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Community Corner

Gaspari, Roberts Honored at Council Meeting

Two longtime Batavia High School coaches received recognition from City Hall.

Mayor Jeff Schielke and the Batavia City Council on Monday honored Mike Gaspari and Jim Roberts for their dedication to . 

Gaspari, the school's outgoing head football coach and athletic director, sought to teach by example. By doing this, Gaspari instilled confidence, sportsmanship and courage in his team, Alderman Tom Schmitz said. These factors, combined with the state championship visits and victories, played a part in Gaspari's induction into the Illinois High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame, Schmitz said.

“Whatever little impact I may have had, this community has had a far greater impact on me and my family," Gaspari said. "I thank you all for your commitment to Batavia and making this an incredible place to raise kids,” Gaspari said. To read more about Gaspari and his Hall of Fame induction, click .

The Council also approved a proclamation honoring BHS Varsity Basketball Coach Jim Roberts. Roberts was inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame for his remarkable victories, including taking his team to the Illinois High School Association Basketball Championship, where his team was filmed in the award winning documentary Hoop Dreams, Schmitz said. 

Roberts has earned the admiration of teammates, fans and opponents for his commitment to honorable sportsmanship, Schmitz added. Roberts thanked Gaspari for all his support throughout his years at Batavia High School, stating certain things wouldn’t have been as easy, or possible, without him. To read more about Roberts and his Hall of Fame induction, click .

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To read about action the City Council took on a new restaurant, its Facade Grant program and Streetscape costs, click .

To read about the city's latest department heads and Alderman being sworn in for new terms, click .

Find out what's happening in Bataviawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

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