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FOURTH OF JULY

Government and fire officials urge caution when handling sparkling devices this Fourth of July weekend

By Press Release

Press release:

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services urges caution when handling sparkling devices during the upcoming Fourth of July holiday.

All other types of consumer fireworks remain illegal statewide, including firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, spinners, and aerial devices.

The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services and State Office of Fire Prevention and Control today urged New Yorkers to handle sparkling devices responsibly when celebrating the Fourth of July.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates approximately 10,000 people were treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries associated with fireworks in 2019. Almost three-quarter of injuries occurred during a one-month period around the Fourth of July.

“When joining with family and friends to celebrate the birth of our great nation this year, I urge all New Yorkers to handle sparkling devices carefully since mishandling these devices can cause significant burn injuries,” said New York State Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Patrick A. Murphy.

“Remember it is illegal for anyone under 18 years old to use sparkling devices.”

New York State Law allows for the sale and use of a specific category of consumer fireworks known as sparkling devices. Legal ground-based or handheld sparkling devices produce a shower of colored sparks or a colored flame, audible crackling, or whistling noise and smoke. The devices do not launch into the air.

Sparkling devices are legal in all New York State counties except Albany, Columbia, Schenectady, and Westchester, some cities in Orange County (see local laws), all five boroughs of New York City, and Long Island.

All other types of consumer fireworks, including firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, spinners, and aerial devices, remain illegal statewide.

“As with any device which purposely emits live sparks and fire, it should be easy to understand the need for extra caution when handling sparkling devices,” said Acting State Fire Administrator James Cable. “Be sure to obtain all such devices legally and follow all safety instructions which come with the packaging to ensure loved ones and neighbors stay injury-free throughout the holiday.

"Have fun, but please be mindful of your own and others’ safety when using sparkling devices.”

Sales of sparkling devices by certified permanent and specialty retailers can only occur from June 1 to July 5 and Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. Sales of sparkling devices by certified temporary stands or tents can only occur from June 20 to July 5 and Dec. 26 to Jan. 1.

Sellers, manufacturers, and distributors of sparkling devices must apply for a license from the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control and follow other rules and conditions.

Registered sparkling device vendors (four) in Genesee County are listed below:

  • Tops Market LLC, 128 W. Main St., Le Roy, NY 14482
  • Tops Market LLC, 390 W. Main St., Batavia, NY 14020
  • Keystone Novelties Distributors LLC, 125 W. Main St., Le Roy, NY 14482 -- Temporary Retailer
  • Keystone Novelties Distributors LLC, C Store, 8073 Clinton St., Bergen, NY 14416 -- Temporary Retailer

​To see the entire NYS list, click here (pdf).

If sparkling devices are legal to purchase in your county, the Office of Fire Prevention and Control offers the following safety tips:

  • Purchase sparkling and novelty devices from New York State registered retailers only;
  • Always follow directions located on the packaging;
  • Never allow young children to handle fireworks or sparkling devices. It is illegal for anyone under 18 years old to use sparkling devices;
  • Never use sparkling devices indoors. All sparkling devices are for outdoor use only;
  • Always wear eye protection when using sparkling devices;
  • Never light more than one sparkling device at a time;
  • Never point a sparkling device tube toward anyone or any part of your body;
  • Keep sparkling and novelty devices in a safe secure location when not in use;
  • Never use sparkling devices when under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
  • Always keep an approved fire extinguisher nearby during a display. Douse malfunctioning and spent devices with water before discarding to prevent a fire;
  • Store sparkling devices in a safe location away from young children;
  • Keep unused sparkling devices dry and away from ignition sources.

For more information on the sale and use of sparkling devices in New York State, visit the Office of Fire Prevention and Control website.

As we approach the July Fourth Independence Day Holiday, Fire Chief Stefano Napolitano of the City of Batavia Fire Department would like to remind residents that: “We want to ensure that our residents enjoy the holiday in a safe and responsible manner. It is important to take the necessary fire safety precautionary steps when using these devices.”

If any resident has questions regarding what is allowable or would like information regarding safety precautions, they can call the City of Batavia Fire Headquarters at (585) 345-6375.

“We see a steady increase in calls for service this time of year for fireworks related complaints,” said Police Chief Shawn Heubusch. “Residents are cautioned that if fireworks are purchased out of state or over the internet and do not meet the definition of sparkling device, they are not only illegal, but are dangerous. We want to ensure that everyone has a safe and happy July Fourth Holiday.”

Patriot tot in Batavia waves the stars and stripes

By Billie Owens

Photo courtesy of reader Barbara Penrod, who wrote us yesterday saying: "My daughter took this picture of my grandson who is very proud of his country and he's only 2 years old. He lives in Batavia with his mom and dad and little brother. Thought it may make someone smile."

Jam At The Ridge to hold 12th annual Fourth of July Weekend Celebration starting tomorrow

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Jam At The Ridge: This week, Western New York's Family Fun Destination, is having a Fourth of July Weekend Celebration.

This 12th annual, open to the public event, is for all ages and looks keep folks safe while having fun.

Thursday, July 2nd
 - Live Band: Judah, makes their Jam At The Ridge debut
 - Pizza and Wings Special, with cold beer on-tap

Friday, July 3rd
 - DJ Josh will rock the night away (no stage access, but there are 2 acres of space to socially distance while getting your groove on)
 - Professional Fireworks thanks to Young Explosives
 - Tie-dye and a Water War

Saturday, July 4th
 - The Giant Slip and Slide
 - and sign up for a night time glowing wagon ride (family groups together)

Jam At The Ridge is a recreation, entertainment, and camping facility focused primarily on family fun. Bring the kids and the grandparents and enjoy a great time, whatever we're doing. Have a great meal in our on-site restaurant (no microwaves), take a dip in our crystal clear in-ground swimming pool, catch a great concert with some of the best artists around (local, regional and national), and camp under the stars with a tent, RV, or one of our cabins.

Come join our family for some long overdue fun!

Greg, Dave and The JATR Team

Jam At The Ridge, 8101 Conlon Road, Le Roy
(585) 768-4883
info@theridgeny.com
www.JamAtTheRidge.com

Sixth annual Kiwanis Independence Day 5K race

By Steve Ognibene

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More than 200 participants walked or ran in the Batavia Kiwanis Club's annual 5K race on Independence Day, a 10-percent increase over last year, said race director David Chua.

It started at the top of Centennial Park on Richmond Avenue and went north by Dwyer Stadium to East Avenue. The runners end just off Washington Avenue at the bottom of the park on Ellicott Avenue. 

Chua said this year’s proceeds were broken into thirds: the organization for autism research; Batavia City Schools District Foundation; and the last third is distributed by the Kiwanis Club to local children’s organizations.

First Place and top male finisher was William Buckenmeyer from Batavia, time 18:25. Top female finisher was Kimberly Mills from Oakfield time 20:50; she finished 11th overall.

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Statewide STOP-DWI crackdown begins today, ends Sunday

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee County STOP DWI Coordinator Matt Landers announced today that the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, City of Batavia Police Department and the Village of Le Roy Police Department will participate in a special enforcement effort to crackdown on impaired driving.

The statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown efforts start today, July 3rd and will end on Sunday, July 7th.

The Fourth of July extended weekend is historically a deadly period for impaired driving. This year the 4th of July falls on a Thursday so we expect heavy traveling to begin on Wednesday, July 3rd and festivities to begin on July 4th and run through Sunday, July 7th.

Americans love to celebrate the Fourth of July with family, friends, food and fireworks, but all too often the festivities turn tragic on the nation's roads. The fact is this iconic American holiday is also one of the deadliest holidays of the year due to drunk-driving crashes.

Research shows that high-visibility enforcement can reduce drunk driving fatalities by as much as 20 percent. Sobriety checkpoints play a key part in raising awareness about the problem. The New York State Police, County Sheriff and municipal law enforcement agencies will collaborate across the state and will be out in force in this coordinated effort to aggressively target those who put lives in danger.

The Fourth Weekend Crackdown is one of many statewide enforcement initiatives promoted by the New York State STOP-DWI Association. The Statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign also targets Labor Day Weekend, Halloween and the national Holiday Season in December.

While STOP-DWI efforts across New York have led to significant reductions in the numbers of alcohol and drug related fatalities, still too many lives are being lost because of crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers. Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign aim to further reduce the incidence of drunk and impaired driving.

You can help to make a difference by Having a Sober Plan! Download our mobile app – “Have a Plan” and you will always be able to find a safe ride home www.stopdwi.org/mobileapp

Impaired driving is completely preventable. All it takes is a little planning.

Hawley wishes everyone a Happy Independence Day

By Billie Owens

A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on the  Fouth of July holiday:

“The Fourth of July, our nation’s birthday, is a crucial reminder of the day our founders declared us free from British rule and thus an independent and self-governing nation. Although a bold and unprecedented move by American colonialists, it paved the way for springs of freedom and self-determination to erupt all over the globe – ushering in a wave of democracy.

“Our founding fathers, the patriots who forged our nation through a crucible of revolution, knew that the will of men and women to live free, govern themselves and choose their own destiny was undeniable and worth any sacrifice they may endure.

“Contemporarily, Independence Day is a time when citizens come together unified as Americans to celebrate their freedom and enjoy the privileges that come under our nation’s governance. We spend time with friends and family, enjoy barbeques, fly our flags and, of course, watch fireworks. 

“Throughout this weekend’s celebrations let us not take for granted the tremendous sacrifices paid by our veterans to preserve America’s freedom and the countless service members deployed across the globe who will not be with their families this holiday. Please take time to thank a veteran or service member in your life this weekend for their role in protecting our nation.

“The fight for liberty and justice is never complete; and as Americans it is our duty to remember and cherish our independence. It is a day to celebrate our freedom, our country, our triumphs and to remember all those men and women who have served our nation and who have made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of those ideals. 

“Although this holiday is a joyous occasion, I encourage everyone to stay safe and to celebrate responsibly with family and friends. Happy Independence Day!”

Uncle Sam wants YOU at GO ART!'s Picnic in the Park on the Fourth of July

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Original Red Osier Landmark Restaurant in Stafford presents GO ART!'s 41st Annual Picnic in the Park on Thursday, July 4th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Centennial Park in Batavia.

Event kicks off with a Kiddie Parade. Decorating bikes begins at 10:30 a.m. The parade takes off down Ellicott Avenue hill at 11 o'clock.

Food vendors include Red Osier Landmark Restaurant, Abbott's Ice Cream, Kernel Cravin’ Kettle Corn, Lonsberry Concessions, and Over the Border! Mack Truck, and Ali's Concessions.

Musical performances by Batavia Concert Band at noon, Byrne Brothers Irish Band from 12-2 p.m., Grizzwoode at 2:45 to 3:45 p.m. and again from 4-5 p.m.

Don't miss Old Time family activities between acts, such as sack races, tug of war and a kids’ hula hoop contest.

Explore Arts Tent with kids’ art activities, face painting, bounce house. Mad Hatter performances at 12, 1:30 and 3 in Artisan Alley. Six Senses Escape Room will hold a scavenger hunt starting in Artisan Alley. 

More than 30 arts and crafts vendors on North Street and nonprofits in the lower park.

Uncle Sam wants you at GO ART!'s 41st Annual Picnic in the Park!

City fire chief reminds residents of what kinds of fireworks are allowed by law

By Billie Owens

Press release:

As we approach the July 4th Independence Day holiday, Fire Chief Stefano Napolitano of the City of Batavia Fire Department would like to remind the residents of the City of what is allowed by law.

“We want to ensure that our residents enjoy the holiday in a safe and responsible manner,” Napolitano said.

The law enacted on Jan. 1, 2018, states that buying, selling, and using sparking devices (not fireworks) is only legal in the counties and cities that have not enacted a local law pursuant to section 405.00 of the Penal Law of New York.

These sparking devices are legal everywhere in the state except for in Bronx, Columbia, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Richmond and Schenectady counties.

According to the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, "Sparking Devices" are considered, “ground-based or handheld devices that produce a shower of colored sparks andor a colored flame, audible crackling or whistling noise and smoke.”

Napolitano also stated, “These sparkling devices can only be bought and sold from June 1st to July 5th and from Dec. 26th to Jan. 1st in any given year.”

Furthermore, the law states that “Sales of sparklingdevices by certified temporary stands or tents can only occur from June 20th to July 5th and Dec. 26th to Jan. 1st in any given year.”

According to Napolitano, allowable sparkling devices under the law are sparkling fountains, sparklers on wooden sticks (not metal sticks), smoking devices, snakes confetti-filled party poppers and paper-wrapped snappers.

Non-allowable and illegal devices include firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles and any other aerial devices.

Lastly, Napolitano said,” It is important to take the necessary fire safety precautionary steps when usingthese devices. Last year there were a reported 12,900 fireworks-related injuries (in the United States)."

If any resident has questions regarding what is allowable or would like information regarding safety precautions, they can call the City of Batavia Fire Headquarters at 585-345-6375.

GO ART's 41st Annual Picnic in the Park on Fourth of July is just around the corner

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Original Red Osier Restaurant presents GO ART!'s 41st Annual Picnic in the Park on July 4th from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Centennial Park in Batavia.

Event kicks off with a Kiddie Parade. Decorating of bikes begins at 10:30. The parade takes off down Ellicott Avenue hill at 11 o'clock.

Food vendors include Red Osier, Abbott's Ice Cream, Kernel Cravin’ Kettle Corn, Lonsberry Concessions, and Over the Border!

Musical performances by Batavia Concert Band, Byrne Brothers Irish Band, and Grizzwoode.

Don't miss old-time family activities between acts, such as onion eating, sack races, tug o' war and a kids’ hula hoop contest.

Explore Arts Tent with kids’ art activities, face painting and short plays are presented in Artisan Alley. Escape Room holding a scavenger hunt.

More than 20 arts and crafts vendors on North Street and nonprofits in the lower park!

Uncle Sam wants you! at GO ART’s 41st Annual Picnic in the Park.

Centennial Park is located at 151 State St. in the city.

Photos: GO ART!'S 40th annual Picnic in the Park 2018

By Steve Ognibene

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The Original Red Osier Landmark Restaurant in Stafford presented GO ART!'s 40th annual Picnic in the Park today in Centennial Park. There were many local nonprofit sponsored booths along with food, arts and crafts vendors.  

A variety of bands were showcased on the main stage and Buffalo Aerial Dance performed next to the stage. A kiddie parade kicked things off and children's activities continued throughout the day.

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Kelly's Old Timers band

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Assemblyman Hawley wishes everyone a 'Happy Independence Day!'

By Billie Owens

Press release from Assemblyman Steve Hawley:

“As we wade into the dog days of summer, Independence Day is a cherished reminder that the American Dream is alive and well and the right of any nation and its people to live free should not be infringed upon.

“Our founding fathers, the patriots who forged our nation through a crucible of revolution, knew that the will of men and women to live free, govern themselves and choose their own destiny was undeniable and worth any sacrifice they may endure.

“The strength and courage of our founders to break from the tyranny of Great Britain, their home country, ultimately gave rise to the greatest military, economic and social power in world history, the United States of America.

“It is a true gift to have a sense of patriotism and it will forever be our responsibility to remember the brave men and women who made our country what it is today. The fight for liberty and justice is never complete; and as Americans it is our duty to remember and cherish our independence.

"It is a day to celebrate our freedom, our country, our triumphs and to remember all those men and women who have served our nation and who have made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of those ideals.

“Although this holiday is a joyous occasion, I encourage everyone to stay safe and to celebrate responsibly with family and friends. Happy Independence Day!”

GO ART!'s 40th annual Picnic in the Park is July 4 in Centennial Park

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Original Red Osier Landmark Restaurant in Stafford presents GO ART!'s 40th annual Picnic in the Park on Wednesday July 4, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Centennial Park. It is located at 151 State St. in the City of Batavia. 

It kicks off with a Kiddie Parade. At 10:30 a.m., kids can decorate their bikes, scooters, strollers in red, white and blue (decorations provided). At 11 a.m. the Kiddie Parade will travel down Ellicott Avenue led by Uncle Sam and Betsy Ross, and Rosie the Riveter.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.  -- Batavia Concert Band

12:45 to 1:15 p.m.  --  Batavia High A Cappella Group

1:30 to 3 p.m.  --  Bill McDonald’s Old Hippies

3:15 to 4:45 p.m.  --  Kelly’s Old Timer’s

12:30 to 12:45 p.m.  --  Buffalo Aerial Dance

1:15 to 1:30  --  Buffalo Aerial Dance

3 to 3:15 p.m.  --  Buffalo Aerial Dance

Throughout the day there will be children's activities.

  • M. Geoffrey Clough -- Cookie Song writing
  • Explore Art Tent: Making Recycled Instruments and Music

FOOD VENDORS

Original Red Osier Landmark Restaurant Food Truck

Abbott’s Ice Cream

Lonsberry Concessions Lemonade Stand

Kernel Cravin’ Kettle Corn

Lori’s Cookies

GO ART!  Oliver’s Candy Bars, New York Chips, Beverages, GO ART! Tee shirts

ARTISANS' ALLEY

More than 30 arts & crafts vendors

Demonstrations by Local Artisans

Chris Mc Gee: Mixed Media Painting

Lydia Zwierzynski: Caricatures

Chris Hummel: Cartooning

Rick Platt & Family: Chainsaw Artist, Mixed Media Painting, Wood Working, Fabric Arts

LOCAL NONPROFITS

Batavia 1st UMC
Batavia Healthcare Center
Genesee County CASA for Children
Genesee Orleans Ministry of Concern
Arc of Genesee Orleans
Oakfield Betterment Committee
Knights of Columbus
City of Batavia Democratic Committee
Acorns (County Park)
GLOW Region Solid Waste Management Committee
MHA of Genesee and Orleans Counties
Out Alliance
Friends of Batavia Peace Garden

 

GO ART! Picnic in the Park is Monday in Centennial Park, see 'Airigami' balloon art, hear Puerto Rican folkloric music

By Billie Owens

The 38th annual GO ART! Picnic in the Park will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Centennial Park, located at Richmond and Ellicott avenues in the city.

Arts, culture, heritage and community meld in celebration of Independence Day.

The Kiddie Parade kicks things off at 11:30 a.m. Children are encouraged to ride their bikes to the park by 11 a.m., decorate them with patriotic embellishments that will be provided, and open the festivities with a bicycle parade down Ellicott Avenue.

On the Main Stage, the lineup of featured performers is:

  • Noon – The Batavia Concert Band
  • 1:15 p.m. – The Buffalo Touch, Grammy-nominated polka band
  • 2:30 p.m. Kelly’s Old Timers, performing square dancing & standards since 1950
  • 4 p.m.: Conjunto Classico with Johnny Vega, Puerto Rican/Latin folkloric & dance music

New this year is “Airigami” – the fine art of molding air! Airigami is an incredible Rochester-based artist duo, Larry and Kelly, who, together with their skilled staff, create larger-than-life balloon sculptures that inspire awe in audiences worldwide.

They will set up in the park and create a one-of-a-kind balloon sculpture during the picnic. YOU will get to participate by helping blow up balloons and also sculpting them along with the artists.

Expect plenty of food and lots of fun. There will be artists, crafters and many vendors.

The main sponsor of this year’s event is the renowned Red Osier Landmark Restaurant in Stafford.

Artists, crafters, food vendors, nonprofits wanted for GO ART! Picnic in the Park on July 4

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council (GO ART!) is issuing a call for artists and crafters, food vendors, and nonprofit organizations to participate in the 36th Annual Picnic in the Park celebration from noon to 5 p.m. on Friday, July 4. The event takes place in Centennial Park, Richmond and Ellicott avenues in Batavia.

Application forms can be downloaded from the GO ART! Web site at www.GOart.org <http://www.GOart.org>, by e-mailing us at info@GOart.org, or by stopping by GO ART!, Seymour Place, 201 E. Main St., Batavia.

Artists and Crafters are invited to exhibit and sell their work – which must be made by the artist/crafter – in the Arts and Crafts Show. The nonrefundable entry fee per space is $35 for non-members and $30 for members if paid by June 1st. After June 1st, the fee is $40 for non-members and $35 for members. If you refer a friend, and they participate as an artist or crafter in this year's show, you will be entered in a drawing to win a refund on your booth fee! The nonrefundable entry fee per booth for Food Vendors is $125 if paid by June 1st. After June 1st, the fee is $150.

As is tradition, nonprofit organizations in Genesee and Orleans counties may participate free of charge. All vendors must supply their own tables, chairs, signs, canopy, and extensions cords. The deadline to submit applications is no later than June 29.

Picnic in the Park is a free annual daylong event featuring activities for families and children, folk art events, entertainment and refreshment stands. Picnic in the Park is funded, in part, by the New York State Council on the Arts Folk Arts Program.

For additional information, call the GO ART! office at 585.343.9313 or e-mail info@GOart.org

The contact person is Robin Upson.

Fourth of July Picnic in the Park will feature a Kiddie Parade, bounce house, live music and more

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council’s 35th annual family event “Picnic in the Park” will take place on the Fourth of July from Noon until 5 p.m. in Batavia's historic Centennial Park on Richmond Avenue.

As always, this year’s “Picnic in the Park” is a free, family friendly event that will once again include all-day live musical entertainment, an arts and crafts show, folk arts programs, food vendors, children’s activities, and much more!

New this year is a Kiddie Parade, which will be held preceding the event. Harkening back to earlier times, families with children ages 12 and under are invited to bring their bikes, scooters or strollers to the northwest corner of Centennial Park – between the Main Stage and Richmond Avenue -- at 11a.m. to decorate them for an old-time “kiddie parade." Decorations will be provided, compliments of Kmart, and the parade will take place at 11:30 starting at Ellicott and Park avenues.

As is tradition, Main Stage entertainment commences at Noon with the Batavia Concert Band playing its traditional mix of Sousa-style marches and Big Band numbers. Founded in 1924, the Band has brought musical pleasure to the region every year except during World War II. The Concert Band itself consists of 40 to 50 brass, woodwind and percussion players ranging from advanced high school musicians to 50-year veterans. Many have professional performance experience; the rest are advanced amateurs.

All members of the concert band love to play. Their repertoire is wide-ranging in origin, style and period, and includes marches, Broadway show tunes, favorites from hit musicals and movies, pop, jazz and even rock numbers arranged for band. Join the band for weekly concerts during the summer on Wednesday evenings beginning at 7 in Centennial Park.

At 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 4,  “The Town Pants” take the stage with their own unique brand of rollicking Celtic roots music. With Genesee County native Mike Mastin on drums, this Vancouver, Canada-based band combines aspects of Irish traditional, folk rock and roots Americana, fusing their signature dual lead vocals to create their own unique brand of high energy "West Coast Celtic" that remains in the heart and head long after the music stops.

There are lots of Celtic folk rock bands out there, but rarely does a band have this combination of passion, energy, animation and spirit that makes for some of the most imaginative songwriting you’ll find in the genre.

Then at 2:30 p.m., Trio Los Arpegios takes the stage. They have been performing Latin American music for the past 24 years, specializing in the typical trio style of close vocal harmonies with guitar accompaniment. Led by Marcos Santiago, the members include Jesus Gracia Montes and Pedro Santiago, all on vocals and guitar. They will be joined for our Picnic performance by Latin percussionists Fermin Sanchez and Juan Collazo.

They perform traditional music from Puerto Rico, Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic and Central and South America. The Trio performs frequently in the Rochester and Monroe County area, and has traveled from Buffalo to Albany, from Watertown to Binghamton and even to New York City.

At 4, The BossTones round out the afternoon with a wide variety of music ranging from traditional fiddle tunes, Irish, bluegrass, and Southern Appalachian to jazz and swing. The BossTones are a fiddle music trio comprised of Jessica Boss Collins (fiddle), Darcy Collins (guitar), and Jack Metzger (bass).

Jessica was first exposed to fiddle music through her grandfather, Roland Huehn, a musician himself. When she was growing up Roland took her to a local fiddle club, The Fiddlers of the Genesee, where she met another musical mentor, Jack Metzger. Starting in the mid 1990s, Jessica, her sister Meghan and Jack formed a smaller ensemble, The BossTones, and began performing throughout New York State. Darcy Collins, the newest addition of the trio, was immersed in many musical activities starting at a young age, and has been playing the guitar for 18 years. Jack Metzger, a veteran musician, has performed with various bluegrass and other acoustic music bands throughout New York State. In addition to playing bass, Jack is also an accomplished guitar player.

STAGE II, the “family stage,” features two rotating acts this year -- at 12:30 and 2 p.m. The Traveling Dressup Theatre entertains with their family friendly dressup storytelling; and at 1:30 and 3 p.m. The Stringmen perform their delightful mix of folk and participatory music for kids of all ages.

Throughout the day in Centennial Park, other activities include horse-drawn wagon rides and petting zoo by Hartland Carriages, and the Wildlife Educators Coalition returns with its wide assortment of animals. Geoffrey Clough presents his popular interactive program of children’s songs called “Cookie Songwriting,” and don’t miss juggling by Picnic fave Brian Kozody and new this year, Owen Gould. The GLOW Area YMCA will have its bounce house and inflatable obstacle course on site, and recycling is generously provided by Genesee County ARC. Also new this year is My Cowboy Miniature Golf with a nine-hole course, putters, balls, scorecards and pencils.

In the Explore Art! Tent families are invited to decorate paper flower pots and create paper flowers to be delivered to area nursing homes and hospitals. Also, kids can try their hand at decorating white paper bags to be used in delivery of Meals on Wheels to senior citizens. All materials are provided. AmeriCorps volunteer Beth Ely will help kids and adults explore art! Free face painting will also be available at the Explore Art! Tent.

Along the Richmond Avenue side of Centennial Park, artists and crafters are again featured in an Arts & Crafts Show & Sale. An amazing variety of arts and crafts are represented, such as hand-beaded jewelry, photography, seasonal indoor/outdoor woodcrafts, homemade soap, hand-woven textiles, tie-dyed apparel, ceramics, and much more.

Additional attractions consist of booths by community nonprofit organizations, including Genesee County ARC information and recycling education, Genesee County Historians Association, Batavia Assembly of God dunk tank and sand art, Volunteers for Animals with dogs and cats for adoption, St. James Church garden tour tickets and plant raffle, Habitat for Humanity, GO ART!’s Picnic in the Park prize giveaway and many others.

The Picnic always offers up tantalizing food by a variety of vendors, such as Abbott’s cones, sundaes, milkshakes and root beer floats, Lonsberry fresh-squeezed lemonade and soft pretzels, Kernel Cravin’ Kettle Corn, and, of course, the Batavia Jaycees famous "dog and burger stand" in its traditional location.

The event is funded, in part, by the New York State Council on the Arts Folk Arts Program with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.

Picnic Sponsors include the County of Genesee and Rotary Club of Batavia.

Table Sponsors include: Batavia Area Jaycees; The Batavian; CY Farms/Batavia Turf; The Daily News & The Drummer Pennysaver; Stephen M. Hawley & Assoc., LLC.

Contributors include: Freed Maxick CPAs, P.C.; and WBTAi.com.

Flag Sponsors include: Bouchard Financial Services; Genesee ARC; Bob and Linda Knipe; McGinnis Excavation & Plumbing; SJF Construction, Inc.; and Tonawanda Valley FCU.

Friends include: DelPlato/Casey Law Office; Max & Jane Mason; Paula R. Schumann; Roger & JoAnn Triftshauser; and Wortzman Furtniture, Inc.

Additional support provided by City of Batavia DPW, Genesee County Chamber of Commerce and the Porter Family.

Please call GO ART! at 585-343-9313, or e-mail info@goart.org, or visit <http://www.goart.org> for more information.

Batavia Concert Band performs in Centennial Park at noon

By Billie Owens

The Batavia Concert Band will perform at noon on the Fourth of July in Centennial Park in the city. The conductor is Phil Briatico.

Its repertoire is wide-ranging in origin, period and style: marches, Big Band and swing numbers, popular songs from musicals and movies, classical adaptations, rock favorites arranged for band, fun songs for kids of all ages … and everything in between.

Event Date and Time
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GO ART! PICNIC IN THE PARK

By Kelly Kiebala
The Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council’s 32nd annual family event “Picnic in the Park” takes place this Fourth of July. The festivities run from Noon until 5:00pm on Sunday, July 4th, in historic Centennial Park on Richmond Avenue in Batavia. As is tradition, the “Picnic in the Park” is kicked off by the Batavia Concert Band performing on the Main Stage at Noon. This year’s “Picnic in the Park” includes all-day musical entertainment, arts and crafts show, folk arts programs, food vendors, children’s activities, and much more. Admission is free. Please call GO ART!
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