Pete Zehler
May 14, 2025 Genesee County Officials Searching for Cat
The Genesee County Health Department is asking for the public’s help in locating a cat and its owner after a bite incident last Thursday, May 8th, around 6 p.m.
The bite occurred in the Batavia Cemetery, located at 65 Harvester Avenue—directly across from The Harvester Center.
The cat was seen running loose in the cemetery. It’s described as a grey tiger cat of average size with medium-length hair. It was wearing a collar with two tags—one blue and one black.
The health department is hoping to locate the cat quickly to confirm it’s in good health. That confirmation is important, as it would indicate there was no risk of rabies transmission during the bite.
If you have any information about the whereabouts of the cat or its owner, you’re urged to contact the Genesee County Health Department at 585-344-2580 extension 5555.
Jail Phone Line Will Temporarily be Down
A quick heads up from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office — on Wednesday, May 14th at 8:30 a.m., the Genesee County Jail’s main phone line — 585-343-0838 — will not be able to receive incoming calls for about 30 minutes.
Outgoing calls and in-house county lines will still work during that time. The Sheriff’s Office thanks everyone for their patience during this brief disruption.
Erie County Home Explosion Kills Elderly Woman
13WHAM News reports, a deadly explosion in Hamburg,has left one person dead and another in critical condition. Emergency crews were called to West Lane at 8:45 p.m. Monday, where they found Joene Pease, 78, dead in the debris of the home. John Pease, 78, was critically injured and transported to Erie County Medical Center. Two nearby homes were also damaged. Captain John Baker from the Hamburg Police Department described the scene as catastrophic, stating that there was no house left. A firefighter and officer sustained minor injuries, and a dog is being treated. The cause of the explosion is still under investigation.
Batavia PD Holds Annual Awards Luncheon
The City of Batavia Police Department held its annual recognition luncheon on April 30, 2025, honoring the outstanding contributions of its members and community partners. Several officers and individuals were recognized for their dedication to the department and the city.
Sharon Nuwer, the department’s cleaner, received recognition for maintaining a safe and clean environment, while Brett Stevenson, Supervisor of Public Works, was thanked for his ongoing support with city events. The Honor Guard, including Detective Sgt. Matt Lutey and Officer Connor Borchert, was commended for its professionalism during numerous events.
Officer Samuel Freeman and Sergeant Arick Perkins earned recognition for their hard work in firearms training, while Officer Freeman and Officer Bryan Moscicki received the Life Saving Award for their heroic actions in saving a life in December 2024.
The Officer of the Year award went to Officer Andrew Mruczek, praised for his consistent professionalism, teamwork, and dedication to completing investigations.
The event serves as a testament to the department’s appreciation for its officers and community partners. Congratulations to all the recipients for their exceptional service!
Missing Dog in Bergen
A Blue Heeler has been missing since Saturday from the Griswold Road area in Bergen. The 4-year-old dog requires seizure medication, as the seizures can cause disorientation. If you spot him, do not chase or call out to him. Instead, please call or text any sightings to 585-630-8262. Your help in locating him is greatly appreciated.
Corrections Officers Fighting to get Jobs Back
In Rochester, the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) is processing complaints from corrections workers fired during a statewide strike in March. Around 600 workers have filed formal complaints seeking to be reinstated. So far, 66 officers have returned to work after filing grievances under the collective bargaining agreement.
The strike, which began in March, called for better working conditions inside prisons, leading to the termination of more than 2,000 workers. Some fired employees have filed grievances, claiming they were wrongfully terminated or not given due process, especially those on medical leave.
A former sergeant, speaking anonymously, said the current settlement would require workers to accept a three-year probation and admit to participating in the illegal strike. The state has begun holding meetings for employees hoping to return. Governor Kathy Hochul had previously issued an executive order barring the rehiring of these workers for any future state jobs.
Sports Scores
Here are the Genesee County high school baseball scores from Tuesday:
Le Roy fell short to Haverling, 2-3, in a close matchup.
Letchworth couldn’t keep up with Oakfield-Alabama, who won 14-7.
Pembroke struggled against Kendall, ending the game with a 0-9 score.
Notre Dame Batavia dominated Lyndonville with a 10-0 victory.
In a high-scoring game, Pavilion/York defeated Perry, 14-9.
Here are the Genesee County high school softball scores from Tuesday:
Batavia had a dominant performance, winning 19-0 over Monroe/SWW/East.
Alexander defeated Attica, 10-4, in a solid victory.
Wayland-Cohocton came out on top, beating Pavilion 9-1.
Oakfield-Alabama shut out Kendall, winning 12-0.
Byron-Bergen powered through Holley, securing a 16-4 win.
A search is still underway for a man that Ontario County authorities say should be considered armed and dangerous. Law enforcement tried to arrest 26-year-old Jonathan Matthews as part of an ongoing drug investigation in Canandaigua Monday. But Matthews was able to get away in a vehicle and triggered a pursuit that was called off to try and protect public safety. Matthews has an extensive criminal history and anyone with information on his whereabouts should report it immediately.
Cheektowaga authorities are investigating the death of a four-year-old boy who became unresponsive in a private pool yesterday. Police were called around 4:30 p.m. to a home on Constance Lane and found the child unresponsive. Emergency crews began life-saving efforts and transferred the boy to Oishei Children’s Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The investigation is ongoing.
A former substitute teacher with the Dansville Central School District will be spending decades behind bars. A judge has sentenced 33-year-old Derek Hagen to 20 years in prison on federal child pornography charges. Hagen pleaded guilty in 2022 for producing and having tens of thousands of disturbing images of minors that he shared with people on the internet. Once he’s released from custody, he’ll be on probation for 13 years.
Governor Hochul says she is committed to making sure millions of kids have access to free meals at school. Hochul’s plan would subsidize the cost of breakfast and lunch to help address food insecurity. The governor also says her proposal would help parents who may be struggling to feed their children save money. New York currently receives $2 billion in federal funding to support school meal programs.
Monroe County deputies are identifying the victim of a fatal motorcycle accident earlier this week. They say 46-year-old Neil Rogers was traveling near the intersection of West Ridge Road and Route 259 in Parma Wednesday when a car turned into his path. Rogers was rushed to a nearby hospital but later pronounced dead. Police ticketed the driver he collided with for failing to yield the right of way.
The former owner of Rapids Theatre has pled guilty to defrauding COVID relief programs out of more than a million dollars. Officials say 71-year-old John L. Hutchins conspired with co-defendant Roberto Soliman and others to file fraudulent loan applications for assistance under the Economic Injury Disaster Loan, Paycheck Protection and Shuttered Venue Operators Grant programs. The loans available for these programs were designed to provide emergency financial assistance under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. Hutchins faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a million dollar fine. Charges remain pending against Soliman.
Genesee Brewery is unveiling details of its brand-new $28 million canning line. The company says this line will allow Genesee to generate over 15 million additional cases of its products at the rapid clip of 15-hundred cans per minute. And, 10 of the almost 60 new jobs created thanks to an investment by Genesee’s parent company will involve direct work on the line. In addition to Genesee, Labatt, Lipton Hard Ice Tea and Seagrams will can its products locally.
Spring has arrived and that means it’s the perfect time for the annual Rochester Home and Garden Show. That event is happening tomorrow and Sunday at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center. Hundreds of exhibitors will be in attendance and folks can learn about things like renovations, remodeling, patios and decks. There is also going to be face painting for kids from 11:00am until 3:00pm. More details are available online.
Despite a valiant effort, the Sabres couldn’t hold and lost 5-2 to the Utah Hockey Club last night. JJ Peterka and Ryan McLeod both scored for Buffalo in the loss. The currently last place Sabres will take the ice Saturday afternoon as their road trip continues; they face the Minnesota Wild with face-off at 2:00.
And this week 49 years ago in 1976, Genesis began its first North American tour since Peter Gabriel left the band the previous year. The road trip started in Buffalo. Drummer Phil Collins took over as lead singer.
With only 6 weeks to go until the federal REAL ID Act becomes enforceable, the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles is encouraging state residents to make sure they are prepared. Beginning on May 7, 2025, anyone going through airport security to fly domestically or attempting to enter secure federal facilities will be required to have a REAL ID or another form of compliant identification such as an Enhanced ID or Passport. For those who need to upgrade their state-issued ID before May 7, the DMV is strongly encouraging them to act as soon as possible. 
A rising star in the world of country music joins the list of performers at this year’s New York State Fair. Kameron Marlowe is set to take the Chevy Court stage Saturday, August 23rd at 6:00pm. Marlowe is best known for his hit song “Giving You Up” which has been streamed more than 100 million times on Spotify. The show is free with admission to the fair, which runs from August 20th through September 1st.
Governor Kathy Hochul is making a last-minute push for a mask ban in New York. It’s not going on publicly — it’s all going on behind closed doors in Albany in the Governor’s state budget talks with lawmakers. There’s word that she’s likely to get behind a bill by Bronx Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz and Orange Senator James Skoufis. It doesn’t ban masks outright, but would hike the penalty for harassment when someone deliberately hides their face while menacing or threatening violence against others. The bill is supported by the NAACP and the Anti-Defamation League. 
Forecasters are warning those with seasonal allergies that pollen counts will be higher than usual across much of the U.S. this year. A senior meteorologist at AccuWeather said Thursday that pollen counts would exceed historical averages in 39 states as the warm weather approaches. The experts say those who suffer from allergies should prepare for an intense allergy season that could linger into autumn. They say allergy seasons across the country are lasting one to four weeks longer than they did 50 years ago because of changing climate conditions. 
The City of Batavia Police Department has released their 2024-year in review. They handled 1120 domestic incidents; responded to 803 disturbance calls; investigated 920 reported larcenies and responded to 715 mental health incidents. 264 total warrants were processed and made 635 arrests, 22 of which were juveniles. City Police also investigated 493 automobile crashes, with 70 of the accidents resulting in personal injury. They conducted 3,207 traffic stops and issued 1,790 traffic tickets, and issued 1,729 parking violations. Batavia City Police also remember Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, who died in the line of duty on March 10, 2024 while working a security detail at Batavia Downs. They rendered aid immediately and then took over the criminal investigation. Both suspects were apprehended on location and charged with homicide. Both entered into plea agreements and have been sentenced. Sgt. Sanfratello was a dispatcher for City Police prior to becoming a Deputy at the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.
State Police are revealing the results of their latest Saint Patrick’s Day enforcement initiative. From Friday March 14th through Monday, March 17th 239 people were arrested for DWI, including 27 in the Finger Lakes and Western New York. There were over 11,000 tickets handed out statewide for traffic violations like speeding and distracted driving. During 2024’s enforcement campaign 8,800 tickets were issued and 217 DWI arrests were made.
The Erie County Department of Personnel sent a memo yesterday calling for fired corrections officers to be excluded from being hired for any civil service job in local government. This comes after Governor Kathy Hochul passed an executive order that bans those officers from being rehired in the state again. Peter Anderson, a spokesman for the county administration, said they follow the guidance of New York State Civil Service in these matters, and that if the state amends its guidance in the future, Erie County will adopt that amended guidance.
The East Aurora School District is responding after claims of racism among their students. Superintendent of schools Brian Russ said in a statement that there have been several incidents of racial discrimination that have occurred within the schools. He added that racism has no place in their schools and everyone must be committed to creating a safe environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
An Ontario County firefighter is now in trouble with the law after being arrested on an arson charge. It’s alleged 19-year-old Joshua Musgrove intentionally set a dumpster on fire in the rear parking lot of the Foster Block Apartments on Crane Street in Clifton Springs Tuesday. Musgrove then responded to the scene with members of his fire department and helped knock down the flames. No one was hurt and Musgrove will be in court at a later date.
A driver has been ticketed following a crash in Parma that left a motorcyclist dead. Authorities say the motorcyclist was traveling near the intersection of West Ridge Road and Route 259 yesterday when a car turned in front of him. The man, whose name has not been released. was brought to a nearby hospital but couldn’t be saved. The person behind the wheel of the car was cited for failing to yield the right of way.
For the first time in franchise history, the Buffalo Sabres will be taking the ice in Utah tonight. The Sabres are set to battle the Utah Hockey Club at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. Buffalo is currently on a two-game winning streak after beating the Boston Bruins three to two in overtime on Monday night. Face-off for their contest this evening is scheduled for 9:00. 
Organizers have set the date for this year’s Rochester Pride Parade and Festival. The parade steps off on July 19th at the corner of South Avenue and Science Parkway before ending at Highland Park. Last year’s event drew a record crowd of roughly 20,000 people which made it the largest Pride celebration in Rochester’s history. Admission for the festival is five dollars but kids 12 and under are free. For more details, visit trilliumhealth.org.
48-year-old Jennifer Moscicki of Batavia has been arrested and charged with petit larceny. It’s alleged she stole merchandise from Aldi. Moscicki was issued an appearance ticket to return to court. ALSO: 49-year-old Kelly Mungo of Batavia was arrested for petit larceny, after allegedly stealing merchandise from Aldi. She was issued an appearance ticket. ALSO: 31-year-old Mercedes Ramon-Rodriguez of Batavia was arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child. She allegedly left a 3-year-old child home alone. Ramon-Rodriguez was issued an appearance ticket for City Court next Tuesday, March 25th. ALSO: 20-year-old Jazmyn R. Bater of Batavia was arrested by City Police and charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Bater allegedly struck another person in the head several times, while the other person was holding a child. Bater was issued an appearance ticket. ALSO: 38-year-old Jennifer Wilson of Auburndale, Florida was arrested on a bench warrant. Wilson was initially charged with criminal trespass, obstructing governmental administration, and resisting arrest, following an incident on February 26, 2024. The warrant was issued after Wilson failed to appear in court. She was arraigned in CAP Court and is scheduled to appear in City Court at a later date.
Governor Hochul says more than $270 million in funding will be used to preserve over 1,800 affordable homes across New York. In our region, money is going towards the Fine Arts Building Lofts and Fernwood Avenue Apartments in Rochester as well as the Creekside Clearing Redevelopment in Livonia. The governor believes that the solution to the state’s housing crisis is building more homes. She’s also expressing support for passing legislation to expand the Low-Income Housing Tax credit.
Erie County officials have announced that they’re filing a lawsuit against the Corporation for National and Community Service, also known as Americorps. The decision comes after the agency ended a grant program that funded the placement of hundreds of senior volunteers. Erie County officials say Americorps wants to take it away because of President Donald Trump’s executive order, which seeks to end support for diversity, equity, and inclusion purposes.
A judge has ruled to uphold a law that limits how much money state lawmakers can earn in outside income. That income limit went into effect this past January, and there are nearly 40 lawmakers whose outside income surpasses the $35,000 per year barrier. This legislation was aimed at reducing any conflicts of interest connected with outside employment. Some legislators have already filed a notice of appeal.
Governor Kathy Hochul says the tariff war between Canada and the U.S. is continuing to hit New York State hard. Hochul says the average New York family may end up paying up to $3,000 more over the course of a year if the tariffs remain in effect that long. Hochul says fewer Canadians are crossing the border to visit. She says that’s the word she got from Manhattan hotel managers as well as theaters in Buffalo. Hochul says the tariffs are also going to make it harder to build more housing at a time when there is a severe housing shortage in the state.
A traffic alert for you: The Town of Batavia Water Department is finishing a water service line project on Shepard Road, near the intersection of Ellicott Street Road today tomorrow, Wednesday, March 19th from 7:00am until 4:00pm. Traffic is closed off from Shepard Road in the area the work is being performed. Please plan to use an alternate route. As is always the case, when the water is restored, it may be discolored. Folks in the effected area should refrain from doing laundry until the water runs clear.
State Attorney General Letitia James has taken action to protect New Yorkers from unwanted robocalls. Together with 27 other attorneys general, James filed a brief to support and defend a rule by the Federal Communications Commission that stops telemarketers from obtaining and selling consumers’ phone numbers to robocallers without their consent. The coalition writes that the rule is effective by targeting robocalls at one of their sources: the point where consumer contact information is first obtained. In addition, they argue that the FCC’s rule protects consumers by providing them with clear and conspicuous disclosures when consenting to sharing their contact information with a seller, such as a website that they use to search for products or receive a quote on a service.
The deadline to pass a new state budget is two weeks away, and lawmakers say an agreement could be reached on time. Governor Hochul is proposing $252 billion dollars in spending while the Assembly and Senate are calling for $256 billion and $259 billion, respectively. Negotiations will now center on coming up with a compromise on the budget’s final price tag as well as policy issues that’ll be part of it. Some of those items include inflation rebate checks, prison oversight and reforms and solar tax credits.
A fraud investigation is ongoing against a former worker at the Department of Public Works. The Niagara County District Attorney’s Office said that person was employed by the city for over 14 years and the investigation is in relation to compensation. The former employee has not been formally charged. No other information has been released.
A new bus driver shortage plan at Sweet Home Central School District is causing parents to be upset. The Board of Education’s new plan has students walking to school if they are living within a quarter of a mile away. Some parents said that they’re concerned over the lack of supervision with streets and no crossing guards, predators and severe weather conditions. Parents had placed a petition on 
Keeping teeth healthy doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just the basics. That includes brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing. The Health Policy Institute says it’s also important to get regular dental checkups and cleanings. Twice a year is what’s recommended. The American Dental Association says fluoride matters because it has the power to fight cavities and tooth decay. They recommend fluoride toothpaste and using a toothbrush with soft, rather than hard bristles to avoid scraping off tooth enamel or damaging your gums.
Western New York drivers continue to hand over less of their hard-earned money when it comes time to fill their vehicles, as gas prices continue to inch their way closer to $3.00. As of this afternoon, Triple A says the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.08. The state average sits at $3.11. In Batavia, the average figures out to $3.15 per gallon; that’s the same as it was a week ago; down three cents from a month ago and down a dime from a year ago today.
A traffic alert for you: The Town of Batavia Water Department will be replacing a water service line on Shepard Road, near the intersection of Ellicott Street Road on Tuesday and Wednesday, March 18th and 19th from 7:00am until 4:00pm. Traffic will be closed on Shepard Road in the area the work is being performed. Please plan to use an alternate route. As is always the case, when the water is restored, it may be discolored. Folks in the effected area should refrain from doing laundry until the water runs clear.
The City of Buffalo set a record-high daily temperature yesterday (Sunday, 3/16/25). Temperatures reached 75-degrees as recorded by the National Weather Service breaking the old record of 70-degrees set back in 1990. However, rain and strong winds washed out the St. Patrick’s Parade, sending revelers to dryer spots indoors.
The Buffalo Sabres will be kicking off their four-game road trip tonight in search of a second straight victory. The Sabres are visiting the Boston Bruins in a showdown between the two bottom teams in the NHL’s Atlantic Division. Buffalo last played Saturday when they beat the Vegas Golden Knights in a shootout by a final score of 4 – 3. Face-off this evening is set for 7:00.
Tax season is in full swing and the Better Business Bureau is warning the public to beware of scammers. The latest scam involves a text claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service that advises the recipient they qualify for a $1,400 check as part of the Economic Impact Payment rebate. It also contains a link, but don’t click on it. The BBB says it leads to a fake but convincing IRS website designed to steal personal and financial information often used for identity theft or fraud. Anyone eligible for the $1,400 stimulus check will receive it by mail and the IRS will never ask for your personal information through text, email or phone call.
Wholesale egg prices are coming down. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is reporting that the national average wholesale price of a dozen eggs dropped $2.70 last week, landing at $4.15. That marks three weeks of declining prices, according to the USDA.
With the measles outbreak in Texas and New Mexico and isolated cases in 13 other states topping 300 cases, there’s a warning from pediatricians. If your child contracts measles, they could develop a degenerative neurological condition seven to ten years later for which there’s no cure. It’s called subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, or SSPE. Pediatricians say it’s almost always fatal. The CDC says the best protection is the measles vaccine.
A Stafford woman has been arrested by the Genesee County Sheriffs and charged with falsely reporting an incident. It’s alleged that 31-year-old Rebecca Harrington reported something to law enforcement that did not occur. Harrington was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled for Town of Stafford Court on April 10.
The Town of Bethany is receiving a big financial boost following a water crisis in 2023; they’ll be receiving $5 million from New York State to help form a new water district. Town leaders unanimously approved the formation of a public water district with Batavia after wells in the town went dry for months late in 2023, prompting a state of emergency amid a shortage. State officials said the new infrastructure would provide public drinking water to roughly 1,000 people.
After a few years of decline, data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows the population in Rochester and surrounding areas rose in 2024. Monroe, Ontario and Wayne counties were among the over 65% of counties nationwide that showed population growth. The years 2020 through 2023 saw population numbers drop, most likely due to the affects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The reason for this latest bump is tied to international migration and a higher birth rate. In case you’re wondering, the City of Batavia’s projected population in 2025 reflects an increase of a tenth of a percent (.1%), from 15,437 to 15,447; and according to the most recent data available, the Town of Batavia’s population at this time is 6,296, a growth rate of a third of a percent (.33%).
The state will have a ban on residential brush burning from March 16 to May 14 due to the increased risk of wildfires. Since 2009, the state Department of Environmental Conservation has enforced the annual brush-burning ban to prevent wildfires and protect communities during heightened conditions for wildfires. When temperatures warm and the past fall’s debris and leaves dry out, wildfires can start and spread easily, further fueled by winds and a lack of green vegetation. Small backyard fire pits ad campfires less than three feet in height and four feet in length, width, or diameter are allowed, as are small cooking fires. People should never leave these fires unattended and must extinguish them. Burning garbage or leaves is prohibited year-round in New York State.
The start of spring is just a week away, and the state Department of Environmental Conservation is offering safety tips to hikers. The DEC says people should keep an eye on the weather and stop their hikes if conditions worsen. It is also recommended hikers carry a backpack with essentials such as food, water and extra batteries in case they get lost or have an emergency. Also, they should never travel alone and let someone know where they’re going. For more information, visit dec.ny.gov.
The Buffalo Sabres came up short of picking up a second straight win after a disappointing loss on the road. Tage Thompson, Josh Norris and Zach Benson each had a goal, but their team still fell to the Detroit Red Wings by a final score of seven to three at Little Caesars Arena last night. Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen faced 29 shots in the contest and stopped 22 of them. Buffalo’s next game is Saturday when they host the Vegas Golden Knights. The puck drops at 12:30 (face-off is at 12:30)/
A New York woman is suing the Girl Scouts after claiming their cookies contain heavy metals. The class action suit filed this week is asking for $5 million from the organization after a study showed that Girl Scout Cookies contained lead, arsenic, mercury and aluminum. The Girl Scouts released a statement last month saying, “heavy metals can occur naturally in soil” and they are not added to the cookies. An article in Forbes later confirmed that the FDA and USDA both allow residues of metals in foods at levels deemed non-harmful, and said, “there is no evidence that the cookies pose a health risk.”
New data shows the number of flu cases remains high across the Western New York region. During the week ending March 1st, the area with the highest infection tally was Monroe County with 974. That was followed by Erie County with 623, Niagara County had 236, Livingston County, 108, Genesee County and Wyoming County reported 98 and 57, respectively. Experts continue to say the best way to keep yourself and others protected is to practice good hygiene and get a flu shot. Additional information is available anytime at 
The seven suspects arrested in connection with the death of a transgender man have returned to court. Yesterday, those individuals pleaded not guilty for their alleged roles in the murder of Sam Nordquist. Prosecutors claim Nordquist was tortured for more than a month before his body was dumped in Yates County. This case is not being treated as a hate crime and the suspects face life in prison if convicted.
The New York State Department of Taxation and Finance wants you to know that Direct File is now available to many individuals who receive Form 1099-R. That’s the form that identifies distributions from pensions, annuities, retirement, and Individual Retirement Accounts. Direct File is free for New York State taxpayers with basic returns. Here’s detailed information: 
The state Department of Motor Vehicles is calling on New Yorkers to check for safety recalls that could affect their vehicle. The agency says one in five registered vehicles in the Empire State has an open, unfixed recall that might put motorists at risk. That total includes thousands of vehicles equipped with Takata airbags that have caused the deaths of dozens of people nationwide. A full list of recalls can be found online at 
Governor Kathy Hochul is calling for New York Schools to be phone free. Yesterday Hochul and Common Sense Media held a youth roundtable in Albany to discuss the benefits of removing smartphones from schools. Hochul and Common Sense Media both support proposed legislation that would label mental health risks on social media, limit stranger interaction with kids online, and limit addictive social media design features. Hochul says she’s going to continue to fight for this legislation and wants to see a “bell-to-bell distraction free environment” in schools.
An Olean man is facing up to twenty years in prison in a child pornography case. Yesterday 48-year-old Greg Hirliman pleaded guilty to attempted receipt of child pornography in federal court. Prosecutors say between September of 2021 and July of 2022, Hirliman engaged in sexual communications through Facebook with a minor victim. He also made several requests for naked images from the victim according to prosecutors. Hirliman is scheduled to be sentenced on July 21st.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Junior is speaking out about the measles outbreak in Texas, suggesting that Vitamin-A can “dramatically” reduce deaths. Doctors are afraid that some parents might take this as meaning the supplement is the same as the vaccine. Dr. Sapna Singh at Texas Children’s Hospital says there is not a single study that suggests vitamins can prevent infections. There are nearly 200-measles cases in Texas. The epicenter remains a section of West Texas that has the lowest vaccination rates in the state.
A Rochester man is in some serious trouble with the law after being accused of having hundreds of images of child pornography. An investigation began after Google notified the National Center For Missing and Exploited Children that Daniel Walsh’s account uploaded disturbing images last November. A search warrant was executed at his home and officers found those images. Walsh has been arraigned and released and faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office says it has taken three suspects in connection to a burglary at an East Rochester car dealership. They were called overnight to the Van Bortel Ford dealership on Marsh Road for a burglary in progress. Deputies say the three were taken into custody after a brief investigation. They did not report on any damage or on any stolen items.
A former USPS worker in West Seneca is facing five years in prison for stealing mail. 37-year-old Christopher Porter pleaded guilty to mail theft yesterday in federal court. Prosecutors say Porter rifled through mail and stole an envelope containing a Wegmans gift card and a Target gift card in 2021. He then admitted to giving those gift cards to his wife. Porter is scheduled to be sentenced on July 18th.
Saint Patrick’s Day is under a week away, and police statewide will be doing their part to keep people safe before and after their celebrations. Law enforcement are cracking down on drivers who get behind the wheel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol through March 17th. During last year’s Saint Patrick’s Day enforcement campaign, there were 935 motorists arrested for DWI and nearly 25-thousand traffic tickets issued. Anyone who sees dangerous activity on the roads should dial 911 immediately.
The union representing employees at Mercy Hospital of Buffalo are demanding action after a patient shot himself in the emergency room on Sunday night. Yesterday, leaders with Communications Workers of America Local 1133 held a press conference calling for increased safety protocols to protect healthcare workers, patients, and visitors. This incident happened amid negotiations between the union and Catholic Health.
State Attorney General Letitia James, along with a coalition of seven other attorneys general, have filed a lawsuit against the United States Department of Education for unlawfully canceling teacher pipeline grant programs that were authorized by Congress. The Teacher Quality Partnership and Supporting Effective Educator Development grant programs support K-12 teacher development efforts, improve student achievement, and help create a new teacher pipeline to fill positions in hard-to-staff schools in rural and urban areas. The coalition is seeking a temporary restraining order to urgently restore funding and access to these programs.
Daylight saving time begins Sunday, and the Firefighters Association of the State of New York says the clock change should serve as a reminder for people to test the batteries in their smoke alarms. Experts say doing so can help prevent a tragedy in your home if there is a fire. It’s also recommended that everyone practice their fire escape plan to make sure they know a way out of their residence in case of an emergency. For more life-saving tips, go to 
State Attorney General Letitia James has organized a settlement with Saturn Technologies, a developer of an app called Saturn used by high school students. The company failed to protect young users’ privacy. The app allows students to create a personal calendar, message other members, share social media accounts, join groups, and know where other uses are based on their calendars. Saturn Technologies claimed the app only allowed users from the same high school to interact with each other. However, an investigation found that the company failed to verify users’ school email and age to ensure safety. As a result of the settlement, Saturn Technologies must pay $650,000 in penalties to the state and significantly change its practices to protect users.
Gas prices more or less continue to hold steady. Triple A reports today the average price for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.11. The state average is at $3.15. In Batavia, the average figures out to $3.14 per gallon; that’s a penny less than it was a week ago; four cents lower than a month ago; and 11 cents cheaper than it was a year ago today.
Casting Buffalo is calling for actors of all backgrounds to join the cast of Hallmark’s “Newport Christmas.” Actors ages 18 and up of all genders and ethnicities can play a variety of background roles, including Christmas formal guests, violin busker, Santa Clauses, and more. Featured roles include a handsome, gilded bachelor, and a 6-8 year old child. Filming will take place in Buffalo and Youngstown between March 17 and April 3. Non-union affiliated extras will earn $192 a day while union affiliated extras will earn $216 a day. Personal information, including a resume and headshot, can be submitted by emailing 
Bart Dentino will be on hand at Batavia First Presbyterian, 300 East Main Street, Batavia, on Thursday evening, March 20th, from 6:30 to 8:00 to perform a selection of music that includes original compositions, and songs from James Taylor, Gordon Lightfoot, The Beatles and others. The event is free and open to the public; however, donations are welcome and appreciated. All proceeds benefit and support the Genesee Wyoming County Warming Center, during the cold, winter nights.
A flood watch in addition to a wind advisory remains in effect for all eight counties in Western New York. A rapid warm-up this week will lead to a fast melt of the area’s snow pack and increase the risk for flooding. City of Buffalo crews have been preparing for the possibility of ice jams, which are more likely to form in a body of water’s S-curves, in the Buffalo River and Cazenovia Creek. At this time, there are no threats of flooding near the Tonawanda Creek in Batavia. To monitor this yourself, go to 
50-year-old Colleen Hutchinson of Batavia has been arrested by the Genesee County Sheriffs. She’s charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, operating a motor vehicle without stop lamp and having an uninspected motor vehicle. The arrest followed a traffic stop, during which it’s alleged Hutchinson was in possession of crack cocaine and narcotic equipment used to smoke the crack cocaine. She was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court on March 19th. ALSO: 44-year-old Clint Towne of Batavia has been arrested and charged with criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a large capacity ammunition-feeding device. The possession of both is alleged following Towne’s arrest on his property for a separate incident. He was released back into the custody of the Genesee County Jail. Towne was scheduled for Genesee County CAP Court.
Despite a valiant comeback, the Sabres couldn’t edge out Montreal and lost 4-3 in overtime. Alex Tuch and Tage Thompson scored the first two goals for Buffalo to ignite their comeback. Rasmus Dahlin added a goal of his own in the late stages of the third period to tie the game and force overtime. The Sabres couldn’t keep the momentum going however, and lost after a goal by Montreal’s Mike Matheson. Buffalo returns home to host the San Jose Sharks tonight; the puck drops at 7:00.
Later sunsets will begin this weekend. Residents are reminded they should set their clocks ahead one hour at 2:00am Sunday. This marks the start of Daylight Saving Time but also brings more daylight with it. The sun is expected to rise before 7:30 a.m. on Sunday and set just after 7:00 p.m.
And some good news to report: Anneka Pray, the 18-year-old Pembroke graduate who was critically injured a week ago in a motor vehicle accident near Syracuse, is said to be making “amazing progress,” according to Tracy Rudolph, the organizer of a GoFundMe page to assist the family. Pray, who has been blind since birth, sustained a traumatic brain injury. Pray was heavily sedated and minimally responsive shortly after the accident. As of last Friday, she has been moved out of the ICU to a bed on the pediatric floor. Anneka is eating, drinking, talking and walking and will be transferred to neurology rehab next week.
Athletes covet smelling salts but scientist may have found something even better. Researchers at Mass General Brigham studied the effects of an antibody based nasal spray on brain-injured mice. The spray seemed to improve the brain’s natural healing process while simultaneously reducing damaging inflammation. The findings could lead to a preventive treatment against the long-tern implications of traumatic brain injuries and other conditions like stroke. According to the CDC, more than 200,000 Americans were hospitalized in 2023 for a traumatic brain injury while almost 70,000 died from them.
25-year-old Rashad Cordell of Rochester has been arrested by the Sheriffs in Batavia and is charged with criminal possession of stolen property and aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle. It’s alleged that Cordell was in possession of a stolen vehicle. He’s being held at the Genesee County Jail pending arraignment. ALSO: 56-year-old Robert Leiser of Alabama was arrested by Genesee County Sheriffs for hindering prosecution. It’s alleged Leiser allowed Marc Cook, Sr. to live on his property, knowing he had active felony warrants. Leiser was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled to return to Batavia Town Court on March 18th. ALSO: 54-year-old Dana Powers of Batavia has been arrested and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, as well as aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle and operating a motor vehicle without stop lamps. Sheriffs stopped Powers’ vehicle on Ellicott Street for a traffic violation. Following investigation, it’s alleged Powers possessed a controlled substance. Powers was released with an appearance ticket to return to the City of Batavia Court on March 18th pursuant to his charges.
St. Paul Lutheran School’s Annual Auction is scheduled for Saturday, March 15th. An opportunity to browse items begins at 3:30 with the live auction starting at 4:00. Auctioneer David Kent will be on hand at the school for the event, at 31 Washington Avenue.
The Alexander Fire Department is hosting a Fisherman’s Flea Market on Saturday, March 29th from 9am until 1:00pm. Used rods, reels, custom baits, tackle and more will be available at the Alexander Firemen’s Rec Hall. Admission is $3; children 12 and under are free. Lunch is available for purchase.
The Batavia City School District is now accepting registration applications for universal pre-kindergarten and kindergarten programs for the 2025-26 school year. For more information, call 585-343-2480 or visit bataviacsd.org/registration. The deadline to register is May 1st.
A majority of Americans say their paychecks are not keeping up with inflation. According to a survey from CBS News/YouGov, 77% of Americans say they can’t keep up with rising costs. A majority of respondents, 62%, say they’ve only seen prices go up in the last few weeks. People have mixed predictions when it comes to the economy’s future with 34% saying it will grow, another 22% saying it will hold steady, and another 44% saying it will either slow or head into a recession. At least 70% of people are worried about savings and buying extras while 53% are just worried about being able to afford groceries and housing.
60-year-old Raymond Dick of Batavia, along with Sandra Marsceill, have been arrested and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance. It’s alleged they were in possession of a controlled substance in a parking lot on Veterans Memorial Drive. Both Dick and Marsceill were released on appearance tickets.
The Rochester International Jazz Festival is coming up this summer, and the event has a brand-new title sponsor. It is now going to be known as the Rochester International Jazz Festival in partnership with Rochester Regional Health. RRH is an integrated health system that provides services throughout Western New York and it’s also the region’s second-largest employer. The festival starts June 20th, and more details are available online.
There will be a meeting this evening at Batavia Town Hall starting at 6:00. The New York Green Project received funding from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds for design of a proposed new public park. It will be located on a property owned by the Town of Batavia, located on Park Road in the city. The agenda tonight includes sharing and soliciting public feedback on the conceptual design for the proposed new park.
A brand-new version of the popular board game Monopoly has been released, and it features the City of Rochester. The official unveiling took place yesterday at the Strong National Museum of Play. This special edition features landmarks like Highland Park and the Rochester Institute of Technology as well as items such as garbage plates and lilacs. The game is available for $44.99 and can be purchased at 
The Buffalo Sabres kept their winning ways going last night at the KeyBank Center. JJ Peterka, Alex Tuch and Henri Jokiharju all scored goals in the third period to dig Buffalo out of a two-goal deficit and defeat the Anaheim Ducks 3-2. The Sabres have now won six straight games on their home ice, which is the longest streak since November 2018. Buffalo hits the ice again tomorrow as they travel to play the Carolina Hurricanes.
44-year-old Nicole Woodruff of Batavia has been arrested. She’s charged with grand larceny, criminal mischief and possession of burglar tools. It’s alleged Woodruff entered Dick’s Sporting Goods, concealed several pieces of merchandise after cutting the security tags off of them, and exited to store without providing payment. Woodruff was issued an appearance ticket and is due to appear in Batavia Town Court on March 11. ALSO: 54-year-old Kevin Knickerbocker of Byron has been charged with criminal contempt after being arrested by the Sheriffs. He allegedly failed to abide by an order of protection out of Byron Town Court. Knickerbocker was arraigned in CAP Court in front of Judge Mattice.
Drivers feeding gas pumps are finding prices are holding steady. According to Triple A this afternoon, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.14. The state average is $3.17. In Batavia, the average price for a gallon of regular gas is also $3.17; that’s a penny cheaper than it was a week and a month ago and 14 cents lower than what we were paying a year ago today.
A teenage bicyclist from Corfu was killed in a vehicle crash in the Town of Alabama. According to Sheriff’s, 17-year-old Arthur Breton the Third was riding his bicycle north in the northbound lane of Tesnow Road when he collided with 37-year-old Daphne Sundown of Basom, who was also traveling northbound with her son. Sundown reportedly was unable to see Breton when she struck him, ejecting him from his bicycle. Both Sundown and her son attempted to administer aid to Breton and called 9-1-1. Alabama and Pembroke Fire Departments responded and attempted to save Breton’s life, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. Drugs and alcohol were ruled out as factors. The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the crash with the assistance of its own Crash Management Team. Alabama and Pembroke firefighters, Mercy EMS and several bystanders also assisted at the scene.
Flags statewide were lowered to half-staff today to mark the third anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Those flags will be down from sunrise until sunset before landmarks are illuminated in blue and yellow, which are the colors of the Ukrainian flag. In our area, those landmarks include Niagara Falls and Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal. Governor Hochul says New York proudly stands with Ukraine in its fight against Russia’s assault.
City of Batavia residents that own property and pay utility costs have an opportunity to learn more and speak up about the proposed 2025-26 budget. A City Council conference session is scheduled for 7:00pm Monday on the second floor of City Hall. A direct link to the detailed story written by Joanne Beck for TheBatavian is available here: 
Organizers of the Lilac Festival have announced the musical acts that’ll headline this year’s event. Among the artists scheduled to perform include The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Cruel Summer, Katie Pruitt, The Aces and Chayce Beckham. The Lilac Festival goes from May 9th through the 18th at Highland Park in Rochester. To find out the full schedule, head to cityofrochester.gov.
This weekend, the Legends and Stars Sports Collectors Expo will have several former Buffalo Football, Hockey and Basketball Players, Hall of Fame Hockey Athletes and Buffalo born actor, Chad Michael Murray, present inside of the Park Place Events Center at Batavia Downs located at 8315 Park Road, Batavia. The Memorabilia Show with vendors will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, February 22 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, February 23. Kids 12 and under are FREE. Admission for all others is $10. Paid admission receives $10 in Free Play on the Gaming Floor. Full details including autograph prices are available on Legendsandstars.net.
Wegmans is joining the list of supermarket chains limiting the number of eggs customers can purchase. The company’s website says people can only buy up to 10 cartons of a dozen eggs or 18-count eggs with a maximum of 180. National retailers and supermarkets are putting restrictions on egg purchases because of a shortage caused by an avian flu outbreak. Egg prices have nearly doubled in the last year from $2.52 last February to $4.95 last month.
An Ontario County grand jury has indicted five suspects in connection with the murder of a transgender man. The defendants are each facing at least one felony charge for their alleged roles in the death of Sam Nordquist. He was reported missing by family members in Ontario County earlier this month before his body was later discovered in Yates County. The suspects will be in court at a later date after their appearance today was cancelled.
One person is dead and two are injured after a crash on Alexander Road. Officials say 54-year-old Anya Rambuski of Batavia was traveling northeast on Route 98 in the town of Alexander when she lost control and went into the southwest lane, striking a Jeep. Rambuski was pronounced dead at the scene. The occupants of the Jeep sustained minor injuries.
In case you’re heading in either direction, a lake effect snow warning remains in effect for Orleans and Monroe Counties until 1:00 Wednesday afternoon; heavy lake effect snow is predicted, with additional accumulations of 8 to 16 inches possible in the most persistent lake snows. Winds could gust to 35 mph. Travel will be very difficult in the areas of blowing snow. If driving through these areas, be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions and visibilities.
We aren’t seeing much of a change in the price of gas when it comes time to fill up. Triple A says the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel right now is $3.16. The state average is $3.18. In Batavia, the average price is also $3.18; that’s the same as it was a week ago, down a penny from a month ago and it’s a nickel lower than it was a year ago today.
A potential safety hazard has led to a voluntary recall of granola bars, some of which are sold locally at Walmart. There is a very small risk that some of the MadeGood brand granola bar products made between January and November 2024 may contain a piece of metal. The source of the issue has been identified and corrected. There have been no reports of injury. Please check your pantry and return recalled products to the store for a full refund. If you believe you have one of the recalled products, and want more information, call 855-215-5695 between 8am and 5pm.
Ritts said three out of the five suspects have previous criminal convictions. Sage and Goodwin are both currently on parole. Sage was convicted of larceny and disseminating indecent material to a minor. Goodwin was convicted of first-degree criminal sex act and sexual abuse involving a victim under the age of 11. He’s a registered Level 3 sex offender. “Precious Arzuaga has four misdemeanor convictions,” Ritts added. “Nothing sexual, but petty larcenies, criminal trespass and a sale of an imitation control substance.” Authorities said Nordquist was living at Patty’s Lodge in Hopewell after traveling from Minnesota.
A rare letter valued at $150,000 written by George Washington is up for sale. A Raab Collection spokesperson said it was written during the Revolutionary War, where the General had fought for independence from Britain for two years. In the letter, Washington praised colonists at the heart of the American Revolution and the spirit of the colonists to take up their own arms to fight off the British oppressors. It’s eight by 12 inches, hand written on both sides of one sheet and has a smudged fingerprint near Washington’s signature.
Egg prices continue to soar. According to a new report from the USDA over the weekend, wholesale egg prices jumped forty-cents over the last 30 days; that means a dozen eggs costs distributors $7.44. That has yet to be fully passed down to consumers, with the national average price for a dozen eggs $4.95 in January. That is expected to climb with shortages continuing and distributors passing down the risings costs to shoppers. The rising number of bird flu cases is being blamed for ongoing egg shortages.
The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory, in effect until 6:00pm this evening. Sustained west winds of 20 to 30 mph are predicted, with gusts up to 50 mph. Bitterly cold wind chills will result, and make it feel as low as 20 degrees below zero. Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. With all of this in mind, a cold weather advisory is also in effect through 10:00am tomorrow morning. The bitter cold will cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. If you must be outside, be sure to cover all exposed skin.
A hazardous weather outlook has been issued by the National Weather Service and we all know what that means. A few inches of snow will fall off and on throughout the day on Saturday with Sunday promising to be the messier day. Stay tuned to WBTA for weather updates throughout the weekend.
A new strain of mpox has been confirmed in New York for the first time. The New York State Department of Health issued a health advisory Wednesday, saying a new strain of the viral disease has been confirmed in a person with symptoms who had recently traveled to Africa. The department says the risk to the public is currently low, as there are no other known cases at this time. Mpox is rarely fatal, but can be dangerous to people with weak immune systems. The new strain is reportedly more infectious. Individuals infected with mpox are urged to stay isolated until their symptoms are resolved.
The Buffalo Bills are calling on artists of all skill levels for an art program at the new Highmark Stadium. The team says they are looking to create a permanent art presence in the stadium, which is slated to open next year. Art should capture the essence of Bills fans and the diverse demographics of Buffalo. Calls for wall-based artwork, murals and sculptural ceiling art will open later this month. Artists will be selected in the summer. People interested can visit 
The next Bethany Fire Department’s all-you-can-eat-breakfast will be held on Sunday, March 9th from 8am until noon, or until sold out. It’s happening at the Bethany Community Center and they’ll be serving scrambled eggs, pancakes, two meats, sausage gravy and biscuits, home fries, toast, juice and coffee. The cost is $12 for adults; $5 for children age 7 to 12; and kids 6 and under eat for free. For more information, call 585-356-2658.
Car enthusiasts from around the state will be heading to Syracuse over the next couple of days to check out the annual Syracuse Auto Expo. The event continues today at the Oncenter on South State Street and will wrap up on Sunday. The Syracuse Automobile Dealers Association has been putting on this show since 1907 and there will be hundreds of vehicles located throughout the building. More information, including a list of events and ticket prices, can be found at 
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of a deadly fire last Thursday at a home on Vine Street in Batavia. Three young children, including a 10-year-old boy who eventually died from his injuries, were rescued from the fire. As of yesterday, the 12-year-old victim remains in critical condition at United Memorial Medical Center. The 4-year-old victim, who was also previously in critical condition, is now alert. Two police officers and one firefighter were treated for minor injuries and resumed working, according to police. Anyone with information on the fire is asked to contact the Batavia Police Department at (585) 345-6444.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand wants to set a limit for how much you pay for your prescription medication and is backing something called the Capping Prescription Drug Act. Gillibrand said yesterday that prescription costs are up 40% in the past 10 years and shared a concern that insurance companies do not cover their share of the costs. She noted “Many (people) are on fixed incomes and are forced to choose between paying for their prescriptions or paying for their everyday, other essentials, from food to heat to rent,” she said. “By the time they turn 60, most Americans are taking at least one prescription medication, and many say it’s difficult to afford them.” The proposed bill would cap the yearly prescription costs per person to $2,000 and the cost for families at $4,000.
An Illinois man is facing several charges after entering the Charles R. Drew magnet school and assaulting a staff member on Tuesday. The school serves children in grades 3 through 8. Police say the suspect, identified as 30-year-old Shane Cronin, entered the school through the Buffalo Science Museum and approached a student. The school’s assistant principal intervened and was punched and shoved into a wall by Cronin. Police later found him hiding in the museum and arrested him without incident. Cronin’s charged with one count of Burglary in the Second Degree and one count of assault in the third-degree, among other things.
The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) will offer free rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets. To receive the vaccination, all animals must be at least 3 months old. It is important for all animals to be leashed, crated, and kept under control during the clinics. So you can plan ahead, the next drive-thru clinic is scheduled for Thursday, May 15th from 4pm to 6:30pm at the Genesee County Fairgrounds. If you’d like additional information, please call 585-344-2580 (ext. 5555).
The cost of breakfast is skyrocketing; staples like eggs, orange juice and coffee are hurting customers’ wallets. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, egg prices were up over 50% year over year in January. They’re up over 7% month over month. Drinks like orange juice jumped 7.7% over the last year, and coffee is up just over 3%.
The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for the entire region. Although they’re not predicting a high amount of snow, driving could become hazardous, as the snow becomes a little steadier after 4 this afternoon. Slightly higher amounts of snow are expected in Orleans and Niagara Counties. Periods of snow, sleet or freezing rain tonight will result in slippery roads and limited visibilities.
A 22-year-old Batavia man has died in what state police describe as a tragic snowmobile accident. The crash was reported just before 3:00am on Fourth Lake off Route 28 in Herkimer County. Initial investigation indicates Spencer Schmidt was among five friends riding together and died at the scene. The crash could have involved a disabled, unoccupied snowmobile registered to Eric Butler, which had been left on the lake. Evidence also suggested that Schmidt and four friends, Cole Phelps, Carl Stephens, Joshua Boyle and Zachary Dusky, all 26-years-old, collided with one another and/or the stationary snowmobile. Alcohol and drugs do not appear to have been a factor and there was no indication of criminality. The investigation by State Police continues today.
A Texas man has been extradited to Lockport following an investigation suggested that he coerced a minor into sex last August. State Police say 22-year-old Javier Vasquez was arrested for six counts of rape and criminal sex acts, along with promoting a sexual performance by a child and criminal obstruction of breathing. It’s alleged that in August 2024, Vasquez coerced a girl under the age of 17 using drugs, into sexual relations. He was indicted on the multiple felony charges in Niagara County and remanded to Niagara County Jail.
Work is underway to celebrate and remember the past two centuries of the Erie Canal. The Erie County Historical Commission has been working to prepare for the year ahead, all leading up to a grand finale celebration to mark the exact 200th anniversary of the canal’s completion. Organizers said this is all just the beginning as the nation as a whole prepares to honor America’s 250th birthday. For more information on events at the Erie Canal, visit 
Three Western New York communities are getting state funding for downtown revitalization projects. Canandaigua, Phelps and Brockport were all picked as the winners of the Finger Lakes Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward Program. Canandaigua will receive $10 million while Brockport and Phelps are getting $4.5 million bucks each. It’ll be up to each community to decide how the money is spent.
Once again, the Rochester Red Wings are offering a 50 degree guarantee to their fans. General Manager Dan Mason says if the temperature doesn’t reach 50 degrees on Opening Day at Innovative Field, fans in attendance can use that ticket for any other home game during the season. The Red Wings play their first home contest on April 1st against the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs. Seats are still available and can be purchased online.
Tax season is underway, and New Yorkers are being reminded they can file their returns for free. Thanks to the Direct File program, both state and federal returns can be sent in online at no cost. It’s estimated that more than 3 million people will either use their Smartphone or laptop computer to take advantage of this offer. For more information head to 
The nine suspects accused of being involved in welfare fraud schemes in Orleans County are due in court this week. The individuals are expected to face a judge tomorrow following an investigation into the theft of public funds. The suspects allegedly filed false information in order to get thousands of dollars in benefits assistance they weren’t entitled to. They were all issued appearance tickets following their arrest and released.
Western New York motorists are seeing consistent prices when they head to the gas station to fill up their vehicles. According to Triple A this afternoon, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel right now is sitting at $3.14. The state average is slightly higher at $3.18. In Batavia, the average also calculates out to $3.18; the same as it was a week ago, a penny higher than it was a month ago, and six cents more than it was a year ago today.
Another wave of the flu has hit the nation. Health officials say the rapid rise in cases is causing doctor visits for flu related symptoms to reach their highest in 15 years. Visits to providers for respiratory illnesses were close to 8% last week, which is the highest since the swine flu outbreak, in 2009. The CDC estimates there have been 24 million cases of the flu this season causing more than 300,000 hospitalizations and 13,000 deaths. Recent data shows that 45 states remain in the “high” or “very high” category for flu activity. For the week ending February 1, leading the pack regionally, was Monroe County with 1,660 confirmed cases of the flu; followed by Erie County with 741; Niagara County reported 159; Livingston County had 148 and Genesee logged 56 confirmed cases of the flu.
Egg prices are on the rise. With costs soaring, many people are looking into purchasing backyard chickens as an alternative way to get their eggs. A bird flu outbreak has increased egg prices across the country, including here in Western New York. Prices have gone up by more than 50% in cities nationwide. Now some people are taking matters into their own hands, wanting to raise chickens in their backyard. However, it may not be as easy to take care of them as you might think. And depending on where you live, there are also rules and regulations around owning chickens, so it’s important to do your research beforehand.
Organizers of the New York State Blues Festival have released the lineup for this year’s event. The headline act for that festival, which runs June 12th through 14th at the New York State Fairgrounds’ Chevy Court, is the Warren Haynes Band. Other artists that’ll take the stage include Kat Riggins and Her Blues Revival, The Ripcords and Ruthie Foster. Additional details on the free event can be found at 
The Buffalo Bills are doing their part to help fund modified girls flag football programs in the region. Several schools have received money from the NFL franchise including Canisteo-Greenwood, Loretta Johnson Middle School, Our Lady of Mercy and also Rochester Prep. The Buffalo Bills Foundation and Ralph C. Wilson Junior Foundation are committed to spending $260,000 over the next three years on these programs. Games could begin as early as this spring.
The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) will offer free rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats and ferrets. To receive the vaccination, all animals must be at least 3 months old. It is important for all animals to be leashed, crated, and kept under control during the clinics. So you can plan ahead, the next drive-thru clinic is scheduled for Thursday, May 15th from 4pm to 6:30pm at the Genesee County Fairgrounds. If you’d like additional information, please call 585-344-2580 (ext. 5555).