Peter S. Celentano, Jr., 35, of Bergen, is charged with eight counts of criminal possession of a weapon 3rd, two counts of criminal possession of a firearm, and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon 4th. On Sept. 29 and 30, officers executed search warrants on the residence of Celetano in village of Bergen as part of a multi-agency investigation into the manufacture and possession of illegal firearms. Evidence was located at the residence as well as locations in Orleans County. The Sheriff's Office arrested Celetano on Dec. 4. He is accused of possessing large-capacity ammunition feeding devices, short-barreled shotguns, and 3D-printed firearm frames without serial numbers. Celentano was arraigned in Town of Bergen Court and ordered held on $10,000 bail or $20,000 bond. Celentano is being held on federal charges stemming from an arrest in October. He is accused of possessing AR-style receivers qualified as machine guns. He is also facing criminal charges in Orleans County following an arrest in November by State Police.

Tyler J. Bull, 22, of Medina, faces multiple unspecified charges following an incident reported at Alexander Central School on Dec. 4. Deputies responded to a 9-1-1 call at 6:02 p.m. The call reported a male assaulting a female in the parking lot. When school officials attempted to intervene, the male pulled out what appeared to be a handgun and menaced staff. When deputies arrived on scene, the male was taken into custody without incident.  The female was known to the male. Deputies recovered a C02 air pistol. Bull was jailed pending arraignment. 

Megan June Courtney, 28, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with grand larceny 4th. Courtney is accused of withdrawing funds from another person's credit card without permission on Nov. 30 at a location on Park Road, Batavia. She was issued an appearance ticket. Courtney was also arrested on Dec. 1 and charged with grand larceny 4th, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and petit larceny. Courtney is accused of stealing a credit card, money, and a vehicle in connection to a dispute with another person. She was held pending arraignment.

Timothy Gage Rathke, 24, of Lakeview Park, Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater and drinking alcohol or using cannabis in a motor vehicle. Rathke was reportedly found by Deputy Jacob Kipler sitting in a parked car on the shoulder of Route 33 in Stafford at 12:57 a.m. on Dec. 2. Following an investigation, he was issued an appearance ticket.

Brennan Pearce Blowers, 36, of East Avenue, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and failure to keep right. Sgt. Mathew Clor stopped Blowers at 12:44 a.m. on Dec. 2 on Genesee Street, Pembroke. Blowers was released on traffic tickets.

Zachary Ryan Eichenberger, 40, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd and inadequate plate lamp. Eichenberger was arrested on Dec. 2 on a warrant issued by the Town of Bergen Court stemming from an incident on July 20, 2021. He was held pending arraignment.

Marshawn Jamal Singletary, 42, of Maple Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd, criminal possession of a controlled substance 4th, and obstruction of governmental administration 2nd.  Singletary was arrested on Nov. 29 a warrant issued by Genesee County Court. He was held pending arraignment.

Robert L. Drennen, 42, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Drennen is accused of attempting to steal a case of beer. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Veronica Garcia, 44, of Buell Street, Batavia, is charged with felony DWI, felony driving with a BAC .18 or greater, circumventing an interlock device, drinking alcohol or using cannabis in a motor vehicle, moving from lane unsafely. Garcia was stopped at 12:32 a.m. on Dec. 4 on East Main Street by Deputy Jacob Kipler. She was released on an appearance ticket.

Myejay Nasir Braction, 20, of Wyoming Street, Buffalo, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Braction is accused of shattering the window of a cell door in the Genesee County Jail at 12:45 a.m. on Oct. 16. He was arrested on Dec. 4. He was arraigned on the charge in Town of Batavia Court.

James Carl Malone, 27, of Hopkins Street, Mount Morris, is charged with aggravated criminal contempt, endangering the welfare of a child, and harassment 2nd. Malone is accused of violating an order of protection during a disturbance reported at 9:22 p.m. on Dec. 7 at a location on Ellicott Street Road, Bethany. He is accused of slapping another person three times in front of three children. He was held pending arraignment. 

Terrance Lee Falk, 26, of Rochester, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Falk is accused of intentionally damaging the window of the Genesee County Jail at 3:15 p.m. on Nov. 30. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Brandon Ryan Fogg, 38, of Lyman Road, Byron, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon 3rd, menacing 1st, criminal possession of a weapon 4th, and obstruction of governmental administration 2nd. Fogg was arrested on a warrant issued in County Court stemming from an incident reported on Dec. 3 at a location on West Main Street, Batavia. Fogg was jailed and held.

Casey Thomas Vaughn, no age provided, of Prestige Xing, Batavia, is charged with aggravated criminal contempt, aggravated family offense, unlawful imprisonment 2nd, assault 3rd, and criminal contempt 2nd. At 11 p.m. on Dec. 3, deputies responded to a residence on Prestige Xing, Batavia, to check on the welfare of a female who was subject to a stay-away order of protection. Following an investigation, Vaughn was arrested and held pending arraignment.

Brandi Rose Hough, 29, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, unlicensed operation, deposited refuse on highway, and uncovered cargo. Hough was arrested on a warrant issued by town of Stafford Court stemming from an incident reported at 6:03 p.m. on July 2 on Route 63, Stafford. Hough was held pending arraignment.

David Henry Kendall, 40, of Sierk Road, Attica, is charged with assault 3rd. Kendall is accused of punching the driver of a vehicle in the face at 9 p.m. on Dec. 10 at a location on Veterans Memorial Drive, Batavia, which resulted in a motor vehicle collision. Kendall was held pending arraignment.

Matthew J. Sanchez-Sanquiche, 28, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with assault 2nd. Sanchez-Sanquiche is accused of assaulting another inmate in the Genesee County Jail at 3:16 p.m. on Nov. 30.

Press Release:

The School Library Systems Association of New York, in collaboration with leading experts in education and artificial intelligence, has announced the launch of a groundbreaking AI Scope and Sequence. Developed as part of the LibraryReady.AI project, with funding from the Allison-Rosen Foundation, this resource provides a dynamic framework for educators to guide PreK-12 students in understanding and engaging with artificial intelligence technologies.

As artificial intelligence continues to transform the world, this curriculum aims to empower students with essential skills in AI literacy, critical thinking, and information seeking practices. It outlines a comprehensive approach across four core strands: Why AI, How AI Works, AI in Society, and AI in Practice. These themes integrate computer science, media literacy, and information fluency, providing a broader approach to the topic. The learning concepts are aligned with New York State educational standards in computer science and library skills. Priority concepts for each grade band offer a way for schools to start exploring AI in the classroom or school library.  

Dr. Natalie Bazarova, a project advisor and AI expert from Cornell University, highlights the importance of the initiative:
"As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it is essential for students to understand how it works, its societal impacts, and how to use AI tools safely and responsibly. These technologies are now a part of our everyday lives, making it important to learn about AI in the context of real-world applications. New tools present both risks and opportunities, and combining AI literacy with critical thinking and information literacy will empower young people to be more adept at using AI technologies in mindful and productive ways."

Curriculum Highlights:

• Grade-Specific Concepts: Each grade band, from PreK to high school, explores AI through age-appropriate topics, ranging from recognizing smart tools to critically assessing algorithmic bias.
• Ethical Exploration: Students examine key issues, including data privacy, safety, and AI's impact on the workforce and environment.
• Real-World Applications: Lessons connect AI learning to tangible examples like chatbots, recommendation systems, and self-driving cars, making abstract concepts relatable.
• Future-Focused Learning: Students are encouraged to imagine and evaluate the possible uses of AI, fostering creativity and innovation.

The curriculum's development was made possible in part by the Allison-Rosen Foundation and driven by an interdisciplinary team of educators and AI specialists, including Dr. Bazarova and Dr. Qian Yang of Cornell University. 

Project Lead Dr. Christopher Harris, Director of the School Library System for Genesee Valley BOCES, emphasized the program’s transformative potential, stating "This initiative equips educators and librarians with the tools they need to introduce AI literacy effectively. By providing students with the skills to navigate an AI-driven world, we are preparing the next generation to be informed and ethical digital citizens. It is important that schools teach not just with AI, but about AI. We cannot abdicate our responsibility to prepare students for an AI-driven future."

Press Release:

The Genesee County Democratic Committee expresses its deep concern and steadfast commitment to supporting the people of Syria in light of the recent developments surrounding the regime of Bashar al-Assad. As we witness the potential for change in a nation long oppressed by dictatorship, we are reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the necessity for democratic values to triumph over tyranny. 

The downfall of authoritarian leaders like Assad serves as a powerful reminder to dictators and would-be tyrants across the globe: the will of the people cannot be silenced indefinitely. The cries for freedom, justice, and democracy resonate far beyond borders. It is essential for global leaders to acknowledge this pivotal moment in history—oppression may provide a fleeting illusion of control, but ultimately, it gives rise to resistance and unrest. 

As Americans, we have a responsibility to be champions for freedom, both at home and abroad. Whether in Ukraine, Syria, or any nation where liberty is under threat, we must stand with people who are fighting for their fundamental rights. Our nation’s strength is rooted in its enduring commitment to democracy and human dignity, and that commitment must extend beyond our shores. 

In this critical moment, the incoming Trump administration’s hands-off policy toward Syria—shaped by concerning ties to Russia—raises alarming questions about America’s role on the global stage. Prioritizing relationships with authoritarian regimes over support for democratic movements sends a dangerous message: that the United States may turn a blind eye to oppression.

The Genesee County Democratic Committee calls on our leaders to embrace a principled foreign policy that prioritizes the values of freedom and human rights. The struggle for democracy in Syria is not an isolated issue; it is a global fight that demands our attention, advocacy, and action.

We stand in solidarity with the brave individuals in Syria who are risking everything to build a brighter future. Their courage reminds us that democracy is not merely an ideal—it is a shared responsibility. Together, we can help ensure a world where liberty, equality, and justice prevail over oppression and tyranny.

Press Release:

The Genesee County Parks Department is excited to announce updates to its reservation process for park shelters and pavilions at Genesee County Park and Forest and DeWitt Recreation Area.

The department launched an online reservation system last year and, with its success, has decided to discontinue the traditional mail-in lottery system. 

Starting January 1, park reservations for 2025 will open to the public. Visitors can reserve their preferred date and location online at https://bit.ly/GenCoParksReserve or in person via a paper form at the Genesee County Highway Department at 153 Cedar Street, Batavia.

Reservation Details:

• Online Reservations: Visitors can use the online platform to secure their reservations quickly and conveniently.
• In-Person Reservations: Reservations can be made in person at the Genesee County Highway Department at 153 Cedar Street, Batavia. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Eliminated Lottery System: Reservations will be confirmed immediately upon payment, simplifying the process.

“We are thrilled to provide both online and in-person reservation options for 2025,” said Timothy J. Hens, Genesee County Public Works Commissioner. “The elimination of the lottery system and the addition of these flexible options will make planning park visits easier and more efficient for everyone.”

For more information or assistance, please call 585-344-8508, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Press Release:

The City of Batavia is pleased to announce the appointment of Bailey Groth to the position of Superintendent of Water and Wastewater for the City of Batavia. Groth was selected following an extensive search for candidates. She will assume her new role on December 18, 2024. 

A Pembroke native, Groth holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Toxicology and Biology from Nazareth College. With a certification in Basic Environmental Health Programs from the University of Albany, School of Public Health.

Groth currently serves as an Environmental Analyst - Drinking Water Specialist with the New York State Department of Health facilitating and managing the development of municipal source water protection plans. She is a current Environmental Health board member for Yummies Ice Cream in Warsaw. 

Previously she served as an Environmental Health Specialist with the Genesee County Health Department where she managed drinking water enhancement program, she was accountable for overseeing the public water supplies operating in Genesee County and compliance with State Sanitary Code.

“Bailey brings a wealth of knowledge in water planning and regulation as well as environmental sciences that will be an asset to the Bureau of Water and Wastewater for years to come. She is a data driven professional with strategic management skills, and I look forward to working with her on numerous Water and Wastewater projects that the City is undertaking,” said Rachael J. Tabelski, City Manager.

“Bailey will be a valuable asset to the City! With her extensive work background and education, her skills will contribute significantly to various projects and initiatives, helping to foster growth and improve in the City. Bailey has a wonderful mix of interests! Enjoying the outdoors and hiking allows her to appreciate nature and stay active, while spending time with friends and family helps strengthen her relationships. Crafting is her great way to express creativity and unwind, and having a pet like Tuna the cat adds companionship and joy. Whether she's hitting the trails or getting crafty at home, Bailey has a lovely balance of activities,” said Tom Phelps Director of Public Works.

Press Release:

Genesee County is pleased to announce the appointment of Katie L. Stein as the new Deputy County Treasurer. A lifelong resident, Katie brings a wealth of experience and a strong educational background to the position.

Treasurer-elect Kevin Andrews expressed enthusiasm about Katie joining the team, stating, “I am excited to work with Katie as we continue to serve the residents of Genesee County with transparency and fiscal responsibility.”

Katie resides in Le Roy and has deep roots in the Genesee County community. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Hilbert College and a Master of Science in Forensic Accounting from The College at Brockport, which showcases her commitment to excellence and specialization in finance. 

With extensive experience in compliance and financial management, Katie’s background positions her to bring valuable expertise and leadership to the Treasurer’s Office. Genesee County is confident that her knowledge and commitment to the community will further strengthen the office’s mission of fiscal stewardship.

Katie will officially begin her role as Deputy County Treasurer in January 2025.

Press Release:

Has your family’s elf been looking a little too chill on the shelf lately? If you woke up to find your mischievous holiday helper hasn’t moved from their spot- or worse, skipped their nightly trip to the North Pole – fear not! Rochester Regional Health’s beloved Elf-mergency Care Center is open and ready to save the season. Rochester Regional Health is pleased to open the doors again this year for the health and well-being of your family’s exhausted elf.

From Snowdrift Sniffles to Glitter Lung, our expert team is equipped to handle every elf ailment with care. Whether your elf is suffering from an allergy to human contact or simply needs a little holiday TLC, we’ll get them back to their shenanigans in no time.

Here’s what you’ll get:

• Doctor’s Note – Proof of a thorough elf checkup, because even magical beings need a paper trail.
• Photo & Video Evidence – Visual reassurance of your elf’s recovery, including virtual visit footage that proves we’ve worked our North Pole magic.
• Custom Care – Whether your elf needs a quick candy cane splint or a sprinkle of holiday cheer, we’ve got it covered.

And while the “Elf-mergency Care Center” specializes in elves, let’s not forget the humans in your house. If anyone in your family is feeling less-than-jolly this season, Rochester Regional Health offers plenty of care options—whether it’s in-office, at one of our urgent cares or online. You can find the right fit for your needs at rochesterregional.org/get-care-now.

Press Release:

Genesee Community College is pleased to announce the establishment of the Lucy and Otis Leach Endowed Scholarship. The endowed scholarship is made possible through a generous $100,000 endowment created by Edward and Otis Leach to benefit students graduating from Pavilion High School and attending Genesee Community College.

The Lucy and Otis Leach Endowed Scholarship is named in recognition of the donors' deceased parents. Despite not being able to attend school beyond the elementary level, Lucy and Otis Leach were true believers in all levels of education. Edward and Otis Leach, in establishing this endowment, expressed their hope that it will serve as a source of genuine support and inspiration for generations of Pavilion High School students attending Genesee Community College.

The scholarship funds may be used for various educational expenses, including tuition, course materials, fees, residence life, and other costs associated with student success. This comprehensive support aims to alleviate financial barriers and allow students to focus on their studies and personal growth. Preference will be given to students demonstrating financial need.

"We are immensely grateful for the generosity of Edward and Otis Leach," said Dr. Craig Lamb, President of Genesee Community College. "This endowment will make a significant impact on the lives of students from Pavilion High School, enabling them to pursue their educational dreams at Genesee Community College."

The first scholarships from this endowment are expected to be awarded for the 2025-26 academic year. Eligible students will be able to apply through the college's standard scholarship application process. For more information about the Lucy and Otis Leach Endowed Scholarship or other scholarship opportunities at Genesee Community College, please visit https://www.genesee.edu/pay-for-college/financial-aid/scholarships/.

For more information, contact Vice President, Development, Admissions and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email at jmjohnston@genesee.edu.

Residents throughout Batavia got busy this morning clearing paths and driveways following heavy snowfall in the early morning hours.

Press Release:

Grace Baptist Church is thrilled to announce its Christmas production of "A Christmas Carol," the timeless holiday story by Charles Dickens. This cherished tale of redemption will be Friday, December 13^th at 7:00 PM, Saturday, December 14^th at 3:00 PM, and Sunday, December 15^th at 10:30 PM at Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St, Batavia NY.

Under the creative direction of Esther Osterman, Grace Baptist Church’s production of "A Christmas Carol" promises to capture the journey of Ebenezer Scrooge as he transforms from a miserly curmudgeon to a man filled with compassion and Christmas cheer. The performance will feature a talented cast of nearly 50 people.

“We are excited to share this powerful story with the community,” says Pastor Jeffery Bartz. “It’s more than a play; it’s an opportunity to reflect on redemption and the true meaning of Jesus’ coming. 

Admission to the performance is FREE. Families and community members of all ages are encouraged to attend and experience this classic story of transformation.

Event Details

What: "A Christmas Carol"

When: Friday, 7pm. Saturday 3pm. Sunday 10:30am.

Where: Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St, Batavia, NY 14020

Admission: Free

This family-friendly production is a perfect way to celebrate the Christmas season. Come enjoy an evening of timeless storytelling and discover the true spirit of Christmas.

For more information, please contact Grace Baptist Church at 585-343-0729 or visit gracebatavia.org

Press release:

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is issuing a travel advisory for areas south of Route 5 in Genesee County, effective until further notice. 

Sheriff Sheron encourages residents, “For your safety and the safety of first responders and highway snow removal personnel, please stay off the roads until conditions improve.”

Motorists are encouraged to avoid all unnecessary travel due to heavy snowfall, blowing and drifting snow that is causing poor visibility and poor road conditions.  These conditions will undoubtedly create treacherous travel for all motorists. 

During a travel advisory roads are not closed, however, no unnecessary travel is advised. A trip that could wait should not be made until the advisory is lifted.  The Genesee County Sheriff's Office does not determine the necessity for any individual to report to work.

Press Release:

Join GO ART! on Thursday, December 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. to celebrate the opening of another exhibit featuring GO ART! member artists and staff members.

The public is invited to share this evening with us and view the visual art of local, regional, and GO ART! staff member artists. In addition to viewing the exhibition, visitors are invited to vote for their favorite piece to help us determine the People’s Choice Award and enjoy light refreshments and music. 

This art show is an annual exhibit that features work in all media created by GO ART! member artists. GO ART’s! Board of Directors, members, and staff look forward to this special exhibit each year that has become an annual signature event that wraps up all our fantastic events for the year!

Don’t miss this opportunity to consume a unique gift wrapped in diverse media that will evoke pleasurable emotions of joy, happiness, and peaceful contemplation. This is indeed a cause to celebrate with us, so we look forward to welcoming you. This event is free, but the experience will be invaluable!

GO ART! member artists exhibition runs from December 12 to February 1, and will be open for the public to view during gallery hours or by appointment.

Byron-Bergen lost to Attica on Wednesday in Boys Basketball 66-51.

For the Bees, Cody Carlson scored 20 points, and Cole DiQuatrro scored 10.

Also in Boys Basketball on Wednesday

• Greece-Athena beat Batavia 68-52. Carter Mullen scored 16 points for Batavia.
• Hornell beat Le Roy 57-47. Jean Agosto scored 17 points and had nine rebounds.

Photos by Jennifer DiQuatrro.

Oakfield-Alabama beat Elba on Wednesday in Boys Basketball, 67-51.

For the Hornets, Avery Waterson scored 21 points, and Mason Watterson scored 13 points.

For the Lancers, Ryan Marsceill scored 16 point,s and Brayden Jachimowicz scored 14.

Photos by Debra Reilly.

By several metrics, the business of Batavia Downs is growing.

Revenue is flowing in at a record pace. There are more customers, more bets placed, and more bookings at the hotel, but with added success comes added expense, which Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. board remembers and executives discussed on Wednesday during the Finance Committee meeting.

Both the casino and hotel have more employees, and with three executives taking buyouts, added expenses have severely reduced the revenue that will be shared with the 17 municipalities that co-own the WROTB.

Based on profits through October, WROTB is paying out $1,677,960 less than it did through October 2023. So far this year, net earnings available for distribution are $7,107,384, compared to $8,785,334 at this time last year.

"I was asked this question by an individual, 'Well, how does that make you feel, Jackie, that the distributions are down?,'" CFO Jackie Leach said during her report to the committee. "I said, "You know, there are reasons why they are down from 2023. One, the board approved a 4.5% wage adjustment for employees.' I've always stated that we're a customer-oriented organization, and your employees are your most valuable assets; 2023 was a banner year for the corporation. So, between the wage adjustments, we do have one leg of Henry's buyout that's included in the 2024 wages, that's the cost of doing business."

In July, the board voted 14-1 to renegotiate the contracts of CEO Henry Wojtaszek, CFO Jackie Leach, and VP of Operations William White to buy out the remaining years on their terms.

Wojtaszek, who earns $299,000, will receive a full year severance. Leach, with a salary of $222,000, and White, with a salary of $160,000, each get six months severance.  By the end of the year, Leach said she and Wojtaszek will receive their full payout, so it will accrue to 2024, for a total of $521,000. White will be paid in 2025.

As for employee expenses, in addition to the 4.5% raise for casino employees, the operation added more than 20 staff positions. Hotel employees received 50-cents an hour raises and the hotel, which is run by a management organization, also added staff.

"The hotel overall has had pretty good revenue," said Paul Bartow, representing Schuyler County. "I guess what you're saying is that we could do better. We need to produce more revenue to cover some of these expenses. If, in fact, it looks like the hotel is doing well, you're like, 'Oh, great,' but it's not doing well enough given these expenses, and these expenses, in some ways, have to be moved, I guess, checked with more revenue from the hotel."

Leach said that's correct.

"When your costs go up, then you've got to make some adjustments," she said.

Ryan Hasenauer, VP of business development, said he and his staff are working on booking more mid-week events in order to increase mid-week room bookings and Leach confirmed that management is looking at increasing room rates.

Total revenue so far this year for the hotel is $2,399,000, up from $2,306,000. Payroll increased from $761,000 to $881,000. Other expenses increased from $647,000 to $682,000.

The other expense cutting into revenue distribution, Leach said, is increased legal expenses.

"Am I concerned? No. I've always said this corporation has to keep reinventing itself because of the competition," Leach said. "We work within a very saturated, saturated market in Western New York."

By the numbers, October was a good month for Batavia Downs. The net video game win was $7,641,556, up over $500,000 from the previous October. The October distribution to municipalities was up by $1,381 ($41,532 compared to $40,151). 

In October, there were 98,676,000 credits played, up from 92,088,000 in 2023. The win per terminal increased from $253.28 to $266.27.

The casino contributed $3.7 million to the state's education fund.

Attendance at the track increased from 74,000 to 76,000.

The casino also saw an increase in food and bar sales. Total sales increased from $676,636 to $774,848. Less expenses, net sales was $526,214.

OTB branches continue to struggle. In October, revenue was down $22,000, at a total handle this October of $3,366,000.  Year-to-date revenue is $36,522,000, a decrease of $5,198,000 (There was a $1.6 million drop in revenue attributed to the closure of one branch).

Total revenue for October is $74,331,000, up $2.5 million compared to 2023.  Expenses also increased from $23,507,000 to $25,429,000.  Salaries increased $985,000, which is still $210,000 less than projected in the 2024 budget.

Besides salary, there has been, so far this year, an increase in expenses of $939,000.

Revenue help should be coming in 2025, Leach said, with new video lottery terminals added to the floor of Batavia Downs, approved by the state, and the anticipated approval of new EZBet machines for bars and restaurants in the region.

"I was assured by the Gaming Commission that the four EZBets that have been in the hopper -- some for a couple of years -- that we could include them in our 2025 plan because they will be approved by year-end, so we will see what happens there."