Wednesday News Brief

Amigos With Flavor Plans Patio, Bar, and Live Music for Warmer Weather

Joanne Beck with the Batavian reports, with warmer weather on the horizon, Batavia restaurateur Nestor Ocanas is preparing to bring outdoor dining, drinks, and live music to Amigos With Flavor on West Main Street.
Ocanas says plans have been underway since receiving his New York State liquor license. The restaurant will now offer a full bar, including beer, hard liquor, margaritas, cocktails, and drink specials — something customers have been requesting.
Ocanas says Amigos plans to open for full-week service by early February.
The patio at the restaurant, located at 4110 West Main Street in Batavia, will feature live music throughout the warmer months from local band Bobby and the Pedestrians, known for its eclectic, high-energy sound.
Amigos With Flavor has also expanded its menu, adding fajitas, carne asada steak, shrimp tacos, and specialty drinks like the Michelada.
Ocanas says the mix of margaritas, sizzling food, and live music is meant to create a lively, fun atmosphere for customers all season long.

Ricky Palermo Foundation Donates to United Memorial Medical Center

For nearly 30 years, the Ricky Palermo Foundation has supported healing and rehabilitation efforts, donating more than two million dollars to medical and community organizations.
This week, foundation founder Ricky Palermo presented a twelve-thousand-dollar donation to United Memorial Medical Center, with the gift accepted by hospital president Jill Graziano to support patient care.
Hospital officials say the donation reflects the foundation’s long-standing commitment to patients and families in Genesee County.
Proceeds from the foundation also benefit Strong Memorial Hospital’s spinal wing, the Batavia YMCA FES Bike Program, and the Miami Project to Cure Paralysis.
The foundation is preparing to celebrate its 30th year of community giving.

European Leaders Push Back on Trump Comments About Greenland

Several European leaders pushed back Tuesday against comments from President Donald Trump suggesting the United States should seek control of Greenland.
Leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the United Kingdom joined Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in a joint statement reaffirming that Greenland belongs to its people. Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and a member of the NATO alliance.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also voiced support for Denmark and Greenland, announcing a planned visit to the island by senior Canadian officials.
Despite the international pushback, the White House has not softened its stance, arguing Greenland is critical to U.S. and NATO security due to rising Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic.
Danish and European leaders say Greenland’s future will be decided only by Greenland and Denmark.

Bethany Water District Project Breaks Ground

Construction is now underway on the Town of Bethany’s long-awaited public water project.
Town Supervisor Carl Hyde Jr. announced Tuesday that pipe is officially going into the ground for Water District Number Five, which will bring public water service to nearly 480 homes, farms, and businesses.
The project has been more than a decade in the making and will supply water from the Town of Batavia. Town officials say the system will greatly benefit residents and dairy farms that have relied on hauling water for years.
Work on the district is expected to continue through 2027, marking a major step forward for Bethany’s infrastructure and future growth.

Heavy Casualties Reported After U.S. Raid in Venezuela

Venezuelan officials say at least two dozen security officers were killed during the U.S. military operation that captured former president Nicolás Maduro and brought him to the United States to face drug trafficking charges.
Venezuela’s attorney general claims dozens of officials and civilians may have died in the overnight raid and has called for an investigation into what he described as a possible war crime. Cuba’s government says more than 30 Cuban military and police personnel stationed in Venezuela were also killed.
U.S. officials acknowledge that American forces were injured during the operation, but say none were killed. The Pentagon has not released details on those injuries.
President Donald Trump has pushed back against criticism from Democrats, calling the mission a success. Meanwhile, international concern continues to grow over rising tensions and the future of U.S. involvement in the region.

Assemblyman Hawley Announces January Office Hours in Batavia

Assemblyman Steve Hawley has announced January mobile office hours, including multiple dates in Batavia.
Hawley’s staff will be available at the Genesee County Satellite Office, located at 420 East Main Street, on January 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th, from noon until 5 p.m. Constituents can also call 585-345-9910 for assistance.
Hawley says the office hours are meant to give residents an opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and receive help with state-related issues.
He encourages anyone in need of assistance to stop by, noting his office remains accessible to Batavia residents year-round.