Local News

Tyler Gulisano

Tyler Gulisano

The Batavia Police Department is seeking public assistance in locating Tyler Gulisano who has been reported missing. Tyler was last seen on 07/06/2022 in the early morning hours after leaving the Sisters of Charity Hospital in Buffalo, NY. A family member received a call from him at about 12:45 PM from the Seneca Texas Red Hot’s business in Buffalo. Tyler is believed to be in an altered mental state, so there is a concern for him. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Police Officer Josh Girvin or the on-duty supervisor at the Batavia Police Department, without delay, at (585) 345-6350.

Nicholas Keiffer

A Genesee County Sheriff was in pursuit of a motorcyclist, which had been observed speeding on Route 5; however, it’s alleged that the driver, 26-year-old Nicholas Keiffer, refused to stop when the Sheriff tried to pull him over, early last evening. Instead, he sped away and the deputy ended the pursuit when he lost sight of Keiffer. It was only moments later that the deputy came upon the site of the accident. Keiffer apparently left the road and careened off the grass and edge of Fargo Road becoming airborne, and ended up in a hedgerow in a field. Keiffer was confirmed dead at the scene. State Police have taken over the investigation.

Genesee County has issued water conservation notices for the last 2 years as water levels in the aquifer have been below normal levels for some time. Well, Seneca Power Partners on Cedar Street wants to draw more than 715 thousand gallons of water a day from the water that supplies the County, City and Town. The 3 municipalities have asked the DEC to deny the permit to draw all of this water. They say this would burden the aquifer, affecting the water treatment plant and the Tonawanda Creek. They said that the company did not inform the municipalities and did not consider other sources first, such as O-At-Ka Milk Products, which is only 100 yards away and discharges over 1 million gallons of water daily.

A road construction alert…Richmond Avenue is closed for road construction between Redfield Parkway and Park Road today and tomorrow, from 7:00am – 5:00pm. The roadway will be re-opened overnight. Motorists looking to access Park Road are asked to approach from the North at the intersection of Park and Veterans Memorial Drive.

George Maziarz

Last May, former state senator George Maziarz filed a lawsuit against Western Regional Off-Track Betting, accusing their board members of diverting funds for their own use, which prevented money from being fairly distributed to municipalities. OTB officials referred to the lawsuit as a ‘publicity stunt’. Today it was announced that the state Appellate Division, Fourth Department, unanimously affirmed the ruling of a previous judge, denying Maziarz reimbursement for attorney’s fees and litigation costs.

Governor Hochul

New York State is working to strengthen its sexual harassment prevention policies. Governor Hochul says that the state Department of Labor is asking New Yorkers to submit feedback for the revisions they would like to see. Officials will launch a multi-platform campaign to let people know public input is being accepted through September 20th. The labor department will also update its current sexual harassment training videos to incorporate remote work.

Dr. Jonathan Daniels

A balloon release is being held tonight to honor a Buffalo pediatrician who died in a house fire. The event will take place at 6:00pm at Urban Family Practice on Jefferson Avenue, which is where Doctor Jonathan Daniels treated his patients. On Monday, Daniels and his daughters, 27-year-old Jordan Daniels and 23-year-old Jensen Daniels, passed in the fire on Huntington Avenue. The girls’ mother and Daniels’ wife, 53-year-old Janessa Givens-Daniels, survived but is recovering. The cause of the fire hasn’t been determined.

Netza Medina

A Buffalo man who assaulted a woman and her child will be spending the next 20 years behind bars. Yesterday, a judge sentenced 43-year-old Netza Medina for violating an order of protection by breaking into the victim’s residence back in December 2020. Once he was inside, Medina pushed the woman to the floor and started choking her. The child then grabbed a knife to get Medina off the victim, but was hit in the face by his elbow. The woman was treated for multiple injuries and the child suffered a broken jaw. Once Medina is out of jail, he’ll have to spend five years on probation.

The Buffalo Sabres will be hoping to improve their roster tonight during the NHL Draft. The Sabres have the 9th, 16th, and 28th overall selections in the first round of the draft, which is taking place at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Buffalo had the number one pick last year and used it to choose defenseman Owen Power. The draft begins at 7:00pm and is going to air on both ESPN and ESPN Plus.

Niagara beat the Muckdogs last night 11-5. Today the ‘Dogs’ travel to Oneonta for a double-header that starts at 5 this afternoon; they’re back home tomorrow night against Geneva.

Genesee County has issued water conservation notices for the last 2 years as water levels in the aquifer have been below normal levels for some time.  But one company wants more water.  75 times more water.  Seneca Power Partners on Cedar St in Batavia wants to draw more than 715 thousand gallons of water a day from the water that supplies the County, city and town.  The 3 municipalities have banded together to ask the DEC to deny the permit to draw the water.  They say this much water usage would burden the aquifer, affecting the water treatment plant and the Tonawanda River.  They said that the company did not inform the municipalities and did not consider other sources such as O-At-Ka which is 100 yards away and discharges over 1 million gallons of water daily.  

A motorcyclist is dead after an accident on Rt 63 near Bethany.  A Genesee County Sheriff was in pursuit of a motorcycle which had been speeding on rt 5 and refused to stop when they tried to pull them over.  The bike sped away and the deputy ended the pursuit and lost sight of them.  It was only moments later that the deputy came upon the site of the accident.  The cycle apparently left the road and careened off the grass and edge of Fargo Rd and became airborne, landing in a hedgerow in a field on the east side of the road.  The driver was confirmed dead at the scene.  The incident is being investigated.

A road construction alert…Richmond Avenue will be closed for road construction between Redfield Parkway and Park Road today and Friday, from 7:00am – 5:00pm both days. The roadway will be re-opened overnight. Motorists looking to access Park Road are asked to approach from the North at the intersection of Park and Veterans Memorial Drive. 

Suicide rates are skyrocketing in New York and the state government is spending 52 million dollars to try to combat it.  The money is going to expand call centers for suicide and mental health emergencies.  The suicide prevention hotline is also changing numbers.  The new number is 988 which is a switch from the longer 1-800 number and the switch will happen July 16th.  The state has also earmarked 60 million dollars annually for funding these call centers.  The Governor and state government want people who are experiencing feelings of suicide or any other mental health emergency to know that they are not alone and there is someone who wants to talk to them.  Call 988 before it’s too late.

Local politicians on both sides of the border are calling on the US government and the Canadian Government to get together and lift all COVID related restrictions on the border crossing.  The mayor of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Jim Diodati said that this year only half the pre-pandemic number of people came across the border to celebrate the 4th, about 170 thousand less vehicles crossed the Peace Bridge.  US representative Brian Higgins said that people are confused, the policies are inconsistent and “people have adjusted their economic behavior to avoid coming into western NY or going into Southern Ontario.”  The tourism revenue between the United States and Canada is about half of what it was before COVID-19. Diodati believes the impacts could be long-term.

Jason Smith

Batavia residents are invited to share their thoughts at two public hearings about the school district’s conduct code and the addition of another school resource officer at about $100,000 a year. A prior hearing about the Code of Conduct brought out no one for comment. The school resource officer is obtained through the city of Batavia and its police department, with the school district picking up the cost. The hearings are part of combined re-organizational and regular meetings of the board this week. The session begins at 6:15pm tomorrow in the Superintendent’s Conference Room at Batavia High School. Superintendent Jason Smith will provide the review of each topic, and district residents will be invited to sign up prior to or during the review to voice comments or questions. Speakers are given a three-minute time limit each per topic. Additional information is available here: https://www.thebatavian.com/joanne-beck/batavia-district-residents-invited-to-public-hearings-about-code-and-second-100k

A road construction alert…Richmond Avenue will be closed for road construction between Redfield Parkway and Park Road tomorrow and Friday, from 7:00am – 5:00pm both days. The roadway will be re-opened overnight. Motorists looking to access Park Road are asked to approach from the North at the intersection of Park and Veteran’s Memorial Drive. If there are any questions concerning this work, please, contact The Town of Batavia – Highway Department at (585) 343-1729 Extension 218.

The 2022 Summer Food Service Program is kicking off and that means thousands of kids across the state are going to be able to receive free meals over the next several weeks. Data shows that access to healthy food during summer break benefits a child’s health and education. Locally, Batavia City Schools are offering two meals each day until August 26th. Families may pick up a free breakfast and lunch bundle from 9 a.m. to noon Mondays and Wednesdays at John Kennedy Intermediate School, and Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Genesee Country Farmers Market in the former JC Penney’s parking lot. The meals will also be available Monday through Friday 9-12 at Jackson Primary.

A Warsaw resident died this morning in a house fire at 24 Murray Street. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered smoke coming from the house’s second story with a victim reportedly inside. They were able to rescue him; however, he later succumbed to his injuries at Wyoming County Community Hospital. The fire’s cause remains under investigation.

37-year-old Tarrell Carter of Rochester was arrested by Le Roy Police and charged with strangulation (a felony) and two misdemeanors, assault and endangering the welfare of a child. Shortly before midnight Sunday evening, police responded to a domestic incident at a residence in the Village of Le Roy. Carter is accused of choking and punching the victim during an argument that turned physical. He was taken into custody and arraigned in Le Roy Town Court. Carter was remanded to the Genesee County Jail with no bail and is due in court again later this month.

Letitia James

State Attorney General Letitia James is taking aim at stopping human trafficking in the Empire State. She has provided the state’s hotel and tourism associations with cards containing human trafficking information and hotline numbers and is reminding lodging facilities of their obligation to post the cards in visible locations. Traffickers rely on the hospitality industry to move, control and deliver victims of commercial sex or forced labor. A recent federal human trafficking report revealed 57-percent of all trafficking victims last year were minors and 92-percent were sex trafficking cases.

Great Northern Grain Elevator

Following a ruling from a State Supreme Court judge, demolition of the Great Northern Grain Elevator in Buffalo can now proceed. Preservationists have been trying for the last several months to prevent the structure from being torn down. The grain elevator, built back in 1897, was severely damaged during a windstorm last December during which a significant portion of its brick exterior walls was lost. It’s the last of its kind in North America. There’s no word yet when demolition is going to begin. However, the City of Buffalo announced it would grant an emergency demolition permit.

Shore erosion – Lake Ontario

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer says efforts are being made to prevent future flooding in communities along the Lake Ontario shoreline. Schumer made the announcement yesterday during a visit to Sodus Point, which was devastated by flooding in both 2017 and 2019. Schumer says a bill called the Storm Act would provide $500,000,000 for flood control projects. Once that funding is made available, residents and businesses will have access to the money.

Two members of the Buffalo Police Department have been cleared of any wrongdoing in connection with an officer-involved shooting. The incident happened last month after 27-year-old Nakeem Haynes allegedly shot and killed 63-year-old Atlas Johnson near Broadway and Sears Street. When police approached Haynes, he jumped on the hood of their vehicle and opened fire but didn’t hit anyone. The officers then ran after Haynes who ended up being shot several times. Haynes is charged with murder and attempted murder and could be sentenced to 25 years to life in prison if convicted.

Tops early logo

Tops Friendly Markets is holding a hiring event over the next couple of days as the company looks to add employees at its distribution center. The supermarket chain is offering in-person interviews at its facility on Genesee Street in Lancaster from noon until 3:00pm tomorrow. Some of the positions that need to be filled include warehouse selectors, drivers and maintenance mechanics. For more information, visit topsmarkets.com/jobs.

Thanks to the Keep Kids Fed program Batavia city schools are offering free meals through the summer for kids 18 and under. Two meals a day will be available until August 26th. Families may pick up a free breakfast and lunch bundle from 9 a.m. to noon Mondays and Wednesdays at John Kennedy Intermediate School, and Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at Genesee Country Farmers Market in the former JC Penney’s parking lot downtown.  The meals will also be available Monday through Friday 9-12 at Jackson Primary. 

If you run a hotel you are obligated to post human trafficking hotline and help information in public places said NY Attorney General Letitia James as a reminder to all hotels in NY.  New York law requires hotels and lodging facilities to post informational cards that contain only information about services for human trafficking victims.  The cards must be in plain view and prominently display the national human trafficking hotline number.  According to the most recent Federal Human Trafficking Report from June, 57% of all human trafficking victims in 2021 were minors and 92% were sex trafficking cases.  New York remains among the top five states with the highest number of new sex trafficking cases, active sex trafficking cases, and cases involving minors.

The Great Northern Grain Elevator near Buffalo’s waterfront is finally going to be torn down after a judge ruled Wednesday to go ahead with it’s demolition.  The grain elevator was damaged during a windstorm on December 11, 2021 and lost a significant portion of one of its brick exterior walls. The owner of the building, ADM Milling Company, then filed for emergency demolition and on December 17,  the City of Buffalo announced it would grant an emergency demolition permit.  Preservation groups sued to stop the demolition of the over 100 year old building.  Some groups even offered to buy the building and repair it or turn it into a multi use building. All those plans fell through a judge reached the decision that the building could not survive the damages and ordered it torn down.

Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of President Abraham Lincoln, will be visiting the Richmond Memorial Library on July 16th at 2pm to share a tea time with all who gather with her and talk about her life, achievements and more. Learn how Mary’s knowledge of both politics and social customs made it possible for a backwoods frontier attorney to achieve the highest office in the land and lead America through the darkest time in its history. Librarian Laura Keyes shares Mary’s story in an entertaining and educational program entitled “Mrs. Lincoln in Love,” which is set on January 31st 1862.

In 2018 over 7000 people answered the survey to share their health information. This year Common Ground Health wants 10000 people from western NY and the Finger Lakes regions to answer their survey to help deepen understanding of the dynamics that drive health equity, and reveal where program and policy changes could make our communities healthier. The survey will be open throughout the summer.

Jeffery Hall

A Batavia man is facing felony sex abuse charges. 38-year-old Jeffery Hall is accused of grabbing a 63-year-old delivery employee and forcing her hand to touch him. The incident occurred on May 24th at a Ross Street residence, close to midnight. Hall was arrested following police investigation and released on his own recognizance. He is to appear July 13 in City Court.

35-year-old Brandon Dodd of Highland Drive, Batavia now has felony and misdemeanor charges filed against him. Genesee County Sheriffs investigated a larceny complaint at Kohl’s and found that Dodd had taken merchandise, which he brought to the Pawn King Shop and falsified a bill of sale attesting to the ownership of the stolen property. Dodd was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear to Town of Batavia Court early next month.

Dr. Jonathan Daniels

The Daniels home, Huntington Avenue, Buffalo

The investigation continues into what caused a house fire in Buffalo that killed a father and two of his daughters. Crews were called to the scene on Huntington Avenue yesterday and arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the residence. The victims have been identified as 53-year-old Doctor Jonathan Daniels, 23-year-old Jensen Daniels and 27-year-old Jordan Daniels. The girls’ mother, 53-year-old Janessa Givens-Daniels, was rushed to the hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. Five firefighters were hurt while battling the blaze but none of their injuries are serious.

Ronnie Hartman

A Western New York resident has come up short in his bid to be named the best competitive hot dog eater in the world. Yesterday, Ronnie Hartman of Hamburg downed 25 hot dogs and buns in 10 minutes as part of the Nathan’s Hot Dog eating contest at Coney Island in Brooklyn. Unfortunately, Hartman’s total was far below winner Joey Chestnut’s tally of 63. Hartman says he tried his best and is promising to come back even hungrier next year.

Triple A tells us that highway travel over the holiday weekend was the second busiest since 2000 and many campgrounds and RV parks were booked to capacity. This morning, Western New York drivers are seeing lower prices at the pump when it comes time to fill up their vehicles. The average cost for a gallon of regular fuel in our region is now $4.91. That’s down four cents from last week, is 14 cents less than a month ago, and is a $1.76 more than this time last year. The state average is currently $4.88 a gallon while nationally it’s $4.80. In Batavia, the average price per gallon is $4.79; down 2 cents from yesterday and 8 cents from a week ago. The average price for diesel is $6.26 a gallon, the same as it was a week ago.

Carey Bradley

A Rochester man has been arrested in connection with a shots fired incident that happened in Gates. Officials say 26-year-old Carey Bradley was trying to shoot a man on Fox Run Sunday night. That man was later found with a gunshot wound to the foot but he refused to provide details of the incident to police. Bradley was taken into custody following a traffic stop in Rochester and police say at the time of his arrest, he had a loaded gun with him that appears to have been stolen.

The Muckdogs lost to Geneva in the tenth inning last night, the final score was 5-4. They have an afternoon game today at Niagara, and then travel back home tomorrow for $1.00 hotdog weenie night at Dwyer Stadium. Game time is 7:00pm.

The American Red Cross is urging people to roll up their sleeves and donate blood during the summer months. The agency says donations typically decline during this time of the year which limits the amount of blood that’s available to help people in an emergency. Everyone who donates through July 10th is going to receive a Red Cross recycled cotton tote bag while supplies last. The next local blood drive is this Friday, July 8th from 9am to 3pm, at the Social Services Building, 5130 East Main Street.

They say money can’t buy happiness. But wouldn’t it be fun to try?

Lottery players will be lining up today to purchase their tickets for the biggest Mega Millions jackpot since January. The amount of money up for grabs in this evening’s drawing is $370,000,000. The cost of a ticket to play is $2.00. The drawing will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

This is the first 4th of July for 49 new citizens in Rochester.  The Genesee Country Village and Museum held a naturalization ceremony on the Fourth, honoring the finale of the citizenship process for these people who come from countries like Cuba, Jamaica, and Bhutan, all with the same idea in mind – to live the American dream.  All expressed thankfulness and joy over getting their certificate making them officially US citizens.  This was the first time in three years the Genesee Country Village and Museum was able to hold the naturalization ceremony.

Gas prices were at an all time high over the July 4th weekend but that didn’t stop travelers from enjoying the holiday.  Many campgrounds and RV parks report being booked to capacity.  Air travel returned to pre pandemic levels even with many cancelations and delays.  Highway travel was the second busiest since 2000.  Gas nationally stayed expensive with the average being 4.81.  In New York the average is still 4.89 a gallon.  Summer is usually a high time for gas prices and they were already elevated going in.  We can expect gas prices to stay up through the summer.

A Batavia man is facing felony sex abuse charges after an incident in May.  38 year old Jefferey Hall is accused of grabbing a 63 year old delivery employee and forcing her hand into his privates.  The incident occurred on May 24th on Ross Street at almost midnight.  Hall is charged with felony first degree sex abuse.

A historical artifact of the forgotten war was turned over to the LeRoy historical society on Sunday.  The sword of Brigadier General Daniel Davis, which he brandished as he went into battle on September 17th. 1814, the day that he died,  was in the care of his family.  In a ceremony held at Buell cemetery on rt 5 the Davis family and friends gave the saber over.  Davis was killed defending Fort Erie against a combined British and Mohawk attack.  Armed only with his sword he charged into a melee with British veterans in an attempt to silence the cannons firing on the Fort.  During the fighting he climbed onto a parapet and was shot while attempting to stall British reinforcements so his men could retreat.  Officers recovered his sword and body and returned it to LeRoy.

In a response to the Supreme Court Decision that New York’s restriction that someone applying to get a concealed carry permit need a stated reason for carrying outside the home is unconstitutional Governor Hochul announced signing emergency legislation to restrict gun owners.  The new legislation restricts places where permit holders are allowed to carry firearms.  Areas where guns will not be allowed to be carried include Times Square, churches, bars, restaurants, airports, public parks, subways, trains, buses, ferries, schools, libraries, public parks, zoos, homeless shelters, and private property without permission of the property owner.  Democrats hail this as a landmark decision with Hochul saying this will make New Yorkers “feel safer.” And that it is the “embodiment of what it means to be an American. In honor of our 4th of July weekend.”  Republicans called it a “national embarrassment” and vowed that these restrictions would also be declared unconstitutional.  

Don’t go swimming in ponds in Clarence.  You might just brush up against an alligator.  New York State Police reported finding 2 alligators at the Clarence Town Park after a fisherman caught one and called it in.  The alligators were 3 feet long.  The DEC was called in to handle the reptiles and they had to be euthanized.  It is illegal to own an alligator in New York and police don’t know how they got there.  They are guessing that someone bought them as babies and then dropped them off at the pond when they grew too big.  Two weeks before, state troopers were called to Derby where they wrangled a 9-foot boa constrictor. The snake was then sent to the SPCA Serving Erie County.

The Genesee County Sheriffs Office unveiled a new k9 training course located at the Genesee County Fire Training Center.  Everything used to make the course, from the materials and labor, to the design and layout were donated by local businesses and through several grants.  Countrymax, Home Depot, Keybank, BOCES, Hoselton Automall and the Rochester Area Crime Stoppers donated to the project.  The course will primarily be used by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office K9 unit as well as other outside law enforcement K9 units upon request and availability.

Chase, Fisher Parks, Seneca, Miller and Columbia avenues are getting a sidewalk upgrade thanks to a deal between the Batavia City Council and contractor Master’s Edge Inc. to replace about 6400 feet of sidewalks and handicap ramps.  The contract is for just over 490 thousand dollars with 94.5 thousand available for overages.  The State Funded Consolidated Highway Improvement Program is set to help with the expenses.  Work has already started and no end date has been announced.

A hundred year old veteran is getting to live out his dream of being a pro baseball player.  Today at the Buffalo Bisons game Roy Kinyon will finally accept the offer the Bisons made to him 80 years ago when they tried to recruit him in 1942.  He told them he was bound for the Navy the next day.  Today he signs a 1 day contract and throws out the 1st pitch for the 6 o clock game.  Kinyon served in the US Navy for four years, rising to the ranks of Chief, Motorist Machinist. His vessel, the USS Shoshone, was an amphibious cargo assault ship active in the Pacific Theater. Kinyon was aboard his ship off the shores of Iwo Jima on February 23, 1945 where he watched six US Marines raise an American flag atop the summit of Mount Suribachi.

Despite some rain early Saturday morning, a water conservation notice remains in effect for Genesee County.
Although there is plenty of water throughout the year on average days, without conservation efforts, keeping up with demands during hot dry stretches becomes difficult. The County is asking everyone to pitch in on water conservation efforts through the peak of summer heat.
The forecast through the July 4th Holiday weekend calls for mostly sunny skies with highs in the upper 70’s to low 80’s.

The woman who stole $105,000 from the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce will spend the next seven years in state prison.
45-year-old Kelly Ashcraft will serve concurrent sentences for grand larceny, forgery and falsifying business records.
Ashcraft admitted to taking the money while she worked as the director of member services for the chamber. As part of her sentence, she also has to pay restitution.

With a lot of people expected to be on the roads for the Independence Day weekend, members of law enforcement across New York State will be keeping a close eye out for drunk drivers.
Travelers can expect to see increased police patrols as part of a STOP-DWI campaign that runs from today through July 5th.

The state Health Department is issuing a reminder to all New Yorkers about the dangers of fireworks. The agency says in order to prevent serious injury leave the use of fireworks to professionals.
There were over 15-thousand fireworks-related injuries that required emergency department treatment in 2020, with most happening around July 4th.

A note for drivers who use Richmond Avenue in Batavia. Construction on Richmond is scheduled to begin this Wednesday, July 6th.
Milling and paving as well as work on the sidewalk on the north side of the street will start the $2.6 million project from Oak Street to State Street. No street closures are anticipated but delays should be expected.

The Genesee County Office for Aging tells us that the Farmer’s Market Coupons will not be available until sometime next week.
The coupons will be good for free produce at any certified Farmer’s Market in Genesee County. They expect to have coupons available sometime this coming week.

The State Department of Environmental Conservation tells us there is an Air Quality Advisory in effect for Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties today, until 11:00pm. This is due today to high-levels of ground-level ozone, most often created by car exhaust and out-of-state emission sources mixing with oxygen. This form of ozone should not be confused with the protective layer of ozone in the upper atmosphere. During times of elevated pollution levels, people are advised to consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who are especially sensitive to pollutants include the very young and those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease. Anyone with symptoms should consider consulting their Primary Care Provider. For more information, the New York State Air Quality Hotline can be reached by calling 800-535-1345.

The Genesee County Office for Aging tells us that the Farmer’s Market Coupons that they hoped could be handed out starting today will not be available until sometime next week due to printer problems. The coupons will be good for free produce at any certified Farmer’s Market in Genesee County. They expect to have coupons available sometime next week.

With the recent drier than normal weather and forecasted above average temperatures, Genesee County officials are once again asking residents to conserve water. Although there is plenty of water throughout the year on average days, without conservation efforts, keeping up with demands during hot dry stretches becomes difficult. The County is asking everyone to pitch in on water conservation efforts through the peak of summer heat.

The Canadian Government has announced that the travel restrictions for COVID 19 will continue at least until September 30th. What this means is, Americans crossing the border must be fully vaccinated and are mandated to use the ArriveCAN app to submit information. They may also be subject to random arrival testing. Representative Brian Higgins is not happy about this; he reflected that 2-1/2 years of border restrictions, with most people being vaccinated on both sides of the border, are breaking the US Canada relationship and economies.

Craig Anderson

41-year-old goaltender Craig Anderson is returning to the NHL for a 20th season. He signed a one-year contract yesterday worth $1.5 million to remain with the Buffalo Sabres. He posted a 17-12-2 record with a 3.12 goals-against average and .897 save percentage in 31 starts in 2021-22. He began playing in the NHL in the 2002-03 season and joined the Sabres last July on a one-year contract worth $750,000.

A traffic alert for you to stay mindful of: Work on Richmond Avenue in Batavia is scheduled to begin next Wednesday, July 6th. Milling and paving as well as work on the sidewalk on the north side of the street will start the $2,650,000 project, from Oak Street to State Street. Once the North side is done the work will shift to the sidewalk on the south side from Oak to Ellicott Ave. No street closures are anticipated but delays should be expected.  Meanwhile, Governor Hochul has suspended construction-related lane closures for road and bridge work, to help ease travel during the holiday weekend. The temporary closures began this morning and will end at 6:00am on Tuesday, July 5.

The state Department of Health has issued a reminder to all New Yorkers about the dangers of fireworks. The agency says in order to prevent serious injury, people should only use legal sparkling devices and leave the use of other types of fireworks that are illegal to professionals. Data released by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission revealed there were over 15,000 fireworks-related injuries that required emergency department treatment in 2020, with many of them happening around July 4th. The health department is also recommending that people use earplugs when watching fireworks displays to help protect their hearing.

Lee Zeldin

Nick Langworthy

Coming off of his big primary victory earlier this week, the Republican nominee in the race for New York governor has made a stop in Buffalo. Long Island Congressman Lee Zeldin visited Erie County Republican headquarters yesterday where he was joined by state GOP Chairman Nick Langworthy. Zeldin is predicting that Governor Hochul will lose Erie County on Election Day and claims he’s already spoken with a lot of people who are upset with her. Should Zeldin win, he would become the first Republican to be elected as the Empire State’s governor since George Pataki.

With a lot of people expected to be on the roads for the Independence Day weekend, members of Genesee County law enforcement agencies as well as police across New York State, will be keeping a close eye out for drunk drivers. Travelers can expect to see increased police patrols as part of a STOP-DWI campaign that runs through Tuesday, July 5th. Folks who are planning to drink are urged to make sure they have a safe ride home. Anyone who sees suspicious or dangerous activity while they’re traveling should dial 911 immediately.

Erie County Fair

The start of the Erie County Fair is just a few weeks away, and today tickets for the popular event will go on sale. They can be bought by visiting the fair’s official website at ecfair.org, and adult admission is going to cost $13.50 when purchased online. Organizers say children 12 and under can get into the fair each day for free and there’s also going to be no cost for parking. This year’s fair gets underway in Hamburg on August 10th and it runs through August 21st.

Theirs, all theirs

Good news for someone from Western New York…The Winning CASH4LIFE Jackpot Ticket worth $1000 a day for life, was sold in Niagara Falls. The New York Lottery today announced one jackpot ticket was sold for the June 30 CASH4LIFE drawing. It was purchased at the Tops Markets, located on Niagara Falls Boulevard in Niagara Falls. The winning numbers are 6-9-20-31-34 and Cash Ball is 2.

No one has won the top Mega Millions prize in several weeks; all lotto players are hoping tonight is their lucky night. The jackpot up for grabs in this evening’s drawing will be $360,000,000. The cost of a ticket to play is $2.00, but the odds of picking all of the winning numbers are one in over 302,000,000. Tonight’s drawing will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

Governor Hochul signed new legislation Thursday that will make concert goers happy.  The legislation coined New York’s “Ticketing Law” bans hidden fees in live event tickets, establishes fines for scalper bots or illegal ticket purchasing software, bans the sale of tickets that were given out for free initially, and bans delivery fees on print at home tickets or e-tickets.  These potentially unfair and deceptive practices will hopefully make going to live events cheaper and less likely to be scammed.  

Do you have an electric vehicle?  Governor Hochul has just announced that EVolve NY charging stations will be free through the Independence day weekend.  This goes from midnight July 1st through Midnight July 5th.  There are about 100 of these stations throughout New York placed and maintained by the New York Power Authority.  Follow the link at WBTAi.com to see where they are.

https://evolveny.nypa.gov/

The Supreme Court decided not to make a decision in the case brought by health care workers against the State of New York on Thursday.  The case centers around the requirement for healthcare workers to get the COVID vaccination with no exemptions for religious reasons.  New York is one of only 3 states in the union that denies religious exemptions for the vaccine requirement.  3 Justices dissented in the decision not to take up the case.

The Canadian Government announced Thursday that the travel restrictions for COVID 19 will continue at least until September 30th.  Americans crossing the border must be fully vaccinated and are mandated to use the ArriveCAN app to submit information. They may also be subject to random arrival testing.  Representative Brian Higgins says that 2 and a half years of border restrictions, with most people being vaccinated on both sides of the border, are breaking the US Canada relationship and economies.

Genesee County Office for the Aging wants to apologize.  The coupons for seniors at the farmers market are not yet available because of a shipping delay.  They will start having coupons after July 5th and will post updates as soon as they get them.

The City of Batavia wants to replace the public lights throughout the city with LEDs but they don’t own them.  Through a contract with National Grid, the power company is responsible for keeping the lights on and their maintenance.  The City is voting to spend 226 thousand dollars to buy the lights, 948 of them, back from the power company.  The City Council wants to convert the lights to LEDs so they will last longer, provide more light, and more coverage.  City Manager Rachel Tabelski says that National Grid does a good job but it will be better to have more local control.

Work on Richmond Ave in Batavia is scheduled to begin July 6th.  Milling and paving as well as work on the sidewalk on the north side of the street will begin from Oak Street to State Street.  Once the North side is done the work will shift to the sidewalk on the south side from Oak to Ellicott Ave.  No street closures are anticipated but delays should be expected.

The investigation by State Police into the accident at West Main Street and Lewiston Roads continues today. According to police, a white vehicle was southbound on Lewiston Road, stopped at a light in the far left lane. A black car headed east on West Main Street crossed the centerline and both westbound lanes, striking the white vehicle. None of the four individuals sustained life-threatening injuries; three of them were taken by ambulance to Erie County Medical Center, the fourth, went via Mercy Flight helicopter. Anyone who witnessed the accident is asked to contact State Police.

Kelly Ashcraft

The 45-year-old woman who embezzled more than $105,000 from the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce has been sentenced to prison. Kelly Ashcraft will up to seven years for grand larceny, forgery and falsifying business records. A 25-year order of protection has also been issued. Warsaw Village Police arrested Ashcraft in January pursuant to their investigation. The embezzlement started in 2018. She was well-known throughout Wyoming County for her Chamber of Commerce role, which included conducting ribbon cuttings at new and expanding businesses. She had also been honored in 2019 with Alan B. Goodenow Memorial Award for Citizen of the Year, which is awarded to a person who has shown outstanding commitment and service to the Warsaw community.

Genesee County Sheriffs are continuing their investigation this afternoon, into a one-vehicle accident on Lockport Road in Elba. Deputies tell us the male driver of a truck with a camping trailer in tow, swerved to avoid hitting an animal in the roadway. When he did, he drove off the shoulder of the road and struck a tree. The accident caused the camper to break apart and debris covered a wide area behind the truck. The driver needed to be extricated from the vehicle. He had non-life threatening injuries but was transported to Erie County Medical Center due to serious injury to his lower body and legs.

Lawmakers are back at the State Capitol today for a special session that was ordered by Governor Hochul. The governor is asking the Senate and Assembly to consider several pieces of legislation after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the State’s conceal carry weapons law. The country’s highest court said last week that the rules for granting concealed-carry permits to gun owners violated the U.S. Constitution. Governor Hochul has proposed several measures including a requirement that people who have a history of dangerous behavior be banned from getting a concealed-carry permit.

Letitia James

State Attorney General Letitia James says a lawsuit has been filed against several national gun distributors who she claims have fueled the gun crisis and put the safety of New Yorkers at risk. Attorney James says these distributors have sold thousands of illegal, unfinished frames and receivers that were later turned into untraceable weapons known as ghost guns. James says illegal guns don’t belong on the streets and that her office will use every tool necessary to root them out. This year hundreds of ghost guns have already been seized.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and the Village of LeRoy Police Department will once again be participating in a coordinated effort with the STOP-DWI program to bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving. The increased efforts across New York start tomorrow and continue through Tuesday, July 5th. Police have made great strides during previous holiday weekends in reducing the number of alcohol and drug related fatalities, still too many lives are being lost because of crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers. Law enforcement reminds us that you can make a difference. Plan ahead to get a safe ride because impaired driving is completely preventable. Visit www.stopdwi.org for more information.

Mark Croce

Michael Capriotto

The National Transportation Safety Board has released its final report on the helicopter crash that killed Buffalo developer Mark Croce and Orchard Park businessman Michael Capriotto. The agency says Croce was flying the aircraft from Maryland to Buffalo Niagara International Airport in January 2020 when the helicopter encountered turbulence over Pennsylvania. At one point the helicopter flipped upside down which resulted in the main rotor blade striking and slicing the tail of the aircraft and caused it to break apart in midair. The report also said that Croce was neither incapacitated nor impaired at the time of the tragedy.

Today Attorney General Letitia James secured $400,000 from Wegmans, for exposing the personal information of more than three million consumers nationwide, including 830,000 New Yorkers. The compromised data included usernames and passwords for Wegmans accounts, as well as customers’ names, email addresses, mailing addresses, and additional data derived from drivers’ license numbers. As a result of Attorney General James’ action, Wegmans is also required to upgrade its data security practices to protect consumers. In June 2021, Wegmans began notifying affected consumers whose personal information was compromised during the incident. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) determined that, in addition to failing to appropriately configure the cloud storage containers to limit access to its contents, at the time of the incident, Wegmans failed to inventory its cloud assets containing personal information, secure all user passwords, and regularly conduct security testing of its cloud assets. In addition, Wegmans maintained checksums derived from customers’ driver’s license numbers without a reasonable business purpose to maintain any form of driver’s license information indefinitely. Wegmans also failed to maintain long-term logs of its cloud assets, which made it difficult to investigate security incidents.
As a result of today’s agreement, Wegmans is required to pay New York $400,000 in penalties. In addition, Wegmans must adopt new measures to protect consumers’ personal information going forward, including:
• Maintaining a comprehensive information security program that includes regular updates to keep pace with changes in technology and security threats and reporting security risks to the company’s leadership;
• Maintaining appropriate asset management practices, including maintaining an inventory of all cloud assets;
• Establishing policies and procedures to ensure all cloud assets containing personal information have appropriate access controls to limit access to such information;
• Developing a penetration testing program that includes at least one annual comprehensive penetration test of Wegmans’ cloud environment;
• Implementing centralized logging and monitoring of cloud asset activity, including logs that are readily accessible for a period of at least 90 days and stored for at least one year from the date the activity was logged;
• Establishing appropriate password policies and procedures for customer accounts, including hashing stored passwords with a hashing algorithm and salting policy commensurate with NIST standards, encouraging customers to use strong passwords, educating customers on the benefits of multifactor authentication, and prohibiting password reuse;
• Maintaining a reasonable vulnerability disclosure program that allows third parties, such as security researchers, to disclose vulnerabilities;
• Establishing appropriate practices for customer account management and authentication, including notice, a security challenge, or re-authentication for account changes; and,
• Updating its data collection and retention practices, including only collecting a customer’s personal information when there is a reasonable business purpose for collection and deleting personal information when there is no longer a reasonable business purpose to retain such information — for information collected prior to the effective date of the agreement, Wegmans will permanently delete all personal information for which no reasonable purpose exists within 240 days of the effective date.

Getting guns off the streets has been part of the anti gun violence initiative for Governor Hochul and state lawmakers.  Wednesday they announced how that initiative has increased seizures of ghost guns and the state police have also upped their game on seizing illegal weapons.  State Troopers have seized 662 guns, a 98 percent increase from last year at this time.  And ghost gun seizures are up 38 percent.  Hochul is also planning a special legislature session to combat the Supreme Court’s decision that New York’s law prohibiting licensed gun owners from carrying outside the home unless they can provide a reason for needing protection was unconstitutional.  That extraordinary session meets today.

New York Attorney General Letitia James called on Mega Corporation Google to change how Women’s Pregnancy Centers or Crisis Pregnancy Centers which don’t offer abortions show up in the search engine results.  Attorney General James expressed grave concerns regarding the failure of Google Maps to distinguish between facilities that offer abortion services and those that do not, which could lead individuals seeking abortions to visit crisis pregnancy centers for care.  James said that CPCs can cause individuals to face dangerous and harmful situations and accused them of being misleading and spreading misinformation.  Crisis Pregnancy Centers outnumber abortion providers by roughly 10 to 1 in most states in the US.  Often they are 501c3 or privately funded organizations that offer adoption services, education, ultrasounds, diapers, formula and mental health counseling services and are usually pro-life.  Organizations such as CompassCare and Care-Net have urged Hochul and James not to take steps such as these as they have been violently targeted by domestic terrorist organizations and are afraid of more attacks spurred on by anti Crisis Pregnancy Center Rhetoric.

The CEO of the large copying company Xerox, founded in Rochester in 1906, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday.  John Visentin was 59 years old and died of complications from an ongoing illness.  Xerox moved to Connecticut but maintains a sizeable campus in Webster.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation announced an Albion man broke the New York State smallmouth bass record with an 8.6-pound catch on Cayuga Lake.  The NYSDEC said on June 15 Thomas Russell Jr. reeled in an eight-pound, six-ounce smallmouth bass from Cayuga Lake in Seneca County which surpassed the previous record by two ounces.

Starting Friday the New York STOP DWI taskforce will be out working to keep drivers safe through the 4th of July Weekend.  They are working with the Genesee County Sheriffs.  Police will be maintaining higher visibility and urge people celebrating the country’s freedoms to have a plan on how to get home.  There is no need for a celebration to turn into a tragedy. 

The investigation by State Police continues this afternoon following a serious motor vehicle accident at the intersection of West Main Street and Lewiston Road. There were two people in each vehicle and all four were taken to Erie County Medical Center; one of the individuals had possible life-threatening injuries and was flown in by Mercy Flight helicopter. One vehicle stopped on the grass in the triangle between West Main Street and Lewiston, and the other vehicle stopped partly over the curb and partly in Lewiston Road.

43-year-old Andrew Draper and 45-year-old Crystal Mounts both of Batavia are each charged with petit larceny after a theft from Walmart in Batavia. Draper and Mounts were transported to the Genesee County Jail for prints and photos and were issued appearance tickets. They’re scheduled to return to Batavia Town Court early next month. Draper was additionally charged with criminal contempt after being found to be in contact with a person who had a full stay away order of protection against him.

At least some adults in the country may get updated COVID-19 shots this fall, as government advisers voted yesterday that it’s time to tweak booster doses to better match the most recent virus variants. Advisers to the Food and Drug Administration wrestled with how to modify doses now when there’s no way to know how the rapidly mutating virus will evolve by fall – especially since people who get today’s recommended boosters remain strongly protected against COVID-19’s worst outcomes. The logistics will be challenging. Many Americans haven’t had their first vaccinations yet, including young children who just became eligible – and it’s not clear whether tweaked boosters eventually might lead to a change in the primary vaccine. But the FDA’s advisers said it’s important to go ahead and study updated vaccine recipes in children, too. And a third company, Novavax, is awaiting FDA authorization of a more traditional kind of COVID-19 vaccine, protein-based shots. Novavax argued Tuesday that a booster of its regular vaccine promises a good immune response against the new omicron mutants without a recipe change. Advisers to the World Health Organization recently said omicron-tweaked shots would be most beneficial as a booster only, because they should increase the breadth of people’s cross-protection against multiple variants. The FDA will have to decide the exact recipe, but expect a combination shot that adds protection against either omicron or some of its newer relatives to the original vaccine.

GLOW With Your Hands is on the search for volunteers to help support the day long, hands-on career exploration event for GLOW Region students, scheduled for September 27. Annually, the event averages roughly 100 volunteers, with 50 – 75 individuals working directly with the students. Some volunteers will be paired with students individually for assistance. There are several skilled trades and fields that students can learn more about, including agriculture, bricklaying, electrical wiring and heavy-equipment operation. Additional information and volunteer applications are available here: https://www.glowwithyourhands.com/volunteer.

Kim Pegula

The co-owner of the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres is continuing to recover after recently experiencing an unexpected health issue. The family of Kim Pegula released a statement yesterday saying that she is resting and rehabilitating but didn’t reveal any additional information about her condition. They also said they were grateful for the care she has received and thanked everyone who has sent well wishes. Pegula and her husband Terry have owned the Sabres since 2011 and they purchased the Bills in 2014.

Kathy Hochul

Lee Zeldin

The race for New York governor is now down to two candidates after Governor Hochul and Long Island Congressman Lee Zeldin win their respective primaries. Hochul secured the Democratic nomination by beating New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and Long Island Congressman Tom Suozzi yesterday. Zeldin, a Republican, came out on top against Andrew Giuliani, businessman Harry Wilson, and former Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino. Hochul is now one step closer to winning a full four-year term but Zeldin will try and defeat her to become the first Republican to be elected as the Empire State’s governor since George Pataki. Election Day is set for Tuesday, November 8th.

Letitia James

The state Attorney General’s office has teamed up with law firms and reproductive rights groups to launch a new legal hotline. The hotline will provide guidance and resources to patients and healthcare providers who are looking for information on their legal rights to access and provide abortions. The hotline is available free of charge and can be reached by calling 212-899-5567. Attorney General Letitia James says now that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe v. Wade it is important to ensure people have access to safe abortions.

Byron Brown

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown has taken a tour of the remodeled Tops store that was the scene of a mass shooting last month where 10 people were killed. Brown was joined on his visit to the Jefferson Avenue location yesterday by the president of the supermarket chain. Brown says he feels good about the changes that have been made so far and that the store is still expected to reopen by the end of July. The man accused of carrying out the shooting, 18-year-old Peyton Gendron, is behind bars without bail.

The state Department of Transportation says a construction project in Monroe County began today. According to the agency, drivers can expect to have to deal with delays due to single-lane closures along Interstate 490 westbound in the area of Exit 26 in Perinton. Exit 26 connecting westbound traffic on I-490 to State Route 31 will still remain open. Construction is scheduled to continue through August and more information can be found by visiting 511ny.org.

The Genesee County Office for the Aging will be giving out coupons at the farmers markets in Batavia and Leroy starting this Friday from 10 am to noon. Every Friday they will be at the Alva Place farmer’s Market. They will also be handing them out at the Genesee County Office for the Aging, 2 Bank St., Batavia, every Tuesday in July from 10 a.m. to noon at the outside patio and in the Community Room if it is raining.

The Primary results are in after voting took place on Tuesday.  In the democratic primary for Governor, Hochul pulled in over 433 thousand votes for a 65 percent win.  Suozzi only got 12 percent with 82 thousand votes and Williams came in with 21 percent, 140 thousand votes.  In the Republican Primary for the governors seat Zeldin led the pack with just over 107 thousand votes which got him 42 percent.  Wilson had 15 percent with 37.5 thousand and Astorino got 45 thousand for 17 percent.  Giuliani had 63 thousand votes for nearly 25 percent.  Antonio Delgado won the Lt Governor position with 57 percent of the votes. Democratic commentators were quick to point out that the democrats showed up in much larger numbers for the vote, over 650 thousand democrats voted vs just over 250 thousand for the republicans.

Batavia PD is looking for the public’s assistance in identifying a man who is suspected of stealing more than $350 of Allegra from the CVS pharmacy on East Main Street.  The larceny took place today a little before noon.  The suspect was last seen getting into the passenger seat of a white-colored SUV. It left the area heading westbound.  If anyone recognizes the person pictured, please notify investigating Officer Nicole McGinnis by calling (585) 345-6350.

The Fix is in, Erik Fix that is.  Batavia City Manager Rachel Tabelski announced that the President of the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, Erik Fix has been appointed the new City of Batavia Assistant Manager. Some of his responsibilities will include creating and implementing a new Neighborhood and Housing Transformation initiative, community development, public relations and information technology. In a letter Fix submitted to Chamber members, he noted his last day as president of the Chamber would be July 22.

After 2 bidding cycles there is still no contractor for the work needing to be done to revitalize Jackson Square.  The last low bidder, Mark Cerrone Inc. raised prices by almost 25 percent after winning the contract.  Cerrone had bid 654 thousand dollars for the project and then delivered a bill of 847 thousand.  The other bids were 870 thousand and over a million. The Revitalization Committee decided to rescind the offer to Cerrone.

If you are a senior and you like the farmers market then you are in luck.  The Genesee County Office for the Aging will be giving out coupons at the farmers markets in Batavia and Leroy starting this Friday from 10 am to noon.  Every Friday they will be at the Alva Place farmer’s Market and Saturday the 2nd, 23rd and 30th they will be at Trigon Park.  They will also be handing them out at the Genesee County Office for the Aging, 2 Bank St., Batavia, every Tuesday in July from 10 a.m. to noon at the outside patio and in the Community Room if it is raining.

Erik Fix

Batavia City Manager Rachel Tabelski announced that the President of the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, Erik Fix has been appointed the new City of Batavia Assistant Manager. Some of his responsibilities will include creating and implementing a new Neighborhood and Housing Transformation initiative, community development, public relations and information technology. In a letter Fix submitted to Chamber members, he noted his last day as president of the Chamber would be July 22.

Vidalia Onions

Wegmans has issued a recall involving vidalia onions that were sold at its stores in our region. The supermarket chain says there are concerns the onions may be contaminated with listeria, which is a bacteria that has been known to cause serious illness. The affected onions were sold by the pound from June 23rd through June 24th and may have PLU stickers with the numbers 4159 or 4166 on them. Anyone who purchased the onions can return them for a full refund.

New Yorkers are heading to the polls today to decide who will be the nominees in the race for governor. For the Democrats, Governor Hochul, New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, and Long Island Congressman Tom Suozzi are hoping they’ve earned enough support to win. For the Republicans, Long Island Congressman Lee Zeldin, Andrew Giuliani, businessman Harry Wilson, and former Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino are looking to be the GOP nominee. Primaries are also being held today for seats in the state Assembly and for lieutenant governor. Polls are open until 9:00pm.

37-year-old Marvin Barber, Jr. of Lackawanna, is charged with harassment, criminal possession of a weapon, menacing and grand larceny….stemming from a reported disturbance on Lewis Place; Barber had left the scene but eventually turned himself in to police custody. He was arrested and arraigned in City Court and ordered held in the Genesee County Jail.  Also, 52-year-old Daniel Yates of Batavia is charged with criminal tampering and criminal mischief. He is accused of damaging property inside Tops Market and was issued an appearance ticket.

Jackson Square

There is plenty to do over the long holiday weekend in Batavia: On Friday, the Jackson Square concert series continues with the “Old Hippies;” the Muckdogs play at Dwyer Stadium. Also on Friday is “Rockin’ the Downs” with the Led Zeppelin tribute band “Get the Led Out.” Saturday the Batavia Ramble Explore Arts & Music Festival will be held at Jackson Square. Live bands, cultural dances, hands-on arts and crafts, and more will run from 10:00am to 9:00pm. And then on Sunday, there is another Muckdogs game at 7:05. And on Monday, the 4th, the Kiwanis Club 5k starts at 9:00am in Centennial Park. By the way, there will be no fireworks at the Downs this year due to the construction on Park Road.

Toronto skyline

For the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Amtrak service from New York State to Toronto has resumed. The Maple Leaf line connects several locations to Toronto, including Niagara Falls. Passengers who are traveling to Toronto by train will need to use the ArriveCAN app and also must wear a mask while on-board and inside train stations. For a full list of schedules and fares, visit amtrak.com.

A Rochester couple is in trouble with the law after being arrested in connection with recent catalytic converter thefts in Onondaga County. According to State Police, 25-year-old Brittany Hollaert and 31-year-old Vasiliy Maksimchuk took 17 of those devices from vehicles at the Drivers Village Auto Mall, which is located in Cicero. Troopers also claim the pair were involved in similar thefts in the Rochester area. Both suspects are facing multiple charges including grand larceny and criminal mischief.

Luz Pena

A poll worker has admitted that she pre-stamped the name of Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown on several ballots last year. Yesterday, 59-year-old Luz Pena pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge in Buffalo City Court. Prosecutors say Luz pre-stamped the ballots back in November 2021 while she was working at a polling place inside the Belle Center on Maryland Avenue in Buffalo. Brown was a write-in candidate in the mayoral race and ended up beating India Walton to remain in office. As part of her plea agreement, Luz was given an unconditional discharge and ordered to pay a fine.

Primary day is here in New York State.  Running in New York for governor are Democrats Kathy Hochul, Tom Suozzi, and Jumaane Williams.  For the Republicans Rob Astorino, Andrew Giuliani, Harry Wilson and Lee Zeldin are vying for the Governor nomination.  3 Democrats are also running for Lieutenant Governor, Ana Maria Archila, Antonio Delgado and Diana Reyna.  Polls will be open from 6 to 9 today.  Congressional and State Senate primaries are going to be held on August 23rd this year due to redistricting of New York’s election map.

Governor Hochul has announced what she is planning to do about the Supreme Court’s decision striking down New York’s law about needing a stated reason to concealed carry a pistol outside the home.  She is planning to put forward measures that would allow businesses to declare themselves a gun free zone by posting a sign near the entrance.  Hochul says this will allow restaurants and other places of business to make their customers feel safe knowing if there are concealed firearms or not near them.  Previously, the only dedicated gun free zones were airports, federal and state buildings and lands including state parks, schools and daycares and public campgrounds.

Fourth of July Weekend is right at the end of the week and there is a lot to do in Batavia.  Friday the Jackson Square concert series continues with the “Old Hippies” while the Muckdogs play at Dwyer Stadium.  Competing with the Jackson Square series is “Rockin’ the Downs” with the Led Zeppelin tribute band “Get the Led Out.”  Saturday will also bring the family fun all day and night long with the Batavia Ramble Explore Arts & Music Fest downtown in Jackson Square. Live bands, cultural dances, hands-on arts and crafts, and more will run from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.  Sunday There is another Muckdogs game at 7:05.  And The 4th itself starts off with some exercise at the Kiwanis Club 5k starting in Centennial Park.  No fireworks at the Downs this year due to the construction on Park Road.

Everybody has blood, and if you are injured, you might need more of it.  The Red Cross is reminding the public of the increased need for blood during the summer months as more people skip giving to go on vacations and are just generally out of town and not thinking about donating.  They are seeking more donors and more volunteers for their blood drives.  There is a blood drive today at the American Legion in Batavia from 2 to 7pm and another tomorrow at St James Episcopal Church.  There will be 4 more through July in Batavia.  Walk Ins are welcome.

New York Bus Sales broke ground on their new 20 thousand square foot facility on West Saile Drive and Call Parkway on Monday.  The regional director for National Grid, Ken Kujawa, Batavia Town Supervisor Greg Post, Genesee County Legislature Chairwoman Shelley Stein, Assemblyman Hawley and Senator Rath were all part of the groundbreaking ceremony.  The 4.5 million dollar building will house the offices, training space and repair and storage areas for the company in this area.   It is intended to support school districts and bus operators across Genesee County and the Western New York and Finger Lakes regions to convert their fleets from diesel fuel to all-electric.  The project has also pledged to create 24 full-time jobs.  One of the first electric school buses will be delivered this summer to the Lake Shore School District in Erie County.

By now you may have heard that the only independently owned pharmacy in Batavia, Alberty Drug Store, is in the process of closing. Beginning this week, they will only be open to fill prescriptions, which will be the case until sometime in July. The detailed story is available at the website of our news partner, The Batavian. A direct link to the story is available here: https://www.thebatavian.com/howard-b-owens/during-its-100th-year-in-business-alberty-drugs-is-closing-next-month/609482

Western New York drivers woke up this morning to find a nearly 3% decrease in the per-gallon price at the pumps, that’s since a week ago today. According to Triple A this morning, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $4.86 in our region. The state average is now sitting at $4.96 a gallon and the national average is $4.90. In Batavia, the average price per gallon is $4.88. The average price for diesel here is the same as it was a week ago, $6.26 per gallon.

Early voting for tomorrow’s primary election has wrapped up, with election officials reporting an increase in voting over last year. The period lasted nine days and ended yesterday. According to a poll conducted by Survey USA, Lee Zeldin is leading the pack in the Republican primaries with Andrew Giuliani close behind. Both have nearly 25% of the vote each with Wilson and Astorino lagging behind in the teens and single digits. 31 percent of republican voters are still undecided. In the democrat primary Governor Hochul is far ahead of her challengers Suozzi and Williams. Tomorrow, polls will be open from 6:00am until 9:00pm tomorrow night.

31-year-old Brianna Way of Batavia has been arrested for assault and endangering the welfare of a child, following a child abuse investigation conducted by detectives and Genesee County Child Protective Services. Way is accused of punching and kicking a 9-year-old child, causing injury, shoving the child’s head as punishment and forcing the child to watch a TV-MA (mature audiences only; no one under 17 should view) child-murder documentary titled, “The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez,” while telling the child it could be them. Way was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on her own recognizance following the issuance of an order of protection. Also, 36-year-old Maurice Bishop of Rochester was arrested on charges of criminal contempt. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released under the supervision of Genesee Justice. A temporary stay away order of protection was issued protecting the victim in this case. Bishop’s return court date is scheduled for early next month.

30-year-old Jordan Reese of Elba has been charged with endangering the welfare of a child and criminal mischief following a domestic incident. Reese allegedly physically injured an infant and destroyed property. Reese was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and will appear in Elba Town Court later next month. Also, 42-year-old David Choromanski of Byron, has been charged with criminal mischief and endangering the welfare of a child after a domestic incident. Choromanski allegedly damaged property belonging to another person in the presence of a child. Choromanski was arraigned in Le Roy Town Court and released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to appear in Byron Town Court in July.

A bipartisan gun control package is now law. President Biden signed the legislation into law Saturday after receiving it from the Senate late Thursday. The act enhances background checks, provides funding for mental health services, prevents convicted domestic abusers from purchasing a weapon for five years, as well as creates penalties for gun trafficking, among other measures. It’s the first significant gun control legislation passed in 30 years, and follows devastating mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde, Texas.

Okay fine, I’ll share

The Powerball and Mega Millions jackpots continue climbing, bringing tonight’s total winnings to more than $346,000,000 dollars. Nobody matched all six numbers in Saturday night’s drawing, which included the Mega Millions “gold ball” or Powerball. Tickets cost $2.00 each; drawings are always streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

National Fuel logo

National Fuel is turning gas services back on in the Southtowns neighborhoods. Service was temporarily suspended on Saturday due to an issue with mercaptan, also known as the rotten eggs smell that is added to natural gas to help detect a leak. National Fuel says odorant pumps from a compressor station were pumping twice the typical level of mercaptan into the gas system, which is why residents were reporting the smell.

The Genesee County Branch of the Democratic Socialists held a rally in front of Batavia City Hall Sunday afternoon to protest the Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v Wade and Planned Parenthood v Casey.  The decision sends the abortion debate back to the states to decide what to make legal and illegal.  Previously the court decisions established a trimester system and stopped states from making any laws that prohibited abortion in the first 12 weeks and allowed regulation but not outright bans in the second trimester.  In New York Aborotion is legal up to the birth of the baby as long as a medical professional deems it necessary.  The protesters held signs saying slogans such as “my body my choice,” “Pro life is not pro birth,” and “abortion is healthcare” along with many signs accusing pro life people of racism among other things.

Police have been on the lookout for illicit sales of Catalytic converters after a rash of thefts from parked cars.  An Albion man, 31 year old Joshua Grosskopf, allegedly stole a catalytic converter from a truck parked on West Lee Rd in Barre and tried to sell it to Metalico Scrap Yard in Rochester when he was apprehended by New York State Troopers.  He faces a charge of fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property and is expected to be in Barre Town Court in July.

Survey USA, a polling company which works with media, corporate, non profits and the government, has released their findings from a poll showing that Lee Zeldin is leading the pack in the Republican primaries although Andrew Giuliani is close behind him.  Both have nearly 25 percent of the vote each with Wilson and Astorino lagging behind in the teens and single digits.  31 percent of republican voters are still undecided.  In the democrat primary Governor Hochul is far ahead of her challengers Suozzi and Williams.  The primaries are on June 28th.  

Spots are still open for Environmental Science Camp at the Genesee County Park & Forest! This hands-on outdoor camp is for students entering 7th – 10th grade. Camp meets Monday through Friday, July 18th – 22nd from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Interpretive Nature Center. This week-long adventure includes survival skills, wildlife and stream studies, outdoor recreation, a field trip and more! Cost is $95/camper for the entire week. All materials and a camp T-shirt are provided. Transportation is provided from Batavia High School to and from camp each day.

With the Supreme Court striking down the 1973 case of Roe V Wade and the 1992 case of Planned Parenthood v Casey on Friday several groups took to the street in Western NY to either protest or celebrate.  In Batavia GLOW4Babies along with several people from the Ascension and Resurrection Parishes came together in front of Planned Parenthood holding signs saying Choose Life, Love Will End Abortion and signs commemorating the overturning of Roe V Wade.  Governor Hochul pledges to fight the ruling and keep New York a haven for abortion.  Michele Sterlace Executive Director of Feminists Choose Life of New York, says she hopes to be able to help those traveling to New York look into alternatives before they make it to an abortion clinic.  The group Jane’s Revenge which claimed responsibility for the vandalism and firebombing of the Amherst Women’s Pregnancy Center Compasscare, said that they were readying a night of rage where more violence would be done across the country in  response to the court ruling.

Governor Hochul signed a new law into effect that is designed to make schools a little bit safer from School Shooters.  Alyssa’s Law makes it so public schools have to consider adding a silent alarm system for the school as part of their school safety plan.  School districts such as Niagara Falls are taking it further than just a silent alarm, Niagara Falls City School District Superintendent Mark Laurrie says Alyssa’s Law is a step forward but they are adding vestibules in every school so there is a 2 step process to enter the building and a door alarm that rings if doors are propped open more than a few seconds.  

Buffalo Police are investigating vandalism at St Margaret’s Roman Catholic Church on Hertel Ave in Buffalo.  Someone smashed statues and broke garden pots at the back of the church between 10pm on Wednesday and 9am on Thursday.  The heads of several statues were broken off and put at the feet of the statue.  

Do you wanna go fishing but don’t have a license?  All weekend fishing is free in the State of New York.  During designated free fishing days, New Yorkers and visitors to the state are permitted to fish for free without a fishing license.  Upcoming free fishing days in 2022 include National Hunting and Fishing Day on September 24 and Veterans Day on November 11. 

Seneca Park Zoo has announced it is offering 1 dollar entry to the zoo for low income families.  This comes after Monroe County Executive Adam Bello signed legislation reducing prices for income eligible families as part of a national program called Museums For All.  In order to get the reduced price, individuals and families have to show a SNAP or EBT card along with a valid ID. The George Eastman House Museum and the Rochester Museum and Science Center are also part of this program.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Department is investigating why a car went off the road in Pembroke and struck a parked van in the Kutter’s Cheese Factory Store parking lot. The accident occurred late yesterday afternoon. The elderly male driver was extricated and was in and out of consciousness when he was transported by Mercy Flight to Erie County Medical Center after having suffered life-threatening injuries. The elderly female passenger had serious, but non-life-threatening injuries and was also transported to ECMC by a second Mercy Flight helicopter. The driver may have suffered a medical issue before the crash.

Around 2:00am this morning, a 2017 Toyota 4-Runner was operating at a high rate of speed eastbound on Chestnut Street but then failed to stop for the stop sign at the South Jackson Street intersection and was going too fast to navigate safely. After shearing a National Grid pole in two places, the vehicle finally stopped in the front porch of a S. Jackson Street home. Initial reports from witnesses indicated four passengers including the driver fled on foot. Officers identified 4 other passengers who remained on scene. One of the passengers suffered a minor injury and was transported to UMMC by Mercy EMS. Additional passengers were transported to UMMC by private vehicles for evaluations. All occupants of the vehicle have been identified and the accident remains under investigation. Most occupants of the vehicle were minors including the alleged driver. Alcohol and marijuana are believed to be a contributing factor in the accident. Charges are pending.  Security video camera footage, along with the detailed story, are both available at the website of our news partner, The Batavian:  https://www.thebatavian.com/howard-b-owens/driver-flees-after-suv-strikes-utility-pole-on-south-jackson-batavia-at-2-am/609286

Shelby Fire Truck

Police have identified the victim of Tuesday’s fire on Freeman Road in Shelby. 22-year-old Michael Cherry, who had trouble walking and was trapped in an upstairs bedroom, was found dead in the upstairs of the house he shared with his father, aunt, uncle and brother; this, according to Orleans County Sheriff’s Major Rob Reimer. Michael’s 29-year-old brother Daniel Cherry suffered serious injuries, including smoke inhalation and was taken by Mercy Flight to Erie County Medical Center. Their father, 74-year-old Roger Cherry, was treated for smoke inhalation at a local hospital and released. The house was full of clutter, which restricted firefighter efforts to get inside to save Michael Cherry. Shelby Fire Chief Jason Watts said both front doors were boarded and blocked from the inside. A rear door entry was full of clutter, as well. The cause of the fire was determined to be a toaster oven in the kitchen. Reimer said Daniel Cherry was cooking and cardboard near the toaster oven caught fire.

Alberty Drugs will close its doors for good after 100 years in business in the City of Batavia; employees have been busy cleaning out the nearly empty shelves inside the store, which closes for good next week. It will be closed on Saturday and reopen on Monday 6/27 at 9:00am. There is no word as to which day they will close next week. If you have a current prescription at the pharmacy, ask to have your doctor write a new prescription to start with a new pharmacy as current prescriptions are not being transferred to a different pharmacy. The owners of Alberty Drugs will continue to run Mead Square Pharmacy in Victor.

Onofhil (“Tony”) Nieves

The search for a jet skier who was reported missing last weekend has come to a sad end. According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, the body of 43-year-old Onofhil Nieves was found yesterday in Lake Ontario near Durand Beach. Crews had been looking for Nieves for several days after he disappeared last Saturday. In a statement, the sheriff’s department expressed its condolences to Nieves’ family and friends during this difficult time.

New Yorkers who want to cast their ballots ahead of the upcoming primary are running out of time to do so. The early voting period that began last Saturday is coming to an end on Sunday. There are primary contests being held for statewide races including governor, lieutenant governor and state Assembly. Primary day is Tuesday, June 28th and polls on that day will be open from 6:00am until 9:00pm.

Fake $20 bill

Fake $20 bill

Medina Police tell us that they have received information of attempts to pass counterfeit money labeled “motion picture use only.” Businesses and cashiers should visually check all bills carefully. Photos provided by the Village of Medina Police Department.

Vanessa Armstead

A Buffalo woman who stole an ambulance in Utica last year before crashing it in the Rochester area has pleaded guilty to a grand larceny charge. Yesterday, Vanessa Armstead admitted to taking the ambulance from a garage after she had been released from the hospital following a car crash. Armstead then led police on a pursuit that came to an end when she drove the ambulance into the Irondequoit Bay. Armstead had to be rescued from the water and is facing up to nine years in prison when she’s sentenced in August.

No one has been lucky enough to win the Mega Millions or Powerball lately and that means the jackpots for both games are still growing. There will be $312,000,000 up for grabs in tonight’s Mega Millions drawing and whoever picks the winning numbers for Powerball tomorrow night will win at least $335,000,000. Tickets to play are $2.00 each. Both drawings will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

The Buffalo Police Department has released body camera footage of an officer-involved shooting that happened last week. Officials say the incident occurred after 27-year-old Nakeem Hayes allegedly shot and killed 63-year-old Atlas Johnson near Broadway and Sears Street last Friday night. When police approached Hayes, he jumped on the hood of their vehicle and opened fire but didn’t hit anyone. The officers ran after Hayes who was shot several times and is facing an attempted murder charge. Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia said yesterday he believes video of the encounter between Hayes and police shows the actions the officers took were within the confines of the law and department policy.

Tyler Prospero

Starting pitcher Tyler Prospero from Batavia, took his first loss of the season, as The Batavia Muckdogs dropped a home game last night to the Newark Pilots 7-5. The Muckdogs are now 10-4 on the season, in second place in the West Division, two games behind Utica.

A medical issue may be to blame for a crash involving a car and a parked van in Pembroke on Thursday evening.  At around 5:45 a car being driven by an elderly man was going east on Main Road in Pembroke when it left the road and struck a van that was parked at Kutter’s Cheese Factory Store.  The driver was extricated by Pembroke and Indian Falls Firefighters and was in and out of consciousness.  He was flown to ECMC by Mercy Flight with life threatening injuries.  The elderly female passenger had non-life threatening injuries and was flown by a second helicopter.  The reason for the crash is under investigation but the driver may have suffered a medical issue which caused the car to veer off the road.

The US Supreme court struck down a gun law in New York State that required people getting a concealed carry license to have a stated reason for wanting a license.  In a 6-3 decision the court found that there was no Constitutional right that required a stated reason to be articulated before the citizen was allowed to exercise that right.  Governor Hochul said that this is a “a deeply disturbing day” and said that this would cause gun violence to increase.  Law enforcement including Peter Kehoe, Executive director of the New York State Sheriffs Association, said this won’t increase violence and most people who shoot others or shoot at police have handguns illegally.  Chief Long of the Gates police department said “I can’t remember the last time we arrested a permit carrying member of our community who used it in any sort of crime.”

Batavia Downs took in nearly 90 million dollars in the month of May according to the Chief Financial Officer for Western Regional Off Track Betting Corp.  6.4 million was paid back in winnings with 31.6 million paid back so far this year.  Half of that number gets taken by the New York State gaming Commission which puts 90 percent of its share towards education.  The casino gives a portion of its income to 15 counties and Rochester and Buffalo.  In 2021 Genesee County got 123,409 dollars.  

Gubernatorial Candidate Lee Zeldin is set to have a rally in Batavia at the old courthouse.  Today at around noon he is planning a Save Our State rally.  Zeldin, from Long Island, is running as a republican on the platform of bringing people back to the Empire State and reducing regulations and taxes.  He has visited Batavia before to talk with business leaders about what they need from a governor.  

GCC is getting some new improvements thanks to Genesee County agreeing to a request for 1.3 million dollars in funding for capital projects.   A new turf field, cooling tower, arts center connector and a roof for Conable Technology Building, costing a total of 2.6 million dollars will be built with half the money being paid by Genesee county and the other by New York State.  The turf field will be a replacement for the nearly 13-year-old soccer and lacrosse field adjacent to Richard C. Call Arena; a new cooling tower would replace one that is “well past its useful life,”while an updated connective corridor will be situated between original buildings, from the cafeteria to the fine arts building and theater. A new roof for the Conable Technology Building would shore up one that was part of the original 2000 structure, which has developed leaks.

Fantasia Speed

Dontaya Kyles

21-year-old Fantasia Speed of Rochester and 30-year-old Dontaya Kyles of Greece, are each charged with grand larceny in the 3rd degree with property value exceeding $3,000, after an investigation into a larceny complaint at the Walmart on Veteran’s Memorial Drive on June 20. Speed and Kyles allegedly passed all points of purchase without paying for the merchandise. Speed was additionally charged with conspiracy and arrested on a warrant for criminal possession of stolen property. Kyles was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance. She will re-appear in Batavia Town Court on August 8th.

Raccoon

Two Attica residents have been fined $500 each for keeping a raccoon as a pet; because raccoons are at higher risk than other animals for contracting rabies, they’re considered a dangerous wild animal in New York State. The man and his girlfriend reportedly took the animal to a pet store to get food and supplies; one of the store’s employees contacted authorities. Using store surveillance cameras and license plate information, The Department of Environmental Conservation tracked them down. The animal tested negative for rabies.  Photo provided by The Department of Environmental Conservation.

Shelby Fire Truck

Clutter both outside and inside a burning house significantly hampered firemen’s efforts to get inside and save a 22-year-old man. The fire on Freeman Road in Shelby was believed to have started in the kitchen; upon first responders’ arrival, they assisted to rescue three individuals hanging outside a window; two were okay once safely out of the house, however one of the individuals was transported to the Erie County Medical Center by Mercy Flight helicopter. When firemen attempted to access the house to assist the man still inside, they found both of the front doors were boarded over, with cabinets and other debris in front. The only other access to the house was in the rear, where there was so much clutter firemen couldn’t get inside. Once debris was cleared and firefighters could enter, they found the man had died.

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has lowered the Covid community level for both Genesee and Orleans counties from medium to low. The two counties were both put in the high community level about two months ago. But the confirmed Covid cases have steadily been dropping. Orleans reported 15 cases total from June 15 to 21, which was down from 36 the week before. Genesee reported 34 cases, down from 43 the previous week. To put this in perspective, Genesee County had 278 cases during the third week of April.

Chris Jacobs

Brian Higgins

Two local congressmen are casting doubts over President Biden’s call for a gas tax holiday to help manage rising gas prices. Buffalo Congressman Brian Higgins and Orchard Park Congressman Chris Jacobs say something needs to be done to help ease the pain at the pump for consumers but pausing the federal gas tax is not the way to do it. Higgins, a Democrat, says a recent survey shows the temporary suspension of the state gas tax has not had a substantial impact on local gas prices. And Jacobs, a Republican, calls it a band-aid on the real problem.

Tomorrow there will be some road construction for you to stay mindful of…delays will occur during the second phase of paving work on Columbia, Seneca and Miller Avenues. The work is scheduled for tomorrow from 7:00am to 3:00pm. Stretches of each avenue will be closed to all through traffic during times of roadwork. Local traffic will be permitted to and from their property but should plan accordingly for delays and there is no parking on the street when work is underway. The project is weather dependent. If work is postponed it shall progress the next workday. Call the Bureau of Maintenance at (585) 345-6400 Option 1 for more information.

40-year-old Lauren Kay Pellegrino of West Main Street, Le Roy, is charged with assault and menacing. She is accused of assaulting another person on June 20 and has been arrested and arraigned in Le Roy Town Court. She was released on her own recognizance and an order of protection was issued for her alleged victim.

The U.S. Department of Education has announced that Genesee Community College’s TRiO Upward Bound Program will receive a 5-year, $3 million federal Upward Bound grant to be equally divided between Genesee and Wyoming counties. The funding will provide opportunities to assist more low-income students who would be the first members of their families to earn degrees, to prepare for and enroll in college. Upward Bound is an intensive intervention program that prepares students for higher education through various enrichment courses. At least two-thirds of the students in each local Upward Bound program are from low-income economic backgrounds and families in which neither parent has a bachelor’s degree. GCC’s Upward Bound program services seven schools in Genesee and Wyoming Counties.

Rochester New York

A survey says Rochester is among the worst run cities in the nation. The survey comes from the financial website WalletHub. It evaluated the top 150 cities in the United States according to credit rating, debt, crime rate and other categories. Rochester fell to Number 13 among the lowest-ranked cities. Washington D-C and San Francisco ranked at the bottom because of their city debt per capita.

Dr Lydia T Wright School of Excellence

Parents of students attending Dr. Lydia T. Wright School are upset that many in the graduating class didn’t move on to high school. Earlier this week, parents learned only eight of the 65 eighth grade students at the school would be graduating. Then Tuesday, administrators said the number grew to 17 and yesterday, 39 students took part in graduation ceremonies. Parents say they were never notified that their children were not moving up. Administrators now say another ceremony may be held tomorrow to graduate students who were not part yesterday’s ceremony.

The City of Henrietta has rejected a request for a permit by Planned Parenthood to operate a clinic in the city. Last week, New York State had expanded legal protections for people seeking and providing abortion. But at a packed meeting last night, the Henrietta Town Board narrowly voted down the request by Planned Parenthood. Last year, a proposal to build a Planned Parenthood clinic in Brighton won approval by the city’s Planning Board.

Genesee County Ways and Means Board has approved 55 thousand dollars for the Spectrum Health and Human Services to provide after hours mental health services till the end of the year.  Director of Community Mental Health Services Lynda Battaglia had previously said that the county’s day treatment program was closed, and funding for that will be redirected to the after-hours, on-call mental health needs of the county.  Staff had said that, due to staffing shortages, fully running the mental health services, especially after regular hours, would be impossible.  Spectrum Health is located in Orchard Park and their contract with the county was set to run out June 30th.

According to the World Health Organization, mental health issues such as depression and anxiety spiked up at least 25 percent due to the COVID pandemic and its associated lockdowns and the New York State Attorney General’s office is looking for ways to help.  Attorney General Letitia James hosted a several hour open forum Wednesday.  Most of the participants were mental health professionals.  Their biggest suggestions were more funding and more beds in mental health facilities.  The number of emergency visits related to mental health went up by 31 percent last year, specifically in adolescents.  James said her office would review the suggestions and move forward from there.

Looking for a summer job?  Governor Hochul announced that there are over 15 thousand job opportunities available in New York State covering a variety of industries and in every part of the state.  Interested applicants can find the listed openings on the department of labors seasonal works site or by following the link at wbtai.com.  There is also help with filling out the applications split up by age group.

https://seasonalworks.labor.ny.gov/

https://dol.ny.gov/youth-ages-14-17

https://dol.ny.gov/youth-ages-18-24

New York State is increasing the pay for lifeguards this year as the state has had a shortage for the past several years.  New York Governor Kathy Hochul said this is to combat a staffing shortage at state park beaches and pools as well as campgrounds and day-use area beaches.  Starting pay for lifeguards at upstate facilities will increase 34% from $14.95 per hour to $20 per hour.  The new pay rates will go into effect immediately for lifeguards at swimming facilities operated by the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, and the Department of Environmental conservation.  Lifeguarding can start at 15 years old.

Genesee Orleans Ministry of Concern announced a change in leadership with Robert Harker taking the reins.  Harker was announced as the new executive director on Wednesday and he hopes to promote agency growth, and expand services, allowing it to be of even greater service to people in need in the Genesee / Orleans County areas.  Donations, volunteers, and ideas are always welcome. Bob can be reached at (585) 589-9210.

A heat advisory has been issued for this afternoon in the GLOW region. The advisory is in effect until 6:00pm, according to the National Weather Service in Buffalo. Heat index values in the mid-to-upper 90s are expected. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur. People are advised to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Watch pets, small children and the elderly for signs of heat exhaustion. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances. And if you work or spend time outside, take extra precautions…When possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Call 911 in the event of heat stroke. The advisory also includes Niagara, Monroe, Ontario and Wayne counties.

Jae Lim

A Monroe County grand jury has indicted the owner of a local martial arts studio on sexual abuse and child endangerment charges. According to prosecutors, 50-year-old Jae Lim of Master Lim’s Taekwondo in Brockport allegedly touched a 12-year-old in a sexual manner. Right now, investigators believe that this was an isolated incident. Lim is in the Monroe County Jail without bail and a judge has also issued an order of protection for the victim.

A traffic alert for you…delays will occur during the second phase of paving work on Columbia, Seneca and Miller Avenues. The work is scheduled for this Friday from 7:00am to 3:00pm. Stretches of each avenue will be closed to all through traffic during times of roadwork. Local traffic will be permitted to and from their property but should plan accordingly for delays and there is no parking on the street when work is underway. The project is weather dependent. If work is postponed it shall progress the next workday. Call the Bureau of Maintenance at (585) 345-6400 Option 1 for more information.

According to Triple A this morning, the average national price of regular gas has slipped to under $5.00 per gallon; it’s the first time this closely watched number has decreased in nine weeks. Experts say it’s an indication that prices will be slightly lower before the July 4th holiday. The U.S. Energy Information Administration tells us that pump prices are declining in part because of a reduction in demand for fuel, as more drivers change daily routines and prioritize budgets for recreational travel. In Batavia, the average price per gallon is $4.88; the same as it was yesterday, but down 3 cents from a week ago.

With just days until the June 28th primary, four Republican candidates in the race for New York governor have held their third and final debate. Andrew Giuliani, Long Island Congressman Lee Zeldin, businessman Harry Wilson, and former Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino all gathered on stage in Rochester last night. There were a variety of topics discussed including crime, immigration, abortion and gun control. The candidates also criticized Governor Hochul, who is the frontrunner to be the Democratic Party’s nominee in November.

A new report says a 300-million-dollar Amazon regional distribution center in the Town of Niagara could be just weeks away from receiving its final approvals. According to Buffalo Business First, the planning board has already signed off on the facility, which will be located on Lockport Road near Niagara Falls International Airport. Now, the town board is going to begin an environmental review before the project advances to the zoning board. If the necessary approvals are in place soon, construction could start this fall.

Tonawandas Gateway Harbor stage

A popular concert series that’s been entertaining people across Western New York for years is going to be kicking off tonight. Tonawandas Gateway Harbor Concerts will happen each Wednesday through the end of August at Gateway Harbor Park. Among the musicians who are set to perform in the coming weeks are Chicago Authority, A-List, and the Dave Constantino Band. Each show begins at 6:00pm and more information about each concert can found online.

The Muckdogs are number 1 in the league after their 5 to 0 win over the Niagara Power Monday night. Even with the Power getting 13 hits they could not score a run. The Muckdogs scored once in the second inning, three in the third, and one in the fifth. They are now 9 and 2, a half game ahead of the Utica Blue sox. They are home again tonight at 7 pm to face off against Watertown.

A pilot has been taken to the hospital following a single-engine plane crash in Canandaigua. The Ontario County Sheriff’s Department says the aircraft went down in a field yesterday. The pilot ejected moments before impact and suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Both the FAA and sheriff’s office are looking into what caused the crash.

There is a heat advisory in effect until 6pm for Genesee, Orleans and Livingston counties.  The heat index is predicted to go to the upper 90s to near 100 degrees from the shore of Lake Ontario to Letchworth.  Remember to drink plenty of fluids and stay in the shade or in air conditioning.  Plan not to work outside unless absolutely necessary.  Watch pets and small children for signs of heat exhaustion and check on elderly loved ones.

A hiker found themselves in a sticky situation Monday at Letchworth State Park.  Around 9:45 pm state Police responded to the park to the report of a hiker who had fallen into the gorge.  The High Angle Rescue Team were able to locate, contact and then rappel down to the hiker who was 150-200 feet down the gorge wall.  They were able to extricate the hiker using ropes.  The hiker only had minor injuries and was evaluated at the scene by EMTs.  They were cited by the police.  

Are you thirsty on these hot days?  There is a way to wet your whistle and help babies at UMMC at the same time.  Each year, more than 500 babies are born at United Memorial Medical Center.  Soon after birth, the newborns are swaddled for comfort and safe sleeping.  The American Academy of Pediatrics says when done correctly, swaddling is an effective technique to calm infants and promote sleep.  Thursday at Centennial Park from 5 to 7 pm, UMMC staff and friends are having a lemonade sale with kids setting up lemonade stands to buy swaddles for babies.  Stop by and buy a glass of refreshment to give babies a better beginning.  A maternity nurse, the director of the program and volunteers will be on hand to talk about what they do.

It’s not just the price on gallons of gas that have risen.  The price has affected prices on other goods as well.  The average price of a gallon of milk has risen by 50 cents since the beginning of the year in part because of rising gas prices.  Western NY dairy farmers are saying the price of bringing their milk to market has nearly doubled due to fertilizer prices doubling and gas prices shooting even higher.  The higher prices have also slowed everything down.  Robert Hoover the Second of Hoover Dairy says supplies and equipment that used to take a week to get are now backordered for months and shipping has become more expensive.  Even with the state gas tax suspension and county level caps and the predicted call to suspend the federal gas tax these slow downs and price hikes will be felt for a long time.

Genesee Community College’s TRio Upward Bound program is receiving a 5 year, 1.5 million dollar grant for both Genesee and Wyoming county to help low income students who would be the first in their families to earn college degrees.  Upward Bound is an intensive intervention program that prepares students for higher education through various enrichment courses. At least two-thirds of the students in each local Upward Bound program are from low-income economic backgrounds and families in which neither parent has a bachelor’s degree. GCC’s Upward Bound program services seven schools in Genesee and Wyoming Counties.  As of 2021, over 3,000 TRiO projects serve approximately 855,000 participants. TRiO projects are in every state and territory in the nation.

The Muckdogs are number 1 in the league after their 5 to 0 win over the Niagara Power Monday night.  Even with the Power getting 13 hits they couldn’t get a single run.  The Muckdogs scored once in the second inning, three in the third, and one in the fifth.  They are now 9 and 2, a half game ahead of the Utica Blue sox.  They are home again tonight at 7 pm to face off against Watertown.  

Erica Raphael

A Batavia woman with a long criminal history and who has repeatedly failed to appear in court when scheduled to, is now in jail following a shoplifting complaint. 37-year-old Erica Raphael, a convicted felon, along with 31-year-old Justin Baehr, both from Batavia, have been charged following a shoplifting complaint at the Wal-Mart in Warsaw, with both occasions occurring early last month. It is alleged Raphael and Baehr filled up a cart with items, attempted to leave the store through the lawn and garden doors, which turned out to be locked. They abandoned the cart and left through the front doors, where they stole a bicycle from an outside display. It turned out that Raphael had been banned from entering that particular store due to previous shoplifting. Raphael is being held in Wyoming County Jail; Baehr was released on his own recognizance; both are scheduled to return to the Town of Warsaw Court on July 11. Raphael has a long history of petit larceny and arrests that date back to at least 2009.

State records show that health insurance providers are seeking an average rate increase of 18.7% next year for individuals and 16.5% for small group plans. The proposed insurance premium rate hikes exceeded recent years. Insurers cited, in part, the ongoing health-related costs of COVID-19 and inflation as reasons for seeking the rate increases. The changes will impact millions of state residents who are enrolled in individual and small group plans directly through private insurers or through New York State of Health. Now, the state Department of Financial Services, which regulates insurers, will review the rate proposals and consider adjustments before finalizing the 2023 rates in August. Historically, the state agency has significantly reduced the rates from those sought by insurers.

Four ounces of marijuana

Marijuana use is now legal in the State of New York, which means at festivals, fairs or anywhere that smoking is allowed, marijuana is also allowed. Possession is limited to 3 ounces or less. Users must be 21 and up and driving under the influence is illegal. So far police departments across the region have not reported any problems.

36-year-old Mary Dorman of Batavia is charged with DWI, failure to keep right, and moving unsafely between lanes. Dorman was involved in a head-on collision earlier this month (June 4) on Bank Street with a Batavia Police Department patrol vehicle. Her vehicle also struck a parked car. Dorman was arraigned in City Court and released on her own recognizance.

Governor Hochul has officially signed off on a piece of legislation aimed at bolstering the Empire State’s election laws. Under the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Act Of New York, the state will provide language assistance to voters who are not proficient in English and punish those who try to deceive voters or unlawfully block them from voting. The act also reinstates a pre-clearance provision requiring certain jurisdictions to prove new election laws don’t discriminate against voters of color. The governor says at a time when the very foundation of democracy is being threatened, New York is leading the nation with laws protecting the right to vote.

Four Republicans who are running for New York governor have taken part in their second debate. Last night, Long Island Congressman Lee Zeldin, businessman Harry Wilson, ex-Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino and Andrew Giuliani discussed issues such as COVID-19 related mandates and bail reform. The candidates also took the opportunity to attack each other during the debate. The GOP primary is coming up next Tuesday and the winner will take on either Governor Hochul, Long Island Congressman Tom Suozzi or New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams in November.

Delaware North is a food, beverage and retail partner with the Buffalo Bills is holding the first of two job fairs today. The company wants to fill positions at Highmark Stadium. The hiring event goes from 5:30pm until 7:30pm at the ADPRO Sports Training Center located on Abbott Road in Orchard Park. The second job fair will be July 16th from 11:00am until 1:00pm at the same location. Among the positions that are available include cashiers, servers, vendors and line cooks. More information can be found online at careers.delawarenorth.com.

A food drive to help people affected by a mass shooting in Buffalo last month will continue to be up and running through this Saturday. Uniting and Healing through Hope says donations can be dropped off at any one of more than 20 locations across Monroe County such as police stations, churches and libraries. In addition to food, items that are still needed include toothpaste, shampoo, diapers and detergent. More information can be found online at unitingthroughhope.com.

45-year-old Thomas Michael Busch of Willow Street, Lockport, has been charged with possession of a sexual performance, by a child. Busch was arrested in Darien following an investigation into digital images on an electronic device in his possession He was released on an appearance ticket.

The search for a jet skier who was reported missing over the weekend is going to resume today. Monroe County deputies say Onofhil Nieves was last seen Saturday in the area of Durand Eastman Beach. Crews have been searching both the water and land near the beach for days but so far there have been no signs of Nieves’ whereabouts. Anyone with information is asked to contact the sheriff’s department at 585-753-4178.

Governor Hochul signed the John Lewis Voting Rights Act of New York into law Monday on the day Juneteenth was celebrated.  The act recognizes that New York’s voter laws are already superior at protecting voting rights when compared to federal voting laws but also are written to assert that New York has discrimination built into its laws which has lead to a disparity in voter turnout and representation.  This act is supposed to stop Voter Dilution, Suppression, Intimidation, Deception, and Obstruction and expand language assistance to minorities who don’t speak English.  The Republican and conservative parties opposed the act, saying it attempts to solve a problem that doesn’t exist, is far too broad, vague and expensive and doesn’t spell out how it would accomplish what it sets out to do.  They are also concerned that it imposes civil penalties on perceived violations that are hard to prove and are based on a shifting idea of a “protected class” that is entirely subjective.

With Marijuana use being legal in the State of New York, festivals and fairs where smoking is allowed may have a different odor to them.  Anywhere where smoking is allowed, marijuana is also allowed.  Possession is limited to 3 ounces or less.  Users must be 21 and up and driving under the influence is illegal.  So far police departments have not reported running into any problems at festivals.  

New York’s new law banning body armor is getting criticism by gun rights advocates and republican lawmakers.  Not because of what it bans, but what it doesn’t ban.  The law which bars sales of bullet-resistant vests to most civilians doesn’t cover the type of armor worn by the man accused of killing 10 people at a Buffalo supermarket.  The accused gunman wore a steel-plated vest, an armor strong enough to stop a handgun round fired by a store security guard who tried to halt the rampage.  A law hastily enacted by state lawmakers after the attack restricts sales of vests defined as “bullet-resistant soft body armor.”  Brad Pedell, who runs 221B Tactical in New York City complains the law is too vague.  Assemblymember Jonathon Jacobson, a lead sponsor of the legislation, told The Associated Press he would “be glad to amend the law to make it even stronger.”

36 Year old Mary Dorman of Batavia is charged with DWI, failure to keep right, and moving from a lane unsafely on June 4th.  How did the police catch her?  She ran head on into a Batavia Police patrol vehicle at around 10:45 that evening.  She also hit a parked car.  

Delaware North, the food, beverage and retail partner for the Buffalo Bills is holding jobs fairs for Highmark Stadium for the 2022 season.  The first fair is today from 5:30 to 7:30 and the second is on July 16th.  Both are held at ADPRO Sports Training Center on Abbot Rd in Buffalo.  Positions needing to be filled are: Cashiers, Suite Runners, Servers, Line Cooks, Prep Cooks, Supervisors, Dishwashers, Vendors and Warehouse Operators. 

Genesee County Sheriffs tell us that earlier this month, they responded to the parking lot of Dick’s Sporting Goods, following a complaint that a man was trying to sell a gold ring for cash. Following the investigation, it became evident that the man and a female passenger in his car were perpetrating a scam that has previously been identified by law enforcement. Genesee County Sheriff’s are asking any citizens who purchased jewelry from an individual in this area, including the Walmart and Batavia Downs parking lots, to contact them directly at 585-345-3000 (Investigator Ryan DuLong, ext. 3572; or Investigator Erik Andre, ext. 3574).

The Genesee County Board of Elections is seeking to hire poll workers for election days and early voting days. Individuals are required to attend a two-and-half-hour paid training session and are paid a competitive daily rate. Anyone interested in being a poll worker should call Genesee County Board of Elections at 585-815-7804.

Governor Hochul

Governor Hochul has announced New York State is making a $50,000,000 investment to help improve the lives of people who live in Buffalo’s East Side neighborhood. Over the weekend, the governor said money would go towards things like job training, housing initiatives and supporting small businesses. The area was devastated May 14th when a gunman opened fire at the Tops supermarket on Jefferson Avenue, killing 10 people and injuring three more in what’s been called a racially motivated attack. The store is expected to reopen sometime next month.

Old electronic devices

Assemblyman Steve Hawley is sponsoring an electronic waste-recycling event with Sunnking from 8:30am until noon this Saturday, June 25, at the parking lot of 5130 E. Main Street. That’s next to National Grid, in the town of Batavia. Most e-waste will be accepted, including cell phones, computers, printers and by the way, please no more than 4 televisions or monitors per carload. Anyone interested in attending this event must pre-register:  https://form.jotform.com/Sunnking/clone-of-batavia-2022

28-year-old Megan Gregg of Batavia has been arrested on charges of endangering the welfare of a child. It’s alleged that she left controlled prescription pills and drug paraphernalia in an area that was accessible to a child that lives in the residence. Gregg was issued an appearance ticket for a future court date.  Also, 19-year-old McKenzie O’Connell of Batavia has been arrested on two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. O’Connell allegedly provided marijuana to two juveniles and permitted them to smoke it in her residence. She was issued an appearance ticket returnable to Batavia City Court next week and released. And 40-year-old Erik Motquin of Batavia has been arrested and charged with disorderly conduct following a fight in a public building on East Main Street. He was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court tomorrow for arraignment.

53-year-old Paula Kingdollar of Covington was arrested for petit larceny. Troopers investigating the complaint from the owner of a produce stand on Bank Street Road in the Town of Batavia, determined Kingdollar had allegedly taken produce valued at $33.00 without paying for it. Kingdollar was arrested and released with an appearance ticket for Batavia Town Court and is due back in court next month.

Western New York drivers are seeing consistent prices at the gas pumps these days. According to Triple A this morning, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $4.98 in our region. That’s the same as it was last week but 14 cents more than this time one month ago is and $1.89 higher than a year ago. The state average is now sitting at $5.01 a gallon and the national average is $4.98. In Batavia, the average price per gallon is $4.89; same as it was yesterday and down 3 cents from a week ago. By the way, average price for diesel here is $6.26 per gallon.

A traffic alert to stay mindful of over the next few days:  Columbia Avenue, Seneca Avenue, and Miller Avenue will experience traffic delays starting tomorrow, June 21st through Friday, June 24th from 7:00am to 3:00pm. The roads will be closed to all through traffic for paving. While local traffic will be permitted to and from their property, everyone should plan accordingly for delays. All residents/businesses within the work area are asked not to park on the roadway during the operation. This is weather dependent work; if work is postponed it shall progress the next workday. Please contact the Bureau of Maintenance at 585-345-6400 Option 1 if there are any questions.

The early voting period continues ahead of the upcoming June 28th primary and the state Attorney General’s Office says its Election Protection Hotline is up and running. The hotline can be reached by calling 866-390-2992 and will be available from 9:00am until 5:00pm through June 26th and from 6:00am until 9:00pm on primary day, the 28th. Written requests for election-related help can also be submitted using a form posted online. The AG’s office is reminding New Yorkers they have to right to vote free of intimidation in coercion.

Okay fine, I’ll share

No one picked all the winning numbers in this weekend’s Powerball drawing and that means even more money is up for grabs tonight. The top prize for this evening is now at least $296,000,000. A ticket to play the game is $2.00. Tonight’s drawing will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

The Buffalo Police Department is expected to release body camera footage of an officer-involved shooting in the coming days. According to investigators, 27-year-old Nakeem Haynes shot and killed 63-year-old Atlas Johnson near Broadway and Sears Street Friday night. At one point, Haynes was on the hood of a police vehicle and opened fire but no one was hit. The officers later ran after Haynes who ended up being shot several times. He was taken to Erie County Medical Center and is charged with attempted murder.

Kodie Skeels

State Police in Warsaw arrested 24-year-old Kodie Skeels, of Varysburg for strangulation, obstruction of breathing, and assault. Acting on an arrest warrant, Troopers went to Skeels’ residence and he was taken into custody. Skeels had allegedly been involved in domestic incidents on two different dates. He was remanded to the Wyoming County jail and is scheduled to appear in the Town of Sheldon Court next week.

NY Congressman Joe Morelle is calling on the federal government to cleanup the mess in Rochester.  He said that the US Justice Department needs to address the gun violence in the Flour City.  A recent study from RIT’s Center for Public Safety Initiatives found that no other city’s per-capita homicide rate has increased at a faster rate than Rochester over the past two years.  So far the city has had 31 homicides in the first half of the year.  Last year there were 81 by the end of the year with the summer months being the deadliest. 

Batavia City Schools is making the move to hire a second School Resource Officer.  Superintendent Jason Smith believes that, given “recent tragic events over the past month” in Buffalo and Texas, that school safety concerns have once again been heightened.  These officers are not direct employees of the district, as they are subcontracted from the City Police Department. Smith has been talking to City Council, the city manager, and the police department about a possible arrangement. One officer would cover the high and middle schools while a second officer would cover Jackson Primary, John Kennedy Intermediate, and Robert Morris.  Smith said that funding is anticipated to come through the remote learning money from COVID relief.

Catholic Charities in Genesee and Orleans Counties is looking for people to do calling and visitation for the community’s elderly.   The Friendly Phones and Home Visitation programs depend on dedicated volunteers to provide weekly visits or phone calls to isolated seniors 60+ who live independently, or with family.  Program manager Linda Chadderdon said that “Not only do these interactions brighten our seniors’ days, but our volunteers also enjoy the time spent together.”  are you interested in brightening someone’s day?   Please call Catholic Charities at 585-343-0614, ext. 3804.

Coming to Buffalo’s Shea’s Theater are some big names in comedy.  Earthquake, Cedric the Entertainer, DL Hughley, Don DC Curry and Aida Rodriguez are putting on the Jokes for Our Folks show on Tuesday June 28th.  All proceeds will be donated to Feed Buffalo.  Tickets can be bought at Ticketmaster.

Mercy Flight is hosting its biggest annual fundraiser at the Buffalo Riverworks this year.  The BASH for Mercy Flight will be held on September 24th.  The fundraiser will feature Nerds Gone Wild and DJ Milk, a fireworks show by Skylighters, a silent auction, food and drinks and more.  Tickets for the event are 75 dollars a person, 50 for a pack of 4.

The Quicklees on the corner of Oak St and Noonan is now partially open for business.  The gas station which sits in the place of the former Bob Evans restaurant gasoline pumps are working and the mini mart inside is open.  The Tim Hortons and drive through will not be open for another month and a half.

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that a total of $567 million is available to help low-income electric and gas utility customers pay off past-due utility bills. Under the bill credit program, all State help available for utility bill assistance will be coordinated to ensure maximum benefits to ratepayers and to avoid duplication of efforts. This includes relief available to low-income customers for rental assistance, directed to utilities to eliminate pandemic-related unpaid utility bills for low-income households. This one-time bill credit, which will be applied to affected customers’ bills by the utilities, requires no action by existing low-income customers enrolled in the EAP to receive the benefit. It is anticipated the bill credit will be applied to customers’ accounts by August 1, 2022.

Early voting begins Saturday across the GLOW region for voters registered in the Democratic or Republican primaries. Democrats will vote on a candidate for governor and lieutenant governor. Republican voters will choose a candidate for governor, but not lieutenant governor. Only Republicans and Democrats are eligible to participate in their respective primaries, since New York is a closed primary state. The primary is June 28. A second primary is scheduled for Aug. 23 and feature congressional and Senate candidates. On June 28, polling sites around Genesee County will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Check your poll site at https://voterlookup.elections.ny.gov/ or call Genesee County Board of Elections at (585) 815-7804. Early voting will begin tomorrow and continue through June 26 at the Arc Community Center, 38 Woodrow Rd., Batavia. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday through Monday; noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 23 to 26.

BB gun

A teenager is continuing to recover after being accidentally shot with a BB gun in Rochester. Police say two children were playing with the weapon yesterday when it went off, hitting the 13-year-old victim in the upper body. The teen was taken to Strong Memorial Hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries but is currently in stable condition. The incident is still under investigation.

Peyton Gendron

The man accused of carrying out the mass shooting at Tops in Buffalo that left 10 people dead has made another appearance in court. Yesterday, 18-year-old Peyton Gendron was in front of a judge, just one day after federal charges were announced against him that could result in the death penalty. Prosecutors say Gendron opened fire at the Jefferson Avenue supermarket in what they’re calling a racially motivated attack. He remains held behind bars without bail.

With the number of New Yorkers testing positive for the coronavirus on the decline, the state Department of Health is closing down all of its mass COVID-19 vaccination sites. Last year, the vaccination sites were set up to distribute COVID-19 vaccine to the public quickly and efficiently. So far, over 90-percent of New Yorkers 18 and older have received at least one vaccine dose.

The Food and Drug Administration today has authorized the first COVID-19 shots for infants at least 6 months of age and preschoolers; vaccinations could begin as early as next week. That means kids under 5 — roughly 18 million youngsters — are eligible for the shots, about 1-1/2 years after the vaccines first became available in the United States for use with the most vulnerable adults, who had been hit the hardest during the pandemic. There’s one step left: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends how to use the vaccines and its vaccine advisers are set to discuss the shots for the youngest kids today and vote on in tomorrow.

People across Western New York will be gathering this weekend to celebrate Juneteenth. In Buffalo, an event is taking place both Saturday and Sunday at Martin Luther King Junior Park. The 47th annual gathering is going to feature historical tours and education programs, arts and cultural displays, food, and a health and wellness pavilion. Juneteenth, short for June Nineteenth, is a day, which commemorates the end of legalized slavery in the United States.

Governor Hochul during debate

Governor Hochul and the two candidates who are looking to defeat her in the Democratic primary later this month have squared off in their final debate. Last night, the governor as well as Long Island Congressman Tom Suozzi and New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams discussed a variety of topics such as gun violence and whether they’d be willing to accept an endorsement from former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Only Suozzi said he’d welcome the support of Cuomo who he noted is still very popular in New York. Primary day is Tuesday, June 28th.

The Buffalo Bills have announced when they’ll be kicking off training camp to begin their preparations for the upcoming season. The Bills will be taking the field at Saint John Fisher College in Rochester on July 24th. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the Bills held their last two training camps at Highmark Stadium. Fans are going to be able to attend at no cost and mobile tickets will be available to the entire general public July 14th. For more information, click on this link:  buffalobills.com/trainingcamp The Bills start their regular season September 8th against the Super Bowl champion Los Angeles Rams.

Garth Brooks

Fans of country music superstar Garth Brooks will finally get the chance to purchase tickets to his upcoming show at Highmark Stadium. Brooks is set to take the stage in Orchard Park on Saturday, July 23rd. Tickets were supposed to be available last month, but Brooks postponed the sale in the aftermath of the Tops supermarket shooting. The seats are now available through Ticketmaster. There will be an 8-ticket limit on purchases.

Ok fine, I’ll share

Lottery players are lining up to buy their tickets over the next couple of days as they take their shot at winning two big jackpots. The prize up for grabs during tonight’s Mega Millions drawing is $273,000,000 and whoever picks the correct Powerball numbers tomorrow will receive at least $279,000,000. The price of a ticket for each game is $2.00 and the Mega Millions and Powerball drawings will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly

Representatives Chris Jacobs, Brian Higgins and Grace Meng introduced legislation in the US House of Representatives to restrict what they call enhanced body armor to law enforcement, active duty military and other public servants and make it illegal for private citizens to purchase, sell, trade or own.  The legislation is named after Aaron Salter Jr. the TOPs security guard and retired police officer who shot the shooter as he entered the Jefferson road TOPs.  The shooter was wearing body armor which stopped the bullet and allowed him to kill Salter and continue on his spree.  Representative Jacobs said, “There is simply no reason for enhanced body armor to be used without restriction on our streets. It puts others in extraordinary danger and prevents the swift termination of a dangerous threat.”

After 2 years of cool cats and groovy dudes not being able to come together for the Rochester International Jazz Festival it is finally back.  From today till the 25th the Jazz Festival will take over more than 20 venues and host hundreds of performances.  This is the 19th International Jazz Festival with free and paid shows.  The headliners are Chris Botti, Devon Allman Project and many more and all the headliners shows are free.  For details go to Rocehsterjazz.com.

Do you have past due gas or electric utility bills?  Governor Hochul announced on Thursday that there is 557 million dollars available for low income households to pay off their bills.  All you have to do to get access to this money is be enrolled in the Energy Affordability Program by December 31st.  The program will send a one time credit to the utility company to pay off past due balances.  The credit will start going out August 1st.

Finger 11 will no longer be coming to Batavia Downs on June 24th during the Rockin’ the Downs concert series.  Instead, The Sweet, the legendary band that shot to the top of the charts in the 70s with songs such as Ballroom Blitz and Little Willy, will be playing that evening.  The Downs wants everyone to please note that tickets purchased for the Finger 11 concert will still be honored on that date.  Those wishing for a refund may do so through their point of purchase.  Info can be found inside of your ticket confirmation email.  Tickets purchased at the Lucky Treasures gift shop may be refunded during normal gift shop hours.

The Buffalo Bills have announced the 2022 training camp schedule as the team is set to return to St. John Fisher College after two years away due to COVID-19.  All fans attending will be required to obtain a mobile ticket, which will be available online here.  Season ticket members can claim tickets starting at 10 a.m. on July 13. Registered Bills Mobile App users can secure their tickets from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 14.  The tickets will be open to the general public after 1 p.m. on July 14. There is a limit of four tickets per account.  For the complete schedule go to wbtai.com.

You can find the schedule below:

Sunday, July 24 (9:45 am)

Monday, July 25 (9:45 am)

Wednesday, July 27 (9:45 am)

Friday, July 29 (9:45 am)

Saturday, July 30 (9:45 am)

Monday, August 1 (9:45 am)

Tuesday, August 2 (9:45 am)

Thursday, August 4 (9:45 am)

Friday, August 5 (5:30 pm) at Highmark Stadium – Return of the Blue and Red

Sunday, August 7 (11:45 am)

Wednesday, August 10 (9:45 am)

Thursday, August 11 (9:45 am)

The team said ticket details for the ‘Return of the Blue and Red’ practice at Highmark Stadium will be announced at a later date.

Jennifer Moton

37-year-old Jennifer Moton of Rochester, has been charged with two counts of criminal sale and possession of a controlled substance and promoting prison contraband. Moton was arrested following a traffic stop on a warrant based on a sealed Grand Jury indictment in Genesee County for allegedly selling crack cocaine to an agent of the Local Drug Task Force in the City of Batavia. While Morton was being processed at the jail, information was developed that resulted in a search warrant. Moton was allegedly found in possession of 41 pre-packaged bags of crack cocaine along with a bulk quantity of crack cocaine. She was arraigned in Genesee County Court and released on her own recognizance and also arraigned in Town of Stafford court and similarly released on her own recognizance.

Anyone who has been outside today is already well aware of the high temperature and humidity. This has resulted is a heat advisory for Western NY, in effect until 6:00pm this evening. The National Weather Service warns us that the heat index will be in the upper 90s throughout the afternoon. High humidity and heat may cause heat illnesses to occur. Remember to drink plenty of water and get in the shade or air conditioning if you start feeling hot or light headed. Young children, the elderly, and pets are especially vulnerable as they may not know their limits or perceive the problem until it has advanced.

Brandon Pfeifer

Mercy Flight flew a man to Strong Memorial Hospital. This, after his motorcycle was struck by a car pulling out on to Clinton Street from Terry Hills Golf Course yesterday afternoon. 46-year-old Brandon Pfeifer of Chili was thrown about 4 feet and suffered lower leg injuries and an injury to his left arm, when he was t-boned by a Chevrolet Equinox driven by 70-year-old Dale Gillmer of Amherst. Gillmer was cited for failure to yield the right of way; he claimed he could not see the motorcycle. Another person was charged with failure to obey a designated flag person after ignoring and driving around an accident barricade. When police caught up with that individual on the green at Terry Hills the individual was ticketed after he reportedly claimed that his tee-time was more important than someone fighting for their life in the middle of the road. Alcohol was not believed to be a factor in either incident. Photo: LinkedIn

63-year-old Arthur Golden of Batavia is charged with criminal contempt and burglary. He is accused of contacting a person he was ordered not to contact and has been ordered held without bail.

Payton Gendron

The suspect in that mass shooting at Tops in Buffalo last month is now facing 26 federal charges. Yesterday, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland visited Buffalo and talked with family members of the victims who were killed at the Jefferson Avenue store back on May 14th. Garland then revealed the additional charges that have been filed against Payton Gendron that could make him eligible to receive the death penalty. Gendron has already pleaded not guilty to dozens of state charges and is in jail without bail.

Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch

The Batavia Police Department is conducting a Civilian Response to Active Shooter/Threat Events Class next week. There are two options to choose from — 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 22 or 6 to 9 p.m., Thursday, June 23 at City Hall, 1 Batavia City Centre. This course is open to the public and is free of charge; Batavia residents will be given first preference. The class will provide strategies, guidance, and a plan for surviving shooter and threat events. Although there will be signs advising attendees about the sensitive nature of the course, people may want to consider whether they want to remain for the entire portion of the presentation due to the nature of the subject matter. Seating is limited and registration is required. To sign up or for more information, contact aperkins@batavianewyork.com with your name, address, and phone number.

Some new data shows the spread of the coronavirus is continuing to slow down in our region. Right now, the 7 day average infection rate is sitting at just over 5%. At this time one week ago, the infection rate was 5.9%. While the number of new COVID-19 cases is dropping, people are still being urged to protect themselves and others from the illness by being vaccinated, getting their booster shots, and wearing a mask indoors. In a related story, Governor Hochul has renewed the state of emergency for the State of New York citing the COVID pandemic. In an executive order signed earlier this week, she cited that hospital admissions remain at over 100 per day; this was the primary reason she extended the order. On Tuesday, statewide hospitalizations were at 1,938, with 38 deaths. The Capital Region had a 7-day infection rate of 17.37 out of 100,000 New Yorkers with a percentage positivity of 7.09%. Central, NY was at 10.89 and Western NY, 11.85.

Governor Hochul

With just under two weeks until the primary, the three Democrats involved in the race for New York governor are taking part in another debate tonight. Governor Hochul, Long Island Congressman Tom Suozzi and New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams will be hoping to show voters why they’re the best choice to lead the state into the future. When the candidates met last week for a debate, they discussed several key issues including gun violence and the economy. Primary day is set for Tuesday, June 28th.

Governor Hochul has announced over 46-million-dollars in funding will be available for a summer jobs program to help disadvantaged youth. The program introduces young New Yorkers from low-income families into the labor market so they can develop useful skills by working at places like parks, summer camps and nursing homes. In order to be eligible, young people must be between the ages of 14 and 20 years old and have a household income below 200 percent of the federal poverty level. Anyone who is interested in taking part in the program can sign up at their local department of social services.

Norzel Aldridge

A Buffalo man who shot and killed a youth football coach nearly three years ago is going to be spending a lot of time behind bars. Yesterday, a judge sentenced 20-year-old Jason Washington to 25 years in prison. Back in August 2019, Washington shot Norzel Aldridge behind the Harvey Austin School on Sycamore Street. Earlier this year, a jury found Washington not guilty of murder and attempted murder but did convict him on manslaughter and other charges.

Rochester police are still looking into a shooting that sent a 33-year-old man to the hospital. The man told investigators that he was hit by gunfire on Epworth Street last night. The victim, whose name hasn’t been released, suffered a lower-body injury and is expected to be OK. Anyone with information on the case is asked to dial 911.

Lacritia Verstraete

Kiara Scott

A second arrest has been made in connection with the discovery of a man’s body in a parking lot behind Geneva Hospital. Police have charged 24-year-old Lacritia Verstraete with manslaughter and concealment of a human corpse, the same crimes 21-year-old Kiara Scott is accused of committing. Officials say 44-year-old Keith Morlang suffered a medical emergency earlier this month and instead of getting him treatment, Scott and Verstraete left him in the parking lot. Police haven’t revealed Morlang’s exact cause of death yet.

A man was flown by Mercy Flight to Strong Memorial Hospital after his motorcycle was struck by a car pulling out from Clinton St near Terry Hills Golf Club Wednesday afternoon.  46 Year old Brandon Pfeifer of Rochester was thrown about 4 feet and suffered lower leg injuries and an arm injury when he was t-boned by a Chevy Equinox driven by 70 year old Dale Gillmer of Buffalo.  Gillmer was cited for failure to yield the right of way and claimed he couldn’t see the motorcycle.  Another person was charged with failure to obey a designated flag person when they went around the officer trying to get them to stop.  A deputy caught up with them on the green at Terry Hills they reportedly said “their tee-time was more important than someone fighting for their life in the middle of the road.”

There is a heat advisory for Western NY in effect.  From 10 this morning to 6 tonight the National Weather Service warns that the heat index will be in the upper 90s.  High humidity and heat may cause heat illnesses to occur.  Remember to drink plenty of water and get in the shade or air conditioning if you start feeling hot or light headed.  Young children and pets are most susceptible for heat exhaustion as they may not know their limits or to protect themselves.  

Governor Hochul has renewed the state of emergency for the State of New York citing the COVID pandemic.  In an executive order signed on Tuesday, she cites that hospital admissions remaining at over 100 per day were the reason to extend the order.  On Tuesday, statewide hospitalizations were at 1938, with 38 deaths.  The Capital Region had a 7 day infection rate of 17.37 out of 100,000 New Yorkers with a percentage positivity of 7.09%.  Central, NY at 10.89 and Western NY at 11.85.  

Continued violence in Rochester has caused some organizations to halt services out of fear for their safety.  Love, Rob and Amber, a pet food and supply delivery organization run by Suzanne Nugent, says they can no longer deliver in the city of Rochester because it isn’t safe anymore.  Nugent’s business has about 50 households that regularly order in the city.  She says that one of her delivery drivers, her sister Patty, narrowly avoided being shot once.  The business is working on setting up a pickup location in a safe place.

Seneca Park Zoo has some new fuzzy babies born earlier this month.  The Seneca Park Zoo’s two Canada lynx are the new parents to a litter of kittens.  Bianca gave birth to the kittens June 2, marking the first successful Canada lynx litter born at the zoo.  The kittens’ father is Gretzky, born in 2012. Bianca was born in 2013.  The zoo is in the midst of a baby boom. Olmsted the giraffe was born at the end of April.

The Department of Homeland Security is expressing concern that the recent mass shooting at a Tops store in Buffalo could inspire other attacks. A confidential document obtained by WKBW-TV says calls for copycat attacks are already circulating online and that minorities could be targeted by violence.
Officials say that the May 14th shooting at the Tops on Buffalo’s east side was racially-motivated.

Republican State Assemblyman Steve Hawley of Batavia says the just completed legislative session in Albany just didn’t do enough.
Hawley says the state budget is more bloated than ever before but does less for the average working family.
He said he was disappointed that the GOP plan to remove state sales taxes for two years on certain necessities were not every considered by the Democrat majority.

The co-owner of the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres is currently undergoing treatment for what are being called unexpected health issues. In a statement, the family of Kim Pegula said yesterday she has been making progress over the last few days but didn’t reveal what her ailment is.

The Batavia Police Department will once again host the Community Night out.
It will be held on August 9th at St. Anthony’s.
The event was very successful last year brining elements of law enforcement together with the community.
There are sponsorships opportunities available. If you want to learn more contact Detective Matt Wojtasczck at BPD.

The 96th season of concerts in the park begins next Wednesday.
The Batavia Concert Band performs in Centennial Park at 7pm every Wednesday night starting on June 21 and continuing until August 3rd.
Bring your lawn chairs.

Rachel Tabelski

At least one city official is proposing a local law restricting the animals and fowl that residents can have within city limits. City Manager Rachael Tabelski Monday night talked about the proposal she came up with, using input from the city attorney’s office, for a local law restricting residents from bringing into the city or keeping a number of wild animals or farm animals. (including cattle, horses, sheep, goats, pigs, swine, llamas, alpacas, ducks, turkeys, geese, feral cats, ponies, donkeys and mules) There could be some exceptions, such as allowing residents to keep chickens as long as they are appropriately kept in a pen and do not create safety or health concerns; as well as providing shelter while transporting animals to special events or veterinary hospitals and clinics, including short-term boarding for medical procedures/conditions. City lawmakers are asking the Planning and Economic Development Committee to review the proposed restrictions.

Batavia Concert Band, 2021

The Batavia Concert Band announced their return for the 96th season of public concerts in Centennial Park this summer. Concerts will be held every Wednesday evening starting at 7:00pm from June 22nd through August 6th. The Band consists of 45-55 brass, woodwind and percussion players ranging from high school students to 60-year veterans. Many have professional experience, others are advanced amateur musicians. The Batavia Concert Band also announced the return of WBTA as the Official Media Sponsor for the 2022 summer concert series. Band members will be appearing on the “Main & Center” program, where they will go into some depth about the band’s makeup and its history. Also, be listening for weekly radio ads promoting the musical selections for the upcoming concerts, and announcing weekly sponsors. Photo courtesy of our news partner, The Batavian. Here is a link to the full story: https://www.thebatavian.com/press-release/batavia-concert-band-returns-june-22-for-96th-season/608360

Todd Baxter

Monroe County Sheriff Todd Baxter will be spending time in the nation’s capital today as he testifies in front of a Congressional subcommittee. Baxter is going to speak with the House Rules Committee’s Subcommittee on Legislative and Budget Process. The chairperson of the committee is 25th District Congressman Joseph Morelle. According to 13 WHAM, Baxter’s testimony is going to focus on several things including gun ownership.

Jefferson Avenue Tops

The Department of Homeland Security is expressing concern that the recent mass shooting at Tops store in Buffalo could inspire other attacks. A confidential document obtained by a Buffalo television station says calls for copycat attacks are already circulating online and that minorities could be targeted by violence. Officials say that the May 14th shooting at the Tops on Jefferson Avenue was racially-motivated. The man who allegedly carried it out, Payton Gendron, could spend the rest of his life in prison if convicted.

The USS The Sullivans

Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes says an additional $500,000 has been allocated to help cover the cost of repairs to the USS The Sullivans. While making the announcement yesterday, Peoples-Stokes revealed that the money is coming from state discretionary capital funds. The vessel suffered a massive hull breach back in April, which caused the boat to fill up with thousands of gallons of water. The historic World War 2 ship is still closed off to visitors.

Kim Pegula

The co-owner of the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres is currently undergoing treatment for what are being called unexpected health issues. In a statement, the family of Kim Pegula said yesterday she has been making progress over the last few days but didn’t reveal what her ailment is. They also asked people to keep her in their prayers and to respect the family’s privacy. Buffalo Bills coach Sean McDermott said during his press conference yesterday that Kim and Terry Pegula are the best owners in the NFL.

Zachary McCaa

A Livingston County man has been arrested in connection with the brutal assault of an infant. According to officials, 26-year-old Zachary McCaa threw and shook the two-month old child at a residence in Caledonia last week. The young victim suffered a head injury and is currently in guarded condition at a hospital in Rochester. McCaa is charged with reckless assault and is being held behind bars on $25,000 bail.

The City of Rochester is in legal trouble for misleading investors according to the Securities and Exchange Commission.  The city, former finance director Rosiland Brooks-Harris, and former RCSD CFO Everton Sewell are accused of allegedly misleading investors in a $119 million bond in 2019 that included using documents with outdated financial information.  The documents allegedly did not indicate that the school district was experiencing financial issues due to overspending on teacher salaries.  Other charges were included against Rochester’s municipal advisor Capital Markets Advisor, and its principal, Richard Ganci, and its co-principal, Richard Tortora, with misleading clients and failing to inform them of conflicts in the budget.  The city released a statement saying it disagrees with the filing and is taking legal steps to defend itself and former financial director.  

A private college in East Rochester is no longer going to be a college.  Saint John Fisher College, Alma Mater of the Wegman family and home to Wegmans schools of nursing and pharmacy is changing from a college to a University.  The State Board of Regents approved the change to take place on July 1st.  Roberts Wesleyan and Nazareth College are also being considered for University status. 

The Batavia Concert Band announced their return for the 96th season of public concerts in Centennial Park this summer.  Concerts will be held on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. on June 22 and 29, July 6, July 13, July 20, July 27 and Aug. 6.  The Band consists of 45-55 brass, woodwind and percussion players ranging from talented high school students to 60-year veterans. Many have professional experience, others are advanced amateur musicians.  The Batavia Concert Band also announces the return of WBTA as the Official Media Sponsor for the 2022 summer concert series.  Be on the lookout for appearances by band members on the “Main & Center” program, where they will go into some depth about the band’s makeup and its history.  Also, be listening for weekly radio ads promoting the musical selections for the upcoming concerts, and announcing weekly sponsors.

Students at Jackson Primary School learned how to respect the American Flag during flag day ceremonies on Tuesday.  The Genesee County Joint Veterans Honor Guard and Western NY National Cemetery Honor Guard came to the elementary school to share lessons about the flag, show how to fold it properly, and demonstrate proper flag hoisting.  Members of the Muckdogs were also on hand.  The students sang God Bless America and This Land Is Your Land.  Star Spangled pictures are available on The Batavian.

The president and CEO of Pegula Sports and Entertainment, Kim Pegula, is receiving medical care as a result of “some unexpected health issues,” according to a spokesperson for the Buffalo Bills.  The Bills, Sabres and Bandits all put out statements expressing their love for and prayers for Kim as she receives care.

Six Flags Darien Lake announced the grand opening of the Wahoo Wave at the Hurricane Harbor Waterpark and their new schedule of weekends till June 24th and weekdays with the exception of Tuesdays till Labor day.  No schedule for Fright Fest has been announced this year.  They also announced the new annual pass which is good for 12 months instead of simply being a season pass.  There are 3 options, each option has access to several Six Flags Parks and free parking. 

James Bumbarger

Perry Police tell us that James Bumbarger, a 41-year-old Attica resident, now faces a felony charge. He forced his way into an ex-girlfriend’s residence with an ax; she was not at home, at the time. Bumbarger said he was attempting to retrieve personal property but did not have permission to be at the residence. He was committed to Wyoming County Jail without bail and is to appear August 2 in Village Court. Bumbarger is an ex-con with a history of violence and sex abuse. He pleaded guilty in April 2016 to attempted assault and criminal possession of a weapon after stabbing and seriously injuring a man in November 2015. He was sentenced to 1 to 3 years in prison and released from Collins Correctional Facility on parole in July 2017, according to state records. Bumbarger is also a Level 2 sex offender after his conviction in August 2000 of first-degree sexual abuse for an incident involving a 19-year-old female in Warsaw.

Jerod Baltz

A Pavilion man has been acquitted of all charges in a four-year-old rape case that his attorney says should have never been prosecuted. 42-year-old Jerod Baltz of Pavilion was found not guilty of all charges against him, at the completion of a three-day bench trial with Judge Andrew Lotempio presiding. Baltz was arrested in March 2018 and accused of raping a woman he met at a bar and took home. He was jailed and later indicted but the case stalled in County Court and then again when COVID hit. Baltz had maintained his innocence from the beginning and even rejected a plea deal that would have gotten him probation without any prison time.

Candlelight vigils are being held at Tops stores across the region tonight to mark one month since the mass shooting in Buffalo that left 10 people dead and three others injured. The vigils will begin at 7pm in the parking lots of Western NY Tops locations, including Batavia. People who are attending are being asked to bring American flags, luminary bags and candles. On May 14th, Payton Gendron allegedly opened fire at the Tops store on Jefferson Avenue in what officials have called a racially motivated attack.

Governor Hochul

Governor Hochul has signed off on a new package of bills aimed at further protecting abortion rights. The governor says legislation will ensure a woman is never forced into a government-mandated pregnancy. One measure allows New Yorkers to sue people who are trying to limit their reproductive rights while another protects women wanted for having abortions in other states from extradition. The state health department is also required to conduct a study and issue a report on unmet health and resource needs for pregnant people in New York.

John Mulaney

A popular comedian has announced he’s going to be bringing his current tour to Rochester later this year. John Mulaney is scheduled to perform at the Kodak Center on Wednesday, November 9th. During his career, Mulaney has worked as a writer for Saturday Night Live, had several Netflix specials and won two Emmy awards. Tickets for the show go on sale this Friday through Ticketmaster and will cost at least $55.00 each.

Peter Pavlovich

A youth baseball coach is facing up to a year behind bars after admitting that he stole roughly $15,000. Prosecutors say 40-year-old Peter Pavlovich took the money between June 2017 and June 2020 while he was a coach for the Town of Clarence Baseball Association. Pavolich pleaded guilty yesterday to a misdemeanor charge and has already paid restitution. He will be sentenced in September.

Park Road construction

A little bit of good news on the Park Road construction…the $4,000,000 project is reportedly a little ahead of schedule. The east side of Park is ready to move to the next stage of work, which includes milling, stone and repaving. Once completed, the east side of the road will be opened up and work on the west side will begin. It is now expected that the entire project will be completed by mid-October. Photo courtesy of https://www.thebatavian.com/

The Rotary Club of Batavia is sponsoring their annual Father’s Day Breakfast this Sunday, June 19 at the Genesee County Airport. Breakfast will be served from 7 until 11 a.m. The menu including eggs, pancakes, sausage, omelets, juice, coffee, tea and milk. Tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for children ages 4-12. Children 3 and under eat free. Tickets are available from any Batavia Rotary Club member. All proceeds from the breakfast help fund the Batavia Rotary Club’s charitable projects.

It’s been about a month since prime contractors were told to proceed with work on the $57.27 million new jail for Genesee County. Foundation work is set to start June 27, which is about two weeks before the date listed on the project manager’s construction guideline. It is expected the new jail will be substantially completed by mid-January, 2024 with final completion set for about two months later, on March 15, 2024.

A young man who captured the hearts and minds of people across America, met president Goerge W Bush, and then became the team manager for Greece Athena High School, Jason McElwain, otherwise known as J-Mac, is in intensive care after a bicycle and car collision Monday afternoon.  According to police, McElwain drove his bike into a car, sending him to Strong Memorial Hospital with several broken ribs, among other injuries. His father said he also suffered a collapsed lung, but no head injuries.  Police said McElwain’s helmet likely spared him from a serious brain injury or worse.  Since his big night when he scored 6 3 point shots in 2006, McElwain served as a volunteer coach at his alma mater, co-authored a book, ran the Boston Marathon, suited up for the Rochester Razorsharks, and most recently has been serving as a classroom aide and bus monitor for Greece schools.  Police added they do not believe charges will be pressed in the crash.

With Roe V Wade hanging in the balance and America waiting for the Supreme Court decision after a draft was leaked in May, New York has pushed through legislation enshrining Abortion access and expanding services in preparation for Abortion tourism to come to the Empire State.  The Empire State provides nearly 1 in every 8 abortions in the US.  On Monday, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a package of bills to ensure the state will remain a safe harbor for people seeking to terminate their pregnancies. The laws include protections for abortion providers and patients.  Pro Life advocates want to see more money being put towards taking care of women who continue their pregnancies and the families after the baby is born.  People like Carol Crossed, president of Feminists Choosing Life of New York, says that the state is trying to take the easy way out instead of offering childcare, education or housing help to women in need.  Organizations such as Compasscare, Abortion Abolitionists and others have called on the State and federal government to pass legislation protecting crisis pregnancy centers, especially after several were firebombed over the last week including one in Amherst.

Frustrated by the construction on Park Road in front of Batavia Downs?  Concrete Applied Technologies Corp has an update.  The 4 million dollar project has reached the boxing out stage on the east side of the road, which means that the road is prepared for milling, stone and repaving.  After they are done with the east side it will be opened up for traffic and then the west side will get worked on.  Henry Wojtaszek, president of Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp., said the project is ahead of schedule, stating that he is confident work will be done by mid-October.

The Rotary Club of Batavia is holding its annual Father’s Day Breakfast on Sunday, June 19 at the Genesee County Airport.   Breakfast will be served from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. with the menu including eggs, pancakes, sausage, omelets, juice, coffee, tea and milk.  Tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for children ages 4-12.  Children 3 and under eat free.  Tickets are available from any Batavia Rotary Club member.  All proceeds from the breakfast will help fund the Batavia Rotary Club’s charitable projects.

Jennifer Sprague-Clark

Robbery, criminal possession of a weapon, grand larceny, coercion and menacing; that’s the list of charges against 39-year-old Jennifer Sprague-Clark of Batavia. She was arrested after a traffic stop, during which she fled on foot. Police used a taser to subdue Sprague-Clark, and took her into custody. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and is scheduled to return there tomorrow. (Photo: LinkedIn)

21-year-old Robert Doud of North Chili has been charged with a felony, including two counts of grand larceny, following theft from a vehicle in the Town of Batavia. Additional felony charges were later added when it was discovered he was in possession of stolen property, including credit cards, with which he attempted identity theft. Following his arrest in Bergen, Doud was released on his own recognizance.

Following mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde, Texas that left dozens of people dead, changes may be coming to the country’s gun laws. The framework of a bipartisan deal was announced yesterday and if approved, legislation would limit the ability of people to quickly obtain assault rifles by establishing an enhanced background check process for gun buyers under age 21. Federal penalties would also be established for gun traffickers and funds would be used to address the country’s mental health crisis. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer says once an agreement is finalized, he’ll bring the bill to the Senate floor for a vote.

You may have recently started noticing a small fee on your receipt when you purchase paint. It’s a Paintcare fee; they are a non-profit organization that represents paint makers in states with similar programs. Think of them as a middleman. What they do is set up drop-off sites to handle paint waste and recycling. In New York, the fee runs anywhere from $0.45 to $1.95 depending on how much architectural paint you’re buying. The fee is not a deposit or a tax; the money doesn’t get returned to you when you drop off paint nor does go to the state. Instead, Paintcare uses the funds to self-sustain because they do not receive monetary support from the state. They currently offer more than 200 drop-off sites here in New York, with at least one in Batavia. You can look locations up online: https://www.paintcare.org/

The New York State Department of Health reminds residents that COVID-19 booster vaccinations for kids between the ages of five and 11 years old are still available. Children in that age group should receive their booster shot five months after completing their initial two-dose Pfizer vaccine series. The vaccines are offered at no cost.

It’s becoming the ‘same old story’. This morning oil prices are at about $118 per barrel. Crude prices surged last week in response to global supply concerns amid expected demand increases, particularly as China emerges from lockdowns. The pain at the pump regionally keeps getting worse for Western New York drivers. Gas prices have reached another record high. According to Triple A this morning, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now sitting at $4.98. That’s up 20 cents in the past week, 33 cents in the last month and is nearly $2.00 ($1.92) more than this time one year ago. The state average is currently $5.04 a gallon while nationally its $5.01. In Batavia, the average price per gallon is the same as it was over the weekend, $4.92.

Ryan Miller

The Buffalo Sabres have announced plans to retire the jersey of one of the best players in franchise history next season. The number 30 is going to be raised to the rafters in honor of goalie Ryan Miller. He was selected by the franchise during the 1999 NHL Entry Draft and ended up playing 11 seasons for the Sabres. He earned a team record of 284 victories and retired with the most wins of any American-born goaltender. There’s no word yet when Miller’s jersey retirement ceremony will take place.

The Senate in Washington has announced a bipartisan agreement on some gun control legislation and New York Politicians are lauding it as a good step in the right direction to keep mass shootings from happening.  But some of the survivors of the TOPS shooting are less enthusiastic.  Grady Lewis says “This is like putting a band aid over the problem and actually creating a new problem where black people don’t have guns anymore.”  The agreement would make the juvenile records of gun buyers under age 21 available when they undergo background checks.  It would also offer money to states to implement “red flag” laws that make it easier to temporarily take guns from people considered potentially violent, and to bolster school safety and mental health programs.  President Biden said the framework “does not do everything that I think is needed, but it reflects important steps in the right direction.”

This was a weekend of parades and events.  The Goose in Oakfield hosted a fundraising event for The Warrior House and held a basket raffle and open house.  Dewitt Park had a family outdoor challenge with bug identification and informational sessions.  Richmond Memorial Library had a drag queen story hour following the Washington St Pride Parade.  The Firing Pin celebrated Freedom weekend and marched in the Bergen Festival Parade.  And this weekend had the first Eli Fish Carnival in Jackson Square with special craft brews and Matty’s Pizza, live music and vendors.  

Buffalo hosted a March for Our Lives event Saturday on Jefferson Avenue but, much like the march in Washington DC it was marred by fear.  At least one person was arrested for carrying a gun in the crowd.  19 year old Amauri Smith was arrested and charged with criminal possession of a weapon.  The rally in Washington nearly fell into bedlam when someone yelled out “gun shot” and it caused the thousands strong crowd to start fleeing for fear of a shooter before rally organizers could tell everyone to stop and not run away.  Both marches and others around the country were meant to rally against gun violence.

Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame inductee Ryan Miller was in town for the ceremony this weekend and learned he had another honor coming his way.  The Buffalo Sabres retiring his number from the team.  Miller, number 30, was the goalie for the Sabres for 11 seasons starting in 2005.  His 284 wins are a Sabres franchise record. After his career in Buffalo, he played another eight years in the NHL.  He retired with the most wins of any American-born goalie.  Miller also won a silver medal with Team USA in the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. The same year, he won the Vezina Trophy, given to the NHL’s best goaltender.

For the first time since 1998 there is a planned airshow coming to the Genesee County Airport.  “Wings Over Batavia” is now scheduled for September 15th-17th and will feature exhibitions by aerobatic jet teams such as the Blue Angels, Thunderbirds or Snowbirds and patriotic displays of F16 and F22 fighter jets.  County Highway Superintendent Tim Hens talked about why there hadn’t been an airshow in 24 years.

News_A :15 “Event Like That” 

The air festival is scheduled to take place in conjunction with the renewal of the Wing Ding event on Sept. 16 in the City of Batavia.  

Nick Langworthy, New York Republican Chairman, is throwing his hat into the ring for the newly created 23rd district after Chris Jacobs announced he won’t run this year.  Langworthy is a Southern Tier native from South Dayton, N.Y.  While he never ran for congress until now, he has served a number of roles in Republican politics. Past roles include District Director for former Congressman and NRCC Chairman Tom Reynolds and Erie County Republican Chairman.  In 2016, former President Donald Trump named Langworthy to the executive committee of his transition team. Trump called on Langworthy again in 2019 to lead the NYS Republican Party, making him the youngest person to lead the party in its history.  He is running against Carl Paladino in the primary and Retired Air Force Colonel Max Della Pia running as the only democrat in the race.

The ARC Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch run, where an officer of the Genesee County Sheriffs ran the torch from park road to the ARC building on Walnut Street, took place on Thursday.  Sheriff’s Department Investigator Chad Minuto ran the 5k route and passed the torch to Scott, an individual in the ARC’s Day Habilitation Program who carried the torch over the finish line.  The Law Enforcement Torch Run is an annual event that has been held at the Arc Chapter’s Genesee County location since 2005 and the rain didn’t dampen the flame that brings awareness to athletes with disabilities and the Special Olympics. 

Usually you think of firefighters blasting water onto a fire to save a burning building but the Oakfield Volunteer Fire Department took delivery of a different kind of water this week.  98 cases of Anheuser Busch canned water were donated to the firefighters by the beer company to be given out at events or to people who need emergency water supplies.  Anheuser-Busch says that since the program began, the company has donated 4.8 million cans of emergency drinking water to more than 900 volunteer fire departments across 49 states.

Genesee County officials and business leaders are already preparing for “Wings Over Batavia,” the first air show in our area since 1998. The show will feature aerobatic jet teams such as the Blue Angels, Thunderbirds or Snowbirds and patriotic displays of F16 and F22 fighter jets. The show is tentatively scheduled for September 15-17th, 2023 at the Genesee County Airport and is scheduled to take place in conjunction with the renewal of the Wing Ding event on Sept. 16 in the City of Batavia. Residents interested in volunteering in the planning of on-site operations should contact Tim Hens, the County Highway Superintendent (tim.hens@co.genesee.ny.us)

New York State Police in Troop A issued a warning today that scams targeting the elderly have once again become prevalent. Troop A includes Genesee, Wyoming and Orleans; police tell us they looked into over 442 fraud cases in 2021, across the 3 counties. And as of the end of March this year, they’ve investigated 113. Although numbers for the last two months have not been released, investigators say reports of scams and scam attempts have increased in the past few weeks. In fact, more than $500,000 has been reported stolen in such scams so far this year compared to a little over $1 million last year. Scammers take many different approaches to convince people that they are legitimate. Here are some suggestions to help you prevent from getting scammed:

1) The caller claims to be a family member who is sick or has been arrested.
2) The caller claims to be a law enforcement official saying a family member has been arrested and needs bail money or other funds.
3) The caller claims to be law enforcement and says that your Social Security number or bank accounts have been compromised. The caller will ask the person to verify their Social Security numbers of bank account numbers.
4) Emails or texts with an “URGENT” message regarding Social Security numbers, bank accounts, Apple, Netflx or Amazon accounts that were compromised.
5) Callers will ask victims to get money in multiple ways, including purchasing gift cards and sending the bar code on the back to the caller, sending case by mail in a packaged box or by purchasing crytpocurrency. Police agencies never ask for money for bail or for Social Security or bank account numbers and do not send texts. Anyone who believes that a call is a scam should “resist the urge to act immediately, no matter how dramatic the story is.” People also can verify a caller’s identity by asking questions that a stranger could never answer or to check with a family member to see if the account is true.
6) Lastly, police say, never send cash, gift cards or money transfers and never give out personal information by email or phone. Anyone who believes they are the victim of a scam can contact state or local police.

69-year-old Julious Murphy, also known as ‘Fatboy’, of Jerome Place Batavia, is charged with criminal sale and possession of a controlled substance. Murphy was arrested Sunday on a sealed Grand Jury indictment during a traffic stop by Batavia Police. He is accused of selling crack cocaine to an agent of the Local Drug Task Force while in Batavia. Murphy was arraigned in Genesee County Court and released under supervision.

Erica Rapfael

37-year-old Erica Raphael of Batavia was arrested on a warrant. She was sentenced on the charges contained in the warrant. Neither the charges nor the sentence were specified in the release provided by police.

Robert Ritchey

58-year-old Robert Ritchey of Oakfield, is charged with forcible touching, sex abuse of a victim less than 13 years old, and acting in a manner injurious to a child. The alleged incident was reported early in April and is considered a pending investigation. Ritchey was arrested by State Police on Wednesday. He was ordered held without bail. No further details were released.

A traffic alert to remind you about: If you’ll be driving on Columbia, Seneca and Miller Avenues in Batavia today until about 3pm, you should expect traffic delays. While work is being performed in this area, the roadway will be closed to all through traffic. Local traffic will be permitted to and from their residence or property but are asked not to park on the roadway during construction. Please contact the Bureau of Maintenance at 585-345-6400 Option 1 if there are any questions.

With gas prices reaching a record high, the New York State Division of Consumer Protection has issued some tips to help people save money. The agency recommends drivers choose the lowest octane recommended for their vehicle and compare the price advertised on the gas station’s sign and on the pump to ensure they’re the same. It’s also recommended that drivers maintain their vehicles so they can get the best possible fuel mileage. According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas in Batavia this morning is $4.92, up two cents from yesterday.

Mine, all mine

At least $455,000,000 will be up for grabs the next couple of days as the jackpots of two popular lottery games keep getting bigger. The prize for tonight’s Mega Millions drawing will be $226,000,000, and whoever picks the winning numbers for tomorrow evening’s Powerball game is in line to win $229,000,000. The cost of a ticket to play each game is $2.00. Both drawings will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

Brittanee Drexel

Raymond Moody

A public celebration of life is taking place this weekend for a 17-year-old from Chili who was murdered over a decade ago. A gathering in memory of Brittanee Drexel is happening tomorrow morning at 10:00, at The Fathers House on Paul Road in Rochester. Drexel was on vacation in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina in 2009 when she disappeared and her remains were only found recently. Police have arrested Raymond Moody in connection with this case.

William M. Sywak of Hamburg

William J. Sywak of Arcade

A father and son from Western New York have been punished for their actions during the violent protests at the U.S. Capitol. Yesterday, 46-year-old William M. Sywak of Hamburg and 28-year-old William J. Sywak of Arcade were sentenced to probation. Prosecutors say the Sywaks spent about 20 minutes inside the building on January 6th, 2021 before leaving and they have been ordered to pay 500-dollars restitution. Protestors stormed the Capitol in an attempt to prevent Congress from certifying President Biden’s victory over former President Donald Trump.

Sheriff John Garcia

The Erie County Sheriff’s Office has announced the creation of a new behavioral threat assessment team. Sheriff John Garcia says members will focus on trying to prevent someone from carrying out a violent attack like the mass shooting at the Tops supermarket on Jefferson Avenue in Buffalo last month that left 10 people dead and three others hurt. The man accused of carrying out the attack, Payton Gendron, is facing dozens of charges. Anyone who wants to join the team can contact the sheriff’s department.

Buffalo-Niagara International Airport

The Transportation Security Administration has announced the installation of some brand new scanners at Buffalo-Niagara International Airport. The scanners are located at the security checkpoint and will provide 3-D imaging that makes it easier for agents to screen carry-on items and detect explosives. If a bag requires further screening, a security officer is going to inspect it themselves to make sure there’s nothing dangerous inside. The scanners will also allow passengers to leave their laptops and other electronic devices in their carry-on bags.

A group of teenagers has been charged with a spree of carjackings in Rochester and Gates.  Two 15 year olds and a 16 year old are accused of holding a woman at gunpoint and pulling her from her car before driving it away on Wednesday night on Polaris street.  Tuesday they allegedly carjacked a man outside his apartment on Resolute Circle and another was attacked and had his car stolen at Poplar Gardens.  There were so many carjackings last year that a task force was formed in Monroe County after a man was shot to death during an attempted carjacking in Gates. Two teens pleaded guilty this week in Richard Sciascia’s death.  Rochester police are saying if someone approaches you and demands something, a phone, shoes, your car or anything else, just to give it to them.  No item is worth your life.  

The national price per gallon of regular unleaded is only 3 cents shy of 5 dollars which is up 10 cents from Monday.  It was 3.07 a year ago.  New York State’s is 1 cent over the 5 dollar mark even with the tax relief.  In Batavia we are a bit below average with prices hovering around 4.90 which is 15 cents up since Monday.  Oil has increased to 123 a barrel.  Seasonal demand coupled with cutting off the oil supply coming from Russia and investors not wanting to put money into the increasingly hostile US market have led to a record increase in prices.  Even with the high prices demand has stayed up.

Drivers on Columbia, Seneca and Miller Avenues in Batavia may experience delays between 7am and 3pm for cold milling operations. While work is being performed in this area, the roadway will be closed to all through traffic. Local traffic will be permitted to and from their residence or property but should plan accordingly for delays. All residents and businesses within the work area are asked not to park on the roadway during construction. This is weather dependent work; if work is postponed it shall progress the next workday.

A new airline is now operating in Buffalo, NY.  Sun Country Airlines is offering low cost flights to and from the Minneapolis St Paul International Airport for as low as 79 dollars a ticket Thursday through Sunday.  The Minnesota-based airline offers service to 80 destinations, including Charleston, Jacksonville, Spokane and Vancouver.  On Tuesday, low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines announced it was launching daily non-stop service from Buffalo to Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas starting August 9.

Country Music Star Garth Brooks is coming to Orchard Park on July 23rd and has a message to share with his fans in Buffalo and Western NY.   Tickets go on sale June 17th.

Dale Young, Jr.

A state appeals court has denied an appeal by a Batavia man convicted of sexually assaulting a child. 42-year-old Dale Young Jr. was arrested in 2018 and convicted in 2019 of three counts of third-degree criminal sexual act against a child under 17. He was convicted after a jury trial but was acquitted of the most serious charges against him, first-degree criminal sexual act and was sentenced to three years in state prison. Young appealed the conviction, claiming that the court should have barred testimony from the prosecution’s expert witness. He also claimed to have lacked effective counsel; however, the appeals court rejected each of Young’s claims. Young is set for release from prison later this year.

Tarrence Williams

22-year-old Tarrence Williams of Porter Avenue, Batavia, was arrested today on a Genesee County Court Indictment Warrant. He is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, a Class B felony, and two counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance, also a Class B felony. His arrest concluded an investigation by the Genesee County Local Drug Task Force into the transportation, sale, and possession of ‘crack’ cocaine in and around the City of Batavia. Williams was arraigned in Genesee County Court and was released on his own recognizance.

This morning, Batavia City Police responded to a Jackson Street residence for a report of a possible gunshot fired in the area but were unable to confirm that it actually happened. Sergeant Daniel Coffey noted that, even though police have thus far been unable to substantiate it, the investigation continues. No one was injured or has been taken into custody.

Western New York drivers are now paying more than ever to fill up their vehicles as gas prices have soared to new record highs. According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel in is now $4.95. That’s up 20 cents in the past week, 53 cents in the past month and is $1.91 higher than this time last year. The state average is now $5.00 a gallon while nationally it’s $4.97. In Batavia, the average price per gallon is $4.90, up one cent from yesterday and 18 cents from a week ago today.

A traffic alert to call your attention to: If you’ll be driving on Columbia, Seneca and Miller Avenues in Batavia tomorrow between 7am and 3pm, you should expect traffic delays. All motorists please be aware that Columbia Avenue, Seneca Avenue, and Miller Avenue will experience traffic delays on Friday, June 10th from 7AM to 3PM for cold milling operations. While work is being performed in this area, the roadway will be closed to all through traffic. Local traffic will be permitted to and from their residence or property but should plan accordingly for delays. All residents and businesses within the work area are asked not to park on the roadway during construction. This is weather dependent work; if work is postponed it shall progress the next workday. Please contact the Bureau of Maintenance at 585-345-6400 Option 1 if there are any questions.

Jae Lim

The owner of a local martial arts studio is in trouble with the law after being accused of disturbing crimes. Monroe County deputies say 50-year-old Jae Lim of Master Lim’s Taekwondo on Brockport-Spencerport Road in Brockport allegedly touched a 12-year-old in a sexual manner on more than one occasion last month. Lim was arraigned on sexual abuse and child endangerment charges and sent to the Monroe County Jail. Anyone with information on the case is asked to contact the sheriff’s office.

Officer Denny Wright

The man who brutally attacked a Rochester police officer has found out the punishment for his actions. Yesterday, a judge ordered Keith Williams to spend at least the next 40 years behind bars for assaulting Officer Denny Wright at a home on Peck Street back in October 2019. Wright suffered multiple stab wounds to his body and face and lost sight in both eyes. Wright spoke during yesterday’s sentencing, saying that while Williams took his vision, he won’t take another thing from him or his family.

Maurice Green

A reward is being offered for information that leads to an arrest in connection with a recent homicide in Buffalo. Crime Stoppers Western New York says up to $7500 will go to the person who helps police solve the murder of Maurice Green who was killed on Marine Drive back on April 24th. Anyone who has information on the case can call 716-867-6161. Tips can also be submitted by downloading the Crime Stoppers app.

The latest data from state health officials shows fewer people in our region are testing positive for COVID-19. The 7-day average infection rate is currently just under 5.9%. At this time last week, the infection rate was 7.9%. Even though the number of new coronavirus cases is falling, people are still being urged to take the proper precautions to protect themselves and others from getting sick such as being vaccinated against the illness and wearing a mask while indoors.

Officials with Tops Friendly Markets say they’re hoping to reopen the company’s Jefferson Avenue location in Buffalo by the end of July. The store was the scene of a mass shooting back on May 14th that left 10 people dead and three others injured. The man who allegedly carried out the shooting, Payton Gendron, was arrested and is facing more than two-dozen charges. The attack has been called a racially-motivated hate crime.

Congressman Chris Jacobs

Congressman Chris Jacobs was one of five Republicans to break party ranks and vote with Democrats in approving the “Protecting Our Kids Act,” intended to strengthen gun laws. The legislation, however, is expected to face a tough road in the Senate. The House voted 223-204 to pass the package of gun control legislation. Other measures include establishing new federal offenses for gun trafficking and for selling large-capacity magazines, and allow local governments to compensate individuals who surrender such magazines through a buyback program. In addition, there would be a new tax incentive for retail sales of safe storage devices and criminal penalties for breaking new requirements regulating firearm storage on residential premises. Jacobs has faced strong opposition since stating his support for the gun control measures Republican pushback for his stance, decided against running for election to a newly drawn 23rd Congressional District after many party leaders withdrew their endorsements.

The State University of New York schools are updating policies when it comes to a person’s chosen name and pronoun they wish to use. According to officials, the move is being made ensure that transgender, gender non-conforming, and non-binary students’ identities are fully reflected and represented. SUNY students will now be able to select ‘X’ when asked to provide gender by the college. The chosen names are going to appear on college diplomas, campus profiles and more.

Garth Brooks

Country music superstar Garth Brooks has announced a new on-sale date for tickets ahead of his upcoming concert at Highmark Stadium. Brooks says seats for his performance in Orchard Park on July 23rd will be available starting Friday, June 17th at 10am. Tickets were originally supposed to be available last month, but Brooks postponed the sale in the aftermath of the Tops supermarket shooting. There will be an 8-ticket limit on purchases.

30 years in prison and 1 million in fines for taking COVID relief money that wasn’t hers.  That’s what 37 year old Danielle Tooley plead guilty to Wednesday at a US district Court.  Tooley pled guilty to wire fraud from July 9th through December 4th 2020 where she applied for and collected unemployment benefits connected to federal COVID relief programs that she was not eligible for.  Her crime was discovered during a traffic stop in Bergen on Nov. 24, 2020 by New York State Police. A trooper found crack cocaine in her car. As her vehicle was being prepared to be towed, troopers found six New York State unemployment benefit cards issued to individuals other than Tooley. An investigation discovered Tooley withdrew money from bank accounts associated with the cards several times.

A report released by New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s office found that 90 percent of New York schools don’t offer mental health training or provide insufficient training.  All faculty and staff working in New York’s 800-plus school districts are required to receive annual safety and mental health training with the 12 components outlined by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under the New York Safe Schools Against Violence in Education Act, or the SAVE Act. The law requires school administrators to develop a comprehensive, districtwide safety plan to address crisis intervention, emergency response and management for staff and students.  School districts were audited between July of 2020 and June of 2021.  Many of the schools audited said they didn’t know about the mental health requirements or that COVID had forced them to prioritize student’s health against the virus instead of mental health.

Students going to SUNY and CUNY schools will be able to select “X” as their gender and have their chosen pronoun protected by a new policy that was announced Wednesday.  Campuses will be required to have all operational systems reflect a student’s chosen name and pronouns, including campus portals, class rosters, email addresses and more.  Governor Hochul said “Every person, regardless of their gender identity or the name they choose to go by, deserves to have identity documentation that reflects who they are.”  The changes go into effect at the beginning of the fall semester.

Kill the eggs.  That’s what New York Department of Environmental Conservation representative Justin Perry says people can do about the spongy caterpillars that eat trees and other plants.  He says to scrape off the spongy looking eggs from the trees and soak them in soapy water to destroy them.  There are also sticky bands you can put around the trees that will stop some of the caterpillars from being able to climb the trunks.  Perry also said that the caterpillars should be gone in a few years and will be dormant for the next 15 to 20 after that.

One of the new businesses going into the parking lot of the Kmart on Lewiston and Park Roads is a Starbucks.  The property owner Benderson Development, LLC, made the announcement Wednesday morning. The company shared that they are working closely with three other tenants and will provide additional details once leases are signed.

37-year-old Danielle Tooley of Batavia has pleaded guilty to wire fraud. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Rossi stated that between July 9 and December 4, 2020, Tooley applied for and collected unemployment benefits to which she was not entitled, benefits that were connected to federal COVID-19 relief programs. The scheme came to the attention of law enforcement on November 24, 2020, when Tooley was arrested for criminal possession of a controlled substance during a vehicle traffic stop on Clinton Street in Bergen. Tooley admitted at the time that she had crack cocaine in the center console of the vehicle. As they prepared for Tooley’s vehicle to be towed, troopers recovered six New York State unemployment benefit cards issued to individuals other than Tooley, which they turned over to the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. Subsequent investigation determined that Tooley consistently withdrew money from bank accounts associated with the benefit cards. Sentencing is scheduled for August 17, 2022.

Justice Coniglio

A Basom resident has admitted in County Court that he stole a vehicle and assaulted a police officer; with this admission, he traded for a potential prison term of no more than seven years. 31-year-old Justice Coniglio entered guilty pleas to grand larceny for the theft of a vehicle and also assault in connection with an incident at his home. His plea deal caps his sentence at 1 1/3 to three years on the grand larceny conviction and 3 1/2 to seven years on the assault conviction, with the sentences to run concurrently. The plea also satisfied pending charges of resisting arrest and obstruction of governmental administration. (Additional information: The assault charge seemed to stem from an incident that also involved Justice’s brother, Jarrett Coniglio. Jarrett hit a neighbor, while on the neighbor’s property, over the head with a beer bottle and then was involved in the fight with deputies that led to one of the deputies being bit by K-9 “Frankie.” The deputy suffered a puncture wound. Justice Coniglio will be sentenced at 1:30 p.m. Aug. 30. In the meantime, Judge Melissa Cianfrini ordered that he remain held in the Genesee County Jail.)

Starbucks Logo

Starbucks will be one of the tenants in the development to come in the parking lot of the vacant Kmart building at Lewiston and Park roads. The property owner Benderson Development, LLC, made the announcement this morning. The company shared that they are working closely with three other tenants and will provide additional details once leases are signed.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that $46 million is earmarked for investment into two pavement improvement projects on the New York State Thruway in both Erie and Genesee counties. The two projects include resurfacing of more than 100 lane miles of the Thruway between exit 47 (Rochester – Le Roy – I-490 – NY Route 19) to beyond exit 48A (Pembroke – Medina – NY Route 77). A $23.4 million pavement improvement project on the Thruway in Genesee County is underway on a 15.5-mile stretch between exit 47 (Rochester – Le Roy – I-490 – NY Route 19) and exit 48 (Batavia – NY Route 98). Approximately 39,000 motorists travel on this section of I-90 every day. The project includes full and partial depth repairs as well as full pavement resurfacing. Additionally, pavement-resurfacing work will take place at the on- and off-ramps at exit 47 and exit 48, as well as the exit 47 Commuter Park and Ride lot. Reflective line striping for enhanced safety will also be applied. Cold Spring Construction Company of Akron, NY is the contractor for the project. Work is expected to be complete in summer 2023.

Alexander Town Hall

An hour-long Public Hearing was held at the Alexander Town Hall last night (Tuesday June 7), in regard to three variances for a proposed 650-foot-tall wind turbine on Drybridge road. One variance request is looking to increase the height allowed from a 500 feet to 650 feet, the other two variances were in reference to changing setback requirements. The board did not take a vote on the variance requests after the public hearing and have 62 days to make a decision and take a vote. According to Codes/Zoning Officer Matt Mahaney, if the ZBA grants the variance requests, the project would move to the Planning Board where a special use permit would have to be approved along with site plan approval. If the zoning board decides not to approve the three variances, the project would be stalled and would not advance to the Planning Board. Town Board input is optional. Decisions may be made at the next zoning board meeting on July 26th.

After last year’s virtual run, the Kiwanis Club of Batavia is glad to be bringing back the Independence Day 5K run at Centennial Park on Monday, July 4th. Proceeds from the race will be distributed to the Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park, Batavia City School Foundation for the Community Schools Program, and the Kiwanis activity fund; the latter of which, supports community events such as the Thanksgiving Morning Skate and Annual Easter Egg Hunt.

Yesterday, the Muckdogs beat the Jamestown Tarp Skunks 12 to 6. They are now 4 and 1; their next game against the Capital City Reds is at home tonight at 7pm.

State Police have released the results of their recent Memorial Day weekend traffic enforcement campaign. From 6:00pm on Friday, May 27th through 3:00am on Tuesday, May 31st. A total of 13,688 tickets were given out statewide for violations such as speeding and distracted driving. There were also 213 people arrested for DWI. During last year’s Memorial Day weekend enforcement campaign, a little over 14,000 (14,249) tickets were issued and 185 people were arrested for DWI.

CompassCare building

Amherst police say a fire that happened at a pregnancy services office in their community is being investigated as arson. Crews were called to the scene at CompassCare on Eggert Road yesterday and arrived to find the building had been broken into and was burning. CompassCare officials claim a group that has opposing viewpoints on abortion set the fire. Two firefighters were injured while battling the flames but will be OK. Anyone who has information on this case is asked to call police.

There are just a few weeks until the start of training camp and the Buffalo Bills have now finalized their preseason schedule. The first preseason game will be August 13th at 4:00 at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park against the Indianapolis Colts; their second is also happening at home against the Denver Broncos at 1:00 on August 20th. Their final preseason contest is August 26th on the road against the Carolina Panthers. The Bills kick off their regular season September 8th against the defending Super Bowl champion Los Angeles Rams.

Joseph Gramaglia

Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia will be in the nation’s capital today to testify in front of members of Congress. Gramaglia told The Buffalo News that he’s going to call on lawmakers to take steps towards preventing future gun violence following a mass shooting at the Tops store on Jefferson Avenue last month. Prosecutors say Payton Gendron carried out the shooting that left 10 people dead and three others hurt. He is facing more than two-dozen charges and is behind bars without bail.

Governor Hochul during debate

With just weeks until the primary, three Democrats looking to be their party’s nominee in the race for New York governor have held their first debate together. Last night, Governor Hochul, Long Island Congressman Tom Suozzi and New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams discussed several issues such as gun control, abortion rights, and the plan to build a new stadium for the Buffalo Bills. The next debate for the candidates is June 16th. Voters will head to the polls on June 28th to cast their ballots in the Democratic primary.

Officials in the Gananda Central School District say they’re looking into ways to improve school safety following a recent scare. On Friday, an eighth-grader said there was a person with a gun inside of Gananda Middle School but it turned out that was not the case. Last night, district leaders and police met with parents to discuss the incident, which led to the student being arrested. Law enforcement will continue to have an increased presence at Gananda schools.

Richard Sciascia

Two teenagers have pleaded guilty in connection with a deadly attempted carjacking last year. Prosecutors say 17-year-old Anthony Jacobs and 17-year-old Edgar Tolentino tried to steal Richard Sciascia’s vehicle at gunpoint on Buell Road in Gates in April 2021. Sciascia was shot and later died at Strong Memorial Hospital. As part of his plea deal, Tolentino will get 20 years to life in prison. Jacobs will be sentenced to 15 to 25 years behind bars.

A fire at a pro life center in Amherst is being investigated as Arson.  CompassCare in Amherst on Eggert Rd, part of a regional chain of women’s crisis centers which provide counseling, ultrasounds, STD testing, Abortion Pill reversal and access to care during and after pregnancy all for free, was firebombed Tuesday early in the morning.  Workers at the clinic believe it was done by a radical Pro-Abortion group called “Janes Revenge” because of graffiti found after the fire that says “Jane was here.”  CEO Jim Harden says a similar clinic was targeted in Madison, Wisconsin last month with Jane’s revenge claiming responsibility and threatening more sites.  Harden held a news conference outside the clinic Tuesday afternoon saying the fire was no accident. He says fires were set inside causing extensive damage.  Police said two firefighters were treated for minor injuries and the fire is being investigated as arson at this time.

According to court officials, Albany City court was closed on Tuesday for fumigation after hundreds of cockroaches were released during a court procedure.  The incident occurred Tuesday morning during an arraignment of 4 people, where one of the defendants began to record court proceedings.  When told to stop, we’re told that a fight escalated and cockroaches were then released from plastic containers.  Clyanna Lightbourn, 34, was charged with disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, criminal contempt, and tampering with physical evidence.  It’s unclear who released the cockroaches and how this person managed to bring them inside the court.  Lucian Chalfen, director of public information with the Unified Court System said that an investigation into the incident is underway and more people may be charged.  

The Kiwanis Club of Batavia will be bringing back the Independence Day 5K run on Monday the 4th of July this year.  They said they are so excited to be doing it in person again at Centennial park as last year they had to go virtual.  Proceeds from the race will be distributed to the Autism Nature Trail at Letchworth State Park, Batavia City School Foundation for the Community Schools Program, and lastly the Kiwanis activity fund which supports community events such as the Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Thanksgiving Morning Skate and others.

The Muckdogs beat the Auburn Doubledays 6 to 5.  Monday’s game at Dwyer Stadium was delayed by rain a few times.  Then Tuesday the Dogs beat the Jamestown Tarp Skunks 12 to 6.  The Muckdogs are now 4 and 1 with their next game against Capital City Reds at home tonight at 7pm.

The Batavia Police Department is looking for help in identifying a person of interest in a larceny at Tops Supermarket which occurred on 06/02/2022 at approximately 10:05 AM. Anyone with information on the identity of the person in the photo is asked to contact Officer Christopher Lindsay at 585-345-6350 or the confidential tip line at 585-345-6370. Please do not post tips on Facebook or Twitter as the posts are not continuously monitored.

The price of gas for regular unleaded went up an average of 6 cents a gallon since yesterday to $4.94, an all-time high in New York state. AAA reports this morning that Monday’s price of $4.88 was down 5 cents from a week ago, while the national price jumped 25 cents in the week. The state price was down due to the state suspending its 4-percent share of the sales tax on gas. That knocked about 16 cents off the price. But the cost has continued to go up. The price of crude oil is about $120 a barrel. While regular unleaded is at an all-time high, diesel is at $6.30 a gallon. In Batavia, the average price per gallon is $4.83 per gallon, up 8 cents from yesterday but is the same as it was a week ago. Several counties have average prices over $5 a gallon; most are downstate (Franklin, Clinton, Hamilton, Queens, Kings (Brooklyn), Richmond (Staten Island), New York (Manhattan), Bronx, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam and Duchess.) Westchester County, with the Hudson River on one side and Connecticut on the other, has the highest average price at $5.148 a gallon for regular unleaded.

New York has started mailing out homeowner tax rebate checks several months earlier than originally planned. The homeowner tax rebate credit is a one-year program providing direct property tax relief to nearly three million eligible homeowners in 2022. New York is set to spend $2.2 billion in one-time property tax rebates, but was expected to arrive this fall. As stated on the Department of Taxation and Finance website, New Yorkers that are eligible don’t need to do anything—you’ll automatically be sent a check for the amount of your credit. If you don’t get your check by early July, expect it before your school tax bill is due. Their contact center can’t provide a specific timeframe.  https://www.tax.ny.gov/pit/property/homeowner-tax-rebate-credit.htm#definition-of-income

There are now even tougher gun laws on the books in New York State after Governor Hochul signed off on several pieces of legislation. Among the bills she approved yesterday was a measure raising the age to purchase a semiautomatic rifle to 21-years-old. There are also new restrictions on civilian purchases of bullet proof body armor and new semiautomatic handguns are required to have microstamping technology. Social media companies must also have a way for users to report hateful conduct they see online.

There is an ongoing police investigation in Orleans County involving an altercation at the Holley Middle School last week. This is surrounding a student who identifies as transgender. The incident happened during school on June 2nd when a 7th grader, who goes by the name River, was wearing a rainbow pride flag at school. Another student reportedly pulled the flag, which River was wearing as a cape and had been fastened around his neck. In response, River pulled the other student’s backpack. The other student had then yanked on the flag, again, but this time harder, pulling River down. This led to a physical fight between the two students. The school district had contacted the students’ parents and both students were disciplined according to school protocol (both were suspended) and police report. River’s mom, Robayn Perrin, however, says her child had been subject to bullying for months. Police say this is an ongoing investigation.

A student at Gananda Middle School has been arrested after Wayne County deputies say he falsely reported an incident. Last Friday, the eighth-grader claimed there was someone inside the school with a gun but it turned out that wasn’t true. This incident happened just days after a Gananda High School student was charged with making a terroristic threat. In that case, the student posted a photo online that showed him posing with what appeared to be an assault weapon.

Family members who were affected by the shooting at a Jefferson Avenue Tops store will be spending some time on Capitol Hill this week. They’ll be speaking with lawmakers during Congressional hearings that are scheduled for today and tomorrow. Back on May 14th, Peyton Gendron allegedly opened fire at the supermarket, killing 10 people and injuring three others in what is being called a racially-motivated hate crime. He was indicted last week on over two-dozen charges and is behind bars without bail.

Robert Maharrey

A state appeals court has denied an appeal by a decorated Marine veteran who is serving a state prison sentence for assaulting a police officer during a concert at Darien Lake. 27-year-old Mississippi resident Robert Maharrey is serving a three years and six months sentence for the 2018 assault at a Jason Aldean concert. Maharrey appealed a jury verdict, claiming that the injuries a Genesee County sheriff’s deputy suffered were not serious enough to warrant a felony assault conviction. However, the appeal was denied as it was determined the police officer sustained a serious physical injury. Maharrey attended the concert with his sister and got involved in a brawl where he punched a woman in the face, fought with security guards, spit in a deputy’s face and then head-butted another deputy, causing those serious injuries. Maharrey claimed he did not remember the incidents. At his sentencing, he spoke of his family’s 214- year history of serving the country and of his own service, which included numerous commendations and awards. Maharrey had no criminal history at the time; however, the judge said he had to have consequences for his actions.

Dominic Pezzola

A Rochester man who is accused of being involved in violent protests at the U.S. Capitol is in some more legal trouble. Prosecutors have charged Dominic Pezzola with seditious conspiracy after they say he knowingly tried to use force to prevent the lawful transition of presidential power. (Seditious means: disposed to arouse or take part in) Pezzola allegedly used a stolen police shield to smash a window at the Capitol on January 6th, 2021 and smoked a cigar inside the building. Pezzola is scheduled to appear in federal court on Thursday.

A Chili man faces several felony charges after he led police on a high-speed chase that started on Clinton Street Road in Stafford with a juvenile in his car. Genesee County Sheriffs tell us that 19-year-old Logan Biedrzycki refused to stop for a deputy and fled at a high rate of speed before finally being stopped on Route 33. He was charged with three counts of first-degree reckless endangerment, unlawful fleeing a police officer, endangering the welfare of a child, reckless driving, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon and numerous traffic violations. He was arraigned in Town Court and released to appear July 12.

Walden Galleria Mall

The company that owns Walden Galleria has avoided defaulting on its over 230-million-dollar loan after signing a three-year extension with its lenders. In a statement, Pyramid Management Group said this extension would allow the company to continue reinvesting in the shopping center. There have been several new stores added to the mall recently and plans are in the works for a Five Below and Irish department store to open soon. The mall and its businesses currently employ about 4000 people.

Kevin Hart

A comedian who is a star both on the stage and silver screen will be making an appearance in Buffalo later this year. Kevin Hart is bringing his “Reality Check Tour” to KeyBank Center on Friday, October 28th. During his career, the 42-year-old Hart has been nominated for both an Emmy and Grammy award. Tickets for the show are scheduled to go on sale to the general public at 10am Friday and they can be purchased at kevinhartnation.com.

Governor Kathy Hochul signed a package of Gun Control legislation into law including raising the age that a person can purchase a rifle from 18 to 21.  Also among the new laws was a law enabling medical providers to flag people who should not have guns, restricting body armor to police and other emergency personnel and microstamping to make guns more traceable by the bullets they fire.  Critics of the new laws say they wouldn’t have stopped the mass shootings here or in Texas, what is needed is enforcing the laws already on the books.  A red flag law that should have kept guns out of the hands of the TOPs shooter wasn’t funded or fully functional even though it was passed and signed in 2019.  Critics like Tom King, Executive Director of New York State Rifle and Pistol Association, say these laws are just window dressing and won’t achieve anything.  Hochul and other state lawmakers are calling on the federal government to enact a ban on “assault weapons” although King says there is no such thing.

Crossroads House has a new executive director in Charlotte Crawford.  Crawford had been serving as interim director since Jeff Allen left.  Crawford has been a nurse and a teacher for many years.  She teaches Nursing Leadership at GCC.  Her last 22 years were spent at Lake Plains Community Care Network, a rural health network covering Orleans, Genesee, and Wyoming Counties. She began her employment as the Care Management Developer, followed by Associate Director, and the last 6 years as the CEO.

Western New York drivers are feeling a little bit of relief at the gas pumps these days as prices are finally starting to fall a bit.  The state average is $4.87 per gallon and nationally it’s $4.85. In Batavia the average price per gallon is $4.75, down a dime since last Monday.  The gas in New York is a bit cheaper because of the tax relief giving drivers around 16 cents off each gallon.  Gas stations are still catching up to the price changes, some are still near 5 dollars while some have altered their prices to nearer 4.70. 

Dave Chappelle performed at Shea’s on Sunday and is now announcing he is donating all proceeds from the show to the families of the victims of the Tops Shooting.  Other big names are set to perform in Buffalo in the coming months.  Kevin Hart is coming to the KeyBank Center in October and Alice Cooper will be performing at Sheas Performing Art Center in September. 

Genesee County Sheriffs continue their investigation today into gunshots that were fired at several residences in the town of Bethany. The incidents occurred on Bethany Center Road starting a little after 9pm Saturday and continued into early Sunday morning. There is no known motive for the attacks and no one in particular appears to have been targeted. A 2 door dark blue car with a loud exhaust was witnessed driving up and down the street earlier in the evening. No one was injured. Anyone with information about this should call the sheriffs at 343-5000 and talk to investigator DeLong at extension 3572.

Alyssa Alhadeff

Alyssa’s Law goes to the governor’s desk to sign days after strict gun legislation was sent to Governor Hochul for her signature. Alyssa’s Law would require school districts statewide to seriously consider installing silent panic alarms to alert law-enforcement authorities during emergencies. It’s named for Alyssa Alhadeff, a 14-year-old who was killed in her English class in 2018 during the Parkman, Florida school massacre.

After a two-year break, Batavia City Firefighters will once again be passing the boot for donations a week from Friday, June 17th. They will be standing in the street from 8:30 to 1:30 on Court and Main and Court and Ellicott. Donations collected during the Fill the Boot campaign support researching neuromuscular diseases such as ALS, muscular dystrophy, and other diseases. Donations will also provide support for families affected by these diseases and opportunities for children affected to go to camps with other children.

Western New York drivers are feeling a little bit of relief at the gas pumps these days as prices are finally starting to fall a bit. According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $4.78. That’s down 10 cents from last week, but is still 55 cents more than a month ago and $1.75 cents higher than this time last year. The state average is $4.87 per gallon and nationally it’s $4.85. In Batavia, as of this morning, the average price per gallon is $4.75; up one cent from yesterday but down a dime since last Monday.

Some new data from the state Department of Health shows the adult cigarette-smoking rate is at an all-time low in New York State. In 2020, that rate was sitting at 12%, which is below the national average of 15.5%. Among people between the ages of 18 and 24, the smoking rate is 5.5%. However, diseases that are caused by smoking and secondhand smoke still cause over 22,000 deaths statewide each year. Anyone who needs help quitting smoking can call the New York State Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-697-8487 or visit nysmokefree.com.

Opening night at Dwyer Stadium was a success in more ways than one; Saturday night, the Muckdogs beat the Pioneers 6 to 4. In addition to the game, there were plenty of fun activities including a memorial presentation, races around the bases, and fireworks. The Muckdogs had been on a two game winning streak, but then lost yesterday to Niagara Power. The Muckdogs return home to take the field this evening against Auburn; game time is 7pm.

Tom Reed

Governor Hochul has officially announced a special election to fill the vacant seat in the 23rd Congressional District. The position has been empty since last month when former Congressman Tom Reed resigned to take a job with Prime Policy Group, which is a public relations and government relations agency in Washington, DC. The election will happen on Tuesday, August 23rd. The candidate who wins will serve until the end of the year.

A Geneva man has been arrested by State Police on several disturbing charges. Troopers say 56-year-old Andrew Jensen was taken into custody Saturday and is accused of sexual conduct against a child, among other crimes. Jensen was arraigned and released to pretrial services but must wear an electronic monitoring bracelet. Anyone who has information on this case is asked to contact State Police.

Genesee County Sheriffs are investigating reports of a series of gunshots fired at several residences in the town of Bethany late Saturday night.  The incidents occurred on Bethany Center Rd between Mayne and Raymond Rds at about 9pm and then into the early morning.  There is no known motive for the attacks.  A 2 door dark blue car with a loud exhaust was witnessed driving up and down the street before the shots were heard.  Anyone with information about this should call 585 343 5000 and talk to investigator DeLong at extension 3572.

Alyssa’s Law goes to the governor’s desk to sign days after strict gun legislation was sent to be signed by Governor Hochul.  Alyssa’s law makes it so schools must have a panic button accessible in the case of a life threatening event to alert Law Enforcement.  It’s named for Alyssa Alhadeff, a 14-year-old who was killed in her English class at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida in 2018.

Opening night at Dwyer Stadium saw the Muckdogs beat the Pioneers 6 to 4.  There were plenty of exciting events Saturday night with cheerleaders, a memorial presentation, races around the bases, fireworks and more.  The dogs had been on a streak of 2 wins but lost Sunday to Niagara Power.  The Muckdogs play again tonight at home at 7pm.  

The dedication of the new name for the Batavia Ice Rink brought over 150 friends, family and supporters to the newly christened David M. McCarthy Memorial Arena for the ceremony.  Guy Pellegrino bought the naming rights for the arena for 3100 a year for the next 10 years.  Pellegrino played hockey with McCarthy on the Batavia High team.  McCarthy was killed in a car accident in 2006.  The McCarthy Foundation, Friends of the Rink, Genesee Amateur Hockey Association, city management and other supporters are working to improve youth athletics in Genesee County. 

Oliver’s Candies and Eli Fish Brewing Company are collaborating to bring a new kind of confection to the people.  Beer Brittle, peanut brittle with a beer base instead of water, is being created to mark the anniversary of both businesses.  Eli Fish is approaching 4 years old and Oliver’s is coming up on 90.  The Beer used is Bad Bad Leroy Brown, a sweet beer, and it is added to the malt, sugar and peanuts.  The beer-brittle is being sold at both Oliver’s Locations — Batavia and Elba, as well as at Eli Fish.

City Firefighters will be passing the boot for donations toward the Muscular Dystrophy Association on Friday June 17th.  They will be standing in the street from 8:30 to 1:30 on Court and Main and Court and Ellicott.  Donations collected during the Fill the Boot campaign will support researching neuromuscular diseases such as ALS, muscular dystrophies, and other diseases.  Donations will also provide support for families affected by these diseases and opportunities for children affected to go to camps with other children.

A student in Kendall found out the cost of making a threat online.  A 14 year old student and their parents have been charged in relation to a threat made against Kendall Central School district.  The student made the threat on social media Friday and within minutes police were at the school and the student was searched, their locker and bag were searched.  The student’s residence was searched and the parents lied about what was in the house.  No weapons were found at school but weapons and ammunition were found at the home.  The student was taken to Strong for mental health evaluations.  The student is being charged with Felony Making a Terroristic Threat.  The Parents are charged with endangering the welfare of a child.

You may have noticed that gas is a little bit cheaper since June 1st.  The state wide gas sales tax has been suspended till December 31st and is saving drivers an average of 16 cents per gallon.  Counties have jumped on the bandwagon as well, capping their taxes for additional savings.  In the GLOW region, Livingston County has capped theirs to only collect taxes on the first 3 dollars per gallon saving drivers an additional 7 cents at the rate gas is right now.  County Executive Matt Landers of Genesee county says that, while a gas tax holiday has been discussed for Genesee the legislature has opted not to suspend taxes.  Landers says losing the tax revenue from Thruway travelers would take bites out of infrastructure spending and keeping property taxes down.

The New York State Agriculture department announced that the ban on Poultry Shows, auctions, meets, swaps and exhibitions is over.  Poultry were restricted because of Avian Influenza, 8 flocks in New York tested positive and thousands of birds had to be destroyed to stop the contagion.  The last positive case was nearly 2 months ago with the last detection being in Fulton County April 6th.  The bans were put into place on March 25th and April 14th.  No word yet on if there will be poultry show at the New York State Faire.

New York has ended its legislative session with a flurry of legislations.  One that is the first in the nation is a targeted move to place a moratorium on cryptocurrency mining, specifically that which is housed in Fossil Fuel Burning Power plants.  This move is aimed at a company on Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes which has had activists accusing the company of increasing the temperature of the lake for the past several years. 

The State Senate and Assembly both passed a package of bills cracking down on gun violence. The bills include banning the sale and possession of semi-automatic rifles for anyone under the age of 21, requiring anyone wanting to buy one of those rifles receive a permit, restricting civilian purchases of bullet-resistant body armor, and require new guns be equipped with microstamping technology which would help law enforcement investigators trace bullets to specific firearms.  The bills passed on party lines with Republicans saying these laws would not prevent any shootings and that Democrats should put aside politics and work on actual solutions.

Representative Jacobs has announced he will not run for reelection.  He came under fire after saying he would support gun control legislation, including a federal assault weapons ban.  He serves the 27th district which was changed in the new election map. 

Luis Gabriel Torres

The Le Roy Police Department has arrested Luis Gabriel Torres and charged him with felonies, the most serious of which include intent to cause physical injury with a weapon, attempted assault, and criminal possession of a weapon after a previous conviction. Torres was remanded to the Genesee County Jail and will return to court on June 7th to answer the charges.

Wyoming County Sherriff’s deputies tell us a Batavia man now faces felony charges after he was found to be driving while high with two teenagers in the car, along with concentrated cannabis. Sheriffs stopped 21-year-old Memphis Chamberlain during the DWI crackdown over Memorial Day Weekend. He appeared high on drugs and the odor of marijuana was inside the car. Two teenagers, age 15 and 17, were passengers. The 17-year-old had more than 24 grams of concentrated cannabis in her possession and told police Chamberlain gave it to her. Chamberlain was charged with driving while impaired by drugs, felony aggravated DWI with a child in the car, felony criminal sale of cannabis, unlawful possession of cannabis, unlicensed operation, driver’s view obstructed, modified muffler and unauthorized stickers on windows. He is to appear at a later date in Town Court.

A Batavia man needed to be flown by Mercy Flight to Strong Memorial Hospital. He suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns yesterday afternoon as he was getting a lawn mower from his shed. He believes he accidentally hit an igniter on a propane grill, which caused a spark and the vapors exploded. The man was reportedly burned across 60 percent of his body.

Mobile Wagering

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that New York’s recently launched mobile sports wagering has generated a record-breaking amount of tax revenue in less than six months, surpassing states that have offered sports wagering for years. According to New York state data, the state has generated more than $267 million from sports wagering since January. Mobile sports wagering accounted for $263 million of that.

The Genesee Country Farmer’s Market is located at Alva and Bank Streets in Batavia and they opened today for the season. Vendors will be on hand Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9am until 4pm through October 28th.

Payton Gendron

The suspect who allegedly killed 10 people at a Tops store in Buffalo has pleaded not guilty to over two-dozen charges. Yesterday, 18-year-old Payton Gendron was back in court after he was indicted by a grand jury for murder, attempted murder and domestic terrorism. Prosecutors say Gendron carried out the shooting at the supermarket on May 14th in what’s been called a racially-motivated hate crime. Gendron remains behind bars without bail and faces the possibility of life in prison if convicted.

Dave Chappelle

A comedian who is known to people around the world is bringing his latest tour to Buffalo this weekend. Dave Chappelle is set to take the stage at Shea’s Performing Arts Center on Sunday at 7:00pm. No cell phones are allowed at the show and people are asked to leave those devices at home or in their vehicles. Anyone who is caught with a cell phone will be removed from the theater. Tickets for the performance are still available and can be purchased through Live Nation.

Letitia James

State Attorney General Letitia James is reminding New Yorkers about the risks of investing in cryptocurrency. She says cryptocurrencies often have significant price swings and the market reached record lows last month that cost investors billions of dollars. James is urging people to be cautious so they don’t lose any of their hard-earned money. She’s also asking anyone who believes they’ve been a victim of investment fraud to contact the Investor Protection Bureau.

The Genesee County Economic Development Center Board of Directors approved an agreement supporting the O-AT-KA Milk Products 3,200 square foot facility expansion. O-AT-KA had proposed a $3.1 million investment that would be home to two new 18,000-gallon tanks. The goals of the project include increased capacities of cream-based liquor beverages and future expansions. The project is proposing to create two new jobs at a leading employer in Genesee County’s food and beverage manufacturing ecosystem.

Buffalo police have released new information their investigation into what caused a vehicle to crash into a building. According to police, the man behind the wheel had been shot before the vehicle struck a building in the area of Genesee Street and Bissell Avenue Wednesday night. The man was pronounced dead at the scene and a passenger went to Erie County Medical Center where they’re in serious condition. The names of the victims haven’t been made public and anyone with information can call police.

The dedication and unveiling of the signage at the David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena is set for 6:00 this evening at 22 Evans St., Batavia. A food stand fundraiser will open at 5, featuring hotdogs, chips and water, with proceeds going to the David McCarthy Memorial Foundation. Everyone is invited to attend. Also, the David McCarthy Memorial Golf Tournament is scheduled for tomorrow.

A man was taken to the hospital by Mercy Flight chopper after being severely burned when his grill exploded.  The Batavia Fire department say a man on Cherry Street in Batavia had left the grill on or that the tank or hose had a leak when he accidentally hit the igniter Thursday, causing the built up gasses to explode and cause 2nd degree burns across 60 percent of his body.  He was pulling a lawn mower from his shed when the explosion happened.

Do you like loud engines and high flying acrobatics?  Well the Geneseo Airshow is here for you!  This weekend the warplanes will be on and above the field just west of Geneseo from 11am till the show is done.  Gate opens at 9.  They are doing a tailgate or drive in style viewing this year with a general seating area also available.  Headliners will be the USAF F-22 Raptors Demo team, The Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association Formation Team, and the Round Chute Jump Team among many others.  If you can’t make it Saturday the same events will be performed Sunday.  Tickets are 35 dollars a person for General admission seating or starting at 100 for car seating.

Our news partner the Batavian has named a new news editor, Joanne Beck.  Beck has been freelancing for the Batavian since August and began her new staff position in May.  She took over the City and County beats from Mike Pettinella and will also be covering schools.  Beck has a Bachelors in News/Media and has been active in journalism in the area for many years.

Fresh produce, food trucks, live music, and fudge.  What do all these things have in common?  The Genesee County Farmers Market!  Starting today 9 to 4 and going Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays through October 29th, the Farmers Market will feature live music on some Fridays this season and a Master Gardener and Nutritionist.  The market is at the parking lot at Alva Place and Bank Street.

Genesee County Park and Forest is hosting guided dog walks for you and your 4 legged canine friend.  Each walk is on a Saturday a month apart.  The first is June 4th, next is July 2nd and the last is August 6th and they run from 10 to 11 am.  The walks start at the Interpretive Center and are 5 dollars a dog.  All dogs must be leashed, vaccinated and licensed.

The Buffalo Bills have signed a veteran Wide receiver and former first round draft pick Tavon Austin to the team.  Austin was originally selected with the eighth overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft after his college career at West Virginia. He spent his first five years in the NFL with the Rams.  He has also played for the Cowboys, 49ers, and Jaguars. Last season, Austin hauled in 24 catches for 213 yards and a touchdown with Jacksonville. He also had three carries for 21 yards.

The Kiwanis Club of Batavia Criminal Justice Award is presented to a member or members of the community, law enforcement, or a criminal justice agency serving the citizens of Genesee County whose exceptional career achievements and conscientiousness to citizenship have demonstrated a spirit of selfless public service or demonstrated an act of exceptional valor or heroism.

The 2022 Award Recipients are:
Rosanne DeMare, Community Victim/Services Counselor, Genesee Justice
Rosanne started her career with Genesee Justice in 2006 and has worked with countless victims by supporting and guiding them through their role in the justice process. She is compassionate when speaking to, or on behalf of victims and is determined to ensure that victim’s rights are met with the utmost respect and dignity at all stages of the criminal justice process. The victims Rosanne has assisted wholeheartedly share their appreciation for all she did to help them get through some very trying times.

Rosanne always has the interests of the victims first and foremost and is ready, willing, and able to assist in whatever way necessary. She will calculate large and complex restitution claims or simply be there to comfort a victim in distress. She will supervise and entertain children while their parent or guardian is testifying in court and she will provide assistance to allow victims to travel to court to remain safe from a threat. She will make phone calls, emails, whatever is necessary, to keep a victim apprised of the progress of their case or relieve their anxiety.

Rosanne has a superior work ethic and is often the last one to leave on any given day. Her dedication and professionalism to the mission of the Genesee Justice Victim Advocacy program is a true asset to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and Genesee County. Community Victim/Services Counselor Rosanne DeMare was nominated for this award by Genesee Justice Program Coordinator Diana Prinzi.

Thomas Graham, Justice, Town of Oakfield
Justice Thomas Graham began his law enforcement career on February 17, 1976, with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and retired after 29 ½ years of service. During his tenure, he held the positions of Deputy Sheriff – Jail, Deputy Sheriff – Road Patrol, Dispatcher, and Sergeant. Additionally, he was a Field Training Officer, was the lead for the Buckle Up New York Program and earned a Meritorious Service Award for his exceptional performance over an extended period of time. He played an instrumental role in the operations of the Emergency Services Dispatch Center and was a K-9 handler for several years.

Honorable Graham is currently the Secretary and Treasurer of the Genesee County Magistrates’ and Court Clerks’ Association and is a board member on the Criminal Justice Advisory Council and Genesee County Traffic Safety Board. He is also an instructor for the Rural Police Training Academy at Genesee Community College.

Judge Graham has spent the past 48 years as a volunteer fireman and was the Assistant Chief of the Oakfield Volunteer Fire Department.

It is evident that Judge Thomas Graham is dedicated to the profession of law enforcement and has contributed extensively to the several organizations and boards he has served and currently serves. Genesee County is very fortunate to have such an experienced, dedicated professional serving its citizens. Justice Graham was nominated for this award by the Town of Oakfield Court Clerk Sandy Almeter.

Kevin Forsyth, Investigator, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office
Investigator Forsyth‘s career in law enforcement began in June of 2007, as a Probation Officer with the Genesee County Probation Department, and on July 11, 2015, he was hired as a Deputy Sheriff with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigator Forsyth proved himself a valuable member of the road patrol division and was selected as a Field Training Officer. He was awarded a Meritorious Service Award in 2017, reflecting his consistent high standard of work. Investigator Forsyth’s excellent performance led to his promotion on November 30, 2019, to Investigator with the Criminal Investigation Division. He demonstrates a consistent work ethic, is knowledgeable of the law, and is a valued, reliable member of the Investigation Division. Investigator Forsyth presently serves the community spending countless hours investigating crimes, which through his effort and commitment, often lead to an arrest and the perpetrator brought to justice. Along with his investigative responsibilities, Investigator Forsyth is also an instructor of Defensive Tactics, Taser, Aerosol Subject Restraint, Stinger Spike System and is trained as a Crisis Intervention Officer. Investigator Forsyth is also a veteran of the United States Army.

Investigator Kevin Forsyth was nominated for this award by the Chief of Criminal Investigations Joseph Graff.

Eric Hill, Youth Detective, City of Batavia Police Department
Youth Detective Hill was hired by the City of Batavia Police Department in 2005, and has served many roles within the department during his 17 years of service to the community. He has served as a road patrol officer, Field Training Officer, one of the Department’s Public Information Officers (PIO), has been a member of the Department’s Emergency Response Team, and is active in community events such as Shop with a Cop.

Youth Detective Hill was promoted to the position of Youth Detective in 2015, and has since worked alongside multiple partner agencies to ensure that the City’s youth are served with professionalism and empathy, always emphasizing a restorative justice model. Youth Detective Hill has worked with countless parents, teachers, and officers to assist them in dealing with difficult situations, all while ensuring that the best interest of the youth is met. Eric has also worn the unofficial “hat” of being the Department’s IT support. He has worked alongside County IT, City officials, IT vendors and department members to ensure that the technology used to assist officers and citizens is kept operational. Eric’s technical background and skills have proven to be an indispensable resource to the staff.

Throughout his career, Youth Detective Hill handles all of his duties with professionalism and pride for the uniform he wears and the department he represents. Youth Detective Hill was nominated for this award by City of Batavia Police Detective Sergeant Matt Lutey.

Zachary Hursh

Alexander Scheg

Jason Schmeer

A Rochester man who led police on a high-speed chase through two counties in a stolen car has been indicted by a Genesee County grand jury. 37-year-old Zachary Hursh is charged with third-degree criminal possession of stolen property, obstruction of governmental administration, third-degree unlawful fleeing a police officer and reckless driving. The 2017 Honda Civic that he was driving was reported stolen from the city of Rochester and observed at Horseshoe Lake and Sanders roads in Stafford the night of December 1. Attempts to pull the vehicle over were unsuccessful, even the use of spike strips failed. Hursh eventually lost control and crashed the car. He and one of his passengers (27-year-old Alexander Scheg of Byron), attempted to flee but were soon found; a third passenger, 41-year-old Jason Schmeer was immediately taken into custody.

Jarrett Coniglio

A Basom man who made a plea deal as long as he stayed out of trouble, was soon back in court charged with felonies. The initial charges against 29-year-old Jarrett Coniglio included DWI, forgery and criminal impersonation – he initially provided the name of his brother when police pulled him over. With the deal that he made, he would have served less time in prison but then, unprovoked, assaulted a neighbor. At sentencing, he said he wanted to be a better person, take care of his mother who apparently is having health problems, and also take care of his kids; something he has not done in the past and is court-ordered to stay away from the mother of his children . The judge did not believe Coniglio was the family man he said he was; he was sentenced to five years in prison for assault and up to four years for the DWI conviction. He had accepted 2-1/2 years in the plea deal.

Officers from the Genesee County Local Task Force have announced they arrested a Batavia resident for selling cocaine. Members of the Task Force, comprised of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and Batavia Police Department, arrested 69-year-old Julious Murphy of Jerome Place, after an investigation into the transportation and sale of crack cocaine in and around the City of Batavia. Officers said Murphy was taken into custody on a sealed grand jury indictment warrant during a traffic stop. Officers added that He allegedly sold quantities of crack cocaine to an agent of the Genesee County Drug Task Force while in Batavia. Murphy is also known as ‘Fatboy’, and has been charged with Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, both class B-felonies according to New York State Penal Law. The suspect was arraigned in Genesee County Court Tuesday and was released under supervision.

Lynne Johnson

Orleans County officials don’t plan to suspend any of the sales tax on gas, this, from Legislature Chairwoman Lynne Johnson. She noted that the funds are needed to improve bridges, emergency response and communication services, the county will become further burdened with fixable and unfixable problems in the absence of the gas tax. Out of the 62 counties in the state only 25 have suspended the gas tax when the price hits either $2 or $3 a gallon. In the GLOW region, only Livingston is waiving the sales tax – and that’s after $3 a gallon. Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming have not suspended the local share of the tax.

Andrew Cuomo

After an online ad campaign, billboards and television ads touting his innocence and a possible run for governor: Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has not filed paperwork to run and the deadline is now past. If he had wanted to run he would have needed a 45,000 signature petition to run as an independent candidate. Cuomo could still get on the ballot if his campaign had collected those signatures and put his petitions in the mail. Board of Elections spokesperson Jennifer Wilson says, “If that paperwork was to arrive by Thursday, bearing a postmark dated Tuesday or earlier, it would still count.”

Payton Gendron

The man accused of carrying out a mass shooting at a supermarket in Buffalo is expected to be back in court today. Payton Gendron has been indicted by an Erie County grand jury on several charges including domestic terrorism, murder and attempted murder. Prosecutors say that Gendron arrived at a Tops store May 14th and allegedly opened fire, killing 10 people and injuring three others in what officials have called a racially motivated hate crime. Gendron is behind bars without bail.

New data shows the spread of the coronavirus is continuing to slow down across our region. Right now, the 7-day average infection rate is just below 7.9%. Last week, the average infection rate was at 10.5%. Health officials are urging residents to take the proper precautions to protect themselves and others from getting sick such as being vaccinated against the virus and wearing a mask while indoors.

Genesee County is waiving fees for civil service exams. This is an effort to try to get more people interested in employment with Police, Sheriff, Fire, Probation and Dispatch service. Human Resources Director Anita Cleveland noted that since the 20 to 25 dollar exam fee was implemented the number of people signing up to take the exams has fallen. This led her to propose dropping the fees through December 31st a move that will cost the county approximately $3000. After passing the Ways and Means Committee, it goes to the county legislature for the final vote.

A popular fast-food chain is planning to add a fourth location in the Rochester area. According to WHEC, Chick-fil-A wants to build a new restaurant on Route 250 in Penfield that would seat 75 people and have a three-lane drive-thru. The other Chick-fil-A’s are located in Greece, Henrietta and Irondequoit. There’s no word yet on when the Penfield restaurant will open.

Joshua Wilson

A Buffalo man has been sentenced for brutally beating a woman to death inside of her home Tonawanda. Prosecutors say 24-year-old Joshua Wilson attacked 71-year-old Diane Wolfe with a gardening tool at her residence back in May 2020. After killing Wolfe, Wilson left the scene with the victim’s vehicle and several items from her house. He will be spending the next 22 years behind bars after pleading guilty.

The suspected shooter who took the lives of 10 people in a Buffalo TOPs has been officially charged with terrorism and 10 counts of 1st degree murder.  The jury decided Wednesday to charge the 18 year old that the charge of terrorism will be domestic terrorism motivated by hate.  The suspect has plead not guilty.  

Genesee County is waiving fees for civil service exams in a move to try to get more people interested in Police, Sheriff, Fire, Probation and Dispatch service.  Since the 20 to 25 dollar exam fee was implemented the number of people signing up to take the exams has fallen.  This led Human Resources Director Anita Cleveland to propose dropping the fees from June 1st to December 31st.  Not having the fees will cost the county approximately 3000 dollars.  After passing the Ways and Means committee, it goes to the county legislature for the final vote.

Buffalo Police have seized 23 ATVs and dirt bikes since Sunday during a special operation to get the off road vehicles off Buffalo’s roads.  Riders of these vehicles have been known to run lights and stop signs, drive on sidewalks, and ride across public parks en masse causing damage and endangering pedestrians.  Mayor Byron Brown says that “This is not fun and games. This is dangerous.”  Brown also says that the city will continue to offer a cash reward for information leading to the confiscation of these vehicles.

After an online ad campaign, billboards and television ads touting his innocence and a possible run for governor.  Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has not filed paperwork to run and the deadline is now past.  If he had wanted to run he would have needed a 45,000 signature petition to run as an independent candidate.  Cuomo could still get on the ballot if his campaign had collected those signatures and put his petitions in the mail. Board of Elections spokesperson Jennifer Wilson says, “If that paperwork was to arrive by Thursday, bearing a postmark dated Tuesday or earlier, it would still count.”

The Oakfield Alabama Hornets are Section 5 Title Winners after beating Notre Dame in a close fought 8 to 7 game.  The Section C Class 5 title game was played Tuesday.  Bodie Hyde had 2 runs scored for the Hornets.  David Schnaufer knocked out 3 runs in one hit and Brayden Smith scored twice.  

Rochester’s Seneca Park Zoo has announced the name of the Giraffe baby born at the end of April.  Little calf Olmsted was born to Iggy and Parker on April 29th and has been sheltered inside with his mother and father and is now going to be let out for visitors to see.  The name Olmsted is meant to honor Frederick Law Olmstead who designed Seneca Park.  2022 marks 200 years since Frederick Olmstead was born.

Makeen Ithna-Asheri

A Genesee County grand jury has indicted a Batavia man on charges that he failed to help his wife or call for help, while she was overdosing on drugs. 61-year-old Makeen Ithna-Asheri is charged with second-degree manslaughter due to recklessly causing the death of his wife; also included are two counts of endangering the welfare of a child and misdemeanor criminal possession of a controlled substance. Police also said he prevented his children from calling by taking their phone away. The couple both overdosed that night, police said, with Ithna-Asheri recovering before police and medics arrived. Attempts were made to revive his wife but failed. The manslaughter charge is a class C felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Ithna-Asheri is already on lifetime parole because of a 1977 murder conviction in Suffolk County when he was 17 years old.

Attica Correctional Facility

A corrections officer at the Attica Correctional Facility was stabbed with a makeshift knife. This occurred during a brawl in the mess hall last Friday. The officer was coming to the aid of an inmate who was being attacked by several other inmates. Three other inmates then joined in as two officers ordered them to stop. The inmates ignored the officers. More officers arrived to assist and the three inmates who joined the fight fled and attempted to mix in with other inmates as the initial attacker kept trying to stab the inmate. An officer was treated for a stab wound in the left hand. All five inmates involved in the fight were placed in Special Housing Units pending disciplinary charges.

Richard Steen

53-year-old Richard Steen of Lake Street, Le Roy, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon, criminal mischief, and menacing. He was arrested by deputies after they responded to a call of a disturbance in the evening of May 27, at a residence on Cole Road, Le Roy. Steen allegedly displayed a long gun in a threatening manner and allegedly shot a camper causing damage to it. He was arraigned in Town of Le Roy Court and released.

26-year-old Megan Courtney of Batavia has been charged with grand larceny and three counts of filing a false instrument. She is accused of failing to report that the father of her children was residing in her home and earning income; as a result, she allegedly received $6830 in SNAP benefits that she was not eligible to receive.  Similarly, 30-year-old Chandah Sundown of Batavia faces multiple charges, including grand larceny. She is accused of failing to report the father of her children was residing with her and earning income. This resulted in Sundown allegedly receiving $8353 in SNAP benefits she should not have received. She was arraigned in Town of Batavia Court and released on her own recognizance.

38-year-old Thomas Wolcott of Batavia is charged with criminal contempt. He is accused of violating an order of protection. Wolcott was arraigned in City Court and ordered held on $10,000 bail.

After weeks of having to hand over a lot of money to fill up their vehicles, New York drivers are finally getting a little relief at the gas pumps today. That’s because a gas tax holiday that was approved as part of this year’s state budget is now in effect. The suspension of the state’s 16-cents-per gallon tax is going to remain in place through the end of December. According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas in Batavia is $4.85, up two cents from yesterday.

Mayor Byron Brown

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown is calling for the country’s leaders to come up with a solution to put an end to ongoing gun violence. Brown hosted a virtual conference yesterday during which other mayors from around the state joined him. In the last few weeks, there have been shootings in Buffalo and Texas that took the lives of dozens of people. Democrats in Congress are calling for additional gun legislation, but many Republicans believe other methods to prevent mass shootings should be considered including increasing access to mental health care. And the New York State Assembly and Senate are currently reviewing 10 new bills that have come up for approval that have to do with guns and stopping shooters before they can hurt others.

NYS Capitol Building

Governor Hochul and the leaders of the state Senate and Assembly have introduced a package of bills that are aimed at toughening the state’s gun laws. The measures would make threatening mass harm a crime, require information between state, local and federal agencies be shared when guns are used in crimes and require microstamping for new guns. Another bill would raise the minimum age to buy a semi-automatic rifle from 18 to 21-years-old and a license would be needed prior to purchase. Lawmakers are expected to vote on these measures before the legislative session ends tomorrow.

Brittanee Drexel

A coroner in South Carolina says the cause of death of a 17-year-old girl from Chili is undetermined. The coroner said due to the condition of Brittanee Drexel’s remains, strangulation could not be confirmed. Drexel was last seen alive in April 2009 while she was on vacation in Myrtle Beach. Police recently arrested Raymond Moody in connection with this case and charged him with murder, kidnapping and criminal sexual conduct.

Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel is donating 3300 concert tickets to the Genesee County Veterans Service Agency. The concert tickets are good for the June 10th ‘Bruce in the USA’ charity concert, and the 11 concerts in the Rockin’ The Downs series starting on June 17th.

Notre Dame High School

Notre Dame High School Baccalaureate Mass and Graduation will take place on June 5th; they will be celebrating the accomplishments of Seniors. Members of the graduating class of 1972 (50 years ago) will also be honored.

A local Boy Scout leader and employee in the Greece Central School District is in trouble with the law after being accused of a disturbing crime. According to State Police, 51-year-old Sean Glenney allegedly had sexual contact with a 15-year-old boy back in 2015. Glenney met the teen through an explorer program with the North Greece Fire Department. He’s on leave from his job in the school district but officials say the inappropriate contact didn’t happen on school grounds. Glenney is due back in court at a later date.

BB Gun

A Buffalo Public Schools seventh-grade student is facing punishment after allegedly bringing a BB gun to school with him. Police responded to Olmstead School 156 yesterday after getting a report of a student with a gun and the weapon was later found in a bathroom. The school was put on lockdown during the incident, but it was later lifted, and classes resumed. The district said the student will be disciplined using the guidelines laid out in the Code of Conduct. Counseling will also be made available to other students.

RG and E and NYSEG customers could see a hike in their bills if the Public Service Commission approves it.  Both organizations said an increase of 10 to 18 dollars per billing cycle is needed to cover the cost of replacing aging infrastructure to prevent outages, and to make the transition to clean energy.  Another issue customers have been dealing with is extremely high bills, sometimes 5 to 10 times higher than normal, which RG and E says are because they don’t have enough meter readers and have been estimating people’s bill and then sending one big one with the missing kilowatts charged once they get a read.  Most customers say that the bills are fantastically over anything that may have been missed.  RG&E and NYSEG are asking the public service commission to approve a proposal to increase rates by 13 to 22 percent starting in May of 2023.

10 new bills have come up for approval in the NY State Assembly and Senate that have to do with guns and stopping shooters before they can hurt others.  Among the bills is one requiring a person to have a license to purchase a semi automatic rifle.  Another restricts body armor to law enforcement professionals.  On the side of stopping shooters who have mental health issues a bill that would allow health care practitioners to file Extreme Risk Protection Orders if they examine someone and think they could be a risk to themselves or others.  This would also restrict that person from purchasing a firearm or getting a license.  Social media also made it into the bills with one creating a task force to study how social media could lead to shootings and another making social media platforms create and maintain clear rules about hateful conduct or threats. Threats would become a criminal offense under the proposed bill.   

Anyone driving in Buffalo has probably heard them long before they saw them.  Dirt Bikes and ATVs driving down city roads late at night, blowing through red lights and swerving around traffic.  Buffalo Common Council Member Mitch Nowakowski says they have become “brazen and inconsiderate of residents in the
City of Buffalo.”  Riders use social media to form massive groups to meet up.  The Buffalo Police Department has a safety policy not to chase ATVs or dirt bikes because chases can be dangerous for civilians caught in the middle between fleeing riders and police.  Police are able to seize bikes and atvs if they find them sitting still though.  Common Council Members said the key to ending the illegal use of dirt bikes and ATVs is community members coming forward with information. They said community members can report on illegal dirt bike or ATV activity using the police non-emergency number or by calling 311.  In Rochester a task force has taken 12 ATVs, 21 Dirt Bikes, 4 mini bikes and 1 golf cart off the road.

Batavia Downs donates concert tickets to veterans.  The Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel donated 3300 tickets to the Genesee County Veterans Service Agency.  Ricky Palermo, president and CEO of the Palermo Foundation, works with many veterans agencies.  The concert tickets are good for the 11 concerts in the Rockin The Downs series starting on June 17th and the June 10th Bruce in the USA charity concert.  

The Buffalo Sabres have signed another 2021 NHL Draft pick, inking forward Isak Rosen to a three-year entry-level contract on Tuesday.  Rosen, the 14th overall pick in the 2021 Draft, comes to the Sabres from Sweden in which he played for Leksands’ senior team during the 2021-22 season. In 28 games with the team, he recorded two goals and two assists.  Rosen played in the World championships in 2021 and is in the Junior World Championship this year. 

United States and Canadian regulators are investigating a hepatitis outbreak that may be linked to fresh organic strawberries. In a joint weekend statement, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Public Health Agency of Canada say at least 27 illnesses have occurred after people ate FreshKampo and H-E-B brand strawberries. The strawberries were purchased between March 5 and April 25 at various retailers, including Aldi, Kroger and Wal-Mart. Of course, the strawberries are past their shelf life, but consumers who froze them to eat later should throw them away. There have been 17 illnesses and 12 hospitalizations reported. Ten cases and four hospitalizations have been reported in Canada. In a statement on its website, Texas grocer H-E-B said it has not received or sold organic strawberries from the supplier in question since April 16. H-E-B said anyone who still has the strawberries should throw them away or return them to the store where they were purchased. Hepatitis A is a virus that can cause liver disease and, in rare cases, liver failure and death. Illness usually occurs within 15 to 50 days after eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and jaundice. Consumers who ate the potentially affected berries in the last two weeks and have not been vaccinated against hepatitis A should immediately consult with a physician, the FDA said.

The Genesee County Economic Development Center Board of Directors will be considering the O-AT-KA Milk Products proposal this Thursday night when they meet: OATKA wants to expand their facility by 3,200 square feet. The $3.1 million proposed investment would be home to two new 18,000-gallon tanks intended to increase capacities of cream-based liquor beverages and future expansions. The project proposal includes a request for a little over $208,000 ($208,109) in property, sales and mortgage tax assistance. Upon completion, it’s estimated to generate $3.5 million in local economic benefits over 10 years, equal to $27 in economic activity for every $1 of public investment.

After dealing with weeks of increases, Western New York drivers are finally seeing steady prices at the gas pumps. According to Triple A, in our region, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $4.88. That’s the same price as last week but is 60 cents higher than this time last month and a $1.85 more than a year ago. The state average is $4.93 a gallon while nationally it’s $4.62. In Batavia, the average price per gallon is $4.83, down a penny from yesterday. Governor Hochul has pledged that the state tax will be suspended starting tomorrow, saving upwards of 16 cents per gallon. Several counties including Erie and Monroe are also dropping their gas tax on top of the state tax for another 12 to 15 cents off. The gas tax relief will be in place until September.

The deadline to register to vote in the upcoming June primary is just a few days away. Folks have until this Friday, June 3rd to register through the state DMV website or in-person at their local Board of Elections office. Anyone who wants to mail in his or her application must make sure it’s postmarked no later than June 3rd and received by the Board of Elections no later than June 8th. The primary is scheduled for Tuesday, June 28th.

NYS Capitol Building

Members of the state Senate and Assembly are back at the Capitol in Albany today as this year’s legislative session winds down. Lawmakers are reportedly planning to address several key issues including guaranteeing access to abortion services and strengthening the state’s gun control laws. They might also vote on a measure that would switch local elections for certain offices outside of New York City to even-numbered years. The legislative session is currently scheduled to end on Thursday.

Mine, all mine...

The Mega Millions jackpot hasn’t been won in a few weeks, and players of the game are hoping to claim a huge prize tonight. The jackpot for this evening’s drawing has grown to at least $170,000,000. The price of a ticket for Mega Millions is $2.00; tonight’s drawing will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

Jefferson Avenue Tops

FeedMore WNY has announced it’s going to be holding additional food distribution events for Buffalo residents who have been affected by the ongoing closure of the Jefferson Avenue Tops. One of those distributions will take place on Wednesdays from 3:00pm until 7:00pm at the Resource Council of WNY. Food is also going to be distributed on Fridays from 3 until 7pm at the Johnnie B. Wiley Pavilion. People can also have meals delivered by calling 716-822-2002.