Doug Thompson
August 12, 2022 
Cassandra Elmore, the Batavia woman accused of allowing her dog access to narcotics, leading to emergency veterinarian treatment for overdoses on three separate occasions, was a no-show in City Court yesterday. It was suggested by one of her friends who called the court about four hours earlier, that Elmore might be in the hospital. However, City Court Judge Thomas Burns had no proof that the claim was true, so he has issued a warrant for her arrest. Elmore faces three counts of injuring an animal under New York’s Agriculture and Markets Law, Section 353.
Experts still don’t know what has caused cracks to appear on the property at 445 Scribner Road in Pembroke, which forced a family from their home. The cracks were first noticed last Sunday by the homeowner, Gene Nati, and the initial thought was that a sinkhole had formed but geologists have now ruled that out. Instead, they’re classifying it as a catastrophic movement of the earth. The last time any shift or movement there was noticed occurred this past Monday and Tuesday. Monitoring equipment will be installed in a well to check water levels in the affected area and a seismograph will be placed to monitor if the ground is still moving. As of last night, Nati’s home is still standing and Scribner Road remains closed.
Starting tomorrow, New Yorkers will be able to cast their ballots in primary races for Congress and state Senate. That’s because early voting is going to begin and is scheduled to run through Sunday, August 21st. In Genesee County, the only early voting location is at the ARC Community Center at 38 Woodrow Road in Batavia. The hours vary each day so check the Genesee County Board of Elections page for early voting hours. Primary Day is Tuesday, August 23.
You may already have heard, at $3.98, the national average price for a gallon of gas has now dropped to under $4, for the first time since March. The New York State average is $4.38 (down 5 cents since Monday, and 11 cents since last week). Average prices for the four-county GLOW Region remain above the state average, and Orleans County – with an average price of $4.66 – is among the highest in New York State. Only New York County, at $4.80 per gallon, and Delaware County, at $4.67 per gallon, was higher than Orleans County. The lowest prices in New York were found in Suffolk County, $4.15 per gallon. In Batavia, Triple A tells us the average price per gallon this morning is $4.42, down a nickel since last week and 30 cents from a month ago.
The Buffalo Bills will continue their preparation for the upcoming season when they host a preseason game tomorrow afternoon. The Bills are going to be taking on the Indianapolis Colts at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. The Bills are coming off of a season that saw them win another AFC East title but once again fall to the Kansas City Chiefs in the playoffs. Kickoff for tomorrow afternoon’s contest is scheduled for 4:00.
Buffalo SkyRide – file photo
Bicyclists from around the region will be gathering this weekend to take part in the Buffalo SkyRide. The event is taking place this Sunday and the state Department of Transportation says the Buffalo Skyway is going to be closed down from 6:00am until noon that day. There are going to be detours posted in the area to help get drivers to their destinations. The ride will happen rain or shine and more information can be found online by visiting skyridebuffalo.org.
Both the FAA and Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office are looking into a plane crash that left two people injured. According to WKBW, the individuals onboard the aircraft were conducting training exercises last night when the plane went down in a wooded area near Baker Street Extension in the town of Harmony. The victims were treated at the scene and taken to a hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania. There’s no word on their conditions.
Calvin Clemons
A Buffalo man could be spending the rest of his life behind bars after admitting his role in two separate murders. Prosecutors say 19-year-old Calvin Clemons shot and killed 17-year-old Feliz Aguirre back in December 2020 while the victim was sitting in a car on Liddell Street. The second deadly shooting happened in March 2021 when Clemons killed 20-year-old Trenten Sink during a robbery. Clemons is scheduled to be sentenced in October and is currently behind bars without bail.
The New York State Division of Consumer Protection is sharing tips for college students to keep in mind before classes begin. The agency says they need to be aware of fake grants, scholarships, and loans and that the only paperwork required to file for financial aid is the free FAFSA form that’s online. Students should also keep an eye out for phony websites that claim to offer large discounts on textbooks, since those books often don’t get delivered which means the student loses their money. It’s also strongly recommended that students keep their personal information private so it doesn’t end up in the wrong hands.
The City of Batavia Water Department is shutting down water mains tomorrow in the area of Oak Street and Richmond Avenue (due to the Richmond Avenue Water Line Project). The streets with possible water interruptions will be from, North of Richmond Ave on Oak Street, Richmond Ave from Oak Street to State Street, Verona Ave from Richmond Ave to Hillcrest Street, all of Buxton Ave, Genesee Street, and New York Place. Additionally, new water main valves will be installed on Prospect Ave and State Street. During valve installations, water will be shut down on Prospect Ave from Richmond Ave to Oak Street and on the West side of Oak Street from Prospect Ave to the Ellicott Ave and Main Street intersection, along with an area on State Street from the Richmond Ave intersection to just South of Park Avenue. The length of time the water will be off is unknown. As is typically the case, when water service is restored it may be discolored. Please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.
A 26-year-old Buffalo man has been charged after an unusual incident in which he was found roadside. On Saturday, passersby in Elba discovered Terrance Dandridge II (of Bricsoe Avenue) in the area of Lockport Road and Route 98. Genesee County sheriff’s deputies tell us that Dandridge reported he had been kidnapped from his residence, driven to the location, and left tied up in his vehicle, before escaping and being discovered near the highway. Dandridge suffered no apparent injury but was taken to a hospital for medical evaluation. Investigation revealed the incident did not occur as reported by him. He was charged with third-degree falsely reporting an incident and is to appear August 24 in Elba Town Court.
Residents in the Town of Batavia may experience low water pressure through tomorrow as the town continues to make repairs and upgrades to the Ellicott Street Water Booster Station. Once the work is completed, the town says water pressure will be restored to normal.
The controversial ReAwaken America Tour is scheduled to come to Batavia Friday and Saturday, and protesters again made their feelings known about the upcoming event. Protesters were outside Cornerstone Church on Sunday, which is hosting the event after the original location in Rochester declined to host after public backlash. Protesters are concerned with the tour’s ideology and that nearly 3,500 people are expected for the event. Representatives of the Cornerstone Church have said they plan to move forward with the event, as scheduled.
Dive teams are expected to be back in the water at Canandaigua Lake today as the search for a missing man resumes. Officials say the man didn’t have a flotation device on when he jumped into the lake Friday in the area of LeTourneau Christian Camp in Rushville. The Ontario County Sheriff’s Office tells the Democrat and Chronicle the search couldn’t move forward until today because the department was waiting for special dive equipment to arrive. So far, the name of the man hasn’t been released.
The New York State Fair is opening soon, and Amtrak will be making it easier for people to attend. The rail company is offering direct service to the fairgrounds in Syracuse. Officials say by deciding to take the train, folks will be able to avoid things like parking fees, traffic and tolls and save money on gas. Tickets are available right now and can be purchased online at 
The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors approved incentives for a $3.72 million financial investment by Ivy Village Corp. that would create 20 units of market-rate senior housing in the village of Le Roy. Ivy Village Corp. plans to build market rate residential units in three phases with each phase calling for the construction of 10 duplex residences. The development is located on 16 acres off Lake Street with easy access to village amenities and is a twenty-minute drive to downtown Rochester. The GCEDC board also granted mortgage, property and sales tax incentives totaling about $805,000.
The Genesee County Health Department will be hosting a free drive-thru anti-rabies immunization clinic on Thursday, August 11th from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Genesee County Fairgrounds. New York State Public Health Law requires all dogs, cats and domestic ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies after they reach the age of 4 months. Animals must also remain up-to-date on rabies vaccinations and owners can be fined up to $200 if they fail to get their pets vaccinated and keep them up to date. Vaccinations are free for dogs, cats, and ferrets, but voluntary donations are accepted. Animals must be at least 3 months old. Each animal must be leashed or crated and accompanied by an adult who can control the animal. Limit 4 pets per car please. For more information, call 344-2580 or click over to GOHealthNY.org
A free household hazardous waste collection has been set for September 17. The collection is open to Genesee, Wyoming and Livingston County residents. It will take place 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in Batavia and is by appointment only. Those interested may check 
Governor Hochul says progress is being made in the ongoing fight against gun violence. Since the start of the year, State Police have seized close to 800 firearms, which is an increase of 104-percent compared to the same time period in 2021. The governor says that statistic was boosted when a specialized Gun Trafficking Interdiction Unit carried out a months-long investigation that led to a large cache of firearms being seized and multiple arrests being made. Overall, more than 3100 gun seizures have been reported by all law enforcement agencies in the state.
A Buffalo man is in some serious legal trouble after he allegedly threatened to kill African American people at grocery stores around the city. The U.S. Attorney’s Office says days after the May 14th mass shooting at the Jefferson Avenue Tops that left 10 people dead and three others hurt, 24-year-old Rolik Walker created a Twitter account and posted messages claiming he and his associates were targeting four stores and were only looking to kill African Americans. Walker also tried to mask his online activity using a virtual private network. If convicted, he’s facing up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
New Yorkers who are looking to change the preferred gender on their license can now do it online. Officials say that in-person visits to the Department of Motor Vehicles are no longer required to make the change. The state introduced “X” as a gender marker for driver’s licenses, permits, and non-driver IDs earlier this year. DMV Commissioner Mark Schroeder says the online process is private and simple, adding one small letter can make a monumental impact on someone.
A Genesee County Grand Jury has indicted 35-year-old Lakeisha Gibson of Albion, accusing her of the crime of criminal possession of weapon (third degree, a class D felony), menacing (second degree, a class A misdemeanor), and three counts of endangering the welfare of a child after allegedly threatening to stab a person with a pair of scissors while in the presence of three children under 17 on April 14, 2022 in the City of Batavia. Gibson was previously convicted of the crime of attempted criminal mischief, a class B misdemeanor, on January 14, 2020. This conviction forms the basis for count one in the indictment.
Starting today, all in-person visits at both the Erie County Holding Center and Erie County Correctional facility are suspended. The sheriff’s office said last night that this change is due to a recent increase in COVID-19 cases. The suspension is temporary and is expected to only last through August 11th. Up until July 5th, in-person visits at both facilities weren’t allowed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Batavia Muckdogs started out strong in yesterday afternoon’s game against Amsterdam; they tied the series with a final score of 8-1, which forced game 3. In the end, the Amsterdam Mohawks were able to close out the series; they won, with a final score of 7-2.
State authorities have lifted a ban that had previously stopped state prison inmates from reading a book about the 1971 Attica Correctional Facility uprising; this, following a First Amendment lawsuit brought by its author. New York State officials, however, said they would continue to censor one small part of the Pulitzer-prize winning book for security reasons. A two-page map of Attica will be removed from copies sent into the prisons. {“Blood in the Water: The Attica Uprising of 1971”, by Heather Ann Thompson, a historian and professor at the University of Michigan – Published in 2016}
State Attorney General Letitia James says she’s doing her part to help crack down on those annoying robocalls many Empire State residents receive each day. She has joined a coalition of attorneys general to form a nationwide Anti-Robocall Litigation Taskforce, which will investigate and take legal action against the telecommunications companies who are responsible for enabling foreign robocalls. James believes that New Yorkers shouldn’t have to worry about being scammed every time they answer their phone. Scams can be reported by using a form that has been posted on the Office of the Attorney General’s website.
The Batavia Muckdogs lost the first game of the championship round series to Amsterdam 9-5 and travel back to Dwyer today. Game 2 is a must-win for Batavia to have a chance of winning the best of three. This afternoon players take the field at 4:30; if needed, game 3 starts at 7:30.
Amazon is offering to help its employees in the region pursue a higher education without them having to pay the large price of tuition. The retail giant says it’ll cover all the fees of hourly workers who decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree at SUNY Brockport. It’s part of Amazon’s more than one-billion-dollar investment towards upskilling 300-thousand of its workers by 2025. Anyone who is interested in applying can find out more information by visiting 
According to a state report, at 2.7%, Wyoming County had the lowest unemployment rate in the GLOW region, as of June 30. Genesee County’s unemployment rate was also low at 2.8 percent, with an estimated 900 people unemployed. That marked a 1.6 percent decrease compared to June 2021, when the rate was 4.4 percent with 1,300 people unemployed. Bronx County in the New York City area had the state’s highest unemployment rate at 8.4 percent.
The Genesee County Sheriffs Office tells us that reports of a massive brawl of up to 200 people at Six Flags Darien Lake were greatly exaggerated. While there were a few fights in the parking lot Sunday evening, it took no more than 45 minutes to clear out everyone involved and the Pitbull concert proceeded without any issue. Sheriffs from surrounding counties were called in for backup, which was noted to be typical under the circumstances. There were no injuries or major arrests.
The Muckdogs shutout the Utica Blue Sox for the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League (PGCBL) West Division championship last night at Dwyer; the final score was 6-0. That means, the Muckdogs have advanced to the championship round of a three-game series and are on the road to Amsterdam for the first game tonight. They’re back at Dwyer tomorrow for a 4:30 start and if necessary, game 3 will start at 7:30.
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles says a civil service exam for people who are interested in working for the agency is now available online. Applicants for Motor Vehicle Representative positions have until 11:59pm on Wednesday, August 31st to take the test. Anyone who wants to be considered for a Motor Vehicle Representative job must meet the minimum qualifications, which include having a high school diploma or a high school equivalency diploma and a year of customer service experience or 30 semester credit hours of college level courses. The starting annual salary for these positions is more than $37,000.
Family members of the people who were killed when Continental Flight 3407 crashed in Clarence Center over a decade ago have been honored in Washington, DC. Yesterday, the FAA dedicated a plaque to those relatives for their hard work to prevent another airline tragedy from happening. Following the February 12th, 2009 tragedy, family members of the victims pushed for things such as the creation of a pilot records database and also additional crewmember training. Those efforts led to legislation being passed in Congress and signed by former President Barack Obama.
The Batavia Muckdogs strengthened their hold on first place in the West Division with a win last night against the Auburn DoubleDays; final score was 6-3. Tonight they host Niagara with the game starting at 7:00.
New Yorkers are hoping luck is on their side as they try to win the second-largest prize in the history of the Mega Millions lottery game. Whoever picks all six winning numbers ahead of tonight’s drawing will win at least one-point-one billion dollars. The biggest Mega Millions jackpot was more than one-point five billion dollars back in 2018. Tickets cost $2.00 each and the drawing will be streamed live online at 
The monkeypox virus that’s been spreading rapidly across New York State is now being called an imminent threat to public health. That declaration by the state Department of Health Commissioner Mary Bassett means that local health departments engaged in response and prevention activities, will be able to access additional state reimbursement after other funding sources are maximized. New York State is leading the nation with monkeypox infections, most of which are in New York City; at last count, Monroe County has six confirmed cases. Monkeypox is commonly spread through exposure to an infected person’s lesions or respiratory droplets. Governor Hochul says 110,000 doses of monkeypox vaccine will be arriving in the next few weeks. Roughly 80,000 doses will go to New York City and the remaining doses will be distributed around the state.
The New York State Division of Consumer Protection has issued a reminder warning to residents about an ongoing text phishing scheme. The agency says scammers are sending messages where they’re impersonating financial institutions and claiming that a customer’s account has been compromised due to unusual activity. But, the messages are actually an attempt to get people to share personal information such as their social security number, credit card information or bank account number. Anyone who gets a fraudulent text message should delete it immediately.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that the vast majority of $567 million dedicated to help low-income electric and gas utility customers pay off past due bills, would soon be reflected on their accounts. At the direction of the Governor, the Department of Public Service, worked with the state’s major utilities to credit customers’ accounts. The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant financial hardship for New Yorkers, particularly low-income consumers. Since March 2020, the number of customers more than 60 days behind in their electric and gas utility bills and the total dollar amount owed across all the customers statewide, had grown to unprecedented levels. It’s anticipated that low-income customer credits will be posted to accounts beginning August 1 and consumers can expect to see the credit on their next billing cycle.
The American Red Cross is experiencing a drop in blood and platelet donations this summer. Red Cross officials say donations are down nearly 20 percent. This could lead to a seasonal shortage—which can affect patients in hospitals all across the country. Type O negative blood donors are especially needed now. Locally, the next two blood drives will be held next week: On Tuesday, August 2nd at the New York State School for the Blind from 10am – 3pm, and on Thursday, August 4th at Northgate Free Methodist Church on Bank Street, from 1-6pm. Donors need to make an appointment ahead of time and by doing so, will be entered to win a $10 e-gift card. Donors can schedule an appointment to donate using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or by visiting 
At the city Planning and Development Committee meeting, the focus of much discussion was on farm animals – and how to enforce restrictions, and which animal species should or should not be allowed in the city. In the end last night, the group agreed to put forth a recommendation, to use City Manager Rachael Tabelski’s drafted resolution, with a few alterations. The changes included: limiting chickens to six, banning roosters from being kept in the city, and requiring city residents to register their animals by a certain date, to be determined by council if it adopts the recommendation, or not be allowed to keep the animal on their city properties. Registering the animals will allow folks that already have chickens, goats and the like to keep them, and should make it easier to track who has what and where. This will next go to City Council for review and eventually a vote. And a public hearing will be scheduled before a final decision is made. The resolution by Rachael Tabelski “restricts people from owning, bringing into, possessing, keeping, harboring or feeding farm animals, cloven-hoofed animals, equine or fowl, including but not limited to cattle, horses, sheep, goats, pigs, swine, lamas, alpaca, ducks, turkey, geese, feral cats, ponies, donkeys, mules or any other farm or wild animal within city limits.”
Fifty-two organizations in Genesee, Wyoming and Livingston counties will benefit from $400,000 in impact grant investments by the United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes. This will include over $100,000 for 19 programs for summer camp and after-school programming, giving children and youth a safe place to socialize and gain new skills in leadership, literacy, art, work; as well as over $50,000 for seven food pantries and Meals on Wheels, helping seniors get proper nutrition and ensuring families have enough food to put a balanced meal on the table.
A Genesee County Court jury has found a Corfu man guilty on all counts of sexually assaulting a child. 21-year-old Shawn Myers was found guilty Thursday of first-degree criminal sexual act, a Class B violent felony punishable by up to 25 years in state prison. He also was found guilty of misdemeanor counts of third-degree sexual abuse and sexual misconduct, both of which happened while at Target on Veteran’s Memorial Drive. Myers was found guilty of engaging in anal sexual conduct by forcible compulsion on Jan. 28, 2021 in Batavia. The victim was less than 17 years old. Myers is to be sentenced in September. The verdict came after a four-day trial that included the victim’s testimony.
State Police tell us that a passenger on a motorcycle died in a collision involving a deer. The accident occurred last night on Cockram Road in the Town of Byron. Investigation revealed that a 1998 Harley Davidson operated by 30-year-old Leland Fuller, IV of Byron was traveling east bound on Cockram Road with a passenger, 28-year-old Daylin Fagundo-Rodriguez, also of Byron. A deer entered the road and was struck by the motorcycle. Both occupants were ejected; Fuller was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Fagundo-Rodriguez was pronounced deceased at the scene. The deer also died at the scene. The accident remains under investigation.
According to Triple A this morning, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gas dropped 16 cents nationally in the past week to $4.36 and 11 cents in New York State, to $4.58. A year ago, the state average was $3.19. In Batavia, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas is $4.52, that’s down 36 cents since a month ago but still up $1.35 from one year ago today.
Rochester Regional Health has made the decision to close the Batavia Urgent Care at the Jerome Medical Center, which will take effective August 1. This is in preparation to offer what they are referring to as re-imagined urgent care services in the Batavia Medical Campus on Oak Orchard Road, opening in the spring of 2023. Every staff member from Batavia Urgent Care is moving into another position within their system while the organization works through the Urgent Care redesign. In the coming days and weeks, patients will receive letters with more information and there will be new signs at the Batavia Urgent Care site about the changes. Primary care offices remain open, and providers aware of the changes ahead are prepared to see any patients with urgent needs.
Public Works Director Brett Frank tells us that the second phase of the roof replacement is just the beginning of the revitalization of the City Centre Mall. The vision for the mall is to have the entrances completely redone and once they are made more attractive and the water buckets inside are gone they hope more people will want to come in and more stores will want to set up shop inside. Money for the entrance project is coming from a 1 million dollar downtown revitalization initiative grant.
Residents of Albion have expressed concern regarding the $236,000 over-payment that has been made to police officers during the previous five years. The village board room in Albion was packed last night with discussion focused on whether or not the money should be recouped. A CPA firm last week presented the results of an audit, looking at officers’ pay checks over five years, ever since the village changed from having officers work five 8-hour shifts a week to 12-hour shifts. The change was made to reduce overtime in the police department and to give officers more days off. However, the village made an error in determining the hourly pay rate. In the end, board members voted to have the officers continue to be paid at the rate they’ve been getting, at least for the time being, until all details of the overpayment are available.
The Town of Batavia Fire Department responded to a small fire in one of the rooms at the Red Roof Inn on Park Road. Last night around 9:30, they were called as the hotel was evacuated. The fire was contained to a small corner of one of the rooms, put out with an extinguisher. The hotel was ventilated and guests were allowed to return to their rooms a short time later. The cause of the fire was determined to be a lithium-ion battery from a remote control car that overheated while being charged.
33-year-old Roy Watson Jr. of Batavia has pleaded guilty to criminal mischief in the fourth degree. He admitted to entering a home in Medina without permission and damaging items. He may be required to pay $650 in restitution. That amount will be determined during sentencing in October. Watson faces a maximum of 60 days in jail or four months of weekends. He could also receive a conditional discharge and three years of probation.
According to data from the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments, the number of confirmed Covid cases in Genesee and Orleans counties is holding steady, with 86 confirmed cases in the two counties from July 13 to July 19, compared to 81 the previous seven days. In Orleans, the Covid cases increased from 28 to 36, while in Genesee they decreased from 53 to 50. In New York State, the seven-day positivity rate, ending on Monday, was at 8.93 percent statewide. Orleans and Genesee counties are in the nine-county Finger Lakes Region, where the seven-day positivity rate is at 6.87 percent. The percentage is the highest in Western New York at 10.39 percent and the lowest in the Southern Tier at 6.64 percent.
Genesee County Sheriff Report: 29-year-old Jamie McClurg of Batavia is charged with petit larceny after allegedly skip-scanning multiple items that had a cost of $76.84 and then passing all points of sale in a store on Veteran’s Memorial Drive. McClurg was transported to the Genesee County Jail for prints and photos and will appear next month in Batavia Town Court. ALSO, 51-year-old Scott McColl of Pavilion is charged with DWI/alcohol or drugs/2nd offense, moving from a lane unsafely and operating an unregistered motorcycle, after deputies responded to a motorcycle accident on Summit Street Road in the town of Pavilion last week. McColl was released on an appearance ticket and will appear in the Town of Pavilion Court next month.
Next week, 84 Lumber will be holding a hiring event as the company tries to add employees to its stores in the Buffalo area. The job fair is happening on Wednesday, July 27th from 7:00am until 5:00pm at the Depew store, which is located on Walden Avenue. Among the positions that are available include manager trainees, truck drivers, window and door service technicians and also forklift/yard associates. Anyone who is interested in attending can pre-register online and should be prepared to participate in an interview. 
There is a heat advisory in effect for our entire region today, with temperatures reaching the mid to upper 90’s in combination with high humidity. The National Weather Service encourages folks to drink plenty of fluids, avoid working or being outside in the sun if possible, stay in an air-conditioned room, and check up on relatives and neighbors. The elderly, young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances, as they are the most susceptible to health issues associated with the heat.
The Genesee County Office for the Aging reminds people to be aware of the danger signs for heat exhaustion. They include heavy sweating, tiredness, headache, a cool, moist feeling on the skin, paleness, weakness, nausea or vomiting, a fast or weak pulse rate, muscle cramps, dizziness, fainting or fast, shallow breathing. The danger signs for heat stroke include: extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees Fahrenheit), red, hot and dry skin (no sweating), a rapid, strong pulse, throbbing headache or dizziness and nausea. The following can help everyone to protect themselves from heat-related problems:
Amazon is now one step closer to building a brand new three-million-square foot facility in the Town of Niagara. Last night, the Town Board gave the green light to the retail giant’s plan to construct a new warehouse on more than 200 acres of land in the area of Niagara Falls International Airport and the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station. The Buffalo News reports Amazon’s board of directors must sign off on the project before construction can begin. The distribution center is projected to create over 1000 jobs in the area.
The official opening of the Genesee County Fair is Saturday, July 23rd, but there will be horse shows and entertainment this Friday as well. The fair opens at 9am and rides and buildings close at 10pm but special ticketed entertainment will run later at night. Each day of the fair features a theme. Saturday is drive your tractor to the fair day and kids day. Sunday is Senior Citizens day. Monday is Veterans day. Tuesday is 4-H Day and Chapin manufacturing day. Wednesday is Emergency Responders Day and the second Kids Day. Thursday is HP Hood day and Friday is Chamber of Commerce Day. Kids Day for the last day of the fair. Admission is 10 dollars and an unlimited wristband for the midway can be had for 25 dollars or 15 on the first and last day of the fair, both of which are Kids Days. For more information visit the fair website at 
The New York State Fair is just a few weeks away, and today tickets and parking passes for the very popular event will be going on sale. Admission is $3.00 and parking is available for $5.00. People 65 and older and children 12 and under will still get in for free. This year’s fair begins Wednesday, August 24th and runs through Monday, September 5th; to buy tickets and for a full list of events, go to 
The Batavia Muckdogs played their rival Jamestown Tarp Skunks last night at Dwyer Stadium with the ‘Dogs coming out on top, 2-1; both the Muckdogs and Utica won their games last night so Batavia maintains the top spot in the West Division. The Muckdogs take on the Power tonight at Niagara…the next home game is tomorrow night against Elmira, starting at 7:00.
Rochester police are continuing their investigation into a shooting that left one person dead and two others hurt. According to 13 WHAM, officers were on patrol in the area of North Clinton Avenue and Rauber Street overnight when they heard gunshots and found the victims. A 19-year-old man was killed, a 25-year-old man suffered serious injuries and a 29-year-old man is expected to survive. Anyone with information on this case is asked to dial 911 immediately.
The city’s filtration plant stopped pumping out water this past weekend due to a problem with a controller, a part that sends a signal to the pumps to turn off. This resulted in the Control Panel defaulting to the off position, with no power going to the pump. So, in summary, for about a two-hours Sunday afternoon, there was no water coming out of the Batavia Water Plant; when this happens, county highway superintendent Tim Hens said that water storage tanks are used in lieu of working pumps. The detailed story is available on the website of our news partner, The Batavian; here is a direct link: 
Members of the Erie County Gun Violence Prevention Task Force have released their first report. The group is made up of agencies including the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, Buffalo Police Department and Erie County District Attorney’s Office. The task force was created after more than 30 shooting incidents happened last July. Since then, the task force says it has accomplished several things including expanding the Summer Youth Employment Program which allows young people to take part in a 16-week program where they work 25 hours a week. The complete report can be found on the county’s website.
One of the oldest hotels in the area will be going up on the auction block later this year. A real estate firm has put the over 300 room Millennium Hotel Buffalo located on Walden Avenue in Cheektowaga up for sale and the minimum bid is two-million-dollars. The hotel is still open and operational and the auction is scheduled for September 6th through the 8th. The hotel was built back in 1973 and features 12-thousand square feet of event and meeting space and also a restaurant.
The Batavia Muckdogs remain on top in the West Division with 24 wins and 10 losses (the last 10 games: 8-2). The Utica Blue Sox remain a close second. Tonight the Muckdogs host the Jamestown Tarp Skunks; game time is 7:00.
The Richmond Memorial Library Tweens & Teens Staff will be sponsoring a Book Drive for Children’s and Young Adult books beginning later this month. The book drive starts July 27th; they welcome books for children or teens of all ages’ they must be in new or good condition, and can be dropped off anytime the library is open. The Library G.I.F.T. Program (Generate Imagination in Families Today) is dedicated to making new or gently used books available to children and their families in our area, and to raising awareness of the lifelong benefits of early childhood literacy. For information on the book drive and other library programs, visit the library website at 
Governor Kathy Hochul announced that SUNY and CUNY community colleges will receive $5 million in funding to support the creation or enhancement of short-term credential programs or course offerings that provide pathways to employment in the cannabis industry. The funding supports programs that will create or enhance non-degree and degree-eligible courses and programs, stackable credentials, and/or micro credentials that quickly address local employer skill needs within the cannabis sector, a projected multi-billion dollar industry with tens of thousands jobs. Selected campuses must also partner with local employers in the cannabis industry and receive their input on curriculum development. Additionally, the New York State Department of Labor and the Office of Cannabis Management will support efforts to expand learning opportunities by helping to connect businesses and job seekers to these essential training programs. Upon completion, the Department will help candidates complete resumes, prepare for job interviews and provide regional job leads.
Police are investigating after ten cars were stolen from a West Herr dealership in Orchard Park Saturday night. Five of the vehicles have since been found as of 11:00 yesterday morning, without any damage. Anyone with information is asked to contact local police.
Our region is getting much-needed rain today after very little precipitation the past month. All of Western New York and much of the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes Region are either abnormally dry or in moderate drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Southern half of Genesee County is under moderate drought conditions, which have turned many lawns and fields yellow.
A Leicester man was killed when a car pulled in front of his motorcycle at Morgan Road and Union Street Friday night, Monroe County Sheriff’s investigators said. 49-year-old James E. Lee III was pronounced dead at the scene of the 9 p.m. crash. Deputies said Lee was traveling south on Union Street when a Pontiac Vibe that was going west on Morgan stopped and then pulled out in front of Lee.
Batavia City Police report the dog that overdosed on cocaine and an unknown narcotic is recovering at Genesee County Animal Shelter. The French bulldog was seized after police investigation revealed it had overdosed three times, over the course of approximately five weeks (on May 15, May 25 and again on June 21). Assistant Chief Christopher Camp said the dog was taken from its owner, 30-year-old Cassandra Elmore of Batavia. Elmore was charged with three counts of injuring an animal and one count of owning an unlicensed dog. She is to appear later this month in City Court. Elmore may have attempted to conceal the incidents by going to vets in another county. However, police tell us the veterinarian who treated the dog after the third overdose, will not face any repercussions since it was the first time the dog was brought to that vet.
The number of Finger Lakes residents who have tested positive for the coronavirus is continuing to rise. The latest data from the state shows the 7-day average infection rate is now over 6.7%. At this time last week, the infection rate was 5.4%. And the number of Western New York residents who have tested positive for the coronavirus is also continuing to rise. The latest data from the state shows the 7-day average infection rate is now over 9.8%. At this time last week, the infection rate was 9.1%. People are being urged to protect themselves and others from the illness by being vaccinated, getting their booster shots and wearing a mask indoors.
Hundreds of nurses who work at Rochester General Hospital have voted to form a union. Overall, more than 400 nurses said they wanted to join the Rochester Union of Nurses and Allied Professionals while nearly 300 of them voted against the move. The outcome of this vote still needs to be approved by the National Labor Relations Board and that process could take a few days to complete. In a statement, officials with Rochester Regional Health expressed disappointment with this vote, saying they believe a direct working relationship with employees is best for the hospital and team members.
Alexander’s Zoning Board has decided against putting up a windmill off Dry Bridge Road. The key issue was the height: The Town only allows 500 feet as the maximum for windmills and this one would have to be 650 feet tall. 500 feet was standard when the town approved its zoning code. However, changes in technology and industry standards now require 650 feet. The proposed 4.5-megawatt windmill would have been the only wind turbine on the 147-acre parcel as part of a community-based renewable energy project.
New York is giving grant money to abortion providers throughout the state following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Governor Hochul says $10,000,000 from a newly created Abortion Provider Support Fund is being sent to 13 organizations that have dozens of abortion clinics across the state. The money will be used to expand abortion clinic operations with out-of-state residents expected to come to New York seeking abortion services. New York will also soon give $15,000,000 to independent abortion clinics in phase two of the grant funding.
The Batavia Muckdogs shut out the Jamestown Tarp Skunks last night 4-0…the ‘Dogs record is now 19-10. They’re in second place in the West Division, behind the Utica Blue Sox (22-11). The Muckdogs saddled up the horse this morning to travel to Elmira; they’ll take on the Pioneers at 7:00 tonight.
Today, Governor Kathy Hochul announced the successful implementation of 9-8-8 in New York State as the new three-digit number to call or text to be connected to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. All 62 counties in New York State will be covered for the launch of the new 9-8-8 Lifeline, which will ensure that anyone with a New York area code will be connected to one of New York’s 9-8-8 crisis centers. Calling 9-8-8 provides a direct connection to compassionate, accessible care and support for anyone experiencing mental health or substance abuse related distress. A chat feature will also be available through the Lifeline’s website (988lifeline.org). There are currently 13 operating 9-8-8 crisis contact centers in New York State and two in the development stage. The 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline will be able to:
Wegmans is holding a hiring event today as the supermarket chain looks to fill hundreds of positions at its Rochester area stores. It’s happening from 2:00 until 6:00pm at the Pittsford Wegmans located on Monroe Avenue in Rochester. Among the jobs that are available include food service workers, pharmacy techs, cooks and management opportunities. Anyone who wants to apply can do so by visiting jobs.wegmans.com.
The summer concert season is underway, and multiple state agencies are working together to prevent underage drinking at venues across the state. Under an initiative called Operation Prevent, there will be enforcement sweeps to stop the use of fake IDs to buy alcohol. Anyone under the age of 21 who’s caught using a phony ID or someone else’s ID can get a ticket and have their license revoked for up to a year. Police will also be keeping an eye out for drunk drivers during and after concerts.
In a press release issued today, the City of Batavia tells us: There is an urgent need to fill crossing guard positions for the 2022-23 School Year. The salary is $13.46/hour, and they’re accepting applications for the position of part-time School Crossing Guard. Qualifications: Graduation from a standard senior high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma. Civil Service employment applications may be picked up in the Human Resources Department, City Hall, One Batavia City Centre. Please submit completed applications to Dawn Fairbanks, Human Resources Director, e-mail: fairbank@batavianewyork.com. Background check and drug testing required. Candidate must become a resident of the County of Genesee or any adjacent town to the County of Genesee within 6 months of the date of conclusion of the probationary period for the City of Batavia. EEO
Genesee County has issued water conservation notices for the last 2 years as water levels in the aquifer have been below normal levels for some time. Well, Seneca Power Partners on Cedar Street wants to draw more than 715 thousand gallons of water a day from the water that supplies the County, City and Town. The 3 municipalities have asked the DEC to deny the permit to draw all of this water. They say this would burden the aquifer, affecting the water treatment plant and the Tonawanda Creek. They said that the company did not inform the municipalities and did not consider other sources first, such as O-At-Ka Milk Products, which is only 100 yards away and discharges over 1 million gallons of water daily.
A road construction alert…Richmond Avenue is closed for road construction between Redfield Parkway and Park Road today and tomorrow, from 7:00am – 5:00pm. The roadway will be re-opened overnight. Motorists looking to access Park Road are asked to approach from the North at the intersection of Park and Veterans Memorial Drive.
The Buffalo Sabres will be hoping to improve their roster tonight during the NHL Draft. The Sabres have the 9th, 16th, and 28th overall selections in the first round of the draft, which is taking place at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Buffalo had the number one pick last year and used it to choose defenseman Owen Power. The draft begins at 7:00pm and is going to air on both ESPN and ESPN Plus.
A Warsaw resident died this morning in a house fire at 24 Murray Street. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered smoke coming from the house’s second story with a victim reportedly inside. They were able to rescue him; however, he later succumbed to his injuries at Wyoming County Community Hospital. The fire’s cause remains under investigation.
37-year-old Tarrell Carter of Rochester was arrested by Le Roy Police and charged with strangulation (a felony) and two misdemeanors, assault and endangering the welfare of a child. Shortly before midnight Sunday evening, police responded to a domestic incident at a residence in the Village of Le Roy. Carter is accused of choking and punching the victim during an argument that turned physical. He was taken into custody and arraigned in Le Roy Town Court. Carter was remanded to the Genesee County Jail with no bail and is due in court again later this month.
Two members of the Buffalo Police Department have been cleared of any wrongdoing in connection with an officer-involved shooting. The incident happened last month after 27-year-old Nakeem Haynes allegedly shot and killed 63-year-old Atlas Johnson near Broadway and Sears Street. When police approached Haynes, he jumped on the hood of their vehicle and opened fire but didn’t hit anyone. The officers then ran after Haynes who ended up being shot several times. Haynes is charged with murder and attempted murder and could be sentenced to 25 years to life in prison if convicted.
Despite some rain early Saturday morning, a water conservation notice remains in effect for Genesee County.
The woman who stole $105,000 from the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce will spend the next seven years in state prison.
The Genesee County Office for Aging tells us that the Farmer’s Market Coupons will not be available until sometime next week.
The State Department of Environmental Conservation tells us there is an Air Quality Advisory in effect for Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties today, until 11:00pm. This is due today to high-levels of ground-level ozone, most often created by car exhaust and out-of-state emission sources mixing with oxygen. This form of ozone should not be confused with the protective layer of ozone in the upper atmosphere. During times of elevated pollution levels, people are advised to consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who are especially sensitive to pollutants include the very young and those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease. Anyone with symptoms should consider consulting their Primary Care Provider. For more information, the New York State Air Quality Hotline can be reached by calling 800-535-1345.
The Canadian Government has announced that the travel restrictions for COVID 19 will continue at least until September 30th. What this means is, Americans crossing the border must be fully vaccinated and are mandated to use the ArriveCAN app to submit information. They may also be subject to random arrival testing. Representative Brian Higgins is not happy about this; he reflected that 2-1/2 years of border restrictions, with most people being vaccinated on both sides of the border, are breaking the US Canada relationship and economies.
The state Department of Health has issued a reminder to all New Yorkers about the dangers of fireworks. The agency says in order to prevent serious injury, people should only use legal sparkling devices and leave the use of other types of fireworks that are illegal to professionals. Data released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission revealed there were over 15,000 fireworks-related injuries that required emergency department treatment in 2020, with many of them happening around July 4th. The health department is also recommending that people use earplugs when watching fireworks displays to help protect their hearing.
With a lot of people expected to be on the roads for the Independence Day weekend, members of Genesee County law enforcement agencies as well as police across New York State, will be keeping a close eye out for drunk drivers. Travelers can expect to see increased police patrols as part of a STOP-DWI campaign that runs through Tuesday, July 5th. Folks who are planning to drink are urged to make sure they have a safe ride home. Anyone who sees suspicious or dangerous activity while they’re traveling should dial 911 immediately.
No one has won the top Mega Millions prize in several weeks; all lotto players are hoping tonight is their lucky night. The jackpot up for grabs in this evening’s drawing will be $360,000,000. The cost of a ticket to play is $2.00, but the odds of picking all of the winning numbers are one in over 302,000,000. Tonight’s drawing will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.
Lawmakers are back at the State Capitol today for a special session that was ordered by Governor Hochul. The governor is asking the Senate and Assembly to consider several pieces of legislation after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the State’s conceal carry weapons law. The country’s highest court said last week that the rules for granting concealed-carry permits to gun owners violated the U.S. Constitution. Governor Hochul has proposed several measures including a requirement that people who have a history of dangerous behavior be banned from getting a concealed-carry permit.
GLOW With Your Hands is on the search for volunteers to help support the day long, hands-on career exploration event for GLOW Region students, scheduled for September 27. Annually, the event averages roughly 100 volunteers, with 50 – 75 individuals working directly with the students. Some volunteers will be paired with students individually for assistance. There are several skilled trades and fields that students can learn more about, including agriculture, bricklaying, electrical wiring and heavy-equipment operation. Additional information and volunteer applications are available here: 
The state Department of Transportation says a construction project in Monroe County began today. According to the agency, drivers can expect to have to deal with delays due to single-lane closures along Interstate 490 westbound in the area of Exit 26 in Perinton. Exit 26 connecting westbound traffic on I-490 to State Route 31 will still remain open. Construction is scheduled to continue through August and more information can be found by visiting 
New Yorkers are heading to the polls today to decide who will be the nominees in the race for governor. For the Democrats, Governor Hochul, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, and Long Island Congressman Tom Suozzi are hoping they’ve earned enough support to win. For the Republicans, Long Island Congressman Lee Zeldin, Andrew Giuliani, businessman Harry Wilson, and former Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino are looking to be the GOP nominee. Primaries are also being held today for seats in the state Assembly and for lieutenant governor. Polls are open until 9:00pm.
By now you may have heard that the only independently owned pharmacy in Batavia, Alberty Drug Store, is in the process of closing. Beginning this week, they will only be open to fill prescriptions, which will be the case until sometime in July. The detailed story is available at the website of our news partner, The Batavian. A direct link to the story is available here: 
Western New York drivers woke up this morning to find a nearly 3% decrease in the per-gallon price at the pumps, that’s since a week ago today. According to Triple A this morning, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $4.86 in our region. The state average is now sitting at $4.96 a gallon and the national average is $4.90. In Batavia, the average price per gallon is $4.88. The average price for diesel here is the same as it was a week ago, $6.26 per gallon.
Early voting for tomorrow’s primary election has wrapped up, with election officials reporting an increase in voting over last year. The period lasted nine days and ended yesterday. According to a poll conducted by Survey USA, Lee Zeldin is leading the pack in the Republican primaries with Andrew Giuliani close behind. Both have nearly 25% of the vote each with Wilson and Astorino lagging behind in the teens and single digits. 31 percent of republican voters are still undecided. In the democrat primary Governor Hochul is far ahead of her challengers Suozzi and Williams. Tomorrow, polls will be open from 6:00am until 9:00pm tomorrow night.
A bipartisan gun control package is now law. President Biden signed the legislation into law Saturday after receiving it from the Senate late Thursday. The act enhances background checks, provides funding for mental health services, prevents convicted domestic abusers from purchasing a weapon for five years, as well as creates penalties for gun trafficking, among other measures. It’s the first significant gun control legislation passed in 30 years, and follows devastating mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde, Texas.
The Buffalo Police Department has released body camera footage of an officer-involved shooting that happened last week. Officials say the incident occurred after 27-year-old Nakeem Hayes allegedly shot and killed 63-year-old Atlas Johnson near Broadway and Sears Street last Friday night. When police approached Hayes, he jumped on the hood of their vehicle and opened fire but didn’t hit anyone. The officers ran after Hayes who was shot several times and is facing an attempted murder charge. Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia said yesterday he believes video of the encounter between Hayes and police shows the actions the officers took were within the confines of the law and department policy.
The U.S. Department of Education has announced that Genesee Community College’s TRiO Upward Bound Program will receive a 5-year, $3 million federal Upward Bound grant to be equally divided between Genesee and Wyoming counties. The funding will provide opportunities to assist more low-income students who would be the first members of their families to earn degrees, to prepare for and enroll in college. Upward Bound is an intensive intervention program that prepares students for higher education through various enrichment courses. At least two-thirds of the students in each local Upward Bound program are from low-income economic backgrounds and families in which neither parent has a bachelor’s degree. GCC’s Upward Bound program services seven schools in Genesee and Wyoming Counties.
The City of Henrietta has rejected a request for a permit by Planned Parenthood to operate a clinic in the city. Last week, New York State had expanded legal protections for people seeking and providing abortion. But at a packed meeting last night, the Henrietta Town Board narrowly voted down the request by Planned Parenthood. Last year, a proposal to build a Planned Parenthood clinic in Brighton won approval by the city’s Planning Board.
A heat advisory has been issued for this afternoon in the GLOW region. The advisory is in effect until 6:00pm, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo. Heat index values in the mid-to-upper 90s are expected. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur. People are advised to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Watch pets, small children and the elderly for signs of heat exhaustion. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. And if you work or spend time outside, take extra precautions…When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Call 911 in the event of heat stroke. The advisory also includes Niagara, Monroe, Ontario and Wayne counties.
According to Triple A this morning, the average national price of regular gas has slipped to under $5.00 per gallon; it’s the first time this closely watched number has decreased in nine weeks. Experts say it’s an indication that prices will be slightly lower before the July 4th holiday. The U.S. Energy Information Administration tells us that pump prices are declining in part because of a reduction in demand for fuel, as more drivers change daily routines and prioritize budgets for recreational travel. In Batavia, the average price per gallon is $4.88; the same as it was yesterday, but down 3 cents from a week ago.
With just days until the June 28th primary, four Republican candidates in the race for New York governor have held their third and final debate. Andrew Giuliani, Long Island Congressman Lee Zeldin, businessman Harry Wilson, and former Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino all gathered on stage in Rochester last night. There were a variety of topics discussed including crime, immigration, abortion and gun control. The candidates also criticized Governor Hochul, who is the frontrunner to be the Democratic Party’s nominee in November.
The Muckdogs are number 1 in the league after their 5 to 0 win over the Niagara Power Monday night. Even with the Power getting 13 hits they could not score a run. The Muckdogs scored once in the second inning, three in the third, and one in the fifth. They are now 9 and 2, a half game ahead of the Utica Blue sox. They are home again tonight at 7 pm to face off against Watertown.
A pilot has been taken to the hospital following a single-engine plane crash in Canandaigua. The Ontario County Sheriff’s Department says the aircraft went down in a field yesterday. The pilot ejected moments before impact and suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Both the FAA and sheriff’s office are looking into what caused the crash.
Delaware North is a food, beverage and retail partner with the Buffalo Bills is holding the first of two job fairs today. The company wants to fill positions at Highmark Stadium. The hiring event goes from 5:30pm until 7:30pm at the ADPRO Sports Training Center located on Abbott Road in Orchard Park. The second job fair will be July 16th from 11:00am until 1:00pm at the same location. Among the positions that are available include cashiers, servers, vendors and line cooks. More information can be found online at 
A food drive to help people affected by a mass shooting in Buffalo last month will continue to be up and running through this Saturday. Uniting and Healing through Hope says donations can be dropped off at any one of more than 20 locations across Monroe County such as police stations, churches and libraries. In addition to food, items that are still needed include toothpaste, shampoo, diapers and detergent. More information can be found online at 
Genesee County Sheriffs tell us that earlier this month, they responded to the parking lot of Dick’s Sporting Goods, following a complaint that a man was trying to sell a gold ring for cash. Following the investigation, it became evident that the man and a female passenger in his car were perpetrating a scam that has previously been identified by law enforcement. Genesee County Sheriff’s are asking any citizens who purchased jewelry from an individual in this area, including the Walmart and Batavia Downs parking lots, to contact them directly at 585-345-3000 (Investigator Ryan DuLong, ext. 3572; or Investigator Erik Andre, ext. 3574).
53-year-old Paula Kingdollar of Covington was arrested for petit larceny. Troopers investigating the complaint from the owner of a produce stand on Bank Street Road in the Town of Batavia, determined Kingdollar had allegedly taken produce valued at $33.00 without paying for it. Kingdollar was arrested and released with an appearance ticket for Batavia Town Court and is due back in court next month.
Western New York drivers are seeing consistent prices at the gas pumps these days. According to Triple A this morning, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $4.98 in our region. That’s the same as it was last week but 14 cents more than this time one month ago is and $1.89 higher than a year ago. The state average is now sitting at $5.01 a gallon and the national average is $4.98. In Batavia, the average price per gallon is $4.89; same as it was yesterday and down 3 cents from a week ago. By the way, average price for diesel here is $6.26 per gallon.
The Food and Drug Administration today has authorized the first COVID-19 shots for infants at least 6 months of age and preschoolers; vaccinations could begin as early as next week. That means kids under 5 — roughly 18 million youngsters — are eligible for the shots, about 1-1/2 years after the vaccines first became available in the United States for use with the most vulnerable adults, who had been hit the hardest during the pandemic. There’s one step left: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends how to use the vaccines and its vaccine advisers are set to discuss the shots for the youngest kids today and vote on in tomorrow.
People across Western New York will be gathering this weekend to celebrate Juneteenth. In Buffalo, an event is taking place both Saturday and Sunday at Martin Luther King Junior Park. The 47th annual gathering is going to feature historical tours and education programs, arts and cultural displays, food, and a health and wellness pavilion. Juneteenth, short for June Nineteenth, is a day, which commemorates the end of legalized slavery in the United States.
Rochester police are still looking into a shooting that sent a 33-year-old man to the hospital. The man told investigators that he was hit by gunfire on Epworth Street last night. The victim, whose name hasn’t been released, suffered a lower-body injury and is expected to be OK. Anyone with information on the case is asked to dial 911.
There is a heat advisory for Western NY in effect. From 10 this morning to 6 tonight the National Weather Service warns that the heat index will be in the upper 90s. High humidity and heat may cause heat illnesses to occur. Remember to drink plenty of water and get in the shade or air conditioning if you start feeling hot or light headed. Young children and pets are most susceptible for heat exhaustion as they may not know their limits or to protect themselves. 
The Rotary Club of Batavia is sponsoring their annual Father’s Day Breakfast this Sunday, June 19 at the Genesee County Airport. Breakfast will be served from 7 until 11 a.m. The menu including eggs, pancakes, sausage, omelets, juice, coffee, tea and milk. Tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for children ages 4-12. Children 3 and under eat free. Tickets are available from any Batavia Rotary Club member. All proceeds from the breakfast help fund the Batavia Rotary Club’s charitable projects.
You may have recently started noticing a small fee on your receipt when you purchase paint. It’s a Paintcare fee; they are a non-profit organization that represents paint makers in states with similar programs. Think of them as a middleman. What they do is set up drop-off sites to handle paint waste and recycling. In New York, the fee runs anywhere from $0.45 to $1.95 depending on how much architectural paint you’re buying. The fee is not a deposit or a tax; the money doesn’t get returned to you when you drop off paint nor does go to the state. Instead, Paintcare uses the funds to self-sustain because they do not receive monetary support from the state. They currently offer more than 200 drop-off sites here in New York, with at least one in Batavia. You can look locations up online:
The New York State Department of Health reminds residents that COVID-19 booster vaccinations for kids between the ages of five and 11 years old are still available. Children in that age group should receive their booster shot five months after completing their initial two-dose Pfizer vaccine series. The vaccines are offered at no cost.
Genesee County officials and business leaders are already preparing for “Wings Over Batavia,” the first air show in our area since 1998. The show will feature aerobatic jet teams such as the Blue Angels, Thunderbirds or Snowbirds and patriotic displays of F16 and F22 fighter jets. The show is tentatively scheduled for September 15-17th, 2023 at the Genesee County Airport and is scheduled to take place in conjunction with the renewal of the Wing Ding event on Sept. 16 in the City of Batavia. Residents interested in volunteering in the planning of on-site operations should contact Tim Hens, the County Highway Superintendent (
A traffic alert to remind you about: If you’ll be driving on Columbia, Seneca and Miller Avenues in Batavia today until about 3pm, you should expect traffic delays. While work is being performed in this area, the roadway will be closed to all through traffic. Local traffic will be permitted to and from their residence or property but are asked not to park on the roadway during construction. Please contact the Bureau of Maintenance at 585-345-6400 Option 1 if there are any questions.
With gas prices reaching a record high, the New York State Division of Consumer Protection has issued some tips to help people save money. The agency recommends drivers choose the lowest octane recommended for their vehicle and compare the price advertised on the gas station’s sign and on the pump to ensure they’re the same. It’s also recommended that drivers maintain their vehicles so they can get the best possible fuel mileage. According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas in Batavia this morning is $4.92, up two cents from yesterday.
A traffic alert to call your attention to: If you’ll be driving on Columbia, Seneca and Miller Avenues in Batavia tomorrow between 7am and 3pm, you should expect traffic delays. All motorists please be aware that Columbia Avenue, Seneca Avenue, and Miller Avenue will experience traffic delays on Friday, June 10th from 7AM to 3PM for cold milling operations. While work is being performed in this area, the roadway will be closed to all through traffic. Local traffic will be permitted to and from their residence or property but should plan accordingly for delays. All residents and businesses within the work area are asked not to park on the roadway during construction. This is weather dependent work; if work is postponed it shall progress the next workday. Please contact the Bureau of Maintenance at 585-345-6400 Option 1 if there are any questions.
The State University of New York schools are updating policies when it comes to a person’s chosen name and pronoun they wish to use. According to officials, the move is being made ensure that transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary students’ identities are fully reflected and represented. SUNY students will now be able to select ‘X’ when asked to provide gender by the college. The chosen names are going to appear on college diplomas, campus profiles and more.
37-year-old Danielle Tooley of Batavia has pleaded guilty to wire fraud. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Rossi stated that between July 9 and December 4, 2020, Tooley applied for and collected unemployment benefits to which she was not entitled, benefits that were connected to federal COVID-19 relief programs. The scheme came to the attention of law enforcement on November 24, 2020, when Tooley was arrested for criminal possession of a controlled substance during a vehicle traffic stop on Clinton Street in Bergen. Tooley admitted at the time that she had crack cocaine in the center console of the vehicle. As they prepared for Tooley’s vehicle to be towed, troopers recovered six New York State unemployment benefit cards issued to individuals other than Tooley, which they turned over to the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. Subsequent investigation determined that Tooley consistently withdrew money from bank accounts associated with the benefit cards. Sentencing is scheduled for August 17, 2022.
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that $46 million is earmarked for investment into two pavement improvement projects on the New York State Thruway in both Erie and Genesee counties. The two projects include resurfacing of more than 100 lane miles of the Thruway between exit 47 (Rochester – Le Roy – I-490 – NY Route 19) to beyond exit 48A (Pembroke – Medina – NY Route 77). A $23.4 million pavement improvement project on the Thruway in Genesee County is underway on a 15.5-mile stretch between exit 47 (Rochester – Le Roy – I-490 – NY Route 19) and exit 48 (Batavia – NY Route 98). Approximately 39,000 motorists travel on this section of I-90 every day. The project includes full and partial depth repairs as well as full pavement resurfacing. Additionally, pavement-resurfacing work will take place at the on- and off-ramps at exit 47 and exit 48, as well as the exit 47 Commuter Park and Ride lot. Reflective line striping for enhanced safety will also be applied. Cold Spring Construction Company of Akron, NY is the contractor for the project. Work is expected to be complete in summer 2023.
After last year’s virtual run, the Kiwanis Club of Batavia is glad to be bringing back the Independence Day 5K run at Centennial Park on Monday, July 4th. Proceeds from the race will be distributed to the Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park, Batavia City School Foundation for the Community Schools Program, and the Kiwanis activity fund; the latter of which, supports community events such as the Thanksgiving Morning Skate and Annual Easter Egg Hunt.
Officials in the Gananda Central School District say they’re looking into ways to improve school safety following a recent scare. On Friday, an eighth-grader said there was a person with a gun inside of Gananda Middle School but it turned out that was not the case. Last night, district leaders and police met with parents to discuss the incident, which led to the student being arrested. Law enforcement will continue to have an increased presence at Gananda schools.
There is an ongoing police investigation in Orleans County involving an altercation at the Holley Middle School last week. This is surrounding a student who identifies as transgender. The incident happened during school on June 2nd when a 7th grader, who goes by the name River, was wearing a rainbow pride flag at school. Another student reportedly pulled the flag, which River was wearing as a cape and had been fastened around his neck. In response, River pulled the other student’s backpack. The other student had then yanked on the flag, again, but this time harder, pulling River down. This led to a physical fight between the two students. The school district had contacted the students’ parents and both students were disciplined according to school protocol (both were suspended) and police report. River’s mom, Robayn Perrin, however, says her child had been subject to bullying for months. Police say this is an ongoing investigation.
After a two-year break, Batavia City Firefighters will once again be passing the boot for donations a week from Friday, June 17th. They will be standing in the street from 8:30 to 1:30 on Court and Main and Court and Ellicott. Donations collected during the Fill the Boot campaign support researching neuromuscular diseases such as ALS, muscular dystrophy, and other diseases. Donations will also provide support for families affected by these diseases and opportunities for children affected to go to camps with other children.
Some new data from the state Department of Health shows the adult cigarette-smoking rate is at an all-time low in New York State. In 2020, that rate was sitting at 12%, which is below the national average of 15.5%. Among people between the ages of 18 and 24, the smoking rate is 5.5%. However, diseases that are caused by smoking and secondhand smoke still cause over 22,000 deaths statewide each year. Anyone who needs help quitting smoking can call the New York State Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-697-8487 or visit 
Wyoming County Sherriff’s deputies tell us a Batavia man now faces felony charges after he was found to be driving while high with two teenagers in the car, along with concentrated cannabis. Sheriffs stopped 21-year-old Memphis Chamberlain during the DWI crackdown over Memorial Day Weekend. He appeared high on drugs and the odor of marijuana was inside the car. Two teenagers, age 15 and 17, were passengers. The 17-year-old had more than 24 grams of concentrated cannabis in her possession and told police Chamberlain gave it to her. Chamberlain was charged with driving while impaired by drugs, felony aggravated DWI with a child in the car, felony criminal sale of cannabis, unlawful possession of cannabis, unlicensed operation, driver’s view obstructed, modified muffler and unauthorized stickers on windows. He is to appear at a later date in Town Court.
A Batavia man needed to be flown by Mercy Flight to Strong Memorial Hospital. He suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns yesterday afternoon as he was getting a lawn mower from his shed. He believes he accidentally hit an igniter on a propane grill, which caused a spark and the vapors exploded. The man was reportedly burned across 60 percent of his body.
The Genesee County Economic Development Center Board of Directors approved an agreement supporting the O-AT-KA Milk Products 3,200 square foot facility expansion. O-AT-KA had proposed a $3.1 million investment that would be home to two new 18,000-gallon tanks. The goals of the project include increased capacities of cream-based liquor beverages and future expansions. The project is proposing to create two new jobs at a leading employer in Genesee County’s food and beverage manufacturing ecosystem.
The Kiwanis Club of Batavia Criminal Justice Award is presented to a member or members of the community, law enforcement, or a criminal justice agency serving the citizens of Genesee County whose exceptional career achievements and conscientiousness to citizenship have demonstrated a spirit of selfless public service or demonstrated an act of exceptional valor or heroism.
Genesee County is waiving fees for civil service exams. This is an effort to try to get more people interested in employment with Police, Sheriff, Fire, Probation and Dispatch service. Human Resources Director Anita Cleveland noted that since the 20 to 25 dollar exam fee was implemented the number of people signing up to take the exams has fallen. This led her to propose dropping the fees through December 31st a move that will cost the county approximately $3000. After passing the Ways and Means Committee, it goes to the county legislature for the final vote.
A popular fast-food chain is planning to add a fourth location in the Rochester area. According to WHEC, Chick-fil-A wants to build a new restaurant on Route 250 in Penfield that would seat 75 people and have a three-lane drive-thru. The other Chick-fil-A’s are located in Greece, Henrietta and Irondequoit. There’s no word yet on when the Penfield restaurant will open.
38-year-old Thomas Wolcott of Batavia is charged with criminal contempt. He is accused of violating an order of protection. Wolcott was arraigned in City Court and ordered held on $10,000 bail.
After weeks of having to hand over a lot of money to fill up their vehicles, New York drivers are finally getting a little relief at the gas pumps today. That’s because a gas tax holiday that was approved as part of this year’s state budget is now in effect. The suspension of the state’s 16-cents-per gallon tax is going to remain in place through the end of December. According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas in Batavia is $4.85, up two cents from yesterday.
Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel is donating 3300 concert tickets to the Genesee County Veterans Service Agency. The concert tickets are good for the June 10th ‘Bruce in the USA’ charity concert, and the 11 concerts in the Rockin’ The Downs series starting on June 17th.
United States and Canadian regulators are investigating a hepatitis outbreak that may be linked to fresh organic strawberries. In a joint weekend statement, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Public Health Agency of Canada say at least 27 illnesses have occurred after people ate FreshKampo and H-E-B brand strawberries. The strawberries were purchased between March 5 and April 25 at various retailers, including Aldi, Kroger and Wal-Mart. Of course, the strawberries are past their shelf life, but consumers who froze them to eat later should throw them away. There have been 17 illnesses and 12 hospitalizations reported. Ten cases and four hospitalizations have been reported in Canada. In a statement on its website, Texas grocer H-E-B said it has not received or sold organic strawberries from the supplier in question since April 16. H-E-B said anyone who still has the strawberries should throw them away or return them to the store where they were purchased. Hepatitis A is a virus that can cause liver disease and, in rare cases, liver failure and death. Illness usually occurs within 15 to 50 days after eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and jaundice. Consumers who ate the potentially affected berries in the last two weeks and have not been vaccinated against hepatitis A should immediately consult with a physician, the FDA said.
Niagara County deputies are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to a body being discovered on the shore of Lake Ontario. They say the remains were spotted on Saturday off Maple Avenue, which is located in the Town of Wilson. The name of the individual hasn’t been released. Officials are now waiting for autopsy results to find out how the person died.
As part of Memorial Day Weekend, and for the first time since it opened, veterans, family members, and area residents gathered at the WNY National Cemetery in Pembroke to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of their country. Several hundred people gathered for the ceremony yesterday, which included a 21-gun salute, honor guard flag presentation, and special remembrances.
Many people will be having a barbeque today and the State Division of Consumer Protection has issued some safety tips to keep in mind when grilling. The agency recommends making sure the grill is clean before use and checking the hoses on a gas grill for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks. Also, only use grills outside in a well-ventilated area and keep them away from surfaces that could burn. Finally, have an extinguisher nearby and easily accessible in case of a fire. I smell what you’re cooking and I’m on my way…
Memorial Day observances throughout Genesee County are scheduled for Monday.
New York Attorney General Letitia James has issued warnings to more than 30 online and brick-and-mortar retailers across the state to stop overcharging for baby formula after consumers reported unreasonably high prices. Due to recalls and supply chain disruptions, there has been a nationwide shortage of baby formula. New York’s price gouging statute prohibits merchants from charging excessive prices for essential goods or services during abnormal market disruptions. State residents are encouraged to report potential concerns about price gouging to James’s office by calling: 800-771-7755 or filing a complaint online. 
With a lot of people hitting the road for the holiday, police across New York State are going to be keeping a very close eye out for drunk drivers. It’s part of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee’s STOP-DWI campaign that runs from today through May 31st. Folks who are planning to drink are urged to make sure they have a safe ride home. Anyone who sees suspicious or dangerous activity while they’re traveling should dial 911 immediately.
The Department of Environmental Conservation reminds boaters and anglers to clean, drain and dry boats and trailers, and also disinfect fishing gear before enjoying the water; this will help to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Watercraft inspection stewards, also known as boat stewards, will be stationed at more than 225 boat launches statewide this weekend to educate and help the public in cleaning their equipment. They can be identified by their blue vests and are there to provide a refresher on how to inspect boats and gear. 
Memorial Day events, May 29 and May 30: