batavia

The Genesee Justice/Jail building at 14 West Main Street needs a new roof, and it seems the County Legislature Ways & Means Committee is in a little tiff with the city over what kind of roofing material is permissible.

The county applied to the city's Historic Preservation Board to replace the current roof with asphalt shingles, but the request was denied, according to minutes from the April 15 Ways & Means Committee meeting minutes.

The lowest of five bids for the re-roofing project, at $197,000, proposed asphalt shingles. The next lowest bid, using synthetic slate is $67,000 higher.

Committee members question whether the city has the authority to declare a county building part of a preservation zone.

The minutes note that the preservation board approved the synthetic slate roof "reluctantly," without any detail on what that means.

A motion to approve the $264,000 bid from Grove Roofing Services was tabled after some discussion and the matter was referred to the county attorney for further review.

During the discussion, County Legislator Jay Grasso noted that both City Hall and the new county courthouse have asphalt roofs.

At about 1 p.m. today, we e-mailed City Manager Jason Molino for clarification of the city's position and have yet to receive a reply.

UPDATE: After this post, I e-mailed County Manager Jay Gsell to double check whether anything had changed since the April 15 Ways and Means meeting.  In response, he made these points:

• City Hall was not directly part of process county pursued to get approval for roof replacement options other than new slate.
• The Historic Preservation Board was called on because of requirements in city Code, but the new buildings (as mentioned above) do not fall under the board's jurisdiction, so it's not an accurate comparison.
• Bids were solicited as required by state law and the roof of this building is complex both interms of removal and new systems/replacement and materials with a 50-year life expectancy (asphalt shingle is 25 years).

"Bottom line is that roof is over 100 years old," Gsell wrote. "It's in bad shape. This building is on Register of Historic Buildings and we intend to keep using for county functions for a long time, including our  back up emergency 911 center should 165 Park Road for some bizarre reason not be functional."

The Ways and Means Committee meets tomorrow at 4 p.m. and will revisit this issue.

Richmond Memorial Library's polls are open today until 9 p.m. so voters can decide on this year's budget.

Also, Trustee John McGee is running unopposed for reelection to a five-year term.

Registered voters who live in the Batavia City School District are eligible to cast a ballot. Voting takes place in the Gallery Room of the library, located at 19 Ross St.

The library's top four sources of revenue were the school district, gifts/endowments, library fees/printing charges and Genesee County funding. If more funding is approved this year, the library's plans include possibly increasing its hours of operation.

The next revision of the Batavia city charter is heading to the attorney for review after the Charter Review Commission polished up its proposed changes tonight.

The last issue to get any discussion dealt with the definition of "affiliation" in the case a city council member resigned office mid-term -- if a council member was elected by a political party different from his or her affiliation at the time of resignation, which party should get to appoint the replacement.

By a 3-4 vote, the commission rejected a proposed change that would have defined according to which party gave the candidate the most votes.

Commission members who objected to the change said the current definition is clear, has worked for years, and less likely to subvert the will of the voters.

"We are trying to infer what voters want instead of keeping it black and white," said Matt Landers. "We're getting into a subjective area."

The issue was raised last month by Councilman Bill Cox, who was elected as a Republican on a Democratic line. He asked who would get to appoint his replacement if he resigned for any reason. Under the current charter, it seems, the Republicans would get to pick the new member.

After the city attorney finishes his review, the commission will meet to discuss any of his language changes and then set a public hearing for the revised charter in July. The vote will be in November.

If a high speed rail system is built between Albany and Buffalo as part of President Obama's transportation stimulus package, don't expect a stop in Batavia, according to Tim Hens, county highway superintended.

"They won't stop for us now, so I can't image they will stop for us at double the speed," Hens said.

Hens said its his understanding that the high-speed line will only stop at major cities.

There hasn't been a rail stop in Batavia -- which was part of history when Lincoln's train stopped here -- in his lifetime, which means for at least 35 or 40 years, Hens said.

There currently is an Amtrak route that heads east from Buffalo and the trip to Albany can take seven hours or longer, Hens noted, with stops to yield right-of-way to cargo trains and whether being two factors that can increase the length of the trip.

"You can drive a car there in half the time," Hens said.

Hens advocates a new dedicated line for a high-speed rail, but that would entail a great deal more expense, including new passenger stations and switches. The only place to build a rail without acquiring new right-of-way is along the path of the Thruway, but the Thruway Authority, he noted, has it's own agenda, which includes collecting tolls from drivers who might opt for rail over car travel if it were available.

While a rail stop in Batavia could be beneficial to the city, Hens said, it's just too close to both Buffalo and Rochester to efficiently run a train between spots so close together.

"You would get up to speed about half way from Buffalo and need to slow down to stop in Batavia," he said.

Today's Deal of the Day: A $25 gift certificate from Batavia Downs Grandstand Bar & Grille in Batavia. The Batavian's Good Deal Price: $12.50 -- HALF off!

Enjoy a great meal in one of Genesee County's favorite entertainment venues.

Rules: The gift certificate must be used by within 30 days of purchase. It is not valid with other offers and has no cash value. By law, gift certificates cannot be used for purchase of alcohol.

How to win: Purchase using the PayPal "Buy Now" button below. After the first person to hit the "buy now" button completes the purchase, PayPal will let you know that the item has been sold. Ideally, the winner will arrange to stop by my office on Main Street before 5:00 p.m. to pick up the gift certificate. Mail is an option, but it would be better to hand you the gift certificate. 

If you want to be notified via e-mail of future Deals of the Day, sign up for the Deals of the Day e-mail list by clicking here.

SOLD

Merchants: If you would like your business featured in Deal of the Day, call Howard Owens at 260-6970.Don't forget about our online exclusive from Roxy's Music: A guitar and amp, a $450 value, available through The Batavian only for $295. Click Here.

Reader Holly Carney was on scene Sunday for a duck rescue. Carney tells us that a mother duck waited for help by a sewer where her ducklings had fallen. Firefighters, whom Carney calls "the true heroes of this town," arrived with nets to scoop out the babies. She says, " It was truly amazing.  They were so dedicated to the rescue of these animals.  Imagine how dedicated to our safety the are."

UPDATE: Holly just passed along this picture of the ducklings and momma.

Andrew Hall-Jones, 56, of Stafford, is charged with petty larceny after allegedly stealing clothes from outside an apartment in Stafford. He is being held in Genesee County Jail on $500 bail.

Rachel A. Baehr, 22, of Elba is in jail on a bench warrant after she allegedly failed to appear in a previous child endangerment case. She is held on $500 bail. Baehr was also taken into custody Friday at 3:30 p.m. on a petty larceny charge. She is accused of attempting to steal three 12-ounce bottles of Corona beer from Kmart by concealing them in her purse.

Timothy J. Smith, 19, of Basom, is charged with unlawfully dealing with a child after allegedly hosting an under-age drinking party. The party was reportedly held Saturday night on Lewiston Road in Basom. Deputies say Smith allowed people under 21 to drink while attending the party. He was taken into custody early Sunday morning and issued an appearance ticket.

Anne Weremblewski, 54, of Batavia, is accused of using a kitchen knife to scratch a neighbor's car. She is charged with a felony count of criminal mischief. She was released on her own recognizance and ordered not to engage in offensive conduct.

Jason Cramer, 25, of Batavia, allegedly made an "unreasonable noise" inside his residence during a domestic dispute. This caused neighbors to call 911. He is charged with disorderly conduct and possession of marijuana. The incident occurred early Saturday morning.

Vincent T. Winterkorn, 50, of Rochester, was stopped for reportedly speeding along Route 33 in through Stafford on Friday at about 7 p.m. Upon further investigation, it was determined that he appeared intoxicated. He is charged with DWI with a BAC of .08 or greater, driving without a license and speeding.

Andrew J. Rock, 22, of Batavia, is charged with petty larceny. Rock is accused of attempting to shoplift two bottles of perfume from Target. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Robert Piechocki, 45, of Alexander is accused of slapping his wife during a domestic dispute. He is charged with menacing and harassment. He is held on $1,500 bail.

The Care-A-Van Band made up of local muscians made it's first debut with a practice with our outing to a local neighborhood this past Saturday.

Stay tuned for more details on this exciting group of local talent!

Today's Deal of the Day: A $25 gift certificate from Herbly Wonderful in Batavia. The Batavian's Good Deal Price: $12.50 -- HALF off!

Spring is finally here! The sure sign, Herbly Wonderful is open for the season Herbly Wonderful offers a variety of flowers, herbs and teas.  Herbly Wonderful is located at 3701 Pearl St.

Rules: The gift certificate must be used by within 30 days of purchase. It is not valid with other offers and has no cash value. 

How to Win: Purchase using the PayPal "Buy Now" button below. After the first person to hit the "buy now" button completes the purchase, PayPal will let you know that the item has been sold. Ideally, the winner will arrange to stop by my office on Main Street before 5:00 p.m. ON MONDAY to pick up gift certificate. Mail is an option, but it would be better to hand you the gift certificate. 

If you want to be notified via e-mail of future Deals of the Day, sign up for the Deals of the Day e-mail list by clicking here.

Merchants: If you would like your business featured in Deal of the Day, call Howard Owens at 260-6970.

SOLD

Don't forget about our online exclusive from Roxy's Music: A guitar and amp, a $450 value, available through The Batavian only for $295. Click Here.

Here's a great offer just in time for Mother's Day: Today's Deal of the Day: A $25 gift certificate from The Enchanted Florist in Batavia. The Batavian's Good Deal Price: $12.50 -- HALF off!

The Enchanted Florist is located at 202 E. Main Street and is a charming store with crafts and floral arrangements.

Rules: The gift certificate must be used by within 30 days of purchase. It is not valid with other offers and has no cash value. 

How to Win: Purchase using the PayPal "Buy Now" button below. After the first person to hit the "buy now" button completes the purchase, PayPal will let you know that the item has been sold. Ideally, the winner will arrange to stop by my office on Main Street before 5:00 p.m. ON MONDAY to pick up gift certificate. Mail is an option, but it would be better to hand you the gift certificate. 

If you want to be notified via e-mail of future Deals of the Day, sign up for the Deals of the Day e-mail list by clicking here.

Merchants: If you would like your business featured in Deal of the Day, call Howard Owens at 260-6970.

SOLD

Don't forget about our online exclusive from Roxy's Music: A guitar and amp, a $450 value, available through The Batavian only for $295. Click Here.

Press release:

The Kiwanis Club of Batavia announces recipients of its 2009 Annual Law Enforcement Recognition Awards, plus the Unsung Hero Award and winners of the Charles  L. Mancuso Award

Nominations for the Law Enforcement Recognition Awards were evaluated based on the candidates’ actions and achievements in their personal and professional lives consistent with the values of Kiwanis. All sworn and civilian employees of local law enforcement agencies within Genesee County were eligible for nomination. Those honored have demonstrated principles and ideals consistent with the Kiwanis Club:

A commitment to human and spiritual qualities, rather than material values. Adoption and application of high social, business and professional standards. Citizenship and service to the community and their agency. A desire to create and maintain sound public opinion and high idealism, which promotes compassion, justice, patriotism and goodwill.

The 2009 Law Enforcement Award Recipients are:

• Police Officer John J. Zola, City of Batavia Police Department

Zola has been a member of the department for 29 years and is currently assigned to uniformed patrol duties. In addition to his regular patrol duties, he is involved in community crime prevention programs and serves as a Public Information Officer. He is also a Child Safety Seat Technician and has worked in the Detective Bureau. Zola is committed to citizenship and is very involved with youth sports activities in the City of Batavia. He continually gives of himself to the City of Batavia Police Department and community, and has a sincere compassion for crime victims. Zola resides in the Town of Batavia with his wife, Pam. They have two children, Kevin and Tonya. Zola was nominated by his commanding officer, Chief Randy Baker. 

• Youth Officer Christopher M. Erion, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office

Erion has been a member of the Sheriff’s Office for nine years. His current duties include handling juvenile cases, teaching D.A.R.E. and assisting young people. He's a member of the County’s Juvenile Justice Planning Committee and the Emergency Response Team. He also worked with the Genesee County Drug Task Force and is a member of the Sheriff’s Honor Guard. Erion also works closely with schools in regard to youth activities. He was Officer of the Year in 2003 and is the recipient of one Commendation Award. He is a dedicated husband and father and resides in the Town of Byron with his wife, Hanna, and their two children, Grayson, age 3 and Annabelle, age 2. They are expecting their third child in July. Erion was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Sheriff Gary T. Maha.

• Chief Christopher K. Hayward, Village of LeRoy Police Department

Hayward is a 25-year veteran of the Village of LeRoy Police Department. He currently manages and oversees the department on a daily basis and is the liaison for numerous agencies, such as schools, within Genesee County. He has shown an unending commitment to the community and he sets high social and professional standards for himself and his officers. He was instrumental in establishing the Youth Court in LeRoy, which was used as a model for the Genesee County Youth Court. He initiated a community bicycle safety program and a public awareness program related to alcohol use by underage youth. He serves his community as a coach for the girl’s soccer league and has been a coach for the LeRoy High School girls soccer program for the past four years. He is currently an assistant coach for the girl’s varsity track team. Hayward resides in the Village of LeRoy with his wife, Kelly, and their two daughters, Kara, age 20 and Rachel, age 17. Members of the Village of LeRoy Police Department nominated Hayward for this award.

• Trooper Ryan A. Dulkiewicz, New York State Police

Dulkiewicz has been a member of the New York State Police for 6-and-a-half years. He is currently assigned to Troop A Batavia road-patrol duties. He represents law enforcement in a positive, professional and compassionate manner.  His desire to “leave no stone unturned” in criminal investigations proves outstanding and yields tremendous results for the public and community. Dulkiewicz resides in the Town of Lancaster with his wife, Jen, and their six-month old daughter, Camarin. He was nominated for this award by his commanding officer, Major Christopher Cummings.

Other awards given were the Charles L. Mancuso Award and the Unsung Hero Award.

The Genesee County Bar Association presented the third annual Charles L. Mancuso Award to Batavia High School. It was this year's winner of the GLOW (Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming) District Competition in the New York State Mock Trial Tournament. Mancuso was a lawyer in Batavia and coordinator of the local competition until his death three years ago.

The team, coached by social studies teacher Tim Stevens, has competed in, and won, the local tournament for each of the past seven years. They accomplished this by winning 44 out of 45 of the trials they have participated in. BHS will go on to compete in the Regional Tournament at the Genesee County Courts Facility in Batavia on Saturday, May 9.

The BHS team members honored with the Charles L. Mancuso Award include:

Jenna Bauer
Damainique Bruce
Maura Chmielowiec
Will Ely
Patrick Flynn
Sahil Jain
Kristen Klein
Chad Luce
Adi Marino
Tim Redband
CJ Shultz
Evan Sutherland

Unsung Hero Award

The Genesee County Bar Association presented its Unsung Hero Award to John Cebula, a local attorney who lives in Castile. Cebula is a graduate of Union College in Schenectady and Albany Law School. He began his career representing the indigent with Orleans Legal Aid Bureau in 1973 and became its executive director from 1975 through 1981. After a 4 year diversion to private and corporate practice, John returned to the position of executive director of Oak Orchard Legal Services. It replaced the Orleans County Legal Aid Bureau and his responsibilities expanded to serve the indigent in Genesee, Wyoming and Orleans counties. In 2004 Oak Orchard Legal Services merged with Erie County Neighborhood Legal Services and John continued as managing attorney for the Oak Orchard branch. Cebula retired from this position in 2008, but continues to represent indigent clients on a part-time basis. Throughout his career Cebula has been a vigorous advocate for the poor and has significantly “raised the bar”  in providing legal services for those in need.

Sheriff deputies are responding to a reported fight in the parking lot of College Village.  The fight may involve as many as 12 people.

The alleged instigators are reportedly now fleeing in a Toyota, license plate DKV729.

The large corner desk was covered with at least 10 stacks of paper. But Pamela Buresch doesn't panic at the sight or the cluttered book shelves or the memo board tacked over with stuff.

As administrator of student assessment and data analysis for the Batavia City School District, she's responsible for oodles of projects linked to these paper trails. And she says she knows what's in each pile.

"I love my job," she said with a warm smile and a calm, focused attitude.

These days, the lifelong educator is busy coordinating district and state assessment programs for pre-K through 12th grade. The work involves analyzing test scores, student results, state reporting and testing protocols. She also looks at data to determine where students did well or need further instruction.

State assessments are conducted each year in grades 3 to 12 to measure how well students are learning. There was testing in January and there will be more this month as well as in June and August.

When it comes to testing, Buresch analyzes each question. If students do poorly on a test she looks at all angles. How was the question worded? How much of this was covered in class? The answers help educators improve the tests.

Superintendent Margaret Puzio said student achievement data plays an increasingly important role in educational reform.

“Our new Secretary of Education Arne Duncan is known for using academic performance data to innovate," said the superintendent. "He closed down poor-performing schools in Chicago based on data and reopened them with new staff. For example, a doctor consults blood test results before treating a patient. In education, we need to know what students already know before we try to teach them.”

Buresch agreed.

“For us, it’s all about the learning,” Buresch said. “It’s all about using the data to help the students improve.”

New York now has so-called Value-added Growth Reporting. It asks administrators to examine each student individually instead of grouping them by grade or class.

When assessing a child's progress over time, they can compare, say, his or her progress in fourth grade to what it was in third.

The school report cards are published twice a year and are now available online. They are one tool in gauging abilities and achievement gaps when considering ethnicity, economic status, English proficiency and disabilities.

Over the years, each of Batavia’s schools have been named among the high-achieving, gap-closing schools.

Getting out and visiting these classrooms is something Buresch does eagerly. She says it reminds of her of the days when she was the principal of Batavia High School.

“I miss it,” she said about the daily interaction with students. “(But) it’s nice to still have an impact (as an administrator). ... I really love it, and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else."