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Overheard on the scanner: "It was what overnight?"

By Howard B. Owens

From the field: "Apparently the car was toilet papered over night, if you get any calls."

Dispatcher: "It was what overnight?"

Field: "I'll call in."

(I didn't catch what was reported just above the first line above.)

Police Beat: Petty crimes and DWIs

By Howard B. Owens

Danielle L. Young, of Orchard Park, is charged  with DWI and DWI with a BAC of .08. Young was stopped by State Police on Sumner Road in Darien.

Kaylie N. Rumon, 23, of Elmira, is charged with  DWI and DWI with a BAC of .08. Rumon was stopped by State Police in the City of Batavia.

Joey Somsy, 21, of Buffalo, is charged with DWI and DWI with a BAC of .08. Somsy was stopped by State Police on Colby Road in Darien.

Brian P. Verney, 25, of Attica, is charged with petit larceny and possession of a hypodermic instrument. Verney is accused of shoplifting from Wal-Mart. He was arrested by State Police and jailed without bail.

Amy L. Showler, 34, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Showler is accused of shoplifting from Wal-Mart. She was arrested by State Police.

A 15-year-old from Batavia is charged with petit larceny and trespass. The alleged crime occurred on West Saile Drive on Aug. 23 in Batavia and was investigated by State Police.

Erica Michelle Raphael, 24, of 335 Bank St., Batavia, is charged with petit larceny.  Raphael is accused of shoplifting from Target.

Today's Deals: Main St. Pizza, Center Street Smoke House, South Main, Settler's, Adam Miller

By Howard B. Owens

Main St. Pizza Company, 206 E. Main St., Batavia, N.Y.: Pizza, wings, subs and even hamburgers and hot dogs, Main St. Pizza makes everything deliciously. We have four $5 gift certificates ($10 value) that can be used together or separately for $10.

Center Street Smoke House, 20 Center St., Batavia, N.Y.: Ribs, brisket, steak, prime rib -- Center Street is a meat lover's paradise. We have a $25 gift card for $12.50.

South Main Country Gifts, 3356 Main St. Road, Batavia, N.Y.: Handcrafted items, gifts with a regional flair, candles, teas and spices -- South Main has a wide selection to please most any interest. We have a $20 gift certificate for $9.

Settler's Restaurant, 353 W. Main St., Batavia, N.Y.: Settler's has a 25-year history of serving great, affordable breakfasts, lunches and dinners to Batavians. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Adam Miller Toy & Bicycles, 8 Center St., Batavia, N.Y.: Feel like a kid in a toy store again, or treat your kids to the greatest toy store they will ever see. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

NOTE: If you've never bought Deal of the Day before, or are otherwise unfamiliar with the rules and process, click here.

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Rollover accident on Saile Drive by airport

By Howard B. Owens

One car is on its side following a two-vehicle accident on Saile Drive in front of the Genesee County Airport in Batavia.

There is no entrapment in either car. There are two people injured. No fire.


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City government

By David Green

I know there has been a lot of talk about the City of Batavia saving money. Here is an idea that seems to be going around Erie county, lets downsize Council. Batavia seems to have a large council considering the times, maybe eliminating the two "at large"  positions to cut more fat from the city budget might be a good idea. Not sure if it has been looked at, but if we are looking to save money in the city, why not start at the top? Maybe its just me, but wouldnt that be responsible government?

Technology Meets Taste: Cornell Works with Local Farmers to Extend the Availability of Sweet Cherries

By

By Becky LeFevre

Summer is almost over! Labor day is approaching, school is about to start, and the cherries are in season. Cherries in season? Thanks to creative cultivating and new storage technologies, local farms really do have fresh cherries in season RIGHT NOW! Schwab Farm, located in Gasport NY, has been working with Cornell researchers this season on testing the effects of Modified Atmosphere Packaging on different varieties of sweet cherries. Modified Atmosphere Packaging, or MAP, is the technical term for plastic storage bags that extend the life of fresh produce by controlling the atmosphere (specifically the CO2 and O2 levels) inside the bag. Given a more controlled climate, produce stays fresher longer.   But, its not as easy at it sounds. Each type of produce, and each variety within each type, reacts differently to the MAP. At Schwab Farm, different varieties of sweet cherries are placed in MAP and the effects of the MAP are carefully studied to see which varieties of sweet cherries perform best in the new packaging. This current testing will help fruit growers in the future know which varieties to grow for use in MAP, so that the freshest sweet cherries can make it to market much later into the season.

Sharon Brent from Schwab Farms sells produce at the Genesee Country Farmers Market (located in the Batavia Downs parking lot on Park Rd.) every Tuesday and Friday, and hopes to have sweet cherries for sale until Labor Day. That is remarkable, considering the typical sweet cherry season in western New York ends around the first of August. In addition to the use of MAP, cherries are available from Schwab Farm because the farm grows a wide variety of cherries that mature at different times. While some varieties are done around Aug. 1st, many other varieties continue to mature throughout the month of August. 

Cornell chose to specifically study the effects of MAP on sweet cherries for a few reasons. Cherries are becoming more popular due to recent discoveries of their health benefits. Cherries have powerful antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and even the ability to reduce the risk of some types of cancer and Alzheimer’s. Unfortunately, sweet cherries have a very short shelf life, and here in the northeast we have a relatively short growing season. MAP can greatly help farmers meet the local demands for cherries. Instead of purchasing an alternative at the grocery store, local consumers can buy fresh produce from local farms much later into the season. This means our dollars stay in the local economy, and fruit we eat is as fresh and nutritious as possible.

With fresh cherries available later in the season, there may be a need for some fresh ideas on how to use them. Pick up some sweet cherries this week at the Genesee Country Farmers Market and try one of the quick recipes below.

 
Cherry Vanilla Smoothie
(Measurements are approximate; add more or less according to your taste)
2cups fresh sweet cherries, washed and pitted
1 ½ cups of plain yogurt
3 Tblsp. Honey
½ tsp. Vanilla extract
Ice
Process all ingredients in blender until smooth. Enjoy!
 
Salad Greens with Cherries and Blueberry Vinaigrette
This simple salad is absolutely delicious, a welcome change from the traditional garden salad. The Blueberry vinegar is a great compliment to the cherries. Add some grilled chicken and sliced almonds to turn this side salad into a complete meal.
 
1 head of lettuce or an assortment of mixed salad greens
1 small red onion, finely sliced
2 cups of sweet cherries, pitted and cut in half
Hill N’ Hollow Blueberry Vinegar (This vinegar is locally made in Genesee County and tastes sweet and spicy, with a hint of cloves. It can be purchased from Present Tense Books and Gifts on Tuesdays at the Genesee Country Farmer’s Market)
 
Wash and tear lettuce and place in bowl. Top with sliced onion and sweet cherries. Serve with Blueberry Vinegar. 

Mancuso ready to move forward with Masse project with grant in place

By Howard B. Owens

 

At a press conference this morning, Tom Mancuso, president of Mancuso Development, said he was "delighted" the state approved a $1.5 million grant to help advance the Masse Gateway Project.

Even though the grant was $1 million less than originally requested by the city, Mancuso said the project should still be able to move forward.

It will cost at least $3.1 million and create an entrance off Masse Place into the Harvester industrial complex. The plan is to turn the old buildings into space suitable or light industrial and commercial uses for small businesses.

Mancuso said the the funding "really entitles us to spend a lot more money." In addition to the planned private investment from Mancuso Development, Mancuso implied his company will also need to come up with an additional $1 million to complete the project.

Audio: Tom Mancuso talks about the project.

The Batavian's news partner, WBTA, covered the press conference.

Man allegedly found with stolen car jailed without bail

By Howard B. Owens

A Batavia man is in jail without bail after being found driving a car that was reported stolen Wednesday morning.

The auto theft was apparently part of a house burglary in the 200 block of State Street.

Reginald Wilson, 36, of 112 State St., is charged with criminal possession of stolen property.

Wilson was reportedly found driving the stolen car on Lehigh Street at 8 p.m. Wednesday.

Police are investigating whether he was involved in the auto theft and burglary.

Batavia businessman charged with writing bad checks

By Howard B. Owens

Paul Pontillo, of Pontillo's Pizza in Batavia, is accused of writing bad checks from a business account.

The alleged bad checks were written in 2008.

The 53-year-old Pontillo was arraigned in City of Batavia Court yesterday and released on his own recognizance.

Previously:

Police Beat: Driver charged with DWI following roll over accident

By Howard B. Owens

Gregory M. Brew, 24, of 4799 Linden Road, East Bethany, is charged with DWI and unlicensed operationof a vehicle. Brew was arrested at Strong Memorial Hospital following a rollover accident on East Road at 10:38 p.m. on Wednesday. No other vehicles were involved in the accident. Deputy Matt Butler investigated the incident.

Tyrell T. Harris, 19, of 114 W. Englewood Ave., Teaneck, N.J., and William P. Ponder, 19, of 3905 Carpenter Ave., Bronx, are charged with trespass. Harris and Ponder were allegedly involved in an incident at College Village and told to leave. After Sheriff's deputies left College Village, Harris and Ponder allegedly returned. They were jailed on $250 bail each.

William Grey Neff, 35, of 1210 S. Main St., Medina, is charged with forcible touching. Neff is accused of forcibly touching a woman.

Kelly A. Decker, 23, of 127 Liberty St., upper, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Decker is accused of stealing $200 from July 23 to Aug. 20 while employed as a cashier at Kmart.

Dustin R. Benham, 20, of Darien, is charged with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance. Benham was arrested by State Police in the Town of Batavia. He was held without bail. No other details were provided.

Police seek help in finding driver who hit bicyclist

By Howard B. Owens

A car struck a bicyclist Thursday at 5 p.m., and while the driver stopped briefly, she left the scene before police arrived.

She is described as a "middle aged" white woman.

Police are asking the woman to either contact police, or if any witnesses can identify her, to call Detective Richard Schauf at 585-345-6312 or contact the confidential call line at  585-345-6370.

In a press release, police say the car turned right from West Main Street onto Jefferson Avenue. The bicyclist was traveling east. The driver got out of her car, but then got back in and left the scene.

No description of the car is available.

Neither the name of the bicyclist nor his or her condidtion were released by police.

UPDATE 5:03 p.m.: Det. Rich Schauf sent over this note a little while ago:

Thank You for your assistance in locating the driver of the car regarding the news release I sent earlier. The Driver heard the story on WBTA and phoned me. A witness also read the story on the Batavian. The driver was able to tell her side of the story which was verified by the witness. The report will be completed now. No charges are being placed. The bike rider had minor injuries. The important thing was the vehicle insurance information. Thanks again for your willingness to help us serve the community.  

Today's Deals: Delavan's, Carlson's Studio, Center Street Smoke House and more

By Howard B. Owens

South Main Country Gifts, 3356 Main St. Road, Batavia, N.Y.: Handcrafted items, gifts with a regional flair, candles, teas and spices -- South Main has a wide selection to please most any interest. We have a $20 gift certificate for $9.

Delavan's Restaurant and Tavern, 107 Evans St., Batavia, N.Y.: To me, Delavan's is one of those restaurants where you want to eat frequently until you try everything on the menu. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

Carlson's Studio, 39 Jackson St., Batavia, N.Y.: Family photos are more than just photographs. When you need photos for that special occasion, Carlson's is a great choice in Genesee County. We have a $50 gift card for $25.

Settler's Restaurant, 353 W. Main St., Batavia, N.Y.: Settler's has a 25-year history of serving great, affordable breakfasts, lunches and dinners to Batavians. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Center Street Smoke House, 20 Center St., Batavia, N.Y.: Ribs, brisket, steak, prime rib -- Center Street is a meat lover's paradise. We have a $25 gift card for $12.50.

Picasso's Pizza, 419 W. Main St., Batavia, N.Y.: A great variety of pizza, subs and salads -- and try the wings, too. We have three $5 booklets of $1 gift certificates ($15 value) for $7.50. The gift certificates can be used collectively or individually.

The Mane Attraction, 99 E. Main St., Batavia, N.Y.: The Mane Attraction is a spa and salon offering pedicures, manicures, hair styling and massage. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

NOTE: If you've never bought Deal of the Day before, or are otherwise unfamiliar with the rules and process, click here.

SOLD OUT

 

Genesee County YWCA announces 2008 honorees

By Billie Owens

At its annual meeting this summer, the Genesee County YWCA announced its choice for 2008 Business of the Year and Individual of the Year.

YWCA Program Dicrector Brenda Chapell provided this information about the honorees.

The Rent-A-Center store at 4152 W. Main St. was selected as Business of the Year. Its relationship with the YWCA began some years back when a big screen TV was needed for the public viewing of "Hip Hop: Beyond the Beats and Rhymes." A showing was scheduled at Main Street Coffee and a TV was needed. Rent-A-Center was called out of the blue and the store manager offered to have the TV delivered and arranged pick up afterward. It was a generous donation of time and money.

Rent-A-Center's Dave Harper has also allowed the YWCA  to borrow camcorders to record mock interviews during the YWCA’s “Power Up!” program. These recordings are then given to the women in the program and they are able to review their recorded interviews and learn from them. That way, they can fine-tune interview practices to increase their chances of getting a job.

In addition, Rent-A-Center also donates a used laptop for “Power Up!”. The participants are entered in a drawing for the laptop based on their attendance. This is a life-changing gift for one very lucky woman. Even though Harper has since taken some time away from the store, Rick DeFreeze has stepped in as the new store manager and continues the generous and supportive relationship with the YWCA.

The YWCA's Individual of the Year for 2008 is James Soggs. He has been an important link in the YWCA's work with our community. To many, he is best known through the Gospel and Grace program. It is an evening of food, fun and prayer and it is a blessing to all who take part.

Soggs has given of himself for years, organizing youth dances and being active in his church. He is a coach for both youth football and Little League Baseball. He encourages young people to do their best and have a good time doing it. He is a tremendous role model for the youth of our community.

What Soggs does for the YWCA and this community is much more than organizing an event. He brings people together. He bridges the gaps between people from different races and backgrounds. He shows by example what it means to be a good citizen. He shows young people that the way to happiness is doing what you love. He demonstrates what friendship truly means.

Healthcare Reform Vigil

By Bea McManis

Returning to Batavia our thoughts came back to the comments made, this afternoon on this site, about how little support there would be for healthcare reform.

The first surprise was that there was no one there to oppose us.  People walked by and gave us a thumbs up.  Cars passed and horns honked.  Even 18 wheelers gave us an approving toot on their horns.

A prophetic sign that we learned was true based on the reception we received tonight in Lancaster.

Beth's ingenius idea of classy candle holders.

Lorie Longhany stands amid the supporters of healthcare reform in Lancaster.

Beth, Lorie, and Dan Longhany.

It was peaceful; it was powerful; it was important to us.

Dumpster fire reported in Bergen

By Howard B. Owens

A patrol officer -- not sure which agency -- reported a dumpster fire at 59 S. Lake Road, Bergen.

Bergen Fire has been dispatched.

The reporting officer and possibly one other person are attempting to put out the fire with a fire extinguisher and hose.

UPDATE 7:09 p.m.: Bergen Fire back in service.


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State grant for Masse Gateway comes in at $1.5 million

By Howard B. Owens

The city's application for a $2.5 million grant to help spark redevelopment of Masse Gateway (part of the Harvester Center complex) has been reduced to $1.5 million in the final award.

The city received word today that the funds will be released to the City, according to The Batavian's news partner WBTA.

City Manager Jason Molino told WBTA that the RestoreNY funds were intended to begin demolition and reconstruction of Masse Place.

"It's our hope that this will be the beginning of opportunities to develop that former industrial site into some more commercial and light industrial locations for businesses and hopefully increase jobs in the area," Molino said.

UPDATE: City Council President Charlie Mallow issued this statement this afternoon:

After decades of political inaction and stonewalling, our city has finally taken the first step forward to rebuild its decaying center. This could not have been possible without our City Manager and his staff. Their hard work and determination has brought millions of dollars in grants, as well as financial stability to our community over the last two years. I also want to thank Mr. Mancuso for believing in and investing in our city. Batavia can only prosper when business people like Mr. Mancuso are willing to take a chance and invest their own hard earned money into our community. I would like to give a special thanks to Governor Patterson and his staff for taking the time to understand the needs of our city and ensuring that Batavia receives its share of federal and state dollars to help stimulate our local economy.

Previous Masse Gateway Project coverage.

Weight shift may have caused trucker to lose control of his rig

By Howard B. Owens

The driver of a tractor trailer says a possible weight shift caused him to lose control of his trailer last night, causing his rig to rumble off  southbound Route 63 and strike a utility pole.

Pole #5867 was sheared off at its base and the trailer overturned.

The driver, Ljubisa Savuljeskovic, 55, of 192 Hugson St., Hamilton, Ontario Canada, was not injured in the accident.

The mishap was reported at 9:14 p.m.

A witness told Deputy C.J. Minuto that she saw Savuljeskovic swerve suddenly and then seem to overreact, causing him to lose control of the trailer.

National Grid was called to the scene to repair the utility pole.

Byron man wins largest progressive jackpot ever at Batavian Downs - $308,000

By Howard B. Owens

Roger Jaczynski, of Byron, dropped just a couple of bucks into a video lottery game at Batavia Downs on Sunday. Within seconds, he was $308,000 richer.

His winnings mark the largest progressive jackpot hit ever at an in-house video gaming machine in New York.

"We are very excited to have a jackpot of this magnitude and that we can award it to one of our valued patrons," said Marty Biniasz, director of marketing, Batavia Downs Casino.

The previous record was $197,938 awarded in 2008 to a patron of Empire City Casino at Yonkers.

A progressive game starts out with a prize of $10,000 and builds as more and more players participate without hitting the jackpot.

WBTA has interviewed Jaczynski and will air his comments on its 12:30 p.m. newscast.

Top Items on Batavia's List

HUGE sale thousands of items something for everyone lots of new stuff games toys housewares clothes collectibles kitchen items ect ect ect and much more rain or shine everything covered every Saturday June 1st -October 26 9-5 3657 galloway rd batavia
Tags: garage sales

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