Monday News Brief
Written by Mitch Ernst on June 1, 2025
Harvester Center Tenants Told to Get Out
In Batavia, more than 20 tenants at the Harvester Center have just 30 days to pack up and leave.
A letter dated May 27th from management notified businesses they must vacate the 29-acre industrial complex on Harvester Avenue by June 30th, as the property is being cleared for a larger redevelopment plan.
The news came as a shock to tenants and city officials alike. Tammy Hathaway, director of the Batavia Development Corporation, says she’s working to help affected businesses find new locations.
The Harvester Center—purchased by Amerinac Holding Corp. in 2021—has been at the center of a legal battle with the city since last year over multiple code violations. It’s unclear if that legal dispute is connected to the sudden evictions.
Amerinac is due back in City Housing Court on June 16th.
Some relocation support is being offered, but at a cost—and a misspelled contact email in the letter has only added to tenant frustrations.
Live Music
Happening tonight, Monday, June 2nd from 6 to 9 p.m. — it’s live music and BBQ at the Indian Falls Log Cabin Restaurant in Corfu!
Come out rain or shine to 1227 Gilmore Road for great tunes and mouthwatering BBQ specials hot off the outdoor smoker. It’s the perfect way to kick off your week—good food, good music, and good company.
That’s tonight, 6 to 9 p.m. at Indian Falls Log Cabin! Don’t miss it!
Rochester Burglary
13WHAM News reports, two men are in custody following a burglary early Sunday morning at Tropix, a music venue on Lake Avenue in Charlotte.
Rochester Police responded just before 5 a.m., establishing a perimeter and using a K9 unit to search the building.
During the search, officers spotted two suspects fleeing from a second-story window, jumping onto the roof of a neighboring business. Officers on the perimeter quickly took both into custody.
One of the suspects is a 26-year-old Rochester man. The other man’s identity is still being confirmed.
Police say both will face charges of burglary and criminal mischief.
Crosby’s in Byron Sees Updates
The Batavian reports, a ribbon-cutting, community donations, and plenty of smiles marked the grand reopening of Crosby’s Convenience Store in Byron on a sunny Friday morning.
After years without updates, the store at Routes 237 and 262 got a major refresh. Lenny Smith, vice president of the Reid Group, said the goal was to give Byron a store the community could be proud of — whether it’s for fuel, food, or just friendly conversation.
To thank the town, Crosby’s donated checks to the Byron Volunteer Fire Department, Byron-Bergen Central School, and the Byron Historical Society. Photos from Byron’s past now hang in the store, thanks to a partnership with the Historical Society.
The remodel is part of a bigger rebrand across all 90 Crosby’s locations planned for 2025. The store now includes the full pizza and sub menu, which leadership calls “critical” to their growth.
And as marketing rep Serene Lazaro put it with a smile:
“Just come down and get your pizza here—so you have pizza.”
Game Night
Happening tonight from 6 to 9 p.m. — it’s Game Night at GO ART! in downtown Batavia, located at 201 East Main Street.
Bring a friend or loved one and enjoy a wide selection of board games, card games, and more. You’re welcome to bring your own or try something new from their collection.
Admission is free, and the fun starts at 6!
Ontario County Man Found Dead
The Ontario County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that human remains found this week in Victor are those of Reggie Vardon, the 83-year-old man who went missing last July.
Vardon was last seen on July 15 leaving ESL on School Street. His remains were discovered Tuesday night by someone fishing in Mud Creek, in a remote area off McMahon Road.
Sheriff David Cirencione said dental X-rays were used to confirm Vardon’s identity. The area where he was found was dense and hard to access, likely obscuring him from previous search efforts.
Authorities believe Vardon may have been swept away during the severe storm that hit on the day he disappeared. While the exact cause of death is still unknown, officials say they hope this brings some peace to the Vardon family.
Sports Scores
In a dramatic season opener, the Buffalo Stampede edged out the Genesee County Spartans, 18–17, Saturday at Mulray Park.
Stampede backup QB Anthony Davis hit Kendrick Benson for the game-winning touchdown with just 54 seconds left, capping a comeback from a 17–6 deficit.
Despite two TDs from Deyonci Farley and a strong first half, costly turnovers doomed the Spartans.
They’ll look to bounce back at their home opener next Saturday, 7 p.m. at Van Detta Stadium in Batavia.
The Batavia Muckdogs crushed the Elmira Pioneers 13–1 in their 2025 home opener Saturday night at Dwyer Stadium.
Batavia exploded for seven runs in the fourth, backed by 14 hits and a strong outing from starter Gavin Chandler, who earned the win.
Sean Mindas tripled and drove in two, while Tyler Castrataro led with three RBIs.
A crowd of over 2,600 enjoyed the win and a postgame fireworks show.
