Local News

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.

Rochester police are investigating after a teen was shot on the city’s southwest side Wednesday night.  Officers responded to the 300 block of Flint Street around 7 p.m. for a ShotSpotter activation.  While officers were arriving at the scene, the victim, an 18-year-old man from Rochester, walked into Strong Memorial Hospital, where he’s listed in critical but stable condition, according to police.  No arrests have been made so far.

The strike is on at Rochester General Hospital.  This week’s bargaining negotiations between Rochester Regional Health and the Rochester Union of Nurses and Allied Professionals have come to a close. RRH expressed its disappointment over the lack of progress, resulting in a scheduled nurses’ strike beginning today at 7 a.m.  In a letter to the community earlier this week, RRH emphasized that patients with procedures, tests or exams at RGH should plan on attending their scheduled appointments. Additionally, CEO Chip Davis said anyone requiring the emergency department will have access during the strike.  The hospital network has hired hundreds of temporary nurses to the tune of roughly 4 million dollars during the strike.  Nurses say that while that money could have gone to meeting their demands, this strike has actually been going on for some time.  They cite many nurses leaving for other jobs as a sort of slow strike.  The strike is set to run through Saturday at 7pm.

Fairmont Ave, Hart St, and Norris Ave are getting repaved starting this morning and going through 5pm.  Residents and businesses are asked not to park on the street during this time.  You may have to take another route to avoid delays during the paving.  This is weather-dependent work and will be scheduled for the next business day if necessary.

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.

Do you have what it takes to dodge a ball?  GO ART! Is hosting a dodgeball tournament at David M McCarthy Ice Arena on Saturday August 12th at 5pm.  They are looking for teams of 6 to 8 people to sign up to showcase their throwing and dodging skills.  It costs 200 dollars to sign up a team.  The event is sponsored by the David M. McCarthy Ice Arena and Eli Fish Brewing Co.  There will be prizes for best team uniforms and best team name.  There will also be a rap battle and poetry slam.

The farmers market in Corfu is joining 17 thousand other communities across America to invite people to spend the night out August 7th from 4 to 7pm.  National Night Out is sponsored by NATW, ADT, Starbucks, L.E.A.D. and co-sponsored locally by the Corfu Farmers Market.  National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes strong police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live and work.  The Night Out is a night for block parties, front porch sitting, cookouts and festivals.  It is a night for communities to go outside and say they are neighbors and aren’t afraid to show it.  For more information you can contact Market Manager, Katy Hobbs at corfufarmersmarket@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/corfufarmersmarket for more information.

Heather Holbrook

From the City of Batavia Police blotter: 38-year-old Heather Holbrook has been arrested on a bench warrant. She was initially arrested last May for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell (a class C felony). Holbrook was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on her own recognizance. However, she allegedly failed to appear at her next court date in mid-July resulting in the issuing of another warrant. On July 18th, Holbrook was located and arrested. She was arraigned in CAP Court, where she was again released. Holbrook is due back in court at a later date.

Bleyke Culver

27-year-old Bleyke Culver of Batavia has been arrested on a warrant. It’s alleged that on June 23rd, he violated an order of protection by entering the residence of the protected party. When located by police in Austin Park, Culver attempted to flee but was quickly taken into custody. At the time of his arrest, he was allegedly with the protected party, in violation of the order of protection. Culver was charged with an additional count of Criminal Contempt. He was arraigned in CAP Court and remanded to custody of the Genesee County Jail.

Zakara Jackson

19-year-old Zakara Jackson of Batavia was arrested on two warrants. The first charges her with bail jumping. It’s alleged that Jackson had been previously charged with a separate count of Bail Jumping. She was arraigned and released on that charge; but then failed to appear back in court. The second warrant charges her with Bail Jumping, in relation to a charge of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Jackson was arraigned on that charge and released, but then once again failed to appear in court. She was arraigned on the warrants and released under the supervision of Genesee Justice. Jackson is due back in court on September 13th.

34-year-old Kimberly Blue was arrested for Bail Jumping. She had previously been arrested and charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Blue was arraigned on that charge and released but allegedly failed to appear at the scheduled court time. On July 20th, Blue was arrested at the Genesee County Jail, where she was incarcerated on an unrelated matter. She was arraigned in CAP Court and is due back in Batavia City Court at a later date. ALSO: 57-year-old Michelle Preston of Batavia has been arrested for Petit Larceny. It’s alleged she used another person’s debit card information without their permission to make several purchases online. Preston was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court next Monday. ALSO: 23-year-old Tyler Mills of Batavia was arrested for Harassment. He was arrested after officers responded to a disturbance on Washington Avenue. It’s alleged that Mills shoved the victim and threw an item at her. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released. Mills is due back in Batavia City Court at a later date.

Senator George Borello

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: Families who would rather their kids not be in public school are asking that their kids be included in public school sports. State Senator George Borello is co-sponsoring a bill that would allow home school students to participate in interscholastic sports. He cites that those families still pay school taxes and should be able to take part in sports programs. Borello said that 30 other states allow this and New York should get onboard. In New York State, the Department of Education says in order to enroll in an ‘interscholastic sport,’ students must be enrolled in a public school.

File photo of unidentified nurses

Time is running out for officials with Rochester Regional Health and a union that represents nurses to reach an agreement on a brand-new contract. If a deal is not in place tomorrow, nurses are planning to go on strike for two days. A final round of talks between both sides is expected to today. If there is a strike, hundreds of temporary nurses will be brought in so patient care doesn’t suffer.

Senator Chuck Schumer (file photo)

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has introduced a bill that he says would sanction China and Mexico for their involvement in the current fentanyl epidemic. The New York Democrat revealed details of the measure during a visit to Albion yesterday. Schumer says the “Fend Off Fentanyl Act” would give the president emergency powers that can be used to prevent the flow of fentanyl into the United States from foreign countries. International fentanyl trafficking would also be declared a national emergency.

The Town of Tonawanda is joining a lawsuit that has been filed against automakers Kia and Hyundai. Legal action has been taken by other communities such as Buffalo and Rochester due to the high number of vehicles stolen in the last several months. Kia and Hyundai are accused of not making sure proper parts are installed to stop these thefts. Most of the vehicles that have been taken were built between the 2011 and 2021 model years.

Lt. Larry Muhammad Jr.

A lieutenant with the Buffalo Police Department has been charged for his alleged role in a domestic violence incident. Investigators say 37-year-old Larry Muhammad Jr. was speeding and driving recklessly earlier this week, which put the life of his female passenger at risk. He is also accused of taking away the woman’s phone when she attempted to dial 911 and firing a shot from a handgun. Muhammad was off-duty at the time of the incident and is suspended without pay.

ELSEWHERE…

President Biden and Former President Trump

A new poll shows President Biden and former President Trump tied in 2024 general election rematch. The New York Times/Siena College poll shows both candidates receiving 43-percent of support from registered voters if the election were held today. Both candidates, however, continue to have high disapproval numbers.

Striking writers and Hollywood studios will start talking again this week. The writers’ union, the Writers Guild of America, confirmed Tuesday night that it will resume talks with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers about negotiations on Friday. That confirmation came hours after Deadline reported that both the writers and the studios had a new sense of guarded optimism as the strike heads toward its 100th day next week.

Marc Gilpin

Marc Gilpin, who played the younger son of Roy Scheider’s Police Chief Martin Brody in Jaws 2, has died. He was 56. Gilpin died Saturday in Dallas after a long battle with glioblastoma, his older sister, Frasier actress Peri Gilpin, announced. After answering a casting call, Gilpin beat out hundreds of other boys to get hired as Sean Brody in the 1978 sequel to the blockbuster Jaws (1975), directed by Steven Spielberg. He was 11 when the movie reached theaters.

File photo of the midway at the Niagara County Fair

The Niagara County fair is set to officially kick off at the fairgrounds that are located in Lockport today. The fair runs until Sunday and will feature great food, live music, shows, contests, rides and more. Admission is 10-dollars per person today through Saturday, and children six and under get in for free. On Sunday, admission will be either 20 dollars per carload or seven bucks per person. To check out the complete schedule of what’s going to be happening, visit cceniagaracounty.org.

Please play responsibly.

The Mega Millions jackpot continues to soar after Tuesday night’s drawing resulted in no grand prizewinner. That’s been the case for three and a half months now. The lack of a lucky ticket holder means the next drawing on Friday will be worth and estimated $1.25 billion. Please play responsibly.

The unmanned runaway boat

A deputy in Florida is responsible for stopping a runaway boat over the weekend. Authorities were working with the Coast Guard to wrangle an unmanned vessel that was traveling more than 40 miles per hour on Sunday, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. The operator had fallen off the boat, causing it to continue on course without a driver. One of the deputy’s was able to jump onto the vessel from his watercraft to take control of it. The sheriff’s office posted a video of the rescue on social media, joking that Deputy Constant does his own stunts. The operator of the runaway boat was eventually rescued by a Good Samaritan.

Bed Bath & Beyond is back – sort of. Overstock is now Bed Bath & Beyond after buying its intellectual property for $21.5 million, after it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. When you search for either online you’ll be taken to the same landing page, where both companies’ logos will be displayed for the next few months until the re-branding is complete.

Today is Wednesday, August 2nd, the 214th day of the year.

August 2 in history…

An example of an early street corner mail receptacle

…In 1858, the first mailboxes in the United States were installed along the streets of Boston and New York City.

Albert Einstein and the letter he wrote to FDR.

…In 1939, Albert Einstein penned a letter to President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The letter was about the atom bomb, urging the U.S. to start researching atomic weaponry.

Promotion photo with Bob Hope and Lucille Ball, Sorrowful Jones (1949)

…In 1949, Comedian Bob Hope ended up in Hollywood’s Presbyterian Hospital as a result of been bucked off by his fake steed while working on a Hollywood film set. Hope was straddling a barrel rocked by Lucille Ball when it rolled over and sent him flying. He was under doctor’s orders to stay quiet in a hospital bed for several days, since the accident knocked him unconscious.

Aretha Franklin in 1962

…In 1962, singer Aretha Franklin made her TV debut on “American Bandstand.”

A Batavia man has been charged with second degree assault after he allegedly attacked EMTs while riding in an ambulance on Saturday morning.  50 year old JAmes Tillery of Farwell Dr was being transported from Bethany when he began to attack the medic onboard.  It’s alleged that he caused physical injury to the medic.  Tillery has three prior arrests reported locally.  In April 2022, he was charged with criminal mischief for allegedly damaging property at a restaurant on East Main Street. In 2020, he was charged with criminal tampering for allegedly mowing a profane word into the grass of city property.  And in 2018, he was charged with harassment for allegedly striking another person.  The status of those cases is not known at this time.

Residents in Batavia are worried about the rising crime rates.  Most noticeably the shootings over the last couple of months.  One family that caught possible thieves attempting to break into their home on their security doorbell have packed up and moved away.  Batavia Police Department Chief Heubusch said that they are trying to partner with sheriffs and state police to increase patrols.  He shared that a special unit from his police force will be out patrolling the areas they’ve noticed these gun issues in.  City Manager Rachel Tabelski warned residents to take basic security measures when going out and when securing their property.  Both said that residents should report anything suspicious to the police.

Senator Chuck Schumer has introduced a bill that he says would sanction China and Mexico for their involvement in the current fentanyl epidemic. The New York Democrat revealed details of the measure during a visit to Albion yesterday. Schumer says the “Fend Off Fentanyl Act” would give the president emergency powers that can be used to prevent the flow of fentanyl into the United States from foreign countries. International fentanyl trafficking would also be declared a national emergency.

The Town of Tonawanda is joining a lawsuit that has been filed against automakers Kia and Hyundai. Legal action has been taken by other communities such as Buffalo and Rochester due to the high number of vehicles stolen in the last several months. Kia and Hyundai are accused of not making sure proper parts are installed to stop these thefts. Most of the vehicles that have been taken were built between the 2011 and 2021 model years.

Families who would rather their kids not be in public school are asking that their kids be included in public school sports.  State Senator George Borello is co-sponsoring a bill that would allow home school students to participate in interscholastic sports.  He cites that home school families still pay school taxes and should be able to take part in sports programs.  Borello said that 30 other states allow this and New York should get onboard.  In New York State, the Department of Education says in order to enroll in an ‘interscholastic sport,’ students must be enrolled in a public school.

The Arts council of Wyoming County will be hosting a gallery of lush landscapes starting August 4th and running through September.  The works of Cary Moscato will be on display in the Main Gallery.  Moscato’s vast list of accomplishments and experiences, including her 1989 MS in Art Education from the State University College at Buffalo, 21 years of teaching art, and multiple exhibitions and memberships, have served her in building an impressive portfolio.  Her art is portrayed in watercolors, acrylics, and pastels.  There will be a reception on August 4th at 6:30 for the opening of the exhibit.

PRESS RELEASE:

$9 MILLION COMMUNITY SOLAR PROJECT TO BE CONSIDERED AT GCEDC BOARD MEETING

Solar projects have proposed investments generating over $127.4 million in municipal revenues since 2019

BATAVIA, NY – The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) board of directors will consider an initial resolution for Oak Orchard Solar 3 LLC’s community solar farm project in the town of Batavia. The $9 million investment would include the installation of ground-mounted solar panels in order to generate up to 5 megawatts of power.

Under the proposed project agreement, Oak Orchard Solar 3 LLC’s project would generate $4,000/megawatts (AC) + a 2% annual escalator of revenues with Genesee County and Elba Central School District. Including a host agreement with the Town of Batavia, this project is estimated to generate a $319,088 increase in property-tax type revenues to host municipalities.

Since 2019, the GCEDC has reviewed over $1 billion of solar energy projects. These projects have proposed 860 megawatts of renewable energy and property tax-type revenues of $127.4 million to municipalities.

If Oak Orchard Solar 3 LLC’s project application is accepted, a public hearing will be scheduled on the proposed project agreement in the town of Batavia.

The August 3, 2023, GCEDC board meeting will be held at 3 p.m. at the MedTech Center’s Innovation Zone, 99 MedTech Drive, Batavia. Meeting materials and links to a live stream/on-demand recording of the meeting is available at www.gcedc.com.

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About the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC): The GCEDC is the primary economic development agency in Genesee County, NY. The GCEDC’s mission is to facilitate local economic growth and development which fosters investment and job creation for the benefit of our residents and children. We do this by offering financial assistance, real estate solutions, workforce development programming and placemaking options in order to build back local and regional manufacturing and by supporting the continued growth and success of our local businesses all across Genesee County.

Genesee County has been recognized for 19 consecutive years by Site Selection Magazine for having among the strongest business growth in the U.S. among peer micropolitan communities. Led by projects at the Western New York Science & Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park and the Genesee Valley Agribusiness Park, Genesee County has welcomed over $2 billion of capital investment since 2003.

From the Batavia City Police blotter: 50-year-old James Tillery of Batavia has been arrested and charged with assault. It’s alleged he physically injured an Emergency Medical Technician while being transported by ambulance to a hospital for medical treatment. Tillery is being held at the Genesee County jail pending arraignment. ALSO: 60-year-old RuLee Allyn of Batavia has been charged with six counts of owning an unlicensed dog and failure to provide sustenance to animals. When police were called for a report of numerous dogs running loose, they located five dogs and contained them and also determined they belonged to Allyn. A sixth dog was located in the residence. Each animal was allegedly covered in feces and not being properly cared for. Allyn was issued an appearance ticket for a later date.

Richard Hanes

A state appeals court has unanimously upheld the 2019 conviction of 41-year-old Richard Hanes of Holley who bludgeoned 47-year-old Raymond Morgan to death in a boarding house at 111 Liberty Street in July 2018. Hanes’ appeal focused on what his attorney claims was a verdict that was against the evidence. However, the court ruled the testimony of several witnesses along with evidence presented at trial indicated Hanes was in the area shortly before the incident and that DNA evidence at the scene pointed to his guilt. Hanes also contended that he was denied effective counsel, which the court rejected. Hanes is imprisoned at Lakeview Correctional Facility and will not be eligible for parole until December 2043.

This Thursday, August 3rd, Fairmont Avenue, Hart Street, and Norris Avenue (between State and Bank Streets) will be getting paved. This project is expected to be between the hours of 7 AM and 5 PM. 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. Please note that this is weather dependent work and will be scheduled for the next business day if necessary.

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: A recent criminal complaint states that since January, in Western New York, there have been multiple reports of mail carriers being robbed, sometimes at gunpoint, for their keys to get into collection boxes. The postal inspector said he was notified that someone used a key to open a mailbox at Tonawanda Street in Buffalo on July 27th. Not long after, a customer service manager said that same person then rode to the Tops on Elmwood Avenue and took more mail. The inspector said that the individual used those keys to take greeting cards hoping they would have money in them. Police then arrested Eric Arroyo in connection to this theft. He was charged with criminal possession of stolen property. The inspector told reporters that there is not an increase in mail thefts in the area but the problem is a national issue. He also said that Rochester has it worse.

File photo of school bus aide accompanying a student on the bus in Buffalo.

An employment opportunity in Buffalo: Kids will be heading back to their classrooms in just a few weeks, and Buffalo Public Schools is still in need of bus aides. The district is holding a hiring event this Saturday from 9:00am until 1:00pm at the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts on Masten Avenue. Candidates are asked to bring proof of residency and documents such as a utility, phone, or cable bill, bank statement or vehicle registration. For more information, go to buffaloschools.org.

File photo of bear-shaped fentanyl

Governor Hochul has announced the launch of a new campaign that is aimed at stopping drug overdoses in the Empire State. This initiative is going to serve as a reminder to people about the dangers of fentanyl and tell them how to get help if they’re struggling with addiction. The state’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports will also partner with NEXT Distro to increase access to naloxone. Fentanyl is often mixed in with other drugs and can be 100 times more potent than heroin. (NEXT Distro is an online and mail-based harm reduction service designed to reduce opioid overdose death, prevent injection-related disease transmission, and improve the lives of people who use drugs.)

File photo of Office For the Aging on Bank Street

The Genesee County Office For the Aging is looking for community input on how Bank Street could be made a better area for walking, biking and driving by changing the landscaping, crosswalk placements, and overall mobility of the area. They will be having a pop-up demonstration between Main and Washington on August 18th from 10 to 2 with a rain date of August 21st.

Damar Hamlin during practice yesterday.

Damar Hamlin had his first day back in Buffalo Bills pads for practice at the Bills training camp at St John Fisher University on Monday. He said that he had been nervous about going back out after his heart attack last season but said “my strength is rooted in my faith and my faith is stronger than any fear.” Hamlin said he’s still processing thousands of emotions, and he’s not afraid to admit that. Monday was a huge step forward and a testament to Hamlin, the work he’s put in, and his medical team.

ELSEWHERE…

Paul Reubens in 2015

A former mayor of the town where actor Paul Reubens grew up, remembers him as a friend and someone who stood up for human rights. Fredd Atkins was Sarasota’s first Black mayor and remembers Reubens as one of the few white students who made friends across the color line. The death of the actor best known for playing Pee-wee Herman was announced Monday following his private battle with cancer. Reubens was 70 years old.

Clinical trials for long-COVID treatments are starting soon. It’s estimated as many as 23 million people in the U.S. have developed long Covid, with symptoms that include fatigue, brain fog, dizziness, and loss of taste or smell. They can last weeks, months or longer. The National Institutes of Health will begin enrolling patients soon.

For only the fifth time in the game’s history, the Mega Millions jackpot has surpassed the $1 billion mark. The top prize that’s available tonight is $1.5 billion after no one was lucky enough to win Friday’s drawing. The record Mega Millions jackpot of over $1.5 billion was claimed in October of 2018. The drawing will be streamed live at megamillions.com. Please play responsibly.

A Southern California man is facing charges for allegedly prank calling his local sheriff’s office thousands of times. Luke Dumas was arrested after San Bernardino County Sheriff’s officials said he called the sheriff’s office over 7,000 times in the span of four months earlier this year. Deputies say Dumas’ calls would always come from an unknown number and were harassing and annoying. They say the prank calls also kept staff from attending to actual emergency calls as quickly as they would like.

A federal judge in South Florida is putting an end to a multi-million dollar lawsuit against the Kraft Heinz Food Company. A Miami-Dade County woman filed the suit late last year claiming the company was misleading customers about how long it takes to prepare its Velveeta microwavable mac and cheese. The company was accused of violating federal law by saying the food takes 3-1/2 minutes to prepare, arguing it did not include the time it takes to remove the lid and add water. A Miami district judge tossed out the case last week saying the woman did not have enough standing to follow through with the $5 million class action lawsuit.

Cardi B preparing to throw her microphone

Police are investigating rapper Cardi B for battery after she threw a microphone at an audience member who threw a drink on her during a show. That’s according to a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department statement to the New York Post. Videos from the event show the 30-year-old rapper throwing the microphone toward the audience after a person splashes liquid from a cup at her. TMZ reports that before the incident happened, Cardi B and her DJ allegedly told the crowd to cool the singer down with water in the hot weather.

Today is Tuesday, August 1st, the 213th day of the year.

August 1 in history…

1931 advertisement for Shredded Wheat

…In 1893, Henry Perky and William Ford received a patent for shredded wheat.

…In 1936, the Summer Olympic games opened in Berlin. Adolf Hitler presided over the opening ceremony.

1941 model jeep

…In 1941, “Parade” magazine did a three-page feature on the United States Army’s newest gadget, the Jeep.

…In 1944, 13-year-old Anne Frank made the last entry in her famous diary. The young Jewish girl and her family were captured by Nazi troops three days later. They had been in hiding for two years.

…In 1971, the Concert for Bangladesh was held at New York’s Madison Square Garden. The show was recorded and sold as a multi-record set. The concert and the album raised more than eleven-million dollars for the starving people of Bangladesh.

The Buggles Video Killed the Radio Star – left keyboardist Geoff Downes and front lead singer Trevor Horn

…In 1981, the rock video cable channel MTV debuted. The first video shown was “Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles.

Another shooting involving people inside a car.  Buffalo police are investigating after three men were shot on the 100 block of Isabelle Street.  The shooting occurred around 11:30 p.m. on Sunday, the three men were shot while inside a vehicle and were transported by ambulance to ECMC.  Police said a 20-year-old man was pronounced dead at ECMC, a second 20-year-old man is in critical condition and a 19-year-old man is stable.

New York state has shut down a chain of seven unlicensed cannabis dispensaries that allegedly sold cannabis to underage customers.  David Tulley owns and operates eight shops under the “I’m Stuck” name across Wayne, Cayuga and Oswego counties. According to a release from Attorney General Letitia James’ office, Tulley’s stores have been selling cannabis without a license since at least early 2022.  Locations in Auburn, Aurelius, Lyons, Macedon, Pulaski and Williamson were among those shut down Monday. Tulley also has a shop in Seneca Falls.  Tulley is accused of ignoring repeated notices from the state’s Office of Cannabis Management to stop selling without a license.  Investigators reported observing store clerks selling cannabis products to underage customers on multiple occasions.  James said Tulley, his companies and the building owners could face millions of dollars in fines.

A recent criminal complaint states that since January, in Western New York, there have been multiple reports of mail carriers being robbed, sometimes at gunpoint, for their keys to get into collection boxes.  The postal inspector said he was notified that someone used a key to open a mailbox at Tonawanda St in Buffalo on July 27th. Not long after, a customer service manager said that same person then rode to the Tops on Elmwood Avenue and took more mail. The inspector said that person used those keys to take greeting cards hoping they would have money in them.  Police then arrested Eric Arroyo in connection to this theft. He was charged with criminal possession of stolen property.  The inspector told reporters that there is not an increase in mail thefts in the area but the problem is a national issue.  He also said that Rochester has it worse.

A teenager in Rochester faces charges following a shooting that injured another teenager earlier this month.  Police responded to the Willie W. Lightfoot R-Center on Flint Street for a report of a shooting July 21. Officers found a 17-year-old boy who they said was shot in the area of Jefferson Avenue and Nellis Park before going to the center for help.  Police said the victim sustained serious, life-altering injuries.  U.S. Marshals arrested the suspected shooter, also a 17-year-old boy, Friday. He’s charged with assault and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon. He also had an outstanding family court warrant. He was taken to the Monroe County Children’s Detention Center.

The Genesee County Office For the Aging is looking for community input on how Bank Street could be made a better area for walking, biking and driving by changing the landscaping, crosswalk placements, and overall mobility of the area.  They will be having a pop-up demonstration between Main and Washington on August 18th from 10 to 2 with a rain date of August 21st.  Artists from GO ART! will paint vibrant and attractive crosswalks, and Batavia Turf has contributed turf that will enhance the visual appeal of the space.  They hope that the public will come out and be a part of revitalizing this space.

Damar Hamlin had his first day back in Buffalo Bills pads for practice at the Bills training camp at St John Fisher University on Monday. He said that he had been nervous about going back out after his heart attack last season but said “my strength is rooted in my faith and my faith is stronger than any fear.”  Hamlin said he’s still processing thousands of emotions, and he’s not afraid to admit that.  Monday was a huge step forward and a testament to Hamlin, the work he’s put in, and his medical team.

Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch

City Manager Rachael Tabelski

An Open Letter to the Community from Police Chief Shawn Heubusch and City Manager Rachael Tabelski:

Three incidents of shots fired in the City of Batavia over the last few months is certainly not the norm here.  We want residents to know that the City of Batavia Police Department is taking a number of steps to protect our community.

We will be enhancing the current Neighborhood Enforcement Teams (NET) to respond to neighborhood issues in our efforts to get guns and drugs off the street and put criminals in jail.

The City will commit dedicated resources to this initiative including personnel and equipment.

We will partner with outside agencies such as the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, the State Police, along with other local, state and federal partners.

We also will be calling on the Governor’s Office to allocate resources to the City in response to the recent incidents of gun violence.

Individuals who illegally use guns will be apprehended and brought to justice.  If you commit a crime, especially with a gun, you will be caught, you will be arrested and you will be convicted.

Batavia is a small and tight knit community where neighbors look out for each other and support our police officers.

We would be remiss if we did not recognize the hard work and dedication of the men and women of the Batavia Police Department and who in these incidents not only put their lives on the line to protect and serve our community, but quickly apprehended the individuals responsible for these crimes.

We ask you to be vigilant and if you see anything suspicious to immediately call 911.

Our Police Department is here to protect and serve our community.  You are a vital partner in these efforts.

Sincerely,

Shawn Heubusch, Police Chief & Rachael Tabelski, City Manager

35-year-old Brian Raphael of Batavia has been arrested. He’s charged with petit larceny, following an investigation at Tractor Supply Company on East Main Road. Raphael allegedly concealed merchandise from the store and attempted to leave with items he did not pay for. He’s scheduled to appear in Town of Batavia Court in late August.

A police pursuit that started in the Byron area with the New York State Police ended with a standoff at a Batavia apartment complex. The chase happened yesterday afternoon; the driver proceeded toward 335 Bank Street and entered an apartment at Northside Meadows a little before 4:00pm. Batavia Police say the driver barricaded the door so law enforcement could not enter. A little before 6:00pm, police made entry by forcing the door open; the driver was taken into custody without incident and arrested. The car was towed and is in the possession of State Police. City Police are investigation how entry was made into an unoccupied apartment; state police are handling the pursuit portion of the investigation.

13WHAM file photo of Rochester General nurses on strike

Officials with Rochester Regional Health have revealed their plan to deal with a possible strike by nurses. Members of the Rochester Union of Nurses and Allied Professionals are currently planning to walk off the job starting on Thursday if a new contract isn’t approved. If that happens, Rochester Regional already has a deal in place to hire replacement nurses so patient care isn’t affected. Negotiations between the health system and nurses have been ongoing for months.

Regional drivers are still paying more to fill up their vehicles thanks to a surge in gas prices. According to Triple A today, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $3.76. The state average is $3.82. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.71. That’s up 12 cents from a week ago but 78 cents lower than it was one year ago today.

Summer is in full swing, and the New York State Department of Health is reminding people to keep themselves safe from dangerous UV rays. The agency says that anyone who spends time outdoors should wear sunscreen and make sure to reapply it after swimming or sweating. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to melanoma, which is the ninth most common type of cancer in New York. Folks should also have on sunglasses to protect their eyes and reduce the risk of cataracts.

Josh Allen has quick visit with Kim Pegula. (13WHAM photo)

For the first time since her cardiac arrest more than a year ago, Buffalo Bills co-owner Kim Pegula has made a stop at the team’s training camp. Pegula was at Saint John Fisher University yesterday, but didn’t appear in front of fans. Both head coach Sean McDermott and quarterback Josh Allen took time to go over and see her while she watched practice from inside an SUV that was parked near the field. Pegula and her husband Terry also own the Buffalo Sabres.

Unfortunately, the Batavia Muckdogs get to, and then lose the Playoffs, in one weekend. With a convincing win over Niagara Power on Saturday, in combination with a loss by Elmira, the Muckdogs clinched the Western Division in the regular season finale at Dwyer Stadium. Batavia won 9-2; this is the second consecutive Western Division crown for the Muckdogs. The Playoffs started and ended for the Muckdogs last night with the #1 seed ‘Dogs losing to the Auburn Doubledays, 4-2 ending their season.

ELSEWHERE…

Katie Ledecky

Olympic champion Katie Ledecky now holds more individual world titles than any other swimmer. Ledecky tied and broke Michael Phelps’ record over the weekend at the World Aquatic Championships in Japan. She claimed her 16th world title and passed Phelps on Saturday when she won the 800-meter freestyle. The 26-year-old Ledecky tied Phelps’ record last Tuesday with a win in the 1,500-meter freestyle.

“Can you hear me now?” “Yes, but I don’t need the can.”

Verizon customers with older phone plans could see their bill go up next month. The company says starting this week some older plans will be charged an additional $3 to $5 per mobile phone line every month. Unlimited plans that are currently available to new customers won’t get hit with the additional charge.

The Powerball jackpot continues to grow. Lottery officials say no one picked all six numbers in Saturday’s drawing. That means Monday night’s jackpot in the multi-state lottery game will be worth $74 million. As for Tuesday’s Mega Millions jackpot, that’s worth just over $1 billion. Please play responsibly.

David Eldar

An Australian man has been dubbed the scrabble world champion. David Eldar won ten-thousand-dollars and bragging rights after besting his opponent at the world scrabble championship in Las Vegas over the weekend. Over 132 players competed for the title over the course of the four-day event. Eldar played some unique words like “thrimsas” and “sosatie” [[ So-saw-tee ]] but ultimately his final word in the winning game was “women.”

Dralin Carswell with ‘Honey Boo Boo’, Alana Thompson

‘Honey Boo Boo’ in 2017

And for anyone who remembers (or even cares) the little girl once known as ‘Honey Boo Boo’ (Alana Thompson) is hitting two major milestones this fall: She’s starting college (Regis University in Denver) and moving in with her boyfriend (Dralin Carswell). She plans to study nursing and is living off campus for security reasons and because Dralin will be with her.

Today is Monday, July 31st, the 212th day of the year.

July 31 in history…

The U.S. Mint building in Philadelphia, 1911

…In 1792, the cornerstone of the United States Mint in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was put into place. It was the first building to be used solely as a U.S. Government building.

I’ll pass on this assignment…

…In 1928, Leo the lion roared for MGM Studios for the first time. Leo introduced MGM’s first talking picture, “White Shadows on the South Seas.”

Marilyn Bell in 1955

…In 1955, 17-year-old Marilyn Bell became the youngest person to swim the English Channel.

Jim Reeves

…In 1964, Country Music Hall-of-Famer Jim Reeves died in a plane crash near Nashville, Tennessee.

…In 1971, Apollo 15 astronauts David Scott and James Irwin became the first men to ride in a vehicle on the moon. The two men spent two hours traveling five miles on the moon’s surface in their lunar dune buggy.

Baseball fans protest the possibility of a strike, prior to players walking off the field.

…In 1981, the baseball player’s strike came to an end after seven weeks. 713 games were cancelled because of the strike.

Gary Coleman in 2005; he died May 28, 2010

…In 1998, “Diff’rent Strokes” star Gary Coleman turned himself in to police after allegedly punching a female fan who asked for his autograph.

OJ was granted parole during this courtroom appearance in 2017, after serving 9 years of a 33 year sentence.

…In 2013, former football star OJ Simpson was granted parole on convictions for kidnapping and armed robbery stemming from a hold up of two sports memorabilia dealers in 2007. However, he was ordered to remain behind bars on other charges.

And we have a winner!  After many people stopped by the Batavian’s booth at the Genesee County fair and 5 days of people making eagle drawings for the contest, 14 year old Colton Smith from West Virginia was chosen as drawing the best eagle.  Thursday evening Batavian publisher Howard Owens presented a white polished Harley Benton Big Tone Trem guitar with gold-colored hardware to the teen.  Owens says he hopes one day to see Smith rocking out on a stage sometime in the future.

Police are asking for help finding Lily Rodriguez, 25, last seen Monday around noon in the city of Rochester.  She was wearing black yoga pants and carrying a white leather backpack.  Rodriguez is 5’5″ and 160 lbs. She has brown hair with green streaks in the front. She also has her nose pierced on both sides and the word “ROTTEN” tattooed on her left jawline.  Anyone with information is asked to call 911.

The man charged with allegedly killing Rochester police officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz last year appeared in court Friday morning, in a room full of local law enforcement officers.  Kelvin Vickers, an alleged hitman who was brought in from out of state to help in a gang war, along with two other defendants, is also charged in the shooting deaths of two men in a triple shooting on North Clinton Avenue, just a day before Mazurkiewicz was shot and killed while doing surveillance on Bauman Street. His partner, Sino Seng, and a 15 year old girl who was in a nearby home, were also injured.  Vickers’ co-defendants, Deadrick Fulwiley and Raheim Robinson, are not being charged in the killing of Mazurkiewicz, but they’re both charged with multiple felonies, including murder, in the North Clinton triple shooting.  The attorneys for all three defendants have asked the judge to not consolidate the cases. A decision will be made next week.  Vickers’ trial is set for September 18.

Buffalo police are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred on the 1400 block of Kensington Avenue Friday morning.  Police said around 12:30 a.m. two women were shot while inside a vehicle and they were both transported to ECMC.  One victim, a 23-year-old woman, was later pronounced dead at ECMC. The second victim, a 20-year-old woman, was described as stable.

The Muckdogs split a double header against the Newark Pilots on Thursday night.  The first game went 2 and 0 for the Batavia team but the second was lost 4 to 2.  The opening round of playoffs for the Muckdogs is Sunday at 4:05.  The Muckdogs are currently second in the league with 26 wins and 16 losses.  First are the Elmira Pioneers with 27 wins and 16 losses. 

Overdose Awareness Day set for August 30 at Austin Park

The Genesee-Orleans-Wyoming Opioid Task Force, in conjunction with the National Institute of Health’s HEAL (Helping to End Addiction Long-Term) Initiative, will be commemorating Overdose Awareness Day next month to raise awareness of the dangers of opioids and to remember the lives of those who have succumbed to an overdose.

The annual event is scheduled for 4-7 p.m. on Aug. 30 at Austin Park in Batavia.

Residents are invited to take part in the family-friendly activities – which include face painting and live music courtesy of Groove — and enjoy free pizza and refreshments.

A Narcan (naloxone) training is on the agenda and local health and human services agency representatives will be on hand to provide information on recovery resources, medications for opioid use disorder and the benefits of staying on medication treatment for people in recovery.

Guest speakers include:

— John Bennett, chief executive officer at Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, who will provide updates on substance use treatment programs and lead a moment of silence in memory of those who have died.

— Dawn Stone, a peer advocate from Spectrum Health in Wyoming County, who will discuss the stigma surrounding substance use disorder and steps that are being taken to remove unhealthy perceptions.

— Cheryl Netter, a community “hope coach,” who will share a story of hope and healing.

— Scott Davis, a certified peer recovery advocate for the Rochester Regional Health system, who will share how medication has helped him in his recovery.

— Paul Pettit, public health director for Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments, who will share local data and the initiatives that the health department and local partners are implementing to address overdoses.

— Nikki Lang of Batavia, who lost a loved one to an overdose.

Additionally, Lynda Battaglia, director of Genesee County Mental Health & Community Services, and Danielle Figura, director of Community Services at Orleans County Department of Mental Health, are expected to talk about opioid use disorder as it relates to mental health.

Participants will be offered the opportunity to leave a note on the task force’s memory board for a deceased loved one.

Registration is recommended, but not required. To register, go to www.gowopioidtaskforce.org/events.

Tmario Ayala

Bryson Gentile

Three people have been arrested in Batavia after a report of shots fired in the area of Washington and Willow Street around 11:20 Wednesday night. Officers responded to the scene and while there, multiple shots were heard coming from the area of Dellinger Avenue. Using Batavia Police Department pole cameras, detectives were able to make a description of an involved vehicle. At 1:11 early yesterday morning, four males were located walking in the area of Chase Park and North Spruce Streets. Their vehicle was located and evidence of weapons discharge was found on the men and the vehicle. One was released and 20-year-old Tmario Ayala, 18-year-old Bryson Gentile, and a 17-year-old male, all of Batavia, were arrested and charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon and Reckless Endangerment. No injuries were reported. Here’s a link to the comprehensive story, as reported by our news partner, The Batavian:  https://www.thebatavian.com/howard-owens/three-arrests-made-in-alleged-gunfire-incident-in-the-city-of-batavia/635873

Dangerous heat is expected to blanket most of the Western New York region today and officials say people should take precautions to stay safe from high temperatures. A heat advisory will be in place until 8:00pm in Genesee, Monroe, Ontario, Wayne and Cayuga counties. Residents should make sure they’re properly hydrated and plan to spend less time doing outdoor activities. People should also check in on elderly neighbors to ensure they’re OK. The latest forecast can be found at NOAA.gov.

Ronald Sponaugle

A Lockport man is now facing a long prison sentence after admitting to being involved in the sexual abuse of children. The Niagara County DA’s office says 53-year-old Ronald Sponaugle pleaded guilty to abusing the young victims at different times. He was arrested as the result of an investigation that was conducted by the Lockport Police Department. Sponaugle could be ordered to spend up to 25 years behind bars when he’s sentenced in September.

Brett Marrapese (released photo)

A Rochester Firefighter is on trial for sending child porn and using a fire department computer to do it. Brett Marrapese is accused of uploading child pornography using an IP address associated with the Rochester Fire Department. He’s charged with multiple counts of production, distribution, receipt and possession of child pornography. He’s since been suspended from the Rochester Fire Department without pay. The FBI accuses Marrapese of communicating with at least 110 minors and more than 1,500 images or videos of child pornography were found on Marrapese’s cell phone. In June, the FBI said it was still working to identify and locate some of the children depicted in those pictures. Marrapese is being held in the Monroe County Jail pending a detention hearing.

Aftermath of fire (released photo)

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: The Buffalo Fire department is dealing with losing one of its own vehicles in a fire on Wednesday. Buffalo fire officials say the Buffalo Fire Department Repair Shop suffered extensive damage Wednesday evening when a fire broke out. Buffalo fire responded to 39 Seventh Street at around 5:30 p.m. The damage is estimated at $750,000, with severe damage to a reserve pumper as well. Officials say the fire is under investigation.

The vandalism by a 13-year-old at MLK, Jr Park Casino

A 13-year-old has been arrested for their alleged role in recent vandalism that happened at the Martin Luther King Junior Park casino in Buffalo. Mayor Byron Brown announced yesterday the teen had been taken into custody and that police are working to track down additional suspects. The teen is charged with burglary and also criminal mischief. The damage to the park is estimated to be about $50,000.

Wow, Fred found a full-service station.

Gas prices are at an eight-month high. Triple A reports the national average price for a gallon of regular gas today is $3.73. That’s the highest the average has hit since November.  The state average is $3.79. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.70; that’s 10 cents more than it was a week go but 81 cents lower than the price a year ago today.

Nyheim Hines following a 96 yard run on January 8, 2023

Fans of the Buffalo Bills have been making donations to the Muscular Dystrophy Association in a show of support to injured running back Nyheim Hines. He suffered a knee injury while on a jet ski a few days ago and is expected to miss the 2023 season. Hines has been a national spokesperson for MDA since 2021, and used the “My Cause, My Cleats” program to raise awareness. In a statement, the MDA said it’s wishing Hines a full recovery and called Bills fans some of the most generous in the NFL.

ELSEWHERE…

Eagles co-founder Randy Meisner is dead at the age of 77.

Randy Meisner of The Eagles is dead at the age of 77. The band announced the news on Thursday, revealing he passed away the previous night due to complications from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In their announcement, they remembered Meisner as “an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band.”

Incandescent light bulbs

Americans will only be able to buy LED lights from retailers as a ban on incandescent light bulbs begins next week. The ban officially starts on Tuesday. It’ll only be illegal for stores to sell the light bulbs and companies to manufacture them, but it won’t be illegal to own. The Department of Energy said LED lights provide more light using less energy and last a lot longer than incandescent light bulbs. Any manufacturer who violate the ban may face a max penalty of $542 per illegal light bulb.

Dylan Mulvaney

Bud Light maker Anheuser Busch is laying off hundreds after the recent boycott over its partnership with a transgender influencer. Earlier this year, the beer lost its spot as the top seller in the U.S. after transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney appeared on the can. Now the company is laying off nearly 2% of its workforce in the United States.

Rex Heuermann and Asa Ellerup

The estranged wife of accused Gilgo Beach murderer Rex Heuermann is returning to their home New York home. Asa Ellerup, who filed for divorce from Heuermann, can be seen yelling “Don’t talk to me” to reporters as she and her son sit on the home’s front porch, along with their dog. Their daughter was also at the home, along with what appeared to be a detective.

July 2023: The hottest month ever recorded on Earth. (File photo of an unidentified man)

This month is on pace to become the hottest month on record. That’s according to new data from the Earth observation unit of the European Union’s space program and the World Meteorological Organization. The organizations said the first three weeks of July have already set the record for the hottest three-week period. July 6th set the mark for the hottest day on record. This comes after June broke the record for the hottest June ever. Much of the U.S. has been hit by heat waves along Asia and Europe.

The Mega Millions jackpot just keeps growing and is continuing to head towards the $1 billion mark. The top prize up for grabs in this evening’s drawing will be at least $910 million after no one matched all six winning numbers on Tuesday. Mega Millions has surpassed $1 billion four times in its history, including back in January. The drawing will be streamed live online at megamillions.com. Please play responsibly. Consider this: Suppose you had $1 billion. You could spend $5,000 a day for more than 500 years before you would run out of money. Breaking it down even farther, it means you would have to spend over $100,000 every day for the next 25 years in order to spend $1 billion. In area: One billion $1 bills would cover a four-square-mile area or the equivalent of 2,555 acres. In length: If you laid the $1 bills end to end, the trail would measure 96,900 miles. How much would $1 billion dollars weigh? One billion $1 bills would weigh around 10 tons. If you want your winnings in quarters, it will weigh 22,680 tons. If you took the quarters and put them into quart jars, you’d have 435,337,917 jars. Melt those quarters down, and the molten metal would equal 3,419,136 quarts – that would fill an Olympic size swimming pool one-and-a-half times. How tall: Take one billion $1 bills and put them in a stack (we’ll wait) after about 30 years of stacking, your pile would measure 358,510 feet or 67.9 miles high. How fast can you go through that money? If you were really dedicated, and could spend $20 per second, you could spend $1 billion dollars in 578 days (1 year, 214 days). You’re gonna need some caffeine, but you can afford it, so go for it.

The Jonas Brothers

The Jonas Brothers are going on a brand-new world tour, and one of the stops is going to be right here in Western New York. The group will take the stage at KeyBank Center in Buffalo on November 27th. The Jonas Brothers have sold millions of albums, and are best known for hits including “Burnin’ Up” and “Year 3000.” Tickets will go on sale to the general public at 10:00am on August 4th.

Today is Friday, July 28th, the 209th day of the year.

July 28 in history…

…In 1866, the metric system was authorized for the standardization of weights and measures throughout the United States.

…In 1868, the 14th amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified. It granted citizenship to “all persons born or naturalized in the United States,” which included people of African heritage who had just been freed from slavery after the Civil War.

Joe Borden

…In 1875, the first nine-inning Major League Baseball no hitter was pitched by Joe Borden.

Telephone operators ready to sing your telegram in 1933

…In 1933, the first singing telegram was delivered. It was a birthday greeting sent by a fan to Hollywood singing star Rudy Vallee.

Following the B-52 crash into the Empire State Building, July 28, 1945

…In 1945, 14 people died when a B-25 bomber crashed into the side of New York’s Empire State Building.

A frame from Disney’s Alice In Wonderland, 1951

…In 1951, Disney’s film “Alice in Wonderland” was released in New York.

Food fight! John Belushi in ‘Animal House’ (1978).

…In 1978, “National Lampoon’s Animal House” opened in movie theaters around the country. The movie went on to become the highest grossing comedy of its time and launched “Saturday Night Live” cast member John Belushi into super stardom.

Kaufman and Lawler with Letterman. Yes, it was staged. (NBC Photo)

…In 1982, comedian Andy Kaufman and professional wrestler Jerry Lawler brawled during a live taping of NBC’s “Late Night With David Letterman.” The shouting match, which began with Kaufman’s taunts of the wrestler, escalated into violence as Lawler knocked Kaufman to the floor with a blow to the head. Kaufman retaliated by throwing a cup of coffee on the wrestler. The brawl was later confirmed as a setup.

Kyle ‘Bugha’ Giersdorf wins $3 million at age 16

…In 2019, a 16-year-old won $3 million at the first Fortnite World Cup in New York. His prize was the largest won in e-sports history.

3 people have been arrested after a report of shots fired in the area of Washington and Willow Street around 11:20 Thursday night.  Officers responded to the scene and located evidence of a weapon discharge at the intersection.  While officers were canvassing the area, multiple shots were heard coming from the area of Dellinger Avenue, and officers immediately responded. Officers again located evidence of a discharge of a weapon on Dellinger Avenue.  Using Batavia Police Department pole cameras, detectives were able to make a description of an involved vehicle.  At 1:11 AM, four males were located walking in the area of Chase Park and North Spruce Streets. Their vehicle was located and evidence of weapons discharge was found on the men and the vehicle.  One was released and 20 year old Tmario Ayala, 18 year old Bryson Gentile, and a 17-year-old male, all of Batavia, were arrested and charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree and Reckless Endangerment in the First Degree.  The investigation did conclude that a residence had been struck by gunfire on Dellinger Avenue.  No one was injured in either shooting incident.

A police pursuit ended on the University of Rochester campus Thursday evening.  State Police tried to stop a vehicle on Exchange St., according to the Campus Safety department.  Troopers said the driver did not comply and sped off.  During the pursuit, state police said the passenger exited the vehicle and tried to run off before being taken into custody.  The driver sped on Wilson Boulevard toward Library Road and troopers were successfully able to deploy spike strips.  Troopers said the chase ended near the Genesee River when the driver jumped in and tried to swim away, before turning around and swimming back to shore. He was then taken into custody.  State Police say the vehicle the two suspects were in was reported stolen outside of Syracuse in Auburn, N.Y.

A Rochester Firefighter is on trial for sending child porn and using a fire department computer to do it.  Brett Marrapese is accused of uploading child pornography using an IP address associated with the Rochester Fire Department. He’s charged with multiple counts of production, distribution, receipt and possession of child pornography.  He’s since been suspended from the Rochester Fire Department without pay.  The FBI accuses Marrapese of communicating with at least 110 minors.  According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, more than 1,500 images or videos of child pornography were found on Marrapese’s cell phone. In June, the FBI said it was still working to identify and locate some of the children depicted in those pictures.  Marrapese is being held in the Monroe County Jail pending a detention hearing.

The Buffalo Fire department is dealing with losing one of its own vehicles in a fire on Wednesday.  Buffalo fire officials say the Buffalo Fire Department Repair Shop suffered extensive damage Wednesday evening when a fire broke out.  Buffalo fire responded to 39 Seventh Street at around 5:30 p.m.  The damage is estimated at $750,000, with severe damage to a reserve pumper as well.  Officials say the fire is under investigation.

A plan to build a pipeline through a wildlife refuge and use eminent domain to take private property and then dump wastewater into a waterway that runs into an Indian reservation is drawing protest in Alabama.  The plan is for a treated waste water pipeline to run from the STAMP facilities up rt 63 and then dump into Oak Orchard Creek.  Residents in the town of Alabama came out by the dozens Thursday to oppose a 9-mile commercial sewage pipeline that would cut through both residents’ properties and the protected wildlife refuge.  The current plan is to run the sewage line through three residential properties as well as the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge.  STAMP representatives say the water is treated and safe.  Public comment on the project will continue to be accepted until August 1.

From a press release by Steve Hawley’s Office: Assemblyman Steve Hawley bashed Gov. Hochul’s recent plan to provide tax-payer funded health care to sex workers across the state. This new initiative, known as the “Sex Worker Health Pilot Program,” will allow the state Department of Health to set aside approximately $1 million in public funds toward primary, behavioral, and gynecological care, as well as dental care for prostitutes. In a heavy-handed move, the governor’s office authorized this program without the approval of the Legislature. Hawley is frustrated that this administration is encouraging and promoting an industry that has done so much harm to the State of New York.

A heat advisory is in effect tomorrow from noon until 8:00pm.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for tomorrow, from noon until 8:00pm for Genesee, Orleans and Livingston Counties. Heat index values are expected to reach the upper 90’s. The significantly elevated temperatures and high humidity could cause heat illnesses to occur. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

Governor Kathy Hochul

Governor Hochul is announcing what she calls a major step forward in the revitalization of northeast Rochester. Hochul was on hand today for the completion of a $49 million mixed-use affordable housing development that creates 164 sustainable homes. She says the newly constructed Edna Craven Estates also features ground floor commercial space and a new community center at the intersection of Clifford and Joseph Avenues. The development was constructed on land which previously housed 23 vacant and blighted structures acquired by the city and demolished in advance of construction. The development is named after longtime Rochester advocate Edna Craven, known for her service as president of the Alphonse Bernard Street Block Club and an active member of her church, Antioch Missionary Baptist.

File photo of Senator Gillibrand

New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has announced legislation she says is aimed at curbing the country’s ghost gun epidemic. The 3D Printed Gun Safety Act calls for a ban on the online distribution of blueprints used for the 3D printing of firearms. Ghost guns are weapons that are made at home and because they have no serial number, they’re untraceable. Data shows New York State Police seized 85% more ghost guns last year than they did in 2021.

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: A judge has decided that the lawsuit against Genesee County will be allowed to be fought here rather than in New York City. In early June, New York City filed a lawsuit against 30 upstate municipalities, including Genesee County, seeking to invalidate their executive orders barring undocumented immigrants from entering their locales. The lawsuit claimed that those emergency orders obstructed New York City’s efforts to relocate migrants in “a manner that is explicitly permitted by law and required by a statewide emergency.” Genesee County and other counties sued to have the case be decided outside New York County and won. Some counties had the case dropped. Genesee will have their day in court, but closer to home.

Stephen Termini was attacked in Ireland

If you are traveling to Ireland the US embassy has a warning for you. This comes after Stephen Termini, a 57-year-old man from Buffalo, was brutally beaten by a group of teenagers just outside a garda station in Dublin and is in the hospital in critical condition. The warning says to be aware of your environment, don’t go out alone in the street past dark, don’t wear expensive or expensive looking jewelry or place cash or cell phones in outside pockets. A gofundme for the man who was attacked has surpassed $100,000 and the family of the man is able to go to his side thanks to an intervention by the office of Congressman Brian Higgins who helped them get passports quickly. (Additional information: Stephen Termini’s son said his father is in critical condition from the beating and is in a coma, and he is at risk of losing his eye. “He might lose an eye. We’re not really sure. There haven’t been too many updates. Everything that I’ve posted online about — he was in a coma. He’s stable, at the very least,” described Michael Rizzuto. “What we were told was, he was my minding his own business, and three kids just randomly assaulted them, and I’ve done my own digging and you know, research, and seems like it’s a common thing for tourists over there to just get attacked. I guess where he was down in that area is not the safest part. and I’ve had a lot of people reach out to me confirming that.” Termini had saved up for the trip to Dublin. His sons say their dad regularly traveled to Ireland, a place he wanted to live, and was attacked just a day after he arrived in Dublin.)

Vandalism at the MLK, Jr. Park Casino

Buffalo police are still trying to identify the suspects who were involved in vandalism at the Martin Luther King Junior Park Casino a few weeks ago. Video shows a group of several people outside the casino on the evening of July 12th before roughly 50-thousand-dollars worth of damage was done inside the building. The casino is closed to the public because it’s undergoing construction. Anyone with information can contact police at 716-847-2255

Last night’s Muckdogs game against Niagara Power ended in the fifth inning. Both teams thought the game would continue at a later time but league officials ruled the game over, giving the Power (21-17) a 3-2 win. The ‘Dogs at 25-25 trail the Elmira Pioneers 26-15 with just 3 games left in the season. Tonight at Dwyer it’s a double-header against the Newark Pilots; game time is set for 5:00. Saturday night, the Muckdogs host the Niagara Power. The players take the field at 6:35.

Damar Hamlin became emotional following the reception he received from fans at Bills practice

Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills is expected to be a full participant in the team’s training camp at Saint John Fisher University. Hamlin went into cardiac arrest during a game between the Bills and Cincinnati Bengals in January. Yesterday, head coach Sean McDermott said the 25-year-old Hamlin has been cleared to take part in regular activities and that Hamlin’s teammates are behind him 100%. Training camp for the Bills runs through August 10th.

ELSEWHERE…

David Fravor (ABC News photo)

The mysterious object seen by Pilot David Fravor

A former intelligence officer turned whistleblower says Americans are being kept in the dark about UFOs. In a testimony before Congress Wednesday, David Grusch said the U.S. government is covering up a program that collects and reverse engineers UFOs and has found “nonhuman biologics” at crash sites. He said he interviewed officials with direct knowledge of the program. Grusch also accused the military of misappropriating funds to shield the operations from Congress. Meanwhile, ex-Navy Pilot Ryan Graves told lawmakers he and dozens of other pilots have observed UFOs carrying out “unexplainable maneuvers.” Veteran Navy Pilot David Fravor described his encounter with a tic-tac shaped object off the coast of California, which he says was far superior than any technology the U.S. military has today or will develop in the next decade.

Fed Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell

The Federal Reserve is no longer forecasting a U.S. recession this year. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell told reporters today that the Fed changed its forecast “given the resiliency of the economy recently.” Powell made the comments after the central bank raised interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point Wednesday.

Ryan Speakman has been fired.

An Ohio K-9 officer is fired after his police dog attacked an unarmed Black truck driver who had his hands up after a highway chase. Officials said former Circleville officer Ryan Speakman’s termination is “effective immediately.” A use of force review board investigated the incident and submitted the report to city officials.

The New York State Fair is under a month away and tickets to the popular event in Syracuse are going on sale today. Admission is $6, but there’s no cost for kids 12 and under and people 65 and older. A Frequent Fairgoer pass is also going to be made available for just $20, however, it can only be purchased online by going to nysfair.ny.gov. This year’s fair starts on August 23rd and wraps up on September 4th.

Senator McConnell ‘freezes’ during news conference.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell says he’s fine after being escorted away from a Republican leadership news conference Wednesday. The Kentucky senator appeared to freeze after he had stopped talking during the news conference. Some of his colleagues then asked McConnell if he was okay before Senator John Barrasso held him by the arm and walked him away from the podium.

Today is Thursday, July 27th, the 208th day of the year.

July 27 in history…

Orville Wright (right, front) discusses flight plan with Lt. Frank Lahm in 1909.

…In 1909, Orville Wright set a record for the longest airplane flight while testing the U.S. Army’s first airplane. He kept the plane aloft for one hour and 12 minutes.

Artist Ken Harris draws the famous rabbit.

Bugs Bunny and Elmer Fudd in “A Wild Hare” (1940)

…In 1940, Bugs Bunny made his official debut in a Warner Brothers animated cartoon film short called, “A Wild Hare.” Photos include artist Ken Harris in mid-drawing as well as a still shot from Bugs’ debut.

Richard Nixon

…In 1960, Vice President Nixon was nominated for president at the Republican national convention in Chicago.

Nixon boards helicopter on his last day in office following impeachment. (August 9, 1974)

…In 1974, the House Judiciary Committee voted in favor of recommending President Nixon’s impeachment for obstruction of justice in the Watergate case.

Yoko Ono, John Lennon and their immigration attorney, Michael Wildes (right), leave the Immigration and Naturalization Service in New York City on March 16, 1972.

…In 1976, the United States government approved John Lennon’s request for permanent residency in the country. The former Beatle had battled with government officials over the issue for several years.

Zsa Zsa appears to be enjoying her arrest a little too much.

…In 1990, Zsa Zsa Gabor began serving three days in jail for slapping a police officer.

Bob Hope circa early 2000’s

…In 2003, entertainment legend Bob Hope died on this date at the age of 100. For more than a half century Bob Hope was a permanent fixture in the entertainment industry. He is renowned for his work in television, film, radio and books — not to mention this invaluable contributions to the U.S. Armed Forces in providing entertainment to troops overseas in every war from World War II to the Gulf War. Hope died of pneumonia at his home in Tolouca Lake, California with his family at his side.

Judge lawyer gavel work in office with balance in law firm concept

A judge has decided that the lawsuit against Genesee County will be allowed to be fought here rather than in New York City.  In early June, New York City filed a lawsuit against some 30 upstate municipalities, including Genesee County, seeking to invalidate their executive orders barring undocumented immigrants from entering their locales.  The lawsuit claimed that those emergency orders obstructed New York City’s efforts to relocate migrants in “a manner that is explicitly permitted by law and required by a statewide emergency.”  Genesee County and other counties sued to have the case be decided outside New York County and won.  Some counties had the case dropped. Genesee will have to have their day in court, but closer to home.

One man faces grand larceny charges and another man is wanted after they allegedly stole more than $100,000 worth of drones and accessories from a business in Henrietta.  Deputies responded to the business on Methodist Hill Drive for a report of a burglary on June 11th.  Several law enforcement agencies teamed up to execute search warrants at two locations this Tuesday, arresting one suspect and recovering several of the stolen items.  47 year old Christopher Dejonge of East Rochester, was arraigned on two counts and released without bail.  Police are still looking for 43 year old Darius Smith of Henrietta. 

Buffalo police are still trying to identify the suspects who were involved in vandalism at the Martin Luther King Junior Park Casino a few weeks ago. Video shows a group of several people outside the casino on the evening of July 12th before roughly 50-thousand-dollars worth of damage was done inside the building. The casino is closed to the public because it’s undergoing construction. 

If you are traveling to Ireland the US embassy has a warning for you.  This comes after a 57 year old man from Buffalo was brutally beaten by a group of teenagers just outside a garda station in Dublin and is in the hospital in critical condition.  The warning says to be aware of your environment, don’t go out alone in the street past dark, don’t wear expensive or expensive looking jewelry or place cash or cell phones in outside pockets.  A gofundme for the man who was attacked has surpassed 100 thousand dollars and the family of the man is able to go to his side thanks to an intervention by the office of Congressman Brian Higgins who helped them get passports quickly.

The 37th Annual Western New York Antique Truck Show is August 5th and 6th at the Alexander Steam Show Grounds.  The grounds will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both days.   The show features over 150 trucks, tractors, construction equipment, and a flea market. There is Free Admission and Parking. Saturday events include an antique tractor pull at 10 a.m. and a slow truck race at 2 p.m.  There will be a truck parade Sunday at 1 p.m.  Kids get a chance to win a wooden truck every hour. The sponsor for the event is Camp Good Days

Le Roy Ambulance Service has announced its latest fundraiser. A search is underway looking for 12 dogs to be featured in a 2024 Dog Calendar. Owners may enter their dogs in the contest for a $5 entry fee. Entries will be accepted through noon on August 11.  There will be a live drawing on VIP K9 Facebook page at 6 p.m. on the 11th which will determine the 12 lucky winners. Winners will be asked to submit a photo of their dog or you can ask to have one taken.  100% of the proceeds from contest entry fees and calendar sale proceeds will benefit the Le Roy Ambulance Service.

Ronald DiPasquale (13WHAM Photo)

A retired Greece Police Department officer has been ordered to spend some time in prison after admitting to having child porn. Yesterday, a judge sentenced 57-year-old Raymond DiPasquale to 15 months behind bars. Prosecutors say DiPasquale was found to have hundreds of disturbing images on devices that he owned. Once he is released from custody, DiPasquale will be under post-release supervision for five years.

Damage at Cazenovia Park (Released Photos)

Buffalo police say they have made an arrest in connection with recent vandalism incidents at Cazenovia Park. Investigators say it was a 13-year-old boy who caused thousands of dollars worth of damage at the park. The Department of Public Works commissioner says buildings at the park are now going to be closed earlier to try and prevent any future crime. The teen is facing a felony charge.

Photo is a dramatization only; this dog was not harmed and is safe

The Division of Consumer Protection is offering tips to help protect kids and animals from heat stroke in hot cars. Officials say the best suggestion is to never leave a child or animal alone in a vehicle during hot weather, even if the windows are rolled down. Also, if you spot a child or animal in a hot car that appears to be in distress, dial 911 immediately. Since 1998, 942 children nationwide have died due to Pediatric Vehicular Heatstroke. Last year, 56 animals passed away from heat-related issues.

Meliora Hall at the University of Rochester

The University of Rochester is going to be offering free credit monitoring in the aftermath of a recent cyber attack. The school’s president says the sophisticated attack back in June was carried out by foreign criminals. Personal information was accessed, and the breach happened due to a software weakness in a product provided by a third-party company. Everyone eligible for credit monitoring will be notified by a letter.

As reported by Tom Tharp this morning: Small businesses will be getting a bill in the mail from the State very soon if they haven’t already. The bill for an “Interest Assessment Surcharge” is a new annual fee that the State of NY created last year to try to recoup some of the spending on the unemployment insurance costs during COVID shutdowns. The state owes the federal government $6.5 billion. The National Federation of Independent Business is calling on Governor Kathy Hochul to use federal pandemic relief funds to pay off the debt. A New York State Comptroller audit in 2022 found that the state lost $11 billion from unemployment insurance fraud, even after receiving repeated warnings that the system was susceptible to fraud.

Aiden Walden

Aiden’s family reacts to his drowning

A Lackawanna teenager has been identified as the victim of a drowning at Woodlawn State Park. According to State Police, 16-year-old Aiden Walden entered the water with a friend on Monday, but was unable to keep his head above the surface. Beachgoers helped remove Walden from the water but he was later pronounced dead at South Buffalo Mercy Hospital. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help his family with funeral expenses.

February 2022

The Buffalo Bills will be kicking off a journey today that they hope ends in the franchise winning its first-ever Super Bowl. The Bills are set to start training camp on the campus of Saint John Fisher University. Fans who do not already have tickets to see the team up close are out of luck because all of those tickets have been claimed. The Bills begin the regular season on Monday, September 11th when they visit Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets.

ELSEWHERE…

Scammers are cashing in on “Barbie” mania. Cyber criminals have been taking advantage of the hype to launch a wave of online scams to deceive consumers. Software security firm McAfee claims to have documented 100 new instances of malware with Barbie-related filenames in the last three weeks alone. Most of the scam attempts involved setting up fake Barbie websites that advertise free tickets but instead pull up links that hijack personal info with spyware. To avoid getting scammed, McAfee advises Barbie fans to stick with reliable retailers and streamers and only buy tickets from a reputable theater chain or app.

File photo of unidentified UPS worker making a delivery.

UPS and Teamsters are avoiding a strike after reaching a tentative agreement on a new labor contract. A strike by UPS workers would have been the largest in U.S. history. Ratification of the new five-year deal could take about three weeks. UPS CEO Carol Tome called it a “win-win” agreement for employees and customers. The union represents more than 300-thousand workers at the package carrier.

David Grusch

Congress will hold a much-anticipated hearing on UFOs Wednesday. Former U.S. intelligence official David Grusch will testify before the House Oversight Committee following his recent claims the government recovered technology of “non-human origin.” He’ll be joined by former Navy pilots who have reported multiple encounters unidentified aerial phenomena. Tennessee Republican Tim Burchett accused the federal government of hiding information on UFOs from Americans and Congress, and said Wednesday’s hearing would focus on transparency. Lawmakers in both chambers in Congress have ramped up efforts for greater disclosures from the Pentagon. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has pushed legislation to require the release of more information on UFOs.

No.

Skittles is coming out with a new flavor this summer. In honor of National Mustard Day on August 5th, mustard-flavored Skittles will be making their debut. The new flavor is in collaboration with French’s yellow mustard. Fans will get to taste the new flavor at French’s “Mustard Mobile” that will be making stops in Atlanta, Washington D.C. and New York City next week.

Mick Jagger (File photo)

Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Mick Jagger turns 80 today. One of the founding members of the Rolling Stones, Jagger released his first solo album titled “She’s the Boss” back in 1985. He’s collaborated with a host of A-listers over the course of his career, including the likes of David Bowie, Tina Turner, Carly Simon and Jerry Lee Lewis.

Please play responsibly.

The Mega Millions jackpot keeps growing with no grand prizewinner in Tuesday night’s drawing. The game’s top prize has now grown to at least $910 million ahead of Friday’s drawing. The lump sum cash option on that is just over $464 million. The last time someone hit the jackpot was back in April. Please play responsibly.

The CDC says COVID hospitalizations have risen by more than ten-percent across the country. Their latest report shows over 7,100 COVID-19 patients were admitted in the week of July 15th, up from 6,400 the week before. It’s the largest percent increase in COVID hospitalizations since December, though infection rates in the U.S. are still near historic lows.

Today is Wednesday, July 26th, the 207th day of the year.

July 26 in history…

Horse drawn mail wagon in 1910

…In 1775, the Second Continental Congress of the United States established the postal system.

Babe Ruth (right) in the last known photo taken of him. July 28, 1948; he was in the hospital. He died at age 53.

…In 1948, Babe Ruth attended the premiere of “The Babe Ruth Story” in New York City. It was the last time he was seen in public. In his final years, Ruth made many public appearances, especially in support of American efforts in World War II. In 1946, he became ill with nasopharyngeal cancer and died from the disease two years later. Ruth remains a major figure in American culture. He died August 16, 1948.

Prince

…In 1984, the film, “Purple Rain” starring Prince premiered in Hollywood.

Phil Reubens brings a whole new meaning to ‘Pee Wee’ in 1991.

…In 1991, Pee Wee Herman actor Paul Reubens was arrested for exposing himself twice during an adult movie in a Florida theater.

Andrea Yates pictured during her second trial

…In 2006, a Texas jury found confessed child killer Andrea Yates not guilty by reason of insanity following a second trial. Yates was retried after a 2002 conviction was overturned on appeal because of flawed testimony by the prosecution’s star witness. The 42-year-old had confessed to drowning her children. She was ordered to a state mental hospital.

Small businesses will be getting a bill in the mail from the State very soon if they haven’t already.  The bill for “Interest Assessment Surcharge” is a new annual fee that the State of NY created last year to try to recoup some of the spending on the unemployment insurance costs during COVID shutdowns.  The state owes the federal government 6.5 Billion dollars and decided that small businesses were the way to get the money back.  The National Federation of Independent Business released a statement Monday calling on Governor Kathy Hochul to use federal pandemic relief funds to pay off the debt.  A New York State Comptroller audit in 2022 found that the state lost $11 billion from unemployment insurance fraud, even after receiving repeated warnings that the system was susceptible to fraud.

Rochester Police arrested a Level 3 sex offender for the fatal stabbing of a woman on Whitney Street last week.  30 year old Kevin Dukes Jr. is accused of stabbing 38 year old Constance Henry multiple times at a home on Whitney Street Friday evening.  Police said Dukes was at the home of Henry’s friend, a woman who had an active order of protection against him when they got into an altercation. Henry allegedly came to the woman’s defense, when Dukes stabbed her.  According to the felony complaint, Dukes stabbed Henry with a knife in the chest and neck, moved her body into a bedroom and stabbed her multiple times in the back. A roommate discovered Henry the next day.  Members of U.S. Marshals task force located Dukes on Monday and took him into custody. He’s charged with second-degree murder in Henry’s death and first-degree criminal contempt for the incident involving the other woman.

Buffalo police say they have made an arrest in connection with recent vandalism incidents at Cazenovia Park. Investigators say it was a 13-year-old boy who caused thousands of dollars worth of damage at the park. The Department of Public Works commissioner says buildings at the park are now going to be closed earlier to try and prevent any future crime. The teen is facing a felony charge.

The Division of Consumer Protection is offering tips to help protect kids and animals from heat stroke in hot cars. Officials say the best suggestion is to never leave a child or animal alone in a vehicle during hot weather, even if the windows are rolled down. Also, if you spot a child or animal in a hot car that appears to be in distress, dial 911 immediately. Since 1998, 942 children nationwide have died due to Pediatric Vehicular Heatstroke. Last year, 56 animals passed away from heat-related issues.

Well that’s one way to avoid a parking ticket.  The Erie County District Attorney’s Office announced that 51-year-old Peter P. Christopher of Buffalo was arraigned Tuesday in Buffalo City Court on 91 counts of fourth-degree grand larceny and 91 counts of fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.  The district attorney’s office said between May 1 and May 19 Christopher allegedly stole 91 city parking meters from various locations in Downtown Buffalo. The meters are valued at around $1,000 each. He was given an appearance ticket to be arraigned on July 6 and a bench warrant was issued after he failed to appear.  Christopher is also facing other charges in connection to allegedly intentionally causing damage to a vehicle while attempting to remove and steal the exhaust system on July 25. The incident occurred at an auto parts store on Clinton Street and New Babcock Street.  According to the district attorney’s office, Christopher has outstanding warrants from Cheektowaga and has two additional pending criminal cases in Buffalo City Court.

The Buffalo Bills will be kicking off a journey today that they hope ends in the franchise winning its first-ever Super Bowl. The Bills are set to start training camp on the campus of Saint John Fisher University. Fans who do not already have tickets to see the team up close are out of luck because all of those tickets have been claimed. The Bills begin the regular season on Monday, September 11th when they visit Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets.

Stacy Moss

FROM BATAVIA POLICE: On Monday, July 24, 2023 at approximately 9:36 a.m. officers from the City of Batavia Police Department were dispatched to a robbery that had just occurred at the Key Bank located at 69 Main Street. It was reported that a black male entered the bank and passed the teller a note demanding money. There was no weapon threatened or displayed at the time. The male made off with an undetermined amount of money and left on a bicycle. Officers from the City of Batavia Police Department along with assistance from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office checked the area for the suspect and were initially unable to locate him. Detectives from the City Police worked quickly to obtain an identification of the individual involved using the Monroe County Crime Analysis Center’s facial recognition software. The image was shared with the public and officers began checking the individuals last known addresses. While gathering further information the Department received information that the suspect was hiding inside a residence on South Spruce Street. Officers responded and were able to take the suspect into custody without incident. It was determined that the suspect acted alone and was the only individual arrested. The following individual was arrested and charged with the listed crimes; Stacy R. Moss, age 53, of Rochester, was charged with Robbery 3rd and Grand Larceny 4th. Moss is currently under supervision by the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (NYS Parole) for robbery.  He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail to appear at a later date. The City of Batavia Police Department would like to recognize and thank the following for their assistance during this investigation; The Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, the Monroe County Crime Analysis Center and the public for the tips that were submitted.

Stacy Moss

Batavia Police have arrested 53-year-old Stacy Moss of Rochester. He’s charged with robbery and grand larceny in connection to yesterday’s robbery at Key Bank. He’s currently under supervision of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. Moss was arraigned in City Court and remanded to Genesee County jail to appear at a later date.

Jamonte Murrell

19-year-old Jamonte Murrell of Batavia has been arrested for assault following an investigation into a disturbance. It’s alleged that Murrell cut another person with a knife during a physical altercation. Murrell was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on his own recognizance. He’s due back in court at a later date.

Michael Torres

39-year-old Michael Torres of Batavia was arrested for criminal possession of a controlled substance and obstructing governmental administration. Torres was riding his bicycle when police, knowing that Torres had a warrant from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, attempted to stop him. He crashed his bicycle into a Batavia Police vehicle and then attempted to flee on foot but was quickly taken into custody. Torres was allegedly found to be in possession of multiple bags of a narcotic and a large sum of cash. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released; he’s due back in court at a later date.

58-year-old Michelle L Misiak of LeRoy has been arrested on a bench warrant, from Batavia City Court. Misiak was initially charged with Petit Larceny in September 2022, for allegedly stealing from Aldi in Batavia. The warrant was issued on 3/10/2023, after she allegedly failed to appear in court. On July 12th, Misiak was located by the Village of Leroy Police and turned over to the Batavia Police. She was additionally charged with Bail Jumping 3rd and arraigned in Batavia City Court. She was held on bail, and remanded to the custody of the Genesee County Jail.

Cassandra Elmore

On 7/14/2023, Cassandra L Elmore (age 31) of Batavia was arrested on two bench warrants, from Batavia City Court. The first case is the result of a traffic stop on 8/30/2022, where Elmore was charged with two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th, Obstructing Governmental Administration 2nd, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle 3rd, Operating without Inspection Certificate, Insufficient Tail Lamps, two counts of Criminal Use of Drug Paraphernalia 2nd, Failure to Change Address and Depositing Refuse on the Highway. Elmore was issued appearance tickets and released. She allegedly failed to appear in court and a warrant was issued on 9/8/2022. She was arrested on that warrant on 9/10/2022. During that arrest, Elmore allegedly fought with a Batavia Police Officer and was additionally charged with Obstructing Governmental Administration. Warrants were issued in both cases on 1/23/2023, after Elmore allegedly failed to appear in court again. She was arrested on 2/2/2023. Warrants were again issued on 2/21/2023, after she failed to appear in court. On 7/14/2023, Elmore was located at a residence on River St and arrested. She was additionally charged with two counts of Bail Jumping 3rd, in relation to each warrant. She was arraigned and remanded to the custody of the Genesee County Jail. She is due back in court on 7/25/2023.

30-year-old Richard Demmer of Batavia has been arrested and charged with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance. It’s alleged he stole merchandise from the East Pembroke Crosby’s store, and at the time was in possession of a controlled substance. Demmer was issued an appearance ticket for Pembroke Court to answer the charges.

Greg Johnson

A Buffalo Public School principal remains on paid administrative leave after being accused of assault and sexual abuse. A lawsuit has been filed against the Board Of Education, the Doctor George E. Blackman School of Excellence, and also its principal, Greg Johnson. The lawsuit claims that Johnson abused a student on several occasions between November 2022 and May of this year. In a statement, the district said it takes these allegations seriously but will have no further comment. (Released photo)

An unidentified rabid dog (file photo)

The New York State Department of Health is urging Empire State residents to protect themselves against rabies. Rabies is considered a deadly disease and people can get infected if they’re bitten by an animal that has the illness. Officials say the best thing to do is to stay away from animals like raccoons, skunks, and foxes, and make sure pets are up to date on their rabies vaccinations. Anyone who is exposed to rabies should get medical treatment immediately.

The University of Rochester Medical Center and the American Red Cross are teaming up to teach people a life-saving technique. A new mobile kiosk is going to be making the rounds in the area and showing folks how to do hands-only CPR. Data shows in the region, only 32% of people who suffer cardiac arrest at home receive CPR before first responders arrive, which is ten-percent below the national average. There is no cost to take part in this training. (File photo)

The per-gallon price of regular gas has remained consistent for another week. According to Triple A today, the national average cost is $3.64. The state average is $3.72. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.60 per gallon; that’s up a penny from yesterday but down 92 cents from a year ago today.

Nyheim Hines

A jet ski accident will keep one Buffalo Bill off the field this year. Running back Nyheim Hines is expected to miss the entire 2023 season because of a knee injury. Hines was reportedly sitting on a jet ski when he was struck by another rider. Hines hurt his ACL and is likely going to have surgery in the next few days. Hines came to the Bills last season in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts and returned two kickoffs for touchdowns during his time on the field. He was expected to serve as the team’s primary returner this season.

ELSEWHERE…

Rebranding of Twitter now extending to TikTok

TikTok users can now make posts using text on the popular app. The social media platform is now rolling out the feature that will allow creators to share things like lyrics, stories and recipes. The new addition to TikTok comes after Meta launched its Threads app earlier this month to compete with Twitter. The rollout is also happening as Twitter re-brands itself to X as owner Elon Musk attempts to create an all-in-one app. Last year, TikTok added support for images after it started out as a short-form video app.

The Federal Reserve will meet this week with another interest rate hike widely expected. Last month policymakers pressed pause on rate hikes for the first time in 15 months. The Central Bank will meet Tuesday and Wednesday in Washington, DC with a rate decision coming after the second day. Officials have been aiming to bring inflation down to two-percent, but it remains at three%.

No need to hide behind curtains anymore when the IRS rings your doorbell.

IRS agents will no longer show up at people’s homes and businesses unannounced. The agency announced Monday that it’s ending the practice and will now send letters to schedule meetings. IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel said showing up unannounced has created stress for taxpayers already wary of possible scams and for IRS agents who don’t know what to expect when showing up.

Today is Tuesday, July 25th, the 206th day of the year.

July 25 in history…

From 1946, the first appearance of Lewis and Martin together.

…In 1946, Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin performed together for the first time. Over the next ten years, the duo made 17 films together.

Baby Louise in 1978 and at age 40.

…In 1978, the world’s first test-tube baby was born in England. Baby Louise was born to Lesley and Gilbert Brown.

Rock Hudson poolside in November 1984

…In 1985, a spokesperson for Hollywood screen legend Rock Hudson confirmed that the actor was suffering from AIDS.

Roseanne Barr “sings” the national anthem.

…In 1990, Roseanne Barr’s ear-piercing rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner” at the opening of a doubleheader at San Diego’s Jack Murphy Stadium set off a firestorm of controversy.

Bill Maher

…In 1993, “Politically Incorrect” made its debut on Comedy Central with Bill Maher as host. The show ended in June of 2002.

Autumn Jackson

…In 1997, a federal jury in New York convicted Autumn Jackson of extortion. The young woman who claimed to be Bill Cosby’s out-of-wedlock daughter, was found guilty of trying to extort $40 million from the entertainer.

East stage at Woodstock ’99, Rome New York

…In 1999, the three-day Woodstock ’99 music festival came to a fiery end as rowdy fans set fires and began looting the site in Rome, New York.

Before and after

…In 2018, President Trump’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was vandalized with a pickax.

The Buffalo Police Department is investigating the harassment of a female worker and vandalism at Cazenovia Park over the weekend.  According to the Mayor’s office, between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Friday unknown individuals harassed a female worker and broke glass bottles, broke a mirror in the park’s restroom, tore a sink from the wall, threw trash cans into the road and ripped plants from the ground.  The vandalism continued on Sunday when, according to the Mayor’s office, around 6 p.m. vandals smashed two exterior glass windows on the park’s casino, kicked in its retaining walls, and threw garbage around the park. Damage is estimated at $5,000.  The Olmsted Parks Conservancy said due to vandalism and safety concerns, the restroom building at Cazenovia Park will be open for limited hours and there will be a portable restroom available to visitors during full park hours.

Erie County is facing a lawsuit following an altercation between corrections officers and an inmate at Erie County Correctional Facility.  In February 2022, Nathaniel Oyoyo was subdued by officers after they say he refused to be fingerprinted and became combative.  Body-camera footage appears to show Officer Daniel Piwowarczyk kicking toward the head of Oyoyo. Piwowarczyk claims he kicked the inmate in the shoulder, according to a sheriff’s office internal report.  However, internal investigators wrote the video suggests that the officer’s foot does contact Oyoyo’s head.  Of nearly a dozen officers present, only one reported Piwowarczyk striking Oyoyo in a “Use of Force” report. Officer Naegely wrote that he observed a black boot come into contact with Oyoyo’s face. He later submitted a second report, omitting that statement.  Oyoyo, then nineteen years old, battles mental health challenges. He’s now serving his sentence on a burglary and robbery charge at Washington Correctional Facility. He claims to have suffered hearing damage in the altercation.  Oyoyo is now suing Erie County. A judge granted his request for a claim against the county last week — seeking over five millions dollars.

A Buffalo Public School principal remains on paid administrative leave after being accused of assault and sexual abuse. A lawsuit has been filed against the Board Of Education, the Doctor George E. Blackman School of Excellence, and also its principal, Greg Johnson. The lawsuit claims that Johnson abused a student on several occasions between November 2022 and May of this year. In a statement, the district said it takes these allegations seriously but will have no further comment.

The 3 day Christian Concert series has taken over Six Flags Darien Lake Amusement Park the beginning of this week.  Starting Monday Kingdom Bound saw 3 stages set up in the park, Christian music piped over the loudspeakers in place of the park’s usual musical accompaniment, and Christian college and camp groups from New York and other states crowding into the park.  Headliners at the main stage Monday were Matthew West and We Are Messengers.  Tuesday will bring Anne Wilson and We the Kingdom and Wednesday will cap off the half week with Christian Superstars Skillet and Newsboys.  Local groups like Thrive Worship and the Brothers McClurg perform daily at the worship tent and speakers preach between bands. Kingdom Bound is an annual event and the days of Kingdom Bound are usually the most crowded days at the park during the summer.

Gas prices remain steady in Batavia even with a rise in state and national prices.  It is currently 3.59 for a gallon of regular gasoline in the Batavia area which is the same as it was last week and down a nickel from a month ago.  The state average is 3.70 which is up 3 cents from a week ago.  The national average is also up slightly at 3.60 which is 4 cents higher than a week ago.  

A jet ski accident will keep one Buffalo Bill off the field this year. Running Back Nyheim Hines is expected to miss the entire 2023 season because of a knee injury.  Hines was reportedly sitting on a jet ski when he was struck by another rider. Hines hurt his ACL and is likely going to have surgery in the next few days. Hines came to the Bills last season in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts and returned two kickoffs for touchdowns during his time on the field. He was expected to serve as the team’s primary returner this season.

***BATAVIA POLICE HAVE APPRENDED THE SUSPECT***   Here is the information released earlier by police regarding the incident: On July 24th, 2023 around 9:35 AM, a robbery occurred at the Key Bank on Main St in Batavia.  The suspect is a balding black male wearing a black T-Shirt, gray shorts, black socks, and no shoes.  The suspect passed a note to the teller demanding cash.  He arrived and left on a black colored bicycle last seen heading West on Main Street.

FROM THE GENESEE COUNTY SHERIFF:  36-year-old Daniel Torok, Jr. of Rochester has been arrested following an incident on West Main Street. He’s charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance. Torok was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court on August 8th.  ALSO:  31-year-old Joseph Martino of Batavia was arrested at the Genesee County Jail for attempted assault. This followed an incident late Saturday afternoon. Martino was issued appearance tickets and released back into the custody of the Jail. He’s due to appear in Batavia City Court on August 9th.  ALSO: 26-year-old Joseph Hampton of LeRoy was arrested and charged with harassment. It’s alleged he slapped and pushed his former girlfriend. Hampton was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and arraignment in CAP Court. An order of protection was issued and he is scheduled to appear in LeRoy Town Court on August 1st.

Darius Pridgen says the accusations did not happen

Buffalo Common Council President Darius Pridgen claims he has spoken with the woman who filed a sexual abuse lawsuit against him — and that she says those accusations never happened. In an interview with News 4, Pridgen says she was never a member of the True Bethel Baptist Church — where he is the senior pastor — and that if he had met her, it was casual. The suit states the plaintiff — a woman — was 45 years old in 2020 when the alleged abuse occurred. The suit accuses Pridgen of unpermitted sexual conduct on several different occasions. Prigen maintains he did not try to reach out to the woman but that they were connected by someone who reached out to him.

The scene in Niagara Falls after the incident on Saturday night.

A teenage boy is in critical condition after getting struck by a car on Saturday. Officials say it happened just after 7:30 p.m. at the Niagara Falls Motel. The victim’s mother identified him as 14-year-old Kyron Swanson and said he was targeted after he tried to break up a fight. She said he was sticking up for a woman who got hit and tried to get the license plate number of the vehicle and that’s when the car allegedly turned around and ran him over. The driver has been arrested and charged. Two adults were treated for less severe injuries. Their conditions are unknown.

The Batavia Muckdogs swept their double header against the Geneva Red Wings yesterday. The first game was a shutout 12-0 and the second they won 9 to 2. The ‘Dogs are number 1 in the league with 25 wins and 13 losses. Second place is the Elmira Pioneers who have 25 wins and 15 losses. The Muckdogs only have 3 games left in the regular season. They play tomorrow at Dwyer stadium against the Niagara Power; game time is set for 6:35.

ELSEWHERE…

Add this to the long list of things doctors never imagined having to tell patients: Don’t eat or drink Borax. A TikTok trend is suggesting adding a pinch of the “20 Mule Team” Borax to water can help relieve joint pain. Many of the same TikTok videos claim taking a bath while soaking in Borax helps “detoxify” the body. Doctors say consuming Borax can cause blue-green vomit or diarrhea and can eventually lead to anemia and seizures. Soaking in Borax can lead to rashes, according to doctors. Borax is found in laundry detergent and is also packaged on its own as a cleaning product. The main ingredient in Borax is also used to exterminate insects, such as ants and cockroaches.

UPS and the Teamsters union will return to the bargaining table this week. Contract negotiations that will resume Tuesday are aimed at averting a strike by 340,000 UPS workers. The Teamsters’ five-year labor deal with the shipping giant expires at the end of the month. A strike of such magnitude could paralyze many supply chains and do tremendous harm to the economy.

President Biden and former President Trump

A new poll shows voters are not overly enthusiastic about the prospect of a 2024 match-up between President Biden and former President Trump. In fact, less than half those surveyed by the Yahoo News/YouGov poll said they favored either candidate. Biden had a slight edge with 47% support.

The Nelson family beach home.

A California oceanfront mansion where “America’s favorite family” went to get away from Hollywood is on the market. The three-quarter-acre lot that was once Ozzie and Harriet Nelson’s weekend family beach house is up for sale for $42.5 million. The 8,700 square-foot residence has five bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, a movie theater, a wine cellar and unobstructed views of the ocean from almost every room. After Ozzie died in 1975, Harriet Nelson permanently moved into the beach house until her passing in 1994. Their oldest son David Nelson sold the property in 1997 for just under $2 million.

The Powerball jackpot is starting to grow again. Lottery officials say no one picked all six numbers in Saturday’s drawing. That means Monday night’s jackpot in the multi-state lottery game will be worth $28 million. As for Tuesday’s Mega Millions jackpot, that’s worth $820 million. Please play responsibly.

Today is Monday, July 24th, the 205th day of the year.

July 24 in history…

President Nixon

…In 1974, the Supreme Court ruled that President Nixon had to turn over subpoenaed White House tape recordings to prosecutors investigating the Watergate scandal.

Martin and Steinbrenner during one of their happier times.

…In 1978, New York Yankees manager Billy Martin was fired by team owner George Steinbrenner. He was later rehired, then fired, then rehired, then fired.

Lance Armstrong in 2005

…In 2005, Lance Armstrong won his seventh straight Tour de France race and said it was time to retire. Armstrong finished the final state of the race in 118th place, but his time was good enough to retain the title. Ivan Basso of Italy finished second overall. In 2012, Armstrong was formally stripped of all seven Tour de France titles he won and was banned for life. He was charged with using performance-enhancing drugs and blood transfusions.

Sherman Hemsley

…In 2012, actor Sherman Hemsley, best known for playing the role of dry cleaner business owner George Jefferson in the CBS sitcom “The Jeffersons,” died on this date at the age of 74.

Chad Everett as Dr. Gannon

…Also in 2012, actor Chad Everett, star of the 1970s TV series “Medical Center,” died on this date. He was 76.

…In 2019, Facebook paid a $5 billion fine to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission for violating consumer privacy.

Regis Philbin on the set of “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire.”

…In 2020, talk and game show host Regis Philbin died at age 88. He was best known for hosting “Live with Regis and Kathie Lee,” “Live with Regis and Kelly,” and “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.”

Buffalo police say one person is dead and two others are injured following an overnight shooting incident on Genesee Street.  Officers responded to the 400 block of Genesee Street just after 3 a.m. Saturday.  According to police, three people were shot outside. A 31-year-old Buffalo man was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other Buffalo men, ages 33 and 44, were taken to ECMC with non-life-threatening injuries.  Investigators are looking into whether some type of dispute started inside the establishment.

Shooting on Jefferson Ave in Rochester leaves a teen boy dead and another injured.  A 15-year-old and a 16 year old came into URMC with multiple gunshot wounds to the torso and upper-body around 11pm friday.  The 16 year old was treated for non life threatening wounds and discharged.  The 15 year old underwent emergency surgery and died several hours later.  During the course of the investigation, police say they learned the two victims, along with a third person who was not injured, were driving around the area of Jefferson Avenue and Flint Street in a stolen vehicle.  At some point someone shot the car multiple times, hitting the 2 boys.  Police are investigating.  One of the two individuals inside of the stolen vehicle with the deceased victim are being charged for being in possession of a stolen vehicle.  One of the two was remanded to the Rush juvenile detention facility. He was out of custody on a previous stolen vehicle charge and had an active warrant for failing to appear in court.

6 in custody after a police car chase ends in a crash in Rochester on Willow Street.  Around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday, police pursued a vehicle in relation to a weapons investigation.  The pursuit began in the area of Felix Street and ended when the vehicle crashed on Willow Street.  Police say six occupants were taken into custody following several foot-chases and a shotgun was recovered in relation to the incident.  The investigation is ongoing, but all six individuals are expected to face criminal charges as it was later determined that the vehicle was reported stolen out of the county.

Watch out for deer, they won’t watch out for you.  2 people are dead after hitting a deer with a motorcycle on Rt 33 in South Bristol Saturday morning.  They were both flung from the motorcycle.  Police arrived to find 54 year old Barbara Egan and 58 year old Edward Egan of Bloomfield dead on the scene.  

The Muckdogs swept their double header against the Geneva Red Wings Sunday.  The first game the Muckdogs won with 12 to 0 and the second they won 9 to 2.  The Muckdogs are number 1 in the league with 25 and 13 and 0.  Second place is the Elmira Pioneers who have 25 wins and 15 losses.  The Muckdogs only have 3 games left in the regular season.  They play tomorrow at Dwyer stadium against the Niagara Power.

A Byron Bergen teacher went aboard the US EPA Lake Guardian for a research voyage.  Secondary Science Teacher Pete Spence joined the crew on Lake Ontario starting on the 6th with 14 other teachers to collect data in several locations on algae, zooplankton, and benthic organisms.  Spence also assisted in research teams collecting blue-green algae levels at depths up to 40 meters and quagga mussel populations from 60 to 120 meters deep.  Mr. Spence says he hopes to use the lessons he learned with his students in school the coming year.

2 shootings in Rochester leave 1 dead and 1 in the hospital.  A 17 year old  boy was rushed to a hospital with life-threatening injuries after being shot.  Rochester Police said the teen was shot in the area of Nellis Park and Jefferson Avenue around 5 p.m. He then ran to the nearby Flint St. R-Center and was taken to Strong Hospital by ambulance.  As of Friday night, police said the teen was stable after receiving care.  Rochester Police responded to Goodman Street for the report of a man shot around 6:20 p.m. on Friday.  When they arrived at the scene, officers found a man in his 30’s shot multiple times. He was pronounced dead at the scene.  There are currently no suspects in custody, but police say they don’t believe there is any danger to the public at this time.  This is an active investigation.

The Diocese of Rochester sexual abuse survivors have reached a $126.35 million partial settlement in the Diocese of Rochester Case.  The Rochester Diocese declared Bankruptcy after 475 survivors brought suit under the New York Children Victims Act alleging that they were abused by priests and that the Diocese covered it up or failed to protect them before and after the incidents.  50.75 million dollars comes from the Interstate and First State insurance companies and 75.6 million dollars comes from the diocese itself and another insurance company LMI. 

Tough guys protecting kids.  Thats the mission of Bikers Against Child Abuse.  About 20 members of B.A.C.A. Niagara Falls Chapter, stood behind a child victim of sexual abuse in Genesee County Court on Wednesday afternoon. The victim, under 12, sat in the same hallway and the same courtroom with their abuser as they waited for justice to be served.  At one point, the victim became visibly upset when their abuser left the courtroom and walked by as their case was delayed by other cases. B.A.C.A. members then surrounded the victim and their family and gave them support and encouragement to get through the tense moment.  The defendant 67 year old Kevin B. Goodenough of Greece, NY, sexually abused his victim in an incident that occurred on October 8, 2017, when the victim was under 5 years old.  Before sentencing, Judge Lightcap Cianfrini commended the child victim for their bravery in speaking before the court.  Goodenough was sentenced to a 4-month term of incarceration that started Wednesday. He was also sentenced to 10 years of probation. Goodenough will also be required to register as a sex offender. Goodenough must stay away from all schools and cannot have contact with any children under 17, he will pay restitution of $500. Stay Away Orders of Protection were also issued.

The Genesee County Fair started Friday with the Draft Horse Hitch Show.  Over the weekend for 4-H the fair has the Rabbit show and the beef and poultry shows.  Monday lambs and hogs will be on display.  Tuesday Goats and steers, Wednesday Meat and Dairy, Horses, Breeding sheep and Hogs will be shown.  Thursday will have dairy cows, horses, market animal awards and auctions and the Agility Goat show.  Friday caps off the 4-h competitions with another horse show and a costume contest and a working goat show.  The midway is open every day.  There are chainsaw carving exhibitions, pony rides, and nightly special bands and other events.  Check out the gcfair.com website for the whole schedule.

BOCES Photo #1

BOCES Photo #2

Genesee Valley BOCES and Mount Morris BOCES were given $10,000 by Power and Construction Group, the industry leader announced on Thursday. The money will go towards conservation programs and acquiring the essential equipment to teach students the skills necessary to help safeguard and work with the environment. Jason Buchinger is the Vice President of the Power and Construction Group. He noted that the company invests in students to build a strong future workforce. Pictured in BOCES Photo #1: Rachel Slobert (Executive Principal, GV BOCES), Seana Ellis (Executive Assistant, P&CG), Bernadette Harwood (Conservation Teacher, GV BOCES), Schuyler Daugherty (Conservation Teacher, GV BOCES), Jason Buchinger, (Vice President, P&CG), and Tim Flack. (Assistant Principal, GV BOCES)

Pictured in BOCES Photo #2: Kevin MacDonald (District Superintendent, GV BOCES), Rachel Slobert(Executive Principal, GV BOCES), Bernadette Harwood (Conservation Teacher, GV BOCES),Sam Maggio (Teacher Aide, GV BOCES), Schuyler Daugherty (Conservation Teacher, GV BOCES), Seana Ellis (Executive Assistant, P&CG), Jason Buchinger, (Vice President, P&CG), Brian Cousins (President,Genesee County Chamber of Commerce), Tim Flack (Assistant Principal, GV BOCES), Kelly Sattora (Education to Employment Program Associate, Livingston County Chamber & Tourism), Melissa Savino (Member Services Coordinator, Livingston County Chamber & Tourism), and Julie Donlon. (Deputy Superintendent, GV BOCES)

Rochester General Hospital nurses striking (13WHAM Photo)

Members of the Rochester Union of Nurses and Allied Professionals have voted to authorize a strike at Rochester General Hospital. The vote yesterday was more than 90-percent in favor of authorizing a strike, which would be held next month. The hospital says it has a plan in place if a strike is held. Union members say they’ve been negotiating with the hospital system for most of the last year but have been unable to reach agreement on staffing shortages and wage levels. Hospital officials say they’ve recruited more than 150 nurses so far this year and another 100 are expected to be hired next year.

Adam A. Jones

A Buffalo man who admitted to throwing a partially completed pipe bomb through a home in Eden has been sentenced. 41-year-old Adam A. Jones was sentenced to three years’ probation yesterday in State Supreme Court. He pleaded guilty back in March.

Narcan in Lockport vending machine

A life-saving vending machine can now be found at Lockport City Hall. Nonprofit Save the Michaels of the World installed a Narcan machine on Wednesday, offering residents a free resource for those affected by the opioid epidemic. Niagara County ranks second in New York State in overdose deaths and already has 34 this year.

File photo of 4 ounces of marijuana

State Senator George Borrello has introduced legislation to ban the public use of marijuana in the state unless authorized by local laws. The 57th District Republican says his bill would enable local authorities to regulate whether and where marijuana could be publicly consumed. Currently, he says marijuana smoking is allowed anywhere tobacco smoking is permitted. He says he thinks New Yorkers don’t want to be exposed to marijuana smoke.

ELSEWHERE…

Tony Bennett performing at the Statue of Liberty Museum opening celebration at Battery Park (May 15 2019 in New York City)

Tony Bennett has died. The legendary crooner was 96 years old. Bennett was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2016, but continued performing and recording through 2021. His last public appearance was at Radio City Hall with Lady Gaga in 2021. “Variety” says Bennett died this morning in New York City. BIOGRAPHY: Bennett had been battling Alzheimer’s for some time, diagnosed in 2016. The singer passed Friday morning in New York City. He began his career as a singing waiter in his native Queens. He was discovered in 1949 by Pearl Bailey who asked him to open for her, then went on to tour with Bob Hope. In 1950, he was signed to Columbia Records and the following year, released his first hit, “Because of You.” That was followed by such classics as “Rags to Riches” and “Stranger in Paradise” from the Broadway show “Kismet” and what many consider to be his signature song, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.” His popularity dwindled somewhat with the advent of rock n’ roll, but in 1979 with help from his son, he staged one of the most successful comebacks in entertainment history. His music spanned several decades as well as a variety of genres including big band, jazz and show tunes in addition to traditional and classic pop standards. He won 20 Grammys, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as two Emmys. Bennett was a veteran, and later a pacifist, having served in the infantry during World War II and was an accomplished painter. Tony Bennett, dead at the age of 96.

Donald Trump (File photo)

The start date for former President Trump’s trial in his classified documents case is set for next year. Judge Aileen Cannon has scheduled the trial to begin May 20th, 2024. The trial will begin months after the GOP begins its 2024 presidential primary season. Trump is facing more than three dozen federal charges related to his handling of classified documents. He pleaded not guilty to all counts last month.

New York State has OK’ed marijuana sales at festivals, fairs and concerts. New York’s pot farmers complained about all the marijuana they’ve harvested that’s just sitting around unsold because the state’s been so slow to roll out its legal marijuana dispensaries. Only 20 are open statewide, so the Cannabis Control Board is giving farmers the go-ahead to sell stockpiled weed at concerts, fairs and festivals in locations that have no legal pot shops. They can also partner with a processor who’ll be allowed to sell marijuana edibles and vape cartridges.

Lester Holt with NORAD Commander General Glen VanHerck (NBC Nightly News Photo)

The head of NORAD says the Chinese spy balloon that flew across the U.S. exposed gaps in the military’s ability to detect threats. In an interview with NBC News, General Glen VanHerck said radars were not looking for high-altitude balloons traveling at very slow speeds through American airspace. He added that incident prompted the development of new surveillance technology. Pictured: NORAD Commander General Glen VanHerck speaks with Lester Holt. The interview was done at the NORAD headquarters.

Canadian wildfire, early July 2023

Wildfires are being reported across the western U.S. Arizona, California, New Mexico and Oregon all reported new wildfires during this week’s record-setting heat wave. Meanwhile, air quality in the northern U.S. is slowly improving as smoke from Canadian wildfires starts to thin.

File photo

Home sales for June are at their slowest pace in more than a decade. The National Association of Realtors says sales of pre-owned homes last month dropped 18.9% from June 2022, the biggest drop since 2009. Realtors blame lack of available housing, rather than a lack of demand.

Today is Friday, July 21st, the 202nd day of the year.

July 21 in history…

The Missouri-Kansas Conflict; 1st Battle of Bull Run Creek

…In 1861, the Confederates held off the Union troops in the Battle of Bull Run Creek at Manassas Junction, Virginia. It was the first major battle of the American Civil War.

$3,000 purchasing power in 1873 is roughly equivalent to $70,000 today

…In 1873, Jesse James and his gang robbed the Rock Island Express train at Adair, Iowa. The gang got away with $3,000.

John T. Scopes

…In 1925, the John T. Scopes “Monkey Trial” ended in the Dayton, Tennessee. Scopes was convicted of violating state law by teaching Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution. His conviction was later overturned.

Group photo of signatories for Executive Order 5398, which consolidated three agencies into the Veterans Administration. Left to right: Col. George E. Ima, acting Veterans Bureau Administrator, later VA Assistant Administrator; Brig. Gen. Frank T. Hines, Administrator of Veterans Affairs; President Herbert Hoover; Col. Louis H. Tripp, Director of Construction; Charles M. Griffith, M.D., Chief Medical Director. (Charles M. Griffith, Jr)

…In 1930, The Veterans Administration of the United States was established.

Emmett Kelly

…In 1947, Loren MacIver’s famous portrait of Emmett Kelly as “Willie the Clown” appeared on the cover of “Life” magazine.

Mary Hart and her $1,000,000 legs

…In 1987, Mary Hart of television’s “Entertainment Tonight” had her legs insured by Lloyd’s of London for a reported $1 million.

…In 2007, at one minute after midnight, the highly anticipated final book in the “Harry Potter” series went on sale at retail outlets around the world. J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” sold an estimated 8.3 million copies in its first 24 hours of release to become the fastest selling book on record.

Tony Bennett, during a performance in May 2019 in New York City.

Tony Bennett has died. The legendary crooner was 96 years old. Bennett was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2016, but continued performing and recording through 2021. His last public appearance was at Radio City Hall with Lady Gaga in 2021. “Variety” magazine says Bennett died this morning in New York City.

BIOGRAPHY: Bennett had been battling Alzheimer’s for some time, diagnosed in 2016. The singer passed Friday morning in New York City. He began his career as a singing waiter in his native Queens. He was discovered in 1949 by Pearl Bailey who asked him to open for her, then went on to tour with Bob Hope. In 1950, he was signed to Columbia Records and the following year, released his first hit, “Because of You.” That was followed by such classics as “Rags to Riches” and “Stranger in Paradise” from the Broadway show “Kismet” and what many consider to be his signature song, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.”

His popularity dwindled somewhat with the advent of rock n’ roll, but in 1979 with help from his son, he staged one of the most successful comebacks in entertainment history. His music spanned several decades as well as a variety of genres including big band, jazz and show tunes in addition to traditional and classic pop standards. He won 20 Grammys, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, as well as two Emmys. Bennett was a veteran, and later a pacifist, having served in the infantry during World War II and was an accomplished painter. Tony Bennett, dead at the age of 96.

Members of the Rochester Union of Nurses and Allied Professionals have voted to authorize a strike at Rochester General Hospital.  The vote yesterday was more than 90-percent in favor of authorizing a strike, which would be held next month.  The hospital says it has a plan in place if a strike is held.  Union members say they’ve been negotiating with the hospital system for most of the last year but have been unable to reach agreement on staffing shortages and wage levels.  Hospital officials say they’ve recruited more than 150 nurses so far this year and another 100 are expected to be hired next year.  

Severe storms rolled across Western New York last night, knocking down power lines and leaving thousands of utility customers in the dark.  The storm brought heavy rains, high wind and some small hail.  Most of the National Grid customers who lost power were in Erie County.  More than three-thousand were without electricity in Chautauqua County.  New York State Electric and Gas reported more than 11-thousand customers were without power late last night.  Governor Kathy Hochul says her teams are ready to help local communities with equipment and whatever other resources are necessary to recover from the storm.   

Ahead of the upcoming winter months, the Erie County Legislature has approved a plan to temporarily drop all county sales tax on home heating bills.  The sales tax would not be added to customers’ bills during the coldest months of winter — December, January and February.  The bill’s passage yesterday enjoyed bipartisan support from the county legislature.  Right now, Erie County has a four-point-seven-five-percent sales on home heating bills.

The two people who allegedly dragged a woman out of a Henrietta hotel as part of a prostitution related kidnapping have plead not guilty to sex trafficking charges.  Cordell Brooks and Shuntiayana Sims are accused of trafficking the woman seen on security camera videos from the hotel for several weeks.  Brooks is accused of trafficking several women.  The pair were apprehended after a concerned guest called 911 after seeing them drag a woman out of the hotel and into a car from his hotel room window.  The unidentified guest said he thought he was witnessing a domestic violence incident.  The hotel worker in the lobby also called 911.  Assistant District Attorney Rachel Clark noted it was particularly disturbing that the incident happened at a hotel in a heavily commercial area that many people pass through on any given day.

Genesee Valley BOCES and Mount Morris BOCES were given 10,000 dollars by Power and Construction Group, the industry leader announced on Thursday.  The money will go towards conservation programs and acquiring the essential equipment to teach students the skills necessary to help safeguard and work with the environment.  Vice President of Power and Construction Group, Jason Buchinger, said that the company invests in students to build a strong future workforce.

State senator George Borrello has introduced legislation to ban the public use of marijuana in New York state unless authorized by local laws.  The 57th District Republican says his bill would enable local authorities to regulate whether and where marijuana could be publicly consumed.  Currently, he says marijuana smoking is allowed anywhere tobacco smoking is permitted. He says he thinks New Yorkers don’t want to be exposed to marijuana smoke.

Photo is from the Lions Club Facebook page.

The Batavia Lions Club is hosting a fundraiser, and a delicious one at that: They’re offering hot dogs at $3 each or 2 for $5. They’ll be at Harry’s Niagara Mobil Station next to McDonald’s in the Aldi’s Plaza every Saturday through August 26th from 10:00am to 2:00pm (except July 29th when they’ll be at the Crossroads Tent Sale). Money raised goes toward local vision and auditory assistance. They also have soda, water and Pocky candy (those yummy chocolate covered wafer sticks).

Joe McConnell

Regrets when it comes to finances; in this report, Joe McConnell took a closer look at which age groups have the most regrets:

This portion of Richmond Avenue is closed today and for most of tomorrow. (WBTA Photo)

Today Richmond Avenue between Union Street and Vernon Avenue will be closed to all through traffic. This closure is to mill and resurface damaged pavement and the work and closure will extend into the late afternoon tomorrow. If you drive through this area please seek an alternative route while the closures are in place. Residents within the area of the closure may be delayed. If you have questions, please call the Bureau of Maintenance at 345-6400, and use option #1.

File photo; supplies provided to Batavia students may not include everything that is pictured here.

The Batavia City School District will be providing family’s standard school supplies for the start of the 2023 school year. That means more than 2200 students will receive supplies including crayons, markers, pencils and glue sticks when they walk in the door. It’s a program that Superintendent Jason Smith says is a ‘first’ for the district. It will cost the Batavia City School District around $125 per student, but this a program he hopes will continue in the future, adding that he wants students to be successful and believes this is doing the right thing for families.

41-year-old Joshua Jones of Auburn has been charged with disorderly conduct. This followed his arrest following investigation of a disturbance at Six Flags Darien Lake. Jones was released on an appearance ticket for Darien Town Court on August 17th.

File photo; nurses at Rochester General protesting in January 2023

Nurses at Rochester General Hospital are scheduled to vote today on whether to strike over low staffing levels. Members of the Rochester Union of Nurses and Allied Professionals say they’ve been negotiating with the hospital system for the last nine months and have been unable to reach agreement on staffing shortages and wage levels. Hospital officials say they’ve recruited more than 150 nurses so far this year and another 100 are expected to be hired next year.

Governor Hochul (file photo)

Governor Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday that the state is spending more money on electric vehicle charging infrastructure and rebates. Wednesday’s announcement is meant to help the state reach its goal of requiring all new passenger cars, pickup trucks and SUVs sold in the state to be zero emission by 2035. Twenty-nine-million-dollars is going toward the “Drive Clean Rebate” program. New York State reached 150,000 E-V’s on the road last month. The state is also aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85 percent by 2050.

Aftermath of accident that seriously injured 11-year-old girl (provided photo)

An eleven-year-old girl is in critical condition after she was struck by a vehicle while riding her bicycle and was then pinned underneath it. Niagara Falls Police were called to the scene around 11:00 yesterday morning. Investigation revealed the Kia ‘veered to the right, jumped the curb, hit a tree, and came to a rest on top of the child, who had been thrown from the initial impact. The girl was rushed to Oishei Children’s Hospital. The car was driven by a 24-year-old woman from Niagara Falls; she had three passengers with her who were not injured; all four are cooperating in the investigation and charges are pending.

Darius Pridgen

True Bethel Baptist Church Bishop Darius Pridgen is accused of being a “sexual predator.” A woman filed the lawsuit in New York State Supreme Court on Tuesday. She claims in 2020 the Bishop engaged in un-permitted sexual conduct while she was a parishioner and volunteer. The woman says she was repeatedly abused on church premises seven times. Pridgen is the president of Buffalo’s Common Council. He’s served on the council for 12-years and announced in January that he will not run for re-election.

Ron Raccuia (file photo)

The front office of the Buffalo Bills has a few changes — with the departure of the team’s executive vice president and chief operating officer, Ron Raccuia. The team’s CEO and owner — Terry Pegula — has taken over as president of the Bills. He takes over the role previously held by his wife, Kim, who received medical treatment last year for what the team described as unexpected health issues. In a statement, the team thanked Raccuia for his years of dedication and wished him and his family the best of luck in his future endeavors. Raccuia has been instrumental in developing plans for a new stadium for the Bills. The Bills have also named a new chief operating officer, a new general counsel and a new senior vice president of finance.

The Muckdogs beat the Jamestown Tarp Skunks on Wednesday with a comeback in the Tenth Inning and a final score of 7 to 6. Batavia trailed the whole game until the 9th inning when it made up 4 runs sending the game into ten innings. The Muckdogs scored 1 run to win it. The Muckdogs are now 23 and 13 on the season and are ranked second in the league behind the Elmira Pioneers who have one less loss. Today is a much-deserved day off for the ‘Dogs. Batavia’s next game is against the Newark Pilots on Military Appreciation Night Friday night at Dwyer; the players take the field starting at 6:35.

ELSEWHERE…

A ‘lucky dog’ in Los Angeles won big. Very big.

A single winning ticket in the billion-dollar Powerball lottery has been sold in Los Angeles. The lucky winner, or winners, can choose between a billion dollars in annuity payments, or go for the lump-sum payment of about 516 million dollars. It’s the second time in eight months a Powerball ticket worth at least $1 billion was sold in Los Angeles County. In November, a Powerball ticket worth over $2 billion was sold at a gas station in Altadena. If you didn’t win the jackpot, don’t throw your ticket away — over 30 people matched at least five numbers to win at least $1 million. (7-10-11-13-24 Powerball: 24)

Olivia Caraballo was awarded $800,000 in settlement from a McDonald’s franchise owner. 

A South Florida jury is agreeing on an $800,000 verdict against McDonald’s and the franchise owner, Upchurch Foods. The case stems from an incident back in 2019 where a four-year-old girl was burned when she dropped a hot Chicken McNugget, which became wedged between her car seat and her thigh. Her mother who purchased it at a drive-thru handed the food to the girl. The girl suffered a second-degree burn to her leg.

“Mama! Statistically you’re supposed to be up early because we’re doing everything earlier than ever before! C’mon, let’s play!”

Hybrid and remote workers eager to leave the house as soon as they close their laptops are fueling the shift to early bird primetime. Restaurants are now seating 10% of diners between 2 and 5 p.m., up from 5% in 2019, according to Yelp. Dinner parties are starting as early as 5:00pm; a third of the shows now running on Broadway start in the 7:00pm hour on Fridays, according to Playbill, which had been unheard of a few years ago. Uber trips to restaurants in the 4:00pm hour have increased nearly 10% since 2019, while rides to restaurants after 8:00pm are down 9%. Pandemic altered ways that we functioned in every way, including dinner times.

Canadian wildfire (Early July 2023)

Air quality is slowly improving for millions as smoke from Canadian wildfires starts to thin. Despite the improvements, air quality alerts are still in place in over a dozen states in the Northeast from New Hampshire to Wyoming. This week, four states reported new wildfires, bringing the nationwide total to roughly two-dozen as a heat wave slams the Southern United States.

Today is Thursday, July 20th, the 201st day of the year.

July 20 in history…

Marconi with his toys

…In 1937, Italian inventor and physicist Guglielmo Marconi died on this date. Marconi is credited as a pioneer in the creation of radio technology. He was awarded a Nobel Prize for Physics in 1909. (Picture: Guglielmo Marconi – with typical apparatus including 10-inch induction coil spark transmitter to the right, a Morse inker and grasshopper key, in the center)

A clipping from Billboard magazine, July 27, 1940

…In 1940, “Billboard” magazine published its first list of best selling singles.

F.D.R. pictured during a 1944 campaign speech (NBC Photo)

…In 1944, President Franklin D. Roosevelt was nominated for an unprecedented fourth term of office at the Democratic convention in Chicago.

Jane Asher with Beatle Paul

…In 1968, Jane Asher broke off her engagement with Paul McCartney on live TV.

Special Olympics, 1968

…Also in 1968, the very first Special Olympic Games were held at Soldier Field in Chicago. About 1,000 athletes from the U.S. and Canada took part in the one-day event.

Neil Armstrong taking a walk; he might do a little golfing later.

…In 1969, astronaut Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the surface of the moon. He famously declared, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” Buzz Aldrin later joined his colleague on the moon’s surface. Astronaut Michael Collins piloted the Apollo Eleven command ship Columbia on the historic occasion.

President Reagan moments before the shooting.

Frank Reynolds, listening for updates on an earpiece and reporting. 

…In 1983, “ABC News” anchor Frank Reynolds died at the age of 59. Reynolds in best known for scolding staff members while on air following the assassination attempt on President Reagan. He was upset after misinforming the nation that Press Secretary James Brady died in the attack.

Vanessa Williams

…In 1984, Miss America Vanessa Williams was asked to resign by pageant officials because nude photos of Williams surfaced in “Penthouse.” Williams surrendered her title three days later.

O.J. reacts to being found ‘not guilty’ for the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman.

…In 1994, O.J. Simpson offered a reward of $500,000 for the capture of his wife’s “real killer.” Simpson’s legal team set up a toll-free number for leads.

A man hired to do work on a woman’s home was sentenced to life in prison for stabbing her to death.  Piero Scala was convicted in April for killing Cathy O’Brien at her Webster home in October 2019.  Family members of O’Brien said she hired him to fix problems around her house two years prior to her murder.  According to court testimony, Scala was caught on camera attempting to pawn items he stole from his 56-year-old victim’s home after he killed her.  He was convicted of second-degree murder and two counts of possessing stolen property.

A Rochester man is heading to prison for killing his estranged wife last year.  A judge sentenced 50 year old Juan Rivera to 25 years in prison Wednesday for the stabbing death of 35 year old Maribel Diaz whose body was found June 17, 2022 inside her vehicle on Suntru Street.  Police found Rivera hours later at his parents’ home on McNaughton Street. They said he set the home on fire when they arrived, surrendering a few minutes later. The fire killed 11 animals in the house.  Rivera pleaded guilty in May to manslaughter and arson.  Prosecutors said Diaz was “beginning to gain her independence from a controlling and toxic marriage” when Rivera killed her.

For the first time the Batavia City School District will be providing families standard school supplies for the start of the 2023 school year.  That means more than 2200 students will receive supplies including crayons, markers, pencils and glue sticks when they walk in the door.  It’s a program that Superintendent Smith says will cost the Batavia City School District around $125 per student, but a program he hopes will continue in the future.  Smith says he wants students to be successful and that he wants to do the “right thing for families.”

The state’s Office of Cannabis Management is now allowing growers to showcase and sell cannabis products. Retailers can partner with up to three-farmers and a processor to do pop-up sales at locations approved and vetted by the office. The hope is that the move will provide opportunity for entrepreneurship and ensure the products reach consumers. O-C-M says another 212 card-licenses have been awarded to dispensaries across the state. Nine of those licenses went to Western New York. 

The Muckdogs beat the Jamestown Tarp Skunks on Wednesday with a comeback in the Tenth Inning and a final score of 7 to 6.  Batavia trailed the whole game until the 9th inning when it made up 4 runs sending the game into ten innings.  The Muckdogs scored 1 run to win it.  The Muckdogs are now 23 and 13 on the season and are ranked second in the league behind the Elmira Pioneers who have one less loss.  The Muckdogs next game is against the Newark Pilots on Friday night in Dwyer Stadium starting at 6:35.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced Wednesday that the state is spending more money on electric vehicle charging infrastructure and rebates.  Wednesday’s announcement is meant to help the state reach its goal of requiring all new passenger cars, pickup trucks and SUVs sold in the state to be zero emission by 2035.  Twenty-nine-million-dollars is going toward the “Drive Clean Rebate” program. New York state reached 150-thousand E-V’s on the road last month.  The state is also aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85 percent by 2050.

Natalie Migliore

Governor Kathy Hochul is taking executive action to support new affordable housing projects across New York State. Natalie Migliore has details: