Friday News Brief
Written by Dan Fischer on May 16, 2025
Genesee County Celebrates National Police Week
This week is National Police Week, a time to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers across the country — and right here in Genesee County.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day, with the week surrounding it set aside to recognize the dedication of those who serve.
The Genesee County Legislature has officially recognized May 11th through 17th as National Police Week, and the Old County Courthouse cupola has been lit blue in their honor.
This year, members of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, including the Honor Guard, traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in Police Week events, including the 37th Annual Candlelight Vigil and a ceremony at the National Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial, where Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello was added to the memorial wall alongside fallen heroes from our community.
Sheriff Joseph Graff says this is a week to remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice, and to thank every officer who serves day in and day out.
So this week, take a moment to say thank you to a police officer — their courage and commitment help keep us all safe.
Concert at Holland Land Office Museum
The Holland Land Office Museum is proud to welcome back the DSP Trio for a night of smooth jazz this evening, May 16th at 7 p.m.!
Enjoy the sounds of local talents Derek Reiss, Skip Taylor, and Peter Mark as they bring their toe-tapping jazz tunes to the museum.
Admission is just $5, or $4 for museum members. To reserve your spot, call 585-343-4727 or email hollandlandoffice@gmail.com.
Weed Farm Busted in Wayne County
13WHAM News reports, Two men are facing federal charges after authorities uncovered a massive illegal marijuana operation in Walworth, Wayne County.
The DEA launched an investigation back in January into a cultivation site on Daansen Road, following a tip. Prosecutors say Ferrydoon Ardehali, of Staten Island, and Colby Riggle, of California, were running the unlicensed operation under the name Integrity Farms & Greenhouses, Inc.
Investigators say the pair sold cannabis to licensed growers in North Tonawanda,and Clarence— despite never having a New York State license to grow marijuana.
On Wednesday, agents seized over 29,000 plants and 3,700 pounds of processed marijuana.
If convicted, the men could face up to 10 years in prison.
New Solar Project in Batavia Enters Planning Phase
A new solar energy project is moving through the planning process in the Town of Batavia. At a recent Planning Board meeting, engineers unveiled a proposal for a 5-megawatt solar array on Lewiston Road, aimed at producing clean energy while blending into the community.
The project — led by Advanced Solar Power Holdings and designed by Metzger Civil Engineering — would transform 35 acres of farmland into a solar farm. Developers say the design keeps panels well away from neighboring homes, preserves trees, adds screening plants, and uses pollinator-friendly ground cover to support local ecosystems.
The plan meets all town zoning rules, requires no variances, and even leaves room for a future public road to improve local traffic flow — a feature tied to the town’s long-term master plan.
A minor subdivision is also included to create a residential lot and preserve space for future development.
The Planning Board has begun a coordinated environmental review and scheduled a public hearing for June 3rd, inviting residents, local agencies, and the school district to weigh in. A Host Community Agreement and decommissioning bond are also in progress.
Batavia Players Perform This Weekend
Experience the passion and power of Jesus Christ Superstar—opening tonight at Main St. 56 Theater in Batavia! This electrifying rock opera from Andrew Lloyd Webber brings the final days of Jesus to life with unforgettable music and raw emotion.
Tonight’s performance is at 7:30 p.m., with more shows all weekend long.
Tickets are $22 online, $24 at the door. Don’t miss this bold, local production—visit Main St. 56 Theater for details!
Fight Leads to Police Presence at Kodak Tower
A large student fight at Eugenio María de Hostos Charter School’s high school in Rochester led to a major police response and a temporary shutdown of State Street on Thursday.
Police say around 12:30 p.m., a fight broke out between students from two different classrooms—about 15 students in total. When officers arrived, a smaller altercation was still ongoing. During efforts to break it up, one officer was reportedly pushed, triggering an increased police presence outside the school at Kodak Tower.
Two juveniles were detained, and police say charges are under consideration.
No injuries were reported, and State Street has since reopened.
Sports Scores
In Genesee County high school baseball action Thursday:
Pembroke shut out Alexander with a dominant 13–0 victory.
Meanwhile, Batavia brought the bats, racking up 25 runs in a blowout win over Attica, who managed just 2.
Here’s a look at Genesee County high school softball scores from Thursday:
Le Roy slipped past Perry, 3 to 2.
Kendall took down Notre Dame-Batavia, 12 to 4.
Pembroke edged Alexander, 7 to 6, in a nail-biter.
And Attica rolled over Holley, 8 to 1.
