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Lady Blue devils advance in Section V tournament

By Howard B. Owens

Tiara Filbert led the way with 23 points for the Lady Blue Devils on Friday night, helping to propel Batavia to a 59-22 win over Eastridge in their Section V playoff game.

Ryann Stefaniak and Taylor Stefaniak each scored 14 points.

Also, Friday, Elba girls beat Belfast 63-49.

In boys basketball, Oakfield-Alabama fell to Geneseo, 37-59.

Congressman Collins announces U.S. Naval Academy’s Summer programs

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Congressman Chris Collins today released the following statement announcing the United States Naval Academy’s Summer Programs and encouraging all eligible high school students in New York’s 27thCongressional District to apply.

“One of my most rewarding responsibilities as a Member of Congress is making nominations to our Military Academies,” Congressman Collins said. “The summer programs provided by the Naval Academy will be a valuable resource to students who are interested in pursuing an appointment to any of the U.S. service academies. The summer programs will challenge students to develop problem-solving techniques and team-building mentalities, and I encourage all interested students to apply.”

The United States Naval Academy offers two summer programs, the Naval Academy Summer Seminar and the Summer Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) seminar. Both of the programs offered will provide students with valuable insight as they continue to pursue their academic enrollment in one of the United States service academies. 

The Naval Academy Summer Seminar is a fast-paced, six-day experience that aims to educate participants about life at the Academy. This program also demonstrates how academic study, athletics, and professional training continues to be a crucial factor in developing our nation’s leaders. The STEM program is a hands-on, design-based program that aims to enhance the participants’ interest in science and technology. By implementing team-building exercises, this program is a valuable opportunity for students who are interested in pursuing a STEM-based career within one of the service academies.

For more information about the USNA’s Summer Programs, please visit http://www.usna.edu/Admissions/index.php.

4-H Youth Development program to offer four Spring Break Workshops for ALL youths ages 5 to 19

By Billie Owens

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County 4-H Youth Development Program will be offering Spring Break Workshops open to all youth ages 5-19. Youth do not need to be 4-H members to participate! Come learn while having fun in the featured workshops:

Kids in the Kitchen! -- Monday, March 21, at 1 p.m. -- Come learn basic kitchen skills while making easy recipes that will have you a kitchen champion in no time! The cost is $5.00 per youth.

Livestock Skillathon -- Tuesday, March 22, at 10 a.m. -- Have fun exploring the breeds of beef, goat, sheep, swine, feedstuffs, equipment and more!  Free.

Knit an Infinity Scarf -- Wednesday, March 23, at 1 p.m. -- Boy, girl, left- or right-handed, come learn how to knit an infinity scarf! The cost is $5 per youth.

Ribbon-Woven Headband -- Thursday, March 24, 10:30 a.m. -- Learn how to make a ribbon-woven headband! This workshop is designed for youth ages 8 to 12. The cost is $5 per youth.

Class sizes are limited and pre-registration is required as all materials will be provided. The workshops will be held at the Cornell Cooperative Extension building located at 420 E. Main St., Batavia with payment taken at the door. For more information or to register, contact Brandie Schultz at the Genesee County 4-H Office, 585-343-3040, ext. 101.

Assemblyman Hawley announces mobile veterans services app

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced that a new free mobile app, compatible with iOS and Android, is available for veterans and their family members to help them connect with important programs and resources.

The New York State Veterans App provides users with information on healthcare, housing, education, employment and a host of other issues at the touch of a finger.

“Our state is home to nearly one million veterans and helping them easily access vital programs and services is extremely important,” Hawley said. “Far too often, our veterans are not aware of the help available to them and are left without a strong support system.

"This announcement perfectly illustrates how government can better serve citizens through technology and how knowledge can be easily accessed by those who need it most. I look forward to using this app myself and informing my constituents on this breakthough in veterans’ affairs services.”

Hawley is a veteran himself and serves as Ranking Republican Member of the Assembly’s Veterans Affairs Committee.

Kindergarten registration begins March 1 for city schools

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Jackson Primary School staff is looking forward to welcoming new students for 2016-2017!

Registration for children eligible to begin kindergarten in the 2016-2017 school year starts March 1. Children who will be 5 years old on or before Dec. 1, 2016, are eligible. Registration is at the Batavia City School District’s Business Office, located in the administration wing of Batavia High School (260 State St.), on school days between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

To register a child, parents must bring:

  • Proof of Residency (evidence of physical address), which must be two (2) of the following: (We will make copies for our records)
    • Mortgage statement/lease
    • Electric or gas bill
    • Water bill        
    • Cable bill
    • Letter from attorney/realtor on their letterhead with confirmation of address and anticipated moving/closing date.
    • School tax bill
  • Current payroll check
  •  Child’s birth certificate
  •  Child’s Social Security card and
  •  Child’s complete immunization records.

Parents of all new students to the district are also asked to register their child in the Business Office with the same documentation.

Current 2015-2016 UPK students will be directly provided with information to complete for registration into kindergarten by mail

If you have questions, please call the Business Office at 343-2480, ext. 1002.

National Safe Tractor & Machinery Operation Program offered for 4-H youths ages 14 and 15

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Currently, 4-H programming features the National Safe Tractor & Machinery Operation Program.  

This course will qualify enrolled 4-H youth ages 14 and 15 years of age to be certified to operate farm equipment for hire. The course is scheduled to run from January through March.

The training program encompasses 32 hours of intensive instruction. Upon the completion of the training, each student will be required to take a 50-question knowledge test with a minimum passing score of 70 percent. Students who successfully pass the knowledge test will be permitted to take the Skills and Driving tests. After passing both the written test and driving tests, the students will receive their formal certification from U.S. Department of Labor.

Parents say the program allows youth to operate equipment legally, be employable, and increases self-confidence, emergency preparedness skills, and knowledge.

Training youth in safer tractor operation is a high priority in Genesee County. Our young people living and working on farms operate a variety of agricultural equipment, including tractors.

Thank you to the tireless volunteers that lead this training, and to the youth that participate. For more information, contact us at 585-343-3040 or visit http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County is the outreach arm for Cornell University in Genesee County. We provide research based knowledge addressing unmet needs for the residents of Genesee County. We are also the home to 4-H, which is the largest out-of-school youth organization in the United States with more than 6 million youth members.

4-H Clubs, camps, after-school programs, and trips help youth reach their fullest potential.  Members have opportunities to connect to Cornell University, learn through hands-on activities, lead, be inspired, inspire others, and so much more. 4-H helps kids to do better in school, learn to help others, and feel more capable and responsible.

Driver with allegedly expired driving permit-only tries to flee from cops

By Billie Owens

A driver who was being followed by police in the city allegedly sped up and tried to evade officers somewhere off East Avenue, then stopped his vehicle and fled on foot. The driver is believed to have an expired driving permit only, not a license. He was driving a white vehicle with a broken bumper when a caller reported him to dispatch. Also, the person was the subject earlier today of a harassment complaint.

Scott German to seek fourth term as treasurer

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Genesee County Treasurer Scott D. German announced today that he will be seeking a fourth term as County Treasurer in this November’s election.

German is in his 23rd year in the office, the last 12 of which have been as Treasurer. Among the many accomplishments of the Treasurer’s Office is the extremely successful 2010 refinancing of county debt, which saved Genesee County taxpayers more than $1,000,000 in interest expense over six years. Another highlight of German’s tenure is the successful office merger with Real Property. Merging operations with the Real Property Department has allowed for the sharing of resources, which in turn has saved county taxpayers money.

As Treasurer, German is the chief fiscal officer and tax enforcement officer for the County. Among a wide range of responsibilities as County Treasurer, German is responsible for the safeguarding of all county monies, the processing of county payroll, the processing of vendor payments, collection of delinquent taxes, tax foreclosures, maintaining the accounting records, overseeing of the independent audit and working with state and federal auditors.

German hopes the voters of Genesee County return him to office this November so he can continue serving the people of this fine county.

German holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management with a concentration in Finance from the State University of New York, College at Brockport. German is a past president (2012) of the New York State County Treasurers and Finance Officers Association and currently serves as one of two New York State delegates to the National Association of County Collectors, Treasurers & Finance Officers. He is also a member of the 2004 class of Leadership Genesee. German is a lifelong resident of Genesee County.

Sheron announces Walker will be undersheriff if he's elected to sheriff

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Undersheriff William A. Sheron Jr., who recently announced his intention to seek the Republican endorsement for this fall’s election to Genesee County Sheriff, announced today that Sergeant Gregory H. Walker will join him as his Undersheriff.

Walker, 50, has more than 30 years of law enforcement experience, serving two years with the Attica Police Department before joining the Genesee County Sheriff’ s Office in October 1987. Over the course of his 28-year career with the Sheriff’s Office, Walker has served in the ranks of Deputy Sheriff-Road Patrol, Investigator, Sergeant-Road Patrol and his current position of Sergeant-Criminal Investigation Division.

Sergeant Walker is a graduate of the Monroe Community College Public Safety Training Academy-Basic Course for Police Officers, New York State Municipal Police Training Council on Police Supervision Course, United States Drug Enforcement Agency Drug Law Enforcement Course, New York State Division of Criminal Justice Field Training Officer, New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services General Topics Instructor, the International Association of Chiefs of Police/National Highway Traffic Safety Association Drug Recognition Expert Instructor and the F.B.I. National Academy in Quantico, Va.

Walker became the first certified Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) in Genesee County and now serves as one of the lead instructors for the DRE program in New York State. He is also a Field Training Officer, Field Training Supervisor, Standardized Field Sobriety Tests Instructor, Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement Instructor, Domestic Violence Resource Officer and Drug Impairment for Educational Professionals Instructor.

Over his career Walker has received numerous departmental awards including Officer of the Year in 1990; Meritorious Service in 1989, 1991, 1992, 1995, 2003, 2008, 2012; Commendation awards in 1992, 1994 and 2013; and Kiwanis Club Officer of the Year in 1991.

Sergeant Walker currently serves on the New York State Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Technical Advisory Panel (TAP) and is a regional coordinator for the DRE program. Walker is an active member of the Le Roy Republican Committee.

Sergeant Walker is a resident of the Town of Le Roy. He is a graduate of Attica Central School and Genesee Community College with a degree in Criminal Justice. He and his wife, Michele, are parents to a family of five children and one grandchild.

“I could not ask for a better person to join me as my Undersheriff. Greg is an outstanding individual of the utmost integrity who is extremely well respected amongst the law enforcement community. Together we possess nearly 50 years of law enforcement administrative and supervisory experience, which is crucial in directing the operations of the Sheriff’s Office,” said Undersheriff Sheron.

Law and Order: Trooper reports seeing driver doing donuts in fire hall parking lot, makes arrest on DWI charge

By Howard B. Owens

Keith C. Michels, 38, of Alden, is charged with DWI and uninspected motor vehicle. With a state Trooper parked nearby and watching, Michels was observed doing donuts in the parking lot of the Alexander Fire Department on Route 98, Alexander. Upon further investigation, the Trooper allegedly observed that the vehicle did not have a current inspection sticker and the Trooper reported detecting the odor of alcohol emanating from Michels. Michels was transported to the Batavia Barracks of the State Police where he was allegedly found to have a BAC of .13.

Ian RIchard Eli Tarbell Sr., 43, of State Route 37, Hogansburg, is charged with transport and sale of 4,800 cartons of untaxed cigarettes, failure to keep right and moving from lane unsafely. Tarbell was stopped at 8:42 a.m. Thursday on Route 77, Pembroke, by Deputy Lonnie Nati. Tarbell was jailed on $100,000 bail.

James Francis Scharf, 50, of Walker Lake Ontario Road, Hilton, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt and trespass. Scharf was arrested on a warrant issued by Oakfield Town Court and jailed on $2,500 bail.

Andrew Charles Webster, 22, of Gilette Road, Alexander, is charged with petit larceny. Webster was arrested on a warrant. He was jailed on $2,000 bail or $4,000 bond.

Batavia HS girls track team continues impressive run of sectional titles

By Howard B. Owens

The Batavia High School Girls Track and Field Team won its 12th sectional championship Wednesday, scoring 154 points while second place Wayland-Cohocton had 67 points.

The boys team came in second at 105.5 points, just behind Greece Olympia, with 124.

Individual winners for the Blue Devils were: Katherine Wiseley in the weight throw; Rachel Denise in the pole vault; Maddi Moore in the 1500m race walk; and Sophia Dinehart in the 1500 meter. Other girls who had good performances were Maggie Cecere, Kiaya Franklin, Celia Flynn, Claire Zickl, Sam Cohen, Lizzy Cohen and Brianna Bromley.

"The Batavia girls were able to score in every event and had many solid performances and season-best times," said Coach Nicholas Burk.

For the boys, Anthony Ray continued his run of success this season by winning both the shot put and the weight throw.

Other boys who had good performances were Jaysen Wylie, Anthony Gallo, Campbell Andersen, Cal Jantzi, Louie Leone, Ian SanFratello, Nick Callisher and Mike Hughes. 

For complete results, click here.

Information and photo provided by Coach Nicholas Burk.

Batavia Warming Center will open tonight

By Howard B. Owens

With freezing wind chills expected, the Batavia Warming Center will be open for women and children.

Transportation is available by calling (585) 993-6371 by 8:30 p.m. Arrangements will be made to pick up those going to the shelter at either McDonald's in Batavia.

Freezing rain advisory issued

By Howard B. Owens

The National Weather Service is expecting freezing rain to hit the area tomorrow morning.

An advisory has been issued for 7 a.m. through 1 p.m., Friday.

Untreated roadways are expected to be slick, especially on elevated surfaces such as bridges and overpasses. Travel conditions could be hazardous.

Both drivers and pedestrians should be on the lookout for slick spots on roads and sidewalks. Walking and driving could be difficult.

An experiment in local news publishing

By Howard B. Owens

You know us over here at The Batavian, we're always willing to experiment.

There's been a few publications recently, such as Wired Magazine, that are offering versions of their online editions without ads, or with fewer ads, to paid subscribers.

We thought we would give that idea a try.  

Here is a version of The Batavian without ads for you to try.

You can take this survey and let us know what you think.

If you have any questions, you can e-mail me at howard@thebatavian.com. Also, let me know if you run into any technical glitches.

Anticipating one question I know the will come up: The main site, The Batavian, will remain sponsor supported and free.  

Today's Deals: Jagged Edges Salon, The Little Ridge, LJ Nails, Fortune's, Rancho Viejo, and more!

By Billie Owens

Jagged Edges Salon, 4140 Veterans Memorial Drive, Batavia, NY 14020: Jagged Edges Salon is a walk-in and appointment salon for men, women and children. It is a fun, welcoming salon that offers all hair care services including cuts, color, highlights, lowlights, perms, styling/updos, treatments, and facial waxing. Hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Smokin' Eagle BBQ & Brew, 9 Main St., Le Roy, NY. The kind of downhome, laid-back and comfortable place that just feels right. Open daily for lunch, dinner and drinks, this eatery and bar features a variety of eats and drinks that are outstanding. Specializing in smoked meats -- each meat is dry rubbed with a proprietary mix of seasonings, then smoked slowly in their on-site smoker for maximum flavor and tenderness. With a variety of appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, combo platters and entrées, there's always plenty of choice for even picky eaters. Great food, frosty brews and some of the best folk around call the Smokin' Eagle BBQ & Brew their favorite -- make it your favorite today! Don't forget to ask about our catering! We have a $20 gift card for $9.50.

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 $10 gift card for $4.

Rochester Club West @ Bohn's, 5256 Clinton Street Road (Route 33), Batavia, NY 14020: Formerly Bohn's, the restaurant is now under new management with a new name. Enjoy fine dining in casual elegance amid beautiful dark woods and skylights. This ideal location centrally located to both Buffalo, Rochester and surrounding areas offers extensive menu selections, freshly prepared foods and quality service. Entrees include prime rib, Gateau of Crepes (vegetarian), seafood, steaks, chicken and pasta, heavenly desserts, full bar. Dinner is served Thursday 4 to 9 p.m., Friday & Saturday 4 to 10 p.m., & Sunday 4 to 8 p.m. The restaurant is also open on some major holidays such as New Year's Eve, Valentine’s Day, Easter Sunday Brunch, Mother's Day Brunch and others. Sunday Specials, and on Thursday Early Bird dining is available. Private parties may be scheduled anytime for any style event, including corporate events, conferences and business meetings, wedding receptions, rehearsals and showers, sports banquets, memorial events and all kinds of social events. Accommodating parties as small as 10 people and over 200 people, our experienced banquet and catering personnel are available to assist you in planning your event both on and off premises. Phone 344-1543. We have a $20 gift certificate for $12.

M&M Meats and Archery, 3316 Pearl Street Road, Batavia, NY 14020: Quality meats at reasonable prices -- serving the area for over 8 years. Custom butchering and deer processing available. Try our famous Pepperstick and jerky. We are an authorized PSE Bow dealer. Stop in to our market or call us at 716-982-5718 or 585-322-4342. We have a $10 gift certificate for $4.

Center Street Smoke House, 20 Center St., Batavia, NY: Authentic Southern BBQ, from ribs to brisket with all the fixin's. We have a $20 gift card for $9.50.

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 $9.50.

Blue Pearl Yoga, 200 E. Main St., Batavia, NY: Stretch your body and soul with yoga. This offer is for a $20 gift certificate for the price of $5. Not good with any other discounts or offers. Excludes workshops.

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

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 $8.

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

John & Mary's Restaurant, 3711 W. Main Street Road, Batavia, NY: This popular restaurant offers a varied menu that people love. From subs, hoagies, hand-tossed pizza, and wings, to fish & chips, salads, Mexican food, gyros and other Greek fare, it's all here. Only the finest and freshest ingredients are used. Bread, using homemade dough, baked fresh daily. Amazing specialty pizzas and appetizers! "We never waver on quality!" Delivery available all day, every day. We offer catering. Hours 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. We have a $10 gift certificate for $4.

The Little Ridge, 107 Evans St., Batavia NY, 14020: The Little Ridge continues the long-standing history of fantastic food from Batavia's local favorite, Delavan's. Fine dining and family fare combine to offer the best of both. We offer Friday night Fish Fry, prime rib dinner on Saturdays, steaks, burgers, salads, and classic Italian dishes. Open Tuesday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Phone 815-5118. Take-outs available. Kids' menu. Weekly and daily lunch and dinner specials. On Saturday, breakfast is served from 9 to 11 a.m. Good food, good friends, good times! We have a $25 gift certificate for $15.

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

Fortune's Restaurant inside Batavia Downs, 8315 Park Road, Batavia, NY 14020: Italian-style menu, drinks in one of the region's most popular entertainment venues. We have a $25 gift certificate for $15. (Must be new or current Players Club member to redeem.)

Chap's Elba Diner, 5 S. Main St., Elba, NY 14058: Great food, excellent service in a friendly, family atmosphere await you at this small-town diner featuring breakfast, lunch, weekly specials and all-you-can-eat dinner options. Catering, too! Home of the Muck Plate and Mrs. Bennett's Ham Loaf. Other favorites include Steak Diane, San Francisco Chicken, genuine Hungarian goulash, All-American chicken 'n' biscuits, Friday fish fry. Soups are fresh and tasty. Hours are: Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Phone is 757-5001. We have a $10 gift certificate for $4.

The Original Woody's Deli, 47 North St., Le Roy, NY 14482: It's all here at Woody's "The Corner Deli" -- Made-to-order, hand-battered chicken tenders, homemade cannolis and soups, specialty pizza, wraps, hot and cold subs, Mexican favorites, fresh salads, Garbage Plates, Kids' Menu, wings, catering, delivery. Hours are Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday noon to 8 p.m. Stop by today! Or phone in your order 768-8585. We have a $10 gift certificate for $4.

LJ Nails Hands. Feet. Wax., 583 E. Main St., Batavia NY 14020: Pamper yourself with top-quality manicures, luxurious pedicures in massaging spa chairs, gel and acrylic nails and custom design work, waxing, and more in a safe environment with all equipment sanitized and clean. Gift certificates available. Hours are Monday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed Sunday. Stop in, call 344-8888, or check us out on Facebook @.https://www.facebook.com/ljnailsbatavia. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

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 $12.

RULES

[Last updated Feb. 6, 2016. Subject to change without notice.]

NOTE: A $1 PayPal service fee applies on items more than $10. The fee is 50 cents on items $10 and below.

The gift certificate must be used by within 30 days of purchase, unless it states otherwise. It is not valid with other offers, has no cash value, and does not include gratuities. Only one gift certificate per-merchant, per-household every SIX months. Gift certificates cannot be combined with other offers without prior approval of the merchant. Gift certificates bought separately cannot be combined for a single purchase. Individuals buying gift certificates must use their own personal PayPal account for the purchase. For hair and nail salons, good for services only, not products.

How to Win: Purchase using the PayPal "Buy Now" button below. After the first person to hit the "buy now" button completes the purchase, PayPal will let you know that the item has been sold. ***Most of the time, multiple gift certificates are available for sale per business, but you can only buy one per business, so just select the "Buy Now" button ONCE to avoid duplicate sales. Unless other arrangements are made immediately after purchase, the gift certificate will mailed to the winner at his or her PayPal-provided postal address within two or three days of purchase.

ENDED

Notre Dame notches first round win in boys basketball playoff

By Howard B. Owens

Sparked by a string of three-point buckets in the 2nd quarter, Notre Dame built an insurmountable lead over Fillmore in a first-round Class D Section V playoff game and ran away with the victory, 58-42.

Half of Fillmore's points came in the final quarter while Notre Dame rested some starters. Fillmore scored only eight, six and seven points in each of the respective first three quarters.

Tyler Prospero led the Irish with 19 points and Casey Midwick added 13.

In other local boys basketball playoff games Wednesday night:

  • Oakfield-Alabama beat Keshequa 65-51 to advance in Class C2. Ryan Douglas scored 18 points;
  • Pembroke, seeded #5, was upset by #12 seed Gananda, 38-37 in Class C.  Zach Von Kramer scored 11 and Reid Miano, 10.

In the girls games:

  • Alexander beat Red Creek 54-42. Stephany McBride scored 10 points;
  • Pembroke fell to Avon 17-26. Olivia Kohorst scored eight for Pembroke;
  • Notre Dame beat Addison 39-30. Rebecca Krenzer scored 12;
  • Cal-Mum beat Byron-Bergen 46-34. Dana Van Valkenberg scored eight points;
  • Oakfield-Alabama beat Cuba-Rushford 60-17. Brianna Smith scored 13.

Schedule:

  • Le Roy boys (12-8) vs. Wellsville (16-4), 7 p.m., Friday, at Wellsville;
  • Batavia boys (13-7) vs. Monroe (8-13), 4 p.m., Saturday, at Batavia;
  • Oakfield-Alabama boys (12-9) vs. Geneseo (16-5), Friday, time and place TBA;
  • Notre Dame boys (11-10) vs. York, Friday, time and place TBA;
  • Elba boys (18-2) vs. Webster-Christian (7-13), 7 p.m., Saturday, at Elba;
  • Batavia girls (17-2) vs. Eastridge (6-15), 7 p.m., Friday, at Batavia;
  • Elba girls vs. Belfast, 7 p.m., Friday, at Elba
  • Le Roy girls (8-12) vs. Attica (9-11), 2 p.m., Saturday, at Attica;
  • Notre Dame girls (14-7) vs. Cal-Mum (18-3), 2 p.m., Saturday, at Cal-Mum;
  • Alexander girls (15-6) vs. Letchworth (17-4), 5 p.m., Saturday, at Letchworth;
  • Oakfield-Alabama girls (15-6) vs. Lyons (12-8), 2 p.m., Saturday, at O-A;
  • Elba girls (12-8) vs. Belfast (13-7), 7 p.m., Friday, at Elba.

Le Roy ZBA rules in favor of Frost Ridge

By Raymond Coniglio

Frost Ridge Campground owner David Luetticke-Archbell embraces campground manager Janet Whitney — popularly known as “Miss Gabby” — after the joint Le Roy Zoning Board of Appeals issued a decision in favor of the campground Wednesday night.

The long battle is over, and won, for Frost Ridge Campground.

The Le Roy Zoning Board of Appeals on Wednesday ruled in favor of Frost Ridge, finding it a prior nonconforming use. The ZBA determined that “ambiguity” in the town zoning law, leaves room for camping and “attendant recreational activities” including live concerts.

That brings to an apparent close, a three-year legal battle over the Conlon Road facility.

Frost Ridge owner David Lueticke-Archbell was visibly relieved after ZBA Chairperson Debbi Jackett read the decision during a brief meeting in Town Court.

“Wow,” Lueticke-Archbell said. “Wow.”

“I’m so thankful that (the ZBA) took the proper time to really research it and come up with a decision that fit with what was legally right,” he said.

The Frost Ridge site has been used as a campground for decades. David and Greg Luetticke-Archbell have owned the the property since 2008, and have been hosting outdoor concerts there since 2012.

In 2013, the ZBA determined that the concerts are allowable under town zoning law. That decision prompted court challenges by neighbors and the Town of Le Roy. Last April, Supreme Court Judge Robert Noonan invalidated the ZBA’s ruling on technical grounds, and ordered a new public hearing.

That hearing was finally held on Dec. 17, 2015. After 90 minutes of testimony, Jackett said the ZBA would issue its ruling within the legally allowable 62 days — a deadline met on Wednesday.

David Luetticke-Archbell described the experience as a “roller coaster.”

“It’s been difficult,” he said. “The main thing, for me, is I felt like we haven’t been able to service our guests well during this time — not as well as we normally would.”

For Luetticke-Archbell, Wednesday marked the end of one chapter, and the start of another.

“For the legal stuff, this should be the end of the road,” he said. “And, God willing, that will offer some opportunities that we can do this in a way everybody can be happy with.”

Luetticke-Archbell said he would work with his attorney, to make sure the campground runs “by the book.”

“This is about people going on vacation and enjoying themselves,” he said. “We want to make sure everything we do is within the confines of what is allowable.”

Town Supervisor Stephen Barbeau has said the Town Board would abide by a ZBA determination that follows a formal application and public hearing. Wednesday night, he said the Town Board will not be discussing the ZBA ruling.

Neighbors who might disagree with Wednesday’s ruling, are however free to challenge it in court, he said.

About 20 people attended Wednesday’s meeting, many of them Frost Ridge supporters who applauded after Jackett spoke.

The meeting was scheduled for 7:30 p.m., and was officially adjourned at 7:38 p.m. Board members did not accept questions.

———

The ZBA ruling is an interpretation of two sections of town zoning law: Section 165-13, “Nonconforming uses, lots and structures”; and Section 165-39(B), which regards campsites. The following, is a partial transcript of the ruling as read by Chairperson Debbi Jackett:

We, the Le Roy joint Zoning Board of Appeals, conducted a hearing on Dec. 17, 2015, at 7:30 p.m. at the Le Roy Town Hall … The purpose of the hearing was in response to the application for interpretation filed by David Luetticke-Archbell as agent of applicant Frost Ridge Campground LLC, located at 8101 Conlon Rd. in the Town of Le Roy, N.Y. …

The application particularly requested an interpretation of whether zoning code of the Town of Le Roy allows for camping and attendant recreational activities including live and recorded amplified music, concerts and limited food service at the property as a prior, nonconforming use under Section 165-13 and, or likewise, as an exempt campground under Section 165-39(B)

The board notes this application is the first written request furnished by the applicant to this board.

We find that sections 165-13 and 165-39(B) of the zoning code of the Town of Le Roy, have ambiguity regarding the activities of the applicant on the property. We therefore interpret the zoning code of the Town of Le Roy does allow for camping and attendant recreational activities including live and recorded amplified music, concerts and limited food service at the property and is a prior nonconforming use under the aforementioned sections. We further direct that the complete written decision be field in the office of the the Town Clerk within five business days.

Law and Order: Basom man allegedly stole a woman's wallet at Walmart

By Billie Owens

Dannie Sims, 60, of Church Street, Basom, is charged with fourth-degree grand larceny. He was arrested at 1:56 p.m. on Feb. 10 after it was alleged that he stole a wallet from a female at Walmart. It contained cash and credit cards. He was arraigned in Town of Batavia Court and jailed without bail. The case was investigated by Deputy Chad Minuto, assisted by Deputy Joseph Corona.

Nathan A. Buchholz, 37, of Albion, was arrested by Troopers for fourth-degree criminal mischief after he allegedly struck and broke the glass mirror off a Dodge Ram truck during a custody exchange Feb. 15 in the Town of Batavia. Buchholz was issued an appearance ticket returnable to the Town of Batavia Court on March 3.

Stephen M. Smith, 26, of Mill Street, Batavia, is a registered NYS Level 2 sex offender who was charged with failure to report a change in 10 days, first offense, on Jan. 11. Following a joint investigation between the Batavia PD and NYS Parole, it is alleged that Smith had an active Facebook account that he had not registered with the Sex Offender Registry within the required 10-day reporting period. He was already in jail on a parole violation. He was being held on $50,000 and was due to appear in court this afternoon. The case was investigated by Batavia Police Officer Eric Hill.

A 16-year-old resident of Boyd Road, Pavilion, was arrested Feb. 15 at 2:53 p.m. and charged with petit larceny. This followed the investigation of a shoplifting complaint on Veterans Memorial Drive, Batavia. The teen allegedly stole merchandise from a department store by passing all points of purchase without rendering payment. The defendant was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Batavia Court. The case was investigated by Deputy Rachel Diehl, assisted by Deputy Jason Saile.

A 17-year-old resident of Boyd Road, Pavilion, was arrested Feb. 15 at 2:53 p.m. and charged with petit larceny. This followed the investigation of a shoplifting complaint on Veterans Memorial Drive, Batavia. The teen allegedly stole merchandise from a department store by passing all points of purchase without rendering payment. The defendant was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Batavia Court. The case was investigated by Deputy Rachel Diehl, assisted by Deputy Jason Saile.

A 17-year-old resident of Tower Road, Wyoming, was arrested Feb. 15 at 2:54 p.m. and charged with petit larceny. This followed the investigation of a shoplifting complaint on Veterans Memorial Drive, Batavia. The teen allegedly stole merchandise from a department store by passing all points of purchase without rendering payment. The defendant was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Batavia Court. The case was investigated by Deputy Rachel Diehl, assisted by Deputy Jason Saile.

Elba drama club presents 'The Sound of Music' this weekend

By Howard B. Owens

The Elba Central School Drama Club is presenting performances of "The Sound of Music" this weekend. These photos are from yesterday's rehearsal.

Performances are at 7 p.m., Friday, and 2 & 7 p.m., Saturday in the ECS Auditorium. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students and seniors. Tickets are available at the district office and at Roxy's Music Store.

Photo: Old WBTA building

By Howard B. Owens

Appropriate to the recent celebration of WBTA's 75th Anniversary, C.M. Barons sends us this photo of the old WBTA building off of Alva Place, Batavia.

Top Items on Batavia's List

Marketing Assistant — The Batavian Wage: $17 to $18 per hour Status: Part-time (potential to expand to full-time) Location: Work from home (local candidates preferred) The Batavian is seeking a qualified individual to create banner ads and assist with advertising duties to support our customers. Qualifications: High competency with Photoshop, especially for graphic design Training and knowledge in effective ad design Excellent interpersonal skills for client interaction Additional skills with other graphic tools are a plus Key Tasks: Collaborate with the ad sales representative to design ads for our website according to customer specifications Make corrections and adjustments based on customer feedback Upload and traffic ads to our ad server, ensuring correct placement Experience: Applicants must demonstrate a proven ability to perform the required tasks. Additional Information: This position starts as part-time and may expand to full-time. You will work from home; The Batavian will provide a Mac computer for the job. While remote work is possible, we prefer candidates who are local, familiar with our community, and have a strong understanding of our customers. To Apply: Submit your resume and a portfolio demonstrating your graphic design and ad creation skills with a cover letter to Publisher Howard Owens, howard@thebatavian.com.  
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