Local News

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

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

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

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

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

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

File photo

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

Governor Hochul, file photo from her visit to Rochester in February 2023

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

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

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

13WHAM file photo of immigrants arriving in Rochester early last month.

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

Rinaldo Pearson

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

File photo of the scene following the officer-involved fatal shooting in Niagara Falls.

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

File photo of Ontario Beach Park

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

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

ELSEWHERE…

‘Tis the season…

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

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

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

President Biden with the First Lady

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

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

September 8 in history…

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

The surrender, in New York City

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

15-year-old Margaret Gorman

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

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

Senator Huey Long, early in 1935

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

Ready for the liftoff of the Starship Enterprise

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

Clayton ‘Bud’ Collyer

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

1973: President Nixon and Vice President Ford in the Oval Office

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

And then in 2006, celebrating the 40th anniversary since the television show’s debut

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Holiday Inn, Rochester; the temporary home of the most recently arrived asylum seekers

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

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

File photo of dealership

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

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

Fabian Carter III

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

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

Unidentified woman in undated file photo donating blood

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

Unidentified tailgaters excited for the Bills game

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

ELSEWHERE…

Some of the items available at the Freddie Mercury auction

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

Tami Manis and her mullet

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

WFOR-TV, Miami photo

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

Unidentified older couple in undated file photo

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

During the second Mitch McConnell “freeze”

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

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

September 7 in history…

Raggedy Andy and Raggedy Ann

Johnny Gruelle

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

Glenn “Pop” Warner with Jim Thorpe

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

Keith Moon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nathan Royse

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

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

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

Ronald and Jane Saylor

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

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

File photo

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

Arrests have been made

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

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

ELSEWHERE…

Danelo Cavalcante

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

Please play responsibly.

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

File photo of unidentified teenager being prepared to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

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

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

The Oregon Health and Science University

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

Tyrese Haliburton

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

This year’s butter sculpture (13WHAM Photo)

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

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

September 6 in history…

Ferdinand Magellan

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

President McKinley

Leon Cozlgosz

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

Kris Kringle in “Miracle on 34th Street”

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

Prince William, Prince Harry and (now) King Charles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CITY of BATAVIA POLICE BLOTTER:

Danny Williams, Sr.

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

Bradley Jordan

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

Bleyke Culver

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

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

Jakarah Lopez-Moore

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

The scene on Zelmer Street following the shooting

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

File photo of an Erie County Air One Helicopter

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

ELSEWHERE…

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

A Delta Boeing 737

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

The President and First Lady

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

Gary Wright in 2014

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

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

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

September 5 in history…

                               Chief Crazy Horse

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

Labor Day Parade, 1909 New York City

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

Babe Ruth wearing a Providence Grays cap crooked in 1914

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

Cassius Clay in 1960

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

Jerry Lewis, pictured while hosting the first of many telethons

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

Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme

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

Her first night (CBS News Photo)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rashawn Gosier

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

Ronald and Jane Saylor

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

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

File photo of Mark Poloncarz

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

Niagara Falls Amtrak Station

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

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

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

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

Josh Allen with 17 Blend Coffee

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

ELSEWHERE…

File photo

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

Donald Trump (file photo)

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

Senator McConnell second ‘freeze’ in as many months

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

Please play responsibly.

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

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

September 1 in history…

Liberty Bell, at Liberty Bell Center, Philadelphia

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

“Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, your 1890 Brooklyn Bridegrooms!”

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

Invasion of Poland, September 1 1939

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

The discovery in 1985

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

Tess Barbato painting: “$5.15”

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

The rescue of Fats Domino

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dequan Richardson and Jonay Robinson

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

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

Gates gas station; scene of the shooting (13WHAM Photo)

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

The Broadway intersection; scene of the fatal crash

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

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

Undated file photo and unknown location of protest for reparations

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

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

ELSEWHERE…

File photo of August Super Moon

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

Undated file photo

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

Surgeons at work at the NYU Langone Transplant Institute

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

William Beals (NBC News photo)

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

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

August 31 in history…

Man views kinetograph through lens on kinetoscope

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

The Latrobe football team, in 1895

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

Rocky Marciano with his mother in 1950

The plane that crashed killing Marciano

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

Patty Hearst

Bill and Emily Harris

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

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

Trevor Rees-Jones

Aftermath of crash that killed Princess Diana and Dodi Al-Fayed, and the car’s driver, Henri Paul

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jason Clark

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

Wadsworth Lab in Albany

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

File photo

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

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

Hispanic Heritage Cultural Institute in Buffalo

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

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

Von Miller

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

ELSEWHERE…

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

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

Drew Carey and Bob Barker (CBS Photo)

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

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

5 tips

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

An alligator is on the loose in Middlesex, New Jersey

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

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

August 30 in history…

Casey Stengel

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

Thurgood Marshall in 1967

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

Comet Lovejoy hits the sun and manages to survive

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

Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed

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

David appears quite happy about his move from NBC to CBS. Read more about it below:

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

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

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

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

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

David being David

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chief Graham

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

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

Chief Graff

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

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

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

Louisiana Street Bridge cracks show the need for major repairs

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

City of Buffalo skyline

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

File photo of Terry Pegula

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

ELSEWHERE…

Idalia’s predicted path

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

Silt found in time capsule

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

Bike thief stops to pet dog and to the right, the “very good boy” smiles for the camera.

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

March 2023 file photo of Elton John in London

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

Wegmans jerk style chicken recall

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

Money going up in smoke

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

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

August 29 in history…

Opening day of the Air Force Academy

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

Vernon Presley with his son, Elvis

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

Tiger Woods donning his red shirt and holding the Disney Classic trophy, following his win in October 1996

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

Reed Hasting and Marc Randolph

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

Barry Cowsill

Barry Cowsill

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

Unidentified fast food workers on strike in 2013

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jamie Dutton

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

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

File photo of unidentified family exploring Lockport Cave

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

Overly protective dog prevents firefighter from accessing the hydrant

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

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

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

ELSEWHERE…

New York State Fair

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

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

Please play responsibly.

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

Lucky dog!

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

Bob Barker at the close of one the many Price Is Right shows he hosted.

Bob Barker and Adam Sandler

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

A hot air balloon landed in the Interstate 91 median in White River Junction, Vt., on Wednesday night, August 23, 2023. Hartford (Vermont) firefighter Mitch White photographed its landing.

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

Unidentified child in file photo using an inhaler to treat Asthma

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

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

August 28 in history…

An early UPS delivery truck

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

A Truetone Radio

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

Emmitt Till

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

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

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

Some fans didn’t like seeing Bob Dylan perform using an electric guitar.

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

Mark Spitz with his 7 gold medals (Sports Illustrated Photo)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

File photo

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

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

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz

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

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

Ellicott Station – Savarino – 2021 file photo

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

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

ELSEWHERE…

Braille Legos set for people who are blind or partially sighted is now available

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

Hersha Parady (right) has died at age 78. NBC promotional photo from ‘Little House on the Prairie’

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

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

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

The offending, suspicious toilet

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

Please play responsibly.

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

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

August 25 in history…

Captain Matthew Webb

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

Friedrich Nietzsche

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

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

Gary Coleman and Molly Shannon

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

Aaliyah and the aftermath of plane crash that killed her and 7 others

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jason Lane

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

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

Jason Arno with his daughter

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

Asylum seekers arrive in Rochester earlier this month (13WHAM photo)

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

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

Rick Jeanneret

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

ELSEWHERE…

Connor Halsa holds personalized cooler given to him by Iowa farmer, Jim Denney as a reward for returning money caught while fishing

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

Wegmans soda (13WHAM photo)

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

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

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

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

August 24 in history…

British burned the White House today in history.

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

George Crum with the snack he introduced in 1853

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

Thomas Edison in 1928 with an updated version of a motion picture camera. He died in 1931.

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

Norma Jean in 1946, the same year she changed her name to Marilyn Monroe.

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

The 1963 Little League world champion team

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

The original cast of The Facts of Life

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

Mark David Chapman – 1980 and 2010 mugshots

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

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

Jerry Rice

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unidentified man in undated file photo

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

Rawleigh and Skavon Andrews

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

Micah Hyde

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

ELSEWHERE…

Left to right: Kelsey Grammer as Dr. Frasier Crane; David Hyde Pierce as Dr. Niles Crane, John Mahoney as Martin Crane (NBC Photo)

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

NBC News photo of the scene of a bus crash in Ohio. One child died and there were multiple people injured.

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

A hot dog beer straw: Genius or gross?

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

Striking Writer’s Guild members (May, 2023)

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

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

Please play responsibly.

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

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

August 23 in history…

Vilma Banky and Rudolph Valentino; 1926 film, “Son of the Sheik”

Rudolph Valentino

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

Cynthia and John at Liverpool’s Mount Pleasant Register

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

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

John Lennon with sketch of UFO sighting; drawn is John and his girlfriend at the time, May Pang. May later said the drawing was a fake.

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

Pete Rose is at a loss for words during a press conference at Riverfront Stadium after he agreed to being banned from baseball for life.

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

The famous photo: Alfred Eisenstaedt picture of a sailor kissing a nurse on the day the Japanese surrendered, ending World War II.

Glenn McDuffie claims to have been the sailor who kissed the woman in the photo. He said he did not know who she was. McDuffie died in 2014 at age 86.

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

Richard Hatch (left) in a scene from ‘Survivor’. (CBS Photo)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BATAVIA CITY POLICE BLOTTER:

Sean Conway

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

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Asylum seekers in Buffalo, August 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Garrett McGhin

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

Stephen A. Smith and Stefon Diggs

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

ELSEWHERE…

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

Mancuso Theater marquee (October 1995)

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

Charles Martinet

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

Boyfriend Dominic Russo – Mackenzie reacting to her sentence – Friend Davian Flanagan

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

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

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

August 22 in history…

Ann Franklin

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

The Battle of Long Island, 1776

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

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

1910 Cadillac Model 30

…In 1902, the Cadillac automobile company was founded.

Theodore Roosevelt in Hartford, Connecticut

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

Althea Gibson

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

The Beatles, during the Hey Jude photo shoot

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

1984 Volkswagen Rabbit GTI

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

But then…(the scene that led to part of the closing argument, ‘If the glove doesn’t fit, you must acquit’)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shamika Dean

Dean caught on security camera

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

D’Youville University file photo

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

The Urgent Care entrance (file photo)

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

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

Asylum seekers in Buffalo (August 2023)

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

May 2023 frost

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

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

Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Tommy Doyle (72) lays on the field after an injury in the second half of an NFL preseason football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, in Pittsburgh, Saturday, Aug. 19, 2023. (AP Photo/Gene Puskar)

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

Bills basement, decorated from floor to ceiling

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

ELSEWHERE…

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

Billy Busch

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

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

Still missing the Twitter blue bird!

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

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

August 21 in history…

Nat Turner

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

The Lourve Museum

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

Undated file photo – Honolulu, Hawai’i

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

“Dirty Dancing” starts Jennifer Grey and Patrick Swayze

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

Mars Observer

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

Eva Echevarria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mark Poloncarz (file photo)

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

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

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

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

File photo of Governor Hochul during her May visit to Buffalo.

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

Rick Jeanneret

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

August 2022 file photo of racing at Watkins Glen

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

Josh Allen, January 2023

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

ELSEWHERE…

Hurricane Hilary, NOAA photo from the morning of August 18, 2023

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

File photo of F-16 fighter jets

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

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

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

Herman Andaya

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

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

August 18 in history…

Welcome to the New World, Virginia

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

President Woodrow Wilson, pictured at his desk in 1919

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

Marilyn Monroe

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

Elvis, alongside a photo taken at his funeral

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

Larry Bird

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

Dennis Rader

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

Jared Fogle, during less happy times

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

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

Buffalo Bills helmet; 1965-1973

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

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

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

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

Sign Removed

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sight Lines Good

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About Batavia Downs/WROTB

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

About Mothers of Veteran Suicide

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

PRESS RELEASE:

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

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

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

Akeem Gibson

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

Adam Bello (13WHAM file photo)

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

Attorney General Letitia James (File photo)

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

Unidentified mourners at the memorial for Tops shooting victims

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

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

ELSEWHERE…

The New York State Fair prepares to open in 2021 (13WHAM file photo)

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

Surgeons at work at NYU Langone Health

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

Necrotizing fasciitis bacteria

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

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

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

August 16 in history…

Joseph Pulitzer

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

Charles Kettering in his workshop

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

Along the Mississippi coast after Hurricane Camille

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

Jimi Hendriz finally takes the stage, in front of much smaller Woodstock crowd

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

Lucy with Vivian Vance

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

Woody Allen with wife Soon-Yi

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

The President with Monica Lewinsky

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Asylum seekers arrive in Rochester on August 7, 2023 (13WHAM Photo)

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

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

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

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

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

The Penfield Target was evacuated yesterday.

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

Luke Combs on stage in California in 2022

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

Josh Allen with boxes of Josh’s Jaqs – the 4th edition

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

ELSEWHERE…

Thankfully, yes he did.

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

The coins found in Wales

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

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

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

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

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

August 16 in history…

From left to right: Jim Skookum; Dawson Charlie; George Carmack

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

The first “Loop the Loop” roller coaster, at Coney Island.

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

Babe Ruth gives 17 year old fan the ball he hit for his 700th homerun

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

The first cover

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

Ringo Starr and Pete Best, pictures from 1962

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

Elvis during an appearance in Buffalo on April 1, 1957 at the Buffalo Memorial Coliseum

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

Paul Simon and Carrie Fisher during happier times in 1983

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

Sean Penn and Madonna during happier times in 1985

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

The detailed story of Wyatt Kauffman:

Wyatt, in the hospital after his fall

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

During the rescue effort

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

Wyatt resting in the hospital during his recovery.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ian Milam

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

Raul Cruz

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

Blizzard cleanup; December 29, 2022

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

Adam Bello (file photo)

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

Nick Langworthy (file photo)

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

File photo

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

Cynthia Matla

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

Unidentified visitors to Niagara Falls (file photo)

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

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

Unidentified zombies enjoying a ride during a previous Fright Fest

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

ELSEWHERE…

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

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

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

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

Today is Tuesday, August 15th, the 227th day of the year.

August 15 in history…

Crisco advertisement in 1911

…In 1911, Proctor and Gamble Company introduced Crisco shortening.

The first ship to pass through the newly-opened Panama Canal

…In 1914, the Panama Canal opened for traffic.

The ‘Munchkins’ on opening day

…In 1939, MGM’s “The Wizard of Oz” opened at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood.

Anchorman Douglas Edwards at the CBS News desk

…In 1948, CBS Television presented the first nightly news broadcast. Douglas Edwards was the anchorman.

Woodstock opening day, in Bethel

…In 1969, The Woodstock Music and Arts Fair opened in upstate New York.

…In 1971, former President Richard Nixon announced a 90-day freeze on wages, prices, and rents to help fight inflation.

…In 1995, the popular song “Macarena” by Los Del Rio was released in the U.S.

First generation iMac; August 1998

…In 1998, Apple launched the first iMac computer.

A parade of sports and entertainment celebrities made the annual pilgrimage to Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia to raise money for charity. Yesterday was the 36^th Annual Jim Kelly Celebrity Classic that brought football and entertainment legends to the links including a host of iconic Buffalo Bills players. The Buffalo News says the event brought in nearly $7 million in donations for the Kelly for Kids charity and other western New York charities.

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Nearly 800 pounds of butter are arriving at the New York State Fair in Syracuse.  According to the American Dairy Association, the butter will be used to create the 55th annual butter sculpture at the fair, which helps to spotlight farmers.  The design phase of the butter sculpture starts months in advance.  The unveiling of the sculpture takes place next Tuesday.

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Nurses and officials with Rochester Regional Health will meet again on Thursday to try and hammer out a new labor agreement. Tentative deals have already been reached on issues such as dress code and employee classification. Nurses recently went on a two-day strike, but temporary workers were brought in so patient care wasn’t affected.

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The American Red Cross has rolled out its latest initiative as it tries to boost blood donations. Anyone who decides to donate through the rest of this month will get a $10 e-gift card to a movie merchant of their choice. Summer is usually the time of year where donations drop, which makes it harder for people who need blood to receive it. To schedule an appointment, go to redcrossblood.org.

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An audit from the state comptroller’s office says the state needs to make improvements in its state parks for people with disabilities.

The audit says the parks meet the minimum standards under the Americans with Disabilities Act, but more can be done. Out of the 40 parks that were reviewed, about two-thirds can be improved. Some parks have inaccessible entrances and bathrooms, and some have limited parking for those with disabilities. The audit did applaud some ways the parks have improved accessibility, including the Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park.

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The New York State Department of Labor is launching a new service to help businesses find skilled job candidates. The enhanced Virtual Career Center allows businesses to find qualified candidates with specific skills, and also allows employers to post jobs and communicate directly with job candidates.

The free platform was initially launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to connect unemployed New Yorkers with job opportunities. The state says more than 80,000 job seekers have signed up to use this online resource.

FROM THE GENESEE COUNTY SHERIFF: 35-year-old Brian Tracy of Stafford has been arrested. He’s charged with criminal contempt, criminal mischief, harassment with physical contact and endangering the welfare of a child. It’s alleged that Tracy got out of his car during a custody exchange and struck the hand of an individual, causing her phone to break in front of their two daughters. Tracy was transported to Genesee County Jail and held pending his CAP Court arraignment. ALSO: 30-year-old Skylair Blumer, and 35-year-old Alex Stockschlaeder, both of Attica, were arrested and charged with conspiracy and grand larceny. It’s alleged that both stole $4500 from the victims after agreeing to do work for them. Stockschlaeder and Blumer were held at the Genesee County Jail pending a CAP Court arraignment. ALSO: 53-year-old Steven Barraco of Batavia has been charged with harassment. He was arrested following investigation into an incident during which it’s alleged Barraco intentionally shoved the throat of an individual. He was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held pending a CAP Court arraignment.  ALSO: 49-year-old Jason Babbitt of Pavilion was arrested and charged with aggravated harassment. It’s alleged that late in July, Babbitt contacted the Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center by phone numerous times late, even after being instructed to stop. Babbitt was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled for Batavia City Court on August 29th.

CITY OF BATAVIA POLICE BLOTTER:

Joel Prouty

1. On 8/4/2023, Joel D Prouty (age 37) of Batavia, was arrested for Strangulation 2nd and Assault 3rd. It’s alleged that Prouty struck the victim in the face and strangled her, during a disturbance. When Police arrived on scene, Prouty jumped out of a second story window and fled on foot. Police were unable to locate him that day. On 8/4, Patrols were called back to the same address, for another disturbance between Prouty and the same victim. When Officers attempted to take him into custody, Prouty allegedly fought with them. He was additionally charged with Resisting Arrest and Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and held without bail.

Richard Demmer

2. On 8/3/2023, Richard A Demmer (age 30) of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant, from Batavia City Court. Demmer was initially arrested on 5/29/2023, after he allegedly attempted to rob the 7-Eleven, on East Main St. A warrant was issued on 7/12/2023, after Demmer allegedly failed to appear for a court appearance. He was arrested on that warrant on 7/13/2023. Another warrant was issued on 7/27/2023, after he again allegedly failed to appear in court. Demmer was located by Batavia Police on 8/3 and arrested. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $10,000 cash bail, $20,000 bond, and $40,000 partially secured bond.

3. On 7/29/2023, Crystal A Mounts (age 46) of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant, from Batavia City Court. Mounts was initially arrested on 4/9/2022, after allegedly stealing property from a local church. A warrant was issued on 4/29/2022, after she allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arrested on that warrant on 5/14/2022. Another warrant was issued on 9/19/2022, after she again failed to appear in court. She was arrested on that warrant on 7/29/2023. She was arraigned in CAP Court and is due to appear in Batavia City Court at a later date.

4. On 7/30/2023, Lance D Beals (age 53) of Batavia, was arrested for Criminal Mischief 4th and Criminal Tampering 3rd. Beals was arrested after an investigation into an incident on East Main St, where he allegedly caused damaged to an apartment building. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on 8/14/2023.

5. On 8/9/2023, Kavyia A Spencer (age 24) of Batavia, was arrested for Petit Larceny. Spencer was arrested after an investigation into an employee theft from Kwik Fill on Jackson St. It’s alleged that she stole merchandise from the store, on two separate occasions. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on 8/22/2023.

6. On 8/9/2023, Patricia M Anderson (age 38) of Batavia, was arrested on an arrest warrant from Batavia City Court. Anderson was initially arrested on 4/9/2023, after allegedly stealing merchandise from 7-Eleven on East Main St. A warrant was issued after Anderson allegedly failed to appear in court. Anderson was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on her own recognizance. She is due back in court at a later date.

7. On 8/8/2023, Edmund J Sobresky (age 54) of Batavia, was arrested for DWAI Drugs. Sobresky’s arrest is the result of a traffic stop on 4/11/2023, where he was found to have been operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on 8/16/2023.

8. On 8/6/2023, Patricia A McCarthy (age 29) of Batavia, was arrested for Harassment 2nd and Public Lewdness. McCarthy was arrested after Police responded to Dellinger Ave, for the report of two people fighting. It’s alleged that McCarthy engaged in a fight with another person. During the fight, McCarthy became disrobed. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on 8/15/2023.

As reported by John Vazquez this morning: You didn’t win the Mega Millions jackpot, but New York State can claim a win. Mega Millions did not have a winner for over 30 drawings, growing the jackpot to its largest ever, $1.602 billion, won on Aug. 8. The state’s Gaming Commission says New Yorkers spent around $168 million on tickets during that run, generating nearly $60 million for K-12 public schools across the state. Retailers combined earned just over $10 million in commissions from selling tickets.

File photo of unidentified nurses

Another negotiating session has been set for this week between nurses and officials with Rochester Regional Health. Both sides will have discussions on Thursday as they look to hammer out a new labor agreement. Tentative deals have already been reached on issues such as dress code and employee classification. Nurses recently went on a two-day strike, but temporary workers were brought in so patient care wasn’t affected.

Another week, another increase in gas prices; according to Triple A today, the average national cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.85. The statewide average price is $3.92. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.86; that’s up 3 cents from a week ago; 26 cents from a month ago; but 54 cents cheaper than it was a year ago today.

The start of classes is a few weeks away, and the state Division of Consumer Protection is offering ways to help parents avoid back to school shopping scams. It’s recommended people protect their identities when shopping online by making sure purchases are made using a secure Internet connection. Also, beware of fake websites and ads, especially ones that appear to be offering large discounts on items. And, use a credit card if possible to buy things since they offer the most protection against fraud.

Unidentified woman in file photo donating blood

The American Red Cross has rolled out its latest initiative as it tries to boost blood donations. Anyone who decides to donate through the rest of this month will get a $10 e-gift card to a movie merchant of their choice. Summer is usually the time of year where donations drop, which makes it harder for people who need blood to receive it. The next blood drive in Batavia is Friday, September 1 at the Social Services Building, 5130 E ast Main Street Road from 9:00am until 3:00pm. To schedule an appointment, go to redcrossblood.org.

Erie County is putting a halt on the arrival of additional migrants following two arrests. Last week, 22-year-old asylum seeker Kindu Jeancy was charged for allegedly trying to sexually abuse a woman at the Best Western in Cheektowaga. An asylum seeker from Venezuela was also recently arrested for allegedly raping a woman at another hotel in the area. County Executive Mark Poloncarz says the National Guard will now be sent to hotels that host migrants.

Damar Hamlin (3) making an early impact during preseason game against the Colts.

The Buffalo Bills say there were no major traffic or parking issues reported before or after the team’s preseason game over the weekend. There are concerns about limited parking and some travel delays due to the construction of a new stadium near Highmark Stadium, which is where the team plays its home games. The Bills won’t be playing again in Orchard Park until the second week of the regular season against the Las Vegas Raiders. It is recommended people try and arrive early to that game if possible. (13WHAM photo)

ELSEWHERE…

Various items being taken from Heuermann’s home during police search.

The family of Gilgo Beach murder suspect Rex Heuermann is exploring legal action for the way investigators allegedly left their New York home. The attorney representing Heuermann’s two children says the home is in shambles after the police search, adding that’s why the family spends so much time outside. Heuermann is facing three murder charges in connection to the death of young sex workers.

This is the gun going up for bid.

A revolver from Elvis Presley’s firearms collection is going up for auction. The Rock Island Auction Company will auction the late King of Rock n’ Roll’s Smith & Wesson Model 53 revolver on August 26th. The special order Russell Smith-signed “master engraved” revolver, originally manufactured in 1974, is inlaid with gold and silver. The auction house expects the pistol to fetch $60,000 to $90,000.

They’re still ironing things out…

The Writers Guild of America and Hollywood studios met at the bargaining table Friday. The Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers presented a counterproposal to the W-G-A, but details of the counter were not disclosed. Both sides have recessed their talks for now. In a message to its members, the W-G-A said they would evaluate the offer and return with a response next week.

Today is Monday, August 14th, the 226th day of the year.

August 14 in history…

Roosevelt signing the Social Security Act into law.

…In 1935, the Social Security Act was signed by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

Truman during the famous broadcast announcing the end of WWII

…In 1945, former President Harry S. Truman announced that Japan had surrendered to the Allies. The surrender signaled the end to fighting in World War Two.

David J. Mullany, left, and his father, David A. Mullany, pose at the Wiffle Ball factory in Shelton in 2003 during the 50th anniversary of the family business. (Associated Press file photo)

…In 1953, David Mullany, Sr. invented the wiffle ball for his 13-year-old son.

A frame from the famous opening scene of The Dick Van Dyke Show

…In 1962, The Dick Van Dyke Show director John Rich filmed a new opening for the show’s second season – you guessed it, the scene in which ‘Rob’ stumbles over the ottoman and falls flat on his back. Actually, Dick and company also filmed an alternate version of the scene; one in which ‘Rob’ doesn’t fall, but instead sidesteps the ottoman. I guess this makes today’s anniversary a double-header.

McCartney and Jackson are all smiles here, but that didn’t last.

…In 1985, Michael Jackson won a bid over Yoko Ono and Paul McCartney to secure the ATV Music Publishing catalog, and was described by industry experts as one of the largest music acquisitions ever by an individual. At $47.5 million Jackson gained the rights to 40,000 song copyrights, including compositions by: Little Richard, the Pointer Sisters, Pat Benatar, the Pretenders, and nearly all the songs written by the Beatles. McCartney had been negotiating with Yoko Ono, who had decided to withdraw her side of the deal because of “astrological” reasons. Scroll to the bottom of this page for the detailed story of how this transaction effected what had previously been a friendly relationship between McCartney and Jackson.

Timothy McVeigh on the day of his conviction.

…In 1997, Timothy McVeigh was sentenced to death for the 1995 bombing of Oklahoma City’s Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The blast killed 168 people.

Backstreet Boys in 1999

…In 1999, tickets for the Backstreet Boys North American tour sold out in just one day, generating an estimated $30 million.

MORE ABOUT HOW THE SALE OF THE BEATLE’S MUSIC CATALOG IMPACTED THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PAUL AND MICHAEL:

Paul reflecting in 2020 on his feud with Michael.

Music brought Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson together, and it also tore them apart. They recorded several duets in the ’80s, among them the chart-topping “Say Say Say,” but then saw a blossoming friendship fractured when Jackson – in what was arguably one of the shrewdest business moves ever made – outbid McCartney for the publishing rights to Beatles catalog in 1985.
They originally met in the ’70s after McCartney wrote a song called “Girlfriend” specifically for Jackson. The track was initially released as part of Wings’ 1978 album London Town, and then on Jackson’s 1979 project Off The Wall. Paul McCartney subsequently appeared on “The Girl is Mine” from Jackson’s Thriller in 1982, and Michael Jackson in turn was part of two tracks from McCartney’s Pipes of Peace in 1983, “The Man” and “Say Say Say.”

At some point during this period, McCartney was said to have discussed a newfound interest in music publishing. (McCartney’s most memorable purchase to that point was the back catalog of Buddy Holly.) Jackson was apparently fascinated by this money-making opportunity, and asked attorney John Branca to inquire about other investments.
“Paul and I had both learned the hard way about business,” Jackson wrote in his 1988 autobiography Moonwalk, “and the importance of publishing and royalties and the dignity of songwriting.”
Indeed, though Paul McCartney had a hand in composing some of the most revered music of all time, ownership of much of the Beatles catalog resided with Northern Songs – a company formed by McCartney and John Lennon in conjunction with late Beatles manager Brian Epstein and publisher Dick James. Following Epstein’s death in 1967, Lennon and McCartney reportedly tried to re-negotiate their publishing agreement with James, but were unsuccessful. James subsequently sold the Beatles catalog to ATV, which then ended up in the hands of Robert Holmes a Court – a billionaire Australian corporate raider who appeared to be willing to unload it, for a price.

Jackson told John Branca to obtain the catalog, no matter the cost. Branca was said to have checked in with McCartney and Lennon’s widow Yoko Ono, who had been rumored to be considering a joint offer for what totalled some 250 original compositions. They reportedly told Branca that they would not be bidding, individually or collectively. In late 1984, Jackson submitted an offer for ATV of $46 million.

Holmes a Court’s team initially believed Jackson was bidding as a front for Paul McCartney, given their public ties. “It seems Paul’s people once told one of the ATV officers that their client was interested in buying the copyrights, but that he didn’t want to go through lengthy negotiations,” a source told the Los Angeles Times. “They said, in effect, ‘You go out and get your best offer and we’ll pay 10 percent more.’ So, when Michael shows up, they know he is a friend of Paul’s and they suspect his bid is just a way for Paul to avoid paying the extra 10 percent. It took a long time to convince them that Michael was acting on his own.” Everything, in fact, took a long time. Negotiations for the catalog moved at a snail’s pace, as the parties debated on the issues of price, warranties and the structure of the deal. Sensing they were close to an agreement in April 1985, Branca arranged a face-to-face meeting with Holmes a Court – only to endure another setback. Holmes a Court had apparently found numerous provisions of the contract unacceptable. Branca suggested, at that point, that Michael Jackson consider withdrawing his offer – and the pop star reluctantly agreed. It was only when John Branca returned to the table, ready to scuttle the deal, which Holmes a Court preliminarily agreed to terms.

A follow up meeting, however, found the two teams returning to issues that had previously seemed resolved – and Jackson again threatened to walk. In May 1985, Holmes a Court reportedly sent Branca a letter, acknowledging their negotiations had gotten off course. As a good-faith gesture, he said he would view Jackson as the exclusive bidder for 30 days, but would entertain other bidders after that. Branca ignored the letter for three weeks, then responded by reiterating that Michael Jackson had already made his final offer.
Once again, the deal seemed dead. Holmes a Court reportedly entertained a tentative $50-million deal with another party, before reaching out to Jackson yet again. Following concessions made by both sides, Jackson agreed to increase his $46-million offer by $1.5 million, and on Aug. 14, 1985, the sale was finalized.
Paul McCartney and Michael Jackson would never work together again. “I think it’s dodgy to do something like that,” McCartney later admitted. “To be someone’s friend, and then buy the rug they’re standing on.”

Ten years later, Michael Jackson agreed to merge ATV with Sony’s music-publishing business, earning a whopping $95 million. As personal debts mounted into the 2000s, however, Jackson ended up borrowing as much as $200 million against the catalog, in an agreement that would pay back Sony via future earnings.

Michael Jackson’s 2009 death led to new headlines involving the Beatles catalog, sparked by a rumor that Jackson intended to will the song rights back to McCartney. Paul McCartney said there was never any such arrangement. “Some time ago, the media came up with the idea that Michael Jackson was going to leave his share in the Beatles’ songs to me in his will,” McCartney said. “[It] was completely made up. The report is that I am devastated to find that he didn’t leave the songs to me. This is completely untrue. I had not thought for one minute that the original report [about the will] was true, and therefore the report that I’m devastated is also totally false.”

McCartney admitted that he remained hurt over the acquisition, but spoke highly of Jackson nevertheless – calling him a “massively talented boy-man with a gentle soul. I feel privileged to have hung out and worked with Michael.” Jackson’s passing, however, didn’t end the saga. Five years later, a massive hack of Sony’s private emails was made public, revealing that company executives had considered selling the Beatles songs back to McCartney. “Paul,” a source confirmed in late 2014, “will want to buy the catalog.”

Erie County is putting a pause on accepting more asylum seekers after an arrest of an asylum seeker in Cheektowaga Friday. The asylum seeker, Kindu Jeancy, 22, faces sexual abuse and unlawful imprisonment charges after he allegedly tried to touch a woman in a sexual manner. The woman is from an agency working with asylum seekers.

Last week, another asylum seeker was arrested and is facing rape charges after an incident at a hotel on Genesee Street in Cheektowaga.

The national guard will be stationed at all hotels housing asylum seekers

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Pet owners – be aware that if your furry friend needs emergency care, the emergency vet office in Rochester is reducing its hours and eliminating overnight care. Veterinary Specialists and Emergency Services in Brighton will now open at 8 a.m. and will close at 10 p.m. Your best bet will be one of three 24-hour emergency pet care centers in the Buffalo area.

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It was curtain up for the Batavia Players new home. The troupe christened their new Main St. 56 Theatre in the Batavia City Centre on Friday, with the opening of Cry Baby, The Musical. According to our news partner, the Batavian, while there is still work to be done, the transformation of the former medical office to a theatre cost more than $1 million. The Players are still raising the $265,000 needed to finish the work. Donations can be made at their website, bataviaplayers.org.

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The East Pembroke Fire District could be the first fire department in Genesee County to offer retirement benefits for its volunteers. According to The Batavian, voters in the district will make that decision on August 29. If approved, firefighters would need to accumulate enough points through service to qualify, a goal that Fire District President James Gayton would be easy to accomplish. He said offering the retirement benefit would be cheaper for taxpayers than hiring paid firefighters and could be used as a recruiting tool.

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You didn’t win the Mega Millions jackpot, but New York State can claim a win. Mega Millions did not have a winner for over 30 drawings, growing the jackpot to its largest ever, $1.602 billion, won on Aug. 8. The state’s Gaming Commission says New Yorkers spent around $168 million on tickets during that run, generating nearly $60 million for K-12 public schools across the state. Retailers combined earned just over $10 million in commissions from selling tickets.

A Canadian Truck driver has been arrested after almost 400 kilograms of cocaine was found in his truck near the border.  37 year old Ahmed El Kady of Hamilton, Ontario was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, and conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life, and a fine of $10,000,000.  Investigators say they were onto Kady from the border crossing in Michigan and his picking up the trailer in Detroit.  They surveilled him and the truck as it made many stops in Detroit, through Ohio, and then in Buffalo and Niagara Falls.  Investigators were able to execute a warrant on the truck in Niagara Falls and found 386 kilos of cocaine and arrested Kady. 

If you haven’t driven over I90 on Oak street in Batavia for a while you may be surprised to see a new traffic light on the north side.  This is the new light for Federal Drive, although the new traffic sign says Federal rd. which may be a typo.  As of now the light is flashing yellow but the Department of Transportation says it will soon be switching to a 3 color stoplight.  So be prepared to stop when you cross over the bridge.

The Genesee County Sheriffs Office is proud to announce the graduation of the most recent batch from the Teen Academy.  6 teenagers participated in and graduated from the program held at GCC from July 17th through 21st.  They joined deputies in fulfilling different roles in the law enforcement system.  The Fourth annual academy was made possible with the support of Genesee County STOP DWI, the Genesee County Legislature, and Genesee Community College.

Getting pot rolled out at dispensaries is on hold again.  New cannabis retail licenses will not be awarded in New York State after a judge didn’t rule on a previous injunction on Friday.  A group of four disabled veterans are suing the Cannabis Control Board and Office of Cannabis Management over how the licenses are being handled.  They say they should have been served first under the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act but the NYS system prioritizes people who have had a previous marijuana conviction and also gives preference to certain racial groups.  The judge should issue a ruling in about 2 weeks.

Zoo keepers are concerned about a medical issue with one of the Giraffes at the Seneca Park Zoo and a procedure that may be just as dangerous.  Kipenzi, a 6-year-old female giraffe at the Seneca Park Zoo, is set to undergo a high-risk procedure next week to biopsy and radiograph a growth on her jaw.  The zoo said the growth, which may be a tumor, has been growing in size and is impacting her ability to eat.  Giraffe experts from across the country have teamed up to help treat Kipenzi. Several veterinarians will be helping perform the procedure, which requires high-risk anesthesia, Tuesday morning.

53-year-old Joseph Johnson of Mumford has been arrested for robbery and harassment following an incident on Park Road in Batavia. It’s alleged he forcibly took property from an elderly victim at the Batavia Downs Casino. Johnson was charged and held pending an arraignment in CAP Court.

The scene in Pembroke following the fatal crash (released photo)

A Batavia woman has died in a crash and the investigation continues. Around 4:00 yesterday afternoon, two cars collided on Route 5 in Pembroke. Police determined that the 2007 Ford Freestyle driven by 34-year-old Nikki Stonebraker had crossed the centerline at a high rate of speed and struck a 2013 Dodge Caravan. The driver and passenger of the Dodge were transported to Erie County Medical Center with severe injuries. Nikki Stonebraker was pronounced dead at the scene.

Ayden Cuvelier

Monroe County Deputies are looking for help finding a missing teen. Ayden Cuvelier was last seen this past Tuesday night, around 10 p.m., in Hilton. The 15-year-old is described as five-foot-six, roughly 120-pounds, with brown hair, and was last seen wearing a gray hoodie with light-colored skinny jeans. Anyone with any information is asked to call the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

COVID-19 is on the rise in New York State. Nearly 800 people tested positive last month, the highest number since July. The newest COVID-19 variant is a member of the Omicron family. While not too different from other variants, experts say it is more contagious. With both the fall and school season approaching, experts say to expect a rise in respiratory illnesses.

2023 Buffalo Bills Little People

Fisher-Price has unveiled the 2023 edition of its Buffalo Bills “Little People” figurine set. The toy maker is once again teaming up with Wegmans stores across Upstate New York to sell the toys. Starting today, fans can purchase the Buffalo Bills Little People Collector set at Wegmans stores throughout our region. This year’s set includes quarterback Josh Allen, tight end Dawson Knox, linebacker Von Miller and a Bills “Super Fan.” Fisher-Price will donate $10 of each set, up to $1 million, when purchased at Wegmans stores, to The Children’s Hospital of Buffalo Foundation providing philanthropic support to John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital.

One example of recalled candles

Target is recalling over 2 million scented candles that might shatter while burning. The recall issued Thursday affects 5.5 ounce one-wick candles and 20 ounce 3-wick candles sold in glass jars. Target says it has received 19 reports of the jars shattering while the wick is burning. The Consumer Product Safety Commission says anyone who bought one of the candles should stop using it and return it to Target for a full refund.

Sean McDermott: “We continue to take it one day at a time.”

Two Buffalo Bills star players are out for the preseason opener tomorrow. Coach Sean McDermott said yesterday that quarterback Josh Allen and wide receiver Stefon Diggs have been ruled out. Safety Damar Hamlin’s status also remains uncertain. The Bills’ second preseason game will be August 19th against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

ELSEWHERE…

He may be retired, but that didn’t stop a local firefighter from helping a neighbor in trouble early yesterday morning. East Rochester Fire Chief James Diego says the retiree was walking down Fairport Road around 8:30 a.m., noticed smoke coming from the garage and notified the homeowner. Together, the two closed the garage door and were able to stop the fire from spreading to the home. The department says they are still looking into the cause of the fire.

The skull re-discovered in China

Researchers say a skull dating back 300,000 years might point to a new branch on the human family tree. The skull found in eastern China in 2015 is unlike another other pre-modern human fossil ever found. The researchers from China, Spain, and the United Kingdom say the jaw in the skull doesn’t fit any existing groups. They say it has features of both pre-modern and modern humans. More details are available by scrolling to the bottom of today’s News Brief page.

Billy Waters

A new book says golfer Phil Mickelson bet more than a billion dollars on sports over three decades, and lost a $100 million. CNBC says a new book from gambler Billy Waters claims he had a sports betting partnership with Mickelson, and at one point the golfer asked to bet $400,000 on the U.S. to win the 2012 Ryder Cup that he was playing in, though he was talked out of it. Waters was convicted of insider trading in 2017, but former President Trump commuted his prison sentence. Additional details are available at the bottom of today’s News Brief page.

Map of Ukraine in the colors of their flag

President Biden is calling on Congress for $24 billion for Ukraine. But some Congressional Republicans have been hesitant about putting any more money toward Ukraine’s efforts as the war continues with no signs of stopping soon. A CNN poll released last week found 55% of Americans believed Congress should not authorize additional funding.

Johnny Hardwick and Dale Gribble

The actor who voiced one of Hank Hill’s buddies on the animated series “King of the Hill” has died. Johnny Hardwick provided the voice of Dale Gribble, who was known for his obsession with conspiracy theories. The show was set in the fictional town of Arlen, Texas, and Hardwick was a native Texan. Hardwick died Tuesday at his home in Austin. He was 64.

Today is Friday, August 11th, the 223rd day of the year.

August 11 in history…

The SS Arapahoe, in trouble in 1909

…In 1909, the “Arapahoe” became one of the first ships to use the S-O-S distress signal. S-O-S remains the standard international distress signal for ships and airplanes.

First prisoners arrive at Alcatraz with plenty of folks from the media

…In 1934, the first federal prisoners arrived at Alcatraz.

Jackie Robinson successfully steals home (August 1948)

… In 1951, WCBS Television in New York City broadcast the first baseball doubleheader in color. Here are the details: The Boston Braves and Brooklyn Dodgers became the first two teams to play a baseball game that was broadcast in color. The second game of the Braves-Dodgers doubleheader at Ebbetts Field was broadcast in color on WCBS in New York City with the Braves winning, 8-4. The Braves lost the first game of the doubleheader 8-1. In the Braves win, second baseman Sibby Sisti and left fielder Sid Gordon both hit home runs. Braves pitcher Max Surkont pitched nine innings and allowed nine hits and two home runs with five walks and five strikeouts. The Braves played in Boston from 1871-1952 before the team moved to Milwaukee to become the Milwaukee Braves. (Associated Press photo, with this caption: “Brooklyn Dodgers Jackie Robinson steals home plate successfully as Boston Braves’ catcher Bill Salkeld is thrown off-balance on pitcher Bill Voiselle’s throw to the plate during the fifth inning of a Boston-Brooklyn game at Ebbets Field in New York on August 22, 1948. Third baseman Billy Cox, who was at bat, watches Jackie slide. The umpire is Jocko Conlan. The Braves won 4-3.”

A frame from The Beatles film, “A Hard Day’s Night.”

…In 1964, The Beatles’ film “A Hard Day’s Night” opened in the United States.

The first single on the spinning Apple was “Hey Jude,” released today in history.

…In 1968, The Beatles launched their new record label, Apple Records.

Two rings around Neptune are confirmed

…In 1989, the Voyager 2 Spacecraft discovered two partial rings of the planet Neptune.

Doug

Ren & Stimpy

Rugrats

…In 1991, the cartoons “Doug,” “Ren and Stimpy,” and “Rugrats” debuted on the Nickelodeon cable television channel.

Robin Williams in 2011

…In 2014, actor Robin Williams committed suicide at the age of 63. If you’re experiencing ideation of self-harm, please call 9-8-8 immediately.

300,000 year old skull found in China is unlike any others

MORE ABOUT THE SKULL FOUND IN CHINA:

The discovery of a huge fossilized skull that was wrapped up and hidden in a Chinese well nearly 90 years ago has forced scientists to rewrite the story of human evolution. Analysis of the remains has revealed a new branch of the human family tree that points to a previously unknown sister group more closely related to modern humans than the Neanderthals, Sample says in his story published on June 25.

(Neanderthals or Neandertals are an extinct species or subspecies of archaic humans who lived in Eurasia until about 40,000 years ago. Neanderthals are known from numerous fossils, especially from after 130,000 years ago).

The extraordinary fossil has been named a new human species, Homo Longi or “Dragon man”, by Chinese researchers, although other experts are more cautious about the designation. “I think this is one of the most important finds of the past 50 years,” said Professor Chris Stringer, research leader at the Natural History Museum in London, who worked on the project. “It’s a wonderfully preserved fossil.”
The skull appears to have a remarkable back story. According to the researchers, it was originally found in 1933 by Chinese laborers building a bridge over the Songhua River in Harbin, in China’s northernmost province, Heilongjiang, during the Japanese occupation. To keep the skull from falling into Japanese hands it was wrapped and hidden in an abandoned well, resurfacing only in 2018 after the man who hid it told his grandson about it shortly before he died. An international team led by Prof Qiang Ji at the Hebei Geo University in China drew on geochemical techniques to narrow down when the skull came to rest in Harbin, dating the bones to at least 146,000 years old. The skull has a unique combination of primitive and more modern features, with the face, in particular, more closely resembling Homo sapiens. One huge molar remains.

Phil Mickelson wins PGA Championship at age 50 (File photo from 2021)

MORE ABOUT THE PHIL MICKELSON GAMBLING STORY:

Phil Mickelson has denied an allegation made by Billy Walters that Lefty attempted to place a $400,000 wager on the U.S. team to win the 2012 Ryder Cup at Medina Country Club. An excerpt published by Golf Digest from Walters’ “Gambler: Secrets from a Life at Risk” outlines Mickelson’s betting habits and includes the allegation that Mickelson made a wager on the team event of which he was a participant.
After first choosing to avoid reporters at LIV Golf’s event at Trump National Bedminster, Mickelson broke his silence and pleaded his innocence in the matter.

“I never bet on the Ryder Cup,” Mickelson wrote in a statement. “While it is well known that I always enjoy a friendly wager on the course, I would never undermine the integrity of the game. I have also been very open about my gambling addiction. I have previously conveyed my remorse, took responsibility, have gotten help, have been fully committed to therapy that has positively impacted me and I feel good about where I am now.”
The excerpt claims Walters and Mickelson entered a sports wagering partnership in May 2008 with Mickelson placing bets through various offshore accounts. The six-time major champion would wager on baseball, football and basketball at both the professional and college levels. However, Walters alleges Mickelson wanted to place a hefty sum in September 2012 for the Ryder Cup while Mickelson was a member of the U.S. team:
In late September 2012, Phil called me from Medina Country Club just outside Chicago, site of the 39th Ryder Cup matches between the United States and Europe. He was feeling supremely confident that the American squad led by Tiger Woods, Bubba Watson, and Phil himself was about to reclaim the Cup from the Euros. He was so confident that he asked me to place a $400,000 wager for him on the U.S. team to win. I could not believe what I was hearing.
“Have you lost your f—ing mind?” I told him. “Don’t you remember what happened to Pete Rose?” The former Cincinnati Reds manager was banned from baseball for betting on his own team. “You’re seen as a modern-day Arnold Palmer” I added. “You’d risk all that for this? I want no part of it.”
“Alright, alright,” he replied.

The U.S. team ultimately lost the 2012 Ryder Cup 14.5 to 13.5 after taking a substantial 10 to 6 lead into Sunday singles. Mickelson was among those players to lose his singles match as Justin Rose overcame a late deficit by winning the last two holes to flip the match and defeat Mickelson 1 UP.
Whether Mickelson actually placed this wager remains unknown, and his partnership with Walters came to an end just two years later in 2014.
“My gambling got to a point of being reckless and embarrassing. I had to address it,” Mickelson told Sports Illustrated last summer. “And I’ve been addressing it for a number of years. And for hundreds of hours of therapy. I feel good where I’m at there. My family and I are and have been financially secure for some time.”

Police are investigating a deadly crash that claimed the life of a Batavia woman.  Around 4pm on Thursday two cars collided in the Town of Pembroke on rt 5.  It was determined that a tan 2007 Ford Freestyle driven by 34 year old Nikki Stonebraker of Batavia had crossed the centerline at high speeds and struck a 2013 Dodge Caravan.  The operator and passenger of the Dodge Caravan were transported to Erie County Medical Center with severe injuries. Genesee County Coroner Karen Lang pronounced Stonebraker dead at the scene. The cause of the collision is still under investigation by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. 

State Congresswoman Claudia Tenney cosponsored a bill that would help volunteer first responders with housing costs.  Specifically, this bill would expand eligibility for the Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Division and the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Good Neighbor Next Door Sales Program.  In introducing the bill, Tenney cited how rural communities depend on volunteers and how the state needs to provide assistance and incentives for those volunteers who sacrifice so much for their communities. 

The Batavia Players Summer Youth Theater Program presents Cry Baby starting tonight at their location at Main St 56 Theatre.  Based in 1954, when everyone likes Ike, nobody likes communism, and Wade “Cry-Baby” Walker is the coolest boy in Baltimore, this show features a bad boy with a good cause: truth, justice and the pursuit of rock and roll.  Audiences will get to experience the new theatre which the company has been working on for the last year.  They still have a long way to go in renovating the space.  So far about 41 thousand of the 265 thousand dollar goal has been reached according to Director Patrick Burke.  Most of those funds were raised before COVID and went to rent and utilities and insurance while they were unable to do productions or much work.  Burke says now they need to work hard on raising money again but want people to see what they have been able to do so far.  Shows start at 7:30 tonight and Saturday.  Sunday has a 2pm matinee performance.  Tickets are 18 dollars for adults and 16 for students and seniors. 

Assemblyman Steve Hawley says the new insurance law is not well thought out.  There’s a new law that went into effect on August 1 that automatically enrolls you in supplemental spousal liability coverage. Hawley said you’re maybe looking at roughly five dollars added to your monthly bill, depending on your insurance.  This coverage is for when a married couple is involved in a car accident. Before August a spouse could not sue their husband or wife to recover money from the partner’s insurance company unless they chose to have this liability insurance on their policy. Under new state law, that exception has become the standard. Drivers will pay the fee whether they’re married or not.  If you’re a driver in New York State and considered single, you can opt out of this.

Fisher-Price has unveiled the 2023 edition of its Buffalo Bills “Little People” figurine set.  The toy maker is once again teaming up with Wegmans stores across Upstate New York to sell the toys. Starting Friday, fans can purchase their very own Buffalo Bills Little People Collector set at Wegmans stores throughout the Buffalo, Rochester, Southern Tier and Syracuse areas.  This year’s set includes quarterback Josh Allen, tight end Dawson Knox, linebacker Von Miller and a Bills “Super Fan.”  Fisher-Price will donate $10 of each set, up to $1 million, when purchased at Wegmans stores, to The Children’s Hospital of Buffalo Foundation providing philanthropic support to John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital.

Target is recalling over two-million scented candles that might shatter while burning.  The recall issued Thursday affects five-and-a-half ounce one-wick candles and 20-ounce three-wick candles sold in glass jars.  Target says it has received 19 reports of the jars shattering while the wick is burning.  The Consumer Product Safety Commission says anyone who bought one of the candles should stop using it and return it to Target for a full refund.

Ian Milam

A Spencerport teacher is in serious trouble with the law after being arrested on child pornography charges. The U.S. Attorney’s Office says 37-year-old Ian Milam allegedly posed as a high school student on Snapchat and sent and received sexually explicit videos and photos. Milam is a sixth grade math teacher at Cosgrove Middle School. He is expected to be back in court again next week and faces decades in prison if convicted.

52-year-old Larry Keene of Binghamton

Dates of Incidents: August 8, 2023 — August 9, 2023
Location of Incident: Town of Darien
Arrested was: Larry L. Keene, age 52 of Binghamton, New York Charged with:
– Attempted Burglary in the Second Degree, a class D Felony of the New York State Penal Law
– Burglary in the Third Degree (2 Counts), a class D Felony of the New York State Penal Law
– Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, a class D Felony of the New York State Penal Law
– Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree, a class D Felony of the New York State Penal Law
– Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Third Degree, a class D Felony of the New York State Penal Law

On August 8, 2023 into August 9, 2023, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a burglary and motor vehicle thefts in the Town of Darien. Genesee County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded, taking reports and disseminating information about the stolen vehicles, which included a tractor and 2 pickup trucks. On August 8, 2023, one of the pickup trucks, which had been hauling a trailer, was located parked roadside in the Town of Darien. On August 9, 2023, the other stolen pickup truck was reported to be eastbound on State Route 20 in the Town of Darien. The pickup truck was located by patrols including Genesee County Sheriff’s Investigators and a New York State Police Investigator on State Route 20 in the Town of Pavilion. The suspect, Larry L. Keene was allegedly operating the stolen pickup truck. He was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Genesee County Jail pending arraignment.

The investigation found that on August 8, 2023, Keene allegedly committed the above listed crimes after entering multiple buildings on a residential property, attempting to enter a residence and stealing a tractor as well as other items from inside of a barn.

Keene was arraigned in the Genesee County CAP Court by the Honorable J. Nenni. Keene was remanded to the Genesee County Jail due to having two or more previous felony convictions.
Following Keene’s arrest, a continuing search of the area resulted in locating and recovering the tractor, which had been abandoned in the Town of Darien.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office Road Patrol Division and Criminal Investigation Division conducted the investigation with assistance from the New York State Police and members of the public.

Governor Hochul

Governor Hochul has announced the launch of the first-ever statewide cybersecurity strategy that she hopes will be a blueprint for the nation. The governor says the goal is to protect infrastructure, all government agencies, and personal information. The state budget has provided money to help local governments strengthen their defenses against cyber threats. Thousands of New Yorkers are affected by cyber attacks each year.

Officials with the Erie County Department of Health are working to prevent the spread of tuberculosis among migrants. So far, at least one asylum seeker has been diagnosed with the illness. The case was discovered during a routine health screening and the individual was quickly placed in isolation. The health department is going to use state funding to provide vaccines to migrants.

Barbara Sam

A pedestrian has been killed after being struck by a vehicle in the parking lot of Tops Friendly Markets store in Dunkirk. The tragedy happened yesterday when 69-year-old Barbara Sam of Dunkirk was walking north in the parking lot of Tops. She was pronounced deceased at the scene. The cause of the incident remains under investigation. (Provided photo)

The New York State Fair is under two weeks away, and organizers have revealed the rules that’ll be in effect for smokers at this year’s event. There will be new designated areas for smokers located about 50 feet outside of five pedestrian gates. That means there won’t be smoking allowed either inside or outside on the fairgrounds property itself. Fairgoers can smoke in designated areas before entering, and if they leave, they’ll need to get a re-entry wristband to return.

Artist rendering of new Bills’ stadium

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: Three months since construction began on their new stadium, the Buffalo Bills are already facing a potential cash crunch with the latest projections having the team on the hook for as much as $300 million in cost overruns. What was initially estimated to cost $1.4 billion in March 2022, and increased to $1.54 billion months later, is now projected to have jumped to $1.65 billion and approaching $1.7 billion. The rising price tag is notable because the Bills are contractually required to cover any overruns beyond the then-agreed to cost of $1.4 billion as part of the tentative deal the team reached with the state and Erie County 16 months ago. The Bills are funding their share through the NFL’s G4 loan program. The rest of the money is being raised through a first-time seat licensing fee for season-ticket holders. It’s unclear how the Bills would make up the difference, and what cost-cutting measures they can make to the design of a 60,000-plus seat facility being built across from their current home in Orchard Park, New York

ELSEWHERE…

Subway is offering free sandwiches for life to someone who will change their name to Subway, and plenty of people are interested. The sandwich shop chain says over ten thousand people have submitted entries indicating a willingness to make the name change. Subway is planning to select a single winner from the pool of applicants, giving the person $50,000 worth of gift cards. The winner will also receive $750 to help cover the cost of the actual legal name change.

A new COVID variant is spreading through the U.S. “EG.5” is causing about 17% of new COVID-19 cases in the nation. The CDC says EG is a spin-off of another strain. This new variant comes just as hospitalizations for COVID are rising in the U.S.

File photo of a TSA checkpoint

The summer travel season is still in high gear, and the TSA is providing some simple tips to help folks get through airport security smoothly. To make the screening process go quicker, take all items out of your pockets and place them in your carry-on bag. When buying a ticket online, make sure to enter your full name as it appears on your ID so it matches your boarding pass. Also, never bring a firearm to a security checkpoint or make a joke about having an explosive device.

Today is Thursday, August 10th, the 222nd day of the year.

August 10 in history…

Mount Rushmore, Spring 1927: Danish-American sculptor Gutzon Borglum at work

…In 1927, Mount Rushmore in South Dakota was formally dedicated.

Emperor Hirohito in May 1988

…In 1945, Japan announced they would surrender as long as Emperor Hirohito would be remained uncharged. This comes a day after the atomic bombing of Nagasaki.

Jim Morrison with attorney Max Fink

…In 1970, Jim Morrison of The Doors entered court to face charges of allegedly exposing himself to an audience in Miami.

Paul McCartney being arrested for drug possession

…In 1972, Paul and Linda McCartney were arrested for drug possession in Sweden.

During the arrest of David Berkowitz

…In 1977, David Berkowitz was arrested in Yonkers, New York. He was accused of being the serial killer known as “Son of Sam.”

Pete Rose during better days

…In 1981, Pete Rose of the Philadelphia Phillies became the National League’s all-time hit leader by smacking hit number 3,631.

Former Governor Cuomo resigned today in history

….In 2021, Governor of New York Andrew Cuomo resigned from his position after a sexual harassment scandal.

Security Camera Photo of Person of Interest

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating a rash of stolen vehicles in the area of Broadway Road and Sumner Road in Darien.  According to the Sheriff’s Office, there was a gray F150 pickup truck stolen Wednesday morning on Sumner Road.  Deputies recovered a stolen truck/trailer Tuesday afternoon in the Seven Day and County Line Road area that was originally stolen from Broadway Road Tuesday. A red Mahindra tractor with enclosed cab was stolen from the area of 1682 Broadway Road Tuesday afternoon about 1:30PM.  Residents say a male subject was seen driving away in it at about 2:20PM.  It has not been found.  Police are asking anyone with information about the thefts to call 911 or 585 345 3000.

A new pilot program is offering support to families at risk of poverty-related neglect.  The New York State Office of Children and Family Services is launching a pilot program that will help approximately 150 households across three counties: Monroe, Onondaga and Westchester.  The Direct Cash Transfer program will help 50 families in Monroe County, providing them with $500 per month, without conditions, for one year, totaling $6,000.  Local leaders said the program will track and gauge how a universal cash stipend can impact and potentially decrease families’ future contact with the child welfare system.  Monroe County legislators say that direct cash payments will stop violence.  Critics say that direct cash payments make people dependent on the government, is unfair to taxpayers and will increase crime as people will be idle since they don’t have to work.  

Three months since construction began on their new stadium, the Buffalo Bills are already facing a potential cash crunch with the latest projections having the team on the hook for as much as $300 million in cost overruns.  What was initially estimated to cost $1.4 billion in March 2022, and increased to $1.54 billion months later, is now projected to have jumped to $1.65 billion and approaching $1.7 billion.  The rising price tag is notable because the Bills are contractually required to cover any overruns beyond the then-agreed to cost of $1.4 billion as part of the tentative deal the team reached with the state and Erie County 16 months ago.  The Bills are funding their share through the NFL’s G4 loan program. The rest of the money is being raised through a first-time seat licensing fee for season-ticket holders.  It’s unclear how the Bills would make up the difference, and what cost-cutting measures they can make to the design of a 60,000-plus seat facility being built across from their current home in Orchard Park, New York.

A deputy resigning is costing the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office 2 deputies.  Deputy Andrew Mullen is resigning and moving out of state and is taking his k9 unit, Frankie, with him.  Mullen has been Frankie’s handler for about 3 years and the dog has bonded with him.  The dog will become Mullen’s pet and will not continue with any kind of police work in the future.  Sheriff William Sheron said that Frankie has anxiety and separation issues when not with Mullen and it was very expensive even when Mullen went away on vacation for a few weeks.  Committee members agreed with the request, and it will be passed on to the Ways and Means Committee and to the county Legislature for final approval.

The Buffalo based seasoning company Que42 has announced that Bills Long Snapper Reid Ferguson is joining their team as the CGO or Chief Grilling Officer.  The company, founded in 2021 with Eammon Azizi as CEO and Bridget Thornton as COO, makes BBQ sauces and rubs.  They specialize in making products they say are inspired by specific regions in the US such as a Carolina mustard based BBQ sauce and a Kansas City sauce and rub.  Ferguson, now on the ownership team, is set to release his own style sauce and rub in the future.

The National Buffalo Wing Festival will return to Highmark Stadium on September 2 and September 3.  Organizers say there will be 23 local, regional, national, and international eateries serving more than 100 styles of chicken wings.  Other activities include: Live music, Baby wing pageant, Amateur and XXXHot Wing Eating Contest, Celebrity influencer sauce-off competition, Bobbing for wings and Wing It On! United States Buffalo Wing Eating Championship. This is the third consecutive year the festival will be held at Highmark Stadium. General admission will be $20 per person/per day and all tickets are sold at the gate cash only, kids 8 and under are free. Parking is also free. Food tickets are an additional fee and are also cash only.

34-year-old Christopher Parker of Batavia has been arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child and harassment, with physical contact. It’s alleged Parker shoved his girlfriend in front of their children leaving abrasions on her arm. He was transported to the Genesee County Jail and is scheduled for arraignment in CAP Court.

Jesus Guzman-Bermudez

An asylum-seeker from Venezuela is expected to be in court today after being charged with a rape in Cheektowaga. Prosecutors say this alleged incident involving 26-year-old Jesus Guzman-Bermudez happened at a hotel on Genesee Street, and that he knew the victim. The crime also occurred in the presence of a three-year-old child. Guzman-Bermudez is behind bars without bail and faces decades in prison if convicted.

48-year-old Michael Daly of Cheektowaga has pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Investigators conducted searches of his electronics and recovered over 200,000 images and 95 videos, some of which depicted violence. Daly’s sentencing is scheduled for December 8th.

More details have been released on a deadly shooting that involved a New York State Trooper. On Sunday, Trooper Dominick Caito saw a vehicle with an expired inspection near Innovative Field in Rochester and attempted to stop the driver, who was identified as Daniel Legler. Legler sped away, which triggered a pursuit that ended near the Rochester Tech Park in Gates. When Caito tried to take Legler into custody, Legler fired a shot towards him. Caito then returned fire and killed Legler. State Police say Caito followed his training.

Some of the cards Kyle Bertrand attempted to sell (provided photo)

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: A Greece man is heading to prison after being convicted of wire fraud for selling sports cards that he either never possessed or never intended to deliver. 35-year-old Kyle Bertrand advertised collectible sports cards between October 2021 and February 2022 that were highly valued. After negotiating a price with a buyer and receiving payment, he would send empty boxes or cards of negligible value. In some cases, according to prosecutors, Bertrand stole cards by purchasing them from sellers and later disputing the charges through his credit card company, revoking the payment. Prosecutors said Bertrand defrauded six victims in Florida, Ohio, Missouri and Pennsylvania out of approximately $33,360. A judge sentenced him to serve 27 months in prison and pay restitution.

File photo of the Erie County Fair

For the 183rd time, the Erie County Fair got underway today at the fairgrounds in Hamburg. There are plenty of fun activities such as rides, games, and concerts and there will also be plenty of good food to eat. The gates opened at 11:00 and the fair is scheduled to run through Sunday, August 20th. A full list of events that are scheduled in the coming days is available at Ecfair.org.

It is early August and the height of summer, which often means the peak of “bat season” for local health departments and when people more commonly have encounters with bats. Bats can sometimes find their way into houses, particularly in older homes that are not properly sealed. This most often occurs during summer nights. If you find a bat in your home, it is extremely important to safely capture the animal if it is suspected to have been in contact with people, pets or livestock so that it can be tested for rabies. If the bat cannot be captured, you should call the health department for advice and next steps. It is important to seek medical advice and have the bat tested.

The tornado that touched down in Central New York on Monday

The National Weather Service is confirming that a tornado touched down in the Central NY region earlier this week. The twister landed in the Tompkins County community of Harford Monday evening before traveling to McGraw, in Cortland County. The tornado reached a top speed of 90 miles-an-hour and it was roughly 200 yards wide. A Weather Service crew will be in Oneida County today to see if there was also a tornado in Vernon.

File photo of car during a flood

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is reminding people to beware of flood damage if they’re looking to buy a used car. The agency says after severe weather events like the ones that have happened in New York this year, there is often an increase in the marketing and sale of vehicles that have been affected by water. It’s recommended people research the vehicle they want before buying it online, from a used car dealer, or in a private sale. For more information, go to dmv.ny.gov.

File photo of Josh Allen

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has been ranked 8th on the list of the best 100 players in the National Football League. Last year, Allen was 13th in the rankings that are put together by feedback received from players. Allen has already thrown for more than 18,000 yards and tossed 138 touchdowns in his career. Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes took the top spot on this year’s list.

ELSEWHERE…

Whoa Mars, slow down. You’re making me dizzy.

The planet Mars is spinning faster. Belgium scientists say data from NASA’s decommissioned InSight Mars lander led them to discover the planet’s rotation is accelerating by about four-milliarcseconds per year (1000 milliarcseconds equals one second). The scientists said it could be from the ice accumulating on the polar caps, which results in a rise in land mass. Officials say they’ll continue analyzing the data.

Lucky dog…

There’s finally been a winner in the over one-point-five billion dollar Mega Millions Jackpot. The Mega Millions Website says the winning ticket was sold in Florida. Two previous Powerball jackpots are the only U.S. lottery wins to ever exceed the current Mega Millions sum.

Da’vian Kimbrough

The youngest professional athlete in American team sports calls the Sacramento Republic FC home. Thirteen-year-old Da’vian Kimbrough, a member of the soccer club’s youth development academy, has signed his first professional contract. He is now eligible to compete for a spot on the first team. Per club policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed. In two academy seasons, he scored 61 goals and was named Most Valuable Player in 2023 at a prestigious under-13 international tournament.

The judge overseeing former President Trump’s 2020 election interference case has scheduled a hearing for Friday in Washington, DC. It’s likely to determine what rules should be imposed for the handling of evidence. The Justice Department recently filed for a protective order, asking the judge to place some limits on Trump’s speech about the case. Trump’s lawyers responded this week, claiming the order violates the First Amendment.

File photo of teacher Abigail Zwerner

New police documents show the six-year-old Virginia boy who shot his elementary school teacher later boasted about it. Redacted search warrants were unsealed this week, and claim the boy was bragging about the shooting when a faculty member restrained him. Teacher Abigail Zwerner is still recovering from the January shooting.

COVID-19 hospitalizations in the U.S. are on the rise for the second week in a row. According to the CDC, the number of people being hospitalized for the virus surged more than 12%. But in nearly half of the U.S. states, the spike is much higher — many states across the country say more than a 20% increase.

Today is Wednesday, August 9th, the 221st day of the year.

August 9 in history…

Northern Maine: The green line represents how the treaty resolved the border dispute

…In 1842, The U.S. and Canada signed the Webster-Ashburton Treaty. The Treaty resolved issues over the border. (The Webster–Ashburton Treaty was a treaty that resolved several border issues between the United States and the British North American colonies (the region that became Canada). Signed under John Tyler’s presidency, it resolved the so-called Aroostook War.The provisions of the treaty included:
· The settlement of the location of the Maine–New Brunswick border,[1] which was the primary cause of the Aroostook War.
· Establishment of the border between Lake Superior and the Lake of the Woods, originally defined in the Treaty of Paris in 1783;
· Reaffirmation of the location of the border (at the 49th parallel) in the westward frontier up to the Rocky Mountains defined in the Treaty of 1818;
· Definition of seven crimes subject to extradition;
· Agreement that the two parties would share use of the Great Lakes;
· Agreement that there should be a final end to the slave trade on the high seas.
The treaty also retroactively confirmed the southern boundary of Quebec that land surveyors John Collins and Thomas Valentine had marked with stone monuments in 1771–1773. The treaty intended that the border be at 45 degrees north latitude, but the border is in some places nearly a half mile north of the parallel. The treaty was signed by United States Secretary of State Daniel Webster and British diplomat Alexander Baring, 1st Baron Ashburton.)

Nathan Ames

…In 1859, Nathan Ames patented the escalator.

An early washing machine

…In 1910, A.J. Fisher received a patent for the electric washing machine.

Jesse Owens

…In 1936, Jesse Owens became the first American to win four medals in one Olympics.

…In 1944, Smokey Bear made his debut as a “spokes bear” for forest fire prevention. Click below for more about Smokey on his special day:

Atomic cloud over Nagasaki Japan; August 9, 1945

…In 1945, three days after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Nagasaki, Japan. The blast and its after effects killed an estimated 74,000 people.

Jerry Garcia

…In 1995, Rock and Roll Hall-of-Famer Jerry Garcia died at the age of 53 from a heart attack. He was the lead singer and co-founder of the Grateful Dead.

Monroe County is housing 77 migrants seeking asylum in Rochester.  The migrants were sent Monday night from New York City and are being housed at the Holiday Inn on State Street.  The group, made up of 21 families, includes 30 children and a pregnant woman.  Monroe County Executive Adam Bello noted the migrants are in the U.S. legally as they wait for their applications to be processed — and more migrants are expected to be relocated to the area in the coming weeks.  He also said New York City is footing the bill for the migrants’ food, shelter, medical needs and other necessities.  In May Bello signed an executive order banning bussing of migrants from NYC to Monroe County.  He said that these 77 are different because a plan is in place from NYC for how to pay for them.

New York State Police on Tuesday broke down the events that led to a trooper shooting and killing a man after a police chase Sunday night in Gates.  Police said Trooper Dominick Caito, a 9-year veteran of the force, ran the plates of a vehicle on Interstate 490 near Innovative Field shortly before 9:30 p.m. Sunday and found an expired inspection.  When Caito tried to stop the vehicle, the driver, 35 year old Daniel Legler of Chili, allegedly sped off and prompted a chase that ended when he crashed while exiting State Route 531 at Rochester Tech Park.  Trooper Caito approached the car where there was a struggle to get handcuffs on Legler and Legler fired an illegal handgun.  Trooper Caito backed up and fired once, killing Legler.  New York State Police say that Caito followed his training and did the right thing.

A Greece man is heading to prison after being convicted of wire fraud for selling sports cards that he either never possessed or never intended to deliver.  35 year old Kyle Bertrand advertised collectible sports cards between October 2021 and February 2022 that were highly valued. After negotiating a price with a buyer and receiving payment, he would send empty boxes or cards of negligible value.  In some cases, according to prosecutors, Bertrand stole cards by purchasing them from sellers and later disputing the charges through his credit card company, revoking the payment.  Prosecutors said Bertrand defrauded six victims in Florida, Ohio, Missouri and Pennsylvania out of approximately $33,360. A judge sentenced him to serve 27 months in prison and pay restitution.

The National Weather Service is confirming that a tornado touched down in the Central NY region earlier this week.  The twister landed in the Tompkins County community of Harford Monday evening before traveling to McGraw, in Cortland County.  The tornado reached a top speed of 90 miles-an-hour and it was roughly 200 yards wide.  A Weather Service crew will be in Oneida County today to see if there was also a tornado in Vernon.

It is early August and the height of summer, which often means the peak of “bat season” for local health departments and when people more commonly have encounters with bats.  Bats can sometimes find their way into houses, particularly in older homes that are not properly sealed. This most often occurs during summer nights. If you find a bat in your home, it is extremely important to safely capture the animal if it is suspected to have been in contact with people, pets or livestock so that it can be tested for rabies. If the bat cannot be captured, you should call the health department for advice and next steps.  It is important to seek medical advice and have the bat tested.

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has been ranked eighth on the list of the best 100 players in the National Football League.  Last year, Allen was 13th in the rankings that are put together by feedback received from players.  Allen has already thrown for more than 18-thousand yards and tossed 138 touchdowns in his career.  Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes took the top spot on this year’s list.

Thomas Tacito

FROM THE GENESEE COUNTY SHERIFF: Thomas M. Tacito, 63, of Park Rd., Batavia, NY, is charged with arson 5th degree/intentionally damaging property, a class A misdemeanor, after intentionally damaging property by fire at 8212 Park Rd., the Relax Inn, in Batavia on July 28, 2023 at 1:02p.m.

Tacito was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing, was arraigned in CAP Court and held.

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Duane E. Andrews, 47, of Niagara Falls, NY, is charged with criminal contempt first degree and aggravated family offense, after allegedly striking another person in the town of Batavia on Park Road, August 1, 2023 at 10:47p.m., violating an order of protection during a domestic incident.

Andrews was also charged with DWI, stop/stand/parking on a highway, failing to use/improper use of 4-way flashers, and operation of a motor vehicle by an unlicensed driver.

Andrews was held for CAP Court and arraigned on August 2, 2023 at 9:00a.m.

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Karli P. Teitsch, 31, of Cedarvale Rd., Syracuse, NY, was arrested on July 18, 2023 at 9993 Alleghany Road in Darien, after allegedly operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

Teitsch is charged with aggravated DWI/PER SE, driving with a BAC of .18% or more/1 prior conviction within 10 years, DWI/previous conviction within 10 years, aggravated unlicensed operation first degree, circumventing an interlock device and operation of a motor vehicle by an unlicensed driver.

Teitsch is due to appear in Darien Town Court on August 8, 2023 at 4:00p.m.

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Katherine F. Donohue, 29, of Mercer Ave., Rochester, NY, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08% or more, driving to the left of pavement markings, moving from a lane unsafely and following too closely, after she was stopped on Rt. 33 in Pembroke, NY for traffic infractions on August 4, 2023 at 11:30p.m.

After an investigation, it was determined that Donohue was allegedly intoxicated by alcohol. She was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and issued uniform traffic tickets and released.

Donohue will appear in the Town of Pembroke Court on August 23, 2023 at 1:00p.m.

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Marcus C. Taylor Jr., 33, of Viking Way Brockport, NY, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08% or more and speeding in a 55mph zone, after a traffic stop on Rt.33 in Stafford on August 3, 2023 at 2:05a.m.

Taylor Jr. was released on appearance tickets and will appear in the Town of Stafford Court on September 12, 2023.

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Shawn M. Blanc, 29, of Warsaw, NY, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08% or more and parking on a highway on August 2, 2023 on Colby Road at 12:03a.m.

Blanc was released on an appearance ticket returnable to Darien Town Court on August 15, 2023 at 4:00p.m.

FROM THE BATAVIA CITY POLICE BLOTTER:

Andrew Draper

1. On 7/29/2023, Andrew J Draper (age 44) of Batavia, was arrested on an arrest warrant, from Batavia City Court. Draper was initially arrested on 8/24/2022 for Criminal Contempt 1st, after allegedly violating an order of protection. He was issued an appearance ticket, but failed to appear in court. The warrant was issued on 9/22/2022. On 7/29, Draper was located and arrested. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court on 7/30/2023.
2. On 8/3/2023, George J Budzinack (age 43) of Batavia, was arrested for Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 5th. Budzinack was arrested, after an investigation into an incident on 6/17/2023, where he was allegedly found to be in possession of a stolen cell phone. He was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court on 8/22/2023.
3. On 8/1/2023, Kayla M Geissler (age 31) of Batavia, was arrested for Petit Larceny. It’s alleged that Geissler stole merchandise from Tops, on West Main St. She was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court on 8/22/2023.
4. On 8/1/2023, Weldon J Ervin (age 31) of Batavia, was arrested for Criminal Contempt 2nd and Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd. On 8/1, Officers responded to the area of Richmond Ave and North Lyon St, for the report of a suspicious vehicle. Officers spoke with the occupants and identified Ervin as the front seat passenger. It was found that there was an order of protection between Ervin and the driver. When Police attempted to take Ervin into custody, he fled on foot. He was located a short time later, at a residence on Oak St, and arrested. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $5,000 cash bail, $10,000 bond and $20,000 partially secured bond.
5. On 7/31/2023, Matthew P Parker (age 33) of Batavia, was arrested for Petit Larceny. It’s alleged that Parker stole various items from Tops, on West Main St. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on 8/8/2023.
6. On 7/28/2023, Amber L Turner (age 30) and Angela M Samson (age 42), both of Batavia, were arrested for Making Graffiti. Turner and Samson were arrested after an investigation, where they were allegedly found to have spray painted the sidewalk, on South Main St. Both were issued appearance tickets and are due in Batavia City Court, on 8/8/2023.
7. On 7/29/2023, Jason T Knickerbocker (age 32) of Batavia, was arrested on a Bench Warrant, from Batavia City Court. Knickerbocker was initially arrested on 4/23/2022, after an investigation into an incident on 2/7/2022, where he was allegedly found to be operating a vehicle while impaired by drugs. A warrant was issued on 4/12/2023, after Knickerbocker allegedly failed to appear for a court appearance. He was arrested on 7/29/2023 and arraigned in CAP Court. He is due back in Batavia City Court, at a later date.
8. On 7/28/2023, Savannah T Parsons (age 19) of Groveland, was arrested on an Arrest Warrant, from Batavia City Court. Parsons was initially charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 2nd, along with several other traffic offenses, on 3/4/2023, after a traffic stop at Center St and Main St. The warrant was issued after Parsons allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court. A plea agreement was reached and Parsons was released.
9. On 7/28/2023, Jarrod A Grimmelt (age 27) of Attica, was arrested on an Arrest Warrant, from Batavia City Court. Grimmelt was initially charged on 7/26/2023, with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3rd, after a traffic stop on Law St. The warrant was issued after Grimmelt allegedly failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court, where he was fined and released.
10. On 7/24/2023, Bonjier M Albaram (age 27) of Rochester, was arrested on an Arrest Warrant, from Batavia City Court. Albaram was initially charged on 2/18/2023, with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3rd and Speeding, after a traffic stop on Ellicott St. The warrant was issued after Albaram allegedly failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court, where he was fined and released.
11. On 7/30/2023, Akeem R Gibson (age 33) of Lockport, was arrested for Criminal Trespass 2nd, Obstruction of Governmental Administration 2nd and Resisting Arrest. At about 3:31pm, on 7/30, New York State Police attempted to stop Gibson’s vehicle, for traffic violations. The vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit was initiated. The vehicle made its way into the City of Batavia on Bank St, where Batavia Police successfully deployed spike strips. The vehicle then pulled into the Northside Meadow Apartments, where Gibson fled on foot, into an empty apartment and barricaded himself inside. It was found that Gibson did not live in the apartment and did not have permission to be inside. Officers negotiated with Gibson for approximately two hours, before eventually breaching the door. Gibson was then taken into custody, without further incident. NYSP additionally charged Gibson with the related traffic violations. He was arraigned in CAP Court and is due in Batavia City Court, at a later date.
12. On 7/26/2023, Jeremiah L Hayes (age 29) of Leroy, was arrested for Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd and Speeding. Hayes was arrested following a traffic stop on West Main St, where he allegedly refused to identify himself or provide Police with his driver’s license. Hayes then allegedly refused to exit his vehicle. Hayes was then removed from the car by Police. Hayes was issued appearance tickets and is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court, on 8/9/2023.
13. On 7/29/2023, Crystal A Mounts (age 46) of Batavia, was arrested on a Bench Warrant, from Batavia City Court. Mounts was initially arrested in April of 2022, for stealing a package off a porch, on Ross St. She allegedly failed to appear in court and a warrant was issued, on 9/19/2022. Mounts was arraigned in CAP Court and is due in Batavia City Court, at a later date.

AND IN OTHER NEWS…

32-year-old Francisco Quinones of Buffalo was arrested at Darien Lake Theme Park, following police investigation. He’s charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance. It’s alleged Quinones had cocaine; he’ll return to court at a later date.

53-year-old Erik Roth of Elba has been found liable for $2 million in compensatory and $1 million in punitive damages to both of his victims. This civil trial verdict was issued in Supreme Court in Erie County last week. The details of the story go back to 2010, when Roth was alleged to have sexually abused to children between the ages of 3 and 6 from 2003 through 2006. Although indicted, Roth was determined not guilty in 2012. The Child Victims Act, which waives any statute of limitations on sex cases, allowed the individuals, now adult women, to file in civil court. Some of the evidence presented was drawings done by the women when they were girls along with testimony from therapists. The judge described the testimony and evidence as highly credible, which led to Roth being found liable.

Researchers now have estimates on how many people in Western New York, 65 and older, are living with Alzheimer’s dementia. The data suggests Genesee County comes in second place with a rate of 11.1 percent of people 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s. Erie County was first with 11.7 percent. The study found New York State has the second highest prevalence of the disease in the United States with 12.7 percent of the population over 65 living with the disease. A higher prevalence of Alzheimer’s dementia was estimated in the East and Southeastern regions of the U.S. Researchers say their findings could possibly expand Medicare coverage for Alzheimer’s drugs in heavily-impacted areas.

Buffalo police have issued a warning to everyone in our region about an ongoing scam that is targeting the city’s elderly residents. Scammers are calling people and claiming to be a family member who says that they need financial assistance after being involved in a car accident. The scammer then requests that the person put thousands of dollars worth of cash in an envelope and deliver it to a location using Uber or Lyft. Anyone who gets a suspicious call like this should hang up immediately and dial 911.

Sayid Nasir

A Depew man who brutally killed his estranged wife has been ordered to spend 25 years to life in prison for committing the crime. Prosecutors say 40-year-old Sayid Nasir went to the home of 33-year-old Nazeefa Tahir in November 2021 and stabbed her more than a dozen times. Nasir was convicted of murder in June. In addition to his time behind bars, he must stay away from his son and four other people for 100 years.

ELSEWHERE…

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: Community groups are calling for New York State and local levels to take action on the opioid epidemic and homelessness crisis. Groups like Save the Michaels say that they are overwhelmed with people coming asking for help with addictions and places to stay. Shelters are full and have to turn people away. The opioid crisis is getting worse in Erie County at the same time. They say fentanyl is being mixed in with cocaine and marijuana and people are dying on a near daily basis. This year, over 240 Erie county residents have passed away from a confirmed or suspected overdose, and 81-percent of those victims had a trace of cocaine in their system.

A brand-new cannabis E-commerce platform is now going to be providing service to folks who live in Western New York. Canterra offers customers the chance to order cannabis online and have it delivered right to their homes. In some cases, people could receive those products within just a few hours. But, the first round of deliveries won’t begin until this Friday. For more information, head to canterra.co

Please play responsibly.

Tonight’s Mega Millions jackpot is $1.55 billion. No one has matched the winning numbers since April. The lump sum payout amounts to a paltry $757 million, before taxes of course. If the estimated prize of $1.55 billion is reached and won, it would break the record of $1.53 billion set in 2018. Please play responsibly: The odds of picking all six winning numbers are one in 302 million. The drawing will be streamed tonight at megamillions.com

Home prices are up and reaching new highs across the country. A new report from Black Knight says prices went up by .8% in June after a long slowdown. Prices hit record levels in about 60% of major housing markets in the United States.

Today is Tuesday, August 8th, the 220th day of the year.

August 8 in history…

Edison’s mimeograph machine in 1892

…In 1876, inventor Thomas Edison received a patent for the mimeograph machine. Most people consider the machine the forerunner of the copy machine.

Modern kitchen, circa 1960.

Refrigerator prototype drawing from 1901

…In 1899, A.T. Marshall patented the refrigerator.

…In 1968, Richard Nixon was nominated for president at the Republican National Convention in Miami, Florida.

President Nixon, August 8, 1974

…And then, in 1974, President Richard Nixon announced in a national broadcast address he would resign the presidency the following day.

John Edwards on Nightline (ABC News photo)

John Edwards and Rielle Hunter

…In 2008, during an interview with ABC’s “Nightline,” former Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards admitted to having an extramarital affair in 2006. Edwards said his relationship with 42-year-old freelance filmmaker Rielle Hunter was short-lived and denied being the father of Hunter’s baby girl.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT – From this week in history: A Boston Red Sox player was considered a hero for the fast action he took.

Red Sox player Jim Rice helping 4-year-old child who was hit by a foul ball

The summary: August 7, 1982: A line drive foul ball hits Jonathan Keene, 4-year-old boy in the head at Fenway. Red Sox player Jim Rice realized immediately that it would take EMTs too long to arrive and cut through the crowd. He jumped from the dugout and picked up the boy. Rice placed him on the dugout floor, where the Red Sox medical team began to treat him. When the boy arrived at the hospital 30 minutes later, doctors reportedly said, without a doubt that Jim’s prompt actions saved the boy’s life. Rice returned to the game in a blood-stained uniform. But the story gets better: After visiting the boy in the hospital, and realizing the family was of modest means, Rice instructed the hospital’s business office to send the bill to him.

Tom Keane, Jonathan’s father, during a 2009 interview. (WMUR-TV 9, Manchester, NH photo)

The details: On Aug. 7, 1982, in a game between the Red Sox and White Sox at Fenway Park, Jim Rice saved a young boy’s life.
Here’s a look back at that day: It was the fourth inning, with the White Sox ahead, 3-0, and Red Sox second baseman Dave Stapleton rocketed a ball foul over the first base dugout.

Four-year-old Jonathan Keane, sitting two rows above the dugout alongside his father, Tom, and 2-year-old brother, had no time to react. The ball struck him in the face, and Jonathan was immediately in agony.

Tom initially thought the ball hit the dugout, and then he looked over and saw his son slouched over, covered in blood, and screaming. Jonathan had a large gash on his forehead, and everyone frantically called for help.

Team physician Arthur Pappas called Children’s Hospital while the medical team worked on Jonathan. They rushed him to the hospital, where doctors noted that Rice’s quick actions were instrumental in his survival.

“I think he saved my life,” Jonathan told WMUR-TV in 2009. “His reaction, and ability to stay cool in that situation, when really nobody else did anything, was remarkable.”

Jonathan Keane, still a Red Sox fan in 2009. (WMUR-TV 9, Manchester, NH photo)

The Boston Globe‘s Dan Shaughnessy wrote: Rice downplayed his dramatic role. “If it was your kid, what would you do?” he said. “The baby was crying and there was a lot of blood. I think he was more in shock than anything.”

Jonathan, who later graduated from North Carolina State University and became CEO of CustomerHD in Raleigh, North Carolina, has a scar over his left eye but no major lasting side effects. He has no memory of the event, but he threw out the first pitch the next spring and has since reconnected with Rice.

“I’ve hit home runs. I’ve driven in runs,” Rice said. “But as far as something that stands out, it’s probably the picture when I went up into the stands and took the kid out of the stands who was hit by the foul ball.”

Community groups are calling for New York State and local levels to take action on the opioid epidemic and homelessness crisis. Groups like Save the Michaels say that they are overwhelmed with people coming asking for help with addictions and places to stay.  Shelters are full and have to turn people away.  The opioid crisis is getting worse in Erie County at the same time.  They say fentanyl is being mixed in with cocaine and marijuana and people are dying on a near daily basis. This year, over 240 Erie county residents have passed away from a confirmed or suspected overdose, and 81-percent of those victims had a trace of cocaine in their system.  

Genesee county comes in number two in something very undesirable.  Researchers now have estimates on how many people in Western New York, 65 and older, are living with Alzheimer’s dementia.  Genesee County came in second place with a rate of 11.1 percent of people 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s.  Erie county was first with 11.7 percent.  The study found New York State has the second highest prevalence of the disease in the United States with 12.7 percent of the population over 65 living with the disease. A higher prevalence of Alzheimer’s dementia was estimated in the East and Southeastern regions of the U.S.  Researchers say their findings could possibly expand medicare coverage for Alzheimer’s drugs in heavily-impacted areas.

The Genesee County Planning Board is looking at a proposal for a new gas station and restaurant combo travel plaza at the Pembroke Exit from I 90.  The new development is planned to sit on a 49.6-acre parcel, which is currently undeveloped. The site contains several wetlands. The entrance roads must cross over Murder Creek to access the site.  Currently, the TA Travel Center, the Flying J Travel Center, and a new Speedway operate in the area.  In a separate project, the board is also being asked to consider a special use permit for multi-family development in the same area as the travel plaza.  Right now 100 acres are being developed as a distribution center on Allegheny road.  The Planning Board meets on Thursday.

5 years ago the Stumblin Inn in Elba burned down.  The venue was a favorite of local musical artists and a hangout for locals.  The Elba community came together on Saturday to recall some of those memories, celebrate the good times, listen to — and play — some favorite music, and help raise some money for a charity that benefits young adults and adolescents dealing with cancer.  There were three hours of music provided by Savage Cabbage, Dave Viterna, Mac, Front Porch Pickers, and Dylan Desmit.  The event was to benefit the Dear Jack Foundation and was organized by the Elba Betterment Committee. 

Buffalo police have issued a warning about an ongoing scam that is targeting the city’s elderly residents. Scammers are calling people and claiming to be a family member who says that they need financial assistance after being involved in a car accident. The scammer then requests that the person put thousands of dollars worth of cash in an envelope and deliver it to a location using Uber or Lyft. Anyone who gets a suspicious call like this should hang up immediately and dial 911.

In just a few hours, a very lucky lottery player could end up claiming what will likely be the largest Mega Millions jackpot in the game’s history. An estimated prize of one-point-five-five billion dollars is up for grabs, which would break the record of one-point-five-three billion dollars set in 2018. The odds of picking all six winning numbers are one in 302 million. The cost of a ticket is two-dollars, and the drawing will be streamed tonight at megamillions.com.

Darien Lake Amphitheater (file photo)

From the Sheriff’s Report: The following subjects were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the 50 Cent concert on 8/5/23:

Terrance L. Falk age 24 of Woodsmeadow Lane, Rochester, NY arrested for Assault 2nd after allegedly punching a female knocking her unconscious. Terrance was arrested and held for CAP Court.

The following six individuals were issued Appearance Tickets to appear in Darien Court on 9/5/23 @ 4 PM to answer the charges.

Eliecer Angulo age 27 of Haddon Rd Rochester, NY arrested for Criminal Trespass 3rd after allegedly kicking over a fence to enter restricted area of the venue.

Stephen J. Hunter age 38 of Demunn Rd. Beaver Dam, NY arrested for Harassment 2nd after allegedly pushing and fighting with Darien Lake Security.

Tyrell T. Lynch age 35 of 10th St. Niagara Falls, NY arrested for Harassment 2nd after allegedly pushing a Darien Lake Security Officer.

Megan L. Kendall age 34 of Lilac St Buffalo, NY arrested for Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd after allegedly interfering with Deputies making an arrest.

Jayson P. Lazan age 46 of Folger St. Buffalo, NY arrested for Harassment 2nd after allegedly punching another concert patron.

Giovanni E. Paige-Mota age 21 of Glide St. Rochester, NY arrested for Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd, Harassment 2nd and Disorderly Conduct after allegedly causing a disturbance and then fighting with Deputies.

The Genesee County Health Department has scheduled another anti-rabies clinic at the Genesee County Fairgrounds on Thursday, August 10th from 4:00pm to 6:30pm. Animals must be at least three months old, leashed or crated and accompanied by an adult who can control the animal at all times. The limit is four pets per car. There is no charge for the vaccine, but voluntary donations are accepted. For more information, call 344-2580. Or, visit GOHealthNY.org

Kaila Rivera

A Hamlin woman with a long history of stealing cars and who has pending robbery charges in Monroe County was arrested late last week for stealing a car in Kendall. 33-year-old Kaila Rivera was charged with grand larceny for the May 2022 theft of a car. She was arraigned and committed to jail pending a court appearance. Rivera’s long criminal history includes stealing a car in Ogden in 2015 and also forgery and robbery in 2016. She served a two-year prison term for that conviction. Last September, Rivera allegedly went on a crime spree, which included the robbery of a gas station and then fleeing in a stolen car. She was jailed briefly and released. The next day, Rivera stole $100 worth of items from a store in Gates and sped off in a stolen truck, nearly hitting a police investigator and bicyclist. She was later found at a motel in another stolen vehicle.

You may have noticed an increase in the price at the pump over the weekend. In Batavia the average price per gallon of regular gas went up by at least 13 cents in the last week. As of this morning, we’re paying $3.83 per gallon; that’s up 22 cents from a month ago but is still 62 cents cheaper than it was a year ago today. The state average is 3.90 and the national average is 3.83. Lots of people traveling and the rising price of oil are to blame for the increase. Triple A says that the price of oil has peaked and will drop off as people travel less. Hopefully, that means the prices will start to come down again soon.

File photo of Rochester General Hospital nurses striking (13WHAM)

Nurses at Rochester General Hospital are back to work following a two-day strike. They walked off the job last Thursday after their union and Rochester Regional Health couldn’t work out a new contract. The labor stoppage ended on Saturday morning and negotiations on a new agreement are ongoing. There are no plans at the moment for another strike, but the union says it’s always a possibility.

Jordan Phillips (file photo)

It looks like the Buffalo Bills could have one of their top defensive players on the field when the regular season starts next month. Jordan Phillips has been activated from the physically unable to perform list, and is now taking part in training camp at Saint John Fisher University. Phillips had been on the sidelines as he recovered from offseason surgery. Last year, the defensive tackle had one-and-a-half sacks in 12 games, but was hampered by a shoulder injury.

ELSEWHERE…

Please play responsibly.

It’s now just two days and counting until the drawing for the $1.5 billion Mega Millions jackpot. It’s been almost four months since the last Mega Millions winner and, after Friday night’s drawing, the jackpot rolled up to $1.55 billion. That would make it the largest Mega Millions jackpot in history and the 3rd biggest in U.S. lottery history. The lump sum payment is estimated at more than $757 million. The next drawing is Tuesday at 11 p.m. Eastern Time. Please play responsibly. ALSO: A website has been launched that is going to allow New Yorkers to buy lottery tickets online. Jackpot.com gives Empire State residents the opportunity to purchase tickets for popular games such as Mega Millions and Powerball without having to go to the store. People can present their tickets to be scanned on a phone or tablet, and if they win, they can transfer their prize money to a linked bank account. The CEO of jackpot.com says the hope is this site will allow more people to play the lottery.

Wilt Chamberlain

A Los Angeles Lakers jersey worn by Wilt Chamberlain is going up for auction later this month. Sotheby’s officials believe the home gold uniform worn by the late NBA legend will sell for about $4 million. Chamberlain wore the jersey during Game 5 of the 1972 NBA Finals between the Lakers and New York Knicks. That was the night the Lakers clinched their first championship since moving to Los Angeles in 1959. The seven-foot-one 275-pound center was part of a Lakers team that won 33 consecutive games during the 1971-1972 season — an NBA record that still stands. The jersey is currently on display at Sotheby’s Beverly Hills gallery. It will go up for bids online from August 28th to September 27th.

Unidentified happy couple – perhaps celebrating their recent retirement?

Over a third of Americans don’t believe they’ll ever make enough money to retire; that’s according to a recent study conducted by the Employee Benefit Research Institute. They found that roughly 36% of working Americans have little or no confidence in their financial security if they retired.

File photo of unidentified baby boy receiving vaccine

The CDC says all infants younger than eight months should now get a new antibody shot to protect against RSV. New CDC director Mandy Cohen has already signed off on the recommendation, which will add the RSV vaccine to the CDC’s childhood Immunization schedule. The CDC will also recommend a second dose of the vaccine for certain infants with underlying health issues.

I miss the Twitter blue bird logo.

Elon Musk says his ‘X’ social media platform will pay legal bills for people he says have been treated unfairly by their employers for posting or liking something on the site formerly known as Twitter. He made that pledge in a post on Saturday. Musk didn’t give any details on how X users could claim money for their legal fees.

Today is Monday, August 7th, the 219th day of the year.

August 7 in history…

…In 1782, during the Revolutionary War, United States General George Washington created the Order of the Purple Heart. It was re-established in 1932. The decoration honors the efforts of members of the U.S. armed forces wounded or killed in battle with opposing armed forces.

“Devil Anse” Hatfield and Randolph McCoy

…In 1882, the famous feud between the Hatfields of West Virginia and the McCoys of Kentucky broke out. The story behind the feud is provided below. Scroll to the bottom of today’s News Brief page to take a look.

Phillipe Petit

…In 1974, French daredevil Philippe Petit walked a tightrope strung between the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York.

Peter Jennings

…In 2005, veteran ABC News anchorman Peter Jennings lost his battle with cancer, just four months after announcing he had been stricken with the illness. The 67-year-old Jennings, a longtime smoker, died at his home in New York. Jennings had been the anchor of “World News Tonight” since 1983 and was with ABC for over 40 years. During his time at the network, Jennings covered a variety of major international stories including the Olympic hostage crisis in Munich in 1972 and the war in Vietnam.

AND NOW…let’s play ‘Family Feud’!

The Hatfields

The McCoys

Hatfields and McCoys, two American Appalachian mountaineer families who, with their kinfolk and neighbors, engaged in a legendary feud that attracted nationwide attention in the 1880s and ’90s and prompted judicial and police actions, one of which drew an appeal up to the U.S. Supreme Court (1888).

The Hatfields were headed by William Anderson (“Devil Anse”) Hatfield (1839–1921), and the McCoys by Randolph (“Rand’l”) McCoy (1839?–1921), each of whom fathered 13 children (some sources claim 16 for McCoy). The families lived on opposite sides of a border stream, the Tug Fork—the McCoys in Pike county, Kentucky, and the Hatfields in Logan county (or Mingo county, formed from a portion of Logan county in 1895), West Virginia. Each had numerous kinfolk and allies in the respective counties in which they lived.
The origins of the feud are obscure. Some attribute it to hostilities formed during the American Civil War, in which the McCoys were Unionists and the Hatfields were Confederates, others to Rand’l McCoy’s belief that a Hatfield stole one of his hogs in 1878. However, although animosities had built up and occasional fights had broken out, the first major bloodletting did not occur until 1882, when Ellison Hatfield was mortally shot in a brawl with McCoys and, in revenge, the Hatfields kidnapped and executed three McCoy brothers—Tolbert, Phamer, and Randolph, Jr.

These murders sharpened the backwoods warfare, and thereafter Hatfields and McCoys repeatedly ambushed and killed one another. Hatfields arrested in their home county and McCoys arrested in their home county were invariably released or acquitted of their deeds because of their respective local support and influence. Fighting reached a climax in 1888. On New Year’s Day a group of Hatfields led by Jim Vance attacked the home of patriarch Rand’l McCoy, missing him but shooting dead a son and a daughter and burning his houses. In retaliation, a posse of McCoys and neighbors, headed by a Pike county deputy sheriff, made successive raids across the border into West Virginia, killing Vance and at least three others, battling with a West Virginia posse, and eventually rounding up nine of the Hatfield clan for indictment and trial in Kentucky. West Virginia filed suit in federal court, charging kidnapping and lawlessness; Kentucky defended the abduction; and newspapers all over the country began carrying front-page stories of the feud and sending in reporters. Finally, in May 1888, a divided U.S. Supreme Court ruled (in Plyant Mahon v. Abner Justice, jailer of Pike County, Ky.) that Kentucky had the legal right to detain the accused for trial. The trials, later in the year, resulted in one sentence of death by hanging and eight sentences of imprisonment.

Although there were flare-ups thereafter, notably in 1896–97, the feuding gradually abated and had ended by the second decade of the 20th century. The Hatfield-McCoy legend was embellished by a brief love affair about 1880 between Johnson (“Johnse”) Hatfield and Rose Anna McCoy—an affair that was opposed and eventually broken up by the McCoys. Newspapers turned it into a Romeo-and-Juliet romance.

3 million dollars in damages, 6 stores closed and dozens of employees out of work after a fire at a shopping plaza in East Buffalo at the corner of Eggert and Kensington Saturday afternoon.  Investigators said the fire started in the office space between a laundromat and the Rent-A-Center in the plaza at Kensington Avenue and Eggert Road around 4:20 p.m. and spread to other businesses in the plaza.  Fire department officials said no injuries were reported and the cause of the fire is under investigation.  The stores that are now closed are Family Dollar, Olivia’s Oasis, Nickel City Laundromat, Buffalo SNUG Neighborhood Violence Prevention Center, DaVita Cleve-Hill Dialysis and Rent-A-Center.

5 people shot and at least one dead following multiple shootings on Clinton Ave in Rochester over the weekend.  Around 1am Saturday morning there was a gathering of hundreds of people in the Upper Falls area of Rochester when shots were fired near Siebert Place and Scrantom St.  Officers responded and found a 19 year old man shot in the head, he was taken to the hospital and is listed in grave condition.  Also a 26 year old woman was shot and is expected to survive.  Two cars were shot but no one was injured.  Another crowd gathered and even more people were pouring in when more shots were fired and a 13 year old girl and a 23 year old man were taken to the hospital and are in life threatening condition.  A 22 year old man was found shot in the head on Clinton and died shortly after being taken to the hospital.  At that same time, Rochester police said a 24-year-old woman was stabbed in the 700 block of North Clinton. She has non-life-threatening injuries.  1 person is in custody and several guns were recovered at the scenes of the shootings.

There will soon be a new way for adults in Western New York to buy cannabis; the region’s first online retailer is launching this week.  Canterra touts itself as the first cannabis E-commerce platform in the region.  The website is already up for Western New Yorkers to learn more about cannabis products.  When sales open this morning, the site will begin taking orders from all eight counties in Western New York, as well as Monroe County. Officials with Canterra say deliveries will start as soon as Friday, August 11.

The STAMP Board has decided to table the plans for a sewer line that was set to use eminent domain to run 9 miles through the Iroquois Wildlife refuge, over three private properties and then dump treated wastewater into Oak Orchard Creek which would then run into Native American lands.  After a public outcry against the 6 million gallon pipe at the meeting on July 27th the board, in executive session, decided to put the decision on hold.  People who spoke at the meeting were upset over the water running into the reservation being tainted by the dumping of wastewater, the pipe running through the wildlife refuge possibly leaking, and waste being dumped into waterways.  

You may have noticed an increase in the price at the pump over the weekend.  In Batavia the average price of a gallon of regular gas went up by at least 13 cents in the last week.  Currently it sits at 3.83 if you take member prices and discounts into effect but most people will be paying closer to 4 dollars.  Its high but not as high as last year when the price was 4.45.  The state average is 3.90 and the national average is 3.83.  Lots of people traveling and the rising price of oil are to blame for the increase.  AAA says that the price of oil has hit its top and is going to start falling off at the same time as people will start traveling less so gas should go back down soon.  

The GLOW Corporate Cup was held on Friday in Batavia and the winner of the 5K is Zac Jantzi who ran for the Bontrager Auction and Real Estate Team.  He had a time of 17 minutes and 16 seconds.  Last year he was 8 seconds slower and came in second place.  For the third straight year, Kim Mills of Oakfield and representing Batavia City Schools, was the top women’s runner, finishing with a time of 20:25.  There were a total of 605 people who completed the course either as runners or walkers.

Rochester family nearly hit by stray bullet during deadly shooting.  Several police officers are investigating a deadly shooting on Henion Street Friday evening.  Investigators say a man, 22, was walking from Main Street to Henion Street around 7 p.m..  That’s when police say a suspect fired multiple shots near the corner of Clifton Street, hitting the man at least once.  He ran a short distance away and collapsed in a driveway. He was pronounced dead at the scene.  During the investigation. officers were called to a nearby home where they say a stray round went through a wall and into a television.  Three children, under the age of 12, as well as an adult, were in the room watching that television at the time.  None of them were injured.  Investigators say it appears the victim was the intended target. A motive is not yet known.

The bridge on Fargo Rd over Black creek near Rt 63 and Little Canada Extension is set to be replaced starting August 14th.  The current 11-foot-wide jack arch bridge will be replaced with a modern 28-foot precast concrete arch bridge to meet hydraulic capacity requirements. This upgrade is crucial for maintaining smooth truck  routes, as Fargo Road serves as a super load route within the County.  The project is locally funded, with Ravi Engineering in Rochester leading as the Engineer and LC Whitford as the Contractor.  Construction is planned to continue until the end of November.  Fargo Road will be closed during the construction period.  

Are you running an arts related program and need funding?  The Statewide Community Regrant Program will be starting September 15th and running through November 1st.  GO ART! Is administering the program in the area.  Genesee and Orleans Counties nonprofit organizations and artists planning arts related programming, events, and public art are encouraged to apply.  The goal is to make state arts support available to geographically, economically, and ethnically diverse segments of the state’s population. In 2023, the SCR program provided $210,000 in funding for over 50 projects in Genesee and Orleans Counties.  GO ART! will be holding free informational SCR workshops in August and September at various locations throughout Genesee and Orleans counties. Applicants who have not attended an SCR  workshop in 2022 or 2023 are required to attend, prior to submitting an application for the  2024 cycle.

State Senator George Borello has introduced a bill to get New York City to build wind turbines.  The legislation mandates that New York City, the largest consumer of energy in the state and the most fossil fuel dependent, accept turbine installations at a rate equal to that of upstate New York.  Specifically, the legislation would prohibit the New York State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment from granting a certificate for the construction of an industrial wind turbine within New York State unless a certificate for a wind turbine within New York City was also issued.  Senator Borrello noted that upstate New York’s energy generation is already more than 90 percent emission-free, thanks to hydropower and nuclear resources.  In contrast, New York City’s energy production is largely dependent on fossil fuels.

Istahil Ahmed

Sincere Vines

Buffalo police are asking for help from the public as their search continues for two missing teenagers. They say 14-year-old Istahil Ahmed was last seen on Franklin Street and 13-year-old Sincere Vines was last spotted on Bailey Avenue. Officials say there’s no connection between these two cases. They are asking anyone with information on the whereabouts of the teens to call 9-1-1 immediately. (Additional information: She is about 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs about 153 pounds. She was last seen wearing khaki pants, a navy blue long-sleeve shirt and white sneakers. And 13-year-old Sincere Vines was last spotted on Bailey Avenue. He is about 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs about 230 pounds. He was last seen wearing black pants, a black hoodie and black and tan Adidas sneakers.)

The Genesee County Health Department has scheduled another anti-rabies clinic at the Genesee County Fairgrounds on Thursday, August 10th from 4:00pm to 6:30pm. There is no charge for the vaccine, 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 at all times. Limit 4 pets per car. For more information, call 344-2580.

Senator Schumer (file photo)

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced Thursday that United Food and Commercial Workers Local One, with more than 19,000 members and their families across Upstate New York, will receive a $764 million pension-fix payout from the American Rescue Plan. Employers like Tops Friendly Markets were victims of a pension system that collapsed after the 2008 economic crash. Without action, after a lifetime of hard work, many could not retire or would have paltry or zero pension benefits remaining, according to Schumer.

The TSA has found a loaded gun belonging to a Canandaigua man at Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport. The weapon was discovered yesterday as the man entered the security checkpoint. An investigation revealed he has a valid pistol permit, and the man also claimed that he forgot the gun was with him. This is only the second time so far this year a weapon has been spotted by airport security.

Governor Hochul has announced over $100 million in funding to help out schools across New York State. The money will be used to assist schools with addressing pandemic learning loss and offering additional mental health resources to students. The governor says the COVID-19 crisis had a devastating impact on kids and she believes this money will allow them to get back on a path towards success. Districts have until August 18th to request financial assistance.

In June Bills fans received a new license plate from the DMV and now Giants and Jets fans can get theirs. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles has released redesigned New York Jets and New York Giants license plates ahead of the 2023 NFL season. Jets and Giants fans can visit the DMV website to order NFL plates for passenger and commercial vehicles. The plates feature a background of helmets from the chosen team.

ELSEWHERE…

Jobs numbers from July come out this morning and analysts expect them to show 200,000 non-farm positions added. That would be the smallest gain since December 2020. Unemployment is expected to hold at 3.6%.

Robert Bowers

The man convicted of killing eleven people at a Pittsburgh synagogue has been sentenced to death. A judge handed down the death sentence on Thursday to 50-year-old Robert Bowers. Bowers was convicted in June on more than 60 charges in the 2018 shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue.

A number of Tesla owners are suing the automaker for fraud after a Reuters investigation discovered the company has been inflating the range estimates of its electric vehicles. The suit filed Wednesday in federal court in California accuses Tesla of exaggerating the estimated distance a vehicle can go on a single charge.

Please play responsibly.

Lottery players are hoping that luck is on their side as they try and win the fourth-largest jackpot in Mega Millions history. The top prize has risen to one-point-two-five billion dollars after no one claimed the jackpot Tuesday. There hasn’t been a jackpot winner since April when a winning ticket was bought in New York. The drawing will be streamed live tonight at megamillions.com  Please play responsibly.

The Stugots

Fans of the iconic HBO series The Sopranos can now own the family patriarch’s own boat. Tony Soprano’s fishing vessel, which was called the “Stugots”, has been listed for sale in Stamford, Connecticut through United Yacht Sales. The 1999 Cape Fear 47 Sportfish has since been renamed “Never Enough” by its former owner, who is listing the classic Carolina-style custom sport-fishing boat for just under $300,000. Featuring a large teak cockpit, two staterooms and two bathrooms for overnight guests, this piece of Sopranos history was the first of several owned by the infamous mob boss over the series’ lifetime.

Today is Friday, August 4th, the 216th day of the year.

August 4 in history…

Dom Perignon statue, Épernay, Champagne Region, France

…In 1693, Champagne was invented by French monk Dom Perignon.

Andrew and Abby Borden

Lizzie Borden

…In 1892, the parents of Lizzie Borden were found murdered at their home in Massachusetts. She was later arrested, tried, and acquitted.

…In 1942, the first train with Jewish people leaves for Auschwitz. Teenage girls went first. Pictured are five survivors of Auschwitz.

Margot, Otto, Anne and Edith Frank

…In 1944, 15-year-old Anne Frank and her family were discovered by Nazi police. The family had been hiding in secret quarters above her father’s factory in Amsterdam, Holland for more than two years. They were sent to a concentration camp in Holland, and in September Anne and most of the others were shipped to the Auschwitz death camp in Poland. In the fall of 1944, with the Soviet liberation of Poland underway, Anne was moved with her sister Margot to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in Germany. Suffering under the deplorable conditions of the camp, the two sisters caught typhus and died in February 1945. The British liberated the camp less than two months later. (Scroll to the bottom of today’s News Brief page for more about the Frank family.)

Joel Youngblood

…In 1982, Joel Youngblood became the first Major League Baseball player to play and get two hits for two different teams in the same day. During an afternoon game he drove in the winning run for the New York Mets. Once the game was complete, he was traded to the Montreal Expos and played in a night game in Philadelphia. He singled in the fourth inning.

Mary Kay Letourneau with boyfriend Vili Fualaau; at right in court

…In 2004, Mary Kay Letourneau, the former Washington state schoolteacher who was convicted of raping her sixth grade student, was freed from prison on this date. Letourneau was a 34-year-old married mother of four when she began having sex with 12-year-old student Vili Fualaau. She went on to bear two of his children. Both said they were involved in a love affair. Mary Kay Letourneau later wrote in a letter to a friend that she felt ‘deep regret’ for raping her 12-year-old student and later marrying him. Letourneau was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2020 and, while dying, wrote dozens of letters to friends and family to atone for her actions. A friend said she understood that ‘she had really made a mess of her life’.

More about the Frank family:

Anne Frank

Page 1 of Otto Frank’s letter

Page 2

Otto Frank escaped Nazi Germany with his wife and two daughters soon after Hitler came to power in 1933. They lived a peaceful life in Amsterdam until May 1940, when Nazi Germany invaded the Netherlands. Otto, determined to leave Europe with his family, contacted an old college friend in the United States for help.

In April 1941, Otto Frank was desperate. A decade earlier, he and his wife Edith had been happily living in Frankfurt, Germany, with their two young daughters, Margot and Anne. After experiencing the first wave of anti-Semitic attacks instigated by the new Nazi government, Otto and Edith decided in 1933 to move to the Netherlands for safety. After arriving in Amsterdam, Otto opened a company called Opekta, which manufactured products used for making jellies and jams, and his daughters started attending Dutch schools.

As the years passed, Frank watched with concern as Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime grew more aggressive. He considered moving to Great Britain, but his efforts to establish a factory there failed. Frank added his family’s names to the waiting list for American immigration visas in 1938, joining 200,000 other people born in Germany who also wanted to escape to the United States.
Two years later, Otto Frank was still awaiting his turn to be interviewed by the US consulate for an immigration visa. On May 10, 1940, Nazi Germany invaded Belgium, the Netherlands, and France. Within days of the invasion, Nazi aircraft bombed Rotterdam, destroying the US consulate building—and with it, the visa waiting list. US State Department officials attempted to reconstruct the list, asking everyone who had applied for immigration to contact the consulate. For some reason, Frank does not seem to have put his family’s names back on the list.

On April 30, 1941, Otto Frank wrote to his old friend, Nathan Straus Jr. (whose friends called him “Charley”), the son of the founder of Macy’s department stores. The two men had met more than 30 years earlier, while Frank was in college in Heidelberg, and had become fast friends.
“I am forced to look out for emigration and as far as I can see U.S.A. is the only country we could go to . . . You are the only person I know that I can ask: Would it be possible for you to give a deposit in my favor?”

FRANTIC CORRESPONDENCE

Nathan Straus Jr. worked for President Franklin Roosevelt’s administration. He had plenty of political contacts and enough wealth to sponsor the Frank family, and immediately told Otto that he would help. Edith Frank’s two brothers, Julius and Walter Holländer, both of whom had been arrested by the Nazis during Kristallnacht, had already managed to immigrate from Germany to Boston, Massachusetts. Neither of them had enough money to assist the Franks directly, but they were eager to help Straus. The three men corresponded with each other, working through the National Refugee Service, a US organization that helped Jewish refugees coordinate their immigration paperwork.

“BAD LUCK”

On June 11, 1941, only six weeks after Frank first asked him, Straus signed five copies of an affidavit for the Frank family, agreeing to sponsor their immigration. Five days later, the National Refugee Service informed Straus that the US State Department was implementing new rules, mandating that all immigration applications had to be approved in Washington, DC. This would delay the Frank family’s immigration for at least several months. Newspapers announced worse news that same day: Germany had ordered US consulates in Nazi-occupied territory to close. On July 10, State Department officials in Rotterdam reported to Washington that they had destroyed their visa stamps and closed the consulate. Frank had not finished collecting the necessary paperwork before the consulate closed. Even if he managed to gather everything, the Franks would have had to travel through multiple Nazi-occupied countries to reach a US consulate for an interview. During World War II, this travel was almost impossible. When Frank realized that his family would not be able to reach the United States, he responded stoically to Straus: “It is a pity that for the present all efforts will be useless as the American Consulate at Rotterdam is leaving . . . So we have to wait. Bad luck, but cannot be helped. Let us hope that conditions will get more normal again.”

CUBA?

On September 8, 1941, Otto Frank wrote to Nathan Straus again, this time raising the possibility of obtaining a tourist visa to Cuba. The chances of escape were slim: the Cuban consulate had also closed in the Netherlands. Frank heard rumors that he might obtain a Cuban visa in Spain or in Germany if he could get there. He also needed at least $2,825 (approximately $50,000 in 2018) for the visa fees and the bank deposit the Cuban government required. “I know that it will be impossible for us all to leave, even if most of the money is refundable, but Edith urges me to leave alone or with the children,” Frank wrote. Straus agreed to provide the deposit for the Cuban visa, and Julius Holländer added, “My brother and I will pay for the boat ticket and Cuban visa for Mr. Frank. If you give the necessary deposit . . . I promise you that it will be returned to you untouched, as we will support my brother-in-law while he remains in Cuba.” By December, the Holländers and Straus had prepared the money for Otto Frank’s visa. Frank planned to see whether the Nazi authorities would permit him to leave the Netherlands if he had a Cuban visa. If Otto could emigrate safely, Straus would then try to obtain Cuban visas for Edith, Margot, and Anne Frank.

NO ESCAPE

On December 11, 1941, Julius Holländer telephoned the National Refugee Service to thank them for their assistance, but the efforts to help the Frank family immigrate had failed. After Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor and Germany’s declaration of war against the United States, the Cuban government canceled Otto Frank’s visa application. It is likely that Cuban officials feared that German refugees would become stuck in Cuba indefinitely if the United States instituted even more national security screenings for new immigrants, or stopped accepting immigrants entirely.

On July 6, 1942, the Frank family went into hiding in the attic annex above the Opekta offices. They were joined by Herman and Auguste Van Pels and their son Peter, and later by dentist Fritz Pfeffer, all of whom were Jewish. Anne Frank, who had received a diary for her 13th birthday several weeks earlier, spent the next two years documenting her experiences in hiding. On August 4, 1944, Dutch police discovered and arrested the residents hiding in the annex. The Franks, Van Pels, and Pfeffer were sent first to the Westerbork transit camp in the Netherlands, and then placed on the final train sent from Westerbork to the Auschwitz-Birkenau killing center. Otto Frank was the only annex resident to survive the Holocaust. His wife Edith was murdered in Auschwitz-Birkenau, and daughters Margot and Anne died of typhus in the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in early spring 1945.

When Frank returned to Amsterdam after the war, one of his former employees, Miep Gies, who had helped the annex residents while they were in hiding, gave him his daughter Anne’s diary. Frank decided to publish it as The Secret Annex in 1947. Anne Frank’s diary has since been published in at least 70 languages and has become the most famous testimony of the Holocaust.

Anne Frank’s diary

Rochester has three shootings and a hit and run overnight with multiple people injured.  In total, five people were shot and one was struck by a vehicle.  The first incident happened just before 11 in the area of North Clinton Avenue and Siebert Place.  Officers say there were reports of several dozen gunshots, and they arrived within seconds to what they call a “chaotic scene with a large crowd.” They found a 20-year-old man who had been shot at least once in the upper body at that intersection. He’s listed in critical but stable condition.  A 37 year old woman and a 26 year old man were also shot at this location and are expected to survive.  Also at this location was the 32 year old man who was hit by a car as it sped away from the shooting.  He is expected to survive.  There was a shooting on Colvin Street around 12:40 with a 28 year old woman going to the hospital with non life threatening injuries and another shooting on Pennsylvania Ave with a 31 year old man shot and taken to the hospital.  Police don’t know if these shootings were connected.   

Buffalo police are asking for help from the public as their search continues for two missing teenagers. They say 14-year-old Istahil Ahmed was last seen on Franklin Street.  She is about 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs about 153 pounds.  She was last seen wearing khaki pants, a navy blue long-sleeve shirt and white sneakers. And 13-year-old Sincere Vines was last spotted on Bailey Avenue.  He is about 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs about 230 pounds. He was last seen wearing black pants, a black hoodie and black and tan Adidas sneakers.  Officials say there’s no connection between these two cases. They are asking anyone with information on the whereabouts of the teens to contact them immediately.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced Thursday that United Food and Commercial Workers Local One, with more than 19,000 members and their families across Upstate New York, will receive a $764 million pension-fix payout from the American Rescue Plan.  Employers like Tops Friendly Markets were victims of a pension system that collapsed after the 2008 economic crash. Without action, after a lifetime of hard work, many could not retire or would have paltry or zero pension benefits remaining, according to Schumer.

Governor Hochul has announced over 100-million-dollars in funding to help out schools across New York State. The money will be used to assist schools with addressing pandemic learning loss and offering additional mental health resources to students. The governor says the COVID-19 crisis had a devastating impact on kids and she believes this money will allow them to get back on a path towards success. Districts have until August 18th to request financial assistance.

In June Bills fans received a new license plate from the DMV and now Giants and Jets fans can get theirs.  The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles has released redesigned New York Jets and New York Giants license plates ahead of the 2023 NFL season.  Jets and Giants fans can visit the DMV website to order NFL plates for passenger and commercial vehicles.  The plates feature a background of helmets from the chosen team. 

A brand-new cannabis cultivation facility is currently under construction in Buffalo. The 68-thousand-square-foot building will be located in the Buffalo Lakeside Commerce Park. It’s going to feature manufacturing space, offices, and also 13 indoor grow-rooms. Officials say they are excited about how this facility is going to help expand the cannabis industry in the city. The hope is construction will be done sometime early next year.

From the Genesee County Sheriff: 47-year-old Duane Andrews of Niagara Falls was arrested in Batavia and charged with Criminal Contempt and Aggravated Family Offense. It’s alleged he struck another person on Park Road, in violation of an order of protection. Andrews will return to court at a later date. ALSO: 63-year-old Thomas Tacito of Batavia is charged with Arson for intentionally damaging property by fire. He was arrested and it’s alleged that he burned items belonging to the Relax Inn. Tacito was transported and held at the Genesee County Jail following his arraignment in CAP Court.

Fairmont Avenue, Hart Street, and Norris Avenue (between State and Bank Streets) will be getting paved today, which means they’ll be closed to through traffic until 5:00 this afternoon. Residents and businesses are asked not to park on the street during this time. Contact the Bureau of Maintenance and ask to speak to the Streets Supervisor or the Superintendent at 585-345-6400 opt. 1 if you have any questions. (This is weather dependent work and will be scheduled for tomorrow, if necessary.)

Payton Gendron in court (file photo)

Attorneys for the man who pulled the trigger in a mass shooting at a Tops store in Buffalo will be meeting with the U.S. Department of Justice soon. The lawyers for Payton Gendron will talk with DOJ officials in September as they attempt to spare their client from the death penalty. Gendron has already pleaded guilty to killing 10 people and injuring three others at the Jefferson Avenue supermarket in May of last year. He was sentenced to life in prison on state charges.

The New York State Department of Health has issued a warning about a recent uptick in the number of COVID-19 cases. The latest data from yesterday shows there’s been a 22% rise in hospitalizations statewide due to the illness compared with the previous week. Reported cases have also gone up 55% during the same time period. Doctors are asking anyone who has symptoms of the coronavirus such as fever, headache and breathing trouble should be tested immediately.

Mohamed Boukadida

The Erie County Sheriff’s Office says an anonymous tip played a role in helping law enforcement make a massive drug bust in Buffalo. Deputies executed a search warrant at a warehouse and uncovered roughly 70 pounds of marijuana, methamphetamine, and concentrated cannabis. The 45-year-old suspect, Mohamed Boukadida, has been arrested on felony charges. After being taken into custody, Boukadida was sent to the Erie County Jail.

Undated file photo of Puerto Rican Festival in Rochester (13WHAM)

Rochester’s Puerto Rican Festival is set to kick off at Innovative Field in the city later today. The event is happening through Saturday, and attendees will have the chance to try some delicious food, check out cultural events and even watch a parade. This is the longest-running ethnic celebration in all of Monroe County and organizers say kids 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, go to Prfestival.com.

Von Miller

Von Miller of the Buffalo Bills says his comeback from a serious knee injury is still on track. Yesterday, the star defensive player shared an Instagram story with a caption on it saying “I’m close.” Miller tore his ACL during Buffalo’s game against the Detroit Lions back on Thanksgiving Day. Miller has expressed optimism that he might be able to suit up early in the upcoming season instead of missing several weeks. The Bills begin their regular season September 11th against the New York Jets.

ELSEWHERE…

The start of the New York State Fair is under three weeks away, and today people will have the chance to get all-day ride passes for $20. The sale goes until 11:59 p.m. and wristbands will be good for use on any day during the fair. It’s important to note that only 20,000 of these wristbands will be sold, and they’ll be available online at NYSfair.NY.gov/midway. The fair begins on August 23rd and runs through September 4th.

File photo of Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Following additional construction, the Buffalo AKG Art Museum’s Jeffrey E. Gundlach Building is finally going to reopen to the public today. The building first reopened last month, but it was quickly closed down once again so work on curved sliding glass doors in the basement could be finished. The $195 million expansion at the museum, formerly known as the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, began in 2020. For information on events and to buy tickets, visit buffaloakg.org.

Leah Remini (File photo)

An actress and one-time Scientologist is suing the church. Former ‘King of Queens’ co-star Leah Remini sued the Church of Scientology yesterday. She claims the church has stalked, harassed, threatened and intimidated her going all the way back to 2006. She’s asking for a jury to award her damages for economic and psychological harm.

July was hotter for four in every five people on Earth than it would have been without the effects of climate change. That’s according to research from Climate Central. The nonprofit looked at the climate in July for over 4,700 cities around the world. It found that for over 80% of the world population, at least one day in the past month had a weather shift that the group calls not normal.

Cardi B (left) hit fan (right) with microphone

The microphone tossed by Cardi B at a fan during a recent Las Vegas show is hitting the auction block. Cardi was seen on video throwing the mic at a fan after liquid was thrown in her direction. Scott Fisher owns the production company that provided the microphone for the performance and he told TMZ the profits from the auction will go to two different charities. The mic retails for around $1,000 and is currently listed at over $90,000 on Ebay. Cardi has been listed as a suspect for battery because a woman who says she was hit with the mic reported the incident to police.

Unidentified retirees enjoying the beach

Florida is no longer the best state to retire in. A study by financial services company Bankrate named the Sunshine State the best place for retirees last year. However, the state didn’t even make it into the top five for 2023. Researchers compare the affordability, overall well-being, and quality of health, weather and crime among each state before making the list. The best places were Delaware, West Virginia, Missouri and Mississippi. Florida was able to secure the 8th spot.

Today is Thursday, August 3rd, the 215th day of the year.

August 3 in history…

Replica of The Santa Maria

…In 1492, Christopher Columbus set sail aboard the “Santa Maria.”

…In 1914, Germany declared war on France. The declaration started World War I. It became known as the “war to end all wars.”

The Beatles at The Cavern Club, Liverpool, England in 1961

…In 1963, the Beatles made their last appearance at the Cavern Club in Liverpool, England.

Paul McCartney and Wings

…In 1971, former Beatles member Paul McCartney formed a new group called Wings.

Air Traffic Controllers, PATCO strikers march at JFK Airport, August 3, 1981

…In 1981, 13 thousand air traffic controllers in the U.S. went on strike, defying an order by President Reagan. The strike went on, causing cancellations of nearly 15 thousand flights. Reagan fired those who defied his order after 48 hours of striking.

Mary Lou Retton wins the gold in 1984

…In 1984, Olympic U.S. gymnast Mary Lou Retton scored a perfect 10.00, accomplishing what no American woman gymnast ever had. She captured the gold medal in all-around gymnastics. She had to score a perfect 10.00 because her Russian competitor had just landed a 9.9.

Statue of Liberty pedestal on the first day it reopened to the public

…In 2004, the Statue of Liberty Pedestal reopened for the first time after 9/11 attacks.