Van Detta Stadium was filled once again with cheering fans Friday evening, only this time they were parents, family members and friends of the 169 graduates of Batavia High School’s Class of 2024 during commencement ceremonies.

Dressed in school colors of blue and white, graduates were sent off with words of encouragement to persevere, celebrate one another, challenge the norms, uplift those around them, and use Batava’s educational lessons to press and move onward through life.

“We may not be ready; nevertheless, we face onwards and take the first step forward,” Class Co-Mayor Lilyana Burke said. “Graduating high school, we’re apparently adults now, and yet I have absolutely no idea what is going to happen next, but that’s the best part. So far, we have experienced everything from friendships and football games to breakups and bus rides. Now it is time for us to experience something new.”

Co-Mayors Parris Price and Burke offered words of reflection for what they and their class members just endured and the people who supported them through it — some 60 teachers, aides, lunch ladies, office staff, faculty, security guards and school resource officers — as they remain “wide-eyed and excited for what comes next,” Burke said.

When working on a college essay, she discovered a quote from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that she will use to guide her into this next chapter of life: “Is it really just the issue of physical safety that makes our loved ones so anxious at the idea of us getting out there? Or is it the threat that if we look past our frames, the frames of our own lives, of our own communities’ structured values and belief systems, to truly  engage with people who believe fundamentally different things, we could perhaps be transformed into someone new and unfamiliar to those who know and love us?”

During her high school career, she learned that people are afraid of change: old friends can become strangers, and old habits can become lost. Yet, people are also attracted to change, as old strangers can become family while bad habits are lost, she said. To boil that down, she said that “without change, growth cannot occur. Without growth, there is no life, only routine.”

Price added that navigating life is like playing a game where “we encounter challenges, make choices and strive for achievements.”

High school was rife with events such as homecoming that captured the school spirit perfectly, he said.

“From creating vibrant murals that painted our school with creativity to the exhilarating relay races between classes, we embraced teamwork, creativity, and friendly competition — all essential skills in the game of life,” Parris said. “Just as in any game, each moment taught us valuable lessons about collaboration, perseverance, and the joy of shared experiences, preparing us for the challenges and victories beyond the halls of high school.”

Commencement Speaker Joseph Hussar, a 19-year city school district veteran and high school counselor, began his talk by offering the group an opportunity to breathe. 

This ceremony is a culmination of 13 years in the making, he said, and it was now okay to really absorb this once-in-a-lifetime moment after enduring the trials of academics, COVID and random school threats.

“I want to say that there's never been a group of students that I've been more excited to see than the class of 2024, having walked into the school as freshmen. I remember so many of the high points and low points of your high school journey, both collectively and individually. And I feel honored to be a part of it. I remember the one-way stairs, the cones in the halls, classes every other day, and tables in the cafeteria. And even though it wasn't ideal, we were all excited just to have another opportunity to be back in school, and opportunity to make memories and to try to have our normal life back. Because that was all we wanted, was a chance to be normal again,” he said, recalling those early days of the pandemic. “But then I remember in November and December of 2021, without question in my career, that's the lowest point I've ever seen in a collective group of students. We canceled school because of violent threats. We mourned the loss of one of your classmates. And student and staff engagement was at an all-time low. 

“The counselors ran circles in your classes to address concerns about the school climate, to see what we could do to improve the school climate. We wanted to give you a chance to speak up and make positive changes in the school. And you did. You were honest and open and respectful. And you made the school better, not perfect, but better than it was before. You showed them when given the opportunity, you can use your voice to encourage each other and to inspire change,” he said.  Today, you'll be given a diploma. And with that, an opportunity to open more doors. However, opportunity without action is useless. The only thing opportunity promises you is a chance; what you do with that chance is up to you. Up to this point in your life, you've been in the passenger seat; you've always had someone else to blame, whether it was parents or teachers or any other rules. No matter what, you follow those rules, whether you like them or not. After today, you are now the driver.”

Being the driver means access and ability to choices: don’t like your job, find a new one or work to make it better; if you don’t like where you live, then move; if you’re unhappy in your relationship, work it out or leave, he said.

“No matter what, you have opportunities to make your life what you want it to be. The harsh reality is that the older you get, the less patient people become with your excuses,” he said. “If you don’t like something in your life, make a change; you will finally be given that opportunity. As you go out into the next chapter of your life, I really hope that you never forget that you matter and that you have a purpose. You are everything to someone, and you have an impact on people that you may never know. You are the hero in someone’s story, and you are the role model to others in need.”

He ramped up the crowd by suggesting that while the diploma was for the student who walked up front to accept, it was for those onlookers in the stands politely holding their applause during each speech. “Let them take pictures and scream your name and embarrass you a little bit today,” he said.

His final piece of advice to these impending graduates — 46 going on to four-year colleges and 61 to two-year schools, four entering military service, and 29 already have found jobs — is to be grateful and humble.  Be responsible. Be a voice for the voiceless and hope for the hopeless, he said. 

“Stop comparing yourself to everyone else,” he said. “There will never be a better version of you than you no matter what. Don’t ever let anybody ever tell you that you are a yellow Starburst because you, my friends, are pink Starbursts., and don’t ever forget that.”

It wouldn’t be a traditional BHS graduation without Superintendent Jason Smith’s story about someone’s perseverance and a related token to be given to each graduate. 

He shared about Ferdinand Cheval, a 19th-century Frenchman who built a palace from pebbles. Regarded as an amazing example of architecture, Smith noted its even more astonishing trait of having been built over the course of 33 years by Cheval. It took him eight more years to build his own future mausoleum.

“Each of you will receive a small bag of blue pebbles inspired by this story and to remind you of the power of perseverance and persistence when setting goals as you begin life post-high school,” Smith said. “Use your Batavia roots and the lesson of perseverance and persistence to make a positive and lasting impact in our world. When you persist, you keep going. You keep moving. Failures will always happen, but always keep moving forward and build your own castle and dreams, whatever it may be, but persist and move on.”

And finally the moment arrived for High School Principal Jennifer Wesp to hand out the diplomas. She cautioned the group about a human tendency to go to the “dark side” sometimes and predict doom and gloom rather than opt for positive outcomes. Choose the latter, she said.

“I have no doubt that the future holds incredible opportunities. Go out and seize them with courage, grace, and the boundless talent that defines you all. And, when you are feeling nervous about a new beginning, perhaps your dark side thoughts come thundering in, just pause. Get centered. Reflect back on your time at Batavia and all the news that you triumphed through,” West said. “Choose excitement instead. Trust that you, my dear Seniors, have all you need inside to do anything you so choose.”

Special awards were given to the following: The E.G. Richmond Award, for a student with outstanding academic achievement in all courses of study, went to Emma Bigsby. The Board of Education Award Ex-Officio Member Award went to Peyton Woeller, and the Batavia City School District Foundation Award went to Kaelee Kelso and Peyton Woeller for having been successful in their education programs and for exemplifying a school culture of being respectful, responsible, safe, connected and ambitious. 

To view or purchase photos, click here.

Barracuda, a Heart tribute band, certainly did Rock the Downs on Friday evening with a spot-on recreation of the class rock band's sound.

The band is led by Shareen Ann King, a Rochester native and currently a Nashville resident. She delivers an excellent, Ann Wilson-like vocal.  

Jennifer Janet is on rhythm guitar, and Chris Reynolds plays lead guitar.

Photos by Howard Owens.

A second person has been charged in the death and apparent dumping of the body at a location in the town of Alabama in March.

Norman S. "Bud" DeBois, 45, of Lockport, is charged with hindering prosecution in the first degree, a Class D felony, tampering with physical evidence, a Class E felony, concealment of a human corpse, a Class E felony, and conspiracy in the fifth degree, a Class A misdemeanor.

Previously, on April 19, Kathryn A. "Kit" Henry, 33, of Lockport, was charged with murder in the second degree, a Class A-1 felony, assault in the first degree, a Class B felony, concealment of a human corpse, a Class E felony,  hindering prosecution in the first degree, a Class D felony, tampering with physical evidence, a Class E felony, conspiracy in the second degree, a Class B felony, and conspiracy in the fourth degree, a Class E felony.

On March 19, deputies found the body of Michael G. Poole, 59, of Olcott, during an investigation into a missing person report.

A third person is also expected to be charged. The Sheriff's Office said there is no threat to public safety. That person is in custody on unrelated charges.

DeBois was arraigned on Friday and released under supervision. He is scheduled to appear in Alabama Town Court on July 16. 

The following individuals were charged at the Kenny Chesney concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on June 27:

• Joseph A Stephany, 18, of Le Roy, charged with possession of alcohol under 21.
• Joseph A. Dirisio, 18, of Batavia, charged with possession of alcohol under 21.
• Emily J. Schlabach, 19, of Clarence, charged with trespass after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected.
• Marissa T. Peters, 22, of North Tonawanda, charged with harassment 2nd after allegedly striking another person while inside the venue.

All four individuals were issued appearance tickets.

 Press release:

The Notre Dame Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of two school administrators. Effective July 1^st 2024, both Lindsay Warner and Julia Rogers will take on key leadership roles for the school. 

Lindsay has been appointed Principal of Notre Dame Junior/ Senior High School, and Julia Rogers has been appointed Director of Instruction, Curriculum and Assessment.

Jim Sutherland, Board President, commented, “As an alumnus and trustee, I am thrilled that we have such passionate and experienced educators leading our fine school.  The board has every confidence that their deep experience, coupled with their commitment to the highest standards, will help our institution reach another level entirely. With these hires, the Trustees strongly feel that we are investing in the bright future of our school.”

About Mrs. Warner
As an ND alumnus, coach, teacher, parent, and administrator, Mrs. Warner is dedicated, compassionate and committed to ensuring the success of all students and staff. She holds a BS in Business Administration and an MS in Business and Marketing Education and is NYS-certified as a School Building Leader and District Leader.

After undergraduate school, Lindsay returned to her Alma Mater were she rejuvenated the Business program and curriculum, winning awards for her innovation and instruction. Her tenure at Western NY Tech Academy also demonstrates her initiative as an educator. It supports her dedication to teamwork, as well as her support of leadership in marketing, recruitment and culture building.  This past school year, Mrs. Warner served as our assistant principal. As Principal, she will continue to ensure an environment where students and staff feel valued, heard and safe. 

About Mrs. Rogers
A native Batavian, Julia’s family has been part of the Notre Dame community since the beginning. Her mother, Sheila Tehan Rogers, was part of our very first graduating class. Her father, Brad, coached basketball at ND. Julia has siblings, a niece, nephews and many cousins who have walked the halls and are proud students and alumni of ND.

Julia’s dedication to the vibrancy of our community is clear. She is a member of Our Lady of Mercy Parish. Julia enjoys volunteering with her church community, golfing, and genealogy. A former volunteer at the NICU at Sisters Hospital, Julia is a member of the Batavia Rotary Club, Holland Land Office Museum Board of Directors, and the Salvation Army Advisory Board and is involved in many other community outreach programs.

Julia holds a BA, an MS in Bilingual Education and a Certificate of Advanced Studies. After teaching at the start of her career 30 years ago, she quickly moved on to school administration. She served as an administrator for Batavia Middle School, coordinator of assessment and instruction, and coordinator for the community schools program, both at BCS.

Miss Rogers is excited about the opportunity to enhance Notre Dame’s strong academic program.    “I am thrilled to be able to be part of the Notre Dame family.  The foundation of ND’s instructional program shows the values of education and achievement.   I look forward to observing and offering diverse and innovative ways to improve student learning outcomes.”

The Western Regional OTB Board of Directors passed multiple resolutions at its regular meeting on Thursday.

Highlights:

• Hire Kim Crawford at a cost of $155,661 to maintain the race track in 2024 and 2025, which includes resurfacing, rebanking, and maintaining the track at the highest possible level. The contract runs July 27 through Feb 27 (72 live race dates) and July 26, 2025 through Dec. 6, 2025 (56 live race dates).
• Contract with Quality Inn and Suites, 8250 Park Road, Batavia, to provide four units at the hotel to accommodate up to nine groomers, required under an agreement with the New York Horsemen's Association, at a cost not to exceed $40,000. Quality Inn and Suites was the only hotel in the area that responded to a request for proposal.
• Contract with the Genesee  County Sheriff's Office is to provide law enforcement officers with assistance with security at Batavia Downs from June 1 to May 31, 2025, at a cost of $150,000.
• Contract with Batavia PD to provide law enforcement officers for additional security at the concert venue on concert nights, June 10 through Aug. 31, for a cost of $35,000.
• In order to provide additional parking for customers, contract with DAB LLC to allow parking in the former Kmart parking lot at a cost of $80,000.

A weekend of art and music kicks off a week from today, Friday, July 5, with an open mic and open art session in Jackson Square.

Then, on Saturday, July 6, the 2024 Ramble Music and Arts Fest will celebrate the music and art of Genesee County and the region.

The events on Friday are hosted by Iburi Photography, Jo David Arts, and GO ART!

Musicians are encouraged to arrive starting at 5:30 for the open mic, which starts at 6 p.m. and runs until 9 p.m. Following the open mic, Scotty DiMartino  of Esdee Entertainment will close the night with music and a light show.

GO ART! is bringing its "First Friday Open Art Session" to Jackson Square that evening. Artists of all media are invited to bring their latest pieces or start new ones. While tables will be set up for convenience, artists are welcome to bring their easels and create in the open air.

The free event is open to the public.

The Ramble features 26 performers on two stages -- the main (and newly constructed) stage in Jackson Square and on a stage on Jackson Street.

Jackson Street will be closed for the day.  It is were attendees can find artists' booths, vendors, and food.

Here is the lineup for the two stages:

Jackson Square Stage

• Tom Ryan & Friends, 11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
• Lonesome Road. 11:40 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.
• Gumshoe, 12:20 p.m. - 12:50 p.m.
• Driven, 1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Indigo Flow, 1:40 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
• The Real News, 2:20 p.m. - 2:50 p.m.
• Soulshine Band, 3:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
• Prospect, 3:40 p.m. - 4:10 p.m.
• Bad Sign, 4:20 p.m. - 4:50 p.m.
• The Rock-A-Bully's, 5:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
• Shotgun Pauly, 6:10 p.m. - 6:40 p.m.
• Groove, 6:50 p.m. - 7:20 p.m.
• Sons Of Luther, 7:30 p.m. - 8:20 p.m.
• The Royal Halls, 8:30 p.m. - Close

Jackson Street Stage (On the corner of Jackon St. and School St.)

• Jack Waite, 11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
• Dave Knaudt, 11:40 a.m. - 12:10 p.m.
• Paul K Almeter, 12:20 p.m. - 12:50 p.m.
• Don Thomas, 1:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Howard Owens, 1:40 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
• David Holnbeck, 2:20 p.m. - 2:50 p.m.
• Steve Fisher, 3:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
• The Remediators, 3:40 p.m. - 4:10 p.m.
• Surging Motion, 4:20 p.m. - 4:50 p.m.
• The Cowboy Vampires, 5:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
• Distant View, 6:10 p.m. - 6:40 p.m.

Press Release:

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) joined Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) in introducing the More Opportunities for Moms to Succeed (MOMS) Act. The act provides critical support to new moms during and after their pregnancy, empowering women to choose life and raise happy, healthy babies.

The bill was cosponsored by Representatives Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Ashley Hinson (IA-02), and Doug Lamborn (CO-05).

“The right to life is one of the most fundamental principles outlined in our Constitution,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “We must provide pregnant women with the vital resources and critical support they need to choose life. Following the second anniversary of the monumental Dobbs Decision, I am honored to join my colleague Rep. Fischbach in leading the MOMS Act, which ensures that mothers receive the physical, emotional, and financial support necessary to carry their pregnancies to term. We must empower expecting mothers to choose life and support pregnant women, new mothers, and both their unborn and born babies.”

"Many women feel unprepared when they get pregnant, and I am committed to empowering all women and ensuring they feel supported in choosing life," said Congresswoman Fischbach. "The MOMS Act supports women before, during, and after they give birth, improving access to resources and making sure women have all the resources at their fingertips to help them confidently carry to term and raise their child. I am so proud to support legislation that supports new mothers and their children."

“I am pleased to co-lead the More Opportunities for Moms to Succeed Act,” said Congressman Lamborn. “This legislation aims to enhance health, education, and support services for babies, mothers, and families by offering alternatives to abortions. It mandates that states enforce child support responsibilities from conception through pregnancy, retroactively if necessary, with proof of parenthood. Additionally, the bill incorporates provisions from my Good Standing Adoption Agencies Act to positively impact pregnant mothers and their babies during the adoption process. It underscores the commitment of pro-life and pro-family conservatives to supporting life and the well-being of nuclear families beyond birth."

“When a woman finds out she is pregnant, she should be surrounded with resources and support and feel confident in her access to care,” said Congresswoman Hinson. “I’m proud to co-lead the MOMS Act to help more women choose life, have a healthy pregnancy, and create the foundation for strong families. This legislation will save moms and babies and advance a culture of life of America.”

"No mother should ever feel left behind, unsupported, or be fearful for the future of their child," said Congresswoman Harshbarger. "The MOMS Act will help ensure that mothers have the help and resources they need before, during, and after pregnancy, enabling them and their families to thrive. I am proud to help introduce this legislation to increase access to care for expecting mothers and their children and promote life as the clear choice for our future families."

Following a 15-2 blowout victory over the Jamestown Tarp Skunks, the Muckdogs return to Dwyer Stadium for a non-league game against the Rochester Ridgemen, and the return of former assistant coach Thomas Eaton to Dwyer Stadium. 

Aselta (ROC) v.s. Brooks (BAT) 

#GoDogs

Click here to see these listings and more! Call Reliant Real Estate today, 585-344-HOME (4663)

LEGAL NOTICE: Notice of Public Hearing, Town of Batavia Zoning Board:

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Batavia will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, July 15, 2024, at 7 p.m. in the Town Hall, 3833 West Main St. Rd., to consider two (2) area variance requests from Alyssa Shea for property at 1436 Colonial Blvd., Batavia N.Y. 14020.  Tax map parcel #8, -2-61

The applicant is asking for variances to demolish an existing garage and build a larger one. The two (2) requests are for a side yard and a back yard offsets.

Town code section 235, Attachment 1.

Side yard requires 30 feet, request is for 5 feet.

Rear yard requires 50 feet, request is for 5 feet.

Zoning Board of Appeals invites and will accept both oral and written comments relevant to this application at said hearing. A copy of the application is available for review at the Town Hall.

By order of the Town of Batavia Zoning Board of Appeals 

John T. Della Penna, Chairman 

June 17, 2024

Growing up in Batavia in the 1950s, you could say my family was middle class. We had a house (or an apartment for two years from '55 to' 57), a car (usually a Pontiac), food to eat, and clothes to wear. 

We weren't rich by any means, but we were comfortable. I'm sure my parents worried about money, but my younger brother Dan (later joined by even younger brother Jim in 1958) and I probably didn't give it much thought.

My dad, James senior, was a salesman for Robfogel Paper Supply, based in Rochester. His main clients were restaurants or any business that used napkins, cups, etc. His job involved a lot of driving around Western New York to call on his customers. When he got home at night, he would spend time writing up his “orders” and then calling them in by phone. Summer was more lucrative than winter, as is usually the case with some food services.

My mom, Anna Newhouse Reilly, was a stay-at-home mom when we kids were younger. As we got a little older, she took on a couple of part-time jobs, such as working in the cafeteria at our school, St. Mary's and being a part-time bookkeeper in the evening at The Steak House Restaurant on West Main Street Road. She stayed at home again when Jim was born, but as we all got older, she developed a nice career as an office manager for the North American Automobile Association (a Canadian-based competitor of AAA), then McAlpine Barton Clothiers, and finally for the Dipson Theatre Corporation.

Like most other families, when summer came, we went on vacations. However, due to not having a lot of excess money to spend, ours were limited to going on what my dad might call “on the cheap.” There were no planes or ships involved (unless you count the Staten Island Ferry), and our accommodations were modest at best.

Santa, Salt Water, and Saints
The first trip I recall (barely) was when I was about five years old. We took a driving tour through New England and up into Quebec in Canada. I don't think my brother Dan went, as he would have been about two. Possibly my Aunts Kate and Peg babysat him. It was probably 1952. I remember very little about the car ride, but there were no Thruways back then, so it must have been slow going. I think I recall my mom telling the story that I was carsick for a lot of the trip, which must have been great fun for her and Dad. Dramamine for motion sickness was invented in 1949 (too late for World War II seagoers, unfortunately), so we probably stopped at the drugstore.

Being so young, the only three real memories I have of that whole trip were visiting Santa's Workshop in the Adirondacks near Lake Placid, driving through the fishing port of Gloucester, Mass., and smelling the sea air and fish and visiting the Basilica of Sainte-Anne de Beaupre in Quebec.

My Santa's workshop memories have been enhanced by some old 8mm film of the visit that my parents had and that I had converted to DVD. I'm not sure whether that was the only event my parents filmed or the rest just got lost. I got to sit on “Santa's” lap, stood by the “North Pole” with my mom, sat in a sleigh, and petted some sheep. I don't know why Santa had sheep. Maybe to get wool for his suit?

My mom was a newly converted Catholic, so St. Anne's was a must-stop for her. The site is world renowned for the miracles people claim happen to them as they visit. I do remember a large quantity of crutches, canes and braces on display, left by people who attested that they had been cured of their ailments. I wonder if there was an empty Dramamine box left on the pile.

The Great Cascade
A short excursion was when we took the obligatory day trip to Niagara Falls, probably in 1953. This included a ride on the Maid of The Mist boat, which at that time was still powered by steam engines. You got a rain slicker to wear, and it took you within a couple of hundred yards of the Falls. In 1949, Jawaharlal Nehru, the Prime Minister of India, preceded us on the trip, and Marilyn Monroe went on the boat the year before us in 1952 while filming the movie “Niagara.” In 1995, I took my kids on it, and several years ago, my favorite music group, The Tedeschi Trucks Band, played Artpark nearby and had a day off, so some of them went on it too.

Gasping and Gherkins
A nearby vacation that we took pre-Jim Jr. was renting a cottage for two weeks on Keuka Lake, one of the beautiful Finger Lakes. Our cottage was right down by the water and pretty private as far as not having other close neighbors on either side. For one of the weeks, my dad continued to work during the day as businesses near there were on his sales route. We did a lot of swimming, catching frogs, and generally being outdoors. Since we are very fair-skinned of Scandinavian and Irish heritage, my mom had to be very careful about us getting sunburned, though.

As usual, I tend to remember the odd or bad things that happened back then rather than the better things. There was a culvert by our cottage at the bottom of a hill. Its purpose was to carry run-off rainwater into the lake in the event of heavy rain. Across this conduit, someone had placed a large log. Naturally, my brother Dan dared me to walk across it. You can't refuse a dare from your little brother, so on the log, I went. About halfway across I slipped and somehow fell sideways so that when I landed the log went right into my abdomen. I had seen many football players on TV get “the wind knocked out of them,” but never had any idea what it felt like. I literally couldn't breathe. Dan hollered at the top of his voice for Mom, and she came running like she was trying out for the Olympics. She extricated me from the log and, through her calming voice and some massaging, got my breath back again. She got me into the cottage, and that was the end of my adventures that day. My stomach and rib area were pretty sore for a couple of days, and for the rest of our time there, I stuck to using a little bridge while staying far away from that log.

A humorous thing I recall is sneaking some little gherkin pickles out of the jar just before bed. I must have fallen asleep with one in my mouth because I woke up in the morning with one all shriveled up inside my cheek. I guess you could say I found myself in a pickle. Or, more accurately, I found a pickle in myself. I don't know if I ever told mom about that one.

Capers On The Cape
The following year, we went to Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with two other families, the mothers of whom were long-time friends of my mother. My Uncle Walt, my mom's younger brother, had married a woman who grew up in a family of fishermen in Provincetown, on the northern tip of “The Cape.” This only increased my mother's love for that area, which she had developed on trips there when she was younger.

Our Cape Cod vacation was not elegant, though. The three families rented a large apartment above a garage in the rear of someone's house. This space was shared by six adults and probably an equal amount of children. I suppose the Kennedys could have found some space for us at their compound, but they were busy running or getting ready to run the country. We did go to Sunday Mass at St. Francis Xavier Church in Hyannis, which the Kennedys often attended, but I don't think we spotted one of them.

We went to the beach almost every day, and my mom must have spent so much time protecting Dan and me from sunburn that she forgot about my dad. He got a really bad roasting, which kept him in pain for several days. I think he and the other two dads went out on an ocean fishing charter one day, but we kids didn't brave the seas. Of course, one day was devoted to the obligatory trip to Provincetown, but my only recollection of that visit was picking up a huge lobster out of a tank of salt water.

It wouldn't be me without one bad memory, and mine is of going to a park and getting spun around on one of those mini merry-go-rounds, which resulted in projectile vomiting. Are you picking up a pattern here? My whole life, I have been averse to anything that spins. When I was little, I couldn't even go on a regular merry-go-round without getting sick. How embarrassing is that? 

Amusement parks were and still are not fun for me. Crystal Beach in Canada, Boulder Amusement Park, Roseland in Canandaigua – we went to all of them, but I was pretty limited as to what I could do. Bummer, as we said in the '60s. How bad is this? I would get queasy on the swings!

The Boardwalk and the Big Apple
My mom loved the ocean, so the next summer, we went to New Jersey. Not Cape May, which is a big beach vacation spot, but a small borough called Manasquan, which is just south of Asbury Park. I guess we were a little poorer than I thought because, once again, we stayed in an apartment over a garage, this time just our family of four. We were right across the street from the boardwalk and the ocean, though, so that was nice. We had to swim carefully because the New Jersey coast is notorious for its undertow. Right around the corner was a miniature golf course, and brother Dan and I went there at least once a day.

Most likely, one of the reasons my parents chose that vacation location was my maternal grandmother was living nearby in Spring Lake, New Jersey. After my grandfather died in 1952 at age 61, she got remarried to a widower she had known along with his late wife when living in Brooklyn as a young woman. He was a tugboat captain in New York Harbor and was not home much, so she took a job in Spring Lake as a live-in maid. One of the days, my dad went on another ocean fishing charter, and mom and we kids went to Gramma's house and then took a train to New York City.

The part of the train ride I remember is going by the Brooklyn Navy Yard and seeing all the big ships. I also recall going on the Staten Island Ferry, so we must have gotten off and back on the train for that. Once we got to downtown New York City, we were hungry, so we went to an automat for lunch. A popular one was called Horn and Hardart. They were like a vending machine restaurant. If you have ever read the children's book “The Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler,“ which I used to read with my class as a teacher, one of them is featured. The food was behind a small door. You inserted your money and took out your serving. The rise of fast food places like McDonald's killed automats off, but apparently, they are making a small comeback.

We also went to the top of the Empire State Building, which at that time was the world”s tallest building. I had probably only ever been in an elevator a couple of times in my young life (maybe St. Jerome's Hospital or C. L. Carr's Department Store ), but certainly not one that went up 102 floors. I have always been afraid of heights, so I'm pretty sure when we went out on the observation deck, I looked outward while keeping my back firmly against the rear wall. I know I did the same thing in the '70s when we went to the top of the Sears Tower in Chicago (it was cloudy, and you couldn't see anything anyway) and the '90s when I ascended to the zenith of the CN Tower in Toronto. They have a see-through panel as the floor that you can stand on and look down, but there was no way I was doing that.

In the late 1950s, my dad left his job at the paper goods company and became a salesman for an oil refinery corporation based in Texas. His clients were now big equipment and construction businesses, and to put it bluntly, he didn't do very well. As a result, we didn't even have the finances to go on small vacations for a while, and I think that was what led my mom to go back to work. I guess Godfrey's Pond was our “vacation” spot for a while.

Later, in the 1970s, my parents and my youngest brother Jim took some vacations, such as visiting Nova Scotia. In the '80s, Mom and Dad enjoyed going to Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia and even spent Thanksgiving there once.

In the late 80s, Mom joined an elder traveling group and went to the Grand Canyon and even China. Just her luck, the trip was during the Beijing uprising, and she was there during the Tiananmen incident between students and soldiers. Unfortunately, her trip was cut short due to the danger.

So, were our 1950s vacations on a minor scale? Yes, but when you look back on it, we had fun and were certainly better off than some others who didn't get to go anywhere. Like everything else, it's all a matter of perspective. By the way, I have never been to Disney World, and my kids didn't get taken there either. Nothing against “The Magic Kingdom.” People love it. We were more the "rent a cottage in the Adirondacks" people. Whatever floats your boat – literally.

CEO Henry Wojtaszek's departure from Western Regional OTB really is a decision rooted in consensus with the Board of Directors, he said on Thursday evening, hours after the board voted 14-1 to buy out his contract

His last official day with the company will be Dec. 31.

"For my part, this is something I've discussed with a few members for a few months," Wojtaszek said.

The Batavian asked if he would further explain his decision and he declined to elaborate.

There have been rumors that he intended to run for elected office in Niagara County.  He said that's not his intention at this time.

"You know, people have asked me about that many times," Wojtaszek said. "I really have no idea at this time what I'm going to be doing. Like I told people today, I plan to practice law. That's what I did before. I came here, and I was general counsel first. So, I plan to do that. Anything other than that, we will deal with it at the time."

Wojtaszek started with the company in 2010 and became CEO in 2016.  His salary is $264,898.

The agreement approved by the board provides Wojtaszek with a full year's salary, to be paid out on Dec. 15. 

In the same motion that signaled the eventual end of Wojtaszek's career with the OTB, the board also approved buyouts for CFO Jackie Leach, and VP of Operations William White.

They will each receive a half-year's salary, paid out on Dec. 15 also, at the end of their employment in 2025.

Previously: OTB board votes to buy out contracts of top three executives

A rain postponement last night gives the Muckdogs an unexpected day off before their meeting against the Jamestown Tarp Skunks.

Brunstetter (BAT) v.s. Hough (JTS)

#GoDogs

Guest speakers and proclamations punctuated an evening filled with what Batavia Concert Band has been doing for the last century: entertaining local citizens with its live and toe-tapping music.

City Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. presented the group -- representative of all those dedicated musicians that came before them since 1924 -- with a proclamation praising the concert band for being one of the region's oldest continuously performing concert bands. The ensemble is made up of more than 60 instrumentalists from the brass, woodwind and percussion sections. 

Musicians range from high school students to 60-year-old veterans, Jankowski said, and City Council proudly recognized the group's achievements  and supports its purpose of "serving the community by creating music that's made by the people for the people."

"Now, therefore, on behalf of City Council and the city of Batavia, we do hereby recognize the Batavia Concert Band of the city of Batavia and congratulate them on their 100 year anniversary and extend our appreciation for your service and commitment to our community," he said.

The band has been sustainable, in part, thanks to funding from GO Art!, and the time and efforts of those musicians, Conductor John Bailey and Manager Jason Smith.

The concert band performs at 7 p.m. Wednesdays in Centennial Park unless bad weather moves it over to GCC.

To view or purchase photos, click here.

In a regular monthly meeting on Thursday, the board of directors for Western Regional Off-Track Betting voted to buy out the contracts of CEO Henry Wojtaszek, CFO Jackie Leach, and VP of Operations William White.

The board called the buyout a "renegotiation." 

Board President Dennis Bassett issued a press release after the meeting stating, "We have mutually renegotiated these contracts in the best interest of each individual and our corporation."

The statement characterized it as an "amicable separation."

In a statement issued after the meeting,  Wojtaszek said:

I’ve enjoyed my 15 years here at Batavia Downs, and I want to thank the board and all of our 400 employees for their support.  My focus now will be on ensuring a seamless transition to new leadership.

I see a great future for this organization as they build upon many of our accomplishments that have made Batavia Downs a first-class entertainment venue.   

After the meeting, when asked if this change in job status didn't constitute a firing, Basset said, "It's at their request."

He also said there was no political pressure to status change.

"We don't run this organization based on politics," Bassett said. "This is a business. There's no political pressure here to do anything."

Wojtaszek started with the company in 2010 as general counsel and became CEO in 2016.  His salary is $264,898.

Under the terms of the agreement with Wojtaszek, the CEO will leave his job on Dec. 31. In exchange for foregoing the remaining time on his contract, he will receive a full year's salary.  He must also agree not to take a job or engage with any other entity in the gaming business through 2026.  Other benefits due to Wojtaszek will be resolved through negotiations.

Leach started working at Batavia Downs in 1989 as a staff accountant and earns $221,582 as the chief financial officer. She will leave her position after her sick, vacation, and compensation time, if any, in early spring 2025. She will remain on-premises through Jan. 31, 2025, and will split time between home and office in February. For the remaining time on her employment contract, she will be paid half her annual salary.

White was named VP of administration in 2012. His salary is $155,168.

He will continue working through April 30.   At that time, he will use up any remaining sick leave and vacation time. He will receive half of a full year's salary.

The resolution authorizing the "negotiations" authorizes Bassett to form a search committee for new executives.

The resolution passed 14-1, with Tim Callan, representing Erie County, casting the lone no vote. The seats for Seneca and Wayne counties are currently vacant. Genesee County's representative, Charles Zambito, voted yes.

After the vote, Board Member Vincent W. Horrigan, of Chautauqua County, said, "This cooperation, in my short time here, has achieved incredible results and performance for the counties for the state. That doesn't just happen. It's an incredible leadership team that made that happen. And I would just like to acknowledge the leadership team. They have done absolutely incredible work. Intentions are important, but results are to be congratulated."

Immediately after the meeting, Zambito declined a comment request.

While OTB's revenue and payments to the shareholder municipalities have grown significantly over the past decade, Batavia Downs has been the target of complaints about some of its business practices in recent years.

In November 2023, Western OTB protected $86.4 million in net revenue from racing and gaming operations for the year.  The 17 municipalities that own businesses were set to receive more than $10 million in distributions.

A decade and a half ago, the NYS Comptroller's Office issued a report that expressed concern that OTBs in the state, including Western OTB, were on the brink of failure. Since then, Batavia Downs has expanded gaming, added a concert series, remodeled its event space, started hosting more events, built a hotel, added two new bars, and remodeled its restaurant, with most of that business expansion coming in the past eight years.

The board came under fire for health insurance coverage members received based on a 2008 NYS Comptroller's report that seemingly contradicted previous comptroller's reports.  The report, which is no longer online, reportedly said Western Regional OTB wasn't permitted to provide free health care coverage to board members, even though two prior audits, state law, and case law supported the ability of government agencies that operated as businesses, such at Western Regional OTB, could in engage in standard business practices.

It's common in corporate America to provide health care, along with other compensation, to board members.

Attorneys for Western OTB said providing health insurance was legal, but an outside council hired to review the issue recommended that the board rescind the health insurance perk, which it did in 2021.

In another Comptroller's Audit, the agency found that OTB engaged in poor record keeping for how perks, such as tickets to Bills and Sabres games, along with other events, were distributed to Batavia Downs customers, implying that some tickets went to board members and family members. Contrary to some reporting on the report, there were no allegations of graft or illegal activity related to the perks.  The main issue was that Batavia Downs couldn't account for all of the tickets that were distributed.  At least nine percent of the tickets distributed by Batavia Downs went to non-players.  The facility has since improved its record keeping and tightened the rules around board members distributing and acting as hosts for gamers using the tickets.

The Comptroller also found that Wojtaszek did not properly record his use of a company-provided take-home vehicle.  Wojtaszek admitted that he did not file the proper paperwork and reimbursed OTB OTB $3,000 to resolve the issue.  At the time, the company was in the process of eliminating take-come vehicles and instead providing a vehicle allowance, which is now standard business practice in the United States.

Politicians and some reporters used the audits to misrepresent the issues raised as signs of "corruption." In May 2023, a Buffalo Democrat, Sen. Tim Kennedy, pushed through legislation to restructure the Western OTB board, establishing wasted votes based on county and city population, ending the equal distribution of board member votes among the counties and transferring control of the board to Buffalo and Rochester and Erie and Monroe counties.

The rural counties are suing the State of New York over the changes in voting structure.

"I can only say that I echo what Mr. Harrigan said," Bassett said after the meeting. "They have done a tremendous job. And they deserve, really, the time that they are going to move on and move forward with other endeavors. It's been a pleasure to work with all three of them."