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Batavia Career and Tech Education Center students attend conference on health occupations

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo. Front row, from left: Kaitlin Laird, Nina Searchfield, Rebecca Reamer, Jaclyne Passage, Victoria Welka, Zoe Falsone, and Kayle MacIntyre. Back row, from left: Samantha Siple, Ashley Brady, Ashley Chapman, Nicholas Lathrop, and Stephen Gass.

Press release:

Batavia Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center students attended the New York State Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) Spring Leadership Conference in Liverpool, New York on April 13-15.

Zoë Falsone (Attica) and Jaclyne Passage (Le Roy) completed their 2015-2016 terms as senior vice president, parliamentarian and Region E vice president for New York State HOSA. Zoë participated in two events, Job Seeking Skills and Home Health Aid, and earned a Bronze Medal in Home Health Aid.  

Jaclyne participated in Job Seeking Skills where she earned a Silver Medal. She also presented with Rebecca Reamer (Pavilion) in the Medical Innovations event and was awarded a Silver Medal. Their topic was Human Head Transplant. In preparation for this event, Jaclyne and Rebecca worked with the Batavia CTE Computer Information Systems (CIS) students and Maggie Poray, CIS instructor, to design and create 3-D head models to use during their presentation.

Rebecca Reamer and Ashley Chapman (Caledonia-Mumford) chose Medical Photography Rebecca focused on dentistry pictures and Ashley focused on Emergency Medical Services utilizing friends and family from her local fire department.  Ashley took the Health Issues Exam, and qualified for national competition.

Samantha Siple (Caledonia-Mumford) participated in Home Health Aid and Job Seeking Skills and earned leadership skills.

Nina Searchfield (Caledonia-Mumford) received a silver medal in Nurse Assisting. Nina also presented with her partner Ashley Brady (Attica) in Health Careers Display. Their topic of choice was midwifery. Previous to the competition, these two students spent time at United Memorial Medical Center (UMMC) on the maternity floor during their clinical rotations through the Health Dimensions program. 

Victoria Welka (Byron-Bergen) and Kaylee McIntyre chose to show their artistic skills in Extemporaneous Health Poster. Kaylee earned a Bronze Medal for her artistic creation. She also created a chapter poster, which earned the New York State HOSA Chapter poster winner for 2016. Kaylee was chosen as the New York State HOSA 2016-2017 Region E vice president.

Kaitlin Laird (Batavia) competed in the Extemporaneous Writing event. She campaigned for a position as a New York HOSA State Officer, was elected and will serve as the senior vice president for the 2016-2017 term.

Stephen Gass (Pembroke) and Nicholas Lathrop (Attica) both performed well in the Personal Care category. Nicholas earned two Gold Medals in both Interviewing Skills and Speaking Skills. His topic was Innovate, Inspire, and Ignite. Nicholas was so stunned that he received two Gold Medals that his classmates needed to repeat that he had won first place again. Stephen looked at Bonny Shelby, his instructor, and said, “This makes me realize I can do anything!”

Three students, Nina Searchfield, Zoë Falsone and Kaitlin Laird, earned achievement awards at the conference. The Batavia CTE Center HOSA Chapter won the T-shirt and trading pin design contest for 2016. The submission was used for T-shirts that were provided to all participants at the Spring Leadership Conference. The design was made into a trading pin that will be distributed in June at the National Leadership Conference.

Zoë Falsone, Ashley Chapman, Jaclyne Passage, Kaylee MacIntyre, Nina Searchfield, Rebecca Reamer, Nicholas Lathrop, Stephen Gass, and Ashley Brady are eligible for participation at the HOSA National Leadership Conference in Nashville, Tennessee in June.

Four students from the Batavia CTE Center have been inducted as the New York State HOSA Officers. Rebecca Reamer -- President; Kaitlin Laird -- Senior Vice President; Kaylee Mac Intyre -- Secretary; Victoria Welka -- Region E Vice President. These four young women will attend the officer Summer Leadership Academy in Albany in June.

Four students from the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership Adult Education LPN/CNA Program also attended the conference and participated in the Knowledge Tests. Jessica Newton won a gold medal in Human Growth and Development; Aimee Donohue received a Silver Medal in the Behavioral Health; Leanne King won a Silver Medal in Medical Law and Ethics and a Bronze Medal in Pathophysiology.

The Batavia Career and Technical Education Center is a program of the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership. The Partnership operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties in New York State. 

Free technology help sessions offered every fourth Tuesday night at Corfu library

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Residents with questions about their smart phones, laptop computers, tablets, computer programs, or an app can bring them to a Technology Tuesday at the Corfu Free Library for answers.These monthly hands-on help sessions are held every 4th Tuesday of the month from 7 to 8 p.m.

Electronic devices are becoming an essential way to shop, find information, enjoy reading and be entertained, and with the new digital services offered by the library, learning how to use them is more important than ever.

“The library isn’t just about books and magazines anymore,” says Diana Reding, director at the Corfu Free Library. “There are a large number of free eBooks, music albums, TV shows, movies and comic books available via digital download that are now part of the services we offer.

"All patrons need is their library card to be able to use and enjoy them. We have both free WiFi and computer workstations at the library. Better still is when folks bring in their own devices to learn on them right here during a Technology Tuesday."

Reding, and Kristie Miller, president of the Board of Directors and a librarian at the Alexander Central School District, Julie Hengenius, board secretary and librarian at Pembroke School District, will also be at the library to assist patrons at the Technology Tuesday sessions.

Interested residents are encouraged to bring in their own devices such as an iPhone, Kindle, Nook, iPad, flash drive, or laptop computer (including charging cords) and ask questions about them.

Residents can even learn to download a wide variety of digital items from Hoopla as well as eBooks from Overdrive and eMagazines from Zinio right at the sessions. These electronic download services provided through the Nioga Library System, are free to library patrons.

In addition to Technology Tuesdays, there are some short instructional videos explaining how to use Hoopla, one of the digital services available at the library, and Gmail on the Corfu Free Library’s website. “We will be adding more ‘How To’ videos through the year on our Web site,” adds Reding. “And we are always here to answer questions about the services our patrons can access through the library.”

The Corfu Free Library periodically offers sessions like Technology Tuesdays and residents are encouraged to check the library’s Web site at www.CorfuFreeLibrary.org, stop by 7 Maple Ave. in Corfu for program information, or they can call the library at (585) 599-3321.

GCC baseball player Barleben signs with Ashland University

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee Community College baseball pitcher and outfielder Connor Barleben (Albion) has committed to Ashland University (OH) after signing a National Letter of Intent with the Eagles to continue his academic and athletic career beginning in the fall.

Barleben has played in 66 games during his season-plus career at GCC and compiled a .354 batting average with 73 total hits, 10 of them homeruns, and 43 runs batted in. On the mound, the sophomore has made 14 appearances (10 starts), pitching to a 4-7 overall record with 49 strikeouts and a 5.45 earned run average.

Ashland is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II member school and competes in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Association (GLIAC). The Eagles are coached by John Schaly, currently in his 19th season with the program.

So far this spring, Barleben is batting .355 with 22 runs scored, 20 runs batted in, and four homeruns in 30 games. The Cougars are 6-25 overall and 2-4 in Region III play.

Barleben will receive a scholarship to attend Ashland University.

Genesee Community College athletics program endeavors to provide a quality and competitive intercollegiate athletics program consistent with the National Junior Collegiate Athletics Association (NJCAA) philosophy and the overall educational mission of Genesee Community College. Participation in collegiate athletics should be an extension of the total educational experience for the student athlete. The inherent philosophy emphasizes the athletic setting as a classroom used to teach character, commitment, work ethic, respect for differences, and the importance of sacrifice, teamwork, and cooperation.

For further information and pictures go to Genesee's Athletic Web page, which is updated regularly with game results, team rosters, photographs and information about Genesee's overall athletic program -- http://www.geneseeathletics.com

Rochester inmate in county jail faces new charges, including two felonies for allegedly selling crack

By Billie Owens

Jerry Riley III

Press release from the Genesee County Sheriff's Office:

The Genesee County Local Drug Enforcement Task Force, comprised of officers from the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, Batavia Police NET officers, and the Le Roy Village Police Department, concluded as investigation into the illegal sales of narcotics from a Bank Street residence in the City of Batavia with the arrest of a Rochester man on Wednesday afternoon.

Jerry Riley III, 38, of Jay Street, Rochester is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, 3rd, a Class B felony, and two counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance, 3rd, also a Class B felony.

He is already in custody at the Genesee County Jail from an incident that occurred in the city earlier this month and has now been charged with four additional felony charges this afternoon stemming from the sales of "crack" cocaine in the city in March.

Riley is in jail with $2,000 of additional bail.

For initial post on Riley, click here.

President of Batavia school board honored by WNY Educational Service Council

By Billie Owens

Batavia City School District Board of Education President Pat Burk, right, is congratulated by Superintendent of Schools Christopher Dailey for receiving an Award for Excellence from the Western New York Educational Service Council.

Submitted photo. Press release:

To say that Patrick Burk is a champion of students and school staff gives new meaning to the word “understatement.” That sentiment was recognized recently by the Western New York Educational Service Council in presenting him with a 2016 Award for Excellence in the category of Board Member.

A graduate of nearby Caledonia-Mumford Central School and resident of Batavia for more than 35 years, Burk has been a Batavia City School District Board of Education member for 30 years and served as the Board’s president 10 different times, including presently. Most recently, he was key to starting a recognition program that highlights outstanding students, staff, and community volunteers at each Board meeting, and was quintessential in establishing the Batavia City School District Education Foundation. 

“Mr. Burk is the backbone of our district,” says Superintendent of Schools Christopher Dailey. “He is our greatest cheerleader, advocate, and friend.”

Burk says, “I know that we have a solid District and I am extremely proud to be a part of it. I am pleased with our outcomes and see a tremendous amount of positive results from our students. I also am champion of our staff. I believe that they are excellent and I see that they work hard to obtain the positive outcomes.”

In addition to his work for the Batavia schools, Burk also has served on the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership board for the last three years, is a delegate to New York State School Boards Association, and, as he has for the past 10 of 12 years, serves as the president of the Genesee Valley School Boards Institute. He is also a longtime supporter of and volunteer for the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership program, and is the executive director and artistic director of the Batavia Players. Previously, he has served on the GO ART! Board of Directors and the Batavia Youth Center Board of Directors.

Though his record of community service is lengthy, his longest Board affiliation is with the Batavia City School District.

“Being a Board member allows me to contribute to the education of our young people,” says Burk. “It is the most important investment we can make. It also allows me to be a part of a successful District. I have enjoyed my involvement with the Batavia City School District and I do want to continue that involvement.”

Says Dailey, “He deserves to be recognized for his selfless dedication to public education in the Batavia City Schools."

Batavia student receives award at Ithaca College symposium

By Billie Owens

Kaitlyn Logsdon, of Batavia, received an award at the 2016 James J. Whalen Academic Symposium at Ithaca College.

A total of 420 students participated by giving oral presentations or displaying posters and other creative works. Award winners were selected from a pool of 60 finalists.

Logsdon's presentation was entitled, "The Paradox of Sustainability and the Global Betterment Imperative."

Newest Byron-Bergen Hall of Fame inductees to be honored tonight

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Tonight, Byron-Bergen Central School honors the two newest inductees into its Hall of Fame. Judy (Hulburt) Holly (Class of 1976) and Amy (Seward) Stacy (Class of 1980) join the ranks of other distinguished Byron-Bergen alumni honored with a place in the Hall of Fame for their achievements after graduation.

The Byron-Bergen Alumni Hall of Fame recognizes the accomplishments of the district’s graduates, providing young people of our district with positive adult role models, showing that graduates of Byron-Bergen can achieve high levels of accomplishment in their lives.  This honor is in its 13th year and has become part of our school district culture and a permanent reminder to our students about the outcome of hard work and diligence.

The 2016 inductees will be honored on tonight at the school at 7 o'clock. Each will briefly speak to students and receive their B-B Alumni Hall of Fame plaques at the Sr. National Honor Society induction ceremony. They spent the day visiting with Byron-Bergen students and sharing how their school experience influenced their lives.

During her years at Byron-Bergen, Judy (Hulburt) Holly (shown left) participated in National Honor Society, Student Council, Spanish Club, and Ski Club. She attended Russell-Sage College (1976-77) for Physical Therapy during 1976-77 and then transferred to SUNY Brockport and earned a bachelor’s degree in Nursing in 1980.

After college graduation, Holly was employed as a nurse at Highland Hospital (Rochester), working on a medical floor then transferring to labor and delivery. She worked there until she started her family.

Holly has stated that her greatest achievement is her family. She is married to a wonderful man; together they are parents of six children, and have two grandchildren.

She and her husband are foster parents (through Monroe County) and have fostered 50 foster babies (so far), many of whom are medically fragile infants.

Holly has dedicated herself to helping children, most of whom are unable to care for themselves and in need special attention, demonstrating the utmost compassion.

Holly is an excellent role model and source of inspiration to the youth of Byron-Bergen.

While attending Byron-Bergen, Amy (Seward) Stacy (pictured above) participated in Volleyball (MVP her senior year), Basketball, Chorale, Band, Spanish Club, National Honor Society, Student Council, Drama Club, AFS, was a Peer Counselor, First Presbyterian Church youth group, and a teacher for Vacation Bible School.

She earned several scholarships and awards upon graduation.

After high school, she earned a bachelor’s degree in 1984 from Cornell University in Nutrition, and a master’s degree from SUNY Brockport in Health Education in 1989. Stacy is a registered dietitian, certified diabetes educator, certified dietitian/nutritionist, and certified pump trainer.

She has worked for the WIC Program, Lakeside Memorial Hospital, Strong’s Cardiac Rehab Program, and Lakeside Memorial’s Wellness Center.

Currently, Stacy works for Rochester Regional Health System (Unity Diabetes Program in Brockport) and is the sole proprietor for Innovative Nutrition by Amy.

Awards include Who’s Who in Diabetes Education and the Healthy Heart Contributor Award. She also received a New York State grant for nutrition education. Memberships include the American Diabetes Association, American Association of Diabetes Educators, Rochester Association of Diabetes Educators, American Dietetic Association/Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Genesee Dietetic Association, and Bergen Evangelical Presbyterian Church.

She is an active community member who is involved in her church (Sunday school teacher, Vacation Bible School, worship team), and numerous activities within the Bergen area. Stacy stated her greatest achievement has been to raise four wonderful children with her husband, Rick, and being grandparents.

Involved in her community and through her faith, Stacy inspires the youth of the Byron-Bergen community.

Le Royan named Liberty League Field Rookies of the Week

By Billie Owens

Rebecca Schwan, of Le Roy, a member of the RIT women's track and field team, was named Liberty League Field Rookie of the Week for the week ending April 17. It is the fourth honor of the year for Schwan.

Schwan just missed breaking a school record in the 1,500-meters, placing ninth overall in a time of 4:42.94 at the Bison Outdoor Classic hosted by Division I Bucknell University. On Sunday, she was RIT's top finisher in the 800-meters with a time of 2:18.77.

Basom resident to compete in national rock climbing competition

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Andrew Lipnicky, of Basom, from the RIT Rock Climbing Team, will compete in national competition Friday and Saturday at the Collegiate Climbing Series in San Diego, Calif.

Lipnicky is a Ph.D. student in the Astrophysical Sciences and Technology program.

Nearly 400 athletes from approximately 40 colleges will participate in various competitions, including speed, bouldering and sport climbing.

The team is coming off of a first-place overall victory in Northeast regional competition earlier this month in Albany, against teams from New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

Le Royan receives award for academic excellence at SUNY Oneonta

By Billie Owens

Jacquelyn Carson, of Le Roy, has received the 2015-2016 Susan Sutton Smith Award for academic excellence at SUNY Oneonta. To be eligible for the award, a student must be a freshman, sophomore or junior with a grade-point average of 3.9 or higher.

Carson, a junior majoring in Early Childhood/Childhood Ed (B-6), received a certificate, a gift card to the campus bookstore, and an invitation to attend the annual Susan Sutton Smith Lecture and reception. Susan Bernardin, Ph.D., professor of English at SUNY Oneonta, delivered this year's lecture on April 12 in the Craven Lounge of the college's Morris Conference Center. Bernardin is the 22nd recipient of the Susan Sutton Smith Faculty Prize for Academic Excellence, created to recognize faculty achievement outside the classroom and named in memory of the late SUNY Oneonta professor of English.

The lecture and the Susan Sutton Smith Awards for academic excellence were made possible by the generous gifts of SUNY Oneonta alumni to the 2015-2016 Fund for Oneonta. The Susan Sutton Smith Faculty Prize for Academic Excellence was made possible by an endowment created through the generosity of Dr. Thomas and Mrs. Mary Smith in memory of their daughter, Susan, and in honor of her commitment to academic excellence.

A liberal arts institution with a strong focus on undergraduate research and service learning, SUNY Oneonta consistently gains recognition for delivering excellence and value.

Hawley sends letter to Assembly speaker calling for 'Two New Yorks Legislation'

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) said today that he is tired of the Legislature providing a disproportionate amount of aid to New York City, and showing a blatant disregard for the needs of Upstate New Yorkers.

Hawley wrote to Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie asking him to bring the Two New Yorks legislation to the floor and allow a vote to gauge public opinion on the issue. The bipartisan, nonbinding measure would be an important step toward understanding whether New Yorkers feel that the amount of aid allocated upstate and the amount sent downstate is equitable.

“In the eyes of the Legislature, NYC and its welfare policies take precedence over upstate businesses and taxpayers,” Hawley said. “I have introduced legislation that will simply gauge the interest of New Yorkers in a nonbinding way.

"For instance, the battle over minimum wage and the implications it would have on farmers and upstate small businesses was completely overlooked by our downstate counterparts. Such disconnect has been present for many years, which is why this legislation is long overdue.”

Here's the letter Hawley sent to the Assembly Speaker:

Dear Speaker Heastie:

I respectfully urge you to report Assembly Bill 4167 out of the Local Governments Committee to allow a full vote on the Assembly Floor. As you may know, A.4167 would allow voters to vote yes or no in a nonbinding referendum to indicate their preferences on whether New York should be divided into two states.

I believe that Upstate and Downstate New York citizens have differing needs, wants, and desires regarding legislation and budgetary requirements. Upstate citizens are representative of less urban and more rural values, while Downstate citizens tend to be more city oriented. There are also distinct social and political differences. Upstate citizens are more reflective of conservative to moderate traits while Downstate citizens are reflective of moderate to liberal traits. In light of the fact that there is a philosophical view of the SAFE Act dividing Upstate and Downstate, now again, we have seen a division with the two minimum wages. It is apparent that now would be the perfect opportunity to take up my legislation and allow a referendum for citizens to indicate their preferences.

Again, I urge you to assist in reporting this piece of legislation out of committee so that the people of this great State are able to indicate their views. After all, isn’t this what being a representative is all about – actually finding out what constituents’ viewpoints are on issues affecting their lives as New Yorkers? Please contact me with any questions or concerns you have regarding this bill. Let the people’s voice be heard.

Rochester man arrested for crashing into Oakfield 7-Eleven Tuesday

By Billie Owens

Press release from the Genesee County Sheriff's Office:

The Genesee County Sheriff's Office investigated a motor-vehicle accident at the 7-Eleven convenience store on South Main Street in Oakfield on April 19 at about 2 p.m.

A motor vehicle crashed into the south wall of the store and immediately fled the scene. The vehicle was later found on Townline Road in Byron occupied by a male operator. The male was identified at Hicham Fathallah, 34, of Rochester. He was charged with leaving the scene of a motor-vehicle accident and inadequate brakes.

He is to appear in the Town of Oakfield Court at a later date and time.

For initial post, click here.

GCC Vet Tech seniors spent spring break at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo

By Billie Owens

Press release:

As Genesee Community College's director of Veterinary Technology, Carrie Caccamise seeks to expose her students to as many facets of the profession as possible. Students in the program work with animals of all sizes in the current curriculum, but they have little exposure to marine life or zoo animals.

"While at a conference last summer, I voiced this concern to a colleague," Caccamise said. "He suggested that I reach out to Ray Ball at the Tampa Zoo, so I did."

Ball, director of Medical Services at the Lowry Park Zoo in Tampa, Florida, welcomed Caccamise and her students to travel down to the Sunshine State and observe the zoo's day-to-day dealings with its resident animals during the College's spring break from March 12-19. After a flurry of fundraising, Caccamise and a group of eight GCC seniors flew to Tampa to begin the week-long, behind-the-scenes observation and experience that was a first for the College's Vet Tech program.

"Though the students were unable to restrain or perform procedures due to safety concerns, they were still able to learn a great deal as the veterinarians and veterinary technicians explained everything they did and patiently answered all of our questions," Caccamise said.

While at the Tampa Zoo, the students observed exams and treatments on many animals including a penguin, a two-toed sloth, a spur fowl, white and black rhinos, a pig, tortoises, a screech owl and elephants. Animals used in the Zoo's outreach program including armadillos, tortoises and pythons had wellness exams performed during the week. The exams involved anesthesia, radiographs, ultrasound exams and blood draws. Since these animals are not as friendly as most dogs and cats, the students were able to observe the different techniques for handling and administration of anesthesia during the examinations.

When the students were asked to summarize their experiences, these were among statements they shared: "It was a once in a life time experience." "The vets and technicians were extremely friendly. Even the zookeepers were very helpful in teaching us." "It was an awesome trip. Dr. Ball was so friendly and open to helping us learn." "Mind blowing experience!" 

The students also took a trip to the Florida Aquarium to observe exams on horseshoe crabs, eels, stingrays, otters and sea turtles, and a stop at the Marine Mammal Pathobiology Lab to see necropsies on two manatees.

"We were all very impressed with the amount of data collection that occurs in zoos such as the Lowry Park Zoo," Caccamise said. "The data collected is what helps the animals' counterparts in the wild stay healthy."

Housed at the Lowry Park Zoo is a manatee hospital, one of few sites in Florida that rehabilitate injured or sick manatees. During their stay, GCC's vet tech students also witnessed the treatment of an injured female manatee and her calf. Since adult manatees can weigh up to 1,200 pounds, the students saw the difficult process of getting the animals from the truck they were transported in, to the tank where they will live during their rehabilitation. They also witnessed the end result of the process, experiencing the release of a manatee that was rehabilitated at the hospital and deemed healthy enough to return to the wild.

The group received funding for the trip from Academic Innovations at GCC which contributed $1,000 and the Christina Salvador Scholarship Fund, which pitched in $500. Funds were also raised through the Vet Tech Club at the College and each student did their part to help pay for the trip.

Four students recognized in GCC's 15th annual Poetry Contest

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Like most libraries, Alfred C. O'Connell Library at Genesee Community College has books on shelves, computer workstations quietly humming, and people absorbed in their studies, projects and research. But, Thursday, April 14th, GCC's esteemed Library gave life to written prose through the 15th annual Student Poetry Contest Award Ceremony. 

The First Prize -- Body of Work winner is Catherine McCabe-Strong. She lives and works in Rochester and is studying in GCC's Paralegal Studies program. She was drawn to GCC because the courses looked both interesting and challenging. She said, "In my creative writing, I draw inspiration from the Imagist movement started by Ezra Pound in 1912. His three main tenets were to treat the object of the poem directly, to not waste a single word, and to use the musicality of phrases, rather than force meter. These are all things that I take to heart when writing." She has a novel, "Julius Constantine Chang," available through Amazon. And later this month, a very short piece of her prose, "Teatime," will be published by The Flash Fiction Press on their Web site, theflashfictionpress.org. Her poems are "Clementine," "Clovelly Beach" and "Night."

Second Prize winner for her poem "Fly" is Amanda Sterzick. She is a self-described late blooming artist. She found her talent late in life and has experimented and self-taught herself in several different mediums. She is a Digital Art major and decided to attend GCC because she wanted to learn how to create art in the digital medium. Her poetry is a physical manifestation of her emotions. She said, "Pain, amusement, anger, joy, rage and sometimes inspiration just take me and I can't do anything else until my poetry OCD is satiated." She writes a lot of poetry and has several versions of her poem "Fly," noting that the last three lines change the most. She is an Honors Program student and plans to graduate with an Honors Diploma after the fall 2016 semester and then continue to pursue her studies. She has artwork that she has created to accompany this poem -- a mixed media canvas, and Professor Pam Swarts would like her to include the poem in the digital art show and create a digital composition for the poem. Amanda resides in Batavia.

Third place winner for her poem "Delayed Ambition" is Maureen Moriarty, an administrative assistant major at GCC. She has dabbled in poetry most of her life and enjoys going to poetry readings. Maureen resides in Medina. 

Honorable Mention honors go to Jennifer Hanson, a student from Arcade. Her poem is entitled "Open Road." In her spare time, she plays the cello, paints, draws and writes. She comes from a large family and has two brothers and two sisters. She is attending GCC because it is very cost effective and a good stepping stone and she wasn't quite sure of her major when she started. She is now a Fine Arts major, and her favorite courses have been painting classes taught by Heather Jones. She writes poetry usually at the end of the day, and prefers to write in a journal and then type out the poem if she wants to share it. She says, "I feel like putting pen to paper is a better artistic process for me than typing." 

Winning poems are posted on the library Web page: http://www.genesee.edu/library/about-the-library/poetry-contests/.

Judges for this year's contest were: Mary Jane Heider, Sarah Karas, Bob Knipe, Michelle Salvia, Jim Simon and Nina Warren. More than 50 poems were submitted this year. Winners were awarded prizes of gift cards, poetry anthologies and blank journals.

"Following a successful Scholar's Day and the College's annual Creativity Conference held the day before, the Library's annual Student Poetry Contest Awards Ceremony further celebrates student achievement and opportunity at GCC," said Cindy Hagelberger, Reference Services librarian and instructor. "I am already looking forward to the launch of our 16th annual contest next spring!"

For more information, contact Cindy Hagelberger, Reference Services Librarian (585) 343-0055 ext. 6231 or via e-mail: CSHagelberger@genesee.edu.

'Lunch in the Dark' at School for the Blind is April 28

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR) has invited individuals from a number of local businesses and agencies to a “Lunch in the Dark” at the New York State School for the Blind (NYSSB) to learn how those with low vision or blindness can live and work successfully.

Taking place from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Thursday April 28th at the School, 2A Richmond Ave, west of State Street, in Batavia, the event challenges the participants to dine in low light conditions, with blindfolds available for those who want a “total experience."

After the meal, with the assistance of an ILGR staff person, they will have the chance to try out activities when blindfolded, such as traveling a course with the white cane, feeling Braille documents, and using adapted devices. Services of ILGR that may be useful to citizens who are visually impaired, such as the Medicaid Application Assistance Program, will be explored.  

A panel, including students and graduates from the State School for the Blind who have been gainfully employed, will take questions at the end of the event. A number of workplace accommodations for blind employees that cost the company little or nothing will be discussed.

The ticket price of $15 includes the meal, and some materials participants can take home.

Members of the public who have not been formally invited are welcome to attend, if they pre-register. For questions, or to RSVP, please call Donna Becker at 815-8501, ext. 411.

Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR) is a member of the Western New York Independent Living, Inc., family of agencies that offers an expanding array of services to aid individuals with disabilities to take control of their own lives.

Member of Young Preservationists of Buffalo to speak at Richmond library, hosted by Landmark Society

By Billie Owens
If you're interested in old buildings and young people, we hope you will join us from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 30, in the Gallery Room at the Richmond Memorial Library in Batavia.
 
The Landmark Society of Genesee is hosting a talk by Derik Kane, CNUA, who will speak on the history and evolution of Buffalo's Young Preservationists (BYP) and how it has become a national model for the "New School" of preservation.

BYP members are not only concerned with the aesthetics and history of a building, but how it impacts the opportunities for livability, economic development, energy efficiency / sustainability, and social causes within the city.

The Senior Planner for Genesee County, Derik serves on the Board of Directors of the Landmark Society of Genesee County, and has been a core member of BYP since 2012. 
 
This event is free and open to the public. No need to RSVP.

LAW and Order: Akron man charged with DWI, Manhattanite charged with identity theft

By Billie Owens

Scott Jay Seeley, 54, of Newstead Road, Akron, is charged with driving while intoxicated with a BAC greater than .08 percent, DWI, having a cracked windshield and an obstructed view. At 7:52 p.m. on April 18, on West Main Street in the Town of Batavia, Seeley was arrested following a traffic stop for vehicle equipment violation(s). After interviewing him and giving him field sobriety tests, which he allegedly failed, he was arrested then released on appearance tickets for Town of Batavia Court. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Richard Schildwaster.

Malik Domonic Dietz, 21, of West 13th St., Manhattan, is charged with third-degree identity theft and petit larceny. Dietz allegedly used the victim's personal identification to gain access to an Internet site at 5 p.m. on April 8 from a location on Batavia-Stafford Townline Road. He was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Batavia Court on April 21. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Bradley Mazur.

BID's 17th annual Luncheon & Awards is Friday

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Batavia Business Improvement District (BID) is proud to highlight its accomplishments for the 2015-2016 fiscal year at its 17th Annual Luncheon & Awards from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Friday, April 22nd at the City Church Generation Center, 15 Center St., Batavia.

Please join us to meet and hear from Laurie Oltramari, the new executive director of the BID, who holds a master's degree in Architecture and Urban Design from the University at Buffalo and previously worked as the BID assistant director for the three years.

In attendance will also be representatives from the offices of Congressman Chris Collins, Senator Michael Ranzenhofer, and Assemblyman Stephen Hawley as well as Genesee County legislators and Batavia City councilpersons. The newly elected board members for 2016-2017 will be announced by Freed Maxick, CPAs. A buffet will be served by Downtown restaurant, T.F. Brown’s.

This year’s guest speaker will be Felipe Oltramari, director of the Genesee County Planning Department, presenting on “The Value of Downtown and Secrets of Urban Design.” Oltramari was the leading voice in introducing Genesee County to the concept of “Beer-Oriented Development (BOD),” which spurred the interest and growth of breweries seeking to come to Downtown. He is also credited with educating municipalities in Genesee County on the idea of form-based codes which is a less restrictive and more intuitive land development regulation that fosters predictable building results and a high-quality public realm by using physical form (rather than separation of uses/zoning types) as the organizing principle for the code.

This year’s recipients of the Batavia Business Improvement District awards includes Java Farm Supply, T-Shirts Etc., and Kristen Merriam. 

Java Farm Supply (45 Center St.)  -- Spirit of Downtown Business Award 

Java Farm Supply first opened its doors in 1951 in the basement of a small tire shop. Its founder, William Bookmiller, wanted to offer customized solutions to help local farmers by providing innovative products, many of which were manufactured right here in Batavia.  

Today, Java Farm Supply remains focused on the same purpose and has expanded its scope to include application, dairy, fruit, turf care and row-crop equipment. Its new location in Batavia compliments an expanded product offering and helps its dedicated associates and mobilized fleets deliver these solutions all over Western New York and beyond.  

Java Farm Supply and its associates are proud members of the community, supporting and participating in many local events and organizations. "We are honored to serve the community that has so graciously welcomed us."  

T-Shirts Etc, Inc., (35-37 Center S.) -- Spirit of Downtown Business Award

T-Shirts Etc. is a family owned and operated local screen-printing company that was established in 1997 and began its operation in the Industrial Building on Harvester Avenue, right here in Batavia. After several moves to accommodate the growing industry, T-Shirts Etc. made its way to Downtown Batavia in January of 2012 and became a permanent resident of Downtown after purchasing the building at 35-37 Center St. in 2015.

T-Shirts Etc. provides quality screen printing, embroidery, artwork and logo design, banners, promotional products and decals. They currently serve more than 2,000 customers within the Genesee County area as well as several customers in other counties and out of state. 

As the company hits its 19th year in business, T-Shirts Etc. currently employs five full-time people and is proud to contribute to several local charities and organizations in our community. 

T-Shirts Etc. is a proud member of the Batavia Business Improvement District, Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, Genesee County Business Education Alliance, and the Advertising Specialty Institute.

Kristen Merriam -- Spirit of Downtown Volunteer Award

Kristen Merriam graduated from Churchville Chili High School in 1999 and then attended Monroe Community College in 2002. She is the proud mother of three children and an avid gardener. Kristen was nominated for the volunteer award because although she does not serve on any committee, she is the first to volunteer to help for any event including promoting events, volunteering at the Batavia Wine Walk, Beertavia, the BID’s Annual Downtown Clean-up, and even staying nearly all day to help with the BID’s largest festival, Summer in the City.

She works at Charles Men’s Shop and although sometimes volunteers only do so in order to promote their business, Kristen works hard and selflessly because she sees the value of helping the community. She has worked behind the scenes for several years. It is likely that board members or committee members do not know the extent of her help. It is with great honor that we bestow the Volunteer Award to Kristen.

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Contact: Laurie Oltramari

E-mail:   LOltramari@DowntownBataviaNY.com

Phone:  (585) 344-0900 office                                                                                                                                    

Car crashes into Oakfield 7-Eleven, then leaves the scene

By Billie Owens

A vehicle crashed into the 7-Eleven convenience store in Oakfield, located at 25 S. Main St., and then it left. Law enforcement is on scene and Oakfield Fire Department is responding. The building is damaged.

UPDATE 2:07 p.m.: Fire command is holding the assignment in quarters.

UPDATE 2:25 p.m.: The car involved is described as an older model red SUV. It was last seen heading toward the city.

UPDATE 3:10 p.m.: A car matching the description of the vehicle involved in this incident is reportedly broken down on Route 262. Law enforcement is heading there.

Law and Order: Porter Avenue man charged with DWI, allegedly allowed teens to smoke pot in his car

By Billie Owens

Kerry L. Norton, 33, of Porter Avenue, Batavia, is charged with operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 or greater, driving while intoxicated, DWI -- Leandra's Law, and endangering the welfare of a minor. At 2:31 a.m. on April 16, Norton was arrested after being stopped for multiple traffic violations. Norton performed field sobriety tests, which he allegedly failed. Officers discovered that two of his passengers were juveniles under age 16. Officers later discovered that Norton allegedly allowed the children to smoke marijuana in the vehicle while he was driving. He was jailed without bail and set to return to court today. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Flanagan, assisted by Officer Eric Foels.

Deniz M. Pirincci, 59, Garden Drive, Batavia, is charged with owning an unlicensed dog and owning a dog running at large. At 9:32 p.m. on March 27, Pirincci's dog was running at large and allegedly attacked another dog that was being walked by its owner on Garden Drive. Following at investigation, he was issued at appearance ticket for April 12. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Kevin DeFelice.

Joseph A. Monte, 52, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with third-degree robbery, second-degree harassment, and criminal obstruction of breathing. He was arrested at 2:32 a.m. on April 17 after an investigation into a domestic incident that occurred a short time earlier on Walnut Street. He was jailed and set to be in court today. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Eric Foels.

Carlos Samol, 51, of Libersty Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree menacing. He was arrested after an incident at 8:07 p.m. on April 17 on Ellicott Street in which Samol allegedly menaced another person with what appeared to be a pistol. He was jailed on $5,000 bail and is to appear in City Court today. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay. In addition, he was charged with second-degree criminal contempt for allegedly riding in a car with another person in violation of a complete stay-away order of protection. On the latter charge, the case was handled by Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Mitchell Cowen.

Frank J. Finley Jr., 33, of Dellinger Avenue, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment and endangering the welfare of a child. Finley was arrested following an investigation into a domestic incident in the city at 11:40 p.m. on April 9. He was due in court on April 11. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot, assisted by Officer Peter Flanagan.

Riley J. Cole, 20, of Garibaldi Avenue, Oakfield, is charged with second-degree harassment. The charge stems from an incident on Walnut Street at 3:50 p.m. on April 8 wherein Cole allegedly struck an ARC staff member in the face. Cole is to appear in City Court Tuesday. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Officer Chad Richards.

Zachary Vernon Seeley, 19, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment and fourth-degree criminal mischief. He was arrested following an altercation at 3:11 p.m. on April 13 at 555 E. Main St. with another resident at that location. Seeley allegedly became upset with the other resident and punched a hole in a wall there, prior to allegedly shoving the other resident. He was jailed in lieu of $500 bail and was due in court on April 14. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Chad Richards, assisted by Officer Stephen Cronmiller.

Taheed M. Moffett, 31, of Turner Street, Rochester, is charged with criminal mischief -- $250 in damages, resisting arrest and second-degree obstruction of governmental administration. Moffett was arrested at 8:56 p.m. on April 19 on Pearl Street. The defendant was to appear in April 12. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Scott D. Higgins, 35, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated, with a BAC of .18 percent or more, DWI -- common law, third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation, failure to use headlights, and operation of a motor vehicle by an unlicensed driver. At 2:22 a.m. on April 16, officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle without headlights on West Main Street at Burger King. Higgins was allegedly found to be operating the vehicle while intoxicated and he was subsequently arrested for DWI and issued tickets. He is scheduled to be in City Court on April 27. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk. Higgins was subsequently arrested at 1 p.m. on April 19 for failure to appear on a charge stemming from an incident on Aug. 12, 2014, on West Main Street.  He was jailed, then released after posting $200 bail. He is to appear in City Court on this matter Tuesday. The case was handled by Officer Wojtaszczyk, assisted by Officer Perkins.

Christopher Michael Barone, 33, of Lawrence Avenue, Corfu, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th, and second-degree aggravated unlicensed operator. He was arrested at 7:59 p.m. on April 8 after a traffic stop on Main Street in Batavia. He was found to have a suspended driver's license (14 suspensions on four dates) and also had an active warrant out of the Town of Batavia for third-degree aggravated unlicensed operator. He was also allegedly found to possess cocaine. He was jailed on $1,000 bail and was to be in City Counrt on April 11. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Darryle Streeter.

Terry L. Travis Jr., 33, of Pringle Avenue, Batavia, is charged with driving while intoxicated, first offense, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, 3rd, refusal to take a breath test and illegal signal. He was arrested at 1:38 p.m. on March 25 and released with an appearance ticket for City Court on April 27. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk, assisted by Officer Eric Foels.

Robin D. Dixon, 28, of Barbie Court, Rochester, is charged with driving while intoxicated, driving while intoxicated -- common law, and driving the wrong direction on a one-way street. Dixon was arrested at 2:08 a.m. on April 9 after she was observed allegedly driving the wrong way on a portion of School Street, downtown. After a traffic stop, she was arrested for allegedly driving in an intoxicated condition. She is to be in court on April 20. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk.

Brian V. Bisig, 29, of Transit Road, Elba, is charged with having insufficient tail lamps and second-degree aggravated unlicensed operation. At 9:47 p.m. on April 14, Bisig was stopped for having a defective tail lamp in the area of West Main and River streets. He was arrested and posted $200 bail and is to be in City Court on April 27. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Chad Richards, assisted by Officer Christopher Camp.

Johnney Lee Shannon, 57, of Creek Road, Batavia, is charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and unattended motor vehicle. Shannon was arrested at 1:06 p.m. April 11 on West Main Street Road, Batavia, after allegedly leaving his vehicle running unattended in the parking lot of a local business. The defendant was issued an appearance ticket for City Court on May 3. Subsequently, Shannon was arrested on a warrant out of Wyoming County. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jason Davis, assisted by Officer Marc Lawrence.

Nathan S. Love, 23, of Montclair Avenue, Batavia, is charged with failure to appear. He was arrested on a City of Batavia warrant that was issued after he failed to appear on a charge stemming from an incident on Feb. 27 on West Main Street, Batavia. He was jailed on $500 bail and was to be in City Court this afternoon. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Gregory F. Frieday, 31, of Osterhout Avenue, Batavia, is charged with criminal trespass and criminal mischief -- intent to damage property. He was arrested at 11:20 p.m. on April 9 and was issued an appearance ticket for court on May 3. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk, assisted by Officer Eric Foels.

Timothy J. Wood Sr., 27, of Oak Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. He was arrested at 12:30 p.m. on April 3 following an investigation stemming from his allegedly threatening individuals. He was jailed on $1,000 bail and was to be in court on April 7. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Cronmiller.

Kyle Ratulowski, 20, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, was arrested on two counts of petit larceny after attempting to pawn items he allegedly stole from unsecured vehicles overnight while in the City of Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket and is to be in City Court on Tuesday. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jason Davis. Deputy Young from the Genesee County Sheriff's Office assisted in the investigation. The Sheriff's Office also had charges on Ratulowski for allegedly stealing items from unsecured vehicles in the Town of Batavia. He was jailed on those charges.

Kiha S. McNear, 18, of 1/2 Walnut St., Batavia, was arrested at 9:45 a.m. on April 11 after police responded to a report of a physical altercation in the parking lot of Tim Horton's. While police were interviewing multiple subjects, McNear became upset that poluce had stopped him and allegedly started using absive language and shouting obscenities and racial epithets toward police. He was subsequently arrested and issued an appearance ticket for city court at a later date. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Marc Lawrence, assisted by Sgt. Daniel Coffey. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Officer Kevin DeFelice.

Kasey J. Wagner, 34, of Fletcher Chapel Road, Shelby, is charged with failure to appear. Wagner was arrested on a warrant issued her failure to appear in court on a charge of third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation. Wagner was jailed on $250 bail and was due in court April 11.

Christina A. Cotter, 23, of Ellicott Street, Batavia, charged with second-degree criminal contempt. Cotter was arrested on April 4 after violating a complete stay-away order of protection issued by City Court by allegedly sending several text messages to the protected party. Cotter was to be in court April 12. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jamie Givens.

Ralph A. Golding, 51, of Broadway, Alden, was arrested April 11 on a bench warrant out of City Court. The warrant was issued after Golding allegedly failed to pay a fine in relation to a conviction for petit larceny. The defendant was due in court April 13. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Kathryn F. Long, 21, of Harris Road, Le Roy was arrested on April 14th by the Le Roy Police Department and charged with petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor. Long was arrested following a complaint of an alleged larceny in progress from Tops Market located in the Village. Long allegedly took $5.89 worth of merchandise from Tops. She was issued an appearance ticket and is to appear in Le Roy Town Court on May 19.

Kenneth A. McJury, 52, of 1/2 Highland Park, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. McJury was arrested following an investigated into a larceny at 5:57 p.m. April 6 at the Kwik Fill on Jackson Street. He was issued an appearance ticket for City Court on April 12. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Cronmiller, assisted by Arick Perkins.

Tyler D. Price, 23, of East Main Street, Batavia, was arrested at 1 p.m. on April 12 on a bench warrant. Price was released on an appearance ticket and was to be in City Court on April 12. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk, assisted by Officer Peter Flanagan.

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