The Village of Corfu held its Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony on Monday. The parade kicked off at noon, with the ceremony immediately following at the Pembroke Intermediate School.
Photos by Kara Richenberg.
Tom Sargent (on the right), Mayor of Corfu.
Lilly Senko, PHS Veterans Outreach Club President, speaking at the Memorial Day Ceremony.
Commemoration of America's Conflicts
William Joyce's reading of the deceased Corfu Veterans.
Mary Lichtenstein struggled and suffered most of her life with depression, and did so in silence, coming from a family at a time when one didn’t “air the dirty laundry,” and masking repercussions of having been in a car accident as a teenager by being “a walking pharmacy,” she says.
Yet despite the prescription drugs, there were the side effects, migraines from a head injury, and not much relief, rendering her feeling as if “I didn’t want to be here,” she said. It was her husband Mark that found out about Donna Eden, founder of the Eden Method, a way to use one’s body energy to live a “long, healthy and joyful life,” according to her website.
“It was the best gift he ever gave me, besides my daughter, Danielle. I stopped playing the movie in my head that I’m not good enough, I’m not pretty enough, I’m not thin enough,” Lichtenstein said during an interview with The Batavian from her home in Mexico, New York. “I teach people now. I no longer have foggy brain, that movie didn’t play over in my head any more. I gained healthy boundaries, I learned we surrender our power. Before, I was notorious for being a doormat.”
Lichtenstein owns Integrative Healing Solutions, LLC and is an advanced practitioner of Eden Energy Medicine, an integrated approach to healing by learning how to build neuroplasticity, detox your brain, open new neural pathways and calm the nervous system.
She’s bringing a class, Calm Within: Energy Medicine for Stress & Anxiety Relief, here from 1 to 3:30 p.m. June 5 at Batavia First Presbyterian Church, 300 E. Main St.
Serving as her own living validation that the Eden method of recovery and living actually works, Lichtenstein has gone on to teach it to others, watching remarkable transformations, she said.
“What I love about Donna Eden's work is that it's one of the quickest, most effective ways I've discovered in my 63 years of struggling myself. I mean, not so much in the last 15 years, but prior to that, it gives you tools that you can use for yourself to give you back and empower you and make you more resilient," she said. "I would dare say that every single health crisis has a stress component to deal with it, and not being able to deal with it or know how to deal with it, and this gives you those simple tools to deal with it, so that you don't get sick.
"And I'm walking proof of it. And most people that have become practitioners in energy medicine is because they are very sick themselves, and it saved my life, basically, learning how to do this," she said. "And I want it for everybody else, because, we deserve to have a full, beautiful life and enjoy every day to its fullest, because we don't know what's going to happen.”
She provides tools for people to use to calm themselves, she said. It’s a really soothing, simple yet powerful energy to restore one’s balance, whether it’s the breath, presence or intention, there is most definitely a noticeable before and after, she said.
A registered respiratory therapist for several years, she didn’t feel as though she was making much of an impact on her patients’ health. It was as if she was “taking this blazing fire and we were taking this little squirt gun, and going, ‘I’m wondering why they weren’t getting better,’” she said. So she eventually left that field and went on to work in schools.
Then in 2010, she began to study this new method, and saw “amazing results” with students while as a teen health educator for two school districts.
“Holy moly, what a difference. I had one girl who’d just as soon punch the vice principal as talk to him, and in her senior year, she didn’t get in any trouble, and now I’m so proud of her. She’s going to school to be a teacher, and it was just teaching her simple tools, which I’m going to teach in this class. It changed this girl’s life, and she got out of a toxic relationship and she’s doing fantastic.”
Participants in this class will receive a booklet of information and exercises to perform — not calisthenics that depend on one’s physical condition but those tools, Lichtenstein said — to enable anyone to do them and understand “how our energies affect” not only ourselves but others in the room, she said.
There will be “just enough” science to explain why and how this method works, but not too much to be overwhelming, she said. One key aspect is neuroplasticity.
What is neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to change and adapt throughout life. It refers to the brain forming new neural connections and reorganizing itself in response to experiences, emotions, behaviors, and even energy-based practices.
“When you're stressed or anxious, your brain often strengthens neural pathways associated with fear, worry, and survival. However, with intentional practices — like those in Eden Energy Medicine — you can begin to rewire your brain toward calm, balance, and resilience,” Lichtenstein said. “Each exercise students will learn in this class, Calm Within: Energy Medicine for Stress & Anxiety Relief, supports rewiring the brain by helping the nervous system shift out of survival mode and into balance, calm, and healing.”
Fee is $25, and scholarships are available for those that may not otherwise be able to attend. Lichtenstein said that once participants connect with her, she is there for you afterward if needed.
“My goal is to put myself out of business, because people are stressed.," she said. "I have had personal stress, and I wouldn’t have been able to get through it without energy medicine, and now I want to share it with as many people as I can.”
I have written many articles about Batavia's history using the Genesee County History Department, Ruth M. McEvoy's book, The History of the City of Batavia, the Holland Land Office Museum, and the Richmond Memorial Library. I have also enjoyed sharing my memories growing up in Batavia. I am always looking for topics to write about.
I recalled watching the 60s, two popular TV shows, Dr. Kildare and Ben Casey. I also remember the nun at St. Joseph's Elementary School slamming the top of my desk as I looked at a picture of Ben Casey, not paying attention to her lesson. I had taped his picture to the inside of my desktop.
I loved the clothing from the '60s and '70s. There was a unique store called Metamorphous, located on Ellicott Street Road. It sold the most incredible bell-bottoms in a brushed corduroy.
I remember when sneakers finally came in colors other than white. You couldn't express your style by wearing a school uniform daily since you had to wear white socks. I remember wearing penny loafers, and I put dimes where the penny was supposed to go.
There was also a phase of wearing a Liz Taylor blouse. It had ruffles on the front and was a welcome change to wear when not in School.
The dance moves included the Twist, the Mashed Potato, the Swim, and the Freddie. We enjoyed simple summers, swimming in the New Pool, participating in the City Parks Program, and attending the Tennis Court Dances at night.
When we were young, there wasn't a Saturday Mass available for parishioners at the various Catholic churches. We attended the 9:15 a.m. children's Sunday Mass and were usually late getting our family of eight ready for church. Girls always had to wear a hat or some covering on their heads. Of course, if you didn't have the chaplet cap of mantilla for Mass, you'd get a bobby pin and pin a Kleenex to your hair. I wore many a Kleenex pinned to my hair as a St. Joseph's School student.
The children from the New York State School for the Blind attended the children's Mass. They sat on the left side of the church and walked to the altar for communion with a small group of students and one student leader holding a teacher's hand.
When Beatlemania hit the United States from England, our music changed. Many other groups followed the Beatles, the Fab Four. We now had music from many English groups, such as The Dave Clark Five, The Rolling Stones, The Kinks, The Who, and The Yardbirds, to name a few of the many popular groups from England. Clothing from that era was halter tops, cutoff jeans, wide bell-bottoms, and mini dresses. The hairstyles for boys and girls were long hair. Gone was the traditional boys' haircut.
A favorite memory of mine was when I gathered up my five siblings to have a portrait taken of the six of us. I made an appointment at Lawing Studio, and we all showed up in what we thought were appropriate clothes. We still have that once-in-a-lifetime sibling photo taken for mom. We had it framed and presented it to her on her birthday.
As we were waiting to hear her express her pleasure for this memorable portrait of her children, our soft-spoken mom, who never really raised her voice in our lifetime, was not a fan of her son's long hair, to put it mildly. She didn't like their pork chop sideburns either. We were shocked! She was happy with us girls, who were wearing my clothes.
We always laugh at the photo our mom hated that was never hung in the living room. We would drag it out on holidays and have a good laugh. At a reception at Terry Hill's Restaurant after our mother's funeral Mass, we took out the photo, sat in the exact order we sat in for the original photo back in the 70s, and retook the picture in memory of our beautiful mother.
At 75 years old, I repeat my memories; they are written a little scrambled, but that is how I recall them at my age. We share similar memories, so please feel free to share yours. I am not crazy about being 75, but my memories keep me young.
The 14th annual MadisoNation golf tournament will be held Saturday, July 26, 2025, at LeRoy Country Club, 7759 E. Main Rd, LeRoy, NY.
This year’s event is expected to bring total donations over the $100,000 milestone since the tournament began 14 years ago. The four-person scramble costs $500 per team and includes golf, lunch, dinner, and live music after the event.
MadisoNation was inspired by Madison Marie Muckle's childhood cancer battle. Madison was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia shortly after her third birthday in 2010. She underwent two and a half years of intensive treatment before being declared cancer-free. Her family and community created the annual golf tournament to raise funds to support families and organizations affected by childhood cancer, honoring Madison’s journey and the challenges she faced,
Teams can register or donate by contacting Kevin Muckle at 585-300-7499 or Jen Muckle at 585-300-8440, or by visiting madisonation.org. Registration is also available via Venmo, with instructions to include the team name, participants, and a contact phone number.
“This is going to be a big milestone for our event as we will be surpassing the $100K mark in donations over the last 14 years. I never thought we could do it but here we are,” Kevin Muckle said.
Proceeds from the tournament benefit local families and organizations. The event continues to unite the community in support of those facing childhood cancer.
The City of Batavia invites you and your organization to participate in the Memorial Day Parade on May 26. The parade lineup will be at the East Town Plaza starting at 8:30 a.m., with the parade commencing at 9:30 a.m. The parade should end at approximately 10:30 a.m. at Alva Place. We will have Marshals who will assign your unit a place in the parade.
When turning off Main Street onto Bank Street, all units are to be silent out of respect for a memorial service at the Veterans Monument on Bank Street.
Throwing of candy from vehicles is strictly prohibited.
Out of respect, there will be no political campaigning, such as signs or vote for are allowed. Our veterans served our country, not political affiliations.
"Honor, respect, and guard your freedom, for it comes from the blood of those who gave their life for it."
Your support of this event is greatly appreciated.
Please RSVP and return a certificate of Insurance and or the attached hold harmless to Bob Bialkowski at bbwski@yahoo.com or call 585-343-4471.
Starting May 27, Genesee County Offices will shift their hours from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. As in years past, this change does not affect the total number of hours offices are open to the public. These summer hours will remain in effect through August 29.
Departments with alternate schedules may vary slightly; please refer to department-specific announcements or contact offices directly with any questions.
Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) shared remarks on the House floor during National Police Week to honor the lives of two fallen police officers from New York’s 24th Congressional District, Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office and Deputy Cailee Campbell of the Oswego County Sheriff’s Office.
Sergeant Sanfratello served his beloved community as a police officer for 32 years, was twice recognized as officer of the year, and was heavily involved with the New York State Sheriffs Association, Stop DWI, and Shop with a Cop. He was tragically killed while responding to a call in the early hours of March 10, 2024.
Deputy Campbell began her career in law enforcement with the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office as a corrections officer before attending the Syracuse Police Academy. In April 2023, she joined the Oswego County Sheriff’s Office as a patrol deputy. On September 25, 2024, she was tragically struck in a T-bone collision and later succumbed to her injuries.
"During National Police Week, we solemnly honor the memory of Sergeant Sanfratello and Deputy Campbell, who gave their lives in service to our community. Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten, and we remain forever indebted to them. On behalf of the people of New York’s 24th Congressional District, we offer our deepest gratitude and heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones,” said Congresswoman Tenney.
Watch Rep Tenney’s remarks honoring Sergeant Sanfratello here and her remarks honoring Deputy Campbell here.
Matt Chavez far right, project manager for NORLIC, talks to Genesee County legislators and economic development leaders during a meeting about land banks this week. Photo by Joanne Beck
After more than an hour of discussing the concept, possibilities and potential partners for establishing a land bank with Genesee County and economic development officials, Matt Chavez, project manager of Niagara Orleans Regional Land Improvement Corporation (NORLIC), summarized the only way he thought it should go.
Batavia is the birthplace of Western New York and, therefore, holds a certain prominence in the county. So, the options of falling under an umbrella of another corporation or county didn’t make sense, he said.
“I think you deserve to have your own land bank,” he said to the group late Monday afternoon. “And the needs of your municipalities are unique, and I wouldn't claim to know them, I would learn them, certainly, obviously, we would work together, but we can work together anyway. We're your neighbor. We'll help, and we'll make those connections and those inroads, and obviously, all of our best practices, and provide as much assistance as we can in the neighborly way too.”
His colleague, Executive Director Andrea Klyczek, also encouraged the legislators to ask themselves, “What problem do you need to solve?” as they considered the ways and whys of forming a county land bank before submitting an application to the state Land Bank Association.
First things first, what’s a land bank? A land bank is a public or quasi-governmental entity created to acquire, manage, maintain, and repurpose vacant, abandoned, tax-delinquent, or foreclosed properties with the goal of returning them to productive use in alignment with community goals.
Its primary purpose is to address blighted or deteriorated properties by temporarily holding and caring for them until they can be transferred to responsible new owners or developers who will revitalize the properties and neighborhoods.
Land banks have unique powers granted by state laws, which often include the ability to:
Sell or convey properties flexibly based on community priorities rather than the highest price
Extinguish liens and clear titles on properties
Hold properties tax-exempt
Generate revenue through delinquent tax fees or other mechanisms
Unlike traditional financial institutions, land banks focus on stabilizing and revitalizing neighborhoods by eliminating blight, creating affordable housing, and promoting economic development.
Legislator Marianne Clattenburg, who represents a portion of the city of Batavia, said there is a lot of industrial property from the days when manufacturing was a heavy contender and big employer in the county overall.
“We’ve got the infrastructure, if we could revamp it and market it,” she said, as Legislative Chairwoman Shelley Stein added that “we’ve got to bring these properties up to code.”
That’s another benefit of operating a land bank, Klyczek said.
“The land bank, I think, helps focus on code enforcement,” she said. “Sometimes code enforcement just doesn’t know where to begin.”
So, where does a municipality begin? With baby steps and education, and this meeting was that first step, Stein said.
“So, ideally, we are a county land bank that works in every municipality in our county. Our latest housing needs and market analysis was done in 2018 and we've since had an update to that, but I couldn't find that one as quick as I could find this. So we know that we have commercial and industrial brownfields that have value to this community, but we don't have the wherewithal to do the cleanup,” Stein said. “And the land bank appears to be one of the, I don't want to say easier, but one of those opportunities for us to lockstep all of the necessary funding and folks that we need to pull some of that property, get it cleaned up, and it already has infrastructure for that.”
Klyczek and Chavez talked about various projects they’ve taken on — a property with no roof that sat lifeless for six years; and a burned out building that changed hands of nonprofits with no renovations — as two of an estimated 50 they have successfully turned around. Some have “moved in 30 days,” while others can take a few years, depending on the situation and condition, they said.
“We really try to be the off-ramp for people,” Chavez said.
They also try to serve as a bridge to growth, both for economic development and for neighborhoods. Klyczek gave an example of them taking a foreclosure in a high-renter-occupied block and targeting the sale for someone who will make that parcel an owner-occupied home to shift the demographics of the neighborhood.
A municipality has an obligation to put it through a public offering and take the highest bid, she said; however, a land bank can specify who the property goes to if it meets that purpose.
“This person might be offering $100K, and this person’s only offering $50K, but the one that’s offering $50 is going to put $150 rehab dollars into their property, and they live there and be part of the community,” she said. “So that’s a better outcome long-term for the municipality. So that’s the flexibility that we have.”
Chavez talked about another important aspect they have discovered since establishing their land bank in 2017: access to state funding.
“We have direct ties to state level funding, the Department of Homes and Community Renewal funds, the Land Bank initiative, which was funded in the last five budgets, six now I think, I don't know the latest, this past year's number, but last year it was 110 million dollars get allocated to land banks specifically. And only land banks can apply for that funding, and that's to acquire, stabilize, demolish, preserve green space,” he said. “Using these resources, the state has allowed us to do a lot of things that their funding typically doesn't do. So we're able to do stabilization, like putting a roof on a home, or pre-development work, like environmental testing that isn't always funded for projects. It is reimbursable grants, but the state is very responsive to the land banks, very good to work with.”
Land banks originated in the U.S. in the 1970s to manage surplus or blighted land and have since become a widely used tool for urban revitalization, especially following the foreclosure crisis of 2007-2008. They differ from simple land banking programs or land trusts in that they are established through state legislation and have specific statutory powers. They often work in partnership with local governments, community organizations, and private investors to achieve these goals.
Chavez confirmed this with an example of how private companies seemed to be energized by NORLIC’s involvement.
“It wasn't just the sites we touched and the sites that we targeted. It was the fact that we were doing the work that others, other brownfield sites, started to come back online, or started to pay their taxes, or started to clean up a little bit,” Chavez said. “So it's these strategic interventions that yield ripple effects, and that's the ROI for the community. You have a million-dollar grant, but you spread that through targeted interventions that then leverage private investments. And that's really what we’ve touched on, is our ability to leverage those private investments.
“I would encourage a municipality to think about starting a land bank, not because I do this, but because when you start the land bank now at the state level, and this is the way I understand it … you'll get a land bank initiative, Phase One Award, which is usually about $100,000, $200,000 depending on your your size. And so if it's smaller, you figure it out. But that'll cover your legal expenses, your staff, and your administrative costs. Everything, getting technical assistance, application to ESD (Empire State Development), yes, getting each community, where's your list of properties and what's important to you, and having those really specific conversations,” he said. “But outside of that, then the state is trying to fund this work, not just this initiative.
"So already there's a Phase Two that I mentioned that will fund your stabilization, demolitions, acquisitions, and you get to kind of tailor your ask based on your needs. So if you know in your community you need to acquire more strategic properties, you can ask for more acquisition dollars. I think that award is between one and 2 million," he said. "And then there's a Phase Three that you will after that be able to get. So I always tell our partners, we're not a real estate development company, we're a nonprofit, so it functions in that world. But really the the most important thing is returning these properties to productive use.”
Mark Masse, chief executive officer for the county’s Economic Development Center, talked about a potential for incorporating his agency’s Local Development Company in the mix.
“Our LDC used to be responsible for our shovel-ready park development, so it's sold property a lot, and our disposition property doesn't require us to bid it, anything like that. We are a public authority subject to 90 day notice and all of that kind of stuff. So I don't know. I'm just thinking from an ease of organizational setup, it's there, and it would save a significant amount of resources and time to do something like that,” Masse said. “And I have to talk to the board about it to see if that's something they would be interested in. But if that's a possibility, I think that might be something that can help.”
After 70 minutes of discussion, legislators seemed enthused about pursuing the idea, Clattenburg noted that the county is losing out on available state money, and Stein said “the Legislature is definitely interested.”
Afterward she further elaborated on that, although uncertain about whether EDC will play a role, it was “encouraging to hear the president of the local Development Corp. say we may have some opportunities to play in this space, and to be a value in this space.”
“And so there may be some synergies there, where we could just be the cog in the gear together,” she said, adding that this initiative has only just begun. “I'm thinking of a junkyard. That was the first conversation that both Gary Maha and I heard Niagara County talk about at an Intercounty meeting, and we came away from there thinking, wow, if they can clean up a junkyard and make that property so that it was attractive to a developer, what could we do here, right? And so that was kind of the little start of the bubbling.”
Mark Masse talks about the possibilities for GCEDC to be involved in Genesee County's pursuit of forming a land bank during a meeting this week with legislators and NORLIC officials. Photo by Joanne Beck
City Manager Rachael Tabelski, left, and BID Executive Director Shannon Maute, right, talk about a potential revised local law for open containers in the downtown Batavia district during a City Council meeting in April. Photo by Joanne Beck
Hoping to boost pedestrian presence, spending, and a more lively downtown Batavia environment, members of the Business Improvement District have proposed expanding the city’s open container law from Jackson Square to the entire BID territory.
This would allow folks to drink alcoholic beverages from noon to 10 p.m. daily within the district, except for properties west of Court Street (Genesee County office buildings and Austin Park), in containers other than glass.
BID Executive Director Shannon Maute presented the idea to City Council at a prior conference meeting in April, and the group set a public hearing for 7 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall to allow others the opportunity for input about the idea.
“So the talking points tonight would be the open container would drive economic growth, increase foot traffic, more sales for bars, restaurants and shops, encourages patrons to explore and spend more time downtown, fosters a welcoming downtown culture,” Maute said at City Hall. “Open container districts create a fun festival-like atmosphere, supporting a sense of community and vibrancy, supports events and place making, makes it easier to host public events, live music, outdoor markets, while boosting attendance, attracts visitors and retains talent, adds to the downtown's appeal for young professionals, tourists and new businesses.
“The, probably my favorite part of it, safe managed consumption, control boundaries and rules, promote responsible public drinking,” she said. “Making it safer and easier to monitor than impromptu consumption.”
One example she gave on that end was during an event such as the wine walk. If a group is moving along, and someone is still finishing a drink, this revised law would allow that person to take the drink along rather than feeling rushed to gulp it down so as not to step out onto the sidewalk with it.
City Manager Rachael Tabelski interjected that the BID board has been discussing the idea for “the better half of the last year.”
“They came to City Council asking for special permission to have open container in Jackson Square back in the spring of 2023, and as well as having council approve open containers for certain events that the BID was hosting, and I don't want to speak for the police chief, but I have gotten reports that there had not been any issues during these times or events,” Tabelski said. “So after the board did their research and worked with Shannon, it brought them to the point tonight where they'd like to ask City Council to review the proposal for open container in the entire district.”
Maute agreed that police officers that she had spoken with “had no concerns, and they think it is a positive thing for Batavia.” BID’s board voted to move forward with it, and “all the downtown businesses would like to have in the downtown,” she said, answering how she knows that by adding that “we sent this out to everybody, and I have not had one person come back with anything negative. Everyone was for it.”
“So this doesn’t give anyone the right to do stupid things. All this is doing is letting you walk around socially with a drink. This shouldn’t attract any people who are going to be falling down drunk or causing problems because it hasn’t so far at any of the walks, and it hasn’t in the square, so the same laws would apply,” she said. “There’s still no drinking and driving. There’s still no you cannot be drunk in public. All we are saying is there’s nothing wrong with someone buying a drink, being responsible and saying, ‘hey, let’s go shopping, let’s go to the next place.’ And like we said, what it’s going to do is going to slow down your drinking instead of you rushing to drink.”
As for how this might affect garbage, per a council member's question, public works would empty trash containers per usual, and BID and city officials hoped that visitors would be respectful to properly dispose of their litter, Tabelski and Maute said.
Maute suggested that downtown restaurants and bars have some type of plastic cup with a BID logo for people to use, however, Police Chief Shawn Heubusch said the department is stretched too thin as it is and he thought that may be too difficult to be monitored by the police on a daily basis. Everyone agreed that glass would be prohibited.
If approved by council, this would become adopted under local law number 5 to amend Section 37 Alcoholic Beverages of the Batavia Municipal Code.
Eight local students graduated on Wednesday, May 14, from the Genesee County Youth Bureau’s Youth Lead Program. This eight-month-long program focuses on developing leadership skills through hands-on experiences.
Congratulations to the following Genesee County Youth for completing the program:
Elle Bentley, a Freshman from Elba
Preslee Blecha, a Freshman from Alexander
Jenavieve Gang, a Freshman from Oakfield-Alabama
Lyla Jones, a Freshman from Le Roy
Kennedy Lear, a Freshman from Alexander
Lucia Longoria, a Sophomore from Elba
Zachary Thorne, a Freshman from Alexander
Carolyn Wujcik, a Freshman from Le Roy
These eight students met monthly to learn more about their community, how to be leaders, and the needs and challenges found in Genesee County.
Areas of topic this year included Leadership, Business, Community Service, Criminal Justice, Arts & Culture, and Health & Emergency Preparedness. A few highlights of this year included a tour of The Chamber of Commerce, creating holiday cards for the elderly in Genesee County, a tour of the new Genesee County Jail, a history of Jamaican Culture by Jackie Swaby at GOART!, and a fire extinguisher demonstration by Gary Patnode of Genesee County Office of Emergency Management.
Congratulations to these future leaders!
Applications for Youth Lead are open for the 2025-2026 school year. Interested Genesee County high school students, grades 9-12, are encouraged to apply. Applications are due September 1, 2025. For additional information or to apply, visit https://shorturl.at/t6qPr.
The Batavia Police Department is committed to creating a safe and healthy environment for all residents. To achieve this goal, we need your help. If you have information about illegal drug activity in our community, we urge you to report it anonymously through the Submit a Tip link on our Crimewatch page.
Drug abuse and trafficking can have devastating effects on individuals, families, and our community as a whole. By reporting suspicious activity, you can help us identify and disrupt illegal drug operations, making our streets safer for everyone.
Our Tip Line is a secure and confidential way to share information about drug-related crimes. You can remain anonymous, and your tip will be investigated promptly by our dedicated team. Your contribution can make a significant difference in our efforts to combat drug abuse and keep our community safe.
Here's how you can report drug activity anonymously:
Provide as much information as possible about the suspected drug activity, including location, time, and any other relevant details.
Submit your tip, and our team will review and investigate it promptly.
Remember, your tip can be the key to making a positive impact in our community. Let's work together to create a safer, healthier environment for everyone. Report drug activity anonymously today! If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, please seek help from a trusted healthcare provider or a reputable treatment center. Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to keeping our community safe.
Batavia Business & Professional Women's Club Inc Carries on Memorial Day Tradition Honoring Local Veterans, photo provided
This morning, some members of the Batavia Business and Professional Women's Club, Inc., placed flags on the graves of Veterans to honor and remember their service and sacrifice this Memorial Day.
Flags were placed in several cemeteries in Bethany and East Bethany.
This is the fifth year this local service organization has carried on this tradition, which it proudly began in 2020.
Special thanks to the Town of Bethany, which purchased and supplied the flags that were placed at the gravesites.
Information provided by Batavia Business & Professional Women's Club
File Photo from start of winter racing season at Batavia Downs. By Howard Owens.
Nicolle Fortes Submitted photo
Batavia Downs is betting on experience and an increased commitment to racing as it promotes longtime employee Nicolle Fortes to director of live racing and moves forward with track improvements.
“Nicolle Fortes, who has been with the Corporation for 31 years and is currently director of intertrack wagering, has been selected for the position of director of live racing,” said Byron Brown, president and CEO of Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp.
Fortes, a Batavia resident, replaces Don Hoover, who retired.
The Western OTB board approved Fortes’ promotion to grade seven pay level, which keeps her $102,000 annual salary consistent with the prior director's salary, who was part-time. Fortes will be on the job 12 months a year.
There is a long-term trend, even at the national level, in live-race attendance and wagering, Brown said. He hopes Fortes can invigorate the experience at Batavia Downs.
“As you know, racing, harness racing, and thoroughbred racing have been down nationally, and we want to place more focus on it strategically, to bring more people into enjoying racing,” Brown said.
Brown acknowledged that maintaining a racing operation is required for the casino’s license, even as the industry faces a decline in popularity.
“We are required to have our casino operation. We’re required to continue our racing operation, which is one of the priorities of New York State -- to support the racing industry. So we are leaning into that. We’re going to provide more focus and resources to that element of our business, and we are hopeful that we will see increased patronage, more customers coming in and enjoying racing,” Brown said.
Brown described Fortes as “a very hard worker, very knowledgeable about racing, someone who is well respected by her colleagues in the corporation and very well respected by our customers, and we are pleased to offer her this promotion.”
The board also authorized hiring Gary Wolf, a consultant with more than 30 years of experience, to oversee racetrack maintenance and training, and awarded Keeler Construction a $44,396 contract to resurface the track.
“Having optimal track conditions is important to the horsemen, to the drivers, and certainly to the safety of the horses,” Brown said.
The Western New York Harness Horsemen’s Association will pay half Wolf's salary.
Brown said the changes are part of a broader strategy to boost interest in harness racing at Batavia Downs.
Track resurfacing and consultant services are scheduled to begin before the new season and the Night of Champions event.
Dennis Bassett, chairman of the board for WROTB, Byron Brown, president and CEO, and board member Michael Horton. Brown was presented with a commemorative football at the close of OTB's Thursday meeting for being “our guy here at the one yard line that put us over” in securing a 5 percent tax reduction in the new state budget, a key legislative win for Batavia Downs. Brown joked that getting the ball over the goal line didn't involve a "tush push." Photo by Howard Owens.
File Photo of Aubrey Puccio of Stafford Photo by Howard Owens
Le Roy High School senior Aubrey Puccio demonstrated fan appeal during preliminary rounds of competition for Stars of Tomorrow NYC Bound, a Rochester Broadway Theatre League press release states.
The 18-year-old performer was voted a Fan Favorite in event sponsor WROC News 8’s poll conducted in conjunction with the local competition, the release stated.
Puccio was one of 40 finalists chosen out of nearly 300 students to compete for the Rochester area this week, taking the stage at West Herr Auditorium Theatre Thursday as part of the National High School Musical Theater Awards local competition.
Tessa Meyers and Ian Royse, both from Greece Arcadia, were chosen to go on and compete among more than 100 other student performers from across the country. Perhaps better known as the Jimmy Awards, the national high school musical awards are to be presented June 23 at the Minskoff Theatre in New York City.
Daniel R. Yates, 55, of Batavia, is charged with attempted robbery, 3rd degree, and attempted criminal possession of a weapon, 2nd degree. Yates allegedly attempted to take a Batavia police officer’s gun out of the holster while police were attempting to take him into custody on May 2. He was arraigned in City Court and released under the supervision of Genesee Justice.
Roman B. Warchol, 45, of Elm Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Jennifer R. Warchol, 43, of Elm Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree; operating a motor vehicle without insurance; operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration; and operating a motor vehicle without an inspection certificate. Roman and Jennifer Warchol were arrested May 21 following a traffic stop, during which both were allegedly found in possession of narcotics. They were processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on appearance tickets.
Supreme N. Ervin, 26, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with public lewdness. Ervin was arrested May 20 after allegedly exposing private parts of his body while in a store on Veterans Memorial Drive in the Town of Batavia. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.
Daquan J. Butler, 29, of Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn, is charged with possession of contraband. Butler is accused of possessing contraband inside the Genesee County Jail on May 16. He was issued an appearance ticket and will appear in Batavia Town Court on May 27.
Bernard L. Parnell, 35, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and obstructing governmental administration, 2nd degree. Parnell allegedly stole merchandise from Speedway and resisted police when they attempted to detain him. He was issued an appearance ticket and released. Earlier the same day, Parnell was arrested on Otis Street after he allegedly refused to leave a residence and allegedly punched another person. He was charged with criminal trespass, 2nd degree, and harassment, 2nd degree.
Anthony A. Bomasuto, 31, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt, 2nd degree, and aggravated family offense. Bomasuto is accused of being involved in an altercation with a person who has an order of protection against him on April 10. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.
Kara B. Baker, 52, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Baker is accused of stealing merchandise from Aldi on April 15. She was issued an appearance ticket and released.
Jerome W. Amesbury, 59, of Oakfield, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Amesbury was arrested on April 10 following a traffic stop on Jan. 10, when he was allegedly found in possession of narcotics. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.
Anthony G. Cicoria, 56, of Caledonia, is charged with DWI. Cicoria was arrested on April 10 following a traffic stop on West Main Street. He was arraigned in City Court and released.
Michael A. Fanizza, 31, of Batavia, is charged with burglary, 2nd degree, and criminal contempt, 2nd degree. Fanizza allegedly entered a residence illegally in violation of an order of protection. He was arraigned in CAP Court.
Donyel E. Walker, 26, of Batavia, is charged with burglary, 2nd degree, criminal contempt, 1st degree, and harassment, 2nd degree. Walker was arrested April 17 after allegedly violating an order of protection inside a residence on Hutchins Street. He was arraigned in CAP Court.
Thomas J. Preedom, 36, of Batavia, is charged with failure to register as a sex offender. Preedom is accused of failing to register his address as a level 2 sex offender. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail without bail.
Jacob W. Patterson, 29, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Patterson was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during an incident on State Street on April 15, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.
Christopher E. Tanner, 52, of Batavia, is charged with harassment, 2nd degree. Tanner allegedly struck another person during an altercation on State Street. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.
Kelly R. Seeler, 52, of Albion, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Seeler was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on Pearl Street on Jan. 17. She was arraigned and released.
Benjamin M. Klotzbach, 34, of Batavia, is charged with unlawful imprisonment, 2nd degree, and harassment, 2nd degree. Klotzbach allegedly headbutted another person and prevented them from leaving a residence during an altercation on Elmwood Avenue. He was arraigned in City Court and released.
Johnny D. Vidal, 40, of Batavia, is charged with filing a false written statement. Vidal is accused of signing a written statement alleging that another person threatened him with a firearm. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.
Nathiel D. Wilson III, 19, of Batavia, and Ashton T. McWethy-Thornley, 18, of Batavia, are charged with criminal mischief, 3rd degree, and conspiracy, 5th degree. Wilson and McWethy-Thornley are accused of damaging a window on a house and a vehicle on State Street. Wilson was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. McWethy-Thornley was arraigned and released.
Karen B. Armstrong, 48, of Batavia, and Ashlee S. Thomas, 28, of Batavia, are charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Armstrong and Thomas were charged following an altercation on Denio Street, where Armstrong allegedly kicked a 13-year-old girl and Thomas allegedly slapped another person who was holding a young child. Thomas was additionally charged with harassment, 2nd degree. Both were issued appearance tickets and released.
Andrew R. Del Gandio, 31, of Rochester, is charged with DWI. Del Gandio was arrested April 27 following a traffic stop on East Main Street. He was issued several traffic tickets and released.
James R. Briggs, 49, of Corning, was arrested April 30 on four warrants, including two bench warrants and two arrest warrants. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.
Nankumar McLaulin, 32, of Hicksville, was arrested April 24 on a warrant. McLaulin allegedly failed to appear in court after being issued a misdemeanor traffic ticket in December 2023. He turned himself in, was arraigned in City Court, and released.
John W. Biaselli, 56, of Batavia, was arrested April 24 on a warrant. Biaselli was initially charged with petit larceny after allegedly stealing merchandise from Dollar General on Feb. 28. The warrant was issued after he failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in City Court and released.
Shelby L. Fryer, 29, of Batavia, was arrested April 24 on a bench warrant. Fryer was initially charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree, following a traffic stop on Dec. 17, 2024. Fryer was arraigned in City Court and released.
Nicole Granger, 34, of Batavia, is charged with offering a false instrument for filing, grand larceny, 3rd degree, and three counts of forgery, 1st degree. Granger is accused of failing to report that the biological father of her child was residing in the home and earning wages, and of forging three documents related to her rental payments. As a result, she allegedly received $6,426 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. Granger was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.
Nicole Sprung, 39, of Le Roy, is charged with forgery, 1st degree, welfare fraud, 4th degree, and grand larceny, 4th degree. Sprung is accused of failing to report that the biological father of her child was living in the home and earning wages, and of forging a neighbor’s signature attesting that he was not in the home. She allegedly received $2,641 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. Sprung was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.
Cheryl Ditzel, 61, of Batavia, is charged with welfare fraud, 4th degree. Ditzel is accused of failing to report monies being deposited into a bank account she had access to, resulting in her allegedly receiving $2,435 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.
Jacqueline Sogunro-Pitan, 44, of Batavia, is charged with welfare fraud, 4th degree. She is accused of failing to report wages she was earning at Walmart and, as a result, receiving $2,304 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.
Erica E. Cullen, 34, of Bank Street Road, Elba, is charged with offering a false instrument for filing, 1st degree; welfare fraud, 3rd degree; and grand larceny, 3rd degree. Cullen is accused of receiving $3,138 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arrested following an investigation by the Department of Social Services and arraigned in Batavia Town Court on May 22, where she was released on her own recognizance.
Brandon Gerald Starkweather, 33, no permanent address, is charged with criminal contempt, 1st degree. Starkweather is accused of striking another person who had an active stay-away order of protection against him. He was held for arraignment following his arrest on May 22.
Davon H. Patton, 39, of Buffalo, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property, 4th degree. Patton was allegedly found operating a stolen vehicle on Oak Street on May 7. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.
Brian M. Raphael, 37, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon, 3rd degree. Raphael was allegedly found in possession of a bludgeon, specifically a club with barbed wire wrapped around it, on May 7. He was arraigned in City Court and released.
Joseph M. Tornabene, 33, of Buffalo, is charged with aggravated family offense and criminal contempt, 2nd degree. Tornabene allegedly violated an order of protection by being at the residence of a protected party on April 30. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.
Marissa A. McGill, 39, of Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and circumventing an interlock device. McGill allegedly had a child blow into her vehicle’s interlock device and left her children unattended for an extended period of time on May 9. She was issued appearance tickets and released.
Michael J. Cutitta, 40, of Batavia, is charged with menacing, 3rd degree. Cutitta allegedly threatened to kill another person on May 10. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released.
Colleen M. Hutchinson, 50, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree, and criminal use of drug paraphernalia, 2nd degree. Hutchinson was allegedly found in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia during a traffic stop on Ellicott Avenue on Feb. 19. She was issued appearance tickets and released.
Justin T. Gladney, 36, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Gladney was allegedly found in possession of narcotics on West Main Street on Aug. 1, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket at the Genesee County Jail, where he is currently incarcerated on a separate matter.
Kaila I. Tidd, 40, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt, 2nd degree, and endangering the welfare of a child. Tidd allegedly allowed a sex offender to be at her residence around her children, in violation of an order of protection, on May 1. She was arraigned in City Court and released on her own recognizance.
Edward J. Ludwig, 62, of Alden, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Ludwig was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on Jan. 17. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released.
Ricky A. Marsceill, 60, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Marsceill was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on May 20, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.
Bill A. Thomas, 65, of Batavia, was arrested on three bench warrants, all stemming from previous trespass charges where he failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in CAP Court.
Michelle L. May, 50, of Batavia, is charged with harassment, 2nd degree. May allegedly had physical contact with another person during an altercation on East Main Street on May 3. She was arraigned in CAP Court.
The Batavia Police Department is proud to announce its annual Flag Commemoration Ceremony, honoring the memory of those who have served our community and have passed away. This solemn event is a tribute to the dedication and sacrifice of our fallen heroes who have served our department and the community with distinction.
The ceremony will take place on May 28 at 1 p.m. at Grandview Cemetery. The event will feature a brief ceremony, a moment of silence, and a reading of the names of those being honored.
The Batavia Police Department invites the public to join us in paying respects to these brave individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
We hope you can join us for this meaningful ceremony as we come together to pay tribute to those who have given so much. Let us take a moment to remember and honor the sacrifices of those who have served our community and have passed on. Their legacy lives on in our hearts and in the work we do every day to keep our community safe.
Lucine Kauffman, the Library Visits Program Coordinator at Richmond Memorial Library, receives the 2025 Outreach Award from Nioga Trustee Kristie Miller, with Nioga Board President Charles Begley looking on. Submitted photo.
Press Release:
Lucine Kauffman, program coordinator for the Library Visits Program at the Richmond Memorial Library, was honored with the 2025 Outreach Award at the Nioga Library System's annual meeting on Wednesday evening at the White Birch Golf Course in Lyndonville. The award honors an individual in the library or community who has shown a commitment in providing/promoting library services to special populations such as the elderly, geographically isolated, or those who have a physical disability.
"Lucine has consistently gone above and beyond to serve marginalized and isolated groups in our community," shares RML Interim Director Samantha Stryker, who nominated Kauffman. “She recognizes the need to address the epidemic of loneliness we often see in our elderly population. The Library Visits program utilizes a small staff and a network of volunteers to deliver tremendous amounts of resources to those who need them most.”
Nioga Trustee and Genesee County representative Kristie Miller presented Kauffman with the award, sharing that she works diligently to provide as many services as possible to Library Visits patrons, whether it is library materials, help with technology, or a social connection with their dedicated volunteer. Through her initiative, the program is now able to serve caregivers in addition to those who are homebound or unable to visit the library.
Since 1997, The Library Visits Program has been serving residents of Genesee County through the Muriel H. Marshall Fund. In addition to serving 70-80 patrons directly, the program delivers group loans and resources to more than 15 residential and program facilities in Genesee County, serving over 1200 Genesee County residents. Thanks to recent funding, caregivers are also eligible to receive services through Library Visits.
If you or a loved one are interested in the services provided by Library Visits, visit batavialibrary.org or call 585-343-9550 x6.
The City Department of Public Works TEAM will be continuing with essential and time-sensitive repairs to the sewer infrastructure along Dellinger Avenue, continuing on Thursday, May 22, with work anticipated to extend through Friday, May 23, at a minimum. Additional Water service restoration work will begin on Tuesday, May 27, with hopeful completion on that day as well, with the water line work.
The construction activities are scheduled to take place throughout the day on Thursday and are expected to continue into Friday until all identified and necessary repair tasks have been successfully completed. This work is to ensure the long-term reliability and functionality of the local sewer system.
Please be advised that Dellinger Avenue will remain closed to all non-essential through traffic during this period. This closure is in place due to the ongoing nature of the work, which includes overnight pump operations and early morning activity that are required to maintain progress and ensure the project’s timely and safe completion.
At this time, access is strictly limited to local traffic only, including residents, buses and service vehicles which may be required to enter from one end of the road or the other.
We respectfully request that all residents and members of the public avoid traveling through the construction area on Dellinger Avenue while construction is actively underway. This will help prevent unnecessary congestion, reduce potential delays, and, most importantly, support the safety of both the construction crews and the public.
We greatly value and appreciate your continued patience, understanding, and cooperation as we work to complete these important infrastructure upgrades. Your support is instrumental in helping us deliver long-term improvements that benefit the entire community.
Paolo Busti Foundation names Elizabeth Riter as Outstanding Italian-American. Elizabeth Riter is being honored as an Outstanding Italian-American by the Paolo Busti Cultural Foundation of Genesee County for her countless hours of community service.
Liz will receive her award at the Foundation Scholarship Dinner planned for 6:30 p.m. June 10 at Batavia Downs. Tickets may be purchased at Ben’s Appliances, 634 East Main St, or from any board member.
Liz relocated to Batavia in 1988 after completing her Master’s degree at Alfred University. A born leader, Liz became involved in the Batavia Area Jaycees, soon becoming Individual Development Vice President and Community Services Vice President. Community Involvement led to Liz’s commitment to make Batavia and Genesee County a better place.
Liz began her career at GCASA, The Genesee Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, now UConnectCare. Her role as Prevention/Student Assistance Counselor at Notre Dame High School in Batavia led to her role as the Chief Compliance and Quality Assurance Director.
Assuming roles of Secretary, Vice President and President of the Board of Directors of the Genesee County Mental Health Association were inevitable. Leading with her strength and her kindness, Liz volunteered for the Parent Teacher Organization at Robert Morris Elementary School, serving as Vice President and later President.
Liz has continued to give and give, volunteering for Genesee Cancer Assistance and the Batavia Rotary Club. Liz and her husband John have chaired the YMCA Invest in Youth/Strong Communities campaign together several times and Liz has served on the United Memorial Medical Center Quality Committee Board for the last 3 years.
Liz attributes much of her Italian heritage to the importance of family and tradition. The values of respect, kindness, helping others, loyalty to family and friends, honesty and hard work shaped Liz’s future and were instilled in her children. Elizabeth Riter is the perfect person to be receiving the “Outstanding Italian-American of Genesee County” Award. Her Italian background and strong Italian values learned, which have influenced Liz’s commitment to serve, while fulfilling the demands of career, wife and mother, are to be admired and recognized.
Liz’s maternal great-grandparents, Maria (Tomasso) and Joseph Basile, came from Campobasso, Italy. Liz’s grandmother Rita was the youngest of their six children. Liz’s maternal great-grandparents were Michael, who was originally from Modugno, Italy and Teresa Razzante. Her grandfather Eugene was the eldest of their nine children.
