Monday News Brief

Severe Drought Expands in Genesee County

Drought conditions are intensifying across Genesee County. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, nearly 60 percent of the county ,mostly the northern half — is now in a severe drought, with the rest under moderate drought. That means crop and pasture loss is likely, and water shortages are common in these conditions.
Governor Kathy Hochul has enacted a two-week statewide outdoor burn ban through October 15. All uncontained fires, including brush burning, open cooking fires, and campfires , are prohibited. Backyard fire pits and small, contained campfires under three feet are still allowed.
Residents are being asked to conserve water. Simple steps include watering lawns only when necessary, fixing leaks, reusing collected water for plants, and washing only full loads of dishes and laundry.
All of Western New York is currently at high fire risk, meaning fires can start easily and spread quickly in the dry conditions.

Wilkins Named Transportation Coordinator at Byron-Bergen

Byron-Bergen Central School District has named Robert Wilkins as its new Transportation Coordinator. Wilkins has been with the district for 12 years, serving as a bus driver, cleaner, Head Bus Driver, and sometimes mechanic.
In his new role, he’ll oversee the Transportation Department and ensure the safe and efficient delivery of students. Superintendent Pat McGee says he’s confident Wilkins will lead with continued excellence.
Known as “Mr. Bob” to elementary students, Wilkins officially began the role on September 29th.

Jankowski Finishes 9th at NRA World Shooting Championship

Batavia City Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. placed 9th in the professional division and 13th overall at the 2025 NRA World Shooting Championship, held October 1st through 4th at Camp Atterbury, Indiana.
The competition featured 177 shooters tackling 12 courses across multiple firearm disciplines. All competitors used provided firearms and ammunition to ensure a level playing field.
Jankowski called the event “an amazing experience and a big challenge,” citing limited time to learn each firearm before competition.

It was a huge night under the lights for Genesee County football

Notre Dame/Byron-Bergen rolled to a 56–20 win over Oakfield-Alabama/Elba, powered by Chase Antinore’s monster performance. Antinore opened the game with a 36-yard pick-six and went on to account for six total touchdowns , rushing, receiving, and even passing , plus a fumble recovery. The Irish forced five turnovers and move to 2–3 on the season.
Alexander/Pembroke stayed unbeaten, improving to 4–0 with a 40–27 road win over Le Roy/Cal-Mum. Ryder Reichert and Brett Maloney each ran for over 100 yards, and Maloney added a 79-yard punt return score. Brody Heckman added two rushing TDs.
Attica held off Geneseo/Mount Morris 22–21, thanks to two touchdowns from Blake Kines and a strong defensive night led by Landyn Nagel’s interception and safety.
Meanwhile, Batavia suffered its first loss of the year, falling to Brockport 27–6.
In other action, Roy-Hart/Barker topped York/Pavilion 30–23 in a hard-fought matchup.

Medicare Open Enrollment Approaches

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney is reminding seniors and eligible residents that Medicare’s annual Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7. This is the best time to review your coverage, compare plans, and make changes for the year ahead. Options include Original Medicare with optional Part D drug coverage, or Medicare Advantage plans. Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s important to check for updates to costs or benefits. Any changes made will take effect January 1, 2026.

Duke Lavictoire Sets New Track Record at Batavia Downs

Duke Lavictoire put on a show Saturday night at Batavia Downs, winning the $12,500 Open Handicap Trot and setting a new track record for aged trotting geldings. Driven by Jim Morrill Jr., Duke Lavictoire battled three-wide early before taking control and holding off Valentine Express to win by a length in 1:55 — breaking the previous 2022 record of 1:55.1. The gelding is owned and trained by Brett Derue, who’s been red-hot at Batavia, sending 15 winners from 41 starters since relocating horses from Saratoga.
Lanjo Lee also shined Saturday, winning the $12,500 Open Handicap Pace in gate-to-wire fashion with Kyle Cummings in 1:52.4. Live racing returns Wednesday at 6 p.m. with a Jackpot Super Hi-5 carryover of $1,256 in Race 13.