The spirit of Christmas is alive and well on Bonnie Brae Road in Darien Center, at least as far as the decorations go.

But apparently those very same decorations have caused a commotion outside, under the bright, new pretty winter moon, among some neighbors there. They are "separated at this time," says the dispatcher.

Sheriff's deputies are en route to handle the dispute.

Friday the ribbon was cut on a new $19.5 million surgical wing at United Memorial Medical Center.

More than 125 people attended the ceremony and toured the new facility, with more people taking advantage of the open house to see the state-of-art surgical wing.

The new facility includes five high-tech surgical suites and 19 recovery beds.

"Batavia in its history has had many pivotal moments, and this is certainly one of them," UMMC Board Chairman Tom Houseknecht said. "The entire community can be proud of this new surgery center."

UMMC Chief of Surgery, Dr. Matthew Landfried, said the entire staff is eager to begin working in the new 44,000-square-foot addition.

The first surgery is scheduled for Jan. 4.

Above, Mark Schoell, UMMC CEO, Tom Houseknecht, Dr. Matt Landfried and Bill Fritz, chair of the 2010 capital campaign, cut the red ribbon.

More pictures after the jump (to purchase pictures, click here):

Regular readers of The Batavian may recognize this picture -- first published on April 22. It's one of 15 photos of Genesee County by Howard Owens selected for display in the new wing. The other 14 photos will be hung some time in the coming week.

Seven residents of the Batavia Motel, 3768 W. Main St. Road, were told Thursday evening they had less than 24 hours to vacant the premises.

The Town of Batavia condemned the building because of numerous code violations.

Resident Eric Duda, who was made manager of the complex about seven months ago -- but still had to pay rent -- said he and his fiancé were able to find lodging for themselves and their 10-month-old infant.

But he said everything he owns is stored in rooms and there's no money to move it to other storage on such short notice.

"I figure I'm going to lose all of my possessions," said Duda, whose last extension for unemployment compensation ran out last week.

DSS helped him and his family move, temporarily, into the Mark Trail Motel, but he couldn't take his dog, and as of about 6 p.m. last night, he didn't know what he was going to do with his pet.

The motel has two detached wings. One of the wings has been vacant for some period of time because of a fire in the main office.

All of the residents lived in units on the east side of the property.

The property is owned by Panchal Bhupendrabhai (Duda called him "Sonny"), who lives in Irving, Texas. The assessed value is $55,000. He acquired the 2.9-acre parcel in 2007 from Sarojbahen Patel for $1, who acquired it in 2006 for $55,000. 

Earlier this month, the Town of Batavia authorized a purchase offer of $85,000 to acquire the parcel, which adjoins Kiwanis Park.

Supervisor Greg Post said the condemnation and interest in buying the property are unrelated matters.

The town has been interested since about 2007 or 2008.

"It's a matter of public record," Post said.

He added that "If there were a proper offer to sell the property, we would be willing to negotiate to buy the property."

Post said the living arrangements are a matter between the landlord and tenants.

"We certainly gave the owner time to comply (with code requirements)," Post said.

Still, the condemnation caught residents by surprised, and they all made quick trips to the Department of Social Services on Friday looking for help.

Maken Ithnnascheri, just moved into room #22 on Monday and spent every dime he had on the move and making the space habitable, including repairs and paint. He said he has nowhere to go and no place to take all of his possessions.

"I put a nice penny into it," he said. "They came here late last night and said we had to be out by five o’clock, and there’s no way. I have no place else to go. Where are we going to go in the cold?”

"Everything I have in the world," he added, "is in that room."

Ithnnascheri said he isn't currently eligible for DSS assistance to help him find new lodging.

The motel is in quite a state of disrepair, Duda acknowledged. He said the roof over three rooms leaks, there are broken doors and windows and several other problems with the property.

“It’s really just lots of little things," Duda said. "I just don’t know how it lasted as long as it did.”

Over the summer, he and the other tenants put a riser and cement cover over the septic tank, but it still leaks into the woods behind the motel.

The landlord has made various deals with tenants to make repairs at a discount but nothing ever seems to get done, Duda said.

He doesn't take issue with the condemnation, only the timing of it.

"It's something that I don’t understand," Duda said. "In order for a landlord to evict you, you've got 30 days. So how can the town come in and say you’ve got 24 hours and that’s it?

"I don’t know why he (the code enforcement officer) didn’t do this in the summer time when it would be easier for people to move," he added.

A two-car accident is reported on Route 63, in front of the John Deere tractor dealership, at Batavia-Oakfield Townline Road.

It is blocking the roadway. Both drivers are injured, but Mercy Flight is not needed. One victim needs to be extricated.

Oakfield Fire Department is responding. Route 63 and Fisher Road are going to be shut down. The Town of Batavia is handling fire police duties. Mercy EMS is responding.

UPDATE 12:10 p.m.: The victim needing extrication is out of the vehicle.

UPDATE 12:23 p.m.: Apparently, both drivers needed to be extricated and now the second victim is out of his or her vehicle.

UPDATE 12:34 p.m.: Both victims have been transported to the hospital. The roads are re-opened. Responders are clearing the scene.

Deputy Edward Vlack is Officer of the Year in the Genesee County Sheriff's Office.

Jane Ferrando received the Distinguished Service Award.

Both were honored Friday during the Sheriff's Office annual holiday lunch at the headquarters office on Park Road.

Awards were also presented Deputy Patrick Reeves, Deputy Brian Thompson and Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello for Meritorious Service.

Commendations were presented to Chief Deputy Jerome Brewster, Deputy Lonnie Nati, Correction Officer Lisa Aratari, Correction Officer Walter Kolmetz and Correction Officer Bob Mattice.

Top photo: Vlack receives his award from Undersheriff William Sharon, left, and Sheriff Gary Maha.

More pictures and full press release after the jump:

Dispatcher Gary Diegelman receiving an award for 30 years of service, shaking hands with Steven Sharp, left, director of the dispatch center, with Chief Deputy Jerry Brewster looking on.

Keith W. Hunt, deputy coordinator for Emergency Services, accepts a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of Emergency Services. Carolyn Della Penna, confidential secretary to the Sheriff, stands behind Hunt.

Wade Schwab accepts a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of Mercy EMS.

Dispatcher Joyce Anderson was honored for 30 years of service.

Deputy Patrick Reeves.

Deputy Brian Thompson receiving his award from Chief Deputy Gordon Dibble.

Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello.

Chief Brewster receives a Commendation for his efforts in the investigation that led to murder charges being filed against Steven Repert in Pennsylvania.

Jane Ferrando.

Printed copies of the photos can be purchased by clicking here.

OFFICER OF THE YEAR – DEPUTY SHERIFF EDWARD E. VLACK

Deputy Edward E. Vlack has distinguished himself in the performance of service to the citizens of Genesee County and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during 2010. Deputy Vlack’s professional skills and positive attitude have been unwavering over his 20-year career. He continues to demonstrate exceptional competency, organization and leadership and has taken on several additional responsibilities, without hesitation, throughout this past year in the Civil Bureau. In times of need, Deputy Vlack can always be counted on. He is dedicated to performing his duties with professionalism and motivation and has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD – FINANCIAL CLERK/TYPIST – JANE D. FERRANDO

Financial Clerk-Typist Jane D. Ferrando has distinguished herself as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Jane’s professionalism to the citizens of Genesee County, coupled with her knowledge of Civil Bureau operations, has been a source of pride for this Agency. During many times of need this year, Jane was more than willing to take on additional responsibilities in Records and the Civil Bureau, at times performing the workload of three people. She continues to go above and beyond the call of duty and reflects great credit upon herself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

LONGEVITY AWARDS

Mary Hecht -- 10 years
Terese Bryan -- 10 years
Youth Officer Christopher Erion -- 10 years
Margaret Sheelar -- 10 years
Deputy Frank Bordonaro -- 15 years
Correction Officer Lisa Aratari -- 15 years
Deputy Edward Vlack -- 20 years
Youth Officer John Dehm --  30 years
Sr. Dispatcher Gary Diegelman -- 30 years
Sr. Dispatcher Joyce Anderson -- 30 years
Chief Deputy – Road Patrol Gordon Dibble -- 35 years
Warrant Officer Eric Olson -- 35 years
Chief Deputy, Investigations Jerome Brewster -- 35 years

CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION

Emergency Management Staff Sr. Dispatcher Joyce Anderson
Mercy EMS
Edward Minardo, Director, Genesee Justice

COMMENDATION

Chief Deputy, Investigations -- Jerome Brewster
Deputy Lonnie Nati
Correction Officer Lisa Aratari
Correction Officer Walter Kolmetz
Correction Officer Bob Mattice

MERITORIOUS

Deputy Patrick Reeves
Deputy Brian Thompson
Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello

A two-story house fire is reported in Alexander at 3971 Broadway Road -- Route 20.

The location is between Brown's Mill and Telephone roads.

Alexander Fire Department is responding, along with a ladder truck and tanker from the Town of Batavia.

East Pembroke and Darien will also be helping or on standby. Other mutual aid companies are en route or at the ready also, including Bethany, Stafford, Pavilion and Attica.

It has gone to a second alarm. The initial call reported a barn fire.

Responders are asking for the Sheriff's Department to shut down part of Route 20 to traffic.

UPDATE 6:56 p.m.: Responders say they need lights and tools to open the structure up for ventilation. A pond across the road may be one source of water to fight the fire.

UPDATE 7:13 p.m.: Dispatch says traffic is snarled at the "cloverleaf" in Alexander -- the junction of routes 98 and 20 -- and there's not yet traffic police to re-route vehicles.

UPDATE 7:18 p.m.: National Grid is on scene.

UPDATE 7:22 p.m.: The City of Batavia's Fast Team is called in. A firefighter is heard to say "Holy S%#@!" followed by something about a propane tank being located at the rear of the building.

UPDATE 7:35 p.m.: A firefighter says the propane tank "has been secured." The fourth platoon from the City of Batavia is called to city fire headquarters to stand in.

UPDATE 7:41 p.m.: It seems like sort of a scramble at this point to get enough water. A crew is trying to "get a draft" out of a hydrant on West Bethany Road, with apparently little success thus far.

UPDATE 8:05 p.m.: Fire police are requested at Tapp Road to handle the overflow of traffic from the main thoroughfares. "It's just me, myself and Jill," comes the response, "Tractor-trailer traffic is backed up all the way to my house." The reply: "We'll make do." Also, a tanker from York has been asked to fill in at Pavilion.

UPDATE 8:12 p.m.: Reportedly there are two law enforcement officers west of Route 20 handling traffic control and dispatch notified them that in the next 20 to 30 minutes, personnel from the American Red Cross will be coming through. That usually means people have been displaced from their home and need emergency assistance. Also, an engine from East Pembroke has been called to fill in at the Alexander Fire Hall.

UPDATE 8:21 p.m.: Good progress is being made on the second floor of the structure, says a firefighter. The traffic on the outlying roadways is another matter. It was suggested that traffic be diverted to Brookville Road. But a traffic officer says backed-up semis have been pulling out into the roadway -- wherever it is that they are stuck -- and the others are "getting antsy." Plus, icy roads could especially pose a problem for the heavy-laden truckers. "I say have 'em wait. Do what you have to do," says the man in charge. A bit later, the supervisor says "if they don't want to go, tell them to put their flashers on and go to the next (truck). Make it quick though." Now Darien is asked to standby in Alexander and it is suggested that maybe they should give Alden Fire Department a call, too.

UPDATE 8:43 p.m.: The fire has spread to the attic. The crew from Alden is en route to standby at the Alexander hall.

UPDATE 8:46 p.m.: A big-rig driver asks if he can go down Route 354, down into Wyoming County. The officer checks with his superior who says "It's too slick. No way."

UPDATE 9:32 p.m.: They say they are just mopping up and doing overhaul at this point. So clearing out traffic from around the scene is probably the biggest task at hand. Hey, now there's some pizza and coffee for the hard-working crews.

This video was clearly shot at GCC during a basketball game. A State Trooper is seen talking with a white-haired gentleman who matches the description of John Parrinello being arrest.

If you get WHAM 13 out of Rochester, watch the 6 p.m. news for a report by Sean Carroll related to the video.

UPDATE: Click here for Sean's story.

Previously: Monroe County attorney, college trustee arrested during basketball game at GCC

Two years ago onstage at the annual Batavia Players holiday show, Malloryann Burk accepted the marriage proposal of her now-husband, Peter Flanagan. In this year's show, titled "A Traditional Christmas," Peter is still a central theme in her performance.

The first show is tonight at 7:30 at St. James Episcopal Church, 405 E. Main St., Batavia. Tickets are $10 and will be sold at the door. The other show is the same time Saturday.

But in the new production, Malloryann's focus will be on her husband's  absence rather than his presence.

She will be singing "Sending you a Little Christmas" to Peter, who has been in Afghanistan since September and will most likely be there until May. The song is one of four that are dedicated to Flanagan, a Marine corporal and the father of their 5-month-old son, Gabriel.

"When we were planning the show, we knew we wanted to do something for the troops overseas, and that we wanted to send that message of love and support for them," director Pat Burk, father of Malloryann, explains.  "So much of our family is in the show, and once we started rehearsing it hit us that we're sort the poster family for the cause."

There are a total of 21 songs in the show, most of which are traditional Christmas tunes.  The selections were made by Burk and Mary Brenner in an effort to create a mix of "traditional carols, religious, and well-known songs."

"When we sat down to decide on the songs, there were some that we knew right away had to be in it," says Burk. "Then there were some others, newer songs that aren't as well known but fit well in the expressed area of tradition."

Scattered between some of the songs is Yuletide-themed narration written by Mary Brenner, which discusses everything from the original Christmas story to modern-day Santa Claus. 

In addition to directing, Burk will also lend his voice to the show, performing such songs as a duet of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas." He sings the Bing Crosby part of "Peace on Earth/The Little Drummer Boy" -- along with Paul Spiotta's David Bowie. The musical director and piano accompianist is Kathy White.

Half of this year's show's profit will go toward the St. James Restoration Fund.  

"They've been very good to us in the past, allowing us to perform here, and this is such a beautiful church," Burk explains. "It fits a more traditional type of show."

With Christmas only a week away, the Genesee County Salvation Army is facing a critical time crunch to get the food and others items to families who need them. To say they are coming up short on donations this year, in this economy, is an understatement.

Plus, there's a dearth of bell-ringers, so that's taken a bite out of the Salvation Army's holiday charity campaign.

There are 750 local families who've applied for assistance, and plenty more on a waiting list.

"It's the working families who are really getting squeezed," said Capt. Patty Kurtz, "'the working poor' as the government calls them, are the majority of those who applied this year."

She said the charity used the bulk of its $15,000 Genesee County food budget to buy grocery store gift certificates this year. It also allows families to buy a turkey, ham or whatever for Christmas dinner, and stretches their food budget at a time when their kids are on winter break for two weeks.

The Salvation Army has stocked food items too, of course, with help from Batavia-based business Holiday Ice, which it will start giving out, along with the gift cards, to those on the list beginning at 8:30 a.m. Monday, and again on Tuesday. That'll be at headquarters, 529 E. Main St., in the City of Batavia.

Between now and then, food donations would be super appreciated. Can anybody spare a frozen turkey -- like today or tommorrow?

There were 150 of the birds donated and given out at Thanksgiving. For Christmas, they have about 200 on hand, far below what 750-plus families could enjoy.

"It would be ideal if we could (at least) give every family a turkey," said Kurtz, who is called "Captain Patty."

P.S. -- The Salvation Army's winterwear drive lasts all season long. So if you have gently used coats, sweaters, scarves, mittens, gloves, hats, etc. there are people in Genesee County who could sure use them.

To contact the Salvation Army in Batavia, call 343-6284. E-mail Capt. Patty at patricia.kurtz@use.salvationarmy.org.

This was the view behind the courthouse late this morning at the Tonawanda Creek Falls.

As for the weather forecast: Nothing unusual predicted -- some scattered snow showers and more cold.

Ron Graziaplena is taking his case to trial.

The Oak Street man who has raised the ire of neighbors, and is accused of numerous code violations by the city, will defend himself against the charges in a bench trial before City Court Judge Robert Balbick.

Graziaplena did not appear in court today, but his attorney was present to set the trial date, which is the afternoon of Feb. 21.

Previously: Dispute over ducks, other complaints, has Oak Street man headed to court

The public is invited to tour the new surgical wing at UMMC this afternoon from 3 to 7 p.m.

A free shuttle service from the Bank Street and Washington Street parking lot to the North Street location is available.

Larry's Steakhouse, 60 Main St., Batavia, NY: The name says it all -- Larry's is a great place for steak. Larry's has a fine dining atmosphere with a great menu and outstanding service. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

Center Street Smoke House, 20 Center St., Batavia,NY: Authentic Southern BBQ, from ribs to brisket with all the fixin's. We have a $20 gift card for $10.

T.F. Brown's, at 214 E. Main St., Batavia, NY: T.F. Brown's is a great place for a good meal, good friends and to catch up on what's going on in the sports world. "If it happens in sports, it happens at Brown's." We have a $20 gift card for $10.

Delavan's Restaurant and Tavern, 107 Evans St., Batavia, NY: To me, Delavan's is one of those restaurants where you want to eat frequently until you try everything on the menu. We have a $20gift certificate for $10.

Margarita's Mexican Restaurant, 15 Jackson St., Batavia, NY: When you're looking for an authentic Mexican meal, Margarita's is the place to go. The food and atmosphere are perfect and the service is always outstanding. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Batavia Downs Grandstand Bar & Grille, 8315 Park Road, Batavia, NY: A full menu, salad bar and drinks in one of the region's most popular entertainment venues. We have $25 gift certificates for $12.50. (Must be new or current Players Club member to redeem.)

Red Osier, Route 5, Stafford, NY: Truly, one of the landmark restaurants of the area. Red Osier features prime rib carvedtable side. We have $25 gift certificates for $12.50.

Settler's Restaurant, 353 W. Main St., Batavia, NY:Settler's has a 25-year history of serving great, affordable breakfasts, lunches and dinners to Batavians. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Alex's Place, 8322 Park Road, Batavia, NY: People come from all over the region for a fine dining experience at Alex's. It's best known for its ribs, of course, but Alex's seafood is also a favorite of the restaurant's diners. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

NOTE: If you've never bought Deal of the Day before, or are otherwise unfamiliar with the rules and process, click here.

SOLD OUT

As part of our ongoing series of local Christmas lights, here are six pictures taken tonight.

Above, Lincoln Avenue.

More after the jump:

Bank Street

Fairmont Avenue

Ellicott Avenue

Lincoln Avenue

Maple Street

Members of the State Police and Park Rangers were at the County Airport today practicing open water rescue, taking advantage of the cold weather to get some practice in winter conditions.

The practice involves a trooper and ranger taking off in the chopper and then coming back to the practice zone to pick up a practice rescuee. The purpose is to work on communication among rescuers to ensure all elements of the rescue are coordinated.

A complete sequence of pictures after the jump:

A tractor-trailer hauling cars is reportedly on fire on the Thruway in the area of mile marker 396.8, eastbound lane.

The caller reports flames coming from under the dashboard.

East Pembroke Fire dispatched.

UPDATE 2:37 p.m.: Cab now reported fully involved.

UPDATE 2:40 p.m.: One truck from Town of Batavia requested to the scene.

UPDATE 2:47 p.m.: A chief on scene requests an Oakfield tanker. "It's going pretty good," he says.

UPDATE 2:51 p.m.: A couple of the cars on the truck are on fire. Indian Falls and Pembroke requested to the scene.

UPDATE 3:04 p.m. (Billie): Tankers from Corfu and Darien are now requested. There is heavy traffic congestion around the burning rig, impending the ability of responders to reach the scene more quickly.

UPDATE 3:08 p.m. (Billie): Corfu is asked to standby in the East Pembroke Fire Hall. Darien is asked to wait at the Thruway service area until called if needed.

UPDATE 3:16 p.m. (Billie): Eastbound traffic is being diverted off the Thruway at the Pembroke exit. The congestion has also made it difficult for empty water tankers to leave so those with water can get in there.

UPDATE 3:31 p.m. (Billie): The fire is out and the crews are doing overhaul to finish the work.

UPDATE 4:48 p.m.: Top photo, submitted by Thomas Schneider. Bottom two photos by Howard Owens.

Batavia-based Graham Corp., which made its name and money supporting oil exploration and drilling, is moving into the nuclear industry.

Yesterday, Graham announced the acquisition of Michigan-based Energy Steel for $18 million.

The newly acquired company, with 52 employees, is expected to remain in Michigan and no layoffs are expected.

Graham tapped into its $71 million cash reserve to make the purchase, according to the Buffalo News.

Michael R. Paladino Jr., 34, of 103 W. Main St., Building 9, Apt. 5, Le Roy, is charged with petit larceny. Paladino is accused of stealing a shopping cart full of groceries from a store on West Main Street, Le Roy. The alleged theft occurred on Dec. 8.

Unsafe speed in light snow is being blamed for a two-car accident on Buffalo Street Road near Bowen Road at 11:39 a.m., Wednesday, that caused one minor injury.

Cited for allegedly not wearing a seat belt was George Campbell IV, 21, of Hastings Avenue, Buffalo.

No citation is listed in the accident report related to speed.

Campbell was reportedly traveling southbound on Buffalo Street Road when his 2000 Buick sedan started to skid. Campbell reportedly over corrected, causing him to strike a car in the rear driven by Samuel A. Palmeri, 43, of Dundee Street, Albion.

Campbell suffered a minor injury and was treated at the scene.

The accident was investigated by Deputy Lonnie Nati.

(Initial Report)