Skip to main content

Stories from

Two-car accident on westbound Thruway

By Billie Owens

A two-car accident with at least one injury is reported on the westbound Thruway at mile marker 400.3. Pembroke and Indian Falls fire departments are responding along with Mercy EMS. The location is east of exit 77 before the turnaround.

UPDATE 12:05 p.m.: Traffic is stopped in the right-hand westbound land and is backing up. There's heavy damage to a sedan involed in the accident. A responder's vehicle was sideswiped, damage not yet determined, by an eastbound Chevy green Silverado, but he is able to continue to the scene.

UPDATE 12:07: There may possibly be a language barrier between the responders and an injured person.

UPDATE 12:52: The firefighters are back in service. The responder whose vehicle was sideswiped says there's no damage to his vehicle, but he noticed when the Silverado went passed that it had a broken side mirror.

Larry E. Strack Sr.

By Billie Owens

Larry E. Strack Sr., 63, of Fawn Ridge Road in Lake Placid, passed away Monday, March 26, 2012 at Adirondack Medical Center in Saranac Lake. He was formerly a longtime resident of Batavia.

He was born in Lake Placid on Oct. 9, 1948, to Hector Edward Strack and Dora Chabbott. He graduated from Lake Placid High School in 1968. Larry was the husband of Delia "Dede" Gonyea Strack.

He was a member of the 1980 Winter Olympic Committee, a pioneer member of the Lake Placid Volunteer Ambulance Service, past firefighter and dive team member of the Lake Placid Volunteer Fire Department. In addition, he was a member and coach of the Lake Placid Pee Wee Association, the first coach for the Genesee Amateur Hockey Association in Batavia and could be found sharing stories and a cup of coffee at Stewart's Shops with the "Coffee Club."

He worked at Adirondack Correctional Facility and retired in 1999. Prior to that, when he lived in Batavia, he worked as a corrections officer at Attica State Prison.

He was an avid outdoorsman and loved hunting, fishing, golf and bowling.

Larry is survived by his wife, Delia, of Lake Placid, and his children, William Strack and his wife Christine, of Saranac Lake; Larry E. Strack Jr. and his wife, Joanne, of Saranac Lake; Carrie Sharlow and her husband, Clay, of Dickinson Center; Alex Strack and his wife, Amanda, of Lake Placid; and Danielle Barney and her husband, Matthew, of Dannemora; one brother, Francis Strack and his wife, Debbie, of Lake Placid; one sister, Patti Wood and her husband, Larry, of Lake Placid; 15 grandchildren -- Martin, Billy, Brie, Chelsea, Corey, Matthew, Shania, Cheyenne, Dylan, Justine, Lucas, Desirae, Johnny, Jaylyne and Wyatt; three great-grandchildren -- Jakob, Madaline and Hector; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

M.B. Clark Funeral Home in Lake Placid handled the arrangements. A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated at St. Agnes Catholic Church in Lake Placid. Cremation followed. The Rev. John Yonkovig officiated. Burial will be at the convenience of the family.

The family sugggests donations in Larry's memory be made to the American Cancer Society.

Possible grass fire off Lehigh Avenue, Batavia

By Billie Owens

A possible grass fire is reported at 480 Lehigh Ave. in Batavia, "behind the water plant." City firefighters are responding.

UPDATE 2:52 p.m.: City fire is back in service.

'BigFoot Baler' is new demo at 7th annual Cool Kids! ECO-Fest on April 14

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee Community College's Earth Club, Student Activities Office, and College Village are joining forces again with Cool Kids to produce the 7th annual Cool Kids! ECO-Fest – a fun-filled, educational event that increases awareness of important environmental issues while celebrating Earth Day.

All portions of the event are free and open to the public and scheduled from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 14 at the Batavia campus. Both indoor and outdoor activities will be happening throughout the four-hour event, which winds down with the Eco-Raffle of great green prizes, including the Grand Prize -- a 21-speed mountain bike provided by Adam Miller Toy & Bicycles. (You must be present to win.)

Many of the popular eco-opportunities will be back, such as collecting residential e-waste, worn American flags, rubber sneakers, plus the Inflation Station with Sloat Tires, as well as the Wildlife Educators Coalition and a full display of worldwide artisans' work from One World Projects.

But there are also be some new green alternatives to explore and enjoy.

The largest and perhaps most dynamic new Cool Kids! ECO-Fest program in 2012 will be the live demonstrations of the "BigFoot Baler" happening on the west end of campus. This massive piece of equipment will be taking "ag plastic," which is the bale wrap, vegetable row covers, and bunk silo covers delivered by local farmers, and compacting the waste into 1,000-pound bales. These will eventually be recycled into plastic film, fencing, picnic tables, benches and other molded plastic items.

Without recycling, agricultural plastics end up buried on farms and nurseries, burned, or taking precious space in landfills. The BigFoot Baler has been made possible through NYS DEC and Cornell University's Recycling Agricultural Plastics Project (RAPP).

For scheduling efficiency in the compaction process, Conservation District Manager George Squires asks that all farmers participating in "ag plastic" recycling call the Genesee County Soil and Water Conservation District Office at 343-2362 before April 14. The BigFoot Baler requires the plastic to be free of mud and manure; soils, forage and stone should be shaken off and smaller pieces that can be handled by one person are preferred. GCC student volunteers will  assist with processing.

"Each year at Cool Kids! ECO-Fest, we try to introduce at least one major new initiative that explores the innovative facets of environmental sustainability," said Donna Rae Sutherland, Genesee's Earth Club co-advisor and associate director of Marketing Communications.

"Last year we began collecting worn American flags and demonstrating bird banding. Two years ago it was collecting rubber sneakers. This year, we welcome the BigFoot Baler! The annual Cool Kids! ECO-Fest leads the charge in helping everyone learn how they can play an important role, each and every day, in building a greener future. It's not hard. In fact it's fun and it really is 'way cool.' "

The bird-banding demonstration by Tom Klotzbach is also happening on the west side of campus near the college's Nature Trail. He is a local birding expert and researcher, as well as a GCC alumnus and employee. He is in the third year of a three-year bird-tracking project with more than 60 bird boxes located at GCC and on the western portion of the Ontario State Parkway.

The seasonal outdoor effort starts in early April when Klotzbach begins tracking various species of native and non-native birds. Through banding and biweekly nest box checks, Tom is collecting bird data such as age, sex, fat score and mass, which are used to study migration patterns with the U.S. Geological Survey.

The 7th annual Cool Kids ECO-Fest also includes more than 35 exhibits, presentations and activities, inside the college's forum and cafeteria. As in years past, hundreds of people of all ages are expected to attend the event enjoying environmental fun and educational opportunities, and the more green things they do – the more Eco-Raffle tickets they earn to increase their chances of winning the mountain bike.

Among the ways to earn Eco-Raffle tickets:

•    Donating residential e-waste or electronics such as old computers, monitors, calculators, TVs, VCRs, stereo equipment, video games, and microwave ovens (No other kitchen appliances, please.)

•    Donating paperbacks books for American troops overseas

•    Donating worn American flags for proper disposal by Sheppard, Maxwell and Hale

•    Getting your tire pressure checked by Sloat Tires Inflation Station

•    AAA mercury hood lamp switch-out (for 2002 or older cars)

•    Being an ECO-Fest volunteer

•    Wearing green

From kites to water bugs to tree saplings, eco-tips to digging fossils, treasured trash time or battery tests -- it's all free at the 7th annual Cool Kids! ECO-Fest.

Genesee Community College is also excited about two other Earth Day celebrations this spring emphasizing its commitment toward a greener future.

•    Street cleaning of R. Stephen Hawley Drive happens from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Thursday, April 12 with a post-cleaning pizza party sponsored by the college's Earth Club in the GCC cafeteria.

•    "Pillage the Village" from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 10 is the end-of-year yard sale at College Village. The event is free and open to the public, and will be located near the Village Hall at College Village, 8170 Batavia-Stafford Townline Road in Batavia.

For further information on all college events contact Donna Rae Sutherland at 343-0055, ext. 6616, or email dsutherland@genesee.edu.

For more information on Cool Kids! and the list of "allowable recyclables," call The Cool Hotline at 637-3984 or www.generationcool.biz.

For a video on recycling agricultural plastic go to:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4wYB20HhHs&feature.related

UMMC urges public to drop off needles, syringes and lancets for proper disposal

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Needles, syringes, and lancets (sharps) used in the home setting provide the potential for disease transmission if not managed properly. In an effort to address the safe disposal of these sharps, they may be dropped off at specific United Memorial service areas for proper disposal.

Waste accepted as part of the Household Sharps Program is specific to that generated as a result of self-maintenance programs involving the delivery of injectable medication and includes needles, syringes and lancets only.

All sharps brought to United Memorial for disposal are to be in a container that is rigid, puncture resistant, shatterproof, leak proof, and secured with a screw top. An old detergent bottle is ideal. It should be labeled “Biohazard-Sharps” with a black permanent marker. Containers which are judged to not provide protection against needle-stick injuries cannot be considered as adequate for the purposes of this program and personnel at collection sites will not accept them.

Properly contained sharps will be accepted at the UMMC Laboratory at the hospital, located on the first floor, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. The hospital is located at 127 North St. in the City of Batavia.

Properly contained sharps will also be accepted during routine hours of operation at the Jerome Center Outpatient Lab at 16 Bank St., Batavia; Le Roy Diagnostics, 3 Tountas Ave., Le Roy; and Pembroke Diagnostics, 860 Main St. Road, Corfu.

 

Bill Young Memorial Blood Drive at First United Methodist Church, Batavia

By Billie Owens

The American Red Cross invites you to participate in the second annual Bill Young Memorial Blood Drive at the First United Methodist Church in Batavia.

It will be held from 2 to 7 p.m. in the social hall, located at 8221 Lewiston Road.

Please call 1-800-RED-CROSS to schedule your appointment. Ask about Double Red Cell donation. Walk-ins are welcome. PLEASE BRING I.D.!

(If you donated blood on or before Feb. 21, you are again eligible to donate.)

Event Date and Time
-

Corfu student named to Colby College Deans' List

By Billie Owens

Shelby F. O'Neill, a member of the Class of 2015 at Colby College in Waterville, Maine, was named to the Deans' List for his outstanding academic achievement during the fall semester of the 2011-12 academic year.

He is the son of Philip O'Neill and MaryAnn Wiater, of Corfu, and attended Pembroke Central School.

Students whose grade point averages were 3.61 or higher were named to the Deans' List.

Founded in 1813, Colby College is the 12th-oldest independent liberal arts college in the nation. It provides a rigorous academic program that fosters transformational relationships between students and faculty. Graduates emerge as committed leaders ready to make an impact on their world. Colby is committed to making the full experience accessible to all qualified students, regardless of their ability to pay. The college enrolls 1,825 students.

Assemblyman Hawley holds public outreach meeting in Stafford Town Hall

By Billie Owens

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R, I, C – Batavia) is hosting his regular monthly outreach meeting for Genesee County residents at Stafford Town Hall from 6 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 4.

“The meeting will provide the people of Western New York with an opportunity to share their thoughts on how to improve the quality of life in our area,” Hawley said. “I strongly encourage all local citizens to attend this event.”

The hall is located at 8903 Route 237 in the Town of Stafford.

Event Date and Time
-

Report of 'thick, black smoke' near Alexander and Dodgeson roads, Alexander

By Billie Owens

Alexander Fire Department is responding to investigate a report of thick, black smoke in the area of Alexander and Dodgeson roads.

UPDATE 11:42 a.m.: The location is "the old Post Farm." The fireman on scene says "He's burning tires."

UPDATE 11:56 a.m.: The fire is out.

UPDATE 12:05 p.m.: Engine #7 is back in service. The location was determined to be 9568 Route 98.

UPDATE 12:17 p.m.: A representative of the New York Department of Environmental Conservation is now on scene to investigate the incident.

GCC's Student Activities director receives national award

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Few people, after collecting paychecks for their entire adult life, would say "I've never worked a day in my life!" but Cliff Scutella loves his job, and does not consider it work. He's the Student Activities director at Genesee Community College.

And his joy is obvious not only to those who work with him and the students to whom he is dedicated, but to his colleagues across the country who have recognized Scutella with a national award.

During the recent 2012 Association for the Promotion of Campus Activities (APCA) National Conference in Florida, Scutella was named the National Advisor of the Year.

APCA offers resources to campus activities programming departments throughout the United States, such as low-cost, high-value concerts, seminars and other entertainment programs geared toward students.

Scutella was nominated by his staff in the Student Activities Office.

"Cliff has a unique ability to bring together groups and organizations with his leadership qualities and winning personality," said Joanna Barefoot, GCC Student Activities technical specialist.

The award recognizes Scutella for his ability to empower staff and students to reach their fullest potential, and Barefoot says he does so by embracing "teachable moments."

"He takes the time to challenge a person to think problems through, consider possible solutions and work together to address the situation," she added.

For 22 years, Scutella has been a valued member of the GCC family and says, "I have a great life...I play for a living!"

His goal of providing enriching entertainment is evidenced by his bright and joyful office, which is virtually crammed full of toys and memorabilia. And his counsel is sought outside the department, as well.

"Many people throughout the college often come to Cliff for advice in solving issues that crop up in other departments," Barefoot said. "Cliff is great at thinking outside of the box, which also results in more creative and interesting programming that benefits the greatest number of people."

Scutella says "We recognize that our role at GCC is one of retention, and if we get kids connected, they will be more successful, and that is my ultimate goal."

For more information about student activities at GCC, call 345-6832, or visit this website:

http://www.genesee.edu/campuslife/students/

Oakfield student named to Deans' List at Harpur College of Arts and Sciences

By Billie Owens

Jerome P. George, of Oakfield, received academic honors from the Harpur College of Arts and Sciences at Binghamton University by making the Deans' List for the Fall 2011 semester.

Binghamton University is one of the four university centers of the State University of New York. Known for the excellence of its students, faculty, staff and programs, Binghamton enrolls close to 15,000 students in programs leading to bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees. Its flourishing NCAA Division I athletics program is a vital part of the campus community, strengthening school spirit and inspiring loyalty and pride.

Jay E. Stocking

By Billie Owens

Buffalo -- Jay E. Stocking, 48, of Buffalo, formerly of East Pembroke, passed away Thursday (March 29, 2012) at the Erie County Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family.

Jay was born May 12, 1963 in Batavia, a son of Duane Stocking and the late Diane (Kemp) Stocking.

Some of Jay's favorite pastimes were spending time with his family and being in the outdoors. He had a great talent for restoring and refurbishing things. Jay will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Jay is survived by his father, Duane Stocking, of Ocala, Fla; brother, Stephan (Bobbie) Stocking, of Corfu; nephew, Jesse (Jen) Stocking, of Corfu; niece, Casey (Mike) Graber, of Corfu, and great nieces, Emma and Hailey Graber. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Family and friends may call from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday April 1 at the C. B. Beach & Son Mortuary, Inc., 4-6 Main St., Corfu. At 4 p.m., there will be an informal service, a time of reflection and storytelling celebrating Jay's life. Burial in Hillside Cemetery, East Pembroke, will be held privately by the family.

GCC's sleep studies program awarded accreditation status

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) has voted to award accreditation status to the new Polysomnographic Technology associates degree program at Genesee Community College.

The two-year sleep studies program is the first program of its kind in New York State. It offers students the opportunity to earn an Associates of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in one of the fastest growing health concerns today, covering 84 classifications of sleep disorders from sleep apnea to insomnia to narcolepsy.

Students enrolled in the Polysomnographic Technology program take courses including Anatomy, Physiology, Sleep Study Implementation, Sleep Disorders, Environmental Chemistry and General Psychology, and two clinical practice courses in a local sleep clinic to apply the skills they've acquired in a real-world setting.

Program Director Marshann Thomas says students who earn their degrees in this program have a wide variety of career options, including working with doctors to diagnose sleep-related problems, working in sleep laboratories to provide intensive clinical observations and counseling patients on the use of breathing and other devices that help them get a good night's sleep.

"We are equipping future leaders in sleep medicine with the knowledge and skills essential to providing compassionate, quality care to patients and their families," says Thomas, who is a Registered Respiratory Care Practitioner. "PSG is a career worth dreaming about!"

The program's first eight graduates will earn their degrees in May.

Also in May, GCC will once again host a seminar by K & M Medical, Inc. The seminar offers a comprehensive review of the principles of PSG for technicians preparing for their certification exams. The two-day review includes a study manual and sample questions from the sleep boards. For more information about the seminar, visit: http://kmmed.com/docs/genesee_may2012.pdf.

There are 60 sleep clinics registered across the state, with projections of continued growth, and several GCC second-year students are currently working as sleep techs.

GCC's program was endorsed by a peer review, conducted by the Committee on Accreditation for Polysomnographic Technologist Education. Accreditation standards for the discipline are established by the CAAHEP, along with the American Association of Sleep Technologists, American Academy of Sleep Medicine and Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists.

For more information, contact Polysomnographic Technology Program Director Marshann Thomas at 343-0055, ext. 6188, or at mythomas@genesee.edu.

Information is also available by visiting GCC's website: http://www.genesee.edu/academics/programs/health/sleep/

Books Sandwiched In at Richmond library

By Billie Owens

“Books Sandwiched In” will be held at 12:10 p.m. on Wednesday, April 25 at Richmond Memorial Library, 19 Ross St., Batavia.

This is the first in the spring series of free lunchtime reviews featuring speakers from the community. Dave Whitcombe will be the first reviewer; the book will be announced. All welcome.

For more information, call the library at 343-9550, ext. 8, or log on to www.batavialibrary.org.

Event Date and Time
-

Pavilion woman will take part in Rock 'n' Roll Marathon in San Diego to benefit blood cancer patient

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Nikki Calhoun, a resident of Pavilion, announced today that she will be participating in the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon in San Diego, Calif., on June 3rd in honor of a local blood cancer patient named Mary Beth Pelkey.

Calhoun has been approached by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Western & Central New York Chapter to join their Team in Training, which the society sponsors.

Team in Training (TNT), the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s  (LLS) leading endurance sports charity training program, has reached  a remarkable milestone of raising more than $1 billion to support blood cancer research and patient services.

Since its inception in 1988, when a team of 38 runners trained together for a New York City Marathon and raised $320,000, TNT has prepared more than 440,000 people -- approximately 40,000 participants annually -- to achieve their dream of completing a marathon, half-marathon, triathlon, century bike ride or hike adventure.

The enormous success of this program has helped make possible advances in blood cancer therapies and treatments that have prolonged and enhanced the lives of hundreds of thousands of patients.

This year’s honored patient, Mary Beth Pelkey, is a mother of four who has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

“Fifteen years ago, I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s," Calhoun said. "I know what a struggle it is. I know how she feels. Whenever I feel too tired to get up and train or feel like I will never reach my fundraising goal, I remember what Mary Beth is dealing with. … It gives me motivation."

Nancy Hails, executive director of the local Leukemia & Lymphoma Society chapter, said “The Team in Training program is expected to raise approximately $500,000 this year in the Western and Central New York area to support blood cancer research and patient aid and services.”

Fundraising is a big part of the Team in Training program. When the fundraising goal is met, participants arrange to travel to their marathon site with arrangements made by the LLS. Calhoun explains that she has a goal of $3,000 to meet.

Persons interested in assisting Calhoun in reaching her goal in honor of Mary Beth Pelkey, may send a check or money order made payable to: “Leukemia & Lymphoma Society” and mail to P.O. Box 12, Pavilion, NY 14525.

You can also donate online at TeamInTraining.org. (Select Donate and search participant).

The mission of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease, and myeloma and improve the quality of life patients and their families.

If you would like to learn more about the Team In Training program, contact us at (716) 834-2578 or toll free at 1-800-784-2368. Or check out their website at www.lls.org.

Congresswoman Hochul announces opening of 2012 Congressional Art Competition

By Billie Owens

Press release:

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Kathy Hochul today announced the opening of the 2012 Congressional Art Competition for New York’s 26th Congressional District. This competition is open to all high school students across the district.

“The arts should play an important part of every child’s education, and the Congressional Art Competition is a great way to encourage student creativity,” Congresswoman Hochul said. “We have some of the most imaginative and talented students in Western New York, and I cannot wait to see the amazing works of art they submit for the competition.”

The Congressional Art Competition, now in its 30th year, was organized to recognize and encourage artistic talent in each congressional district across the nation. High school students in each district are encouraged to submit original artwork – photographs, oil, watercolor, and mixed-media works are all permitted. The winning painting from each district will be hung in the halls of the U.S. Capitol for the following year.

All artwork, as well as a completed Student Information and Release Form, will be collected at participating schools no later than April 11th. The release form can be found on Congresswoman Hochul’s website right here or may be obtained by calling Congresswoman Hochul’s Williamsville office.

Schools looking to participate in the Congressional Art Competition should contact Congresswoman Hochul’s Williamsville office at (716) 634-2324 or Washington, D.C. office at (202) 225-5265. Additional information regarding the competition can be found at http://www.house.gov/content/educate/art_competition/ .

Make and take craft opportunity for children begins at Richmond library

By Billie Owens

National Library Week “The Library is the Heart of Every Community” Make and Take Craft for Children

Place: The Children’s Room of Richmond Memorial Library, 19 Ross St., Batavia.

Date & Time: April 2 – 14 during regular library hours. The library is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and on Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Event Date and Time
-

Today's Deals: Larry's Steakhouse, New York Subs and Deli, Log Cabin, Adam Miller Toy & Bicycles, and more!

By Billie Owens

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 $12.50.

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 $10.

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 $12.50.

Delavan's, 107 Evans St., Batavia, NY: To me, Delavan's is one of those restaurants where you want to eat frequently so you can try everything on the menu. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Kravings, Valu Plaza, 4152 W. Main St., Batavia, NY: Kravings offers soups, salads and sandwiches, fresh and flavorful; Monday through Saturday. We have a $10 gift certificate for $5.

Larry's Steakhouse, 60 Main St., Batavia, NY: The name says it all -- Larry's is a great place for steak. Larry's has a fine dining atmosphere with a great menu and outstanding service. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Log Cabin Restaurant, 1227 Gilmore Rd, Corfu, NY: Overlooking the picturesque Indian Falls on the Tonawanda Creek, the Log Cabin is known for casual dining, beef on weck, burgers, steaks, prime rib and mouthwatering BBQ baby back ribs. The Log Cabin is located off Route 77, 1.7 miles north of Exit 48 on the Thruway. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

New York Subs and Deli, 234 Ellicott St., Batavia, NY: Offering the freshest ingredients daily with a wide variety of sandwiches, wraps, & daily specials. All tips collected go to an animal in need! We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Rancho Viejo, 12 Ellicott St., Batavia, NY: Traditional Mexican cuisine, from tacos and burritos to pollo norteno, Rancho Viejo brings a bit of "South of the Border" to Batavia's restaurant scene. We have a $20 gift card for $10.

Salsa & Curry, 13 Jackson St., Batavia, NY: An authentic Mexican restaurant, offering all of your favorite dishes from enchiladas and burritos to tacos and fajitas, as well as daily Indian food specials. We have a $20 gift card for $10.

Scooter's Family Restaurant, 3711 W. Main St. Road, Batavia NY: Nestled just outside of the Village of Batavia, Scooter's offers a homestyle menu, daily specials, kid's meals and homemade desserts! We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

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 $10.

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 $10.

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 $10.

Alabama Hotel, 1353 Lewiston Road, Basom, NY: A historic and legendary tavern and restaurant. The Alabama Hotel is famous for its fish fries, but also serves a variety of top-quality entrees, featuring Certified Angus Beef. Now with expanded hours. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

Bourbon & Burger Co., 9 Jackson St., Batavia, NY: Batavia's newest burger joint offers more than two dozen different types of tasty hamburgers. Our menu also includes a variety of sandwiches, appetizers and an extensive beer list, plus a full bar. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Greg'ry's Bakery, 13 N. Lake Road, Bergen, NY: The bakery offers a variety of the finest cakes, cookies, pies, cupcakes, breads, breakfast and lunch sandwiches and so much more. Each treat is made the same as it has been for decades and baked right here. Come in and sample some for yourself! We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

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.

Viking Valhalla Restaurant & Rose Garden Bowl, 21 Buffalo Road, Bergen, NY: Open for lunch Monday through Sunday, and dinner Friday and Saturday evenings. Dinner favorites are our succulent prime rib and Friday fish fries! We are always happy to help plan your special occasion -- wedding, shower, rehearsal dinner, stag party, graduation, company function, banquet, family or class reunion. 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.

SOLD OUT

Four local students make the Deans' List at Elmira College

By Billie Owens

Elmira College has released its Deans' List for academic acievement for the Fall 2011 term. The list recognizes students that have a grade-point average of 3.6 or highter.

Matthew Gale, (Class of 2012) of Le Roy; he is majoring in Childhood Education and Sociology and Anthropology.

Alicia Hough, (Class of 2013), of Elba; she is majoring in Business Administration.

Megan Lowe, (Class of 2013), of Le Roy; she is majoring in Adolescence Education -- Mathematics.

Jessica Pcionek, (Class of 2015), of Oakfield; she is majoring in Childhood Education and Foreign Languages -- French.

Elmira College, located in the Finger Lakes Region of beautiful, historic Upstate New York, is one of the great small colleges of the nation.

Brush fire off North Bergen Road

By Billie Owens

A brush fire is reported just east of 6385 N. Byron Road. Bryon and South Byron fire departments are dispatched. The location is between Route 237 and Bird Road.

UPDATE 1:54 p.m.: All responding units are back in service. We believe this was a controlled burn that the firefighters extinguished. We heard that they had talked with the property owner, which we take to mean they informed the person about opening burn regulations.

Subscribe to Stories from

Authentically Local