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'Lil Man' looms large in $102,500 NYSS at Batavia

By Tim Bojarski

The New York Sire Stakes returns to Batavia Downs on Wednesday (Aug. 21) and brings with it a field of five first-year male trotters who will compete in one dash valued at $102,500.

The most successful horse in the field is BJM’s Little Man (Devious Man-Vixen) who has won four of six lifetime starts with one third, has amassed $95,450 as a result and has a lifetime mark of 1:56.4 at Tioga Downs. However only one of those wins was in a NYSS event while three came in Excelsior action. And that third place finish in his last outing came at the hands of two of his rivals who he will also face again in this race.

BJM's Lil Man, who drew post three, is trained by John Berger and has regular driver Tyler Buter back aboard.

Karinchak (Chapter Seven-Sianna Hanover) has started in seven NYSS races this year and has only one win as well. But that came in his last start where he defeated BJM's Lil Man at Monticello Raceway. The win time of 1:59.2 was also his lifetimark and he comes into this race in top form and looking to repeat.

Mark Macdonald will drive from post two for trainer Ray Schnittker.

Variegated (Chapter Seven-White Cheetah) finished second in that race at Monticello behind Karinchak and ahead of BJM's Lil Man, and it was his second straight second place finish as well. And although he has not won a race all year, he has also not missed a check in his five lifetime starts and has been very competitive in all of his outings.

Braxton Boyd will sit between the wheels for trainer Marcus Melander from post four.

The NYSS competition is carded as race six. There are also two $20,000 Excelsior trots that will go as race seven and eight. Post time for the first race is 6 p.m.

Free full card past performance programs for Wednesday, as well as every live card of racing at Batavia, can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab.

Farmers market coupons still available at Genesee County Office for the Aging

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee County Office for the Aging is pleased to announce that Farmers’ Market Coupons are still available for eligible residents. These coupons can be picked up at the 2 Bank St., Batavia office, which is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

To ensure a smooth process, please be prepared with the following forms: 

2024 Income Guidelines for Eligibility: 

  • Household of 1: $2,322/month 
  • Household of 2: $3,152/month
  • Household of 3: $3,981/month 

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to receive Farmers’ Market Coupons. If you have any questions, please call 343-1611.

Law and Order: Five people charged with drug possession following traffic stop

By Howard B. Owens

Eric J. Flowers, Randy G. Leach, Sara J. Anzalone, Christopher L. Rebmann, and Shanda L. Williams (no ages nor residences provided), are all charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. The five people were charged following a traffic stop on Aug. 5 on an undisclosed street by members of the Batavia PD NET Unit. During the stop, K-9 Batu responded to the scene and reportedly alerted to the presence of narcotics in side the car. Officers reported discovered crack cocaine, a digital scale, and drug paraphernalia. The occupants were issued appearance tickets.

Mark W. McWethy, 56, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 4th and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. McWethy was arrested on Aug. 7 after police were called to the parking lot of 7-Eleven on East Main Street for a report of a person slumped over a while of a vehicle. During an investigation, police reportedly located crack cocaine and prescription pills inside the vehicle. McWethy was arraigned in City Court and jailed without bail.

Tanisha A Nealy, 36, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon 3rd, menacing 2nd, and endangering the welfare of a child. Nealy is accused of threatening another person with a knife on July 31 during a fight on Holland Avenue. She was arraigned in City Court and released.

Timothy W Szurgot, 39, no residence provided, is charged with grand larceny 4th. Szurgot  is accused of stealing a vehicle from the parking lot of Quicklees on Sept. 30. He was arrested on July 16. He was arraigned and released.

Bryant W. Herdtner, 36, of Batavai, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon 3rd and menacing 2nd. Herdtner is accused of threatening another person with a sledgehammer during a fight on Tracy Avenue on July 15. He was arraigned and released.

Brant G. Matthews, 29, of Batavia, is charged with resisting arrest of obstruction of governmental administration 2nd. It's alleged that Matthews fled from police on foot on July 22 when they attempted to arrest him on unrelated charges. He was issued an appearance ticket. He is also charged with petit larceny. He is accused of stealing a bicycle on East Avenue on July 20.

Mitchell D. Merrill, 38, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 4th and conspiracy 6th. He is also charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. On July 16, Merrill was allegedly found in possession of stolen porperty in the parking lot of Speedway.  He was issued an appearance ticket. On July 18, he was allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine when police arrested him on unrelated chargeds. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Gregory D. Nevinger, 38, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Nevinger was arrested on July 18 for allegedly threatening another person during a fight on Bank Street. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Haley M Stempniak, 22, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Stempniak was charged following a report of an accident on East Main Street on July 17. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Ryan T Ziegler, 33, of Attica, is charged with DWI. Ziegler was charged following a report of an accident on July 20 on Wast Main Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Gary L Naylor, 30, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Naylor was the subject of a traffic stop on July 21 on Washington Avenue. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Nicholas C. Kingdollar, 28, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 1st and assault 3rd. Kingdollar is accused of fighting on July 27 with a person protected by restraining order and causing injury to that person. He was arraigned and released.

Haley M. Merrill, 32, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property 4th and conspiracy 6th. Merrill was allegedly found on July 31 in possession of a stolen purse and credit cards. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Terry N. Holloway, 41, of Batavia, is charged with grand larceny 4th, criminal possession of stolen property 4th, and criminal mischief 4th. Holloway is accused of stealing a motorcycle on July 23 from a residence on Wood Street. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed.

Louis S. Szabo, 24, of Batavia, and Hillary D. Russell, 31, of Batavia, are charged with trespass. Szabo and Russell are accused of trespassing on property on Evans Street on July 24. Szabo is also charged with criminal mischief 4th. He also allegedly damaged property. They were issued appearance tickets.

Justin T. Gladney, 35, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Gladney is accused of contacted a person over social media in violation of a court order. He was arrested on July 29. He was issued an appearance ticket.

 Daniel J Bakowski, 43, of West Valley, is charged with objectructing governmental administration 2nd and failure to stop at stop sign. Bakowski was arrested on July 23 after a police officer, with the City of Batavia NET Unit attempted to arrest Bakowski on several outstanding warrants. Bakowski allegedly fled from police on an e-bike, before being stopped and taken into custody. He was issued an appearance ticket and held at the Genesee County Jail, for arraignment on his warrants.

Edward D. Grant, III, 28, is charged with unlawful fleeing 3rd and multiple vehicle and traffic violations. Grand is accused of fleeing from Batavia patrol officers and Sheriff's deputies on July 25. The chase passed through the city of Batavia before ending on the Thruway. Grant was issued several tickets.

Navaeh C. Welch, 19, of Batavia, and a 16-year-old female are charged with disorderly conduct. The pair were charged following an investigation in to a fight on July 20 in Austin Park. During the fight there were reportedly multiple people in the park. Both were issued appearance tickets.

Ashley T. Bowman, 19, of Batavia, was arrested on July 25 on a warrant for charges of trespass and criminal mischief 4th. Bowman is accused of entering a property on May 27 on Dewey Avenue and threw a rock at a window. She was arraigned in City Court and released.

Eric A Spikes, 47, of Batavia, is charged with failure to register as a sex offender. Spikes is accused of failure to update his address as required by court order. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed.

Dominic D Czerniak, 25, of Batavia, is charged with criminal trespass 2nd. Czerniak  was arrested on July 31 and accused of enterintg another person's residence the previous day. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Todd S. Esposito, 53, of Rochester, is charged with DWI. Esposito was stopped on Aug. 2 on Clinton Street by Batavia PD. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Todd L. Kraft, 37, of Niagara Falls, is charged with DWI. Kraft was stopped on July 28 on West Main Street, by a Batavia patrol officer. He was issued several traffic tickets and released.

Column: When a church closes, parishioners lose a piece of their hearts

By Anne Marie Starowitz
st-mary-s-closes

Batavia proudly once had four independent Catholic Churches. Over the years, St. Mary's merged with St. Joseph's Church and became Resurrection Parish, and Sacred Heart and St. Anthony's became Ascension Parish. It was a very sad day when St. Anthony's closed on Jan. 12, 2013.

Every church has its history, the year it opened and, in many cases, the year it closed. 

St. Mary's early history began with a temporary chapel set up by Father Walsh in a private home on Ellicott Street located to the west of the site of the present St. Mary's Church. On Feb. 19, 1906, the parishioners voted to build a new church on Ellicott Street.

John Coxhead of Buffalo prepared plans for the new church. The contract to build the new church was awarded to John Pickert of Batavia. The building of the new church began on July 31, 1906. The church is made of Medina Sandstone, Italianate style, with a square tower in front. The cornerstone of the church ceremony was held on Oct. 21, 1906. St. Mary's Church opened to its parishioners on December 1, 1907.

 In 1939, Rev. Edward J. Ferger proposed that the parish start a Catholic High School. During his pastorate, he helped raise money for a new wing at St. Jerome's Hospital and helped establish Our Lady of Fatima Church in Elba, NY. His most significant accomplishments were establishing St. Mary's Elementary School and Notre Dame High School.

Over the years, many priests have held the pastor position at St. Mary's Church. In 1968, Father Dailey introduced folk music to some of the masses. 

On Aug. 17, St. Mary's doors closed. There will be no more masses, baptisms, or weddings at that site.

There are many reasons why a parishioner is attached to a specific church.   My children were baptized in a particular church, where they made their Holy Communion and Confirmation.

When "your" church closes, that parishioner loses a piece of their heart. You have your favorite pew and your memories of ownership of that church. It was your church, and those memories will have a different meaning now that the doors are closed.   My latest memories are the funeral masses for my parents. You remember where you sat every time you went into that church. A song from the organ brings you back to when you said goodbye to your mom and dad. In our case, it was two funerals six months apart. 

We just renewed our wedding vows at Sacred Heart Church, not realizing that July 27 would be one of the last 4:00 masses said at that time. The church's closing is more than a building closing its doors. People lose a part of their Catholic history and special memories created inside their church.

Woman, 24, dies following crash on Creek Road, Batavia

By Howard B. Owens

Police are investigating a fatal motor vehicle accident that was reported at 9:37 p.m. on Saturday on Creek Road just inside city limits.

The cause of the accident has not yet been determined but it appears, according to police, that Tanysha Thomas, 24, of Caledonia, lost control of her vehicle while heading north on Creek Road on a turn in the road. The car struck a telaphone pole, a tree, and then roled down an embankment, landing on its roof. 

A vehicle fire was reported.

Emergency personnel pulled Thomas from the vehicle and she was transported to UMMC, where she was pronounced dead.

There were no other occupants in the vehicle. 

Batavia PD and City Fire along with Mercy EMS responded to the accident.

The Sheriff's Office Crash Management Team is assisting with the investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Batavia Police Department at 585-345-6350.

 

Notre Dame announces youth basketball league for the fall

By Press Release

Press Release:

Notre Dame Boys Basketball Coach Mike Rapone will again conduct a youth basketball league at Notre Dame that was a huge success last fall. 

This league is for boys & girls broken into two divisions: Grades 2,3 & 4 who play on a 8ft basket and Grades 5 & 6.

The season runs from September 29 through December 1. Each team will play 10 games with stats and standings posted weekly. Games are held on Sunday mornings at 9 & 10 a.m. 

The cost is $125 during the early registration period that runs thru September 1. After that, the cost is $150. For more information or to register, go to www.notredamebataviaboysbasketball.com.

Spooky season kicks off with haunted ghost walks and eerie presentations at HLOM

By Press Release

Press Release:

Correction: October 2 will be the Westside and October 17 will be for the Downtown stories.

On October 4 and 18, the Holland Land Office Museum will be conducting Downtown Ghost Walks. The walks begin at GO Art! to then venture through various streets! Listening to ghoulish and spooky stories from Batavia's Downtown past! The walk will be about two miles starting and ending at GO Art!, parking is in the parking lot across the street! Tickets will be $15 for non-members and $10 for members! You can find the link to purchase tickets on the museum website at www.hollandlandoffice.com. Better to be safe than sorry! Spots will fill fast like plots in a cemetery, so ensure you get a good one!

On October 11 and 25, join us at the Holland Land Office Museum to begin our West Side Batavia Ghost tour through various streets! Listening to ghoulish and spooky stories from Batavia's Westside past! The walk will be about two miles starting and ending at the museum! Tickets will be $15 for non-members and $10 for members! You can find the link to purchase tickets on the museum website at www.hollandlandoffice.com. Better to be safe than sorry! Spots will fill fast like plots in a cemetery, so ensure you get a good one!

Join us at the Holland Land Office Museum on Wednesday, October 2 or Thursday, October 17 at 7 p.m., as Connie Boyd shares the spooky, sinister, and weird documented stories from the Westside. Come and listen to tales of murder, ghosts, body-snatching hangings, and abandoned cemeteries. This presentation is the same as our Westside Ghost Walk, perfect for those who don't want to or cannot go on our guided Ghost Walks. Tickets are $5/$3 for museum members. If you would like to attend please contact the museum at 585-343-4727.

“This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by GO ART!”

Ellicott Avenue comes alive again in third annual boxcar derby

By Joanne Beck
Penelope Ortiz with boxcar
Penelope Ortiz, 8, of Batavia, leads off the practice round for this year's third annual BID Boxcar Derby Saturday on Ellicott Avenue in Batavia.
Photo by Nick Serrata

And they were off -- 24 boxcars zipping down Ellicott Avenue in a race to the finish, and for the Suozzi Memorial Cup, in the third annual BID Boxcar Derby Saturday in Batavia.

A crowd of spectators lined the avenue to cheer on the drivers, tucked into their colorful and creatively designed low-riders. 

Jay Gsell with controls at boxcar derby
Jay Gsell of Batavia is at the controls during the BID Boxcar Derby Saturday in Batavia. The ramps were set up at the top of Ellicott and Richmond avenues, and once released, the boxcars raced two at a time against one another to the bottom as a crowd of spectators cheered the drivers on.
Photo by Nick Serrata
Kids racing boxcars in Batavia
Photo by Nick Serrata
Kids with boxcars on sidelines
Photo by Nick Serrata
Kid in Superman boxcar
Photo by Nick Serrata
Facepainting at BID boxcar derby
There was also face painting during the boxcar derby in Centennial Park.
Photo by Nick Serrata

More than 600 collective years of experience celebrated at 400 Towers

By Joanne Beck
Residents at 400 Towers celebrating 90+
Seven nonagenarians, including Midge Cotter, 90, Frank Aquino, 92, Eleanor Day, 91, Joan Krause, 90, Hazel Preedom, 91, Julia Scalia, 91, and Betty Vanelli, 91, celebrate their birthdays Saturday at 400 Towers.
Photo by Nick Serrata

A yearly tradition at 400 Towers in Batavia meant the celebration of seven nonagenarians aged 90 or older Saturday at the east side apartment complex.

Midge Cotter, 90, Frank Aquino, 92, Eleanor Day, 91, Joan Krause, 90, Hazel Preedom, 91, Julia Scalia, 91, and Betty Vanelli, 91, enjoyed a lunch of turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, rolls, applesauce and a decorated cake. 

The lunch was provided by Midge Cotter as her 21st and final celebration served. The meal was served by Deb Smith, Linda Cotter and Shirley Boyd.

Happy birthday 90th cake at 400 Towers
Photo by Nick Serrata

Two repeat winners in Batavia Downs features

By Tim Bojarski
treasured-tee.JPG
Photo of Treasured Tee courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Co-features valued at $13,500 each topped the card at Batavia Downs on Saturday (Aug.17) night and the victorious parties of both events were no stranger to the winner’s circle.

First in the Open trot, Treasured Tee (Joe Chindno Jr.) tripped out to his second consecutive score at this level.

Crazy Ritz (Jim McNeight Jr,) was the leader through fractions of :28.3, :59 and 1:28.1 while Treasured Tee followed each step from the pocket and nobody from behind made any aggressive moves. At three-quarters, Chindano pulled Treasured Tee and matched strides with Crazy Ritz around the last turn and into the stretch. Then five pylons in, Treasured Tee bolted and won by a length in 1:57.

It was the eighth win of the year for Treasured Tee ($8.80) who is owned by his trainer Francis Guillemette in partnership with Stephane Geoffroy.

Two races later in the Open Handicap pace, The Longest Yard (Jim Morrill Jr.) went to the front and hung on in a squeaker.

The Longest Yard took control off the gate while Lip Reader A (Drew Monti) dropped in second for the mile. The Longest Yard set solid fractions of :28, :57.2 and 1:26 with Lip Reader A breathing down his neck and the rest of the field trying to keep pace. Lip Reader A tipped coming off the last turn and drew even with The Longest Yard as the pair hooked up in a duel to the wire. Lip Reader A tried hard, but The Longest Yard refused to lose and hung on by a neck in 1:54.1..

That made it two in a row for The Longest Yard ($4.30) and pushed him over the $300,000 mark in lifetime earnings ($303,468) for owner Mike Torcello, Sam Smith trains the winner.

Drivers Jim Morrill Jr. and Joe Chindano Jr. each had a grand slam in the bike while trainers Sam Smith and James Rothfuss won three races apiece.

Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Wednesday (Aug. 21) at 6 p.m.

Free full card past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

the-longest-yard.JPG
Photo of The Longest Yard courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Graham Corporation to present at the midwest IDEAS conference

By Press Release

Press Release:

Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM) (“GHM” or “the Company”), a global leader in the design and manufacture of mission critical fluid, power, heat transfer and vacuum technologies for the defense, space, energy and process industries, today announced that Daniel J. Thoren, President and Chief Executive Officer and Christopher J. Thome, Vice President – Finance and Chief Financial Officer, will present and host investor meetings at the Midwest IDEAS Conference at The Gwen in Chicago on Thursday, August 29.

The Company presentation is scheduled to begin at 10:45 a.m. Central Time.  A live audio webcast of the event with accompanying slides will be available at GHM Investor Relations.  An archive of the presentation will be available at the same link following the conference.

Genesee County resident serves to inspire others as Olympic champ

By Anthony Stone
 Jana Kolukanova
Jana Kolukanova
Submitted Photo

Jana Kolukanova may be synonymous with Olympic swimming and breaking records now, but when she first began in her homeland of Estonia, her athletic prowess leaned towards venues other than the pool, she says.

“I excelled at cross-country skiing and tennis, but the sports machine there told me I was a swimmer instead,” she said during an interview with The Batavian. “It took some time, but eventually I fell in love with swimming too.”

Her husband, Chris Haitz, a Genesee County native, introduced her to this area for a month during COVID in 2020, and that ended up being a whole summer visit, which in turn prompted the couple to buy a house, she said.

“It all happened organically. We had been living in Los Angeles since 2009 and never had any plans to leave, but life apparently did,” she said. “I had, of course been to this area many times over the years, and I was very open to the move. I love it here, as the people are nice and it reminds me of my home country.”

Her journey from watching the Olympics as a young girl proves that anyone's potential is within reach with the right mindset and support system.

Kolukanova’s  Olympic dream was sparked at a young age during a moment of inspiration that would alter the course of her life. 

"I remember watching the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and thinking, 'I think I can do this,'" she said. This realization, born from the excitement and love for the games, set Kolukanova on a path that took her from the swimming pools of her hometown to the global stage.

In the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, she reached the semifinals in the 50 meter freestyle, breaking two Estonian records. 

After this, college recruiters bombarded her. Auburn University won the prize, and their program won three national team championships with Kolukanova’s help. Plus, she finished a 19-time All-American, All-SEC selection, SEC Academic Honor Roll member, as well as an Academic All-American. 

She kept going.

At the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens, Jana finished 37th in Athens in the 100M freestyle. 

One year later, she broke her old Estonian records in the 50 meter and 100 meter freestyle at the FINA World Championships, where she finished eighth in the world in the 50-meter event. 

She advises aspiring Olympians to set low goals and chip away at them step by step. 

"Then, set higher goals, and you must have a big picture," she said.

This philosophy of incremental progress and an overarching vision became the cornerstone of her success. 

"Believe in yourselves," she said. "Thoughts have real power. If you think you can, you can do it." 

However, she is quick to caution that physical prowess alone is not enough: "If you're there physically but not mentally, you're not going to do it." 

She credits regular massages with helping her endure the physical demands of training and competition, allowing her to recover quickly. Additionally, she strictly followed her coaches' advice to eat within 20 minutes after training along with altitude training, practices she believes were crucial to her recovery and performance. 

She eventually caught the injury bug at the worst possible time.

"If an injury comes at the very wrong time, four years of work could be down the drain—that's what happened to me, right before the Beijing 2008 Olympics," she said.

"Injuries are always the most difficult as they affect you both physically, mentally, and emotionally," she said. "You can't control how serious an injury is or how long it will take to recover fully."

While she didn't compete, Kolukanova’s experience at the Paris Olympics reminded her of the bonds she formed throughout her career. 

"Reconnecting with friends, some of whom I hadn't seen in 20 years, was really great," she said. 

Many of these friends are now prominent figures in their respective countries, holding important positions in international sports. The camaraderie among former Olympians and the warm welcome from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and individual countries made the event unique.

She speaks highly of the opportunity to support Eneli Jefimova, a 17-year-old Estonian female swimmer who made the final 100M breaststroke in Paris. For Kolukanova, this meant more than cheering on a fellow athlete; passing the torch to the next generation.

"It was special to be there to encourage her and lend my support," she said. 

She also witnessed French swimmer and family friend, Léon Marchand, win four gold medals. Seeing Léon achieve such incredible success was a deeply emotional experience for her. "I was very happy for the entire family," she said, her voice filled with pride and joy. "I remember holding him as a baby."

After 14 years of living in Los Angeles, she looks forward to exploring Western New York with her husband, especially in the fall because "when I visited in October, it was warm and welcoming, and the colors are gorgeous."

Her commitment to the sport remains strong, and she hopes the construction of the new pool at the Batavia-based YMCA boosts swimming's popularity in the region. 

"Swimming is really popular in California," she said, expressing her desire to see similar enthusiasm in Western New York. She continues to find ways to contribute to the sport she loves, whether through mentoring young swimmers or promoting swimming in her community. 

With competition behind her, Kolukanova hopes to become an inspiration to others.

"I want my legacy to be that I was a lover of the sport, a positive light, and always an encourager of young swimmers," she said. 

Jana Kolukanova
Kristi Singi (left) is Jana’s former personal masseuse and current Estonian swim team masseuse; Merle Kalkurand (right) is project lead for Estonian Olympic delegation, and both are close friends of Jana. 
Submitted Photo
Jana Kolukanova
Jana Kolukanova
Submitted Photo

3rd annual BID boxcar derby to race into Batavia on Saturday with family fun

By Press Release
2023 boxcar derby
2023 File Photo of BID Boxcar Derby
Photo by Julia Ferrini

Press Release:

The Downtown Batavia Business Improvement District (BID) invites the community to join the festivities planned for the 3rd annual BID Boxcar Derby on Saturday, August 17.

The Derby will once again be held on Ellicott Avenue in Batavia, with 24 racers competing to win the Suozzi Memorial Cup. BID Director Shannon Maute says this year’s races will be fast-paced and fun. 

“We’re ready to celebrate all of our racers as they demonstrate their talents and sportsmanship,” Maute said. “This is going to be a great day. Seeing the amazing boxcar designs, the excitement on kids’ faces at our build day, and the families taking part all show why this event is so special.” 

The races will start at 10 a.m. and will feature 2 racers competing at a time from the peak of Ellicott Avenue. In addition to hosting the cheering crowd, Centennial Park will host free face painting and games, with pizza, ice cream, coffee and hot chocolate available from vendors. WBTA also be hosting a live broadcast from the race. 

To all motorists, Ellicott Avenue will be closed from 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. from Richmond Avenue to Washington Avenue for the safety of the racers and the spectators.

The BID Boxcar Derby is made possible by sponsorship by Alex’s Place, Batavia Downs, the Police Benevolent Association, WBTA, and several other businesses plus additional support comes from BID businesses and building owners, Mark Scuderi of the Greater Rochester Soap Box Derby, the City of Batavia, the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena, Adam Miller Toy & Bicycle, and a team of volunteers. 

"It truly takes a community to bring our great race together,” Maute said. “With the generous support of our sponsors, partners and volunteers, the BID Boxcar Derby will make lasting memories for our families and racers.”

SummerFest this weekend, accepting musical artists

By Joanne Beck

Eden Cafe & Bakeshop is hosting a SummerFest this weekend that will include several arts and crafts vendors, music, food, a bounce house, entertainment and basket raffles.

It’s set for 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday in the parking lot behind the shop at 242 Ellicott St., Batavia.

Organizers are still accepting musical artists and entertainers from the community for the open mic-style entertainment tent. There will be a PA system and engineer provided.

Confirmed vendors so far include:

  • Kelly Fox (Tarot, astrology, live plants, artwork – Batavia)
  • Mystic Dragon Lair (crystals and merchandise – Medina) Marcia Bohn (handcrafted books – Batavia)
  • Spirit and Abundance (artisan plant-based cheeses – Rochester)
  • Vagabum Crafts (functional fiber crafts – Scottsville)
  • Panda Mae Crystals & Creations (crystals, jewelry, spell jars – Batavia)
  • Pixel Perfect (nostalgic pixelated keychains & magnets – Batavia)
  • VP Creations (3-d printed miniatures & novelties – Le Roy)
  • Punkinhead Stuffies (crocheted miniatures & earrings – Rochester)
  • MidnightFox (Chainmaille & copper jewelry & more – Buffalo)
  • Eden Café & Bakeshop (popcorn, fresh squeezed lemonade & more – Batavia)
  • High Strung Products (Recycled Silver Jewelry – West Henrietta)
  • Readings by Donna & Amy (mediumship readings – Holley)
  • Elizabeth Wende Breast Care (info on breast cancer screenings – Batavia)
  • RESTORE Sexual Assault Services (free swag, games, resources and information – Batavia)
  • Church Street Images (local photography – Alexander)
  • Creations by Fireball (beaded pens, keychains, and more – Le Roy)
  • CCOR – Companion Care of Rochester (info on licensed homecare services – Batavia)
  • TRIO Adult Opportunity Center (free college and career access program – Batavia)
  • Vanessa & Lola’s Legacy (Raffle basket, succulents and vegan dog treats – Oakfield)
  • Sweet Pea Plant-Based Kitchen (free samples, granola bars, prepared meals – Rochester)

For more information, go to CarrrotDogCafe.com or call 585-815-4487.

2nd annual Ricky Palermo Foundation comedy night returns

By Press Release

Press Release:

On Saturday, September 21 the 2nd Annual Ricky Palermo Foundation Comedy Night will be held inside the Park Place room featuring comedy from Nick Marra, Dan Viola, and Tim Meier. 

Attendees will receive a buffet dinner, free drink, and $25 in Free Play. Sponsorship packages are also available, including signage, VIP seating, vocal recognition, and additional drink tickets.

“We had so much fun last year we decided to do it again,” said Ricky Palermo, President and CEO of the Ricky Palermo Foundation. “Through this great event we were able to raise awareness and much needed funds to help our community and continue to find a cure for spinal cord injuries. We look forward to seeing people back again this year at Batavia Downs.”

 Tickets are $60 and can be purchased by going to rickypalermofoundation.org/store-1. 

The Last Martini upsets in $102,500 NYSS at Batavia Downs

By Tim Bojarski
the-last-martini-1.jpg
Photo of The Last Martini courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

The Last Martini served up the first career loss to Cowgirl Hanover after she went gate to wire in the lone $102,500 division of the New York Sire Stakes for 2-year-old pacing fillies on Wednesday (Aug. 14) evening at Batavia Downs.

Sent off as the prohibitive 1-9 betting favorite, Cowgirl Hanover (Doug McNair) got away third as stablemate The Last Martini (Jason Bartlett) grabbed the lead and got to the quarter in :29. With the short field following in single file, Bartlett throttled down the half even more to a :59.1 saunter and still didn’t get any opposition from behind until well into the second circuit.

Halfway up the backstretch, McNair finally pulled Cowgirl Hanover, who quickly made her way to second in a now up tempo 28 flat third panel. As the pair made their way around the last turn, Cowgirl Hanover got to within one-half length of The Last Martini, but that would be as close as she would get. The Last Martini paced furiously down the lane and refused to give up any ground at all to Cowgirl Hanover and won by one-half length in a 1:54.4 mile that featured a :27.3 final quarter.

It was the second straight win for The Last Martini ($19.80) and it pushed her earnings to $110,399 for owner Glenview Livestock. Jared Bako trains the winner who was bred by Crawford Farms.

There were also four $20,000 Excelsior stakes on the card and these are the winners in order of race.

Huntingfortreasure (Huntsville-Worldly Treasure) won in 1:57.4 for driver Mark Macdonald, trainer Ray Schnittker and owner/breeder Steve Jones.

Fashion Terror (Huntsville-High Fashion Model) won in 1:58.1 for driver Jason Bartlett, trainer Mark Ford and owner/breeder All Star Racing.

Beantown Deuce (Huntsville-Don’t Think Twice A) won in 1:58.2 for driver Brett Beckwith, trainer George Ducharme and owner Michael Goldberg, who bred the filly with Andrew Harris.

Fansville (Huntsville-Caviart Elena) won in 1:55 for driver Jason Bartlett, trainer Joe Bongiorno and owner Chain Lightning Stables. Eric Tadeo bred the winner.

Jason Bartlett added one overnight victory and ended his night with a grand slam in the bike.

Another big winner on Wednesday was Huntsville, who sired all five NYSS and Excelsior winners and also 10 of the 15 horses who hit the board in those same five races.

Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Saturday (Aug. 17) at 6 p.m.

Free full card past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

Ghosts of history come alive at Batavia Cemetery's annual candlelight ghostwalk

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Batavia Cemetery Association is excited to announce that the annual Halloween Candlelight Ghostwalk will be held on Saturday, October 19!

Join us for some spooky fun on a ghost walk through the Historic Batavia Cemetery on Harvester Avenue to meet the famous and infamous movers and shakers who not only shaped and influenced the City of Batavia, but the United States and the world.

The guided tour on candlelit paths will bring guests to hear men and women, who, for various reasons, held great power and exerted great influence in their day, were victims of tragic events, or both.

Confederate Major Philemon Tracy, one of the few Confederate officers buried in the north; surveyor and land developer of western New York Joseph Ellicott, a man of great power and great flaws; and William Morgan, who disappeared and was allegedly murdered before he could reveal the secrets of the Masons, will tell their stories.

Listen to Utopian socialist Albert Brisbane; Mary Elizabeth Wood, the first librarian at the Richmond Memorial Library and founder of the first library school in China; and Dr. Martha Morgan, compassionate doctor who spent most of her professional life working at the State Lunatic Hospital in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.  

Meet Civil War General John H. Martindale, and maltster and brewer Eli Fish. Shipping and railroad magnate Dean Richmond and his wife Mary will greet guests in their beautiful mausoleum on the last stop of the tour.

Tours begin at 7 p.m. and run every fifteen minutes until 8:45 p.m. Admission is $15. Reservations are required. Proceeds benefit the upkeep and restoration of the cemetery. For more information or reservations, go to Events at bataviacemetery.org

BHS Class of 1984 reunites for 40th class reunion, register by Friday

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Batavia High School Class of 1984 is thrilled to announce their 40th reunion celebration! Mark your calendars for an evening filled with memories, laughter, and fun on Saturday, August 24, 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Mingle and Reconnect with Old Friends 

Alumni and guests are invited to gather for an informal get-together at the Terry Hills Golf Course & Banquet Facility 5122 Clinton Street in Batavia. This relaxed atmosphere is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with classmates, reminisce about old times, and create new memories.

Delicious Food and Drinks

Throughout the evening, enjoy a generous spread of hearty hors d'oeuvres complemented by a cash bar. Your ticket price of $30 includes food and one drink (house draft beer, house wine, or house liquor).

RSVP and Stay Connected

We encourage everyone from the Class of 1984 to attend this special event! To RSVP go to BHS Class of ’84 Reunion on Facebook where you can venmo your payment, to BHS Class of 84 Batavia NY. If you do not have a Venmo account, checks will be accepted payable to “BHS Class of 84 Batavia NY”. Please mail to: Kelly J. Bermingham, 8276 Park Road, Batavia. The deadline for registration is August 16!

To update your contact information, or ask any questions, please reach out to: 

Kelly J. Bermingham: 585-356-4722 or kbermingham@geneseeny.com

Jane Roach Johnson: 585-739-0378 or peerless@rochester.rr.com

Don't miss this chance to celebrate four decades of friendship and shared experiences with your Batavia High School classmates! 

HLOM selected for national collections assessment program

By Press Release

Press Release:

Holland Land Office Museum announces that it is one of 71 institutions in the United States selected to participate in the Collections Assessment for Preservation (CAP) program.

CAP helps museums improve the care of their collections by providing support for a general conservation assessment of the museum’s collections and buildings. The museum will work with a team of preservation professionals to identify preventive conservation priorities. The final assessment report will help the museum prioritize its collections care efforts in the coming years.

The CAP program will allow the museum to care and preserve the collections it holds in a greater condition than ever before! We are so excited to dive into this program and get to work at preserving and storing history more than ever before – Tyler Angora, Curator at the Holland Land Office Museum.

The CAP program is administered by the Foundation for Advancement in Conservation through a cooperative agreement with the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Dave McNeight III wins six at Batavia Downs

By Tim Bojarski
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Photo of Won Surreal Deal courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.

Dave McNeight III, aka “Triple Sticks”, doubled his nickname on Tuesday (Aug. 13) night after he struck six wins on his opponents at Batavia Downs. McNeight won with Italia Seelster (1:57.2, $4.00), Arco N (1:56.3, $3.50), Molly Kool (1:56.2, $12.40), Arnold (2:00.2, $17.20), Alexander Hanover (2:01, $10.20) and Bettor B Sawyer (1:57.3, $10.20). And from the 12 races he drove in, McNeight also finished second three times and third once, giving himself a stellar .667 UDR for the evening.

McNeight started the night in sixth place for wins among all drivers at the Downs for the current meet and jumped past Joe Chindano Jr. (9) and Drew Monti (10) into fourth with his current count (12) and now sits right behind Jim McNeight Jr. (13). The top two drivers are Jim Morrill Jr. (19) and Kevin Cummings (14).

The one race McNeight didn’t win was the $13,500 Open Handicap pace for fillies and mares that went to Tioga Downs based Won Surreal Deal (Kyle Cummings) who made her second start at Batavia Downs a winning one as she wreaked havoc on her opponents.

Won Surreal Deal took the lead off the gate before momentarily yielding to Summer Lovin (Kevin Cummings) at the :28 quarter. But as soon as that one cleared, Won Surreal Deal was out again and charged back to the front, where she would remain for the rest of the mile. Won Surreal Deal kept the pace honest to the half in :56.4 but then turned on the heat up the backstretch, where she pulled away to a three length lead as she passed three-quarters in 1:25 flat. Around the last turn, Won Surreal Deal kept tightening the screws and entered the lane on top by 4-½ lengths. As she made her way down the stretch, Won Surreal Deal swelled up and torched the field by seven wrapped-up lengths and tripped the light in 1:53.4.

It was the third win of the year for Won Surreal Deal ($5.50) who is owned by Parsimonious Stable and trained by Jeff Sorenson.

Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Tuesday (Aug. 13) at 6 p.m.

Free full card past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.

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