Skip to main content

Stories from

Batavia Muckdogs fall to Lowell 5-2, but take series and remain in first place

By Billie Owens

Two Miami Marlins draft picks who are making an impact with the Batavia Muckdogs high-five after a diving catch by Milton Smith II, left, in center field head first toward the fence to end the inning, and Troy Johnston, who belted a home run and doubled Friday before 1,301 fans in Batavia.

Submitted photo and press release:

After taking the first two games of the series against the Boston Red Sox from club Lowell Spinners, the Batavia Muckdogs were in position to take over the best overall record in the New York-Penn League.

However, the Spinners showed why they are in the top spot by scoring two big runs in the ninth inning to hold off the Muckdogs 5-2 Friday night before 1,301 fans at Dwyer Stadium.

Batavia (17-10) is still in first place in the NYPL Pinckney Division and goes on the road for three games against the Vermont Lake Monster, the Oakland A's farm club.

Troy Johnston, a 17th-round draft pick of the parent club Miami Marlins in 2019 out of Gonzaga University in Spokane, Wa., went 2-for-3 with a 394-foot solo home run to right field that went 102 MPH off the bat. Johnston also hit a RBI double down the left field line in the first and is now hitting .357 on the season.

Sean Reynolds continued his three-game tear in his return to Batavia by going 2-for-4 with a double to increase his average to .545, as he hit two home runs then followed it up with four hits including the double.

Milton Smith II made one of the best catches of the season in center field, going on a dead sprint to center and diving head-first toward the fence, making a catch to end the fourth inning. Smith II then led off the bottom half of the inning with a single and scored.

Albert Guairamo, Nic Ready and Dalvy Rosario had hits for Batavia.

The pitching staff game up 13 hits but only five runs, as Andrew Miller took the loss, throwing 3.2 innings with three strikeouts. Edison Suriel (two strikeouts) threw 1.1 scoreless innings and Bryan Hoeing in his first appearance in Batavia threw a scoreless inning.

The Muckdogs return home on Wednesday, July 17 and Thursday, July 18 against the Auburn Doubledays then back home July 20, 21 and 22 against Mahoning Valley.

Tickets for these games and others are available at the Dwyer Stadium box office between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, online at muckdogs.com or be calling 585-483-3647.

Winners announced for Kendra Haacke Memorial Fishing Derby

By Billie Owens

Above, Julie Plath, of Batavia, was the 2019 winner in the girl category of the Kendra Haacke Memorial Fishing Derby. In this photo, she is not holding the winning 8" bass she caught.

Submitted photos and press release:

Free Fishing Day and the Kendra Haacke Memorial Fishing Derby took place at DeWitt Recreation Area on Saturday, June 29th.

As part of the NYSDEC’s Free Fishing Weekend, no fishing license was required to participate. Families from Genesee, Monroe, Wyoming and Erie counties all traveled to Batavia to join in the free outdoor fun.

Friendly fishing guides were on hand to assist newbies with baiting a hook, casting and learning how to fish.

Forty-five children ages 16 and under participated in the fishing derby, catching a variety of panfish and bass.

Prizes were awarded for the largest fish caught each by a boy and a girl. This was the sixth annual Kendra Haacke Memorial Fishing Derby held at DeWitt Recreation Area. Each year the derby is sponsored by the Oakfield Alabama Lions Club.

This event was the result of collaboration between Genesee County Parks, Recreation & Forestry, the Oakfield-Alabama Lions Club, and ACORNS.

Fishing bait was provided by a generous donation from Walmart Supercenter of Batavia. All participants had the chance to win fishing tackle door prizes, and each derby winner took home a new rod and reel provided through a grant by Cabela’s of Cheektowaga.

Congratulations to the 2019 Kendra Haacke Memorial Fishing Derby winners: Girls category winner Julia Plath, from Batavia, with her 8” bass catch; and a tie in the Boys category resulted in two winners, Luke Volkmar, from Bergen, with his 8 1⁄2” bass catch, and Michael Atkinson, from Alexander, with his 8 1⁄2” bass catch.

Special thanks to the Oakfield Alabama Lions Club, ACORNS, Walmart, and Cabela’s for making this event possible!

For more information visit our website at http://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/parks/, or contact Shannon Lyaski at Shannon.Lyaski@co.genesee.ny.us or (585) 344-1122.

Below, is Luke Volkmar, of Bergen, who tied for first-place boys, with his new rod and reel, courtesy of Cabela’s of Cheektowaga.

Below, is Michael Atkinson, of Alexander, who tied for first-place boys, with his new rod and reel, courtesy of Cabela’s of Cheektowaga.

Batavia gynecologist Ashok Naik has retired

By Billie Owens

Ashok A. Naik, M.D., retired from the practice of gynecology in Batavia as of July 1.

Patients are advised to see Dr. John Jaeger (585-343-6206).

Records are available at his office.

Dr. Suwarna Naik will continue her practice of medicine at 4156 W. Main Street Road, Batavia.

Crossroads House overwhelmed by garage sale donations -- can't accept any more

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and press release:

Regarding Crossroads House Garage Sale donations...

A very generous community has packed our storage containers to our limit.

As a result, we cannot accept additional donations for the upcoming sale later this month.

You folks have filled three tractor-trailers, two shipping containers, a barn and our garage!

We are so fortunate to serve in a community of givers. We look forward to seeing everyone at the sale.

For more information on dates and times, click here.

Two GCC students awarded scholarships from GC Interagency Council

By Billie Owens

Pictured from left are members of the scholarship committee and the 2019 recipients: Karen Hall, Hannah Kujawski, Peg Patterson-Case, Melissa Vinyard, Chelsea Elliott, Todd Rapp, Amy Swanson, Kari Heidemann and Melinda Rodriguez.

Submitted photo and press release:

The Genesee County Interagency Council awarded two $1,000 scholarships at their annual picnic last month at the DeWitt Recreation Area.

This year’s recipients are Melinda Rogriguez and Melissa Vinyard.

Special Thanks to the Red Osier Landmark Restaurant in Stafford for catering such a wonderful meal for our council, scholarship recipients and their guests.

The goal of the scholarship is to support students who have a strong drive to contribute to the field of Human Services. The Council was seeking applicants who were pursing their education in a Human Services major.

The mission of the Genesee County Interagency Council is to create fellowship and understanding among community human services agencies. The council helps to identify community issues and encourages development of resolutions.

The Council is happy to have been able to award such deserving candidates and wishes them nothing but success for their future!

About the Scholarship Winners

  • Melinda Rodriguez, of Bergen, is a mom of five kids, a full-time student at Genesee Community College and a dean's list honoree. Her goals are to earn a degree in Social Work with a focus in the medical field. We look forward to seeing her develop her skills in the Human Services fields and joining our council in the future as a colleague.
  • Melissa Vinyard, of Batavia, is a second semester student at Genesee Community College majoring in Human Services with a focus on alcohol and substance abuse. Her goals are to help those in sobriety find support by being a counselor. We look forward to her joining the Interagency council some day at a colleague.

Free hepatitis A vaccine available for food-service workers through county health department

By Billie Owens

Press release from the GC Health Department:

The Genesee County Health Department has recently been awarded a grant to provide the hepatitis A vaccine to food-service workers at NO COST to them or the employer.

In Western New York and across the United States, foodborne outbreaks of hepatitis A have occurred as a result of infected food-service workers.

Brenden Bedard, director of Community Health Services for Genesee and Orleans counties, understands the severity of hepatitis A and the effect it can have on a business and community.

“Hepatitis A is a serious issue because most food-service workers will spread the infection before even knowing they have the disease," Bedard said. "A food-service worker can spread the virus to customers or other staff by contaminating surfaces, utensils and/or food, which can make unvaccinated individuals very sick.

"By offering the vaccine to food-service workers, we can prevent unnecessary illness from spreading in the community.”

Hepatitis A is a contagious (spreadable) liver infection that is caused by the hepatitis A Virus (HAV). It is typically spread through the feces (poop) of infected individuals.

Someone can become infected by consuming food or drink that has been contaminated by feces as well as having close personal contact with a person who is infected, or use of injection and non-injection drugs.

The symptoms of HAV may include sudden onset of fever, loss of appetite, nausea / vomiting, stomach pain, dark-colored urine and jaundice (a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes). HAV usually does not have signs or symptoms until the second week of infection and is the most infectious during this time.

The good news is that hepatitis A can be prevented through vaccination!

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the vaccine has a 94- to 100-percent efficacy rate.

The hepatitis A vaccine is a two-dose series that is administered six months apart. As the vaccine is not required to attend school or daycare, many people have not received it.

Currently three local restaurants have taken advantage of this opportunity for themselves and their employees who chose to receive the vaccine. The restaurants who have participated thus far have all expressed gratitude knowing their employees can protect themselves and their customers from the hepatitis A virus.

Any food-service worker employed in Genesee County can receive the vaccine.

By receiving the vaccine, you are also protecting yourself from getting the virus if you come in contact with dishes and/or utensils that may have been contaminated by a customer or coworker.

Restaurants that participate in this opportunity will receive a certificate honoring their commitment to protecting the health and safety of their workers and customers.

Limited vaccine is available through the funding, so the supply will be on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information, please call the Genesee County Health Department at 585-344-2580, ext. 5555. The department is open Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For more information on the hepatitis A virus, click (PDF) here.

National Grid preparing crews for strong winds and thunderstorms

By Billie Owens

Press release from National Grid:

Weather forecasts are calling for strong winds and thunderstorms across large portions of New York this afternoon and into the evening. While National Grid is preparing its crews and storm response plans, we also urge customers to be safe and ready.

The company offers the following tips to help customers be prepared and stay safe:

Electricity & Generator Safety

  • National Grid customers should call 1-800-867-5222 to report a power outage, or to report any downed wires.

  • Customers are urged to stay away from all downed wires, and anything those wires might be touching like tree limbs or fencing.

  • Generators used to supply power during an outage must be operated outdoors. Before operating a generator, be sure to disconnect from National Grid’s system by shutting off themain breaker, located in the electric service panel. Failure to do this could endanger restoration crews, first responders and your neighbors.

  • Customers who depend on electrically powered life support equipment, such as a respirator, should register as a life support customer by calling National Grid at 1-800-642-4272. (In a medical emergency, always dial 9-1-1.)

  • Keep a number of working flashlights and an extra supply of batteries in your home. Also, make sure to keep mobile devices charged.

  • Please drive carefully and use caution when driving near any repair crews working to restore power.

  • Be sure to check on elderly family members, neighbors and others who may need assistance during an outage.

National Grid also advises staying tuned to local media for important announcements from emergency officials about possible evacuations or other emergency procedures. In most areas, information on storm shelter locations is available by calling 2-1-1.

Stay Connected

National Grid offers several ways to stay informed and safe – before, during and after a storm:

  • We can send personalized alerts by text, e-mail or phone call when an outage is detected ata customer’s address, restoration estimates are available, or weather warnings have beenissued. To enroll, customers can call National Grid or text REG to 64743.

  • For real-time power outage information, online outage reporting, and in-depth storm safety information, visit the Outage Central section of www.nationalgridus.com. Customers who create an online profile on our website can also sign up for email alerts.

  • To receive text message alerts and updates from National Grid, text the word STORM to NGRID (64743).

  • Online and text alert services can be started and stopped at the customer’s request.

  • Visit our website: www.nationalgridus.com

GOW Opioid Task Force: Don't go it alone -- get help for recovery and take care of yourself

By Billie Owens

A Message to Families from the GOW Opioid Task Force:

By Sue Gagne

Whenever a family member struggles with any serious ongoing condition, everyone in the family is significantly affected. To find out a loved one has a substance use problem can be heart-wrenching.

If you know someone with a substance use disorder, you may find yourself struggling with a number of painful and conflicting emotions, including guilt, shame, self-blame, frustration, anger, sadness, depression, anxiety and fear. Those emotions can often overtake our lives and cause stress, burnout, fatigue, inability to sleep and more issues that can affect our own health.

When you fly on an airplane, the flight attendant instructs you to put your oxygen mask on first, before helping others. Why is this an important rule for ensuring survival? Because if you run out of oxygen, you can’t help anyone else with their oxygen mask. This is an important metaphor for those of us who have loved ones with substance use disorder. A reminder that we need to take care of ourselves.

You may feel overwhelmed, but there are things you can do to help yourself. We all know we need to get enough rest, exercise, and eat right. Here are a few other things that will be helpful:

Learn all you can about substance use and addiction. Addiction is a disease, not a character defect! According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “As a result of scientific research, we know that addiction is a disease that affects both the brain and behavior. We have identified many of the biological and environmental factors and are beginning to search for the genetic variations that contribute to the development and progression of the disease. Scientists use this knowledge to develop effective prevention and treatment approaches that reduce the toll drug abuse takes on individuals, families, and communities.”

Don’t go it alone! Shame is one of the biggest reasons people don’t seek help. It may help you to know that no one, and no family, is immune from addiction. Like any other chronic disorder, addiction to alcohol and other drugs afflicts people regardless of age, income level, educational background, race, ethnicity, religion/spirituality, and community. Many families deal with addiction. You are not alone ~ there is support!

Know that Recovery is Possible! Although it takes time, people do find recovery from addiction. Many individuals find recovery and continue on to live fulfilled lives. There are many pathways to recovery including 12-step meetings, peer-support, Medication Assisted Treatment, and more.

To learn about more about addiction, to connect with support, and to find resources related to addiction and recovery, visit the GOW Opioid Task Force website at www.gowopioidtaskforce.org

Tops Market in Le Roy to host grand reopening July 16 to unveil $1.6 million in renovations

By Billie Owens

Press release:

LE ROY -- It’s a new day for shoppers in the Le Roy community as Tops Friendly Markets unveils over $1.6 million dollars in renovations in its hometown grocery store.

This impressive investment includes everything from new flooring, energy efficient equipment, and shopping carts, to a whole new interior décor, givingthe store a refreshed and warm appearance.

Grand Reopening at the store, located at 128 W. Main St., Le Roy, at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 16.

Shoppers will find an expansion of Tops’ deli/carry out café areas with a remodeled seating area and bakery as well as finding a wide selection of natural and organic and gluten-free offerings conveniently integrated throughout the main aisles.

Throughout the store, shoppers will also see expanded refrigerated produce allowing for more variety and convenience, an increase of antibiotic-free meat and seafood selections, and a much larger selection of beers, including local favorites, in our Brew Market.

“I am so proud of the changes we have made to this store which will only enhance our customers shopping experience,” said Tom Brigham, store manager of the Le Roy Tops Friendly Markets. “You’ll find the store is designed to bring you more selection, more convenience, more organics, and more grab-and-go meals prepared fresh every day, all at a great value.”

Additionally Tops is proud to partner with more than 200 local growers. Some of these partners are family farms that have been growing for generations and many have been part of the Tops family for decades.

Fenton’s Produce, located in Batavia, brings our shoppers everything from corn, and potatoes, to summer squash and peppers.

Tops has also been proud to support product grown by New York State farmers who adhere to the New York State Grown and Certified program’s requirements, which includes verification of safe food handling practices and participation in environmental sustainability programs.

An added bonus for Le Roy shoppers is the gas station conveniently located on the property. As customers shop at Tops, they’ll earn points toward fuel savings! Ready to fill up? Just scan your Tops BonusPlus® card at the pump and watch your gas price drop! You’ll save 10 center per gallon for every 100 GasPoints you redeem at a Tops Gas Station. With so many ways to earn, it’s easy to save 30, 40, 50 cents, even a dollar a gallon!

Le Roy Tops shoppers will also save time by using Tops Grocery Delivery services. With fast, online ordering, get your favorite items and the best deals in town that you love -- delivered from our store to your door.

Customers can visit TopsMarkets.com/Instacartand enter their zip code to get started. Exclusive to Tops our customers can use the promo code "TakeOff15" when they visit TopsMarkets.com/Instacart and receive $15 off their first order of $35 or more.

Law and Order: Ross Street man accused of third-degree assault and threatening woman with fake gun

By Billie Owens

Salvatore M. Tornabene, 26, of Ross Street, Batavia, (inset photo right) is charged with third-degree assault. He was arrested following a domestic incident on Ross Street at 11:30 p.m. on July 1. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed without bail. Tornabene was due back in city court July 8. 

Salvatore M. Tornabene, 26, of Ross Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, and second-degree menacing. At 11:05 p.m. on July 6, Batavia police responded to Ross Street for a report of subjects fighting, possibly with weapons. He was arrested after he allegedly threatened a woman with an imitation pistol. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed without bail. Tornabene was due back in city court July 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Kyle Allan Hawley, 29, of South Lake Avenue, Bergen, is charged with: two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree; possession of a hypodermic instrument; and criminal use of drug paraphernalia in the second degree. At 8:10 a.m. on July 10, the GC Emergency Dispatch Center received a report of a larceny that just occurred at a business on West Main Street in the City of Batavia. The suspect vehicle was located entering the Thruway at the Exit 48 interchange. Hawley was identified as a passenger in the vehicle. Following a search of the vehicle, and after allegedly observing stolen property in plain view, Hawley was found to allegedly possession two different kinds of controlled substances and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested, arraigned in Batavia Town Court and processed, then released on appearance tickets. He is due back in town court on July 25. The investigation was assisted by members of the NYS Troopers and City of Batavia Police Department. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan DeLong.

Mitchell Edward Bryan, 27, East Bethany -- Le Roy Road, Stafford, is charged with: aggravated driving while intoxicated; DWI; driving left of pavement markings; moving from unsafely; and failure to keep right. At 12:12 a.m. on July 11, the Genesee County Sheriff's Office investigated a one-car accident on Bernd Road in the Town of Le Roy. The driver and sole occupant, Bryan, was arrested on the charges listed. He was driving northbound on Bernd Road when he cross over into the southbound lane and continued off the west shoulder, striking a tree. Further investigation allegedly revealed he had a BAC of .18 percent or higher. He was released on an appearance ticket and is due in the Town of Le Roy Court on Aug. 6. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore.

David M. Raines, 37, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. He was arrested at 7 p.m. on July 5 after an incident on Bank Street. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on July 16 to answer the charge. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Peter Post.

Speak Up Toastmasters induct new officers for 2019-20 fiscal year

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and press release:

The energetic and motivational club, Speak Up Toastmasters, met at a special place and time on Tuesday to induct new officers for the 2019-2020 fiscal year.

Janice Brooks (Area Director), members, and guests welcomed Sarah Kohl (Sergeant at Arms), Judy Britton (Secretary), Leslie Marino (VP Public Relations), Denise Hull ( VP Education), and Patrick Olson (President & Treasurer) in their new roles. Not pictured, Brenda Serena (VP Membership).

Our speaker for the evening, newly appointed President & Treasurer Olson, presented a research project on Team Work. The speech was his third educational award giving him the distinction of earning the District's Triple Crown Award.

"The nice thing about the new educational manuals is that they are all online now so they can be accessed anywhere you have an Internet connection. And it's the club experience that teaches you the most," Marino said.

There are more than 345,000 registered members in Toastmasters. Interested in becoming a better communicator and leader? Visit a club meeting for FREE!

Meetings are on the second and fourth Tuesday at 7 p.m., 190 Oak St., Batavia. www.SpeakUpToastmasters.org, text or call 585-993-0515 or email LeslieAGMarino@Yahoo.com to save a seat.

Byron-Bergen HS Class of '69 to dedicate memorial bench this month and hold 50th reunion party

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and press release:

BERGEN – In September, 1968, 93 students entered their senior year at Byron-Bergen High School. It was the beginning of where their roads would take them in life, decisions had to be made. Many classmates chose to further their education by attending college, some enlisted in the military, others became farmers and stay at home moms and some went into the trades.

In June of 1969, eighty-eight students received their diplomas and their adult life began.

Fifty years later, this group of friends and classmates still reunite every five years and at each reunion classmates who have passed away are remembered.

This year the Class of 1969 is donating a memorial bench to the Byron-Bergen School District. The bench has been placed in a prominent area by the flagpole in the high school parking circle.

The Memorial Bench Dedication ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. Friday, July 19, in the Byron-Bergen High School parking circle by the flagpole, 6917 W. Bergen Road, Bergen.

The public is invited and after the dedication there will be a “meet & greet” at the Rose Garden Bowl / Viking Valhalla Restaurant in Bergen.

This bench donation is the first of its kind to be made to the school and it is hoped it will inspire other classes to do something similar.

On Saturday, July 20, at 6 p.m. the Byron-Bergen Class of 1969 will gather at Dibble Family Center in Batavia to celebrate their 50th reunion and about 80 guests will be in attendance.

If you would like more information about this event, please contact Janice Gilbert at 585-967-9042 or email to jgilbert33@live.com

Here's the 4-H schedule for the Genesee County Fair July 13-20

By Billie Owens

Press release:

2019 Genesee County Fair 4-H Schedule

Remember to visit 4-H at the fair! The Genesee County Fair will be held July 13-20 at the Genesee County Fairgrounds, 5056 E. Main Street Road, in Batavia.

For more information about the Genesee County Fair, click here

2019 Genesee County Fair 4-H Schedule

Saturday, July 13th 

4 p.m.                 4-H Poultry Show (Merton Building)

6 p.m.                 4-H Livestock Costume Contest (Main Show Ring)

Sunday, July 14th 

10 a.m.               4-H Beef Show (Main Show Ring)

4 p.m.                 4-H Rabbit Show (Merton Building)

Monday, July 15th 

9 a.m.                 4-H Market Auction Goat Show (Main Show Ring)

10 a.m.               4-H Cloverbud Poultry Show (Merton Building)

10 a.m.               4-H Dairy Cattle Fitting Clinic & Master Fitter Competition (4-H Dairy Barn)

10:30 a.m.          4-H Goat Agility Contest (Goat Barn Show Ring)

10:30 a.m.          4-H Market Auction Lamb Show (Main Show Ring)

4 p.m.                 4-H Market Auction Dairy Steer Show (Main Show Ring)

5 p.m.                 4-H Market Auction Beef Steer Show (Main Show Ring)

Tuesday, July 16th

10 a.m.               4-H Cloverbud Rabbit Show (Merton Building)

11 a.m.               4-H Dairy & Meat Goat Show (Main Show Ring)

1 p.m.                 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest (4-H Dairy Barn)

4 p.m.                 4-H Energy Bike Pedal Power Activity (Kennedy Building)

5 p.m.                 4-H Market Auction Hog Show (Main Show Ring)

7 p.m.                 Fair Barn Dance (Open Dairy Barn)

Wednesday, July 17th 

9 a.m.                 4-H Hog Show (Main Show Ring)

12 p.m.               4-H Sheep Show (Main Show Ring)

3 p.m.                 4-H Geocache Challenge (Kennedy Building)

6:30 p.m.            Fair Parade

Thursday, July 18th 

9 a.m.                 4-H Dairy Cattle Show (Main Show Ring)

9 a.m.                 4-H Horse Show – Western Division (Horse Arena)

6:45 p.m.            4-H Market Animal Auction Awards Ceremony (Main Show Ring)

7 p.m.                 4-H Market Animal Auction Sale Begins (Main Show Ring)

Friday, July 19th 

9 a.m.                 4-H Horse Show – English & Dressage Division (Horse Arena)

9 a.m.                 4-H Beef Team Fitting Competition (Main Show Ring)

12 p.m.               4-H Livestock Master Showman Contest (Main Show Ring)

1 p.m.                 4-H Dairy Club Butter Making Activity (Kennedy Building)

5:30 p.m.            4-H Tractor Driving Contest

Saturday, July 20th 

9 a.m.                 4-H Horse Show – Gymkhana Division (Horse Arena)

2 p.m.                 4-H Creative Soil Painting Activity (Kennedy Building)

4 p.m.                 4-H Market Auction Master Showman Contest (Main Show Ring)

The complete daily schedule of the Genesee County Fair is available here.

Reminder: Independent Living to celebrate ADA with community picnic July 26

By Billie Owens

Batavia’s premier consumer-run human service and advocacy agency for people with disabilities, Independent Living of the Genesee Region (ILGR), will hold an ADA Picnic to celebrate the 29th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Open to the general public, and offering FREE food, fun, and games, the event will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, July 26, at Kiwanis Park, 3808 W. Main Street Road, Batavia.

Contributing to the fun will be the University Heights Art Association (UHAA), which regularly partners with ILGR on the ARTiculations Ability Exhibition in the Independent Living reception area.

Artists with disabilities are given the opportunity to display and sell their artwork at the Center. UHAA will bring projects and materials that will enable picnickers to creatively celebrate the birthday of the ADA. 

To ensure that we have enough food and materials for the fun, if you plan to attend, please R.S.V.P. to Donna Becker at (585) 815-8501, ext. 411.

At the time the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed in 1990, a patchwork of laws existed to protect the civil rights of citizens with disabilities only in certain situations, such as access to airports, fairness in housing, and non-discrimination by federally funded institutions.

The ADA broadly bars disability-based discrimination in employment, telecommunications, by state and local governments, in places of public accommodation such as stores, restaurants, banks, theaters, hotels, and stadia, among other protections.

This has made it the single most important body of law for a particular population, the disability community, since the protections for racial and ethnic minorities and women of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which inspired some of the ADA’s provisions.

We look forward to having you celebrate with us, but please remember to R.S.V.P.!

'Sharrows' -- new lane markings, signs in Batavia to increase awareness of bicyclists

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and press release from the City of Batavia:

National and Local efforts to incorporate bicyclists in any new road project are finding their way into the City of Batavia.

“Complete Streets” is the term that is used for any street or highway, or any reconstruction of an existing highway, to consider the effect on bicyclists and pedestrians. Where possible, accommodation of these two groups should be incorporated into the project.

This has happened in the City of Batavia, where the most recent update to the City’s Comprehensive Plan encourages a “Complete Streets” approach. East Avenue and Liberty Street now have “sharrows,” or shared lane markings (SLM), meaning that the streets, which have only one travel lane in each direction, are shared with bicycles in a wide (14 feet or more) lane (see road photo).

Shared lane markings are high-visibility pavement markings that help position bicyclists within the travel lane. These markings are often used on streets where dedicated bike lanes are desirable but are not possible due to physical or other constraints.

Shared lane markings are placed in the travel lane to alert motorists of bicycle traffic, while also encouraging cyclists to ride at an appropriate distance from the “door zone” of adjacent parked cars.

If there is enough room, a separate bike lane should be marked. Dedicated bike lanes do impact the ability to accommodate on street parking and often there just isn’t enough room to accommodate them.

Further complicating the issue for bicyclists are streets where parking is allowed, as drivers often open their doors without looking for bicycles approaching from the rear. Bicyclists have been seriously injured by riding into a car door opened by a driver or rear-seat passenger without regard for bicycles.

The “sharrow” pavement markings should be supplemented with a Bicycle Warning Sign (see sign photo).

Federal and state criteria designate where the sharrows and the warning signs should and should not be used.

For bicyclists, where the sharrows are painted on the pavement, it only means that both bicycles and vehicles must use the same lane, and caution should be used by both. Vehicles should give bicyclists plenty of room when overtaking bicycles and bicyclists should realize that vehicles will be passing them.

Providing marked facilities such as shared lane markings is one way of helping to persuade residents to give bicycling a try and remind motorists that the roadway is to be shared with bicycles.

Law and Order: Oakfield teen accused of leaving accident, reporting car as stolen, giving false information

By Billie Owens

Kayla Michelle Yglesias, 19, of Fisher Road, Oakfield, is charged with: falsifying business records in the first degree; falsely reporting an incident to law enforcement in the third degree; operator leaving the scene of a property damage accident; moving from lane unsafely; unlicensed operator; and failure to report a property damage accident. At 8:50 p.m. on July 7, Yglesias was arrested after an investigation of an incident that occurred at 3:45 a.m. June 22 on Fisher Road in Oakfield. She was allegedly involved in a motor-vehicle accident in the Town of Oakfield and left the scene. She then reported the vehicle she was driving as stolen to Sheriff's deputies and falsified information on a supporting deposition. On July 3, deputies recovered the vehicle submerged in a body of water in the Town of Byron. Yglesias was issued appearance tickets and is due in Oakfield Town Court on July 29. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Erik Andre, assisted by Investigator Christopher Parker.

Adam Michael Kreutz, 30, of Franklin Street, Batavia, is charged with falsifying business records in the first degree. He was arrested at 9:50 p.m. on July 7 after an investigation of an incident that occurred at 3:45 a.m. on June 22 on Fisher Road in Oakfield. Kreutz allegedly falsified information on a supporting deposition taken by the GC Sheriff's Office to conceal another crime that was committed. He was arraigned in Oakfield Town Court and jailed without bail. He was due to return to Oakfield court on July 8. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Erik Andre, assisted by  Investigator Christopher Parker.

Parker E. Payton, 20, of Pavilion, was arrested by the Wyoming County Sheriff's Office following a traffic stop on York Road in the Town of Pavilion. He is charged with: driving while ability impaired by drugs; reckless driving; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree; unlawful possession of marijuana; unlawful possession of alcohol by person under 21; possession of a fictitious driver’s license; and multiple other traffic infractions. Payton was observed driving on State Route 63 in the Town of Covington several feet into the oncoming lane while traffic was flowing in the opposite direction past his vehicle. Payton drove his vehicle onto Perry Road then turned on to York Road where deputies were able to conduct a traffic stop. Payton was found to be in underage and allegedly in possession of alcohol in plain view within his vehicle. A subsequent vehicle search found Payton to be in possession of marijuana inside a grinder, concentrated cannabis, and a forged NYS driver’s license. Payton also allegedly failed field sobriety testing and was taken into custody for DWAI Drugs. Payton was taken to the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office where a Drug Recognition Expert performed a drug influence evaluation with Payton. Payton was found to be impaired by cannabis and unable to operate a vehicle safely. Payton was released to a sober third party and scheduled to answer the charges in the Town of Covington Court on July 29.

Crash in front of Tops in Batavia

By Billie Owens

A two-car accident with possibly minor injuries occurred a few minutes ago in front of Tops Market in Batavia, at Lewiston Road and West Main Street.

Town of Batavia Fire Department, law enforcement and Mercy medics responded.

GC 4-H members to showcase hundreds of projects at fair, theme is 'Patriotic'

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Genesee County 4-H members will showcase hundreds of projects at the Genesee County Fair July 13-20, in Batavia. More than 250 local 4-H youth will exhibit projects and participate in activities throughout the duration of the fair.

The 4-H Kennedy Building will feature hundreds of projects in areas including horticulture, fine arts, hobby crafts, sewing, food and nutrition, posters and more.

On display in the 4-H Kennedy Building and throughout the 4-H Animal Barns will be displays made by more than 20 Genesee County 4-H Clubs. Displays will proudly feature the 2019 4-H fair theme “Patriotic.” 

Highlights of the 4-H schedule include the Livestock Costume Contest on Saturday, July 13th at 6 p.m. in the main show ring. 4-H members will compete with their project animals for awards such as Most Humorous Costume, Best Craftsmanship, and Overall Champion Costume. 

The annual fair parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 17th. 4-H Clubs will showcase the highlights of their club year by competing with parade floats. 

The Livestock Master Showman Contest will be on Friday, July 19th, at noon in the main show ring. The winners of master showmanship in dairy cattle, beef cattle, sheep, goats, hogs, poultry and rabbits will compete for the title of Overall Livestock Master Showman.

On Saturday, July 20th at 4 p.m. in the main show ring will be the Market Animal Auction Master Showman Contest. Master Showman winners of the Auction Division shows will compete for the title of Market Animal Auction Master Showman.

The Genesee County Fair will be held July 13-20 at the Genesee County Fairgrounds 5056 E. Main Street Road, in Batavia. For more information about the Genesee County Fair, click here.

GOW Opioid Task Force meeting is July 24 in Stafford, topic is non-opioid pain management

By Billie Owens

The speakers for the upcoming GOW Opioid Task Force Quarterly Meeting are announced.

They are:

  • Dr. Matthew Fernaays, MD, PhD, Pembroke Family Medicine/GCASA will be discussing what pain is and how opioids work
  • Patrick Privatera, MS, PT, ATC, president of Village Physical Therapy & Village Fitness will present on non-opioid alternatives to pain management with a focus on non-surgical approaches
  • Dr. Hemant Kalia, MD, MPH, UMMC Pain Clinic/Rochester Regional Health will share his expertise on non-opioid alternatives to pain management with a focus on surgical and medical approaches.

The meeting will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday July 24th, at the Stafford Fire Hall. It is located at 6153 Main St. in Stafford.

Please join us as the following local professionals share their knowledge and expertise on non-opioid alternatives to pain management:

Speakers will begin promptly at 10 a.m. and conclude remarks by 11:30 a.m.

To register for this event please visit our website at: www.gowopioidtaskforce.org and click the link right on our homepage.  

If you are a community agency and have a local event you wish to share with Task Force members please email Allison Parry-Gurak at:

aparry-gurak@gcasa.org

Authentically Local