batavia

After being paralyzed in a motor-vehicle accident at the age of 21, Ricky Palermo, 58, could be bitter.

Yet, he considers himself blessed.

One reason is the support team of family and friends who not only help him day to day, but the dedicated committee members who have volunteered to make the annual Ricky Palermo Spinal Injury Golf Tournament a success.

The tournament scheduled Aug. 4 will be the 22nd, and Palermo hopes it won’t be the last.

He fears as people age and lives get harder, the people who have helped him all these years won’t be able to keep the pace. He cites as an example losing his brother-in-law Joe last year.

The thought of his benefit tournament dying out is almost unbearable. In its 21 years, the tournament has raised more than $1.2 million for spinal injury research.

Annually, money from the golf tournament is donated to four causes – the Emergency Room at United Memorial Medical Center, where Palermo was treated; Strong Memorial Hospital’s Spinal Unit; the Batavia YMCA, where Palermo regularly exercises on a Functional Electrical Stimulation bike; and the Miami Project in Miami, where doctors and research scientists are working to find a cure for spinal injuries.

Palermo was one of the first six patients to take part in the Miami Project after it was established in 1985, just four years after his accident.

A key figure in founding the Miami Project was NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Nick Buoniconti, whose son Marc had been injured playing football. The Buoniconti family vowed that progress in spinal injury research would not be slowed because of lack of funds. To date, their foundation has raised one-half billion dollars.

One of their fundraisers is the Great Sports Legends’ Dinner in New York City, to which Palermo is sent tickets every year.

“I am so blessed that they think of me,” Palermo said.

Another reason the Miami Project is so special to Palermo is because his niece, Batavia native Dr. Annie Palermo, has just been hired there. One of the studies he will be involved in will be led by Annie.

The first study he participated in proved to doctors that someone with a spinal cord injury could stay in shape with proper exercise. Several times a week, Palermo goes to the YMCA, where he rides the Functional Electrical Stimulation bike, which his golf tournament helped fund.

Palermo hopes the golf tournament will continue to be a success. In the past, golfers have come from eight different states. Many plan their vacations around the event, he said.

The first year they set a goal of $5,000, but actually raised $11,500.

“That’s when we knew we had to try again,” Palermo said.

Last year’s tournament raised $74,000. They have had as many as 224 golfers participate in one year.

“We’ve met so many caring, wonderful people,” Palermo said. “I consider myself lucky.”

Terry Hills, where the tournament takes place, has been so good to them, Palermo said. While the scheduled tee-off isn’t until 11 a.m., some start at daybreak to get everyone in.

Genesee Community College is also a big supporter, hosting the dinner, auction and show in the evening.

Cost for lunch, golf, and dinner is $120 per person. Just hors d'oeuvres, dinner and the show is $50.

The show will include a video and a presentation by two doctors from the Miami Project. The video will feature footage shot of Palermo when he was in Miami.

There will also be a live and silent auction and raffles.

Donations of cash, prize items, and auction items are welcome.

To register to golf or for information on making a donation, contact Palermo at (585) 739-8522.

Photo (by Howard Owens): Ricky Palermo with his cousin John Curtiss.

No young man forgets his first new car, especially when it is the car of his dreams.

And few get the chance to own that car again more than 50 years later.

The first time Peter Lockner saw the “Dodge Girl” advertise a 1966 red Dodge Charger, he knew he had to have one.

That was in December 1966, the first year Dodge made the Charger. Lockner had a young wife and had just quit his job at Kodak to get his master’s degree at Cornell University.

“We had several junk cars, but I couldn’t leave Marilyn with a junker while I was at college,” said Lockner, a flight instructor at Genesee County Airport. “I had seen the Dodge Girl on TV and I went to McAvoy Dodge in Rochester and said I wanted a red Charger. They had only one, but it had an anemic 361-cubic-inch V8 engine with a two-barrel carburetor.”

Lockner really wanted a Hemi but was told that would take two months to get.

“So I bought the ‘anemic’ Charger,” Lockner said.

The original bill of sale lists the base price as $3,122.00. With optional add-ons for four-speed transmission, emergency flashers, padded sun visors, power steering, AM radio, white sidewall tires and $51 for shipping, the final price was $3,618.88.

Lockner’s wife drove the car that winter and he got his master’s and returned to Kodak, where he was sent to California for two years. He drove the Charger to California and back to their home in Byron.

Lockner had put a 440 police interceptor engine in the Charger.

“I used to race a Corvette on Ford Road and the third time I beat him, I blew the engine,” Lockner said. “Then I put a Chrysler Imperial engine in it which I had rebuilt with a racing cam and Holley 750 CFN carburetor. It idled real nice and it ran nice.”

Lockner said Marilyn once got ticketed for speeding in Elba. Two state troopers had to chase her to Saile Drive before they could stop her. She told them the car wouldn’t slow down.

Lockner said he once pegged it at 160 mph on the I-490.

In 1985, Lockner’s cousin’s son was graduating from high school and she wanted to give him a car. The Charger had almost 140,000 miles on it, and Lockner was tired of fixing it and treating it with tender, loving care. So he sold it for $1,500.

The car was last driven in 1987 and the registration sticker was still on the windshield when Lockner discovered just over a year ago his cousin still had the car.

“It has been stored in Ohio since then,” Lockner said. “I had sold it with the understanding I had first dibs to buy it back if she ever wanted to sell it.”

In 2017, Lockner paid $6,000 to buy the Charger back and towed it to Batavia, where he and his son Steven have worked nearly a year to get it running again.

That entailed all new brakes and completely cleaning and rebuilding the carburetor. When they were ready to start it, Lockner hooked up a drill to the oil pump and moved the oil around.

“Then she started right up,” he said.

Genesee County DMV helped Lockner reregister the car. He got insurance and now he’s driving it.

Of course, he only gets about 10 miles to the gallon, but doesn’t bother Lockner at all.

It’s still the car of his dreams.

Below: Pete Lockner, of Batavia, shows off the 1966 Dodge Charger he purchased new. He recently located the car in Ohio and purchased it back. He has the original invoice from McAvoy Dodge in Rochester, showing a final price of $3,618.88 with options and shipping. Photos by Virginia Kropf.

Submitted photos and press release:

Northgate Free Methodist Church is currently holding its Summer Base Camp for children ages 6-12 years old.

Next Generation Pastor Daniel Calkins has created an engaging curriculum to help build character development as well as community awareness among the enrolled children.

The morning curriculum is a sports-themed program, coached and run by UW Sports Ministries. This year's encompassing theme is “Breaking Free.” The children have been able to participate in select sports and are being taught lessons of responsibility, truth, strong relationships, faith and eternity.

Today, as part of their community involvement, the kids were able to visit Batavia’s T-Shirts, Etc. The children were educated on the process of screen-printing, and were able to get an exclusive sneak peek into the world of T-shirt printing.

Pastor Daniel is running Base Camp this week through Friday. Throughout the year, he also conducts both a Middle School Base program, which runs each Wednesday evening from 6-8, and a High School Base group, which meets Sunday evenings from 6:30-8.

For more information regarding our youth programs, please contact the office at (585) 343-4011, or email Pastor Daniel at Daniel@northgatefmc.com

Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Press release:

On Monday, July 16, officers from the City of Batavia Police Department responded to the area of 11 Lehigh Ave. for a 9-1-1 hang-up call plotting to the general area. Upon arrival, officers found no signs of distress and checked the building located at 11 Lehigh Ave. for any signs of a disturbance.

Officers located an open door to the building and checked the interior to ensure that there were no problems inside the building itself or anyone in need of assistance. During the search of the interior of the building officers located a large make-shift aquarium that contained a 4-foot-long alligator.

Officers immediately notified the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and EnCon Officer Wilson arrived on scene a short time later. The alligator was captured and turned over to EnCon Officer Wilson. It was determined that the 9-1-1 hang up call was not related to the found alligator.

Residents are reminded that the possession or sale of alligators and other dangerous animals is a violation of the New York State Environmental Conservation Law. Not only is it illegal to possess such an animal, but they are dangerous and should not be harbored by anyone without specific training and the appropriate licensing or permits.

If anyone has any information regarding this animal or knows of anyone harboring such a dangerous animal, they should contact the DEC Region 8 office at (585) 226-2466.

This investigation was turned over the DEC, any requests for further information should be directed to DEC Region 8 press contact Regina Willis at (585) 226-5324 or pressoffice@dec.ny.gov. 

Previously: Four-foot alligator found in vacant building on Lehigh Avenue

Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Press release:

The Genesee County and Batavia Youth Bureaus are planning the annual Safe Summer Children’s Carnival open to the public to take place on Thursday, July 26, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Falleti Ice Arena, 22 Evans St. in Batavia.

One dollar buys a ticket to play 10 games, and children can win “funny money” to redeem for prizes. Entertainment by “Bubblemania” is scheduled from 10-10:45 a.m. and the games will run from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. with a 30-minute lunch break. Folks from the community should plan to bring a bagged lunch or plan to leave for lunch.

There will also be several community agency booths. There will be a grand prize, which consists of two Fantasy Island Amusement and Water Park Admission Tickets and a one-year membership to the YMCA that can be won by visiting the booths.

For more information on the carnival please contact Chelsea at the Genesee County Youth Bureau at 344-3960.

Tracy A. Battaglia, 47, of Ellicott Avenue, Batavia, is charged with owning an unlicensed dog and dog running at large. Battaglia was charged after her dog ran loose and bit another dog and two people attempting to intervene (initial report).

Thomas E. Brenkus, 50, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with forcible touching and first-degree sex abuse. Brenkus is accused of touching a female acquaintance by force for the purpose of sexual gratification. He was jailed without bail.

Cameron David Majewski, 19, of South Swan Street, Batavia, is charged with harassment. Majewski allegedly punched another person during a disturbance on South Swan Street at 1:30 p.m. March 25. He was jailed on $1,000 bail.

Kerry Ann Dudek, 43, of Fisher Road, Oakfield, is charged with petit larceny. Dudek is accused of stealing $54.63 worth of merchandise from Tops Friendly Market.

Darien L. Rhodes, 25, of Dellinger Avenue, Batavia, is charged with criminal obstruction of breathing, criminal possession of a controlled substance, unlawful imprisonment, menacing, 2nd, criminal possession of a weapon. Rhodes was charged following an incident reported at 1:09 a.m. July 12 at a location on Dellinger Avenue.

Deborah S. Rodriguez, 50, of Farnsworth Avenue, Oakfield, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. Rodriguez was charged following an investigation into a disturbance on Pearl Street, Batavia, at 3 a.m. July 5, by Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk.

Thomas A. Griffin II, 31, is charged with South Swan Street, Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and harassment, 2nd. Griffin is accused of trying to take a child out of the arms of another person and striking the person in the face in an incident reported at 4 p.m., Monday. Griffin was jailed on $2,500 bail.

Shawn Brent Springsteen, 53, of Fitchett Street, Poughkeepsie, is charged with criminal contempt, 1st. Springsteen was allegedly found in the presence of a person protected by a complete stay away order at 4:48 p.m. Wednesday at a truck stop on Route 77, Pembroke.

Andrea Marie Gray, 40, of Lake Street, Le Roy, is charged criminal mischief, 4th. Gray is accused of damaging property at 5130 E. Main St., Batavia, at 2:15 p.m. July 10.

Maurice Devon Doleman Sr., 49, of Killian Road, Pembroke, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, illegal signal, driver's view obstructed. Doleman was stopped at 11:07 p.m. Tuesday on Killian Road, Pembroke, by Deputy Eric Meyer.

Jacob Wyatt Klotzbach, 26, of Walnut Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Klotzbach is accused of stealing $22.67 in merchandise from Tops Friendly Market in Batavia.

Ryan D. Bell, 19, of Henrietta, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate. Bell was stopped at 9:32 p.m. Wednesday on Route 77 in Darien by State Police. Also charged with unlawful possession of marijuana is Jason A. Batterson, 33, of Walworth.

Jennifer A. Roskey, 37, of Oakfield, is charged with menacing, 2nd, acting in a manner injurious to a child, and criminal possession of a weapon, 3rd. Roskey was charged following an incident reported at 8:23 p.m. Wednesday, at 39 S. Main St., Oakfield, by State Police. Roskey was ordered held on bail. No further information released.

Domonique T. Smith, 26, of Rochester, is charged with DWI, Felony DWI, endangering the welfare of a child, and driving while impaired by drugs. Smith was stopped at 2:03 p.m. June 27 on South Lake Road, Bergen, by State Police.

Trisha R. Santora, 35, of Batavia, is charged with conspiracy, 5th, grand larceny, 4th, and falsifying business records. Santora is accused of a theft at Home Depot reported at 1:37 p.m. Monday. Santora was arrested by State Police. No further details released.

THURSDAY, JULY 19th – Veteran’s Day & Chapin Manufacturing Day at the Fair!

• 9 a.m.        Open Sheep Show (Old Draft Horse Barn)
• 9 a.m.        4-H Horse Show—Gymkhana Classes (Horse Ring)
• 9 a.m.        4-H Dairy Cattle Show (Show Ring)
• 10 a.m.      EXHIBIT HALLS & BUILDINGS OPEN
• 2 p.m.        4-H Goat & Sheep Quiz Bowl (Merton Building)
• 5-10 p.m.   MIDWAY OPEN (Amusement Area)
• 5:30 p.m.   4-H Market Animal Auction Buyers Dinner
• 6:45 p.m.   4-H Market Animal Auction Awards
• 7 p.m.        Genesee Speedway SPECIAL STOCK CAR RACES (Grandstand)
• 7 p.m.        Battle of the Bands (Entertainment Tent)
• 7 p.m.        4-H Market Animal Auction (Show Ring)
• 7 p.m.        4-H Horses Released
• 10 p.m.      EXHIBIT HALLS & BUILDINGS CLOSE

*This schedule is tentative and is subject to change at any time.*

Press release:

Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR), and our colleagues in our sister agencies in the Western New York Independent Living Family of Agencies (WNYIL), offer our warmest congratulations to ILGR Independent Living specialist in Batavia David Dodge, as his service to citizens with disabilities across the Empire State was recognized last month.

Sheila J. Poole, the commissioner of the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) issued a Citation to Dodge, recognizing his "Outstanding Service to the Statewide Rehabilitation Council (SRC) of the New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB)."

In addition to his ongoing contributions as "a loyal and dedicated member" of the SRC, the document particularly lauds Dodge, (who is, himself, legally blind), for his work: on NYSCB's Assistive Technology Task Force (ATTF); advising the Commission on the development and reinvestment in seven Assistive Technology Centers in all regions of the State; helping to advance the personal development of children with visual impairments through use of appropriate technology; and working to improve AT services, generally.

It goes on to single out his ability to function as a guest speaker with little notice.

Dodge has also been scheduled in advance for some venues, such as: sharing the podium with ILGR Director Rae Frank for "Diversity in Disability sharing Universal Design Principles with the Community" at the New York Association for Independent Living (NYAIL)'s 2017 Statewide Conference and Expo, "Purpose. Progress. Power." in Troy; and presenting alongside Esther Greenhouse of Cornell University at Access to Independence of Cortland County Inc.'s June Workshop "Universal Design Strategies: Developing Environments for the Lifespan!"

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.

It's been a busy football summer for Mason Randall, who will be a junior at Notre Dame High School this year.

He's established himself as a legitimate contender for a Division 1 roster spot.

Last month, he was number one, with the highest score of all lineman, participating at the sections 5 and 6 NYS High School Football Coaches Association Combine held at Fairport High School.

That earned him an invitation to the “Elite Showcase,” held at Ithaca College this past weekend, where he showed off his skills along with 250 of the state's best high school football players.

His father, Doug Randall, said the combine went really well:

The coaches from the colleges and high schools were very positive and offered a lot of tips and advice to the young men including the importance of their high school grades. 

The participants were broken up into smaller specialty groups to work with various college coaches. They were warmed up and given instruction and demonstration in proper technique and then they put those instructions to use in someone on one competition.

At the end of the showcase, the students were given the opportunity to meet one on one with all the coaches and ask questions about the different programs and schools in hopes of cultivating an invitation to play for them. 

Notre Dame's incoming Head Coach Joe Zambito said he's very fortunate to be taking over a team with a player like Mason on it, along with a group of linemen who are all impressive in size and ability.

"We have a really good line coming back Mason is a great student-athlete," Zambito said. "He’s unbelievable to coach and I’m lucky enough that in my first year I get to coach guys like him."

He said Mason's showing at the combines is really impressive.

"He beat some guys who already have Division I scholarships," Zambito said. "It goes to show you how hard he’s worked in the off-season to get himself in shape and in place to become an elite lineman, not only in GR but in New York State.

Mason said it feels great to get the recognition he's received and earning a D1 scholarship is one of his football dreams.

"Division I highest level," Mason said. "I’ve always loved football. My dad’s always loved football and everybody else in my family. Nobody in my family has ever gone D1. I had a couple of grandfathers go D2, but it would be so great to be able to go D1."

A four-foot long alligator was found in a vacant building at 11 Lehigh Ave., on Monday, and picked up by Encon Officer Wilson.

The alligator was initially discovered by Batavia PD but spokesman Investigator Eric Hill said the report didn't indicate how an officer found out about the alligator.

A DEC spokeswoman said the Seneca Park Zoo agreed to house the animal temporarily until it can be relocated to a permitted facility.

The case is still under investigation and she said it's illegal in New York to possess any crocodilian family without permits.

The building's listed owner is RCT Corp. The Batavian emailed a person who might be associated with that company to see if we can get more information.

Photo by Linda Cotter​.

Photo: Joe Marone, on the left, and Phil Pastore on the right. Marone and Pastore were partners in the Pok-A-Dot. Marone died in 2014. Also pictured, James Pero.

Philip Pastore Jr., who owned the Pok-A-Dot, a Batavia institution, for 65 years, passed away Tuesday at the age of 93.

Pastore was proud of his little diner that became legendary throughout the region and unique enough to be featured once on the Travel Channel.

In 2013, when celebrating the restaurant's 60th anniversary, he said, "It’s probably one of the greatest things in my life, to own something for 60 years."

Pastore died peacefully at the United Memorial Medical Center surrounded by his family.

He and Joseph “Trigger” Marone opened the Dot at the corner of Liberty and Ellicott as a hot dog stand in 1953. It quickly became a regular breakfast and lunch spot for locals and as the years went on, drew visitors from throughout the region, famous for its beef on weck.

The Gilmartin Funeral home is currently handling arrangements for the family.

Below is an article by Anne Marie Starowitz about the Pok-A-Dot that she gave The Batavian permission to publish:

Let’s Meet at the Dot: Remembering Philip Pastore

Every building has a story. The Pok-A-Dot has one that involves family, friends, bands, railroad tracks, ‘50s décor and thousands of customers.  All could add a page to the story of the Dot. My page would be going to the Dot in the ‘60s with my brothers and sisters and fighting over the swivel stools at the counter. Today when my brother and sisters’ families come home, the first place they want to eat at is the Dot! 

Prior to the establishment and construction of the “Pok-A-Dot” restaurant at the corner of Liberty Street and Ellicott Street in Batavia, a bandstand occupied the current parcel of land.  It was used for band concerts for the neighborhood residents. With the help of Congressman Harold Ostertag, and John Gioia, owner of Gioia’s Drug, the property was leased to Philip Pastore and Joseph (Trigger) Marone. They built what has been known as the Pok-A-Dot Restaurant.

They dug the foundation for the 20- by 20-foot “box type” wooden building in April 1953.  It was completed on June 6, 1953.  The sides of the building housed flaps, which were pulled down at the end of the business day. They were painted black with multicolored “Pok-A-Dots.” The idea for its name originated when they saw a house painted with polka dots. 

The first day the Pok-A-Dot opened, Philly and Trigger were ready with the cigar cash box, hot dogs and hamburgers for 20 cents and free ice cream.  At the end of their first day, the cigar cash box was overflowing with money. The tired, excited partners were guessing how much money they made at the grand opening. They thought at least $500.00. With eagerness, they began to count all of their money and were surprised that they made only $85.00. 

Added to the original menu of hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream and ice cold root beer served in frosted mugs came “roast Beef on Wick” and a pepper and egg sandwich (the first in Genesee County).  As the business grew, more items were added to the menu. The cooking of the famous Beef on Wick began in Leona Pastore’s kitchen, along with pasta fagioli from the very infancy of the Dot.

The railroad tracks ran right behind the new Pok a Dot building. The tracks were so close you could almost touch the train as it went by. The workers for the railroad enjoyed the Dot and would park the train down by Swan Street unhook the engine and ride it to the back of the Dot and go in for lunch.

Eventually, the building was enclosed with windows, which were removed at the beginning of the warm weather. In 1961 an enclosed dining room was added with red tables and wrought iron chairs. Added to the 1950s décor was a jukebox with the small boxes on the counter.

The Pok-A-Dot became a place for many famous celebrities to sit and unwind after their performances across the street at the well-known Roman Room Restaurant. People like Al Martino, Julius La Rosa, Tony Pastore, Dick Contino and many well- known bandleaders were among them.

When you went into the restaurant, you were not given a menu. Rather the waitress would say, “What can I get you?”  All your choices were on the menu wall. If it wasn’t up there and they could make it, they would. Over the years, many young people worked at the Dot, including all of Mr. Pastore’s six children. The waitresses over the years were very loyal. The current manager Jo Anne has worked at the Dot for over 25 years. Jennifer, Nicole, Lynette, Jo Anne, and Melody make up the rest of the current working staff. You can find some of these ladies working different shifts from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, and from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday. On Sunday the hours are 8 a.m. to 9 p.m..

The Pok-A-Dot has been featured in the book Sunlight Dialogues that was written by Genesee County’s most famous author, John Gardner, who frequented the restaurant as a young man. Each year in October the Pok-A-Dot hosts an evening of readings for the John Gardner Society from the great author’s books. Author and some time reader at these gatherings, Bill Kauffman, stated, “The Pok-A-Dot is the literary capital of Culinary Batavia.” The Pok-A-Dot has also been immortalized in the painting and calendar sketches of Batavia’s well-known artist, John Hodgins. Wanda Frank, a radio personality for WBTA made a CD, Grandpa’s Home for Christmas, which mentions the Pok-A-Dot in her radio play. It seems that the Pok-A-Dot is the setting for more than just a good meal.

To this day, people who grew up in and around the area and then moved away to different parts of the country return and make a special stop to enjoy the Beef on Wick for which the Dot has been famous in the Western NY region for 56 years.

In 1999 a business called Mail Boxes Etc. used a refrigerant technology to send perishable products in the mail. One of these boxes was used when a man came in and wanted to ship overnight a hot pepper sandwich from the Pok-A-Dot as a birthday gift to his brother. The brother used to live here and loved the sandwiches. There are many creative ways to ship the Dot’s food to different places.

T-shirts have been sold with the Pok-A-Dot logo and can be found as far away as California, Florida, Colorado and many more places.

The Pok-A-Dot has been a regular stop for thousands of people who want a good cup of coffee, good food and good conversation. “Meet you at the Dot,” is a well-known expression. You will always find the regulars and then you would find people like me who just go to the Dot to have a Beef on Wick, fries with gravy and root beer in a frosted mug.

In October of 2006, Phil Pastore and Joe Marone were honored at the Paulo Busti Cultural Foundation Brunch for Italians being in business for over 50 years.

October 2014, Joseph “Trigger” Marone died. Batavia mourned his passing.

Batavia mourns again. We lost Philip Pastore on July 17, 2018. Memories are swirling around in everyone’s mind remembering him and the Pok a Dot.  Our hearts go out to the Pastore family. 

Article published in "Back in the Day, Snapshot of Local History, The Way I See It," by Anne Marie Starowitz.

UPDATE: The Travel Channel show that included a segment on the Pok-A-Dot ran in Britain, called "American Times." The Pok-A-Dot appears at minute 29.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18th – Children’s Day/ 4H Family Night - Kids Ride Special 1-5 p.m.

• 9 a.m.         Open Draft Horse Show—Halter Class (Horse Ring)
• 9 a.m.         4-H Meat & Dairy Goat Show (Show Ring) 
• 9 a.m.         Open Class Goat Show (Old Draft Horse Barn)
• 10 a.m.       EXHIBIT HALLS & BUILDINGS OPEN
• 12 p.m.       4-H Sheep Show (Show Ring)
• 12:30 p.m.  Small Fry Tractor Pull (Exhibition Building)
• 1 p.m.         Open Draft Horse Show—Hitch Class (Horse Ring)
• 1-5 p.m.      MIDWAY OPEN for KID’S DAY (Amusement Area)
• 4 p.m.         4-H Hog Show (Show Ring)
• Open Swine Show to Follow 4-H (Show Ring)
• 5-10 p.m.    MIDWAY OPEN (Amusement Area)
• 5-8 p.m.      Car Cruise (East Lawn)
• 6 p.m.         Fair Queen Pageant (Entertainment Tent Stage)
• 10 p.m.       EXHIBIT HALLS & BUILDINGS CLOSE

*This schedule is tentative and is subject to change at any time.*

When 8-year-old Gunnar came to his father and said he didn't want to play tackle football anymore, Otis Thomas listened. He also remembered a commercial for a youth flag football program sponsored by the NFL that he had seen during the Super Bowl a couple of years ago.

Thomas talked with Kevin Rogers and they agreed to apply to the NFL to set up a league in Batavia.

It was a very easy process, they said. The NFL provides a step-by-step guide and the staff is helpful and friendly, they said.

So, Batavia will have an NFL-sponsored flag football program for children ages 5 to 14 this fall; "no contact, 6 on 6."

Thomas said it's not his goal to take anything away from the Batavia Bulldawgs, the local tackle football program, but he believes there are a lot of parents in the community who want to give their children a fun activity and see them learn the sport but don't want to strap a heavy helmet on their heads.

"I don’t want to pull away from anything the Bulldawgs organization has done around Batavia," Thomas said. "I coached for two years. It was good for me. It was good for my son but it’s also good to see other opportunities for other kids that aren’t ready to play contact football."

Both Thomas and Rogers are aware, of course, about the growing concern parents have about football, concussions, and chronic traumatic encephalopathy or CTE. 

"I just wanted my son to play all the sports that I never had a chance to," said Rogers, who didn't come from a football family and didn't play the sport as a child. "Now, as a parent, you sort of see where my parents were coming from growing up, where it’s a little bit more violent of a sport than we’re used to, especially for young kids, ages 5 to 14. Their bodies are still developing. We wanted to start something to give the kids options who want to learn the sport."

The field dimensions are smaller, 30 yards by 70 yards, which will allow the new league to play as many as five games at one time on the varsity football field at Notre Dame High School off of Union Avenue.

The games consist of two 15-minute halves between teams of six players each. They will be played on Sunday mornings so parents can get home in time to watch the Bills. There will be one practice a week -- one hour on Wednesday nights. Each child who signs up, for $65, will get a replica NFL jersey and a pair of flags with their team's logo on it.

There are no helmets.

"I don’t really agree with putting a 5- or a six-year-old or a 7- or 8-year-old in a helmet," said Thomas, who played in Batavia Youth Football as a kid, played in high school, and played semi-pro ball.

"We teach them, 'don’t use your head' but you put that helmet on, it’s a weight. You can see it. Go to any little Pop Warner game and you see a kid running by himself for a touchdown he’s leaning to the left but his body is really wanting to go to the right."

Rogers said he and Thomas have talked to 30 or 40 parents and gotten a lot of positive feedback on the idea, so they're expecting plenty of children to sign up.

They think even though there is no contact, young players will learn key fundamentals of the game that will help them if they decide to play high school football, including the vocabulary of the game, the rules and how plays are run.

The safety aspect of flag football is why Thomas thinks the sport will catch on in the community, though he said it is an individual decision for each parent on whether to sign their kids up for contact football or flag football.

"I love the game but I love the safety and I value my kid's life a little bit more," Thomas said.

The co-ed league is open to boys and girls age 5 to 13 from throughout the area, with divisions for ages 5, 6 and 7, 8 and 9, 10 and 11, and 12 and 14.

Please contact Otis Thomas at (585) 993-0244 or Kevin Rogers at (716) 860-4551 with any questions.

(Thomas and Rogers said they are not aware of any other NFL flag football leagues in WNY. They think the next closest one is in Ohio. They hope other parents will start leagues in neighboring counties.)

There will be registration sessions at:

• Dick's Sporting Goods on Veterans Memorial Drive -- this Saturday, July 21, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Tuesday, July 24, 4 to 7 p.m.;
• Batavia City Centre --  tomorrow, Thursday, July 19, and Thursday, July 26, 4 to 7:30 p.m. both days;
• T.F. Brown's restaurant -- this Saturday, July 21 and the folllowing Saturday, July 28, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days.

The Genesee County Fair for 2018 is underway and one of the big events for the first day yesterday was the fair parade.

There are events all week. Click here for a schedule.

To purchase prints click here.

Daily at the Genesee County Fair: $5 Carload Admission Every Day & Night! *Midway Rides. *Daily Wristband Specials Available. Agricultural Awareness Exhibit * Livestock Exhibits. Container Garden Contest -- Exhibition Building. Chainsaw Carver

TUESDAY, JULY 17th – “Senior Citizen Day”/Rochester Regional Health United Memorial Medical Center. 

• 9 a.m.        4-H Horse Show—Western Classes (Horse Ring)
• 9 a.m.        4-H Market Animal Auction Hog Show (Show Ring)
• 10 a.m.      Open Class Rabbit Show (Merton Building)
• 10 a.m.      EXHIBIT HALLS & BUILDINGS OPEN
• 12 p.m.      4-H Market Animal Auction Lamb Show (Show Ring)
• 1 p.m.        4-H Poultry Showmanship (Merton Building)
• 4 p.m.        4-H Market Animal Auction Dairy Steer Show (Show Ring)
• 4-10 p.m.   Faith at the Fair—Christian Music (Entertainment Tent)
• 5 p.m.        4-H Market Animal Auction Beef Steer Show (Show Ring)
• 5-10 p.m.   MIDWAY OPENS (Amusement Area)
• 6 p.m.        North American Classic Six-Horse Hitch (Horse Ring)
• 6 p.m.        4-H Rabbit Show (Merton Building)
• 10 p.m.      EXHIBIT HALLS & BUILDINGS CLOSE

*This schedule is tentative and is subject to change at any time.*

Submitted photos and press release:

A 2018 Tri-County BEFO program, sponsored by Genesee, Wyoming and Orleans counties concluded on Friday, July 13. Eighteen students completed the 79-hour program from 13 departments across the region.

The Basic Exterior Firefighter Operations (BEFO) program is an entry-level program for the volunteer fire service designed to prepare students to respond to emergencies as exterior firefighters.

Students are instructed in fire extinguishers, building construction, forcible entry, ladder deployment, incident command, drafting operations and hazardous materials operations level. In addition, students are trained in ropes and knots, and first aid/CPR.

A Basic Exterior Firefighter Operations (BEFO) program, sponsored by Genesee County, is scheduled to begin in August. Anyone interested is encouraged to contact your community volunteer fire department or the Genesee County Fire Training Center (585-344-0078).

Participants last Friday included: 

Alabama

• Rebekah J. Allen

Alexander

• Daniel Harris

Attica

• Kaylee Sumeriski

Town of Batavia

• Bryan Moscicki  
• Ian Sanfratello
• Tyler Stewart

Bennington

• Jordon McKinsey
• Grace Schmidt

Bergen

• Tina M. Carson          
• Harrison T. Dodson

Byron

• Paige E. Johnston

Carlton

• Matthew Edick

Castle

• Zachary Dake

Corfu

• Justin Rodland

East Avon

• Jefferson Moon

North Java

• Taylor Guizzotti
• Tyler Shaver

Strykerville

• Matthew Solly

Michael J. Piasta Jr. is indicted for the crime of second-degree robbery, a Class C violent felony. It is alleged that on March 25 at the Arby's restaurant in Batavia, located at 212 W. Main St., that the defendant forcibly stole property and in the course of the commission of a crime or in the immediate flight from it, he allegedly displayed what appeared to be a pistol, revolver or other firearm. In count two, he is indicted for third-degree grand larceny, a Class D felony, for allegedly stealing property on that date that had a value exceeding $3,000. In count three, Piasta is accused of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a second Class D felony, for allegedly possession an imitation pistoal with the intent to use it unlawfully against another person. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Piasta is accused of having been convicted of: third-degree burglary, a Class D felony, on Dec. 20, 2010, in Genesee County Court; petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor, on Sept. 7, 2010, in City of Batavia Court; attempted petit larceny, a Class B misdemeanor, on Jan. 18, 2011, in Town of Batavia Court; attempted failure to pay for service, based on stealth, a Class B misdemeanor, on May 1, 2002, City of Batavia Court; petit larceny again, on July 19, 2001, in City of Batavia Court; and criminal mischief in the fourth degree, a Class A misdemeanor, on April 5, 2001, in City of Batavia Court. These convictions form the basis for Count Three in the current indictment.

Lamont L. Crimes is indicted for the crime second-degree assault, a Class D violent felony. It is alleged that on May 28 in the Town of Elba that, with intent to cause physical injury to another person, Crimes caused injury to another person using a dangerous instrument -- a knife. In count two, the defendant is accused of the same crime involving a second victim.

Jaomi Delgado is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on Dec. 20 in the City of Batavia that Delgado knowingly and unlawfully possessed one or more preparations, compounds, mixtures or substances containing a narcotic -- cocaine -- and these were of an aggregate weight of one-half ounce or more.

Katelyn M. Bennett is indicted from the crime of driving while intoxicated as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on April 11 in the Town of Bergen that Bennett drove a 2011 Chevrolet on state routes 33 and/or 19 while intoxicated. In count two, she is accused of aggravated DWI, per se, as a Class E felony for allegedly having a BAC of .18 or more at the time. In counts three and four, the defendant is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, Class A misdemeanors, for allegedly knowingly and unlawfully possessing, respectively, concentrated cannibas and alprazolam (Xanax). In count five, Bennett is accused of unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle in the third degree, another Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count five that she knew she had been directed to stop by a police officer or marked police vehicle and she attempted to flee at speeds which equaled or exceeded 25 mph above the speed limit, or she engaged in reckless driving (VTL 1212). In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Bennett is accused of having been convicted of operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs, as a misdemeanor, on Dec. 20, 2011, in the Town of Gates and that conviction was within 10 years of the crimes alleged in the current indictment.

Brent J. Chapman is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on May 11 in the Town of Le Roy that Chapman drove a 2006 Lincoln on I-90 while intoxicated. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, the defendant is accused of having been convicted for misdemeanor DWI on March 8, 2016, in the Town of Greece, and that convicted is within 10 years of the crime alleged in the current indictment.

Paul D. Fields Jr. is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated, as a misdemeanor. It is alleged that on Feb. 7 in the Town of Pembroke that Fields drove a 2002 Saturn eastbound on Indian Falls Road while intoxicated. In count two, he is accused of DWI, per se, as a misdemeanor, for allegedly having a BAC of .08 or more at the time. In count three, Fields is accused of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony, for knowing or having reason to know that his driver's license was suspended, revoked or otherwise withdrawn by authorities at the time. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Fields is accused of having been convicted of DWI on April 10, 2006, in City of Batavia Court. That conviction forms the basis for Count Three of the current indictment.