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For decades -- there is no record we know of for when the games started -- local basketball aficiandos have met every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in the gym at the YMCA to play hoops.

It is almost certainly the longest-running, ongoing pick-up basketball game in Batavia.

Joe Perzia, the longest-tenured regular player, has been hitting the court at the Y since the early 1990s.

Mike Roth, in his 70s, is the oldest active member, but on any given morning, there can be players in their young 20s trying to block out or drive on guys twice or even three times their age, and the matchups aren't always as uneven as they might sound.

The games are always spirited and intense but always friendly.  

Players start showing up on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 6 a.m., with games usually starting by 6:30 a.m.  In that time, they might fit in as many as three games before players start heading off to work.

On Monday, the current group of regulars played their last games at the old Y.  On Jan. 2 (which is actually a Tuesday, in a slight break with tradition), they will play their first games at the new Healthy Living Center.

To commemorate the last games in the old gym, in the manner of a celebration after a big championship win, the players cut down the nets in the old gym.

Submitted photos.

Tia E. Schmieder, 33, of Batavia, is charged with burglary 1st, attempted assault 1st, criminal possession of weapon 3rd, criminal mischief 4th, and menacing 2nd. Schmieder allegedly forced her way into a person's residence on State Street and slashed that person with a knife. She was arraigned and released.

Tyquan D. Bethel, 34, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 1st, unlawful imprisonment 2nd, criminal mischief 4th, and harassment 2nd. Bethel was arrested on Nov. 20 following a report of a disturbance on Pearl Street, Batavia. He allegedly violated an order of protection by holding a person down and refusing to let the person leave. He is also accused of preventing the person to call 9-1-1 by taking away the person's phone. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed.

Quincy G. Styles, 26, of Batavia, is charged with robbery 3rd. Styles allegedly stole money from another person at the scene of a motor vehicle accident on Nov. 21 by threatening to punch the driver if he didn't give him money. Styles was arraigned in City Court and released.

Joshua D. Michel, 34, of Batavia, is charged with tampering with physical evidence, tampering with public records 2nd, falsely reporting an incident 3rd, and endangering the welfare of a disabled person. Michel was charged after an investigation into three separate incidents at the Developmental Disabilities Services Office on New York Place in Batavia, where he was employed. 

John P. Wittkopp, 41, of Batavia, is charged with assault 2nd. Wittkopp is accused of fighting with another person on Nov. 7 on Spencer Court and causing serious injury. He was arraigned in City Court and held.

Thomas J. Mitchell, 35, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and grand larceny. Mitchell is accused of stealing tools from a vehicle on Oct. 9. He was arrested on Nov. 8, arraigned in City Court and released.

Nicholas C. Kingdollar, 29, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Kingdollar is accused of sending a letter to a person he was ordered not to contact while incarcerated at the Genesee County Jail. He was arrested on Nov. 24.

Sean M. Conway, no age or residence provided, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Conway was arrested on Nov. 22 on a warrant related to an incident reported on April 26 when he was allegedly found in possession of narcotics. He was arraigned and released.

Doreen M. Boop, 61, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Boop was arrested on Nov. 22 on a warrant related to an incident reported on April 26 when she was allegedly found in possession of narcotics. She was arraigned and released.

Meaghan A. Conti, 37, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Conti was arrested on Nov. 18. Conti was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a welfare check on East Main Street, Batavia. She was issued an appearance check.

Warren T. Cotton, 47, of Batavia, is charged with two counts of criminal contempt 2nd. Cotton is accused of violating a stay-away order of protection. Cotton was arrested on Nov. 5 and on Nov. 18. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed.

Brandon M. Seppe, 40, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd and trespass 2nd. Seppe is accused of entering a residence on Ellicott Street in violation of protection. He was issued an appearance ticket.

William T. Hughes, 68, of Batavia, is charged with forcible touching. He was arrested on Nov. 11 in connection to an incident on East Main Street reported on Nov. 9. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Jose A. Rivera, 38, of Bergen, is charged with harassment 2nd. Rivera was charged following a report of a fight on Sept. 26 at The Harvester on Harvester Avenue on Sept. 26. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Alicia M. Lyons, 45, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Lyons allegedly contact a person on Nov. 10 in violation of a stay-away order of protection. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Scott J. Hinze, 38, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd, criminal contempt 2nd, criminal tampering 3rd, and petit larceny. Hinze was arrested on a warrant following an incident in July where he allegedly damaged and tampered with property belonging to another person in violation of an order of protection. He was arraigned and released.

Curtis McCall, 37, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. McCall is accused of stealing property from Family Dollar in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Myrin D. Lumpkin, 46, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 27 on a warrant. Lumpkin allegedly failed to appear in court on a disorderly conduct charge stemming from a fight on West Main Street, Batavia, in August. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Zachary R Eichenberger, 40, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Eichenberger is accused of shoplifting from Aldi. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Lyndsay T. Young, 41, of Alexander, was arrested on a warrant on Nov. 26 charging her with criminal possession of a controlled substance. Her arrest stemmed from an investigation into an incident on July 26, where she was allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine. She was arraigned and released.

Francis A. Coombs, 57, of Batavia, was arrested on Dec. 3 on a warrant. Coombs allegedly failed to appear in court on a criminal mischief 4th charge from August. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed.

Joseph C Jeffords, 33, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd. Jeffords was charged following a traffic stop on Nov. 26 on Kingsbury Avenue, Batavia, by a Batavia patrol officer.He was allegedly found in possession of drug paraphernalia and crack cocaine. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Sarah A. Malone, 42, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant on Nov. 26 on charges of aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd and driving without an interlock device. The warrant stems from an incident on Aug. 30 in Batavia. Malone allegedly drove a vehicle on a suspended license and without an ignition interlock. She was arraigned and released.

Amanda S. Dombrowski, 41, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 26 on a warrant. She was charged with bail jumping after allegedly not appearing on prior charges. She was arrested on May 2, 2020, and charged with menacing 3rd and endangering the welfare of a child. She was arraigned in City Court and jailed.

Thomas E. Lowe, 65, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Lowe is accused of damaging the interior of a store on East Main Street, Batavia, on Nov. 25.  He was issued an appearance ticket.

Nicholas M. Ricigliano, 40, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 30 on a warrant. Ricigliano is accused of failure to appear in court on a petit larceny charge from Aug. 21. He was arraigned and released.

Marissa B. Torres, 34, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Torres allegedly violated an order of protection on Nov. 12. She was arraigned and released.

Dontre R. Woods, 34, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 12 on a warrant. Woods allegedly failed to appear in court in August. Woods was arraigned and released.

Russell S. Neureuther, 26, of Byron, is charged with aggravated DWI. Neureuther was stopped on Nov. 2 by a Batavia patrol officer on Elm Street. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Hillary D. Russell, 31, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Russell is accused of throwing an item at another person on Nov. 7 during a fight on Hutchins Street, Batavia. Russell was arraigned in City Court and released.

Ian J. Stothers, 22, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 2nd, reckless endangerment of property, and necessary noise. Stothers and two other people are accused of damaging a parking lot belonging to the city of Batavia on Nov. 9. Strothers was arraigned and released.

Angel R. Del Valle Castillo, 18, of Batavia, is charged with possession of a forged instrument 2nd and possession of a forged instrument 3rd. Castillo was charged following a traffic stop on Nov. 3. He is accused of driving a vehicle with a fictitious license plate and providing officers with a forged insurance card. He was arraigned and released.

Megan J. Courtney, 28, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property 5th and petit larceny. Courtney is accused of allegedly stealing merchandise from Dollar General on Dec. 1. Police officers were initially unable to determine her identification, but she returned to the store the next day attempting to return the stolen items.  Courtney was issued an appearance ticket.

Kody A Wenzel, 32, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant on Dec. 8 and charged with criminal possession of controlled substance 7th. Wenzel was allegedly found in possession of methamphetamine on Aug. 4, 2023. Wenzel was arraigned and released.

Robin F. Schmitt, 40, of Oakfield, is charged with petit larceny. Schmitt is accused of stealing merchandise from Dollar General on Dec. 3. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Lisa M. Fox, 53, of Albion, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, tampering with physical evidence, criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd, obstructing governmental administration 2nd, and traffic violations. Fox was stopped on Dec. 5 on Richmond avenue and allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Dana L. Manes, 60, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and conspiracy 6th. Manes is accused of stealing merchandise from Tops on Dec. 10. Manes was issued an appearance ticket.

Two city of Batavia PD police officers sustained minor injuries in an assault late Saturday morning at a location on Trumbull Parkway during what the police describe as a "mental health incident." 

The name of the suspect was not released. Police say the suspect is being evaluated at Strong Memorial Hospital. Charges are likely upon the suspect's release from the hospital, police said.

Further details about the incident be released later, police said, saying the investigation is ongoing.

The two officers were treated at UMMC and released.

The police department was assisted at the scene by City Fire, Mercy EMS, the city of Batavia Code Enforcement Office and the city of Batavia Public Works Department. 

"We appreciate the community's cooperation and understanding in this matter," police said.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call 585-345-6350.

View 2995 West Main Street Road, Batavia.
View 260 Ross Street, Batavia.
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Press release:

Batavia Downs President and CEO Byron Brown has announced the eighth Rockin’ the Downs concert series lineup. The shows, eight in all, will be held on Friday nights outside in the middle of the Batavia Downs horse racing track.  Concerts will start in June and run into August of 2025.  

Kicking off the series on Friday, June 20, will be Queensrÿche. With over 30 million albums sold worldwide, Queensrÿche continues to tour the globe to sold-out audiences. The band has earned multiple Grammy Award nominations and consistently delivers high-octane live shows, combining the hungry fire of a new band with the tempered experience of master showmen.  Hear songs like the #1 chart-topping hit Silent Lucidity, Queen of the Reich and Eyes of a Stranger.

Making their Summer Concert Series debut on Friday, June 27, is the Allman Betts Band.  Devon Allman and Duane Betts, the sons of Allman Brothers co-founders keyboardist Gregg Allman and guitarist Dickey Betts, have formed a supergroup anchored by sharp songwriting, fiery fretwork, and a historical legacy.  Having toured all over the United States, they’ve created a new soundtrack for the American South, blurring the lines between genres.  Come hear great original songs, along with some made famous by their fathers.

After a one-week break for Independence Day, the concert series continues when Almost Queen, a tribute to Queen, takes the stage on Friday, July 11th. Experience Queen's magic comes alive with stunning four-part harmonies and electrifying precision. Donning authentic costumes, they'll transport you back to Queen's glory days with every legendary hit. Don't miss this spectacular return to our concert series.

On Friday, July 18, Batavia Downs welcomes back America’s top Pink Floyd Show, The Machine.   Over 30 years, they have extended the legacy of Pink Floyd while creating another legacy all their own. Over the years, The Machine has touched the hearts and souls of many with its stellar musicianship, dramatic lighting, lasers and video performances.

On Friday, July 25, Batavia Downs welcomes Little River Band.  Formed in Melbourne, Australia in 1975, this blend of musicians achieved success with good songwriting, powerful vocals, and guitar harmonies. They immediately claimed their place as one of the great vocal bands of the ‘70s and ‘80s.  Hear their hits like Take It Easy On Me, It’s a Long Way There, Help Is on Its Way, Happy Anniversary, Lonesome Loser, and more.  The opening will be the American Rock Band Ambrosia, playing hits like How Much I Feel and Biggest Part of Me.

On August 1st, Batavia Downs proudly welcomes Rochester Native and 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Lou Gramm.  The Grammy-nominated original voice of Foreigner has brought his amazing voice to the rock scene for more than 40 years.  With Gramm at the helm, Foreigner's first eight singles cracked the Billboard Top 20, making them the first band since The Beatles to achieve this.  Come hear the hits he made famous, like Hot Blooded, Feels Like the First Time, Cold as Ice, Double Vision, Head Games, Juke Box Hero and more.

Legendary Motown artists, The Commodores, roll into Batavia Downs on Friday, August 8th.  With over 70 Million Albums sold, including 7 #1 hits, these Pop and Motown Icons will surely delight.  One of the most successful vocal groups of all time, The Commodores continue to thrill audiences with their Greatest Hits Tour.  Be sure to hear hits like Easy, Three Times a Lady, Sail On and Brick House among many others. 

The legendary rock band Kansas will be closing out the concert series on Friday, Aug. 15.   With a legendary career spanning five decades, KANSAS has firmly established itself as one of America’s iconic classic rock bands. This "garage band" from Topeka released their debut album in 1974 and have gone on to sell more than 30 million albums worldwide.  Kansas has played to sold-out arenas and stadiums throughout North America, Europe and Japan.  Their iconic hits include Carry on Wayward Son, Point of Know Return, Dust in the Wind, and many more.

“I’m excited about the 2025 Summer Concert Series at Batavia Downs, especially with legendary bands like Kansas and the Commodores coming here for the very first time,” said Brown.  “The Concert Series at Batavia Downs has quickly become a Western New  York summertime destination.  I want to thank the Board of Directors for approving the concert series and I look forward to seeing all our fans starting in June.”

“As Chairman of the Board, I’m thrilled with the eight concerts that will be coming to Batavia Downs this summer,” said Dennis Bassett, Chairman of the WROTB Board of Directors.  “As a Rochester resident, I’m especially happy that Rochester native Lou Gramm will be returning to perform at Batavia Downs in August.”

“I want to thank the great staff here at Batavia Downs for creating such a great line up in 2025,” said Ed Morgan, Vice-Chairman of the WROTB Board of Directors.  “I look forward to seeing record crowds this year.”

Tickets for all eight concerts will be available only at www.BataviaConcerts.com beginning on Friday, Dec. 20 at 1 p,m.  All tickets can be redeemed at Player’s Club at any time in the three days following the concert for $10 Free Play to be used on one of Batavia Downs Gaming’s 920+ gaming machines.

Season Tickets are also back and will also go on sale for General Admission and VIP Sections.  A Season pass for General Admission will be $145 (a savings of $20) Season Passes for VIP tickets are $220 (a savings of $20).  Season passes may ONLY be purchased online.

Concerts are held rain or shine.  Additional information may be found at www.BataviaDownsGaming.com.

Ten goats died in a barn fire on Thursday night at 3602 Rose Road, Batavia.

Homeowners Shey and Gina Doane said they also had antiques stored in the barn along with some belongings of Shey's late father.

The fire was reported at 9:13 p.m.

Deputy Fire Coordinator Dan Coffey said the homeowner spotted smoke when he returned home and that the barn was fully involved a few minutes later when the first firefighters arrived on the scene.  The barn was a total loss.

Shey said he had returned from taking his son's girlfriend home when he found the fire.

The cause and origin of the fire is under investigation, Coffey said.

Town of Batavia Fire responded with mutual aid from East Pembroke and Alexander. Oakfield and Stafford provided fill-ins for the responding departments.

There may have been one minor firefighter injury, a slip-and-fall, Coffey said, but he was not treated at the scene.

Crews cleared the scene at 1 a.m.

The Doanes said the goats were rescues rejected by their mothers, so they were raised inside the barn and bottle fed. Gina said the goats were like her kids.

Photos by Kara Richenberg. Kara Richenberg contributed to the story.

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A man wanted by Batavia PD on a weapons charge since September 2023 is in custody after being located by U.S. Marshals.

Batavia PD has released little information on the case. 

Royse, age and area of residence not disclosed, was wanted on a charge of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree. The release about his arrest does not state what charges he is being held on or what incident the charges stem from.

A reward of $2,500 was offered for his capture. Batavia PD does not say whether the reward will be paid, but the release thanks the community for tips and Le Roy PD for assisting in the investigation.

There is no information on where Royse was located.

At the time the search for Royse was announced, he was on parole for a conviction on burglary in the second degree and had an active parole warrant out for his arrest.

Thursday was carved out of the week to celebrate a partnership that literally has merged Rochester Regional Health United Memorial Medical Center and GLOW YMCA programs under one roof to provide a holistic approach to wellness through educational, physical and supportive offerings in one Downtown Batavia space.

Chip Davis, chief executive officer of RRH, spoke of pride in the movement to help reshape rural health care in the United States and closer to home in New York.

“Our organization has a purpose to uplift humanity through care for the community. As an organization, I would tell you, we try to live that way each and every day. And I believe that this facility and all the things that Dan and his team and our sponsors at the Y are doing really represent what we're trying to facilitate in Batavia and beyond,” he said during a ribbon-cutting of the new Healthy Living campus at Main and Wiard streets. “A lot has changed since 2014 when we first announced United Memorial Medical Center would merge into Rochester Regional Health. It has been quite a 10-year journey, as I understand it, and I do believe that both organizations have been firmly committed to truly some remarkable activities for the residents of Batavia and beyond." 

Expanding telemedicine options and leveraging innovative approaches to help facilitate access to world-class quality care sets the ultimate goal “to help improve the quality of life of all the residents within the region,” he said.

“Our efforts are absolutely grounded in a spirit of collaboration and partnership. The Healthy Living campus here at Batavia is truly, I think, a testament to that collaboration overall ... we have tried to create a space that is not just for medical care but for our comprehensive wellness experience. And I will tell you that there are a few places around the country that have this type of model where you can go from your workout to your primary care," he said. "There's a number of innovative activities here, including an intergenerational center, group exercise room, and, of course, the preschool facility.

 "So at Rochester Regional Health, we truly believe that treating illness is not just about medical care, it is about healthier outcomes for everyone," he said. "We believe that this is the future of healthcare. This is what it looks like. It's innovative, it's collaborative, and it's focused on the needs of each and every one of you.”

Dan Ireland, president and chief operating officer of Finger Lakes Rural Hospitals, thanked Davis for helping to fulfill the vision and “champion the idea of innovation and thinking differently.”

This new place is a location where one can feel the out-of-box thinking that came together for the group of people he worked with, Ireland said. That included Rob Walker, chief executive officer for GLOW YMCA.

“And I think, as Rob and I have talked over the years, this concept, this idea, came from our community voice from the day we came together to talk about a simple idea of what more could we do to the hundreds, and I mean hundreds of people in the Batavia and Genesee County community that came together to really bring forth what's important. What do we want to see, even down to where should it be?" Ireland said. "We really decided through a voice of this community and really helping us grow and develop along the way. I want to thank you, especially for our partnership. As I referenced Rob, we've been along this journey. We talk about the fact that as the date this will open, it will have been 10 years from that first conversation and such an important journey along the way, and I can't think of a better partner." 

Healthy Living has moved several programs under the roof of this new $33.5 million building next to the old YMCA awaiting demolition this spring. Programs include diabetes education, prevention and support groups, nutrition and basic life support classes, a cancer services and MOMS program, childbirth and infant feeding class and Baby Cafe.

“From the early morning phone calls to the drive on the way home phone calls, we had to say, 'let's solve this hurdle. Who do we get involved there?' And you know, the nicest part about that is we've been able to lean on you, our partners in the community, to help us solve challenges that every project has along the way, and I’m so, so grateful for that,” Ireland said. “Our work here in Batavia, from a health system standpoint, is not just providing that medical care, but it's really providing an integrated health care model, and that's the vision this was built on."

 He said they would integrate primary care medicine and healthy outreach, two of Rochester Regional's core services, to partner with the wellness community. They answered that the Teaching Kitchen helps teach people to cook better for healthier lifestyles so "they can live to be the very best that they can be."

 "And that ripples out into our community, that ripples out into a healthier community that can really do wonderful things as we go down the road,” he said.

“This is just the shell of the future of how health and wellness come together,” he said. “But this shell will grow into something that we will do to make a difference in healthcare, make a difference to you, your friends, neighbors and our loved ones, and help us grow health and wellness in a rural community such as Batavia.”

The new GLOW YMCA has preschool and child care programs, a pool and splash pad, and boasts “state-of-the-art” weight and cardio equipment and an EGYM station, walking track, full court gym, dance and exercise studios, and men’s, women’s and family locker rooms.

This type of project was talked about for years — creating a space where people of all ages could come together and build lasting connections — Walker said.

“And now, thanks to your unwavering community support and the hard work of countless individuals, that dream has become a reality,” he said. “This Healthy Living campus will create a hub of activity, offering first-class programs and services for our youth, resources for our seniors and spaces for our families to create memories, from aquatics programming to youth sports to fitness programs and the medical services provided by Rochester Regional Health UMMC, these walls will echo with the sounds of laughter, learning and healthy living. 

"But let's not forget the journey that brought us here," Walker said. "It took the vision of our community leaders, our donors, the city and community support and the state acquiring DRI funding and other grants, and the sweat and determination of our construction team.”

Vincent Esposito of Empire State Development said that it's been a long time coming and has taken a lot of work and a lot of vision to get here. Batavia received a Downtown Revitalization Initiative grant in 2017, nearly eight years ago, and this project was one of the main reasons this community was selected, he said, because of a winning application.

“And to see it come to fruition, and to see it be, honestly, bigger and more beautiful than I even expected it to be, is really gratifying,” he said. “I can only imagine how good it feels for those of you who’ve been involved in this project. I'd like to thank my colleagues in New York State government who helped work on this … It really is transformational for a lot of communities," he said. "I know it's helped to really spur a lot of great things in Batavia. You know, there’s well over $5 million from New York State just in this one project. It's pretty cool to see it happen. So congratulations. Best of luck to everyone who gets to utilize this facility. It's really spectacular.”

The Healthy Living campus is now open, and the new YMCA opens Jan. 2. The old YMCA is set to be demolished in the spring. 

If you've been hearing helicopters overhead Thursday evening in Genesee County, often in Batavia, there's an explanation, according to a source.

The CH-47 Chinooks are partaking in military drills, the source said.   

TICKETS FOR THE 2025 WINGS OVER BATAVIA AIR SHOW GO ON SALE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC ON FRIDAY
Labor Day Weekend Air Show to Feature the USAF F-35A Lightning II Demo Team

BATAVIA – On Friday, December 20, tickets for the 2025 Wings over Batavia Air Show will go on sale online to the general public at 8:00 AM for the August 30 -31, 2025, show at Batavia Airport.  The 2025 show features the United States Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demo Team, the award winning Pyromusical show finale each evening that intermixes flying with fireworks, pyro, drones, and a specially curated soundtrack, and additional performers to be announced in the coming weeks. 

 Beginning Friday, tickets can be purchased at www.wingsoverbatavia.com/tickets.  A variety of different seating packages is available, from general admission to premium club and box seats. Children twelve and under are admitted into the general admission of the air show for free.  For companies and organizations seeking upscale hospitality options, branding opportunities and on-site exposure, corporate partnership opportunities are available. Email info@WingsOverBatavia.com for additional information. 

 Air show enthusiasts are encouraged to sign up to become an Air Show Insights member.  Members receive updates on air show performances, notices of special promotions, and access to advance ticket sales.  Membership is free at www.WingsOverBatavia.com.  The full lineup of 2025 Wings over Batavia performers will be announced in the coming weeks and featured at www.wingsoverbatavia.com/performers, and additional show details are available by visiting www.WingsOverBatavia.com and the show’s social media channels.

 About the USAF Lightning II Demo Team

The USAF F-35A Lightning II Demo Team travels the world demonstrating the incredible capabilities of the F-35A, the first and only stealth, supersonic, multi-role fighter jet on the planet. The F-35A can reach speeds up to 1,200 MPH, and its helmet mounted display system is the most advanced system of its kind. Accordingly, each year air shows everywhere compete for the F-35, but only a select few are approved by the Air Force.

Additional images and b-roll of the USAF F-35A Lightning II Demo Team are available by contacting Rob Nichols at (330) 760-7582 or Rob@herbgillen.com.

Press Release:

On Friday, December 20, tickets for the 2025 Wings over Batavia Air Show will go on sale online to the general public at 8 a.m. for the August 30 - 31, 2025, show at Batavia Airport. The 2025 show features the United States Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demo Team, the award-winning Pyromusical show finale each evening that intermixes flying with fireworks, pyro, drones, and a specially curated soundtrack, and additional performers to be announced in the coming weeks.

Beginning Friday, tickets can be purchased at www.wingsoverbatavia.com/tickets.  A variety of different seating packages is available, from general admission to premium club and box seats. Children twelve and under are admitted into the general admission of the air show for free.  For companies and organizations seeking upscale hospitality options, branding opportunities and on-site exposure, corporate partnership opportunities are available. Email info@WingsOverBatavia.com for additional information.

Air show enthusiasts are encouraged to sign up to become an Air Show Insights member.  Members receive updates on air show performances, notices of special promotions, and access to advance ticket sales.  Membership is free at www.WingsOverBatavia.com.  The full lineup of 2025 Wings over Batavia performers will be announced in the coming weeks and featured at www.wingsoverbatavia.com/performers, and additional show details are available by visiting www.WingsOverBatavia.com and the show’s social media channels.

Press Release:

Main Street Pizza in Batavia has once again demonstrated its commitment to the local community with a generous donation to Genesee Cancer Assistance. Owner Vic Marchese presented a donation from his "Pink Box" campaign, contributing a portion of sales from October to support cancer patients in need.

For the entire month of October, Main Street Pizza donated $1 from every large pizza sold to Genesee Cancer Assistance, which provides financial support to families caring for a loved one battling cancer. 

Before the presents were handed out to the hundreds of children inside City Church's St. Anthony's Community Center, Pastor Ryan Macdonald reminded the families gathered in the gym why there is a yearly Christmas celebration.

He shared from Matthew 1:20-24. The passage where Joseph learns that Mary will conceive a child through the Holy Spirit is a bit of stunning news that Joseph took some time to consider after an angel told him not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife.  Macdonald said Joseph was considering the truth.

"The truth that Jesus was coming to the earth," Macdonald said. "The truth is that Jesus is the Christ of Christmas, and he came for you and me. If you go through this season and you don't recognize what Joseph did, he recognized the truth, you'll miss the reason for the season."

Macdonald also thanked the more than a dozen sponsors who provided the funds to buy the presents for the children.

"Let me tell you something: without Jesus, this night's not possible," Macdonald said. "Without Jesus Christ, we couldn't come together like this. Without Jesus Christ, I couldn't go to people and say, 'Hey, will you help us make this night possible?'"

The stage was full of hundreds of toys.  One side of the court was lined with 30 bicycles waiting for their new owners, and after Macdonald's message and short prayer, the families lined up in front of the stage to take their turns for the children to pick out their own presents. The church compiled a list of children who were getting bikes.

The night included face painting, games, pictures with Santa, hot chili, and basketball.

Photos by Howard Owens.

With just a week to go before Christmas, the folks at St. James Episcopal want to throw one last musical get-together to feature the church’s grand organ and three pianos, plus vocalists, during a concert this week.

Carols and Keyboards will be at 7 p.m. Friday at the church, 405 E. Main St., Batavia. 

Led by choir director John Novak, the one-hour concert includes four musicians performing “mostly familiar Christmas carols,” with piano duets, piano and organ duets and vocal solos, Novak said.

Church musicians Peter Geise, Jeff Thompson, and Tim Smith, all from the Western New York area, will join Novak to perform and lead some songs and sing-alongs with the audience.

The line-up includes “O Holy Night,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Go Tell it on The Mountain,” “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” “and other seasonal favorites,” Novak said.

“There will be a piece with all four musicians playing ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas,’” he said. “It’s a fun closing piece.”

Novak, the business administrator at Letchworth Central School District, has been the choir director at St. James for about three years. He had been commuting to a church in Buffalo, and when he moved to Silver Lake, he found a job and a closer location in Batavia.

“It’s a great fit,” he said. “There are a lot of wonderful people.”

Church member Maureen Scoville added that, in addition to carols and keyboards, cookies will be served in the parish hall after the concert. 

She and Novak hope to see community members there to enjoy some festive music and sweet treats as the calendar draws closer to a busy Christmas week.

There is no admission to the concert. A free will offering will be taken. 

The plea deal Michael Elmore made to avoid a 25-year prison term capped his sentence at 20 years, and that is precisely what County Court Judge Donald O'Geen handed down Tuesday morning.

Elmore admitted to his role in causing the death of Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello at Batavia Downs in March when he entered a guilty plea on Nov. 18 to aggravated manslaughter in the first degree.

In court, after O'Geen had heard from members of Sanfratello's family, from District Attorney Kevin Finnell, and from Elmore's own attorney, who said he believed Elmore was truly remorseful, Elmore apologized to the family for his actions.

That apology appeared not to sway O'Geen, who noted that Elmore seemingly left Batavia Downs in the early morning of March 10 to dispose of a pellet gun he was carrying and then returned swinging heavy gold necklaces heading straight toward Sanfratello and a security guard with the intent of fighting them.

Finnell said the pellet gun could have looked like a real gun if Sanfratello had seen it during a confrontation, so Elmore needed to dispose of it before starting a fight to protect himself.

The incident began in 34 Rush, a bar inside Batavia Downs, and Finnell noted that surveillance footage reveals not just the initial incident but the degree to which Sanfratello was known in the community and that he was highly regarded.  People are seen shaking his hand and patting him on his back as he escorts Elmore and Elmore's fiance, Lyndsey Wilcox, from the facility. 

Finnell argued that Elmore should receive the maximum sentence of 20 years in prison under the terms of the plea deal.

The initial incident in the bar, he said, at most would have resulted in an appearance ticket but Elmore chose to escalate the situation.

Elmore chose that route even as Sanfratello was showing great patience with Elmore and Wilcox, doing his duty as a dedicated public servant but not in an over heated way, but remaining calm and cheerful.

Sanfrantello was just doing his job, Finnell told the court.

Three of the sergeant's children addressed the court, delivering victim impact statements.

Ian Sanfrantello, a corrections officer and volunteer firefighter who was dispatched with the Town of Batavia Fire Department to Batavia Downs on March 10, so the first in his family to learn of his father's death.

He said he stood in the lobby just about 10 feet away as Mercy EMS medics worked desperately to save his life.

"I was the one who had to make the excruciating call to my sister, waking her from her peaceful sleep to tell her that our dad was gone," Ian said.

It fell on Ian to tell the rest of the Sanfratello family "the heartbreaking news."  He also comforted deputies who were visibly shaken by what had just happened.

"But the hardest thing I had to do that night was wake my grandmother and tell her that her baby boy -- her son -- had been taken from us while doing what he loved."

Ian said he's still trying to make sense of the tragedy.

"I find myself asking why anyone would do something so heartless to someone they didn't even know," Ian said. "But that's the nature of criminals, and the man responsible for this is a career criminal.

"My dad dedicated his life to making Genesee County a safer place for everyone," he added. "Because of the actions of these two individuals, the people of this county lost a true hero -- someone who loved what he did and made a difference every day. And I lost my dad."

Kyla Sanfratello said it was hard to process the news that morning that she had lost her dad, as the text messages of condolences poured in.  She thinks about all that was taken from her -- her dad someday walking her down the aisle, meeting his grandchildren for the first time some day, the kiss goodbye and the hugs. 

"Not having him text me on my birthday or see him for all the holidays has been so hard and will still be hard because the truth is, he should still be standing here today, but he's not because he was taken," Kyla said.

Alexis Sanfratello called Elmore's actions "selfish." 

"I am not sure why people think they do not have to obey the police. If you had only listened," she said, "my dad would still be here."

Elmore's sentence includes five years on probation upon his release. On his conviction for obstruction of governmental administration he received a sentence of 364 is jail, to be merged with his state prison term. He must pay mandatory fees and surcharges of $375. The judge signed multiple orders of protection for members of Sanfratello's family and witnesses to the crime.

Wilcox entered a guilty plea on Nov. 18 to assault in the second degree, a Class D violent felony. She pleaded to “causing physical injury to a police officer who was in the act of performing his official duties.” 

She is scheduled for sentencing at 10 a.m. on Jan. 21.

Press Release:

The Wings over Batavia Air Show announced today that the U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demonstration Team will headline the 2025 show. The announcement was made this week at the International Council of Air Show’s (ICAS) annual convention in Las Vegas where the Air Force confirmed the F-35A’s participation in next summer’s show at Batavia Airport, August 30-31.

The USAF F-35A Lightning II Demo Team travels the world demonstrating the incredible capabilities of the F-35A, the first and only stealth, supersonic, multi-role fighter jet on the planet. The F-35A can reach speeds up to 1,200 MPH, and its helmet mounted display system is the most advanced system of its kind. Accordingly, each year air shows everywhere compete for the F-35, but only a select few are approved by the Air Force.

“We are thrilled to showcase the F-35 at this summer’s show,” said Dennis Dunbar, Director of Wings over Batavia Air Show.  “Shows across the world compete for the F-35A Lightning II Demo Team, and it speaks to the great confidence the Air Force has in our team in Batavia to help showcase this technological marvel here in 2025.  We cannot wait for our crowds to witness the incredible power and capabilities of this aircraft.”

Tickets for the 2025 show will soon be available on the Wings over Batavia Air Show website www.wingsoverbatavia.com/tickets. Corporate partnership opportunities are available for companies and organizations seeking upscale hospitality options, branding opportunities, and on-site exposure. Visit www.wingsoverbatavia.com/sponsorship for more information.

The full lineup of 2025 Wings over Batavia performers will be announced in the coming weeks and featured at www.wingsoverbatavia.com/performers.  Additional show information is available by visiting www.wingsoverbatavia.com and the show’s social media channels. Air show enthusiasts are encouraged to become members of Air Show Insights, where they can receive updates and promotions in advance of the 2025 show. Membership is free at www.wingsoverbatavia.com.  

Attachment: high resolution image of the F-35. Additional images and b-roll of the USAF F-35A Lightning II Demo Team are available by contacting Rob Nichols at (330) 760-7582 or Rob@herbgillen.com.

Press release:

The City Church Christmas Events this week!

Tuesday is our Annual Christmas Toy Giveaway at the Community Center on 114 Liberty St. in Batavia.  We will have food, fun, Santa, hats, gloves, bikes and toys to giveaway.  Every child walks away with a gift and all are welcome to come on out to celebrate the season!

Thursday is our Christmas Concert with local vocal artists.  This will be a night of Christmas music, and we will have a time of community afterward with some soups and chili.  This will begin at 7 p.m. at 210 East Main St. in Batavia.

Sunday is our CHRISTMAS SERVICE - “EXPERIENCE JOY THIS CHRISTMAS”  with treats, Santa, a Kids Party at 10 a.m. and an encouraging message inspired by the word of God.  All are welcome at 210 East Main St at 8:30 & 10 a.m.  

There is no better time than the present to allow God to be a part of your life! Let’s come together this Christmas Season.

Press release:

UConnectCare recognized 18 employees with longevity awards at its annual holiday luncheon on Tuesday at Terry Hills Restaurant in Batavia.

Among those honored was President/Chief Executive Officer John Bennett, who joined the nonprofit agency in 1999 after starting his professional career 14 years earlier as an adolescent and jail counselor.

In 2006, Bennett assumed the oversight of the Residential Services and in 2012, he was hired to be executive director and now serves as CEO.

In her introductory speech, Virginia Taylor, a former UConnectCare board president, cited Bennett’s passion and caring nature as hallmarks of his career.

“John’s passion for creating the full continuum of services so individuals don't have to leave their community has been the driving force behind all that he has accomplished,” she said. “We are extremely proud of the organization under John's leadership, and his commitment to our community is nothing short of exemplary.”

Bennett expressed his appreciation for all those who have dedicated their lives to helping others become sober and to live productive lives.

“As my career winds down – and some of your careers are just starting -- I just hope that we continue to have people coming into this work because it is so important,” he said.

“Most of the time we’re just planting seeds, and we just want to leave the door open for these people to come back. That’s the key to the work we do. It’s never to judge people or make people feel demeaned. If you’re kind to them -- if you love them -- they’ll come back to see you again.”

Other UConnectCare employees recognized for longevity:

25 years – Amy Klos, customer relations manager.

20 years – Leslie Pfalzer, Information Technology director.

15 years – Diane Hooper, Batavia clinic secretary.

10 years – Dana Joy, Albion clinic supervisor; Sheila Harding, assistant director of Prevention.

5 years – Jessica Budzinack; coordinator of Outreach & Family Support; Lisa Fitzak, secretary; Mike Pettinella; media specialist; Christen Foley, Prevention Resource Center project director; Keith Lyons, driver; Lucy Sweeney, counselor; Nick Volpe, The Recovery Station operations manager; Sue Gagne; outreach RN; Jake Nadolinski, residential cleaner; Cheyenne Richardson, residential counselor; Rachel Tebor, residential technician; Rob Shields, residential technician.

Submitted photos.