Thursday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on August 14, 2025
Batavia City School District Seeks Volunteers for Robert Morris Playground Build
The Batavia City School District is calling on the community to help build the new Robert Morris playground during a two-day “community build” on Saturday, September 6, and Sunday, September 7, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The playground will feature age-appropriate equipment for preschool and elementary children, creating a safe, engaging space for years to come.
Principal Jessica Korzelius says the project is a chance for the community to come together to give students a lasting gift. Superintendent Jason Smith adds that using professionals to guide volunteers will save money while fostering a sense of ownership.
Volunteers must be able to lift 50 pounds, have basic hand tool experience, and work well on a team.
For details or to sign up, call Robert Morris at (585) 343-2480 ext. 6000.
Trivia Night at Holland Land Office Museum
The Holland Land Office Museum is hosting its monthly Trivia Night tonight from 7 to 8 p.m.
This month’s theme is National Parks, testing your knowledge of some of America’s most beautiful landscapes.
Admission is $5, or $3 for museum members. To reserve your spot, call 585-343-4727 or email hollandlandoffice@gmail.com.
Batavia Moves to Ban Cannabis Drive-Throughs
Batavia leaders are moving ahead with zoning changes that would ban drive-through cannabis sales.
City Manager Rachael Tabelski says feedback from residents shows they don’t want drive-throughs, and the owners of a planned West Main Street dispensary have agreed to stick with walk-up and delivery only.
The updated code would also set buffer zones from schools, churches, and other dispensaries, limit hours of operation, and require special use permits for all cannabis retailers.
Genesee County Planning Board to Review Bergen Renovation, Pembroke Cannabis Greenhouse
Camryn Brookhart with the Batavian reports,the Genesee County Planning Board will meet Thursday at 7 p.m. to discuss new developments in the county.
Batavia landlord Gary Miller plans to renovate two abandoned buildings in Bergen, at 15 and 17 North Lake Avenue. His proposal includes a laundromat called “The Washhouse,” a beauty salon, retail space, and a studio apartment for $400 a month.
Miller says the buildings have been vacant for decades and are part of Bergen’s Lake Street Historic District. The laundromat will offer cell phone payments, and a mural artist from Buffalo will paint the interior.
The planning board will also review a proposal from Foggy Hill Farms in Pembroke. The company wants to convert a greenhouse at 531 Main Road to grow and distribute cannabis, without retail sales.
Security measures for the greenhouse would include fencing, surveillance, and controlled property access. Additional landscaping may be required if neighbors request it.
The board will review both projects and provide guidance on next steps.
Painting Fun at Batavia Library for Kids
Kids ages 5 to 12 are invited to join a painting event at Richmond Memorial Library this evening from 6 to 7 p.m.
Younger siblings are welcome to participate, and all materials will be provided.
Registration is required at batavialibrary.org. For more information, call the library at 585-343-9550.
It’s a great way for kids to get creative and have fun this evening at the library!
State Senator Borrello Hands Out Backpacks at GLOW YMCA
State Senator George Borrello visited the GLOW YMCA Monday to give away 100 backpacks to Summer Day Camp and Parks Program children.
The backpacks, donated by Madison Square Garden and enhanced with pencils, markers, and other school supplies, were handed out to kids ready—or not—for the new school year.
Borrello said this is the first time MSG has donated outside New York City. YMCA CEO Erik Fix said the location worked perfectly, as campers and local Parks Program kids were already gathered for the summer programs.
The giveaway included a fun “unpacking” activity, letting kids explore the contents before heading home.
