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LIVE: Interview with Anibal Soler, superintendent Batavia city schools

By Howard B. Owens
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We're scheduled to start at noon. We will be talking with Superintendent Anibal Soler about how things are going in Batavia city schools, get a COVID-19 update, talk about "high-risk" sports starting up, reopening Robert Morris, his experience on the Batavia PD stakeholders' group, and the district's new equity policy.

NOTE: The post has been updated with an edited version of the video that cuts out the technical problems at the start of the interview.

Published report has Plug Power building a $264 million 'green hydrogen' facility at STAMP

By Mike Pettinella

Last week it was Samsung. Now, it’s Plug Power.

According to a story in today’s edition of The Buffalo News, the Albany-based Plug Power has disclosed plans to erect five “green hydrogen” plants in the United States, including a $264 million facility at the Western New York Science and Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park in the Town of Alabama.

The plant, which would produce green hydrogen for freight and materials handling equipment, is expected to be in operation by 2024, per the published report.

Previously, it was reported on The Batavian that Samsung is considering the placement of a $17 billion semiconductor plan at STAMP, a venture of the Genesee County Economic Development Center.

GCEDC President/CEO Steve Hyde, responding to an inquiry from The Batavian, issued the following statement, without specifically mentioning Plug Power:

“The Genesee County Economic Development Center recently reached out to our various public sector partners, including the Genesee County Legislature, the Town of Alabama among other local and state partners requesting that the GCEDC take on the role as lead agency for an environmental review of a potential project at STAMP.

“As a result, the GCEDC has completed extensive site readiness for the 1,250-acre STAMP site, including all site-level environmental, archeological, wetland delineation, and zoning requirements. This enables site selectors and prospective tenants to conduct effective due diligence as they evaluate projects at STAMP.

“We are very excited about this significant economic development opportunity for our community and look forward to working with our public sector partners during the due diligence by Project Gateway, as we have on dozens of other economic development projects in Genesee County over the last several years.”

Currently, there are no tenants at the 1,250-acre business park, although county officials have indicated that many companies are looking at the site.

Other highlights of The Buffalo News story:

  • Plug Power would begin construction this March, with an expected completion in December 2022, creating 62 full-time jobs with an average salary of $75,000 plus benefits;
  • An award of $1.5 million to support the venture has been recommended by the Western New York Power Proceeds Allocation Board;
  • In its application, Plug Power said it uses a process called electrolysis … leading to “zero-emission freight transport and logistics handling equipment utilizing fuel-cells and clean energy manufactured in New York.” The company said it will be the first of its kind in the Northeast, and would lead to other businesses moving to STAMP.
  • Plug Power will request $2 million from Empire State Development, and a package of sales and property tax abatements through the GCEDC.

Legislative committee approves plan to refinance county serial bond debt to achieve significant savings

By Mike Pettinella

Whether you call it “refunding” or “refinancing,” Genesee County stands to save a pile of money by consolidating a couple loans and reworking the payment plan.

Speaking at the Genesee County Legislature’s Ways & Means Committee meeting via Zoom videoconferencing this afternoon, County Treasurer Scott German said the municipality may have the opportunity to save more than $20,000 in interest costs over the next 13 years.

“It’s called refunding, but for us, regular folks, it’s refinancing,” German said. “We’re going to refinance two of our existing debts.”

The two debts in question, both Public Improvement Serial Bonds, are from 2009 and 2014, totaling $2,050,000 and $4,745,847, respectively.

German said there are four years left on the 2009 debt, but “doing that one by itself wouldn’t be worth it because the cost would be prohibitive.”

So, working with Financial Advisors of Syracuse and the bond counsel firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe of New York City, the county is prepared to put the two loans together and, if interest rates are favorable when the time comes to refinance in September, it could result in a net savings of $263,819.63.

“We technically can’t refinance that until September, so all we’re doing right now is taking care of all the paperwork – getting that out of the way – so when the market looks good in September, we’ll go to market,” he said. “If the rates go up between now and then, we won’t do it. We’ll just pull it.”

Committee members approved a resolution authorizing the debt consolidation with the goal of realizing a savings in interest fees.

In other action, the committee recommended approval of an affiliation agreement with Brockport State College for Rebecca Nigro to participate in and complete an internship that will help her complete her master’s degree in Public Administration.

It was reported that Nigro is in her last semester and is carrying a 3.95 grade-point average.

The college approved the internship as long as the county had someone with a master’s degree to oversee Nigro’s activity. Nigro works for the county, serving as the supervisor/cluster care for the Department of Social Services.

Hawley again calls for hearings on undercounting of nursing homes' COVID-19 deaths

By Press Release

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley is reiterating his demands for legislative hearings into the Cuomo Administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in nursing homes following a press conference held by legislative colleagues today regarding a bombshell report from the Attorney General’s Office.

It revealed the department was undercounting COVID-19 deaths in nursing homes by as much as 50 percent.

Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay, Senate Minority Leader Robert Ortt, “Fox and Friends” co-host Janice Dean and a Capital Region family who lost their loved one to COVID-19 in a nursing home last April were all in attendance.

Additionally, Hawley is demanding a termination of the governor’s emergency powers, and also requesting that his colleagues in the Majority compel administration officials to attend legislative hearings on the matter by issuing subpoenas against them.

“I am hopeful that seeing the real pain the governor’s wrongdoings brought to an everyday family will be an eye-opener for my colleagues in the Majority and compel them to take getting to the bottom of this matter seriously,” Hawley said.

“It has become too obvious to ignore that efforts were made to actively hide the severity of this tragedy, and I am hopeful this week’s shocking developments will spur those in the Majority to do what’s right for those who lost their loved ones.”

Law and Order: Batavia man accused of lobbing lit bottle of flammable liquid on Osterhout Avenue

By Billie Owens

Charles J. Rodriguez Sr., 44, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with first-degree arson. His arrest on Feb. 2 stemmed from an incident at 6:25 p.m. Nov. 26 on Osterhout Avenue in the City of Batavia. It is alleged that Rodriguez lit a bottle of flammable liquid and threw it at the front window of a residence on that street, breaking the window. The bottle did not go into the residence but it did cause a fire. An uninvolved person was inside the residence at the time and Rodriguez allegedly knew the person was in there. There was minor damage to the residence but no one was injured. The defendant was arraigned virtually in Batavia City Court and is due there on Feb. 25. The case was investigated by Batavia Police Det. Eric Hill.

Phllip Mitchell Gambino, 25, of School Street, Batavia is charged with second-degree menacing. He was arrested on Jan. 27 after an investigation of a disturbance call at Walmart at 2:58 p.m. on Jan. 20. It is alleged he menaced another person with a knife during a verbal altercation in the store's parking lot. Gambino was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to be in Batavia Town Court on Feb. 11. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Mathew Clor, assisted by Deputy Kevin Forsyth.

Patrick John Frawley, 58, of Breck Street, Rochester, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. At 10:07 p.m. on Jan. 30, Frawley was arrested at the Quality Inn & Suites on Park Road in Batavia for allegedly violating a stay away order of protection. He "was held at the Genesee County Jail for arraignment," which is set for Feb. 22. Bail, if any, was not specified. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Jacob Gauthier, assisted by Deputy Mathew Clor.

Cecilio Alonzo-Martinez, 33, of Burke Hill Road, Perry, is charged with operating a motor vehicle while having a BAC of .08 percent or higher, and driving while intoxicated. At 2:28 a.m. on Jan. 31, Alonzo-Martinez was arrested after an investigation of a vehicle stopped in the roadway on Route 19 in the Town of Bergen. He was released on an appearance ticket and was due in Bergen Town Court this afternoon (Feb. 3). The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore, assisted by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun.

Adrian Ramone Taylor, 42, of Upper Falls Boulevard, Rochester, is charged with third-degree criminal trespass. At 4:51 p.m. on Jan. 28, Genesee County Sheriff's deputies responded to Walmart following a trespassing complaint. Following an investigation, Taylor was arrested after leaving the scene. It is alleged Taylor entered Walmart after its corporate office banned him from entering all store locations because of a previous incident involving him (unspecified). He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia Town Court on Feb. 25. The case was handled by Deputy Erik Andre, assisted by Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush.

Rath calls for investigation into nursing home 'data coverup'

By Press Release

Press release:

“It is completely unacceptable that the scheduled Department of Health (DOH) COVID-19 hearing was canceled. I joined my colleagues this morning in a press conference to demand answers and I believe that Senator (Thomas) O’Mara’s subpoena of Howard Zucker (NYS commissioner of Health) is critical. We need a full investigation into this nursing home data coverup.

“The DOH is fully aware that there are many answers that the public needs. Unfortunately, they are trying to avoid answering tough questions by postponing the hearing until the end of the month. We need to hold them accountable.

"Between the flawed rollout of the vaccine distribution to the cover-up of nursing home deaths, to say there is a lot that needs to be discussed is an understatement. The public deserves answers and accountability and what we are seeing is far from that.”

Genesee County SCOPE issues ratings for County Court candidates

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

The membership of SCOPE, Genesee County Chapter, has had the opportunity to interview both candidates running for Genesee County Court Judge, to replace retiring Honorable Charles Zambito -- Melissa Cianfrini and William Zickl.

Both individuals have impressive educational credentials and work records. Cianfrini has an extensive history mostly in civil litigation with some experience at the Genesee County’s District Attorney’s Office. Zickl's major area of expertise has been in criminal law working with the Genesee County District Attorney’s Office for several years and recently moving to the County Court as Judge Zambitos’ assistant. 

Being an independent organization, SCOPE reviews qualifications and work history only. Bearing this in mind, and after a thorough review of both individuals' history, we have made the following determination.

As a result of his work experience, and knowledge of criminal law, along with his longstanding service to the community, we would rate Zickl with an A+. Cianfrini's lack of work experience in this field would be rated at a C level. 

We wish both candidates good luck in their future endeavors.

Twenty new COVID-19 cases reported today in Genesee County

By Press Release

Data Update –

  • Genesee County received 20 new positive cases of COVID-19.
    • The new positive cases reside in the:
      • Central Region (Alexander, Batavia, Bethany, Elba, Oakfield) 
      • East Region (Bergen, Byron, Le Roy, Pavilion, Stafford)
  • The individuals are in their 0-19s, 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s.  
  • Twenty-one of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list.  
  • Twenty-two of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.
  • We are very sad to report the COVID-related death of one of our county residents. The individual was over the age of 65. We will not be reporting any further information to protect the privacy of the individual and their family. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of this individual at this very sad time.
  • We are saddened to report the COVID-related death of a resident of the Batavia VA Medical Center. The individual was over the age of 65. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of this individual at this very sad time.

 

Orleans County received 30 new positive cases of COVID-19.  

  • The positive cases reside in the:
    • West Region (Yates, Ridgeway, Shelby)
    • Central Region (Carlton, Gaines, Albion, Barre)
    • East Region (Kendall, Murray, Clarendon)
  • The individuals are in their 0-19s, 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.
  • Four of the new positive individuals were on quarantine prior to testing positive.
  • Ten of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list.
  • Four of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.
  • Seven of the new positive individuals are residents at Orchard Rehabilitation & Nursing Center.
  • One of the new positive individuals is a resident at the Villages of Orleans Health & Rehab.
  • One of the new positive individuals is an inmate at the Albion Correctional Facility.

Jacobs calls for COVID nursing home investigation in New York

By Press Release

Press release:

Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) joined the entire New York Republican Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to Acting Attorney General (Robert M. "Monty") Wilkinson requesting the Department of Justice immediately issue subpoenas for Governor Cuomo, the Secretary to the Governor, the New York State Commissioner of Health, and their staff on all documentation and communications related to their nursing home policies during the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to a thorough update on the Civil Rights Division's inquiry into New York State's handling of the COVID-19 crisis in nursing homes.

"Attorney General (Letitia “Tish”) James’ report proved what we have suspected for months," Congressman Jacobs said. "The actions of Governor Cuomo, Commissioner (Howard) Zucker, and administration officials have obscured the toll of the Governor's mandate forcing COVID-positive patients back into nursing homes with other high-risk elderly individuals.

"He had a duty to ‘follow the science’ and protect the most vulnerable in our population. Instead, his order can only be categorized as a failure in leadership and a betrayal of public trust. Rather than take responsibility for his actions, and work transparently to correct such a disastrous mistake, Governor Cuomo and his administration have tried to shift blame and obstruct elected officials pursuing the truth. A full and thorough federal investigation into this cover-up must be conducted, and those responsible must be held accountable.

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21) said "Today, my colleagues and I continue the fight towards justice for the people of New York. We will work to ensure that Acting Attorney General Wilkinson and President Biden support this pursuit for the truth about Governor Cuomo and his administration, considering the scathing evidence presented in Attorney General James' recent report. Tens of thousands of innocent people in our great state died, and unlike the Governor, we care.” 

Congressman Lee Zeldin (NY-1) said "The families and loved ones who lost parents and grandparents and so many other New Yorkers care deeply about the Governor's attempts to cover up the true consequences of his fatally flawed nursing home policy. In light of the Governor's own Attorney General's report, it's clear that what happened here is criminal. These families and New Yorkers demand further answers and accountability, and we won't rest until they get it."

Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) said “For months, my colleagues and I have pushed for an independent investigation into Governor Cuomo’s mishandling of nursing homes that led to thousands of deaths during this pandemic. Even after there were alternative facilities to treat COVID-positive patients, the governor mandated nursing homes take COVID-positive patients even if they couldn’t care for them.

"Now, we learn that his department of health covered up the true number of lives lost and underreported it by thousands. In October, the Department of Justice announced that it was administering an inquiry into this matter, and I sincerely hope their investigation continues independently without any interference from the Biden Administration.” 

Congressman Andrew Garbarino (NY-2) said “I am grateful that the Department of Justice launched an investigation into Governor Cuomo’s reckless handling of the COVID-19 nursing home outbreak. The great people of New York’s 2nd Congressional District sent me to Washington to fight for them, and I am proud to join my colleagues in demanding justice for every Long Islander who lost a loved one due to these failed policies."

Congressman Tom Reed (NY-23) said “Thousands of New York families who lost a parent or grandparent due to New York’s disastrous nursing home policies deserve nothing less than full transparency and accountability. If the Biden administration and their Department of Justice are truly committed to following the spirit of independence and impartiality, they should join with us as we work to further uncover the depths of Governor Cuomo and New York State’s incompetence. It is the only remedy to ensuring such horrific public health mistakes never happens again.” 

Virtually this month at HLOM: History Trivia Night and Java with Joe E.

By Press Release

Press release:

On Thursday, Feb. 11th at 7 p.m. the Holland Land Office Museum will be hosting its next edition of its Virtual History Trivia Night at the Museum. The topic for the month of February will be Abraham Lincoln, in honor of his birthday and President’s Day.

The program will be conducted via Zoom. If you would like to join and test your knowledge of the 16th President visit the museum’s Facebook page or website, www.hollandlandoffice.com for the login details.

On Thursday, Feb. 25th at 9 a.m. the Holland Land Office Museum will be hosting its next edition of its Virtual Java with Joe E. morning presentations. This month we welcome back local author Greg Van Dussen as he shares excerpts from his latest works on the early Methodist Church.

His latest works that will be covered are: "Circuit Riders on the Road to Glory" and "Circuit Rider Devotions Vol. 2." Both books are also available for sale in the museum bookstore.

The program will be conducted via Zoom. Please visit the museum’s Facebook page or website, www.hollandlandoffice.com for the login details.

For more information please call the museum at (585) 343-4727 or email at:  hollandlandoffice@gmail.com

People with disabilities urged to tell elected officials their views on issues

By Press Release

Press release:

Western New York Independent Living Inc. (WNYIL) is participating in the New York Association for Independent Living (NYAIL)’S 2021 Virtual Legislative Education Week from Feb. 8 to 12.

People with disabilities in the Western New York area will have the opportunity to speak with local, state, and federal elected officials and make their representatives aware of the issues that are important to them!

Elected officials confirmed to participate so far include: Assemblymembers Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes, Stephen Hawley, Pat Burke, Angelo J. Morinello, Karen McMahon, David DiPietro, Monica Wallace, Michael Norris, William Conrad, and Jonathan Rivera and State Senators Patrick M. Gallivan and Robert G. Ortt.

Even before the coronavirus pandemic prompted restrictions on businesses which greatly decreased employment and tax revenues, New York State had a multi-billion-dollar budget shortfall, which the leaders seemed intent on reducing somewhat by cutting back on programs, services and legal protections for the State's citizens with disabilities.

That temptation has only been increased by the pandemic’s circumstances. Legislators will soon be meeting to hammer out details of the State Budget, which is due to be finished on April 1.

Participants wishing to hear from, and talk to, their representatives can use the Zoom Meeting online platform OR call in to speak with the elected officials participating. Register by Feb. 6 for these virtual meetings by contacting Jillian Moss at (716) 836-0822, ext. 146, or by email at jmoss@wnyil.org.

The Western New York Independent Living Inc. Family of Agencies offer an expanding array of services to aid individuals with disabilities to take control of their own lives.

WNY Tech Academy students chose their path to reach career goals on Decision Day last week

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

Some life choices are difficult and some are simple. For eight students who attend the Western New York (WNY) Tech Academy, their choices are leading them in the next step toward their career goals.

On Jan. 26 and 28, these eight WNY Tech Academy 11th-grade students selected their college pathway in which they wish to concentrate on: Accounting, Entrepreneurship, Marketing and Social Media, and Supply Chain Management.

Due to a hybrid schedule, the event was held over the course of two days with two students joining remotely.

“Each student completed a number of self-interest surveys and personality quizzes to learn more about themselves and how they like to work," said Lindsay Warner, the WNY Tech Academy Work-based learning coordinator and a Business teacher. 

"Although the pandemic has prevented us from exploring careers on site this year, this group has prepared for the essential steps in securing a job by developing resumes and cover letters. Each student applied and completed a mock interview with the help of HR professionals, program mentors, and longtime supporters Rebecca McGee of Liberty Pumps and Michelle Hoffman of Bonduelle.”

Joe Englebert, interim principal of the WNY Tech Academy, noted how these students have advanced their skills and are ready to move to the next step in their academic track.

“These eight students are ready to advance their academic career with the selection of their college pathway," Englebert said. "I am confident that each of these students will be a success as they pursue their college degree."

The WNY Tech Academy is a Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH), supporting students grades 9-14. This school serves 13 regional school districts through a curriculum that places a strong emphasis on hands-on, project-based learning to prepare students for high-skill, financially stable careers in growth industries.

Students attending the WNY Tech Academy will complete all necessary coursework for a New York State Regents Diploma as well as earn an Associate of Applied Science degree through Genesee Community College at no cost.

The Genesee Community College (GCC) Accelerated College Enrollment Program (ACE) is a partnership between GCC and Western New York high schools to provide college courses to secondary students during the school day. These programs offer accelerated high school students the opportunity to enroll in college level courses and to earn college credits from GCC while still in high school. 

“After about two years of learning about the degree programs offered through WNY Tech Academy and GCC, the students are now making the commitment to one program and what we hope will be a very successful career," said Ed Levinstein, GCC ACE programs associate dean.

"This is a huge step for anyone to take, especially for an 11th-grader. Once they finish 12th grade at WNY Tech Academy, these students will take the rest of their courses at GCC. With the help of the WNY Tech Academy administration, the ACE Programs staff and several dedicated faculty advisors, students will complete their degree and be ready for work.

"GCC’s role in this is to provide whatever support we can to WNY Tech Academy and each student including tutoring, advising and encouragement. We are proud to be part of this program that has already graduated several students who are now working in their chosen field or furthering their studies.”

Preston Bell is an 11th-grader from Dansville Central School who is enrolled in this program.

“When I learned about the WNY Tech Academy from my home school, I thought this would be a good opportunity for me," Preston said. "I plan to finish my college degree and then enter the military."

The WNY Tech Academy is a program of Genesee Valley BOCES (Board of Cooperative Educational Services).

The academy students and their home schools are: 

  • Preston Bell (Dansville)
  • Isabelle Bradshaw (Avon)
  • Jesse Churchill (Caledonia-Mumford)
  • AJ Galligan (Warsaw)
  • Koi Hennig (Dansville)
  • Mackenzie Jacobs (Dansville)
  • Erik Schwab (Le Roy) and
  • Emma Will (Byron-Bergen)

Photo, from left, WNY Tech Academy 11th-graders: Preston Bell, Mackenzie Jacobs, Isabelle Bradshaw and Erik Schwab.

City of Batavia police reform plan issued for public comment

By Press Release

Press release:

Following the completion of the DRAFT City of Batavia Police Reform Plan it was presented to City Council for their input and subsequently made available to the public for further input.

The City has created a feedback form on the City’s website to receive written comments. The Plan and form can be located here:

https://www.batavianewyork.com/police-department/webforms/city-of-batavia-police-reform-plan

Please take the time to review the Plan and submit your comments as they relate directly to the plan.

Winter storm watch issues for Friday night and Saturday

By Howard B. Owens

A winter storm watch has been issued for Western New York starting Friday, with Genesee County included in the area that could see as much as nine inches of lake effect snow.

The watch is in effect from Friday afternoon through late Saturday night, with the heaviest lake effect snow expected Friday night into Saturday.

Wind gusts could reach 45 mph, which could mean considerable blowing and driving snow making travel difficult.

Visibility could also be reduced.

City school board OKs new policy and steps for achieving greater 'Equity, Inclusivity, and Diversity'

By Press Release

Press release:

Last week, the Batavia City School District Board of Education unanimously approved the addition of an Equity, Inclusivity, and Diversity in Education Policy (8140) and regulation (8140R).

This new policy outlines the process for achieving educational equity in the district and will help to eliminate barriers that hinder every student’s success. The aim of this policy is to provide equitable, inclusive and diverse opportunities for all students to reach their highest potential.

The Board of Education and Superintendent believe that every student has the right to an equitable educational experience and a sense of belonging at school. The Equity, Inclusivity and Diversity in Education policy is an essential step forward for BCSD in fulfilling that promise to all students.

Educational equity in Batavia strives to ensure that all students have equal access to courses, teachers, school environments, regardless of a student’s race or ethnicity, socio-economic status, religion, sexual orientation or native language.

This policy also places a premium on differentiating resource allocation within budgetary limitations, to meet the needs of students who require more supports and opportunities to succeed academically.

The Equity, Inclusivity, and Diversity in Education Policy allows BCSD to continue to move in a direction that reflects a community that is diverse, equitable and inclusive to all students in our learning community.

Board of Education President Alice Ann Benedict agrees that “this commitment to BCSD will impact every corner of our district from our curriculum, to our teaching and our staff, our Board of Education, and Administrators, making it imperative that we approach every situation with adiversity lens in a quest for equity and inclusion for all members of our community.”

As the district moves forward and takes courageous steps needed to promote educational equity, the Superintendent will be charged with reviewing and monitoring the progress of the district’s equity goals, and will share an annual report with the BCSD community informing all stakeholders of the district’s overall progress.

For more information you can view the new policy and regulation here:

**********************************************************************************

COVID-19 vaccines to be given at 32 CVS pharmacies statewide, including Batavia, starting Feb. 11

By Press Release

Press release:

Building on the company’s comprehensive efforts to help slow the spread of the virus, CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) will begin to administer COVID-19 vaccines to eligible populations on Thursday, Feb. 11, at 32 CVS Pharmacy locations across New York, including Batavia.

For CVS Pharmacy locations that will begin to offer COVID-19 vaccinations on Feb. 11, appointments will become available for booking as early as Feb. 9 as stores receive shipments of vaccine.

Supply for the limited rollout in the state, which is sourced directly from the federal pharmacy partnership program, will be approximately 20,600 total doses.

Participating CVS Pharmacies are in communities throughout New York, including Batavia, Bethpage, Clinton, Cooperstown, Eastchester, Glenville, Hamburg, Hudson Falls, Kingston, Mattituck, Owego, Queensbury, Saratoga Springs, Stony Point and Westfield.

As more supply becomes available the company will expand to more locations and offer additional appointments. 

“One of our greatest strengths as a company is our presence in communities across the country, which makes us an ideal partner for administering vaccines in a safe, convenient, and familiar manner,” said Karen S. Lynch, president and chief executive officer, CVS Health. “We continue to be grateful for the commitment of our frontline colleagues whose dedication has allowed us to deliver care and peace of mind throughout the pandemic.”

Vaccines at participating CVS Pharmacy locations in New York will be available to individuals meeting state criteria, which will confirmed by the state in advance of the rollout.

Patients must register in advance at CVS.com or through the CVS Pharmacy app, and people without online access can contact CVS customer service: (800) 746-7287. Walk-in vaccinations without an appointment will not be provided.

The availability of COVID-19 vaccines in New York is part of an initial 11 state rollout and includes approximately 335 CVS Pharmacy locations across California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia. Vaccines will eventually be available at CVS Pharmacy locations throughout the country subject to product availability, with the capacity to administer 20 – 25 million shots per month.

In addition to making COVID-19 vaccines available in local pharmacy locations, CVS Health continues to make progress in its effort to vaccinate residents and staff at more than 1,200 long-term care facilities across New York. As made clear by regularly updated data CVS Health makes publicly available, first doses at all facilities in the state that selected CVS Health to provide COVID-19 vaccinations will be complete by mid-February with second doses well underway.

Multimedia assets, including b-roll and still photography from long-term care facility and in-store COVID-19 vaccinations, are available here. More information on steps CVS Health has taken to address the pandemic is available at the company's frequently updated COVID-19 resource center.

About CVS Health

CVS Health is a different kind of health care company. We are a diversified health services company with nearly 300,000 employees united around a common purpose of helping people on their path to better health. In an increasingly connected and digital world, we are meeting people wherever they are and changing health care to meet their needs.

Built on a foundation of unmatched community presence, our diversified model engages one in three Americans each year. From our innovative new services at HealthHUB® locations, to transformative programs that help manage chronic conditions, we are making health care more accessible, more affordable and simply better. Learn more about how we're transforming health at www.cvshealth.com.

Children playing on train tracks in Bergen prompts dispatch of deputies

By Billie Owens

Sheriff's deputies are responding to the railroad tracks behind Ralph & Rosie's Delicatessen at 19 N. Lake Road, Bergen, for a report of children playing on the tracks.

Of course, trains have been running there today.

UPDATE 2:13 p.m.: The deputy is clearing the scene and says CSX is in the area.

City fire issues 2020 summary after evaluating services and programs

By Press Release

Press release:

As 2020 has drawn to a close, the City of Batavia Fire Department has evaluated the services and programs provided throughout the year in its continuous quality improvement process.

According to Fire Chief Stefano Napolitano, “the current pandemic has forced the department to implement a number of significant changes to our operational model and service delivery. Our service to the public remains our main mission.

"We are here to serve and these changes ensure that we are able to continue to provide the highest levels of service during this most unsettling time. Our ability to maintain our core mission and essential services such as fire protection and emergency medical services hinges on the ability of our staff to respond in the most efficient and sensible way possible while ensuring the health and safety of fire department staffing.”

Here's the summary for 2020:

  • Total Incidents -- 2,264
  • Fires -- 55 (vehicle, cooking, chimney, vegetation, forest, brush, rubbish, dumpster, outside equipment)
  • Building Fires -- 7
  • Overpressure Rupture, Explosion, Overheating -- 8
  • Rescue & Emergency Medical Services -- 1,451
  • Motor-vehicle Accidents -- 68
  • Elevator Rescue -- 3
  • Ice Rescue -- 1
  • Swift Water Rescue -- 2
  • Hazardous Conditions -- 120
  • Service Calls -- 120
  • Good Intent Calls -- 85
  • False Alarm & False Calls -- 310
  • Special incident Type -- 5
  • Mutual Aid Given -- 29

Busiest Month -- January

Busiest Day -- Wednesday

Busiest Time of Day -- 7 to 8 p.m.

Slowest Month -- April

Slowest Day -- Saturday

Slowest Time of Day -- 2 to 3 a.m.

Response Time (dispatched to on-scene arrival)

8 minutes or less -- 100 percent

6 minutes or less -- 88 percent

4 minutes or less -- 53 percent

Number of times of two or more simultaneous calls -- 454

In addition to answering calls for service, the City of Batavia Fire Department conducted the following Community Risk Reduction (CRR) services and programs.

  • Fire Prevention Programs -- 1,656 Points of Contact
  • Fire Extinguisher Training -- 720 Points of Contact
  • Smoke Detector Installations -- 27
  • Carbon Monoxide Detector installations -- 7
  • Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Detector Battery Installs -- 25
  • Car seat Inspection/Installation -- 72
  • Car Seat Replacements -- 7
  • Fire hydrants Flushed & Maintained -- 128
  • Fire Hydrants Flow Tested -- 12
  • Inspections, Commercial -- 354
  • Inspections, Multi-family -- 42

Overall, the total call volume for the year was down by approximately 5 percent as a result of the coronavirus pandemic especially during the first and second quarters of the year. However, at this time, call volume for the current year are trending higher.

Lastly, the Fire Department would like to express their thanks to the many individuals and businesses who have shown support throughout the past year.

As always, you can contact the City of Batavia Fire Headquarters for any questions that you may have at (585) 345-6375.

Local pediatrician, school superintendents share views on distance learning and athletics

By Howard B. Owens
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            Dr. Lalit Jain

Pandemic protocols at schools have been devastating on students, a pediatrician told reporters during a Zoom videoconference call on Tuesday.

Dr. Lalit Jain, chief of pediatrics at United Memorial Medical Center, said some students are falling behind and that the resumption of winter sports considered "high-risk" for the spread of COVID-19, such as basketball, will be of significant benefit to participants.

"(Taking students out of sports) affects them because you are getting social isolation, and like I mentioned, it affects them academically," Jain said. "Just by going out, they will be seeing friends in a safe environment. I think just participating and more activity is going to be very beneficial for the mental health ... of our students."

Local school superintendents seem to agree that the increase in available athletics for students will benefit the children.

"The return of sports safely is a tremendous help for our student-athletes' psyche and those benefits will translate into other areas of their school and community experience," said Anibal Soler Jr., Batavia City School District superintendent.

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          Matthew Calderon

"I wholeheartedly agree that participation in sports and extracurricular activities helps students in every way," said Matthew Calderon, superintendent of Pembroke Central schools.

Jain expressed concern about the decrease in physical activity, the lack of social contact, and the general academic performance of students participating in distance learning.

Superintendents we spoke with shared mixed views on the impact of distance learning on students.

Jain said, "What we see is that kids are having problems with the online platform, a lot of them, because the kids who were before doing fantastic, who were A students, are now having difficulty sustaining attention from home and almost have seen some become school failures, or like grades going from the 90s to almost the 60s.

"And these are the kids without academic difficulties. So we are not even talking about the kids who are challenged, who need special help, and they are even more affected."

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              Merritt Holly

Le Roy Central School Superintendent Merritt Holly characterized Jain's quote as "loaded." 

"I think some students have adapted well to the challenges of online learning," Holley said.

He said there are "some who struggle somewhat (would rather be in the classroom), and others who this system does not fit their learning style (struggle big-time). Really a student-by-student situation."

During the school board meeting Monday, while discussing reconfiguring the use of space in schools, Soler suggested distance learning might remain an option for some students after the pandemic subsides. In response to Jain's comment, he said some students do well while others struggle.

"The pandemic has impacted all of our students and our staff and we continue to try to find ways to support everyone either academically or socially," Soler said. "Social-emotional learning is one of our district goals and we knew that the lack of socialization would ultimately have an impact on our kids and staff.

"The numerous COVID rules that we have to implement have changed much of the experience for both our students and staff, but we continue to do as much as we can safely to bring a sense of normalcy."

In Pembroke, Calderon said, where most students participate in classrooms five days a week, the students who do participate in distance learning seem to struggle the most.

"By no means is online learning or the hybrid model anywhere close to providing students the sound basic education that the New York State Constitution entitles them to receive," Calderon said. "While teachers and support staff throughout our region are doing an amazing job within those parameters, and many students are holding their own, there is no substitute for organic in-person learning."

Calderon said about 20 percent of the district's students are participating in online learning and he's thankful the option exists for those who need it but the situation isn't ideal.

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        Anibal Soler Jr.

"Our in-person learners love being in school, and many of them shed tears when they're told they need to go online for 10-14 days due to mandatory quarantines," Calderon said. "In regard to those who chose the 100-percent online option, a very small percentage are actually flourishing as they could be, and too many choose not to log on consistently despite all efforts to engage them. This may prove to be most problematic for some seniors who will not graduate as a result."

Calderon didn't mince words sharing his opinion about online learning.

"There is no way anyone will ever convince me that online learning is good for kids. and it certainly isn't sustainable," he said.

At the same time, he said, the district obviously takes seriously the need to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and the district does all it can to keep the community safe.

"However," he said, "CDC hospitalization data seems to suggest that school-aged students are least at risk to be hospitalized, and therefore, I'm not sure why schools have some of the greatest restrictions in place.

"I'm obviously not a medical professional or in charge of public health, and in my role as a state-funded public school leader, I make sure our school district adheres to all the rules. At the same time, when I look at the data with my own eyes, I certainly scratch my head and wonder."

Citing similar data, Jain said he anticipates the return of "high-risk" sports to be safe for participants.

"Just following the guidelines by physicians and the authorities, I think of that will be really important," Jain said. "I don't think we're going to see that much increase in the (positivity) rate. The schools have been very safe so I think we'll do fine."

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