WBTA STAFF
July 19, 2023 
Natalie Migliore
Governor Kathy Hochul is taking executive action to support new affordable housing projects across New York State. Natalie Migliore has details:
32-year-old Jada Coursey of Warren, Pennsylvania was arrested in Darien and charged with harassment and endangering the welfare of a child following a domestic incident. It’s alleged she struck another individual in front of a child. Coursey was released with an appearance ticket for Town of Darien Court for August 8th.
The event called America’s biggest garden walk returns to Buffalo at the end of this month. People can pick up a map and give themselves a self-guided tour from 10:00 until 4 p.m. on July 29th and 30th. The free maps are available at Canisius High School field house, St. Mark School and Westside Community Services.
The Muckdogs fall to 2nd place with their loss to Jamestown last night, but look for revenge on $1 Hot Dog Weenie Wednesday night tonight as they host the Tarp Skunks. The game gets underway at 6:35.
A new report says nearly 800,000 Americans die or become disabled each year after being misdiagnosed. The report from Johns Hopkins University says patients are being diagnosed with the wrong conditions across a range of healthcare settings each year. The researchers estimate about 370,000 of those patients die from their misdiagnosis, while over 420,000 are permanently disabled.
The investigation into the Gilgo Beach murders in New York continues as officials build their case against suspected serial killer Rex Heuermann. The search for answers is expanding to South Carolina where FBI agents said they recovered Heuermann’s older Chevy Avalanche truck, which could be a potential key piece of evidence in the case. Evidence teams have been back into Heuermann’s Massapequa Park home.
FROM THE GENESEE COUNTY SHERIFF: 34-year-old Benjamin Evans of Batavia has been arrested. He’s charged with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance following an incident on Veteran’s Memorial Drive. Evans was released on an appearance ticket and is scheduled for Batavia Town Court on September 5th. ALSO: 38-year-old Jason Howard of Angus Ontario Canada was arrested for trespass and disorderly conduct. It’s alleged he stayed at Six Flags Darien Lake after being told multiple times to leave by their security. Howard was also yelling obscenities and was causing a public inconvenience by making unreasonable noises. He was issued appearance tickets and is scheduled to return to Darien Town Court early next month. ALSO: 22-year-old Rebecca Fugate of Batavia has been arrested for harassment and physical contact. It’s alleged she struck another person in the chest with her hand. Fugate was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to return to Batavia Town Court next Tuesday afternoon.
34-year-old Crystal Bouter of Batavia has been arrested and charged with criminal mischief. She was arrested following an investigation into an altercation in the parking lot of a local business, where Bouter allegedly damaged another person’s cell phone. She was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled for Batavia City Court today.
As reported earlier today by Tom Tharp: Two of the new board members of the Western Regional Off Track Betting are high-ranking members of the Erie County Democratic Committee. Jennifer Hibit is the Secretary and Crystal Rodriguez-Dabney is the Vice Chair of the ECDC. The board was disbanded in May by the New York State Assembly, Senate leaders and Governor Hochul in response to a proposal by Democratic State Senator Tim Kennedy of Buffalo. The move would reconfigure the voting method from one municipality/one vote to a weighted system based on population. As a result, the majority of the 100 votes are in the hands of directors from Erie and Monroe counties and Buffalo and Rochester. The weighted voting system gives Erie County 24 votes, followed by Monroe County (20), Buffalo (10) and Rochester (eight). Niagara County also has eight votes, while Chautauqua has five; Oswego, four; Steuben, Wayne, Cattaraugus and Cayuga, three each; Livingston and Genesee, two each; Wyoming, Orleans, Seneca and Schuyler, one each. The directors will serve four-year terms.
Parents have a new weapon to protect their kids from RSV. The FDA has approved the drug Beyfortus for injection, a ready-made antibody that can bind to the virus and stop it from infecting cells. It’s the first long-lasting drug for at-risk toddlers and infants susceptible to the respiratory illness. RSV was part of last year’s so-called “tripledemic,” which also included the flu and COVID.
The Powerball jackpot has reached a billion dollars after there was no grand prizewinner in Monday night’s big drawing. The cash option on that works out to nearly $517 million. Last night’s drawing did make $1,000,000 (million) winners out of players in five states. Three lucky tickets worth $2,000,000 were sold in Georgia, Arkansas and Texas. Meanwhile, Tuesday night’s Mega Millions drawing is also through the roof with $640 million up for grabs.
A punishing heat wave being felt across the Southwest is showing no signs of letting up. Phoenix hit 110 degrees Monday for a record-tying 18th consecutive day. Temperatures of at least 115 degrees are in the forecast for the next several days.
…In 1994, Crayola announced their introduction of scented crayons.
The City Council is seeking to fill a part-time City Court Judge position. This position is appointed by City Council to serve the remainder of a term ending 12/31/26.
Minimum qualifications require candidates to be an attorney admitted to practice law in the State of New York for at least five (5) years as of the date he or she commences the duties of the office and must be a resident of the City of Batavia.
All interested candidates please submit a letter of interest and resume to:
City Court Judge
Attn: City Council President Eugene Jankowski, Jr.
One Batavia City Centre
Batavia, New York 14020
Resumes and letters of interest are due by 4:30 PM on Friday August 4. 2023. Please provide hard copies of your materials directly to the City Manager’s office.
If there are any questions, please contact:
Office of the City Manager
One Batavia City Centre
Batavia, New York 14020
Phone: (585) 345-6330
E-mail: rtabelski@batavianewyork.com
The Genesee County Fair is back starting this Saturday and running through the 29th. There will be nightly live music, daily 4-H animal shows, pig races, woodcarving, fair queen and princess pageants and a larger midway with games and rides. There will be a special preview Friday afternoon starting at 3. The cost is $10 per car for entry. Rides are $15 for a wristband to get on all the rides; there are also special tickets for the demolition derby and Enduro 100 Lap Race. Visit 
Seven men are facing charges in Buffalo after police executed search warrants at several locations around the city. Police say three specific search warrants at residences on West Ferry Street, Pennsylvania Avenue and Titus Avenue late last week. A large amount of narcotics, including cocaine, meth, ketamine and fentanyl, were seized during the arrests. Those taken into custody face a slew of drug-related counts.
Buffalo Public Schools is hiring security officers. Officials there tell us that anyone who wants to apply to be a security officer in the district should apply on the BPS website. Interviews will be held on July 25th. Applicants have to be Buffalo residents and BPS officials say those with security guard experience are especially wanted.
The Batavia Muckdogs were defeated 4-2 by the Newark Pilots and now have two upcoming road games against the Niagara Power tonight and the Jamestown Tarp Skunks tomorrow. And then, there’s no place like home…the Muckdogs host the Tarp Skunks Wednesday night. Players take the field at 6:35.
The first state-approved marijuana dispensary is set to open in the Buffalo region later this week. Herbal IQ in Depew is set to throw open its doors to cannabis consumers on Friday. The owners of Herbal IQ were granted a conditional adult-use marijuana retail dispensary license by the state two months ago and they’ve been working ever since to get their shop open.
…In 1984, the U.S. passes the National Minimum Drinking Age Act, prohibiting those under the age of 21 from buying or possessing alcohol.
37-year-old Ebony Shine of Rochester has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess 400 grams or more of Fentanyl, with the intent to distribute. She also sold a firearm to an undercover law enforcement agent. Investigation revealed she was operating in both Medina and Rochester. Shine faces a penalty of 10 years to life in prison and a $10 million fine. Sentencing is scheduled for November 2.
Home prices nationwide have risen in recent months but few have seen that increase more sharply than homebuyers in our region. For example, the website 
Monday is the last chance for taxpayers to claim a tax refund from 2019. The IRS says nearly $1.5 billion in refunds remain unclaimed from the year before the pandemic, and about 1,500,000 taxpayers may still be eligible for a refund. The 2019 return must be filed on paper and postmarked by Monday.
Film and television production is grinding to a halt as Hollywood actors hit the picket lines today. The union representing 160,000 actors is going on strike, joining the screenwriters who have been picketing for nearly 2-1/2 months. The biggest entertainment shutdown in decades means all work covered by union actors must stop.
The results of a brand-new poll show a majority of New Yorkers are concerned about their safety. According to the Siena College Research Institute survey, 61% of people said they worry about being a crime victim. Also, 51% of respondents said they have been concerned about their safety or the safety of their families in schools and houses of worship. When asked if they’ve spent $100 or more in the last year on things to protect themselves from crime, 40% of people said yes.
The American Red Cross is once again providing an incentive to get people to roll up their sleeves and donate blood. The agency says anyone who donates through July 16th will automatically receive a $15 e-gift card. The Red Cross says the summer months are a time when donations slow down and it is important that there’s enough blood available for people who need it. To find the next donation clinic, head to 
GO Health is encouraging people 45 and over to get checked for Colorectal Cancer. It is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. When screening for colorectal cancer, providers are looking for polyps, or abnormal growths, which may turn into cancer over time. Removing them early may decrease the risk of cancer. Choosing to eat in a more healthful manner has shown to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer as well as other chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease and diabetes. People are also encouraged to increase physical activity, keep a healthy weight, limit alcohol consumption and avoid the use of tobacco/nicotine. Talk with your healthcare provider about how you can reduce your risk and when you should start screening for colorectal cancer.
Burger King Thailand has introduced a unique new cheeseburger. The global fast food chain announced a new entree called “The Real Cheeseburger,” which will feature 20 slices of American cheese inside a sesame seed bun. A Thai travel expert said putting cheese on everything was a popular trend in Thailand, but he struggled to eat it. Burger King hasn’t publicly addressed whether the new cheeseburger would be included on menus in the United States.
And speaking of debt: Credit card interest rates remain historically high despite inflation cooling last month. Credit card interest rates now average 20% — the highest since Bankrate started surveying and tracking the numbers back in 1985. The average credit card borrower has an outstanding balance of over $5,700.
…In 1836, John Ruggles received patent number one from the U.S. Patent Office. Ruggles patented his traction wheel for use in locomotive steam engines.
The investigation continues into a shooting just after midnight early this morning in the Holland Avenue area of Batavia that sent a woman to the hospital. Police say between 10 and 15 people were at a gathering when a disturbance turned into a fight and shots rang out. A female victim was shot and was taken to ECMC by ground ambulance. The group involved in the disturbance ran from the area during the incident and the suspect in the shooting also fled on foot. Police continue their search for the suspect and at this time, no arrests have been made and no additional information is available. If you have information that could help police with this investigation, please call the Batavia Police Tip Line at 585-345-6370.
19-year-old Anthony Gallo of Clarence has been arrested and charged with grand larceny. It’s alleged he stole a backpack containing more than $1000 worth of property while inside the Darien Lake Theme Park. Gallo will be arraigned in Genesee County Court July 20th.
Officials with Catholic Charities of Buffalo have revealed the results of the agency’s annual appeal. They say more than $9.1 million was raised, which is short of the $9.5 million they were hoping for. Nearly 24,000 people donated money, which will be used to support more than 50 programs in the Western New York region. Catholic Charities is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and anyone who wants to give can go to 
More than one in three Americans are going through a “sleep divorce.” That’s when someone regularly or occasionally sleeps in another room than their partner in order to get some rest without distractions like snoring or alarms. The data came to light in a survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, which found that “sleep divorce” was most prominent among millennials, 43 percent of whom said they sleep in different rooms.
Amazon Prime Day wraps up tonight. The two-day sale is exclusive to Amazon Prime members, or to those who sign up for a 30-day free trial. As part of the event, new deals will be dropping on Amazon throughout the day, including discounts on major brand merchandise.
…In 1933, a minimum wage of 25-cents an hour was established. Somewhat ironically, there were no quarters minted in 1933.
The New York State Department of Transportation is reminding drivers about a travel advisory that is going to be in effect today. From 8:30am until 3:00pm there will be lane closures on Interstate 490 west between State Route 33 and State Route 386. The closures are needed so that crews can repair pavement in that area and will be in effect through this Friday. Plan accordingly if you need to travel on this portion of the highway and prepared for delays.
A Lockport man is in some serious legal trouble after being accused of committing disturbing crimes. According to State Police, 71-year-old James Wilson kidnapped and sexually assaulted a woman at gunpoint at an apartment complex located on Robinson Road Sunday. Wilson was taken into custody and sent to the Niagara County Jail. Officials haven’t said how badly the victim was injured.
A statue of a Buffalo that stood on a concrete platform in the Niagara Street Corridor was stolen over the weekend. There were 4 statues and the Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York spent about $10,000 to put them there. According to police it appears the thieves drove up to the statue and loaded the heavy statue into a vehicle with hand tools and then attempted unsuccessfully to take a second statue. A City of Buffalo spokesperson says Buffalo Police are investigating the statue theft.
A grand jury has indicted seven people for their alleged roles in an illegal multimillion-dollar Rochester-based gambling ring. Louis P. Ferrari II, Dominic Sprague and Tomasso Sessa are charged with two counts of conspiracy, one count of transmission of wagering information, and two counts of operating an illegal gambling business. Anthony Amato, Joseph Lombardo, Jeffrey Boscarino and James Civiletti are charged with one count of conspiracy, one count of transmission of wagering information, and one count of operating an illegal gambling business. Prosecutors said Ferrari also used his excavating business on Steel Street in Rochester to collect cash payment of gambling losses and launder the proceeds illegally, while Sprague used his own pawnshop on Stone Road in Greece to collect gambling losses and pay them out to winning bettors.
With Amazon’s Prime Day sales event getting underway, the company is warning customers to watch out for scammers. Scammers posing as Amazon representatives is quite common and leads to millions of dollars in losses every year. The company says if there’s a suspicious text or email asking to get in touch or to download software, do not reply. Instead contact Amazon customer service directly.
The Mega Millions jackpot just keeps growing and is now closing in on hitting the half-billion dollar mark. The jackpot up for grabs this evening is now $480 million after no one claimed the top prize this past Friday. There has not been a Mega Millions winner since April when a $20 million winning ticket was sold in New York. Tonight’s drawing will be streamed at 
…In 1914, Babe Ruth made his major league debut with the Boston Red Sox.
…In 1934, the government appointed the first seven commissioners to the newly created Federal Communications Commission.
Western New York drivers are seeing consistent prices at the pump when it comes time to fill-up their vehicles. According to Triple A, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $3.54. The state average, as always, is a little higher at $3.68. In Batavia, we’re paying on average $3.58 per gallon, that’s down three cents from a week ago and $1.15 from a year ago today.
The Muckdogs took their 4th straight win on Saturday at Dwyer Stadium with a victory against Elmira 4 to 2. Pitcher Ryan Kinney had a no-hitter for the first 8 innings. The Muckdogs are now 19-8 after winning 10 of their past 12 games and are three games up on Elmira in the Western Division. The win was also Batavia’s 15th straight at home. The Muckdogs are in Jamestown tonight and return to Dwyer tomorrow to host Geneva; players take the field at 6:35.
…In 1900, RCA’s trademark logo “His Master’s Voice” was registered with the U.S. Patent Office. The logo features a dog looking into the horn of a gramophone machine.
…In 1989, celebrated cartoon voice Mel Blanc died on this date at the age 81. Blanc was the voice behind Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Woody Woodpecker and others.
The New York State Police today announced that nearly 13,000 tickets (12,991) were issued statewide during the 4th of July STOP-DWI enforcement campaign. During the campaign, which was funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, State Police utilized sobriety checkpoints, additional DWI patrols, and ticketed distracted drivers who used handheld electronic devices. Troopers arrested 193 people for DWI and investigated 949 crashes, including 158 personal injury crashes and five fatalities. As part of the enforcement, Troopers also targeted speeding and aggressive drivers across the state. Here is a sampling of the total tickets that were issued:
Millennials are apparently the worst offenders when it comes to lying on social media and in the workplace. A new survey from online casino PlayStar looked at more than 1300 people to ask them how much they lie. More than 1 in 10 millennials said they lie at least once a day. On the other hand, only two percent of Baby Boomers admitted the same. Some of the biggest areas of deception included fabricating something on a resume and lying on social media to impress others.
…In 1802, “The Wasp” was published in Hudson, New York. It was the first comic book.
…In 1865, four people were executed by hanging for conspiring with John Wilkes Booth to assassinate President Abraham Lincoln.
…In 1920, the radio compass was used for the first time on a United States Navy airplane.
A Heat Advisory has been issued for Niagara, Orleans, and Genesee counties until 8pm this evening. Heat index values are expected to be in the mid-upper 90s. The high temperatures and humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur. Health officials recommend drinking plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room and stay out of the sun. You should wear lightweight, loose-fit clothing. They also suggest checking up on your relatives and neighbors. If you have to be outside, you should plan any strenuous activities for early morning or in the evening. Those having to work outside should take breaks in a shaded area or an air-conditioned environment. Some of the indicators of heat-related illnesses, as well as a comprehensive list of suggestions for keeping cool during the heat advisory period, is available at the bottom of this page following July 6 in history. Scroll all the way down to find it.
Next Monday, July 10th, Fairmont Avenue, Hart Street, and Norris Avenue (between State and Bank Streets) will be closed to all through traffic. This closure is expected to be between the hours of 7:00am and 5:00pm in order to perform cold milling on the roadway surfaces. It is expected to be a milled surface for a 2-week period while sewer structures are repaired. Street repaving will follow. All motorists that regularly use these streets are asked to seek alternative routes while the closures are in place. Businesses and residents within the area of the closure should anticipate delays, but they’ll accommodate getting you to and from your residence or place of business. Anyone with questions should call 345-6400 and choose option 1.
Starting tomorrow, a COVID-19 vaccine is no longer going to be required for employees at Rochester Regional Health. This change comes after the New York State Department of Health announced the mandate was going to be repealed. Individuals who left after refusing to get vaccinated are being offered the opportunity to return to their old jobs. Administrators continue to urge workers to get immunized to protect themselves and others from the coronavirus.
Ironically, on a day that we have heat advisories in place, today, July 6, the Earth is at its furthest from the Sun; the next time it will be at its closest will be on January 2, 2024. (“Aphelion” defined: the point in the orbit of a planet, asteroid, or comet at which it is furthest from the sun; “Perihelion” is the opposite)
New federal data shows nearly half of the nation’s tap water contains so-called “forever chemicals.” A national study released Tuesday by the U.S. Geological Survey shows that a group of chemicals known as PFAS were commonly found in private wells. The chemicals are commonly used in consumer products and have been linked to cancer, thyroid disease and other illnesses.
Mark Zuckerberg’s answer to Twitter has already pulled in millions of users since it launched Wednesday. Meta’s new social networking app called Threads allows Instagram users to post short updates, links, pictures and videos. Several high profile users were quick to join, including Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez.
UPS and teamsters are still not seeing eye-to-eye in new contract negotiations and a strike could be on the horizon as a result. Company officials and the International Brotherhood of Teamsters have so far this week been unable to come to an agreement after discussing details. A strike has already been authorized if a new deal is not reached by the end of the month. Close to home, local UPS workers say they are willing to strike. Details are available on the website of our news partner, The Batavian. Here is a direct link to the story… 
Extreme heat could cause heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Two suspects are in custody and police are looking for additional suspects following an early morning burglary at a store in Greece. Surveillance video shared by the Greece Police Department appears to show four people climbing over registers just after 4:30 a.m. and attempting to smash items before going into another room. Police said they responded to a business in the 1500 block of West Ridge Road and found a vehicle fleeing, with suspects running from it. Officers caught two suspects, ages 16 and 17, both from Syracuse, after a foot chase. They’re charged with burglary, criminal mischief, criminal possession of burglar tools, petit larceny. Police said the vehicle was reported stolen out of Syracuse. The teens are also charged with criminal possession of stolen property.
According to the Wall Street Journal, Christmas Tree Shops is expected to liquidate all 72 of its remaining stores nationwide unless a buyer can be found within the next week. The news comes after the retailer defaulted on a $45 million loan. The Massachusetts-based chain, which operates a location on Niagara Falls Boulevard in Amherst and in Henrietta on Jefferson and 12 other stores across New York, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in May. There is no word on when the stores could go dark if a new owner does not emerge.
An audit by the Erie County Comptroller’s Office found there is a potential fraud occurring in the Erie County Clerk’s Office, with thousands of dollars unaccounted for and evidence of data manipulation. The Comptroller, Kevin Hardwick, says the audit found cash discrepancies in 28 of the 40 days for records they reviewed from the clerk’s office. They now believe at least $90,000 is unaccounted for, with the potential for a lot more. Hardwick says his office faced unusual delays in its audit while dealing with the clerk’s office, and many of the documents requested were never provided. Multiple agencies are investigating the fraud, including the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, Erie County District Attorney and New York State Comptroller.
Meta is set to launch its Twitter competitor called Threads tomorrow. The release of Threads comes just days after Twitter owner Elon Musk announced new limits on how many posts users can see on Twitter. Social-media veterans believe the planned app will be a formidable competitor for Twitter, which has faced falling revenue and other challenges since Musk took over the company in October.
…In 1946, the bikini bathing suit made it public debut during a fashion show in Paris. It was created by Louis Reard.
The Genesee County Health Department has scheduled another anti-rabies clinic. 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. The next anti-rabies clinic will be at the Genesee County Fairgrounds on Thursday, August 10th from 4:00pm to 6:30pm. (The next one after that will be in the same location on Thursday, October 12th, from 4:00pm to 6:30pm). For more information, visit 
Farmer’s Market Coupons will be distributed courtesy of the Genesee County Office for the Aging starting this Thursday. The coupons provide eligible older adults with an opportunity to access fresh, locally grown produce at participating farmers’ markets in the county. Stop by the Office for the Aging at 2 Bank Street on Thursday from 10:00am to noon. Additional distribution dates include two upcoming Mondays, July 17th from 2:00pm until 4:00pm and July 24th from 10:00am until noon. Coupons will also be available at the following locations and times:
The Buffalo Bills have announced more details about this year’s Return of the Blue and Red night. The team’s annual intra-squad scrimmage at the stadium in Orchard Park will be held Friday, Aug. 4th. Gates open at 4:00pm with practice beginning at 5:30. The scrimmage at the stadium marks a brief respite from the team’s training camp practices at St. John Fisher College in Pittsford. Free tickets for the scrimmage will be available Tuesday, July 11 at 1:00pm. Tickets for open practices at St. John Fisher were made available Monday and were all claimed quickly.
Scientists say time in the early days of the universe moved in slow motion. A study published in the journal Nature Astronomy shows how a team of astronomers studied black holes over time to see how the universe looked like it was speeding up as it aged. The lead study author said in a statement that when the universe was about a billion years old, time appeared to move five times slower. So someone in the “infant universe” would experience one second as one second, but from current times 12 billion years in the future, it seems to drag.
…In 1776, the Declaration of Independence was approved, which marked America’s independence from the British.
Apple is officially the most valuable company in history. On Friday, Apple closed with a record-breaking $3,000,000,000,000 (trillion) market value, up more than 2% from Thursday. The company hit the $1,000,000,000,000 mark in 2018, and became the first ever to cross $2,000,000,000,000 in 2020.
Orleans County legislators have passed a resolution criticizing Governor Kathy Hochul over negotiating in secret with the Seneca Nation to possibly open a new casino in Rochester. County legislators said such negotiations should include public comments and an impact analysis on existing casinos and gaming facilities. Orleans is part of the Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corporation, which operates Batavia Downs. A new casino in Rochester would likely have a negative impact on jobs at Batavia Downs and revenues to 15 counties as well as the cities of Rochester and Buffalo – all with membership stakes in Batavia Downs. The governor and the Seneca Nation are negotiating on renewing a Gaming Compact for the next 20 years. A Rochester casino hasn’t been approved, but many news reports say a Rochester site could be part of the new agreement.
There’s another air quality health advisory in place for the entire state through midnight. The pollutant of concern continues to be particulate matter due to the smoke from Canadian wildfires. If you must spend time outside when the air quality is this unhealthy, the State Department of Health recommends wearing a well-fitting facemask, such as an N95 or KN95. You can check the air quality index anywhere at anytime by entering your zip code at 
Thousands of New Yorkers will be on the roads in the coming days, and the state is making it a bit easier for them to reach their destinations. As of 6:00am tomorrow, temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects will be suspended until 6:00am Wednesday. Drivers are asked to be aware of the possibility that Department of Transportation crews may be out making emergency repairs. For the most up-to-date traffic information, download the free 511NY mobile app.
Governor Hochul has approved a request to raise the maximum age to apply to become a New York State Trooper. Under this change, the age limit is now 34 instead of 29, as it has been in the past. State Police asked for the new rule and say it will allow the agency to recruit a diverse and skilled group of candidates. Anyone who is interested in becoming a Trooper can find out more information at 
A record amount of Americans are expected to travel by car over the Fourth of July weekend. Triple-A projects more than 50,000,000 Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home, which is more than the previous record of 49,000,000 set in 2019. Triple-A also expects the U.S. to hit new records for the number of those traveling by car.
…In 1992, the first pay bathroom opens in New York City — the price is 25 cents.
With the reduced air quality today, the Genesee County Department of Health recommends everyone should limit outdoor activities to reduce exposure. Masks are available to the public during regular business hours while supplies last, at the following locations: The Old Courthouse, 7 Main Street; County Building 2, 3837 West Main Street Road; the Office for the Aging at 2 Bank Street and at the Emergency Management Office, 7690 State Street Road.
The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles has launched a tool to help out people who have moved to the Empire State. Anyone with an out-of-state license can now access the DMV’s online pre-screening service to get assistance with preparing to get their New York license. Customers can find out if they’re eligible to get a New York license and what they need to bring to a DMV office with their application. Drivers with an out-of-state license must exchange it within 30 days of becoming a resident.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Department has issued a warning about an ongoing phone scam. Sheriff’s officials say people have reported receiving calls from an individual claiming to be with the agency and saying they have an active warrant out for their arrest. The scammer then requests money to resolve the warrant. The department says they may contact people to advise them of an outstanding warrant but would never ask for money or payment on the phone. Anyone who receives a call like this should call the Sheriff’s Office at 585-343-5000 for verification.
Members of the Buffalo Bills training staff are going to be honored at the upcoming ESPY Awards in Las Vegas. They’ll be getting the Pat Tillman Award for Service for helping save the life of Bills safety Damar Hamlin. He went into cardiac arrest and collapsed during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals back in January but is already planning to play this upcoming season. The ESPY Awards are taking place on July 12th.
ROADWORK will be completed on the following roads:
…In 1956, the interstate highway system was born with the passage of The Federal Highway Act. The legislation authorized the construction of more than 42,000 miles of freeways from coast to coast.
…In 1998, the National Basketball Association announced it would impose a lockout at a midnight deadline over salary and management issues.
A scam alert to tell you about…The Genesee County Sheriffs Office has become aware of residents receiving phone calls from an individual saying he or she is a Sergeant with the Genesee County Sheriffs Office. The individual then advises them that they have an active warrant out for their arrest and requests money be sent in order to resolve the warrant. This is a scam. Although the Genesee County Sheriffs Office may on occasion contact individuals to advise them that they have a warrant, the Sheriff’s Office will never request that money be sent anywhere to resolve the warrant. The Sheriff’s Office advises you to stay aware of this situation, never send money, gift cards or any other type of payment as a result of a phone call like this. If you receive a phone call from someone you believe is from the Sheriff’s Office advising that you have a warrant and you do not believe a warrant exists, please contact the Sheriff’s Office at (585) 343-5000 to verify.
27-year-old Jacob Patterson of Pembroke has been arrested on active warrants. He was the back seat passenger during a traffic stop but then started to resist and fight Deputies while attempting to take him into custody. Additional investigation revealed a controlled substance was in the vehicle, which Patterson attempted to destroy in an effort to conceal the substance. He was subsequently charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, and resisting and destroying physical evidence. Patterson was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held pending Central Arraignment.
37-year-old Gerald Smith of Batavia has been charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, moving from a lane unsafely, speed not reasonable and prudent and criminal use of drug paraphernalia. Charges came following a one-vehicle accident in the Town of Stafford last Sunday. Smith failed to negotiate a turn and went off the roadway into a wooded area. It’s alleged he was in possession of a quantity of cocaine, scales and bags used to package and sell. Smith was transported to the Genesee County Jail and released with an appearance ticket. He’s scheduled for Stafford Town Court on July 18th. Further charges are pending.
From the Wyoming County Sheriff, we get this report of two neighbors who were in a dispute. Statements were taken from all involved and videos of the incident were reviewed. This resulted in charges against 49-year-old Heather Geoghegan and her husband, 49-year-old Mark Geoghegan, both of Varysburg. Both were charged with disorderly conduct, falsely reporting an incident, and providing a false instrument for filing. An 18-year-old male was also charged with disorderly conduct. All are scheduled to appear in court at a later date.
State education officials have announced the 2023 Food Service Summer Program will be starting soon. Beginning in July, the program will provide free meals to approximately 400,000 kids across the state at locations such as libraries, camps, parks, pools, and schools. This program is considered important because it makes sure children have access to healthy food during summer break. To find a meal site in your area, text the word food to 304-304 or search for one online.
Pickleball injuries are costing Americans nearly $400,000,000 (million). The fast-growing sport is taking a toll on injury-prone senior’s legs, wrists and shoulders. Analysts estimate pickleball injuries will result in 67,000 emergency room visits, 366,000 outpatient visits, and 9000 outpatient surgeries this year. Sports analysts say the number of players will jump to 22,000,000 this year.
More than $200,000,000,000 (billion) in potential COVID relief pandemic funds were lost in fraudulent schemes. A report by the inspector general of the Small Business Administration shows the total adds up to about 17% of the total funds, updated from previous estimates. Nearly $30,000,000,000 of those funds have been reclaimed by the inspector general’s office, the Small Business Administration, Secret Service and other federal agencies, according to the report.
The Genesee County Health Department has scheduled another anti-rabies clinic. 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. The next anti-rabies clinic will be at the Genesee County Fairgrounds on Thursday, August 10th from 4:00pm to 6:30pm. (The next one after that will be in the same location on Thursday, October 12th, from 4:00pm to 6:30pm). For more information, visit 
You can own your own piece of Peanuts history for just under $4,000,000. The former studio of cartoonist Charles Schulz is for sale in Northern California. It sits in the redwoods in Sonoma County. The artist used the space for his studio in the mid-1960s and early 70s. The listing agent says Schulz often entertained friends — including Bob Hope and Robert Mitchum — on the mini golf course, which is decorated with Peanuts references.
The CDC is warning that malaria is spreading locally in the United States. Cases have been seen in Florida and Texas, the first documented cases of local transmission in 20 years. The disease is most commonly spread by mosquitoes but can also be spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants, needle-sharing and from mother to fetus.
…In 2017, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg announced the platform reached two-billion monthly users.
The Powerball jackpot is on the rise again after no one was lucky enough to pick the winning numbers ahead of the most recent drawing. That means the prize up for grabs this evening is now at $440,000,000 (million). There hasn’t been a jackpot winner in more than two months, and the odds of hitting it are more than 1 in 292,000,000. People who want to watch tonight’s drawing can do so by going to 
A Rochester firefighter is facing child pornography charges, according to the U.S. Western District Court of New York. 31-year-old Brett Marrapese of Irondequoit is charged with production, distribution, receipt and possession of child pornography, including some from minors less than 12 years old. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children said it received tips that someone was uploading child pornography online, and when New York State Police began investigating, they found the IP address traced back to an internet service used by the Rochester Fire Department. Troopers interviewed several firefighters between 2016 and 2021, including Marrapese, who both times denied ever viewing the content.
New Yorkers who like to fish can take part in the very popular activity at no cost this weekend. This is the second free fishing weekend of 2023, which means no license is required to participate. Governor Hochul says free fishing days give people the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty that is found in every corner of the state. The other free fishing days this year are September 23rd and November 11th.
US Intelligence agencies are still divided on where COVID-19 came from. On Friday, a new report was released from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence on the origins of the pandemic. Five intelligence agencies, including the National Intelligence Council, believe natural exposure to an infected animal is the most likely cause. However, the FBI and the Department of Energy concluded a laboratory-associated incident was a more likely scenario for the first human infection. The CIA says it was unable to determine the precise origin of the pandemic, as all the theories “rely on significant assumptions” or face “conflicting reporting.”
Two men have been seriously injured in a head-on collision. It happened about 5:30 yesterday afternoon when their pickup trucks collided head-on in the area of 232 Main Road in Pembroke. According to Sheriffs, early indications from investigation suggest that 25-year-old Jacob Brainard of Browmansville was traveling eastbound; while 19-year-old Zachary Miller-Barillari of Williamsville was westbound. Brainard’s vehicle was apparently in the middle of the roadway and tried to correct to get back into his lane of travel. Miller-Barillari drove his pickup truck into the eastbound lane, which resulted in a head-on crash. Both vehicles came to a rest in a ditch and both drivers required extrication from their vehicles. Both men are hospitalized with serious injuries.
Starting next Monday, June 26th, the Genesee County Highway Department will begin a bridge replacement project on Wortendyke Road. This will require a temporary closure for approximately 6 to 8 weeks between South Main Street Road and State Route 33.
The top prize for Mega Millions tonight is $320,000,000 (million). Whoever is lucky enough to win Powerball tomorrow night will get $427,000,000. Both drawings will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.
…In 1960, the first contraceptive pill was made available for purchase in the United States
Fortunately, there’s a happy ending to this next story. But the details are scary. Yesterday afternoon on Jackson Street, a two-year-old child apparently crawled through a second-floor window, onto a first-floor roof but then fell to the ground. According to a witness, the child stood up quickly after falling and started walking. Investigation by law enforcement revealed the incident was an ‘unfortunate accident’ and also quite fortunately, the child was not injured.
The Genesee County Spartans semi-pro football team will be honoring the Batavia Titans this weekend. The Titans won the semi-pro football championship in 1998. At that time, Kenny Mistler was the owner of the team. He and as many of the ‘98 Titans that are available to attend, will be honored at half-time this Saturday evening on the new field at Genesee Community College behind the Call Centre. The game starts at 7:00.
Washington is the most expensive state in the U.S. to buy gas. According to Triple-A, the price for a gallon of regular unleaded is averaging $4.91 statewide. In the Seattle area, prices for regular gas have jumped nearly 75 cents since January.
A new poll is showing an increase of Americans who believe a person’s gender should be determined based on their biological sex. The poll was conducted by NPR, PBS NewsHour and Marist poll. It says 61 percent of Americans define gender as the sex listed on a person’s original birth certificate and is the only way to define if someone is a male or female.
The Writers Guild of America strike show no signs of letting up. The group held a huge rally alongside a number of other unions in Los Angeles Wednesday. The strike against the big Hollywood studios is now in its eighth week with no sign yet of any deal.
…In 1970, then President Richard Nixon signed a bill changing the voting age from 21 to 18. In 2007, Austria became the first member of the European Union to adopt a voting age of 16 for most purposes. The voting age had been reduced in Austria from 19 to 18 at all levels in 1992. At that time a voting age of 16 was proposed by the Green Party, but was not adopted.
Batavia Police are looking for information about a suspect who broke into two cars during the Muckdogs game on Monday night at Dwyer Stadium. The suspect smashed windows and stole wallets and then used credit cards at local businesses. The person of interest in the investigation was caught on security cameras at those businesses. Anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Austin Davis at (585)345-6350, or the Batavia Police Department’s confidential tip line at (585)345-6370.
Members of the New York State Assembly will be back at the State Capitol once again today to finish up their special session. Lawmakers did approve some legislation yesterday, including a bill that’d put an end to non-compete clauses in employment contracts. Another measure was also passed that’d prohibit credit reporting agencies from collecting medical debt. Both of those bills now head to Governor Hochul’s desk but there’s no word yet if she’ll sign them.
…In 1989, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled burning the American flag as a form of political protest is protected by the First Amendment.
