gaining valuable on-the-job experience. This worldwide food processing company has three locations in New York State. 

“I’m learning how to fix motors and ballasts," Henry said. "So much of what I learned in this program is helping me in this co-op."

This humble and shy young man has many accomplishments. He is a member of the National Honor Society at Notre Dame High School and also a member of the National Technical Honor Society at the Batavia CTE Center.  He has been a recipient of the Notre Dame High School Anima Christi Award, and is also a scholar athlete for both cross-country and swimming.

Henry was awarded the New York State Triple C Award, which recognizes the courage, character, and commitment of New York State’s outstanding students.

In Henry’s free time, he volunteers at St. Michael’s Church as an altar server and usher, and helps in his church’s Clothes Closet.  

The Electrical Association of Western New York established a School-to-Work Scholarship in 1998. All applicants are judged on academic achievement in school and personal characteristics by an independent panel of area school educators.

The Electro-Mechanical Trades Program is offered at the Batavia CTE Center, a Genesee Valley BOCES program. GV BOCES operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties in New York State.

Photo from left: Rich Monroe, instructor, Electro-Mechanical Trades Program; student Henry Schaefer; and Maggie Poray, Student Services coordinator, Batavia CTE Center.

Office for the Aging to give out Farmers Market Nutrition Program coupons after July 1

By Press Release

Press release:

Office for the Aging with be distributing Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program coupons again this year! This is expected to begin after July 1st, but not before then.

In an effort to keep socially distant, all the distributions will be held outdoors wherever possible. Please bring your own pen to sign for the booklet.

We will be circulating flyers around the county, announcing the distribution locations. There will also be announcements on WBTA, ads in the local newspaper, Pennysavers and online media outlets.

Don’t forget to check the Office for the Aging on the Genesee County website and Office for the Aging’s Facebook page. For additional information, please call our office at (585) 343-1611.

2021 Batavia Downs stall applications now available

By Press Release

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Horsemen wishing to race at Batavia Downs for the upcoming 2021 summer/fall meet should note that stall applications are now available on the track’s website (www.bataviadownsgaming.com). 

Simply click Live Racing>Horsemen>Stall Application, Agreement & Reservations link to download. Stall applications are also available at the Western New York Harness Horsemen’s Association office located on-site at Buffalo Raceway. 

Batavia Downs will conduct a 59-day meet in 2021, up from 42 days during the pandemic last year and the complete racing schedule can be found at the track's website under Live Racing>Live Racing Schedule. Purse levels were raised at the end of the 2020 season and this year, they are expected to exceed those values. 

“We are looking forward to getting back to normal and welcoming our fans back to the track,” said Todd Haight, director/general manager of Live Racing. “As the vaccination rate in New York has hit the 70-percent mark, we anticipate that most COVID restrictions will be lifted by our opening day and everyone here is excited to see a full in-house crowd enjoying live harness racing at our track once again.”

Racing Secretary Joe Zambito has stated that stall applications must be received by the track no later than Tuesday (July 6). For more information please contact the race office at (585) 344-6161 starting Thursday (July 8). 

The backstretch will open for tack on Thursday (July 15) at 8 a.m. and for horses on Saturday (July 17) at 8 a.m.

The first condition sheet of the year will be out the week of July 12. The opening night card will feature the New York Sire Stakes 2-year-old trotting fillies who will vie for $90,000 (est.) in purses. 

Batavia Downs offers a text messaging service for notices about draws, entries and changes to the racing schedule. Horsemen are strongly encouraged to text the word “HORSEMAN” to 51660. You will then need to reply “YES” and you will be opted in for race office text message updates. 

The 74th season of live harness racing at America’s oldest lighted harness kicks off on Wednesday (July 21) and runs through Saturday (Dec. 11).

Muckdogs need only two hits to secure second straight win, 5-0

By Press Release

Press release:

Batavia rode their 10-5 win against the Niagara Power at Sal Maglie Stadium on Saturday to their second straight win as the Newark Pilots came to Dwyer. By no means was it a pretty game with two hits for the Dogs, but they were disciplined at the plate, drawing 11 total walks.

The Savanna Bananas' dancing first base Coach Maceo Harrison, a viral sensation on social media, also made an appearance for the fans at Dwyer. Harrison showed off his moves in the second, fourth and sixth innings.

Starting pitcher for Newark, Danny Owen, struggled with his location, hitting four batters in his two innings on the mound. Spencer Marcus had an RBI single in the first that scored leadoff hitter Caden Walton who was beamed three times in four at-bats.

Batavia stayed patient at the dish in the second inning, scoring three runs with no hits while stranding the bases loaded. The Muckdogs' other hits came in the bottom of the seventh after Abner Benitez had an RBI triple that also scored Walton.

Julian Pichardo picked up his second win of the 2021 season as the big right-hander from Coastal Alabama CC pitched seven scoreless innings for the Muckdogs. Pichardo only allowed two hits, striking out four Pilots batters and providing large cushions for relievers Kyle Kohlhafer and Nate Novia.

Both Kohlhafer and Novia pitched an inning. They allowed one baserunner each but left them stranded on the basepaths.

Now sitting at 5-5 on the season, Batavia will play at home Monday night against the Elmira Pioneers in an exhibition game that will not count toward their official record.

The games can be viewed on YouTube Live by subscribing to BataviaMuckdogBaseball. Make sure to follow our Twitter @BataviaMuckdogs and liking our Facebook Page, “BataviaMuckdogBaseball.”

Top photo: Julian Pichardo #40 starting pitcher.

To view or purchase pictures, click here.

Photos by Steve Ognibene Photography.

LAW Dance Studio

Savanna Bananas' dancing first base Coach Maceo Harrison​ showing off some moves.

George Parish age 96, World War II vet, of Alexander.

Duo performs selections from 'American Raga' at Blue Pearl Studio Friday, followed by reception at GO ART!

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

Blue Pearl Yoga presents the Padmanabha/Strongmen Duo performing selections from "American Raga," a combination of music from North America and India, on Friday, June 18 at their East Main Street studio.

Ravi Padmanabha is a percussionist, multi-instrumentalist, and composer. Mike Strongmen plays banjo, slide dobro, and the saw.

"American Raga" is the first release by the musical duo.

A reception where guests can meet the artists will immediately follow across the street at GO ART!’s Tavern 2.o.1.

Padmanabha’s initial interest in drum set led to a variety of musical instruments and at 18, began his formal studies in tabla -- a pair of small hand drums attached together, used in Indian music; one slightly larger than the other and played using pressure from the heel of the hand to vary the pitch.

Strongmen is from Nebraska and performs extensively throughout North America.

Together they have found a common ground for a cross-culture collaboration.

Well-versed in a wide variety of musical styles, including jazz, world, and experimental music, Padmanabha has performed at Buffalo's Drum Day and Maelstrom Percussion Ensembles Master Drummers Program. Along with fellow Buffalo musicians, he performed in the William Parker Buffalo Orchestra, which inaugurated the new Righteous Babe Records/Hallwalls performance space.

Padmanabha is also a member of Family FUNKtion and the Sitar Jams, which he formed with his two brothers. They have released two CDs and continue to perform.

Strongman is also active in the Buffalo music scene.

Ravi Padmanabha and Mike Strongmen perform at 7 p.m. at the Blue Yoga Studio, 200 E. Main St., third Floor in Batavia; Tickets are $15; register online at www.bp-yoga.com.

A reception follows across the street at GO ART!’s Tavern 2.o.1 at 201 E. Main St. For more information call (301) 848-4902.

'Lancers vs. The Law' softball game Thursday for scholarship fund, seniors take on deputies and troopers

By Press Release

Submitted photo and information.

Elba Central School is hosting "Softball Showdown: Lancers vs. The Law" this Thursday, June 17th, starting at 5 p.m.

The seniors will be playing a team of Genesee County Sheriffs deputies and NYS Troopers in a showcase game.

Just for fun, Undersheriff Brad Mazur and Deputy Ryan Young stopped out at the school today to take on some good-natured smack-talk from the Lancers.

The school is located at 57 S. Main St. in Elba.

All proceeds will benefit the ECS scholarship fund.

The game will take place on our softball field and tickets are available for $5 in our district office (or at the field).

Food from Chap's Elba Diner, Andy's Pizza, and Los Compadres food truck will be available for purchase as well.

Girls Softball Summer Camp is July 12-14 at BHS varsity ball field, sign up now

By Press Release

From Jim Fazio:

The 2021 summer camp for Girls Softball will be held at the Batavia High School Varsity softball field from 9 a.m. to noon on July 12th-14th. The 15th and 16th will be used as rain dates.

The camp is open to girls ages 8-17 (age 8 to upcoming senior in high school) from any town.

The camp will feature Batavia Varsity Softball Coach Jim Fazio, Cheektowaga Coach Kevin Walkowski, Batavia Varsity Assistant Coach and Athletes Edge Coach Brian Mruczek, Batavia JV Coach Jamie Masters, Batavia Modified Coach Toni PLatten, and Batavia Stingers Coach Stan Kaus.

The camp will focus on the fundamentals of the game including hitting, throwing, fielding, base running, and pitching.

A catcher (can be a friend, parent, etc.) must be provided for those taking part in the pitching lessons, which are 9:15-10 a.m. All players will be grouped according to age, ability, or both.

Cost of the camp is $50 and includes a camp T-shirt. Multiple kids from the same family will cost $45 per player.

Make checks payable to Batavia Softball Boosters and mail to: Jim Fazio, 5190 Ellicott Street Road, Batavia, NY 14020 Contact info: (585) 356-0901, email:  jfazio@gvboces.org

For an application to print out, click here.

For the required waiver form acknowleging student athlete's assumption of risk of physical injury, click here.

Portion of North Spruce and Farwell Drive to close tomorrow for stormwater infrastructure work

By Press Release

From the city's Bureau of Maintenance:

North Spruce Street (East Avenue to North Street) and Farwell Drive (North Spruce Street to Trumbull Parkway) will be closed to all through traffic. This will occur on Tuesday, June 15 between the hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the installation of stormwater facilities.

Residents and property owners within the closure may experience limited or delayed access to and from their residence. All throughout the roadwork, motorists are asked to seek an alternate route.

Thank you for your cooperation in advance.

Muckdogs can't get tying run across in ninth, lose 7-6

By Press Release

Press release:

At some points this season, it seems like the Muckdogs just haven’t been able to catch a break.

With the game hanging in the balance heading into the bottom of the ninth, Batavia trailed the Geneva Red Wings 7-5. Pinch hitter Caden Walton was beaned in the elbow on the first pitch he saw, and Cameron Conley also reached base after being walked on four pitches.

Abner Benitez kept his hitting streak alive as he laid down a bunt against southpaw reliever Ryan Gassler after first baseman Noah Reichman fielded the bunt and tried to get the lead runner Walton at third, but Walton reached before the throw.

Spencer Marcus stepped up to the plate down two runs with based loaded and no outs in what felt like a perfect scenario. Gassler hit Marcus in the foot with a breaking ball to cut the deficit to just one as the Muckdogs were in a prime position to win on Batavia Blue Devil Night.

Cleanup hitter Daniel Burroway struck out for the first out of the inning, but star outfielder/pitcher Blair Frederick was due up next in a great spot to have a walk-off in his first game as a Muckdog. In a 1-1 count, Frederick ripped a ball up the middle, and Gassler made an athletic play to catch the line drive and throw the ball over to third to complete the double play. And just like that, the game was over.

Batavia had the opportunity to cash in runners throughout the ballgame as well, leaving 12 runners left on base and the Muckdogs continue to struggle in that category. Starting Pitcher Nathan Hinkley was credited with the loss after going 5.2 innings, allowing 11 hits and six earned runs.

Catcher Joey Battaglia and third basemen Jerry Reinhart had great nights at the plate, scoring two runs apiece and having base hits in the three-run fourth inning for the Dogs.

The Muckdogs will now travel to Sal Maglie Stadium to square off against the Niagara Power for their first meeting of 2021. First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m. Batavia will be back home for a 4:05 p.m. game Sunday against the Newark Pilots.

Today’s game can be viewed on YouTube Live by subscribing to BataviaMuckdogBaseball. Make sure to follow our Twitter @BataviaMuckdogs and liking our Facebook Page, “BataviaMuckdogBaseball.”

Benitez six-game hitting streak not enough to lift Batavia's offense against Jamestown

By Press Release

Press release:

On the 80th anniversary of Russell E. Diethrick Park, the Jamestown Tarp Skunks picked up their fifth win of the season in a 9-0 victory against the Muckdogs Thursday night.

Not being able to drive in base runners in scoring position and minimizing errors in the field that create crooked numbers on the scoreboard was the difference in the ball game. Batavia was 0-7 with runners in scoring position and left double-digit runners stranded on the base paths.

The fifth inning has been cursed for the Muckdogs so far this season, as Jamestown added five more runs to their 2-0 lead. Three errors in the field played a large part in the blowup inning, with only two of the five runs scored were earned runs for starting pitcher Dathon McGrath.

For Batavia, Abner Benitez increased his hitting streak to six games after a single in the top of the fourth inning, as the Alabama State outfielder is hitting .414. Both Benitez and Daniel Burroway had two-hit performances for the Dogs, as they both had their hits in the fourth and ninth innings, respectively. Luis Rodriguez and Michael Florides had the two other hits for the Muckdogs.

The Muckdogs look to get back to their winning ways on Batavia Blue Devil night at Dwyer Stadium against the Geneva Red Wings tonight (June 11th). Geneva is second in the West Division with a 4-2 record. Last night the Red Wings lost to the Elmira Pioneers extra innings by a score of 5-4.

First pitch is scheduled for a 7:05 start Saturday night. Tomorrow’s game can be viewed on YouTube Live by subscribing to BataviaMuckdogBaseball. Make sure to follow our Twitter @BataviaMuckdogs and liking our Facebook Page, “BataviaMuckdogBaseball.”

Health Department reports seven new COVID-19 cases, suspends biweekly updates

By Press Release

Press release:

Genesee County reporting seven new positive cases of COVID-19.

  • The individuals are in their 20s, 40s, 60s and 70s. 
  • One of the current positive individuals is hospitalized.
  • Seven of the previous positive individuals have completed their 10-day isolation and have been removed from mandatory isolation.

Orleans County reporting two new positive cases of COVID-19.  

  • The individuals are in their 40s and 70s.
  • Zero of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.
  • Two of the previous positive individuals have completed their 10-day isolation and have been removed from mandatory isolation.

Today's COVID-19 update from the Health Department including the following notice:

Today is our last scheduled biweekly press briefing for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments due to the lower new COVID cases for both counties.

Although we will not be doing the biweekly media push, please note we will continue to report our numbers via our website at a minimum of twice per week (GOHealthNY.org), on our social media platforms, and via the Genesee-Orleans-Wyoming COVID-19 Case and Vaccination Tracker (which updates Monday through Friday, except holidays).

For regular updates related to GO Health COVID-19 Data, please visit our GO Health website at www.GOHealthNY.org and choose Emerging Issues. There you will find: the data chart as on our regular briefing; links to the Genesee-Orleans-Wyoming COVID Tracking Map; NY Forward for state updates; The Finger Lakes Vaccine Hub for updated data on GO Health vaccination; as well as links for vaccination and testing clinics.

Also keep an eye on our social media platforms: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (GOHealthNY is our user name for all three) as we will regularly post updates.

Batavia CTE Center announces seniors' achievements

By Press Release

Above, Jon Sanfratello, executive principal GV BOCES Batavia Campus, presents the First Place Charles Holowach Memorial Scholarship to Haylee Thornley (right), a Health Careers Academy student from Batavia CSD.

Submitted photos and press release:

The Batavia Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center is proud to announce the achievements of its seniors. They received recognition at an awards ceremont Thursday night.

The 20 award winners, their programs, home schools and scholarships received, are noted below.

James Burns -- Building Trades, Pavilion CSD, Livingston Associates Award

Travis Fagan -- Building Trades, Batavia CSD, Blakeslee Memorial Award

Zachary Friedhaber -- Electro-Mechanical Trades, Attica CSD, James P. Donnelly Award

Daniel Gersitz -- Metal Trades, Attica CSD, Charles Holowach Memorial Scholarship

Troy Helsdon -- Building Trades, Batavia CSD, Doug Dayton Memorial Award

Nicole Hume -- Metal Trades, Alexander CSD, Gene Haas Foundation Award, Master Manufacturing Scholarship, Student of the Year – Monday/Tuesday

Dontrell Jenkins -- Criminal Justice, Oakfield-Alabama CSD, Student of the Year – Thursday/Friday

Travis Kauffman -- Building Trades, Attica CSD, I. J. Radesi Memorial Award

Isaiah Merrell -- Culinary Arts, Batavia Academy/Byron-Bergen CSD, Chef Russell Bugbee Memorial Award, Josh Mouery Memorial Award

Chase Pangrazio -- Metal Trades, Batavia CSD, Batavia Rotary Scholarship

Emma Raines -- Health Careers Academy, Alexander CSD, School Related Personnel Award

Bryce Ratajczak -- Building Trades, Attica CSD, Paul Levins Memorial Award

Kaiel Robinson -- Electro-Mechanical Trades, Le Roy CSD, James P. Donnelly Award

Henry Schafer -- Electro-Mechanical Trades, Notre Dame High School/Batavia CSD, Roy H. Turnbull Memorial Award

Matthew Schroeder -- Electro-Mechanical Trades, Adult Student, Livingston Associates Award

Karly Smith -- Justice Academy, Oakfield-Alabama CSD, Charles Holowach Memorial Scholarship

Cole Sullivan -- Electro-Mechanical Trades, Le Roy CSD, Electro-Mechanical Trades Alumni Award

Haylee Thornley -- Health Careers Academy, Batavia CSD, Charles Holowach Memorial Scholarship

Timothy Walsh -- Building Trades, Batavia CSD, Pullinzi Family Scholarship

Justin Wight -- Building Trades, Oakfield-Alabama CSD, Batavia Rod & Gun Club Memorial Scholarship

Below, Chef Tracy Burgio (left) presents Isaiah Merrell with the Chef Russell Bugbee Memorial Award and Josh Mouery Memorial Award. He's a Culinary Arts student from Batavia Academy/Byron-Bergen CSD.

Below, Bethany Ricci (left), GV BOCES instructor, presents the Student of the Year Award -- Thursday and Friday to Dontrell Jenkins, a Criminal Justice student, Oakfield-Alabama CSD.

Below, Bethany Ricci (left), GV BOCES instructor, presents the Student of the Year Award -- Monday and Tuesday to Nicole Hume, a Metal Trades student from Alexander CSD. 

Hawley: For next legislative session -- more pragmatism needed, less progressivism

By Press Release

A statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley:

"This legislative session we passed the most bloated budget in our history, eviscerated Second Amendment rights, raised taxes and failed to gain any new information about the highly questionable actions of our governor.

"The Majority gave over double what they did to small businesses to illegal immigrants, and stood silent as those small businesses were forced to close their doors because of the governor’s nonsensical restrictions, which they did not work to rescind.

"A focus on passing progressive, activist legislation has left the kitchen-table concerns of working families unaddressed, while pleasing only a small vocal minority of radicals that drown out the voices of everyday people. I only hope soon the Majority will realize the consequences of ignoring those voices."

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