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NYSS freshman male pacers at Batavia Downs

By Billie Owens

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

The top two point leaders for New York Sire Stake 2-year-old pacing colts and geldings will headline the 16 starters who will compete for $111,000 in two divisions at Batavia Downs on Saturday night (Sept. 3)

In the first $55,500 division, Miso Fast (Roll With Joe-Sakura Hanover) comes in leading all his peers with 205 NYSS points on the strength of four consecutive wins in that competition this year. In his last start at Yonkers, he got parked out the better part of the mile and ended up finishing fifth in 1:55.4. That event was on Aug. 18 and he hasn’t raced since, so he comes in to this race off a 16-day layoff.

This year, Miso Fast has a mark of 1:53.1 at Tioga Downs and has banked $79,636 in earnings.

Trainer Ron Burke has retained the services of Jim Morrill Jr. to do the driving and Miso Fast will leave from post three as the 9-5 morning line favorite.

Serious Major (Art Major-Seriously) will be strong competition as he moved into the NYSS level after winning three straight races at the Excelsior A level. Since making the jump he has won at Yonkers Raceway in 1:56.2 and finished second at Vernon Downs in 1:52.3 to Funknwaffles who will race in the other division here. For the year, Serious Major is five out of six in the win column.

Serious Major  took a mark of 1:54.4 at Tioga Downs and has won $78,606 in purses.

Ray Fisher Jr. will pick up the lines for trainer Chris Ryder and leave from post 5 as the 7-2 second choice.

In the second $55,500 split, Funknwaffles (American Ideal-Hatsoff Hanover) is a perfect six for six on the year, leads all his NYSS competitors in earnings and currently sits second in points with 150. He started out in Excelsior A, winning three races there before moving up to NYSS action where he won three more.

Funknwaffles just scored his lifetime mark at Vernon last week in 1:52.1 and has $106,439 in purses for his efforts.

Jim Morrill Jr. will be in the bike for trainer John Butenschoen and is listed at 9-5 from post seven.

Pointomygranson (American Ideal-Sangall) has only one NYSS win this year and would just make the final if today’s points were to decide it. But he’s been a solid competitor in every race he’s been in. He was second at Monticello Raceway in 1:56.1, coming home in :27.3. And last week at Mohawk Raceway in the Metro he closed sharply from seventh in :26.1 to finish fourth, beaten only a length and a half in a 1:51.3 mile.

Pointomygranson has a mark of 1:55.1 at Saratoga Raceway and has earned $35,479 this year.

Marcus Miller will be in the house to drive for trainer Chris Ryder and drew the invisible rail at 4-1.

There are also two divisions of the Excelsior A series on the card that is slated to begin at 6:15 p.m. 

FOUND: Ferdy is missing in Alexander, may have party plans for Labor Day Weekend

By Billie Owens

This cat is named Ferdy. Ferdy is missing. He is visiting relatives on Brookville Road in Alexander, in the Old Creek Road area, while his mommy is in the hospital.

As you can see, he is a very large, long-haired orange and white male. Would you believe at times, as depicted here, he is not particularly motivated?

But, then again, freedom can be a powerful motivator.

Perhaps we'll never know if he had been hatching plans to leave captivity and for how long.

What it known is that, according to his temporary nanny Elizabeth Crittenden, "he popped the screen out of the window and escaped," in the predawn hours -- between 2 and 6 a.m. -- Wednesday.

Stealthily, in the dead of night, when all were sleeping soundly. This one is clever. Either that, or Ferdy clumsily fell to earth while lolling around on the window sill. He left, but since this is not his regular stomping grounds, he may not be familiar with the lay of the land and how to return, says a worried Crittenden.

The timing is suspect; the feline may have festive plans afoot for Labor Day Weekend. (An anonymous source told The Batavian he has a reputation as a bit of a bon vivant.) 

Crittenden and her kin are hoping you'll report him without hestitation if you should spot him in your environs. This would foil Ferdy's fun, but he and his family and caretakers will be the better for it.

Crittenden's number is 585-590-2657.

UPDATE Sept. 2: At about 10:30 last night, Crittenden says "He just showed up on the back deck as casual as ever!" No fanfare, no "Burning Man" blowout for Labor Day, no tearjerker rescue story. Just chillin' in Alexander and wondering why all the fuss...

Three 'Garden Talks' remaining for 2016 season at Cornell Cooperative Extension

By Billie Owens

Press release:

As summer winds down and we head into fall, there are still three more “Garden Talk” programs this year!

Taught by Master Gardeners, programs will be held once a month, during the “lunch hour” from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. Bring your lunch to the Cornell Cooperative Extension Office (420 E. Main St., Batavia) and join us. This series is free and open to the public. Registration is not required.

Sept. 6 will be a follow up to our May herb program. After growing your herbs all summer, what can you do with them now? We’ll give you some ideas of things you can use your herbs for.

On Oct. 4, get ready to feed your backyard birds as we’ll offer tips and answer questions about Winter Bird Feeding.

Nov. 1 will be a demonstration on how to make a beautiful holiday swag to decorate your home.

Need a Garden Talk schedule? Contact Brandie at 585-343-3040, ext. 101.

Future topics and other Master Gardener events will be posted on the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County website at http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/ and also on our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/CCEofGenesee.

Law and Order: Trio charged with jailhouse conspiracy

By Billie Owens

Jonathan David Knauss, 22, of Depot Street, Corfu, is charged with sixth-degree conspiracy. He was arrested at 9 a.m. on Aug. 29 at the Genesee County Jail on West Main Street in Batavia for allegedly conspiring with at least one other person to commit a crime at the jail while being housed there. He was due in City Court this morning to answer the charge. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Christopher Parker, assisted by Genesee County Jail personnel.

Emily Elizabeth Dubois, 19, of Batavia Byron Road, Byron, is charged with sixth-degree conspiracy. She was arrested at 11:34 a.m. on Aug. 27 at the Genesee County Jail on West Main Street in Batavia for allegedly conspiring with an inmate to have another inmate commit a crime. She is due in City Court on Sept. 22 to answer the charge. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Christopher Parker, assisted by Genesee County Jail personnel.

A 17-year-old resident of South Main Street, Batavia, is charged with sixth-degree conspiracy. The subject was arrested at 9 a.m. on Aug. 29 at the Genesee County Jail on West Main Street in Batavia for allegedly conspiring with at least one other person to commit a crime at the jail while being housed there. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Christopher Parker, assisted by Genesee County Jail personnel.

Second annual Elba Hall of Fame Banquet set for Sept. 24 at Batavia Downs

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos.

Press release:

The 2nd annual Elba Hall of Fame Banquet will be held on Sept. 24th at Batavia Downs. Social hour starts at 6 p.m. with dinner at 7.

The 2016 Hall of Fame class inductees are Stan Sherwood, Donald Ames and Robert Norton.

Stan Sherwood:

Sherwood was a Physical Education and Health teacher as well as a coach at Elba Central School for 35 years. He was a great teacher, coach and supporter of all Elba students. He taught young people not only the skills necessary for a particular sport, but more importantly the values required in life to be successful. Sherwood, also an Elba resident, passed away six years after his retirement leading the students of Elba to sign a petition to name the gym after Sherwood, honoring all that he did for the community and student body.  

Donald Ames:

Ames is an alumnus of Elba Central School. He was involved in many school activities while attending Elba such as class officer, student council, athletics and FFA. Ames was Salutatorian of his class and continued on to Alfred State College. He was also a staff sergeant in the National Guard. Ames has helped with Little League, Boy Scouts and sat for numerous years on the Elba Central School Board of Education, as well as serving as president.  

Robert Norton:

Norton is a 1955 graduate of Elba. He has both his master in Education and Ph.D in Agricultural Education from Cornell University. He has been influential in thousands of students’ lives through his additional teaching and curriculum at Ohio State University, where he has served as the curriculum director. Norton has taught seminars all over the world and has trained other teachers as well. He has contributed to the education of Agriculture for thousands.

Last year’s inductees were Dorothy Couglin, Roosevelt Muhammad Brown, Suzi Egeli House, Thomas Nowack and Chester Gabriel.

Tickets are available now through Sept. 21st in the Elba Central School District Office or may be reserved by calling 757-9967. Ticket prices are $30 and include a $10 free play pass to the Batavia Downs Gaming Center.

Dayson dominates in NYSS, Morrill wins five at Batavia Downs

By Billie Owens

(Photo of Dayson with driver Jim Morrill Jr.)

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

He’s diminutive in size but dominant on the track. Dayson ($2.20) came from off the pace and pulled away to a convincing victory in his division of the $119,300 New York Sire Stakes for 3-year-old trotting colts and geldings at Batavia Downs on Wednesday night (Aug. 31).

Off the wings, Allerage Echo (Chris Lems) and The Royal Harry (Oskar Florhed) both left and battled old-school to the quarter in :28 flat before The Royal Harry finally took the lead. Meanwhile Dayson (Jim Morrill Jr.) relaxed in third about eight lengths behind, waiting for the dust to settle. The field remained unchanged to the half but became more closely grouped, nose to tail. 

At the five-eighths pole, Morrill tipped Dayson and asked for more, and more is what he got. He eased past Allerage Echo and snuck up on The Royal Harry as they circled the final turn. When they hit the top of the stretch, Dayson found another gear and he pulled away on his own. Morrill had the whip tucked and the lines in his lap as they crossed the wire a four-length winner in 1:57.3.

“He was very good; nice and strong. He got around the track perfect tonight and didn’t do anything wrong” said winning driver Jim Morrill Jr. “I tipped him up the backside and was hand-wrapped to the wire.”

It was the eighth win in 12 starts this year for Dayson (Conway Hall-Nervey’s Taurus) who now boasts $230,583 in 2016 earnings for owners Burke Racing Stables LLC, Our Horse Cents Stable, J&T Silva Stable LLC and Rossie Smith.

In the other NYSS division, A Jersey Contract ($14.00) pulled the upset after a crafty drive by the Downs leading driver Kevin Cummings that gave him the home-field advantage.

With the scratch of morning line favorite Smalltownthrowdown due to his participation in the $500,000 Yonkers Trot on Saturday, Sir Royson (Jim Marohn Jr.) became the favorite and went off at 1-1. However he also made a break before the gate opened and that immediately made the race interesting. Southern Palms (Jim Morrill Jr.) took full advantage off the gaffe and opened up a three-length lead over pocket-sitting A Jersey Contract going to the quarter. 

(Photo of A Jersey Contract with driver Kevin Cummings.)

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

The field stood pat past the half when That’s A Bad Boy (Tyler Freese) pulled first over with Drazzmatazz (Mark Macdonald) on his helmet. The top four were then grouped two-by-two at three-quarters in 1:28.4. Around the last turn, Drazzmatazz tipped three-wide around That’s A Bad Boy trying to gain on the leader, but A Jersey Contract who had the perfect journey in second, shot up the pylons and collared Southern Palms by a neck in 1:57.4. The time was a new lifetime mark for the winner.

“The race shaped up real well for us. We got a two-hole trip right to the wire and he had a lot of trot sitting in there” said driver Kevin Cummings of A Jersey Contract. “I knew when I got him in the passing lane he’d give me more.”

It was the third win this season for A Jersey Contract (Lucky Chucky-Giza Dream) and it pushed his yearly earnings to $88,574 for owners Tom Vassiliou and Nicholas Tallarico. A Jersey Contract is trained by Maureen Salino.

There were also two divisions of the Excelsior A series on the card.

The first division was won by Credevi (Credit Winner-Fleur De Vie) in 1:58, which was a new lifetime mark. Credevi ($2.30) was driven by Jim Morrill Jr. for owner Wanda Polisseni’s Purple Haze Stable and trainer Trond Smedshammer.

The second leg went to Royal Bachelor (RC Royalty-Becca J) in 1:57.4. Royal Bachelor is trained and driven by Dan Daley and is owned by Ann-Mari Daley, James Crawford IV and Michael White. The winner returned $9.

Jim Morrill Jr. is the leading driver on the New York Sire Stake circuit and also the third leading UDR driver in North America and he showed why on Wednesday as he won five races; three in stake races and two overnighters. His victories included Credevie ($2.30), Dayson ($2.20), Thanks for Playin ($2.60), Terrorcam ($5.10) and Purple N gold ($5.10).

Racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Friday night (Sept. 2) with post time set for 6:15.

Genesee Cancer Assistance awarded $15K in grant funds

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee Cancer Assistance, based in Batavia, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded $15,000 as a part of The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation Funds at the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo 2016 grant disbursement.

Genesee Cancer Assistance is one of 19 organizations from across Western New York that received grants from endowment funds created to carry on Ralph C. Wilson Jr.’s legacy of giving and visionary leadership.

Effective immediately, the organization has plans to increase the amount of financial assistance available to new patients.

“We are both honored and excited that the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation Funds at the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo has chosen Genesee Cancer Assistance as a recipient. This money supports our mission of helping cancer patients in Genesee County and will also allow us to increase public awareness of our services and programs,” said Sue Underwood, GCA executive director. 

The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, a 501(C) (3) organization, was established in 1919 to enhance and encourage long-term philanthropy in the Western New York Community. The Foundation’s mission is: Connecting people, ideas and resources to improve lives in Western New York. For over 95 years, the Community Foundation has made the most of the generosity of individuals, families, foundations and organizations who entrust charitable assets to its care.

The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation established endowments at the Community Foundation in November 2015 to provide support to three areas that were important to Wilson during his lifetime: cancer care, community assets, and youth sports. Endowment funds, like these created to honor Wilson, are designed to grow over time and provide funding for charitable causes according to a client’s wishes. www.cfgb.org.

Genesee Cancer Assistance is a registered 501(c) (3) not-for-profit. It was cofounded in November of 1995 by Dorothy Schlaggel and Russ Romano, both of whom had a desire to create an organization that would help residents in Genesee County facing a cancer diagnosis, by providing financial support and services to lessen the burden that this disease causes. Since opening, GCA has had the opportunity to help more than 1,900 individuals giving out $500,000 of assistance. 

"The organization relies on contributions and memorials as well as local support and board sponsored fundraising events to finance patient reimbursements. Receiving the grant from The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation Funds at the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo will help meet these needs and have a positive impact on the community" said GCA Board President Kevin J. Mudd, MD. 

For more information about Genesee Cancer Assistance, including the specific ways the organization helps cancer patients, please visit the website www.geneseecancerassistance.com, call (585) 345-0417, or stop by, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Please note that our new office is now located on the ground floor of United Memorial Medical Center, 127 North St., directly across the hall from the switchboard near the radiology waiting room.

Gerald R. White

By Billie Owens
Corfu - Gerald R. White, 93, of Corfu, passed away Sunday (August 28, 2016) at the VA WNY Healthcare, Buffalo, NY.
 
Jerry was born October 2, 1922 in Barre, NY, a son of the late Henry F. and Zella L. Behrend White. He was the beloved husband of the late Olvie B. Goodwin White and brother of the late Pearl, Clyde, Betty, Eunice and Don.
 
Jerry was a veteran of the United States Army, serving as a medical technichian during World War II in 5 campaigns in the European-African-Middle Eastern Theater. He was a mechanic for Blue Bus - Empire Trailways in Batavia, prior to his retirement. Jerry was a member of the Cathie-Wild VFW Post 9000 and a past Commander. He was a member of the Corfu United Presbyterian Church for 68 years and a member of the Corfu Senior Citizens. Jerry’s favorite pastime was spending time with his family and gardening. 
 
Surviving are his children, David (Karen) White, Donna (Hugh) Schollard, Diane (Clayton) Fry and Dale (Diane) White; 10 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Norine Leaton and Gladys Janas; 2 sister-in-laws, Joan White and Marjorie Goodwin; a special niece, Jacqueline (Don) Bates and several more nieces and nephews.
 
Family and friends may call Friday, Sept. 2, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the C. B. Beach & Son Mortuary, Inc., 4 E. Main St., Corfu, NY. Funeral services will be held at the mortuary on Saturday, Sept. 3, at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Evergreen Hill Cemetery, Corfu with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Evergreen Hill Cemetery Association, c/o Linda Tucker, 108 E. Main St., Corfu, NY 14036.

56-unit affordable apartment complex officially opened today in Batavia

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The United Memorial Medical Center (UMMC) and Conifer Realty, LLC, joined by local officials and community leaders, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony this morning for a 56-unit apartment community in Batavia. 

Big Tree Glen, located at 3727 W. Main St. Road, offers seven high-quality, two-story buildings featuring one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes for working families earning 60 percent or less of Genesee County’s area median income (“AMI”). Rents range from $569-$916 per month (with a 12-month lease). Apartments range in size from 725 square feet to 1,200 square feet.

James S. Rubin, commissioner of New York State Homes and Community Renewal, said, “Big Tree Glen offers families access to one of the highest-performing districts in Western New York, and is in close proximity to jobs, shopping and services. Affordable housing developments like Big Tree Glen provide greater options and opportunities for residents, and make New York a better place to live and work.”

Daniel P. Ireland, BSN, MBA, FACHE, president for UMMC, said, “Rochester Regional Health Memorial Medical Center supports Big Tree Glen affordable housing. Safe, reliable housing is a major component of healthier communities and this initiative aligns with our vision of leading the evolution of health care to enable every member of the communities we serve to enjoy a better, healthier life. We are excited to see this project develop and reach the completion of this phase.”

Tim Fournier, chairman and CEO of Conifer Realty stated, “Conifer could not accomplish what it has in the affordable housing industry in New York State for the past 40 years without the unwavering support of our state and nonprofit partners, like Rochester Regional’s United Memorial Medical Center.” He added, “Big Tree Glen is evidence that the public-private partnerships and collaborative team efforts yield vital, brand new, affordable homes for so many in Batavia.”

Conifer Realty, LLC, was the developer, the total development costs are in excess of $12 million. Permanent financing sources for the apartment community include a $1,220,000 loan from Community Preservation Corporation; $3,200,000 loan from Bank of America; $382,135 loan from New York State Housing Trust Fund; $7,289,751 Federal Tax Credit Equity from Red Stone Equity Partners; and Bank of America provided a $6,300,000 construction loan.

Conifer is a nationally ranked, full-service real estate company specializing in the development, construction, management and ownership of high-quality, affordable housing communities.

Catholic Charities Home Visitation Program staff member retires after six years

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo.

Press release:

Linda Doll, pictured left, a staff member with Catholic Charities Home Visitation Program in Genesee County, is retiring after six years of dedication to older adults and volunteers. Doll will be missed, especially for the energy, organization and compassion she brought to the program, the people and the volunteers.

The Home Visitation Program, made possible through a grant from the Muriel H. Marshall Fund for the Aging, provides weekly visits to homebound older adults in Genesee County who are 60 years of age or older with a limited ability to get out of their homes. Goals of the visits are to bring a sense of social connectivity and friendship to both the program member and volunteers.

Program volunteers make a weekly visit to the home of an older adult, stay connected with the client's loved ones and help participate in hobbies and crafts. Volunteers often find a rich sense of fulfillment with the knowledge they are reaching out to someone in friendship.

Doll, who is retiring and moving closer to family members, said, “This is the only job I’ve had that I absolutely love! I love hearing the stories our clients have about their lives. It’s such a great feeling to see the happiness in the face of our clients when we match them up with a visitor who really cares about them. There are so many lonely seniors in our county and this program is so worthwhile.”

Indicative of her caring approach was a recent incident that played out the day before Linda was to go on vacation: A volunteer called to say that the senior she visits wasn’t answering her phone. Staff was concerned about the extreme heat of the recent days so Doll quickly said, “I’ll go check on her.” She was about to call 9-1-1 when the door opened. The elderly member was OK but her phone was out of order and, after calling the phone company, it appeared her phone wasn’t working. Because the senior had no one else locally to rely on, Linda went out, purchased a new phone and waited to be sure it was working before returning to complete her own work. 

Doll also praised the volunteers, “We have such wonderful volunteers who give their time and friendship.”

She expressed appreciation for the community partners with whom she has worked. 

“I’ve also enjoyed, and been so grateful for, the opportunity to work with staff at the Office of the Aging, VA Home Based Primary Care Unit, Lifespan, Sage, Handyman and RSVP programs.”  

Home Visitation services are provided free to older adults, along with linkage and referrals to agencies that offer other services. The program has a flexible visitation schedule and all volunteers are screened, trained and supervised. The program also is available in Orleans County.

For more information, to express interest in receiving visits or to learn more about becoming a volunteer in Genesee or Orleans counties, please call (585) 343-0614.

Services for all ages, including individual and family counseling and emergency assistance, are provided in Genesee County at 25 Liberty St., Suite 7, in Batavia. 

As the most comprehensive human service provider in Western New York, Catholic Charities served nearly 132,000 people in need in 2015. For 93 years, Catholic Charities has been making a difference for people of every faith and ethnicity in Western New York. Catholic Charities empowers individuals, children and families to achieve meaningful, healthy and productive lives. Catholic Charities is an excellent steward of the contributions that it receives, attaining the highest rating (four stars) from Charity Navigator and the 2015 Torch Award for Philanthropic Excellence from the Better Business Bureau Foundation of Upstate New York. The agency also receives highest rating from the Council on Accreditation for quality service.

Dayson headlines NYSS trotters at Batavia Downs on Wednesday

By Billie Owens

Photo of Dayson with driver Jim Morrill Jr.

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

On Wednesday night (Aug. 31), the New York Sire Stake 3-year-old colt and gelding trotters will visit Batavia Downs to compete in two divisions for a total of $119,300 in purses and Dayson comes in ready after recent Grand Circuit competition.

Dayson (Conway Hall-Nervey’s Taurus) took on the best male sophomore trotters in North America in his last start when he faced off against Hambletonian champion Marion Marauder and Southwind Frank in the $500,000 Colonial Stake at Pocono Downs. After being parked out half the mile, Dayson finished fifth behind winner Southwind Frank, beaten only three lengths in 1:52.4.

Prior to that start, Dayson strung together three straight wins including a lifetime mark of 1:51.2 at the Meadowlands in the $50,000 Townsend Ackerman Stake. For the year, Dayson has seven wins in eleven starts and $201,033 in the bank. He currently sits second in the points standing for his sex, age and gait.

Trainer Ron Burke has assigned leading NYSS driver Jim Morrill Jr. to steer Dayson in his $59,100 division and they will leave from post three as the prohibitive morning line 6-5 favorite. 

The Royal Harry (RC Royalty-Wilsonator) will be major competition for the favorite after he recently competed in the Hambletonian in August. The Royal Harry faced the best of his class in that race and acquitted himself well, trotting back to back heats race-timed in 1:53 and 1:53.3.

In four NYSS starts this year The Royal Harry has posted two wins and two second-place finishes and that ties him with Dayson for second in overall points. Those starts also helped pad his wallet this year to the tune of $136,283.

Trainer Ake Svanstedt has listed Oskar Florhed to drive The Royal Harry and they will line up in post two as the 2-1 second choice.

In the other $60,200 split, NYSS divisional point’s leader Smalltownthrowdown (Cash Hall-Ann’s Promise) comes into western New York red hot on the heels of two eye-popping victories.

Last week he went wire to wire in 1:56.2 at Monticello Raceway to win by almost nine-lengths and two weeks before that, he won in similar style at Saratoga Raceway in 1:54.4 by five-lengths. That time was also a new lifetime mark. Smalltownthrowdown has five wins in 12 starts this year and $156,795 in earnings.

Trainer/driver Dan Daley will be in his usual spot behind Smalltownthrowdown and depart from post five, listed at 7-5.

Sir Royson (Crazed-Leibovitz Hanover) has had a mixed bag of racing luck of late. A nice 1:56.3 second place effort behind Dayson at Yonkers on July 14 was sandwiched between a break at Buffalo Raceway and one at Saratoga. But after a 10 day sabbatical, Sir Royson qualified in good form at Freehold in 1:59.2 and looks to build on that effort in here.

Sir Royson has three 2016 wins, two in NYSS action and $94,928 in earnings. He took a mark of 1:54 at Tioga Downs back in May.

Trainer Linda Toscano has Jim Marohn Jr. in the sulky and Sir Royson will leave from post two as the 4-1 second choice.

There are also two $15,000 divisions of the Excelsior A series on the program that are carded as race one and two.

Post time for Wednesday’s first race is 6:15 p.m.

Law and Order: Complaint about dirt bike racing on Route 237, Byron, leads to DWI arrest

By Billie Owens

Robert James Moulthrop, 48, Mechanic Street, Byron, is charged with: driving with a BAC of .08 percent or higher; DWI; aggravated unlicensed operation, 3rd; and unlawful operation of an ATV on a public highway. At 8:18 p.m. on Aug. 27, the defendant was arrested on Byron Holley Road in Byron for allegedly driving while intoxicated. The arrest came after an investigation into a traffic offenses complaint of a dirt bike racing up and down Route 237 in the Town of Byron. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Ryan DeLong, assisted by Deputy Chad Cummings.

Corey D. Wilson, 20, of Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. At 2 a.m. on Aug. 28, Batavia police conducted a traffic stop on Oak Street for a speed violation. A vehicle search was conducted and patrols found two male occupants allegedly in possession of two bags of marijuana. Wilson was issued an appearance ticket and he was also cited for the speed violation. Wilson is due in City Court on Sept. 13. The case was investigated by Batavia PoliceOfficer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Maliq N. Douglas, 19, of New Jersey Avenue, Brooklyn, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Douglas was arrested at 2 a.m. on Aug. 28 on Oak Street in Batavia following a traffic stop. A vehicle search was conducted and patrols found two male occupants allegedly in possession of two bags of marijuana. Douglas was processed and released with an appearance ticket to City Court on Sept. 13. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Mitchell Cowen, assisted by Officer Arick Perkins.

Sharon Knaudt, of Batavia, and Michaela Hale, of Oakfield, earn merit awards from SUNY Oswego

By Billie Owens

SUNY Oswego has made merit awards to a select group of area students among the more than 675 transfer students who are starting at the college this fall.

SUNY Oswego's merit awards recognize students' past academic achievements and potential for success. A select group among the more than 675 transfer students received the awards. The Transfer Merit Award is $1,000 and the Transfer Achievement Award is $2,000; for deserving non-New York state students, the total award can be as much as $36,000 or $37,000, respectively, in combination with a Destination Oswego scholarship.

  • Sharon Knaudt, of Summit Street in Batavia, majoring in broadcasting and mass communication, last attended Genesee Community College
  • Michaela J. Hale, of South Pearl Road in Oakfield, majoring in Spanish, last attended Genesee Community College

The awards are part of about $5 million in merit scholarship money offered at SUNY Oswego. These funds are in addition to the more than $80 million in need-based grants, loans, work-study and scholarship awards that SUNY Oswego students receive annually.

A 155-year-old comprehensive college in the State University of New York system, Oswego enrolls about 8,000 students in its College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; School of Business; School of Communication, Media and the Arts; and School of Education.

Visit oswego.edu for more information.

Sleds of Stafford 10th annual Vintage Show is set for Sept. 18, trophy sponsorships wanted

By Billie Owens

Sleds of Stafford Snowmobile Club will host its 10th annual Vintage Snowmobile/Outdoor Show on Sunday, Sept. 18, at BW's Restaurant / DC Meadows Golf Course in Pavilion.

It is located at 11070 Perry Road. The show starts at 10 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m.. It will feature new and used equipment, accessories and trailers. The entrance fee to the show is $3 per person. Door prizes will be announced at 2 p.m.

There will be refreshments available for purchase as well as breakfast and lunch.

Tickets ($5 donation) for Progressive 50/50 raffle and steak dinner will be available at the show and the winner will be drawn at the steak dinner.

This nonprofit, all-volunteer organization is also selling trophy sponsorships to help pay for the show's trophies. They are $35. 

Sleds of Stafford members will be on hand for club membership renewals. Also, a GC DMV rep will be available from noon to 3 p.m. for registration renewals.

For more information, contact Kelly Cordell at 356-9150.

Law and Order: Gilbert Street, Le Roy, man arrested after domestic incident, Batavia woman allegedly struck court-protected person

By Billie Owens

Robert T. Hoffman, 37, of Gilbert Street, Le Roy, was arrested on Aug. 27 by the Le Roy Police Department and charged with: one count of criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation, a Class A misdemeanor; unlawful imprisonment in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor; endangering the welfare of a child, a Class A misdemeanor; and criminal mischief in the fourth degree, a Class A misdemeanor. Hoffman was arrested following a complaint of a domestic incident that occurred in the early hours of the morning. During the altercation Hoffman allegedly held the victim against their will refusing to let them leave, at one point the victim was held by their throat obstructing their ability to breath. Hoffman also prevented the victim from calling 9-1-1, preventing them from requesting emergency assistance. All this took place in front of a child under the age of 17. Hoffman was arraigned and jail in lieu of $10,000 bail. Hoffman is to return to the Le Roy Town Court on Sept. 6.

Katelyn M. Hall, 22, of Hutchins Street, Batavia, was arrested at 2:20 a.m. on Aug. 28 and charged with first-degree criminal contempt -- violation of an order of protection, physical contact. Hall allegedly pushed and struck another individual who was the protected party of an active order of protection. She was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and held on no bail. Hall was due in Batavia City Court earlier this afternoon. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk.

Alex Isaac, 27, of Hutchins Place, Batavia, is charged with third-degree criminal mischief -- damage to another's property exceeding $250. Isaac was arrested at 3:15 a.m. on Aug. 28 following an incident wherein he allegedly damaged headlights and taillights of a car belonging to another person on Hutchins Street. Isaac was located at an acquaintance's residence on Thorpe Street. Isaac was taken into custody without incident, issued an appearance ticket and released. Isaac is due in City Court on Aug. 30. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Frank Klimjack, assisted by Officer Marc Lawrence.

Timothy J. Wood Sr., 27, of South Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property, 5th. He was arrested at 4:14 p.m. on Aug. 25 on South Main Street in Batavia after being located allegedly riding a bicycle that had been reported stolen earlier in the day. He was processed, released on an appearance ticket and is due in City Court on Sept. 13. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Mitchell Cowen, assisted by Officer Jamie Givens.

Gina L. Avino, 41, of Haven Lane, Batavia, was arrested at 11:50 p.m. on Aug. 26 on Walnut Street, Batavia, after allegedly refusing to leave a residence despite being told to do so several times. Avino was issued a computer-generated appearance ticket and release. Avino is due in City Court on Sept. 6. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Pater Flanagan, assisted by Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk.

Russell Scott Neureuther, 18, of Pratt Road, Batavia, is charged with disorderly conduct. He was arrested at 7:39 p.m. on Aug. 26 following the investigation of a disorderly conduct complaint on Colby Road in the Town of Darien. Neureuther was allegedly found to be highly intoxicated by alcohol and walking in the road, obstructing traffic. He was arraigned and put in Genesee County Jail in lieu of $200 cash bail. He is due in Darien court on Sept. 6. The case was handled by Sheriff's deputy Sgt. Jason Saile, assisted by Chief Deputy Gordon Dibble.

David A. Stanton, 32, of Union Church Road, Franklin, is charged with: aggravated unlicensed operation, 3rd; operating a motor vehicle with suspended registration; and operating a motor vehicle without insurance. At about 6:18 p.m. on Aug. 27, a Genesee County Sheriff's Office patrol reported that a vehicle with a suspended registration was traveling north on Ellicott Street Road toward the City of Batavia. Batavia police located the vehicle on Oak Street and confirmed the suspended registration and initiated a traffic stop. Stanton was found to be operating the vehicle with suspended registration and with no insurance in effect. He was arrested and paid $200 police bail and was issued traffic tickets. Stanton is scheduled to be in City Court on Sept. 21. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Orientations scheduled for BHS freshmen and transfer students & parents

By Billie Owens

Batavia High School will host a brief parent orientation for parents of incoming freshmen and transfer students new to the High School at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 31.

Parents will have the opportunity of meeting available staff and administration who will introduce parents to BHS policies, programs and expectations. All first-time BHS parents will find this informational session helpful in transitioning their child to the High School. This is also an opportunity for parents who once again have a student at BHS to learn about any new changes.

Link Crew Day 1 for Freshmen Students Only

Thursday, Sept. 1, @ 8 - 11:30 a.m.

Batavia High School will host a Link Crew Day 1 for freshmen students only on Thursday, Sept. 1st from 8 - 11:30 a.m. Incoming freshmen and pre-approved Link Leaders will be the only students attending school on this day.  Upperclassmen need not attend school on Sept. 1st as incoming freshmen will be participating in freshmen transition activities. Link Crew is based upon a simple concept: linking freshmen with successful upperclassmen. While creating a sense of comfort for incoming students, the Link Crew concept also addresses the attitudes of upperclassmen toward freshmen and respect for freshmen becomes the norm.  

Schools today are different than ever before, as are students, families and communities. The transition from middle school to high school is one of the most difficult ones young people face, expectations are greater and schools are larger. Research has shown that if a student makes it successfully through his/her first year of high school, he or she will have “made it,” and he/she can be expected to graduate. With this in mind, Link Crew has been developed as a program to help students make the transition with specific intervention and support from older peers. 

Link Crew Day 2 for Freshmen & Transfer Students Only

Wednesday, Sept. 7, @ 8 - 11:30 a.m.

Batavia High School will host a Link Crew Day 2 for freshmen and any transfer students new to Batavia High School on Wednesday, Sept. 7th from 8 - 11:30 a.m. These students will once again participate in various activities using the Link Crew transition program. Upperclassmen should not attend as freshmen and transfer students will get to do a walk-through of their schedule, meet their teachers, and will get acclimated to their lockers and lunch routines.   

There is no school for faculty and students on Monday, Sept. 5th in observance of Labor Day. Tuesday, Sept. 6th is a Superintendent’s Conference Day for all district faculty and staff. The morning of Wednesday, Sept. 7th is Link Crew Day 2 for freshmen and transfer students only.

The first day of classes for ALL BHS students is Thursday, Sept 8th.

Anyone with questions is asked to contact the BHS Counseling Center at 343-2480, ext. 2002.

Pablo wins the 'Dachshund Dash' at Batavia Downs

By Billie Owens

(Photos courtesy of Paul White.)

Above, winning wiener dog, Pablo, with owner Adrienne Penders.

Above, the crowd packed the spectator area at Sunday's Wiener Dog Races at Batavia Downs and free bottles of cold water helped them beat the heat.

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

The centerpiece of Batavia Downs Family Fun Day on Sunday (Aug. 28) was the annual Wiener Dog Races and this year, 2,400 live patrons came out to watch a great program of live harness racing while anticipating the nine qualifying wiener heats that followed.

After the qualifying events were held and the final field was set, nine dogs went postward in the two-pylon sprint as the rail trackside was literally five-deep with spectators.

Track announcer Joe Zambito gave the word and they released the hounds for the race. After the pack thundered down the stretch and the dust had settled, Pablo was a convincing winner, with Nibbles beating out Minnie in a close photo for second.

It was the third time Pablo had competed in this event and the third time was a charm for him and his owner.

“He’s always been competitive and always done well in the race, but he never won it,” said Pablo’s owner Adrienne Penders. “This year he finally got it done.”

Nibbles is owned by Tammy Anderson; and Minnie is owned by Lori Laine.

Last year’s champion Piglet, won his qualifying heat this afternoon but failed to hit the board in the final despite a hearty attempt.

"Once again, Family Fun Day was a great success" said Todd Haight, director/general manager of Live Racing. "The stands were full with kids of all ages and everyone had a great time at Batavia Downs. The wiener dogs put on another great show and we would like to thank everyone who brought their dogs out to compete and to Genesee Feeds of Batavia who sponsors the event every year." 

Each of the nine qualifying heat winners received a $25 free play voucher to Batavia Downs Gaming. The winning owner of the final was presented a $100 free play voucher, the second-place finisher received $75 in free play, and the third-place finisher will enjoy $50 in free play. All three owners will also get two complimentary buffets each in the Batavia Downs clubhouse.

The 2-9-3 doggie-tri combination was reported to return 25 Milk-Bones among trackside punters.

Kevin Cummings wins five at Batavia Downs

By Billie Owens

(Photo of Kevin Cummings courtesy of Paul White.)

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

The weather wasn’t the only thing that was hot at Batavia Downs on Sunday afternoon (Aug. 28), Kevin Cummings was as well. The Downs leading driver who is currently sporting 37 wins at the meet reached that total on the strength of today’s performance.

Cummings won with Windemere Maggie ($4.20) and Ona Dream ($7.20) to complete the early Daily double ($24.60). After that, he finished the card scoring with Sea Deuce ($4.10), Lexis Amigo (5.40) and B Evas Lucky Lad ($8.60).

Cummings third winner, Sea Deuce, took the afternoon’s $7,200 feature pace in 1:56.3. Sea Deuce went wire to wire in victory, coming home strong in :28.2 to hold of the pocket sitting Mystical Valentine (Jack Flanigen) in the process. It was the sixth win of the year for the 6-year-old gelded son of Armbro Deuce that is owned by Cummings and trained by Priscilla Mooney.

Not to be outdone, Dave McNeight III (who is currently second is dash wins behind Cummings) and Ray Fisher Jr. also reached the winner’s enclosure twice.

Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Wednesday night (Aug. 31) at 6:15 p.m. and will feature two divisions of the New York Sires Stake 3-year-old trotting colts and geldings who will vie for $119,300 in purses. 

Milliron Pete wires foes in Batavia Downs pacing feature

By Billie Owens

(Photo of Milliron Pete with driver Ron Beback Jr.)

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Milliron Pete made his local debut for new connections last week after 19 days off and experienced an off-track and road trouble for his effort. But the Northfield Park invader more than made up for that outing on Saturday night (Aug. 27) when he won the $10,000 Open pacing feature at Batavia Downs in convincing fashion.

With the scratch of Heaven Rocks, the abbreviated field of five departed the gate with Milliron Pete (Ron Beback Jr.) scooting right to the front. Everyone stood pat until the three-eighths when the 2-5 favorite Knocking Around (Dave McNeight III) pulled first up as they hit the half in a meager :58 flat.

Positions remained unchanged as the group circled the final two turns with Knocking Around just outside the flank of the front-running Milliron Pete. And despite his best effort to collar the leader down the lane, Knocking Around could not as Milliron Pete held fast and paced home in :28.1 to win by a long-length in 1:54.4. Knocking around toughed out the place spot while China Dream (Jack Flanigen) came from mid-pack for third.

It was the ninth win of the year for Milliron Pete ($20.40) and the winner’s share of the purse pushed his annual income to $60,315. Milliron Pete is owned Elm Racing and is trained by Ron Beback Jr.

Saturday turned out to be long-shot night at the Downs led off by Green Olives ($53) winning the second race and triggering a $305 Exacta (8-5), $1,662 Trifecta (8-5-3) and $4,220.50 Super (8-5-3-2). Then in the third, Kashability ($21.00) spurred a $621 Exacta (3-8) and a $2,712 Trifecta (3-8-5). 

Ray Fisher Jr. scored three wins on the card while Kevin Cummings followed up with two.

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