The Batavia Downtown Public Market opened Friday at Alva Place and Bank Street.
A two-car accident with injuries is reported on the Thruway in the westbound lane at mile marker 398.7.
East Pembroke fire and Mercy EMS dispatched.
UPDATE 9:53 a.m.: Two vehicles, two patients, one complaining of injuries. "We'll be all set with the resources we have," says a first responder.
UPDATE 10:12 a.m.: East Pembroke assignment is back in service.
Members of Batavia City Fire, IAFF Local 896, were at locations on Main Street and Ellicott Street in Downtown Batavia today for their annual Fill the Boot campaign to raise money for MDA.
This year, they raised more than $11,000 from thousands of small donations by residents passing by the firefighters with boots.
Elizabeth Mundell was not pleased to find out her daughter will ride the school bus four times each day next year. And she let a reporter from The Batavian know it in no uncertain terms at the Byron-Bergen Jr./Sr. High School on Thursday night.
Her sixth-grader will take the bus to Byron-Bergen Elementary, then go to the high school, back to the elementary school again, and head home after that.
Mundell worries her daughter and other sixth-grade students will be missing valuable learning due to extra transportation time.
The reason for all the busing back-and-forth? To accommodate the ongoing $20.5 million Capital Improvement Project, which began last summer and concludes next year.
The project is largely state-funded, and it aims to increase long-term school safety, energy efficiency and educational opportunities for students.
Yet in the short-term, until it is completed, sixth-graders will apparently bear the brunt of the transitions prompted by it.
Mundell, along with other parents, only recently received information about changes to sixth-graders' schedules for the upcoming academic year.
The central focus of the project is the elementary school classrooms.
For the past half century, since the summer NASA astronauts landed on the moon, they have not been updated to meet the NYS Education Department’s codes and regulations.
The sheer scope of the long-overdue renovations means they'll still be at it once school resumes in the fall.
As a result, it is the sixth-grade classrooms that will be relocated to the Jr./Sr. High School for the 2019–20 academic year.
Sixth-graders will be shuttled about between the elementary and high schools for different classes and activities at the beginning and end of each day.
Parents are learning more details about the poor conditions that necessitated the project as it moves along.
Classrooms were significantly smaller than the recommended size. According to an informational handout produced by the district, students have been receiving instruction in cramped spaces as narrow as closets and hallways.
Other district-wide improvements will include fire alarm and kitchen equipment replacements, removal of deadly asbestos, roof repair and ADA-compliant toilet facilities that will be wide enough for children's wheelchairs to access them for the first time. (The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990.)
The Capital Building Project was voted down on March 31, 2017, and did not receive enough support until the next vote on Sept. 21, 2017.
But many parents now say they were poorly informed about how the capital improvements, though badly needed, would impact their children's schedule when they cast their votes.
“We’ve been given so little information about what else was explored,” Mundell said. “Personally, I never would have voted for this capital project if I had known it would mean kids spending a year being bused back and forth.”
Parents also wonder if all the time spent on the road will interfere with daily instruction in classrooms.
Mundell said sixth-grade students may not be emotionally prepared for the turbulent schedule, and changes in learning environments may be particularly difficult for students with special needs.
“I recognize this is an easy solution, it’s convenient,” Mundell said. “I just don’t feel it’s in the best interest of these kids.”
In the midst of the changes, Jr./Sr. High School Principal Pat McGee and Assistant Principal Scott Bradley said sixth-grade supervision and administrative responsibilities will remain the same. Sixth-graders will be accompanied by teacher aides throughout each transition period, and students and teachers will still follow the elementary schedule.
In reference to the temporary, separate sixth-grade wing at the high school, McGee said, “What’s nice about that is it does keep them out of the way, they’re not caught up in the middle of the junior high area. They’re away from most of the high school activities.”
Mundell said parents seek more communication and transparency from the school board, administration and families.
School administrators intend to discuss the project with parents, answer questions and receive feedback before the next Board of Education meeting on Thursday, June 20.
When President Donald Trump drapes the Medal of Honor -- our nation's highest honor -- around David Bellavia on June 25, the Batavia resident will become the lone living veteran of the Iraq War to receive the honor.
Bellavia, who co-hosts a news talk show on WBEN, wasn't available for comment today.
Bellavia is already a Silver Star recipient for his single-handed battle against a nest of insurgents during the Second Battle of Fallujah.
He's also received the Bronze Star, three Army Commendation Medals, two Army Achievement Medals, and the New York State Conspicuous Service Cross.
The Batavian will cover the press conference in Buffalo next week and the award ceremony at the White House on June 25 at the invitation of Bellavia.
Photo: File photo from 2011 when Bellavia announced his first congressional campaign.
Press release:
The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) approved incentives for a 6,000-square-foot warehouse project at 52 Cedar St. in the City of Batavia at its June 6 board meeting.
Cedar Street Sales & Rentals (Mucher & Clark LLC) will receive approximately $37,000 sales, mortgage and property tax exemptions to support the $165,000 project.
The project will generate revenues of about 28,000 into the Batavia Pathway to Prosperity (BP2) fund over 10 years. The project supports 10 existing jobs and 1.5 new positions.
The GCEDC board also approved the acceptance of an application from W&M Humphrey Associates LP for a $3.1 million expansion for facilities on Munson Street in the village of Le Roy, which are leased to the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership (GVEP).
W&M Humphrey Associates is seeking incentives of approximately $465,000 in property, sales and mortgage tax exemptions.
The 11,000-square-foot project includes the addition of flexible conference rooms, training areas, offices and support spaces, and is estimated to add 2.5 full-time equivalent positions to the 525 supported by GVEP.
“The BP2 program is an important collaboration between various entities, including the City of Batavia, Batavia City Schools, and Genesee County to enhance economic development opportunities in Batavia,” said GCEDC Board Chair Paul Battaglia.
Le Roy Fire Department, with assistance from Le Roy PD and Le Roy Ambulance, staged a simulated DWI fatal accident to help make seniors at Le Roy High School more aware of the dangers of distracted driving, and drinking and driving.
An altercation is reported at MacArthur Drive and State Street in the city. Batavia High School security personnel are said to be on their way over their. Batavia police are dispatched.
UPDATE 2:55 p.m.: The person accused of instigating the fight is a 15-year-old male and police are out with him now.
Information from David Dumuhosky, commander, Glenn S. Loomis Post 332, Batavia American Legion:
The American Legion is 100 years old this year, and we are inviting the community to help us celebrate!
Tomorrow on June 8th, the place to be to honor this centennial is Centennial Park, of course, in the City of Batavia (located at 151 State St.).
Starting at 11 a.m. and going until 5 p.m., there will be nonstop live music, a variety of food trucks, and vendors and crafters, plus a display by the Military Vehicle Preservation Association.
The Glenn S. Loomis Post 332 -- Batavia American Legion is hosting the event in cooperation with its Ladies Auxiliary and the Marine Corps League Hansen Brothers Detachment 951.
The Alexander Fireman's Band will kick things off, followed by The DSP Jazz Trio, and the Old Hippies.
After that we will have multiple groups up all at once, playing back and forth: the Batavia High School Marching Band, the BHS Brass Band, the BHS Jazz Band, and the Saint Joe's of Batavia Brass Ensemble.
Food trucks attending are: The Red Osier Landmark Restaurant, Center Street Smoke House, Totally Edible, The House of Munch, and Over the Border. Also the organic/vegan Eden Café & Bakeshop will have a food stand.
The forecast looks great -- high of 79 degrees, clear and sunny!
Hope to see you there to have fun, enjoy your hard-won freedom on a beautiful day, and pay tribute to an organization that has helped our nation's veterans and military personnel for a century. God Bless America!
OPEN HOUSE - Saturday 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. - 917 Lewiston Road, Alabama! Super solid and well maintained, country Cape Cod home on almost an acre!
Back yard has wooded back drop and plenty of room to roam! Inside features 2 bedrooms down with full bath for those that need one floor living, as well as two rooms upstairs for extra bedrooms, or storage space or guests!
As you enter home there is extra large and spacious bonus/mudroom that can be whatever you want (toy room, family room or entertaining/dining if needed)! Great home for the money. Easy to see, call Lynn Bezon today 585-344-4663 or click here fo rmore information on this listing.
Smokin' Eagle BBQ & Brew kicked off its 2019 Battle of the Bands on Thursday night with two acts taking the stage and a check presentation to Golisano Children's Hospital for $3,100.
This season's goal: $5,000.
The lineup for the remainder of the summer series:
First responders, including personnel from the Elba Volunteer Fire Department, Mercy EMS, Mercy Flight, and the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, conducted a DWI drill Thursday at Elba High School for the benefit of seniors prior to their prom and their first summer after graduation, which is the most deadly 100 days for teens.
A rollover accident with injuries is reported at 5291 Ford Road in Elba. The occupant was able to get out of the vehicle. Elba fire and fire police are responding, along with Mercy medics. A pole and wires are down.
UPDATE 6:41 p.m.: Fire police are going to shut down Route 262 (Ford Road) at Norton Road and at Transit Road.
UPDATE 6:46 p.m.: National Grid has been notified; no ETA provided.
UPDATE 7:16 p.m. The driver was taken by ambulance to UMMC. National Grid arrived on scene a few minutes ago. Byron Repair is en route for the tow.
UPDATE 8:34 p.m.: Command just advised dispatch that the roadway will be closed for the next couple of hours.
Press release:
In response to the senseless criminal actions over the past weekend, the City offers its condolences to victims, thanks those who responded, and commits to decisive action.
“The City shares in the grief felt by the families and friends of the victims, acknowledges the selfless acts by our citizens, appreciates the tireless work of Batavia’s finest, and thanks those who aided in the quick identity and arrest of criminal suspects this past weekend. Out of respect for those who gave their lives, and work so tirelessly, we commit to decisive action that will aid community crime prevention,” said Martin Moore, City of Batavia manager.
“The City will implement effective ideas, expand on successful neighborhood actions, and continue ongoing efforts to promote and ensure the safety of our community. We will continue to work cooperatively with community leaders, law enforcement, criminal justice officials, media representatives, neighborhood groups and business leaders to target criminals,” said Moore.
“Criminal violence and the loss of life is never acceptable and my sincere condolences go out to all those in the community that were impacted. It was encouraging to see people come forward and help the police quickly apprehend those believed to be responsible. To prevent violent acts in the future we must stay involved. If you see suspicious activity please report it to the police so that they can intervene and possibly prevent a serious crime from occurring. Over the next few weeks, City Council will be reviewing ways to assist our first responders and strengthen our public safety. Together we can make a difference,” said Eugene Jankowski Jr. City of Batavia of council president.
“The City of Batavia Police Department would like to thank the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Genesee County Dispatch Center, New York State Police, Genesee County Local Drug Task Force, City of Rochester Police Department, City of Batavia Fire Department, Mercy EMS, the Staff in the ER at UMMC and Police Chaplain Don Shirk for the assistance over this past weekend with the major crimes that took place in the City of Batavia. Because of the support received, the Police Department as able to quickly identify and arrest both parties responsible for these senseless crimes,” said Shawn Heubusch, City of Batavia police chief.
“The City extends its gratitude to witnesses that helped us to locate, identify and subsequently arrest both individuals involved in last weekend crime. With witness accounts, our job is much easier and we are heartened to see the public’s cooperation and willingness to get involved when a crime like this occurs in their neighborhood,” said Chief Heubusch.
“The Fire Department appreciates the opportunity to partner with City Police and assist in a support capacity. We were pleased to share specialized equipment and department personnel to aid in the investigative process, and acknowledge the outstanding work of the City of Batavia Police Department during these (last weekend’s) unfortunate events,” said Stefano Napolitano, City of Batavia Fire Chief.
Ongoing community safety is the first priority of the City of Batavia. All of the City’s departments are committed to keeping our City a healthy, violence-free place where our families can live, work and enjoy our City.
Every year, fourth-graders in Batavia get to try track and field to see if it's a sport they might enjoy. This year, because of the new stadium being built at Van Detta/Woodward Field, the track and field day was held at Oakfield-Alabama High School.
Press release:
The Original Red Osier Restaurant presents GO ART!'s 41st Annual Picnic in the Park on July 4th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Centennial Park in Batavia.
Event kicks off with a Kiddie Parade. Decorating of bikes begins at 10:30. The parade takes off down Ellicott Avenue hill at 11 o'clock.
Food vendors include Red Osier, Abbott's Ice Cream, Kernel Cravin’ Kettle Corn, Lonsberry Concessions, and Over the Border!
Musical performances by Batavia Concert Band, Byrne Brothers Irish Band, and Grizzwoode.
Don't miss old-time family activities between acts, such as onion eating, sack races, tug o' war and a kids’ hula hoop contest.
Explore Arts Tent with kids’ art activities, face painting and short plays are presented in Artisan Alley. Escape Room holding a scavenger hunt.
More than 20 arts and crafts vendors on North Street and nonprofits in the lower park!
Uncle Sam wants you! at GO ART’s 41st Annual Picnic in the Park.
Centennial Park is located at 151 State St. in the city.
Press release:
Batavia Varsity Softball and Varsity Girls Tennis Coach Jim Fazio will be offering two camps this summer.
The softball camp is open to girls ages 9-16 from any town on July 8th-10th from 9 a.m. to noon at the Batavia High School Varsity field. Rain dates are July 11th and 12th.
Batavia Varsity Assistant and Athletes Edge Head Coach Brian Mruzcek, Batavia Pitching Coach Kevin Walkowski, JV Coach Jamie Masters, Batavia Stingers Coach Stan Kaus and some current varsity players will be camp instructors.
Fundamentals of pitching, hitting, throwing, and fielding will be drilled daily. Those taking part in pitching lessons must provide a catcher.
The tennis camp will be held at the Batavia High School tennis courts on July 22nd-24th from 1-4 p.m., with rain dates July 25th and 26th.
Alyssa Tretter, Batavia Modified A coach, and some current Varsity players will be camp instructors.
Boys and girls entering grades 3-9 in the fall from any town are welcome to attend. Fundamentals of tennis will be taught daily.
Cost of each camp is $50 and includes a dry fit T-shirt. Multiple kids from the same family will cost $40.
For more information and a camp brochure please contact Jim Fazio at 585-356-0901 or at jfazio@gvboces.org
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