Local News

A warning from the sheriff’s office to beware of a scam to rip you off.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a reported larceny that occurred earlier this month. Deputies say the victim was contacted by an unknown person claiming to be a relative who needed money for bail.
The victim went along with the scam and soon a courier, claiming to work for the relative’s lawyer, was sent to their home to pick-up the money.
A short while later, another call was made saying the bail was increased and again arrangements were made to send a courier for more cash.
The sheriff’s office say they are aware of two other similar incidents in our area.
Deputies say do not enter into a financial transaction with people you don’t know.

Genesee County reporting 16 new positive cases of COVID-19. Two of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. Seven of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic started last year, the U.S. State Department has added Canada to its “do not travel” list. Officials are urging Americans to avoid visiting the country due to the high number of coronavirus cases there. Earlier this week, it was announced the border between the U.S. and Canada will remain closed until at least May 21st. Americans can still travel to Canada by air, however they’re being asked to quarantine for two weeks upon arriving.

Starting today, New Yorkers aged 60 and older no longer need to schedule an appointment to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. That’s because they’ll be able to walk in to any one of 16 state-run clinics and get a shot. Governor Cuomo said this week that making it easier to get vaccinated will help the state put an end to the coronavirus crisis.

Batavia Police Dept. and the DEA will hold a drug and used needle collection.
It’s tomorrow 10am to 2pm, in the Alva Place Parking lot.
Expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs can be dropped off.
It’s free, anonymous with no questions asked.

All individuals released on parole could vote in New York under a bill that passed the Assembly this week and is now on its way to the governor. The legislation passed the Senate last month, and will next head to the desk of Gov. Andrew Cuomo. The governor has 10 days to sign or veto a bill once it hits his desk before it becomes law. Currently, people who are released on parole and under community supervision for felonies have to wait months or years to vote until they’ve been discharged from parole or reached the end of supervision.

New York officials have provided an updated on COVID vaccination efforts. As of Thursday, officials say more than 177,000 shots were administered.

Genesee County reporting 16 new positive cases of COVID-19. Two of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. Seven of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. Orleans County reports 11 new positive cases. Wyoming County reports 15 new cases.

Genesee County’s unemployment rate for March was 6.1 percent, according to the NYS Department of Labor. That’s a percentage point higher than the previous year. While pandemic-related layoffs started in late March 2020, the reported unemployment was 5.2 percent. The layoffs didn’t hit the books through unemployment claims until April when the rate jumped to 15.9 percent, the highest local unemployment rate since 1990. In May, the rate was 11.1 percent and the rate has remained in single digits since then.

Registration is still open for the free local electronics recycling event in Batavia on May 15. The Brockport-based electronics recycling company Sunnking is handling the recycling. This year’s theme is “Restore Our Earth.” Due to coronavirus health and safety protocols, residents will be REQUIRED to register online for a drop-off time slot. Register online at sunnking.com/events. Registration closes when time slots are booked up or by 4 p.m. the day before the event. You must register to print out a ticket to take to the event in order to get in.

New York’s COVID-19 7-day average positivity rate is at 2.76 percent, the lowest it has been since November 10, 2020. Meanwhile the region’s hospitalizations, 540, is the lowest it has been since November 30, 2020. In the Finger Lakes Region, there are 219 COVID patients currently in the hospital.

All schools in New York may resume section 6 wrestling according to the state health department on May 3^rd.  The only sport that is not allowed to return to schools thus far is indoor track and field.  Section 6 President Brett Banker says that Section 6 has proven that we are committed to providing opportunities for our athletes within the guidelines set forth to us by local health departments.  Erie County will not be resuming wrestling.

Genesee counties unemployment rate for March has been released and it is 6.1 percent.  Last march it was 5.2 percent with the pandemic and shutdowns coming in at halfway through the month.  In April of 2020 it was 15.9 percent.  March of 2019 was the lowest unemployment in Genesee county for the last 30 years at 4.6 percent.

The Lilac festival will happen this year in Rochester’s Highland Park but there are some changes.  The festival will be held in May over 3 weekends starting May 7th instead of over 10 days.  There will be no live music on the lawn instead ticketed music under a tent will be offered for 20 dollars a ticket.  Beer, wine and food tastings will also happen under that tent.  The flowers and vendors will be mostly unchanged.

COVID-19 has claimed another life in Genesee County.
The health department reports a person over the age of 65 has succumbed to the virus.
Just four new positive cases were confirmed on Wednesday.
Seven of the current positive cases are hospitalized.
In Orleans County, 20 new cases were reported; Seven additional cases were confirmed in Wyoming County.

A grand jury has indicted the principal of Northwood Elementary School on 25 charges.
Prosecutors say Kirk Ashton sexually abused multiple boys at the Hilton school over a period of several years.
It was also announced yesterday that two more alleged victims have come forward in the case.
Ashton has been on administrative leave from his job since April 8th. Anyone with information is asked to call State Police.

Starting tomorrow, New Yorkers 60 and older won’t need an appointment if they want to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
That’s because they’ll be able to walk-in and get vaccinated at 16 mass-vaccination sites run by the state, including ones at the Rochester Dome Arena and former Kodak Hawkeye parking lot. Folks will still need to bring identification and be able to provide health insurance information. Wait times at each location are going to vary depending on how many people show up.

The Town of Batavia Planning Board will be adding a “public comments” segment to its meetings. In response to Planning Board Member Don Partridge’s inquiry into the procedure for conducting an annual review of Area 51 Motocross, the board has agreed to give residents time at the beginning of each meeting to bring up pertinent issues.

The Buffalo Sabres will be back on home ice tonight as they look to rebound from a tough loss. Buffalo was held scoreless for the eighth time this season in their two-to-nothing defeat at the hands of the Boston Bruins Tuesday night.
The Sabres have already been eliminated from playoff contention,

The Town of Batavia Planning Board will be adding a “public comments” segment to its meetings. In response to Planning Board Member Don Partridge’s inquiry into the procedure for conducting an annual review of Area 51 Motocross, the board has agreed to give residents time at the beginning of each meeting to bring up pertinent issues.

A new service for people 55 and older is available in Genesee County. Lifespan’s Community Care Connections service helps older adults navigate health care and supports at home. Nurses meet patients at medical appointments, communicate with doctors’ offices and ensure the correct medications are being taken at home. Our social workers also help connect older adults to help at home and governmental benefits. Lifespan is a regional nonprofit based in Rochester dedicated to providing information, guidance and services that help older adults take on the challenges of longer life.

COVID-19 has claimed another life in Genesee County. The health department would only say the victim was over age 65. Meanwhile, just four new positive cases were confirmed on Wednesday. Seven of the current positive cases are hospitalized. However, in Orleans County, 20 new cases were reported; Seven additional cases were confirmed in Wyoming County.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has directed flags on State government builds to be flown at half-staff beginning today and through interment in recognition of Spc. Abigail Jenks, a native of Saratoga County, who died Monday following a training exercise at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. The 20-year-old died following a Blackhawk helicopter static line jump training exercise at Fort Bragg. The incident is under investigation.

The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee announced that Operation Safe Stop—an enforcement and education campaign designed to deter drivers from illegally passing stopped school buses—will be held today.  Law enforcement throughout the state will be participating. Drivers who pass school buses that are stopped and flashing their red lights will be ticketed. Surveys show that approximately 50,000 motorists illegally pass school buses statewide each school day.

Jason Molino is returning to the GLOW region. Molino, the City of Batavia manager for 11 years prior to leaving in January 2018 to become administrator for Tompkins County, has accepted the executive director post with the Livingston County Water and Sewer Authority based in Lakeville. Molino said he was looking forward to “a little more balance” in his life as he moves closer to extended family members who live in Western New York.

A 22-year-old Wellsville man is headed to state prison for his role in the murder last March of Nicholas Burdge in his North Main Street home. During a 14-minute court appearance Wednesday, Allegany County Judge Thomas Brown sentenced Brandon J. Poehmel to serve 15 years in prison, followed by five years of post-release parole supervision for his guilty plea to first-degree manslaughter. Poehmel was dressed in orange prison clothing with his hands and feet shackled. Burdge had been tied to a chair and savagely beaten, repeatedly. He was also cut repeatedly. His body was later dumped in the Genesee River, where it was discovered the following day. In a Victim Impact Statement written by Burdge’s mother, she said “the system clearly failed my son in giving eight monsters 16 years or less.” She said she prays that Poehmel “seeks God.” While the statement was read, Poehmel stared straight ahead. Speaking to Poehmel, Judge Brown said “you’ve caused hurt and suffering. The sentence is appropriate.” In total, eight people were charged with Burdge’s murder. Seven have taken or plan to take plea deals. Several are now in state prison. Howard Burroughs of Wellsville has rejected a deal and a trial is pending.

State Police have arrested Joshua Bennett for first-degree Burglary, Menacing of a Police Officer and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 3rd Degree. Bennett was released from Strong Hospital and was processed at the State Police Station in Rochester and taken to the Monroe County Jail and will be held on a New York State Parole Warrant. According to a press release, Bennett was a parole absconder who armed himself with a butcher knife then allegedly held a woman at knife point before advancing at police.  The 37-year-old was shot by a state trooper, who is assigned to the US Marshal Regional Fugitive Task Force.

Jason Molino when he was city manager

Tompkins County Administrator Jason Molino is leaving.

Molino, who’s been county administrator since January 2018, will be joining the Livingston County Sewer and Water Authority as its new executive director.  In a letter to county staff, Molino describes the decision to leave as difficult but one that’ll give him a better balance between work and life.  Molino was a former Batavia City Manager, serving here for over 10 years.  An interim county administrator will be named in a few days, and the search for a permanent replacement will begin later this year.  Molino will leave Tompkins County at the end of May.

Tops Friendly Markets is partnering with Convergent Energy and Power to make more than 75 stores green.  They are planning on reducing their carbon footprint and the solar solution by Convergent Energy and Power works whether the sun is shining or not.  So far Tops has not announced which stores will be getting the solar upgrade.

The Buffalo Sabres were shut out 2 to 0 last night against the Boston Bruins.  This is the 8^th time this season that the Sabres have been shutout.  Buffalo hosts Boston two more times this week on Thursday and Friday.

Some public opposition has been expressed over a proposed outdoor shooting range on Harloff Road in the Town of Batavia.
Developer Brandon Lewis, who owns the Firing Pin range in Bergen needs a special use permit in order to proceed with his Harloff Road project.
Lewis is proposing more than a shooting range.
Resident Rich Schildwaster says that’s where his concern comes in:

Other residents spoke out against the noise of the range.
The public hearing was conducted by the Town of Batavia Planning Board. No action was taken on the proposed project.

Genesee County reports 21 new positive cases of COVID-19. Twenty-seven of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. Seven of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.

The Rotary Club of Batavia has donated an AED defibrillator to the Salvation Army. The 15-hundred dollar device is used on persons in cardiac arrest.
Todd Rapp says in the time he has been with Salvation Army there have been at least two instances where s defibrillator could have been used.
The Batavia City Fire Department provided the Army with training on how to use the device.

As expected, the border between the United States and Canada is going to remain closed for a bit longer. Yesterday, U.S. Customs and Border Protection said the shutdown will stay in place until at least May 21st. Officials say there are still lingering concerns about the number of COVID-19 cases in both countries. The ban still allows Americans to travel to Canada by air, however they’re being asked to quarantine for two weeks upon arriving.

Members of the Assembly Judiciary Committee are scheduled to meet today to discuss the impeachment inquiry involving Governor Cuomo. The Committee Chair says over 100 tips have been received as the investigation into the governor moves forward. The governor has come under fire lately after several women came forward claiming he sexually harassed them, allegations that he has denied.

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) have first dose Pfizer vaccination clinics with appointments available targeting those who are 16 and older and open for any New York State individuals, who reside, work or study in the state.

Currently in New York, being fully vaccinated will begin to offer opportunities that have been limited for the past year. Anyone who is fully vaccinated (2 weeks after the J&J vaccine or the second dose of Pfizer and Moderna) will be able to participate in various activities without having to be tested for entry for events such as professional sports, weddings with over 100 guests, proms, graduations and more.  Also, when fully vaccinated, the individual will not have to quarantine if they are exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.  Most importantly, you are protecting your health along with others you come in contact with.

“We have clinics scheduled on Thursday, April 22^nd at the Ridgeway Fire Hall, Route 104, Medina; and on Saturday, April 24^th at the Athletic Center at GCC Batavia Campus Center,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health.  “These clinics are open to anyone who is 16 and older.  We want to see all of these clinics filled up with those who can also commit to returning for the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine 21 days later.”

Visit the vaccination web page at .  Choose either the GCC Pfizer Clinic or the Orleans Pfizer Clinic button and follow the directions.   Keep the link handy, as there are Moderna clinics scheduled on April 27^th at Ridgeway Fire Hall and on the 28^th at GCC.  The buttons are live when we have that particular vaccine available.  If the clinic is full or we do

not have vaccine, it will show ‘No Appointments Available.’  Please share this information with family, friends, co-workers and social groups.  For those who do not have internet they can call the GO Health Vaccine Registration Help Lines:

Genesee:  585-815-7168

Orleans:  585-589-3170

These lines are ONLY to make vaccine appointments, are not able to answer COVID-related questions, and are not associated with either Health Department. 

If you are interested in making an appointment to get your COVID-19 vaccination, now is the time to do it locally!

Batavia-based troopers continue to investigate an Orleans County cold case. On October 29, 1983, a body was found by a hunter off the shoulder of State Route 63 in the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, in the town of Shelby. The victim was found in a severely decomposed state and was believed to have been there for several months. In 1984, the Center of Human Identification was used by state police to make a facial reconstruction from the remains. In October of 2013, the still unidentified body was exhumed and DNA testing was performed. Through a multi-step investigation, the body was identified as Shari L. Ball. The 20-year-old was reported missing by her family in June 1983 to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office in Florida. She had told her family that she was going to New York State with an unknown friend to pursue a modeling career. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Batavia.

Genesee County reports 21 new positive cases of COVID-19. Twenty-seven of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. Seven of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. Orleans County reports nine new cases and Wyoming County reports four more COVID cases.

The Batavia Rotary Club has donated an AED defibrillator to the local center of The Salvation Army.  The Salvation Army regularly serves community residents at its center on East Main Street. After two recent incidents when patrons at the center were stricken with health issues, the Salvation Army leadership realized the need to have a defibrillator on the premises in order to assist visitors in a timely manner. The City Fire Department provided training to Salvation Army staff members.

With opioid overdose deaths increasing during the pandemic, the Drug Enforcement Administration is holding its 20th Take Back Day on Saturday. DEA’s October 2020 Take Back Day brought in a record-high amount of expired, unused prescription medications, with the public turning in close to 500 tons of unwanted drugs. Over the 10-year span of Take Back Day, DEA has brought in more than 6,800 tons of prescription drugs. With studies indicating a majority of abused prescription drugs come from family and friends, including from home medicine cabinets, clearing out unused medicine is essential.

On the 51st anniversary of the first Earth Day, the latest poll from the Siena College Research Institute says that 64 percent of New Yorkers are very concerned about water pollution, 61 percent with air pollution, 60 percent with deforestation, and 56 percent are very concerned about climate change. The research institute adds that large majorities support redesigning cities to be more pedestrian friendly, promote the widespread use of electric cars, have New York produce 100 percent of its electricity with zero-emissions by 2040 and the U.S. rejoining the Paris Climate Accords.

Did you receive a text message about a package delivery?  You aren’t alone.  Police are warning of a texting scam that asks you to follow a link to receive a package and is being used to steal personal information.  This is a form of what is called “smishing” where a thief sends a text purporting to be from a business or bank or agency in order to trick people into giving them information.  Authorities are saying if you get this text to delete it and not follow the link.

The Canada US border will remain closed at least until the 21^st of May due to COVID.  All non essential travel remains banned and has been since March of 2020.  On April 11 dozens of families separated for more than a year by the border closure protested to have families considered essential, so they can travel to see one another but the Canadian Government refuses to open the border.

Genesee county has launched a new website which will allow property owners to get their assessment data online.  This is called the PROS or Property Record Online System.  The online assessment roll system will no longer be used.  Property owners can find the new tool at geneseecounty.prosgar.com or follow the link on wbtai.com.

A Genesee County Grand Jury has indicted Juan M. Mendez of Holley for first-degree rape, a Class B violent felony.
Lawmen say that Mendez engaged in sexual intercourse with another person who was incapable of consent by reason of being physically helpless. The victim was allegedly highly intoxicated. The attack occurred on September 4th at Genesee Community College Batavia Campus.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Genesee and surrounding counties.
It takes effect at midnight and runs until 2 tomorrow afternoon.
Total snow accumulations of 3-6 inches possible.
This will be a heavy, wet snow, and may result in isolated power outages and downed tree limbs.

Capacity limits are going to be expanding soon at several businesses and venues statewide. Beginning April 26th, attendance at museums and zoos can increase from the current 33-percent to 50-percent.
Also, the capacity limit for movie theaters will expand from 25-percent to 33-percent.
And beginning May 19th, arenas can sell 25-percent of tickets for sporting events and shows, up from 10-percent.
Officials say as the spread of COVID-19 slows, the state will be able to open up more.

The state Attorney General’s office has been asked to look into Governor Cuomo’s alleged use of state resources to help write his book on how he handled the COVID-19 crisis. The request was made by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, who recently sent Attorney General Letitia James a letter requesting an investigation begin.

A new poll shows support for Governor Cuomo is continuing to fall among New Yorkers. According to Siena College, only 40-percent of the people surveyed had a favorable opinion of the governor, down from 56-percent in February. But when asked if the governor should resign due to the multiple scandals involving his administration, 51-percent of people said they believe he should stay in office.

A Genesee County Grand Jury has indicted Juan M. Mendez of Holley for first-degree rape, a Class B violent felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 4 at Genesee Community College in the Town or Batavia, Mendez engaged in sexual intercourse with another person who was incapable of consent by reason of being physically helpless. Mendez was also indicted for the crimes of first-degree sexual abuse, a Class D violent felony and third-degree sexual abuse.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s book about his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic may be the source of a new criminal investigation by the New York attorney general’s office. In response to allegations that the governor used state resources to produce and promote his book, state Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli sent a letter to state Attorney General Letitia James requesting a criminal investigation into Cuomo’s actions. DiNapoli’s office released the letter, dated April 13, on Monday. It authorizes the attorney general to investigate whether the process of writing and promoting the book violated state laws. James’ office said it received the referral letter from the state comptroller but didn’t comment further.

Here’s the latest on the New York State COVID vaccination efforts. Officials say more than 131,000 have been administered across the state’s distribution network since Sunday and nearly 1.4 million doses have been administered over the past seven days. The Finger Lakes Region has surpassed 358,000 people who have finished the complete vaccine series.

A Grand Jury has handed up a seven-count indictment against Rachelle N. Laney. The top count is criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 10 in the Town of Le Roy, Laney knowingly and unlawfully possessed a narcotic drug — fentanyl — with intent to sell it.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley is railing against the Assembly Majority after they tabled a bill he sponsored during a Ways and Means Committee meeting that would have exempted veterans over the age of 85 from paying state income taxes. The cost to the state in lost revenue from excluding veterans over 85 years old from state income taxes is estimated to be about $6 million. Hawley called the move shameful.

The proper way to dispose of medications will be the focus of Thursday’s quarterly meeting of the Genesee-Orleans-Wyoming Opioid Task Force. The meeting will be livestreamed via Zoom, starting at 9:30 a.m. It is expected to last for an hour. Scott Wilson, superintendent of the Orleans County Jail, has agreed to make a presentation on National Drug Take Back Day, which is scheduled for this Saturday, with locations in the three counties. This meeting is open to the public and the community is invited to join and share any questions they may have.

Staff training will impact some services Wednesday and Thursday at the Batavia City Clerk’s office. For those two days, the office will be unable to issue marriage licenses, copies of birth and death certificates, new dog licenses and fishing or hunting licenses.

Governor Andrew Cuomo’s favorability, job performance and re-elect ratings all continued to head in a downward trend. At the same time, a majority of New Yorkers continue to say both that he should not resign and that he can effectively do his job as governor…that’s according to a new Siena college poll. By a 44-22 percent margin, voters think Cuomo has committed sexual harassment, with 34 percent undecided.

Governor Cuomo is dropping in popularity according to a Sienna Poll.  For the month of February Cuomo had a 56 percent approval rating and it dropped to 43 percent for March and April.  Overall voters approve of his handling of the pandemic. The rate of 60-32 percent is practically unchanged from 60-33 percent the previous month.  Most voters think Governor Cuomo committed sexual harassment, by a 44-22 percent margin. Thirty-four percent are undecided.  Cuomo told reporters today that he will not hold briefings with reporters present for the time being because of covid concerns.

Governor Cuomo announced changes to the tax rates for this year.  Income tax rates will be lowered for taxpayers filing jointly in the $43,000-$161,550 income bracket, from 6.09% to 5.97% – and from 6.41% to 6.33% for citizens jointly filing in the bracket of $161,550-323,200.  Additionally, the state will create a Middle Class Property Tax Credit, which the governor said will give up to $382 million in savings for more than a million homeowners with incomes up to $250,000. This is in addition to the permanent property tax cap.

The Muckdogs are hosting Challenger Baseball on June 19^th at 1pm.  Challenger Baseball is a community program sponsored by the YMCA and Arc of Genesee Orleans that provides children in the area with disabilities the opportunity to play organized baseball. With the support of volunteers trained in disability awareness and sensitivity, athletes who range from ages 5-21 can have the unique opportunity to play the sports they love.  The game will take place at Dwyer stadium and Muckdogs players, coaches and personnel will be on the field assisting.  The game will be free to attend.

The Buffalo Sabres had a busy weekend with 2 games against the Pittsburg Penguins.  On Saturday the Sabres lost 3 to 2 and were knocked out of playoff contention.  On Sunday Buffalo beat the Penguins 4 to 2 for their 12^th win during this season.  Buffalo will be back on the ice against the Boston Bruins Tuesday Night at 6:30.

Starting today, bars and restaurants across the state will be able to serve customers for a bit longer.
That’s because curfew at those establishments is being pushed back from 11 p-m until midnight. And, catered events such as weddings must now wrap up by one a-m instead of midnight.
Capacity limits will remain in place and customers still have to follow health and safety protocols. Today’s change comes just a couple of weeks after curfews were lifted at places such as gyms, movie theaters and casinos.

28 year old Andre Roberts was patronizing a bar on School Street well within the curfew limits.
As he got up to leave he allegedly forgot on thing…he didn’t pay.
He’ll be in City Court tomorrow.

Genesee County continues to be in a state of moderate drought. So are Wyoming and Orleans Counties. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 25% of New York is classified in moderate drought while more than 70% of the state is considered abnormally dry.

After rising and falling for weeks, gas prices are remaining pretty consistent in Western New York.
According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular in Batavia is now $2.85. That’s the same as what drivers were paying last week and is a penny less than this time one month ago.

The COVID-19 positivity rate in Genesee County rate dropped to 2.2%, the lowest since November.
In the Finger Lakes Region as a whole, there are 199 people hospitalized with coronavirus.

The Royalton-Hartland school district has come under scrutiny for its Information Technology Contingency Planning. According to a state audit summary, the board and district officials have not developed and adopted a comprehensive written information technology (IT) contingency plan. The district pays $10,500 for central site infrastructure support, which includes a disaster recovery plan template, a key component of an IT contingency plan. Although the district paid for a template, officials did not obtain it. Important financial and other data could be lost, or suffer a disruption to operations. The District serves the Towns of Hartland, Lockport and Royalton in Niagara County, the Town of Alabama in Genesee County, and the Towns of Ridgeway and Shelby in Orleans County. In response, the District said it generally agrees with the audit findings and will develop a comprehensive corrective action plan.

Court action is pending for an Akron man involved in a collision on West Main Street Road in Batavia. Sheriff’s deputies say they arrested 30-year-old Johnny Early Anthony of Knapp Road. He was charged with driving while intoxicated, moving from a lane unsafely and not having a license. No injuries were report. He’ll appear in Town of Batavia court May 24^th.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos announced that spring turkey season opens May 1, in all parts of Upstate New York, north of the Bronx-Westchester County boundary. In addition, DEC’s annual youth turkey hunting weekend will take place April 24 & 25. The youth turkey hunt for junior hunters aged 12 to 15 is open in all parts of Upstate New York and Suffolk County. Last year, turkey hunters took approximately 21,500 birds in New York during the spring season, an increase of about 25 percent from 2019.

Genesee County continued to be in a state of moderate drought. So are Wyoming and Orleans Counties. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 25% of New York is classified in moderate drought while more than 70% of the state is considered abnormally dry.

Tax collections for New York’s Fiscal Year 2020-21 totaled $82.4 billion — $3 billion higher than forecast by the state Division of the Budget. However, Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said total tax collections were $513.3 million lower than the previous year. He says New York faces a long road to recovery, and the state’s economy still faces serious challenges, both in the short-term and long-term. DiNaploi noted that better-than-anticipated tax collections, federal resources and new revenues in the recently adopted budget allow for important investments in critical programs and services, but state policymakers must ensure that spending commitments are in line with recurring revenue sources.

New York will require Internet service providers to give high-speed Internet access to low-income households at an affordable cost. The new law requires all ISPs to offer high-speed Internet to low-income households at a cost of $15 per month. High-speed Internet will include the Internet access itself, as well as any equipment such as a modem and router.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo Sunday announced that the COVID-19 positivity rate dropped to 2.35%, the lowest since November 7. In the Finger Lakes Region, there are 199 people hospitalized with another 346 in Western New York.

Rochester has earned a distinction as the number 1 best city to live in post pandemic in the northeast.  Business Insider compiled the list and judged based on ability to work from home, housing affordability and cost of living among other factors.  Rochester came in 7^th overall for the whole country.

Missing 14 year old Elizabeth Jones has been located and returned home safely.  She went missing on Wednesday and Batavia Police were asking the community for help finding her. They say that tips from the community lead them to her.

Batavia Police are asking the community for any information on an accident that occurred March 17^th on Norris Ave.  The accident involved a Doordash driver who was operating a dark colored older model compact truck.  If you have any information call 5853456444 or email officer Perkins at aperkins@batavianewyork.com.

COVID Update:  From Friday at 4pm Genesee county has 17 new cases and 19 people have recovered.  1 of the new cases is at the Grand Rehab and Nursing Center.  We are saddened to report the death of a community member from COVID.  Orleans county has 16 new cases and 9 people have recovered.  1 of the new cases is a resident at Orchard Rehab and Nursing Center.  There are 86 active cases in Genesee county and 74 in Orleans.  Genesee county has nearly 14 thousand people who have completed their vaccine series and Orleans county has 8 thousand people who have had both shots.  In New York State 26.4 percent of the population have had both vaccine doses.  New York is 11th in the country in rate of vaccination.

Next Saturday is Earth Day and the Ellicott Trail needs some TLC.  From 9am till its done volunteers are needed to do Earth Day Cleanup on the trail.  Gloves, trash bags and a trail assignment will be given out to complete the 5 miles of the trail.  If you would like to volunteer but cannot attend the Earth Day Cleanup, please sign up through “Friends of Ellicott Trail” with John Roche from Adam Miller Toy and Bicycle at: adammiller2@verizon.net or go to their website.

For the second year in a row the Stafford Historical Society has announced that the Taste of Stafford will not be held this year due to COVID concerns.  According to their statement “The Taste of Stafford, started in 2005, was usually held in Ilette Park in July. We usually worry about the weather, but now we have more to consider in light of the coronavirus pandemic.”

St Paul Lutheran School is doing 2 fundraisers the first is on Wednesday with Batavia’s Original from 4 to 9pm.  Order between those times and a percentage of the sales will benefit the Tuition Assistance account for the school.  The second is a hanging basket fundraiser.  Buy a coupon from the school for 22 dollars and use them at Delre’s Greenhouse for a flower and color of your choice between May 15^th and May 28^th.

Did you get both your COVID shots yet or have an appointment to get them?  You aren’t done yet.  Modern and Pfizer CEO’s have announced booster shots for both vaccines that will need to be administered within 12 months of getting the second shot.  Researchers in Rochester have found both Pfizer and Moderna vaccines to be over 90 percent effective in preventing the coronavirus over the course of six months and are studying efficacy over 9 months.  University of Rochester Medical Center has begun testing booster shots in a select group of participants who took part in the initial Pfizer trial there.  Rollout for the general population is expected to begin in the fall.

Governor Cuomo announced a new law today that requires internet providers to provide access to high speed internet for low income families for 15 dollars a month.  Cuomo signed the Affordable Broadband Bill into law at the Northland Workforce Training Center in Buffalo.  High-speed Internet will include the Internet access itself, as well as any equipment such as a modem and router. This applies to companies including Spectrum, Altice, Verizon, Frontier, Windstream, and Greenlight Networks.  No word yet on when this goes into effect.

COVID Update: Genesee county has 10 new cases and 8 people have recovered.  Orleans county has 14 new cases and 9 people have recovered.  There are 86 active cases in Genesee county and 76 in Orleans.  Genesee county has nearly 14 thousand people who have completed their vaccine series and Orleans county has 8 thousand people who have had both shots.  In New York State 26.4 percent of the population have had both vaccine doses.  New York is 11^th in the country in rate of vaccination.

On Sunday April 25^th Los Samaritanos and the Country Neighbors churches of the Presbytery of Genesee Valley would like to invite anyone who wishes to help to come to the North Bergen Presbyterian Church to put together bags of comfort items for released detainees from the Buffalo Federal Detention center.  The bags are basic necessities and other useful items for the newly freed.  The packing party starts at 12:30 pm.  They are also collecting supplies.  They need, backpacks, warm clothes, snacks, travel size toiletries, flashlights, water bottles, large envelopes and 20 dollar bills.

The Buffalo Sabres beat the Washington Capitals 5 to 2 last night.  Their next game is on Saturday at 3 versus the Pittsburg Penguins.

Jared “Jake” Taft

Alexander Central Schools have a new superintendent.
He is Jared “Jake” Taft.
If his name sounds familiar, Taft has served as interim superintendent for Alexander since last September. Prior to that, Taft served as principal of Alexander Elementary.
He began his teaching career 20 years ago in Brooklyn, New York.

Elizabeth Jones

Batavia Police asking for the public’s help in finding a missing 14-year-old girl.
Elizabeth Jones was last seen Wednesday in Batavia.
She may now be in the Buffalo or Rochester.
Elizabeth is approximately 5’ 4”, 130 lbs, and has blonde hair.
Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to call the Batavia Police Department at (585) 345-6350 or the NYS Missing Persons Clearinghouse at 1-800-346-3543.

The Genesee County Local Drug Task Force reels in a Niagara Falls man. 30 year old LeRoy Thornton III is suspected of dealing crack cocaine in and around the Town of Batavia.
He is facing felony charges, but at his arraignment in Genesee County Court, he was released on his own recognizance.

Genesee County reports ten new positive cases of COVID-19. Three people from the group have been hospitalized. Orleans County reports 14 new cases with three people hospitalized. In Wyoming County, nine new cases were confirmed with 113 people in mandatory quarantine and 38 people in isolation.

More than 50 percent of New Yorkers 18 years of age and older have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and more than one in three in the same age group have been fully vaccinated.
More than 1.5 million doses have been administered over the past week. Here in the Finger Lakes Region, more than 337,000 people have been completely vaccinated.

Genesee County reports ten new positive cases of COVID-19. Three people from the group have been hospitalized. Orleans County reports 14 new cases with three people hospitalized. In Wyoming County, nine new cases were confirmed with 113 people in mandatory quarantine and 38 people in isolation.

More than 50 percent of New Yorkers 18 years of age and older have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and more than one in three in the same age group have been fully vaccinated. Officials report this morning that more than 12.5 million doses of the vaccine have been administered in New York State. More than 1.5 million doses have been administered over the past seven days.

COVID-19 hospitalizations in New York State have dropped to under 4,000 for the first time since December 1^st. The number was pegged at 3,963. The statewide positivity rate dropped to 2.76 percent, its lowest since November 21. The statewide 7-day average positivity rate also declined to 3.05 percent, the lowest since November 25.

The Batavia Police Department is seeking public assistance in locating a missing 14-year-old girl. Elizabeth Jones was last seen Wednesday in Batavia. She may now be in the Buffalo or Rochester area and is believed to be with a male. She was last seen wearing a red and black hooded sweatshirt, sweatpants and carrying a blue and black duffle bag. Elizabeth is approximately 5′ 04″, 130 lbs, has piercings on both sides of her nose, and has blonde hair.

Acting on an Indictment Warrant, the Genesee County Local Drug Task Force, with help from the Niagara County Probation Department, arrested 30-year-old Leroy Thornton III of Niagara Falls. The arrest concluded an investigation into the transportation, sale and possession of crack cocaine in and around the town of Batavia. He was charged with felony counts of criminal sale and possession of a controlled substance. He was arraigned in Genesee County court and released on his own recognizance. The Genesee County DA’s office assisted in the investigation.

A former Webster Central School District coach who was accused – and later acquitted – of raping a student is now suing the district, as well as the Town of Webster and its police department. Kali Watkins, a former girls basketball coach, had been accused of raping a 14-year-old student in a locker room in January 2017. A jury found him not guilty in August 2019. In the lawsuit filed this week, the plaintiff and his attorneys paint Watkins as the target of an investigation driven by personal animosity by those in the Webster Police Department and the school district for which he worked, alleging his coaching style, grudges over personal relationships and racism may all have played roles in what unfolded.

A new website has been recently designed and launched which will allow property owners in Genesee County to access their assessment data online.  All municipalities in Genesee County will no longer be using the existing OARS (Online Assessment Roll System) website and instead will now be utilizing the new PROS website:  https://geneseecounty.prosgar.com.

“The local assessors in the county which comprises the Genesee County Assessors Association wanted to create an easy and quick way for property owners to access their assessment information and we are confident this new site will accomplish that,” said Kevin Andrews, Director, Genesee County Department of Real Property Tax Services.

The new website gives property owners in Genesee County the ability to conduct a basic “Quick Property Search” as well as an “Advanced Property Search” in order to find their properties as well as any other properties within the county that matches their search criteria.  Assessment information displayed on the website includes structure information such as square footage, building style, and year built as well as information regarding exemptions, sales, and more.

“All municipalities in the county have already made the move to the new website,” Andrews continued.  “Eventually the current OARS website will no longer be available so we want to get the word out to our property owners about the change, which we believe will be a better resource tool for them.”

With New York ranking 12th among the states with the best school systems and some schools in the state holding online-only learning due to COVID-19, the personal-finance website WalletHub has released its report on 2021’s Best Public High Schools in New York State. WalletHub compared over 1,200 institutions across 26 key metrics. Two area schools made the top 500 list…Le Roy and Medina.

Teachers at Batavia High School have proposed three new courses that were approved by the city school’s Board of Education this week. The courses, two in Social Studies and one in English will only go forward if students show sufficient interest in taking the elective classes. The new courses are Sports and Race Relations through Digital Media; Law and Justice in America I and II will provide students an overview of the various areas of Civil and Criminal Law in our American legal system and 1960s Literature, Lyrics and Culture.

Southern Tier State Senator Tom O’Mara has introduced legislation that would require Governor Andrew Cuomo to seek the approval of the State Legislature before extending or modifying any of his existing COVID-19 executive orders. O’Mara said that the legislation, known as the “Stop Continuing Unnecessary Orders and Mandates At Once Act,” represents an ongoing effort to restore legislative checks and balances in state government.  It would require the governor to provide a five-day notice to the Legislature for any modification or extension of an existing executive order and provide legislators the opportunity to vote on whether the governor can move forward.

When Genesee Country Village & Museum opens its doors on Saturday, May 8, it will mark the 45th season of connecting visitors with history, art, and nature. Many guests don’t realize that the 68 historic buildings that comprise the picturesque Historic Village were all painstakingly moved there from locations around Western New York. The Museum is also hosting weekly discounted days for seniors and families, to give everyone the opportunity to come out and enjoy a day in the 19th century.

Batavia school district voters will head to the polls May 18^th to cast ballots on the proposed budget adopted earlier this week. The budget doesn’t increase the district’s tax levy over the current budget. With rising property values and other factors, most property owners should see the education portion of their property taxes going down next year. The proposed budget calls for spending a little more than $52 million.

A federal bankruptcy judge in Buffalo has ruled that three debts of former funeral director Michael Tomaszewski cannot be discharged under bankruptcy law. The three debts are part of more than $3.2 million in liabilities Tomaszewski listed when filing for bankruptcy in February 2020. He initially filed for Chapter 11, a reorganization of debts, but changed the filing to a Chapter 7, forgiveness of all debts not covered by available assets, last month. In his ruling, the judge cited a section of federal bankruptcy law that says a debtor cannot discharge any debt that was the result of fraud or misrepresentation. In criminal court this week, Tomaszewski entered a guilty plea to grand larceny, scheme to defraud, offering a false instrument for filing, and untimely burial.

Genesee County reports 15 new COVID-19 cases. Four people are currently hospitalized with virus-related illnesses. Orleans County reports 13 news cases while Wyoming County reports seven new cases.

A Warsaw man is dead after he crashed his ATV early Wednesday. 24-year-old Gregory E. Kersch died when he was trapped underneath the machine on Miller Road near the Railroad Crossing in the Town of Warsaw. Investigators said he struck the railroad crossing signal light post at the railroad crossing.  Gregory Kersch was ejected and the ATV was on top of him.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo says hours for New York’s curfew rule for bars and restaurants amid COVID-19 are being extended. Starting Monday, establishments will be able to remain open until midnight. For months, these establishments could be open no later than 11 p.m. Catered events will also gain an hour of operation, and will be able to run until 1 a.m.

Congressman Chris Jacobs joined a bipartisan group of representatives and senators to call on President Biden to prioritize funding and policies in his budget proposal that bolster domestic semiconductor manufacturing and supply chains. Jacobs says “China is investing billions of dollars into developing this technology and mass manufacturing. We cannot afford to rely on them or other foreign manufacturers.”  Specifically, the letter calls for prioritized investment into initiatives outlined in the CHIPS for America Act that was enacted into law as part of the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act. The legislation creates incentives to support semiconductor research and development and the domestic manufacturing of semiconductors.

A chilling crime-story update from the Southern Tier in Allegany County… A Wellsville teenager is expected to spend the next decade in state prison, under a plea deal, for his role in the savage beating death and torture of 23-year-old Nicholas Burdge inside the victim’s Main Street apartment March 21, 2020. His lifeless body was then dumped into the Genesee River. The teen is one of eight defendants; three have already been sentenced. Justin L. Darden of state Route 417 pled guilty Wednesday afternoon to first-degree Manslaughter, a class B felony. We were the only media in the courtroom. Judge Thomas Brown told Darden that “Youthful Offender status is off the table.” Outside the courtroom, ADA Michael Finn said he was satisfied with the plea. Another defendant, Brandon J. Poemel of Wellsville, is expected to plead guilty next Wednesday to first-degree Manslaughter and will accept a 15-year prison sentence. Howard Burroughs of Wellsville is expected to go to trial.

NY is now shifting its attention to the farmers and food production facilities for vaccines.  The state says it “will coordinate with local health departments and Federally Qualified Health Centers to bring pop-up vaccination sites to workers, including migrant workers, at their places of employment.”  Governor Andrew Cuomo said it is critical to get the vaccine to every part of the state, not just the highly populated areas.

The City of Batavia Fire department responded to a fire at 1 Jerome Place early this morning.  At about 5:12am firefighters arrived at the scene and had the blaze under control by 5:27.  Due to the intensity of the fire, the home received significant smoke damage to the second floor with minimal water damage to the first floor. One animal was rescued by bystanders prior to fire department arrival and all occupants were able to self-escape.

The Town of Batavia Fire Department Inc is doing its 2021 recruitment drive starting April 24^th.  From the 24^th to the 30^th you can call to get a tour of the fire station, speak with a line officer and receive an application packet.  The fire department does accept applications from 16 and 17 year old’s, though if you are 16 to 17 you need an adult to accompany you.  Call 585 344 3284.

The Buffalo Sabres couldn’t hold on to an early lead last night against the Boston Bruins.  The game was lost for the Sabres 3-2 in a shootout.  Rasmus Dahlin and Dylan Cozens scored for Buffalo.   Their next game is against the Washington Capitals on Thursday.

Former Funeral Director Michael Tomaszewski appeared before a judge and admitted he bilked Batavia area families out of more than a half-million dollars.
He pleaded guilty to several felony counts that he miss used funeral pre-payments funds that should have been deposited in trust accounts.
Prosecutors say over 200 local families were impacted by the scam.
Most recently, Tomaszewski was charged with keeping a body in his West Main Street funeral home for two years.
Tomaszewski struck a plea deal and could get up to seven years in prison when he is sentenced July 13th.

Genesee County reports 19 new cases of COVID-19. Six of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. One of the new positive individuals in an inmate at the Genesee County Jail. Orleans County reports 14 new cases. Wyoming County confirms just four additional cases.

Governor Cuomo says the state will start using Johnson and Johnson’s COVID-19 vaccine again once the federal government lifts a pause on its use.
There are concerns surrounding the one-dose shot after a few people who received it had issues with blood clots. The governor says there’s enough Moderna and Pfizer vaccine available at state-run clinics to make sure everyone who has already signed up for an appointment can still get their shot.
The pause on the Johnson and Johnson vaccine is expected to last a few days.

High school football later today on WBTA.
The Oakfield-Alabama-Elba Aggies host York-Pavilion this evening.
Our John Vazquez and Jim Ernst call the action life from Oakfield. Kick-off is 6pm.

Michael Tomaszewski, the former local funeral home owner accused of misusing his client’s deposit money and improperly disposing of human remains, has pleaded guilty to felony charges that could send him to prison for up to seven years. The plea offer included no promise of a sentence of lesser than the statutory time in prison of two and a third to seven years for his guilty plea to grand larceny, scheme to defraud, offering a false instrument for filing, and untimely burial. The sentences for each count will run concurrently under the terms of the plea.  Sentencing for the 49-year-old Batavia resident is scheduled for July 13 at 1:30 p.m.

All fans attending Buffalo Bills and Sabres home games next season will be required to show proof of COVID vaccination…that’s the word from Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz. Poloncarz says the policy should be in place by the time the Bills start their preseason games this summer. The plan does not need New York State approval.

Genesee County reports 19 new cases of COVID-19. Six of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. One of the new positive individuals in an inmate at the Genesee County Jail. Orleans County reports 14 new cases. Wyoming County confirms just four additional cases.

Genesee County will be taking walk-ins for the COVID-19 vaccination clinic this afternoon at Genesee Community College from 1 – 4 p.m. No appointment necessary. This will be for the first-dose Moderna vaccine. Those getting a first dose today will have to schedule the second dose while at the clinic. The college is located at 1 College Road in Batavia, off of Stephen R. Hawley Drive.

After investigating a domestic squabble in Pembroke, sheriff’s deputies arrested 26-year-old Caleb Swendsen of Akron Road. He was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance. He’ll appear in court May 24^th.

New York hit a new record high in vaccine distribution in the last seven days. More than 1.5 million doses were administered during that time and more than 200,000 in the last 24 hours. New York’s vast distribution network and large population of eligible individuals still far exceed the supply coming from the federal government. Due to limited supply, New Yorkers are encouraged to remain patient and are advised not to show up at vaccination sites without an appointment.

According to the New York State coronavirus website, international travelers are no longer required to quarantine upon arrival — including travelers who are unvaccinated. The state cites the CDC guidance which requires proof of a negative COVID-19 test. New York still requires the completion a health traveler form.

A Rochester man is facing three felonies after three people were arrested following a traffic stop on Route 33 in Bergen. The operator, 29-year-old Paula G. Pierce of State Street in Batavia, was allegedly driving with a suspended NYS driver’s license. There were two other occupants, 48-year-old Michael R. Whitman of Federal Street in Perry, and 29-year-old Justin P. Porter, of Bennington Drive, Rochester. Deputies conducted a vehicle search and allegedly found drugs and the three occupants were arrested. Porter is accused of providing deputies with a fake name and refusing to disclose his true identity. It is also alleged that while in custody at the Sheriff’s Office, he attempted to conceal drugs by hiding them in an interview room. Porter was charged with felony criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree — with intent to sell, felony tampering with physical evidence, felony conspiracy and several other counts. He was released on his own recognizance. Pierce and Whitman were issued appearance tickets on charges of fourth-degree conspiracy and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree.

On Saturday, April 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Batavia Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will provide the public the opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. Bring your pills for disposal to the Alva Place parking lot across the street from Batavia Showtime (located in the Genesee Country Mall). Sharps will also be accepted at this location, as the United Memorial Medical Center will have staff on hand. The service is free and anonymous, with no questions asked. To keep everyone safe, collection sites will follow local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations, which include masks for citizens dropping off medication.

Genesee County reports 45 new positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to more than 4,800 cases.
31 of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. Five of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. Two are residents of the Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing.

The City of Batavia has implemented a “Carry-in — Carry-out” trash policy in all city parks. All park users are requested to remove any trash generated and take it with them.

Graduation season is about to get underway, and now health and safety guidelines have been announced for those events. State health officials say both indoor and outdoor commencements are allowed this year but capacity limits are going to be in effect. And depending on the size of the ceremony, people may have to provide proof of a negative coronavirus test or show they’ve been vaccinated. Guests will also need to sit six feet apart and wear a mask at all times.

New York State is taking another step towards helping college students get vaccinated against COVID-19. It was announced yesterday that SUNY schools will be getting 21,000 doses of vaccine while 14,000 doses will be distributed to private schools. The hope is that students are able to get their shots before leaving campus for summer vacation. That would likely help reduce the infection rate among young people and prevent them from spreading the illness to their family members.

Tom Redband, head coach of Elba’s Lady Lancers has announced that he and his assistant, Marci Redband, also his wife, are stepping down from their coaching positions. They called it a difficult decision. The team is coming off its fifth straight championship season. A new head coach has not yet been named.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced new updated guidance for graduation and commencement ceremonies organized by schools, colleges and universities. Effective May 1, indoor and outdoor graduation and commencement ceremonies will be allowed with limited attendee capacity, depending on the event size and the location. All event organizers and venues hosting ceremonies must follow the State’s strict health and safety protocols, including requiring face masks, social distancing, health screenings and collection of contact tracing information. For events that exceed the social gathering limits of 100 people indoors or 200 people outdoors, event organizers and venues must notify the local health department and require attendees to show proof of a recent negative test result or proof of completed immunization prior to entry.

Tom Redband, head coach of Elba’s Lady Lancers has announced that he and his assistant, Marci Redband, also his wife, are stepping down from their coaching positions. They called it a difficult decision. The team is coming off its fifth straight championship season. A new head coach has not yet been named.

The City of Batavia has implemented a “Carry-in — Carry-out” trash policy in all city parks. All park users are requested to remove any trash generated and take it with them. The city Bureau of Maintenance asks everyone to help keep the parks clean for everyone’s enjoyment.

911 Dispatchers are in the spotlight this week, and properly so. National Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Week is a time to thank these men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving the public. The Genesee County Legislature will be issuing a proclamation at its Wednesday night meeting recognizing April 11 – 17 as National Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Week. The lights on the Old County Courthouse cupola will be changed to red, white and blue to acknowledge this week. Typically, more than 80,000 events are dispatched yearly in Genesee County. The Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center (Public Safety Answering Point-PSAP) is comprised of 25 men and women who dispatch to five local police agencies/New York State Police; 19 fire departments/Emergency Management Service; three ambulance services; as well as 41 other local, county, regional, state, and federal agencies.

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Monday that New York State will provide a new, separate allocation of 35,000 vaccines to address the college student population at SUNY schools and private colleges. This initial allocation will include 21,000 vaccines to be administered to SUNY students and 14,000 vaccines to be administered at private colleges. The vaccines will be administered to residential and non-commuter students who are leaving for the summer. SUNY Chancellor Jim Malatras said, “Vaccinating SUNY students before they leave for summer break is the key to restoring normalcy on our campuses when students return in the fall.”

The Finger lakes region currently has 203 COVID patients hospitalized. Gov. Cuomo says while we have made incredible progress, COVID is not over and we must all continue to practice the guidelines we know stop this virus in its tracks.

Added to the list of programs offered by Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse last September, the Reentry Program continues to provide support to men and women seeking to find their place in the community after being incarcerated. The main goal of this program is to help reduce or remove some of the barriers that are associated with reentry. The Program provides case management and peer recovery services to those who have been in jail or prison by connecting them to necessities. Eligible individuals are those who have a history of substance use, who were sentenced to jail or prison for a minimum of three months and who are returning to communities in Genesee County or Orleans County.

Genesee County reports 45 new positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the county total to more than 4,800 cases. 31 of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. Five of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. Two are residents of the Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing.

The state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) has announced that all New Yorkers enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will receive the maximum allowable level of food benefits for April. Additionally, those households already near or at the maximum benefit level now will receive a supplemental payment of at least $95 per month for as long as the supplemental payments continue. The additional food benefits will be distributed starting this week and continuing through the end of the month.

Colleges and universities around New York will soon be getting the COVID-19 vaccine in an effort to get young people inoculated.  This comes as New York expanded eligibility for the vaccine to all people 16 and older – and as younger demographics continue to see spikes in infection rates.  Gov, Andrew Cuomo announced Monday at Suffolk Community College that SUNY schools would be taking the lead in a new initiative aimed at vaccinating college students directly on-campus.  Cuomo said the state is pushing to get all students vaccinated by the end of the school year, SUNY schools will be receiving an allotment of the vaccine to help achieve that goal.

New York still has the 2^nd highest unemployment in the country with 8.8 percent compared to the national average of 6 percent.  The number 1 spot goes to Hawaii with 9.2 percent.  Genesee county is at 6.6 percent unemployment which is way down from last year when it was above 12 percent.  A hiring boom is expected as more and more restrictions are lifted.

Senator Chuck Schumer is trying to get money released to help combat the massive increase in anxiety depression and other mental health illnesses this year.  More than 3 times as many people reported mental health problems than last year.  5 billion dollars was included in the American Rescue Plan for New Yorkers dealing with mental health problems but has yet to be released.  Schumer is asking for a quick release.

If you paid for a vaccine for COVID then you may have been scammed.  New York Attorney General Letitia James is issuing an alert urging people to report any charges they got for COVID vaccines.  The vaccines are free and available for anyone over 16 years old.  If you were charged call 18007717755.

The price of Gas is down 1 penny in Batavia this week.  It is 2.84 for a gallon of regular.  The New York State Average is down a penny to 2.89.  Last year the average was 2.26.

The Sabres won against the Philadelphia Flyers on Sunday 5 to 3.  The Sabres announced that they are trading Taylor Hall and Curtis Lazar to the Bruins in return for Anders Bjork and a 2^nd round pick.  Their next game is against the Boston Bruins on Tuesday at 7pm.

State Police today are continuing to investigate a deadly ATV crash in Oakfield. Troopers said 43-year-old Thomas S. Butler of Oakfield was traveling northbound on Bliss Road and crossed Lockport Road.  The ATV exited the intersection and struck a rock embankment, causing the ATV to overturn several times. Butler was ejected and died at the scene. A 55-year-old passenger was also ejected and taken to Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo with non-life-threatening injuries.  Troopers said neither were wearing helmets.  An autopsy is scheduled. This is still an active investigation.

When the Batavia City School Board meets this evening, members will be asked to accept the retirements of two staffers. The positions include a 4^th grade elementary teacher and a food service helper. According to the meeting agenda, action will also be taken on a number of appointments. The Board will take action on a memorandum of agreement between the Batavia Administrators’ Association and school district. The meeting begins at 6:30 pm. and will be held at Robert Morris, 80 Union Street. The meeting will also be live-streamed.

COVID vaccination clinics are planned for today, Wednesday and Thursday. The clinics are available for any New Yorker age 18 and above. The vaccine is the first-dose Moderna. Today’s clinic will be at the Ridgeway Fire Hall, Route 104 in Medina. On Wednesday it will be at the athletic center at Genesee Community College Batavia Campus Center. Thursday’s clinic returns to the Ridgeway Fire Hall. Online appointments are required.

Genesee County deputies arrested 21-year-old Abdi A. Abdi of Rochester following a traffic stop in Byron. He was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance and driving while ability impaired by drugs. Deputies also allege that Abdi possessed crack cocaine. He’ll appear in court May 3^rd.

COVID-19 hospitalizations dropped in New York State to 4,083, the lowest since December 2. 197 people in the Finger Lakes region are currently hospitalized. New positive cases have been rising in the region. Positive cases have increased 2.85% to 3.09% as of Saturday. Western New York cases have also been slowly climbing. Genesee County has reported a total of 4,987 positive cases, 22 are new as of the weekend.

A New York Army National Guard soldier has been promoted in recognition of his capability for additional responsibility and leadership. Rick Hubbard from Bergen, assigned to the 222nd Military Police Company received a promotion to the rank of specialist. Army National Guard promotions are based on overall performance, attitude, leadership ability, and development potential.

Genesee and Orleans counties will host a moderna vaccine clinic on Monday in Medina.  The clinic will take place at Ridgeway Fire hall on rt 104 from 9am to 6pm.  The clinic will target Genesee Orleans county residents but the clinic is open to all eligible New Yorkers.  You can register for the clinic by following the link on wbtai.com.

https://apps2.health.ny.gov/doh2/applinks/cdmspr/2/counties?OpID=BF38DE56DA0E0B2CE0530A6C7C164AA4

The New York State Department of Health has released new guidance for schools reducing the social distancing from 6 feet to 3 feet as long as they are wearing appropriate face coverings.  This followed the CDC making this recommendation on March 19^th and schools calling on the state health department to allow them to do the same.

As marijuana is made legal towns and villages have to decide whether they want it to be sold in their areas and some towns are saying no.  The town of Marilla says it is optin out while Tonowanda isn’t so sure.  The arguments for banning  dispensaries include worries over marijuana use being a gateway drug, increased accidents and health problems.  The arguments for include tax revenue, people going out of town to buy and then coming back anyway, and public support.

The House ethics committee in Washington DC is investigating Representative Tom Reed over the sexual misconduct allegations brought up after Reed said he was thinking about running against Governor Cuomo.  Reed has announced that he will not seek reelection or run for any office in 2022 and said that he has been struggling with alcoholism.

The New York State Empire Trail and Utica’s Boilermaker Race are coming together to sponsor the Empire State Trail Challenge.  Over 4 months participants can join in and virtually ride the trail as part of the race.  Participants are expected to register and each entry costs 25 dollars, registrants receive a t shirt, to ride one leg of the trail, New York City to Albany, Albany to Buffalo, or Albany to the Canada Border at Rouses Point.

The Buffalo Sabres lost last night to the Washington Capitals 4 to 3.  Casey Mittelstadt, Tage Thompson and Henry Jokiharju scored for Buffalo.  The Sabres will be facing off against the Philadelphia flyers in Philly Sunday at 2pm.

The pilot who was killed in the airplane crash in Cattaraugus county was a well known flight instructor at the Genesee County airport.  William Mandelare, of Brockport, died in the crash, which seriously injured Raymond Groetsch, also of Brockport. Groetsch, who also frequently flew in and out of Genesee County Airport, is reported in critical condition.  Mandelare was 80 years old.  Groetsch says that he was flying when the plane stalled on takeoff and its left wing hit the ground and caused the plane to cartwheel.  The plane was a Cessna 177 cardinal.

COVID Update:  Genesee county has 24 new cases and 27 people have recovered.  Orleans county has 17 new cases and 10 people have recovered.  There are 84 active cases in Genesee county and 60 in Orleans.  In Genesee county 12 thousand 2 hundred people are fully vaccinated. In Orleans county 69 hundred people are fully vaccinated.   NY is 14^th in the country with 22.6 percent of the population vaccinated. NY leads the county in the most new cases per day and the 4^th most deaths per day due to COVID.  In totals NY has the 3^rd most cases and the 2^nd most deaths in the country.

The Buffalo Sabres lost to the New Jersey Devils last night 6 to 3 in New Jersey.  Tage Thompson, Jeff Skinner and Victor Olofsson scored goals for the Sabres and Linus Ullmark had 32 saves.  The Sabres are back at home tonight when they host the Washington Capitals.

Local contractor and developer Eric Biscaro is proposing an adult residential community, similar to his Clinton Crossing in Batavia, for a 20-acre site in LeRoy.
Biscaro tells the county planning board his plan would be similar to Clinton Crossing but 50-percent bigger. He needs a zoning change for the project that is proposed for a site along East Ave.
The plan cleared the Planning Board with some modifications. Biscaro says there is still a lot of work to be done before construction can begin.
The planning board also approved a special use permit for a drive-thru at the proposed Chipotle Grill on Veterans Memorial Drive.
Also approved was a design change for Ellicott Place, the 10 unit apartment project on the second floor of the Save-a-lot building. Contractor Victor Gaultieri was given the go-ahead to build outdoor patios for each apartment.

New COVID cases in Genesee County remain in the double digits. The health department reports two dozen new infections.
Orleans County reports 17 new cases.
One is an inmate at the Orleans Correctional Facility. Four are inmates at the Albion Correctional Facility.

For the first time in quite a while, amusement parks across New York State will be allowed to reopen today. They were shut down last year as the number of coronavirus cases continued to increase statewide. Capacity is being limited to just 33-percent and health and safety protocols will need to be followed, including the wearing of masks.

Le Roy Central Schools have been designated as one of the best communities for Music Education in the country.
This is according to the National Association of Music Merchants.
LeRoy was one of 686 schools districts in the nation to be honored

The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation Board of Directors has approved more than $48 million in grants, interest-free loans, and low-cost loans to support vital drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects across New York State. The village of Albion is earmarked to receive nearly $1.3 million in short-term low interest financing and a nearly $2 million grant for water treatment plant upgrades, transmission main repairs and distribution system upgrades.

The New York State Police and local law enforcement will be participating in the national “U Drive. U Text. U Pay.” mobilization to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. Law enforcement throughout the state will be stepping up patrols during this enforcement initiative, which runs through Monday. During the October 2020 distracted driving campaign, law enforcement throughout the state issued 30,151 tickets for vehicle and traffic law violations, including 2,897 tickets for distracted driving. New York State Police Acting Superintendent Kevin Bruen said accidents that result from the use of hand-held devices are completely avoidable and often result in terrible tragedy, like the recent death of Trooper Joe Gallagher. Trooper Gallagher was struck by a distracted driver in 2017 while helping a disabled motorist. He passed away on March 26.

The Le Roy Central School District has been designated as one of the 2021 Best Communities for Music Education in the country. This national designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students. Le Roy is one of 686 districts across the nation receiving the prestigious award in 2021. Le Roy has received this designation 15 out of the last 16 years and continues to thrive in providing music education through many opportunities throughout the district.

A curfew order for bars and restaurants in New York has been extended. Under an executive order from Gov. Andrew Cuomo, these businesses cannot stay open past 11 p.m. The administration enacted the order amid the pandemic. Under an order announced Thursday, the governor said the curfew would be extended through May 6. Numerous bars and restaurants have pushed back against the order, suing the state to resume regular business hours.

COVID cases in Genesee County continue to climb. The health department reports two dozen new infections. Eight of the current positive cases are hospitalized. Orleans County reports 17 new cases. Four of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. One is an inmate at the Orleans Correctional Facility. Four are inmates at the Albion Correctional Facility. In Wyoming County, 14 new cases have been reported and 53 people are in mandatory isolation.

The New York State Liquor Authority has extended the executive order permitting takeout alcohol. A new update on its COVID guidance website names the new expiration date as May 6. Previously, the order was set to expire this week.

The number of people seeking unemployment benefits in New York increased last week. According to the U.S Labor Department, the number of new jobless claims in New York jumped 15,714 to 67,309. That’s the highest level since January 30.

Cattaraugus County deputies have released new information on a deadly plane crash Wednesday at the Great Valley Airport. 72-year-old Raymond Groetsch of Brockport was critically injured and taken by Mercy Flight to ECMC in Buffalo. 80-year-old William Mandelare of Brockport was fatally injured. The FAA and NTSB are investigating.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has announced the allocation of $689 million through the nation’s Housing Trust Fund for affordable housing. New York was allocated $73 million. The Housing Trust Fund was launched in 2008 as an affordable housing production program.

Cutbacks are coming to the General Motors facility on Lexington Avenue in Rochester. A union representative said 255 people, both hourly and salary, will lose their jobs in August. It’s nearly one-third of the workforce at the facility. The union has been told if the plant doesn’t receive any new work from GM, the plant will have to close in 18 months.

Long Island Republican congressman Lee Zeldin has announced that he is going after the governor’s seat in 2022.  He is the first republican to officially announce that he will be running against embattled Cuomo.  Zeldin says that this is the last stand to save the state and said he is aiming to stop record numbers of people leaving New York over high taxes and lost jobs, suffocating regulations and rising crime.  He says he is ready to bring New York back from the brink and return it to being a leader. After the announcement 2 more republicans joined in the race, Andrew Giuliani and Rob Astorino also threw their hats in the ring.

Governor Cuomo renewed 2 executive orders that were set to expire, one allows restaurants to deliver or serve takeout alcohol and the other requires a food purchase with alcohol.

Rochester police are issuing warnings about carjacking’s in Rochester for all travelers who may go to the Flower City.  They warn travelers that someone might rear end you on purpose to get you to stop and get out of your vehicle and then rob you or steal your car at gunpoint.  Police say in the case of an accident to lock your doors and stay in your car and call the police.  Rocehster has seen a marked increase in crime and homicides this year.  In the past week there have been dozens of people shot in the city and a death in an apparent carjacking of a 71 year old man in Gates last night.

Starting today there is a campaign to curb distracted driving throughout New York State running through the 12^th.  Last year during the campaign over 30 thousand tickets were issued.  Governor Cuomo dedicated this years campaign to Trooper Joe Gallagher who died this in March from injuries sustained in 2017 in a distracted driving accident where he was struck by a motorist who was texting on their phone.

If you have old electronics cluttering up your home Ascension Parish wants them to recycle for a fundraiser.  They will be collecting used electronics for 13 days starting today and going through April 20^th to fundraise for Camp Good Days and Special times on Keuka Lake south of Branchport.  Camp Good Days and special times is a camp for kids who have been touched by cancer whether they had it themselves or someone in their family has had or has cancer.  They also have programs for those who have or have family with sickle cell anemia.

You hardly think of the Genesee County Department of Motor Vehicles office, but the presence of an armed guard is expected to become a permanent fixture.
Originally the guard was posted at the DMV to maintain order and social distance during the COVID pandemic. But County Clerk Mike Cianfrini thinks the guard is invaluable.
The cost is $28,000 dollars a year to be paid for COVID-19 relief funding. A committee of the legislature has approved he guard and it now goes to the full legislature for final approval.

Genesee County has reported 10 new cases of COVID-19 infections over the past day. Nine of those individuals are hospitalized, two are inmates at the Genesee County jail.

The Genesee County Planning Board meets tonight and will consider a plan for a Chipotle Grill on Veterans Memorial Drive.
The owners are seeking a special use permit to add a drive-thru to the building.
So far, few concerns have been expressed.

The son of former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani says he’s considering a run for governor next year.
Andrew Giuliani says he believes he has a good chance of unseating Governor Cuomo in 2022 due to the growing number of scandals surrounding his administration.

High School Football tonight.
At 6 tonight WBTA brings you live play by play coverage of Clyde-Savannah against Notre Dame. The game to be played at VanDetta Stadium. John Vazquez and Dan Drummey call the action.

Resolutions to keep a security guard at the DMV and forge a secure arrangement with Friends of the Batavia Peace Garden are on their way to the full Genesee County Legislature. The board’s Ways & Means Committee has voted in favor of amending a contract to continue funding a security guard position. Cost of the added expense of $28,800 is expected to be covered by funding connected to the COVID-19 pandemic. The committee also voted in favor of a memorandum of understanding between the county and the Friends of the Batavia Peace Garden — the volunteer group that services and supports the approximately 11,000 square feet of county property on West Main Street, adjacent to the Holland Land Office Museum.

Genesee County reports ten additional COVID cases. Nine of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. Two of the new positive individuals are inmates at the Genesee County Jail. Orleans County also reports ten new cases. Four of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. Meanwhile in Wyoming County, officials report 17 new cases of COVID.

New York will continue to apply state income tax to 2020 unemployment benefits in full despite the federal government exempting the first $10,200. Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s administration confirmed the decision Wednesday during a news conference on the new $212 billion state budget. The decision came almost a month after the federal government, in the most recent stimulus package, opted against taxing the first $10,200 of unemployment benefits received by individuals with an adjusted gross income of less than $150,000 in 2020. Cuomo’s budget director said those benefits have been subject to state tax for decades and that has not changed.

The Genesee County Planning Board meets tonight and will consider a plan for a Chipotle Grill at Towne Center on Veterans Memorial Drive. The owners are seeking a special use permit to add a drive-thru to the building. So far, few concerns have been expressed.

Andrew Giuliani, the son of former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, announced plans to run for governor of New York in 2022. Giuliani told the Washington Examiner he plans to run and says he believes he can win the race. Giuliani previously worked as part of Donald Trump’s presidential administration. Current Governor Andrew Cuomo has faced backlash for his administration’s handling of COVID-19 in nursing homes, as well as at least ten women accusing the him of sexual misconduct.

Congressman Chris Jacobs is in Texas for a three-day trip to the Southern border to tour immigration facilities and receive briefings from Border Patrol and local law enforcement. Jacobs is traveling with seven other members of the House of Representatives. Jacobs says “We are seeing a growing humanitarian crisis and a surge in criminal activity at our Southern border that is a direct result of President Biden’s reckless policies.”

New York State School Boards Association Executive Director Robert Schneider says he is pleased with the newly proposed state budget. He said a $1.4 billion increase in foundation aid will strengthen support for individual districts by at least 2% this year and put all districts on track for full funding of foundation aid within three years. This is a goal that has been elusive for far too long in New York and that NYSSBA has called for consistently. The Association also says it appreciates the Legislature’s rejection of proposals that would have consolidated or eliminated several important expense-based aids, including reimbursement for programs and services provided to students through BOCES.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has announced a new opportunity for young hunters. The new state budget includes legislation that now allows youths ages 12 and 13 to hunt deer with a firearm or crossbow under the supervision of an experienced adult hunter in upstate counties that opt-in to participate. Until now, New York was the only state that didn’t allow 12- and 13-year-olds to hunt big game with a firearm. The legislation requires each county to “opt-in” to the program by adopting a local law allowing for 12- and 13-year-olds to hunt deer in accordance with the Environmental Conservation law.

NY Congressman Tom Reed will no longer serve as the co-chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus. According to a tweet on Wednesday afternoon, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick of Bucks County, Pennsylvania has been elected to replace the Southern Tier Republican as co-chair of the bipartisan caucus. Reed announced in March that he will not seek re-election in 2022 after a former lobbyist accused him of sexual misconduct.

The COVID vaccine is now available for every New Yorker 16 and up but the only vaccine 16 and 17 year old’s can get is the Pfizer vaccine.  There are no Pfizer vaccines available in Genesee county so 16 and 17 year old’s must travel to Rochester or Buffalo to get the shot.  Although teens arenot as impacted nearly as heavily by COVID medical experts are still urging them to get vaccinated to protect other’s who may be more susceptible than them.

Friday is the deadline for the Genesee County Youth Bureau’s 18^th Annual Family Game Night which takes place on April 29^th from 5:30 t 7:30 pm at County Building 2.  Due to the coronavirus pandemic, Family Game Night will be a “Grab ‘n’ Go” style event. Families will drive up to the main entrance of County Building 2 and staff will greet them with a family tote that will consist of information about the services provided by the Genesee County Departments as well as prizes and activities.  Each bag will also have snacks, beverages and of course a brand new board game for families to start their own “Family Game Night” at home.  To register call 344 3960, only the first 30 families will be able to sign up.

Six flags Darien Lake is holding a drive through hiring event this and next Saturday to fill their over 1500 positions for the 2021 season.  They ask prospective employees to apply inline at sixflags.com/darienlake/jobs.

Batavia Downs is holding a job fair today.
The gaming facility and harness track is looking for servers, dining hosts, cooks, bussers, bartenders and gaming hosts.
No experience is necessary for some positions. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older. Batavia Downs has full- and part-time positions available with benefits.
The in person job fair is taking place from 2 until 6 p.m. today in the Park Place room at the Downs.

Six flags Darien Lake is looking to fill 1,500 jobs for this summer. Darien Lake is holding a drive-thru hiring event this Saturday, April 10th and again next Saturday, April 17th. Applicants should apply online prior to attending the drive-thru event. You will then be given an interview time.
A variety of positions are available including lifeguards, ride operators, cashiers, front gate ticket takers and sellers as well as positions in Medical Services, Security, Guest Relations, Accommodations, Retail and Food Service. Positions start at $12.50 an hour.

SUNY has announced a plan to offer COVID-19 vaccinations to all students before they leave campus for Summer vacation. Right now, officials are working on distributing over 18,000 doses of Johnson and Johnson vaccine to 34 SUNY campuses in the state. Since the Johnson and Johnson vaccine only requires one dose instead of two, it’ll speed up the vaccination process significantly.

After weeks of negotiations, Governor Cuomo and the state Legislature have finally reached an agreement on the new state budget. The fiscal plan calls for $212-billion dollars in spending, which is roughly 18 billion dollars more than last year. The deal includes a plan to raise taxes on high-income residents, legalization of mobile sports betting and sets aside funds for schools. There will also be comprehensive reforms put in place at nursing homes. Once the Senate and Assembly pass the budget, it’ll head to Governor Cuomo so he can sign it.

For the first time in quite a while, the Buffalo Sabres have won two games in a row. The Sabres beat the New Jersey Devils five-to-three at Prudential Center last night. The same two teams will meet again tomorrow in New Jersey.

Governor Andrew Cuomo and legislative leaders have announced an agreement on the New York State Budget. The final budget accomplishes major legislative priorities, including a record $29.5 billion in aid to schools; $29 billion in public and private green economy investments; Legalizing mobile sports betting; and Implementing comprehensive nursing home reforms. In combination with more than $12 billion in federal budget relief, New Yorkers will get green infrastructure spending. Senate Minority Leader Robert Ortt said provisions like unemployment for undocumented workers are “out of whack.” The minority leader also said the budget will only contribute to people further leaving the state.

State lawmakers have renewed their call for Gov. Andrew Cuomo to allow all schools to return to full-time, in-person classroom instruction. The move has also been supported by area school superintendents.  The lawmakers said that the only thing still standing in the way of the return to in-person learning for all students is a Cuomo executive order requiring a minimum distance of 6 feet between students in classrooms. In a joint statement, the area legislators said, “It is time for students to go back to school. The Cuomo administration should immediately issue revised guidance to allow all schools to return to full-time, in-person classroom instruction. It is a critical action that needs to move forward for the health and well-being of all of our students.”

Genesee County reports 27 more COVID-19 cases. Nine of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. Two of the new positive individuals are inmates at the Genesee County Jail. Officials in Orleans County report 11 new cases while Wyoming County reports just two new cases.

The final three candidates for the Byron-Bergen superintendents job will interview today. The finalists are Patrick McGee who is Byron-Bergen’s Junior-Senior High School principal; Dr. Jennifer Sinsebox, executive director of curriculum and data management at Wheatland-Chili Central School; and Tracy Marchionda. assistant superintendent for the Geneva City School District. Additional final interviews are scheduled for next week as well. The job begins July 1^st.

State University of New York Chancellor Jim Malatras has announced a program specifically designed to begin vaccinating SUNY residential students prior the end of the spring semester. SUNY has secured its first reserved shipment of Johnson & Johnson (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine to inoculate SUNY residential students prior to their departure for summer break. Because the J&J vaccine requires just one dose, tens of thousands of on-campus students scheduled to finish the semester in early May can get their one shot without having to wait weeks for a second dose before going home.

NY Congressman Tom Reed continues to lay low. The Corning Republican had often appeared on cable TV shows and his staff routinely sent out press releases. Reed also had stopped, at least for now, his regular town hall sessions with his constituents. Reed hasn’t posted anything on Facebook since March 22 when he announced his public meetings would be rescheduled. On March 21, the congressman issued a press releases saying he wouldn’t be running for any public office in the future and apologized after being accused of sexual harassment involving a female lobbyist. Reed said he entered treatment in 2017, saying he was powerless over alcohol.

RG&E is marking the completion of a major effort to help upgrade its systems. For a decade, the company has been working through its Rochester Area Reliability Project. The $389 million effort aims to boost local electric transmission services. The new substation was one element of the project, which also included upgrades to existing substations and the installation of more than 27 miles of new or rebuilt transmission lines.

Smoking marijuana recreationally may be legal now but other laws, specifically the use of firearms and marijuana, have not changed.  The Gun Control Act of 1968 prohibits anyone who owns marijuana a from also owning a firearm.  So if you own a firearm and also are found in possession of marijuana the police can still arrest you for unlawful possession of a firearm, though the weed would be legal.  This is currently in effect and will also pertain to those who work in the marijuana industry.

The Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York is warning people against taking pictures of their vaccination card and posting it to Social Media.  That card has a lot of information. A lot of information that could be used inappropriately in the wrong hands.  For instance someone could fake having had the vaccine by copying the card with their own information.  Or use your name and date of birth in nefarious ways.

Community Action of Orleans and Genesee Counties Head Start Program is doing a fundraiser to put books in the homes of all head start families.  Build a library, create a reader is looking to send books home with kids once a month and is asking the public to jump onboard the reading train with a 60 dollar donation which will buy 12 months worth of books for a single family.

Two robberies in Orleans County lead to a police pursuit with shots fired.
It all started yesterday morning with an armed robbery at Crosby’s in Albion. A lone suspect brandished a weapon and demanded cash then fled in a vehicle.
Then just after 10:30 yesterday morning, another armed robbery at the Family Dollar in Medina. Again, a weapon was shown – this time a handgun – the suspect fled with cash in a small black car with out of state plates.
That vehicle was later spotted by Albion police and the chase was on. Road blocks were established. The suspect vehicle then drove toward a deputy causing the lawman to have to jump out of the way to save his life.
At this point shots were fired into the suspect’s car. It then traveled several more miles before losing a wheel and coming to a stop. Two suspects, a man and a woman, were taken into custody. There were no injuries to either the suspects or police. It is believed the suspects are linked to multiple robberies in Monroe and Orleans Counties.

An important chunk of state aid for Batavia makes its way into the final budget bill.
It means $800,000 dollars for the city of Batavia in the form of Video Lottery Terminal (VLT)  aid. Basically, this is extra cash for the city to have Batavia Downs within its border.
That budget bill has yet to be approved and signed by the governor.

As of today, any New Yorker over the age of 16 will become eligible to receive their COVID-19 vaccination.
But, there are some things these people should know before signing up for their shots.
Only the Pfizer vaccine has been approved for people ages 16 and 17.
In order to get a Moderna or Johnson and Johnson vaccine you must be at least 18.

The Buffalo Sabres will be on the road tonight as they search for a second straight win. They’ll be taking on the New Jersey Devils in Newark.
The Sabres are coming off of a three-to-two shootout victory over the New York Rangers Saturday night and have earned a point in each of their last four games.

Orleans County Law Enforcement agencies have been working two robbery cases in the Villages of Albion and Medina along with a pursuit of the suspect vehicle through several Towns in Orleans County. The armed robberies happened at the Crosby’s Store on North Main Street in Albion and later at the Family Dollar in Medina. The suspect vehicle was spotted by police in the Town of Ridgeway. The vehicle sped away refusing to stop and travelled through several towns including Ridgway, Gaines and Carlton. Police said the vehicle was travelling at high rates of speed at times, driving through lawns and ditches and avoiding police road blocks. At one point the suspect vehicle intentionally drove at a deputy blocking the roadway with a marked patrol vehicle causing the deputy to jump out of the way to avoid being struck and killed. As the suspect was attempting to strike the deputy, shots were fired into the suspect vehicle in an attempt to stop the suspect from using the vehicle as a deadly weapon. The suspects, a male and female, were eventually taken into custody. There were no injuries to any police officers or the suspects. The cases remain under investigation.

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments have vaccination and testing clinics with appointments available for Genesee and Orleans County residents. Starting today vaccine is now available for people age 16 and older.  Pfizer is a 2-series dose, 21 days apart, and is recommended for people aged 16 and older.  Moderna is a 2-series dose, 28 days apart, and is recommended for people aged 18 and older.  Johnson & Johnson is a one-series dose and is recommended for people age 18 and older. In Genesee County, the clinics are held at the Athletic Center at GCC in Batavia and in Orleans County, the clinics are held at the Ridgeway Fire Hall in Medina.

Genesee County is reporting 47 new positive cases of COVID-19, including data from over the weekend. Seventeen of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. Nine of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. Twelve of the new positive individuals are inmates at the Genesee County Jail.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced that New York restaurants are now eligible for their own direct federal pandemic relief. This was all part of the American Rescue Plan that recently went into effect. Schumer announced that more help is on the way for the Southern Tier economy, but that local restaurants need to apply through the Small Business Administration.

Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $2.87, up 1 cent from last week. One year ago, the price was $1.94. The New York State average is $2.90 – down a penny from last week. A year ago, the NYS average was $2.30. AAA Western and Central New York reports Batavia gas prices are $2.85 (up 1 cent since last week).

It’s been two weeks since the state was asked about new guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that states students’ desks can be separated by three feet rather than six feet. Gov. Andrew Cuomo and his team addressed the guidance Monday during his press briefing. New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said the state will need to work with local school districts on the guidance because each district is different. The Governor said the new recommendations should be coming out within a week, but he said it’s not easy coming up with the guidance.

The Batavia Center Culinary Team out of BOCES ranked in the top 10 in national rankings for the NASA culinary challenge this week with their Sweet Potato Shepherds Pie.  According to the judges’ feedback, Isaiah Merrell, Alexa Wolcott, and Sara Logsdon had one of the best creations in taste, texture aroma and appearance.  Isaiah is a senior from Byron-Bergen High School, and Alexa and Sara are both juniors from Pavilion High School.  Some other entries were Roasted Butternut Squash risotto from New Jersey, Granola Bars from Connecticut, and Grilled Steak with Asparagus from Alabama to name a few.  If their recipe is chosen number 1 it could be sent to the ISS for astronauts to enjoy in space.

2 Batavia Men have been arrested for Rape.  The first, 35 year old Kyle Gugel is charged with violating an order of protection, illegally entering a residence and forcibly raping a victim on March 18^th at 9:30am on West Main street.  He was arrested on the 31^st.  The second man is 19 year old Hezekiah Burch is charged with first degree rape, first degree sex abuse, and attempted sex abuse all with forcible compulsion.  The charges come from aleggedly forcibly raping a 15 year old over a month long period earlier this year.  He was arrested on the 29^th.

Gas prices are up a cent in Batavia but overall fairly steady.  This week a gallon of regular will run you 2.85 in Batavia but the New York State average is down a penny to 2.90.  Nationally it is up a penny to 2.87.  Oil Prices are down but the amount of travel is up causing a wavering effect but no firm up or down movement in the price of gas.

The Buffalo Sabres won in a shootout against the New York Rangers Saturday Night.  Their 3-2 victory is thanks to Tage Thompson who scored the winning goal and Victor Olofsson and Casey Mittelstadt put a puck in a piece.  Buffalo’s next match up will be against the New Jersey Devils in New Jersey at 7 Tuesday night.

New data shows Western New York has one of the highest COVID-19 infection rates in the state.
During the past week, over four-percent of residents have tested positive, which is above the state average of three-point-six-percent.
Genesee County is showing a 7-day average infection rate of an even 3-percent.

Starting tomorrow, all New Yorkers over the age of 16 will be eligible to receive their COVID-19 vaccinations.
Since such a large number of people will be able to get vaccinated, appointments could fill up fast and officials are urging everyone to be patient.
So far, one-in-three New York residents have received at least one vaccination while one-in-five are fully vaccinated.

It’s a very big day for businesses such as casinos, movie theaters, gyms and bowling alleys statewide.
That’s because they no longer have to follow an 11 p.m. curfew the state put in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
But, catered events like weddings and parties must end by midnight. Restaurants and bars still have to follow rules they’ve been dealing with for months, but a decision on when those establishments could be allowed to remain open longer is expected in a few weeks.

A Rochester man faces multiple felony counts after he was pulled over on Clinton Street Road in Stafford.
Sheriff’s deputies arrested 33-year-old Kerwin Vega early yesterday. He was charged with DWI with an 11-year-old passenger, driving without a license, DWI with a previous conviction in the past ten years and endangering the welfare of a child,
Vega will answer the charges in Town of Bergen court next week.

New York begins the new week without benefit of a state budget. The spending plan was due last Thursday and negotiations reportedly are ongoing. Thursday is a key day for many. Without a budget adopted today, 39,000 state employees who work in health care and correctional facilities and other state institutions might not get their paychecks on time.

A Batavia teen has been accused of raping a child under the age of 15. City police say they arrested 19-year-old Hezekiah Burch stemming from a January 18^th incident on Hutchins Place. Burch has been charged with two counts of first-degree rape with forcible compulsion, first-degree sex abuse with forcible compulsion, and attempted sex abuse in the 1st degree with forcible compulsion, all stemming from separate incidents over a one-month time frame. He was initially remanded to Genesee County Jail pending court action.

According to the Department of Environmental Conservation, Genesee and Orleans counties are now under a Drought Watch. There are no statewide mandatory water use restrictions in place under a drought watch, but residents are strongly encouraged to voluntarily conserve water. The drought watch is triggered by the State Drought Index, which reflects precipitation levels, groundwater levels, and stream flow in nine designated regions throughout New York.

An Ontario man lost his appeal stemming from his arrest nearly four years ago in Genesee County. 49-year-old Ronald Barber was convicted in 2018 on a felony criminal mischief charge. A jury found that Barber damaged limousines belonging to S & S Limousines of Le Roy where he was employed as a driver. Barber maintained he was denied effective assistance of counsel.  The Appellate Court ruled in a two-page decision that although “an acquittal would not have been unreasonable,” the verdict was not against the weight of the evidence. Finally, the Court ruled that the sentence was not unduly harsh or severe.

New York begins the new week without benefit of a state budget. The spending plan was due last Thursday and negotiations reportedly are ongoing. Thursday is a key day for many. Without a budget adopted today, 39,000 state employees who work in health care and correctional facilities and other state institutions might not get their paychecks on time. Another 146,000 state employees at administrative and executive state agencies are expecting their pay day April 14.

Beginning today, New York State will lift the 11 p.m. curfew for casinos, movie theaters, bowling alleys, pool halls, and gym and fitness centers. However, bars and restaurants will still be saddled with the 11 p.m. curfew.

State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s Fiscal Stress Monitoring System has identified eight villages and three cities in New York that were in some level of fiscal stress in 2020, based on scores that largely reflect the time period before the COVID-19 pandemic. DiNapoli evaluated all non-calendar year local governments and designated three cities and three villages in “significant fiscal stress,” one village in “moderate fiscal stress” and four villages as “susceptible to fiscal stress.” The good news…no communities in Genesee County made the list.

United Memorial Medical Center announces renewed visitation beginning today. Hospital officials say visitors will be capped at two per patient for up to four hours. However, only one person can visit at a time. Visiting hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 to 6 p.m. Visitors are still banned in the Emergency Department.

Batavia Police arrested 24-year-old Alexandro Rodriguez after a domestic incident on Dellinger Ave. where he allegedly punched another person in the face and stole property from her. Police leveled charged of robbery and assault. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of cash bail. Rodriguez is scheduled to reappear in Batavia City Court May 6^th.

Ellicott street has been run down for a long time in the area where Santy’s Tire Sales used to be and Savarino Company of buffalo says it may be only a short time before something is done with that parcel.  Savarino’s says they are trying to get a grant from the New York State Homes and community Renewal to turn it into a retail, housing and entertainment development complex and may close as early as May.  The $22.5 million project calls for construction of a five-story apartment building with 55 new, modern workforce housing units, as well as a brewery, restaurant/beer garden and potential further development on 3.31 acres. It is expected to create 20 jobs in the city’s downtown area.

The CDC has updated its guidance for travel to say that those who have been fully vaccinated and waited the 2 weeks for the vaccine to take effect can travel freely within the US without being tested for COVID or quarantining when they arrive in different states or when they return home.  They still caution that mask wearing and social distancing will be important.  The CDC still recommends that international travelers get tested and quarantine citing variants that exist in other countries which may be resistant to the vaccine.

COVID Update from Friday at 4pm: Genesee county has 13 new cases and 10 people have recovered.  8 people are hospitalized/  Orleans county has 10 new cases and 4 people have recovered.  3 people are hospitalized.  There are 68 active cases in Genesee county and 53 in Orleans.  Nearly 10 thousand people in Genesee County have been fully vaccinated which is roughly 1/6^th of the population.  In Orleans county almost 6 thousand people or 1/7^th of the population have been fully vaccinated.  New York State surged ahead in the percentage of the population who had been fully dosed this week with 19.1 percent.  New York now ranks 13^th in the US by percent.  New Mexico is still in the lead with 25 percent.

Be careful when you step out your front door.  A family in Holley learned that lesson when they stepped out on their concrete front porch only for it to collapse under them into a 10 foot deep hole.  The porch was only a 2 foot by 6 foot stoop between the door and front yard and is only about 6 inches off the ground but collapsed into the space between the foundation and basement.  Structural engineers say the metal holding the concrete slab up deteriorated leading to the father and son falling in as it gave way beneath them.  The concrete folded over on the father and pinned him, he was taken to the hospital with serious injuries.  His son had an ankle injury.

Thursday the 8^th at 7pm is the next trivia night at the Holland Land office Museum and the topic will be the life and works of the Bard, William Shakespeare.  The next event on the schedule is April 4^th with a presentation by James Black on the edged weapons of the Civil War.  You can attend either event in person or Via zoom or facebook live.  Seating is limited to 12 people in person at each event.

Bring your best friend and join us for a guided dog walk through the Genesee County Park & Forest on Saturday April 3rd, Saturday May 1st, Saturday June 12th and Saturday July 10th from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

This guided walk is great for socialization and healthy exercise! Meet at the Interpretive Nature Center.Dogs must be on a leash at all times. Current license or proof of up-to-date rabies vaccination is required. Aggressive dogs will not be allowed to participate. Cost is $5/dog and all proceeds go to the Genesee County Animal Shelter.Masks must be worn whenever unable to maintain 6 feet of social distance. Participants are encouraged to wash their hands often or use hand sanitizer. Pre-registration is required!

Call (585) 344-1122 to register!Call(585) 344-1122 to register. For more information visit our website HERE 

New York State Troopers will soon be wearing body cameras.
The directive is expected to begin in Western New York by the end of the summer.

Batavia is headquarters for Troop A which covers all of Western New York.

State Police Field Commander Steven Nigrelli talks about how the cameras will work:

The requirement for Troopers to wear body-worn cameras is the result of legislation that was signed into law last June.

Genesee County reports ten new positive cases of COVID-19.
Twenty-one of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list.
Seven of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.

The State has released unemployment data for February.
Last February,, just before the COVID lockdown, Genesee County’s unemployment rate was 5-percent.
This year, the jobless rate for February was 6.6-percent.

Let your dog take you for a walk.
Beginning tomorrow, the Genesee County Park and Forest welcomes you and your best four-legged friend for the first in a series of walks in the park.
The guided walk is great for socialization and exercise for both dog and human.
The one hour walk begins at 10 tomorrow morning and ill continue on select Saturday mornings through July. There is $5 per dog registration fee with proceeds benefiting the Genesee County Animal Shelter. Call: 344-1122 to register.
Remember to bring a mask…for yourself.

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that the New York State Police has deployed its first body-worn cameras as the agency’s new program begins its statewide rollout. The requirement for Troopers to wear body-worn cameras is the result of legislation that was signed into law last June. The body-worn cameras will be worn by uniform members at the rank of Trooper while they are on patrol. The first cameras will be deployed in the Capital Region. The expansion will reach this area throughout the summer and fall. State Police Field Commander Colonel Steven A. Nigrelli said under the law, the cameras will automatically start recording whenever a patrol vehicle’s emergency lighting is activated, and anytime a member unholsters his or her firearm or taser.

Court action continues in the case of a Bergen man who was killed after his vehicle was struck by a garbage truck February 3^rd in the town of Gates. 63-year-old Paul Laudico sustained a fatal injury. In Gates court this week, 31-year-old Jerry Moore entered a plea of not guilty to the charge of criminally negligent homicide. Police allege Moore was watching a cellphone video while driving when the crash occurred.

National restaurant chain Chipotle has its eye on Towne Center at Batavia for a new location according to a special use permit application filed on its behalf by COR Development Company, owners of the plaza. The building is the former location of Metro Mattress in the same structure as Game Stop and Five Guys. If approved, the location would be modified to include a drive-thru and outdoor seating. The application for a special use permit and site plan review will be heard this month by the County Planning Board before being sent to the Town of Batavia Planning Board.

Legislation has been signed into law in Albany, reforming the practice of solitary confinement in New York State correctional facilities. This legislation limits the amount of time an incarcerated person can spend in segregated confinement to 15 days, clearly defines and reduces the number of disciplinary infractions eligible for segregated confinement, and exempts certain vulnerable populations, including the young, elderly, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and individuals with a serious mental illness.

Senate Republican Leader Robert Ortt, along with members of the Senate Republican Conference, called for an end to dangerous and extreme pro-criminal, anti-police policies and rhetoric being driven as a result of One-Party rule in Albany. Ortt said a convicted cop killer, has been appointed to sit on one of Governor Cuomo’s “police reform” boards in Ithaca. The senator says allowing a cop killer to have the authority to provide public safety policy advice and to “reimagine” police departments is unimaginable.

Genesee County reports ten new positive cases of COVID-19. Twenty-one of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. Seven of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. From Orleans County…eight new positive cases were confirmed Thursday. Five of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. In Wyoming County, just five new cases were reported. Officials also reported one additional virus-related death. Thirty-seven residents remain in mandatory isolation. Overall, the region has experienced a slow decline in COVID cases.

As New York enters its second day of the new state fiscal year, it does so without benefit of a new budget. The spending plan way due Thursday, but the day came and went with little action. A budget spokesperson said negotiations are continuing. GOP leaders say they have been shut out from the negotiations. Several sticking points remain and talks will most likely continue into next week.

New Allegations that Governor Cuomo used his Governor’s office staff to type and edit his book, “American Crisis: Leadership Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic” have surfaced in a New York Times article.  According to the article Cuomo made more than 4 million dollars off the book deal.  Production has been paused since the allegations against Governor Cuomo started coming last month.

New Yorkers who travel out of state no longer have to quarantine when they return home as long as they didn’t leave the States.  International travelers still have to quarantine.

An Allegany county man has been charged with sexual assault and rape of minors stretching back to the mid eighties in Livingston county.  75 year old Frank Wright was charged with 5 counts of first degree rape stemming from the rape in 1987 and 88 of a child who was 12 at the time, 5 counts of first degree sodomy against a victim who was 5 years old in 1992.  2 counts of sexual abuse of a 4 year old in Avon in 1998.  More victims are coming forward and allege a history of abuse spanning over 60 years.  Wright is held in Livingston County Jail and any other victims are encouraged to come forward by calling 585 243 7100.

The family that lost their home to the fire on Maple street earlier this week is getting some help form an unlikely source.  The Easter Bunny is raising money in an event on Saturday in Leroy by having people make a donation to the family to get a picture with the furry holiday mascot from 9 to 11:30 at the gazebo on Wolcott Street.  The fundraiser is being organized by Jenna Read and Ally Scofield and all proceeds go to helping the family.  The Store in Batavia, Junk Drawer is also accepting donations of clothes and personal items such as shampoo and soap.  See Our News Partner The Batavian for details.

Chipotle may be coming to Batavia.  The national chain has submitted a special use permit application for the building that used to house Metro Mattress next to GameStop in the Batavia Towne Center Plaza.  If approved the location would be altered to include a drive through and outdoor dining.

Governor Cuomo has signed a law legalizing recreational use of marijuana for people over the age of 21. It could still be up to 18 months until you can buy it at a local dispensary.

The big push for legal pot was fueled by the potential for tax revenue at the state level.

 Rachael Tabelski

But City Manager Rachel Tabelski tells us there is a payoff at the local level as well:

Municipal governments do not have any authority on adult use, but can decide whether the city allows for a dispensary.
At that point Tabelski says, the city can regulate the times and location n through local zoning.

The April 1st deadline has arrived, but members of the Legislature are still trying to finalize a new state budget. Each chamber did pass one of the several bills required for the budget to be completed. The Legislature is expected to be back at the Capitol later today, but there’s no word yet how much longer the budget process could take.

An online fundraiser has been established to help a Batavia family of six after a fire this week destroyed the home they were renting at 37 Maple Street. Several pets perished and the family lost all their belongings.
A GoFundMe page has already raised more than $5,800. So far, more than 80 residents have donated.

Genesee County reports 17 new cases of COVID-19.
Five of the current positive individuals are hospitalized and three new cases involve inmates at the Genesee County Jail.
A dozen new COVID cases have been confirmed in Orleans County while, officials in Wyoming County reported six new virus cases.

For the first time since February 23rd, the Buffalo Sabres have won a game and avoided setting a new NHL record in the process.
Buffalo came into the game having lost 18 in a row, tying the mark set by the 2003-2004 Pittsburgh Penguins. The Sabres will look to make it back-to-back victories tonight when they host the New York Rangers.

Batavia Police have cleared a man who stopped by a house on Maple Street before it erupted into flames. Police have been assisting the Batavia City Fire Department in the investigation of the fire at 37 Maple St. that occurred Tuesday morning. The investigation has currently shown that an individual who had stopped at the home to pick up refrigerators did not have anything to do with the fire’s origin. The fire is still under investigation this morning.

Genesee County reports 17 new cases of COVID-19. Five of the current positive individuals are hospitalized and three new cases involve inmates at the Genesee County Jail. A dozen new COVID cases have been confirmed in Orleans County with three of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. Meanwhile, health officials in Wyoming County reported six new virus cases.

The New York State Sheriffs’ Institute will begin its annual Honorary Membership drive in Genesee County within the next 10 days according to Sheriff William Sheron, Jr. The Institute was established in 1979.  The flagship program of the Sheriffs’ Institute is the Sheriffs’ Summer Camp for economically challenged children.  The Camp, in its 45th year of operation, is located on Keuka Lake and 840 children from across New York State attend each summer.  The Sheriffs’ Institute pays the entire cost of the camp stay and transportation.  Most children attending would not otherwise have an opportunity for vacation travel or a summer camp experience.

Every year, the New York State Budget is due on April 1, but this year, lawmakers missed the mark. Some members of the state Assembly told an Albany TV station that the budget is expected to be passed by the end of this week, or early next week at the latest. However, if weeks go by without a complete budget, there could be implications.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley joined other members of the Assembly and Senate Minority Conferences in calling on Gov. Cuomo to release $1.3 billion in CARES Act housing assistance funding to aid tenants and landlords. If the money were to go unused by the end of September, it is possible the federal government could take the funds back, leaving tenants and landlords without much-needed assistance. Tenants have struggled to pay rent due to the pandemic, causing many small landlords to face difficulty in paying their mortgages.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed legislation legalizing adult-use cannabis. The move came less than twenty-four hours after the legislature approved the bill. The bill also expands New York State’s existing medical marijuana and hemp programs. Cities, towns, and villages may opt-out of allowing adult-use cannabis retail dispensaries or on-site consumption licenses by passing a local law by December 31. They cannot opt-out of adult-use legalization. Some of the tax money generated by the law will go to education and drug treatment. The legislation includes additional funding for drug recognition experts and law enforcement to ensure safe roadways. The use of cannabis by drivers will remain prohibited and will carry the same penalties as it does currently.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation today urged hikers to postpone hikes on trails above 2,500 feet until high elevation trails have dried and hardened. As snow and ice continue to melt at high elevations, steep trails can pose a danger to hikers due to thick ice and deep, rotten snow. Despite recent warm weather, high elevation trails are still covered in slowly melting ice and snow. Hikers are advised to take extreme caution on low elevation trails. Hikers will encounter variable conditions such as thick mud, flooded areas, and deep slushy snow.

Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr. announces the appointment of Deputy Sheriff Kyle J. Tower.  Deputy Tower recently completed the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office field training program and is assigned to the road patrol division. Tower brings over eight years of public safety experience to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.  Deputy Tower currently resides in Darien.

An online fundraiser has been established to help a Batavia family of six after a fire this week destroyed the home they were renting at 37 Maple Street. Several pets perished and the family lost all their belongs. A GoFundMe page has already raised more than $5,700.

Batavia Downs will be extending its hours beginning Monday.
Effective April 5th, the Downs will be open from 8am until 1am Sunday through Thursday and until 3am Friday and Saturday.
Patrons of the Down will must still undergo a temperature check at the door and will be required to wear a mask at all times.

A bill that would make New York the 15th state in the country to legalize recreational marijuana is on its way to Governor Cuomo’s desk.
Members of the state Senate and Assembly passed the bill late last night following several hours of debate.
The legislation allows New Yorkers over the age of 21 to legally possess under three ounces of pot and clears the way for retail sales of the drug to happen in about 18 months.

This should come as no surprise to those of us who live here but New York State leads the country with the overall number one tax burden
The personal-finance website WalletHub today released its 2021 Tax Burden by State report.
New York also leads the nation with the number one individual income tax burden.
Alaska has the lowest tax burden.

The Buffalo Sabres will be looking to keep their name out of the NHL’s record books tonight. They’ll be hosting the Philadelphia Flyers at KeyBank Center. When Buffalo lost to the Flyers in overtime Monday, they tied the 2003-2004 Pittsburgh Penguins with their 18th consecutive loss. Should they lose again, they’d set a brand new record of 19 straight defeats. Face-off for tonight’s game is set for seven-30 p-m.
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After years of attempts, New York’s lawmakers have voted to legalize recreational marijuana for adults. After Gov. Andrew Cuomo signs the bill into law — which he’s expected to do — New York will join more than a dozen other states that have legalized cannabis. The state Senate and Assembly hashed out final details in a Tuesday debate. It passed the Senate with a 40-23 vote and the Assembly with a 100 – 49 vote. Senator Rob Ortt called the legislation “deeply flawed” and he, along with every other senate Republican, voted against the measure. New Yorkers won’t be able to immediately purchase marijuana; it could take 18 months to two years for sales to start.

The investigation continues into a two-alarm fire that heavily damaged a home at 37 Maple Street in Batavia. Everyone made it out of the two-story home safely. Four adults and two children were living in the rental property. Heavy smoke and flames confronted firefighters when they arrived. Fire crews remained at the scene for around two hours. The tenant said the fire started outside but they don’t know how it happened. Three dogs and six cats perished in the fire.  The Red Cross assisted.

Two Genesee County residents remain hospitalized from COVID-19 and health officials say nine new positive cases have been confirmed. Another nine cases were also reported in Orleans County – one person is hospitalized. Beginning tomorrow, New York State will no longer require quarantine for domestic travelers. International travelers will still need to quarantine. All travelers will still be required to complete the Traveler Health Form.

Genesee Community College will recognize its students during its 53rd Commencement Ceremony, taking place completely online. Honoring this group of deserving achievers, will be keynote speaker, Dr. Susan Salvador, former Vice President for Student Affairs at Monroe Community College in Rochester. As Genesee Community College continues to develop its virtual commencement, details will be made available on www.genesee.edu/commencement. The event is set to take place May 22^nd.

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that collegiate sports can bring fans back to the stands under strict state guidelines, beginning Friday. Intercollegiate sports at large-scale venues that hold more than 1,500 attendees indoors or 2,500 attendees outdoors can host up to 10 percent indoor or 20 percent outdoor capacity. All attendees must present proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test result or completed COVID-19 immunization prior to entry. Small-scale college venues that host intercollegiate, intramural, or club sports can host spectators at either two fans per player, or the social gathering limit of 100 attendees indoors or 200 attendees outdoors.

Tickets were issued stemming from a debris fire Monday night behind a home on Lake Street Road in Le Roy. Multiple fire departments were brought in to extinguish the flames. The DEC also responded and an environmental conservation police officer issued a ticket for unlawful open burning. It carries a minimum $500 fine. The DEC reminds residents there is a statewide ban on open burning that runs through May 14.

Court action is pending for a Pavilion man following his arrest. Genesee County deputies arrested 51-year-old Daniel Knauss of West Park Street. He was charged with menacing after he allegedly chased and threatened another person, causing fear of physical injury. He’ll answer the charge in Pavilion Town Court on April 6^th.

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced a new expansion of COVID-19 vaccine eligibility in New York. Beginning this morning, all New Yorkers 30 years of age and older will be eligible to receive the vaccine. Beginning April 6, universal eligibility goes into effect and all New Yorkers 16 years of age and older will be eligible to receive the vaccine. To date, nearly 369,000 residents of the Finger Lakes have had at least one vaccine dose and 203,000 have had the complete vaccine series.

The Buffalo Bills have announced that Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York will be the new naming rights partner for Bills Stadium. Effective immediately, the home of the Bills will now be named Highmark Stadium. Under the agreement, the Bills and Highmark will work together towards enhancing regional health and wellness through various activation opportunities at Highmark Stadium. Fans can expect to see the signage transformation completed over the coming months and will be in place by the kickoff of the Bills 2021 season in September. The Buffalo Bills will host a ceremony today with Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York to celebrate the partnership. The event will be streamed live on the Bills’ social media channels.

The Western New York National Cemetery is open and accepting donations of interment flags for their Avenue of Flags program. To donate your interment flag to be flown in memory and in honor of your loved one or for more information contact 585-344-4295 or info@bataviafuneralhomes.com. Of the 143 national cemeteries in the United States, only three are participating in the Avenue of Flags program, including the Western New York National Cemetery.

The national average price of gas is down two cents this week, while New York’s didn’t change. Batavia prices dropped a penny from last week to $2.84. The New York average is $2.91/gallon; One year ago, the national average was $2.02 and New York’s was $2.34. Triple-A says growing stock levels have helped to put downward pressure on pump prices.

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments have Pfizer and Moderna vaccination clinics with appointments available for Genesee and Orleans counties’ residents. Whichever COVID-19 vaccine is available is the right vaccine to get now! All approved vaccines are effective and saves lives.

Since Friday, Genesee County reports 34 new COVID cases. Twenty of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. Two infected people are hospitalized. One of the new positive individuals is a resident of the New York State Veteran’s Home at Batavia. Orleans County reports 11 new cases with one hospitalization. Four of the new positive individuals are inmates of the Albion Correctional Facility. Meanwhile, 18 new cases have been reported in Wyoming County since Friday. Twenty-seven people are in mandatory isolation. Forty-nine people have died from virus-related complications.

Embattled Governor Andrew Cuomo is facing another accuser. This one is a resident of Western New York who says the state elected official made her uncomfortable – in her own home. Sherry Vill claims Cuomo made her uncomfortable when he kissed her on the cheek in front of her husband and son during a 2017 tour of flood damage to her home near Lake Ontario. Vill says she is not pressing charges but is willing to participate in the New York Attorney General’s investigation into the governor.

St. Paul Lutheran School announces that they will be adding sixth grade, beginning with the 2021-2022 academic year. The school is currently accepting registrations for preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds, as well as kindergarten through sixth-grade. The school is located at 31 Washington Ave. in the City of Batavia.

Governor Cuomo announced that starting tomorrow all New Yorkers 30 and over are eligible to receive the COVID vaccine.  Starting April 6^th all New Yorkers 16 and up will be eligible.  The governor says, to date, more than nine million vaccine dosages have been administered statewide – two million of those at mass vaccination sites run jointly by the state and FEMA. More than a million have been administered in the past week.  New York’s positivity rate currently stands at 4.13% as of Monday, with more than 4,500 people hospitalized for the virus.

Oak Orchard Health which has a branch on West Main Street has been awarded 3.7 million dollars form the American Rescue Plan Act.  These funds will be used to: expand COVID-19 vaccinations, testing, and treatment for vulnerable populations; deliver preventive and primary health care services to people at higher risk for COVID-19; and expand health centers’ operational capacity during the coronavirus pandemic and beyond, including modifying and improving physical infrastructure and adding mobile units.

St. Paul Lutheran School located on Washington Ave in Batavia is adding 6^th grade beginning with the 2021-2022 academic year.  They are currently accepting registrations for preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds, as well as kindergarten through sixth-grade.

Gas prices are up just a bit in Batavia and down across the country.  In Batavia the price per gallon of regular is up 1 penny to 2.84 while the New York average is the same from last week.  The National average is down 2 cents to 2.86.  Gasbuddy predicts that gas prices will fluctuate because of the Suez canal blockage last week and over the weekend.

The Genesee County Health Departments says it has a supply of both the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines.
And, they have appointments available in both Genesee and Orleans Counties.
The vaccine is now available for people 50 and over. Both the Pfizer and Moderna is a 2-series dose.
In Genesee County, the vaccination clinic is held at the GCC Athletic Center and in Orleans County shots are available at the Ridgeway Fire Hall in Medina.
You still need an appointment.  This is the link to make an appointment: 

Village of Oakfield residents: This one is for you. A public Hearing is scheduled for the proposed Village Budget and Proposed increases in water and sewer rates. There are no increases in salaries for the mayor and village trustees. The hearing will take place on Monday, April 12 at 6:30p.m.

Our weekly gasoline price report:
Batavia: the average prices for a gallon regular is down a penny from last week…but still up 40-cents from a year ago.
The numbers are according to Triple-A.

By the end of the week, New York could become the 15th state in the country to legalize recreational marijuana. The law would allow people 21 and older to possess a small amount of the drug, however retail sales likely wouldn’t begin for up to two years. It’s projected marijuana legalization could bring in an additional $350-million in tax revenue to the state each year. The Legislature is expected to vote on the measure in the coming days and if passed it would likely be signed by Governor Cuomo shortly after.

The Buffalo Sabres will be back at home tonight following their recent road trip and they’ll be trying to avoid tying an NHL record. Buffalo is set to host their fellow East Division rivals the Philadelphia Flyers at KeyBank Center. Should the Sabres lose, they’d tie the mark set by the 2003-2004 Pittsburgh Penguins with 18 consecutive losses. The last time Buffalo won a game was February 23rd against the New Jersey Devils.

A Rochester woman will appear in court next week following what deputies say was an alcohol-fueled vehicle crash in Bergen. Sheriff’s deputies said that 22-year-old Cynthia McKnight of Avenue D allegedly failed to yield for a stop sign, causing her vehicle to go off the road and into a field. There were no injuries. McKnight was charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated with a blood alcohol content of .18% or more as well as failing to stop at a stop sign. She was directed to Town of Bergen court April 7^th.

VA Western New York Healthcare System says it has now tallied its 20,000^th COVID-19 vaccination. The milestone includes the vaccination of enrolled and eligible Veterans, Homeland Security employees and VA health care staff. Enrolled U.S. Army Veteran Kanesha Hicks, who deployed to Afghanistan with her Military Police unit, was the 20,000^th person to receive their first of two Pfizer vaccinations from the VA System. In the coming weeks, the new SAVE LIVES ACT legislation will authorize access to COVID-19 vaccinations for those not currently enrolled or eligible for VA health care.

New York is taking a major step toward legalizing marijuana. The State Assembly and Senate will take up a bill next week that would allow for personal possession of up to 3 ounces and legalize recreational weed. Despite his ongoing scandals, state leaders say they have now reached an agreement with Governor Cuomo to legalize marijuana for people over the age of 21. Municipalities can opt out of sales.

A man remains in the Genesee County Jail today. Batavia police arrested 28-year-old Andrew Roberts, charging him in in three separate bench warrants issued by City Court. He was arraigned and remanded to jail. He’ll return to court April 28^th.

A Williamsville man accused of violating an order of protection has been arrested on multiple counts. Deputies allege that 32-year-old Peter Mancuso went to a home on Roberts Road in Alabama and caused damage to a door, which violated the protection order. He was arraigned and released on his own recognizance. A full stay-away order was issued.

A Batavia man is facing charges after allegedly being caught with a firearm on school grounds earlier this month. City police say 32-year-old Emery Green allegedly had a firearm on Batavia City School District property. He is charged with criminal possession of a weapon. Green was arraigned virtually in Batavia City Court by Judge Durin Rogers and was released on his own recognizance. Additional court action is set for April 13^th.

This is National Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Day. The annual observation will be conducted at the Botts Fiorito American Legion Post this afternoon at 5 p.m. The ceremony will take place outside at the Flagpole. The Auxiliary President will offer a reading in memory of three area servicemen who gave the ultimate sacrifice. They are Gary Scott, Harry Van Alst and George Fry. Following the remembrance reading, a wreath will be placed in memory of their service to this community, state and nation.

Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren has a plan for what to do with the money from legal recreational Marijuana if and when it gets approved.  She has proposed using it to fund reparations to bridge the wealth gap between people of color and whites.  She proposes creating a universal basic income program for Black and Brown people or a home ownership program that would work in formerly redlined areas.  Warren compared the program ideas to tax breaks and incentives for large companies and real estate developers.  Evanston Illinois recently began a similar program with households being eligible to receive up to 25 thousand dollars for home repairs or paying off loans or late penalties.

The two teens who allegedly set a man on fire on his porch on Lyle Ave in Rochester have been indicted on murder and arson charges.  14 year old Adriel Riley and 16 year old Zayvion Perry are indicted on two counts of second-degree murder and one count each of fourth-degree arson and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Riley is charged as a juvenile offender.  They are accused of dousing 53 year old Steven Amenhauser with a flammable liquid and then setting him on fire, he died 4 days later in the URMC Trauma Burn Unit at Strong.

COVID Update: Genesee county has 7 new cases and 24 people have recovered.  Orleans County has 4 new cases and 2 people have recovered.  There are 54 active cases in Genesee county and 37 in Orleans.  Tracking the vaccine in Genesee county just over 8 thousand people have had both doses and in Orleans county just over 43 hundred people are fully vaccinated.  New York State has vaccinated 14.1 percent of residents which makes us 40^th in the nation in percentage of the state population fully vaccinated.  Number 1 is New Mexico with 21.5 percent.

If you missed it on Friday the Genesee Symphony Orchestra concert in tribute to Bob Knipe recording is available on our news partner the Batavian.  This hour long concert is to honor Mr. Knipe who was a member, board member and active community musician for many years.

The wind on Friday knocked out power to more than 36 thousand people across western New York with gusts recorded as high as 70 mile per hour.  Genesee, Niagara, Chautauqua and Erie Counties were the hardest hit.  National Grid deployed more than 13 hundred workers and had restored power to 97 percent of households by 9pm Friday night.

If you live in low income housing that was built before 1978 and have a child under 6 or there is an expectant mother living there and also have lead paint there is money to get rid of the lead in your home.  The Genesee Orleans county health department has received a grant of 1.3 million dollars to deal with lead based paint hazards in residential buildings in Genesee and Orleans counties.  For information call 585 344 2580 or visit the Genesee County Health Department website.

The Excelsior pass for events such as weddings and venues such as movie theaters, stadiums and arenas was just announced by Governor Cuomo.  This vaccine passport app on your phone is a free and voluntary way to prove you are vaccinated or have recently had a negative covid test via a qr code which will be read at the door.  Cuomo says that this app can be used to gain entry to events which would normally be above the gathering size limit.  You can download the app for android or iOS.

The New York State Attorney Generals office is calling for an investigation into Governor Cuomo over preferential covid testing for high ranking officials and Cuomo’s family members.  AG Letitia James wants state ethics investigators to get involved.

The Genesee County Economic Development Center has approved Plug Powers project for the STAMP facility neat Alabama NY.  They are hoping that the investments by the green energy company into the infrastructure, jobs and facility itself will bring much needed development and revenue to the area.  GCDEC also approved incentives for a new solar farm in Elba and Pembroke.

A High Wind Warning is in effect for Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties until 4 this afternoon.
The National Weather Service predicts Southwest Winds of 25 to 40 miles per hour, gusting to 60.
The weather service says potentially damaging winds will down trees and power lines. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
National Grid is making preparations for power failures. The electric utility says has increased staffing in Western New York by 13-hundred workers.

The Board of Western Region OTB, owner of Batavia Downs, has approved nearly 400-thousand dollars to fix up Park Road in front the track.
The work will include new street lighting and landscaping.
The project is expected to begin next month.

Western New York restaurateur Russ Salvatore has written a $6,000 dollar check to the Pembroke Varsity Girls basketball team.
The donation to the girls’ annual “Shooting for a Cure” campaign brings the 10 year total fundraising to $200,000 dollars
The proceeds benefit Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

Genesee County COVID cases from over the past day:
24 new positive cases reported. Three more inmates at the county jail have tested positive.

Visitor restrictions at all New York nursing homes are being eased.
The State has announced that visitation is now allowed at all times and for all residents. Exceptions include unvaccinated residents in areas of high community spread and residents with confirmed COVID infections.

The Buffalo Sabres have lost 16th consecutive games– a franchise record. They lost to Pittsburgh Wednesday and Thursday nights. Sabres General Manager Kevyn Adams coached the team last night. This came after interim head coach Don Granato was ordered to self-isolate as part of COVID-19 protocols.