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Sponsored Post: Open House Saturday: 147 Pearl Street, Batavia

By Lisa Ace


147 PEARL STREET, BATAVIA OPEN HOUSE - SATURDAY 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Amazing house for the money so many upgrades & improvements for the money you won’t find more for less-see for yourself -- easy to see at a moment's notice!

Solid 3 bedroom, bath and a half home. Completely remodeled within the last 5 years, beautifully done and nothing for you to do but enjoy! Full tear off roof 4 yrs ago.

Beautiful cherry cabinetry with granite countertops and all stainless appliances to stay plus washer/dryer! Extra large family/dining area perfect for entertaining with pretty gas fireplace. Super convenient upstairs laundry and 3 large bedrooms. All new carpeting thru out!

Outside features extra wide drive and double lot with great deck-inexpensive utilities and NO flood insurance!

SO MUCH BANG FOR THE BUCK AND EASY TO SEE AT MOMENT NOTICE! BE IN BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! Call Lynn Bezon today – 344-HOME to see this HOT BUY or click here to view the full listing.

Check out a few more of Reliant Real Estate's listings here: 
8009 Bank Street Road, Batavia – $249,900 – Click here to view this listing.
164 Summit Street, Batavia – $117,900 – Click here to view this listing.
6800 Junction Road, Pavilion – $129,900 – Click here to view this listing.

Elba students walked to school on Wednesday

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and press release:

Elba – The Wellness Committee at Elba Central School sponsored their fourth Annual Walk to School Day this week.

On Oct. 10th, Elba joined schools from around the United States to celebrate Walk to School Day.

Approximately 75 students from Elba Central School walked to school Wednesday along with parents, teachers and community members. They gathered at 7 a.m. at the Town of Elba Highway Department, located at 7 Maple Ave., Elba, and walking started at 7:15.

Upon arrival to the school cafeteria there were special activities associated with the walk. NYS ENCON officer Fay Fuerch and her K9 Handley were the event's special guests. A healthy light snack was served that was donated by Harrington’s Produce, Yancey Fancy New York artisan cheesemaker, and Aldi.

Every student participant was entered into a drawing to win either an Art box, Walkie Talkies or a Bean Bag Toss. Thank you to the above sponsors and the Elba Fire Department!

In the United States, Walk to School Day is expected to include more than 5,000 events across all 50 states. Walk to School Day raises awareness of the need to create safer routes for walking and bicycling. It emphasizes the importance of issues such as increasing physical activity among children, pedestrian safety, traffic congestion and concern for the environment.

This event builds connections between families, schools, and the community.

The Wellness Committee at Elba Central School organizes occasions such as this to promote health and wellness among our staff, students and community through healthy events.

For additional information, please visit these websites:

Walk to School Day in the USA                                    www.walkbiketoschool.org                        

National Center for Safe Routes to School                        www.saferoutesinfo.org

Inaugural 2018 Remembrance & Hope event is Sunday at Genesee County Park & Forest

By Billie Owens

Charles Raymond Sutherland looks seaward in September 2017 from a jetty on Pierpont Beach, Ca. A friend took the picture five months before his death due to an accidental drug overdose. He was the youngest son of Billie Owens.

 

Bright Futures Genesee is holding its inaugural Remembrance & Hope event from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 14, at Genesee County Park & Forest.

You are invited to this special time to remember loved ones we have lost as well as to share hope for those in recovery.

"There's so much meaness out there, and shame," said Bright Futures Director Sue Gagne. "We wanted to do something where people can share their pain and feel supported. We want to give people hope."

Individuals, friends, family members and allies of recovery are welcome.

Walk through the park, reflect, and enjoy live music.

Feel free to bring a picture of your friend or loved one to share with others and remember.

For your comfort, you are welcome to bring a lawn chair.

The 2018 Remembrance & Hope event will be based at Pavilion B on Raymond Road. The county park is located at 11095 Bethany Center Road in East Bethany.

For more information, please contact via email:   info@brightfuturesgenesee.org

About Bright Futures Genesee

Bright Futures Genesee is a 501(c)3 nonprofit established in July 2015. It is a grassroots organization whose mission is to serve individuals and families in our community through programs and support to ensure an immediate and lasting change. Its tagline, so to speak, is "Rebuilding, Restoring & Renewing." Sue Gagne was instrumental in starting it; she currently serves as its unpaid director. She was formerly director of the Mental Health Association of Genesee and Orleans Counties.

Editor's Note: Of the photo above, posted Sept. 26, 2017 on his Facebook page, "Chuck" said: "I was just looking at a pod of dolphins and it looks like I was thinking about some great question." He died Feb. 22, two weeks after turning 35, leaving his 9-year-son, Charlie Jay Sutherland, fatherless.

The song below, John Prine's "Summer's End," was first announced on its creator's Facebook page on Feb. 8, 2018 -- the day Chuck turned 35. It was performed at Chuck's funeral service overlooking the coastal City of San Buenaventura one month later, on March 8.

Veterans enjoyed a dinner dance at the VA Center on Thursday

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and information:

Veterans, their friends and family members enjoyed a dinner dance at the Veterans Community Living Center on Richmond Avenue in Batavia on Thursday afternoon.

It was hosted by the VA Western New York Healthcare System and held in the Recreation Hall of Building 4. The event was organized by Recreation Therapy, Nursing, other VA staff and the community.

Vets were treated to stuffed meatloaf dinner prepared by D&R Depot while enjoying music by Dr. Marc Maller, VA physician, and Kelly’s Old Timers Band. The Alexander Girls High School Soccer Team assisted staff with this special event, which included crowning a King and Queen.

City School District seeks Budget Ambassadors for 2019-20 budget

By Billie Owens

The Batavia City School District Board of Education and administration invite you to serve as a Budget Ambassador to assist with the 2019-20 Budget process.

Residents of the District are invited to become Budget Ambassadors and make recommendations regarding the school budget. No experience necessary.

If interested in serving, please notify the District in writing by Thursday, Jan 10.

Send written letter interest to:

Christopher J. Dailey

Superintendent

260 State St., Batavia, NY 14020

Or email letter to:   CJDailey@bataviacsd.org

Ambassadors will be expected to attend three budget Monday sessions from 6:30 to p.m. on Feb. 4, Feb. 11, Feb. 25 in District Administration Conference Room #49.  

For questions or additional information, please contact the District Office at 343-2480, ext. 1000, or e-mail Superintendent Dailey at CJDailey@bataviacsd.org

STOCK Act of 2012 to be renamed in honor of late Congresswoman Louise Slaughter

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced that the Senate has passed legislation to rename the Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK) Act of 2012 after the late Representative Dorothy Louise McIntosh Slaughter.

Schumer and Gillibrand said that since this bill, introduced by Rep. Paul Tonko (D-Amsterdam, Montgomery County), passed the House last month and has now been passed by the Senate it is expected to be signed into law shortly. It is headed to the President Trump's desk for signature.

The STOCK Act prohibits members from using nonpublic information to make a profit. In other words, it outlaws insider trading in Congress.

Congresswomen Slaughter was a tireless fighter for Congressional ethics and integrity and was the original author of the STOCK Act. In 2012, Senator Gillibrand wrote the Senate version of the STOCK Act and was the lead champion in passing the bill through the chamber.

“Congresswoman Slaughter never stopped fighting for advancements in women’s rights, government ethics, medical research, Upstate economic revival and so much more, and is deserving of this great honor," Schumer said. "As the first Chairwoman of the House Committee on Rules, Louise Slaughter represented her Rochester constituents with passion, integrity and honor.

"The renaming of the landmark STOCK Act after Congresswoman Slaughter, which she authored and shepherded to passage, is a fitting way to commemorate her permanent status as a champion of democracy and integrity and undoubtedly one of the true trailblazers in Congress.”

Senator Gillibrand, who championed the STOCK Act in the Senate, said: “Congresswoman Louise Slaughter exemplified the very best of our elected leaders. She was kind, she was honorable, and she always believed in doing what was right on behalf of her constituents and her country.

"We worked very hard together to make sure that all members of Congress could be held to the highest standards. She first introduced the STOCK Act in 2006 and didn’t give up until it was signed into law. She was proud to see the bill that she championed to prevent corruption in Congress become law, and it is only fitting that we rename the legislation in her honor.” 

Representative Louise Slaughter served in the United States House of Representatives for 30 years in New York’s 30th, 28th, and 25th districts. From 2007 to 2011, she served as the first Chairwoman of the House Committee on Rules. Prior to her time in the House of Representatives, Slaughter spent four years representing New York’s 130th District in the State Assembly. 

Slaughter’s tenure in Congress was filled with a number of landmark achievements in the issue areas of women’s rights, medical research, government ethics, and many more. In 1993, Slaughter secured the very first $500 million in National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding to research breast cancer. In 1994, Slaughter passed the Violence Against Women Act, and was an original author of the legislation.

In 2006, Slaughter introduced the STOCK Act to the House of Representatives. She spent years pushing for this critical legislation, and in 2012 it passed the House by a 417-2 vote, and the Senate by a 96-3 vote.

(Editor's Note: Democrat Louise Slaughter was the elected representative of New York's 30th Congressional District from Jan. 3, 1987 to Jan. 3, 1993, which contained all of Genesee County at that time. It was eliminated following the 2000 U.S. Census. Genesee County is now in the 27th Congressional District. The Kentucky native died in March at age 88.)

(For more information on the life and career of Louise Slaughter, click here.)

City School District track and playground renovations get underway next week

By Billie Owens
Press release:
 

With Batavia City School District’s yearlong reconstruction project at the Daniel A. Van Detta Stadium at Woodward Field set to begin next week, the last day the track will be open to the public is Sunday, Oct. 14.

Likewise, the current playground across the street from the stadium (adjacent to the Robert Morris Building) also will be closed after Oct. 14. The playground will be relocated to a different area of the Robert Morris grounds and reopen in the spring.

Another part of the 2020 Vision Capital Project that will begin this month is the addition of four classrooms and interior renovations at John Kennedy School.

The exterior and interior renovations at Richmond Library will begin in December. Improvements to Jackson are slated to begin in February the High School projects are scheduled to start in May.

GC Health Department seeks public's help in finding owner of dog who bit bicyclist in Batavia Oct. 5

By Billie Owens

Press release issued this afternoon from the Genesee County Health Department:

On Friday, Oct. 5, a bicyclist was bitten by a dog that was handled by its assumed owner. The location on of the incident was approximately one block from Denny’s Restaurant heading east on Main Street in the City of Batavia.

The assumed owner of the dog is described as a white female, between the ages of 50-60, with medium-length dark hair. The dog is described as having black short fur with white on its legs and chest, and brown markings throughout. The dog is of a medium build and stands approximately knee-high in height.

The woman with the dog was talking to another dog walker and did not notice the bicyclist who was bitten by the dog. The bicyclist did not obtain any information from the woman with the dog and has not seen the dog since the incident.

“The purpose in locating the owner of the dog is to make sure the dog is up to date on its anti-rabies vaccine” said Sarah Balduf, Environmental Health director of Genesee and Orleans counties. “If the owner cannot be located, the individual will have to go through unnecessary treatment.”

Anyone with information on the dog and/or dog owner is asked to contact the Genesee County Health Department at 585-344-2580, ext. 5555. 

County planning board OKs Bergen party rental equipment project, Speedway fuel station in Pembroke

By Mike Pettinella

The Genesee County Planning Board on Thursday night recommended the approval of a proposal to build a 60,000-square-foot facility to house a party rental equipment business in Apple Tree Acres Business Park in the Town of Bergen.

The board also recommended approval -- with modifications -- of an expansion of Amada Tool in the City of Batavia, a new earth shoring business in the Town of Batavia and a new Speedway fueling station/convenience store in the Town of Pembroke.

All decisions by county planners are subject to approval by municipal town boards and zoning boards, and may require public hearings.

According to the site plan review submitted by Hank Parker Rental, the party rental equipment building would measure 200 by 300 feet.

Planners deemed that the business would have no adverse effects on the area, but recommended the applicant apply with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office to ensure that the address meets Enhanced 9-1-1 standards.

Alexander Amering, PE, of Costich Engineering submitted a site plan review to construct a 19,000-square-foot addition to Amada Tool at 4A Treadeasy Ave.

Planners signed on but stipulated that the applicant check with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation concerning any archaeological impact and also to complete a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan prior to final approval from the City Planning & Development Committee.

The same modifications apply to a site plan review submitted by Paul Vellano for an earth shoring office and storage facility at 4814 E. Saile Drive. The plan calls for the construction of a building measuring 40 feet by 80 feet.

Earth shoring and retention focuses on retaining soil that has been subjected to either a natural, unstable slope or a man-made excavation and when required, supporting existing adjacent structures.

Speedway, per applicant Jonathan Wocher, is proposing to construction a new gas station/store, and sought a special use permit and area variances for the number of signs – five as opposed to the maximum allowed of two; sign height – 100 feet as opposed to the maximum allowed of 50 feet, and sign area, 892 square feet as opposed to the maximum allowed of 100 square feet.

Planners recommended approval contingent upon the following:

-- Apply and obtain an area variance, or merge the two parcels (a Subway restaurant is on the other) as the land separation would result in the parcel to the south having less than the required frontage;

-- Reduce the freestanding sign area and height to conform with the Town's regulations or to a level consistent with the neighboring truck stops;

-- Conduct a phase 1 archeological survey wherever there will be a disturbance of the land;

-- Obtain documentation from NYS DOT for approval of the driveway given the change of use/intensity;

-- Complete, per DEC requirements, a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP);

-- Ensure that the storage and disposal of all new and used waste oils, lubricants, fuels, coolants and other hazardous materials lines up with all applicable State and Federal laws.

County Planning Director Felipe Oltramari said the developer agreed to all the modifications, including trying to obtain more frontage by possibly acquiring some property from the neighboring hotel on the east side of Route 77.

He also said the DOT will be restriping some of the road to help facilitate turning to and from the NYS Thruway.

Barber realizes dream to own his own business in Batavia

By Virginia Kropf

Owning his own business was Roy Bell Jr.’s dream, and with help from the Batavia Development Corporation, his dream is coming true.

On Saturday, along with Genesee County Chamber of Commerce President Tom Turnbull and representatives from the BDC, Bell and his family cut the ribbon to celebrate the opening of his own barbershop.

His business is located in his home at 49 Buell St. in Batavia.

While working for someone else, Bell attended barber school and began cutting hair in the kitchen of his upstairs apartment.

With guidance from the Chamber and a loan from BDC, Bell was able to rent a house, remodel the downstairs and buy the needed equipment.

“I love this,” Bell said, standing behind his barber chair. “It doesn’t feel like work.”

He had no trouble deciding on a name for his new shop.

With two young boys, 8 and 11, who already take an interest in the barbershop, Bell chose the name “Bell Boyz Barbershop.” It is his hope to someday leave the shop to them.

He offers full barbershop services, including shampoos, straight razor cuts, hot towel shaves, facial massages and more. He would like to get into offering “diva curl,” a process of washing hair with a special shampoo, all chemical free, to bring out the natural curl.

All haircuts are $13 on Mondays and he plans to offer raffles and other specials during the week, such as $10 brush cuts on Wednesdays or bring someone in on Tuesdays and get one-half off the second service.

Bell Boyz is open Monday through Saturday – by appointment only. He will accommodate other days by request. Appointments may be made by calling (585) 300-1242.

“I want my customers to come as a guest and leave as family,” Bell said.

Anyone in the City of Batavia who is interested in starting up or expanding their business can ask for assistance from the BDC.

“The Batavia Development Corporation is excited to support Roy Bell and Bell Boyz Barbershop here in the city with loan funds for his shop,” said Rachel Tabelski, director of Economic Development for the BDC. “The entrepreneurial and small business spirit is a testament to the hard work and perseverance that we have here in Batavia.”

Roy Bell Jr. is ready to greet customers at his new barbershop at 49 Buell St. in Batavia. He was able to go to barber school and establish his own business with a loan from the Batavia Development Corporation. Photos by Virginia Kropf.

'Little Guppies' invites community to Halloween party

By Virginia Kropf

Since opening Little Guppies Childcare three years ago, Amy Hathaway has been putting on a Halloween party for her students.

“We had so much fun with it, this year we decided to open it up to the community,” Hathaway said.

This is just one of the ways Hathaway plans to involve the community in her business, she said.

The party is scheduled from 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday Oct. 20 at Little Guppies Childcare at 42 Rochester St. in Bergen.

Several vendors have been invited, including Girl Scouts, Cal-Mum Cheerleaders, a new dance and gymnastics company from Batavia and some crafters.

There will also be games, prizes, food and fun for everyone in the family, Hathaway said.

Everything is free, except for pizza, which will be available to purchase. Money raised will help put in a new rock wall at the facility.

“This is our first year of opening this up to the general public and we are super excited about the response we have gotten so far,” Hathaway said.

Photos submitted by Ann Hathaway.

More than 50 people attended Jackson School Family & Student Learning Night

By James Burns

Thursday evening more than 50 children and their families came together to learn about English Language Arts Games and Math games to help kindergarten and first-graders learn at home. 

The activities and games the parents learned about are design to help their children learn at home and reinforce what the children are taught in school.  These games correspond to the CORE curriculum taught at Jackson Primary School.  

The current curriculum was also discussed with parents so they may better understand their children’s education. 

McMurray says Collins won't be able to serve constituents while awaiting trial in 2020

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Nate McMurray, Democrat and Working Families Party Congressional candidate in NY-27, today responded to news that his opponent, indicted member of Congress Chris Collins won’t stand trial until 2020. Collins was indicted on charges of insider trading and lying to the FBI in August.

“Now it’s official, Chris Collins will be beholden to his defense attorneys for the next year and a half, not the voters, not the hard-working people of Western New York, but his lawyers," McMurray said.

"He won’t just be a part-time, he’ll be a no-time Congressman. This is shocking and truly embarrassing to the people of Western New York. I’m out talking to voters every day and they tell me that they deserve better. They’re right.

“House Speaker Paul Ryan has stripped Collins of all of his committee assignments in Congress. He won’t help the people of this region. He can’t help the people of this region. He never did. There couldn’t be a clearer contrast in this race. He will not let go of his congressional seat until this trial is over, or until the voters take it from him. They will.”

This morning, McMurray stood shoulder-to-shoulder with more than 100 activists and supporters from the labor community who pledged to work to get McMurray elected on Nov. 6. They praised his integrity, work ethic and commitment to the values that help the working men and women of this region.

McMurray was endorsed by New York’s Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, the last Democrat to win this district and a great champion of Western New York./p>

McMurray'’s rally with working people comes a day after he announced polling that shows a dead heat between himself and Collins. Earlier this week, McMurray’s campaign announced he raised close to a half million dollars in the third quarter with the vast majority of that money coming in the seven weeks following Collins’ indictment – and that total does not include any corporate PAC money.

Sponsored Post: Genesee County Fair thanks all sponsors and volunteers

By Lisa Ace


Thank You to the Generous Sponsors of the 2018 Genesee County Fair! Barniak Farms, Belhaven Kennels, Big O Farms, Carolina Eastern Crocker, Carquest Genesee, Castilone Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Chapin, Clark Farms, LLC, Clark Patterson Lee, Corfu Machine, D & R Depot Restaurant, Inc., Dewey Produce, Inc., Erie and Niagara Insurance Association, Freed Maxik CPA's PC, First Choice Travel, Inc., Genesee County Farm Bureau, Genesee Country Farmers Market, Genesee Patrons Cooperative Insurance Company, Graham Corporation, Gutter Logic, LLC, HP Hood, Jackson Welding & Gas Products, Ken Barrett Chevrolet Cadillac, L & L Transmissions, Inc., Lamb Farms, Inc, Lee Shuknecht & Sons Inc., Liberty Pumps, LJK Feeds, MacDuffie Sand & Gravel, Maple Moon Farms, LLC, Orcon Industries, Perry Veterinary Clinic, P.L., L.C., Pumpkin Hill Veterinary Clinic, Reisdorf Oil & Propane, Reyncrest Farms, Roblee Plumbing, LLC, SJ Starowicz Farms, LLC, Sloat Tire Shop, State Street Animal Hospital, Student Transportation of America, Superior Plus Energy, Terry Hills Golf Course, Restaurant & Banquet Facility, Tompkins Bank of Castile, Torrey Farms, Toyota of Batavia, Triple-O Mechanical, Inc., Turnbull Heating & Air Conditioning, United Memorial Medical Center, Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Inc., WalMart, William Kent, Inc. Will's Carpet One, Windy Acres Farm 

Thank You to those who donated material/equipment or helped to make the Fair a success 
A&N Automotive, Adam Mazz Auto, Adams Welding and Fabrication, Alabama Holley Farm, Alan's ATM, Alexander Equipment, AMS Fence, April Meier, Auto Wash - Batavia, Baskin Livestock, Batavia Legal Printing, Batavia Restaurant Supply, Ben & Jim Duyssen, Bethany FD, Bob Maute, Carrie Beil, Cedar Street Sales & Rental, Chris & Mike Maher, Coco Landscaping, Cowgirl Couture, Dan Duyssen Farm, Darryl Mayes, Dave & Brenda Dermody, East Town Beverage, Ed's Auto Parts, Empire Access, Empire Tractor, Extreme Streetwear, Faith at the Fair Volunteers, Genesee Co. CCE – Master Gardeners, Genesee County Legislature, Genesee Co. Photo Club, Genesee County Sheriff's Department, Genesee Speedway, Genesee Valley Penny Saver, George & Swede Sales & Service, Greg Post - General Contracting, Hammerl Amusements, Harrington Produce, Hazlett Services, Home Depot – Batavia, L Kingdon Mechanical, J&H Weber Services, J&L Ice, Jack & Sundae Duyssen, Jack MacDuffie, James Foss & Family, Jason & Crystal Heimlich, Java Farm Supply, Jeff Condidorio – Bread Delivery, Jim & Pam Johnson & Family, Joe Lewindowski, Joe's Pro Shop, Kelly & Lilly Stalica, Kitana Maher, L.D. Stevens Golf Carts, Land Pro, Lardon Disposal-Mark Palmer, Larry & Sue Carlson, Lift School of Music - Laura Kauppi, Lor, Rob Farms, Lori & Tony Prinz, M&J Anderson Concessions, Mark Willis, Michael Houseknecht, Milton Cat - Batavia, Monroe Tractor, Norm Sr. & Pat Pimm, O'Brien's Septic, Paul Hirsch, Paul Smith, Refuse Service, Photography by Susan Meier, Posy Power Peddler, Pudgie's Lawn & Garden, R.W. Taylor Trucking & Excavating, RKK Trucking & Excavating, Ron & Chris Brown, Ron & Julie Radley, Rose Maher & Bill Davis, Scofield Rolloff Service, Scott Adams Trucking, Shell's Post, Skyworks, Smitty’s Amish Sheds, Smokin' Eagle Solid Gold Productions, Southern Tier Fire Extinguishers, Stafford FD, Sterling Tent & Awnings, Steve Warner, Sue Rich, Summer Kick Off Classic Horse Show Volunteers, SUNY Morrisville, T.S. Lighting, LLC, Talent Show Volunteers, The Batavia Daily News, The Batavian, The Original Red Osier Landmark Restaurant, Tim & Joanne Horine, Tim Adams & Steven Foster, Todd & Amanda Hofheins, Town of Batavia FD, United Way of Genesee County, WBTA, WCJW, Wright Beverage Distributing, Wright Wisner, WYRK, Yasses Trucking & Construction *We apologize for anyone who we missed* 

Grand Jury: Man accused of predatory sexual assault against a child under age 13 in Oakfield

By Billie Owens

John M. Grabowski is indicted for the crime of predatory sexual assault against a child, a Class A-II felony. It is alleged that on Feb. 16, 2016, in the Town of Oakfield that Grabowski commited first-degree rape -- he being age 18 or older and the victim with whom he is accused of engaging in sexual intercourse was less than 13 years old. In counts two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine and 10, the defendant is accused of second-degree rape, a Class D violent felony. It is alleged in those counts that the adult defendant engaged in sexual intercourse with a person less that 15 in the Town of Oakfield, respectively, on: May 22, 2016; July 4, 2016; Feb. 27, 2017; May 22, 2017; July 4, 2017; Thanksgiving Day (November) 2017; Christmas Day (December) 2017; and Feb. 27, 2018. In counts 10, 11 and 12, Grabowski is accused of third-degree rape, a Class E felony, for allegedly engaging in sexual intercourse as an adult male with three other persons less than 17 on these respective dates in the Town of Oakfield: May 22, 2018; July 4, 2018; and July 23, 2018. In count 13, he is accused of criminal sexual act in the third degree, a Class E felony, for allegedly engaging in oral sexual conduct without the person's consent, and that was due to some reason other than incapacity to consent. In count 14, Grabowski is accused of endangering the welfare of a child, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count 14 that the defendant knowingly acted in a manner likely to be injurious to the physical, mental or moral welfare of a child less than 17 and did so between Oct. 1, 2016 and July 24, 2018, in the Town of Oakfield.

Trametrias L. Scott is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated, as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on May 27, 2018 in the Town of Bergen, that she drove a 2005 GMC on Route 33 in the Town of Bergen while in an intoxicated condition. In count two, Scott is accused of aggravated DWI, per se, as a Class E felony. It is alleged in count two, that she had a BAC of .18 percent or more at the time. In count three, the defendant is accused of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged in count three that Scott knew, or had reason to know, that her driver's license was suspended, revoked or otherwise withdrawn by authorities at the time and that she was under the influence of alcohol or a drug at the time. In count four, she is accused of circumventing an ignition interlock device, a Class A misdemeanor, for driving the GMC which was not equipped with this device she was required to have. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney's Office, Scott is accused of having been convicted of DWI, as a misdemeanor, on Aug. 5, 2016, in the City of Rochester Court, and that conviction was within 10 years of the crimes alleged in the current indictment.

GLOW Workforce Development Board to host Business Forum Wednesday at GC Career Center

By Billie Owens

The Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties Workforce Development Board will host a Business Forum at the Genesee County Career Center in Batavia on Wednesday, Oct. 17. Time is 1 to 2:30 p.m.

This is an opportunity for job seekers to hear directly from hiring managers of local businesses. Job seekers who attend can hear about local job openings and employer expectations. Many of the job seekers that the career center is currently working with are invited to attend, however it is open to the public and would encourage any job seeker to attend the event.

Join participants for an informal question-and-answer session with hiring managers from several local businesses, including: Chapin Manufacturing; Lifetime Assistance; Premiere Genesee Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation; Remedy Staffing; and United Memorial Medical Center.

Employers' reps may talk about current job openings!

The career center is located at 587 E. Main St., #100, Batavia. Phone is (585) 344-2042. Call to sign up or come to the front desk to reserve your spot.

Law and Order: Ellicott Street man charged with sex crimes against underage victim

By Billie Owens

Thomas Dale Young, 38, of Ellicott Street, Batavia, is charged with: criminal sex act in the third degree -- being age 21 or more with a victim less than 17; criminal sexual act in the first degree -- by forcible compulsion; and sex abuse in the first degree -- contact by forcible compulsion. Young was arrested at 4:58 a.m. on Oct. 9 after allegedly committing the crimes for which he is charged. Batavia police were called to a residence on Ellicott Street for an incident that had recently occurred. After an investigation, Young was arrested, arraigned and put in jail in lieu of $50,000 bail or $100,000 bond. He was due in City Court on Wednesday. The case was investigated by Batavia Police Officer Felicity DeGroot, assisted by Officer Nicole McGinnis.

Susan Ann Samanka, 55, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with a sex offender registry violation. She was arrested at 10 a.m. on Oct. 10 at 4054 W. Main Street Road, Room #7, in Batavia following an investigation for allegedly failing to register her change of address. The registered sex offender was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Batavia Court and is scheduled to appear there on Nov. 1. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan DeLong.

Jamie L. Edenholm, 31, of Gabbey Road, Corfu. She was arrested at 4:13 p.m. on Oct. 5 on Richmond Avenue in Batavia and charged with: driving while ability impaired by drugs; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree; possession of a hypodermic needle; criminal use of drug paraphernalia; and failure to keep right. The arrest was made after a car vs. telephone pole accident. She was issued appearance tickets and is due in City Court on Nov. 7. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Officer Frank Klimjack.

Katty L. Jackson, 22, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal trespass. She was arrested at 6:45 a.m. on Oct. 8 on Central Avenue in Batavia after previously being told she was not welcome at her ex-boyfriend's residence. She allegedly entered the residence and knocked at the interior door for an extended period of time. She was released on an appearance ticket. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Marc Lawrence.

Elena E. Vega-Vazquez, 36, of Washington Avenue, Batavia, is charged with: aggravated DWI -- with a BAC of .18 percent or more; common law DWI; and failure to keep right. She was arrested at 12:17 a.m. Oct. 5 on Harvester Avenue after a traffic stop for allegedly failing to keep right. She is due in City Court again on Oct. 17. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Mitchell Cowen, assisted by Officer Stephen Cronmiller.

Joshua D. Sumeriski, 33, of Buffalo Road, Alexander, is charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. He was arrested after allegedly operating a motor vehicle at 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 5 on West Main Street in Batavia without the owner's consent. He was arraigned on Oct. 8 in City Court and put in jail in lieu of $1,000 bail. He was due back in City Court on Oct. 9. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jamie Givens.

Janeen A. Young, 21, of William Street, East Randolph, is charged with petit larceny in connection with an incident which occurred at 11:20 a.m. on Jan. 3 at an apartment on Jackson Street in Batavia. Young was arrested on Oct. 5 on an outstanding City Court warrant. She was arraigned and released on her own recognizance. She is due in City Court again on Nov. 20. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Catherine Mucha.

Christopher J. Wiegman, 30, no permanent address, Batavia, is charged with failure to appear. He was arrested on a warrant out of City Court for failure to appear on Sept. 27 in court. He was due in City Court on Oct. 9. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Mitchell Cowen, assisted by Officer Chad Richards.

Brian P. Suttell, 41, of Lake Street Road, Le Roy, is charged with criminal possession of marijuana in the fifth degree. He was arrested at 9:20 p.m. on Oct. 6 on East Main Street in Batavia after police allegedly witnessed him smoking marijuana in a public parking lot in the city. He was issued an appearance ticket for City Court and is due there Oct. 23. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Mitchell Cowen, assisted by Officer Nicole McGinnis.

Bergen singer songwriter Luca to perform next month at SoCal's largest Pride celebration

By Billie Owens

Photo of Luca (real name Luke Farner) courtesy of Julia McCormick Photography.

Press release:

BERGEN -- On Nov. 4th Luka will be performing at the largest Pride celebration in Southern California. Luka will perform immediately following the Pride Parade through downtown Palm Springs capping off the last day of Pride Week.

The Greater Palm Springs Pride Week in Downtown Palm Springs is the setting for a vibrant, pedestrian friendly Pride Festival, unique to Southern California in the Coachella Valley. A diverse array of artists, entertainers, LGBTQ+ supporters, and celebrities will unite to celebrate achievements in social equality, diversity and unity.

Luka will be celebrating with the Pride Parade on Sunday, Nov. 4th, and performing on the Museum Stage, in the heart of downtown, next to the Palm Springs Art Museum.

He will be giving the crowd some New York’s favorites including: Lesbe Honest, Nobody’s B#tch, King Bee, and XXXtra Terrestrial. Luka has performed in venues around New York and is excited to make his first debut on the California entertainment scene.

“I am honored and blessed to be invited to participate Palm Springs Pride,” Luka said. “This event means so much to me and honors all generations of LGBTQ+ community members and supporters.

"We would never be here today, celebrating our unity and equality without the pioneers who deeply relentlessly sacrificed themselves to achieve equality for all individuals.”

About Luka: Luka is a singer songwriter artist (real name Luke Farner) who lives in Bergen. He has been writing and performing since he was 8 years old. He is also a renowned stylist fashion guru adored by many of his clients. Luka lives with his 14-year-old kitty Anastasia Marie. Find more about Luka here.

About Palm Springs Pride: Greater Palm Springs Pride is a nonprofit community enhancement organization founded to promote the public education and awareness of individual rights and civil liberties of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and to promote the history, diversity and future prosperity of the Greater Palm Springs LGBT community. Serving as an advocate for equality and diversity in the Coachella Valley for 30 years.

BHS seniors made a difference in the community Wednesday by helping others

By Billie Owens

Above photo: Taiyo Iburi-Bethel working at the Habitat for Humanity job site on East Main Street in Batavia.

Submitted photos and press release:

Batavia High School seniors participated Wednesday in the annual Make a Difference Day. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., various community service projects were carried out in nonprofits throughout the community.

Benefitting agencies included: All Babies Cherished, Arc of Genesee Orleans, Batavia Agri-Business Child Development, Batavia Housing Authority, Batavia Peace Garden, City of Batavia Youth Bureau, Crossroads House, Genesee County Parks, Genesee County Youth Bureau, Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council, Habitat for Humanity, Holland Land Office Museum, NYS Veterans’ Home, Premier Genesee Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation, United Memorial Medical Center, VA WNY Healthcare System of Batavia, YMCA, YWCA Children’s Center, and the YWCA of Genesee County.

Batavia City Schools is dedicated to helping their seniors, more than 140 of them, learn and develop the importance of giving back to their own community while helping to foster civic responsibility.

This is an integral part of their Batavia High School academic curriculum, and is a component of their graduation requirements.

Above photo: Kate Folger is busy at the Habitat for Humanity job site on East Main Street.

Above photo: Elise Hoerbelt weeding at Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council.

Photo above: Alex Christensen making decorations for a Halloween party.

Above photo from left: Felicity Anderson, Karissa Kesler, Shay Kilner and Tracy Lin at Premier Genesee Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation setting up for games with residents.

Above photo from left: Jocelyn Castaneda, Elizabeth Cohen and Nia Ross helping out at the YMCA Preschool.

Above photo from left: Amanda Jackson, Hannah Finkney, Garrett Harloff, Damien Sprague, Tom Ognibene, Anthony McMaster and Cristina Kolberg helped with yard work at the VA Medical Center.

Top Items on Batavia's List

Town Court Clerk Below are two lists: one details the myriad responsibilities that fall within the purview of the court clerk; the other summarizes the knowledge and abilities that court clerks possess or acquire through training. These lists are provided so that a judge and municipality can intelligently discuss the benefits that a court clerk can provide. The items below can also form the basis for a list of job duties should a municipality need to fill a vacancy in a court clerk position. Primary Responsibilities A. Maintain confidentiality of records and information when required to do so B. Prepare court calendar C. Collect monies, reconcile daily receipts, deposit receipts, prepare reports for monthly disbursements, reconcile bank accounts, and prepare administrative reports D. Enter convictions on drivers' licenses and prepare conviction reports electronically transmitted to the Department of Motor Vehicles E. Enter criminal conviction on NCIC reports and electronically send same to Division of Criminal Justice Services F. Respond to inquiries-in person, by phone, by e-mail and by mail-and provide assistance to lawyers, litigants, media, and members of the public G. Prepare monthly reports that are electronically sent to the Office of the State Comptroller H. Prepare orders, summonses, warrants and other court forms i. Communicate with outside agencies in order to coordinate the Court's activities and provide services to litigants. Such agencies include: ii. Law enforcement agencies, such as local police departments, New York State Police, Sheriffs office, FBI and CIA, US Armed Forces, and the Office of the District Attorney; I. Other courts, including superior courts and other local town and village courts; and i. Miscellaneous county agencies, such as Community Service, Community Dispute Resolution Center, Pre-trial Release, Probation, Stop DWI program, Victim Impact Panel, and Youth Court. ii. State agencies that require periodic reporting, including the New York State Unified Court System, the Department of Motor Vehicles, the Office of the State Comptroller, the Division of Criminal Justice Services, and the Office of Court Record Retention. J. Examine court documents to ensure their accuracy and completeness K. Receive and file summonses, traffic tickets and other documents for court proceedings i. Assist the Justice at the bench during all Court proceedings Knowledge of: 1. The functions and organization of the Unified Court System ii. Basic legal terminology, codes and abbreviations iii. Court forms, practices and procedures, including those set forth in the Uniform Justice Court Act and the Uniform Civil Rules for the Justice Courts (22 NYCRR Part 214) 2. Ability to: i. Prepare judicial orders and decisions ii. Effectively communicate information orally and in writing iii. File and retrieve materials, extract data from various sources for entry onto court form iv. Research and interpret laws outlined in court documents and litigants' motions and other papers v. Perform mathematical tasks in order to compile court activity reports, total receipts, accept payments, and verify bills vi. Refer to appropriate documents, statutes, citations or other sources in order to respond to specific questions from attorneys, litigants and members of the general public vii. Interpret policies, statutes, rules and regulations and apply them in specific contexts viii. Establish work priorities ix. Constructively manage conflict with court users Qualifications: Highschool diploma recognized by the NYS Dept of Education or appropriate equivalent. Along with 4 years of college, specialization in criminal justice, law, business administration or related field. -OR- 2 years college with specialization in Business Administration or related field. Please email your resume to abrownell@townofbatavia.com no later than 12/16/2024. Pay is based on experience.
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