batavia

Montell L. Cunningham, 27, of State Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree strangulation, second-degree burglary and second-degree harassment. Cunningham was arrested at 7:22 p.m. on Sept. 29 after an investigation into a domestic incident that occurred on Sept. 13 on Tracy Avenue in Batavia. After arraignment in Batavia City Court, the defendant was put in jail on $2,000 cash bail, $4,000 bond, or $8,000 partially secured bond. A stay away order of protection was issued for the victim. Cunningham is due back in city court on Oct. 29. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer John Gombos, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Joshua K. Williams, 29, of McKinley Avenue, Batavia, is charged with: endangering the welfare of a child; criminal obstruction of breathing; and third-degree assault -- all Class A misdemeanors. He was arrested Sept. 23 on a warrant out of Batavia City Court. It was issued after an investigation into a domestic incident on McKinley Avenue on Oct. 7 of last year. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court with bail set by Judge Durin Rogers of one buck. Williams is due back in court on Oct. 28. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Joshua K. McKinley, 29, of McKinley Avenue, Batavia, was arrested at 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 23 on a bench warrant out of Batavia City Court. It was issued after McKinley allegedly failed to participate in a court-ordered program. He was arraigned in city court and put in jail with bail set by Judge Durin Rogers of one buck. He is due back in court on Oct. 28.

Danielle E. Cummings, 42, of Batavia Oakfield Townline Road, Batavia, is charged with: aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree; unlicensed operator; following too closely; and leaving the scene of a property damage accident. Cummings was arrested at 3:25 p.m. on Aug. 4 on Park Road in Batavia. The arrest was made after an investigation into a hit and run motor-vehicle accident on Park Road. She is due in Batavia City Court on Dec. 30. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Samuel Freeman.

Robert Scott Douglas, 40, no address provided, is charged with third-degree grand larceny. He is currently incarcerated at the Wyoming Correctional Facility. He was arraigned via Skype in Genesee County Court and ordered held on $100 bail. The warrant for his arrest stemmed from a grand larceny investigation by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay in February that resulted in a Grand Jury indictment. The case was handled by Batavia Police Sgt. Dan Coffey.

Rae Charlene Cook, 31, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. Cook was arrested at 5:20 p.m. on Sept. 30 when Batavia Police allegedly found her in violation of an order of protection while she was being taken into custody on a previous case. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and is due back there on Oct. 14. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Mitchell Cowen, assisted by Officer John Gombos.

Rae Charlene Cook, 31, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with first-degree criminal contempt. At 5:22 p.m. on Sept. 30, Cook was arrested after an investigation into a domestic incident that occurred on Liberty Street at 4:43 p.m. Sept. 28. It is alleged that Cook violated an order of protection by having physical contact with the protected party. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released under supervision of Genesee Justice. Cook is due back in court on Oct. 14. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer John Gombos, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Urban J. Lawson, 55, of West Main Street, is charged with second-degree harassment -- physical contact. At 9:26 a.m. on Sept. 26, Lawson was arrested because of an incident that occurred Sept. 22 on West Main Street in which he allegedly subjected a person to unwanted physical contact. He is due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 5. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Miah Stevens.

Lynn A. Perry, 53, of Halfmoon, no address provided, was arrested at 12:10 a.m. on Oct. 2 by troopers out of SP Batavia for driving while intoxicated and other vehicle and traffic infractions. Troopers were dispatched to a collision State Route 63 in the Town of Pavilion. Further investigation revealed a 2013 Audi was parked on the shoulder of State Route 63 and was struck by a 2019 Chevy operated by Perry. During the investigation, an odor of alcoholic beverage was allegedly present on Perry. Perry was placed under arrest after failing multiple SFSTs and transported to SP Batavia for processing. According to SP Batavia's report, Perry recorded a .11 BAC. She was issued traffic tickets returnable to the Town of Pavilion court for later this month.

Matthew J. Reed, 36, no permanent address, was arrested at 1 p.m. Oct. 20 on a bench warrant out of Batavia City Court for allegedly failing to appear for a prior court date. He is due to return to court Oct. 20. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Adam Tucker.

Press release:

The City of Batavia Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years — to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!”

The campaign works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.

According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Almost half (44 percent) of reported home fires started in the kitchen. Two-thirds (66 percent) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.

“We know cooking fires can be prevented,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice-president of outreach and advocacy. “Staying in the kitchen, using a timer, and avoiding distractions such as electronics or TV are steps everyone can take to keep families safe in their homes.”

The City of Batavia Fire Department encourages all residents to embrace the 2020 Fire Prevention Week theme.

“The most important step you should take before making a meal is to “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” said Stefano Napolitano, the city's fire chief. “A cooking fire can grow quickly. I have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could easily have been prevented.”

The City of Batavia Fire Department wants to share safety tips to keep you from having a cooking fire.

Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slidethe lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.

• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling.
• If you have to leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove. If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home whilefood is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.
• You have to be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.
• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink isprepared or carried.
• The City of Batavia Fire Department is hosting a series of events in support of this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!”, including virtual events at schools via and socially distant visits.
• For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and cooking fire prevention, visit: www.fpw.org

Local businesses and community groups, as part of a project hosted by the Batavia Improvement District, have decorated Downtown with their Halloween scarecrows.

Genesee County ABATE sponsored a "Save the Headlights" fun run today, originating at Stan's Harley-Davidson in Batavia in support of breast cancer treatment and research. Funds raised from the event are being donated to Genesee Cancer Assistance.

A two-car accident with injuries is reported at 3542 W. Main Street Road, Batavia. East Pembroke Fire Department and Mercy medics are responding along with law enforcement. The location is between Kelsey Road and County Building #2.

UPDATE 2:24 p.m.: All lanes of traffic are blocked, according to a first responder on scene.

UPDATE 2:26 p.m.: "It looks like a car rear-ended a truck," says a first responder. "The lady in the truck is hyperventilating; no injuries in the car."

UPDATE 3:01 p.m.: The roadway is clear. The East Pembroke assignment is back in service.

This year as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, city firefighters are wearing pink ribbon pins on their lapels.

"It's a small way to show them that they are the real heroes," Chief Stephano Napolitano said. "Everyone calls firefighters the heroes but breast cancer survivors, those people who are fighting breast cancer, and those who lost the fight, they are the real heroes."

Napolitano's late mother survived breast cancer so this is a cause, he said, that is near and dear to his heart.

Submitted photos.

Resurrection Parish held Confirmation on Thursday evening with Father Ivan Trujillo.

The confirmation service had been delayed from the spring.

The 2020-21 faith formation program begins Oct. 25 at Resurrection Parish and Jason Smith can be reached at resurrectionff14020@yahoo.com.

Smith is the teacher for confirmation and director of Religious Education at the parish.

Top photo: Sam Chmielowiec, Maxwell Tenney, Evan Preston and Elizabeth Kingston.

Photos and information submitted by Jason Smith.

Ariana deSae Frias is kneeling, anointed with holy chrism oil, signifying receiving the Holy Spirit.

Photographer Jim Burns submitted these photos.

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors approved incentives for a $12.8 million renovation of an existing apartment complex in the City of Batavia at its Oct. 1 board meeting.

Batavia Senior Housing Preservation LLC’s project will invest approximately $21,400 per unit in hard construction costs, assuring the apartment complex at 1 State St. remains viable as a safe and affordable housing option for low-income seniors. Current residents will not be displaced during the renovation and construction.

The project has been approved for a private activity bond, sales and mortgage tax exemptions and a property tax abatement. The property tax abatement is limited to the increase in future value only. Project incentives are estimated at approximately $376,466.

Three bedrooms, three full baths! Large Livingroom formal dining room and super cute newly refinished kitchen with peekaboo pass through to dining room! Off kitchen is cute morning room that has slider to large deck for morning coffee or there is a pantry/wine/bar nook your choice;) Basement has been partially finished with large play space for adult or child, full bath, and once upon a time there was a small kitchenette for those that like the extra cooking and canning space.

There is also utility/laundry area as well. Back yard has been fully fenced and super private -- extra large deck with a self made play/entertaining area with pergola -- can easily be turned back to full drive with one-car detached garage. This one is well worth the look! Click here for more information on this listing.

59 North Pearl Street Road, Oakfield: *20K PRICE DROP! Awesome price for tons of OPPORTUNITY! More than what meets the eye with this solid commercial building with a space for everyone!

Attractive large office space that has large private conference room, main office space, and front office. There are two huge bay garages with oversized overhead doors --one heated. Separate storage or equipment rooms if needed.

Upstairs features large, nicely finished, three rooms and small kitchenette could be extra office space or living quarters! This place will surprise you with how nicely done and the endless possibilities that it has to offer! Easy to see! Click here for more information on this listing.

Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul visited UMMC on Wednesday to announce the hospital will receive a $200,000 state workforce development grant to help people enter the nursing career. The grant is part of an $18 million statewide project announced yesterday by the governor's office as part of Workforce Development Awareness Week.  

Press release from the governor's office:

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that, during Workforce Development Awareness Week, New York State has been awarded an $18 million federal grant to fund educational opportunities that train New Yorkers for in-demand jobs, support entrepreneurs, and help small businesses recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

New York was one of just eight states to receive the funding -- made available through the CARES Act -- and received the most of any state that was awarded a grant. 

"The coronavirus pandemic is far from over, and as we continue to fight against this deadly virus, we must also respond to the economic devastation it has caused," Governor Andrew Cuomo said. "With millions of Americans out of work, we must use every resource available to train New Yorkers to compete -- and succeed - in this difficult economic situation.

"Our workforce is the bedrock of our economy, and I know that this funding will help bridge the gap between education and industry, allowing us to build back better by uplifting both individuals looking for jobs and small businesses across the state."  

"We are making success accessible ensuring New Yorkers have the training and skills they need to seek new jobs and opportunities as we continue to battle this pandemic," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "Our ongoing workforce development initiative is supporting efforts to improve the economic security of women, youth and other groups that face significant barriers by making job placement more inclusive and leaving no New Yorker behind.

"We are sending a clear message to New Yorkers that they will have the training and skills they need to succeed as we build back better, smarter and stronger for the future."

The New York State Department of Labor will partner with the Office of Workforce Development, Empire State Development, New York's ten Regional Economic Development Councils, the State University of New York, and the City University of New York to allocate the federal grant funding on programs that support New York's continued economic recovery. 

Educational programs will focus on developing the skills needed to succeed in emerging growth industries like tech, logistics, and advanced manufacturing, and supporting entrepreneurs. New York's multipronged approach will include four elements:

1) Education for Hard-Hit NYC: In New York City, which was among the worst-hit COVID-19 communities, the CUNY system will assist in training residents with the digital skills needed for in-demand sectors such as data analytics, cybersecurity, advanced logistics/supply chain, digital marketing and communications, and software development. 

2) "Stay Near, Go Far" at SUNY: At 30 community colleges across the State, SUNY will leverage its existing "Stay Near, Go Far" initiative to train New Yorkers in high growth industries, including technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing, and provide them with the entrepreneurial skills needed to open their own businesses.

3) Entrepreneurship Boot Camps: Building on its existing resources, Empire State Development will host a series of intensive workshops and boot camps to train entrepreneurs and small business owners on how to run their own business during - and after - the pandemic. 

4) Industry Focus, Regional Results: The Department of Labor will issue a competitive Request for Proposals and work with New York State's 10 Regional Economic Development Councils to identify industry-driven programs that either train job seekers to meet current local employment needs or are designed to address future economic and workforce development needs.

With winter on the horizon, Chuck Martin has found a location for indoor dining in Batavia for his BBQ stand, Angry Charlie's.

In June, Martin and partner Ken Prufrock opened Angry Charlie's at a location on West Main Street. By a week from Tuesday, they hope to be ready to open at 341 Ellicott St., Batavia, at the corner of Ellicott and Swan, the former location of Pasquale's Italian Eatery.

The restaurant will be open Tuesdays through Saturdays, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

There will be indoor dining for about 25 people and as long as the weather holds, a couple of picnic tables outside.

The change will also allow Angry Charlie's to free up its food trailer for catering and events.

There will also be a couple of menu changes: brisket every day, smoked haddock on Fridays, and (whether permitting) BBQ chicken on Saturdays. There will also be a children's menu.

Previously:

City police are responding to Lewis Place for a report of "a toddler hanging out a window."

A 28-year-old Buell Street resident is charged with attempted murder in the second degree after a person showed up at UMMC's emergency room on Aug. 25 with an apparent stab wound to his chest.

Police say the victim sustained a life-threatening injury that would have resulted in his death if not for immediate medical attention.

Officers determined, using evidence obtained through an investigation and an interview with the victim, that the stabbing occurred outside the water plant on Lehigh Avenue.

Jamie Dutton was identified as the suspect. He is also charged with assault in the first degree and criminal possession of a weapon, 3rd. He was ordered held on $100,000 bail or $200,000 bond.

The Batavia resident is currently being held in the Orleans County Jail on unrelated charges.

Batavia PD was assisted in the investigation by the Orleans County Sheriff's Office. Also assisting were the Orleans County Probation Department and the Orleans County Jail.

The investigation is ongoing and anybody with information that may assist in the case is asked to contact Det. Jason Ivison at (585) 345-6313.

Press release from the Governor's Office:

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the start of construction for a $1.1 million redevelopment project in the City of Batavia. This project, awarded through Batavia’s DRI Building Improvement Fund, will rehabilitate a three-story, 7,500-square-foot building built in 1865, in Downtown Batavia. Batavia’s downtown area is a mixed-use, affordable neighborhood with access to jobs, anchor businesses, and city and county services.

“The Downtown Revitalization Initiative in Batavia is driving strategic investments and helping bring new mixed-use development to the area to benefit the entire region,” Governor Cuomo said. "This historic building will be preserved to continue with Batavia's rich history and character and will be the propeller of future growth not only for Batavia but for the entire region.”

“Our Downtown Revitalization Initiative is transforming communities statewide by empowering local stakeholders to put forward their best ideas on economic development based on collaboration and shared purpose,” said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul.

“Batavia is uniquely positioned between two major urban areas but has carved out its own identity with projects like 99 Main Street. These projects will attract new people with a new life, energy, and sense of pride, and help New York build back better for a post-pandemic future.”​

The renovation and redevelopment of this historic building will include a new storefront, façade, and reconstruction of the existing three floors. A dental practice will operate on the first floor with the second floor being developed for commercial office space. The third floor will include two two-bedroom market-rate apartments.

The redevelopment of this historic building is part of the DRI award for the Building Improvement Fund, which provided the city with the resources to award building improvement projects Downtown. The award from the Fund is $137,600 with a total estimated project cost of $1,165,000. The Fund is operated locally by the Batavia Development Corporation and administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal.

The Genesee County Economic Development Center also supported the redevelopment through mortgage and sales tax incentives of $63,500. Neppalli Holdings LLC will also invest nearly $1 million to renovate the building as part of the public-private partnerships for DRI.

Secretary of State Rossana Rosado said, “The Batavia’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative is becoming a reality and it will bring a new look and way of life for residents to live, work and play in their business district. The Building Improvement Fund award provides an opportunity for economic investments in Batavia through the redevelopment of its business district, attracting a new generation of social and commercial enterprises to the city. This project is a testament that hard work and dedication, even in these unprecedented times, can yield progress and a bright future.”

NYS Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Through Governor Cuomo’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative, we are working directly with communities across the state to implement targeted economic development projects like this one that expand housing opportunities, enhance the downtown streetscape, and create a more lively and walkable commercial district.

"Batavia’s Building Improvement Fund will utilize $138,000 in DRI funds to transform this historic property at 99 Main Street into a beautiful mixed-use building with new office space and two apartments on the third floor. By supporting local efforts to strategically improve downtown districts with state resources, we are breathing new life into Batavia, the Finger Lakes Region, and beyond.”

Senator Michael Ranzenhofer said, “I am very happy that Batavia was chosen for this project. Investing in our Upstate communities is extremely important and this funding will help further the growth and redevelopment we have seen in Batavia.”

Assemblyman Stephen Hawley said, “Thanks to smart and expansive developments, Batavia will grow into an even greater destination and hub for Western New York than ever before. From the addition of a new performing arts center to the revitalization and renovation of a commercial hub to the continued development and upgrading of Downtown, Batavia is poised to be a bastion of community and comfort for the area. This investment will go a long way towards the continued fostering of community and cooperation for years to come.”

Batavia City Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. said, “The DRI award is critically important in our efforts to revitalize Downtown Batavia. It’s vital that we continue working with our partners at the state and local level to continue the momentum of the private and public sector investment in the county’s urban core.”

Batavia Development Corporation Board President Lori Aratari said, “The Building Improvement Fund created through the DRI provides grant funding for applicants to implement interior and exterior building improvements in Batavia’s Business Improvement District (BID) for commercial and mixed-use structures. This project exemplifies how we are using this fund to fill vacant and under-utilized structures in the city.”

Genesee County Legislature Chair Shelley Stein said, “The Genesee County Legislature recognizes the importance of the economic vitality of the City of Batavia for our county and region. I am especially pleased to see all levels of government working so closely in our efforts to bring private sector investment to the city.”

Genesee County Economic Development Center President and CEO Steve Hyde said, “To have so much support from so many leaders in the community gives me confidence that our project will be a great success and I hope will encourage others in the private sector to seek investment opportunities in Batavia. I want to thank all of our government partners for their continued support and collaboration in our collective efforts to encourage private sector leaders such as Dr. Neppalli to invest in Batavia.”

Batavia was named a DRI Round 2 winner. The downtown area is a mixed-use, affordable neighborhood with access to jobs, anchor businesses, and city and county services. The area has an excellent foundation upon which to continue its revitalization, including amenities such as recreational sites, healthcare facilities, food markets, a library, and various retail and restaurant venues in a walkable environment.

The Strategic Investment Plan for Downtown Batavia is working closely with private partners and local assets to implement the other eight projects awarded. These projects alongside all of the projects that will be awarded through the DRI Building Improvement Fund will create opportunities for economic development, transportation, housing, and community projects that align with the community's vision for downtown revitalization and that are ready for implementation.

The Downtown Batavia Strategic Investment Plan is guiding the investment of DRI grant funds in revitalization projects that advance the community's vision for its Downtown and that can leverage and expand upon the state's $10 million investment.

16 Ellsworth Ave., Batavia. This is a super home! Solid, ready to move in, super clean and updated throughout AND conveniently located to everything-schools, library, parks and shopping. This home is so spacious and well laid out – extra large rooms nice kitchen cabinetry, new flooring through out, and two full large baths, one on each floor. There is also off of kitchen, a large pantry room with laundry hookup -- so convenient! Three bedrooms and full bath upstairs, the master bedroom is oversized with pretty wood accents and nice lighting. There is also full attic -- if you need more storage. As well as a freshly painted, clean and bright basement area for all the rest or a place to work. Cute fenced in back yard and drive...this a great home! Click here for more information on this listing.

Call Reliant Real Estate today 585-344-home (4663).