Genesee County Sheriff's Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello was on Route 262, heading to the barn fire on Terry Street in Byron when his unmarked SUV was struck by a van traveling on Byron Road. The impact pushed the unmarked vehicle into a utility pole.

No one was injured.

Sanfratello had his emergency lights flashing and siren blaring when he slowed at the intersection, but the van's continued through the intersection. The male driver of the van was evaluated at the scene and released. Three dogs that were traveling in the van with him were likewise uninjured.

A memorial at the utility pole that was struck -- to two Byron-Bergen School students killed in a crash at that intersection years ago -- was "obliterated."

UPDATE 3:50 p.m.: Reader Valerie Patrick informs us that the memorial was for two students -- Christopher and Victoria Claus.

A working barn fire is reported at 6866 Terry St. in Byron. It is almost on the ground and smoke can be seen from the Town of Batavia. There are several exposures and trees are said to be catching on fire.

Byron and South Byron fire departments are responding along with mutual aid from Bergen, Elba and the City's Fast Team. It has gone to a second alarm.

UPDATE 2:21 p.m.: All responding units to Terry Street are told by command "to back it down."

UPDATE 2:44 p.m.: The residents at the property where the barn is located were not home at the time. The mother of one of the residents said a young couple passing by rescued a cat that was inside the barn, which was a small two-story wooden structure.

Notre Dame High School sophomores Benjamin Streeter and Krysta Hansen, as well as junior Maddie Payton -- local leaders in exposing what they see as the manipulative and deceptive marketing tactics of the tobacco industry -- have just returned from the annual Reality Check Youth Summit at Cazenovia College in Central New York.

During leadership workshops and teambuilding exercises with 150 other youth from around the state they made plans for raising awareness in their own communities about the impact tobacco marketing has on youth.

“The average age of a new smoker in New York is just 13 years old, and no one wants to see a kid start smoking,” Maddie said.

“It seems like tobacco companies are trying to deceive kids with packaging that looks like candy and thousands of flavors that appeal to kids like strawberry and bubble gum,” Krysta said.“The more kids see tobacco the more likely they are to start smoking. And we’re here to say we’ve seen enough tobacco in our communities.”

“Tobacco companies put most of their marketing in stores where 75 percent of teens shop at least once a week,” Benjamin said. “We’re speaking out in our communities and all across the state to protect youth from tobacco marketing and the dangers of tobacco use.”

Youth Demonstrated How Bright Colors, Tobacco Displays Appeal to Kids

During the Youth Summit, Reality Check members demonstrated how they believe tobacco companies’ deceptive marketing draws kids to tobacco products, using large displays of what would normally be considered kid-friendly items including large cutouts of:

• A kids’ birthday cake with cigarettes for candles, and a banner reading “The average age of a new smoker is 13”;
• A crayon box with cigarettes instead of crayons that reflect startling statistics about tobacco marketing and youth smoking;
• A claw machine filled with packs of cigarettes instead of stuffed animals and toys;
• An ice cream truck promoting tobacco product sales rather than ice cream sales; and
• Open packs of cigarettes on the blades of a working 8’ tall x 5’ wide mini-golf windmill.

At each demonstration, Reality Check youth explained how the supposed kid-friendly exhibits grab the attention of passersby just as the tobacco industry is grabbing youth’s attention with tobacco marketing in stores.

Reality Check empowers youth to become leaders in their communities in exposing what they see as the manipulative and deceptive marketing tactics of the tobacco industry.

The organization’s members produce change in their communities through grassroots mobilization and education.

Reality Check in this area is affiliated with Tobacco-Free Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties (TF-GLOW).

#SeenEnoughTobacco is an online campaign with the goal of safeguarding children from the billions of dollars of hard-hitting tobacco promotions in places where children see them.

Parents, community leaders and others interested in protecting youth are encouraged to learn more at SeenEnoughTobacco.org.

A hay baler in a field at 7088 Dillon Road, Pavilion is reportedly on fire.

Pavilion fire along with Le Roy's brush truck requested to the scene.

FRIDAY, July 20th – “Community Day & Thrill Night”

• 9 a.m.          ECYSS—Showmanship Clinic (Old Draft Horse Barn)
• 10 a.m.        EXHIBIT HALLS AND BUILDINGS OPEN
• 10 a.m.        4-H Livestock Costume Contest (Show Ring)
• 12 p.m.        ECYSS—Fitting Clinic (Old Draft Horse Barn)
• 1-11 p.m.     MIDWAY OPEN (Amusement Area)
• 3:30 p.m.     4-H Cloverbud Show (Show Ring)
• 4 p.m.          ECYSS—Showmanship (Old Draft Horse Barn)
• 5:30 p.m.     4-H Tractor Driving Contest—Via Pre Registration (Kennedy Building)
• 6 p.m.          NIOGA Dairy Showmanship (Show Ring)
• 7-11 p.m.     Band Winner of Battle of the Bands (Entertainment Tent)
• 7 p.m.          COUNTY FAIR GRAND DEMOLITION DERBY (Grandstand)
• 8 p.m.          Cowgirl Couture—Barrel Racing (Horse Ring)
• 10 p.m.        EXHIBIT HALLS AND BUILDINGS CLOSE

*This schedule is tentative and is subject to change at any time.*

Congressional challenger Nate McMurray made a series of campaign stops in the NY-27 yesterday, including in Batavia at the Genesee County Fair, to call out Rep. Chris Collins for not calling out President Donald Trump over, what McMurray said, was Trump's false equivalency between the United States and authoritarian-ruled Russia.

Collins has stood by Trump following Trump's press conference with Vladimir Putin in Helsinki, which followed a private meeting between the two leaders, where Trump seemingly dismissed U.S. intelligence reports of Russian interference in the 2016 election.

"I’m disappointed our congressman didn’t come out boldly — I don’t care, if Donald Trump were a Democrat, I don’t care who he is — when someone gets up on a stage and compares America to an authoritarian state you have to stand up and say that is wrong," McMurray said. "As a kid growing up in this country and believing in the future of our country, I am saying that is wrong."

In the midst of bipartisan criticism of Trump's remarks, Collins issued the following statement:

“I share President Trump’s continued frustration as the left continues to try to nullify the 2016 Presidential election with claims of Russian interference. The fact is, any Russian meddling did not make a difference in the election and there was no campaign collusion. It’s time the Mueller investigation comes to a conclusion. I also urge the President to work with Congress to ensure any future Russian attempts to influence our elections are stopped at our border. Unfortunately, this is something the Obama administration failed to do."

McMurray said in the 48 hours after the press conference, his campaign was re-energized by new supporters and new volunteers signing up.

"Republicans, Democrats, and independents alike are getting involved in our campaign and they’re getting involved because they’re worried about the state of our country," McMurray said.

About 24 hours after the press conference, Trump said he misspoke in Helsinki.

"I thought that I made myself very clear, but having just reviewed the transcript ... I realized that there is a need for some clarification," Trump said. "The sentence should have been ... 'I don't see any reason why it wouldn't be Russia.' "

He said he meant to say "wouldn't" instead of "would."

McMurray thinks Collins has a job to do and he's not doing it: Being a check on executive power.

"A big part of being a congressman is you must be a check on the executive branch, even if you love Donald Trump," McMurray said. "We do not live in an authoritarian state like Putin has. We live in a country where people who go to Congress, people who fight for the people of Western New York, need to be a check on the executive branch so we don’t have an expansion of unwarranted power."

The Batavian contacted the Collins campaign and requested a response. Spokesman Bryan Piligra sent over the following quote:

“Residents of Genesee County know Chris puts their interests first in Washington, fighting for our farms, veterans, and small businesses. They also know he proudly supports President Trump and he won’t back down from that support because radical progressives can’t get over the 2016 election."

Press release:

The Genesee County STOP-DWI and Youth Bureau are having their Annual Night at the Ballpark on Wednesday, July 25^th at Dwyer Stadium.

The first 250 youth under 16 can get in free if they contact the Youth Bureau at 344-3960 to reserve tickets for the event.

Youth can come to the Youth Bureau to pick the tickets up or we will take their information and they can pick them up at the box office.

There will also be free Muckbucks to the first 60 youth, and more than 500 prizes and giveaways on hand. There will also be two bikes from Adam Miller Toy and Bicycle given away, one for a boy and one for a girl.

There will be educational booths on hand, including one with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office with child ID kits. A juggler will be on hand as well for the kids’ entertainment.

Genesee County’s #1 crime fighting K-9 will be there to assist with the first pitch!

All of this is made possible from our wonderful sponsors and contributors: GCASA, Genesee County Sheriff’s Association, Kiwanis Club of Batavia, United States Gypsum Co., Batavia Lions Club, City of Batavia Police Benevolent Association, The Original Red Osier Landmark Restaurant, Western New York Association of Chiefs of Police, Gerace Realty, Polish Falcons, Tops Friendly Markets, Adam Miller Toy and Bicycle, and Alex’s Place.

Gates open at 6 p.m. and the game starts at 7:05.

Press release:

Today, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced that a bill passed earlier this year aimed at helping local breweries, wineries and distilleries attain tax-exempt status when doing various sampling events in New York State (A.11203) will be amended to become congruent with current law.

Under the current version of the bill, a portion of the legislation restricts anyone between the ages of 18 and 21 from serving alcohol, which is contrary to current state law. Hawley announced the legislature has agreed to pass a chapter amendment resolving this issue before the bill is signed into law.

“It is extremely important to our producers, wineries, distilleries and breweries, who host many tasting and sampling events, that employees under the legal drinking age are still allowed to work at these events,” Hawley said. “Furthermore, this legislation provides a great boost to local businesses and tax credits will be available to New York producers who offer tastings on their own premises.

"I hope these sales tax exemptions will help boost economic growth in our state and encourage new businesses to open here as well. The bill will not be sent to the governor until the end of the year, but I’m pleased by its widespread support. I’d like to thank the sponsors of this legislation for dedication to helping and promoting our state’s businesses.”

After being paralyzed in a motor-vehicle accident at the age of 21, Ricky Palermo, 58, could be bitter.

Yet, he considers himself blessed.

One reason is the support team of family and friends who not only help him day to day, but the dedicated committee members who have volunteered to make the annual Ricky Palermo Spinal Injury Golf Tournament a success.

The tournament scheduled Aug. 4 will be the 22nd, and Palermo hopes it won’t be the last.

He fears as people age and lives get harder, the people who have helped him all these years won’t be able to keep the pace. He cites as an example losing his brother-in-law Joe last year.

The thought of his benefit tournament dying out is almost unbearable. In its 21 years, the tournament has raised more than $1.2 million for spinal injury research.

Annually, money from the golf tournament is donated to four causes – the Emergency Room at United Memorial Medical Center, where Palermo was treated; Strong Memorial Hospital’s Spinal Unit; the Batavia YMCA, where Palermo regularly exercises on a Functional Electrical Stimulation bike; and the Miami Project in Miami, where doctors and research scientists are working to find a cure for spinal injuries.

Palermo was one of the first six patients to take part in the Miami Project after it was established in 1985, just four years after his accident.

A key figure in founding the Miami Project was NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Nick Buoniconti, whose son Marc had been injured playing football. The Buoniconti family vowed that progress in spinal injury research would not be slowed because of lack of funds. To date, their foundation has raised one-half billion dollars.

One of their fundraisers is the Great Sports Legends’ Dinner in New York City, to which Palermo is sent tickets every year.

“I am so blessed that they think of me,” Palermo said.

Another reason the Miami Project is so special to Palermo is because his niece, Batavia native Dr. Annie Palermo, has just been hired there. One of the studies he will be involved in will be led by Annie.

The first study he participated in proved to doctors that someone with a spinal cord injury could stay in shape with proper exercise. Several times a week, Palermo goes to the YMCA, where he rides the Functional Electrical Stimulation bike, which his golf tournament helped fund.

Palermo hopes the golf tournament will continue to be a success. In the past, golfers have come from eight different states. Many plan their vacations around the event, he said.

The first year they set a goal of $5,000, but actually raised $11,500.

“That’s when we knew we had to try again,” Palermo said.

Last year’s tournament raised $74,000. They have had as many as 224 golfers participate in one year.

“We’ve met so many caring, wonderful people,” Palermo said. “I consider myself lucky.”

Terry Hills, where the tournament takes place, has been so good to them, Palermo said. While the scheduled tee-off isn’t until 11 a.m., some start at daybreak to get everyone in.

Genesee Community College is also a big supporter, hosting the dinner, auction and show in the evening.

Cost for lunch, golf, and dinner is $120 per person. Just hors d'oeuvres, dinner and the show is $50.

The show will include a video and a presentation by two doctors from the Miami Project. The video will feature footage shot of Palermo when he was in Miami.

There will also be a live and silent auction and raffles.

Donations of cash, prize items, and auction items are welcome.

To register to golf or for information on making a donation, contact Palermo at (585) 739-8522.

Photo (by Howard Owens): Ricky Palermo with his cousin John Curtiss.

No young man forgets his first new car, especially when it is the car of his dreams.

And few get the chance to own that car again more than 50 years later.

The first time Peter Lockner saw the “Dodge Girl” advertise a 1966 red Dodge Charger, he knew he had to have one.

That was in December 1966, the first year Dodge made the Charger. Lockner had a young wife and had just quit his job at Kodak to get his master’s degree at Cornell University.

“We had several junk cars, but I couldn’t leave Marilyn with a junker while I was at college,” said Lockner, a flight instructor at Genesee County Airport. “I had seen the Dodge Girl on TV and I went to McAvoy Dodge in Rochester and said I wanted a red Charger. They had only one, but it had an anemic 361-cubic-inch V8 engine with a two-barrel carburetor.”

Lockner really wanted a Hemi but was told that would take two months to get.

“So I bought the ‘anemic’ Charger,” Lockner said.

The original bill of sale lists the base price as $3,122.00. With optional add-ons for four-speed transmission, emergency flashers, padded sun visors, power steering, AM radio, white sidewall tires and $51 for shipping, the final price was $3,618.88.

Lockner’s wife drove the car that winter and he got his master’s and returned to Kodak, where he was sent to California for two years. He drove the Charger to California and back to their home in Byron.

Lockner had put a 440 police interceptor engine in the Charger.

“I used to race a Corvette on Ford Road and the third time I beat him, I blew the engine,” Lockner said. “Then I put a Chrysler Imperial engine in it which I had rebuilt with a racing cam and Holley 750 CFN carburetor. It idled real nice and it ran nice.”

Lockner said Marilyn once got ticketed for speeding in Elba. Two state troopers had to chase her to Saile Drive before they could stop her. She told them the car wouldn’t slow down.

Lockner said he once pegged it at 160 mph on the I-490.

In 1985, Lockner’s cousin’s son was graduating from high school and she wanted to give him a car. The Charger had almost 140,000 miles on it, and Lockner was tired of fixing it and treating it with tender, loving care. So he sold it for $1,500.

The car was last driven in 1987 and the registration sticker was still on the windshield when Lockner discovered just over a year ago his cousin still had the car.

“It has been stored in Ohio since then,” Lockner said. “I had sold it with the understanding I had first dibs to buy it back if she ever wanted to sell it.”

In 2017, Lockner paid $6,000 to buy the Charger back and towed it to Batavia, where he and his son Steven have worked nearly a year to get it running again.

That entailed all new brakes and completely cleaning and rebuilding the carburetor. When they were ready to start it, Lockner hooked up a drill to the oil pump and moved the oil around.

“Then she started right up,” he said.

Genesee County DMV helped Lockner reregister the car. He got insurance and now he’s driving it.

Of course, he only gets about 10 miles to the gallon, but doesn’t bother Lockner at all.

It’s still the car of his dreams.

Below: Pete Lockner, of Batavia, shows off the 1966 Dodge Charger he purchased new. He recently located the car in Ohio and purchased it back. He has the original invoice from McAvoy Dodge in Rochester, showing a final price of $3,618.88 with options and shipping. Photos by Virginia Kropf.

Wednesday evening the 4-H Swine Club held its annual competition at the Genesee County Fair, with members judged on their showmanship and the quality of their swine.

These pictures are from the showmanship contest, where members are judged on their ability to herd their hogs.

The awards went to: 

Senior Swine Showmanship

• 1st place -- Mellisa Keller
• 2nd place -- Ben Kron
• 3rd place -- Becky Kron

Junior Swine Showmanship

• 1st place -- Cody Carlson
• 2nd place -- Hudson Weber

Novice Swine Showmanship

• 1st place -- Brendan Pimm
• 2nd place -- Chase Zuber

Melissa Keller won the Master Showman award.

Tonight is the annual 4-H meat auction. This evening, the Original Red Osier Landmark Restaurant's food trailer will be offering a pulled-pork dinner for $12, with 20 percent of all sales going to the 4-H Swine Club's scholarship award. It is given to a member who has shown sportsmanship and leadership during fair week.

Click here for a schedule of fair events.

Melissa Keller and Ben Kron competing for master showman by demonstrating for a judge their ability to herd their swine though a figure eight around a pair of chairs.

Press release:

Elba Central School Superintendent Keith Palmer has announced he will retire this fall. The Elba Board of Education voted to accept Palmer’s letter of retirement during their annual reorganizational meeting earlier this month.

Palmer has served as Elba’s Superintendent since his appointment in July of 2015 following 12 years as Pembroke’s High School Principal. Having spent the last 28 years as a public school administrator, Palmer is quick to point out that he has been attending school every year for the past 50 years.

"I have been very fortunate to be able to work with so many good people and talented educators over my entire career," Palmer said. "I sincerely believe there is no higher calling than that of a teacher and I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve had in working with and on behalf of our young people."

During Palmer’s time at Elba, the District has seen growth in student academic achievement as well as increased stability with school finances.

"Although Mr. Palmer has been at Elba a short time his influence will be felt for years to come," said Board President Mike Augello. "With his guidance our district has overcome some challenges and we have most importantly improved our students educational experience and academic success. Very quickly Mr. Palmer became part of the Elba community and he has put us on a path to achieve our goals including being a top district in our area.

"It has been a pleasure getting to know and work with Keith. The Board of Education along with the entire community wishes him and his wife the best in their retirement. I don’t think we can replace Mr. Palmer but we are looking forward to hiring our next superintendent and are excited for the next chapter here at Elba."

Before Palmer’s time at Elba and Pembroke, he worked 12 years as assistant principal at Kendall High School and four years as a Math teacher at North Warren Central School in the Adirondacks. 

"I’ve always been drawn to small schools," Palmer said. "We all are required to wear many hats which create possibilities for learning and for developing relationships outside the classroom or office. Relationships and support are strong at Elba and this community is a constant reminder as to the importance of family."

Palmer and his wife intend to sell their home in Albion and move closer to family in Washington, D.C., before "having to bring out the snow blower one more time."

Augello said the District is working with Genesee Valley Educational Partnership Superintendent Kevin McDonald in the search for Palmer’s replacement.

Submitted photos and press release:

Northgate Free Methodist Church is currently holding its Summer Base Camp for children ages 6-12 years old.

Next Generation Pastor Daniel Calkins has created an engaging curriculum to help build character development as well as community awareness among the enrolled children.

The morning curriculum is a sports-themed program, coached and run by UW Sports Ministries. This year's encompassing theme is “Breaking Free.” The children have been able to participate in select sports and are being taught lessons of responsibility, truth, strong relationships, faith and eternity.

Today, as part of their community involvement, the kids were able to visit Batavia’s T-Shirts, Etc. The children were educated on the process of screen-printing, and were able to get an exclusive sneak peek into the world of T-shirt printing.

Pastor Daniel is running Base Camp this week through Friday. Throughout the year, he also conducts both a Middle School Base program, which runs each Wednesday evening from 6-8, and a High School Base group, which meets Sunday evenings from 6:30-8.

For more information regarding our youth programs, please contact the office at (585) 343-4011, or email Pastor Daniel at Daniel@northgatefmc.com

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today introduced legislation that prevents states from diverting fees collected from consumers on their phone bills, which are meant to be used to improve 9-1-1 emergency communications systems.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has found that New York diverts at least 41 percent of 9-1-1 fees that are collected for other non-public safety-related purposes. Congresswoman Anna Eshoo (CA-18) and Congressman Leonard Lance (NJ-07), vice chair of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee, co-authored the bill and have also seen 9-1-1 fee diversion in their home states.

“It is completely unacceptable that we have seen states diverting fees meant to make important and necessary improvements to emergency response systems,” Collins said. “Diverting these important fees puts lives in danger, especially in rural areas. I thank Congresswoman Eshoo and Congressman Lance for their support of this legislation and their commitment to making sure all communities across the nation can achieve the highest level of safety.”  

“Our 9-1-1 call centers are the first point of contact for Americans in emergency situations, but many of these call centers rely on technology that’s been in place since the time of the first 9-1-1 call 50 years ago,” Eshoo said.“9-1-1 fees collected by states should only be used to upgrade our 9-1-1 infrastructure, not diverted to the general coffers of state governments.”

“My constituents need to know that in an emergency the 9-1-1 call is going to go through,” Lance said. “Lawmakers in Trenton raided the fund set aside to improve the 9-1-1 system and left the account penniless – leaving public safety threatened and taxpayers on the hook. Members of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee are seeking to end this practice.

"The 911 Fee Integrity Act will empower the Federal Communications Commission to crack down on state governments that divert these funds and shortchange much-needed upgrades to bring the critical 9-1-1 system into the 21st century. And instead of further taxing New Jerseyans, Trenton should first stop diverting the existing fees from their intended use.”   

Collins’ bill directs the FCC, in consultation with public safety organizations, and state, local and tribal governments, to determine the appropriate use of funds collected from consumers. Currently, states are able to set their own definition of what is a covered cost for 9-1-1 fees, which has allowed them to divert fees.

In April, Collins toured the Niagara County 9-1-1 call center with FCC Commissioner Mike O’Rielly where they called on the State of New York to stop diverting fees. Governor Cuomo has not stopped diverting fees, leading Collins to introduce the 911 Fee Integrity Act.

Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Press release:

On Monday, July 16, officers from the City of Batavia Police Department responded to the area of 11 Lehigh Ave. for a 9-1-1 hang-up call plotting to the general area. Upon arrival, officers found no signs of distress and checked the building located at 11 Lehigh Ave. for any signs of a disturbance.

Officers located an open door to the building and checked the interior to ensure that there were no problems inside the building itself or anyone in need of assistance. During the search of the interior of the building officers located a large make-shift aquarium that contained a 4-foot-long alligator.

Officers immediately notified the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation and EnCon Officer Wilson arrived on scene a short time later. The alligator was captured and turned over to EnCon Officer Wilson. It was determined that the 9-1-1 hang up call was not related to the found alligator.

Residents are reminded that the possession or sale of alligators and other dangerous animals is a violation of the New York State Environmental Conservation Law. Not only is it illegal to possess such an animal, but they are dangerous and should not be harbored by anyone without specific training and the appropriate licensing or permits.

If anyone has any information regarding this animal or knows of anyone harboring such a dangerous animal, they should contact the DEC Region 8 office at (585) 226-2466.

This investigation was turned over the DEC, any requests for further information should be directed to DEC Region 8 press contact Regina Willis at (585) 226-5324 or pressoffice@dec.ny.gov. 

Previously: Four-foot alligator found in vacant building on Lehigh Avenue

Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Above, Marty the art 'bot with co-leader Quinton Tarbell and ACES Club members.

Submitted photos.

By Renee Chapell, 4-H ACES Club member

Can robots make art? They can indeed. With individually controllable motors and a bunch of sensors, Marty the art 'bot can draw, walk, turn, dance, kick a ball, and react to his environment as programmed.

The 4H ACES Club focused on customizing Marty to change how he draws. Marty can be controlled remotely over Wi-Fi, but can also be programed in a variety of programming languages.

The team learned that with Marty, coding is as simple as clicking and dragging blocks. Marty makes learning about programming, electronics and mechanical engineering a fun, challenging and engaging process. Sure, there are a ton of other robots made for kids, but Marty is astonishingly special!

Come learn about building robots and meet Marty, the creative art robot debuting at 4H Genesee County Fair. Stop by and see him, Marty would love to meet you!

Marty will doing a live demo on Saturday in the Kennedy Building, following the talent show. We hope to see you at the fair!

Below: Marty the Art 'bot.

Bottom photo: Marty the art 'bot and ACES Club Team – Luke Kozak, Shane Coast, Alexandria Tarbell with Marty, Gabrielle Crandall and Colton Tarbell.

Press release:

The Genesee County and Batavia Youth Bureaus are planning the annual Safe Summer Children’s Carnival open to the public to take place on Thursday, July 26, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Falleti Ice Arena, 22 Evans St. in Batavia.

One dollar buys a ticket to play 10 games, and children can win “funny money” to redeem for prizes. Entertainment by “Bubblemania” is scheduled from 10-10:45 a.m. and the games will run from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. with a 30-minute lunch break. Folks from the community should plan to bring a bagged lunch or plan to leave for lunch.

There will also be several community agency booths. There will be a grand prize, which consists of two Fantasy Island Amusement and Water Park Admission Tickets and a one-year membership to the YMCA that can be won by visiting the booths.

For more information on the carnival please contact Chelsea at the Genesee County Youth Bureau at 344-3960.

Photo of Batavia Downs state-of-the-art control room courtesy of Batavia Downs.

By Tim Bojarski for Batavia Downs

As the doors swing open for the start of the 72^nd season of live harness racing at Batavia Downs on Monday (July 23), patrons, horsemen and horsewomen will see a multitude of changes made by the track to improve the racing product and enhance the wagering value.

The 2018 racing session features 70 dates, including seven matinees that all start at 1:15 p.m. Monday and Wednesday evening post times are 5 p.m. with Friday and Saturday night races beginning at 6 o'clock. There are four twilight Saturday programs during the season on Sept. 8, Oct. 6, Nov.17 and Dec 15 with a 4:45 p.m. post.

Those racing at the Downs this year will be greeted by $600,000 worth of paddock improvements including a new barn that will house two additional races. It was constructed adjacent to the existing four-race paddock and across from the 16-stall wash barn and finished off with fresh blacktop. The new layout of the complex will allow for six races to be in the paddock at one time and provide uncluttered ease of bathing for horses that are done racing.

Fans viewing the races on the monitors in the stands or via simulcast will enjoy an enhanced video product thanks to a brand new audio/visual studio that will broadcast everything in full digital video. The state-of-the-art control room will make the Batavia Downs signal and programming the best the track has ever offered and make the races easier and more enjoyable to watch.

Another change that will be noticeable from both sides of the fence is the passing lane has been removed from the home stretch of the track. Batavia Downs has had a passing lane since 1989 and during that time the track has seen the bias toward inside posts go up dramatically. So in an attempt to create more early movement making outside posts more bettable and decrease the amount of winning favorites, this change was implemented.

“This year we’ve made some changes that we feel will help the horsemen and bettors alike,” said Todd Haight, director/general manager of Live Racing at Batavia Downs. “The new paddock will make the transition from race to race much easier for our participants and removing the passing lane should add some value for our gamblers. We look forward to getting underway and expect and exciting season of racing."

The schedule looks to provide some of the best competition the track has seen and the New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) will be the centerpiece of it. Eight divisions of state-breds will visit the Downs and there will be $800,000 (est.) up for grabs for the participating horses.

Then on Friday Sept. 21, all eight NYSS final consolation races will be held at the Downs with an additional $320,000 to be doled out.

That same night the Downs two signature races will be held. The $15,000 Brian Schroeder Memorial trot and $15,000 Duke Dranichek Memorial pace will feature some of the best Open talent around, including the richest pacer of all time.

Trainer Ron Burke has marked his calendar and said the $7.5 million-dollar man/100-win wonder, Foiled Again is scheduled to compete in the Dranichek pace. Foiled Again has won three $50,000 Kane Memorials in Batavia along with two Saturday night Opens. He likes the track and he’s coming back for a farewell appearance before his mandatory retirement at the end of the year.

"September 9th is the 30^th anniversary of Batavia Downs hosting the Breeders Crown and the card we have on tap for September 21 this year rivals that historic night for purses and competition," Haight said, "and to have Foiled Again here on top of it makes it a real draw for Western New York.” 

The very next night (Saturday Sept.22) the very popular racing under saddle or "RUS" will return for the third year with horses and riders from New York RUS. They will attempt to break the track record that was set in 2016 when they made their first appearance at the track.

The driving colony will be filled with familiar faces but with last year’s dash title winner Larry Stalbaum not returning, a new champion will be crowned in December.

Drew Monti, who is Western New York’s leading dash driver this year, will be in the mix along with Shawn Gray, Kevin Cummings, Ray Fisher Jr., Jim Morrill Jr., Billy Davis Jr. and John Cummings Jr. to name a few.

On the conditioning side, last year’s leading trainer Kim Asher will be back but with a reduced stable. That will open the door for the red hot James Clouser Jr. and three-time best Batavia conditioner JD Perrin to vie for top honors.

Also competing at the Downs this meet will be 18-year-old Riley Asher-Stalbaum who began her training career earlier this year. She has made an instant impact among area trainers with a sparkling Universal Training Rating (UTR) of .428.

Once again the fans will enjoy a plethora of promotions this year and as always, there will be something for everyone on tap.

As has been the norm for many years, racing programs will be free on opening night and the first Saturday of the meet to welcome back our racing fans and each program contains a valuable free play coupon redeemable on the gaming floor.

Sunday July 29 and every Sunday in August is Dollar Days at the Downs. Fans can enjoy dollar drafts, sodas and hot dogs on the apron.

On Saturday Aug. 4, 10 lucky fans will win a stay at the beautiful new Batavia Downs Hotel which is connected to the race track and gaming floor.

One lucky fan will win a $3,000 diamond pendant on Saturday Aug. 11 during a jewelry night giveaway sponsored by TAG Jewelers.

On Saturday Aug.25, 10 lucky patrons will win $100 gift certificates to the Spa at Artemis in Downtown Batavia.

Family Fun Days and the Wiener Dog Races will return on Sunday Aug. 26. The day includes free activities of all kinds for the kids. Then after the live racing is finished, the wiener dogs will hit the track for the main event. Genesee Feeds of Batavia is the official sponsor of this event.

The traditional Driver’s Bike Race will return for the 40^th year on Labor Day (Sept. 3). Eight of the Down’s favorite drivers will be pedaling bicycles from the top of the turn to the wire. Eight fans who select the winning driver will win the bikes used in the race. Labor Day also features the annual chicken barbecue.

For information on racing or promotions log onto www.bataviadownsgaming.com .

Bottom photo, courtesy of Batavia Downs: New paddocks are part of the improvements made at Batavia Downs this year.

A house fire, with flames shooting from an electrical panel, is reported in East Pembroke at 1911 Cleveland Road. East Pembroke Fire Department is responding along with mutual aid from Corfu. Town of Batavia Fire Department is asked to stand by in their quarters.

UPDATE 11:22 a.m.: A first responder on scene says smoke is showing. Command calls for Oakfield Fire Police to shut down Cleveland at Indian Falls Road. Indian Falls Fire Police are to shut down Main Road at Cleveland. Command says the goal is to get a quick knockdown; flames are not showing but there's a lot of smoke.

UPDATE 11:45 a.m.: Alexander is asked to stand by in their quarters to cover East Pembroke's fire district.

UPDATE 12:05 p.m.: Mercy BLS #1 is going to the scene for rehab of firefighters. 

Tracy A. Battaglia, 47, of Ellicott Avenue, Batavia, is charged with owning an unlicensed dog and dog running at large. Battaglia was charged after her dog ran loose and bit another dog and two people attempting to intervene (initial report).

Thomas E. Brenkus, 50, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with forcible touching and first-degree sex abuse. Brenkus is accused of touching a female acquaintance by force for the purpose of sexual gratification. He was jailed without bail.

Cameron David Majewski, 19, of South Swan Street, Batavia, is charged with harassment. Majewski allegedly punched another person during a disturbance on South Swan Street at 1:30 p.m. March 25. He was jailed on $1,000 bail.

Kerry Ann Dudek, 43, of Fisher Road, Oakfield, is charged with petit larceny. Dudek is accused of stealing $54.63 worth of merchandise from Tops Friendly Market.

Darien L. Rhodes, 25, of Dellinger Avenue, Batavia, is charged with criminal obstruction of breathing, criminal possession of a controlled substance, unlawful imprisonment, menacing, 2nd, criminal possession of a weapon. Rhodes was charged following an incident reported at 1:09 a.m. July 12 at a location on Dellinger Avenue.

Deborah S. Rodriguez, 50, of Farnsworth Avenue, Oakfield, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. Rodriguez was charged following an investigation into a disturbance on Pearl Street, Batavia, at 3 a.m. July 5, by Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk.

Thomas A. Griffin II, 31, is charged with South Swan Street, Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and harassment, 2nd. Griffin is accused of trying to take a child out of the arms of another person and striking the person in the face in an incident reported at 4 p.m., Monday. Griffin was jailed on $2,500 bail.

Shawn Brent Springsteen, 53, of Fitchett Street, Poughkeepsie, is charged with criminal contempt, 1st. Springsteen was allegedly found in the presence of a person protected by a complete stay away order at 4:48 p.m. Wednesday at a truck stop on Route 77, Pembroke.

Andrea Marie Gray, 40, of Lake Street, Le Roy, is charged criminal mischief, 4th. Gray is accused of damaging property at 5130 E. Main St., Batavia, at 2:15 p.m. July 10.

Maurice Devon Doleman Sr., 49, of Killian Road, Pembroke, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, illegal signal, driver's view obstructed. Doleman was stopped at 11:07 p.m. Tuesday on Killian Road, Pembroke, by Deputy Eric Meyer.

Jacob Wyatt Klotzbach, 26, of Walnut Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Klotzbach is accused of stealing $22.67 in merchandise from Tops Friendly Market in Batavia.

Ryan D. Bell, 19, of Henrietta, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate. Bell was stopped at 9:32 p.m. Wednesday on Route 77 in Darien by State Police. Also charged with unlawful possession of marijuana is Jason A. Batterson, 33, of Walworth.

Jennifer A. Roskey, 37, of Oakfield, is charged with menacing, 2nd, acting in a manner injurious to a child, and criminal possession of a weapon, 3rd. Roskey was charged following an incident reported at 8:23 p.m. Wednesday, at 39 S. Main St., Oakfield, by State Police. Roskey was ordered held on bail. No further information released.

Domonique T. Smith, 26, of Rochester, is charged with DWI, Felony DWI, endangering the welfare of a child, and driving while impaired by drugs. Smith was stopped at 2:03 p.m. June 27 on South Lake Road, Bergen, by State Police.

Trisha R. Santora, 35, of Batavia, is charged with conspiracy, 5th, grand larceny, 4th, and falsifying business records. Santora is accused of a theft at Home Depot reported at 1:37 p.m. Monday. Santora was arrested by State Police. No further details released.