Local News

Batavia Police are looking for information about a suspect who broke into cars during the Muckdogs game on Monday night at Dwyer Stadium.  The suspect stole wallets and 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.

The National Transportation Safety Board has released its preliminary investigation report on two deadly plane crashes that occurred in Western New York.  The first crash was on May 28th.  According to witnesses a Luce Buttercup aircraft began shedding parts and then the wings fell off before it crashed into a field near Lyndonville.  70-year-old Earl J. Luce Jr of Brockport and 72-year-old Morris Wortman of Rochester were killed in the crash.  The second was on June 6th near Jamestown.  A Cirrus SR22t on an instructional flight went down after an attempted landing where it failed to land and then deployed its parachute at about 200 feet and then crashed into some woods and caught fire.  52-year-old Roger Jay Ryall of Toronto, Canada and 52-year-old David J Hughes of British Columbia were killed.  The NTSB has not released any information on a crash on June 11th near Porter.

Police have identified the man shot and killed in a Charlotte neighborhood Monday afternoon.  Officers said they responded to the area of Lake Avenue and Burley Road around 12:15 p.m., for the report of a despondent man walking around threatening to hurt his children’s mother. Shortly after, more calls came in for a fight on Harding Road, with a person shot there.  Once at the scene, police said they found Dante Edwards-Morrison, 30, who was shot once and pronounced dead at the scene. Officers detained one person at the scene who was in possession of a legally-registered handgun.  Investigators determined Edwards-Morrison walked to the address on Harding Road and confronted his children’s mothers and others. An argument followed, during which he was fatally shot.  Police said no charges have been filed against the person detained at the scene, as the investigation continues.

Join Wilmot Cancer Institute at our Survivors Night to celebrate cancer survivorship on Saturday, June 24, at 6:35 p.m. (game time) at Dwyer Stadium, 299 Bank St., Batavia.  The event will feature the Batavia Muckdogs playing against Elmira Pioneers, fireworks and a ceremony honoring cancer survivors.  Survivors receive 1 free game ticket (each additional ticket $10).  Call the Muckdogs Box Office to purchase at 585-524-2260. Must be purchased prior to game day.  Cancer survivors are invited to arrive by 6 p.m. to join in the on-field celebration.

The Buffalo Sabres announced Tuesday afternoon that they’ve reached an agreement with forward and alternate captain Zemgus Girgensons. The deal is valued at $2.5 million dollars.  Girgensons was set to become an unrestricted free agent but has struck a deal with Buffalo that will keep in Western New York for the 2023-2024 season.  Girgensons is the longest tenured player on the Sabres roster. And in the 2022-2023 season he amassed 18 points while playing a vital role in the line primarily composed of himself, captain Kyle Okposo and Peyton Krebs.  That would not be the only move the Sabres made today. As forward Lukas Rousek and the team agreed to a two-year deal worth an AAV of $775,000.

The Batavia Muckdogs battled the Newark Pilots Monday night at Dwyer Stadium.  They came back from a 3 run deficit to win 6-5.  At 8-5, the Muckdogs are in third place in the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League’s Western Division, a half-game behind Niagara and Elmira.  The next home game is June 22 against Jamestown.

19-year-old Zoro Reisman of Batavia has been arrested. He faces charges of robbery, grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property (credit card) and petit larceny. It’s alleged that Reisman forcibly took the victim’s wallet from her hands and ran. He was brought to Genesee County Jail where he is being held pending his CAP Court arraignment.

New York State Police have arrested 29-year-old Fnu Raine of Medina for sex crimes against children. This followed an investigation in the town of Shelby that determined he possessed child pornography. Raine is charged with 10 counts of possessing a sexual performance by a child. He was issued appearance tickets and is scheduled to return to the Town of Shelby Court in August.

Members of the New York State Assembly are going to be back at the State Capitol in Albany today for a special session. Lawmakers will be voting on bills that they did not get to decide the fate of before this year’s legislative session ended earlier this month. Among the measures they might take up include a proposal to establish the statewide regulation of short-term rentals and a bill that’d provide early parole for some incarcerated individuals 55 and older. The Senate isn’t expected to return until January.

Undated file photo

No injuries have been reported after a train goes off the tracks in Darien and Corfu. The derailment happened early in the afternoon yesterday in the area of the Fargo Road railroad crossing in Corfu. The county fire coordinator says four cars carrying mostly empty tractor-trailers were involved in the incident that may have been caused by a mechanical problem. No hazardous materials or chemical spills occurred. It’s expected that the crossings between Snipery Road and Townline Road are going to be closed down for a couple of days. Photo: CSX website

Senator Schumer speaking yesterday. Photo: 13WHAM

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is making a push for the region to become the center of the country’s very first green hydrogen hub. The New York Democrat made an appearance at the Plug Power gigafactory that’s located in Henrietta yesterday. Schumer says over one point-two-billion-dollars from the Department of Energy would be used towards creating regional hydrogen hubs in places such as the Finger Lakes. He called Plug Power a prime example of green energy production.

Kensington Expressway

Two meetings are going to be taking place today to discuss the future of the Kensington Expressway project in Buffalo. They’ll be happening from 11:00am until 2:00pm and 5:00pm until 8:00pm at the Buffalo Museum of Science which is on Humboldt Parkway. The goal of this project is to help reconnect areas that were split up by the highway years ago. The meetings will give residents the chance to hear from project leaders, allow them to provide feedback and get their questions answered.

The Muckdogs won their game last night after coming back from a first inning, 3 run deficit against the Newark Pilots; the final score was 6-5. Tonight they play in Elmira and then it’s a 3-game series against the Tarp Skunks that starts with a double-header in Jamestown tomorrow. The ‘Dogs return home Thursday for game 3; they’ll take the field at 6:35. Photo: 13WHAM

The Genesee County Spartans semi-pro football team will be honoring the Batavia Titans, who 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 1998 Titans that are available to attend, will be honored at half-time this Saturday evening on the new field at G.C.C. behind the Call Centre. The game starts at 7:00.

ELSEWHERE…

A look inside; this is the now missing submersible. Looks like very tight quarters, especially for 5 people.

A Long Island-based crew has joined the search for the missing submersible at the site of the Titanic wreckage. An HC-130J aircraft, carrying a team from the 106th Rescue Wing New York National Guard unit based in Westhampton reached the search area Monday. Newsday reports it’s got six crew on board: one combat rescue officer, four parachute jumpers and two crew chiefs. The 106th first got the call from the Coast Guard around 10 a.m. Monday. Their first flight, loaded with water rescue gear, took off five hours later.  NBC Photo.

Max Park

A 21-year-old California man is celebrating his tenth Guinness World Record. He solved a Rubik’s Cube in the fastest time ever — only 3.23 seconds. Max Park won his first cubing competition at age ten against graduates from MIT and CalTech. He started working the puzzle as therapy after being diagnosed with autism. Rubik’s shared a video of the feat on Instagram, calling it “mind blowing.”

Obviously, a morning person.

Research shows morning people tend to live longer than night owls. But a new report suggests that may have less to do with sleep and more to do with what happens when you’re awake. Finnish researchers analyzed data from more than 20,000 people who took a survey in 1981 about their sleep habits, according to the study published last week in the peer-reviewed journal Chronobiology International. They discovered mortality risk in night owls was not because of lack of sleep but mainly tied to smoking and alcohol. Deaths from alcohol-related diseases and poisonings were seen more often in the evening type group. The study doesn’t explain why night owls were more likely to drink and smoke. But Jennifer Martin, professor of medicine at UCLA and former president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, who was not involved in the study, suggests it may have something to do with what establishments are typically open late at night.

A new study shows heavy drinkers can’t exactly “hold their liquor.” Instead, the University of Chicago study says those with alcohol use disorder, what used to be called alcoholism, tested significantly impaired on typical habits three hours after having a drink. A coauthor of the study said it’s a “popular perception that experienced drinkers can handle their liquor – like two cowboys in a bar in a drinking competition.” Yet the senior author said only about 10-percent of those with alcohol use disorder go into treatment, and added that binge drinking is on the rise.

The Mega Millions jackpot continues to grow and that means there’s going to be a big prize up for grabs tonight. Whoever picks the winning numbers for this evening’s drawing will receive at least $300,000,000 (million). The last time the jackpot was claimed was back in April when someone in East Syracuse won $20,000,000. The drawing will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

Today is Tuesday, June 20th, the 171st day of the year.

June 20 in history…

The 1782 Great Seal of the United States

…In 1782, the Great Seal of the United States was adopted by Congress. The seal consists of an eagle, an olive branch, and 13 arrows. It is still used today.

What do you think?

…In 1893, a New Bedford, Massachusetts jury found Lizzie Borden innocent of the ax murders of her parents.

Muhammad Ali being escorted into court following his arrest.

…In 1967, refusing to be drafted, Muhammad Ali was convicted in Houston of violating Selective Service laws. He was sentenced to five years but remained free on $5000 bail. The guilty verdict was later overturned by the Supreme Court.

O.J. Simpson in court to plead his innocence.

…In 1994, O.J. Simpson pled innocent to the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman in Los Angeles.

Dan Rather on his last day on-air at CBS News.

…In 2006, in an unceremonious and controversial move, CBS network president announced that veteran news anchor Dan Rather would be leaving the company after 44 years. Sometime, when you have a few minutes, do a Google search of “Dan Rather and What’s The Frequency, Kenneth” (the latter being an R.E.M. song). Here are the basics of the story:

The title of the song is a reference to an incident that occurred in 1986 when CBS Evening News anchor Dan Rather was walking to his apartment in Manhattan one night when he was attacked by two men on Park Avenue, with one of the men repeating, “Kenneth, what is the frequency?”

Rather, at the time noted, “I got mugged. Who understands these things? I didn’t and I don’t now. I didn’t make a lot of it at the time and I don’t now. I wish I knew who did it and why, but I have no idea.”

It was such a weird story that people doubted Rather’s account (it wouldn’t have been the first or last time a celebrity invented an attack for publicity or to disguise the real reason for an attack), but in this instance, a doorman and a building supervisor at a nearby building who ran to Rather’s aid confirmed the newsman’s story, so it just became this weird piece of pop culture, leading to R.E.M using it as the song title.

Rather even performed the song with the band for a comedy bit for David Letterman’s The Late Show.

However, things got a whole lot darker when a man named William Tager was arrested in 1994 for killing a The Today Show stagehand named Campbell Montgomery as part of an attempt to discover what the frequency that NBC was using to beam signals into his brain, which apparently was also his motivation for attacking Rather.

Tager was never charged with Rather’s attack (and he was paroled in 2010 from his killing of Montgomery), but New York District Attorney Robert M. Morgenthau said “William Tager’s identity as the man who attacked Mr. Rather was established in the course of an investigation by my office.”

Over a dozen cars were broken into overnight in Rochester.  Broken glass coated seats and pavement as residents woke to find windows busted out of cars on Boardman and Berkeley Streets.  Several people who had their cars broken into said there was nothing stolen as they had heeded police advice and left nothing of value in their cars.  This string of break-ins come less than a week from when 50 cars were broken into across the city.

3 people were shot in Rochester overnight between Sunday and Monday.  The first was a 17 year old girl who was shot on Clifford Ave near Portland around 1am.  She is being treated and is expected to survive.  Around 2am police responded to another shooting on North Clinton where a 52 year old woman and a 30 year old woman were both shot and a 23 year old man walked to the hospital with an injury but no gunshot wounds.  Police think a verbal argument may have preceded the shots being fired.  No one is in custody for any of these incidents.

Just before noon on Monday a train derailed in the area of Darien and Corfu.  The train was headed westbound when a mechanical malfunction in components of the train or rail caused over 60 cars to slip off the tracks.  Some trailers slid off the cars they were on.  CSX investigators say that almost all the cars were empty.  Both east and westbound rail lines will be closed for several days.  CSX will inspect and repair affected sections of the rails.  No one was injured and there were no hazardous materials or chemicals involved.  

Genesee Country Village Museum is having a concert series starting this Friday on the Great Meadow at Sunset.  There will be seating available or you can bring your own or a blanket to sit on the lawn. This Friday the Skycats will be performing.  Friday July 28th will feature the Heatwave Bluegrass.  August 11th the Gateswingers will perform and August 18th A Girl Named Genny will finish out the concert series.  Music starts at 5:30 and ends around 8:30.  The meadow is picnic and dog friendly and food and drinks will be served till 8.  Tickets can be bought online at Genesee Country Village Museum’s website.

Lollipop Farm in Rochester will break ground on a 20 million dollar expansion project on Thursday.  Lollypop said the added space will be critical in addressing the growing number of animals being brought in. It hopes the move will turn the organization into the region’s foremost animal welfare and education center.  The farm rescued nearly 800 neglected animals last year.  

The CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival kicks off Friday.  Ticket holders can pick up their club passes.  The ticket shop is at East Avenue and Gibbs Street, and will be open until 5 p.m. every day through Thursday. It will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday.  Check out Rochesterjazz.com for information on tickets, the lineup, and news. 

Molly Kibler

Havanah

Dahlia Klink (right)

Three people have been killed following a head-on crash in Cattaraugus County. State Police say that 21-year-old Evan Klink was traveling on Freedom Road in Freedom Saturday and intentionally drove his vehicle into a vehicle driven by his sister, 24-year-old Dahlia Klink. She lost her life, as did a 17-year-old girl and a six-year-old girl in her vehicle. A four-year-old passenger in Dahlia Klink’s vehicle and a 19-year-old in Evan Klink’s vehicle were also hurt. The investigation into the incident is ongoing. Photos are from GoFundMe pages; the three links are provided below for anyone wishing to donate to assist the families:

https://gofund.me/8ca17d45

https://gofund.me/c556c51d

https://gofund.me/8aa69d5c

Early this afternoon, there was a train derailment in Darien at the Fargo and Countyline Road crossing. According to State Police, 60 cars derailed due to an apparent equipment failure. At least four cars came off the tracks, with no injuries, and no hazardous materials involved. Most of the cars were empty.

FROM THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE: 39-year-old Lee Baxter of Batavia has been arrested. He’s charged with grand larceny after stealing an electric bicycle from a residence in the Town of Batavia. Baxter was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia Town Court early next month. ALSO: 41-year-old Sarah Malone of Bethany has been arrested and charged with criminal obstruction of breathing, endangering the welfare of a child and harassment. It’s alleged she punched and choked the victim in front of a juvenile. Malone was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held pending CAP Court Arraignment.

Darien Lake Amphitheater – file photo

Four people are facing charges after being arrested at the Luke Bryan show at the Darien Lake Amphitheater. A 21-year-old spit on a security guard during Friday’s concert and knocked over a fence before threatening security in the parking lot. An 18-year-old also jumped a fence to get in the venue, a 22-year-old returned to the facility after being ejected and told not to come back and a 27-year-old punched someone in the face. All of the individuals are expected to be in court next month.

According to Triple A this morning, the national average price for a gallon of regular gas is now $3.58. The state average is $3.69. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.64; that’s up a penny from a month ago and down $1.25 from a year ago today. There are indications suggestive of a recent decrease in demand and domestic gasoline stocks are rising slightly. OPEC is still threatening to lower production but so far that hasn’t affected the price of gasoline much.

File photo of sunset at Durand Eastman Beach

An investigation remains underway into what caused a weekend drowning at Rochester’s Durand Eastman Beach. The individual disappeared in the water off Lakeshore Boulevard Saturday and their body was recovered hours later. The name of the person who lost their life has not been released yet. Anyone who has information on this incident is asked to reach out to police.

Unidentified boaters in an undated photo, Lake Ontario.

With boaters heading out on their vessels during the summer months, an initiative will be underway to keep them safe while they’re on the water. New York State is taking part in the Operation Dry Water campaign. Law enforcement will be educating people about the dangers of boating while under the influence of alcohol and drugs. The state is also working on phasing in Brianna’s Law, which will require all motorized watercraft operators to complete a state-approved boater safety course.

The Muckdogs swept the Auburn Doubledays in Friday night’s doubleheader. They then went on to win one and lose one against them in Auburn on Saturday. Sunday the Muckdogs were at Niagara University where the Niagara Power beat them 4 to 2. The Muckdogs are back in action tonight at Dwyer Stadium as they host the Newark Pilots at 6:35 as they hope to improve their current 7 and 5 record with another win.

ELSEWHERE…

Please play responsibly.

No one has won the Powerball jackpot in two months, but lottery players are hoping luck is on their side tonight. The top prize up for grabs in this evening’s drawing is $380,000,000 (million) since the six winning numbers were not picked on Saturday. The odds of hitting the Powerball jackpot are one in over 292-million. The drawing will be streamed live at Powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

The 13th World Naked Bike Ride returned to Wisconsin on Saturday. The annual event in Madison is meant to promote body positive image and independence from fossil fuels. Organizers said the theme of the ride was “Bare as You Dare.” Most riders were completely nude, with the exception of shoes and bike helmets.

Wyndham Clark

Golfer Wyndham Clark is celebrating his first major championship. Clark finished atop the leader board Sunday at Los Angeles Country Club at ten under par to win the U.S Open. The 29-year-old earns his second victory in his 137th PGA Tour start, after winning the 2023 Wells Fargo Championship.

Unidentified UPS driver in undated file photo.

Union UPS drivers could be going on strike soon. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters and UPS officials say it could start by August 1st unless a deal is reached. It would be a huge disruption to the economy this summer as it’s the largest strike in 26 years.

Today is Monday, June 19th, the 170th day of the year.

June 19 in history…

Currier & Ives depiction of the first baseball game in Hoboken, NJ

…In 1846, the first organized baseball game was played in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Undated file photo; the description reports that these people are former slaves and from a few related families in Texas

…In 1862, slavery was outlawed in U.S. territories.

Painting titled “A Ride For Liberty,” circa 1862 by Eastman Johnson

…In 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger landed in Galveston, Texas with the news that the Civil War had ended and that those who were enslaved were now free. The news came two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, which was met with resistance in Texas. The date is now known as Juneteenth or Emancipation Day.

…In 1910, Father’s Day was celebrated for the first time in the state of Washington. The nationwide holiday was not made official until 1972.

Early logo of the Federal Communications Commission

…In 1934, Congress established the Federal Communications Commission to regulate radio and, later, television.

Ethel and Julius Rosenberg

…In 1953, Ethel and Julius Rosenberg were the first U.S. civilians executed. They were convicted of espionage having passed secret radar, jet, and nuclear information to the Soviet Union.

After the State Assembly decided to put the casino deal on hold because of protests by Rochester city leaders and community members, the Seneca Nation put out a statement.  They said that the reason for Rochester officials being left out of discussions on putting a new casino in downtown Rochester lies completely with governor Hochul.  According to the press release Governor Hochul and the Seneca Nation have been negotiating for 11 months.  No one in Rochester or the surrounding areas was informed that a casino was being planned for the city.  When it was announced last week it drew instant condemnation.   Hochul declared that there were non disclosure agreements in place so she hadn’t been able to make the plans public.  The Seneca Nation says there were no such agreements.  They also said that Delaware North, which owns Finger Lakes Gaming and Hamburg Gaming, was being benefited by the deal not going through and that meant Hochul was prioritizing special interests over the Seneca Nation.

New York State Attorney General Letitia James attended the Juneteenth Freedom Day event on Saturday Afternoon in Williams Park.  The celebration had vendors, live music, a chicken bbq, spoken word performances, African drums and African dancers.  James said she heard of Just Kings, a grassroots group of black men with a mission to give back to the community through Christmas toy drives, school supply backpack giveaways, chicken barbecue fundraisers and the Juneteenth event.  She said that the group were examples of Faith, Family and community.  Event organizers said that this year’s event was better attended than previous years.

3 people have died from a car crash in Freedom Saturday.  According to State Police the crash involved siblings driving in opposite directions.  21 year old Evan Klink was driving a pickup truck on Freedom road when he crossed the center line and hit a Ford Focus being driven by his sister, 24 year old Dahlia Klink head on.  Dahlia and a 4 year old passenger were taken to the hospital with serious injuries, Dahlia died at ECMC, 2 other passengers in the car, 6 year old Molly Kibler and 17 year old Havanah Lopez were pronounced dead at the scene.  Evan was treated for minor injuries at the scene while his passenger, 19 year old Cameron Klink was taken to ECMC with serious injuries.  Police say this crash is still under investigation.

Gas prices in Batavia are down a couple pennies this week according to AAA.  The current average for a gallon of regular gas is 3.64 which is 2 cents lower than a week ago.  The New York Average is holding steady at 3.69 which is up 4 cents from a week ago and down a dollar 30 from this time last year.  The national average is 3.57 which is down 2 cents from last week.  There is a decrease in demand and domestic gasoline stocks are rising slightly.  OPEC is still threatening to lower production but so far that hasn’t affected the price of gasoline much.  

The Batavia Concert Band will be returning for their 99th season of public concerts in Batavia’s Centennial Park this summer.  Concerts will be held on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. on June 28, July 5, July 12, July 19, July 26, Aug. 2 and Aug. 9.  The Band consists of 45-55 brass, woodwind and percussion players ranging from talented high school students to 60-year veterans.  Returning for his tenth season as conductor is John Bailey, Instrumental Music teacher at Pembroke Central School District and the organization is under the leadership of General Manager Jason Smith, along with a group of officers and a dedicated Board, led by Board President Dan Fischer.  Be on the lookout for appearances by band members on WBTA’s “Main & Center” program, where we will go into some depth about the band’s makeup and its history. Also, be listening for weekly radio ads promoting the musical selections for the upcoming concerts, and announcing weekly sponsors.

The Muckdogs swept the Auburn Doubledays on Friday night in a doubleheader victory.  They then went on to win one lose one against them in Auburn on Saturday.  Sunday the Muckdogs were at Niagara University to play the Niagara Power.  Niagara Power beat the Muckdogs 4 to 2.  The Muckdogs will be back home tonight to go against the Newark Pilots at 6:35.  Currently the Muckdogs are 7 wins and 5 losses on the season.

Protesters in Rochester gathered at the Liberty Pole Plaza on Friday to voice their opinions and disapproval of the casino planned for downtown Rochester.  They say that the casino, which Seneca Nation has been in talks with Governor Hochul and her administration on, would negatively affect the area and cost jobs at other gambling installations.  They also protested that Hochul has left Rochester officials and community members out of the discussions which have an impact on their municipalities.  The protest was joined by lawmakers and representatives from Western Region Off Track Betting and Finger Lakes Gaming.

49 asylum seekers speaking 12 different languages have arrived in Buffalo from out of New York City.  They were received off two buses by Jericho Road Community Health Center, a resettlement agency that is contracting with New York City to conduct new arrival intakes and provide other supportive services.  New York City has committed to funding the migrants’ housing at an undisclosed hotel, along with food, basic needs, and case management services for up to four months.  Jericho and other agencies say they have been doing this for 20 years.  Buffalo is home to over 12,000 refugees from countries such as Afghanistan, Congo, Ecuador, Somalia, Ukraine and many others.  

After an incident at the Lockport Underground Canal Tour left one dead and several injured when a boat capsized Governor Hochul is taking action.  As part of the discussion about the accident it was discovered that there are no inspection or registration agencies in charge of these types of attractions.  Hochul is proposing that the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation take oversight authority to prevent future tragedies.  

The second annual UMMC Lemonade Stand in Centennial Park was held on Thursday evening. 11 kids and their families participated in the event by setting up stands that could be as simple as a folding table or as complicated as a full wooden bar.  The goal was to raise $15,000 to purchase Heart Failure Care Kits for UMMC patients. The kits have proven to reduce readmissions by up to 73%.  The event was created last year by young volunteers in the community who wanted to help the Rochester Regional Health UMMC Foundation and help the community.  You can still donate to the cause even if you couldn’t get some ice cold lemonade on thursday.  Follow the link at wbtai.com.

https://justgiving.com/campaign/ummclemonade

Madeline Bartz

Make plans to attend the Interactive Health Fair tomorrow at 80 Union Street with art projects, information to improve wellness, a teddy bear clinic, free vision screening and vouchers for chicken bar-b-q dinners. The fair is sponsored by Batavia Community Schools along with the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Genesee County and Madeline Bartz Mission, Incorporated. Busses will be running from 8:45 to 12:30 from multiple locations around the city.

File photo of Payton Gendron during sentencing.

A judge wants federal prosecutors to make a decision soon if they’re going to be seeking the death penalty against Payton Gendron. Gendron is the man who opened fire at a Tops store on Jefferson Avenue in Buffalo last May, killing ten people and wounding three others. Federal prosecutors claim the next steps in the death penalty process will happen shortly and say discussions have involved the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Civil Rights Division. Gendron is already serving a life sentence on state charges.

A Rochester firefighter has been suspended following a search of a firehouse by the FBI. Investigators were at the Rochester Fire Department Engine Number Three building on Emerson Street on Tuesday. According to 13WHAM, electronics and a computer ended up being removed from the property. The firefighter is suspended with pay, but no charges have been filed against him.

The New York State Attorney General’s Office is making its election protection hotline available during the June primaries. Voters will be able to call during the early voting period, which starts tomorrow and runs through June 25th. The hotline will be open from 9:00am until 6:00pm to help voters troubleshoot issues they may be facing whether they’re voting in-person or using an absentee ballot. Primary Day itself is coming up on Tuesday, June 27th.

Aftermath of the Kensington Expressway fatal accident.

The teenage driver who was involved in a fatal crash with a stolen vehicle has pleaded guilty to multiple charges. The 16-year-old was traveling on the Kensington Expressway in Buffalo last year when they crashed near the Scajaquada Expressway. Five individuals in the vehicle were ejected, and four of them ended up losing their lives. The teen is facing prison time when they return to court in August.

Dr. James Sunser

After more than a decade of leadership and service to the institution, Genesee Community College President, Dr. James Sunser, announced that he intends to retire at the conclusion of the 2023-24 academic year. Sunser informed the campus community and thanked colleagues for being partners in always holding student success as the highest priority. During his time leading GCC, Sunser oversaw the development of the Richard C. Call Arena and the Student Success Center, capital projects that represented the largest fundraising efforts ever undertaken by the College. He also provided leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic that drastically altered the delivery of services, never wavering from the commitment to putting students first.

Unidentified people celebrating Juneteenth 2020 in Rochester.

Juneteenth is coming up on Monday, and the Western New York region is going to be celebrating the holiday today and tomorrow. The festivities begin today in Brighton with an event at the town hall there that starts at noon. Tomorrow, the Rochester Juneteenth Festival is taking place from 11:00am until 8:30pm at Martin Luther King Junior Park and there’s no cost to attend. The Town of Irondequoit also hosts a Juneteenth event tomorrow from noon until 4:00pm at town hall.

After two games got postponed, the Muckdogs pulled out a win against the Jamestown Tarp Skunks last night; the final score was 3-2. They’ll play two doubleheaders this weekend to make up some games against the Auburn Doubledays. They’re at home tonight with the first game starting at 5:00. Tomorrow night they’ll be in Auburn. And then on Sunday, they’re back at Dwyer to host the Niagara Power. Game time is 4:05.

The Genesee County Spartans take the field Saturday night against the Ithaca Warriors with kickoff set for 7:00 at Genesee Community College. They’re coming off a shut-out loss last weekend at Lockport (28-0). Head Coach Harry Rascoe believes the score is misleading because the Spartans were competitive. Admission for this weekend’ game is $5 per person with children under 12 admitted free. The contest has been designated as Dan’s Tire and Auto Night.

If your home was built before 1978, it’s more likely to have lead-based paint that can be disturbed when renovating. This could put lead dust into the air as well as into heating and cooling systems. Anyone exposed to lead dusk is at risk of lead poisoning and there is no safe level of lead to have in your body. The Genesee County Health Department has provided steps to help keep your home renovation safe.

Here are some simple steps you can take to keep both you and your family safe.

1. Set up safely in a way that should prevent dust from escaping the work area and keep anyone not working on the project from entering. This can include removing all furniture, rugs, curtains, and other household items, tightly wrapping items that cannot be removed with plastic sheeting, covering floors with plastic sheeting, closing and sealing all doors, turning off forced-air heating and air conditioning systems, and covering vents with sheeting. All sheeting should be taped in place to ensure it is secure.

2. Protect yourself. Wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) when working, wash your hands and face every time you stop working, wash your work clothes separately from the rest of your family’s laundry, and do not eat, drink, or smoke in your work area. Dust and debris can contaminate food or other items and cause you to ingest dangerous lead dust.

3. Minimize Dust. Many renovation tasks (drilling, cutting, opening walls, etc.) create dust that may contain lead. Using proper tools and simple practices can help limit and control the dust.

4. Clean your work area at the end of every day. This helps minimize dust and protects you and your family. Easy ways to keep your work area clean include; putting trash in heavy-duty bags as you work, vacuuming with a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) cleaner frequently, cleaning tools daily, disposing of or cleaning PPE, and keeping non-workers out of the work area.

5. Control Waste. Collect all waste and secure it tightly with duct tape or a double bag to prevent lead dust or debris from escaping before disposal.

6. Clean again. When your renovations are complete and before using the room again, use wet-cleaning methods in order to control the dust and prevent the dust from going back into the air. Make sure to mop uncarpeted floors thoroughly, clean walls with a HEPA vacuum or damp cloth, thoroughly vacuum all remaining surfaces and objects with a HEPA vacuum and then wipe down all surfaces with wet cloths until the cloths are clean.

For any questions and more information on GO Health Lead Programs, contact the Genesee County Health Department at (585) 344-2580 ext. 5555 or Health.GOlead@co.genesee.ny.us. You can also visit the GO Health website at www.GOHealthNY.org.

ELSEWHERE…

The 2 pound kidney stone…WHOA!

A kidney stone larger than a baseball was removed from a patient in Sri Lanka. Doctors said the stone was over five-inches long and weighed nearly two-pounds. Guinness World Records confirmed the kidney stone is the largest and heaviest ever extracted through surgery.

Heinz is releasing sauce packets custom-designed for each state. Dubbed Saucemerica, the condiment packets are limited edition and will be available at restaurants or anywhere else that typically has the packets. They’ll be the classic ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, BBQ, ranch and tartar sauces. For example, Texas’s packet is barbecue sauce, Colorado’s is ketchup to go with the state’s famous bison burger, and Florida’s is mustard to pair with a Cuban sandwich.

Pope Francis leaving the hospital.

Pope Francis has returned to the Vatican after being discharged from Rome’s Gemelli hospital. The 86-year-old pope was recovering from abdominal surgery, and left the hospital in a wheelchair today. On his way out, he spoke with well-wishers and medical staff who had gathered at the entrance to say goodbye.

 Unidentified couple enjoying a day at the beach.

The average balance in 401k plans is down almost $30,000 since 2021. A new report from Vanguard shows the 20% drop sitting under $113,000 in 2022, with 1 in 3 account holders having a balance of less than $10,000. It said the drop could be due to “market performance and an evolving participant base.”

Scientists say a key building block of life has been found on one of the moons of Saturn. New research published Wednesday says NASA scientists gathered data from the Cassini mission that studied Saturn and its moons from 2004 to 2017, and have discovered phosphorus on the moon Enceladus. The lead author of the study says phosphorus is vital for all life on Earth and is essential for the creation of DNA, and has been discovered in an ocean that lies beneath the icy surface of Enceladus.

Today is Friday, June 16th, the 167th day of the year.

June 16 in history…

Roller coaster at Coney Island.

…In 1884, the first roller coaster in the U.S. was operational at Coney Island in New York. Passengers seated sideways rode a train on undulating tracks over a wooden structure 600 feet long. The train started at a height of 50 feet on one end and ran downhill by gravity until its momentum died. Passengers left the train and attendants pushed the cars over a switch to a higher level. The passengers then returned to their seats and rode back to the original starting point. Admission was 5 cents and the owner, Lamarcus Thompson grossed an average of $600 per day.

…In 1903, the Ford Motor Company was incorporated.

Pepsi-Cola ad from 1903.

…Also in 1903, Pepsi-Cola Company registers Pepsi-Cola with the United States Patent Office. From an ad published that same year: “Do you feel tired and out of sorts? Got the “blues” or nervous? Drink Pepsi-Cola at all soda fountains, cost you 5 cents, and put new life into your old bones.”

Brian Piccolo

…In 1970, Chicago Bears football player Brian Piccolo died with his best friend Gale Sayers at his side. Piccolo’s story was recounted in the film “Brian’s Song.”

…In 1998, a 40-year-old Florida woman, identified only as Elizabeth, gave birth to a baby boy live on the Internet. It was the first-ever live birth on the Internet. An estimated 2,000,000 (million) people watched the event.

…In 2016, Philadelphia made history for being the first big city in America to approve a tax on sugary drinks. The city council overwhelmingly approved a 1.5% per-ounce tax on sugary drinks.

After more than a decade of leadership and service to the institution, Genesee Community College President, Dr. James Sunser, announced that he intends to retire at the conclusion of the 2023-24 academic year.  In a personal message, Sunser informed the campus community and thanked colleagues for being partners in always holding student success as the highest priority.  During his time leading GCC, Sunser oversaw the development of the Richard C. Call Arena and the Student Success Center, capital projects that represented the largest fundraising efforts ever undertaken by the College. He also provided leadership during the  COVID-19 pandemic that drastically altered the delivery of services, never wavering from the commitment to putting students first.

Rochester Mayor Malik Evans has announced the launch of a new initiative that will give out free money to residents. The Guaranteed Basic Income program will provide monthly payments of 500-dollars to 351 households for one year. There are no work requirements and no restrictions on what the money can be used for.  Evans said that the program will allow families to thrive and create prosperity. Applicants must be age 18 or older, a city resident for at least year, must have a household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty level, and must live in a qualified census tract. One individual per household can participate.  The application period begins next Thursday and will be open through June 29th. Information about the program can be found on rocgbi.com.  Funding for the program comes from the American Rescue Plan Act.

Failure to stop at a red light cause for collision on Ellicott Street.  An HHR and a silver sedan collided on Ellicott Street Thursday afternoon at the intersection with Liberty street.  It was determined from the street camera that the sedan ran the red light and struck the HHR.  Early eye witness statements said it happened the other way around.  The driver of the sedan, Edwin Perez of Holley, was cited for allegedly running a red light.  It is unknown whether anyone was injured in the crash.

A driver from Warsaw was arrested in the Town of Wethersfield for DWI after he drove his pickup truck with no tires and then left it in the middle of the road.  41 year old Trevor Austin was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the 1st degree, driving with a blood alcohol of .18% or greater, failure to keep right, moving from a lane unsafely, stop stand or park on the pavement and unsafe tires. Officers responded to a report of a pickup truck parked in the middle of the road at around 5 in the morning on June 11th and a driver who was intoxicated.  When they arrived the noted gouge marks on the pavement and flat rear tires and missing front tires.  Austin was sitting on the side of the road.  Upon investigating they found that Austin had a suspended license from a previous DWI incident.  Police followed the gouge marks back up the road for 10 miles and located the missing tires.

Dozens of United State Flags were respectfully retired at a ceremony at VFW Post 1602 Veness-Strollo in Batavia on Flag Day.  The flags were incinerated by veterans and firefighters.  According to US Flag Code: a flag that is torn or faded should be disposed of in a dignified manner, the preferred manner is incineration.  Flags that are no longer serviceable should no longer be displayed.  The ceremony was carried out by Vice Commander William Frieday, Robert Kendall, treasurer, and member Ronald Gibson.

Saturday the Interactive Health Fair will be at 80 Union Street with art projects, information to improve wellness, a teddy bear clinic, free vision screening and vouchers for chicken bbq dinners.  This fair is sponsored by the Batavia community Schools along with the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Genesee County and Madeline Bartz Mission Inc.  Busses will be running from 8:45 to 12:30 from multiple locations around the city.  For a complete bus schedule you can check wbtai.com.

The Batavia police department is once again asking for your assistance as they try to locate two people of interest in a stolen credit card scheme. They are asking for the public’s help in identifying 2 people photographed by security cameras leaving Target on Veterans Memorial Drive in Batavia. If anyone knows who they are please contact the investigating detective at (585) 345-6357.

From the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and arrested by Sheriffs are:

Kiara A. Bates, age 31 of Agnes Street, Rochester, NY
Jayona D. Henderson, age 20 of Hooker Street, Rochester, NY
Ashanay J. McBean, age 27 of Terrace Street, Rochester, NY
Each charged with: Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Third Degree, a class D Felony

Background: On Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at 12:26 PM, the Genesee County Emergency Communication Center was contacted by the Erie County Sheriff’s Office. The Erie County Sheriff’s Office was requesting assistance in locating a vehicle that was involved in a larceny in their jurisdiction and provided a vehicle description and the vehicle’s location. Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police and City of Batavia Police Department was notified. The suspect vehicle was located on Route 5 in the Town of Batavia driving towards the City of Batavia. A felony vehicle stop was conducted on West Main Street, east out of Route 98 temporarily stopping traffic. The occupants of the vehicle exited the vehicle without incident and were later identified as Kiara A. Bates, Jayona D. Anderson and Ashanay McBean. Inside of the vehicle, law enforcement identified over $6,000 in alleged stolen property associated with the larceny being investigated by the Erie County Sheriff’s Office. The vehicle itself, a grey Acura MDX, was reported stolen on May 28, 2023 with the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) Transit Police Department. The three suspects were transported to the Genesee County Jail where they were held until the Centralized Arraignment Part (CAP) Court. All three suspects were charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Third Degree. Kiara A. Bates and Jayona D. Anderson were released following arraignment and transported to the custody of the Erie County Sheriff’s Office on pending criminal charges. Ashanay McBean was held in the custody of the Genesee County Sheriff’s due to having two or more felony convictions and a Town Court not authorized by law to set bail in this case. The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the City of Batavia Police Department, New York State Police Troop A, Erie County Sheriff’s Office, NFTA Transit Police Department and Ulta Organized Retail Crime Investigations.

David Lettieri

A federal jury has convicted 36-year-old David Lettieri of Harpursville of enticement of a minor. In October 2020, Lettieri traveled to Wyoming County to meet a 13-year-old girl in a park with the intent of having sexual intercourse. However, no contact occurred. Investigation recovered communications between Lettieri and the victim, including photos. The victim’s age was also revealed during the conversations. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date; Lettieri faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison.

Rebecca McGee

The City of Batavia has announced the appointment of Rebecca McGee to the position of Human Resources Director for the City of Batavia. McGee was selected following an extensive search for candidates and an active recruitment campaign. She will assume her new role on Monday, July 10th. McGee is a Batavia native and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Plattsburgh State University in Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management. She is currently serving as the Human Resources Manager at Liberty Pumps in Bergen. Rebecca is a 2000 graduate of Batavia High School and lives with her husband Patrick in the City of Batavia.

The City Council has agreed to allow open containers of alcohol in Jackson Square over the summer on a couple of conditions. Bars and restaurants wanted to be able to sell alcoholic drinks in the square during the summer concert series and other events and petitioned the Council for permission. The Council allows them to do so as long as they take responsibility by providing liability insurance of at least $1 million, naming the city as co-insured. One local business owner said that an open container policy may help establishments to get more traffic. The Jackson Square concert series is getting ready to kick off on June 23rd with the Old Hippies and will continue with concerts through August 25th, finishing with Ghost Riders.

A teenager who was driving a stolen KIA that crashed on the Kensington Expressway killing four people last fall has now pleaded guilty. The 16-year-old male pleaded guilty in Erie County Court to four counts of Manslaughter in the Second Degree, one count of Assault in the First Degree and one count of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property in the Third Degree. The teen is not being named due to youthful offender status. Investigators say the teen was operating the stolen KIA on the inbound Kensington Expressway on October 24, 2022 when he crashed near the entrance to the Scajaquada Expressway. All five people in the vehicle were ejected. Four of those passengers — Ahjanae Harper, 14; Marcus Webster, 19; Swazine Swindle, 17 and Kevin Payne, 16 — died from their injuries in the crash. A fifth passenger, a 14-year-old female, was treated at ECMC and released. She continues to recover from her injuries. The teen offender is scheduled to be sentenced in August. The Erie County District Attorney’s office says if adjudicated as a youthful offender, he could face 1-1/3 to four years in prison. If youthful offender status is denied, he could face up to 25 years in prison. He is currently remanded into the custody of the Erie County Youth Services Center. An order of protection has been issued on behalf of the surviving victim. (Released photo).

The summer concert season is underway, and a number of agencies are working together to prevent underage drinking at venues across the state. Under an initiative called Operation Prevent, there will be enforcement sweeps through mid-September to stop the use of fake IDs to buy alcohol. Anyone under the age of 21 who is caught using a phony or another person’s ID can get a ticket and have their license revoked for up to a year. Police will also be keeping an eye out for drunk drivers after concerts.

Mathias Tucker

A substitute teacher in Rochester is on leave after allegedly grabbing a 7-year-old student and forcing him into a wall and then shouting in his face. The incident was captured on security cameras. A second teacher pulled the substitute off the boy and then reported the incident to administration. Administration immediately suspended the substitute and informed the boy’s parents. The student, Mathias Tucker, was taken to the hospital with neck and back pain and is staying home, afraid to return to school. The substitute, who has not been identified, is on leave until an investigation is completed.

Local members of the state legislature have finished up an important meeting with the governor’s office. According to reports, yesterday’s discussion was about the possibility that a casino could be set up in the Rochester region. The state is trying to hammer out a brand-new gaming compact with the Seneca Nation but there’s no word on when a deal could be reached. The current agreement is set to expire in December.

Unidentified asylum seeker

The first group of asylum seekers who have been staying in New York City might be arriving in Western New York as early as today. According to WGRZ, those migrants from the southern border are going to be staying at a hotel in Cheektowaga. There will be 60 individuals coming to the region, and the Erie County Department of Social Services has been already notified so it can help them out. County Executive Mark Poloncarz has said in the past he welcomes the arrival of asylum seekers.

An example of how a rabid fox might look.

Several people in Chautauqua County are continuing to recover after being bitten by a rabid fox. The health department says the individuals were attacked on June 9th near the area of Route 430 in Bemus Point. The fox was killed that same day by a conservation officer, and tests revealed that it did have rabies. The disease can be deadly to people and animals if it’s untreated. Residents are being urged to report any suspicious wildlife immediately.

Stefon Diggs at Bills’ Camp, July 2022

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Stefon Diggs is back on the field and once again practicing with the team. Diggs missed the first day of mandatory mini-camp workouts earlier this week and head coach Sean McDermott now says that his absence was excused. McDermott also said any issues Diggs might have with the franchise are resolved but didn’t go into further detail. Last season, Diggs had more than 1,400 yards receiving for the Bills and also scored 11 touchdowns.

The New York State Fair is coming up soon, and Amtrak will be making it easier for people to attend the popular event. The rail company is offering direct service to the fairgrounds in Syracuse. Officials say by deciding to take the train, folks will be able to avoid things like parking fees, traffic and tolls. and save money on gas. Tickets are available right now and can be purchased at amtrak.com. This year’s fair runs from August 23rd through September 4th.

Brad Paisley, undated file photo

Country music superstar Brad Paisley is going to be making a visit to Niagara Falls later this year. Paisley is set to perform at the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino on Friday, August 18th. The multi-time Grammy award winner is known for songs like “Mud on the Tires,” “Perfect Storm” and “Then.” Seats go on sale tomorrow at noon either in-person at the box office or through Ticketmaster.

ELSEWHERE…

Governor Kathy Hochul is encouraging high school graduates across New York state to attend one of the state’s public colleges. Today, she sent letters to all high school grads congratulating them for their achievements and offering them a spot at SUNY and CUNY schools. The letters include points of contact to help seniors with enrollment and financial aid. Prior to the governor’s letters, SUNY sent letters to 125,000 graduating students outside of New York City to alert them that they have been accepted at their local community college for the fall.

Abigail Zwerner, Spring 2023

The Virginia teacher shot by her six-year-old student earlier this year is no longer with the school. An attorney for Abigail Zwerner claims she was fired while a Newport News School District official says the 25-year-old informed them in March she wanted to resign and her contact ended Monday. Zwener filed a $40,000,000 (million) lawsuit that accuses administrators of ignoring warnings hours earlier that the boy was armed.

The 90s comedy show ‘Friends’ will have its first permanent coffeehouse location. The Central Perk Coffee store design will take inspiration from the original set. The coffeehouse will open later this year in Boston, Massachusetts.

Unidentified man; undated file photo

Veterans suffering from PTSD would have access to experimental drug treatment under legislation promoted by a Texas Republican. The bill would create a $75,000,000 (million) federal grant program to support research into magic mushrooms and Ecstasy. Some psychologists believe there’s compelling evidence that both drugs could be effective in treating depression and anxiety.

The manager of the morgue at Harvard Medical School is under federal indictment for allegedly selling stolen body parts. According to the indictment, Cedric Lodge stole parts of dissected cadavers and took them to his home in Goffstown, New Hampshire. He then sold the parts online.

There was no winner in last night’s Powerball lottery, so that jackpot will roll over to an estimated $366,000,000 (million) for Saturday’s drawing. Meanwhile, the Mega Millions jackpot is up to $281,000,000. That drawing is Friday night. Please play responsibly.

Today is Thursday, June 15th, the 166th day of the year.

June 15 in history…

…In 1775, George Washington became Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army.

Charles Goodyear

…In 1844, Charles Goodyear patented vulcanized rubber. He later made the rubber into tires.

The 14th edition of the Boy Scouts of America Handbook, published in 1916

…In 1916, the Boy Scouts of America was incorporated by a bill signed by President Wilson.

Is it Potato? or Potatoe? Don’t ask Dan Quayle…

…In 1992, then Vice President Dan Quayle, relying on a faulty flash card, wrongly instructed a student on how to spell potato during a spelling bee.

“If it doesn’t fit, you must acquit.”

…In 1995, O.J. Simpson struggled to fit into a pair of leather gloves that prosecutors at the trial said were used in the killings of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman.

Bob Barker

…In 2007, CBS aired Bob Barker’s final appearance on the long running game show “The Price Is Right” twice — once in daytime and once in prime time. Months earlier, the 83-year-old Barker announced he was retiring from the show he launched back in 1972.

Nik Wallenda (NBC News Photo)

…In 2012, tightrope walker Nik Wallenda walked across a high wire over Niagara Falls. Wallenda’s death-defying stunt took 25 minutes to complete.

Casey Kasem

…In 2014, radio personality Casey Kasem died at age 82.

Babe Ruth

…In 2019, a jersey belonging to baseball star Babe Ruth became the most expensive sports memorabilia when it sold for five-point-six million dollars at auction.

The Batavia police department is looking for two people of interest in a stolen credit card scheme.  They are asking for the public’s help in identifying 2 people photographed by security cameras leaving Target on Veterans Memorial Drive in Batavia. If anyone knows who they are please contact the investigating detective at (585)345-6357 or you can leave a tip on the confidential tip line.  You can view the photos on WBTAi.com.

A substitute teacher in Rochester is on leave after allegedly grabbing a 7 year old student and forcing him into a wall and then shouting in his face.  The incident was captured on security cameras.  A second teacher pulled the substitute off the boy and then reported the incident to administration.  Administration immediately suspended the substitute and informed the boy’s parents.  The student, Mathias Tucker, was taken to the hospital with neck and back pain and is staying home, afraid to return to school.  The substitute, who has not been identified, is on leave until an investigation is completed. 

The summer concert season is underway, and multiple agencies are working together to prevent underage drinking at venues across the state. Under an initiative called Operation Prevent, there will be enforcement sweeps through mid-September to stop the use of fake IDs to buy alcohol. Anyone under the age of 21 who is caught using a phony or another person’s ID can get a ticket and have their license revoked for up to a year. Police will also be keeping an eye out for drunk drivers after concerts.

The first group of asylum seekers who have been staying in New York City might be arriving in Western New York as early as today. According to WGRZ, those migrants from the southern border are going to be staying at a hotel in Cheektowaga. There will be 60 individuals coming to the region, and the Erie County Department of Social Services has been already notified so it can help them out. County Executive Mark Poloncarz has said in the past he welcomes the arrival of asylum seekers.

The City Council has agreed to allow open containers of alcohol in Jackson Square over the summer on a couple of conditions.  Bars and restaurants wanted to be able to sell alcoholic drinks in the square during the summer concert series and other events and petitioned the Council for permission.  The Council allows them to do so as long as they take responsibility by providing liability insurance of at least 1 million dollars, naming the city as co insured.  Business owner Matt Gray said that an open container policy may help establishments to get cross traffic.  Jackson Square concert series is getting ready to kick off on June 23rd with the Old Hippies and will continue with concerts through August 25th, finishing with Ghost Riders.

A Batavia resident is the new director for the tri county area for Catholic Charities.  Catholic Charities of Buffalo has promoted Katelyn DiSalvo to tri-county district director.  In her new role, she is responsible for the overall administration and functioning of Catholic Charities’ three tri-county offices located at 106 South Main St., in Albion, 25 Liberty St., in Batavia, and 6470 US-20A, in Perry, which include the emergency financial assistance program, friendly phones, and home visitation programming.  With Catholic Charities since 2018, DiSalvo most recently served as an emergency financial assistance specialist, providing support to clients in emergency situations. She also assisted the district director with office responsibilities and local community outreach projects.

Harshad Shah

Authorities have released the name of the man who lost his life in the boat capsize incident in the Lockport Cave Tour on Monday. 65-year-old Harshad Shah of Niagara Falls became trapped under the boat when it went over and died of his injuries before rescuers could get him out of the underground canal. All 29 people aboard the Lockport Cave Tours boat were thrown into the water when it tipped over near the end of the tour that takes people through an unfinished part of the tunnel from the 1800s. People who were on board the boat say it happened when it was time for the tour to return back down the tunnel and people were getting up to look back the way the boat had come. Officials say 11 people were hospitalized with minor injuries. No one on board was wearing a life preserver at the time of the accident. The company is closed until further notice, pending an investigation into the incident.

Jill Turner

41-year-old Jill Turner of Batavia has been charged with harassment, criminal contempt, obstructing governmental administration, resisting arrest and endangering the welfare of a child. She was arrested for threatening the life of a person who she had been ordered to stay away from by becoming combative and then trying to kick officers. Turner also started a fight in front of an 11-year-old child. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released under supervision.

Some of the illegal drugs seized during a recent bust in our region. (Released photo)

Almost 50 people have been arrested and more than $9,000,000 (million) worth of drugs seized following a massive bust in our region. According to Attorney General Letitia James, the probe took two years to complete and led to the removal of fentanyl, cocaine and guns from the streets. The drug ring was operated in Wayne and Monroe counties mainly. Some of the defendants are in jail while others have already posted bail.

Unidentified children in undated file photo.

Governor Hochul has announced that paid parental leave is going to be expanded in the Empire State. The governor said yesterday that thanks to an agreement with unions, more than 80% of state workers will soon have access to paid leave. Employees will be offered up to 12 weeks of full paid leave so they can spend time with a newborn, fostered, or adopted child. Earlier this year, the state began offering paid leave to some state employees who were not members of unions.

The Muckdogs will be having a larger fireworks display for July 3rd thanks to a grant of $4,000 from the city that was originally intended for a picnic for GO ART!, which was canceled. 100 tickets will be donated to families in need.

American Diabetes Association Tour de Cure file photo (13WHAM)

People who still want to take part in the Tour de Cure now have a date that they can circle on their calendars. The event was set to happen last weekend, but it ended up being pushed back due to poor air quality in the region. Now, it is going to take place on Saturday, July 22nd. The tour serves as a fundraiser for the American Diabetes Association and is being held at the Xerox campus in Webster.

File photo from a previous Flag Day celebration at Sahlen Field.

The Buffalo Bisons are going to be hosting an event tonight that will help renovate veterans posts around the area. Flag Day at the Ballpark is taking place at Sahlen Field where the Bisons are set to take on the Syracuse Mets. Proceeds from ticket sales will go towards improvement projects at veterans posts in Erie County. To purchase a seat, go to milb.com/buffalo.

ELSEWHERE…

12-year-old Anthony saves a fawn from drowning in the family’s pool.

A boy from New York is going viral for saving a baby deer in his backyard. Anthony Masaitis’ father taped him pulling out the deer after it fell in the pool in St. James, on Long Island. As of Tuesday morning, the video had over 19-million views on TikTok. The fawn was reunited with its mother shortly afterwards.

An outbreak of Hepatitis A virus infections is being investigated and has been linked to Frozen Strawberries (February 2023). An additional recall is now underway for products sold at Walmart and Costco. Do not eat recalled Frozen Organic Strawberries; return the package from where you purchased it for a full refund. FDA’s investigation is ongoing.

An archive profiling the career of TV personality and comedian Joan Rivers will soon be in display at the National Comedy Center in Jamestown. The archive will include jokes from the time period covering the start of her career back in the 1950’s to when she died in 2014. Rivers began as a standup comedian, but she soon became one of the biggest names in Hollywood. Her daughter Melissa says her mother would be thrilled to be included with the comedians represented at the center.

Yikes. Kevin Sabella, Sr., thankfully pictured here with clothes on.

A man running for Town Council on Long Island is losing support after photos show him standing naked at the front door of his home. Babylon’s Republican Committee told Eye Witness News on Tuesday they’re not going to support Kevin Sabella, Sr. in his run. Witnesses say Sabella has been standing nude behind the screen of his front door for the past two months, just feet from his campaign sign. Sabella did not return calls to the media outlet asking if he would withdraw from the race. Police are investigating the claims.

Drawing of what the beaked dinosaur might have looked like.

Researchers say a new type of beaked dinosaur has been discovered in eastern Utah. Information published last week indicates the new species was discovered in a 99,000,000 (million) year-old rock found near Emery County. Paleontologists have been examining the rock since 2015 and describe the dinosaur as about 12-feet long with a bill like a duck. The dinosaur appears to have died out during the Cretaceous Period, which occurred more than 66,000,000 years ago. Researchers are hopeful that more fossils will be discovered that will provide more information about the new species.’

Jay Monahan (file photo)

The PGA Tour’s commissioner says Congress left the PGA to fend for its self. Jay Monahan wrote to Senators in a letter and said their inaction was key to them agreeing to the controversial LIV Golf merger. He wrote that the idea of “another decade of expensive and distracting litigation” pushed them to partner with LIV. Monahan suggested the federal government avoided the issue because of its “complex geopolitical alliance” with Saudi Arabia.

Today is Wednesday, June 14th, the 165th day of the year.

June 14 in history…

1775 U.S. Army flag (in the banner are the words, “This we’ll defend”)

In 1775, the United States Army was founded on this date.

Grand Union Flag

In 1777, U.S. Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes flag designed by Francis Hopkinson to replace the Grand Union Flag.

Warren G. Harding

In 1922, Warren G. Harding became the first president heard on radio.

Anne Frank is pictured in her diary; the entry is from later in 1942.

In 1942, Anne Frank wrote her first diary entry, two days after she received it for her birthday.

Children in their classroom saluting the flag in 1943.

In 1943, the Supreme Court ruled schoolchildren could not be forced to salute the American flag if it conflicted with their religious beliefs.

The Univac 1 in 1951

In 1951, Univac One was unveiled in Washington, D.C. It was billed as the world’s first commercial computer.

President Obama pictured during a visit to Puerto Rico

In 2011, then President Barack Obama met with government officials in San Juan, Puerto Rico. In doing so, he became the first sitting U.S. President to visit the Caribbean island since President John F. Kennedy in 1961.

41 year old Jill Turner has been arrested and charged with harassment in the 2nd degree, criminal contempt, obstructing governmental administration, resisting arrest and endangering the welfare of a child.  On the 5th of June Turner, of Burke Drive in Batavia, was being arrested for threatening the life of a person who she had been ordered to stay away from when she became combative and started trying to kick officers.  She started a fight in front of an 11 year old child that created a hazard for the child. 

48 people were arrested in a drug trafficking ring bust in Rochester that was announced on Tuesday.  A drug ring responsible for distributing heroin, cocaine and fentanyl across 7 counties, including Orleans county, was investigated for 2 years before the arrests were made, according to State AG Letitia James.  The investigation started in Wayne county with 2 brothers bringing in the cocaine.  The investigation then moved through the Finger Lakes and into Rochester where a family ring on Avenue D was located and investigated.  Authorities seized 10 kilograms each of fentanyl and cocaine, along with 1/4 pound of heroin, worth more than $9 million. They also seized 19 illegal firearms and more than $440,000 in cash.  Over 100 people have died from overdoses in the last year from drugs attributed to these drug rings.  You can see the list of people who were arrested on our news partner 13WHAM.

Authorities have released the name of the man who lost his life in the boat capsize incident in the Lockport Cave Tour on Monday.  65 year old Harshad Shah of Niagara Falls became trapped under the boat when it went over and died of his injuries before rescuers could get him out of the underground canal.  All 29 people aboard the Lockport Cave Tours boat were thrown into the water when it tipped over near the end of the tour that takes people through a roughly-hewn tunnel from the 1800s. People who were on board the boat say it happened when the boat was starting to return back down the tunnel and people were getting up to look back the way the boat had come. Officials say 11 people were hospitalized with minor injuries.  No one on board was wearing a life preserver at the time of the accident.  The company is closed until further notice, pending an investigation into the incident.

Pastors from a local church sparked controversy when they protested a PRIDE event that blocked the entrance to their church and they say sent a wrong message about what the church stands for.  Jason and Michelle Norton who co-pastor Everpresent Church posted on social media that they were upset about a stage and display for a PRIDE event that was put up just outside the entrance to their church in the parking lot of the City Center.  Everpresent Church is not an LGBT affirming church but the Norton’s say it is a people affirming church that stands on God’s word.  They then went to the City Council meeting to say that there had been no communication from event organizers or consideration of how the event would affect the church.  Everpresent church is under renovation and the event stage blocked getting materials and workers into the church.  The Nortons say the church has been subjected to threats and called names because of their stance and are willing to sit down and talk and are planning forums and dinners for discussion to peaceably talk about their beliefs.

The Muckdogs will be having a larger fireworks display for July 3rd thanks to a grant of 4 thousand dollars from the city that was originally intended for a picnic for GO ART! which was canceled.  In Robbie Nichols’ letter requesting the additional funds, Nichols pledged to donate 100 tickets for families in need. On Tuesday, he said it would likely be more than 100 tickets, as he wanted to make it possible for any families that couldn’t otherwise afford to attend to be able to also enjoy the Fourth of July festivities.

What a furball.  An investigation by the Humane Society of Greater Rochester is underway after 107 cats were rescued from a hoarding situation.  Lollypop Farm investigators responded Friday to a home on Courtright Street in Gates after receiving a 911 report of cats in unsanitary conditions.  There were dead cats inside, and many others are sick according to Lollypop Farm.  The house, which has been recently deemed unlivable by the town, reeks of urine — and neighbors have had to set up fly traps in their own yards.  Investigators with the Humane Society are looking into whether charges will be filed. Lollypop Farm is still working to rescue more cats from the home.

Erica Gibbs is safe.

Erica Gibbs was located and found safe. Batavia Police said a missing 16-year-old girl was found last night and they thank the public and media outlets for their assistance. Erica Gibbs had last been seen Thursday, June 8 around 7:30am in Batavia.

Overhead photo of canal at cave tour site. (13WHAM)

One person is dead and eleven others are continuing to recover following the capsizing of a Lockport Cave and Underground Tour boat. There were 28 passengers and a boat operator on the vessel yesterday when it became unbalanced. The person who lost their life ended up being trapped under the boat, but everyone else who was hurt is expected to survive. The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

Aftermath of fatal plane crash.

Brand-new information has been released on a plane crash in Niagara County that resulted in a pilot being killed. State Police have now identified the victim of Sunday’s tragedy in the Town of Porter as 35-year-old Christopher Caruana of Grand Island. He was the only individual on board when the single-prop aircraft went down in a field off Braley Road. The NTSB says Caruana was an experienced pilot who had over 5,000 hours of flight time. (Released photo)

City of Batavia Police arrest records…

30-year-old Kody Wenzel of Batavia has been arrested and charged with petit larceny. It’s alleged he stole medication from a family member. Wenzel was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court.

Kevin McCoy

56-year-old Kevin McCoy of Batavia is charged with criminal contempt, criminal tampering and burglary. He was arrested following investigation into a break-in; it’s alleged McCoy had been in a home while the resident was away, had torn down curtains and dumped garbage on the floor. It was then found that he has an active stay-away order of protection with the complainant being the protected party. McCoy was arraigned in CAP Court.

Lyndsay Young

40-year-old Lyndsay Young of Batavia is charged with criminal contempt and aggravated family offense. She violated a stay-away order of protection by contacting the protected party. Young was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court today.

34-year-old Tommy Crawford of Batavia is charged with petit larceny and then was subsequently arrested on an out-of-state warrant as a fugitive from justice. The larceny charge followed allegations that he stole from a business on East Main Street. The outstanding warrant is from Pennsylvania charging Crawford with making terroristic threats with the intent to terrorize another person. Additional charges included disorderly conduct, harassment and solicitation of a ride. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court on the outstanding warrant and remanded to the Genesee County Jail pending extradition. Crawford was also issued an appearance ticket for the petit larceny charge.

Mayor Malik Evans

Rochester Mayor Malik Evans says he and fellow leaders haven’t been involved in any talks about a possible casino in the city. Right now, state lawmakers are trying to work out a new gaming compact with members of the Seneca Nation. The terms of that new agreement may allow the nation to issue a casino license to Rochester. In a statement, Mayor Evans said any discussions that don’t include local stakeholders are unacceptable and he pointed out there are already other casinos in the region.

Undated file photo.

Buffalo police have tracked down the suspect who they say was responsible for a fatal stabbing in the city over the weekend. On Sunday, 49-year-old Tremaine Mayfield was found suffering from a chest wound in the area of Niagara Street and Maryland Street. He was brought to a nearby hospital, but could not be saved. A short time after the domestic incident, 36-year-old Timothy Austin was taken into custody and charged with manslaughter.

One of the cats that needs medical attention. (Photo: Lollypop Farm)

Lollypop Farm is asking for help from the public with taking care of dozens of cats that were recently seized from a home. Many of the animals require medical treatment, and some of them will also need to be fostered or even adopted. Anyone who wants to donate things such as cat carriers, formula, or food can do so by going to the shelter, which is located on Victor Road in Fairport. For more information, go to lollypop.org.

File photo from last week of the Bandits celebrating their first NLL win since 2008.

Players with the Buffalo Bandits are going to be celebrating their team’s National Lacrosse League championship with fans later this week. A free party is happening Thursday at 5:00pm in Alumni Plaza and will include a parade that’ll go down Washington Street and end at Sahlen Field. The NLL Finals Most Valuable Player Dhane Smith will throw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Buffalo Bisons game against the Syracuse Mets. That contest is scheduled to start at 7:05.

#91 Ed Oliver

Ed Oliver has been signed for another 4 years for the Buffalo Bills. The defensive tackle reportedly agreed to an extension with the Bills worth $68 million (including $45 million guaranteed). He was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance on Thanksgiving Day in Detroit. Oliver was a first-round pick out of Houston in 2019, and is the only player in the NFL to record both a safety and a forced fumble in a single game last season. And by the way, as of today, we are only 90 days away from the Bills’ first game of the season against the Jets…but who’s counting??

ELSEWHERE…

Former President Trump in file photo from April 4, 2023.

Former President Donald Trump has pleaded not guilty to 37 charges related to alleged mishandling of classified documents. Trump’s lawyers asked for a jury trial during the former president’s arraignment Tuesday at a federal courthouse in Miami.

Deja Taylor

Abby Zwerner

The mother of a six-year-old who shot his teacher in Virginia is pleading guilty to federal charges. On Monday, Deja Taylor entered a guilty plea to one count of being an illegal drug user while possessing a firearm, and one count of making false statements to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. An investigation found both narcotics and marijuana in her home, along with loose ammunition and no way to secure firearms. In January, her son shot his first grade teacher, Abby Zwerner, inside her classroom.

Bella Montoya was NOT dead, yet in a coffin and at her own funeral.

A woman is recovering after waking up inside a coffin at her own funeral. It happened Friday in Ecuador, where mourners were gathered to say goodbye to 76-year-old Bella Montoya, declared dead from cardiorespiratory arrest. That diagnosis was a bit premature as she started banging against the side of the coffin. Medics quickly administered aid and later determined she suffered from catalepsy, a condition that causes a trancelike state, slower bodily functions and body rigidity.

The new design

The famous 7-Eleven Slurpee is getting a makeover. The recipe isn’t changing but the cups are as the company wants to ditch its psychedelic pinwheel look. The cup has had seven redesigns since 1966. The new design will feature a new logo and the “S” on the cup will resemble the swirly top of the drinks. According to the National Association of Convenience Stores, 7-Eleven is the largest U.S. convenience store chain.

Dr. Rochelle Walensky

The outgoing director of the CDC is testifying before Congress on the federal response to the COVID-19 pandemic. A House Oversight select subcommittee is reviewing decisions made by federal officials during the outbreak, which have drawn criticism, including mask requirements, school closures and vaccine mandates. Republican Committee Chair Brad Wenstrup has blasted the policies from the CDC as having “wreaked havoc on American society.” Dr. Rochelle Walensky is set to leave office June 30th.

Today is Tuesday, June 13th, the 164th day of the year.

June 13 in history…

Believe it or not, prior to this date in 1920, it was ok to mail your children.

…In 1920, the U.S. Post Office said that children could no longer be sent by parcel. Parents would mail their children because it was cheaper than other ways of transportation if the child weighed under the 50-pound parcel weight limit.

…In 1927, the American flag was displayed from the right hand of the Statue of Liberty for the first time.

…In 1966, the United States Supreme Court handed down what would become known as the Miranda Decision. The ruling gave individuals the right to remain silent after being taken into custody by police.

Captain Joseph Hazelwood died last September at age 75.

…In 1994, a jury in Anchorage, Alaska found the Exxon Corporation and Captain Joseph Hazelwood reckless in the “Exxon Valdez” oil spill disaster, opening the doors for a billion-dollar lawsuit filed by the victims of the spillage.

O.J. Simpson in police car being taken in for questioning.

…Also in 1994, former football great O.J. Simpson was questioned by Los Angeles police in connection with the murders of his ex-wife Nicole Brown-Simpson and her friend Ronald Goldman.

Undated photo of President George H.W. Bush skydiving.

…In 2004, a day after celebrating his 80th birthday, former President George H.W. Bush successfully completed a sky dive at the Texas A&M campus in College Station, Texas. Bush performed a tandem jump with a member of the Army’s Golden Knight’s skydiving team.

The Associated Press photo and graphic says it all.

…In 2005, a jury in Santa Maria, California acquitted pop star Michael Jackson on all ten counts related to accusations brought by a 13-year-old boy who said Jackson molested him at his Neverland Ranch. A somber-looking Jackson wiped tears from his eyes as the verdict was read, and left the court house quietly, offering a few brief waves before disappearing into a black SUV that took him back to Neverland.

The Batavia Police Department is seeking public assistance in locating a 16-year-old girl.  Erica Gibbs was last seen on 06/08/2023 at approximately 7:30 AM in Batavia.  She was last seen wearing a black Nike Hoodie, a red hoodie, and black sweatpants. Erica is about 5’05” and 115 lbs with brown hair and brown eyes.  Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to call the Batavia Police Department at 585-345-6350 or the NYS Missing Persons Clearinghouse at 1-800-346-3543

1 person is dead and many were injured after a boat capsized on the Erie Canal in Lockport.  The boat wasn’t on the canal proper but was in the underground tunnel that is part of the cavern system used to transport water for the old industries in Lockport, now part of the Lockport Cave and Underground Tour.  The flat bottom boat which travels a few hundred yards up and back slowly in the tight cave lit by small electric lights went over Monday with 28 passengers and 1 staff member.  A 60 year old man was trapped under the boat and drowned while many people clambered onto the bottom which was now out of the water.  The Lockport Fire Department said it took over an hour to get everyone out of the water after the incident. 

Leaders in Rochester and Western Regional Off Track Betting Corporation responded to news of Seneca Nation planning a casino for Downtown in the City of Rochester.  Mayor Malik Evans said it’s unacceptable that neither city leadership nor local state lawmakers have been involved in any conversations with the Seneca Nation about the possibility of a casino license being granted in Rochester.  Bob Duffy, president and CEO of the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, expressed his disbelief that a new gaming compact would permit the establishment of a casino in the city without the involvement and consent of local officials.  Henry Wojtaszek, President of WROTB, said in a press release that the casino idea was a non-starter, the area around Rochester is already saturated with casinos, and that a new casino in Rochester would cost counties money and jobs.

There was a power outage ranging from Batavia to Byron on Monday after a wire came down on Bank Street Rd around 7:30 in the evening.  At 8319 Bank Street Rd someone called in that there was an electrical wire sparking in a tree.  National Grid reported 2,471 customers without power in an area that stretched from East Main Street and Clinton Street in the City of Batavia up to Starowitz Road near Edgerton Road in Byron.  By 9:30 power was restored for nearly all customers with crews still at work to bring it back for the last couple hundred.

The Genesee Country Village and Museum is inviting father’s out to the ballgame, 1868 style.  Dad’s are invited to a double header baseball game at Silver Baseball Park on Father’s Day June 18th.  Come watch how players played the sport before modern rules and equipment such as gloves were introduced.  The games start at 11AM with doors opening at 10.  Dads get in free.  When you aren’t watching the game you can check out the historical exhibits, go to the pub or restaurants, or visit with the people of the village as they go about their day in the 1800s. 

Ed Oliver has been signed for another 4 years for the Buffalo Bills.  The defensive tackle reportedly agreed to an extension with the Bills worth $68 million, including $45 million guaranteed.  He was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week for his performance on Thanksgiving Day in Detroit.  Oliver was a first-round pick out of Houston in 2019, and is the only player in the NFL to record both a safety and a forced fumble in a single game last season.

Lucas Rose

An arrest has been made in the shots fired incident on Vine Street. Originally police reported that someone had fired a shot down the driveway of a home on Vine street but with no-one hit and no bullets found to have hit any building they didn’t have much to go on. After collecting evidence, witness accounts and video footage, the detectives were able to narrow their focus to one individual who fired a single shot following a verbal altercation at the residence. 19-year-old Lucas Rose of Batavia was arrested in LeRoy and charged with Reckless Endangerment in the 1st Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 3rd degree. He’s remanded to the Genesee County Jail  and ordered to reappear in City Court on June 20th.

32-year-old Johnny Koonce, Jr. of LeRoy has been charged with unlawful imprisonment and harassment. He was arrested yesterday; it’s alleged Koonce refused to let a second individual out of a moving vehicle and shoved their head into the door of the vehicle. He was transported to Genesee County Jail and is being held pending his CAP Court Arraignment.

INDICTMENTS: The Grand Jury of Genesee County has indicted 22-year-old Isaac Abrams of Alabama. He’s charged with the Class C violent felony of robbery. Last March, he is accused of forcibly stealing property – a safe and money – while at the Honey Pot Dispensary in Alabama. ALSO: 23-year-old Dale Skates, Jr. of Middleport, has been indicted on the felony charge of grand larceny. In November 2022, he stole property from the Home Depot in Batavia having a value exceeding $1000.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley has partnered with the Sunnking recycling group to offer free electronic device collection and recycling. Collection day is this Saturday, June 17, from 8:30 a.m. to noon in the parking lot at 5130 E Main Street Road in Batavia. Pre-registration is requested of all attendees. Use this form to register online: https://form.jotform.com/Sunnking/Hawley23.

Gas prices have remained consistent this past week. According to Triple A this afternoon, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $3.59. In New York State, we’re paying a dime more, for a per gallon price of $3.69. In Batavia, the average price is $3.64; two cents lower than a month ago and $1.28 less than we were paying a year ago today.

Undated file photo

Rochester police are continuing to look into a shooting in their city that sent three people to the hospital. Officers responded to a shots fired call near St. Paul Street and Avenue C yesterday and found a man with a gunshot wound to the upper body. Moments later, two other people arrived at area hospitals to be treated for their injuries. All of the victims are expected to be OK and no arrests have been made in connection with this case.

An investigation is now underway into what caused a deadly plane crash in Niagara County. The small, single-prop aircraft went down yesterday in a field off of Braley Road, which is located in the Town of Porter. The pilot was the only person onboard at the time of the tragedy and their name has not been released yet. This accident is the third one in the Western New York region to involve a plane over the last few weeks.

Unidentified woman in undated photo donating blood.

The American Red Cross is offering more incentives to make sure there is enough blood available to last through the summer months. Anyone who donates until June 30th will receive a ten-dollar e-gift card for a merchant of their choice. They’ll also automatically be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a backyard theater package. To find a donation site in your area, call 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org. The next two local blood drive will be at the Social Services Building on East Main Street Road from 9:00am until 3:00pm on Friday, July 7th; followed by a blood drive at the First United Methodist Church on Lewiston Road from 2:00 until 7:00pm on Tuesday, July 18th.

The Muckdogs went to Geneva on Friday and picked up a 10 to 6 win over the Red Wings. Then they came back to Batavia and lost to them on Sunday night 2 to 4. Caleb Rodriguez went 2-3 with 1 RBI, 1 Walk, and 2 Stolen Bases Sunday night. Tonight, the Muckdogs start a two-game series at home against the Auburn Doubledays. Game starts at 6:35 and according to meteorologist Marty Snyder, the rain will have stopped by then.

The Buffalo Sabres have announced that the upcoming player development camp is going to be open to the public. It’s happening July 2nd through the 6th at HarborCenter and will feature 3 on 3 competitions. Future stars that are selected during the upcoming NHL Draft are expected to be in attendance. There is no cost to attend the camp, but tickets will only be available on a first come, first served basis.

ELSEWHERE:

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has a dream job for someone who’s extremely lactose tolerant. The school’s Center for Dairy Research is hiring a dairy taste tester to talk about food based on appearance, texture, taste and aroma. Whoever gets the gig can expect to taste as many as a dozen pizzas and 24 cheese samples a week.

“Transformers — Rise of the Beasts” opened with $60,500,000 (million) to edge out Spidey in this week’s box office battle. “Spider-Man — Across the Spider-Verse” earned just over $55,000,000 at theaters across the U.S. and Canada. The latest entry in the lucrative franchise opened last weekend with $120,000,000.

The Powerball jackpot is getting up there. Lottery officials say no one picked all six numbers in Saturday’s drawing. That means tonight’s jackpot will be worth $324,000,000 (million). As for Tuesday’s Mega Millions jackpot, that’s worth $260,000,000. Please play responsibly.

Today is Monday, June 12th, the 163rd day of the year.

June 12 in history…

Houdini freed himself from a straightjacket

…In 1923, magician Harry Houdini freed himself from a straitjacket while suspended 40 feet in the air.

Al Capone

…In 1931, American gangster Al Capone was indicted on 5,000 counts of prohibition and perjury.

Dedication day in Cooperstown, June 12, 1939

…In 1939, the Baseball Hall-of-Fame was dedicated in Cooperstown, New York. Front row: Eddie Collins, Babe Ruth, Connie Mack, Cy Young; Rear row left to right: Hans Wagner, Grover Cleveland Alexander, Tris Speaker, Napoleon Lajoie, George Sisler and Walter Johnson. (AP Photo/File)

Anne Frank

…In 1942, Anne Frank received her famous diary for her 13th birthday.

1965 photo of Sonny and Cher

…In 1965, Sonny and Cher made their first TV appearance on “American Bandstand.”

Payton Gendron (center), at his sentencing.

…In 1993, the Supreme Court ruled that people who commit hate crimes motivated by bigotry may face a harsher punishment.

An arrest has been made in the shot fired incident on Vine Street on Friday.  Originally police reported that someone had fired a shot down the driveway of a home on Vine street but with no-one hit and no bullets found to have hit any building they didn’t have much to go on.  After collecting evidence, witness accounts and video footage, the detectives were able to narrow their focus to one individual who fired a single shot towards the rear area of the residence at 25 Vine Street following a verbal altercation at the residence.  19 year old Lucas Rose of Batavia was arrested in LeRoy and charged with Reckless Endangerment in the 1st Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 3rd degree.  

State Police responding to a deadly plane crash in Niagara County.  Troopers say the small plane hit some trees and power lines before hitting the ground in a field off Braley Road in the Town of Porter.  The crash was reported around 3:30 Sunday afternoon.  State Police say the pilot was pronounced dead at the scene, and was the only one on board.  Authorities say there are some scattered power outages in the area.  The name of the pilot has not been released. 

The Pembroke Dollars for Scholars program announced that they received a 300,000 dollar donation from the estate of Anne and Vernon J Rupert.  These new funds will be used to create and support five-$5,000 annual awards for students pursuing trade school careers, 2-year associate degrees, and 4-year college or university studies.  In the last 14 years, the Corfu-Pembroke DFS chapter has awarded 186 scholars over $145,000 for college study. This year DFS is awarding $19,300 to graduating Pembroke seniors.  Anne Rupert was a teacher at East Pembroke Elementary School for 17 years and at the Jr/Sr High School for 21 years.  She had a dream of helping students who fell in the middle brackets of achievement but struggled to rise to the top even though they worked hard.  

On Tuesday, June 13 and Tuesday, July 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guy Sceusa from the NYS Department of Veterans Services will be at the Genesee Country Farmer’s Market. Guy will be issuing checks to the Veterans. The market will be open that day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is located at Bank Street and Alva Place.

The Batavia flag football team in its first season went 8 and 0 until they hit the championship game at Monroe Community College.  Their opponents, Canisteo, came into the game with 7 wins and 1 loss.  The #1 seed Batavia went on to lose the game in a shutout, 20 to 0.  It was a hard fought game with Batavia getting to the goal line 3 times but being unable to cross into the endzone with the ball.  Several turnovers didn’t help either.  Canisteo Greenwood walks away the first champions in section V flag football history.

The Muckdogs went to Geneva on Friday and picked up a 10 to 6 win over the Red Wings.  Then they came back to Batavia and lost to them on Sunday night 2 to 4.  Caleb Rodriguez went 2-3 with 1 RBI, 1 Walk, and 2 Stolen Bases Sunday night.  The Muckdogs will be back in action tonight to go against the Auburn Doubledays.  Game starts at 6:35. 

Batavia Police are investigating after reports of a gunshot on Vine Street Friday afternoon.  Witnesses reported to police that a person fired a shot down the driveway between two houses.  There were apparently people outside at the time of the incident, according to Det. Sgt. Matt Lutey, who managed to take cover or otherwise avoid the gunfire.  Nobody was injured in the incident.  Since no building was struck, Lutey said, there is no physical evidence at this time to confirm that shots were fired.  Lutey said police do not know at this time what type of weapon might have been involved. There is no suspect description available at this time.  There are multiple residents in the area, including small children.  The residents were discussing the incident among themselves, that it was “crazy” and that children and pets could have been hurt.

Sen. George Borrello announced that Route 63 in the town of Pavilion will be renamed the “SP4 George Harold Fry Memorial Highway.” Legislation marking the designation, sponsored by Senator Borrello and Assemblyman Stephen Hawley, has passed both houses of the Legislature and awaits Governor Kathy Hochul’s signature.  U.S. Army Specialist 4 George Harold Fry, a native of Pavilion, was killed in action on July 11, 1969, along with 20 other members of the 506th Infantry during combat on Hill 996 in the Shau Valley of Vietnam. Specialist Fry served with D Company, 1st Battalion, 506th infantry, 101st Airborne Division of the U.S. Army. As an RTO (Radio-Telephone Operator), it was his duty to maintain radio contact between his unit, other platoons and Battalion Command. After two fellow RTO’s were killed early in the assault on July 11, Specialist Fry left the safety of cover to re-establish communication between platoons during the battle, placing himself in jeopardy.  Specialist Fry’s actions that day are credited with saving the lives of many other members of his unit.  He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star and the Bronze Star. 

Police in Rochester are looking for suspects in three shootings early Friday.  The first happened around 12:45 a.m. on Fernwood Avenue. Police said a 31-year-old man was shot in the lower body and was found lying on the sidewalk. There is no word on his condition.  Police said a 21-year-old man was shot around 1:30 a.m. on Lyell Avenue near Child Street. That victim is expected to survive.  The third shooting happened in the area of Eldorado Place near Lake Avenue. Police said the victim, a 62-year-old homeless man, walked into Rochester General Hospital around 3:30 a.m. and is in critical but stable condition. Police believe he was wounded during an attempted robbery.  No suspects are in custody in any of the cases.

The New York Farm Bureau is urging Governor Hochul to veto new legislation on seeds.  The legislature just passed the Birds and Bees Protection Act which bans seeds that have been treated with neonicotinoids, small amounts of pesticide that farmers use to avoid using spray pesticides since the plants grow up with the pesticide inside them.  The farm bureau argues that getting rid of these seeds would mean more tilling, more spraying, and a worse environmental and economic impact for farmers.  Proponents of the bill say that these kind of seeds can be eaten by birds and bees can come in contact with the pesticides.  The pesticides at the center of the debate, neonids, have been deemed some of the safest for widespread use.   Senator George Borrello also released a statement condemning the legislation and saying that neonics have been safely used with no impact on bees or birds for decades.

49-year-old Kenneth Robinson, Jr. of Batavia has been charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance. This resulted from a traffic stop early in the morning last Sunday, during which the officer found a bag containing crack cocaine in the vehicle. Robinson was arrested and transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and then released on an appearance ticket. He’s scheduled for Stafford Town Court on July 13th.

Monroe Ambulance took the driver of a delivery vehicle to the hospital after her vehicle was knocked on its side in a collision at the intersection of routes 237 and 18 in Kendall. The delivery van was headed north yesterday afternoon and failed to yield at a stop sign and flashing red light at the intersection. The delivery van then struck a small bus that was carrying 10 workers who had been working on a new solar project on West Kendall Road. None of those workers were injured. Photo credit: Tom Rivers

Residents may find it a bit easier to breathe outside today, but an air quality health alert has been issued for a third day in a row. There are still concerns about particulates and chemicals in the air due to the wildfires in Canada. Smoke from those blazes has settled over the region and forced residents to be indoors much of the time as of late. The good news is air quality is expected to improve in the days to come.  More specifically, the Air Quality Index in our region is expected to hover around 100 throughout the day today, with 0- 50 ratings thought to pose little to no risks. Later this weekend, the wind patterns are expected to blow the smoke west of our area and into the southern states. Strenuous outdoor activities are still not advised, as the pollution level may pose a moderate health concern. This is especially true for anyone sensitive to ozone or particle pollution who could subsequently experience respiratory symptoms.

Unidentified woman in undated file photo fastening her seat belt.

State Police have released the results of their latest “Click It Or Ticket” enforcement campaign. From Monday, May 22nd, through Sunday, June 4th, more than 38,300 tickets were handed out across the Empire State for things such as seatbelt violations and distracted driving. There were also nearly 400 people arrested for DWI and Troopers had to investigate over 2,400 crashes. During last year’s “Click It Or Ticket” campaign, over 40,000 tickets were issued.

Three teenagers have been arrested following a high-speed chase that happened in Monroe County. The pursuit began yesterday after police responded to an apartment complex in Henrietta after receiving a report of people trying to steal cars. One of those stolen cars hit a deputy’s cruiser but no one was hurt. The chase continued in Pittsford and Bushnell’s Basin before ending on Interstate 490. A 13-year-old, 16-year-old, and 17-year-old were all detained and later charged.

Cynthia Matla

A bookkeeper who used to work with the Southtowns Regional Chamber of Commerce is now facing some prison time. The Erie County DA’s office says that 46-year-old Cynthia Matla has admitted to stealing $168,000 from her former employer. From 2019 until 2022, Matla used the chamber’s debit card and issued checks to herself to pay for personal expenses. Matla could be ordered to spend up to seven years behind bars when she’s sentenced in August.

ELSEWHERE…

A family from Las Vegas claims they saw aliens in their backyard after something fell from the sky. On Wednesday, KLAS-TV released 9-1-1 call audio from the morning of May 1st. The caller told the dispatcher there were two non-human beings up to ten feet tall with large eyes staring at him from his backyard in the northwest valley. It happened about 40 minutes after something streaked low across the sky. A bright green flash was seen across Nevada, Utah, and eastern California at that time. The flash was also recorded on a Las Vegas Metro police officer’s body camera. Nearby Nellis Air Force Base says it is not involved with whatever happened that night.

Please play responsibly.

The Mega Millions jackpot has reached $240,000,000 (million) ahead of this evening’s drawing. And whoever wins Powerball tomorrow night will get a $308,000,000 grand prize. Both drawings will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

Recalled coffee from Trader Joe’s

Grocery retailer Trader Joe’s is recalling jars of their instant cold brew coffee, saying they could contain pieces of glass. The company says the products have been pulled from shelves, but customers may have some affected jars stored at home. Products with 2024 expiration dates of June 13th, November 26th, or December 30th are impacted. No injuries have been reported.

Belmont Stakes, 2021

It’s still not clear if horses are going to get the green light to race at the Belmont Stakes in New York as smoke from Canadian wildfires create poor air quality for the region. New York Governor Hochul says it’s going to be a last minute decision. This comes as New York State is instituting enhanced measures to protect horses and spectators ahead of the Belmont Stakes on Saturday.

Pope Francis, file photo

The Pope’s “night went well” in a hospital after abdominal surgery. That’s according to the Vatican. The surgery was on his abdomen and was not considered urgent.

Half of American adults say they disapprove of affirmative action. A Pew Research Center survey shows that half of Americans don’t think colleges and universities should take prospective students’ racial and ethnic backgrounds into consideration. A Supreme Court decision is expected this month on the issue, based on two cases involving Harvard and the University of North Carolina.

Mortgage rates are down for the first time in three weeks. The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is averaging 6.71% and is down from 6.79% from the week before. Economists say homebuyer’s biggest obstacles are elevated rates and low inventory.

Today is Friday, June 9th, the 160th day of the year.

June 9 in history…

…In 1790, the first copyright given for a book was registered to “The Philadelphia Spelling Book.”

Example of porcelain false teeth from the 19th century

…In 1822, the first patent for false teeth was given to Charles Graham.

…In 1943, Congress authorized legislation signaling the go-ahead for a withholding tax.

Secretariat won the Belmont and eventually, the Triple Crown

…In 1973, Secretariat won the Belmont Stakes en route to winning horse racing’s Triple Crown.

Later in 1980, Richard Pryor talked on ABC television about the incident.

…In 1980, comedian Richard Pryor suffered third-degree burns over most of his body while free-basing cocaine. He was on coke and freebase when he got severely burned and was hospitalized for more than two months. Jennifer Pryor, who was not married to him at the time, said she was at the house before the fire and feared he would hurt himself.

The workers were able to stand in waist-deep chocolate until they were rescued.

…In 2022, two people are rescued at Mars M&M factory in Pennsylvania after falling into a tank of chocolate.

The Air Quality Index in Western NY hit the highest it’s ever been with it reaching over 220.  A healthy air quality is 0-50.  It is expected to hover around 100 throughout the day today.  The fires in Canada are not out but the wind patterns are expected to blow the smoke west of our area and into the southern tier and Pennsylvania.  The smoke will most likely come back over the weekend.  Strenuous outdoor activities are still not advisable as the air quality is still poor.  

Three teens were taken into custody after leading Monroe County deputies on a chase Thursday.  MCSO said deputies responded to an apartment complex on Commons Way in Henrietta just before 5 a.m., for the report of people trying to steal cars., and a witness claiming they saw someone break the sunroof of a car in the parking lot.  Once there, deputies saw three vehicles being driven recklessly, with one of them striking a deputy’s patrol car as they left the lot and sped away towards Pittsford.  Authorities continued to follow the striking vehicle, as the other two split off and went in different directions.  Deputies said they eventually stopped the striking vehicle on I-490 in Bushnell’s Basin, arresting a 13-year-old, who remains in a children’s detention center. They’re charged with criminal possession of stolen property, criminal mischief and reckless endangerment  A 16- and 17-year-old were also taken into custody. They were charged with criminal possession of stolen property, issued appearance tickets, and released.

Genesee Park and Forest is holding an Environmental Science Camp July 17th through the 21st from 9 to 4 at the interpretive center.  This week-long adventure includes wildlife surveys, field and stream studies, outdoor recreation, a field trip, and more! The cost is $95/camper for the entire week. All materials and a camp T-shirt are provided.  Transportation is provided from Batavia High School to and from camp each day. Maximum 20 campers. The registration deadline is Wednesday, July 5.

Genesee County needs more emergency dispatch workers, Mental Health Clinical Therapists, Mental Health Clinical Social Workers, Caseworkers and Social Welfare Examiners.  Till May 17th of next year applicants in Genesee County will not need to pass the Civil Service test for these positions.  This is part of the Hiring Emergency Limited Placement program or HELP to get people into these positions quickly.  The county urges anyone interested in these positions to call the Genesee County Human resources Department at 585 815 7805 or email civilservice@co.genesee.ny.us.

FL!P Circus will bring its 2023 tour to Buffalo for the first time this summer from July 7 to July 16.  The circus, which will take place at Walden Galleria, will feature an assembly of international acts.  Acts include the Bello Sisters, an Italian trio of acrobats, Carolina Vasquez, a Mexican trapeze artist, and the Super Tumblers, a fast-paced group of acrobats.  Showtimes for the circus will begin at 7:30 p.m. on weekdays and 1 p.m., 4 p.m., and 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

As part of New York State’s Path Through History, the Holland Land Office Museum will be hosting a War of 1812 Encampment on Saturday, June 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.   The event features re-enactors, encampments, and other displays both inside and outside of the museum. The re-enactors are from the local Genesee Militia, which was stationed in Batavia.  Batavia was the location that U.S. forces and refugees from Buffalo retreated to after the village of Buffalo was burned in December 1813.

Jill Turner

One resident is testing the new ordinance that bans livestock within city limits except for specific exceptions. Jill Turner has continued to keep a goat at her home. She brought it indoors following passage of the ordinance but neighbors reported her to police. Turner apparently was on the receiving end of many complaints regarding the noise and smell her animals produced. She has also been reported for harassing her neighbors. Turner now faces many charges.

33-year-old Emily Nichols of Batavia has been arrested by Genesee County Sheriffs and charged with welfare fraud. It’s alleged she failed to report the wages of her husband, resulting in her receiving $7885 in SNAP benefits for which she was not entitled. Nichols was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance. She’ll return to court at a later date.

An air quality health advisory is in effect today for all Western New York counties and eastern Lake Ontario regions due to smoke from wildfires in Canada that continues to blanket us. The state Department of Health recommends people limit their outdoor activities and to avoid any long-term exposure to the smoke. People who are more susceptible to breathing problems or have heart disease should be particularly careful. And if you have to be outside, you should consider wearing a mask to protect yourself from particulates and chemicals. Genesee County is handing out free facemasks while supplies last. You can pick up a free mask from 8 to 4:30 at the Emergency Management Office on State Street Road and at the Old Courthouse in Batavia. To check the air quality index in your area, head to https://www.airnow.gov/. By the way, a shift in atmospheric conditions and the forecast rain on Monday should both improve our air quality starting this weekend.

State Police are continuing to look into a tragic accident where a site inspector was killed on the Thruway. According to Troopers, 45-year-old Brett Decker was in a work zone between Exit 48 and Exit 48A yesterday when he was hit by a construction vehicle. Decker walked into the right lane behind a dump truck that was backing up and ended up being struck. He was pronounced dead at the scene and no one else was hurt.

David Fermoile

A Lockport man is in jail without bail after being charged with murder in connection with a woman’s death. Niagara County deputies were called to a house on Windermere Road to do a wellness check yesterday and arrived to find the victim had passed away due to several head and facial injuries. Their investigation led to the arrest of 64-year-old David Fermoile, who was already at the home. The name of the woman hasn’t been released.

Aftermath in Buffalo of December 2022 blizzard. Associated Press photo.

Following a blizzard last year that took dozens of lives, Erie County officials are considering the creation of a winter storm rating system. County Executive Mark Poloncarz has asked the county Legislature to approve a contract that would allow a group called the Research Foundation to begin its work. The project would include a review of the communications during the December storm that devastated the area. Poloncarz said after the disaster further proactive steps need to be taken to warn the public should a life-threatening storm approach again.

Seneca Hero, Seneca Nation of Indians

Members of the Seneca Nation say an agreement has been reached in principle with New York State on a new gaming compact. If approved by the Seneca people and Department of the Interior, the compact would be in place for 20 years. The current agreement that was signed back in 2002 is scheduled to expire in December. Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong Junior says negotiations focused on getting a fair deal that provides critical services and secures the future of gaming operations.

New York City is challenging upstate counties that declared a state of emergency on the grounds that it’s unconstitutional. The lawsuit is an attempt to void the declarations in counties, including Genesee and Orleans, which would then allow buses of asylum seekers to come from the Big Apple. The lawsuit claims 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,” and is requesting that the state Supreme Court invalidate each counties’ states of emergency. It also asks to prohibit the locales from taking steps that “restrict or frustrate” the effort to address a statewide emergency, which Governor Kathy Hochul declared on May 9.

Frost Avenue, Rochester (13WHAM Photo)

Three teenagers are continuing to recover after they were struck by gunfire in Rochester. The shooting happened last night following a crash on Frost Avenue in the city. A 13-year-old girl was spotted on Genesee Street and the 14-year-old and 17-year-old victims went to a nearby hospital in a private vehicle. All three individuals were treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Anyone with information on this case is asked to dial 911.

Josh Allen – Cover of Madden 24

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has been selected to be the cover athlete for one of the most popular video game franchises in history. Allen will be on the front of the Madden NFL 24 video game when it hits store shelves on August 18th. He’s the first member of the Bills to ever be chosen for this honor. Allen says the opportunity to join the short list of cover athletes for the Madden franchise is humbling and surreal.

4th of July in Rochester, 2019 (13WHAM Photo)

The Fourth of July is less than a month away, and plans have been announced for how Rochester is going to be celebrating the holiday. A fireworks show will take place on July 4th at 10:00pm, and the best place for people to see them is the area of the Broad Street and Court Street bridges. There will be parking available nearby in the Court Street garage and the Sister Cities garage. The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra is also performing the evening of July 7th at Parcel Five from 5:30 to 10:00pm.

ELSEWHERE:  

Pat Robertson

Christian evangelical leader Pat Robertson has died at age 93. Robertson founded the Christian Broadcasting Network in 1960, and started the popular long-running program “The 700 Club.” He was also the first evangelical leader to launch a serious bid for the U.S. presidency in 1988. Pat Robertson’s death was announced this morning by the Christian Broadcasting Network. No cause of death was given.

An actor known for roles in “Better Call Saul” and “Bob’s Burgers,” among others, is behind bars on January 6th riot charges. Federal prosecutors say Jay Johnston helped attack the U.S. Capitol in 2021. He surrendered on Wednesday at the FBI’s Los Angeles field office. The feds say he was a part of a mob that stormed a Capitol tunnel as police were retreating. The 54-year-old faces multiple charges including civil disorder. Johnston was dumped from “Bob’s Burgers” when his alleged involvement in the riot came to light.

Is this rock formation a clue left behind by The Zodiac Killer?

A new clue that one person thinks could be linked to the Zodiac Killer has been found in the Sierra Foothills. The clue was discovered from satellite images by an amateur sleuth who saw a 25-foot wide rock formation that looked like a bulls-eye about ten miles west of Tahoe. The Zodiac Killer used a similar bulls-eye pattern in the taunting letters he sent to police in the 1960’s.

Shannen Doherty

Actress Shannen Doherty says her breast cancer has spread to her brain. The “Beverly Hills 90210” star was first diagnosed in 2015. She shared the update on Instagram with an emotional video that captured a vulnerable look into her health journey, documenting the moment where she was crying while getting radiation treatment.

Belmont Stakes – 2021 file photo

Its not clear if horses are going to get the green light to race at the Belmont Stakes in New York as smoke from Canadian wildfires create poor air quality for the region. New York Governor Hochul says its going to be a last minute decision. This comes as New York State is instituting enhanced measures to protect horses and spectators ahead of the Belmont Stakes on Saturday. Hochul has directed all tracks to pause workouts through today, saying there will be no racing at any facility if the air quality exceeds 200. If the air quality is between 150 and 200, the horses must undergo a pre-race vet examination before the race.

Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy is still speaking out against LIV Golf, one day after a merger with the PGA Tour was announced. The four-time major champion told reporters he “still hates” it. He added that he hopes it goes away after the 2023 season and expects that it will.

Today is Thursday, June 8th, the 159th day of the year.

June 8 in history…

An ice cream advertising poster from the 1850’s.

…In 1786, commercial ice cream was manufactured for the first time in New York City.

Very early version of a washing machine

…In 1824, the washing machine was patented.

The first model of vacuum cleaner, from 1869

…In 1869, Ives McGaffey of Chicago patented the suction vacuum.

Penny postcard, 1872

…In 1872, Congress authorized the penny post card.

President Nixon visiting Vietnam troops in July, 1969. They were likely quite welcoming since he was working to get the troops sent home.

…In 1969, then President Richard Nixon announced that 25,000 U.S. troops would be withdrawn from Vietnam by the end of August.

A retired number

…Also in 1969, the New York Yankees retired Mickey Mantle’s number seven.

Southern Ocean

…In 2021, National Geographic officially recognizes the “Southern Ocean” as the world’s fifth ocean.

The weather alert for most of New York State continues today as the wildfires in Quebec continue to affect the air quality of local residents.  The Air Quality Alert is in effect till Midnight tonight as the AQI will be above 170 for most of the day.  0-50 is the normal level of particulates in the air.  Limit outdoor activity and avoid strenuous activities like yardwork or sports.  People who are more susceptible to breathing problems or have heart disease should be particularly careful.  Genesee and Orleans Counties are handing out free facemasks while supplies last.  You can pick up a free mask from 8 to 4:30 at the Emergency Management Office on State Street rd and at the Old Courthouse in Batavia and from 8:30 to 4pm at the Orleans county Administration Building in Albion.

New York City is attempting to force upstate counties to take illegal immigrants that are crowding the city.  In a lawsuit the city is attempting to void the states of emergency that counties such as Monroe, Genesee and Orleans and many other counties have enacted to stop buses of people from being sent out of the Big Apple.  Filed on Wednesday, the lawsuit claimed that those emergency orders obstructed NYC’s efforts to relocate migrants “in a manner that is explicitly permitted by law and required by a statewide emergency,” according to a news release.  The lawsuit asks the state Supreme Court to invalidate the emergency orders filed by the counties under the grounds that they are unconstitutional. It also asks to prohibit the locales from taking steps that “restrict or frustrate” New York City’s efforts to address a statewide emergency, which Gov. Kathy Hochul declared on May 9.

The Genesee County Farm Bureau’s annual Kinderfarmin event went on as planned despite 8 out of 10 schools canceling and not in attendance due to the Air Quality alert.  Pembroke and Pavilion Kindergarten students had the whole farm to themselves, and the 100 volunteers at Hildene Farms in Wyoming/Pavilion were glad to share information about the farm through hands on learning stations and guided tours. 15 local businesses also participated.  The event has been ongoing for over 40 years in Genesee County and Natasha Sutherland, Chair of Farm Bureau promotions/education, says farming didn’t stop during COVID and it didn’t stop today.  Normally, 600 kindergarten students from all of Genesee County are in attendance. The event brings kids to farms and shows them exactly where their food comes from.

Batavia’s new city ordinance banning livestock within the city limits except for specific exceptions is being tested.  A resident on Burke Drive, Jill Turner, has continued to keep a goat at her home.  She brought it indoors after the ordinance was passed but neighbors reported her to the police.  Turner is facing many charges.  She apparently had many complaints against her as before the ordinance went into effect she had goats and chickens and pets that prompted noise and smell complaints against her.  She has also been reported for harassing her neighbors and screaming death threats.  

Members of the Seneca Nation say an agreement has been reached in principle with New York State on a new gaming compact. If approved by the Seneca people and Department of the Interior, the compact would be in place for 20 years. The current agreement that was signed back in 2002 is scheduled to expire in December. Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong Junior says negotiations focused on getting a fair deal that provides critical services and secures the future of gaming operations

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has been selected to be the cover athlete for one of the most popular video game franchises in history. Allen will be on the front of the Madden NFL 24 video game when it hits store shelves on August 18th. He’s the first member of the Bills to ever be chosen for this honor. Allen says the opportunity  to join the short list of cover athletes for the Madden franchise is humbling and surreal.

City of Rochester in an early evening photo from Tuesday, June 6. (13WHAM)

An air quality health advisory is in effect today and tomorrow for both the Western New York and eastern Lake Ontario regions. Smoke from wildfires that are still burning in Canada will be impacting the air that people breathe. As a result, anyone who has health issues such as asthma, COPD, and bronchitis could suffer some problems like shortness of breath and throat irritation. Those individuals are urged to remain indoors if possible and make sure their windows are closed.

Governor Hochul said that New York has deployed DEC Forest Rangers and Wildfire Firefighters to Quebec to assist. This is the first time that a New York State Forest Ranger has been deployed to Canada since 2005. The Air Quality Index in Western New York is over 120 with the normal range from 0 to 50. Right now the index is showing that members of sensitive groups may experience health effects but the general public is less likely to be affected.

A construction worker was struck and killed by a dump truck on I-90 West, between Exits 48 and 48A near milepost 400, shortly after 5:30 Wednesday morning. State Police confirmed the incident, saying the worker was “backed over” by the truck. We’ll update you as more information becomes available.

The scene of the crash (Released photo)

The investigation is still underway into what caused a plane crash in Chautauqua County that left two men dead. The aircraft went down yesterday at the Chautauqua County Jamestown Airport and when crews arrived at the scene; they spotted the plane engulfed in flames. The victims have been identified as 52-year-old Roger Ryall and 52-year-old David Hughes. The aircraft had stopped to refuel in Jamestown as part of a trip from Pennsylvania to Canada.

Unidentified children in undated file photo using cell phones.

School officials in Albion are proposing changes in the student code of conduct to not allow cell phones during the school day for students in the elementary and middle schools. The district also is proposing a change that would allow for hats and head coverings in the high school, as long as teachers are OK with it in their classrooms. They’ll hold a public hearing in July for feedback. Mickey Edwards is the district superintendent and noted that many districts have implemented similar proposals to limit cell phone use.

Moises Germanguerrero

The Erie County District Attorney’s Office says the Cheektowaga man who killed two cats has been sentenced after pleading guilty to animal cruelty charges. Prosecutors say 23-year-old Moises Germanguerrero took the lives of both animals by striking them in the head in March 2021 and October 2021. He was ordered to spend the next 18 months on probation and is banned from owning any animals for the next five years. Erie County DA John Flynn called this case disturbing and said his office will prosecute animal abusers to the fullest extent of the law.

Five officers were injured in an attack at Wyoming Correctional Facility. An inmate began flailing his arms and screaming in the dorms. When officers moved the inmate to the recreational area he turned and struck one officer in the face. They subdued him and had him transported to the infirmary. The officers hurt experienced minor injuries to their hands, one shoulder injury, and a face injury; all remain on duty. Early impressions from investigation suggest that the inmate, Kenny Gold, appeared to be on drugs that caused him to become violent.

The HEALing Genesee Work Group, in collaboration with the City of Batavia Police Department, will be hosting a Drug Take Back Day next week at the Genesee Country Farmers Market. A table will be set up at the market to collect prescription medications from noon until 3 on Friday, June 16th. An opportunity will be available as well, to learn more about Naloxone, a drug that rapidly reverses an opioid overdose. The Farmer’s Market is located in the parking lot next to the former JC Penney building on Bank Street and Alva Place.

Artist rendering of the new Highmark Stadium

Buffalo Bills fans looking to buy season tickets for the team’s new stadium are advised to get in the virtual line now. Current season ticket holders will have the first opportunity at tickets for the new stadium. Other fans will have to sign up for the waiting list and pay a $150-per-seat deposit, with a maximum of six seats. The deposit doesn’t guarantee seats at the new stadium. Fans who do make it off the waiting list will have their deposit credited as a payment toward their season tickets. Fans can also pull their name from the waiting list at any time and have their deposit refunded, save for a $3 processing fee. All fans that do purchase season tickets for the new stadium will also have to buy a personal seat license. The one-time purchase gives each licensee the right to buy season tickets each year; the cost of the license will vary depending on location and amenities.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London

General admission tickets for this season’s Buffalo Bills game in the United Kingdom are going to be put on sale soon. Fans will be able to purchase seats for a Week 5 clash with the Jaguars at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium starting June 22nd. The game itself kicks off 9:30am Eastern time on Sunday, October 8th. Tickets will range in price from $79 to $192 each. Online registration is required and must be completed by June 12th.

New information has been released on a crash in Wayne County earlier this week that left two people dead. According to State Police, the victims, 59-year-old John M. Crane and 37-year-old John L. Crane, were in a pickup truck that was hit by tractor-trailer near State Route 104 and Ridge Road in Sodus on Monday. The truck didn’t stop at a red light and was struck by the tractor-trailer. No other serious injuries were reported and the cause of the accident is being looked into.

ELSEWHERE:

Orange lobster has a new home at the University of New England, Biddeford Maine.

The University of New England is welcoming a rare orange lobster to its science center. Researchers say the bright crustacean is a 1-in-30-million find. The university is more excited about the lobster having one claw because it offers a rare opportunity for students and faculty. They will get the chance to study how a lobster claw grows in real time. The university is also home to a blue lobster named Blueberry and the famous yellow lobster name Banana.

Trying to make a getaway on a moped

A suspect is in custody after a slow-speed scooter chase along a Minnesota freeway. Traffic cameras captured the suspect riding his scooter the wrong way on the freeway Tuesday. He eventually ditched the shooter and jumped onto a trailer being pulled by a pickup truck. A short time later, police pulled the truck over and arrested the suspect. It’s unclear why they were riding the scooter on the freeway to begin with.

1490 AM, WBTA (as well as 100.1 FM in Batavia and 106.1 FM in LeRoy)

There’s a new push in Congress to keep AM radio in newer vehicle models. A House subcommittee held a hearing today on a bipartisan bill that would require carmakers to keep AM radio in their vehicles, as some manufacturers have started to phase it out in new electric vehicles. Car companies have argued the electric batteries interfere with AM transmissions.

Today is Wednesday, June 7th, the 158th day of the year

June 7th in history…

Dr. Joyce Brothers cashed in big by using her expertise in boxing. She won the grand prize – $64,000 – in October 1957.

…In 1955, “The 64-Thousand Dollar Question” premiered on television.

President Eisenhower

…Also in 1955, then President Eisenhower is the first president to appear on color TV.

1965 advertisement for the Sony videotape recorder

…In 1965, Sony Corporation unveiled their brand new home video tape recorder. It sold for $995.

David Brinkley and John Chancellor covering the 1976 election (NBC Photo)

…In 1976, “The NBC Nightly News” with John Chancellor and David Brinkley aired for the first time.

Vicki Van Meter preparing for takeoff.

…In 1994, 12-year-old Vicki Van Meter completed a trans-Atlantic flight, landing in Glasgow, Scotland. She became the youngest pilot to fly east to west across the continental United States of America, and the youngest female pilot to cross in either direction. Sadly, she committed suicide in March 2008. Her brother said she battled depression and opposed medication, but her family thought she had been dealing with her problems. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, please call 988.

Jim McKay

Vinko Bogataj , the accidental celebrity – pictured here in 2022.

Vinko, experiencing the ‘agony of defeat’ on March 7, 1970

…In 2008, award-winning sportscaster Jim McKay died at the age of 86. McKay was best known for delivering the line “the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat” before the opening of ABC’s “Wide World Of Sports” which he hosted for 37 years.

Have you noticed it’s a little bit…yellow outside?  The haze is coming from wildfires still raging out of control in Canada and the smoke is causing our region to have low air quality as there are high amounts of particulates.  It is recommended that residents not spend much time outside and abstain from any manual labor or strenuous activity.  That is why Batavia City Schools have canceled all outdoor activities for today.  The section 5 flag football game is scheduled to go on as planned but may be rescheduled.  Keep an eye on BCSD’s facebook page for updates.  

Governor Hochul issues a statement about the air quality advisory and the ways the wildfires in Canada are impacting New Yorkers.  She said that New York has deployed DEC Forest Rangers and Wildfire Firefighters to Quebec to assist.  This is the first time that a New York State Forest Ranger has been deployed to Canada since 2005.  The Air Quality Index in Western New York is over 120.  A normal AQI is 0 to 50.  Right now the index is showing that members of sensitive groups may experience health effects but the general public is less likely to be affected.  

5 officers were injured in an attack at Wyoming Correctional Facility on the 30th of May.  An inmate at the facility began flailing his arms and screaming in the dorms.  When officers began to move the inmate to the recreational area he turned and struck one officer in the face.  They subdued him and had him transported to the infirmary.  The 5 officers hurt had minor injuries to their hands, one shoulder injury, and a face injury.  All 5 remain on duty.  According to the New York State Corrections Police Benevolent Association Western Region VP, Kenny Gold, the inmate appeared to be on drugs that caused him to become violent.  This has been a trend lately with many attacks caused by drugs.  He also blames New York’s HALT act for there being no disincentives to breaking rules in the prisons or corrections facilities.

Buffalo Bills fans looking to buy season tickets for the team’s new stadium are advised to get in the virtual line now.  Current season ticket holders will have the first opportunity at tickets for the new stadium. Other fans will have to sign up for the waiting list and pay a $150-per-seat deposit, with a maximum of six seats.  The deposit doesn’t guarantee seats at the new stadium. Fans who do make it off the waiting list will have their deposit credited as a payment toward their season tickets. Fans can also pull their name from the waiting list at any time and have their deposit refunded, save for a $3 processing fee.  All fans who do purchase season tickets for the new stadium will also have to buy a personal seat license (PSL). The one-time purchase gives each licensee the right to buy season tickets each year. The team said the cost of a PSL “will vary depending on location and amenities.”

Retired RPD sergeant Brett Sobieraski started running 8 States for Maz back in April, in honor of Anthony Mazurkiewicz, who was shot and killed in the line of duty last summer.  He will finish his run in Rochester on the 11th if all goes as planned.  His run will take him through Batavia today sometime between 7 and 11am.  He will be running up rt 98 coming from Attica and then running east on Main Street.  He will go out of town towards I-90 on rt 33 most likely stopping near the Thruway overpass and then carrying on Thursday morning.  Anyone who would like to follow him or cheer him on is welcome to do so.  Donations for the Mazurkiewicz Family are still being accepted by the Rochester Police Locust Club.  to donate, follow the link at wbtai.com.

https://locustclub.org/sites/default/files/Rochester%20Police%20Locust%20Club%2C%20Inc%20PN%20Button2_0.html

Men’s Journal recently released its list of “The 50 Best Beers in the World” and two local beers made it on the list.  The list includes IPAs, stouts, sours, amber ales, lagers, pilsners and more.  The two local beers that made the list are Genny Cream Ale from the Genesee Brewery in Rochester which came in at #32 and Pumking from Southern Tier Brewing Co. in Lakewood which came in at #49.  Men’s Journal described Cream Ale: “Genesee first released Cream Ale in 1960, striking a winning balance with lager crispness, fruity ale character, and smooth sweetness courtesy of corn. It’s what you should fill your cooler with come summer.” It described Pumking as “In the best way possible, Pumking tastes like boozy pumpkin pie.”

Jason Clark

42-year-old Jason Clark, a 20-year employee of St. Paul Lutheran School has pleaded guilty to one count of course of sexual conduct with a child in the second degree. According to District Attorney Kevin Finnell, Clark has admitted that he touched the chest of a female child two or more times in 2015 and 2016. As part of the plea deal, Clark agreed to surrender his teaching license and was placed on interim supervision by the Probation Department for one year. Clark started working at St. Paul Lutheran in Batavia as a teacher in 2002. He became principal in 2019. He was charged in January of this year and pursuant to his arrest, was released from his position.

A mulch fire next to the building caused a fire at Marley Funeral Home at 135 Main Street in Attica late Monday afternoon. According to Wyoming County Office of Emergency Services, quick actions by firefighters prevented the business from being totally destroyed. The attic area sustained significant fire damage, along with smoke and water damage to the habitable area of the first and second floor. No one was in the building at the time of the fire. The fire caused an estimated $125,000 in damage. Fire crews from 6 companies responded, Attica, Bennington, Cowlesville, Alexander, Town of Batavia and City of Batavia, and were at the scene for about 3.5 hours.

The worst fire season on record in Canada, according to news reports, is causing a decline in air quality throughout large parts of the United States, including Western New York. As a result, Batavia City Schools have cancelled all outdoor activities for the rest of the day, on the advice of the County Health Department. Superintendent Jason Smith added, there are no concerns with indoor air quality. The cancellation includes the annual color run at John Kennedy Intermediate School. Also, the Batavia Girls Flag Football sectional semifinal game scheduled for tonight has been postponed until 7 p.m. Wednesday at 7 p.m., at Van Detta Stadium. Tickets already purchased for the game can be used tomorrow.

An Air Quality Advisory is issued for today, for the entire Western and Central New York regions. It’s in effect through tonight (and is likely for tomorrow. as well). The pollutant of concern is particulate matter, due to high concentrations of soot, smoke, dust or dirt from the fires in Quebec. (Particulate matter, also known as particle pollution, is a complex mixture of small solid particles and liquid droplets in the air. Some particulate matter, like soot, smoke, dust, or dirt, is large enough to see. Fine particulate matter is so small that it can only be seen through an electron microscope.)  Background information: In Canada, more than 6.7 million acres have already burned in 2023. In Quebec, around 14,000 people were forced to evacuate their homes. More than 150 fires are still burning in the province, according to CBC News. In Nova Scotia, officials said Sunday one-wildfire covers nearly 100 square miles and at last report, was still burning out of control.

The Rotary Club of Batavia has awarded college scholarships of up to $6,000 to each of three local students. This year’s Rotary Scholarships were awarded to: Hannah Spencer, Genesee Valley
Educational Partnership (GVEP), LeRoy; Courtney Daniel, Notre Dame High School and Lauren Reimer, of Batavia High School. 25 applications were received for the 2023 rewards, according to Andrea Aldinger, co-chairperson of the Rotary Scholarship Committee.

This Thursday, June 8th, Dewey, Madison, and Orleans Avenues, along with Adams Street, will be closed to all through traffic, for pavement resurfacing. Residents are asked not to park on these streets on Thursday. All motorists that regularly drive them are asked to seek alternative routes while the closures are in place. Please contact the Bureau of Maintenance at 345-6400 (Option 1) with questions.

David Piatek

Dareius Akbar in court (file photo)

A member of the Tonawanda Police Department who was hurt in the line of duty has been released from the hospital. On May 29th, Officer David Piatek was involved in a traffic stop in the area of Sheridan-Parkside Drive and Plye Court. The driver of that vehicle, 19-year-old Darieus Akbar, allegedly sped off which caused Piatek to be dragged for several feet. Akbar was later taken into custody and is accused of attempted murder.

Duryell Anderson

Buffalo police say they’ve been able to solve a homicide in the city that happened months ago. According to investigators, Ryan Crawford pulled the trigger in a shooting inside of a business on Bailey Avenue back on April 2nd. The victim, Duryll Anderson, ended up being hit in the head by a bullet. He was brought to Erie County Medical Center but couldn’t be saved.

James Huber

Anthony Nigro (center)

A New York State Trooper is now on the other side of the law after being charged with manslaughter. Prosecutors say Trooper Anthony Nigro the fourth opened fire during an officer-involved shooting in Buffalo last year. The incident occurred following a high-speed chase and resulted in the death of 38-year-old James Huber. Nigro was in court yesterday to be arraigned and pleaded not guilty before being released on his own recognizance.

Leonard Floyd (Buffalo Bills photo)

The Bills and linebacker Leonard Floyd have reached an agreement on a one-year deal to bring the versatile pass-rusher to Buffalo. The one year deal is worth up to $9 million dollars (With a base value of $7 million). Floyd spent the 2022 season with the Los Angeles Rams where he tallied nine sacks in 17 games played. Since his rookie season in 2016, Floyd has split his time with the Rams and the Chicago Bears. In the 2021-2022 season he played alongside his then and now teammate Von Miller when Los Angeles won Super Bowl LVI over the Cincinnati Bengals.

Medaille University file photo

Sara Radt on the approach for Medaille (WIVB Photo)

Their school may be shutting down in August, but it looks like members of the Medaille University bowling program are still going to be able to compete. It was confirmed to WIVB-TV yesterday the team is going to become part of Niagara University’s squad. The official announcement is going to be made today at Classic Lanes. Since 2013, the Medaille program has made the NCAA Tournament on four occasions. They’ve also won six consecutive league bowling titles.

Ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Bills Stadium, 6/5/23 (Buffalo Bills photo)

The Buffalo Bills have revealed the name of their brand-new, more than one-billion-dollar facility in Orchard Park. A representative for the franchise says the building will be called Highmark Stadium, which of course, is the name of their current stadium – they’re just moving across the street. Among the attendees at a groundbreaking ceremony yesterday included Governor Hochul, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Bills owner Terry Pegula. The stadium will be owned by the state and is expected to open in 2026.

ELSEWHERE…

Uh huh

Americans may be paying more at the pump this summer. The Saudi Arabian government says it will cut oil production this summer, which will likely push gas prices higher in the U.S. The largest oil producer in OPEC will cut production by 1 million barrels a day from 10 to 9 million.

The Apple Vision Pro can be yours for $3500

Apple is unveiling its new $3,500 Vision Pro virtual reality headset. The company made the announcement Monday at its Worldwide Developers Conference event in California. Built with five sensors, six microphones, and 12 cameras, the pair of goggles will be available in the U.S starting in early 2024.

The Cheez-It rest stop is open for a limited time only.

The cheesiest roadside attraction has arrived in Joshua Tree, California. Cheez-It is inviting travelers to visit its unique rest stop and fuel up their car with the world’s first Cheez-It pump. It’s designed to pump bags of the cheesy snack inside the car. Travelers can also buy themed merchandise and find unique Cheez-It flavors at the connected shop.

I can understand why Mr. Taylor wishes to remain anonymous. Hmmm…I have some Taylor’s in my family…

A Queens, New York man is the winner of a record setting Mega Millions jackpot. The pot reached $476,000,000 (million) in April, but 71-year-old Howard Beach resident Johnnie Taylor chose to take the cash value, receiving a lump sum of more than $157,000,000 after taxes. Taylor recently retired from his job as a building handyman in Manhattan and plans to use the winnings to travel, buy a new home, and donate to his local church. The previous New York State record Mega Millions was a $437,000,000 jackpot sold in Huntington in 2019.

Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse promotional poster

Spider-Man is swinging to the top of the box office. “Spider-Man — Across the Spider-Verse” earned $120.5 million in its first weekend in theaters across the U.S. and Canada. The latest installment in the Spidey franchise scored the second-biggest opening of this year behind only “The Super Mario Brothers Movie” which made $146,000,000 (million) in its debut weekend.

Today is Tuesday, June 6th, the 157th day of the year.

June 6 in history…

Andrew Jackson was the first president to ride in a train similar to this ‘Iron Horse’ model.

…In 1833, Andrew Jackson became the first U.S. president to ride in a railroad car. On June 6, 1833, Andrew Jackson took a ride on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. This was the first time a United States President had ridden in a railway car. He rode from Ellicott’s Mill, MD to Baltimore (about 12 miles), and was reported pretty excited about the event.

The first YMCA in America was in Boston (photo from 1929)

…In 1844, the Young Men’s Christian Association, later known as the YMCA, was founded in London. The first YMCA in America was founded in 1851.

Pair of Levi jeans from the 1880’s

…In 1850, Levi Strauss made his first pair of blue jeans.

Fortunately, it was just temporary… (!)

…In 1932, the first federal gasoline tax was enacted. The tax was one-penny per gallon of gas.

1933 photo of the first drive-in theatre in Camden, New Jersey

…In 1933, the first drive-in theatre in the United States opened in Camden, New Jersey.

Normandy invasion, June 6, 1944

…In 1944, thousands of allied troops invaded the beaches of Normandy, France. The event, which later became known as D-Day, marked the beginning of the defeat of Nazi Germany by Allied Forces in World War Two. The invasion was a success and Germany surrendered less than a year later.

Ed Sullivan never had the chance to say ‘good-bye’ to his faithful viewers

…In 1971, “The Ed Sullivan Show” aired for the last time on CBS Television. CBS announced the cancellation of the show on Tuesday, March 30, 1971. When Sullivan took to the stage the previous Sunday night, March 28th, he did not know that would be his last show, but it was. They did not allow him to do a farewell show. Unfortunately, this is typically “how it’s done” in television. Most employers that fire talent feel that another chance on the air to say goodbye also opens the door for possible threats or complaints against the station or network, so they do it this way. Sullivan was reportedly furious and very hurt by this and really never forgave CBS for not letting him hit the 25 year mark and for the shabby way they parted ways. After Ed Sullivan’s last live-to-tape show, reruns from that 23rd season ran until June 6th. The last original Sullivan show aired on March 28, 1971 with guests Melanie, Joanna Simon, Danny Davis & The Nashville Brass, and Sandler and Young. The last show to air as a rerun, on June 6, 1971, featured Gladys Knight & the Pips singing “If I Were Your Woman” & “Bridge Over Troubled Water”. Jerry Vale sang “I Want To Make It With You”, Caterina Valente sang “The Girl from Ipanema” and Peter Nero played the theme from “Love Story” on his piano. Sid Caesar & Carol Channing performed a scene from the play “Four on a Garden”. For comic relief, there was Robert Klein and Pat Henry. The End. Literally.

Ted Koppel

…In 1978, ABC’s “20/20” debuted. The original host was Ted Koppel. He was replaced a week later by Hugh Downs.

The former teacher and principal of St Paul Lutheran School, Jason Clark, has pleaded guilty to one course of sexual conduct with a child in the second degree.  According to District Attorney Kevin Finnell, Jason Clark admitted Monday that he touched the chest of a female child two or more times over a period of time not less than three months in duration in 2015 and 2016.  As part of the plea deal, Clark agreed to surrender his teaching license and was placed on interim supervision by the Probation Department for one year.  Clark started working at St. Paul Lutheran in Batavia as a teacher in 2002. He became principal in 2019. He was charged in January with two counts of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree.

The family and lawyer of a convicted ax murderer are trying to get his name cleared after his death.  James Krauseneck was convicted of murdering his wife with an ax 40 years after the murder took place.  He filed an appeal but then died in prison of esophageal cancer before the appeal could take place.  According to the law, if a person dies while their case is being appealed they win automatically.  But Krauseneck’s wife and children want his name cleared officially.  The Monroe County District Attorney’s Office says they won’t spend the time and resources on a dead man’s case whether it is to convict or exonerate.  The family of the murdered woman say they don’t want a murderer wasting the courts time either.

A 16 year old boy has been arrested and is being charged in the deaths of 4 people, 3 of them children.  One, a 12 year old boy in Rochester.  According to the Lebanon County District Attorney’s Office, James Fernandez-Reyes and 22-year-old Alex Torres-Santos shot and killed three people — ages 8, 9 and 19 — Tuesday in Lebanon. A third suspect remains at large.  At the time of his arrest, Fernandez-Reyes also had an active warrant following a Sept. 20 arrest in Rochester. Police said he was issued an appearance ticket for possession of a loaded handgun. Fernandez-Reyes is also a person of interest in the Nov. 21 fatal shooting of 12-year-old Juan Lopez in Rochester.

A state trooper with a service record of over 16 years in the State Police and 22 years as a US Marine with tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, and was twice named trooper of the year, has been indicted for manslaughter over the shooting death of James Huber on February 12 of 2022.  Trooper Anthony Nigro the 4th attempted to stop Huber after he was seen driving erratically at over 100 miles per hour on I90 and I 190 in Buffalo.  He was stopped at the intersection of Washington and Eagle Street where Nigro approached him with his gun drawn and ordered him to exit the car.  Huber told him to go away and then is seen in bodycam footage reaching for something in the middle of the car when Nigro shoots him twice.  Huber then crashes the car, flipping it, and is pronounced dead at the scene.  No weapons were found at the scene.  The state trooper Police Benevolent Association President said that Nigro was acting within his training and the law and was justified in his use of force and cited Hubers dangerous behavior.  

The Buffalo Bills, NFL, New York State and Erie County came together Monday morning to hold a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the new Bills stadium.  The new stadium will be built across Abbott Road from Highmark Stadium and is expected to be completed by fall 2026. It will be a state-of-the-art canopy-covered stadium with a seating capacity of around 63,000 seats. The Bills said it will be the largest project ever built in Western New York.  A public-private partnership will cover the price tag. It was originally set to cost $1.4 billion, but will now cost $1.5 billion. The county will provide $250 million, the state will provide $600 million, and the Bills will cover the remainder of the price tag.

The Bills and linebacker Leonard Floyd have reached an agreement on a one-year deal to bring the versatile pass-rusher to Buffalo. The one year deal is worth up to $9 million dollars. With a base value of $7 million.  Floyd spent the 2022 season with the Los Angeles Rams where he tallied nine sacks in 17 games played. Since his rookie season in 2016, Floyd has split his time with the Rams and the Chicago Bears. In the 2021-2022 season he played alongside his then and now teammate Von Miller when Los Angeles won Super Bowl LVI over the Cincinnati Bengals.

Ceremonial groundbreaking of the new Bills Stadium. (Buffalo Bills photo)

The ceremonial groundbreaking at the site of the brand-new stadium for the Buffalo Bills was held this morning. Governor Hochul and Bills owner Terry Pegula were among the people holding ‘golden shovels’. The more than one-billion-dollar facility is located near Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. The state and the Bills are going to be covering most of the cost of this project. The hope is that the stadium will be open for the 2026 season.

This Thursday, June 8th, Dewey, Madison, Adams, and Orleans Avenues will be closed to all through traffic, for pavement resurfacing. Residents are asked not to park on these streets on Thursday. All motorists that regularly use these streets are asked to seek alternative routes while the closures are in place. Please contact the Bureau of Maintenance at 345-6400 (Option 1) with questions.

An Air Quality Advisory is issued for today, for the entire Western and Central New York regions. It’s in effect until midnight tonight. The pollutant of concern is particulate matter in part from the wildfires in the Montreal, Quebec region. (Particulate matter, also known as particle pollution, is a complex mixture of small solid particles and liquid droplets in the air. Some particulate matter, like soot, smoke, dust, or dirt, is large enough to see. Fine particulate matter is so small that it can only be seen through an electron microscope.)

James Huber

Anthony Nigro (center) in court today pleaded not guilty during his arraignment.

Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation today announced the indictment and arraignment of New York State Trooper Anthony Nigro IV on charges of Manslaughter in the First and Second Degrees. The indictment alleges Trooper Nigro shot and killed James Huber in Buffalo in February 12, 2022. Trooper Nigro was arraigned today in Erie County Supreme Court and pleaded not guilty. He was released on his own recognizance. Manslaughter in the First Degree is a Class B violent felony and carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and five years of supervised release. The history: On the morning of February 12, 2022, members of the New York State Police were pursuing Mr. Huber, who was speeding and driving erratically on Interstate 90 near Buffalo. The NYSP called off the chase when Mr. Huber exited the highway. A short time later, Mr. Huber stopped his car near the intersection of Washington Street and East Eagle Street in Buffalo. Trooper Nigro approached the car, and during an interaction with Mr. Huber, fired his service weapon and shot Mr. Huber, who was unarmed. Mr. Huber was pronounced dead at the scene.  (Released photos)

University of Rochester, Meliora hall (13WHAM file photo)

The FBI is now helping out with looking into a data breach that affected both students and staff at the University of Rochester. The school says that the breach was the result of a software issue with a product provided by a third-party file transfer company. The full impact of the breach is still unknown and everyone at the school is being urged to take action to protect their personal information. Anyone who notices suspicious activity with their account is asked to report it.

The cost of gas is holding steady. According to Triple A this morning, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now sitting at $3.55. The state average is $3.70 and in Batavia, we’re paying $3.65. That’s the same as it was a week ago; a penny less than a month ago but $1.09 less than it was a year ago today.

The New York State Thruway Authority is holding a virtual public hearing today from 4:00 – 7:00pm to get feedback from Empire State residents on proposed toll hikes.  Anyone who wants to take part in the hearing needs to register in advance. If these hikes are approved, E-ZPass holders would see a 5% toll increase next year followed by another 5% hike in 2027. Streaming of the meeting is available here: https://www.thruway.ny.gov/index.shtml

State lawmakers are expected to be back at the Capitol today to begin the final few days of this year’s legislative session. One bill that is still being debated is called the Clean Slate Act, which would allow some individuals who have completed their sentences to have their criminal records sealed after a specific period of time. There is also an ongoing push to pass good cause eviction legislation that’d limit the power of landlords to evict tenants. The legislative session is scheduled to end on Thursday.

The Muckdogs had their largest turnout for a home opener in Dwyer Stadium history on Saturday night with 3,711 in attendance to watch the Dogs take on the Elmira Pioneers. The Muckdogs were looking for a better start to their season after a loss on the road to Elmira and got it, with a 5-4 win. The night was also made more exciting by bands playing for the crowd, cheerleaders, and a fireworks display. The Muckdogs will be home again tomorrow night for a match up against the Niagara Power at 6:35.

The Buffalo Bandits celebrate their win – the fifth for the franchise.

Fans of the Buffalo Bandits can now get their hands on apparel to help them celebrate the team’s National Lacrosse League championship. The Bandits beat the Colorado Mammoth by a final score of 13 to 4 at KeyBank Center on Saturday night. It’s the first time that the Bandits have won a title since 2008. Championship shirts can be purchased online by going to bandits.com.

Ed Oliver (91)

Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver and the team have agreed to a 4-year extension. The deal is reportedly worth $68,000,000 (million) with 45 of that guaranteed. Last season Oliver racked up 34 total tackles, alongside two and a half sacks. Since being drafted 9th overall by the Bills in 2019, Oliver played in every game before the 2022 season in which he appeared in only 13 games. Oliver becomes the first defensive tackle signed through the 2024 season on Buffalo’s roster.

ELSEWHERE…

File photo of Strawberry Moon

The strawberry moon is lighting up the sky this weekend. It’s the last full moon of spring and the name comes from Native American tribes “to mark the ripening of ‘June-bearing’ strawberries that are ready to be gathered,” according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. NASA says the moon will appear full for three days, starting Saturday night. The space agency says it will shine brightest at 11:42pm.

Middletown, Pennsylvania High School

Seniors at a Pennsylvania high school have pulled off the ultimate senior prank. According to the TODAY Show, the students at Middletown devised a plan to stay up past their bedtime, sneak into their principal’s home and hideout until she woke up one morning. The principal of St. Andrew’s School was shocked to find out her husband was in on the prank and let them in hours earlier. They all had breakfast together before going back to their real homes.

A new report from the U.S. Postal Service shows that mail carriers have reason to be cautious of man’s best friend. The USPS reports that dogs attacked more than 5300 postal workers last year. Houston, Texas had the highest number of dog attacks on USPS workers last year with 57.

An electric version of Volkswagen’s iconic VW bus will be available in North American next year. The carmaker will start selling the VW ID Buzz in 2024. The VW bus hasn’t been sold in North American in two decades.

Alabama Governor signing a bill into law designating the ‘Yellowhammer Cookie’ the state cookie as the creator of the goodie watches.

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed a House Bill into law late last week, making the ‘Yellowhammer Cookie’ the official state cookie. She noted, “Sweet Home Alabama just officially got a little sweeter!” The cookie, which was invented by a Montgomery fourth-grader Mary Claire Cook, contains pecans, contains pecans and peanuts; both of which are recognized as crops of historical and agricultural significance in the state (the peanut is the state legume and pecans, the official state nut). The youngster collaborated with her grandmother to create the ‘Yellowhammer Cookie’, after her class at Trinity Presbyterian School began studying state symbols. The fourth-graders learned that the state didn’t have an officially named cookie, so they endeavored to make one. Cook’s entry was deemed the best of the 26 submitted by her and her classmates. And if you’d like to make it yourself, here is the recipe:

The Yellowhammer Cookie

Yellowhammer Cookies

Yield: 24 cookies

COOKIES:
· 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
· 2 teaspoons baking soda
· 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
· 1 teaspoon salt
· 1 1/2 cups butter, melted and slightly cooled
· 2 cups brown sugar
· 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
· 2 eggs
· 4 1/2 cups quick-cooking oats
· 24 pecan halves

FILLING:
· 1 cup peanut butter
· 2 tablespoons honey
· 1 cup powdered sugar
· 1/2 cup melted butter

BAKING AND ASSEMBLY:
1. In a bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, using a hand or stand mixer, beat together butter, brown sugar, vanilla, and eggs. Add flour mixture and stir well.
3. Add oats and continue beating until well mixed.
4. Cover and refrigerate dough for two hours.
5. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
6. Form dough into 48 1-1/2 inch balls and flatten. Arrange on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Place a pecan half on 24 of the cookies, which will become the top of the finished treat.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until set.
8. Make the filling: Mix peanut butter, honey, butter and powdered sugar and beat to combine, about three minutes.
9. Spread filling between two cookies, topping with the pecan-topped halves and sandwich together.

Today is Monday, June 5th, the 156th day of the year.

June 5 in history…

Attention: Register For Draft

… In 1917, American men began registering for the draft in World War One.

Henry Ford

…In 1937, Henry Ford initiated a 32-hour work week.

Senator Robert Kennedy

Sirhan Sirhan – most recently denied parole in March 2023

…In 1968, then Senator Robert F. Kennedy was shot by an assassin while campaigning for the Democratic U.S. presidential nomination in California. He died the next day. Gunman Sirhan Sirhan was arrested for the attack.

Striking GM workers

…In 1998, five assembly plants closed after workers walked off their jobs at a General Motors parts factory near Detroit. The strike crippled productivity nationwide for seven weeks.

Nancy and Ronald Reagan

…In 2004, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease, former President Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, died at his home in California at the age of 93. He appeared in 52 films and served as the President of The Screen Actors Guild for several years before he was elected Governor of the State of California and later President of the United States.

“Scooter” Libby in 2007, at the time of sentencing. He was later pardoned by President Trump.

…In 2007, former White House aide Lewis “Scooter” Libby was sentenced to 30 months in prison and fined $250,000. Libby was convicted in March on four felony counts of giving false statements to FBI agents and grand jurors looking into how the name of CIA operative Valerie Plame was leaked to the press.

At least one Buffalo Sports team can win championships.  Saturday night the Buffalo Bandits delivered on a moment 13 years in the making. Winning the franchise’s fifth National  Lacrosse League championship in a 13-4 win over the Colorado Mammoth in a home game.  Goaltender Matt Vinc recorded 46 saves on 50 shots. His four goals allowed has now set a NLL record for fewest goals against in the finals.  Also Josh Byrne scored 4 goals after coming out of injured reserve.  This win brings hope into Western NY that the Bills and Sabres might be next.

It is very dry outside.  How dry?  The sandwash caught on fire over the weekend.  A brush fire started at the Dewitt Recreational Area around 4pm on Sunday.  Batavia City Fire responded to reports of a burn spreading at the park.  The brush truck was called out and by about 4:45 the fire was knocked down.  The fire burned about 1 and a half acres.  The cause of the blaze is unknown at this time.  Another fire was reported at the McDonalds on West Main St Saturday at around 2:30pm when the outdoor drive thru speaker started sparking and smoking and set fire to the mulch on the ground nearby.  Firefighters were able to put it out quickly.

Gas Prices Update:  From AAA the average price for a gallon of regular gas in Batavia is 3.64 which is about a penny less than last week and 2 cents less than a month ago.  A year ago it was a dollar and ten cents higher.  The state average is 3.70 which is unchanged from last week and the national average is down a couple cents at 3.55.  These prices take into account memberships and discount cards.  Gas demand is down and the price of a barrel of oil dropped below 70 dollars.  Prices at the pump could go down as we get into the summer according to AAA.

State lawmakers are expected to be back at the Capitol today to begin the final few days of this year’s legislative session. One bill that is still being debated is called the Clean Slate Act, which would allow some individuals who have completed their sentences to have their criminal records sealed after a specific period of time. There is also an ongoing push to pass good cause eviction legislation that’d limit the power of landlords to evict tenants. The legislative session is scheduled to end on Thursday.

The Muckdogs had their largest home opener in Dwyer Stadium history on Saturday night with over 3700 fans piling into the stadium to see their team play the Elmira Pioneers.  The Muckdogs were looking for a better start to their season after a loss on the road to Elmira already.  They came in with a nailbiter 5 to 4 victory in front of their fans.  The night was also made more exciting by bands playing for the crowd, cheerleaders, and a fireworks display.  The Muckdogs will be home again tomorrow night for a matchup against the Niagara Power at 6:35.

In local sports news the Notre Dame Fighting Irish baseball team beat the Gowanda Panthers 6 to 5 on Saturday at Frontier High School to become Far West Regional Champions.  The Fighting Irish will next play Chatham of Section 2 on Friday at Maine-Endwell High School in the state semi-final.  Chatham is the defending Class C state champion and is currently ranked #1 in Class C by MaxPreps.  And the new Genesee County Spartans Semi Pro football team beat the New York Falcons in a shutout 13 to 0 game at GCC.  After a scoreless first half Quarterback Alex Rood and halfback Jed Reese ran in touchdowns to win the game.  It was the first official game of the season for the Spartans, a member of the Northern Football Alliance.  Their next game will be on Saturday in Lockport.

The New York State Thruway Authority is holding a virtual public hearing later today to get feedback from Empire State residents on proposed toll hikes. The meeting is scheduled to run from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. and it will be streamed online through the Thruway’s website. Anyone who wants to take part in the hearing needs to register in advance. If these hikes are approved, E-ZPass holders would see a five-percent toll increase next year followed by another five-percent hike in 2027.

Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver and the team have agreed to a four-year extension. The deal is reportedly worth 68 million dollars with a 45 million dollar guarantee.  Last season Oliver racked up 34 total tackles, alongside two and a half sacks. Since being drafted 9th overall by the Bills in 2019, Oliver played in every game before the 2022 season in which he appeared in only 13 games.  Oliver becomes the first defensive tackle signed through the 2024 season on Buffalo’s roster.

A Rochester man has been arrested for the production and possession of child pornography, some of which was created in an Orleans county church.  60 year old Stephen Nicot was arrested after an investigation into information that Nicot had cameras in his bathroom at his residence.  When the Sheriff’s Office executed a warrant on his home they discovered USB drives, Cell Phones, SD Cards and a laptop with recordings of young boys and grown men nude, in the bathrooms or showers.  Some of the videos were from his own bathroom, some appeared to be from a church in Orleans County. 5 victims have been identified.  If convicted the charges carry a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison.  

Due to the heat and the lack of precipitation Genesee County has issued a voluntary water restriction to residents.  They are urging residents to conserve water by not watering lawns and gardens and landscapes.  When watering plants try to do so in the early morning or at night to maximize water absorption.  Avoid watering in the middle of the day when heat will evaporate the water.  Avoid washing cars, filling swimming pools and fountains.  The restrictions are voluntary but if the lack of water continues they may become mandatory. 

Reporters became part of the story in Rochester when they witnessed a drive by shooting while recording for another story.  2 members of 13WHAM were interviewing someone on Rosewood Terrace when a vehicle pulled up and the occupants opened fire.  No one was injured and the news crew called the police immediately.  The incident happened not far from where a woman in her 70s was grazed by a bullet Thursday night while lying in bed at a home on Hazelwood Terrace. Police said two other nearby homes were also shot at within the next 10 minutes. The victim was treated on scene.

Officials from the National Football League, Buffalo Bills, New York State, and Erie County will take part in a ceremonial groundbreaking for the new Bills stadium in Orchard Park on Monday.  NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Buffalo Bills Owner and CEO Terry Pegula, Chief Operating Officer Ron Raccuia, General Manager Brandon Beane, and Head Coach Sean McDermott are set to participate in the ceremony along with local leaders.  The new stadium is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026 with a minimum capacity of 60,000 seats and maximum capacity of 63,000 seats. It will be built across Abbott Road from Highmark Stadium.

Sentencing for 40-year-old Joe Cortez of Batavia has now been delayed twice; this time, Cortez will have a psychological evaluation. His attorney observed that such an assessment might determine Cortez to be incompetent. He faces up to nine months in county jail for second-degree criminal contempt for violating an order of protection. Cortez is currently in Genesee County Jail. He faces multiple rape charges in Genesee County for allegedly having forcible sexual intercourse with a juvenile victim under the age of 17.

Kreisandra Colon (Released photo)

32-year-old Kreisandra Colon of Lyndonville has been sentenced to 364 days in county jail for endangering the welfare of a child. She allegedly had been using drugs in front of the child. Colon was terminated from a treatment court option after failing to meet conditions of the court. She acknowledged she used cocaine and attempted to bring in urine for a drug test that wouldn’t show substance use. Colon said in court that she wants to stop using drugs but has struggled.

An Air Quality health advisory is in place for the entire Western New York region due to high levels of ozone. Children, the elderly, and anyone with a health condition such as asthma, should be especially careful if they’re spending time outside today. Residents are urged to take the following energy-saving and pollution-reducing steps:
• use mass transit or carpool instead of driving, as automobile emissions account for about 60 percent of pollution in our cities;
• conserve fuel and reduce exhaust emissions by combining necessary motor vehicle trips;
• turn off all lights and electrical appliances in unoccupied areas;
• use fans to circulate air. If air conditioning is necessary, set thermostats at 78 degrees;
• close the blinds and shades to limit heat build-up and to preserve cooled air;
• limit use of household appliances. If necessary, run the appliances at off-peak (after 7 p.m.) hours. These would include dishwashers, dryers, pool pumps and water heaters;
• set refrigerators and freezers at more efficient temperatures;
• purchase and install energy efficient lighting and appliances with the Energy Star label; and
• reduce or eliminate outdoor burning and attempt to minimize indoor sources of PM 2.5 such as smoking. A toll-free Air Quality Hotline (1-800-535-1345) has been established by DEC to keep New Yorkers informed of the latest Air Quality situation.
Additional information on ozone and PM 2.5 is available on DEC’s website and on DOH’s website. To stay up-to-date with announcements from DEC, sign up for DEC Delivers: DEC’s Premier Email Service. Friday, June 2 Air Quality Health Advisory regions consist of the following: New York City Metro, which includes New York City, Rockland, and Westchester counties; Eastern Lake Ontario, which includes northern Cayuga, Jefferson, Monroe, Oswego, and Wayne counties; and Western New York, which includes Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming counties.

Brittny Robinson

Brionna Harris

Three people have now been arrested following an assault at a Niagara Falls Tim Hortons that was caught on camera. Footage that circulated on social media showed 37-year-old Brittny Robinson, 30-year-old Brionna Harris, and a teenager carrying out the violent attack against an employee at the chain’s store on Pine Avenue last weekend. The worker went to the hospital but has already been released. All three suspects are charged with gang assault.

A Webster woman could be spending a lot of time behind bars after pleading guilty to stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars from Wegmans. Prosecutors say 47-year-old Alicia Torres, a former Wegmans employee, used a program that’s used to fill prescriptions to process over $568,021.69 in fraudulent refunds. The money was taken between 2014 and February of this year. Torres is facing up to 20 years in prison when she’s sentenced in September.

State Police have released the results of their latest Memorial Day Weekend enforcement campaign. From Friday, May 26th through Tuesday, May 30th, there were over 13,400 tickets handed out for offenses like speeding, DWI, and distracted driving. Troopers also responded to more than 830 crashes but no deaths were reported. Last year, just under 14,000 tickets were issued during the Memorial Day Weekend enforcement campaign.

Police in Rochester during investigation of shooting death (13WHAM photo).

Rochester police are now investigating a homicide after the victim of a drive-by shooting died of his injuries. On Wednesday, 21-year-old Eric Martin had dropped a family member off at work on Dewey Avenue when he was hit by gunfire that came from a person in a vehicle. Martin was brought to a nearby hospital but later died. Police aren’t sure if the shooting was random or if Martin was targeted and are asking witnesses to come forward.

13WHAM Photo from home game earlier this week.

The Rochester Americans will be back on their home ice tonight as they look to keep their Calder Cup playoffs series alive. The Amerks host the Hershey Bears at Blue Cross Arena. Wednesday, they beat the Bears 4-1 and trail in the best-of-seven series 3 games to 2. Face-off this evening is set for 7:05.

The Buffalo Bandits will be back in action this weekend as they try and secure a National Lacrosse League championship. The Bandits are hosting the Colorado Mammoth in Game Three of the NLL Finals at KeyBank Center. Monday, the Mammoth defeated the Bandits in Colorado and tied the best-of-three series at one game apiece. There are still tickets available for the contest, which starts at 7:30 tomorrow night.

Undated file photo of Fairport Canal Days.

One of the largest fine arts festivals in the Northeast is going to be happening in the Finger Lakes this weekend. The Fairport Canal Days event gets underway today and runs through Sunday. It will feature over 200 artists, dozens of food vendors, bands, and merchants. The Fairport Perinton Merchants Association puts the nonprofit festival on each year. For more information, go to fairportcanaldays.com.

ELSEWHERE….

The handwritten lyrics of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” are on display at Sotheby’s in New York. An early draft appears to show lead singer Freddie Mercury was considering calling it “Mongolian Rhapsody” before crossing it out and renaming it. It’s part of thousands of Mercury’s personal belongings on display. They hit the auction block in September.

Today is National Doughnut Day. Some of the nation’s biggest chains will be dishing out free doughnuts, while supplies last. Freebies are on the menu at Dunkin’, Krispy Kreme, Duck Donuts, among others and a number of places will have buy one, get one free promotions. National Doughnut Day dates back to 1938 when the Salvation Army established it to honor the organization’s Doughnut Lassies. Those were women who traveled to France during World War One to serve up snacks to soldiers.

Bill Cosby – Victoria Valentino

A new accuser is suing Bill Cosby over an alleged sex assault. A former Playboy Playmate says the comedian drugged and raped her in 1969. Victoria Valentino seeks unspecified damages for sex assault and battery. She says Cosby attacked her in Los Angeles while he was starring in the TV show “I Spy.”

Hey Earth, no brake-checking…that asteroid is following a little too closely! (Artist rendition)

Scientists say a small asteroid has been following the Earth in its orbit around the Sun for over 2,000 years. The asteroid was discovered in March at an observatory in Hawaii, and is estimated to be about 50 feet in diameter. Scientists are calling it a “quasi-moon” because it orbits the Sun in a similar time frame as the Earth, though it’s roughly 9,000,000 (million) miles away.

Please play responsibly.

The jackpot for Mega Millions tonight is $203,000,000 (million), and the top prize for Powerball tomorrow evening is $262,000,000. Both drawings will be streamed live on their respective websites. Please play responsibly.

Today is Friday, June 2nd, the 153rd day of the year.

June 2 in history…

P.T. Barnum promotional poster from the late 1830’s.

…In 1835, P.T. Barnum kicked off his first U.S. circus tour.

Grover Cleveland marries Frances Folsom, 1886. The first sitting president to marry in the White House.

…In 1886, Grover Cleveland became the first sitting President of the United States to get married in the White House.

Joe DiMaggio with Lou Gehrig, 1936.

…In 1941, baseball’s “Iron Horse,” Lou Gehrig, died in New York of a degenerative disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Queen Elizabeth with Prince Philip during balcony coronation.

…In 1953, 27-year-old Queen Elizabeth the Second was crowned. The crowning became one of the first international news events given complete television coverage in England and the United States.

Demonstration of Heimlich maneuver on The Tonight Show in 1974. (NBC photo)

Paul Winchell

Artificial heart

…In 1974, The Heimlick maneuver was introduced. While Dr. Henry Heimlich is credited with developing the technique using abdominal thrusts to stop choking, his uncredited co-creator was the same man who invented the first artificial heart? We know him best as ‘the man behind a dummy’ and the creator of “Winchell Mahoney Time.” The genius inventor and innovator was ventriloquist Paul Winchell.

President Thabo Mbeki

…In 1999, South Africans went to the polls in their second post-apartheid election, giving the African National Congress a decisive victory. Retiring president Nelson Mandela was succeeded by Thabo Mbeki.

…In 2004, Ken Jennings began his 74-game winning streak on “Jeopardy!,” that ended with a total of $2,520,700. In total, including special appearances and competitions such as the “Ultimate Tournament of Champions,” Ken cleared approximately $4.5 million from the show. Not to mention, of course, the start of a brand new career for him.

Adam Weis

A pediatrician who was accused of inappropriately touching a child has reached a plea deal with prosecutors. Adam Weis of Webster admitted yesterday to touching the nine-year-old girl last November. Assistant District Attorney Kevin Sunderland said the victim was neither a patient nor a relative and there is information that suggests Weis victimized other children. Weis pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of child endangerment and will surrender his medical license and spend three years on probation. A five-year, no-contact order with the victim is also in place. He’s expected to be officially sentenced in August.

18-year-old Madison McKenzie of Batavia has been arrested and charged with criminal contempt and endangering the welfare of a child. It’s alleged she messaged a protected party under the age of 15, sending explicit texts and photos on Snapchat. McKenzie was arraigned in CAP Court and is scheduled to return to Pavilion Town Court later this month.

An air quality health advisory is in place for all of Western New York through 11:00pm this evening, due to concerns with high levels of ozone. Residents are urged to take the following energy-saving and pollution-reducing steps:

• use mass transit or carpool instead of driving, as automobile emissions account for about 60 percent of pollution in our cities;
• conserve fuel and reduce exhaust emissions by combining necessary motor vehicle trips;
• turn off all lights and electrical appliances in unoccupied areas;
• use fans to circulate air. If air conditioning is necessary, set thermostats at 78 degrees;
• close the blinds and shades to limit heat build-up and to preserve cooled air;
• limit use of household appliances. If necessary, run the appliances at off-peak (after 7 p.m.) hours. These would include dishwashers, dryers, pool pumps and water heaters;
• set refrigerators and freezers at more efficient temperatures;
• purchase and install energy efficient lighting and appliances with the Energy Star label; and
• reduce or eliminate outdoor burning and attempt to minimize indoor sources of PM 2.5 such as smoking. A toll-free Air Quality Hotline (1-800-535-1345) has been established by DEC to keep New Yorkers informed of the latest Air Quality situation.
Additional information on ozone and PM 2.5 is available on DEC’s website and on DOH’s website. To stay up-to-date with announcements from DEC, sign up for DEC Delivers: DEC’s Premier Email Service.
The Thursday, June 1 Air Quality Health Advisory regions consist of the following: New York City Metro, which includes New York City, Rockland, and Westchester counties; Eastern Lake Ontario, which includes northern Cayuga, Jefferson, Monroe, Oswego, and Wayne counties; and Western New York, which includes Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming counties.

The Cannabis Control Board approved a measure giving a law extra strength that Governor Kathy Hochul signed in May. The law increases civil and tax penalties for unlicensed and illegal sales of cannabis in the state. Businesses caught illegally selling cannabis by giving a “gift” with the purchase of a different product could face fines of up to $20,000 per day. Many shops in the Buffalo area are closing down because that was their way of doing business but those who are doing it legitimately are praising the decision. They say that this will create a better market and better customer consistency.

Trenten Sink, formerly of Lockport

Calvin Clemons

A now 18-year-old man charged in connection with a 2021 homicide in Buffalo has been sentenced for his role in that crime. Prosecutors say the suspect, who was 16 at the time of the murder, and his co-defendant 20-year-old Calvin Clemons, lured Trenten Sink to an address on C Street and intended to rob him. Clemons shot Sink who later died of his injuries. The 18-year-old defendant was ordered to spend 18 years to life in prison.

Father Melfi

The Diocese of Buffalo has announced that a priest is being allowed to return to active ministry. The Diocese says that Father F. Patrick Melfi was involved in a consensual sexual relationship with an adult woman in 2007. Due to the circumstances of the relationship and Melfi’s behavior since it ended, he can now resume his ministry. Melif was serving as a temporary parish administrator in Belfast, Cuba, and Fillmore when he was put on leave.

Malcolm Subban

The Rochester Americans are still alive in hunt for the Calder Cup after saving their season with a big victory on the road. The Americans were able to defeat the Hershey Bears by a final score of four-to-one at the Giant Center in Pennsylvania last night. Americans goaltender Malcolm Subban stopped 32 shots for his team, which is now trailing in the best-of-seven series three games to two. Game Six will be tomorrow night in Rochester and tickets are available for purchase online: https://www.amerks.com/tickets

The deadline for people to apply for the upcoming Buffalo Police Department entry exam has been extended again. Anyone interested in taking the test now has until tomorrow to sign up. This latest deadline change is due to what the department is calling Internet issues; however, the date of the exam is still set for Saturday, June 17th. The cost to take the test is $25 and more information can be found at buffalony.gov.

Taste of Buffalo, 2022 photo

Organizers of the 2023 Taste Of Buffalo have revealed the restaurants that are going to be participating in this year’s event. Those businesses include BW’s Barbecue, the Water Lily Cafe, Stack Burger and Osteria 166. The 40th annual celebration is taking place on July 8th and 9th along Delaware Avenue. The Taste of Buffalo has been recognized by USA Today as one of the top city food festivals in the country.

ELSEWHERE…

Rebecca Bliefnick

Timothy Bliefnick on Family Feud

A man who was a contestant on “Family Feud” is going to prison after killing his wife during a divorce and custody battle. Timothy Bliefnick was convicted on Wednesday for the murder of Rebecca Postle Bliefnick. He broke into the second-story window of her Illinois home in February and shot her 14 times.

Jericho Labonte

The ‘Goonies’ house, Astoria Oregon

Police are searching for the man accused of leaving a dead fish at the Goonies house in Astoria, Oregon then stealing and capsizing a boat. Police say a warrant is out for Jericho Labonte for failure to appear. In February, the 35-year-old was accused of leaving a dead fish on the porch and dancing around the property of the famous Goonies house in Astoria. Less than 48 hours later, police say Labonte stole a 35-foot yacht, got stuck in the rough waters at the mouth of the Columbia and the yacht capsized. That was caught on camera and the United States Coast Guard rescued Labonte. He faces a list of charges including first-degree theft and third-degree criminal mischief.

Danny Masterson

The actor who played Steven Hyde on “That ’70s Show” has been found guilty of raping two women. A Los Angeles jury convicted Danny Masterson on Wednesday of forcible rape. The jury said it was deadlocked on a charge related to a third accuser. Masterson could get 30 years in prison when sentenced.

Example of noise cancelling headphones

A teenager who was hit by a train in Upstate New York was wearing noise-canceling headphones when he was killed. The Broome County Sheriff’s Office says the 17-year-old was struck and killed Tuesday morning about 75 miles south of Syracuse. Investigators determined the teen couldn’t hear the train approaching because of the headphones.

Partial collapse of apartment building in Davenport, Iowa

The owner of the six-story building that partially collapsed in Iowa is being fined $300. Owner Andrew Wold is due in court next week in Davenport to pay a city fine for failing to keep the apartments safe, and also has to pay court fees. Demolition of the building has been put on hold, as five people remain unaccounted for after Sunday’s collapse.

Disney has met its goal of laying off 7,000 employees. Variety is reporting that notices to employees impacted during the third round of cuts were sent out last Friday. The layoffs focus mostly on the media divisions, while the parks themselves remain untouched for the most part.

Bruce Springsteen falling on stage. He was okay and able to continue the concert.

Bruce Springsteen is said to be ok after falling on stage while performing in Amsterdam over the weekend. The singer took a spill while going up a set of stairs. E Street Band members helped Springsteen back to his feet and the 73-year-old was able to finish the concert.

Today is Thursday, June 1st, the 152nd day of the year…

June 1 in history:

Edison’s Electric Vote Recorder

…In 1869, Thomas Edison received a patent for his electric voting machine.

Someone call la policia immediately!

…In 1944, the government of Mexico abolished the siesta.

Helen Keller

…In 1968, blind and deaf author and teacher Helen Keller died in Westport, Connecticut.

Screen capture of CNN’s first day of broadcast

…In 1980, the Cable News Network, also known as CNN, made its debut.

Jack Kevorkian with what he referred to as ‘The Thanatron’, or Death Machine.

…In 2007, controversial assisted-suicide doctor Jack Kevorkian was paroled from a Michigan prison after spending eight years behind bars. Kevorkian, who was labeled “Dr. Death,” claimed to be responsible for helping more than 130 people commit suicide. While he vowed not to participate in any more assisted suicide procedures upon his release from prison, Kevorkian said he planned to continue working toward the legalization of assisted suicide.

…In 2009, General Motors filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Conan O’Brien at The Tonight Show desk.

…Also in 2009, Conan O’Brien made his debut as the fifth host of NBC’s “The Tonight Show,” replacing longtime host Jay Leno who stepped down from the position just three days earlier. His “Tonight Show” stint was short-lived, however, lasting just several months. Conan was forced to vacate the post when Leno decided to return to the late night slot.

GCC and GCASA are partnering to do prevention work at the community college to provide alcohol and substance abuse services.  GCASA received a grant of roughly $98,000 annually for two years from the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports. It will enable GCASA to hire one full-time and one half-time prevention educator to work at GCC.  The two prevention educators will work out of an office in the Dean of Students area on the second floor of the campus’ main building, they will work closely with the college’s wellness specialist, Meghan Bernard.  Substance misuse can have lasting consequences for college students, including poor academic performance, assaults, injury and increased risk of developing substance use disorder.

A pediatrician from Rochester Regional Health reached a guilty plea Wednesday after being accused of inappropriately touching a child.  37 year old Dr. Adam Weis, pleaded guilty to endangering the welfare of a child for an incident that happened last fall at Weis’ home in Webster.  According to court paperwork, the incident caused the victim “mental anguish.”  Assistant District Attorney Kevin Sunderland said the victim was not one of Weis’ patient and was not a relative, and there’s information that suggests Weis victimized other children.  The plea includes three years of probation, a five-year no-contact order with the victim and the surrender of his medical license.

The Genesee County Highway Department would like to inform the public about an upcoming road closure on Lewiston Road between Route 77 and Knowlesville Road in Alabama. Beginning Monday, June 5, the road will be closed to all traffic for approximately three weeks to facilitate a culvert replacement project.  The culvert replacement project is an essential infrastructure improvement aimed at enhancing the safety and functionality of Lewiston Rd. The existing culvert will be replaced with a new culvert pipe to improve water flow under Lewiston Rd and ensure the long-term sustainability of the roadway.

The Cannabis Control Board approved a measure giving a law Governor Kathy Hochul signed in May, extra strength, on Tuesday.  The law increases civil and tax penalties for unlicensed and illegal sales of cannabis in the state. Businesses caught illegally selling cannabis by giving a “gift” with the purchase of a different product could face fines of up to $20,000 per day.  Many shops in Buffalo are closing down because that was their way of doing business but many who were doing it legitimately are praising the decision.  They say that this will create a better market and better customer consistency.

A beloved town mascot has been killed.  And eaten.  If you’ve ever traveled southeast of Syracuse you may have gone through Manlius and seen their famous swan, Faye, cruising on the pond in the center of town.  Faye had been cared for there since 2007 but on Sunday 3 teenagers hopped the fence and killed her, and then took her home and ate her.  18 year old Eman Hussan and his 2 friends, a 17 and 16 year old whose names have not been released, said they didn’t know the swan was a pet.  They said they thought she was just a large duck.  The town pond has been home to swans for 118 years.  Faye leaves behind 4 cygnets who will be raised there.  The teens are charged with Grand Larceny in the 3rd degree, criminal mischief in the 2nd, conspiracy in the 5th, and criminal trespass in the 3rd. 

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish walked away with the win in the match up to be the Section 5 Far West Regional Championship representative.  The score wasn’t even close with Notre Dame winning 17 to 4 against the class 2 champs Sodus.  Jaden Sherwood notched the win, allowing just three hits and four runs over five innings while fanning nine. Ryan Fitzpatrick came on in relief for the final two innings and recorded all six outs by Ks.  The game was played in Canandaigua.

Patrick McMillan

Marcus McMillan

An officer with the Albion Police Department pulled over a vehicle for speeding. During that traffic stop, it was determined the car had been reported stolen out of Broome County, New York. This resulted in the arrest of a father and son: 38-year-old Marcus McMillan and 21-year-old Patrick McMillan, both from Rochester. Both were released with appearance tickets to return to court at a later date.

Batavia Police have provided an update following investigation into the motorcycle accident on West Main Street last Friday. We previously reported that 34-year-old Gregory Vigiano of Batavia was struck by a vehicle operated by 37-year-old Rebecca Santiago of Stafford. Vigiano sustained serious injuries and was transferred to Strong via Mercy Flight and was in guarded-critical condition. The Police now tell us they have arrested 33-year-old Mark Flaming of Batavia on multiple counts, including leaving the scene of a personal injury accident. It was determined that after the initial collision, another motorcycle operated by Flaming, ran over Vigiano while he was down in the roadway and then fled the scene. Flaming was issued appearance tickets for a later date in Batavia City Court. Flaming also faces the following charges: tampering with evidence – attempting to alter the appearance of his motorcycle – having an unregistered and uninsured motorcycle, having improper plates and operating without a proper license.

Dr. Morris Wortman (13WHAM Photo)

One of the people killed in a small plane crash in Orleans County this weekend was Dr. Morris Wortman. Wortman was a famed fertility doctor in Brighton. But a lawsuit in 2021 alleged he fathered children of his patients through artificial insemination without them knowing. That lawsuit, and a second one, are still active and the rules in New York say the lawsuits can go on even though Dr. Wortman has died. If the plaintiffs want to continue, the defendant would be the doctor’s estate. The plane Wortman was in crashed Sunday in a farm field in Yates. The Orleans County Sheriff says the plane broke apart.

Rochester police are continuing their investigation into a shooting that sent one person to the hospital. A 27-year-old man was in the area of Fraser Street when he was hit by gunfire last night. As of the last update, the man was in critical condition.

Officer Piatek

Dareiouis Akbar

A 19-year-old man is facing an attempted murder charge after being accused of seriously hurting a Tonawanda police officer. On Monday night, Officer David Piatek was involved in the traffic stop of a stolen vehicle on Sheridan Parkside Drive. At one point, the operator of the vehicle, Dareious Akbar, allegedly drove off, which caused Piatek to be dragged about 60 feet. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

File photo of Governor Hochul during a visit to Buffalo earlier this month.

Governor Hochul says no decision has been made yet if asylum-seekers who are currently in New York City will be sent to Erie County. During a trip to Amherst yesterday, the governor said the state is still trying to figure out where those individuals would be housed. Potential locations include state college dormitories which are mostly empty because a majority of students have gone home until the fall semester. The governor also thanked Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz for showing a willingness to help asylum-seekers.

Meliora Hall at the University of Rochester (Photo: 13WHAM)

Officials with the University of Rochester have revealed when the school’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate is going to be lifted. It was announced yesterday the requirement will no longer be in effect for students, staff, and faculty at the University of Rochester Medical Center as of June 5th. People are being encouraged to stay up to date on their coronavirus vaccines and booster shots. The immunization rule was put in place to try to slow down the spread of the virus during the peak of the pandemic.

I’m not an expert but I’ll go out on a limb and say that this one is a fake…

Investigators with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles are continuing their crack down on the use of false license plates. Since January, more than 400 citations have been issued as part of a multi-agency campaign. Officials say fake plates are used to avoid tolls, vehicle registration fees, and detection from members of law enforcement. The DMV Commissioner also says that when someone uses a fake plate, hardworking taxpayers foot the bill for someone trying to cheat the system.

Senator Jeremy Cooney

State Senator Jeremy Cooney has announced that a settlement has been reached that effectively opens the door for business owners to obtain marijuana dispensary licenses for operation. The settlement comes after a Michigan-based applicant filed a lawsuit claiming New York discriminated against applicants applying from out of state — prompting a federal judge to block New York state from giving out marijuana licenses to five regions, including the Finger Lakes. All other regions in the state had since been cleared to move forward, but the Finger Lakes region was still held back by the injunction. The Office of Cannabis Management could not provide further details about when licenses will be issued to Finger Lakes applicants, until the settlement is finalized.

The Rochester Americans will be looking to keep their season alive in the Keystone State tonight. The Amerks are going to battle the Hershey Bears at the Giant Center in Pennsylvania. On Monday, Rochester fell to Hershey, 4-2 on their home ice and now trail in the best-of-seven series three games to one. Face-off is set for 7:00.

ELSEWHERE:

Rosalyn Carter

Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter has been diagnosed with dementia. The Carter Center made the announcement Tuesday saying “she continues to live happily at home with her husband, enjoying spring in Plains and visits with loved ones.” Former President Jimmy Carter entered hospice care earlier this year.

Peter DeLoca

A New York City attorney could face sanctions after his firm used artificial intelligence to craft a legal filing in a lawsuit. Peter LoDuca represented a client suing an airline in 2019. The airline moved to dismiss, and LoDuca filed a motion opposing the dismissal. His motion was generated using ChatGPT, which completely made up numerous legal decisions cited in the motion.

Al Pacino with girlfriend Noor Alfallah

Actor Al Pacino is becoming a father again at the age of 83. TMZ reports his 29-year-old girlfriend Noor Alfallah is eight months pregnant. She’s been linked to Pacino for just over a year. Pacino has three other children from two women.

File photo of Amazon workers protesting last November in Seattle. (Photo: NBC)

More than 1,700 Amazon employees plan to walk off the job today, calling for more flexibility with remote work. They also want the company to pay more attention to its climate impact. Nearly 900 of those workers plan to walk out of the company’s Seattle HQ. The move comes a month after Amazon started requiring employees to work from the office at least three days a week.

Nope, not yet…

The Writers Guild of America is targeting top executives’ pay in letters sent to major shareholders of Netflix and Comcast. On Tuesday, WGA president Meredith Stiehm urged shareholders to reject the “Say on Pay” proposal, which asks them to sign off on the company’s prior year pay packages. In the letters, Stiehm detailed the disparity in pay between top executives and writers.

May 31 in history…

Professor DeSmedt

…In 1870, Edward J. DeSemdt, a professor from Belgium, was awarded a patent for his invention of the improvement in laying asphalt pavement.

…In 1994, the U.S. announced it was no longer aiming long-range nuclear missiles at targets in the former Soviet Union.

In custody: Eric Robert Rudolph

…In 2003, accused serial bomber Eric Robert Rudolph was taken into custody in North Carolina, five years after eluding FBI and local police. Rudolph, who was on the FBI’s ten most wanted list, was the man suspected to be behind the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Park bombing which killed one person and injured 100 others. He was also a suspect in the bombing of an Alabama abortion clinic and a gay nightclub in Atlanta.

The man who claimed to be the Watergate ‘Deep Throat’, W. Mark Felt.

…In 2005, in an exclusive interview with “Vanity Fair” magazine, former FBI official W. Mark Felt said he was the mysterious informant known as “Deep Throat.” Felt said he was the one who leaked information to the “Washington Post” over break-ins at the Democratic Party offices at the Watergate Hotel during the Nixon administration. The information led to the resignation of U.S. President Richard Nixon in 1974. Felt’s admission marked the first time that a major potential source had claimed to be “Deep Throat.”

38 year old Batavia resident Heather Holbrook of Walnut Street was arrested on May 17th after a traffic stop on East Main where she was found to have an active warrant and significant amounts of illegal narcotics in her possession.  She was already wanted by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.  She is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 4th degree and intent to sell in the 3rd.  She was arraigned and released and will be back in court on Thursday

Evidence released on Tuesday appears to show the office of former Gov. Andrew Cuomo used state employees and state resources to help write Cuomo’s COVID-19 book “An American Crisis” during the height of the pandemic.  Cuomo was paid $5.1 million for the memoir — money state ethics panels have been trying to force him to return.  The Empire Center has released emails it obtained through Freedom of Information requests.  The emails show speechwriters on the state payroll sending messages soliciting and exchanging ideas about the writing of a project.  It begins with state-employed speechwriters Thomas Topousis and Jamie Malanowski talking about a preface as early as late March of 2020.  It goes on to ask for recollections of a specific meeting.  Despite all those emails, and the mention from one aide that this was under the direction of DeRosa, Malanowski claims he had nothing to do with what eventually became the Cuomo memoir.

St. Paul Lutheran School’s fifth- and sixth-grade classes and parents traveled to the Bath National Cemetery in Bath to participate in the laying of flags on all 20,000 grave sites for the commemoration of Memorial Day.  They joined the local fifth grade class that has been participating for the last 43 years. Their teacher, Mrs. Dunn, has a personal connection to the cemetery, as her grandfather, Vernon Rowe who was in the Navy, and her grandmother Pearl Jean Rowe, are buried there.  The students identified the Civil War, Spanish War, Korean War,  World War I and II sites among others including Medal of Honor recipients. All felt overwhelmed and honored to participate in this special day.

A man was hospitalized after a shooting in the city of Rochester Tuesday night.  Police responded to the area of Fraser Street for the report of two people shot.  Once there, they found 27-year-old man who was shot at least once. He was taken to the hospital with critical injuries, according to police.  Officers were unable to find a second victim.  No arrests have been made, and anyone with information is asked to call 911.

A major hurdle is now out of the way for those looking to own marijuana dispensaries in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region.  State Sen. Jeremy Cooney, who serves as chair of the Senate’s cannabis subcommittee, announced Tuesday that a settlement has been reached that effectively opens the door for business owners to obtain licenses for operation.  The settlement comes after a Michigan-based applicant filed a lawsuit claiming New York discriminated against applicants applying from out of state — prompting a federal judge to block New York state from giving out marijuana licenses to five regions, including the Finger Lakes.  All other regions in the state had since been cleared to move forward, but the Finger Lakes region was still held back by the injunction.  The Office of Cannabis Management could not provide further details about when licenses will be issued to Finger Lakes applicants, until the settlement is finalized.

Genesee County Youth Bureau will be hosting its 20th annual Family Game Night from 5 to 7 p.m. this Friday at the David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena, 22 Evans St. in Batavia.  The night will consist of interactive booths with activities, games and prizes for families and youth serving organizations. This event is free and includes pizza and assorted beverages.  Each family will take home one brand new board game after they visit each booth so they can start their own family game night!  Just for attending you will be entered into a raffle to win one of several prizes from businesses all around Genesee County.  Following the event, please stick around for free roller skating with your family!  Adults must be accompanied by a child to receive the board game.  For more information or to register call the Youth Bureau at 585-344-3960.

Two people have died as a result of an airplane crash in the Town of Yates. Just before 6:00pm on Sunday, the pilot 70-year-old Earl Luce Jr., of Brockport and his passenger, 72-year-old Morris Wortman, of Rochester, were pronounced dead at the scene. According to deputies, a mechanical failure appeared to have caused the hand-built, experimental aircraft to come down. The preliminary investigation suggests that the wings of the aircraft became detached from the fuselage and fell to the ground landing in an apple orchard. The fuselage of the aircraft then continued west for up to 1500 yards before crashing into a pasture behind a residence. The investigation continues with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration. (Released photo)

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants today, tomorrow and Thursday, from approximately 9:00am to 3:00pm in the general area of north of Main Street and east of Bank Street. Homes and businesses nearby will be affected. These tests may result in a temporary discoloration of water in that area. Do not attempt to wash any clothing if your water appears discolored. If you do experience a discoloration, run cold water for about 5 minutes or until clear. This annual testing is essential to maintain the communities class III Insurance Services Office (ISO) public protection classification and to assure that fire hydrants are operating efficiently for fire protection purposes. Along with maintaining the fire rating, the test monitors the health of the city’s water system, identifies weak areas in the system, and removes material that settles in the water lines. Checking each hydrant improves fire department personnel’s knowledge of the hydrant locations. If you have questions, or should notice a hydrant in need of repair, please contact the fire department at 585-345-6375.

31-year-old Nathaniel Beglinger of Alexander has been arrested and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia, as well as obstructed view. These charges stem from a traffic stop on East Main Street in Batavia where he was the vehicle operator and was alleged to have the controlled substance. Beglinger was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court next week. ALSO, 23-year-old Chantel Holmes of Batavia is charged with assault and criminal mischief. She was arrested on these charges as she was appearing in court on another matter. It’s alleged Holmes was at a residence on Ellicott Street and struck an individual in the head with a shovel causing injury and also damaging property. She was arraigned and released to return to court on another date. ALSO, 24-year-old Teesean Ayala of Batavia is charged with trespass, obstruction of governmental administration and criminal impersonation. Batavia Police responded to a call about a male entering driveways and checking car door handles. They located and apprehended Ayala following a foot pursuit through back yards and the northeast section of the city. He is due to appear in Batavia City Court next week for arraignment. ALSO, 56-year-old Kevin McCoy of Batavia is charged with trespass and harassment. He was arrested following a physical altercation, which occurred at a local business on East Main Street. McCoy was arraigned and is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court today.

Someone in the Village of LeRoy is getting a thousand dollars a week for the rest of their life. A CASH4LIFE lottery ticket sold at Crosby’s on West Main is worth the second highest amount of a thousand a week or a guaranteed payout of a million dollars. It was sold on Sunday. The winner’s identity has not been released.

The latest data from the New York State Flu Tracker shows that the spread of the illness continues to hold steady in our region. During the week ending May 20th, the area with the highest number of cases was Monroe County with 41; Erie County had 25. Ontario County had the next-highest total during that time period with nine infections; Wayne County had just three and Niagara County, 2. There were no flu cases reported in Genesee County. Since flu season began, nearly 337,000 New Yorkers have tested positive for the virus.

Rochester police are continuing to investigate two homicides that happened over the holiday weekend. A 42-year-old man was shot and killed during a bar fight at Flour City Station on East Avenue around 2:00am yesterday. About an hour later, a teenage girl was murdered after she was caught in the middle of gunfire between two groups that were shooting at each other. No arrests have been made in either case.

Genesee River, Irondequoit (file photo)

A body has been removed from the water following a possible drowning in the Genesee River in Irondequoit. Crews were called to the area yesterday after getting a report from the individual’s family that they hadn’t been seen since Sunday night and that their sandals were spotted floating in the river. A dive team was able to get the person’s remains out of the water and bring them to shore. The name of the person hasn’t been released but foul play isn’t suspected in their death.

Gas prices continue to hold steady. According to Triple A, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $3.58; the state average is $3.71. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.64. That’s down 3 cents from a month ago and $1.20 less than it was a year ago today.

The Buffalo Bandits still have some work to do if they want to win a National Lacrosse League championship. The Bandits fell short of securing the title yesterday after falling 16-to-10 to the Colorado Mammoth at Ball Arena in Denver. That means the best-of-three series is now tied at one game apiece. The series now shifts back to Buffalo for a decisive Game Three this Saturday night at the KeyBank Center. Tickets are available online.

13WHAM Photo

The Rochester Americans are on the brink of elimination after suffering a loss in front of their home crowd. The Americans gave up three goals in just over five minutes as they fell to the Hershey Bears 4-2 at Blue Cross Arena last night. The Amerks now trail in the best-of-seven series three games to one. Game Five is set for tomorrow night in Pennsylvania.

ELSEWHERE…

Natalia Grace Barnett

The Barnett family, prior to Natalia’s adoption.

You better sit down for this story:  Michael and Kristine Barnett and their family were at an Indiana dairy farm to celebrate the birthday of one of their sons. The family was walking near an electric fence on the property — but their adopted daughter Natalia Grace said she needed to stop. Kristine stayed back with Natalia while Michael and their three sons continued to walk ahead. A short time later Barnett and his sons heard sirens. “The second I heard the sirens, I thought, ‘Kristine is dead,’” Barnett said. He added: “Natalia had been trying to pull Kristine into the fence.” The couple claimed when they adopted Natalia in 2010 they believed they were adopting a 6-year-old girl. Soon after, they claimed they became suspicious of her age, leading to a bombshell claim: that Natalia, who has a form of dwarfism called spondyloepiphyseal, was merely posing as a child — was really an adult woman with sinister intentions. The Barnett’s alleged Natalia tried to harm them and their biological children. The couple claimed that Natalia not only tried to electrocute Kristine but attempted to poison Kristine’s coffee and placed clear thumb tacks on the stairs face up so that they would step on them. In 2012, two years after Natalia was adopted by the Barnett’s, the couple petitioned Marion County Probate Court to have her age legally changed to 22, changing her birth year from 2003 to 1989. The following year, the couple moved with their three sons to Canada without her, leaving her alone in an apartment in Lafayette. The Barnett’s, who later divorced, were charged with neglect of a dependent. Prosecutors couldn’t charge the couple with neglect of a child because of Natalia’s court-ordered age change. Michael was found not guilty of three counts of neglect and conspiracy to commit neglect of a dependent in 2022. The Curious Case of Natalia Grace airs across three consecutive nights on Investigation Discovery (channel 138 if you have Spectrum TV Select). It began last night and airs tonight and tomorrow night from 7:00pm – 11:00pm.

The Powerball jackpot is rolling over. With no grand prizewinner in Monday night’s drawing, the jackpot jumps to $239,000,000 (million) If you take the cash option, they’ll write a check out to you for $121,000,000. The top prize for tonight’s Mega Millions drawing is $187,000,000. Please play responsibly.

Taking vitamins and going on walks can help slow cognitive decline in aging brains. Studies out last week found that a daily multivitamin can effectively take three years off your brain’s age when it comes to memory. Similarly, researchers say taking 30 minute walks three or four times a week can lead to better memory.

Photo from Her Majesty’s trip to California in 1983. President Reagan; Queen Elizabeth; Nancy Reagan; Prince Philip. (Photo: NBC)

The FBI has released documents revealing a potential assassination attempt during a royal visit to California 40 years ago. About a month ahead of a 1983 West Coast visit by Queen Elizabeth the Second and Prince Philip, an unidentified man called authorities claiming his daughter had been killed in Northern Ireland. He said he planned to “harm” Queen Elizabeth either when her yacht crossed under the Golden Gate Bridge during the royal couple’s San Francisco visit or when they visited Yosemite National Park.

The next COVID vaccine booster shot will target one of the newest variants that is now dominant in the U.S. That’s according to the Wall Street Journal, which cited sources saying three Omicron sub-variants are under consideration for the updated shot. FDA vaccine advisers are set to meet next month to make their recommendation on which strain should be targeted.

May 30 in history…

Pennsylvania Evening Post from December 31, 1776, prior to it becoming a daily publication.

…In 1783, “The Pennsylvania Evening Post” became the first daily newspaper in the United States.

…In 1868, Memorial Day was observed for the first time in the United States. It was originally called Decoration Day because General John A Logan had seen women decorating graves of Civil War heroes.

A vehicle in New York City during the 1890’s.

…In 1896, the first-ever automobile accident occurred in New York City when Henry Wells struck cyclist Ebeling Thomas who suffered a fractured leg.

The Lincoln Memorial on dedication day, May 30, 1922.

…In 1922, the Lincoln Memorial was dedicated in Washington, D.C., following 8 years of construction.

Evel Knievel in mid-jump.

…In 1967, daredevil Evel Knievel jumped a row of 16 automobiles in a motorcycle stunt at Ascot Speedway in Gardena, California.

…In 1985, ABC Television announced all World Series baseball games would be played at night in order to attract the biggest audience possible. The 1985 Kansas City Royals season was the 17th season in Royals franchise history. It ended with the Royals’ first World Series championship over their inter-state rivals, the St. Louis Cardinals.

Two people died after an airplane crash Sunday evening in Orleans County around 6pm in the Town of Yates.  The pilot was 70 year old Earl Luce Jr, of Brockport and passenger was 72 year old Morris Wortman, of Rochester.  According to deputies, a mechanical failure appeared to have caused the self-made plane single engine fixed wing experimental craft to come down.  The preliminary investigation indicates that the wings of the aircraft became detached from the fuselage and fell to the ground landing in an orchard. The fuselage of the aircraft continued west approximately 1000 to 1500 yards before crashing into a pasture behind a residence.  The Federal Aviation Administration is assisting with the investigation.

Rochester’s Memorial Day weekend was marred with tragedy as 2 separate shootings resulted in 2 deaths and one injured.  The first shooting was at 2 am Monday outside Flour City Station on East Ave.  Rochester police said a fight at the bar led to a man pulling out a gun, shooting a security guard and a 42-year-old man, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The security guard is expected to survive.  An hour later, on Holland Street, police said a teenage girl was shot and killed after being caught in the crossfire of two groups.  Investigators reported a large group was gathered in a parking lot behind the Anthony Jordan Health Center, before the gunfire erupted.

Someone in the Village of LeRoy is getting a thousand dollars a week for the rest of their life.  A CASH4LIFE lottery ticket sold at Crosbys on West Main is worth the second highest amount of 1000 a week or a guaranteed payout of a million dollars.  It was sold on Sunday.  The winner’s identity has not been released.

Investigators are looking into the cause of a three alarm fire in Buffalo that injured three firefighters, and left more than a dozen people homeless.  Smoke from the massive blaze on Hagen Street could be seen for miles.  Crews say a car caught on fire, with the flames quickly spreading to a pair of nearby homes.  The call came out around 11:30 Sunday morning.  Crews spent several hours at the scene.  Combined damage to the two homes and the car is estimated at nearly $500,000.  The 3 firefighters injuries are non life threatening and the Red Cross is helping the 16 people with temporary housing.

Local teams are racking up the wins.  Notre Dame Lady Irish won the Class D1 Sectional Finals in Softball with a 5 to 2 victory over Lyndonville Saturday afternoon.  Notre Dame now moves on to face the D2 champion tonight in Fillmore.  The Fighting Irish beat Bolivar Richburg 3 to 0 in the Class C2 Title Game.  They will face Sodus tonight in Canandaigua.  Batavia High School girls track took first in the Class B1 Sectional Competition with 172 points.  The Oakfield-Alabama/Elba Boys Track team picked up a sectional title in Class B3.  OAE scored 186 points, well ahead of second-place Rochester Academy Charter, with 72 points.

There’s lots of fun to be had as we celebrate the unofficial start of summer here in Western New York.  Niagara Amusement Park and Splash World opened for the season on Grand Island Saturday.  The operators of the theme park say right now the water park, Kiddie Land and Western Town are open, but more rides and attractions will be added over the next several weeks.  This is where the old Fantasy Island theme park used to be.  Niagara Amusement Park and Splash World will be open weekends only through mid-June, and open daily after that.

A pilot and passenger have lost their lives following a small plane crash in Orleans County. The aircraft went down yesterday behind a residence on Townline Road in the Town of Ridgeway. The sheriff says it appears a catastrophic mechanical issue led to this tragedy. The names of the people onboard have not been released yet.

Memorial Day has arrived, and there will be parades taking place around the region today.
In Batavia, The Memorial Day parade steps off from the East Towne Plaza at 9:30 this morning and travels west down Main Street to Bank St.
Parades are also planned in Alexander, Bergen, Byron, Corfu, Elba and LeRoy.
Memorial Day ceremonies will follow most of those parades.
A complete list of Memorial Day Parades and Observance.

Lottery players will be hoping that luck is on their side as they try and win tonight’s Powerball jackpot. The prize up for grabs is now 226-million-dollars after no one correctly picked the winning numbers for Saturday’s drawing. The cost of a ticket to play the game is just two dollars. Anyone who wants to watch this evening’s drawing can do so live at powerball.com.

A downtown Batavia Restaurant is closing to take their business mobile.
Island’s Hawaiian Grill will close on June 10th.
Owners of the eatery said they will transition to a food truck operation.
The restaurant has been opened for four years. Customers holding gift certificates can get a full cash refund.

Paroled Murderer pleads guilty to production and possession of Child Porn.  48 year old Israel Rivera-Reyes of Rochester pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to production of child pornography. Between August 2021 and February 2022, Rivera-Reyes had sexual intercourse with a Minor Victim on an almost daily basis, knowing that the victim was a minor. During this time, Rivera-Reyes produced multiple videos of himself engaging in sexual intercourse with the Minor Victim. At the time of his arrest, Rivera-Reyes was on parole for a March 1995 conviction of Murder 2nd Degree.  The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of 30 years. 

A 24 year old Rochester Woman has been convicted of assault on an airplane.  April 19, 2022, Cynthia McKnight was a passenger on an American Airlines flight from Buffalo to Chicago. After the aircraft’s doors were closed, and while the aircraft was still on the ground, McKnight made her way to the front of the aircraft and engaged in a verbal altercation with one passenger, then spat on another passenger. As a result, the plane had to return to the gate. McKnight then tried to jump out of the plane while it was taxiing, pushing a flight attendant in the process who had attempted to prevent her from opening the door. McKnight was able to open the door, which deployed an emergency slide, and jumped.  The Assault charge was for the spitting and pushing.  She was sentenced to time served and 3 years of probation.

The construction project to restore the front of the Former Sheriffs Office building on West Main Street in Batavia is nearly done.  It cost nearly 1.8 million dollars to do a restoration of the brick and Medina sandstone façade.  The contract for the work was awarded to Montante Construction last June after the County Legislature realized that delaying the restoration project had only driven up the cost.  The façade of the historic structure was crumbling, with large bits of sandstone falling away from the building.  Workers removed all the sandstone and restored the underlying masonry before putting the sandstone back in place.  Currently, the former Sheriff’s Office is the office of Genesee Justice, but Genesee Justice, and the jail behind it, will relocate later this year to the new jail facility being built by County Building #2 on West Main Street Road.  County Manager Matt Landers said Thursday evening that the county is still evaluating possible uses for the building and is going to have SMRT, the architectural firm working with the new county on the new jail, assist in that evaluation process.

There are a lot of ceremonies and observances planned for Memorial Day on Monday.  All ceremonies will include full military honors: Wreath Laying, Rifle Salute & Taps.  Here is a list of those taking place in Batavia:  At 7 The Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 193 will be at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at Genesee County Park.  At 8 a ceremony will honor the 35 from Batavia who died in WW1 in a ceremony at Williams Park at the WW1 Memorial.  At 8:30 the Veterans Administration sponsors a ceremony at the Main Flagpole at the VA Medical Center.  8:45 a ceremony at the NYS Veterans Home Flagpole.  At 9:30 a memorial at the Veterans Plot on Harvester Ave to honor veterans buried at Elmwood and St Joseph’s cemeteries.  At 10 at the Upton Monument for those who died in the Civil War and all wars since.  And 10:30 at UMMC Jerome Center Genesee County War Memorial.  The memorial day parade starts at 9:45.

Anthony Armstrong, Jr.

34-year-old Anthony Armstrong Jr. of Rochester has been indicted for the standoff on Walnut Street in Batavia. He faces multiple felony charges, including 1st degree burglary, unlawful imprisonment, and criminal possession of a weapon; as well as multiple misdemeanor criminal mischief charges. These all stem from the March 20th incident at 46 Walnut Street that began with a 9-1-1 hang-up call. Armstrong and a tenant in the apartment house had gotten into an argument and the tenant wanted Armstrong removed. Armstrong then entered another apartment in the building, barricaded himself inside and held the tenant against their will. He was armed with a knife and made threats to harm himself and created for the victim perceptions of fear for their own safety. Armstrong damaged property and refused to allow the victim to call for help. After approximately five hours, Armstrong was taken into custody, brought to the hospital for evaluation and then released to the custody of Batavia Police.

Michael Burham

The Jamestown-area resident who was arrested following a search that lasted nearly two weeks has made his first court appearance. Yesterday, 34-year-old Michael Burham was in a South Carolina courtroom to answer to a charge of unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. Burham was taken into custody Wednesday and was wanted by Jamestown police in connection with crimes such as murder, arson and rape. There’s still no word yet when he’ll be extradited back to this area.

Governor Hochul says action is being taken to reduce the danger that’s posed by xylazine. Xylazine is a non-opioid that has been found in drug supplies and it can have serious health effects, especially when mixed with fentanyl. It’s also not responsive to Narcan, which is used to help stop overdoses. The governor says drug-testing strips will be available for free from the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports and Office of Mental Health. The strips detect xylazine that might have been combined with other drugs.

Undated file photo of Buffalo Marathon runners.

Thousands of runners are going to be in Western New York this weekend to take part in the Buffalo Marathon. The 26-point-two-mile and 13-point-one mile races will be held on Sunday. There will be road closures in place near the marathon route, so drivers may want to plan ahead. Registered runners should know there’s no race day packet pickup this year. For more information, go to buffalomarathon.org.

38-year-old Carl Wilson of Buffalo has been convicted of aggravated bank robbery. Investigation revealed that he and an accomplice, armed with a pistol and wearing masks and gloves, entered the Clarence Community and School Federal Credit Union in Clarence. He ordered all the employees to the ground and demanded money. Wilson went behind the teller line and went through their cash drawers. . He was sentenced to serve 72 months in prison and has to pay restitution of nearly $148,793.90.

The fire was contained to a shop class. No one was injured.

Students and staff at Webster Schroeder High School are going to be getting a day off today due to classes being canceled because of a fire. The fire happened yesterday and was later connected to a piece of shop class equipment. Everyone at the school ended up being evacuated as a precaution and didn’t return for the rest of the day. There were no injuries reported. (Photo: WIVB-TV)

Travis Green (center) pleads guilty to 2017 shooting.

The man who pulled the trigger in a shooting at a Dollar General in Cheektowaga is going to be spending time in prison for committing that crime. Prosecutors say 43-year-old Travis Green walked into the store on Union Avenue back in 2017 and requested an application. He later became upset and went out to his vehicle, grabbed a rifle, and opened fire towards the business. One customer was shot but survived their injuries. Green is facing up to 25 years behind bars when he is sentenced in July.

Luis Rodriguez and Stephanie Chavez

Two Ontario County residents have been arrested after being accused of abusing a three-year-old girl. Investigators say that 38-year-old Luis Rodriguez and 29-year-old Stephanie Chavez attacked the child over a period of several days. They were taken into custody yesterday at an apartment complex in Farmington and are charged with assault. Officials haven’t revealed how badly the girl was hurt.

Unnamed individuals, unknown location in undated photo of police conducting sobriety test.

With a lot of people hitting the road for the holiday weekend, police across New York State are going to be keeping a very close eye out for impaired drivers and reckless drivers. A special enforcement period gets underway today and it will run through May 30th. Drivers can expect to see an increased number of sobriety checkpoints and more patrols on the roads. Folks who are planning to drink are urged to make sure they have a safe ride home. If you spot someone driving erratically, please call 9-1-1.

ELSEWHERE…

Long overdue library book on display.

This book was due to be returned to the library in 1927.

An overdue library book in California has been returned after nearly 100 years. The St. Helena Public Library in Napa Valley says a book called “A History of the United States” was due back in February of 1927. Napa Valley resident Jim Perry, who said it’s been in his family for five generations, finally returned the book earlier this month. Perry said he decided to return it because it had the library’s name stamped on it and was unaware of its significance. Overdue fines for the book would have totaled over $1,700, but fortunately for Jim Perry, the library stopped collecting fines in 2019.

An increasing number of Americans are pessimistic about retirement. A Gallup poll showed that 43% of those who have yet to retire expect they’ll live comfortably when they do retire. That’s down from 48% last year.

A new study is zeroing in on the 12 most common symptoms of long COVID. Hundreds of symptoms have been reported but among the most common are ongoing fatigue, brain fog, thirst, dizziness, and chest pain. Others include a cough, abnormal movements, upset stomach, loss of taste, lack of sexual desire, and feeling sick after physical activity.

Somebody tell them they need to buy a ticket first…

The Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots continue to climb. The prize up for grabs for Mega Millions tonight is $169,000,000 (million). And, whoever is lucky enough to pick all six winning numbers for Powerball tomorrow night will get $211,000,000. Both drawings will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

May 26 in history…

Political cartoon published in 1836 referencing the Gag Rule.

…In 1836, the United States House of Representatives adopted the Gag Rule. The rule was adopted to restrict needless, long discussions in Congress.

Dutch Boy was one of the original companies included in the 1896 Dow Jones Industrial Average.

…In 1896, the Dow Jones Industrial Average, comprised of 12 “smokestack” companies, made its debut.

George “Human Fly” Willig climbing South Tower of the World Trade Center.

…In 1977, George Willig scaled the World Trade Center in New York City. Known as the Human Fly, Willig attached himself to a window washing mechanism and walked straight up the building. He was arrested and fined $1.10, a penny for every floor.

Lisa Marie Presley and Michael Jackson get married, 5/26/94. Somehow this union lasted 20 months.

…In 1994, Michael Jackson married Lisa Marie Presley in a secret ceremony in the Dominican Republic.

Friz Freleng at his drawing board.

…In 1995, Warner Brothers animator and cartoon producer Friz Freleng died at the age of 89. He created such popular characters as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Sylvester and Tweety.

The debate over migrants coming to western New York is sparking protests in Buffalo as Legislators attempt to stop County Executive Mark Poloncarz from allowing busloads of undocumented immigrants to be brought into Erie County.  Legislator Jim Malczewski is arguing that bringing in migrants will take services away from residents.  There are protests near the county building by migrant and refugee services organizations holding signs saying asylum is a human right and shouting “No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here.”  They accuse Malczewski and counties that have declared states of emergency of hate and racism.  Critics of immigration policy say that most people who claim asylum are just using it as an excuse to get into the country illegally and then take advantage of the United State’s resources and generosity.

The First Presbyterian Church in Batavia, no stranger to controversy, is setting itself up to go against Genesee County’s state of emergency by offering housing, food, clothes and other necessities to any undocumented immigrants who come to the area.  Pastor Alkhouri cited Matthew 25 where Jesus tells His followers that those who will be saved will be the ones who feed, clothe and take care of the least of their neighbors as a reason she is ready to take in migrants.  First Presbyterian already participates in programs that help people released from ICE facilities in the area and sees this as an extension of that mission.  County Manager Matt Landers says that Genesee, along with 22 other NY counties including Monroe County are already stretched too thin and that any organization that welcomes in migrants should come talk to him first.

4 teens were arrested in Rochester after they allegedly stole a car and were breaking into others.  2 17 year olds and 2 15 year olds were taken into custody after police responded to a disabled car on 490 on the westbound side near Golf Rd around 2 am on Thursday.  A person at the scene said their car had been stolen a day before.  At around 4:20 am police responded to reports of people breaking into cars on West Commercial St in East Rochester.  The teens were determined to be connected with the abandoned car.  Deputies charged the group with two counts of criminal possession of stolen property. They were issued appearance tickets, and three of them were released from custody. One of the 15-year-olds was turned over to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office on an outstanding warrant.

Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse officials on Wednesday afternoon honored six “friends” of the nonprofit agency and five GCASA Foundation scholarship winners at their annual meeting at Terry Hills Restaurant.  Friends of GCASA awards went to the City of Batavia Fire Department, Orleans County Sheriff’s Deputy Matt Prawel, Patrick Cecere, Heather Jackson, Mercy Flight EMS and the United Memorial Medical Center MOMS Program.  Scholarship recipients for 2023 are Carly Cerasani, Arianna Hale, Valerie Pastore, Lauren Reimer and Lilly LeTourneau. They each received $1,000 for enrolling in fields relating to human services or social services.

The Community Garden at Emmanuel Baptist Church is ready for planting and there are still several plots available for prospective gardeners.  The raised planters have been built, sod and seed have been delivered, and the water tank has been filled.  All the garden needs is hands to turn the soil and plant the season’s harvest.  There are 20 plots total and just over half have been spoken for.  If you are interested in a place to grow, call 585 343 4905. 

Do you have an old tv or computer or printer lying around that you just haven’t been able to take to the recycler?  Assemblyman Steve Hawley is once again partnering with the Sunnking recycling group to offer free electronic device collection and recycling for the community. Collection day will be Saturday, June 17, from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the parking lot at 5130 E Main Street Road in Batavia.  Pre-registration is requested of all attendees.  To register, follow the link at wbtai.com:  https://form.jotform.com/Sunnking/Hawley23.

Joe Cortez

40-year-old Joe Cortez of Batavia has had his sentencing in Medina delayed. He faces up to nine months in county jail for criminal contempt for violating an order of protection. However, his attorney requested the sentencing be delayed so he could review results from a psychological examination of Cortez that was ordered in Genesee County Court. Cortez faces rape charges in Genesee County for having forcible sexual intercourse with a juvenile victim under the age of 17. Cortez returns to court in Medina on May 31st.

Michael Burham – captured and in custody

Kala Hodgkin

The search for a Jamestown-area man who is accused of committing multiple crimes has come to an end in South Carolina. The FBI says that 34-year-old Michael Burham was taken into custody yesterday after a person spotted him and dialed 911. Burham was wanted for arson, rape, kidnapping and the murder of Kala Hodgkin of Jamestown. He had been on the run for nearly two weeks. There’s no word yet on when he’ll be extradited back to Western New York.

55-year-old Joanne Florek of Albion has pleaded guilty in connection with charges that she defrauded the Workers’ Compensation system of more than $80,000 in benefits to which she was not entitled. Florek claimed injury while on duty at the Orchard Manor Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Medina, where she worked as a nurse. She subsequently made multiple representations to her insurance carrier that she had not returned to work in any capacity, nor had she collected earnings from any other source, since her injury. Investigation revealed that Florek had been working as a bookkeeper and as a personal care aide while at the same time collecting benefits. Following her arrest last year, she was charged with Grand Larceny, Insurance Fraud, Falsifying Business Records and for violating Workers’ Compensation Law. This week, she was discharged, under the condition that she pays restitution in the amount of $40,000.

Shawnna Lamont

33-year-old Shawnna Lamont of Perry has been arrested for criminal possession of a controlled substance. It’s alleged this was discovered while she was detained on two outstanding warrants. Lamont was given an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court early next month.

The New York State Department of Health is planning to repeal the COVID-19 mandate for health care workers. The mandate was put in place back in 2021 and required that health care workers be fully vaccinated to help slow the spread of the illness. But, over 30,000 workers either quit or were fired for refusing to get their shots. Guidance involving this change will be sent out to health care facilities and hospitals statewide in the next few days.

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended from 6:00am Friday, May 26 through 6:00am on Tuesday, May 30, to ease travel throughout the Memorial Day holiday weekend. Motorists should be aware that some work might continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs. The construction suspension aligns with New York State’s Drivers First Initiative, which prioritizes the convenience of motorists to minimize traffic congestion and travel delays due to road and bridgework. The Thruway Authority reminds motorists that 10 service areas are closed and under construction as part of the $450 million private investment and modernization project. Fuel services remain open at all locations. Motorists can view the service areas and plan their stops on the Thruway Authority’s website (https://www.thruway.ny.gov/index.shtml) and on the free mobile app.

Drivers should be especially careful during the upcoming Memorial Day holiday weekend and summer travel season. According to AAA, the period from Memorial Day to Labor Day is traditionally the most dangerous time on the roads for teen drivers, with an uptick in fatal crashes. Police are reminding all drivers to be proactive about being safe on the roads. Nearly 3 million more drivers are expected to be on the roads this summer compared to last. Also, Genesee County law enforcement agencies will once again be participating in the STOP-DWI program to bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving. This high collaboration effort starts tomorrow May 26 and continues thru Monday, May 30. While STOP-DWI efforts across the state have made great strides in reducing the numbers of alcohol and drug related fatalities, still too many lives are being lost because of crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers. Law enforcement encourages you to make a sober plan to get a safe ride because impaired driving is completely preventable – all it takes is a little planning. Visit www.stopdwi.org for more information.

Photo: 13WHAM

Multiple operating rooms at the University of Rochester Medical Center are unavailable due to water damage following a water main break Monday. A water main near Elmwood Avenue was briefly punctured during construction work, resulting in a significant volume of water reaching the hospital and seeping into operating rooms in the basement. That included several rooms where surgeries were actively taking place. The patients were moved to other areas and were unharmed. Normal surgical schedules have resumed using other UR Medicine facilities.

File photo

Monroe County is set to spend over $4,000,000 (million) to boost the number of Emergency Medical Technicians that are available to help residents. Those funds will be used to recruit and train EMTs as well as paramedics. The money for this initiative will be coming from the American Rescue Plan Act. People who complete the training program offered through Monroe Community College will be qualified to work for any EMS provider in the county.

Fans of the Rochester Americans will gather this weekend to help support their team’s pursuit of the Calder Cup. There will be a block party on Broad Street Saturday before the Americans take on the Hershey Bears at Blue Cross Arena. The Amerks currently lead the best-of-seven series one game to none and Game Two is set for tonight. Tickets for Saturday’s home game are sold out.

ELSEWHERE…

Ooops. Well, you know what I mean… Mr. Chan was a good sport about it though.

Just one letter brought a nine-day Jeopardy champion’s reign to its end. Ben Chan misspelled his answer during Final Jeopardy by writing “Beatrice and Benedict” in a category of “Shakespeare’s Characters.” The correct spelling was not Benedict, but Benedick with a “K”. Chan was a good sport, telling the show afterward “if you’re going to go out on a miss, go out on a memorable miss.” Meanwhile, fans on social media expressed disappointment that Chan was penalized since it was clear what character he meant.

Americans are foregoing health care services at higher rates. A survey from the Federal Reserve reveals 28% of respondents went without some form of medical care in 2022 because it was too expensive. That number climbed by 4% year-over-year. The survey found Americans were most likely to skip dental care.

May 25 in history…

Stuart Perry’s gas engine, invented in 1844.

…In 1844, Stuart Perry patented the gasoline engine.

Model A Ford

…In 1927, the Ford Motor Company discontinued the Model T. The car was replaced by the Model A.

Babe Ruth hits his 500th homerun, 1929.

…In 1935, Babe Ruth hit the 712th, 713th and 714th home runs of his career. They would be the last home runs he would ever hit.

…In 1961, President Kennedy called on Americans to help work toward putting a man on the moon by the end of the decade.

May 25, 1965, Ali-Liston fight in Lewiston, Maine. Ali was reported to be saying, “Get up and fight!”

…In 1965, Muhammad Ali knocked out Sonny Liston in the first round of their rematch for Ali’s heavyweight title.

Jay Leno

…In 1992, Jay Leno replaced the retired Johnny Carson as host of NBC’s “Tonight Show.”

Frame from the video of Oprah’s final show. Photo: Harpo Productions

…In 2011, after 25 years, “The Oprah Winfrey Show” signed off for the very last time. Oprah signed off by saying, “I won’t say goodbye, I’ll just say until we meet again. To God be the glory.”

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz says migrants from New York City who will be arriving in this area in the coming days will likely be staying at SUNY Buffalo State University. Poloncarz said yesterday the school has plenty of rooms for those individuals to live in and migrants could remain there longer than this summer. There still isn’t word on just how many migrants will be coming. Poloncarz said this past weekend issuing an emergency order to keep migrants away would be morally repugnant.  Monroe County as well as Genesee and several neighboring counties have done just that.

A 69-year-old man was arrested Wednesday evening after driving into a Rochester Police Department patrol car.  Police said the suspect crashed into the back of a patrol car occupied by two officers on Culver Road near University Avenue just before 6 p.m.  RPD said when those officers got out of the car to confront the suspect, he backed his vehicle up and rammed it into the patrol car once again.  Officers then quickly took the man into custody without further incident.  Both vehicles only suffered minor damage, and nobody was injured at the scene, according to police.  The driver is charged with DWI.

The New York State Department of Health is planning to repeal the COVID-19 mandate for health care workers. The mandate was put in place back in 2021 and required that health care workers be fully vaccinated to help slow the spread of the illness. But, over 30-thousand workers either quit or were fired for refusing to get their shots. Guidance involving this change will be sent out to health care facilities and hospitals statewide in the next few days.

Drivers should be careful during the upcoming Memorial Day holiday weekend and summer travel season.  According to AAA, the period from Memorial Day to Labor Day is traditionally the most dangerous time on the roads for teen drivers, with an uptick in fatal crashes.  Police are reminding all drivers to be proactive about being safe on the roads.  Nearly 3 million more drivers are expected to be on the roads this summer compared to last.

Multiple operating rooms at the University of Rochester Medical Center are offline due to water damage following a water main break Monday.  A URMC spokesperson announced that a water main near Elmwood Avenue was briefly punctured during construction work, resulting in a “significant volume of water” reaching the hospital and seeping into operating rooms in the basement.  That included several rooms where surgeries were actively taking place, according to URMC. The patients were moved to other areas and were unharmed.  URMC said normal surgical schedules have resumed using other UR Medicine facilities.

Iconic actress Jodie Foster stopped by the Flower City ahead of receiving a prestigious award.  Foster visited the Dryden Theatre at the George Eastman Museum Wednesday night, to introduce a screening of the 1991 movie “The Silence of the Lambs.” She won the Oscar for best actress for her role in that film.  Tonight, Foster will receive the George Eastman Award for her contributions to cinema, during a ceremony at the museum.

Jamie Broadbent

40-year-old Jamie Broadbent of Batavia has been arrested and charged with grand larceny. Following an investigation by Genesee County Sheriffs, it was found that Broadbent stole an individual’s wallet, which contained cash and multiple credit cards. She was arraigned in Town of Batavia Court and is scheduled to return on June 13th.

Ahhhhh….CHOOOOOOO!

Updated data from the New York State Flu Tracker shows the spread of the illness is continuing to hold steady in our region. During the week ending May 13th, the area with the highest number of cases was Monroe County with 35, followed by Erie County with 25. Wayne County had the third-largest total during that time period with 19 cases. Niagara and Orleans Counties reported two cases each. There were no cases of the flu reported in Genesee County. Since the start of flu season, nearly 336,000 state residents have contracted the virus.

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants today from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the general area of south of West Main Street and West of Jackson Street. Homes and businesses nearby will be affected. These tests may result in a temporary discoloration of water in that area. Do not attempt to wash any clothing if your water appears discolored. If you do experience a discoloration, run cold water for about 5 minutes or until clear. If you have questions, or should notice a hydrant in need of repair, please contact the fire department at 585-345-6375.

The development of the Ellicott Station road will restrict access to the Ellicott Trail in Batavia, which is located near the intersection of Evans and Jackson Streets.  All construction zones will be marked with signs and barriers indicating road closures.  The trail will be rebuilt as a six-foot-wide cinder path, with a weather-dependent completion date.

Mark Poloncarz – file photo

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz says that an unknown number of migrants will be coming to the area from New York City soon. Poloncarz released a statement yesterday saying these individuals are in the United States legally, and they’ve been vetted by federal authorities. Poloncarz also said he’s been assured that any costs associated with the migrants, such as food and housing, will be covered by New York City or the state. Nearby counties have put emergency orders in effect to keep migrants from being housed in their communities, but Poloncarz says that’s an action he won’t take.

A man who was accused of brutally murdering his estranged wife is now facing prison time after pleading guilty. Yesterday, 49-year-old Juan Rivera admitted that he stabbed 35-year-old Maribel Diaz to death in her vehicle on Suntru Street in Rochester last year. Rivera then went to his parents’ residence and set a fire that killed 11 animals. Rivera will be ordered to spend 25 years behind bars when he’s sentenced in July.

A woman has been arrested after police say that she pistol-whipped an employee at a laundromat in Rochester. According to police, 29-year-old Mahlaysia Johnson became upset Monday after the victim refused to give her a refund worth $1.25 after a dryer was broken. The employee suffered minor injuries and when Johnson was taken into custody, she was in possession of a handgun and had a child in her vehicle. She’s now facing multiple charges.

Adam Bello – file photo

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello has issued an emergency order in response to the ongoing migrant crisis. The order stops any motel, hotel, or shelter in the county from providing emergency shelter to migrants unless the Department of Human Services has approved a plan. Bello says the county doesn’t have enough emergency housing available for homeless people, let alone migrants. He did say migrants could still come to the area while awaiting the results of their asylum applications.

More information is expected to be released today on the deaths of a married couple in Clarkson. Monroe County deputies responded to a home on Sweden Walker Road for a welfare check Monday and found their bodies. The names of the individuals haven’t been released yet. Officials do not believe there’s currently any threat to the public.

File photo of Damar Hamlin

Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills is back on the field just months after he collapsed during a game in January. Hamlin was spotted taking part in individual drills yesterday as part of the Bills’ organized team activities workouts. Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest during Buffalo’s game with the Cincinnati Bengals January 2nd and needed to be resuscitated on the field. Hamlin has already been fully cleared to play, but there’s no word yet if he’ll be ready for the regular season.

ELSEWHERE…

Matt Araiza

Free agent punter Matt Araiza is working out with the New York Jets, less than a month after he was cleared in a San Diego rape case. ESPN reports a prosecutor in the case against Araiza said he wasn’t present during an alleged gang rape of a minor at a San Diego home where he had been living at the time. Araiza, who was released by the Buffalo Bills before ever appearing in an NFL regular season game following news of the allegations, was also reported to not be visible in any video footage taken from the scene. Araiza holds the NCAA record for single-season punt average at 51.19 yards. Coincidentally, the previous record holder was former Jets punter and now Steelers punter Braden Mann.

Just ahead of the Memorial Day weekend, gas prices across the U.S. are up slightly. The average price per gallon today is $3.56, up about two cents from Tuesday according to AAA.

The days of Netflix subscribers sharing their passwords are coming to an end. The streamer began emailing customers Tuesday about its new password policy. Netflix said the email is being sent to members in the U.S. who have been sharing their account outside their household.

File photo of Target #takepride merchandise

Target is pulling some of it’s gay pride merchandise after several employees were threatened by violent customers. On Tuesday, the company released a statement saying since they introduced the collection, employees have experienced threats to their safety, so they’ll be “removing items that have been at the center of the most significant confrontational behavior.”

File photo – home for sale – unknown location

New home sales are up for the fifth straight month. Government figures show sales of new single-family homes rose just over 4% in April to an annual rate of 683,000 units. That’s the highest level since March of last year. New home sales posted gains in the South and Midwest, but fell in the Northeast and West. The average sales price was just over $500,000 last month.

Excelsior Scholarship applications are now open for new applicants ahead of the 2023-24 academic year. The scholarship allows students to attend a SUNY or CUNY two-year or four-year school tuition-free. Students who come from homes with federal adjusted gross incomes up to $125,000 are eligible to take part in this program. Applications will be accepted through August 31st, and more information can be found by visiting the state Higher Education Services Corporation website.

May 24 in history…

…In 1844, Samuel Morse demonstrated the telegraph with what is now known as Morse Code. The message “What hath God wrought” was sent from Washington, D.C. to Baltimore, Maryland.

Thomas Edison with first telescribe – 1915

…In 1915, Thomas Edison invented the Telescribe, which was designed to record telephone conversations.

Photo from May 24, 1935 – the first Major League Baseball game played under the lights

…In 1935, the Cincinnati Reds beat Philadelphia in the first baseball game to be played under the lights.

Frame from a video of Dean Martin’s final show, with Don Rickles – May 24, 1974 (Photo: NBC)

…In 1974, the final episode of “The Dean Martin Show” aired. The show ran for nine years and aired 264 episodes. Guest appearances during the finale included Jonathan Winters, Lena Horne, Goldie Hawn, Bing Crosby, Ann-Margret, Bob Newhart, Jimmy Stewart, Joey Bishop, Orson Wells, Dom DeLuise, Glen Campbell, and Don Rickles. It was in this final season that Martin’s variety show began to morph into the ‘Celebrity Roast’ format. This ran for another 10 years, at first on a weekly basis, and later monthly, and then as specials. By the way, contrary to popular belief, Dean Martin never drank alcohol onstage. Instead, he poured apple juice into a scotch bottle to make it look like alcohol. This deception was to get into the character, which he wanted to portray to entertain the audience.

Robbie Knievel in the middle of his successful jump – May 24, 2008

…In 2008, daredevil Robbie Knievel successfully jumped 24 semi-trucks with his motorcycle at King’s Island in Ohio. Thousands of people were on hand to watch as Knievel sped 95-miles-an-hour off the launch ramp. Knievel soared 200 feet before reaching his landing ramp. Robbie became the second Knievel to make a successful jump at Kings Island. His father, Evel, jumped 14 Greyhound buses there in 1975.

Bill Cosby outside the courthouse, May 24, 2016

…In 2016, a Pennsylvania judge ordered comedian Bill Cosby to stand trial on accusations of sexual assault, after ruling that there’s enough evidence to move forward with the case.

Monroe County is joining the list of those declaring a state of emergency in response to the influx of migrants arriving in New York City.  County Executive Adam Bello released a statement Tuesday afternoon saying the county is dealing with “an unprecedented shortage of emergency housing available to support individuals experiencing homelessness.”  Bello called it “unfair” to potentially bring busloads of migrants to Rochester without a plan in place to support them.  The order prevents any hotel, motel, shelter or other multiple-dwelling unit from “entering into a contract with any municipality or entity to provide emergency shelter unless an Emergency Housing Plan is submitted to the Monroe County Department of Human Services and receives approval.”

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz is welcoming migrants into his area.  On Tuesday, he announced he has been advised an as-yet unknown number of asylum seekers will be coming to Erie County from New York City.  According to Poloncarz, these individuals are all legally in the country seeking asylum and have been vetted by federal authorities prior to arriving here.  Where they will be housed is still unknown, according to Poloncarz but he said he has been assured the costs associated with their housing, food, and other supportive services will be paid for by either New York State or New York City. Gov. Hochul previously said that SUNY campuses could be potentially used for housing but did not name locations.  Poloncarz said a joint venture between the Erie County Department of Social Services and five area resettlement agencies known as “The Refugee Partnership” is positioned to provide additional support if needed.

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants today from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the general area of south of West Main Street and West of Jackson Street. Homes and businesses nearby will be affected. These tests may result in a temporary discoloration of water in that area. Do not attempt to wash any clothing if your water appears discolored. If you do experience a discoloration, run cold water for about 5 minutes or until clear. If you have questions, or should notice a hydrant in need of repair, please contact the fire department at 585-345-6375.

Family, friends and retired law enforcement officers are invited to the second annual Flag Commemoration Ceremony for deceased members from the Batavia Police Department which will take place on Wednesday, May 31 at 1:00 P.M. This year’s ceremony will be held at the gravesite of Officer Andrew McCulley in the St. Joseph’s Cemetery.  Flags will once again be installed in metal flag holders at nearly 50 graves at various cemeteries across Genesee County and plaques were affixed to deceased officers interred in the Monsignor Schwartz Mausoleum.  Anyone wishing to attend should assemble by the Kelly Mausoleum at 12:30 PM as the procession will begin to the gravesite at 12:50 PM.

Wearing shorts and his familiar No. 3 blue practice jersey, Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin began easing his way back into football during the team’s voluntary minicamp on Tuesday, some five months after having a near-death experience on the field.  The only thing missing was his helmet.  Though held back from taking part in team sessions, Hamlin participated in individual drills and the stretching portions to open and end practice in taking the next steps toward resuming his football career.

Next time you go to the Buffalo Zoo you’ll see some new faces as the zoo announced it has welcomed two new animals.  Salvador is a 12-year-old ocelot who came from a facility in California and Tater is a five-year-old black howler monkey who came from the John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, Michigan.  Both animals can be found inside Rainforest Falls.

23-year-old Brittany Bolton of Batavia has been arrested and charged with petit larceny. It’s alleged she concealed $45.32 worth of merchandise in her purse and failed to scan all items at the self-checkout. She then allegedly passed all points of sale without paying for the concealed items. Bolton was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia Town Court next month.

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants tomorrow, May 24 from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the general area of south of West Main Street and West of Jackson Street. Homes and businesses nearby will be affected. These tests may result in a temporary discoloration of water in that area. Do not attempt to wash any clothing if your water appears discolored. If you do experience a discoloration, run cold water for about 5 minutes or until clear. If you have questions, or should notice a hydrant in need of repair, please contact the fire department at 585-345-6375.

Paul Kesler

Starting July 1, a familiar face will be back at the helm at John Kennedy Intermediate as Paul Kesler once again assumes the role of principal. The appointment follows a long history of school leadership in Batavia. He’s been the principal of Batavia High School since 2018 and began his career with the district at John Kennedy in 2005 as principal. With the departure of Mr. Kesler from the high school, Jason Smith and the Batavia City School District leadership team will immediately begin the search process to name a replacement.

Monday’s Memorial Day Parade in Batavia is scheduled to start at 9:45am at the East Town Plaza. They’ll travel west along Main Street and end at Alva Place. In LeRoy, the parade will begin at 10:30am from the American Legion to Trigon Park with a ceremony at Trigon Park at 11:00am immediately following the parade.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London

The Buffalo Bills are going to be playing across the pond this season, and Triple A has come up with a travel package so fans can see the game in-person. The Bills will be taking on the Jacksonville Jaguars at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on Sunday, October 8th. The trip will run from October 5th through the 10th and includes flights, a hotel stay, sightseeing activities and tickets. A double occupancy costs $3,999 and a single occupancy is going for $4,699.

The Bills announced that safety Dean Marlowe will remain in Buffalo on a one-year deal. Marlowe was brought back last season in a trade with the Falcons, as the Bills were in need of some depth due to injuries. Buffalo gave up a 7th round draft in the 2023 draft in the trade. Marlowe played in a total of four games after joining midway through the season. The Bills also signed an non-drafted free agent, Joel Wilson from Central Michigan University. That makes for another tight end to be thrown into the mix.

Undated file photo of Memorial Watchfire

The New York State Office of General Services is still in the process of collecting American flags so they can be properly retired. Worn and tattered flags can be dropped off at locations across the Empire State and they’ll be properly disposed of during the Memorial Watchfire at the New York State Fairgrounds this weekend. Donations are being collected through Friday. In our region, you can drop off worn and tattered flags at the NYSP Troop E Zone 1 Station, 1155 Scottsville Road, Rochester. For more information, click here: https://www.cnyvrf.org/watchfire-2023/

ELSEWHERE…

The City of Buffalo has extended the deadline for residents to sign up for the upcoming police entry exam. The original deadline was yesterday, but now it has been set for May 31st. In order to qualify, people must be at least 19 years old, but individuals who reach their 35th birthday before the exam aren’t eligible. A current and valid driver’s license and high school diploma, GED, or equivalency diploma are also required. The exam is scheduled to happen June 17th.

Lego “Pac-Man” Arcade

Lego is releasing an over two-thousand piece set celebrating “Pac-Man.” The set based on the 1980s arcade game comes with a light brick to light up the coin slot. “Pac-Man,” launched in Tokyo in 1980, became the most successful arcade game of all time. The Lego set doesn’t work as an actual gaming system, the company says fans will love the “retro game details.”

Dylan Mulvaney

Anheuser Busch is buying back cases of expired Bud Light from wholesalers after the Dylan Mulvaney controversy. The beer went unsold after the brewer’s marketing partnership with the transgender influencer. A pair of Instagram posts by Mulvaney sparked a mix of online backlash causing a dip in Bud Light sales. The brewer says it is planning a branding revamp that will focus on the all-American themes of football and country music.

The TSA is advising travelers to allow themselves extra time as they head to airports around the country this weekend. The summer travel season begins Friday with the start of Memorial Day Weekend and more than two-point-six million travelers are expected to go through security checkpoints that day alone.

Julia Faustyna’s claim that she was the missing Madeleine was ruled out by DNA testing.

A new search for a British girl who has been missing for 16 years is set to get underway in Portugal. German police are set to start searching a remote reservoir in Portugal for Madeleine McCann, according to local media. This will be the first major search for McCann since 2014. By the way, the young woman who three months ago claimed to be Madeleine, was found not to be her through DNA testing.

May 23 in history…

“Hello, is this the ‘Mounties’? This is Wilbur. I’m calling for my horse, Ed. He’s been looking for work since our show got cancelled…”

…In 1873, Canada created the North West Mounted Police. They would later become known as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Bonnie and Clyde

…In 1934, bank robbers Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow were shot and killed by police in Bienville Parish, Louisiana.

Sam Snead, 1965

…In 2002, Hall Of Fame golfer Sam Snead died at the age of 89.

Phil Mickelson hoists the trophy in 2021.

…In 2021, Phil Michelson becomes the oldest person to win a major golf tournament when he won the PGA Championship. He was 50-years-old when he took home the win.

Lawmakers across the state are calling on the federal government to fast-track work permits as busloads of asylum seekers continue to arrive in New York City.  More than 70,000 migrants have arrived there in recent months, according to Mayor Eric Adams, with 42,000 still in the city’s care.  Gov. Kathy Hochul joined Adams on Monday to call for additional help, asking the federal government to expedite work permits that allow asylum seekers to get jobs.  Adams has been asking for assistance for months, saying it’s a national issue that shouldn’t just fall on the shoulders of one city.  Even if the federal government intervenes, housing remains an issue. Hochul has said she’s considering using some SUNY campuses to house asylum seekers.  Numerous counties across the state have issued states of emergency saying they don’t have room for migrants, due to housing issues of their own.

There is a new principal at John Kennedy Intermediate School starting July 1st who has a long history of leading in education in Batavia.  Paul Kesler, who has been principal of Batavia High School since 2018, began his career with the Batavia City School District at John Kennedy in 2005 as Principal.  With the departure of Mr. Kesler as Principal of Batavia High School, Jason Smith and the BCSD leadership team will immediately begin the search process to name a replacement.

Police in Buffalo report that the Erie County Naval and Military Park has been vandalized.  On Monday it was discovered that the Korean War Memorial was painted with the rifle held by the statue of the soldier painted yellow and pink.  Several months ago the war memorial outside Russell’s Steaks and Chops was vandalized.  The man who allegedly did it was arrested in March.  Police ask anyone with information to call or text the confidential tip line at (716) 847-2255.

AAA is offering a travel package for Bills fans looking to go across the pond to see their team play in London this fall, but you’ll need to act fast.  The package includes four nights at a hotel, various sightseeing activities and tickets to Buffalo’s Oct. 8 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Travelers would return to Toronto Oct. 10.  The trip will cost $3,999 per person for double occupancy and $4,699 per person for single occupancy.  AAA said that more than half of the available spots have already been booked.

Six Flags Darien Lake has been named as a top North American Amusement park by Hometogo.com’s best amusement parks ranking system.  It scored number 1 in affordability with the cost of a regular ticket, 39.99, combined with parking at 20 dollars and nearby cheap hotels making it one of the cheapest parks you can visit in North America.  It came in 6th overall out of all parks surveyed.  Only Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Hersheypark, Canada’s Wonderland, and Cedar Point placed higher.  The overall score was made by weighing affordability next to how many rides there are at the park.  Cedar Point Ohio came in first in overall score and number of attractions score.  The Disney parks because of their high price and low number of attractions ranked low on the list.

The Bills announced that safety Dean Marlowe will remain in Buffalo on a one-year deal.  Marlowe was brought back last season in a trade with the Falcons, as the Bills were in need of some depth due to injuries. Buffalo gave up a 7th round draft in the 2023 draft in the trade.  Marlowe played in a total of four games after joining midway through the season.  The Bills also signed an undrafted free agent, Joel Wilson from Central Michigan University. That makes for another tight end to be thrown into the mix.

Michael Burnham

Jamestown police are still on the lookout for a man who they say should be considered armed and dangerous. Officers are now working with law enforcement in Pennsylvania and South Carolina to track down 34-year-old Michael Burnham. He is wanted in connection with several incidents including a homicide that happened earlier this month. Tips involving his whereabouts can be shared with Crime Stoppers Western New York.

40-year-old Adam Smart of Batavia has been arrested and charged with forgery, criminal possession of stolen property and petit larceny. It’s alleged he stole $800 cash and a blank check, and then forged and attempted to cash the check at Bank of America in Batavia. Smart was transported to the Genesee County Jail; where he was held to wait for CAP Court arraignment.

Monday’s Memorial Day Parade in Batavia is scheduled to start at 9:45am at the East Town Plaza. They’ll travel west along Main Street and end at Alva Place. In LeRoy, the parade will begin at 10:30am from the American Legion to Trigon Park with a ceremony at Trigon Park at 11:00am immediately following the parade.

Mayor Evans

Rochester Mayor Malik Evans says that his city hasn’t been asked to host any migrants or asylum seekers. Those individuals have been spending time in New York City, but officials there say that finding a place for them to stay has become increasingly difficult. Evans did say he believes that it is important for federal officials to realize this has been a longstanding problem for years.

Mark Poloncarz

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz says he is not going to issue an order that’d be aimed at preventing migrants from New York City from being housed in the area. Poloncarz believes putting a state of emergency into effect for such a reason would be illegal and also morally repugnant. Other counties in the region have issued a state of emergency to prevent migrants from showing up in their communities. Governor Hochul says she is working with New York City Mayor Eric Adams to find housing for people who need it.

According to Triple A this morning, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $3.54. The state average is $3.66. In Batavia, we’re paying on average $3.62. That’s down 3 cents from a month ago and down $1.20 from a year ago today.

File photo of McDonald’s, East Town Plaza – This location may or may not be hiring at this time.

Folks who are looking for work may want to consider a career with one of the largest fast food chains in the world. McDonald’s is looking to hire people at its restaurants in Rochester and surrounding areas. Benefits include flexible scheduling, tuition assistance and advancement opportunities. Anyone who is interested in applying can do so online by going to jobs.mchire.com.

ELSEWHERE…

Target candle recall

Target is recalling close to five million candles that could crack while burning and pose risk of injury. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, the items could break and could cut or burn users. The retail giant fielded over 100 reports of the candles cracking during use, and six reports of injuries. The recall is for the Threshold Glass Jar candles in various scents and sizes, sold beginning August 2019.

People are strongly encouraged not to us this brand of artificial tears.

The contaminated eye drops outbreak is growing. The CDC reports another death linked to the recalled eyedrops Delsam Pharma and EzriCare. The tainted eyedrops are now linked to four deaths and 81 cases of extensive vision loss in 18 states. The FDA has urged Americans to stop using the two brands.

Brooks Koepka

For the third time in his career, Brooks Koepka is the winner of the PGA Championship. Koepka became the first LIV golfer to win a tournament after finishing atop the leaderboard at nine under par at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester. A pair of players finished tied for second place. Viktor Hovland and Scottie Scheffler ended the tournament seven under par.

May 22 in history…

The Reno Gang in an undated photo.

…In 1868, the Great Train Robbery took place in Marshfield, Indiana. Seven members of the Reno gang held up the train’s crew, unhooked the locomotive, and made off with over 90-thousand-dollars in cash, gold and bonds.

Jack Benny

…In 1955, Jack Benny signed off his last live radio broadcast following a run of 23 years. His show then moved to television.

Johnny Carson – frame from a video of his last night hosting The Tonight Show – May 22, 1992 (NBC Photo)

…In 1992, after nearly 30 years, Johnny Carson ended his reign as host of NBC’s “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.” Carson’s final words to the audience were quote, “I bid you all a heartfelt good night.”

Rochester Police are investigating after responding to a possible shooting on Mayflower Street, near Dorothy Avenue around 3:15 a.m. Sunday morning.  Police say they found evidence that shots were fired, but did not find anyone injured.  Officers then learned the suspect had possibly fled into a nearby home.  After police surrounded the home, five teens stepped out of the house, and were arrested peacefully. They range in age from 16 to 18.  Officers say they also found multiple weapons inside the home. Police are still investigating and determining charges against the teens.

Deputies from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office were involved in a stolen vehicle chase early Saturday morning that ended with a total of seven teenagers being detained in Penfield.  Police responded to several reports of people breaking into cars at around 4 a.m. on Crown Oak Drive.  A witness saw the suspects get into a blue Hyundai and leave toward Penfield Road.  After a brief pursuit, deputies were able to stop the vehicle by the use of stop sticks.  Four juveniles, two 16-year-olds, a 17-year-old and a 14-year-old were arrested and charged with criminal possession of stolen property.  The 14-year-old was taken to secure detention and the others were issued appearance tickets before being released to their parents.  Multiple vehicles were damaged. The investigation is ongoing.

Chautauqua, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans and Wyoming Counties have declared states of emergency telling New York City not to send migrants to their communities and making it illegal for organizations in their county to accept migrants.  Erie County Legislator Jim Malczewski wants to do the same for his county, planning to introduce legislation today, but Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz released a statement Saturday that they would not be declaring a state of emergency.  Several Buffalo area nonprofits that work with refugees are gearing up for the influx of undocumented immigrants.  Millions have crossed the southern US border in the last year and more than 70,000 have come to New York City. 

Notre Dame has a new assistant principal starting July 1st.  Lindsay Warner has been selected by the Board of Trustees for the position.  Warner is a 2001 graduate of Notre Dame, and previously served as a varsity coach and faculty member. She was the founder of ND’s award-winning business program and was notably awarded the New York State Business Teachers Association’s outstanding new business teacher in 2015. For the last 6 years, Lindsay has served in and out of the classroom at the WNY Tech Academy as a teacher, work-based learning coordinator, program promoter, recruiter, and social media coordinator/developer.

For the third time in his career, Brooks Koepka is the winner of the PGA Championship.  Koepka became the first LIV golfer to win a tournament after finishing atop the leaderboard at nine under par at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester. A pair of players finished tied for second place after Viktor Hovland and Scottie Scheffler ended the tournament seven under par. Bryson DeChambeau, Kurt Kitayama and Cam Davis finished tied for fourth place at three under. Defending champion Justin Thomas finished tied for 65th at 12 over par.

Drivers in Western New York are paying just a tiny bit less than last week at 3.62 for a gallon of regular in Batavia.  Last week it was a penny more and last month it was 3 cents more.  A year ago gas was a dollar 21 more than today at 4.81 a gallon.  The New York State average is 3.66 and the national average is 3.54.  The highest price in the nation continues to be California with an average of 4.80.

Larry was almost sold for 19.99 a pound but now has a new home at the Aquarium of Niagara.  The rare orange lobster was donated by Tops Friendly Markets of Hamburg.  They are 1 in 30 million finds but the Aquarium says that Tops has already donated 3 to them.  In 2020 Tops in Lockport donated an orange lobster, also named Larry, who is still at the aquarium and is an ambassador animal who goes out with its education team to schools/festivals/etc.  In 2021 Tops in Batavia donated an orange lobster, named Tangerine, who is now an ambassador animal at the Oceanarium and Education Center in Bar Harbor, Maine.  The aquarium said it also has gotten two blue lobsters in the past which were donated by Wegmans.

The Batavia Police Department would like to thank the Batavia Lions Club for its generous donation and work during the Day of Caring.  Batavia PD donated several slightly used bicycles to the Lions Club.  During the Genesee County Day of Caring, the Lions Club partnered with Adam Miller Toy and Bicycle to service/fix up these bikes.  Once the tune-ups were completed, the Lions Club donated eight bicycles back to Batavia PD to be distributed to local children in need.

It was one of their cutest rescues.  The City of Batavia Fire Department was on the scene on West Main Street near Oak Street Friday morning to come to the aid of 14 ducklings that had fallen through a grate and into the drain.  Their mother flew away when the fire crew arrived to help her stranded ducklings and did not return during the hour or so that the firefighters were on the scene.  The ducklings were transported to City Fire Headquarters and are in a new temporary habitat while they work on a permanent place for the ducklings.

One golf enthusiast at the PGA tournament in Rochester has a sore calf, a story to tell, and a crisp 100 dollar bill after a tee off went wrong during practice at hole 1 on Wednesday.  Joel Dahmen hit the ball and that ball hit a person named Caleb McGuire in the calf as he tried to get out of the way.  Joel found Caleb and asked him how much beer was at the event.  17 dollars a pop was the response.  Joel pulled out a 100 dollar bill and said he would pay for his beer for the day. 

Darren Wilson

62-year-old Darren Wilson of Lyndonville will spend weekends in county jail for four months and also be on probation for 10 years. He pleaded guilty to possessing a sexual performance of a child and had been arrested on those charges as well as for having unregistered pistols. Wilson had previously served as president of the Lyndonville Area Foundation. Many letters had been submitted to the court testifying about his good deeds in the community. Wilson apologized and expressed remorse in court.

38-year-old Heather Holbrook of Batavia has been arrested and charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance. It’s alleged that during a traffic stop, she was found to have over 500mg of cocaine and Suboxone (buprenorphine) strips. Holbrook was held pending arraignment in CAP Court.

File photo of unidentified woman fastening seat belt.

Genesee County Sheriff’s in partnership with law enforcement throughout the state, and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee will engage in the 2023 Click It or Ticket Campaign; which runs from May 22–June 4. Click it or Ticket is a statewide enforcement campaign designed to save lives and reduce the severity of injuries by increasing safety restraint use. The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee has set a strategic goal to increase the observed statewide seat belt use rate and to decrease unrestrained occupant fatalities in passenger vehicles. The strategies identified to accomplish this goal include high visibility enforcement, public information and education.

Grand Prize Winner

First Place

Second Place

Winners have been announced in the Genesee County First Annual ‘I Voted’ sticker contest, coordinated by the Genesee County Board of Elections. Grand Prize went to Elijah Webster of Pavilion Central School; which featured drawings of Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. First place went to Olivia Gillard (Batavia Middle School); and second place went to Logan Almekinder (Pavilion Central School). The grand prize and first place designs will be printed and distributed during early voting and on Election Day.

Photo: 13WHAM

A Greece man is in some serious legal trouble after being accused of threatening to shoot a Penfield Town Justice. According to investigators, Geoffrey Irwin called the court earlier this week, saying he wanted to talk with someone about a case. He eventually became upset, and that is when he threatened to shoot the judge. Irwin is facing multiple charges, including making a terroristic threat. After being arraigned, he was sent to the Monroe County Jail.

File photo

Buffalo police have arrested three teenagers in connection with the armed robbery of a food delivery driver. According to investigators, two 16-year-old boys and a 15-year-old boy were involved in Wednesday night’s crime in the area of Crawley Avenue near Ontario Street. The trio were taken into custody after stealing the victim’s vehicle and later leading officers on a brief foot chase. Police were able to recover credit cards and cash that belonged to the driver. All three teens are facing multiple charges.

Some of the people Jay Withey saved (13WHAM photo)

Jay Withey

A man who helped save people during a deadly blizzard that devastated Buffalo and surrounding areas is going to be honored tonight. Jay Withey has been selected to throw out the first pitch ahead of this evening’s Buffalo Bisons game. Withey was called a hero after he helped several people during last year’s storm shelter in a school on Delavan Avenue. The Bisons are hosting the Rochester Red Wings at Sahlen Field, and the game is scheduled to start at 6:35.

ELSEWHERE…

The Walt Disney Company is announcing a billion-dollar cut to its operations in Orlando, Florida. It comes as the entertainment giant battles with the state’s Republican Governor Ron DeSantis over controversial, new state laws. On Thursday, the Walt Disney Company said it’s scrapping plans to relocate two-thousand California workers to the Sunshine State.

Please play responsibly.

The Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots are on the rise. Whoever is lucky enough to win Mega Millions tonight will get a prize of $132,000,000 (million). And the jackpot up for grabs for Powerball tomorrow night is $162,000,000. Both drawings will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

May 19 in history…

Anne Boleyn

…In 1536, Anne Boleyn, the wife of England’s King Henry the Eighth, was beheaded on this date.

Early promotional poster.

…In 1884, the Ringling Brothers opened their first circus.

Marilyn Monroe, “Happy birthday, Mr. President”

…In 1962, Marilyn Monroe performed a sultry rendition of “Happy Birthday” for President John F. Kennedy at a fund-raiser at Madison Square Guardian in New York.

Mary Jo with Joey Buttafucco, 1992

Amy Fisher in 1992, “The Long Island Lolita”

…In 1992, Mary Jo Buttafuoco was shot and wounded by Amy Fisher, who claimed to be having an affair with Buttafuoco’s husband Joey. Fisher was dubbed the “Long Island Lolita.”

Marv Albert

…In 1997, NBC sportscaster Marv Albert was indicted for biting a woman as many as 15 times during a sexual romp in an Arlington, Virginia, hotel room.

Meghan Markle, Deal or No Deal model in 2006

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, 5/19/18

…In 2018, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle exchanged marriage vows at Windsor Castle in the United Kingdom.

On Thursday Wyoming County declared its own state of emergency following Orleans and Genesee in order to keep New York City from bussing undocumented Migrants to their counties.  The states of emergency block any new migrants from being moved into the area.  All three counties cited not having enough housing and an increase in homelessness as reasons for not wanting influxes of immigrants.  The state has not released an official plan to move migrants to these counties but has signaled it may begin housing them at SUNY campuses with concerns that GCC, Geneseo and other colleges will soon have large numbers of unknown and undocumented people sharing space with the teenagers and bringing new security and policing challenges.  

Buffalo police have arrested three teenagers in connection with the armed robbery of a food delivery driver.  According to investigators, two 16-year-old boys and a 15-year-old boy were involved in Wednesday night’s crime in the area of Crawley Avenue near Ontario Street.  The trio were taken into custody after stealing the victim’s vehicle and later leading officers on a brief foot chase.  Police were able to recover credit cards and cash that belonged to the driver.  All three teens are facing multiple charges.

New York State lawmakers are pushing to expand wine sales by allowing grocery stores to sell wine. A local group called “It’s Time for Wine, New York” is calling on the state to change it’s liquor licensing laws and allow grocery stores to sell wine.  Grocery stores in New York can currently sell beer, but not other forms of liquor, including wine.  Only full-service grocery stores, where at least 65% of sales are derived from food-related products, that already have a license for off-premises beer sales and are more than 5,000 square feet would qualify for the license.  Lawmakers are working to pass this bill before the legislative term ends next month.

First responders participated in training courses over the last several weeks with 11 graduating from the Officer Development Firefighter Health and Safety Course and 18 graduating from the A Rescue Tech Basic Course.  The Health and Safety Course was a 12 hour training that taught a basic knowledge of communications for administrative and emergency functions and gave a training on avoiding hazards and how to do initial accident investigations.  The Rescue Tech Course provided students with an overview in areas of specialized rescue, search, technical rescue management, risks and priorities, use of ropes, knots and rope systems in a low angle environment and establishment of landing zones for helicopter operations.

The Batavia Rotary Club’s annual Fly-In Breakfast is set for Father’s Day, June 18 at the Genesee County Airport.  The Fly-In Breakfast is open to the public and features an all-you-can-eat breakfast and an opportunity to to get up-close to a variety of private aircraft flown in by pilots from throughout the region.  Serving begins at 7:30 a.m. and continues through 11 a.m. The breakfast consists of eggs, pancakes, sausage, juice, coffee, tea and milk. Again this year the breakfast will feature a special Rotary Egg Bake which includes: eggs, peppers, onions, sausage and cheese that promises to be totally delicious.  Adult tickets are $12. Tickets for children ages 4 to 12 are $8. Children under 4 are admitted free. Tickets may be obtained at Lawley Insurance, from any Batavia Rotarian or at the door.

Workers at Six Flags Darien Lake will be making final preparations today before the park opens for the 2023 season tomorrow.  Additions for this year include a new laser light show, renovations to bathrooms and additional shaded seating throughout the park, new food options, and an Oktoberfest this Fall.  Also more Titan Track has been added to the Predator Roller Coaster making it smoother and faster.  For more on what’ll be happening at the park in the coming months, go to sixflags.com/darienlake.

Shaquelle Walker, Jr.

Daquan Richardson

The suspect in a shooting that killed a three-year-old boy and left three other people hurt has found out the punishment for his crime. A judge has sentenced 24-year-old Dequan Richardson to 25 years to life behind bars. Richardson opened fire towards a crowd on Donavan Drive in Buffalo in July 2021, and a bullet struck Shaquelle Walker Junior in the head. The boy later died at Oishei Children’s Hospital. Richardson pleaded guilty to multiple charges this past March.

GENESEE COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT: 41-year-old Robert Lee Drennen of Sweden, New York, has been arrested in Batavia for harassment. It’s alleged he struck another individual in the face. Drennen is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court later this month. ALSO: Michelle Marcucci and Dodie Keller were arrested for conspiracy, petit larceny and endangering the welfare of a child. Earlier this week, they were investigated; it’s alleged they stole merchandise from Walmart while in the presence of a juvenile. No additional information is available at this time.

Zachary Johnson

A Cheektowaga man is facing several charges after being accused of trying to drown a family member’s dog. According to the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, 18-year-old Zachary Jackson attempted to kill the animal in the bathtub of a home in Cheektowaga. The dog needed to be brought to an emergency vet after the incident. Jackson is being held without bail and is due back in court again June 8th.

Genesee and Orleans Counties have each declared a state of emergency over New York City’s plan to bus undocumented migrants and asylum seekers to other counties. Genesee County Manager Matthew Landers expressed concern that the county is not equipped to support a rapid increase of people in need of services and more would increase the difficulties. The state of emergency bans county organizations, hotels and motels from accepting migrants from outside the county; under the order in Orleans, neither migrants nor asylum seekers can be transported or housed without permission from the head of the Orleans County Legislature. The states of emergencies are in place for 5 days and can be extended in 5-day increments. Meanwhile, Governor Hochul is looking to SUNY colleges to potentially house migrants.

Thomas Loewke, walking toward federal court in Rochester. January 2023. Photo: 13WHAM

51-year-old Thomas Loewke pleaded guilty on Wednesday to tipping off the man running a gambling ring in Rochester and Upstate New York that he was being investigated. An unnamed state trooper saw a document on a computer in an investigators office with Louis Ferrari’s name on it. Ferrari was being investigated for running an illegal sports betting ring. The trooper then called Loewke and Loewke went to Ferrari and told him about the investigation, causing Ferrari to change passwords and the appearance of his website and hide the betting histories in order to obstruct the investigation. Loewke pleaded guilty to obstruction, he faces 12-18 months in prison and will be sentenced in September.

Hey Bud, let’s get you a new tissue.

Some brand-new data from the New York State Flu Tracker shows the spread of the virus is holding steady in our region. During the week ending May 6th, the area with the highest number of infections was Monroe County with 29; Erie County reported 26. Wayne County had 10 new cases while Chautauqua County had 3. There were no flu cases reported across the GLOW region. Since the start of flu season, more than 334,000 New Yorkers have contracted the virus.

Chequita R. Smith

An investigation is still underway into what caused a crash that took the life of a Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority worker. A NFTA-Metro Paratransit vehicle overturned yesterday in the area of the Interstate 190 and Interstate 290 split in Tonawanda. The victim has now been identified as Chequita Smith, who was a Metro-Link employee and had worked as an NFTA operator and instructor. Two other people in the vehicle were treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Artist rendering of the entrance to the new Bills stadium.

Buffalo Bills officials say the groundbreaking for the team’s new stadium in Orchard Park is expected to happen soon. A ceremony to mark the beginning of construction of the more than $1,000,000,000 (billion) facility could happen as early as June. Crews have already started clearing the land where the stadium is going to be located, and because the weather has cooperated, work has been able to take place essentially uninterrupted. The hope is the stadium will be ready for play for the 2026 NFL season.

The East Course of the Oak Hill Country Club

Some of the biggest names in golf will be teeing off at Oak Hill Country Club today for the PGA Championship tournament. Among the stars who will be hitting the links include Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson, and Jordan Spieth. The tournament is scheduled to wrap up on Sunday. Tickets are already sold out, and over 200,000 spectators are expected to attend.

ELSEWHERE…

Danni Malloy – the first depiction of a transgendered woman in comics. (Archie Comics)

Archie Comics is introducing its first transgender character. Danni Malloy — a longstanding female in the Archie universe — will be re-introduced as a male who has transitioned to a woman in a spin-off comic. This is not the first time that the Archie Comics has gone progressive. In 2010, the first gay character was introduced. Last year, a pansexual character was also added.

“Dr. Roxy”

An Ohio plastic surgeon who livestreamed her surgeries on TikTok could soon learn whether she’ll lose her medical license. Dr. Katherine Roxanne Grawe, known as “Doctor Roxy” to her 800,000 followers, is accused of botched surgeries and privacy violations.

One of the four known remaining pair of ruby slippers, worn by Judy Garland on The Wizard of Oz.

A Minnesota man is being charged for stealing the famous ruby red slippers worn by Judy Garland in “The Wizard of Oz.” A Minnesota grand jury indicted 76-year-old Terry J. Martin in the 2005 theft of the slippers from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. Police recovered the slippers during a sting operation in Minneapolis in 2018. They are one of just four known surviving pairs from the 1939 movie and are currently valued at $3,500,000 ($3.5 million).

Clovis Hung, 12-year-old college graduate, on graduation day.

Clovis Hung, the youngest to ever graduate from California Fullerton College

A 12-year-old boy is about to become the youngest ever graduate in the history of California’s Fullerton College. Clovis Hung is graduating with five associate degrees this weekend, and is planning to go for a sixth next year. He began studying at Fullerton College as a special-admit student in 2019 when he was nine years old.

May 18 in history…

Abraham Lincoln – photo by Mathew Brady, 1860

… In 1860, Abraham Lincoln was nominated for President of the United States by Republican Party leaders.

Political cartoon published in response to the 1896 court decision.

…In 1896, the U.S. Supreme Court endorsed racial separation with its ruling in the Plessy versus Ferguson case. The decision sanctioned separate but equal public facilities for blacks and whites. The ruling was overturned 58 years later with the historic Brown vs. Board of Education ruling.

…In 1917, U.S. Congress passed the Selective Services Act. The act called up soldiers to fight in World War I.

Karen Silkwood

What remained of Karen Silkwood’s car after the fatal crash.

…In 1979, an Oklahoma City jury awarded more than $10,000,000 (million) to the estate of Karen Silkwood. She was a laboratory technician who was contaminated by radiation at a Kerr-McGee plutonium plant and then killed in a hit-and-run accident while on her way to pass information about the plant to a newspaper reporter. Her story was the basis for the film “Silkwood.”

Mount St. Helens erupting after 100 years of dormancy.

…In 1980, Mount St. Helens volcano in Washington state erupted after lying dormant for more than 100 years. The explosion killed more than 55 people and destroyed 160-thousand acres of forest. Geologists say the eruption was 500 times as powerful as the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima during World War II..

Elizabeth Montgomery “casting a spell” on Bewitched.

…In 1995, “Bewitched” actress Elizabeth Montgomery died at the age of 62 (although her exact age has never really been confirmed, because she was not always forthcoming about how old she was).

…In 2012, the Facebook social networking website made its debut as a publicly traded company. The company began trading at 38-dollars a share on Nasdaq. The initial public offering made founder Mark Zuckerberg the 29th richest person in the world.

Dimitrios Pagourtzis

…In 2018, a shooting at Santa Fe High School in the Houston, Texas metropolitan area left 10 people dead and thirteen more injured. Police identified the shooter as 17-year-old Dimitrios Pagourtzis. The case dragged on for years due to Dimitrios being deemed mentally incompetent to stand trial. Since November 2019, Dimitrios Pagourtzis is committed to a state-run mental health institution. In February 2023, a judge determined him to be mentally incompetent to stand trial.

On Wednesday Genesee county declared a state of emergency over New York City’s plan to bus undocumented migrants and asylum seekers to other counties.  In a press release County Manager Matthew Landers said that “Genesee county is not equipped for a rapid increase of persons in need of services and if the City of New York or other municipalities were to flood the county with migrants and asylum seekers the situation would only worsen.”  The state of emergency bans county organizations, hotels and motels from accepting migrants from outside the county.  The state of emergency will last for 5 days and can be extended in 5 day increments.  It is being called the Genesee County Sustainable Migration Protocol.  Orleans County issued a similar declaration earlier.

51 year old Thomas Loewke pleaded guilty on Wednesday to tipping off the man running a gambling ring in Rochester and Upstate New York that he was being investigated.  According to the court filing an unnamed state trooper saw a document on a computer in an investigators office with Louis Ferrari’s name on it.  Ferrari was being investigated for running an illegal sports betting ring.  The trooper then called Loewke and Loewke went to Ferrari and told him about the investigation, causing Ferrari to change passwords and the appearance of his website and hide the betting histories in order to obstruct the investigation.  Loewke pleaded guilty to obstruction, he faces 12-18 months in prison.  His sentencing is September 6th.

Leaders of the Seneca Indian Nation will allow a public school district located on their land to continue using its Warrior nickname and logo despite New York’s ban on schools’ use of Indigenous imagery, officials said Wednesday.  In giving approval, Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong Sr. said the Salamanca school district represented “the most unique of circumstances” because of its location on the nation’s Allegany Territory, and large percentages of Native American students and staff.  Last month, the New York Board of Regents prohibited public school districts from using Indigenous nicknames and mascots — but included an exception for districts that receive written approval from a federally recognized tribal nation in New York.

Have you ever wanted to try Buffalo’s famous chicken wings and also be able to compare the wings from different restaurants to find the best one?  Well Buffalo has an event on Sunday where you can do just that.  The Wing Walk will feature Lenox Grill, Anchor Bar, Fat Bob’s, Teton Kitchen, Mumbo Wings and Things, and Highly Flavored Foods.  At each restaurant on the 3 mile walking route you’ll get 2 wings and the chance to buy a beverage.  Afterwards participants will vote on which wing was best.  The cost of the walk is 49 dollars. 

A new comedy club and music venue is planned for the City Center.  Owner Ken Mistler says he wants to turn an area of the City Center off Alva Place into the new performance venue called The Bowery.  He was in the Planning and Development Committee meeting on Tuesday asking for permission to put in a handicap ramp and put up a marquee and add in a serving window for one size pizza sales.  The red metal double doors would get a workover but stay much the same.  Inside there would be a dance floor, a full bar and finger foods to go with the liquor per NYS standards.  He says he can have it open within 6 months.

A new oil change business promising that you can sit in your car and workers will change your oil in 15 minutes is set to go into the former bank on the corner of West Main and Lewiston Rd across from Tops Friendly Markets.  Take 5 started in Louisiana and has expanded north.  Now they have locations in Rochester, Syracuse and Albany with plans to expand into Lockport, Tonawanda and Amherst as well as Batavia.  It is still in the planning stage and goes back to the Planning and Development Committee when they have a detailed site plan.

FROM THE SHERIFF’S REPORT: 63-year-old Thomas Tacito of Batavia is charged with unlawfully possessing noxious material, after allegedly being found in possession of pepper spray and then attempting to use it against another person on Park Road. He was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Batavia Court next week and was held for CAP Court for an unrelated matter. ALSO: 27-year-old Nathan Crawford of Batavia is charged with criminal mischief after allegedly damaging a bicycle that was locked to a bike rack at Batavia Downs. He was released on an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court next week. ALSO: 64-year-old Anthony Martino Jr. of Batavia has been charged with petit larceny after allegedly exiting a retail store on Veteran’s Memorial Drive without paying for merchandise. He was released on an appearance ticket for Town of Batavia Court late next month. ALSO: 44-year-old Tony Graber of Pembroke is charged with criminal contempt in relation to disobeying a mandate. This followed law enforcement’s investigation into a violation of a full stay-away order of protection. Graber was transported to Genesee County Jail where he was arraigned and released on bail.

Results are in from the School District Budget vote…In Batavia, the budget passed with 263 people voting yes and 65 voting no; the propositions passed, as well. And Alice Ann Benedict and Barbara Bowman were both elected to the Board of Education.

The City of Batavia Fire Department will be flushing fire hydrants tomorrow, May 18 and Friday May 19 from approximately 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the general area of North of W. Main St. and West of Bank St. Homes and businesses nearby will be affected. These tests may result in a temporary discoloration of water in that area. Do not attempt to wash any clothing if your water appears discolored. If you do experience a discoloration of your water, run cold water for about 5 minutes or until clear. This annual testing is essential to maintain the communities class III Insurance Services Office (ISO) public protection classification, and to assure that fire hydrants are operating efficiently for fire protection purposes. Along with maintaining the fire rating, the test monitors the health of the city’s water system, identifies weak areas in the system, and removes material that settle in the water lines. Checking each hydrant improves fire department personnel knowledge of the hydrant locations. If you have questions, or should notice a hydrant in need of repair, please contact the fire department at 585-345-6375.

The Batavia Rotary Club’s annual Fly-In Breakfast is set for Father’s Day, Sunday, June 18 at the Genesee County Airport. The Fly-In Breakfast is open to the public and features an all-you-can-eat breakfast and an opportunity to get up-close to a variety of private aircraft flown in by pilots from throughout the region. Serving begins at 7:30am and continues through 11:00am. The breakfast consists of eggs, pancakes, sausage, juice, coffee tea and milk. Again this year the breakfast will feature a special Rotary Egg Bake, which includes: eggs, peppers, onions, sausage and cheese that promise to be totally delicious. The Breakfast is prepared and served by members of the Batavia Rotary Club. Proceeds from the Fly-In Breakfast will benefit the club’s youth and community service programs. Adult tickets are $12. Tickets for children ages 4 to 12 are $8. Children under 4 are admitted free. Tickets may be obtained at Lawley Insurance, from any Batavia Rotarian or at the door. The Rotary Club will serve over 1,000 breakfasts. Most of the food has been donated. Volunteer chefs and servers are Batavia Rotarians and their families.

The “Flower City” beat out Buffalo, but only by one position.

U.S. News and World Report has released its latest rankings of the best places to live in the country, and Rochester has cracked the top 30. The city ended up in 26th place on the list ahead of Buffalo (27th), but behind both Syracuse (22nd) and Albany (17th). This report was put together using multiple factors such as value, quality of life, job market and desirability. Topping the list was Green Bay, Wisconsin followed by Huntsville, Alabama and Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina.

Several local colleges are reaching out to help students at Medaille University in Buffalo after it was announced earlier this week their school is going to be closed down. Daemen University, Canisius College, Alfred University, and Villa Maria College have reached teach-out agreements with Medaille. As a result, students will be able to finish up their academic careers as planned. Medialle is shutting down on August 31st due to financial issues.

There is a freeze warning issued for Genesee County, in place from 11:00pm this evening through 8:00am tomorrow morning. Freezing temperatures and morning frost could kill crops and sensitive plants. Unprotected outdoor plumbing could possibly be damaged. Cover up your plants and either wrap or drain your plumbing to avoid negative effects from the cold.

File photo of Governor Hochul during her State of the State address, January 10, 2023

The results of a brand-new poll show that there are a lot of New Yorkers who don’t have a favorable opinion of Governor Hochul these days. According to the Siena College poll, 45% of people polled said they don’t view Hochul favorably, compared to 40% who do. Respondents were split on whether she’s effective and a strong leader. One bit of good news for the governor is that a strong majority of people surveyed believes that she’s hard working.

Legends Hospitality has confirmed they will be taking over hospitality services in the new Buffalo Bills stadium. Legends already had a relationship with the Buffalo Bills for the new $1.54 billion stadium in Orchard Park. The company was picked to lead planning, project management, sales, and partnerships. Now they’ll also take over hospitality. Legends is no stranger to NFL stadiums, having partnerships with SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, and Yankee Stadium in the Bronx. Delaware North has provided concessions for Buffalo Bills games since 1992, but there have been questions recently if there’s conflict of interest. Governor Kathy Hochul’s husband, Bill Hochul, works for Delaware North.

Post Malone

One of the most popular singers in the world will be bringing his latest tour to Western New York this summer. Post Malone is going to be at the Darien Lake Amphitheater on Monday, July 17th. The Grammy-nominated artist is known for multiple hits including “Sunflower,” “Congratulations,” and “Better Now.” Tickets for this show will go on sale this Friday at 10:00am online, at https://www.livenation.com/.

ELSEWHERE…

Police on a Florida beach attempt to wrangle a beached alligator and realize it’s a sand sculpture.

Police in Treasure Island, on the west coast of Florida, were investigating the sighting of a large alligator when they were caught by surprise. The strangely still reptile lounging on the beach wasn’t real, it was a sand sculpture. The Treasure Island police department shared a snapshot of the gator to Twitter and Facebook. Luckily, the prank was revealed before it scared any early morning beachgoers.

Skittles, Nerds and other popular candies may have to change their formula or risk missing out on the California market. The state assembly is approving a bill to ban five food additives which are already off limits in the European Union. It now moves to the state Senate for debate. The chemicals, including red dye three, have been linked to a variety of health problems. The Food and Drug Administration does not prohibit the compounds, but backers of the new bill say that’s because of a loophole in existing law. The Hill reports the vast majority chemical additives used by the food industry do not receive independent review from the federal government. The FDA could not be reached for comment.

Aaron Judge with a side-eye glance to the dugout during Monday’s game.

Aaron Judge is explaining his unusual side-eye glances while up at bat before his second home run Monday in Toronto. The Yankees slugger said he was checking out his teammates, who he claims were trash-talking the umpire. Judge said he spoke to some of the guys in the dugout and “hopefully it won’t happen again.” By the way, Judge’s two homers helped push the Yankees to a 7-4 win over the Blue Jays.

May 17 in history…

Aristides with jockey Oliver Lewis

…In 1875, the first Kentucky Derby was run at Churchill Downs in Louisville. The race was won by a chestnut thoroughbred named Aristides in just over 2 minutes, 37 seconds. 19-year-old jockey Oliver Lewis would never race in another Kentucky Derby.

Brown vs. Board of Education victory celebrated today in history by this mother and her daughter

…In 1954, the United States Supreme Court issued its ruling in the Brown versus the Board of Education of Topeka case. The high court declared that “racially separated educational facilities are inherently unequal.”

Bobby Ewing didn’t ‘come back’ again after this on-screen death.

…In 1985, Bobby Ewing died for the final time on the season finale of “Dallas.” He had died on an earlier episode, but was brought back to life.

Damage to the USS Stark port side after being struck by two Exocet missiles fired by Iranian jet on May 17 1987.

…In 1987, 37 U.S. sailors were killed when an Iraqi warplane attacked the U.S. Navy frigate Stark.

Undated file photo of President Clinton.

…In 1996, President Clinton signed Megan’s Law into effect. The law requires neighborhood notification when a convicted sex offender moves into the area.

Front page of the Boston Globe – May 17, 2004

…In 2004, the state of Massachusetts made history by becoming the first state in the country to issue marriage licenses for same-sex marriages.

Heather Mills and Paul McCartney during happier times.

…In 2006, former Beatle Paul McCartney and his second wife Heather Mills announced their plans to separate after four years of marriage. In a statement, the 63-year-old McCartney and his 38-year-old wife blamed the split on non-stop media intrusion.

Undated file photo of Donna Summer.

…In 2012, five-time Grammy Award winner Donna Summer died at the age of 63. Summer, known as the Queen of Disco, had been battling cancer.

The unofficial results are in for School District Budget votes in Genesee County.  In Alexander the Budget passed with 173 yesses to 57 nos and the propositions for more busses, establishing a capital reserve, bus reserve fund and an equipment reserve fund passed with similar votes.  The Board of Education vote saw Sara Fernaays elected with 97 votes. In Batavia the budget passed with 263 voting yes and 65 voting no and both propositions passing.  Alice Ann Benedict and Barbara Bowman were elected to the Board of Education.  In Byron Bergen the yesses have it with 380 voting yes on the budget and 108 voting against.  In Elba 110 people voted yes on the budget and 11 people voted no and both propositions were passed.  Dean Norton is still on the School Board with 111 votes.  In Leroy the budget and library budget passed with 388 and 413 yes votes.  Denise Duthe and Jacalyn Whiting were elected to the school board.  Oakfield Alabama the budget passed with 432 votes and Jackie Yunker Davis, Pete Zeliff and Natalie Emerson were elected to the School Board.  In Pavilion the budget passed with 192 yes votes and Chris Jeffres, Lana Flint and Roxanne Holthaus were elected to the school board.  In Pembroke the budget passed with 277 yes votes and John Cima continues on the board.

A fire in Darien was a challenging fight according to Genesee County Emergency Management Coordinator Tim Yaeger.  No Hydrants, high winds and dry conditions on Tuesday made for perfect conditions for fires to catch and spread.  The fire at 2044 Sumner Rd was reported at around 8:30 in the morning.  The Owner of the property was doing an intentional burn and the wind whipped the fire into the corner of a nearby barn and flying embers then caught on the inside.  No injuries to homeowners, firefighters or livestock and half the barn was saved.  Yaeger said that the fire department also was challenged by a lack of volunteers.  Most of the volunteers have been serving for 30+ years and many more are needed.  If you feel you could help in a fire department in any way please go and sign up.

Inside the 2024 NYS budget is a 67% increase for film tax credits, which members of the industry say will bring an economic boost to Western New York.  The film tax credits will be used to give back to the community through jobs and employing local workers for film productions. Western New York Native William Fichtner spoke about how studios select where to film.  He said “the states with the best tax credits are the places that the films are going to shoot in.”  Fichtner hopes to bring his expertise to Western New York with a possible future project.

There is a Freeze Watch in effect for Wyoming and Livingston Counties overnight tonight.  Starting at 8pm and going through Thursday morning frost and freezing temperatures could kill crops and sensitive vegetation.  Unprotected outdoor plumbing could also be damaged.  Cover up your plants and either wrap or drain your plumbing to avoid the cold effects.  

St James Episcopal Church is partnering with Eggertsville’s St Peter’s Episcopal Church to sell Perogies to benefit a Ukrainian family moving to the US and trying to get started.  Friday May 19th from 10 to 4 a cash only cookie and pierogi sale will be going until sold out.  The mother of the family, who made the perogies, will be present.  The previous sale sold out very quickly so if you want some homemade perogies you should get there early.

Legends Hospitality has confirmed they will be taking over hospitality services in the new Buffalo Bills stadium.  Legends already had a relationship with the Buffalo Bills for the new $1.54 billion stadium in Orchard Park. The company was picked to lead planning, project management, sales, and partnerships. Now they’ll also take over hospitality.  Legends is no stranger to NFL stadiums, having partnerships with SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, and Yankee Stadium in the Bronx.  Delaware North has provided concessions for Buffalo Bills games since 1992, but there have been questions recently if there’s conflict of interest. Governor Kathy Hochul’s husband, Bill Hochul, works for Delaware North.

Michael Loveless

59-year-old Michael Loveless of Webster is charged with grand larceny in Batavia. It’s alleged that he entered and drove away with a vehicle that was parked at a local gas station while the owner was inside the store. The vehicle was tracked using its GPS system and located in Lockport with Loveless still occupying the vehicle. He was taken into custody and turned over to Batavia Police. Loveless was arraigned in Batavia City Court and is being held until he returns to court one week from today.

Undated file photo of brush fire

A combination of windy, dry conditions today will create an elevated risk of wildfire spread across the entire GLOW region. Relative humidity values will drop to as low as 15 to 25 percent, with winds gusting up to 35 mph at times. Despite the recent greening of plants, these conditions may allow for rapid spread of fires if ignition occurs.

School budget votes are today, which means all residents in Genesee County are voting for district budgets, busses, school board members and personnel among other things. You can vote in Batavia until 9:00 this evening. This year’s budget represents about $4 million more than last year; with a correlating 1 percent tax levy increase. Other points of consideration that are up for a vote: Proposition 1 of the total budget of nearly $59 million. Proposition 2 seeks to establish a new capital reserve of $10 million for 10 years. Election of two Board of Education members to fill two seats, with incumbents Alice Benedict and Barbara Bowman running. If you live north of Main Street, voting is at Robert Morris; south of Main Street, you’ll vote at the High School.

The City of Batavia Fire Department is flushing and testing fire hydrants today until 3:00 in the area north of Main Street and west of Bank Street. Service to homes and businesses will be affected; if you notice the water is discolored, you should avoid washing clothes. If it does look discolored, run cold water for about five minutes or until it’s clear. This annual testing is essential to maintain the communities class III Insurance Services Office (ISO) public protection classification, and to assure that fire hydrants are operating efficiently for fire protection purposes. Along with maintaining the fire rating, the test monitors the health of the city’s water system, identifies weak areas in the system, and removes material that settles in the water lines. Checking each hydrant improves fire department personnel’s knowledge of the hydrant locations. If you have any questions, or should notice a hydrant in need of repair, please contact the fire department at 585-345-6375.

A road construction alert for you to keep in mind: Dewey Avenue from Birchwood Apartments to South Main Street, Madison Avenue, Orleans Avenue, and Adams Street, will experience construction delays and lane reductions for the cold milling of the pavement tomorrow from 7:00am – 7:00pm. All residents on these streets are asked not to park on the roadway during the day and either park in their driveways or neighboring streets. All area motorists are asked to avoid these streets if possible. Portions of this work are weather dependent, and delays may occur.

New legislation has been signed off on by Governor Hochul that she hopes will help combat New York’s current nursing shortage. The latest measure allows nurses to complete up to one-third of their training through clinical simulations. The governor says this high-tech training is just like working with real patients, and it comes highly recommended by industry professionals. The governor has already said she’s committed to boosting the workforce of nurses by 20% over the next five years.

National Grid says that time is running out for customers who are struggling to pay their winter utility bills to get help. People who receive benefits from the Home Energy Assistance Program may be eligible to receive additional emergency benefits to address their past-due balances, but the program closes May 19th. Anyone who wants to apply can do so through the HEAP Local District Contact page, which can be found at otda.ny.gov. HEAP applications for home heating aid closed in March.

Catherine Jones

Jamien Harris

A Buffalo woman has been charged with murder in connection with the shooting death of her own grandmother. According to prosecutors, 41-year-old Jamien Harris killed 90-year-old Catherine Jones in November 2021. Harris was caring for Jones, who was suffering from dementia, when the victim died due to a gunshot wound to the chest at her home on Highgate Avenue. If convicted of murder, Harris is facing a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.

The name of the man who was shot and later died after answering the door at his home in Rochester over the weekend has been released. According to police, 22-year-old Jadarius Jathrow-Harris was hit by gunfire at his residence on Shelter Street Sunday morning. He was taken to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead. His murder isn’t being considered a random act of violence and anyone with information is asked to dial 911.

Unidentified mail carrier (undated file photo)

A pair of mail carriers in the Rochester area recently fell victim to violent crimes, an issue that’s rising in frequency across the nation. One of them was robbed at gunpoint on Culver Road and Parsells Avenue Saturday morning, just a day before one of their carriers was also robbed near the Westgate area in the Town of Gates. Five postal workers have been robbed while making deliveries in Rochester this year. President of the Letter Carriers Association Branch 210 Kenny Montgomery said things took a turn for the worse in 2020, when the Postmaster General removed Rochester’s Postal Police from the streets. The suspect involved in Saturday’s robbery near Culver and Parsells has since been taken into custody.

Medaille University – file photo

Members of the Board of Trustees at Medaille University in Buffalo say the school is going to be closing for good August 31st. Yesterday’s news came just days after a proposed merger between Medaille and Trocaire College was scrapped. In a statement, Medaille officials say that due to the merger being terminated and financial woes, the school has to be shut down. Work will begin soon to help students transfer to other colleges so they can finish up their academic careers.

Greece police say three people have been arrested in connection with an attempted vehicle theft at an apartment complex in their community. Officers responded to a report of individuals trying to break into a vehicle at Patriots Landing on Sunday. The suspects, 18-year-old Isiah Rivera, a 16-year-old boy, and 15-year-old boy were taken into custody following a brief foot chase. They were all issued appearance tickets and released.

Lisa Falkner

A Livingston County jail cook is in some legal trouble after being accused of having a romantic relationship with an inmate. Officials say 56-year-old Lisa Falkner also allegedly inappropriately touched the inmate and brought an item into the jail for that individual. She is also accused of altering evidence after finding out that she was being investigated. Falkner is now facing multiple charges.

Damar Hamlin

The Professional Football Writers of America have selected Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin as the 2023 George Halas Award winner. According to the PFWA, the award is given to an NFL player, coach, or staff member who overcomes the most adversity to succeed. Hamlin and Kevin Everett, who was named the winner in 2008, are the only members of the Bills organization to have won the award.

The Buffalo Bills have finalized their 2023 schedule by announcing when the team will be taking the field for preseason games. The Bills will host the Indianapolis Colts at Highmark Stadium on August 12th. That will be followed by road games on August 19th against the Pittsburgh Steelers and August 26th against the Chicago Bears. Buffalo begins its regular season on the road September 11th when they battle the New York Jets.

Stevie Nicks in concert, 2022

A legendary singer and songwriter is going to be bringing her brand new tour to Western New York later this year. Stevie Nicks is going to perform at the KeyBank Center in Buffalo on Wednesday, October 4th. Nicks was a lead singer for Fleetwood Mac, and has been inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Tickets for her show go on sale this Friday at 10:00am and they can be purchased at livenation.com.

ELSEWHERE…

Michael Burnham

Crime Stoppers WNY is offering a reward for information that leads to the arrest of a man Jamestown police say should be considered armed and dangerous. Whoever provides the tip that leads to 34-year-old Michael Burham being taken into custody will get up to $2500. Burham is suspected to have been involved in a homicide and he’s also wanted on multiple charges. It is believed he’s in Jamestown or the Warren, Pennsylvania area. All tips can be submitted by calling 716-867-6161.

Taco Bell wants to cancel the trademark “Taco Tuesday.” The trademark has been owned by rival Taco John’s for 34 years. Taco Bell argues the phrase should be freely available to all who make, sell, eat and celebrate tacos.

Triple AAA predicts air travel over Memorial Day weekend will be busier this year than it was pre-COVID, signaling a true return to pre-2020 travel levels. According to this year’s report, about 3,400,00 (3.4 million) Americans are expected to fly over the holiday weekend, an 11% increase over last year.

Martha Stewart, age 81

Martha Stewart is now the oldest “Sports Illustrated” swimsuit cover model. The 81-year-old is one of the latest cover stars on the iconic magazine’s 2023 issue. The lifestyle guru and business maven says to be on the cover at her age was a diet and exercise challenge. Stewart says she hopes this encourages older women to ‘look good and feel good.’

May 16 in history…

253rd anniversary today…and their parents said it wouldn’t last!

In 1770, a 14-year-old Marie Antoinette married the future King Louis the 16th of France who was 15.

The first year nickels were minted in the United States – 1866

In 1866, a bill was passed to allow the United States Treasury Department to begin minting the nickel.

An orange food stamp from the first year of issue, 1939

In 1939, food stamps were introduced in the U.S.A.

Dr. George Nickopoulas

In 1980, Elvis Presley’s personal physician, Dr. George Nickopoulas, was indicted by a grand jury on 14 counts of illegally prescribing drugs to Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis and nine others. He was eventually barred from practicing medicine.

Andy with girlfriend Linda Margulies, April 1984. This is thought to be the last picture taken of Andy Kaufman. He was in the Philippines seeking holistic treatment for cancer.

In 1984, actor, comedian Andy Kaufman died at the age of 35.

Dave Berg

In 2002, “Mad Magazine” cartoonist Dave Berg died at the age of 81.

Undated file photo of a closed JC Penney store.

In 2020, department store JC Penney filed for bankruptcy.

New legislation has been signed off on by Governor Hochul that she hopes will help combat New York’s current nursing shortage. The latest measure allows nurses to complete up to one-third of their training through clinical simulations. The governor says this high-tech training is just like working with real patients, and it comes highly recommended by industry professionals. The governor has already said she’s committed to boosting the workforce of nurses by 20-percent over the next five years.  It is estimated that the state will have a workforce need of nearly 40,000 employees by 2030.

The 2023 county health rankings have been released by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and Genesee County ranks behind 2 thirds of counties in New York State.  According to the Rankings, the five healthiest counties in New York State starting with the most healthy are Putnam, followed by Saratoga, Nassau, Rockland and Tompkins.  The five counties with the poorest health, starting with the least healthy are Bronx, Cattaraugus, Sullivan, Chemung, and Montgomery.  Genesee County sits at 42 out of 62.  It has dropped 4 places since 2022.  Major factors against Genesee county are low access to physicians, mental health providers, and dentists along with high alcohol use, obesity and adult smoking.  You can look at the stats on our news partner the Batavian or go look at the whole rankings on www.countyhealthrankings.org.

School budget votes are today.  All school districts in Genesee County are having their votes for budgets, busses, school board members and personnel among other things.  Alexander is having their vote on the over 20 million dollar budget from 1 to 8 at the Middle School in room 112.  Batavia is having their vote from 11 to 9 at regular polling places on the nearly 59 million dollar budget.  Byron Bergen is having the vote on their nearly 26 million dollar budget and tax increase from noon to 9 at the Senior High School gym.  Elba’s nearly 12 million dollar budget voting is noon to 8 in the school auditorium lobby.  LeRoy has an increase of 9.1 percent to over 30 million dollars in its budget.  Voting is 8 to 8 in the Library at Wolcott St. School.  Pembroke’s budget of nearly 27 million dollars including a tax increase is noon to 8 at the Jr/Sr High School Gym

A pair of mail carriers in the Rochester area recently fell victim to violent crimes, an issue that’s rising in frequency across the nation.  One of them was robbed at gunpoint on Culver Road and Parsells Avenue Saturday morning, just a day before one of their carriers was also robbed near the Westgate area in the Town of Gates.  Five postal workers have been robbed while making deliveries in Rochester this year.  President of the Letter Carriers Association Branch 210 Kenny Montgomery said things took a turn for the worse in 2020, when the Postmaster General removed Rochester’s Postal Police from the streets.  The suspect involved in Saturday’s robbery near Culver and Parsells has since been taken into custody.

The Professional Football Writers of America have selected Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin as the 2023 George Halas Award winner.  According to the PFWA, the award is given to an NFL player, coach, or staff member who overcomes the most adversity to succeed. Hamlin and Kevin Everett, who was named the winner in 2008, are the only members of the Bills organization to have won the award.

The Buffalo Bills have finalized their 2023 schedule by announcing when the team will be taking the field for preseason games. The Bills will host the Indianapolis Colts at Highmark Stadium on August 12th. That will be followed by road games on August 19th against the Pittsburgh Steelers and August 26th against the Chicago Bears. Buffalo begins its regular season on the road September 11th when they battle the New York Jets.

The City of Batavia Fire Department is flushing and testing fire hydrants today and tomorrow from 9:00am until3:00pm in the area north of Main Street and west of Bank Street. Service to homes and businesses will be affected; if you notice the water is discolored, you should avoid washing clothes. If it does look discolored, run cold water for about five minutes or until it’s clear. This annual testing is essential to maintain the communities class III Insurance Services Office (ISO) public protection classification, and to assure that fire hydrants are operating efficiently for fire protection purposes. Along with maintaining the fire rating, the test monitors the health of the city’s water system, identifies weak areas in the system, and removes material that settles in the water lines. Checking each hydrant improves fire department personnel’s knowledge of the hydrant locations. If you have any questions, or should notice a hydrant in need of repair, please contact the fire department at 585-345-6375.

New York State Police have arrested four people and charged each with petit larceny, following investigation into three separate incidents. Brittany Richway of Syracuse and 34-year-old Angel Scott of Batavia together were accused of stealing; in a different incident, 45-year-old Michael Vickery of Lackawanna was accused of stealing; and in one other incident, 49-year-old Daniel Stevens of Batavia was similarly accused. The location of the thefts was not disclosed; however, all were charged over the last week and released on appearance tickets. No additional information is available at this time.

The price of gas is holding steady. According to Triple A this morning, the national average price for a gallon of regular is $3.54. The state average is $3.66. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.63 per gallon; the same as it was yesterday; but up 6 cents from a month ago today. We were paying $4.64 per gallon here a year ago today.

Dewey Avenue from Birchwood Apartments to South Main Street, Madison Avenue, Orleans Avenue, and Adams Street, will experience construction delays and lane reductions for the cold milling of the pavement, on Wednesday, May 17th from 7:00am – 7:00pm. All residents on these streets are asked not to park on the roadway during the day and either park in their driveways or neighboring streets. All area motorists are asked to avoid these streets if possible. Portions of this work are weather dependent, and delays may occur.

Rochester Police at Lilac Festival, May 12. Photo: 13WHAM

Organizers of the Lilac Festival have announced some rule changes after fights that have broken out at the event. Now, anyone 17 and under must be accompanied to the festival by a parent or someone who is at least 21 years old. Also, all underage individuals need to remain with a parent or guardian while they are on festival grounds. Security is also being increased to prevent any further violence. The festival runs through this coming Sunday, May 21st.

The state Attorney General and acting Health Commissioner are issuing a warning to New Yorkers about health insurance renewal scams. For the first time since March 2020, people enrolled in Child Health Plus, Medicaid, and the Essential Plan need to renew their health insurance coverage. There have been reports of people getting calls from scammers asking them to pay hundreds of dollars to maintain their insurance. Folks are being reminded they cannot be charged a fee for renewing and also that a government agency won’t demand money or ask for credit information in a text or phone call. To report scammers, dial 1-800-428-9071.

Governor Hochul in Buffalo, 5/14/23

Governor Hochul has announced nearly $10,000,000 (million) in funding that’ll be used to improve the lives of residents living in East Buffalo. During her visit to Buffalo yesterday, the governor revealed the money would be available to go towards a homeowner improvement program and expanding access to mental health services. There will also be an investment made in the permanent May 14th Memorial that’ll be created to honor the victims of the mass shooting.

St. Paul Lutheran Church, Elma

A church located in Erie County is being considered a total loss following a fire that happened over the weekend. Crews were called to the scene at Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church on Main Street in Elma on Saturday and firefighters from multiple surrounding communities helped to finally knock down the flames. The church, which was built in 1862, was undergoing renovations at the time of the blaze. Thankfully, no one was injured.

Buffalo Police at Cheektowaga Town Park

A 15-year-old boy is continuing to recover after being shot at a park in Cheektowaga. Police say the victim was at a town park on Harlem Road Saturday night when he was struck by gunfire. The teen was found near the playground area and brought to Oishei Children’s Hospital for treatment. So far, an arrest has not been made in this case and anyone with information can give police a call at 716-686-3971.

Rochester police are looking into a murder that happened after a man answered a knock at the door of his home. Officials say the 22-year-old man was shot yesterday at a residence on Shelter Street. The victim, whose name hasn’t been released, was rushed to Strong Memorial Hospital but could not be saved. A child was inside of the home at the time of the shooting but wasn’t hurt. Anyone with information on this case is asked to dial 911 immediately.

The American Red Cross is offering a new incentive in order to boost the number of blood donations. Anyone who donates by May 19th will receive a $10 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. They’ll also be entered to win a trip for two to the MLB All-Star Game in Seattle this July. To find a donation location in your area and schedule an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org.

ELSEWHERE…

Dillon Reeves

Dillon helping the bus driver – frame from a video provided by the school district

A Michigan 13-year-old student who stopped a moving bus last month after the driver had a medical condition is getting a key to his city. Dillon Reeves ran to the side of the driver, grabbed the wheel, and pumped the brakes until the bus stopped. Other students on the bus called 911 for help. Warren Mayor Jim Fouts said in a statement that Reeves’ actions saved the lives of at least 60 people. In addition to be given a key to the city, Reeves and his family were treated to a limo ride to dinner at a Warren restaurant.

The little girl whose kidnapping was prevented by her brother (provided photo)

A Michigan girl was able to escape an attempted kidnapping when her brother used a slingshot to strike the would-be attacker. State Police arrested the accused assailant in the city of Alpena on Wednesday. Law enforcement said in a news release that the 8-year-old girl was in her backyard when the alleged assailant came out of the woods, grabbed her and covered her mouth. Authorities said the girl’s 13-year-old brother hit the alleged attacker in the head and chest using a slingshot. Police later arrested the 17-year-old based on another family member’s description of the suspect. Authorities also said the teenager had visible wounds from the slingshot. The 17-year-old’s name has not been released though he has been charged as an adult with one count of attempted kidnapping/child enticement, one count of attempted assault to do great bodily harm less than murder, and one count of assault and battery.

Still…

The Writers Guild of America strike is ongoing. The strike began after the WGA’s contract with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers expired on May 2nd. The Writers Guild of America is seeking changes including improved compensation increases for writers.

General Motors is announcing the recall of nearly 1,000,000 (million) vehicles due to faulty airbags. The recall includes Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia vehicles from 2014 through 2017 with air bags produced by ARC Automotive. Federal regulators are urging ARC to announce a full recall of 67,000,000 of their airbag inflators made before 2018 after it was discovered they could explode and spray shrapnel during deployment.

May 15 in history…

Elizabeth Cady Stanton – seated – and Susan B Anthony – Photo dated 1899

In 1869, the National Woman Suffrage Association was formed. The association was founded by Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Stanton was the association’s first president.

Las Vegas in 1905

In 1905, the city of Las Vegas, Nevada was founded.

Early photo of the post office (vehicle pictured to the right of the plane) loading airmail. 

In 1918, regular airmail service began between New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C..

Mickey Mouse piloting in this frame from the Plane Crazy video.

In 1928, Mickey Mouse was seen for the first time in a cartoon called “Plane Crazy.” He appeared in a non-speaking role. His first vocal appearance came in “Steamboat Willie.”

Ellen Church in 1930

In 1930, Ellen Church became the first airline stewardess, flying between San Francisco and Cheyenne, Wyoming on a United Airlines flight.

Women lined up to buy nylons – 5/15/40

In 1940, nylons went on sale at stores across the United States for the first time.

The Smothers Brothers in an undated file photo

In 1964, the Smothers Brothers gave their first-ever concert in Carnegie Hall in New York City.

In 1970, the Carpenters second album, “Close To You,” was released.

George Wallace hospitalized after assassination attempt.

In 1972, Democratic presidential candidate George Wallace was shot and left paralyzed while campaigning in Maryland. Arthur Bremer was later convicted and sentenced to prison for the shooting.

The cover of the June 1973 issue of Playgirl; released 5/15/73

In 1973, the first issue of “Playgirl” hit newsstands.

O.J. testifying on his own behalf, 5/15/13

In 2013, OJ Simpson testified on his own behalf in his appeal to overturn his 2008 conviction on robbery and kidnapping charges in Las Vegas. The former football star admitted there was some pushing and shoving the night he left a crowded hotel room after retrieving his sports memorabilia from a dealer but denied seeing any weapons or hearing any threats.

A man from Albion has pleaded guilty to child porn charges.  32 year old Anthony Alello Jr faces up to 20 years in prison and a 250,000 dollar fine after communicating with an undercover FBI agent and then sending them links to online folders containing child pornography.  One folder contained approximately 2,484 videos of child pornography, and another folder contained approximately 45 videos of child pornography.  On March 24, 2022, the FBI executed a search warrant at Alello’s residence and seized his cell phone.  A subsequent forensic examination recovered approximately 1,744 images and six videos of child pornography, some of which depicted pre-pubescent children and violence against children.  Sentencing is scheduled for September 22, 2023, at 1:00 p.m.

The Genesee County Health Department is offering a free rabies immunization clinic on Thursday the 18th from 4 to 6:30 at the Genesee County Fairgrounds.  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 free clinics will be in August and October.  You can register in advance to save time and bring 2 of each filled out form with you.  Follow the link at WBTAI.com to register.

https://gohealthny.org/app/uploads/2021/05/GOHealthRabiesVaccinationPreRegistrationFillable.pdf

In a ceremony on Friday, Officials from Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel presented 2,000 complimentary tickets to William Joyce, Director of the Genesee County Veterans Service Agency.  250 Tickets from each of Batavia’s Summer Concert Series were included.  Batavia Downs CEO and President Henry Wojtaszek said that the “Downs has always supported our local veterans,” and that “this is the 5th Concert Series in a row that we’ve given tickets to Genesee County Veterans Service Agency.”

Driving tired and then abruptly trying to pull over and switch drivers is being blamed for the crash on the Thruway near the Batavia exit Thursday.  New York State Police said the driver of a westbound Toyota Corolla started to get tired and attempted to pull over onto the shoulder to switch places with someone else in the car.  Troopers said the abrupt move caused a tractor-trailer to strike the back of the car, which spun and came to a rest against a guardrail.  The driver of the car had a minor injury. No one else was hurt.  The crash caused a backup for several miles east of Exit 48 in Batavia.

Watch out for teen girls hitchhiking.  Two teenage girls, ages 13 and 14, are accused of robbing a woman after flagging her down for a ride in the Maplewood neighborhood of Rochester.  Police responded to Seneca Parkway around 8 p.m. Thursday for a report of a robbery.  The victim told police the teens stopped her and asked for a ride. She said during the ride, one of the suspects reported feeling sick and asked her to pull the car over.  The two suspects then allegedly struck the victim and stole property from her before running away.  Police found the suspects on Electric Avenue and took them into custody. They’re charged with second-degree robbery and fourth-degree grand larceny.  The suspects, who were listed as missing persons at the time of their arrest, were taken to the Monroe County Children’s Detention Center.

Timothy Szurgot

Timothy Szurgot of Rochester has been indicted by a Grand Jury in Genesee County. He’s accused of the crime of criminal impersonation and criminal possession of stolen property in the Town of Batavia, where it’s alleged he knowingly possessed stolen property – a 2018 Ford Focus – with intent to benefit himself or a person other than the owner, for the value of the car, which exceeded $3,000. At the time of his arrest last October, Szurgot was remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Brian Miles

Brian Miles of Rochester has been indicted of the crime of attempted forgery and criminal possession of a forged instrument. It’s alleged Miles attempted to defraud while at the ESL Federal Credit Union in Batavia during which time he filled out a check that belonged to another, for the purposes of personal financial gain. Miles has also been indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a controlled substance (crack cocaine), which he was found to have following his arrest at the credit union.

The LeRoy Central School District is proposing a tax levy increase of 9.1% and spending plan of just under $10.7 million in 2023-24. Both the Superintendent and Business Administrator noted that the state has under funded the district for years in Foundation Aid. With the new State budget, they’re trying to correct the state aid formula for schools. The spending plan will be voted on next week.

The Genesee County Parks, Recreation & Forestry is offering the last of their free spring birding walks tomorrow from 7:00am to 10:00am at DeWitt Recreation Area. You’ll learn things like how to identify birds by sight and sound. The walk is about one mile long over easy terrain. To sign up or for more information, please call 344-1122.

Mourners at memorial for victims of Tops shooting – file photo, 2022

Events will be taking place across Buffalo this weekend to mourn the 10 people killed in a shooting at a Tops supermarket. Last May 14th, Payton Gendron opened fire at a grocery store on Jefferson Avenue in what prosecutors say was a racially-motivated hate crime. In addition to the victims who tragically died, three people also ended up being hurt. Gendron has already been sentenced to life in prison and could get the death penalty if convicted on federal charges.

Attorney General James announces lawsuit – May 11, 2023

New York State Attorney General Letitia James is suing a gun accessory manufacturer for allegedly helping the Buffalo mass shooter. The AG has filed a lawsuit against Mean LLC, which manufactures an MA lock that is supposed to limit the amount of ammunition in a semiautomatic weapon. In the Buffalo shooter’s manifesto, he wrote that he was able to easily remove the lock from the AR-15 he used and add 30 rounds of detachable magazines. James alleges Mean LLC falsely advertises that installing an MA lock on a weapon makes high-capacity weapons legal in New York. The lawsuit aims to bar the company from doing business in the state.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has announced some brand-new legislation that’d provide free meals to all schoolchildren. The measure, called the Universal School Meals Program Act, would give free breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack to all kids who are in school regardless of income. The bill would also expand access to free meals during the summer months. Data shows that one in six New York children face hunger, and Gillibrand says she’s looking forward to getting this legislation passed.

Lilac Festival, file photo

Crowds have started to gather at Highland Park in Rochester for the start of the 2023 Lilac Festival. The festival is one of the largest of its kind in all of North America and features food, vendors, art, and live music as well as a close-up look at the city’s lilac gardens. The event, now in its 125th year, will run through May 21st. For more information, go to rochesterevents.com.

File photo of Radisson Hotel, Niagara Falls-Grand Island

A liquidation sale of the contents of the former Radisson hotel in Grand Island is now underway and will continue daily until all of the items have been purchased. Among the things people can buy include carpet, chandeliers, patio furniture and sofa beds. Last year, a developer from Utah said he was planning to convert the property into apartments, restaurants, and even a fitness center.

Fans of the Buffalo Bills now have some dates to circle on their calendars after the NFL released the team’s 2023 schedule. The Bills will start on the road when they take on Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets on Monday Night Football September 11th. Buffalo will also be battling its regional rival the New York Giants and the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. The Bills are coming off a season where they won 13 games and an AFC East title, but were defeated in the playoffs by the Cincinnati Bengals.

ELSEWHERE….

Ky Michaelson and his beer-powered motorcycle

A Minnesota man who invented a rocket-powered toilet and a jet-powered coffee pot has come up with a motorcycle that runs on beer. Ky Michaelson said the beer-powered bike he created in his garage in a Minneapolis suburb has a 14-gallon keg with a heating coil instead of a gas-powered engine. The coil heats the beer to 300 degrees, then super-heated steam in the nozzles propels the bike. Michaelson said he’s not a drinker so he can’t think of any better use for beer than to run his motorcycle.

Trevor Jacob parachuting from his plane (Photo: Frame from his YouTube video)

A YouTuber who intentionally crashed a plane to get views will plead guilty to a federal charge and could spend 20 years in prison. Trevor Jacob posted video of the crash to YouTube in December of 2021 and implied it was an accident. The former Olympic snowboarder jumped out of the plane prior to the crash, using a selfie stick to video himself while parachuting. Jacob disposed of the wreckage but recovered the cameras that had been onboard to record the moments of the crash. The video’s been viewed nearly 3,000,000 (million) times. Jacob will be sentenced later this year.

Michael Jordan’s jacket, up for auction through June 28.

Michael Jordan’s warm-up jacket from the 1992 Olympics “Dream Team” is up for auction. The Reebok jacket is estimated to bring 1 to 3 million dollars. The online auction that began Thursday runs until June 28th.

May 12 in history…

Artist drawing of the City Bank of New York as it appeared in the 1830’s. Edward Smith was caught robbing the bank.

In 1831…the nation’s first indicted bank robber, Edward Smith, was sentenced to five years hard labor at Sing Sing Prison.

Nathan Stubblefield with his induction wireless telephone in 1908.

In 1908…Wireless Radio Broadcasting is patented by Nathan Stubblefield.

Charles Augustus Lindbergh, Jr.

In 1932…The body of the kidnapped son of Charles Lindbergh was found in a wooded area of Hopewell, New Jersey. On March 1, 1932, Charles Augustus Lindbergh Jr. (born June 22, 1930), the 20-month-old son of aviators Charles Lindbergh and Anne Morrow Lindbergh, was abducted from his crib in the upper floor of the Lindberghs’ home, Highfields, in East Amwell, New Jersey, United States.

Cover story: Sam Jones (center) is congratulated by teammates in 1955 after being the first black man to pitch a no-hitter.

In 1955, Sam “Toothpick” Jones of the Chicago Cubs became the first black man to pitch a no hitter as he beat the Pittsburgh Pirates, four-to-nothing.

Formed in 1982, ended in 1986; but everything old is new again…re-formed in 2022.

In 1982, The U.S. Football League was formed.

New York State Attorney General Letitia James is suing a gun accessory manufacturer for allegedly helping the Buffalo mass shooter. The AG has filed a lawsuit against Mean LLC, which manufactures an MA lock that is supposed to limit the amount of ammunition in a semiautomatic weapon. In the Buffalo shooter’s manifesto, he wrote that he was able to easily remove the lock from the AR-15 he used and add 30 rounds of detachable magazines. James alleges Mean LLC falsely advertises that installing an MA lock on a weapon makes high-capacity weapons legal in New York. The lawsuit aims to ban the company from doing business in the state.

More than 400 area residents hit about 40 sites in Genesee County to volunteer their labor to make the community a little bit better as part of the annual United Way Day of Caring on Thursday.  Volunteers also went to six different locations for Arc GLOW, the Batavia Cemetery, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Cross Roads House, the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena, Eagle Star Housing, Ellicott Trail, the Peace Garden, Gilliam Grant Community Center, Holland Land Office Museum, Machphelah Cemetery, Purple Pony, Resurrection Parish, St. James Episcopal Church, St. Paul Lutheran, UMMC, and the Village of Elba, among other locations.

The next season schedule for the Buffalo Bills has been released and their first game of the season is against the Jets in Week 1 Monday night football.  The Bills will begin their quest for a fourth-straight AFC East title while facing off against new Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who the team acquired from the Green Bay Packers.  The two teams split their two matchups last season, with the Jets winning the week 9 matchup in New Jersey by a score of 20-17 and the Bills winning the week 14 matchup in Orchard Park by a score of 20-12.  In addition to the 2023 week 1 matchup, we also know that the Bills will play the Jacksonville Jaguars in a Week 5 matchup on October 8 in London, England.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has announced some brand-new legislation that’d provide free meals to all schoolchildren. The measure, called the Universal School Meals Program Act, would give free breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack to all kids who are in school regardless of income. The bill would also expand access to free meals during the summer months. Data shows that one in six New York children face hunger, and Gillibrand says she’s looking forward to getting this legislation passed.

If you like tractors and lawn equipment you should head over to the new LandPro Equipment grand opening today on West Saile Drive.  There will be refreshments, activities for kids and a drawing for one person to win a John Deere s100 Series Lawn Mower. The brand new facility sits on 14 acres and is 53000 square feet.  It will serve as the training and operations hub for LandPro in Western NY.  The event goes today from 10 to 5 and Saturday from 8 to 1.

Six Flags Darien Lake is opening for the season next weekend.  The first day for the Thrill Capital of New York is May 20th.  The park will be open through the 23rd of June just on the weekends and then through the week except on Tuesdays through Fall.  Darien Lake has announced a new laser light show every night, the Viva la Fiesta event with new food and live entertainers, new landscaping and renovations and new food options throughout the park.  The Predator Roller Coaster has had more of the titan track added to the Coaster.  Now 225 feet of the wooden coaster, well known for being rough on the back, has been retracked with metal track to increase its speed and give riders a smooth experience.  They are also still hiring for many positions.