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Press Release:

The Byron-Bergen Bees made history on Saturday by capturing the title in the first-ever Byron-Bergen Spring Softball Classic, held on their home field. In a high-scoring championship game, the Bees defeated the Perry Yellow Jackets by a final score of 20–13 to become the tournament’s inaugural champions.

The victory capped off a dominant day for Byron-Bergen, who opened the tournament with a statement win—27–7 over Red Jacket—in the semifinal round. Perry reached the final with a more defensive 4–1 win over Barker, setting up an exciting championship matchup.

In the third-place game, Barker rebounded from its semifinal loss to defeat Red Jacket, 18–1.

The Bees came out swinging in the championship game, exploding for 10 runs in the first inning and never looking back. Byron-Bergen’s offense was relentless throughout the day, combining patience at the plate, aggressive baserunning, and clutch hitting to pile on runs early and often.

Several players shined offensively for Byron-Bergen during the tournament:

Natalie Prinzi was electric at the plate, going 7-for-8 across both games. Her performance included two doubles, a triple, five RBIs, two walks, and six stolen bases.

Janessa Amesbury showcased her speed and plate discipline, finishing 4-for-6 with four RBIs, four walks, and nine stolen bases.

Lily Stalica, who also pitched both games, contributed a strong day at the plate as well, going 3-for-6 with six RBIs, four walks, and two stolen bases.

Lauren Gartz continued the offensive barrage, batting 4-for-8 with a double, eight RBIs, three walks, and five steals.

Ella Lewis added to the Bees’ run production, collecting three hits in six at-bats, including a double and four RBIs.

On the mound, Lily Stalica took the ball for both games and was credited with both wins. She pitched through heavy offensive matchups, striking out four batters, walking six, and giving up 12 earned runs across two games. Her ability to hold opponents in check and bounce back from occasional defensive errors helped preserve Byron-Bergen’s momentum throughout the tournament.

For her all-around performance, Stalica was named the Tournament MVP.

Following the final out, head coach Steve Ball was full of praise for his team’s effort and perseverance:

“I can’t say how proud I am of these girls,” Ball said. “We had a tough game earlier this week against Oakfield, and it would’ve been easy to let that shake our confidence. But they came to practice, worked hard, and the results showed today. This was a full team effort—from offense, to defense, to support on the bench. To come out on top in the first year of our tournament, on our home field, in front of our fans—it’s just really special,” Ball added. “This is something these girls will always remember.”

Coach Ball also complimented the Perry Yellow Jackets for their sportsmanship and effort:

“That Perry team is well-coached and talented. We knew it wasn’t going to be easy, even with the big lead. They fought hard and made us earn it.”

Despite weather challenges earlier in the week, the tournament went off smoothly thanks to significant behind-the-scenes efforts. Ball credited the school’s maintenance staff and athletic department for preparing the fields and keeping the schedule on track.

“Big shoutout to the maintenance crew. The weather definitely didn’t make things easy this week, but they worked hard to get the fields ready. I have to thank Robbie Nichols and the Batavia Muckdogs for letting us take their field old tarp, without that tarp this tournament wouldn't have happened today. Also, a thank-you to the coaches and players from Perry, Barker, and Red Jacket for traveling and participating. It means a lot to make this kind of event possible."

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) announces plans to conduct up to seven (7) prescribed burns on the Refuge during the 2025 season. The goal this year is to burn up to 175 acres of grasslands. The result will be enhanced grassland nesting cover for a variety of migratory birds and other wildlife. Grassland fields will be burned in the spring or summer (April – August). Each burn should take approximately two to six hours to complete.

Prescribed burns are conducted safely and successfully on National Wildlife Refuges and other public lands aross the country. With prescribed burns, fire becomes a management tool removing accumulated fuel loads thus reducing the risk of wildfire. 

Additionally, fire improves Refuge habitats for wildlife by removing invading plants that compete for light and nutrients and exposing the soil to sunlight so that seeds may germinate and grow. At the same time, it releases nitrogen and other nutrients into the soil to nourish the new plants. 

Specific dates cannot be announced in advance due to specific weather requirements, however, law enforcement and other emergency agencies will be notified on the day of the burn. Before a burn can take place, specific weather and site conditions, including wind direction and speed, humidity, air temperature, and fuel moisture must be present. If any one of these conditions is outside of set parameters, the burn will not take place. Refuge staff have been specially trained to plan, ignite and monitor the fire to ensure public safety. 

For further information contact Wildlife Biologist, Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, 1101 Casey Road, Basom or call 585-948-5445 ext.7032.

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

Press Release:

The Le Roy Police Department is proud to announce the launch of a new Therapy Dog Program. It is welcoming its newest and furriest member, Kronk, a professionally trained therapy dog who will work alongside Officer Krysta Tomaszewski, the department's School Resource Officer, at the Le Roy Jr/Sr High School Campus. 

Kronk and Officer Tomaszewski recently completed specialized training through the Brevard County Sheriff's Office Paws & Stripes College, a nationally recognized program known for its work in pairing therapy dogs with law enforcement officers to support mental health, foster positive relationships, and enhance public safety outreach. 

Chief Gregory Kellogg, who has championed the development of this initiative, emphasized the collaborative effort behind the program. 

Kellogg said, "This has truly been a community effort from the support of our Village Board to the commitment of the Le Roy Central School District. Kronk isn't just here for the students's here for the entire community. We're incredibly proud to bring a program like this to Le Roy." 

The Therapy Dog Program is designed to provide emotional support and comfort in a variety of settings, both in the schools and throughout the broader Le Roy community. Whether helping a student through a difficult day, comforting a victim during a crisis, or connecting with residents at community events, Kronk is trained to be a calming and supportive presence. 

Superintendent Meritt Holly echoed the department's enthusiasm, "The partnership with the Le Roy Police Department continues to grow in meaningful ways. Bringing Kronk into our schools will help us support students' mental health and build trust and positive relationships between young people and law enforcement." 

Program Highlights and Benefits: 

• Provides emotional support to students and community members experiencing stress or trauma.
• Enhances community policing efforts by building positive, approachable connections between officers and residents.
• The mission of the Le Roy Central School District is to provide an exceptional, high quality educational environment where all learners are empowered to succeed.
• Supports mental wellness initiatives at Le Roy CSD and other local institutions.
• Offers comfort and reassurance during times of crisis, both in schools and throughout the Village.  
• Creates additional opportunities for outreach at community events, senior centers, and more. 

Kronk will start his first day on the job on Monday, April 7, and become a regular and beloved presence at Le Roy CSD and will also be available for community visits and events coordinated through the Le Roy Police Department. 

For more information about the Therapy Dog Program, or to request a visit from Kronk, please contact the Le Roy Police Department. 
 

Press Release:

The Jerome Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment of the Martha M. Spinnegan Memorial Nursing Scholarship. The award is given in memory of the late Martha M. Spinnegan, who was a Foundation Trustee for over 30 years and served as the Foundation’s administrator for 15 years. 

Martha contributed greatly to the quality of life in Genesee County, serving as Director of the Richmond Memorial Library for 34 years. She was active in community organizations such as the Rotary Club of Batavia, Go Art, and the Children’s Home Board.

The nursing scholarship is an annual $1000 grant for four years, for a total of $4000, given to a deserving Senior graduating from a Genesee County School who intends to pursue a career in Nursing.

The Jerome Foundation also sponsors the William F. Brown Jr. Scholarship, which is given to a deserving Senior graduating from a Genesee County School who intends to pursue a career in journalism, communication, public relations or marketing. 

Applications for these scholarships have been sent to area High School Counselors or can be found at thejeromefoundation.org. Applications are due Friday, May 9, and can be mailed to The Jerome Foundation, PO Box 249, Batavia. If further information is needed, contact Chris Fix at thejeromefoundation@gmail.com.

Press Release:

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

Batavia will welcome back two returners, two western New Yorkers, & a new face this summer. 2024 Returners RHP – Garret Beaver and C/OF -Cooper Romich, Batavia Native, RHP – Jaden Sherwood, North Tonawanda Native, LHP – Jake Szlis & RHP -Cole Taylor join the Dogs this summer at Dwyer Stadium. 

Garrett Beaver returns to the Muckdogs for his third season, bringing veteran leadership and a dominant presence on the mound. The 6’3 right-handed pitcher from Waynesboro PA, is currently a junior at Salisbury University. Over the past two summers with Batavia, Beaver posted an outstanding 1.075 ERA. During the 2024 season with the Sea Gulls, he earned All-C2C Honorable mention, finishing 3rd in saves, and ranking 10 th in both strikeouts and wins. 

Cooper Romich returns for his second season with the Muckdogs after a strong summer showing in 2024. A versatile catcher and outfielder, the 5’10 sophomore from North Chili, is currently playing at Le Moyne. Last summer, Romich appeared in 40 games with Batavia, posting a solid .276 batting average and driving in 34 runs.

Jaden Sherwood is a 6’0 right-handed pitcher from Monroe Community College. A native of Batavia, Sherwood comes home for his first season with the Muckdogs this summer. Sherwood has struck out 15 batters in 14 innings this season with the Monroe Tribunes, showcasing his excellent abilities. 

Jake Szlis is a 6’5 left-handed pitcher from Alfred State University. From North Tonawanda, Szlis was dominant for the North Tonawanda High School Lumberjacks, pitching to a minuscule 1.04 ERA over 67.1 innings, striking out 99 batters.

Cole Taylor is a 5’11 freshman right-handed pitcher from Spring Hill, TN. A student at Columbia State Community College, Taylor is yet to allow a run this season. He recorded his first career collegiate hit and RBI on February 25.

Opening Day is Saturday, May 31 at 6:30 p.m. vs the Elmira Pioneers with free post-game fireworks. If you know someone who has an 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:

Tops Friendly Markets has promoted Stanley Alexander to the position of Grocery General Manager. He previously held the title of Grocery Supervisor, a role he held for four and a half years.

In his new role, Stanley will be responsible for all grocery department functions, including shipping, receiving, auditing, safety, sanitation and KPI metrics. He joined Tops in 2020 as a Grocery Supervisor.

Stanley resides in Batavia with his wife Katie and their five children.

Press Release:

Byron-Bergen second-grade students were invited to participate in the Arbor Day poster design contest in partnership with Genesee County Soil & Water Conservation. The purpose of the contest is to highlight the importance of trees and for students to gain an understanding of the effect trees have on the environment. This year's theme, "Trees are Superheroes", inspired participation from second-grade students throughout Genesee County. 

The contest winner was Byron-Bergen student Malia Hillabush. The winning poster was announced on April 24 by special guests Laura Bestehorn and Jared Elliott from Genesee County Soil & Water Conservation. Malia was very happy to have her creative poster chosen.

"Arbor Day is a special day to reflect on trees and all they do for us and our environment. They truly are real-life superheroes." said Elementary Math Intervention Specialist Lara Ezard. 

Malia’s poster will be on display at the Genesee County Fair and will be highlighted in the GCSWC newsletter. All Byron-Bergen posters entries are displayed at the Elementary's front foyer to show all the elementary students about trees’ superpowers. Each Byron-Bergen second-grade student who entered the poster contest received a sapling to plant at home.

Press Release:

Beginning in October of this 24/25 school year, St. Paul Lutheran School, has had the privilege of partnering with Genesee Community College (GCC) Physical Education Department. G.C.C. students have worked with the St. Paul students to provide instruction for the Kindergarten through 6th Grades. 

The freshman and sophomore students, under the direction of the Director/Professor of the Health and Physical Education Department, Rebecca Dzieken, and Krystal Forsyth, Instructor, Health and Physical Education Department, have planned the curriculum for the year. 

Throughout the year they led classes in soccer, basketball, team building games, volleyball and exercise
fundamentals. On Friday, May 2 they planned to lead the St. Paul students through the experience of a Field Day. The G.C.C. students had planned six different stations that will challenge the St. Paul students. 

The G.C.C. students include Evan Frier, Cayden Lilleby, Cody Costello, Aaron Birkby, Ryan Winters, Saunders Mireault and Michael Hayes. The G.C.C. Physical Education class have done an amazing job interacting with the St. Paul students.

Submitted photos.

Press release:

Veteran Buffalo sportscaster Paul Peck, a familiar face to the bowling community through his commentator role on the Beat the Champ television show, will be the guest speaker at the Genesee Region USBC Annual Banquet on May 10 at Batavia Downs Gaming.

The buffet dinner gets underway at 6 p.m. at the Genesee Banquet Room on the second floor of the Park Road facility.

Strikes and Spares. Touchdowns and Sacks. Slam Dunks and Three Pointers. They’ve all been a part of Peck’s 36 years in front of the camera.

For the last 25 years, he’s called University at Buffalo football and basketball on radio and TV as the “Voice of the Bulls.” In 2024, he reached a significant milestone, calling his 300th UB football game on the Bulls Radio Network.

Last fall, Peck joined Buffalo Bowling Hall of Famer Sue Nawojski in the revival of the long-running Beat the Champ bowling competition show. The show just finished recording its debut season on the MSG Network, with a second season coming in the fall of 2025.

For this past Buffalo Bills season, Peck was a part of ESPN Radio’s national coverage as sideline reporter for the broadcasts from Highmark Stadium.

He previously served as sports anchor, reporter, and producer at WIVB-TV (CBS) for 24 years. In that role, he covered all four Buffalo Bills Super Bowls, the Buffalo Sabres in the Stanley Cup Finals, the NCAA Basketball Tournament and the Daytona 500.

For 10 years, he served as the radio sideline reporter and host for the Buffalo Bills Football Network. Peck also has been the Master of Ceremonies for the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame, one of the largest sports banquets in Western New York.

The GRUSBC previously announced that Scott Culp of Honeoye Falls and Darwin “Auggie” Dale of Piffard will be inducted into the association’s Hall of Fame.

Tickets for the dinner are $40 per person. Reservations close on Saturday (May 3). To purchase a ticket, email mikep@bowlgr.com or calling 585-861-0404. For more information, go to www.bowlgr.com.

Press release:

For the safety of all players, the 2025 Rotary tournament is canceled for this weekend. There will not be another weekend scheduled this season.

Press release:

Batavia topped Spencerport on Friday night, which was senior night, 24-6.  

Senior quarterback Jaimin Macdonald had a big night with 95 yards and two touchdowns on 8 of 16 passing.  Macdonald connected with senior wide receiver Alyssa Turner for touchdowns of 16 and 17 yards in the second half.  Macdonald also rushed for 36 yards and a score on six carries.  Turner finished the night with five receptions for 64 yards.  

Senior running back Kylee Brennan led the team in rushing with 44 yards and a TD on five carries, while sophomore receiver Leilah Manuel chipped in 4 catches for 31 yards.

The Batavia defense kept the pressure on all night, forcing three turnovers and keeping Spencerport off the scoreboard until the game's final two minutes. 

Alyssa Turner returned an interception deep into Spencerport territory to set up Batavia's first TD.  Kylee Brennan led the team with 10 flag pulls (2 for loss) and an interception off a tipped ball by Jaimin Macdonald.  Macdonald registered eight flag pulls (2 for loss) and an interception of her own.  Leilah Manuel secured five flag pulls, and senior Nicole Doeringer added 4.  

Batavia moves to 4-3 with the win and will face Gates-Chili on the road on Monday.

Photos by Mike Ognibene.

Press Release:

Batavia High Class of 2010 graduate and past parishioner of Sacred Heart/Ascension, Father Aaron Kulzcyk, joined our final Resurrection and Ascension Family Faith Formation Session to discuss how God calls us all to use our gifts and talents.

Submitted photos.

Press Release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) celebrated the work of its economic development partners and the impact generated by the Apple Tree Acres business park with over 240 stakeholders gathered Friday.

The work of the town and village of Bergen, the commitments by homegrown businesses, and the support of New York State were recognized at the GCEDC’s annual meeting for generating a hub for economic development at Apple Tree Acres.

The 185-acre site is the latest, and largest, Genesee County shovel-ready site to be fully developed and sold to private companies. Current companies at Apple Tree Acres employ over 400 professionals with a cumulative payroll estimated at $30 million and contribute over $343,000 in annual property taxes and PILOT revenue.

“I’m pleased today to offer Apple Tree Acres as a case study for how economic development is making a positive impact in Genesee County,” GCEDC President & CEO Mark Masse told guests at the GCEDC’s annual meeting. “The economic impacts of Apple Tree Acres to the town, village and county cannot be underestimated. Not only have companies invested over $100 million in Bergen, they have also generated a significant value to municipal services.”

In recognition of the success of Apple Tree Acres, the town and village of Bergen were both recognized as the GCEDC’s Economic Development Partners of the Year. Town of Bergen Supervisor Ernest Haywood and Village Mayor Joseph Chimino accepted the awards.

During the annual meeting, the GCEDC also presented a video featuring testimonials from businesses at the Apple Tree Acres. Tenants reflected on the support provided by the GCEDC and their success in Bergen.

“We were pleased to showcase the businesses that have contributed to our goal of rebuilding the manufacturing and skilled trades sectors that have created more and better jobs for our residents,” said Masse.

In 2024, projects supported by the GCEDC pledged the creation and retention of over 600 careers. These projects spread across Genesee County’s business parks and other sites are estimated to produce an economic impact of $202 million. These include new municipal revenues and salaries for careers generated by over $1 billion of investment.

“When a community can work together to develop solutions, the rewards can be transformational and have generational impacts,” Masse said.

Press Release:

The 25th Annual Batavia Rotary Club High School Baseball Tournament will take place Saturday, May 3 at Dwyer Stadium with a rain date of Sunday, May 4.

Oakfield-Alabama and Notre Dame will play in the first game at 11 a.m. followed by Le Roy vs Batavia at 1 p.m. The Consolation Game will be at 4 p.m. with the Championship Game at 7 p.m. 

An All-Day Admission Pass is $5 for an adult and $3 for a student or senior. Cash or Venmo will be accepted for payment. All proceeds from the tournament will help benefit Batavia Rotary Club charities.

Youth ages 12 and under will get in free if they wear their baseball or softball uniforms to any of the games and attend with a parent/adult family member.

Any Challenger Sports athletes and Unified Sports athletes will get in free if they wear their uniform or t-shirt and come with a parent/adult family member or adult caregiver. 

We look forward to seeing the community come out to cheer on our local athletes!

Press Release:

The Batavia Social Security office located at 571 East Main Street, Batavia, NY, will remain open on Thursday, May 1, and Friday, May 2. The office was scheduled to be closed temporarily for these two days due to space renovations. The renovations have been temporarily delayed due to a facility issue.   

You may continue to call the Batavia Social Security office at 1-866-931-7103.  Social Security office hours are from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.    

Social Security’s customers can now make appointments for all types of services instead of waiting in line, resulting in a better overall experience and reductions in wait times. 

Customers can still wait in line if they cannot or do not want to make an appointment.  Staff at local offices are particularly mindful of vulnerable populations, people with disabilities, and other groups that need specialized or immediate attention when they walk in.  People can schedule an appointment by calling their local office (recommended) or 1-800-772-1213, which also has a call-back feature.  People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call Social Security’s TTY number, 1-800-325-0778.

Press Release:

Beginning at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, the Genesee County Jail’s main phone number, 585-343-0838, will be out of service for approximately 30 minutes. During this time, no incoming calls are able to be received, 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:

Six Flags Darien Lake, The Coaster Capital of New York, is thrilled to announce its fan-favorite lineup of special events for the 2025 season, beginning with Opening Day on May 16. From Star-Spangled Night to Fright Fest, there is something exciting for everyone to enjoy when they visit this year.

Mind Eraser, the suspended looping coaster will reopen for 2025 with a newly profiled track, a fresh new paint job, and the addition of two new trains which include comfort updates such as wider seats and a new restraint system. The ride is 110 feet long with five inversions including a heart-loop. It is New York’s only suspended looping coaster. The ride closed in 2024 for these improvements and upgrades. The ride will open with the park this season offering guests a whole new smoother and comfortable ride experience.

“This is the most exciting summer to visit Darien Lake ever,” expressed Six Flags Darien Lake President Christopher Thorpe. “Whether you’re visiting for a new ride experience like Mind Eraser, the refreshing water park, a rocking night out at a concert, our laser show, or any one of our incredible signature seasonal events, the fun starts now. Our welcoming team is committed to ensuring our guests have a spectacular visit and create memories that last a lifetime.”

2025 Event Lineup

Opening Day (May 16) - Welcome back to Six Flags Darien Lake! Experience an unforgettable day of thrills, entertainment and more when the park opens for the season.

Hurricane Harbor Opening Weekend (May 17-18) - Jump back into the poolside fun at Hurricane Harbor! Ride the slides, relax in the pool, or stay cool in one of our exclusive cabanas. Bring your bathing suit and take the plunge when Hurricane Harbor opens to the public.

Star-Spangled Night (July 4) - Celebrate the spirit of our nation at Six Flags Darien Lake with a breathtaking patriotic fireworks show. Perfect for all ages!

Live Nation Concert Series (various dates) - Get ready for the ultimate summer experience at Darien Lake Amphitheater! Join us for a thrilling Live Nation concert series featuring top artists like The Lumineers, Dierks Bentley, Kesha, Nelly, and Blink-182 and more. Concert-goers receive admission to Darien Lake, Hurricane Harbor, and more with ticket purchase. Stay where you play with an overnight adventure in our hotel, RVs or cabins, or rough it by camping at one of our campsites. Rock on! Complete listing of concerts here.

Kingdom Bound (July 27-30) - Experience Kingdom bound, a three-day Christian music festival at Darien Lake featuring four stages and 50+ artists. Guests receive admission to Darien Lake and Hurricane Harbor, special experiences, and more. Complete information at https://www.kingdombound.org/.

Oktoberfest (Aug. 30-Sept. 14, Select Days) - Enjoy the mouthwatering tastes of Oktoberfest right here at Six Flags Darien Lake! Indulge and savor the tastes and sounds of Germany, as we offer authentic German food, beverages, music and family-friendly entertainment. Plus, the park’s most popular rides are open, making Oktoberfest a must-do event for the whole family. Prost!

Fright Fest (Sept. 20-Oct. 25, Select Nights) - Get your fright on this fall when Fright Fest returns to Six Flags Darien Lake! The theme park transforms into a scream park filled with Halloween attractions that offer unforgettable thrills and unspeakable horror. Discover your scream with eerie scare zones, thrilling night rides, amazing live shows, and spine-chilling haunted houses.

Kids Boo Fest (Sept. 20-Oct. 25, Select Days) - The spooktacular fun returns this fall at Six Flags Darien Lake with Kids Boo Fest! Filled with Halloween activities, entertainment, trick-or-treat trails and other not-so-scary experiences, Kids Boo Fest is perfect for the little ghouls and ghosts in your family.

On select summer nights, be dazzled by the Laser Light Spectacular show beginning at dusk. Set to exciting music, and enhanced on weekends with fireworks, this laser show is a must-do way to celebrate the end of your day of thrills.

Guests can enjoy unlimited visits to Six Flags Darien Lake and Hurricane Harbor through Labor Day with a Silver Season Pass for only $55 (plus tax) through May 27. For more information on tickets, season passes, events or hours of operation, visit https://www.sixflags.com/darienlake.

The best way to enjoy the park is by booking one of many unique lodging accommodations to extend the fun. Learn more about the best deals at https://www.sixflagsdarienlakelodging.com/.

Six Flags Darien Lake is now a smoke-free environment. For the convenience and comfort of all guests, smoking of any kind, including vapor and e-cigarettes, is not permitted inside the park.