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Batavia Republicans set two public forums

By Billie Owens

The City of Batavia Republican Committee has set up two nights to meet the At-Large Republican Candidates. The first night is at the Polish Falcons at 7 p.m. on Thursday Oct. 1. The second night will be at 7 p.m. on Oct. 8 at 7 p.m. at Notre Dame.

All three Republican candidates -- Ferrando, Clattenburg and Buckley -- will be there.

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Salvation Army hosts Harvest Festival Oct. 2

By Billie Owens

The Salvation Army will host a Harvest Festival on Friday, Oct. 2 at its gymnasium, located at 529 E. Main St. in Batavia.

There will be a huge rummage sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with used clothing, toys, books, linens, electric goods, furniture, houseware and more.

There will be lots of food available for sale, including breakfast sandwiches, hot dogs, cold plates, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, sweet potato fries, French fries, sausage sandwiches, salads, soft drinks and popcorn.

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Red Cross to hold blood drive at GCC Oct. 7-8

By Billie Owens

The American Red Cross will be having a community blood drive at Genesee Community College from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday Oct. 7-8. Your generous donation of blood is very much needed and greatly appreciated. Could you take some time to give to this critical cause?
 

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Volunteers for Animals needs your vote

By Billie Owens

Local animal lovers are competing for a big-money grant and need your vote in order to win.

The Animal Rescue Site, along with Petfinder, launched the $100,000 Shelter + Challenge on Sept. 14.

The Animal Rescue Site is awarding $100,000 in grants to eligible Petfinder.com member rescue organizations to help animals. The grand prize is a $20,000 grant, and there are many other prizes!

Visit the link below to vote - it only takes a minute. You don't have to register, and voting is free. Support Volunteers For Animals and vote every day!  Thank you!

Shelter Name: Volunteers For Animals
State: NY
City: Batavia

Then hit Search to vote.

Thank you for your help and please ask your friends to help out by voting each day. Together we can make a difference.

Click here: Vote for Volunteers For Animals @ The Animal Rescue Site

Thanks,
The Cats and Dogs at the Genesee County Animal Shelter

GCC proud of coach's induction into Golden Eagle Hall of Fame

By Billie Owens

Genesee Community College is pleased to announce head softball coach and sports information director Kristen Clark will be inducted into the SUNY Brockport Golden Eagle Athletic Hall of Fame on Saturday, Sept. 26. The highly decorated coach and athlete will be inducted for her performances in basketball, softball and for her participation in the 2003 Women's Basketball team.

Clark joined Genesee's athletic department in 2004 as the head coach of the Lady Cougar Softball team. She is a 2003 graduate of SUNY Brockport with a Bachelor's of Science degree in Business Administration, plus 54 credits toward a sports management concentration. She received her Master's degree from California University of Pennsylvania.

While at Brockport, she was a two-sport athlete in basketball and softball, where she was an All-American and broke many school records. These included career records with best Earned Runs Average (1.18), most games pitched, most wins (69), and most strikeouts (639) for the Eagles Softball team. For the basketball program, she holds most points in a season (596), highest scoring average in a season (20.6), second career all time leading scorer (1780), and second career all time rebound leader.

Clark was also nominated for the 2004 College Sportswoman of the Year and was inducted into the J.P. Morgan Chase Basketball Tournament Hall of Fame. She has also earned State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC) Women's Basketball Player of the Week honors multiple times.

"Personally, I would say that Kristen is incredibly hard-working and a role model not only for the women on the College's softball team, but for all athletes," said Becky Dziekan, Genesee's director of Health and Physical Education. "I think Genesee Community College is very lucky to have her on staff."

Before joining the Cougar team, Kristen was the assistant basketball coach at Brockport where she helped with recruiting, planning and fundraising throughout the season. She is on the SUNY Brockport Alumni Association Board. She was recently married to David Schuth and they reside in Spencerport.

For further information please contact Margaret Sisson, athletic director at Genesee Community College at 585-343-0055 x6239.

Davey O., Greengage live at Glass Roots tonight

By Billie Owens

Two great bands will perform live tonight at Glass Roots, located at 12 Center St. in Batavia. Both groups play roots rock/Americana.

Greengage will play an early show at 6 p.m., then Davey O. will take the stage at 8. Afterward, Greengage will return to the stage for the final performance of the evening.

Davey O. was voted the 2004 Artvoice Readers' Choice Award winner, coming off its tour as the opening act for Poco.

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Elba Historical Society to hold annual beef dinner and Chinese auction

By Billie Owens

The Historical Society of Elba will have its annual Roast Beef Dinner and Chinese Auction on Wednesday, Oct. 7 at the Elba Firemen's Recreation Hall on Route 98.

Come join us for a delicious buffet dinner of tender roast beef, Elba mashed potatoes, rich brown gravy, golden squash, cabbage salad, pickled beets, bread/rolls and a tempting assortment of pies, cakes and cookies. Coffee, tea or milk will be served.

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Bicycle rally Saturday to renovate 100-year-old church

By Billie Owens

St. James’ Episcopal Church and the Landmark Society of Genesee County are hosting a bike rally from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26.

The event will raise money for renovations to the 100-year-old stone church located at 405 E. Main St., Batavia. (The rain date is scheduled for Oct. 3.)

Adam Miller Toys & Bikes will be at the church and will check over bikes beginning at 8 a.m.. There will be refreshments, prizes and tours of the church.

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Nursing job fair Oct. 1 at GCC's Batavia campus

By Billie Owens

Genesee Community College will conduct the annual fall Nursing Job Fair from noon to 3 p.m. on Oct. 1 in the Forum at the Batavia Campus.

This is the first academic year that two nursing classes will be graduating from Genesee, one in December 2009 and the second in May 2010.

More than 20 local and regional health care companies will be available to answer questions, accept resumes and distribute material relating to their company's nursing employment and continued educational opportunities.

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Adopt-A-Pet: Dutchess and Buddy

By Billie Owens

I'm Dutchess. But don't let my name fool you -- I'm not a snooty lady! Oh, quite the contrary. My lineage is boxer/pit bull mix, I've been spayed and, seemingly, I am housebroken. Inarguably, I am sweet to people and other dogs. My leash manners are commendable. If you would like to take me home and love me, I would be royally grateful.

Buddy here. They say I'm a nice-guy kitten with an affectionate, outgoing personality. I give clues about the real me by doing things like jumping on your shoulder and snuggling against your cheek. My purr is evidence that my motor runs smoothly. Oh, yes, I am sweet, too. Though I like Halloween as much as the next kid, I don't take things personally. If my onyx-colored, gleaming, gorgeous fur frightens anyone, I just hiss and say "Boo!" That'll show 'em. Let's go trick-or-treating together, OK?

And animal lovers: Don't forget about entering your pets into our Pet of the Week Contest. If your pet is worthy of pet of the week, have him or her e-mail us at pets (at) the batavian dot com.  Please have your pet send a handsome picture and his or her story. Click here for more information. Your pet could win a $10 gift certificate from Genesee Feeds.

Explore the mysterious world of bats

By Billie Owens

Are you afraid of bats? Are you intrigued by bats?

Join "bat lady" Liz Thompson, as she shares her passion for bats. Learn about bats from around the world, popular bat myths and uncover the many ways in which bats help humankind.

This event takes place from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3. at the Genesee County Park & Forest Interpretive Nature Center, 11095 Bethany Center Rd., in East Bethany.

Cost is $5 per person or $10 per family. Pre-registration required. Call 585-344-1122 to register.

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Medics enroute to aid fallen jockey at Batavia Downs

By Billie Owens

Mercy EMS is enroute to Batavia Downs Casino and Racetrack, 3315 Park Road, for a report of a jockey who has fallen from a jogging cart at the track.

UPDATE: Medics are on site after entering the Richmond Avenue gate.

UPDATE (1:30 p.m.): Emergency responders are enroute to Erie County Medical Center.

Phase 2 of tech and manufacturing park approved

By Billie Owens

The approval of $1 million for Phase 2 of the Western New York Technology and Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP) was granted by the Empire State Development Corporation today.

Senator Michael Ranzenhofer was among those who applauded the allocation to help build the Western New York Technology and Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP). He sent along this press release:

“The WNY STAMP park project allows Genesee County to compete in a 21st Century global economy. The project paves the way for technologically advanced companies that manufacture computer chips, semi-conductors and photovoltaic cells for solar power to locate in Western New York. This project would create over 9,300 jobs here in Western New York."

The WNY STAMP park has been planned as a prime mega-site, suitable for large scale advanced manufacturing projects. The 1,340 acre project, located in Alabama near the intersection of Route 77 and Judge Road, will be the second of only one other similar park in New York State. Phase II of the project allows the Genesee County Economic Development Center to complete design and engineering work.

Senator Ranzenhofer expressed appreciation to the efforts of many to move the project to the next phase.

“I would like to thank Senator Mary Lou Rath, Senator Bill Stachowski, Assemblyman Steve Hawley, Assemblyman Dan Burling, Genesee County Economic Development Center President and CEO Steve Hyde and the Empire State Development Corporation for their tireless efforts to create a business-friendly environment and create jobs in Western New York."

Genesee County Economic Development Center President and CEO Steve Hyde had this to say:

“The WNY STAMP (Science, Technology, Advanced Manufacturing Park) project, located in close proximity to the NYS Thruway in the Town of Alabama, Genesee County, is a transformational regional effort which will, over the long term, help to transform Western NY’s economy from Buffalo to Rochester by growing high paying, advance manufacturing and technology oriented jobs. This...site is being developed as NY’s next generation Mega-Site similar to Luther Forest, the home of Global Foundries and AMD’s recent multi-billion investment.

"...I, along with many of the elected officials and people of Genesee County and the region, would like to thank Senator Ranzenhofer, and his predecessor Senator Rath, for all the support and hard work that has gone into helping WNY STAMP become a reality.” 

Batavia city residents wanted for duty on boards and committees

By Billie Owens

The Batavia City Council and city manager are seeking city residents who are interested in volunteering as a member of the following committees and boards:

  • Board of Assessment Review: One opening in Ward 1
  • Cable TV Advisory Board: Five openings
  • Historic Preservation Commission: One opening in Ward 1
  • Mall Operating Committee: One opening
  • Neighborhood Improvement Committee: One opening with no ward restriction; one opening in Ward 2; one opening in Ward 3; two openings for Landlord
  • Planning & Development Committee: One opening in Ward 1; one opening in Ward 2; one opening in Ward 3; one opening in Ward 6
  • Youth Board: Four openings        
  • Zoning Board of Appeals: One opening in Ward 2; one opening in Ward 4; one opening in Ward 5

Residents interested in applying can obtain an application from the City Clerk’s Office or can visit they city's website and download a Committee/Board Application under Downloadable Forms. 

Please submit applications to the Clerk’s Office, One Batavia City Centre, Batavia, NY 14020, as soon as possible to ensure boards/committees will be at full capacity once current terms expire.

If you are currently on a board and your appointment is expiring but you still want to serve and are eligible (based on term limits), please call the Clerk’s Office at (585) 345-6305 and let them know. You do not need to submit a new application.  

Mercy Flight Golf Outing raises $7,500

By Billie Owens

Gray skies and cool temperatures didn’t stop 36 four-person teams from hitting the Terry Hills course Wednesday for the Mercy Flight Golf Outing.

The foursome of Mike Sassone, Nick Galante, Rhone Wallace and Chris Rickard finished first in the tournament, but the big winner was clearly Mercy Flight of Western New York. More than $7500 was raised for the Batavia site of the independent, not-for-profit provider of emergency air medical transport.

The outing was the second fundraiser sponsored by Batavia Downs Casino in the past three weeks that benefited Mercy Flight. A Family Fun Day at the harness track on Aug. 30 also raised over $7500.

Tournament chairman Fred Hamilton said, “We are thrilled with the great turnout and generous support of the sponsors and golfers in our first attempt at staging a quality golf outing. We look forward to the challenge of topping this year’s event next September.”

Adopt-A-Pet: Lewis and Buckwheat

By Billie Owens

I'm three-year-old Lewis and as you can see I'm a beagle. Is there a better dog than a Snoopy dog? I'm neutered, polite, friendly and enjoy people and dogs alike. In fact, I think all mammals are good mammals. I walk nicely on a leash and am not the demanding type. If you would like a new BFF (best friend forever), then come and get me (OK that's a demand) and the sooner the better.

They named me, get this, "Buckwheat." But what's a name -- just letters that's all. I'm a neutered male kitten with long orange and wheat-colored fur (hmm, that explains things). Unfortunately, the volunteer snapped my picture just after I stuck my paw in a light socket. Boy was that a shocker! Well, that's one down and eight lives to go. Just joking! Anyways, my fur is still kittenish and I have to grown into it, or something like that. Is your heart tugging? Can't you just sense my sweetness? Go with it. Don't overthink it. I'll be waiting for you.

Volunteers For Animals
PO Box 1621
Batavia, NY   14021
www.vol4animals.org <http://www.vol4animals.org>

Working in partnership with:
Genesee County Animal Shelter
3841 W. Main Street Road
Batavia, NY  14020
(585) 343-6410

Adoption Hours
Sunday through Friday: 1 to 3 p.m. (closed Thursdays)
Wednesday: 7 to 9 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

And don't forget to nominate your pet for Pet-of-the-Week, a new winner chosen by Pachuco every Friday. Your pet could win a $10 gift certificate from Genesee Feeds.  And remember, more kinds of pets than just dogs and cats are eligible to win.

Cornell Cooperative Extension announces fall classes

By Billie Owens

Cornell Cooperative Extension will be offering its popular coffee-and-dessert series again this fall.

"Hands on with the Harvest" participants enjoy a cup of coffee or tea along with desserts homemade by the Master Gardeners. This season programs will run from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Extension Center on East Main Street in Batavia and will include:
 
September 28Putting Your Garden to Bed. Your gardening tasks do not end with that killing frost. There are many things you can do in your garden to assure gardening success next spring.  Let Maud Charpin, a certified Master Gardener, share her knowledge and tips with you.
 
October 14Creating a Back Yard Habitat. Join birding expert Jan Beglinger as she shows you the basics of creating a backyard habitat and helps you to create the right conditions to invite a host of birds, butterflies and other species to your backyard.
 
October 28
Growing Culinary Herbs at Home. Would you like fresh herbs through the winter?  Find out how to grow them on your windowsill. Master Gardener Paul Saskowski will also be covering what herbs are good for cooking and how to incorporate herbs into your landscaping.
 
Cost is $10 per class and limited to 15 participants per class. Pre-register by stopping by the Extension Center located at 420 East Main Street in Batavia, visit the website at www.genesee.shutterfly.com <http://www.genesee.shutterfly.com/> , or contact Amy at 343-3040, ext. 106.
 

Volunteers for Animals needs your vote

By Billie Owens

Local animal lovers are competing for a big grant and need your vote in order to win.

The Animal Rescue Site, along with Petfinder, launched the $100,000 Shelter + Challenge on Sept. 14.

The Animal Rescue Site is awarding $100,000 in grants to eligible Petfinder.com member rescue organizations to help animals. The grand prize is a $20,000 grant, and there are many other prizes!

Visit the link below to vote - it only takes a minute. You don't have to register, and voting is free. Support Volunteers For Animals and vote every day!  Thank you!

Shelter Name: Volunteers For Animals
State: NY
City: Batavia

Then hit Search to vote.

Thank you for your help and please ask your friends to help out by voting each day. Together we can make a difference.

Click here: Vote for Volunteers For Animals @ The Animal Rescue Site <http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com/clickToGive/shelterchallenge.faces?siteId=3&amp;link=ctg_ars_shelterchallenge_from_home_sidetabs>


Thanks,
The Cats and Dogs at the Genesee County Animal Shelter


 

BHS Class of '59 holds reunion this weekend

By Billie Owens

The Batavia High School Class of 1959 will hold its 50-year reunion in Batavia this weekend.

The event will begin on at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 with a mixer at TF Brown's on East Main Street.

At 10 a.m. on Saturday, the former students will walk the halls once again as they tour their old school building. In the afternoon, the elderly duffers will take to the links beginning at 1 p.m. for a 9-hole round of golf.

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