Monday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on August 18, 2025
Stranger Things sneaks through late for Batavia Open upset
After sitting patiently for most of the mile, Stranger Things slipped through a gap late to win the $12,800 Open Handicap pacing feature at Batavia Downs on Saturday night.
Driver Shawn McDonough kept Stranger Things in third as Lip Reader A and Fulsome battled for the lead. Heading into the stretch, Egomania tired and drifted, opening the lane for McDonough. Stranger Things shot through and nipped Lip Reader A at the wire by a head in 1:53.4.
It was the seventh win of the year for Stranger Things, who returned $14.80 for the victory. The horse is owned by Kathy Schoeffel and James Reuther and trained by Angelo Nappo.
Earlier, Davey Day Trader went wire-to-wire in the $12,000 Open II pace, holding off Great Service to win in 1:54.4. It was also his seventh victory of the season.
Drew Monti led all drivers with four wins on the card, while David Russo topped trainers with two.
Live racing continues Thursday at Batavia Downs, with carryovers in both the Pick-5 and Jackpot Super Hi-5 wagers.
Live Music
Ur Daddy’s Rock & Roll Band takes the stage tonight from 6–9 p.m. at the Indian Falls Log Cabin Restaurant, 1227 Gilmore Rd. Enjoy live music, BBQ specials fresh off the outdoor smoker, and a great night out — rain or shine.
The Bulldawgs honor Javarius Gus-Williams
The Batavia Bulldawgs opened their football season Saturday at Van Detta Stadium with a heartfelt tribute to 10-year-old Javarius Gus-Williams, who passed away in a February house fire. Before the JV game, players presented his family with commemorative jerseys and a helmet signed by the team. A moment of silence was held, and this season all players will wear a #97 decal while the CheerDawgs display his number on their bows.
Genesee County Charity Riders raise funds for Crossroads House
The Genesee County Charity Riders hit the road on Saturday, holding a one-hundred-mile ride to support Crossroads House in Batavia. About 50 riders took part in the event, which lasted roughly four hours and wrapped up with lunch at TF Browns.
Vice President Kevin Zito explained why the group decided on this cause. He said while they had already planned one charity ride earlier this year for Disabled American Veterans, a personal experience at Crossroads House made him realize just how important the facility is. He told the group that many of their members had also been touched by the care Crossroads House provides, and they unanimously agreed to hold an additional ride in its honor.
The ride began at 11 Liberty Street, with 15 patched members of the new riding club leading the way and several stops along the route. Organizers say the next ride is already in the works, set to benefit “Shop with a Cop” this fall.
Those who missed Saturday’s ride can still support the cause by donating directly to Crossroads House, Batavia’s comfort-care home that continues to serve families during their most difficult times.
Ghost Walks return this October
Back by popular demand, the Holland Land Office Museum is hosting ghost walks on Fridays in October. The West Side Ghost Walks happen October 10 and 24, while the Downtown Batavia Ghost Walks run October 3 and 17. Both begin at 7 and 7:30 p.m.
Led by Connie Boyd, each walk features chilling tales of Batavia’s past, from murders and hangings to psychics and spirits. Admission is $15, or $10 for museum members, with reservations required.
Tours are limited to 25 people. For tickets and details, visit hollandlandoffice.com.
