Local News

A search is still underway for a man that Ontario County authorities say should be considered armed and dangerous. Law enforcement tried to arrest 26-year-old Jonathan Matthews as part of an ongoing drug investigation in Canandaigua Monday. But Matthews was able to get away in a vehicle and triggered a pursuit that was called off to try and protect public safety. Matthews has an extensive criminal history and anyone with information on his whereabouts should report it immediately.

Cheektowaga authorities are investigating the death of a four-year-old boy who became unresponsive in a private pool yesterday. Police were called around 4:30 p.m. to a home on Constance Lane and found the child unresponsive. Emergency crews began life-saving efforts and transferred the boy to Oishei Children’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The investigation is ongoing.

A former substitute teacher with the Dansville Central School District will be spending decades behind bars. A judge has sentenced 33-year-old Derek Hagen to 20 years in prison on federal child pornography charges. Hagen pleaded guilty in 2022 for producing and having tens of thousands of disturbing images of minors that he shared with people on the internet. Once he’s released from custody, he’ll be on probation for 13 years.

Governor Hochul says she is committed to making sure millions of kids have access to free meals at school. Hochul’s plan would subsidize the cost of breakfast and lunch to help address food insecurity. The governor also says her proposal would help parents who may be struggling to feed their children save money. New York currently receives $2 billion in federal funding to support school meal programs.

Monroe County deputies are identifying the victim of a fatal motorcycle accident earlier this week. They say 46-year-old Neil Rogers was traveling near the intersection of West Ridge Road and Route 259 in Parma Wednesday when a car turned into his path. Rogers was rushed to a nearby hospital but later pronounced dead. Police ticketed the driver he collided with for failing to yield the right of way.

The former owner of Rapids Theatre has pled guilty to defrauding COVID relief programs out of more than a million dollars. Officials say 71-year-old John L. Hutchins conspired with co-defendant Roberto Soliman and others to file fraudulent loan applications for assistance under the Economic Injury Disaster Loan, Paycheck Protection and Shuttered Venue Operators Grant programs. The loans available for these programs were designed to provide emergency financial assistance under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. Hutchins faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a million dollar fine. Charges remain pending against Soliman.

Genesee Brewery is unveiling details of its brand-new $28 million canning line. The company says this line will allow Genesee to generate over 15 million additional cases of its products at the rapid clip of 15-hundred cans per minute. And, 10 of the almost 60 new jobs created thanks to an investment by Genesee’s parent company will involve direct work on the line. In addition to Genesee, Labatt, Lipton Hard Ice Tea and Seagrams will can its products locally.

Spring has arrived and that means it’s the perfect time for the annual Rochester Home and Garden Show. That event is happening tomorrow and Sunday at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. Hundreds of exhibitors will be in attendance and folks can learn about things like renovations, remodeling, patios and decks. There is also going to be face painting for kids from 11:00am until 3:00pm. More details are available online.

Despite a valiant effort, the Sabres couldn’t hold and lost 5-2 to the Utah Hockey Club last night. JJ Peterka and Ryan McLeod both scored for Buffalo in the loss. The currently last place Sabres will take the ice Saturday afternoon as their road trip continues; they face the Minnesota Wild with face-off at 2:00.

And this week 49 years ago in 1976, Genesis began its first North American tour since Peter Gabriel left the band the previous year. The road trip started in Buffalo. Drummer Phil Collins took over as lead singer.

With only 6 weeks to go until the federal REAL ID Act becomes enforceable, the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging state residents to make sure they are prepared. Beginning on May 7, 2025, anyone going through airport security to fly domestically or attempting to enter secure federal facilities will be required to have a REAL ID or another form of compliant identification such as an Enhanced ID or Passport. For those who need to upgrade their state-issued ID before May 7, the DMV is strongly encouraging them to act as soon as possible.

A rising star in the world of country music joins the list of performers at this year’s New York State Fair. Kameron Marlowe is set to take the Chevy Court stage Saturday, August 23rd at 6:00pm. Marlowe is best known for his hit song “Giving You Up” which has been streamed more than 100 million times on Spotify. The show is free with admission to the fair, which runs from August 20th through September 1st.

Governor Kathy Hochul is making a last-minute push for a mask ban in New York. It’s not going on publicly — it’s all going on behind closed doors in Albany in the Governor’s state budget talks with lawmakers. There’s word that she’s likely to get behind a bill by Bronx Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz and Orange Senator James Skoufis. It doesn’t ban masks outright, but would hike the penalty for harassment when someone deliberately hides their face while menacing or threatening violence against others. The bill is supported by the NAACP and the Anti-Defamation League.

Forecasters are warning those with seasonal allergies that pollen counts will be higher than usual across much of the U.S. this year. A senior meteorologist at AccuWeather said Thursday that pollen counts would exceed historical averages in 39 states as the warm weather approaches. The experts say those who suffer from allergies should prepare for an intense allergy season that could linger into autumn. They say allergy seasons across the country are lasting one to four weeks longer than they did 50 years ago because of changing climate conditions.

The City of Batavia Police Department has released their 2024-year in review. They handled 1120 domestic incidents; responded to 803 disturbance calls; investigated 920 reported larcenies and responded to 715 mental health incidents. 264 total warrants were processed and made 635 arrests, 22 of which were juveniles. City Police also investigated 493 automobile crashes, with 70 of the accidents resulting in personal injury. They conducted 3,207 traffic stops and issued 1,790 traffic tickets, and issued 1,729 parking violations. Batavia City Police also remember Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, who died in the line of duty on March 10, 2024 while working a security detail at Batavia Downs. They rendered aid immediately and then took over the criminal investigation. Both suspects were apprehended on location and charged with homicide. Both entered into plea agreements and have been sentenced. Sgt. Sanfratello was a dispatcher for City Police prior to becoming a Deputy at the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Two people have been hospitalized after a possible chemical exposure at the Attica Correctional Facility. Officials say a staff member opened an envelope, and an unknown powder spilled out. It resulted in the person becoming sick, and the police, EMTs and HAZMAT had to be notified. A nurse was also sent to the hospital. The incident remains under investigation.

State Police are revealing the results of their latest Saint Patrick’s Day enforcement initiative. From Friday March 14th through Monday, March 17th 239 people were arrested for DWI, including 27 in the Finger Lakes and Western New York. There were over 11,000 tickets handed out statewide for traffic violations like speeding and distracted driving. During 2024’s enforcement campaign 8,800 tickets were issued and 217 DWI arrests were made.

The Erie County Department of Personnel sent a memo yesterday calling for fired corrections officers to be excluded from being hired for any civil service job in local government. This comes after Governor Kathy Hochul passed an executive order that bans those officers from being rehired in the state again. Peter Anderson, a spokesman for the county administration, said they follow the guidance of New York State Civil Service in these matters, and that if the state amends its guidance in the future, Erie County will adopt that amended guidance.

In response to a recent uptick in measles cases, Gov. Kathy Hochul has launched a new web portal aimed at improving access to vaccines and public health information for New Yorkers. The initiative comes as the state reports four measles cases this year, with three in New York City and one in Suffolk County. The new portal aims to support vaccination efforts, provide educational resources and engage health care providers. The state urges all residents to ensure they are up to date with their measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) immunizations, especially as misinformation and vaccine hesitancy have contributed to declining vaccination rates. The New York State Department of Health is actively monitoring the situation and working with local health departments to investigate cases and distribute vaccines as needed. The department also combats vaccine fraud, which is a felony-level criminal offense in New York, by collaborating with schools, law enforcement and other stakeholders. Measles, a highly contagious respiratory disease, is spread through coughing or sneezing, and symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after infection.

The East Aurora School District is responding after claims of racism among their students. Superintendent of schools Brian Russ said in a statement that there have been several incidents of racial discrimination that have occurred within the schools. He added that racism has no place in their schools and everyone must be committed to creating a safe environment where everyone feels valued and supported.

An Ontario County firefighter is now in trouble with the law after being arrested on an arson charge. It’s alleged 19-year-old Joshua Musgrove intentionally set a dumpster on fire in the rear parking lot of the Foster Block Apartments on Crane Street in Clifton Springs Tuesday. Musgrove then responded to the scene with members of his fire department and helped knock down the flames. No one was hurt and Musgrove will be in court at a later date.

A driver has been ticketed following a crash in Parma that left a motorcyclist dead. Authorities say the motorcyclist was traveling near the intersection of West Ridge Road and Route 259 yesterday when a car turned in front of him. The man, whose name has not been released. was brought to a nearby hospital but couldn’t be saved. The person behind the wheel of the car was cited for failing to yield the right of way.

For the first time in franchise history, the Buffalo Sabres will be taking the ice in Utah tonight. The Sabres are set to battle the Utah Hockey Club at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. Buffalo is currently on a two-game winning streak after beating the Boston Bruins three to two in overtime on Monday night. Face-off for their contest this evening is scheduled for 9:00.

Organizers have set the date for this year’s Rochester Pride Parade and Festival. The parade steps off on July 19th at the corner of South Avenue and Science Parkway before ending at Highland Park. Last year’s event drew a record crowd of roughly 20,000 people which made it the largest Pride celebration in Rochester’s history. Admission for the festival is five dollars but kids 12 and under are free. For more details, visit trilliumhealth.org.

48-year-old Jennifer Moscicki of Batavia has been arrested and charged with petit larceny. It’s alleged she stole merchandise from Aldi. Moscicki was issued an appearance ticket to return to court. ALSO: 49-year-old Kelly Mungo of Batavia was arrested for petit larceny, after allegedly stealing merchandise from Aldi. She was issued an appearance ticket. ALSO: 31-year-old Mercedes Ramon-Rodriguez of Batavia was arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child. She allegedly left a 3-year-old child home alone. Ramon-Rodriguez was issued an appearance ticket for City Court next Tuesday, March 25^th. ALSO: 20-year-old Jazmyn R. Bater of Batavia was arrested by City Police and charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Bater allegedly struck another person in the head several times, while the other person was holding a child. Bater was issued an appearance ticket. ALSO: 38-year-old Jennifer Wilson of Auburndale, Florida was arrested on a bench warrant. Wilson was initially charged with criminal trespass, obstructing governmental administration, and resisting arrest, following an incident on February 26, 2024. The warrant was issued after Wilson failed to appear in court. She was arraigned in CAP Court and is scheduled to appear in City Court at a later date.

 

Governor Hochul says more than $270 million in funding will be used to preserve over 1,800 affordable homes across New York. In our region, money is going towards the Fine Arts Building Lofts and Fernwood Avenue Apartments in Rochester as well as the Creekside Clearing Redevelopment in Livonia. The governor believes that the solution to the state’s housing crisis is building more homes. She’s also expressing support for passing legislation to expand the Low-Income Housing Tax credit.

 

Federal prosecutors are looking to hold convicted Pharaoh’s Gentlemen’s Club owner Peter Gerace in criminal contempt after he gave interviews this past weekend about his trial. While talking to reporters, Gerace reportedly shared criticism about how prosecutors handled his case, as well as sharing his decision not to testify.   Prosecutors say he violated a judge’s order issued last week, which said he must follow the policies of the U.S. Marshal’s Service, which requires permission on several levels to do interviews with media outlets.

 

A new report is showing that 40% of kids in Rochester are currently living in poverty. This data was gathered by The Children’s Agenda and that group is making recommendations it believes can help address this problem. They include boosting employment opportunities and career pathways for residents, making investments in neighborhoods and supporting youth development. The City Parks and Public Works Committee will discuss this report during a meeting April 8th.

 

Erie County officials have announced that they’re filing a lawsuit against the Corporation for National and Community Service, also known as Americorps.   The decision comes after the agency ended a grant program that funded the placement of hundreds of senior volunteers. Erie County officials say Americorps wants to take it away because of President Donald Trump’s executive order, which seeks to end support for diversity, equity, and inclusion purposes.

 

The victim of a fatal house fire in Lancaster on Monday has been identified.   Authorities say 41-year-old Kimberly Kloc died after the blaze broke out at her house on Central Ave., which is just north of Walden Avenue. Crews had to demolish the house due to the damage. The cause of the fire remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact Lancaster police.

 

Testimony is scheduled to resume today in the manslaughter trial of Jarrid Mix.   He’s the person prosecutors claim was involved in the beating of his girlfriend’s two-year-old son back in 2022.   An autopsy revealed the boy suffered severe internal injuries while he was being cared for by Mix. His lawyer believes the prosecution won’t be able to prove the allegations against his client. If convicted, Mix could be ordered to serve prison time.

 

A judge has ruled to uphold a law that limits how much money state lawmakers can earn in outside income. That income limit went into effect this past January, and there are nearly 40 lawmakers whose outside income surpasses the $35,000 per year barrier. This legislation was aimed at reducing any conflicts of interest connected with outside employment. Some legislators have already filed a notice of appeal.

 

The Buffalo Sabres are on the hunt for three wins in a row as their road trip continues. They play tomorrow night in Utah against the Hockey Club. Face-off is at 9:00.

 

Rochester Red Wings fans are going to notice a big change at Innovative Field this season. That’s because the venue will be cashless for all transactions including concessions, parking, tickets and merchandise. The team says folks can use their credit or debit cards as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay. The home opener for the Red Wings will be April 1st against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs.

 

Tomorrow evening (Thursday, 3/20) from 6:30 to 8:00, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy music performed by Bart Dentino. The Batavia First Presbyterian Church, 300 East Main Street, Batavia is hosting the event, which is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome and appreciated, with all proceeds benefiting and supporting the Genesee Wyoming County Warming Center, during the cold, winter nights.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul says the tariff war between Canada and the U.S. is continuing to hit New York State hard. Hochul says the average New York family may end up paying up to $3,000 more over the course of a year if the tariffs remain in effect that long.   Hochul says fewer Canadians are crossing the border to visit. She says that’s the word she got from Manhattan hotel managers as well as theaters in Buffalo.   Hochul says the tariffs are also going to make it harder to build more housing at a time when there is a severe housing shortage in the state.

 

 

A traffic alert for you: The Town of Batavia Water Department is finishing a water service line project on Shepard Road, near the intersection of Ellicott Street Road today tomorrow, Wednesday, March 19^th from 7:00am until 4:00pm. Traffic is closed off from Shepard Road in the area the work is being performed. Please plan to use an alternate route. As is always the case, when the water is restored, it may be discolored. Folks in the effected area should refrain from doing laundry until the water runs clear.

 

A Chief of Narcotics and Intelligence officer is under investigation for an alleged hit-and-run cover up. A lawsuit filed about the incident last April states former officer Daniel “DJ” Granville was impaired at the time of the crash at the intersection of Jersey Street and Prospect Avenue in Buffalo. He had lost control and hit several vehicles in a county-owned truck before leaving the scene. He was ticketed for driving the wrong way down a one-way street and cost Erie County taxpayers 60-thousand dollars in a settlement. Buffalo Police Lt. Lucia Esquilin is “DJ” Granville’s sister-in-law who signed off on the police report. “DJ” Granville who is the older brother of undercover narcotics detective William “Billy” Granville was also involved in a car crash but eight years earlier. “Billy” Granville was accused of not reporting the accident and was disciplined for seven days without pay. A resolution was passed by Erie County legislators to create a special investigative committee for former officer “DJ” Granville hit-and-run cover up.

 

State Attorney General Letitia James has taken action to protect New Yorkers from unwanted robocalls. Together with 27 other attorneys general, James filed a brief to support and defend a rule by the Federal Communications Commission that stops telemarketers from obtaining and selling consumers’ phone numbers to robocallers without their consent. The coalition writes that the rule is effective by targeting robocalls at one of their sources: the point where consumer contact information is first obtained. In addition, they argue that the FCC’s rule protects consumers by providing them with clear and conspicuous disclosures when consenting to sharing their contact information with a seller, such as a website that they use to search for products or receive a quote on a service.

 

The deadline to pass a new state budget is two weeks away, and lawmakers say an agreement could be reached on time. Governor Hochul is proposing $252 billion dollars in spending while the Assembly and Senate are calling for $256 billion and $259 billion, respectively.   Negotiations will now center on coming up with a compromise on the budget’s final price tag as well as policy issues that’ll be part of it. Some of those items include inflation rebate checks, prison oversight and reforms and solar tax credits.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has joined with 31 other state senators demanding a reversal of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s cancellation of food purchase programs across the county, warning of the harmful impacts this move will have on families and farmers across the state. The USDA cancelled funding through the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program and the similar Local Food for Schools. The programs allowed state, territorial and Tribal governments to purchase food from American farmers to be distributed to food banks, schools, and child care centers. Canceling the funding puts more than $63 million for food purchases at risk this year, and subsequently decrease the availability of local foods for the programs that rely on them to feed New York residents in need.

 

A fraud investigation is ongoing against a former worker at the Department of Public Works. The Niagara County District Attorney’s Office said that person was employed by the city for over 14 years and the investigation is in relation to compensation.   The former employee has not been formally charged. No other information has been released.

 

A new bus driver shortage plan at Sweet Home Central School District is causing parents to be upset. The Board of Education’s new plan has students walking to school if they are living within a quarter of a mile away. Some parents said that they’re concerned over the lack of supervision with streets and no crossing guards, predators and severe weather conditions. Parents had placed a petition on change.org, which so far is supported with a little over 360 signatures. This new transportation rule “places an overwhelming burden on parents who are already struggling with the late school start times. This seemingly minor change disrupts the already hectic daily routines of parents and homeowners within the radius, making their lives even more challenging logistically and financially.” The Superintendent tells WIVB that “We will present a plan to our community at the April 8th Board of Education study session that specifically addresses the walking radius.”

 

More details are now being released about the death of an Avon man over the weekend. According to deputies, 61-year-old Jonathan Mills pushed the victim down a flight of stairs during a confrontation at a home on West Main Street Sunday. The victim was brought to Strong Memorial Hospital but couldn’t be saved. Mills was arrested at the scene and is charged with manslaughter. The circumstances surrounding the incident are still unclear at this time; the investigation into the incident is ongoing.

 

Construction is set to begin on a major bridge replacement project in Monroe County.   Transportation officials say aging structures that bring traffic on Interstate 490 over the Erie Canal and Kreag Road in Perinton are in need of significant upgrades. During this work, the highway will be reduced to just one lane in each direction, meaning motorists can expect delays and may want to seek alternate routes. The project is expected to wrap up by the end of 2027.

 

The Buffalo Sabres have earned back-to-back victories after an overtime victory on the road. Alex Tuch scored with just under 11 seconds left in the extra period as the Sabres beat the Boston Bruins by a final score of three to two at TD Garden last night. Peyton Krebs and Owen Power also had a goal each and Buffalo’s goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen stopped 19 of the 21 shots he faced in the contest. The next game for the Sabres is Thursday night in Utah against the Hockey Club. Face-off is at 9:00.

 

A five-time Grammy Award nominated band is coming to Western New York this summer. The Killers are set to take the stage at CMAC in Canandaigua on Saturday night, August 2nd at 8:00. Buffalo Bills fans know the group for their song “Mister Brightside” and the band also has other major hits including “When You Were Young” and “Somebody Told Me.” Seats for this show go on sale this Friday at 10:00am and they can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

 

Keeping teeth healthy doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just the basics.   That includes brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing. The Health Policy Institute says it’s also important to get regular dental checkups and cleanings.   Twice a year is what’s recommended.   The American Dental Association says fluoride matters because it has the power to fight cavities and tooth decay.   They recommend fluoride toothpaste and using a toothbrush with soft, rather than hard bristles to avoid scraping off tooth enamel or damaging your gums.

 

Teams at Georgia Tech have created a baby pacifier that detects a baby’s electrolyte levels. A professor in the Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering tells the AJC the device uses membrane censors to analyze a baby’s saliva. The pacifier can then help detect health issues with a child and assist doctors in understanding a patient’s health. The pacifier developed is also wireless, compatible with Bluetooth, and can be used to transmit data onto a Smartphone or tablet.   Scientists say they hope the pacifier will be a better alternative for babies compared to the old way of drawing blood to check for electrolytes.

 

 

Western New York drivers continue to hand over less of their hard-earned money when it comes time to fill their vehicles, as gas prices continue to inch their way closer to $3.00. As of this afternoon, Triple A says the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.08. The state average sits at $3.11. In Batavia, the average figures out to $3.15 per gallon; that’s the same as it was a week ago; down three cents from a month ago and down a dime from a year ago today.

 

A traffic alert for you: The Town of Batavia Water Department will be replacing a water service line on Shepard Road, near the intersection of Ellicott Street Road on Tuesday and Wednesday, March 18^th and 19th from 7:00am until 4:00pm. Traffic will be closed on Shepard Road in the area the work is being performed. Please plan to use an alternate route. As is always the case, when the water is restored, it may be discolored. Folks in the effected area should refrain from doing laundry until the water runs clear.

 

A former Buffalo Public Schools music teacher has pleaded guilty Wednesday for trying to meet up with a 13-year-old girl. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office said 36-year-old Steven DeMart is facing charges of one count of attempted endangering the welfare of a child. Police said DeMart allegedly communicated and sent sexually explicit videos to the child through an app. The incident happened last May. DeMart was suspended from his job and surrendered his teaching license.

 

Livingston County deputies say an arrest has been made in connection with a man’s death in Avon. Law enforcement were called to a home on West Main Street yesterday and arrived to find the victim, who was rushed to Strong Memorial Hospital but later passed away. Deputies found evidence of an altercation at the home and ended up taking 61-year-old Jonathan Mills into custody before charging him with manslaughter. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

 

Employees with University of Rochester Medicine Home Care have once again voted to go on strike. Last month, many of those workers spent a day on the picket line in front of the company’s headquarters in Webster. They want to reach a deal on a new contract that includes things such as better wages, reasonable caseloads and affordable health care coverage. This next strike could last up to five days and UR Medicine Home Care says it’s committed to reaching a fair agreement.

 

The City of Buffalo set a record-high daily temperature yesterday (Sunday, 3/16/25). Temperatures reached 75-degrees as recorded by the National Weather Service breaking the old record of 70-degrees set back in 1990. However, rain and strong winds washed out the St. Patrick’s Parade, sending revelers to dryer spots indoors.

 

The Buffalo Sabres will be kicking off their four-game road trip tonight in search of a second straight victory. The Sabres are visiting the Boston Bruins in a showdown between the two bottom teams in the NHL’s Atlantic Division. Buffalo last played Saturday when they beat the Vegas Golden Knights in a shootout by a final score of 4 – 3. Face-off this evening is set for 7:00.

 

Tax season is in full swing and the Better Business Bureau is warning the public to beware of scammers.   The latest scam involves a text claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service that advises the recipient they qualify for a $1,400 check as part of the Economic Impact Payment rebate. It also contains a link, but don’t click on it.   The BBB says it leads to a fake but convincing IRS website designed to steal personal and financial information often used for identity theft or fraud.   Anyone eligible for the $1,400 stimulus check will receive it by mail and the IRS will never ask for your personal information through text, email or phone call.

 

Wholesale egg prices are coming down. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is reporting that the national average wholesale price of a dozen eggs dropped $2.70 last week, landing at $4.15. That marks three weeks of declining prices, according to the USDA.

 

With the measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico and isolated cases in 13 other states topping 300 cases, there’s a warning from pediatricians. If your child contracts measles, they could develop a degenerative neurological condition seven to ten years later for which there’s no cure. It’s called subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, or SSPE.   Pediatricians say it’s almost always fatal. The CDC says the best protection is the measles vaccine.

 

 

A Stafford woman has been arrested by the Genesee County Sheriffs and charged with falsely reporting an incident. It’s alleged that 31-year-old Rebecca Harrington reported something to law enforcement that did not occur. Harrington was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled for Town of Stafford Court on April 10.

 

The Town of Bethany is receiving a big financial boost following a water crisis in 2023; they’ll be receiving $5 million from New York State to help form a new water district. Town leaders unanimously approved the formation of a public water district with Batavia after wells in the town went dry for months late in 2023, prompting a state of emergency amid a shortage. State officials said the new infrastructure would provide public drinking water to roughly 1,000 people.

“New York State is continuing its historic investments in clean water infrastructure because every New Yorker deserves access to safe, affordable drinking water,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement. “This is not just an investment in our pipes and treatment plants; it is an investment in the health, well-being, and future of our communities.”

 

A former Buffalo Public Schools music teacher has pleaded guilty to a charge related to attempting to meet up with a teenage girl. 36-year-old Steven DeMart pleaded guilty to one count of attempted endangering the welfare of a child. Prosecutors said DeMart attempted to meet with an individual who he believed was a 13-year-old. DeMart had communicated with the person, who was actually an adult, multiple times through social media apps, including sending sexually explicit videos. The attempted meeting happened on May 28, 2024 and the incident was reported to the Amherst Police Department the same day. DeMart was suspended from his position after the incident was reported to police. As part of his sentence, which was one year of conditional discharge, he was ordered to surrender his teaching license.

 

Governor Hochul met with President Donald Trump on Friday morning. A statement from state press officials summarized the meeting. It reads:

“Governor Hochul and President Trump covered a broad range of topics in today’s meeting, including the redevelopment of Penn Station, congestion pricing, tariffs, and energy policy. While no formal agreements or decisions were reached, it was a productive conversation, and we look forward to continuing the dialogue in the coming weeks.”

 

On Thursday, President Trump said that he and Hochul would be discussing a plan to place an underground pipeline going through a small section of New York. Trump said that it would provide energy cost relief to people in New York and across New England. “The whole of New England and Connecticut and New York, energy prices are through the roof and this one pipeline will save per family $2,500 dollars just on heating,” he said. Hochul sent out a message on X, formerly known as Twitter, on Thursday, saying that they would discuss congestion pricing in New York City, the impact of tariffs on New York State and other topics.

 

State Attorney General Letitia James has won a court order forcing the Trump administration to reinstate thousands of probationary federal employees by March 17^th that had been fired since January 20^th. This resulted from a lawsuit brought by James and a coalition of 19 other Attorneys General, alleging the Trump administration violated federal law by illegally firing the workers without providing advanced notice. Further mass firings are barred at this time, as well. An additional lawsuit was filed by James and other attorneys general yesterday against the Trump administration to stop the dismantling of the United States Department of Education.   ALSO: State Attorney General Letitia James has advanced new legislation to protect consumers and small business from unfair, deceptive and abusive practices. The Fostering Affordability and Integrity through Reasonable Business Practices, or FAIR Act, is intended to strengthen state consumer protection law, to protect residents from a wide array of scams. Forty-seven other states and federal law already prohibit unfair practices, making New York’s current law both antiquated and inadequate. Improvements to state law include help stopping lenders from deceptively steering people into higher cost loans and reduce unnecessary and hidden fees. Other protections include stopping the unfair billing practices by health care companies and preventing companies from taking advantage of state residents with limited English proficiency.

 

Our region is really stepping up to help the family of a Lancaster boy who was killed in a car crash earlier this week. A GoFundMe was set up to help pay for the funeral expenses of 7-year-old Noah Whitmore. Meanwhile, a vigil was held last night to remember the Cayuga Heights Elementary School second grader. At last check, around $36,000 has been donated; their initial goal was just $10,000. You can donate here:   https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-carly-benavides-and-family-after-loss-of-son-noah

 

New details have been released about a house explosion in Greece that left three family members hurt. According to 13WHAM, a report shows that blast on Stone Road last November was caused by an unsecured meter that filled the home with natural gas before it was ignited by an appliance. The front plate on the gas meter wasn’t secured because eight retaining bolts weren’t in place to keep it on. The circumstances of how those bolts were removed is unknown.

 

A graduate student strike could soon happen at the University of Rochester. Graduate workers who want to form a union said the university has backed off from an election agreement. The group is looking to form the union for collective bargaining, claiming some graduate employees make as little as $15,000 a year. They gathered on campus yesterday to protest this development. The group plans to hold a strike vote Monday, March 24. A spokesperson for the U of R released a statement Thursday, saying while the university respects employees’ right to participate in a legal strike, it will not succumb to pressure tactics. They added that entering into a private election agreement is not in the school’s best interests at this time.

 

After a few years of decline, data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows the population in Rochester and surrounding areas rose in 2024. Monroe, Ontario and Wayne counties were among the over 65% of counties nationwide that showed population growth. The years 2020 through 2023 saw population numbers drop, most likely due to the affects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The reason for this latest bump is tied to international migration and a higher birth rate. In case you’re wondering, the City of Batavia’s projected population in 2025 reflects an increase of a tenth of a percent (.1%), from 15,437 to 15,447; and according to the most recent data available, the Town of Batavia’s population at this time is 6,296, a growth rate of a third of a percent (.33%).

 

The Buffalo Sabres are hoping for a win tomorrow. They host the Vegas Golden Knights with face-off at 12:30.

 

Mark Saturday, April 5^th on your calendar to remind you to attend the Alexander Doll Show and Sale, at the Alexander Firemen’s Rec Hall, from 9:30 to 2:30. Admission is $5, children under 12 are free and there will be a free gift for them. Old, new, and collectible dolls and bears will be available, as well as door prizes. Dolls and prints by Dianne Dengel are also featured. Food is available, as well.

 

Thursday evening, March 20^th from 6:30 to 8:00, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy music performed by Bart Dentino. The Batavia First Presbyterian Church, 300 East Main Street, Batavia is hosting the event, which is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome and appreciated, with all proceeds benefiting and supporting the Genesee Wyoming County Warming Center, during the cold, winter nights.

 

 

 

An online memorial is growing for a Lancaster boy who was killed in a car crash earlier this week. The mother of seven-year-old Noah Whitmore created a Facebook group for those wanting to share memories, photos, and condolences to honor her son’s legacy. Nearly 150 people have posted on the site. Those wanting to share their condolences can do so on the Noah Whitmore Memoriam Facebook page. A direct link to their GoFundMe page is here:    https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-carly-benavides-and-family-after-loss-of-son-noah

 

Lawyers for the Tops mass shooter, Payton Gendron were in court again. Yesterday, they asked U.S. District Judge Lawrence Vilardo to dismiss one of the 27 counts in his indictment — the hate-crime charge. Gendron carried out a racially motivated mass shooting that targeted Black people at a grocery store on May 14, 2022, killing 10 and injuring three.  It’s the last charge in the Federal indictment, and it specifically focuses on those who were not killed or injured by Gendron — but rather those who were in and around the store at the time of the shooting.  According to court documents, defense attorneys are arguing that the language used in the argument is too vague because it states that “Payton Gendron used a firearm to attempt to cause bodily injury to unnamed ‘Black people.’ And in court Wednesday, the defense stated that the term “Black people” is not sufficient in identifying a specific individual. Attorneys for Gendron went on to claim that there has to be a clearer identification of individuals — they included examples such as a name or initial. The prosecution stated that they did, in fact, identify a group: the 69 possible victims in and around Tops that day. A decision is forthcoming; however, even if Judge Vilardo rules in favor of the defense, the indictment still contains many other, more serious charges. In a separate motion, Gedron’s defense team, also attempted to throw out the use of the hate crimes act all together. They claimed that it was “unconstitutional” because he was already prosecuted by the New York State hate crime provision. In a decision dropped on Wednesday, Judge Vilardo denied the defense’s request to dismiss the indictment based on the claim of unconstitutionality.

 

The state will have a ban on residential brush burning from March 16 to May 14 due to the increased risk of wildfires. Since 2009, the state Department of Environmental Conservation has enforced the annual brush-burning ban to prevent wildfires and protect communities during heightened conditions for wildfires. When temperatures warm and the past fall’s debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread easily, further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation. Small backyard fire pits ad campfires less than three feet in height and four feet in length, width, or diameter are allowed, as are small cooking fires. People should never leave these fires unattended and must extinguish them. Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round in New York State.

 

The state Attorney General’s Office has issued its report on a fatal officer-involved shooting in Canandaigua. The report says officers were justified in killing 31-year-old Brandon Zurkan during an encounter back in February 2023. Police tried to stop Zurkan while he was driving erratically and firing gunshots before crashing his vehicle into a curb. He got out of the vehicle with a weapon and wouldn’t drop it, leading to the officers opening fire.

 

From Monroe County Executive Adam Bello is rolling out a new initiative aimed at cutting food waste in schools. It is called The Food Waste Diversion Pilot Program and it’ll provide grants to districts to help them start or expand programs that focus on food waste reduction.   This plan is also designed to teach students about the importance of conserving food. Data from the Rochester Institute of Technology shows 63 million tons of food is wasted each year in the United States.

 

A former Canisius student was sentenced this week to a one year conditional release after posting a threat against the school. Prosecutors say the student who is not being identified because of his age at the time of the crime, posted a threat against the school on Snapchat on August 22nd. He pleaded guilty back on January 7th to making a threat of mass harm. He’s also required to receive counseling and complete sixty hours of community service.

 

Well, the end of what sure felt like a very long winter is finally in sight. Spring officially begins one week from today, March 20^th. Buffalo’s snowfall totals so far this winter have been below average. That’s according to data from the National Weather Service, which reports Buffalo had around 74 inches of total snowfall since December. The average is 94 inches. In case you’re curious, Attica got slammed with a little over 168 inches (last year’s total was 97) and in Batavia, we had 40 inches; last year, and we got 2 inches less than that. By the way, it was 32 years ago today when the Storm of the Century hit. It took the form of a powerful cyclone that brought record-breaking snow, strong winds, severe weather and devastation across the entire East Coast. Rochester received more than 20 inches of snow, while Syracuse got more than 40 inches. Temperatures dropped into the single digits. Strong winds gusting around 70 mph caused power outages and homes along the lakeshore were covered in inches of ice. Multiple schools, businesses, roads and airports were shut down. Sadly, the storm took 270 people’s lives across 13 states. This storm remains one of the most well-documented and studied weather events in history, ranking in the top three historical March snowstorms.

 

The start of spring is just a week away, and the state Department of Environmental Conservation is offering safety tips to hikers. The DEC says people should keep an eye on the weather and stop their hikes if conditions worsen. It is also recommended hikers carry a backpack with essentials such as food, water and extra batteries in case they get lost or have an emergency. Also, they should never travel alone and let someone know where they’re going. For more information, visit dec.ny.gov.

 

The Buffalo Sabres came up short of picking up a second straight win after a disappointing loss on the road. Tage Thompson, Josh Norris and Zach Benson each had a goal, but their team still fell to the Detroit Red Wings by a final score of seven to three at Little Caesars Arena last night. Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen faced 29 shots in the contest and stopped 22 of them. Buffalo’s next game is Saturday when they host the Vegas Golden Knights. The puck drops at 12:30 (face-off is at 12:30)/

 

Wildfires and other weather extremes are making cancer care more complicated.   A new study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute showed that patients recovering from lung cancer surgeries within an active wildfire zone needed longer hospital stays than those in areas with no fires. The longer stays could be attributed to the reluctance of health care providers to discharge patients because of the environment, including housing or safety issues. The study’s authors emphasized that the results show that wildfires pose broad threats to health, beyond smoke exposure.

 

A New York woman is suing the Girl Scouts after claiming their cookies contain heavy metals. The class action suit filed this week is asking for $5 million from the organization after a study showed that Girl Scout Cookies contained lead, arsenic, mercury and aluminum. The Girl Scouts released a statement last month saying, “heavy metals can occur naturally in soil” and they are not added to the cookies. An article in Forbes later confirmed that the FDA and USDA both allow residues of metals in foods at levels deemed non-harmful, and said, “there is no evidence that the cookies pose a health risk.”

 

A total lunar eclipse is going to be visible early Friday morning. Experts say a full moon, called a Blood Moon, will make the moon appear red during a total lunar eclipse that’s going to peak at 2:55 a.m. eastern Friday morning. The entire eclipse will start late Thursday night, lasting roughly six hours. It will be visible from the Earth’s western hemisphere, with prime viewing conditions across North and South America. Spectators don’t need anything special to watch the eclipse, but experts warn light pollution and weather conditions can impact the view and binoculars could help.

 

New data shows the number of flu cases remains high across the Western New York region. During the week ending March 1st, the area with the highest infection tally was Monroe County with 974. That was followed by Erie County with 623, Niagara County had 236, Livingston County, 108, Genesee County and Wyoming County reported 98 and 57, respectively. Experts continue to say the best way to keep yourself and others protected is to practice good hygiene and get a flu shot. Additional information is available anytime at vaccines.gov.

 

The Lancaster Police Department is investigating a fatal car crash involving a 7-year-old child. According to police, officers responded to calls involving a car crash in the area of Broadway in the Town of Lancaster at 2:50 p.m. yesterday (Tuesday). Officers arrived on the scene and located a single car that had driven off the road and into a tree. A 7-year-old passenger was found and transported to a hospital where they died from their injuries, police said. The 29-year-old male driver has not been charged at this time and is cooperating with the investigation, according to police. Lancaster Police are continuing to investigate and say that if charges are applicable they will be determined based upon evidence found.  Identities of those involved are not yet being shared pending family notification.

 

The seven suspects arrested in connection with the death of a transgender man have returned to court. Yesterday, those individuals pleaded not guilty for their alleged roles in the murder of Sam Nordquist. Prosecutors claim Nordquist was tortured for more than a month before his body was dumped in Yates County. This case is not being treated as a hate crime and the suspects face life in prison if convicted.

 

The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance wants you to know that Direct File is now available to many individuals who receive Form 1099-R. That’s the form that identifies distributions from pensions, annuities, retirement, and Individual Retirement Accounts. Direct File is free for New York State taxpayers with basic returns. Here’s detailed information: https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/ads/efile_addit1099r-2d.htm

 

The state Department of Motor Vehicles is calling on New Yorkers to check for safety recalls that could affect their vehicle. The agency says one in five registered vehicles in the Empire State has an open, unfixed recall that might put motorists at risk. That total includes thousands of vehicles equipped with Takata airbags that have caused the deaths of dozens of people nationwide. A full list of recalls can be found online at dmv.ny.gov.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul is calling for New York Schools to be phone free.   Yesterday Hochul and Common Sense Media held a youth roundtable in Albany to discuss the benefits of removing smartphones from schools. Hochul and Common Sense Media both support proposed legislation that would label mental health risks on social media, limit stranger interaction with kids online, and limit addictive social media design features.   Hochul says she’s going to continue to fight for this legislation and wants to see a “bell-to-bell distraction free environment” in schools.

 

A hiker is recovering after being rescued on the Eternal Flame Trail in Orchard Parks’ Chestnut Ridge Park. Police say a 62-year-old woman was injured after falling on the trail yesterday afternoon and EMS crews had to extricate her from the trail by using a low-angle rope system. She was taken to an area hospital for a broken pelvis.

 

An Olean man is facing up to twenty years in prison in a child pornography case. Yesterday 48-year-old Greg Hirliman pleaded guilty to attempted receipt of child pornography in federal court. Prosecutors say between September of 2021 and July of 2022, Hirliman engaged in sexual communications through Facebook with a minor victim. He also made several requests for naked images from the victim according to prosecutors. Hirliman is scheduled to be sentenced on July 21st.

 

After snapping their six-game losing streak, the Buffalo Sabres will be in the Motor City tonight as they try and earn a second straight victory. The Sabres are set to battle the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesar Arena. The Sabres last played Monday when they defeated the Edmonton Oilers by a final score of 3-2, which boosted their point total this season to 56. Face-off this evening is scheduled for 7:30 and the game airs nationally on TNT.

 

The Buffalo Bills have re-signed running back Ty Johnson. The two-year deal will pay Johnson $5 million. He has been with the team for the past two seasons, and last season, Johnson ran for a touchdown and caught three more.

 

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Junior is speaking out about the measles outbreak in Texas, suggesting that Vitamin-A can “dramatically” reduce deaths. Doctors are afraid that some parents might take this as meaning the supplement is the same as the vaccine.   Dr. Sapna Singh at Texas Children’s Hospital says there is not a single study that suggests vitamins can prevent infections. There are nearly 200-measles cases in Texas. The epicenter remains a section of West Texas that has the lowest vaccination rates in the state.

 

The Rochester International Jazz Festival is coming up this summer, and the event’s full lineup has been released. The festival runs from June 20th through 28th and is going to feature over 17-hundred artists from nine countries. A total of 285 shows will take place at 18 venues and headliners include Smokey Robinson, Thundercat and The Wood Brothers. For more information, head to rochesterjazz.com.

 

Hampton Inn is looking to hire in Buffalo. Hampton Inn Buffalo-Amherst will hold a job fair tomorrow, Thursday, march 13th, from 12 pm to 3 pm. Both full and part-time opportunities are available.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul is mapping out the future for New York State’s correctional system. It comes after the state and union representing thousands of prison guards came to an agreement, ending an unauthorized 22-day strike. The governor says even though more than ten thousand employees are back on the job, more than six-thousand National Guard members remain deployed at correctional facilities across the state. She says about 2,000 termination notices are going out to employees who didn’t show up for their shifts on Monday after she signed an executive order that prevents those who continue to participate in the strike from being hired by other law enforcement agencies. Hochul says she’s now focusing on recruiting more corrections officers to support current staff.

 

36-year-old Charles Stevens and 37-year-old Eric Flowers, both of Batavia, were arrested for criminal mischief. They were charged after an investigation into an incident, where they allegedly intentionally damaged another person’s vehicle. Both Stevens and Flowers were issued appearance tickets and released.

 

A Rochester man is in some serious trouble with the law after being accused of having hundreds of images of child pornography. An investigation began after Google notified the National Center For Missing and Exploited Children that Daniel Walsh’s account uploaded disturbing images last November. A search warrant was executed at his home and officers found those images. Walsh has been arraigned and released and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.

 

A University of Rochester Medical Center study is sounding the alarm about the long-term risks of e-cigarette use. Data shows that e-cigarettes and vapes aren’t a safer alternative to traditional tobacco products and could lead to serious health problems. However, it is still unknown if e-cigarette use can cause cancer. The study also says a key factor in the rise of teen vaping in recent years is peer pressure.

 

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office says it has taken three suspects in connection to a burglary at an East Rochester car dealership. They were called overnight to the Van Bortel Ford dealership on Marsh Road for a burglary in progress. Deputies say the three were taken into custody after a brief investigation. They did not report on any damage or on any stolen items.

 

82-year-old John Douglas Looney of Rochester has pleaded guilty to transportation of obscene material in interstate commerce. Looney was previously convicted on a federal charge of possession of child pornography. Now he faces prison time for using the internet and interactive computer service to receive and distribute images and videos of child pornography. In total, Looney possessed more than 1,000,000 images of child pornography. Sentencing is scheduled for July 10; Looney faces up to five years in prison and a fine of $250,000.

 

Five people are lucky to avoid being seriously hurt after falling through ice in Greece. Authorities say the incident happened yesterday at Braddock Bay. The Coast Guard was called in to help out with the rescue and all five individuals needed treatment for minor injuries. Officials say this should serve as a warning to everyone about the dangers of ice as temperatures continue to rise.

 

A former USPS worker in West Seneca is facing five years in prison for stealing mail. 37-year-old Christopher Porter pleaded guilty to mail theft yesterday in federal court. Prosecutors say Porter rifled through mail and stole an envelope containing a Wegmans gift card and a Target gift card in 2021. He then admitted to giving those gift cards to his wife. Porter is scheduled to be sentenced on July 18th.

 

Saint Patrick’s Day is under a week away, and police statewide will be doing their part to keep people safe before and after their celebrations. Law enforcement are cracking down on drivers who get behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol through March 17th. During last year’s Saint Patrick’s Day enforcement campaign, there were 935 motorists arrested for DWI and nearly 25-thousand traffic tickets issued. Anyone who sees dangerous activity on the roads should dial 911 immediately.

 

The union representing employees at Mercy Hospital of Buffalo are demanding action after a patient shot himself in the emergency room on Sunday night.   Yesterday, leaders with Communications Workers of America Local 1133 held a press conference calling for increased safety protocols to protect healthcare workers, patients, and visitors. This incident happened amid negotiations between the union and Catholic Health.

 

The six-game losing streak of the Buffalo Sabres is over after the team holds on to beat one of the top squads in the NHL. Tage Thompson scored twice and Alex Tuch had a goal as the Sabres beat the Edmonton Oilers by a final score of three to two at KeyBank Center last night.   Buffalo’s goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen faced 33 shots in the contest and stopped 31 of them. The next game for the Sabres is tomorrow against the Detroit Red Wings.

 

Thursday evening, March 20^th from 6:30 to 8:00, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy music performed by Bart Dentino. The Batavia First Presbyterian Church, 300 East Main Street, Batavia is hosting the event, which is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome and appreciated, with all proceeds benefiting and supporting the Genesee Wyoming County Warming Center, during the cold, winter nights.

 

Free at home COVID tests from the government are going away. The U.S. government program that orders them is no longer accepting orders according to its website. Officials gave no reason for the change in policy. Tests ordered before March 9th will still be shipped. Some local pharmacies may still offer the tests, and some health insurance companies may reimburse folks who buy the tests in pharmacies and stores.

 

29-year-old Brandi Hough of Batavia has been arrested by the Genesee County Sheriffs. She’s charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance. Following an investigation after a probation home visit, it’s alleged Hough possessed methamphetamine. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due back to the Town of Batavia Court on March 20^th.

 

A three-week wildcat strike by corrections officers at New York State prisons may be over. The Department of Corrections announced over the weekend that a new agreement was reached with the union representing employees. The terms require that 85% of the striking workers to return to work today in order for the agreement to take effect.

 

State Attorney General Letitia James has an update on the findings from an investigation into the death of Daevon Roberts, who died last July following an encounter with members of the Buffalo Police Department in Buffalo. The investigation concluded that a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officer’s use of deadly physical force was justified under the law. A final investigation report will follow at a later date.

 

A Dansville native who was held captive for nearly 900 days by the Taliban makes a return to the region. Ryan Corbett was welcomed home by community members over the weekend after spending more than two years in Afghanistan. Corbett shared stories of his captivity after he ended up being wrongfully detained while visiting the Middle East for business in August 2022.   He was released by the group earlier this year as part of a prison exchange between the United States and Taliban.

 

An investigation is underway into what caused a fight at Blue Cross Arena in Rochester. The brawl happened Saturday night following a sectional high school basketball game that was taking place there. Video shared on social media showed a group of between 10 and 12 people involved in the incident and they were all escorted out of the arena. There were also fights reported outside the venue but no one was hurt.

 

A former Wyoming County correction officer has been sentenced to over eight years in prison for a child pornography charge, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said Friday. 40-year-old James Sutton of Depew was sentenced to 100 months in prison, which works out to a little over eight years. Prosecutors said Sutton used his cell phone to upload nearly two dozen video files containing child pornography from the internet to the social media platform Kik. The videos included minors under the age of 12, and depictions of violence. The uploads happened in October 2021. Sutton worked at the Wyoming Correctional Facility, a state prison in Wyoming County. He was convicted of distribution of child pornography. Upon release, he will be subject to 30 years of post-release supervision.

 

A man is facing charges in connection with a double homicide in Buffalo’s Allentown neighborhood. Thirty-four-year-old Bryan Chiclana is charged with first-degree murder and second-degree murder in the deaths of 40-year-old Michael Harmon and 37-year-old Jorden Celotto. Both men were found dead in a home along St. Louis Place last Tuesday. An autopsy shows they died of blunt force trauma. Chiclana is being held without bond.

 

A Canandaigua man faces charges after allegedly assaulting a five-week-old child. Troopers on March 1 received a report from Ontario County Child Protective Services regarding an injured infant at Strong Memorial Hospital, where hospital staff found the infant had significant bruising. An investigation found that 25-year-old Jayden Q. Mendez, Sr. of Canandaigua had allegedly assaulted the infant. Mendez, Sr. was arrested and taken to Ontario County Cap Jail, where he is facing endangering the welfare of a child and assault charges.

 

Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara has introduced a bill aimed at addressing the current air traffic controller shortage. Some of New York’s key air traffic control facilities are operating with nearly 40% of positions unfilled, meaning controllers have to work extended shifts and mandatory overtime. Santabarbara’s measure is calling for signing bonuses for new controllers, retention bonuses for controllers who stay in the state and relocation assistance.   The bill is now in committee for consideration.

 

This summer Cyndi Lauper will be coming to Darien Lake on her final leg of her ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell Tour’.  Lauper will be at Darien Lake Amphitheater, Tuesday, July 15. Tickets will be available beginning on tomorrow at 10 a.m. for presale and this Friday, March 14 at 10 a.m. for general sale. Along with her popular song Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. Lauper is also known for songs such as Time After Time, True Colors, All Through the Night, and more.

 

The Buffalo Bills will have their star quarterback under center for at least the next few seasons. The defending AFC East champions have reached a six-year contract extension with league MVP Josh Allen that’s worth $330 million, including a record $250 million guaranteed. Allen played a role in 41 touchdowns last season and had a career-low eight turnovers.   Allen’s previous annual contract value was $43 million per season, which was 14th among quarterbacks.

 

The Buffalo Sabres are looking to avoid a seventh straight loss tonight, but in their way is one of the top teams in the NHL. The Sabres are hosting Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers at KeyBank Center. Buffalo last played on Saturday when the Florida Panthers defeated them by a final score of 4 to 0. Face-off for their contest this evening is set for 7:00.

 

A new national poll shows more than one-in-three parents say their child has had dental problems in the last two years. The C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health found poor hygiene habits were mostly to blame, mainly in kids who didn’t follow recommended brushing, flossing and rinsing practices.   Researchers polled 1,800 parents with children aged 4 to 17 and found that 64% of parents say their child brushes twice daily and 60% say they brush for at least two minutes. A majority of parents said their child last saw a dentist within the past year, but over 10% said it’s been longer than that. The American Dental Association recommends children have a check-up every six months for early detection of tooth decay and learn about how to protect their teeth.

 

A new study from the University of California, San Francisco found a link between screen time and manic behavior in pre-teens. The study specifically looked at thousands of ten and eleven year olds who used smart phones. They found that the children who spend more time on screens were more likely to have manic episodes. The study’s co-author says their findings “underscore the importance of cultivating healthy screen use habits early.”

 

A federal judge is siding with the state of Missouri in a $24 billion judgment against the Chinese Communist Party for hoarding protective gear during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lawsuit, filed in 2020, accused China of worsening the pandemic by hindering the production, purchase and import of personal protective equipment. The state says it spent millions more or PPE that it otherwise would have and lost billions in tax revenue.   China didn’t show up in court and Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey says the state plans to collect what they can by seizing Chinese-owned assets, including farmland. The decision was handed down Friday.

 

State Attorney General Letitia James has joined with the Social Security Administration by warning consumers to stay vigilant against Social Security-related scams. Social Security recipients are particularly vulnerable to frauds and scams, and bad actors use a variety of tactics to deceive victims into providing sensitive information, like Social Security and bank account numbers. If you believe you have been a victim of a scam, call the AG’s office at 800-771-7755.  Here is a comprehensive list of common tactics scammers use, as well as tips to protect yourself from fraud:

Common tactics scammers targeting Social Security recipients use include:

• Posing as SSA officials;
  • They may claim that your Social Security number has been suspended due to suspicious activity or that you must confirm personal details (Social Security number, bank account, or birthdate) to avoid arrest or benefits loss.
  • They may also claim that youneed to pay a fee via a wire transfer, prepaid gift card, or cryptocurrency.
• Promising a prize;
  • They may claim that you have won a foreign lottery, random drawing, or “millionth customer” prize but require you to pay upfront fees or taxes or provide banking details.
• Pretending to be a distressed relative and urgently asking for money to get out of trouble or cover hospital bills; and
• Pressuring you to act immediately or pay in a specific way.

The OAG offers the following tips to protect yourself from fraudulent individuals and organizations:

• Verify unexpected requests. If a “relative” asks for money, call them back using a known number.
• Do not always trust that a phone number with a caller ID is reputable. Scammers will spoof numbers to appear local or official.
• Be cautious with wire transfers and gift cards. Scammers prefer these because they are hard to trace. The IRS and SSA do not accept gift cards. Beware of anyone asking you to pay a government agency using gift cards.
• Typically, the SSA does not make phone calls. Beware of callers claiming to be from the SSA.
• If you suspect fraudulent activity, immediately hang up, do not respond, and do not provide any personal information.
• Report any suspected scams immediately. To report a scam, file an online complaint with OAG’s Bureau of Consumer Frauds

 

State Attorney General Letitia James, along with a coalition of seven other attorneys general, have filed a lawsuit against the United States Department of Education for unlawfully canceling teacher pipeline grant programs that were authorized by Congress. The Teacher Quality Partnership and Supporting Effective Educator Development grant programs support K-12 teacher development efforts, improve student achievement, and help create a new teacher pipeline to fill positions in hard-to-staff schools in rural and urban areas. The coalition is seeking a temporary restraining order to urgently restore funding and access to these programs.

 

A Cheektowaga man has been arraigned on an indictment charging him with second-degree murder after allegedly shooting and killing a man during a parking dispute last October. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office said Richard J. Walls is accused of shooting Md Rawnaq Hassan Ratin in the chest. Walls is being held without bail and faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in prison if convicted.

 

32-year-old Alexander Grupp of Lancaster has pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography. This stems from an incident in March 2018 when Grupp communicated with a 15-year-old girl using the instant messaging application, Discord. During these communications, Grupp persuaded the victim to send him nude pictures of herself. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date; Grupp faces at least 15 years in prison.

 

Daylight saving time begins Sunday, and the Firefighters Association of the State of New York says the clock change should serve as a reminder for people to test the batteries in their smoke alarms. Experts say doing so can help prevent a tragedy in your home if there is a fire. It’s also recommended that everyone practice their fire escape plan to make sure they know a way out of their residence in case of an emergency. For more life-saving tips, go to fasny.com.

 

Buffalo’s Allentown community continues to mourn the loss of two beloved artists. Mickey Harmon and his partner Jordan Celotto were found dead from blunt force trauma Tuesday in their apartment on St. Louis Place. Tributes have been planned around the city in remembrance, including at the Stonewall mural on Allen Street, which Harmon helped create.

 

Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick has been named special prosecutor in the investigation into an inmate’s death at Mid-State Correctional Facility. Messiah Nantwi died on Saturday after being rushed to a hospital from the Oneida County prison, and Governor Hochul said there are indications disturbing conduct led to his death. The state AG’s office is recusing itself because it’s representing some of the corrections officers involved in Nantwi’s death in civil lawsuits. 15 prison employees are now on leave.

 

State Attorney General Letitia James has organized a settlement with Saturn Technologies, a developer of an app called Saturn used by high school students. The company failed to protect young users’ privacy. The app allows students to create a personal calendar, message other members, share social media accounts, join groups, and know where other uses are based on their calendars. Saturn Technologies claimed the app only allowed users from the same high school to interact with each other. However, an investigation found that the company failed to verify users’ school email and age to ensure safety. As a result of the settlement, Saturn Technologies must pay $650,000 in penalties to the state and significantly change its practices to protect users.

 

Gas prices more or less continue to hold steady. Triple A reports today the average price for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.11. The state average is at $3.15. In Batavia, the average figures out to $3.14 per gallon; that’s a penny less than it was a week ago; four cents lower than a month ago; and 11 cents cheaper than it was a year ago today.

 

The Sabres woes continue as they lost 6-5 to the Tampa Bay Lighting last night.   Buffalo held a 5-3 lead near the midway point of the second period, but it was quickly surrendered after three unanswered Tampa Bay goals. The loss is now the fifth in a row for the Sabres, who will look to get back in the win column on Saturday against the Florida Panthers.

 

Casting Buffalo is calling for actors of all backgrounds to join the cast of Hallmark’s “Newport Christmas.” Actors ages 18 and up of all genders and ethnicities can play a variety of background roles, including Christmas formal guests, violin busker, Santa Clauses, and more. Featured roles include a handsome, gilded bachelor, and a 6-8 year old child. Filming will take place in Buffalo and Youngstown between March 17 and April 3. Non-union affiliated extras will earn $192 a day while union affiliated extras will earn $216 a day. Personal information, including a resume and headshot, can be submitted by emailing submissions@castingbuffalo.com.

 

With the May 7 federal REAL ID deadline just two months away, the Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging residents to visit a DMV office to get a REAL ID or ENHANCED ID as soon as possible, even if your license is not due for renewal. Starting May 7, everyone flying in the United States or visiting a secure federal facility will need REAL or ENHANCED ID, passport or another form of federally compliant identification. Detailed information is available here:  https://dmv.ny.gov/driver-license/enhanced-or-real-id

 

Next Thursday evening, March 20^th from 6:30 to 8:00, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy music performed by Bart Dentino. The Batavia First Presbyterian Church, 300 East Main Street, Batavia is hosting the event, which is free and open to the public. Donations are welcome and appreciated, with all proceeds benefiting and supporting the Genesee Wyoming County Warming Center, during the cold, winter nights.

 

The finalists have now been chosen ahead of this year’s 2025 World Video Game Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The field of nominees includes classics like Frogger, Goldeneye 007 and Tamagotchi as well as newer games such as Angry Birds and Call of Duty Four: Modern Warfare. Each game is judged on criteria like having an extended influence on the video game industry or popular culture in general. This year’s ceremony takes place at World Video Game Hall of Fame in Rochester.

 

A new report says rising egg prices are soaring because companies are price-gouging customers. According to data from the United States Department of Agriculture, egg prices nearly doubled in the last six weeks. A dozen costs on average about eight-dollars. The rise in prices has largely been blamed on the Bird Flu. However, the watchdog report from Food And Water Watch says that bird flu has “slightly reduced” egg production, but “corporate greed has also played a major role.”

 

 

State Attorney General Letitia James, along with 14 other attorneys general, have issued guidance to K-12 schools, colleges and universities, outlining the benefits, legality and importance of common diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) policies and practices in education. This is in response to concerns expressed by some educational institutions following an executive order and a United States Department of Education letter threatening schools that continue to uphold the DEIA policies. Attorney General James and the coalition noted that these type changes could not be rendered by an executive order or letter from the DOE. The attorneys general also encouraged K-12 schools to strive for a school climate where all students feel safe, supported, respected and ready to learn. ALSO: Attorney General Letitia James, in conjunction with 22 other attorneys general, have won a preliminary injunction against the Trump administration to block its policy that would freeze funding for essential agency grants, loans, and other financial assistance programs. The administration’s funding freeze policy, withheld trillions of dollars in federal funds for states and other entities like nonprofit organizations and community health centers. The policy had created uncertainty for millions of Americans who rely on state programs that receive federal funds, including Medicaid.

 

A statewide strike of corrections officers remains underway. Those on the picket lines are calling for better and safer working conditions- despite threats to lose their jobs, lose their health insurance, or be arrested for participating in the unauthorized strike.   Governor Hochul has called on the corrections officers to get back to work.

 

A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging 39-year-old Jason Goodsell, formerly of Wellsville, with seven counts of production of child pornography and one count of distribution. The charges carry a minimum of 15 years in prison. According to the indictment, Goodsell coerced a minor victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of visual production of the conduct. He then distributed the images that he produced.

 

A flood watch remains in effect for Western New York until late this afternoon.   Creeks across the region that are still prone to ice jam flooding include the Cazenovia, Ellicott, Tonawanda and Cattaraugus, though the Buffalo River has also proven susceptible to flooding.   More rain and snowmelt are adding to the potential for flooding today.

 

A Buffalo man is sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for the killings of two people during a fight last year. James White Jr. pleaded guilty to first and second-degree murder in January as his trial was about to begin. Prosecutors say White shot and killed John Gibson and David Honer on the porch of a home on East Utica Street in January of 2024. Three men who went to the scene with White were previously convicted of gang assault.

 

Buffalo Police are investigating the deaths of two noted local artists who were found dead in their home this week. Police say artists and LGBTQ-plus activists Mickey Harmon and his partner Jordan Celotto died from blunt force trauma Tuesday in their apartment on St. Louis Place. A friend called police after one of the victims failed to show up for work. Police took into custody a person of interest when they arrived at the scene. Police say they do not believe it was a hate crime or that the couple knew the person of interest.

 

The Buffalo Sabres have signed Jordan Greenway to a two-year, eight-million-dollar contract extension. Greenway would have become a free agent this summer before the agreement was reached.   The 28-year-old forward missed much of this season, but has been playing well since returning from injury.   Greenway is in his third season with Buffalo after playing for Minnesota from 2017 until 2023.

 

Bart Dentino will be on hand at Batavia First Presbyterian, 300 East Main Street, Batavia, on Thursday evening, March 20^th, from 6:30 to 8:00 to perform a selection of music that includes original compositions, and songs from James Taylor, Gordon Lightfoot, The Beatles and others. The event is free and open to the public; however, donations are welcome and appreciated. All proceeds benefit and support the Genesee Wyoming County Warming Center, during the cold, winter nights.

 

People who have surgery on a Friday face a greater risk of death and complications, a new study reveals. A team at Houston Methodist Hospital looked at 25 common procedures and found that the risks went up compared to people who were treated earlier in the week. It’s called the “weekend effect,” and could reflect that hospitals tend to operate with fewer people on Saturdays and Sundays. The risk of death for Friday surgeries went up by as much as 12%. The study was published this week in JAMA Network Open.

 

A flood watch in addition to a wind advisory remains in effect for all eight counties in Western New York. A rapid warm-up this week will lead to a fast melt of the area’s snow pack and increase the risk for flooding.   City of Buffalo crews have been preparing for the possibility of ice jams, which are more likely to form in a body of water’s S-curves, in the Buffalo River and Cazenovia Creek. At this time, there are no threats of flooding near the Tonawanda Creek in Batavia. To monitor this yourself, go to water.noaa.gov.

 

51-year-old Matthew Fisher of South Wales, New York, has pleaded guilty to production of child pornography. Between June 2022 and November 2023, Fisher was employed as the Associate Director of Enrollment and Management at the Gow School, a private boarding school in South Wales. He resided on the school campus and utilized hidden cameras to create and attempt to create videos of at least five minor males engaged in sexually explicit conduct. During the investigation, several of Fisher’s electronic devices were seized and found to contain the videos. Fisher will be sentenced at a later date, when he faces 15 to 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

 

 

As the strike by state corrections officers enters its 17th day, striking officers face jail time. Officers at Groveland Correctional Center as well as Attica and Wende correctional facilities remain on picket lines despite an agreement hammered out between the state and the union that represents the officers. The New York Attorney General’s office filed court papers Monday to punish striking officers with hundreds of dollars in fines and even imprisonment.   Yesterday, state officials met with representatives of striking officers outside the New York State Capitol in Albany.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul convened a roundtable in Albany on Tuesday with agricultural leaders in the state. She said the tariffs are projected to increase costs by as much as $1,200 a year for the average New Yorker, while hurting many businesses that send products to China, Mexico and Canada. Hochul encourages businesses, including New York’s farms, to report the effects of these tariffs on their work to TariffImpact@esd.ny.gov. Hochul said agriculture is a cornerstone of New York’s economy. The state’s investments in agricultural priorities are up 60 percent since 2022, she said.

 

A Buffalo man has been found guilty of assault; this, following a shooting that left a victim seriously injured, according to the Erie County District Attorney’s Office. 41-year-old Irving Mitchell, also known as Gotti, was on parole at the time when he shot a 31-year-old man last July 4^th. The victim was taken to ECMC where he underwent multiple surgeries for serious injuries to his abdomen. He was in the hospital for almost two weeks. Mitchell faces multiple charges, including attempted murder. He’ll be sentenced as a second violent felony offender. Mitchell faces a maximum of 25 years in prison when he is sentenced next month.

 

Fifteen people are on leave after the death of a 22-year-old inmate at Mid-State Correctional Facility. Governor Hochul announced the 15 would be put on leave on Tuesday. On Monday, 11 others were placed on leave. This comes as the death of Messiah Nantwi remains under investigation.

 

The New York State United Teachers Union is speaking out against President Trump’s proposed cuts to the U.S. Department of Education. Members of the group rallied in Albany on Tuesday. They expressed concern over the Department of Education being dismantled, and how that would impact funding for school programs.

 

New York State Police are asking the public for help when they run a test of the Amber Alert system in western New York tomorrow morning at 10:00. They’re asking residents to click on the link on the state’s Amber Alert website to let them know the system is working properly.   The test will be sent to mobile phones and to television and radio stations through the Emergency Alert system.

 

The Sabres’ losing streak reached four last night as they fell to the lowly San Jose Sharks — 6-to-2 — at KeyBank Center. Coach Lindy Ruff said too many players took the night off that resulted in puck play he dubbed pathetic. Buffalo starts a two-game road trip tomorrow in Florida just ahead of the NHL trade deadline.

 

Pro wrestling star Hulk Hogan dropped by several Rochester bars and liquor stores yesterday to promote the release of his beer — called Real American Beer. He also held a meet-and-greet at Beers of the World on East Henrietta Road, where an estimated 250 fans turned out to meet Hogan.

 

 

50-year-old Colleen Hutchinson of Batavia has been arrested by the Genesee County Sheriffs. She’s charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, operating a motor vehicle without stop lamp and having an uninspected motor vehicle. The arrest followed a traffic stop, during which it’s alleged Hutchinson was in possession of crack cocaine and narcotic equipment used to smoke the crack cocaine. She was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court on March 19^th. ALSO: 44-year-old Clint Towne of Batavia has been arrested and charged with criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a large capacity ammunition-feeding device. The possession of both is alleged following Towne’s arrest on his property for a separate incident. He was released back into the custody of the Genesee County Jail. Towne was scheduled for Genesee County CAP Court.

 

A flood watch has been issued for all eight counties in Western New York.   A rapid warm-up this week will lead to a fast melt of the area’s snow pack and increase the risk for flooding. A half-inch of rain may result in flooding of rivers and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. The most prone areas for flooding will be where ice jams typically develop. The greatest risk for flooding will be later tonight through tomorrow, with the risk of river based flooding coming mainly Wednesday night and Thursday.

 

The New York State Department of Corrections & Community Supervision is terminating health insurance for striking corrections officers. The first termination of health insurance started Monday. Officials say anyone who remains on strike will have their insurance and their dependent’s healthcare removed- and would not be eligible for COBRA. The strike went on for ten days before a tentative agreement was reached- but some workers were not happy with the deal and remained on the picket line.

 

University of Rochester Police will start wearing body cameras and will carry tasers to help increase campus public safety policies. Officers will start using the technology after comprehensive training and certification. Officials say the officers will be required to activate their body cameras during any law enforcement action or interaction with the public.

 

New York State Police are asking the public for help when they run a test of the Amber Alert system in western New York on Thursday at 10:00am. They’re asking residents to click on the link on the state’s Amber Alert website to let them know the system is working properly.   The test will be sent to mobile phones and to television and radio stations through the Emergency Alert system.

 

A Buffalo man has been arraigned on an aggravated animal cruelty charge after allegedly killing a puppy last month. Authorities say 48-year-old Timothy D. Brown intentionally hit a male pug puppy multiple times while at a residence on Shields Avenue. The victim called 9-1-1 after finding the dog dead inside the residence; Brown is scheduled to return for a felony hearing on March 20th. He faces up to two years in jail if convicted.

 

Despite a valiant comeback, the Sabres couldn’t edge out Montreal and lost 4-3 in overtime. Alex Tuch and Tage Thompson scored the first two goals for Buffalo to ignite their comeback. Rasmus Dahlin added a goal of his own in the late stages of the third period to tie the game and force overtime. The Sabres couldn’t keep the momentum going however, and lost after a goal by Montreal’s Mike Matheson.   Buffalo returns home to host the San Jose Sharks tonight; the puck drops at 7:00.

 

Later sunsets will begin this weekend. Residents are reminded they should set their clocks ahead one hour at 2:00am Sunday. This marks the start of Daylight Saving Time but also brings more daylight with it.   The sun is expected to rise before 7:30 a.m. on Sunday and set just after 7:00 p.m.

 

Governor Hochul is proclaiming this month as Problem Gambling Awareness Month.   Fourteen landmarks across the state were lit up in yellow on Monday to acknowledge the month. The awareness month aims to support those with gambling-related challenges and raise awareness about the harm gambling can cause.   Those who need help can visit NYProblemGamblingHelp.org.

 

 

State corrections officials say New York corrections officers who have missed eleven consecutive shifts are being served notices of termination. Many officers, including those at Groveland Correctional Center as well as Attica and Wende correctional facilities remained on picket lines across the state despite an agreement hammered out between the state and the union that represents the officers. The settlement reached late last week with the help of a mediator addressed many of the guards’ concerns including dangerous conditions, staffing shortages and forced overtime. Striking officers say the agreement does not go far enough to ensure long-term safety and better work conditions.

 

The City of Batavia Police and the City of Batavia Fire departments have taken to the ice. It happened yesterday to raise money for the David McCarthy Memorial Foundation. This was the third annual ‘Battle of the Badges’ in Batavia, with City Police 2-0 in the event. Last year’s competition raised nearly $3,000 for the David McCarthy Memorial Foundation. The charity was formed to honor the memory of David McCarthy, a local athlete who died in a car accident in 2006.  The organization raises money to provide financial support for youth athletics in the Genesee County area. City Police are no longer undefeated in this event; firefighters won yesterday’s game with a final score of 6-3.

 

A 66-year-old high school teacher in the Victor Central School District has now been charged with rape following an investigation (investigation was completed by the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office, Ontario County District Attorney’s Office, and Ontario County Child Protective Services). Authorities allege that David Porter engaged in sexual intercourse with a person under the age of 17 during December 2024. Porter was arraigned in Ontario County CAP Court on Saturday and released on his own recognizance. While the victim is a student, they are not currently enrolled in any of Porter’s classes. Upon learning of the investigation, Victor Central Schools placed Porter on immediate leave and sought the interim suspension of his teaching certificate. The district is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation. There is no evidence suggesting the incident occurred on school property. An order of protection has been issued on behalf of the victim. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 4 in Victor Town Court.

 

The city of Buffalo helped pay tribute to fallen Buffalo firefighter Jason Arno with a remembrance ceremony on Saturday. Loved ones, colleagues and city leaders all gathered to honor Arno, who lost his life two-years ago while battling a four-alarm structure fire on Main Street. Buffalo Fire Commissioner William Renaldo expressed gratitude to Arno’s family for their strength and courage throughout this two-year ordeal, as well as to the Buffalo firefighters for everything they do each day.

 

And some good news to report: Anneka Pray, the 18-year-old Pembroke graduate who was critically injured a week ago in a motor vehicle accident near Syracuse, is said to be making “amazing progress,” according to Tracy Rudolph, the organizer of a GoFundMe page to assist the family. Pray, who has been blind since birth, sustained a traumatic brain injury. Pray was heavily sedated and minimally responsive shortly after the accident. As of last Friday, she has been moved out of the ICU to a bed on the pediatric floor. Anneka is eating, drinking, talking and walking and will be transferred to neurology rehab next week.

 

Over 200,000 state residents are now enrolled in New York Mobile ID. The digital version of a state-issued ID was announced by the DMV in June. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the enrollment milestone over the weekend.   Anyone still interested in getting a New York Mobile ID can download the app on iPhones or Android phones.

 

The Sabres look to bounce back tonight when they take on the Canadiens in Montreal. The Sabres fell to the Canadiens 4-to-2 Saturday night at the KeyBank Center, their first home loss in seven games. They have yet to beat their Atlantic Division foe this season.

 

Athletes covet smelling salts but scientist may have found something even better.   Researchers at Mass General Brigham studied the effects of an antibody based nasal spray on brain-injured mice. The spray seemed to improve the brain’s natural healing process while simultaneously reducing damaging inflammation.   The findings could lead to a preventive treatment against the long-tern implications of traumatic brain injuries and other conditions like stroke.   According to the CDC, more than 200,000 Americans were hospitalized in 2023 for a traumatic brain injury while almost 70,000 died from them.

 

On March 3, 2021: Dolly Parton received the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, which she gave $1 million to help develop.

 

 

25-year-old Rashad Cordell of Rochester has been arrested by the Sheriffs in Batavia and is charged with criminal possession of stolen property and aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle. It’s alleged that Cordell was in possession of a stolen vehicle. He’s being held at the Genesee County Jail pending arraignment. ALSO: 56-year-old Robert Leiser of Alabama was arrested by Genesee County Sheriffs for hindering prosecution. It’s alleged Leiser allowed Marc Cook, Sr. to live on his property, knowing he had active felony warrants. Leiser was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to return to Batavia Town Court on March 18^th. ALSO: 54-year-old Dana Powers of Batavia has been arrested and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, as well as aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and operating a motor vehicle without stop lamps. Sheriffs stopped Powers’ vehicle on Ellicott Street for a traffic violation. Following investigation, it’s alleged Powers possessed a controlled substance. Powers was released with an appearance ticket to return to the City of Batavia Court on March 18^th pursuant to his charges.

 

A Mexican national convicted of rape was recently arrested from Clinton Correctional Facility. He was immediately detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel and is being held at Batavia before he’s possibly deported. ICE said 44-year-old Alejandro Salazar was released from prison on February 21^st. He had been convicted of first-degree rape on November 14, 2012, and was sentenced him to 15 years in prison.  Federal officials said Salazar illegally entered the United States in January of 1995. Salazar is being held at Buffalo Federal Detention Facility in Batavia and is “awaiting a removal flight,” ICE said.

 

 

45-year-old Michael Grimm of Spencerport, who was convicted of wire fraud, has been sentenced to serve 60 months in prison and pay approximately $16,000 in restitution. Grimm, along with co-defendant Nickola Ferra, engaged in an extensive pattern of conduct involving document fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud, retail theft and identity theft. Part of the fraud was to obtain merchandise by theft or fraud from local retailers, which was then returned in exchange for gift cards and store credit, or sold to third parties. Ferra was previously convicted and sentenced to serve 27 months in prison.

 

The former chief of the Marbletown Fire Department in Wayne County is accused of stealing from the organization. Authorities announced Friday that William Storrs, a former fire chief and treasurer, was arrested after stealing $101,000 from the department, which serves the town of Arcadia. Investigators from the Office of the New York State Comptroller launched a joint investigation with New York State Police last year to look into allegations of theft. Those included hundreds of personal purchases at businesses, restaurants and other venues, as well as a down payment on a vehicle. Authorities said the theft was discovered when a member of the fire department tried to make a purchase with the department’s credit card, but it was declined due to a lack of funds. Storrs was replaced as chief and suspended from the department when the allegations came to light. “William Storrs was elected fire chief after serving as treasurer, and took advantage of these positions to mislead and betray his department and community,” DiNapoli said in a statement. “Storrs allegedly stole funds meant to support the department and used them for his own personal needs.” The 36-year-old Storrs is charged with grand larceny. He was booked in the Wayne County Jail on Thursday and released with an appearance ticket.

 

There may be a path out of the ongoing wildcat strikes by prison guards across New York State. Late Thursday, the mediator brought in to handle the dispute between prison guards and the state issued a consent award, essentially ending negotiations that includes some of the concessions the guards were seeking. But there may be a snag. Since the strike was not authorized by the union representing the guards, the guards may have to individually accept the deal in order to return to work.   Governor Hochul released a statement praising the consent award.

 

 

Memorial services will begin in Virginia Beach today for a police officer and Gates Chili High School graduate killed in the line duty. Cameron Girvin was working last Friday when he and a fellow officer were shot and killed during a traffic stop. The officers were involved in a dispute with the person they pulled over, 42-year-old John McCoy the third, before he allegedly shot them. McCoy then ran to a nearby shed and took his own life. Girvin served the Virginia Beach Police Department for five years.

 

The two-game winning streak of the Buffalo Sabres has been snapped following a loss on the road. JJ Peterka and Alex Tuch each had a goal as the Sabres fell to the Carolina Hurricanes by a final score of 5 to 2 at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina.   In fact, this now makes 11 losses in a row for the Sabres against the Hurricanes. Buffalo goaltender James Reimer gave up two goals on 29 shots before being replaced by Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen.   Next up, the Sabres host the Montreal Canadiens Saturday night with face-off at 7:00.

 

A federal deadline to get a REAL ID or Enhanced ID will soon be here. Here’s why it matters: Everyone flying in the United States will need a REAL ID, an Enhanced ID, a passport, or another form of accepted identification to fly when that deadline arrives on May 7, 2025. With that in mind, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and Transportation Security Administration are telling people it’s to their benefit to beat the rush.

 

St. Paul Lutheran School’s Annual Auction is scheduled for Saturday, March 15^th. An opportunity to browse items begins at 3:30 with the live auction starting at 4:00. Auctioneer David Kent will be on hand at the school for the event, at 31 Washington Avenue.

 

The Alexander Fire Department is hosting a Fisherman’s Flea Market on Saturday, March 29^th from 9am until 1:00pm. Used rods, reels, custom baits, tackle and more will be available at the Alexander Firemen’s Rec Hall. Admission is $3; children 12 and under are free. Lunch is available for purchase.

 

The Batavia City School District is now accepting registration applications for universal pre-kindergarten and kindergarten programs for the 2025-26 school year. For more information, call 585-343-2480 or visit bataviacsd.org/registration. The deadline to register is May 1^st.

 

Pope Francis’ condition has worsened. In an update Friday afternoon, the Vatican said the pontiff had a “sudden worsening of his respiratory condition.” Francis was put on non-invasive mechanical ventilation an “isolated attack of bronchospasm” that caused vomiting with inhalation. The Vatican said “further days of clinical stability are needed to clarify the prognosis.” Francis has been in the hospital for two weeks due to bronchitis and pneumonia.

 

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is dropping lawsuits against companies it accused of ripping customers off. The suits, against firms Capital One, Vanderbilt Mortgage, Rocket Homes Real Estate and loan servicer Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, were filed under the agency’s previous leadership under the Biden administration. The dismissals come after Russell Vought took over as director this month. Under Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, the CFPB has also closed its Washington, DC headquarters, fired about 200 employees and told the rest to effectively stop all work. The CFPB had accused Capital One of milking customers out of two-billion-dollars in interest payments. Rocket was accused of providing illegal kickback to real estate agents.

 

A majority of Americans say their paychecks are not keeping up with inflation. According to a survey from CBS News/YouGov, 77% of Americans say they can’t keep up with rising costs. A majority of respondents, 62%, say they’ve only seen prices go up in the last few weeks. People have mixed predictions when it comes to the economy’s future with 34% saying it will grow, another 22% saying it will hold steady, and another 44% saying it will either slow or head into a recession. At least 70% of people are worried about savings and buying extras while 53% are just worried about being able to afford groceries and housing.

 

60-year-old Raymond Dick of Batavia, along with Sandra Marsceill, have been arrested and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance. It’s alleged they were in possession of a controlled substance in a parking lot on Veterans Memorial Drive. Both Dick and Marsceill were released on appearance tickets.

 

Talks are continuing to end a strike by correctional officers across the state. Wednesday was the third day of mediation between the state, the New York’s Department of Corrections and Community Supervision workers. The wildcat strike began February 17th at Collins Correctional Facility near Buffalo. Officers have cited extreme working conditions for their walkout, which Governor Hochul says is illegal under state law.

 

Governor Hochul says she will not be endorsing a candidate for Buffalo’s Democratic primary race for mayor. She told reporters Tuesday she’s not in a position to be making endorsements, adding she’s got a state to govern. The Buffalo-born Democrat said, “I’ve got to focus, not on politics, but on governance.”

 

An 11-year-old boy driving a stolen vehicle struck a pedestrian on Wednesday night, according to Rochester police. The incident occurred just before 8:30 p.m. at the intersection of Flint Street and Jefferson Avenue. Authorities said the boy was behind the wheel of a Hyundai that had been reported stolen from Henrietta. While driving, he hit a 34-year-old woman who was crossing the street. Police said that the woman sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Due to the boy’s age, he cannot be charged with any crime, police said. After the incident, he contacted his parents, and a referral was made to the Monroe County Family Support Center.

 

A man is in guarded condition after being shot by state troopers yesterday morning in Olean. Officials say three troopers opened fire on Thomas Wright after he pointed a gun at them. The firearm turned out to be a BB gun, which was recovered at the scene. State police say the man was experiencing a mental health crisis and had made comments about ending his life.

 

New York State Police announced an upcoming change in the design of their patrol vehicle fleet. New troop cars will feature a gray body with gold striping, a transition from the current design of dark blue and yellow. More than 1,600 cars will undergo the change, that will phase them in as new cars are added. Since the 1980s, the colors have been blue and gold. The new gray design will match the troopers uniform.

 

The future of St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Buffalo is now in the hands of the Vatican. The Diocese of Buffalo confirmed to WGRZ the Vatican is evaluating whether the Washington Street church should be merged or closed.   A spokesperson with Save Our Buffalo Churches says it could take up to a year for the Vatican to issue a ruling.

 

The Buffalo Sabres will be on the road tonight as they look to earn a third straight victory. The Sabres are visiting Eastern Conference powerhouse the Carolina Hurricanes at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. Buffalo last played Tuesday night when they rallied to beat the Anaheim Ducks by a final score of three to two. Face-off for their contest this evening is set for 7:00.

 

The Rochester International Jazz Festival is coming up this summer, and the event has a brand-new title sponsor. It is now going to be known as the Rochester International Jazz Festival in partnership with Rochester Regional Health. RRH is an integrated health system that provides services throughout Western New York and it’s also the region’s second-largest employer.   The festival starts June 20th, and more details are available online.

 

Texas is reporting the first measles death in the U.S. since 2015. The death was confirmed by the head of public health for Lubbock’s health department. Seven other states have reported measles cases so far this year including Alaska, California, Georgia, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York and Rhode Island. The outbreak in Texas has infected more than 120 people. The disease was considered to be eliminated in the U.S. in 2000.

 

While an illegal strike by state corrections officers continues, Governor Hochul wants to further shake-up the prison system in New York with more proposed cutbacks. They appeared last week from the Governor’s office in Albany and now among her amendments to the state budget proposal from January, Governor Hochul is seeking the closure of up to five Department of Corrections state prisons.  It would be part of a trend where the New York Focus publication reports over 20 prisons have been closed over the past two decades as the prison population has dropped from over 70,000 to just over 33,000.  Also as expected following the fatal Marcy prison inmate beating with now charged prison staffers, Hochul wants all corrections officers to wear body cameras by state law.

 

Nikolas Romeo, a Rochester police officer, has been charged with sexual abuse and harassment. He appeared in Greece Town Court Tuesday. Romeo is currently suspended after an off-duty incident when he allegedly subjected an adult victim to nonconsensual sexual contact. Authorities said a complaint was filed “on or about Oct. 31, 2024.” Romeo has been with RPD since 2006; Greece police eventually arrested him on January 7th. The Rochester Police Department said it became aware of the incident early November, when Police Chief David Smith immediately ordered an internal investigation.

 

A North Tonawanda man was arrested on multiple sexual assault charges Tuesday, including promoting a sexual performance by a child, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office said. It is alleged that 24-year-old Cole Kish sexually abused a 15-year-old girl. He was charged with first-degree criminal sexual act, first-degree sex abuse, promoting a sexual performance by a child and criminal sex act. Kish is currently being held at the Niagara County Jail pending arraignment.

 

There will be a meeting this evening at Batavia Town Hall starting at 6:00. The New York Green Project received funding from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds for design of a proposed new public park. It will be located on a property owned by the Town of Batavia, located on Park Road in the city. The agenda tonight includes sharing and soliciting public feedback on the conceptual design for the proposed new park.

 

A jury in South Carolina is ordering the convicted killer of Brittanee Drexel to pay $700 million in total damages. Raymond Moody has to give $200 million to Drexel’s mother and the remaining $500 million are for punitive damages. Moody is serving life in prison for kidnapping, sexually assaulting, and killing the 17-year-old Drexel while she was on a trip to Myrtle Beach in 2009. The lawsuit filed by her mother said her daughter suffered emotional distress before being murdered.

 

A Clarence man has been sentenced to a year-and-a-half in prison in connection to a domestic violence incident in July 2023. Investigators say 47-year-old Henry Jurek the Third attempted to cause injuries to a victim by slamming their head into a cement ground at a home on Silver Birch Court. The victim had to be taken to the hospital via ambulance for treatment. Jurek pleaded guilty back in May to second-degree attempted assault.

 

A brand-new version of the popular board game Monopoly has been released, and it features the City of Rochester. The official unveiling took place yesterday at the Strong National Museum of Play. This special edition features landmarks like Highland Park and the Rochester Institute of Technology as well as items such as garbage plates and lilacs.   The game is available for $44.99 and can be purchased at us.toptrumps.com.

 

The Buffalo Sabres kept their winning ways going last night at the KeyBank Center. JJ Peterka, Alex Tuch and Henri Jokiharju all scored goals in the third period to dig Buffalo out of a two-goal deficit and defeat the Anaheim Ducks 3-2. The Sabres have now won six straight games on their home ice, which is the longest streak since November 2018. Buffalo hits the ice again tomorrow as they travel to play the Carolina Hurricanes.

 

44-year-old Nicole Woodruff of Batavia has been arrested. She’s charged with grand larceny, criminal mischief and possession of burglar tools. It’s alleged Woodruff entered Dick’s Sporting Goods, concealed several pieces of merchandise after cutting the security tags off of them, and exited to store without providing payment. Woodruff was issued an appearance ticket and is due to appear in Batavia Town Court on March 11.  ALSO: 54-year-old Kevin Knickerbocker of Byron has been charged with criminal contempt after being arrested by the Sheriffs. He allegedly failed to abide by an order of protection out of Byron Town Court. Knickerbocker was arraigned in CAP Court in front of Judge Mattice.

 

A meeting will be held tomorrow evening at 6:00 at Batavia Town Hall. The New York Green Project received funding from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds for design of a proposed new public park. It will be located on a property owned by the Town of Batavia, located on Park Road in the city. The agenda tomorrow evening includes sharing and soliciting public feedback on the conceptual design for the proposed new park.

 

Drivers feeding gas pumps are finding prices are holding steady.   According to Triple A this afternoon, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.14. The state average is $3.17. In Batavia, the average price for a gallon of regular gas is also $3.17; that’s a penny cheaper than it was a week and a month ago and 14 cents lower than what we were paying a year ago today.

 

A nine-year-old girl from Alden has passed away after complications from the flu. Mia Klyczek’s family confirmed her death on Sunday, just days after she tested positive for flu B. Mia’s mother, Christina, said they took her to the hospital after she began having a seizure in the early hours of Wednesday morning.   Doctors believed the flu caused severe swelling and bleeding in the brain, along with heart issues. A go fund me page has been set up to help with medical and funeral expenses: https://www.gofundme.com/f/miracles-for-mia-klyczek

 

A child and their mother are continuing to recover after being hit by a school bus in Greece.   Authorities say the 10-year-old their parent were in the area of California Drive and Haviland Park yesterday when they ended up being struck. The child was riding the bus before the incident and was dragged for a short distance down Haviland Park due to the driver not seeing them or their mother after they got off the bus. Both victims are going to be OK and no charges have been filed.

 

Inmates at the Collins Correctional Facility are being moved due to ongoing strikes. In a statement, the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision said the ongoing illegal actions of certain correction officers who refuse to show up to work are putting the safety and well being of New Yorkers at risk. The movements have also created staffing shortages, leading them to start the process of transferring incarcerated individuals from the Collins facility to other prisons to ensure appropriate use of staff resources.

 

Clinical and professional workers at UR Medicine Home Care will be back on the job today. Those employees took part in a one-day strike yesterday outside the company’s office in Webster.   Workers have been without a contract since May, and are trying to reach an agreement that addresses their concerns such as having high caseloads and expensive health insurance. URMHC says it’s negotiating in good faith and that progress has been made towards making tentative agreements on key issues.

 

Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado has made a major announcement about his political future. Delgado said yesterday he won’t be joining Governor Hochul on the Democratic Party ticket as she seeks to win another term next year. Delgado says he is fully committed to finishing his term and that he’ll explore other options. The governor’s communications director says it’s obvious Delgado isn’t interested in doing the Lieutenant Governor’s job and that Hochul is already working to choose a new running mate.

 

The Buffalo Sabres will be back on home ice tonight as they look to pick up a second straight win. The Sabres are hosting the Anaheim Ducks of the Western Conference at KeyBank Center.   Buffalo last played Saturday when they blew out the New York Rangers by a final score of 8 to 2 and improved their point total this year to 51. Face-off for tonight’s game is scheduled for 7:00.

 

One of the biggest stars in professional wrestling history is coming to Rochester next week. WWE Hall of Famer Hulk Hogan is expected to make a visit to Beers of the World on East Henrietta Road March 4th at 11:00am. The 71-year-old will do a meet and greet with fans plus promote the release of his Real American Beer. The event is free to attend and more information is available online. https://www.newyorkupstate.com/food/2025/02/meet-hulk-hogan-on-his-upstate-ny-tour-to-promote-his-real-american-beer.html

 

The tush push could become a thing of the past. NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent said Monday that an unidentified team has submitted a rule proposal to ban the controversial quarterback sneak. NFL owners could vote on the proposal next month at the owners’ meeting in Palm Beach, unless the team decides to withdraw its proposal. The play has been looked at by the NFL and the competition committee in previous off seasons, but no action has been taken. The Philadelphia Eagles and Buffalo Bills have scored a touchdown or gotten a first down on 87% of their tush push attempts.   The rest of the league has been successful just 71% of the time.

 

 

An 18-year-old graduate of Pembroke High School, who recently made the Dean’s List at the University at Albany, was critically injured in a four-vehicle accident on the Thruway in the Town of Salina. According to State Police, Anneka Pray of Corfu was a front-seat passenger in a 2016 Jeep Compass driven by 22-year-old Christopher Baker of South Glens Falls. Investigation into the accident suggests the driver of a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado lost control and swerved, causing a Ford F-550 to brake and exit the north shoulder of the roadway to avoid a collision. The Jeep rear-ended the Ford and partially entered the passing lane, where it was struck by a westbound Freightliner tractor-trailer operated by 35-year-old Sarjo Drammeh of Wisconsin. The tractor-trailer fled the scene but was later located at the Seneca Service area on the Thruway. Pray, who has been blind since birth, participated in cross-country at Pembroke and was praised by her teachers for knowing what she wanted and going for it. Pray is listed in critical condition at Upstate University Hospital. Baker is hospitalized in serious condition. The investigation into the accident continues today.

 

A teenage bicyclist from Corfu was killed in a vehicle crash in the Town of Alabama. According to Sheriff’s, 17-year-old Arthur Breton the Third was riding his bicycle north in the northbound lane of Tesnow Road when he collided with 37-year-old Daphne Sundown of Basom, who was also traveling northbound with her son. Sundown reportedly was unable to see Breton when she struck him, ejecting him from his bicycle. Both Sundown and her son attempted to administer aid to Breton and called 9-1-1. Alabama and Pembroke Fire Departments responded and attempted to save Breton’s life, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. Drugs and alcohol were ruled out as factors. The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the crash with the assistance of its own Crash Management Team. Alabama and Pembroke firefighters, Mercy EMS and several bystanders also assisted at the scene.

 

A proposal aimed to protect children is up for a vote in Albany. The proposal comes from State Senator Pam Helming from suburban Rochester. She wants to require the Office of Children and Family Services and the Department of Corrections to alert both school districts and local police when a felony offender under 18 is released.  Helming said the bill would protect not only school communities but young offenders as well.  The Republican argues that the bill would help law enforcement can prepare and implement their required informed assessments to ensure the safety of the school community, as well as the safe transition for the juvenile. Under current state law, the Department of Corrections has to tell law enforcement when felony offenders are released from custody, but not when minor felony offenders are released.

 

Two more arrests have been made in connection with the murder of a transgender man. Officials say one of these latest suspects is the son of a woman who is already charged following the death of 24-year-old Sam Nordquist. Nordquist was found dead in Yates County earlier this month, and an autopsy revealed he suffered months of torture before passing away.   Nordquist was reported missing in Oneida County and the DA says it’s possible more people could be taken into custody.

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Dozens gathered in Niagara Park on Saturday to remember a 24-year-old man tortured and killed in Canandaigua this month. State police said Sam Nordquist, a transgender man, was tortured for more than a month and then eventually murdered by a group of people. Seven people have been charged in his death. Another community gathering for Nordquist will be held on March 7th at the Westminster Presbyterian Church on Delaware Avenue.

 

Flags statewide were lowered to half-staff today to mark the third anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Those flags will be down from sunrise until sunset before landmarks are illuminated in blue and yellow, which are the colors of the Ukrainian flag.   In our area, those landmarks include Niagara Falls and Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal. Governor Hochul says New York proudly stands with Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s assault.

 

Folks from the New York State Lottery tell us that one top-prize winning ticket for the February 23^rd Take 5 Evening drawing was sold at Tops in Batavia. The ticket is worth $28,737.50. The winning numbers were 2-9-12-29-31.

 

The Rochester Fringe Festival is coming up this fall, and tomorrow performers interested in taking part can submit their applications. Artists are encouraged to create production plans that could be used at multiple venues during the festival, which runs September 9th through the 20th. An information session called “Rochester Fringe 101” is going to be taking place today through Zoom from noon until one p-m. For more details, head to backstage.rochesterfringe.com.

 

The Professional Women’s Hockey League made a stop in Buffalo over the weekend. Over 8,000 fans came out to KeyBank Center last night to watch the league’s Boston Fleet and New York Sirens. The game was part of the league’s “Takeover Tour”, which is designed to increase the league’s footprint and identify cities that could be considered for a possible expansion.   Boston won last night’s game 3-2.

 

 

 

City of Batavia residents that own property and pay utility costs have an opportunity to learn more and speak up about the proposed 2025-26 budget. A City Council conference session is scheduled for 7:00pm Monday on the second floor of City Hall. A direct link to the detailed story written by Joanne Beck for TheBatavian is available here:   https://www.thebatavian.com/jfbeck99272012/public-hearings-offer-opportunities-to-learn-speak-up-about-proposed-budget-tax-cap

 

40-year-old Jerad Stalker of Pembroke has been arrested in Batavia by the Genesee County Sheriffs. He’s charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance; this followed a search that found narcotics inside one of his pockets. Stalker is scheduled to return to Batavia Town Court on March 11^th.

 

A mediator is hoping to help resolve the ongoing prison guard strike across New York State. Sessions with the mediator, Martin F. Scheinman from a Long Island based firm, are set to begin Monday and could last through Thursday. Prison guards are making several demands, including mandated body scans for visitors, a way to scan mail coming to inmates, and getting rid of overtime mandates.   The work stoppages, which Governor Hochul has said are illegal and dangerous, have led officials to cancel visitation at more than 40 state prisons. She has called in more than 3,500 members of the National Guard to help unmanned facilities.

 

State officials are announcing changes to meet the demands of striking prison workers. In a memo, the state’s Department of Corrections and Community Services said that it plans to suspend portions of the HALT Act, which limits how long an inmate can be placed in solitary confinement. It’s been one of the top asks of officers on strike. The memo also said anyone who returned to work by 11:59 last night would not face disciplinary actions. The strike has expanded to over 30 prisons across the state, including four in Western New York.

 

 

The son of Robert Brooks is speaking out after multiple prison guards are charged in connection with his father’s death. Those guards at Marcy Correctional Facility are accused of severely beating Brooks last December and his death was later ruled a homicide.   Robert Brooks Junior said yesterday he’ll never get his father back and convictions would not be enough. The brutal attack was captured on video and the guards are facing charges including murder.

 

A man is being found guilty of attempted murder in the New York stabbing of author Salman Rushdie. In 2022, the award-winning novelist was about to speak in front of an audience when Hadi Matar rushed at him and stabbed him more than a dozen times. The New Jersey man faces up to 25 years in prison. Rushdie was seriously wounded and blinded in one eye from the attack.

 

 

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez has finished up a trip to Rochester. She was in the city yesterday to discuss Governor Hochul’s priorities for travel and transportation as part of her state budget proposal.   The governor is calling for an additional 800-million dollars for the DOT’s capital plan, which helps communities with road and bridge projects. The deadline for Hochul and lawmakers to get a budget passed on time in April 1st.

 

Organizers of the Lilac Festival have announced the musical acts that’ll headline this year’s event. Among the artists scheduled to perform include The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Cruel Summer, Katie Pruitt, The Aces and Chayce Beckham.   The Lilac Festival goes from May 9th through the 18th at Highland Park in Rochester. To find out the full schedule, head to cityofrochester.gov.

 

This weekend, the Legends and Stars Sports Collectors Expo will have several former Buffalo Football, Hockey and Basketball Players, Hall of Fame Hockey Athletes and Buffalo born actor, Chad Michael Murray, present inside of the Park Place Events Center at Batavia Downs located at 8315 Park Road, Batavia. The Memorabilia Show with vendors will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 22 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, February 23. Kids 12 and under are FREE. Admission for all others is $10. Paid admission receives $10 in Free Play on the Gaming Floor. Full details including autograph prices are available on Legendsandstars.net.

 

After an almost two-week break, the Buffalo Sabres will be back on the ice this weekend. The Sabres, who currently sit in last place in the Eastern Conference, are hosting the New York Rangers at KeyBank Center. Buffalo last played on February 8th when they were beaten by the Nashville Predators by a final score of 6 to 4. Face-off for their game Saturday afternoon is set for 5:30.

 

New York Attorney General Letitia James is suing more than a dozen vape distributors. The lawsuit against 13 vape brands, including Puff Bar and Breeze, alleges these companies are fueling the youth vaping epidemic by illegally distributing and marketing flavored disposable vapes. The lawsuit seeks hundreds of millions of dollars for penalties for wide-ranging violations of local, state, and federal laws. James says for too long, the vaping industry has taken a page out of Big Tobacco’s playbook by making nicotine seem cool, getting kids hooked, and creating a massive public health crisis in the process.

 

 

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced legislation to raise the minimum age to purchase assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines from 18 to 21, the same age requirement that already applies to purchasing handguns from federally licensed dealers. Individuals under 21 have used assault weapons in some of the most devastating shootings in U.S. history, including the 2022 mass shooting at the Tops supermarket in Buffalo in which 10 people died.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul has signed an executive order declaring a statewide disaster emergency and is activating the New York National Guard amid an ongoing strike at state prisons. The order, which is in effect through March 21, allows the National Guard to be inside state prisons while workers strike outside. Hochul said the order is meant to stabilize prisons and maintain security. The union representing the workers said it didn’t authorize the strike, which grew Wednesday to some 30 state prisons.

 

Graduate workers at the University of Rochester are announcing their intention to go on strike. Those employees say they’ll walk off the job if school officials don’t agree to what they believe is a fair process toward forming a union. They are looking to create a union for collective bargaining reasons because some of the graduate workers make just $15,000 a year.   The university previously said it supports the rights of students to decide if union representation is best for them.

 

A jury has found an Orchard Park man guilty of sexually abusing two children.  30-year-old Edward Tutuska was found guilty of one count of Course of Sexual Conduct Against a Child, one count of Sexual Abuse and two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. The jury deliberated for less than two hours following a six-day trial.  Investigators say that between March 1, 2023 and March 15, 2024, Tutuska engaged in multiple sex acts with a child who was less than 11-years-old in Orchard Park and subjected another child under the age of 11-years-old to sexual acts. Tutuska was known to both victims; he faces up to 14-years in prison when he is sentenced in April. He is currently being held without bail. Temporary orders of protection have been issued on behalf of both victims.

 

Wegmans is joining the list of supermarket chains limiting the number of eggs customers can purchase. The company’s website says people can only buy up to 10 cartons of a dozen eggs or 18-count eggs with a maximum of 180. National retailers and supermarkets are putting restrictions on egg purchases because of a shortage caused by an avian flu outbreak. Egg prices have nearly doubled in the last year from $2.52 last February to $4.95 last month.

 

The Holy Cross Church on the city’s west side will remain open despite earlier plans to close as part of the diocese’s restructuring plan. The church was granted approval after the Diocese heard a counter proposal, eventually leading to the change.   Diocesan Vicar for Renewal and Development Bryan Zielenieski said Holy Cross has been deemed essential for ministry and mission and has been placed on a watch list to help the parish deal with the financial stability that is needed.

 

The case of a Kenmore doctor accused of forcibly touching a patient in 2019 has been dismissed.   Mark Fisher was accused of touching a female patient’s intimate parts while working as a physician at the ECMC Outpatient Behavioral Health Center. He had been charged with forcible touching and was removed from practicing by ECMC.

 

The Buffalo Bills could be heading overseas to play a game internationally this season. The Bills are reportedly being considered for contests in Ireland, Spain or the United Kingdom, but no official decision has been made yet. The defending AFC East champions played in London back in 2023 when they fell to the Jacksonville Jaguars by a final score of 25 to 20. The NFL will release its full schedule this spring.

 

As a result of the messy, snowy weather, Batavia Downs management has canceled the live card of harness racing scheduled for today for the safety and welfare of all the participants. Live racing will resume on Monday, February 24^th at 3 p.m., which will be the last card of the winter meet.

 

The judge in the trial of Bryan Kohberger has denied several defense motions.   Judge Steven Hippler denied a motion that using DNA to identify Kohberger did not violate his 4th Amendment rights. Search warrants for cell phone location data were lawfully obtained. Hippler also denied a request for a Franks Hearing to determine if investigators lied or omitted information to obtain warrants. Kohberger is charged in the murder of four University of Idaho students. The trial is set to start August 11th.

 

Researchers at the University of Virginia believe they’ve made a promising discovery that could help reverse baldness. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation details recent tests done on a protein called krox-20. The tests show that stem cells containing the protein may be responsible for hair growth. Small amounts of the protein are present in hair follicles beneath the scalp, even in those who are already bald or balding. Researchers think re-activating the protein found in those follicles could lead to new hair growth.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul will send the National Guard into New York prisons as she urges correction officers to stop striking. Hochul says the strikes are illegal and must end immediately but she will still send the National Guard to an undisclosed number of corrections facilities to protect inmates and staff if protests continue. Following a violent uprising at Collins Prison, officers at Collins and a nearby correction facility ditched their shifts to protest their working conditions. That caused officials to cancel visitation at more than a half-a-dozen prisons. The current labor contract does not expire until March of 2026, but the governor has directed her team to meet with union leadership.

 

An Ontario County grand jury has indicted five suspects in connection with the murder of a transgender man. The defendants are each facing at least one felony charge for their alleged roles in the death of Sam Nordquist. He was reported missing by family members in Ontario County earlier this month before his body was later discovered in Yates County. The suspects will be in court at a later date after their appearance today was cancelled.

 

Joel Violanti is now the acting United States Attorney for the Western District of New York. This comes after former U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York Trini Ross stepped down from her position. Ross was first nominated by former President Joe Biden in July 2021 and confirmed by the Senate two months later. She was the first Black woman to hold the position in the area. Violanti will now oversee the prosecution of any federal case in the 17 counties of Western New York.

 

St. John Fisher University is announcing plans to add a brand-new degree program. Starting in the fall, the school will have a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in human services. The course is going to focus on an understanding of families and public health policies. Students will learn from a variety of experts in the fields of psychology, sociology and political science. Graduates will likely be able to get a job as a case manager with substance abuse treatment facilities and mental health centers.

 

Six Flags Darien Lake is looking to hire 1,500 seasonal associates for the 2025 season before opening day on May 16. The amusement park is holding hiring events today and for the remainder of this week to start filling open positions, which include:

• Food & Beverage Associates
• Ride Operators
• Lifeguards
• Sales Associates for Merchandise
• Park Services Attendants
• Hotel and Campground Associates

Hourly pay starts at $15.50 for anyone 16 years and older and is based on experience, prior service, and position.  Candidates may also apply online or in person, during the following times to learn about the job opportunities and be interviewed same-day.

• Thursday, Feb. 20 (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
• Friday, Feb. 21 (12 p.m. to 7 p.m.)
• Saturday, Feb. 22. (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.)

https://jobs.sixflags.com/en/search-jobs?acm=ALL&alrpm=ALL&ascf=[%7B%22key%22:%22custom_fields.MultiCompanyValue%22,%22value%22:%22Six+Flags+Darien+Lake%22%7D]

 

Albert the Alligator could be coming home in less than a month after he was seized from his home almost a year ago. Tony Cavallaro, the owner of the reptile, had him as a pet at his home in Hamburg for over 30 years. Last March, Albert was seized and taken to a rehab in Texas after officials said Cavallaro’s license to own the alligator expired. Now a New York State judge says the Department of Environmental Conservation must review Cavallaro’s application for a license to keep his pet.   If the department fails to act in 30 days, the alligator must be returned to Cavallaro.

 

Opening Day at Sahlen Field is almost here and the Buffalo Bisons are celebrating with a special pre-sale event for single-game tickets. Service fees are currently being waived on any single-game ticket that’s purchased on the Bison’s website now through Friday.   This includes games like Opening Day on March 28th, Star Wars Night on May 31st, and the team’s first ever Harry Potter night on August 23rd. No promo code is needed for the sale.

 

Coca-Cola is launching a new prebiotic drink called Simply Pop. A spokesperson said the product will be available on the West Coast, Southeastern U.S. and online nationwide via Amazon Fresh.   A study by Euromonitor International data said the digestive health soft drink market growth has doubled over the last few years. Simply Pop flavors will come in pineapple mango, lime, strawberry, fruit punch and citrus punch. The drink has no added sugars and contains vitamin C, zinc, six grams of prebiotic fiber and up to thirty-percent fruit juice. Simply Pop will hit the shelves at the end of this month.

 

Homebuilder sentiment fell sharply in February related to growing concerns over tariffs. The National Association of Homebuilders’ housing market index has dropped five-points from January to its lowest level in five months. The NAHB noted policy uncertainty and rising costs as primary factors. Builders are already facing higher prices on imported lumber, appliances and other products. Mortgage rates now topping seven percent for an average 30-year fixed loan are also keeping many potential new homebuyers on the sidelines.

 

Corrections officers are on a historic strike at male prisons around the state today, including Attica and the two correctional facilities in Orleans County. Generally speaking, officers are demanding the HALT Act be rescinded. That state law has limited how inmates can be put in solitary confinement. It has taken punishment and deterrents away from officers in trying to keep the facility safe for both staff and other incarcerated people. The union representing the corrections officers, the New York State Correction Officers Police Benevolent Association, is not sanctioning the strikes.

 

One person is dead and two are injured after a crash on Alexander Road. Officials say 54-year-old Anya Rambuski of Batavia was traveling northeast on Route 98 in the town of Alexander when she lost control and went into the southwest lane, striking a Jeep. Rambuski was pronounced dead at the scene. The occupants of the Jeep sustained minor injuries.

 

In case you’re heading in either direction, a lake effect snow warning remains in effect for Orleans and Monroe Counties until 1:00 Wednesday afternoon; heavy lake effect snow is predicted, with additional accumulations of 8 to 16 inches possible in the most persistent lake snows. Winds could gust to 35 mph. Travel will be very difficult in the areas of blowing snow. If driving through these areas, be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions and visibilities.

 

After rising the last few weeks, the number of flu cases is holding steady in Western New York. During the week ending February 8th, the area with the highest number of infections was Monroe County with 1,920. That was followed by Erie County with 841; Niagara County reported 225 and Livingston County, 143. Genesee County documented 81 cases and Wyoming County, 52.   New York State is in the midst of its worst flu season in more than a decade with over 335,000 confirmed cases since October and it isn’t too late to get a flu shot.

 

We aren’t seeing much of a change in the price of gas when it comes time to fill up. Triple A says the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel right now is $3.16. The state average is $3.18. In Batavia, the average price is also $3.18; that’s the same as it was a week ago, down a penny from a month ago and it’s a nickel lower than it was a year ago today.

 

A former City of Buffalo sanitation worker has been arrested and is in custody at the Erie County Holding Center. 47-year-old Sasiya Malika Davis-Johnson was arrested on Sunday; she is charged with assault and being reckless. Davis Johnson was driving the garbage truck that hit 17-year-old Klaw Rey who was headed to school in October 2024.  Rey remains hospitalized today at ECMC and is paralyzed from the waist down. The day the family filed a notice of claim to sue the city, it was learned that Davis-Johnson was no longer employed. Davis Johnson appeared before a State Supreme court judge this morning. The injured teen is a student at Leonardo Da Vinci in Buffalo. He was hit on Rhode Island and 14th Street, not far from his home.

 

At least nine employees of Marcy Correctional Facility are scheduled to face a judge later this week. All of those individuals are going to be arraigned Thursday after being accused of having a role in the brutal beating death of inmate Robert Brooks in December. Multiple corrections officers punched and kicked Brooks while he was in the prison’s infirmary, and he passed away hours later. Brooks’ death was later ruled a homicide.

 

A potential safety hazard has led to a voluntary recall of granola bars, some of which are sold locally at Walmart. There is a very small risk that some of the MadeGood brand granola bar products made between January and November 2024 may contain a piece of metal. The source of the issue has been identified and corrected. There have been no reports of injury. Please check your pantry and return recalled products to the store for a full refund. If you believe you have one of the recalled products, and want more information, call 855-215-5695 between 8am and 5pm.

 

Ontario County District Attorney says Sam Nordquist’s is the most horrific case his department has prosecuted. “It is absolutely without question the worst thing that we have ever seen,” he said. Authorities said the 24-year-old Nordquist of Oakdale, Minnesota, endured unthinkable torture before he was murdered. All five suspects are charged with second-degree murder with depraved indifference, which carry potential sentences of 15 to 20 years if convicted.

• Precious Arzuaga, 38
• Kyle Sage, 33
• Patrick Goodwin, 30
• Emily Motyka, 19
• Jennifer Quijano, 30

Ritts said three out of the five suspects have previous criminal convictions. Sage and Goodwin are both currently on parole. Sage was convicted of larceny and disseminating indecent material to a minor. Goodwin was convicted of first-degree criminal sex act and sexual abuse involving a victim under the age of 11. He’s a registered Level 3 sex offender. “Precious Arzuaga has four misdemeanor convictions,” Ritts added. “Nothing sexual, but petty larcenies, criminal trespass and a sale of an imitation control substance.” Authorities said Nordquist was living at Patty’s Lodge in Hopewell after traveling from Minnesota.

 

The first of two free snowmobiling weekends in the Empire State is coming up soon. From February 28th through March 2nd, New York is waiving registration fees for out-of-state snowmobilers to encourage people to visit and check out the state’s over 10,000 miles of trails. Participants must operate a snowmobile that is registered in their home state or province and carry insurance. The second free snowmobiling weekend is March 7th through 9th.

 

A rare letter valued at $150,000 written by George Washington is up for sale.   A Raab Collection spokesperson said it was written during the Revolutionary War, where the General had fought for independence from Britain for two years. In the letter, Washington praised colonists at the heart of the American Revolution and the spirit of the colonists to take up their own arms to fight off the British oppressors. It’s eight by 12 inches, hand written on both sides of one sheet and has a smudged fingerprint near Washington’s signature.

 

Egg prices continue to soar. According to a new report from the USDA over the weekend, wholesale egg prices jumped forty-cents over the last 30 days; that means a dozen eggs costs distributors $7.44. That has yet to be fully passed down to consumers, with the national average price for a dozen eggs $4.95 in January. That is expected to climb with shortages continuing and distributors passing down the risings costs to shoppers. The rising number of bird flu cases is being blamed for ongoing egg shortages.

 

A Batavia woman was killed after losing control of her vehicle. 54-year-old Anya Rambuski was driving her 2016 Buick Encore northeast yesterday on Alexander Road when she went into the southwest lane and hit a 2021 Jeep. Rambuski was pronounced dead at the scent of the noon crash, which closed Route 98 between Pike and Dodgeson Roads. The driver of the Jeep sustained minor injuries. The crash was one of many accidents reported throughout the GLOW region over the course of the storm that moved through yesterday.

 

The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory, in effect until 6:00pm this evening. Sustained west winds of 20 to 30 mph are predicted, with gusts up to 50 mph. Bitterly cold wind chills will result, and make it feel as low as 20 degrees below zero. Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.   With all of this in mind, a cold weather advisory is also in effect through 10:00am tomorrow morning. The bitter cold will cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. If you must be outside, be sure to cover all exposed skin.

 

The Ontario County District Attorney’s Office says there’s no evidence to suggest the murder of a transgender man was a hate crime. Sam Nordquist was reported missing by his family February 9th and his body was found three days later in Yates County.   It was later determined Nordquist was killed in Ontario County before his remains ended up being moved. Five people have been arrested in connection with this case.

 

73-year-old Robert Smith of Blasdell has been arrested by the Genesee County Sheriffs. He’s charged with second degree menacing with a weapon after pulling a box cutter knife on a worker of Eagle Star Housing in Batavia. Smith was arraigned in CAP Court.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul and other state officials are warning residents of an E-ZPass text message scam attempting to collect tolls. The fake texts are sent from an international phone number and request the recipients to reply with “Y” to receive a link, which contains an unofficial website. Officials said E-ZPass or Tolls by Mail would never send a text or email requesting sensitive personal information. Anyone believed to have been scammed can call E-ZPass or Tolls by Mail.

 

The frisk of the Collins Correctional Facility in southern Erie County ended over the weekend. The prison was put on lockdown Wednesday after a prisoner was found attempting to discard contraband, which resulted in the use of force and the recovery of two cellphones. The state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision says the frisk resulted in the recovery of 23 weapons, two minor uses of force resulting in no injuries and no assaults.   The facility will “begin the reopening process in a slow and controlled manner with visitation.”

 

Dozens of people are going to be losing their jobs due to the closure of a store at The Mall at Greece Ridge. Macy’s has told its 50 employees that their final day of work is expected to be April 11th. Last month, the retail chain announced plans to shutter over 60 stores nationwide, including the one at Greece Ridge. The Macy’s located at Eastview Mall in Victor is staying open.

 

A bird flu vaccine for chickens now has the green light. The Department of Agriculture gave conditional approval Friday to Zoetis, a company which started updating its vaccine in 2022. Millions of chickens have been killed to stop the spread, causing a massive spike in egg prices.

 

A new flavor will soon be available for Wendy’s Frosty lovers. On Friday, February 21st, Wendy’s will start selling Thin Mint-flavored Frostys.   Last year, Wendy’s sold an average of 500 Frostys a minute across the United States.

 

 

A memorial service has been held for the 10-year-old boy who lost his life in a fire. Last Thursday, Javarius-Gus Williams and two of his siblings ended up being trapped due to a fire at an apartment building on Vine Street in Batavia. Williams’ four-year-old sister and 12-year-old brother are still in the hospital and recovering. The children were home alone when the fire happened and the cause of the blaze remains under investigation.

 

A hazardous weather outlook has been issued by the National Weather Service and we all know what that means. A few inches of snow will fall off and on throughout the day on Saturday with Sunday promising to be the messier day. Stay tuned to WBTA for weather updates throughout the weekend.

 

The Genesee County Sheriffs have arrested two Batavia residents. 44-year-old Clint Towne and 49-year-old Steven Morales now face multiple felony charges, including criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, and tampering with physical evidence. Misdemeanor charges include criminally using drug paraphernalia and aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle. Their arrest followed a traffic stop on Lewiston Road; they were held at the Genesee County Jail pending CAP Court arraignment for both to respond to the alleged charges.

 

A former Springville elementary school teacher has been sentenced to ten years in prison for receipt of child pornography. Officials say 47-year-old Frank Noeson the Third began communicating with a 16-year-old girl on Snapchat and persuaded her to send explicit photos to him. He also had sexual communications with a 15-year-old girl in New Hampshire using Snapchat. Along with the prison sentence, Noeson will also have 30 years of supervised release.

 

A federal deadline to get a REAL ID or Enhanced ID will soon be here. Here’s why it matters: Everyone flying in the United States will need a REAL ID, an Enhanced ID, a passport, or another form of accepted identification to fly when that deadline arrives on May 7, 2025. With that in mind, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles and Transportation Security Administration are telling people it’s to their benefit to beat the rush. dmv.ny.gov

 

Staff shortages, the lack of slots and high costs lead the challenges of finding childcare in New York State. That’s according to a new report from the New York State Comptroller’s Office. The Office of Child and Family Services says the number of childcare providers has steadily declined since before the pandemic. The Office of Child and Family Services has several resources on their website for parents and families for child care. Click here for more information: ocfs.ny.gov/programs/childcare

 

A former Avon police chief is now awaiting sentencing in an embezzlement case. 40-year-old Joseph Geer has pleaded guilty to theft of funds related to a federal program. That program created Geer’s one-year school resource officer (SRO) contract for $10,000 between the Avon Police Department and the Avon Central School District. Geer told the judge while under oath that at times when he should have been working as the district’s SRO, he was instead doing police chief duties and another officer was covering for him. Last March, the Avon Village Board suspended Geer. He resigned as police chief a month later. Geer is now set to be sentenced June 5. He faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

 

There is a brand-new development in the ongoing legal case involving Angel Vause.   In a South Carolina courtroom Friday, Vause was sentenced to 18 years in prison for lying to investigators about where she was the night her boyfriend, Raymond Moody, murdered Brittanee Drexel of Chili. Drexel was on a trip to Myrtle Beach back in 2009 when she was killed, and her body wasn’t found until years later. Moody was already ordered to spend the rest of his life in prison.

 

A new strain of mpox has been confirmed in New York for the first time. The New York State Department of Health issued a health advisory Wednesday, saying a new strain of the viral disease has been confirmed in a person with symptoms who had recently traveled to Africa. The department says the risk to the public is currently low, as there are no other known cases at this time. Mpox is rarely fatal, but can be dangerous to people with weak immune systems. The new strain is reportedly more infectious. Individuals infected with mpox are urged to stay isolated until their symptoms are resolved.

 

State residents who like to fish can cast a line free of charge this weekend. The first free fishing weekend of 2025 gets underway tomorrow and runs through Sunday and no license is required to participate.   The weekend is an opportunity for folks to spend time outdoors while also enjoying a wide variety of fishing activities such as angling and ice fishing. The other free fishing days this year are June 28th and 29th, September 27th and November 11th.

 

The Buffalo Bills are calling on artists of all skill levels for an art program at the new Highmark Stadium. The team says they are looking to create a permanent art presence in the stadium, which is slated to open next year. Art should capture the essence of Bills fans and the diverse demographics of Buffalo. Calls for wall-based artwork, murals and sculptural ceiling art will open later this month. Artists will be selected in the summer. People interested can visit buffalobillsnewstadium.com.

 

The next Bethany Fire Department’s all-you-can-eat-breakfast will be held on Sunday, March 9^th from 8am until noon, or until sold out. It’s happening at the Bethany Community Center and they’ll be serving scrambled eggs, pancakes, two meats, sausage gravy and biscuits, home fries, toast, juice and coffee. The cost is $12 for adults; $5 for children age 7 to 12; and kids 6 and under eat for free. For more information, call 585-356-2658.

 

Car enthusiasts from around the state will be heading to Syracuse over the next couple of days to check out the annual Syracuse Auto Expo. The event continues today at the Oncenter on South State Street and will wrap up on Sunday. The Syracuse Automobile Dealers Association has been putting on this show since 1907 and there will be hundreds of vehicles located throughout the building. More information, including a list of events and ticket prices, can be found at autoexposyracuse.com.

 

Igloo is recalling more than one million coolers over concerns they could amputate fingertips. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said the recall involves Igloo’s 90-quart Flip-and-Tow Rolling Coolers. The CPSC says the tow handle can pinch consumers’ fingertips against the cooler, posing fingertip and crushing hazards. The commission says there have been a dozen reports of injured fingertips, including amputations, lacerations and bone fractures.   People who have these coolers are being told to stop using them immediately and contact Igloo to get a free replacement handle.

 

Pope Francis is in the hospital. The 88-year-old Pontiff was admitted to a hospital in Rome this morning for what the Vatican said was treatment for bronchitis and diagnostic testing.   Today’s development is just the latest in a years-long string of concerns over the health of the leader of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics.

 

 

Authorities continue to investigate the cause of a deadly fire last Thursday at a home on Vine Street in Batavia. Three young children, including a 10-year-old boy who eventually died from his injuries, were rescued from the fire. As of yesterday, the 12-year-old victim remains in critical condition at United Memorial Medical Center. The 4-year-old victim, who was also previously in critical condition, is now alert. Two police officers and one firefighter were treated for minor injuries and resumed working, according to police. Anyone with information on the fire is asked to contact the Batavia Police Department at (585) 345-6444.

 

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand wants to set a limit for how much you pay for your prescription medication and is backing something called the Capping Prescription Drug Act. Gillibrand said yesterday that prescription costs are up 40% in the past 10 years and shared a concern that insurance companies do not cover their share of the costs. She noted “Many (people) are on fixed incomes and are forced to choose between paying for their prescriptions or paying for their everyday, other essentials, from food to heat to rent,” she said. “By the time they turn 60, most Americans are taking at least one prescription medication, and many say it’s difficult to afford them.” The proposed bill would cap the yearly prescription costs per person to $2,000 and the cost for families at $4,000.

 

The Rochester City School District is looking into the assault of a student on a school bus. Video of that altercation shows at least two adults getting on the bus before being involved in a fight between two students. A woman says her 12-year-old cousin was the student who was attacked and the district said in a statement that this behavior is unacceptable and that the safety of students and staff is a top priority. No arrests have been made in the case.

 

State Senator George Borrello is urging Governor Kathy Hochul to fix the Farm Employer Overtime Credit in her 30-day budget amendments. Borrello says a loophole in New York’s overtime pay mandates for farm employees prevent many farmers from being eligible to claim the tax credit. “New York’s farmers have endured relentless regulatory and financial burdens, and this tax credit was meant to provide meaningful relief as they adjust to the state’s overtime mandate,” Borrello said. Governor Hochul previously vetoed a bill that would have corrected the loophole, promising instead to address it during the budget process.

 

Collins Correctional was placed on lockdown yesterday after an incident earlier in the morning. The decision was made after an inmate was found attempting to discard contraband, which resulted in the use of force and the recovery of two cellphones. One officer sustained minor injuries, no prisoners were hurt. The state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision said the facility would remain on lockdown for a full facility frisk.

 

An Illinois man is facing several charges after entering the Charles R. Drew magnet school and assaulting a staff member on Tuesday. The school serves children in grades 3 through 8. Police say the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Shane Cronin, entered the school through the Buffalo Science Museum and approached a student. The school’s assistant principal intervened and was punched and shoved into a wall by Cronin. Police later found him hiding in the museum and arrested him without incident. Cronin’s charged with one count of Burglary in the Second Degree and one count of assault in the third-degree, among other things.

 

The trial of a Fairview, New Jersey man charged with the attempted murder of famous author Salman Rushdie is scheduled to continue today.   Prosecutors allege Hadi Matar stabbed Rushdie numerous times as he was about to speak in front of a live audience at an event in Western New York in 2022. A number of people who were there for the event are expected to testify at this trial. In a jailhouse interview after the attack Matar said he doesn’t think Rushdie is a very good person. Rushdie spent years in hiding after the leader of Iran put a bounty on his head in 1989 with Iran’s leader calling a novel of his an insult to Islam.

 

Two of the biggest names in country music are coming to Western New York this year. George Strait and Chris Stapleton are scheduled to perform at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park on Saturday, June 14th. Strait trails only The Beatles and Elvis when it comes to having the most gold and platinum albums in music history. Stapleton also has earned multiple Grammy Awards during his career.   Seats for the show go on sale next Friday and they can be purchased online.

 

The Down Syndrome Parent Support Group has scheduled their dine-out fundraiser for Wednesday, February 19^th at the Miss Batavia Diner. Mark you calendar, and join them from 4pm until 9pm to show your support.

 

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) will offer free rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets. To receive the vaccination, all animals must be at least 3 months old. It is important for all animals to be leashed, crated, and kept under control during the clinics. So you can plan ahead, the next drive-thru clinic is scheduled for Thursday, May 15^th from 4pm to 6:30pm at the Genesee County Fairgrounds. If you’d like additional information, please call 585-344-2580 (ext. 5555).

 

The cost of breakfast is skyrocketing; staples like eggs, orange juice and coffee are hurting customers’ wallets. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, egg prices were up over 50% year over year in January. They’re up over 7% month over month. Drinks like orange juice jumped 7.7% over the last year, and coffee is up just over 3%.

 

 

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for the entire region. Although they’re not predicting a high amount of snow, driving could become hazardous, as the snow becomes a little steadier after 4 this afternoon. Slightly higher amounts of snow are expected in Orleans and Niagara Counties. Periods of snow, sleet or freezing rain tonight will result in slippery roads and limited visibilities.

 

An investigation by City of Batavia firefighters has determined that the cause of a three-alarm fire at 20 Howard Street last November could not be determined. Upon arrival to the scene, firefighters determined the best approach to the blaze was to protect nearby structures. Crews remained for roughly 12 hours on the first day, and continued their work off and on for the next four days.

 

36-year-old Charles Phillip Stevens of Batavia has been arrested by Genesee County Sheriffs during a traffic stop. He’s charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance. It’s alleged that Stevens was in possession of Naloxone and cocaine. He was released with an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in Batavia Town Court on Tuesday, February 25^th.

 

If you commute into Rochester, you’ll be glad to hear that Rochester Mayor Malik Evans says the city isn’t being affected by the current shortage of rock salt. Evans says the city has enough salt available right now to keep the roads safe for drivers and that there are backup plans in place if supplies run low. American Rock Salt is the region’s main provider and says the shortage is because of increased demand. The company is working to address the issue by trying to quickly produce more salt.

 

An Amherst Central High School teacher is among seven men arrested as part of an undercover operation targeting online predators. Police in Fairfax, Virginia said the individuals, including 45-year-old Geoffrey Testa of Amherst, arrived in Fairfax County intending to commit sexual acts with minors but were met by detectives. Testa’s been charged with four counts of solicitation of a minor and one count of production of child sexual abuse material. He’s currently being held at the Erie County Correctional Facility.

 

An Amherst woman missing since Saturday night was found dead. Yesterday morning, police said 29-year-old Leah Bellitto’s body was found by a resident walking along Dodge Road. There is no indication that foul play was involved. The cause of death remains under investigation.

 

The Buffalo Bills make a change to their coaching staff by hiring a brand-new special teams coordinator. The AFC East champions have picked former interim Carolina Panthers head coach Chris Tabor to fill that position. He replaces Matthew Smiley, who was fired by the Bills last week. Tabor has 16 seasons of experience as an assistant coach and previously worked with the Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears.

 

 

A 22-year-old Batavia man has died in what state police describe as a tragic snowmobile accident. The crash was reported just before 3:00am on Fourth Lake off Route 28 in Herkimer County. Initial investigation indicates Spencer Schmidt was among five friends riding together and died at the scene. The crash could have involved a disabled, unoccupied snowmobile registered to Eric Butler, which had been left on the lake. Evidence also suggested that Schmidt and four friends, Cole Phelps, Carl Stephens, Joshua Boyle and Zachary Dusky, all 26-years-old, collided with one another and/or the stationary snowmobile. Alcohol and drugs do not appear to have been a factor and there was no indication of criminality. The investigation by State Police continues today.

 

A Texas man has been extradited to Lockport following an investigation suggested that he coerced a minor into sex last August. State Police say 22-year-old Javier Vasquez was arrested for six counts of rape and criminal sex acts, along with promoting a sexual performance by a child and criminal obstruction of breathing. It’s alleged that in August 2024, Vasquez coerced a girl under the age of 17 using drugs, into sexual relations. He was indicted on the multiple felony charges in Niagara County and remanded to Niagara County Jail.

 

Work is underway to celebrate and remember the past two centuries of the Erie Canal. The Erie County Historical Commission has been working to prepare for the year ahead, all leading up to a grand finale celebration to mark the exact 200^th anniversary of the canal’s completion. Organizers said this is all just the beginning as the nation as a whole prepares to honor America’s 250^th birthday. For more information on events at the Erie Canal, visit https://eriecanalway.org/explore/events

 

Congressman Joe Morelle is criticizing some of the executive orders issued by President Trump. Morelle, a Democrat who represents the 25th District, says that Mr. Trump isn’t focused on fulfilling his campaign promises but is instead handing down unconstitutional orders. He went on to say that he and fellow Democrats are willing to work with Republicans on issues like inflation, public safety and border security. However, he wants those problems solved legally.

 

A ten-year-old girl from the Tonawanda Reservation is being featured on the cover of a special edition of Sports Illustrated. Honor Smoke, a fifth grader at Akron Elementary School, has made waves competing in the typically male dominated sport of wrestling.   She is now gracing the cover of the first-ever Sports Re-Illustrated, which tells the stories of young female athletes from around the country. Smoke is the youngest athlete ever to appear on a Sports Illustrated promotional cover.

 

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer says community health centers are being caught in the middle of a fight involving a federal funding freeze.   Schumer noted that local health centers can’t operate under such uncertainty and that the health of families across the state is at risk. Community health centers rely on federal funding and many of them across the country have laid off staff. Schumer’s calling on the Department of Health and Human Services to help them secure needed money.

 

Three Western New York communities are getting state funding for downtown revitalization projects. Canandaigua, Phelps and Brockport were all picked as the winners of the Finger Lakes Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward Program. Canandaigua will receive $10 million while Brockport and Phelps are getting $4.5 million bucks each. It’ll be up to each community to decide how the money is spent.

 

Once again, the Rochester Red Wings are offering a 50 degree guarantee to their fans. General Manager Dan Mason says if the temperature doesn’t reach 50 degrees on Opening Day at Innovative Field, fans in attendance can use that ticket for any other home game during the season.   The Red Wings play their first home contest on April 1st against the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs. Seats are still available and can be purchased online.

 

The Batavia City School District is now accepting registration applications for universal pre-kindergarten and kindergarten programs for the 2025-26 school year. For more information, call 585-343-2480 or visit bataviacsd.org/registration. The deadline to register is May 1^st.

 

 

 

56-year-old Kenneth Muckle of Batavia has been arrested. He’s charged with petit larceny and conspiracy. It’s alleged Muckle stole merchandise from a store on Veteran’s Memorial Drive. He was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to return to Batavia Town Court on February 18^th.

 

A Tonawanda man has been convicted of possession of child pornography. 62-year-old Neil Stuckey will serve 24 months in prison and has also been ordered to pay $12,000 in restitution to four victims in this case. Initial investigation revealed approximately 600 images and 200 videos that he had uploaded to the Microsoft Bing server.

 

Tax season is underway, and New Yorkers are being reminded they can file their returns for free. Thanks to the Direct File program, both state and federal returns can be sent in online at no cost. It’s estimated that more than 3 million people will either use their Smartphone or laptop computer to take advantage of this offer. For more information head to tax.ny.gov. Another option, the Richmond Memorial Library is once again partnering with volunteers from the New York State Department of Tax and Finance to offer income-eligible citizens assistance with filing their taxes online this tax season. The next session will be offered this Thursday, February 13^th. For more information or to make an appointment, please call 585-343-9550, Extension 3. You can also find the library online at batavialibrary.org. The deadline for sending in returns is April 15th.

 

The nine suspects accused of being involved in welfare fraud schemes in Orleans County are due in court this week. The individuals are expected to face a judge tomorrow following an investigation into the theft of public funds. The suspects allegedly filed false information in order to get thousands of dollars in benefits assistance they weren’t entitled to. They were all issued appearance tickets following their arrest and released.

 

Western New York motorists are seeing consistent prices when they head to the gas station to fill up their vehicles. According to Triple A this afternoon, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel right now is sitting at $3.14. The state average is slightly higher at $3.18. In Batavia, the average also calculates out to $3.18; the same as it was a week ago, a penny higher than it was a month ago, and six cents more than it was a year ago today.

 

Another wave of the flu has hit the nation. Health officials say the rapid rise in cases is causing doctor visits for flu related symptoms to reach their highest in 15 years. Visits to providers for respiratory illnesses were close to 8% last week, which is the highest since the swine flu outbreak, in 2009. The CDC estimates there have been 24 million cases of the flu this season causing more than 300,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths. Recent data shows that 45 states remain in the “high” or “very high” category for flu activity. For the week ending February 1, leading the pack regionally, was Monroe County with 1,660 confirmed cases of the flu; followed by Erie County with 741; Niagara County reported 159; Livingston County had 148 and Genesee logged 56 confirmed cases of the flu.

 

The Buffalo Bills are parting ways with special teams coordinator Matthew Smiley. The move comes a little more than a week after head coach Sean McDermott said he planned to keep Smiley on his staff for the 2025 season. He joined the team back in 2017 as the assistant special teams coach before eventually being promoted to special teams coordinator ahead of the 2022 season.

 

In case you missed it over the weekend, College Football Hall of Famer and former NFL coach and player Dick Jauron has died. Jauron gained nearly 3,000 yards rushing in three seasons at Yale, but was converted to defensive back after the Detroit Lions picked him in the fourth round of 1973 NFL Draft. Jauron was the top punt returner in the league in his second season and was selected to the Pro Bowl. After a combined eight seasons in the league with the Lions and Cincinnati Bengals, Jauron began a 28-year coaching career in 1985. He had head coaching stints with the Chicago Bears and Buffalo Bills, and his greatest success came in 2001 when he led the Bears to a 13-and-three record and NFC Central Division title. Jauron had a connection with both Super Bowl 59 teams, having served as the Philadelphia Eagles’ senior assistant and defensive backs coach in 2010 under current Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid. Jauron’s daughter posted on Facebook that he died shortly after being diagnosed with brain cancer. He was 74.

 

Egg prices are on the rise. With costs soaring, many people are looking into purchasing backyard chickens as an alternative way to get their eggs. A bird flu outbreak has increased egg prices across the country, including here in Western New York. Prices have gone up by more than 50% in cities nationwide. Now some people are taking matters into their own hands, wanting to raise chickens in their backyard. However, it may not be as easy to take care of them as you might think. And depending on where you live, there are also rules and regulations around owning chickens, so it’s important to do your research beforehand.

 

 

An investigation is still underway into what caused a fire that took the life of a 10-year-old boy. Crews were called to battle the blaze at an apartment building in the area of East Main Street and Vine Street in Batavia yesterday and arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from that structure. Firefighters spotted the 10-year-old as well as his four-year-old and 12-year-old siblings who were critically injured. Two police officers and a firefighter also ended up getting hurt but are going to be OK.

 

The Genesee County Sheriffs have arrested a man on multiple bench warrants, stemming back to 2021. 34-year-old Marc Christopher James Cook, Sr. of Alabama was arrested for criminal possession of a weapon, bail jumping and criminal possession of a controlled substance from the Alabama Town Court; similar warrants were filed against Cook in Batavia City Court, and Genesee County also issued an arrest warrant for violation of the family court act. Cook was arraigned at Genesee County CAP Court and is now held without bail at the Genesee County Jail. He will reappear at the respective courts at a later date.

 

53-year-old Gregory Brooks of Rochester has been convicted of receipt of child pornography. Brooks had secretly placed a video camera in a bathroom where he knew a minor victim showered. He positioned the camera to capture naked videos of the youngster entering and exiting the shower. Brooks received and stored the videos on his cell phone. He was sentenced to serve 96 months in prison. ALSO: 39-year-old Timothy Taylor of Rochester has pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Between July 2020 and August 2021, Taylor, who owned Brilliance Software, LLC in Greece, filed fraudulent applications for Payroll Protection Program loans, which were designed to help small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Taylor stated that he had 87 employees and a monthly payroll of $607,000 when, in fact, he had one employee who was paid $10,000 for the entire year.   Taylor faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine when he is sentenced on June 11, 2025.

 

The Kendall Central School District is mourning the death of a student following a tragic accident. On Wednesday, 16-year-old Josh Peters was driving on Roosevelt Highway in Hamlin when he went off the road and struck a utility pole. Peters was the only person in the vehicle at the time and passed away at the scene. The district is offering its support to fellow students and staff during this difficult time. Police are looking into whether speed played a role in the crash.

 

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney says she’s made the decision to temporarily close down her offices in the 24th Congressional District. The Republican says there have been three separate incidents lately where her staff were targeted by intimidation or threats of violence. Tenney says she’s appalled by what’s happened and is asking folks to express their First Amendment rights in a compassionate and peaceful way.

 

A Lackawanna judge is being forced to resign again. Louis Violanti first resigned in 2013 after he presided over a phony judicial proceeding to get a friend’s traffic ticket dismissed. Last March, Lackawanna’s mayor reappointed him as judge for a new six-year term. Violanti resigned again on January 23rd, agreeing with state officials to never return to the bench.

 

Organizers of the New York State Blues Festival have released the lineup for this year’s event. The headline act for that festival, which runs June 12th through 14th at the New York State Fairgrounds’ Chevy Court, is the Warren Haynes Band. Other artists that’ll take the stage include Kat Riggins and Her Blues Revival, The Ripcords and Ruthie Foster. Additional details on the free event can be found at nysbluesfest.com.

 

The Buffalo Bills are doing their part to help fund modified girls flag football programs in the region. Several schools have received money from the NFL franchise including Canisteo-Greenwood, Loretta Johnson Middle School, Our Lady of Mercy and also Rochester Prep.   The Buffalo Bills Foundation and Ralph C. Wilson Junior Foundation are committed to spending $260,000 over the next three years on these programs. Games could begin as early as this spring.

 

The Down Syndrome Parent Support Group has scheduled their dine-out fundraiser for Wednesday, February 19^th at the Miss Batavia Diner. Mark you calendar, and join them from 4pm until 9pm to show your support.

 

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) will offer free rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets. To receive the vaccination, all animals must be at least 3 months old. It is important for all animals to be leashed, crated, and kept under control during the clinics. So you can plan ahead, the next drive-thru clinic is scheduled for Thursday, May 15^th from 4pm to 6:30pm at the Genesee County Fairgrounds. If you’d like additional information, please call 585-344-2580 (ext. 5555).

City of Batavia Police and members of the Fire Department are investigating a structure fire that occurred a little after midnight early this morning at 3 Vine Street. A downstairs tenant reported the fire and when emergency responders arrived, observed flames coming from the second story window. Initial attempts by police to enter were unsuccessful due to smoke and heat. Firefighters then arrived and rescued the only occupants at the time of the blaze, three children, ages 4, 10 and 12. All three are siblings and were transported to UMMC and then to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. This afternoon, the 10-year-old boy succumbed to his injuries and is deceased. The other children are listed in critical condition. City Police are working with the Batavia School District to assist the family and members of the school community.

The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for the entire GLOW region until 10:00am tomorrow morning. West winds from 20 to 30 mph with gusts of up to 50 mph are predicted. Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects; tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. Use extra caution when driving.

 

Officials at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center are issuing a warning to patients. Websites have been selling fake cancer drugs to people who are looking to save money on their treatment but instead end up getting dangerous medications. They also run the risk of purchasing a phony drug that might make their doctor think they’re not responding to their current care plan. Anyone who has questions or concerns can reach out to Roswell Park directly.

 

Governor Hochul is reacting to the latest developments in the Robert Brooks case.   Brooks was an inmate at Marcy Correctional Facility who was brutally beaten by corrections officers back in December during a disturbing incident caught on camera. Brooks was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment but later died and his death has been ruled a homicide. Brooks’ father, Robert Ricks says he wants to make sure the same thing doesn’t happen to other families. The governor says it’s time for the legal process to move forward and for everyone involved in Brooks’ death to be held accountable for their actions.

 

Police believe speed may have been a factor in crash that took the life of 16-year-old Josh Peters, a student at Kendall Central School. According to authorities, the teen was traveling on Roosevelt Highway in Hamlin yesterday when the vehicle went off the road, hit a utility pole and knocked down power lines. Peters was pronounced dead just after first responders got to the scene. No other injuries were reported.

 

In just a few months, local travelers are going to have another airline carrier to choose from when it comes time to book a trip. Breeze Airways is planning to arrive at Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport this spring. The company, known for its discount fares, is going to offer flights to Charleston, South Carolina, Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, New Orleans, Louisiana and Orlando, Florida. For schedules and to book a flight, head to flybreeze.com.

 

The weather is lousy right now but if you’re looking forward to warmer days and looking for a job may want to consider contacting Six Flags Darien Lake.   The theme park is hoping to hire 1,000 people ahead of opening day, which is currently set for May 16th.   There are a variety of positions that need to be filled including ride operators, lifeguards, food and beverage associates and also park services attendants. Multiple hiring events are happening this month, and additional details are available at jobs.sixflags.com.

 

With less than three months until the federal REAL ID Act becomes enforceable, the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging state residents to make sure they are prepared. Beginning on May 7, 2025, anyone going through airport security to fly domestically or attempting to enter secure federal facilities will be required to have a REAL ID or another form of compliant identification such as an Enhanced ID or Passport. For those who need to upgrade their state-issued ID before May 7, the DMV is strongly encouraging them to act as soon as possible.

 

 

 

Governor Kathy Hochul is highlighting the trade relationship with New York and bordering Canada. Yesterday, Hochul sat down with Canadian Consul General Tom Clark. Hochul says she’s focused on affordability for New Yorkers and that relationships with Canada will affect that depending on what happens out of Washington. Her meeting comes after tariffs against Canada and Canadian tariffs against the U.S. were put on hold for a month after President Trump says Canada promised to increase border security.

 

The latest data shows there’s been yet another surge in flu cases across Western New York. During the week ending January 25th, the area with the highest number of infections was Monroe County with 1,415. That was followed by Erie County with 686; Niagara County reported 134; Livingston County, 94 and Genesee logged 46 cases of the flu. Orleans and Wyoming Counties each had 29. Since flu season began back in October, there have been more than 230,000 confirmed flu cases in the Empire State.

 

A retired Buffalo police officer has admitted to shooting a teen last year. Officials say 67-year-old Antonio Roman shot a 14-year-old boy in the leg during a confrontation with a group that he suspected was stealing from vehicles outside the Marine Drive Apartments. After the shooting, the group drove away in a vehicle that had been stolen in Amherst. The boy had to be taken Oishei Children’s Hospital, where he underwent surgery. Roman pleaded guilty to second-degree assault and first-degree reckless endangerment. He faces a maximum of seven years in prison when he is sentenced in May.

 

The death of Robert Brooks at the Marcy Correctional Facility has now been ruled a homicide. A grand jury will be reviewing evidence on this case February 10th. Body camera footage showed Brooks being brutally attacked by several prison employees back in December. He was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment but couldn’t be saved.   Onondaga County DA William Fitzpatrick was named special prosecutor after the Attorney General’s office recused itself.

 

A Jamestown woman has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for sex trafficking of a minor. Officials say between August and October 2020, 27-year-old Jasmin Osteen conspired with others to coerce two 17-year-olds to engage in commercial sex acts. She would then transport the minor victims to a hotel in Buffalo, and reached out to various clients who engaged in commercial sex acts with the victims. Osteen arranged the commercial sex acts on Facebook and received most of the proceeds.

 

The Sabres closed out an undefeated home stand with a 3-2 against the Columbus BlueJackets last night. Alex Tuch led the way with two goals and an assist in the victory. Bowen Byram chipped in with a goal and an assist of his own. The Sabres have now won four-straight games, which is the team’s best since a five-game run in January 2023. Buffalo hits the ice again on Saturday when they play the Predators in Nashville.

 

The Crossroads House 29^th Annual “Strike UP Some Fun for Crossroads” Betty Ellison Memorial Bowling Event is coming up this weekend, Friday and Saturday, February 7^th and 8^th at Mancuso Bowling Center. A DJ will be on hand for the evening shifts, and there will be contests throughout. For more information, please call 585-343-3892 or get registered at www.crossroadshouse.com/events.

 

The Batavia City School District is now accepting registration applications for universal pre-kindergarten and kindergarten programs for the 2025-26 school year. For more information, call 585-343-2480 or visit bataviacsd.org/registration. The deadline to register is May 1^st.

 

An investigation is underway into what caused a fire in Corfu that left a firefighter injured. The blaze happened yesterday on Main Street. Crews worked quickly to try and contain the smoke and flames and the firefighter suffered an ankle injury after falling off a six-foot ladder. No one was inside the house at the time of the fire.

 

The Rochester Police Department is trying out new technology aimed at stopping the growing number of car break-ins. Leaders say license plate readers will trigger a response for any report of a vehicle that’s stolen by reporting it to officers. The vehicle models targeted most in recent months are KIAs and Hyundais because their security systems make them easier to take.   These crimes been prominent in lower income neighborhoods such as the Park Avenue and South Wedge areas.

 

There’s still a few weeks left to go in winter, and American Rock Salt is dealing with a shortage of the salt used to keep motorists safe. The company is opening up its reserve stockpiles and purchasing new equipment to boost mining efforts. Several towns in the region and across New York are running low on salt, and American Rock Salt says that’s due to high demand. Some communities have had to cut back on using road salt or tapped into their emergency supplies.

 

A Fairview, New Jersey man is set to go on trial today for the attempted murder of an author during a live event.   Back in 2022, author Salman Rushdie was set to deliver a lecture before a live audience in western New York when prosecutors allege Hadi Matar charged him with a knife, stabbing him numerous times. Matar told the New York post in a jailhouse interview after the attack he doesn’t think Rushdie is a very good person and says he is someone who attacked Islam. Rushdie spent years in hiding after the leader of Iran put a bounty on his head in 1989 with Iran’s leader calling a novel of his an insult to Islam.

 

There’s a new law in New York State to help further protect doctors from legal trouble for prescribing abortion medication out of state.   Governor Hochul signed legislation today that allows doctors to request pharmacies to put their health practice on the prescription label rather than the doctor’s name when prescribing FDA-approved abortion medication. This builds upon previous passed legislation that helps protect New York doctors from states with strict abortion laws that may attempt to impose criminal penalties on New York physicians.   Just last week, a jury in Louisiana indicted a doctor from New Paltz in Ulster County for approving an abortion medication for a minor in Louisiana.

 

A Dunkirk man is facing time in prison after pleading guilty to labor trafficking and kidnapping charges. Prosecutors say 33-year-old Augusto Mateo Francisco, a legal permanent resident from Guatemala, provided work and housing to Guatemalan migrants he brought to the Dunkirk area. Francisco would then take a cut of the migrants’ earnings and threaten them if he did not receive the money they “owed” to him. Prosecutors said he also repeatedly raped a 16-year-old Guatemalan girl beginning in March 2019. He then abducted her in May 2020 and held her for nearly two weeks before she was rescued by police. Francisco faces a maximum of life in prison and is scheduled to be sentenced in May.

 

The Super Bowl is coming up Sunday, and law enforcement statewide will be working to ensure people get to and from their big game parties safely. The annual Super Bowl week crackdown on dangerous and impaired drivers is underway and it runs through Sunday. During last year’s campaign, a total of almost 8,400 tickets were issued. Anyone who spots suspicious activity on the roads is asked to dial 911 immediately.

 

The Buffalo Sabres are hoping to wrap up their latest home stand tonight with a fourth straight victory. The Sabres are hosting the Columbus Blue Jackets at the KeyBank Center. Buffalo last played on Sunday when they fought off a late rally and defeated the New Jersey Devils by a final score of four to three. Face-off for their contest is scheduled for 7:00.

 

The Richmond Memorial Library is once again partnering with volunteers from the New York State Department of Tax and Finance to offer income-eligible citizens assistance with filing their taxes online this tax season. Tax Department employees will help by going through your income tax returns, step-by-step, as you complete and then e-file your tax return for free. The first session will be offered this Thursday, February 6^th. For more information or to make an appointment, please call 585-343-9550, Extension 3. You can also find the library online at batavialibrary.org.

 

 

Governor Kathy Hochul says New Yorkers will pay an economic price for the tariffs imposed Saturday on Canadian goods by President Trump. The governor says Canada and New York State are part of a single region and have long been economically intertwined, calling it a “synergy.” She tells MSNBC it is “critically important” for New York farmers and manufacturers to be able to get goods across the border with ease. Hochul also says it is not surprising that Canada quickly imposed retaliatory tariffs on imports coming from the US. She adds that if the aim of the President’s tariffs is to stop the flow of fentanyl into the US, New York is already working to do that.

 

The Batavia City School District is now accepting registration applications for universal pre-kindergarten and kindergarten programs for the 2025-26 school year. For more information, call 585-343-2480 or visit bataviacsd.org/registration. The deadline to register is May 1^st.

 

46-year-old Richard Burdick of Batavia has been arrested by the Genesee County Sheriffs. He’s charged with criminal possession of a narcotic drug with intent to sell, criminal possession of a controlled substance, and aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle. It’s alleged that Burdick was in possession of approximately 62 grams of cocaine during a traffic stop. He was held at the Genesee County Jail pending arraignment.

 

Western New York drivers are seeing steady prices at the pump when it comes time to fill up their vehicles. Triple A says the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel right now is $3.10. The state average for gas is sitting at $3.17 per gallon. In Batavia, the average figures out to $3.18 a gallon, which is down two cents from a month ago and is seven cents lower than it was a year ago today.

 

A teacher at Amherst Central High School was arrested on Friday for sex crimes against children. New York State Police said 45-year-old Geoffrey Testa was arrested on a warrant for multiple felony child exploitation charges out of Fairfax, Virginia. He was processed and taken to Erie County Holding Center on the arrest warrant awaiting extradition. Testa’s also been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation. School officials are working with State Police on this incident.

 

Folks interested in a career with the United States Postal Service should check out two hiring events happening this week.   The first job fair is Wednesday at the USPS Rochester Processing and Distribution Center on Jefferson Road from 9:30am until 12:30pm. The second event is taking place Thursday from 9:00am until noon in Canandaigua at the post office next to the Wegmans on Eastern Boulevard. There are multiple positions available including carrier assistants and rural carrier associates.

 

Fans of the Buffalo Zoo will be happy to hear that the zoo received a $9 million grant from the state on Friday. The funding will be used to support projects aimed at improving safety, animal welfare and the overall enhancement of the visitor experience. Lisa Smith, the President and CEO of the Buffalo Zoo, said the funding would help them preserve the historic structures while modernizing their facilities to meet the highest standards of animal care and visitor experience.

 

The Buffalo Sabres are now on a three-game winning streak after picking up a victory on home ice. Jason Zucker, Tage Thompson and JJ Peterka each had a goal as the Sabres held on to beat the New Jersey Devils four-to-three at KeyBank Center yesterday. Buffalo’s goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen faced a total of 24 shots in the contest and stopped 21 of them. The next game for the Sabres is at home tomorrow night against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Face-off is at 7:00.

 

 

20-year-old Noah Magee of Brockport will spend up to 15 years in state prison, the maximum for second-degree manslaughter. He was sentenced yesterday in connection to the death of 24-year-old Roger Kingdollar III. Kingdollar was riding a dirt bike in Barre when Magee crossed the opposite lane and hit him, something that Magee maintained was an accident following his attempt to make too wide a turn at an intersection. Magee was also sentenced to up to seven years in prison for leaving the scene of a fatal accident, 30 days in county jail for reckless driving, and 15 days in jail for failure to keep right. Those sentences will be served concurrently with the longer sentence for manslaughter.

 

A Buffalo man will spend the next 15 years to life in prison for a fatal shooting in 2022. 45-year-old Martinko Jamel Caver was sentenced Thursday in Erie County Court. He pleaded guilty to one count of Murder in the Second Degree this past November. Investigators say Caver shot 33-year-old George McGee, III on Glenwood Avenue in Buffalo on September 5, 2022. McGee was taken to the hospital by ambulance where he was pronounced dead.

 

National Grid is encouraging their customers to be vigilant and protect their personal information. This, in light of multiple, active email and telephone scam campaigns occurring throughout our region. Customers and law enforcement agencies have reported receiving contact from someone representing National Grid and threatening service disconnection if immediate payment is not made. To learn more about this scam and ways to protect yourself from being ripped off, visit ngrid.com/scam.

 

Evans Bank is announcing layoffs to 64 of their employees due to the pending merger with NBT Bank. A bank spokesperson told WKBW that the layoffs would occur due to duplication of positions when the merger closes. The number impacted could be reduced however, as additional employees could be matched with NBT job openings. Employees impacted will be offered severance benefits and outplacement assistance.

 

With less than four months until the federal REAL ID Act becomes enforceable, the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging state residents to make sure they are prepared. Beginning on May 7, 2025, anyone going through airport security to fly domestically or attempting to enter secure federal facilities will be required to have a REAL ID or another form of compliant identification such as an Enhanced ID or Passport. For those who need to upgrade their state-issued ID before May 7, the DMV is strongly encouraging them to act as soon as possible.

 

The New York State United Teachers Union convened in Rochester on Friday to deliberate on the state’s initiative to prohibit smartphone usage in K-12 schools. The state has proposed allocating more than $13 million to enforce a ban on smartphones from the start to the end of the school day, aiming to establish distraction-free learning environments. The union’s conference invited representatives from local school districts to explore the effects of cell phones and social media on students. Attendees also discussed successful policies implemented by other schools and districts.

 

New York State Fair organizers have announced the first of what will be many concerts this summer.   Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Cheap Trick will perform at Chevy Court on Thursday, August 21st at 6:00pm. The band is known for several smash hits including “The Flame,” “Dream Police,” and “I Want You To Want Me.”   Their performance is free as part of daily admission to the fair, which is $8 for adults for the second straight year.   The fair starts August 20th and ends September 4th.

 

The Buffalo Sabres will again be on home ice Friday night as they look to earn a second straight win. The Sabres are hosting the Nashville Predators at KeyBank Center Buffalo last played Tuesday when they dominated the Boston Bruins by a final score of 7 to 2 and improved their point total on the season to 43. Face-off for their contest is scheduled for 7:00 and the game airs nationally on NHL Network.

 

A former Brockport JV basketball coach has admitted to having sexual contact with a student-athlete. Anne Collins pleaded guilty to engaging in inappropriate conduct with the then 15-year-old victim between March and August of 2018. At the time of her arrest last year, Collins had begun a career as a social worker and stopped seeing children in that position after being charged. She’s expected to be sentenced in April.

 

The Crossroads House 29^th Annual “Strike UP Some Fun for Crossroads” Betty Ellison Memorial Bowling Event is coming up next Friday and Saturday, February 7^th and 8^th at Mancuso Bowling Center. A DJ will be on hand for the evening shifts, and there will be contests throughout. For more information, please call 585-343-3892 or get registered at www.crossroadshouse.com/events.

 

A Lockport man has admitted to selling fentanyl that resulted in the death of a toddler in 2022. Authorities say 23-year-old Javonte Holloway sold large quantities of heroin, fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl in the Lockport area, usually in form of counterfeit hydrocodone pills known as “M-30s”. Officials say a Lockport couple with a small child purchased the pills between July and December 2022. In December 2022, the toddler was found unresponsive in a bedroom surrounded by fentanyl residue. Holloway pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl. He’ll be sentenced on June 10th.

 

Three people have been arrested following a traffic stop in the Town of Pembroke. Following investigation, sheriff’s found a quantity of cocaine in the vehicle. The driver of the car was 41-year-old Teresa Hillin of Batavia; the two passengers were identified as 46-year-old Peter Dercqu of Lyndonville and 43-year-old Steven Hadden from Pembroke. Charges include criminal possession of a controlled substance, operating a vehicle without insurance and operating a vehicle without an inspection certificate. All were released on appearance tickets and are scheduled to appear in the Town of Pembroke Court at a later date.

 

According to the State Department of Labor, the unemployment rate in Genesee County was 3.4% in December, which is down from 4% in December 2023. Orleans County reported a 4% unemployment rate last month; Wyoming County had 4.3% of their population unemployed, as did Niagara County. Nationally, the unemployment rate was at 3.8% (compared to 3.5% a year earlier) while the statewide rate was 4.1%, compared to 4.4% a year earlier.

 

Rochester Regional Health is providing some important training to EMT’s around the area. Those first responders are learning how to deal with childbirth emergencies they may encounter while out on a call. These sessions are taught by OBGYN experts from Rochester Regional Health, and data shows pre-hospital deliveries happen in one out of every 500 pregnant patients.   Officials say while those instances are rare, there’s no such thing as too much training.

 

The Canadian border patrol caught a person jumping off a moving train in Fort Erie, which is just across Buffalo’s U.S.-Canada border. Authorities say the person was entering Canada from the United States and was intercepted by Canadian Border Services and Canadian police. They were deemed inadmissible to enter Canada and were returned to the United States. Canadian authorities said the intercept was part of Project Disrupt and Deter, which was launched in December and aimed at monitoring “vulnerable” areas along the International Railway Bridge.

 

Governor Hochul is rolling out her plan to make college more affordable for some Empire State residents. In Syracuse yesterday, Hochul discussed a proposal to provide free community college tuition for students between the ages of 25 and 55 who are pursuing associate’s degrees in high demanding fields. The plan would cover not only tuition fees but also books and supplies.   Some of those high demanding fields include advanced manufacturing, health care, education and engineering.

 

Buffalo Pro Soccer said they’re considering three sites for their new stadium, including one in Downtown Buffalo. The group has identified the parking lots for the former Buffalo News building and HSBC Atrium along Scott Street as its preferred site. Buffalo Pro Soccer President Peter Marlette, Jr. released a statement, saying that Downtown Buffalo is an ideal location for a professional soccer stadium, but that they have not yet made a final decision on the club’s future home. He also said that one key consideration is that building downtown would require public investment, whereas other potential locations could be developed primarily through private funding.

 

The Richmond Memorial Library is once again partnering with volunteers from the New York State Department of Tax and Finance to offer income-eligible citizens assistance with filing their taxes online this tax season. Tax Department employees will help by going through your income tax returns, step-by-step, as you complete and then e-file your tax return for free. The first session will be offered next Thursday, February 6^th. For more information or to make an appointment, please call 585-343-9550, Extension 3. You can also find the library online at batavialibrary.org.

 

32-year-old Christian Poole of Medina has been arrested. He’s charged with possession of child pornography. According to the criminal complaint, Poole accessed a chat room on the Telegram app, where he observed and downloaded multiple child pornography photos and videos. A search of his cell phone revealed hundreds more images and videos, some of which depicted violence against children. Poole was held pending a detention hearing, which was scheduled for today. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

 

Buffalo native Trini Ross is preparing to leave her position as U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York after four years. With the arrival of a new presidential administration, Ross is preparing to step down from the position in which she oversaw the prosecution of any federal case within the 17 counties of Western New York. She was the first Black woman to hold the position.

 

The latest data from the state shows the number of flu cases continue to grow in the region. During the week ending January 18th, the spot with the highest infection total was Monroe County with 1060. Erie County reported 649 cases of the flu; followed by Niagara County with 118 and Livingston County with 82. Genesee and Wyoming Counties identified 35 and 19 cases of the flu, respectively. Experts say the best way for people to reduce their risk of getting sick is to practice good hygiene and get a flu shot. For more information, visit a local pharmacist or go to vaccines.gov.

 

The National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook that includes Genesee, Orleans, Niagara, Monroe and Northern Erie Counties. West to northwesterly winds will gust up to 45 mph at times today into this evening. This could lead to a few downed tree limbs and isolated power outages.

 

Western New York Congressman Nick Langworthy met with ICE agents in Buffalo amid the crackdown on illegal immigration. During a news conference yesterday, Langworthy was adamant that agents are only going after criminals and suspected terrorists, saying they pose a security risk and need to be removed. He also criticized Governor Kathy Hochul and New York’s Green Light Law, saying it’s the biggest barrier to the enforcement of this mission and that it needs to be repealed.

 

Organizers of the Rochester Jazz Festival have announced some of the headliners for this year’s event. One of the main musical acts will feature an appearance by the legendary singer and songwriter Smokey Robinson. He’s scheduled to take the stage on opening night, which is Friday, June 20th.   Other artists scheduled to perform are Rickie Lee Jones, Thundercat and American roots band The Wood Brothers.   More details on the festival are available at rochesterjazz.com.

 

The Buffalo Sabres were on a roll during last night’s win over the Boston Bruins. Tage Thompson and JJ Peterka both scored hat tricks as the Sabres came back from an early deficit to beat the Bruins 7-2. Thompson and Peterka are the first teammates to record hat tricks in the same game for the Sabres since 2008. Buffalo returns to the ice on Friday when they host the Nashville Predators; the puck drops at 7:00.

 

 

20-year-old Malachi Nix of Tonawanda has been arrested in Batavia. He’s charged with burglary, criminal possession of a weapon, grand larceny, criminal mischief and conspiracy. It’s alleged that on May 27, 2024, Nix and another person broke into Barrett’s Batavia Marine and stole numerous firearms. Nix was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. He’s due back in court on February 15th.

 

The New York State Senate has passed nine bills aimed at making utilities more affordable. Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins says the legislation will expand flexible payment plans for consumers and demand transparency and rate setting processes. One measure would require social service districts to automatically re-enroll people in the low-income home energy assistance program, also known as HEAP.   The bills would need to be approved by the State Assembly before going to Governor Hochul.

 

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for areas of south of us from 6:00pm tonight through 6:00pm tomorrow. Snow is expected, with total accumulations from 4 to 8 inches. Winds could gust to 40 mph in the advisory area. Travel there may become difficult; with hazardous conditions impacting the Wednesday commutes.

 

State Attorney General Letitia James secured $450,000 from three companies that distribute eufy home security video cameras, for failing to secure customers’ private home security videos. The companies, Fantasia Trading LLC, Power Mobile Life LLC, and Smart Innovation, LLC distribute a line of video cameras, video doorbells, and video smart locks under the eufy brand. An investigation by the A.G.’s Office found that video streams from the cameras were not always securely encrypted and could be accessible to anyone with the relevant link without authentication. The settlement requires these companies to take steps to ensure stronger protections for customers’ data and pay $450,000 in penalties and costs.

 

Rochester Mayor Malik Evans is addressing the presence of immigration officials in this area. Evans said he was made aware of their appearance over the weekend and that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement doesn’t tell local governments about their activities. He’s now urging community organizations that work closely with immigrants to make sure all of them know their rights. President Trump has been cracking down on immigration nationwide since returning to office last week.

 

A convicted sex offender is going back to prison after kidnapping a 14-year-old girl in Rochester. Yesterday, a judge sentenced 48-year-old Kelvin Hunt to spend the next 25 years behind bars. Prosecutors say he abducted the child from a home on the city’s northeast side back in February 2024.   He then took the child to another address and sexually assaulted her. She was later released and Hunt ended up being arrested at a hotel in Gates.

 

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is continuing his push to lower egg prices for millions of Americans. Schumer was in Rochester yesterday where he pledged to do everything he can to limit the effect of bird flu that’s caused egg prices to surge. Schumer says he’s ready to work with Republicans to get this crisis under control and that more federal funding will be needed. Over 60 people have been infected with bird flu and one of them died.

 

Bills fans have begun donating to the Summit Center in honor of tight-end Dalton Kincaid after Sunday’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. The Summit Center, which Kincaid has been advocating for since 2023, provides programs for people with autism and other developmental disabilities. Donations began coming in after Kincaid dropped a pass on fourth-and-5 with two minutes left on the clock in the final quarter, ultimately ending the game for Buffalo. The Center said over 350 donors made a gift as of Monday morning. Mary Bennett, superintendent of Summit Academy, said not only is Kincaid an incredible athlete, but he has a big heart, and that was evident during the time he spent with their students.

 

The Richmond Memorial Library is once again partnering with volunteers from the New York State Department of Tax and Finance to offer income-eligible citizens assistance with filing their taxes online this tax season. Tax Department employees will help by going through your income tax returns, step-by-step, as you complete and then e-file your tax return for free. The first session will be offered on Thursday, February 6^th. For more information or to make an appointment, please call 585-343-9550, Extension 3. You can also find the library online at batavialibrary.org.

 

The State Environmental Facilities Corporation has approved more than $127 million in financial assistance for water infrastructure improvement for Western New York. Over $62 million will go to the Buffalo Sewer Authority for upgrades at the Bird Island Wastewater Treatment Plant. Erie County is receiving $56 million for improvements at the South Towns Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility, and the City of Lockport is receiving over $9 million for improvements to the Gulf Interceptor. A total of $273 million was approved for clean water projects statewide.

 

With less than four months until the federal REAL ID Act becomes enforceable, the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging New Yorkers to make sure they are prepared. Beginning on May 7, 2025, anyone going through airport security to fly domestically or attempting to enter secure federal facilities will be required to have a REAL ID or another form of compliant identification such as an Enhanced ID or Passport. For those who need to upgrade their state-issued ID before May 7, the DMV is strongly encouraging them to act now.

 

Landmarks across the city of Buffalo are showing their Bills pride ahead of Sunday’s AFC Championship Game. The Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority announced that the Peace Bridge will be lit in Bills colors until Sunday night, and overhead traffic gantry signs will display the Bills logo all through the weekend. In addition, whenever the Bills score, there will be a celebratory special effects light show conducted on the bridge. Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs kicks off at 6:30 p.m.

 

The Buffalo Bills are just 60 minutes of football away from the franchise’s first Super Bowl appearance in decades. The Bills are on the road this weekend to take on the two-time and defending Super Bowl champions the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium in the AFC title game. Buffalo and Kansas City battled earlier in the season and the Bills came away with a 30 to 21 victory. Kickoff for Sunday’s game is 6:30; you can catch the game on channel 4.

 

Crossroads House on Liberty Street, Batavia is hosting an evening of reflection, cocktails, dinner and dancing for staff, families and friends. The event will be held at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel Saturday afternoon starting at 5:00pm. Your attendance will help support their mission to provide the best end-of-life care possible. For more information, please call 585-343-3892.

 

 

Governor Kathy Hochul unveiled a plan this week to ban all cell phones in schools across the state. The goal is to create a distraction-free environment so kids can focus on learning. There are exceptions for students who need devices for medical reasons or to assist non-English language speakers. A number of New York school districts have already implemented cell phone bans, including the Lackawanna City School District, which has implemented a “no cell, bell to bell” policy.

 

Police say two people involved with two missing Buffalo girls found on Tuesday have been cleared of any wrongdoing. The girls, ages 12 and seven, were found safe at an apartment on Langfield Drive after they were reported missing on Monday night. Two people were brought in to speak with detectives, but police say they were “good Samaritans” who took the children in from the cold and contacted authorities after learning what had happened.

 

Attorney General Letitia James is announcing a $1 billion settlement with a shady lending network. James says 25 predatory lenders controlled by Yellowstone Capital targeted 1,100 small businesses across New York with excessive interest rates and punishing repayment terms. They included a food truck and caterer in Buffalo, a hair salon in Syracuse, a Long Island tailoring shop and City Bakery in Manhattan, which was forced to close after 30 years. Under the settlement, Jersey City-based Yellowstone will cancel $534 million in outstanding debts across the country and immediately pay 16-million to affected businesses.

 

A Dansville resident who was held captive by the Taliban for more than two years is back in the United States. Ryan Corbett arrived in San Antonio, Texas yesterday where he was greeted by his wife and three children. Corbett and another American were released as part of a prisoner exchange between the Taliban and U.S. that was made earlier this week. Corbett was detained in Afghanistan while he was in that country on business in 2022.

 

Organizers of the popular Lilac Festival in Rochester have announced plans for this year’s event. The 127th annual event is going to feature a farmer’s market, free walking tours and even a non-alcoholic bar. Opening day is scheduled for May 9th and the festival will run through May 18th. The event traditionally draws crowds of more than 500,000 people each year. For more details, head to roclilacfest.com.

 

Buffalo Bills fans are raising money for a charity backed by Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews. Bills’ fan Nicholas Howard set up a GoFundMe page for Breakthrough T1D, a type 1 diabetes research and advocacy non-profit supported by Andrews, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes as a child. The fundraiser was started after Andrews began receiving death threats and negative comments after he dropped a game tying two-point conversion in Sunday’s game. Bills’ fans answered the call, donating over $90,000 as of last night.

 

The Buffalo Sabres will be in Western Canada again tonight as they look to earn a second straight win. The Sabres are visiting the Calgary Flames at the Scotiabank Saddledome. Buffalo last played Tuesday when they beat the Vancouver Canucks by a final score of three to two and improved their point total this season to 41 which is still the lowest in the Eastern Conference.   Face-off tonight is set for 9:00.

 

 

27-year-old Brevin Mast of Batavia has been arrested. He’s charged with criminal possession of a weapon and menacing. It’s alleged that Mast threatened two people during an incident on Trumbull Parkway. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and remanded to Genesee County Jail; Mast is due back in court at a later date.

 

37-year-old Michael Difalco of Batavia was arrested following a disturbance on South Main Street. It’s alleged he violated an order of protection. Difalco then attempted to flee on foot, when officers attempted to take him into custody. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and remanded to the county jail. Difalco is due back in court on January 30^th.

 

The woman involved in the beating death of a Genesee County Sheriff’s Department sergeant has been sentenced. Yesterday, a judge ordered Lyndsey Wilcox to serve six months behind bars and five years on probation. Prosecutors say Sergeant Thomas SanFratello was trying to escort Wilcox and Michael Elmore out of Batavia Downs back in 2024 after a fight. That’s when Wilcox got into a confrontation with SanFratello, leading to Elmore assaulting him. Because she’s been in custody over 260 days, Wilcox was released.

 

The Regional Transit Service is planning to hold an informational session later today to gather feedback from customers on RTS Genesee’s new route service that began in August and also to provide information on a new service. The meeting starts at 5:00 this afternoon at the Genesee County Office for the Aging. For more information, please call 585-343-3079.

 

After being held captive by the Taliban for more than two years, a Dansville resident will be returning to the United States. The Taliban has agreed to a prisoner exchange that’ll allow Ryan Corbett to be freed. Corbett moved to Afghanistan to work with non-governmental organizations and started his own business before being detained in 2022. The Taliban is praising this swap as a way to normalize relations between Afghanistan and the U.S. Corbett’s family is thanking everyone responsible for his release.

 

Orleans County Sheriff Christopher Bourke is warning community members about a scam currently circulating in the area. The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office has received reports that individuals are receiving phone calls from scammers who claim to be members of the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office. These fraudulent callers are demanding payments via Venmo, or other electronic payment methods in exchange for clearing outstanding warrants. If you receive a call like this, do not provide any personal information, financial details, or make any payment. The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office will never request payment to resolve warrants or other law enforcement matters over the phone. These calls are a scam and should be treated as such. If you are contacted in this manner, please hang up immediately and report the incident to their office.

 

 

The New York State Department of Financial Services, along with Governor Hochul, are proposing new regulations to protect consumers against unfair overdraft fees. The new regulations would ensure customers would no longer face overdraft fees for minor transactions and require banks to provide timely notifications to customers about fees to improve transparency.

 

With less than four months until the federal REAL ID Act becomes enforceable, the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging New Yorkers to make sure they are prepared. Beginning on May 7, 2025, anyone going through airport security to fly domestically or attempting to enter secure federal facilities will be required to have a REAL ID or another form of compliant identification such as an Enhanced ID or Passport. For those who need to upgrade their state-issued ID before May 7, the DMV is strongly encouraging them to act now.

 

The Buffalo Police Department safely located two girls after they were reported missing on Monday night. Twelve-year-old Ariyah Brown and seven-year-old Nova-Payne Lilley were found safely in an apartment on Langfield Drive. The girls are being assessed for any injuries. Two people are being brought in to talk to detectives about the incident.

 

A Tonawanda woman has pleaded guilty to wire fraud in federal court for stealing over $440,000 from an Amherst business. Officials say between April 2022 and June 2024, 52-year-old Erin Martin made unauthorized electronic fund transfers from the business’s bank account directly into her personal account while she was their senior staff accountant. Martin admitted to using the money to pay for personal and family members’ expenses. She faces a maximum prison sentence of 20 years.

 

Governor Hochul has revealed her fiscal blueprint for the Empire State in the form of her latest budget proposal. The governor is calling for $252 billion to be spent, which is the highest amount during her time in office. Hochul claims her budget will deliver billions of dollars in tax cuts and it includes inflation refunds for individuals and families. It also calls for tripling the current child tax credit.   Lawmakers and the governor have until April 1st to pass the budget on time

 

President Trump has pardoned a Buffalo man who assaulted a police officer during the January 6th, 2021 insurrection. 39-year-old Thomas Sibick was sentenced to 50 months in prison after he plead guilty to a felony count of assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers and a misdemeanor count of theft. Sibick allegedly ripped a badge and radio from an officer who was pulled into a crowd during the attack.

 

The Buffalo Sabres got back in the win column with last night’s 3-2 victory over the Canucks in Vancouver. Jiri Kulich, JJ Peterka and Tage Thompson all chipped in with goals in the win. Buffalo will now head to Calgary for a matchup with the Flames tomorrow night. Puck drop is scheduled for 9:00.

 

 

29-year-old Julie Dutton of Batavia has been arrested by Genesee County Sheriffs. She’s charged with petit larceny and criminal mischief. It’s alleged Dutton stole property and then damaged it at an address on Park Road. She was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held pending charges from the City of Batavia.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that she has declared a State of Emergency in the counties of Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Allegany, Jefferson, Lewis, Oswego, Oneida and contiguous counties, that will allow the State to coordinate and share resources with local governments affected by the current Lake Effect snowstorm. This includes the State Department of Transportation, which will provide assistance to municipalities impacted by the State of Emergency in excess of existing shared service agreements.

 

A lake effect snow warning remains in effect in our region through 4:00am tomorrow morning. Additional snow accumulations ranging from 5 to 10 inches are predicted across far southwestern Genesee County and far western Wyoming County. If you’ll be driving into either of these areas or into Buffalo, exercise extreme caution. Leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns. If you must go outside, dress in several layers of clothing to keep warm. Cover exposed skin to reduce risks of frostbite or hypothermia.

 

The New York State Thruway Authority is warning motorists about an ongoing scam.   The agency says drivers have reported getting text messages from what appears to be E-ZPass NY or Tolls By Mail NY.   The messages tell the recipient that they have an overdue balance that needs to be paid and directs them to a website where they have to put in personal information. E-ZPass and Tolls by Mail will never ask for data like your credit card number, social security number or username. Anyone who gets this text should delete it.

 

Four men from the Rochester area are included in President Donald Trump’s massive pardon of more than 1,000 January 6, 2021 Capitol rioters. Dominic Pezzola of Rochester is one of 14 people to have his sentence commuted, which means his conviction still stands, but he will be released immediately. Pezzola, a former member of the far-right Proud Boys extremist group who broke into the Capitol building by smashing a window with a police riot shield, was sentenced in 2023 to serve 10 years in prison. Three others, Cody Mattice of Greece, James Mault of Brockport and James Weeks of Sodus, were all pardoned. Mattice and Mault previously admitted to participating in the insurrection. Weeks allegedly assaulted a Metropolitan Police Department officer and later incited a group of rioters to break into the Capitol through a window. The “full, complete and unconditional” pardons extend to people who were convicted of some of the worst crimes committed the day of the Capitol attack.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul will unveil her budget proposal that calls for $10 billion more in spending.   What’s expected to be a $252 billion plan for fiscal year 2026-2027 will include money for what Hochul calls her affordability agenda. Despite new funding from congestion pricing, it’s unknown how Governor Hochul and the state legislature plan to fill a multi-billion dollar hole for the MTA capital plan. Hochul is expected to introduce legislation in her budget that will restrict cell phone use in K-12 schools across the state.

 

The post-holiday season rise in the number of flu cases across the Western New York region is continuing. During the week ending January 11th, Monroe County had by far the highest infection total with 692.   That was followed by Wayne County with 109 and Ontario County with 91. Since flu season began back in October, there have been over 128,000 confirmed cases in New York State.

 

Tops Friendly Markets has announced the launch of its annual Check Out Hunger campaign. The supermarket chain says customers can tell cashiers how much they’d like to donate when it comes time to check out. All proceeds will go to several food banks including FeedMore WNY, Foodlink of Rochester and others. During its history, this campaign has raised more than $6 million. Donations this year are being accepted through February 8th.

 

Triple A is recommending that Bills fans making the last minute decision to attend Sunday’s AFC championship game travel to Kansas City by car. Triple A of Western New York says landing an affordable last minute flight from Buffalo to Kansas City will be challenging. The drive between the two cities is around a thousand miles, which Triple A estimates would take around 15 hours.   Hotels near the stadium in Kansas City are expensive and rooms are few, but better deals are reported downtown and near the airport.

 

 

The National Weather Service has issued a lake effect snow warning; it’s in place through 4:00am Wednesday morning. Heavy lake snow is expected, with total accumulations of 10-20 inches in the most persistent lake snow. The higher accumulations will be found from South Buffalo across the Buffalo South towns into southwestern Genesee County and Wyoming County. Travel will be difficult with very poor visibility and deep snow cover on roads. If you’re driving, be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions and visibilities, and especially low wind chill temperatures that will feel like it’s below zero.

 

The investigation continues today into an accident that seriously injured two juveniles. At around 6:15pm Saturday evening, a vehicle struck two people at the intersection of West Main and Oak Streets. Both victims were transported to Strong Memorial Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Police say the driver of the vehicle is cooperating with the investigation.

 

Western New York drivers are seeing consistent prices when it comes time to fill up their vehicles. Triple A tells us the national average cost for a gallon of regular gas right now is $3.13.   The state average is sitting at $3.16. In Batavia, the average price figures out to $3.20; that’s three cents higher than it was last week, four cents lower than it was a month ago, and a dime less than it was a year ago today.

 

Dozens of state lawmakers are calling on Governor Hochul to step in and close down Marcy Correctional Facility. They claim such a move is essential following the beating death of inmate Robert Brooks last month. Multiple employees at the prison are accused of assaulting Brooks in a disturbing incident that was recorded by body cameras. Brooks passed away hours after being attacked and his family has already filed a civil rights lawsuit. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

 

It’s Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Day, and people who want to honor the slain civil rights leader can do so from their own home. An event titled “We Press On: New York State Celebrates the Legacy of Doctor Martin Luther King Junior” has been released online.   This one-hour program showcases people from organizations across New York State who embody the principles of one of America’s most significant leaders for social justice. The special can be found at empirestateplaza.ny.gov/nyking.

 

The Buffalo Sabres will soon be on the ice as they look to avoid a second straight loss. The Sabres are visiting the Seattle Kraken of the Western Conference at Climate Pledge Arena in Washington State. Buffalo last played Friday against the Pittsburgh Penguins and fell by a final score of five to two, keeping them at the bottom of the standings in the Eastern Conference. Face-off this afternoon is set for 4:00.

 

The Bills are on their way to the AFC Championship game. Buffalo defeated the Baltimore Ravens 27-25 in the divisional round at Highmark Stadium yesterday. The Bills will now play the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs in Arrowhead Stadium for a spot in the Super Bowl. The game kicks off at 6:30 p.m on Sunday, January 26th and will air on CBS.

 

Crossroads House on Liberty Street, Batavia is hosting an evening of reflection, cocktails, dinner and dancing for staff, families and friends. The event will be held at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel on Saturday, January 25^th starting at 5:00pm. Your attendance will help support their mission to provide the best end-of-life care possible. For more information, please call 585-343-3892.

 

 

Two members of the Rochester Police Department are suspended after what are being called immature and unprofessional radio calls. The calls started Sunday and were made on one of the department’s secondary channels that are used to communicate between police vehicles. At points, the calls involved expletives and the officers also spoke about challenging each other to see who can run fastest or do the most push-ups. The officers are suspended without pay until an internal investigation is done.

 

The Erie County District Attorney’s Office is warning residents across the region about a robbery and sextortion scam. The office says they are investigating multiple complaints from victims who have reported being robbed during an encounter with a person they believed to be an escort. When the victim arrives for the arranged “date”, they are robbed by the suspects. Other reports involve the victim being forcibly filmed, and then being threatened to have the video posted on social media unless they pay the suspect. District Attorney Mike Keane says any victims or witnesses who have information on this crime or suspected human trafficking to contact his office or their local law enforcement agency.

 

A Hamburg man has been found guilty on charges of child sexual abuse. According to prosecutors, 28-year-old Tyler Wilkinson engaged in inappropriate conduct with a child under 17 years old between June 2017 and April 2022. He was also accused of having sexual contact with a child he knew who was under 13-years-old in 2021. Wilkinson was found guilty of first-degree sexual abuse and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. He faces a maximum of seven years in prison.

 

Hundreds of New York National Guard soldiers and airmen are on their way to Washington, DC ahead of President-elect Trump’s inauguration. The group will help with traffic control and crowd management during Monday’s swearing-in ceremony. Members of the Civil Support Team are also going to be on the lookout for potential chemical, radiological and biological hazards. The soldiers and airmen are scheduled to return next Tuesday and Wednesday.

 

Bills’ fans heading to Highmark Stadium today are urged to dress appropriately as dangerously cold temperatures are expected. Wearing multiple layers is advised, as well as hand warmers. Fans are also reminded that Highmark Stadium allows battery-operated clothing inside to help maintain body temperature. Dr. Michael Galante, the Facility Medical Director at Mercy Ambulatory Care Center, is also cautioning people against excessive alcohol consumption, as it can increase the chances of hypothermia.

 

Two of the top quarterbacks in the NFL are set to square off in the Divisional Round of the playoffs. Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills are hosting Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens Sunday night at Highmark Stadium. The Bills enter the Divisional Round as the second seed and are coming off a win over the Denver Broncos in the Wild Card round.   Allen completed 77 percent of his passes for 272 yards and a pair of touchdowns. Buffalo is the second seed in the AFC after winning the AFC East at 13-and-4. The Ravens are making a trip to Orchard Park following a victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Divisional Round. Jackson combined for 256 yards and two touchdowns. Baltimore finished first in the AFC North and is the third seed in the conference after going You can watch the game on channel 4 starting at 6:30 tomorrow evening. And… it was nine years ago this weekend, in 2016, when Kathryn Smith became the NFL’s first female full-time coach. The Buffalo Bills hired her as a special teams quality control coach.

 

Notre Dame Jr./Sr. High School at 73 Union Street will host their third annual meat raffle tomorrow evening, January 18^th from 7 until 9pm. For more information, please call 585-343-2783, ext. #106.

 

The next Friends of the Richmond Memorial Library monthly book sale is scheduled for Thursday, February 6^th from 9am until 7pm! The sale is held the first Thursday of each month. All proceeds benefit the Friends of the Library in support of Richmond Memorial Library. The sale is downstairs in the Wilber-Fox room. An elevator is available. For more information, please call: 585-343-9550.

 

 

Downtown business owner Matt Gray provided the winning bid of $175,000 this morning for the purchase of the former JC Penney department store. The property had been vacant since Penney’s closed in 2020. Gray said he had no definite plans for the property but noted a possible mix of commercial and housing options. The detailed story by Joanne Beck is available at thebatavian.com.

 

The Transportation Security Administration says the number of guns intercepted at Upstate New York airports rose in 2024. There were a total of 23 weapons seized, an increase of three from 2023 and tying the record set in 2022. TSA officers doing routine screening discovered four of those guns at Frederick-Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport. The TSA says any responsible gun owner should know they can’t have their weapon at an airport checkpoint.

 

Governor Hochul is looking to build support for some of the proposals laid out in her State of the State address. She is especially emphasizing the importance of putting money back in the pockets of working families by boosting the child tax credit to $1,000 for kids up to age four and $500 for children older than that. Any change would have to be approved by the state Legislature.

 

Rochester leaders say the amount of gun violence in their city has seen a sharp decline in recent years. Mayor Malik Evans said yesterday that crime data for 2024 showed a 53% decrease in shootings from 2021. Rochester Police Chief David Smith claims this drop is due to his agency specifically targeting gun violence while also trying to build relationships in the community. However, both Evans and Smith say there’s no time to get complacent.

 

Family members of Robert Brooks have filed a lawsuit in federal court weeks after his death. Brooks was an inmate at Marcy Correctional Facility when he was allegedly beaten by multiple staff members last month. Brooks was taken to a hospital but died hours after being attacked.   The incident was captured on body cameras and his relatives claim state officials oversaw a prison system that brutalizes inmates. Governor Hochul is calling for the employees involved in the assault to be fired.

 

A credit bureau is paying New York State for inaccurately reporting 10’s of thousands of credit scores. New York State Attorney General Letitia James says between March and April of 2022, a coding error caused Equifax to lower customer’s credit scores, causing lenders and insurers to inflate loans and policies. The company estimates roughly 77,000 New Yorkers were impacted. Equifax did notify lenders and insurance companies that summer, with dozens of groups offering remediation to consumers at the expense of Equifax. New York State has reached a $725,000 settlement with Equifax, which has agreed to implement more safeguards to prevent future mistakes.

 

The Buffalo Sabres are back on the winning track after picking up a needed win on home ice. Ryan McLeod scored his first career NHL hat trick and Dylan Cozens also had a goal as the Sabres beat the Carolina Hurricanes four to two at KeyBank Center last night. Buffalo goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen faced 37 shots in the contest and stopped 35 of them. Next, the Sabres host the Pittsburgh Penguins tomorrow night; the puck drops at 7:00.

 

Bills fans have the opportunity to win tickets to the game on Sunday by helping UB/MD Orthopedics & Sports Medicine register AEDs throughout Western New York. The University of Buffalo is looking to become a verifier for the life-saving devices through an app, which helps 911 operators tell people where to find one closest to them in case of an emergency. UB says the person who registers the most AED’s by Friday night will win two Bud Light Club tickets for Sunday. The winner will be announced on Saturday. More information can be found ubortho.com.

 

 

39-year-old Latoya Denise Jackson of Batavia has been arrested. Charges against her include criminal possession of a controlled substance, driving with a suspended vehicle registration, aggravated unlicensed operation and driving without insurance. It’s alleged Jackson was found in possession of two different controlled substances and she resisted arrest. Jackson was released on an appearance ticket.

 

27-year-old Salvatore Schwable of Oakfield has been arrested by Genesee County Sheriffs and charged with petit larceny and possession of a forged instrument. It’s alleged that he used a counterfeit bill to purchase merchandise from a gas station. Schwable was taken to the Genesee County Jail and held pending CAP Court arraignment.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul is focusing on affordability in her State of the State address. Hochul is announcing plans for an income tax cut that will lower middle class taxes to their lowest level in nearly seven decades, a first-ever inflation refund and an expansion of the child tax credit.   She also wants to provide free meals for millions of K through 12 students increase the number of childcare facilities and put the state on a pathway to universal childcare. In addition, Hochul is calling for the building of more housing and down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers.   She’s also proposing free SUNY tuition for adult students pursuing in-demand careers and is launching an initiative to help kids get off their phones and stay active.

 

The latest data shows there’s been yet another surge in the number of flu cases across the Western New York region. During the week ending January 4th, the area with the highest number of infections was Monroe County with 687. That was followed by Erie County with 427; Wayne County with 99; Ontario County with 96; Niagara County with 68; and Genesee County with 66. COVID-19 and norovirus cases are also rising in the area and residents are urged to take the proper precautions to protect themselves from getting sick.

 

There’s no escaping the long arm of the law: A man accused of setting his wife on fire in Rochester over five years ago is now in custody after being caught thousands of miles away. It’s alleged that 50-year-old David Johnson doused his wife in a flammable liquid back in August 2019 and ignited her. The woman suffered severe burns, and Johnson was taken into custody in Uganda where he was living under an alias. He’s already been extradited back to the area and remains behind bars without bail.

 

Notre Dame Jr./Sr. High School at 73 Union Street will host their third annual meat raffle this Saturday evening, January 18^th from 7 until 9pm. For more information, please call 585-343-2783, ext. #106.

 

Crossroads House on Liberty Street, Batavia is hosting an evening of reflection, cocktails, dinner and dancing for staff, families and friends. The event will be held at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel on Saturday, January 25^th starting at 5:00pm. Your attendance will help support their mission to provide the best end-of-life care possible. For more information, please call 585-343-3892.

 

After a few days off, the Buffalo Sabres will be back on home ice as they try and avoid a second straight defeat. The Sabres are hosting their Eastern Conference rivals the Carolina Hurricanes at KeyBank Center. Buffalo hasn’t played since Saturday when they suffered a six to two defeat at the hands of the Seattle Kraken. The Sabres sit in last place in the Atlantic Division and face-off this evening is scheduled for 6:00.

 

A Buffalo pizzeria is at risk of losing a lot of money if the Buffalo Bills do not beat the Baltimore Ravens this weekend.   Pesci’s Pizza and Wings posted a message on Facebook saying anyone who does an online preorder for a large pizza and 20 wings or large pizza and boneless specials through Thursday will get their money back if the Bills are beaten Sunday. The refunds would come in the form of an eGift card and customers should use the promo code JOSH4MVP when ordering.

 

NBC News feature:

A team of global health experts is proposing redefining obesity. The Commission on Clinical Obesity is recommending including body fat measurements and existing health issues instead of relying on body mass index alone. They also recommend using the terms “pre-clinical” and “clinical” obesity to distinguish between people who have potential health risks from obesity versus those who have issues affecting their organ functions.

 

 

31-year-old Zachary Whitehead of Batavia has been arrested for criminal impersonation and several traffic violations. The arrest stems from a traffic stop on October 8^th, 2024, when Whitehead gave police another person’s name, in order to avoid receiving traffic tickets. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in court today.

 

53-year-old Brian Kent of Batavia has been arrested. He’s charged with assault and obstruction of governmental administration. Kent was arrested on December 24^th, in connection with an incident on December 21^st. When officers attempted to take him into custody on a separate incident, Kent allegedly fought with two police officers, causing injuries to both of them. He was arraigned and jailed.

 

A jury has handed down its verdict in the murder trial of David Porter.   Yesterday, the panel convicted Porter of pistol whipping and killing David Treese after climbing into the victim’s cab last April and trying to rob him. Before deliberations started, Porter took the stand in his own defense, saying he’s struggled for years with drug addiction and also claimed he didn’t remember anything about the night of the homicide. He could be ordered to spend the rest of his life in prison when he’s sentenced next month.

 

Crossroads House on Liberty Street, Batavia is hosting an evening of reflection, cocktails, dinner and dancing for staff, families and friends. The event will be held at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel on Saturday, January 25^th starting at 5:00pm. Your attendance will help support their mission to provide the best end-of-life care possible. For more information, please call 585-343-3892.

 

The Town of Byron Republican Committee is seeking registered party members who are interested in becoming candidates for 2026 open positions for Town Supervisor, Town Clerk/Tax Collector, and two Town Board Council persons. For details, please call 585-703-5528.

 

The Richmond Memorial Library is offering classic movie screenings every third Thursday of the month; the next screening is this Thursday starting at 10:00am and features the 1944 film, “Arsenic and Old Lace.” For additional information, please call 585-343-9550.

 

One of the biggest games of the NFL season is happening in Western New York this weekend, and tickets are now available. The Buffalo Bills are taking on the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Divisional Round at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park Sunday. The winner advances to the AFC Championship Game and will be just a win away from making it to Super Bowl 59 in New Orleans.   Seats can be purchased through Ticketmaster and kickoff is scheduled for 6:30pm.

 

The National Weather Service has issued a snow warning for our region in effect until 4:00am tomorrow morning. Lake effect snow will continue over the Buffalo south towns and southern Genesee County through this evening. Additional accumulations of 4 to 8 inches are possible from the most persistent lake snows, bringing snow totals into the 6 – 12” range. Winds could gust as high as 35mph and create periods of reduced visibilities along with blowing and drifting snow. Anyone on the road should be prepared for rapid changes in weather, visibility and road conditions. Also, all after school activities for Batavia City Schools are cancelled today due to weather and The Richmond Memorial Library has closed for the day.

 

The Bills are on their way to the divisional round after dominating the Denver Broncos 31-7 at home in the AFC Wild Card. Quarterback Josh Allen completed 20 of his 26 pass attempts for 272 yards and two touchdowns. James Cook led all rushers with 120 yards and a touchdown. Curtis Samuel and Ty Johnson each caught a touchdown pass as well. Johnson knew he was close to being out of bounds: The Bills will now host the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Divisional round. The game will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 19th.

 

 

A recently completed study by SmartAsset has identified the top ten counties in New York State where our money goes the furthest. The financial advisor guide analyzed paycheck friendliness of each county, taking into consideration 1) semi-monthly paycheck amounts; purchasing power, or the value of goods and services a dollar can buy; unemployment rate and income growth. Most of the top ten counties were downstate, in the North Country or in central New York. Nassau County appeared at the top of the list; and the good news is, Genesee County came in ninth place and was the only county in the top 10 in the Western New York region.

 

 

Western New York motorists are generally finding consistent prices when it comes time to fuel up their vehicles.   Triple A says the national average cost for a gallon of regular gas today is $3.07.   The state average is $3.14. And in Batavia, average figures out to $3.18 per gallon; that’s down two cents from a week ago; seven cents from a month ago, and is 15 cents lower than it was a year ago today.

 

 

 

A Town of Sodus man has been arrested after Wayne County Sheriff’s deputies located a missing child at his home. Adrian M. Sovie, 19, initially told deputies that he was unfamiliar the teen, who is under 15 years old. Sovie then allegedly changed his story, admitting he knew the girl and her family. Deputies say that Sovie told them the child was at another home. When deputies failed to locate the child at that location, they returned to Sovie’s residence, at which point the missing girl came outside. Sovie was charged with unlawful imprisonment, obstructing government administration and endangering the welfare of a child. He was taken to the Sheriff’s jail to await arraignment. Sovie is set to appear in Town of Sodus Court.

 

 

 

 

The defense began laying out its case today in the Rochester murder trial of David Porter. Porter is accused of jumping into a cab driven by David Treese last April and pistol whipped and shot the victim as part of a robbery. Treese was able to get out of the vehicle but passed away on a Bay Street sidewalk. Porter’s attorney claims his client was under the influence of drugs and alcohol at the time of the homicide. Porter faces decades in prison if convicted.

 

 

 

 

 

Governor Hochul is proposing new initiatives aimed at making homeownership more affordable and accessible to New Yorkers. Her plan calls for supporting first-time homebuyers with down payment assistance, providing starter home innovation funding and creating an affordable homebuyer tax incentive. The governor says the cost of living is too high and these policies will put the dream of homeownership back in the hands of residents. There’s no word yet if the legislature will pass Hochul’s plans.

 

 

The Richmond Memorial Library is offering classic movie screenings every third Thursday of the month; the next screening is this Thursday starting at 10:00am and features the 1944 film, “Arsenic and Old Lace.” For additional information, please call 585-343-9550.

Governor Hochul wants to grant free school meals to nearly three-million-students across the state. It’s all part of the governor’s State of the State initiative, which she believes boasts the positive impact that universal free meals have had on students and families. The program includes free breakfast and lunch for every student at every school and it’s expected to save families an average of $165 on groceries every month for each child.

 

 

New York State is moving to fire four more employees at Marcy Correctional Facility. Those workers are accused of being involved in the beating of inmate Robert Brooks last month.   Brooks was taken to a hospital but passed away hours after being assaulted. The tragic incident was captured on video and these latest employees have been suspended without pay. Governor Hochul previously ordered that 14 other workers lose their jobs and one of them has already resigned.

 

 

Governor Hochul is proposing new initiatives aimed at making homeownership more affordable and accessible to New Yorkers. Her plan calls for supporting first-time homebuyers with down payment assistance, providing starter home innovation funding and creating an affordable homebuyer tax incentive. The governor says the cost of living is too high and these policies will put the dream of homeownership back in the hands of residents. There’s no word yet if the legislature will pass Hochul’s plans.

 

 

 

Home health services company CINQCARE is laying off around half of their Buffalo employees in April, impacting 51 out of their 117 total employees. Twenty-two out of 44 employees will be affected at their Main Street location, while 29 out of 73 workers will be affected at their Niagara Street location. CINQCARE offers support services for Medicaid patients suffering from multiple chronic conditions and mental health conditions.

 

New York Attorney General Letitia James is trying to recover more than $2 million worth of cryptocurrency in connection to a remote job scam impacting victims around the country. Authorities say scammers have been sending text messages offering fake online job opportunities in a trick to get people to purchase cryptocurrency and put it into scammers’ digital wallets. James says scammers promised victims good paying jobs if they opened a cryptocurrency account, deposited cryptocurrency, and reviewed products on fake websites to generate market data. James’s office was able to freeze the cryptocurrency accounts and is looking through a lawsuit to require scammers to pay penalties and restitutions.

 

 

 

Well, it can happen to anyone, anywhere, including entire communities:   The Town of Webster is expecting to make a full financial recovery after being victimized by a phishing scam.   Authorities say the scam cost the community more than $520,000. That incident happened a couple of months ago when scammers posed as a contractor that town officials had been in contact with. Already, over $300,000 has been seized and up to $240,000 will be covered by insurance. The scammers accessed no confidential or sensitive data.

 

 

 

Notre Dame Jr./Sr. High School at 73 Union Street will host their third annual meat raffle next Saturday, evening, January 18^th from 7 until 9pm. For more information, please call 585-343-2783, ext. #106.

 

 

 

 

Arc GLOW has recently opened their doors to the community by offering event space at the Community Center in Batavia, located at 38 Woodrow Road. For anyone looking to plan a large event, the Community Center holds up to 300 people and has a retractable room divider, allowing for a variety of different type of community events. Anyone interested in booking the Community Center or learn more about the space, fees and rental terms may call 585-343-1123, extension 1816.

 

 

The Buffalo Sabres are on a two-game winning streak after picking up a shutout victory. Jack Quinn scored twice and Dylan Cozens and Ryan McLeod also had goals for the Sabres as their team beat the Ottawa Senators four-to-nothing at the Canadian Tire Centre in Canada last night.   Buffalo’s goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen faced a total of 35 shots in the contest and stopped them all. Up next for the Sabres is a home game against the Seattle Kraken tomorrow, with face-off at 4:00.

 

The Buffalo Bills will have the support of their home crowd this weekend as they try and get one step closer to the Super Bowl. The AFC East champions are set to host the Denver Broncos in an AFC Wild Card round playoff game at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. Josh Allen put together a tremendous campaign in 2024 after combining for over 42-hundred yards and 40 touchdowns. The Bills finished up the regular season with a record of 13 victories and four losses while the Broncos had a record of 10 wins and seven losses. Kickoff tomorrow is scheduled for 1:00.

 

NBC News Features:

A new study suggests there are health benefits to drinking coffee — but only if you drink it in the morning. Researchers led by a team from Tulane University in New Orleans found that morning coffee drinkers were more than 30 percent less likely to die from heart disease than people who don’t drink coffee. But there was no reduction in risk for people who drank coffee at all hours. The study was published in the European Heart Journal.

 

 

A group that includes billionaire entrepreneur and former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt and “Shark Tank”-famous investor Kevin O’Leary is looking to buy TikTok. The group made a formal offer Thursday to buy the social media platform from its China-based parent company, ByteDance. It comes the day before the Supreme Court is set to hear arguments over upholding a law that would ban TikTok in the United States in just over a week if it is not sold. ByteDance has said on multiple occasions the platform is not for sale.

Testimony resumed today in Rochester in the murder trial of David Lee Porter.   According to prosecutors, Porter jumped into a cab driven by David Treese last April and pistol-whipped and shot the victim as part of a robbery. Treese was able to get out of the vehicle but passed away on a Bay Street sidewalk. Porter’s attorney claims his client was under the influence of drugs and alcohol at the time of the homicide.   Porter faces decades in prison if convicted.

 

 

 

Governor Hochul says up to $2 million is going towards expanding suicide prevention efforts among veterans and uniformed personnel. Those personnel include firefighters, law enforcement, corrections officers plus emergency dispatchers. Funds will be distributed through the Office of Mental Health’s Suicide Prevention Center of New York. The governor says service members and first responders experience trauma and stress and this money will ensure they can get help and support when needed.

 

Rochester Regional Health is temporarily reducing its number of available hospital beds due to a nursing shortage. Right now, work is underway to try and hire and retain new nurses while also lowering spending. The company is cutting down on the number of agency nurses it hires and is hoping new nurses and LPN’s will be on the way from the College of Health Careers.   While the number of beds is lower, hospital leaders say patient care isn’t being impacted.

 

The New York State Attorney General’s Office is putting the transportation industry on notice after finding ties to Medicaid fraud. AG Letitia James says at least 55 transportation companies across the state used fake billing schemes to steal from Medicaid and exploit vulnerable patients. In several cases, James says the companies would offer people cash to put in claims for rides that never happened while others would use unlicensed drivers. The AG’s office says ongoing investigations have allowed the state to secure $10 million worth of fraud and eleven convictions.

 

 

Arc GLOW has recently opened their doors to the community by offering event space at the Community Center in Batavia, located at 38 Woodrow Road. For anyone looking to plan a large event, the Community Center holds up to 300 people and has a retractable room divider, allowing for a variety of different type of community events. Anyone interested in booking the Community Center or to learn more about the space, fees and rental terms may call 585-343-1123, extension 1816.

 

No need to check the mailbox today. The U.S. Postal Service says it will not be delivering mail today as part of the National Day of Mourning for former President Jimmy Carter. All other federal offices will be closed, too, as a funeral is held for Carter in Washington, DC. Carter died last month at the age of 100.

 

 

It looks like the Buffalo Bills are going to have one of their star players available for this weekend’s playoff showdown. Wide receiver Amari Cooper returned to practice yesterday after leaving the team last week so he could deal with what is being called a personal matter.   Cooper finished up the regular season with 44 catches for 547 yards and four touchdowns. The Bills host the Denver Broncos Sunday starting at 1:00.   AND, the Buffalo Bills are giving fans a glimpse of the team’s future home. The team released new renderings of the of the $2.1 billion stadium this week, showcasing details of the lower bowl and new expanded concourse areas, which are designed to be more communal, with plenty of space for fans to socialize. The new design includes radiant heating incorporated throughout each concourse, as well as a 360-degree view of the field with unobstructed sight lines for fans. The new stadium is expected to be open by the 2026 season.

 

The Buffalo Sabres will be back on the ice north of the border tonight as they look to pick up a second straight win. The Sabres are battling the Ottawa Senators at the Canadian Tire Centre. Buffalo last played Monday when they beat the Washington Capitals in a shootout by the final score of 4 to 3. Face-off for their contest this evening is scheduled for 7:00.

NBC News Feature:

A recent rise in bird flu cases comes at the same time that the seasonal flu is spiking. Experts worry about what could happen if they combine.   Baylor infectious disease expert Dr. Peter Hotez says that, while it’s unlikely, there is still the possibility.   Because, he says, it’s happened before.   The CDC says there have been more than three-thousand deaths this year linked to the seasonal flu. Dr. Hotez urges people to get their flu shot now.

 

The hallways of the New York State Capitol building are busy once again today as lawmakers start their 2025 legislative session. Among some of their top priorities are expected to be working on the state budget and addressing issues like reducing population loss and getting the state closer to meeting climate mandates. Democrats will have the majority once again in both the Assembly and Senate. This year’s session is scheduled to wrap up in June.

 

The latest data shows there’s been yet another rise in the number of flu cases across the Western New York region. During the week ending December 28th, Monroe County had the highest infection total with 136. That was followed by Ontario County with 91 and Wayne County with 91. Experts say the best way for folks to protect themselves is to get a flu shot, practice good hygiene and avoid large crowds.

 

The real estate website Zillow has named Buffalo as the ‘hottest’ housing market for 2025. Zillow’s list is based on several factors such as home value growth and projected changes in the labor market. Zillow said that Buffalo has the most new jobs per new home permitted, which in turn raises competition and drives up prices unless builders can match the additional demand. Indianapolis, Providence, Hartford, and Philadelphia rounded out the top five.

 

Governor Kathy Hochul is looking to build more childcare centers in New York State. She says she’ll be proposing in her state of the state address next week spending $110 million to build more to address a shortage of facilities. For lower income families, the state has a program that offers childcare at a very steep discount. However, Hochul says some families may not have a facility near them to take advantage of the program.

 

Greece police are on the lookout for the suspects involved in a jewelry store theft. Video shows those suspects walking into Dubai Jewelry at The Mall at Greece Ridge Monday and at least one of them was armed with a baseball bat. The group then smashed display cases and took about $90,000 worth of jewelry.   A security guard in the food court was almost hit by the bat after it was thrown at him. Witnesses are asked to contact police immediately.

 

 

The Inner Loop Renovation Project in Rochester is getting a significant boost thanks to the federal government. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer was in the city yesterday to announce $100 million in funding. The project is considered a major part of Rochester’s downtown revitalization efforts and Mayor Malik Evans says it may end up being one of the largest construction projects in the city’s recent history. Work isn’t scheduled to begin until 2027.

 

The Erie County Sheriff’s Office Police Services Division is asking for the public’s help locating a man involved in an electronics scam at a Clarence Walmart. In a post on Facebook, the Sheriff’s Office says the man will engage customers as if he works for the retailer, and after receiving payment for the electronics promised, flees the store. The man is described as an older white or hispanic male, going by the name Jose. Anyone with possible information is asked the Erie County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at 716-858-2903.

 

 

The Buffalo Bills may be without a key member of their team when they take the field for a playoff game this weekend. Wide receiver Amari Cooper left the AFC East champions last week to deal with a personal family matter and there is no word when he could return.   Bills head coach Sean McDermott says he hopes Cooper is back soon but that things are being dealt with one day at a time. The Bills host the Denver Broncos at Highmark Stadium Sunday.

NBC News feature:

Girl Scout cookie season is starting to ramp up in some parts with two flavors making their final run in 2025. The organization says after nine years on the market, S’mores will be retired while the final sales of Toast-Yay! cookies will be made after only four years.   Girl Scouts of America says this is the first time it’s warning customers that flavors are being discontinued so they can stock up before they’re gone for good. All cookies will be available for sale at booths or online through local chapters across the country. Girl Scout cookie season runs through April.

Two employees of Casella Waste Systems, Incorporated are hospitalized this afternoon with serious but non-life threatening injuries, following a car versus garbage truck accident this morning. 33-year-old Scott Shea and 39-year-old Michael Cowham were transported to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. Police say the initial investigation indicates the Casella employees were standing outside of the garbage truck, which was parked along the west side of Ellicott Avenue, for a normal pick-up. The operator of a passenger vehicle was northbound on Ellicott, crossed the street and drove into the side of the truck and also hitting both employees. The operator of the vehicle, 39-year-old Kimberly Przybysz was taken to a local hospital as a precautionary measure; police learned that she may have suffered a medical event and momentarily lost control of the vehicle. Anyone with information regarding the accident is asked to contact police at 585-345-6350.

 

The Erie County Department of Health says respiratory illnesses are on the rise across Western New York as people spent extended time with each other over the holidays. Dr. John Sellick, the Hospital Epidemiologist for Kaleida Health, noted that the holiday season typically sees people gathered with groups inside, which means more people get sick with RSV, COVID-19, whooping cough, and Influenza.   Dr. Sellick said it’s reasonable for anyone seeing a rise in illnesses around them to go get a flu shot, COVID booster, and if appropriate, an RSV shot.

 

A Buffalo man has pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary, among other charges, after he repeatedly stole from the Walden Galleria. Between mid-January and mid-April 2023, 60-year-old Gary White, also known as Gary Johnson, allegedly burglarized the Cheektowaga mall on three separate occasions, attempting to steal over $5,000 worth of merchandise. He faces a maximum of seven years in prison when he is sentenced next month and remains held without bail.

 

 

 

It didn’t just happen in Batavia: Valu Home Centers is now set to close down three of its stores this week. The locally owned and operated home improvement chain announced it’s closing its stores at 3129 Orchard Park Road in Orchard Park, 5900 South Transit Road in Lockport and 1841 Elmwood Ave. at Hertel Avenue. The company cited the move as a result of higher inflation, rise in competition and increasing operational and labor costs.

 

Buffalo Bills fans that want to see their team take the field for the playoffs this weekend can now buy tickets to do so. A number of resale seats are available for purchase for Sunday’s game between the Bills and Denver Broncos through Ticketmaster. These two teams last met on Monday Night Football back in 2023 and the Broncos came out on top 24 to 22. Kickoff for this weekend’s game at Highmark is at 1:00.

 

New Buffalo Bills ‘Bill-ieve Together’ flags are available at M&T Bank branches just in time for the playoffs. The free banners are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are limited to one per person. M&T Bank gave out more than 20,000 banners to Bills fans during the playoffs last season.

 

The three-game losing streak of the Buffalo Sabres is over after the team earns a shootout win on home ice. Tage Thompson, Alex Tuch and JJ Peterka had a goal each as the Sabres beat the Washington Capitals 4 – 3 at KeyBank Center last night. Buffalo’s goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen faced 28 shots in the contest and stopped 25 of them. Up next for the Sabres is a game Thursday in Ottawa against the Senators.

About 39,000 John Deere mowers in the U.S. are being recalled over an engine issue. The recall impacts John Deere ZTrak Zero Turn Mowers with Kawasaki engines that were sold between October 2018 and September 2024. The voltage regulator inside the mower’s engine can fail, which can cause the engine to overheat and pose fire and burn risks.   Five fires have been reported, along with 26 reports of melting and or smoking. There have been no reports of injuries so far.

 

 

Two men have now been arrested at a Thruway stop for holding a woman against her will. State police said they received reports around 3 a.m. Thursday that a 27-year-old was being held against her will at the Ulster Travel Plaza. Police said she was able to escape and was later found in Orange County, unharmed. As for the two men, both were arrested, and police said they knew the victim. Jeffrey Blount was charged with unlawful imprisonment, while Kevin Smalls was charged with forcible touching.

 

Another inmate who was injured at a Central New York prison a few weeks ago has passed away. Family members of 22-year-old Edward Sholtz say he died yesterday at Wynn Hospital in Utica. Sholtz was an inmate at Mid-State Correctional Facility in Marcy, and was brought to the hospital on December 17th. The state corrections department says there are no signs of staff misconduct or foul play. Sholtz was serving 12 years after admitting he tried to sexually assault a woman.

 

A bill supported by Maine Senator Susan Collins will expand autism research in the United States. The Autism CARES Act of 2024 has been signed by President Biden and calls for billions of dollars to be used towards boosting funding and federal support for autistic individuals. Its estimated autism affects one out of every 36 people. The law also improves training for families, friends and professionals who need help understanding folks with autism.

 

The Buffalo Bills have wrapped up their regular season with a road loss to a division rival. Quarterback Josh Allen played one snap before Mitch Trubisky took over and threw for 101 yards and a touchdown as the Bills fell to the New England Patriots 23 to 16 at Gillette Stadium yesterday. Buffalo running back James Cook tied a team record by scoring his 16th rushing TD of the year. Up next for the Bills is a home playoff game at 1:00 Sunday against the Denver Broncos.

 

The Buffalo Sabres will be on home ice for the first time in 2025 tonight as they look to snap a three-game losing streak.   The Sabres are hosting the Washington Capitals at KeyBank Center. Buffalo last played Saturday when they were defeated by the Vegas Golden Knights in Sin City. The puck drops tonight at 7:00.

22-year-old Tyler Bull of Batavia has been arrested and charged with criminal contempt. It’s alleged that he violated an order of protection by calling the protected party 142 times. Bull was arrested at the Genesee County Jail where he is currently incarcerated. He is due to appear in Genesee County CAP Court today.

 

 

New Yorkers who repeatedly drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol will now permanently lose their driving privileges after four drug- or alcohol-related convictions or incidents, such as failure to submit to a chemical test. This change became effective Friday, January 3^rd, following the adoption of stricter regulations from the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. Previously, drivers would face permanent license denial after five drug- or alcohol-related convictions or incidents.  For more information, visit dmv.ny.gov

 

 

The Great Batavia Train Sale is scheduled for Sunday, January 12^th from 9:30 am until 3:30pm at Genesee Community College Richard C. Call Arena. The cost is $6 for adults, $3 if you’re under 18 and admission is free for kids under the age of 13. Over 100 vendors will be offering all scales of model trains and historic railroad items. Modeling demonstrations, and a limited number of portable layouts, will be part of the fun. Parking is free; there will be a snack bar and plenty of seating. For more information, please visit: gsme.org

 

 

 

The state Attorney General’s Office is recusing itself from the case involving the death of Marcy Correctional Facility inmate Robert Brooks. AG Letitia James said the decision was made because her office is representing some of the corrections officers who allegedly had a role in Brooks’ death in civil lawsuits. Brooks was attacked at the prison December 9th and died the next day.   The assault was caught on camera and Onondaga County DA William Fitzpatrick will now be the special prosecutor.

 

 

A former Erie 1 BOCES teacher was sentenced after over a thousand images and hundred of videos of child pornography were found in his possession, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced Thursday. Officials said 41-year-old Anthony Giambrone was convicted of possession of child pornography involving prepubescent minors after pleading guilty in May. He possessed around 1,052 images and 381 videos of child pornography on two separate laptops in April 2020. Giambrone, of Kenmore, previously worked at Maryvale Intermediate School in Cheektowaga. He was sentenced to five years in prison and was ordered to pay $16,000 to victims in the case.

 

 

A former Rochester city employee is in some legal trouble after being accused of assaulting a police officer. It is alleged 38-year-old Anthony Hall attacked the officer after police responded to Hall’s home on East Main Street yesterday after getting a call about family trouble and being told a person was trying to break into that residence.   Hall was in front of the home and asked to leave, but shoved one officer and caused another to hurt his hand.   Hall is facing charges and is due in court again Tuesday.

 

 

The cast of “Disney on Ice” will be taking part in their annual visit to Rochester this weekend. The theme of this year’s show at Blue Cross Arena is Mickey’s Search Party and features appearances by Mickie Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Captain Hook, Tinkerbell and more. There are two performances today (FRIDAY) and Sunday and three shows are set to take place tomorrow (SATURDAY). Seats can be purchased online through Ticketmaster.

 

 

 

The site of the former Club Marcella has been purchased by the Seneca Gaming Corporation. Seneca Gaming CEO Kevin Nephew says buying the property at 106 Michigan Ave. was strategic due to its proximity to the casino. Club Marcella was shut down in December 2023 after four shootings at the establishment in that year alone. Nephew said they’re examining how the property can best support our operations and our long-term vision.

 

 

The Buffalo Bills will be on the road as they look to close out the regular season with a victory.   The AFC East champions are visiting their division rivals the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts. Buffalo is coming off a 40 to 14 win over the New York Jets and are locked into the number two seed in the AFC playoffs. Kickoff Sunday is scheduled for 1:00.

 

ConnectLife is offering Buffalo Bills fans a chance to win playoff tickets by donating blood. Starting on Monday, January 6th, and any other week leading up to a home playoff game, anyone who donates blood will be entered to win a pair of tickets. Fans must enter at least two days before the game to be eligible for the promotion. Anyone interested can make an appointment at connectlifegiveblood.org.

 

 

On the second anniversary of his cardiac arrest, Buffalo Bills safety announced a scholarship program in honor of the team’s athletic training staff.   Hamlin held a private dinner for the staff last night, who were critical in the emergency response that saved Hamlin’s life after he collapsed on the field mid-game in Cincinnati. During last night’s dinner, Hamlin surprised them by announcing the expansion of his Chasing M’s Foundation to include a youth scholarship program in Buffalo in their honor. The Buffalo Heroes Scholarship will support underserved high school and college-bound students who hope to attend Buffalo area private high schools, trade schools or universities.

James E Murray Jr (age 36) of Batavia, was arrested for Burglary 2nd, Criminal Contempt 1st, and Harassment 2nd. Murray allegedly violated an order of protection, during a domestic incident on Montclair Ave. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. He is due back in court, on 1/7/2025

 

 

 

Samuel R Blackshear (age 23) of Batavia, was arrested for Burglary 2nd, Criminal Contempt 1st, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Blackshear was allegedly involved in a physical altercation, on Ellsworth Ave, where he violated an order of protection and placed his hands around the victim’s neck, causing her to be unable to breathe. He was arraigned in CAP Court and is due in Batavia City Court, at a later date.

 

 

Governor Kathy Hochul is condemning what she called a cowardly act of evil in New Orleans on New Year’s morning. She said yesterday that New Yorkers stand ready to help our countrymen in New Orleans in any way we can. The FBI is investigating it as an act of terrorism after a driver drove down Bourbon Street, resulting in the deaths of 15-people and several dozen injuries. Hochul has ordered New York State Police to be on high alert, even though there’s no direct threat involved.

 

Police in East Rochester along with Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies have arrested at least one person after chasing two possibly stolen cars overnight. The chase was located near Linden Avenue and South Landing Road in Brighton near Interstate 490. No other details have been released.

 

 

After a slow rollout, legal cannabis sales continue to grow in New York State. Governor Kathy Hochul is announcing the industry has surpassed one billion dollars in cannabis related sales.   Right now there are more than 5,000 licenses, permits, and registrations issued or approved to date. Hochul says more than half of the licenses have been awarded to social and economic equity applicants, with a lot of representation from minority and women owned businesses. There are more than 275 licensed dispensaries in the state.

 

Researchers report Rochester has just recorded its warmest year in history. Last year’s average temperature was 52.6 degrees, That tops the previous record of 51.8 degrees set in 2012. Records for Rochester go back more than 150 years.   They also say eight of the top ten hottest years have occurred since 1998.

 

 

 

The Buffalo Police Department is using a new state-of-the-art tethered drone to help fight crime in 2025. The drone has already been in use, being deployed back in December to help find a patient who had been reported missing from Mercy Hospital. Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia says the drone can go as high as 125 feet and has an extremely high definition camera and infrared capabilities. Funding for the technology is covered by a grant from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services.

 

New York is the first state to require paid leave for prenatal care. A law went into place yesterday that will mandate employers to pay someone who is pregnant for 20-hours of leave to attend medical appointments. Spouses won’t be eligible. Governor Kathy Hochul previously said a pregnant woman shouldn’t have to choose between a paycheck and a check-up.

 

 

Buffalo Bills rookie linebacker Joe Andreessen is expected to have extended playing time in Sunday’s regular season finale at New England. Andreessen, a Lancaster High School and University at Buffalo alumnus, will see more game action as starting middle linebacker Terrel Bernard was ruled out due to a quadriceps injury. Nicknamed “Buffalo Joe,” Andreessen is the first Western New York native in eight years to make the Bills roster. Head coach Sean McDermott said Andreessen has earned every last piece of it, and he’s excited to watch him take the field on Sunday.

 

It was two years ago today when Bills player Damar Hamlin collapsed from cardiac arrest and was revived by CPR on the field during a televised NFL game.

Heavy snow is expected to fall in parts of Western New York. The National Weather Service says heavy lake effect snow with significant accumulations is possible, beginning tomorrow. Winds gusts could produce blowing and drifting snow. A winter storm watch goes into effect tomorrow morning and lasts until Sunday afternoon for Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Southern Erie counties.

 

New Year’s Eve has arrived, and there will be enhanced security measures in place all across the Empire State. Security is being boosted at airports, bridges, tunnels and mass transit systems as a precautionary measure. Police statewide will be focusing on getting dangerous drivers off the roads as part an ongoing crackdown that is scheduled to run through tomorrow. Anyone who sees suspicious activity is asked to dial 911 immediately.

 

Genesee County Sheriff William Sheron is set to retire at the end of 2024. Sheron served as the Genesee County Sheriff for 47 1/2 years. Chief Deputy Joseph M. Graff will take over as the 55th sheriff of Genesee County at the beginning of 2025.

 

 

 

 

 

The New York State Department of Health is once again urging people to roll up their sleeves and get vaccinated against the flu virus. The agency says during the week ending December 21st, the number of confirmed flu cases statewide surged 86%.   Regionally, Monroe County had the most cases with 301 and Ontario County was a distant second with 52. For more information, visit vaccines.gov.

 

 

A former Livingston County assistant district attorney is in legal trouble after being charged with misconduct. Authorities say 30-year-old Jonathan Francisco was involved in an inappropriate relationship with a crime victim   Francisco left his position in the DA’s office earlier this month. The nature of that alleged relationship is not being made public but it happened while he was serving as the assistant district attorney. Francisco is due in court January 22nd.

 

 

 

Protesters are demanding action against prison guards in the deadly beating of a New York inmate. Family, friends and supporters demonstrated outside Governor Kathy Hochul’s Manhattan calling Robert Brooks’ death “a modern-day lynching.”   Video shows the 43-year-old being punched, choked, kicked and hoisted by his neck while handcuffed on a gurney earlier this month at Marcy Correctional Facility in Oneida County. Brooks died the next day. So far, no criminal charges have been filed against the prison guards involved, some of whom have been implicated in other assaults on inmates.   The FBI and Justice Department are investigating. Meantime, Hochul announced prison reforms while visiting Marcy, including more body cams and new leadership.

 

 

It was nine years ago today when the New Year’s Eve fireworks celebration in Rochester was called off after an arrest in an ISIS-inspired terror plot. Emanuel Lutchman was accused of planning to attack a restaurant or bar in the Rochester area in the name of ISIS.

 

 

 

It’s now 2025, and new state laws are in effect. Telemarketers will now be required to provide the purpose of their call plus the name and address of their company within the first 30 seconds of a call. Cell phone companies must also limit or disable service to a device that is reported stolen to reduce the number of phones sold on the black market. Minimum wage for our region increased by 50 cents to $15.50/hour.   Finally, New York will be the first state in the country to require paid prenatal leave.

 

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen will be able to keep his streak of consecutive starts intact this weekend. Bills head coach Sean McDermott said yesterday Allen is going to take the field for the 121st straight time when Buffalo takes on the New England Patriots Sunday. However, McDermott also said Allen will play a very short period of time before backup QB Mitch Trubisky takes over. The Bills are already locked into the number two seed in the AFC playoffs.

The state is awarding $51 million in grants for affordable home ownership.   Governor Kathy Hochul says more than one thousand low to moderate income families in different areas of the state are being awarded the money which can be used for making repairs, renovations and safety modifications to homes. The money is also helping for down payment assistance to first time homebuyers.   For additional information, you can follow links at hcr.ny.gov.

 

Motorists won’t be seeing much of a change when they head to the gas station to fill up. Triple A says the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.03. The state average is sitting at $3.12. In our region, the average price per gallon calculates out to $3.22. That is down a penny in the last week, and it is also three cents less than what drivers were paying at this point one month ago. A year ago today, we were paying $3.40.

 

A New Year means new laws, and there will be a variety of legislation on the books in the Empire State comes New Year’s Day. Telemarketers will be required to provide the purpose of their call plus the name and address of their company within the first 30 seconds of a call. Cell phone companies must also limit or disable service to a device that is reported stolen to reduce the number of phones sold on the black market. Finally, on January 1st New York will be the first state in the country to require paid prenatal leave.

 

A man is charged after Niagara County Sheriff’s deputies rescued him from a crashed vehicle in the Town of Wheatfield. Authorities say deputies were called out yesterday on a report that a vehicle had overturned and was underwater in a ditch. Deputies were able to open the vehicle and pull Robert Prange to safety. Prange was sent to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. He was charged with a traffic violation and Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs after an investigation revealed he was under the influence of drugs.

 

 

Officials are gearing up for Downtown Buffalo’s 37th Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks Celebration. The event will take place tomorrow night from 10 p.m. to midnight at Roosevelt Plaza in Downtown Buffalo. The celebration includes live music, the ceremonial “Dropping of the NYE Ball”, and a fireworks display starting at midnight.

 

 

The Buffalo Bills have locked up the second seed in the AFC playoffs after rolling to a blowout victory at home. QB Josh Allen threw two touchdown passes and also had a rushing score as his team dominated the New York Jets 40 to 14 at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park yesterday. The Bills have also broken the franchise record for points scored in a season and were undefeated at home. Their final game of the regular season is Sunday against the New England Patriots.

One of the original cast members of “Saturday Night Live” is making an appearance in the area this weekend. Actor Chevy Chase will be at Rochester’s West Herr Auditorium Theatre on Sunday night for a screening of the hit holiday movie National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Chase starred in the 1989 film and will answer questions from fans after the movie is shown. Seats are still available and can be purchased at the box office or online through Ticketmaster.

 

Greece police are releasing details about an incident that led to The Mall at Greece Ridge shutting down early. The department says it received a request last night from mall security asking that officers help with clearing out large groups of disorderly teens and young adults that had gathered. Once outside the mall, some of those groups were involved in fights around the area and two 16-year-olds were taken into custody. No stores were damaged and there were also no injuries reported.

 

The Ellicottville Police Department has arrested three people in connection to reports of larceny at Holiday Valley. Officials say the incident occurred around 6 p.m. on December 21st. The suspects have been identified as 50-year-old John Oyler, 56-year-old Michael Havers and 46-year-old Darby Monahan. All three face several charges including second-degree criminal mischief and third-degree grand larceny. Oyler is behind bars, while the other two were released and are expected to appear in court at a later date.

 

An arrest has been made just days after Niagara SPCA says an emaciated dog was found alone on a road in Lockport. SPCA Humane Law Enforcement Agents arrested 39-year-old Ashley Pritchard after someone found the dog stumbling without a collar on Ruhlmann Road Tuesday afternoon. They said the dog, named Eve, was around eight pounds underweight and suffering from hypothermia. The next day, the shelter announced that Eve had died.   Pritchard is charged with “failure to provide,” which is a Class A misdemeanor in New York State.

 

An investigation continues into the discovery of four stolen vehicles in Rochester. According to authorities, they were all found yesterday on Thomas Street in the city after law enforcement tracked one of those vehicles from Gates. It is believed the other vehicles were stolen from Irondequoit, Brighton, and Rochester. So far, no arrests have been made and anyone with information is asked to contact police.

 

The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a missing teen who was last seen on December 19^th in Lockport. 17-year-old Leanna D. Palmer was last seen wearing a grey Nike Tech sweatsuit and black puffer coat, officials said. She is 5-foot-3 and approximately 170 lbs. Anyone with any information should contact Investigator Timothy Caughel of the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office at 716-438-3393.

 

 

 

 

A Buffalo Bills fan is organizing the first ever alcoholics anonymous meeting at Highmark Stadium this Sunday. Andy Borden organized the “Hey Hey AA” meeting to inspire others with his own journey to sobriety. He said he knows how intimidating it can be to go to places where alcohol is so prominent, but knowing there are resources and people there to share that experience is important. Borden said the Bills organization has been supportive as well, providing them with a parking spot for the meeting. The meeting takes place at 11:00am in Lot 6 at Highmark Stadium before Sunday’s game against the New York Jets.

 

 

It was nine years ago this week when the New Year’s Eve fireworks celebration in Rochester was called off after an arrest in an ISIS-inspired terror plot.   Emanuel Lutchman was accused of planning to attack a restaurant or bar in the Rochester area in the name of ISIS.

 

 

 

After snapping a 13-game losing streak, the Buffalo Sabres will try and make it back-to-back victories tonight. The Sabres will battle the Chicago Blackhawks at KeyBank Center in a contest between two teams that are at the bottom of their respective conferences.   Buffalo last played Monday when they beat the New York Islanders seven to one. Face-off tonight is set for 7:00.

 

 

 

The Buffalo Bills are going to be playing their final home game of the regular season against a division rival. The AFC East champions are hosting Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. Buffalo is coming off a 24 to 21 win over the New England Patriots and are hoping to secure the number two seed in the AFC playoffs. Kickoff Sunday is scheduled for 1:00.

 

The HEARTS Act, backed by Bills safety Damar Hamlin, has been signed into law by President Joe Biden. The law aims to improve access to resources for heart health around the country, including putting automated external defibrillators in schools and making CPR training more accessible. Hamlin, who went into cardiac arrest and collapsed during a Bills game just under two years ago, advocated for the bill and worked on it with Sen. Chuck Schumer.

 

Rochester police are continuing their investigation into multiple vehicle break-ins in their city. They say around one a-m yesterday, there were vehicle break-ins reported in the parking lot of Saint Marianne Cope Roman Catholic Church after midnight mass. A few hours later, 11 cars were found with broken windows on Park Avenue near Barrington Street. So far, no arrests have been made in connection with these incidents.

 

Some new data shows the spread of flu virus is definitely on the rise in Western New York. During the week ending December 14th, the highest number of infections were reported in Monroe County with 130. That was followed by Ontario County with 35 and Genesee County with 17. Flu has already been declared prevalent in New York and residents who haven’t been vaccinated yet are urged to get their shots immediately.

 

 

A lot of people are heading to stores to return holiday gifts today, and the state Division of Consumer Protection says there’s things they should keep in mind. First, state law doesn’t require retailers to accept returns, but they must post a notice saying that. If a return policy is not posted, the retailer has to accept returns of undamaged and unused merchandise within 30 days of the purchase date.   Consumers should also bring receipts with them if possible to make the return process easier.

 

A retired Rochester Police officer has pleaded guilty to making multiple threatening phone calls to a woman in Orchard Park who he used to be in a relationship with. Michael Tymoch served in the department for 31 years and retired in May. He accepted the plea deal on his harassment charge in Orchard Park Town Court. Tymoch was sentenced to a one-year conditional discharge and a $250 fine. RPD has confirmed that Tymoch has been de-certified in New York State.