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Press Release:

The Batavia Muckdogs have officially released their 2025 promotional night schedule. This season the Muckdogs will have four fireworks shows- May 31, June 14, July 3, and 26, $1 Hotdog & $2 Beer Night return, various giveaways, and some new in-game promotions as well! 

This season, fireworks shows will be sponsored by Graham Corporation and Turnbull Heating & Air (Saturday, May 30), O-AT-KA Milk Products and Tompkins Bank (Saturday, June 14), Batavia Downs and Rochester Regional Health (Thursday, July 3), and HP Hood and Oak Orchard Health (Saturday, July 26). 

The Helicopter Candy Drop (sponsored by Pete Zeliff) will make a return on Saturday, June 7 vs Geneva. Bark in the Park (bring your dogs to the game!) and No Farms No Food Night (a night highlighting agriculture in our community presented by
Alleghany Farm Services) makes their return to Dwyer Stadium. 

The Muckdogs have also teamed up with local community leaders as well as this season will feature a YMCA Night (Genesee County), Military Appreciation Night (Presented by Geico – Local Batavia Office), Strike out Cancer Night (in partnership with Wilmot Cancer Institute), Stop DWI Night, and the regular season ends with a pet food drive on Saturday July 27 vs Jamestown. The full schedule is available at www.canusamuckdogs.com.

This season will also feature some new in game promotions as well. Making a return is the Tully’s hitman of the game as fans will earn a coupon to Tully’s if the player selected gets a hit. Dewey the dog will have a new “home” this season as Perry Veterinary Clinic sponsor the Muckdogs Mascot. Also, brand new this season if the Muckdogs win you win (a free hamburger) courtesy of the Burger King. For full list of fan experiences & promotions visit www.canusamuckdogs.com.

The Muckdogs opening weekend is set for Saturday May 31 at 6:30 p.m. vs the Elmira Pioneers with post-game fireworks and then back Sunday June 1 at 4:05 p.m. vs the Jamestown Tarp Skunks with meet the team night. Season tickets are on sale starting at just $99. 585-524-2260 or visit www.canusamuckdogs.com for special promotions, season tickets, or group information. See you at Dwyer Stadium this summer.

Press Release:

The 2025 Memorial Day schedule of ceremonies begins on Sunday, May 25, at 2 p.m. with a ceremony at the Western New York National Cemetery, located at 1254 Indian Falls Road in Corfu. 

Additional ceremonies will take place throughout Genesee County on Monday, May 26 are as follows:

7:00 a.m. - Genesee Co. Park – Vietnam Veterans Memorial (Sponsored by VVA #193)

8:00 a.m. - Williams Park W.W. I Memorial (wreath laying, rifle salute & Taps)

8:30 a.m. - Batavia VAMC

8:45 a.m. - NYS Veterans Home

9:30 a.m. - Harvester Avenue Plot (wreath laying, rifle salute & Taps)

10:00 a.m. - Upton Monument (wreath laying, rifle salute & Taps)

10:30 a.m. - UMMC – Jerome Center (Memorial Day ceremonies: Invocation; Nat’l Anthem w/Batavia Concert Band; G.A.R. Order of the Day; Veterans Service Organizations Commemorations; Wreath Laying w/ Gold Star Mothers; Honor Roll w/drum roll; Rifle Salute; Taps; Benediction; “God Bless America”)

11:30 a.m. - Glenn S. Loomis Grave - Elmwood Cemetery (Legion #332) 

12 p.m. - Hansen Bros. Grave – Grandview Cemetery (Legion #332)

Participating Organizations 

• Genesee County American Legion Posts
• Veness-Strollo Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1602
• Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter #193
• Sons of Union Veterans Abraham Lincoln Camp #6

The LeRoy American Legion Post 576 will be having a parade starting at the post at 10:30 on May 26, 2025. It will go down Main Street to Trigon Park (Old High School). There will be a ceremony with guest speaker Jim Ellison, Capt/USN/Ret, a laying of the wreath, and a ceremonial firing followed by taps that will begin at approximately 11:00.

Batavia Veterans of Foreign Wars – Post 1602
25 Edwards St., Batavia, NY 14020
Post 1602 members will also be placing flags at the Elmwood Cemetery on Friday, May 23, 2025.
On Memorial Day, the post opens at noon for veteran lunch.

The City of Batavia's Memorial Day Parade begins at 9:30 a.m.

Press Release:

The Richmond Memorial Library will welcome local author JG Benedict for an author visit on Saturday, May 17, at 11 a.m. in the Reading Room.

JG is a native of Batavia and the author of paranormal fiction. He will discuss his book The Nightroad (Anthology One), which was published in November 2024 by Media Hatchery. The Nightroad takes readers on a voyage through the paranormal.

JG will share a talk followed by a book signing. Copies of the book will be for sale in paperback ($20) or hardcover ($30). Payment can be accepted in cash or Venmo. Copies are also available to borrow through the library!

JG Benedict is a paranormal fiction author and general essayist. He is a native of Batavia and a current resident. JG graduated from Batavia High School before attending college at St. Bonaventure University and SUNY Potsdam. Over the past forty-some years, he has lived and traveled throughout the United States; he is something of a Renaissance Man when it comes to his experience and skill set.

More information can be found at jgbenedict.com. For more about the Richmond Memorial Library and other programs, visit batavialibrary.org. RML is located at 19 Ross St in the City of Batavia.

Press Release:

Congratulations to the First Communicants from Resurrection Parish and Ascension Parish, who joyfully received their First Holy Communion during the 10 a.m. Mass on May 4 at St. Joseph’s Church.

Press release:

The Lady Irish defeated the Elba Lancers Friday night, 11-10. 

The Irish took a 7-0 lead into the 5th inning. The Lancers closed the gap with one run in the 5th and then proceeded to go on a scoring run in the 6th, flipping the advantage to a 10-7 lead over the Irish. 

Notre Dame battled back in the bottom of the 6th with a single by Amelia Sorochty and a double by Sofia Falleti, driving in the two runs needed to even the score out to 10-10 going into the 7th. 

Falleti turned a double play and then had a diving catch to seal all three outs in the top of the 7th. 

Amelia Sorochty scored the winning run in the 7th for the Irish and led the team, going 4-5 at the plate.

Mia Treleaven was the winning pitcher, giving up 11 hits and 10 runs (4 earned) while striking out 10. Bri Totten and Brea Smith led the Lancers, collecting two hits each. Smith took the loss, striking out eight and walking none. 

Photos by Kristin Smith

Press Release:

“This year’s budget was a missed opportunity -- a chance to confront New York’s affordability crisis, restore public safety, and rebuild public trust. Instead, Albany delivered more of the same.

At $254 billion, this is the largest and one of the most irresponsible budgets in state history. While families struggle with rising costs and small businesses fight to survive, this plan adds to the burden. Modest wins like a small tax cut and one-time ‘inflation refunds’ will be quickly offset by the long-term damage of the runaway spending. You can’t fix affordability by growing government at such a scale.

The failures extend beyond the bottom line. The Governor promised meaningful discovery reform to fix the flood of criminal case dismissals under the 2019 law and the resulting harm caused to public safety. Instead, we got a watered-down tweak that won’t make a real difference. Her proposed mask ban, meant to deter masked agitators and criminals and aid law enforcement, was similarly gutted. The kind of lawless takeover we saw this week at Columbia University will happen again and again. Once again, public safety took a back seat to political appeasement.

There are a few bright spots. The budget finally expands involuntary commitment standards and strengthens Kendra’s Law—provisions similar to legislation I’ve championed for years. These changes are overdue and may save lives. It also pays off the state’s $7 billion unemployment insurance debt, offering long-awaited relief for small businesses. But let’s not forget: those same businesses have spent the past five years unfairly footing the bill while Albany failed to act.

Any goodwill is undermined by one of the most outrageous provisions in the budget: $10 million in taxpayer funds set aside to cover the private legal fees for state officials, including Attorney General Letitia James, if she faces federal prosecution for mortgage fraud. The actions being investigated involve a personal financial transaction and have nothing to do with her role as Attorney General.  She should pay for her own defense. Taxpayers should never be forced to bankroll the personal legal troubles of political elites.

This budget is a monument to mismanagement—a missed opportunity to deliver real reform, real relief, and real results. Every year, Albany excuses a late budget by promising it will be ‘worth the wait.’ This year, once again, it wasn’t.”

Press Release:

The Batavia Police Department and National Grid want to warn you about a potential scam in our community. There have been reports of individuals going door-to-door, claiming to represent National Grid, but they are not affiliated with the company.

These individuals may be trying to sell services or collect personal information from residents. It's essential to remember that National Grid does not engage in door-to-door solicitation. 

If someone comes to your door claiming to represent National Grid, be cautious and take the following steps to protect yourself: 

• Verify identity: Ask to see photo identification. National Grid and licensed Energy Service Company representatives must carry visible ID with a logo.
• Protect your information: Never provide your utility account number or a copy of your utility bill unless you are sure you want to consider an offer.
• Be cautious of agreements: Do not sign anything until you understand the agreement terms, rate structures, billing practices, customer service policies, and cancellation procedures.
• Be aware of red flags: National Grid will never ask for your account number during a home visit or unsolicited call.
• Stay safe: If you feel unsafe or suspect fraudulent activity, lock your doors and call 911 immediately. 

If you're unsure about the identity of a National Grid employee, you can always confirm by calling 1-800-642-4272. We appreciate your partnership in helping us protect our community members from misleading or fraudulent activity. 

Any other legitimate solicitor must register with the City of Batavia Clerk's office and will be issued paperwork, feel free to ask for this documentation. 

Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Stay vigilant, and let's work together to prevent scams in our community.

If you have any questions or need further support, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Batavia Police Department or National Grid.

Press release:

The Trojan offense piled up 10 hits and eight walks during Thursday’s chilly matchup against Byron-Bergen. 

Faith Goodenbury led the Trojans at the plate, going 3-for-4 with a double, 2 RBIs, and two runs scored.  

Melissa Sawyer added in the box going 2-for-3 with 3 RBIs, 2 runs, a walk and a stolen base.  Ava Yax finished the day going 1-for-1 with a double, 2 walks, 3 runs, an RBI, and a stolen base.  Morgan Boyce went 1-for-3, driving in three runs with a run scored and a walk.  Lilly Szymkowiak went 1-for-2 with a double, 2 runs, a walk and a stolen base. Emily Pietrzykowski and Melanie each added a hit apiece to round out the Alexander offensive attack. Bump's hit was a 2-RBI double.  

Emily Pietrzykowski controlled the circle as the senior struck out 11 batters, limiting the Byron-Bergen offense. Pietrzykowski only allowed two hits and two runs (1 earned) over five innings while walking five.

Next up for Alexander is a doubleheader at Holley on Friday starting at 3:45pm.

Coach’s Comments:
"This was a solid win for us as we work to build momentum, picking up our second straight," said Coach John Goodenbury. "It's great to see our bats coming alive more each day. One of the best feelings as a coach is watching good hitters break out of slumps. We've had players making solid contact lately, just hitting it right at fielders. Today, we found the gaps and gained some confidence. We're ready for a packed final stretch and prepared to finish strong."

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) commented on the annual Police Memorial in Albany to honor the officers across the state who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their communities last year. The event was attended by lawmakers in both the state Assembly and Senate, as well as Gov. Kathy Hochul. 

Hawley, who has been a staunch supporter of law enforcement, was grateful this event took place for another year and is proud of the hard work and dedication our law enforcement officers put in every day to keep our communities safe.

“Every day, law enforcement officers across our state leave their families and put on their uniforms, not knowing if they will make it home at the end of the day. These are husbands, wives, parents and siblings who put their lives on the line to keep us safe. My heart breaks for families like that of Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello, who lost their loved one in the line of duty. We are eternally grateful for their service, and we will never forget their sacrifice,” said Hawley.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School Principal Paul Hazard is proud to announce the third quarter Honor Roll and High Honor Roll students. Hazard and the Byron-Bergen Central School District staff offer their congratulations to these students.

2024-2025 QUARTER 3 HONOR ROLL 

GRADE 7:

HIGH HONOR ROLL – Jayda Amesbury, Ian Bannister, Teagan Burch, Lillian Czachorowski, McKenna Diehl, Leonard Dykstra, Katelyn Gay, Nina Hammerl, Aaliyah Hawley, Hannah Hunt, Lacie Ivison, Jason Ivison, Jr., Grant Kuipers, Anastasia Kuszlyk, Ella Maher, Liam McAlister, Amelia Meier, Elizabeth Merrick, Lawrence Moore III, Christian Perkins, Jaelynn Reynolds, Dylan Riedmiller, Collin Starowitz, Devin Stranc-Holmwood, Emma Tanner, Kylee Tirrell, Payton White 

HONOR ROLL - Addison Alejandro, Amelia Baker, Diamond Dykstra-Culver, Claire Fogg, Harlow Galves, Brooklyn Louis, Gabriel Peebles, Hanna Richardson, Lincoln Senf, Jackson Senf, Monica Tobin, Brynn Weaver

GRADE 8: 

HIGH HONOR ROLL - Faith Apley, Charlotte Bloom, Riley Boland, Evelyn Borycki, Madison Carson, Alyssa Chupp, Emily Cubas Canizales, Addyson Day, June Dorman, Olivia Galdun, Hunter Jarosinski, Isabella Kessler, Sophia Matthews, Lia Ray, Miranda Stanton, Contessa Vander Wyst, Benjamin Vargas, Kaylanah White, Dahlia Wolff

HONOR ROLL - Ayden Day, Katherine Erion, Cruz Gilbert, Ce'Andre Johnson, Delilah Malin, Emmarose Michaels, Jack Miller, Riley Norman, Trevor O'Brien, Caleb Rassel, William Scharvogel, Landon Starkweather, Gunner Starowitz, Aiden Thurston, Sierra Vandenbosch, Teagan Williams 

GRADE 9:

HIGH HONOR ROLL - Evan Bannister, Eala Coniglio, Samantha Copani, Emily Diehl, William Duell, Zachary Gay, Cambria Goodenbery, Lila Graff, Ruth Kuipers, Alexander Kuszlyk, Isabella Lewis, Levi McGrath, Timothy Michaels Jr., Liliana Moore, Evan Phillips, Alexandra Pocock, Natalie Randall, Lucy Rea, Jenna Redick, Michael Rogoyski, Genevieve Smith, Xavier Vargas, Jillian Weaver, Paige Winkler 

HONOR ROLL - Mason Farner, Ainsley Kent, Taylor Louis, Lillian Meier, Laney Niedzwiecki, Brook Pagels, Audrey Rimmerman, Lila Sharp-Robinson, Madeline Smith, Miley Stalica 

GRADE 10:

HIGH HONOR ROLL - Nataly Barrera Zuniga, Rylee Burch, Emalyn Canfield, Cody Carlson, Lauren Gartz, Gavin Kinkelaar, Taylor Lundfelt, Ian MacMillen, Logan Marou, Emma Matthews, Hannah Riedmiller, Theodore Schelemanow, Elliana Tanner, Rena Wilson 

HONOR ROLL - Joseph Brumsted, Gianna Cicatelli, Brayden Gelsomino, Isabella Gifford, Kai Gilbert, Wyatt Lewis, Seth Prefontaine, Brandon Schuck, Kyle Smith, Paul Szalay III, Bradley Tatar, Kylee Thurston, Jack Walker

GRADE 11: 

HIGH HONOR ROLL - Katelyn Ball, Liam Boyle, Adam Cardenas, Gianna Clark, Connor Copani, Justin Deleo, Gary Donofrio, Gianna Graff, Megan Jarkiewicz, Pearl Jolliff, Carter Kuipers, Malacai McGrath, Maryn Meier, Grace Mundell, Paige O'Brien, Evan Orto, Bradley Pocock, Katherine Rogoyski, Julia Sanso Maya, Simone Scharvogel, Rayne Sheard, Hayden Starkweather, Elizabeth Starowitz, Aubrey Stein, Emma Wolfe 

HONOR ROLL - Sara Bishop, Addison Cummings, Grace DiQuattro, Estelle Dumuhosky, Ava Goff, Mia Gray, Nial Johnson, Giovanny Navarro Cruz, Colin Rea, Allison Rimmerman, Solomon Smith, Andre'a White, Evan Williams

GRADE 12: 

HIGH HONOR ROLL - Ryan Benstead, Sarah Campbell, Deborah Catalino, Kendall Chase, Noah Clare, Abigail Cook, Laura Curts, Isabella Davidson, Lea Donofrio, Annabelle Erion, Haylee Gartz, Peyton Goodenbery, Ava Gray, Rachel Hanel, Eli Kupfer, Ella Lewis, Draven Liles, Jackson Lundfelt, Martin MacConnell, Anna McLaughlin, Meghan Muscarella, Kasey Pagels, Ian Pulcini, Sydney Salmonds, Ashley Schlenker-Stephens, Olivia Senf, Roman Smith, Lily Stalica, James Starowitz, Ruger Starowitz, Rose Wilson, Hannah Wittman, Jade Wolff, Mikayla Yohon

HONOR ROLL - Jake Carlson, Craig DiQuattro, Jack Farner, Logan Fregoe, Landon Kent, Connor Moran, Adam Piper, Natalie Prinzi, Rayden Robinson, Jeremiah Romero, Victoria Santiago, Trent Sheard

Press Release:

As students, you have a lot on your plate - from classes to extracurricular activities, social events, and more. But amidst all the excitement, it's essential to remember one crucial thing: your safety. And that's where we come in. 

The Batavia Police Department is committed to ensuring your safety, especially when it comes to one of the most critical issues affecting young people today: drunk driving. As a student, you have a responsibility not only to yourself but also to your friends, family, and community to make smart choices. 

Here are some sobering facts: 

• Drunk driving is a leading cause of accidents and fatalities among young people.
• Even one drink can impair your judgment and reaction time, putting you and others at risk.
• Drunk driving is a crime that can result in serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. 

So, what can you do to stay safe and responsible? 

• Plan ahead: If you're going to drink, designate a sober driver or use a ride-sharing service.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the night to avoid dehydration.
• Look out for each other: If you see a friend who's had too much to drink, encourage them to call a ride or stay overnight.
• Make smart choices: Avoid getting into a car with someone who's been drinking. 

Remember, your safety is our top priority. By making responsible choices, you can help prevent drunk driving accidents and ensure a safe and enjoyable night out with friends. 

Stay safe, stay sober, and let's work together to create a safer community for everyone! Stay informed, stay safe, and let's make a difference.

Press Release:

To All Traffic Utilizing the Following Roadways:

• Stegman Road – Miller Road to Powers Road
• Barrett Road – Route 5 to END (Kistner Concrete)
• Access Road to Town Hall and Genesee County Bldg. 2 – From the turn off to the Animal Shelter to END (at Town Hall) and access to the Highway garage

Resurfacing operations will occur on the listed roads on Monday, May 12, 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 they may experience minor delays.

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

If you have any questions about this work, please contact the Town of Batavia's Highway Department at 585-343-1729 Extension 218.

Thank you for your cooperation in advance.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) is accepting registrations for this year’s Patriot Trip to Washington, D.C. The trip will run from September 18 to 21 and is open to local veterans and their families and friends. Participants will get a tour of the nation’s capital and its numerous monuments and landmarks that honor those who served. 

This year’s trip will feature stops at several notable locations in the D.C. area, including the WWII, Korean and Vietnam War memorials and Arlington National Cemetery. There will also be the potential for a White House visit on the trip. Those who are interested in the potential tour will need to register no later than June 10 to secure a background check.

“This trip is an excellent opportunity to honor not only our local veterans but also those who served before them,” said Hawley. “I am incredibly excited to host this event for another year. We owe our veterans a deep level of gratitude for all they have sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy in this country, so being able to take them to our nation’s capital to see these historic landmarks is truly an honor.”

Due to the many generous donations from the community, local businesses and organizations, we are expecting the cost to be $450-$500 per person with everything included. A noncommittal registration is required by June 10 for those interested in a potential White House tour for the purpose of a background check. To register, contact Hawley’s office at 585-589-5780 or email hawleys@nyassembly.gov for more details.

For those who wish to donate to support this event, please make your donation out to Patriot Trip and send it to PO Box 171, Albion.

Press Release:

The Leadership Development Programs at United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes are now accepting applications for the 2025 class year. These programs include the Latino Leadership Development Program, African American Leadership Development Program, Emerging Leaders Development Program, and the PRIDE Leadership Development Program. The application deadline is May 31.

United Way’s Leadership Development Programs empower individuals to become impactful leaders who drive positive change in their communities. Participants engage in transformative experiences that enhance their professional capabilities, foster meaningful connections, and develop the confidence to lead teams, influence policy, and contribute to community success. Graduates will be able to drive innovation, inspire collaboration, and make lasting contributions to local organizations and communities. 

“For over 30 years, our Leadership Development Programs have empowered leaders through intentional skill-building, real-world application, and community-driven impact,” said LaCerius Cross, Manager Leadership Development Academy at United Way. “These programs are designed to prepare individuals to lead with confidence, purpose, and lasting influence.”

The Leadership Development Programs are just one of a suite of leadership training offerings offered by United Way’s Leadership Development Academy. Other Leadership Development Academy programming and partnerships, such as the Union Community Assistance Network and Development of Indo-American Leaders Program, provide additional ways for leaders to make a real-world impact on our communities.

For more information, or to apply to United Way’s Leadership Development Programs, visit unitedwayrocflx.org/get-involved/leadership-development. Contact leadership@unitedwayrocflx.org with any questions.

Press Release:

On April 29, Byron-Bergen senior James “JC” Starowitz committed to continuing his formal education after graduation at Alfred State as a member of the wrestling program. The official signing was witnessed by Byron-Bergen Athletic Director Rich Hannan, JV Wrestling Coach Josh Brabon, coaching staff member Brian Tatar, and Starowitz’s parents and siblings.

“It has been an absolute pleasure coaching JC over the years,” said Hannan. “I have had very few athletes join in seventh grade and wrestle varsity for six years. He loves the sport, and it shows through his hard work and dedication. I will always remember JC for being hard working, talented, and dedicated, but most importantly for his impact on his team. He is a great leader on and off the mat. JC is a great wrestler and even better person. He will be a great addition to the Alfred team, and I am so proud that he has decided to take his talents to the next level and wrestle in college. We wish him nothing but the best in the next step of his journey!” 

While on the wrestling team, Starowitz earned over 100 career wins and was named an All-Star four times. In addition to wrestling, Starowitz participated in varsity football, track, and golf. He is also Senior Class Vice-President. Outside of school, he volunteers with the Bergen Fire Department.

Starowitz plans to major in Agribusiness Management. In this next step in his academic career, he would like to thank his coaches and family for all their support throughout his athletic career. 

Press Release:

Due to a printing error, the 2025-2026 City/County tax payments cannot be processed at the Binghamton address listed on the tax bill.

If paying by mail, please mail your tax payments to:

City Clerk’s Office
One Batavia City Centre
Batavia, NY, 14020

Payments can also be put in the Drop Box located on the outside of City Hall or can be made in-person in the City Clerk’s Office.

If you have already sent your bill to Binghamton, it is fine as they will forward all payments on to us for processing.

We apologize for any inconvenience.