Skip to main content

batavia

City's Bureau of Maintenance announces road closures next week for resurfacing

By Billie Owens

From the city's Bureau of Maintenance:

  • Residents & Property Owners of Clinton Park, Fordham Drive, Eugene Street and Holmes Avenue -- Resurfacing

 Clinton Park, Fordham Drive, Eugene Street and Holmes Avenue will have road closures to all through traffic on Tuesday, June 11 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the installation of an intermediate reinforced pavement layer.

On Thursday, June 13 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. these streets will be closed to all through traffic for the installation of the wearing surface layer.

Residents of Clinton Park, Fordham Drive, Eugene Street and Holmes Avenue will be able to access their properties but may experience delays as paving operations progress up and down the streets.

All residents within the work area are asked not to park on the roadway during the day.

This is weather dependent work. If work is postponed it shall progress next work day. Please, plan accordingly and contact the Bureau of Maintenance with any questions. Thank you for your cooperation in advance.

  • Residents & Property Owners of Naramore Drive – Resurfacing

Naramore Drive will have road closure to all through traffic on Monday, June 10 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the installation of an intermediate reinforced pavement layer.

On Wednesday, June 12 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Naramore Drive will be closed to all through traffic for the installation of the wearing surface layer.

Residents of Naramore Drive will be able to access their properties but may experience delays as paving operations progress up and down the street.

All residents within the work area are asked not to park on the roadway during the day. This is weather dependent work. If work is postponed it shall progress next work day. Please, plan accordingly and contact the Bureau of Maintenance with any questions. Thank you for your cooperation in advance.

Tony Palmer named 2019 Italian-American honoree of the Paolo Busti Cultural Foundation

By Billie Owens

Photo and information from the Paolo Busti Cultural Foundation.

Anthony (Tony) Palmer is this year's Italian-American honoree selected by the Paolo Busti Cultural Foundation.

He will be feted at the foundation's Annual Scholarship Dinner at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 12th, at Terry Hills Restaurant in Batavia.

One of eight student scholarship candidates will also be chosen.

The family of Vincent Gautieri, also offers a scholarship for members of the Foundation, from Genesee County and outside the County.

Tickets for the dinner are $30 and available from Foundation board members, Ben's Appliances, Kitchens and Bath, and VJ Gautieri Constructors Inc., located at 45 Liberty St. in the City of Batavia.

About Anthony Palmer -- 2019 honoree of the Paolo Busti Cultural Foundation

Anthony (Tony) Palmer was born in1935, in an old Italian neighborhood, in New York City.

He is the son of George and Angelina Ambroselli Palmer. He is proud to say he is 100-percent Italian!

He moved to Olean at 7 years old where he attended school, and later graduated from St. Bonaventure University.

From 1954-1957 he admirably served his country in Far East Korea.

Two years later he married the love of his life, Margaret Cruess. Together they raised an amazing nine children: Theresa, Angela ,Joe, Ann, Mary, Eileen, Dan, Katie, and Ryan. They have 22 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

To say he is a family man is certainly an understatement! He and his wife have spent countless hours watching and volunteering at school events, sports events and, most importantly, their Catholic Church.

In 1966, Tony and his family moved to Batavia. He worked at Graham Manufacturing until his retirement in 2001.

He embraced the community and was a familiar face at numerous events and fundraisers. He credits his strong work ethic and willingness to help others, to his roots growing up as an Italian-American.

Tony has been an avid supporter of St. Joseph School and Notre Dame High School. He was past president of both schools, and ran ND Bingo for many, many years. He was inducted in Notre Dame Hall of Fame in 2001.

He has been a volunteer at the VA Hospital for an amazing 40 years. He is an Election Inspector for Genesee County.

He is a member of St. Nick’s Club, Right to Life, and St. Vincent DePaul. He is an active member of St. Mary’s Parish, where he is a Eucharistic Minister.

Tony is an excellent role model to young and old. He possess all the qualities to be awarded the Paolo Busti Cultural Foundations 2019 “Outstanding Italian American.”

To read about this year's eight scholarship candidates, click here.

Here's this summer's lineup for the free Jackson Square Concert Series

By Billie Owens

Here's the lineup for this year's Jackson Square Concert Series in Downtown Batavia.

Free, live music performances will be from 7 to 9 p.m. on Fridays in Jackson Square, located between Center and Jackson streets.

June 21 -- Genesee Ted (classic rock)

June 28 -- Skycats (classic rock party)

July 5 -- It's My Party ('60s music)

July 7 -- The Ramble (music festival)

July 12 -- Old Hippies (acoustic & orginal)

July 19 -- Red Creek (party rock)

July 26 -- Mitty & The Followers (Motown)

Aug. 2 -- OHMS Band (classic rock)

Aug. 9 -- Ghost Riders (hardcore country)

The free concert series, brought to you by the Downtown Batavia Business Improvement District (BID), is made possible by these sponsors:

  • M&T Bank
  • Erdman Anthony
  • Turnbull Inc. Heating & Air Conditioning
  • T.F. Brown's Restaurant
  • Tompkins Bank of Castile/Insurance Agencies/Financial Advisors
  • Western NY Concrete
  • Dan's Tire & Auto
  • L&L Transmissions Inc.

Free fishing derby for kids and teens up to 16 is June 29 at DeWitt Recreation Area

By Billie Owens

Press release:

East Bethany – Join the Genesee County Parks along with the Oakfield-Alabama Lions Club and try out fishing at DeWitt Recreation Area from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 29th.

Kids up to age 16 can join the fun and get the chance to win a prize with the Kendra Haacke Memorial Fishing Derby, sponsored by the Oakfield-Alabama Lions Club. Prize includes fishing gear donated by Cabela’s of Cheektowaga.

No fishing license required, this is part of the NYSDEC’s Free Fishing Weekend. Perfect for beginners!

Program meets at Pavilion 3. Friendly guides will be on hand to assist you.

Fishing gear provided or bring your own. Bait provided through a generous donation by Walmart of Batavia.

Call 585-344-1122 register or walk-ins also welcome.

For more information visit the parks' website here, or contact Shannon Lyaski at Shannon.Lyaski@co.genesee.ny.us or (585) 344-1122.

Video: Habitat for Humanity dedicates remodeled home on East Main Street, Batavia

By Howard B. Owens

 

Video Sponsor
.pane-node-body img {background: none !important; border: 0 !important; margin: 0 !important; padding: unset !important; padding-left: 1px !important } broadstreet.zone(69076)

 

Habitat for Humanity, with new homeowner Lisa Paul-Kahn and her daughter Zahara, dedicated their 22nd home project in Genesee County. This one is on East Main Street, Batavia.

The house was donated by Susan Blackburn and Bill Baskin in the memory of a former employee, Jayson Dersham, who died in an automobile accident in February 2017.

Sponsored post: Dolce Panepinto: Frequently asked workers' compensation questions

By Lisa Ace


Commonly Asked Workers’ Compensation Questions:
Q. What is a Workers’ Compensation claim?
A. A Workers’ Compensation claim is a legal action that occurs when you get hurt during the course of your employment. In New York State you cannot sue your employer. When you get hurt at work, the Workers’ Compensation system provides for lost time financial payments and medical treatment required as a result of your work-related injury.

Q. How do I know if I have a Workers’ Compensation claim?
A. If you sustain an injury during the course of your employment, you should contact our office for a free case evaluation as soon as possible. We can help you determine if you have a Workers’ Compensation claim and assist you in filing the proper paperwork.

Q. How long do I have to file a Workers’ Compensation claim?
A. You are required to report your injury to your employer within 30 days. There is also a two-year time limit to file a claim with the Workers’ Compensation Board. Failure to adhere to these time limits can result in a denial of your claim.

Q. Is a Workers’ Compensation claim my only recourse if I am hurt at work?
A. In New York State, you cannot sue your employer. In some circumstances, a personal injury lawsuit can be filed in addition to a Workers’ Compensation claim. This includes, but is not limited to, injuries sustained in a work-related motor vehicle accident, constructions injuries, or injuries sustained at a location not owned by your employer. Our team of attorneys at Dolce Panepinto will assess your claim to ensure that every legal avenue available to you is pursued.

Q. How much does a Workers’ Compensation Attorney cost? 
A. Workers’ Compensation fees are generated on a contingent basis. This means that we only receive payment if we generate money in connection with your Workers’ Compensation claim. More information on contingent fees can be found here. Additionally, our attorneys can explain our attorney fees in greater detail.

Q. Do I need an attorney?
A. While an attorney is not required, it is strongly recommended that you retain an attorney. The Workers’ Compensation Law is complex, confusing, and often difficult to navigate. The insurance carrier will have an attorney fighting on their behalf, we recommend that you have an attorney fighting on your behalf. Having an attorney means ensuring your rights are protected, maximizing your benefits, and making sure your questions and concerns are addressed.

Dolce Panepinto works tirelessly to protect the rights of injured workers by making sure that those responsible are held accountable. If you or a family member are injured at work, or in your private life, contact us today for a free case evaluation at 585-815-9003. For further questions regarding Worker's Compensation Law or to contact Dolce Panepinto: click here.

Citizen assists officer in struggle with suspect who allegedly pulled weapon from his pocket

By Howard B. Owens
      Brandon Fogg

A local citizen came to the aid of a Batavia police officer who was attempting to apprehend a criminal suspect when the suspect pulled a handgun -- it turned out to be a BB gun -- from his pocket during the struggle.

The citizen stepped on the suspect's wrist causing him to drop the gun.

Brandon Fogg, 32, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon, 3rd, criminal possession of a weapon, 4th, obstructing governmental administration, and trespass.

He was arraigned in City Court and ordered held without bail.

The incident began as a trespass complaint at 11:22 p.m., Tuesday, at a location on Ellicott Street.

Fogg was reportedly at a residence banging on the door against the complainant's wishes. 

Before patrols arrived, Fogg left the property. 

Officer Darryle Streeter observed Fogg in a passenger vehicle that was being driven with an illegal tire on it. 

Streeter initiated a traffic stop on Cedar Street near Ellicott Street. 

According to police, Fogg opened the car door and attempted to flee.

Streeter was able to grab Fogg and take him to the ground. Fogg allegedly fought with Streeter and during the struggle removed from his pocket what appeared to be a handgun.

At that point, an employee of a local business intervened and stepped on Fogg's wrist. When Fogg dropped the gun, Streeter was able to take him into custody.

Batavia PD did not release the name of the citizen at this time because the department has not obtained the citizen's permission to release it.

Law and Order: Three people arrested after Sunday's brawl on Pringle Avenue

By Billie Owens

Rebecca N. Mann, 30, of Pringle Avenue, Batavia, is charged with disorderly conduct. She was arrested at 5:30 p.m. on June 2 after being observed allegedly fighting with another person on Pringle Avenue. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on June 11. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Edward Robert Freida, 47, of Pringle Avenue, Batavia, is charged with disorderly conduct and public lewdness. Freida was arrested at 5:30 p.m. on June 2 after he was observed allegedly fighting with another person on Pringle Avenue. During the altercation, Freida allegedly exposed himself to several people. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $1,000 cash bail or bond. He is due to reappear in city court at a later date. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Nikayla C. Jackson, 21, of Pringle Avenue, Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and second-degree harassment. At 5:30 p.m. on June 2 on Pringle Avenue, Jackson allegedly had unwanted physical contact with a child less than 17 years of age. She was arrested and released on an appearance ticket and was due in Batavia City Court on June 4. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Matthew Lutey, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Kevin Michael Waleski, 31, of Orchard Street, Oakfield, is charged with second-degree attempted criminal trespass and second-degree harassment. At 12:17 a.m. on June 2, police responded to a West Main Street residence for a reported physical altercation in which a subject attempted to enter a residence unlawfully. A subsequent investigation resulted in Waleski's arrest. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court at 8:10 a.m. bail was set at $2,500 cash bail or bond. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Peter Flanagan. Before being taken to jail, Waleski was being transported to UMMC for medical treatment when he allegedly began to physically resist patrols. He was subsequently also charged with obstruction of governmental administration in the second degree, and that case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Ernest D. Lane, 61, of Ellicott Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt and aggravated family offense -- more than one offense within five years. Lane was arrested at 2:59 p.m. on June 4 following a complaint that he allegedly violated a complete stay away order of protection. He is accused of going to the home on Ellicott Street of protected parties. He was jailed without bail and was due in Batavia City Court this morning (June 5). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Marc Lawrence, assisted by Officer Christopher Camp. While he was being held on this case, he was issued a computerized ticket for aggravated family offense and second-degree criminal contempt. These charges stem from an incident on Ellicott Street at 8:55 p.m. on April 8. He was due in city court this morning to also answer those charges. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins.

Sponsored Post: Thermory is hiring

By Lisa Ace


Wildly creative, unorthodox company looking for unique people that are sickened by a corporate culture. If your sense of humor is nonexistent, prefer not to have fun at work, are terrified by the challenges of a company that is growing exponentially, afraid to speak up and have your opinions and ideas heard with a flexible schedule – then please, we beg you NOT to send your resume to: kevin@thermoryusa.com

Thermory USA LLC is the North American sister company of Thermory; a world leader of thermally modified wood products, utilized for exterior decking, cladding and porch flooring architectural elements. Our unrivaled thermal modification process uses only heat and steam to enhance the wood and provide a durable, long lasting product with a sophisticated, refined aesthetic. Our truly natural products have no equal, and may just change the way you think about wood. 
 
Learn more about Thermory on Facebook and Instagram: @ThermoryUSA or  www.thermoryusa.com

Video: Batavia Middle School student civil rights presentation

By Howard B. Owens
Video Sponsor
.pane-node-body img {background: none !important; border: 0 !important; margin: 0 !important; padding: unset !important; padding-left: 1px !important } broadstreet.zone(69076)
 

Students at Batavia Middle School made their annual civil rights presentations today for fellow students, teachers and parents.

Law and Order: Hart Street man accused of exposing himself to person at Batavia's Kibbe Park

By Billie Owens

Michael A. Jamil, 35, of Hart Street, Batavia, is charged with public lewdness. Following the investigation of a harassment complaint at 12:47 p.m. on May 20 at Kibbe Park, Jamil was arrested. He allegedly removed his pants while at the park, intentionally exposing his genitalia and his buttocks to another person several times while at the park. Jamil was later released on an appearance ticket and was due in Batavia City Court on May 21. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Post, assisted by Sgt. Dan Coffey.

Daniel S. Kuczka, 75, of Walden Creek Drive, Batavia, is charged with trespass. He was arrested after he returned to Richmond Memorial Library at 3 p.m. on May 29 after being advised that he was no longer welcome there because he allegedly violated the library's code of conduct. Kuczka was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on June 11. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot, assisted by Officer Kevin Czora.

Daniel H. Mooney Jr. is charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief and second-degree burglary. He was arrested after an investigation into a burglary on Jackson Street at noon on May 30. Mooney allegedly forced his way into a dwelling and damaged property while inside. He was arraigned in city court then jailed in lieu of $10,000 cash bail or bond. He was due to return to city court on May 31. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Post, assisted by Officer Miah Stevens.

Thomas L. Powers, 66, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. It is alleged that at 5:57 p.m. on May 29 that Powers struck another person in the head with a broom on East Main Street in Batavia. He was located outside his Liberty Street residence, arrested and issued an appearance ticket. He is due in Batavia City Court on June 11. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Cronmiller, assisted by Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Vincent A. Sanfratello, 53, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief -- intentionally damaging property. It is alleged that at 9:56 p.m. on May 24 on Liberty Street that he destroyed property belonging to another person. He was released on an appearance ticket and was due in city court on May 28. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Miah Stevens, assisted by Officer Jason Davis.

Miranda Lynn Goetz, 28, of Vallance Road, Le Roy, is charged with petit larceny. She is accused of stealing property from Sally Beauty Supply in Towne Center of Batavia at 7:17 p.m. on May 31. She was released on an appearance ticket and is due in Town of Batavia Court on June 13. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Mathew Clor.

Dog carving

By Sandra Ahl

Love to hear GOOD news about Batavia.  Perhaps you could include a picture of the new dog carving done by Rick Pratt at "B's" pet grooming on Ellicott Street in Batavia. I have seen you there so I know that you are familiar with it.  Thanks.

Fire in roof reported on Liberty Street in the city

By Billie Owens

Fire in a roof is reported at 20 Liberty St. in the city.

City fire is on scene and a first platoon is called to the station.

UPDATE 1:45 p.m.: Town of Batavia Fire Department is asked to provide mutual aid. The location is a welding business between Liberty and Center streets -- Strong Forge and Fabrication.

UPDATE 1:48 p.m.: Checking for extensions; doing overhaul. Town of Batavia told to go back in service.

UPDATE 1:55 p.m.: Employees are told to stay out of the building for now.

Photos below courtesy of Frank Capuano.

GCEDC to consider project incentives for two businesses on Thursday

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) will consider approving incentives for a project in the City of Batavia and accepting an application for incentives for a project in Le Roy at the board’s Thursday, June 6th, meeting.

Cedar Street Sales & Rentals (Mucher & Clark LLC) is seeking sales, mortgage and property tax exemptions to support a $165,000 project that would include the construction of a 6,000-square-foot warehouse at 52 Cedar St. Mucher & Clark LLC is seeking incentives totaling approximately $37,000.

The project supports 10 jobs and is located adjacent to a highly distressed census tract in the City of Batavia and is estimated to generate revenues of approximately $28,000 into the Batavia Pathway to Prosperity (B2P) fund over 10 years.

W&M Humphrey Associates LP is submitting an application for incentives for sales, mortgage and property tax exemptions to support a $3.1 million project in Le Roy that would expand the Munson Street facilities leased to the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership (GVEP). The expansion supports 525 full-time jobs.

W&M Humphrey Associates is seeking a $285,517 property tax exemption, a $149,610 sales tax exemption, and a $30,000 mortgage tax exemption. Since incentives total over $100,000, the GCEDC will schedule a public hearing if the board accepts the application.

The GCEDC Board meeting will take place at its offices on 99 MedTech Drive in Batavia at 4 p.m. on Thursday, June 6th. The meeting is open to the public.

Man accused of grabbing tot in church nursery Sunday identified, charged with unlawful imprisonment

By Billie Owens

Press release and photo from the Batavia Police Department:

The Batavia Police Department investigated the potential abduction of a child during church services.

On Sunday, June 2, at or about 12:31 p.m., it was reported that a white male, later identified as Bruce Sattelberg (DOB:07/03/1947) was attending church services at EverPresent Church. During the service, Sattelberg got up from where he was sitting and left the sanctuary.

About five minutes later Sattelberg returned to the sanctuary with an approximately 1-year-old child. The parents of the child were sitting in the sanctuary attending the service a few aisles away. Upon noticing Sattelberg holding the child, the father approached Sattelberg and took custody of his child. Sattelberg then vacated the service.

The Batavia Police Department worked diligently, investigating every lead to locate Sattelberg.

Sattelberg was taken in to custody without incident and was issued an appearance ticket for unlawful imprisonment in the second degree. He is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court at 1:30 p.m. on June 18.

Sattelberg has been barred from EverPresent Church and its functions.

We would like to thank the community and its citizens for all the assistance with locating Sattelberg.

The Batavia Police Department would like to remind everyone to be observant of your surroundings and contact the Batavia Police Department if you see or notice something suspicious.

The Batavia Police Department can be reached at 585-345-6350, the confidential tip line at 585-345- 6370 or online here

Video: Sights and sounds at the Jim Kelly Celebrity Golf Classic

By Howard B. Owens

 

Video Sponsor
.pane-node-body img {background: none !important; border: 0 !important; margin: 0 !important; padding: unset !important; padding-left: 1px !important } broadstreet.zone(69076)

 

Terry Hills hosted the 33rd Annual Jim Kelly Celebrity Golf Classic.  

Featured in the video, QB Josh Allen, Jim Kelly, Chris Berman, Thruman Thomas, Eric Wood, and Commissioner Roger Goodell, who makes it clear, if Buffalo taxpayers want to keep the Bills, they're going to need to pony up for a new stadium.

Drivers in morning accident in Batavia remain under evaluation at Strong

By Howard B. Owens

Distracted driving is being blamed for a two-car collision this morning that sent two people to Strong Memorial Hospital, one by Mercy Flight.

Both patients are listed as "under evaluation."

The accident was reported at 11:10 a.m. in the area of 3646 West Main Street Road, Batavia.

According to the accident report by Deputy Kevin McCarthy, the driver of a 2011 Ford sedan was eastbound on Route 5 when the driver "became distracted by moving his phone" and crossed into the westbound lane.

His vehicle struck a 2012 Chevy SUV driven by Patricia G. Bunk, 35, of Graham Road, Elba. She was transported by Mercy EMS to Strong.

The driver of the Ford sedan is identified in the report as William T. Gibbs, 63, of West Main Street Road, Corfu; however, the hospital doesn't have a patient under that name. They do have a patient under a different name who is the same age and lives at the same address as Gibbs but the hospital spokesman said he couldn't disclose the name being used by the patient. 

Gibbs was transported by Mercy Flight to Strong and was conscious at the time of transport.

That driver was cited for allegedly crossing over into traffic, driving left of centerline markings.

(Initial Report)

Possible assault reported on West Main Street, Batavia

By Howard B. Owens

A male and female physical altercation has resulted in a request for two ambulances in the area of 344 W. Main St., Batavia.

The first ambulance was requested for the female victim of an assault. The second ambulance was requested for a person having either a panic attack or seizure.

The male suspect ran from the scene and was later located near Denny's.

Authentically Local