A caller at a residence on Wood Street, Batavia, reports being trapped in a bathroom by two large, very aggressive dogs.
The caller told dispatchers that the owner works at a business in the City of Batavia but when dispatchers attempted to call that chain store, a person at the store claims nobody that name works at that business.
Law enforcement is dispatched.
So, on Thursday afternoon, as she toured the new detox center on the Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse campus on East Main Street and spoke to the 50 or so people attending an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony, Campbell’s appreciation and gratitude came shining through.
Campbell (photo above) introduced herself as the director of OASAS’ Behavioral Health Ombudsman office, a program that connects people to substance use and mental health treatment.
“But, more importantly,” she said. “My name is Stephanie Campbell and I'm a person in sustained recovery. And what that means for me is somewhere in 1989, someone picked me out of the gutter, and gave me the message of hope. And, and I say that because so many people right now are desperate for that hope and that care and that compassion.”
One of four speakers during the open house, Campbell said that “community and connection” – vital aspects of GCASA’s mission to provide comprehensive services at all stages of substance use disorder – are what turned her life around.
“I can tell you that back in 1989, when someone reached into that gutter and picked me up, and gave me that message of hope, and that compassion and treating me like a human being, I was able to go from being homeless street kid to having three master's degrees, being a professor, and being a director and having an extraordinary career,” she said. “And that's not to brag— there's millions of people just like me — who get the care and compassion that they need.”
She then turned to GCASA Executive Director John Bennett, commending his team as having “some of the most heart-warming, heart-feeling” people on it.
“When someone's in pain, and they look in someone's eyes, they know when that care is there,” she said, “and they know when that connection is there, that compassion -- and that makes all the difference.”
Campbell said hundreds of thousands of people are dying from drug overdose.
“I get the calls from the mothers and fathers on the phone desperately begging for help for their loved ones. I get people who can't get access to the medication and who are incapable and don't know where to go,” she said. “I also get the follow up calls from people who say, ‘If you hadn’t helped, I would be dead today.'”
She said it’s “the heroic folks,” such as the people at GCASA, that are making a difference.
“Talk about essential workers, you guys are saving lives,” she said. “And each life that you save is someone who gets to go back into their community, take care of their kids, be a productive member and pay their taxes.”
Bennett Expresses Thanks to OASAS
He said that Rob Kent, lead counsel for OASAS at the time, was instrumental in getting the funding for the two-story, 20-bed facility.
“I went to him and said that rural communities just don’t have the services that we need and we have just as many problems in our rural communities, but we just lack the depth that some of the urban communities have in place,” Bennett said. “We have 3 ½ acres here, and could you help me build services that meet the demand that we have in our community?”
Bennett said GCASA received a grant in 2018, but the pandemic put the project on hold until last year. Previously, the agency constructed a methadone clinic across the parking lot on the campus.
“We’re incredibly indebted and thankful to OASAS,” Bennett said.
Speaking from the experience of seeing the negative effects of alcohol abuse years ago in his family, Bennett said he foresees the detox center as a starting point toward ending generational cycles of substance use disorder.
“There weren’t services like this back then to help families, and then what happens is it just goes on for generations and generations. I just want the community and the staff who are going to be working here to know that everything you do – every person who walks through this front door – you’re going to impact their life.”
Bennett sees the detox center as a “building of hope – a wonderful place for people to start their recovery.”
“It’s going to be a place of hope and, hopefully, a place where people can break the cycle of addiction for themselves and their families as the start the beginning of their recovery,” he said.
He also credited the Orchard Park architectural firm of Fontanese Folts Aubrecht Ernst for designing a building that fits with the campus’ historic theme.
“They’ve actually done the last four or five projects for us, and they do a wonderful job in keeping with the historic nature of some of our buildings,” he said. “As you can see, the outside of this building is in keeping with the Atwater House (Community Residence).”
The official opening of the detox center is yet to determined.
Others speakers were Assemblyman Stephen Hawley, GCASA Board Finance Chair Fred Rarick and OASAS Regional Director Colleen Mance.
-- Stephen Hawley presented a certificate of merit to GCASA, thanking the agency for its efforts because substance abuse and addiction “has not gone away as a result of this (COVID-19) pandemic.
“I’m sure that it’s grown more dire,” he said. “The challenges we faced in our lives because of the pandemic have had an especially harsh impact on folks in recovery and those who support them -- all of you here today.
“With circumstances changing constantly in this fight, it’s critical that we remain persistent in our work to raise awareness of ongoing substance abuse and help those who are affected by it.
“This facility will give hope to hundreds of folks struggling with substance abuse over the course of the upcoming years, and I’m certain that it will help save many lives.”
-- Colleen Mance emphasized the importance in affording everyone “the same opportunity to access treatment and a continuum of care.”
“Congratulations to GCASA on this new milestone. I know it’ll be a huge success and we looked forward to the benefits that this will bring to Genesee County and the surrounding area,” she said.
-- Fred Rarick, a defense attorney, noted that many of his clients have families and friends who are affected by substance use disorder.
“You can have one individual in a family ... who has substance abuse issues and that impacts the entire family. It impacts their children who, many times, follow in the footsteps of their parents to become involved in the criminal justice system.
“(GCASA) is on the front lines of what we want to accomplish, and together we can all do it … I think it has come a long way from some of the initial programs. When people take advantage of these programs, they’re less inclined to be out on the streets, committing crimes.”
From left, Colleen Mance, OASAS regional director; Randi Johnson, detox center physician's assistant; Stephanie Campbell, NYS Behavioral Health Ombudsman Office director; Allison Parry-Gurak, GCASA director of Residential Services; John Bennett, GCASA executive director; Fred Rarick, GCASA board finance chair; Assemblyman Stephen Hawley; Kathy Hodgins, GCASA chief clinical officer; City Council members Tammy Schmidt and Eugene Jankowski Jr.
Photos by Howard Owens.
Bennett conducting a tour of the new detox center. Photo by Mike Pettinella.
Press release:
“In a time of crisis, as we face issues related to our economy, public health, and public safety, we cannot keep rehashing the same tired ideas that have proven to be ineffective solutions to serious problems. While I appreciate the governor’s rhetoric in support of small businesses during a time when they and our residents are leaving the state in droves, we should be talking about meaningfully cutting taxes and easing regulations to enable their success in the long term. Of equal importance is our need to focus on restoring order to our increasingly dangerous streets, following the passage of bail reform.
“Having served as assemblyman while Gov. Hochul served as our district’s congresswoman, it would be a pleasure to work together in earnest to make New York work for everyday New Yorkers once again. We must all come together to restore the authority of our local governments and judges.”
Press release:
The water department is continuing efforts to repair a water main on Liberty Street today. Expect the water to be shut off on Liberty Street from Cherry Street to Main Street today. Also expect water to be shut on Swan from the area of School to Ellicott Street, and School from Swan to Liberty.
The water may be off on Ellicott from Jackson to Liberty.
The length of time the water will be off is not known.
Traffic will not be able to pass through the south side of the intersection of Ellicott and Liberty while repairs are ongoing.
As always when water is restored it may be discolored, please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.
The public patience is greatly appreciated.
As expected, the Batavia Town Board on Wednesday night approved hiring Batavia native Kevin Earl to serve in the new position of counsel to the supervisor on a part-time basis.
Earl, per the resolution that was passed unanimously during a special meeting of the town board, is expected to work 20 hours per week at a starting rate of $51.52 per hour.
The resolution stipulates a six-month probationary period for the job, at which time an evaluation of performance will be assessed for an increase in pay or dismissal of duties.
For the past five years, Earl was employed as the Genesee County attorney.
During its organizational meeting, the board also made several appointments and reappointments to the Town Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals and Assessment Board of Review.
PLANNING BOARD
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS
ASSESSMENT BOARD OF REVIEW
The town board also set the salaries for Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals members, as follows:
As of 10:22 p.m. Wednesday, the following Genesee County schools have announced that they will be closed on Thursday due to a weather advisory in effect from 7 p.m. Wednesday through 1 a.m. Friday:
Pavilion Central School District has not officially announced a closure as of 10:26 p.m. Wednesday. The Batavian will update this list as needed.
UPDATE 10:47 p.m. Richmond Memorial Library and book sale will also be closed.
UPDATE 11:39 p.m. Genesee County Office for Aging is cancelling home-delivered meals and lunchtime meal sites for Thursday. Clients should use emergency meals.
St. James Episcopal Church Thrift Shop will be closed Thursday.
Email closures and cancellations to news@thebatavian.com
“Welcome home to Genesee County. We expect great things – tomorrow.”
With that introduction from Legislature Chair Rochelle Stein, lifelong Geneseean James Wujcik took his seat as the new county attorney.
The legislature’s appointment of Wujcik, who is replacing Kevin Earl, runs through Dec. 31, 2023.
Wujcik, a partner in the Attica firm of Dadd, Nelson, Wilkinson & Wujcik, said is leaving his part-time position as Wyoming County attorney in order to work on a full-time basis and be closer to his Le Roy home.
“I really didn't have any reason to leave Wyoming County,” he said following tonight’s Genesee County Legislature organizational meeting at the Old County Courthouse. “I love that job. And I thank the Board of Supervisors for allowing me to serve.”
He served four terms in Wyoming County.
“And the only reason I would have left is when this opened up. I grew up here and my family's from here. And it just seemed time to make a change,” he said, adding that his contract with Genesee County will result in him “phasing out” his private practice.
Longtime Batavia residents surely remember the Surprise Store and Enterprise Clothing on Ellicott Street in the city, which was owned by the Wujcik family.
“I'm from Le Roy; my mother’s side has been in Le Roy since like the 1850s,” he said. “My father’s side was from Batavia. My family's the Surprise Store and actually my grandmother’s house is where All Babies Cherished is now (down the road on Ellicott Street).”
Wujcik said he owes much of his success as a lawyer to the late Eric Dadd.
“I worked for Eric (Dadd) and he actually hired me as a part-time, first assistant county attorney. He was a mentor and beyond that to me. And he’s still missed to this day after he unexpectedly died in July of 2013,” he said.
“Now, his two associates have both become county attorneys (Wujcik and Jennifer Wilkinson, who is succeeding him in Wyoming County).”
When asked about the challenges facing Genesee County, Wujcik simply said he understands there are many important issues on the table and that he is “just looking forward to working with the legislature.”
“And I'm not going to comment on anything else," he said, ending the brief interview with a hearty laugh.
Photo: James Wujcik, with his son, Joseph, and daughter, Anna, is sworn in as Genesee County attorney by County Clerk Michael Cianfrini. Photo by Mike Pettinella.
The Genesee County Legislature welcomed 2022 tonight with an organizational meeting at the Old County Courthouse marked by the swearing in of district representatives, attorneys and clerk – and Chairperson Rochelle Stein's hope for better days ahead.
Stein (in photo above being sworn in by County Clerk Michael Cianfrini and joined by grandsons Daniel, left, and Lockwood Sutherland) was unanimously approved by her peers to continue leading the legislative body.
She called Genesee County “a community of wealth of spirit and pride” while thanking those in public health and the hundreds of volunteers who gave countless hours in the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prior to a Committee of the Whole meeting where lawmakers passed a resolution authorizing county treasurer Scott German to borrow up to $70 million in serial bonds toward the construction of a new county jail on West Main Street Road. Following is the text of the speech Stein gave at the end of the session:
“The county faced many challenges in 2021 and achieved many accomplishments. The COVID pandemic continues to rage on. We have our Public Health Department staff, Emergency Management staff, Public Safety officers and all county departments and other municipal partners leadership to thank for their dedication to our health and prosperity in 2021.
“Our ability to serve members of Genesee County came down to testing, clinics and vaccination clinics and now mask distributions and soon at-home COVID test kits.
“Volunteers from every department of Genesee County came together to accomplish one goal: Recover our good public health. Truly the best example of meeting the needs of our communities. Thank you to all of our volunteers.
“Our Chamber of Commerce and (Genesee County) Economic Development Center took on the communication and guidance and support of our businesses. Our business sector of essential businesses learned that staff and employees are critical needs to continue meeting supply demands.
“Highways and bridges were repaired and replaced all throughout the county. (WNY) STAMP campus has Plug Power as an initial green energy business tenant. More interest in our shovel-ready parks was evident in 2021.
“Families lost love ones, whether due to COVID or not, (and) traditions of gathering in grief and loss were curtailed. We carry these friends, family members and neighbors with us daily in loss and in prayer.
“Accomplishing a 40-year sales tax agreement with the City of Batavia and municipal water surcharge agreements (with towns and villages) is game changing for moving our next public water project into motion.
“Moving forward with construction of a new jail in 2022, Phase 3 of the (Countywide) Public Water (Project) and investing in high speed broadband are next up on our to-do list.
I am very pleased to be part of this legislative body of thoughtful forward-thinking individuals who take responsibility for moving our county forward into the next decade with courage and vision.
“In spite of COVID arresting what was our normal way of life, we have embraced technology – we may even be ‘remote meeting gurus’ by now. We have learned to think outside of the box for local governments to accomplish goals.
“We have much to be appreciative of, and see the uncertainties ahead of us. Together with dedicated leadership, factual information and administrative support from our county manager, we will continue to be a successful county. Genesee County is a community with wealth of spirit and pride. We are proud to serve her.”
JAIL FINANCING AT TOP OF LIST
County Manager Matt Landers said the resolution giving German the go-ahead to identify financial institutions willing to issue the bonds caps a “long journey” to construction the state-mandated 184-bed jail.
He also mentioned that the county has money in reserve, believed to be in the $7 million to $10 million range, that could be used to enable the county “to borrow a little less” than the $70 million or to cover any overages brought about by a “volatile” construction marker.
German said he will be contacting banks and other lenders, keeping a Feb. 15 deadline to change the amount to be borrowed, again depending upon construction costs.
Members of the 2022 Genesee County Legislature, front from left, Gregg Torrey, Rochelle Stein, Marianne Clattenburg; back, Brooks Hawley, Christian Yunker, Chad Klotzbach, John Deleo, Gordon Dibble and Gary Maha. Clattenburg and Torrey will serve as 1st and 2nd vice chair, respectively.
Kevin Finnell, accompanied by his wife, Nanette, takes the oath of office as the county's District Attorney. Cianfrini is at right. Jerry Ader of Clarence was reappointed as Genesee County public defender through Dec. 31, 2023.
Cianfrini swears in Legislature Clerk Lisa Casey as her mother, Sandy, looks on. Casey was hired by the legislature in early September 2021.
Photos by Mike Pettinella.
Press Release:
New Yorkers need change. That is the one thing that everyone seems to agree on. Governor Hochul touched on many important topics, but we need to see the details. We have heard so much of this before with little results or progress for residents. New Yorkers continue to be nickel and dimed at every turn and unfortunately, the State of the State seemed to give little thought to this. We need practical proposals for everyday New Yorkers, we need transparency in government, and we need our leaders to remember that trust is earned.
As the father of three daughters, it was very promising to see the State of the State given by a woman. I look forward to the 2022 Legislative Session and I am hopeful that we will get real results.
Personnel moves -- per resolutions to be considered at meetings tonight and previously passed by the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors -- are as follows:
COUNTY SET TO ‘MOVE FORWARD’
County Legislature Chair Rochelle Stein cited Wujcik’s experience as a county attorney as he steps into the role of helping to facilitate key projects facing the municipality in the near future.
“Jim has just finished his term with serving Wyoming County – not as a full-time attorney – and we are looking forward to having him come on board (in a full-time capacity),” she said. “He was interested (in the Genesee County job) and we were interested, and we believe that we're going to continue to work on behalf of the taxpayers here in Genesee County -- in a really smart, effective and efficient way.”
“This was mutual on both sides,” she said. “He has really performed a great service to the county for the last five years. We have gone through some … amazing things while he sat in that office, and there's the craziness of this pandemic.”
She mentioned the addition of a corporate compliance officer, progress on the new county jail, 40-year sales tax agreement and the water agreement with towns and villages as major accomplishments.
“We just wish him (Earl) all the best as he transitions into this new role,” she said.
Earl, contacted by telephone moments ago, issued the following statement:
“I thoroughly enjoyed my work with the county and all the county employees, and I am grateful for this opportunity with the Town of Batavia on a part-time basis as part of my semi-retirement strategy.”
TOWN CREATES NEW POSITION
The Batavia Town Board is set to create the counsel to the supervisor position tonight and hire Earl, a former attorney for the town and longtime Batavia resident, at a rate of $51.52 per hour, effective January 10.
Town Supervisor Gregory Post said the decision was predicated upon the additional volume of legal work coming into the town coupled with the desire of current Town Attorney Andrew Meier, a Medina resident with a private practice, to decrease his workload.
Post added that a “number of line items in our budget are dedicated to legal and we are in a good position to enter into an agreement with Kevin for his services.”
The position will be evaluated after six months, Post added.
“There are things that have been on the table for six or seven months that haven't been attended to, and we’ve got two new projects that are been grant funded in the last 30 days.” Post said. “We have pretty good vibes that more development is on the way.”
Post noted that Wujcik represents the town on code enforcement and building inspection matters, but expects that he will be giving that up in his new role as Genesee County attorney.
The supervisor had high praise for Earl, who, he said, “did an unbelievable job for us for so many years.”
“I have great respect for Kevin,” Post said. “And when I found that he would be available, he and I had a conversation and I talked it over with my counsel and my staff. And we feel as though we're finding a path of trying to save some money.”
Post said the normal hourly rate for contracting with attorneys is around $200.
“Kevin will be in the office – and will be immediately available to the building department, to code enforcement and inspectors, to the engineering staff, to the town clerk and be able to work with planning and zoning,” he said. “He will help us move through these new public works projects and navigate contracts and insurance service agreements for the next year.”
Officials with the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports as well as local dignitaries are expected to participate in Thursday afternoon’s open house of Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse’s new detoxification center at 424 East Main St.
The event, which is open to the public, is set for 2 to 6 p.m. Pre-registration can be done by clicking on the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/gcasa-detox-open-house-tickets-215846260977
All attendees will be expected to wear face masks and adhere to other guidelines related to COVID-19.
Guest speakers leading up to a ribbon cutting ceremony at 3:15 p.m. include Colleen Manse, addictions program specialist, and Stephanie Campbell, ombudsman project director, for OASAS; Assemblyman Stephen Hawley, and GCASA Executive Director John Bennett.
Tours of the facility will be conducted, and food and refreshments will be available at no charge.
Kathleen Hodgins, GCASA’s chief clinical officer, emphasized that the two-story, 20-bed facility further reinforces the agency’s mission of providing care at all levels of the substance use spectrum.
“Clients in detox will benefit from having a continuum of care starting with detox and including in-patient, residential and supportive living if they choose that specific pathway to recovery without having to go to another treatment facility,” Hodgins said, noting that having a detox center in Batavia will make it easier for those living in the GLOW Region.
“They will have all modalities of treatment available to them -- including peer services and case management.”
For many people, medically supervised detoxification from certain drugs and alcohol is crucial to beginning recovery, Hodgins added.
“Finding the strength to seek help isn’t always easy. We’re here to let those struggling with substance use disorder know that they’re not alone. Help is available, and it starts with our detox center admissions’ process,” she said.
The detox center is attached to the rear of the Atwater Community Residence. The opening date has yet to be determined.
Hodgins said the 8,600-square foot facility will be fully staffed by medical and substance use counseling professionals -- specially trained and certified to assist those who require short-term services.
Bennett said GCASA’s latest expansion is resulting in the creation of around 25 new jobs --mostly professional and living wages.
“The medical staff will consist of a medical director, a mid-level (supervisor) and several nurses,” he said. “There will also be a clinical supervisor and several counseling staff as well as med techs and support staff.”
As far as additional expansion, Bennett said GCASA’s Batavia campus, which also includes supporting living and childcare residences, is full. But the agency is in the midst of developing a women’s and children’s 25-bed residential program in the Town of Albion.
Construction on the detox center began last January, with Javen Construction of Penfield as the general contractor. GCASA received a grant from OASAS and New York State to fund the project, which is estimated at $3.2 million.
Press release:
The following guidance is for visitation at Veteran Affairs Western New York Healthcare System (VAWNYHS) Buffalo and Batavia Campuses effective January 4, 2022, and will remain in place until further notice.
Due to the surge in COVID-19 infection rates throughout Western New York, VA Western New York Healthcare System has suspended physical inpatient visitation at our Buffalo VA Medical Center site.
VA Community Living Center resident visitation with family members at our Batavia VA Medical Center site will be limited through glass partitions.
Buffalo Campus visitation exceptions (on case by case basis):
- Hospice/Palliative Care/End of Life requires approval of medical care team and Medical Center Director or Chief of Staff
- Outpatient Services – Essential Visitor: Scheduled Outpatient Appointments
- The purpose of this visitor is determined on a case by case basis by the care team and is absolutely essential and critical to the care and needs of the Veteran (example – a Veteran in need of escort to
accompany to an appointment when Veteran is unable to safely navigate to the appointment and/or for a Veteran who is unable to comprehend specific teaching instructions, or is unable to perform
a skill that is critical to the Veterans care including wound care, Foley Care, etc.).
All visitors will be expected to follow this guidance:
- Upon arrival of the visitor to the screening station, the visitor will be screened (including temperature taken as part of screening process) and will not be granted access if exhibiting signs of COVID-19 or any
illness including a temperature of 100.0 degrees or greater or exposure to a confirmed COVID-19 person(s).
- Wear a VA provided face covering mask (neck gators, bandanas, face shields are not an appropriate form of a face covering) while in the facility. If visitor does not have a mask, one will be provided.
- Perform hand-hygiene when entering facility and before and after visiting a hospitalized Veteran as instructed by staff.
- Refrain from eating or drinking while visiting a hospitalized patient.
- To exit the facility immediately following the visitation.
Press release:
On Thursday, December 30th, 2021 around 9:32 PM the Batavia Police Department received a third-party phone call that two adults had overdosed in the presence of their young children at an apartment at Northside Meadows.
The Batavia Police Department responded along with the Batavia Fire Department and Mercy EMS. Upon arrival, the mother of the children, Anda Ithna-Asheri (38), was found to have been deceased for some time.
The father, Makeen Ithna-Asheri (61), was unresponsive with agonal breathing. Multiple doses of Narcan were administered and Makeen was transported to UMMC where he later recovered.
The children, ages seven and ten, were released to the custody of a relative. Following an investigation by the Batavia Police Department, Makeen Ithna-Asheri was arrested on January 4th, 2022 around 2:33 PM by Detective Jason Ivison.
Makeen was charged with manslaughter in the 2nd degree and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.
Makeen is accused of providing Anda with the drugs which caused her to overdose and knowing that she overdosed, he failed to administer proper aid. Additionally, Makeen allegedly prevented the notification of emergency services by taking the children's phones away when they wanted to call 911.
Upon being taken into custody, Makeen was found to be in possession of a quantity of suspected crack cocaine and was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 7th degree.
Makeen is on lifetime parole for Murder in the 2nd degree and is currently being held in Genesee County Jail on $50k bail, $100k bond, and $150k partially secured bond. Makeen is also being held on a parole warrant.
Makeen is scheduled to reappear in court on February 2nd, 2022 at 1:00 p.m.. The Batavia Police Department would like to thank the Genesee County 911 Center, City of Batavia Fire Department, Mercy EMS, Genesee County Department of Social Services, Genesee County Child Advocacy Center, Genesee County Coroner’s Office, Genesee County District Attorney’s Office, and NYS Parole for their assistance in this case.
Press release:
Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) is announcing the independent dispute panel has ruled in favor of the United States in the ongoing dispute over Canada’s Dairy Tariff Rate Quotas (TRQs). Canada has been in violation of provisions of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) negotiated by President Trump.
“Since the implementation of the USMCA, Canada has clearly violated provisions which expanded United States dairy exports to Canadian markets. Canada’s unfair policies cost American producers hundreds of millions in unrealized revenue,” Jacobs said. “Since I took office in 2020, I have been working to right this wrong and hold Canada accountable for these violations. Now, I am proud this advocacy on behalf of Western New York dairy farmers has paid off.”
Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) Canada was allowed to use tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) for 14 different categories of dairy products including milk, cheese, and ice cream. These TRQs give favorable tax treatment to U.S. dairy products imported by Canada under a certain quantity. Contrary to what USMCA required, Canada set aside a percentage of products intended for these American imports solely for Canadian producers. This had the effect of denying American dairy farmers additional access to the Canadian market secured by USMCA.
Jacobs has taken numerous actions to resolve this dispute and hold Canada accountable for these violations. Jacobs sent a letter to former United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer calling for a dispute panel to be convened to settle this issue. That panel convened in December 2020 to attempt to settle the dispute. Jacobs held a press conference in July 2021 highlighting this issue, drawing public attention to Canada’s violations, and sending a letter to the Canadian Ambassador to the United States Kirsten Hillman calling for a quick resolution to the issue.
“Representing our region’s farmers is a responsibility I take very seriously. Since taking office, I have consistently worked to ensure they can access every opportunity available, and I will keep working to ensure farming has a prosperous future in Western New York,” Jacobs said.
Previously: Jacobs calls on Canada to honor pledge to import more U.S. dairy product (with video)
Press release:
The water department is continuing efforts to repair a water main on Liberty Street today. Expect the water to be shut off on Liberty Street from Cherry Street to Main Street today. Water may be shut on Central Avenue as well as Liberty Street south of Cherry to South Jackson.
Traffic will not be able to pass through the south side of the intersection of Ellicott and Liberty while repairs are ongoing.
As always when water is restored it may be discolored, please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.
The public patience is greatly appreciated.
Press release:
The water department will have to shut the water off on Liberty Street from Main Street to Cherry Street to make repairs to a water main break. At this time there is no time frame on how long the water will be off. All efforts are being made to keep this time to a minimum.
As always when water is restored it may be discolored, please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.
The public patience is greatly appreciated.
Photos by Howard Owens
It’s trivia time for students at Batavia High School: who is a huge Buffalo Bills fan, an avid reader, a musician, runner and is a Bruce Springsteen fan?
If you were listening to this morning’s announcements, the answer is a no-brainer. Newly hired Superintendent Jason Smith revealed those recreational activities during an on-air interview from the high school's main office. Smith is also happy to “talk books” of all kinds, listen to classic 1980s rock and roll, play his trombone in some local bands and spend family time watching the fourth season of Cobra Kai.
Aside from his personal passions, Smith is looking forward to returning to BHS as a 1990 graduate.
“I have always been very proud of Batavia. I’m excited to have the opportunity to work with students, and to work with the faculty and staff,” he said. “My drive has gone from 40 minutes to four.”
As the former superintendent of Lyndonville Central School, Smith’s daily travel went north to Orleans County. He was there for the last 10 years, after serving as Elba middle and high school principal, and a teacher in Albion. After graduating from Batavia High School, Smith's college major was history, and he attended both Geneseo and Brockport State College.
According to Board of Education President Alice Benedict, Smith met some key characteristics that community members had sought, including being a hometown resident and not making Batavia a short stop on the way to another district. The board, with direction from Genesee Valley BOCES Superintendent Kevin Macdonald, conducted a search in late 2021 after former Superintendent Anibal Soler announced he was leaving.
Smith brings with him a lifestyle philosophy he’d like to share with everyone he encounters.
“Going back to when I taught, I always believed in the concept of high expectations,” he said. “Raise the bar, set high goals. It’s our job as the adults to help achieve those high expectations.”
Smith began his career in 1994 in the Albion Central School District as a high school social studies teacher had various principal positions at Elba Central School from 2004 to 2011, and has been at Lyndonville Central from 2011 to present.
He received his Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration and his Masters of Science in Education from the State University of New York College at Brockport. He is also a graduate of The State University of New York at Geneseo, where he received his Bachelor of Arts in History with a Minor in Sociology.
Monday was Smith’s first official day at the city school district. He and Interim Superintendent Scott Bischoping had previously reviewed district business, Bischoping said. Smith's first board meeting will be at 6 p.m. on Jan. 11 in the high school library. Board meetings will resume on the third Thursday of the month beginning in February.
Top photo: New Superintendent Jason Smith answers questions during Monday morning announcements at Batavia High School. Above, Smith answers questions during announcements with Student Co-Mayor Mackenzie Harmon and high school Principal Paul Kesler Monday at the high school. Photos by Howard Owens.
Daquan J. Butler, 25, of Liberty, is charged with criminal impersonation 2nd. Butler allegedly lied to police about his identity while officers were investigating a disturbance on Thorpe Street, Batavia, at 11:50 p.m., Dec. 25. Butler was also wanted on a warrant. He was released on an appearance ticket.
Daniel P. Hinca, 26, of Ft. Meyers, Fla., is charged with felony DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, and failure to use designated lane. Hinca was stopped by a Batavia PD patrol at 1:32 a.m., Dec. 24, on East Main Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.
Nicholas P. Knouse, 18, of Attica, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Knouse was allegedly found in possession of a rifle in violation of an order of protection at 3:07 p.m., Dec. 20. He was issued an appearance ticket.
Paul A. Inostroza, 31, of Rochester, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd and aggravated harassment 2nd. Inostroza is accused of violating an order of protection following an incident on Dec. 11 and of leaving threatening voice mails. He was arrested at City Court on Dec. 23 and issued an appearance ticket.
Marvin K. Barber, Jr., 36, of Batavia, is charged with disorderly conduct. Barber was allegedly involved in a fight inside a business in Batavia on Nov. 25 at 11:30 a.m. He was arrested on Dec. 23 and issued an appearance ticket.
Eric J. McGill, 38, of Batavia, is charged with disorderly conduct. McGill is accused of being involved in a fight inside a Batavia business on Nov. 25. He was arrested on Dec. 21 and issued an appearance ticket.
Richard G. Hafford, 43, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th and harassment 2nd. Hafford was allegedly involved in a fight at a location on East Main Street, Batavia, at 2:21 a.m., Nov. 12. He was arrested on Dec. 23 and issued an appearance ticket.
Timmy L. Taylor, 47, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny, grand larceny 4th, and aggravated unlicensed operation. Taylor is accused of stealing a mobile phone and a vehicle from a person and then operating that vehicle on a revoked license. Taylor was issued an appearance ticket.
Michael J. Robbins, 62, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Robbins is accused of stealing $83.13 in merchandise from Walmart at 7:35 p.m., Dec. 30. He was issued an appearance ticket.
Joseph Owen Hutt, 32, of Donlin Drive, Rochester, is charged with DWI and speeding. Hutt was stopped at 7:22 p.m., Dec. 29, on Route 33, Byron, by Sgt. Mathew Clor. He was issued traffic tickets.
Lisa M. Grasby, 50, of Le Roy, is charged with petit larceny. Grasby was arrested by State Police in connection with an incident reported at 10:12 a.m., Dec. 24, in the Town of Batavia. She was issued an appearance ticket. No further details were released.
Press Release:
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that applications are now being accepted for the New York State Homeowner Assistance Fund (NYS HAF), a program that will provide up to $539 million in aid or other direct assistance to help eligible homeowners who are at risk of default, foreclosure, or displacement due to financial hardship caused by the pandemic. New York was the first state in the nation to receive U.S. Department of the Treasury approval to launch its program.
"For many, buying a home is the greatest source of economic and social stability, and our Homeowner Assistance Fund - the first in the nation to be approved - is a critical tool to help ease the pain of the pandemic felt disproportionately in rural communities, communities of color, and immigrant communities," Governor Hochul said."My administration will continue to stand by homeowners, renters and all New Yorkers every step of the way as part of our economic recovery."
New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, "What we do now to help our fellow New Yorkers keep their homes will impact communities and our state for generations to come by contributing to its vitality and building future successes. We cannot and we will not stand by as homeownership and economic gains are threatened in historically disadvantaged communities. Working with our partners in legal services and community-based housing organizations, we have designed the Homeowner Assistance Fund program to help our at-risk families in every corner of the state regain financial stability."
Attorney General Letitia James said, "As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc on the health and wallets of New Yorkers, it is critical that homeowners are granted the relief they need," said Attorney General Letitia James. "The Homeowner Assistance Fund will go a long way in helping homeowners get through this crisis, but it's imperative that these funds are used to support not replace the mortgage industry's own efforts to help struggling homeowners. Through our new Mortgage Enforcement Unit, my office will ensure that these funds go where they are needed and can protect as many homeowners as possible."
Designed and administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), NYS HAF targets low- to moderate-income homeowners who are behind on mortgage payments, property taxes, and water and sewer bills. The program is also open to owners of cooperative or condo units who are behind on maintenance fees, and manufactured homeowners behind on chattel loans, retail installment contracts or lot rents.
Applicants may receive financial assistance to catch up on missed housing payments, to reduce mortgage debt to make monthly mortgage payments more affordable, and for homeowners who are unemployed, assistance with up to six months of future housing payments.
HCR is also working in partnership with the Office of the New York State Attorney General's Mortgage Enforcement Unit to advocate with mortgage lenders and mortgage servicers to ensure homeowners are receiving all available relief under federal and state rules. This may include extended mortgage terms, deferment of missed payments or forbearance amounts, and lower interest rates to reduce monthly payments.
The NYS HAF call center - 844-77-NYHAF (844-776-9423) - will operate Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. to assist homeowners and provide critical information about the program and instructions on how to apply.
The NYS HAF website - www.nyhomeownerfund.org - includes Frequently Asked Questions, a step-by-step application guide, and a document checklist so that applicants know what documentation may be needed to submit their application.
Last month, Governor Hochul announced the launch of the NYS HAF program website, an information call center, and a multilingual marketing campaign that is helping educate homeowners about the program and ensure all eligible New Yorkers, especially those in non-English speaking households, are ready and able to apply.
By examining previous assistance state programs, HCR designed a more streamlined application to ensure the process is simple and easy for homeowners to navigate. Efficiencies include:
· Utilizing several industry-standard, third-party verification technologies that confirm applicant identification and/or ownership, and may limit the number of documents that a homeowner needs to provide as part of their application.
· Allowing the application to be started, paused, and resumed later without losing data and information already entered.
· Accepting signed attestations from applicants to minimize the number of documents they will need to submit.
To make the application process accessible for all homeowners, and to assist those with limited access to technology or limited English language fluency, HCR has made the following accommodations:
· Applicants may authorize a relative or other surrogate to submit an application on their behalf and continue to communicate directly with program staff to track the status of that application.
· NYS HAF has partnered with a network of over 70 housing counseling and legal services providers to allow direct access to the online application portal and who will be able to submit multiple applications on behalf of their clients.
· Homeowners can contact the NYS HAF call center and apply over the phone.
· The website and supporting materials are available in English and ten additional languages: Arabic, Bengali, Haitian-Creole, Italian, Korean, Mandarin, Polish, Russian, Yiddish, and Spanish.
· The online application is available in English, Arabic, Bengali, Haitian-Creole, Italian, Korean, Mandarin, Polish, Russian, Hebrew, and Spanish.
· The Call Center will be able to assist with language translations for any application
Since announcing the program in early December, HCR mobilized an outreach and education campaign directed to vulnerable homeowners to ensure they understood the program and were prepared to apply. This included mobilizing a team of 23 community-based organizations, covering every region of the state, to work with their targeted constituencies of at-risk homeowners. Areas of particular interest are those historically subjected to housing discrimination, areas where homeowners may have limited access to the internet, and communities where there is a high level of homeownership distress.
In addition, a statewide multilingual marketing campaign was created in an effort to reach vulnerable homeowners in their own language through trusted media outlets in communities where English is not the primary language.
The NYS HAF program is administered by Sustainable Neighborhoods LLC, a non-profit community development financial institution selected through a competitive Request for Proposals. Sustainable Neighborhoods has extensive experience administering foreclosure prevention and loss mitigation programs across the state.
Sustainable Neighborhoods CEO/Executive Director Christie Peale said, "Thousands of low-income homeowners who have been struggling financially because of COVID will now get the relief they desperately need, thanks to the New York State Homeowner Assistance Fund. Whether you live in a manufactured home, a condominium, coop or a single-family home, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to receive assistance. It is urgent that we help as many families as possible keep their homes, despite the damaging impacts of the pandemic. We thank Governor Hochul for her leadership and dedication."
Press release:
The City of Batavia will be picking up Christmas trees in the month of January and will continue through the end of the month as weather and operations permit.
Important information regarding Christmas tree removal:
- We can only pick up real trees. No artificial trees.
- Residents are to place trees in the parkway near the curb. Keep trees out of the roadway and clear of sidewalks.
- Residents placing trees out will need to strip the trees of all decorations, lights, stands and bags. These items damage chipping equipment. Contact your waste disposal company for information on the proper disposal of these items.
- If high winds are forecasted, delay putting trees out until after winds have subsided. Trees in the road and across sidewalks are a hazards to motorists and pedestrians.
- Keep trees free of snow and ice so they are visible and do not become frozen to the ground.
- Please, have trees out for pick-up before January 31 (Last day of pick-up February 1).
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