Local News

Western NY is under yet another heat advisory until 7pm today.  According to the National Weather service the high heat and humidity will make it feel like it is in the upper 90s today.  This August is now the 2^nd hottest on record in Western NY with an average temperature of 75.3 degrees.  The hottest on record was in 2016 with the average being 75.6 with the 3rd, 4th, and 5^th hottest being in the 1940s and 50s.

In her first week in office Governor Kathy Hochul officially acknowledged that Cuomo had been downplaying the number of COVID deaths in New York by about 12 thousand. Sharp eyed individuals who followed the CDC’s official numbers noticed in the summer of 2020 that the numbers being quoted by Cuomo in his daily updates and press releases were off from the total being reported by the CDC and this gap just kept getting bigger and bigger.  In its first daily update on the outbreak Tuesday evening, Hochul’s office reported that nearly 55,400 people have died of the coronavirus in New York based on death certificate data submitted to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That’s up from about 43,400 that Cuomo reported to the public as of Monday, his last day in office.  The official reason for the difference was that New York only reported deaths that were laboratory certified and did not count any that were not COVID tested before death.

Custom benches are being auctioned off to benefit the Autism Nature Trail in Letchworth State Park.  Officials say the Austim Nature Trail at Letchworth is close to completion but you still have a chance to be part of its legacy.  There are 6 benches being auctioned which will become part of the trail.  Bidding starts at 5 thousand dollars per bench and the auction will take place online.  They were created by artist Rick Pratt and his family.  To see the benches and bid on them follow the link at wbtai.com.  https://e.givesmart.com/events/n4y/

Bills wide receiver and kick returner Isaiah McKenzie has been fined over 14 thousand dollars for not wearing a mask.  From the letter he received from the NFL “On August 25, 2021, at approximately 2:15 p.m. while walking through the indoor fieldhouse and into the training room, you failed to wear a mask. Then at approximately 4:35 p.m. on August 25, for several minutes, you again failed to wear a mask in the meeting area of the weight room while gathered near other players after the offensive meeting.”  Cole Beasley replied to McKenzies tweet about the fine saying “don’t worry they got me too. But I was wearing a mask when I was in close contact with fully vaxxed trainer who tested positive and still got sent home. So what’s the point of the mask anyways?”  Beasley and 3 others are quarantining at the moment.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s office would like to thank the public for their assistance in locating Madalyn Muntz who went missing yesterday and has since been located.  Several people called in to the helpline which aided in deputies being able to find her and check on her welfare.

The Genesee County Legislature has voted to approve a new sales tax allocation agreement with the City of Batavia – a move that clears the way for the annual distribution of $10 million in sales tax revenue to Genesee County towns and villages. The resolution passed by a unanimous vote. In other action, the legislature voted in favor of contracting with a Williamsville consulting firm for assistance in how to spend money received from the American Rescue Plan Act. The contract is for up to $10,000 for the two years of the contract, which includes the option of three, one-year renewals.

A source tells an Albany TV station that state Sen. Brian Benjamin will be the new Lieutenant Governor of New York. Someone familiar with the administration’s internal discussions spoke with The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because Hochul had yet to announce her decision publicly. She is expected to do so this week. If he accepts the job, the 44-year-old Benjamin would become the state’s second Black lieutenant governor. The Democrat, whose district includes most of central Harlem, has focused his legislative career on criminal justice reform and affordable housing.

Delivering another blow to what’s left of former Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s legacy, New York’s new governor acknowledged on her first day in office that the state has had nearly 12,000 more deaths from COVID-19 than Cuomo told the public. In its first daily update on the outbreak Tuesday evening, Hochul’s office reported that nearly 55,400 people have died of the coronavirus in New York based on death certificate data submitted to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. That’s up from about 43,400 that Cuomo reported to the public as of Monday, his last day in office.

Lisa Casey, confidential secretary for the City of Batavia since January 2015, has been hired as clerk of the legislature for Genesee County. She calls the move a career advancement. A Batavia resident, Casey was an executive administrator for Conifer Realty in Rochester for seven years. Her first day with the county is Sept. 7^th.

A knife fight led to the arrest of 2 men in the town on Albion.  53-year-old Angel Gonzalez-Rodriguez and 43-year-old Jeffrey VanEpps allegedly got into a fight over a cell phone, Rodriguez slashed VanEpps on the forehead and VanEpps stabbed Rodriguez in the leg.  Both have been arrested and charged with Assault, Criminal Possession of a weapon, and menacing.

The National Weather Service is continuing a heat advisory for today. Heat index values could reach 100 this afternoon. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur.

From Buffalo’s Channel 4… President Joe Biden appointed Williamsville native and SUNY Geneseo graduate Elizabeth “Liz” Allen as “Assistant Secretary of State for Global Public Affairs” at the United States Department of State Wednesday. Allen, a Williamsville South graduate, previously worked in the Obama-Biden White House for eight years in communications.

A knife fight lead to the arrest of 2 men in the town on Albion.  53 year old Angel Gonzalez-Rodriguez and 43 year old Jeffrey VanEpps allegedly got into a fight over a cell phone, Rodriguez slashed VanEpps on the forehead and VanEpps stabbed Rodriguez in the leg.  Both have been arrested and charged with Assault, Criminal Possession of a weapon, and menacing.

The Buffalo Bills announced Tuesday that they are letting 5 players go, Tyrell Adams, Tyler Gauthier, Bug Howard, Lance Lenoir and Tariq Thompson.  4 players are on the COVID reserve list Cole Beasley, Star Lotulelei, Gabriel Davis, and Vernon Butler although all 4 tested positive then negative but have to stay on the reserve list for 5 days.  Their next game is against the Packers Saturday August 28^th.

A heat advisory remains in effect until 7 o’clock tonight.
The National Weather Service is forecasting heat index values today as high as 100-degrees.
The advisory extends to all of Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming counties.
Temperatures near or above 90 coupled with high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur.
The Weather Service advises you to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

Governor Hochul has already made an announcement that will affect a lot of New Yorkers in the next few weeks. Yesterday, the governor said she’s directing the state Department of Health to make mask wearing mandatory in all schools. Hochul says the goal is to prevent an outbreak of the virus in school buildings that could lead to students and staff getting sick. The governor also suggests districts create a COVID-19 vaccination policy that would give employees the option of not getting immunized but only if they agree to weekly testing for coronavirus.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is asking the [public’s help in locating a woman last seen in Byron.
The missing woman is Madalyn Muntz. She was last seen on Monday.
The sheriff’s office notes that Madalyn is NOT in any trouble but they are trying to find her to be sure she is OK.
If you see her or know of her whereabouts, call 9-1-1.

PHOTO: Madalyn Muntz

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has lost his Emmy award for his 2020 daily COVID-19 briefings. The EMMY Academy wrote in a statement:
“In light of the New York Attorney General’s report, and Andrew Cuomo’s subsequent resignation as Governor, it is rescinding his special 2020 International Emmy Award.”

New York’s new Governor Kathy Hochul held a ceremonial swearing-in event in Albany after she officially became the state’s first female governor. She ascended to the role after former governor Andrew Cuomo resigned following the state attorney general’s report released earlier this month that found evidence, he had sexually harassed 11 women while in office. Following the brief ceremony, Hochul says her administration will focus on helping New Yorkers gain confidence in their elected officials.

City of Batavia Police Department members raised $1,500.00 among their ranks to support the Challenger Sports program run by the Batavia Y and supported by the Arc of Genesee Orleans.  Challenger sports benefits children with intellectual, developmental or physical disabilities and has offered them the opportunity to swim, bowl, dance, play baseball, soccer, basketball and tennis. It was Police Sergeant Lawrence’s idea to target their fundraising proceeds to Challenger Baseball and said this is a great cause to encourage officers get involved in the community.

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo has lost his Emmy award for his 2020 daily COVID-19 daily briefings after a firestorm of sexual harassment allegations and his subsequent resignation. The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences released a statement Tuesday saying that in light of the New York Attorney General’s report, and Andrew Cuomo’s subsequent resignation as Governor, it is rescinding his special 2020 International Emmy® Award. His name and any reference to his receiving the award will be eliminated from International Academy materials going forward.

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Genesee and Orleans counties. Heat index values could reach 100 degrees. Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses to occur.

Hours after being sworn in as New York’s 57th governor, Kathy Hochul said she will require COVID vaccinations for all school staff, or weekly testing. Gov. Hochul’s vaccine mandate comes just two weeks before the start of school, and she promised more COVID policies are coming. The governor’s announcement comes as school leaders are finalizing reopening plans for the start of the school year.

New York’s COVID positivity rate is now 3.60%. 86 more people have been hospitalized and nine others have been admitted to the ICU. The state reports 11 additional deaths, bringing the statewide COVID death toll to more than 43,000 people. The positivity rate in the Finger Lakes region has slowly declined over the past three days. The WNY rate has been increasing.

There will be a heat advisory in effect for Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties starting tomorrow at 11am and running till 7pm.  Heat indexes as high as 100 are expected with temperatures in the 90s and high humidity.  Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.

As Cuomo left office Monday he used his last speech to call on business to require their employees to get vaccinated or be fired.  President Biden has said the same thing.  Local Grocery Chains have said that while they encourage their employees to get the shot, they won’t require it.  Tops, Wegmans, and Target have all said they are not requiring employees to be vaccinated.

Starting tomorrow, August 25^th, the UMMC is instituting new anti covid protocols.  There will be no visitation to COVID positive patients, the emergency room, or cancer infusion center patients with exceptions for pediatric patients, patients with intellectual or developmental disabilities and those with end of life care or dementia.  Check out the visitation hours and specifics at our news partner the Batavian.

Darien Lake Amusement Park has announced its plans for the winter holiday season and they involve lots of lights.  The Magic of Lights, a 1.25 mile drive through holiday light display extravaganza will start November 18^th and run through January 2^nd.  They plan to put up nearly 1 million lights.  This will be free to all members and season pass holders and others can purchase tickets which will be available this fall.

How much would you pay for a raspberry pie?  10 dollars?  15 dollars?  How about 4000 dollars?  A 6 year old girl who sold a pie at a 4-h auction at the Wyoming County Fair got a big surprise when bidding went from 25 dollars up by hundred dollar increments to a whopping 4 thousand for the fruit confection.  Jane Hull, who is in her first year at 4-H, tells reporters that she was there for the animals and also showed a rabbit which won 2^nd place.  The winning bidder, Bobby Burt, is her grandfather.  The money raised by the Auction goes to the 4-H Family Fund and several scholarships and workshop funds.

PHOTO: WNY Native Kathy Hochul takes the oath of office as Governor of the State of New York. Husband William Hochul at her side. Oath administered by Chief Judge Janet DiFiore

It’s a historic day in New York as Governor Kathy Hochul has become the first female to hold that position in the Empire State.
In brief remarks following her ceremonial swearing in Hochul was asked what is her number one priority as she takes office…

Hochul took a few questions from reporters before a scheduled meeting with leaders of the State Legislature.

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is in the doghouse with dog lovers. There are reports that when he moved out of the Governor’s Mansion in Albany last week and into his sister’s house in Westchester, New York he abandoned his dog. The Albany Times Union said Cuomo asked staffers to take Captain, a Siberian Husky-Malamute mix, that he adopted in 2018. One worker reportedly volunteered but Captain has a history of being nippy and was returned a few days later and seen wandering the grounds. Cuomo is tweeting a denial, suggesting their separation is temporary, but the New York State Animal Protection Federation is outraged and is offering to find Captain a trainer and a loving, forever home.

Notre Dame High School of Batavia is recommending that its students wear masks, but they will not be required.
In a letter to parents Notre Dame principal Wade Bianco said that students, faculty and staff will not be required to wear masks as a mean of preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Bianco quickly added, however, that the school’s guidelines are subject to change.
Notre Dame will continue maintain social distancing – desks three feet apart, six feet apart where possible. Cafeteria seating will also be six feet apart.

Batavia’s boys and girls in blue had over a $1,500 donation to Challenger Sports.
The program is run by the YMCA and supported by the Arc of Genesee Orleans.
The Police department raised the money through personal contributions from several officers.

Kathy Hochul made history today as the first woman to serve as New York governor after now-former Gov. Andrew Cuomo officially stepped down at midnight. Hochul, a 62-year-old Democrat, was sworn in as the state’s 57th governor during a private ceremony at the state Capitol. A Buffalo resident, Hochul has been New York’s lieutenant governor since 2015. Governor Cuomo says he has always tried his best to deliver for the people of New York.

The management of Batavia Downs and the Western New York Harness Horsemen’s Association has announced that starting Wednesday (Sept. 1) purses for all races held at the track will be increased by 10%. The increase is due to the recent success in business on the gaming floor and also from an increase in the live racing handle at the track. Reflective of the new structure, the bottom purse at the Downs will be raised from $3,800 to $4,200 and the top purse will jump from $11,200 to $12,300.

Due to COVID cases within the Genesee County Jail, Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr. is suspending all inmate visitations effective immediately until further notice. This is a precautionary measure to prevent the risk of exposure to the coronavirus (COVID-19) to inmates’ families and employees.  The Genesee County Health Department said there are currently three cases of COVID-19 at the jail.

Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) introduced a resolution expressing the need to safely evacuate American citizens and allies from Afghanistan. In a statement, Jacobs said the President has failed the American people and left our citizens and our allies trapped behind enemy lines without any plan to rescue them and ensure they are safely evacuated. Jacobs’ resolution expresses the need for every American citizen and ally to be safely evacuated from Afghanistan and calls upon the President to provide a clear plan to ensure this happens. In addition, the resolution highlights the dire conditions on the ground in Afghanistan with reports of beatings, executions, and growing security concerns.

Clean up from last week’s deadly and devastating floods continues across the Twin Tiers, with Woodhull, New York bearing the brunt of the damage. A mother, 31-year-old Klarissa Bivin’s died during the recent flooding in Steuben County. According to her obituary, Bivin’s had a “mother’s heart” and was devoted to her son Logan. She enjoyed cooking and baking with her family. As of Monday, this was the only confirmed fatality in the Twin Tiers as a result of the flash flooding.

Gas prices are down slightly around the country and may drop further according to AAA Western and Central New York, as children nationwide return to school. Nationally, the average price for gas dropped three cents over the last week to $3.16 per gallon. But New York state’s average did not change, staying at $3.22 per gallon.

Governor Cuomo today is spending his last few hours in a job that he’s held since January 2011. The governor is ending his term at midnight tonight, clearing the way for current Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul to become the state’s 57th governor just moments later.
Earlier this month, a report from State Attorney General Letitia James accused the governor of sexually harassing several women. Cuomo has repeatedly denied those claims, but says he thinks it’s in the best interests of everyone if he leaves office.

From the Bad Boys, Bad Girls report:

• 38-year-old Michael Kaney of Batavia: he was arrested in Alexander and charged with aggravated DWI with a BAC above .18-percent.
• 50-year-old Tammy Kozub of Akron: she was arrested by state troopers for felony possession of a controlled substance and introducing contraband to a prison. Tammy was collared at a jail in Albion.
• 30-year-old Jeremiah Williams of Oak Street in Batavia is collared at the Super 8 motel. He was wanted on multiple warrants including failure to verify his address as a registered sex offender.

Batavia drivers are seeing a slight drop in gasoline prices.
According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular is $3.21 two cents below last week’s average.

A man is looking to make history by becoming the first person with a disability to paddle board from the United States into Canada. Mike Shoreman started his expected 85-mile, multiple day journey from Rochester to Toronto yesterday. In 2018, Shoreman was diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome which is a side effect of shingles. He’s using the journey to raise awareness about the importance of helping people who are struggling with mental health issues, particularly children and young adults.

Batavia Police responded to the Super 8 Motel in an attempt to locate 30-year-old Jeremiah Williams of Oak Street in Batavia on multiple warrants. He was located and taken into custody on a Batavia City Court Warrant for failing to verify his address as a registered sex offender.

Although many states are experiencing a drop in unemployment rates, New York is having a harder time bouncing back from the effect the pandemic has had on employment. According to the personal-finance website WalletHub, the U.S. unemployment rate currently sits at 5.4%, a vast improvement from the nearly historic high of 14.8% in April 2020. New York currently has a rate of 7.6%.

Four people were transported to Strong Memorial Hospital early Sunday after a one-car rollover accident on Assemblyman R Stephen Hawley Drive in the Town of Batavia. Entrapment was reported in the initial call. Mercy Flight transported one patient to Strong. State Police are conducting the accident investigation.

During a traffic stop on Alexander Road in Alexander, sheriff’s deputies arrested 38-year-old Michael Kaney of Batavia. He was charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated with a blood alcohol level above .18% and DWI. He was taken into custody after deputies observed his stopped vehicle on the shoulder of State Route 98. He’ll appear in court September 7^th.

* An Erie County woman faces a felony count following an incident at a jail in Albion. State Police arrested 50-year-old Tammy Kozub of Akron. State Police charged with felony criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell and a lesser count of introducing contraband at a prison. Court action is pending.

New York’s COVID positivity rate is now 3.01%. The 7-day statewide average positivity rate is 3.14% Nearly 5,000 new cases have been confirmed. 21 more virus-related deaths have been reported. Health officials say there has also been 275 new hospitalizations.

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo spent his second-to-last day in office projecting an image that he is still in control, and still fully engaged as the state dealt with heavy rain from Tropical Storm Henri. Cuomo, who is set to resign at the end of the day, appeared at a televised briefing Sunday surrounded by top state officials involved in the state’s storm response. Absent from the briefing was Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul, who is set to become governor in the first seconds of Tuesday morning.  Cuomo said “The lieutenant governor has been briefed on all of this and we’re in constant communication.”

Genesee and Orleans Counties report 99 active cases of COVID-19.
Health Director Paul Pettit says of the 99 cases, 11 persons are hospitalized – eight in Genesee County and three in Orleans.
Pettit said of those reported cases none are nursing home residents and they are from across the age spectrum.
The majority of the cases are in individuals who have not been vaccinated.
Per CDC guidance, Pettit said the local health department urges everyone – vaccinated and un-vaccinated – to wear masks indoors in public and at crowed outdoor settings.

LeRoy’s hopes of landing a $500-million cheese processing plan within its borders have been dashed. LeRoy Town Supervisor Jim Farnholz confirms that Great Lakes Cheese will likely build their new facility in Cattaraugus County.
Putting a positive spin on the loss Farnholz said much of the work done to lure Great Lakes to LeRoy will be useful in the next attempt to land a major development.

That 4-and-a-half-foot monitor lizard that has been roaming through the Village of Attica is dead.
Attica police tell us the animal was apparently struck and killed by a car on Main Street.
The lizard escaped from its owner on July 29th.
Police said the lizard slithered out of his cage when a resident was moving out of his apartment.
The animal was venomous but not considered deadly to humans.

File Photo

New York City’s homecoming week of concerts are winding down with a big concert in Central Park tomorrow. Hudson Valley resident, musician Rob Thomas, is thrilled to be participating. Thomas will be performing with Carlos Santa. Other artists include Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon, Jennifer Hudson and LL Cool J.
If you would like to stay closer to home, we have two suggestions for you. Hogs for Paws will be held at Stan’s Harley Davidson until 3pm Saturday. It is a benefit for the Genesee County Animal Shelter and Volunteers for animals. If you miss that one, the Home-to-Home concert series will be held in Elba Town Park on Sunday afternoon starting at 3.p.m.

Genesee County’s representative on the Western Region OTB board says there’s no merit to the lawsuit filed against the corporation by former COO Michael Nolan.
Nolan is seeking $14-million from the owners of Batavia Downs claiming he was improperly terminated from his post last December.
Board member Richard Seibert says there is no basis for Nolan’s lawsuit.

For the first time since 2019, visitors will be filing through the turnstiles today at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse. Last year’s fair was canceled due to COVID-19 and with infections rising again, there will be health and safety rules in place to protect people from the virus.
Masks are going to be required indoors for most people and all tickets must be bought online since they won’t be available at the gates. Admission is three bucks for adults while seniors 65 and over and kids 12 and under get in for free.
The fair runs through Labor Day which is Monday, September 6th.

An Alden company is the apparent low bidder for the $4.3-million reconstruction of Park Road.
Catco Construction submitted the low bid for the project that will reconstruction Park Road from Lewiston Road – Route 63 to Route 98 – Oak Street.
Most of the cost is covered by New York State.

The number one pick in this year’s NHL Draft has reportedly decided against joining the lineup of the Buffalo Sabres this season. Instead, The Buffalo News says Owen Power has chosen to return to the University of Michigan for his sophomore year.

For the second week in a row, the Buffalo Bills will be on the road as they continue to prepare for their upcoming season. The defending AFC East champions will be at Soldier’s Field tomorrow to take on the Chicago Bears. Once again, Bills quarterback Josh Allen will watch from the sidelines while Buffalo is led by former Bears QB Mitch Trubisky. Kickoff for tomorrow’s preseason game is set for 1 p.m.

Catco Construction of Alden is the apparent low bidder to be the general contractor for the $4.3 million Park Road Reconstruction Project. Town of Batavia Engineer Steve Mountain reported a “favorable” bidding process, in which 11 applications were submitted to take the lead role in an extensive rehabilitation of the road from Lewiston Road (Route 63) to Oak Street (Route 98). Funding from New York State will cover most of the cost, except for the $900,000 it will take to replace the water main.

In a statement released Thursday afternoon, Congressman Chris Jacobs said his office is actively helping individuals trapped in Afghanistan. Jacobs said he is working to assist NY-27 constituents and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) applicants who are in harm’s way in Afghanistan. He said if you are a petitioner or a family member of someone trapped or know of someone who is, you’re urged to contact his Geneseo or Clarence offices right away.

Genesee County’s STOP-DWI Coordinator announced that the Sheriff’s Office, City of Batavia Police Department and Village of LeRoy Police Department will participate in a special event to bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving. Law enforcement officers across New York State will take to the roads in an effort to stop impaired driving, prevent injuries and save lives. The statewide STOP-DWI Campaign begins today and will end on September 6th.

According to preliminary figures just released by the New York State Department of Labor, the number of private sector jobs in New York State increased over the month by 43,800 in July 2021. This was the largest net gain in private sector jobs since March 2021.  New York State’s private sector jobs (not seasonally adjusted) increased by 7.0% over the year in July 2021.

The NY state Department of Health (DOH) allowed more than $1.5 billion in improper Medicaid payments over the course of several years due to errors in its billing system and may have exposed patients to unqualified and uncredentialed health care providers, according to three reports just released. For the state fiscal year that ended March 31, 2020, New York’s Medicaid program had approximately 7.3 million recipients and Medicaid claim costs totaled $69.8 billion.

The Taste NY Marketplace will be back at the Great New York State Fair for the 2021 season, bringing a taste of some of the best homegrown and homemade New York maple and dairy products, craft beverages, and more to fairgoers in the Horticulture Building. This year’s vendor Marketplace will showcase nearly 40 food and craft beverages from regions across the state over the 18 days of the Fair, highlighting some of New York’s finest products. The State Fair in Syracuse opens today.

Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced on Thursday that Josh Allen and the majority of what he called the “core” starters won’t play tomorrow in the preseason game with the Bears. On the injury front, McDermott also said that Stefon Diggs will not play and they are hoping they can get him back on the field soon. Diggs has been out for more than a week with a knee injury that has become a concern. Left tackle Dion Dawkins, returning from Covid, will play in the game.

It’s clean-up time in the Southern Tier after heavy rain from Tropical System Fred cause chaos and life-saving evacuations. The Genesee River at Wellsville crested at over 11 feet Thursday at noon. In Allegany County, the worst flooding was south of Wellsville. Over a three-day period, Steuben County received more than 7 inches of rain. Several communities remain under a State of Emergency this morning and officials there said more than 120 homes sustained flood damage as did a school building.

Dozens of people turn out for a public hearing in LeRoy to express their opinions on a new housing development.
The project has been proposed by Eric Biscaro of Batavia. He is planning to build 30 duplex units and space for six single family homes at the end of East Avenue in the Village of LeRoy. The housing is intended for persons over the age of 50.
Most who spoke at the hearing – which at times became heated – are worried about an increase of traffic and potential water runoff from the 20-acre site.
Biscaro said his proposal is good for LeRoy and create housing opportunities for older people.
The Village Board took no final action on the project last night and will continue the hearing at is September 15th meeting.

One name on today’s Bad Boys report: 53-year-old Richard Augugliaro facing a charge of Grand Larceny. Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies say Augugliaro, from Munford, was found in possession of a wallet reported stolen from LeRoy. That wallet contained a debit card allegedly used by the suspect, who was issued a court appearance ticket.

One longtime Wyoming County furniture retailer is buying another. Harding’s Attica Furniture V.P. Luke Harding tells WBTA his family has purchased Mount Morris Furniture. The Mount Morris location closed last Friday for two weeks for renovation. It will re-open on August 27th.

The New York State Department of Health has released new data on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccine. Researchers found that people who aren’t vaccinated are 11 times more likely to be hospitalized if they contract coronavirus. They’re also eight times more likely to be diagnosed with the illness than people who are immunized.

A member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame will be taking to the stage at KeyBank Center in Buffalo later this year. Legendary singer and songwriter James Taylor is performing at the arena on Monday, December 13th. Taylor will be joined by his All-Star band and fellow artist Jackson Browne. Tickets for the show go on sale next Friday.

Over 80 people turned out for a public hearing in LeRoy – most of them opposed to plans to building a housing development for persons over 50.
The developer of the proposed project is Eric Biscaro, the owner of Armor Building Supply in Batavia.
He is proposing a 30-unit -duplex development on a 20-acre site off of East Avenue in the village of Leroy.
Voices were raised in opposition to the development which Biscaro said would be good for LeRoy. Opponents said they were concerned over the potential increase in traffic and water runoff from the development.
The hearing lasted an hour and a half before it was adjourned by Mayor Greg Rogers. He said the hearing would continue at the board’s next meeting in September.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul is hinting that a mask mandate for schools across New York State may be coming when she takes over as governor next week.
For now, the state has left it up to individual school districts to decide on coronavirus-related rules. Hochul takes over as governor next Tuesday

One longtime Wyoming County furniture retailer is buying another. Harding’s Attica Furniture V.P. Luke Harding tells WBTA his family has purchased Mount Morris Furniture. The Mount Morris location closed last Friday for renovation. It will re-open on August 27th.

The New York State Department of Health has released new data on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccine. Researchers found that people who aren’t vaccinated are 11 times more likely to be hospitalized if they contract coronavirus. They’re also eight times more likely to be diagnosed with the illness than people who are immunized. The health department says this data is clear proof of how important it is for people to protect themselves from the virus.

A member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame will be taking to the stage at KeyBank Center in Buffalo later this year. Legendary singer and songwriter James Taylor is performing at the arena on Monday, December 13th. Taylor will be joined by his All-Star band and fellow artist Jackson Browne. Tickets for the show go on sale Friday August 27th

Gov. Andrew Cuomo

Governor Cuomo has officially filed his retirement paperwork.
While the governor is planning to step down next week, his retirement won’t go into effect until September 1st.
That’s because due to a state pension requirement, any retirement application must be on file for at least 15 days before it can actually occur. Cuomo’s pension could be worth around $50,000 a year.

Lawmen are gearing up for Labor Day Holiday traveling. with another “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign
State Troopers and local law enforcement will be increasing patrols to target impaired driving from this Friday through September 6.
There were 378 fatal impaired driving crashes in 2019, compared to 408 fatal impaired crashes in 2020.

The NYS COVID positivity rate is now 3.94%. 91 more people have been admitted to hospitals and seven others have been admitted to intensive care.
18 new deaths from COVID have also been reported in the state.
The Finger Lakes positivity rate – which includes Genesee County – has declined slightly to 4.20%.
For Genesee County alone, its positivity rate stands at 3.6%.

For the first time in the history of the New York State Fair, smoking marijuana will be legal on some fairground property. That’s because earlier this year, Governor Cuomo and lawmakers struck a deal to legalize the drug for adult use. Marijuana can be used wherever tobacco smoking is allowed. The State Fair gets underway Friday and runs through Labor Day.

The NYS COVID positivity rate is now 3.94%. 91 more people have been admitted to hospitals and seven others have been admitted to intensive care. 18 new deaths from COVID have also been reported in the Empire State. The Finger Lakes positivity rate has declined slightly to 4.20% after reaching 4.25% on Sunday.

Reversing course, the New York State Assembly will continue its broad investigation of Gov. Cuomo and issue a report with its findings. This is coming from lawmakers following speaker of the assembly, Carl Heastie announcing on Friday that lawmakers would close their investigation of Cuomo and would no longer move to impeach him, despite finding “credible evidence” regarding allegations made against him. Last week’s announcement prompted major bipartisan backlash over the decision to suspend the inquiry. Both Republican and Democratic legislators say that the assembly has a duty to, at the very least, make the findings of the investigation public. On Monday, Heastie and Charles Lavine the chairman of the judiciary committee leading the investigation, issued a statement saying it will continue.

The lawyer representing Michael Nolan, the former chief operating officer at Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp., is suing the public benefit company for $14.5 million following his client’s termination last December. The 23-page document was filed in U.S. District Court in Buffalo. The suit is asking for Nolan to receive $4.5 million for violating his First Amendment rights, another $4.5 million for breaking the state’s Civil Service Law and an additional $5.5 million for emotional pain and suffering. Nolan, who lived in Elma at the time of his employment, now resides in West Palm Beach, Fla. The lawsuit is requesting a jury trial.

The University of Rochester is continuing its initiative with the Wilmot Cancer Institute to Promote Health. Prevent Cancer through free, virtual classes on cancer and chronic disease prevention. Promote Health. Prevent Cancer., an initiative with UR Medicine’s Center for Community Health & Prevention and Wilmot Cancer Institute, empowers participants to make healthy lifestyle changes. Participants take part in eight free classes, one per week, over Zoom that consist of 40 minutes of nutrition education and 20 minutes of exercise. These lifestyle changes have been shown to lower the risk of certain cancers and other chronic diseases, while increasing overall health. The classes begin next month.

Another statewide STOP-DWI “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign is about to begin. The New York State Police and local law enforcement will be increasing patrols to target impaired driving from Friday through September 6. There were 378 fatal impaired driving crashes in 2019, compared to 408 fatal impaired crashes in 2020, according to preliminary data from the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research, and far more serious injuries as a result of those avoidable crashes.

The New York State Comptroller’s Office says the governor has officially filed for retirement, effective Sept. 1. As the law stands right now – Gov. Cuomo will be eligible to receive a state pension. The comptroller’s office says, as of July 31st, he has a little over 14 and a half years of service credit – which could translate to a payout of about $50,000 dollars a year. Some state lawmakers are trying to enact legislation that would strip the pension of anyone who is convicted of impeachment charges, but it’s not clear how much support that has.

New York’s legalization of recreational marijuana means it will be allowed at the New York State Fair. A Fair spokesperson confirms that anywhere tobacco use is permitted, adult use of marijuana will be permitted. The 18-day New York State Fair begins Friday and ends on Labor Day.

Germayne Session     Sylvania Perez

A Rochester man and woman arrested for allegedly possessing and selling a variety of illegal drugs in and around the City of Batavia.
27-year-old Germayne Session, known on the street as “Case”, and 60-year-old Sylvania Perez both of Carl Street in Rochester are facing multiple felony and misdemeanor drug charges.
Members of the Genesee County Local Drug Enforcement Task Force say the pair trafficked crack and powdered cocaine and a form of Fentanyl called “Grey Death.”
Session was jailed on $10,000 bail while Perez was released under the supervision of Genesee Justice.

New York legislators are doing an about-face on the Cuomo impeachment investigation. After three days of backlash over the announcement that the inquiry would be suspended after Governor Cuomo announced his resignation, the impeachment probe is on again. Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie says the Judiciary Committee will continue to review evidence and issue a final report. But, the New York Times notes that Heastie’s reversal doesn’t mean Cuomo will actually face impeachment since state lawmakers apparently don’t have the authority to impeach a Governor after he’s out of his office.

The Batavia City School District has released some information to parents about the return to class next month.
In a letter to parents, the district says it expects to have students and teachers in school, in-person, full time – similar to how they finished the 2020-21 school year.
The district will have more detailed information soon – specifically related to when students and staff are expected to wear masks.
Officials say While they plan to start the school year in person, they understand that there may be circumstances related to health issues that may warrant a desire for remote learning for certain students and families.

Both Genesee and Orleans Counties have shown an increase in the rate of COVID community transmission. Paul Pettit, Director of the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments said he was not surprised to see the increase. He also reported another COVID-related death involving a Genesee County resident who was under age 65. There are currently no masking mandates that have been issued by either county.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced that all healthcare workers in New York State, including staff at hospitals and long-term care facilities (LTCF), including nursing homes, adult care, and other congregate care settings, will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by Monday, September 27. The State Department of Health will issue orders requiring all facilities to develop and implement a policy mandating employee vaccinations, with limited exceptions for those with religious or medical reasons. Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration was briefed prior to the announcement.

The New York state Assembly Judiciary Committee will release a final report on their impeachment investigation of Gov. Andrew Cuomo, despite saying on Friday they were suspending the probe once the governor stepped down, according Speaker Carl Heastie and Chair Charles Lavine. Monday’s news followed outrage over the weekend in reaction to the committee’s announcement Friday. The committee heads did not give an indication of when the final report would be released.

An accident occurred in the last race at Batavia Downs on Sunday afternoon after pacer Red Roll (Kyle Cummings) went down and Sizzling Summer (Denny Bucceri) and Hardts Or Bettor (Justin Huckabone) ran over him as close quarters prevented them from making a diversionary move. All three drivers were thrown and two of the loose horses continued to run.  After the race, those horses were caught and upon examination, Sizzling Summer suffered multiple lacerations and required stitches and Hardts Or Bettor appeared to be all right. Red Roll had to be euthanized. The drivers were examined on-site and suffered minor bruises and abrasions. None were transported to area hospitals.

The Genesee County Legislature’s Ways & Means Committee has acted on a suggestion by the Pembroke Town Board to increase the amount of sales tax earmarked for distribution to towns and villages by passing a resolution amending the county’s sales tax allocation agreement with the City of Batavia. The committee approved a restated contract with the city – which along with the county is one of the two taxing municipalities in Genesee County. The amended agreement ups the amount of sales tax revenue the county is willing to share with its towns and villages over the next 38 years from $7 million to $8.5 million. This latest legislation, which is subject to final approval by the full legislature at its Aug. 25 meeting, was triggered by the recent opting in of revised water supply agreements with the county by the Village of Corfu and the Town of Pembroke.

Both Genesee and Orleans Counties have increased to a substantial and high levels of community transmission, respectively, according to the CDC COVID Data Tracker. Paul Pettit, Director of the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments said he was not surprised to see the increase. He also reported another COVID-related death involving a Genesee County resident who was under age 65. There are currently no masking mandates that have been issued by either county.

Out of an abundance of caution, Seneca Gaming Corporation announced that masks will be required for everyone attending upcoming indoor shows at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino and Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino. The requirement applies to all guests and staff inside the Center’s regardless of vaccination status. The resorts will host their first live entertainment performances in more than a year, when Ron White performs in the Seneca Niagara Events Center on August 21 and John Fogerty takes the stage inside the Seneca Allegany Events Center on August 28. The masking requirement will be in effect for the Events Centers only.

A Niagara County man should have done a better disguising his suspected dope at the Darien Lake Luke Bryan concert.
Deputies say they spotted 32-year-old Bryan Lewis Fitts of Gasport with baggies of drugs hanging out of his socks.
Lawmen said the number of suspected drugs was enough to lead them to believe Fitts intended to sell the alleged drugs at the concert.
He was charged with criminal possession of narcotics with intent to sell, arraigned in Town of Pembroke Court and released.

An accident on the track at Batavia Downs involved three horses and their drivers. Unfortunately, one of the horses involved had to be put down.
The Downs says the accident occurred in the last race yesterday afternoon.
A Pacer named Red Roll went down at the 5/8’s pole. Two other paces then ran over him.
The drivers escaped serious injury. Two of the horses were treated but Red Roll had to be euthanized.

A shooting in Albion over the weekend. It happened on Saturday afternoon, lawmen found a 23-year-old man lying on the sidewalk at South Main and Beaver Street in Albion with gunshot wound to right leg. He was taken to the hospital and later released. The incident remains under investigation. Police are calling it an isolated incident and there is no danger to the public.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul says she supports the decision of Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie to suspend the impeachment investigation into Governor Cuomo.
Hochul said she defers to the leadership of the Assembly on this issue but promised there won’t be any controversies in her administration once it begins August 24th. Heastie said Friday the investigation is stopping despite a report from state Attorney General Letitia James saying the governor sexually harassed women. Cuomo has denied those claims repeatedly and said he’s stepping down because it’s in the best interests of everyone.

A survey by Triple-A shows gasoline prices in Batavia about three cents a gallon higher than the Western New York Average.
The average price of a gallon of regular in Batavia is about two-cents higher than last week.

It is a sad part of the sport. An accident on the track at Batavia Downs involved three horses and their drivers. Unfortunately, one of the horses involved had to be put down.
The Downs says the accident occurred in the last race yesterday afternoon.
A Pacer named Red Roll went down at the 5/8’s pole. Two other paces then ran over him.
The drivers escaped serious injury. Two of the horses were treated but Red Roll had to be euthanized.

A shooting in Albion over the weekend. It happened on Saturday afternoon, lawmen found a 23-year-old man lying on the sidewalk at South Main and Beaver Street in Albion with gunshot wound to right leg. He was taken to the hospital and later released. The incident remains under investigation. Police are calling it an isolated incident and there is no danger to the public.

A Batavia man who crashed his car into a house in Lockport last week has died.
63-year-old John Kindig succumbed to his injuries on Saturday.
Deputies say Kindig crashed into a home on Chestnut Hill Road in Lockport.
Three people in the house at the time were not hurt but the house was declared a total loss.

The owners of the Buffalo Bills say they’re willing to share the cost of a new stadium with taxpayers. Pegula Sports and Entertainment officials say the idea of renovating Highmark Stadium isn’t realistic and they want a new facility to be built across from it in Orchard Park. The price tag for the new stadium is projected to be about $1.4-billion.

A survey by Triple-A shows gasoline prices in Batavia about three cents a gallon higher than the Western New York Average.
The average price of a gallon of regular in Batavia is about two-cents higher than last week.

Genesee County Deputies say they arrested a Gasport man for alleged drug crimes as he was being ejected from the Luke Bryan concert in Darien. 32-year-old Bryan Fitts was charged with two counts each of criminal sale and possession of a controlled substance with an intent to sell. Deputies said the drugs were located by the baggies hanging out of his socks. He was arraigned in Town of Pembroke Court and will appear in Town of Darien Court on August 24^th.

New York State Police are continuing to investigate the rollover crash of a tour Bus on the Thruway west of Syracuse. More than 50 passengers were injured. 25 people were transported to Upstate Hospital after the crash. Another 27 people were taken to Auburn Community Hospital. Several other passengers were taken to Crouse Hospital. Troopers said injuries range from minor to serious. The bus departed Poughkeepsie and was headed to Niagara Falls. The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

An Orleans County man faces several counts following a domestic dispute in the Town of Gaines. 50-year-old Demetrius Spinks of Gaines was charged by Troopers with felony first-degree criminal contempt involving a weapon, criminal obstruction of breathing and second-degree menacing with a weapon. Court action is pending.

During a traffic stop in Pembroke, State Police arrested 49-year-old Patrick Reiner of Corfu. He was charged with felony and misdemeanor driving while intoxicated. He’ll answer the charges in court at a later date.

Albion Police are investigating a shooting that happened Saturday. Investigators say they responded to the area of South Main Street and Beaver Street. At the scene, they say they found a 23-year-old man laying on a sidewalk with a gunshot wound to the right leg. He was taken to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries, and was later released. The investigation is ongoing, however police say they believe it was an isolated incident and that there is no danger to the public.

The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office reports that 63-year-old John Kindig of Batavia, has succumbed to injuries he sustained in a single-vehicle accident last week in Lockport. Kindig’s car struck a residence with three people inside the home.  None of the residents were injured but a deputy did need to extricate one person from a bedroom.

After responding to a domestic dispute call, deputies arrested 33-year-old John Hobbs of Clinton Street in Batavia. He was charged with menacing for allegedly threatening a female victim. Arraigned in town court, he was released on his own recognizance. Hobbs is due back in Batavia town court on September 21^st.

Cuomo is not getting impeached if he resigns as governor of New York.  The New York Legislature speaker, Carl Heastie says that the New York Constitution does not allow them to continue the impeachment investigation into Andrew Cuomo after he leaves office.  The evidence gathered during the committee’s investigation will be turned over to relevant authorities, Heastie said.  The investigation encompassed the sexual harassment allegations against Cuomo, the mishandling of COVID patients that lead to the deaths of thousands of elderly New Yorkers in Nursing Homes and the subsequent coverup of the numbers of dead, and the use of government resources to create Cuomo’s memoirs.  Governor Cuomo is set to step down the 24^th.

The New York Supreme Court has ruled to block part of the Eviction Moratorium in New York State.  Landlords can now contest a tenants claim of hardship.  Previously all a tenant had to do to avoid being evicted was fill out the form claiming a hardship and that would block the eviction process.  Now they can still fill out the form but it doesn’t automatically cancel the eviction.  Landlords still have to go through the process of giving 5 day notice, then 14 day notice, then taking the tenants to court.  Tenant advocates say the moratorium is needed to stop a wave of homelessness because of COVID shutdowns while Landlords are saying there will be a wave of foreclosures if they can’t get rent money or evict non-paying tenants.

Go Health and Pampers brand Diapers are partnering up to help dads find a place to change babies in store restrooms.  A nationwide survey found that 9 out of 10 dads have gone into a public restroom unable to find a changing table. As a result, Pampers created the “Love the Change” campaign to provide changing tables to businesses and not-for-profits across the United States to install in men’s  restrooms. Pampers has already donated 3,557 changing tables, but they  are pledging to donate 1,000 more by the end of 2021.  If you are a business or non-profit owner you can apply to get a free changing table for your men’s restroom by calling the Genesee County Health Department at 5853442580 extension 5578.

The Office For the Aging is offering free handyman services to seniors who need to make improvements to their homes.  The services include installing grab bars and railings, minor plumbing, window and door repair, smoke detector and Carbon Monoxide detector installation, and other non-emergency repairs.  No charge for labor for residents 60+. Some material costs may apply. Donations towards labor costs are gratefully accepted.  Call 585 815 7979 for details.

Friday night, Seneca Park Zoo hosted another summer ZooBrew.  The 21-and-over happy hour event has live music, animal experiences, and cash beer and wine bars.  The zoo is hosting another September 10 at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $8 in advance and $10 at the door.  A portion of the ticket sales will go towards elephant conservation. The Zoo society wants to raise $5,000 for each ZooBrew event and save elephants from extinction.

COVID Guidance is in for NY schools coming down from the New York State Education Department.  The state’s guidance calls for high-risk sports to be canceled and for extracurricular activities to be held virtually, or to also be canceled, in areas of high community spread unless all participants have been fully vaccinated. The guidance also states people who are fully vaccinated can refrain from quarantine following potential exposure if they are asymptomatic.  The guidance on masks in schools simply reiterates the CDC guidance which says that all teachers, staff and students should wear masks indoors regardless of vaccine status but does not go so far as to insist that NY schools should mask up.  They repeat multiple times that it is up to School Districts to decide for themselves.

The FDA now says that if you have a compromised immune system because of a transplant or your immune system is being suppressed somehow you may be eligible to receive a third COVID vaccine shot.  It’s harder for vaccines to rev up an immune system suppressed by certain medications and diseases, so those patients don’t always get the same protection as otherwise healthy people — and small studies suggest for at least some, an extra dose may be the solution.  This third shot of either Pfizer or Moderna vaccines can be done at least 28 days after receiving the 2^nd dose.  This is not a booster shot and most likely only applies to 3 percent of the US population.

Lt Governor and soon to be acting Governor Kathy Hochul says she fully expects to put mask mandates in place before the beginning of the school year.  Just 12-days away from becoming governor of New York State Hochul boldly stated on NBC’s Today show children and everyone in schools will be wearing masks.  Hochul says this is only her “opinion” because she does not have the authority to create policy until she is governor.  But  Hochul says this time she wants school districts to be very involved in decision making.

Several Venues and artists are demanding proof of vaccination before fans will be allowed to enter.  Jason Isbell, headliner for the Borderland Festival in East Aurora has said he will refuse to perform unless all fans are vaccinated or have a negative test before the performance.  Other artists like Maroon 5, Dead and Company and Phish are following suit, they will also require a negative test or proof of vaccination.

Census numbers are out and over the past decade Genesee County has lost 2.8-percent of its population…but county officials are alright with that.
County Planning Director Felipe Oltramari said the loss was less than projected.
The county’s official population from the 2020 census is 58,388.
The population of the City of Batavia went up by 135 people and now stands at 15,600.

A Batavia man seriously injured when his car crashed into a home in Lockport.
63-year-old John Kindig was flown of ECMC by Mercy Flight following the crash late last night on Chestnut Ridge Road.
The home was declared a total loss.

The National Weather Service is warning of some Hazardous weather ahead.
The service is predicting thunderstorms for this afternoon and tonight with the risk of strong gusty winds and heavy rain.
No specific warnings have been issued.

She hasn’t even moved into the Executive Mansion yet, but Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul already has her eye on the 2022 race for governor. Hochul, who will take over for Governor Cuomo on August 24th, says she intends to seek a full four-year term.

The Buffalo Bills will be back on the gridiron tonight as they play in their first preseason game of the 2021 campaign. They’ll be in the Motor City to take on the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Bills starting quarterback Josh Allen will not be seeing any action since the team wants to use the game to evaluate who will serve as his backup when the regular season starts next month. Kickoff for this evening’s contest is set for 7 p-m.

Residents have renewed efforts to have Governor Andrew Cuomo’s name removed from the sign at Watkins Glen State Park amid his recent resignation over allegations of sexual harassment. A new petition on Change.org has accumulated over 1,000 supporters to remove the outgoing Governor’s name from the park’s main sign, which is located at the entrance to the state park’s gorge trail. Residents originally called for the Governor’s name to be removed from the sign back in mid-March when multiple women began to come forward accusing him of sexual harassment. The initial petition garnered over 3,600 signatures and has also seen new support.

The New York State Common Retirement Fund is evaluating 42 publicly traded shale oil and gas companies to determine if they are prepared for the transition to a low-carbon economy…that from New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, trustee of the third largest public pension plan in the country. The Fund also restricted investments in five more coal producers, adding those companies to the list of 22 that the Fund divested from in 2020. The actions come as part of DiNapoli’s comprehensive Climate Action Plan to mitigate investment risks posed by climate change and ultimately transition the Fund’s investment portfolio to net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.

Due to staff limitations, the Batavia City Clerk’s office will be unable to issue the following today…       Marriage Licenses or Certificates, Copies of a Death Certificate, Copies of a Birth Certificate and Fishing/Hunting Licenses. The office will remain open for all other services.

State Police arrested a 17-year-old and a 16-year-old after they led troopers on a vehicle pursuit in the city of Rochester.  The 2 individuals allegedly threw a loaded handgun from the vehicle as they failed to comply to troopers in the vehicle pursuit. Both individuals were charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the second and third degree, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 3rd Degree, and Unlawful Fleeing.  The 17-year-old has a previous Criminal Possession of a Weapon charge pending. Both teens were remanded and will answer charges in family court.

The New York State Education Department has released COVID-19 safety guidance for school districts across the state. The state health department had previously announced it would not be distributing safety guidance to schools ahead of the new school year. In response, the education department promised it would do so. School districts have been imploring the state for guidance as the new academic year approaches. This, as the pandemic persists and COVID cases increase with the rise of the delta variant. The newly released guidance is based on recommendations from the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Those organizations recommend universal indoor masking for teachers, students and staff, no matter their vaccination status. The state’s guidance also calls for high-risk sports to be canceled and for extracurricular activities to be held virtually, or to also be canceled, in areas of high community spread unless all participants have been fully vaccinated.

A Utility Terrain Vehicle was spotted by a Sheriff’s patrol at 1:34 a.m., July 31, on Route 33, in the area of Seven Springs Road, in the Town of Batavia and when the deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the driver failed to stop. According to the Sheriff’s Office, the drive took the UTV into harvestable crops causing significant damage to the crops and to fencing in the area. The Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying and locating the UTV. The UTV is described as white in color and affixed with lights that change colors while in operation.

Another Heat Advisory is in effect. This advisory is in effect until 8 tonight.
Again, the National Weather Service is warning of heat index values in the mid 90’s to as high as 100.
Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, try to stay out of the sun or take periodic rest breaks in the shade. Never leave young child or pets unattended in a vehicle.

OSHA has recognized the one-year anniversary of the death of a LeRoy man suspected of have succumbed to heat exhaustion on a job site in Geneseo.
35-year-old Timothy Barber was taken ill while working on the Route 63 bridge over the Genesee River in Geneseo on last July 7.
Temperatures reached 90 degrees that day.
Timothy was rushed to Strong Hospital but later died of apparent heat related illness.

The OSHA Buffalo office is using the anniversary of Barber’s death to remind employers with workers exposed to high temperatures:
They must provide workers with water, rest and shade;
Allowing new or returning workers to gradually increase workloads and take more frequent breaks to build tolerance to the heat and monitor their employees for signs of heat related illness.
Barber was on his second day working for Pavilion Drainage.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul says she’s ready to work hard for New Yorkers once her administration begins in 12 days. Hochul will be taking over for Governor Cuomo who said he’ll be resigning on August 24th. Hochul said that her staff will not include anyone from Cuomo’s office who behaved unethically.

When Governor Cuomo leaves office later this month, he’ll be doing so with the lowest favorability rating of his entire tenure. According to a new Marist Poll, Cuomo currently has a 28-percent favorability rating which is down 22 points from his previous low set back in February.

With just about a week until the opening of The Great New York State Fair, people are guessing what the 800 pounds of butter will become, as construction of one of the most beloved attractions gets underway – the 53rd Annual American Dairy Association North East Butter Sculpture. Sculptors Jim Victor and Marie Pelton unpacked the butter and their tools and began work on the sculpture over the weekend. The butter, produced from over two-thousand gallons of milk, came from Batavia, N.Y.-based producer O-AT-KA Milk Products. Even after the Fair, the butter doesn’t go to waste, instead, it gets recycled into renewable energy. The butter will be sent to Noblehurst Farms in Pavilion, where it goes into a digester along with other food waste from Wegmans stores and local Universities. The digester then breaks down the material and creates about 450 kilowatts of electricity, which is enough to power about 350 homes for a year. On a weekly basis, Noblehurst is responsible for diverting 100 tons of food waste from local landfills.

New York’s Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul is expected to succeed Governor Andrew Cuomo after he resigned earlier this week. She delivered remarks on Wednesday, with a promise to New Yorkers. Governor Cuomo will officially end his term on August 24th, as he faces damning sex allegations brought forth by several women who worked for him, as well as for being involved in other scandals involving his administration’s COVID response – making Kathy Hochul the 57th Governor of New York, and the first female governor of the state.

The head of the Republicans in the New York State Senate says state leaders with direct ties to disgraced Gov. Andrew Cuomo should step down. Republican Sen. Rob Ortt says Dr. Howard Zucker, the state health department commissioner, and Linda Lacewell, superintendent of the state’s financial services department, “directly aided Andrew Cuomo’s misdeeds” and therefore don’t deserve to keep their jobs. If Lacewell and Dr. Zucker don’t resign, Ortt said they should be removed by incoming governor Kathy Hochul.

Batavia PD received an anonymous tip that led to the recovery of some of the decorated stones and shells that were stolen from the Batavia Peace Garden a couple of weeks ago. The officers who recovered the stones and shells returned them to the Peace Garden. Peace Garden founder and director Paula Savage confirmed that the stones and shells returned were from the Peace Garden.

Randy Fancher, president of Fancher Properties of Akron, is returning to the Genesee County Planning Board tonight for a third time to propose a revised site plan for a mixed-use project on Main Road between Brickhouse Corners Drive and Tim Hortons in the Town of Pembroke. The latest version has Fancher Properties of Akron constructing a two-story building with 7,000 square feet of retail space on the first floor and six market rate apartments on the second floor, along with driveways, parking lots and a six-bay tenant parking garage to the south. A review of his site plan is on the agenda for tonight’s meeting starting at 7 o’clock at County Building 2 on West Main Street Road.

Another day, another heat advisory. The National Weather Service says today’s advisory will run from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. Heat index values in the mid-90s to as high as 100 can be expected.

Part of the Infrastructure Bill just passed through the Federal Senate is a regulation plan on page 1066 on how you will drive with a new car in 6 years.  The plan calls for “passive” systems to monitor the performance of a driver, for example, by using eye scans. Or, it requires automakers to passively gauge blood alcohol levels, perhaps by measuring them in the air of the vehicle.  If impairment is detected the vehicle will slow and then stop.  It stops short of mandating breathalyzers or ignition devices but leaves the door open.  All new cars sold after 2027 will be required to have these devices and have them active at all times.

As of now, Governor Cuomo will stand to get a full pension of over 100,000 dollars a year after his resignation.  But there is a bill going through to stop that from happening.  Democrat Senator James Skoufis has put forward a bill that revokes the public pension of a public officer who stands convicted on an impeachment.  This bill is retroactive.  The impeachment investigation into Cuomo is going forward regardless of his resignation.

Livingston County has announced that their county is not considering any new mask mandates.  Jennifer Rodriguez, Livingston Counties Public Health Director, says that “Cases are trending upwards we must remember that these are just cases – confirmed, positive cases of COVID-19, both delta and non-delta cases. We have had no recent deaths, and currently, there are four hospitalizations, all of which are unvaccinated individuals.”

The city of Batavia has been awarded a grant to work on the Bank Street waterline to the tune of 334 thousand dollars.  The current Bank street waterline will be updated to an 8” line.  Over 950 linear feet of 8-inch diameter water main will be installed and replace the current 4” and 6” lines that are undersized and aging, 90+-year-old water lines.  The estimated cost of the project is $410,000 and the City will provide a local match to the grant of 20% or $82,000.  Currently, there is over $50M in public/private development in downtown Batavia, at various stages of planning, permitting, and construction.

The Buffalo Bisons had their opening home game last night, the first since August of 2019, and over 6,000 fans were in attendance.  A spokesperson for the Bisons says the official paid attendance for the return of Bisons baseball to Sahlen Field Tuesday was 6,404. The Blue Jays played home games at Sahlen Field from June 1 to July 21 and according to attendance numbers averaged just over 6,500 fans a game.  The Bison’s season goes from now till September 26^th.

The National Weather Service has posted a heat advisory until 8 p.m. tonight.
Heat index values will approach the upper 90’s.
Drink plenty of fluids, stay out of direct sunlight and check up on relatives and neighbors. Keep pets out of unattended vehicles.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office has advice for anyone planning to have their driveway paved or repaired.
Contractors in most towns need a permit to solicit door to door.
This often happens when a company is already in the neighborhood and contacts neighbors nearby. Most are legitimate, but many are not. Ask to see their permit. If they offer a price that is too good to be true, it probably is.

On the bad girl’s report: Nateeka Gibson, believed to be from Batavia, has been arrested for burglary, sex abuse and prostitution.
Police found Nateeka when they were called to home on Holland Ave and found Nateeka in a fracas with another woman. It was then with the help of K-9 Batu, police found Nateeka hiding in the basement and learned of outstanding warrants against her.

The heat is definitely going to be on across the Finger Lakes today, and National Grid wants customers to be ready. The utility company says there will be a high demand on energy through the afternoon and early evening hours as temperatures hover around the 90-degree mark. To help save a bit of money, National Grid says you should use fans to circulate air around your home and even adjust your thermostat by a couple of degrees.

Embattled governor Andrew Cuomo announced he will be stepping down as leader of New York effective in 14 days…this decision came in the wake of last week’s Attorney General bombshell report detailing sexual harassment allegations against him. Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul will take over the reins. She will be the first female governor in the state’s history, and the first governor from Buffalo since Grover Cleveland became president in 1885.

A LeRoy Town Court justice has resigned. The State Commission on Judicial Conduct says the resignation comes as that judge was under investigation. John Duyssen submitted his resignation in June and left office on July 8. He has agreed not to seek judicial office in the future. Duyssen served as a judge for LeRoy Town Court since 2018, and his current term was set to run through the end of the year. In January, the Commission said it was investigating complaints stemming from the judge’s arrest for child endangerment and harassment.

Batavia police say they arrested Nateeka M. Gibson. She is charged with burglary 2nd, sex abuse 1st, robbery 3rd, grand larceny 4th, criminal mischief 4th, and prostitution.  Officers say they were aware of four active arrest warrants against Gibson from City Court and Town of Batavia Court. She was also a suspect in an ongoing investigation where charges are still pending. Gibson was placed under arrest after an alleged brief struggle inside the residence.  Gibson was arraigned in City Court and ordered held without bail.  Police suspect Gibson of stealing money from the victim on two occasions and prevented the male from calling 9-1-1.

40-year-old Brooke Kimberley Tubbins of Ellicott Street in Batavia has been arrested and charged with grand larceny 3rd and three counts of offering a false instrument for filing.  Tubbins allegedly failed to report income on two applications for SNAP benefits and as a result, received $6,215 in benefits she was not qualified. Tubbins was arraigned in Town of Batavia Court and released on her own recognizance.

The remains found in the Genesee River last week have been identified. Members of the Rochester Police Department scuba team discovered Tammy Greer’s body inside a vehicle in the Genesee River on Aug. 5. They did so during a training exercise. When the vehicle was pulled out of the river, the remains were found. Greer is from Pennsylvania and believed to have moved to Rochester in 2018 or 2019. She has no local family, according to police. They believe the vehicle entered the river sometime after May 2019. Police continue to investigate how and why the vehicle went into the river and how Greer died, though they do not suspect foul play.

Governor Cuomo announced today that he will be stepping down from his post and Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul will become New York’s first female governor.   In a live address just before noon Tuesday, Gov. Cuomo denied the allegations of sexual harassment but did say he takes “full responsibility” for making the women who came forward uncomfortable.  Cuomo says he will leave office within 14 days.  His announcement came just after his attorney addressed the allegations and charges against him in a separate press conference where Outside Council Glavin said the Attorney Generals reports were full of errors and omitted key evidence.

There is a heat advisory today through 8pm on Wednesday in the GLOW region.  The temperature is expected get up to mid 90s with a high humidity.  Officials say to drink plenty of water, avoid staying out in the sun, seek air conditioning and keep special watch over pets, children and older adults.

The State Education Department is picking up the slack on guidance for schools this fall.  Earlier this week the New York State Health Department said it would not send out additional COVID guidance for the fall term and that school districts should make their policies based on CDC guidance.  Now The State Education Department says it will provide its own guidance.  Betty Rosa, head of NYSED, said they were forced to develop guidance because the state health department and Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office did not. She did not indicate when that guidance would be put forth.  Last month, local superintendents implored the state to provide reopening guidance so they could plan their return to school.

GO Health says that Orleans county is now in the level of Substantial community transmission with 26 active cases after months of having under 10 active cases a day.  Director Paul Petit says that this was not unexpected as case rates have been higher in surrounding counties and the delta variant is causing higher numbers of unvaccinated people to contract COVID.

Police in Attica urge the public to be on the lookout for a very large lizard.
The 4-and-a-half-foot monitor lizard escaped from its it’s owner on July 29th.
Police tell WBTA the lizard is venomous; it can bite and he downright dangerous to children and small animals.

It was spotted in the 200 block of Exchange Street yesterday afternoon. The homeowner managed to snap a picture but the reptile was gone by the time police arrived. Police say if you see the lizard do not approach it. It will bite, although it is not fatal to humans – but who wants to be bit by a four-foot-long lizard?

A Batavia woman busted for welfare fraud. 40-year-old Brooke Tubbins of Ellicott Street is charged with Grand Larceny for allegedly collecting over $6,000 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to.
Tubbins was arraigned in the Town of Batavia Court and then released on her own recognizance.

At least one City of Batavia resident is fed up with the traffic jams at the Dunkin Donuts on West Main St. and ambulance sirens in the vicinity of Oak and Union streets. Speaking during the public comment portion of the City Council Conference Meeting, Michael Barrett urged council members to look into a way to alleviate both situations. The owner of Barrett’s Batavia Marine Sporting Goods reported that vehicles lined up for coffee and donuts are infringing upon his property.
Council members agreed with Barrett’s observations.

The chairman of the Assembly Judiciary Committee says the impeachment investigation into Governor Cuomo is expected to continue for a few more weeks. Members of the committee met for hours yesterday in Albany just days after state Attorney General Letitia James released a report claiming the governor sexually harassed several women. Committee chairman Charles Lavine says the probe won’t focus completely on the AG’s findings, and that the governor’s lawyers have until Friday to submit documents to support his defense. The governor is denying all allegations made against him and says he’s not planning to resign.

The impeachment investigation into Gov. Andrew Cuomo could be done by the end of August. For the remainder of the month the state Assembly Judiciary Committee will hold hearings to review evidence against Gov. Cuomo and hear expert testimony about sexual harassment and the standards for impeachment. Committee Chairman Charles Lavine said Cuomo has until Friday to submit evidence and he promised the committee would consider it. An impeachment process could likely start in early September.

At least one City of Batavia resident is fed up with the traffic jams at the Dunkin Donuts on West Main St. and ambulance sirens in the vicinity of Oak and Union streets. Speaking during the public comment portion of the City Council Conference Meeting, Michael Barrett urged council members to look into a way to alleviate both situations. The owner of Barrett’s Batavia Marine Sporting Goods reported that vehicles lined up for coffee and donuts are infringing upon his property and, moreover, said he is afraid that a major accident is just waiting to happen. He noted that there is a sign there that indicates no left hand turns, but it isn’t being heeded. Council members agreed with Barrett’s observations, with Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. asking City Manager Rachael Tabelski to see if the ambulances could sometimes use a different route that could be just as fast and to study traffic patterns at Dunkin Donuts during its peak times.

Tonight is Batavia Police Community Night Out.  Thirty-seven business, organizations and individuals have signed on to support the outreach, which is scheduled for 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the City Church’s St. Anthony’s campus at 114 Liberty Street.  The event offers entertainment in the forms of a bounce house, balloon artist, games at vendor booths, and pony rides. Additionally, the police chief and his assistant chief have offered their services at the dunk tank, which will raise money for the K-9 fund.

Citing the “need for speed,” the Genesee County Legislature has approved a resolution to accept a pair of bids for the construction of a new water pump station along Golden Road in the Town of Chili to advance Phase 2 of the Countywide Water Project. Legislators awarded the general construction contract to C.P. Ward, Inc., of Scottsville, for an amount not to exceed $2.8 million and the electrical construction contract to Kaplan-Schmidt Electric, Inc., of Rochester, for an amount not to exceed $595,000.

According to the CDC COVID Data Tracker, Orleans County has increased to substantial level of community transmission. Genesee County is currently maintaining a moderate level of transmission for COVID-19.

Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $3.19, up one cent in the past week. One year ago, the price was $2.18. The New York State average is $3.21 – up one cent from last week. Batavia gas prices have edges up two cents over the last seven days. However, motorists report Triple-A prices are not correct…and that prices are much higher.

Over 50 New York State county Democratic Chairs are calling on New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo to resign, including the majority of the Democratic Chairs in Western New York.  Of New York State’s 62 Democratic Chairs for each county, 51 of them are calling on New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo to resign, including six in Western New York.  This includes Michael Plitt of Genesee county, Cynthia Appleton of Wyoming county and Jeff Lewis of Orleans county.

Sahlen field will be smile free indoors at all locations when people are not eating or drinking.  Officials announced today that masks will be required whenever indoors.  Indoor locations include restrooms, club level suites, all gift shops, and the Pub at the Park.  Masks are strongly encouraged in outdoor areas as well.

A new report says Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul is preparing for the possibility of Governor Cuomo either resigning or being removed from office.
The Wall Street Journal says Hochul has been seeking advice on several issues, including who from the current administration could be asked to stay.
Hochul has reportedly told people close to her that she might have to take over running the state within the next several weeks.
If that happens, Hochul would become the first female governor in New York history.

PHOTO: Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul

The spread of COVID-19 is continuing to worsen across the Finger Lakes and there are no signs of it slowing down. The seven-day average COVID-19 positivity rate is now three-point-five-four percent which is the fourth highest of any region in the Empire State. Genesee County is part of the Finger Lakes Region. The county’s 7-day rate is 2.0 percent.

Fully vaccinated Americans and permanent residents will be allowed to enter Canada for non-essential travel beginning today. The border will reopen to Americans who have been fully vaccinated for at least 14 days.

A Heat Advisory is in effect for the rest of this afternoon.
The National Weather Service warns of heat index values of between 95 and 100…that’s a combination of temperature and humidity.
The Weather Service says hot temperatures and high humidity can cause heat illnesses to occur.
They advise you to brink plenty of fluids, stay out of the sun, check up on neighbors and never leave pets unattended in vehicles.

The price of gasoline seems to have been moving in one direction: up.
Over the past week, the average cost of a gallon of regular in Batavia has risen 2-cents from last week to $3.21 – and a dollar more than a year ago.

Promises that there will be a fair and impartial investigation into the first criminal complaint against Governor Cuomo, following a state probe that he sexual harassed multiple women, which he denies. Sheriff Craig Apple of Albany County at briefing said that the woman’s decision to come forward is likely “the hardest thing that she’s ever done in her life”…and he answered questions about possible charges. The criminal complainant is identified as “executive assistant number one,” in the New York attorney general’s report this week, which described her as somebody who endured a pattern of inappropriate conduct.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s top aide Melissa DeRosa has resigned. Her resignation comes at a time where the embattled governor is facing potential impeachment. Her name appears throughout the New York State Attorney General’s report released August 3 that found Cuomo sexually harassed 11 women. In a statement, she said “Personally, the past 2 years have been emotionally and mentally trying.” She said she was forever grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such talented and committed colleagues on behalf of the state.

Charges have been filed following a disturbance outside of Autozone in the Town of Batavia. Sheriff’s deputies arrested 27-year-old Joseph Dispenza of Lewiston Road. He was charged with two counts of harassment following a physical altercation with two people. Court action is pending.

A Stafford woman was taken into custody Sunday afternoon following a larceny complaint at Walmart in Batavia. Deputies arrested 21-year-old Brittany Bolton. She allegedly stole $293 in property from the store. She’ll responded to the charge in Batavia Town Court on September 21^st.

New York’s COVID positivity rate has now increased to 3.06%. Hospitalizations and those admitted to Intensive Care have climbed again. Eleven new virus-related deaths have also been reported. The percentage of New Yorker’s who have received complete vaccinations has risen to 56%.

Planning to visit Canada after the border opens again on Monday to fully vaccinated Americans?  There are a few things you need to do first.  You need proof of a negative molecular covid test within 72 hours of reaching the border, register with Arrivecan a free app for your phone, have your vaccine card and passport handy, and be ready to take another covid test once you arrive in Canada.  If you test positive you will need to quarantine so have a plan in case you have to stay put on the other side.

As of Friday, all Tops employees are required to wear masks again regardless of their vaccination status.  At this time masks are not required for vaccinated shoppers, but Tops is recommending that you wear a mask.  Masks are still required for non-vaccinated shoppers.

Funeral Director Michael Tomaszewski’s sentencing for fraud has been delayed for unspecified reasons.  It was supposed to take place last Wednesday morning after he plead guilty to Grand Larceny among other crimes in April.  The new court date is set for October 6^th.

What can you do with a million dollars, fix the aeration system at the water treatment plant!  The 30 year old air header system at the plant had been judged to be compromised and the air lines had degraded over the years, causing waste products not to be broken down fast enough and a bad smell to waft away from the treatment plant and into surrounding neighborhoods.  The city worked with the DEC to try to mask the smell.  A temporary system was set up but can only do half the job of a whole new system.  Material delays set the project back months but work is being completed and the city is working to expedite completing the project.

There are bicycle safety classes happening Monday all around Batavia.  The Summer Rec Program, YMCA and Batavia Police department are partnering up to bring bicycle safety to the city with classes at Lambert, Austin, Farrall, Williams and John Kennedy Parks Monday the 9^th.  For a list of times check wbtai.com.

9:00 a.m. – Lambert Park

10:00 a.m. – Austin Park

12:00 p.m. – Farrall Park

1:00 p.m. – Wiliams Park

2:00 p.m. – John Kennedy School

Tuesday night is Batavia Police Community Night Out and it looks to be a big one.  Thirty-seven business, organizations and individuals have signed on to support the outreach, which is scheduled for 5:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the City Church’s St. Anthony’s campus at 114 Liberty St.  the event offers entertainment in the forms of a bounce house, balloon artist, games at vendor booths, and pony rides through A Horse’s Friend Trail Riding & Youth Programs based in Rush.  Additionally, Police Chief Shawn Heubusch and Assistant Chief Chris Camp have offered their services at the dunk tank, which will raise money for the K-9 fund.

The Buffalo Bills and Josh Allen have come to an agreement for another 6 years.  The 25 year old will be staying with the Bills through the 2028 season after leading the Bills to a 13-3 season in 2020 and breaking 6 single season records.  ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports Allen’s six-year contract is worth $258 million, including $150 million guaranteed.

One of the women who came forward to accuse Governor Cuomo of inappropriate touching her on multiple occasions has taken her complaint to the police after the state attorney general refused to press charges after finding that Cuomo did commit the actions that 11 women accused him of.  The woman, who is Cuomo’s Executive Assistant no 1, said that the governor intentionally touched her on the butt and breasts, kissed her forcibly multiple times, grabbed and rubbed her butt during a selfie, and slapped her butt on a tour of the Executive Mansion.  Albany Sheriff Craig Apple confirmed that she has filed criminal complaints against Cuomo.

The 2 teens charged in the indiscriminate shooting at a Lockport party in October of 2020 have plead guilty.  They were caught after firing a pistol though a closed door into the garage of a house where a Halloween party was going on, injuring 5 people and killing 20 year old Cheyenne Farewell.  The two boys, 16 and 17, plead guilty to 2^nd degree murder, 2 counts of 1^st degree assault, 2 counts of 2^nd degree assault, 1 count of criminal possession of a weapon, and 1 count of 1^st degree reckless endangerment.  The boy who pulled the trigger could get 20 years to life and the accomplice could get up to 25 years in prison.

The Buffalo Bisons are offering free tickets to healthcare workers for their August and 14^th and 15^th games.  If you are a healthcare worker and show your employer Id during the Bisons home opening weekend you can get 2 free tickets at the Sahlen Field box office.  For the game on August 14, the first 2,000 fans will receive a replica Buffalo Bisons jersey, and kids will be able to run the bases after the game on August 15.  Both games will be played at 1:05 p.m. against the Rochester Red Wings.  Regular tickets are 10 dollars.

Liberty Pumps of Bergen is planning a major expansion.
The company has filed for various tax incentives from the county’s Economic Development Center amounting to about  $1.4-million.
The project would add about 107,000 square feet of warehouse and manufacturing space.
The total investment by Liberty Pumps amounts to nearly $14-million and would create 30 new jobs over the next three years.
Liberty Pumps currently employs 280 people.

A Genesee County bridge is deemed unsafe and has been closed effective immediately. County officials say a recent inspection of the Colby Road bridge over Murder Creek in the Town of Pembroke revealed the span was unsafe. That bridge is located just south if the CSX Railroad tracks that run alongside Route 33.
The county will be assessing the condition of the bridge and will re-open it when it’s safe.

It will be up to schools to determine what protocols will be in place to protect students and staff from COVID-19.
Doctor Howard Zucker, the State Health Commissioner, is recommending that schools follow local health department and federal guidance as they try and keep students and staff from getting sick.
Zucker says because there’s no longer a state of emergency in effect, schools are responsible for creating their own rules regarding masks, social distancing and COVID-19 testing.

Tomorrow, fans of the Buffalo Bills will once again have the opportunity to see their team get ready for the upcoming season. For the second Saturday in a row, the Bills are opening up training camp practice at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park to the public.
Tickets are required – problem is, … it’s already sold out.

This weekend at Williams Park it’s the “Seats and Feet” Back to School Drive…collecting new underwear and socks for local kids
It’s being held tomorrow and Sunday and Noon to 2 at the Williams Park Playground. All donations will benefit and Batavia City Schools Community Closet – all sizes are appreciated.

Due to a recent bridge inspection the Colby Road bridge over the Murder Creek in the Town of Pembroke will need to be closed to all traffic immediately until further notice.  The bridge is located just south of the CSX Railroad Tracks that run alongside NYS Route 33. Genesee County will be assessing the bridge condition and we will reopen the bridge as soon as it is safe to do so.

The Genesee Valley BOCES School Library System has been awarded a National Leadership Grant for Libraries in response to the need to identify recommendations for effective post-COVID school library programs. This $150,000 grant will fund four virtual national forums on the future of school libraries. The first work in the grant project will be the convening of a national advisory panel.

The New York State Department of Transportation has announced that applications are currently being accepted for approximately 26 full-time positions in the DOT’s fleet administration and transportation maintenance disciplines in Central New York, including Syracuse, Ithaca, Oswego and the surrounding communities. Additional positions above and beyond these 26 spots are anticipated to be filled in the coming months. To be eligible, candidates must be at least 18 years old and pass a physical and drug test. Most positions also require a valid, clean Class A or B commercial driver license, and the ability to operate DOT heavy dump trucks within two weeks after start of employment.

After a one-day reprieve, positive cases of COVID-19 in New York are on the rise…again. Official now report the positivity rate has climbed to 2.77%. It was 2.57% the day before. Hospitalizations and ICU admissions have also increased. Five more ICU patients have been placed on ventilators.

Applications are now being accepted with anticipated move-in capability for December 1 for Liberty Square Apartments on East Main Street, Batavia. Liberty Square is a 28-unit program located at 554 East Main Street in Batavia that will serve homeless or unstably housed Veterans with disabilities in a Permanent Supportive Housing environment. The 28 units are integrated into a 55-unit, general occupancy community, being developed in partnership with Home Leasing, LLC. Applications for the Supportive Housing apartments are available at the Eagle Star Housing website.

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker issued a special statement Thursday afternoon. He said…With the end of the state disaster emergency on June 25, school districts are reestablished as the controlling entity for schools. Schools and school districts should develop plans to open in-person in the fall as safely as possible, and he recommends following guidance from the CDC and local health departments.

Rochester Police are investigating after a body was found in a vehicle recovered Thursday from the Genesee River in Charlotte. Police could be seen Thursday evening on River Street, near the Genesee River. According to investigators, a vehicle was found by a SCUBA team in the area. After it was recovered, a body was reportedly found inside. Police say the matter is considered suspicious at this time, and that the Major Crimes Unit is investigating.

The New York State Assembly Judiciary Committee says it’s investigation into Governor Andrew Cuomo is “nearing completion” and the governor’s counsel was also given a deadline to submit evidence. Cuomo’s lawyers were told to submit any new evidence in the sexual harassment case to the committee by next Friday.

New York State Department of Health has stated that they will not be issuing COVID 19 guidance to schools by start of term in September.  The state office says to continue following CDC guidelines which at the moment say encourage wearing masks and vaccinating.  Local school districts will have to set their own policy come the beginning of the school year.

As of now most venues and entertainment locations have not changed their policies on wearing masks or allowing unvaccinated people into events.  County Health Officials in Ontario County say that spikes happen but then the spread goes back down so they are following the numbers but its not time to make big changes.  In Orleans, Genesee and Wyoming Counties there are a total of 26 active cases.  95 percent of new cases and hospitalizations in areas where there is substantial spread are among the unvaccinated.  Death rates have not substantially increased even with case rates going up.  Officials credit this to most of the new cases being among people under the age of 40 who don’t have co-morbidities.  They caution those who have compromised immune systems or can’t take the vaccine to avoid large indoor gatherings where social distancing can’t be maintained.

The Health Department is looking for the dog that bit an employee at Home Depot on Saturday July 17^th around noon.  The dog is a small black dog that was near register 2 at the time of the incident.  The employee asked if they could pet the dog and were told yes before they were bit on the hand.  The owners asked if they were ok then left the store.  It is important to locate the dog to determine whether or not it is current on its rabies shot. If the health status is not identified, post-exposure rabies shots will be offered to the victim.  If you have information about the location of the dog and its owners, please contact the Genesee County Health Department at 585-344-2580 ext. 5555.

The Genesee County Health Department is hosting a free drive through =rabies clinic Thursday august 12^th from 4-7pm at the Genesee county Fairgrounds.  Vaccines are free for dogs, cats and ferrets.  Animals must be at least 3 months old.  Animals must be leashed or crated.  Limit of 4 pets per car.  The next clinic will be September 16^th.

Liberty Square is now accepting applications from qualified veterans looking for housing.  Liberty Square is a 28-unit apartment building located at 554 East Main Street,  in Batavia that will serve homeless or unstably housed Veterans with disabilities in a Permanent Supportive Housing environment.  To qualify, you must have served in the military, be in a housing crisis and have an identified disability or case management need.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo

The Judiciary Committee of the New York State is giving Governor Cuomo until August 13th to submit the evidence in the Governor’s defense against sexual harassment complaints.
The committee is close to concluding its work and possibly moves toward articles of impeachment against the governor.
All of this comes after a report this week by the state attorney general that accuses the governor of sexually harassing numerous women.
Cuomo denies the allegations and has no plans to resign.
Multiple district attorneys have opened criminal investigations into the Democratic governor.

A former substitute teacher in Dansville now faces new charges in Batavia. Police arrested 29-year-old Derek Hagen and charged him with a felony count using a child in a sexual performance. Last week, he was charged with two counts of child pornography. Court action is pending.

Starting this Tuesday, sections of the Center Street lot in Batavia will be closed for paving operations.
The work will be performed August 10th, during the business day between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. and is weather-dependent.

New York’s statewide COVID positivity rate has taken a decent decline in the past day. Officials say the rate is now 2.57%, down from 3.47% the day before. While that’s good news, there is less encouraging news. Officials say 50 more people have been hospitalized and 14 others have been admitted to Intensive Care. Seven new virus-related deaths have also been reported.

The GLOW Corporate Cup 5K begins tonight in Batavia.
Over 700 runners have registered for the race that begins at 6p.m.on Richmond Ave. across from the State School for the Blind.
Proceeds from the race benefit to the GLOW Region YMCA.

A former substitute teacher in Dansville now faces new charges in Batavia. Police arrested 29-year-old Derek Hagen and charged him with a felony count of use of a child in a sexual performance. Last week, he was charged with two count of child pornography. Court action is pending.

According to a Marist Poll, 59 percent of New Yorkers think the Governor should step down. The poll was conducted Tuesday night, after the results of the New York Attorney General’s Office’s investigation into Andrew Cuomo were announced. The report concluded that Gov. Cuomo sexually harassed several women. More than half of the registered Democrats who were surveyed say he should resign.

Starting on August 10, sections of the Center Street lot in Batavia will be closed for paving operations. This work will be performed during the business day between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. and is weather-dependent.

District attorneys in Westchester and Manhattan on Wednesday announced their offices had reached out to the attorney general for “investigative materials” from their probe into multiple sexual harassment allegations against Gov. Andrew Cuomo. The news comes after Albany District Attorney David Soares on Tuesday said his office had launched a criminal investigation into the allegations against the governor. Soares said his office was also planning to formally request information from the investigation by the AG. James revealed the conclusion of her office’s probe Tuesday morning, calling the findings “disturbing.”

Two inmate fights occurred in the Elmira Correctional Facility fieldhouse less than an hour apart on Sunday, according to union officials representing the officers. The fights resulted in two inmates being cut multiple times by make-shift weapons at the maximum-security prison. No staff were injured in either incident.

New York’s statewide COVID positivity rate has taken a decent decline in the past day. Officials say the rate is now 2.57%, down from 3.47% the day before. While that’s good news, there is less encouraging news. Officials say 50 more people have been hospitalized and 14 others have been admitted to Intensive Care. Seven new virus-related deaths have also been reported.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has announced that hunting and trapping licenses and Deer Management Permits for the 2021-2022 seasons are on sale now. In addition, DEC announced new opportunities for hunters this year, including expanded hunting seasons and allowing youth ages 12 and 13 to hunt deer with a firearm or crossbow in upstate counties that have passed a local low and ‘opted in’ to participate. Beginning this week, the DEC Call Center’s hours of operation are from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays through Nov. 30. Regular call center weekday hours will resume on Dec. 1.

The Law firms working on the Cuomo sexual harassment investigations, Joon Kim, the former U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Anne L. Clark, a partner at Vladeck Raskin & Clark, P.C, are getting paid 325 to 750 dollars an hour depending on the level of associate in their firm doing the work.  Their initial contract was for 6 months but can be extended by State Attorney General Letitia James.  All of this is being paid for with taxpayer money.

The Attica Rodeo is this week running tomorrow through the 8^th.  The rodeo features bull riding, cattle penning, barrel racing and many other events.  It starts at 8pm on Thursday and Friday, 1 and 8 on Saturday and 2 on Sunday.  Gates open 2 hours before the start of the show.  Cost for admission is 18 dollars for adults, 8 dollars for kids 6-12 years old and 5 and under get in free.  Children can attend free for the early shows on Saturday and Sunday with paid adult admission.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo’s political future hangs in the balance a day after the state attorney general released a report accusing him of sexually harassing nearly a dozen women. Democratic Albany County District Attorney David Soares says lawmakers will move to quickly finish their impeachment inquiry into the Democrat governor and he’s calling on any additional potential accusers to step forward.
He went on to say Governor Cuomo has lost the confidence of the majority. Even President Biden yesterday called for him to step down. Cuomo maintains he has not acted inappropriately and says he has no plans to resign.

While Governor Cuomo has said he won’t leave office due to sexual harassment allegations, several politicians including President Biden are urging him to go. Biden said the governor should resign, echoing similar calls from Democrat Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Democrat Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.

A poll shows 59-percent of New Yorkers want Governor Andrew Cuomo to resign. The Marist survey conducted last night shows 32-percent think the governor should serve out the rest of his term. The poll was conducted hours after a report by the state attorney general accused the governor of sexually harassing numerous women and creating a toxic work environment. The poll also shows just eleven-percent of New Yorkers think he deserves re-election. The governor says the allegations are false and he called the report biased.

The latest data from New York State shows the spread of the coronavirus is worsening again across Western New York. Right now, the seven-day average infection rate is three-point-three-three percent, an increase from earlier this week and the second highest rate in any area of the state.
Genesee County, meanwhile, is in the Finger Lakes Region.
The county’s positivity rate remains at 1.1 percent, among the lowest in the state.

The independent investigators appointed by New York Attorney General Letitia James have released their report into the multiple allegations of sexual harassment by Governor Andrew Cuomo. After nearly five months, the investigators concluded that Governor Cuomo did sexually harass multiple women — including former and current state employees — by engaging in unwanted groping, kissing, and hugging, and making inappropriate comments. Further, the governor and his senior staff took actions to retaliate against at least one former employee for coming forward with her story. Finally, according to the report, the Executive Chamber fostered a “toxic” workplace that enabled “harassment to occur and created a hostile work environment.” The investigators find that Governor Cuomo’s actions and those of the Executive Chamber violated multiple state and federal laws, as well as the Executive Chamber’s own written policies.

The scathing report by the New York Attorney General’s Office into allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct by Gov. Andrew Cuomo has triggered an emergency meeting by the New York State Assembly. Speaker Carl Heastie said Tuesday that lawmakers “will move expeditiously and look to conclude our impeachment investigation as quickly as possible.” Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has called for Cuomo to step down.

A North Chili man faces 26 counts following a high-speed chase that started in Stafford and ended with a successfully deployed spike strip in the City of Batavia. 23-year-old James Lepore was arrested. He was charged with felony first-degree reckless endangerment, criminal possession of a firearm, unlawfully fleeing police, drug possession, speeding along with 21 other traffic offenses. Lepore was arraigned in Town of Batavia Court and under terms of bail reform released on his own recognizance.

New York’s COVID positivity rate now stands at 3.47%. Hospitalizations have jumped by 64 in a single day and admission to the ICU have also climbed. Five new deaths have also been reported.

A Rochester music teacher is going to prison of 50 years after being convicted of 74 charges, including 61 counts of production of child pornography. 43-year-old Philip Close pleaded guilty in the case. Between 2012 and 2019, Close produced hundreds of videos of child pornography involving 61 identified minor victims. The youngest victim was four years old. While executing search warrants at the Close School of Music, investigators also discovered 13 devices that contained other images and videos of child pornography. The U.S. Attorney’s Office said in a statement – “if you seek to exploit children to satisfy your own perverse interests, be prepared to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and potentially to lose your freedom forever.”

Wegmans says employees will once again be required to wear face masks at work. This, the company says, comes after reviewing updated guidance from the CDC and health departments. Customers are not required to wear masks, however it is strongly recommended they do so

The issue with the Genesee County Sheriffs office phone has been resolved and should be working properly now.

GO Health Departments will be on the road with Back-to-School Pop-up Clinics the week of August 9th across Genesee and Orleans Counties.  The Pfizer vaccine will be offered at the clinics, which is approved for everyone 12 years of age and older.  COVID-19 vaccines are both safe and effective.  Each clinic is open to the public and walk-ins will be accepted. Appointments are strongly encouraged. Anyone under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian with them to receive the vaccine.  The second dose of the vaccine will be offered three weeks after the first shot at the same school during the same time.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo

State AG Letitia James

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is facing serious charges of sexual harassment. Attorney General Letitia James announced the findings of her five-month investigation into allegations from multiple women that Cuomo created a sexually hostile work environment. The report cites numerous women, including current and former state employees, who claim the Democrat touched their “intimate body parts” and made unwanted advances. In one instance, a staffer said Cuomo reached under her blouse and touched her breasts. James said she has proof that Cuomo’s office intimidated witnesses and created a “toxic work environment” based upon 74,000 pieces of evidence.

Deputies say speeds reached 100 miles an hour chasing down a suspect for speeding on Route 33 in Stafford.
23-year-old James Lepore of Chili was finally stopped with spike strips deployed by lawmen on Route 98 just north of the city.
Lepore was charged with Reckless Endangerment, criminal possession of a firearm, speeding and 21 additional traffic offenses.
Deputies, who were assisted in the chase by State and Batavia Police, said Lepore recklessly engaged in conduct that created a grave risk of death. Police said Lepore intentionally crossed over into the opposite lane causing other motorists to swerve out of the way. Speeds were estimated at 90 to 100 miles an hour.
Lepore was arraigned in thew Town of Batavia Court and under the terms of bail reform, he was released on his own recognizance.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s office is having telephone trouble. The administrative phone number, 345-3000, is not working. 9-1-1 emergency service is not affected.

Batavia’s Peace Garden, the line of international flags along West Main Street near the Holland Land Office, has been vandalized.
Peace Garden officials say volunteers spent hours and hours over the past two months decorating 100 stones and seashells for the landscape as part of an art project.
The peace garden is a popular place for people to just relax, take in the site, and enjoy the day. The stone project was completed on Tuesday, July 20.
By Wednesday morning, all 100 were gone, stolen in the night.
Officials say they will not replace them.

A Batavia man has been accused of committing a sex crime. Sheriff’s deputies arrested 22-year-old Thomas Bergman of Park Road. He was charged with forcible touching. It is alleged that he forcibly touched the intimate parts of a female Uber driver while in the parking lot of the Relax Inn. Bergman was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released to return August 24^th.

Governor Andrew Cuomo suggests that businesses should only allow vaccinated people to go inside venues and events. Cuomo says that New Yorkers should follow guidance put out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention so everyone can stay safe.

The Friends of Richmond Memorial library will host their monthly book sale on Thursday from 9 am to 7 pm in the Wilber-Fox Room at the library. After more than a year without a monthly sale, the Friends are excited to welcome the community back. Thanks to many wonderful donations, there is a huge selection to choose from, including fiction, history, sports, cookbooks, gardening, children’s and many. Richmond Memorial Library is located at 19 Ross Street in the City of Batavia.

From Batavia…Peace Garden committee members spent numerous hours over two months painting and decorating 100 stones and seashells as an art project for the garden only to have it destroyed in one night by vandals. Paula Savage, the founder and director of the Peace Garden, said the final installation of the stones and shells was completed on July 20. That was a Tuesday.  By Wednesday evening, every single painted stone and shell was missing.

New York’s statewide COVID positivity has been dialed back a bit. The rate has dipped to 5.53%. Still thought, hospitalizations and admissions to the ICU have increased. Four new deaths have been reported.

The price of gas is up again, on both a national and a state level, with the highest increases in our area. Triple A says there’s another month of summer travel ahead through Labor Day, and college students will begin their return to campuses in the meantime, so gas demand will likely remain high.

With COVID-19 numbers starting to increase, Governor Cuomo says masking policies may not go far enough to stop the spread of the virus.  Of particular concern, the governor said during a news conference Monday, is the highly-contagious delta variant.  Cuomo is calling on local governments to require vaccination or testing for public-facing employees. and for private hospitals across the state to adopt such a policy. If COVID numbers don’t come down, Cuomo said he thinks schools should be making a similar demand for teachers in districts located in areas with high or substantial risk for transmission. He is encouraging private businesses to operate under a vaccine-only admission system.

The Buffalo Bills want a new stadium and they want the public to pay for it to the tune of 1.1 billion dollars.  Pegula Sports and Entertainment say they want to put the new stadium next to the old one in Orchard park.  They also want .4 billion dollars to fix up the Keybank Center.  Officials in Erie County have not made any comment and say they will not till a deal is reached.  ESPN reported that if the Bills don’t get the deal they like then they are considering moving to Austin Texas.  Erie County has denied that this was said in any of their correspondence.

It should have been expected. Summer driving is increasing demand for fuel and so the price at the pump goes up.
According to Triple A: the average price of a gallon of gas in Batavia has gone up two-cents over the past week….96-cents higher than a year ago.

This one is happening right now.
Numerous volunteer fire departments are responding to a barn fire on Hall’s Corners Road in Attica. Departments from both Genesee and Wyoming Counties are on scene.

An Attica man suffered what were described as non-life-threatening injuries following a crash on Route 98 in Alexander.
Deputies say 27-year-old Timothy Johnson crashed his jeep into a utility pole, the vehicle broke in half. Johnson was airlifted to ECMC.

The Buffalo Bills are reported to have proposed a $1.1 billion new stadium for the team.
Terry and Kim Pegula, the owners of the team, say the new stadium should be fully funded by New York taxpayers.
Many fans say while a new stadium is needed, they say the funds shouldn’t come out of their pockets.
When it comes to rumors of the team moving out of Buffalo altogether, fans are skeptical.

New York’s statewide COVID-19 positivity rate has now risen to 2.68%. On Sunday, 39 new hospitalizations were reported. Five new deaths were also attributed to virus-related complications.
Genesee County is reporting a 7-day positivity rate of point-8 percent.

No injuries were reported after a United Express flight had to make an emergency landing at Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport. The plane was traveling from Newark, New Jersey to Buffalo last night when a pilot noticed a fuel leak coming from the aircraft. It was then diverted to Rochester and was able to touch down safely a few minutes later.

With the Delta Variant of COVID making headlines every day and worries of new masking guidelines Erie County has mandated that anyone, vaccinated or not, must wear a mask in county buildings.  Erie county has nearly 100 new cases of COVID a day.  New York has seen a spike in cases with nearly 27 hundred a day for the last few days and a 7 day average of 1700 cases a day.  Nearly all new cases are in New York city or surrounding areas.  In Genesee County there are 4 active cases.  In Orleans county there are 6.  Nearly 50 percent of people in Genesee and Orleans counties are vaccinated.  The percentages of people vaccinated by county is within 10 percent for nearly all counties in New York State.

The Batavia Muckdogs finished their season 22 and 19.  Just short of being able to get into the playoffs.  But they are hopeful for next year and say that 2021 was a great first season for the new league and new team.  Coach Jeoy Martinez has been offered two more years on his contract.  Owner Robbie Nichols said that the community is why they are there, “You see people over there in line, talking, having a beer, people bringing their grandkids to the game, and that’s what it’s all about.  It’s America’s game. It’s about bringing your family to the ballpark and Batavia answered the bell and this crowd is amazing.”

Speaking of baseball, Governor Cuomo announced Friday that he has declared Baseball as the official sport of New York State.  This bill was proposed by a Cooperstown Elementary School 4th grade class. Cooperstown, NY is the home of the Baseball Hall of Fame and is believed to be the birthplace of the sport.  As the state sport, baseball joins a list of New York State symbols which includes milk as the state beverage, apple as the state fruit, the snapping turtle as the state reptile and yogurt as the state snack.

Buffalo Sabres forward Ramus Asplund has been offered and agreed to a 2 year deal for 825 thousand dollars per season.  Asplund was a restricted free agent.  Asplund, 23, is coming off his best season in the NHL. In 28 games played, the Sabres forward scored seven goals and added four assists for 11 points.  In his NHL career, Asplund has eight goals and 14 points in 57 games.

Today is senior citizen day at the county fair.  The schedule this afternoon is: Midway open for unlimited rides for 10 dollars for kids 16 and under form 1-5. The Genesee County fair talent show is at 2.  3:30 show up for the small fry tractor pull.  At 6 there is NIOGA Dairy Showmanship in the Main show ring.  The Demolition Derby starts at 7 with fireworks to follow.  Fair closes when the band stops playing in the Entertainment tent although the exhibits and buildings will be closed at 10.

Governor Cuomo has announced the launch of New York State’s $35 million Restaurant Return-to-Work Tax Credit program, designed to help expand employment opportunities for workers and provide relief to COVID-impacted restaurants. The program offers a tax credit for the rapid hiring of restaurant workers.  Qualifying restaurants could receive a $5,000 tax credit per new hire, totaling up to $50,000 in tax credits per business.  Critics of the program say that the problem isn’t getting restaurants to hire people, its getting people to apply, show up to interviews or even show up after being hired.  Proponents say that this allows restaurants to pay workers more per hour and will incentivize people to want to work.  Bars, taverns, nightclubs, and certain breweries, wineries, and distilleries with tasting rooms are also eligible for this new tax credit.  To apply follow the link on wbtai.com.  https://esd.ny.gov/restaurant-return-work-tax-credit

The Buffalo Sabres have made two signing decisions.  Defenseman Ethan Prow has signed a 1 year contract and Forward John Hayden has also signed for a year.   Hayden was a third-round draft pick by the Coyotes in 2013 and previously played for Sabres head coach Don Granato with the U.S. National Team Development Program from 2011 to 2013 earning a silver medal at the 2013 U-18 World Championship. The 28-year-old Prow has appeared in 215 career AHL games tallying 116 points. He was selected to the AHL All-Star Game in 2018-19.  He played in 26 games last season with EHC Munchen in Germany and had 20 points.  The Sabres also announced that Jason Christie, Matt Ellis and Marty Wilford have been hired as assistant coaches.

Schools in New York State are now prohibited from filing lawsuits against parents or guardians for unpaid meal fees. This was following the enactment of new legislation, signed by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo on Thursday. The Governor’s Office stated that this builds on the state’s “No Student Goes Hungry” program, aiming to help protect students and families from legal tactics. Cuomo’s office stated that the new legislation will work to concert with commitments made on the federal level, ensuring that students in the United States receive “vital” meals.

The City of Batavia Water Department will be making repairs to a water main on Williams Street today. The water will be shut off the length of Williams Street and it should be restored by 3:00. The repair effort may cause discolored water in the general area and you should please refrain from doing laundry until the water is clear.

New York’s COVID positivity rate took a slight break earlier this week…but now it is on the rise again. State officials say the rate is up to 2.49%. Two more deaths have been reported along with 20 more hospitalizations, bringing the statewide total to 611. 72% of New Yorkers age 18 and older have received at least one COVID vaccine dose.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced the launch of New York State’s $35 million Restaurant Return-to-Work Tax Credit program, designed to help expand employment opportunities for workers and provide relief to COVID-impacted restaurants. Created as part of the state budget, the program offers a tax credit for the rapid hiring of restaurant workers to reduce the restaurant industry’s pandemic-induced economic difficulties. Qualifying restaurants could receive a $5,000 tax credit per net new hire, totaling up to $50,000 in tax credits per business.

New York students may need to wear masks when school begins in September. The New York State Department of Education said New York health officials are developing new guidelines for the upcoming school year, and the basis of those guidelines will follow the new mask-wearing recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Earlier this week, the CDC said all students in K-12 should wear masks in the classroom. The education department sent a memo to school districts on Thursday so they can start preparing.

Sheriff’s deputies report the arrest old 23-year-old Andrea Tucker of Tonawanda. While at Six Flags Darien Lake, she allegedly made threats toward another person. She was charged with harassment and issued a ticket for Town of Darien court on August 17^th.

Melvin A Huntley

A Batavia man arrested earlier this month on child sex abuse charges, has been arrested again.
40-year-old Melvin Andre Huntley, of Wilkinson Road, is charged with two counts of first-degree sex abuse. Two children were involved: one was under 13, the other under 11.
Back on July 8, Huntley was arraigned on charges of predatory sexual assault against a child. These new charges are the result of the ongoing investigation.
Huntley is being held in the Genesee County Jail without bail.

With the start of classes a few weeks away, Governor Cuomo is urging schools statewide to keep a close eye on the growing number of COVID-19 cases. The governor said that districts may need to take aggressive action in order to prevent students and teachers from becoming super-spreaders. The Governor said that districts could require employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

There is a hint of good news on the COVID front in New York State.
The positivity rate has actually declined from yesterday…it’s now at 2.23%. However, there have been seven more COVID deaths and around 120 hospitalizations and admissions to the ICU.
The positivity rate in Genesee County has dipped a 10th of a point to point-4 percent.
There were no new positive cases reported yesterday.

The YMCA summer recreation program is cancelled today due to the threat of thunderstorms. This affects the summer rec program at Farrall, John Kennedy, Lambert and Williams Parks.
Summer Rec anticipates the program will operate tomorrow.

Day 7 of the Genesee County Fair.
Highlights today include the Midway, which opens at 4 this afternoon, The 4H Market Animal Auction sale begins at 7.

A Rochester woman is facing 14 felony counts after she allegedly attempted to scam Genesee County Social Services out of nearly $3,800. Deputies arrested 33-year-old Kristin Forte. She was charged with 8 counts of filing a false instrument, five counts of forgery and one count of grand larceny. Investigators said she submitted application or recertification’s for SNAP benefits but omitted her wages. She is also accused of forging several documents and signatures. She was arraigned in Town of Batavia court and released on her own recognizance.

A 40-year-old Batavia arrested earlier this month on sex abuse charges has been arrested on additional child sex abuse charges. Melvin Andre Huntley, of Wilkinson Road, is charged with two counts of first-degree sex abuse.  The children are less than 11 and less than 13 years old.  He is also charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. On July 8, he was arraigned on charges of predatory sexual assault against a child; course of conduct against a child in the first degree; first-degree rape; first-degree sex abuse. These new charges are the result of the ongoing investigation. The Sheriff’s Office is not releasing more information about the case at this time.  The investigation remains ongoing. Huntley is being held in the Genesee County Jail without bail

If you receive a call from anyone claiming to be a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and that there are pending charges against you that need to be paid for failing to appear, please hang up.  It is not the process of the Sheriff’s Office to call and request payment for any outstanding criminal charges. If you have any questions regarding whether a phone call is a scam, you can call the Sheriff.

The American Red Cross has an emergency need for lifesaving blood amid the ongoing severe blood shortage. Blood and platelet donations continue to be critical to meet hospital demand and the public is urged to make an appointment to give now. The Red Cross has been distributing about 12% more blood products to hospitals across the U.S. compared to this time last year. The Red Cross needs to collect more than 1,000 additional blood donations each day to meet the current hospital demand and end the severe blood shortage. Donors of all blood types are needed, especially type O, which stands at just a one-day supply right now.

New York is one of a growing number of states that are making their state employees either get vaccinated for COVID-19 or get tested regularly. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo says they are taking it a step further than other states. This comes as about 62-percent of New Yorkers have received at least one vaccine dose. Sen. George Borrello, who represents Allegany County, called the move outrageous, unconstitutional and more about muscle-flexing than public health.

It’s a good news-bad news story. There is a hint of good news on the COVID front in New York. The positivity rate has actually declined from yesterday…it’s now at 2.23%. However, there have been seven more COVID deaths and around 120 hospitalizations and admissions to the ICU. Cases in the Finger Lakes Region have continued to spike during the last three days.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed legislation which allows victims of human trafficking to recover actual, compensatory and punitive damages or other appropriate relief. This legislation also amends current law that requires an action to be commenced within 10 years of victimization to state an action can be commenced within 15 years after victimization has occurred.

Prospective election workers in New York will now have the opportunity to train virtually. Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has signed legislation that provides a more flexible approach to election worker training, permitting both online and in-person instruction and examination of election inspectors, poll clerks and election coordinators. In-person training may still be required for specialized issues, such as the use of voting machines. Additionally, this legislation removes the requirement that the course of instruction be taken every year. Election inspectors, poll clerks and election coordinators will still be required to pass the annual examination, but they will only need to take the training course once.

The City of Batavia will be redoing the Center Street Parking lot (across from Adam Miller Toy & Bicycle) starting today. Initial milling of the lot will not allow for parking for most of today. Paving will be done in sections to try and accommodate parking after today.

The Batavia City School District’s Registration Office will be located at the Robert Morris Site beginning on Monday, August 2, 2021.   Families are asked to use the Community Schools entrance when picking up or turning in registration materials, which is located off of the parking lot at the corners of Richmond and Vernon Avenues.  The hours are 8 AM-12 PM and 1 PM-3 PM until August 20.  Beginning August 23, hours are 8 AM-4 PM.

A second DEC Forest Ranger has been deployed to Montana to assist in fighting western wildfires. Yesterday, New York State welcomed home Forest Ranger Timothy Carpenter at the end of his two-week assignment fighting the Bootleg Fire raging in Oregon. Ranger Carpenter, from Steuben County, began his assignment July 10, when he joined more than 2,000 federal, state, and local fire agencies battling the Bootleg Fire in Oregon. The Bootleg Fire started on July 6 and has burned more than 400,000 acres. It is now approximately 53 percent contained. Sustained winds and low humidity make this a difficult fire to get under control. The fire has already destroyed more than 200 buildings, forcing the evacuation of about 2,000 people.

New York’s COVID positivity rate continues its upward trend. In the most recent state report, the rate has climbed to 2.46%. New hospital admissions have increased along with patients being sent to the ICU. Nearly 1,700 new positive cases.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office confirms it is working with the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office in an investigation into a former New York State Supreme Court justice. The Sheriff’s Office says this past spring, it was notified of “possible criminal conduct” by former justice Matthew Rosenbaum. Deputies did not elaborate on the “possible criminal conduct” of which it was notified.

NY Congresswoman Claudia Tenney and others have introduced a resolution to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), which was founded on December 1, 1941, to assist the United States as a civilian defense organization during World War II. The resolution recognizes the historical contributions by the CAP over the course of its 80-year history

A violent domestic dispute in Batavia resulted in multiple felony counts lodged against a man. City police said Michael J. Perkins was arrested following a domestic disturbance on Ellicott Street. During the incident, Perkins allegedly assaulted another person resulting in serious physical injury, took their phone while they were attempting to call 9-1-1 and applied pressure to their neck, causing difficulty breathing. Perkins then fled the residence prior to patrols arrival. He was later charged with felony assault with serious injury, felony grand larceny and lesser counts including criminal mischief and criminal obstruction of breathing.

NY Congresswoman Claudia Tenney wrote a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland seeking answers on why the Department of Justice abruptly terminated ongoing investigations into nursing home deaths in the states of New York, Michigan, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Tenney said she continues to fight for the thousands of families who were cut off from their loved ones in long-term care facilities during the pandemic. She has introduced the Essential Caregivers Act (H.R.3733), a bipartisan bill that ensures individuals living in long-term care facilities, including nursing and group homes, are never cut off from essential caregivers in the event of a future public health emergency.

Amid lawmakers’ calls to release funds from New York’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), Gov. Andrew Cuomo Monday announced a streamlined application process. The new ERAP process relaxes documentation standards for both tenants and landlords effective today, according to the governor’s office. Over 1,000 dedicated staff and 350 volunteers are also slated to help clear close to 5,000 pending cases by next Tuesday.

New York’s COVID positivity rate has jumped to 2.28%. 85 people have been admitted to a hospital or the ICU and there have been four more deaths. The WNY rate has risen to 2.18%. It has jumped to 1.90% in the Finger Lakes Region, which includes Genesee County.

Two people face charges after a victim was struck in the head with a beer bottle on Bloomingdale Road. Jarrot Coniglio was charged with felony assault, criminal possession of a weapon, resisting arrest and obstruction. In addition, Justice Conoglio was also charged with obstruction and resisting arrest. Deputies said both suspects became hostile and combative towards deputies. K-9 Frankie assisted in the apprehension of both people. Justice was released on his own recognizance and ten turned over to Wyoming County deputies on a warrant. Jarrot was remanded to jail on $5,000 bail.

Six United Way chapters officially announced their merger and the creation of a powerful and aligned organization: United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes, serving the counties of Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Wayne and Wyoming. The organization, which altogether raises and distributes more than $30 million annually, now encompasses 5,144 square miles of rural, suburban and urban neighborhoods, and brings together more than 50,000 donors, 1,300 workplaces, 1,000 nonprofit partners, and thousands of volunteers to address the region’s biggest human services challenges.

There is concern among wildlife experts throughout the Northeast about a mysterious disease that killing songbirds and while there’s no confirmation that the unknown pathogen has reached Genesee County it has been reported in the Southern Tier. Close enough that bird lovers might want to exercise caution, which could include taking down birdfeeders. Birdfeeders and birdbaths are places that encourage songbirds to congregate, which could help spread the disease. The Department of Environmental Conservation is asking state residents to report any unusual bird deaths.

The spread of COVID-19 is back on the rise across New York with the daily statewide infection rate surpassing 2-percent.
The Finger Lakes Region – which includes Genesee County – has a seven-day average positivity rate of .5-percent, among the lowest in the state.
Officials believe the new variants of the virus are what’s causing an increase in infections. Anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated against COVID-19 can check out the state’s “Am I Eligible” website or call 1-833-NYS-4-VAX to find an immunization clinic.

Gasoline prices in Batavia are unchanged from a week ago.
The average cost for a gallon of regular here is $3.17, the same as last week.
A year ago, at this time the average prices for a gallon of gas in Batavia was $2.24.

A suspect arrested for allegedly shoplifting at Walmart over a three-day period. 31-year-old Antonio Goodson of State Street, Batavia, is charged with three counts of petit larceny. Deputies say Goodson boosted Walmart merchandise last Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

If you use the Center Street Parking lot downtown this one is for you.
The lot will be closed for milling operations this Wednesday.
Once the milling is done the lot will be re-paved, an operation that could take a few weeks.
However, the city says during repaving the lot will remain opened with sections coned for pavement repairs and re-surfacing.

Alianna Baris

It is Veteran’s Day at the Genesee County Fair.
The market auction goat show is scheduled for 4 this afternoon.
4-H livestock judging is scheduled for 6 this evening.

Yesterday at the fair: Alianna Baris was crowned Fair Queen.
Alianna is a 2021 graduate of LeRoy High School.