Registration is now available for kindergarten and prekindergarten students in the Byron-Bergen School District.
The District plans to once again offer a half-day universal prekindergarten (UPK) program at the Byron-Bergen Elementary School. The UPK program is focused on socialization, learning through play, and self-exploration. Children learn through a hands-on learning environment that includes activities, learning centers, concrete materials, and manipulatives.
Students learn through a nurturing environment that is enriching, challenging, and developmentally appropriate.
Students must turn four years of age by December 1, 2025 to be eligible for the program. If you have a child eligible and are interested in having them attend the Byron-Bergen UPK program, please complete this Google form which is also available on the Student Registration page of the Byron-Bergen website.
The form requires the student’s name, parents’ name, address, phone number, email address, and date of birth. This electronic Google form is due by Monday, February 24. Parents who have already contacted the Elementary School by phone will still need to complete the form. If you are having difficulty completing the form, please call the Elementary School office for support.
Please note that if the District receives more applications than the allowed capacity, a lottery will be held to select students. This year's lottery drawing will be held on February 28, via Zoom.
Student-specific lottery numbers and the Zoom link will be shared with everyone who completes the form before the February 24 deadline. Once the lottery is complete, the families of selected children will need to complete the full registration packet, which can be found on the Byron-Bergen website and submit it to the Elementary School Office.
Children who will be five years of age, on or before December 1, 2025 are eligible for entrance to Kindergarten in September of 2025. New families in the school district should notify the school if they have a child who will enter Kindergarten in September of 2025. Parents may contact the Byron-Bergen Elementary School Office by calling 494-1220, ext. 1301. Information may also be sent to the Byron-Bergen Elementary School, 6971 West Bergen Road, Bergen.
Please send all information for kindergarten screening by June 1, 2025. All children registered for kindergarten will be scheduled for a screening appointment this summer. The results of this screening will be used to plan for the 2025-2026 kindergarten program.
The following items are necessary to complete the registration process: the child’s birth certificate; certificate of immunization; proof of residency; and completed registration packet.
Additional information and registration packets are available at http://www.bbschools.org/StudentRegistration.aspx.
The HomeCare & Hospice Foundation has unveiled its 2025 event lineup, offering engaging activities throughout Allegany, Cattaraugus, Genesee, and Wyoming counties.
“We’ve thoughtfully planned events to cater to both the ‘north’ and ‘south’ regions, with many centered in the Olean and Batavia areas,” said Melissa Sullivan, CEO of Total Senior Care and HomeCare & Hospice.
The year kicks off on February 23 with the enchanting Princess Party, tentatively planned at Bartlett Country Club in Olean. Little ones can enjoy a royal day filled with nail and hair makeovers, princess dance lessons, crown crafting, and a delightful lunch fit for royalty. Next, bring home a touch of spring with the Hospice Bouquet Sale in early March, offering beautiful flower arrangements to brighten your home while supporting compassionate care.
New to the lineup, the Superhero Bash on Sunday, March 30 at Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia promises action-packed fun for kids, including cape and shield crafting, obstacle courses, and superhero freeze dance, with snacks to keep young heroes energized.
May features two impactful events: the Hospice Hope Walk, Ride, Run Together at Lincoln Park in Olean on May 21, where participants of all ages can honor loved ones and support hospice care; and the Senior Health & Wellness Fair on May 28 at Total Senior Care in Olean, offering free health screenings, a blood drive, and more.
Golf enthusiasts can tee off for a cause at the inaugural Hospice Golf Classic on June 24 at Terry Hills in Batavia, while craft lovers can enjoy the Autumn Artisan Market & Craft Show on October 4 at Total Senior Care in Olean.
Tailgate Thursday, a fan-favorite event, returns on October 9 at Batavia Downs, combining wings, football fun, and games to support hospice care. The year concludes with the cherished Tree of Life Celebrations in November and December, held in both Batavia and Olean. These ceremonies honor and remember loved ones through candlelight, music, and personalized ornaments placed on a holiday tree.
“The HomeCare & Hospice Foundation is committed to supporting the vital work of HomeCare & Hospice through philanthropy and community engagement,” said Melissa Sullivan. “We’re excited to bring these events to life and look forward to connecting with our communities.”
The Foundation also offers businesses the opportunity to join the Hospice Heroes Program, gaining valuable exposure while making a meaningful impact through sponsorships or in-kind support.
For event details, sponsorship opportunities, or registration forms, visit www.homecare-hospice.org or call 716-372-2106. Mark your calendars and join us for a year filled with fun and purpose!
Along with outstanding attendance at local workforce programs, our Buffalo Bills are heading back to the playoffs and the Pro Bowl voters agree with me that Josh Allen is the best quarterback in the NFL.
Similar to our workforce programs, the Buffalo Bills prioritize player development, recognizing that individual growth is key to program success. In preparing the next generation of workforce candidates, we are also strengthening our communities.
Chris Suozzi
Last year, we welcomed over 4,300 students to workforce development programs including GLOW With Your Hands Manufacturing and Healthcare, Tech Wars, youth apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships, and other programs that have introduced careers and skills available to our local youth.
As a result of these programs and instruction, thousands of our students are now well-informed and educated about the opportunities available to them as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
By engaging in hands-on training and real-world experiences, these students gained valuable skills and information that make them work-ready and prepared for the high-demand careers in Genesee County and across our region.
If you were one of our 4,300 active students, I want you to celebrate - and then get back to what makes you the next successful professional to graduate from these programs.
For parents, whether your student participated in these programs or not, I encourage you to make it your New Year’s resolution to get involved. Keep your child engaged in programs they are participating in. Let them know there are programs and alternative career paths that do not require a four-year college degree.
Our New Year’s Resolutions are meant to push us out of our comfort zones. Attending a workforce development event may feel like it is, but I can promise you that you will feel welcome and learn something new outside of the traditional classroom.
Our partners offer programs for every type of student, regardless of how far along you’ve gone in your workforce journey; from introductory programs like GLOW With Your Hands to apprenticeship pathways that put you on a fast track to a local career through Genesee Valley BOCES.
If you’re interested, there’s still time to enroll in one of our workforce development programs, which successfully link students to in-demand careers right out of school. Our previous graduates are now on track to make $1 million in their first 12 years after graduation!
Our current BOCES students will soon be enrolled in the Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship. They eagerly waiting to learn which companies they will be matched up with for junior year job shadows or senior year co-ops.
In an NFL draft-style format, students will be featured as first-round draft picks celebrating with their companies as they embark on a professional career entering the ranks as a top prospect.
This year’s signing day will be held at Genesee Community College on January 30. The good news is there is still time to sign up for additional opportunities, even if you aren’t enrolled at BOCES! We can put you on a fast track with a local company in a career that allows you to grow and immediate placement after graduation, starting your career debt-free and workforce ready.
To learn more or sign up for the Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program or any other local workforce opportunities, contact me at 585-343-4866 or csuozzi@gcedc.com or www.gcedc.com/careerchecklist.
Go Bills!
Chris Suozzi is the Vice President of Business &Workforce Development at the Genesee County Economic Development Center.
Two projects in the City of Batavia submitted to the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) are projected to generate over $7 million in local benefits.
The GCEDC board of directors will consider initial resolutions for Graham Corporation’s expansion project and 202 Oak St, LLC’s hotel renovation at its January 16 meeting.
Graham Corporation is proposing to construct a new radiographic testing building at their manufacturing facility. The $3.3 million investment will add to an existing manufacturing building.
Graham Corporation is requesting a sales tax exemption estimated at $120,000 and a property tax abatement estimated at $20,934 based on the incremental increase in assessed value generated by the expansion. The project is estimated to generate $1.2 million in local fiscal impacts, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $16 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.
202 Oak St, LLC is proposing to renovate the former Super 8 hotel’s 54 units. The $2.5 million investment would create 11.5 new full-time equivalent positions.
202 Oak St, LLC is requesting a sales tax exemption estimated at $104,163, a property tax abatement estimated at $257,823 based on the incremental increase in assessed value generated by the project, and a mortgage tax exemption estimated at $19,000. The project is estimated to generate $5.8 million in local fiscal impacts, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $20 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.
In addition, the project is estimated to generate over $40,000 annually in bed tax revenue for the county once the renovated hotel is ramped up.
The GCEDC board meeting will be on Thursday, January 16 at 4 p.m. at the MedTech Center’s Innovation Zone, 99 MedTech Drive, Batavia.
Meeting materials and links to a live stream/on-demand recording of the meeting are available at www.gcedc.com.
A site on the edge of Oatka Creek in Le Roy that has served as a hat factory, bank and law offices, a state senator’s home and most recently the painstakingly revamped Farmer’s Creekside Tavern and Inn will be shutting its doors for good, the owners announced Wednesday.
“After seven wonderful years, we've made the very difficult decision to permanently close the doors of Farmer's Creekside Tavern & Inn. It has been an incredible journey filled with gratitude for the privilege of serving the Le Roy community and surrounding areas,” an online post stated. “This decision was not made lightly and came after much review, thought, and consideration. However, due to challenges currently impacting the restaurant industry and small businesses, we feel it is the right decision.
“We are so grateful for the love and support vou've shared with us throughout this journey - from the initial restoration of the over 200-year-old beautiful building to the landmark it remains today.”
That restoration was a 10-year labor of love after fire destroyed much of the historic building in 2004 and Bill Farmer and his son purchased the property in 2007. The charming stone, multi-level restaurant, with outdoor patio and seasonal igloo dining along the water, opened in July 2017.
“Your trust and loyalty have been the foundation of everything we've built, and we'll forever appreciate the moments we've shared,” the post states. “As we close, we want to give a heartfelt thank you to every guest, supporter, and team member who made these seven years unforgettable. Thank you for being a part of this venture and for your unwavering support.
“Though it's the closure of our much-loved restaurant and inn, the memories will be with us forever.”
Those of you that have gift cards are asked to please contact gm@farmerscreekside.com,and for those of you that have dinner, hotel, or igloo reservations, someone will be reaching out to you directly.
Oakfield-Alabama beat Byron-Bergen in Girls Basketball on Tuesday 50-46.
For the Hornets:
Alea Groff, 16 points, 3 steals
Allie Williams, 12 points, 12 rebounds, 3 blocks
Allison Harkness, 10 points, 6 rebounds 2 blocks
Alexa Clark, 5 points, 13 reb
Jess Sosnowksi, 4 points
Piper Hyde, 2 points, 6 assists
For the Bees:
Janessa Amesbury. 22 points
Olivia Senf, 11 points
Riley Shallenverger, 8 points
"A great high school basketball game between two very good teams playing at a high level," said OA Coach Jeff Schlagenhauf. "Rick (Krzewinski) always has his teams ready to play. They are so well-coached. It was a great win for our kids against a very good basketball team.
"Our defense really stepped up in the fourth quarter," he added. "We got some great contributions from Alexa Clark and Allison Harkness and Alea Groff. Allie Williams had a huge offensive fourth quarter for us."
Notre Dame improved to 7-4 on Tuesday with a 53-33 win over Kendall in Girls Basketball.
Sofia Falleti led the Irish with a 30-point and 15-rebound double-double while adding four steals. Also contributing was Shirley Thompson with 9 points and 7 rebounds and Lucia Fiorentino with 4 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 steals.
“This was a good bounce-back game for us. Everyone contributed both on offense and defense tonight. The team really worked well against a solid Kendall defense,” said Coach Vinny Falleti
During the first city meeting of the New Year, Manager Rachael Tabelski threw down a gauntlet of sorts about the impending budget before the usual departmental requests and line-by-line reviews by City Council.
“We’re looking to lower the rate by 50 cents,” she said at this week’s council meeting, clarifying that it’s 50 cents per $1,000 assessed value.
If council follows through with that recommendation, with no changes to property assessments, the tax rate would go from $8.96 to $8.46 per $1,000 assessed value, or $846 a year. That would be a $50 yearly decrease from the current tax rate at the same property valuation.
There are five budget sessions lined up before council is to adopt a final version, and a public hearing will be scheduled for questions and comments from city residents.
City leaders agreed to alter the meeting schedule so that when there are both council and budget meetings on the same dates, the council meeting will be at 5 p.m., followed by a budget session at 6 p.m.
The schedule is as follows:
City Council meeting at 5 p.m., followed by budget revenue discussion at 6 p.m. Jan. 27
Budget work session at 6 p.m. Feb. 4 to discuss fire, general government and administrative
Budget work session at 6 p.m. Feb. 6 to discuss police and DPW
City Council at 5 p.m., followed by budget work session at 6 p.m. Feb. 10 to discuss water and wastewater
Once again the question of residency — and of fairness — in the city of Batavia has come up as another employee has requested a waiver from the municipality’s code requiring that people in certain positions live in city bounds.
This issue has affected several police, fire, inspection, and administrative management positions over the years.
File Photo of Eugene Jankowski Jr.
Perhaps city leaders need to consider widening the circle of that residence boundary, City Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. says.
“I mean, if the person shows up to work on time, why would we tell them where they have to live? If they’re responsible and they’ve got to drive an hour, that’s their life. That’s what they choose to do. People drive,” Jankowski said during this week’s council meeting while reviewing the latest request. “So we address it as any other employee. If they’re late for work and we gotta address it, that’s a different story. I have no problem with living wherever you want, within a reasonable distance. It’s something we should be considering, I think we are. So we need to move that forward and get it figured out.”
The dilemma this time is that city police officer Matthew Smith said that he is unable to relocate from his current home outside of the city because “given the very high interest rates and market price for housing at this time, it would be a financial burden on my wife and I to try and make a move.” His wife also received a promotion recently, which requires her to travel to other locations, and their current residence is more conducive to that, Smith said in a letter to Chief Shawn Heubusch.
Heubusch vouched for his officer’s work ethic and for being “very, very dedicated” to the job since being employed with the city police department in July of 2023. He has shown nothing but “an exemplary work history” and “is always available when called for extra details,” Heubusch said in his official request from City Manager Rachael Tabelski.
Batavia Municipal Code section 22-9 (1) requires residency for current police officers. The department has been working on a plan for how to deal with these situations, which Heubusch said have been more frequent issues as candidates have taken the civil service exam for vacancies.
“As we discussed in November, the city's department has been working on a residency plan to better meet the city's hiring needs that will be presented to council in the future,” Tabelski said.
Jankowski suggested that maybe the city could offer incentives to prospective employees to move here “instead of demanding they do based on a residency requirement.”
“Keeping in mind we just have to be a little more flexible and understanding of this,” he said.
Another whole issue, beyond the difficulty of uprooting one’s life and moving and the higher interest rates and housing costs, is that there are fewer homes available, officials said. Assistant City Manager Erik Fix said that he went online to Nothnagle Realty and found only 10 to 12 houses for sale in the city at the time.
Tabelski was optimistic about projects in the works.
File Photo of Rachael Tabelski, center, and Erik Fix, left.
“Hopefully, through all the initiatives we have in single-family housing at North Pointe Drive, we’ll be able to add some residents to the tax base and give those employees that want to be in the city a better option to be here.”
During a business meeting that followed, council approved the residency waiver for Smith.
Latoya Denise Jackson, 39, of State Street, is charged with resisting arrest, two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, driving with a suspended v vehicle registration, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, and driving without insurance. Jackson was stopped at 4:48 a.m. on Washington Avenue, Batavia, by Deputy Richard Flores. Jackson was allegedly found in possession of two different controlled substances, and she resisted arrest. He was released on an appearance ticket.
Rachelle Nicole Laney, 38, of River Road Xing, Pavilion, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd, driving too slow, and equipment violation. Laney was stopped at 11:48 p.m. on Dec. 31 on Roanoke Road, Stafford, by Deputy Andrew Mullen. She was issued appearance tickets.
Kenneth Richard Sheard, 45, of South Lake Road, Bergen, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and harassment. Sheard is accused of striking a person under the age of 17 at 8:37 p.m. on Jan. 1 at a location on South Lake Road, Bergen. Sheard was held pending arraignment.
David Ryan Paddock, 25, of Myrtle Street, Le Roy, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, unregistered vehicle, speed not reasonable and prudent, and moving from lane unsafely. Paddock was reportedly involved in a property damage accident at 7:18 p.m. on Dec. 21 at a location on Warsaw Road, Le Roy and charged following an investigation by Deputy Stephen Smith. Paddock was issued traffic tickets.
Vincent James Auguliaro, 34, of Maple Street, Corfu, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and speeding. Auguliaro was stopped at 12:21 a.m. on Jan. 3 on West Main Street, Corfu, by Deputy Stephen Smith. Auguliaro was issued traffic tickets.
Tyler James Bull, 22, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Bull is accused of violating an order of protection by calling another person 142 times. He was arrested at the Genesee County Jail and released back into jail custody.
Nicholas Adam Pietrzykowski, 48, of East Road, Wyoming, is charged with felony DWI, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle, and moving from lane unsafely. Pietrzykowski is accused of being involved in a property damage accident at 2:50 p.m. on Jan. 5 on Galloway Road and fleeing into the woods. He was taken into custody by Deputy James Stack and K-9 Rayzor. He was held pending arraignment.
Nicholas Dean Kersch, 29, of Wyoming Street, Warsaw, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, speeding, and moving from lane unsafely. Kersch was stopped at 2:21 a.m. on Jan. 5 on Lake Street, Le Roy by Deputy Zachary Hoy. Kersch was issued traffic tickets.
Hugh Michael Rohrer, 22, of Brandford Place, Buffalo, is charged with DWI, driving left of the pavement, and moving from lane unsafely. Rohrer was reportedly involved in a two-vehicle accident at 5:56 a.m. on Jan. 1 on Alleghany Road, Alabama and was charged following an investigation by Deputy Jacob Kipler.
Adrian Joseph Aughenbaugh, 27, of Columbia Avenue, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Aughenbaugh was reportedly a passenger in a vehicle stopped at 12:41 a.m. on Jan. 6 on Buffalo Road, Bergen. A search allegedly located a controlled substance. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.
Jared Ryan Burns, no age provided, no residence provided, is charged with obstruction governmental administration 2nd, trespass, and disorderly conduct. Burns is accused of remaining at the Department of Social Services on East Main Street Road, Batavia, at 11:43 a.m. on Dec. 30. Burns was allegedly uncooperative and attempted to prevent deputies from removing him. He was jailed pending arraignment.
Travis David Gassman, 30, of Perry Road, Pavilion, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and moving from lane unsafely. Gassman was stopped at 6:38 p.m. on Jan. 11 on Perry Road, Pavilion, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. He was issued traffic tickets.
William Edward Farnsworth, 40, of Eagle Harbor Road, Barre, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, speeding, and unlicensed driver. Farnsworth was arrested on Jan. 10. He was accused of possessing cocaine during a traffic stop by Deputy Zachary Hoy at 3:24 p.m. on March 30 on Buffalo Road, Bergen. He was issued an appearance ticket.
Feyza Gabriel Osmacikli, no age provided, of Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Osmacikli is accused of possessing a narcotic during a traffic stop by Deputy Jeremiah Gechell at 10:20 p.m. on Jan. 4 on Oak Street, Batavia. Osmacikli was released on an appearance ticket.
Jose Reyes Ramirez-Perez, 29, of Malone, is charged with DWI, refusal to take a breath test, speeding, and drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle. Ramirez-Perez was stopped at 2:05 a.m. on Jan. 12 on West Main Street, Batavia, by Deputy Soren Calderon. He was issued traffic tickets.
Claudie Vern Goodenow, Jr., 42, of Prospect Street, Attica, is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation with five or more suspensions, criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, lights not to standards, and no inspection sticker. Goodenow was stopped at 2:29 a.m. on Jan. 10 on Broadway Road, Bethany, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Goodenow was issued an appearance ticket.
Jessica Lynn Goodenow, 43, of Prospect Street, Attica, is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Goodenow was reportedly a passenger in a vehicle stopped at 2:29 a.m. on Jan. 10 on Broadway Road, Bethany. A search allegedly located controlled substances in the vehicle. Goodenow was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.
Salvatore Michael Schwable, 27, of Oakfield, is charged with possession of a forged instrument 1st and two counts of petit larceny. Schwable is accused of using counterfeit currency to purchase merchandise from a gas station on South Main Street, Oakfield at 10:58 p.m. on Nov. 28. He was arrested Jan. 13 following an investigation by Deputy Soren Calderon. He was held pending arraignment.
Warren Thomas Cotton, 47, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with promoting prison contraband 2nd. Cotton is accused of possessing homemade alcohol under the bunk of his bed at the Genesee County Jail at 7 a.m. on Jan. 14. He was issued an appearance ticket.
Cori L Cleland, 39, of Perry, is charged with DWAI drugs. Cleland was arrested Jan. 1 in connection with a vehicle accident reported in Septermber. She was issued an appearance ticket.
Davor E. Hodgson-Aguilar, 36, of Long Beach, was arrested on Jan. 8 on a warrant. Hodgson-Aguilar was initially charged with petit larceny in October of 2023. The warrant was issued for alleged failure to appear in court. He was arraigned in City Court and released.
Julie L. Dutton, 29, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Dutton was allegedly involved in a fight on Jan. 2 where she grabbed and shoved another person. She was issued an appearance ticket.
Antwoine D. Lara, 28, of Endicott, was arrested on Jan. 5 as a fugitive from justice. Lara was taken into custody when Batavia PD responded to an incident on Liberty Street. During the investigations, police determined there was a warrant for her arrest issued in Pennsylvania. She was jailed pending extradition.
Zachary R. Whitehead, 31, of Batavia, is charged with criminal impersonation and multiple traffic violations. Whitehead was stopped by Batavia PD on Oct. 8 and allegedly provided officers with another person's name. He was arrested Jan. 5 and issued an appearance ticket.
Brant G. Matthews, 30, of Greece, was arrested on Jan. 3, on a warrant. The warrant stems from a traffic stop on Jan. 18, 2024. He was allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance. He was arraigned in City Court and released.
Hunter M. Court, 25, of Alexander, is charged with DWI. Court was stopped on Dec. 24 on Court Street. He was issued traffic tickets.
Maresa A. Lodowski, 20, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Lodowski is accused of shoplifting from Dollar General on Dec. 29. She was issued an appearance ticket.
Confirmation candidates, along with their families and sponsors, pledged their collective commitments to their Confirmation journey at St Joseph’s Church at 10 a.m. Mass on January 12.
Thank you to Father Pat O’Keefe for his support, who presided at the Mass and offered spiritual guidance.
May God bless our candidates as they continue their faith journey.
As 2025 has run in the front door, it’s worth taking a look atwhere last year went and what’s happened throughout Genesee County in the world of business, people, construction projects and events during 2024 and that are continuing into this New Year.
The Spa at Artemis, a longtime beauty salon, abruptly closed its doors on Downtown Batavia’s Main Street. Still, not long after business owner Kate Willson of Meraki Beauty announced in April that she was going to transform the space as her own, and she opened The Beauty Lounge in July with a fun boutique in front and pampering spa services in the back half. She also accommodated customers that were holding gift certificates from the prior beauty salon by honoring them at a discount.
File Photo of the opening of Healthy Living Center and GLOW YMCA in downtown Batavia. Photo by Howard Owens
Across the street, GLOW YMCA kept its doors open while an entirely new construction project went upward alongside it, creating a wall of windows along Main Street and a Healthy Living Center that merged Rochester Regional Health United Memorial Medical Center and YMCA programs into two floors of wellness. Healthy Living opened toward the end of December, and the YMCA opened for physical fitness and child care services on Jan. 2.
File Photo of Assistant City Manager Erik Fix at one of the new entrances at Batavia City Centre. Photo by Howard Owens
Over at Batavia City Centre, yet more construction has taken hold of the former mall, removing the concourse stage and old silo-type entrances and putting in more contemporary-looking entryways with more windows and light. Another new business opened at the Centre, Renee Marie Aesthetics and Wellness, and more are to follow with the purchase of properties by Tyler Crawford, with plans for an indoor golf facility, andGuillermo Leon, with plans for Euphoria bar and lounge.
Buckets have been removed, except for portions of Main Street 56 Theater, which has been in the throes of negotiations with the city over back rent owed from 2021, when the theater fell behind due to pandemic shutdowns and the inability to open and draw any revenue. Batavia Players members Patrick Burk and Jo Coburn have said that the backstage green room has had issues with leaking water, and the Players hope the situation can be worked out as they are trying to work out a payment plan.
File Photo of Bonnie Woodward and Karie Credi in front of the future Shush Wine Bar on Jackson Street in downtown Batavia. Photo by Joanne Beck
Down on Jackson Street, a new Shush Wine Bar — the unofficial name for now — is to open in early 2025 at the former Gilliana’s Restaurant, across the street from where Save-A-Lot closed its doors, leaving a gap for a downtown grocery store and a sign with the words “Stay Tuned” in the glass doors as a tease that something may be coming in the future. A call to Victor Gautieri, property owner and landlord to the former grocery tenant, for comment did not get a response.
At the corner of Jackson and Main streets, the House of Bounce reopened after moving from the east side on Harvester Avenue, filling two floors of a void left by the Next Level Fitness when it closed in 2019 after 10 years.
With goals to improve the east side business climate, revitalize a deteriorating Harvester Center in need of rehab and renovation and increase the city’s tax base, Tabelski recommended — and City Council agreed to — a Restore NY grant application for up to $1 million.
“The Harvester Campus project qualifies for Restore NY funding for an extensive demolition project,” Tabelski said in a memo to council. “The owners of the Harvester Campus are looking to strategically demolish six buildings at the campus and commit to redeveloping the remaining buildings into a multi-use campus similar to Larkinville in Buffalo.
File Photo of Matt Hlushak and his children at CleanHit Services at Harvester Center. Photo by Joanne Beck
Meanwhile, a couple of new businesses, including CleanHit Services and Synapse Artistry Tattoo, have moved into the Harvester Center.
Continuing east, Tim Call sold his longtime Empire Tractor business in Stafford, but is remaining involved as an employee, which was welcome news for customers. James Pontillo faced some contention with the Stafford Town Board over an unresolved Odd Fellows Hall.
Back in downtown Batavia, Derek Geib bought and opened up O’Lacy’s in a similar Irish pub fashion, Audrey’s Bakery opened inside of GO ART! on East Main Street, and projects have begun at the former Batavia Showtime Theater — to turn it into a vampy live performance venue — and at the nicknamed Carr’s Reborn site at Main and Jackson streets, turning the former grand department store into market-rate apartments.
By September, both municipalities drafted a new wastewater agreement, and it was believed that HP Hood would be able to proceed with its project; however, a Hood official set the record straight by stating that the project was not going to happen in Batavia due to the delay, and it would be moving that particular project elsewhere.
The new location is part of the GCEDC-created industrial park, Apple Tree Acres, which already includes Liberty Pumps, Craft Cannery), All Season Party Tent Rentals, GE Renewable Energy, Insurance Auto Auctions, and Leonard Bus Sales.
Mark Sen. Chuck Schumer’s words, he promised in August 2024 that a year from then, there would be “hundreds" of local workers employed at the Edwards Vacuum factory that was celebrated at the time.
“What makes us so happy about this project is J-O-B-S," said Sen. Charles Schumer at the groundbreaking for Edwards Vacuum in the town of Alabama. "Jobs, right here. In just over a year, hundreds of local workers will be employed at this factory behind me, where they will build some of the most sophisticated, cutting-edge equipment for the semiconductor industry, not just in New York and not just in America, but in the world. This will be one of the world-class plants right here in Genesee County."
The clock has begun ticking.
As for the promises of Plug Power, that project has apparently been stalled locally.
Plug Power has preliminary approval for a $1.6 billion loan from the DOE to help it build more fuel plants. The company is aiming to become the nation's first vertically integrated green hydrogen producer, providing customers with fuel, products, and support.
Chris Suozzi, VP for business and workforce development at the Genesee County Economic Development Center, reportedly told a Washington, D.C.-based commercial real estate firm that Plug Power's STAMP project is on hold.
Asked to authenticate the quote, Suozzi said, "No comment."
According to Heatmap, Suozzi spoke to PRP Real Estate Management. The firm recorded the phone call.
“They’re not ready to go," Suozzi reportedly said. "They’re on pause. We don’t know what’s going to happen with them at this point.”
File Photo of Paul Guglielmo at the podium during expansion announcement. Photo by Howard Owens.
On the outskirts of the county, eastward toward Bergen, there’s been growth at Appletree with grants awarded and winning a Grow NY competition, enabling Craft Cannery to expand.
The proposed $1.465 million project enables Craft Cannery to expand operations at Apple Tree Acres by adding 4,000 sq. ft. to its existing 5,000 sq. foot facility. The USDA-certified contract manufacturer provides dozens of customers with the capacity to ramp up the production of sauces, dressings, marinades, and other foods, produce small-batch foods, and pilot unique recipes for commercialization.
The expansion was said to create four new full-time jobs and retain six full-time positions. Craft Cannery also won a $500,000 grant at the 2022 Grow-NY Global Food and Agribusiness Competition that supports the expansion that was announced in April.
And westward in Pembroke, all sorts of developments-in-progress have broken out, including at the Thruway travel plaza, the Nexgistics distribution warehouse and an apartment complex.
Who were the most-notables of 2024?
Tom Sanfratello
Claiming the most honorable, by far, goes to the late Tom Sanfratello, a hero who died tragically in the call of duty on March 10 at Batavia Downs. Named Officer of the Year by his own Genesee County Sheriff’s Office,Sanfratello has most rightfully been talked about, memorialized and remembered as a great officer, friend, family member and an all-around good person.
Next up, perhaps more controversial, is Byron Brown, the new chief executive officer of Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. at Batavia Downs.
Byron Brown
No wallflower, Brown has been ever-present at meetings and events, announcements and in related news articles since the beginning of his term in October.
The city of Batavia lost a walking encyclopedia of facts when City Historian Larry Barnes died on June 21, 2024.
Larry Barnes
The position wasn’t just a job to Barnes, especially since he wasn’t even paid for most of his time there. He had a genuine passion for research and knowledge about all things Batavia.
The gauntlet was passed from longtime Sheriff William Sheron to Joseph Graff after Sheron announced he was retiring from the post at the end of 2024, and Graff was elected.
Well-known Batavia Pastor Marty Macdonald made the news after he was accused of sexual abuse by his family’s former babysitter, Melissa Hobson, for several years as a young girl. He denied the allegations through an attorney representing him and City Church. He had stepped down as senior pastor two years before the resurfaced allegations but hasn't been involved in church life since August.
Events of Note
A promotional flyer distributed by Savarino Management in 2023.
Although it didn’t shut down in 2024, we would be remiss not to mention the ongoing saga of a sad and stalled Ellicott Station apartment complex sitting lifeless on Ellicott Street as city and county officials remain tight-lipped, offering little to no more comments about the situation.
Having progressed to the point of management notifying people that they were chosen to live there as tenants to ceasing all construction and pulling the rug out from under prospective apartment dwellers, the property now sits idle and vulnerable to the wintry elements.
File Photo by Howard Owens.
The vacant JC Penney building at Batavia City Centre was announced that it will be going up for auction on Jan. 16 after its California owner defaulted on mortgage payments to the bank; city officials unveiled plans to sell the Brisbane Mansion, which currently houses the city police department and a section of the parking lot between the Penney site and Bank Street. Another plan is in the works to market Creek Side near the Tonawanda, but details with FEMA and the flood map need to be worked out first, city officials have said.
File Photo of Baskin Livestock property after a Nov. 9, 2024 fire. Photo by Howard Owens.
Considered to be the city’s largest structure fire in recent years, the blaze at Baskin Livstock was reported early on a Saturday morning on Nov. 9, and city firefighters continued to hit hot spots days afterward, Batavia City Fire Chief Josh Graham had said.
The call came in at 7:47 a.m. at 20 Howard St., Batavia, and Batavia patrol officers arrived on scene first and confirmed smoke and flames, which led to an immediate second alarm. When the first fire crew arrived he said, they realized the fire was going to require more resources so a third alarm was called.
It took hours to fight the fire, which as of 2 p.m. that Saturday, wasn't completely extinguished as firefighters worked to extinguish various hot spots. During a City Council meeting the following Monday, firefighters were still checking at the scene to catch any stubborn hot spots that remained.
File Photo of Backhoe Joe's after fire destroyed the building. Photo by Howard Owens.
Both Chief Josh Graham, City Fire, and Capt. Robert Fix, had said at the time that they had no clue how the fire started or why it spread so quickly. The building was a total loss as the property owner had no insurance on it.
An initial caller at about 12:10 p.m. Jan. 12, 2024 reported smoke coming from one of the windows. A few minutes later, Fix was leaving the County Courthouse, where Engine 17 had been dispatched earlier for a medical call, and he saw a tower of smoke to the east and immediately called for a second alarm.
Brian F. Kent, 53, of Batavia, is charged with assault 2nd, assault 3rd, and obstruction of governmental administration 2nd. Kent was arrested on Dec. 24 in connection with an incident on Dec. 21. When officers attempted to take Kent into custody on a separate incident, he allegedly fought with two police officers, causing injuries to both of them. He was arraigned and jailed.
Nathan L Royse, 33, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon 3rd. Royse is accused of attempting to stab another person in Austin Park on April 23. He was arrested on Dec. 19. He was arraigned and released.
James E. Murray, Jr., 36, of Batavia, is charged with burglary 2nd, criminal contempt 1st, and harassment 2nd. Murray is accused of violating an order of protection on Dec. 6 during an incident on Montclair Avenue. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed.
Samuel R. Blackshear, 23, of Batavia, is charged with burglary 2nd, criminal contempt 1st, criminal obstruction of breathing, and endangering the welfare of a child. Blackshear is accused of violating an order of protection at a location on Ellsworth Avenue on Dec. 15. He is accused of placing his hands around the neck of another person. She was reportedly unable to breathe. He was arraigned and released.
Douglas G. Goodwin, 33, of Alabama, is charged with reckless endangerment 2nd and aggravated unlicensed operation 1st. On Dec. 13, officers were dispatched to a report of a suspicious vehicle on Ellicott Street. When officers approached the vehicle, the vehicle was placed in reverse, and it accelerated almost striking one of the officers. The driver then fled the area. Goodwin was arrested on Dec. 14. He was issued an appearance ticket.
Adam J. Howard, 39, of Rochester, is charged with petit larceny. Howard is accused of stealing a TV and Amazon Fire TV stick from a residence in Batavia. He was arraigned and released.
Cody M. Landin, 36, of Middlebury, is charged with DWI. Landin was reportedly involved in an accident on Dec. 14 on West Main Street. When police arrived on scene, he allegedly left and initially failed to stop when officers attempted to pull him over. he was arraigned and released.
Marcus Cauldwell, 32, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th and endangering the welfare of a child. Cauldwell is accused of damaging a door in the presence of a child during a fight on Bank Street. He was arraigned and released.
William E. Tolliver, Jr., 62, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Tolliver was stopped on Dec. 20 on East Avenue. He was issued traffic tickets and released.
Trace G. Brewer, 24, of Batavia, was arrested on Dec. 19 on two warrants. Brewer is accused of fleeing on foot from police when officers attempted to take him into custody, leading to a charge of resisting arrest and objecting to governmental administration 2nd. He was arraigned and released.
Samantha L. Tate, 32, of Batavia, was arrested on Dec. 19 on a warrant. She was initially charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs in March, 2023, and allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arraigned in City Court and released.
Robert Z. Johnson, 65, of Batavia, is charged with two counts of harassment 2nd. Johnson is accused of hitting another person on Dec. 19 during a fight on East Main Street. In a separate incident on Dec. 18, Johnson allegedly threatened another person. He was issued appearance tickets.
Charles P. Stevens, Shelby L. Fryer, Jasmine C. Mayo, and Taylor A. Browne, no ages or residences provided, are all charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. They were arrested on Dec. 17 following a traffic stop on South Main Street, Batavian, and allegedly found in possession of narcotics. They were issued appearance tickets.
David L. Weaver, 34, of Batavia, was arrested on Dec. 18 on a warrant. Weaver was charged with harassment in December 2022 and allegedly failed to appear in court. Weaver was arraigned in City Court and released.
Cassandra F. Smith, 39, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Smith was arrested on Dec. 17. She was accused of throwing an object at another person in violation of an order of protection. She was arraigned in City Court and jailed.
Ajia R. Hasenauer, 31, of Rochester, was arrested on Dec. 17 on two warrants. Hasenauer is accused of using a vehicle without permission. Hasenauer was also issued multiple traffic tickets. She was arraigned in City Court and jailed.
Janell M. Sauer, Colleen M. Hutchinson, and Brandon M. Seppe, no ages nor residences released, are charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. During a traffic stop on Dec. 17, all three were allegedly found in possession of narcotics. They were issued appearance tickets.
Victoria J. Paul, 33, of Le Roy, was arrested on Dec. 13 on a warrant. Paul was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd on Jan. 18 and allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arraigned in City Court and released.
Jade A. Fayko, 29, of Ridgeway, was arrested on Dec. 10, on a warrant. Fayko was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd in August 2023 and allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arraigned in City Court and released.
Richard D. Neal, 35, of Albion, is charged with DWI. Neal was stopped on Dec. 14 on West Main Street, Batavia. He was issued traffic tickets and released.
Tyler Robert Cook, 24, of Birchwood Drive, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, driving on a suspended registration, no inspection sticker, and inadequate lights. Cook was stopped at 12:05 a.m. on Dec. 22 on South Main Street, Batavia, by Deputy Mason Schultz. Cook was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.
Jamielyn Polizzi, 37, of South Street Road, Le Roy, is charged with three counts of acting in a manner injurious to a child, harassment 2nd, and disorderly conduct. Polizzi was arrested on Dec. 29 after deputies arrived at a residence on South Street Road, Le Roy, to investigate a report of a disturbance. Polizzi was reportedly at the residence to pick up her daughter. Polizzi was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.
Robert Anthony Gayhart, 21, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with unlawful dissemination of an intimate image. Gayhart was arrested on Dec. 28 following an investigation by Deputy Leah Bezon. He was held pending arraignment.
Joseph Carl Jeffords, 33, of Clinton Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, and unlicensed operation. Jeffords was stopped at 2:22 a.m. on Dec. 31 on Bank Street Road, Batavia, by Deputy Mason Schultz. He was allegedly found in possession of narcotics.
Anthony Haitz as King John earns a 2024 Best Male Lead Performance in a Play Harvie Award. File Photo by Howard Owens
Batavia Players' annual Harvie Awards gala culminated in two ties, Maia Zerillo stealing the show with Best Performance, downtown's Business Improvement District getting a nod for Community Partner, and several others earning rightful recognition for their roles in productions throughout the 2024 Main St. 56 Theater season.
And the Batavia Players – Main St. 56 Theater 2024 Harvie Awards went to:
2024 Best Male Lead Performance in a Play
Anthony Haitz – King John
2024 Best Female Lead Performance in a Play
Sophie Houseman - Pygmalion
2024 Best Male Supporting Performance in a Play
Steven Coburn - Pygmalion
2024 Best Female Supporting Performance in a Play
Dorothy Gerhart – Whirligig of Time
2024 Best Male Featured Performance in a Play
Elijah Van Epps - Pygmalion
2024 Best Female Featured Performance in a Play
Sophie Houseman – Whirligig of Time
2024 Best Male Lead Performance in a Musical: a tie
Anthony Haitz – White Christmas
Elijah Van Epps – Evita
2024 Best Female Lead Performance in a Musical
Kristin Gelia – Evita
2024 Best Male Supporting Performance in a Musical: a tie
Robert Balbick – White Christmas
Skylar Dence - Evita
2024 Best Female Supporting Performance in a Musical
Teressa Hirsch – White Christmas
2024 Best Male Featured Performance in a Musical
Bill Moon – White Christmas
2024 Best Female Featured Performance in a Musical
Rory Van Epps - Evita
2024 Best Male Performance in a Cabaret
Deacon Smith – Four the Record
2024 Best Female Featured Performance in a Cabaret
Jocelyn Coburn – Four the Record
2024 Best Group Performance in a Cabaret
This Man – Just One More Time
2024 Best Solo Performance in a Cabaret
Ian Cannioto – Wickedly Musical
2024 Best Youth Performance in a Cabaret
Lilah Mordell – Wickedly Musical
2024 Best Youth Performance in a Musical or Play
Maia Zerillo – Bye Bye Birdie
2024 Best Child Performance in a Musical or Play
Elle Williams – White Christmas
2024 Best Solo Performance in a Musical
Kristin Gelia – Don’t Cry For Me Argentina
2024 Best Group Performance in a Musical
And the Money Kept Rolling in - Evita
2024 Performance of the Year
Maia Zerillo - Bye Bye Birdie
2024 Director of the Year
James Chamberlain
2024 Community Partner of the Year
Downtown Batavia Business Improvement District
File Photo of Maia Zerillo in "Bye Bye Birdie." Photo by Howard Owens.
File Photo of Kristin Gelia, who won the Best Female Lead Performance in a Musical for her role in "Evita." Photo by Howard Owens.
Batavia City School District has cancelled all after school activities for Monday, January 13. If parents have children at the YMCA program at Jackson or John Kennedy, please pick them up by 4 p.m.
Alexander Central - No evening activities & sports canceled
Rehearsal for the Genesee Chorale’s spring season will be postponed until 7 p.m. Jan. 20 at St. James Episcopal Church, 405 E. Main St., Batavia.
Please submit cancellations and closures to: news@thebatavian.com.
The Town of Byron Republican Committee is seeking registered party members who are interested in becoming endorsed Republican candidates for the following Town of Byron open positions for 2026:
Town Supervisor
Town Clerk / Tax Collector
2 – Town Board council persons
Those interested can contact or send a letter of interest and or resume to:
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