Friday News Brief

Genesee County Honors First Responders for Bravery in Thruway Bus Crash

First responders and support personnel were recognized Wednesday afternoon by the Genesee County Legislature for their “exceptional bravery, professionalism and dedication” during the tragic tour bus crash on the Thruway in Pembroke on August 22nd.
Emergency Management Coordinator Tim Yaeger called it a true demonstration of teamwork, noting that about 30 responders, including firefighters, paramedics, law enforcement officers, dispatchers, coroners and support staff, worked seamlessly under extreme and uncertain circumstances.
Legislature Chair Rochelle Stein read a proclamation honoring their swift action in providing critical care, redirecting traffic, managing communications, and bringing order to chaos.
Certificates of appreciation were also presented by State Senator George Borrello and Assemblyman Steve Hawley.
Among those recognized were members of multiple fire districts, EMS crews, Mercy Flight, the Sheriff’s Office, Emergency Communications, Public Health, Mental Health, and Social Services.
The Legislature praised their service as embodying the highest traditions of sacrifice and duty, and expressed the community’s enduring gratitude.

Live Music at LeRoy Farmers Market Tomorrow

The LeRoy Farmers Market continues tomorrow, Saturday, September 27th, at Trigon Park from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Shoppers can enjoy fresh local produce, handmade goods, and live entertainment. This week’s featured performers are Road Less Travelled, bringing their folk-pop sound to the market stage.
It’s a chance to support local farmers, connect with neighbors, and enjoy music while you shop.

Redevelopment Proposed for Former Days Inn on Oak Street

Joanne Beck with the Batavian reports, The long-vacant Days Inn property at 200 Oak Street in Batavia could soon see major changes.
Developer Jayesh Patel of Rudra Management has proposed demolishing part of the site to build a climate-controlled self-storage facility, along with small retail space and market-rate townhomes.
The plan would shrink the oversized parking lot, restore green space, and, according to architects, be “transformative for the neighborhood.”
City Manager Rachael Tabelski recommended sending the project to the Planning and Development Committee, which will consider a zoning change from Commercial-2 to Planned Development, opening the door to mixed uses.
Councilman Bob Bialkowski cautioned about traffic congestion and density, while Council President Eugene Jankowski noted council will act only after a committee review.
A public hearing will be scheduled before any rezoning or site plan approval.
Tabelski said the project could finally revitalize a property long seen as a burden and bring welcome change to Oak Street.

Prime Rib Dinner in Elba Tomorrow

The Elba United Methodist Church will host a Prime Rib Dinner tomorrow from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at 8 Chapel Street in Elba.
Dinner includes prime rib, potatoes, vegetables, applesauce, roll, dessert, and a beverage, plus a bake sale during the event.
Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for kids under 12, and free for children under 5.
Reservations are recommended but not required — call 585-757-2224.

Batavia Leaders Reinforce Expectations After Homecoming Incident

The City of Batavia, the Batavia City School District, and the Batavia Police Department are reinforcing expectations for conduct at community and school events.
Friday’s Homecoming game drew a large, spirited crowd at VanDetta Stadium, but an incident afterward overshadowed the celebration. Leaders say disruptive or unsafe behavior will not be tolerated.
New rules include: students in 8th grade and under must be accompanied by an adult, no group congregating in the stadium, spectators must remain seated except for concessions or restrooms, no re-entry once someone leaves, and anyone failing to meet expectations may be removed or restricted from future events.
City Manager Rachael Tabelski emphasized that events should showcase the best of Batavia, while Police Chief Shawn Heubusch warned that criminal conduct will result in arrest and prosecution.
Officials say the goal is safe, positive, and welcoming events for all.

Thursday Section V Volleyball Results in Genesee County

In Section V volleyball Thursday, Elba topped Attica three sets to one, led by Jada Fite’s 8 assists and 3 aces. Notre Dame swept Holley in three straight, while Pembroke blanked Oakfield-Alabama, also 3-0.
LeRoy stayed unbeaten at 10-0, defeating Avon in three. Evy Kanaley had 34 assists, Chloe Moran 19 digs, and Shea Williams 21 kills.
The win marked Coach Sue Staba’s 100th career victory in just five seasons. LeRoy travels to Geneseo Friday night for a key league matchup.

Soccer Scores

In girls soccer Thursday, Oakfield-Alabama/Elba fell to Bergen, 5–0, despite a strong effort from Lydia Ross, who recorded 22 saves in goal.
On the boys side, LeRoy/Caledonia-Mumford rolled past Livonia, 6–1, to continue their strong season.