Batavia Kiwanis Club

Members of the Batavia Kiwanis Club stopped into "My Brother's Garage" after their weekly meeting Thursday. "My Brother's Garage" is a new secondhand store in the YWCA on North Street, where the Kiwanis meet each week. It's patterned after the long-standing and popular "My Sister's Closet" secondhand story at the Y.

There was another big turn out Saturday for the Batavia Kiwanis Club's annual Pancake Day breakfast at the Presbyterian Church in Batavia.

The Pembroke Corfu Darien Kiwanis Fall Festival and Car Cruise took place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 18 and held something for the whole family at Pembroke Town Park.

In addition to the great turn out of vehicles for the Car Cruise (more than 80 cars), there were vendors, non-profit groups, face-painting for the kids, pony rides, pumpkin patch carriage rides and a chicken barbecue by Krolick's.

More pictures from the event can be found here.

More than 200 people attended the Batavia Kiwanis Club's auction and gala to raise funds for the Child Advocacy Center at Batavia Downs.

There were certainly a lot of laughs and some great deals were struck at the auction, which brought in more than $15,000.

The few somber minutes of the evening where just before the live auction when a video about the Child Advocacy Center turned the talkative room quiet. Watch the video below. It will give you a good idea of what the CAC is all about.

If you're unable to view the slide show below, click here.

Kiwanis members in Batavia have compiled more than 200 items that will be auctioned off Saturday at Batavia Downs to help raise funds for the Child Advocacy Center.

The center provides assistance to children who are victims of sexual or physical abuse and helps with the investigation and prosecution of such crimes.

Kiwanis has set an ambition goal of raising $150,000 to help the CAC move into a non-rental location as a cost-saving measure in an era of tighter budgets and reductions in state and federal grants.

(See previous story).

Tickets for the event Saturday are $40 per person or $75 per couple. The event starts at 6 p.m. and tickets are available at the door.

After a jump, a list of the items available at the auction.

Bidding on a Brighter Future Gala 6 p.m. Sept. 17, 2011

1. Picnic Basket (Misc.) donated by gflannery -- value $25
2. Champagne Christmas basket donated by gflannery -- value $25
3. Christmas Basket and Delevan’s GC -- value $45
4. Music Basket (limited CD, Harmonica, etc.) by GF -- value $30
5. Precious Moment Basket donated by GF -- value $30
6. Christmas Basket donated by GF -- value $25
7. Christmas Plate/Sweet Esctacy Gift Certificate -- value $35
8. Misc. Kids Basket/$50 bond donated by First Niagara -- value $15
9. Valentine Basket donated by GF value $20
10. Misc. Kids Basket donated by CAC -- value $20
11. Misc. Kids Basket donated by GF -- value $15
12. Misc. Kids Basket donated byGF -- value $25
13. Points of Harmony Acupuncture Gift Certificate and basket -- value $60
14. Misc. Kids basket donated by CAC -- value $20
15. Precious Moments Basket donated by GF -- value $30
16. Photo Album/Candle/Precious Moments/misc. by GF -- value $25
17. Red Hatter Bear/Mother Basket/$20 Delevans GC -- value $40
18. Misc. Kids Basket donated by GF -- value $20
19. Misc. Kids Basket donated by CAC -- value $20
20. Misc Kids Basket donated byCAC -- value $15
21. Man's gift set mug/beer/hat/Buck knife donated by MF -- value $35
22. Misc. Kids Basket donated by CAC -- value $15
23. Misc. Kids Basket donated by CAC -- value $15
24. Precious Moments Basket donated by GF -- value $40
25. Precious Moments Basket donated by GF -- value $25
26. Precious Moments Basket donated by GF -- value $35
27. Princess Basket donated by GF -- value $20
28. Misc. Kids Basket donated by Flannery’s -- value $25
29. Pet Basket donated by Golden Oak Kennels -- value $75
30. Christmas Basket -- value $15
31. Longaberger Basket -- value $35
32. GCC Basket mugs/shirt -- value $25
33. Picnic Basket -- value $30
34. Fairy Basket -- value $15
35. Wine/Snacks -- value $35
36. Tastefully Simple donated by Deborah Snyder -- value $75
37. Buffalo Bills Basket
38. Chamilia Bracelet donated by Valle Jewelers -- value $115
39. 26” Men’s Mongoose Bike donated by Andre Dunlap NYSP -- value $200
40. Child Rocking Chair donated by Solar Giant -- value $30
41. Child Rocking Chair -- value $30
42. Child Rocking Chair -- value $30
43. Bank of Castile Snack Basket -- value $100
44. Hilton Head House, S.C. -- one week Nov. 5-12 -- value $7,000
45. Sea Glass Tower condo -- one week -- value $1,348
46. Carolina Grande Condo -- one week -- value $1,404
47. Country Comforts B & B, Keuka Lake -- one night -- value $115
48. Deep Blue Pool and Spa -- 4 person -- value $8,000
49. Seneca Niagara Casino bus trip and $35 free play for two -- value $130
50. Free Weight Machine donated by Affordable Floorcovering -- value $450
51. Beaded necklace and bracelet set donated by Batavia Peace Garden
52. Photography Gift Certificate -- value $150, donated by Robert Knipe
53. Bill's Auto: one-week stay at 5 bedroom, 3 bath condo in Myrtle Beach
54. D and R Depot -- 2 chicken pot pies every week for a year!
55. Pancake Breakfast Basket donated by Donna Lougheed -- value $40
56. Chest of lottery tickets, Gen. Co. Clerk's office staff  -- value $25
57. Cooler items donated by Bivona Child Advocacy Center -- value $40
58. Sofa donated by Max Pies
59. Seneca Niagara Casino bus trip and $35 free play for two -- value $130
60. YMCA membership 3-month membership
61. Stay and Play from Batavia Downs food/free play
62. Basket donated by Country Cottage
63. Shop Vac from Donna Ferry -- value $75
64. Party Lite basket from Tara Pariso -- value $50
65. Hardcor Audio -- car starter $270
66. Keurig coffeemaker and 4 boxes of coffee -- value $158
67. Wine/Cheese/Food basket
68. Wine/Cheese/Food basket
69. Wine/Cheese/Food basket
70. Wine/Cheese/Food basket
71. Terry Hills Golf 18 hole, Greens fee for two --  value $90
72. Terry Hills Golf 18 hole, Greens fee for two -- value $90
73. Vintage purse/Valle Jewelery donated by Larry -- value $150
74. Billy Idol album donated by Larry -- value $50
75. Mark Sanchez frame donated by Gary Maha -- value $300
76. Handmade jewelry donated by Mary Pat Magde -- value $100
77. Little Girls Birthday Party donated by From Toes to Bows -- value $40
78. Golf Bag donated by Waste Management -- value $150
79. Wine/Candle Basket -- value $40
80. First Birthday -- value $15
81. Wine/Glasses -- value $35
82. Sport Basket/Digital photo value$40
83. Deluxe Car Basket Donated by Ed Minardo -- value $70
84. Cooking Basket -- value $20
85. Christmas Basket -- value $20
86. Summer Pack -- value $20
87. Christmas Basket -- value $20
88. Salad Bowl -- value $20
89. Child Basket -- value $20
90. Eight bottles wine -- value $100
91. Johnson Guitar donated by Larry Friedman -- value $70
92. Adam Miller Basket -- value $ 30
93. Flower Basket donated by Pavilion, Leroy, Stafford Kiwanis -- value $30
94. Golf pack donated by Mike Flannery -- value $30
95. Wine Basket -- value $30
96. Baby Basket with personalized baby announcement frame -- value $80
97. Wine/Cake Basket donated by Frank Ciaccia -- value $100
98. Back-to-School Basket with Microscope -- value $ 50
99. Paris Hilton Bag donated by Days -- value $100
100. Guys T-Shirt and Beer Basket donated by Eastown Bev -- value $50
101. School Supply Basket donated by Judy Lamanna -- value $50
102. Christmas Mugs -- value $20
103. Garden Bag -- value $25
104. Snowman Basket -- value $ 30
105. Coffee/Chocolate Basket by Ler, Staff, Pav Kiwanis -- value $35
106. Girls night out by Ler, Staff, Pavilion Kiwanis -- value $60
107. The Color Salon Basket -- value $50
108. Chocolate/Wine Wyo. Co. DSS -- value $100
109. Godiva Basket donated by Boshart -- value $100
110. Lottery Ticket and $50 bill donated by Pat Corona -- value $52
111. Bathroom makeover gift basket from Sonya G. -- value $40
112. Victorinox Knife Set from Batavia Resturant Supply -- value $58
113. Harley Davidson Basket from Stan’s H.D. -- value $40
114. Two urns -- value $120
115. Japanese Maple from Pudgie's -- value $89
116. John Hodgins painting value -- $100
117. Chevall Mirror donated by Zeches -- value $89
118. Wine refrigerator from John Forsyth CPA -- value $800
119. Wortzman Sofa
120. four prints of Roy Mason paintings framed, from Pacinos
121. Five small gardens -- value $50
122. One large lamp from Attica Furniture -- value $150
123. Floor mirror donated by Mike and Norma Day -- value $300
124. School Basket donated by Santy's -- value $25
125. Delta Sonic donated by Santy's -- value $60
126. Handmade pottery donated by Practical Potter -- value $40
127. B&B Liquor w/glasses donated by Joan Ferry -- value $25
128. Breakfast Basket donated by Donna Ferry -- value $35.00
129. Perry Farmer’s Market by Megan Hauser -- value $25.00
130. Large dog bed donated by ARC -- value -- $60
131. Wine tray and chocolates donated by Donna Ferry -- value $50
132. Hand-painted glasses Stabell Studios -- value $50
133. Box of 25 cigars -- value $135
134. Godiva Chocolate Liquor, Tequila Rose w/chocolate – Joan Ferry -- value   $40
135. Dog Lover’s Bag from Donna Ferry -- value $35
136. Candle Basket  from Joan Ferry -- value $35
137. Terry Hills greens fees for 4 -- value $180
138. Gas grill w/cover Lowe's -- value $200
139. Bill’s merch. Donated by Oakfield M&T Bank -- value $50
140. Oliver's chocolate basket -- value $30
141. Four box suite seats for Buffalo Sabers game in Nov. 11 or March 12 -- value $500
142. One-year membership to BJ’s Wholesale Club
143. Fountain of Youth Organics gift bag w/kids art supplies
144. Gift basket of 31 bags donated by Greta Barnet -- value $48
145. Baking basket -- Pacinos -- valued at $25
146. Gevalia Coffeemaker and accessories donated by Days Inn -- value $50
147. Christmas lap quilt donated by Caroline Milligan -- value $200
148. Cathedral window lap quilt donated by Caroline Milligan -- value $250
149. Certificate for a handmade memory quilt donated by Caroline Milligan -- value $100
150. Original watercolor by Lucy Norton, Notre Dame student, value -- $50
151. Car detail kit -- value $50
152. (2) Treasures of Batavia Photos donated by St. James church -- value $80
153. Kindle and cover -- donated by Mary Ann Wiater/ Gen. Co. Bar Assoc. -- value 250
154. Tea and cookies -- Pacinos -- value $50
155. Spaghetti dinner -- Pacinos -- $25
156. Wine and sweets -- Pacinos -- value $25
157. Curves Basket -- value $50
158. B. Conable art work
159. B. Conable art work ES
160. Original Lorie Longhany drawing -- value $75
161. Original Lorie Longhany drawing -- value $75
162. Original Lorie Longhany drawing -- value $75
163. Original Lorie Longhany drawing -- value $75
164. Weekend at Beaver River Lodge -- Barry Miller -- value $400
165. ESL promotional items -- value $20
166. Hans Moller Jeweler sterling silver pendant -- value $80
167. YMCA three-month membership
168. Dog bed/grooming basket from DAS PetTails -- value $40

Gift Certificates

1. TF Brown-s -- $20
2. Alabama Hotel -- $25
3. Center Street Smoke House -- $20
4. Alex’s Place -- $25
5. Delevan’s -- $20
6. Spa by Artemis -- $50
7. Genesee Carquest -- $20
8. Village Inn -- two brunches -- $20
9. Darien Lake -- two passes -- $85
10. Rancho Viejo dinner for two -- $30
11. O’Lacy’s -- $20
12. O’Lacy’s -- $20
13. Tops Market -- $20
14. Continental School of Beauty -- $25
15. S & S Limo -- $50 off future rental
16. S & S Limo -- $50 off future rental
17. Batavia Tailors & Cleaners -- $50
18. Carlson's Studio -- $100
19. Sport of Kings -- $10
20. Sport of Kings -- $10
21. Twilight Meadows Restaurant -- $15
22. Twilight Meadows Restaurant -- $15
23. Twilight Meadows Restaurant -- $15
24. Mt. Morris Furniture -- $25
25. S & S Limousines -- $50 off future rental
26. Carlson's Studio -- $100
27. Kravings Kafe -- four $5 off coupons
28. Scooter's Family Restaurant donated by Gui’s -- $10
29. Scooter's Family Restaurant donated by Gui’s -- $10
30. M and M Meats -- $25
31. Radiance Spa -- $80
32. Blue Pearl Yoga -- seven classes -- $70
33. Select Collision Detail -- $175
34. Tops Market Gift Card -- $20
35. Oil Change donated by Santy's -- $30
36. Oil Change donated by Santy's -- $30
37. Bourbon & Burger Co. -- $25
38. First Choice Travel -- $250
39. Hot Head Salon -- $20
40. Red Osier -- $15
41. (3) Mark's Pizzeria gift certs good for one large pizza each
42. (2) Adult passes for Hidden Valley Animal Adventures -- $32
43. Lambert’s Design Jewelers -- $100
44. Larry’s Steakhouse -- $20
45. Gerace’s Hair Care Center -- $25
46. Alex’s Restaurant -- $15
47. The Mane Attraction -- $20
48. JCPenney -- $20
49. Alex’s Restaurant -- $20

The auction and gala to benefit the Child Advocacy Center is just around the corner -- Sept. 17 -- and auction items are rolling in. Above, Anita Strollo shows off a group of cigars in a traveling humidor that will be among the items offered up by auctioneer Seth Kent (white shirt, center), of William Kent, Inc., of Stafford.  From left are: Grace Flannery, CAC; Strollo; Tiffany Szymanek, Genesee Justice; Kent; Assemblyman Steve Hawley, who will emcee the evening's festivities; and, District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, president of Batavia Kiwanis.

The Kiwanis Club is sponsoring a "Bidding on a Brighter Future" Gala and Auction at 6 p.m., Sept. 17 at Batavia Downs. Donations of items for the auction are still being accepted. Tickets for the gala are $40 per person or $75 per couple. Checks can be mailed to: Justice for Children GLOW Foundation, Inc., 108 Bank St., Batavia, NY 14020.

Disclosure: As of Thursday, Howard Owens is a member of the Batavia Kiwanis Club.

There was a time when a child who was victimized would have to go through a gauntlet of police and medical exams while a case was built against the perpetrator.

And at the end of the process, the child and his or her family was left alone to figure out how to deal with trauma and its aftermath.

Then a group of leaders in the local criminal justice system got together and created Justice for Children and the Child Advocacy Center.

Today, when a child is sexually or physically abused, the child is no longer brought to an intimidating police station for an interview, then driven up to Strong Memorial Hospital for a physical and forensic exam, and then perhaps put through interviews with another investigator or two.

Rather, at the CAC on Bank Street, the child is welcomed into a kid-friendly environment where the investigators, medical examiners and other specialists are brought in to simplify the process for the child.

The CAC also provides ongoing counciling, support and even clothing and school supplies to families that need the assistance.

"I can't imagine going back to the way that it was before," District Attorney Lawrence Friedman said. "It's just a great place."

Friedman is also president this year of the Batavia Kiwanis Club. As a national organization, Kiwanis has a mission of engaging in charitable and civic work on behalf of children. The Batavia Kiwanis adopted the CAC as its long-term project.

The first order of business is to raise $150,000 to buy a new building to house the CAC. The club's goal is to raise $100,000 itself and is asking other Kiwanis clubs to contribute a combined $50,000.

"It's hard for me to imagine a more worthwhile long-term project for our club," Friedman said. 

Currently, the CAC pays $1,300 a month in rent -- down from $1,500 when the landlord provided lawn care that is now performed by volunteers -- mostly Kiwanis members. 

Friedman said that $1,300 a month that could be used to benefit children directly, and it's also a big expense in an age when state and federal grants are being reduced.

According to Genesee Justice Director Tiffany Szymanek, the CAC receives money from three primary grants -- National Children's Alliance, NYS Office of Child and Family Services and NYS Office of Victims' Services.

A new formula for state grants has more funds going to CACs in larger cities and cuts to smaller cities, Szymanek said.

Cuts have forced CAC to reduce staffing from two full-time employees to one and a half, with the hours of Grace Flannery, a child advocate (pictured) having her hours cut in half.

Flannery's job is to help guide a child and family through the process, from the day the child first walks into the toy filled waiting room through the criminal investigation, the court proceedings and any counseling.

The waiting room, Flannery said, "at least makes them feel a little more comfortable."

It's a symbol of what the CAC tries to accomplish -- avoid victimizing children again by putting through the trauma of reliving their experiences in sterile, adult environments.

"If they are escorted from service to service, they are just re-victimized and re-victimized," Szymanek said.

In a tour, Flannery showed off the CAC's child-friendly exam rooms, the clothes closet, the school supplies stacked in the employee break room and a boardroom filling up quickly with donations for an upcoming fundraiser. She said many times she thinks the community needs to know about the work the CAC does to help victimized children.

"The CAC is a marvelous resource that the community should know about," Flannery said. "Anything you can do to help get the word out, we really appreciate."

The Kiwanis Club is sponsoring a "Bidding on a Brighter Future" Gala and Auction at 6 p.m., Sept. 17 at Batavia Downs. Donations of items for the auction are still being accepted. Tickets for the gala are $40 per person or $75 per couple. Checks can be mailed to: Justice for Children GLOW Foundation, Inc., 108 Bank St., Batavia, NY 14020.

Disclosure: As of Thursday, Howard Owens is a member of the Batavia Kiwanis Club.

Lawrence Friedman, president of the Batavia Kiwanis Club, accepts a $350 donation from Bleyke Culver for the Child Advocacy Center.

With some grant funding being cut, local Kiwanians have stepped in to try and fill any potential budget gap. Batavia Kiwanis set a goal of raising $100,000 for the center, which provides assistance to abused children. Other area Kiwanis clubs are being asked to raise another $50,000.

Bleyke, a 16-year-old Batavia resident, was representing the Genesee County foster care program. The county's foster care program provides a number of field trips for foster children throughout the summer.

Typically, the foster children raise funds for their own field trips, but this year, the program received an unexpected donation from a former county employee. The foster children decided to donate some of the extra money in the program to the CAC.

Members of the Genesee County legal community gathered at Bohn's Restaurant on Thursday evening for the Law Day Observance & Law Enforcement Recognition Dinner.

Above, Deputy Ron Meides receives an award from Sheriff Gary Maha while District Attorney Lawrence Friedman looks on. Second photo, Investigator Leo Hunter accepts an award from State Police. Presenting the award, left, was Lt. John Aqualina of the NYSP.

Officer Emily Clark, Le Roy PD, received an award.

The four law enforcement award winners, Meides, Clark, Batavia PD Det. Paul Caffo and Hunter.

The Batavia High School Mock Trial Team, winners of the local competition for the ninth straight year. On the team (though not in picture order, nor are all members pictured): Will Ely, Chad Luce, Jenna Bauer, Evan Sutherland, Patrick Flynn, Maura Chmielowiec, Mckenzie Stevens, Zeke Lynn, Eva Reda-Kendrick, Nate Kabel, Matt Gabrielle, Taylor Sanders, Katlin Logsdon, Kaitlynn Walker and Trey Abdella. The teacher coach, back row, left, is Brandon Ricci, and the attorney coach, back row, right, is Billy Tedford.

Pastor Philip Green, center, with Sheriff Maha and Undersheriff Bill Sheron, also received a special recognition award for his work with the department. Green was the 2011 National Sheriff's Association "Chaplain of the Year."

Sarah Palermo was honored by GCASA for her anti-DWI contributions.

UPDATE: To purchase pictures, click here.

Full press release for the law enforcement awards after the jump:

Kiwanis President Lawrence Friedman announced the awards during a dinner held at Bohn’s Restaurant on Thursday, April 28, 2011. The awards dinner was held in partnership with the Genesee County Bar Association during their observance of Law Day. The honored speaker at the dinner was Victor I. Vieth, JD, Director of the National Child Prevention Training Center, Winona State University, Winona, Minn.

Background Information about the Award

The purpose of the Law Enforcement Recognition Award is to honor those members of our local law enforcement agencies who have demonstrated principles and ideals consistent with those promoted by the Kiwanis Club of Batavia.

Nominations for the award were evaluated based upon the candidates’ actions and achievements, in their personal and professional lives, which demonstrate precepts consistent with those of the Kiwanis Club of Batavia, specifically: - A commitment to human and spiritual qualities, rather than material values. - Adoption and application of high social, business and professional standards. - Citizenship and service to the community and their agency. - A desire to create and maintain sound public opinion and high idealism, which promotes compassion, justice, patriotism and goodwill.

All sworn and civilian employees serving in local law enforcement agencies within Genesee County are eligible for this award.

2011 AWARD RECIPIENTS

Detective Paul B. Caffo, City of Batavia Police Department Detective Paul B. Caffo has been a member of the City of Batavia Police Department for 18 years. Detective Caffo grew up in Batavia and graduated from Batavia High School in 1986. During his career with the Batavia Police Department, Detective Caffo has received numerous commendations for his work as a police officer and detective. The overwhelming theme in Detective Caffo’s work is his spirit of cooperation with members of his department and other law enforcement agencies. Detective Caffo is currently assigned to the Local Law Enforcement Drug Task Force and makes himself available to officers seven days a week and 24 hours a day. Even with this demand on his time, Detective Caffo still assists the Detective Bureau with criminal investigations and rotating with the on-call schedule. Detective Caffo resides in the Town of Batavia with his wife, Kelly, and was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Police Chief Randy Baker.

Deputy Ronald E. Meides – Genesee County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Ronald E. Meides is a 20-year veteran with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. He started as a Corrections Officer in 1991 and was appointed a Deputy Sheriff in 1993. Deputy Meides is currently assigned to road patrol and works out of the Sheriff’s Darien Satellite station. Deputy Meides is a dedicated, compassionate and professional law enforcement officer and performs his duties with enthusiasm. He has had extensive training during his tenure with the Sheriff’s Office and was the 2009 Officer of the Year. Deputy Meides assists his community in many ways. He is an active member of the Darien Fire Department and has coached T-ball and fall soccer for the Bennington Town Youth Athletics. He is also a soccer coach for the Attica Youth Athletics. Deputy Meides has assisted the Boy Scouts by participating in the 2007 Merit Badge College Event in the areas of traffic safety and fingerprinting. Annually, Deputy Meides instructs at Darien Lake with regard on how to recognize fraudulent or altered drivers’ licenses. Deputy Meides is very aggressive in DWI enforcement and in 1995 was recognized by the Genesee County Chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for his outstanding efforts. Deputy Meides is the recipient of two Commendation Awards and two Meritorious Service Awards and has received numerous letters of appreciation from the citizens he serves. Deputy Meides resides in the Town of Darien with his wife, Mary Beth, and their children. Deputy Meides was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Sheriff Gary T. Maha.

Police Officer Emily J. Clark, Village of Le Roy Police Department Police Officer Emily J. Clark has been a member of the Village of Le Roy Police Department for six years. She is currently assigned as a patrol officer and also works with the Local Law Enforcement Drug Task Force. Officer Clark is known for her positive attitude and has a determination to do the job right. She tries to make her work with the public a good experience and is always courteous and professional. Last year, Officer Clark assisted the Local Law Enforcement Drug Task Force for several months, which led to the arrests of several individuals for methamphetamine distribution within the county. Recently, she investigated a forged prescription case and worked with the Drug Task Force, which led to the arrest of an individual being charged with 100 felonies. Officer Clark also has a great rapport with the teenagers in the community, to a point where they feel comfortable in talking with her about police and non-police related matters. As a result of this rapport, she has developed many leads on open cases, but more importantly, she is a resource for some of the community’s more troubled young people. Officer Clark resides in the Village of Le Roy and was nominated for this award by her commanding officer, Police Chief Christopher Hayward.

Investigator Leo M. Hunter, New York State Police Investigator Leo M. Hunter is a 28-year veteran with the New York State Police. Investigator Hunter is currently assigned to the Bureau of Criminal Investigations and works out of the State Police Batavia Headquarters. His primary duties include the investigation of felony-level crimes, including crimes against children, sexual offenses, burglaries, assaults, etc. Investigator Hunter has been involved in thousands of investigations for the citizens of Genesee County. Investigator Hunter is a lifelong resident of Genesee County, has raised six children and currently resides in the City of Batavia. Investigator Hunter was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Major Christopher L. Cummings, Troop “A” Commander.

Kiwanis President Larry Friedman presented the awards on behalf of the Kiwanis Club of Batavia.

CHARLES L. MANCUSO AWARD

The “Charles L. Mancuso Award” was presented to the members of the Batavia High School Mock Trial Team as winners of the 2011 GLOWS (Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, Wyoming and Steuben counties) District Competition in the New York State Bar Association High School Mock Trial Tournament. The award reads “Dedicated to the Memory of an Outstanding Attorney-Citizen." Mr. Mancuso, a Batavia lawyer, served as coordinator of the local competition until his untimely death five years ago. The BHS team members honored at the dinner included: Will Ely, Chad Luce, Jenna Bauer, Evan Sutherland, Patrick Flynn, Maura Chmielowiec, Mckenzie Stevens, Zeke Lynn, Eva Reda-Kendrick, Nate Kabel, Matt Gabrielle, Taylor Sanders, Kaitlin Logsdon, Kaitlynn Walker and Trey Abdella. The team, coached by Social Studies Teacher Brandon Ricci and Attorney William Tedford, has competed in, and won, the local tournament for each of the past nine years.

Genesee County District Attorney Lawrence Friedman, who serves as president of the Kiwanis Club of Batavia and coordinator of the local Mock Trial Program, and Genesee County Bar Association President Durin Rogers presented the award.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION - 2011 NATIONAL SHERIFFS’ ASSOCIATION CHAPLAIN OF THE YEAR AWARD

A Special Recognition Award was presented to Pastor Philip A. Green who was selected by the National Sheriffs’ Association as its “2011 Chaplain of the Year." Pastor Green volunteers as Chaplain for the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and makes himself available whenever needed. He assists officers when making death notifications to victims’ families and during other traumatic events. Each year he sponsors and organizes “Red and Blue Sunday” at his church, whereby he and his congregation recognize and express their appreciation to first responders and elected officials within the county. Pastor Green will be presented the “Chaplain of the Year” award by the National Sheriffs’ Association this June in St. Louis. Pastor Green is senior pastor for the First Baptist Church in Pavilion, NY, where he resides with his wife, Marun, and their three children.

The Special Recognition Award was presented by Sheriff Gary T. Maha.

KATHY SEYMOUR VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD

The Genesee Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (GCASA) presented its Kathy Seymour Volunteer Service Award during the dinner. This award is presented to a citizen, volunteer, law enforcement officer or emergency medical service provider whose actions and commitment have helped to make our community a safer place. This year’s award was presented to Sarah Palermo. Sarah is a volunteer on the DWI Victim Impact Panel.

The award was presented by Laura Ricci, Prevention Educator/VIP Coordinator, GCASA.

A big, fun Easter Egg Hunt begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 23 at Centennial Park in the City of Batavia.

This annual event -- for children age 10 and under -- is put on by the Batavia Kiwanis.

Centennial Park is located at Ellicott Avenue and Richmond Avenue.

The First Presbyterian Church Service Building was packed Saturday morning with hungry pancake eaters for the 52nd Kiwanis Pancake Days breakfast. At one point, the wait to get into the dining hall was 45 minutes long.

Above, Betty Ingram displays a heart-shaped pancake delivered to her by Sheriff Gary Maha.

To purchase pictures of Saturday's event, click here.

More photos after the jump:

Top Photo, from left: Miller, Camp, Dibble, Harmon.

Four local cops were honored Thursday night by the Genesee County Bar Association and the Batavia Kiwanis Club for their dedication and good work during the past year.

Recognized in the annual awards ceremony at Bohn's Restaurant were:

• Officer Eric Miller, Village of Le Roy Police Department;
• Patrolman Christopher Camp, the Batavia Police Department;
• Chief Deputy Gordon Dibble, Genesee County Sherriff's Office;
• Sgt. Cory Harmon, New York State Police.

Also honored during the annual Law Day celebration was Daniel A. Rybak, who was named Attorney of the Year.

The mock trial team of Batavia High School received the Charles L. Mancuso Award. The team won the 2010 GLOW region Mock Trial Tournament.

William J. Hochul Jr., United States Attorney for the Western District of New York, served as the keynote speaker. 

The WNY native was promoted to his current post about a month ago. Previously, he served as a counter-terrorism attorney for the U.S. Attorney's Office. Hochul spoke about the role that all members of the legal community -- law enforcement, prosecutors and defense attorneys -- play in helping the United States fight terrorism, especially within our borders.

"Each of us in this room – men, women, children, high school students -- have a critical role to ensure that the American legal system remains as a tool to us to fight terrorism," Hochul said.

Hochul said local law enforcement plays is the first-line of defense against domestic terrorism.

"The federal government can’t be everywhere domestic terrorists might be living," Hochul said. "Nationwide, worldwide, really, there’s only 10,000 or so FBI agents."

Without local law enforcement, he said, "we wouldn’t be able to even see the domestic terrorism threat, much less address it.”

Because maintaining the rule of law is vital to keeping our justice system working, Hochul said, defense attorneys who challenge prosecutions' theories and assertions help keep the necessary balance to the system.

"My message to you all is let’s follow the rule of law," Hochul said. "Let’s use the system we have, and where appropriate, my office, the Western New York Office of United States Attorney, stands ready to help."

Inset, Hochul. Above, members of the Batavia High mock trial team.

After the jump are pictures and information on each of the award winners:

Photo: Chief Randy Baker and Officer Camp.

Patrolman Christopher Camp, City of Batavia Police Department
Patrolman Christopher Camp has been a member of the City of Batavia Police Department for four years. He is a 2002 graduate of Attica High School and attended Genesee Community College.

Officer Camp is assigned to road patrol and is a member of the Emergency Response Team. He is a certified scuba diver and has received training in CPR and First Aid. Officer Camp also serves as a Field Training Officer and has volunteered to serve as an honor guard member. During this past year, Officer Camp has demonstrated his professionalism, dedication and service to the community with regard to several incidents he has handled.

During May 2009, Officer Camp, along with other officers, was successful in taking into custody, without injury, an individual who was displaying mental issues who drove a large piece of agricultural equipment into the City of Batavia and damaged several vehicles.

During August 2009, Officer Camp and another officer were able to take into custody a woman who had threatened suicide and cut her wrists with a large knife, and during November 2009, Officer Camp was confronted and attacked by a distraught individual who was subsequently taken into custody without serious injury.

During February 2010, Officer Camp responded to the scene of a house fire and at great risk to his own personal safety attempted to enter the house to save a citizen.

Officer Camp has assisted with coaching the Batavia Youth Soccer team and resides with his family in Attica, New York. He was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Chief Randy Baker.

Photo: Sheriff Gary Maha with Dibble

Chief Deputy Gordon L. Dibble, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office
Chief Deputy Gordon L. Dibble is a 35-year veteran of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Chief Dibble oversees the operations of the Road Patrol Division of the Sheriff’s Office and is a member of the Sheriff’s Administration staff.

Chief Dibble is a lifelong resident of Genesee County and a graduate of Pembroke High School. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Corrections from Aurora College in Illinois in 1974.

He joined the Sheriff’s Office in 1975 and was assigned to Corrections. In 1977, he was transferred to the Criminal Division and worked as a road patrol officer until 1980, when he was appointed a Youth Officer. He became the agency’s first certified D.A.R.E instructor and gained the trust and respect of school administrators, students and educators.

As Youth Officer, Chief Dibble instituted several youth-safety programs including the use of a small robot car named “Shadow," which was purchased by the Kiwanis Club of Batavia in 1989. Chief Dibble spends an enormous amount of time helping employees and citizens of Genesee County in his day-to-day duties as supervisor of the Road Patrol Division.

He is a professional, dedicated officer who is committed to the law enforcement profession and is willing to assist whenever and wherever needed. Chief Dibble oversees traffic details during the concert season at Darien Lake and has worked tirelessly with Darien Lake officials and other stakeholders to improve traffic safety in that area.

Chief Dibble is the recipient of two Commendations, three Meritorious Service Awards and was named Officer of the Year in 1984. He has been recognized by the local chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Drivers for his efforts in combating DWI and in 2009, was awarded the New York State Sheriffs’ Association’s Carl Draxler Award for Meritorious Service. Chief Dibble and his wife, Peggy, reside in the Town of Pembroke and have three boys: Eric - age 29, Russell - age 24 and Jeffrey - age 19. Chief Dibble was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Sheriff Gary T. Maha.

Photo: Le Roy Chief Chris Hayward with Miller.

Police Officer Eric H. Miller, Village of LeRoy Police Department Police
Officer Eric H. Miller is a 14-year veteran with the Village of LeRoy Police Department. For the past seven years, Officer Miller has been serving as a School Resource Officer for the LeRoy School District.

Officer Miller has built relationships and trusts to make the school district a safe and comfortable atmosphere for the children of the district and has always been at ease with school-age children and the respect they have for him is evident in his day-to-day contact with them.

High School Principal Joseph Englebert wrote: “Eric works very closely with the youth in our community as a School Resource Officer. He works throughout the school district with administration to keep our students and staff safe. He develops relationships with students that assist the administration in being proactive when dealing with discipline issues, instead of being reactive.

He goes into the classroom to educate students on safety and legal issues and he is present at school events, adding an extra layer of security, so that community members can feel safe and enjoy themselves. He is a liaison to other law enforcement organizations and the LeRoy safety networks. His presence throughout the district makes a difference on a daily basis.”

Officer Miller was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Chief Christopher Hayward.

Photo: Major Christopher Cummings with Harmon.

Sergeant Corey S. Harmon, New York State Police
Sergeant Corey S. Harmon has been a member of the New York State Police for 11 years.

Sergeant Harmon is a Station Commander and supervises the State Police Batavia road patrols and is responsible for coordinating DWI, Aggressive Driving and Traffic Corridor details.

During this past year, Sergeant Harmon has distinguished himself in many ways. In June 2009, Sergeant Harmon was instrumental in the capture of three armed bank robbers stemming from the robbery of the M&T Bank in Elba, NY. His quick response allowed him to identify the suspect vehicle as it fled the scene, and his assistance in coordinating the large scale search detail resulted in the successful apprehension of the three suspects involved. His actions earned him a State Police Superintendent’s Letter of Commendation.

Additionally, Sergeant Harmon is credited with having supervised and motivated a number of State Police members, instilling in them the goals of promoting justice and goodwill to those they serve. His leadership led to a marked increase across all enforcement categories.

Sergeant Harmon’s exceptional ability to plan and schedule was also highlighted during this last year with regard to the Darien Lake Concert season. Traffic-related initiatives include DWI checkpoints and multi-agency Under Age Drinking details.

Sergeant Harmon oversaw the 2009 Genesee County Traffic Corridor, which targeted erratic operation occurring along State Route 63 in a quest to reduce motor vehicle accidents. In doing so, he managed both the resources and overtime associated with the 48 traffic details that were responsible for issuing 499 traffic tickets over a six-month period, creating a safer environment.

Sergeant Harmon was the 2009 Troop “A” Zone One recipient of the Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) Special Recognition Award. Sergeant Harmon resides in the Town of Wilson, Niagara County, with his wife, Allison, and their 1-year-old son, Max.

Sergeant Harmon was nominated for this award by his commanding officers, Major Christopher Cummings and Captain Craig Hanesworth.

CHARLES L. MANCUSO AWARD
During the dinner, the Genesee County Bar Association presented the fourth annual “Charles L. Mancuso Award” to Batavia High School, the 2010 winner of the GLOW (Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming) District Competition in the New York State Mock Trial Tournament. The award reads, “Dedicated to the Memory of an Outstanding Attorney-Citizen."  Mr. Mancuso, a Batavia lawyer, served as Coordinator of the local competition until his untimely death four years ago. The BHS team members honored at the dinner included: Patrick Flynn, Tim Redband, Adi Marino, Kaitlyn Logsdon, McKenzie Stevens, Jenna Bauer, Maura Chmielowiec, Sahil Jain, C.J. Shultz, Will Ely, Kristen Klein, Chad Luce, and Evan Sutherland. The team, coached by Social Studies Teacher Tim Stevens, has competed in, and won, the local tournament for each of the past eight years.

2010 ATTORNEY OF THE YEAR AWARD
The Genesee County Bar Association presented their “2010 Attorney of the Year Award” to Daniel A. Rybak, a Batavia attorney.

Mr. Rybak graduated from Notre Dame as an undergraduate in 1967 and Notre Dame Law School in 1970. He was admitted to the New York State Bar in February 1971. Mr. Rybak was hired as an associate with Stakel, Suttell and Found, and a few years later he became a partner – Stakel, Suttell, Found and Rybak.

The practice is now Rybak, Metzler and Grasso. Mr. Rybak has been very involved in the community including serving as past president of the board for the Batavia Area YMCA; past board member of the St. Jerome Hospital Foundation; Notre Dame high school board of trustees; member of the Peace and Justice Commission of the Diocese of Buffalo; member of the Genesee County Bar Association Grievance Committee; member of the Grievance Committee, 4th Department, 8th Judicial District; and member for several years of the House of Delegates of the New York State Bar Association, representing attorneys from all of New York State.

Mr. Rybak is a native of Perry and now resides with his wife, Lorraine, in the City of Batavia.

Additional pictures from the evening below:

Last photo: Camp with Lt. Henning.