Monday News Brief

Batavia High Launches New State-Mandated Smartphone Ban — First Day Called a ‘Smashing Success

Joanne Beck with the Batavian reports, summer has drawn to a close, and Batavia City Schools welcomed students back this week with a major change — no smartphones during the school day.
Starting Thursday, staff at Batavia High School collected devices from students in grades 7 through 12 at arrival, storing them in color-coded pouches and folders. Principal Jenni Wesp says the first day went even better than expected.
“I would say our new policy has been a smashing success, and I am incredibly proud of the students and staff at BHS — they rock.”
The policy follows a new state law signed by Governor Kathy Hochul that restricts student access to phones, smart watches, and earbuds unless needed for medical or academic reasons.
Superintendent Jason Smith says students were cooperative, and teachers noticed a difference in class right away — with more engagement and even more conversations in the cafeteria.
Smith called it a “good difference,” and both he and Wesp praised families, staff, and students for their support of the change.

Genesee Chorale Holds First Rehearsal Tonight in Batavia

The Genesee Chorale kicks off its first rehearsal tonight from 7 to 9 at St. James Episcopal Church in Batavia.
This community group of 30 to 50 singers is preparing a holiday concert called “Letters from Father Christmas,” set for December 13th.
Membership is $30 per semester, but anyone can check out a rehearsal or two for free. If you love to sing, stop by and join the Genesee Chorale tonight!

Batavia, Le Roy/Cal-Mum Open Football Season With Wins; OAE Falls in Opener

Batavia opened its season with a 41–21 win over Honeoye Falls-Lima Friday night.
Quarterback Will Stevens threw for 80 yards and a touchdown, while Maggio Buchholz led the ground game with 102 yards and two scores. He also made 13 tackles on defense. Lakoda Mruczek added two interceptions returned for touchdowns.

Le Roy/Cal-Mum also earned a victory, defeating Attica 20–12.
Quarterback Brady McClurg connected with Donovan Gaillard for a 20-yard touchdown, while Cameron Riggi and Connor Elmore each added rushing scores. Riggi led the defense with seven tackles.
Meanwhile, Oakfield-Alabama/Elba dropped its opener to East Rochester/Gananda 21–13.
Senior Nick Scott rushed for 61 yards and a touchdown, while junior Brayden Jachimowicz added 47 yards, a rushing score, and an interception on defense.

Weekend Genesee County High School Soccer Roundup

In girls soccer, Warsaw blanked Alexander 4–0, while Batavia rolled past Attica 5–1. Byron-Bergen opened the season with a 4–2 win over Our Lady of Mercy, behind four goals from senior Grace DiQuattro.
In boys action, Batavia topped Greece Olympia 3–1. Byron-Bergen/Elba edged Perry 2–1, and Le Roy/Cal-Mum shut out Avon 1–0. Honeoye slipped past Pavilion/York 3–2, while Dansville outlasted Attica/Alexander 3–2.

Senior Luncheon Set for Tuesday Septemeber 16th at South Alabama Fire Hall

The We’ve Only Just Begun Senior Luncheon will be held Tuesday September 16th from 11:30 to 1:30 at the South Alabama Fire Hall on Judge Road in Oakfield.
This month’s theme is “Football … Go Bills,” or wear your favorite team’s colors. Guest speaker Lisa Wittmeyer from Catholic Charities will share resources and benefits available to seniors.
Bring a dish to pass and enjoy lunch, fun, and fellowship with old and new friends.

Arc GLOW Highlights Direct Support Professionals During Recognition Week

It’s Direct Support Professional Week, and Arc GLOW is honoring the more than 650 DSPs across its programs, including Daniel Crofts, who works with the Genesee IGNITE program at Genesee Community College.
IGNITE offers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities a two-year college experience with classes, internships, and campus activities. Crofts says his role is about more than care — it’s about fostering independence and helping students grow through daily lessons, activities, and community involvement.
Crofts, a DSP for 15 years, says the work is rewarding because it makes a visible difference in people’s lives. He encourages anyone interested in the field to explore job shadowing or internships through Arc GLOW.

Genesee County High School Volleyball Scores from the Weekend

In Genesee County volleyball action, Notre Dame Batavia swept Warsaw 3–0 in Class D play.
Le Roy also stayed perfect on the season with a 3–0 win over Greece Arcadia, taking sets 25–10, 25–13, and 25–9. Key performers included Heather Reschke with five aces, Shea Williams with five aces and nine kills, and Evy Kanaley with 10 assists.
Greece Arcadia’s Mya Pike had four kills, and Vanessa Danilenko contributed eight assists.
Le Roy will host Wayland-Cohocton on Wednesday at 6 PM.