Friday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on April 17, 2026
PEMBROKE SUPERINTENDENT MATTHEW CALDERÓN ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT
After more than two decades with the district, Pembroke Central School Superintendent Matthew Calderón has announced he will retire at the end of the school year.
Calderón, who has served 23 years in the district including 15 as superintendent, submitted his resignation this week, saying the decision comes after thoughtful reflection as he prepares for the next chapter.
During his tenure, he led the district through major challenges and milestones, including the COVID-19 pandemic, budget pressures, and capital improvement projects.
Calderón says one of the most impactful moments of his career came during his time as an intermediate school principal—losing a student, followed just weeks later by the district earning a National Blue Ribbon award.
He says that experience shaped his belief in balancing strong academics with compassion for students.
Calderón’s retirement becomes official July 1. District officials say former Pembroke and Elba administrator Keith Palmer is being considered to serve as interim superintendent while a full search is conducted.
LE ROY VILLAGE ADOPTS BUDGET WITH 10% TAX HIKE
The Village of Le Roy has approved a $4.6 million budget for 2026-27 that includes a 10% increase in the tax levy.
The plan raises the tax rate to $8.80 per $1,000 of assessed value, up from $7.99 this year, as officials point to rising costs—especially in utilities, personnel, and police operations.
Village leaders say inflation and infrastructure expenses are driving the increase, while some residents voiced concerns about the lack of growth and rising tax burden.
Officials say they are continuing to look for ways to control costs, including leaving some police positions unfilled and exploring future development opportunities.
TWO BATAVIA POLICE OFFICERS PROMOTED DURING COUNCIL MEETING
Two members of the Batavia Police Department were promoted this week during a City Council meeting.
Joseph Weglarski, a four-year veteran, was sworn in as police sergeant. He’s a three-time STOP-DWI “Top Cop” award winner and has served as a Field Training Officer and member of the Neighborhood Enforcement Team.
William Yung, a five-year veteran, was promoted to detective. He’s part of the Crisis Negotiation Team, Honor Guard, and is certified in crisis intervention.
Both officers were sworn in to applause and congratulated by City Council leadership.
Photo Courtesy of White House Website
JUDGE BLOCKS WHITE HOUSE BALLROOM PROJECT AS TRUMP FIRES BACK
A federal judge is continuing to block above-ground construction of a planned $400 million White House ballroom, drawing a sharp response from Donald Trump.
U.S. District Judge Richard Leon ruled that while work on underground security features like bunkers can continue, construction above ground cannot move forward without congressional approval.
Trump criticized the decision on social media, calling the judge biased and accusing him of undermining national security.
The administration is now appealing the ruling, arguing the project includes critical protections against threats like drones and missiles.
Meanwhile, preservation groups that challenged the project say they’re pleased with the decision, as the legal battle over the ballroom continues.
OXBO CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING OF NEW BERGEN FACILITY
A major investment in Genesee County’s agricultural economy is now official, as Oxbo celebrates the grand opening of its new manufacturing facility in Bergen.
The $60.5 million, 200,000 square-foot plant at Apple Tree Acres Corporate Park will serve as the company’s U.S. headquarters and is expected to create up to 78 new jobs.
The facility will produce advanced harvesters for crops like seed corn, green beans, and peas, while also featuring expanded machining capabilities, a product showroom, and an outdoor test track.
State and local leaders are praising the project, with Governor Kathy Hochul calling it a boost for New York’s agricultural future.
The project was supported by up to $2.5 million in state tax credits, along with assistance from Genesee County and regional partners.
Officials say the new site strengthens both the local workforce and the region’s role in global ag manufacturing.
10-DAY CEASEFIRE BEGINS BETWEEN ISRAEL AND LEBANON
A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon is now underway, following more than a month of fighting involving the Iran-backed Hezbollah group.
The truce, announced by Donald Trump, began at midnight local time and is aimed at creating a path toward broader peace talks between the two nations.
Despite the agreement, tensions remain high. Israel says it will maintain a military presence in southern Lebanon during the ceasefire, while Hezbollah warns it will respond to any violations.
Diplomatic efforts are ramping up, with plans for potential talks at the White House—what could be the first direct high-level meeting between the countries in decades.
Officials say the next several days will be critical in determining whether the ceasefire can hold and lead to a longer-term agreement.
PUBLIC ROLLER SKATING RETURNS IN BATAVIA
Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Public roller skating is back at the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena.
Skating takes place Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 to 9 pm, with admission set at $5 and skate rentals available for $3.
Organizers say it’s a great way to get out, stay active, and enjoy a night on wheels.
For more information, you can reach out by email to kati@mccarthyicearena.com.
