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Batavia Area Steering Committee holds public meeting to discuss redevelopment

By Billie Owens

The Batavia Area Steering Committee invites residents to attend a public meeting to discuss the concepts and findings of four strategic sites within the redevelopment project area.

It will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m., Monday July 29 at the Board Room at Batavia City Hall.

The purpose of the redevelopment project is to revitalize underutilized, vacant, abandoned and contaminated properties.

The five strategic sites are:

Event Date and Time
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Kids in summer rec program collecting cans and bottles to benefit ARC youth programs

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The City of Batavia Summer Recreation Program is well under way and entering the third week of the six-week program. Each year the program sponsors a Community Service Day for all of the children to volunteer and give something back to their community.

This year’s Community Service Project is scheduled for July 23 at all of the parks. There will be a community-wide can/bottle drive to raise money for youth programs at the Genesee ARC.

If you would like to contribute to this worthy cause, please feel free to deliver cans and bottles to any of the parks (Farrall, John Kennedy, Lambert, Williams, Woodward) on or before July 23 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Or you can take cans or bottles to the Batavia Youth Bureau located at 12 MacArthur Drive and program sponsors will make sure the donations are delivered to the parks.

Each park will also visit homes in their park’s neighborhoods on July 23 to solicit cans/bottles for the drive.

If you have any questions or would like to help in any way, please call the Youth Bureau at 345-6420. Thank you for your anticipated assistance and support!

Toni Funke

Program Coordinator

345-6421

Adult Flag Football Tournanment to be held at Kibbe Park

By Billie Owens

The inaugural T.F. Brown's & Venue Entertainment Adult Flag Football Tournament will take place starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, at Kibbe Park.

The park is located at the end of Kibbe Avenue, on the south side of Oakfield Avenue in the City of Batavia.

There is a $200 entry fee, 10 teams max, double elimination tournament. There can be up to 15 players on a team.

Cash payout to First Place. Award ceremony and food after championship game at T.F. Brown's, on Main Street Downtown.

Meeting and draw will be held at T.F. Brown's on Thursday July 25th, at 8 p.m.

If you have any questions contact Tony at 585-356-0725, or e-mail   coachtray44@yahoo.com

Batavia student makes the dean's list at Ithaca College

By Billie Owens

Melanie Case, a resident of Batavia and a Music Education major in the Class of 2016, was named to the dean's list in Ithaca College's School of Music for the Spring 2013 semester.

From day one, Ithaca College prepares students for success through hands-on experience with internships, research and study abroad. Its integrative curriculum builds bridges across disciplines and uniquely blends liberal arts and professional study. Located in New York's Finger Lakes region, the College is home to 6,100 undergraduate and 400 graduate students.
 

Car wreck at Macomber and Town Line roads

By Billie Owens

A motor-vehicle accident with injuries is reported at Macomber and Town Line roads. Alabama Fire Department and Mercy medics are responding.

UPDATE 12:56 p.m.: Neck and head injuries are reported.

UPDATE 1:02 p.m.: Two vehicles involved, both requiring flatbed tows. The accident is blocking traffic.

UPDATE 1:22 p.m.: A female is being transported to UMMC with head and neck pain. She was riding in the middle of the cab of a pickup truck and struck her head on the rear window when the accident occurred.

UPDATE: Photos submitted by Melissa Sumeriski.

Four males in van with Maryland plates allegedly involved in two altercations in Batavia

By Billie Owens

Four black males in a 1999 Plymouth van with Maryland plates were reportedly involved in an altercation in the parking lot of the Best Western Crown Inn & Suites on Park Road in Batavia. Soon thereafter, the same people in the same van were reportedly involved in another altercation outside the Kwik Fill at the corner of Jackson and Ellicott streets in the city.

The van and its occupants have left the scene and law enforcement is trying to locate them.

Tree down, blocking traffic on Oak Orchard Road, Elba

By Billie Owens

A fallen tree is blocking traffic at 6198 Oak Orchard Road, near Watson, in Elba. The southbound lane is completely blocked and the northbound lane is partially blocked, though traffic can manuever around it. A Sheriff's deputy is on scene and a road crew is notified of the situation.

UPDATE 8:16 p.m.: The deputy and a Good Samaritan used a chainsaw to cut up the tree trunk and remove it from the roadway. Although there is still lots of debris, the roadway is clear enough for traffic to pass.

Pomeranian on Brookville Road, Alexander, tied outside without water

By Billie Owens

A Pomeranian is reportedly tied outside to its doghouse on Brookville Road in Alexander and has no water, which is a dangerous condition in this hot weather -- 82 degrees wth a heat index of 87. An officer will be responding to check on its welfare.

UPDATE 11:09 a.m.: An animal control officer reports the dog is not outside at this time and it does have water.

Today's Deal: O'Lacy's, Bohn's, Oliver's, Adam Miller, Spirits, and more!

By Billie Owens

Spirits, 78 Lake St., Le Roy, NY. Le Roy's favorite sports bar, where fun and good food are always on tap. Come try one of our many delicious burgers that we have to offer, as well as our HUGE Bomber Sandwich, homemade chicken fingers made to order, and the all-time favorite Dumpster Plate with many choices. We deliver. We have a $20 gift certificate for $12.

Oliver's Candies, 211 W. Main St., Batavia, NY: Oliver's, a Batavia landmark, offers the finest chocolate and confections in the area. We have a $20 gift card for $12.

Blue Pearl Yoga, 200 E. Main St., Batavia, NY: Stretch your body and soul with yoga. This offer is for a discount on one private yoga session, a $60 retail value. We have a $20-off gift certificate for $10.

Center Street Smoke House, 20 Center St., Batavia, NY: Authentic Southern BBQ, from ribs to brisket with all the fixin's. We have a $20 gift card for $12.

Sweet Pea’s Cupcakery Café, 23 Jackson St., Batavia, NY. We are a full-service Cupcake Bakery and Café. Now serving soft-serve ice cream! We offer a variety of baked goods, mainly varieties of specialty and traditional scratch-made cupcakes, as well as other bakery items such as cookies and brownies. We also serve a variety of hot and cold coffee beverages. Check out our location, or place an order for parties, gatherings or any other reasons you can think of to enjoy some cupcakes. We have a $10 gift card for $6.

The Mane Attraction Salon and Spa99 Main St., Batavia, NY: offers "Affordable Luxury" in downtown Batavia. We pride ourselves in the great customer service we give to the entire family. Men, women and children are all welcome either by appointment or walk-in. We offer all hair care services including cuts, color, highlights, lowlights, perms, styling/updos, facials, leg and back waxing, Shellac Polish System, manicures and pedicures. We are the only salon in Batavia that has an airplane chair for kids' cuts! Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Dave's Ice Cream, 3872 W. Main Street Road, Batavia, NY: Dave's offers only locally purchased products, including Perry's hard ice cream in a wide variety of yummy flavors, with a wonderful assortment of toppings and homemade waffle cones. Different soft-serve flavors are offered weekly. We have a $10 gift certificate for $6.

Settler's, 353 W. Main St., Batavia, NY: Settler's has a 25-year history of serving great, affordable breakfasts, lunches and dinners to Batavians. We have a $20 gift certificate for $12.

Alex's Place, 8322 Park Road, Batavia, NY: People come from all over the region for a fine dining experience at Alex's. It's best known for its ribs, of course, but Alex's seafood is also a favorite of the restaurant's diners. We have a $25 gift certificate for $15.

Alli's Cones & Dogs, 7063 Lewiston Road, Oakfield, NY: Full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu; all-you-can-eat salad bar; ice cream served year-round; eat-in or take-out. We have a $20 gift certificate for $12.

T.F. Brown's, 214 E. Main St., Batavia, NY: T.F. Brown's is a great place for a good meal, good friends and to catch up on what's going on in the sports world. "If it happens in sports, it happens at Brown's." Stop in and check out our Jumbo Chicken Wings, Roast Beef on Weck and Friday night fish fry. The original family spaghetti sauce still adorns all of our Italian specialties. The other popular selections from our menu range from Super Salads, butcher cut Strip Loin and South of the Border items. We offer daily lunch and dinner specials as well as a full adult and children’s menu. We have a $20 gift certificate for $12.

Bohn's Restaurant, 5256 Clinton St., Batavia, NY: Fine dining in an atmosphere of casual elegance. Lunch and dinner, steak, prime rib and seafood. Ask about Bohn's catering services and banquet facility. We have a $25 gift certificate for $15.

Daphne's Restaurant, 241 Swan St., (Off Rt. 63/Ellicott St.) Batavia, NY. Daphne's is destined to become a favorite for any who enjoy something special in a dining experience. Formerly the old St. Nick's Social Club, now unrecognizable to those who used to frequent the club, Daphne's provides you with a warm, inviting atmosphere and decor, which complements the array of wonderful dishes. We offer homemade seafood and pasta dishes, meatballs that are addicting as well as large salads, hot sandwiches & homemade potato chips. Fresh desserts are prepared in our own kitchen (tiramisu has been the top seller so far). We have a $20 gift certificate for $12.

Palm Island Indoor Water Park, 8250 Park Road, Batavia, NY: The newest family fun center in Genesee County, featuring a hot tub, monsoon lagoon pool and play area, tipping buckets, water slides, arcade with 15 games and birthday party rooms. We have a pair of gift certificates worth $40 in merchandise or services for $20.

Smokin' Eagle BBQ & Brew, 9 Main St., Le Roy, NY. The kind of downhome, laid-back and comfortable place that just feels right. Open daily for lunch, dinner and drinks, this eatery and bar features a variety of eats and drinks that are outstanding. Specializing in smoked meats -- each meat is dry rubbed with a proprietary mix of seasonings, then smoked slowly in their on-site smoker for maximum flavor and tenderness. With a variety of appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, combo platters and entrées, there's always plenty of choice for even picky eaters. Great food, frosty brews and some of the best folk around call the Smokin' Eagle BBQ & Brew their favorite -- make it your favorite today! Don't forget to ask about our catering! We have a $20 gift card for $12.

Andy’s Pizzeria, 4434 Ford Road, Elba, NY: We have been in business over 30 years and offer pizza, subs and wings. Our Everyday Special: Large cheese plus 1 topping pizza, 24 wings and a 2-liter Pepsi -- Only $29 (tax included). Other places tell YOU how great their food is…. At Andy’s: WE LET OUR CUSTOMERS DO THAT FOR US! Phone is 757-6699. We have a $20 gift certificate for $12.

The Enchanted Florist, 202 E. Main St., Batavia, NY: Whether you need just the right gift or a memorial or just want to brighten your own home or workplace, The Enchanted Florist can put together just the right floral arrangement for you. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Adam Miller Toy & Bicycles, 8 Center St., Batavia, NY: Feel like a kid in a toy store again, or treat your kids to the greatest toy store they will ever see. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

Ficarella's Pizzeria, 21 Liberty St., Batavia, NY: Dine-in, drive-thru or delivery. Featuring fresh, hearth-baked pizza since 1985, plus wings, pasta and more. We have a $20 gift certificate for $12. (Good only at the Batavia location.)

O'Lacy's Irish Pub, 5 School St. Batavia, NY: In Irish pubs, it doesn't get more authentic than O'Lacy's. Be sure to try the homemade chips. We have a $25 gift certificate for $15.

Present Tense Books and Gifts, 101 Washington Ave., Batavia, NY: Whether your taste runs to local authors, the finest in fiction or nonfiction or you're looking for a unique and special gift, this charming store in a cozy Victorian house on the edge of downtown is a great place to stop and shop. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

SOLD OUT

Car crashes into tree near a house at South Spruce and Main streets in the city

By Billie Owens

A one-car accident is reported at South Spruce and Main streets in the city of Batavia. The vehicle struck a tree and is within 15 feet of a residence. City firefighters are responding along with Mercy medics. Batavia PD are on scene to help with traffic control.

UPDATE 11:20 p.m. (by Howard): Police say the driver of the car was eastbound on East Main Street when for an unknown reason, her car left the roadway and struck the curb and then drove across the front lawn of 534 E. Main St., and through the side yard on the east side of the house. The car went through the back yard and then turned northbound in the side yard on the South Spruce-side of the house. It then struck a tree and caught on fire. Both occupants were out of the car when police arrived. The driver was transported to UMMC with complaints of neck and back pain. The male passenger was unhurt. Nobody else was hurt. Police say the investigation is continuing and it's unknown if drugs or alcohol were a factor.

Top photo: Sparks and water fly as city firefighters use a radial saw to cut the hood off the car.  Second photo: Firefighters inspect the engine compartment after removing the hood. Third photo: A bike with a bent front tire that police said was ejected from the trunk of the car when the car struck the tree.

Accident with injuries on Lockport Road, near Fisher Road

By Billie Owens

A car struck a pole then careened into a field at 3684 Lockport Road, near Fisher Road. Injuries are reported. Oakfield fire is responding, along with medics and a Sheriff's deputy.

UPDATE 2:50 p.m.: An 18-year-old male is being transported to UMMC and complains of right hand pain.

Heat advisory in effect until 6 p.m.

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory which will be in effect until 6 p.m.

The heat index will be as high as 100 degrees.

If proper precautions are not taken, heat exhaustion and other heat-related symptoms could develop in those exposed to hot and humid conditions, with the young and the elderly most at risk.

A heat advisory means that a period of hot temperatures is expected. The combination of hot termperatures and high humidity create a situation in which heat-related illnesses are possible.

Drink plenty of fluids. Stay in an air-conditioned room. Stay out of the sun. Checks on neighbors and relatives.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.

Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, OSHA recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.

Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency -- call 9-1-1.

A big pile of cars is on fire at Eddy Arnold's scrap yard, Corfu

By Billie Owens

A large pile of cars is on fire at Ed Arnold Scrap Processors at 2216 Angling Road in Corfu. East Pembroke Fire Department is responding along with an engine and tanker from Corfu.

UPDATE 1:48 p.m.: Alabama Fire Department is called to respond mutual aid. Foam will be needed to fight the fire, which includes other debris such as "ground-up tires" and upholstery. An ambulance is called to provide aid to firefighters if need be.

UPDATE 1:58 p.m.: Darien, Alexander, Pembroke, Indian Falls and Town of Batavia are also called in, along with fire police to control traffic.

UPDATE 2:15 p.m.: All traffic is being shut down at Route 33 and Angling Road.

UPDATE 3:55 p.m.: Fire is knocked down. Now doing overhaul.

UPDATE 5:13 p.m.: The roads are reopened.

Court-appointed volunteer advocates for children needed

By Billie Owens

Genesee County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for Children will be holding an informational session on becoming a volunteer advocate. The session will take place in the conference room at the ARC Community Center, located at 38 Woodrow Road in Batavia from 6 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday July 30.

Attendees will be able to listen to current advocates as they tell their stories about why they chose to become a volunteer and how they've been able to help the most vulnerable children in our community. Light refreshments will also be provided.

In order to become a volunteer you must be 21 or older, have reliable transportation and be able to pass a background check. A 30-hour training, utilizing an independent study workbook is required. Genesee County CASA for Children is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization.

CASAs are assigned to abuse and neglect cases by our family court to advocate for the best interest of children. CASAs also act as mentors to children and assist both them and their families with additional community resources.

To register for the informational session or for more information about CASA, please contact  Executive Director Ashley Hausfelder at 344-2550, ext. 2331, or by e-mail at director@geneseecountycasa.org. You can also visit CASA's Web site at www.geneseecountycasa.org

Elderly driver allegedly drove eastbound on westbound 490

By Billie Owens

About 20 minutes ago, an elderly female driving a black sedan was reported to be headed eastbound on westbound I-490 around the time she passed the Bergen exit. Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center notified Monroe County law enforcement. Then it was reported that she turned around and starting heading in the correct direction, exited and got on Route 33.

A caller reported that this car was going slow -- 25 mph -- and was partially driving on the shoulder and was otherwise "all over the roadway." Sheriff's deputies located her and are speaking with her now.

GCC announces local students who made the dean's list in the spring

By Billie Owens

Genesee Community College proudly announces the following students are among 570 full- and part-time students who were named to the dean's list for the Spring 2013 semester. These students earned a quality point index of 3.50-3.74.

Alexander

John Winiecki, a full-time student

Emily Raines, a full-time student

Dayne Burroughs, a full-time student

Troy Shelnut, a full-time student

Courtney Dart, a full-time student

Basom

Kassondra Conrad, a full-time student

Batavia

Karen Odell, a part-time student

Ashley Johnson, a part-time student

Hannah Feary, a part-time student

Marcel Afice, a part-time student

Tess Garland, a part-time student

Joy Hammond, a part-time student

Cory Warner, a part-time student

Jacob Burg, a part-time student

Angela Brodie, a part-time student

Pamela Goodrich, a part-time student

Joshua Stendts, a part-time student

Paolo Hoang, a part-time student

Chelsea Gerace, a part-time student

Margery Fitzsimmons, a part-time student

Rachel Berardini, a part-time student

Monet Smith, a part-time student

Eleni Green, a part-time student

Richard Biegasiewicz, a part-time student

Natalie Lewis, a part-time student

Melissa Plath, a part-time student

Vashti Love, a part-time student

Jennifer Wagner, a part-time student

Tina Hartgrove, a part-time student

Tony Martyn, a part-time student

Janelle Larsen, a part-time student

Deirdre Viscuso, a part-time student

Kimberly Sunderland, a part-time student

Sarah Richardson, a part-time student

Alexandra Mruczek, a part-time student

William Smith, a part-time student

Jennifer Nuwer, a part-time student

Racheal Cook, a full-time student

Kari Campbell, a full-time student

Amber Sharick, a full-time student

Jamie Whitmore, a full-time student

Neil Santillan, a full-time student

Andrea Pursel, a full-time student

Robert Macklem, a full-time student

Sarah Bosa, a full-time student

Rachael Blackshear, a full-time student

Janelle Marble, a full-time student

Raychel Sanfratello, a full-time student

Theresa Warner, a full-time student

Emma Peirick, a full-time student

Rebecca Gouger, a full-time student

Robert Barnard, a full-time student

Darlene Ogozaly, a full-time student

Lindsay Mckenzie, a full-time student

Ryan Palone, a full-time student.

Abebe Mekonnen, a full-time student.

Ashlee Brisley, a full-time student

Alex Brasky, a full-time student

Lauren Stansberry, a full-time student

Jennifer Williams, a full-time student

Brianna Hofert, a full-time student

Rebecca Kruger, a full-time student

Sureda Drue, a full-time student

Bergen

Luke Stacy, a full-time student

Briana Strassner, a full-time student

Brittany Schmitt, a full-time student

Kayla Gunther, a full-time student

Jillian Sczepanski, a part-time student

Tori Robinson, a part-time student

Daniel McCarthy, a part-time student

Stacy White, a part-time student

Lana Clark, a part-time student

Autumn Piletz, a part-time student

Elizabeth Jarnot, a part-time student

Byron

Serena Hiscutt, a full-time student

Sheena Dilcher, a full-time student

Cassidy Longhini, a full-time student

Valerie Bezon, a part-time student

Jonita Warren, a part-time student

Marissa Brennan, a part-time student

Kelly DiMatteo, a part-time student

Kelsey Boyd, a part-time student

Stacy Maskell, a part-time student

Corfu

Jessica Klug, a part-time student

Robert Bucci, a part-time student

Shannon Goodman, a part-time student

Laurie Pearse, a part-time student

Theresa Reynolds, a full-time student

Dustin Pratt, a full-time student

Laura Holovics, a full-time student

Alana Norman, a full-time student

Angel Alexander,  a full-time student

Rachel Doktor,a full-time student

Darien Center

Rachel Walker, a full-time student

Ethan Reger, a full-time student

Cody Tybor, a full-time student

East Bethany

Autumn Atkinson, a part-time student

Morgan Sicheri, a part-time student

Michelle Miller, a part-time student

Elba

Samantha Reed, a full-time student

Kimberly O'Halloran, a full-time student

Le Roy

Rebecca Spezzano, a part-time student

Joeylyn Berl, a part-time student

Jeremy Tiede, a part-time student

Jacob Sullivan, a part-time student

Melissa Saunders, a part-time student

Mark McAvoy, a part-time student

Jennifer Beherns, a part-time student

Eric Hayes, a part-time student

Michele Rast, a full-time student

Debra McKnight, a full-time student

Ashley Russo, a full-time student

Brenda Sheflin, a full-time student

Kristi Miller, a full-time student

Alan Worthington, a full-time student

Shelbi O'Geen, a full-time student

Doane McCulley, a full-time student

Oakfield

Tammy Morgan, a part-time student

Della Balduf, a part-time student

Lindsay Chatt, a part-time student

Barry McCracken, a part-time student

Christian Parker, a full-time student

Jennifer Harris, a full-time student

Lisa Clark, a full-time student

Pavilion

Lydia Zwierzynski, a part-time student

Emilie Bouchard, a part-time student

Peter Sherman, a part-time student

Jason Everett, a part-time student

Crystal Baggatta, a part-time student

Jennifer Wright, a full-time student

Tim VonSanden, a full-time student

Taylor Lafferty, a full-time student

Anthony Misisco, a full-time student

Maxwell Sallade, a full-time student

Brian DeFisher, a full-time student

Stafford

Jennifer Cone, a full-time student

Katrina Kretschmer, a part-time student

Mark Williams, a part-time student

South Byron

Halle Davalos, a part-time student

Genesee Community College offers more than 60 academic programs and certificates, including a new Supply Chain Management concentration available exclusively through the College's eLearning programs this fall. GCC also offers the region's only Polysomnographic (Sleep) Technology Program, as well as highly regarded programs in Digital Arts and Office Technology and Support. College housing is available at College Village, just a three-minute walk from the Batavia Campus. With small class sizes and state-of-the-art technology both inside and outside of the classroom, Genesee Community College is known for being 'high-tech' and 'high-touch.'

Fall classes begin Aug. 26. For further information go to: www.genesee.edu.

Police searching for alleged shoplifter of Tops in Le Roy

By Billie Owens

A suspected shoplifter at Tops Market in Le Roy is being sought by police after allegedly leaving the store with a cart chock full of stuff. He is described as a skinny white male about 6-feet tall with bad teeth wearing blue shorts and a blue shirt. A witness at the store said he saw the man flee on foot down a trail by the store.

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