A bicyclist has reportedly been hit by a car on West Main Street, Batavia, between Bogue and Woodrow.
City Fire and Mercy EMS dispatched.
UPDATE 2:09 p.m. by Joanne Beck: The patient was initially unconscious, but came to and is being examined by Mercy EMS and is likely going to be transported to a local hospital with minor injuries.
A Town of Batavia resident and business owner reiterated his objections Tuesday night to a proposed Genesee Biogas plant earmarked for the Genesee Valley Agri-Business Park but, once again, project developers attempted to alleviate his concerns over the smell of its emissions.
Speaking at the Batavia Town Planning Board meeting at the Town Hall on West Main Street Road, Eric Biscaro questioned Lauren Toretta, president of CH4 Biogas, and Sara Gilbert of Pinewood Engineering, about the extent of the odor from the facility, which is set to be constructed on Ag Park Drive, not far away from Ellicott Street Road.
“If you go by O-AT-KA (Milk Products Cooperative) on lots of given days, the odor there is enough to … it’s bad,” Biscaro said. “So, it’s seems that it would be more intense at your place if you’re going to bring it over from O-AT-KA and (HP) Hood and Upstate (Niagara Cooperative). If you’re going to be worse than O-AT-KA, then I’m going to tell you that I’m going 100 percent against this.”
Biscaro mentioned his neighbors on Ellicott Street Road and also those on Shepard Road when he added, “We really don’t want you to do that to us.”
The scene mirrored what played out six months ago when Biscaro, as a member of the Genesee County Planning Board, voiced his opposition to the digester based on the potential odor.
Last night, as was the case in May, Gilbert and Toretta, responded by stating that measures are in place to mitigate the smell as the digester handles sanitary waste primarily from the three Ag Park enterprises.
Gilbert said the digester storage tanks feature a process that is “entirely enclosed,” unlike the system at O-AT-KA that has open air containers where “odors can get into the air and get wind dispersed.”
“It is an enclosed process, it has odor filtration, and we also have an odor mitigation plan that we’ve started to prepare if there’s a breakdown in the process; a way to identify it and rectify it,” she said.
Toretta called the digester, which was first proposed about nine years ago, a “next level” project and a “landmark facility” that comes with numerous technological advances.
Biscaro then brought up the placement of the facility and wondered why it couldn’t be shifted further north on Ag Park Drive, closer to HP Hood and Upstate and farther away from people’s homes.
“This is the parcel that the Ag Park asked us to be on,” Toretta replied, noting that Hood is planning an expansion and has use for more of its property. “We also oriented the site as far from the road as possible, up against the tree line …”
Prior to Biscaro’s comments, Gilbert updated planners on the project, emphasizing that waste from the food processing plants will be shipped to lagoons approved by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and not to the City of Batavia wastewater treatment plant.
She said the waste is deemed by the DEC as “good material for fertilizer.”
Gilbert addressed other key points such as making sure the project aligns with federal requirements concerning environmental impact, stormwater treatment, water usage, truck traffic and wildlife protection.
She noted that county planners have recommended approval of a height variance for the storage tanks, and that the next step is to return to the Town Planning Board to take on the State Environmental Quality Review process.
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With no winner of the Pick-5 last Saturday (Nov. 18), there is a carryover of $3,035 for that wager on Wednesday (Nov. 22) and Batavia Downs will be offering a $10,000 guaranteed Pick-5 pool. This is part of the United States Trotting Association’s Strategic Wagering Program and free program pages courtesy of Trackmaster will be available on the USTA’s website under the Handicapping/Strategic Wagering links.
The Pick-5 wager begins in race one and runs through race five. It is a 50-cent base wager and if all five winners aren’t selected, the pool will be carried over to the Pick-5 wager on the next day of racing.
Free full card program pages for Wednesday and every live racing night at Batavia Downs can also be downloaded at bataviadownsgaming.com under the live racing tab and you can watch all the action free and live on the track’s YouTube Channel.
Post time for the first race on Wednesday is 6 p.m.
Photo of Kathleen Klaiber courtesy of genesee.edu.
It is with immense joy and pride that we announce GCC Professor of ESL and English Kathleen Klaiber as the recipient of this year's New York State TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) College ESOL Professor of the Year Award.
Kathleen Klaiber has been honored as the College ESOL Professor of the Year. She has had a distinguished career marked by excellence along the way. Professor Klaiber is a two-time recipient of the SUNY Chancellor Awards for Excellence in Teaching and Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities.
In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, Professor Klaiber exhibited exceptional resilience and innovation. Recognizing the diverse needs of students scattered across the globe in six different time zones, she devised the FLEXESOL Approach to Teaching in the High Flex Modality. This groundbreaking initiative showcased her dedication to ensuring a seamless educational experience for students worldwide.
Beyond her individual accomplishments, Professor Klaiber stands out as an active and motivating professional within the NYSTESOL and academic communities. Her unwavering support has significantly enhanced communication and interactions among NYSTESOL members and practitioners.
The New York State TESOL (NYSTESOL) organization proudly advocates, advances, and enriches TESOL education and professionalism throughout the state. Comprising professionals committed to the education of English language learners at all levels, NYSTESOL focuses on classroom practices, research, program and curriculum development, employment, funding, and legislation.
Kathleen Kleiber's recognition as the State TESOL College ESOL Professor of the Year reaffirms her commitment to excellence and innovation in TESOL education. Her impact extends beyond the classroom, shaping the future of language education in New York State and beyond.
For more information contact Vice President, Development and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu.
2023 File Photo of Genesee County Manager Matt Landers during this year's budget hearing. The county Legislature adopted the final $183 million budget Monday, which included an increase of $20 million in expenses from 2023 and a property tax levy of $32.7 million and related $8.08 per $1,000 assessed tax rate. The Legislature also ratified a CSEA contract to be worth about $1.56 million in 2024.
Both Genesee County Manager Matt Landers and Legislature Chairwoman Shelley Stein were happy that a contract was approved with the Civil Service Employees Association Monday, both said during the Legislature’s meeting at the Old County Courthouse.
Negotiations ended with legislators approving increases of $1 plus 5 percent for 2024, 4 percent for 2025 and 3 percent for 2026 for the CSEA general unit, Local 819 Union.
“I’m really proud of not getting ourselves into a long, protracted, drawn-out battle,” Landers said.
The county legislators agreed to a three-year contract to begin Jan. 1, 2024, and run through Dec. 31, 2026. It will have an approximate cumulative budget impact of $1.23 million, with a FICA cost of $99,000, and retirement of $203,000, for a total of $1.56 million for 2024.
“We are grateful for the staff that provides the public service here,” Stein said.
Just in time for Thanksgiving, she was thankful to “put this contract to bed and move forward,” Stein said.
In other salary-related action, the Legislature set a hearing for a proposed local law regarding the salaries and increases of elected county officials, as listed below.
Landers said each salary has been increased based on a 2.5 percent cost of living adjustment (COLA) and other varied reasons. The original salary and reason for the increase are listed next to the proposed new salary.
Commissioner of Elections - $52,966, combined with COLA, longevity pay of $800 and a step increase, would be - $55,741 ($2,775 more)
Human Resources Director - $101,565, combined with COLA, longevity pay of $1,000 and a grade adjustment, would be - $113,980 ($12,415 more)
Commissioner of Social Services - $94,325, also with COLA, an increase in longevity pay of $800, and a multiple-step increase, would be $108,624 ($14,299 more)
Treasurer - $110,639, combined with COLA, and an increase in longevity pay of $1,400, would be - $114,780 ($4,141 more)
Sheriff - $116,121, combined with COLA, and an increase in longevity pay of $1,400, would be - $120,399 ($4,278 more)
Highway Superintendent - $127,922, with COLA, an increase in longevity pay of $1,400, would be - $132,495 ($4,573 more).
The public hearing will be at 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 13 at the Old County Courthouse, 7 Main St., Batavia.
Members of the Anna Ingalsbe Lovell DAR Chapter have continued their holiday tradition of honoring residents of the Batavia VA. Cindy M. Baker, Center for Development and Civic Engagement Specialist, met with Robin Laney Ettinger and Pam Ware to accept this year’s gifts of TOPS gift cards, flatware, and snacks.
Twelve families in Batavia will likely have a more filling and flavorful Thanksgiving than might otherwise have been possible, thanks to the students at John Kennedy Intermediate School, City Fire, and Batavia PD.
The students packed Thanksgiving dinner prep kits to be delivered by Batavia PD to the selected families.
Firefighters delivered turkeys and all the fixings for a complete holiday dinner.
Jim Morrill Jr. put on a driving clinic at Batavia Downs Saturday night (Nov. 18) winning nine of the 13 races on the card. Morrill’s run included a natural hat trick in races two through four, a natural grand slam in races seven through 10 and victories in both feature races. Morrill also had one third and posted an unbelievable .778 UDR for the night.
Morrill broke his own single night win record of eight that he set back in 2005 at Batavia and was tied a year later by John Cummings Jr.
Morrill won the $15,000 Open I Handicap trot with E Street, who ran his own personal win streak to four. E Street sat in the pocket behind Crazy Ritz (Jim McNeight Jr.) through quarters of :28.4, :59.3 and 1:29, and then continued to follow until the top of the stretch. It was there Morrill dipped into the passing lane and let E Street sprint to the line with no urging to win in 1:58.2.
E Street ($3.70) is owned by Elite harness Racing and trained by Rachelle Mungillo.
Morrill’s other feature win was with Venier Hanover in the $15,000 Open I Handicap pace. Morrill put Venier Hanover on the point and dominated the field from there. After getting to the half in :56.3 with Parmesan N (Austin Sorrie) and Stranger Things (Jim McNeight Jr.) trying to keep pace, Morrill gave Venier Hanover his head and scorched a :27.3 third panel that put four lengths between him and the rest of the group. Venier Hanover then rounded the last turn and scooted home, wrapped up in 1:54.3.
It was the 52nd career win for Venier Hanover ($4.50) who is owned by Monique Cohen and trained by Shawn McDonough.
Morrill completed his nonagon with BJ’s Smitty (1:58.3, $14.00), Virgil N (1:54.1, $4.70), Play The Field (1:56.2, $5.50), Prairie Panther (1:55.4, $2.70), Credit List (1:58.2, $3.60) Rebellious (1:56.2, $2.20) -- who registered his 70th lifetime win -- and Vulcan Star N (1:54.4, $9.80).
Morrill started the night as the leading driver at the current Batavia meet with 147 wins, but just four ahead of Kevin Cummings (143). Now Morrill has a double-digit lead after the dust settled Saturday as he now has 156 wins to Cummings 145 (Cummings won two races as well).
Morrill also started the night with the second-highest UDR among all drivers in North America with a .436, just .001 behind J. Brandon Campbell (.437). Morrill may move into first place after Campbell registered a win and two seconds (.704 UDR for the night) in three starts at the Century Mile today in Edmonton, Alberta.
Mike Deters was the top trainer at Batavia on Saturday with three winners, all driven by Morrill.
Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Wednesday (Nov. 22) at 6 p.m. and there will be a $2,113 carryover in the Jackpot Hi-5 pentafecta wager in race 13.
Free full past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.
Photo from GCC's 42nd fashion show in May 2023 by Nick Serrata.
Press Release:
Genesee Community College's Fashion Business Program is thrilled to announce the theme for its highly anticipated annual fashion show, scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024, at 6 p.m. The event will take place at the Richard C. Call Arena, promising an unforgettable evening that pays homage to the timeless connection between cinema and fashion.
In a world where streaming services have reshaped the way we consume entertainment, "A Night at the Cinema" aims to revive the enchantment of a bygone era when movie theaters were the epicenter of cinematic magic. The theme celebrates the profound influence that movies have had on the world of fashion and invites attendees to relive the nostalgia of a night out at the theaters.
"Movies have been a constant source of inspiration for the fashion industry, shaping trends and influencing style for decades. However, with the rise of streaming services, the communal experience of going to a movie theater has somewhat diminished," said Laura Taylor, Assistant Professor of Fashion Business and Merchandising. "With 'A Night at the Cinema,' we seek to recreate the joy of watching a film on the big screen and the shared experience of being in a movie theater with loved ones."
The fashion show aims to transport attendees to a world where the silver screen reigns supreme, evoking the magical ambiance of classic cinemas. Attendees can expect to witness a collection of stunning designs that capture the essence of iconic movie moments.
"Our goal is to create an atmosphere that not only showcases the fusion of fashion and film but also reignites the love for the cinematic experience. Movie theaters provide a unique space for shared adventures, and it's time for us to embrace that communal spirit once again," added student Peter Wybron.
Join us on May 4, 2024, at 6 p.m. at the Richard C. Call Arena for "A Night at the Cinema," where fashion and film collide for a night of elegance, nostalgia, and shared cinematic adventure. For ticket information, please email fashionshow@genesee.edu.
For more information contact Vice President, Development and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email: jmjohnston@genesee.edu.
Photo of Louie The Lilac courtesy of Wendy J. Lowery.
It’s been seven weeks since Louie The Lilac had her picture taken at Batavia Downs, but that all changed on Wednesday night (Nov. 15) after she easily handled a group of mid-level conditioned mares in the $11,500 feature race.
Kevin Cummings got away fifth with Louie The Lilac as Isla Seelster (Drew Monti) led at the half in :58.1. Bet I’m Lucky (Jim McNeight Jr.) pulled first-over at that station and was followed closely by Louie The Lilac. Bet I’m Lucky grabbed the lead at three-quarters but Louie The Lilac was next in line for the top and took it midway through the last turn. From there, Louie The Lilac paced away to a 3-¼ length victory in 1:55.2.
It was the eighth win of the year for Louie The Lilac ($2.60) and owner Mike Torcello. Sam Smith trains the winner.
Kevin Cummings and Dave McNeight III were the top drivers on Wednesday with three wins each while Sam Smith, Dave Russo and Shawn McDonough all registered two training wins apiece.
Live racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Saturday (Nov. 18) at 6:00 p.m. and there will be a $1,559 carryover in the Jackpot Hi-5 pentafecta wager in race 13.
Free full past performance programs for every live card of racing at Batavia can always be downloaded at the Downs’ website (bataviadownsgaming.com) under the “Live Racing” tab and all the racing action can be viewed as it happens for free at the Batavia Downs Live Facebook page.
A two-vehicle accident has slowed traffic in one lane of westbound traffic of West Main Street, Batavia Friday afternoon. The accident is just past the Oak Street intersection.
There is no information on injuries. Batavia Police Department has arrived on scene.
A 39-year-old woman was injured this morning after her 2018 Toyota left the roadway on Oak Orchard Road near Federal Drive and struck a utility pole, causing the vehicle to overturn.
The woman was the sole occupant of the vehicle. She was ejected from the vehicle. The State Police have not released her name or where she is from.
The woman was flown to Strong Memorial Hospital by Mercy Flight for treatment of serious injuries.
NYSP says this is an ongoing investigation.
Town of Batavia Fire and Mercy EMS assisted at the scene.
Northgate Church hosted a Veterans Appreciation Evening on Thursday, which was attended by more than 40 people, including couple of dozen local veterans.
A vehicle has reportedly rolled over multiple times in the area of 8103 Oak Orchard Road, Batavia, and a person was ejected from the vehicle.
The location is between Federal Drive and the Thruway.
Mercy Flight requested to the scene. The landing zone will be near Call Parkway.
Town of Batavia Fire and Mercy EMS dispatched.
UPDATE 9:27 a.m.: It appears that a grey hatchback was northbound on Route 98 and left the roadway a few feet north of the driveway to the RRH medical facility. It struck a mailbox and, further down, a Route 98 sign. It rolled over multiple times, sustaining significant damage, before coming to rest at the end of a field on its wheels. A female occupant was ejected from the vehicle and flown by Mercy Flight to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. The Batavian will have more information and pictures from the scene once the State Police release additional details.
(name redacted upon request), 21, of Buffalo, is charged with grand larceny 4th. xxxx was arrested on Nov. 1 following an investigation into an assault that occurred on Nov. 1 on Law Street, Batavia. xxxx is accused of stealing property from another person during the incident. She was arraigned in City Court and released under supervision.
Jennifer M. Shaffer, 41, of Batavia, is charged with aggravated driving while ability impaired by drugs (Leandra’s Law). Shaffer was stopped on Nov. 7 by a Batavia patrol officer at an undisclosed location. She is accused of driving while impaired by drugs with a child in the car. She was issued traffic tickets. PUBLISHER'S NOTE: There are two women with children in Batavia named Jennifer Shaffer. Only one of the two was arrested.
Jennifer M. Shaffer
Kathleen M. Zemke, 58, of Perry, is charged with DWI. Zemke was arrested by Batavia PD following a complaint from her employer that she had shown up to work intoxicated. She was issued traffic tickets.
Phillip P. Heale, 45, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Heale is accused of hitting another person in the face during a fight on Nov. 6 on East Main Street. He was issued an appearance ticket.
Dean D. Root, 42, of Batavia, is charged with driving while ability impaired by alcohol and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Root was stopped by a Batavia patrol officer on Oct. 18 at an undisclosed location. He was issued traffic tickets.
Aaron R. Hatfield, 39, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant (jurisdiction not provided). Hatfield was initially arrested on Aug. 14, accused of petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th after allegedly stealing merchandise from Tops. He was issued an appearance ticket but failed to appear in court. A warrant was issued on Sept. 26. He was arrested on the warrant on Oct. 6. He was arraigned and released. He again failed to appear in court, and another warrant was issued on Oct. 19. He was arrested on Nov. 3 and arraigned in CAP Court. He was released and is due back in court at a later date.
Caitlyn A. Heidenreich, 26, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Heidenreich was charged following a traffic accident reported on Harvester Avenue at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 2. Heidenreich was allegedly operating a motor vehicle that crashed into a parked car. He was issued traffic tickets and released.
Zachary D. Kaczor, 29, of Buffalo, is charged with aggravated DWI. Kaczor was stopped by a Batavia patrol officer at an undisclosed time on Oct. 29 on Ellicott Avenue, Batavia. He was issued traffic tickets.
Patricia M. Anderson, 38, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant (jurisdiction not provided). Anderson was initially arrested on April 9 and charged with petit larceny, after allegedly stealing merchandise from 7-Eleven. She was issued an appearance ticket, but allegedly failed to appear. A warrant was issued on May 16. She was arrested on the warrant on Aug. 9. She was arraigned and released. She again failed to appear, and another warrant was issued on Oct. 10. She was arrested on Oct. 30 and was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $2,500 cash bail, $5,000 bond, and $10,000 partially secured bond.
