Tuesday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on December 9, 2025
Oakfield-Alabama Alumni Rally to Upgrade Swimming Program with New Starting Blocks
The Oakfield-Alabama swimming community is celebrating a major upgrade, thanks to the generosity of alumni spanning more than five decades. Graduates from the 1970s through today joined forces to donate four new wedge-style starting blocks for the high school pool—equipment that will greatly improve training and competition for the young, rebuilding OA Sharks program.
The effort began with the family of former OA Shark and longtime Section V swim referee Ken Yunker. In his memory, Ken’s sister Mary raised funds for a new starter PA system. As support grew, the Yunker siblings expanded their donation in honor of their brother Rob Yunker, contributing enough to purchase two starting blocks and the PA system.
To help secure the remaining two blocks, OA alumnae Tori and Reilly Davis launched a summer can drive, backed by Athletic Director JC Montroy and Head Coach Macrae Haluszczak. The community response was overwhelming—donations poured in from Genesee County and across the United States, from swimmers and families who competed for OA in the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, and beyond. As the campaign neared its goal, Patricia Yunker made a final generous contribution to ensure the blocks could be ordered for this season.
The new wedge blocks meet top competitive standards, giving OA swimmers more explosive starts and a modernized race experience. The team is still fundraising for one additional block and other training equipment as they continue building the program.
The Sharks swim strong today because generations before them cared—and this upgrade is proof of the enduring strength of the OA swimming community.
GCEDC Reports Over 4,000 Students Reached Through Workforce Programs in 2025
More than 4,000 participants benefited this year from workforce development and career-exploration programs supported by the GCEDC and GGLDC. Workforce consultant Sheila Eigenbrod told board members that outreach included 30 school events, the launch of ACT WorkKeys and National Career Readiness Certificates, a new GV BOCES testing center, and creation of a Genesee County Career Roadmap.
Students like Pavilion’s Timothy Lonnen earned nationally recognized credentials showing essential workplace skills. GCEDC leaders credit strong partnerships with schools, BOCES, GCC, and regional workforce agencies, supported by county funding, for helping prepare Genesee County students for careers in healthcare, manufacturing, trades, and agriculture.
Batavia Downs’ Movember Campaign Exceeds Goal, Raises $1,250 for Men’s Health
Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corporation and Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel are celebrating the success of their 2025 Movember campaign. With a goal of $500, employees, board members, and community supporters more than doubled it, raising $1,250 to support men’s health programs. Throughout November, staff grew mustaches and beards to spark conversations about issues that affect millions of men every year.
President and CEO Byron W. Brown said he was honored to stand with employees committed to raising awareness and thanked all who donated. Funds raised will help Movember support prostate and testicular cancer research, mental-health programs, early-detection initiatives, and global men’s health innovation.
Movember highlights urgent needs: one in eight men will face prostate cancer, testicular cancer remains the most common cancer in young men, and men often avoid checkups or delay seeking help for physical and mental health concerns.
Donations can be made through December 10th at the Movember team page. Batavia Downs says the campaign reflects its commitment to community wellness and employee-driven charitable efforts.
Main St. 56 Theater Announces 2026 Season: Beautiful, Bold & Brave
Main St. 56 Theater has unveiled its 2026 season following a big day at Christmas in the City. The lineup features 11 productions—including The Cemetery Club, The Taming of the Shrew, Gypsy, Chicago: Teen Edition, The Miracle Worker, and Annie. Tickets will be available soon at bataviaplayers.org and in person at the theater’s Annual Gala and Harvie Awards on January 10, where the season will be officially launched.
Genesee County High School Basketball from Monday Night
In boys action, Oakfield-Alabama earned a solid 70–55 victory over Lyndonville, using a strong second half to pull away and stay unbeaten early in the season.
On the girls side, Byron-Bergen turned in a dominant performance, defeating Attica 53–25 behind tough defense and balanced scoring as the Bees continue to build momentum.
