Monday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on July 7, 2025
No Kings Protest Talk of Town on July 4th Weekend
Dozens gathered in downtown Batavia on Independence Day for a protest titled “We the People: No Kings Since 1776”—calling attention to what they described as an increasingly authoritarian administration and threats to the rights of transgender youth and working families.
From Main and Jefferson to beyond the Main Street 56 Theater, participants held signs, chanted, and engaged with passing drivers between noon and 2 p.m.
Organizers say the demonstration was sparked by recent legislation that could harm low-income families, including those on Medicaid and SNAP. Protesters also voiced concern over policies affecting transgender youth, including the removal of suicide hotline support.
Local activists from groups like GLOW Community Alliance and Democratic Socialists of America say peaceful protest remains vital for democracy, especially during challenging times.
While some drivers showed support with honks, others responded with hostility, but organizers say turnout—over 100 people—shows growing momentum for future events.
Live Music
Tonight, head to the Indian Falls Log Cabin Restaurant in Corfu for live music from the Dave Viterna Group!
The band plays from 6 to 9 p.m., rain or shine, with mouthwatering BBQ specials straight from the outdoor smoker.
That’s tonight—Monday, July 7—at 1227 Gilmore Road in Corfu. Great tunes, great food, and a perfect summer night out!
Muckdogs
The Batavia Muckdogs went 2-1 in a three-game series against the Niagara Falls Americans.
After a tough 2-1 loss at home Thursday, the Muckdogs bounced back on the Fourth of July with a 7-2 road win.
They kept the momentum going Saturday at Dwyer Stadium, cruising to a 9-3 victory to improve to 18-9 on the season and maintain their division lead.
Excelsior Energy Project Expands in Byron
In Byron, the Excelsior Energy Center has received state approval to expand its 280-megawatt solar project.
The New York State Board on Electric Generation Siting and Environment voted unanimously Tuesday to allow Excelsior to add four new parcels to the $345 million project. Officials say the change won’t increase environmental impacts and will actually reduce the use of public rights-of-way for underground collection lines—from over 5,600 feet to just 1,500.
Construction will follow strict state guidelines to protect farmland, wetlands, and streams, using methods like directional drilling and cable plowing.
The expanded project remains entirely underground—no overhead structures will be added.
The Excelsior Energy Center project spans land between Tower Hill, Ivison, Griswold, and Transit roads in Byron.
Ammonia Leak
Early Saturday morning, Bergen Fire responded to an ammonia leak at Nortera on Church Street.
The call came in around 2 a.m., prompting a full evacuation of the building and a Hazmat team request.
Employees were able to isolate the leak, and the issue was quickly mitigated.
The building was ventilated, and Bergen Fire returned to service by 2:53 a.m.
Borrelli Enters Legislature Race
John Borrelli is running as a Democrat for the Genesee County Legislature’s District 9 seat, which covers Batavia’s Wards 4 and 5.
He’ll face City Councilmembers Robert Bialkowski and Kathleen Briggs in November, with his name also appearing on the independent Batavia’s Voice line.
Borrelli, a Le Roy native and longtime coach at Notre Dame High School, says his campaign is focused on youth, the elderly, and protecting vital local programs.
He says now is the right time to enter politics and hopes to follow in the footsteps of his late father, Nicholas, a former legislator and mayor of Le Roy.
Zeigler Wins Stars & Stripes Showdown
Mason Zeigler claimed redemption and a $10,004 payday Friday night at the Genesee Speedway, winning the 50-lap Super Late Model feature in the Stars & Stripes Showdown finale.
Zeigler led most of the way after drawing the pole alongside Dave Hess Jr., holding off a late charge from Hess before a caution with two laps left sealed the deal.
Logan Zarin finished third after dominating time trials.
In other action, Pavilion’s Damian Long won the Street Stock feature, and track promoter James Gayton returned to victory lane in the Mini Stocks.
Next up is the Brian Ace Memorial on July 12.
