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Fat head minnows reel in potential 3-year contract for nearly $100K

By Joanne Beck
2011 Waste Water Treatment Plant Batavia NY
File Photo
By Howard Owens

Fathead minnows as a source of municipal revenue.

Who knew? Well, those at the city of Batavia’s wastewater treatment facility apparently did, and a request for bids to harvest the little guys was reeled in by two takers.

The highest bid submitted by Ray Daniels, however, required a non-collusive bidding certification and that was not signed, City Attorney George Van Nest said Monday.

“Mr. Daniels wrote a letter complaining about not being awarded the bid. However, I corresponded with him and identified that two pages were required for the bid. First Page was the financial offer … The second was the non-collusive bidding form, which is required under General Municipal Law Section 103 P. He did not complete that when he submitted his bid; therefore, his bid cannot be considered," Van Nest said during City Council’s business meeting at City Hall. “Just want to make that clear for council.”

Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. reiterated the attorney’s point that it’s “very important … to make sure that all paperwork is complete.”

“And maybe check with someone who knows how to do it to make sure you get it right because it’s unfortunate,” he said. “But technically, we can’t allow this.”

The next highest bidder was a A-1 Bait Supply of Niagara Falls, with a bid of $28,000 and the option of two additional years: years two at $30,000 and year three at $40,000.

Harvesting will occur at the wastewater treatment facility at 5 Treadeasy Ave. in Batavia.

Jankowski and Council member Bob Bialkowski lauded the sale. Bialkowski said the city invests a lot of money into the facility, including chemicals, treatments, and lime sludge removal.

“And we do get some return on the money,” he said. “I mean, this contract works just under $100,000 over three years. So it is a substantial amount of money to sell these.”

The minnows can end up as bait for sportsmen in the area, so “it gets recycled into recreation and various other activities for people even in the area,” Jankowski added. “So it’s kind of a nice cycle of events that take place to allow us to get some of the money back.”

City Council approved it with a unanimous yes vote from members Bob Bialkowski, Rich Richmond, Eugene Jankowski, Derek Geib, Kathy Briggs, David Twichell, Al McGinnis, and Tammy Schmidt. Council member Paul Viele was absent.

Previously: Batavia Wastewater Treatment Plant, one of city's hidden treasures

2011 Waste Water Treatment Plant Batavia NY
File Photo
By Howard Owens

On anniversary of line-of-duty death, badge number of Sgt. Sanfratello retired

By Howard B. Owens
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Photo by Howard Owens.

A year after his life was taken while on duty, the badge number of Sgt. Thomas A. Sanfratello, GS-09, was retired from service in a memorial on Monday outside the Sheriff's Office on Park Road, Batavia.

Also honored were three members of the department who also lost their lives in the line of duty: Constable William H. Johnson, March 15, 1895; Corections Officer Raymond F. Thompson, May 30, 2002; and, Deputy Frank Bordonaro, July 8, 2014.

"The badge we wear is more than just a piece of metal," said Sheriff Joseph Graff. "It represents commitment, sacrifice, courage, honor, unwavering dedication to protecting and serving our community. It's a reminder of the trust that is placed in those who wear it. We honor these men as they've been pillars of strength and mentors to many, true embodiments of integrity and professionalism. Through countless challenges and moments of triumph, they have worn the badge with honor, putting the needs of others aside for themselves. Their impact goes far beyond the uniform. They have touched lives, provided comfort in difficult times and made our community a better, safer place."

Brian Thompson, a retired deputy and brother of Raymond Thompson, delivered the closing prayer.

"Let the light of Your countenance, oh God, shine upon the families of our departed comrades," Thompson prayed at his closing. "May we go from your strength to your strength. Strengthen us all in resolve and keep faith with all patriots, servants, and shields by fearlessly maintaining our liberties so nobly won and paid for by those who have gone on before us. Grant us your help, oh God, that the families here today and the officers and members of the Sheriff's Office and local departments and jurisdictions may valiantly fulfill their role to our country, our state, our county and our home to serve towards your purpose of the establishment of justice and peace."

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Photo by Howard Owens.
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Sheriff Joseph Graff
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Retired Deputy Brian Thompson
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Photo by Howard Owens.

Lease agreement finally in place between City Council and Batavia Players

By Joanne Beck
Batavia Players on stage Whirligig
File Photo of Batavia Players at Main St. 56 Theater
Photo by Howard Owens

There was just one question before City Council voted on a lease agreement with Batavia Players Monday evening.

Has the group made any more payments since the last meeting, Councilman Bob Bialkowski said.

“Not that I’m aware of, no, but they’re working hard to make those catch-up payments,” City Manager Rachael Tabelski said during council’s meeting at City Hall. “I don’t have the exact balance but I believe they were down to $19,000.”

The lease renewal due in January was on hold due to back rent owed to the city by the nonprofit from Covid days when its Main St. 56 Theater was shut down. newly drafted lease has been put in place and was up for a vote during the council’s business meeting.

This agreement is for Batavia Players to pay $4 per square foot plus back rent of at least $500 per month in an effort to move forward from an original lease in December 2019.

The commercial lease is for city properties 2, 35 and 39 in Batavia City Centre, including 11,052 square feet of “improved commercial space that was renovated by Batavia Players through a Downtown Revitalization Initiative and Anchor grant,” Tabelski had said in a memo to council. “Base rent will remain $4 per square foot to be paid $3,684 monthly. Back rent will be paid $500 per month or more until the balance is satisfied. 

"The lease also recognizes the city’s capital projects for the roof and HVAC units previously approved by City Council and clarifies how the Batavia Players shall submit requests for maintenance to the property,” she said.

Boys Basketball: Alexander's championship season ends with loss to York

By Staff Writer
alexander basketball

York pulled out a two-point victory over Alexander on Monday at Letchworth in the Boys Basketball Class C consolidation game.

York won 66-64.

Scoring for the Trojans:

  • Dylan Pohl, 19 points
  • Kingston Woods, 12 points
  • Jake Brooks, 11 points
  • Austin Wakefield, 10 points

Photos by Melissa Brooks.

alexander basketball
alexander basketball
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alexander basketball

Final Vietnam Veteran Memorial ceremony to be held at WNY National Cemetery

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Western New York National Cemetery Memorial Council (WNYNCMC) will be hosting the LAST “VIETNAM VETERAN MEMORIAL” ceremony at the WNY National Cemetery, 1254 Indian Falls Road, Corfu, at 1100 hrs. (11 a.m.) March 29 at the Garrison Flag pole. 

The public is welcome and encouraged to attend this final ceremony honoring the Vietnam Veterans.

Leadership Genesee members become advocates for Genesee County business

By Press Release
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Photo of Leadership Genesee Class of 2025 visiting Liberty Pumps, Inc. in Bergen.

Press Release:

On Wednesday, February 26, members of the Leadership Genesee Class of 2025 met at Liberty Pumps in Bergen to begin their journey into discovering all kinds of things in relation to Genesee County’s Business & Economics. As one member shared, it was an AMAZING day, I learned so much about my city and my county!

At Liberty Pumps, the group participated in an activity designed to identify how much of their expendable income is spent in Genesee County. Much of our shopping today is done online for time and convenience. However, the group learned that by supporting local businesses, it ensures the vitality of the local economy and job creation which is good for everyone. What is spent local, stays local as 65 cents of every dollar spent remains in our community and even when shopping at a local big box store, the county retail sales tax stays here.

Mark Masse LG ’02, President & CEO of the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC), explained their purpose is to facilitate local economic growth and development, which fosters investment and job creation for the benefit of our residents and children. The organization has a board of directors, ensuring the vision is accomplished. He shared how the organization helps market and fund projects to bring them to Genesee County, ultimately helping grow the tax base for our residents.

Robyn Brookhart LG ’02, Chief Executive Officer and Dennis Burke LG ’01, Chief Financial Officer at Liberty Pumps gave the class perspective of how important their organization’s corporate culture is and how they work to maintain it. It is collaborative, communicative, and engaging where all members are respected. Their business has grown from 50 employees 20 years ago to over 330 today. They are intentional in words and actions which was evident as the class toured the manufacturing plant. 

Class members visited 17 local businesses to get an all-around view of how important local business leaders work for their families, their customers and for the Genesee County economy.

The day ended at Eli Fish where the class heard Matt Gray LG ’11 talk about his business/ leadership journey and plans for future business development. The sentiment felt by everyone was that the entire day opened them up to reflect on how and where they spend their money and exactly why it matters.

February’s session was hosted by Liberty Pumps, Inc. and Eli Fish Brewing Co. Meals were sponsored by Lawley and Gavin M. Townsend, Lic. RE Salesperson at HUNT ERA Batavia.

Leadership Genesee is a program of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County,  an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities. For more information, visit LG’s website at http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/leadership-genesee; “like” LG on Facebook at www.facebook.com/leadershipgenesee; or contact Program Director Peggy Marone at 585-343-3040, ext. 118 or mem77@cornell.edu.

Submitted photos.

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Photo of Members of the class touring Meraki Beauty Lounge, owned by Kate Willson.
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Photo of Dennis Burke LG ’01, Chief Financial Officer, Liberty Pumps, Inc.; Peggy Marone LG ’02, Director, Leadership Genesee; Robyn Brookhart LG ’02, Chief Executive Officer, Liberty Pumps, Inc.

Holland Land Office Museum now accepting applications for the Garth Swanson Memorial Scholarship

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce its Garth Swanson Memorial Scholarship for 2025. This scholarship was created in honor of Garth Swanson, who was the Stafford Town Historian, History professor at Genesee Community College, and a former board member and officer of the museum.

This $500 scholarship is open to any graduating senior in Genesee County planning to attend Genesee Community College, or current student attending Genesee Community College, and have an expressed interest in history, or plan on working in the history field in the future.

Completed applications should be mailed or emailed no later than May 1. They can be emailed to Ryan Duffy at duffyhollandlandoffice@gmail.com; or Mailed to Ryan Duffy, Executive Director, Holland Land Office Museum, 131 W. Main St., Batavia.

The application is available on both the museum’s website and social media pages. You can also contact the museum for the application or further information.

Town of Batavia Fire holds annual awards and installation banquet at Terry Hills

By Howard B. Owens
town of batavia fire 2025
Captain Brian Bentley, Firefighter of the Year, and Chief Christopher Strathearn.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Town of Batavia Fire held its annual awards and installation dinner on Saturday at Terry Hills.

At the start of the evening, the department held a moment of silence in remembrance of Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, who died in the line of duty on March 10, 2024, shortly after then of last year's dinner. Town volunteers responded to Batavia Downs for that incident.

Line officers sworn in:

  • Chief Christopher Strathearn
  • Deputy Chief Robert Hunt
  • 1st Assistant Chief Joshua Boyle
  • 2nd Assistant Chief Clayton Gorski
  • Captain Brian Bentley
  • Lieutenant Tyler Stewart
  • Safety Officer Paul Dibble

The department responded to 500 calls in 2024, including 233 fire alarms.

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Dwayne Fonda, who is now a firefighter with the City of Batavia Fire Department, received the President's Award from President Thomas Cunningham.
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Chief Christopher Strathearn.
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Gary Diegalman was honored for 50 years of volunteer service.
Photo by Howard Owens.
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town of batavia fire 2025
town of batavia fire 2025

Lucky Paws vendor show and basket raffle Saturday at Batavia City Centre

By Joanne Beck

A Lucky Paws Vendor Show & Basket Raffle is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Batavia City Centre in downtown Batavia. This event will feature more than 40 baskets and 65 vendors, with proceeds to benefit Vanessa’s Lasting Legacy Ltd.

There will also be pet photos taken for $10 each from 10 a.m. to noon. Participants are asked to please bring only pet-friendly dogs and cats, as organizers are not responsible for your pets or anything that might happen while on site.

Vanessa’s Lasting Legacy’s mission is to help keep dogs and cats from being separated from their local veterans, people with disabilities, the elderly and homeless.

“We focus on how animals protect our mental health and to keep the animals out of shelters and with their families,” co-organizer Kerry Dudek said.

Receive five free basket raffle tickets with a donation of unopened cat or dog food. Winners for the baskets to be drawn at 3:30 p.m.

Donations are also being accepted for new socks, hats, gloves, or other winter wear by Independent Living of the Genesee Region.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley sponsors 3 blood drives across Genesee County in March

By Press Release

Press Release:

March is American Red Cross Month, a time to recognize the vital role the Red Cross plays in our communities. Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) is demonstrating his commitment to this important cause by sponsoring a series of blood drives throughout the month. Hawley is hosting seven drives total, four in Genesee County and three in Orleans County.

The blood drives are as follows:

  • Monday, March 10: Pavilion Fire Department Recreation Hall, 11302 S. Lake Rd., Pavilion, from 1:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Friday, March 14: Lyndonville Presbyterian Church, 107 N Main St., Lyndonville, from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Tuesday, March 18: Albion Elks Lodge 1006, 428 W State St., Albion, 12:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Tuesday, March 18: First United Methodist Church, 8221 Lewiston Rd., Batavia, 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
  • Thursday, March 20: Holy Name of Mary, 2707 Angling Rd., East Pembroke, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
  • Saturday, March 29: Hoag Library- Albion, 134 S. Main St., Albion, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Schedule an appointment by going to RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS 1-800-733-2767.

“Red Cross Month is an important time to honor the mission of saving lives through giving blood,” said Hawley. “I encourage everyone who is able to take the time to give blood and make a lifesaving difference. Your generosity can provide hope and healing to patients in need.”

Girls Basketball: Elba Class D champs after 54-26 win over Filmore

By Howard B. Owens
elba girls basketball

The Elba Lancers Girls Basketball season remains perfect, with a 54-26 win over Filmore on Saturday to capture the Section V Class D championship.

Sydney Reilly scored a game-high 25 points to lead the Lancers to victory.

Brea Smith scored 14 points.

Photos by Debra Reilly.

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elba girls basketball
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elba girls basketball

Boys Basketball: Alexander Trojans go to Big House, come home with school's first basketball championship

By Staff Writer
alexander basketball

For the first time in program history, the Alexander Boys Basketball team won a Section V block, beating C1 #1 seed Geneseo 60-55 at Blue Cross Arena in Rochester.

Scoring for Alexander:

  • Dylan Pohl,  17 points (Tournament MVP)
  • Kingston Woods,  13 points (All-Tournament Team)
  • Austin Wakefield,  11 points (All-Tournament Team)
  • Jacob Brooks,  11 points (All-Tournament Team)

The Trojans are coached by Jalen Smith,  in his third year, and a former basketball standout with Batavia. He was a member of the 2013 team that vied for a state championship.

The season record for Alexander is 15-4, with one of those loses previously coming to Geneseeo in the second game of the season, 39-31.

The Trojans face York on Monday at 6:30 p.m. at Letchworth in a Class C consolidation game.

Photos by Melissa Brooks.
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alexander basketball
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alexander basketball

West Main Wine & Spirits expands with move into neighboring store space

By Howard B. Owens
TJ Woodward, Chris, West Main Wine & Spirits
T.J. Woodward, owner of West Main Wine & Spirits, and Chris Saraceni, store manager.
Photo by Howard Owens.

T.J. Woodward acquired West Main Wine & Spirits from Chris Blossom 2 1/2 years ago with an eye toward eventually moving into the retail space next door.

Now located at 343 West Main St., Batavia, the move has enabled Woodward to expand the shop's inventory and upgrade the store's appearance.

"We've added a lot of new products and expanded some of the lines," Woodward said on Saturday during the store's grand opening in the new location. "We've had an opportunity to grow, for sure, in a new space because it's two and a half or three times the size of the old one.

The move was slowed by red tape, Woodward said.

"It took forever because the state was really difficult to get everything lined up with the state as far as permits and then doing all the work," Woodward said. So, it took a lot longer than we thought, but finally, we got through all that paperwork."

Woodward owns the building, which was a key factor in his decision to purchase West Main Wine & Liquor.

"I wasn't necessarily looking to get into the liquor business as much as it was, I own the building, and Chris was looking to sell," Woodward said. "I thought it made sense to buy it. I knew that NAPA (auto parts) was eventually planning on moving out, so I figured it would be a good opportunity to take the liquor store and move it over."

Store hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays. The phone number is 585-344-2717.

Photos by Howard Owens

West Main Wine & Spirits
West Main Wine & Spirits

Workshop gets to the heart of the matter: facing one's mortality to more fully appreciate life

By Joanne Beck
dale goldstein

Most of us live consciously or unconsciously with the illusion that we’re going to live forever, as we push away the fact that this life is going to end sooner or later, Dale Goldstein says.

Even with aging bodies and minds, it can be difficult to accept that reality, yet living in denial means “we don’t realize how precious every moment is because we never know if it’s our last moment,” says Goldstein, director of the Heartwork Institute in Rochester.

“We don't value the mystery of why these branches are blowing outside my window. You know, we don't really appreciate the moment. Most of the time, we're living in the future. Okay, what do I have to do when I get this done? I'm looking forward to the football game on Saturday,” he said during an interview with The Batavian. “So when you really love something, you're really paying close attention to it. 

"Here’s a thought: if we paid close attention to everything, we would love everything, and we would live in a state of love and appreciation and gratitude," he said. "So I want people to appreciate their lives.”

Batavia First Presbyterian Church invites all to attend Goldstein’s workshop, “If I Had But One Year to Live.” He plans to take participants through a series of experiential exercises to find their own answers to the question, “If my life is getting cut short, in what ways might I change how I am living right now?”

Goldstein will help people explore what is truly meaningful in their lives, what is in the way of them getting to what they truly want, and how to move through those barriers, he said.

The workshop is free and runs from 9:30 a.m. to noon March 15 at the church, 300 E. Main St., Batavia.

“Human beings tend to not want to face our mortality, and because we avoid dealing with this existential issue, we miss much of our actual life in the moment,” he said. “There is a fear deep in our unconscious that prevents us from being fully present in our lives, so we don’t live completely, we don’t love completely, we don’t enjoy completely.

“We can't experience the depth and breadth of being a real human being," he said. "In this workshop, we will come to grips with this ultimate truth of our existence and realize that, knowing when that final moment will come. We need to live each moment fully so we have no regrets when we die.”

He suggests that folks bring a loved one with them to experience the workshop together if possible. Goldstein, who has a master's in social work, will provide guidance along the way as he prompts participants with “some very important questions,” which they will write down to ensure their privacy. The questions are somewhat deep, such as, do you feel fulfilled, and by how much in life? Do you feel alive? There will also be a bit of meditation.

“By facing death, you come to life in a new way,” he said. “And most importantly, for most people, actually, it really helps you get your priorities straight. What's really important is how much of your time you spend doing things that are just a waste of time.”

He didn’t want to give the whole workshop away but hinted that “something beautiful happens at the end.” After more than two dozen of these sessions, people haven’t felt it was a downer of any kind, but instead, “it’s really about seeing clearly what is important to you,” he said.

“It opens your heart to yourself and to life and to others. I call it heart work because it gets to the heart of the matter, and birth and death gets to the heart of the matter,” he said. “It’s beautiful, it really is. That’s why I’ve done it 26 times. It’s really a beautiful little workshop that has a punch to it.”

Who may be an ideal candidate for this workshop? Anyone who wants to enjoy life more, he said.

Goldstein has been doing what he calls heart work since 1980 and has 55 years of experience as a practicing therapist. He is also a teacher of personal-spiritual growth and a nationally known workshop facilitator. 

After recognizing the potential limitations of strictly one or the other—cognitive, spiritual, or meditative forms of therapy—he discovered the process of using a combination of tools to open the heart and mind.

For more information, call 585-343-0505 or go HERE 

Genesee County expands NY HELPS program to streamline hiring and fill vacancies

By Press Release

Press Release:

Genesee County is pleased to announce the continued expansion of the NY HELPS program, an initiative created to assist New York State agencies in filling vacancies across the state by streamlining the hiring process. The program has proven to be a successful tool for local agencies to fill vacancies, and its extension through June 30, 2026, ensures ongoing support for essential services.

Anita Cleveland, Genesee County Human Resources Director, emphasized the program’s local impact, "The NY HELPS Program – Local has been an invaluable tool for Genesee County and its municipalities. Genesee County has filled over 130 positions with qualified candidates through this initiative. With the program’s extension and expansion, Genesee County Human Resources continues to evaluate additional titles for inclusion."

Effective immediately through June 30, 2026, candidates hired for the identified positions will not be required to undergo Civil Service testing. Instead, they will be classified as non-competitive hires, significantly streamlining the hiring process and expanding opportunities for job seekers. 

Genesee County encourages interested applicants to explore these opportunities and take advantage of the simplified hiring process under NY HELPS. 

For more information on available positions and application procedures, visit www.geneseeny.gov/jobs or contact the Genesee County Human Resources Department at 585-815-7805.

Genesee Community College announces 7th annual Business Idea Pitch Competition

By Press Release

Press Release:

Every solid business venture starts with one thing - a pitch! Whether making a sale or convincing an investor, your business idea pitch has to be organized, well-thought out, powerful and convincing! Genesee Community College (GCC) is here to help get you prepared!

If you have a passion you would like to turn into a business, but you aren't sure if anyone else will think it's a good idea, consider participating in GCC's 7th Annual Business Idea Pitch Competition on Thursday, April 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in room T102 of the Conable Technology Building at Genesee Community College's Batavia Campus. 

The competition is free and open to the public and prizes of $100 for first place and $75 for second place will be awarded to the most outstanding competitors in the "most likely to succeed" and "most creative" categories. Pitches will be judged by local business leaders.

"A solid business idea pitch is essential for every startup. This competition offers participants a valuable opportunity to acquire the skills needed to structure, refine, and present a compelling and persuasive business pitch.," said Dr. Lina LaMattina, director of Business Programs at GCC.

To participate in this event, please register for our Business Idea Pitch Competition by emailing Dr. Lina LaMattina, GCC director of Business Programs at lmlamattina@genesee.edu no later than Friday, April 4.

Among the leading causes for a new business startup failure is a lack of basic business experience. In lieu of losing thousands of investment dollars, today's entrepreneurs have found another way to gain that experience before launching their startup - education. Genesee Community College offers degree, certificate and micro-credential programs in Entrepreneurship to prepare emerging business owners and investors for success.

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

Batavia Downs announces exciting spring lineup of events and promotions, tickets now on sale

By Press Release

Press Release:

Batavia Downs President & CEO Byron Brown, today announced the lineup for events taking place onsite alongside the 3 Triple Crown Races this spring as well as upcoming concerts.

The Kentucky Derby Gala returns on the first Saturday in May – May 3. Cost is $149 per person and includes Buffet Dinner, Open Bar, a $20 Wager on the Derby, Derby Glass, Derby T-shirt, $60 in Free Play and bourbon sampling from Woodford Reserve, the official Bourbon of the Kentucky Derby.

Hotel specials are available on that day – The special is $469 and includes 2 entries to the party and a hotel room that evening.  Be sure to visit the Hotel Deals page at BataviaDownsGaming.com to book.

“Our Triple Crown events continue to increase in popularity,” said Brown. “Our events calendar is jam-packed.  With more events than ever before we are excited to welcome guests here for these outstanding experiences.”

On that same day, the Park Place Room will be host to the Superfecta Special – which includes a $25 Free Play, $5 Wager on the Derby, Derby Program, and a 1/2 BBQ Chicken Lunch. The cost is $35 per person and attendees can pay at the door.

On Preakness Stakes Day - Saturday, May 17, the 4th Annual Tacos and Tequila event sponsored by Teremana takes place inside the Park Place Room. The cost is $35 and includes Tequila Sampling from multiple vendors, a Taco Bar, $20 in Free Play, a $5 wager on the Preakness Stakes, and a gift to take home. Early Bird Tickets will be available for $30 online.

The final jewel of the Triple Crown is the Belmont Stakes, this year it is once again in Saratoga, on Saturday, June 7. That same day inside Park Place is the Bourbon and Whiskey Fest presented by Jack Daniel’s. Cost is $35 and includes Bourbon and Whiskey Sampling, Grazing Stations, $20 in Free Play and a $5 wager on the Belmont Stakes. Early Bird Tickets will be available for $30 online.

Those wishing to book the hotel specials can find direct links to do so on the hotel deals page on the Batavia Downs website at https://www.bataviadownsgaming.com/hotel-deals/.

If you are unable to make it to Batavia Downs on any of the Triple Crown race dates, be sure to visit our OTB Branches or EZ Bet locations – a list can be found at: https://www.westernotb.com/locations/. Guests can also watch wager and win online at BataviaBets.com.

Prior to the Triple Crown, other Spring events announced by Batavia Downs include:

The 2nd Handicapping Contest of 2025 will take place on Wood Memorial Day, Saturday, April 5 in the Batavia Downs Clubhouse. For a $20 Entry, guests will enter into a contest where they will pick horses from Aqueduct and Keeneland. The top prize will take home 50% of the entry monies up to $2,000. Details will be posted on the Batavia Downs Facebook page soon.

Also on Saturday, April 5 the Niagara Wine Trail hosts their annual “Vino at the Casino” event inside Park Place. General Admission Tickets are $40 presale and include tasting from 2-5pm, a souvenir wine glass, $25 fee play from Batavia Downs and a discount on a food purchase that day at Batavia Downs.

For tickets and details, guests can check out: https://niagarawinetrail.org/vino-casino/.

On Friday, April 18, the Batavia Downs Bar Hop welcomes guests in for a beer crawl inside the gaming facility. Tickets are just $25 and you get $10 back in Free Play along with a drink ticket for each of Batavia Downs’ 4 bars that are open that day. Attendees will be able to get a drink while they enjoy live music and take in the Free Nerds Gone Wild Concert that will be taking place that evening inside Park Place.

On Monday, April 21, Batavia Downs holds their annual Dyngus Day Celebration inside of Park Place with music from Fritz’s Polka Band. This FREE event runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Polish Platter specials will be available at the Homestretch Grill.

KISS THIS returns to Batavia Downs on Saturday, April 26! Western New York’s Premier Tribute to KISS brings all of theatrics and bombast of a classic KISS show to their performance. Tickets are $15 and attendees receive $10 in Free Play on the day of the show. This performance is standing room only.

Tickets for these events are available at www.BataviaConcerts.com or at the Lucky Treasures Gift Shop in the Lobby.

Tickets are also on sale on BataviaConcerts.com for:  Music of the Stars, Al Green & Marvin Gaye Tribute and the entire Rockin’ The Downs Summer Concert Series.

Batavia VA hosts My HealtheVet sign-in assistance seminar for veterans

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) My HealtheVet online patient portal allows Veterans to access their medical records, refill prescriptions, manage appointments, communicate with their healthcare team, and track their health information all in one place; essentially acting as their personal health record within the VA system.

The sign-in to access to the online portal has moved to a simpler, more modern sign-in experience with two secure sign-in account options: Login.gov and ID.me.

Veterans are no longer able to sign in to VA.gov, VA mobile apps, or other VA online services with a My HealtheVet user ID and password.

To assist Veterans who have not set up a Login.gov or ID.me, the VA Western New York Healthcare System (VAWNYHS) Virtual Health Resource Center (VHRC) team is hosting a My HealtheVet sign-in assistance seminar at the Batavia VA.

The My HealtheVet sign-in assistance seminar will take place on Thursday, March 13, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Batavia VA, located at 222 Richmond Ave, Batavia. The seminar will be held in the first-floor lobby near Telehealth, Room 144.

Veterans should bring two forms of ID, A state issued driver’s license OR non-driver’s license and one of the following:

  • Social Security card
  • Voter registration card
  • DD214

For more information on the My HealtheVet log in change, Veterans can call the Virtual Health Resource Center at 716-862-7886, Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or e-mail VHAWNYVHRC@va.gov

Sponsored Post: New Listings from Reliant Real Estate! We can help change your housing situation

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Reliant Real Estate

NEW! Click here to view 6544 Miller Road Elba. 32 YOUNG Ranch home on quiet rural road situated on 4.2 acres in Elba School District! This is a one owner home ready for new owners to make it their own. Updated throughout the years this home is in move in condition with spacious first floor plan. Kitchen has plenty of cupboards and good sized pantry closet and 1/2 bath for your guests upon entry. Living/dining room is large and brite with pretty hardwood floors and cozy wood stove with hearth to take the chill off! There are also two good sized bedrooms and full bath -everything all within reach on main floor! Attached two car garage leads to extra large partially finished full basement that offers so much extra space to putter around or fully finish off for extra spread out room if wanted! The yard is just waiting for you and SPRING to arrive and enjoy! 

NEW! Click here to view West Main Street Road, Batavia (Town). SHOVEL READY!! This property is ready for you to hit the ground running when you are READY TO BUILD as current owner has DONE ALL THE DETAIL WORK already!!Site work completed with survey, perc test/wastewater treatment plan, building plan, building permit AND housing blueprints should you want!! This 1+ acre lot is conveniently located to all major routes and two thruway exits not to mention shopping restaurants and more-ALSO located in Pembroke School System as an added bonus!!

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Top Items on Batavia's List

NOW HIRING seasonal agribusiness positions. CDL A & B Drivers to deliver bulk crop nutrients. Potential long-term opportunities. Great for retirees! GENERAL LABOR positions. Daily variety of indoor/outdoor responsibilities. Loader experience a plus. SIGN-ON BONUS and plenty of OT during spring/summer months. Apply in person at: 8610 Route 237, Stafford, NY www.cecrocker.com
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