Local News

Hiago Barros de Souza from men’s soccer (L) and Julia Ashworth from women’s soccer (R) were named Genesee Athletes of the Week for the week of August 26

Press Release:

Barros de Souza and Ashworth Named Genesee Athletes of the Week

BATAVIA, NY… Midfielder Hiago Barros de Souza from men’s soccer and forward Julia Ashworth from women’s soccer were named Genesee Athletes of the Week for the week of August 26. Both players helped Genesee to two wins each over the first weekend of competition.

Hiago Barros de Souza scored three goals in Saturday’s 10-1 victory over Clinton Community College. The sophomore from Cerquilho, Brazil then added a pair of goals in Genesee’s 12-1 victory over North Country CC to win the inaugural Andie Carpenter Memorial Cup.

Julia Ashworth from women’s soccer scored her first collegiate goal on Saturday against Clinton Community College. The freshman from Hornell, NY followed that performance with scoring a hat trick against North Country Community College on Sunday afternoon as the Cougars played in honor and memory of Andie Carpenter.

The soccer programs are home on Saturday, August 31 starting at 1pm in an NJCAA Region III doubleheader against Mohawk Valley Community College. The women will play at 1pm and the men will follow at 3pm. Both games will be streamed live on www.geneseeathletics.com

Press Release:

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing / testing fire hydrants on Tuesday, August 27th, Wednesday, August 28th and Thursday, August 29th from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the general area of North of Main Street and West of Bank Street. Homes and businesses nearby will be affected. These tests may result in a temporary discoloration of water in that area. As in the past, please do not attempt to wash any clothing if your water appears discolored. If you do experience a discoloration of your water, run cold water for about 5 minutes or until clear.

Press Release:

On August 24, 2019 at 3:11 P.M., Troopers out of SP Batavia responded to a two vehicle collision at the intersection of Sumner Road and Harlow Road in the town of Darien. Further investigation revealed that a 2017 Buick was traveling north bound on Harlow road and failed to stop at the stop sign at the intersection of Sumner Road. The 2015 Dodge was traveling west bound on Sumner Road and struck the 2017 Buick on the passenger side. The operator of the 2017 Buick, Shirley Bane, 68 of Lockport, NY was pronounced at the scene by the Genesee County Coroner. Other occupants of the Dodge were treated for non-life threatening injuries.

The Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the NYSP Collision Reconstruction Unit assisted in this investigation.

There were 90 members of the Western New York Muckdogs at the game Sunday. They ran out with the players for the National Anthem and talked to players like Troy Johnston (27).

Press Release:

BATAVIA – The Batavia Muckdogs dropped a game to the Williamsport Crosscutters, 10-3 to start a three-game home stand but retained the half-game lead of first place as West Virginia lost on Sunday as well.

Batavia (37-31) had eight hits but Williamsport was powered by shortstop Bryson Stott, the first round draft pick this year of the Philadelphia Phillies, who went 3-for-5.

Batavia’s offense was led by Milton Smith II who had two hits while Troy Johnston had a RBI double and scored, Nic Ready, Sean Reynolds, Harrison Dinicola and Andrew Turner had hits.

Eli Villalobos struck out four in three innings while Joey Steele struck out three in two innings.

The Muckdogs are home Monday and the park will be “barking” for the 7:05 p.m. for Pups in the Park. It’s the “dog days of summer” so there will be $1 and $2 food and drink specials.

The first 1,000 fans will receive a free tumbler from Genesee Orthopaedics and UMMC.

Tuesday is a special 11 a.m. start as it is Senior Day and all general admission tickets are $2 and it’s a bonus Pups in the Park Day.

Tickets are available at muckdogs.com or stop by the Dwyer Stadium Ticket office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. The number is 585-483-3647.

The Muckdogs are on Facebook, twitter and Instagram and now have a BataviaMuckdogs snapchat account. Follow the team on social media for game updates and videos and photos during the games of fans and players.

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — Joseph A. Amico Sr. Passed away on Thursday (Aug. 22) surrounded by his family.

Mr. Amico had a career as a builder, but he was also heavily involved in harness racing in western New York for over 55 years. He first got involved through ownership of a horse named Butch Mac in 1960 and had been an active owner in the sport until 2016. He owned a total of 60 horses during that time including High C Byrd, Oxford Flyer, Eyredale, Fays Rene, Better Bomb, Affable Poplar N, Prince Lee Norm, Tulip T Collins and Best Ears.

Mr. Amico is predeceased by his wife, Norma (Agricoltoso) Amico; brother, Jim (Fran) Amico; sister, Mary (Anthony) Gianni; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Raymond (Carmella) Agricoltoso, Alfred (Mary) Agricoltoso; Ida (Tony) Spaziano, Martha (Vincent) Pettrone, Jane (Santo) Pellitteri, Catherine (Ray) Magliozzi, Celia (John) Izzo, Virginia (Louie) Trombetta.

Mr. Amico is survived by his children, Joseph A. Amico, Jr., Angela (Richard) Wolf; grandchildren, Deana (Stephen) Percassi, Joseph E. (Alison) Amico, Heather (James) Rodriguez, Amber (David) Santos, Alexa Wolf, Ricky Wolf; great grandchildren, Alexandra, Dylan, Stephen, Carly and Collin; many nieces, nephews and friends.

There will be no prior calling. On Tuesday (Aug. 27) all are invited to attend his Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Brigid Church, 18 Gibson St., Bergen, NY. Interment is private.

Those that wish to do so, donations in his memory may be directed to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Rt. 31 W, P.O. Box 489, Albion, NY 14411. The family would like to thank all of Mr. Amico’s caregivers and neighbors for their love and support.

A fatal crash on Harlow Road in Darien is the subject of investigation by State Police.
Investigators report that an SUV operated by an unnamed female driver blew through the intersection at Harlow and Sumner Roads Saturday afternoon before being struck by a pickup truck, sending both vehicles off the roadway.
The female driver of the SUV was killed in the crash.
The three passengers of the pickup truck were transported to the hospital.
State Police have yet to identify the woman or the other passengers of the truck.

A Medina man is facing DWI and other charges after Genesee County deputies say he caused a crash involving a train.
Deputies say 27 year old Brendan Kotarski stopped his car on the railroad tracks between Depot Street and Water Street in Corfu before midnight Sunday.
Kotarski and his passenger ran from the scene before a train hit his car, forcing it off the tracks.
He is charged with DWI, Reckless Driving, Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident and Reckless Endangerment.
When police arrived, they determined Kotarski was under the influence of alcohol.
Kotarski was released and is due back in Corfu Village Court on September 9th.

A Tonawanda man jailed without bail in connection with a two year old stabbing in the City.
Batavia Police have arrested 60 year old Carey Culverhouse on an arrest warrant out of Batavia City Court following an investigation into a stabbing on East Main Street that allegedly occurred in September of 2017.
Culverhouse was located by Tonawanda Police and turned over to local authorities were he was arraigned on a count of first degree Assault and committed to the Genesee County Jail without bail.

A Rochester resident is behind bars following a disturbance on North Spruce Street.
24 year old Alan Price of Chili Ave in Rochester was taken into custody on counts of Strangulation, Criminal Contempt and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
Price was accused of causing the disturbance in April of this year and was ultimately ordered to be held on $5,000 bail in the county clink.

Walnut Street man in lock up after arrest for a prior Batavia burglary.
City Police have apprehended 27 year old Malik Ayala on a count of second degree Burglary for an incident on Naramore Drive back in October of last year.
Ayala was accused of illegally entering and stealing property from the residence.
After being arraigned and released in City Court Ayala was turned over to Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies who are holding him on unrelated charges.

20 total arrested at Darien Lake concerts over the weekend.
Only one individual was arrested during the KISS concert Friday evening.
51 year old Richard Quesnelle of Ontario Canada was arrested for Harassment after allegedly pushing another patron to the ground and may be the last person arrested at a KISS concert in Western New York as this was said to be the bands final “farewell” tour.
19 people were arrested at Saturday’s Florida Georgia Line Concert, with the majority of the offenders from outside the area including seven from Ontario Canada and only one Genesee County resident.

(Photo courtesy of Paul White)

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — Quincy Blue Chip (Chapter Seven-Sirenuse) had a big night at Batavia Downs on Friday night (Aug. 23). She won the $118,800 New York Sire Stake (NYSS) sophomore filly trot, moved into the points and money earnings lead for her age and gender bracket and broke the standing track record for second year distaff trotters.

Driver Jim Morrill Jr. left the gate easily with Quincy Blue Chip and took almost all of the :28.1 first quarter to make the front. But once they got the lead, the rest was history. With an open two-length lead, Quincy Blue Chip tripped the next two timers in :58.1 and 1:27.2, the last with With Out A Doubt (Marcus Miller) and Sensibility (Scott Zeron) directly at her flank pushing the issue. But Morrill let Quincy Blue Chip have her head and she trotted stronger as they headed into the stretch. Down the lane she was on cruise and crossed the line wrapped-up in 1:55.4.

“I got her off the gate and eased her to the front. Once she got there she was very strong,” said her driver Morrill. “I popped the plugs at the three-quarters and she was gone. She trotted down the stretch a thousand; as fast as any 3-year-old filly I ever sat behind.”

The winning time of 1:55.4 was a new track record for 3-year-old trotting fillies, breaking the old mark of 1:56.4 set by Celebrity Ruth in 2017 and tied by Seventh Heaven that same year.

It was the seventh win of the year for Quincy Blue Chip ($3.10) and it pushed her 2019 earnings to $343,425. She has now surpassed the half-million dollar mark lifetime with with $525,387 in the bank.

Quincy Blue Chip is owned by Barbara and James Boese and Richard Banca, who also does the training.

Before starting in the $225,000 NYSS final on the Night of Champions at Batavia Downs on Saturday (Sept. 14), Quincy Blue Chip will compete in the Hudson Filly Trot at Yonkers Raceway on Saturday (Aug. 31).

Morrill had a big night in the bike besides this win as he ended up with a hat trick on the card to lead all drivers on Friday.

Two divisions of the $15,000 Excel “A” series were also contested on Friday, producing the following results.

Qiss Me Blue Chip (Chapter Seven-Make It Blue Chip)
Driver – Billy Davis Jr.
Owner – Rick Zeron Stable, James Walker, Noblock Racing Stable and Blue Chip Bloodstock
Trainer – Rick Zeron
Breeder – Ray Schnittker, Ted Gewertz, Charles Iannazzo and Blue Chip Bloodstock
Time – 1:58.2
Mutuel – $9.70

Amal Hall (Credit Winner-Arabella Hall)
Driver – Jason Bartlett
Owner – Andy Miller Stable and DumaineHaven
Trainer – Julie Miller
Breeder – Walnut Hall
Time – 1:57.3
Mutuel – $2.40

Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Saturday (Aug. 24). Post time for the first race is 6:00 p.m.

Winning pitcher Edgar Martinez fires a pitch to the plate during Batavia’s 7-5 victory Friday night.

Press Release:

Speed and power leads Batavia to 7-5 win to keep first place

BATAVIA – With West Virginia winning to games in Auburn Friday night, the pressure was on the Batavia Muckdogs to win and keeps slim first place lead in the New York-Penn League Pinckney Division.

Trailing 3-1, the Muckdogs rallied with speed and power, defeating State College, 7-5

Nic Ready had another monster game for Batavia (37-29) hitting an inside-the-park home run, his ninth of the season.

The Muckdogs are home tonight at 7:05 p.m. with State College with post-game fireworks. The game Sunday against Williamsport is at 5:05 p.m.

Ready, a 23rd round draft pick of the Miami Marlins this year, had two hits, 4 RBI’s and made several dazzling plays at third including one to end the game. Ready is an active member of the U.S. Air Force, where he graduated this past spring.

J.D. Orr is not only leading the league in average, but making a late-season push to the .400 mark as he went 3-for-5 with three runs, his third triple of the season and his seventh double. Orr, a 10th round Marlins pick out of Wright State is hitting .390.

Sean Reynolds, who blasted a 418-foot home run Thursday night, was walked twice, so the 21-year-old 4th round draft pick of the Marlins in 2016 stole his third base of the season. Reynolds, who is 6-foot-8, 243 pounds, also went to third on a ball in the dirt, showing his speed.

Troy Johnston (double his 13th) also had two hits while Julian Infante had a RBI.

Jack Strunc stole a base and Milton Smith II stole his 19th base of the year.

Johnston and Strunc were playing in front of their fathers.
“I saw them behind home plate … it was pretty awesome,” said Johnston. “It’s always good to get a Muckdogs win. That West Virginia series will be huge, we are hoping to win a couple there.”
Strunc added, “We have to meep this winning up and hopefully make the playoffs. It always feels good to play good in front of your pops.”

Edgar Martinez picked up the win, his third of the season, going five innings with five strikeouts and a walk. M.D. Johnson went two strong innings and
Brock Love picked up his first hold going on inning with no hits and two strikeouts.

Batavia closer Evan Brabrand earned his 13th save going one inning with a hit, no runs, no walks and two strikeouts.

Upcoming schedule: Tonight home 7:05 p.m. and Saturday home, 7:05 p.m. against State College. Sunday 5:05 p.m. against Williamsport, Monday, home at 7:05 p.m. against Williamsport and Tuesday’s game is at 11:05 a.m.

Tickets are available at muckdogs.com or stop by the Dwyer Stadium Ticket office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. The number is 585-483-3647.

The Muckdogs are on Facebook, twitter and Instagram and now have a BataviaMuckdogs snapchat account. Follow the team on social media for game updates and videos and photos during the games of fans and players.

New York has now joined 16 other states with the recently enacted red flag gun law.
The new law takes effect today and prevents people who show signs of being a risk to themselves or others from owning or buying a gun, rifle or shotgun. School officials, relatives and household members will have the right to petition the state Supreme Court for an “extreme risk protection order.”
Such an order would allow police to immediately remove guns from the person’s home.

State Police bust a Rochester resident for bail jumping in Alabama.
Troopers out of Batavia took 54 year old Gina Welsher into custody Thursday afternoon on a criminal arrest warrant out of Alabama Town Court from April of this year.
Welsher was charged with Criminal Contempt and Bail Jumping and was subsequently jailed in lieu of $2,500 in the Genesee County Jail.

Darien man arrested for intentional property damage.
20 year old Zachary Breissinger of County Line Road was arrested by Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies following an incident Thursday night at a County Line Road address in Darien.
He was charged with third degree Criminal Mischief for allegedly damaging someone else’s property intentionally.
Breissinger was release under supervision of Genesee Justice.

The Batavia City School District Foundation is reminding community members about their Engraved Brick Campaign at VanDetta Stadium at Woodward Field.
Orders need to be received by Saturday, September 1st in order to be installed in front of the weight room by this Fall.
Each brick is $100 and order forms are available on the BCSD Foundation website at bataviacsd.org or at the Batavia City School District’s Instructional Services’ office at 260 State Street, Batavia.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced that the Great New York State Fair will offer admission tickets for this weekend and next weekend for $1.
The “Summer Send-Off” tickets, good for admission August 24, 25, 31 and September 1, will be sold online, here or patrons can pay at the entrance gates.
Those who buy tickets online will be entered into a drawing to win a Lifetime Fair Pass, which allows the holder to attend the Fair for free for the rest of his or her life.
As part of the promotion, unused tickets from this year’s Fair will be accepted at the 2020 Fair.

An annual favorite at Batavia Downs this weekend.
The Weiner Dog races will be held this Sunday following the regular racing card.
The Dachshunds draw one of the biggest crowds of the season at the downs.
These dogs dash in 10 heats beginning about 4:30 Sunday afternoon.

(Photo courtesy of Fotowon)

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — It’s not too often Batavia Downs gets to host a Hambletonian finalist and Dan Patch Award winner all in the same night, but Saturday (Aug. 24) will be one such occasion as Gimpanzee (Chapter Seven-Steamy Windows) will be in town to compete in the $118,500 New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) for 3-year-old colt and gelding trotters.

After going a perfect nine for nine, sweeping all the NYSS legs and final and closing out the year with a win in the $600,000 Breeders Crown, Gimpanzee was named the Dan Patch 2-year-old colt trotter of 2018. He picked up at three right where he left off when he won his first start in the $215,200 Empire Breeders Classic at Vernon Downs and then two consecutive NYSS events. He also took a new lifetime mark of 1:52.4 at Tioga Downs and ran his lifetime unbeaten streak to 12.

His next start was the Hambletonian elimination where he was parked the whole mile from post seven and finished fourth, only a length behind Green Manalishi in a time of 1:50.3. He advanced to the final and experienced almost the exact same trip; left from post seven, was parked the whole mile and finished a strong closing third, beaten only a length behind the winner Forbidden Trade in 1:51.

Gimpanzee’s first start in the three weeks since will be in the $58,700 division of the NYSS and for obvious reasons, he is heavily respected as the 1-5 morning line choice. Trainer Marcus Melander has his regular driver Hall of Famer Brian Sears in the bike and they drew post one in this seven-horse race.

There will only be win betting offered on the race.

The Batavia Downs track record for 3-year-old trotting colts is 1:54.3 set by Archangel in 2012 and later tied by his son Top Flight Angel in 2017. Given Gimpanzee’s 1:55, 7-1/2 length romp over the half at Yonkers back in June, this record could be in serious jeopardy.

In the second $59,800 split of the evening, Livinonthedash (Muscle Mass-Sunshine Glide) has been made the 2-1 morning choice and certainly looks the part.

Livinonthedash comes in with four wins (all on half-mile tracks) out of his last five starts, the only loss in that stretch being to Gimpanzee. Unraced at two, he made his first state stake start in the Excel A series where he made a break and was placed sixth. From there his fortunes turned around. After two overnight starts at Harrah’s Philadelphia, Livinonthedash has since been a formidable contender in the NYSS and has the highest money earned ($129,622) and is the third highest point-getter (179) in his bracket.

The father and son team of trainer Erv Miller and driver Marcus Miller will start from post four.

Winnerup (Credit Winner-Up Front Hotsey) looks to make his presence known despite having drawn post eight as he is the highest money winner ($126,945) and has the second most points (200). Winnerup also likes a half-mile track having won easily at Monticello and Yonkers and just getting beat at Saratoga last week by Livinonthedash.

Trainer Trond Smedshammer who usually drives Winnerup has put Brian Sears in the seat for this race and that is the first time anyone other than Smedshammer has sat behind this horse since April.

Lucky Weekend (Lucky Chucky-Weekend Vacation) has only missed the board once in his last six starts and that was due to a break while out of contention. He comes into this race off a win at Yonkers as well and that was gate to wire from post eight.

Jim Morrill Jr. picks up the lines for trainer Chris Lakata in here.

There are also two $15,000 Excel A races on the card. Post time for the first race is 6 p.m.

Press release:

The Genesee-Orleans-Wyoming Opioid Task Force invites the public to attend its Overdose Awareness Day activities from 4 to 7:30 p.m. next Wednesday (Aug. 28) at Austin Park on Jefferson Avenue in Batavia.

The event – “A Time to Remember, A Time to Act” – will feature keynote speakers Robert Kent, chief counsel for the state Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services, and Lori Drescher and Keith Greer, partners in the Rochester-based Recovery Coach University.

“Overdose Awareness Day is a time where we can come together to raise awareness, gather information and support families and loved ones as they struggle with substance use disorders and also to celebrate those in recovery,” said Sue Gagne, recovery center coordinator for Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse.

Food and soft drinks will be available for purchase, and the event also will include a kids’ zone, live music and free Narcan training.

For more information, go to www.gowopioidtaskforce.org.

The event is supported by a grant from Greater Rochester Health Foundation.

(Photos courtesy of Paul White)

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — The “Dog Days of Summer” at Batavia Downs doesn’t only refer to the weather. It also means it’s time for the annual Genesee Feeds Wiener Dog races. This popular event is happening once again on Sunday afternoon (Aug. 25) with post time for the first Dachshund dash scheduled for approximately 4:30 p.m. after the completion of the live harness racing card.

There will be 10 heats contested with each heat winner scoring a $25 Free Play voucher to Batavia Downs Gaming. The heat winners will then return for a championship race where the winning owner will receive $100 in free play, second place finisher $75 in Free Play and third place $50 in Free Play. The owners of the top three finishers will also get two complimentary buffets in the Batavia Downs clubhouse.

All entrants will receive doggy bags for their athletes from the official sponsor of the Wiener Dog races, Genesee Feeds of Batavia.

The doggy dashes draw one of the biggest crowds of the season to Batavia Downs and is the main event of “Family Fun Day” at the races.
“Family Fun Day is one of my favorite live racing days of the meet” said Director/General Manager of Live Racing, Todd Haight. “The kids always have a great time. You can bring the whole family out because there is something for everyone and you can eat, drink and enjoy everything going on the entire afternoon and it costs next to nothing.”

Treat the kids to a fun, affordable day out with $1 Sahlen’s hot dogs and soda. Then enjoy free pony rides from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. provided courtesy of Castilone Chrysler, Dodge, Ram and Jeep of Batavia.

There will also be special guest appearances by Pringles The Clown, Mr. Scribbles, Jason the Juggler, Johnathan the Magician and other fun activities like face painting and sand art for kids of all ages. And everything is presented in a clean, safe environment where kids can just enjoy themselves.

Admission and parking are free and live harness racing action begins at 1:15 p.m.

For more information including news, promotions, race replays and the upcoming live racing schedule including the New York Sire Stakes Night of Champions go to www.bataviadownsgaming.com/live-racing .

Sean Reynolds after a two-run home run in the 8th inning for Batavia.

Press Release:

Batavia Muckdogs come from behind to defeat State College and remain in first place

BATAVIA – For the better part of eight innings Thursday night, the Batavia Muckdogs were in danger dropping out of first place.
Enter the power of Nic Ready and Sean Reynolds.

After a Troy Johnston’s RBI single gave Batavia a 5-4 lead, Ready blasted a two-run double followed by a 418-foot home run by Reynolds to center field.
Batavia (36-29) scored seven runs and went on to win, 9-5.

West Virginia fell to Auburn, 5-2 to drop to 34-29, one game behind Batavia. State College is 33-32 and three back.
Batavia and State College play again tonight at 7:05 p.m.

The Muckdogs trailed, 2-0 in the bottom of the fourth when Ready crushed his eighth home run of the season to left field. The ball left the yard in such a hurry the left fielder never moved.

Ready finished with 4 RBI’s, and he returned from the New York-Penn League All-Star Game with six other teammates before the game.

“We are used to it, we like to think jet-lag is not a thing. We show up and play the game,” said Ready. “We got some good rest, got some fluids in us, hydrated and go get them tonight.

“We knew we were in the lineup, we were at the all-star game for a reason so we might as well show it at our home field,” Ready added.

Down 4-2 in the 8th, Ready, a 2019 Miami Marlins draft pick out of the U.S. Air Force, said the attitude was to win.

“We have a saying, ‘Dogs, Never Die,’ we are always in a fight, especially on our home turf, anything can happen,” Ready said. “A team could take the lead, we put up seven runs late and come up to win it. We love playing at home, a lot of fans came out and we appreciate it.”

Gunner Pollman, Batavia’s catcher, singles against State College.

The Muckdogs then played some outstanding defense as State College was threatening in the top of the sixth. Moises Castillo singled and Batavia centerfielder Milton Smith fired the ball to Muckdogs first baseman Sean Reynolds who alertly went to second base to nab Castillo. Second baseman
Andrew Turner tagged him out then fired to Nic Ready at third base to get David Vinsky who originally was trying to score.

On the mound for Batavia, Jackson Rose started and struck out one in 4.1 innings, then Joniker Villalobos struck out two in one inning. Jeremy Galindez tossed 2.1 innings of one-run ball with two strikeouts. With runners on and State College leading 4-2, Edison Suriel came on and got a strikeout to end the seventh.

Suriel stayed in for the win, improving to 3-2 and he went 1.1 innings striking out three.

Tonight, the first 1,000 fans will receive a free 2019 team photo. There were 1,166 fans at the game Thursday at Dwyer Stadium.
It is also Crafty Hour sponsored by Eli Fish for the first hour as all drafts are $3.

The Genesee County Economic Development Center is the game sponsor.
Saturday night there will be fireworks.

Upcoming schedule: Tonight home 7:05 p.m. and Saturday home, 7:05 p.m. against State College. Sunday 5:05 p.m. against Williamsport, Monday, home at 7:05 p.m. against Williamsport and Tuesday’s game is at 11:05 a.m.

Tickets are available at muckdogs.com or stop by the Dwyer Stadium Ticket office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. The number is 585-483-3647.

The Muckdogs are on Facebook, twitter and Instagram and now have a BataviaMuckdogs snapchat account. Follow the team on social media for game updates and videos and photos during the games of fans and players.

A sexual assault investigation at the SUNY Geneseo college campus has ended in arrest for a former student.
22 year old Philip Pang was arrested Wednesday on sexual abuse charges by investigators with the New York State Police Campus Sexual Assault Victims Unit.
Pang who currently resides downstate in Queens was a student at the Geneseo campus in 2014 and at the time of the reported incidents.
He was subsequently charged with first-degree criminal sexual act and first-degree sexual abuse for the alleged incident.

Deputies arrest a Warsaw woman for felony grand larceny.
Following investigation into an employee theft from a store in Geneseo Livingston County Deputies have taken a Warsaw woman into custody.
30 year old Chellcey Vetter is facing a felony count of fourth-degree grand larceny for allegedly stealing over $1,000 from a convenience store in Geneseo while she was working there from May through July of this year.
Vetter was accused of creating fake refunds, recording them as transactions and then pocketing the cash from the register.
She was ultimately released on her own recognizance.

Anyone interested in becoming a Batavia City Council person at-large has only one day left to submit letters to the City Republican committee.
The at-large seat is open because Adam Tabelski stepped down from his position as an at-large Council member after his wife Rachel was named assistant city manager.
Letters of interest in the at-large post must be emailed to GOP City Chairman David Saleh by this Saturday.
You can contact him at salehdavej@gmail.com

Union Street in Batavia is closed to all through traffic now through Friday, September 13th for construction including water main replacement, sidewalk installation and paving.
The closures will be between West Main Street & Richmond Avenue and Richmond Avenue & Oak Street.
Emergency response and residents of Union Street and Union Square will be permitted however all other motorist that regularly use Union Street are encouraged to seek alternative routes while the closure is in place.

The self-professed “Hottest Band in the World” is set to take the stage one final time in Western New York.
KISS will rock the Darien Lake Amphitheatre tonight as part of their farewell tour.
Tickets for the show are still available at the box office and through Live Nation.
The performance is set to start at 7:30 p.m.

The Buffalo Bills visit the Motor City tonight to try and keep their perfect preseason intact.
They’ll be in Detroit to take on the Lions at Ford Field.
Last week, the Bills beat the Carolina Panthers by a final score of 27 to 14.
Kickoff for tonight’s contest is set for 8 p.m.

A suspected tire slasher is behind bars in Batavia.
City Police have arrested 37 year old Jason Freeman of Hutchins St. and charged him with criminal mischief for puncturing two tires on a car parked on Osterhout Ave.
Freeman was jailed in lieu of $2,500 bail.

Union Street in Batavia is now closed to all through traffic.
The closure is due to construction of water main replacement, paving and sidewalk installation.
Beginning today, Union Street between West Main and Richmond, and Richmond and Oak will be closed. The street will remain closed until Sept 13th.
Arrangements have been made for property owners to access their homes but other motorists are asked to find an alternate route.

There are only two days left to let the City Republican committee know if you are interested in being a Batavia City Council person at-large.
One of three at-large seats is being vacated by Adam Tabelski since his wife Rachel has been named assistant city manager.
Letters of interest in the at-large post must be emailed to GOP City Chairman David Saleh by this Saturday.

The first place Batavia Muckdogs return home tonight following the All-star break.
The Dogs take on the State College Spikes in a six game home series that could decide the playoffs.
Play-by-play coverage on WBTA tonight with Pete Zehler begins at 6:55 p.m..

On Thursday, August 22nd through Friday, September 13th, Union Street in the City of Batavia will be closed to all through traffic. The closures will be between West Main Street & Richmond Avenue and Richmond Avenue & Oak Street. The closure is for construction activities associated with water main replacement, sidewalk installation and paving.

All motorist that regularly use Union Street are asked to seek alternative routes while the closure is in place. Emergency response and residents of Union Street and Union Square will be permitted within the closure for ingress and egress to properties. Caution is advised.

Contact the Bureau of Maintenance and ask to speak to the Superintendent at 585-345-6400 opt. 1 if you have any questions.

Batavia Council President Eugene Jankowski

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY (08/22/2019) Students, faculty and staff at Genesee Community College are excited to be welcoming the Batavia City Council President Eugene Jankowski, Jr. to campus on Monday, September 16, 2019 at 6 p.m. to speak to the campus community as well as the general public on various topics related to the local issues and concerns. Mr. Jankowski was invited to speak by GCC’s student Political Club, which is not affiliated with any specific political party.

“It is an honor to have Batavia Council President Eugene Jankowski coming to campus to share his perspective, knowledge and insights to our club as well as to the College and community in general,” said Dennis Austin, a GCC student who is the president of the Political Club and a native of Chicago. “We hope he will inform the next generation of civic leaders and change makers about the issues facing Batavia today, and also any longer term plans for legislation or policies that will impact this community.”

The student Political Club strives to create a safe environment for all students of every background to be able to openly share and discuss social, political and civic issues without negative recourse or divisiveness. Austin hopes the club will continue long after he has graduated, helping GCC become a premier location in upstate New York for open political discussion and thoughtful exchanges to help inspire new developments and also the social adjustments that promote forward movement.

Mr. Jankowski is a GCC alumnus, having received his associate degree in Police Science in 1977. After a short stint with the Genesee County Sheriff Department, he was hired by the City of Batavia Police graduating from the Niagara Falls Police Academy in 1979. During his 35-year tenure with the Batavia Police, he attended the FBI National Academy, an intensive and highly selective 11-week program held in Quantico, Virginia, to advance his knowledge in forensics, management, leadership and all facets of law enforcement. He is a professional firearms expert and continues to shoot competitively on a national level. In addition, Jankowksi has been the host of the Shot to the Heart reality television show that features couples involved in a variety of outdoor activities involving marksmanship, endurance and partnership.

He began his tenure on the Batavia Common Council in 2014 as an at-large member, and was elected by the Council to the role of president in 2018. He is very excited about the developments within the City of Batavia including the revitalization of downtown with new city apartments to attract millennials who seek state-of-the-art urban housing.

“I look forward to speaking with the College community and discussing some of the issues we are trying to address such as how to get GCC student-residents, who do not own cars, into the city so they can enjoy some of the benefits, such as the shops and restaurants,” Jankowski said. “I want to leave plenty of time for a question-answer period. I like to hear what is on people’s minds, listen to their concerns and interests and make as much of a connection as possible.”

His talk on September 16 will occur in room T102 of the Conable Technology Building, and is free and open to the general public.

For more information, contact Marketing Communications Associate Director Donna Rae Sutherland at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6616, or via email: dsutherland@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — When live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Friday (Aug. 23) at 6:00 p.m., the track will feature a $35,000 guaranteed pool on the early Pick-5 wager that runs from race one to race five. It is part of the United States Trotting Association’s (USTA) Strategic Wagering Program and as such, free program pages are available for those races on the USTA website (http://handicapping.ustrotting.com/) or by clicking here for a direct download. (https://www.trackmaster.com/freeContent/usta/freeContentFiles/hpl/btv0823x.pdf).

The actual carry-over is $14,913 and the $35,000 guaranteed pool is the largest in the history of Batavia Downs.

And to make it even more interesting, the fifth race of the Pick-5 is a $118,800 leg of the New York Sire Stakes for 3-year-old trotting fillies that has Quincy Blue Chip and Winndevie facing off against each other once again.

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — A short but select group of entrants will compete in one race for the winner’s share of the $118,800 up for grabs when the 3-year-old trotting fillies march into Batavia Downs for their 2019 New York Sire Stake (NYSS) local appearance.

Quincy Blue Chip and Winndevie have been the two best horses in the state series for the past two years and will once again line up and face off at Batavia in the fifth race with six other competitors trying to derail them both.

Quincy Blue Chip (Chapter Seven-Sirenuse) is having a career year with six wins, a lifetime mark of 1:53.2 and $284,025 in earnings to date. She won the $209,500 Empire Breeders Classic at Vernon Downs in May and three NYSS events since then. She was on a two-race win streak going into her last start at Vernon Downs where she made an untimely break going to the quarter, trying to get the lead.

Quincy Blue Chip currently sits in second place in points (191) and earnings ($160,715) in this series behind Winndevie, who also beat her in the NYSS 2-year-old final last year.

Quincy Blue Chip will try to get the best of her competition here and draws post five and trainer Richard Banca has regular driver Jim Morrill Jr. back up for this race. She has been made the track handicapper’s morning line choice at 2-1.

Winndevie (Credit Winner-Vida De Vie) is the top point-getter (212) and money earner ($166,385) in her class this year, that includes three wins and without missing the board in any of her NYSS events. She comes into this race off a lifetime best performance at Vernon Downs where she won in 1:54 flat and appears to be as sharp as she’s been at any point in her career.

Winndevie drew post eight and trainer Trond Smedshammer once again assigned Jason Bartlett to drive and that bodes well for her chances despite the post. She is listed at 7-2 morning line.

This is the last leg of the NYSS 3-year-old trotting fillies and as the points go, six of the eight horses racing here Friday have already made the final. The two horses who are outside looking in are Blue Ribbon Gal (Credit Winner-Carolla) who could move into the final group of eight by merely finishing fifth and gaining a minimum of five points and Avalonia (Muscles Yankee-Ava Marion) who is already mathematically eliminated.

Post time for the first race on Friday is 6 p.m.

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY (08/22/2019) As progress on the Ellicott Trail hiking and biking path continues, the opportunity to discuss the next phase of pedestrian and bicycle -friendly walkways is already scheduled. A “Complete Streets Workshop” is being held on Wednesday, August 28, 2019, 6-8:30 p.m. at Genesee Community College in the Conable Technology Building in room T121.

The workshop opportunity presented itself to GCC through GobikeBuffalo and a grant this group received to encourage communities to assess the walkability and bikeability of their region, as well as to inspire leaders to explore possibilities, and discuss practical planning and/or policy making. The workshop will include a short presentation, a “walkability audit” and a follow-up discussion that may help us envision how the Ellicott Trail could one day connect to a wider network.

City, town and county planners, elected officials, decision-makers, business leaders, as well as students, faculty and staff, hiking and biking enthusiasts, and those interested transportation options and safety should attend.

Interested participants should email their plan to attend to Donna Rae Sutherland, director of GCC’s Marketing Communications Office at dsutherland@genesee.edu. The event is currently scheduled in a room designed to accommodate 35 people, but can be readily relocated to a larger space as needed with advance notice.

“As a person who regularly rides a bicycle to work and travels down Hawley Drive, it is often unnerving to have trucks and cars pass you at 55 miles per hour,” Sutherland said. “This workshop will help us envision many different opportunities to better connect or create safer pathways from the College to the City of Batavia, potentially with the new Ellicott Trail.”

Batavia’s all-stars, from left, J.D. Orr, Milton Smith II, Nic Ready, Josh Simpson, Troy Johnston, Brock Love and Julio Frias. Batavia’s team won, 7-3.

Press Release:

First-place Muckdogs open six-game home stand tonight after all-star game

BATAVIA – Thanks to a rain delay, seven members of the Batavia Muckdogs may be a little tired tonight as the Muckdogs host State College in a six-game series that could decide the playoffs.

The players were in the New York-Penn League All-Star game Wednesday night and tonight Batavia plays at Dwyer Stadium at 7:05 p.m.

Batavia (35-29) and West Virginia (34-28) are tied at the top of the New York-Penn League Pinckney Division with tonight’s opponent, West Virginia, in third two games back at 33-31.

The games Thursday, Friday and Saturday are at 7:05 p.m. On Sunday at 5:05 p.m. starts the series with Williamsport. The two teams play at 7:05 p.m. on Monday and 11:05 a.m. on Tuesday.

There are ticket and food and drink specials along with other promotions each game. There is an updated promotion schedule at the top of the Batavia Muckdogs Facebook page.

J.D. Orr and Troy Johnston share a laugh in the dugout as Milton Smith II looks at the rain clouds coming in before the all-star game. There was a thunderstorm and delay but the game was played and the Batavia all-stars won, 7-3.

Wednesday night at the NYPL All-Star Game in Staten Island, Batavia’s J.D. Orr and Milton Smith II put the game away early with their hitting, defense and speed.

Orr started the game with a sharp single, then went to second when a pitch just got past a catcher. He scored on a basest for a 1-0 lead for the Blue team.

Milton Smith II doubled in the second then with two outs had a head-first slide to score on a single. He also made a catch by the wall in left field to preserve the shutout.

Julio Frias threw a scoreless inning, Josh Simpson was perfect with a strikeout in his outing, earning a hold, as did Brock Love as the Blue team won, 7-3.

Batavia all-star Troy Johnston is joined by his father, David and fiancee Haleigh at the game in Staten Island Wednesday.

Nic Ready and Troy Johnston also played in the game and Ready hit two home runs in the first round of the home run derby pre-game tying him for first place. The rain stopped the derby and delayed the start of the Hall of Fame ceremony.

During the Hall of Fame Ceremony, the late Gene Baker, a former Batavia manager went in the hall. New York-Penn League President Ben Hayes talked about Baker and a video tribute was played in his honor.

Former Oneonta and New York Yankee Bernie Williams also went in the Hall with Staten Island’s Jane Rogers and the late Josiah Viera.

Tickets are available at muckdogs.com or stop by the Dwyer Stadium Ticket office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. The number is 585-483-3647.

The Muckdogs are on Facebook, twitter and Instagram and now have a BataviaMuckdogs snapchat account. Follow the team on social media for game updates and videos and photos during the games of fans and players.

GCC professors Derek Maxfield and Tracy Ford, courtesy of GCC

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY (08/21/2019) The History Club at Genesee Community College has released an exciting line-up for the Fall 2019 Historical Horizons Lecture Series. This series is designed to educate, entertain and help stimulate the sharing of knowledge, discussion and learning all centered around the importance of history. As it has for years, GCC’s History Club invites the public to attend these events completely free!

The season kicks off on Wednesday, September 4, 2019 at 7 p.m. as Dr. Chris Mackowski, professor of Journalism and Communications at St. Bonaventure University, discusses his book, “Grant’s Last Battle: The Story Behind the Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant.” Facing financial ruin and struggling against terminal throat cancer, Ulysses S. Grant fought his last battle to preserve the meaning of the American Civil War. His war of words, “The Personal Memoirs of Ulysses S. Grant” would cement his place as not only one of America’s greatest heroes, but also as one of its most sublime literary voices. All are invited to attend in room T102 of the Conable Technology Building on GCC’s Batavia Campus.

On Saturday, September 7, 2019 at 1 p.m. grab a lawn chair or take a seat in the grass behind GCC’s Medina Campus Center located at 11470 Maple Ridge Road in Medina to watch General Ulysses S. Grant, played by GCC professor Derek Maxfield, and General William T. Sherman, played by GCC professor Tracy Ford, perform “Now We Stand by Each Other Always” live! The three-act play is based on a series of conversations between the famous Union generals during the Civil War. The friendship that developed between Ulysses S. Grant and William Tecumseh Sherman is a touching story on a personal level, but it also was a recipe for the success of Union military. Beginning at Vicksburg in 1863, the play has a nice arch that allows audiences to see the evolution of the partnership between the generals.

Did you get to see HAMILTON the musical? Then you won’t want to miss this event – Wednesday, October 2, 2019 at 7 p.m. in room T102 of the Conable Technology Building on GCC’s Batavia Campus, Danny Hamner, adjunct instructor of history at GCC, presents “A Historian Reflects on HAMILTON the Musical.” In this talk, Hamner explores what the musical HAMILTON gets right and wrong about love, marriage, power and ambition in the early American republic, and what theatre can express that traditional historical narratives struggle to capture.

Then, Wednesday, November 6, 2019 at 7 p.m. Dr. Terrianne Schulte, of D’Youville College will present “We Have to Create a National Debate, Community by Community…” which celebrates women trailblazers in environmental reform. Throughout the twentieth century, women have played important leadership roles in environmental preservation and restoration, often by educating the public regarding complex environmental issues to encourage grassroots activism. These unsung heroes deserve our attention and respect.

Closing the Fall 2019 season, the History club is proud to present its own adjunct instructor of history, Dr. Melinda Grube on Wednesday, December 4, 2019 at 7 p.m. who will portray Abigail Adams – LIVE! One of the Founding Mothers of America, Abigail Adams is one of the most remarkable people of the founding generation. Left to care for her children, the farm and the family business interests when her husband, John Adams was off chasing political fame, Abigail carried on to the best of her ability. She accepted the long absences from her husband as a necessary sacrifice for the good of the country. Come hear her story live, as presented in period costume and tone by Dr. Grube.

All Wednesday lectures in this series begin at 7 p.m. in room T102 of the Conable Technology Building. Other series events are scheduled as noted above.

All events in the Historical Horizons Series are free and open to the public.

For more information, visit https://gcchistoricalhorizons.wordpress.com/ or contact Marketing Communications Associate Director Donna Rae Sutherland at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6616, or via email: dsutherland@genesee.edu.

(Photo courtesy of Paul White)

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — With the prohibitive favorite coming up short, Little Joke took it upon herself to win the $12,500 fillies and mares Open I Handicap pace at Batavia Downs on Wednesday afternoon (Aug. 21) and blow up the tote board at 21-1.

Lady London (Shawn McDonough) went right to the front while the rest of the field opted to stay in post position order behind her, except for HP Sissy (Ray Fisher Jr.) who broke behind the gate. Lady London went to the quarter in :28 and an even slower half of :57 and still no opposition from anyone in the race.

As they moved into the third turn, 3-5 favorite Sidewalk Dancer (Hunter Oakes) pulled from fifth and tried to advance in the breeze. But progression was negligible as she hung a parked third to the three-quarters in 1:24.4, still 2-3/4 lengths behind the leader. At this point Billy Davis Jr., who had been enjoying a perfect trip in the two-hole with Little Joke, tugged the right line and asked the mare to drive on. And respond she did; pacing past Lady London at the top of the lane and then under an animated drive by Davis, held off a fast closing Miss Mary Mach (Dave McNeight III) in deep stretch to win in 1:53.1.

The time was a new seasonal mark for Little Joke and was only 1/5th of a second off the track record for aged pacing mares.

It was the sixth win of the year for Little Joke ($44.20) who has now earned $50,928 for owners Vogel and Wags Nags Stable and Jack Rice. Maria Rice trains the winner.

Davis and Rice had so much fun in the feature, they teamed up again for an instant replay in the $11,000 Open II Handicap with Hey Sweetie ($7.00), who like her stablemate earlier, tripped out behind the front-running Mach’s Echo (Drew Monti) until the top of the stretch where she pulled, took the lead and won in 1:55.1.

Hey Sweetie is owned by Vogel and Wags Nags Stable, Jack Rice and Adelphi Bloodstock.

Billy Davis Jr. went on to win two more races, giving him the Grand Slam on the evening.

Long prices seemed to be the theme of the day and in the third race, Missevil (John Cummings Jr.) was happy to oblige. She scored from post eight at 25-1 paying $52.50, beating 19-1 Keystone Zeta (James McNeight Jr.) who finished second. These top two finishers sparked an 8-3 exacta that returned $1,504, an 8-3-2 trifecta that paid $3,524 and an 8-3-2-ALL superfecta that produced an instant jackpot payout of $11,316.

There was a $10,000 guaranteed Pick-5 pool at The Downs on Wednesday that was not hit and as a result another guarantee has been made. When live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Friday (Aug. 23), the Pick-5 will have a guaranteed pool of $35,000 as part of the United States Trotting Association’s (USTA) Strategic Wagering Program and free program pages will be available on the USTA website as a result. This is the highest guaranteed pool ever offered in the history of Batavia Downs.

TeeSean Ayala, 20, of Batavia appeared for sentencing in Genesee County Court yesterday morning after accepting a plea deal on a weapons charge back in May.
Ayala was arrested last November for ditching a handgun in the County Manager’s Driveway and after making a tearful apology to Judge Charles Zambito he was sentenced to 5 years in prison to be followed by 5 years post release supervision.
According to District Attorney Lawrence Friedman Ayala avoided a possible 15 year sentence even with the benefit of a plea deal…

There were as many as seven other burglary charges pending against Ayala that will be satisfied with the sentence.
Ayala will also be required to pay nearly $10,000 in restitution.

Batavia man arrested for possessing razor blade behind bars.
Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested and charged 50 year old Andrew Said of West Main Street on a count of Promoting Prison Contraband in the first degree.
Said was allegedly found in possession of a razor blade while confined in the Genesee County Jail and was arraigned in City Court on the count.

Hutchins Street man jailed for slashing tires in the City.
37 year old Jason Freeman of Batavia was picked up on a count of Criminal Mischief after he allegedly punctured two tires on a vehicle on Osterhout Ave in the City.
Freeman was jailed in in lieu of $2,500 bail and is expected back in Batavia City Court this morning.

Two busted for Trespassing in Darien.
23 year old Ryan Barnhardt of Warsaw and 19 year old Austin Nowakowski of Darien were both taken into custody on counts of Trespassing after an incident last night on Bonnie Brea Drive in Darien.
Both Barnhardt and Nowakowski were accused of trespassing while riding dirt bikes and remaining unlawfully on private property.
Both were released with appearance tickets for Darien Town Court on September 3rd.

Livingston County deputies arrest a Buffalo woman following a police pursuit that ends with a convenience store crash.
Deputies say the chase started yesterday on Main Street and ended when 23 year old Christina Ford crashed her vehicle in the parking lot of a Leicester 7-11.
She was taken to the hospital to be treated for non-life threatening injuries.
Ford is facing several charges.

LeRoy Police are requesting the public’s assistance on a hit and run case.
Police are investigating a property damage auto accident that occurred on Lake Street in LeRoy sometime between 10:30 Tuesday night and 9 yesterday morning.
The suspect vehicle appears to be a 2015-2018 white or egg shell color Mitsubishi Lancer according to evidence left at the scene.
The vehicle possibly has passenger side damage with the passenger mirror torn off and there may also be black paint transfer on the passenger side of the suspect vehicle.
If you have any information as to the suspect vehicle, you are encouraged to please contact the LeRoy Police Department.

Starting at 8 a.m. today water will be turned off on Walnut Street from number 101 to the City Line along with all of Law Street for a water repair.
The work may result in a period of discolored water in this general area after service is restored.
Residents are encouraged to run water until it is clear before resuming activities such as laundry.

20 year old TeeSean Ayala of Batavia appeared for sentencing in Genesee County Court this morning after accepting a plea deal on a weapons charge back in May.

Ayala was arrested last November after ditching a handgun in the County Manager’s Driveway and since that time he has reportedly cooperated with authorities to provide information on investigations into a number of other burglaries.

Judge Charles Zambito provided lenience to Ayala before his sentencing which was rescheduled so he could remain with his family at home for the birth of his first child.
After Ayala made a tearful apology and plea to the judge he was sentenced to 5 years in prison to be followed by 5 years post release supervision.

District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, who respected Zambito’s decision, spoke about the plea and the pending counts it satisfied…

There were as many as 7 burglary charges pending against Ayala stretching back to 2015 that will be satisfied as long as there is no appeal to his sentence or conviction.

Ayala will also be required to pay nearly $10,000 in restitution.

Press Release:

City of Batavia Fire Department Beginning Hydrant Flushing

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants on August 22nd from approximately 9 AM to 3 PM the general area of E. Main St., State Street, Oak St., Washington Avenue and Richmond Avenue. Homes and businesses nearby will be affected. These tests may result in temporary discoloration of water in that area.

As in the past, please do not attempt to wash any clothing if your water appears discolored. If you do experience a discoloration of your water, run cold water for about five minutes or until clear.

This annual testing is essential to maintain the communities class III Insurance Service Office (ISO) public protection classification, and to assure that hydrants are operating efficiently for fire protection purposes. Along with maintaining the fire rating the test monitors the health of the city’s water system, identifies weak areas in the system, removes material that settle in the hydrant and cleans out the lines. Checking each
hydrant improves crew knowledge of hydrant locations.

If you have any questions, or should at anytime notice a hydrant in need of repair, please contact the fire department at 585-345-6375.

Press Release:

(Batavia, NY) – Don’t miss out! Spots for the GLOW’s 2019 Household Hazardous/Pharmaceutical Waste Collection Event are going fast. Residents who want to dispose of materials at the Saturday, September 14 collection in Batavia must have an appointment in order to attend. GLOW accepts a wide range of household chemicals, oil base paint, propane tanks and canisters, vehicle batteries and other materials. For the ninth year, thanks to the assistance of the Genesee County Sheriff’s office, pharmaceuticals (unwanted, outdated, unusable and over-the-counter medicines) will be accepted. These materials are accepted FREE OF CHARGE. There is a $5.00 charge for tires. Funding is provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), GLOW’s County contributions and Covanta Energy.

Instead of accepting electronics at the Household Hazardous Waste Collection, as GLOW did for many years, for the second year in a row GLOW will hold a separate Electronics Collection one week later on September 21, also in Batavia, also by appointment. It will run from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Due to the cost of disposal there will be a limit of 4 CRT (tube type) TVs and/or monitors. As long as it is from a household there is no limit on other electronic equipment. Contact the GLOW office for a complete list of acceptable items.

This is a great opportunity for residents to dispose of household chemicals and medicines they no longer want or need. Past collections have resulted in the safe and legal disposal of thousands of tires, thousands of gallons of solvents, cleaning products and paint, not to mention vehicle batteries, propane tanks and computers. Whenever possible materials collected are recycled.

The collections are open to residents in Genesee, Livingston and Wyoming Counties. To make an appointment residents are asked to call the GLOW office at 585/815-7906 or 800/836-1154. Or email glow@co.genesee.ny.us

A former Rochester parolee has been handed an indictment for murdering a man trying to a stop him from assaulting a woman in Batavia.
Quinton Edmond was indicted yesterday by a Genesee County Grand Jury on a count of second-degree murder for the June first death of Good Samaritan 43 year old Michael Paladino.
Quinton is facing the Class A-1 felony for fatally stabbing Paladino outside of his apartment on Ross Street after he had come to the aid of a woman being beaten by Edmond.
According to the indictment Edmonds is accused of intentionally causing Paladino’s death.

A former business owner in Warsaw has been charged with manslaughter for accidentally causing the death of an employee.
84 year old Ken Murtha has been charged by the Livingston County Sheriff’s with second-degree manslaughter for his alleged recklessness in an incident in May that claimed the life of 21 year old Cecil Beardslee-West.
Murtha owned Ken’s Tree Service for more than 50 years and has recently retired according to family members.
He was arraigned in Livingston County Jail on Tuesday where his attorney entered a plea of not guilty on his behalf.
Beardslee-West was shocked to death while moving logs for Murtha’s tree Service Company in May of this year.
Investigators say that he died as he was holding onto a metal chain attached to a crane that made contact with an overhead power line.

Troopers report the arrest of a woman accused of hitting two girls and killing a dog last week in Wyoming County.
Yesterday 27 year old Lauren Hall of Strykersville, turned herself in and was arrested for the crash that occurred last Thursday night on Dutch Hollow Road near State Route 78 in Sheldon.
Hall allegedly swerved off the road hitting two young girls who were walking a dog on the grass next to the roadway.
The 12 year old sustained serious, non-life-threatening injuries, the 14 year old suffered minor injuries and the dog was killed in the crash.
Hall has been charged with a felony count of leaving the scene of a serious physical injury accident, endangering the welfare of a child, criminal mischief along with other charges.
She was arraigned in Sheldon Town Court and released with her next court date scheduled for September 13.

Governor Cuomo says the decision to change the state’s license plate is rooted in cashless tolling.
People can vote on what the next plate’s design will be, with four choices including the Statue of Liberty, and one featuring the Mario M. Cuomo Bridge over the Hudson River.
Governor Cuomo denied that switching plates is a cash grab, insisting that the state will face a tolling-deficit if they can’t bill license plates with the new technology.
Voting on the next plate’s design runs through September 2nd, and the new plates will debut in April.

According to the Assistant County Engineer the Caswell Road Bridge between Walkers Corners Rd and Cockram Rd will be closed effective tomorrow through October 4th.

A Williamsville man is dead after his motorcycle runs off of Sliker Road in Pembroke.
The crash happened just after 7 last night.
60 year old Michael Block, from the Erie County Village of Williamsville, was heading west on his 19-year old Yamaha Motorcycle.
Deputies said Block apparently failed to negotiate a curve, ran off the road and struck several trees.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Michael Beach

A Livingston County man is facing felony charges for allegedly setting fire to his girlfriend’s she-shed.
61 year old Michael Beach of Leicester lived with his girlfriend on New Road. Deputies say Beach got upset with her last night and allegedly damaged his girlfriend’s vehicle, used his own truck to damage her house and threw cigarettes butts into her she-shed nearly destroying it.
Beach is charged with arson and criminal mischief.

The Caswell Road Bridge between Walkers Corners Rd and Cockram Rd will be closed effective August 22nd through October 4th, the Genesee County Highway Dept reported Tuesday.
The office also reported on Tuesday that the Sumner Rd Bridge over Elevenmile Creek will be restricted to alternating one-way traffic with a temporary signal effective today. This bridge is between Route 77 and Harlow Road.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo is asking for New Yorkers to choose the next state license plate.
A petition has been launched on the governor’s website where people can vote for one of five plate designs.
Four of the designs include the Statue of Liberty while another features the Mario M. Cuomo Bridge over the Hudson River.
Voting runs through Sept. 2nd, and the design with the most votes will become available in April.

Activists are calling on Juul [[ jewel ]] to halt the sale of flavored e-cigarettes, arguing it encourages young people and children to vape. Outside Juul’s headquarters in New York City, Councilman Mark Levine led a rally, saying something needs to be done about the issue to keep kids safe.
The Centers for Disease Control investigating 94-cases of children and adults who suffered lung disease, possibly linked to vaping.

Michael Beach

News Release

LEICESTER: Sheriff Thomas J. Dougherty reports the arrest of a Leicester NY man on felony charges after an investigation by the Sheriff’s Office.
On August 19, 2019 at approximately 12:30 am, Sheriff’s Deputies responded to an address on New Road in the Town of Leicester for a reported shed fire. Leicester and Cuylerville Fire Departments also responded to the scene and extinguished the fire but not before major damage to the shed and contents occurred.

The ensuing investigation by Sheriff’s Deputies revealed that the incident started when 61 year old Michael A. Beach, who resides at the residence, became upset with his girlfriend who also lives at the residence. It is further alleged that Beach damaged his girlfriend’s vehicle and then used his truck to ram the steps of the residence. Beach then threw several cigarette butts into the shed which caused the fire.

Beach was arrested and charged with felony Arson in the 4th Degree and felony Criminal Mischief in the 2nd Degree.
Beach was later arraigned at the Livingston County Centralized Arraignment Part (LC-CAP) at the Livingston County Jail before Village of Dansville Justice Scott Kenney. The Judge did remand Beach to the custody of the Sheriff on $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 bond.

Investigating the incident for the Sheriff’s Office were Sheriff’s Investigator Gene Chichester, Deputy William Clarke, and Deputy Caleb Cutting from the Forensic Identification Unit (FIU).

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — When live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Wednesday afternoon (Aug. 21) at 5:00 p.m., the track will feature a $10,000 guaranteed pool on the early Pick-5 wager that runs from race one to race five. It is part of the United States Trotting Association’s (USTA) Strategic Wagering program and as such, free program pages are available for those races on the USTA website (http://handicapping.ustrotting.com/) or by clicking here for a direct download. (bit.ly/Bat82119)

The first race of the night, and of the Pick-5, is the $12,500 fillies and mare Open I Handicap pace and this week it’s loaded with talent.

Paul Zabielski’s Spreester (Drew Monti) is two for two at Batavia since shipping in from Saratoga Raceway, winning the Open II and Open I in successive outings. In her win last week, Spreester drew off by 11-3/4 lengths in the stretch and made a shambles of the competition in a season’s best 1:53.2 effort.

However this week Chris Oakes’ Sidewalk Dancer (Hunter Oakes) ships in from The Downs at Mohegan Sun Pocono fresh off of her top performance of the year; a 1:51, 3-1/4 length win in an upper-level conditioned event over the storied 5/8th’s oval in Wilkes-Barre.

The 8-year-old Spreester has 51 lifetime wins whereas the 4-year-old Sidewalk Dancer is seasoned for her age, having faced the toughest 3-year-old fillies on the Grand Circuit all last year. These two will square-off in a heavyweight battle making the first leg of the $10,000 guaranteed Pick-5 a wide open affair.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) will tour several farms across the counties of Genesee, Orleans & Monroe in the towns of Elba, Churchville, Kendall and Kent this Thursday, August 22nd.

Hawley is the former owner and operator of his family’s farm in Batavia, a past President of the Genesee County Farm Bureau and a long-standing member of the Assembly Agriculture Committee.

Hawley voted against the ‘Farm Labor Bill’, authored by New York City politicians, which passed the Assembly during a slew of faintly vetted legislation at the end of this year’s session.

“Family farms are sadly becoming an endangered species in New York State with increased minimum wage requirements and the misguided ‘Farm Labor Bill’ which allows unionization and restricts an owner’s use of labor,” Hawley said. “I’m looking forward to this tour because our farmers have been shortchanged by Albany and they deserve to have their voice heard over lawmakers who have never even set foot on a farm.”

**Media invited and encouraged to attend**

Farm Tour Schedule: Thursday, Aug. 22

9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
CY Farms
5327 Watson Road
Elba

11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Zuber Farms LLC
3846 Westside Drive
Churchville

1 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
Kludt Bros Farm
1161 W. Kendall Road
Kendall

3 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Lynn-ette & Sons Inc.
1512 Kent Road
Kent

Press Release:

Sheriff Thomas J. Dougherty reports the arrest of a Monroe County resident on several felony charges including Leandra’s Law after a traffic stop involving a three year old.

On August 18, 2019 Deputy Connor Sanford was assigned to the Sheriff’s Office STOP DWI Unit when he stopped a vehicle on Clara Barton Street in the Village of Dansville for a violation of the NYS Vehicle and Traffic Law.

The operator of the vehicle was identified as Dylan T. Holmes, age 26 from Fairport NY. The Deputy Sheriff suspected that Holmes was under the influence of alcohol and conducted a roadside DWI investigation which included the performance of standardized field sobriety tests. At the conclusion of the roadside investigation, Holmes was taken into custody for DWI.

Holmes was also found to be in possession of marijuana and he was also operating the vehicle with his three (3) year old child in the car. A records check revealed that Holmes’ driver’s license had been suspended or revoked a total of three (3) times, one being for a DWI related conviction on October 2, 2018. Holmes was restricted to an interlock device as well but the vehicle was not equipped with one.

Holmes was transported to the Sheriff’s Office Headquarters in Geneseo where Deputy William Schwan of the Sheriff’s Office Jail Division administered a breathalyzer test. The breathalyzer tests revealed that Holmes had a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .09%.

Holmes was arrested and charged with felony Driving While Intoxicated (due to the previous conviction within the last ten years), felony Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated with a Child (Leandra’s Law), felony Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the 1st Degree, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child.

Holmes was turned over to Central Booking Deputies at the Livingston County Jail for processing and pre-arraignment detention. The District Attorney’s Office was contacted in regards to bail due to the felony level charges. It was recommended that Holmes be held on $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 bond.

Holmes was later arraigned at the Livingston County Centralized Arraignment Part (LC-CAP) at the Livingston County Jail before Town of Lima Justice Harris. The Judge did remand Holmes to the custody of the Sheriff on the recommended bail of $2,500 cash or $5,000 bond.

The child was turned over to a responsible family member and the incident was referred to Child Protective Services (CPS).

Deputy Devin Ricks and Deputy Michael Donals assisted with the investigation.

Press Release:

BATAVIA – Late Blight was detected in Genesee County on August 16. Late blight is a serious, airborne disease of tomatoes and potatoes best known for causing the Irish potato famine. Late blight is caused by a fungus-like organism that spreads dozens of miles on storm fronts.

Late blight can kill plants in less than two weeks. Disease spots are often dark gray to brown in color and tend to be surrounded by pale green tissue. Initially, spot shape and size varies but eventually most of an infected leaf or stem will become discolored and die. Leaf spots often look slightly fuzzy on the underside of the leaf in the early morning or when the weather is wet and humid conditions. Late blight will put dark brown to black smears on plant stems. Tomato fruit may also develop large, firm, greasy-looking, brown, gray, or black smears on the upper part of the fruit. Potato leaves show dark spots with fuzzy white spores on the underside during humid weather. Potato stems show similar lesions to those seen in tomato.

Late blight does not resemble lower leaves that yellow and contain numerous small black specks. Late Blight does not leaves to have spots that contain small, black, concentric rings.

Since this disease is aggressive, spreads easily, and can be very damaging to area farmers, Cornell Cooperative Extension asks that anyone suspecting they have late blight please contact their local CCE office for assistance with identification. In Genesee County, home gardeners may contact the Master Gardener Helpline at 585-343-3040 x 127. Samples may be dropped off at the office, 420 East Main Street, Batavia, from 9 am to 3:30 pm. Please put them in a clear, plastic bag. Commercial vegetable farmers may contact the Cornell Vegetable Program – cvp.cce.cornell.edu/specialists.php.

“Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County provides equal program and employment opportunities.”

Genesee women’s soccer (Left) and Genesee men’s soccer (R) both in top 10 of NJCAA Division III Soccer Preseason Poll

Press Release:

Genesee Soccer Teams Both in Top 10 of NJCAA Preseason Polls

BATAVIA, NY… On Monday, the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) released its 2019 Pre-Season polls for men’s and women’s soccer and the programs at Genesee Community College are inside the top 10 in both polls.

The Genesee women’s soccer team placed seventh in the preseason poll. Conference for Erie came in sixth and regional opponent Herkimer came in at number eight. Defending national champion Richland College (TX) is the pre-season number one.

Genesee will kick off the season with home games against Clinton Community College on Saturday, August 24 and against North County Community College on Sunday, August 25. Returning for his seventh season, Jeff Reyngoudt along with assistants Macy Reyngoudt and Kelly Starchok are looking for redemption in the NJCAA Women’s Soccer National Championships as well as repeating as NJCAA Region III Champions.

The Genesee men’s soccer team is second in the NJCAA Division III Men’s Soccer preseason polls. Reigning National Champion Richland College is the preseason number one. The season opener for the men’s soccer program will be on Saturday, August 24 against Clinton Community College and will host North Country Community College on Sunday, August 25.

Head Coach Ken Gavin returns behind the bench for his 12th season. The Cougars men’s soccer team is looking for another trip to the NJCAA Men’s Soccer Tournament in hopes of the program’s second National Championship in three seasons. Genesee is the four-time and reigning NJCAA Region III Champions.

The complete schedule is available online at www.geneseeathletics.com For more information, log online to www.geneseeathletics.com; follow us on social media by using #cougarPRIDE and check out our new Athletics video.

The Batavia Muckdogs are in first place at the all-star break with just 12 games left and one game separates seven teams from the playoff spots. The Muckdogs are home at Dwyer Stadium in Batavia starting Thursday for six straight games that could decide the division.

Press Release:

Batavia Muckdogs head into all-star break and home stretch in first place

NILES, Ohio – The Batavia Muckdogs used a balk and a 3-run home run to hold off Mahoning Valley, 8-6 on Monday night.

Meanwhile in West Virginia, the host Black Bears fell to Williamsport, 8-7 in extra innings. As a result, Batavia (35-29) and West Virginia (34-28) are tied at the top of the New York-Penn League Pinckney Division heading into the all-star break.

The break won’t be relaxing for the Muckdogs as they have an NYPL high seven players and three starters in the game on Wednesday at Staten Island.

On Monday night, Batavia trailed 2-0 to Mahoning Valley, a team that won four straight and was not allowing Batavia on the scoreboard.
Batavia shortstop Dalvy Rosario hit one of the biggest home runs of the season in the top of the third, a 3-run home run to give Batavia the lead.

With the scored tied, 4-4 in the top of the seventh, J.D. Orr coaxed a balk, his eighth of the season as a runner causing a balk, allowing Albert Guaimaro to score the go-ahead run. While Mahoning Valley would stick around, Joey Steele and Evan Brabrand shut the door for the win and the save respectively.

Steele improved to 2-0 on his solid season, as he threw 2.1 innings of shut out ball, striking out four and giving up just two hits.
Steele, an all-star selection and 30th round draft pick of the Miami Marlins out of University of San Francisco, lowered his ERA to 1.59. He has thrown 17 innings and walked just three wile striking out 28.

Meanwhile, Brabrand, who has made a final-score impact in the stats in every game he has pitched in but one (that was a perfect inning), had a new roll on Monday.
Batavia manager Tom Lawless, looking to stop Mahoning Valley’s win streak and Batavia’s losing streak, brought Brabrand in with two outs in the eighth.
The 6-3 righty closer out of Liberty where he was a 9th round pick of the Marlins, hit the first batter in the ninth, but got a double play to end the game.
Brabrand now has 12 saves on the season and a 3-1 record in 17 games. He has struck out 21 in 17 innings, walked just one and given up just three runs for a 1.59 ERA and a 1.24 WHIP.

Josh Simpson picked up his sixth hold of the season striking out one while Andrew Miller had the start and struck out five over 4.1 innings.

Rosario, just 19 and a Marlins signing out of the Dominican Republic, is 10-for-23 (.435) in his last six games. In addition to his second home run of the season, he also crushed his 13th double of the season, scored twice, had the 3 RBI’s and a walk.

J.D. Orr, who will start in left in the all-star game, increased his NYPL leading average to .387 going 2-for-4 with a RbI and run.

Troy Johnston had a hit and a RBI while Nic Ready and Guaimaro each had a single, Sean Reynolds walked and scored, Harrison Dinicola had two hits and scored and Jack Strunc had a double and a run. Catcher Dustin Skelton also had a RBI singe and scored a run for Batavia.

The all-stars for the Muckdogs are Ready, Orr, Johnston, Milton Smith II, and pitchers Julio Frias, Brock Love and Josh Simpson.

The game is hosted by the Staten Island Yankees and starts at 7 p.m. Wednesday.

Just one game separates seven teams fighting for four spots in the NYPL playoffs.

The Muckdogs return home on Thursday for three straight crucial home games at 7:05 p.m. each night against State College, then three more home games against Williamsport.

Tickets are available at muckdogs.com or stop by the Dwyer Stadium Ticket office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. The number is 585-483-3647.

The Muckdogs are on Facebook, twitter and Instagram and now have a BataviaMuckdogs snapchat account. Follow the team on social media for game updates and videos and photos during the games of fans and players.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office reports the death of a Williamsville man in a single vehicle motorcycle accident on Sliker Road, Pembroke.
Deputies were called for report of a male lying in a field unconscious just minutes after 7 p.m. last night.
60 year old Michael Block of Williamsville was found by first responders not breathing and without a pulse and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Block had apparently failed to negotiate a left hand curve while heading west on Sliker road and then lost control of his 2000 Yamaha Motorcycle striking several trees and coming to rest in a field.
The accident remains under investigation.

Serrano sentenced to maximum.
49 year old Jennifer Serrano of Irving in Chautauqua County appeared in Genesee County Court yesterday where she was sentenced to 4 to 14 years in state prison on counts of vehicular manslaughter and leaving the scene of a fatal accident.
Serrano was sentenced to serve two consecutive terms of 2 to 7 years on her conviction connected to last summer’s hit and run death of 18 year old Connor Lynskey of Hickley in Oneida County.
District Attorney Lawrence Friedman said the only appropriate sentence was the maximum…

Serrano was found guilty of hitting Hickley who was camping with friends as he was walking back to his campsite from a Darien Lake concert.

Motorcycle crash in Byron ends in a DWI arrest for a Bergen man.
Following investigation into an early Sunday morning single motor vehicle accident on Byron Holley Road in Byron Deputies took 35 year old Jason Skivington of Buffalo Street Bergen into custody for DWI, moving from a lane unsafely and failing to stop at a stop sign.
He was released with an appearance ticket for Byron Town Court.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo is asking New Yorkers to help pick the next state license plate.
A petition has been launched on the governor’s website where people can vote for one of five plate designs.
Four of the designs include the Statue of Liberty while another features the Mario M. Cuomo Bridge over the Hudson River.
Voting runs through Sept. 2nd, and the design with the most votes will become available in April.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is continuing to push for tougher gun laws following recent mass shootings in Ohio and Texas.
Yesterday, he and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the best course of action would be to expand background checks.
Over the weekend, President Trump blamed mental health as a reason for the increase in violence.
Schumer says he believes the president isn’t serious about gun reform and is only trying to delay debate until pressure to act fades with lawmakers.

The City’s Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants today and tomorrow from approximately 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the area south of East Main Street and east of Jackson Street.
Homes and businesses nearby may see a temporary discoloration of water.

A $23-million contract has been awarded for the first phase of construction on the Western New York National Veterans Cemetery in Pembroke.
This first 65-acre phase will result in 4,000 gravesites and could be ready for the first burial late next year.
The contract has been awarded to Global Union Enterprises of Ontario County. The cemetery will be located along Indian Falls Road.

There is a Republican hat in the ring for the 27th Congressional District seat now held by Chris Collins.
New York State Senator Robert Ortt announced over the weekend he wants the job and took immediate aim at any Democratic Party opponent:

Photo: NYS Senator Robert Ortt (R-Lockport)

Democrat Nate McMurray has announced he’s is taking a second run at the 27th district seat. Incumbent Collins says he hasn’t decided yet.

The start of the next legislative session in Albany is still months away, but Democrats are already looking at what gun control measures they may want to introduce.
The Buffalo News reports there are several options on the table including bans on some big caliber weapons and microstamping identification on ammunition.

Summer is starting to wind down, but Western New York drivers can still save on their final road trips.
According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas is $2.79. That’s down 2-cents in the last week and 7-cents in the last month.
Gas Buddy.com reports the average cash price in Batavia is $2.76.

The Batavia Muckdogs are on the road tonight.
They take on Mahoning Valley.
The Dogs return home against State College Thursday night following two days off.

Jennifer Serrano

Jennifer Serrano of Irving has been sentenced to a maximum of 14 years in prison today in connection with last summer’s hit and run death of an 18 year old Darien Lake concert goer.
Judge Charles Zambito sentenced the 48 year old Serrano to two consecutive terms of 2 to 7 years for vehicular manslaughter and leaving the scene of a fatal accident.

District Attorney Lawrence Friedman said today he never considered a plea bargain in the case:

District Attorney Lawrence Friedman

Serrano, from Irving, NY, had been convicted in a jury trial in July of hitting Connor Lynskey of Hickley in Oneida County.
He was camping with friends and was walking back to his campsite from a concert at Darien Lake when he was struck and killed.

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing / testing fire hydrants on Monday August 19th, Tuesday August 20th. And Wednesday August 21st from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the general area of south of East Main St. and east of Jackson St. Homes and businesses nearby will be affected. These tests may result in a temporary discoloration of water in that area. As in the past, please do not attempt to wash any clothing if your water appears discolored. If you do experience a discoloration of your water, run cold water for about 5 minutes or until clear.

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — Black Is Back took full advantage of post one in Saturday night’s (Aug.17) $12,500 Open Handicap pace at Batavia Downs, going gate to wire in impressive fashion.

Driver Dave McNeight III flew off the wings to claim the point with Black Is Back in the first turn and then kept his foot on the gas to the quarter in :27 flat. The race was basically over at that point as the pair would just continue to extend their lead from there.

After hitting the half in :56.2 on top by 1-½, Black Is Back paced away to a two length lead at three-quarters and four lengths by the top of the stretch. As he turned for home, McNeight sat statuesque as the wrapped-up Black Is Back continued to pull away and hit the beam on top by seven in 1:53.2.

It was the second win in four Batavia Downs starts and seventh win of the year for Black Is Back ($3.70) who now has banked $50,110 this year for owners Curtis Edholm and Mihajlo Zdjelar Sr.. Mihajlo Zdjelar Jr. trains the winner.

The $11,000 Open II Handicap also went to a coast to coast winner; Tullow N.

John Cummings Jr. rousted Tullow N off the gate and to the front and never let anyone get close to them the whole mile. After clicking off fractions of :27.4, :56.4 and 1:24.4 with a loose lead to boot, the field was scattered behind Tullow N except for Manceiver (Drew Monti) who sat the pocket the entire way and was close enough to be considered a contender. But Tullow N didn’t see it that way as he turned for home and pulled away to a 2-¾ length win in 1:53.1.

With $55,135 in earnings on the strength of four wins in 2019, Tullow N ($8.10) is also two for four since coming to Batavia Downs. Blindswitch Racing owns the 8-year-old altered son of Mach Three-Tessa Bromac and Dave Russo does the training.

Shawn Gray was in from Saratoga to drive on Saturday and put on a clinic while he was here. Gray won half the card; five out of the 10 races including a natural Hat Trick in the final three races of the night. He had his picture taken with Best Ears (1:54, $9.20), Myell’s Rockstar (1:54.2, $6.30), Thisjetsabookin (1:54.2, $4.20), M G Home Run (1:56, $13.60) and P C Shockwave (1:56.4, $2.60). The five-bagger vaulted him from ninth to fourth in the local driver standings in one night.

Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Sunday afternoon (Aug. 18) at 1:15 p.m. Sunday will feature a $3,000 guaranteed pool on the early Pick-5 wager that runs from race one to race five. It is part of the United States Trotting Association’s (USTA) Strategic Wagering program and as such, free program pages are available for those races on the USTA website or by clicking here for a direct download. ()

The list of candidates vying to take the 27th Congressional District seat is growing.
Senator Rob Ortt announced his run for the congressional seat Saturday, first in Lockport and then later in Batavia out in front of City Hall.
Ortt called Batavia the heart of the district and spoke of the shared values of many of its residents that are being threatened by the majority in Albany…

Ortt touted his military service repeating the slogan that he is a “battle-tested warrior” both in war and with his conservative credentials.
The Senator joins the race to unseat incumbent Congressman Chris Collins, who while under indictment for insider trading charges has yet to announce whether he will seek re-election.

Troopers in Warsaw have located the vehicle involved in a hit and run that killed a dog and injured two young girls.
State Police located the 2017 Chevrolet Trax over the weekend that was allegedly involved in the Town of Sheldon accident.
The incident occurred at around quarter after eight Thursday night as a 12 year old girl was walking her dog with her 14 year old friend on the grass along the side of Dutch Hollow Road when a car swerved and struck them.
The driver took off, leaving the two young teens and their dog on the ground only about 200 feet from their home.
Troopers are still determining who was operating that vehicle at the time of the crash.

Senator Chuck Schumer announced Saturday that the Department of Veteran Affairs has awarded an over $23 million contract to a company in Victor to begin construction on the very first Phase of the Western New York National Veterans Cemetery in Pembroke.
The nation’s newest veteran’s cemetery will be located at 1232 Indian Falls Road in the Town of Pembroke.
The cemetery site was originally 132 acres, then they purchased adjoining 60-acre and 77-acre parcels, closing on those early last year.
The first phase of construction encompasses 65 acres of the cemetery’s total 269 acres.

The start of the next legislative session is still months away, but Democrats are already looking at what gun control measures they may want to introduce.
The Buffalo News reports there are several options on the table including bans on some big caliber weapons and microstamping identification on ammunition.
Some gun control advocates think the state already has some of the toughest gun laws in the country and it’s up to the federal government to take the next steps.
Several gun control and safety measures were passed by the Legislature this year.

Summer is starting to wind down, but Western New York drivers can still save on their final road trips.
According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas is $2.76 in Genesee County.
That’s down six cents in the last week and seven cents in the last month.
The state average is $2.82 while nationally it’s $2.62.

Batavia has seven all-starts on the New York-Penn League All-Star team including outfielders Milton Smith II, left, and Troy Johnston.

Press Release:

Batavia Muckdogs land seven all-stars for New York-Penn League All-Star game

BATAVIA – The 2019 season for the first-place Batavia Muckdogs has been a special one at Dwyer Stadium. Now, add the all-star game to the memories.

The New York-Penn League has announced seven players will represent Batavia in the all-star game on Wednesday, Aug. 21 in Staten Island.
Nick Ready (third base), J.D. Orr (left field) and Troy Johnston (right field) were named starters. Milton Smith II (center field) and pitchers Julio Frias, Brock Love and Josh Simpson were also named to the team.

The all-star game is at 7 p.m. hosted by the Staten Island Yankees with gates opening at 3 p.m. There will be a home run competition between the New York City Fire Department and NYPD.

During the pre-game, the 2019 NYPL Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take lace with Batavia’s Gene Baker going in the hall with Bernie Williams, Jane Rogers and Josiah Viera.

Baker, who died in 1999, became the first African-American manager in organized baseball, when the Pittsburgh Pirates named him skipper of the Batavia club in 1961.

In 1963, he became the second black coach in the major leagues following Buck O’Neill by a half -season. He can also be credited with being the first black manager in Major League Baseball when he took over for ejected Pirates manager Danny Murtaugh on September 21, 1963. He was also the first African-American player to ever make the Chicago Cubs roster in 1953.

Here is a look at the Batavia all-stars:

Nic Ready
It has been a wild year for Nic Ready. The son of former Major Leaguer Randy Ready, Nic won the 2019 NCAA Home Run Derby in Omaha, Nebraska, then was drafted by the Miami Marlins in the 23rd round out of the Air Force Academy.
Ready, a 6-foot-3 righthander who plays third and first, has shown tremendous power this season with seven home runs and 34 RBI’s with 26 soubles and a triple. He is hitting .280 with a .525 slugging percentage.
Ready is currently active duty with the Air Force, but a new law will allow him to play professional baseball and fulfill his military commitments the next two years.
In the all-star game, Ready will start at third.

J.D. Orr
It is no surprise J.D. Orr will start in the outfield in the all-star game. The 5-foot-10 Orr was drafted this year in the 10th round of the draft by the Miami Marlins out of Wright State, where he led the nation in stolen bases.
In Batavia, he not only leads the team with 24 stolen bases, but he leads the entire New York-Penn League with a .373 average and has 59 hits. He has hit three doubles, two triples and scored 46 runs.

Troy Johnston
Another starter in the outfield for the Muckdogs will be Troy Johnston, a 17th round pick of the Marlins out of Gonzaga this year.
Johnston, a 5-foot-11 lefty is hitting .295 with 46 hits, 11 doubles, a triple and two home runs. He has driven in 26 runs and scored 23. At Gonzaga, he was leading the nation in doubles furing the 2019 season and led his team in average.

Milton Smith II
During the 2019 season, Milton Smith II spent time as the top hitter in the New York-Penn League, and is still hitting .319 with 52 hits, a triple and 17 stolen bases, as he was caught just four times. Smith II is also an outstanding centerfielder for the Muckdogs.
Smith, a 5-foot-10 lefty, was drafted in the 22nd round by the Marlins out of Meridian CC in Mississippi in 2018.

Brock Love
Love is a 6-foot-1 right hander who has made a big impact on the Muckdogs this season coming out of the bullpen. He has thrown 14.1 innings with 18 strikeouts and just four walks, giving up just four runs for a ERA of 2.51 and a WHIP of 0.77.
He was picked by the Miami Marlins as the fourth pick of the 2019 draft in the 34th round out of the University of Alabama.
In college, Love was injured in 2017 but in 2018 he was 2-0 with a 0.00 ERA, something he did in his first seven performances with Batavia. In 2019 he led Alabama in strikeouts with 66 in 60 innings while starting 13 games. Love showed right away as a freshman his command of the strike zone, walking just three batters his first year while strikeout 21 with a 2.81 ERA.

Josh Simpson
The 2019 season has been frustrating for batters opposing Josh Simpson as the 6-foot-2 lefty has a 0.55 ERA in 11 games and has struck out 21 batters in 16.1 innings with just two walks. He has given up just one run all season for the Muckdogs.
Simpson was a 32nd round draft pick out of Columbia University by the Miami Marlins this year. He was an all-Ivy League selection and struck out 56 batters. He threw a nine-inning complete game shut out against Cornell as a senior.

Julio Frias
Frias turned 21 as the season started, and the 6-foot-2 lefty out of Boca Chica, Dominican Republic has enjoyed a great season as a top starting pitcher. Frias has 11 starts and has gone 4-2 with a 2.54 ERA and 63 strikeouts in 56.2 innings with just 21 hits allowed.
In his short career, Frias has tossed 182 innings with 174 strikeouts. His last start was on Aug. 11, a win over Mahoning Valley. Frias signed in 2014 as an international free agent with the Marlins at age 16.

Julio Frias records one of his three strikeouts Friday night against West Virginia.

Press Release:

Muckdogs fall, 9-3 to West Virginia

BATAVIA – The Batavia Muckdogs lead in the New York-Penn Pickney Division is down to a half game after a 9-3 loss to West Virginia on Friday night.

Batavia is on the road for three games starting Saturday at Mahoning Valley then the all-star break before returning to Dwyer Stadium on August 22 to host State College.

Batavia’s Sean Reynolds blasted his 12th home run of the season on Friday and the 34th of his short minor league career in the fifth-inning in the loss.

J.D. Orr had two doubles and scored a run increasing his league-leading average to .379.

Harrison Dinicola hit his sixth double of the season while Dalvy Rosario had a RBI, and Andrew Turner singled in a run. Milton Smith II had the other Muckdog hit.

Julio Frias took the loss and is 4-3 on the season. He struck out three in four innings. Edison Suriel had six strikeouts in three innings of work giving up one run while Joey Steele struck out two in one inning and Evan Rebrand had two strikeouts without giving up a run in the ninth.

Batavia is 34-26 and West Virginia is 33-26.

Tickets are available at muckdogs.com or stop by the Dwyer Stadium Ticket office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. The number is 585-483-3647.

The Muckdogs are on Facebook, twitter and Instagram and now have a BataviaMuckdogs snapchat account. Follow the team on social media for game updates and videos and photos during the games of fans and players.

Press Release:

August 17, 2019 for the Bur. Of Water and Wastewater

Effective immediately the is a water shut down on Walnut Street from the City line to Law Street for a repair to a broken water main.

Service will be restored as soon as possible. Once service is restored, you may notice some discoloration.

Please delay doing laundry until the water clears up.

We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you in advance for your cooperation.

Wheels A Turning (Photo courtesy of Paul White)

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — After heavy late afternoon rains degraded the track to sloppy, a very game Wheels A Turning overcame the weather, a slow start and a breaking horse to score a decisive victory in the $12,500 Open Handicap trotting feature at Batavia Downs on Friday evening (Aug. 16).

Off the gate, Dragin The Wagon (Shawn McDonough) went for the lead and in doing so, got parked three-deep around the first turn before clearing at the quarter in :27.3. Once on top, McDonough backed off the half to :57 trying to save some for later. Going past the stands before they hit the third turn, Rose Run Speedster (Jim Morrill Jr.) and Wheels A Turning (Dave McNeight III) pulled and got an outer flow going to try and take advantage of the early speed.

As they trotted past the five-eighths, Keystone Apache (Billy Davis Jr.) pulled from second and immediately made a break in front of Rose Run Speedster. That cleared the way for Rose Run Speedster to draw alongside Dragin The Wagon and Wheels A Turning, who was on his back, to go three-deep at three-quarters in 1:26.3. Dragin The Wagon said goodnight at the top of the stretch leaving Rose Run Speedster and Wheels A Turning engaged in a match race to the wire. After trotting in unison for almost the last eighth of a mile, Wheels A Turning finally nudged ahead before the wire and won by a length in 1:56.4.

The eighth win of the season for Wheels A Turning ($5.60) was also a seasonal best effort and the winner’s share of the purse boosted his earnings to $61,810 for owners Burke Racing and Weaver Bruscemi. James Clouser Jr. trains the winner.

In the $11,000 Open II trot, Lucky Guess (Ray Fisher Jr.) was on a mission when the gate released the field, taking control from post one like a shot. After being unchallenged to the half in a tepid :59.2, Noble Legend (Billy Davis Jr.) pulled from third at the half with Southern Palms (Jim Morrill Jr.) behind him and they both started to push the issue.

Motoring up the backstretch, Lucky Guess and Noble Legend went stride for stride to the three-quarters when Noble Legend started to fade and Southern Palms tipped three-deep and advanced. When the race moved off the turn, Lucky Guess had opened up a two-length lead and down the lane, Fisher raised the lines over his head to let his horse trot home on her own and win in 1:58.2.

The time was a new lifetime mark for the 6-year-old daughter of Lucky Chucky-Athenea.

It was the second win in three Batavia Downs starts for Lucky Guess ($14.20) and her owner Dennis Beaver. Kirk Desmond trains Lucky Guess.

Ray Fisher Jr. was the hot driver for the night, scoring a Grand Slam on the card. Jim Morrill Jr. got the Hat Trick and Dave McNeight III and Billy Davis Jr. each had driving doubles.

In a true oddity of racing, there were two dead heats for win recorded at Batavia Downs on Friday with Jim Morrill Jr. and trainer JD Perrin involved in both of them.

Batavia Downs hosted a fundraiser for the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester (BCCR) on Friday night. Donations by many owners, trainers and drivers along with donations from fans attending live racing combined with proceeds from the silent auction to earn a total of over $13,500, which exceeds last year’s best-ever record. That money will go directly to the BCCR.

Batavia Downs would like to thank everyone who participated in this great fundraiser for such a worthy cause.

Racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Saturday (Aug. 17) with post time at 6 p.m. Saturday’s card features a chance for one lucky fan to win a $3,500 diamond bracelet courtesy of TAG Jewelers.

Troopers out of Warsaw responded to Dutch Hollow Road near State Route 78 in Sheldon for two teens struck by a vehicle.
The incident occurred around quarter after 8 Thursday night.
Further investigation revealed that the fourteen and twelve year old girls were walking their Australian Shepard on the grass next to the roadway when a dark colored vehicle swerved into the lawn striking both girls and killing the dog.
The twelve year old suffered serious, non-life threatening injuries and the fourteen year old had minor injuries.
The NYSP Forensic Identification Unit examined the parts from the scene and have updated their initial vehicle description.
The vehicle in question is believed to be a black or dark colored 2017 or newer Chevrolet Trax with passenger side mirror damage and possible head light damage.
If anyone has information regarding this investigation, you are encouraged to contact State Police at 344 – 6200.

Corfu man arrested for trying to buy a gun while facing an order of protection.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office reports the arrest of 29 year old Robert Barnes of Corfu on counts of Attempted Criminal Contempt and Falsifying Business Records after he allegedly tried to purchase a firearm in Corfu last Tuesday while there was an active order of protection against him.
The FBI was notified after he provided false information on the background form that was submitted to the ATF bureau.
He was ultimately issued an appearance ticket for Corfu Village Court.

Perry woman arrested for endangerment after allegedly fighting in front of kids.
52 year old Beth Lennon of Perry, is accused of striking a female in the stomach and throwing a cell phone at another woman’s leg while arguing in an apartment lobby in Perry Thursday.
The violence reportedly played out in front of a 4 year old, a 12 year old and a two week old baby.
Lennon is facing two counts of harassment and three counts of endangering the welfare of a child and was released on her own recognizance with orders of protection established for the victims.

The New York-Penn League has announced seven players will represent Batavia in the all-star game on Wednesday, Aug. 21 in Staten Island.
Congratulations to Nick Ready, J.D. Orr and Troy Johnston who were named as starters and to Milton Smith II, Julio Frias, Brock Love and Josh Simpson who were also named to the team.
The all-star game is at 7 p.m. hosted by the Staten Island Yankees.

According to Batavia’s Bureau of Water and Wastewater water is shut down on Walnut Street from the City line to Law Street for a repair to a broken water main effective Saturday Morning.
Service will be restored as soon as possible.

Press Release:

*UPDATE*
On August 15, 2019 at 8:15 P.M., Troopers out of SP Warsaw responded to Dutch Hollow Road near State Route 78 in the town of Sheldon for two teens struck by a vehicle. Further investigation reveals that the fourteen and twelve-year-old girls were walking their Australian Shepard on the grass next to the roadway and a dark colored vehicle swerved into the lawn striking both girls and killing the Australian Shepard. The twelve-year-old had serious, non-life threatening injuries and the fourteen-year-old had minor injuries.

**NYSP Forensic Identification Unit examined the parts from the scene. The vehicle in question is believed to be a black or dark colored 2017 or newer Chevrolet Trax. The vehicle has passenger side mirror damage and possible head light damage.

If anyone has information on this investigation, contact the NYSP at 585-344-6200. Refer to SJS 9095959.

Press Release:

GENESEO: Sheriff Thomas J. Dougherty reports a fatal crash on Geneseo- Mount Morris Road in the Town of Geneseo.
On August 14, 2019 at approximately 9:18 pm the Livingston County Emergency Communications Center (E-911) received a call for a single car motor vehicle crash on Geneseo- Mount Morris Road (State Route 63) in the Town of Geneseo near Fallbrook.

Sheriff’s Deputies and emergency personnel from the Geneseo Fire Department, Geneseo Ambulance, and Livingston County EMS were immediately dispatched to the scene.

The initial investigation by responding personnel found that the vehicle was travelling southbound on Geneseo – Mount Morris Road when it veered off the west side of the roadway. The vehicle then struck a ditch and went airborne, ultimately crashing through a fence and striking a tree before coming to rest.

The operator of the vehicle was identified as John R. Chasey, age 34 from Dansville NY. Chasey was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Livingston County Coroner’s Office.

Members of the Sheriff’s Office Command Staff, Patrol Division, Criminal Investigations Division, Forensic Identification Unit (FIU), and Drone Unit were on scene for the investigation.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office.

Press Release:

LIVONIA: Sheriff Thomas J. Dougherty reports the arrest of a Livonia NY resident on possession of child pornography charges after an investigation by the Sheriff’s Office.

On August 13, 2019 Sheriff’s Investigator Josh Monster arrested and charged 71 year old David F. Farr with Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child, a class E felony.

The arrest came after the Sheriff’s Office received information that Farr possibly had images of child pornography on his laptop computer. Investigators conducted a forensic examination on the laptop and allege that Farr had searched, viewed, and possessed images containing sexual conduct of children under the age of 16.

Farr was turned over to Central Booking Deputies at the Livingston County Jail for processing and pre-arraignment detention. The District Attorney’s Office was contacted in regards to bail due to the felony level charge. It was recommended that Farr be held on $2,000 cash bail or $4,000 bond.

Farr was later arraigned at the Livingston County Centralized Arraignment Part (LC-CAP) at the Livingston County Jail before Town of Lima Justice Harold Harris. The Judge did remand Farr to the custody of the Sheriff on $1,500 cash bail or $3,000 bond.

Assisting with the investigation were Sheriff’s Investigator Brad Schneider, the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force, and the Regional Computer Forensic Lab in Rochester.

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — Friday night (Aug. 16) at Batavia Downs is noteworthy for two reasons. One, it’s the first live card of harness racing held on a Friday this meet at the Downs as the track previously hosted their now completed concert series on Friday.

Second, it’s the night of the Batavia Down’s annual “Races to Benefit the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester” (www.bccr.org) fundraiser that will be held at the track to raise both awareness and dollars to fight this deadly disease.

This annual event is one of the larger fundraisers held by this organization and Batavia Downs has been proud to put on the event with them and be a part of this very worthy cause. It will be held in the clubhouse and runs from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.

“We have partnered with BCCR for several years now and each year this event gets bigger and better,” said Todd Haight, Director/General Manager of Live Racing. “It’s an opportunity for us to help raise money to defeat the scourge of breast cancer in our lifetime. The generosity of our horsemen and patrons always shines through and I’m sure we will see that again this Friday.”

There will be a silent auction held adjacent to the clubhouse with a list of prizes that will please anyone’s taste. They include two suite tickets to the Buffalo Bills versus Philadelphia Eagles at New Era Field on Sunday (Oct. 27), four suite tickets to the Buffalo Sabres versus the St. Louis Blues at Key Bank Center on Tuesday (Dec. 10), two suite tickets for the Carrie Underwood concert at Key Bank Arena on Sunday (Oct. 13), one Batavia Downs Hotel night and racing package, two Batavia Downs clubhouse racing packages, a recliner form Max Pies Furniture in Batavia and a host of other items too numerous to mention.

Dozens of local owners, trainers and drivers have already committed to donating some or all of their winnings realized on Friday night with more coming on board every day.

The track will also be taking cash donations from anyone willing to help that will be forwarded directly to the BCCR.
“Last year we were able to raise in excess of $13,000 and this year we aim to break that record. The clubhouse has been sold out for weeks so we’ll have many caring people here that night. And we will also have runners in both the paddock and grandstand area taking bids for the silent auction and also collecting any donations people may wish to make,” said Haight.

Post time for the first race is at 6 p.m.

Warsaw resident 33 year old Kory Doyle, who has been convicted of possession of child pornography, appeared in federal court where he was sentenced to 36 months in state prison on the charge.
Investigators looking into Doyle’s child porn possession back in September of 2017 conducted forensic analysis on multiple computers, hard drives, and cell phones owned by Doyle revealing images and videos of violent child pornography.
He is said to have downloaded the content from various websites.
According to prosecutors some of the material included violence, with children under 12 years old, and the sexual abuse of an infant.

Strangulation and Endangerment in Bergen leads to arrest for a Rochester man.
Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies took 24 year old Alan Price of Chili into custody on counts of Strangulation, Criminal Contempt and Endangering the Welfare of a Child following a reported incident from April of this year on Interstate 490 East in Bergen.
Price who was in violation of an active order pf protection at the time was accused of strangling the driver of a vehicle while they were still driving with a one year old child in the backseat.
He was subsequently released under supervision of Genesee Justice.

Child porn charges put a Darien man behind bars.
55 year old Aaron Pawlikowski of Sumner Road Darien was arrested by Troopers out of Batavia following an investigation into the promotion of child pornography from an incident reported back in March of 2016
Pawlikowski was apprehended Wednesday afternoon on felony counts of both Promotion and Possession of a Sexual Performance of a Child.
He was ordered to be held in the Genesee County Jail.

Corfu man arrested for trying to buy a gun while facing an order of protection.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office reports the arrest of 29 year old Robert Barnes of Corfu after he allegedly tried to purchase a firearm in Corfu last Tuesday while there was an active order of protection against him.
The FBI was notified that the accused provided false information on the background form that was submitted to the ATF bureau.
He was ultimately issued an appearance ticket for Corfu Village Court.

The Buffalo Sabres have listened to their fans and are announcing a uniform change.
The team will switch back to their classic royal blue jerseys for the 2020-2021 season.
Royal blue and gold were the Sabres’ primary colors from their inaugural season until the 1990’s.
The team will also be unveiling their 50th Anniversary alternate jersey later this morning.

The Buffalo Bills will take the field tonight for their second preseason game.
They’ll be in Charlotte to take on the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium.
Last week, the Bills beat the Indianapolis Colts 24 to 16.
Kickoff for tonight’s contest is set for 7 p.m.

Press Release:

BATAVIA – Representatives from Batavia Downs announced that the facility will be hosting a panel discussion and Q & A session with players from 1969 World Champion New York Mets. Mets legends Art Shamsky, Ed Kranepool & Ron Swoboda are touring the country to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of their unlikely, astonishing 1969 miracle campaign. The event will take place at 7pm on Friday, September 27th inside Batavia Downs’ Park Place Events Center and will be hosted by WGR’s Morning Show Host (and Mets fan) Howard Simon.

Regarded by baseball historians & enthusiasts as ‘The Greatest Season Ever,’ the previously, remarkably terrible franchise defied every prognostication (and several laws of physics) to surmount impossible odds in a historic year when Neil Armstrong also walked on the moon, & half a million music fans gathered in Bethel NY for Woodstock, while the War in Vietnam offered stark realities on the evening news.

“We are pleased to welcome these Mets legends to our facility,” said Henry Wojtaszek, President and CEO at Batavia Downs Gaming. “We look forward to hosting Mets fans from far and wide to relive this era of our history including this magical season.”

Tickets are $30 for General Admission Tickets and include entry into the event. GA ticket holders receive $20 in Free Play for the Batavia Downs Gaming Floor.

For those interested in the VIP experience, a $100 VIP ticket is available. VIP ticket holders will receive preferred seating, a meet and greet session after the event and an autographed baseball from the night’s guests. They’ll receive $50 in Free Play for the Batavia Downs Gaming Floor.

Tickets go on sale Friday, August 16th at 10am on BataviaConcerts.com.

There will be concessions available for purchase of drinks and food. There will also be memorabilia dealers on site offering all kinds of Mets items.

Guitar-playing trio and group shot from a Recovery WOW campfire outing at Northgate Free Methodist Church earlier this month. Photos courtesy of Thomas Claffey.

Press Release:

News that Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse has made the commitment to offer a recovery recreation center in Batavia is music to the ears of local residents who believe the much-needed support is a key to their sobriety.

“This needs to happen, and the sooner the better,” said Batavian Thomas Claffey, an adult digital art/photography student at Genesee Community College.  “It’s always good to be around people and to have a good support system … people that can relate to what you’re going through and not judge you.”

Claffey, 33, has struggled with alcohol and drug use for many years. He has been sober for the past nine months – “I have found my ground recently and am doing well,” he said – but is acutely aware of the possibility of relapse.

“I’m really glad to be in Batavia, away from where I encounter triggers that lead to substance use,” he said. “Addiction is a sickness and a disease that affects you mentally. It changes the chemical makeup of the brain, and makes you constantly scared of that withdrawal, but yet you’ve got to feed that demon.”

He said it is essential for him to keep his schedule filled and that’s why he got involved with Recovery WOW, a program of GCASA, and is looking forward to taking part in the various activities to be offered by the recovery recreation center that will be housed at the former Bohn’s Restaurant on Clinton Street Road.

GCASA, under the guidance of Executive Director John Bennett, is in the process of purchasing the building and plans to convert it to a gathering place for those in recovery – a destination where those dealing with drug and alcohol addiction can interact through sober living activities.

Planned activities include community clean-up and community garden projects; fitness activities (yoga, hikes, runs, biking, basketball, martial arts); art classes; peer support; cooking and nutrition classes; mutual aid and self-help meetings; games and live music, and special events during holidays.

‘Peers’ Lend a Helping Hand

Bennett said that GCASA has trained 18 peers — Certified Recovery Peer Advocates – through the state Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services to assist those in recovery.

And statistics show the need for such a program as Genesee County has one of the highest opioid overdose rates in New York.

While there is no exact statistics regarding the number of people in recovery, it is estimated that 7 percent of the population suffers from some kind of substance use disorder and that only one in seven get treatment for it, Bennett said.

Amy Kabel of Batavia is one of the peers who will be working at the recovery center.

“I’ve visited other recovery centers and realize that this is something that Batavia really needs,” said Kabel, who has a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and formerly was employed at Hope Haven, an in-patient program in Batavia.

“Our job isn’t to tell those in recovery that you can’t do this or that, or that you have to stop using (right away),” she said, “but to be there for them, no matter what their choices are.”

GCASA has set up an advisory committee, steered by Sue Gagne, the agency’s recovery center coordinator for Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming counties.

Kathy Miller of Byron, a committee member, said that her goal is to help erase the stigma placed upon those who have been involved in substance use.

“A lot of people have been diagnosed with substance or alcohol disorder and there is no place for them to hang out and not feel the stigma of addiction,” she said. “I would like to see this program expand to offer a wide variety of places for people to go and events to attend. We need to stress that it is okay to not drink or do drugs – to make that more the norm.”

Ricco Oquendo, 58, another advisory committee member, is in recovery and has been sober for 10 months. He said he is prepared to educate the public about the disease of alcohol and substance use.

“This is the best I have felt in a long time,” he said. “I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired, and, with the help of my savior, Jesus Christ, am determined to make something out of my life.”

Gagne has put together a full activities calendar – events such as campfires, hiking, tie-dye, yoga, karaoke and cooking classes – and sees the recovery recreation center as the next logical piece of the puzzle. (For more information, like us on Facebook – Recovery WOW).

“The recovery center will only increase the awareness and opportunities,” said Gagne, who previously worked for Wyoming County Mental Health. “It’s a confusing world out there, and hopefully this will be a place where people and their families can come and get support without being judged.”

The outside of ROCovery Fitness in Rochester, a former fire station, and the facility’s co-founder Yana Khaspher, left, and Lindsay Chambers, director of development. Photos by Mike Pettinella.

ROCovery Fitness: A Model for Success

The Batavia facility is being patterned after the ROCovery Outreach Center on Dewey Avenue in Rochester, a converted fire station that promotes physical fitness as a vital step on a road to recovery.

ROCovery Fitness was founded five years ago by Yana Khashper and Sean Smith, both of whom are in recovery.

They opened the outreach center two years ago after it was gifted to them by an anonymous donor. Since then, the program has been used by an estimated 3,000 people in the Rochester area.

“Greater Rochester has been very supportive,” Khashper said. “They believe in our mission, which is to meet the needs of the community.”

When asked to speak of the program’s success, she said the success is “this place.”

The outreach center features a large community room and a gymnasium (with exercise machines and free weights) on the first floor and another community room, yoga room, men’s and women’s locker rooms and offices on the second floor.

Structured activities include hula-hooping, kettlebells, weightlifting, boxing and group meetings. It is open every day except for Sunday.

Currently, the staff there is gearing up for its major fundraiser – a ROCovery 5K and X-Challenge on Sept. 15 at Mendon Ponds Park.

Jay Dockum and Adam Welch, both in recovery, said they have found a renewed sense of purpose while participating in ROCovery Outreach Center programs and are focused on living a healthy and sober existence.

“Isolation was the worst place for me,” Dockum said. “I go to meetings here, use the gym and am meeting like-minded people. I just got sick and tired of the way I was living and had to make a change.”

Welch said he has volunteered at ROCovery for about seven months after being in and out of rehab for several years.

A former software engineer, he said drugs took a toll on his career and marriage.

“Sobriety is my main job now,” he said. “I go to AA meetings and hopefully will be able to see my two boys (ages 5 and 8) soon.”

Story by Mike Pettinella, GCASA publicist

For over 3.5 hours, West Virginia’s Ryan Haug, left, and Batavia’s Harrison Dinicola were in the same position from the national anthem. Dinicola won the stand off and the video went viral Wednesday night after the Muckdogs won, 11-5 to stay in first place.

Press Release:

BATAVIA – There are 18 games left in the New York-Penn League season, but there was a playoff atmosphere at Dwyer Stadium Wednesday night.

With the West Virginia Black Bears coming in just 1.5 games behind Batavia, the managers were stealing bases, making pitching changes and even the players were involved in a stand-off that lasted over three hours.

In the end, the Batavia Muckdogs improved to 34-24 with an 11-5 win over West Virginia (31-26).

The Muckdogs trailed, 3-1 in the fourth when Nic Ready blasted a home run deep over the left field fence to cut the lead to 3-2. Ready has seven home runs on the season and went 3-for-4 with 4 RBI’s and his 25th double of the season.

A 2019 Miami Marlins draft pick in the 23rd round out of the Air Force Academy, has 34 RBI’s on the season.

Batavia shortstop Dalvy Rosario had it best offensive night of the season, going 3-for-4 with two doubles, 2 RBI’s and scored two runs as well as turning two double plays with Jack Strunc.

J.D. Orr, who leads the NYPL in hitting with a .381 average stole his 24th base of the season and despite just one hit on the night scored four runs. Strunc had two hits and scored twice.

Troy Johnston, a 17th round pick of the Marlins out of Gonzaga was 2-for-4 with two runs, 2 RBI’s and a walk. He hit his 10th double of the season.

Milton Smith II is hitting .327 after going 2-for-4.

The crowd noticed a fun stand off between Batavia’s Harrison Dinicola and West Virginia’s Ryan Haug. The two held their hats over their hearts during the national anthem, then players from both teams picked them up like a statue and put them standing in the same position on the bench. During each inning, the players were decorated by Gatorade cups and never moved from the position for over three and a half hours.

When Haug finally had to leave the dugout after the game to catch the bus, Dinicola was the victor, touching off a wild celebration by the players including a water and Gatorade bath.

“That was one of the hardest things I’ve done in my life. My teammates gave me a lot of adrenaline during the game,” said Dinicola. “We had a great team win .The pitchers came in and did their job and our hitters kept hitting, I love it. Go Muckdogs!”

The video of the standoff on the Muckdogs social media sites, had over 20,000 combined views after the game and was shared by Minor League Baseball, Yahoo Sports and others.

The Muckdogs went over 30,000 fans on the season, which is over 3,000 more than all of 2018 with 10 home games remaining.

Andrew Miller started and struck out four in 4.1 innings giving up three runs. With runners on in the fifth, M.D. Johnson came in and retired the only two batters he faced to pick up his first win of the season. At 1-0, Johnson has pitched 12.2 innings with 16 strikeouts.

Bryan Hoeing earned his third hold throwing two innings with two strikeouts, no walks, no runs and just two hits.

Brock Love then closed it with three strikeouts in the last two innings.

Tonight is First Responders Night as all first responders receive two free general admission tickets. it is also Thirsty Thursday with Labatt’s and other special $2 beer prices. The two teams also play Friday night at Dwyer Stadium, both games at 7:05 p.m.

Tickets are available at muckdogs.com or stop by the Dwyer Stadium Ticket office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. The number is 585-483-3647.

The Muckdogs are on Facebook, twitter and Instagram and now have a BataviaMuckdogs snapchat account. Follow the team on social media for game updates and videos and photos during the games of fans and players.

A Genesee County Grand Jury has handed down an eight count indictment accusing Benjamin Santiago Jr. of forcibly robbing an individual in an upper apartment on Ellicott Street back in June and attacking them with a hammer.
He is facing Class B Felony counts of first-degree robbery, first-degree assault and intentionally causing serious physical injury to a person during the commission of a crime after allegedly forcing his way into their residence, threatening and then attacking them with a hammer.
Santiago is also facing counts of both grand and petit larceny for allegedly stealing a credit or debit card, a Fuji bicycle from a different victim on Bank Street the same day and for allegedly stealing a 2010 Ford F150 Lariat super cab truck, belonging to yet a third victim.

Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies took three people into custody during the Beck Concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Tuesday August 13th.
33 year old Michael Bauer of Cheektowaga was arrested for Harassment and Criminal Mischief for allegedly punching another patron and breaking their glasses in the parking lot.
A 20 year old from Snyder was arrested for False Personation after she allegedly provided a false license and a 19 year old resident of Newark was pinched for Trespassing after he allegedly climbed on top of a vending building inside the venue.
All three were issued appearance tickets to appear in Darien Town Court on August 27th.

Ellicott Street man behind bars following a domestic incident.
38 year old Wesley Thigpen was arrested by City Police Tuesday night following report of a domestic dispute at a Hall Street residence in Batavia where he was allegedly in violation of a court order of protection.
Thigpen was charged with Criminal Contempt and remanded to the Genesee County Jail to reappear in City Court on August 22nd.

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to announce the addition of Jodi Fisher to its team as the new museum marketing coordinator.
The museum and its supporters welcome Fisher as her experience and personality will be wonderful additions to the HLOM.
As marketing coordinator, she will be responsible for promoting the museum’s large number of exhibits, events and programming to a wider audience both within Genesee County and Western New York as a whole.

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants today from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and tomorrow from approximately 8 to noon in the areas south of Main Street and west of Jackson Street.
Flushing and testing operations will continue south of East Main St. and east of Jackson St. next Monday through Wednesday from approximately 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

Press Release:

The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Beck Concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Tuesday August 13, 2019:

The following were issued APPEARANCE TICKETS to appear in Darien Court on August 27, 2019 at 3 PM:

Michael L. Bauer age 33 of William St. Cheektowaga, NY arrested for Harassment 2nd and Criminal Mischief 4th after allegedly punching another patron and breaking their glasses in the Parking Lot.

Wendy M. A. Woite age 20 of Chateau Ter. Snyder, NY arrested for False Personation after allegedly providing a false license.

Luke D. Wilson age 19 of W. Miller St. Newark, NY arrested for Trespass after allegedly climbing on top of a vending building inside the concert venue.

Antoinette Marchese Clancy

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY (08/14/2019) Love stories play out in amazing ways-from poetry and song, to the choice of a vocation or career as a lifelong caregiver. Occasionally, a love can be so strong that it pays forward and manifests itself in the future becoming ever stronger over time. That is the story behind the Antoinette Marchese Clancy Nursing Scholarship, a newly established fund recently created by the Clancy Family to recognize Antoinette Marchese Clancy, a 1974 graduate of Genesee Community College’s Nursing Program.

On Monday, August 12, 2019, the Genesee Community College Board of Trustees approved a Resolution of Appreciation to recognize a substantial gift made by Emmett and Antoinette Clancy, residents of Southern California. Together, they created a new scholarship that will annually support several, second-year nursing students enrolled at GCC. And, as life and love would have it, this new scholarship fund, the largest gift ever made to a GCC academic program, comes at the perfect time as GCC is getting ready to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Nursing Program this coming year.

Antoinette Marchese was born in 1952 and grew up in Batavia on Farwell Drive. She graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1970, where she met Emmett, who recalls falling in love with her at age 13. After working as a nurse’s aide at St. Jerome’s Hospital, she started her nursing degree at D’Youville College, but transferred and graduated from GCC in 1974 earning the Nursing Excellence Award, an honor that still makes her heart sing. That same year, she married her high school sweetheart, which still makes his heart sing!

They first settled in Albany where Emmett attended Albany Law School, and his lovely bride was hired by Albany Medical Center “sight unseen.” She quickly became the charge nurse of the Maternity Unit, a position she maintained until 1977 when they started their family. They relocated to California in 1982 where they raised their family.

As they celebrate 45 years of marriage and enjoy a family of five children and 11 grandchildren, Mr. Clancy sought an opportunity to recognize the hard work, dedication and selflessness of his partner of 53 years. He reached out to Genesee Community College, remembering how much the College and the Nursing Excellence Award meant to his wife, and also knowing that she would want to help the next generation of nursing students. The resulting scholarship and the new Antoinette Marchese Clancy Excellence Award is a unique form of poetry and music, reflecting how the gift of giving is almost always shrouded in love that makes life worth living.

“On behalf of the College community and scores of nursing students who will not even step on this campus for years to come, I thank the Clancy family and express my deepest gratitude for their generous support,” James M. Sunser, president of GCC said. “Their gift will have a lasting impact on nurses of tomorrow-and by extension, hundreds of students in decades to come. This truly is an exemplary example of paying it forward.”

A formal recognition reception with the Clancys in attendance will be held in the Spring of 2020 as a highlight of the 50th Anniversary Celebration of GCC’s Nursing Program and the annual Nursing graduation ceremony.

For further information, contact Tammy Arneth, director of development with GCC’s Foundation at tlarneth@genesee.edu or call 585-345-6809.

Press Release:

Genesee County STOP-DWI Coordinator announced today that the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, City of Batavia Police Department and the Village of LeRoy Police Department will participate in a special enforcement effort to crackdown on impaired driving.

While we spend the Labor Day holiday and the end of summer celebrating with our loved ones, law enforcement officers across New York State will take to the roads in an effort to stop impaired driving, prevent injuries and save lives. The statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown efforts start on August 14th and will end on September 2nd.

Research shows that high-visibility enforcement can reduce impaired driving fatalities by as much as 20 percent. Sobriety checkpoints play a key part in raising awareness about the problem. New York State Police, County Sheriff and municipal law enforcement agencies across the state will be out in force.

The STOP-DWI Labor Day Weekend Crackdown is one of many statewide enforcement initiatives promoted by the New York State STOP-DWI Association with additional funding from our STOP-DWI Foundation and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. Throughout the remainder of the year the Statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign will also target Halloween and the national Holiday Season in December.

While STOP-DWI efforts across New York have led to significant reductions in the numbers of alcohol and drug related fatalities, still too many lives are being lost because of crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers. Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign aim to further reduce the incidence of drunk and impaired driving.
You can help to make a difference by Having a Sober Plan! Download our mobile app – “Have a Plan” and you will always be able to find a safe ride home www.stopdwi.org/mobileapp Impaired driving is completely preventable. All it takes is a little planning. Have a safe and happy Labor Day Weekend!

LeRoy Police took part in a short standoff at a residence on Church Street in the Village to apprehend a Parolee wanted on a State Parolee warrant.
45 year old Michael VanBuskirk Jr. of Lake Street, LeRoy was allegedly wanted by New York State Parole as an Absconder and had a Parole Warrant issued for his arrest.
VanBuskirk was seen entering a relative’s house on Church St in the Village yesterday shortly after noon and when Officers attempted to take him into custody he failed to answer the door or come outside.
The residence was surrounded and the roadway was closed for a short amount time.
During the standoff, the homeowner came home and allowed the officers inside where VanBuskirk was located and taken into custody without further incident.
He was then jailed on the Parole Warrant.

Members of City Council expressed their disappointment with the lack of progress seen at what has been dubbed the Ellicott Station project.
The development project planned on Ellicott Street in Batavia was announced in March of 2016 with Buffalo based developer Savarino Companies’ vision of office, retail, residential and entertainment space filling the brownfield site.
Council members voiced their concerns at their Monday night meeting citing that there has been no visible work done on the $20 million development since the announcement.
Council Member Robert Bialkowski said he was very disappointed in the developer, calling the property an eyesore and questioning what kind of landlord Savarino will be considering the state the site has deteriorated to.
The board voted, 6 to 2, in favor of City Manager Martin Moore writing a letter of support to the commissioner of the state Division of Housing and Community Renewal highlighting the importance of the project to the city and how it aligns with the HCR’s mission to build and support affordable housing.

Genesee County lawmen taking part in Statewide STOP-DWI Labor Day Crackdown Enforcement Effort.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, City of Batavia and the Village of LeRoy Police Departments will take to the roads in an effort to stop impaired driving, prevent injuries and save lives in the statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown effort which begins today and ends on September 2nd.

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants from 9 to 3 today and tomorrow and on Friday from approximately 8 to noon in the areas south of Main Street and west of Jackson Street.
Homes and businesses in the vicinity will be affected and may result in a temporary discoloration of tap water.
As in the past, please do not attempt to wash any clothing with discolored water but instead run cold water for about 5 minutes or until clear.

The Genesee County Highway Department announces that Railroad Avenue between Route 98 and Sandpit Road in Alexander is closed through August 27th.
Detour signs will be posted.
The public will be notified when it reopens.