0 West Main Street Road, Batavia.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!! Call Reliant Real Estate today!
Please be advised that the City of Batavia Water Department will repair a water main on Prospect Avenue, between Richmond Avenue and Mix Place, on Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Traffic will be closed in the area while the repairs are being made. Please use an alternate route.
As always, when the water is restored, it may be discolored. Please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.
We apologize for any inconvenience, and the public’s patience is greatly appreciated.
2018 File Photo of Batavia Players, with Patrick Burk in the center. Photo by Howard Owens
In the middle of a shaky stock market and uncertain economic future, there’s one thing that has been able to ride out even the worst financial storms, Patrick Burk says.
And that’s show business, in its many forms, including the one most dear to him, live theater by Batavia Players.
“Keep in mind, during the Great Depression, the only industry that excelled was entertainment,” Burk said to The Batavian during an interview about the Players’ new lease and determination to forge ahead. “We're ecstatic with how it ended up. We're very happy with the confidence the city manager and the city has shown us. We knew that we were on the right track.”
The nonprofit group has faced its share of hurdles so far, going from an expensive construction of Main St. 56 Theater to an even more costly project due to pandemic shutdowns in 2020-21, supply chain and labor delays, and the final nail in the production season’s coffin: not being able to continue with plays and musicals and collect revenue from ticket sales.
While in arrears with back rent adding up to more than $25,000, the group rallied to begin paying it back, and with assistance from attorney Ed Graney, negotiated with city officials for a new lease this year.
“When all of this came up, it was just a matter of making sure that it was presented in a way that was acceptable for everybody. We've had some very positive things happen, including, we have back rent down to $18,000, we've been able to pay our rent on time, on a monthly basis since December,” Burk said. “We kind of knew that that's where we were going. It's just we wanted to make sure that we could get there. We're ahead on where we originally where the agreement says we should be, so we're maintaining that."
“It's important for the public to know that we have been able to accomplish and do what we really said we were going to, and I think it's important for them to know that we're very healthy and we're doing well and we're producing 12 to 13 shows a year,” Burk said. “And everything is moving along. It's a very successful venture, it’s just been a very positive result, and we're just very happy that it ended up, through negotiations, everything that we all went through, we enjoy the fact that we have the confidence of the city and the city manager, and here we go.”
The lease is for five years. Burk doesn’t know if any kind of negative economic longevity will affect the theater since that industry as a whole has been strong throughout the decades, he said. Batavia Players has “some major work of fundraising” to do, which is happening on a regular basis, and a recent spaghetti dinner event went very well, he said.
Memberships are on the rise, along with everyone’s hopes for another successful season. Up next is Shakespeare in Springtime: the Winter’s Tale, set for 7:30 p.m. March 21 and 22 and 2 p.m. March 23.
“So all we can do is just keep working the work and keep doing the work,” Burk said. “And hoping for positive outcomes.”
Charles Phillp Stevens, 36, of Clinton Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of narcotics with intent to sell and criminal possession of a narcotic drug. Stevens was allegedly found in possession of cocaine during a traffic stop at 12:02 a.m. on March 7 on Lake Street Road, Le Roy. He was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held pending arraignment.
Clint Jeffery Towne, 44, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon 3rd. Towne was arrested at 9:15 p.m. on Feb. 28 on these charges following a prior on Feb. 21 on a separate incident. During a search of his property at a location on Phelps Road, Pembroke, he was allegedly found in possession of an assault weapon and multiple large-capacity magazines. He was incarcerated at the time and released back into the custody of the Genesee County Jail.
Justin A. Reisman, 36, of Water-Port Carlton Road, Carlton, is charged with tampering with physical evidence and obstructing governmental administration. Following a fatal motor vehicle accident on Tesnow Road at 8:04 p.m. on Feb. 23, Reisman allegedly entered the crime scene and remained unlawfully after being told to leave several times by sheriff's deputies. Reisman was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.
Jarad Michael Stalker, 40, of Indian Falls Road, Pembroke, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Stalker was arrested on Feb. 19 at 10:06 p.m. on a warrant and allegedly found with narcotics in a pocket of his clothing. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.
Tammy M. O'Shea, 53, of Main Road, Stafford, is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and improper or unsafe turn. O'Shea was stopped at 2:35 a.m. on Feb. 22 on East Main Street, Batavia, by Deputy Ryan Mullen. O'Shea was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.
Thomas Cody Schell, 38, of South Pearl Street, Oakfield, is charged with DWI and speeding. Schell was stopped at 2:34 a.m. on March 8 on Clinton Street Road, Bergen, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Schell was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.
Bonnie Jane Moser, 52, of Bethany Center Road, Bethany, is charged with petit larceny. Moser is accused of shoplifting from a store on Veterans Memorial Drive at 7:20 p.m. on March 8 (the Sheriff's Office did not disclose the name of the store in the arrest report). Moser allegedly tried to steal six items valued at $95.12. She was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.
Brandi Rose Hough, 29, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Hough was arrested following a Probation Department home visit at 10:15 a.m. on March 7. She was allegedly found in possession of methamphetamine.
Dale R. Williams, 41, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI, aggravated unlicensed operation, and driving without insurance. Williams was stopped at 12:50 a.m. on March 1 on Richmond Avenue in Batavia by Deputy Ayrton Blankenberg. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.
Colleen Michell Hutchinson, 50, of Ellicott Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, driving a vehicle without a stop lamp, and uninspected motor vehicle. Hutchinson was stopped at 4:48 p.m. on March 3 by Deputy Jeremy McClellan. She was allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine and "narcotic equipment used to smoke crack cocaine." She was issued an appearance ticket and released.
Rashad Tariq Cordell, 25, of State Street Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property 3rd and aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd. Cordell is accused of possessing a stolen vehicle at 10 p.m. on Feb. 27 on Park Road, Batavia. He was held pending arraignment.
Robert Paul Leiser, 56, of Lockport Road, Alabama, is charged with hindering prosecution 3rd. Leiser is accused of allowing Marc C. Cook to live on his property while knowing Cook had active felony warrants. Leiser was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.
Dana Lee Powers, 54, of Prestige Xing, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, and operating a vehicle without stop lamps. Powers was stopped at 12:21 a.m. on Feb. 28 on Ellicott Street, Batavia, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Powers was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.
Raymond James Dick, 60, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Also arrested was Sandra L. Marsceill. They were allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance while in a parking lot on Veterans Memorial Drive at 3:48 p.m. on Feb. 25. They were transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.
The HomeCare & Hospice Foundation is assembling the mightiest little heroes for an action-packed day at its first-ever Superhero Bash! This high-energy event, set for Sunday, March 30 at Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia, will offer kids the ultimate superhero experience with interactive activities, games, and fun challenges designed to bring out their inner hero.
"We are thrilled to introduce this exciting new event to our lineup," said Melissa Sullivan, CEO of HomeCare & Hospice. "After the incredible success of our Princess Party (held in Olean), we knew we needed something equally fun for all the young heroes in our community. With over-the-top activities and hands-on fun, we can't wait to see these superheroes in action!"
At the Superhero Bash, kids will:
Create their own custom cape and shield
Test their aim in a shield toss challenge
Tackle an exciting superhero obstacle course
Show off their best moves in a superhero freeze dance
Refuel with super snacks to keep their powers strong
The superhero menu will include: Power-Up Pizza Shields, Bat-a-roni and Cheese, Crunch Force Veggie Dippers, and Superpower Punch.
"The best part is that this event isn't just about fun—it's about making a difference," added Sullivan. "Every registration and sponsorship supports compassionate care services through the HomeCare & Hospice Foundation, helping families in need across our communities."
The Superhero Bash will take place on Sunday, March 30, at Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia. Young heroes can choose from three action-packed sessions: 10 - 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., or 1 - 2 p.m. Registration is $20 per child for employees and $25 per child for the public. Secure your spot today by signing up at 2025superhero.givesmart.com!
Volunteer & Sponsorship Opportunities
Calling all sidekicks! Want to be part of the action? We need volunteers to help with registration, craft stations, the obstacle course, and more. Shifts are just 1.5 hours, making it a fun and easy way to give back. Sign up today: https://bit.ly/4i35sO7.
Want to support our young superheroes? Sponsorships range from $200 to $500, providing businesses with recognition on event signage, promotional materials, and more. Your sponsorship can help sponsor a young hero’s experience!
Proceeds from this event will benefit the HomeCare & Hospice Foundation, ensuring continued support for patients and families in need. Since 2004, the Foundation has raised and distributed funds to help provide compassionate care services across our communities. For more information about registering, volunteering, or sponsorship opportunities, contact Meme Yanetsko at myanetsko@homecare-hospice.org.
In recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, Genesee County will host "Healing Community, A Community Awareness Event" on Monday, April 7, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Grace Baptist Church (238 Vine St, Batavia). This free event is open to the public and aims to honor victims and survivors, raise awareness about victim services, and strengthen community support.
The 2025 national theme, "Kinship: Connecting & Healing," highlights the importance of community connections in the healing process for victims and survivors.
Event Highlights:
Honor Guard & Bagpipe Ceremony – A solemn tribute to victims and survivors.
Keynote Speaker: Linda Dynel – Author of Leaving Dorian: A Memoir of Hope and its sequel Finding Krissy: A Memoir of Survival, Dynel’s powerful story explores resilience in the face of intimate partner violence.
Panel Discussion: "How Do I Get Help?" – Local organizations will share insights into the support and services available for victims.
Opening & Closing Remarks – Presented by the Genesee County Sheriff's Office and the Genesee County District Attorney’s Office.
Registration & Award Nominations:
This event is free to attend and lunch will be provided at no cost. Registration is required to secure a spot and select a lunch option. Registration can be completed here https://qrco.de/GCVRW.
The Crime Victims’ Rights Week committee also invites you to submit a nomination for one or more of the following three awards: The Outstanding Volunteer Service Award, the Courage & Resilience Award, and the Crime Victim Service Award. The nomination form can be submitted here https://qrco.de/GCVRWA.
For additional information, contact Genesee Justice at (585) 815-7821 or visit www.geneseeny.gov/cvrw.
The tri-county coalition dedicated to community health and well-being is back in the public eye – with a new name and a new coordinator.
Formerly the GOW Opioid Task Force, the GOW CARES Alliance has scheduled its first quarterly meeting of the year for 12:30 p.m. April 1 at Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St., Batavia.
The session is open to the public at no charge. Lunch will be provided.
Sue Gagne, who was honored in 2024 by state Sen. George Borrello as a New York State “Woman of Distinction” for the 57th District, has assumed the role of coordinator of the organization. Gagne, a registered nurse, has been active in the mental health and suicide prevention fields for more than two decades.
“Over the past several months, we have been working on the transition from the opioid task force into a more comprehensive group, broadening our focus to not only substance use but mental health, trauma and suicide prevention in Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming counties and the surround area,” Gagne said.
She said the GOW CARES Alliance is dedicated to improving the quality of life in rural communities through broad-based, inclusive partnerships that support overall wellness.
GOW CARES Alliance members are from various sectors of the community, including public health, mental health, human services, local government, substance use disorder treatment and recovery agencies, law enforcement, EMS, faith-based groups, health systems and medical practitioners, education, businesses, concerned individuals, families, and individuals in recovery.
Gagne said representative from human services’ agencies are invited to set up resource tables at the meeting on April 1 meeting. This can be done by sending an email to Sherri Bensley, the group’s education workgroup co-chair, at sherri.bensley@geneseeny.gov by March 28.
“All are welcome to support the effort to make our community a healthier place to live,” Gagne added.
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."
Photo by Howard Owens.
Sheriff Joseph Graff Photo by Howard Owens.
Retired Deputy Brian Thompson Photo by Howard Owens.
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.
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.
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.
Chief Christopher Strathearn. Photo by Howard Owens.
Gary Diegalman was honored for 50 years of volunteer service. Photo by Howard Owens.
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.
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
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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!!
The soon-to-be Genesee County Commissioner of Public Works Laura Wadhams, approved to fill the position to be vacated by Tim Hens in June. Photo by Howard Owens
Similar to many women in the workplace, Laura Wadhams keeps different pairs of shoes in her office, but not because she may need a wardrobe change throughout the day or for an evening out.
She never knows when she might need a pair of steel-toed work boots to check out a project.
Wadhams will be the newly promoted commissioner of Genesee County’s Public Works Department to fill the vacancy left by retiring Commissioner Tim Hens in June.
"I’m very much a Type A, technical person. I loved math and science, so I always kind of knew that engineering or healthcare was in my future. My mom (Jean Lichtenthal) was a healthcare professional, but when I got a little deeper into healthcare, I was like, nope, this is not my calling. So engineering it was, and I love civil engineering,” Wadhams said during an interview at the county highway department on Cedar Street. “I definitely was drawn to civil engineering because I just love being outside … I’m definitely drawn to civil engineering because of that, just building things and being outside and all of that, which not all engineering disciplines get to do.”
This is the first in a series for Women's History Month, which recognizes and honors "the societal, cultural, and historical influences women have made (and continue to make) in the United States," especially in our own backyard.
Wadhams has worked as a civil, staff, and transportation engineer and transportation construction inspector for the New York State Department of Transportation. She was working in the private sector for LaBella Associates when she got a call from Commissioner Tim Hens who was looking to fill the assistant county engineer job in late 2018.
A native of Batavia who graduated from Batavia High School in 2008 and watched her dad, Tom Lichtenthal, work his way to town highway superintendent, Wadhams had a nostalgic tug to her hometown: “If I'm gonna go back to the public sector, I'd rather be at home, and bring all these talents back here to Genesee County and do this work here in Genesee County,” she said.
And Hens was ready to take her.
“She was a perfect candidate to replace me,” said Hens, who is planning his retirement this June after 27 years. “She has done an amazing job in so many different areas, from award-winning bridge projects to airport work, facilities projects and managing the construction of the new county jail. She is an excellent communicator and has the demeanor to work with different agencies, contractors, community leaders, and people.”
A younger Wadhams remembers playing with Matchbox cars on her dad’s Interchange plans to spread out at home, giving her an early head start on her future career. She went on to Clarkson University for a bachelor’s in civil engineering, surrounded by about 80% of the men in the class.
Once out in the consulting world, that split between men and women was more around 60-40, she said, and in Genesee County, there have been “a handful of women” doing this type of work. People ask her about it all the time, and it’s all part of the job, she said.
“That’s not something that phases me anymore. I think, especially civil engineering, it seems like the women in civil engineering can’t be afraid to take up space or own their seat at the table because you've got civil engineers that work with architects on architecture projects, but then civil engineers sometimes are the project manager standalone. So you have to be able to hold your own in that sense. And I learned to do that definitely early on, I did internships at the DOT, I was out by myself on sign crews and striping crews and setting up work zones, dealing with the public who didn’t want the work zone set up on Route 104 during the day."
As Hens mentioned, she’s taken on big projects, with the $70 million new county jail being her largest one so far. Wadhams was on site working alongside contractors and a team of corrections officers learning the inner and outer details of how a jail operates.
“Paul (Osborn) and I spent hours and hours and hours out there; that was a big project for the county, and it was a very public project for the county,” she said. “We wanted to make sure that the county’s interests were protected, as well as getting the things done and moved along in order to get inmates in there, because at the end of the day, that's what the end goal was,” she said.
What did you learn that you maybe didn’t expect of the experience? “I’ve done a lot of schools and lots of other higher education projects and bridge projects and things like that, but the security aspect and the jail perspective of that was way more than I ever thought it was going to be. But we were super lucky to have a jail transition team that we worked with every single day to be able to get through those things,” she said. “There were four corrections officers out there full time. So we got to learn a lot from each other, we were teaching them how to read plans, and they were teaching me how to do keys for jail. So we learned a lot from each other. It was a really great team.”
The jail process took her throughout her whole time with the county, beginning in her first two months of hire in 2018 with the design phase, a break during the Covid pandemic period in 2021, and construction for two years, with completion in 2024.
Her other biggest project was the South Lyon Street bridge, which earned an award and was a collaboration with the city of Batavia, where the bridge is located.
“I was a project manager for that one; that was a lot of time out in the field. We're lucky to be able to work with great consultants and engineers and contractors,” she said. “So for us, it's more making sure the county's goals are achieved. It was a big one, definitely the biggest bridge project the county had ever done.”
What did you do? “So my role as a project manager was basically to oversee the contractors and consultants and make sure we're keeping things on time and on schedule and on budget, for sure. So, if they had issues out in the field, I'd go out in the field and be like, ‘okay, how do we come up with a plan to solve them?’” she said. “Or, let's figure out a solution to this situation that we're running into, or there's a power line that needs to get moved. Let's coordinate with National Grid, things like that, day to day.”
She understands that her role, especially as commissioner, evolves into “some level of a diplomat” because this position serves as a go-between for the highly technical folks drafting plans and county legislators giving approvals. Many times throughout both projects, either Hens or Wadhams presented updates during legislator committee meetings and answered questions.
“You have to be a decent people person at the end of the day and have conversations,” she said.
She and her husband Andy are parents to “amazing” 4-year-old Emma, born in the thick of Covid in May 2020, and Wadhams loves spending time with her family. This totally unbiased mom said that her daughter is “super fun” and apparently a chip off the block — enjoying building tasks already with Magnetiles and Legos — and will be entering kindergarten this fall.
Her family also includes her sister Jennifer, an emergency room physician’s assistant in Pennsylvania, and her brother Andrew, an aeronautical engineer in Colorado.
When not changing her heels for heavy-duty boots, Wadhams spends her free time reading, using her mad engineering skills on DIY home projects, and spending time at a family member’s Conesus Lake cottage during warmer weather.
That doesn’t mean she’ll have all downtime during the summer, as the Engine House is about 60% complete and is on the chores list, with three bridges, roads and culverts. Up next will be the county’s Animal Shelter and Holland Land Office Museum for summer 2026.
She has spoken at career days and will ask kids what they think an engineer looks like, surmising they probably imagine a man with white hair and a pocket protector, she said.
“But my daughter sees me, so to me, that says a lot right there, you know? And if I go to St Joe's and do the Career Day or things like that, I think it's just kind of showing people that it's not one size fits all,” she said. “And that's important to me for people to see, because everyone has different interests, little girls and little boys all play with Legos and … (they might think) I don't know if I could do that for a career. Yeah, you can. You totally can.”
The commissioner’s role oversees seven divisions, 57 full-time and 11 seasonal or part-time employees within the department, including highways and bridges; fleet management; engineering; facility management; parks and forestry; Genesee County Airport; countywide water; and environmental health, which means engineering reviews for water, septic, campgrounds and pools. Her predecessor has built a “great group” here, and Wadhams is excited for this next step, she said.
“He’s the last 27 years. The stuff that he's done and provided for the county has been amazing. I think we did the math once, and 30 to 40% of the structures, the culverts and bridges, have been replaced since he's been here. Like that alone is huge,” she said. “Even the work that he's done for the public water supply and environmental health and things like that, I mean, it's been amazing, so just getting to continue that on is going to be exciting. And then whatever challenges come our way for the next 20 years, we'll take them in stride. I'm excited to do that and kind of leave my mark on our community too, just like he has the last 20 years.”
He's the proprietor of Uncle Jon's Diner at Hartshorn Road and Pearl Street Road in West Batavia. It's the former location of The Family Diner, which closed a year ago.
"I grew up right here in Hartshorn Road, right up the street from the restaurant," Tesch said. "I came here as a kid all the time with my grandparents. I worked here for a little bit for Brian and LeeAnn when they owned it previously, and it was always the most fun job I had. Ever since I was a little kid, I've always wanted to open a restaurant. So, it's always been a dream of mine to actually open this very place."
Uncle Jon's was a diner before and it's a diner now but Tesch said he has some ideas of his own to help draw people in.
This Easter, the Easter Bunny will visit and there will be an Easter egg hunt.
"I want to do an all-you-can-eat Thanksgiving and Christmas, too," he said.
So far, he said, the customer feedback has been encouraging.
"Everybody's been real happy, and we have a real great customer base and a lot of new customers every day who are becoming our regulars," Tesch said.
Lady Devils team heading to NY State Championship this weekend. Photo by Steve Ognibene
Press release:
The Batavia Indoor Track team is in the final weeks of a very impressive winter season, with the New York State Championships on the horizon this coming weekend.
The meet is being held on Saturday, March 8, at the Ocean Breeze Athletic facility on Staten Island in New York City.Batavia has 18 athletes who have qualified for this event and we are very excited to compete this weekend at this competitive meet!
Batavia will again be well represented in the throws circle, with two seniors competing in states.Sheldon Siverling broke his own school record and became the first Blue Devil to throw over 60 feet in Shot Put with a winning throw of 60' - 2.25" at State Qualifiers.He also impressively won the Weight Throw with a distance of 63' - 6".He will enter the State meet ranked 3rd in the state for Shot Put with a great opportunity to come home with another State Championship.Ava Wierda also had a terrific meet, winning the Weight Throw with a distance of 49' - 1.5" and will compete for the 2nd year in a row at the State meet in this event.
Cooper Konieczny has shattered the record books for Batavia and will represent the Blue Devils at the State Meet in Pole Vault.He cleared 14' - 0" at the State Qualifier meet and will look to improve his school record this weekend.
Not to be outdone, the Blue Devil distance crew is in the midst of arguably their best season ever, with multiple school records broken and multiple athletes competing at states in individual events and both the men's and women's 4x800 Relays.
Cameron Garofalo has earned himself a spot amongst the best distance runners ever to compete for Batavia, having broken the school records in the 3200m, the 1600m, and finally the 1000m, all during this winter season. He ran a 2:32.64 in the 1000m last weekend, breaking a school record from 1998, and he will compete in this event at the State Championship.He will also anchor the Boys 4x800 Relay along with E'Nhazje Carter, Grant Gahagan, and Nate Kinsey.Their time of 8:26.50 won the State Qualifier meet ahead of 2nd place Marcus Whitman and is less than 7 seconds away from the existing school record (8:20.24).
For our Lady Devils, Campbell Riley will also compete at Indoor States for the 2nd year in a row in the 1000m, having won this event at the State qualifier meet with a time of 3:00.58.She is one of the most decorated Batavia female athletes of all time and will compete in three events at the State meet, anchoring the 4x400 relay, and the 4x800 relay as well.The 4x400 Relay also includes Ady O'Donnell, Ava Anderson, and Karizma Wescott, and they will be seeded to medal at states after finishing first last week with a time of 4:10.76.
The girl's 4x800 Relay was arguably the race of the night at State Qualifiers, with our four athletes breaking the school record, which was previously established in 2003. Mallory Boyce led off the relay with an incredible first leg, placing the Blue Devils in first. We never looked back through the rest of the event. Jenna Higginsran 2nd, Amelia Tripp 3rd, with Campbell Riley anchoring the relay to its 1st place finish and new school record of 9:56.69.
It is with great pride that we are bringing 18 athletes with us this season to finish the Indoor Track and Field season at the New York State Championships.The Blue Devils have embraced our tough reputation across Section V and want to add their own chapter to our storied history and traditions.We are very excited to compete and represent Batavia at States this weekend!
Batavia boys team heading to NY State Championship this weekend. Photo by Steve Ognibene
Press The Batavia City School District (BCSD) is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Musicians of Note honor.
Each year, BCSD recognizes alumni and retired music educators for their accomplishments in the field of music. Batavia has many alumni who have had successful careers in music performance, music education, musical theater, and audio recording.
Honorees will be recognized in a future ceremony with a video presentation and performance ensembles to celebrate their achievements. A plaque featuring their accomplishments will be displayed on the Musicians of Note wall at Batavia High School.
Criteria for nominations include:
Recipients should be/have been an active performer or music educator.
Recipients must be at least ten years out of high school.
Recipients should have/had a successful musical career in either performance, composition, education, theater, or audio recording.
Nominations to posthumously honor deceased musicians/educators from BCSD will be accepted as well.
To nominate an alumnus or retired BCSD music educator who fits the criteria, click here.
Honorees and 2025 ceremony information will be announced at a later date. For any questions, please contact Batavia City School District Music Department Chair Melanie Case at mlcase@bataviacsd.org.
