Local News

46-year-old John Gronowski of Cheektowaga has been arrested in Batavia. It’s alleged he trespassed by entering Batavia Downs Casino after being advised he was not allowed on the property. Gronowski was released on an appearance ticket for Town Court on October 10.

 

 

65-year-old Larry Delre of Pembroke has been arrested. He’s charged with grand larceny for issuing a bad check. It’s alleged Delre wrote a bad check after purchasing mulch and was given multiple opportunities to pay for it but refused. He was released on an appearance ticket for Batavia Town Court on October 10th.

 

Sheriffs in Orleans County have arrested 41-year-old Kevin McEwen of Kendall. It’s alleged he displayed and discharged two rounds of a firearm at the time an individual arrived at his home to retrieve their property. McEwen faces multiple charges, the most serious of which include criminal possession and criminal use of a weapon. He was held in Orleans County Jail and has an appearance scheduled in Kendall Town Court on October 16th.

 

Negotiations are scheduled to resume today between nurses at Rochester General Hospital and Rochester Regional Health. The two sides have been trying to work out an agreement on a brand-new labor contract for months. Some of the key issues getting in the way of reaching a deal include pay and staffing levels. Nurses decided to go on strike for a few days back in August. There’s no word if they’re planning to walk off the job again if a new contract isn’t in place soon.

 

Governor Hochul has a solution to the migrant crisis, which includes finding them employment. She has directed the New York State Department of Labor to connect employers with asylum-seekers and migrants who are on the path to receiving work authorizations to allow them to get job offers. This comes after White House officials announced that certain asylum seekers who had been staying in the United States on or before July 21, 2023 were eligible to apply for Temporary Protected Status. People with TPS can be authorized to work in the United States 30 days after filing their application while those who do not have TPS would have to wait 180 days. The state is ready to assist asylum seekers and migrants with submitting paperwork needed for legal work status. Between 4000 and 15000 migrants are crossing the southern border into the United States every day.

 

Western NY is a tourist destination. Tourism spending in Western New York has hit $2.2 billion, surpassing pre-pandemic era numbers. Visit Buffalo Niagara follows the money that comes to WNY through tourism. Analysis of money spent by tourists shows that it primarily came from sporting events and leisure travel, which includes things like Bills games and March Madness. A little over a third of the money spent went to restaurants.

 

Now that a jury is in place, opening statements are scheduled for today in the murder trial of Kelvin Vickers. He is the person prosecutors say killed Rochester police officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz last year. Mazurkiewicz’s partner, officer Sino Seng, was also wounded by gunfire but survived his injuries. The officers were working as part of an undercover investigation into illegal marijuana transactions when they were shot. The trial is expected to last several weeks.

 

Amazon has announced the grand opening of its brand-new career center in East Buffalo. The goal is to help people apply for jobs that the retail giant is trying to fill. The center is located on Broadway between Mortimer Street and Spring Street and it’s going to be open year-round. Among the positions that are open include customer fulfillment and transportation. For more information, go to hiring.amazon.com.

 

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has been named AFC Offensive Player of the Week for his performance in the team’s 38-10 win against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday. Allen completed 31 of his 37 passes for 274 yards and three touchdowns as the team bounced-back from a stunning season-opening loss to the New York Jets six days prior. The sixth-year quarterback has now won the award 12 times in his career, breaking Jim Kelly’s team record.

 

Country music superstar Kane Brown is going on tour, and he’ll be making a stop right here in Western New York. Brown is set to perform at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo on April 6th. He’ll be joined at the show by special guests Parmalee and also Tyler Hubbard. Brown is celebrating the release of his new single “I Can Feel It” and tickets for the concert go on sale October 5th.

 

 

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

A Michigan woman is safe after a daring rescue — from an outhouse toilet. State Police said in a statement a woman got stuck while trying to retrieve her Apple Watch she had dropped in the toilet at a park in the town of Gaylord. In addition to state troopers, first responders from the state Department of Natural Resources and the Ostego County E-M-S were on the scene. The woman was flushed out after the toilet was removed and a strap was used to lift the woman to safety. State Police are urging park-goers not to climb into outhouse toilets.

 

A rare Bob Ross painting is expected to sell for nearly $10 million. The late host of the PBS show “The Joy of Painting” made the piece in less than 30 minutes on the show’s very first episode in 1983. The piece titled “A Walk in the Woods” shows a stone path winding through a serene forest, and was originally purchased by a PBS volunteer at a benefit auction, likely for under 100 dollars. Bob Ross and his show have enjoyed resurgence in popularity in recent years, and now millions subscribe to his YouTube Page. “A Walk in the Woods” is on sale for $9.85 million.

 

A fish that is at a San Francisco aquarium is believed to be the oldest fish under human care in the world. Scientists at the Steinhart Aquarium inside the California Academy of Sciences say the Australian lungfish named Methuselah is 92 years old, plus or minus eight years. Methuselah was brought to the museum way back in 1938. Scientists recently were able to use DNA from her fin to determine her age. Aquarium officials say despite her advanced age, Methuselah is active in her tank, which is sure to get a few more visitors in front of it now.

 

The head of the Federal Reserve says they are holding off on raising interest rates. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell made that announcement on Wednesday, but added there could be another rate hike before the year is over. Powell said inflation is still well above the central bank’s goal of 2%.

 

Americans will have access to more free COVID-19 home tests. The US Department of Health and Human Services said Wednesday that the government is re-launching a program to provide free tests. Households can order four tests from covidtests.gov starting September 25th. The government has already shipped more than 755,000,000 free tests to those who’ve requested them.

 

Today is Sunday, September 17th, the 260th day of the year.

September 21 in history…

…In 1787, the Constitution of the United States was signed at the end of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia.

 

 

 

 

…In 1796, to announce his decision not to seek a third term as President, George Washington presented his Farewell Address to Congress in a newspaper article.

 

 

 

…In 1862, Confederate forces under General Robert E. Lee were crushed by Union forces at the Battle of Antietam in Maryland. At least 22000 men were killed, wounded or missing. It remains the deadliest one-day battle in all of American military history.

 

 

…In 1955, actor James Dean filmed a television commercial for the National Highway Safety Committee urging Americans to drive safely. He would later die in a car accident at the age of 24, just under a month before “Rebel Without A Cause” premiered in New York. (Pictured: James Dean gives a thumbs-up sign from his Porsche 550 Spyder, which he nicknamed ‘The Little Bastard’. Dean owned the car only nine days when he lost his life in a fatal highway accident while driving it. It was speculated had Dean been wearing a seat belt, he most likely would have survived the crash. James Dean’s death help to raise the public’s awareness over seat belt use and ushered in the age of automotive safety.

 

…In 1972, the classic sitcom, “M*A*S*H,” debuted on CBS. The show stayed on the air eleven years and is widely regarded as one of the top comedy programs in history. The finale titled “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen” became the most-watched and highest-rated single television episode in U.S. television history at the time, with a record-breaking 125 million viewers.

 

 

 

 

…In 1983, Vanessa Williams became the first Black woman to be crowned Miss America. She was later forced to surrender her crown after “Penthouse” magazine published nude pictures of her.

 

 

 

 

…In 1991, the sitcom, “Home Improvement,” made its debut on ABC. It was one of the highest-rated sitcoms for almost the entire decade.

 

 

 

 

…In 2001, David Letterman hosted the first late-night talk show since the terrorist attacks on September 11th. Letterman opened the show with his thoughts on the matter. Guests included talk show host Regis Philbin and an emotional Dan Rather who was moved to tears while discussing the tragedy with Letterman.

 

 

 

…In 2022, Attorney General Letitia James sued Trump, three of his children, and their company of large-scale business fraud. James alleged that the Trump Organization inflated the values of its properties when seeking loans and deflated them to pay less in taxes.

A Rochester man is charged with murder after he shot and killed a teenager who was driving his wife’s stolen vehicle over the summer, according to police.  Officers responded to the area of Joseph Avenue and Laser Street around 6 a.m. June 27 for a report of gunshots.  They found a stolen vehicle had crashed, with the driver suffering from a gunshot wound.  Investigators determined the owner of the stolen vehicle woke up around 5:30 a.m. and noticed her vehicle had been taken from her driveway overnight.  Her husband, 37 year old Byron Bell allegedly tracked down the vehicle and fired multiple gunshots from an illegally possessed handgun  killing Ja’hod Snow, 18, who was in the driver’s seat.  Police said other individuals in the vehicle were not hit by the gunfire and fled the scene.  A U.S. Marshals task force, along with members of the Rochester Police Department’s tactical unit, took Bell into custody Wednesday.  Bell is charged with second-degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon. He’s scheduled to be arraigned Thursday morning.

A man faces charges after a report of shots fired led to a police chase Tuesday night in Rochester. Officers responded to Cameron Street around 9:45 p.m. and saw an SUV speed off from the area.  The pursuit ended near Dengler and Silver streets, when police took 26 year old Shakier Hartzog into custody after he allegedly tried to run from the scene. Police said an officer “sustained a significant lower body injury” during the foot chase and was taken to a hospital. Investigators found 20 7.62-caliber casings at the scene on Cameron Street and recovered two guns from from inside the vehicle, though it’s unclear whether the shots fired came from the vehicle.  Hartzog is charged with assault, criminal possession of a weapon, prohibited use of a weapon, obstruction of governmental administration, and various vehicle and traffic violations. He was taken to the Monroe County Jail. 

Governor Hochul has a solution to the migrant crisis, get them jobs.  She has directed the New York State Department of Labor to connect employers with asylum-seekers and migrants who are on the path to receiving work authorizations to allow them to get job offers.  This comes after White House officials announced that certain asylum seekers who had been staying in the United States on or before July 21, 2023 were eligible to apply for Temporary Protected Status.  People with TPS can be authorized to work in the United States 30 days after filing their application while those who do not have TPS would have to wait 180 days.  The state is ready to assist asylum seekers and migrants with submitting paperwork needed for legal work status under the direction of Governor Hochul.  Between 4 thousand and 15 thousand migrants are crossing the southern border every day.  

Western NY is a tourist destination.  Visit Buffalo Niagara determines that tourism spending in Western New York has hit $2.2 billion surpassing pre-pandemic era.  Visit Buffalo Niagara follows the money that comes to WNY through tourism.  President Patrick Kaler says the tourism spending primarily came from sporting events and leisure travel, which includes things like Bills games and March Madness.  Kaler says the largest share of spending is 34 percent that went to the restaurant industry.

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has been named AFC Offensive Player of the Week for his performance in the team’s 38-10 win against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday.  Allen completed 31 of his 37 passes for 274 yards and three touchdowns as the team bounced-back from a stunning season-opening loss to the New York Jets six days prior.  The sixth-year quarterback has now won the award 12 times in his career, breaking Jim Kelly’s team record.

Six Flags Darien Lake is switching over to spooky time from this Saturday till October 21st. The kid friendly Boo by Day! with trick or treating and family friendly activities will be held from noon to 6pm on Saturdays. At 6 though is when the Awakening happens and the scary ghosts and ghouls are set loose in the park. The park will be open till 10 p.m. on Sept. 23, 30 & Oct. 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, and 21st.  There are special Halloween themed foods and some rides will be different during the Fright Nights.  Also there are 2 haunted houses for brave park goers for an additional fee.

A former Rochester police officer is in some serious legal trouble after being accused of committing a disturbing crime. State Police say 39-year-old Shawn Jordan allegedly forced a 13-year-old girl to have sex with him. The incident allegedly happened in the Ontario County community of South Bristol sometime between April and June last year. Jordan was taken to the county jail ahead of his arraignment.

 

 

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: Senator George Borrello has joined a federal lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of New York State’s newly implemented ammunition registration law, which requires that purchasers submit to and pay for a background check for ammunition transactions. Borrello says that the law is unconstitutional and a failure in both the technological and administrative areas. Along with Senator Borrello, plaintiffs in the lawsuit include the New York State Firearms Association, Assemblyman David DiPietro, William Ortman and Aaron Dorr. The defendant is Steven A. Nigrelli, Acting Superintendent of the New York State Police.

 

The results of a brand-new poll show there are a lot of New Yorkers who are concerned about their quality of life. According to the Siena College survey, 57% of people questioned said the quality of life in the Empire State is getting worse compared to 14% who said it’s getting better. And, over 80% believe that the cost of living in New York is a significant problem. Other issues that are important to people include crime, immigration, and affordable housing.

 

State Police are continuing their investigation into the death of a woman on Interstate 90. Troopers were called to look into a report that a person had fallen out of a vehicle on the highway eastbound near the Interstate 290 interchange in Amherst Monday night. They arrived to discover the body of 32-year-old Gabriel Turner on the side of the road. Officials say she exited the passenger side of a tow truck while the vehicle was still moving. Witnesses are asked to call 585-344-6200.

 

The driver accused of being involved in a hit-and-run in Niagara Falls over the weekend has been arrested. Police say 31-year-old Shawnquilla Armstrong turned herself in yesterday and is now facing charges. It is alleged Armstrong drove a vehicle into a crowd in the area of 22nd Street Sunday night, which led to several people being hurt. She’s scheduled to be in court for a preliminary hearing Friday.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

Some never-before-heard recordings by The Beatles are up for auction. The collection of six tapes containing band rehearsals, unreleased albums, and interviews is expected to fetch between $300,000 and $500,000. The auction runs through Friday at https://gottahaverockandroll.com/.

 

Maine’s longest-serving senator says she’ll wear a bikini on the Senate floor to protest the relaxed dress code of the chamber. Republican Susan Collins then clarified it was a joke, and added her threat was a protest of Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s decision to suspend the Senate’s dress code. Schumer changed the dress code for Senators quietly on Friday simply by letting the sergeant-at-arms know. Although Schumer didn’t explain why, many think it’s to accommodate Pennsylvania Democratic Senator John Fetterman who wears a hoodie and gym shorts in the Senate building. He’s been casting votes from the hallway in order to avoid a breaking the former dress code rules.

Today is Wednesday, September 20th, the 263rd day of the year.

September 20 in history…

 

…In 1863, children’s author Jacob Grimm died at the age of 78. He is best known for writing “Grimm’s Fairy tales.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1958, civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. was seriously injured when a black woman stabbed him in the chest. King was making an appearance at a New York City department store. After her arrest, Izola Ware Curry reportedly said that she’d been after him for six years; “I’m glad I did it.”

 

 

 

 

…In 1968, New York Yankees legend Mickey Mantle belted his 536th and final home run of his career.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1972, former Beatle Paul McCartney was arrested for growing marijuana on his farm in Scotland.

 

 

 

 

…In 1973, singer-songwriter Jim Croce died in a plane crash in Louisiana on his way to a concert in Sherman, Texas. He was 30-years-old and preparing to retire from touring to spend time with his wife and son.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…Also in 1973, in their ‘Battle of the Sexes’, Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3, 6-3, at the Houston Astrodome.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1984, “The Cosby Show” debuted on NBC. The show, starring Bill Cosby, went on to win several Emmy Awards during its eight-year run.

 

 

 

 

…In 1988, U.S. diver Greg Louganis won the gold medal in springboard diving at the Summer Olympics — one day after he hit his head on the board during the preliminary round.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1995, the House voted to drop the national speed limit, letting states decide on how fast people could drive.

 

 

 

 

…In 2019, teen activist Greta Thunberg lead a protest rally in Manhattan over climate change.

 

A former Rochester police officer was arrested and charged with rape Tuesday, according to New York State Police.  39 year old Shawn Jordan allegedly forced a 13-year-old girl to have sex with him in the town of South Bristol in Ontario County. Troopers said this allegedly happened between April and June of 2022.  Jordan was taken to Ontario County Jail for arraignment, as the investigation continues.  He was arrested by state police back in March for allegedly exposing himself to a 16-year-old girl in an online video chat while he was still with RPD. That case was waived to a grand jury in May.

An illegal nightclub in Rochester was shut down after shots were fired Friday night.  Police responded to a noise complaint Friday evening, where a large party was being held in the Drip Lounge on North Clinton Avenue. At that time, authorities issued a noise ordinance citation.  Three hours later, police were alerted to shots fired in the lounge, and on arrival, officers said people were running out of the building.  Investigators reportedly found five handguns, an AR-style rifle, some with illegal modifications, and a mix of drugs suspected to be cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl. Lab results on the drugs are still pending.

A drag show in Albion has brought the pastors of Orleans County together in protest.  Led by Pastor Tim Lindsay of Harvest Christian Fellowship, 24 pastors and their wives signed onto an open letter which was published in the Orleans Hub.  The issue, a drag show brunch at the Lockstone in Albion on October 1st with performers coming from Rochester.  The pastors are concerned, according to the letter, with the sexualized show, which is designed and promoted as an adult event, leading to events targeted at children as some of the performers already do in Rochester.  The drag performers responded with messages saying “love is appropriate everywhere”, and “we are supposed to love everybody”.  

Senator George Borrello has joined a federal lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of New York State’s newly implemented ammunition registration law which requires that purchasers submit to and pay for a background check for ammunition transactions.  Borrello says that the law is unconstitutional and a failure in both the technological and administrative areas.  Along with Senator Borrello, plaintiffs in the lawsuit include the New York State Firearms Association, Assemblyman David DiPietro, William Ortman and Aaron Dorr. The defendant is Steven A. Nigrelli, Acting Superintendent of the New York State Police.

Fall is near and the I LOVE NY Fall Foliage Report is here.  You can track the colorful fall foliage throughout New York State with a weekly report from the I LOVE NY website.  I LOVE NY says the reports are obtained from volunteer field observers and reflect expected color conditions for the coming weekend. They are issued every Wednesday afternoon.  One report has been issued so far this season. For the week beginning September 13 and ending September 19, the first signs of colorful fall foliage were emerging in areas in the Adirondacks, the Catskills and portions of the Chautauqua-Allegheny region.

The community response to the Christmas blizzard of 2022 made Readers Digest choose Buffalo as 2023’s Nicest Place in America.  Every year Reader’s Digest searches for the Nicest Places in America which are “places where people are kind, differences are celebrated and neighbors work together to make their communities better.”  Reader’s Digest cited examples of people helping stranded motorists and opening their businesses to those trapped in the snow as well as other examples like community togetherness following tragedies the Tops Shooting and Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest on the football field.

The Batavia City School District Board of Education has approved the appointment of Ryan Winchip as the Director of Health, and Physical Education & Athletics. Winchip most recently served as Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Warsaw Central Schools. Since 2013, he coached and led teams from the modified to varsity levels. Winchip officially starts in Batavia on October 19th.

 

 

40-year-old Kevin Moore of Lockport has pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor. The investigation began in June 2022 when Moore’s ex-girlfriend took a USB drive belonging to Moore and saw that the contents included child pornography. She contacted police who turned the investigation over to the FBI. A forensic review of electronics recovered nearly 400 images. Moore faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.

 

The New York State Thruway Authority’s Board of Directors has voted to give the green light to toll hikes. Starting in January, the E-ZPass rate will increase by five percent, and a second five-percent jump will go into effect in 2027. This hike will be the first toll adjustment for E-ZPass holders in years. The Thruway Authority says that more money is needed for fiscal stability and to address infrastructure needs along the over 500-mile highway system.

 

Western New York Congressman Brian Higgins has helped introduce a new bill on Capitol Hill that is aimed at reducing gun violence. His office says the Disarm Hate Act will try and prevent people convicted of violent misdemeanor hate crimes from purchasing or possessing firearms. Higgins, a Democrat, represents the 26th District which includes Buffalo. Last year, the city was rocked by a mass shooting at a Tops supermarket that took 10 lives and left three other victims with injuries.

 

A man is facing charges after falling naked into the construction pit for the new Buffalo Bills stadium in Orchard Park. Authorities say the 29-year-old admitted to being under the influence of drugs and alcohol at the time of Sunday’s incident. He needed to be rescued from the pit and was later taken to a Buffalo hospital where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Police say this was an isolated incident and the rest of the crowd for the Bills-Raiders game was well-behaved.

 

 

Jury selection is expected to resume today in the murder trial of Kelvin Vickers. He’s the man accused of shooting and killing Rochester police officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz and attempting to murder his partner, officer Sino Seng, while they were working undercover last year. Seven jurors have been seated in this case. Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley says that finding the right people who will make up the jury is crucial so that Vickers gets a fair trial.

 

 

 

Some local universities received high marks in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 edition of the nation’s best colleges. R.I.T. is ranked the 98th best university in the nation, and 42nd in the Best Value category. St. John Fisher was named the 185th best university, and 43rd for Best Value. Nazareth University and Brockport College were ranked in the top 100 for Best Value in the northern region, with Nazareth landing at 30th and Brockport placing 63rd.

 

Amazon will be holding a hiring day later this week as it looks to fill jobs at its brand-new warehouse in Gates. People who are interested in working for the retail chain can go to the Italian American Community Center on Frank Dimino Way from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. this Friday. The facility located off of Manitou Road was supposed to open last month but has been delayed. For information on the available positions, go to hiring.amazon.com.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

Amazon is announcing a second Prime Day. Prime Big Deal Days will take place on October 10th and 11th. The event will feature deals on tech, home goods, fashion and entertainment. Customers will need to be an Amazon Prime member to get access to the offers.

 

 

A Texas woman is celebrating her completion of a Disney-themed jigsaw puzzle after more than three years. Emily Seidel, a 29-year-old puzzle enthusiast, started assembling the 40,000-piece puzzle in February 2020, just before the pandemic came to town. The finished puzzle is about 20-feet long by about 6-feet wide, and features characters from Disney classics such as “Beauty and the Beast,” “Cinderella,” “The Little Mermaid,” and “Bambi.”

 

 

United Auto Workers president Shawn Fain has announced a new strike deadline. He says if no substantial progress in contract talks has been made by noon on Friday, September 22nd, they will call on more local unions to expand their Stand Up Strike. Currently, the automaker is striking three auto plants, one from each of the Big 3 automakers.

 

Elon Musk is hinting at a subscription fee for all users of his X social media platform. Bloomberg reports Musk told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that X will be moving to a “small monthly payment.” He claimed a subscription fee would be the only way to put a stop to ‘bot’ accounts on the platform.

 

Today is Tuesday, September 19th, the 262nd day of the year.

September 19 in history…

 

…In 1777, American soldiers won the first Battle of Saratoga against the British.

 

 

 

 

…In 1876, Melville Bissell patented the carpet sweeper.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1881, President James Garfield died of wounds inflicted by an assassin.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1947, Jackie Robinson was named baseball’s Rookie of the Year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1981, Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel reunited for a free concert in New York’s Central Park. The show was a benefit for the New York City parks.

 

 

…In 2011, Ashton Kutcher debuted on the TV series “Two and a Half Men.” He replaced Charlie Sheen on the show. two-and-a-half-men-angus-t-jones-jon-cryer-ashton-kutcher

 

Representatives from AAA say the United auto workers strike against the big three auto manufacturers most likely won’t make cars more expensive unless the strike drags on for a long time. But what they are concerned about is replacement part prices. Drivers and mechanics have already been reporting that replacement parts take weeks to acquire and are of generally lower quality than they used to be. With auto manufacturers switching to electric cars at the behest of federal and state incentives and mandates, less replacement parts for used cars are being made and third party manufacturers are making less well fitting and carefully made parts.  With the strike, the problem may become more extreme. 

Tolls will be going up on the New York State Thruway next year.  The increase, which is the state’s first toll hike in 14 years, takes effect Jan. 1, 2024, after the Thruway Authority voted to approve the move Monday.  Tolls for in-state E-ZPass holders will go up five percent, and then another five percent in 2027. New York drivers who do not have an E-ZPass will pay a hefty 75 percent more in tolls. The Thruway Authority said 85 percent of the roadway base dates back to its original construction in the 1950s, highlighting the need for heavy maintenance and reconstruction to keep the riding surface in good condition.  The upcoming adjustment comes after a 10-month long public process, which included five public hearings. 

The Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcohol and Substance Abuse has decided, since they have expanded so much in recent years, to rebrand. Effective Sept. 18, GCASA will be known as UConnectCare Behavioral Health Services – a title, according to Chief Executive Officer John Bennett, “that captures the full scope of what we do and who we are, providing a full spectrum of substance use disorder services, while also supporting the mental and physical health needs of the people we serve.”  GCASA, UConnectCare, has been working on expanding services into providing homes for people in mental and physical health emergencies, inpatient and outpatient care, more options for counseling and providing a variety assistance for substance use disorder sufferers. 

Farmers are warning drivers that more tractors and trucks carrying crops and silage will be on the road in coming weeks.  These slower moving vehicles need a bit more room on the road and move a bit slower than the speed limit. In 2021, in the US more than 450 fatalities were in the agriculture sector, and in NYS road-related crashes involving cars and farm equipment were the second-leading cause of farm-related deaths.  Farmers are asking for a little more time and a little bit more attention from drivers as they do their work.

A 29 year old man tried to get a sneak peek at the still under construction new Buffalo Bills Stadium in Orchard Park on Sunday according to police.  A couple of problems with his visit, he was under the influence of marijuana, cocaine and LSD.  And he was naked. The Erie County Sheriff’s Office said around 12:18 p.m. on Sunday, just before the Buffalo Bills home opener began, Erie Community College security was flagged down by a concerned citizen for a person who appeared in distress.  Security followed the man after he scaled the 10 foot fence around the construction site as he ran into the stadium and fell down 2 parts of the construction. Security said that each part was about a 15 foot fall.  After he fell police and EMS were alerted. The man, who was also covered in human feces, was taken to ECMC for treatment for his injuries. He was charged with criminal trespass and released after being transferred to Buffalo General.  

A handful of local universities received some high marks in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2024 edition of the nation’s best colleges.  R.I.T. is ranked the 98th best university in the nation, and 42nd in the Best Value category. St. John Fisher was named the 185th best university, and 43rd for Best Value.  Nazareth University and Brockport College were ranked in the top 100 for Best Value in the northern region, with Nazareth landing at 30th and Brockport placing 63rd.

If you signed up and were selected for an apartment in Ellicott Station there is bad news. Letters and emails have been sent telling those who were getting ready to move to Ellicott Station that the apartments were not going to be finished for the foreseeable future and residents should look elsewhere for housing. Since Savarino Construction Company declared bankruptcy and ceased all operations the site sits unfinished. Developers have expressed interest, but the city doesn’t own the property and has no say in how things move forward. For those looking for an apartment with similar income qualifications of Ellicott Station, Genesee County has a website with subsidized housing. Here’s a direct link:

https://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/office_for_the_aging/housing_-_subsidized.php

 

40-year-old Anita Miller of Jamestown has been indicted on multiple counts of stealing gift cards and cash from the mail, charges that also include delaying the mail by a postal employee. In one instance, she’s accused of removing a Tops gift card from an envelope, resealing the envelope and placing it back into a delivery tray a few days later. Miller faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

 

Gas prices are decreasing ever so slightly at the pump. According to Triple A today, the average price for a gallon of regular in Batavia is $3.84. That’s down 3 cents from a month ago and 8 cents from a year ago today. The state average is higher with 3.92 and the national average price is 3.88. Experts are saying that the price of gas will dip as we head into fall and fewer people are taking road trips.

 

 

Jury selection is scheduled to begin today in the trial of a man accused of killing a Rochester police officer. Prosecutors say Kelvin Vickers murdered Anthony Mazurkiewicz last year. Officer Sino Seng, who was Mazurkiewicz’s partner, was also hit by gunfire but survived. Both officers were in an unmarked vehicle at the time of the shooting. The trial is expected to last up to five weeks.

 

 

 

A brand-new law is now in effect in New York requiring businesses with four or more workers to disclose compensation ranges. That information must be posted in all advertisements for job, transfer, and promotion opportunities. Those ranges need to include the minimum and maximum annual salary or hourly compensation. Employers also must make it clear if a position is commission-based. Supporters say this measure will help people make informed decisions about their careers.

 

A new report shows the number of tobacco-related cancers has dropped in the Empire State. According to the State Health Department, the cancers most closely related to tobacco use, laryngeal, lung, and esophageal have declined. However oral cancer went up by over one percent during the time period between 2016 and 2020 among people who live outside New York City. Youth cigarette smoking rates have decreased to an all-time low of slightly above 2%.

 

 

Josh Allen bounced back in a big way against the Raiders. After 4 turnovers against the Jets he committed no turnovers while going 31-37 through the air for 274 yards and three touchdowns. The final score, Buffalo 38, Raiders 10. While Allen and the offense were great Sunday, it really was a team effort. The defense came up big, as well, holding the Raiders to just 10 points and keeping Josh Jacobs to negative two rushing yards. On offense, James Cook had his first 100-yard rushing game. The Bills travel to Washington, DC to take on the Commanders this Sunday, with another 1:00 game time.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

A Minnesota couple that were born on the same day in the same hospital in Coon Rapids has now gotten married. Joshua and Elizabeth Colbert tied the knot in Cambridge last week. The couple has only been dating for about six months, but discovered several unusual similarities when discussing their backgrounds. In addition to sharing a birthday, they also went to the same Christian school in Blaine during kindergarten. After deciding to get married, they invited their kindergarten teacher to the wedding ceremony. The couple shouldn’t have any trouble remembering their anniversary since they got married on September 13th, which is their shared birthday.

 

The ‘Halloween’ house is for sale. The house Jamie Lee Curtis’ character, Laurie Strode, called home in the movie franchise is on sale for about $1.8 million. The house that Michael Myers terrorized in the movies is set in the fictional town of Haddonfield, Illinois. But, in reality, it’s in South Pasadena in Los Angeles County. The 1978 ‘Halloween’ film was filmed at the house rather than a sound stage.

 

Today is Monday, September 18th, the 261st day of the year.

September 18 in history…

 

…In 1793, President George Washington lays the foundation for the U.S. Capitol.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1927, the Columbia Phonograph Broadcasting Company debuted with a network of 16 radio stations. The company later became known as CBS.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1964, “The Addams Family” debuted on ABC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1965, “I Dream of Jeannie” debuted on NBC. Larry Hagman and Barbara Eden starred in the popular sitcom.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1975, the FBI captured newspaper heiress Patty Hearst in San Francisco, 19 months after Hearst was kidnapped by the Symbionese Liberation Army.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1983, the rock group, Kiss, appeared without their trademark makeup for the first time during a performance on MTV.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1985, David Letterman read “The Top Ten List” for the first time on “Late Night with David Letterman.” The list was titled “Things That Almost Rhyme With Peas.”

 

 

 

…In 2009, the CBS soap opera “The Guiding Light” aired its final episode after a 72-year run on radio and television.

 

 

 

 

…In 2017, Toys R Us filed for bankruptcy. Filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection allowed the company to deal with nearly $5 billion in debt.

 

Police are investigating two isolated bomb threats one made against a church in Fairport and one made against a temple in Geneva on Sunday.  The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office evacuated the Mountain Rise United Church of Christ after receiving information about a bomb threat there.  The Church hosts Jewish services on Saturdays in addition to its regular Sunday service that was going on as deputies arrived.  Deputies evacuated the church out of an abundance of caution and searched the building with canine units.  Law enforcement did not find any bombs at the temple in Geneva or the Mountain Rise United Church of Christ and they said there is no danger to the public.  An investigation into that disturbance and the two bomb threats is ongoing.

If you signed up and were selected for an apartment in Ellicott Station there is bad news.  Letters and emails went out on Friday telling those who were getting ready to move to Ellicott Station that the apartments were not going to be finished for the foreseeable future and residents should look elsewhere for housing.  Since Savarino Construction Company declared bankruptcy and ceased all operations the site has been in unfinished limbo.  City Manager Rachael Tabelski has said that developers have expressed interest in the property, but the city doesn’t own the property and has no say in how it proceeds from here.  For those looking for an apartment with similar income qualifications of Ellicott Station, Genesee County has a website with subsidized housing.  You can follow the link on wbtai.com for more information.  

https://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/office_for_the_aging/housing_-_subsidized.php

https://pathstone.org/housing-services/

For the first time, law enforcement in Genesee County are getting vital training in dealing with mental health in crisis settings.  8 law enforcement officers graduated from the first Crisis Intervention training held at Genesee Community College.  They were taught by Investigator David Moore with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and Lynda Battaglia, Director of Mental Health and Community Services for Genesee County, who attended a Train the Trainer for Crisis Intervention training in early spring.  According to Battaglia, a lot of law enforcement already have the skills needed during a crisis response, it’s just putting the situation into context.  Police are usually the first ones on the scene when there is a mental health emergency and first responders are called.  

New York employers are now required to include the minimum and maximum annual salary or hourly range for compensation in any job advertisement.  The new law, which took effect Sunday, was signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul last year — and it applies to all employers who have four or more employees. As part of the Pay Transparency Law’s enforcement, NYSDOL holds the authority to ensure compliance, and individuals are encouraged to file complaints if job advertisements do not contain compensation ranges. NYSDOL is committed to a strong enforcement and penalty structure for those employers that refuse to comply.  NYSDOL will create guidance to educate 500,000 businesses, workers, and job seekers as it conducts the public outreach campaign required by this new law.

Gas prices are increasing slightly at the pump but locals are paying less for gas than elsewhere.  A gallon of regular gas in Batavia costs 3.84.  That’s up 1 penny from last week and down by two cents since last month.  A year ago it was 3.92.  The state average is higher with 3.92. And nationally the average is 3.88.  Experts are saying that the price of gas will dip as we head into fall and less people are traveling and needing to fill up.  

Josh Allen bounced back in a big way against the Raiders.  After 4 turnovers against the Jets he committed no turnovers while going 31-37 through the air for 274 yards and three touchdowns.  The final score, Buffalo 38, Raiders 10.  While Allen and the offense were great Sunday, it really was a team effort. The defense came up big, holding the Raiders to just 10 points and keeping Josh Jacobs to negative two rushing yards. On offense, James Cook had his first 100-yard rushing game.

After the Supreme Court deigned not to take on a challenge to New York’s gun laws Governor Hochul moved to strengthen red flag laws in the Empire State.  The new legislation would eliminate index number fees for applications for Extreme Risk Protection Orders.  Index fees are standard fees for court filings that needed to be paid before a protection order could be brought in court.  Governor Hochul says this will eliminate financial barriers to making a community safer.  

A crash in Pavilion left one person injured, and it took hours for the merchandise to be picked up.  A tractor trailer and a passenger vehicle crossed the intersection of Ellicott Street Road and Starr Road at the same time at about 10:30am on Thursday, leading to the tractor trailer hauling merchandise ending up off the road and products spilling out of it.  Seven hours later, workers were still removing the merchandise from the truck and loading it into another trailer.  One driver was injured in the crash.  

Police are investigating after a frightening crash involving a stolen car and a Target store.  Police said they located a stolen vehicle in the parking lot of the Chili Target just after 1:45 pm.  The suspects drove the car around the police vehicle and then into the store’s vestibule.  No one was injured and the police took 3 people into custody. 

Governor Hochul announced on Friday that the New York State government is going to end car thefts in the City of Rochester.  The plan is to give law enforcement 50 million dollars, 5 million for youth engagement programs, partnering with law enforcement agencies to share data, and updated prosecution.  Kia and Hyundai owners are also being sent letters from Hochul, recommending they go to their local dealership and install anti-theft software.  Over the past year, car thefts in Monroe County have risen 345 percent, while Erie County has seen a 213 percent increase. Hochul said Western New York has the highest car theft rate in the entire state.  In the press conference she said that car thieves have “reached the end of their road.”

An investigation is underway after a teen was shot on Rochester’s north side Friday afternoon.  Officers responded to Avenue B just before 4:15 p.m., where they found a 16-year-old boy who had been shot.  He was reportedly taken to the hospital and is expected to survive.  Police centered their investigation on a house on Avenue B, where they took one person into custody.  Officers said there is no danger to the community, and the investigation is ongoing.

New legislation has passed the State Senate to make drivers ed teach what to do when you get pulled over.  Motorists taking a driver’s education or defensive driving course would learn “the responsibilities of a driver when being stopped by a law enforcement officer.”  Some of these responsibilities include: Turning off the motor vehicle’s engine and radio, avoiding sudden movements and keeping the driver’s hands in plain view of the officer.  Driver’s education and defensive driving classes do not currently require information on traffic stop procedures.  The bill will be voted on by the New York State Assembly next.

45-year-old Jeremiah Krupp of Batavia has been arrested and now faces two charges of criminal contempt. It’s alleged he violated a stay-away order of protection by calling and threatening the protected party. Krupp was held at the Genesee County Jail for CAP Court.

 

A grand jury has indicted two people for their alleged roles in a fatal drive-by shooting in Rochester earlier this year. Prosecutors say 18-year-old Keyvin Miller and 26-year-old Kirsean Chatfield were involved in the shooting death of 21-year-old Eric Martin in May. Martin had just dropped off a family member on Dewey Avenue when several shots ended up being fired in his direction and he was killed. Investigators don’t believe he was the intended target. Miller and Chatfield are due in court next month.

 

Two police officers and a Good Samaritan are being called heroes following a rescue at the Erie Canal in Brockport. On Sunday, officers responded to the area of Merchant Street after getting a report of someone in the water. They arrived to find a woman struggling to stay above water and saying her friend could not swim. The officers and the Good Samaritan worked together to get the two to safety and both individuals are already out of the hospital.

 

Nearly 150,000 United Auto Workers members across the country including thousands in Western New York are teaming up to fight for better pay and benefits. During a live-streamed announcement late Thursday evening, union leaders laid out the details of a strategic strike in which workers at different plants go on strike at different times. According to previous reports by the Associated Press, the union is demanding a 36% boost in pay over four years, and the automakers countered with offers that are roughly half of that increase. Ford and GM have both offered a 20% increase, and GM is offering 10% in the first year. In western NY there are 3 plants employing roughly 3500 people in Buffalo, Tonawanda and Lockport. It’s unclear how long the strike could last, but supply chain experts warn that a strike similar to the one in 2019 that lasted nearly 40 days would have drastically worse consequences, including a 30% decrease in vehicle production.

 

State Police have arrested a Western New York man after accusing him of sexually abusing multiple children. Troopers say they received a complaint about the alleged abuse of kids who were under the age of ten years old. An investigation led to 21-year-old Carry Keyser of Allegany County facing several charges. After being taken into custody, Keyser was sent to the county jail.

 

 

 

Some new policies are now in effect for football games involving Buffalo Public Schools teams. Each player and cheerleader will be able to invite three student spectators to each home contest. Adults can also attend so long as they provide proper ID and minors must be accompanied by an adult. Last week, a brawl broke out during a game at All-High Stadium, which resulted in several arrests.

 

The Buffalo Bills are hoping the support of their home crowd helps push the team to its first victory of the season. The defending AFC East champions are hosting the Las Vegas Raiders at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. The Bills are coming off a devastating 22 to 16 overtime loss to the New York Jets on Monday night. Kickoff for Sunday’s contest is set for 1:00.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

Researchers with NOAA are still marveling over the discovery of an unidentified organism found off the Gulf of Alaska. Scientists found the golden orb-like organism late last month during an expedition by Seascape Alaska. It is dome-shaped and smooth and gold in color. They don’t know what it is but they’ll be working in the lab to find out.

 

Tropical storm warnings are being issued in several states as Hurricane Lee barrels toward New England. WFXT in Boston says the hurricane is on track to bring wind damage and flooding to the state this weekend. The National Weather Service says Lee will pass offshore of New England on Saturday, but its impact will be felt far from the storm’s center.

 

Health experts are warning of another “tripledemic” this cold and flu season. The CDC predicted Thursday that COVID-19, RSV and influenza will be impacting the healthcare system much the same way it did last season. For the first time ever, vaccines for all three respiratory viruses could be available at many hospitals.

 

Former President Trump says it’s “very unlikely” he’d pardon himself if he were elected in 2024. Speaking with Kristen Welker on NBC’s Meet the Press, he claimed he did nothing wrong. The former president has been indicted four times this year, twice in federal court and twice in state courts.

 

The top prize up for grabs tonight in Mega Millions is $162 million. Whoever chooses all six winning numbers for Powerball tomorrow night will get $596 million. Both drawings will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

 

 

 

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is taking the first steps towards recovery after tearing his Achilles tendon. Mark Mayfield has details:

 

Today is Friday, September 15th, the 258th day of the year.

September 15 in history…

…In 1853, the South Butler Congregational Church recognized Antoinette Brown Blackwell as its minister, making her the first ordained woman minister in the United States.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1949, “The Lone Ranger” premiered on ABC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1954, a blast of air from a vent on 51st Street and Lexington Avenue in New York City lifted Marilyn Monroe’s dress while filming a scene for the film “The Seven Year Itch.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1965, the crime drama “I Spy” debuted on NBC. It was the first show to feature an African-American in a leading role: Bill Cosby. Robert Culp was his co-star.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1981, the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee unanimously approved Sandra Day O’Connor for the U.S. Supreme Court. This would make her the first woman to ever become a justice on the Supreme Court. She served from 1981 until 2006.

 

 

 

…In 1997, google.com was registered as a domain name. However, Google didn’t launch its webpage until a year later, on September 27th 1998.

 

 

 

 

…In 2008, opening statements began in the armed robbery and kidnapping case involving former football star O.J. Simpson in Las Vegas. Simpson and his golfing buddy Clarence Stewart stood accused of burglary, armed robbery, coercion and kidnapping after they allegedly stole memorabilia items from two dealers at the Palace Station hotel in September 2007 with a group of men. Simpson was later convicted and sentenced to prison time.

 

…In 2015, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that the social networking site is working on a “dislike” button.

Nearly 150,000 UAW members across the country including thousands in Western New York are putting their foot down and teaming up to fight for better pay and benefits.  During a live-streamed announcement late Thursday evening, union leaders laid out the details of a strategic strike in which workers at different plants go on strike at different times.  According to previous reports by the Associated Press, the union is demanding a 36% boost in pay over four years, and the automakers, General Motors, Ford and Stellantis — formerly Fiat Chrysler — countered with offers that are roughly half of that increase. Ford and GM have both offered a 20% increase, and GM is offering 10% in the first year. Stellantis’ last known offer was 17.5%, but the company has since made another offer.  In western NY there are 3 plants employing roughly 3500 people in Buffalo, Tonawanda and Lockport.  It’s unclear how long the strike could last, but supply chain experts warn that a strike similar to the one in 2019 that lasted nearly 40 days would have drastically worse consequences, including a 30% decrease in vehicle production.

Two men, 18 year old Keyvin Miller and 26 year old Kirsean Chatfield, have been indicted for murder in connection to a fatal drive-by shooting and another incident that happened later the same day.  21 year old Eric Martin had just dropped off a family member at work May 31 on Dewey Avenue when a passenger in another vehicle fired more than a dozen shots toward him and hit him at least once, according to police. He later died from his injuries.  Nearly an hour later, two vehicles were struck by gunfire as a passenger in a stolen vehicle fired shots toward a group of people standing outside on Parsells Avenue.  Investigators determined the same suspects were responsible for both incidents and had ditched one stolen vehicle for another between the two incidents. Chatfield was arrested once for attacking his girlfriend with a knife in front of officers and then again for firing a gun at a home on Barton Street from a stolen vehicle.  Both times he was released and issued appearance tickets.  Miller was arrested Aug. 17 after police said gunshots were fired into a home on Roycroft Drive.  Both are now being held without bail.

State Police have arrested a Western New York man after accusing him of sexually abusing multiple children. Troopers say they received a complaint about the alleged abuse of kids who were under the age of ten years old. An investigation led to 21-year-old Carry Keyser of Allegany County facing several charges. After being taken into custody, Keyser was sent to the county jail.

Corrections Officers and community members held a remembrance ceremony for the Attica Prison Riot on Wednesday.  It has been 52 years since the deadly riot where prisoners took over parts of the facility and held hostages.  The riot went on for 4 days and ended when state police retook the prison by force.  43 men died including 33 inmates and 10 officers.  Every year, on Sept. 13, there are two ceremonies on prison grounds in remembrance of the riot, which started on Sept. 9 and ended on Sept. 13. The first service focuses on victims and families of victims who died. The second is a state service remembering the riot.

The Buffalo Zoo announced it has welcomed a new red panda named Mogwai from the Pueblo Zoo in Colorado.  The zoo said Mogwai is a year and a half old and was moved to Buffalo based on a recommendation from the Species Survival Plan for Red Pandas from The Association of Zoos and Aquariums.  The zoo’s other male, Scout, will move to the Pueblo Zoo where he will be paired with a female.  According to the Buffalo Zoo, it hopes to bring a female in to be a mate with Mogwai in a year or so based on the SSP recommendation.  The zoo said Mogwai is out in the red panda exhibit and can usually be seen sleeping in the trees or above the glass viewing window.

The Anna Ingalsbe Lovell chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution is pleased to provide Patriotic material in the Genesee County Libraries and in all 6 school districts and the Genesee Region Teacher Center in celebration of Constitution Week September 17-23.  Each bag includes color informative posters, a laminated copy of the Pledge of Allegiance in American Sign language, Braille, and a copy in tri-fold format, DAR membership information, pocket-size copies of the U.S. Constitution, and a packet of bookmarker “Preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America”.  The Dar is made up of members who can trace their lineage directly to someone who fought in the American Revolutionary War and they work to make a difference in their community and honor their legacy.

A youth pastor has pleaded guilty to attempting to take videos of a young girl to make child pornography. 39-year-old Nathan Rogers of East Aurora set up cameras in a camper at Six Flags Darien Lake Amusement Park and then invited a minor girl to change out of her bathing suit inside the camper. She discovered the cameras, attempted to delete images and then called 911. Authorities found nude pictures of the girl on the phones. Rogers pleaded guilty to attempted receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a fine of $250,000.

 

 

32-year-old Brandon Baker of Kendall has pleaded guilty to criminal mischief. He caused $651 damage to a sink and faucet in the Orleans County Jail. Baker received 1 to 3 years for that crime. He also pleaded guilty to obstruction of breathing and received 364 days in the County Jail, to be served concurrently with the other sentence. Baker used his forearm to pin a woman against a wall, making it difficult for her to breathe. At sentencing, the woman spoke, saying she feared for her safety. She advocated for the maximum sentence. The judge issued an order of protection for her until 2034. Baker acknowledged he has anger issues and has been taking anger management classes while in the jail. He also apologized to the victim and to the county for the damage to the jail.

 

21-year-old Isaiah Marsh of Medina was arraigned on two counts each of criminal sexual act and sexual abuse, as well as endangering the welfare of a child. He allegedly had sexual contact with an underage girl. Marsh was held on bail; the judge also issued a stay-away order.

 

State officials are urging New Yorkers to get the new COVID-19 vaccine shot that’s going to be available by the end of this week. They’re making this request due to an ongoing increase in the spread of the illness. Right now, there are no plans to put any mask or vaccine mandates in place. Nursing homes are being required to make the new shot available to residents.

 

The Strong National Museum Hall of Fame in Rochester has announced the toys that are candidates for induction into the National Toy Hall of Fame. Among the list of 12 are Battleship, Connect Four, baseball cards, Bingo, Nerf toys, slime and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. People can vote online for their favorites until September 20th. The winning toys will be made public in November.

 

Governor Hochul has signed new legislation that’s aimed at cracking down on those annoying telemarketing calls. The measure will help reduce the number of those calls by almost doubling the maximum fine telemarketers who violate the Do Not Call Registry will have to pay. Last year, the governor also approved a bill giving people the chance to be added to a company’s do-not-call list at the beginning of telemarketing calls. She says this new law sends a message that New York won’t tolerate these calls.

 

Two Niagara County daycare workers are in trouble with the law after being accused of abusing children. According to investigators, 22-year-old Victoria Stanton and 66-year-old Karon Anterline used excessive force against kids. Stanton and Anterline were employed at the Sweet Angels Daycare in Newfane at the time these alleged crimes occurred. Both are charged with child endangerment and are due back in court later this month.

 

 

 

Delaware North has revealed the brand-new food items that are going to be available to Buffalo Bills fans at Highmark Stadium this season. Among the items that can be purchased include gluten-free wraps, a brisket sandwich, spicy chicken sandwich, and a build-your-own hot dog bar. These food offerings will be at various locations throughout the stadium. The first home game for the Bills is this Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

One of the most popular basketball teams on the planet will be taking the court in Rochester next year. The Harlem Globetrotters are set to battle the Washington Generals at the Blue Cross Arena on February 3rd. Since being founded in 1926, the Globetrotters have played in over 120 countries and been inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Tickets go on sale later this month the box office or through Ticketmaster.

 

 

The United Auto Workers Union is preparing for a strike against Detroit’s Big Three automakers. On Wednesday, union president Shawn Fain ruled out any extension of the existing contracts with GM, Ford and Stellantis after they expire Thursday night. Fain said, “September 14th is a deadline, not a reference point.”

 

 

Former President Trump will be taping an interview today for NBC’s “Meet the Press.” Sources tell CNN that the interview to air this Sunday will be taped at Trump’s Bedminster golf club in New Jersey. NBC News says it’s being pre-taped so that Trump’s claims can be fact-checked and put in context.

 

 

 

A Vincent van Gogh painting worth millions was returned this week, more than three years after it was stolen from a museum in the Netherlands. A thief used a sledgehammer to break into the museum on March 30th, 2020, the Dutch post-impressionist’s birthday, and walked out with the 1884 painting under his arm. An anonymous tipster returned it on Monday to Dutch art crime detective Arthur Brand.

 

Inflation is jumping. New data reveals the Consumer Price Index increased 3.7%, up from 3.2% in July. The CPI is the best measure of inflation, measuring consumer prices of anything from groceries to gas.

 

 

Today is Thursday, September 14th, the 257th day of the year.

September 14 in history…

 

…In 1741, composer George Frederic Handel completed “The Messiah.” The piece is also known as “The Hallelujah Chorus.” It became one of his most popular works.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1814, Francis Scott Key composed the lyrics to “The Star Spangled Banner” after watching the British bombard Maryland’s Fort McHenry during the War of 1812.

 

 

 

…In 1901, President William McKinley died of gunshot wounds inflicted by an assassin. He was 58. Theodore Roosevelt was sworn in as the 26th and youngest man to serve as President at age 42.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1939, the VS-300, the world’s first practical helicopter, took flight at Stratford, Connecticut. Designed by Igor Sikorsky and built by a division of the United Aircraft Corporation, the helicopter was the first to incorporate a single main rotor and tail rotor design.

 

 

 

 

…In 1978, “Mork and Mindy,” starring Robin Williams and Pam Dawber, debuted on ABC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1985, “The Golden Girls” starring Bea Arthur, Betty White, Rue McClanahan, and Estelle Getty, debuted on NBC. The lead actresses all won Emmy Awards – Arthur, McClanahan and White won the award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series and Getty won for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.

 

 

 

…In 1994, a strike by players in the Major League Baseball forced the World Series to be canceled. The strike was over salary cap and other pending changes to the league.

 

 

 

…In 2009, Hollywood star Patrick Swayze died after a 20-month battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 57. Swayze’s memorable film roles include “Dirty Dancing,” “Ghost,” “Road House,” “Point Break” and “The Outsiders.”

 

After a two-week search, escaped murderer Danelo Cavalcante is in custody.  Pennsylvania State Police announced his capture Wednesday morning and said he was apprehended shortly after 8 a.m.  Video showed him in handcuffs with his Philadelphia Eagles sweatshirt being cut and being put into a van to be transported.  Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said Cavalcante was apprehended with no shots fired and thanked law enforcement for their work on the manhunt.  Cavalcante was arraigned at the Avondale barracks on an escape charge, according to the office of Judge Matthew Seavey.  A preliminary hearing was scheduled for Sept. 27.  Pennsylvania Authorities say they are planning to cover the area of the prison that Cavalcante escaped from with a roof.

A youth pastor pleaded guilty to attempting to take videos of a young girl to make child porn.  39 year old Nathan Rogers of East Aurora set up cameras in a camper at Six Flags Darien Lake Amusement park and then invited a minor girl to change out of her bathing suit inside the camper.  She discovered the cameras and called 911.  Authorities found nude pictures of the girl on the cameras, which were iphones.  Rogers pleaded guilty to attempted receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a fine of $250,000.

Delaware North has revealed the brand-new food items that are going to be available to Buffalo Bills fans at Highmark Stadium this season. Among the  items that can be purchased include gluten-free wraps, a brisket sandwich, spicy chicken sandwich, and a build-your-own hot dog bar. These food offerings will be at various locations throughout the stadium. The first home game for the Bills is this Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Orleans County is suing Genesee County to stop the construction of the waste water pipeline from the STAMP facility to Oak Orchard Creek.  The 9.5-mile long pipe along Route 63 that has been under construction since Aug. 3 and would dump up to 6 million gallons of wastewater a day into the creek.  Previously the pipeline was heavily protested at county meetings by Native Americans and concerned residents.  Orleans County says that the GCEDC is illegally funding a project outside of Genesee County and never asked permission to build the pipeline in Orleans County.  A spokesperson for the Genesee County Economic Development Corporation said that the wastewater is completely safe and well within amounts that would impact the creek.  He pointed all inquiries to the website that has been set up to address questions about the pipeline.  If you want to read up on the dispute you can go to wbtai.com and follow the link.  https://www.gcedc.com/STAMPDischargeFAQ

The Batavia City School District announced Wednesday that Batavia High School has earned high national and metro-area rankings on the 2023-2024 Best High Schools list from U.S. News and World Report.  Batavia High School earned a national ranking in the top 40% of U.S.-based public high schools out of nearly 18,000 schools. A top statistic included in the ranking was Batavia High School’s impressive 98% graduation rate, which is “well above state median.”  Batavia High School previously received this honor in 2022 and 2014.

Iconic actor and comedian Adam Sandler is coming to the Flower City this fall!  The “Happy Gilmore” actor is swinging by Rochester for his I Missed You stand-up comedy tour, which will take over the Blue Cross Arena on Wednesday, Nov. 8.  He’s also holding a show at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto the day prior on Tuesday, Nov. 7.  The tour starts in Vancouver Oct. 12 and will span across 25 cities in North America.  Tickets go on sale Friday.

Gun and ammo dealers in Western NY are supposed to be starting the background checks on ammo purchases today but many are saying they have been given no information on what they are supposed to do. Several gun shop owners say they have followed advice from the State Police and registered online but there is still no information, including what the background check questions are. As a result, stores will be unable to sell ammunition without knowing how to complete the required background checks.

 

Jury selection is expected to begin next week in the murder trial of Kelvin Vickers. On Monday, the defense and prosecution will start the process of picking the panel that will decide Vickers’ fate. Vickers is accused of shooting and killing Rochester Police Officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz last year. Mazurkiewicz’s partner, Officer Sino Seng, was also hit by gunfire but survived. The trial is expected to last up to five weeks.

 

Former Irondequoit police chief Alan Laird is facing possible prison time. It’s alleged that Laird and Steven Rosenbaum, his business partner in a local security business, cashed checks from clients, failing to report over $5 million in earnings from 2016 to 2021. Court documents state that over the five-year period, Laird and Rosenbaum did not report more than $5 million of income. Instead of depositing checks from clients into a business bank account, they cashed them at a local business. Prosecutors allege that approximately $2.5 million was used to pay employees, with the remainder being split between Laird and Rosenbaum. Laird is ordered to pay restitution to the IRS, which his attorney expects him to have paid in full by sentencing. Laird could face up to three years behind bars.

 

State Attorney General Letitia James is calling on the National Weather Service to take action that may end up saving lives. James wants alerts to be sent out to cell phones warning people of dangerous weather events such as ice storms and snowstorms. The AG is citing last year’s deadly blizzard in Western New York as a reason why these alerts are needed. Dozens of people died between December 23rd and 27th, and many locations had to deal with several feet of snowfall.

 

Niagara Outfitters is offering folks the opportunity to take a tour along the Erie Canal free of charge. The local business says people can use electric bikes during their trip that goes through Middleport and Lockport and lasts about two hours. The tours are open to anyone 16 and older and are scheduled to start this weekend. To find out more information, visit niagaraoutfitters.com.

 

 

New York Governor Kathy Hochul says lawmakers are entertaining every option when it comes to solving New York’s asylum seeker crisis. The governor is working on language that would grant migrants work authorization at the state level. More than 100,000 new arrivals have become dependent on New York City’s right to shelter law, weighing on city resources.

 

The co-owner of the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres has been named in a lawsuit accusing him of making racist remarks. The legal action taken by former reporter Jim Trotter against the NFL claims that Terry Pegula made offensive comments involving Black football players; Trotter says the NFL did not renew his contact because he challenged top league officials regarding the NFL’s lack of diversity and history of discrimination. Pegula says Trotter’s allegations against him are false and racism has no place in society.

 

Josh Allen blames himself for the Bill’s loss to the Jets and Coach Sean McDermott agrees. When asked after the game about the loss, McDermott talked about the 4 turnovers that Allen was responsible for. He said Allen can play better and smarter. McDermott also said that this kind of sloppy play will not win in this league. The team will try to get to 1-1 coming up on Sunday when they play their first home game against the Raiders at 1:00.

 

Former Syracuse University and Buffalo Bills wide receiver Mike Williams has passed away at the age of 36. Williams died yesterday in Tampa, Florida days after being seriously injured in a construction accident that left him partially paralyzed. Williams grew up in Buffalo and played for Syracuse from 2006 until 2009. During his career in the NFL, he had over 3,000 yards receiving and scored more than 20 touchdowns. He leaves behind an eight-year-old daughter.

 

ELSEWHERE…

McDonalds is planning to make some big changes. The Chicago-based fast-food giant says it will eliminate self-serve soda and beverage stations in dining rooms across the nation by 2032. That means customers will no longer be handed cups to fill up on their own. The move comes as the company has seen a recent surge in business through its drive-thru and delivery services.

 

Dozens of ducks have decided to make a backyard swimming pool their home. A family in Apple Valley, in the Inland Empire of Southern California, believes they know why the feathered friends decided to stop by and stay. The homeowner says they get other unusual birds in their backyard as well. Recently they’ve been visited by turkey vultures.

 

 

CAPTURED: After two weeks on the run, the convicted killer who escaped from a Pennsylvania prison has been captured. Authorities announced the arrest of Danelo Cavalcante this morning, with further details expected in the coming hour. The 34-year-old Brazilian native had just been sentenced to life in prison the week before he scaled a wall and broke out of the Chester County Prison. Cavalcante was convicted of brutally stabbing his former girlfriend to death in front of her two young children.

 

Cases of flesh-eating bacteria may be on the rise in the U.S. Some experts think climate change is fueling the expansion of the Vibrio bacteria, which thrives in brackish water and is more commonly a problem in Florida, Louisiana and Texas. But this summer there was a death in Missouri, two in Connecticut, one in New York and three in North Carolina from the bacteria.

 

The American Red Cross is sounding the alarm about a nationwide shortage of blood. The agency says the problem is due to fewer people deciding to roll up their sleeves and donate during the summer months. The Red Cross is currently trying to recover from a 30,000 blood and platelet donation shortfall in August. Anyone who is interested in donating can find a clinic in their area by heading to redcrossblood.org.

 

This week’s Monday Night Football game was the most-watched in ESPN history. More than 22-million viewers saw the matchup between the New York Jets and Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium. The previous record was set during a 2009 game between the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers when quarterback Brett Favre made his return to Lambeau Field.

 

Today is Wednesday, September 13th, the 256th day of the year.

September 13 in history…

…In 1948, Republican Representative Margaret Chase Smith defeated Democrat Adrian H. Scolten by a margin of 71 to 29-percent. She became the first woman to represent Maine in the Senate, and the first woman to serve in both houses of Congress.

 

 

 

…In 1953, Marilyn Monroe made her official television debut on “The Jack Benny Show.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1963, Mary Kay cosmetics was founded by nine people sitting around Mary Kay Ash’s kitchen table.

 

 

 

 

…In 1969, “Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!” premiered on CBS.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1971, the four-day uprising at New York’s Attica Correctional Facility came to an end. 42 people died when 1,500 National Guardsmen and state police stormed the prison.

 

 

 

…In 1977, the television show “Soap” debuted on ABC. It was the first show to include a viewer discretion warning.

 

 

 

…In 1983, the U.S. mint struck the first gold coin in 50 years — the Olympic Eagle.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1986, “Pee-Wee’s Playhouse,” starring Paul Reubens, debuted on CBS. In its entire run the show won 15 Emmys.

 

 

 

…In 1992, the Buffalo Bills and the San Francisco 49ers set an NFL record when neither team punted the ball throughout the entire game. Jim Kelly and Steve Young each threw for more than 400 yards. The Bills won 34-31.

 

 

 

 

…In 2004, to celebrate the 19th season opener of her highly-rated talk show, Oprah Winfrey surprised the 276 members of her studio audience with new cars. Every audience member received a Pontiac G-6 sedan worth $28,600. Making the giveaway worth nearly $8 million.

Former Irondequoit police chief Alan Laird is facing possible prison time, according to prosecutors.  They allege that Laird and Steven Rosenbaum, his business partner in Swoop 1, Inc., a local security business, cashed checks from clients, failing to report over $5 million in earnings from 2016 to 2021.  Court documents state that over the five-year period, Laird and Rosenbaum did not report more than $5 million of income. Instead of depositing checks from clients into a business bank account, they cashed them at a local business.  Prosecutors allege that approximately $2.5 million were used to pay employees, with the remainder being split between Laird and Rosenbaum.  Laird is ordered to pay restitution to the IRS, which his attorney expects him to have paid in full by sentencing.  Laird could face up to three years behind bars.

Gun and ammo dealers in Western NY are supposed to be starting the background checks on ammo purchases today but many are saying they have been given no information on what they are supposed to do.  Dean Adamski of DD’s Ranch in Alden says “No dealer has been contacted by the state about how it will work.”  Several gun shop owners say they have followed the New York State Police’s advice and registered online but there is still no information.  They don’t even know what the background check questions are.  As a result, stores will be unable to sell ammunition without knowing how to complete the required background checks.

A man was shot and killed while sitting outside on Main Street near Buffalo’s University Heights neighborhood early Tuesday morning.  Detectives say the man, who has not been identified, was shot on the 3100 block of Main Street— that’s near Custer Street— after 1:50 a.m. He died at the scene.  Detectives have not named any suspects or given any identifying information on the victim.  According to Buffalo’s crime incident data, this is the 30th homicide in the city in 2023.

The new Hood expansion marks a major milestone for the Genesee Valley Agri Business Park.  Since opening in 2011, the Ag Park and supporting infrastructure has generated investments of about $607 million by HP Hood, Upstate Niagara Cooperative, Marktec Products, and O-AT-KA Milk Products in an area with over 1.2 million sq. ft. of food and beverage facilities set to employ over 1,000 professionals in the food processing industry.  HP Hood’s investment also marks another $100+ million project in Genesee County, and the fifth largest in the county’s history, four of which have been announced in just the past year.  HP Hood’s expansion includes the construction of a 32,500 sq ft building to accommodate the addition of new batching and processing systems, along with increasing capacity and beginning the production for a new product line. The project will create 48 new full-time positions.

The New York State Cannabis Control Board has finalized regulations for the adult-use cannabis market.  The move officially opens the floodgate to general licensing, meaning a broad universe of individuals and small businesses across the state will now be able to apply for licenses beginning October 4.  It paves the way for the most significant expansion of the state’s cannabis market since 2021, when cannabis was first legalized.  New cannabis retail licenses were previously on hold after a judge upheld an injunction last month.

Josh Allen blames himself for the Bill’s loss to the Jets and Coach Sean McDermott agrees.  When asked after the game about the loss, McDermott talked about the 4 turnovers that Allen was responsible for.  He said Allen can play better and smarter.  McDermott also said that this kind of sloppy play will not win in this league.  The team will try to get to 1-1 coming up on Sunday when they play their first home game against the Raiders at 1 p.m.

The Water Meters in the City of Batavia are going to be replaced starting next week. This project will replace older water meters with new advanced metering technology meters, which will increase water-use efficiency, reduce operational costs, and promote sustainable green practices. The city was awarded $730,000 in a Green Innovation Grant from the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation to do the replacements. Residents and businesses with water meters that require replacement will receive letters in the mail detailing what to expect and how to schedule your water meter replacement appointment. Photo: Doug Thompson, WBTA News.

 

The Genesee County Sheriffs Office is investigating a motor vehicle accident with serious physical injury, involving a pedestrian in the area of 5186 Clinton Street Road, in the Town of Batavia. The Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center received the 9-1-1 call reporting the accident at 1:26 AM.

Upon arrival, patrols and members of the Town of Batavia Fire Department located an unresponsive juvenile male laying in the westbound lane. The juvenile male appeared to have been struck by a grey 2008 Toyota RAV 4, operated by a Garrett R. Mercurio, age 18, of Batavia, NY. The juvenile male was identified as an Ethan R. Walker, age 17, of Aberdeen, Scotland.

Walker appeared to have gotten out of a Maroon 2007 Chevy Suburban that he was a passenger in, which was traveling eastbound on Clinton Street Road. Walker appeared to have crossed the roadway on foot and entered the westbound lane. Mercurio was traveling westbound on Clinton Street Road. Mercurio struck Walker with his Toyota RAV 4 while Walker was walking in the westbound lane, causing Walker to sustain serious injuries. Mercurio and witnesses on scene began to call 911 for assistance. Members of the Town of Batavia Fire Department and Mercy EMS on scene provided Walker medical care. Walker was transported by Mercy Ambulance from the scene, and was later transported by Mercy Flight to the Erie County Medical Center.

At this time, members of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Genesee County Sheriffs Office Crash Management Team are conducting a full investigation into the matter. Assisting at scene were members of the Town of Batavia Fire Department, and Mercy EMS.

 

CITY POLICE BLOTTER:

On 9/2/2023, Danvor E Hodgson-Aguilar (age 34) of Silver Springs, Maryland was arrested for Petit Larceny. Hodgson-Aguilar was arrested after an investigation into a larceny at Tops. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on 9/12/2023.  ALSO:  On 8/28/2023, Toni M Drake (age 42) of Batavia, was arrested for Harassment 2nd. It’s alleged that Drake struck another person in the face, during an argument in the parking lot of the Mobil gas station, on East Main St. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on 9/12/2023. ALSO:  On 9/2/2023, Rodrigo G Vasquez (age 26) of Batavia, was arrested for DWI. Vasquez was arrested during a traffic stop following several citizen complaints, of an erratic driver. After an investigation, it was determined that Vasquez was allegedly driving while intoxicated. He was issued several traffic tickets and released. He is due in court on 9/20/2023. ALSO:  On 8/31/2023, Robbie C Scheib (age 21) of Rochester, was arrested on an arrest warrant, for Harassment 2nd. A warrant was issued for Scheib on 8/30/2022, after an investigation into a disturbance, where he allegedly subjected another person to unwanted physical contact. Scheib was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on his own recognizance. He is due back in court on 10/3/2023.  ALSO: On 9/1/2023, Jon H Bush Jr (age 40) of Batavia, was arrested on two arrest warrants. The first warrant is the result of a traffic stop on Washington Ave on 6/5/2023, where Bush was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 2nd. The warrant was issued after he allegedly failed to appear in court. The second warrant stems from an incident on 8/3/2023, where police attempted to stop Bush for a traffic violation, while he was riding a bicycle. Bush allegedly refused to stop and fled on the bike. Bush was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released. He is due back in court on 9/12/2023.

 

The first legal claims have been filed following a deadly boat capsizing in Lockport a few months ago. According to The Buffalo News, over a dozen people are taking action against Lockport Cave and Underground Boat Ride due to the injuries they suffered in June. One passenger onboard, 65-year-old Harshad Shah, ended up drowning after he couldn’t be pulled from the water in time. The boat tour hasn’t operated since the day of the tragedy.

 

 

Buffalo Public Schools officials have made a policy change for students who want to attend football games in the future. The superintendent said yesterday that each player and cheerleader will be able to invite three student spectators to each home contest. Adults can attend so long as they show proper ID and minors must be accompanied by an adult. On Friday a brawl broke out during a game at All-High Stadium which resulted in several arrests.

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: The New York State Education Department is looking to expand English as a Second Language Services to meet the needs of migrant children. The Education Department is proposing to amend requirements for educators to create flexibility so they can more easily obtain supplementary certificates and supplementary bilingual extensions. Those extensions would enable more teachers to become available to support students who speak English as a Second Language. The amendment would give candidates the option to either complete the examination requirement for a certificate or the enrollment and educational requirements rather than needing both sets of requirements. The proposed rule would take effect tomorrow through august of next year, but it is expected to be presented to the board of regents for adoption as a permanent rule at its January meeting.

 

Drivers across New York are being urged to do their part to help keep kids safe during this school year. Safety officials are reminding people it’s illegal to pass a school bus when its flashing lights are displayed. People should also keep an eye out for children who are walking to or from their bus stops, and never use electronic devices while behind the wheel. Anyone caught breaking the rules faces the possibility of points on their license and a significant fine.

 

 

The Buffalo Bills are off to a tough start to their 2023 season after falling to a division rival on the road. Bills quarterback Josh Allen threw for 236 yards and a touchdown but also had three interceptions as his team lost to the New York Jets 22-to-16 in overtime last night at MetLife Stadium. New York played a majority of the game without QB Aaron Rodgers who left the contest due to an apparent Achilles injury. Buffalo’s next game is this Sunday at home against the Las Vegas Raiders.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

Following months of hard work and preparation, the Rochester Fringe Festival is officially going to get underway today. The event will feature acts that incorporate things such a music, magic, and even audience participation before it wraps up September 23rd. Over 100 of the more than 500 performances scheduled, will be free to attend. For a complete list of shows and venues, go to https://www.rochesterfringe.com/.

 

Jelly maker J.M. Smucker is buying snack brand Hostess in a multi-billion dollar deal. The maker of the popular Smucker’s jelly announced Monday it will buy the Twinkies-maker for $5.6 billion. Smucker said the deal is a compelling expansion of its family of brands. Included in the purchase are popular Hostess brands like CupCakes, DingDongs, Zingers and HoHos. The purchase is the latest in a series of deals the packaged food industry has seen recently, including Campbell Soup buying the maker of Rao’s sauces.

 

Drew Barrymore is facing backlash for resuming the taping of her talk show as the writers’ strike continues. Several Hollywood actors have criticized Barrymore, questioning who would be writing for her show during the strike. On Sunday, Barrymore responded by saying the show is “in compliance.” WGA organizers have said they’ll be picketing outside the New York City studio all week.

 

The FDA is approving updated COVID-19 boosters from Pfizer and Moderna. The updated shots target Omicron sub-variants circulating throughout the U.S. A CDC advisory committee will meet this week to review the safety and efficacy of the jabs and vote on recommendations for who should get the booster. This comes, as there’s been a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases.

 

The Biden administration is taking steps to carry out a prisoner exchange with Iran to free five Americans being held there. It has issued a waiver for foreign banks to transfer $6 billion in Iranian oil funds that have been held up by U.S sanctions. All five Americans were transferred from prison to house arrest in Tehran while the agreement between the U.S and Iran was finalized.

 

Today is Tuesday, September 12th, the 255th day of the year.

September 12 in history…

 

…In 1910, 37-year-old Los Angeles social worker Alice Stebbins Wells was appointed as the first woman police officer with arrest powers in the U.S. She was given a telephone call box key, a rule book, a first aid book, and a “policeman’s badge.”

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1919, Adolf Hitler attended a meeting for the German Worker’s Party, and would be accepted into the organization a few days later. This party is the precursor to the Nazi political Party.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1928, actress Katherine Hepburn made her New York stage debut in “Night Hostess.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1953, John F Kennedy and Jacqueline Lee Bouvier married in St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Newport, Rhode Island.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1954, “Lassie” debuted on CBS. The show stayed on the air for 17 years.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1959, the television western drama “Bonanza” debuted on NBC and stayed on-air for 14 seasons. It was the first western to be broadcast in color.

 

 

 

 

…In 1966, “The Monkees” debuted on NBC. The show went on to win an Emmy Award for Outstanding Comedy Series of 1967.

 

 

 

 

…In 1992, actor Anthony Perkins died at the age of 60. He is best remembered for his role as Norman Bates in the classic Alfred Hitchcock film, “Psycho.”

 

Three suspects were detained after a lengthy police chase that started in the city and leaked into Henrietta Monday evening.  Rochester police officers responded to Flint Street before 6 p.m. for the report of an armed robbery. Through investigation, a suspect vehicle was identified, and was seen in the area of Mount Hope Avenue not long after.  Officers started to pursue this vehicle, which led them into the Henrietta area. The pursuit was then stopped due to safety factors, but a short time later, the vehicle was found with nobody inside in the Corn Hill area, police said.  Three suspects were taken into custody, according to officers. No injuries were reported, and the investigation is ongoing.

Deputies are investigating charges against a sergeant assigned to the Monroe County Jail Bureau.  The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence on Burritt Road in the town of Parma Saturday night for the report of a disturbance.  Deputies ended up arresting 37 year old Evonne Kushner of Hilton, and charged her with third-degree assault and endangering the welfare of a child.  Kushner has been assigned to administrative duties outside of the jail as the investigation continues, deputies said.

The New York State Education Department is looking to expand English as a Second Language Services to meet the needs of migrant children.  The Education Department is proposing to amend requirements for educators to create flexibility so they can more easily obtain supplementary certificates and supplementary bilingual extensions.  Those extensions would enable more teachers to become available to support students who speak English as a Second Language.  The amendment would give candidates the option to either complete the examination requirement for a certificate or the enrollment and educational requirements rather than needing both sets of requirements.  The proposed rule would take effect tomorrow through august of next year, but it is expected to be presented to the board of regents for adoption as a permanent rule at its January meeting.

The Water Meters in the City of Batavia are going to be replaced starting next week.  This project will replace older water meters with new advanced metering infrastructure technology water meters which will increase water-use efficiency, reduce operational costs, and promote sustainable green infrastructure practices.  The city was awarded 730,000 dollars in a Green Innovation Grant from the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation to do the replacement.  Residents and businesses with water meters that are required to be replaced will receive letters in the mail detailing what to expect and how to schedule your water meter replacement appointment.

The Labor Day weekend has passed and gas prices have remained more or less the same as they were prior to the heavy travel holiday. According to Triple A today, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.83. The state average – always just a little bit higher – is at $3.89. In Batavia, we’re paying the same as the national average, $3.83; that’s down a penny from a month ago and 23 cents less than what we were paying a year ago today.

The Buffalo Bills are off to a tough start to their 2023 season after falling to a division rival on the road. Bills quarterback Josh Allen threw for 236 yards and a touchdown but also had three interceptions as his team lost to the New York Jets 22-to-16 in overtime last night at MetLife Stadium. New York played a majority of the game without QB Aaron Rodgers who left the contest due to an apparent Achilles injury. Buffalo’s next game is this Sunday at home against the Las Vegas Raiders.

30-year-old Bradley Jordan of Bethany has been arrested. He’s charged with petit larceny following investigation into an incident on Lewiston Road. Jordan was issued an appearance ticket for a later date at Batavia Town Court.

 

 

Governor Hochul has ordered flags at government buildings across the Empire State to be lowered to half-staff today in observance of the 22nd anniversary of the September 11th terror attacks. Thousands of people were killed when planes crashed into the World Trade Center, Pentagon and s field in Pennsylvania. Landmarks including Niagara Falls will also be lit in blue tonight. The governor says New Yorkers will never forget those who died.

 

The Labor Day weekend has passed and gas prices have remained more or less the same as they were prior to the heavy travel holiday. According to Triple A today, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.83. The state average – always just a little bit higher – is at $3.89. In Batavia, we’re paying the same as the national average, $3.83; that’s down a penny from a month ago and 23 cents less than what we were paying a year ago today.

 

Governor Hochul has signed a new law into effect designating Lunar New Year as a no-school holiday for New York public schools. The Lunar New Year, otherwise known as Chinese New Year, is on February 10th in 2024. Supporters of the bill said it was introduced so Asian students would not have to choose between gathering and celebrating with their families and pursuing their education.

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: Firefighters from across the greater Rochester area participated in the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s annual 9/11 memorial Stair Climb at Innovative Field. Yesterday they climbed the equivalent of 110 stories, which is the same number first responders climbed on September 11, 2001. This is the seventh year organizers have hosted the Stair Climb. The event raises money for the Foundation’s programs that support families. More than $22,000 has been raised so far as the organization continues to accept donations.

 

State Police have released the results of their Labor Day weekend crackdown on impaired drivers. There were over 8700 tickets issued statewide from September 1st through the 4th. In this region five people were arrested for DWI while other individuals were ticketed for violations such as speeding and distracted driving. Last year, over 9700 tickets were handed out.

 

The Buffalo Police Department is assessing its policies for football games after a brawl among spectators resulted in multiple arrests. The fight happened Friday night at All High Stadium during a contest between McKinley High School and Bennett High School. Officials made the decision to end the game at halftime. Four suspects have been charged and a fifth arrest is pending.

 

 

Governor Hochul is asking that customers of Charter Spectrum get refunds during the cable company’s dispute with Disney. She says New York consumers are missing some of the biggest sporting events of the year. More than 1.5 million cable viewers in New York State lost access to ESPN and other Disney-owned channels on August 31st, when Disney and Charter were unable to renew a distribution deal. Hochul has directed the Department of Public Service to ensure customers get the appropriate refunds.  A Press Release came into WBTA this afternoon around 12:30. The Governor reports: “Last week, I made it clear that if you pay for your cable bill, you deserve to get the services you pay for. Just in time for Monday night football and the Bills and Jets starting their seasons tonight, I’m pleased that Disney and Charter have resolved their corporate dispute and resumed service for more than 1.5 million New York customers that lost access to ESPN and Disney-owned channels. My Administration will ensure that New Yorkers receive a refund for the days they were without service, holding true to our commitment that we will always prioritize consumer protection.”

 

The Buffalo Bills will be in the Garden State tonight as they look to start their season with a win over a division rival. The Bills are visiting Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Buffalo is coming off a season where they once again made the playoffs but were eliminated in round two by the Cincinnati Bengals. Kickoff this evening is set for 8:15.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

A long-missing key piece of Star Wars history will hit the auction block next month. An original 20-inch X-wing star fighter model was recently found after missing for decades. The model was used for filming key scenes in the original 1977 Star Wars film, including the climatic battle at the Death Star. It will be part of a Heritage Auctions event featuring items from the collection of an Oscar nominated model maker that will take place October 14th through the 15th in Dallas. Bidding for the X-wing model will start at $400,000.

 

The Powerball jackpot continues to climb with no lucky winner in Saturday night’s big drawing. That means the top prize in the next drawing coming up tonight will be at least $522 million. The cash value on that works out to just over $252 million. Please play responsibly.

 

The man who spent nearly two decades as the nation’s top infectious disease expert says a repeat of 2020 is unlikely, despite a recent increase in COVID cases. Speaking on ABC’s This Week, former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Dr. Anthony Fauci also said he doesn’t expect a federal mandate to wear masks again. MEANWHILE, a new round of COVID-19 boosters could be available in the U.S this week. The CDC’s independent panel of advisors is set to meet on Tuesday to recommend who will be eligible for the shots. Meanwhile, the FDA is also likely to approve the shots, which aim to protect against severe disease and death from currently circulating variants. The expected rollout comes as the nation has seen a recent uptick in COVID infections.

 

Pennsylvania State Police believe an escaped criminal is still within the state and within the county. Officials say the search for Danelo Cavalcante has shifted to the northern part of Chester County after he managed to slip through a police perimeter. Cavalcante is a convicted murderer who escaped from Chester County Prison on August 31st.

 

 

Coming up in the business week ahead, Wednesday’s reports will bring the latest consumer price index. The CPI numbers will help guide whether the Federal Reserve moves to raise interest rates again in November. Weekly jobless claims are due on Thursday, with a slight uptick in the forecast. The producer price index and retail sales data will also be out the same day. Consumer sentiment caps the week on Friday.

 

Today is Monday, September 11th, the 254th day of the year.

September 11 in history…

 

…In 1789, President George Washington appointed Alexander Hamilton the first Secretary of the Treasury.

 

 

 

 

…In 1941, construction on the Pentagon began. It was completed and dedicated on January 15, 1943.

 

 

 

 

…In 1952, Dr. Charles Hufnagel became the first to replace a diseased aorta with an artificial one made of plastic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1955, 19-year-old Lee Ann Meriwether won the first televised Miss America pageant. The event was broadcast on ABC Television.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1967, “The Carol Burnett Show” aired for the first time on CBS Television. The popular program stayed on the air for eleven years.

 

 

 

…In 1987, actor Lorne Greene died at the age of 72. He is best known for his role as Ben Cartwright on the television show “Bonanza.”

 

 

 

…In 1988, actor John Sylvester White died at the age of 68. He is best remembered for playing Vice Principal Michael Woodman on TV’s “Welcome Back Kotter.”

 

 

 

 

 

…In 2001, nearly 3,000 people were killed in the worst terror attack on U.S. soil. Nineteen men hijacked four planes in a coordinated attack. Two planes were slammed into the World Trade Center, causing the massive Twin Towers to collapse and change the New York City skyline forever. Another plane crashed into the Pentagon, while the fourth went down in Pennsylvania after the passengers on board revolted against their hijackers. The attack was traced to the terrorist group al-Qaeda, which led to a war in Afghanistan and eventually the death of al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden in Pakistan in 2011.

 

 

…In 2003, Emmy winning sitcom star John Ritter died in Los Angeles after suffering an aortic aneurysm. Ritter was best known for his portrayal of the bumbling Jack Tripper in the 1970s sitcom “Three’s Company.” John Ritter was 54.

 

Kids in public schools across New York will have a new day off next year.  Governor Hochul signed a new law into effect on Saturday designating Lunar New Year as a no school holiday for New York public schools.  The Lunar New Year, otherwise known as Chinese New Year, will be on February 10th in 2024.  Governor Hochul says the new legislation “would ensure schools are not in session on Lunar New Year, underscoring the commitment to supporting and protecting New York’s AAPI community.”  Supporters of the bill said it was introduced so Asian students would not have to choose between gathering and celebrating with their families and pursuing their education.

Firefighters from across the greater Rochester area participated in the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation’s annual 9/11 memorial Stair Climb on Sunday at Innovative Field.  They climbed the equivalent of 110 stories, which is the same number first responders climbed on September 11, 2001.  This is the seventh year organizers have hosted the Stair Climb.  The event raises money for NFFF programs that support families of More than $22,000 has been raised so far as the organization continues to accept donations. Fallen firefighters and the FDNY Counseling Services Unit.  

Campers at Lei Ti Campground in Bethany held their annual auction fundraiser on Sept. 2 in support of One Soldier at a Time, and on Saturday, presented a check for $9,283 to Lauren Coe.  Coe said One Soldier at a time runs three primary programs.  One provides gifts for wives and mothers of military members deployed overseas for Christmas, Valentine’s and Mother’s Day.  Another provides care packages for soldiers on deployment.  The third, which this donation benefits, assists veterans who are homeless, impoverished, in PTSD housing or in similar hardships with care products to take care of them from head to toe, from hair-care products to socks and shirts and ties, and for veterans who have passed, suits “so they can be buried with dignity.”

The VA Hospital in Batavia is hosting a remembrance ceremony for the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the lawn in front of the Medical Center at 11am.  Remarks will be given by Associate Medical Center Director Royce Calhoun, Senator George Borello, and Councilman Bob Bialkowski.  The ceremony will include the placement of 3000 flags on the lawn to represent every life taken on that horrific day. Batavia VA Medical Center is the only VA hospital in the country to present a 911 flag memorial.  The public is invited to attend the ceremony and view the memorial throughout the day.

Governor Hochul is asking that customers of Charter Spectrum get refunds during the cable company’s dispute with Disney.  She says New York consumers are missing some of the biggest sporting events of the year.  More than one-point-five-million cable viewers in New York state lost access to ESPN and other Disney-owned channels on August 31st, when Disney and Charter were unable to renew a distribution deal.  Hochul has directed the Department of Public Service to ensure customers get the appropriate refunds.

The Buffalo Bills will be in the Garden State tonight as they look to start their season with a win over a division rival. The Bills are visiting Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Buffalo is coming off a season where they once again made the playoffs but were eliminated in round two by the Cincinnati Bengals. Kickoff this evening is set for eight-15 p-m.

A School Security Officer got a bit of a scare in Rochester at school 23 on Thursday when they tried to stop someone from driving around a stopped school bus.  The driver of the car reportedly flashed a gun at the guard and then drove off.  The Rochester City School District said the suspect never directed or pointed the supposed firearm at the security officer or anyone else, and no children were present at the time of the incident.  School officials say that, while these kinds of incidents are not common, they are not unusual. The union said security guards are trained in evacuation and active shooter drills for two weeks prior to the school year starting, and are equipped for situations like Thursday’s.  The vehicle’s plate and information were reportedly taken by witnesses.  Rochester police are looking for the vehicle and its driver and the case is still under investigation.

Labor negotiations will continue between two health care unions, the University of Rochester, and Strong Memorial Hospital.  The unions, which represent more than 1,800 workers, have agreed to a two-week contract extension that will push the deadline back to Sept. 23. Both unions are seeking a contract that includes higher wages and a quality comprehensive benefit package, to help retain and recruit more workers and alleviate staffing shortage issues.  The two sides have already completed six bargaining sessions. Negotiations are slated to resume Monday.

Emmanuel Baptist Church on Oak Street in Batavia will be hosting a Missionary from the Middle East on Monday.  Daniel Chetti, who works with migrant domestic workers in 7 countries including Syria, Iraq and Lebanon, will be presenting on the work they do starting with a free dinner at the church at 6pm.  All are invited to attend and find out more about the INSAAF Justice and Compassion mission.  A freewill offering will be taken up to support the ministry.

Not only can the state of NY not develop and distribute hand sanitizer well enough to use it all up, but they can’t get rid of it in the time frame they promised after it expired.  A year ago the 4 million dollars worth, or 706,000 gallons of the alcohol-laden liquid, all of which was expired and unusable, was baking away on pallets on a remote runway of an abandoned airport in Oriskany that the state now uses as a training center.  NY state officials said it would all be recycled by Kodak in 44 weeks, or by the beginning of the summer.  Less than half of the sanitizer has been taken away so far and officials are saying they didn’t mean 44 weeks in a row but 44 weeks over however many years it would take with gaps between the weeks.  $4.3 million to make the sanitizer, $2.32 million to get rid of the unwanted excess, bringing the total NYS Clean price tag for you, the taxpayer, to $6.62 million.

New York State Police have released the numbers for the latest Stop DWI program.  The State Police issued 8,762 tickets and arrested 154 people for DWI during this year’s Labor Day weekend.  The initiative, which targeted impaired and reckless drivers, began on Friday, September 1, 2023, and continued through the Labor Day holiday, Monday, September 4.  3400 people were ticketed for speeding, 203 for distracted driving, 383 for seatbelt violations, and 126 for failure to move over.

 

A Holley man has been indicted by a Monroe County grand jury for allegedly breaking into a Brockport childcare center and leaving notes expressing his desire to be a baby girl. Charges against 65-year-old Daniel Seeler include burglary in what was described as a sexually motivated felony. Seeler has been a real estate developer in the Holley area, including making major renovations to the former Tagg’s Tavern, converting that site into the Holley Falls Bar & Grill. He is no longer involved in managing that site. It’s alleged Seeler left money on January 30th and a note requesting adult-size diapers at the Inspire! Learning and Child Care Center in Clarkson. The Center’s director contacted police and security cameras were installed. A few days later, Seeler allegedly left a similar note during which time, a security camera alerted the director. A review of the video indicated Seeler was playing with diapers. Monroe County Sheriff’s Deputies charged him on February 18th.

 

An overturned truck made a big mess at the corner of Route 237 and Main. Stafford First Assistant Chief Mark Dougherty tell us it happened just before 2:00 yesterday afternoon when the driver attempted to navigate the intersection at too high a rate of speed. Officers from the Department of Environmental Conservation, the Fire Department and employees of Carolina Eastern helped on scene to clean up the fertilizer spill so it wouldn’t get washed into nearby Black Creek. Dougherty added there was a minor spill of Diesel fuel and Hydraulic fluid that was easily contained. The detailed story is available on the website of our news partner, The Batavian; here is a direct link to the story:  https://www.thebatavian.com/howard-owens/truck-spills-20k-pounds-of-potash-in-stafford/636387

 

Governor Kathy Hochul has signed two pieces of legislation to expand access to opportunities in civil service. This now means that The Department of Civil Service and municipal civil service commissions must provide examination announcements to the local Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES), school districts, public colleges, public universities, local social services districts, and, to the extent practicable, job training programs. It also allows for time an individual spent as a provisional employee to be counted towards their probationary term upon permanent appointment (in the same title position).

 

Monroe County has taken action to try and reduce the number of drug overdoses. Boxes with naloxone inside of them have been installed at all 22 county-owned parks. Naloxone is a medication that can help save a person’s life if they do end up overdosing. So far this year, over 2000 overdoses have been reported in the county and more than 180 of them resulted in an individual’s death.

 

Rochester police say one person is in custody after a woman was hit by a vehicle in the city. The 27-year-old woman was struck by a 29-year-old man in the area of Arborwood Crescent yesterday. She was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. There’s no word yet what charges the driver could be facing for his alleged role in this incident.

 

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: Assemblyman Steve Hawley, along with his Assembly Republican colleagues, is calling on Governor Hochul to convene a legislative session to address the migrant crisis across the state. Over 100,000 migrants have arrived in New York and communities and localities are struggling to keep up with this recent influx. Hawley believes a special session would help to implement necessary reforms such as instituting background checks for incoming immigrants and giving municipalities the ability to choose whether they want to take in migrants. New York City Mayor Eric Adams said yesterday that the immigration crisis would destroy his hometown if the White House doesn’t step in.

 

A drunk driver is going to be spending time in prison after pleading guilty for his role in a fatal-hit-and run crash. Prosecutors say 48-year-old Rinaldo Pearson admitted to being under the influence when he struck 31-year-old Amber Young on Broadway in Buffalo back in February. Young was brought to a nearby hospital but couldn’t be saved. Pearson is facing up to 15 years behind bars when he’s sentenced in January.

 

 

 

Brand-new information has been released about a deadly shooting in Niagara Falls last month. The officers involved in the incident have been identified as Kayla Richards and Ian Sitek. While investigating a shots fired call on Niagara Street, Richards and Sitek encountered 53-year-old Benjamin Rivers, who had a gun. He then opened fire towards the officers, which led to them shooting and killing him. Richards and Sitek weren’t hurt but they are on paid administrative leave.

 

 

People and their pets are being urged to stay away from the water at Ontario Beach Park in Rochester. That’s because harmful algal blooms have been spotted in parts of Canandaigua Lake. Exposure to these blooms can cause health problems for both humans and animals. Symptoms include rashes, nausea, vomiting, and even a fever. Anyone who sees a bloom is asked to report it to the state Department of Environmental Conservation.

 

Folks who have ever wondered what it would be like to step on the field at Highmark Stadium will get the opportunity to do so this weekend. A Fitness on the Field event is taking place tomorrow from 8:00am until 2:30pm at the facility in Orchard Park. The cost to attend is $10 and a variety of classes will be offered. To sign up, head to Ticketmaster.com. Spectators and kids 13 and under are free.

ELSEWHERE…

 

Wendy’s is getting into the pumpkin spice game this fall. The Dublin-based hamburger chain has announced that a new pumpkin spice Frosty flavor will be available beginning next Tuesday. The company says the frozen treat introduces hints of pumpkin flavor and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to the familiar and creamy Frosty texture. A pumpkin spice Frosty cold brew coffee drink will also be available starting next week.

 

The top prize up for grabs for Mega Millions tonight is at least $122 million. And whoever correctly chooses the winning numbers for Powerball tomorrow night will get $500 million. Both drawings will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

 

The new head of the CDC says COVID-19 is here to stay. Dr. Mandy Cohen spoke at a luncheon in Atlanta this week, saying folks are just going to have to “learn to live with it.” Cohen recommended masking, social distancing and other measures to keep the virus at bay. She also said a new booster for COVID will be available as soon as next week.

 

 

 

About two in three Democrat voters say they’d rather see a different nominee than President Biden. That’s according to a new CNN poll that says 67% of left-leaning voters would like the party to nominate someone other than Biden. That’s up from 54% who said the same in March.

 

 

Today is Friday, September 8th, the 251st day of the year.

September 8 in history…

…In 1504, Michelangelo’s marble statue of David was unveiled in Florence, Italy.

 

 

 

 

…In 1664, the Dutch surrendered New Amsterdam to the British who later renamed it New York.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1921, Miss Washington, D.C., 15-year-old Margaret Gorman, won the first-ever Miss America pageant. She received a gold statue of a mermaid and $100. Gorman was crowned the “Golden Mermaid.”

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1930, the “Blondie” comic strip appeared in the comic pages for the first time. Created by cartoonist Chic Young, the strip originally portrayed Blondie as a Jazz Age flapper, and Dagwood as a carefree playboy.

 

 

 

 

In 1935, Louisiana Senator Huey Long, likely to become a future candidate for president, was shot in the corridor of the state Capitol. He died two days later at the age of 42. Mr. Long, speaking on the floor of the U.S. Senate, March 5, 1935: “My voice will be the same as it has been. Patronage will not change it. Fear will not change it. Prosecution will not change it. It cannot be changed while people suffer. The only way it can be changed is to make the lives of these people decent and respectable. No one will ever hear political opposition out of me when that is done.”

 

 

…In 1966, the television show “Star Trek” debuted on NBC. The first season consisted of 29 episodes, and features William Shatner as Captain James T. Kirk, Leonard Nimoy as Spock, and DeForest Kelley as Leonard McCoy.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1969, actor and game show host Bud Collyer died at the age of 61. He was the voice of Superman on radio. He was one of the nation’s first major television game show stars. When game show producers Goodson and Todman called Garry Moore about the job, he immediately called Collyer, who told Moore that “I am just not up to it.” Collyer died soon after at the age of 61 from a circulatory ailment in Greenwich, Connecticut, on the same day the new To Tell The Truth premiered in daytime syndication.

 

 

 

…In 1974, President Gerald Ford pardoned former President Richard Nixon for any crimes he may have committed or participated in while in office. Ford explained his action as an attempt to end national divisions created by the Watergate break-in.

 

 

 

…In 2006, to mark the 40th anniversary of the premiere of the original “Star Trek” TV series, thousands of fans converged in Seattle to begin a three-day conference at the Science Fiction Museum and Hall of Fame. The Star Trek 40th Anniversary Gala Celebration and Conference included appearances from cast members from the original TV series.

A man has been arrested in connection to the murder of a 15-year-old boy earlier this year.  Rochester Police said Brandon Williams, 18, is now charged in the killing of Suade McKnight, who was shot to death inside a drug house on Alphonse Street back in February, after multiple suspects entered the building seemingly to rob the location.  Williams, who was 17 at the time of the incident, was found on Remington Street with a gunshot wound 15 minutes after the murder.  After new evidence was recently presented to a grand jury, Williams was identified as a suspect and was taken into custody this Wednesday.  Williams is charged with second-degree murder and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon, according to police.  He was arraigned and taken back into custody, and is set to appear in court Sept. 13 for a juvenile review.

An overturned truck spilled 10 tons of Potash onto the road in Stafford Tuesday afternoon.  Just before 2pm the truck tried to take the turn at Main Rd and Rt 237 too fast according to First Assistant Chief Mark Dougherty.  Officers from the DEC, the Fire Department and employees of Carolina Eastern helped on scene to clean up the fertilizer spill so it wouldn’t get washed into nearby Black Creek.  Dougherty also said there was a minor spill of Diesel fuel and Hydraulic fluid that was easily contained.  

Assemblyman Steve Hawley, along with his Assembly Republican colleagues, is calling on Gov. Hochul to convene an extraordinary legislative session to address the migrant crisis across the state. Over 100,000 migrants have arrived in New York and communities and localities are struggling to keep up with this recent influx. Hawley believes a special session would help to implement much-needed reforms such as instituting background checks for incoming immigrants and giving municipalities the ability to choose whether they want to take in migrants.  New York City Mayor Eric Adams said yesterday that the immigration crisis will destroy his home town if the White House doesn’t step in. 

Controversy over Buffalo’s school bus cameras.  The Mayor of Buffalo has proposed to mount cameras on their 634 School Buses to allow the cameras to catch people who pass the buses when their lights are on and stop sign is out and some people are protesting.  A couple years ago Buffalo had installed speed and red light cameras in school zones but had to remove them over race concerns.  People in buffalo complained that the majority of those who were getting tickets for speeding in school zones or running red lights were black and poor and then couldn’t pay for both their tickets and food or medicine.  The response to School Bus Cameras is the same with council persons complaining that black residents will once again be disproportionately affected by efforts to enforce the laws around school buses.  Niagara Falls has had cameras like these on their buses for 4 years and said that they worked to reduce the number of people engaging in risky behavior near buses and students.

Batavia Downs has given a check to Make A Wish Foundation of Western NY on Thursday for over 10 thousand dollars.  The money came from chair rentals for the Rockin The Downs Concert Series.  The money will go to granting wishes made by children with critical illnesses who contact the foundation.  Since 1992 Make A Wish Western NY has granted roughly 3700 wishes.  They hope to grant 150 this year according to regional director Benjamin Marchione.

The rollout of legal pot in New York hasn’t exactly been smooth or efficient with cannabis being legal for years before the first licenses were handed out, and New York State Senator Jeremy Cooney has announced the first ever public senate hearing on the state’s adult-use cannabis market.  The hearing is set for Oct. 30 at 11 a.m. in Albany and will be open to the public.  At a press conference Thursday morning, Cooney said New Yorkers are frustrated with the state’s challenges to launch a safe and legal market for cannabis, adding that they deserve clearer information for what will be happening next.  Recreational cannabis has been legal in New York since March 2021. The first retail licenses were approved back in June 2022, but it was another year before the Rochester-Finger Lakes region had its first retail cannabis licenses awarded.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is issuing a warning to regional residents about an ongoing scam. Authorities say scammers have been posing as members of law enforcement and trying to get people to pay for missing jury duty. In at least one instance, a person was told that they would be arrested for not following specific instructions. Officials say anyone who gets a call like this shouldn’t give out any personal information over the phone. They’re also asked to contact the sheriff’s department.

 

Starting next Wednesday, September 13, gun retailers will be required to submit background checks on ammunition sales to New York State Police instead of directly to the FBI. This is part of gun legislation Governor Hochul signed last year. State police will now contact the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, which is operated by the FBI, after a gun retailer reaches out to them for a background check. A sale can only be complete once a “proceed” response is received. Someone who fails an ammunition background check will have 30 days to appeal, according to state police. There will be a $9 fee for a firearm background check and a $2.50 payment for an ammunition check. Fees will fund the state’s background check system.

 

The number of asylum seekers who are staying in Rochester has risen once again. More than 70 migrants arrived from New York City and are being housed at the Holiday Inn on State Street. These individuals are from several countries including Peru, Venezuela, and Columbia and primarily speak Spanish. Since August, more than 230 asylum seekers have been sent to Rochester from the Big Apple.

 

An accident in Wyoming County led to over 9000 gallons of liquid manure spilling in Genesee Falls. A tractor-trailer owned by Edelweiss Farms rolled over late Tuesday afternoon. It ended up on its side with hydraulic fluid leaking and the entire contents of its liquid manure tank spilling out. According to the Wyoming County Office of Emergency Services, the Pike Fire Department was able to contain the spilled contents with the assistance of the Wyoming County Hazmat Team. The NYS DEC monitored the cleanup on Wiscoy and East Koy Road. No one was injured in the accident. The truck and trailer suffered extensive damage. The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

 

The search is still underway for the suspect who stole three very expensive vehicles from a dealership in Clarence. Authorities say the used vehicles have a value of over $500,000 and were taken from the Mercedes-Benz of Buffalo dealership on Main Street Sunday. The suspect was able to get access to the key boxes and take the vehicles during a period of several hours. They were later recovered, but this is the second time since July car thieves have targeted this dealership.

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: A man with a significant criminal history was sentenced after being convicted of robbing a delivery driver at knifepoint in Rochester last year. Prosecutors said 32-year-old Orlando Velazquez, a persistent violent felony offender, was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison for threatening a driver with a knife on Monroe Avenue before robbing them on the morning of September 5th of 2022. Police said Velazquez was taken into custody moments after the incident, and was found in possession of stolen property.

 

A man is now facing felony charges after leading police on a pursuit in Niagara County. A sheriff’s deputy tried to pull over 36-year-old Fabian Carter, III near Saunders Settlement Road and Garlo Road in Lewiston yesterday, but he refused to pull over. That started a chase that ended when a tire-deflation device was used, which caused the vehicle to stop near the border of Cambria and Lockport. Carter ran from the vehicle but was taken into custody. No one was hurt during the pursuit.

 

 

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is proposing some new regulations aimed at getting dangerous drivers off the roads. The agency is calling for the number of points associated with reckless driving activities to be increased. The DMV also wants to lower the threshold at which dangerous drivers are disqualified from the right to hold a license. Finally, the DMV wants to decrease the bar for permanent license forfeiture for people who keep being convicted of driving under the influence.

 

The American Red Cross has rolled out its latest incentives to boost the number of people who donate blood. Anyone who rolls up their sleeve to donate the rest of this month will get an email for a free haircut courtesy of Sport Clips. They’ll also be entered to win a trip for two to NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series races at Darlington Raceway in South Carolina next year. To find a donation location in your area, head to redcrossblood.org.

 

The results of a brand-new study show that fans of the Buffalo Bills are the booziest in all of the National Football League. According to British Gambler, Bills supporters consume an average of 3.3 alcoholic beverages per game. That puts them ahead of the fan bases of other teams such as the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys and Las Vegas Raiders. Fans of the Carolina Panthers finished in last place with 2.2 alcoholic beverages per game.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

A trove of items owned by the late Freddie Mercury is up for auction. They include handwritten lyrics to some of Queen’s biggest hits. The items were on display in a traveling exhibit over the summer. The legendary singer died in 1991. Proceeds will go to the Phoenix Mercury Trust and the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

 

 

A Tennessee woman is setting a new Guinness World Record with the help of a whole lot of hair. According to Guinness officials, Tami Manis has the longest competitive mullet of any woman on earth. Manis says she began growing her mullet out in 1990 and it now measures 68-inches in length, four inches taller than she is! She says most of the time her hair is braided and tucked away to prevent her from stepping on it.

 

New projections show Hurricane Lee could make it all the way to the East Coast. The hurricane formed over the Atlantic Ocean on Tuesday and is expected to strengthen into a Category 4 storm by Saturday, with wind speeds up to 150 miles per hour. Hurricane Lee could strengthen into a Category Five storm, as temperatures in the Atlantic are warmer than usual.

 

Using the Internet is linked to cognitive benefits to older people, according to new research. A study out last month in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that people between 50 and 65 who use the Internet regularly see their chances of developing dementia drop by nearly 9%.

 

 

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has no plans to retire amid concerns over his health. The Kentucky Republican told reporters today he plans to finish his term as leader and in the Senate. This comes after two recent medical incidents where McConnell froze up while taking questions from the press.

Today is Thursday, September 7th, the 250th day of the year.

September 7 in history…

 

…In 1915, former cartoonist John B. Gruelle was given a patent for his Raggedy Ann doll.

 

 

 

 

…In 1954, Hall-of-Fame football coach Glenn “Pop” Warner died at the age of 83. He is credited with discovering the man hailed by many as the greatest athlete of all time, Jim Thorpe.

 

 

 

…In 1978, Rock and Roll Hall-of-Famer Keith Moon died at the age of 32. He was the drummer for the rock group The Who.

 

 

 

…In 1998, the Japanese cartoon “Pokemon,” debuted in syndication in the United States, which helped launch Pokémon into a nationwide phenomenon.

A man with a significant criminal history was sentenced after being convicted of robbing a delivery driver at knifepoint in Rochester last year.  Prosecutors said 32 year old Orlando Velazquez, a persistent violent felony offender, was sentenced to 20 years to life in prison for threatening a driver with a knife on Monroe Avenue before robbing them on the morning of September 5th of 2022.  Police said Velazquez was taken into custody moments after the incident, and was found in possession of stolen property.

Gun retailers across New York state are preparing to change how they do background checks.  Starting Sept. 13, shops will be required to submit background checks on ammunition to New York State Police instead of directly to the FBI. This is part of gun legislation Gov. Kathy Hochul signed last year.  State police will now contact the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, which is operated by the FBI, after a gun retailer reaches out to them for a background check.  A sale can only be complete once a “proceed” response is received from the state’s NICS.  Someone who fails an ammunition background check will have 30 days to appeal, according to state police.  There will be a $9 fee for a firearm background check and a $2.50 payment for an ammunition check. NYSP said these fees will fund the state’s NICS unit and the background check system.

The Erie County Sheriff’s Office announced an arrest was made in connection to a burglary early Sunday morning.  The burglary occurred at the Mercedes-Benz of Buffalo dealership on Main Street in the Town of Clarence.  It is alleged that a man removed a key box from inside the dealership containing keys for used cars on the lot. Within several hours, the man left with a 2021 Bentley Continental, valued at $235,850.00, a 2022 Mercedes-Benz G Wagon, valued at $204,850.00, and a 2022 BMW M8, valued at $104,650.00.  Detectives were able to recover the three vehicle

Police have announced an arrest in the murder of a 25-year-old man in the city’s East End district earlier this year.  U.S. Marshals took 23 year old Gregory O’Neal into custody for allegedly shooting and killing Michael Mathis at the intersection of East Avenue and North Union Street in Rochester the night of January 21st.  Investigators believe there was an argument about Mathis’ previous acquittal of a fatal 2015 mass shooting outside the Boys & Girls Clubs of Rochester, which escalated into shots being fired.  O’Neal is charged with second-degree murder and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon.

An accident in Wyoming County led to over 9000 gallons of liquid manure spilled in Genesee Falls.  A tractor trailer owned by Edelweiss Farms rolled over late Tuesday afternoon.  It ended up on its side with hydraulic fluid leaking and the entire contents of it’s liquid manure tank spilling out.  According to the Wyoming County Office of Emergency Services, the Pike Fire Department was able to contain the spilled contents with the assistance of the Wyoming County Hazmat Team. The NYS DEC monitored the cleanup on Wiscoy and East Koy Road.  No one was injured in the accident. The truck and trailer suffered extensive damage.  The cause of the accident is under investigation.

Saturday Morning the residents of Country Meadows, a trailer community off Clinton Street in Batavia, gathered to discuss concerns and issues they have experienced over the last 2 years.  They say that their rents and utilities have been increasing, maintenance has not been done on their properties, and they are worried about being priced out of their homes.  Residents say they are concerned about the 6% raised lot rents that took effect this past spring, that could increase each year. They are also concerned with high water rates. One resident, who says she lives alone, went from paying $30 per month to over $120 per month to Cook Properties for water service. Residents also say that maintenance throughout the park is not being done, especially tree trimming.  Currently, Cook Properties owns 100 Manufactured Home Parks across NYS. They are currently looking to expand Country Meadows and add 76 more mobile home lots on a portion in the northwest corner of the park. Asking price is $80-$100,000. 

The police are actively looking for a man who skipped out on his parole and there is a reward being offered. Crime stoppers have a reward of $2,500 for anyone who gives them information that leads to the arrest of Nathan Royse. Royse was convicted of burglary in the second degree and is on parole. Batavia Police put out a warrant for his arrest for absconding from parole as well as for criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree. He should be considered armed and dangerous. If you have information, please contact: Crime Stoppers WNY. Call: 716-867-6161 or submit an anonymous tip online.

 

 

The sweltering weather continues with another day of Heat Advisory for Genesee, Livingston and Orleans Counties, and points east. Heat index values in the 90s are predicted through 7:00 this evening. The elderly and small children will be most at risk of heat related illnesses. The National Weather service reminds residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay in the shade or air conditioning if possible, and never leave pets or children unattended in a vehicle, even for just a short time.

 

 

School districts across the state are being offered tools to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 among students and staff. That’s because New York State is making both masks and rapid COVID-19 tests available to them upon request. There has been a rise in coronavirus cases over the past few weeks and there is also concern over a new variant of the illness. Districts are also urged to follow CDC guidelines to keep everyone safe.

 

The elderly man suspected of killing his wife at their home in Penn Yan has passed away. Authorities believe 89-year-old Ronald Saylor strangled 89-year-old Jane Saylor with a bath towel. A home health aide found the couple at the residence. Ronald Saylor had dementia and was never charged in connection with the death of his spouse.

 

 

 

Beginning next week, a brand-new area code will be launching in the Western New York region. As of September 11th, folks who currently live in the 716 area code and request new mobile or landline service may be assigned a number in the 624 area code. The State Department of Public Service says this area code will provide more phone numbers to residents and serve the region for years to come. It’s important to note that current phone numbers will not change

 

Cheektowaga police have identified the Buffalo man who was found dead in the Scajaquada Creek recently. They say the body of 62-year-old Gregory Smith was discovered last week in the area of Markus Drive. Just what caused Smith to pass away remains unknown, however, his death is being treated as suspicious.

 

Two people are in custody after a stolen vehicle was recovered in downtown Buffalo on Monday afternoon, according to Buffalo Police. Police said the vehicle was recovered around 4:00pm on Monday on the 190 Church Street exit off-ramp. Police and Erie County’s Air One helicopter tracked the vehicle, which was stolen from Amherst, until the people inside jumped out. Police said they tried to flee on foot, but officers on the ground apprehended them a “short time later.” Police SUVs were seen just below the 190.

 

Fans of the Buffalo Bills will soon have another food item they can add to their tailgate parties this season. Tops Friendly Markets is going to offer Dills Mafia Pickles at its stores later this month. The product is described as being gluten-free, all-natural, and vegan. Folks who are interested in purchasing the pickles can find them on store shelves September 15th.

 

 

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

The manhunt for an “extremely dangerous” killer is ramping up. Escaped Pennsylvania murderer Danelo Cavalcante has been on the run for days after he broke out of the Chester County Jail Thursday. The escape took place shortly after he’d been sentenced to life for murdering his ex-girlfriend in front of her children.

 

The top prize in Powerball that’s up for grabs tonight is $461 million after no one correctly matched all six numbers Monday night. There has not been a Powerball jackpot won in the last several weeks. This evening’s drawing will be streamed live at powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

 

 

COVID-19 infections are on the rise as the country heads into fall. Hospitalizations and deaths have been increasing and the virus is being detected more frequently in wastewater samples. It’s hard to track exact numbers, as states are no longer required to report numbers to the CDC. The numbers we do have, however, show a 16% increase in infections in the week ending August 26th. MEANWHILE… You may not want to throw away your expired at-home COVID tests. The FDA is extending the expiration dates of many at-home COVID test products, just as the U.S. sees a new surge in cases. You can check the FDA website to see if the brand has an extended date. Public health officials say all viable at-home tests can recognize new strains of COVID. AND… A study by researchers at the Mayo Clinic suggests that COVID-19 vaccinations are beneficial to those who later suffer from long-term COVID symptoms. The study published earlier this summer in the Journal of Investigative Medicine followed nearly 500 patients seeking treatment for long COVID. About half of those patients were vaccinated before suffering from long COVID, and researchers found they were less likely to suffer from symptoms like weakness, dizziness and loss of taste or smell. Drug companies that make COVID-19 vaccines are expected to roll out new booster shots later this month.

 

Narcan will be available over the counter starting this week at major retailers like Walmart, CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid. The nasal spray can be used to help people suffering from an opioid overdose and requires no training to use. A box contains two doses and sells for $45.

 

Researchers have found a new cause of Alzheimer’s Disease and vascular dementia. A new study led by scientists at Oregon Health and Science University found that iron rich cells in the brain destroy cells that are supposed to help clean connections between nerves. Researchers say it’s surprising this wasn’t found during previous research. They found it using a new technique to isolate the cells.

 

Team USA is advancing to the FIBA World Cup semifinals. The U.S. trounced Italy 100-63 in the quarterfinals in Manila on Tuesday. Mikal Bridges paced the Americans with 24 points while knocking down 8-of-11 shots from the field. Tyrese Haliburton came off the bench to contribute 18 points and five assists in the win.

 

Now that the New York State Fair has come to an end, one of the centerpiece attractions of the 13-day event is no more. The butter sculpture that was in the dairy building was removed yesterday. The 800 pounds of butter that were used will be recycled and turned into renewable energy to help power a creamery at a farm located in Livingston County. Meanwhile, the dates for next year’s fair have been announced — it’ll run August 21st through September 2nd.

 

Today is Wednesday, September 6th, the 249th day of the year.

September 6 in history…

 

…In 1522, one of Ferdinand Magellan’s five ships returned to Spain, completing the first successful circumnavigation of the world. Only 15 of the original 265 sailors survived the journey.

 

 

 

 

…In 1901, President William McKinley was shot while attending the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. He died eight days later, and Vice President Theodore Roosevelt took over the presidency. Leon Czolgosz was found guilty and executed that same year.

 

…In 1959, actor Edmund Gwenn died at the age of 83. He is best remembered for his role as Kris Kringle in the film “Miracle on 34th Street,” for which he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and the corresponding Golden Globe Award.

 

 

…In 1997, Princess Diana’s funeral took place in London, England. The funeral was broadcast live around the world. Elton John performed a reworked version of his song “Candle in the Wind,” which was originally released as a tribute to Marilyn Monroe. “Goodbye England’s Rose” was used as a tribute to Princess Diana.

 

 

…In 2006, Bob Dylan’s album “Modern Times” debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 Album chart, marking Dylan’s first number one album in 30 years.

 

 

The sweltering weather continues with another day of Heat Advisory for Genesee, Livingston and Orleans Counties.  Starting at noon and running till 7pm today heat index values in the 90s are expected.  The elderly and small children will be most at risk of heat related illnesses.  The National Weather service reminds residents to drink plenty of fluids, stay in the shade or air conditioning if possible, and never leave pets or children unattended in a vehicle.  

The police are actively looking for a man who skipped out on his parole and are offering a reward.  Crime stoppers have a reward of 2500 dollars for anyone who gives them information that leads to the arrest of Nathan Royse.  Royse was convicted of burglary in the second degree and is on parole.  Batavia Police put out a warrant for his arrest for absconding from parole as well as for criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree.  He should be considered armed and dangerous.  If you have information, please contact: Crime Stoppers WNY. Call: 716-867-6161 or submit an anonymous tip online.

Two people are in custody after a stolen vehicle was recovered in downtown Buffalo on Monday afternoon, according to Buffalo Police.  Police said the vehicle was recovered around 4 p.m. on Monday on the 190 Church Street exit off-ramp.  Police and Erie County’s Air One helicopter tracked the vehicle, which was stolen from Amherst, until the people inside jumped out. Police said they tried to flee on foot, but officers on the ground apprehended them a “short time later.” Police SUVs were seen just below the 190.

GCASA is building a new place for women and children battling substance abuse in Albion.  Part of the wooded nine-acre lot just outside of the Albion village limits is being cleared to make way for the construction of the building frame and roof this fall.  the Albion location will provide services to women 18 and older during their recovery, with five of the 25 units set up to accommodate women with children younger than kindergarten age. Up to two children can live in those units.  GCASA will operate the facility, with staffing at all hours, seven days a week. A grant from the New York State Department of Health has covered $4.6 million of the $5.2-million cost of construction.

Fans of the Buffalo Bills will soon have another food item they can add to their tailgate parties this season. Tops Friendly Markets is going to offer Dills Mafia Pickles at its stores later this month. The product is described as being gluten-free, all-natural, and vegan. Folks who are interested in purchasing the pickles can find them on store shelves September 15th.

Now that the New York State Fair has come to an end, one of the centerpiece attractions of the 13-day event is no more. The butter sculpture that was in the dairy building was removed yesterday. The 800 pounds of butter that were used will be recycled and turned into renewable energy to help power a creamery at a farm located in Livingston County. Meanwhile, the dates for next year’s fair have been announced — it’ll run August 21st through September 2nd.

31-year-old Nicholas Breau of Batavia has been arrested and is charged with harassment. This followed a domestic incident during which he allegedly threw property at the victim. Breau was arraigned in CAP Court. ALSO: 32-year-old Amy Gambino of Cheektowaga was arrested in Darien. She’s charged with criminal contempt, harassment and endangering the welfare of a child. It’s alleged Gambino struck two kids under the age of 17 and struck another individual, causing him alarm. Gambino was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held pending a CAP Court arraignment.

 

There is a heat advisory until 7:00pm in Genesee and Orleans Counties. The national weather service predicts that the heat index will be in the mid 90s with high humidity. They are advising that heat related illness might occur especially in children and the elderly. Make sure to drink plenty of water, stay in the shade or indoors in air conditioning if possible. Limit any time in the sun. Also don’t leave any children or pets unattended in a vehicle as temperatures rise inside a closed car very fast.

 

CITY of BATAVIA POLICE BLOTTER:

 

On 8/24/2023, Danny D Williams, Sr. (age 34) of Batavia, was arrested for Criminal Contempt 1st. Williams was arrested after an investigation into a disturbance on Harvester Ave, on 8/21, where he allegedly violated an order of protection. Williams was arraigned in Batavia City Court and held without bail.

 

 

 

 

On 8/28/2023, Bradley R Jordan (age 30) of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant, from Batavia City Court. Jordan was initially arrested on 1/20/2023, after a disturbance. He was charged with Aggravated Family Offense, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, and Criminal Mischief 4th. A warrant was issued on 2/4/2023, after he allegedly failed to appear in court. He was additionally charged with Bail Jumping 2nd. Jordan was arraigned and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. He is due back in Batavia City Court on 9/27/2023.

 

 

 

On 8/25/2023, Bleyke Z Culver (age 27) of Batavia, was arrested for Aggravated Family Offense and Criminal Contempt 2nd. The arrest is the result of an investigation into an incident where Culver was found inside a residence on Walnut St, in violation of an order of protection. Culver was arraigned in CAP Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $200 cash bail, $1,500 bond, and $1,500 partially secured bond. He is due back in court on 9/5/2023.

 

 

ALSO on the City Police blotter: On 8/27/2023, Victoria L Jacques (age 53) of Batavia, was arrested for Criminal Obstruction of Breathing and Harassment 2nd. Jacques was arrested following an investigation into a disturbance where Jacques allegedly struck another person and grabbed them by the neck. She was arraigned in CAP Court and released under the supervision of Genesee Justice. On 8/27/2023, Justin M Witherspoon (age 37) of Batavia, was arrested for Criminal Mischief 4th. It’s alleged that Witherspoon damaged property, during a dispute with a neighbor. Witherspoon was issued an appearance ticket and is due in court on 9/12/2023. On 8/29/2023, Hailee N Callicutt (age 22) of Albion, was arrested on a Bench Warrant. Callicutt was initially arrested on 1/1/2022, for Obstructing Governmental Administration and Resisting Arrest, as well as numerous traffic violations. The warrant was issued on 9/20/2022, after Callicutt allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arraigned in CAP Court and is due back in Batavia City Court, at a later date.

 

Rochester Police are looking for a missing 16-year-old girl they believe may be in danger. Jakarah Lopez-Moore was last seen leaving her house on Weld Street Friday, Aug. 25. She is 5’2″. roughly 120 pounds and was last seen wearing a blue jean jacket with writing on the back. Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to call 911 or email RPDTipline@CityofRochester.gov.

 

 

 

Police in Buffalo are investigating the deaths of two people at a home in the Schiller Park neighborhood as a possible domestic-related killing. Police answered a call about a shooting involving two people on Zelmer Street yesterday morning. Police have not released any additional information on the deaths.

 

 

Police in Buffalo say two people are under arrest following a chase on I-190 that involved a stolen vehicle. Buffalo Police and an Erie County Air One helicopter tracked down a car stolen out of Amherst. After a chase on I-190, the two suspects inside the vehicle fled the car and were taken into custody.

 

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

Taylor Swift fans will be able to see her new movie in Lockport this fall. The Lockport Transit Drive-in will be showing the Eras Tour movie on October 13th. The film is an opportunity for fans that were unable to get tickets to the stadium tour to still be able to see it. The drive-in theater will release more information on how to get tickets to see the movie as the event approaches.

 

Delta Air Lines tops a new list of best domestic carriers. The Atlanta-based airline ranked number one for on-time arrivals, service and comfort according to Bounce’s 2023 Airline Index. Southwest Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines placed second and third, with Alaska Airlines and United rounding out the top five. Other factors used in the annual airline comparison included in-flight entertainment, meals and seat comfort. American Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines and Allegiant Air also made Bounce’s top ten list of domestic airlines for 2023.

 

First Lady Jill Biden has tested positive for COVID-19. Her office confirmed the news Monday, saying the 72-year-old is experiencing mild symptoms. She’s expected to remain at her home in Delaware. Meantime, the White House says President Biden tested negative for the virus Monday evening. He’ll test “at a regular cadence this week and monitor for symptoms.”

 

Musician Gary Wright is dead at the age of 80. He was known for the 1976 hit “Dream Weaver.” Gary’s son confirmed the news with TMZ, saying he passed away on Monday morning at his home in California. The singer-songwriter had been battling Parkinson’s disease for about six years and recently developed Lewy body dementia (Lewy body dementia is a disease associated with abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain. These deposits, called Lewy bodies, affect chemicals in the brain whose changes, in turn, can lead to problems with thinking, movement, behavior, and mood.)

 

The FDA will finalize a ban on menthol tobacco products in the next few months. The agency is still behind its initial schedule: it first announced it would ban the flavor in April 2022 with an August 2023 deadline. Now that August has come and gone, a spokesperson said the details would be hammered out and finalized “in the coming months.”

 

 

 

Today is Tuesday, September 5th, the 248th day of the year.

September 5 in history…

…In 1877, Oglala Lakota war leader Chief Crazy Horse was murdered by the U.S. military. He took up arms against the United States federal government to fight against encroachment by white American settlers on Native American territory, and to preserve the traditional way of life of the Lakota people.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1882, the first Labor Day holiday parade was held in New York City.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1914, Babe Ruth hit his first professional home run in Toronto.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1960, Cassius Clay, the future Muhammad Ali, won an Olympic gold medal in a light heavyweight boxing matchup in Rome, Italy.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1966, the first ever Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon was held. The Muscular Dystrophy Association raised over $1,000,000.

 

 

 

 

…In 1975, President Gerald Ford escaped an assassination attempt carried out by Charles Manson disciple Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 2006, former NBC “Today” show anchor Katie Couric anchored her first “CBS Evening News” broadcast, becoming the first female solo anchor of a major evening network television newscast.

There is a heat advisory till 7PM in Genesee and Orleans Counties.  The national weather service predicts that the heat index will be in the mid 90s starting around noon.  There will also be high humidity.  They are advising that heat related illness may occur especially in children and the elderly.  Make sure to drink plenty of water, stay in the shade or indoors in air conditioning if possible.  Limit any time in the sun.  Also don’t leave any children or pets unattended in a vehicle as temperatures rise inside a closed car very fast.

Rochester Police are looking for a missing 16-year-old girl they believe may be in danger.  Jakarah Lopez-Moore was last seen leaving her house on Weld Street Friday, Aug. 25.  She is 5’2″. roughly 120 pounds and was last seen wearing a blue jean jacket with writing on the back.  Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to call 911 or email RPDTipline@CityofRochester.gov.

Another shooting puts a man in the hospital.  Rochester Police responded to the 300 block of Magnolia Street around 5 p.m. for the report of a male shot.  When they arrived, police learned that a man in his 20s was transported via private vehicle to the Rochester Fire Department on Genesee Street. The victim was then transported to Strong Memorial Hospital.  Police said the man had at least one gunshot wound to his lower body and has life-threatening injuries.  During the investigation, police learned the shooting occurred on Schwartz Street.  The investigation is still active and no suspects are in custody.

The Wyoming County Office of Emergency Services says the cause of a fire that destroyed a barn containing woodworking equipment and other general equipment is under investigation.  Fire crews from Arcade, North Java, Yorkshire, and Chaffee -Sardina, responded to a fully involved barn fire at 1782 Reed Road in the Town of Arcade early Friday morning.  According to the Office of Emergency Services, the owner of the barn woke up and discovered the blaze about 5:13a.m. A nearby smaller barn also sustained some heat damage. No injuries were reported.  It is estimated the fire caused nearly 100,000 dollars in damage.

Iggy the Giraffe is pregnant again!  Iggy is a Masai giraffe at Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester and gave birth to Olmsted last year.  The new baby giraffe is expected next year.  The announcement came from Monroe County Executive Adam Bello.  The news comes after bad news about a possibly deadly tumor on the jaw of another female giraffe at the zoo.

A man is facing charges after allegedly stealing from a church in Cheektowaga.  Police say the 68-year-old man broke into Our Lady Help of Christians over the weekend and was caught stealing by a volunteer and a maintenance worker.  The altar of the church was reportedly damaged by spilled liquids and incense.  The suspect is in custody after being arraigned.

A man from Livingston County has been convicted for the murder of his infant son.  27 year old Zachary McCaa of Caledonia was found guilty of throwing his son and causing blunt force trauma injuries to the head which resulted in his death last June.  McCaa was found guilty after a 10 day trial.  

Someone in Rochester and Someone in Buffalo are both richer.  In Buffalo the second prize winning ticket for the Powerball lottery, with a million dollars, was sold on Delaware Ave at Obsido AAA inc.  In Rochester the number 1 take 5 ticket was sold at Henry’s Convenience Store on west Henrietta Rd.  The ticket is worth over 41 thousand dollars.

Area 51 has been shut down by order of the Chief of the East Pembroke Fire Department after multiple calls for injuries on Sunday.  There were multiple calls about injuries at the races and Mercy EMS was tied up, causing Alexander’s ambulance to need to be dispatched to the scene.  Darien had to cover for Alexander while they were away.  

Wings Over Batavia was a hit over the weekend drawing thousands to watch as military aircraft, stunt planes, and fireworks all danced in the sky.  Pilots looped and rolled through the sky.  Military jets blasted past and did neat turns and rolls and close flybys of the runway.  There were vendors, exhibits, skydivers, and explosions.  The first air show in Batavia in 25 years is being considered a stellar success.

Labor Daze in Oakfield will be wrapping up late this evening after running through the weekend.  The final act to take the stage will be The Floyd Concept playing from 7 to 10pm.  The box car derby was held on Saturday with nearly three hours of racing on Oak Street, Elias Pamer won the younger division and Cody Pangrazio won the older division.  

And Gas prices are staying pretty steady this week.  According to AAA the average price of a gallon of regular in Batavia is 3.85 which is up a penny from last week and up 3 cents from a month ago.  The New York State Average is 3.89 and the US average is 3.81.  Prices are expected to rise slightly after Labor Day before dropping off again.

Three people were arrested during a traffic stop on Clinton Street Road as well as a raid on a residence on East Avenue on Thursday night in connection with a narcotics investigation by the Local Drug Task Force.  Two people, 51 year old Alterique Day of Rochester and 30 year old Joanna Lardner of Batavia, are accused of selling narcotics.  The third person, 37 year old Patricia McDonald, is charged with possession of a controlled substance in the 7th degree.  The Emergency Response Team, led by Batavia PD, assisted in the raid of 15 East Ave.  According to residents, when the police ordered the people at 15 East Ave to come out with their hands up, other people in the neighborhood came out of their homes thinking they were being ordered by the police.  One resident told reporters from the Batavian that they believed the home to be a drug house for a while.  The District Attorney’s Office assisted in the investigation.

A motor vehicle collision in Orangeville sent 7 people to the hospital.  A man from Kazakhstan, 23 year old Kuanysh Baimurat, faces multiple charges after the crash on rt 20A.  Baimurat was the operator of a 2023 Chevrolet Traverse, which was traveling from Niagara Falls, NY to Philadelphia, PA. Based on investigation at the scene, and based on witness statements, Baimurat was traveling eastbound on State Route 20A, passing multiple vehicles at a time, and passing in a no passing zone, just prior to the collision. Baimurat was also reported to have been traveling at reckless, extreme speeds, and he was found to be driving with a NYS Permit Only without a licensed driver in the vehicle.  Baimarut struck a 2018 Ford explorer that was making a left turn.  Baimurat’s vehicle left the roadway and overturned multiple times.  The 6 other occupants of Baimurat’s vehicle were either ejected from the vehicle or injured from being thrown throughout the interior of the vehicle.  The driver of the explorer and the 6 others were taken to ECMC.

Rochester Police have arrested a suspect who they say is responsible for a deadly incident outside a mini-mart Thursday morning.  Investigators say 65 year old Angel Lopez, was attacked on the third-floor of an apartment building on Sawyer Street around 3 a.m.  They believe 38 year old Damien Young beat Lopez into a semi-unconscious state, and then threw him out of the third-floor window, where he landed on the second-floor fire escape. Lopez eventually fell off the fire escape and onto the pavement, where he was found dead.  Young, who is also a registered Level 2 sex offender, was taken into custody Thursday afternoon and taken to Rochester General Hospital under the Mental Hygiene Law.  He was discharged on Friday and is now charged with second-degree murder.

The Batavia Rotary Club is holding their largest fundraiser of the year where the winner could drive away in a brand new Corvette or walk away with 50,000 dollars.  The first winner will come as soon as this Tuesday since an early bird component has been added. Early bird prizes are $500 each and will be drawn the first Tuesday of the month now through January. Early bird winners’ tickets will be placed back into the drawing for the grand prize.  Rotary Club uses these fundraisers to give money such as 18000 dollars in college scholarships and 250 thousand to the Healthy Living Campus on Main Street.  Persons interested in purchasing tickets may go to www.bataviarotaryraffle.com or contact any Rotarian. Only 4,500 tickets are sold.

44-year-old Rashawn Gosier and 38-year-old Cynthia Gosier both of Buffalo have been arrested in Batavia. They’re charged with petit larceny and conspiracy. It’s alleged they stole merchandise from a store on Veterans Memorial Drive. Cynthia was released on appearance tickets; Rashawn was held at the Genesee County Jail pending arraignment on an active arrest warrant issued by New York State Parole. Rashawn Gosier has a criminal record, including an arrest in Batavia in 2018 following a stabbing. At that time, he was charged with assault and attempted murder. It was found during police investigation that both Gosier and the victim knew one another through a mutual third party.

 

 

Police have identified the woman who was found dead inside her home in Yates County earlier this week. Officials say the body of 89-year-old Jane Saylor was discovered at her Penn Yan home by a home health aide. It’s believed her husband, 89-year-old Ronald Saylor, killed her by strangling her with a bath towel. Ronald Saylor suffers from dementia and remains hospitalized. So far, no charges have been filed against him.

 

 

 

With a lot of people hitting the road for the holiday weekend, police across New York State are going to be keeping a close eye out for drunk drivers. It’s part of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee’s STOP-DWI campaign that runs through Monday. People who are planning to drink alcoholic beverages are being urged to ensure they have a safe ride home. Anyone who sees suspicious or dangerous activity on the roads should dial 911 immediately.

 

 

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz has found himself as the subject of new complaint. It’s alleged that a committee chaired by Poloncarz awarded a 60-thousand-dollar grant to the Italian Cultural Center located in North Buffalo. The Buffalo News reports the person who notified the county about this money believed it was not appropriate because Poloncarz was in a relationship with the center’s leader. Poloncarz’s office says all funding was approved by the appropriate parties.

 

No explosives have been discovered following a bomb threat made against the Amtrak station in Niagara Falls. Law enforcement rushed to the station yesterday after receiving a report of a bomb inside the building. The building was evacuated as a precaution while the property was searched. It appears train service was not impacted and anyone with information on the threat is asked to call police.

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: The sales tax on cigarettes in New York State will increase by $1 starting today. The state’s current sales tax on a pack of 20 cigarettes is $4.35, and will now jump to $5.35 statewide. The average smoking rate in New York State is 12%. Vendors will also be required to display health advisories in close proximity to the products and outside the stores, warning customers of the dangers of nicotine addiction and smoke inhalation. Those signs will be on display by September 30 and will be up until June 2025, according to the American Lung Association.

 

If you saw a smiley face and other messages in the sky yesterday, you weren’t imagining things. It was Nathan Hammond flying in his 1956 deHavilland Chipmunk to skywrite above Rochester, Batavia and Buffalo. It was meant to get your attention about the Batavia Airshow tomorrow and Sunday. Hammond started writing in the sky about 20 years ago using paraffin based smoking oil. He says there are only 4 skywriters in the US and about a dozen worldwide. His plane is going to be part of the finale for the show both days. The Airshow is from 5 to 9 pm both days and gates open at 2:00PM.

 

 

Food lovers will be making a trip to Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park this weekend for the National Buffalo Wing Festival. It is set to run from noon until 9:00pm tomorrow and from noon until 7 p.m. on Sunday. The event is going to feature the opportunity to taste a wide variety of wings and there is also going to be eating competitions and cook-offs. Tickets cost $20 each and there’s no cost to park. More information can be found at buffalowing.com.

 

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has announced the launch of a brand-new coffee blend that’s going to end up helping people in need. Allen’s 17 Blend was created in conjunction with PLB Sports and Entertainment. Proceeds from all sales will go to benefit kids being treated at Oishei Children’s Hospital. An exclusive dark roast single serve will be available at Wegmans stores as will a limited edition Josh Allen coffee cup.

 

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

More than 14 million people are expected to pass through the nation’s airports this Labor Day weekend. The TSA is bracing for a high-volume of travelers today through Wednesday, September 6th. Today is projected to be the busiest travel day with nearly 3 million people passing through security checkpoints.

 

 

Donald Trump’s election trial in Georgia will be broadcast live on YouTube. The judge presiding over the Georgia indictment of the former president ruled yesterday that all of the court proceedings will be live streamed on the court’s YouTube channel following requests from media outlets to allow cameras in the courtroom.

 

 

 

Republican Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene says Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell is not fit for office. McConnell, who is 81, appeared to freeze up while speaking to reporters on Wednesday, raising concerns over his health. McConnell had a similar freeze moment during a news conference in July.

 

 

The top Powerball prize tomorrow night will be at least $420 million after no one chose the winning numbers for Wednesday’s drawing. The next drawing will be streamed live at powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

 

 

Today is Friday, September 1st, the 244th day of the year.

September 1 in history…

 

…In 1752, just ten months after Pennsylvania sent its request, the Liberty Bell arrived in Philadelphia. Weighing about a ton, the Bell measured roughly 12 feet around the bottom lip and 7-1/2 feet around its crown.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1890, the first triple-header in baseball was played thanks to Tom Oyster Burns. The Brooklyn Bridegrooms swept the Pittsburgh Alleghenys.

 

 

 

 

…In 1939, Hitler invaded Poland from the west. Two days later, France and Britain declared war on Germany, beginning World War II.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1985, French and American scientists discovered the wreckage of the Titanic. The ship sank in 1912.

 

 

 

 

…In 1997, the minimum wage in the United States increased to $5.15 an hour. In August 1996, Congress passed and President Clinton signed into law a two-step increase, lifting the minimum wage from $4.25 to $5.15. The first step of that increase went into effect October 1, 1996 and the second step on September 1, 1997.

 

 

 

 

…In 2005, legendary blues singer Fats Domino resurfaced after he was reported missing in the devastation left by Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. The singer and his family members were taken to a medical center in Baton Rouge and then taken in by JaMarcus Russell, the starting quarterback at Louisiana State University who helped Domino and his clan by running multiple errands for groceries and prescriptions.

 

 

A trio of suspected thieves were arrested for a string of larcenies across New York State, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.  They said that the three Rochester women, accused of running an organized theft ring, were caught driving a stolen Hyundai rental car in Gates after allegedly stealing merchandise from a store in Amherst.  Deputies said the suspects, 24 year old Kashmonay Holley, 30 year old Shekeyla Callahan, and 23 year old Nahzaire Murray, have multiple outstanding arrest warrants from several law enforcement agencies across the state.  Murray is a suspect in 42 larcenies with a total estimated loss of $198,000.  Holley is suspected of carrying out 14 reported larcenies with losses totaling $98,000, and Callahan is suspected in three larcenies.  Deputies turned the women over to New York State Police to answer for their warrants.

A man is found dead on Genesee Street in Rochester.  Police are investigating after a man was found dead with “traumatic injuries” outside a minimart Thursday morning.  Officers responded to the area of Genesee and Sawyer streets just after 6 a.m. for a report of a male down.  First responders found a man dead, apparently after taking some sort of fall.  Police continue to investigate what led to his death. His identity hasn’t been released.

HP Hood announced that it is going to be growing its operations in Batavia at the Genesee County Agri Park.  The project will include the addition of new processing systems, along with other upgrades which will allow the company to increase capacity for the production of additional extended-shelf-life beverages at the Batavia facility. As a result, the company has committed to creating up to 48 new jobs at the manufacturing facility.  The total project cost has been placed at $120 million. Genesee County is also considering providing incentives for the project. Greater Rochester Enterprise also assisted with the expansion effort. Construction on the planned updates is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2025.

The sales tax on cigarettes in New York State will increase by $1 starting today.  The state’s current sales tax on a pack of 20 cigarettes is $4.35, and will now jump to $5.35 statewide.  The average smoking rate in New York State is 12 percent.  Vendors will also be required to display health advisories in close proximity to the products and outside the stores, warning customers of the dangers of nicotine addiction and smoke inhalation.  Those signs will be on display by Sept. 30 and will be up until June 2025, according to the American Lung Association.

Kipenzi, a 6-year-old Masai giraffe at the Seneca Park Zoo, has been diagnosed with cancer, the zoo announced Thursday.  Kipenzi underwent a high-risk procedure Aug. 15, with a team of veterinarians performing a biopsy and radiograph on a growth on her jaw.  The biopsy results revealed the growth is a squamous cell carcinoma and is invasive through the jaw bone.  Due to its location they cannot remove it with surgery.  The zoo said Kipenzi’s medical team will continue to monitor her health closely, especially her ability to eat and maintain a healthy weight.  If the growth grows large enough that she can’t eat, zoo staff say they may have to euthanize her.  

Did you look up in the sky and see some words or perhaps a smiley face looking back at you on Thursday?  Nathan Hammond flew a 1956 deHavilland Chipmunk to skywrite above Rochester, Batavia and Buffalo Thursday to get people’s attention about the Batavia Airshow coming up Saturday.  Hammond started writing in the sky about 20 years ago using a paraffin based smoking oil.  He says there are only 4 skywriters in the US and about a dozen worldwide.  His plane is going to be part of the finale for the show on Saturday and Sunday.  The airshow starts at 5:00PM each day and runs until 9:00PM. Gates open at 2:00PM.

The Erie County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warning to residents throughout our area about an ongoing scam. Officials say scammers have been reaching out to people claiming to be from the Warrants and Citations division and saying they have an urgent civil matter to discuss. The sheriff’s department says folks should not give out personal information over the phone to these individuals. Residents who get one of these calls are asked to report it.

 

As of the end of July, the unemployment rate nationally was 3.8%, the same as it was one year ago. However, the number of people working has grown by 2.9 million in the year – from 159.1 million to 162.0 million. Statewide, the unemployment rate has dropped from 4.3 to 4.1 percent since a year ago last month. New York also has 178,200 more people working in that time – from 9.284 million to 9.462 million. In Genesee County, our unemployment rate remains unchanged at only 2.6%. Orleans County’s unemployment rate dropped from 4.1% last year to 3.5%.

 

The getaway driver involved in a shooting that took the life of a three-year-old boy is going to be spending decades in prison. Yesterday, a judge sentenced Jonay Robinson to at least 40 years behind bars. In 2021, Dequan Richardson opened fire on Donovan Drive in Buffalo, and Shaquelle Walker Junior ended up being hit and killed by gunfire. Robinson’s attorney is planning to appeal because Richardson only received a minimum sentence of 25 years.

 

An elderly Penn Yan man is likely going to be charged in connection with the death of his wife. Authorities say the 89-year-old suffers from dementia and it is believed he killed his spouse by using a bath towel to strangle her. The couple were discovered at their residence earlier this week after a home health aide went to check on them. Their names haven’t been released.

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: A Good Samaritan is credited with saving a shooting victim’s life Tuesday night. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to Interstate 390 near the Chili Avenue exit shortly before midnight following a report of a shooting. Deputies said the victim, a 30-year-old man who was shot multiple times, managed to drive himself to the Sunoco gas station just off the expressway on Chili Avenue, where a good Samaritan took him to Strong Memorial Hospital. The victim has since been discharged, MCSO said.

 

 

The investigation continues into a deadly crash in Cheektowaga between a motorcycle and tractor-trailer. The wreck happened Tuesday night on Broadway. A man on a motorcycle was going east when he collided with the tractor-trailer as it was traveling west. The rider, 30-year-old Zachary Reimers, died at the scene. No charges have been filed.

 

Republican lawmakers are demanding Albany’s state legislature hold a special session to urgently deal with the state’s rapidly worsening migrant crisis. The letter, sent by six GOP politicians in the Assembly, says that both the Assembly and the Senate should be reconvened — as more than 59,000 migrants are currently in New York’s care on the taxpayer dime. Governor Hochul was in Washington DC over the last few days meeting with President Biden. She asked that the White House approve work permits for the migrants and asylum seekers since putting them to work and then getting them permanent housing would help to solve the migrant crisis in New York State.

 

Legislators in New York have passed a bill that would form a commission to determine what, if any, reparations the state owes black residents. The bill goes to Governor Hochul’s desk for signing. Proponents say that racial inequity needs to be addressed and the state will help atone for past racism with the work of the commission. They cite redlining, higher incarceration numbers among African Americans, and economic inequality in their push for racial reparations. If Governor Hochul signs the bill the commission would meet within 6 months.

 

The Buffalo Bisons will be doing their part to help raise money for the Firefighter Jason Arno Memorial Foundation. The team is going to donate proceeds from tickets it sells to its game at Sahlen Field on September 23rd. The tickets will cost $12 apiece and can be bought online or at the stadium box office. The foundation was set up in honor of Arno who died while battling a blaze earlier this year.

ELSEWHERE…

 

Stargazers may get to see a rare “Full Super Blue Moon” this evening. The second of two August super moons, this one will be the closest full moon to the Earth’s surface, at just over 222,000 miles away, according to EarthSky. The blue moon will likely be at its brightest around 9:30pm Eastern Time.

 

Labor Day weekend is coming up fast, and the Transportation Security Administration has some tips for folks to make their travels a bit less stressful. The agency says it is important for people to know what is allowed in checked and/or carry-on baggage so they can move quickly through screening. Also, it’s recommended that people arrive at least two hours before their flight to allow enough time to park and go through security. Anyone with questions can text the word travel to 275-872.

 

A pig kidney is still functioning in a brain-dead man six weeks after transplant surgery. New York University Langone Health says this is the longest period a pig kidney has functioned in a human being. Surgeons transplanted the genetically engineered organ after the 57-year-old man’s family agreed to donated his body because his organs weren’t suitable for transplant. The NYU Langone Transplant Institute director said the kidney is doing all the jobs that a normal human kidney would do.

 

 

A Capitol rioter who bragged on social media that he “took the White House” has been arrested in Georgia. The FBI said Wednesday that 52-year-old William Beals is being charged with a felony count of knowingly making false statements and several other offenses. The FBI says he was part of a group that “physically overpowered” officers in the Senate wing on January 6th, 2021.

 

Today is Thursday, August 31st, the 243rd day of the year.

August 31 in history…

…In 1887, inventor Thomas Edison received a patent for the kinetographic camera. The device produced moving pictures.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1895, the first professional football game was played in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. The quarterback on the winning team was paid $10.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1969, former heavyweight boxing champion Rocky Marciano was killed in an airplane crash in Iowa. He is the only heavyweight champion to have finished his career undefeated. The story: Marciano was in Chicago on Aug. 31, 1969 — the day before his 46th birthday — where he had dinner with STP company CEO Andy Granatelli. He then boarded a Cessna 172 single-engine plane to fly to Des Moines for a private birthday party. Pilot Glenn Belz, a contractor, and insurance man Frank Ferrell, both of Des Moines, had flown the plane from Des Moines to pick up Marciano. Belz had little experience with night flying and no instrument training. They hit bad weather, and Belz tried to land the plane at the airport outside of Newton. At about 9 p.m., people on the ground heard a plane engine sputtering above the Henry Eilander farm, about 2 miles south of the airport. One witness saw the plane’s lights, heard the engine stop and then heard an “awful thud.” The plane came down in a pasture 2 miles short of the runway. It hit an oak tree, breaking apart and killing the three men instantly. The casket bearing Marciano’s body was loaded onto a United Airlines Boeing 727 the next day and flown to his hometown, Brockton, Massachusetts. Following services there, the casket was flown to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he had lived for several years, for burial.

 

…In 1978, Emily and Bill Harris plead guilty to the 1974 kidnapping of Patty Hearst, the granddaughter of American publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst. She first became known for the events following her 1974 kidnapping by the Symbionese Liberation Army. She was found and arrested 19 months after being abducted, by which time she was a fugitive wanted for serious crimes committed with members of the group. She was held in custody, and there was speculation before trial that her family’s resources would enable her to avoid time in prison. At her trial, the prosecution suggested that Hearst had joined the Symbionese Liberation Army of her own volition. However, she testified that she had been raped and threatened with death while held captive. In 1976, she was convicted for the crime of bank robbery and sentenced to 35 years in prison, later reduced to 7 years. Her sentence was commuted by President Jimmy Carter, and she was later pardoned by President Bill Clinton.

 

…In 1987, Michael Jackson’s album, “Bad,” was released with more than two-million in advance sales.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1997, Britain’s Princess Diana was killed in an automobile accident in Paris, France. She was 36. Diana’s companion, Dodi Al-Fayed and the car’s driver Henri Paul were also killed in the accident. Bodyguard Trevor Rees-Jones was the only survivor.

 

Police are investigating a fatal drive-by shooting in the Beechwood neighborhood Wednesday morning.  Officers responded to the intersection of Hayward Avenue and Beechwood Street just after 11 a.m. for a report of a person shot.  Police said a man in his late 40s was walking down Beechwood Street when someone in a vehicle shot him, firing almost two dozen rounds.  Officers found the man with multiple gunshot wounds. He was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.  Wednesday night another person was shot to death on Tremont Street and a man was shot on Angle Street but is expected to survive.  No arrests have been made in any of the 3 shootings.

A good Samaritan is credited with saving a shooting victim’s life Tuesday night.  The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to Interstate 390 near the Chili Avenue exit shortly before midnight following a report of a shooting.  Deputies said the victim, a 30-year-old man who was shot multiple times, managed to drive himself to the Sunoco gas station just off the expressway on Chili Avenue, where a good Samaritan took him to Strong Memorial Hospital.  The victim has since been discharged, MCSO said.

Republican New York lawmakers are demanding Albany’s state legislature hold a special session to urgently deal with the state’s rapidly worsening migrant crisis.  The letter, sent by six GOP politicians in the Assembly, says that both the Assembly and the Senate should be reconvened — as more than 59,000 migrants are currently in New York’s care on the taxpayer dime.  Governor Hochul was in Washington DC over the last few days meeting with President Biden.  She says she demanded that the White House get work permits for the migrants and asylum seekers and that putting them to work and getting them permanent housing would solve the migrant crisis in the state.  

The New York legislature has passed a bill that would form a commission to determine what, if any, reparations the state owes black residents for slavery.  The bill goes to Governor Hochul’s desk for signing.  Proponents say that racial inequity needs to be addressed and the state will help atone for past racism with the work of the commission.  They cite redlining, higher incarceration numbers among african americans, and economic inequality in their push for racial reparations.  If Governor Hochul signs the bill the commission would meet within 6 months.

Labor Daze in Oakfield is celebrating its 39th year this coming weekend.  There will be several new musical groups and food offerings, plus more arts and craft vendors, a new boxcar derby and the festival is sharing this year’s 5K proceeds through scholarships to local students.  Kiddie Fun Day goes from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday. That used to happen at Schoolhouse Manor, but due to construction, fun day has been moved over to the town park on Drake Street.  There will also be vehicles, including a school bus and a tractor, parked for kids to see and perhaps climb onto,  and a visit from a K-9 officer.  Saturday, the SkyCats, Hazzard County and the Dave Viterna Group will be performing on the stage after Dance Images.  Sunday and Monday will continue the fun with more bands and more activities and vendors.  The whole weekend will be capped off by a performance from The Floyd Concept tribute band.

The Buffalo Bisons will be doing their part to help raise money for the Firefighter Arno Memorial Foundation. The team is going to donate proceeds from tickets it sells to its game at Sahlen Field on September 23rd. The tickets will cost 12-dollars apiece and can be bought online or at the stadium box office. The foundation was set up in honor of Buffalo firefighter Jason Arno who died while battling a blaze earlier this year.

42-year-old Jason Clark, the former teacher and principal at St Paul Lutheran School in Batavia, may have violated his parole by telling conflicting statements to his parole officer. In court when he entered his guilty plea he stated that he had sexual contact with a child, touching her chest on multiple occasions. He told his parole officer he isn’t and has never been attracted to children. However, the judge noted that contradicts his sworn admission in court. A hearing that is likely to include testimony from the probation officer, is scheduled for October 17th (at 10:30am).

 

 

Governor Hochul has revealed new steps that are aimed at protecting New Yorkers from a recent surge in COVID-19 cases. The governor says the Wadsworth Lab is monitoring samples for a new variant that has yet to be detected in the Empire State. The Department of Health has also reached out to nursing homes to remind them that it is their responsibility to keep residents safe. Also, N-95 masks and test kits are being made available to county and local governments upon request.

 

An investigation is underway after a Buffalo police officer was involved in a shooting. According to authorities, the officer was off-duty and working as a security guard at a business on Elmwood Avenue yesterday. There was a struggle between the guard and a customer who was attempting to steal items from the store when the guard’s gun went off and the customer suffered a non-life-threatening hand injury. The name of the officer hasn’t been made public.

 

Some new data shows more than 3,000 vehicles have been stolen in Monroe County since the start of 2023. Last month, the sheriff’s office launched a task force to try and reduce the number of these crimes. Members say there has been some progress made because 42 people have been arrested. There have also been over 100 citations issued and 11 stolen vehicles recovered. The task force plans to continue for the foreseeable future.

 

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressman Brian Higgins will be making an important announcement later today. The Buffalo News is reporting they’re going to announce that $22 million in federal funds will go towards the Hispanic Heritage Cultural Institute in Buffalo. The goal of this venture is to celebrate Hispanic heritage, arts, and culture while encouraging a sense of community. The institute will be located on Niagara Street and could be open by the end of next year.

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: Mike Sputore has been hired as the Blue Devils varsity baseball coach. Sputore, a Batavia native, played as a member of the Ramblers, who were coached by his father, Paul, in the Batavia Minor League on the diamond at the corner of State and Denio Streets and continuing through two seasons as a pitcher and third baseman for the Genesee Community College Cougars. For the last two years he was coach at Pembroke Central School. He said he hopes to get his players on the field for some practice in October and is planning some “winter workouts” with the drop-down batting cage at the high school’s auxiliary gym. He also is excited about the “Meet the Coach Night” on Sept. 12 at the high school for all of the program’s players and parents.

 

The Buffalo Bills are going to be without one of their best defensive players when the regular season starts. Von Miller has been put on the physically unable to perform list as his recovery from a knee injury continues. The earliest Miller can play would be Week Five when Buffalo battles the Jacksonville Jaguars. Last season, Miller had 21 tackles and eight sacks in 11 games for the Bills.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

A new study says the majority of dog owners are skeptical of vaccines, including the rabies shot. Published in the medical journal Vaccine, it finds that 53% of dog owners have concerns about the safety or necessity of vaccines for their four-legged friends. More than a third also believed vaccines could cause “cognitive issues” in dogs leading to autism – a theory that has no scientific evidence. The study says hesitancy to vaccinate dogs is an issue because without them, disease could spread through both canine and human population.

 

COVID-19 Hospitalizations are up by another 19%. According to the CDC, deaths also saw a large jump by 21% in one week. More than half of US states saw a “substantial” jump. South Dakota had the biggest spike, with hospitalizations surging more than 127% in one week. A new booster likely won’t be approved until the end of September.

 

 

CBS is set to air a special tribute show to the late Bob Barker. Drew Carey will host “The Price Is Right: A Tribute to Bob Baker” on Thursday. It will feature highlights from Barker’s time hosting the game show like his first episode, the first appearance of Plinko and his final episode when he retired in 2007. The Daytime Emmy-winning host passed away at the age of 99 on Saturday.

 

 

A new WalletHub study says New York and New Jersey are among the top states to live. It compared all 50 states based on 51 livability categories. Massachusetts was number one, followed by New Jersey, New Hampshire, New York and Wyoming. Massachusetts took the top spots for education and health, New Jersey for safety and New York for quality of life but they all ranked low for affordability. Connecticut was in the middle at 26.

 

 

A woman has been leaving $2,000 tips for wait staff at the Dalrock Diner in Rowlett, Texas. So far three servers have received the generous tips, and they’re not sure why. They refer to her as the “angel tipper,” and so far they haven’t caught her name. The restaurant doesn’t have pool tips, so each fortunate server gets the entire $2,000.

 

 

A New Jersey park will remain closed through Thursday following multiple alligator sightings. Police say it’s just one alligator, a three- to-four footer that was likely someone’s illegal pet until it got too big for the bathtub and got re-homed in Victor Crowell Park in the Borough of Middlesex. The gator’s been spotted several times since last Friday, once by a local who saw the gator dive under the water with a duck in its mouth and another time by a cop who tried to shoot it. So many drones are out looking for the gator that one got stuck in a tree Monday night.

Today is Wednesday, August 30th, the 242nd day of the year.

August 30 in history…

 

…In 1965, Casey Stengel announced his retirement after 55 years in baseball.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1967, the U.S. Senate confirmed the appointment of Thurgood Marshall as the first black justice on the U.S. Supreme Court.

 

 

 

…In 1979, the first recorded instance of a comet hitting the sun. The energy of the collision was equal to about one million hydrogen bombs.

 

 

 

 

…In 1997, Americans first learned that Princess Diana, her boyfriend, Dodi Fayed, and their driver, Henri Paul, were involved in a fatal car crash in a Paris tunnel. Diana’s Bodyguard Trevor Rees-Jones survived. Due to the time difference, Princess Diana was actually pronounced dead on the morning of August 31st.

 

 

 

…In 1993, “Late Show with David Letterman” debuted on CBS Television. And in case you missed it, here’s the detailed story of speculation regarding David’s transition from NBC to CBS. This article was originally published in The New York Times on January 29, 1992:

 

Having sworn off his famous Top 10 lists — for the moment, anyway — David Letterman will not identify the No. 1 reason he got angry at NBC.
But if he did, he said, the top item would surely not be that NBC named Jay Leno the new host of the “Tonight” show.

“Actually, I’m not very angry with them at all now,” Mr. Letterman said during a recent interview, just after taping his show. “I was always kind of ticked off at them, but it was not so much the ‘Tonight’ thing. I was pretty sure Jay was going to get the job, so that didn’t anger me. But other things did.”

The other things seem to be centered in an abiding dislike of NBC’s corporate parent, General Electric. Mostly the anger translated into a general feeling that he and his show had been taken for granted for the 10 years he had been on the air. NBC executives have been wondering and worrying about just how angry Mr. Letterman might be since May, when the network more or less decreed that Mr. Letterman, with his quirky, edgy humor, was better suited to a later time period, and anointed the more mainstream comedian, Mr. Leno, as the future king of the late-night empire ruled for 30 years by Johnny Carson, called a Network ‘Treasure’.

The network definitely wants to keep Mr. Letterman where he is, on his successful 12:30 A.M. show, “Late Night.” Warren Littlefield, the president of NBC Entertainment, called him a network “treasure.” He said NBC would do everything it could to make the comedian happy. Mr. Letterman’s response: “Yeah, that’s great. But also that’s the way it should have been for 10 years.”
One NBC executive who has negotiated with Mr. Letterman in the past called him “a brilliant guy, but the most complex human being I’ve ever encountered.” And several NBC executives admit they are not sure they will be able to keep him. Nor did Mr. Letterman dispel NBC’s concerns. He said, rather, that at age 44 he might be getting too old to stay up until 12:30 to watch his show every night and that he might look for offers for a show that might make bedtime more appropriate to someone his age, one, say, that started at 11:30. At least one network, CBS, might have a time period that would allow Mr. Letterman an earlier nighty-night, and ABC could at least offer him midnight, after “Nightline.”

 

Then there is always the possibility that Mr. Letterman could skip the network business entirely and take his show into syndication. That is a chancier but potentially a much more lucrative business. Mr. Letterman appears to have thought that part of it through. Though he said, “Money doesn’t make much difference to me whatsoever,” Mr. Letterman later said of the risks of syndication, “It’s a roll of the dice, but then again, Arsenio Hall took the same roll and made himself a very wealthy young fellow.” All those considerations have not made NBC’s task in re-wooing and renewing Mr. Letterman any easier.

Mr. Letterman has never courted publicity. He is talking now, he said, to acknowledge the milestone he and his staff will reach on Thursday night, when they celebrate the 10th anniversary of “Late Night” with a 90-minute, prime-time special on NBC. Mr. Letterman even consented to appear on a Barbara Walters special (on ABC tonight at 9), something he has repeatedly turned down in the past. Sitting in his large but spartan office at NBC, which is decorated along the lines of a sporting goods outlet (there is a tall trash can full of footballs and an entire shelf full of baseball gloves, including one autographed by Mickey Mantle that he actually uses in staff softball games), Mr. Letterman described his career thus far, relying heavily on self-deprecating cracks. “I don’t have any pretense about the reason we’ve been here 10 years,” he said. “It’s Johnny Carson. I’m telling you, you could put squirrels mating in a cage on after Carson and you’re going to get an audience.”

His anniversary show was a great experience, he said, especially for the guest appearance by Bob Dylan (and for the return of the temporarily shelved Top 10 list), but was still cause for worry. “First you have to fill Radio City twice, for two tapings,” he said. “Then you know that not as many people are going to watch as watch ‘L.A. Law.’ Actually, what will happen is the Barbara Walters special that I will be on will do better than the anniversary special — because people will want to see Phil Donahue and Marlo.” Despite all the worries, Mr. Letterman admitted a 10th anniversary carries a certain “resonance,” enough to get him talking about himself. “I just felt a small celebration is called for, being on 10 years.”

Contract Up Next Year
He is not using the occasion to sound off about NBC, not exactly anyway. But he is answering the obvious questions about his feelings toward the network, sometimes indicating that his relationship with it has improved ( “things are really much better”), sometimes dropping rather provocative hints that no matter what NBC does now, he will be moving in a new direction when his contract with the network expires in a year: “We’re very lucky and we probably could stay here as long as wanted. But then again after 10 years — or 11 after next year, when my contract is up — if you’re going to take risks you might as well take them after 11 years.” None of this is directly motivated by the opportunity to go after Mr. Leno at 11:30, Mr. Letterman said: “I was never mad at Jay. I feel silly all of this became a sort of issue because to me it’s just, everybody has problems with work. And you talk about them and you fight about them and hopefully you reach some sort of reconcilation.”

Most of the fights, Mr. Letterman said, have been with G.E., which he blamed for what he called the numerous slights his show had suffered over the past few years. Trying to Make Money
“These things were coming from the financial side,” he said. “From the G.E. managers. It was almost this: ‘Dave, when you’re done with your ties, would you mind if we take them and rent them out to restaurants where you have to wear a coat and tie? We can make a little money that way.’ It was that silly.” He said the “Tonight” show decision was a real disappointment, but more in a “last straw” kind of way: “My feeling was to call somebody’s bluff and say: O.K., here’s A, here’s B and now here’s C. Do you want us here at all? Because you’re certainly not behaving like you want us here.” He continued: “By the time they came to let me know the ‘Tonight’ show was going to Jay, I felt like this was something that can be put on the list to forge some action, to get us some better treatment. And I must say things are better for us here now than they have been.”

Whether he moves on or not, Mr. Letterman said, he sees his show evolving into something different. The show became famous for such outlandish touches as having Mr. Letterman don a suit of Alka Seltzer and jump into a glass of water, and, of course, for those Top 10 lists (they began in 1985 with “Top 10 Things That Almost Rhyme With Peas.”) But it is likely to become “less goofy” in the future. He cited an idea suggested to him recently: “We were going to ask one guest if they wanted a chance to double their weekly paycheck or lose the whole thing.” But after his staff built a “Wheel of Fortune” prop, he said, “I told them I’m not Bob Barker here. I don’t want this. For some reason an idea that I think would have been on immediately early on, now seems to be not even plausible.” The “less goofy” version of “Late Night” is likely to be on the market — to NBC and others — about this time next year. “I’m open to the possibilities,” Mr. Letterman said. “Maybe it’s just a way to protect yourself, but I feel like the buffer against failure is I can always say we did it for 10 years. And if you step off the pier and never come back up, so what?”

 

 

Rochester Police are investigating a mass shooting in the city’s downtown area Tuesday night.  Officers responded to a parking lot on Savannah Street just North of the Museum of Play around 8:15 p.m. for the report of people shot.  They found two women, ages 63 and 29, with non-life threatening gunshot wounds.  Police said a third victim, a 39-year-old man, was found in the area of East Main and Scio streets at the scene of a crash where a car was flipped over. He’s also expected to survive.  The fourth victim, a 24-year-old man, was taken to the hospital by private vehicle with life-threatening injuries.  Police did not say if any arrests have been made as the investigation continues.

By August 29th there had been more than 3000 cases of Car Theft in Monroe county according to Rochester Police.  In July, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office launched its multi-agency stolen car task force.  Since then, MCSO reports 42 arrests.  Not only have there been dozens of arrests, but the sheriff’s office also indicates it has issued more than 100 traffic citations and recovered 11 stolen vehicles.  Investigators state that it’s mainly juveniles behind the wheel of these stolen cars.  They say it is difficult to catch the kids and dangerous to chase them down with many such incidents ending in crashes.  According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the task force will continue for the foreseeable future.

An asylum seeker who was being housed in Buffalo is in jail after breaking windows and assaulting a person.  28-year-old Gustavo Diaz Carvajal of Venezuela was arraigned on Saturday in Cheektowaga Town Court on one count of second-degree criminal mischief, one count of third-degree assault and one count of second-degree harassment.  The district attorney’s office said Diaz Carvajal, along with another unidentified individual, is accused of breaking the glass of three windows and three doors by throwing rocks at a lounge on the 600 block of Dingens Street. Officials estimated the damage at approximately $12,000. When Diaz Carvajal was confronted by an employee of the building he allegedly attacked the employee. He is accused of intentionally kicking and punching the victim, causing an injury to the victim’s left knee.  According to the district attorney’s office, Diaz Carvajal is an asylum seeker here in Western New York and was living at a hotel on Dingens Street. He continues to be held on bail set at $50,000 cash, insurance bond or partially secured surety bond.

Jason Clark, the former teacher and principal at St Paul Lutheran School in Batavia, may have violated his parole by telling conflicting statements to his parole officer.  In court when he entered his guilty plea he stated that he had sexual contact with a child, touching her chest on multiple occasions, to satisfy his sexual desires.  He told his parole officer he isn’t and has never been attracted to children which Judge Melissa Cianfrini says is in contradiction of his sworn admission in court.  Cianfrini ordered a hearing, which will likely include testimony from the probation officer, for 10:30 a.m. on Oct. 17.

The Flying J travel center in Pembroke has been remodeled. The renovations are part of Pilot Company’s nationwide initiative, called New Horizons, to invest $1 billion in remodeling its stores to upgrade the experience for team members and guests and prepare for the future of travel. Additionally, Pilot Company is donating $10,000 to Pembroke Central School District as part of its commitment to giving back. The remodel included new showers and bathrooms, expanded food options and beverage coolers and updated laundry facilities.  

Mike Sputore has been hired as the Blue Devils varsity baseball coach.  Sputore, a Batavia native, played as a member of the Ramblers, who were coached by his father, Paul, in the Batavia Minor League on the diamond at the corner of State and Denio Streets and continuing through two seasons as a pitcher and third baseman for the Genesee Community College Cougars.  For the last two years he was coach at Pembroke Central School.  He said he hopes to get his players on the field for some practice in October and is planning some “winter workouts” with the drop-down batting cage at the high school’s auxiliary gym. He also is excited about the “Meet the Coach Night” on Sept. 12 at the high school for all of the program’s players and parents.

The call came in early last evening to report a fire at 10 Prune Street. The neighborhood streets there are narrow, and houses are close together. The Tully’s parking lot was right behind the house. That made it tight quarters to maneuver trucks and fight the fire. Unloading hoses quickly and getting them into place fast was difficult. City Fire Chief Josh Graham relayed that there was significant damage to the second story of the residence with smoke and water damage to the first floor; and the garage, where the fire started was a total loss. Chief Graham added that a neighboring house sustained some heat damage. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Click below for the comprehensive story from our news partner:

https://www.thebatavian.com/howard-owens/house-on-prune-street-heavily-damage-from-fire-that-started-in-garage/636258

 

Genesee and Orleans County Sheriffs along with State Police responded to a call that came into Monroe County of a possible murder suicide in the area of Darien on Countyline Rd on Monday afternoon. The caller said that a person had shot his girlfriend and then killed himself. It was determined that the call was a prank or “Swatting” incident. Chief Deputy Joseph Graff said prank calls like this are a public hazard. Authorities are working to identify the caller and personally inform them of how dangerous swatting calls can be. They could face a felony or misdemeanor charge from the incident. The detailed story from our news partner is available below:

https://www.thebatavian.com/howard-owens/call-into-monroe-county-dispatch-found-to-be-swatting-incident/636254

 

Batavia Police are investigating a shots fired report on Oak Street in Batavia; multiple calls came into 9-1-1 last night a little before 11:00. There were no reported injuries and patrols remained in place overnight as crime scene investigators checked the area.

 

 

 

New York State Bridges are in desperate need of repair and replacement. A Scripps News investigation found 537 bridges in the state have been rated in “poor” condition for a decade or more. This is the ninth most in the United States. That’s just a portion of the 14,000 bridges that have been listed in poor condition for at least 10 years across the United States, according to data from the Federal Highway Administration. Five bridges in the City of Buffalo are on the list, including the Louisiana Street Bridge over I-190. New York State invested more than $80 million on bridge replacement and rehabilitation in Western New York over the last five years, but still falls short in fixing all state bridges in disrepair. There are many more bridges in need of repair than money available to fix them, both at the federal and local levels. (File photo)

 

The City of Buffalo is now ranked as one of the best places in the country to live for families. The study was conducted by U.S. News and World Report, which put Buffalo in 17th on its latest list. The three factors considered were quality of life, affordability, and also job market opportunities. Topping the list was Huntsville, Alabama followed by San Jose, California and Green Bay, Wisconsin. By the way, Rochester ranked 21st.

 

 

Buffalo Sabres owner Terry Pegula has revealed an organizational change involving the National Hockey League franchise. Pegula Sports and Entertainment is being dissolved, and Pegula is now going to be serving as the team’s new president. Pegula’s wife Kim was previously the president of the Sabres, but she’s still recovering after suffering cardiac a arrest last year. Terry Pegula will work alongside both the Sabres COO and General Manager to run the team.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

Idalia has now reached hurricane status. The National Hurricane Center says the Category 1 storm is packing maximum sustained winds of 75 miles per hour as it makes its way toward Florida. Forecasters expect Idalia to continue gaining strength, intensifying into an extremely dangerous, major hurricane before it makes landfall Wednesday.

 

That 200-year-old West Point time capsule opened Monday turned out to be a bust. The small lead box found in May in the base of an 1829 monument was met with great fanfare. What could be in it: medals, money, musket balls? As it turned out, nothing but silt, according to the scientist who examined the box. But, he promised to sift the silt and look further to determine what if anything was in the box.

 

 

A viral San Diego bike thief is under arrest thanks to an anonymous tip. Video shows a man walking up to an open garage and taking a $1,300 e-bike. As he’s leaving, a golden retriever walks up to say hello. The thief stops, walks the bike back into the garage and spends about a minute giving the dog kisses and belly rubs before he escapes with the bike. The police say the suspect is a 42-year-old male but have not released a name. As far as the golden retriever, his name is Ace and SDPD is on record calling him a very good boy.

 

Elton John is recovering after a fall at his home in the French city of Nice. Representatives for the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer said he went to the hospital as a precautionary measure, but has since been discharged and is back at home.

 

 

 

Supermarket chain Wegmans has announced a recall of its Jamaican Jerk Style chicken breast and thighs. The products have undeclared allergens in them including milk, soy, and wheat which are not listed on the label. According to the USDA, this problem was caused by an equipment malfunction that might have led to cross-contamination. No illnesses have been reported and anyone who purchased these products can return them for a refund.

 

 

Starting later this week, the cost of smoking is going to be rising across the Empire State. That is because the tax on a package of cigarettes will be increasing by $1 per pack beginning on Friday. The current state cigarette tax is $4.35 per pack, and the excise tax on little cigars will also increase by $1 for a pack of 20. This is the first time in more than a decade New York has raised taxes on cigarettes.

Today is Tuesday, August 29th, the 241st day of the year.

August 29 in history…

 

…In 1958, the Air Force Academy opened in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1977, three people were arrested in Memphis, Tennessee, for trying to dig up the body of Elvis Presley. Vernon Presley soon arranged to have the bodies of his son and his wife moved to the grounds of Graceland mansion.

 

 

…In 1996, golfer Tiger Woods made his professional debut when he teed off in the first round of the Greater Milwaukee Open.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1997, Netflix was founded by Marc Randolph and Reed Hasting in Scotts Valley, California as an online DVD rental business.

 

 

 

…In 2005, Hurricane Katrina tore into the Gulf Coast on this date leaving devastating effects in the city of New Orleans, and surrounding areas. Thousands of people who didn’t or couldn’t leave the city were trapped in the flooded city without food, clean water or power. Many took refuge at the city’s Superdome and Convention Center. The Category 5 Hurricane is estimated to have caused over $100 billion in damage and killed more than 1,500 people in Louisiana, including Barry Cowsill who lived in New Orleans at the time.

 

 

…In 2013, hundreds of fast food workers went on strike demanding the hourly wage be $15 an hour.

Genesee and Orleans County Sheriffs along with State Police responded to a call that came into Monroe County emergency dispatch of a possible murder suicide in the area of Darien on Countyline Rd on Monday afternoon.  The caller said that a person had shot his girlfriend and then killed himself.  It was determined that the call was a prank or “Swatting” incident.  Chief Deputy Joseph Graff said prank calls like this are a public hazard.  Authorities are working to identify the caller and personally inform them of how dangerous swatting calls can be.  They could face a felony or misdemeanor charge from the incident.  

Legislators from 6 counties, Niagara, Orleans, Wyoming, Genesee, Livingston and Seneca, have joined together to challenge the bill passed by New York State legislators to seize control of the Western Regional Off Track Betting Corp board in favor of large cities instead of parceling out power equally.  Genesee County Legislature Chair Rochelle Stein said that premise of the litigation is “to protect the counties’ Home Rule rights” – the one-county, one-vote format — that have been in place since WROTB’s creation 50 years ago.  The state legislature voted to change the board structure after a report saying WROTB had illegally given away tickets to Bills and Sabres games to board members and friends, the CEO, Henry Wojtaszek had improperly used a company car, and the board members and directors benefited from special health insurance not available to employees.  Wojtaszek said that the company had taken action to correct the issues well before the state vote.

A person currently seeking asylum here in the U.S. is now facing charges over a weekend fight at the Red Roof Inn in Amherst.  Police were initially called to the hotel on Flint Road over reports of a fight involving a knife. When officers arrived on scene they say no knife was involved but that the suspect, identified as 35-year-old Daniel Narvaez-Velasqu, used a roofing nail during the fight.  Narvaez-Velasqu, is now charged with Attempted Assault, Menacing and Criminal Possession of a Weapon. Police say he was processed on the charges and released on an appearance ticket.

Batavia Police are investigating a shots fired report on Oak Street in Batavia from around 10:50 Monday night.  At about 10:50 p.m., dispatchers asked a patrol officer to switch to LE Secure (the encrypted channel for police communications), and another officer responded that he had heard gunshots while he was still inside the police station. The dispatcher said the 9-1-1 Center had received multiple calls.  A source said there are no reported injuries at this time and patrols were in place overnight and crime scene investigators were checking the area.

NY Bridges are in desperate need of repair and replacement.  A Scripps News investigation found 537 bridges in New York State have been rated in “poor” condition for a decade or more. That’s the ninth most in the United States.  That’s just a portion of the 14,000 bridges that have been listed in poor condition for at least 10 years across the United States, according to data from the Federal Highway Administration.  Five bridges in the City of Buffalo are on the list, including the Louisiana Street bridge over I-190.  New York State invested more than $80 million on bridge replacement and rehabilitation in Western New York over the last five years, but still falling short in fixing all state bridges in disrepair.  There are many more bridges in need of repair than money available to fix them, both at the federal and local levels.

The Buffalo Sabres announced owner Terry Pegula has been named president of the team and he will continue to work closely with COO John Roth who is leading the business side of the organization and general manager Kevyn Adams who is leading the hockey side of the organization.  Pegula also announced that Pegula Sports & Entertainment will be dissolved as they separate resources between the Bills and Sabres.  Terry also took over the role of president of the Bills in July as the team parted ways with executive vice president and chief operating officer Ron Raccuia.

FROM THE GENESEE COUNTY SHERIFF: 31-year-old Jamie Dutton of Batavia was arrested. He’s charged with tampering with physical evidence, criminal possession of a controlled substance, and obstructing governmental administration. It’s alleged that Dutton fled from police on a bicycle and hid under the back deck of a residence. He then allegedly discarded narcotics in an attempt to conceal them. Dutton was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court on September 5th.  ALSO: 50-year-old James Flack of Alexander has been arrested. He’s charged with harassment and criminal contempt. It’s alleged Flack struck another person in violation of a refrain from order of protection. He appeared in Genesee County CAP Court.

 

At least one teenager has been charged after being involved in a police pursuit involving stolen vehicles. Authorities say the vehicles were taken from a Holiday Inn and Double Tree Inn by a 16-year-old and 15-year-old in Niagara Falls on Saturday. Officers saw the vehicles and gave chase, and the vehicles later collided on the Niagara Scenic Parkway. The 16-year-old suffered internal injuries but the 15-year-old wasn’t hurt.

 

 

 

After being shut down for weeks, the Lockport Cave is now open for business. Back in June, a man tragically lost his life after a boat there capsized and the building department closed everything down due to exposed electrical wires. The person who died was later identified as Harshad Shah of Niagara Falls. For now, only the lantern-lit and guided walking tours are being offered.

 

 

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants tomorrow, August 29th and Wednesday, August 30th, from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the general area of South of East Main and West of Jackson Streets. Homes and businesses nearby will be affected. These tests may result in a temporary discoloration of water in that area. Do not attempt to wash any clothing if your water appears discolored. If you do experience a discoloration of your water, run cold water for about 5 minutes or until clear.

 

There has been a slight drop in gas prices over the past week. According to Triple A this morning, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $3.82. The state average – always a little bit higher – is $3.90. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.84; that’s down a penny from a week ago, but up 14 cents from a month ago today. One year ago, the average price we paid was $4.29.

 

The Buffalo Bills have started cutting players as the deadline for the team to have its 53-man roster in place looms. The defending AFC East champions parted ways with seven players including wide receiver Isaiah Coulter, safety Jared Mayden and tight end Jace Sternberger. The team also released defensive end Shane Ray from injured reserve after reaching a settlement. All roster cuts must be made by 4:00 tomorrow afternoon.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

The New York State Fair is underway, and the Department of Motor Vehicles is reminding folks that they can upgrade to a REAL ID or enhanced ID at the event. All they have to do is head to the Center of Progress building located on the fairgrounds property in Syracuse. Beginning in 2025, everyone flying in the United States will need a REAL ID or another form of federally accepted identification before being allowed to board a plane. For more information, head to DMV.NY.gov.

 

The Cinemark Tinseltown Theater in Gates is expected to reopen today after it was shut down. There were large crowds at the theatre located on Buffalo Road yesterday due to cheap tickets for National Cinema Day, which led to disturbances among customers. Law enforcement agencies responded and decided to close the theater as a precaution. No injuries were reported.

 

 

 

Another Powerball drawing has come and gone without a winner, and that means the game’s top prize is still growing. Since no one correctly picked all six winning numbers for Saturday, the jackpot tonight will be at least $363 million. There has not been a big Powerball prizewinner in a few weeks. This evening’s drawing is going to be streamed at Powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

 

 

The New York Lottery today announced one top-prize winning ticket was sold for the Aug 27 TAKE 5 MIDDAY drawing. The ticket was sold at: CROSBY’S #40015 located at 4531 LAKE AVE in LOCKPORT. The prize is: $17,458.50 The winning midday numbers yesterday were 3-14-19-24-25

 

 

 

 

Bob Barker is being remembered across the entertainment industry. The legendary “The Price Is Right” game show host died Saturday at the age of 99 at his home in Los Angeles. Actor Adam Sandler posted a photo of himself alongside Barker on Instagram, saying that he loved talking and laughing with him. Current “The Price Is Right” host Drew Carey, who succeeded Barker as host in 2007, tweeted that he will “carry his memory in my heart forever.”

 

Everyone is OK after a hot air balloon made an emergency landing on a freeway median in White River Junction, Vermont. Authorities say the pilot earns high marks for safely setting the balloon down on the median of Interstate 91 after the aircraft stalled mid-flight last week. Pilot Chris Ritland and his four passengers were in good shape after he set the balloon down, as it was getting dark. The Hartford, Vermont Fire Department said the pilot had no other options.

 

 

Recent Canadian wildfire smoke is blamed for a major jump in asthma-related trips to the emergency room. The CDC says researchers found that ER visits were 17% higher than usual in areas where wildfire smoke enveloped the region triggering air quality alerts between April and August. New York and New Jersey had the highest proportion of emergency room visits.

 

Today is Monday, August 28th, the 240th day of the year.

 

August 28 in history…

 

…In 1907, the United Parcel Service began service in Seattle, Washington.

 

 

 

 

…In 1922, the first radio commercial was broadcast on WEAF in New York City. The commercial was for an American estate agent, Queensboro Realty.

 

 

 

 

…In 1955, in a case that injected momentum into the civil rights movement, black Chicago teenager Emmett Till was kidnapped from his uncle’s home in Money, Mississippi by two white men after he was accused of whistling at a white woman. Till was found murdered three days later.

 

 

…In 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech at a civil rights rally in Washington, D.C. Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Mahalia Jackson and Peter Paul and Mary were among the artists who performed before an estimated 200,000 civil rights marchers who gathered for the rally.

 

 

 

…In 1965, Bob Dylan was booed at a concert in Forest Hills, New York for playing an electric guitar.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1972, Mark Spitz won the first of seven gold medals in the 1972 Olympic Games.

 

Multiple shootings in Rochester and a canceled night out.  A man is dead after officers say he was shot near the Sunoco gas station on Dewey Avenue in Rochester.  Rochester police say the 29-year-old victim was found in the parking lot and was taken to a hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after.  Witnesses say multiple people were fighting in the parking lot before the shooting, and that the fighting escalated to shots fired between those involved.  They say it happened around 4:25 Saturday morning.  Police say they found a 14-year-old boy shot on Columbia Avenue. Officers say it happened around 8:45 Saturday evening.  Tinseltown Theater had to be shut down as large crowds of unsupervised and rowdy teens gathered there on Sunday for national cinema day.  The theater had to be evacuated as authorities worried another shooting was about to happen.  Other businesses were also forced to close as the crowds spilled out from the theater.

At least one teenager has been charged after being involved in a police pursuit involving stolen vehicles. Authorities say the vehicles were taken from a Holiday Inn and Double Tree Inn by a 16-year-old and 15-year-old in Niagara Falls on Falls Saturday. Officers saw the vehicles and gave chase, and the vehicles later collided on the Niagara Scenic Parkway. The 16-year-old suffered internal injuries but the 15-year-old wasn’t hurt.

Gas prices update.  According to AAA the average price of a gallon of regular gas is 3.84 in Batavia which is only a penny down from last week and still 14 cents up from last month.  The New York State average is 3.90 which is down 2 cents from a week ago.  The national average is 3.81.  Right now demand is going up again but so are oil reserves and the price per barrel is staying below 80 dollars.  Come Labor day that may switch and the price could go up again.

After being shut down for weeks, the Lockport Cave is now open for business. Back in June, a man tragically lost his life after a boat there capsized and the building department closed everything down due to exposed electrical wires. The person who died was later identified as Harshad Shah of Niagara Falls. For now, only the lantern-lit and guided walking tours are being offered.

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants on Tuesday August 29th and Wednesday August 30th, from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the general area of South of E. Main St. and West of Jackson St.  Homes and businesses nearby will be affected.  These tests may result in a temporary discoloration of water in that area.  As in the past, please do not attempt to wash any clothing if your water appears discolored.  If you do experience a discoloration of your water, run cold water for about 5 minutes or until clear.

The Buffalo Bills have started cutting players as the deadline for the team to have its 53-man roster in place looms. The defending AFC East champions parted ways with seven players including wide receiver Isaiah Coulter, safety Jared Mayden and tight end Jace Sternberger. The team also released defensive end Shane Ray from injured reserve after reaching a settlement. All roster cuts must be made by four p-m tomorrow.

Two men from New York City are now facing felony charges following a yearlong joint investigation between deputies in Wyoming and Genesee counties into an identity theft scheme.  Authorities said 20 year old Joel Rojas Perallon and 30 year old Raul DeLeon DeLeon are accused of obtaining account and credit card information from victims by pretending to be Verizon Wireless workers and then fraudulently buying iPhones between April and October of 2022.  Perallon was arrested at his NYC residence earlier this month, arraigned in Wyoming and Genesee counties, and released on his own recognizance.  DeLeon turned himself into the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office this week, was arraigned in both counties, and also released from custody.  Both men are charged with identity theft, grand larceny, and scheme to defraud, according to deputies.

The Town of Cheektowaga has filed restraining orders against hotels that are housing migrants bussed out of New York City.  Their files say that any hotel housing more than 500 migrants are no longer operating as hotels and are therefore in violation of zoning laws.  The Town of Cheektowaga says they weren’t consulted about New York City’s plan to send migrants to their hotels and they had rules in place banning businesses from accepting them.  The order was granted to the Town Friday afternoon.  This is in connection to a pair of sexual assault cases, involving asylum seekers staying in town.

Erie County Comptroller Kevin Hardwick said about $114,000 in taxpayer money is missing from the Erie County Clerk’s Office.  Hardwick says that it is highly likely much more is missing.  A new nine-page analysis of the clerk’s office account and deposit activity shows discrepancies and signs of tampering. Hardwick said that there is mounting evidence of this happening from January of 2022 to June of this year and part of that evidence points to deposit tickets filled out by individual cashiers.  He added nothing has been missing since June 12th. He said the evidence has been turned in to the Erie County Sheriff’s and District Attorney’s office.

In a press release Assemblyman Steve Hawley denounced the state government’s recent decision to require background checks for all ammunition purchases in New York. While the current system allows for free customer background checks for firearm purchases, this initiative would hand over this duty to the New York State Police.  Once this new system goes into effect, customers will be charged an additional fee of $9 for firearms and $2.50 for ammunition in order to cover the cost of a background check. Hawley is disappointed the state government is once again disregarding New Yorkers’ Second Amendment rights.

A local utility company is warning customers of a possible scam involving criminals posing as employees looking for payment on late bills. National Grid has put out a notice about the scam after customers reported emails and phone calls from scammers demanding immediate payment on late bills. In some of these cases, customers have even been promised discounts on their next bill.
It’s not a new scam. The caller will provide a name, office location and an identification number; in some cases, they’re spoofing the caller ID and return number of National Grid. Customers getting these calls say they have received threats to end their service immediately unless they provide payment information. They have also been asked for Social Security numbers and National Grid account numbers. National Grid reminds customers that, while they do contact customers with past due balances to offer payment options, they never demand direct payment through prepaid debit cards and in fact, don’t accept payment through these cards. They’ll also never threaten immediate disconnection. Anyone who has been a victim of this scam is asked to contact local law enforcement. Additional suggestions to help you avoid becoming a victim of this scam and others, are listed below:

Customers are reminded that if they are provided a phone number to call that does not match the numbers on their billing statements, that it is likely a scam.

The following tips are provided to avoid becoming a victim of scams targeting National Grid employees:
· Be vigilant and on the watch for scams
· Protect yourself by verifying that you are talking to a National Grid representative, like asking for the last five digits of your National Grid account number. National Grid says that all representatives will know your account number.
· Do not provide your personal information over the phone if the caller does not know the last five digit of your account number.
· National Grid will not contact customers demanding wire transfers, Green dot, Money-Pak or other prepaid card services for payment.
· Payment to National Grid will always be left up to the customer’s discretion.

 

23-year-old Noemi Morales of Syracuse was arrested on Veteran’s Memorial Drive in Batavia. She’s charged with conspiracy and grand larceny. It’s alleged Morales stole over $8,000 in property. She was released on her own recognizance and is scheduled to return to the Town of Batavia Court at a later date.

 

A teenager has been arrested in connection with a stabbing that happened at the LaSalle Preparatory School in Niagara Falls. According to police, the 15-year-old suspect stabbed a 17-year-old boy during a fight on Wednesday night. The victim suffered an arm injury and was taken to Oishei Children’s Hospital. The 15-year-old is now facing an assault charge.

 

 

 

Buffalo police have confirmed that Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz has been named in a domestic incident report. The alleged incident between Poloncarz and a woman happened last Saturday at a home and the woman says she was pushed against a window after seeing Poloncarz’s text messages. She does not plan to file charges against Poloncarz and he’s characterizing what happened as a bad breakup. He also said that he didn’t hit the woman.

 

New York State’s Labor Department is launching a process to connect migrants with jobs. Governor Hochul says the latest effort will allow asylum seekers to immediately start working once they are granted legal work authorization. She also says this move will allow new arrivals to move towards financial independence. Hochul has also sent a letter to the Biden Administration requesting the president take action to reduce the strain the migrant crisis has put on the state’s resources and facilities.

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: Ellicott Station’s future is up in the air as the construction company, Savarino Companies, has announced a ceasing of operations. City Manager Rachel Tabelski says that the company has not been in contact with the city since the announcement and the city has received calls from other developers and construction companies about continuing the work. City officials plan to meet with staff from the New York State Office of Homes and Community Renewal in September, which has been in the works since the city learned about lower-than-expected income requirements at Ellicott Station. First promised as market rate, then workforce housing, the apartment complex’s application surprised city officials earlier this year with low to very low-income levels, prompting them to reach out to HCR for assistance to see what could be done to raise those income levels to allow for workforce housing tenants. Genesee County Economic Development Center CEO Steve Hyde said Wednesday that the agency is working to determine the next steps to be taken and that the agency had already found the company to be in default of its financial agreement.

 

The Buffalo Bills will be in the Windy City this weekend as they take the field for their final preseason game. Buffalo is set to take on the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field and most of the Bills starters, including quarterback Josh Allen, are reportedly going to play. Last week, Buffalo was defeated by the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-to-15. Kickoff tomorrow is scheduled for 1:00.

 

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

Lego is now selling Braille versions of its toy bricks. The toy maker said the release of the Braille bricks “marks a significant milestone in the development of more inclusive learning through play experiences.” The “LEGO Braille Bricks – Play with Braille” set will feature both Braille and printed letters, numbers and symbols on each brick. English and French versions of the set are now available to preorder on Lego’s website. The release comes ahead of World Blind Awareness Month in October.

 

The actress who played Alice Garvey on Little House on the Prairie has died. Hersha Parady died Wednesday in Norfolk, Virginia after a battle with a brain tumor. She was 78. Hersha Parady became a household name co-starred on the Emmy Award-winning show for four seasons, alongside Michael Landon, Melissa Gilbert, and Karen Grassle.

 

 

 

 

The Maui government is suing a utility company over its alleged negligence that caused recent deadly wildfires. A lawsuit filed Thursday claims Hawaiian Electric Company “inexcusably kept their power lines energized” earlier this month despite wind and fire warnings from forecasters. The National Weather Service cited that strong winds could knock down power lines and spark fires that would spread quickly due to dry conditions.

 

At least two school districts in eastern Kentucky canceled in-person classes this week after a rise in illnesses. Officials say it’s due to COVID, respiratory viruses and strep among students and staff at Lee County and Magoffin County schools. Both districts have seen drops in attendance since the start of the school year.

 

A suspect is in custody for allegedly leaving a possible exploding toilet outside a shopping mall near Los Angeles. Police say shoppers were evacuated from a mall in Glendale Thursday night after a suspicious toilet was left outside a movie theater, and that a note on the toilet suggested it could be a bomb. The Los Angeles County Bomb Squad was brought in and set up an X-ray machine to see inside the toilet, and determined it was empty. Police arrested a male suspect a short time later.

 

The Powerball jackpot for tomorrow night’s drawing will be at least $345 million. As is always the case, the drawing will be streamed live online at Powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

 

 

 

 

 

Today is Friday, August 25th, the 237th day of the year.

August 25 in history…

 

…In 1875, Captain Matthew Webb of Great Britain became the first person to swim the English Channel with no assistance.

 

 

 

 

…In 1900, German philosopher and poet Friedrich Nietzsche died at the age of 55. He became the youngest person ever to hold the Chair of Classical Philology at the University of Basel in 1869 at the age of 24.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1921, The United States signs a peace treaty with Germany.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1998, former child actor, Gary Coleman pleaded innocent to the charge that he hit a woman (Molly Shannon) in a mall after she had sought his autograph. Coleman was working at the mall as a security guard.

 

 

 

 

…In 2001, singer and actress Aaliyah was killed in a plane crash in the Bahamas at the age of 22. The small Cessna plane crashed a few minutes after take off, killing everyone on board with exception of four passengers who were pulled from the wreckage, but later died. Aaliyah had been filming a video for her latest release “Rock The Boat” on the island. The 22-year-old Aaliyah had just wrapped shooting the music video for her hit single “Rock the Boat,” and her team was eager to get back to the US.

The detailed background: Aaliyah — who was an anxious flyer — allegedly had reservations about boarding the aircraft after learning that it was overweight. The pilot had reportedly explained that the aircraft would be too cumbersome with eight passengers, including Aaliyah’s 300-pound bodyguard, as well as their bags and cameras.

The “Romeo Must Die” actress supposedly grew even more flustered when they arrived at the airport and spotted the small plane. Claiming she had a headache, the Brooklyn native fell asleep in the cab while her team sorted out the mess, according to Russell’s testimony.

A little while later Aaliyah reiterated her concerns. At this point, one of her team handed her a sleeping pill, causing her to fall into a deep sleep, after which Aaliyah became unconscious and was carried onto the plane.

Her worst fears were realized just after takeoff. The small, two-engine Cessna failed to gain altitude and crashed about 200 feet from the end of the runway, killing Aaliyah and all eight members of her entourage.

A subsequent autopsy revealed that Aaliyah had suffered extensive burns and severe head trauma, which had rendered her chances of survival minimal, at best.

It was later disclosed that the aircraft exceeded its allotted weight by several hundred pounds, the New York Times reported. In addition, the weight was improperly distributed, making the aircraft difficult to control while in the air. Meanwhile, the pilot had reportedly faked his license and was under the influence of alcohol and cocaine at the time of the accident.

 

 

Ellicott Station’s future is up in the air as the construction company, Savarino Companies, has announced a ceasing of operations.  City Manager Rachel Tabelski says that the company has not been in contact with the city since the announcement and the city has received calls from other developers and construction companies about continuing the work.  City officials plan to meet with staff from the New York State Office of Homes and Community Renewal in September, which has been in the works since the city learned about lower-than-expected income requirements at Ellicott Station.  First promised as market rate, then workforce housing, the apartment complex’s application surprised city officials earlier this year with low to very low-income levels, prompting them to reach out to HCR for assistance to see what could be done to raise those income levels to allow for workforce housing tenants.  Genesee County Economic Development Center CEO Steve Hyde said Wednesday that the agency is working to determine the next steps to be taken and that the agency had already found the company to be in default of its financial agreement.

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney announced Thursday that she is in support of creating a Space National Guard as a reserve for the Space Force.  Tenney is on the House Science, Space and Technology Committee.  She says that under the current system, individuals who serve as de facto Space Force reservists are part of the Air National Guard. This could prevent these individuals from participating in official Space Force educational and training opportunities and cause organizational issues. Importantly, creating a Space National Guard would require no additional personnel, units, or facilities and would improve communication, reduce costs, and allow these dedicated space warfighters to continue supporting the Space Force’s missions at a high level.

Buffalo police have confirmed that Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz has been named in a domestic incident report. The alleged incident between Poloncarz and a woman happened last Saturday at a home and the woman says she was pushed against a window after seeing Poloncarz’s text messages. Poloncarz has not been charged with a crime, and he’s characterizing what happened as a bad breakup. He also said that he didn’t hit the woman.

New York State’s Labor Department is launching a process to connect migrants with jobs. Governor Hochul says the latest effort will allow asylum seekers to immediately start working once they are granted legal work authorization. She also says this move will allow new arrivals to  move towards financial independence. Hochul has also sent a letter to the Biden Administration requesting the president take action to reduce the strain the migrant crisis has put on the state’s resources and facilities.  Hochul also called for expedited work authorization, federal financial support in several key areas, increased facilities and resources for shelters, and reimbursement for National Guard deployments to Erie and Monroe counties.  

The Buffalo Bills will be in the Windy City this weekend as they take the field for their final preseason game.  Buffalo is set to take on the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field and most of the Bills starters, including quarterback Josh Allen, are reportedly going to play. Last week, Buffalo was defeated by the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-to-15. Kickoff tomorrow is scheduled for 1 p.m.

The Muckdogs have agreed to a contract extension with current coach and manager Joey Martinez for the next 2 seasons.  Martinez took over in 2021 the first season CAN-USA Sports took over ownership of the Muckdogs.  Since taking over Martinez has led the dogs to the playoffs in 2 of his first 3 seasons.  The Muckdogs won the West Division in 2022 and fell just 1 game short of winning the PGCBL Championship that season.  The Muckdogs claimed the #1 seed in the regular season in both 2022 & 2023.  The Muckdogs will be hosting the Battle of the Badges this Saturday at 6pm at Dwyer Stadium, and will be hosting Muckdogs Trick or Treat on Saturday October 21st 3pm – 6pm.

A former recruit with the Greece Police Department is set to spend the next five years behind bars. Yesterday, a judge sentenced 28-year-old Jason Lane on child porn charges after he was found with hundreds of images in an email account and also on his cell phone. Some images were of students at Spencerport High School that Lane took while he was working as a security guard there, but the photos were not sexually explicit. Once he’s out of prison, Lane must register as a sex offender.

 

39-year-old Spencer Hart of Albion has been sentenced to serve 10 years in prison. He was convicted of possession of child pornography and has had previous, similar convictions that resulted from investigations dating back to 2018.

 

The legacy of a fallen Buffalo firefighter is going to be carried through a foundation that has been set up in his name. The Firefighter Arno Memorial Foundation is holding a sold-out event this Sunday at Holiday’s Sports Bar in West Seneca. Proceeds will go to help provide resources to first responders and also start a scholarship. Back in March, Jason Arno passed away while battling a massive blaze on Main Street. People who want to volunteer this weekend or make a donation can go to FAMgives.org.

 

 

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: It appears there could be another transition of some of the 573 asylum seekers in Erie County from a Cheektowaga hotel to Amherst. The Cheektowaga town supervisor stated that 226 of the migrants would be sent to a Red Roof Inn in Amherst and 48 children would be attending the Sweet Home Central School District. The Sweet Home School superintendent noted that any school-age child, who resides in their district, is considered a “Panther” and is “absolutely welcome.” Meanwhile… The number of asylum seekers who are staying in Monroe County is now up to 40. The migrants are being housed at the Holiday Inn on State Street in Rochester. DocGo, the company hired by New York City to help manage the asylum seeker crisis, sent migrants there Tuesday night. Roughly two weeks ago, over 70 migrants were brought to Rochester from the Big Apple.

 

Starting next Tuesday, August 29 Batavia will have a legal place to purchase marijuana. A partnership with DANK in downtown Buffalo and six other local marijuana growers and processors will result in a temporary pop-up shop inside of Empire Hemp Co. on E Main street in Batavia. The shop will showcase local cannabis growers and will be open every Tuesday thru Saturday from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. throughout the end of 2023. Despite applications, Empire Hemp Company does not have government approval to sell the legal adult use marijuana products that his company makes. Their THC Gummies, flowers, pre-rolled joints and more can only be sold to the few stores in the state like DANK that have a license to sell marijuana. Pop-up pot shops are a temporary solution.

 

The Buffalo Sabres are going to be holding an event this weekend to honor the life and legacy of longtime broadcaster Rick Jeanneret. He died last week at the age of 81 and called games for the NHL franchise from 1971 until 2022. A roundtable discussion is set for 5 p.m. on Sunday at KeyBank Center that’s both free and open to the public. Seats are available through Ticketmaster.

ELSEWHERE…

 

A western Minnesota teen is getting high praise after making an unusual catch. Fourteen-year-old Connor Halsa was fishing at the lake during his family’s summer vacation in the northern part of the state when he managed to reel in a wallet containing two-thousand dollars. The family found a business card inside the wallet and called the number, which eventually led them to Iowa farmer Jim Denney. Denney lost the wallet in the lake a year earlier and thought he would never see it again. Connor turned down a cash reward, but Denney did talk the teen into accepting dinner and the gift of a personalized cooler. Denney also said he’d be proud to have Connor as a grandson and “would fight for him any day.”

 

Supermarket chain Wegmans has announced it will discontinue production of its brand of sodas called WPOP. That’s because the drinks have aspartame and high fructose corn syrup, which are ingredients that don’t meet the requirements of the company’s “Food You Feel Good About” initiative. Wegmans says it’s committed to helping customers live healthier lives through food. The sodas are still on store shelves for now, but are expected to be sold out within the next week.

 

Police in Florida are warning residents north of Orlando to watch out for a monkey on the loose. The Orange City Police Department says they received several calls Wednesday about a rhesus macaque running wild through residential neighborhoods, and have notified state wildlife officials. Officials are telling people not to feed the monkey.

 

A new study says local trees provide a strong defense against invasive species. Published in the journal Science, findings show that invasive tree species have a harder time thriving in rich local ecosystems. Researchers say that the invaders tend to enter new landscapes from nearby human settlements, coastal and riverine ports especially. But “native biodiversity can limit the severity or intensity of non-native tree species invasions worldwide.” (file photo)

Today is Thursday, August 24th, the 236th day of the year.

August 24 in history…

…In 1814, during the War of 1812 between the United States and England, British troops entered Washington D.C. and burned many public buildings down including the White House.

 

 

 

…In 1853, Chef George Speck Crum introduced the first potato chips while working as a cook at Moon’s Lake House on Saratoga Lake, Saratoga Springs.

 

 

 

 

…In 1891, Thomas Edison applied for a patent for the motion picture camera.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1946, Norma Jean Baker signed a contract with 20th Century Fox. She later changed her name to Marilyn Monroe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1963, the Little League World Series was covered for the first time by ABC’s “Wide World of Sports.” Pictured is the Granada Hills team – they defeated a team from Stratford, Connecticut, 2-1, to capture the 1963 Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

 

 

 

…In 1979, “The Facts Of Life” made its debut on NBC. The TV comedy lasted ten seasons, making it one of the longest-running sitcoms of the 80’s.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1981, Mark David Chapman was sentenced to 20-years-to-life in prison for the murder of former Beatle, John Lennon.

 

 

 

 

…In 1995, Microsoft released Windows 95, and purchased the rights to the Rolling Stones’ “Start Me Up” for a reported $12 million.

 

 

 

…In 2006, NFL star Jerry Rice officially retired as a San Francisco 49er, the team where his NFL career began, signing a one-day contract for almost $2 million.

 

 

 

…In 2015, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerburg announced one billion people had logged onto the social media site for the first time.

 

Rochester Police are investigating a homicide on the city’s west side Wednesday night.  Officers responded to the mini-mart at 1218 Jay Street for the report of a fight inside the store.  A man believed to be between the age of 50 and 60 was found dead inside the shop, according to RPD.  Investigators determined the victim was assaulted by an unknown suspect outside the store, and the incident continued inside, where the victim was killed.  The exact cause of death is under investigation, and police did not say whether there’s been any arrests in the case.

It appears there could be another transition of some of the 573 asylum seekers in Erie County from a Cheektowaga hotel to Amherst.  The Cheektowaga town supervisor Diane Benczkowski said during a public meeting Tuesday night that Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz told her the Dingens Street hotel would be closing. That is where some of the more than 500 asylum seekers are being housed in Cheektowaga.  The Cheektowaga town supervisor specifically stated that 226 of the migrants would be sent to a Red Roof in Amherst and 48 children would be attending the Sweet Home Central School District.  The Sweet Home School superintendent issued a short statement simply saying that any school-age child, who resides in this district, is considered a “Panther” and is “absolutely welcome.”

Starting Tuesday, August 29 Batavia will have a legal place to purchase marijuana.  A partnership with DANK in downtown Buffalo and six other local marijuana growers and processors will result in a temporary pop-up shop inside of Empire Hemp Co. on E Main street in Batavia.  The pop-up shop will showcase local cannabis growers and will be open every Tuesday thru Saturday from 1:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. throughout the end of 2023.  Despite applications, Chris VanDusen’s CBD store, Empire Hemp Co., does not have government approval to sell the legal adult use marijuana products that his company makes.  Their THC Gummies, flowers, pre-rolled joints and more can only be sold to the few stores in the state like DANK that have a license to sell marijuana.  These pop up pot shops are a temporary solution.

Legendary Buffalo Sabres play-by-play announcer Rick Jeanneret passed away on August 17 at the age of 81.  The Sabres will honor Jeanneret’s life and career with a special tribute event “Remembering RJ: The Man Behind the Mic” on Sunday at the KeyBank Center. It will feature roundtable conversations with broadcasters and alumni. Doors will open at 3:30 p.m. and the event will begin at 5 p.m.  General admission tickets are free to the public and available online at the keybank center ticketmaster website on a first-come, first-served basis. The Sabres said the event will also air on MSG and stream live on Sabres.com and the team’s official social platforms.  According to the Sabres, out of respect for Jeanneret and his family’s wishes, a full memorial service will not be held. In addition, the RJ display located in Alumni Plaza will remain in place through the weekend.

The Old Bethany Town Hall, the iconic white building sitting on Rt 15 with its bell tower and proud name displayed on the front, is no more.  It was decided that 2 million dollars to bring the building up to code was too much for the town to bear.  The Town Hall building was demolished Tuesday but the bell was preserved.  Crews cut the top of the tower off and a crane lifted the bell and substructure out cleanly and securely.  The project cost 119000 dollars.  You can view pictures and video of the demolition on our news partner The Batavian’s site.

A popular Wegmans-brand item will be coming off the shelves soon.  The company announced it’s discontinuing its brand soda, also known as “WPOP,” because of concerns over artificial ingredients in the products.  The ingredients they say don’t fit with they’re brand are aspartame and high fructose corn syrup as well as colors and preservatives.  In a statement released Wednesday, Wegmans said the soda fails to meet the requirements of its “Our Food You Feel Good About” banner, adding it will remain committed to “helping customers live healthier, better lives.”  WPOP has been sold in Wegmans stores since the 1990s.

Early this morning, the City of Batavia Fire Department responded to a report of smoke in the area of Masse Place and East Main Street. As crews searched for the source, City Police discovered a residential structure on fire at 18 Colorado Avenue. Fire was showing from the front of the home. There was no one home at the time and crews were able to extinguish the fire; however, significant damage was noted to the majority of the structure with remaining portions of the home suffering smoke and water damage. No injuries were reported; however, one cat perished in the blaze. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the City of Batavia Fire Department.

 

The Genesee County Highway Department tell us that Lewiston Road between Route 63 and Knowlesville Road in Alabama will be closed to all traffic beginning next Monday. A culvert replacement project is expected to last about 8 weeks. The new culvert pipe will improve water flow under Lewiston Road and ensure the long-term sustainability of the roadway.

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: A media tour scheduled for today at the new Batavia Medical Center has been canceled, along with the grand opening of the Batavia-based facility set for Monday. Rochester Regional Health was waiting for a final letter from New York State signing off on the project, but that letter has not yet arrived. A new opening date has not been determined but will likely be sometime in mid-September.

 

Governor Hochul has announced that $20 million in grant funding is going to the Erie County Water Authority. The money will be used for things such as infrastructure upgrades. That includes updating water filters that treat millions of gallons of water from Lake Erie on a daily basis. Funds will also help the Water Authority provide its customers with safe and affordable water service for years to come.

 

Results from a recently conducted poll shows that a majority of Empire State residents are concerned about the recent influx of migrants. When asked by Siena College if they believe this influx is a serious problem, 82% of respondents said yes, while 54% said it was very serious. Also, 46% of people surveyed said migrants who have resettled in the state in recent years have been a burden instead of a benefit. And, 51% disapprove of the job Governor Hochul is doing to address this influx.

 

A jury has convicted a Greece woman charged with killing her husband. Yesterday, 68-year-old Skavon Andrews was found guilty of criminally negligent homicide for the shooting death of 72-year-old Rawleigh Andrews in their driveway on Vintage Lane last year. Andrews was also facing murder and manslaughter charges, but she wasn’t convicted. She’s facing up to four years in prison when she’s sentenced next month.

 

Micah Hyde of the Buffalo Bills is teaming up with the Buffalo Bisons for a unique promotion. Mystery Ball Night is scheduled for August 29th when the Bisons take on the Indianapolis Indians at Sahlen Field. There will be 500 autographed balls available for purchase, but fans won’t know what signature they’ve received until the ball is unwrapped. A few potential autographs include Josh Allen, Jordan Poyer and Matt Milano. Tickets to the game are available online.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

The hit sitcom “Frasier” is set for its return. A revival of the series will debut on October 12th with the first two episodes on Paramount-Plus. The new season will consist of ten episodes. Kelsey Grammer returns as Frasier Crane and the rest of the cast includes Jack Cutmore-Scott, Nicholas Lyndhurst and Bebe Neuwirth will guest star in one episode, returning as Dr. Lilith Sternin. The original “Frasier” series ran from 1993 to 2004. Everybody sing along:

 

 

At least one child is dead after a school bus crash in Ohio this morning on the first day of classes. The Ohio State Highway Patrol said it happened on State Route 41 just outside Dayton. Apparently a small SUV went into the path of the bus, and one child was ejected from the bus.

 

 

 

Oscar Mayer is marking the one-year anniversary of a viral video of a baseball fan using a hot dog as a straw. The famous hot dog maker is giving away free hot dog straws on its website to celebrate the occasion. The TikTok video of the baseball fan at a Yankee game using an Oscar Mayer hot dog to drink his beer has racked up over nine billion views. Oscar Mayer’s giveaway version is made from a food safe soft silicone that mimics the look and feel of a cooked hot dog.

 

Major studios are offering a new deal to Hollywood writers in hopes of ending a nearly four-month-old strike. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers is proposing new terms to the Writers Guild of America that include a wage increase, plus some residual pay and a guarantee that material produced by A-I will not be considered literary material.

 

After months of anticipation, the 2023 New York State Fair is officially kicking off in Syracuse today. People will have the chance to get on rides, taste great food, check out the popular butter sculpture, and listen to live music during the fair, which runs through September 4th. Admission is six dollars for adults but kids 12 and under and people 65 and older get in for free. To check out the full list of events, go to nysfair.ny.gov.

 

The Powerball jackpot is on the rise once again and has now surpassed the $300 million. The prize for whoever correctly picks all six winning numbers for tonight’s drawing will be at least $313 million. However, the odds of hitting the jackpot are one in over 292 million. The drawing can be streamed live at Powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

 

Today is Wednesday, August 23rd, the 235th day of the year.

August 23 in history…

 

…In 1926, actor Rudolph Valentino died at the age of 31. Nicknamed “The Latin Lover,” he was Hollywood’s first male sex symbol. Valentino had been preparing for the release of a movie on August 15, 1926, when he collapsed and was rushed to the hospital. He underwent surgery for appendicitis and perforated ulcers. After the surgery, Valentino developed peritonitis, which was the cause of his death.

 

 

…In 1962, John Lennon married Cynthia Powell. They divorced 6 years later.

 

 

 

 

…In 1963, The Beatles released their single “She Loves you” in the U.K.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1973, John Lennon swore he spotted a UFO. In the lower left-hand corner of the sleeve of “Walls and Bridges,” which was released a month later, he wrote: “On the 23rd August 1974 at nine o’clock I saw a U.F.O.” and it bore the initials “J-L.” And in the posthumously released “Nobody Told Me,” he sings, “There’s U.F.O.s over New York / And I ain’t too surprised.”

 

 

 

…In 1989, Pete Rose was banned from baseball for life after he was caught gambling on baseball games. Rose signed an agreement with the commissioner of baseball, accepting the lifetime penalty without admitting to betting on baseball.

 

 

 

 

…In 1995, “Life” magazine photographer Alfred Eisenstaedt died. He is best remembered for his photo of a sailor kissing a nurse in New York’s Times Square, showing America’s joy at Japan’s surrender in World War Two.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 2000, Richard Hatch became the first winner of the CBS’ hit reality game show challenge “Survivor.” Hatch won the grand prize of $1 million, outlasting 15 other contestants to be crowned the “Sole Survivor.” He was convicted with three counts related to attempted tax evasion and fraudulent tax return in January 2006. He served fifty-one months in prison and then, after failing to amend his 2000 and 2001 tax returns, an additional nine months in prison.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What will happen to Ellicott Station now?  That is the question after Savarino Companies announced that they will be “winding down and ceasing operations.”  Savarino said that the company would be laying off 30 employees after being unable to overcome significant financial losses following its dismissal from a state-funded SUNY construction project, the article states.  City Manager Rachael Tabelski said that the city had not been contacted by Savarino Companies before the announcement and is, therefore “reviewing and evaluating all information as it comes forward.”  In an email sent to our news partner The Batavian, the company stated “The status of several initiatives and development projects that Savarino Companies was affiliated with has yet to be determined.”

Rochester police are investigating a crash involving a mini bike and a vehicle.  Officers say around 9:15 p.m. on Tuesday, a mini bike being operated without headlights, struck a vehicle that was making a legal turn onto Conkey Avenue at Norton Street.  The operator of the mini bike, a 21-year-old Rochester man, was taken to the hospital with a possible broken leg.  His passenger, an 11-year-old boy from Rochester, was also taken to the hospital with what are said to be minor cuts and scrapes.  The driver of the vehicle was not injured.  At this time, police say it’s expected the operator of the mini bike will be issued traffic citations along with possible additional criminal charges.

A brand-new poll shows that a majority of Empire State residents are concerned about the recent influx of migrants. When asked by Siena College if they believe this influx is a serious problem, 82-percent of respondents said yes, while 54-percent said it was very serious. Also, 46-percent of people surveyed said migrants who have resettled in the state in recent years have been a burden and not a benefit.  And, 51-percent disapprove of the job Governor Hochul is doing to address this influx.

After months of anticipation, the 2023 New York State Fair is officially kicking off in Syracuse today. People will have the chance to get on rides, taste great food, check out the popular butter sculpture, and listen to live music during the fair which runs through September 4th. Admission is six dollars for adults but kids 12 and under and people 65 and older get in for free. To check out the full list of events, go to nysfair.ny.gov.

A media tour scheduled for Wednesday morning at the new Batavia Medical Center has been canceled, along with the grand opening of the Batavia-based facility set for Monday, Rochester Regional Health officials said.  RRH was waiting for a final letter from New York State signing off on the project, but that letter has not yet arrived. A new opening date has not been determined but will likely be sometime in mid-September, spokesperson Cristina Domingues Umbrino said Tuesday.  The health facility hosted a small tour for dignitaries at the new 95,000 square-foot site on Oak Orchard Road last Friday, with the plan to open it up to media this week in anticipation of an opening slated for Aug. 28.

Batavia Downs has announced the dates and times for several Fall events.  On Friday, September 22nd, the Ricky Palermo Foundation Comedy Night will be held inside Park Place.  Attendees will receive admission to a night of comedy, a free drink, buffet dinner and $25 in Free Play.  Tickets can be purchased at rickypalermofoundation.org.  Monday, September 25th will be Batavia Downs’ Oktoberfest featuring music from Fritz’s Polka Band.  This free event will run noon to 3pm.  The Homestretch Grill doors will be open and several polish food specials will be available.  On Saturday, September 30th, the 3rd annual Vodka & Gin Fest, presented by Deep Eddy Vodka and Ford’s Gin will take place from 4 to 6:30pm.  For $40, attendees will have access to vodka and gin sampling as well as grazing stations and receive $25 in free play as well as a free program and $5 wager on that evening’s races at Batavia Downs.  And the famous Family Fun Day & Wiener Dog Races will take place on Sunday, October 15th.  Family related activities will also take place including on site entertainers, kettle corn stand, pumpkin decorating for kids 15 and under, carriage rides, and pony rides will take place from 12 till 2pm with the wiener dog races commencing at 2pm.

BATAVIA CITY POLICE BLOTTER:

1. On 8/9/2023, Sean M Conway (age 46) of Pembroke, was arrested for Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd and Uninspected Motor Vehicle. Conway was arrested after a traffic stop on Washington Ave, where he was found to be in possession of an expandable baton. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released. He is due in Batavia City Court, on 9/7/2023.
2. On 8/16/2023, Brian M Raphael (age 35) of Batavia, was arrested for Trespassing. Raphael was located inside Aldi, on East Main St, after previously being trespassed from the store, due to prior shoplifting incidents. He was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in court on 8/29/2023.
3. On 8/16/2023, Crystal M Bouter (age 34) of Batavia, was arrested on an arrest warrant from Batavia City Court. Bouter was initially arrested on 7/6/2023 and charged with Criminal Mischief 4th, after allegedly damaging another person’s cellphone. She was issued an appearance ticket. A warrant was issued, after she failed to appear in court. Bouter was located on 8/16, while Officers were investigating a separate incident. Bouter was arraigned in CAP Court and is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court at a later date.
4. On 8/16/2023, Kyle J Stack was arrested for Criminal Trespass 3rd and Failure to Keep Right (Bicycle). Stack was arrested after Officers attempted to stop him for riding a bicycle southbound in the northbound lane, on South Spruce St. Stack allegedly fled on foot, but was located a short distance away in a back yard. He was issued appearance tickets and is scheduled to appear in court, on 8/22/2023.
5. On 8/9/2023, Ashton L Mohney (age 33) of Batavia, was arrested for Assault 3rd and Criminal Obstruction of Breathing. Officers were called to an address on Ross St, for the report of a physical disturbance. It’s alleged that Mohney grabbed the victim by the neck and punched her in the head. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released. He is due back in court on 9/7/2023.
6. On 8/16/2023, Ricky L Miller (age 41) of Batavia, was arrested on an arrest warrant from Batavia City Court. Miller was initially arrested for Petit Larceny on 5/24/2023, after allegedly stealing merchandise from Tops. He was issued an appearance ticket. A warrant was issued, after he failed to appear in court. Miller was arraigned on the warrant in Batavia City Court and released. He is due back in court on 9/13/2023.
7. On 8/16/2023, Frank R Cratsenberg (age 63) was arrested on an arrest warrant from Batavia City Court. Cratsenberg was arrested on 6/7/2023, after allegedly stealing merchandise from Kwik Fill, on Jackson St. He was issued an appearance ticket. A warrant was issued on 7/18/2023, after he failed to appear in court. Cratsenberg was arraigned on the warrant in Batavia City Court. He was released and is due back in court on 9/13/2023.
8. On 8/16/2023, Ryan M Arner (age 37) of Batavia, was arrested for Harassment 2nd. Arner was charged after an investigation into a fight that occurred at an address on State St on 8/15/2023. It’s alleged that Arner pushed and headbutted another person. Arner was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court, on 8/29/2023.
9. On 8/14/2023, Aaron R Hatfield (age 38) of Lockport, was arrested for Petit Larceny and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Hatfield is accused of stealing merchandise from Tops. During his arrest, Hatfield was allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court, on 8/29/2023.
10. On 8/14/2023, Myron D Dupler (age 76) of Batavia, was arrested for Public Lewdness. It’s alleged that Dupler exposed himself, while in the area of Austin Park. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court, on 8/29/2023.
11. On 8/13/2023, Kelli E Wallace (age 60) of Batavia, was arrested for Petit Larceny. It’s alleged that Wallace stole merchandise from Tops. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court, on 9/5/2023.
12. On 8/11/2023, James L Brown (age 40) of Albion, was arrested for Petit Larceny. Brown was charged after allegedly stealing merchandise from 7 Eleven. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court, on 8/29/2023.
13. On 8/8/2023, Paul Lee (age 51) of Rochester, was arrested for Criminal Trespass 3rd. Lee was arrested after he was allegedly found sleeping in a vacant house on Ellicott St. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court, on 8/29/2023.
14. On 8/11/2023, Joanna F Larnder (age 30) of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant, from Batavia City Court. Larnder was initially charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3rd on 3/22/2023, after a traffic stop on Margaret Pl. She allegedly failed to appear in court and a warrant was issued, on 5/18/2023. Larnder was arraigned in CAP Court and is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court, at a later date.
15. On 8/12/2023, Joshua J Brower (age 39) of Medina, was arrested for DWI. Brower was arrested after a traffic stop on West Main St, where he was allegedly found to be intoxicated. He was issued traffic tickets and is due in Batavia City Court, on 8/30/2023.
16. On 8/12/2023, Fawn M Mobley (age 51) of Oakfield, was arrested for DWI. Mobley was arrested after Officers located a vehicle driving on West Main St, with a flat tire. After an investigation, it was found that Mobley was allegedly operating the vehicle while intoxicated. She was issued traffic tickets and is due in Batavia City Court, on 8/30/2023.
17. On 8/7/2023, Andrew T Williams (age 20) of Jamestown, was arrested on an arrest warrant, from Batavia City Court. Williams was initially charged on 4/22/2023, with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3rd and Operating with a Suspended Registration, after a traffic stop on Cedar St. A warrant was issued, after he allegedly failed to appear in court. Williams was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released. He is due back in court, on 8/30/2023.

—

Dozens of asylum seekers who had been forced from staying at Buffalo State University now have a place to live. University officials announced late Monday that Jericho Road had told the university it had found housing for 44 asylum seekers who had been forced from their housing on the university’s campus. University leaders say they were hoping for such a result because they could no longer offer the housing since it was needed for students. Some of those seeking asylum have been in Western New York for over a year.

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office with the help of Niagara County Sheriff’s Air 1 helicopter, has located a missing woman on Carton Road in the Town of Murray. 67-year-old Linda Donovan went missing about 12:30p.m. on Monday, and was last seen in a wooded area with her boyfriend who said she wandered off and couldn’t be located. Donovan was found by Niagara County Sheriff’s Air-1 helicopter walking in a swampy area about 4:30p.m., according to Sheriff Christopher Bourke. Donovan was transported out of the area to the roadway by deputies, Murray Joint Fire EMS and Monroe Ambulance for evaluation.

 

Authorities are investigating a crash on Rt 20 Monday. The Pavilion Fire Department said a dump truck was heading south on South Street Road in Pavilion, when the driver failed to stop at a stop sign and crashed into a tractor trailer traveling east on State Route 20. Crews said the driver of the tractor-trailer was taken to the hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries. The dump truck driver suffered minor injuries and did not receive any treatment. Over 100 gallons of diesel fuel spilled from the fuel tanks of both vehicles, but the spill was contained, and there is no threat to the area’s water supply. State police are investigating the crash.

 

There has only one been day over 90 degrees in all of July and August so far. July 6th hit 91 degrees and was the only day labeled as “hot” by meteorologists. The south and Midwest hit record highs this year but cold fronts and rains kept New York from getting the same treatment. Most likely we won’t be seeing above 80 for the rest of the summer.

 

 

After weeks of increases, regional drivers are finally seeing consistent prices at the gas pump. According to Triple A this morning, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.85. The state average is $3.92. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.85; that’s the same as it was yesterday. The cost is down 2 cents from a week ago but up 26 cents from a month ago today.

 

The Buffalo Bill are trying to address their offensive line depth issue. The Bills announced Monday they were bringing back Garrett McGhin to play on the offensive line. The 300-pounder has had two previous short stints with the Bills and played earlier this year in the XFL. His signing comes after backup offensive tackle Tommy Doyle suffered a season-ending knee injury during a pre-season game last weekend, leaving the Bills already-thin offensive line even thinner.

 

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Stefon Diggs is refuting a claim made by an ESPN employee that he wants to leave the team. Stephen A. Smith said that he has sources telling him that Diggs wants out of Buffalo because he has lost a level of belief in the franchise. But Diggs fired back, saying that is 100-percent not true and he doesn’t know who Smith’s source is. Last season, Diggs had more than 14-hundred yards receiving and 11 touchdowns.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

Following a two-year hiatus, Western New York Beer Week going to return next month. The event, which is hosted by the Western New York Brewers Guild, is set to go from September 23rd through the 30th. The celebration will feature dozens of breweries and taprooms from around the area and support an industry that employs roughly 1,000 people in the region. For more information, go to wnybrewersguild.com.

 

More than 3,000 movie theaters across the country will offer discounted tickets this Sunday. In honor of National Cinema Day, all movies in all formats will cost less than four-dollars. That even includes “Oppenheimer” in Imax if showtimes aren’t already sold out. This marks the second-annual National Cinema Day, hosted by the Cinema Foundation. Last year’s event was the most-attended day at the movies in 2022. (Photo credit: cinematreasures.org)

 

The original voice actor for Nintendo’s Mario character is moving on to a new role. The video game company says Charles Martinet will now serve as its Mario Ambassador as he steps back from playing the famous plumber. Martinet first began voicing Mario in 1991 and made his debut video game appearance in 1994’s Mario Teaches Typing. Most video game fans came to know his voice thanks to 1996’s Super Mario 64. Martinet made a brief cameo in this year’s “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” while Chris Pratt voiced Mario.

 

 

 

The Ohio teen guilty of deliberately crashing her car to kill her boyfriend will spend 15 years-to-life in prison. Last week, a judge found 19-year-old Mackenzie Shirilla guilty of killing her 20-year-old boyfriend and a 19-year-old male passenger by smashing her car into a brick wall in 2022. Cleveland prosecutors said the crash at 100-miles-per-hour was no accident, and the judge agreed, calling her actions “hell on wheels.” Shirilla was 17 at the time of the crash. Pictured at the left was her boyfriend, Dominic Russo and to the right, her friend Davian Flanagan.

 

The FDA has approved a vaccine that is given to pregnant women in order to protect newborn babies from RSV. Abrysvo, a single-dose shot, would be given to expectant mothers late in their pregnancy and trigger the development of antibodies that are passed on to the fetus. It would then provide protection for about the first six months of the baby’s life.

 

Today is Tuesday, August 22nd, the 234th day of the year.

 

August 22 in history…

 

… In 1762, Ann Franklin became the first female editor of an American newspaper. She became the editor of the Mercury of Newport out of Rhode Island.

 

 

 

…In 1776, British forces landed on Long Island, New York. The troops were under the command of General William Howe.

 

 

 

 

…In 1865, a patient for liquid soap was issued to William Sheppard.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1902, the Cadillac automobile company was founded.

 

 

 

 

…Also in 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt became the first President to ride in an automobile.

 

 

 

 

…In 1950, Althea Gibson became the first African-American to compete in the U.S. Tennis Tour.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1969, The Beatles gathered at John Lennon’s home Tittenhurst Park for a photo shoot for the “Hey Jude” album cover.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1984, the last Volkswagen Rabbit rolled off the assembly line.

 

 

 

 

…In 1994, a single drop of blood yielded a one-in-a-million genetic “fingerprint” linking O.J. Simpson to the murder of Nicole Simpson and Ron Goldman. That drop and another sample recovered from the place where Simpson’s ex-wife and Goldman were murdered share the same genetic makeup as the football legend’s blood.

 

Rochester Police are investigating an apparent drive-by double shooting in the city’s downtown area in broad daylight Monday afternoon.  Rochester police said around 1 p.m., an unknown number of suspects fired several rounds from a vehicle in front of the corner store at 72 St. Paul Street, near the RTS transit center. Two people seemingly uninvolved in the incident were struck by the gunfire, officers said.  One of the victims, a 44-year-old man, is being treated for life-threatening injuries. The other, a 32-year-old man, is expected to survive, police said.  Officers began to pursue the vehicle involved in the shooting, before one of the occupants jumped out and fled on foot in the city’s northwest area. Eventually, one person was detained and remains in custody as police continue to investigate.  This incident comes less than 24 hours after a 14-year-old boy was shot at the same address on St. Paul Street.  The City of Rochester is closing that corner store until further notice, claiming the location is a “significant contributing factor” to problems being experienced in the neighborhood.

Police are investigating four burglaries in Rochester early in the morning Monday. Skip’s On The Ridge and Donuts Delite on West Ridge Road were both hit just before 2:30 a.m.  The owners at each location said there was damage and property was taken. Donuts Delite’s owner said two registers were taken.  Alan Depasquale, the owner of Skip’s, called the burglary “annoying and disappointing.” He estimated around $150 worth of products were stolen, and anticipates spending between $500 and $1,000 to repair the front door.  Meanwhile, just about 15 minutes prior, the Irondequoit Police Department said the Subway and Cricket store on East Ridge Road were broken into around 2:15 a.m. Nothing was taken from the Subway, but a cash register was taken from the Cricket Wireless store, officers said.  Irondequoit police said the same suspect was involved in both incidents.

The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office with the help of Niagara County Sheriff’s Air 1 helicopter, has located a missing woman on Carton Road in the Town of Murray. 67 Linda Donovan went missing about 12:30p.m. on Monday, and was last seen in a wooded area with her boyfriend who said she wandered off and couldn’t be located.  Donovan was found by Niagara County Sheriff’s Air-1 helicopter walking in a swampy area about 4:30p.m., according to Sheriff Christopher Bourke.  Donovan was transported out of the area to the roadway by deputies, Murray Joint Fire EMS and Monroe Ambulance for evaluation.

Authorities are investigating a crash on Rt 20 Monday.  The Pavilion Fire Department said a dump truck was heading south on South Street Road in Pavilion, when it blew through a stop sign and crashed into a tractor trailer traveling east on State Route 20.  Crews said the driver of the tractor trailer was taken to the hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries. The dump truck driver suffered minor injuries and did not receive any treatment.  Over 100 gallons of diesel fuel spilled from the fuel tanks of both vehicles, but the spill was contained, and there is no threat to the area’s water supply.  State police are investigating the crash.

In May and June everyone was talking about it being the hottest summer on record and how the Northeast was going to be sweltering all season.  Well, there was only one day over 90 degrees in all of July and August so far.  July 6th hit 91 degrees and was the only day labeled as “hot” by meteorologists.  The south and midwest hit record highs this year but cold fronts and rains kept New York from getting the same treatment.  Most likely we won’t be seeing above 80 for the rest of the Summer.

Gas prices seem to be stabilizing a little south of 4 dollars according to AAA.  Monday the average price of a gallon of regular in Batavia was 3.85 which is down 2 cents from a week ago and up 26 cents from last month.  The average in New York was 3.92 and the national average is also 3.85.  High temperatures in Texas and the hurricane season may drive prices up as we head towards September but fewer people on the road will keep it from jumping too much.

 

A Batavia man could be facing additional charges for a drunk driving crash that sent two people to the hospital. Sheriff’s officials say 22-year-old Owen Scouten was behind the wheel of a vehicle that crashed off Lewiston Road Sunday. Two people inside the vehicle ended up in the hospital and investigators say charges could be added against Scouten depending on injuries to the victims. Scouten has already been charged with DWI and speeding.

 

33-year-old Joseph Kostanciak of Pembroke has been arrested. He’s charged with endangering the welfare of a child. It’s alleged that Kostanciak possessed drug paraphernalia, including an uncapped needle, which was accessible to children under the age of 17. He was held for CAP Court arraignment. The same incident resulted in similar charges against 46-year-old Shannon Smith of Pembroke. She was also held for CAP Court arraignment.

 

A Buffalo City Court judge has sentenced a woman to 100 hours of community service. 33-year-old Shamika Dean pleaded guilty to misdemeanor criminal possession of stolen property. She was caught wearing items stolen during the Christmas blizzard last year valued at about $1000. A portion of the community service must be done in the neighborhood of the store that was looted.

 

 

Faculty members of a university in Buffalo plan to picket the school’s opening day plans over contract issues. Faculty at D’Youville University are scheduled to picket the school’s opening assembly tomorrow. They say they’ve gone over two years without a new contract. Union members say they also don’t trust President Lorrie Clemo, whose tenure has involved multiple layoffs and a vote of no confidence by the faculty. The university is dismissing the union’s comments and say it’s the union that won’t come to the bargaining table.

 

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: The new Rochester Regional Health building across I90 is ready to receive patients. Although the official opening date is the 26th, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Friday and several officials received tours of the new facility. Many of the medical offices and services offered by United Memorial Medical Center and RRH at St. Jerome’s and other medical buildings are moving into the new medical campus, making it more of a one-stop shop for area residents receiving out-patient medical care. RRH invested nearly $45 million in the 95,000-square-foot facility. Hospital officials describe the facility as “centrally located right off the Thruway, in a convenient place both for local residents and those coming from around the region. There will be more than a dozen specialty services all under one roof, including primary care, pediatrics, orthopedics, otolaryngology, plastic surgery, vascular surgery, neurosciences and Sands-Constellation Heart Institute cardiologists. Also included is a 7 day Urgent care and lab services.

 

A 14-year-old teen is in the hospital after being shot in Rochester. Police say they were called to a section on St. Paul Street Sunday night and found the boy with a gunshot wound to his lower body. He was taken to a hospital and is expected to survive. No arrests have been made. What led up to the gunfire remains unclear.

 

 

Nearly four-dozen asylum seekers will be evicted from the Buffalo State University campus today. According to a statement from Jericho Road, the 44 migrants had been living at the school since May as part of a “temporary housing solution.” Jericho Road CEO Doctor Myron Glick said the decision by the university “was influenced by prejudice.” Buffalo State said they are attempting to work with Jericho Road to find more permanent housing. Meanwhile, The agency contracted by New York City to help with asylum seekers says there are no plans to send more migrants to Erie County. According to DocGo, an organization that shifted from COVID vaccines and testing to assist in the asylum seekers crisis, more than 100,000 migrants have come to New York City, and roughly 500 were sent to Erie County. DocGo is under investigation by the State of New York for not meeting the health care needs of the migrants.

 

31 counties in New York State, including the GLOW region, has been designated as a primary natural disaster area following the late May frost and freeze. This means that impacted farmers may be eligible for assistance, including emergency loans. Many of them hadn’t seen frost conditions this late in the season in decades.

 

 

The star power of Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs was not enough for a Buffalo Bills win on Saturday. The Bills fell behind 14-to-0 in the first quarter of the preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers and were out-gained 139 to 36 yards. Coach Sean McDermott says they were out-coached and out-played, ultimately losing 27-to-15. He also added that multiple penalties and flags against them did not help.

 

The Buffalo Bills’ offensive line depth is being tested. Bills backup offensive tackle Tommy Doyle suffered a season-ending injury to one of his legs in the Bills recent pre-season game against the Steelers. Doyle was in his third year with the team. His injury leaves the Bills with just one backup tackle on the roster with NFL experience. Head Coach Sean McDermott says the team may look to bring someone in to replace Doyle.

 

 

One Cheektowaga couple might just be the Buffalo Bills’ biggest fans. Jennifer and Eddie Mendez decided to remodel their basement 10 months ago, and now it’s nothing short of a shrine for all their Bills memorabilia. There are over 60 items on display from ceiling to floor, including footballs, a pylon, and signed jerseys

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

Fox News is getting rid of the doorbell sound it used to use during debates when a speaker’s time is up. This comes just before the first Republican primary debate in Milwaukee and reportedly spurred on because of complaints from dog owners who said it bothered their pets. Fox confirmed the change to The Hill last week.

 

 

The heir to the Anheuser-Busch company is offering to buy back his family’s old company from its parent company if they’re looking to sell it. Billy Busch, whose family sold Anheuser-Busch to Brazilian based InBev in 2008, declared he would be the “first in line” to buy back the company and “make that brand great again.” Busch made the comments last week while speaking with conservative show host, Tomi Lahren. The comments come almost five months after Anheuser-Busch endured a major boycott for making trans woman Dylan Mulvaney one of Bud Light’s spokespeople. In the time since Anheuser-Busch’s marketing blunder, the company has lost billions in revenue, seen its market value plummet and become a topic of mockery for many of its former consumer base.

 

Bots are apparently better at solving CAPTCHA tests than humans. The puzzles that require a person to pick certain images before accessing a website are supposedly a method to prove a user is really a human. A study out of the University of California Irvine pitted people against bots specifically programmed to solve CAPTCHA tests and it turns out, the bots came out on top.

 

Elon Musk says X users will no longer be able to block accounts except for in private messages. The owner of the social media platform formerly called Twitter posted over the weekend that he was eliminating the safety feature. He did not give a reason but did note that the “mute” function will continue to be available.

 

 

 

Today is Monday, August 21st, the 233rd day of the year.

August 21 in history…

 

…In 1831, former slave Nat Turner led an insurrection against slavery in Virginia.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1911, Leonardo Da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” was stolen from The Louvre Museum in Paris, France. It was recovered two years later.

 

 

 

 

…In 1959, Hawaii became the 50th state of the Union.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1987, the film, “Dirty Dancing,” opened across America.

 

 

 

 

…In 1993, NASA lost contact with the Mars Observer spacecraft. The mission cost $980 million.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 2017, Johnson & Johnson had to pay $417 million after a woman, Eva Echevarria, claimed that the talc in the company’s baby powder caused ovarian cancer when applied regularly for feminine hygiene.

 

 

3 shootings in Rochester over the weekend.  A 29-year-old Rochester man was taken to the hospital after a shooting Saturday evening.  The Rochester Police Department say they responded to a scene on Warsaw Street, where they found the victim with a gunshot wound to his upper body.  He was transported to Strong Hospital for what was deemed non-life threatening injuries.  Officers say an 18-year-old man was shot on Lyncourt Park Saturday night around 8:15.  Greece Police say the shooting happened in relation to a party in the area.  The victim was dropped off at a local hospital where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries.  Party goers and the victim refused to cooperate with the police.  As part of the shooting a stray bullet went through a house that had a family at home at the time.  It went through a window and out an exterior wall after striking a chair and a computer monitor.  No one was injured.  City of Rochester police are investigating an incident on St. Paul Street where a 14-year-old boy was found with a gunshot wound on Sunday.  The department says the shots were heard around 6:30 Sunday evening.  The boy sustained a gunshot wound to his lower body. He was transported to the hospital for treatment, and he is expected to survive.  

The new Rochester Regional Health building across I90 is complete and stands ready to receive patients.  Although the official opening date is the 26th, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Friday and several officials received tours of the new facility.  Many of the medical offices and services offered by United Memorial Medical Center and RRH at St. Jerome’s and other medical buildings are moving into the new medical campus, making it more of a one-stop shop for area residents receiving out-patient medical care.  RRH invested nearly $45 million in the 95,000-square-foot facility.  Hospital officials describe the facility as “centrally located right off the Thruway, in a convenient place both for local residents and those coming from around the region.  There will be more than a dozen specialty services all under one roof, including primary care, pediatrics, orthopedics, otolaryngology, plastic surgery, vascular surgery, neurosciences and Sands-Constellation Heart Institute cardiologists.  Also included is a 7 day Urgent care and lab services.

On Friday, Orleans County received 2 million dollars in FEMA funding to construct a new building for the Emergency Operations Management Center.  Currently the EOM center resides in a bunker built in the 1960’s that has a leaky roof and cramped spaces for workers.  Justin Niederhofer, the director of the Orleans County Emergency Management team says that the building needs improvements and has for decades.  The county serves more than 40,000 residents and the funding will help make the team Niederhofer manages able to do their jobs better.  The emergency management office hopes to begin the transformation of the bunker into the new building soon. But no timeline has been released yet.

2 people are injured after an auto accident on Lewiston Rd on Sunday morning.  Around 1:16am a single vehicle crashed off the road near 8215 Lewiston Rd.  Two passengers in the vehicle sustained multiple injuries and were transported to the hospital.  The driver, 22 year old Owen Scouten of Batavia, was found to have a blood alcohol level higher than .08 percent and was charged with DWI, Speed not reasonable, moving from a lane unsafely, and drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle on a highway.  He will be charged with more once the severity of the passengers injuries is determined. 

EA Sport’s Madden NFL, a popular football video game, has a special place in the hearts of Buffalo Bills fans this year.  The face of Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen is on the cover of Madden NFL 24. This is the first time in Madden history the game has featured a Bills player.  However, an athlete on the cover of Madden is not always a good sign. Some football lovers believe in the “Madden Curse” — a superstition that the player on the cover of the game will face an injury or bad luck in the upcoming season.  Still, many Bills fans consider this a dream come true.

Buffalo Bills Offensive Tackle Tommy Doyle is out for the season after Saturday’s Bills and Steelers game. Head coach Sean McDermott confirmed Sunday what most previously believed was a season-ending injury for Tommy Doyle.  Although McDermott didn’t mention specifics, Doyle was ruled out Saturday with a left knee injury.  Doyle suffered an ACL tear to his right knee last September and missed most of the 2022-23 season.  With Doyle out and Brandon Shell retiring last week, the Bills are left with three backup offensive tackles entering their final preseason game against the Bears on the 26th.

The Batavia Airport is the place to be on Labor Day Weekend. The Wings Over Batavia Air Show is scheduled for the evenings of September 2 and 3. National acts and a choreographed fireworks show will be included, along with flight performances. The air show is looking for groups to work the food courts and parking lots as a fundraising opportunity. For interest in working the food courts, visit: https://forms.gle/TRhMYknQuuY5NuEi6, for parking visit https://wingsoverbatavia.com/volunteer/

 

Genesee County law enforcement agencies, including the Sheriff’s, City of Batavia Police Department, and Village of LeRoy Police Department will once again be participating in a coordinated effort with the STOP-DWI program to bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving. Law enforcement officers across the state are taking to the roads in an effort to stop impaired driving, prevent injuries and save lives. The statewide STOP-DWI Campaign starts today and will be in place through Labor Day Monday, September 4th. This event is one of many statewide enforcement initiatives promoted by the New York State STOP-DWI Association with additional funding from the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. STOP-DWI efforts across New York have led to significant reductions in the numbers of alcohol and drug related fatalities, however, still too many lives are being lost because of crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers. Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI High Visibility Engagement Campaigns aim to further reduce the incidence of drunk and impaired driving. Always remember impaired driving is completely preventable. All it takes is a little planning.

 

The Mothers of Veteran Suicide received a donation of a little over $3300. The money represented proceeds from the Sock Hop at Batavia Downs on August 7th. Over 150 people attended on that Monday afternoon and enjoyed music by Ruby Shooz and an appearance by NFL Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas. Several raffles also helped to raise funds for the cause.

 

 

 

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz believes a hotel in Cheektowaga that’s currently housing migrants is going to be closed down soon. Poloncarz says he’s had discussions with other officials about shutting the Dingens Street hotel, which is in a residential area. But, he did not reveal where those asylum seekers could be moved. Members of the National Guard are currently in Erie County to help out hotels that are housing migrants.

 

The driver of a Kia involved in a crash that killed four teenagers has been sentenced. Yesterday, a judge ordered the teen to spend up to the next four years in prison. The driver was speeding last October when the vehicle struck an embankment near where Route 33 meets Route 198. A total of five passengers were thrown from the car and only one survived. Before the crash, the vehicle was reported stolen in Buffalo.

 

People who used a credit card to shop at a Wegmans store this week may want to keep a close eye on their accounts. The supermarket chain says that it has identified a problem with credit card transactions that were processed in-store and online Wednesday. Some credit cards ended up being charged twice, but debit card users weren’t affected. Customers will see any duplicate charges reversed in the coming days.

 

Mark your calendar for Mar. 2, 2024 – that’s the date for the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards. The event honors businesses and residents for achievements in business, community service and volunteerism, and nominations are now being accepted for those awards. Nomination forms are available at the chamber’s office or at the chamber’s website, geneseeny.com. Nominations need to be made by December 29.

Governor Hochul says New York State remains a safe haven for people who are seeking abortion care. The governor made the proclamation following a federal court ruling that attempted to curb access to the abortion drug mifepristone. In June, Hochul signed legislation shielding New York doctors who prescribe abortion medication across state lines. She also says mifepristone is still legal and available statewide.

 

 

One of the most iconic broadcasters in Buffalo Sabres history, Rick Jeanneret passed away last night. The St. Catharines, Ontario native was 81. Jeanneret called Sabres hockey games for 51-years. He had some of the most memorable calls in hockey history, from “May Day,” to “Roll the highlight film,” to “Scary Good,” and the memorable “La-la-la-la-la-la-LaFontaine.” Jeanneret had his name raised to the rafters of the KeyBank Center in April 2022, only the third non-player to have the honor.

 

The stars of the NASCAR Cup Series will be making their only appearance of the season in the Empire State this weekend. They’re set to compete in the Go Bowling At The Glen at Watkins Glen International. Kyle Larson is the defending winner of the event and other contenders include Chase Elliott, Kyle Busch and also Kevin Harvick. The green flag is scheduled to drop shortly after 3 p.m. Sunday and tickets are still available at theglen.com.

 

The Buffalo Bills are going to be back in action tomorrow for their second of three preseason games. The Bills will be in the Steel City to take on the Pittsburgh Steelers. Many of the Bills regular starters, including quarterback Josh Allen are expected to see some playing time. Buffalo is coming off a 23-to-19 win over the Indianapolis Colts last Saturday. Kickoff tomorrow night is set for 6:30. And in case you missed it: Scroll to the bottom of this page for a detailed story of the Bills first game in Orchard Park against the Redskins, from 50 years ago yesterday.

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

Hurricane Hilary southwest of Mexico is now at Category 4 strength with winds of 140 miles per hour. The storm is expected to weaken before it hits Southern California and the Southwest this weekend, but is still expected to bring heavy rain and flooding to the region. Forecasters say Hilary will make landfall in the U.S. Sunday night or early Monday.

 

 

The Biden administration has approved sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine to help fight Russian forces. A U.S. official confirmed on Thursday that the American-made planes would be sent from Denmark and the Netherlands as soon as pilot training is completed. Ukraine has been lobbying for F-16s to help fight against Russian air superiority.

 

 

Third-party sellers on Amazon who ship their own packages will soon have to pay an additional fee. Starting October 1st, members of Amazon’s Seller Fulfilled Prime program will pay the company a two-percent fee on each product sold if they don’t pay for the company’s fulfillment services.

 

The Powerball jackpot is on the rise once again and has now surpassed the quarter-billion dollar mark. Whoever correctly picks all six winning numbers for tomorrow night’s drawing will get a prize of at least $264 million. Anyone who wants to watch the drawing can do so live at Powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

 

The emergency official in Maui who didn’t sound the warning sirens during the Lahaina wildfire has resigned. His resignation comes one day after he defended his decision not to activate the sirens. Herman Andaya said he feared coastal residents, fearing a tsunami, would have fled inland toward the flames.

 

 

Today is Friday, August 18th, the 230th day of the year.

August 18 in history…

 

…In 1587, Virginia Dare became the first child of English parents born on American soil.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson issued his “Proclamation of Neutrality” aimed at keeping the U.S. out of World War One.

 

 

 

 

…In 1962, the Suicide Investigation Team announced Marilyn Monroe died as a result of a drug overdose.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1977, funeral services were held for Elvis Presley at his Graceland estate in Memphis, Tennessee. More than 75,000 mourners surrounded the estate.

 

 

 

…In 1992, Larry Bird announced his retirement from basketball. In 13 seasons, Bird was a three-time MVP, he played in 12 All-Star games and reached double figures in points, rebounds and assists 69 times.

 

 

 

…In 2005, Dennis Rader, the man known as the BTK serial killer, was sentenced to ten consecutive life terms for the brutal murders of ten people in the Wichita, Kansas area between 1974 and 1991. The 60-year-old, a married father and Boy Scout leader, was arrested in February, 2005 after eluding and taunting police for more than 30 years.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 2015, Subway officially cut ties with Jared Fogle. The announcement came before Fogle was expected to agree to a plea deal in connection with a child pornography case.

 

 

 

 

 

 

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: The newspaper article that covered the Bills first game in Orchard Park (8/17/73)

 

It’s hard to believe that it has been 51 years since the groundbreaking ceremonies were held at what was then Rich Stadium on April 4, 1972. Fast-forward, and a few name changes later the Buffalo Bills stadium is now celebrating that 50 years ago this week, they played their very first game in Orchard Park. It was on August 17, 1973 against the Washington Redskins. Here’s the article about the game that appeared in The New York Times, August 18, 1973:

BUFFALO, Aug. 17—Herb Mul-Key of the Washington Redskins made the first play in the Buffalo Bills’ magnificent new stadium a memorable one tonight when he returned the opening kickoff 102 yards for a touchdown. The Redskins went on to defeat the Bills, 37-21, before a capacity crowd of 80,020 in Rich Stadium.

“It was a Hall of Fame play,” said Dick Gallagher, director of pro football’s Hall of Fame at Canton, Ohio.
Opening night was accompanied by a huge traffic jam to the stadium and ari even worse one going out for what was purported to be the largest footbal crowd in the history of New York State. About a quarter of the seats were unoccupied when the game began as cars were backed up for miles.

The attendance established the stadium in suburban Orchard Park, east of the city, as the second largest in the National Football League, with only the elderly Tulane Stadium in New Orleans seating 977 more.

Sign Removed

The game was a desultory one decided on the opening play, in which Mul-Key remarkably ran 102 yards in nearly 11 seconds through a scattered Buffalo defense. The Redskins built a 31-14 half-time lead and half the crowd was back in the lots and on the single-lane access roads, bumper to bumper, before the contest ended.

The stadium replaced the old and worn War Memorial Stadium where the Bills had played since 1960. The new plant, which cost $22 million, did not go up without controversy. And the controversy continued today.

The Rich Products Company, which manufactures a creamer for coffee and tea, paid Erie County, builder of the public facility, $1.5 million to have the stadium named after the firm. This was against the objection of the Bills, the prime tenant, and the football club today had a sign 16 inches high reading “Rich S.” removed from the side of the stadium.

The Bills contend that the arrangement between the Erie County Commissioners and the Rich firm did not allow for signs. The county has taken the matter to court for a decision on Tuesday.

This debate was another m a long series between Ralph Wilson Jr. of Detroit, the president of the football club, and the county commissioners. The commissioners originally planned for a domed stadium and spent thousands of dollars on plans before the public financing failed. The steadily mounting cost estimates had reached $70 million.

The new rectangular stadium is a compromise. For $22 million, it appears to be a bargain in relation to New Orleans’ Super Dome, now under construction at a cost of $135 million for the same seating capacity. The N.F.L.’s new stadium last year, Arrowhead in Kansas City with 78,000 seats, cost about $42 million. The 1971 model, Texas Stadium in Dallas, cost $28 million for 65,000 seats.

Sight Lines Good

The latter two are truly luxurious in the matter of stadium clubs, press boxes and private suites. But when it comes to bread and butter features such as sight lines, parking access and spacious seats, the Bills’ facility is first-class.

Was this the largest crowd ever to attend a sports event in New York State? No. A crowd of 81,036 watched Canoneto II’s unsuccessful bid for the Triple Crown in 1971 at Belmont Park.

Some historians also point to baseball crowds in Yankee Stadium almost 40 years ago that exceeded 80,000. Others say, however, that people came in and went out when they could not find seats as the Yankees continued to sell tickets throughout doubleheaders. Yankee Stadium has 62,892 teats.

Parts of Bank Street in the city of Batavia will be closed this morning from 7 to 9 to prepare for the Bank Street Pop-Up Demonstration. The event is from 10 a.m to 2 p.m. with the goal to get feedback on improving the street’s appearance and walkability. Again, parts of Bank Street in Batavia will be closed from 7-9 this morning to prepare for the event.

—

Arguably the most iconic broadcaster in Buffalo Sabres history, Rick Jeanneret passed away Thursday night. The St. Catharines, Ontario native was 81. Jeanneret called Sabres hockey games for 51-years. He had some of the most memorable calls in hockey history, from “May Day,” to “Roll the highlight film,” to “Scary Good,” and the memorable “La-la-la-la-la-la-LaFontaine.” Jeanneret had his name raised to the rafters of the KeyBank Center in April 2022, only the third non-player to have the honor.

—

The latest job numbers from New York state show a slight increase in the number of jobs. The state added 6,300 jobs over the month of July, a .1% increase from June. That’s the same percentage increase for the national job numbers. The state’s unemployment rate stayed constant at 3.9%

—

State Sen. George Borello is teaming up with a southern tier assemblymember on a bill to allow judges and justices in towns and villages to carry guns in court. Currently, both can’t carry guns into court, which is considered a ‘sensitive location’ under current law. If the proposed bill is passed, judges and justices would have to acquire a pistol permit to carry a gun into court. Both lawmakers say the bill would allow judges and justices to protect themselves and others because many courtrooms in remote towns don’t have police nearby.

—

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand will be in Albion this morning to announce funding for a new Emergency Operations Center. The current center is in a building and bomb shelter built in the 1960s that currently has a leaking roof. Two million dollars in federal funding will go towards building a new Emergency Operations Center for the 46,000 residents in Orleans County.

—

The Wings Over Batavia Air Show will be happening at the Batavia Airport Labor Day weekend. The nighttime air show on September 2 and 3 will bring national acts and a choreographed fireworks and flight performance. The air show is looking for groups to work the food courts and parking lots as a fundraising opportunity. For interest in working the food courts, visit: https://forms.gle/TRhMYknQuuY5NuEi6, for parking visit https://wingsoverbatavia.com/volunteer/

 

—

Mark your calendar for Mar. 2, 2024 – that’s the date for the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards. The event honors businesses and residents for achievements in business, community service and volunteerism, and nominations are now being accepted for those awards. Nomination forms are available at the chamber’s office or at the chamber’s website, geneseeny.com. Nominations need to be made by Dec. 29.

 

 

Western Region Off Track Betting (WROTB) and Batavia Downs President and CEO Henry Wojtaszek was joined by staff from Mothers of Veteran Suicide as they were presented with a check for $3,300. These proceeds were from the “Sock Hop” event that took place at Batavia Downs on August 7th, 2023.

 

“We know how important the work that Mothers of Veteran Suicide does in the Veterans community,” Wojtaszek said. “They have had their RV at our concert series and have travelled around the country raising awareness. We are honored to have helped host this event to raise much needed funds for their mission.”

 

“We are so grateful to the staff from Batavia Downs, “said Michele Ladd, President/CEO Mothers of Veteran Suicide. “With their promotion and assistance, we were able to put on an event that attracted more people than we thought we would have.

 

Over 150 people attended the Monday afternoon Sock Hop which included Music by Ruby Shooz, an appearance from Batavia Downs Ambassador and NFL Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas and several raffles which raised an additional $1,994 in funds.

 

Plans are already underway to schedule next year’s event.

 

About Batavia Downs/WROTB

Western Region Off-Track Betting Corporation is a public benefit corporation with headquarters in Batavia, NY. WROTB owns and operates 8 OTB branches, 2 ADW sites, 27 Ez-Bet sites, as well as Batavia Downs Gaming, a standard bred racetrack and gaming and hotel facility. Since its inception, Western Region OTB has generated over $251 million in operating and surcharge revenues to the taxpayers of participating municipalities.

 

About Mothers of Veteran Suicide

Mothers of Veteran Suicide is a faith-based organization providing HOPE and Healing to the Mothers of Military and Veteran Suicide and their families. Formerly, National Veteran Resources, their Founder has traveled the country since 2017 raising awareness and finding resources for Veteran Suicide Prevention.

 

PRESS RELEASE:

Genesee County and the City of Batavia are excited to announce the “Bank Street Pop-Up Demonstration” on Friday, August 18th, 2023, from 10 am to 2 pm between Main Street and Washington Avenue. This community-focused event, part of the Active People, Healthy Nation Walkability Virtual Academy, aims to gather public feedback to improve the street’s appearance and walkability. The insights collected will help guide the street design, crosswalk placements, and overall mobility.

To prepare for the event, parts of Bank Street will be temporarily closed to traffic from 7 am to 9 am on August 18th. Collaborations with local artists and businesses will enhance the demonstration’s visual appeal. Thank you to artists from GO ART! for painting attractive crosswalks, Batavia Turf for providing turf, and Pudgie’s Lawn & Garden for donating flowers.

The initiative marks a significant step towards a community that values well-being, physical activity, and safe, accessible streets. Come and share your thoughts to help shape a more vibrant neighborhood!

 

 

Genesee County Sheriffs have caught up with a Batavia man who fled from them in July. 33-year-old Akeem Gibson of Batavia, who has a long criminal history, allegedly fled from Sheriff’s deputies on July 30 in a motor vehicle, but was arrested Tuesday in the town of Batavia. Gibson also faces reckless endangerment charges. He was held at Genesee County Jail pending CAP Court arraignment.

 

 

 

 

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello says he supports Governor Hochul’s decision to send members of the National Guard to the area. Bello says officials are taking a proactive approach because more asylum seekers might be coming to the county. He also says that so far, there have not been any major issues with the people who are already here. Migrants are currently staying at a Holiday Inn, and the National Guard is expected to arrive tomorrow.

 

State Attorney General Letitia James is making a request of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. She is urging the agency to expedite work authorization for migrants who are new to the United States. James says any delays in this process prevents migrants from finding work and makes it tougher for states to provide them with proper support. The AG went on to say that migrants helped build the Empire State and she’ll continue to fight to ensure they’re treated with dignity.

 

Over a dozen people who witnessed the mass shooting at a Tops supermarket in Buffalo last year have filed a lawsuit. They’re taking action against social media companies, the retailer that sold Payton Gendron his gun, and the company that manufactured his body armor. The plaintiffs claim they suffered severe trauma as a result of the shooting in May 2022 that left 10 people dead and three others hurt. Gendron has already pleaded guilty to state charges and will spend the rest of his life in prison.

 

 

Two people are lucky to avoid being seriously injured after the vehicle they were in fell into a sinkhole in Irondequoit. The incident happened yesterday as heavy rains soaked the area and officials believe a storm drain failed, which led to the hole near Saint Paul Boulevard opening up. A woman and her passenger needed to be rescued. The road is expected to be closed down for a couple of days. (13WHAM Photos)

 

ELSEWHERE…

The start of the New York State Fair is under a week away, and organizers have revealed the calendar of special days that will be happening during the event. The fun begins on Opening Day, which is August 23rd, and continues with Student Youth Day on August 24th, Pride Day August 25th and Law Enforcement Day on August 28th. Other special days include Women’s Day, Armed Forces Day, and Apple Day. For more information, including a list of concerts, head to NYSfair.NY.gov.

 

 

 

Surgeons at NYU Langone Hospital are doing groundbreaking surgery. The doctors successfully transplanted a gene-modified pig kidney into a brain-dead person and will be studying it for two months. Previously, the transplants lasted two to three days. Doctors say it’s a big step as a life-saving source for patients, when human organs aren’t readily available.

 

New York State is issuing a warning after multiple people died from rare flesh-eating bacteria. Governor Kathy Hochul confirmed on Wednesday that a person who died recently on Long Island had tested positive for the bacteria, and was the third person to die in recent weeks after being infected by it. (More information: Necrotizing fasciitis is a serious but rare bacterial infection. It is also known as a flesh-eating disease. Early signs and symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis include flu-like symptoms, severe pain in the affected area, and more. It happens when bacteria enter a wound and cause a skin infection that can spread quickly through the deep tissues in the body. It is very rare in the United States, affecting about .4 of every 100,000 people.

 

Younger people are being diagnosed with cancer more often than before. A study published in the journal JAMA Network Open shows that between 2010 and 2019 there’s been a “substantial” increase in the rates of early-onset cancers. Gastrointestinal cancers had the fastest-growing rates.

 

Today is Thursday, August 17th, the 229th day of the year.

August 16 in history…

 

…In 1903, Joseph Pulitzer donated $1 million to Columbia University. The Pulitzer Prizes were named in his honor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In 1915, Charles Kettering patented the “engine-starting device.” It is considered the first electric ignition device for cars.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1969, Hurricane Camille ravaged Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana. The storm killed 259 people and injured thousands more. Camille packed winds in excess of 200 miles per hour.

 

 

 

 

…Also in 1969, the final day of Woodstock took place, closing with Jimi Hendrix and his newly formed band, Gypsy Sun & Rainbows, as the final act. However, they did not take the stage to start their two-hour set until nine o’clock the next morning due to bad weather and other delays. By that time, a large percentage of people had left; the audience of about 500,000 was down to roughly 40,000.

 

 

 

…In 1979, actress Vivian Vance died at the age of 70. She is best known for playing the role of Ethel Mertz on “I Love Lucy.”

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1992, actor-director Woody Allen admitted to being romantically involved with his adopted daughter Soon-Yi Previn.

 

 

 

 

…In 1998, President Clinton, via closed circuit TV, gave more than four hours of grand jury testimony in the Monica Lewinsky scandal. He later announced during a televised speech, quote, “I did have a relationship with Ms. Lewinsky that was not appropriate.” Clinton also denied previously committing perjury and criticized Kenneth Starr’s investigation.

New York Attorney General Letitia James is calling for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to take immediate action to grant work permits for migrants who are new to the United States. James joins a coalition of 19 attorneys general, who have sent a letter to Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas urging the federal government to resolve the delays and red tape that are preventing migrants from finding work and making it more difficult for states to provide sufficient resources to support migrants.

James says businesses are experiencing increasing demand for workers in key industries like food service, retail, transportation, and health care, and some of the migrants are immediately eligible for permits. But processing delays have left some migrants waiting 10 months or more for initial working papers and some that have secured working papers have lost jobs while waiting for a renewal.

—

National Guard members are now at three Erie County hotels that are housing migrants bused from New York City, and it’s expected that National Guard members will be in Monroe County on Friday. The Erie and Monroe County executives requested assistance from the National Guard after two sexual assault incidents involving migrants occurred in Cheektowaga.

—

Genesee County Sheriffs have caught up to a Batavia man who fled from them in July. Akeem Gibson, 33, Batavia, allegedly fled from Sheriff’s deputies on July 30 in a motor vehicle, but was arrested Tuesday in the town of Batavia. Gibson also faces reckless endangerment charges.

—

There are additional lawsuits connected to the Tops mass shooting. Two civil lawsuits were announced Wednesday, one from a man who lost his mother in the shooting, and the other on behalf of 16 shoppers and store employees who were at the store during the shooting. The defendants include the websites Reddit and Google along with its YouTube service,  the store where the gun used was purchased, and the shooter’s parents.

—

A sinkhole swallowed up a car and two people in Irondequoit. It happened on St. Paul Boulevard Wednesday morning. Officials believe that a storm drain failed during heavy rains that went through the region. The two people in the car were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

 

From the Sheriff: 53-year-old Mark Frongetta of Batavia has been arrested for disorderly conduct. This followed an investigation into a complaint of a male intentionally causing public inconvenience and annoyance by yelling obscenities in the lobby of the Best Western Inn on Park Road, and then throwing the hotel’s phone. Frongetta was held for CAP Court and will be in front of a judge in Town of Batavia Court next Tuesday. (File photo)

 

The National Guard will be headed to Buffalo and Rochester to assist with the influx of asylum seekers being moved from New York City to both cities. This comes after assault cases involving a handful of the asylum seekers. Some of the asylum seekers have returned to New York City, because they didn’t realize they were being transported to western New York, and wanted to return to New York City.

 

As you heard this morning with John Vazquez: The leader of the New York State Assembly says don’t expect state lawmakers to tweak cannabis laws to allow more retails shops to open. Currently, no new recreational cannabis shops can open up in New York State due to a lawsuit by four veterans who say they should be among the groups given priority to obtain a cannabis license. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie says the current rules which prioritizes awarding licenses to those with prior marijuana-related convictions is not meant to exclude others, but to make up for communities that were devastated by incarceration around cannabis. The lawsuit will be heard in state Supreme Court on Aug. 25.

 

Governor Hochul is awarding nearly $40 million in grant money for locations throughout New York State to prepare to bring in more semiconductor supply chain jobs. The governor made the announcement yesterday during a visit to SUNY Polytechnic Institute in Utica. The County of Monroe Industrial Development Agency is set to receive $20 million. The governor believes this money will help New York attract elite companies that will create good jobs and boost the economy.

 

 

The investigation continues into a string of vehicle thefts at the Seneca Park Zoo in Rochester. According to police, a number of vehicles have been taken from the parking lot this month alone. Additional patrols have been set up in the area to try and catch thieves. Anyone who spots suspicious activity is asked to call 911.

 

 

 

The Niagara County Department of Health will be starting a workshop next month to help residents who are suffering from diabetes. The first meeting is set for September 8th, and the program will last for six weeks. Sessions will be held each Friday from 9:30am until noon at the North Tonawanda Public Library. The workshop will cover things including healthy eating, skin care and dealing with emotions. To sign up, call 716-278-1900.

 

 

Monroe County deputies are looking for whoever is responsible for leaving a bomb threat at a Target store in Penfield. An employee reported seeing the threat in a women’s bathroom yesterday and called police. The store was evacuated as a precaution, but after nothing dangerous was discovered, customers were allowed to go back inside. Officials don’t believe there’s any threat to the public.

 

Country music superstar Luke Combs is bringing his brand-new tour to Western New York next year. He’ll be performing two shows at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park on April 19th and 20th. Combs is one of the most popular country artists right now, and is known for hit songs such as “Hurricane” and “Beautiful Crazy.” Tickets for the concerts go on sale next Friday at 10:00am through Live Nation.

 

The fourth edition of Josh’s Jaqs cereal is going to be appearing on store shelves at Wegmans and Tops Friendly Markets stores. The cereal features Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen and all proceeds will go to the John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital in Buffalo. Folks can also scan a QR code on the box that will let them make their own donations. For more information, go to plbse.com.

 

 

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

13-year-old Wyatt Kauffman fell 100 feet into the Grand Canyon. Scroll to the end of today’s News Brief page for the details.

 

 

 

 

This news in from Wales: Metal detectorists in Wales have found 2000-year-old gold coins. That’s the first Iron Age gold coins discovered in the country, according to CNN. The 15 coins were found on the Welsh island of Anglesey and have been declared as treasure. They’re known as staters. The coins are believed to have been struck between 60 BC and 20 BC and belonged to the Corieltavi tribe.

 

A new survey shows saying hello to your neighbors is linked to a higher well being. According to Gallup, American adults who regularly greet more than one neighbor have better well being than those who don’t say hello or just greet one. Older Americans and those with higher income tend to greet their neighbors more often. On average, the poll says Americans report greeting five neighbors. Over a quarter say hello to six or more.

 

 

For the first time ever, television accounts for less than half of Americans’ viewing time. According to Nielsen, traditional cable and broadcast TV made up less than half of all TV watching at just 49.6% combined. On the other hand, streaming services including Netflix and YouTube grew to a record of nearly 40% of total TV watching.

 

Negotiators for striking Hollywood writers and the studios sat down to talk Tuesday. One source told Deadline the meeting ended with “mixed results.” The Writers Guild of America is said to have presented a counter to the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers’ counterproposal from Friday. There was no word on future talks or proposals.

 

 

Today is Wednesday, August 16th, the 228th day of the year.

August 16 in history…

…In 1896, Skookum Jim, Dawson Charlie and George Carmack discovered gold in Rabbit Creek, a tributary of the Klondike River. The discovery led to the Klondike Gold Rush.

 

 

…In 1898, the vertical loop roller coaster was patented by Edwin Prescott.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1948, baseball legend Babe Ruth died at the age of 53.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1954, the first issue of “Sports Illustrated” was published.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1962, the Beatles’ drummer Pete Best was let go by the band’s manager Brian Epstein. Best was replaced by Ringo Starr.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1977, rock and roll legend Elvis Presley died at the age 42. He is widely regarded as “The King of Rock and Roll.” He is a member of both the Country Music and Rock and Roll Halls-of-Fame.

 

 

 

 

…In 1983, singer Paul Simon married actress Carrie Fisher. The two divorced a year later in 1984.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1985, Madonna and actor Sean Penn were married in Malibu Beach, California. The couple filed for divorce three years later.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The detailed story of Wyatt Kauffman:

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Ariz. — A 13-year-old North Dakota boy has survived a fall of nearly 100 feet at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon during a family trip. Authorities said it took emergency crews two hours to rescue Wyatt Kauffman after he slipped on a cliff Tuesday and plunged the nearly 100 feet at the Bright Angel Point trail.

 

The teenager was airlifted to a Las Vegas hospital for treatment of nine broken vertebrae plus a ruptured spleen, a collapsed lung, a concussion and a broken hand and dislocated finger. “I was up on the ledge and was moving out of the way so other people could take a picture,” Kauffman told NBC affiliate KPNX of Phoenix. “I squatted down and was holding on to a rock. I only had one hand on it. “It wasn’t that good of a grip. It was kind of pushing me back. I lost my grip and started to fall back,” he added. Rescue crews had to rappel down the cliff and get the injured boy out of the canyon in a basket. “I just remember somewhat waking up and being in the back of an ambulance and a helicopter and getting on a plane and getting here” to the hospital, said Kauffman, who lives in Casselton, North Dakota. Brian Kauffman was in North Dakota when he heard about his son’s fall and rescue.

 

A National Park Service search and rescue team set up a rope rescue down to the steep and narrow trail and raised the teen safely to the rim. “We’re extremely grateful for the work of everyone. Two hours is an eternity in a situation like that,” Brian Kauffman said. He said Wyatt and his mother were on a trip to visit national parks when the Grand Canyon fall occurred. Brian Kauffman said his son was discharged from the hospital Saturday and was being driven home. Wyatt and his mom were expected to reach Casselton on Tuesday. “We’re just lucky we’re bringing our kid home in a car in the front seat instead of in a box,” Brian Kauffman told NBC News station KPNX.

 

 

The National Guard will be headed to Buffalo and Rochester to assist with the influx of asylum seekers being moved from New York City to both cities. This comes after assault cases involving a handful of the asylum seekers. Some of the asylum seekers have returned to New York City, because they didn’t realize they were being transported to western New York, and wanted to return to New York City.

—

Former Batavia Councilmember Patti Pacino was honored for her contributions, not only to the council, but to the community. Pacino was recognized during City Council’s conference session on Monday night according to our news partner, The Batavian.  Pacino represented the Second Ward for 13 years, and involved with the Zonta Club, Kiwanis Club, Girl Scouts, and the Genesee-Orleans Council on the Arts. Pacino had surgery on a brain tumor in December; she announced her retired from the Council in March.

—

In response to an uptick in violence, Batavia City Council reversed its hiring freeze and unanimously agreed to an additional police officer and re-establish the Neighborhood Enforcement Team. Our news partner The Batavian says the city will use its portion of revenues from Batavia Downs’ video lottery terminals to pay for the new position, along with a current officer and equipment to re-establish the NET to assist the police department and detectives.

—

One car rental company is paying New York State for turning away customers who did not provide a credit card. Attorney General Letitia James says more than 70 Avis Car Rental and Budget Rent-A-Car locations across New York told people they couldn’t rent a car without a credit card, which is illegal under state law. The AG’s office opened an investigation back into the company back in 2022 after receiving a customer complaint. Avis Budget must now pay $275,000 in penalties and update their policies and employee training.

—

For the first time ever, television accounts for less than half of Americans’ viewing time. According to Nielsen, traditional cable and broadcast TV made up less than half of all TV watching at just 49.6% combined. On the other hand, streaming services including Netflix and YouTube grew to a record of nearly 40% of total TV watching. Year-over-year, broadcast TV dropped over 5% and cable dropped 12.5%. But streaming jumped over 25% year-over-year in July.

—

Fall will be here before you know it, and Six Flags Darien Lake is looking to hire people who want to work at this year’s Fright Fest. Open interviews for positions are taking place on Tuesdays and Saturdays through September 2nd at the human resources building. Perks of being a Six Flags employee include in-park discounts and other benefits. For more information, call 585-599-5108 weekdays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. or go to SixFlags.com/DarienLake.

—

The leader of the New York State Assembly says don’t expect state lawmakers to tweak cannabis laws to allow more retails shops to open. Currently, no new recreational cannabis shops can open up in New York state due to a lawsuit by four veterans who say they should be among the groups given priority to obtain a cannabis license. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie says the current rules which prioritizes awarding licenses to those with prior marijuana-related convictions is not meant to exclude others, but to make up for communities that were devastated by incarceration around cannabis. The lawsuit will be heard in state Supreme Court on Aug. 25.

 

The Spencerport teacher arrested on child pornography charges has made an appearance in federal court. Prosecutors say 37-year-old Ian Milam posed as a high school student and sent explicit videos to at least one person. Milam is a sixth grade math teacher at Cosgrove Middle School. The FBI is still asking anyone who may have been in contact with him to call 585-279-0085.

 

 

 

20-year-old Raul Cruz of Warsaw and formerly of Albion, already faces 50 years to life in prison. He was convicted of murdering two migrant workers at a farm in Alexander. And while awaiting sentencing in the Genesee County Jail last December, Cruz was indicted and charged with promoting prison contraband for possessing shanks in the jail. He chose a bench trial, which was scheduled for this morning. If Cruz is convicted on these new charges, he faces an additional seven years in prison.

 

 

 

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz has announced steps that are being taken ahead of future winter storms that could put the lives of residents at risk. He says the county will be buying heavy-duty snow clearing equipment and industrial snow blowers to help with cleanup efforts. Ambulances will also work with tracked vehicles so they can get to patients who need medical help. Dozens of people died during a blizzard last year that lasted over 36 hours and left several feet of snow on the ground.

 

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello is asking for the National Guard to come to the area due to ongoing concerns about asylum seekers. In Erie County, two migrants were recently arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting women in separate incidents at hotels in Cheektowaga. In Monroe County, all emergency housing plans must be approved by the Department of Human Services before asylum seekers can arrive. But despite that policy, Bello is still requesting additional security.

 

Congressman Nick Langworthy is calling for immediate action to address what he’s calling a migrant crisis in the region. Langworthy says the fact that two asylum seekers were recently arrested for allegedly being involved in sexual assaults at hotels in Cheektowaga is proof that changes need to be made. He’s criticizing lawmakers in Albany and also President Biden, claiming that his administration has dangerous open border policies. No additional migrants will be coming to Erie County for the time being.

 

 

More information has been released about an incident at Buffalo’s Outer Harbor that resulted in several people being hospitalized. Officials believe a fight and a report of a firearm, which led to concertgoers scattering during a music festival on Sunday night, caused a disturbance. The worst injury among the people who were hurt was a broken arm. No gunshots were fired and no other issues were reported during the show.

 

 

A bookkeeper that used to work with the Southtowns Regional Chamber of Commerce has been sentenced for stealing over $168,000 from her former employer. The Erie County DA’s office says Cynthia Matla used the chamber’s debit card and issued checks to herself to pay for personal expenses. She’s now been ordered to spend the next five years on probation. She’s also paid back the money she took.

 

 

 

As reported by John Vazquez this morning: An audit from the state comptroller’s office says the state needs to make improvements to state parks for people with disabilities. The audit says the parks meet the minimum standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act, but more can be done. Out of the 40 parks that were reviewed, about two-thirds can be improved. Some parks have inaccessible entrances and bathrooms, and some have limited parking for those with disabilities. The audit did applaud some ways the parks have improved accessibility, including the Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park.

 

The New York State Department of Labor is launching a new service to help businesses find skilled job candidates. The enhanced Virtual Career Center allows businesses to find qualified candidates with specific skills, and also allows employers to post jobs and communicate directly with job candidates. The free platform was initially launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to connect unemployed New Yorkers with job opportunities. The state says more than 80,000 job seekers have signed up to use this online resource:  https://dol.ny.gov/virtual-career-center

 

 

Fall will be here before you know it, and Six Flags Darien Lake is looking to hire people who want to work at this year’s Fright Fest. Open interviews for positions are taking place on Tuesdays and Saturdays through September 2nd at the human resources building. Perks of being a Six Flags employee include in-park discounts and other benefits. For more information, call 585-599-5108 weekdays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. or go to sixflags.com/DarienLake.

 

ELSEWHERE…

Americans are consuming alcohol at a steady rate. Gallup’s latest Consumption Habits poll shows that 62% of Americans said they had “occasion to use alcoholic beverages such as liquor, wine or beer.” That’s in line with its findings for more than eight decades that the company has been tracking the number. It peaked in the late 70s at 71%. Meanwhile, this year 38% said that they do not drink at all and 24% of them responded they don’t care for alcohol at all. For those who do drink, 69% said they drank in the past week and 32% in the past day.

 

The Fulton County, Georgia District Attorney says former President Trump was part of a “criminal conspiracy” to overturn the state’s 2020 election results. Democrat Fani Willis said Trump has until noon next Friday to voluntarily surrender after he was indicted. Trump faces felony racketeering charges and more. The 97-page indictment includes 41 felony counts.

 

Meanwhile, the Trump campaign is blasting the latest indictment against the former President. The campaign accuses Democrat Fani Willis, the Fulton County District Attorney, of being a “rabid partisan.” It adds her election interference investigation is based on “fabricated accusations.”

 

 

Consumers are being encouraged to check their pantry shelves for packages of a Nestle Toll House product involved in a recall. Nestle is recalling two batches of their Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough “break and bake” Bar products. The products produced on April 24th and 25th could contain the presence of wood fragments. Specific batch codes can be found on the FDA’s website.

 

Today is Tuesday, August 15th, the 227th day of the year.

August 15 in history…

 

…In 1911, Proctor and Gamble Company introduced Crisco shortening.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1914, the Panama Canal opened for traffic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1939, MGM’s “The Wizard of Oz” opened at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1948, CBS Television presented the first nightly news broadcast. Douglas Edwards was the anchorman.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1969, The Woodstock Music and Arts Fair opened in upstate New York.

 

 

 

 

…In 1971, former President Richard Nixon announced a 90-day freeze on wages, prices, and rents to help fight inflation.

 

 

 

 

…In 1995, the popular song “Macarena” by Los Del Rio was released in the U.S.

 

 

 

 

…In 1998, Apple launched the first iMac computer.

A parade of sports and entertainment celebrities made the annual pilgrimage to Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia to raise money for charity. Yesterday was the 36^th Annual Jim Kelly Celebrity Classic that brought football and entertainment legends to the links including a host of iconic Buffalo Bills players. The Buffalo News says the event brought in nearly $7 million in donations for the Kelly for Kids charity and other western New York charities.

—

Nearly 800 pounds of butter are arriving at the New York State Fair in Syracuse.  According to the American Dairy Association, the butter will be used to create the 55th annual butter sculpture at the fair, which helps to spotlight farmers.  The design phase of the butter sculpture starts months in advance.  The unveiling of the sculpture takes place next Tuesday.

—

Nurses and officials with Rochester Regional Health will meet again on Thursday to try and hammer out a new labor agreement. Tentative deals have already been reached on issues such as dress code and employee classification. Nurses recently went on a two-day strike, but temporary workers were brought in so patient care wasn’t affected.

—

The American Red Cross has rolled out its latest initiative as it tries to boost blood donations. Anyone who decides to donate through the rest of this month will get a $10 e-gift card to a movie merchant of their choice. Summer is usually the time of year where donations drop, which makes it harder for people who need blood to receive it. To schedule an appointment, go to redcrossblood.org.

—

An audit from the state comptroller’s office says the state needs to make improvements in its state parks for people with disabilities.

The audit says the parks meet the minimum standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act, but more can be done. Out of the 40 parks that were reviewed, about two-thirds can be improved. Some parks have inaccessible entrances and bathrooms, and some have limited parking for those with disabilities. The audit did applaud some ways the parks have improved accessibility, including the Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park.

—

The New York State Department of Labor is launching a new service to help businesses find skilled job candidates. The enhanced Virtual Career Center allows businesses to find qualified candidates with specific skills, and also allows employers to post jobs and communicate directly with job candidates.

The free platform was initially launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to connect unemployed New Yorkers with job opportunities. The state says more than 80,000 job seekers have signed up to use this online resource.

 

FROM THE GENESEE COUNTY SHERIFF: 35-year-old Brian Tracy of Stafford has been arrested. He’s charged with criminal contempt, criminal mischief, harassment with physical contact and endangering the welfare of a child. It’s alleged that Tracy got out of his car during a custody exchange and struck the hand of an individual, causing her phone to break in front of their two daughters. Tracy was transported to Genesee County Jail and held pending his CAP Court arraignment. ALSO: 30-year-old Skylair Blumer, and 35-year-old Alex Stockschlaeder, both of Attica, were arrested and charged with conspiracy and grand larceny. It’s alleged that both stole $4500 from the victims after agreeing to do work for them. Stockschlaeder and Blumer were held at the Genesee County Jail pending a CAP Court arraignment. ALSO: 53-year-old Steven Barraco of Batavia has been charged with harassment. He was arrested following investigation into an incident during which it’s alleged Barraco intentionally shoved the throat of an individual. He was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held pending a CAP Court arraignment.  ALSO: 49-year-old Jason Babbitt of Pavilion was arrested and charged with aggravated harassment. It’s alleged that late in July, Babbitt contacted the Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center by phone numerous times late, even after being instructed to stop. Babbitt was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled for Batavia City Court on August 29th.

CITY OF BATAVIA POLICE BLOTTER:

 

1. On 8/4/2023, Joel D Prouty (age 37) of Batavia, was arrested for Strangulation 2nd and Assault 3rd. It’s alleged that Prouty struck the victim in the face and strangled her, during a disturbance. When Police arrived on scene, Prouty jumped out of a second story window and fled on foot. Police were unable to locate him that day. On 8/4, Patrols were called back to the same address, for another disturbance between Prouty and the same victim. When Officers attempted to take him into custody, Prouty allegedly fought with them. He was additionally charged with Resisting Arrest and Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and held without bail.

 

 

2. On 8/3/2023, Richard A Demmer (age 30) of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant, from Batavia City Court. Demmer was initially arrested on 5/29/2023, after he allegedly attempted to rob the 7-Eleven, on East Main St. A warrant was issued on 7/12/2023, after Demmer allegedly failed to appear for a court appearance. He was arrested on that warrant on 7/13/2023. Another warrant was issued on 7/27/2023, after he again allegedly failed to appear in court. Demmer was located by Batavia Police on 8/3 and arrested. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $10,000 cash bail, $20,000 bond, and $40,000 partially secured bond.

 

3. On 7/29/2023, Crystal A Mounts (age 46) of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant, from Batavia City Court. Mounts was initially arrested on 4/9/2022, after allegedly stealing property from a local church. A warrant was issued on 4/29/2022, after she allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arrested on that warrant on 5/14/2022. Another warrant was issued on 9/19/2022, after she again failed to appear in court. She was arrested on that warrant on 7/29/2023. She was arraigned in CAP Court and is due to appear in Batavia City Court at a later date.

4. On 7/30/2023, Lance D Beals (age 53) of Batavia, was arrested for Criminal Mischief 4th and Criminal Tampering 3rd. Beals was arrested after an investigation into an incident on East Main St, where he allegedly caused damaged to an apartment building. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on 8/14/2023.

5. On 8/9/2023, Kavyia A Spencer (age 24) of Batavia, was arrested for Petit Larceny. Spencer was arrested after an investigation into an employee theft from Kwik Fill on Jackson St. It’s alleged that she stole merchandise from the store, on two separate occasions. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on 8/22/2023.

6. On 8/9/2023, Patricia M Anderson (age 38) of Batavia, was arrested on an arrest warrant from Batavia City Court. Anderson was initially arrested on 4/9/2023, after allegedly stealing merchandise from 7-Eleven on East Main St. A warrant was issued after Anderson allegedly failed to appear in court. Anderson was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on her own recognizance. She is due back in court at a later date.

7. On 8/8/2023, Edmund J Sobresky (age 54) of Batavia, was arrested for DWAI Drugs. Sobresky’s arrest is the result of a traffic stop on 4/11/2023, where he was found to have been operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on 8/16/2023.

8. On 8/6/2023, Patricia A McCarthy (age 29) of Batavia, was arrested for Harassment 2nd and Public Lewdness. McCarthy was arrested after Police responded to Dellinger Ave, for the report of two people fighting. It’s alleged that McCarthy engaged in a fight with another person. During the fight, McCarthy became disrobed. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on 8/15/2023.

 

As reported by John Vazquez this morning: You didn’t win the Mega Millions jackpot, but New York State can claim a win. Mega Millions did not have a winner for over 30 drawings, growing the jackpot to its largest ever, $1.602 billion, won on Aug. 8. The state’s Gaming Commission says New Yorkers spent around $168 million on tickets during that run, generating nearly $60 million for K-12 public schools across the state. Retailers combined earned just over $10 million in commissions from selling tickets.

 

Another negotiating session has been set for this week between nurses and officials with Rochester Regional Health. Both sides will have discussions on Thursday as they look to hammer out a new labor agreement. Tentative deals have already been reached on issues such as dress code and employee classification. Nurses recently went on a two-day strike, but temporary workers were brought in so patient care wasn’t affected.

 

Another week, another increase in gas prices; according to Triple A today, the average national cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.85. The statewide average price is $3.92. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.86; that’s up 3 cents from a week ago; 26 cents from a month ago; but 54 cents cheaper than it was a year ago today.

 

The start of classes is a few weeks away, and the state Division of Consumer Protection is offering ways to help parents avoid back to school shopping scams. It’s recommended people protect their identities when shopping online by making sure purchases are made using a secure Internet connection. Also, beware of fake websites and ads, especially ones that appear to be offering large discounts on items. And, use a credit card if possible to buy things since they offer the most protection against fraud.

 

The American Red Cross has rolled out its latest initiative as it tries to boost blood donations. Anyone who decides to donate through the rest of this month will get a $10 e-gift card to a movie merchant of their choice. Summer is usually the time of year where donations drop, which makes it harder for people who need blood to receive it. The next blood drive in Batavia is Friday, September 1 at the Social Services Building, 5130 E ast Main Street Road from 9:00am until 3:00pm. To schedule an appointment, go to redcrossblood.org.

 

Erie County is putting a halt on the arrival of additional migrants following two arrests. Last week, 22-year-old asylum seeker Kindu Jeancy was charged for allegedly trying to sexually abuse a woman at the Best Western in Cheektowaga. An asylum seeker from Venezuela was also recently arrested for allegedly raping a woman at another hotel in the area. County Executive Mark Poloncarz says the National Guard will now be sent to hotels that host migrants.

 

The Buffalo Bills say there were no major traffic or parking issues reported before or after the team’s preseason game over the weekend. There are concerns about limited parking and some travel delays due to the construction of a new stadium near Highmark Stadium, which is where the team plays its home games. The Bills won’t be playing again in Orchard Park until the second week of the regular season against the Las Vegas Raiders. It is recommended people try and arrive early to that game if possible. (13WHAM photo)

 

ELSEWHERE…

 

The family of Gilgo Beach murder suspect Rex Heuermann is exploring legal action for the way investigators allegedly left their New York home. The attorney representing Heuermann’s two children says the home is in shambles after the police search, adding that’s why the family spends so much time outside. Heuermann is facing three murder charges in connection to the death of young sex workers.

 

A revolver from Elvis Presley’s firearms collection is going up for auction. The Rock Island Auction Company will auction the late King of Rock n’ Roll’s Smith & Wesson Model 53 revolver on August 26th. The special order Russell Smith-signed “master engraved” revolver, originally manufactured in 1974, is inlaid with gold and silver. The auction house expects the pistol to fetch $60,000 to $90,000.

 

The Writers Guild of America and Hollywood studios met at the bargaining table Friday. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers presented a counterproposal to the W-G-A, but details of the counter were not disclosed. Both sides have recessed their talks for now. In a message to its members, the W-G-A said they would evaluate the offer and return with a response next week.

 

 

Today is Monday, August 14th, the 226th day of the year.

 

August 14 in history…

…In 1935, the Social Security Act was signed by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

 

 

 

 

…In 1945, former President Harry S. Truman announced that Japan had surrendered to the Allies. The surrender signaled the end to fighting in World War Two.

 

 

 

…In 1953, David Mullany, Sr. invented the wiffle ball for his 13-year-old son.

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1962, The Dick Van Dyke Show director John Rich filmed a new opening for the show’s second season – you guessed it, the scene in which ‘Rob’ stumbles over the ottoman and falls flat on his back. Actually, Dick and company also filmed an alternate version of the scene; one in which ‘Rob’ doesn’t fall, but instead sidesteps the ottoman. I guess this makes today’s anniversary a double-header.

 

 

…In 1985, Michael Jackson won a bid over Yoko Ono and Paul McCartney to secure the ATV Music Publishing catalog, and was described by industry experts as one of the largest music acquisitions ever by an individual. At $47.5 million Jackson gained the rights to 40,000 song copyrights, including compositions by: Little Richard, the Pointer Sisters, Pat Benatar, the Pretenders, and nearly all the songs written by the Beatles. McCartney had been negotiating with Yoko Ono, who had decided to withdraw her side of the deal because of “astrological” reasons. Scroll to the bottom of this page for the detailed story of how this transaction effected what had previously been a friendly relationship between McCartney and Jackson.

 

 

…In 1997, Timothy McVeigh was sentenced to death for the 1995 bombing of Oklahoma City’s Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The blast killed 168 people.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1999, tickets for the Backstreet Boys North American tour sold out in just one day, generating an estimated $30 million.

 

 

 

MORE ABOUT HOW THE SALE OF THE BEATLE’S MUSIC CATALOG IMPACTED THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PAUL AND MICHAEL:

Music brought Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson together, and it also tore them apart. They recorded several duets in the ’80s, among them the chart-topping “Say Say Say,” but then saw a blossoming friendship fractured when Jackson – in what was arguably one of the shrewdest business moves ever made – outbid McCartney for the publishing rights to Beatles catalog in 1985.
They originally met in the ’70s after McCartney wrote a song called “Girlfriend” specifically for Jackson. The track was initially released as part of Wings’ 1978 album London Town, and then on Jackson’s 1979 project Off The Wall. Paul McCartney subsequently appeared on “The Girl is Mine” from Jackson’s Thriller in 1982, and Michael Jackson in turn was part of two tracks from McCartney’s Pipes of Peace in 1983, “The Man” and “Say Say Say.”

At some point during this period, McCartney was said to have discussed a newfound interest in music publishing. (McCartney’s most memorable purchase to that point was the back catalog of Buddy Holly.) Jackson was apparently fascinated by this money-making opportunity, and asked attorney John Branca to inquire about other investments.
“Paul and I had both learned the hard way about business,” Jackson wrote in his 1988 autobiography Moonwalk, “and the importance of publishing and royalties and the dignity of songwriting.”
Indeed, though Paul McCartney had a hand in composing some of the most revered music of all time, ownership of much of the Beatles catalog resided with Northern Songs – a company formed by McCartney and John Lennon in conjunction with late Beatles manager Brian Epstein and publisher Dick James. Following Epstein’s death in 1967, Lennon and McCartney reportedly tried to re-negotiate their publishing agreement with James, but were unsuccessful. James subsequently sold the Beatles catalog to ATV, which then ended up in the hands of Robert Holmes a Court – a billionaire Australian corporate raider who appeared to be willing to unload it, for a price.

Jackson told John Branca to obtain the catalog, no matter the cost. Branca was said to have checked in with McCartney and Lennon’s widow Yoko Ono, who had been rumored to be considering a joint offer for what totalled some 250 original compositions. They reportedly told Branca that they would not be bidding, individually or collectively. In late 1984, Jackson submitted an offer for ATV of $46 million.

Holmes a Court’s team initially believed Jackson was bidding as a front for Paul McCartney, given their public ties. “It seems Paul’s people once told one of the ATV officers that their client was interested in buying the copyrights, but that he didn’t want to go through lengthy negotiations,” a source told the Los Angeles Times. “They said, in effect, ‘You go out and get your best offer and we’ll pay 10 percent more.’ So, when Michael shows up, they know he is a friend of Paul’s and they suspect his bid is just a way for Paul to avoid paying the extra 10 percent. It took a long time to convince them that Michael was acting on his own.” Everything, in fact, took a long time. Negotiations for the catalog moved at a snail’s pace, as the parties debated on the issues of price, warranties and the structure of the deal. Sensing they were close to an agreement in April 1985, Branca arranged a face-to-face meeting with Holmes a Court – only to endure another setback. Holmes a Court had apparently found numerous provisions of the contract unacceptable. Branca suggested, at that point, that Michael Jackson consider withdrawing his offer – and the pop star reluctantly agreed. It was only when John Branca returned to the table, ready to scuttle the deal, which Holmes a Court preliminarily agreed to terms.

A follow up meeting, however, found the two teams returning to issues that had previously seemed resolved – and Jackson again threatened to walk. In May 1985, Holmes a Court reportedly sent Branca a letter, acknowledging their negotiations had gotten off course. As a good-faith gesture, he said he would view Jackson as the exclusive bidder for 30 days, but would entertain other bidders after that. Branca ignored the letter for three weeks, then responded by reiterating that Michael Jackson had already made his final offer.
Once again, the deal seemed dead. Holmes a Court reportedly entertained a tentative $50-million deal with another party, before reaching out to Jackson yet again. Following concessions made by both sides, Jackson agreed to increase his $46-million offer by $1.5 million, and on Aug. 14, 1985, the sale was finalized.
Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson would never work together again. “I think it’s dodgy to do something like that,” McCartney later admitted. “To be someone’s friend, and then buy the rug they’re standing on.”

 

Ten years later, Michael Jackson agreed to merge ATV with Sony’s music-publishing business, earning a whopping $95 million. As personal debts mounted into the 2000s, however, Jackson ended up borrowing as much as $200 million against the catalog, in an agreement that would pay back Sony via future earnings.

Michael Jackson’s 2009 death led to new headlines involving the Beatles catalog, sparked by a rumor that Jackson intended to will the song rights back to McCartney. Paul McCartney said there was never any such arrangement. “Some time ago, the media came up with the idea that Michael Jackson was going to leave his share in the Beatles’ songs to me in his will,” McCartney said. “[It] was completely made up. The report is that I am devastated to find that he didn’t leave the songs to me. This is completely untrue. I had not thought for one minute that the original report [about the will] was true, and therefore the report that I’m devastated is also totally false.”

McCartney admitted that he remained hurt over the acquisition, but spoke highly of Jackson nevertheless – calling him a “massively talented boy-man with a gentle soul. I feel privileged to have hung out and worked with Michael.” Jackson’s passing, however, didn’t end the saga. Five years later, a massive hack of Sony’s private emails was made public, revealing that company executives had considered selling the Beatles songs back to McCartney. “Paul,” a source confirmed in late 2014, “will want to buy the catalog.”

 

 

Erie County is putting a pause on accepting more asylum seekers after an arrest of an asylum seeker in Cheektowaga Friday. The asylum seeker, Kindu Jeancy, 22, faces sexual abuse and unlawful imprisonment charges after he allegedly tried to touch a woman in a sexual manner. The woman is from an agency working with asylum seekers.

Last week, another asylum seeker was arrested and is facing rape charges after an incident at a hotel on Genesee Street in Cheektowaga.

The national guard will be stationed at all hotels housing asylum seekers

—

Pet owners – be aware that if your furry friend needs emergency care, the emergency vet office in Rochester is reducing its hours and eliminating overnight care. Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Services in Brighton will now open at 8 a.m. and will close at 10 p.m. Your best bet will be one of three 24-hour emergency pet care centers in the Buffalo area.

—

It was curtain up for the Batavia Players new home. The troupe christened their new Main St. 56 Theatre in the Batavia City Centre on Friday, with the opening of Cry Baby, The Musical. According to our news partner, the Batavian, while there is still work to be done, the transformation of the former medical office to a theatre cost more than $1 million. The Players are still raising the $265,000 needed to finish the work. Donations can be made at their website, bataviaplayers.org.

—

The East Pembroke Fire District could be the first fire department in Genesee County to offer retirement benefits for its volunteers. According to The Batavian, voters in the district will make that decision on August 29. If approved, firefighters would need to accumulate enough points through service to qualify, a goal that Fire District President James Gayton would be easy to accomplish. He said offering the retirement benefit would be cheaper for taxpayers than hiring paid firefighters and could be used as a recruiting tool.

—

You didn’t win the Mega Millions jackpot, but New York State can claim a win. Mega Millions did not have a winner for over 30 drawings, growing the jackpot to its largest ever, $1.602 billion, won on Aug. 8. The state’s Gaming Commission says New Yorkers spent around $168 million on tickets during that run, generating nearly $60 million for K-12 public schools across the state. Retailers combined earned just over $10 million in commissions from selling tickets.

A Canadian Truck driver has been arrested after almost 400 kilograms of cocaine was found in his truck near the border.  37 year old Ahmed El Kady of Hamilton, Ontario was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, and conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine of $10,000,000.  Investigators say they were onto Kady from the border crossing in Michigan and his picking up the trailer in Detroit.  They surveilled him and the truck as it made many stops in Detroit, through Ohio, and then in Buffalo and Niagara Falls.  Investigators were able to execute a warrant on the truck in Niagara Falls and found 386 kilos of cocaine and arrested Kady. 

If you haven’t driven over I90 on Oak street in Batavia for a while you may be surprised to see a new traffic light on the north side.  This is the new light for Federal Drive, although the new traffic sign says Federal rd. which may be a typo.  As of now the light is flashing yellow but the Department of Transportation says it will soon be switching to a 3 color stoplight.  So be prepared to stop when you cross over the bridge.

The Genesee County Sheriffs Office is proud to announce the graduation of the most recent batch from the Teen Academy.  6 teenagers participated in and graduated from the program held at GCC from July 17th through 21st.  They joined deputies in fulfilling different roles in the law enforcement system.  The Fourth annual academy was made possible with the support of Genesee County STOP DWI, the Genesee County Legislature, and Genesee Community College.

Getting pot rolled out at dispensaries is on hold again.  New cannabis retail licenses will not be awarded in New York State after a judge didn’t rule on a previous injunction on Friday.  A group of four disabled veterans are suing the Cannabis Control Board and Office of Cannabis Management over how the licenses are being handled.  They say they should have been served first under the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act but the NYS system prioritizes people who have had a previous marijuana conviction and also gives preference to certain racial groups.  The judge should issue a ruling in about 2 weeks.

Zoo keepers are concerned about a medical issue with one of the Giraffes at the Seneca Park Zoo and a procedure that may be just as dangerous.  Kipenzi, a 6-year-old female giraffe at the Seneca Park Zoo, is set to undergo a high-risk procedure next week to biopsy and radiograph a growth on her jaw.  The zoo said the growth, which may be a tumor, has been growing in size and is impacting her ability to eat.  Giraffe experts from across the country have teamed up to help treat Kipenzi. Several veterinarians will be helping perform the procedure, which requires high-risk anesthesia, Tuesday morning.

53-year-old Joseph Johnson of Mumford has been arrested for robbery and harassment following an incident on Park Road in Batavia. It’s alleged he forcibly took property from an elderly victim at the Batavia Downs Casino. Johnson was charged and held pending an arraignment in CAP Court.

 

 

A Batavia woman has died in a crash and the investigation continues. Around 4:00 yesterday afternoon, two cars collided on Route 5 in Pembroke. Police determined that the 2007 Ford Freestyle driven by 34-year-old Nikki Stonebraker had crossed the centerline at a high rate of speed and struck a 2013 Dodge Caravan. The driver and passenger of the Dodge were transported to Erie County Medical Center with severe injuries. Nikki Stonebraker was pronounced dead at the scene.

 

Monroe County Deputies are looking for help finding a missing teen. Ayden Cuvelier was last seen this past Tuesday night, around 10 p.m., in Hilton. The 15-year-old is described as five-foot-six, roughly 120-pounds, with brown hair, and was last seen wearing a gray hoodie with light-colored skinny jeans. Anyone with any information is asked to call the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

 

 

 

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is looking for help finding missing 55-year-old Nicholas Ascione. According to reports, Ascione, U.S. Military veteran, was last seen near his home on Embury Road in Penfield on Wednesday, August 2nd. A friend told police that Ascione left his dog with her and that his son had texted her after about two days, asking if she had heard from him. Ascione was driving a blue Ford Bronco with New York license plate LAA-9847 that may have been spotted early yesterday morning at a McDonald’s on Monroe Avenue.

 

COVID-19 is on the rise in New York State. Nearly 800 people tested positive last month, the highest number since July. The newest COVID-19 variant is a member of the Omicron family. While not too different from other variants, experts say it is more contagious. With both the fall and school season approaching, experts say to expect a rise in respiratory illnesses.

 

Fisher-Price has unveiled the 2023 edition of its Buffalo Bills “Little People” figurine set. The toy maker is once again teaming up with Wegmans stores across Upstate New York to sell the toys. Starting today, fans can purchase the Buffalo Bills Little People Collector set at Wegmans stores throughout our region. This year’s set includes quarterback Josh Allen, tight end Dawson Knox, linebacker Von Miller and a Bills “Super Fan.” Fisher-Price will donate $10 of each set, up to $1 million, when purchased at Wegmans stores, to The Children’s Hospital of Buffalo Foundation providing philanthropic support to John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital.

 

Target is recalling over 2 million scented candles that might shatter while burning. The recall issued Thursday affects 5.5 ounce one-wick candles and 20 ounce 3-wick candles sold in glass jars. Target says it has received 19 reports of the jars shattering while the wick is burning. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says anyone who bought one of the candles should stop using it and return it to Target for a full refund.

 

 

 

 

Two Buffalo Bills star players are out for the preseason opener tomorrow. Coach Sean McDermott said yesterday that quarterback Josh Allen and wide receiver Stefon Diggs have been ruled out. Safety Damar Hamlin’s status also remains uncertain. The Bills’ second preseason game will be August 19th against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

 

ELSEWHERE…

He may be retired, but that didn’t stop a local firefighter from helping a neighbor in trouble early yesterday morning. East Rochester Fire Chief James Diego says the retiree was walking down Fairport Road around 8:30 a.m., noticed smoke coming from the garage and notified the homeowner. Together, the two closed the garage door and were able to stop the fire from spreading to the home. The department says they are still looking into the cause of the fire.

 

 

 

Researchers say a skull dating back 300,000 years might point to a new branch on the human family tree. The skull found in eastern China in 2015 is unlike another other pre-modern human fossil ever found. The researchers from China, Spain, and the United Kingdom say the jaw in the skull doesn’t fit any existing groups. They say it has features of both pre-modern and modern humans. More details are available by scrolling to the bottom of today’s News Brief page.

 

A new book says golfer Phil Mickelson bet more than a billion dollars on sports over three decades, and lost a $100 million. CNBC says a new book from gambler Billy Waters claims he had a sports betting partnership with Mickelson, and at one point the golfer asked to bet $400,000 on the U.S. to win the 2012 Ryder Cup that he was playing in, though he was talked out of it. Waters was convicted of insider trading in 2017, but former President Trump commuted his prison sentence. Additional details are available at the bottom of today’s News Brief page.

President Biden is calling on Congress for $24 billion for Ukraine. But some Congressional Republicans have been hesitant about putting any more money toward Ukraine’s efforts as the war continues with no signs of stopping soon. A CNN poll released last week found 55% of Americans believed Congress should not authorize additional funding.

 

The actor who voiced one of Hank Hill’s buddies on the animated series “King of the Hill” has died. Johnny Hardwick provided the voice of Dale Gribble, who was known for his obsession with conspiracy theories. The show was set in the fictional town of Arlen, Texas, and Hardwick was a native Texan. Hardwick died Tuesday at his home in Austin. He was 64.

 

 

Today is Friday, August 11th, the 223rd day of the year.

August 11 in history…

…In 1909, the “Arapahoe” became one of the first ships to use the S-O-S distress signal. S-O-S remains the standard international distress signal for ships and airplanes.

 

 

 

…In 1934, the first federal prisoners arrived at Alcatraz.

 

 

 

 

 

 

… In 1951, WCBS Television in New York City broadcast the first baseball doubleheader in color. Here are the details: The Boston Braves and Brooklyn Dodgers became the first two teams to play a baseball game that was broadcast in color. The second game of the Braves-Dodgers doubleheader at Ebbetts Field was broadcast in color on WCBS in New York City with the Braves winning, 8-4. The Braves lost the first game of the doubleheader 8-1. In the Braves win, second baseman Sibby Sisti and left fielder Sid Gordon both hit home runs. Braves pitcher Max Surkont pitched nine innings and allowed nine hits and two home runs with five walks and five strikeouts. The Braves played in Boston from 1871-1952 before the team moved to Milwaukee to become the Milwaukee Braves. (Associated Press photo, with this caption: “Brooklyn Dodgers Jackie Robinson steals home plate successfully as Boston Braves’ catcher Bill Salkeld is thrown off-balance on pitcher Bill Voiselle’s throw to the plate during the fifth inning of a Boston-Brooklyn game at Ebbets Field in New York on August 22, 1948. Third baseman Billy Cox, who was at bat, watches Jackie slide. The umpire is Jocko Conlan. The Braves won 4-3.”

 

…In 1964, The Beatles’ film “A Hard Day’s Night” opened in the United States.

 

 

 

 

…In 1968, The Beatles launched their new record label, Apple Records.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1989, the Voyager 2 Spacecraft discovered two partial rings of the planet Neptune.

 

 

 

 

 

…In 1991, the cartoons “Doug,” “Ren and Stimpy,” and “Rugrats” debuted on the Nickelodeon cable television channel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

…In 2014, actor Robin Williams committed suicide at the age of 63. If you’re experiencing ideation of self-harm, please call 9-8-8 immediately.

 

 

 

 

 

 

MORE ABOUT THE SKULL FOUND IN CHINA:

The discovery of a huge fossilized skull that was wrapped up and hidden in a Chinese well nearly 90 years ago has forced scientists to rewrite the story of human evolution. Analysis of the remains has revealed a new branch of the human family tree that points to a previously unknown sister group more closely related to modern humans than the Neanderthals, Sample says in his story published on June 25.

(Neanderthals or Neandertals are an extinct species or subspecies of archaic humans who lived in Eurasia until about 40,000 years ago. Neanderthals are known from numerous fossils, especially from after 130,000 years ago).

The extraordinary fossil has been named a new human species, Homo Longi or “Dragon man”, by Chinese researchers, although other experts are more cautious about the designation. “I think this is one of the most important finds of the past 50 years,” said Professor Chris Stringer, research leader at the Natural History Museum in London, who worked on the project. “It’s a wonderfully preserved fossil.”
The skull appears to have a remarkable back story. According to the researchers, it was originally found in 1933 by Chinese laborers building a bridge over the Songhua River in Harbin, in China’s northernmost province, Heilongjiang, during the Japanese occupation. To keep the skull from falling into Japanese hands it was wrapped and hidden in an abandoned well, resurfacing only in 2018 after the man who hid it told his grandson about it shortly before he died. An international team led by Prof Qiang Ji at the Hebei Geo University in China drew on geochemical techniques to narrow down when the skull came to rest in Harbin, dating the bones to at least 146,000 years old. The skull has a unique combination of primitive and more modern features, with the face, in particular, more closely resembling Homo sapiens. One huge molar remains.

 

MORE ABOUT THE PHIL MICKELSON GAMBLING STORY:

Phil Mickelson has denied an allegation made by Billy Walters that Lefty attempted to place a $400,000 wager on the U.S. team to win the 2012 Ryder Cup at Medina Country Club. An excerpt published by Golf Digest from Walters’ “Gambler: Secrets from a Life at Risk” outlines Mickelson’s betting habits and includes the allegation that Mickelson made a wager on the team event of which he was a participant.
After first choosing to avoid reporters at LIV Golf’s event at Trump National Bedminster, Mickelson broke his silence and pleaded his innocence in the matter.

“I never bet on the Ryder Cup,” Mickelson wrote in a statement. “While it is well known that I always enjoy a friendly wager on the course, I would never undermine the integrity of the game. I have also been very open about my gambling addiction. I have previously conveyed my remorse, took responsibility, have gotten help, have been fully committed to therapy that has positively impacted me and I feel good about where I am now.”
The excerpt claims Walters and Mickelson entered a sports wagering partnership in May 2008 with Mickelson placing bets through various offshore accounts. The six-time major champion would wager on baseball, football and basketball at both the professional and college levels. However, Walters alleges Mickelson wanted to place a hefty sum in September 2012 for the Ryder Cup while Mickelson was a member of the U.S. team:
In late September 2012, Phil called me from Medina Country Club just outside Chicago, site of the 39th Ryder Cup matches between the United States and Europe. He was feelin