Friday News Brief

Hawley Backs Bipartisan Bill to Bring Fentanyl Education to All New York Schools

In Albany, Assemblyman Steve Hawley is throwing his support behind a new bipartisan effort to fight the fentanyl crisis in New York schools.
Hawley joined lawmakers at the Capitol this week to back Assembly Bill A.8540 — also known as the Fentanyl Fathers and Mothers Act. The proposal would require all public, private, and charter schools in the state to implement a comprehensive Fentanyl Education and Awareness Program for students.
Hawley was joined by students from Oakfield-Alabama who gave a powerful presentation on the link between mental health, substance abuse, and the need for stronger state support. The students also called for higher pay for mental health professionals and more access to recovery services.
“Protecting our young people from drug abuse is one of our most important tasks,” said Hawley, adding that nearly every family in his district has been touched by the opioid crisis.
The legislation aims to educate youth on the deadly risks of synthetic opioids and counterfeit pills — with the goal of saving lives and turning the tide of addiction across New York.

Music at the Downs

Knight Patrol is set to perform live this Saturday night, June 14th, at Batavia Downs.
The popular local rock band will take the stage at 9:30 PM inside Club Bud Light at 34 Rush, located on Park Road in Batavia. Attendees are encouraged to come early to enjoy food and drinks before the show.
For more information and event details, visit bataviadownsgaming.com.

Hit and Run in Rochester

13WHAM News reports, in Rochester, two young motorcyclists are recovering after being hit by a car late Wednesday night.
Police say the crash happened around 11:15 p.m. at the intersection of Lake Avenue and Emerson Street. A 19-year-old and an 18-year-old, both from Greece, were riding southbound with the right of way when they were struck by an eastbound Ford sedan that ran a stop sign.
Both motorcyclists were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Police say the driver of the sedan and a passenger fled the scene on foot.
No arrests have been made, and the investigation is still ongoing.

GCC’s BEST Center Launches Fall Welding and Plumbing Programs for Adult Learners

Genesee Community College’s BEST Center is offering new opportunities this fall for those looking to enter the skilled trades.
Starting September 2nd, the Business and Employee Skills Training Center will launch evening courses in Welding and Plumbing, tailored for working adults. Upon completion, students will earn industry-recognized credentials to help jump-start their careers.
The Welding Fundamentals Program, led by GCC instructor Sal Bonafide, covers a range of techniques including MIG, TIG, stick, and flux-cored arc welding, along with safety and equipment training. Bonafide, who brings over 15 years of industry experience, says he’s eager to work with a new generation of welders.
Meanwhile, the Plumbing Certificate Program will be taught by Master Plumber Walter Szczesny, a lifelong Batavia resident and business owner. The course includes theory, hands-on training, and OSHA 10-Hour Safety certification.
To learn more about these programs and other offerings, visit genesee.edu and check out the BEST Center’s Technical Programs page.

Bergen Park Festival

The Annual Bergen Park Festival returns to Hickory Park on Saturday, June 14th with a full day of fun for the whole family!
Enjoy a car show, parade, live music, food trucks, chicken BBQ, pony rides, yoga in the park, a basketball tournament, and even fireworks to end the night. With over 60 vendors and activities for all ages, it’s a summer event you won’t want to miss.
For the full schedule, check out the Bergen Park Festival Facebook page.

Child Predator Convicted in Canandaigua

In Canandaigua, a 19-year-old man is awaiting sentencing after being convicted of a first-degree criminal sexual act involving a child.
The Ontario County District Attorney’s Office says Dakota Murphy, of Canandaigua, was found guilty by a jury after sexually abusing an 11-year-old developmentally delayed child earlier this year.
District Attorney Jim Ritts praised the victim’s courage, calling her testimony in court “unbelievable,” and saying the verdict proves “the voice of a child does matter.”
Murphy faces up to 25 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for June 26.

Girl Scouts Visit UMMC

Rochester Regional Health partnered with Batavia-area Girl Scouts for a special Fun Patch event at United Memorial Medical Center. Over a dozen girls, ages 6 to 12, earned the RRH Stroke Superstar patch by learning stroke warning signs and how to call for help.
The Scouts toured the hospital, explored medical equipment, and met healthcare heroes. They also donated blankets to the Lipson Cancer Center for patients and families.
With strokes happening every 40 seconds in the U.S. and rising among younger people, RRH emphasizes the importance of early recognition and quick action. This event highlights RRH’s commitment to community health education and saving lives.

Muckdogs

The Batavia Muckdogs cruised to an 8-1 victory over the Geneva Red Wings Thursday night. With the win, Batavia improves to 5-3 on the season.
The Muckdogs were strong on both sides of the ball, holding Geneva to just one run while delivering solid offense at the plate.
Batavia hits the road tonight as they travel to Elmira to take on the Pioneers. First pitch is scheduled for 6:30 p.m.