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Registration now open for Genesee County 4-H youth tractor safety program

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee County 4-H Program is now accepting registrations for its 2024 4-H Youth Tractor Safety Program. The program is open to youth aged 14 and over and covers farm safety, tractor safety, tractor operation, and other related topics.

This program is a part of the National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program, which is a certification program that allows youth ages 14 and 15 to be certified to legally operate farm equipment for hire. After completing the training course, youth will need to pass a written knowledge test and driving test to receive the certification.

The program is scheduled to run Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., January through April at farm machinery dealerships throughout Genesee County. The fee for the program is $25 and youth must also be currently enrolled 4-H members. Registrations are due Jan. 27. To register for the program or receive more information, please contact the Genesee County 4-H Office at genesee4h@cornell.edu or (585) 343-3040 ext. 101.  Registration forms are also available online at http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/4htractorsafety.

GO Health releases findings about uptick in sexually transmitted infections

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are alerting residents to rising cases of syphilis and congenital syphilis. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is most often spread through sexual contact. Congenital syphilis is a preventable disease that occurs when a mother with syphilis passes the infection on to the baby during pregnancy.

In 2020, there were 12.1 confirmed cases of syphilis per 100,000 population, and to date in 2023, there have been 33.3 cases per 100,000 population, which include confirmed cases and probable cases pending investigation. With a rise in cases, particularly among women, GO Health has also seen a rise in congenital syphilis cases.

Syphilis and congenital syphilis can lead to serious health complications, but they are preventable with screening, early detection, and treatment. “Syphilis is caused by a bacteria that enters the body during oral, vaginal, or anal sex. It can also enter through broken skin that is exposed to the syphilis bacteria”, stated Brenden Bedard, Director of Community Health Services for GO Health. “Newborns can get congenital syphilis before birth or during vaginal delivery if the mother has syphilis.”

Signs and symptoms of syphilis may or may not be noticeable. They may include a painless sore on the genitals, anus, or mouth; a rash on the body; tiredness; fever; sore throat; headaches; swollen glands; loss of appetite; weight loss; patchy hair loss; muscle aches, and fatigue. Oftentimes the signs of syphilis go away and the person does not have it checked out. 

If not treated for syphilis, an infected person even without symptoms can still infect others, including an unborn baby. Having syphilis once does not protect you from getting it again, even after successful treatment. A person can get it many times, so that is why people and their partner(s) must get tested and successfully treated. If your sex partner(s) does not get tested or treated, you may get syphilis again. The longer the person waits to be treated, the more damage the disease causes to the body.

Syphilis can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, neonatal death, blindness or deafness, bone abnormalities, skin lesions, developmental delays, and other serious health problems to a developing baby. The best way to protect babies from congenital syphilis is to get screened throughout the pregnancy and just prior to delivery.

Here are some ways to prevent the spread of syphilis: 

  • Not having sex (abstinence) is the only sure way to avoid infection. 
  • Limit sex partners, especially if pregnant. 
  • Use latex or polyurethane condoms each time during oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
  • If you or your partner have any sores on the genitalia, anus, or mouth, or unexplained rashes on the body, talk with your healthcare provider and get tested. Do not have sex until both partners are fully treated.
  • Get tested often for sexually transmitted infections/diseases. 
  • If you are pregnant, talk with your healthcare provider about being tested to protect your baby.
  • If you know someone who is pregnant, encourage them to get tested. 

For more information on Syphilis and other Sexually Transmitted Infections, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. 

For more information on Health Department programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or call your respective health department at: 

  • Genesee County: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555
  • Orleans County: 585-589-3278

Follow GO Health on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at GOHealthNY.

Batavia police seeking information about shots fired on Wednesday

By Joanne Beck

Batavia Police responded to a shots fired incident in the area of Oak and North Lyon Streets on Wednesday at approximately 5:25 p.m. in the city of Batavia. It was reported the shots came from a black SUV that was last seen heading north on Oak Street.

The incident appears to have been targeted, police said in a press release. There have been no reported injuries. No further details will be released at this time due to the ongoing investigation. 

Anyone with information about the case may contact Detective Matthew Wojtaszczyk at 585-345-6357, or the Batavia Police Department at 585-345-6350, the confidential tip line at 585-345-6370 or online.

BID invites residents to Christmas in the City on Saturday

By Press Release
CHristmas in the City 2021
Christmas in the City parade in 2021.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Press release:

Join us in the holiday spirit at the annual Christmas in the City celebration on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 2 to 6 p.m. with the Downtown Holiday Parade starting at 6 p.m.

Christmas in the City activities include pictures with Santa, holiday crafts, cookie decorating, chili, hot cocoa, face painting, sleigh rides, family portraits and more! Several downtown businesses will be offering activities, crafts, and in-store specials. For a full listing of activities, go to www.bataviabid.com.

The parade begins promptly at 6 p.m. at Wendy's and makes its way down Main Street east toward Liberty/Summit Streets. 

Join us in our scavenger bunt bingo throughout Downtown, exploring and and supporting our small businesses. Bingo begins at Iburi Photography at 35 Jackson St. and ends at GO ART!, 201 East Main St. There are 22 business bingo stops. 

For more information on Christmas in the City, see The Batavian's previous story: Snow is here, December is coming, it must be time for Christmas in the City

Pavilion hosting annual tree lighting on Saturday

By Staff Writer
pembroke christmas trees

The Town of Pavilion will hold its annual Christmas in the Park on Saturday.

Each year, residents decorate trees placed in the park in remembrance of loved ones.

Children can visit with Santa at 3 p.m. There will be caroling at 4 p.m. followed by the tree lighting.\

Photos by Frank Capuano.

pembroke christmas trees

Former BHS hoops star picks up first win as high school head coach in Alexander

By Howard B. Owens
alexander trojans basketball

The Alexander Trojans beat Geneseo 51-46 on Tuesday to open its 2023-24 campaign in Boys Basketball.

The win was the first as head coach for former Batavia High School basketball standout Jalen Smith.

Jayden Snyder notched a double-double for the Trojans, with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Kingston Woods also scored 12 points. He had seven rebounds. Trenton Woods added 10 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Dylan Pohl scored eight points.

Photos by Doug McFarland

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alexander trojans basketball
alexander trojans basketball
alexander trojans basketball
alexander trojans basketball

Alexander and Attica businesses team up to support 'shop local'

By Press Release

Press release:

This Friday begins the 3rd Annual Shared Open Houses for two locally owned small businesses – Norton’s Chizzelwood and JP Designs, Plus.  

Their gift shops are full of products for your holiday shopping, offering many handmade and specialty items.  

Are you looking for wood-burned American flags, laser-etched and stitched items, shelves, side tables, cupboards, and wooden flower arrangements?  How about a special home décor item, outdoor poly furniture set, primitives, Buffalo Bills item?  You’ll find all of these and more throughout these two shops.

Located at 4309 Gilhooly Road in Alexander (Norton’s Chizzelwood) and 4096 East Main Street Road, Attica (JP Designs, Plus), these businesses are only 4 miles apart.  When you stop in at each location, a slip will be validated to enter you into the grand prize drawing for the “Basket of Joy” valued at approximately $100.  Make a purchase, and you’ll be entered twice into the drawing. 

Hours for the Shared Open Houses are this Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.  

Why not submit a Wish List for yourself once you shop?  The owners will then reach out to family members of your choice and suggest items that YOU might “wish” for. Stop in and enjoy some refreshments, hot cider and special savings!

On behalf of both Fran and Bobbi at Norton’s Chizzelwood and Joe and Judy at JP Designs, Plus – thank you for supporting small businesses throughout the year and have a safe, happy and healthy Holiday Season. 

Previously: 

 

Law and Order: Three Michigan residents arrested in alleged credit card scam at Speedway

By Howard B. Owens

Germayne D. Fifer, 19, of Inkster, Mich., Elijah A Davis, 22, of Inkster, Mich., and Tyrese I. Heard, 19, of  Ypsilanti, Mich., are charged with grand larceny 3rd and conspiracy 5th. The trio is accused of engaging in a credit card scam at Speedway in Batavia on Nov. 9 when they allegedly stole $5,000 in gift cards. Batavia patrol officers located the suspects' vehicle on Oak Street. The three suspects were arraigned in City Court and released.

Ameriquay J. Scott-Whitaker, 18, of Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property 3rd, reckless endangerment 1st, endangering the welfare of a child, possession of burglar's tools, and unlawful fleeing police in a motor vehicle 3rd. On Nov. 3, Batavia patrol officers attempted a traffic stop on Clinton Street of a vehicle that had been reported stolen in Rochester. The vehicle did not stop, which initiated a pursuit. State Police deployed spike strips to stop the vehicle on Route 33 near Route 19 in Bergen. Scott-Whitaker, along with four juveniles, were taken into custody. Scott-Whitaker was arraigned and is due in City Court and released.

Jamie S. Kraft, 38, of Bath, was arrested on Nov. 8 on a warrant. Kraft was initially arrested on Sept. 13 and charged with aggravated harassment 2nd, obstructing governmental administration 2nd and falsely reporting an incident 3rd. Kraft allegedly made numerous 911 calls in which he falsely reported that people had been struck by lightning. He then allegedly threatened to stab police. Kraft was arraigned and released on his own recognizance. 

Jimmy Ramirez, 41, of Rochester, is charged with felony DWI. Batavia patrol officers responded to a report on Nov. 4 of a possibly intoxicated driver on Lewiston Road and stopped a vehicle allegedly driven by Ramirez as a result. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Edwin L. Bethel, 57, of Rochester, is charged with assault 3rd, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, criminal mischief 4th, of petit larceny. Bethel is accused of causing injury to another person, damaging property, and stealing car keys during a disturbance on South Main Street in Batavia on Nov. 11 while in the presence of two children. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Kate J. Long, 39, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. It is alleged that Long sent numerous "unwanted" emails to Batavia City School District board members for "no legitimate" purpose. Long was issued an appearance ticket.

Stephanie L. Coley, 41, of Lockport, was arrested on Nov. 16 on a warrant. Coley was initially charged on Sept. 24, 2021, with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. A warrant was issued after she allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arraigned and released under supervision.

Michael J. Torres, 40, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 15 on a warrant. Torres was initially charged on April 12 with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd (Intent to Sell) and obstructing governmental administration 2nd after allegedly fleeing a traffic stop on a bicycle. He was arraigned and released.  Torres is also charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled 7th. Torres was arrested following a traffic stop at 6:17 p.m. on Nov. 15 by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun. He was allegedly found in possession of cocaine and buprenorphine. He was held at the Genesee County Jail pending arraignment.

George J. Budzinack, 43, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 16 on a warrant. Budzinack was initially arrested on Sept. 27 after an investigation into the larceny of a bicycle, on East Main Street in Batavia. The warrant was issued after he allegedly failed to appear in court. Budzinack was arraigned and released.

Christine M. Caplis, 43, of Elba, is charged with criminal tampering 3rd. Caplis is accused of tampering with security cameras in an apartment building on Liberty Street on Nov. 13. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Thomas A. Griffin, 36, of Batavia, is charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs. Griffen is accused of driving while impaired on Oct. 10 and was arrested on Nov. 14. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Timothy M. Pendleton, 38, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, obstructing governmental administration 2nd, and several traffic violations. Pendleton was stopped on Nov. 2 on East Avenue by a Batavia patrol officer. He was allegedly found in possession of narcotics and then fought with police while officers attempted to take him into custody. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Dorian D. Batchelor, 56, of Williamsville, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Batchelor is accused of violating an order of protection by entering the protected party's residents on Nov. 15. He was arraigned and released.

Benjamin G. Evans, 35, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 9 on warrants issued by City Court. Two of the warrants were related to separate petit larceny charges. The other resulted from charges of trespass and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. He was arraigned and released.

Jeanine D. Fuller, 37, no residence provided, was arrested on Nov. 9 on a warrant. The warrant was issued as a result of Fuller allegedly being found inside of the vacant Days Inn Motel on Oak Street on Aug. 23. She was arraigned and released.

Marcus A. King, 22, of Rochester, is charged with harassment 2nd.  King is accused of striking another person in the face at a location on Pearl street on Nov. 6. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Gregory M. Wansha, 23, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Wansha is accused of slashing the tire of another person's car on Nov. 11 at an undisclosed location. Wansha was issued an appearance ticket.

Adam J. Kaczanowski, 22,  of Eden, was arrested on Nov. 17 on a warrant. Kaczanowski was originally charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd after being involved in a motor vehicle accident on Sept. 26. He was issued an appearance ticket but allegedly failed to appear in court. Kaczanowski was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance. 

Terrance L. Falk, 25, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 6 on a warrant issued by City Court. The original charges stem from an incident on Washington Avenue where Falk allegedly threatened another person with a knife. He was arraigned and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. 

Krystal L Frye, 33, of Jamestown, was arrested on a warrant on Nov. 20. Frye was initially arrested on April 2, 2019, and charged with grand larceny 4th after an investigation into an incident where she allegedly stole a debit card. A warrant was issued after Frye allegedly failed to appear for a court appearance. She was arraigned and released on her own recognizance. 

Kenneth B. Jordan, 31, of Albion, was arrested on Nov. 13 on a warrant. Jordan was originally charged on Jan. 16 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd, after a traffic stop on River Street. Jordan was issued an appearance ticket but allegedly failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in City Court and released. 

David Henry Kendall, 39, of North Street, Le Roy, is charged with promoting prison contrand and criminal possession 1st of a controlled substance 7th. Kendal is accused of knowingly obtaining and possessing a narcotic drug on Nov. 18 inside the Genesee County Jail.  Kendall was arraigned and remanded back to the custody of the jail. 

Anthony Leo Vanelli, Sr., 46, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal sale of a narcotic drug and promoting prison contraband. Vanelli is accused of knowingly and unlawfully introducing a narcotic into the Genesee County Jail on Nov. 18 and giving the drug to another inmate. Vanelli was arraigned and is being held without bail.

Dustin Albert Huffer, 40, of Silver Springs, is charged with felony DWI, speeding, aggravated unlicensed operation, unlicensed driver, and reckless driving. Huffer was stopped at 2:48 a.m. on Nov. 19 on Route 5 in Pembroke by Deputy Stephen Smith. Huffer was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Maranda Lena Button, 30, no street address provided, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and insufficient signal. Button was allegedly found in possession of drug paraphernalia during a traffic stop at 12:21 a.m. on Oct. 28 by Deputy Jeremiah Gechell. Button was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Anthony Ross Morrow, 40, of Niagara Street, Lockport, is charged with petit larceny. Morrow is accused of stealing a crossbow from Dick's Sporting Goods at 8:02 p.m. on Nov. 24.  Morrow was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Samuel Robert Baudanza, 26, of Buffalo Street, Bergen, is charged with assault 3rd and criminal mischief. Baudanza was arrested following a report of a disturbance at Ralph and Rosies on Lake Avenue in Bergen at 10:04 p.m. on Nov. 25. Baudanza is accused of fighting with two people and damaging merchandise. Baudanza was held for arraignment.

Nicole M. Trapp, 21, of Buffalo, is charged with harassment 1st. Trapp was arrested by State Police on Nov. 28 in connection with an incident reported in the Town of Alabama at 10:54 a.m. on July 2. She was released on an appearance ticket. No further information was released.

Virginia A. Marks, 44, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Marks was arrested by State Police in connection with an incident reported at 11:12 a.m. on Nov. 27 in the Town of Batavia. She was released on an appearance ticket. No further information was released.

Charles A. Kohorst, 54, of Corfu, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Kohorst was arrested by State Police in connection with an incident reported at 12:56 p.m. on Nov. 27 in the Town of Pembroke. He was held in custody. No further information was released.

Heidi S. Kollarik, 51, of Oakfield, is charged with DWI. Kollarik was stopped by a Batavia patrol officer on Nov. 9 at an undisclosed time on East Main street, Batavia. She was issued traffic tickets and released.

Organizers offer 'gentle reminder' about Quiet Fund

By Press Release

Press Release:

The air is crisp, the trees are bare, and there is an anticipation of the season of thanks, peace, and joy all around. With this change of season, it is once again time for the “Quiet Fund’s” gentle reminder. The Twenty-five Neediest Children’s Fund, Inc. is once again reaching out to our community for compassion and financial support as we continue to help children in the Batavia City Schools.

The Twenty-five Neediest Children’s Fund, Inc., was begun during the Great Depression. It was the aspiration of the school physician at the time, Dr. Dexter Pierce, to establish a fund that would help the children of the Batavia City School District when a need arose that was greater than what their parents could manage. The initial problem was that many children needed to have their tonsils removed. The physicians involved graciously waived their fee, but the surgery involved an overnight stay which cost families $7.50 per night. For many, the cost of the overnight stay was too much for
their families. Thus, the Twenty-five Neediest Children’s Fund, Inc. was created. Now, we continue solely for the same purpose as was identified in 1933.

To assist those who “fall between the cracks”; the working poor; and those who just have no other means to provide what their child needs. The Twenty-five Neediest Children’s Fund, Inc. assists with medical care, dental care, prescription drugs, mental health care, clothing, coats, shoes, sneakers, eye exams and glasses, counseling, beds, backpacks, requirements for BOCES classes (cosmetology kits and steel toed work boots), fees for AP classes, and fees for GCC courses, and other educational needs and educational toys.

As students’ needs are identified by teachers, their school nurse, school counselors, or school social workers, the concerns are conveyed to Nancy Haitz, R.N., C.P.N.P, Batavia City School District’s Office of the Coordinator of Health Services. 

Mrs. Haitz then contacts child’s parents, and if it is determined that they are in need of
assistance, the Quiet Fund steps in to help. The parents select what care is to be provided, and by whom, in order to provide a remedy. The Twenty-five Neediest Fund simply pays the bills without red tape or publicity. The fund committee remains unaware of the identity of the child or parent so as to preserve the dignity of the family. For the past ninety years our fund has helped thousands and thousands of students. We feel fortunate that we have never turned away a student who was in need, nor have we ever run out of funds.

The Twenty-five Neediest Fund has been nicknamed the “Quiet Fund” or the “Quiet Charity” as we only make one annual appeal at the Holiday Season. Furthermore, we seek no public acknowledgement or fanfare for the work which is done for the children of the Batavia City School District. Yet we have found that people of this good community, and beyond, must feel as we do. For they remember and contribute to help the students. We are ever grateful for all of you who contribute primarily during the holiday season, but we are also blessed with gifts throughout the year.

A significant feature of the Quiet Fund is that all donations are turned into benefits. We are proud to act as a true charity without any administrative costs!  All funds collected by the Quiet Fund are used to assist the children. Every gift is a gift of love and is an affirmation that no child should go without.

Anyone interested in contributing to the Quiet Fund may make their check payable to the Twenty-five Neediest Children’s Fund, Inc. to be sent to Nann K. Zorn, 12 River Street, Batavia, NY 14020. To assist a child, and their parent, in this way is a wonderful and immeasurable gift. On behalf of the children, and their parents, helped by your generosity and gifts of love, we extend to you a most sincere thank you and warm holiday wishes.

The Twenty-five Neediest Fund Committee,
Nancy Arras,
Benjamin J. Bonarigo Jr., Esq.,
Nancy Haitz,
Sara Zorn Schroeder,
Virginia Tiede,
Nann K. Zorn

Tee's Golf Sim is bringing year-round golfing to Le Roy

By Press Release
tees3.jpg

Press Release:

Tee's Golf Sim, the first and only indoor golf simulator facility in Le Roy, is excited to announce its grand opening at 12 Main St., 2nd Floor, Le Roy. Since its opening on Nov. 15, Tee's Golf Sim has been offering a unique and immersive golfing experience to local enthusiasts, inviting them to enjoy their passion for golf all year round.

At Tee's Golf Sim, golfers of all skill levels have the opportunity to play on world-renowned courses without leaving the comfort of their hometowns. The facility currently boasts one high-end simulator featuring hundreds of courses, with plans to expand and add a second simulator station in the near future. This state-of-the-art technology not only provides an incredibly realistic golfing experience but also offers players the chance to analyze and improve their game regardless of the weather outside.

Understanding the busy schedules of modern golfers, Tee's Golf Sim has made booking sessions as convenient as possible. Tee times can be easily scheduled directly through their website, teesgolfsim.com, ensuring that golf enthusiasts can fit a round into even the most hectic schedules.

Owner Antonio Calabrese, says, “We’re thrilled to bring this unique golfing experience to LeRoy. Our goal is to create a space where golfers can practice, play, and enjoy the game of golf year-round, regardless of the weather.”

Tee's Golf Sim is not just a facility; it's a community hub for golf lovers. Whether you're looking to escape the cold, improve your game, or simply have a fun outing with friends, Tee's Golf Sim offers an unparalleled indoor golfing experience.

For more information or to book your tee time, visit teesgolfsim.com. Stay updated on our latest news and offers by following us on Facebook at facebook.com/teesgolfsim and Instagram at instagram.com/teesgolfsim.

Submitted photos from Tee's Golf Sim.

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GCEDC terminates agreements with Savarino, asks for $1M back

By Joanne Beck
ellicott station
Ellicott Station in Batavia
Photo by Howard Owens

Genesee County Economic Development Center officials have severed their ties with Savarino Companies and asked for more than $1 million of tax benefits back, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications Jim Krencik says. 

“This action includes cancellation of the lease leaseback agreement, the tax agreement (payment in lieu of taxes) and the sales tax exemption agreement, and have returned the three parcels involved back to the taxable side of the tax rolls,” Krencik said Tuesday. 

The EDC officials sent Ellicott Station LLC and Ellicott Station Commercial LLC related legal notices due to their “lack of curing of the default on our local tax agreement,” Krencik said. 

He referred The Batavian to an explanation CEO Steve Hyde gave The Batavian in an Aug. 23 article

To clarify, the majority of the GCEDC financial agreements for the project are termed over 30 years that start following the completion of the project. These are structured as performance-based. Additionally, the project was notified in July that it is in default of its GCEDC financial agreements and is currently in a cure period to meet the goals of a workforce housing project,” Hyde said in the August article. “In light of the news yesterday, the project being in default to our financial agreements enables the GCEDC to have a greater role in ensuring a positive solution as we work with all parties involved. We continue to work with the City of Batavia towards this goal."

On Tuesday, Krencik said, “Additionally, we have issued a demand letter to Savarino Companies demanding repayment of the sales and mortgage tax benefits enjoyed by the project to this point, and we are attempting to claw back $1.1 million of those benefits.”

One of Savarino’s Ellicott Street properties was also fined for neglected property maintenance, along with a number of others, to the tune of an extra $30,000 for city cleanups of grass, weeds and debris, City Manager Rachael Tabelski said this week.

During Monday's City Council meeting, Tabelski asked council for a budget amendment to increase the expense line for “multiple grass, weed, and debris violations” this year. While 85 percent of the time, residents will take care of the issue once they’re cited, she said, other times, “we do have to go in and either cut the grass ourselves or remove debris.”

Tabelski gave The Batavian a list of citations for Savarino Companies earlier this year that included lack of property maintenance, including overgrown weeds, debris on the premises, and rank vegetation, for Ellicott Station and not securing the partially finished apartment complex on Ellicott Street. Savarino halted work on the project this summer after shutting down his company due to financial issues. 

Councilman Bob Bialkowski asked her if the city can recoup the expense of cleaning up these properties, which also included a larger site of the defunct Days Inn at 200 Oak St.

“We bill them at 30 days, we bill them at 60 days, and we bill them at 90 days. And we will bill them again until it's time to put it onto the tax bill. At that time, Heidi's office, the city clerk, will go ahead and levy that amount onto the tax bill,” Tabelski said. “And a lot of times, it'll get paid in conjunction with the late tax bill. So we need to increase the expense line this year by about $30,000. And we are done, with snow on the ground, for grass, weeds and debris. So I don't feel like this will go any higher than where it is this year.”

Sponsored Post: Thermory USA is hiring

By Lisa Ace
Thermory

Wildly creative, unorthodox company looking for unique people that are ready for something more than the typical corporate culture. We are looking for a highly motivated, detail oriented, go getter to be our Sample Specialist. If you are looking for a company that is growing, truly appreciates a sense of humor, wants to make work fun, offers challenges and growth, AND values your opinions and ideas, all with a flexible schedule, then please send your resume to: kevin@thermoryusa.com and brandie@thermoryusa.com

Thermory USA, LLC is the North American Sister company of Thermory; a world leader of thermally modified wood products, utilized for exterior decking, cladding, and porch flooring architectural elements. Our unrivaled thermal modification process uses only heat and steam to enhance the wood and provide durable, long-lasting products with a sophisticated, refined aesthetic. Our truly natural products have no equal and may just change the way you think about wood.
 

Snow is here, December is coming, it must be time for Christmas in the City

By Joanne Beck
Santa in Batavia Centre
December 2022 File Photo of Christmas in the City
Photo by Howard Owens

Christmas in the City — an annual festive tradition that happens the first weekend in December — will be bringing the usual favorites of Santa Claus, hot cocoa, a parade down Main Street and cheery carolers, along with some new additions of a three-set train display and Serendipity Swing at the new Main St. 56 Theater, Pat Burk says.

Of course, the main event at Batavia City Centre runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and will offer gift-giving shoppers plenty of options with 42 vendors and 64 tables so far throughout the concourse, Burk said. (Vendors may register up to Saturday. For more information, go to bataviaplayers.)

“We have more than last year,” he said. “There will be Christmas decorations, wood designs candles, a lot of handmade stuff and Christmas-themed items. I think people are looking for places to exhibit their things, and I think people are realizing December starts this Friday.”

The Great Lakes and Attica Regional Railroad model train club will be joining the action this year. The club will have three train boards set up with various displays, including a Christmas village and town theme. 

At one end of the concourse, near Hawley’s Insurance, there will be a jolly fellow awaiting visits from kids to whisper their Christmas wishes in his ear. Yes, Santa will be there from 1 to 5 p.m.

Two groups of Batavia Players will be singing holiday favorites at downtown shops and along the streets from 1 to 5 p.m. as well, Burk said. 

That’s not all that will be happening in Downtown Batavia on Saturday. Beginning at 2 p.m., there are several activities scheduled, including: portraits and ornament crafts at Iburi Photography, cookie decorating at Eden Cafe, a Kids Zone at Tonawanda Valley Federal Credit Union, face painting at The Spa at Artemis, a live nativity, hot cocoa and doughnuts at EverPresent Church, letters to Santa at The Coffee Press, chili tasting at Adam Miller Toys & Bicycles, T-shirt coloring at T-Shirts Etc., sleigh rides at 6 Center St., adult tastings at The Yngodess Shop, cookies and cocoa at Releve Dancewear Boutique, Grinch at GO Art!, brass band and photo booth at Center Street Smoke House, tree lighting at Crossroads House, a scavenger hunt bingo that begins at Iburi Photography and ends at GO Art!, champagne and kisses at My Cut.

Several of the downtown shops will also have holiday specials from 2 to 6 p.m. when the parade is set to begin. 

The Business Improvement District has also borrowed an outdoor ice skating rink from Genesee County for use at the parking lot near Alva Place. Deputy Highway Superintendent Paul Osborn said that a rink can be made with just a couple of inches of water, but the temperature needs to be at least 32 degrees, so here's hoping this wintry weather will stick around for some old-fashioned outside skating.

There will also be plenty to do indoors, which he looks forward to, Burk said. 

"For us, it’s a tremendous event, the theater will be open for tours — they’ll have to enter from Main Street for theater tours. We like to see the support, we like to see people come in. I love to have all the kids here, the kids make my day. It’s a nice community event, and we have a tremendous amount of crafters and vendors that participate and help support the theater,” Burk said. “I mean, that’s the big thing. Right now, every single cent we can make is supporting our new facility and improvements we have to make here. We’re fortunate that every single show that we’ve done since we’ve ben in the new theater has been either sold out or close to it. Extremely well received, but what people don’t realize is shows cost money, so everything we can do to make sure we can solidify our season for next year, including the fundraising events and everything that happens over Christmas, is a big plus for Downtown Batavia with our theater.”

He likes the idea of having the Buffalo-based “little big band” Serendipity Swing at the outermost edges of the evening to cap off and “stretch out” a full day of festivities. The show goes on at 7:30 p.m. in Main St. 56 Theater.

Serendipity Swing is an eight-musician dance ensemble plus a female vocalist that reflects “a musical style from an era of famous dance halls, glamorous ballrooms, classy supper clubs, hot jazz joints and the most elegant of private parties,” the group’s website states.

“Our music is from the Golden Age of the American Songbook through more current favorites. Our music library, with over 400 titles, contains selections that explore and mirror the beauty of the music elements: melody, harmony and rhythm,” the site states. “It is music that is artful, fun, graceful, whimsical, listenable, danceable and enjoyable to hear. The melodies are memorable. The harmonies are soothing and rich in texture. The tempos, and rhythms, are danceable and toe-tapping.

Tickets are $20 at Batavia Players or at the door.

Merry Mitemas tournament this weekend in Batavia

By Press Release

Press Release:

On Friday, Dec. 1  the Genesee Amateur Hockey Association Ramparts Mite Division (8U) will host their first annual “Merry Mitemas Tournament at the David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena on Evans Street, Batavia. The Opening game will  begin Friday, Dec. 1 at 5 p.m.

Eighteen teams from the Rochester and Buffalo area are participating.  Also featured during the Tournament will be a Basket Raffle and 50/50 Drawing on Saturday along with donut sales, and T-shirt sales on Saturday and Sunday (until sold out).  The teams participating in this Mite Tournament will be playing half-ice; there will be two games played at the same time. This will be a fun event featuring the youngest players within the Association.  Many of these young skaters move up throughout the Association to play on the local high school team.

Volunteers are still needed to run the time clock, keep score and all the other chores that pop up here and there.  If you’d like to volunteer please contact  Allyson Valyear at Avalyear5@gmail.com.

Accident reported at Fisher and Drake in Oakfield

By Howard B. Owens

A multiple-vehicle accident is reported at Drake Street and Fisher Road, Oakfield.

One person is out of a vehicle, and another person is trapped, but it is "minor entrapment," according to a first responder.

The person in the vehicle is conscious and alert.

Oakfield Fire, with mutual aid from Elba, dispatched, along with Mercy EMS.

UPDATE 5:23 p.m.: The road is open. Oakfield assignment, back in service.

BHS Drama Club tries to determine who murdered billionaire in eight 10-minute plays

By Howard B. Owens
batavia high school drama club the alibis

For those who love murder mysteries and comedies, the Batavia High School Drama Club is staging The Alibis, a collection of eight interconnected 10-minute plays that revolve around the murder of eccentric billionaire J. Leslie Arlington.

There are plenty of suspects in the murder, and all have alibis, which none of them want to admit to because they were all committing other ridiculous crimes at the time. The suspects include disgruntled chefs, teen detectives, and vengeful divas.

Performances are at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday on the stage of the Batavia High School Auditorium, 260 State St., Batavia.

Photos by Howard Owens.

batavia high school drama club the alibis
batavia high school drama club the alibis
batavia high school drama club the alibis
batavia high school drama club the alibis
batavia high school drama club the alibis
batavia high school drama club the alibis
batavia high school drama club the alibis
batavia high school drama club the alibis

GSO ready to perform holiday favorites at GCC on Sunday

By Howard B. Owens
genesee symphony orchestra holiday rehersal 2023
Genesee Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster Julia Plato.
Photo by Howard Owens

It's that time of year when the Genesee Symphony Orchestra rosins up the bows and gets crackin' on holiday chestnuts such as “Christmas Festival,” “Sleigh Ride” and selections from “The Nutcracker.”

The annual holiday concert is at 4 p.m., Sunday, at Genesee Community College.

GSO's concertmaster, Julia Plato, is looking forward to taking the solo on another holiday favorite, the winter movement from Vivaldi's “Four Seasons.”

She's excited about it, she said, because "I think it's insanely easy to make it sound modern, even though it was written through like 300 years ago. It still has so much excitement and vigor and, yeah, personality that you would never know that it was written in the 1700s."

Plato, who is originally from the Hershey area of Pennsylvania, is in her second year as the first chair of the GSO, under the direction of conductor S. Shade Zajac.

She's been involved in orchestra performance since she was a child, participating in the youth orchestra in her hometown.

"That's kind of where I fell in love with playing music," she said.  "I went to school for music education in Ithaca and wound up teaching in Pittsford."

Through a friend, she heard about GSO during the pandemic, when the orchestra was still finding ways to perform, and that piqued her interest.

"I was so excited because I just wanted to have a group to play with, and it just lined up really well with the time that I moved to the area, and I found a good group of people to perform with," she said.

She's found it inspiring to work with Zajac.

"He has got such a great taste and repertoire," she said. "He selects very nice, well-rounded programming from all the modern works that you may not have heard to the classics that everyone hopes to hear."

genesee symphony orchestra holiday rehersal 2023
Genesee Symphony Orchestra Music Director and Conductor S. Shade Zajac
Photo by Howard Owens.
genesee symphony orchestra holiday rehersal 2023
Photo by Howard Owens.
genesee symphony orchestra holiday rehersal 2023
Photo by Howard Owens.
genesee symphony orchestra holiday rehersal 2023
Photo by Howard Owens.
genesee symphony orchestra holiday rehersal 2023
Photo by Howard Owens.
genesee symphony orchestra holiday rehersal 2023
Photo by Howard Owens.
genesee symphony orchestra holiday rehersal 2023
Photo by Howard Owens.
genesee symphony orchestra holiday rehersal 2023
Photo by Howard Owens.
genesee symphony orchestra holiday rehersal 2023
Photo by Howard Owens.

Top Items on Batavia's List

City of Batavia, NY Position: School Crossing Guard (Salary: $15.00/hr.) The City of Batavia is accepting applications for part-time School Crossing Guards. Qualifications: Graduation from a standard senior high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma. Civil Service employment applications may be downloaded from the website https://www.batavianewyork.com/home/files/genesee-county-civil-service-application or picked up in the Human Resources Department, City Hall, One Batavia City Centre, Batavia, NY 14020. Please submit completed applications to Human Resources or e-mail: tdean@batavianewyork.com. Background check and physical/drug testing are required. Candidate must become a resident of the County of Genesee or any adjacent town to the County of Genesee within 6 months of the date of conclusion of the probationary period for the City of Batavia. EEO
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AUTOMOTIVE MECHANIC CITY OF BATAVIA SALARY $25.54-$30.08 DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: Assignments in this Class require the exercise of specialized skills in tasks pertaining to the maintenance and repair of a wide variety of machinery and equipment used in public works activities, as well as to other vehicles owned or operated by the municipal employer. In smaller agencies, an Automotive Mechanic may exercise a degree of supervision over assistant mechanics or Equipment Operators performing minor maintenance and repair on equipment, with general supervision being received from a supervisor, superintendent, or other such official or designee. Does related work, as required. TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES: Repairs motorized and non-motorized equipment, such as trucks, tractors, mowers, graders, loaders, sweepers, rollers, compressors, and automobiles; Adjusts, repairs, and rebuilds gasoline and diesel engines; Repairs and replaces components of equipment, such as suspension systems, drive assemblies, brake systems, fuel systems, electrical systems, and cooling systems, and makes necessary adjustments to same; Carries out sanding, sandblasting, filling, painting, and related body-work tasks; Makes minor welding repairs; Operates drills, grinders, and other metal-working machines related to automotive repair functions; Performs preventative maintenance tasks which may include vehicle inspections; Attaches and removes snow plows, blades, and other attachments for motorized equipment; Maintains records of tasks performed, and other pertinent records; Requisitions parts and materials, to ensure adequate supply to maintain workflow; Acts as Equipment Operator, or wingman, as directed; May drive buses, cars, or trucks; May deliver fuel to job sites; Keeps shop area neat and clean. The above examples of duties are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position. FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITY AND/OR PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Thorough knowledge of standard automotive repair and maintenance methods; thorough knowledge of automotive repair terminology and tools; working knowledge of welding techniques; ability to make difficult repairs to heavy automotive and other mechanical equipment; ability to work from plans and specifications, and to follow rough draft sketches and oral instructions; good motor and hand eye coordination; manual dexterity. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms. The employee constantly is required to stand; walk; and use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in outside weather conditions. The employee is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions. The employee is occasionally exposed to risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: One year of full-time paid experience as a skilled automotive repairman. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:  Some jurisdictions may require appointees to receive and maintain certification as a NYS Motor Vehicle Inspector, within six months of appointment. SPECIAL REQUIREMENT FOR APPOINTMENT AND CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT: 1.     Possession and maintenance of appropriate valid license(s), as required. 2.     In school districts where incumbent may operate a school bus, possession of a valid appropriate level New York State Driver's License is required. 3.     Drivers must be at least 21 years of age. NOTE:  In addition, candidates must satisfy the requirements for School Bus Driver set forth in the Rules and Regulations of the New York State Commissioner of Education. Non-Competitive Class Civil Service Applications are due to Human Resources no later than October 18, 2024.
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