Local News

There is a wind advisory in effect till 7pm for Orleans, Genesee and Wyoming Counties.  Southwest winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts of 50 to 55 mph expected.  Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few isolated power outages may result.  Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.

The Rochester Police Department is giving out free steering wheel locks to Kia and Hyundai owners who live in the city.  It comes as police say 450 Kias and Hyundais have been stolen in the city in the last year, as videos have circulated on social media nationwide showing how to steal the cars.  There is hope for the car owners as Kia and Hyundai are offering a free software patch that they say will make it harder to steal their vehicles.  The patch will be installed free of charge on vulnerable models, witThe software will also block the car from being started after the doors have been locked using the key fob remote control.h software that requires an actual key in the ignition to turn the vehicle on.  Hyundai dealers will also affix window stickers stating that the vehicle has anti-theft software installed.

31-year-old Cassandra Elmore of Batavia has been arrested on two bench warrants. The first was in connection with her failure to appear in court following arrest for several charges, including criminal possession of a weapon. The second was in reference to obstructing governmental administration.  Elmore has failed to appear for court at least a half dozen times.  Many of them associated with her dog, Oddey, having eaten cocaine.  She was arraigned in Batavia City Court, is being held at the Genesee County Jail and is scheduled to return to court on March 2nd.

Tuesday marked the end of an era at Rochester’s baseball stadium.  “Frontier Field” signage is coming, replaced by “Innovative Field” as the name of the venue that the Rochester Red Wings call home.  Two signs on the marquee overlooking Interstate 490 were replaced Tuesday.  By opening day, March 31, all signage will be changed over at the ballpark.  The Wings have played at the stadium since 1997. Henrietta-based Innovative Data Processing Solutions recently took over the stadium’s naming rights.

Just how sinful is New York State?  Wallethub ranked all 50 states by the seven deadly sins, Anger and Hatred, Jealousy, Excesses and Vices, Greed, Lust, Vanity and finally laziness.  1st place is unsurprisingly the home of Las Vegas, Nevada.  Last place is Wyoming.  New York ranks 10th in overall sinfulness.  The top 5 after Nevada are California, Louisiana, Florida and Pennsylvania.

Cassandra Elmore

31-year-old Cassandra Elmore of Batavia has been arrested on two bench warrants. The first was in connection with her failure to appear in court following arrest for several charges, including criminal possession of a weapon. The second was in reference to obstructing governmental administration. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court, is being held at the Genesee County Jail and is scheduled to return to court on March 2nd.

35-year-old Cordero Royes of Batavia is charged with criminal contempt and burglary after he was found in a local residence allegedly in violation of a stay-away order of protection. Royes was arraigned in Batavia City Court and remanded to Genesee County Jail. He will return to court at a later date.  ALSO: A 16-year-old female from Albion was arrested in Batavia for harassment. Investigation revealed there was a physical dispute between two juveniles on Cherry Street. She was issued an appearance ticket for a later court date and released.

Two men have been arrested following an interrupted robbery. 22-year-old Ryder Berry of Java and 28-year-old Brandon Brooks of Gowanda were charged after being caught attempting to burglarize a home in Java. When police arrived at the scene, the suspects fled on foot but troopers were eventually able to locate them; when caught, Berry started to act unruly and injured one of the officers. Both Berry and Brooks were arraigned in the town of Warsaw and remanded to Wyoming County Jail. They’ll both return to court tomorrow.

Kevin Richardson of Perry has been arrested and charged with falsifying business records at a retail store on Veteran’s Memorial Drive. In addition, he attempted to purchase a firearm at a time when he was ineligible to do so. Richardson was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to return to Town of Batavia Court on March 2nd.

James Monroe High School – file photo

The Rochester City School District has released a statement after a student was caught bringing a gun into a building. The weapon was found yesterday in the backpack of a 17-year-old student at James Monroe High School. The district says the loaded weapon was discovered during entry screening and there was never a threat to the safety of fellow students or staff. The teen was arrested and his case will be handled by family court.

Rescue and recovery at Niagara Falls, photo provided by Buffalo Police Department

New York State Parks Police is still investigating a tragic incident that happened at Niagara Falls State Park. They say fire department crews responded to the area of Terrapin Point around 1 p.m. and were advised that two people climbed over a railing and fell from the edge; it was a woman and her five-year-old son who fell about 90 feet into a gorge and struck ice that had formed at the bottom of it. The child was rescued and airlifted to Oishei Children’s Hospital for treatment of a head injury. Police later recovered the woman’s body and she was pronounced dead. Officials don’t believe she and the child ended up in the gorge accidentally.

Hallway in the Orleans Correctional Facility – file photo

A 45-year-old inmate at the Orleans Correctional Facility, who was already being housed in the Residential Rehabilitation Unit (RRU), sucker-punched an officer in the face as the inmate was being escorted to the visit room at the facility on Saturday. The inmate was being processed in the visit room when he struck the escorting officer in the face during an unprovoked attack. Two nearby officers immediately responded as the inmate continued to be combative with staff. Eventually officers were able to gain control of the inmate’s arms and placed him in wrist restraints, after which the inmate became compliant. The initial officer in the attack sustained swelling and bruising to his face and jaw, pain in his shoulder and potential inner ear damage. One of the other officers noted shoulder and wrist pain; both were transported to the hospital for further evaluation. Orleans Correctional is considered a medium security facility.

Governor Hochul in Rochester, February 13, 2023

Governor Hochul has revealed what her proposed 2024 budget would mean for the Finger Lakes if it is passed by the state Legislature. During a visit to Rochester yesterday, the governor said over two-billion-dollars in school aid would be given to the region. There would also be 15-million-dollars set aside to upgrade parks and 96-million-dollars would go towards transportation projects. Lawmakers have until April 1st to approve the budget on time.

The latest New York State Flu Tracker data shows Monroe County is still leading the area in flu cases. There were 30 cases of the virus reported during the week ending February 4th; Erie County had 27 new cases; Niagara County had 9; Chautauqua County had 4. Cayuga County had 3 and Ontario County had just 2. While the spread of the flu is declining statewide, people who aren’t vaccinated against the virus yet are still urged to get their flu shot.

Joseph Gramaglia, Buffalo Police Department Commissioner

The commissioner of the Buffalo Police Department says there are no plans to shut down a business where a triple-shooting happened over the weekend. Joseph Gramaglia said yesterday his agency will work with the owner of Club Marcella to increase safety there. A 21-year-old man passed away after being hit by gunfire on Sunday, but the other two victims survived. Gramaglia says the shooting was a targeted attack and that progress is being made towards tracking down a suspect.

New Yorkers who haven’t changed their political party affiliation ahead of the upcoming June primary are nearly out of time to do so. That’s because they have until the end of today to submit the necessary paperwork to their local Board of Elections office. The deadline to file through the Department of Motor Vehicles was yesterday, meaning that all documents must now be handed over in-person. This year’s primary is June 27th.

Peyton Krebs – file photo

The losing streak of the Buffalo Sabres has now hit four games after the team suffers another defeat on the road. Peyton Krebs and Dylan Cozens had goals for the Sabres as their team fell to the Los Angeles Kings by a final score of five-to-two at Crypto.com Arena last night. Buffalo goaltender Craig Anderson struggled and was only able to stop 23 of the 28 shots that he faced. The next game for the Sabres is tomorrow night against the Anaheim Ducks.

The viewership numbers for this year’s Super Bowl are huge. FOX Sports reports 113-million people watched the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Philadelphia Eagles in Arizona on Sunday, making it the most-watched Super Bowl in six years.

I don’t know who won but I’m pretty sure we’re related somehow…

The winner of the largest Powerball jackpot in history is finally coming forward. The California Lottery plans to reveal the winner at 10:30am Pacific Time. The winning ticket worth just over $2,000,000,000 (billion) was sold last November in suburban Los Angeles.

Parker

Staff at the Seneca Park Zoo are mourning the death of a six-year-old giraffe named Parker following what’s being called a tragic accident. The animal was found on Sunday trapped in support structure for the giraffe enclosure gate. Veterinarians tried to his life but unfortunately weren’t able to. There have been no other incidents at zoos across the country that have similar gate structures. The Seneca Park Zoo is going to modify its enclosure gate structure to prevent something like this from happening again.

A police chase in Rochester ended Monday afternoon when an SUV crashed into a church on the city’s west side.  Officers were working on an investigation near Dewey and Glenwood avenues around 3:30 p.m. when they heard gunshots coming from one block away.  Police said members of the Rochester Police Department, the U.S.  Marshals Service and New York State Police spotted an SUV and tried to pull it over, but the driver led them on a chase.  Police said the 37-year-old suspect crashed the car into Lake Avenue Baptist Church on Jones Avenue and fled briefly before he was arrested.

Tragedy at Niagara Falls as a mother leaps to her death with her child in tow.  New York State Park Police and the Niagara Falls Fire Department responded to an incident at the Niagara Gorge Monday afternoon.  A spokesperson for the fire department said crews responded to the area of Terrapin Point around 1 p.m. and were advised that two people climbed over a railing and fell from the edge. A woman and her five-year-old child were found around 70 yards from the top. The  child was rescued and transported to the hospital. Lifesaving measures were performed on the woman, but she was pronounced dead. She was recovered by the NYSP aviation unit.  New York State Park Police said the investigation is ongoing but it is not believed it was an accident.Help is always available. If you or someone you know needs someone to talk to you can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is putting out a reminder that, although lighting kits are available for vehicles, many do not comply with Vehicle and Traffic Laws.  They remind vehicle owners of the laws about how lights are used on vehicles.  Headlamps must be of equal power and white in color, light bars are not permitted on public highways.  Tail Lamps must be of equal power and red to amber in color.  Turn signals have to be red or amber in the back and amber in the front.  The License plate light must be white.  The back up lights have to be white.  Blue and Green lights are only for emergency vehicles.  Any violations will be subject to fines. 

Students at St. John Fisher University are getting ready to dance the night away.  The school hosted a ‘Very Beary Brunch’ Monday, ahead of the 41st annual Teddi Dance for Love.  The 24-hour dance marathon benefiting Camp Good Days & Special Times is set to begin Friday at 8 p.m.  The event is one of St. John Fisher’s most time-honored traditions.  Organizers hope to raise $130,000, which would top last year’s total of $127,000.

The Seneca Park Zoo announced Monday that Parker, the zoo’s 6-year-old male Masai giraffe, has died.  Medical staff found him unresponsive Sunday morning, caught in a support structure for the giraffe enclosure gate.  Parker came to the zoo in 2018 and was paired with females Kipenzi and Iggy. He was the father to Olmstead, who was born last April.  Zoo superintendent Steve Lacy says that this was a completely unforeseen and unprecedented event.  The zoo said no similar incidents have been reported at other zoos with similar gates. The zoo is working to fix the enclosure gate structure to prevent such an incident from happening again.

The  2022-2023  Richmond Memorial Library “History by the Hearth” Lecture series continues on Thursday, February 16th at 7:00 pm in the Reading Room with a presentation on “The President’s Lady, Martha Dandridge Custis Washington.”  This lecture in the series is a Presidents Day collaboration between the Richmond Memorial Library and the Anna Ingasbe Lovell Chapter NSDAR.   Special Collections Librarian, Deborah Wood will be presenting on the life of this fascinating first “First Lady” of the United States of America.

Jason Anderson

41-year-old Jason Anderson of Batavia has been taken into custody and held at the Genesee County Jail. He’s charged with robbery, criminal possession of a weapon, petit larceny and criminal mischief. It’s alleged Anderson cut a chain lock that was securing an electric bicycle while parked outside of a business on Veteran’s Memorial Drive.

Monroe High School (file photo)

Rochester Police say a loaded gun was found in the bag of a 17-year-old student at Monroe High School on Alexander Street this morning. Officers responded to the school just before 9:00am after getting a 9-1-1 call that a student brought a gun. According to police, the school’s security found a Taurus 9mm handgun loaded with 12 rounds during an entry screening. The gun and the male student were safely secured before officers arrived. The student is being detained and police are investigating.

Buffalo Police car – file photo

Buffalo police say that three people were shot early yesterday morning inside Club Marcella. A 21-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene and two others were injured and taken to local hospitals. Both are reported to be in stable condition as of this morning. Police said the shooting stemmed from some type of argument. This is the second shooting in the past two weeks at the club. A security guard was shot in the parking lot during the previous incident late last month.

New York State Troopers are investigating a fatal crash in Williamson. They said a car sped away after a traffic stop on Ridge Road on Saturday, and hit a parked car, a shed, and then a home. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported and the investigation continues.

57-year-old David Wahl of Scottsville has been charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and other moving violations. He was allegedly found in possession of narcotics following a traffic stop last week in Bergen. Wahl was released on an appearance ticket.

According to Triple A, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $3.42. The state average is a dime higher at $3.52; in Batavia, we’re paying $3.39 per gallon, up 4 cents from a week ago and up 7 cents from last month. Last year at this time, we were paying $3.60 per gallon.

Casey Mittelstadt – file photo

The Buffalo Sabres will be kicking off their west coast road trip tonight as they try and avoid a fourth straight loss. The Sabres are set to take on the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena. On Saturday, Buffalo was blown out by the Calgary Flames by a final score of 7-2. Tage Thompson scored the first goal of the game and then Casey Mittelstadt scored the second, but it was all downhill from there. Face-off for this evening’s contest is set for 10:30.

The New York State Department of Health has launched a new campaign that’s aimed at reducing the number of deadly drug overdoses. The goal is to provide people with an understanding of how to lower the number of overdoses as fentanyl continues to be found in a variety of drugs. The campaign also emphasizes how important the use of naloxone is as a tool to save a person’s life if they have overdosed. People who are struggling with addiction can call 1-877-8-HOPENY 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Cat and dog – file photo

Animal shelters and humane societies across the Empire State are going to be sharing over $7,500,000 in funding. Governor Hochul says this money can be used towards upgrades at those facilities to improve animal care and also to ensure dogs and cats are adopted. This is the latest round of funding for the state’s Companion Animal Capital Fund. Since 2017, more than $27,000,000 (million) has been dedicated to this program.

Please play responsibly.

The Powerball jackpot is starting to grow again. Lottery officials say no one picked all six numbers in Saturday’s drawing. That means tonight’s jackpot will be worth $45,000,000 (million). Please play responsibly.

With increased demand for mental health services and many providers saying they are booked solid a new option is available in Buffalo.  The Kirsten Vincent Respite & Recovery Center is offering patients care at several levels of crisis under one roof.  Shannon Higbee, CEO at Recovery Options Made Easy said the idea behind the Kirsten Vincent Respite & Recovery Center first came to be during the height of the pandemic when the need for mental health care surged.  The services are inpatient and in several locations in Buffalo.  All services are 100 percent voluntary.  

City School District employees, administrators, teachers, and staff, along with first responders from Batavia, participated in a Special Olympics fundraiser on Friday — a polar plunge — outside of John Kennedy Intermediate School.  The participants ran under the spray of a fire truck’s hose and got soaked.  The Special Olympics honors the school district that raises the most money, the Batavia event raised $8,700, the most in Western New York.  Special Olympics will host an ice cream social at John Kennedy sometime this year and the school’s colors will be part of the Polar Plunge sweatshirt next year.

Richmond Memorial Library will be hosting a zoom event this Wednesday with Claire Evans to talk about Alf Wright.  Wright, better known as James Herriot is the focus of the book series and a film and several tv shows including the PBS show, All Creatures Great and Small.  He was a country veterinarian for 50 years in the United Kingdom.  The event will be at 7pm. 

Emmanuel Baptist Church on Oak Street in Batavia is beginning their 8 part Free dinner and a bible study series.  Every Monday starting today at 6:15 they will be gathering to watch the episodes of the Chosen Bible tv series season 3 and eating a home cooked dinner.  The church invites anyone who would like to come and learn more about who Jesus is and what he did during His ministry 2000 years ago as portrayed in the series. 

Buffalo Safety Damar Hamlin will play NFL football again according to the NFL Players Association medical director Thom Mayer.  Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest during the Bills game vs the Bengals and was worked on by medical technicians for over 9 minutes to get his heart started again.  He has since promoted learning CPR and been recognized for his charitable work.  His doctors say he has made a remarkable recovery.  At the Super Bowl during the pregame pageantry, the NFL honored the Bills and Cincinnati Bengals training and medical staffs, along with the staff at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. A minute later, Hamlin joined them, putting his hands together to form a heart. He also received hugs from several of the first responders.

The Buffalo Sabres lost to the Calgary Flames 7 to 2 after the week off.  Tage Thompson scored the first goal of the game and then Casey Middlestadt scored the second, but it was all downhill from there.  They’ll hit the road for their next three games. A western road trip starting Monday against the Los Angeles Kings.

Sunday the requirement for people to mask up in healthcare settings will expire and New York State is not renewing it.  Back in September the CDC loosened it’s mask requirements but New York continued the renewal for staff, patients, and visitors in healthcare settings regardless if they were vaccinated or not.  This rule change will apply to hospitals, nursing homes, home health care and hospice agencies, and diagnostic and treatment centers.  University of Rochester Medical Center and Rochester Regional Health responded to the announcement by saying that they will continue requiring masks in their facilities, citing the emergency departments and hospitals being at or near capacity. 

If you received a pink letter in the mail it means you were caught buying drugs in the North Clinton Area of Rochester.  The City of Rochester has been mailing out these pink letters since November and city representatives say that most of them are going out of the city limits.  The initiative is meant to target those buying drugs, mailing them a letter telling them they were seen buying drugs and offering a list of criminal and safety risks.  The City says that several of the letters went to Batavia and Corfu.  

All flavored tobacco products could soon be banned in the state of New York.  The legislation, included in the Governor’s state budget would end the sale of menthol cigarettes, flavored cigars and cigarillos, and flavored smokeless tobacco. It expands the state’s ban on the sale of flavored vaping products.  The legislation would also add $1 to the tax of cigarette products in New York State.

February 17th Everpresent Church is holding a Mass Deliverance Service for people who struggle with mental and physical disorders.  While many disorders have a physical component Pastor Jason Norton believes that there is a spiritual component as well.  This service is a healing service for anyone who wants to attend.  The doors to the church, located in the City Center in Batavia, will open at 5:30 and the service starts at 6pm.  

The Notre Dame Running with the Irish 5K Run/Walk is back for its second year and is set to take place on March 11.  The event will kick off with a Kids Fun Run for children under 11 years old at 9 a.m., followed by the 5K run/walk starting at 10 a.m. The course will start behind the school and take runners north on Richmond Avenue, around the VA facility, and up and down Redfield Parkway before returning to the school.  Participants in the Kids Fun Run can register for $10, with prizes being given to all participants. T-shirts for the kids can be purchased separately. The 5K registration fee is $25 and includes a cotton long-sleeved T-shirt with the race logo.  All proceeds from the event will go towards supporting the athletic department at Notre Dame.

Xavier Hand

Recovered during the arrest of Xavier Hand

The Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force announced today that police arrested 26-year-old Xavier Hand of Medina. He’s charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of a loaded firearm. Hand is currently on probation and has been committed to the Orleans County Jail. The investigation is ongoing; further charges and more arrests are pending.

43-year-old Justin Swift of LeRoy has been charged with grand larceny. This followed an investigation by the Genesee County Department of Social Services. It’s alleged that Swift failed to report that he had earned wages through employment, resulting in him receiving over $3300 ($3324) in SNAP benefits for which he was not entitled. Swift was arrested and arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on recognizance to appear at a later date.

Sidney Mellerson

Keshaun Atwood

Two men are now facing multiple charges following what’s being called a massive drug bust in Erie County. Sheriff John Garcia says this investigation began a few months ago and led to five ounces of fentanyl, more than three kilograms of cocaine, over $200,000 (thousand) in cash and eight guns being seized. Sidney Mellerson and Keshaun Atwood have been taken into custody and arraigned. This was the second big drug bust in the area since the beginning of the month.

Law enforcement has released early impressions from the investigation into a truck accident. It happened Wednesday afternoon in the Town of Wethersfield; they determined that 72-year-old George Foote of Gainesville failed to yield the right-of-way to a tractor-trailer truck while taking a left turn; the truck struck the rear end of Foote’s trailer, struck a guard rail and rolled over onto its side in a ditch. The driver of the vehicle was identified as 59-year-old Mark Ikeler of Gainesville who was pronounced deceased at the scene. Foote was issued a citation for failing to yield the right of way at a stop sign; the investigation continues.

Dimitri Cash, Sr.

A man accused of plotting to kill a Monroe County Family Court judge has been sentenced. Dimitri Cash, who’s already serving time for arranging the kidnapping of his children from their foster home, was sentenced yesterday to 8 to 25 years in prison. Cash was convicted in December of conspiring with others to murder Judge Stacey Romeo because he was upset with her rulings in his custody case. Cash defended himself in court, arguing his actions were not a crime because Romeo is still alive. Prosecutors said the murder plans went as far as staking out the judge’s home and neighborhood, monitoring her daily routine and doing online research about her life. Cash’s sentence will run consecutively to his sentence of 115 years to life for his separate case involving kidnapping and robbery charges.

Starpoint High School, Lockport, NY

The Starpoint High School wrestling team is currently under investigation by the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office. Earlier this week, it was announced that the rest of the team’s season has been canceled following serious allegations that have been made against one or more members of the varsity wrestling squad. No other details about those claims have been revealed. The Lockport school was supposed to host a wrestling tournament this weekend, but the event has been moved to North Tonawanda.

Love will be in the air as Valentine’s Day nears, and the state Division of Consumer Protection is warning New Yorkers about romance scams. The agency says romance scams occur when a criminal lies about their identity and feigns romantic interest to steal from victims. Officials say if someone you haven’t met asks you for money, assume it’s a scam. Also, never give out personal information to someone you’ve met online and only use trusted online dating sites. People can also do a reverse image search of an individual’s profile photo to see if it’s linked to another name or scam.

The big game is coming up on Sunday, and police across the state are going to be cracking down on drunk drivers during this Super Bowl weekend. People who are out on the roads can expect to see increased patrols from today through Monday as part of the latest STOP-DWI campaign. Police say folks can ensure that they get home safely by having a designated driver or by using a taxi or rideshare service. Drivers who see any suspicious or dangerous activities while traveling should dial 911 right away.

Damar Hamlin at NFL Honors – 2/9/23

Damar Hamlin stole the show at the NFL Honors. The 12th annual year-end awards gala took place in Phoenix last night, just days ahead of the Super Bowl. The highlight of the show was when the Buffalo Bills safety made a surprise appearance and received a standing ovation after suffering cardiac arrest on the field earlier this year.

Keybank Center – file photo

The Buffalo Sabres will be returning from break this weekend as they look to continue their push towards making the playoffs. The Sabres are set to host the Calgary Flames at KeyBank Center. Buffalo last played on February 1st when they were defeated by the Carolina Hurricanes 5-1. Face-off for tomorrow’s contest is set for 12:30.

A man accused of plotting to kill a Monroe County Family Court judge was sentenced Thursday.  Dimitri Cash, who’s already serving time for arranging the kidnapping of his children from their foster home, was sentenced to 8-25 years in prison.  Cash was convicted in December of conspiring with others to murder Judge Stacey Romeo because he was upset with her rulings in his custody case. Cash defended himself in court, arguing his actions were not a crime because Romeo is still alive.  Prosecutors said the murder plans went as far as staking out the judge’s home and neighborhood, monitoring her daily routine and doing online research about her life.  Cash’s sentence will run consecutively to his sentence of 115 years to life for his separate case involving kidnapping and robbery charges.

In an effort to combat fraud NY is rolling out new inspection stickers.  The new stickers will come in blank rolls that will then have the inspection and vehicle information printed as needed instead of having preprinted stickers that were a target of theft.  Shop owners had to lock the old ones away for fear that they would be stolen and used as all that needed to be done was write on it and pop out the month tab.  Now they will come with QR codes and specific info that will be scannable by the police.  Right now, about 60 to 70 auto service centers in the state have the new equipment, while more printers are expected to be rolled out in the second quarter of 2023.

In anticipation of the many gatherings for Super Bowl weekend, local law enforcement agencies will once again be participating in a STOP-DWI campaign. Starting tomorrow and through Monday, they will be coordinating efforts across the state to reduce the number of impaired, driving-related injuries and deaths. If you see anyone driving erratically over the weekend or anytime, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

Go Art is holding a fundraiser for the Peruvian Outreach Project that helps orphaned children in Peru.  There will be a dinner and basket raffle fundraiser to help with expenses for outreach efforts. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and dinner is at 7 p.m. on March 25.  Organizer Kathy Houlihan hopes to have at least 20 baskets for the event, and winning tickets will be drawn at 8:30 p.m.  Peruvian dishes will be served and there will be a cash bar and door prizes.  Presale tickets are 30 dollars and can be purchased online with venmo or paypal or by mail.  

David M McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena has a new name for the zamboni machine.  The pepsi sponsored ice cleaning and shaping machine is called Skully McPepsi.  The Zamboni’s facelift is a product of Pepsi Upstate New York Market business manager and Batavian Tom Fluker’s initial idea of an imposing skull in a hockey setting, the artistry of Janette Biehler of Beals Graphic Design of Rochester and the precision “wrapping” by Guy Laesser’s Unitech Application of Le Roy.  The Zamboni now sports space age colors of purple and blue, punctuated by lightning and the logos of Pepsi Zero, Gatorade, McCarthy Ice Arena, Batavia Notre Dame United and Ramparts youth hockey.

It is too warm out for a good snowball fight.  So the worlds largest snowball fight has been canceled.  The Pirate Toy Fund was organizing an attempt to beat the Guinness World Record on February 18th in Chili at the Archer Rd Field.  With temperatures expected to be in the 60s at times next week there isn’t enough snow.  Organizers hope to host and beat the record next year.

A high wind warning is in effect overnight tonight.

From 7:00 this evening to 7:00am tomorrow morning Genesee, Wyoming and Orleans Counties are under a High Wind Warning. Southwest winds at 30 to 40 mph with occasional gusts of 60 mph are predicted. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult and people should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows.

New York State wants to get rid of natural gas heating and cooking but it won’t come overnight. According to the recently released New York Scoping Plan, by 2025 all new construction of low rise buildings will need to be electric. By 2028 all new high-rise construction will also need to be electric only as will be the case for all replacement appliances by 2030. Finally, new vehicles in 2035 that are sold in New York State will be electric only.

In anticipation of the many gatherings for Super Bowl weekend, local law enforcement agencies will once again be participating in a STOP-DWI campaign. Starting tomorrow and through Monday, they will be coordinating efforts across the state to reduce the number of impaired, driving-related injuries and deaths. If you see anyone driving erratically over the weekend or anytime, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

Payton Gendron (file photo)

The man who pulled the trigger in a mass shooting at a Buffalo Tops store is expected to appear in federal court next week. According to WIVB-TV, Payton Gendron is scheduled to face a judge next Thursday, February 16th. In November, Gendron pleaded guilty to state charges for opening fire at the Jefferson Avenue store last May. There were 10 people killed and three others hurt in what was called a racially motivated attack. If Gendron is found guilty on federal charges, he could get the death penalty.

Unidentified teenager receiving Covid booster shot (file photo)

The number of confirmed Covid cases has more than doubled in our region in the past month. The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments reports today there were 96 confirmed Covid cases during the measured week ending February 7th. That compares to 45 cases this time, one month ago. The seven-day average positivity rate for the two counties is 6.5%; overall, Western New York has the highest rate in the state at 12.48%. Long Island has the lowest at 4.02%. The federal CDC currently lists both Genesee and Orleans Counties at the medium community risk level. Governor Hochul continues to urge people to take basic steps to protect against the spread of viral respiratory infections that are more common in the winter season.

Pothole in road (file photo)

Governor Hochul has announced that $100,000,000 (million) in state funds will be used to repave roads impacted by extreme weather. The money will help cover repaving projects in over 60 locations statewide, totaling more than 500 lane miles of pavement. Roads that are going be fixed in our region are in Livingston, Wayne, Monroe, Ontario, Yates, and Genesee counties. The governor says these repair projects are vital to help ensure roads are safe.

Ryan Stencel

A 20-year-old man is facing criminally negligent homicide charges for causing a crash that left two people dead. Prosecutors say Ryan Stencel was driving on Warner Road in Lancaster last March when the vehicle slammed into a tree and caught fire. Two passengers in the vehicle were killed but Stencel only needed treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. Erie County District Attorney John Flynn says Stencel acted with substantial and unjustifiable risk while behind the wheel. Stencel is facing prison time if convicted.

Damar Hamlin with award – 2/8/23

Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills is getting some much-deserved recognition for all of the work that has done off the field. Yesterday, Hamlin was named the 2023 NFLPA Alan Page Community Award winner, which is the highest honor the NFLPA can give to a player. Hamlin made national headlines earlier this year when he ended up going into cardiac arrest during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Hamlin, who is still recovering, was one of five finalists for the award. The NFLPA is going to donate $100,000 to his Chasing M’s Foundation.

NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is standing up for the league’s officials. Goodell said he doesn’t believe officiating in the NFL has “ever been better” when speaking at his annual Super Bowl week news conference Wednesday. The national spotlight has been on officiating following some questionable calls in the league’s conference championship games last month.

Tage Thompson (file photo)

As the NHL All-Star Week comes to an end, and with 32 games left in the regular season, the Buffalo Sabres are heading into playoff contention. This season the Sabres have scored 186 times, averaging 3.72 goals per game, ranking them 3rd in the NHL. Credit goes to Tage Thompson, Dylan Cozens, Jeff Skinner and Alex Tuch. The Sabres go up against the Calgary Flames on Saturday at 12:30 in the afternoon at Keybank Center after a week off.

From 7pm tonight to 7am Friday morning Genesee, Wyoming and Orleans counties are under a High Wind Warning.  Southwest winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected.  Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.  People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows.

New York State wants to get rid of natural gas heating and cooking but it won’t come overnight.  According to a plan released in the New York Scoping Plan by 2025 all new construction of low rise buildings will need to be electric.  By 2028 all new high rise construction will need to be electric only.  By 2030 all replacement appliances will need to be electric only.  And lastly by 2035 all new vehicles sold in New York State will be electric only.

On Friday a Batavia City councilman had a visit from two criminals at his home.  John Canale was working in his kitchen when 2 women came to his door complaining of the bitter cold and asking to come in and get warmed up.  He says one was crying and they were both shivering.  Canale says that he noticed a police presence on the street outside the home and then the women left on foot suddenly.  He called the police and found that they were being looked for by the police in connection to a theft at Pawn King.  Police caught them hiding in an outbuilding with the help of K-9 units.  31 year old Breana Brummond and 26 year old Brittany Hollaert, both of Rochester have been charged with petit larceny and attempted grand larceny, criminal trespass and several traffic offenses.  

The Batavia City government finished the meeting on Tuesday night without adding any amendments to the budget.  City manager Rachel Tabelski said there are no plans to raise assessments.  The city police budget of 4,323,847 dollars was talked over including the K-9, MRAP and old police station.  Police Chief Heubusch said he hoped the 10 Main street station will be having it’s last year on the budget as the new station is being built next year.  Once again he lamented how few people were taking the civil service exam and how they will be filling the 3 vacancies on the force.  

Batavia City School District is selling their old Pianos.  They had the three Baldwin Hamilton Upright pianos at auction but they didn’t get any bids so they are instead selling them individually.  The pianos are available on a first-come-first-served basis, and they will need to be picked up.  If you’re interested, please contact Jim Jacobs via email (jjacobs@bataviacsd.org) by Friday, February 17.

Damar Hamlin made a brief appearance in Phoenix during Super Bowl week to receive the NFLPA’s Alan Page Community Award.  The Buffalo Bills safety received the award at the Phoenix Convention Center on Wednesday, a little over a month after he went into cardiac arrest and needed to be resuscitated on the field in Cincinnati.  Hamlin was one of five finalists for the Alan Page Award, which annually recognizes one player who goes above and beyond to perform community service in his team city and/or hometown.  Hamlin’s toy drive fundraiser received unexpected GoFundMe donations in the days and weeks after he collapsed. Chasing M’s has since raised more than $9 million.

The Buffalo Sabres are in new territory as they are heading into playoff contention now that the All Star Week is coming to an end.  There are 32 games left in the regular season.  This season the Sabres have scored 186 times, averaging 3.72 goals per game, ranking them 3rd in the NHL.  Credit goes to Tage Thompson, Dylan Cozens, Jeff Skinner and Alex Tuch.  The Sabres go up against the Calgary Flames on Saturday at 12:30 in the afternoon at Keybank Center after a week off.

Unidentified person forgot to use extra hair spray

There is a high wind watch Thursday and Friday in Orleans and Genesee Counties. The southwest winds are expected to start by 7:00pm tomorrow night and gust at times up to 40 miles per hour; occasional 60 mile per hour gusts are possible, especially between 11pm and 2am. The watch is in effect until 7:00am Friday morning. Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

A fatal house fire is under investigation in Wyoming County. The fire occurred around 9:15 a.m. Tuesday at 1291 Maxon Road in the Town of Bennington. Emergency crews from many towns were called to the scene to assist. According to police, one woman was found dead in the home. The house has been ruled a total loss and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

GENESEE COUNTY SHERIFF’s REPORT: 37-year-old Jason Lebar of Bethany has been charged with criminal mischief and petit larceny. Lebar is accused of prying a vehicle emblem from the rear of a pickup truck at a local dealership last Wednesday. There was reportedly significant damage to the vehicle. Lebar is also accused of trying to remove another emblem but destroyed it in the process. He was arraigned in City Court and released. ALSO: 32-year-old Michael Shelter of Oakfield has been charged with criminal contempt, aggravated family offense and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. This followed a police investigation into a 9-1-1 hang-up call in the City of Batavia and discovered an apparent disturbance involving Shelter and a person under an order of protection. Shelter allegedly fled the scene in the victim’s car. Shelter was jailed pending arraignment. ALSO: 39-year-old Jessica Holtz of Batavia was arrested on two warrants, following her release from Monroe County jail. Both warrants are associated with alleged petit larceny. Holtz was held pending arraignment. ALSO: 32-year-old Krista Kiblin of Rochester was charged with petit larceny. She allegedly stole merchandise from an unspecified Batavia location late last month. Kiblin was issued an appearance ticket. ALSO: An unidentified 18-year-old male, of Washington Avenue, Batavia has been jailed and is held on bail or bond. The youth was arrested last Wednesday after an investigation into a physical altercation and a violation of an order of protection in the City of Batavia.

INDICTMENTS, from Genesee County Court: Frank Falleti has been indicted on one count of criminal possession of a forged instrument (a Class D felony) and one count of falsifying a business record (a Class E felony). He is accused of possessing a forged New York State registration document with the intent to defraud or deceive another person. Falleti is also accused of knowingly not entering a 2019 Mazda into the state online registry, with the intent to defraud that included intent to commit, aid or conceal another crime. ALSO: Joseph Martino is indicted on one count of burglary in the third degree (a Class D felony), and grand larceny (in the fourth degree). Martino is accused of entering a building on East Main Street, Batavia, and stealing property with a value in excess of $1,000. ALSO: Chad Williams has been indicted on one count of criminal possession of stolen property (a Class E felony), criminal possession of a forged instrument (a Class D felony), criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree, and criminal impersonation. Williams allegedly was found in possession of a 2008 Honda Civic on Nov. 8, along with a forged Texas motor vehicle registration. He is accused of knowingly possessing narcotics packaging. He is also accused of assuming the identity of another person.

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles says the inspection stickers that are placed on the windshield of your vehicle are getting a new look. The print-on-demand stickers will be printed at inspection stations and include vehicle-specific information on them in order to enhance security. The color of the sticker itself will continue to change depending on the expiration year. The current stickers are in the process of being phased out.

With New Yorkers handing over a lot of money to pay for groceries these days, the Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is providing tips on how you can save at the supermarket. The agency recommends purchasing items that you frequently buy in bulk and planning meals in advance to reduce food waste. Also, enroll in the reward programs that stores offer and look for coupons online. Finally, shop strategically by taking inventory of what you have at home before going to the store.

Yassin Abdikadir

The Erie County District Attorney’s Office says that a Buffalo man is facing some prison time after admitting that he stole a fire truck. Prosecutors say 26-year-old Yassin Abdikadir took the vehicle last July while it was at the scene of an emergency call in the area of Main Street and West Huron Street. Abdikadir then abandoned the vehicle near Delaware Avenue and Allen Street and was later found hiding in a garbage tote. He could be ordered to spend up to 15 years behind bars when he’s sentenced in April.

Kim Pegula (file photo)

The daughter of Buffalo Bills co-owner Kim Pegula has provided an update on her mother’s current condition. Jessica Pegula says that Kim suffered a cardiac arrest at the family’s home in Florida in June and that CPR likely saved her life. She went on to say that her mom is continuing to recover but is struggling to communicate and has memory issues. Kim Pegula and her husband Terry are also the co-owners of the Buffalo Sabres.

Dylan Cozens (file photo)

The Buffalo Sabres have announced that they’ve agreed to a contract extension with center Dylan Cozens. The deal will last for seven years and pay Cozens more than $49,000,000 (million). This season, Cozens has tallied 17 goals and 43 points in the 49 games he has played with the team that drafted him in 2019. Cozens is now the third player to sign a 7-year contract extension with the Sabres in the last six months, joining Tage Thompson and Mattias Samuelsson. All three are under the age of 26. The Sabres are going to be back in action on Saturday when they host the Calgary Flames. The puck drops at 12:30.

An investigation is underway after two postal carriers reported that they were robbed in Rochester. The first robbery happened January 31st on High Point Trail and the second crime occurred about an hour later near Clarissa Street and Tubman Way. In both incidents, equipment was stolen from the mail carriers but they were not injured. Anyone with information can contact the Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455.

There is a high wind watch Thursday and Friday in Orleans and Genesee Counties.  The winds are expected to start at 7pm Thursday Night and blow at 30-40 miles per hour with possible 60 mile per hour gusts till 7am Friday morning.  Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

The Wings Over Batavia Air Show has added some big names, and some big planes to the lineup.  Already, about a dozen performers have been lined up for the show, which is seeking volunteers and sponsors.  Headlining the list of acts is the USAF A-10 Thunderbolt II Demo Team, the Air Force’s premier close air support aircraft that provides invaluable protection to the troops on the ground.  Also scheduled are: Ghostwriter Airshows, Ken Reider an aerobatic flier, High Flight Mustangs P-51 Demo Team, and many more.  The show is scheduled for Sat., Sept. 2 and Sun., Sept. 3 – Labor Day weekend — with starting times to be confirmed.  Organizers are leaning toward starting around 5 p.m. both days this fall.  

St. James Episcopal Church, Batavia, has joined with St. Peter’s, Eggertsville, to provide assistance to a Ukrainian family newly relocated to Western NY.  The family of five has received assistance with establishing their household, English language education, and emotional support. Currently, the mother who holds a masters in early childhood education but is unable to work in the U.S. due to multiple barriers, is handmaking pierogies to help support her family. Community support would be most appreciated.  Pierogies, choice of potato with cheese or just cheese, are available in bags of 12 for a suggested donation of $10 each (cash only) from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to noon Saturday at St James.

If you plan on changing party to vote in the Primary you need to get your registration information in between now and Valentines day. Any change of enrollment made from February 15 through July 5th shall be effective on July 5th. To be eligible to vote in a Party Primary, a voter must be registered with the Party holding the Primary election.  Forms can be found by following the link at WBTAi.com.  

http://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/elections/index.php

The Buffalo Sabres and Dylan Cozens have agreed to terms on a 7-year contract extension worth $49.7 million.  Cozens was drafted by the Sabres in the first round, seventh overall, of the 2019 NHL Draft. He turns 22 years old on Thursday.  He has played 169 games across parts of three seasons with the Sabres and has tallied 34 goals and 60 assists for 94 points.  So far this season he has tallied 17 goals and 26 assists for 43 points, all single-season career highs, in 49 games.  Cozens is now the third player to sign a 7-year contract extension with the Sabres in the last six months, joining Tage Thompson and Mattias Samuelsson. All three are under the age of 26.

The scene where Officer Blackchief was injured

A Cheektowaga police officer is in critical but stable condition after he was hurt on the job. Yesterday, 45-year-old Troy Blackchief was trying to put down a stop stick near Union Road and Route 33 in an attempt to end a pursuit related to stolen vehicles. Blackchief ended up being hit by one of those vehicles and was rushed to a nearby hospital where he underwent emergency surgery. At this time, no suspects have been taken into custody. Anyone with information can contact police at 716-686-7461.

Robert Morris School, 80 Union Street

The Batavia City School District is now accepting registration applications for universal pre-kindergarten for the 2023-24 school year. The District is offering five full-day programs and two half-day programs. The pre-k program is part of Jackson Primary School and is located at Robert Morris and at one community-based organization. Universal pre-kindergarten students must be four years of age on or before December 1. The deadline for applications is May 1 for the upcoming school year. Please call if you have questions: 585-343-2480 (ext. 1003).

Zaire with his mother Zeneta – file photo from 2008

President Biden will be giving his State of the Union address tonight, and the mother of one of the surviving victims of the mass shooting at a Buffalo Tops store will be the guest of Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. Zeneta Everhart says she’s been focused on preventing future gun violence since her son Zaire was shot at the Jefferson Avenue location last May. There were ten people killed and three others injured in what was called a racially-motivated attack. The shooter, Payton Gendron, has already pleaded guilty to the state charges filed against him and remains in jail.

19-year-old Tyrone Monroe, Jr. of Attica is charged with grand larceny and falsifying business records. Monroe is accused of stealing money and falsifying records to try and conceal the crime while employed at Flying-J in Pembroke. He was arrested on Jan. 31 and issued an appearance ticket.

27-year-old Keilah Hart of Rochester is charged with introducing prison contraband and criminal possession of a controlled substance. Hart is accused of possessing a controlled substance while being booked into the Genesee County Jail on an arrest warrant late last month. She was released on an appearance ticket.

The United States Geological Survey says the epicenter of the earthquake that rocked communities across the region was located in the area of West Seneca. The 3.8 magnitude trembler hit early yesterday morning, but no serious damage or injuries were reported. The earthquake was felt in at least a 30-mile radius, including Niagara Falls. It was the strongest earthquake to strike Western New York in decades.

Gesundheit!

The latest New York State Flu Tracker data has revealed Monroe County continues to have the highest number of cases. There were 44 new infections reported there during the week ending January 28th. Erie County once again placed second with 35 new infections; Ontario County had the third-highest number of new cases during that same time period with 11; Wayne County had 5; Niagara County, four and Orleans County had just 3. People who still haven’t received their flu shot can schedule an appointment at vaccines.gov.

Chad Becker

Livingston County deputies say they’ve arrested a Geneseo resident in connection with a recent vandalism spree. According to investigators, Chad Becker smashed the window of a vehicle, a garage door window and a shed at a residence on West Lake Road in the town last month. Deputies later found that Becker damaged residential windows and garage windows at two other homes in the region. After being arraigned, Becker was released on his own recognizance.

Erie County Fair

12-day passes for the Erie County Fair went on sale this morning, exactly 183 days from when gates open to start the 183rd Fair. However, there will be a limited number of passes available and they can be purchased at ecfair.org for $60.00. This year’s fair begins on August 9th and runs through August 20th.

Lucky dog…

Someone in the state of Washington is holding a Powerball ticket worth more than $750,000,000 (million) following Monday night’s drawing. The lump sum prize is over $407,000,000 (million).

Movie theaters haven’t been doing well lately and AMC theaters have one answer.  America’s largest movie chain announced that the prices of a ticket will now be based on seat location, meaning seats in the front will be cheaper while more desirable seats in the middle will now cost more. The ticket pricing initiative, called Sightline at AMC, will roll out at all of its roughly 1,000 movie theaters by the end of the year.  AMC said a seating map will show the adjusted prices and Sightline will only be used on showings after 4 pm.  Members of the AMC subscription service, Stubs A List, will be able to get preferred seating at no extra charge.

An employee from Dave & Buster’s at Marketplace Mall is recovering after allegedly being attacked by a group of juveniles Friday night.  Deputies said a group of approximately 20 juveniles had been causing issues throughout the night.  Employees said they asked the group to leave, but the juveniles refused and began arguing with the staff.  Deputies said one employee was attacked by the group and sustained minor injuries.  No arrests were made. Police did not provide descriptions of the juveniles. Anyone with information is asked to call 911.

The City of Batavia Water Department is planning to repair a service line on Maple Street today. There is a possibility the water may need to be shut off on Maple, from Evans to Thorpe Streets, and traffic will be closed down in this area. The length of time required for this service is unknown. When the water is restored, it’s possible it may be discolored. Please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.

The Genesee Society of Model Engineers announces that their Spring 2023 edition of the Great Batavia Train Show will be held at the Richard C. Call Arena at Genesee Community College on Sunday, March 26th.  Admission is 6 dollars for adults, 3 for teens 13 to 18 and free for under 13 year olds.  It will be from 9:30 to 3:30.  Items offered include all scales of model trains, historic railroad items, books, DVDs and toys. Free parking.

Alexanderite Jadyn Mullen placed first on Saturday in the Pentathlon at the Ocean Breeze Invitational in Staten Island.  She won with 3,352 points.  The Pentathlon consists of five events: 55-meter hurdles, high jump, shot put, long jump, and 800-meter race. In the hurdles, she ran a 9.06, in the high jump, she jumped 1.55 meters, in the shot put, she threw 9.93 meters, in the long jump, she jumped 4.99 meters and finished it off with a 2:20 in the 800.

Many people think Buffalo is all bad weather and chicken wings but one filmmaker is determined to change that with a new movie.  “Unbillievable” is the passion project of a lifelong Bills fan about the Queen city and its football culture.  The Screenwriter, Scott Rubin, says that this movie is a celebration of Buffalo.  Rubin has been a Bills fan since he was five. Rubin’s love for the Bills has never faded and with this film, he said, he wants to highlight the generational and overall love for not just the Bills but for Buffalo as a whole.  The film is in funding at the moment, to help out, follow the link at wbtai.com.

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/unbillievable-the-movie#/

The SPCA in Allegany County is dealing with a piggly wiggly problem.  They are caring for 45 pot bellied pigs in Belmont and are looking for anyone who can adopt some or donate towards their care.  If you are interested in adopting a pig you can send an email to the link at wbtai.com 

SPCAallegany@gmail.com 

or call 585-593-2200 ext 2 for more info.

Brandon Fuller

28-year-old Brandon Fuller of Medina has been arrested and charged with 16 vehicle and traffic violations, along with unlawful fleeing an officer, criminal possession of stolen property and criminal mischief. This followed a high-speed chase that started in Orleans County and ended at the Brockport Wegmans. Fuller was arraigned and bail was set at $10,000. Additionally, he is currently on probation for criminal contempt and was also arraigned for violating conditions; bail was set at $100,000 on that charge. A passenger with Fuller was also taken into custody but released pending further investigation. Additional charges are expected. In September of 2022, Fuller was arrested in Monroe County for an incident related to the theft of catalytic converters. Also in September 2022, Fuller was arrested in Orleans County after being apprehended during the burglary of a barn. The charges from September 2022 are still pending in court in both counties.

The investigation continues today into a theft from Walmart. Late in the evening on Saturday, a man smashed a glass display and stole several Nintendo Switch video game consoles. He told employees he had a gun but did not display a weapon. The store was evacuated and the robber fled in a vehicle. Shortly after midnight, police determined it was safe for customers and employees to once again enter the store. No description of the man or vehicle is available at this time. Anyone with information that could assist police in this investigation is asked to call 585-343-5000.

An earthquake this morning was felt throughout Western New York. It started around 6:15am and lasted a few seconds; the U.S. Geological Survey reports it was a 3.8 magnitude quake. The epicenter was 1.3 miles east-northeast of West Seneca and occurred at a depth of 1.9 miles. According to the Earthquake Magnitude Scale, a tremor between 2.5 to 5.4 magnitude can often be felt, but only causes minor, if any damage. The earthquake was felt as far away as Rochester, including Alexander, Batavia, Attica, and St. Catharines, Ontario.

It’s not too late to donate

Genesee Sno-Packers in Oakfield held their Annual Bikini Rally on Saturday. They raised $17,859 for the Pink Fund. The fundraiser helps patients undergoing breast cancer treatment to pay household bills. The Pink Fund is a non-profit organization that pays 90 days of medical expenses for those in active breast cancer treatment. Although it was very cold on Saturday, more than a dozen women participated. Pledging to the Pink Fund will remain open for another few weeks: (https://www.facebook.com/bikinirally) Photo credit: James Elmore. Pictured from left to right, Samantha Hilchey, Dawn Clark, Jen Ryan and Jane Chaddock.

The City of Batavia Water Department is planning to repair a service line on Maple Street tomorrow. There is a possibility the water may need to be shut off on Maple, from Evans to Thorpe Streets, and traffic will be closed down in this area. The length of time required for this service is unknown. When the water is restored, it’s possible it may be discolored. Please refrain from doing any laundry until the water runs clear.

Rush-Henrietta Senior High School (file photo)

An employee in the Rush-Henrietta Central School District is in some legal trouble after being arrested for child endangerment. Officials say Jimmy Buntley, who has worked on and off for the district since 2018, allegedly sent inappropriate messages to a student online. Buntley was arrested last month and is facing a misdemeanor charge. The district says he hasn’t been back to work since his arrest and that termination proceedings against him have already started.

The New York State Department of Health is encouraging African American and Hispanic men to get tested for pre-diabetes. Pre-diabetes is a condition where an individual’s blood sugar level is higher than normal, but it’s not high enough to be diagnosed with diabetes. According to officials, pre-diabetes is more common in African American and Hispanic men as a result of the effects of racism and poverty on health and healthcare. Anyone who wants to get tested can reach out to his or her doctor.

There may be only a few weeks of winter left, but National Grid reminds customers they can still sign up for home heating assistance. The primary program that income-eligible individuals use is the Home Energy Assistance Program, which provides financial help for home heating costs and also funds that can be used in case of a heat-related emergency. Both regular and emergency HEAP will be available through March 15th. For more information, go to mybenefits.ny.gov.

There has been a slight drop in gas prices. According to Triple A, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $3.47. The state average is currently $3.56. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.43 a gallon, which is down 1 cent from a week ago and 9 cents from this time last month..

The top Powerball prize has risen once again and is now the 5th-largest jackpot in the history of the game. The jackpot for tonight’s drawing will be at least $747,000,000 (million) since there was no big winner on Saturday. There have been more than 30 drawings since the jackpot was won back on November 19th. This evening’s drawing will be streamed at powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

Police are searching for a man who stole from Walmart and threatened employees.  At 10:30 Saturday night at Walmart on Veterans Memorial Drive a man smashed a glass display case to steal several Nintendo Switch video game consoles.  He then told employees he had a gun although he didn’t display the weapon.  The store was evacuated and the robber fled in a vehicle.  Anyone with information that may assist in the investigation is asked to call (585) 343-5000.

Governor Kathy Hochul is proposing changes to New York’s new concealed carry law that would allow for armed security guards outside houses of worship and exempt retired police officers from the law.  According to the NYPD, antisemitic hate crimes more than doubled in November 2022 from November 2021, a 125% spike.  Alan Mindel, Chairman of the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center of Nassau County says they have had to spend thousands on upgrading their security.  In Hochuls new proposal, places of worship would be specifically allowed to hire armed security and allow them inside the buildings, something that wasn’t explicitly allowed before.

The Genesee County Economic Development Center has approved the financial agreements for Edwards Vacuum, part of the Atlas Copco group to build its 209 million dollar semiconductor dry pump manufacturing facility at the STAMP complex in Alabama.  Edwards Vacuum’s “factory of the future” will serve the semiconductor industry and advanced manufacturing sectors and create approximately 343 new high-paying jobs. The facility is projected to generate more than $13.4 million in future revenues to the Town of Alabama, Genesee County, Oakfield-Alabama School District, and the Alabama Fire Department over 20 years.

Friday night’s 12th annual Shooting for a Cure at Pembroke High School raised over $25,000 for Roswell Park and cancer research.  Since the event’s inception back in 2011 the total amount raised has surpassed $250,000.  The game had raffles, vendors and t-shirts for sale.  Donations can still be made through the girls basketball team website.  The Pembroke girl’s basketball program will present Roswell Park with a check from this year’s fundraiser at a later date, to be determined.

The Hope Center of LeRoy, located at 42 Main St., will be starting up another GriefShare Support Group. It will take place every Thursday afternoon from 1 to 3 p.m. beginning on March 2, and running through May 25. The group is designed to offer help and encouragement after the death of a spouse, child, family member, or friend. The three key parts of the program are the use of a personal workbook, a video seminar, and group discussion. The cost is $20.

The man accused of fatally stabbing his parents and sister at a home in Henrietta last month has been indicted on three counts of murder.  Rajab Banahi, 39, allegedly stabbed his parents, Ali and Mastoora, and sister, Masuda, Jan. 11 inside his parents’ home on Kathy Drive.  Banahi’s parents died at the scene. His sister died Jan. 28 at Strong Memorial Hospital from her injuries.  Friday’s indictment showed Banahi charged with three counts of first-degree murder and one count of aggravated criminal contempt.

Rochester Police are investigating two more incidents involving vehicles crashing into businesses, apparently in order for the suspects to carry out burglaries.  Officers responded to Petit Poutinerie on Elton Street around 5 a.m. Friday for a reported alarm activation. They said it appeared a vehicle drove into the building and items were stolen from inside.  Shortly after that call, officers responded to Heroes Brewing on Atlantic Avenue for a report of a crash. Police said a vehicle drove into the front doors and caused damage, but an employee scared off the would-be burglars.  Friday’s incidents happened three days after similar break-ins at Comedy @ the Carlson and Record Archive. Police said there have been 15 cases like this across Monroe County.

The New York State Thruway Authority Board of Directors voted in December to move forward with a proposed multi-year schedule of toll increases set to begin in 2024.  New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli has released a report and said toll increases should be the last option for the Thruway Authority. According to DiNapoli, the report identifies concerns with the proposal and urges the Thruway Authority to improve operations and maximize non-toll revenues first.  The Thruway Authority released a statement responding to the Comptroller.  They said they need to increase tolls as hundreds of bridges will need to be replaced in the next decade, they receive no federal funding and that the tolls are 90 percent of the money they receive for maintaining the highway system.

GO Health has announced the date and time for the next free rabies clinic which will be on February 9th from 4 to 6:30pm and will be at the Batavia Town Highway Garage.  Vaccinations are free for dogs, cats, and ferrets, 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. Limit 4 pets per car maximum.

Semi Pro football may be coming to Batavia.  Harry Rascoe, head coach of the Genesee County Spartans, announced that an eight-team schedule has been finalized for the squad, which will feature around 50 players – some of them former Batavia and Notre Dame high school athletes – from throughout Western New York.  Rascoe said he is working with Batavia High School officials to have the Genesee County team’s home games at Van Detta Stadium. All home games will be on Saturdays at 7 p.m.  Rascoe said he will be coordinating a final tryout for roster spots on Feb. 26 at a practice location in Rochester.  For more information about the team, including how to become a sponsor, go to the team’s Genesee County Spartans Facebook page or contact Rascoe at the email address listed on wbtai.com.

rascoeh@yahoo.com.

The Mammoth sale that now lasts from February through Thanksgiving is opening its doors.  It runs Saturdays and Sundays 11 to 4 with different items featured every weekend at the St Joseph’s School on the corner of Summit and East Main in Batavia.  All proceeds go to benefit the school. 

Unidentified man bundled up for cold weather – file photo

A wind chill advisory is in effect for most of Western NY including the entire GLOW region until 10:00am tomorrow morning. Winds could drive the feels-like temperature to 20 below zero, creating increased danger to anyone spending extended periods of time outdoors. If you must be out, be sure to cover all exposed skin. Frostbite can occur in 30 minutes or less with wind chills of 15 below zero or colder. Updated forecasts are always available here from 13WHAM meteorologists and on the National Weather Service website at weather.gov.

National Grid tells us their crews are prepared to respond to any emergencies caused by the cold and is offering customers some tips to stay safe. The utility company suggests that folks keep working flashlights and a supply of batteries in their homes in case of a power outage. People who see downed power lines should assume they are live and report the location of those downed lines to National Grid or local law enforcement immediately. Anyone who experiences an outage can call 1-800-867-5222.

A teenager has been sentenced to five years jail for his involvement in five armed robberies that targeted casino patrons and food-delivery drivers. Prosecutors say the 17-year-old committed the crimes between March and August last year. Once the teen is no longer behind bars, he will be under post-release supervision for five years. Orders of protection have been issued for the victims he robbed.

Governor Hochul acknowledges that “conflicting language” in her proposed budget specifically in reference to bail reform laws has led to confusion for judges. In her 2024 proposal, Hochul discussed the need to restore judicial discretion by removing the least restrictive means standard. In the bail reform movement, judges were instructed to release accused criminals on their own recognizance except under very specific circumstances. This lead to police and judges expressing frustrations as criminals returned to the streets within hours of being arrested, many of them committing new crimes as soon as they were released. In Rochester, police said that they couldn’t stop car thieves from stealing cars multiple times in a row because they would be back out on the streets stealing again as soon as they were caught.

Monroe County will be hosting open interviews today in hopes of finding more people who want to become Child Protective Services caseworkers. The interviews will be conducted at the Gates Public Library, which is located on Elmgrove Road. In order to qualify, a person does not need to have passed a civil service exam, but they must take that test in the future. However, candidates do need to have a bachelor’s degree, valid driver’s license and reliable access to transportation.

Unidentified nursing home workers, Dunkirk NY – February 2, 2023

Over 200 healthcare workers at nursing home facilities in Dunkirk, Eden and Salamanca are demanding contract negotiations and better pay. Their contract ended on December 31st. The nursing home facilities are owned by Personal Healthcare, a company in Tarrytown New York, and the staff say they have been faced with dire situations. Nurses report working 16 hour shifts and having to use sheets and pillowcases to clean residents because there is no service staff taking care of the laundry. Rural healthcare facilities have been faced with low wages and conditions that they say make it hard to do their jobs well.

Tage Thompson – January 2023

Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres will be spending some time in the Sunshine State this weekend to play in the NHL All-Star Game. Dahlin has been chosen to replace teammate Tage Thompson after Thompson sustained an upper body injury in Buffalo’s 5-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes Wednesday night. Dahlin has already scored 14 goals this season and tallied 41 assists. The All-Star Game is tomorrow afternoon at FLA Live Arena, which is the home of the Florida Panthers.

Unidentified woman donating blood- file photo

The American Red Cross is now offering new incentives in hopes of getting more people to roll up their sleeves and donate blood. The Red Cross says anyone who donates in the next few weeks will get a $10 Amazon.com gift card in their email. They’ll also be entered to win a trip for two to Florida including round-trip airfare, a three-night hotel stay and a $750 gift card for expenses. To schedule an appointment to donate, go to redcrossblood.org. The next two local blood drives will be on Monday, February 6th at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel from 1-6pm and Friday, February 17th at the Batavia VA Medical Center from 10am to 3:00pm.

Please play responsibly.

The Powerball jackpot keeps on growing and has now reached 700-million-dollars ahead of tomorrow night’s drawing. No one was able to correctly pick all six winning numbers for Wednesday’s drawing and that means the jackpot is now the sixth-largest in the history of the popular lottery game. The cost to buy a ticket is just two dollars. And as always, the drawing will be streamed online at powerball.com.

Doctors who specialize in treating obese patients say popular but expensive weight loss drugs aren’t available to people whose health might benefit the most from significantly reducing their weight. Obesity specialists say Black adults, as well as uninsured or lower-income women, and other groups with high rates of obesity are least likely to get the costly medications known by the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy. The drugs are in short supply at pharmacies nationwide.

There is a Wind Chill Advisory in effect for most of Western NY from 4am Friday to 10 AM Saturday.  Winds could drive the temperature down to 20 below zero.  This affects Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties in the GLOW region.  This is a potentially dangerous situation to be outdoors. If you must be outside, be sure to cover all exposed skin. Frostbite can occur in 30 minutes or less with apparent temperatures of 15 below zero or colder.

A Buffalo teenager has been sentenced to five years jail for his involvement in five armed robberies that targeted casino patrons and food-delivery drivers. Prosecutors say the 17-year-old committed the crimes between March and August last year. Once the teen is no longer behind bars, he will be under post-release supervision for five years. Orders of protection have been issued for the victims he robbed.

In the rollout of her proposed fiscal year 2024 Executive Budget, Governor Hochul said “conflicting language” in bail reform laws has led to confusion for judges.  In her budget proposal Wednesday, Hochul discussed the need to restore judicial discretion by removing the least restrictive means standard.  In the bail reform movement judges were instructed to release accused criminals on their own recognizance except on very specific circumstances.  This lead to police and judges expressing frustrations as criminals returned to the streets within hours of being arrested, many of whom committed new crimes as soon as they were released.  In Rochester, police said that they couldn’t stop car thieves from stealing cars multiple times in a row because they would be back out on the streets stealing again as soon as they were caught.

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney announced the introduction of the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act on National Girls and Women In Sports Day.  According to the press release, this legislation guarantees women and girls a fair playing field in competitive sports by ensuring that school athletics comply with the Title IX recognition of a person’s reproductive biology and genetics at birth. This commonsense bill ensures that biological females are not forced to compete against men in women’s competitive sports funded through Title IX.  The bill is co sponsored by 15 other Republican Congresspersons.

Over 200 healthcare workers at nursing home facilities in Dunkirk, Eden, Salamanca, and Houghton are demanding contract negotiations and better pay, after their contract ended on Dec. 31.  The nursing home facilities are owned by Personal Healthcare, a company in Tarrytown New York, and the staff say they have been faced with dire situations.  Nurses say they are working 16 hour shifts and having to use sheets and pillowcases to clean residents because there is no staff working the laundry.  Rural healthcare facilities have been faced with low wages and conditions that they say make it hard to do their jobs well.

Volunteers For Animals members are asking folks to take a “paws” next Sunday and attend the Batavia Super Sunday Craft and Gift Market coming soon to Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel.  The event, featuring craft and gift vendors, plus door prizes and free admission, is set for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 12.  All proceeds are to go towards Genesee County Animal Shelter on West Main Street Road in Batavia, and the nonprofit VFA of Genesee County. The first vendor fair was postponed due to COVID — in 2021, and was put on last year.

Rasmus Dahlin of the Buffalo Sabres will be spending some time in the Sunshine State this weekend to play in the NHL All-Star Game. Dahlin has been chosen to replace teammate Tage Thompson in the contest after Thompson was injured in Buffalo’s five-to-one loss to the Carolina Hurricanes Wednesday night. Dahlin has already scored 14 goals this season and tallied 41 assists. The All-Star Game is tomorrow at FLA Live Arena which is the home of the Florida Panthers.

The American Red Cross is now offering new incentives in hopes of getting more people to roll up their sleeves and donate blood. The Red Cross says anyone who donates in the next few weeks will get a 10-dollar Amazon.com gift card in their email. They’ll also be entered to win a trip for two to Florida including round-trip airfare, a three-night hotel stay and a 750-dollar gift card for expenses. To schedule an appointment to donate, go to redcrossblood.org.

Ronald Rowcliffe

58-year-old Ronald Rowcliffe of Batavia has been sentenced to four months in jail for violating terms of his probation. He most recently had been convicted of molesting boy scouts but has a long history of inappropriate behavior with children. Presently, the probation violation involved his having social media accounts, changing his address and being in contact with a girl under the age of 17. Rowcliffe is considered a Level 2, sexually violent offender on the state registry.

According to the National Weather Service, an arctic cold front will pass through our region this evening. When it does, a 30-minute burst of moderate to heavy snow along with winds gusting at times to 40mph are predicted. This will create near white-out conditions between 8 and 9 pm. Also, a wind chill advisory begins at 4:00am tomorrow morning and will be in effect through 10:00am Saturday.

42-year-old Daniel Bakowski of Batavia has been charged with assault, harassment, endangering the welfare of a child, criminal obstruction of breathing and preventing a request for emergency assistance. He is accused of assaulting another person while children were present. Bakowski was turned over to the Genesee County Jail to await arraignment. ALSO:  27-year-old Keilah Hart of Rochester has been charged with introducing prison contraband and criminal possession of a controlled substance. Hart allegedly had the controlled substance at the Genesee County Jail while being processed for a separate warrant. She was released on an appearance ticket.

57-year-old Margaret Miles of Batavia is charged with petit larceny, resisting arrest and obstruction of governmental administration. This followed an incident on West Main Street Road last weekend. Miles will appear in Batavia Town Court on February 23rd.

The 9th Annual Bikini Rally for the Pink Fund is scheduled for Saturday morning in Oakfield. The fundraiser helps patients undergoing breast cancer treatment to pay household bills. The Pink Fund is a non-profit organization that pays 90 days of medical expenses for those in active breast cancer treatment. Participants will ride six laps in their bathing suits as well as a small lap with a breast cancer survivor; the option is also there to do a lap in honor of someone that lost the battle. They hope to raise $15,000 this year. The Bikini Rally is at the Genesee Sno Packers, located at 102 South Park Street, Oakfield. Registration is from 10 until 11; gates open at 11:00 and the rally starts at noon. The Genesee Sno Riders will have 2023 calendars available for purchase, as well as event shirts, a basket raffle, 50/50 giveaway and food and drinks. (Photo provided by Jane Chaddock)

Governor Hochul has laid out a $227,000,000,000 (billion) spending plan for fiscal year 2024, the total of which is $5 billion more than for 2023. Highlights of the budget proposal she revealed yesterday include money to reduce and prevent gun violence, transform mental health care in the state, and build hundreds of thousands of affordable homes. The governor also proposed a review of bail laws and raising the minimum wage based on inflation. She’s calling this budget a thoughtful plan that furthers New Yorkers’ priorities but also ensures fiscal responsibility.

Ronald Ensminger, Jr.

The woman who drove a vehicle through a police blockade and seriously injured a state Trooper has pleaded guilty. The Erie County District Attorney’s Office says 33-year-old Deyanna Davis went through the blockade while a protest was happening on Bailey Avenue in Buffalo back in June 2020. Trooper Ronald Ensminger Junior was hit by the vehicle and needed treatment for a shattered pelvis and broken leg. Davis is facing up to seven years in prison when she’s sentenced in May.

The Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is issuing a warning to New Yorkers about credit and debit card skimming scams. The agency says thieves place devices on things like ATM’s and gas station pumps to steal a person’s card information. That data is then used to withdraw funds and make illicit purchases. To protect your information from being stolen, inspect card-reading machines closely, and if the buttons on the keypad look or feel different, don’t use them. It is estimated skimming costs consumers and financial institutions over one-billion-dollars a year.

Negative Covid-19 test result

A brand-new report from the state shows that the spread of the coronavirus is on the decline in our region. Right now, the 7 day average infection rate is at 6.24%. At this time last week, the infection rate was at 6.39%. In Erie County however, the total number of new cases increased slightly. County Health Departments are asking people to do their part to prevent another spike in cases by washing their hands, wearing a mask indoors and making sure they’re vaccinated against COVID-19.

Alex Tuch (file photo)

The Buffalo Sabres are now on a two-game losing streak after suffering a blowout loss on home ice. Alex Tuch had the lone goal for the Sabres as his team fell to the Carolina Hurricanes by a final score of 5-1 at KeyBank Center last night. Buffalo goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen struggled in net and surrendered four goals. The Sabres have more than a week off before their next game on Saturday, February 11th against the Calgary Flames at home, with face off at 12:30.

Please play responsibly.

The Powerball jackpot is up to an estimated $700,000,000 (million) after no one matched all six numbers Wednesday night. The lump sum cash payout would be more than $375,000,000 (million). The next drawing is Saturday night at 11:00. Please play responsibly.

Governor Hochul unveiled her State Budget for 2024 on Wednesday.  The budget adds 5 billion dollars over 2023 at 227 Billion dollars.  The governor presented a theme of addressing public safety, housing and rising costs for New Yorkers. Health care and education also took priority for the governor, hoping to tackle shortages.  Hochul proposed funding to reduce gun violence, address criminal justice shortcomings and stop violent crime. Her administration wants to reduce gun violence through a $337 million plan.  Within fighting crime, the governor also wants to invest in crime analysis centers, interstate gun trafficking and youth programs. That community investment will also address resources for people who have committed a crime.  The proposal kicks off weeks of intense negotiations with state legislative leaders as they try to agree on a finalized budget by the April 1 deadline.

The 227 billion dollar State budget Governor Hochul Unveiled on Wednesday outlines plans to address what Hochul called “inconsistency” in the state’s bail reform laws.  The governor said “conflicting language” in the law has led to confusion and a lack of accountability for judges when making bail determinations.  The budget would restore judicial discretion by removing the least restrictive means standard, which requires judges to release people charged with most misdemeanors and non-violent felonies under the least-restrictive conditions necessary to ensure their return to court.  Livingston County Sheriff Tom Dougherty said the announcement was “music to his ears,” but said he’s cautiously optimistic.  Hochul’s budget also includes $40 million of additional funding to hire hundreds of new prosecutors across the state. The Governor said it will support District Attorneys in developing crime strategy plans and reducing case backlogs that developed from the pandemic.

The State University of New York college system has begun requiring incoming students to pass a “Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice” course before they can graduate.  The planned requirement took effect for new first-time students seeking a bachelor’s degree and certain associates degrees this semester. The remaining degrees will see the course become a requirement next year.  Courses must “analyze the role that complex networks of social structures and systems play in the creation and perpetuation of the dynamics of power, privilege, oppression and opportunity” to meet the appropriate DEISJ criteria for approval.  Courses like these have been heavily criticized as divisive and based on marxist ideas that have little real world evidence.

Richmond Memorial Library has a couple of new offerings for people who come into the library that have nothing to do with books.  Free mobile wifi hotspots can be checked out thanks to an Emergency Connectivity Fund Grant.  The hotspots can be checked out for 3 weeks at a time if you have a library card.  Also, free tax help is available this tax season.  Volunteers from the New York Department of Tax and Finance will walk you through your income tax returns, step-by-step, as you complete and e-file your tax return for free for people who make less than 73 thousand dollars.  Sessions will be offered on Thursdays –February 2, February 9, February 16, February 23, March 2, March 9, March 23, March 30, April 6 and April 13.  Those interested must schedule an appointment.

The Buffalo Sabres were blown out by the Carolina Hurricanes in Wednesday night’s matchup 5 to 1.  Alex Tuch scored the lone goal for Buffalo for his 24th in the season.  Ukko Pekka Luukkonen had to contend with 38 shots on goal vs the Hurricane’s 31.  After the All-Star break, the Sabres host the Calgary Flames on Saturday, Feb. 11, before heading across the country on a three-game road trip.

A bitter cold blast of Arctic air will be moving into WNY soon. The air will arrive behind a cold front that is moving southeast through Canada right now.  This will likely be the coldest air in a year for Western NY.  The last time that the air temperature dropped below zero was February 3rd, 2022 when the temperature dipped to -3. The temperature during the day Friday will stay between o and 5 degrees for many areas with wind chill putting it below -20.

Richard Schiersing

47-year-old Richard Schiersing of Scottsville has been arrested in LeRoy and charged with criminal trespass. Police responded to a call on East Main Road in LeRoy earlier this week and discovered Schiersing hiding under a trailer on the caller’s property. He was released on an appearance ticket and will return to Town of LeRoy Court at a later date.

Ronald Rowcliffe

58-year-old Ronald Rowcliffe of Batavia has been sentenced to four months in jail for violating terms of his probation. He had previously been convicted of molesting boy scouts and has a long history of inappropriate behavior with children. Presently, the probation violation involved his having social media accounts, changing his address and being in contact with a girl under the age of 17. Rowcliffe is considered a Level 2, sexually violent offender on the state registry.

Brian MacDonald

Albion Police tell us that 33-year-old Brian MacDonald is missing. He was last in contact with his family on January 20th. MacDonald has brown hair, hazel eyes, is six feet tall and weighs 155 pounds. His family is concerned he may be a danger to himself. Anyone with information should contact Albion Police immediately at 585-589-5627.

Seth Greenauer

20-year-old Seth Greenauer of North Collins, New York now faces felony charges. He allegedly smashed all the windows in a house on McGrath Road in Attica and then dumped garbage all over the property. Wyoming County Sheriffs say Greenauer is charged with criminal mischief and grand larceny for also stealing numerous items from the house. He was arraigned and released to appear at a later date in Town Court.

Governor Kathy Hochul has vetoed the Grieving Families Act bill, which was intended to permit the families of wrongful death victims to recover compensation for their emotional distress instead of limiting to just the monetary value of the individual’s work. The bill had been passed with bipartisan support in both chambers of the state Legislature; however, because it was passed last year, the current Legislature cannot vote to overturn the Governor’s veto. One option lawmakers have is to pass the bill again in attempt to force the Governor’s hand. Hochul said she was concerned that the bill went through too quickly and it hadn’t been evaluated for economic impact.

Erie County officials say the emergency alert system is going to be used the next time that a weather disaster is moving towards the area. County Executive Mark Poloncarz says it’s now clear that in the future, further proactive steps need to be taken to protect the public. Erie County has been a part of the emergency alert system for years but officials believed they’d done enough to tell residents about the threat the storm posed without activating it. The December blizzard resulted in nearly 50 deaths.

Cat and dog (file photo)

The Niagara County SPCA is asking for help with caring for the large number of dogs that are currently at the facility. Space is so limited right now that dogs are having to stay in surgery recovery kennels and staff offices. In January alone, the SPCA took in over 70 dogs compared to 43 during the same month in 2022. Folks who are interested in adopting a canine or serving as a foster can contact the shelter at 716-731-4368.

The 9th Annual Bikini Rally for the Pink Fund is scheduled for Saturday morning in Oakfield. The fundraiser helps patients undergoing breast cancer treatment to pay household bills. The Pink Fund is a non-profit organization that pays 90 days of medical expenses for those in active breast cancer treatment. Participants will ride six laps in their bathing suits as well as a small lap with a breast cancer survivor; the option is also there to do a lap in honor of someone that lost the battle. They hope to raise $15,000 this year. The Bikini Rally is at the Genesee Sno Packers, located at 102 South Park Street, Oakfield. Registration is from 10 until 11; gates open at 11:00 and the rally starts at noon. The Genesee Sno Riders will have 2023 calendars available for purchase, as well as event shirts, a basket raffle, 50/50 giveaway and food and drinks. Photos taken and provided by Jane Chaddock.

Please play responsibly.

The 8th largest jackpot in Powerball history is up for grabs tonight. Because no one won on Monday, the top prize for this evening’s drawing will be at least $653,000,000 (million). The last time the jackpot was won was back in November. Tonight’s drawing will be streamed online at powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

Cozens, Dahlin and a very excited young fan celebrate a moment (file photo)

After having a few days off, the Buffalo Sabres will be back on home ice tonight as they try and get back on the winning track. The Sabres are set to host the Carolina Hurricanes at KeyBank Center. Buffalo has not played since Saturday when they lost in a shootout to the Minnesota Wild 3-2. Face-off for tonight’s game is set for 7:30.

Today marks the start of Black History Month, and Tops Friendly Markets is celebrating the occasion by holding an essay contest. The supermarket chain is asking kids in grades three through eight to write about an African-American hero who inspires them on a daily basis. The winner will receive a 50-dollar Tops gift card and their school will get 100-dollars. The deadline to submit an essay is February 17th and more information can be found at topsmarkets.com/blackhistorymonth.

A third person has died from the stabbing at the home in Henrietta on January 11th.  43 year old Masuda Banahi was the third victim when Rajab Banahi allegedly broke into the home and stabbed his parents to death with their kitchen knives.  Masuda was in critical condition since the stabbing and succumbed to her injuries on Tuesday.  Rajab Banahi is charged with two counts first-degree murder and one count of attempted second-degree murder.  He’s being held in Monroe County Jail without bail.

Gov. Kathy Hochul has vetoed the Grieving Families Act bill, just before the deadline.  The bill, which would permit the families of wrongful death victims to recover compensation for their emotional anguish instead of just the monetary value of the person’s work, was passed with bipartisan support in both chambers of the state Legislature.  The Reform Lawsuit Alliance of New York Executive Director Thomas Stebbins released a statement Friday encouraging the governor’s veto, saying families, governments and the health care system are already strained and can’t afford another cost hike.  Hochul said she was concerned that the bill went through too quickly and it hadn’t been evaluated for economic impact.

The Batavia Muckdogs have released their schedule for the 2023 season.  The 2023 Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League schedule has been released with the Muckdogs on the road in Elmira on June 2nd and opening day at Dwyer Stadium the following night, Saturday, June 3rd, with postgame fireworks.  For the 2023 season, home game times will start at 6:35 PM, except for Sunday home games starting at 4:05 PM.  The Muckdogs came just 1 game short of winning the PGCBL Championship and will look to defend its West Division Title in 2023. Batavia will also host interleague play this year, including games against the NYCBL and others.

As the song goes, I can’t drive 55.  Well a bill introduced in the State Senate would see the speed limit in certain areas raised to 70.  The bill states: “the majority of States across our Country have State speed limits that exceed 65 MPH. New York has failed to keep up with the rest of the County by not adopting a more efficient speed limit. This bill would correct this inefficacy by allowing for a 70 MPH speed limit where appropriate.”  According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety , 22 states have maximum speed limits of 70 mph and 11 states have maximum speed limits of 75 mph on some portion of their roadway systems.  Studies by the IIHS also found that increasing the speed limits lead to an increase in traffic fatalities.  

In a Tuesday evening tweet, Damar Hamlin announced a new “#3forHeart CPR challenge,” in a collaboration with the American Heart Association that helps bring awareness to the importance of CPR training.  The challenge consists of three steps: Learn CPR. Give by Donating to the American Heart Association to fund CPR education and training, and other lifesaving programs and scientific research. And share the challenge with three friends by tagging them with the #3forHeart hashtag on Twitter, Facebook, and Linkedin.  The Bills player collapsed on the field during a game against the Bengals and was resuscitated by CPR administered for nearly 10 minutes on the field.

Jason Clark

According to the District Attorney’s Office, a former Batavia parochial educator and administrator has been charged with two counts of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree. He was put on leave at the time of the investigation and has since been fired. Jason Clark had been at St. Paul Lutheran as a teacher since 2002 and became principal in 2019. He was arraigned in County Court yesterday. Clark pleaded not guilty to the charges of engaging in two or more acts of sexual conduct spanning three years with a child less than 11 years old. The alleged abuse happened in the school. One count allegedly occurred on or about and after Labor Day 2014 to mid-June 2015 in the City of Batavia over a period of time and less than three months in duration, the DA’s Office said. The second count allegedly occurred on or about and after Labor Day 2015 to mid-June 2016 in the City of Batavia over a period of time not less than three months in duration. He was released on his own recognizance and is to appear at 10:30 a.m. on March 27. Anyone who may know of any other possible victims is asked to contact police at 345-6350.

Roger Bartz

A Wyoming County man has pleaded guilty to first-degree sexual conduct against a child. The Wyoming County District Attorney’s Office announced yesterday that 73-year-old Roger Bartz of Sheldon admitted to committing two or more acts of sexual conduct involving a child who was six years old when the abuse began. According to the district attorney’s office, as part of the plea agreement, Bartz will be sentenced on April 20 to a 10-year sentence followed by 10 years of post-release supervision and if he is released he will be subject to the sex offender registration act. Had he not accepted the plea deal, Bartz could have faced 25 years in prison.

Nasir Nathan

27-year-old Nasir Nathan of Walnut Street Batavia has been arrested and charged with 1st degree gang assault. It is alleged that he participated in the assault in October 2019 on Highland Park in Batavia. Nathan was arraigned in Batavia City Court and held on bail; he is scheduled to return to court on 2/14/23 at 1:00pm.

Robert Griffin

44-year-old Robert Griffin of State Street Batavia is charged with Criminal Contempt, Aggravated Family Offense (more than one offense within five years) and violating a stay-away order of protection. Earlier this month Griffin was arrested following an investigation into a domestic incident. Griffin was turned over to the Genesee County Jail to await Centralized Arraignment Part Court.

Jessica Saeli

33-year-old Jessica Saeli of Morse Place Batavia is charged with Criminal Contempt, Assault, and Unlawful Imprisonment. The charges stem from a domestic incident on September 16th where Saeli was arrested, arraigned and released under the supervision of Genesee Justice until her return. Saeli was turned over on the bench warrant to the Genesee County Jail to await Centralized Arraignment Part Court.

Bradley Jordan

30-year-old Bradley Jordan of Liberty Street, Batavia is charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Criminal Mischief, and Aggravated Family Offense, following an investigation into a domestic incident. Jordan was arraigned in Centralized Arraignment Part Court and held without bail until his next appearance.

OTHER BATAVIA POLICE BLOTTER ENTRIES: 31-year-old Joseph Jeffords of Chestnut Street Batavia is charged with Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. Last week, he was arrested and it’s alleged that Jeffords borrowed a friend’s vehicle to go to Rochester late last month and did not return it. Jeffords was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to be in Batavia City Court on February 7th. ALSO:  45-year-old Anthony Vanelli of Federal Drive Batavia has been charged after not appearing in court on a Petit Larceny arrest. Vanelli was originally arrested and given an appearance ticket for Petit Larceny on 5/2/22 after allegedly stealing a Kit Kat candy bar and a can of Nitro Pepsi from a local business. Vanelli was arraigned on the warrant and remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $1 bail pending his next court appearance on 2/1/23.  ALSO:  64-year-old Robert Shuttleworth of Gaslight Lane, Batavia has been arrested and charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle with a suspended registration, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 2nd, Operate a Motor Vehicle Without Insurance, and Operation of a Motor Vehicle by an Unlicensed Driver. Shuttleworth is to reappear in Batavia City Court on 2/14/23 at 2:00pm.  ALSO:  58-year-old Michael Ostrander of East Main Street Batavia is charged with Criminal Contempt in the Second degree. Last July, Ostrander was arrested after a domestic incident investigation and released on an appearance ticket. However, he failed to appear and a bench warrant was issued by Batavia City Court. Ostrander was released under supervision and returned to court yesterday.

The extra money that people received in SNAP benefits is coming to an end. At the beginning of the pandemic, recipients were receiving emergency allotments of $95 or more in monthly benefits. Congress temporarily increased these benefits because of Covid-19, but after February’s payment, that emergency allotment will stop. The amount was based on the number of people in the family so some families could see a dramatic drop in how much they receive each month.

SUNY Empire State College

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is teaming up with SUNY Empire State College to provide college credits to eligible DMV employees. In order to qualify, new or current workers must have finished all three components of the DMV’s New Employee Training Program in addition to a customer service component. Anyone who has done so can get six credits from SUNY Empire State. Those credits can then be used towards any undergraduate program at the school.

Wheel lock

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Department is doing its part to try and prevent residents from having their vehicles stolen. The agency is handing out wheel locks at its substations around the area. In recent months, hundreds of cars have been stolen and many of them have been Hyundai’s and Kia’s. There’s no cost to get a wheel lock and information on how to contact the substation closest to your home can be found by going to monroecounty.gov.

The latest data from the New York State Flu Tracker shows that, in our region, Monroe County continues to report the highest number of flu cases. They had 69 new infections during the week ending January 21st. Erie County had the second highest, with 58 new cases; Seneca County came in third with 18; Ontario County had 15. Niagara County reported 12 new cases of flu and Genesee County had 8. Since flu season started in October, 305,354 New Yorkers have tested positive for the illness.

Dawson Knox

Three more members of the Buffalo Bills have been selected to take part in the upcoming NFL Pro Bowl. It was announced yesterday that Dion Dawkins, Rodger Saffold, and Dawson Knox have been added to the AFC’s roster. They will be joining teammates Matt Milano, Stefon Diggs, Josh Allen, Jordan Poyer, and Mitch Morse. The Pro Bowl game is taking place this Sunday at Allegiant Stadium which is the home of the Las Vegas Raiders. Knox is the first Bills tight end to be named to the Pro Bowl since Paul Costa in 1966. Eight members of the Bills are now headed to the Pro Bowl, the most since 1992 according to Buffalo Bills PR.

NFL teams will have more money to spend ahead of next season. That’s because the salary cap is increasing to a new record of $224,800,000 (million). That’s a more than $16,000,000 (million) bump from this season.

Luke Bryan in concert (file photo)

Country music superstar Luke Bryan is going on tour later this year, and his second stop is going to be right here in Western New York. Bryan is set to perform at the Darien Lake Amphitheater on Friday, June 16th. Byran is known for several big hits including “Play It Again,” “Drunk on You,” and “Drink a Beer.” Tickets for the show go on sale this Friday morning at 10:00 through LiveNation.

Mine, all mine…

The Powerball jackpot is sky high with no grand prize winner in Monday night’s drawing. That pushes the top prize for tomorrow up to at least $653,000,000 (million), with a cash value optional payout of just over $350,000,000 (million). Please play responsibly.

The former principal of St Paul Lutheran Church and School has been arrested and indicted on counts of sexual conduct against a child in the second degree in Batavia.  Jason Clark was indicted on the 29th of December for 1 count of 2 or more acts of sexual conduct with a child less than 11 years old on or around labor day of 2014 and continuing till mid June of 2015, and 1 count of the same crime between labor day and June of the 2015-2016 school year.  Clark was arraigned and released on his own recognizance Monday.  He pleaded not guilty and will be back in court on March 27th.  

A Wyoming County man has pleaded guilty to first-degree sexual conduct against a child, the Wyoming County District Attorney’s Office announced Monday.  The district attorney’s office said 73-year-old Roger Bartz of Sheldon admitted to committing two or more acts of sexual conduct between November 10, 2021, and October 23, 2022, which involved a child who was six years old when the abuse began.  According to the district attorney’s office, as part of the plea agreement, Bartz will be sentenced on April 20 to a 10-year determinate sentence followed by 10 years of post-release supervision and if he is released he will be subject to the sex offender registration act.

A class action lawsuit has been filed against the city of Buffalo in regard to the lack of fluoride in the city’s water.  The lawsuit, filed by Buffalo residents, named not only the city of Buffalo, but the Mayor and the city’s water board chairman, as having deprived “Buffalo’s Residents of therapeutic fluoridated drinking water.”  The lawsuit additionally calls for the fluoridation of the water to immediately resume and for all the previously named defendants to be held responsible for damages to “plaintiffs, their families, and hundreds of thousands of other Buffalonians.”

Rochester teens continue stealing and joyriding Hyundais and Kias.  Around 6 p.m. on Sunday, officers responded to the area of S. Union St. and Chapman Alley for the report of several people stealing a Hyundai Elantra.  When police arrived, they found a group of suspects driving that vehicle, as they attempted to steal another Hyundai nearby.  Shortly after, officers say the suspect driving the stolen Elantra crashed into several parked vehicles, including an unoccupied police car, before fleeing the scene on foot.  During the pursuit, police detained four suspects, all between the ages of 13 and 15, allegedly involved in the incident.

The extra money that people receiving SNAP benefits were getting is coming to an end.  At the beginning of the pandemic, recipients were receiving emergency allotments of $95 or more in monthly benefits. Congress temporarily increased these benefits because of Covid-19, but after February’s payment, that emergency allotment will stop.  The amount was based on the number of people in the family so some families will see a dramatic drop in how much they receive each month.

Buffalo has 3 more players in the Pro Bowl.  Bills tight end Dawson Knox, tackle Dion Dawkins and guard Rodger Saffold have been named to the 2023 Pro Bowl.  Knox will be appearing in his first career Pro Bowl, replacing Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce who is unable to participate due to the Chiefs making it to the Super Bowl. Knox is the first Bills tight end to be named to the Pro Bowl since Paul Costa in 1966.  Eight members of the Bills are now headed to the Pro Bowl, the most since 1992 according to Buffalo Bills PR.

32-year-old Marquis Saddler of Rochester and 28-year-old Kara Sass of Batavia have been arrested. This followed a traffic stop late last week on West Main Street; the pair was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance and criminally using drug paraphernalia. Both were issued an appearance ticket and the vehicle was towed from the scene. Saddler and Sass are scheduled to appear in City Court on February 9th.  ALSO:  30-year-old Evan Vanskiver of Brockport has been arrested in Batavia. He is alleged to have been in possession of a controlled substance. During a traffic stop, a K9 (Rayzor) was called in and alerted police to the presence of narcotics. Vanskiver faces charges of criminal possession of a controlled substance. He was issued an appearance ticket and will return to Batavia City Court on February 26th.

Jeffrey Johnson

35-year-old Jeffrey Johnson of Oakfield has been indicted on 10 charges, including one where he overdosed and then threatened nurses at Wyoming County Community Hospital. He has a long history of drug and domestic-violence related arrests. Other current charges against Johnson include injecting fentanyl into a woman who had an order of protection against him. In court during arraignment, he entered a not guilty plea and the case was adjourned until March.

37-year-old Brian Daggar of Elba has been charged with petit larceny after allegedly stealing merchandise from a department store at 4140 Veteran’s Memorial Drive. He was released on an appearance ticket and will appear in the Town of Batavia Court on February 28th.

State Police have released the names of the two people who lost their lives due a crash in Chautauqua County. Troopers say 30-year-old Matthew Berry was driving the wrong way on Interstate 86 in Ellicott Saturday night when his vehicle collided head-on with a pickup truck. The pickup truck was then hit from behind by another vehicle. Berry died at the scene and the driver of the pickup truck, 57-year-old Todd Town, passed away at a nearby hospital. The investigation into the accident is ongoing.

According to Triple A today, the national average price for a gallon of gas is $3.51. The state average is $3.57. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.44 per gallon, up 5 cents from a week ago and 13 cents from a month ago today. By the way, one year ago today, our local price was $3.51 for a gallon of regular gas.

Returnable bottles

Advocates in the state are trying to build momentum for a bill that would once again expand New York’s bottle deposit law. The proposal would broaden the existing law, first enacted in 1983, by allowing more types of beverage containers to be covered, such as wine and liquor. The measure would also increase the amount of the deposit from 5 cents to 10 cents. (Photo by Doug Thompson, WBTA News)

Irondequoit Police car – file photo

Irondequoit police are looking into the distribution of what they’re calling concerning materials in one of their community’s neighborhoods. Officials say flyers with anti-Semitic messaging were spotted in the driveways of several homes in the Laurelton section of the town over the weekend. The flyers reportedly had a comment on them about how Jewish people are negatively affecting society. Anyone with information on this case is asked to dial 911 right away.

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and the New York State Department of Health is stressing the importance of screening appointments and getting the HPV vaccine. The acting health commissioner says screenings are the first line of defense against the disease and that early detection is key. Smoking has been shown to increase a person’s chances of getting cervical cancer and other risk factors include giving birth three or more times and using birth control pills for five years or more. To find out how to get a free or low-cost screening, visit health.ny.gov.

Registered pharmacist logo

CVS and Walmart are both cutting pharmacy hours and closing some locations earlier due to staffing shortages. Both companies have announced that starting in March, they will scale back hours at their pharmacies as the industry battles a shortage of pharmacists and other key positions. CVS is adjusting hours at about two-thirds of its retail pharmacies. And in the coming weeks, Walmart is planning to reduce pharmacy hours by closing at 7:00pm instead of 9 at most of its stores.

Super Bowl 57 logo

The Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs are set to meet in this year’s Super Bowl. Kansas City punched its ticket with a dramatic home win over the Cincinnati Bengals in Sunday’s AFC Championship Game. Earlier Sunday, Philly took down the San Francisco 49ers at home to secure the NFC crown. Super Bowl 57 is set for February 12th in Glendale, Arizona. If you want a ticket for the big game get ready to shell out some big money. Top priced tickets are going for over 33 thousand dollars. Even the cheap seats are extremely pricey with the cheapest seat available being 4500 dollars.

Please play responsibly.

Another Powerball drawing has come and gone without a winner and the jackpot has now surpassed the $600,000,000 (million) threshold. The top prize for tonight’s drawing is going to be at least $613,000,000 (million). There hasn’t been a Powerball jackpot winner in several weeks. The drawing will be streamed live at powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

The Albion lift bridge on Rt 98 has been completely disassembled.  The last trusses were supposed to be removed 2 weeks ago but the move was delayed till the end of last week.  The bridge closed to traffic on Nov. 14 and isn’t expected to reopen for 18 months. Crane-Hogan Structural Systems in Spencerport is general contractor for the project.  In rebuilding the Albion bridge, Crane-Hogan will replace bridge decks and portions of the truss system with high-strength, galvanized steel; modernize mechanical and electrical components within the bridge’s lifting system; rehabilitate the bridge tower; install new bridge rails; and repaint the bridge in the current shade of green.

In September 2019 plans were unveiled by Buffalo-based OnCore Golf Technology Inc., for a sports and entertainment complex on Kelly Island along the Buffalo River near RiverWorks.  This massive glass and screens structure would include a sportsbar, seating areas and a driving range held above the ground with a view of the river.  But one of the partners in the project, Doug Swift, says the renderings of the facility and the location are changing.  The 3 tiered driving range will just be 2 tiers.  There won’t be a hotel anymore, there will still be banquet, event and meeting spaces.  The new location for the 30 million dollar complex, projected to add 400-500 jobs to Buffalo, has not yet been disclosed.

For the first time since suffering cardiac arrest on January 2nd. Bills safety Damar Hamlin spoke to the public, via a video posted to both his personal and the official Buffalo Bills social media accounts.  Ending it with a message that read, “this is just the beginning of the impact that I want to have on the world. And with God’s guidance I will continue to do wonderful and great things. I couldn’t do this without any of the support and love. And I can’t wait to continue to take you all on this journey with me.”

It’s six more weeks of winter according to the prognostications of Buffalo Bert.  The local critter that lives at Hawk Creek saw his shadow on Saturday, forecasting more snow and cold to come.  At the same time there was a fundraiser for the Hawk Creek area and wildlife preservation at the Flying Bison Brewing Company with live music and raffles.  This was the first time there was a full groundhogs day celebration in 3 years.  The one with Puxatony Phil will take place on the 2nd of February.

The Buffalo Sabres dropped a 3-2 contest to the Minnesota Wild that ended in a shootout.  Minnesota’s Frederick Gaudreau scored the game winning goal after both teams remained tied at two following the overtime period.  Buffalo’s goals were scored by Jack Quinn and Zemgus Girgensons.  The Sabres end their four-game road trip winning three of four games and will return home to face the Hurricanes on Wednesday night.  Buffalo sits just one point back of the final wild card spot, behind Pittsburgh.

Well the Bills won’t be in it but the Super Bowl is set with the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs meeting for the big game.  Kansas City punched its ticket with a dramatic home win over the Cincinnati Bengals in Sunday’s AFC Championship Game.  Earlier Sunday, Philly took down the San Francisco 49ers at home to secure the NFC crown.  The Chiefs are making their third appearance in the big game since 2020, while the Eagles look to notch their second title in six seasons.  Super Bowl 57 is set for February 12th in Glendale, Arizona.  If you want a ticket for the big game get ready to shell out some big money.  Top priced tickets are going for over 33 thousand dollars.  Even the cheap seats are extremely pricey with the cheapest seat available being 4500 dollars.

The teens accused of carjacking a school secretary at Rochester School 54 are also the same kids who stole the car with 2 small children inside last week according to the Rochester Police Department.  At least one of the 16 year olds who threatened the school employee with a knife and demanded her car in the school parking lot was charged with grand larceny, unlawful imprisonment, and endangering the welfare of a child for the January 12 car theft.  Two suspects are being held at the Monroe County Children’s Detention Center. The other three teens were released and referred to family court.

In an awards ceremony Friday — the first one at the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office in a couple of years because of the pandemic — Deputy Kenneth A. Quackenbush, III, was named Officer of the Year by Sheriff William Sheron.  Several people were awarded for Meritorious Service: Corrections Officer James Smart, Emergency Service Dispatcher John Spencer the Second, Deputy Sheriff Nicholas Chamoun, Investigator Pete Welker, Community and Victim Services Counselor Rosanne DeMare.  Corrections Officer Matthew Luce was commended for his work maintaining the inmate property room.  Emergency Services Dispatcher Shelby Turner was commended for her work during winter storm Elliott.  Deputy Sheriff Jeremiah Gechell was commended for a traffic stop on May 7th which resulted in a large amount of illicit drugs being discovered and taken off the streets.  

GO ART! Is hosting a celebration of the life of James Owen on Sunday at 1pm and renaming the Owen Library as the James R Owen library.  When Mr. Owen donated the funds to make the library a reality, he did not want his first name associated with it.  He made GO ART!’s director promise that his first name would not be associated with it while he was alive.  The beautiful white baby grand piano in the Owen Library, donated by Mr. Owen, will be played with any and all welcome to sing along. Jim would sit for hours in the Library sharing stories, talking about his father and music, and doing his best to entertain.  Food will be provided, and the bar will be open.

The Genesee Amateur Hockey Association will host a USA Try Hockey For Free clinic as part of USA Hockey Week Across America at The David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena on Evans Street on Saturday, Feb, 25.  11:40 a.m. to 12:50 p.m., local youth, ages 4 to 9, are welcome at the rink to experience getting on the ice, learning how to “skate”, getting up after falling, basic skills with a hockey stick and shooting pucks into a hockey net.  All the participants need is a helmet and winter gloves.  Skates are available at the rink if needed and will be provided FREE by the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena Management Team.

Holland Land Office Museum has a few events coming up in the month of February.  On the 9th the Museum will be having its next Trivia Night at 7pm.  The topic is the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s through 70s.  The next event is a Guest speaker on February 16th at 7pm.  Patrick Ryan from the Buffalo History Museum will be presenting about Abolitionist William Wells Brown.  On February 23rd at 9am Java With Joe will bring Sharon Burkel of the Historic Batavia Cemetery Association to present on Watson Bullock, an African-American man who moved to Batavia in the 1880s and went on to make significant impacts on many local organizations during his life.

Rachelle Laney

37-year-old Rachelle Laney of Oakfield has been sentenced to 2 and a half years in prison, with shock camp and two years of post-release supervision. Shock camp provides strict, military-style discipline, with expectations of unquestioning obedience and structures days with drill and work. The program was designed to foster self-direction and individual responsibility. In 2020, Laney was found with a variety of drugs and paraphernalia during a traffic stop. It was also found she did not have a valid license because it had been revoked for a driving while impaired conviction the year before.

Example of phony parking ticket (provided by law enforcement)

The Better Business Bureau is advising people to watch out for a new twist on an old scam. Scammers are using technology to create fake parking tickets that look surprisingly official. It could be a phony if people receive a parking ticket but are confident they parked legally. Here’s how it works: You park in a legal parking zone or pay to park on the street or in a garage. While you are away from your car, scammers use high-tech, hand-held printers to make a fake ticket and leave it on your car’s windshield. This phony citation usually asks you to pay online or via PayPal. One recent case used a QR code to direct victims to a fake payment website. If you follow the instructions, you’ll end up paying a fine you don’t owe. One version of the scam sends victims an email and if you click on the link in the message, you’ll download malware onto your computer. Here’s how you can prevent getting scammed:

1) Know before you park — Before visiting a new place, research available parking and local parking requirements. Tourists with out-of-state plates are often the preferred target for parking scams because they need to familiarize themselves with local parking laws.
2) Examine the citation carefully — Scammers can imitate logos and city office names, but an imitation website is usually where the scam comes to light. Do an internet search for the city’s official parking ticket websites and compare what you find to what’s on the ticket. Keep in mind that government sites should end in a .gov or .ca (in Canada) designation, and if there is a payment page, it should always have a secure connection.
3) Double-check the name checks should be made out to. If the ticket allows for payment by check, take a closer look at the address the check should be sent and how it should be addressed. Checks should generally be made to a specific government organization, not a string of initials or personal names.
4) Pay traffic citations by credit card when possible. It will be easier to contest fraudulent charges if you discover you’ve been scammed down the road.

A’Mias Love

A Rochester mother has been arrested for allegedly murdering her one-year-old son and seriously hurting her young daughter. Police responded to a call at the Wilson Commencement Apartment Complex on Joseph Avenue on January 19th and found A’Mias Love injured and had him rushed to Strong Memorial Hospital where he died four days later. The boy’s two-year-old sister was also found injured but is expected to survive. Their mother, 26-year-old Bryasia Love, is now facing multiple charges.

School 54 – file photo

A teacher from School 54 in Rochester was carjacked by 5 kids at about 4:30 yesterday when she was leaving the school and getting into her car. The 49-year-old woman, who said she was just leaving work, was approached by a group of male teens while seated in her car. What was described as a machete was displayed by one of the suspects who then demanded her vehicle. The victim exited her car and complied. Part of the suspect group left in the vehicle they had arrived in and the others left in the victim’s vehicle. Police found the stolen car and initiated a chase that went from Otis St and ended on Mt Read when the underage driver slid in the snow and put the car in a ditch. Police say the five occupants, all juveniles, ran from the stolen vehicle but officers were able to take three boys and two girls into custody.

Protesting nurses – Rochester General Hospital – January 26 2023

Nurses at Rochester General Hospital are protesting unsafe working conditions because of staffing shortages. Members of the newly formed Rochester Union of Nurses and Allied Professionals protested outside the hospital yesterday. They’re looking to sign a deal with the hospital on a new labor contract. Nurses said in some units, the patient-to-nurse ratio is triple the safe standard. They claim, in some cases, one nurse is caring for up to 20 patients. Rochester Regional Health said Rochester General Hospital is seeing, on average, a 20 percent vacancy in registered nurses across all units — similar to other hospitals across the state. On Tuesday Governor Hochul said she would stay committed to keeping the roughly 34 thousand nurses and hospital workers who were fired because of the now voided vaccine mandate out of work.

After the Blizzard of ’77 – car attempts to drive down a street in Buffalo suburb

The Buffalo History Museum is currently collecting items from the deadly blizzard that rocked the Western New York region in December. Museum officials say they’re looking for people to share things like videos and photos of the weather disaster. Those items will then be preserved in the museum and will be a part of future projects, exhibits and programs. Anyone wishing to make a donation can fill out a form that’s been posted online at https://buffalohistory.org.

Tage Thompson

The red-hot Buffalo Sabres continue to roll after picking up their fifth victory in a row. Tage Thompson, Victor Olofsson, and Owen Power had a goal each as the Sabres defeated the Winnipeg Jets on the road last night by a final score of 3-2. Eric Comrie was solid in net for Buffalo and was able to stop 19 of 21 shots. They’ll take on the Minnesota Wild, tomorrow night at 9:00 for the final game of their road trip.

The Powerball jackpot continues to grow and that means there’s an even bigger prize up for grabs tomorrow night. The jackpot has risen to $572,000,000 (million) after no one correctly picked the winning numbers for Wednesday’s drawing. The odds of hitting the jackpot are one in more than 292,000,000 (million). The next drawing will be streamed live online at powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

‘Tis once again the season…

Tax season has officially started and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance is reminding people they can file the returns at no cost. The agency says people whose 2022 income is $73,000 or less can file their state and federal returns using the Free File software on the tax department’s website. It’s estimated that hundreds of thousands of folks take advantage of this service each year. The tax department also says the easiest and quickest way to get your return is by direct deposit.

A Teacher from School 54 in Rochester was carjacked by 5 kids at about 4:30 when she was leaving the school and getting into her car.  The 49-year-old woman, who said she was just leaving work from School #54, when she was approached by a group of male teens while seated in her car.  What was described as a machete, was displayed by one of the suspects who then demanded her vehicle.  In fear of injury, the victim exited her car and complied. Part of the suspect group left in the vehicle they had arrived in and the others left in the victim’s vehicle.  Police found the stolen car and initiated a chase that went from Otis St and ended on Mt Read when the underage driver slid in the snow and put the car in a ditch.  Police say the five occupants, all juveniles, ran from the stolen vehicle but officers were able to take three boys and two girls into custody.

A Canadian woman has pleaded guilty in federal court in Washington to mailing a threatening letter containing the poison ricin to then-President Donald Trump at the White House.  The letter from Pascale Ferrier was intercepted at a mail sorting facility in September 2020 before it could reach the White House. The Quebec woman also pleaded guilty to sending similar threatening letters to Texas law enforcement officials.  Ferrier was arrested at the Peace Bridge in September 2020. Authorities say she was carrying a gun, a knife and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.  She’s expected to be sentenced to nearly 22 years in prison under the terms of a plea deal with prosecutors.

A Rochester mother has been arrested for allegedly murdering her one-year-old son and seriously hurting her young daughter. Police responded to a call at the Wilson Commencement Apartment Complex on Joseph Avenue on January 19th and found A’Mias Love injured and had him rushed to Strong Memorial Hospital where he later died. The boy’s two-year-old sister was also found injured but is expected to survive. Their mother, 26-year-old Bryasia Love, is now facing multiple charges.

Rochester Nurses at Rochester General Hospital are protesting unsafe working conditions because of staffing shortages.  Members of the newly formed Rochester Union of Nurses and Allied Professionals protested outside the hospital Thursday.  They’re looking to strike a deal with the hospital on a new labor contract.  Nurses said in some units, the patient-to-nurse ratio is triple the safe standard. They claim, in some cases, one nurse is caring for up to 20 patients.  Rochester Regional Health said Rochester General Hospital is seeing, on average, a 20 percent vacancy in registered nurses across all units — similar to other hospitals across the state.  On Tuesday Governor Hochul said she would stay committed to keeping the roughly 34 thousand nurses and hospital workers who were fired because of the now voided vaccine mandate out of work.  

The Buffalo History Museum is currently collecting items from the deadly blizzard that rocked the Western New York region in December. Museum officials say they’re looking for people to share things like videos and photos and testimonials of the weather disaster. Those items will then be preserved in the museum and will be a part of future projects, exhibits and programs. Anyone wishing to make a donation can fill out a form that’s been posted online.

Tax season has officially started and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance is reminding residents they can file their returns at no cost. The agency says people whose 2022 income is 73-thousand dollars or less can file their state and federal returns using the Free File software on the tax department’s website. It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of folks take advantage of this service each year. The tax department also says the easiest and quickest way to get your return is by direct deposit.

The Boat Show has sailed back into Rochester and will be anchored there till Sunday.  The latest models of jet skis, inboards and outboards, pontoon boats and more are at the Riverside Convention Center.  It’s the first time the boats have returned since COVID, and organizers say there’s a good reason to buy right at the show.  On-site financing is also available.

Nearly half of the states across the country are rooting for the Bengals to make it to the Super Bowl.  Twitter fan support hashtag data compiled by BetOnline shows that people in 23 states want Cincinnati to advance to this year’s NFL final.  The AFC is seeing the most support nationwide, with another 19 states pulling for Kansas City.  Only six states are rooting for Philadelphia, and two for San Francisco.

The Buffalo Sabres added one more to their win streak with a 3-2 victory over the Winnipeg Jets on Thursday night.  Tage Thompson, Victor Olofsson and Owen Power scored for the Sabres.  Buffalo leaves the Canada Life Centre with a 3-2 win and a five-game win streak. They’ll take on Minnesota, Saturday at 9 p.m. for the final game of their road trip.

Attica Correctional Facility – file photo

Many people on staff at Attica Correctional Facility were injured during a fight. A violent inmate fought with officers attempting to frisk him for contraband outside the facility’s visitor’s room. The 43-year-old inmate had been visiting with a female on January 4th when he was observed to have his hands inside her pants. The inmate was ordered to leave the room to be frisked. He initially complied with requests but then allegedly became aggressive, ultimately requiring the assistance from many officers and a sergeant. Eventually they were able to gain control of the inmate. Throughout the melee 10 officers and the sergeant were injured and treated by the facility medical staff. The inmate was placed in a Special Housing Unit pending disciplinary charges. He is serving a 22 to 26 year sentence after being convicted in Monroe County in 2007 for attempted murder, assault and burglary.

Nicholas Turnquist

36-year-old Nicholas Turnquist, who last lived in West Falls, is serving a 13-year federal prison term for transporting a minor across state lines for sexual purposes. He has now had his last of many cases resolved in Genesee County Court, and was sentenced to a four-year term in prison. He will serve that sentence concurrent with his present prison term. Turnquist faced rape charges in 3 counties, along with federal charges, that led to an investigation into allegations of sexual activities with a minor. Genesee County sheriff’s deputies initially arrested him in October 2020 on charges of first-degree rape for a 2014 incident when he and the child were at Darien Lake Theme Park. Turnquist also was later charged in Erie County, where he later was convicted and sentenced to four years in state prison. Turnquist avoided a possible life in prison term in Wyoming County when all the charges were dismissed during his trial in 2021. The judge cited conflicting details during the testimony of the victim, including the timeline as to when the sexual assaults happened. Turnquist had in federal court admitted previously that he began a sexual relationship with the girl when she was 14.

Richard Castillo, Jr.

An Oakfield man facing 48 charges in two counties for repeatedly raping a child has pleaded guilty to one charge in Wyoming County Court. 39-year-old Richard Castillo, Jr. had been charged with first and third degree rape of a child under 15. He pleaded guilty to second-degree rape. Sentencing is set for April 27th. Castillo still faces additional, similar charges in Genesee County.

Letterhead, Town of Batavia

Daniel Felix, Sr. of Rochester is suing the Town of Batavia. He’s alleging that a sign on Batavia-Stafford Townline Road was pointing in the wrong direction, causing him to misread a curve in the roadway, resulting in a motorcycle accident in which he sustained significant injuries. The crash occurred in the Town of Stafford on August 9th, 2021. The Town of Batavia denies any negligence, culpable conduct or liability. Felix initially included Genesee County and The Towns of Stafford and Elba in the suit, but the action against them was discontinued.

45-year-old Stephen Thompson of Attica is charged with criminal possession and sale of a controlled substance. He is accused of selling methamphetamine to an undercover Wyoming County Task Force officer in Attica. Thompson’s trial date is set for April 10th. He has served two state prison terms in the past for dealing drugs in Wyoming County: First, in 2012 and then again in 2013.

Orleans County Courthouse

24-year-old Brennen Callara of Medina has been sentenced to 3-1/2 years in state prison for attempted robbery and petit larceny. He admitted that he threatened a cashier at Crosby’s in Medina last July by displaying a knife and demanding money. Callara also admitted to stealing a chain saw sharpener from Tractor Supply in Medina. The sentencing also satisfies other charges he faced in Shelby and Ridgeway. ALSO, in Orleans County Court: 27-year-old Brandon Belski of Holley has pleaded guilty to reckless endangerment, a class D felony. He admitted in court that last April, he pointed a shotgun at someone in a car and discharged the gun, hitting tires on the vehicle. Belski faces up to 9 months in county jail when he is sentenced in March.

There remains a winter weather advisory for Wyoming County until 11am tomorrow. The National Weather Service is predicting 5 to 10 inches of snow and 40 mile per hour winds with the most accumulations across the western ridges of the county. Snow covered roads in combination with periods of poor visibility will create dangerous driving conditions.

Senator Charles Schumer

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is calling on Democrats and Republicans to work together to prevent a possible debt ceiling crisis. Schumer said yesterday if the government does default, it would have a devastating impact on Upstate New York. Schumer says a default would risk benefits for over one-point-eight million upstate residents who are on Social Security. Medicare payments could also be interrupted, which would threaten the ability of people to receive and/or pay for healthcare.

Positive COVID-19 test result – file photo

The latest data from the state shows that the spread of the coronavirus has increased slightly in our region. Right now, the 7-day average infection rate is 6.39%. At this time last week the infection rate was at 6.35%. The infection rate in Erie County is holding steady; this week, at 11.87%. One week ago, it was 11.73%. Doctors are urging people who haven’t been vaccinated against COVID-19 or received an updated booster shot yet to get one as soon as possible. An appointment can be set up online by visiting vaccines.gov.

Unidentified children show the Band Aid where they received Omicron booster shot – file photo

The Omicron booster shot also protects against mild illness from other COVID subvariants. CDC officials said the Pfizer and Moderna boosters reduce the risk from the XBB subvariants by half. However, that would vary by age, with seniors having only a 42% reduced risk.

Josh Allen – file photo

Sean McDermott – file photo

The NFL has named Josh Allen and Sean McDermott as finalists for MVP of the year and Coach of the Year. Allen is going up against the Quarterbacks of the Bengals, Eagles, Chiefs and Minnesota Wide receiver Justin Jefferson. McDermott is going up against the coaches of the Giants, Jaguars, 49ers and Eagles. This is the 3rd time McDermott has been a finalist and the 2nd time for Allen. The winners will be announced at the 12th annual NFL Honors ceremony on February 9.

The Buffalo Sabres will continue their road trip tonight as they look to pick up their fifth win in a row. The Sabres are set to take on the Winnipeg Jets at the Canada Life Centre. Buffalo is coming off of a 5-3 win over the Saint Louis Blues Tuesday night and have earned 53 points this season. Face-off for tonight’s contest is set 8:00.

File photo – Galbani Italian Heritage Festival

Organizers of the Galbani Italian Heritage Festival in Buffalo have announced the dates for this year’s event. It will take place July 14th through 16th on Hertel Avenue in the city. The free festival is one of the most popular summer events in the region and is usually attended by thousands of people. More information about the event will be released at a later date.

There is a winter weather advisory for Wyoming County till 11am on Friday.  The National Weather Service is predicting 5 to 10 inches of snow and 40 mile per hour winds mostly in the western portions of the county.  Blowing snow could reduce visibility and produce drifts in parts of the roadway.  Be careful on hills and turns as road conditions may change suddenly.

Governor Kathy Hochul says she will not be allowing any unvaccinated healthcare workers to return to their jobs even after the New York Supreme Court said the COVID 19 Vaccine mandate was unconstitutional.  The state has been experiencing a healthcare staffing shortage ever since the mandate was put in place by Governor Cuomo and then extended by Hochul.  It is estimated that New York lost nearly 34,000 health care workers due to the vaccination requirement.  Waits at some hospitals for Ambulances to even offload their patients can reach 5-6 hours at times.  Hochul responded when asked if she would let unvaccinated workers return to the job that she didn’t want people who could spread COVID working in healthcare.  Pfizer and Moderna stated several months ago that their vaccines do not stop transmission and that they were never tested for stopping transmission.  Although initially labeled as misinformation it has since been confirmed by the CDC and NIH.  When the policies for mandates were unveiled it was explained they were based on the vaccines stopping transmission of the COVID virus.

A US Magistrate has stopped the lawsuit against David Bellavia by his ex-wife Deanna King after saying that her lawyer, Nate McMurray, failed to make a case for her arrest in January of 2021 being without probable cause.  She was suing him and the Sheriffs Department of Orleans County and several other county entities on the grounds that Bellavia had conspired to have her arrested for disparaging social media posts.  Bellavia, a former Batavia resident, was bestowed the Medal of Honor by President Donald Trump in 2019.  King is a Batavia resident and a broadcast personality in Rochester.  Bellavia says that the lawsuit was just to get the divorce proceedings unsealed so that King could use the statements that were under seal to defame him.  

The City Center Concourse Mall Market is taking applications for vendors.  Through the Fall every Saturday morning there were vendors in the Mall concourse hawking their wares.  They took a break for the beginning of the year but the Saturday shopping opportunities are returning.  The market will now be open 10am through 1:30pm.  It will be closed on March 25th and April 15th for the Everpresent Church vendor fundraiser and the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce Home Show respectively.  The fee to be a vendor is 20 dollars but your first weekend is free.  Call Tammy at 585 813 8054 for information.

Josh Allen and Sean McDermott have been named as finalists for MVP of the year and Coach of the Year by the NFL.  Each award has 5 finalists.  Allen is going up against the Quarterbacks of the Bengals, Eagles, and Chiefs and Minnesota Wide receiver Justin Jefferson.  McDermott is going up against the coaches of the Giants, Jaguars, 49ers and Eagles.  This is the 3rd time McDermott has been a finalist and the 2nd time for Allen.  The winners will be announced at the 12th annual NFL Honors ceremony on February 9.

The Buffalo Sabres will continue their road trip tonight as they look to pick up their fifth win in a row. The Sabres are set to take on the Winnipeg Jets at the Canada Life Centre. Buffalo is coming off of a five-to-three win over the Saint Louis Blues Tuesday night and have earned 53 points this season. Face-off for tonight’s contest is set for eight p-m.

Jasmyne Rubel

Christopher Scinta

The motorcyclist who was involved in the death of his teenage passenger at the roundabout on Oak Street in Batavia has now been indicted for felony manslaughter. 27-year-old Christopher Scinta of Buffalo is accused of killing 17-ywear-old Jasmyne Rubel by driving recklessly and causing her to fall off the Kawasaki they were both riding. The 9-count indictment also includes charges of reckless driving, criminal mischief, obstructing governmental administration, obstructing emergency medical personnel, and leaving the scene of a property damage accident. On November 4th Scinta allegedly drove his motorcycle over the curb of the roundabout at high speed causing Rubel to be thrown off. He then fought the EMTs and tried to prevent them from helping her before mounting his bike and riding away. After being caught by police he attempted to escape and then damaged the window in the police station in another attempt. Rubel and Scinta were a couple; however, the exact status of their relationship was unknown. She did have a Facebook page with the name Jasmyne Scinta.

What started as a winter weather advisory for Genesee and Orleans Counties is now a Winter Storm Warning until 10pm this evening, that also includes Monroe and Northern Erie Counties. Heavy snow is now expected, with light snow through midday. This afternoon, snowfall rates over 1 inch per hour between 1 and 5 pm are predicted. The heaviest snow will occur from the Buffalo North towns along and north of the Thruway toward Rochester. Snow will change to light rain this evening. Winds could gust as high as 35 miles per hour tonight. Widespread accumulating snow will create dangerous travel conditions. A winter weather advisory remains in effect for Wyoming County until 10pm this evening.

Indictments: David Leroy of Corfu has been indicted for criminal possession of a weapon, a Class D felony. Leroy is accused of knowingly possessing a switchblade knife in the Town of Pembroke. ALSO: Shannon Marvin of Bergen is indicted on a count of grand larceny, a Class E felony. She is accused of stealing a Discover card belonging to another person.

Amherst Police car – file photo

Amherst police are still trying to track down the suspect in a shooting that left one person injured. The 27-year-old victim was hit by gunfire yesterday near the Red Roof Plus Inn, which is located across from the University at Buffalo’s Amherst campus. He was brought to Erie County Medical Center and treated for non-life threatening injuries. Police believe there is no threat to the public.

Mark Trykowski

The Erie County District Attorney’s Office says that a Kenmore man has pleaded guilty to committing a disturbing crime. Prosecutors say 43-year-old Mark Trykowski forcibly engaged in sexual conduct with a woman this past July at a location in Buffalo. Trykowski was linked to the assault using DNA and other evidence. He is facing up to 25 years behind bars when he’s sentenced in March. Trykowski is currently being held without bail.

Lieutenant Greg Bello – file photo

Police in Rochester are saying crime has hit a milestone. Over 200 cars have been stolen in the city in just the first 25 days of the year with 147 of them in the last 2 weeks. Rochester Police Lieutenant Greg Bello says most of the arrests in the car thefts are minors who are being arrested multiple times and then released. He also says that most of the cars stolen are Hyundais or Kias. He says the City is working with town and village police departments who are also experiencing a rise in car thefts to figure out what they can do to stop main suspects from stealing more cars in the future.

Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen

The Buffalo Sabres have extended their winning streak to four games after picking up another victory on the road. Dylan Cozens, Jeff Skinner, Tage Thompson Alex Tuch, and Owen Power scored a goal each as the Sabres beat the Saint Louis Blues five-to-three at the Enterprise Center last night. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen was solid in net for Buffalo and stopped 25 of the 28 shots he faced. Buffalo’s next game is tomorrow night when they visit the Winnipeg Jets. Face-off is at 8:00.

There has not been a Powerball jackpot winner in months, but lottery players are definitely hoping luck is going to be on their side tonight. The top prize up for grabs this evening is $526,000,000 (million) after no one correctly picked all of the winning numbers for Monday’s drawing. The drawing will be streamed live online at powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

A winter weather advisory has been issued for Wednesday for Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties, starting at 7 a.m. and lasting until 10 p.m.  The National Weather Service anticipates mixed precipitation, changing to mainly light rain by Wednesday evening.   Total snow accumulation could be 2 to 4 inches.  Wind gusts of 30 mph expected.  Travelers are advised of potentially slippery road conditions.

A local pastor is suing the State Attorney General over a civil rights violation.  Reverend Paul Doyle, pastor of the Cornerstone Church in Batavia that hosted the ReAwaken America Tour in August, alleges that Letitia James violated his and his church’s civil rights by attempting to intimidate the church into canceling the event.  Doyle is joined in the lawsuit by the event organizer, Clay Clark.  2 weeks before the event James sent a letter to the church warning them of the state having to take action against them if there were any racism or violations of New York’s Civil Rights laws or if any violence occurred.  The letter details penalties and concerns the AG had over the event and linked it to violence such as the Tops Shooting in May and the Charlottesville Rally in 2017.  A spokesperson for James’ office said that the letter was simply to remind them of New York State’s Laws.  No violence or civil rights violations were forthcoming at the event or after.  Antifa, a group linked to dozens of deaths, hundreds of injuries among civilians and police and billions of dollars in property damages in 2020, also had a rally in Batavia at the same time as the ReAwaken America event, it is unknown if they received a letter as well. 

A motorcyclist who was involved in the death of their teenage passenger at the roundabout on Oak Street in Batavia has been indicted for Manslaughter and other crimes.  Christopher Scinta is accused of killing Jasmyne Rubel by driving recklessly into the roundabout causing her to fall off the Kawasaki they were both riding and die.  He is also accused of reckless driving, criminal mischief, obstructing governmental administration, obstructing emergency medical personnel, and leaving the scene of a property damage accident.  On November 4th Scinta allegedly drove his motorcycle over the curb of the roundabout at high speed causing Rubel to be thrown off.  He then fought the EMTs and tried to prevent them from helping her before mounting his bike and riding away.  After being caught by police he attempted to escape and then damaged the window in the police station in another attempt.

It’s not even February yet and the police in Rochester are saying crime has hit a milestone.  Over 200 cars have been stolen in the city in just the first 25 days of the year.  147 in the last 2 weeks.  Rochester Police Lieutenant Greg Bello says most of the arrests in the car thefts are minors who are being arrested multiple times and then released.  He also says that most of the cars stolen are Hyundais or Kias.  He says the City is working with town and village police departments who are also experiencing a rise in car thefts to figure out what they can do to stop main suspects from stealing more cars in the future.  

The Batavia Save-A-Lot recently conducted a holiday food drive in support of local Catholic Charities’ clients needing emergency assistance.  Catholic Charities is planning a parish pop-up event at one of the local churches in the near future to distribute the 72 bags of groceries generously donated by Save-A-Lot to help those in need in Genesee County.

The Batavia Police Department has closed out the Movember / Don’t Shave December campaigns for 2022. The department was able to raise $1,560 for Genesee Cancer Assistance. Department members would like to thank the community for their support and donations.  The Movember Worldwide Campaign started in 2003 in Australia and has since grown. Movember was created to bring awareness to Men’s Health, specifically, prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention.

The Buffalo Sabres continue their 4 game road trip with another win, this time against the Blues 5 to 3.  This is their 4th win in a row.  Tage Thompson, Jeff Skinner, Alex Tuch, Owen Power and Dylan Cozens all scored 1 goal each for Buffalo.  At the net, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 26 saves.  Buffalo plays against the Winnipeg Jets for the second time in just 2 weeks on Thursday at 8pm.  The Jets beat the Sabres 4 to 2 on January 12th.   

Fans of Dave Matthews Band now have a date they can circle on their 2023 calendars. The group has announced it’s returning to the Darien Lake Amphitheater on Wednesday, June 14th. The tour will coincide with the band’s new album titled “Walk Around the Moon” which will be its latest studio album release. Tickets for this show go on sale February 17th.

Marco Coles

A parolee from Rochester has been arrested and jailed, following a complaint to police of a burglary in progress. Troopers responded to a home on Telephone Road, Pavilion and a short time later, arrested 35-year-old Marco Coles of Rochester. Coles had stolen a car earlier but abandoned it before breaking into the house. Coles was charged with second-degree burglary, felony criminal mischief for damage done while breaking into the home, third degree possession of stolen property and also burglary with intent to steal. He was arraigned and committed to Genesee County Jail without bail. Coles was released from state prison May 2 after serving a five-year term for an attempted robbery conviction in Monroe County in 2017. His parole expired in August but he is on post-release supervision until February 11, 2027, according to state Department of Corrections. Coles also served a four-year term for a 2012 robbery conviction in Monroe.

A woman in Corfu will serve a year of federal probation after she took money from people for a fraudulent charity in Africa. Back in 2015, 57-year-old Julie Keller started soliciting money for what she thought was an orphanage in Africa. She continued to collect money through 2020. She received about $183,000 (thousand), which she deposited in several different banks. Investigation revealed that she knew she was supporting a fake charity but kept fundraising anyway. Each of the banks she worked with shut down her accounts for fraudulent or suspicious activity. It’s unclear at this time whether or not she kept any of the money or just sent it to the scammers; however, either way, she was ordered to repay all of the money she took.

Superintendent Smith

The Batavia City School District’s Board of Education has unanimously approved an amendment to extend Superintendent Jason Smith’s contract through June 2027. In exchange for his long-term commitment to the district, the Board granted Smith non-salary benefits, including a $3000 annual stipend should he choose not to enroll in the District’s insurance plan, a $2000 annual increase of his retirement contribution as well as compensation for unused vacation and sick days, which would only be received following his retirement from the District. The amendment to Superintendent Smith’s contract will take effect July 1, 2023. An option for both Smith and the Board of Education to extend the contract on an annual basis beyond 2027 is also in place.

Lisa Shuler

Seth Larson

An Irondequoit man is facing prison time after being convicted of brutally murdering his girlfriend. It took a jury only a few hours yesterday to find 41-year-old Seth Larson guilty of killing 37-year-old Lisa Shuler. Her remains were discovered in 2021 at the residence she shared in Irondequoit with Larson and also at Durand Lake. Larson will be sentenced in March.

Unidentified sick child – file photo

The latest New York State Flu Tracker data shows Monroe County still has the highest number of flu cases in our region, with 132 confirmed cases of the illness during the week that ended January 14th. Erie County has the second highest with 81; and Ontario County, the third-highest number of infections with 35. The overall number of New Yorkers who have contracted the flu since the season started is 300,907.

Governor Hochul

Newly sworn in Governor Hochul has the highest approval rating she has ever had according to a Siena College poll. Her approval rating average is 56 percent, which is up from 49 last month. Her stance on taxes and making more jobs are the most popular. People polled also think she will make the state safer and work to fix the mental health system. Increasing tuition at SUNY schools was not popular. Democrats were far more likely to approve of her actions and promises but Republicans also approved of the majority of her plans.

According to Triple A, the average national cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.45. The state average is at $3.53 a gallon. In Batavia, we’re paying an average per gallon price of $3.40, up a penny from yesterday and a nickel from a week ago.

Governor Hochul says three Western New York communities are going to be sharing $19,000,000 (million) in funding. The governor said yesterday some of the $10,000,000 (million) Dunkirk is receiving will be used to create a Strategic Investment Plan. The goal of that plan is to look into economic development, transportation, housing and community projects that’ll improve the community’s downtown area. Lancaster and Wellsville will be evenly splitting the remaining $9,000,000 (million).

Owen Power

The Buffalo Sabres have extending their winning streak to three games after picking up a victory in the Lone Star State. Owen Power scored the deciding goal in overtime as the Sabres defeated the Dallas Stars 3-2 at the American Airlines Center last night. Victor Olofsson and Rasmus Dahlin also had a goal each while goalie Craig Anderson stopped 29 of the 31 shots he faced in the contest. Up next for the Sabres is a road game tonight against the Saint Louis Blues.

The moment of Josh Allen’s elbow injury – 11/8/22

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen says he’s not planning to have surgery on his injured elbow during the off-season. Allen made the announcement yesterday during his end-of-the season news conference, saying he believes resting his arm will be enough for it to fully recover. Allen was hurt during a game with the New York Jets during the regular season but never missed a start.

Plans to build a brand-new stadium for the Buffalo Bills have taken another important step forward. Yesterday, the directors of the Erie County Stadium Corporation signed off on a deal that would allow an over one-billion-dollar facility to be built near Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park which is where the team currently plays its home games. The state will provide $600,000,000 (million) for the project; the Bills will pay $550,000,000 (million), and the cost for the county will be $250,000,000 (million). The hope is the stadium can be open for the 2026 season.

Brooks & Dunn, file photo from 2022

Popular country music duo Brooks and Dunn are bringing their “Reboot 2023 Tour” to Buffalo this year. They’ll be performing at the KeyBank Center on Saturday, May 13th in the KeyBank Center. Brooks and Dunn will be joined at the show by former American Idol winner Scotty McCreery. Tickets for the concert go on sale this Friday at 10:00am at the box office or through Ticketmaster.

Newly Sworn in Governor Hochul has the highest approval rating she has ever had according to a Siena College poll.  Her approval rating average is 56 percent which is up from 49 last month.  Her stance on taxes and making more jobs are the most popular.  People polled also think she will make the state safer and work to fix the mental health system.  Increasing Tuition at SUNY schools was not popular.  Democrats were far more likely to approve of her actions and promises but Republicans also approved of the majority of her plans.

A woman in Corfu will serve a year of federal probation after she took money from people for a fraudulent charity in Africa.  57 year old Julie Keller started soliciting money for an orphanage in Africa in 2015 and continued through 2020.  She got about 183 thousand dollars in donations and deposited it in several different banks.  The case against her found that she knew she was supporting a fake charity but kept fundraising anyway.  Each of the banks she worked with shut down her accounts for fraudulent or suspicious activity.  It isn’t clear if she kept any of the money or just sent it to scammers.  She was ordered to repay 163 thousand of the money she took.

Batavia High School has a new head coach for the Varsity Football Program, Alex Veltz.  Veltz is a Batavia High School graduate and a member of the 2003 and 2004 Varsity Football teams. In 2018, he returned to BCSD as a social studies teacher at Batavia High School.  He joined the Batavia Football program coaching staff in 2012 and 2013 as a defensive coordinator for the JV team, then returned in 2019 as the JV offensive coordinator and moved to the Varsity program in 2021 as the offensive coordinator.  Superintendent Jason Smith says that “Veltz is a Blue Devil through and through!”

The office for the Aging is hosting the Western New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association for an event on how to use healthy habits to improve the body and mind.  The event is today from 2 to 3 pm and will cover 4 areas of lifestyle habits associated with healthy aging: cognitive activity, exercise, diet and nutrition, and social engagement.  Participants will learn, based on current research, the steps they can take now to improve or maintain overall health in each area and use hands-on tools to help incorporate these recommendations into a plan for healthy aging.

Batavia drivers are paying just a little bit more money when it comes time to fill up their vehicles these days. According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is three-40. That’s up five cents in the past week and is eleven cents higher than a month ago. The state average is at three-53 a gallon and nationally it is three-45.

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester has announced the funeral arrangements for Bishop Emeritus Matthew Clark. He passed away over the weekend at the age of 85 and had been in declining health for some time. A public visitation will be this Sunday from three p-m until seven p-m at Sacred Heart Cathedral and that’ll be followed by another public visitation Monday from ten a-m until 11-30 a-m and Clark’s funeral at noon. Clark was the leader of the diocese from 1979 until 2012.

The Buffalo Sabres put a third game in a row in the win column with a 3-2 overtime victory over the Dallas Stars on Monday night.  Rookie Owen Power, Rasmus Dahlin, and Victor Olofsson scored for Buffalo.  Craig Anderson Stopped 29 shots in the net.  Sabres will continue to try to work their way up in the East as their four game road trip continues tonight against the St. Louis Blues.  Puck drop at the Enterprise Center is at 8pm. 

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen says he’s not planning to have surgery on his injured elbow during the offseason. Allen made the announcement yesterday during his end-of-the season news conference, saying he believes resting his arm will be enough for it to fully recover. Allen was hurt during a game with the New York Jets during the regular season but never missed a start. The Bills were eliminated from the playoffs by the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday.

Ronald Washburn

62-year-old Ronald Washburn of Stafford has been indicted on charges of sexually abusing two children, in separate cases 10 years apart. Both children were less than 11 years of age. Washburn was their babysitter; the investigation has been ongoing since 2018.

37-year-old Donald Dylag, Jr. of Corfu has been indicted on one count of assault in the second degree, a Class D violent felony. Dylag is accused of intent to cause serious physical injury to a person in Pembroke on August 9th.

54-year-old Ronald Charles Inzinna of LeRoy is charged with criminal contempt. He is accused of violating a stay-away order of protection in the Town of Le Roy. Inzinna was issued an appearance ticket.

General Motors has announced it plans to invest $68,000,000 (million) in its plant in Rochester. The automaker says the move will help position them in the forefront of the rapidly-growing electric vehicle market. Officials with G-M say the Rochester plant is uniquely positioned to help enable the company to transition to electric vehicles. Over the next two years, they say they could add another 100 employees to the 750 who already work at the plant.

Josh Allen with other Bills players – January 22, 2023

For the second consecutive season, the Buffalo Bills exited the postseason with a loss in the AFC Divisional round. The Cincinnati Bengals dominated Buffalo at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park yesterday, 27-to-10. The Bills were unable to score the entire second half. Josh Allen completed 25 of his 42 pass attempts for 265 yards and ran for a touchdown, but also threw one interception. Cincinnati heads to Kansas City next Sunday to face the Chiefs for a spot in Super Bowl 57 in Arizona next month. It’s also a rematch of last year’s AFC title game, which the Bengals won. Meanwhile, the match-ups are set for the NFC and AFC Championship Games. The San Francisco 49ers beat the Cowboys to advance to their third NFC title game in the last four seasons. The Niners will face the top-seeded Eagles in Philadelphia with a trip to the Super Bowl on the line. The Bengals and Chiefs will square off in the AFC Championship Game for the second straight season after Cincinnati beat Buffalo in the Divisional round.

Damar Hamlin at Bills game – 1/22/23

Buffalo safety Damar Hamlin returned to Highmark Stadium for the first time yesterday since his medical emergency at a game earlier this month. Hamlin was seen entering the team locker room on his own before kickoff, followed by his mom, his dad and his younger brother. The Bills took to Twitter to welcome Hamlin home after he suffered cardiac arrest during a game earlier this month. While his family said he has a long road ahead, doctors have called Hamlin’s recovery “fairly remarkable.”

Peyton Krebs

The Sabres won their Saturday night game against the Anaheim Ducks 6 to 3. Victor Olofsson and Peyton Krebs scored twice each and Dylan Cozens and Jeff Skinner scored once each for the Sabres. This makes 2 in a row for Buffalo who now have a record of 23-19 and 3. They play again tonight in Dallas against the Stars, with face-off at 8:30.

Costs are up at the Postal Service this week. Yesterday, the cost of a first class forever stamp went up from 60-cents to 63-cents. Other price hikes include the cost of sending a domestic postcard from 44 cents to 48 cents and an international postcard went from $1.40 to $1.45.

Regal Cinema, Transit Road, Williamsville

Regal Cinemas is closing two locations in Western New York. The news comes after the nation’s second-largest theater chain announced last week that they would be shutting down nearly 40 locations across the country. The Buffalo area locations affected are the Regal on Transit Road in Williamsville and the location on Elmwood Avenue in North Buffalo. Regal had closed a dozen other theaters prior to filing for bankruptcy. Business Insider reports the company just can’t seem to rebound from the pandemic.

The Governor was in Buffalo to recognize heroes of the Christmas weekend blizzard and members of the Genesee Snopackers were among the dozens of people in attendance.  Nathan Fix and Tony Johnston received the Governor’s Medal of Public Service.  Fix and Johnston, along with Deputy Kevin McCarthy, who rode with them in the Snopackers groomer and received a certificate of recognition, spent 17 hours in Oakfield and Alabama, making their way through heavy wind and snow on snow-covered roads, rescuing people from stranded vehicles.

A Batavia man has been indicted on charges of sexually abusing a child.  Ronald Washburn is indicted on a count of sexual abuse in the first degree, a Class D violent felony, and one count of sexual conduct against a child, a Class D felony. Washburn is accused of sexual contact with a child less than 11 years old in the City of Batavia at least two or more times between February 2018 and April 2018.

Batavia Downs has announced 2 new events coming to the casino in February and March.  The 4th Annual Brew Fest will be February 18th from 5 to 8pm.  It is presented by the Young Lion and Genesee Brewery.  Tickets are 40 dollars for 3 hours of beer sampling from Western New York Breweries.  The second event taking place on March 3rd is a concert with KISS tribute band KISS This.  Tickets are 15 dollars and come with 10 dollars in free play on the day of the show.  Tickets for these 2 events will be available at www.BataviaConcerts.com beginning on Friday, Jan. 20 at 10 a.m.

Bishop Emeritus Matthew Clark, the former head of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester, died early Sunday at age 85 according to the diocese.  Clark was Bishop of Rochester from 1979 to 2012.  He retired at 75 years old.  In 2019 he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.  In a letter sent to priests, deacons, and the religious and lay faithful of the Diocese of Rochester, Bishop Salvatore Matano said Clark died in his room at the Sisters of Saint Joseph Motherhouse following “a period of declining health.”

The Buffalo Sabres won their game against the Anaheim Ducks Saturday night 6 to 3.  Victor Olofsson and Peyton Krebs scored twice each and Dylan Cozens and Jeff Skinner scored once each for the Sabres.  This makes 2 in a row for the Sabres who have a record of 23 and 19 and 3.  Their next matchup is tonight in Dallas against the Stars at 8:30.

The Cincinnati Bengals are punching their ticket to the AFC Championship Game.  They notched a road win over the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, 27-10.  Cincinnati heads to Kansas City next Sunday to face the Chiefs for a spot in Super Bowl 57 in Arizona next month.  It’s also a rematch of last year’s AFC title game, won by the Bengals.  Buffalo’s season came to an end as safety Damar Hamlin attended the game following his on-field cardiac arrest earlier this month.

The woman who’s dog, Oddey, a french bulldog, ate cocaine, has once again failed to appear for her court date.  30 year old Cassandra Elmore actually did show up, but then left the building before her case was called on Friday afternoon.  A warrant will be issued for her arrest at 2 p.m. on Monday if she doesn’t appear in court before then.  Legally, Elmore still owns Oddey, and the animal shelter must care for it without putting it up for adoption unless she signs over custody of the dog to the county or the case is resolved in a manner that permits her to again take possession of the dog.  Since her initial arrest, Elmore has also been charged with criminal possession of a weapon, obstruction of governmental administration, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd.  Elmore has failed to appear several times and the judge has been lenient on all previous occasions.

3 people, 48 year old Timothy Tucker, 23 year old Chastity Banks, and 19 year old Loany Gato Aronategui were arraigned in Buffalo City Court Friday for criminal possession of a controlled substance after they were caught with 14 kilos of cocaine inside a garage in a rental home.  The home was on the 100 block of Pine Street in Buffalo.  The 3 are suspected of being part of a trafficking ring stretching from coast to coast.  They are from California and Nevada.

Remarkable as Damar Hamlin’s recovery has been, the Buffalo Bills safety still faces a lengthy rehabilitation some three weeks after going into cardiac arrest and needing to be resuscitated on the field during a game in Cincinnati, his marketing representative told The Associated Press on Thursday night.  Hamlin is still on oxygen, and a heart monitor.  Hamlin has not yet made a public appearance except for a photograph linebacker Matt Milano posted on his Instagram account of his teammate at the Bills facility on Saturday. And he’s not yet spoken publicly except for posting messages on his social media accounts.

The Holland Land Office is having their next Java with Joe on Thursday the 26th at 9am.  Richard Beatty will be presenting, “The Darwin Martin House-Frank Lloyd Wright’s Buffalo 1905 Masterpiece.” Admission is free, and coffee and donuts will be served.  Richard Beatty, a senior docent at the site, will give a presentation on Wright’s incredible design, his client Darwin D. Martin, and the long history of the complex.  Abandoned and neglected during the Depression, taken for back taxes in 1946, and then partially demolished in 1960, the complex of buildings and landscape has been completely restored.  Part of Mr Beatty’s presentation will include a history of the organization that took shape in the 1980s in response to the ongoing decline of the masterpiece, focusing on the key role that volunteers play in presenting the site to visitors from all over the world.

40 Buffalo Plows have been named by the public with fairly predictable results.  In November the Erie County Department of Public Works announced a new contest to name a county snowplow.  A spokesperson for the department announced 3,116 plow truck names were submitted by the public for the contest. That number was then narrowed down to 104 finalists in an “under 18” category and 111 finalists in an “over 18” category. The names that were chosen as finalists were then posted for public voting. Voters were asked to choose their top five names in each category.  The top name in the under 18 category was Stefon Diggsyouout.  And in the over 18 category it was Plowey McPlowface, a reference to the publicly chosen name for the UK Research vessel which was officially named RRS Sir David Attenborough and had the name Boaty McBoatface applied to one of its Underwater vehicles instead.  Crews will be affixing the new names to the plows over the coming days and participants who submitted the winning names will be contacted to have a photo taken with “their” snowplow if they choose to.

Jim Owen

The man known as the mayor of Redfield Parkway, passed away yesterday. Jim Owen was well known in the community and WBTA has devoted the next Genesee Life program with Lucine Kauffman as a tribute to Jim Owen. The program airs this Sunday morning at 8:30 and can be streamed anytime on the Genesee Life page here, on our website.

File photo of unidentified man shoveling snow

Wyoming County is under a winter weather advisory until 1:00am tomorrow morning with the national weather service predicting 4 to 7 additional inches of snow accumulation. Periods of snow will result in snow covered roads and occasional limited visibility.

Provided photo of ambulance in need of replacement

The fundraiser for a new ambulance in LeRoy continues. To date, they have raised a little over $28,000 and they continue to accept donations. The anticipated cost of the new ambulance is roughly $182,000, which is likely to increase as costs continue to rise. They are also exploring grant and financing options. To find out how you can donate, call 768-8612.

Rachel Tabelski (file photo)

City Manager Rachel Tabelski tells us that the City of Batavia is considering a raise in the tax cap. She noted the rising prices of diesel, health care, and wages as reasons for asking the City to override the state regulated tax cap this year. Batavia City Council members voted to override the state’s 2 percent property tax cap just two years ago, passing a 7.5 percent property tax increase as part of the City’s 2020-21 budget. Tabelski will provide a budget presentation and Council is expected to review and discuss her recommendations during its conference session next week. The session is set for 7:00pm, Monday January 23rd, in the Council Board Room at City Hall.

Raymond Girard

34-year-old Raymond Girard of Rochester has been charged with numerous felony thefts in Livingston County. He is also a felon caught in possession of ammunition, that’s the most recent charge and stems from alleged death threats Girard made to Monroe County executive Adam Bello. The thefts included credit cards, several vehicles, money, tools and a drum set. Girard remains in Monroe County Jail with bail set at $5000.

Buffalo Mayor Brown and Mark Poloncarz

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz says the number of people who lost their lives during the recent blizzard has increased by three. That means the death toll due to last month’s weather disaster is now sitting at 47. There were 46 deaths in Erie County and one in Niagara County. Poloncarz said yesterday a medical examiner is trying to determine if three more deaths are connected to the storm.

Aftermath of house fire at 140 Harbor Street, Wilson NY

An investigation is still underway into what started a fire in Niagara County that left a father and his young child injured. The blaze happened late Wednesday night at a home on Harbor Street in the Village of Wilson. When the first crews arrived, the residence was engulfed in flames and a five-year-old boy ended up being taken to Oshei Children’s Hospital, and then transferred to Strong and remains in critical condition. His 35-year-old father is at Erie County Medical Center and early this morning was listed in serious condition in the burn unit. No one else at the house was hurt.

There’s still a couple of months left of cold weather, and the Firefighters Association of the State of New York is providing tips to make sure folks heat their homes safely. The agency recommends keeping anything that can burn at least three feet away from a heating source, never using your oven to heat your home and having your chimney inspected by a qualified professional. Also, test smoke alarms at least once a month and turn portable heaters off before leaving a room. Studies show heating equipment is the third leading cause of home fire deaths.

The Buffalo Bills will be back in action this Sunday as they look to keep their season alive against the defending AFC champions. The Bills are hosting the Cincinnati Bengals at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. These two teams played in the regular season, but that game ended up being canceled after Damar Hamlin of the Bills collapsed and went into cardiac arrest. Kickoff for Sunday’s contest is scheduled for 3:00.

Dylan Cozens

The Buffalo Sabres have snapped their two-game losing streak after picking up a much-needed win on home ice. Dylan Cozens scored in overtime as the Sabres beat the New York Islanders 3-2 at KeyBank Center last night. Alex Tuch and Victor Olofsson also had a goal each for the Sabres and goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen stopped 24 of 26 shots. Buffalo’s next game is tomorrow against the Anaheim Ducks; the puck drops at 12:30.

File photo of unidentified woman donating blood

The American Red Cross is offering blood donors the chance to watch Super Bowl 57 in-person next month. Anyone who donates blood until January 31st will be entered to win roundtrip airfare, hotel accommodations and tickets to see the game, which is happening on Sunday, February 12th at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Winners also get a 500-dollar gift card for expenses. An appointment to donate can be set up by visiting redcrossblood.org. Locally, the next few blood drives will be held at Northgate Free Methodist Church on Saturday, January 28th from 8am until 2:00pm and Thursday, February 2nd from 1:00pm until 6:00pm. And also on Thursday, February 2nd, at the New York State School for the Blind, from 10am until 3:00pm. Additional information is available by following this link:

https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?order=DATE&range=10&zipSponsor=14020

Wireless carrier T-Mobile announced that an unidentified malicious intruder breached its network late in November, and stole data on 37 million customers; including addresses, phone numbers and dates of birth. Based on information gathered through their own internal investigation, the theft did not include passwords, personal identification numbers, bank account or credit card information, Social Security numbers or other government IDs. The company has been hacked multiple times in recent years. Executives at T-Mobile said it’s not expected this latest breach will have material impact on its operations but does raise questions about management’s cyber governance and could alienate customers in addition to invite scrutiny by the Federal Communications Commission and other regulators.

The Powerball jackpot just keeps growing and lottery players are going to be lining up to buy their tickets so they can have a shot at winning a big prize. Because no one won on Wednesday, the jackpot for tomorrow night’s drawing will be at least $473,000,000 (million). The drawing will be streamed live online at powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

Wyoming County is under a winter weather advisory till Saturday morning with the national weather service expecting 3-6 inches of snow coming down.  Periods of snow will result in snow covered roads and limited visibilities. Slow down and use caution while driving. 

Jim Owen, known as the mayor of Redfield Parkway, passed away on Thursday.  Owen was known as a positive figure in the community with an infectious positivity.  In a 2015 interview over WBTA Owen talked about the history of Redfield.  Parkway and the origin of the street in 1912.  WBTA will devote our entire Genesee Life program with Lucine Kauffman as a  tribute to Jim Owen. The program airs this Sunday morning at 8:30 and can be streamed right now on the Genesee Life page of our website, WBTAi.com

A report of a man with a handgun walking on St. Paul Street prompted a lockout at Robert Clemente School No. 8 Thursday morning, according to police.  A driver called 911 and reported a man walking with a gun outside the school at 10:10 a.m. but was unable to find the man.  Police said the school was on lockout until officers completed checking the area.  The Rochester City School District said it went into a brief lockout due to “suspicious activity in the neighborhood.”

The City of Batavia is weighing raising the tax cap again.  City Manager Rachel Tabelski cited the rising prices of diesel, health care, and wages as a reason for asking the City to override the state regulated tax cap this year.  Batavia City Council members voted to override the state’s 2 percent property tax cap just two years ago, passing a 7.5 percent property tax increase as part of the City’s 2020-21 budget.  Tabelski is to provide a budget presentation and Council is expected to review and discuss her recommendations during its conference session next week. The session is set for 7 p.m. Monday in the Council Board Room at City Hall.

Governor Hochul has joined with the federal Consumer Product Safety Board in the idea of taking away gas stoves.  New York State expects its entire climate plan to cost around $270 billion to implement, and there are also major goals to include reducing carbon emissions by 2030 and part of that is the discussion around natural gas and gas burning kitchen appliances.  Governor Kathy Hochul is pushing for a plan that would end the sale of fossil fuel-powered heating equipment starting in 2030 while putting an end to installing gas-burning appliances for new homes in 2025.  This phase-out is now receiving pushback from the Erie County Legislature. The legislature unanimously passed a resolution Thursday that opposes the governor’s ban.

Gov. Hochul announced Thursday that 478,000 residential customers and 56,000 small businesses across the state will receive $672 million in assistance to pay off past-due utility bills.  The debt-forgiveness program will not only provide financial relief to customers, but it will also help avoid termination of service for many New Yorkers.  The one-time credits will provide relief to these customers for the period through May 1, 2022.  In an initiative separate from the Thursday announcement, Hochul also announced $200 million in relief for electric bills as a discount to over 800,000 New Yorkers making under $75,000 who weren’t eligible for the State’s current utility discount program.

The Buffalo Sabres broke their 2 game losing streak with an overtime goal 12 seconds in against the New York Islanders Thursday night 3 to 2.  Dylan Cozens scored the game winning goal after Islanders Goalie Ilya Sorokin made 42 saves during the game.  The Islanders only shot 24 times against Ukko Pekka Luukkonen.  Victor Olofsson and Alex Tuch scored for Buffalo.  The Sabres will take on the Anaheim Ducks at the Keybank Center in a matinee game on Saturday at 12:30pm.  

D’Mario Caesar

A Buffalo man is facing up to 15 years in prison for his role in a deadly hit-and-run that happened more than five years ago. Yesterday, a jury found 36-year-old D’Mario Caesar guilty of striking a pedestrian who was crossing the street near Bailey Avenue in Buffalo back in July 2017. The victim, who was later identified as 31-year-old Brandyn Mallory, passed away due to his injuries at Erie County Medical Center. Caesar will be sentenced in March and is behind bars without bail.

Brenda Wells

Gates police are still trying to track down the driver who was involved in a deadly hit-and-run in their community. They say 55-year-old Brenda Wells of Hilton was struck Sunday night on Elmgrove Road near a YMCA, in Gates. She was rushed to a nearby hospital but passed away due to her injuries on Tuesday. Police have found the vehicle that hit her and the investigation continues. (Police are asking anyone with information to contact them at 585-247-2262.)

Solar panels – file photo

A nearly 21 acre solar farm has been proposed to the Town of Batavia to be located at 7755 Oak Orchard Drive (Route 98). The property is owned by Call Farms and the portion required for the project would be leased. The parcel is presently being used as farmland, with some forested areas. The company developing the project is New Leaf Energy and is seeking a special use permit to install the 5-megawatt solar system. A public hearing about the proposal is scheduled for March 7th at Town Hall.

140 Harbor Street, Wilson NY (photo from Zillow website)

A 5-year-old boy was critically injured with burns in a residential house fire in Wilson. Niagara County Sheriff’s tell us a 35-year-old man was also injured in the fire at 140 Harbor Street. A 41-year-old woman was uninjured and accompanied her son to Oishei Children’s Hospital. Three dogs were rescued by deputies from the fire and given to neighbors for safekeeping at the owner’s request. There is no property damage estimate available at this time and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

67-year-old Amish farmer Samuel Girod of Fillmore has been arrested and charged with felony predatory sexual assault of a child, punishable by up to 25 years in prison. He had been undergoing treatment at an Amish and Plain-sect sexual rehabilitation center after his arrest for molesting a child but now faces more serious charges. An investigation revealed Girod had subjected a child of 13 with sexual contact for many years. Girod was committed to Allegany County Jail but was released after posting $20,000 bail. The case has lingered there while Girod sought treatment at the Pennsylvania center. Troopers arrested him on the new charges when he showed up for a court date earlier this month. He was arraigned on the new charges but no additional bail was set and Girod was released. Girod’s arrest comes at a time when sex abuse among Plain-sect communities has become more openly discussed. Various investigations over the course of years has revealed sex abuse, incest in particular, is seldom reported and that men are rarely prosecuted. Many are allowed to attend treatment centers such as Whispering Hope, located in Newville, Pennsylvania, in return for lighter sentences. Whispering Hope opened in 2001 and is private, with no actual doctors or trained therapists.

Attorney General Letitia James

State Attorney General Letitia James has wrapped up her latest visit to the region where she discussed the importance of people in the area having access to mental health care. James and other leaders gathered at the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library yesterday to hear from both health care workers and individuals who have lost family members who suffered from mental health issues. James said that the state’s entire mental health system is being examined and that the necessary changes will be made. If you or anyone else is having mental health issues, help is available by calling 716-834-3131.

Firefighters battling a blaze (file photo)

The state’s Office of Fire Prevention and Control is beginning new outreach efforts to protect firefighters and their families from the threat of cancer. One goal of this initiative is to raise awareness among members of the fire service about how they can develop protocols for cancer prevention. Data shows firefighters are at a higher risk of getting cancer due to the toxins they are exposed to at the scene of emergencies. If their gear is not decontaminated properly, they might expose family members to harmful chemicals.

Rush-Henrietta Senior High School (file photo)

Officials at Rush-Henrietta High School say several students have been suspended following a recent fight on campus. The incident happened this past Friday and was started by a student in the district who attends an alternative school and wasn’t supposed to be in the building. There are now Monroe County Sheriff’s deputies posted at the school when students arrive and leave. And the district is looking into whether any policy changes need to be made to prevent something like this from happening again.

Negative Covid test result

According to the latest report from the state, the spread COVID-19 is on the decline in our region. Currently, the seven-day average infection rate is sitting at 6.35%. At this time last week, the average infection rate was at 6.74%. While fewer people are testing positive for the illness, anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated against the virus is urged to get their shot to help prevent another spike in cases.

Just putting my two cents in…

Gas prices keep climbing. According to Triple A today, the national average price for regular is $3.38 a gallon. That’s a penny higher than yesterday and 9 cents higher than a week ago. The state average is at $3.47. In Batavia, we’re paying $3.37; up 2 cents from yesterday but down two cents from a month ago.

Damar Hamlin visits a Bills practice – January 14, 2023

Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott says Damar Hamlin has been visiting the team’s facility in Orchard Park on an almost daily basis. Hamlin is still recovering after going into cardiac arrest during a game between the Bills and Cincinnati Bengals earlier this month. McDermott says Hamlin has been focused on trying to get back into a routine so he can continue his road towards being himself again. There’s no word if Hamlin will be at the Bills’ home playoff game against the Bengals on Sunday.

Ryan Miller

The Buffalo Sabres are going to retire the number of goaltender Ryan Miller ahead of the team’s game against the New York Islanders tonight. A sold-out crowd is expected and fans who are going to the contest at KeyBank Center are urged to be in their seats before the ceremony starts at 6:00pm. Miller was a member of the Sabres for over a decade and is the franchise’s all-time leader in games played by a goaltender as well as wins and saves. Face-off for the game between the Sabres and Islanders is set for 7:30.

There is a winter weather advisory in effect for Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties till 3 this afternoon.  Freezing rain can cause ice accumulations of up to a tenth of an inch on the roads and other surfaces.  Plan for the roads to be slippery mostly in the morning.  Slow down especially on turns and give extra room for stopping between vehicles.  

The 12th Annual Shooting for a Cure event at the Pembroke High School is set for February 3rd at 7pm.  The girls basketball team has raised over 227,000 dollars in support of Roswell Park in their past 11 games.  Admission is free for the Pembroke, Oakfield Alabama game and the money will be raised by selling raffle tickets, concessions sales and apparel.  You can also make donations through their website by following the link at WBTAi.com.  http://give.roswellpark.org/goto/shooting-for-a-cure-12

In addition to the apparel sale, Can Jam Redemption Center in Corfu has partnered with Shooting For A Cure! From today, up through February 3rd, you can donate your bottle and can return slips in support of cancer research at Roswell Park. When you bring in your returns, just let them know that you’d like to donate your slip to our Shooting For A Cure! Mission.  All of the proceeds will benefit cancer research at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. 

The 19th Annual Agriculture Dinner at the Alexander Fire Hall will take place on March 25th at 6pm.  The dinner will be made by Culinary Arts students from the Batavia Career and Technical Education Center using ingredients from 10 local farms.  This annual event is a celebration of Genesee County’s #1 Industry.  The dinner is open to the public but there are only 400 tickets.  The tickets cost 30 dollars each or a table of 10 for 275.  To get the registration information go to www.geneseeny.com. 

The state’s Office of Fire Prevention and Control is beginning new outreach efforts to protect firefighters and their families from the threat of cancer. One goal of this initiative is to raise awareness among members of the fire service about how they can develop protocols for cancer prevention. Data shows firefighters are at a higher risk of getting cancer due to the toxins they are exposed to at the scene of emergencies. If their gear is not decontaminated properly, they might expose family members to harmful chemicals.

Staff of the Western New York Independent Living Family of Agencies are among the presenters at the virtual LiveOn NY’s 33rd Annual Conference on Aging and Sponsor Expo, “Building the Future Together”  On the opening Day, Wednesday January 25, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, Independent Living of the Genesee Region  Director Rae Frank will lead the first of 14 workshops: “Workshop 1: Impacting the Community and Adapting to the Times”, featuring presenters from ILGR in Batavia, Mental Health Peer Connection and the Independent Living Center, both in Buffalo.  People interested in attending can follow the link on WBTAi.com: https://www.tfaforms.com/5016662  The cost to participate in this three-day virtual event is $90 for LiveOn NY members, $140 for non-members.

The Monthly Batavia Sports Card and Collectible Show is back at Quality Inn starting on January 22nd.  The show runs from 10 am to 3pm and is free to attend.  About 60 vendors with sports cards, autographs, supplies, hobby boxes and other collectibles will be there with their wares.  If you have questions you can call 585 694 0111.  

Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott says Damar Hamlin has been visiting the team’s facility in Orchard Park on an almost daily basis. Hamlin is still recovering after going into cardiac arrest during a game between the Bills and Cincinnati Bengals earlier this month. McDermott says Hamlin has been focused on trying to get back into a routine so he can continue his road towards being himself again. There’s no word if Hamlin will be at the Bills’ home playoff game against the Bengals on Sunday.

The Buffalo Sabres are going to retire the number of goaltender Ryan Miller ahead of the team’s game against the New York Islanders tonight. A sold-out crowd is expected and fans who are going to the contest at KeyBank Center are urged to be in their seats before the ceremony starts at six p-m. Miller was a member of the Sabres for over a decade and is the franchise’s all-time leader in games played by a goaltender as well as wins and saves. Face-off for the game between the Sabres and Islanders is set for seven-30 p-m.

John Sumlin III

43-year-old John Sumlin III of Batavia, in jail for allegedly breaking into a woman’s residence and holding a knife against her neck, has now been indicted for calling the woman while in jail. Earlier charges include first-degree burglary, felony criminal mischief, assault and menacing. And now, felony criminal contempt of court has been added to the list for violating an order of protection. Sumlin remains in jail.

Lisa Bors

Lisa Bors has been hired as ARC GLOW’s new public relations director. She has twenty years’ experience in the field. Bors reflected that Arc GLOW is a family-driven organization, empowering people with disabilities of all ages to be valued members of the community. She added she looks forward to increasing community awareness and private support of the organization.

Wyoming County officials say the closure of the NYS Thruway during major winter storms puts drivers at a higher risk of crashing. They’re asking New York State officials to review the decision to close the Thruway during the November lake-effect snowstorm. This is largely because of steep and rolling hills and turns that are characteristic of county roads there and create scary travel and hazardous conditions. During the storm on November 18th, more than 20 tractor-trailer incidents were documented. County officials say it will take more collaboration from Albany and local authorities to find a solution because it is not one size fits all for each storm.

Hector LaSalle

Governor Hochul’s nominee to be the next Chief Judge of the State Court of Appeals will have a hearing in Albany today. Hector LaSalle will be appearing in front of members of the Senate Judiciary Committee for his confirmation hearing. LaSalle’s nomination has drawn criticism from lawmakers, advocates, and labor leaders who have concerns about his judicial record. The governor says regardless of how today’s hearing goes; LaSalle’s nomination needs to be voted on by the full Senate.

TSA agent – file photo

A new report from the Transportation Security Administration shows the number of guns detected at Upstate New York airport security checkpoints increased last year. During routine screenings, TSA officers spotted 23 weapons in 2022, a total that includes three at Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport. In 2021, there were 19 handguns caught at upstate airports. As a reminder, passengers who bring firearms to a security checkpoint may face criminal charges as well as civil penalties from the TSA.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta

Tickets for a potential neutral-site AFC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta are on sale, available today and tomorrow for all season ticket holders for both teams who previously opted in to purchase AFC Championship Game tickets. The contest is set for Sunday, January 29th and would involve the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs. All other fans will have to participate in a pre-sale that begins at 10:00am Friday. However, both teams would need to win their respective playoff games this weekend for that to happen. There will be a six-ticket limit for all purchases and should the game not take place in Atlanta, all of those tickets would be refunded.

Peyton Krebs (file photo)

The Buffalo Sabres are now on a two-game losing streak after suffering a tough defeat on the road in the Windy City. Tage Thompson, Peyton Krebs, and Victor Olofsson had goal each but the Sabres still fell to the Chicago Blackhawks 4-3 in overtime at the United Center last night. Sabres goaltender Craig Anderson gave up four goals on the 26 shots that he faced in the contest. Buffalo’s next game is tomorrow night at home against the New York Islanders with face-off at 7:30.

Chicago on stage (2022)

A rock group that’s sold millions of albums and been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is bringing its new tour to the area later this year. Chicago will take the stage at Kodak Center in Rochester on Wednesday, June 21st. The band is known for several huge hits including “You’re the Inspiration,” “25 or 6 to 4,” “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day,” “Color My World,” and “Make Me Smile.” Tickets for the show go on sale this Friday at 10:00am at the box office or through Ticketmaster.

Hey, I think I’m related to them…

Tonight’s Powerball jackpot is up to an estimated $439,000,000 (million). The lump-sum payout is more than $237 million, before taxes. The drawing is at 11:00 tonight. Please play responsibly.

The Better Business Bureau of Upstate NY is warning people of a new scam involving parking tickets.  This scam has been used in multiple cities across the US and involves a scammer using a machine that prints fake parking tickets and then placing them on the windshields of people, usually near events or hotels.  The ticket looks real and usually has a number to call and pay or a website or QR code.  Sending the money not only gives the scammers your money, it also gives them your financial information.  These scammers might target out of towners to get people who will be fooled into thinking they are parked illegally.  Some tips to avoid getting caught in this scam are: know the parking laws where you are, do an internet search for the city or towns parking ticket payment locations, see if the payment information is the same as the city, and only pay tickets by credit card if possible so you can get the charges reversed later if its a scam.

The New York State Department of Health released its county opioid quarterly report, which showed a 14% increase in 2021 opioid overdose deaths compared to 2020.  Important findings that compare the 2021 to 2020 data include the following: there were 4,766 deaths in 2021, a 12.6% increase in outpatient Emergency Department visits due to opioid overdoses, with 10,430 visits in 2021,  and a 30.2% increase in outpatient Emergency Department visits due to opioid overdoses outside of heroin, including illicitly produced opioids like fentanyl, there were 5,137 visits in 2021.  Naloxone kits are available and the GCASA encourages businesses and community organizations to install a emergency Narcan station.

On Jan. 10, the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors voted to send a resolution that called for New York State officials to review the decision to close the Thruway during the November lake-effect snowstorm.  Rebecca Ryan, who serves as the Chairman of the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors, said, “Our geography is rolling hills and turns. When I say rolling I mean steep hills going down.”  Ryan says county roads were scary to travel during the last two snow storms.  That is why the county wrote up a resolution for state officials, outlining why the closure of the thruway put more people at risk in Wyoming County.  During the storm on Nov. 18, more than 20 tractor-trailer incidents were documented, and EMS Director Brian Meyers says it will take more collaboration from Albany and local authorities to find a solution because it is not one size fits all for each storm.

This month is Radon Action Month, an annual time to check your home for Radon gas.   Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that has no smell, taste or color. When radon forms from the breakdown of uranium found in soil, it can enter a home through cracks in the walls, basement floors, foundations and other openings.  Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer and claims the lives of approximately 21,000 Americans each year.  Testing your home with a short-term radon test kit is a quick and easy way to determine if there are high levels of radon present in your home. The test kits are easy to use and contain basic instructions on how to receive the most accurate results when testing your home for radon.  For more details or to seek a radon test kit, call the Genesee County Health Department at (585) 344-2580 ext. 5555.

John Roth has been named Chief Operating Officer of Pegula Sports & Entertainment and the Buffalo Sabres.  According to the Sabres, Roth worked at Fidelity Investments for the past 24 years as an investor and served as portfolio manager of the Fidelity New Millennium and Fidelity Mid-Cap Stock Fund and as co-manager of Fidelity Advisor New Insights Fund.  The Sabres said he will assume day-to-day leadership of the PSE offices and the business side of the Sabres.

The NFL has released ticket details for the potential AFC Championship Game between the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs that would be played at a neutral site.  If the Bills and Chiefs both win their divisional playoff games this weekend, they would meet Jan. 29 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.  Season ticket holders for both teams who previously opted in to purchase AFC Championship Game tickets will be contacted and have exclusive pre-sale access beginning Wednesday at 10 a.m.  All other fans will have to participate in a pre-sale that begins at 10 a.m. Friday.

Louis Coleman

50-year-old Louis Coleman of Batavia has been sentenced to two years in state prison and 3 years of post-release supervision. He pleaded guilty to criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell. Coleman sold methamphetamine to an undercover Wyoming County Drug Task Force agent. He has an extensive criminal history that includes drug and burglary-related arrests and still has a felony drug case pending in Livingston County. This is Coleman’s fourth state prison term.

Paul Mioducki

44-year-old Paul Mioducki of Bennington has been sentenced to two, 2 to 6 year terms in jail and five years’ probation. He had been given a break the first time he was caught and arrested for stealing more than $16,000 from his parents. However, during this period of probation during which he was to pay his parents back, Mioducki was caught stealing $41,000 more from his parents through the use of a debit card and forged checks. During his probation, he had also been ordered to report using drugs and to attend substance abuse treatment. Mioducki did neither; and was subsequently sentenced.

Nicholas Keiffer

A State Police investigation into a fatal motorcycle accident, following a high-speed pursuit by a sheriff’s deputy in Batavia and Stafford, has cleared the deputy of any fault in the incident. This, from a report obtained by our news partner, The Batavian. On July 6th, 26-year-old Nicholas Keiffer of West Center Street, Medina, lost control of his 2001 Kawasaki Ninja on Route 63 as he entered a curve in the roadway just north of Fargo Road after fleeing an attempted traffic stop by Deputy Zachary Hoy. Keiffer’s speed reached 150 miles per hour; once Deputy Hoy lost sight of Keiffer, he turned off his emergency lights and reduced his speed. He later found Keiffer, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Here is a direct link to the full story:

https://www.thebatavian.com/howard-b-owens/deputy-cleared-in-fatal-motorcycle-crash-in-stafford-after-chase-in-july/626325

Lyell Avenue Rochester Burger King

Rochester police have released the name of the man who was shot and killed at Burger King over the weekend. On Saturday night, 19-year-old Sideic Robinson was leaving his job at the fast food restaurant on Lyell Avenue when he was hit by gunfire and later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. Police are still trying to determine a motive for the crime. They’re asking anyone with information to come forward immediately.

Daiquan Gray

A man who was already behind bars at the Erie County Correctional Facility in Alden is in more legal trouble after being accused of damaging a deputy’s body camera. Deputies were dealing with an altercation at the facility when the body camera fell to the ground. That is when 28-year-old Daiquan Gray kicked the device and he’s been charged with criminal mischief. Gray was arrested for robbery last year and will remain at the facility pending his arraignment.

Ah-chooo!

Flu season is in full swing, and some new data shows one Finger Lakes region county is being hit harder by the virus than others. According to the updated New York State Flu Tracker, 333 Monroe County residents contracted the illness between December 31st and January 7th. Ontario County had the second highest number of new cases in that same time period with 77. Since flu season started in October, 293,541 people in the Empire State have tested positive for the virus.

Alex Tuch celebrates hat trick with Rasmus Dahlin during Calgary Flames games – 10/20/22

The Buffalo Sabres have come up short in their bid to win a second straight game after being beaten at home. Alex Tuch scored the lone goal for Buffalo as his team was defeated by the Florida Panthers 4-1 at KeyBank Center yesterday. Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen faced 33 shots in the game and stopped 30 of them. Buffalo’s next game is tonight when they visit the Chicago Blackhawks; the puck drops at 8:30.

The Buffalo Bills will host the Cincinnati Bengals at Highmark Stadium Sunday at 3 p.m. in the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs and the ticket prices are rather high. As of Monday afternoon on the VIPTIX website, a single ticket in the upper deck of Highmark Stadium would cost you around $245 dollars. Prices were about the same on Stubhub and Ticketmaster. The best time to buy tickets is historically in the middle of the week.

Please play responsibly (file photo)

As has been the case for the last several weeks, no one has won the Powerball jackpot, meaning there is going to be even more money up for grabs in the next drawing. The top prize for the popular lottery game last night was $416,000,000, but it’s now grown to $439,000. There has not been a Powerball winner since November. The next drawing is set for tomorrow night. Please play responsibly.

A nun in Buffalo thwarted 2 thieves at the Response to Love Center.  Sister Mary Johnice says Saturday morning around 7:30 was the time the incident occurred.  She came outside after hearing a noise to find two men climbing a ladder to attempt to steal the center’s gutters and downspout, most likely hoping to make a quick buck selling them to a scrapyard.  She kicked the ladder and caused it to fall down with the men on it, they ran away leaving the ladder behind.  She says too bad for them they were trying to steal aluminum which would have given them next to nothing anyway.  The center posted security video and pictures of the two men online and gave the information to the police.  

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney along with all New York Republicans in congress introduced the Stop Enabling Repeat Violence and Endangering Our Communities Act on Monday.  The SERVE Act will hold repeat offenders accountable and stop what they call the “revolving door that keeps criminals on our streets.”  They plan this act to combat the cashless bail that has been law in New York and several other states.  It would authorize 10 million dollars  in anti-recidivism grant funding in states where the dangerousness of the criminal is considered in determining bail.  

Crossroads House is holding their Red Carpet Gala on January 28th to fundraise for the hospice center.  The Gala will be held at Batavia Downs.  A dinner and auction will be provided to attendees.  Auction items include spa packages, romantic getaways, a recliner, and diamond earrings, just to name a few, Director of Development Vicki Johnson said.  Tickets for the gala dinner are available for $75 each and include dinner, entertainment, three types of auctions, a 5X7 photo for each couple or group, and $15 Free Play. Doors open at 5 p.m.  A VIP sponsorship is $1,000 for a table of eight, and also includes an hour of open bar at 4 p.m., special seating and company advertising throughout the evening.  The event ticket deadline is Friday.  Anyone, attending or not, can purchase a star to line the red carpet walk with the name of a person who has been a bright light in their life.  Stars are 25 dollars each and can be bought at Crossroads house or online at crossroadshouse.com.  

Tonawanda Valley Federal Credit Union’s drive thru is closed after a water pipe burst in the ceiling of the back offices, flooding the area and causing damage to the drive thru section of the Credit Union.  The leak happened during the winter storm over Christmas weekend.  The drive thru was shut down.  The Lobby is still available to customers.  The ATM is back in service but the construction work will be ongoing until at least april.  

The Buffalo Sabres couldn’t overcome the Florida Panthers in their Monday matinee game.  The Panthers beat the Sabres on their home ice 4 to 1.  Alex Tuch scored the lone goal for Buffalo.  This is the 4th straight loss for the Sabres on their home ice.  The Sabres will have a chance to bounce back Tuesday night as they travel to Chicago for an 8:30 p.m. matchup with the Blackhawks.

The Buffalo Bills will host the Cincinnati Bengals at Highmark Stadium Sunday at 3 p.m. in the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs and the ticket prices are rather high.  As of Monday afternoon on the VIPTIX website, a single ticket in the upper deck of Highmark Stadium would cost you around $245 dollars.  Prices were about the same on Stubhub and Ticketmaster.  The best time to buy tickets is historically in the middle of the week. 

Onondaga County Courthouse – Syracuse

The New York State Department of Health will be reviewing options following a state Supreme Court decision that struck down a statewide mandate requiring health care workers to be vaccinated against COVID-19. It was decided that Governor Hochul and the state department overstepped their authority by mandating a vaccine that’s not included in state public health law. The judge instead sided with the group, Medical Professionals for Informed Consent, a group of medical workers impacted by the vaccination mandate. The mandate protects people most at-risk for serious symptoms and the people who care for them. The State Health Department reportedly strongly disagrees with the court’s decision.

Martin Luther King, Jr.

One day after what would’ve been his 94th birthday, the nation is observing Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Expect to find federal and county offices closed. Banks will also be closed and there will be no regular mail delivery.

Jordan Difilippo

29-year-old Jordan Difilippo of Pembroke is charged with sex offender failing to report a change of address or status after allegedly failing to disclose an email address to the Probation Department last week. Difilippo was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released on an appearance ticket; he’ll return to Batavia City Court on February 9th.

City firefighters issued a press release this morning, in which they provided their total number of calls for 2022: They responded to 2669 alarms, of which 1940 were for emergency medical services. There were 59 fires and 51 motor vehicle accidents. There were also 308 fire or carbon monoxide alarm activations. Here is an entire summary of the calls:

Total alarms for 2022:

Fires, 59
Overpressure Rupture, Explosion, Overheating, 15
Emergency Medical Services, 1,940
Motor Vehicle Accidents, 51
Pedestrian Struck, 14
Extrication (vehicle, machinery, building), 2
Elevator Rescue, 4
Ice/Swift Water Rescue. 2
Hazardous Conditions, 80
Service Calls, 111
Good Intent Calls, 126
Fire / Carbon Monoxide Alarm Activations, 308
Severe Weather, 2
Special Incident Type, 11
Mutual Given, 23
Mutual Received, 15
Fire Prevention

54-year-old Paul Crawford of Batavia is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance and operating a vehicle with a suspended registration on Old Meadow Lane in Batavia last Thursday. He was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled in Batavia Town Court on January 25. ALSO: 45-year-old John Gronowski of Cheektowaga was arrested for criminal trespass last Thursday afternoon, for allegedly remaining on the property at Batavia Downs, after previously being told he was no longer allowed to be there. Gronowski was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Burger King, Lyell Avenue – file photo

Rochester police are continuing their investigation into the city’s first homicide since the start of 2023. On Saturday night, a 19-year-old employee of a Burger King restaurant on Lyell Avenue was hit by multiple gunshots as he was leaving work for the evening. The victim, whose name has not been released yet, was pronounced dead after being rushed to a nearby hospital. While the motive remains unknown, police say they believe the victim was the intended target of this attack.

Kensington Avenue, Buffalo – file photo from January 5, 2023

Buffalo police say they’ve made an arrest in connection with a deadly shooting that happened earlier this month. According to police, 28-year-old Jerry Simpson is the person who opened fire on Kensington Avenue January 5th. One man, 36-year-old Jermaine Underwood, was struck by gunfire and died at the scene. A second victim was also shot but is already out of the hospital. Simpson is facing multiple charges including murder and assault.

Allen and Wilkins (Dolphins) briefly mix it up – 1/16/23

The Buffalo Bills are one step closer to reaching the Super Bowl after advancing out of the first round of the NFL playoffs. Josh Allen threw for over 350 yards and tossed three touchdowns as the Bills hung on to beat the Miami Dolphins 34 to 31 at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park yesterday. Running back James Cook also had a rushing score for the Bills. Up next for Buffalo is a home contest against the Cincinnati Bengals this Sunday at 3:00.

“Gold” drips from a gas pump

Gas prices continue to be unsure which direction to move. According to Triple A today, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas across the state is $3.44. The national average is $3.31. And in Batavia, we’re paying $3.33 a gallon; that’s up 2 cents from a week ago but down 9 cents from a month ago.

Jeff Skinner – file photo

The Buffalo Sabres are back on home ice today as they look to make it back-to-back victories. The Sabres are hosting the Florida Panthers at KeyBank Center in Buffalo. The Sabres are coming off of a 5-3 road win over the Nashville Predators on Saturday; Jeff Skinner, Dylan Cozens, Victor Olofsson, Kyle Okposo and Jack Quinn all scored for Buffalo. The Sabres are in fourth place in the Atlantic Division with 44 points.

Stephen King – file photo

The over $1,300,000,000 (billion) Mega Millions jackpot was won by someone in Maine (making that individual more wealthy than Maine’s famous resident, Stephen King!), but there is still one pretty large lottery prize that’s going to be up for grabs tonight. The Powerball has risen to $416,000,000 (million) after no one picked all the winning numbers for Saturday night’s drawing. The odds of getting all six numbers right is an astronomical one in more than 292,000,000 (million). To see the drawing live, visit powerball.com.

A Rochester teen Burger King employee is dead after a shooting on Lyell Ave Saturday around 7:40pm.  The investigation found that the employee was shot inside the restaurant while he was leaving work for the evening.  While the motive remains unknown, police say they believe the victim was the intended target of this attack.  This marks the first homicide in the City of Rochester in 2023.

Want an omelet?  It’ll cost you.  The price of eggs is nearly double what it used to be just a couple months ago and many people are asking why?  Jeffery Ball, the owner of Catch A Torri Farms, says it is due to the Bird Flu outbreak that the Centers for Disease Control reports have resulted in the deaths of nearly 50 million birds including chickens.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the price of a dozen eggs has jumped from $1.82 last year to now $3.60.  At Walmart in Batavia a dozen store brand eggs runs 5.70 while at Tops they are 5.59.

A company wants to build a 100 acre distribution center just off i 90 in Pembroke.  Horizon Acres Associations of Spring Valley is the lead applicant. Geis Companies, of Ohio, is the developer. Metzger Civil Engineering presented the application for a Site Plan Review to the Genesee County Planning Board.  They want to build across from the Flying J off exit 48.  The hope is that this 6 warehouse facility will employ over 400 people and bring big businesses that are looking for hubs with easy access to the I-90 corridor.  The cost of the project is 142 million dollars.

Buffalo City Hall is getting a new look for a new playoff year.  Mayor Byron Brown, unveiled newly designed Bills banners in Niagara Square Saturday afternoon.  This year’s banners pay tribute to Damar Hamlin, Bills Mafia and your AFC East champion Buffalo Bills.  It’s a new twist to a recent tradition at one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.  A lot of people take advantage of this selfie station to take pictures And show their support for the Buffalo Bills on their favorite social media pages.

The Buffalo Bills will move on to the next game in the playoffs after beating the Dolphins 34 to 31 in a close fought game at Highmark Stadium.  The Bills started off with 2 touchdowns but the Dolphins were able to claw their way back to the lead in the second half.  Several fumbles and interceptions later and the Bills were back on top at the end.  With the win the Bills will be hosting the AFC Divisional game next week. 

The Buffalo Sabres broke their losing streak on Saturday night by beating the Nashville Predators 5 to 3.  Jeff Skinner, Dylan Cozens, Victor Olofsson, Kyle Okposo and Jack Quinn all scored for Buffalo.  They’ll be back at the KeyBank Center this afternoon for a showdown with the Florida Panthers. Puck drop is at 1:00 p.m.

Genesee County Sheriffs are looking for a few unsung heroes to take on the much needed job of being a dispatcher for the county.  There are 3 full time openings for  Emergency Services Dispatchers.  In order to be considered for this position, applicants must take the civil service exam, which is only given approximately every two years.  This exam is available till January 25th and has been opened up to allow people from Genesee, Erie, Livingston, Monroe, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties to apply.  Hourly salary is 22.55-28.81.  The top 3 scores in the exam are selected and new hires get 16 weeks paid training before starting. 

Its most downhill ski or snowboard enthusiasts worst nightmare, falling from the chairlift.  And that’s exactly what happened to a 7 year old boy at Bristol Mountain on Thursday at around 7 pm.  He fell about 30 feet and suffered back pain and injuries to his face.  Bristol Mountain Ski Patrol was there within minutes and he was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital with non life threatening injuries.  

The man accused of murdering his parents and attempting to kill a third person in their home in Henrietta on Wednesday has a long history of violence.  39 year old Rajab Banahi has been convicted for choking a person till they couldn’t breathe in 2012, convicted of 3rd degree assault for kicking, punching and headbutting people at U of R and Strong Memorial Hospital in 2015, and 3rd degree assault for attempting to break into his parents home in 2021.  His father took out an order of protection against him.  He had just been released from a year in jail for assaulting an employee at Strong when he allegedly committed the murders.  

Thanks to generous people coming out on December 3rd to bring items for the Stuff the Cruiser event, more than 450 local children were provided with gifts this past Christmas.  An online post made by the department gave nods of credit for the “great work by the representatives of the Genesee County Probation Department, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Genesee County Department of Social Services for their help in coordinating this event.”

These kids have artistic talent and want to show it off.  Batavia City Schools art exhibit at GO ART! will be kicking off January 25th from 5 to 7 pm.  The display will be up till February 24th and show off the art of 22 students grade 9 through 12.  There are many styles and mediums to appreciate.  Go Art! Opens at 11 on Wednesday-Friday and 9 on Saturdays.

Joshua Sumeriski

19-year-old Joshua Sumeriski of Caledonia initially avoided a state prison term for stealing cars in three counties but has now been sentenced to prison for violating probation. Last summer, he stole vehicles in Cattaraugus, Livingston and Genesee Counties, including one in Batavia. The cars were all recovered and Sumeriski has been sentenced to serve 18 months to four years in prison.

43-year-old Christopher Brown of Alexander has been convicted of distribution of child pornography and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Brown concealed a camera in a bathroom for the purpose of recording a video of a naked minor victim. He then utilized a peer-to-peer network on the Internet to download and distribute a file containing a video depicting a pre-pubescent female. Investigators also found a DVD with recordings of the minor victim and 550 images and 100 videos of child pornography. They also found five firearms, which Brown was legally prohibited to have. He was sentenced to serve 150 months in prison.

File photo of man shoveling snow

There is a winter weather advisory for Orleans county in effect until 4:00am early tomorrow. The National Weather Service is predicting up to 5 inches of snow to fall and for the roads to be slick. There may be brief periods of whiteout conditions, as well.

Rochester police are still on the lookout for the suspect who stole a vehicle that had two children inside of it. The mother of the three-year-old and six-year-old left her kids unattended in the running vehicle when she went into a store in the area of Lake and Phelps Avenues yesterday. The vehicle was then taken before later being found on Dempsey Place. Fortunately, the children weren’t hurt.

The Buffalo Bills are going to be taking the field for the first round of the NFL playoffs this weekend against a very familiar opponent. The Bills are hosting their AFC East rivals the Miami Dolphins at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. These teams played each other twice during the regular season with the Bills and Dolphins each winning one game. Kickoff for Sunday’s contest is set for 1:00.

Victor Oloffson (file photo)

The losing streak of the Buffalo Sabres has now hit three games after the team once again came up short on home ice. Victor Olofsson and Tyson Jost each scored but the Sabres still fell to the Winnipeg Jets four-to-two at KeyBank Center last night. Sabres goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen stopped 23 of the 26 shots he faced in the contest. Up next for Buffalo is a road game against the Nashville Predators tomorrow night.

Please play responsibly.

The second largest jackpot in Mega Millions history is up for grabs tonight and lottery players will be lining up to buy their tickets in hopes of claiming the huge prize. The jackpot has risen to $1,500,000,000 (one and a half billion) after no one won Tuesday. And, the top prize for tomorrow’s Powerball game is now $404,000,000. Both drawings will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

Wegmans will be hosting a virtual hiring event next week as the popular supermarket chain looks to fill hundreds of entry-level positions at its stores. The event is happening on Wednesday, January 18th, from 10:00am until 6:00pm and both part-time and full-time jobs are available. Among the positions that need to be filled are supervisors, shift leaders, and managers in multiple departments. Anyone interested in signing up for the event can do so online at jobs.wegmans.com.

There is a winter weather advisory for Orleans county going from 4am this morning till 4 am Saturday.  The National Weather Service is predicting up to 5 inches of snow to fall and for driving to be slippery.  There may be brief whiteout conditions so remember to slow down and use caution while driving.

Visitors from New York City had their car stolen and it was used in other crimes throughout the day according to Fairport police.  The Chiavettas came to visit their relatives in their 2004 Beige Acura.  They were staying with them overnight when the car was stolen, including a credit card and several personal belongings.  According to Fairport Police chief Matthew Barnes the license plate was reported in other car thefts and several other crimes throughout the day.  The family posted on social media and sleuths posted pictures of their car being used to transport people who were breaking into other cars around Monroe County.  Barnes said police have been seeing an uptick in car thefts the last few weeks.  The Chiavettas said they didn’t lock the car overnight, thinking it would be safer in Fairport than in New York City.

2 small children were kidnapped then reunited with their family.  Rochester City Police responded to the area of Lake Avenue and Phelps Avenue for the report of a vehicle stolen with two young children inside around 3:45 p.m. Wednesday.  Upon arrival, officers confirmed the mother of two children, ages 6 and 3, left her vehicle running as she entered the corner store close to where the vehicle was parked.  During that time, the suspect allegedly entered the vehicle and drove off with both children inside.  Officers immediately began an extensive search of the area.  About 20 minutes later, police located the vehicle on Dempsey Place.  Both children were inside of the vehicle uninjured.  The children have been reunited with their family.  The suspect had fled prior to police arrival. There are currently no suspects in custody.

Governor Hochul was there to announce the opening of the Lake Placid 2023 FISU World University Games Thursday.  The games go through January 22nd and include alpine skiing, curling, biathlon, cross country skiing, figure skating, freestyle and freeski, hockey, speedskating, ski jumping, snowboard and nordic combined.  New York State spent 550 million dollars to renovate the area and complexes over the past several years to get ready for the games.  This is the second largest global winter sports event behind the Olympics.  Tickets for attending live at Whiteface and the sports complexes in Lake Placid are 15 dollars per event.  The games can be watched on ESPN, Fubo, or the International University Sports Federation’s FISU.tv.

According to New York State, mobile sports betting is more popular than predicted. It’s been legal in New York for about a year. Efforts to bring sports betting to New York state began a decade ago. Now, a major milestone for the mobile sports betting industry here in New York state. Revenue has passed the one-billion-dollar mark.  In 2022, New Yorkers placed more than 16 billion dollars in bets through online or mobile sportsbooks. After paying out the winning bets, the state says it earned one point four billion dollars in revenue.  According to officials, the 700-million dollars in state tax revenue generated by mobile sports betting is the highest in the nation.

The Buffalo Bills and Delaware North have added some new items to the Highmark Stadium menus for their game against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.   Topping their culinary announcement is the Hurdle Burger to celebrate Josh Allen’s now signature move of jumping over opposing players.  It is a triple stack turkey burger with peppadew pico and beer cheese fondue.  The turkey is because Allen closed a press conference by saying it was TBT, turkey burger time.  Another player named dish is the Can You Digg It? Chicken sausage patty topped with SHOUT sauce, shredded carrots and blue cheese and a boneless wing on a brioche bun.  There are several other options for Bills fans to enjoy in addition to the normal menu.

The Buffalo Sabres were overflown by the Jets in a 4-2 defeat Thursday night making Buffalo 20 and 18 and 2 for the season.  Victor Olofsson and Tyson Jost scored for Buffalo, and Luukkonen – recalled from Rochester earlier in the day – made 23 saves. The Sabres have lost three in a row and four of six.  Saturday they will be in Nashville to play the Predators at 8pm. 

Melvin Huntley

A Batavia man has been sentenced to at least 35 years in prison. 40-year-old Melvin Huntley has been convicted on the 16 charges he faced, the most serious of which were three counts of predatory sexual assault against a child. If Huntley ever gets out of prison, he will have at least 20 years of post-release supervision. He was found guilty last month following a seven-day trial.

Jamie Dutton

30-year-old Jamie Dutton of Batavia has been indicted on petit larceny charges. He is accused of stealing merchandise from Walmart last August. Dutton has an extensive criminal history. Twice in 2021, he was found not guilty in separate trials for attempted murder and assault. A month after the second trial, Dutton was indicted by a Genesee County grand jury on domestic violence charges and misdemeanor drug possession.

Shane VanName

A Genesee County Grand Jury has indicted Shane VanName, accusing him of the crime of the felony charge of rape after he allegedly engaged in sexual intercourse with another person by forcible compulsion and without their consent, last month in the town of LeRoy. For the same incident, VanName is also accused of sexual abuse in the first degree after allegedly subjecting another person to sexual contact by forcible compulsion.

Jaynalyn Smith

Dennis Houghton

The Niagara County Sheriff tells us that two people have been charged with assault after a 2-year-old boy went into cardiac arrest after ingesting fentanyl. This follows a 9-1-1 call last April reporting an unresponsive 2-year old male. The child was transported to Eastern Niagara Hospital and a criminal investigation was initiated, into the home, parents, and circumstances surrounding the child’s ingestion of fentanyl. The child continues to receive treatment and is recovering. 20-year-old Jaynalyn Smith has been charged with first and second-degree assault and remains in Niagara County Jail in lieu of $100,000 bail. 23-year-old Dustin Houghton is charged with second-degree assault and was released on $5000 bail.

51-year-old Vicki Showler of Alabama, is charged with petit larceny. She is accused of shoplifting at the Dollar General store on North Main Street, Oakfield last week. Showler was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 51st Annual Awards Ceremony, which will be held on Saturday, March 11 at Batavia Downs Gaming. This event honors businesses and individuals for their achievements in business, community service and volunteerism. Tickets are $50.00 per person or a table of 8 for $360.00.
The evening begins at 5:00 with Hors Oeuvres, Entrée Tables & a Cash Bar; no formal sit-down dinner will be served. The Award Program starts at 7:00pm during which dessert and coffee will be served. This year’s honorees are:

Business of the Year: Max Pies Furniture Company, Inc.

Agricultural Business of the Year: Fenton’s Produce LLC
Innovative Business of the Year: Empire Hemp Co. LLC
Special Service Recognition of the Year: Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts
Council (GOART!)
Geneseean of the Year: Norm Argulski

Call Kelly J. Bermingham, at 343-7440, ext. 1026 to make your reservations

The Supreme Court is allowing New York to continue enforcing new gun control measures during an ongoing legal challenge. That means New York’s ban on guns in sensitive areas like schools, parks, and Times Square will remain in place for now. The state is also allowed to require gun license applicants to show good moral character. The Supreme Court denied a request from a group of gun owners to immediately pause the state’s regulations. But, two conservative justices say the case still has merit even though they didn’t intervene.

Unidentified child receives COVID vaccine (file photo)

The latest data from the state shows that slightly fewer residents in our area have been contracting COVID-19 as of late. Right now, the seven day average infection rate is at 6.74%. At this time one week ago, the average infection rate was 6.77%. Experts from county health departments say the latest variant of the virus is spreading very rapidly and they’re urging everyone to take precautions to protect themselves from getting sick.

Damar Hamlin (2021 file photo)

Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills has been released from the hospital and will continue recovering from his recent cardiac arrest at home. Hamlin was rushed to a Cincinnati hospital in critical condition January 2nd after he collapsed during a game between the Bills and Cincinnati Bengals. Hamlin arrived back in this area earlier this week and after he underwent tests, doctors decided he could be discharged. Bills head coach Sean McDermott says it’ll be up to Hamlin to decide if he wants to visit his teammates.

Micah Hyde (file photo)

Jamison Crowder

Buffalo Bills announced the team has activated the practice window for safety Micah Hyde and wide receiver Jamison Crowder. According to Bills head coach Sean McDermott, Hyde and Crowder will both practice Wednesday. They will not play this week but there is a chance they could return in the future if the Bills win Sunday. The Bills are set to return to Highmark Stadium Sunday at 1:00 to take on the Miami Dolphins in the Wild Card round of the NFL Playoffs.

KeyBank Center (file photo)

The Buffalo Sabres are hoping they’ll be able to finish their current homestand with a win tonight and snap a two-game losing streak in the process. The Sabres are hosting the Winnipeg Jets at KeyBank Center. Buffalo is coming off of a disappointing 4-3 loss to the Seattle Kraken on Tuesday night. Face-off for this evening’s contest is set for 7:00.

The New York Gun law that allows the state to ban guns from churches, playgrounds and Times Square was brought in front of the Supreme Court while an appeals court reviewed it.  The Supreme Court, while the issue is being looked at by the appeals court, has decided to allow it to be enforced.  Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas issued a statement saying that the Supreme Court would respect the Federal Appeals Court’s work rather than weighing in on the case.  The case may go before the Supreme Court for a decision as both Justices said it “presents novel and serious questions.”  The law was put into place as a response to the Supreme Court striking down part of New York’s concealed carry application process.  It has been declared unconstitutional by several judges in New York and then appealed.

The City of Rochester may be rethinking their 2020 decision to remove school resource officers from the city schools after the shooting at Franklin Educational Campus on Monday.  Former Police Chief and Mayor Bob Duffy, now head of the chamber of commerce, said that in 1999 a shooting was prevented by having armed officers in place when people were planning to come into the school and open fire.  Officers were removed from the schools in 2020 over anti police sentiment.  Teachers who spoke anonymously said that they would feel much safer if they had School Resource Officers back in the buildings.  

The Genesee county Health Department is looking for information about a dog that bit a person on the corner of St Marks and North Streets in Le Roy Tuesday at 4:30pm.  The dog was described as a brown, pit bull/boxer mix. The owner was walking their dog on a leash and the victim was walking towards the owner. As the victim was walking past the dog, the dog jumped up and bit the victim on their left, upper arm. After the incident, the owner proceeded towards Church Street.  The Health Department wants to ascertain whether the dog has rabies or not.  If you have any information please call 585 344 2580 extension 5555.

A concert that was postponed in November will be held in the next 2 weeks.  The Genesee Valley Wind Ensemble will hold its Fall Concert on January 22nd at 4 pm.  It will be at the Oakfield Alabama High School.  The Ensemble is led by conductor Philip Briatico.  The program contains songs from musicals, movies and classical pieces.  Tickets are 10 dollars for an adult, 8 for seniors and 5 for students.  Children 5 and under get in free.

The Buffalo Bills announced safety Damar Hamlin has been discharged from Buffalo General Medical Center/Gates Vascular Institute.  On Monday, Hamlin was released from the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and returned to Buffalo. Kaleida Health later released a statement that confirmed Hamlin was transferred to Buffalo General Medical Center/Gates Vascular Institute.  In the statement released Wednesday, the Bills said Hamlin went through a comprehensive medical evaluation as well as a series of cardiac, neurological and vascular testing. He will continue his rehabilitation at home and with the Bills.

Buffalo Bills announced the team has activated the practice window for safety Micah Hyde and wide receiver Jamison Crowder.  According to Bills head coach Sean McDermott, Hyde and Crowder will both practice Wednesday.  They will not play this week but there is a chance they could return in the future if the Bills win Sunday.  The Bills are set to return to Highmark Stadium Sunday at 1 p.m. to take on the Miami Dolphins in the Wild Card round of the NFL Playoffs.

Makeen Ithna-Asheri

62-year-old Makeen Ithna-Asheri of Batavia has been sentenced to 2 and a half to 7 years in prison, for failing to help his wife who overdosed on drugs in front of their children. Ithna-Asheri had been on lifetime parole for murder and in this case, pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter on an Alford basis, meaning that he did not admit a criminal act but acknowledged that there was enough evidence to find him guilty. His wife, 38-year-old Anda Ithna-Asheri died late December 2021 at the couple’s apartment on Bank Street, during which time her husband failed to help her or call for assistance. He also prevented the children from calling by taking their phone away. The couple both overdosed that night; however, Ithna-Asheri recovered before police arrived and by then, his wife had been dead for some time.

Stephen Pike

A parolee with repeated arrests and who served a prison term for domestic violence has now been indicted on charges that he strangled a woman. 26-year-old Stephen Pike of Pavilion has been charged with strangulation, assault and criminal mischief in an indictment filed by a Genesee County grand jury in County Court. He is accused of choking the victim to unconsciousness while in Batavia on August 6th. Pike also allegedly broke a window in the residence prior to assaulting the woman. He had been released from prison late in June after serving a two-year term for domestic violence.

Governor Hochul, during the State of the State – 1/10/23

Governor Hochul has used her State of the State speech to address some of the important issues that New Yorkers are dealing with on a daily basis. She discussed a variety of topics yesterday including increasing public safety and dealing with the state’s housing crisis and revealed how her administration is going to work to make life better for Empire State residents. The governor also unveiled a plan she believes will strengthen the state’s mental health care system. She also pledged that the state won’t raise income taxes this year.

Buffalo VA Medical Center (file photo)

Nurses at the Buffalo VA Medical Center claim that management had no plan in place to ensure patient care was not affected during the recent blizzard. Some of those nurses held a news conference yesterday, saying that many of them had to work extended hours to make sure everyone could be treated. They also said there were no arrangements made to get nurses safely to and from the hospital and that employees also were not offered a place to stay until the storm passed. In a statement, the hospital didn’t directly address these complaints but did say it was proud of the nurses’ individual and collective contributions and sacrifices.

Dominic Pezzola

Opening statements will be heard today in the trial of a Rochester man arrested following violent protests at the United States Capitol. Prosecutors say that Dominic Pezzola was one of several people seen smashing a window at the Capitol building with a police shield back on January 6th, 2021. If convicted, he could be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison. Thousands of protesters stormed the Capitol in an attempt to stop Congress from certifying President Biden’s win over ex-President Donald Trump.

Members of the Rochester City School District’s Board of Education have unanimously voted to have police officers stationed outside of some schools. This move comes following an incident where students were nearly struck by gunfire at the Franklin Educational Campus last week. The school board president says that police will not be inside of schools. The cost of this increased security is expected to be about $370,000.

From 12/28/20: #85 Lee Smith celebrates with Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs – following a first half touchdown against the New England Patriots

The Buffalo Bills have a home playoff game this weekend, and the Better Business Bureau has issued a warning to fans about ticket scams. The agency says scammers will be hard at work to try and take advantage of people who want to attend the game at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, but there are things you can do to avoid getting ripped off. They include being weary of pop-up ads that offer discounted rates for tickets since they’re often a scam; also, take a few minutes and do some research on the vendor you’re looking to purchase tickets from. Sunday’s game between the Bills and Miami Dolphins is set for 1:00.

Alex Tuch celebrates with Rasmus Dahlin (file photo)

The Buffalo Sabres are now on a two-game losing streak following a tough defeat on home ice. Alex Tuch scored twice and Rasmus Dahlin also had a goal but the Sabres still fell to the Seattle Kraken 4-3 at KeyBank Center last night. Sabres goaltender Eric Comrie faced 22 shots in the contest but was only able to stop 18 of them. The next game for the Sabres is tomorrow night at home against the Winnipeg Jets; the puck drops at 7:00.

Green Comet, from January 2023-named-C/2022 E3 (ZTF)

There is a newly discovered bright green comet on its way to pass Earth. This will be a once-in-a-lifetime show and even visible to the naked eye. The comet, named C/2022 E3 (ZTF), was discovered last March and is passing through our solar system. The icy celestial object has gotten brighter and brighter as it nears the sun, building up excitement from astronomers and skywatchers alike. Comets are “cosmic snowballs” of dust, rock and ice. They heat up as they near the sun, taking on a glow and spewing a tail of dust and gas that can stretch millions of miles. NASA says the bright green comet has a short, broad tail of dust and a long, faint ion tail. You can’t see it without a telescope yet, but a few astronomers have nabbed stunning photos as it continues its voyage. It will soar past the sun tomorrow, January 12th, and make its closest approach to Earth around Feb. 2. NASA says those of us in the Northern Hemisphere will find the comet in the morning sky as it heads northwest this month. It’ll be visible in the Southern Hemisphere as well in February.

Please play responsibly.

Another Mega Millions drawing has come and gone without a jackpot winner and that means the game’s top prize has grown once again. The jackpot that’s going to be up for grabs Friday will be more than $1,300,000,000 (billion). There has not been a Mega Millions jackpot winner since October. Meanwhile, the jackpot for Powerball tonight is $360,000,000. Please play responsibly.

According to an anonymous teacher at Franklin Educational Campus in Rochester, gang violence is a major problem behind a lot of the issues inside the school and administration has been aware of that for years.  They also said that the lockout procedures were only in place for 7 minutes 6 days ago when a gunman fired at a student outside the school and they were not followed for those 7 minutes.  The teacher also stated that the school never called 911, an RTS bus driver outside the school called in the shooting.  Parents were not notified until after dismissal according to a report.  Crews were seen installing security cameras Tuesday.  No one has been arrested in connection to the shooting.

Edwards Vacuum, a company that develops and manufactures vacuum pumps for the semiconductor industry, is asking the Genesee County Economic Development Center to approve incentives for their 212 million dollar first phase project at the STAMP site in Alabama.  Edwards Vacuum’s “factory of the future” is being constructed to serve the semiconductor industry and advanced manufacturing sectors and would create approximately 343 new high-paying jobs. The new facility is projected to generate more than $13.4 million in future revenues to the Town of Alabama, Genesee County, Oakfield-Alabama School District and the Alabama Fire Department over 20 years.  They want tax exemptions on sales, and property taxes.  The project is estimated to generate $644 million in payroll and projected future municipal revenues, a $39 benefit to the local economy for every $1 of public investment.  GCEDC is meeting to discuss it on January 12th.

Governor Kathy Hochul Tuesday announced several major proposals that she says will provide an economic boost to farmers and strengthen New York’s food supply chain as part of the 2023 State of the State.  She proposed using state purchasing power to buy more NY farm produced food, making the investment tax credit refundable, increasing food manufacturing in the Empire State and creating a farm workforce pipeline to shore up the workforce shortages.  The Governor has also proposed a number of additional programs in the 2023 State of the State address to impact agriculture, including enhancing New York’s community garden programming and a $10 million grant program to support the establishment of farm markets, supermarkets, food cooperatives, and other similar retail food stores, along with supporting infrastructure in underserved communities and regions of the State.

During the State of the State address on Tuesday Governor Hochul announced she plans to raise the minimum wage annually and peg it to inflation.  She said that the minimum wage earners are the ones hardest hit by inflation and cost of living increases it brings.  She said the state minimum wage would increase every time inflation increases.  She says that this will allow employers to plan ahead and spur more spending in local economies.

High demand for Buffalo Playoff tickets means scammers are coming out of the woodwork.  Matt Krueger, Communications director with Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York says that these people will go to any extent if it means they can make a quick buck off you or a loved one.  Tickets for Sunday’s game, even in the nosebleed sections, are already reaching hundreds of dollars.  Krueger says that ads for discounted tickets are almost always a scam.  He says that if you are buying your tickets second hand look for reviews, contact information, and be wary.  Buying from trusted vendors and people you know is always a safer bet.

The Buffalo Sabres dropped their second game in a row Tuesday night 4 to 3 against the Seattle Kraken.  This is the Kraken’s 6th consecutive win.  Alex Tuch scored twice for the Sabres, Rasmus Dahlin had a goal and an assist and Jeff Skinner tallied two assists. Sabres goalie Eric Comrie stopped 18 shots in his first start since sustaining a lower-body injury on Nov. 16.  The Sabres will host again on Thursday against the Winnipeg Jets.  Game starts at 7pm.

The surviving dog that had been abandoned by Searight and Scarbrough – photo provided by law enforcement

37-year-old Robert Williams of LeRoy has been sentenced to six months in Genesee County Jail and five years probation. He was found guilty in November of two counts of cruelty to animals for putting bleach in the eyes of two dogs. The dogs were treated and have since recovered. In a separate case, 35-year-old Andrew Searight and 24-year-old Jerrtonia Scarbrough, each pleaded guilty to animal cruelty after admitting to abandoning two dogs in their Bank Street apartment after they moved to Niagara County. They were placed on probation for one year. One of the dogs died and the other has since recovered.

The City Council has approved a new three-year contract with the Police Benevolent Association Union. The agreement includes a 3% salary increase for the first year 2.5% salary increases for the second and third year. A one-time payment of $1500 will be made to union members using American Rescue Plan Act funds. Also, health care premiums will increase from between 15 and 30%. The detailed story is available on the website of our news partner, The Batavian. Here is a direct link to the story:

https://www.thebatavian.com/joanne-beck/efficiency-equality-emergency-response-on-deck-for-city-police-requests-during-mondays

Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel has announced the lineup for their sixth Rockin’ the Downs concert series, which will take place outside on the racetrack, with eight Friday dates, starting in June and extending into August. The shows will kick off with Almost Queen and Get the Led Out returns this summer, too. Until February 8th, tickets purchased online for the General Admission section will only be $10. And concertgoers will still receive $10 in Free Play on show day with this ticket. Concerts are held Rain or Shine. Additional information may be found at:

www.BataviaDownsGaming.com

Jeremiah Thomas

36-year-old Jeremiah Thomas of Albion has been sentenced to six months in jail and five years probation for reckless endangerment and criminal mischief. He drove his car into another vehicle at McDonald’s in Medina after a dispute. No one was injured in the other car, which included a young child. Thomas is on the Sex Offender Registry for a 2005 conviction for felony sex abuse of a 7-year-old boy in Oregon. He was also convicted on similar charges for abusing a 17-year-old girl in 2014, also in Oregon.

Patrick Casanova

A parolee faces up to four years in state prison after pleading guilty to assaulting a woman, the mother of his brother’s child. 29-year-old Patrick Casanova punched the woman in the face, breaking bones around her eye. This sparked a confrontation with the assault that involved his three brothers. His parole followed time served for weapons possession. Medina Police report that he had been angry at the woman for filing harassment charges against him a week earlier.

Multiple Rochester City School District employees have been suspended after video of a recent shots fired incident was made public. The footage showed students rushing into the entrance of a building at the Franklin Educational Campus last week to avoid being hit by gunfire. Thankfully, none of the students ended up getting hurt. All of the affected workers are on paid administrative leave as an investigation into how the security video ended up being shared moves forward.

Governor Hochul (file photo)

Governor Hochul will be outlining her priorities for the year ahead during her State of the State address today. Among the issues the governor is expected to discuss include making housing more affordable and additional ways to improve the safety of New Yorkers. Hochul will be speaking at 1:00 in the Assembly Chamber at the State Capitol in Albany. The address will be streamed online at governor.ny.gov.

Damar Hamlin

Just days after suffering cardiac arrest during a game, Damar Hamlin is out of a Cincinnati hospital and has returned to Buffalo to continue his recovery. Hamlin collapsed last Monday night after taking a hit during a contest between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals. He was originally in critical condition, but his doctors said it was safe enough to fly him back to this area and he’s currently stable. But they also say it’s too early to tell if he’ll be able to resume his football career.

Craig Anderson

The two game winning streak of the Buffalo Sabres has been snapped after the team suffers a tough loss at home. No Sabres were able to score in last night’s 4-0 shutout defeat at the hands of the Philadelphia Flyers at KeyBank Center. Buffalo goaltender Craig Anderson struggled in net and was only able to stop 34 of the 38 shots he faced in the contest. The next game for the Sabres is tonight when they host the Seattle Kraken; the puck drops at 7:00.

Please play responsibly.

Someone could be just few hours away from boosting their bank account by winning the third-largest jackpot in Mega Millions history. The top prize for tonight’s drawing is going to be at least $1,100,000,000 (billion). There have been over 20 drawings since someone last won the Mega Millions jackpot on October 14th. The largest prize in the game’s history was more than $1,500,000,000 (billion) in 2018. Please play responsibly.

CompassCare has launched its own private investigation into the break in and firebombing against one of its locations Eggert Rd in Buffalo that happened in June of last year.  They are partnering with the Thomas More Society, a law firm “dedicated to restoring respect in law for life, family, religious liberty, and election integrity.”  CompassCare said it had cooperated with local law enforcement and federal investigators but CEO Jim Harden says that the FBI has not been “operating in good faith.”  There have been 78 attacks on pro life centers in the last 6 months and not a single perpetrator has been arrested.  Yet when a pro abortion center was vandalized there was an arrest within days.  Jane’s Revenge, a pro abortion group that said it was angry over the overturn of Roe vs Wade, claimed responsibility for the attack and many others.  “It is a sad day when private citizens are left to do the work of law enforcement,” Harden added.

Three staff members are on leave after a security video on the shooting at the Rochester City School Franklin Educational Campus surfaced on the internet.  The district confirmed it’s investigating how the video was released.  The video appeared to show a gunman trying to shoot a student at an entrance to the school. Two other students could be seen in the video.  A district spokesperson said because the video shows students’ faces and they can easily be identified, it violates the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and said staff members were not authorized to share it.  The 3 staff are security officers.

Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin is back in his home city.  Doctors caring for Hamlin at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center said Hamlin returned to his home city and is starting the next phase of his recovery at Buffalo General Medical Center.  Physicians said it’s still too early to know if Hamlin will be able to play football again.  They reiterated an update given last week that it appears Hamlin is “neurologically intact.

The American Red Cross is looking for more blood donors for National Blood Donor Month.  Anyone who donates blood or platelets through the Red Cross for the rest of the month will be entered to win two tickets to Super Bowl LVII in Arizona. Aside from tickets to the game, the winners will receive access to day-of, in-stadium pre-game activities, tickets to the official Super Bowl Experience, round-trip airfare to Phoenix, three-night hotel accommodations (February 10-13, 2023), plus a $500 gift card for expenses.  The Red Cross says donations are just as crucial now as ever, with the threat of severe winter weather and rise in seasonal illness cases.

The Buffalo Bills first Playoff game has been announced and it is against the Miami Dolphins.  They will be playing at home in Highmark Stadium on Sunday.  Kickoff is at 1:05pm.  The Bills are number 2 seed and the Dolphins are number 7.  In the regular season the Bills were 1 and 1 against dolphins losing to them in September and winning against them in their rematch.

Lawmakers in Albany are relooking at the policy that was announced last year to make all new construction in the Empire State fully electric in the next 15 years.  The Winter storm that came across Christmas weekend is responsible for making lawmakers rethink their ideas.  Democrat lawmakers are saying that the plan is fantastic at reducing carbon emissions and fighting climate change.  Republicans are saying it is a fantasy.  At the center of the debate is the fact that energy cannot be stored as electricity for long periods of time.  Even the ambitious plan Governor Hochul unveiled in December to create a network of batteries across New York would only power half of the residences in New York City for an hour or so.  Several large areas of Buffalo were without power for 3-5 days.  Republicans point out that natural gas, gasoline and propane are some of the only workable solutions in shutdowns like over Christmas.

The Sabres were shut out Monday night in their match up against the Philadelphia Flyers 4 to nothing.  Craig Anderson made 34 saves for Buffalo in the uneven match where the Sabres only shot on the Flyers goal 28 times.  Sabres goalie Eric Comrie was activated from injured reserve on Monday. Comrie has been out of action since he sustained a lower-body injury Nov. 16 against Ottawa. Goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen was loaned to AHL Rochester to make room on the roster.  Sabres are hosting again tonight against the Seattle Kraken.  Puck drop is 7pm.

The Batavia Police Department and the Batavia Fire Department faced off in a battle of wills and skills on Sunday at the David M. McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena for a charity match.  They played to benefit the David M. McCarthy Foundation.  During the game there were quick turnarounds, a fight which caused the Batavia PD to deploy their secret weapon, a Police SUV which drove out on the ice in support of their team, the fire truck wouldn’t fit in the building. In the end the Police were victorious with a 5 to 2 win over the Firefighters.

George Brown

A former Attica Correctional Facility inmate who was eligible for parole next year has been sentenced to two more terms for setting fires in his cell and attacking officers. 37-year-old George Brown was sentenced in Wyoming County Court to 3 to 6 years for third-degree arson and another term of 4 years for second-degree assault of a corrections officer. He could have faced up to 25 years in prison; however, he accepted a plea deal. Brown was in a special housing unit at Attica in January because of previous behavior problems when the most recent incidents occurred.

40-year-old Joe Andrew Cortez, a homeless man living in Batavia, is charged with rape. It is alleged he had forcible intercourse with a victim under the age of 17. Cortez is being held in Genesee County Jail and is scheduled to appear in Batavia Town Court on January 24th.  ALSO:  Genesee County Sheriff’s responded late last week to a possible larceny in progress at Ulta Beauty on Veterans Memorial Drive. Upon arrival, they observed three individuals walking to their vehicle with bags full of stolen items according to deputies. 24-year-old Mone Wiggins and 24-year-old Yathil Karis K. Lay-Rivera were each charged with grand larceny 4th degree, a class E felony and conspiracy 5th degree, a class A misdemeanor. Wiggins was additionally charged with criminal impersonation, a class A misdemeanor. Also charged in the incident, 18-year-old Aniyah Kendrick, with conspiracy 5th degree. All three subjects will appear in the Town of Batavia Court on January 24 at 3:00.  ALSO:  42-year-old Tommy Mobley III of LeRoy has been charged with criminal possession of a weapon, after allegedly attempting to purchase a firearm at 411 West Main Street while he was prohibited by law to do so. Mobley was transported to Genesee County Jail for processing and was released on an appearance ticket. He is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court on February 28th.

Antwan Odom

The trial of 22-year-old Antwan Odom of Batavia has been delayed. His attorney was Frank Housh, who was recently suspended for misconduct. Odom was arraigned on four counts of burglary charges and is currently awaiting trial at the Wyoming County Jail. Although his trial was scheduled to start next week, a new date will probably be set to provide time to find a new attorney for Odom.

Nicholas Turnquist

37-year-old Nicholas Turnquist, most recently of West Falls, has just accepted a deal, in which he pleaded guilty to a 2014 rape at the Darien Lake Amusement Park. By doing so, he will now be allowed to serve his sentences concurrently, since he was already serving 13 years in federal prison for sex crimes. Over a decade ago, Turnquist reportedly was engaged in sexual activity with a minor that continued over the course of two years; the rapes started when the victim was 14. Turnquist will be on parole for 15 years after serving his prison term.

State Attorney General Letitia James has announced a plan to hold a hearing on mental health access in Western New York. It’s happening Wednesday, January 18th at the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library located at Lafayette Square in Buffalo. James says it is imperative that mental health services are available to all communities. People who wish to speak at the hearing must sign up to do so online by 5:00pm Wednesday, January 11th.

Seth Larson

The trial of an Irondequoit man who is accused of brutally murdering his girlfriend is expected to begin today. Prosecutors say Seth Larson killed 37-year-old Lisa Shuler back in May 2021. Shuler’s body was discovered outside of the residence she shared with Larson on Culver Road in Irondequoit. Larson was taken into custody after a search that lasted several weeks and involved the United States Marshals Service. He’s facing a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.

Positive COVID test result

The New York State Department of Health is now sounding the alarm about the spread of the newest variant of the coronavirus. That’s because the variant now comprises more than half of the COVID cases in the Empire State. It’s recommended people take steps to protect themselves from getting sick such as washing their hands, keeping surfaces clean, and making sure they’re vaccinated against the illness. As of the last report, the seven-day average COVID-19 infection rate in our area was 7.21%. Full vaccination among New Yorkers is up slightly from 11% in early December, but still far from the level health officials say could help tip the scales in curbing infections and severe illnesses.

According to Triple A today, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas in New York State is $3.45, which is up 6 cents from a week ago; nationally, it is $3.28. In Batavia, we’re paying on average $3.31 per gallon; the same as it was a week ago but down 20 cents from a month ago today.

Nyheim Hines – after 96 yard run – 1/8/23

The Buffalo Bills have finished up their regular season with a win and are now focused on the playoffs. Nyheim Hines returned two kickoffs for touchdowns as the Bills beat the New England Patriots 35 to 23 at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park yesterday. Quarterback Josh Allen also tossed three touchdown passes in the victory. Up next for the Bills is a home postseason contest against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday at 1:00.

Jim Carrey as “Lloyd Christmas” from the movie, Dumb and Dumber

Tuesday’s Mega Millions jackpot stands at an estimated $1,100,000,000. That makes it the third largest in the game’s history. The cash option on that works out to just shy of $569,000,000. The odds of winning the megamillions lottery is roughly 1 in 302,000,000. (So, you’re telling me there’s a chance!) Please play responsibly.

Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin is posting to Twitter and Instagram and held a facetime call with his team before their game on Sunday.  He posted that  “The love is felt, & extremely real. No matter race or religion everybody coming together in prayer!”  The Bills also released the following in their update. “Per the physicians at UC Medical Center, Damar is making continued progress in his recovery yet remains in critical condition.”  Hamlin also announced right after the Bills game that he is selling Did We Win? T-shirts and tweeted that all proceeds are going to support first responders and the UC Trauma Center where he is being treated.  The T-Shirts are 33 dollars.

37 year old Nicolas Turnquist is already sentenced to 13 years in federal prison for sex crimes and just pleaded guilty to a rape in 2014 at the Darien Lake Amusement Park.  He accepted a plea deal that allows him to serve his sentences at the same time if he copped to the charge.  A decade ago, Turnquist, who most recently lived in West Falls, reportedly engaged in sexual activity with a minor in multiple jurisdictions, including Genesee County, Wyoming County, Erie County, Pennsylvania and Canada.  The course of rapes involving a single victim started in 2012, when the victim was 14, according to prosecutors, and continue for at least two more years.  He will be on parole for 15 years following his federal prison term.

The new president of the Chamber of Commerce is a world traveler and experienced at working with large numbers of people.  Brian Cousins most recently worked for Six Flags Darien Lake as director of Accommodations.  He also loved to travel with his wife, going to over 40 countries.  Initially thinking he would work the mic for a radio station after testing the waters at Genesee Community College and then pursuing Communications at Fredonia State College, Cousins eventually followed the trail that led to a steady job. And then to a successful career at Darien Lake, where he comfortably remained for 25 years.  Cousins filled the vacancy left by former President Erik Fix, who is now Batavia’s Assistant City Manager.  He says he believes in systems and will address issues and operational elements systematically while keeping an open door to service the community and any visitors whether from out of town or out of country.

Batavia Downs hasn’t hosted a winter race meet for decades.  Starting today that changes as they will be holding a 15 day session.  Races start at 3pm and run Mondays through Thursdays all the way up to February 27th.  All the local drivers and trainers will be back in action along with out of town talent.  The wagering menu remains the same and will feature five Doubles, 13 Exactas, 13 Trifectas, 12 Superfectas, two Pick-3s, two Pick-4, one Pick-5 and one Jackpot Super Hi-5 Pentafecta.

The Buffalo Sabres won against the Minnesota Wild Saturday night in Overtime 6-5.  Victor Olofsson, Tage Thompson, Rasmus Dahlin, and Dylan Cozens scored for the Sabres with Dahlin and Olofsson scoring twice.  Olofsson put the puck in with less than 1 minute left to win the game.  The Sabres are back in action at the KeyBank Center, Monday night against Philadelphia. Puck drop is at 7 p.m. est.

The Buffalo Bills beat the New England Patriots 35 to 23 Sunday afternoon at Highmark stadium.  It started with a bang when Nyheim Hines ran the kickoff back for a 96 yard touchdown.  A feat he repeated in the 2nd half of the game.  It’s been three years and three months since the last kickoff return made a touchdown for Buffalo.  This victory sets the Bills to have the #2 seed in the AFC playoffs.  #1 goes to the Kansas City Chiefs.