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Press Release:

The Batavia City School District (BCSD) is proud to announce it has once again been honored with the 2025 NAMM Foundation’s Best Communities for Music Education designation, recognizing its continued excellence and longstanding commitment to comprehensive music education. 

The designation honors districts that demonstrate exceptional achievement in ensuring access to high-quality music education for all students. This marks the second consecutive year BCSD has earned this national honor, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in music education.

Superintendent Jason Smith said of the honor, “We are incredibly proud to once again be recognized as one of the Best Communities for Music Education. Receiving this distinction two years in a row is a true reflection of our district’s commitment to fostering a well-rounded education where the arts—and especially music—play a central role. From our elementary school instrumental and vocal programs to high school ensembles, marching band, and theater productions, Batavia students have access to meaningful, enriching music experiences at every stage of their education. As someone who personally benefited from our music program, I’m thrilled to see our students and staff receive this well-deserved national recognition.”

“Being honored with this award for the second consecutive year speaks volumes about the strength and depth of our music program here at BCSD. Our students engage in everything from voice and instrument lessons to performing in chorus, orchestra, rock band, pep band, and musical productions. This achievement belongs to our students, our passionate music educators, and the families and community members who continue to support the arts. We are building something truly special in Batavia, and I’m excited to see where we go from here,” said Melzie Case, BCSD Music Department Chair.

To qualify for the Best Communities designation, BCSD answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified by school officials and reviewed by the leading arts educational research firm, WolfBrown.

Two awards are given each year: Best Communities for Music Education (BCME) for school districts and the SupportMusic Merit Award (SMMA) for individual school sites. Both reach K-12 schools and districts throughout the U.S. and offer opportunities to increase awareness and support for music programs. Over 1,000 districts and individual school sites (public, private, charter, parochial) were recognized for having the highest commitment to producing exceptional music programs.

Press Release:

Emmanuel Baptist Church’s Community Garden is looking for green thumbs to come and grow! We have 20 raised 3X4 garden plots, water, tools, seeds, and fertilizer. We need gardeners! Do you want to provide fresh from the garden veggies or flowers for your family? Come grow with us! 

The Sun is shining and the plots have been re-done with new soil but not enough people signed up for plots! We still have several in need of gardeners. Plots are free till gone! Call 585-343-4905 or email ebcbatavia@gmail.com to sign up!

Press Release:

On May 15, 2025, Byron-Bergen senior Mikayla Yohon committed to continuing her formal education after graduation at Genesee Community College (GCC) where she will compete as a member of the swim team. The official signing was witnessed by Byron-Bergen Le Roy Varsity Swim Team Coach Sara Stockwell, GCC Head Swim Coach Ethan Heim, and Yohon’s
parents.

“I’ve coached Mikayla for 5 years,” said Stockwell. “She joined in the 8th grade. She is extremely talented, especially at the butterfly. It’s been a pleasure watching her swim and I’m going to miss her personality and the times when she really was a leader on the team.” 

While at Byron-Bergen, Yohon participated in Varsity Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Swim Team, and Track. In her time on the Byron-Bergen Leroy swim team, she set three new team records and won countless events. Her fastest event times include the 100 Butterfly (1:05.5), 50 Freestyle (25.98), 100 Freestyle (58.76), and 50 Butterfly (27.50).

“I would like to thank both of my coaches, Fix and Stockwell, and my teammates for really helping me in the pool setting and making me the swimmer I am today,” said Yohon. “In addition, I want to thank my parents for helping me succeed and achieve my goals.” 

Yohon plans to enter GCC’s Health Studies program with the intent of a career in nursing.

Press Release:

The Le Roy American Legion Auxiliary Unit 576, is pleased to announce Briar Eadie has been selected as the Poppy Girl for 2025.

Briar is the daughter of Benjamin and Andi (DeBellis) Eadie of Le Roy and the granddaughter of Ben and Maureen (Beany Zimmerman) Eadie of Le Roy and Ronald (Togo) and Cathy (Sipos) DeBellis of Lyndonville. Brair is 9 years old and a 2nd grader at Wolcott Street School in Le Roy.

Additionally, the Auxiliary is also excited to introduce, for the first time, the Poppy Ambassadors, Noah Ford and Elijah Ford. Noah is 9 years old and a 3rd grader at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School in Cheektowaga. Elijah is 12 years old and is in the 7th grade at John F Kennedy High School in Cheektowaga. Noah and Elijah are the sons of Rebecca (Feneran) Ford and grandsons of the late Richard (Dick) and Deborah Feneran of Le Roy.

Notably, Deborah previously served as Chairperson of the Auxiliary Annual Poppy program for years, and Dick was a proud Vietnam Veteran.

History of the Poppy

After World War I, the poppy flourished in Europe. Scientists attributed the growth to soils in France and Belgium becoming enriched with lime from the rubble left by the war. The red poppy came to symbolize the blood shed by those who fought and those who continue to fight for our country following the publication of the wartime poem “In Flanders Fields.” The poem was written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, M.D. while serving on the front line in World War I, to honor soldiers killed in battle.

Proceeds from the Poppy sales can only be used to benefit the mission to support the future of veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families with medical and financial needs. 

In Flanders Fields By John McCrae

In Flanders’ Fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved, and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders’ Fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders’ Fields.

Members of the Auxiliary will have Poppies available Memorial Day Weekend at Tops and Save-A-Lot, and at the Memorial Day Parade or stop by the Legion at 53 West Main Street, Le Roy on Wednesdays or Fridays from 5 to 10 p.m. Stop by and pick up a Poppy and if you can give a donation. If you would like to donate, please mail to American Legion Auxiliary, 53 West Main St, Le Roy.

Congratulations, Brair, Noah and Elijah!

Press Release:

As a responsible driver, it's essential to know how to react when pulled over by the police. Following these simple steps can help ensure a safe and respectful interaction for both you and the officer. 

Stay Calm and Cooperative 

• Remain calm and composed: Avoid sudden movements, and keep your hands visible on the steering wheel or in plain sight.
• Cooperate with the officer's instructions: Follow their directions and answer their questions clearly and honestly. 

Safety Precautions 

• Pull over to a safe location: Move your vehicle to a well-lit, safe area, away from traffic, if possible. If at nighttime turn on the interior lights of your vehicle.
• Turn off your engine and keep your seatbelt on: This helps prevent any accidental movements and ensures your safety. Be sure to roll down your window to converse with the officer.
• Keep your hands visible and avoid sudden movements: This helps the officer feel more at ease and reduces the risk of misunderstandings.
• Report any firearms or weapons immediately: Do not attempt to retrieve a weapon or hand any weapon to an officer, follow the instructions given by the officer to ensure a safe interaction. 

Be Prepared and Respectful 

• Have your license, registration, and proof of insurance ready: Keep these documents easily accessible to avoid delays.
• Be respectful and courteous: Address the officer politely and avoid arguing or becoming confrontational.
• Do not argue with the officer: If you disagree with the reason for being stopped simply advise the officer of this and remain calm. If issued a traffic ticket you will granted an opportunity in court to dispute the allegations of a traffic violation. 

Remember Your Rights 

• You have the right to remain silent: If you're unsure about answering a question, you can politely decline to respond.
• You have the right to ask for a supervisor: If you feel uncomfortable or have concerns, you can request a supervisor's presence. 

By following these simple steps, you can help ensure a safe and respectful interaction when pulled over by the police. Remember to stay calm, cooperative, and respectful, and always prioritize your safety and the safety of others.

Press Release:

The Batavia City School District is proud to acknowledge the Batavia High School Production Club’s recent success at the Rochester Broadway Theater League’s (RBTL) Stars of Tomorrow Competition held on Friday, May 9, at the West Herr Auditorium Theater in Rochester.

BHS was recognized for its March 2025 production of Disney’s Newsies.

48 local schools were adjudicated and recognized for their achievements this high school musical season, and Batavia High School’s production of Disney’s Newsies received the following recognition from the RBTL:

• Excellence in Dance Ensemble
• Excellence in Production Design
• Excellence in Production Crew
• Excellence in Student Orchestra
• Excellence in a Leading Role: Gavynn Trippany as "Jack Kelly" & Gus Crawford as "Davey"

At the event, Batavia performed excerpts from the songs “King of NY,” and “Once and For All” from Disney’s Newsies.

The complete list of winners at this year’s RBTL’s Stars of Tomorrow competition can be found here.

Press Release:

The Batavia Muckdogs are excited to announce their next five signings of the 2025 season.

Batavia will welcome back a fan favorite as well as some new faces. 2024 Returner and Batavia Native RHP/OF – Bryceton Berry, RHP – Erwins Branche, RHP/INF – Cameron Copple, RHP – Samuel Gil, and OF – Travis Hammond join the Dogs this summer at Dwyer Stadium.

Bryceton Berry is a 6’1 outfielder and pitcher from Batavia, and a sophomore at Flagler College. Returning for his second season with the Muckdogs, Bryceton brings two-way value to the roster. Last season, he appeared in 13 games, posting a .227 batting average while scoring 10 runs on five hits and collecting five RBIs.

Erwins Branche is a 6’3 right-handed pitcher from the Bronx, and a sophomore at Saint Xavier University. A transfer with experience at both Herkimer College and Jacksonville State University, Erwins brings a strong frame and competitive edge to the mound. During his time at Herkimer, he pitched 22.2 innings and posted a 4.76 ERA.

Cameron Copple is a 5’11 right-handed pitcher and infielder from Tampa, Florida, and a freshman at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. A true two-way player, Cameron has made his presence felt on the mound and at the plate this season. He’s pitched 25.1 innings, posting an impressive 2.13 ERA. Offensively, he’s appeared in 53 at-bats, scoring 6 runs with five RBIs, one triple, and eight doubles. 

Samuel Gil is a 6’4 right-handed pitcher from the Bronx, and a junior at Mercy College and a transfer from St. Bonaventure University. This season, he has logged 14.1 innings on the mound. With a powerful frame and raw potential, he continues to develop his command and effectiveness at the collegiate level.

Travis Hammond is a 6’ outfielder from Stone Mountain, GA, and a graduate student at Saint Xavier University. A consistent presence in the lineup, Travis has started all 46 games this season. Over 138 at-bats, he’s batting .290 with 40 hits, 35 runs scored, seven doubles, three triples, and a home run.

Opening Day is Saturday May 31 at 6:30 p.m. vs the Elmira Pioneers with free post-game fireworks. If you are someone you know has interest in sponsoring the Muckdogs, season ticket information, hosting a group event or picnic please contact General Manager Marc Witt (mwitt.canusa@gmail.com). The Muckdogs full schedule is available online at www.canusamuckdogs.com.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

On Friday, May 9, the Pembroke Teachers' Federation hosted its third annual Sprinkles Night at Sprinkles Creamery in Corfu!

Members of the Pembroke Teachers' Federation took orders, scooped ice cream, created delicious sundaes, and made milkshakes all for a great cause. Sprinkles Creamery generously donated a portion of the night's sales and tips to the Scholarship Fund of the Pembroke Teachers' Federation.

"Our little community never ceases to amaze me," said Arron K. Brown, president of the PTF. "Amanda and the entire crew at Sprinkles are amazing, and I am so thankful for their partnership." 

At the end of a very busy night, $773 was raised to help graduating seniors at Pembroke High School.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Press Release:

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

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

The following is a list of those recognized:

Letters of Recognition 

• Sharon Nuwer - Cleaner for the Department 

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

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

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

Department Honor Guard members:   

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

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

Firearms Instructors:

• Sergeant Arick Perkins
• Officer Samuel Freeman 

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

Accreditation Manager:

• Officer Richard Messmer 

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

NET Officers:

• Officer John Gombos
• Officer Joseph Weglarski 

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

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

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

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

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

Life Saving Award 

• Officer Samuel Freeman
• Officer Bryan Moscicki 

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

Meritorious Service Award 

Detective Eric Hill 

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

Citizen Commendation Award 

Grace Baptist Church 

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

Officer of the Year 

Officer Andrew Mruczek 

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

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

Press Release:

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

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

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

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

Pres Release:

On Wednesday, May 14, beginning at 8:30 a.m., the Genesee County Jail’s main phone number, 585-343-0838, will be unable to receive incoming calls for approximately 30 minutes.
However, outgoing calls and in-house county extensions will not be affected. We appreciate your patience and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Press Release:

To all traffic utilizing the following roadways:

• Stegman Road – Miller Road to Powers Road
• Barrett Drive – Route 5 to END (Kistner Concrete)

Due to delays on other projects, Stegman Road and Barrett Drive are now scheduled for resurfacing on Tuesday, May 13, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Traffic should expect delays and short-term closures while resurfacing operations occur. EMERGENCY SERVICE PERMITTED THROUGH. All through traffic should seek alternative routes.

Residents and Businesses on the listed roads will be permitted access to their property, but may experience minor delays.

This work is weather dependent; if delayed for rain, the work will occur the next available day. 

If there are any questions concerning this work, please contact The Town of Batavia – Highway Department at  585-343-1729 Extension 218. Thank you for your cooperation in advance.

Press Release:

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has collected critical funds in the community since 1954 – one dollar at a time – as part of the Fill the Boot program for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). The Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 896 will continue this long-standing tradition as its members kick off the annual program, raising funds to support MDA’s vision to accelerate research, advance care, and advocate for the support of MDA families.

Dedicated firefighters from Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 896 will hit the streets with boots in hand, asking pedestrians, motorists, customers, and other passersby to donate to the MDA on June 6 from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Main and Court Street and Ellicott and Court Street in the City of Batavia.

The partnership between MDA and IAFF began in 1954, when the IAFF signed a proclamation designating MDA its charity of choice and vowing to continue raising awareness and funds until cures are found. To date, the nearly seven-decade partnership has raised more than $679 million, with involvement from over 300,000 firefighters nationwide. 

These funds have led in part to over a dozen FDA-approved drugs in as many years for those with neuromuscular disease. Those treatments were created from MDA’s vision to open a new field of medicine and push the boundaries of the medical frontier we call genetic medicine.

“What the IAFF has done for MDA over the past 68 years is unprecedented,” said Donald S. Wood, Ph.D., President and CEO of MDA. “With the support from our partners at the IAFF, MDA is doing the impossible in accelerating research, advancing care, and advocating for people living with neuromuscular disease. We have a mission to empower the people we serve to life longer, more independent lives and we will fulfill this mission together, with the IAFF.”

Press Release:

Spring has arrived, and with it comes Genesee County’s Farm Bureau’s annual event Kinderfarmin’! We are ecstatic to be able to bring this wonderful tradition to our kindergarten students and families! Kinderfarmin’ is being held on Wednesday, June 4, at Post Dairy Farms, LLC in Oakfield. This event, in one form or another, has been happening for over 40 years in Genesee County and has become a staple for classrooms.

Kinderfarmin’ has been recognized by the American Farm Bureau Federation as an “Event of Excellence”.

This day attracts over 600 kindergarten students from ten school districts. Including teachers, chaperones, and the hundred volunteers, the host farm will have over 1000 visitors in a single day. For this one day, this local dairy farm will continue to be a dairy and be transformed into a classroom with hands-on learning stations and guided tours.

Genesee County Farm Bureau partners with roughly 20 local businesses and organizations to provide a unique, fun and educational experience for all ages. We aim to highlight all the effort that goes into making our favorite dairy products like milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, and of course ice cream!

Our field trip is FREE for every student and would not be possible without the generosity of our many sponsors and local farmers. 

Press Release:

A bowling ball rolls down the wooden lane, striking into the pins and clattering them to the floor.

A whoop and a cheer are let out as the next bowler takes center stage; all this is possible thanks largely to a $5,000 grant from the M&T Charitable Foundation. The grant was awarded to enhance Arc GLOW’s recreation and respite programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Genesee, Livingston, and Wyoming counties. Thanks to this generous support, the people served by Arc GLOW are participating in a wide array of inclusive and enriching activities. From bowling nights and movie outings to dining experiences, museum and theater visits, and local festivals.

“Our goal is to create opportunities for joy, connection, and community involvement,” said Jill Pegelow, vice president of Self-Direction and Community Services at Arc GLOW. “M&T Bank’s support plays a huge part in helping us bring these experiences to life.” 

Arc GLOW has several events on tap in 2025, including the Self-Advocate All Stars Annual Talent Show fundraiser on April 26; Johnathan Doherty and Gladys Hopper Self-Advocacy Day on May 31; Arc Night at the Ballpark on June 12; Genesee County fair activities; nature walks at Swallow Hollow Trail; outdoor sports; and many other community activities.

“Arc GLOW’s recreation and respite programs provide meaningful experiences to individuals and their families. We appreciate the support of the M&T Charitable Foundation for making a difference,” Pegelow said.

Arc GLOW’s recreation and respite program provides temporary relief to families from the demands of caregiving, which can help reduce overall family stress. This allows families to better meet the needs of their loved ones with a developmental disability. Respite can be provided in or out of the home, during the day, evenings or nights.

To learn more about Arc GLOW and the recreation and respite program, visit ArcGLOW.org.