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Motorcycle accident reported in East Pembroke

By Billie Owens

A motorcycle accident is reported between Pratt and Killian roads in East Pembroke.

A hand hip laceration is reported. Mercy EMS and East Pembroke fire are responding.

UPDATE (3:58 p.m.): Mercy Flight is requested. More manpower is requested to set up a landing zone in a hayfield located west of Killian and south of Slusher roads.

UPDATE (4:23 p.m.): Due to weather conditions, Mercy Flight is taking the patient to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.

City needs at least 1,200 more citizens to take online survey

By Billie Owens

In order to make the City of Batavia's Citizen Survey viable, at least 1,200 more residents need to log onto its home page and take eight minutes to answer eight questions.

For all those Batavians with a bone to pick, two cents worth, a word of praise or some pointed recommendations, here's a quick, easy opportunity to get it on the record for the city council to consider.

Simply put, more people need to weigh in in order for the data to be useful for planning purposes.

The website is <http://www.batavianewyork.com>.

City residents and those who work in the city are asked to provide input in order to gauge how citizens perceive the quality of several city services.

The survey also inquires as to whether citizens plan to remain in Batavia in five years and provides an area for general comments. The data received from the survey can be broken down by ward, age group and/or gender.

The survey was developed by city administration and is being administered free of charge through the use of software owned by Genesee Community College’s BEST Center.

While the city has contracted with the BEST Center to help it develop a strategic plan, the administration of the survey is being offered at no cost to the city.

“We are grateful to the BEST Center for allowing us to utilize its existing resources,” said City Manager Jason Molino. “This is our first time to administer an electronic survey, and we need more citizen involvement.

"We chose electronic means because it is environmentally responsible, provides efficiency with data interpretation and was offered to us free."

According to Molino, data from the surveys can be organized and reported out with the use of various filters within a matter of minutes.

“Efficiency and environmental consciousness aside; we need enough citizens to complete the survey in order to have quality usable data for our planning process,”  Molino said.

“We are strongly encouraging all residents to log on to the website and spend a few minutes to give us the feedback we need to make citizen-involved decisions during our planning process.”

For individuals without computer access, the Richmond Memorial Library encourages Batavia residents to use its free Internet service to take the survey. The library offers several computer terminals from which the survey can be taken. The service is free; however individuals must sign up to become a library member.

Membership to the Richmond Memorial Library is free and simply requires a few minutes to provide some basic information. Summer library hours are:  9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. The library is located at 19 Ross St.

If there are any questions, please contact:

Office of the City Manager
One Batavia City Centre
Batavia, New York 14020
Phone:   (585) 345-6330
Fax:        (585) 343-8182
E-mail:   jmolino@batavianewyork.com

Veteran catch driver Jack Flanigen predicted to continue success in 64th season of live racing at the Downs

By Billie Owens

Batavia has been a welcome change for veteran catch driver Jack Flanigen, who has been in the sulky since 1984. After resigning in January from his day job of nine years at the New York State Thruway Authority, Flanigen decided to once again pursue his passion as a reinsman full-time.

The decision has indeed paid off, as Flanigen has tallied up 188 wins and $746,158 in purses at the Buffalo meet this year.

Todd Haight, track analyst at Batavia Downs Casino, is optimistic that Flanigen will continue his success when the 64th Season of Live Racing opens this Monday, July 26.

“Flanigen had an excellent meet at Buffalo," Haight said. "Not only has he clinched leading driver honors, but he's had some nice New York Sire Stakes wins. I believe Jack will have an excellent meet here as well."

Due to his success, Flanigen has attracted many drives from leading trainers at Buffalo Raceway, such as Lisa Lederhouse, Bobbi Martin and Larry Clabaugh.

As mentioned, he's also attracted attention from trainers in the New York Sire Stakes program who are already winning with It’s Only Roni, Tuesday’s With Mom and new Buffalo Raceway track record holder Roadside Delight.  
 
One of the highlights of the 2010 season for Flanigen has been the opportunity to be at the reins for veteran 14-year-old trotter Boomer Berman, who has finished first or second in his last 18 starts.

“He’s unreal," Flanigen said. "To be 14 and this good is amazing, he’s a pleasure to drive."
 
Jack Flanigen has had numerous successes at America’s Oldest Lighted Harness Track, including leading driver honors multiple times in the mid 1990s.
 
During his 26-year driver career, Flanigen has won 3392 races and has amassed $8.2 million in purse earnings.

Genesee Region Insurance Pros award $1,000 scholarship

By Billie Owens

Genesee Region Insurance Professionals (GRIP) awarded their $1,000 Harry K. Lown Memorial Scholarship to Karrie Mrowczynski (Letchworth Central School).

Patricia Lown, wife of the late Harry K. Lown, was on hand to witness the first time this award was given in his honor. It will be bestowed annually.

The event was held at Terry Hills Restaurant and Banquet Facility in Batavia.

Karrie will be studying Business Administration and Entrepreneurship at University of Buffalo in the fall.

Hotdog stand at WalMart Sunday to benefit animals

By Billie Owens

This Sunday, July 25, there will be a hotdog stand outside the Batavia Walmart to help support Volunteers for Animals.

It opens at 11 a.m. and will be generously provided by Jackson St. Grill/Belladessa's. There will be grilled hotdogs, chips and soda pop for sale, with all proceeds going to VFA. They plan to be there until 6 p.m. or until the hotdogs are sold out!

"We hope you will come out for a dog and drink to help out the animals at the Genesee County Animal Shelter," say the volunteers.

Event Date and Time
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Farm tractor ablaze in field in Byron

By Billie Owens

A fully involved farm tractor fire is reported at 5552 Cochran Cockram Road in Byron. It is in the middle of a field with no structures surrounding it.

Byron and South Byron fire departments are called to respond.

UPDATE (1:28 p.m.): The tractor fire is about a hundred yards from a house. The address is between Transit and Bank Street roads.

UPDATE (1:30 p.m.): The fire is knocked out but the fire units are requested to continue.

UPDATE (1:35 p.m.): A fireman reports that the fire has rekindled itself.

UPDATE (1:51 p.m.): The fire is reported to be completely out and the firefighters are leaving the scene.

Lots of special events and promos lined up for the 64th season at Batavia Downs

By Billie Owens

Another season-long line-up of exciting promotions, a new Clubhouse viewing area and an earlier weeknight post time highlight the return of harness racing at historic Batavia Downs Casino at 6:40 p.m. this coming Monday, July 26.

Once again, opening night customers will be treated to free programs while the first 750 race fans on Saturday, July 31, will receive a complimentary New York Sire Stakes/Batavia Downs Casino beverage glass.

The 64th season at The Downs highlights the 30-year anniversary of the great Niatross’ world record when he eclipsed legendary Bret Hanover’s record with a sparkling 1:55 performance.

Over $1 million in stakes money, including eight New York Sire Stakes races, six Late Closer events and the Robert J. Kane Memorial Invitational Pace on Oct. 16 are among the 72 racing dates at The Downs this season.

New York Sire Stakes races will be held on Aug. 2 and 18, and Sept. 4, 8, 10, 17 and 18.

Racing will be Monday (except Aug. 30), Wednesday, Friday and Saturday through Labor Day and then Wednesday, Friday and Saturday until closing day Dec. 5 with eight added Tuesday dates from Sept. 14 through Nov. 9 (except Oct. 12).

Post time is now 6:40 each evening and 1:15 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 29, Labor Day (Monday, Sept. 6) and Columbus Day (Monday, Oct. 11).

The wagering menu has been reformatted with an additional Daily Double, now available on races 1-2, 4-5, 8-9 and 10-11. Also new this season is a Pick Six wager that begins on race seven with a starting pool guaranteed at $1,000.
 
Western New York’s top drivers and trainers return this season. Kevin Cummings will defend his leading driver title with strong challenges expected from Jack Flanigen and Ray Fisher Jr. Trainer Sherry Holliday looks to repeat as the leading conditioner with Ron Beback Jr., Neal Russo and Jim Graham challenging.
 
Visitors to Batavia Downs Casino have made Grandstands Bar and Grille a 7-day-a-week destination. The sports restaurant on the second level has a distinct retro décor and features many historic photos of America’s Oldest Lighted Harness Track.

Grandstands Bar and Grille is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. with a full menu and wide selection of beer, wine and mixed drinks. It also features self-vending terminals for wagering and 37 high-definition flat panel TVs.
 
Promotional Marketing Specialist Todd Haight has developed an aggressive schedule of compelling promotions, highlighted by Family Fun Day on Sunday, Aug. 29, featuring the always popular Wiener Dog Races.

A first for Batavia Downs Casino this season will be the $7,500 college scholarship race on Sept. 11 when five Batavia-area high school seniors compete at the Genesee County oval.

The complete promotion schedule can be viewed at <http://www.westernotb.com/>  (click on the Batavia Downs icon).

Vehicle being towed by motorhome catches fire on Thruway

By Billie Owens

A car fire was reported on the Thruway -- the car was being towed by an RV.

The RV driver was reportedly initially unaware of the fire.  He under did eventually pull over at the Batavia off-ramp.

An assistant chief from the Le Roy Fire Department was in the area and heard Town of Batavia Fire being dispatched. He responded and knocked down the fire, which was reportedly under the car.

The motorhome was reportedly traveling along the Thruway for some time with the driver apparently unaware of the car fire.

There is a reported extension of the fire into the console. The vehicle has been disconnected from the motorhome.

Be safe in and around water this summer

By Billie Owens

Here's some important information from the Disaster Services of Western New York, Tri County Chapter.

Summer Water Safety Guide

Staying safe around water doesn’t mean just having kids wear water-wings.

A recent American Red Cross survey shows that almost half the adults surveyed on water safety say they’ve had an experience where they nearly drowned, and one in four know someone who has drowned.

While more than 90 percent of families with young children will be in the water at some point this summer, almost half (48 percent) plan to swim in a place with no lifeguard.

With so many planning to be in, on or near the water, it is 
important to follow the basics of water safety, maintain 
constant supervision of children and to get trained!

Practice Water Safety

  • Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards.
  • Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone.
  • Ensure that everyone in the family learns to swim well.
  • Enroll in age-appropriate Red Cross 
water-orientation and Learn-to-Swim courses.
  • Never leave a young child unattended near water and do not trust a child’s life to another child; 
teach children to always ask permission to go near water.
  • Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets 
around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone.

Maintain Constant Supervision

  • If you have a pool, secure it with appropriate barriers — many children who drown in home pools 
were out of sight for less than five minutes and in the care of one or both parents at the time.
  • Actively supervise children whenever around water — even if lifeguards are present. 
Always stay within arm’s reach of young children.
  • Avoid distractions when supervising children around water.

Know How to Respond to an Aquatic Emergency

  • If a child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability.
  • Know how and when to call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.
  • Enroll in Red Cross water safety, first-aid and CPR courses to learn how to respond.
  • Have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets and a first-aid kit.

What You Should Do

Contact your local Red Cross chapter to find out which aquatic facilities in your area offer Red Cross 
courses, and sign up!

July 31 at Batavia Downs Casino will give away unique beverage glasses to 750 racing fans

By Billie Owens

Saturday night, July 31, marks the first big giveaway at Batavia Downs Casino. (Harness racing returns to the Western New York standardbred track for the 64th season on July 26.)

Batavia Downs Casino and the New York Sire stakes are partnering in a Glass Giveaway. This unique beverage glass has all of the Downs 2010 Sire Stakes dates listed on it.

“We’re again pleased to work with Mr. Goold and the Sire Stakes folks on our first major giveaway of the season," said Michael D. Kane, vice president of Live Racing and OTB branch operations. “We’re confident our racing fans we be pleased with this promotion.”

Beginning at 5 p.m., the first 750 racing fans that swipe there Player's Club card will receive a ticket good for NYSS glass that can then be redeemed in the Paddock Room after the 7th race of the evening.

Racing fans are reminded that first race post time is now 6:40 p.m. For a complete list of the August racing promotions, please visit <http://www.bataviadownscasino.com/>.

Demonstration of new voting machines

By Billie Owens

Attention voters! There will be a demonstration of the new electronic voting machines, which will be used in the 2010 elections, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, July 29 in Pembroke Town Hall.

It is located at 1145 Main Road in Corfu.

(Note: this date was changed from the previously scheduled date of Wednesday, July 28 in Pembroke. The Genesee County Board of Elections apologizes for any inconvenience.)

Event Date and Time
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Change of date for voting machine demo in Pembroke

By Billie Owens

There has been a change of date for the voter outreach program demonstrating how to use the new electronic voting machines which was scheduled on Wednesday, July 28.

It will still take place in Pembroke Town Hall, but the date has been changed to Thursday, July 29 instead. Hours are the same, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

The Pembroke Town Hall is located at 1145 Main Road in Corfu.

The Genesee County Board of Elections apologizes for any inconvenience.

Demonstration of new voting machines

By Billie Owens

Attention voters! The Genesee County Board of Elections is demonstrating the new voting machines which will be used in the 2010 elections. There is a demonstration from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, July 26, at the Office for the Aging. It is located at 2 Bank St. in the City of Batavia.

Event Date and Time
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Muckdogs return home Sunday for two games against the Crosscutters

By Billie Owens

The Muckdogs return home this Sunday, July 25, for a two-game series with the Williamsport Crosscutters, an affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. Game time is 5:05 p.m., with gates opening at 4.

With every Sunday, we’ll once again have Bob Evans Restaurant’s Post Run the Bases with Homer. All kids have the opportunity to run the bases with Homer after the game! Every child who runs the bases will receive a free kid’s meal coupon courtesy of Bob Evans Restaurant.

Monday, July 26, the Muckdogs will once more face the opposing Crosscutters. Game time begins at 7:05 p.m., with gates opening at 6.

Monday offers a Bike Raffle courtesy of the Lion’s Club of Batavia. The Lions Club will be giving away a bike to one lucky boy and one lucky girl. It will also be Muckdog Monday presented by The Daily News, where fans receive a $1 off a general admission ticket with coupon in the Saturday edition of The Daily News.

Monday is also a Knot Hole Gang game courtesy of Turnbull Heating & Air. At every Knot Hole Gang game, members can get a general admission ticket for just $2 and their parents/guardians also receive a $1 off their ticket.

To find out more information on the Knot Hole Gang, check out muckdogs.com.

For tickets, call the Muckdogs Box Office at 343-5454, ext. 1005.

Chamber of Commerce member appreciation night is Aug. 26

By Billie Owens

All Genesee County Chamber of Commerce members and their guests are invited to attend the chamber’s annual Member Appreciation Night starting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 26.

This year, the chamber will host “A Night at the Ballpark.” Ticket price include general admission to the game and an all-you-can-eat buffet under Party Tent in the “The Hot Corner.”

The buffet will be served between 6 and 7 p.m. and includes hotdogs, hamburgers and cheeseburgers with all the fixings, pasta salad, potato salad, watermelon, potato chips, ice-cold beer and soda.

The cost is $18 for adults, $9 for children 4-12 and free for children 3 and under.

Tickets along with an additional event wristband MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE AT THE CHAMBER OFFICE, 210 E. Main St., Batavia. If you do not purchase your tickets at the Chamber Office you will NOT BE ADMITTED TO THE PARTY TENT.

Chamber office hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday – Friday. Please call Kelly B. at 343-7440 for any questions.

Weiner Dog Races set for Aug. 29 at Batavia Downs Casino

By Billie Owens

Batavia Downs Casino will hold its annual Weiner Dog Races and Family Fun Day on Sunday, Aug. 29.

The whole family is invited to visit with Mr. Scribbles, Pringles the Clown, and get free pony rides 2 to 4 p.m. for the kids. Sahlens hot dogs and sodas will be just $1 at the Paddock Room concession stand beginning at noon.

At approximately 4:30 p.m., the Weiner Dogs will take to the track! Petco of Batavia is the official sponsor of the event and will supply doggy bags to the owners of the participating dogs.

Event Date and Time
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Weiner Dog Races set for Aug. 29 at Batavia Downs Casino

By Billie Owens

Batavia Downs Casino will hold its annual Weiner Dog Races and Family Fun Day on Sunday, Aug. 29.

The whole family is invited to visit with Mr. Scribbles, Pringles the Clown, and get free pony rides 2 to 4 p.m. for the kids. Sahlens hot dogs and sodas will be just $1 at the Paddock Room concession stand beginning at noon.

At approximately 4:30 p.m., the Weiner Dogs will take to the track! Petco of Batavia is the official sponsor of the event and will supply doggy bags to the owners of the participating dogs.

This year, six separate heats will be held with the fastest dachshund that dashes down the track in each heat declared the winner. The winners will be given an opportunity to race in the championship following the final heat and compete for prizes. Last year, Jean Smart’s 2-year-old dachshund, “Jake Arnold," was a narrow winner.

If you would like to enter your dachshund, please contact Arna Tygart at 343-3750, ext 437 beginning July 26.

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