Genesee County added 200 jobs in August, according to a jobs report released yesterday in which the NYS Department of Labor touted a record number of jobs in the state.

According to the report, there are now 7.6 million jobs in New York, up 22,700 from July to August.

At the same time, the number of employment-eligible workers grew by 24,000, increasing the state's unemployment rate from 7.5 to 7.6 percent.

The number of jobs in Genesee County went up to 23,600, which is 200 over the July figure and the August 2013 number.

The County's unemployment rate has not yet been released.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley is in the midst of leading his annual Patriot Trip to Washington, D.C., but he just sent over this statement regarding the unfunded mandate by the NYS Corrections Commission requiring Genesee County to spend another $1 million on jail guards:

I was apprised by Genesee County officials of yet another $1 million unfunded mandate from Albany about a week ago. We are working closely with county officials to remedy this. When will Albany ever get it?

A 26-year-old Rochester resident is being held on $50,000 bail after being accused of dealing crack cocaine in Batavia.

Davon Tamer Michael Bell, of Gillette Street, Rochester, is charged with two counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance, 3rd, and two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance, 3rd.

Bell allegedly sold crack cocaine to undercover agents working with the Local Drug Enforcement Task Force.

The investigation into Bell's alleged activities began nine months ago. He was taken into custody Sept. 10 by Rochester PD.

Bell was indicted in a sealed indictment by the Genesee County Grand Jury.

Tracy Lynn Damato, 47, of Horsehoe Lake Road, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Damato is accused of stealing $19.99 in merchandise from Kmart.

Jordon Elizabeth Prescott, 19, of Ellicott Street Road, Bethany, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, and criminal contempt, 2nd. Prescott is accused of being at College Village after being barred from the property. She is accused of violating an order of protection by coming into contact with the security guard that was on duty at College Village.

Travis S. Bartz, 37, of Alexander, is charged with a violation of probation and criminal contempt, 2nd. Bartz was allegedly located at a residence on Route 98, Town of Attica, Wyoming County, by State Police in violation of probation conditions and a current stay-away order of protection.

Kimberley A. Smith, 36, of Alexander, is charged with felony DWI, felony driving with a BAC of .08 or higher and failure to stop at stop sign. Smith was arrested at 6:27 p.m. Wednesday on Brookville Road, Alexander, by State Police. Following her arrest, she was released to a third party.

Lamar Iteef Randall, 28, of Spruce Avenue, Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 5th. Randall was arrested on a warrant out of Stafford Town Court upon his release from Monroe County Jail where he was being held on an unrelated charged. He was jailed on $5,000 bail.

The Atlantic: The Case Against High-School Sports

A 28-year-old Batavia man is sitting in the Monroe County Jail awaiting further court proceedings on a pair of third degree robbery charges.

Frank L. Schiavi was originally arraigned in Monroe County Court on the two-count indictment against him July 3. He was picked up by U.S. Marshals last week with the assistance of Batavia PD and the Sheriff's Office for allegedly missing a court date.

He is now being held on $5,000 bail or $10,000 bond.

Schiavi is accused of twice robbing a First Niagara Bank location at 532 Chili Ave., Rochester, on Oct. 24 and again on Feb. 6.

Sgt. Elena Correia, public information officer for RPD, said Schiavi allegedly put a mask over his face just prior to entering the bank and once inside he robbed the bank.

In both cases, the suspect fled and RPD conducted an extensive search of the area and no arrest was made.

Although bank employees were able to see the suspect's face in both robberies and the public was alerted to the suspect information through media releases, RPD investigators were unable to develop any concrete leads.

That led investigators to believe the suspect was not from Monroe County.

On the same day as the second robbery, Batavia PD received a report from a concerned citizen about a suspicious person in the area.

Batavia PD and the FBI followed up on the information and obtained a photograph of the suspicious person.

The photo was used to help identify Schiavi as the robbery suspect.

There was apparently no public announcement of Schiavi's arrest at the time. The Batavian learned about the case from a Batavia resident who also claimed knowledge of related law enforcement activity.

The source said there was a subject arrested Monday at an address on Jackson Street. While neighbors said they saw members law enforcement at that address Monday and one neighbor said he saw a man in handcuffs, a check with the Sheriff's Office, Batavia PD and the FBI turned up no record of law enforcement activity at that address on that day. The U.S. Marshal's Office did not return our phone calls, but the U.S. Attorney's Office for WNY also found no records of federal law enforcement activity at that address.

The source also claimed federal law enforcement was looking for a subject who has left the state. While coworkers of a person this subject is believed to be traveling with said that people they believed to be federal agents came looking for the the peson, no agency contacted by The Batavian has any knowledge, they say, of who the person is, and they say he is not the subject of an investigation and they are not actively trying to find him.

It's unknown at this time how much money may have been taken from the banks. 

A car has hit a tree at Judge and Feeder roads, Alabama.

There are reportedly minor injuries.

Alabama fire and Mercy EMS responding.

UPDATE 9:34 p.m.: Alabama is back in service.

Two white males are reportedly fighting on Dellinger Avenue and another is yelling from a nearby porch. City police are on scene.

The smell of smoke coming from an apartment at 19 Maple St. prompted city fire to respond and they had to force entry because no one was home. They found burning food on the stove and are now ventilating the residence.

UPDATE 4:52 p.m.: The resident returned. The dwelling was ventilated. The city assignment is back in service.

Boys and girls in grades 9-12 looking to advance their hoop dreams are invited to a basketball mini-camp starting Oct. 7 at Batavia High School.

The camp is hosted by Batavia Boys Varsity Basketball Coach Buddy Brasky and sponsored by the Batavia Boys Basketball Booster Club.

The camp will focus on improving offensive skills and it will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. every Monday and Thursday in October.

The cost is $125 and Brasky said the camp is designed for experienced and serious players only.

For more information, contact Brasky at (585) 356=4050 or e-mail him at mbrasky@bataviacsd.org

Stafford Fire Department is returning to the site of yesterday's barn fire at 9418 Roanoke Road. It has rekindled itself.

UPDATE 4:16 p.m.: The remains of the smoldering embers are extinguished. Stafford is back in service.

Torrey Farms is being honored Oct. 1 with the 2013 Grower Achievement Award by United Fresh, a growers' association.

One of county's largest farms, the Torreys are being recognized for grower operations that strive to grow and market high-quality produce while contributing to the good of the industry.

Maureen Torrey has become a strong advocate in Washington, D.C., and elsewhere for public policies that protect farmers and promote agriculture.

She has testified before the House Committee on Agriculture regarding the farm bill and immigration policy.

Last year, for example, Torrey Farms lost 92 of 100 employees working in the packing shed following an I-9 audit. 

"The employees we lost averaged about 18 years of experience," Torrey told United Fresh. "Now we have to build it up from scratch."

The award will be given at the United Fresh annual Washington Public Policy Conference.

At the conference, produce industry leaders from across the supply chain meet with congressional lawmakers and their staff, as well as officials from the Food and Drug Administration to discuss policy issues that affect the agriculture industry.

(via OrleansHub)

A vehicle is believed to have struck a person in a wheelchair in the parking lot of Sport of Kings restaurant on West Main Street. A female is lying in the roadway and has minor injuries. Mercy medics, police and city fire are responding.

A reader sent me a note this morning to draw my attention to the handiwork of a beaver on the Tonawanda Creek near the Lyons Street bridge. This afternoon, I found the beaver's felled tree, perhaps the beginning of a new dam project, and also this blue heron hunting for lunch.

Press release:

State Sen. Michael Ranzenhofer, Assemblyman Steve Hawley and Congressman Chris Collins have pledged their support to participate in YWCA's Stiletto Walk: Making Strides Against Domestic Violence.

Hawley, Ranzenhofer and a representative from Collins' office plan to give a few remarks about the walk as they join others to raise awareness and funds for victims of domestic violence.

It's set to begin at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1 at John Kennedy Intermediate School, 166 Vine St. and end at YWCA, 301 North St., in the City of Batavia.

“Helping to protect women from domestic violence is something that should unite us all,” Collins said. “As a husband, father of two daughters and brother to five sisters, I am pleased Congress acted to reauthorize the historically bipartisan Violence Against Women Act earlier this year. Events like the Stiletto Walk and organizations like the YWCA of Genesee County help local communities come together to rallyaround this important cause.”

Everyone is encouraged (but not required) to put on a pair of women's footwear — whether it's a pair of pumps or sandals, slippers or pink sneakers — to simulate what it's like to "walk a mile in her shoes."

The number of victims walking into YWCA for services is unfortunately on the rise, but staff is grateful to have the opportunity to serve them, program Director Cindy Earl said.

This event will be a fun 1.3-mile walk meant to raise awareness that domestic violence still happens across the country and right here in Genesee County. It's the perfect kick-off for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, organizers said.

The walk is $20 with advance registration.

All proceeds will go to the YW's Domestic Violence Crisis & Prevention Services program, which serves approximately 700 new victims each year.

"We hope to get a big turnout from the community as a signal that domestic violence must end," Earl said.

The YW's second annual Community Harvest Supper will coincide with the walk, starting at 4:30 p.m. the same evening. This supper is a way to showcase local agricultural producers and highlight the importance of their work in this area.

Deadline to register for one or both events is Sept. 23. It's $20 for the walk and $8 for supper. Limited tickets will be available at the door. The cost goes up to $25 for the walk, $10 for supper or $30 for both the day of event.

For more information or to register, call (585) 343-5808, stop into the main office at 301 North St. or go to www.ywcagenesee.org.

For those who aren't able to participate, donations are gratefully accepted.

WHAT: YWCA's Stiletto Walk to Feature Steve Hawley, Michael Ranzenhofer and a rep for Chris Collins
WHEN: 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1
WHERE: John Kennedy Intermediate, 166 Vine St., Batavia
CALL: (585) 343-5808

Sweetland Pines Golf Course, 5795 Sweetland Road, Stafford, NY: Sweetland Pines is a par 3 golf course, great for beginners and experienced golfers working on the short game. Relaxed golf game, average play is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, leaving the golfer time to enjoy the rest of the day. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

Alex's Place, 8322 Park Road, Batavia, NY: People come from all over the region for a fine dining experience at Alex's. It's best known for its ribs, of course, but Alex's seafood is also a favorite of the restaurant's diners. We have a $25 gift certificate for $15.

Adam Miller Toy & Bicycles, 8 Center St., Batavia, NY: Feel like a kid in a toy store again, or treat your kids to the greatest toy store they will ever see. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

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.

Dave's Ice Cream, 3872 W. Main Street Road, Batavia, NY: Dave's offers only locally purchased products, including Perry's hard ice cream in a wide variety of yummy flavors, with a wonderful assortment of toppings and homemade waffle cones. Different soft-serve flavors are offered weekly. We have a $10 gift certificate for $6.

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 $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 $12.

Daphne's Restaurant, 241 Swan St., (Off Rt. 63/Ellicott St.) Batavia, NY. Daphne's is destined to become a favorite for any who enjoy something special in a dining experience. Formerly the old St. Nick's Social Club, now unrecognizable to those who used to frequent the club, Daphne's provides you with a warm, inviting atmosphere and decor, which complements the array of wonderful dishes. We offer homemade seafood and pasta dishes, meatballs that are addicting as well as large salads, hot sandwiches & homemade potato chips. Fresh desserts are prepared in our own kitchen (tiramisu has been the top seller so far). We have a $20 gift certificate for $12.

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 $12.

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. (Good only at the Batavia location.)

Sweet Ecstasy Bakery & Cafe, 201 E. Main St., Batavia, NY. A retail and special-order bakery and cafe located in Downtown Batavia inside Seymour Place. Offering a wide variety of items such as cookies, filled cupcakes, quick breads, pies, breakfast pastries, daily. On Fridays, Sweet Ecstasy Bakery offers fresh artisan bread like baguettes, sourdough and rye starting at noon. The custom cakes are out of this world with 3D characters or gorgeous wedding cakes to suit any budget. For all your sweet treats, we have a $10 gift certificate for $6.

Viking Valhalla Restaurant & Rose Garden Bowl, 21 Buffalo Road, Bergen, NY: Open for lunch Monday through Sunday, and dinner Friday and Saturday evenings. Dinner favorites are our succulent prime rib and Friday fish fries! We are always happy to help plan your special occasion -- wedding, shower, rehearsal dinner, stag party, graduation, company function, banquet, family or class reunion. We have a $20 gift certificate for $12.

Palm Island Indoor Water Park, 8250 Park Road, Batavia, NY: The newest family fun center in Genesee County, featuring a hot tub, monsoon lagoon pool and play area, tipping buckets, water slides, arcade with 15 games and birthday party rooms. We have a pair of gift certificates worth $40 in merchandise or services for $20.

Bohn's Restaurant, 5256 Clinton St., Batavia, NY: Fine dining in an atmosphere of casual elegance. Lunch and dinner, steak, prime rib and seafood. Ask about Bohn's catering services and banquet facility. We have a $25 gift certificate for $15.

Blue Pearl Yoga, 200 E. Main St., Batavia, NY: Stretch your body and soul with yoga. This offer is for $40 off ONE Reiki training session. Level 1 training is scheduled from noon to 5 p.m. on Sept. 28; Level 2 training is set for noon to 5 p.m. on Oct. 5. Either session is a $150 retail value. We have a gift certificate for $40 off a single Reiki training session.

Scooter's Restaurant in Le Roy, 140 W. Main Street Road (Route 5), Le Roy, NY: Come see us at Scooter's family restaurant with our friendly atmosphere and homestyle cooking! We offer classic American food with breakfast, lunch and dinner served all day. We also offer a full take-out menu anytime. We have a $10 gift certificate for $6.

Santino's Pizza, 2 Main St., Oakfield, NY: We're pizza and a whole lot more! Voted #1 Pizza in Genesee County in blind taste test! Santino's features pizza, wings, subs, wraps, ice cream, and more! We have a $20 gift certificate for $12.

The Enchanted Florist, 202 E. Main St., Batavia, NY: Whether you need just the right gift or a memorial or just want to brighten your own home or workplace, The Enchanted Florist can put together just the right floral arrangement for you. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

Jagged Edges Salon, 4140 Veterans Memorial Drive, Batavia, NY: 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.

Oliver's Candies, 211 W. Main St., Batavia, NY: Oliver's, a Batavia landmark, offers the finest chocolate and confections in the area. We have a $20 gift card for $12.

SOLD OUT

While there are few people walking into the Genesee County Clerk's Office to handle their DMV business, County Clerk Don Read told legislators yesterday, booming auto sales at area dealerships are more than making up for the lost revenue.

Still, Read would like to see more residents -- especially county employees -- realize that when they register their vehicles by mail directly with Albany, the county gets far less of that revenue than if the registration is handled locally.

"There's a major state initiative to move toward the Internet and kiosks," Read said. "That takes revenue away from the county office. They're doing it primarily because they want more of the revenue, and secondarily because they have an interest in reducing the cost at the motor vehicle offices in New York City, the surrounding counties and Long Island and Albany and Onondaga counties."

While local dealers have been selling more cars, so have dealers throughout the region. One large dealer with multiple locations does all of his business with the Genesee County DMV office because he gets better service.

Last Monday, that dealer brought in 295 new vehicle registrations. The following Wednesday, 40, and then on Friday, 130.

That dealer alone will probably account for $100,000 in revenue for the county, Read said.

Even so, Read would like a memo to go out -- perhaps even the proper forms included with paychecks -- to county employees reminding them to register their vehicles locally.

According to read, the county is currently only getting about 10 percent of its own employees' vehicle registration business. If there was a way to capture 100 percent of the business from the county's 230 employees (at an average, Read speculates, of three cars per household), Read said, it would mean another $100,000 in revenue annually.

"The best we can do is try to encourage them and hope they realize they're taking money out of their own pockets when they don't do it," Read said.

While the vehicle registration drop boxes on Court Street in Batavia and in Le Roy continue to help generate vehicle registration business for the county, the drop box installed last year in Bergen isn't doing much. It hardly pays to send an employee out three times a week to check on it, Read said.

Read would like to do more marketing to encourage people to register their vehicles locally, but in these days of tight budgets there aren't funds available to buy advertising.

In other Clerk's Office news: Michael Cianfrini, Oakfield town supervisor and son of Legislator Ray Cianfrini, will become the new deputy clerk. Cianfrini brings the added bonus, Read said, of being a licensed attorney. While Read had some hesitation about whether to appoint the son of a sitting legislator, he decided "the office shouldn't suffer because his dad is on the Legislature."  Read described him as clearly the most qualified candidate among a very competitive group of candidates.

Michael Cianfrini has been working in Ray Cianfrini's law office in Oakfield.

"The county's gain is my loss," Ray said.

"I'm really looking forward to him joining the office," Read said.

A start date for Cianfrini in his new post has not be set yet.

We requested a statement from Sen. Michael Ranzenhofer about the unelected NYS Corrections Commission requiring Genesee County to add $1 million annually to the county budget to fund 10 more jail guards.

Here's Sen. Ranzenhofer's statement:

I have recently had an opportunity to speak with Genesee County Officials about the Commission’s report concerning the county jail. Our office will be happy to work with the Sheriff’s Office and members of the Genesee County Legislature in the event they believe we can be of assistance to them.

Tom Hunt sent in this picture of the Batavia HS Class of 1963, which held a 50th Anniversary Reunion dinner at Bohn's this past weekend.

New York Times: Mental Health Again an Issue in Gun Debate