Wednesday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on September 24, 2025
Oakfield-Alabama Superintendent Steps Down After Board Agreement
The Oakfield-Alabama Central School District Board of Education has accepted the resignation of Superintendent John Fisgus, effective immediately, after both sides reached a mutual separation agreement during a special meeting last week.
Board President Justin Staebell said the move was not due to any misconduct but rather differences in priorities. “After considerable reflection and amicable discussions, both parties have agreed to a mutual separation,” Staebell said. “We thank Mr. Fisgus for his service and wish him the best moving forward.”
Fisgus was hired in 2018 and previously served as principal at Royalton-Hartland Middle School. His career began in 1998 as an eighth-grade math teacher in Depew, and he holds advanced degrees in mathematics education and school administration.
The board appointed Robert Banzer as interim superintendent while it determines next steps in the search for a permanent replacement.
Rochester Regional Welcomes New Spine Specialist to Batavia
Rochester Regional Health has announced that Dr. Evan Miller has joined its Orthopedic Spine team and is now seeing patients at Genesee Orthopedics on Oak Orchard Road in Batavia.
Dr. Miller specializes in comprehensive spinal care, including degenerative disc disease, spinal cord compression, injuries, and minimally invasive procedures. He emphasizes individualized, evidence-based treatment and shared decision-making, exploring non-surgical options when possible.
New patients are welcome. Appointments can be scheduled at (585) 343-9676 or online at rochesterregional.org.
$7,500 Guaranteed Pick-5 Pool at Batavia Downs Tonight
Batavia Downs will offer a $7,500 guaranteed Pick-5 pool tonight, after Saturday’s card produced a $2,556 carryover. The Pick-5 is a 50-cent minimum wager covering races one through five, with first post at 6 p.m. The guarantee is part of the USTA’s Strategic Wagering program, and free past performance pages are available at handicapping.ustrotting.com.
In addition, Wednesday’s card features a $2,016 carryover in the Jackpot Super Hi-5 pentafecta in race 13. Live coverage streams free on the Batavia Downs YouTube channel.
Batavia School District Tightens Stadium Rules After Arrests
The Batavia City School District is tightening rules for events at VanDetta Stadium after five people were arrested following Friday night’s Homecoming game, including one Batavia High student.
District officials say students in eighth grade or younger must now be accompanied by an adult at all times. Spectators must remain seated except for concessions or restrooms. The practice field is closed until further notice, and if you leave the game, you won’t be allowed back in.
Board President John Reigle says the goal is to restore respect, sportsmanship, and school spirit at events. He added that adults or students who disrupt will be removed and could face suspension from future games.
Superintendent Jason Smith says the district is also working with Batavia Police and expects to issue another statement later this week.
Batavia CTE Center Seeks Homeowners for Student-Built Dream Home Project
The Batavia CTE Center Building Trades Program is now accepting applications from homeowners interested in having a student-built dream home constructed during the 2026–27 school year. The program gives students hands-on construction experience while helping families bring their vision to life.
Applicants must live within 15 miles of the Batavia CTE Center, and the deadline to apply is Friday, November 7th. More information and applications are available online through Genesee Valley BOCES.
