Tuesday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on November 11, 2025
“Stuff the Cruiser” Returns to Batavia November 22
Local law enforcement and community partners will once again team up for the annual “Stuff the Cruiser” holiday drive, set for Saturday, November 22, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Batavia Towne Center and the Walmart Supercenter on Veterans Memorial Drive.
Participating agencies include the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Batavia Police, New York State Police, and several county departments.
Community members are encouraged to donate new toys, clothing, small gift cards, personal care items, hats, gloves, and non-perishable food to help families in need.
Last year’s drive reached more than 300 families and 500 children across Genesee County.
All donations collected will stay local to support children, teens, and families this holiday season.
For more information, contact Jason Mindler at 585-344-2550 ext. 2254.
Batavia Downs Offering Free Meals to Veterans Today
Batavia Downs is honoring local Veterans and Active-Duty Military Members today, Tuesday, November 11, with a complimentary meal at 34 Rush.
The offer runs from noon to 6 p.m. and includes a choice of four menu items. Veterans are asked to present valid military ID at the restaurant.
Batavia Downs President and CEO Byron Brown is scheduled to help serve meals to veterans during the event.
Rochester Regional Health Launches Free DNA Screening Program “GenoWell”
Rochester Regional Health has launched GenoWell, a first-of-its-kind community health research program offering no-cost DNA screening to identify genetic risks for certain cancers and heart disease.
In partnership with Helix, a leader in population genomics, GenoWell aims to reach 100,000 adults across the region over the next five years.
RRH CEO Dr. Chip Davis says the program continues the system’s legacy of proactive, preventive care — helping participants make personalized health decisions through early detection and genetic insight.
Batavia Considering Pilot Project to Boost Water Supply, Cut Creek Discharge
The City of Batavia could soon partner with Econse Water Technologies on a pilot project to help address growing water supply and treatment challenges.
Econse CEO Derek Davy says Batavia faces increasing water demand, regional droughts, and tighter environmental regulations that limit how much phosphorus and other materials can be discharged into the Tonawanda Creek. His company’s proposal would use compact membrane bioreactor technology to improve wastewater quality — potentially providing new usable water for the city while protecting local waterways.
Phase one of the plan would cost between $75,000 and $125,000 and could increase treatment capacity by 15,000 gallons per day within six months. A larger second phase could expand that up to 250,000 gallons per day at a cost of up to $2.5 million.
Davy calls Batavia’s approach “forward thinking,” saying the city could become a leader in sustainable water reuse and conservation.
Batavia Downs Hosting Mid-November Job Fair
Batavia Downs will hold a Job Fair this Thursday, November 13th, from 2 to 6 p.m. inside the gaming facility. The event aims to connect local job seekers with positions in food and beverage, gaming, marketing, security, and IT.
President and CEO Byron Brown says Batavia Downs is one of Genesee County’s largest employers, offering full-time, part-time, and seasonal jobs — along with eligibility for the New York State Retirement System.
Applicants are encouraged to bring resumes and dress for success. Light snacks will be provided.
