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La Rosa Villas in Le Roy offers on-site support services for older adults -- and good times, too

By Press Release

Submitted photos and press release:

From movie nights to crafts, it’s been a fun-filled start to 2021 at La Rosa Villas in Le Roy!

Situated on the site of the former Lapp Lumber Mill on Mill Street across from Oatka Creek in Genesee County, DePaul’s La Rosa Villas feature 60 units for individuals 55 years old and above.

The community includes six studio, 48 one-bedroom and six two-bedroom apartments.

Thirty of the units have on-site supportive services, which promote stability, health and independent living for persons with histories of unstable housing.

There are 20 ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act compliant) and three Hearing and Visually Accessible (HVA) units in the building. For more information about La Rosa Villas, click here.

Pictured, Shelley Gillman (inset photo above left) wears a homemade New Year’s Eve hat, and Cindy Barber (inset photo above right) shows off her beaded snowflake craft.

Jacobs critical of COVID bill, doesn't do enough for farmers in NY-27

By Press Release

Press release:

Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) released the following statement after the House Committee on Agriculture met today to consider the agriculture portion of the proposed COVID-19 budget reconciliation package. 

"This legislation was crafted unilaterally without any input from the Republican members serving on the Agriculture Committee. While there is some good in the bill, it contains many unrelated, partisan provisions that fail to meet the needs of our farmers and my calls for targeted, bipartisan relief.

"In my district alone, there are over 4,400 farms who produce 22 percent of New York State's total agriculture sales. Western New York farmers supply schools around the country with dairy and supply grocery stores throughout the United States with produce, meat and eggs. The impact of NY-27 farmers on our country is significant, yet we have not held one hearing to assess the current needs of farmers, and my Republican colleagues and I were not consulted. 

“Republicans offered several amendments that would improve this legislation by supporting small producers, restarting the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program halted by the President and redirecting money toward high-speed internet in rural communities. Democrats rejected these amendments, once again refusing to work with us to craft a bipartisan package.

"It is my hope this does not become the norm for this committee for the 117th Congress, but rather we work together to support America’s oldest and most substantial industry."

Jacobs has served on the House Committee on Agriculture since his election in June during the 116th Congress. He was reappointed for the 117th Congress in January of this year.

Section V announces post-season tournament structure for high-risk winter sports

By Press Release

Press release:

On Wednesday, Feb. 10, the Section V Athletic Council met and determined the tournament structure for winter high-risk sports.

The team sports of boys basketball, girls basketball, and ice hockey will have a closed sectional tournament in which only the top eight teams in each classification will make their sectional tournament. Wrestling will hold class sectional tournaments starting on March 12.

The Fall II Sports Season (which includes boys volleyball, competitive cheerleading, football, and girls volleyball) will begin on March 1, and the regular season will end on April 23. Sectionals must be completed by May 2.

Indoor Track & Field is now looking to host a sectional tournament starting on Thursday, March 4.

Pavilion's library offers 'round-the-clock Wi-Fi, plus free use of computers when open

By Press Release

Submitted image and press release:

Now more than ever, it’s important to be able to connect to the internet so the Hollwedel Memorial Library has a Wi-Fi area that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“We know that not everyone has access to the internet, and especially during the COVID pandemic, residents have been using our Wi-Fi and computers for all sorts of tasks,” says Josselyn Borowiec, library director. “We want everyone to know that when we are not open, they can still pull into our parking lot Wi-Fi area and connect at any time of the day or night.”

Residents can also use the computer stations inside the library that have popular software and provide access to the internet at no charge.

Information about the many programs and services available at the library can be found on the library’s website at www.HollwedelLibrary.org. Residents with questions can also contact the library by phone at (585) 584-8843 or stop by 5 Woodrow Drive in Pavilion. 

Current hours are: Monday and Wednesday 2 to 7 p.m. / Friday 1 to 5 p.m. / Saturday 10 a.m. to noon / Closed Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.

Photo: Hollwedel Library Director Josselyn Borowiec demonstrates using the library’s Wi-Fi in the Wi-Fi area designated by the signs in front of the building.

Assembly Minority acts to subpoena health commissioner to testify about COVID-19 nursing home deaths

By Press Release

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley joined his colleagues in the Assembly Minority in a press conference calling on members of the Assembly Oversight, Health and Aging committees to sign a petition that would trigger the delivery of a subpoena to New York State Commissioner of Health Dr. Howard A. Zucker to testify and provide all data on nursing home deaths occurring during the coronavirus pandemic.

The subpoena would also request all communications from the Department of Health (DOH) and other parties that led to the decision to develop, implement and override its March 25 directive, and allow Zucker to provide answers as to why this information was kept from the Legislature and public for such a long period of time.

According to Section 62-A of Legislative Law, if a majority of members on a given committee sign a petition, they then have the authority to issue a subpoena for the individual in question to appear before the committee to answer questions.

Hawley has sought for months to hold legislative hearings in which Dr. Zucker would be compelled to answer questions regarding the thousands of deaths in New York nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic and about the attempts that followed to cover up the severity of the tragedy.

“Given the sheer tragedy of this situation, I am hopeful my colleagues in the Majority on this committee will do what’s right as human beings and compel Commissioner Zucker to provide the answers grieving families have waited far too long for,” Hawley said.

“If our governor’s own attorney general was able to put aside their partisanship for the sake of truth and justice, I can only hope those in the Majority on these committees will also put their humanity before their politics.”

Tops completes its first 2021 renovation project at Batavia store for $3.5M

By Press Release

Press release:

Today, Tops is proud to announce a major $3.5 million renovation project is complete at its store located at 390 W. Main St., Batavia.

This marks the 13th renovation for the supermarket chain since 2020 and the first for this year. This renovation is a part of the company’s $40 million capital improvement plan.

Tops Friendly Markets will virtually cut the ribbon on this impressive 78,000-square-foot store at 11 o'clock next Thursday, Feb. 18. To see some of these exciting renovations, visit us in-store, on our Facebook page (@TopsFriendlyMarkets) or at our website

Kris Ponzi, store manager for the Batavia Tops, noted that “with all of our new amenities, our expanded signature floral, fresh fried donuts and custom cakes, to our wider selection of specialty and imported cheeses to our Tops Brew Market with plenty of local beers, guests are sure to enjoy all of our enhanced offerings.”

She invites her neighbors to visit this newly remodeled store during the Grand Re-opening celebration and even have the chance to win some great prizes like Tops gift cards for food and fuel, overnight stays at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel, and free Grocery Express Delivery memberships.

Almost everything inside and outside of the store has been touched giving it a refreshed and modernized appearance. From updated new exterior paint and enhanced façade, new interior décor, energy efficient equipment, digital menu screens, and LED lighting, to a completely remodeled fuel station in the parking lot.

Customers will also enjoy the added convenience of 10 new state-of-the-art self-check outs added during the renovation which will help to expedite their shopping.

You’ll feel the freshness in the expanded produce area featuring a fresh prep cut fruit and vegetable station. Tops partnership with over 200 local growers, includes several of our neighbor’s right here in Western New York, bringing the freshest local produce straight from the farm to your table. Tops prides itself on carefully selecting, inspecting, and ensuring your produce arrives at the peak of perfection.

Tops is also a proud supporter of product grown by New York State farmers who adhere to the New York State Grown and Certified program’s requirements, which includes verification of safe food-handling practices and participation in environmental sustainability programs. 

The newly remodeled bakery now offers a wider selection of detailed custom cakes and confections for weddings and special occasions as well as an expanded assortment of freshly baked breads, pastries, and signature fresh fried donuts.

Throughout the store, shoppers will also see an increase of antibiotic-free meat, plant-based options, daily fresh chef-prepared sushi,and sustainable seafood selections, along with a wider selection of certified organic and gluten-free offerings including natural bulk dry beans, rice and grains. 

To stay hydrated there is an expanded section of the store dedicated to waters, seltzers, and sparkling waters, including many imported varieties, which are on trend.

Love local beer? Tops took to heart the recent challenges facing local breweries and increased its support by enhancing not only the selection of local favorites, but their overall offerings in the Brew Market.

And when ordering online, shoppers can even get all of their favorite traditional and craft beers, hard ciders, and seltzers delivered right to their homes.

The stores remodel includes the Pharmacy that has a new, safe and convenient waiting area which provides a wide variety of services to the community seven days a week.

Tops is committed to making it easy to get every healthy thing you need in one quick stop and offers a number of immunizations, is an authorized administer of the Department of Motor Vehicles' Vision test, provides low prescription prices along with the GoodRxapp, and accepts more than 3,000 insurance plans.

The Batavia Tops Pharmacy, along with 50 other Tops Pharmacy locations throughout our region, are also the safe and convenient location for COVID-19 vaccinations. To learn more about COVID-19 vaccinations, click here.

Tops shoppers can also save time by utilizing Tops Grocery Pick-up and Delivery services. With fast, online ordering, get your favorite items and the best deals in town that you love delivered from our store to your door in as little as two hours.

Customers can visit TopsMarkets.com/ShopOnline and enter their zip code to get started. 

Also new in Batavia, an innovative and interactive in-store program called “Flashfood” that allows customers to purchase food nearing its sell-by date to save money and to help reduce food waste. Items like fresh produce, meat, deli, bakery, and dairy, may be listed at up to 50-percent off on the Flashfood app and then are available for easy pick up inside the store.

Because of its tremendous success, Tops now offers this "Flashfood" service at 33 store locations.

“At Tops, social responsibility and sustainability have always been at the core of our mission, upholding standards that ensure we reduce environmental waste and energy consumption while providing customers with sustainably sourced, high-quality products, at a great value,” said Jeff Culhane, senior vice president of sales and merchandising for Tops.

“The Flashfood program fits right into our business model and we’re excited to bring this unique, money saving opportunity to our customers.”

Learn more about Tops sustainability efforts here.

Landers: Genesee has lowest seven-day COVID positivity rate in Finger Lakes Region

By Mike Pettinella

Genesee County Manager Matt Landers this afternoon reported that Genesee County has the lowest seven-day positivity rate for COVID-19 in the Finger Lakes Region.

“It’s a nice feeling to have, a nice distinction to have at this point – especially given that just several weeks ago we were not only the worst positivity rate in the Finger Lakes Region, but we were competing for the worst in the state,” Landers said during the regular meeting of the County Legislature via Zoom videoconferencing. “It’s nice to see the turnaround and that our positivity rate is below 3 percent.”

He called it a “quick turnaround” and said it is due to “all the hard work we have been doing in this community in terms of messaging, distancing and the testing and the vaccination.”

On another front, he said the Genesee County Police Reform and Reinvention Draft Report has been posted on the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office page of the county’s website -- Welcome to County of Genesee.

He encouraged residents to look it over and provide feedback by sending an email to: county.manager@co.genesee.ny.us

“I’ve gotten some comments already and I welcome more,” he said.

The Genesee County Police Reform and Reinvention Collaborative has set its next meeting for 6 p.m. Feb. 23 (via Zoom) -- not on the 22nd as originally scheduled due to some members being unable to attend.

A resolution to accept the report is expected to be considered by the Public Service Committee on March 15, a couple weeks before it needs to be submitted to the New York State Office of Management and Budget.

In official action, the legislature:

  • Voted in favor of accepting an $11,100 grant from the Rochester Area Community Foundation’s Muriel H. Marshall Fund to launch the CallHub pilot program for the county’s Office for the Aging.

To be utilized over the remainder of this year, the grant will allow the Office for the Aging to help people safely connect with phone calls going through CallHub, a secure web-based tool that makes communication between individuals and groups of people easier, quicker and safer through a designated phone number.

The resolution that was passed indicated that CallHub is an application that allows for improved program management for staff and volunteer-based programs, through mass messaging and real-time data collection and monthly reporting capabilities.

OFA Director Diana Fox said the office’s “safe” number appears on the caller ID, keeping the caller's personal number private.

“This is advantageous for volunteer-based programs and staff working remotely due to the pandemic,” she stated.

  • Approved amendments pertaining to the payment schedule of 2021 contracts with The Mental Health Association of Genesee & Orleans Counties, Restoration Society, Living Opportunities of DePaul, Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, and Arc of Genesee Orleans.

Per New York State requirements, regular payments to these agencies should be paid quarterly, not monthly as the current contracts stipulate.

As a result of the legislation, quarterly payments will be as follows:

The Mental Health Association of Genesee & Orleans Counties, $95,142.75; Restoration Society, $71,113.50; Living Opportunities of DePaul, $11,201.25; GCASA, $387,668.25; Arc of Genesee Orleans, $10,436.25.

Landers said funds provided to these organizations are “pass-through” from the state.

“This is not what we traditionally consider outside agency funding,” he said. “When we refer to outside agency funding we refer to Genesee County taxpayer-supported funding for agencies such as the Holland Land Office or GO ART!”

There are 13 new COVID-19 cases in Genesee County today

By Press Release

Data Update –

  • Genesee County received 13 new positive cases of COVID-19.
    • The new positive cases reside in the:
      • West Region (Alabama, Darien, Pembroke)
      • Central Region (Alexander, Batavia, Bethany, Elba, Oakfield) 
      • East Region (Bergen, Byron, Le Roy, Pavilion, Stafford)
  • The individuals are in their 0-19s, 20s, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s.  
  • Nineteen of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list.  
  • Fifteen of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.
  • We are very sad to report the COVID-related death of three of our county residents. All of the individuals were over the age of 65. We do not provide any further information to protect the privacy of the individuals and their families. Our deepest condolences to the families and friends during this very difficult time.

 

Orleans County received 10 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, 30s, 40s, 60s, 80s and 90s.
  • One of the new positive individuals were on quarantine prior to testing positive.
  • Thirteen of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list.
  • Two of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.
  • Three of the new positive individuals are residents of Orchard Rehabilitation & Nursing Center.

GC Republican Committee endorses Melissa Cianfrini for county court judge

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

The Genesee County Republican Committee is proud to announce that it has endorsed Melissa L. Cianfrini as its candidate for Genesee County Court judge.

Cianfrini has more than 21 years of combined experience as a civil litigator, assistant district attorney and assistant county attorney. She has been licensed in three states and has handled complex litigation cases in numerous state and federal courts throughout the Eastern United States.

In addition to her vast civil experience, she was known as a tough, but fair prosecutor for nearly a decade and currently is employed as an assistant county attorney, where she prosecutes child abuse and neglect cases, family offenses, and advises the county on civil matters.

She possesses a strong work ethic and honors family values. Cianfrini resides in Genesee County with her husband, Mike Cianfrini, and their two children, Sophia and Jack.

Law and order: Pair of arrests for grand larceny in welfare fraud cases

By Billie Owens

Corrine Elizabeth Navarra, 39, of Mill Street, Le Roy, is charged with third-degree grand larceny and third-degree welfare fraud. Navarra was arrested after an investigation by Department of Social Services Investigator Robert Riggi. It is alleged that starting on Jan. 17, 2020 she failed to report income while receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, which would have lowered her benefit. It is alleged that Navarra received $3,840 in benefits that she was not eligible for. She was arraigned in Genesee County Court on Feb. 10 and released on her own recognizance. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello.

Jason William Doohan, 37, of Jerome Place, Batavia, is charged with fourth-degree grand larceny and offering a false instrument for filing in the first degree. Doohan was arrested after an investigation by Department of Social Services Investigator Robert Riggi. It is alleged that on March 1 of last year Doohan failed to report income he earned scrapping metal, which resulted in Doohan receiving $1,464 in public assistance benefits that he was not entitled to. The defendant is due in Batavia Town Court on March 1. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello.

'Underground Railroad in the Niagara Frontier' is topic of HLOM presenter Feb. 18

By Press Release

Press release:

The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to welcome on Thursday, Feb. 18 at 7 p.m. Michael Broccolo of the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center as our next presenter in our Guest Speaker Series. The topic will be "The Underground Railroad in the Niagara Frontier."

The presentation will be conducted virtually via Zoom. To watch the presentation via Zoom please visit the museum's Facebook page or website for login information.

If you would like to witness the virtual presentation on the museum's big screen there will be a limited audience of 12 people. Those in attendance will be required to wear masks and follow social distancing protocols and must preregister by contacting the museum at (585) 343-4727. We are asking anyone in attendance for a small donation.

Lady Dragons' Shooting For A Cure! to mark 10th year with big goal: to raise $48K

By Press Release

Press release:

The Pembroke Jr./Sr. High School Girls Basketball Team is currently organizing their 10th annual Shooting For A Cure! game in support of funding research efforts at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. 

We're extremely excited that we will be able to help raise funds and awareness for cancer research at Roswell Park.

Over the past nine seasons, our small community has raised more than $152,000 for cancer research at Roswell Park and we hope to uphold this benevolent tradition. Shooting For A Cure! has become one of Roswell Park’s largest community-based fundraising events.

This year, the team hopes to break the $200,000 mark in total funds raised since the event’s inception, setting their most ambitious goal to date.

Due to current COVID-19 restrictions we will not be able to pack the hallways or the gymnasium as we've always done in the past; however we're trying to take a creative approach!

This year's game will be Pembroke vs. Oakfield-Alabama starting at 7 p.m., Friday, March 5 in the Pembroke high gym, located at the corner of routes 5 and 77 (8750 Alleghany Road).

Due to current statewide COVID-19 restrictions, admission to the game is by school-issued passes only, with two immediate family members per player in attendance.

This year, the team hopes to break the $200,000 mark in total funds raised since the event’s inception, setting their most ambitious goal to date.

The team is currently accepting online donations in support of Shooting For A Cure! To make a donation, please visit: http://bit.ly/donateshootingforacure

There will be several other ways to support the cause this year. The team has partnered with 26Shirts from Buffalo, a local company that designs and sells apparel items to benefit those in need. To date, 26Shirts has raised $1,057,788 for local families, foundations and organizations.

This year’s apparel sale will run through Sunday, Feb. 14th and all proceeds will directly benefit cancer research at Roswell Park. If you’re interested in limited edition, 10th annual Shooting For A Cure! gear, please visit: http://bit.ly/productsshootingforacure

Shooting For A Cure! began 10 years ago when the Pembroke Girls’ Varsity Basketball team approached then Head Coach Mike Wilson with an idea to show their support for Toni Funke, wife of beloved coach and Pembroke teacher Ron Funke in her battle against breast cancer. They wanted to play a game in her honor to raise money for cancer research.

Since then, Shooting For A Cure! has blossomed into a huge community event attracting supporters from throughout Western New York. Regardless of how large the event has grown, the goal remains the same: show support for community members in the fight against cancer.

Toni Funke, who initially inspired the Shooting For A Cure! event said, “The most important part of the event is feeling the love and support from the organizers of this event, the team and the entire community. From the beginning, Pembroke as a whole has really shown that we’ve got each other’s backs. Cancer affects everyone. We're all in this together. We stand together as a community, willing to fight the good fight.”

Toni’s husband, and current Pembroke Coach Ron Funke added, “I take this game very personally. Shooting For A Cure! started with Toni’s diagnosis and that original team wanting to show their love and support for Toni and our family. It’s the foundation of it all. That act of love then, and still to this day, is extremely powerful; it's overwhelming. To watch how this event has continued to grow every year inspires me.”

When reflecting on Shooting For A Cure! and its impact, Ryan Winchip, Pembroke’s athletic director said, “I don't think it’s about how much money gets raised; it’s more about honoring the people that have battled this disease and bringing a community together as well as the special moments that people share -- tears of joy, tears of sadness, taking a minute to remember family members, and honoring members of the community on the court.

"I think it’s all about that halftime ceremony and getting to recognize those brave survivors along with remembering our loved ones that are no longer with us.”

WBTA has jumped in to help with an AM/FM broadcast of the game. Pembroke will be setting up a live video feed of the game from the gymnasium.

Mr. Brown, our dedicated Snack Shack coordinator, has been reaching out to local food trucks in hopes of setting up a "Food Truck Rally" in support of the event. The Cheesy Chick, Buffalo Best Grill, Center Street Smokehouse, and a few additional trucks have volunteered to set up in the school parking lot on March 5th from 4-8 p.m. and will not only serve food to our community, but also donate a percentage of proceeds to cancer research at Roswell Park.

Additional fundraising ideas remain in the works as the team and event organizers hope to put together innovative raffle options for both in-person and virtual spectators and supporters.

Generous donors have continued to step up, donating newly released Apple products, Amazon gift cards, autographed sports memorabilia, and gift certificates to local restaurants, themed-baskets, and handcrafted items. Walt Disney World again has donated Park Hopper passes to our event, and Pesci’s Pizza and Wings recently donated an "Office Pizza Party for 12" as a way to help raise funds for cancer research.

The team has considered taking a themed approach to this year’s fundraising effort; however details remain fluid as they continue to coordinate the next phase of this effort.

The 2020-2021 Shooting For A Cure! business and organization donors list includes:

  • 26Shirts
  • ACES Foundation
  • ADPRO Sports
  • Buffalo Best Grill
  • Buttercrumbs Bakery
  • Center Street Smoke House
  • Clarence Deli
  • Dollars for Scholars
  • Dry Creek Group
  • Genesee Feeds
  • Hershey’s Ice Cream
  • Insty-Prints
  • Knockaround Sunglasses
  • Linda’s Family Diner
  • Northtown Automotive
  • Original Pizza Logs
  • Pesci’s Pizza and Wings
  • Roswell Park Alliance Foundation
  • Sincerely Kayla
  • Terry Hills
  • The Cheesy Chick
  • Tim Hortons
  • Walt Disney World
  • WBTA
  • YMCA of Batavia

We remain in need of donation items for our raffle, as well as monetary donations in support of our Shooting For A Cure! mission that directly funds cancer research at Roswell Park.

Community members, local businesses or organizations wishing to donate to this year’s event should contact Mike Wilson by calling (716) 949-0523.

For more information, please go to:

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Pembroke Central School District: Shooting For A Cure!

ABOUT PEMBROKE HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS’ VARSITY BASKETBALL TEAM: The Pembroke High School Girls’ Varsity Basketball Team is comprised of nine young women. This season’s captains are Serene Calderon and Emily Peters. The Lady Dragons are coached by Ron Funke and Guy Gabbey. The team colors are green, white and black. The team began Shooting For A Cure! as an annual event in 2011, and they are committed to the hard work and dedication it will take to win the battle against breast cancer.

ABOUT ROSWELL PARK COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTER: According to its website, “All donations made to Roswell Park are managed by the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that ensures that every donation is put to the best possible use. The Alliance Foundation has been recognized numerous times for these efforts.”

Top and bottom photos: Front -- Karli Houseknecht (25), Allyson DuBois-Rider (30), Serene Calderón (10), Emily Peters (32), Sydney Johnson (11). Back: Ariel Moss (50), Allie Schwerthoffer (14), Nicole Von Kramer (23), Isabel Breeden (2).

Batavia PD issues annual report detailing crime stats and goals for coming year

By Howard B. Owens

Chief Shawn Heubusch has issued Batavia PD's first annual report in a number of years -- hard to say how many -- and it includes statistics on crime in Batavia and a vision for the future.

"(An annual report has) been on my agenda since 2013," Heubusch said. "I haven’t had the time or staff to do it." ("Still don’t have the time or staff, but I did it anyway!")

The department responded to 20,662 calls for service in 2020. Officers processed 423 criminal arrests. They also conducted 2,772 traffic stops and issued 1,190 citations. There were 417 traffic accidents reported, including 64 personal injury accidents and one fatality.

Among the calls for service were 480 domestic complaints. There were 248 victims in Batavia of domestic violence, up from 237 in 2019 and 209 in 2018.

Officers also responded to 277 alarm calls and 343 9-1-1 hang-up calls.

The highest number of criminal complaints were for simple assault at 291. There were 287 larceny complaints. There were 139 complaints for criminal mischief (property damage). 

A total of 32 drivers were stopped for operating under the influence of either drugs or alcohol.

In violent crime, 39 aggravated assaults were reported, 13 rapes,  and 12 robberies.

There were no murders in Batavia in 2020.

There were 45 burglaries and 14 vehicle thefts reported.

Twenty-seven people were arrested for possession of a controlled substance.

A highlight of the year was initiating the return of a K-9 patrol to the city with Officer Steve Quider beginning handler duties.

The department also participated in a police reform and reinvention program mandated by an executive order that led to seven meetings with community members for a review of police produces and community relations. 

Strategic priorities for the department include a new police facility, the department becoming a NY State accredited agency, implementing the city's deer management plan, and reviewing the comprehensive emergency management plan in conjunction with City Fire.

Goals for the year include updating field training, initiating a new traffic safety program with an emphasis on pedestrian and bike safety, and enhancing community engagement.

To read the full report, click here (pdf).

In cahoots: Collaborative effort results in new 'Blessing Box' to help people

By Press Release

Submitted photo and press release:

There is a new structure in front of St. James Episcopal Church on East Main Street in Batavia. It is quite a bit smaller than the church, but don’t let the size of this Blessing Box diminish its mission. 

You’ve probably seen similar little structures placed along roadways or sidewalks. Often they hold books and promote family literacy. 

The Blessing Box has a different purpose. It will hold commonly used items such as food, warm clothing, or clean face masks; items intended to meet some daily needs of the local community.

The Blessing Box project began during discussions in a Ministry for Education study group for lay people. The group meets weekly and engages in theological learning and reflection, focusing on how they might serve their community. This offering of service to others is ever present in each of our daily lives.

The EfM discussion identified unmet needs of some local individuals, families and the homeless population. This particularly includes those living with physical or mental health disabilities and anyone prevented from earning a life-sustaining wage. 

The Blessing Box eventually became a reality through the collaborative efforts of churches along East Main Street, including the First Presbyterian Church, the First Baptist Church, Resurrection Roman Catholic Parish, and St. James Episcopal Church. A local business -- Blue Pearl Yoga -- is also a partner, along with the important Genesee Region Center for Independent Living located in Batavia.

As the project evolved, it became apparent that resources are available and interest exists to meet some needs of others during this pandemic. If you are interested in donating or participating in this vital outreach to the community, you can find the project The Blessing Box-Batavia on their Facebook page and contact the group through messenger. 

Due to the limited access of our buildings during the pandemic, there will be a monthly donation drop off that will be advertised and posted on Facebook. A list of requested donations is also available, including cold weather items like handmade or new hats, gloves, and socks, COVID-19 safety items including disposable plastic gloves, masks, and hand sanitizer, personal hygiene items, bottles of water, and food items. In lieu of money, gift cards to Aldi, Tops, and BJ's will be accepted, too.

Tompkins Bank of Castile launches online application portal for PPP funds for businesses

By Press Release

Press release:

Tompkins Bank of Castile has launched its online application portal for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) second round of funding for businesses, and is now accepting applications from businesses located within its geographic service areas who do not yet maintain an active business checking or loan account with Tompkins.

“We are very pleased to be able to offer this SBA (Small Business Administration) funding,” said Tompkins Bank of Castile President and CEO John McKenna. “Our team understands how challenging these times have been and we are glad we can help members of our community access these vital funds.”

New business customers must visit a Tompkins branch location to apply for a business checking account prior to the submission of their PPP application through the portal. Minority and women-owned businesses are encouraged to apply.

To learn more about the application process or to submit an application for PPP Funding, please visit the online portal here (same as link above).

'Stitch' needs a new home without little kids; he's sweet, housebroken and has good manners

By Billie Owens

This is "Stitch." He's a 3-year-old blue-tick heeler mix. He needs a new home.

Mixing native dingoes with collies and other herding dogs, Australian George Elliott developed the blue heeler in 1840. The term blue-tick heeler is colloquial; they are also called Australian heelers, Queensland heelers and Australian cattle dogs.

In general herding dogs are resilient and highly intelligent. The American Kennel Club characterizes their temperment as "alert, curious, pleasant."

Stitch is a neutered male that is heartworm negative and up to date with vaccines. He comes from a home with five other dogs and young children. He is currently in a foster home.

The Volunteers for Animal at the Genesee County Animal Shelter do not know how he is with cats. They do know he is a very sweet and friendly dog. He bonds very quickly and closely with people. He loves attention. He is housebroken, crate trained and generally very good house manners.

He responds to commands and seems very teachable. He does get nervous about strangers coming into the house but after meeting them is OK.

He can become anxious with lots of commotion, but will go into his crate willingly and relax. It is recommended that he not go to a home with children under 10 or so. Stitch is not at the Shelter -- please do not call the Shelter for information.

If you would like to meet this sweet pup, email the volunteers:  info@vol4animals.org

Submitted photo and information.

Update on USDA activities to contain the COVID-19 pandemic

By Press Release

WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 10 — In January, President Biden released the National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness (pdf). The plan is driven by science, data, and public health to improve the effectiveness of our nation’s fight against COVID-19 and to restore trust, accountability and a sense of common purpose in our response to the pandemic.

The National Strategy provides a roadmap to guide America out of the worst public health crisis in a century. It is organized around seven goals:
  1. Restore trust with the American people.
  2. Mount a safe, effective, and comprehensive vaccination campaign.
  3. Mitigate spread through expanding masking, testing, data, treatments, health care workforce, and clear public health standards.
  4. Immediately expand emergency relief and exercise the Defense Production Act.
  5. Safely reopen schools, businesses, and travel while protecting workers.
  6. Protect those most at risk and advance equity, including across racial, ethnic and rural/urban lines.
  7. Restore U.S. leadership globally and build better preparedness for future threats.
The plan calls on all parts of the federal government to contribute its resources—facilities, personnel, and expertise—to contain the pandemic. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is responding to the President’s call to action. In addition to personnel, USDA is offering its facilities, cold chain infrastructure, public health experts, disaster response specialists, and footprint in rural areas and Tribal communities across the country. Here are the some of the ways USDA is working alongside our federal partners to contain the pandemic and get our economy back on track.
 
USDA Programmatic Announcements
USDA Personnel Deployments
 
127 Personnel Deployments to Date
  • Feb. 10: The USDA Forest Service has deployed 64 Incident Management Team personnel and they are currently assigned to the National COVID Vaccine Campaign staffing vaccination centers, providing logistical support, planning at regional/state levels with FEMA and states, and more.
  • Feb. 9: The USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has deployed 63 employees, including 53 employees to Nevada and Oklahoma to administer vaccinations at a variety of rapid points of distribution including mobile teams and pop-up clinics; four employees to Washington State to assist in planning vaccination efforts; and six employees to support FEMA.
For more information about USDA’s efforts and resources to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit www.usda.gov/coronavirus.

Genesee County 4-H Program offering new 'Junior Master Gardeners Club'

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County 4-H Program is now accepting registrations for its new 4-H Junior Master Gardeners Club.

The club is open to youth age 8-13 and is a collaboration between the Genesee County 4-H Program and Genesee County Master Gardeners. Participating youth will work on a variety of hands-on gardening projects.

The club is scheduled to begin meeting on Wednesdays in late April.

Space is limited. Youth must be enrolled in the Genesee County 4-H Program to participate. Enrollment fees for Genesee County residents are $25 per youth or $50 per family of two or more youths.

To register or receive more information, please contact the Genesee County 4-H Office at genesee4h@cornell.edu or (585) 343-3040, ext. 101. Enrollment forms are also available on our website.

Notre Dame pulls out win over O-A to open COVID-shortened season

By Howard B. Owens

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Sparked by 33 points from Mark Sanders, Notre Dame opened a COVID-shortened basketball season against Oakfield-Alabama with a 65-62 win at home.

For the Fighting Irish, Jordan Welker was the only other player to hit double digits, scoring 10 points. Ryan Fitzpatrick had six and Jimmy Fanara had six.

Travis Wiedrich led the Hornets with 31 points. Gaige Armbrewster scored 18 and Kaden Cusmano scored 14.

Also on opening night for boys basketball:

  • Byron-Bergen beat Alexander 47-42
  • Batavia beat Eastridge 52-48
  • Pembroke beat Lyndonville 56-54

In girls basketball, Elba beat Albion 63-22.

Photos by Kristin Smith. For more, click here.

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Tourism Marketing Assistant Position The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, serving as the official tourism promotion agency for Genesee County, NY is seeking an experienced marketing professional to assist in the overall Chamber tourism and marketing initiatives for Genesee County. https://visitgeneseeny.com/about/join-our-team
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