Friday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on January 2, 2026
Richmond Memorial Library Announces Staff Promotions, New Hire
Richmond Memorial Library has announced several staff updates, including a promotion and a new hire aimed at expanding services and programming.
Laura Dumuhosky, who joined the library in November of 2023, was promoted to Assistant Library Director in November of 2025. Library Director Samantha Stryker says Dumuhosky has been an invaluable asset, bringing experience from academic libraries while improving internal processes and staff development. Dumuhosky will continue to serve as Media Services Librarian, overseeing the library’s audio-visual collection.
The library has also filled its Non-Fiction and IT Librarian position with Gabriel Fox. Fox previously worked with the Niagara Falls Public Library and the Buffalo and Erie County Public Libraries, and is expected to expand technology-focused programming.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth Beardslee has moved into the role of Community and Adult Services Librarian after several years leading technology upgrades and new adult programs.
Library officials say the team is well-positioned to grow programming in the year ahead.
Clarendon, Byron Building Official Charged with Felony Larceny
A longtime building inspector for the Town of Clarendon and code enforcement officer for the Town of Byron is facing felony charges.
State Police say Melissa M. Ierlan, 54, of Holley, was arrested December 30th and charged with second-degree grand larceny, involving property valued over 50-thousand dollars, and falsifying business records.
Troopers say the alleged larceny was reported early Tuesday morning. Ierlan was arraigned in CAP Court. No additional details were released, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Several New York Laws Take Effect as New Year Begins
As the New Year begins, several new laws are now in effect across New York State.
Minimum wage workers will see a 50-cent hourly increase. The minimum wage is now 16 dollars an hour across most of the state, including the Rochester region, and 17 dollars an hour in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County.
A statewide ban on polystyrene, or Styrofoam, coolers is now in effect, aimed at reducing long-term environmental pollution.
New laws also expand health care access. Close friends can now authorize organ and tissue donations when no family member is available. Insurance plans are required to provide broader coverage for EpiPens, breast cancer screenings, and scalp cooling systems used during chemotherapy.
State officials say the changes are designed to improve affordability, health care access, and environmental protection statewide.
City of Batavia Urges Residents to Clear Sidewalks
The City of Batavia is reminding residents and property owners to keep sidewalks clear as additional snow is expected today.
City Director of Public Works Tom Phelps says snow and ice from recent storms make prompt shoveling especially important, with schools set to reopen next week and students expected to be walking to and from school.
City officials note that clear sidewalks are critical for pedestrian safety and accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.
Property owners are also reminded that clearing sidewalks is required by city code. The city thanks residents and businesses for helping keep walkways safe during winter weather.
