Local News

The New York vaccination rate is increasing as COVID-19 infections are decreasing. However, Governor Cuomo says it is not a time for New Yorkers to let their guards down. On Tuesday in New York, nearly 2,200 new COVID cases were confirmed with 264 more people admitted to hospitals statewide. The governor says…while the light at the end of the tunnel has never been brighter, this war isn’t over.

Former New York Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver has been released from a federal prison on furlough, while he awaits potential placement to home confinement. That’s according to The Associated Press. Silver was serving his more than six-year sentence at a federal prison in Otisville, New York, in a corruption case. The 77-year-old began serving his sentence in August after years of fending off going behind bars. He has a projected release date from federal custody in 2026.

The Alexander Town Board has planned a public hearing next week regarding a Local Law to establish Zoning Codes to regulate Large Scale Solar Systems. The hearing will be held at the town Hall Monday at 7:05p.m. Written comments will be accepted prior to that date. A copy of the Local Law is on file at the Town Hall for review.

GOP state legislators are calling for immediate improvements for New York’s unemployment system. More than a year after the start of the pandemic, they’re calling for the state to address what they say are ongoing issues – while also providing assistance to citizens who had issues accessing benefits. Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt says “At a moment when every New Yorker needed government to be there on a critical issue, we did not meet the challenge.”

A Wyoming County man is facing federal child porn charges. 59-year-old Ronald Longhini is charged with receipt and possession of child pornography. On Jan. 21, prosecutors say undercover investigators identified an IP address, later traced to Longhini’s Warsaw address, downloading suspected child porn from a peer-to-peer sharing network. They say similar videos were downloaded in the following two months. In April, they say several digital devices were seized from Longhini’s home during a search. Longhini made an initial appearance in court Tuesday afternoon and is being held ahead of a detention hearing later this week. If convicted, he could face five to 20 years in prison.

Genesee County reports 16 new positive cases of COVID-19. Twenty of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. Five of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. Meanwhile, officials in Orleans County report a dozen more cases. Eight of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. Two of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.

The alleged scammers who were caught in Monroe county after scamming people in Genesee county and in other areas of the finger lakes region almost escaped again.  After being caught and subsequently released with an appearance ticket the scammers, 18 year old Jamel Aciego and 20 year old Victor Andres were caught again at the Buffalo Airport attempting to board a flight to Miami.  Chief Deputy Michael Fowler says there was no chance that they were going to stand trial for the over 100 thousand dollars they scammed out of grandparents or the car chase they lead police on.   Ogden Police Chief Mears says that without bail laws “When you remove that from a judge’s toolbox, it puts the public at risk.”

The Memorial day Parade is set to run from Eastown Plaza to Alva place on Monday May 31^st and all community organizations and veterans are welcome to participate.  In order to participate if you are an organization all you have to do is let the City councilman Bob Bialkowski know by calling 585 409 3624.  Veterans can simply show up at 9:15am at East Town Plaza.

The Sabres have been victorious over the Islanders 4 to 2.  Michael Houser, in his first game with the Buffalo team made 34 saves.  Sabres were 0 and 2 in the second period then Thompson, Asplund and Reinhart scored to get the win.  There are 3 games left in the season for the Sabres and their next game is against the Islanders tonight and then 2 away games against the Penguins in Pittsburg.

The casualties of the coronavirus pandemic are far and wide. Mercy Flight Inc.’s air and ground emergency transport operation has taken a significant financial hit due to COVID-19 and continues to deal with challenges in other areas, including the safety and protection of its first responders and the ongoing effort to fairly compensate these skilled emergency medical technicians and paramedics. Those were the take-away points as the agency’s director of medical operations reported to the Genesee County Legislature’s Human Services Committee meeting. In Genesee County, Mercy Flight received 143 requests for helicopter ambulance service during its fiscal year, resulting in 76 transports. Fifty-six of the requests were deemed not necessary and 11 were canceled due to poor weather conditions. A change from Visual Flight Rules to Instrument Flight Rules will enable Mercy Flight to increase its weather-related capabilities. In legislative action, the committee approved an allocation of $12,825 for this year to support Mercy Flight.

Residents are urged to light their homes and social media in “red” today in recognition of International Firefighters’ Day. The role of all firefighters, both volunteer and paid, has never been more important. International Firefighters’ Day was established in 1999. The international recognition falls within National Arson Awareness Week – also an important time to reflect on the selfless dedication of firefighters.

Governor Cuomo has announced $15 million in funding is available for the state cooling assistance program. The initiative provides air conditioning to low-income New Yorkers who suffer from serious health issues exacerbated by heat. Beginning now eligible families can apply under a fist come first serve basis and applications will be open through August 30th, or until funding runs out. Nearly 30,000 New York households have benefited from cooling assistance over the last 5 years.

The New York State Senate and Assembly passed legislation Monday night that extends the COVID-19 Emergency Eviction Moratorium. The bill protects tenants and small business owners from being evicted under certain circumstances. The extension will now go until August 31. The bill is headed to Gov. Andrew Cuomo for his signature.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced that more than 7 million New Yorkers are now fully vaccinated. 91,035 doses have been administered across the state’s vast distribution network in the last 48 hours, and more than 1.1 million doses have been administered over the past seven days.

Nominations are being accepted for the 2021 BCSD Foundation Inc. Scholarship. This scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior from Batavia High School. Any member of the local community may nominate a Batavia HS senior. All nominations need to be received by May 21.

Beginning May 19, COVID capacity restrictions will be lifted at a number of New York businesses. Gov. Andrew Cuomo said this is part of a major reopening effort set to begin in a few weeks, in accordance with neighboring states Connecticut and New Jersey. This impacts a number of different locations and services, including restaurants, gyms, museums, retail stores, theaters, offices and amusement parts and outdoor entertainment locations. Also beginning on May 19, outdoor large stadium capacity in New York state will expand to 33%. The outdoor curfew on food and beverage service will be lifted two days earlier, on May 17. The indoor curfew will be lifted on May 31.

After a lengthy scandal-induced media silence, WNY Congressman Tom Reed has issued a press release…and it’s an important one for area eateries. Rep. Reed provided constituents with new information regarding the opening of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund through the Small Business Administration.  He urges eligible businesses to apply to this program, which aims to help restaurants and other impacted businesses keep their doors open throughout the pandemic. Reed said while he didn’t support the plan, “this program is critical to the small businesses across the district.” Funds will not need to be paid back by the businesses if the funds are used in the correct manner by March 11, 2023.

Governor Cuomo announced today a plan to lift nearly all capacity restrictions across the state.  He says that these are coordinated with New Jersey and
Connecticut.  Starting May 19^th retail, food service, gyms and fitness centers, amusement and family entertainment, hair salons, barber shops, offices, museums and theaters will have their capacity restrictions lifted.  The 6 foot social distancing rules will still need to be followed.

The Gates Police chief is fed up with what he calls a pandemic of violence.  And it has effected Batavia.  The carjackings that plagued Rochester and were linked to 2 teenagers for some of them started in Batavia where a black infinity was stolen and then used in some of the Rochester carjackings.  The perpetrators were finally chased down in Genesee county after the death of a 71 year old man in a carjacking in Gates.  The families of the perpetrators and some of the victims refused to cooperate with police, a poster with their names and faces was eventually put up which lead to arrests.  Police Chief James VanBrederode referenced the daily shootings and murders in Rochester and says that “this is a people problem and the people have to rise up to make the streets not look like a warzone.”

The Rochester Jazz Festival will not happen this year due to Covid.  It had been set to go on July 30^th through August 7^th at RIT.  If you already bought tickets they can either be refunded or traded in for 2022 or 2023 passes.

Gas is up 1 penny in Batavia to 2.89 for a gallon of regular.  The National average is 2.90 and the NYS average is 2.95.  There is an increase in demand and Gasbuddy.com predicts we will see prices topping 3 dollars in the near future.

Vince Neil of Motley Crue has been added to the lineup of concert headliners for this summer at Batavia Downs.  He is performing June 18^th.  Tickets are already on sale for all other Rockin’ the Downs Concerts, tickets for Vince Neil will go on sale today, May 3rd at noon at www.BataviaConcerts.com.

The Genesee County Economic Development Center Board of Directors will consider approving incentives for projects proposing $13.5 million of new investments at its May 6 board meeting.  Forefront Power LLC is proposing to invest $9.7 million to build a 5 megawatt community solar project on Norton Road in the Town of Elba. The project would generate approximately $519 thousand in new revenue to Genesee County, the Town of Elba, and the Elba Central School District over the proposed 15-year agreement.  Also Batavia Special Needs Apartments LP is proposing to invest $3.75 million to add 20 living units to an existing special needs housing campus on East Main Street in the City of Batavia. Batavia Special Needs Apartments LP is seeking approximately $772,000 in sales and property tax exemptions.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is requesting assistance from the public in identifying the subject pictured below.  The subject has been developed as a person of interest in relation to a property crime being investigated in the Town of Alabama.  The subject appears to have a tattoo on his right forearm.  If you have any information, we urge you to please contact Investigator Ryan DeLong at 585-345-3000 ext. 3572

The Sabres lost to the Bruins for the 4^th time in a row on Saturday afternoon.  It was a 6 to 2 loss for Buffalo.   They play against the Islanders tonight at 7pm.

Batavia Downs has added Vince Neil to the line-up of this summer’s Rockin’ the Downs concert series.
Neil was the lead singer with the legendary rock band “Motley Crue.”
Neil is scheduled to perform on Friday, June 18th.
Tickets went on sale at Noon today.
Concert goers must be 21 of older. A limit of four tickets per person will be enforced. You will also need proof of a negative COVID test or proof of a complete vaccination.
Social distancing will be enforced. Masks must be work when standing.
The capacity for all Batavia Downs concerts this summer will be limited to 25-hundred people, unless state guidance changes.

This week the Genesee County Health Department has a ‘One & Done’ single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccination clinic.
Appointments may be made and walk-ins are also available targeting those who are 18 and older and are residents of New York State, work here or go to school here.
The GCC location will offer the Johnson and Johnson vaccine this Wednesday from 9 until 11.
A special clinic will be offered at the Genesee County Office for the Aging on Wednesday from 1:30 to 3:30 in the afternoon.
We have a lin on our website to make an appointment

A Genesee County woman faces a two-count indictment including a charge of second-degree attempted murder.
49-year-old Colleen Nelson of the Town of Alabama was also indictment for criminal possession of a weapon. Authorities allege that on July 29th Nelson attempted to stab a co-worker

For the second year in a row, a popular local event is being canceled due to ongoing concerns surrounding the coronavirus. Organizers of the Finger Lakes Wine Festival say they still believe it’s not safe to hold a large-scale event right now. The festival was scheduled to take place July 9th through 11th at Watkins Glen International. Ticket holders will get full credit for the amount they paid plus an additional 20-percent.

This week the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) have ‘One & Done’ single dose Johnson & Johnson Janssen (J&J) vaccination clinics with appointments and walk-ins available targeting those who are 18 and older and open for any New York State individuals, who reside, work or study in the state.

“With proms, graduations, weddings, fairs, etc. getting the J&J vaccine now means that two weeks after the date of your shot you are considered fully vaccinated,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health.  “It takes more planning to get the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines as they are two doses and it will take 2 weeks following the second dose to be fully vaccinated which would be 5-6 more weeks before you can participate in large events without the time and expense of testing.  To learn more about the safety of the J&J COVID-19 vaccine please visit the CDC https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/different-vaccines/janssen.html.  We encourage everyone to talk with their primary care provider if they have concerns about any of the vaccines.  With the options we currently have we continue to encourage everyone who is able to get vaccinated with the vaccine they are comfortable receiving.”

All clinics offer walk-in opportunities; however, we encourage you to register via the vaccination webpage:    or use the vaccine registration help lines below, and choose the appropriate J&J link.

• The GCC clinic is scheduled for Wednesday, May 5^th from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
• Special Clinic – Genesee County Office for the Aging, downtown Batavia is scheduled for Wednesday, May 5^th from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• The Ridgeway Fire Hall clinic is scheduled for Thursday May 6^th from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
• Special Clinic – Orleans County Health Department is scheduled for Friday, May 7^th from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon.

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. 

“We continue to see positive cases in unvaccinated individuals and it will continue as we work toward getting more of our population vaccinated,” stated Pettit.  “There are plenty of options to get any of the three vaccines offered.  For your health and the health of others we encourage everyone who is able to be vaccinated to get vaccinated now.”

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

If you are a business/church/organization that is interested in hosting a vaccination clinic at your location, please fill out the survey:  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GOHealthPopUpVaccineClinic.  One of our staff members will be in contact with you.

For those who are seeking testing, both health departments provide limited free rapid testing for those without symptoms at the respective Health Departments.  For Genesee County, a rapid test drive-through clinic is scheduled for May 6^th at County Building #2, 3837 West Main St. Road, Batavia.  For Orleans County, a rapid test clinic is scheduled for May 5^th at the Orleans County Health Department at 14016 Rt. 31 West, Albion.

To register for testing go to the GO Health testing page:  and choose your preferred clinic location.

Fire strikes a home in Bennington overnight. Smoke and flames were visible at the property located at 368 Route 77 between Church Road and the Genesee County line. Fire Departments from Bennington, Cowlesville, Sheldon, Attica Alexander and Darien all responded. No word on the cause.

A Genesee County woman faces a two-count indictment to include a top charge of second-degree attempted murder. 49-year-old Colleen Nelson of Alabama was also indicted for criminal possession of a weapon. Authorities allege that on July 29^th Nelson attempted to kill a co-worker by stabbing the person.

New York’s statewide COVID positivity rate has dropped to 1.49%, the lowest since October 28th. The governor says the numbers are trending in the right direction. The Finger Lakes Region reports 201 COVID-related hospitalizations.

A Genesee County Grand Jury has handed up a five-count indictment against a Stafford man. His top counts are felony assault. He allegedly injured a police officer who was attempting to arrest him. The incident happened last October in the City of Batavia.

A Batavia woman is facing charges following a vehicle crash on Byron Road in Stafford. Genesee County deputies arrested 44-year-old Heather Ann Larock. After the crash she was charged with DWI, moving from a lane unsafely and speed not reasonable and prudent. Larock is scheduled to appear in Stafford court on June 1^st.

A state Appellate court has rejected a request from a Genesee County man to have his sex offender risk level reduced. In a four-page decision, the court noted some errors previously made by lower courts. In the end, the Justices said that John R. Chrisley is in the middle of the range for risk level two, and his history does not warrant a reduction to the lowest possible risk level.

Seabreeze Amusement Park plans to reopen later this month. Making the announcement on Facebook, the park plans to open May 22. Masks are required at all times while in the park, and guests must purchase tickets in advance.

A Philadelphia man who wanted his conviction to attempted forgery tossed…has lost his appeal. His conviction resulted from his 2018 arrest at Darien Lake. An attorney for Ernest Smith argued that the waiver of indictment was defective. In a short, single-page ruling, the Appellate Court disagreed and upheld the conviction.

A 71-year-old Monroe County woman was nearly a bail scam victim. But the grandmother wasn’t quick to give up her cash and did some detective work on her own. Deputies later took two people into custody as part of the scam operation. Investigators have warned about this scheme in recent weeks, saying they have gotten phone calls about elderly victims in the greater Rochester area. The suspects are believed to be tied to other similar cases in Erie and Genesee counties, as well as other states. Deputies recommend talking with relatives and loved ones about these scams and alerting them of when to call police.

It was announced Friday that hair salons, barber shops and other personal care businesses can increase their capacity to 75 percent starting May 7^th.  The previous cap had been 50 percent.  Governor Cuomo also announced that he is ending the cluster strategy that he imposed by executive order in 2020 to deal with areas of the state that had higher rates of infection. The areas that still had cluster designations were all in New York City. Cuomo said that New York is winning the war against COVID.

According to popular magazine Food and Wine New York is not the number 1 state for pizza.  Instead that honor falls to New Jersey.  Connecticut is in the number 2 slot and New York comes in third.  The magazine says that the pandemic and rising costs of operating in New York made many of the Empire State’s prime pizza locations either close or move out of state.

Covid update from Friday evening at 4pm:  Genesee county has 9 new cases and 18 people have recovered.  Orleans county has 11 new cases and 15 people have recovered.  There are 69 active cases in Genesee county and 94 in Orleans.  In NY the number of people who have been fully vaccinated still hovers around a third which puts the empire state 12th in the US for highest percentage of people vaccinated.  In Genesee and Orleans counties just over a quarter of residents have been fully vaccinated.  Governor Cuomo says that vaccinations are slowing down even as eligibility and availability are opening up.  He is enlisting schools, businesses, churches and marketing campaigns to try to get people to get the shot.

Last week Genesee county sheriffs warned of a bail scam targeting elderly residents, this week 2 of the scammers will need bail money themselves.  2 suspects in Perinton were arrested when they made contact with a person posing as their grandson’s attorney.  The scammers demanded 13 thousand dollars to bail the grandson out.  The person they were scamming called their actual grandson on the phone and determined it was a scam and then called police.  One suspect, 18 year old Jamel Aciergo, was nabbed at the door, and the other, 20 year old Victor Lopez attempted to drive away and crashed into a marsh off rt 441.  It is currently unknown whether these scammers were also responsible for the calls in Genesee county but the sheriffs department warns the public to be wary and hang up and call police if you get a call asking for bail money.

The new rule about kids having to wear a mask at all times in schools has parents concerned.  CDC guidance says that kids can remove their masks if they are farther than 6 feet away in schools but New York’s new guidelines say that kids must remain masked at all times regardless of distance.  Previously kids could take their masks off at their desks or take “mask breaks” if wearing the mask was too much for them.  A Pavilion parent, Amanda Holley, has started an online petition to protest the guidance.  Superintendent Mary Kate Hoffman says that parents would do better to contact the State Health Department with their concerns.  She says “I would love to see 183 letters go out to our local senators, our representatives, to share those points of view because you’re not alone.  All of the districts in New York State are feeling the same.”

Until 11pm tonight there is a wind advisory for the GLOW region and the rest of Western NY.  Winds of 20 to 30 miles per hour and gusts of up to 50 mph may blow down tree limbs and cause power interruptions.  Debris may be blown into roadways and high profile vehicles may have difficulty or be a risk of tipping.

Governor Cuomo announced today 15 million dollars for low income families to purchase Air Conditioners.  This money is only available for those who have health issues which may be adversely effected by the heat.  Cuomo said “We know there is hot weather ahead of us this summer, and no New Yorker should be left wondering whether they or their loved ones will be safe when temperatures spike.”  There are restrictions on income and which health issues qualify.  Check out the program at mybenefits.ny.gov.

There are clinics available for anyone 18 and older to receive the Johnson and Johnson vaccine which has resumed administration across the US.  This is a single dose vaccine so there won’t be a follow up appointment.  The GCC clinic is scheduled for Wednesday, May 5th from 9:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m.  Genesee County Office for the Aging, downtown Batavia is scheduled for Wednesday, May 5th from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.  The Ridgeway Fire Hall clinic is scheduled for Thursday May 6th from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.  Orleans County Health Department is scheduled for Friday, May 7^th from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon. All clinics are offering walk in vaccinations.

The lost Shitzu Gigi that went missing from her owners home on Wednesday has been found and brought home safely.  Thank you to the community for helping look for her.  The one eyed black and white shitzu puppy oreo that rana way from home on the 6th is still missing.  She was last seen wearing a yellow pikachu outfit.

The Sabres lost last night against the Boston Bruins 5 to 2 out in Boston.  Luukkonen made 35 saves.  Reinhart and Middlestadt scored against the Bruins.  The Sabres play the Bruins again on Saturday afternoon. Puck drop is at 1:00 p.m.

Donna Saskowski

Donna Saskowski, the Executive Director of the Arc of Genesee Orleans, is retiring.
Donna has 32 years with the agency which serves individuals with intellectual and development disabilities.
It was also announced today that the Arc of Genesee Orleans has been given conditional approval to merge with the Arc of Livingston Wyoming.
Reached this morning, Donna tells WBTA that working with the disabled has its own rewards

Saskowski listed the transformation of the former St. Mary’s School into a Community Center for the Arc as a highlight of her career.
So what will the merger with Livingston-Wyoming mean..?

Donna’s retirement will become effective the end of June.

Genesee County reports seven new COVID cases and nine new hospitalizations. Thirteen more cases have been confirmed in Orleans County with three more people admitted to the hospital. Meanwhile, in Wyoming County, a dozen more cases were confirmed.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is warning of seasonal asphalt paving and sealing scams.
As the weather warms, paving projects will soon begin. Residents should be cautious if they are solicited by who appears to be a contractor offering to pave or seal a driveway. The Sheriff’s Office has already fielded one recent complaint in the county.

A former Buffalo Sabres player is retiring. Goaltender Ryan Miller says he will retire after the 2020-2021 season, which he has played with the Anaheim Ducks. He currently holds the franchise record for Sabres games played by a goaltender.

Donna Saskowski

News Release

Retirement is on the horizon for Arc of Genesee Orleans Executive Director Donna Saskowski.  The Darien resident’s summer retirement will cap off a successful 32-year career at the local nonprofit that serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

Donna’s first position at Arc of Genesee Orleans was part-time Residential Training Instructor, working in the Supportive Apartment program 23 hours/week.  Donna didn’t have a lot of experience working with people with disabilities and admits she didn’t know what to expect.  “It only took a day or two to realize this was going to be my life’s work,” the Executive Director shared.

Over the years, Donna has held several positions at Arc including Rehab Counselor, Residential Coordinator, Social Worker and Day Habilitation Program Coordinator.  She became Executive Director in April 2004 and has overseen substantial growth in the residential and day habilitation programs, the privatization of Arc Collection Services and the successful merger with the Orleans Chapter in 2016.

One of Donna’s career highlights was the purchase and remodeling of the former St. Mary’s School, transforming it into the Arc of Genesee Orleans Community Center.  “The successful capital campaign to fund the project really hit home the generosity and love people have for our community, agency and especially, the people we support and their families,” she said.

In addition to her work at Arc of Genesee Orleans, Donna is very active in the community as a member of the Batavia Rotary Club and is Assistant Governor for Rotary District 7090.  She is a member of the United Way Board of Directors, Collaborative of the Finger Lakes, Developmental Disabilities Alliance of Western New York and the Executive Directors Association of The Arc New York.

Donna received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of Buffalo.  She is a member of the Leadership Genesee Class of 2005, was named a 2006 Leadership Fellow of the Community Health Foundation of Western New York and was awarded Social Worker of the Year in 2010 by the Western Division NYS Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers.   In 2011 she was named Geneseean of the Year by the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce.

When asked what’s next, Donna thoughtfully replied, “tending my gardens and canning fruits and vegetables – two things I love to do.”  She added, “I will also continue my community involvement through volunteering.”

Donna and her husband Paul live in Darien, just down the road from the family farm where Donna grew up.  They have two daughters, Tracey and Karen.

In response to the retirement announcement, Arc of Genesee Orleans Board President Debrah Fischer said Donna has been a strong advocate for Arc of Genesee Orleans, its programs, people served, employees, and the community.  “She has positioned this agency for the future and we will continue to deliver excellent services to individuals and their families,” she said.  “On behalf of the board of directors, we wish Donna all the best in her upcoming retirement and look forward to working with her as a community volunteer,“ the Board President said.

 It was announced earlier this week that following several months of meeting, negotiating, and work with The Arc New York, “conditional approval” has been granted for the Genesee Orleans and Livingston-Wyoming Chapters to merge. This is the first step to move more formally to a fully integrated organization.

Although this process may take several more months, the end product will be a 4-county wide organization.  The new agency will use consolidated resources to ensure quality services to all people with I/DD and their families from the GLOW region.

Rain or shine, the Genesee County Master Gardeners will once again be hosting their annual Spring Garden Gala on Saturday, May 15, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Genesee County office, located at 420 E. Main St. in Batavia. This annual plant sale features a variety of perennials, many of which are from the gardens of Master Gardeners. There will also be a selection of house plants. Plant sale starts promptly at 10 a.m. on the front lawn of the Extension office.

More than 15 million COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered in New York State, and approximately one in three New Yorkers are now fully vaccinated. As of now, all New York State mass vaccination sites are open to eligible New Yorkers for walk-in vaccination on a first come first serve basis for all. The walk-in appointments are reserved for first doses only with second doses to be scheduled automatically after administration of the initial shot.

Genesee County reports seven new COVID cases and nine new hospitalizations. Thirteen more cases have been confirmed in Orleans County with three more people admitted to the hospital. Meanwhile, in Wyoming County, a dozen more cases were confirmed.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is warning of seasonal asphalt paving and sealing scams. As the weather warms, paving projects will soon begin. Residents should be cautious if they are solicited by who appears to be a contractor offering to pave or seal a driveway. The Sheriff’s Office has already fielded one recent complaint in the county.

Governor Andrew Cuomo defending his position on how his office counted nursing home deaths during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cuomo is accused of withholding the numbers of people who died in nursing homes, for fear that it would be politicized by the Trump Administration. Cuomo says he doesn’t deny that the deaths would have been politicized by the former President, but also says the way to count nursing home deaths is more nuanced than people think, especially if a nursing home resident died in a hospital.

The SUNY system announced Thursday it will be adopting the new CDC masking guidelines. Under those guidelines, people who are fully vaccinated can gather outdoors without wearing masks, except in certain crowded settings and venues. Masking is still required for students and instructors in all classroom settings, as well as during commencement events, as they are still considered large gatherings. The new rule goes into effect immediately.

There are 5 garden plots at the Batavia Community Garden up for grabs after a garden minded individual paid for them to be given to the first 5 people that want them.  To inquire call Janice Smith at 585 345 6325.

St Paul Lutheran Church and School is doing a scrap metal drive this Saturday to benefit the school scholarship fund.  If you have extra scrap metal or large metal appliances you can bring it to the parking lot at St Paul or call the school at 585 343 0488 to request someone come on Saturday to pick it up from your home.

Overnight camps are allowed to operate this summer with a few changes.  Face masks, smaller numbers of campers in cabins, and reduced capacity will all need to be practiced for a camp to operate.  There are several camps within an hour of Batavia that are planning full Summer programs.  Many are church affiliated.

The City of Batavia is about to undertake a water service replacement project on Swan, Hutchins and Otis Streets.
Construction will begin this Monday, May 3rd.
During the project Swan, Hutchins and Otis will experience local traffic only from 7am to 5pm.
“No Parking” signs will be posted in affected areas each day.
The project is expected to be completed by July 15th.

An area school principal has pleaded not guilty to charges that claim he sexually abused several students. Police arrested Kirk Ashton earlier this month after an investigation revealed he sexually abused children while working at Northwood Elementary School. He was recently indicted by a Monroe County grand jury on 25 counts including child endangerment and sexual abuse.

Both chambers of the New York State Legislature have voted to overturn three executive orders Governor Cuomo issued in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. One requirement no longer in place means that restaurants don’t have to serve food to people who order alcoholic beverages.

The Buffalo Bills will be looking to improve their roster during tonight’s NFL Draft. The Bills have the 30th overall pick in the first round and experts are predicting they could either choose a running back or select a player to help out their defense. The Bills finished 13-and three last year, good enough to win the AFC East and make the playoffs.

We have a BOLO out for a lost dog, a female Golden Shitzu
Her name is Gigi. He went missing from her home when her owner had to be taken to the hospital.
Her neighborhood is around North and Vine Streets.
When last seen Gigi was wearing a stylish purple sweater with a pink collar.
If you have Gigi or think you have seen her, call us here at WBTA and will try to get her back home.

A traffic stop ended with a half-dozen felony and lesser counts for a Batavia man. State troopers arrested 59-year-old David Martin. He was charged with felony counts of DWI and first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation. He was also charged with criminal impersonation, resisting arrest, obstruction and circumventing and ignition interlock device. He’ll appear in city court at a later date.

Gov. Cuomo has announced changes to curfews for indoor and outdoor dining. Beginning May 17th, the 12 a.m. food and beverage service curfew will be lifted for outdoor dining areas. However, for indoor dining, you have another month, scheduled to be lifted on May 31st. For catered events, the 1 a.m. curfew for catered events where attendees have provided proof of vaccination status or a recent negative COVID-19 test result will be lifted beginning May 17, with the curfew for all catered events set to be lifted May 31.

Officials at Batavia Downs have announced that in preparation for the Kentucky Derby running this weekend, they will be staffing several locations throughout the gaming facility so that guests may place wagers. The Kentucky Derby is at 6:57 p.m. on Saturday. Free Derby Programs will be available at Batavia Downs, all OTB Branches and all EZ Bet locations. Face coverings are required at all OTB Branches. Visitors to Batavia Downs must have a face covering and have their temperature taken prior to entry. The Park Place Room at Batavia Downs will open on Friday from noon until 6 p.m. for guests to place advance wagers. On Saturday Park Place will open at 10 a.m. and be open until 7:30 p.m. Capacity limitations and social distancing will be enforced at all location.

The City of Batavia has contracted a water service replacement project on Swan, Hutchins and Otis streets starting on Monday. This will run until approximately July 15. During the project, these streets will open to local traffic only from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m. and will have parking restrictions that will vary day to day. Temporary “No Parking” signs will be posted in the areas affected each day.The contractors will do their best to keep driveways open and traffic flowing.

Parole reform is the new objective for the New York State Legislature. Last week, the assembly passed a bill that gives parolees the ability to register to vote no matter their crime. That bill is currently waiting to be signed into law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, and there are two more parole-focused bills on the docket that state Democrats hope to pass this year. There’s the elder parole bill, which would allow people 55 and older who have served 15 years in prison the chance to go before a parole board. The other bill, the Fair and Timely Parole bill, focuses on changing the standards of parole, basing release on a person’s rehabilitation while incarcerated not on the original crime.

Genesee County reports 18 new cases of COVID-19. Eleven of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. In Orleans County, 21 new positive cases have been confirmed. Four of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. The Wyoming County Health Department has identified 14 new cases.

Governor Cuomo announced today that the curfew for restaurants will be lifted in May. Outdoor dining can stay open late starting on May 17^th and indoor dining can remain open starting May 31^st.  The catered event 1 am curfew for events where all attendees have been vaccinated will be lifted starting on the 17^th and all catered events will have their curfew lifted on May 31^st.

Residential catered events will be allowed to go above the state gathering limit with a restriction that they must be catered by a licensed caterer starting May 3rd.  Also on May 3^rd dancing will be allowed to move to masked and with social distancing instead of in designated zones and only between people who are in the same party.  This is more in keeping with what other states are doing.

Browns Mill Road will be closed for about 2 weeks as a Culvert is replaced at the intersection of West Bethany and Browns Mill Road.  The work will not affect traffic on West Bethany Road.

May 14^th and May 15^th the Gas and Steam Show Grounds will be doing Drive in Movies.  Cost is 25 dollars a vehicle.  Sorry no RV’s, Busses or Limos.  There will be food and drink available to purchase.  The movie for the 14^th at 7pm will be the Goonies and the 15^th will be the Animated Disney Aladdin movie. Tickets are available starting Saturday on www.alexandersteamshow.com.

The Buffalo Sabres lost to the New York Rangers last night 3 to 1 with Sabres rookie goal tender Luukonen stopping 38 shots compared to Shesterkin blocking 36 of the Sabres shots.  Reinhart scored the Sabres lone goal.  The Sabres have 6 games remaining in the season.  Their next game is in Boston against the Bruins at 7 tomorrow night.

New York is adopting the latest CDC guidelines regarding mask usage when outdoors. Governor Cuomo says this means fully vaccinated people can lose the mask when at moderately-sized or smaller outdoor gatherings.
His announcement came about one-hour after the CDC updated their guidelines. Officials still recommend masks for crowded gatherings of any kind, and when indoors.

In the past 24 hours, 23 new cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Genesee County. In Orleans County, ten new cases have been confirmed. Wyoming County reports seven new cases.

Starting tomorrow, all New Yorkers 16 and older will be eligible to walk-in and receive a COVID-19 shot at any state-run vaccination clinic. Officials say the move is going to make it easier for more people to get their vaccinations.

New York State will review legal options to challenge the results of the 2020 Census. Earlier this week, the Census Bureau reported that New York came up 89 people short of keeping its 27 Congressional seats. Now, one of those districts will be eliminated in 2022 and the Empire State is also losing an Electoral College vote.

A new opening act has been announced for the Batavia Downs Concert Series. Almost Queen, featuring genuine costumes, will perform on Friday June 11th. Closing the season will be the American rock band Spin Doctors on August 27th.

Twenty-three new cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Genesee County. Twenty-eight of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list. In Orleans County, ten new cases have been confirmed. Two of the current positive individuals are hospitalized. Meanwhile, Wyoming County health officials report seven new cases.

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand joined Senate colleagues to reintroduce the Medicare at 50 Act, legislation to give New Yorkers between the ages of 50 and 64 years old the option of buying into Medicare. As of July 2020, nearly 3.7 million people aged 65 and older were covered by Medicare in New York. Lowering the Medicare participation age to 50 would help 63 million uninsured and under-insured Americans — including those approaching retirement, or those facing mandatory retirement or layoffs — afford their health care costs. Additionally, the bill would strengthen the Medicare program and lower Medicare costs for older Americans.

State Senator Tom O’Mara has joined the growing chorus of opposition to legislation under consideration that could raise the state’s gas tax by 55 cents. The legislation, known as the “Climate and Community Investment Act,” calls for accelerated state-level actions to achieve climate change policies. It includes a new 55-cents-per-gallon gas tax and increased taxes on heating oil, propane, and natural gas, which is estimated to increase home heating fuel costs by 26%. New Yorkers already pay the third-highest gas taxes in America at 42.7-cents-per-gallon on gasoline and 43.43-cents-per-gallon on diesel. In a statement, the senator said the ink on the new state budget is barely dry and the Democrats are already eyeing their next tax hike opportunities.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced that beginning Thursday, all New York State mass vaccination sites will be Open to eligible New Yorkers for walk-in vaccination on a first come first serve basis for all. The walk-in appointments are reserved for first doses only with second doses to be scheduled automatically after administration of the initial shot. The Governor also announced the mass vaccination site located at 10 Gannett Drive in Johnson City will move inside the building at the same address. The move will allow for increased capacity and will be less impacted by any adverse weather conditions.

Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel has announced some additions to the upcoming Rockin’ the Downs Summer Concert Series. Now kicking off the series on Friday June 11th is Almost Queen. Donning genuine costumes, Almost Queen recaptures the live energy and precision that is the Queen experience. Closing the Summer Concert Series now on Aug. 27th will be American rock band The Spin Doctors, who will be making their Batavia Downs debut.

The New York State Senate plans to vote Wednesday to repeal several executive orders issued by Governor Andrew Cuomo amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the orders being repealed is a mandate that patrons at bars and restaurants order food with the purchase of alcohol. In a released issued Tuesday, state senate Democrats said they plan to vote to reverse the restrictions as a way to get back toward “a sense of normalcy” and “enhance the quality of life for volunteers, patrons, and business owners.”

A bill has passed the New York State Senate and Assembly that would make all new vehicles, both on and off road, sold in the state electric by 2035.  This is part of a drive to make New York green by making all new vehicles in the state zero emissions.  Medium and heavy duty vehicles would need to be electric by 2045.  The bill now goes to Governor Cuomo for signing.  Alongside this bill is another that seeks to discourage carbon use through taxation.  The climate and Community Investment Act could raise gas prices by as much as 55 cents a gallon and home heating costs by 26 percent.  Democrats in the NY Senate are hoping the increased money from taxes could be reinvested into green infrastructure.

Governor Cuomo announced today that starting Thursday all State-run vaccination sites are open to walk in appointments for anyone 16 and up.  Cuomo also had a message for Local vaccination sites.

COVID update: From Friday evening till Monday evening Genesee county has 22 new cases.  1 of the new cases is a resident at the NYS veterans home.  Orleans county has 30 new cases and 38 people have recovered.  There are 84 active cases in Genesee county and 94 in Orleans.

The GLOW YMCA is prepping for a new building and has already reached 11 million dollars towards its goal.  They are asking the community to step up for the last million dollars and have a community challenge, provided by Peter Zeliff, who has said he will match dollar for dollar all donations up to 500 thousand dollars, to reach their goal.  Plans for the new Y facility include a new state-of-the-art wellness center, indoor pool, group exercise studios, and gymnasium with indoor walking/running track, teaching kitchen, indoor playground, youth spaces, living room and meeting rooms. The YMCA’s partnership with United Memorial Medical Center will provide primary care, behavioral health/crisis interventions services, telemedicine integration, cancer prevention outreach services, chronic illness support services and education services all in the same facility.

The Genesee County fair is still in limbo as the Genesee county AG Society is waiting on guidance from the state.  They are hopeful after the news that the New York State Fair will go ahead this summer that the County fair will be July 24^th-31^st.  In A press release the Ag society said “We are hoping that, in the near future, the Governor and his office will be addressing how the county fairs should proceed so that we can move forward with some great entertainment and Livestock shows for our community.”

The home of the Buffalo Bills is going green, and scaly.  Jurassic Quest is setting up shop in Highmark stadium July 16^th-25^th.  Jurassic Quest Drive Thru promises to transform outdoor areas throughout the region into a fun-filled drive-thru experience complete with life-like dinosaurs, baby dino and trainer meet and greets, photo opportunities and a choose-your-own-audio-adventure tour.

The New York law allowing the recreational use of marijuana is still one to two years from going into effect.
The City of Batavia thinks it’s not too soon to think about opting in or out of allowing use of legal weed.
City Council spent about a half hour last night beginning a debate on the subject.
Municipalities have until December 31st of this year to decide.
Council President Gene Jankowski wants to table the issue until more information is released by the state as to how the law will work.

The council held a brief business meeting last night and approved the restoration of two firefighter positions and one police officer position that had been cut from the recently adopted city budget.

New York will lose one seat in Congress as a result of population shifts… according to census data released Monday. The state’s population grew by more than 4 percent over the past decade, according to the 2020 census, but that increase didn’t keep pace with big jumps in other parts of the country. New York is one of seven states losing a member of congress as a result of the 2020 census. Five states will gain a seat in congress. Texas will gain two.

Governor Cuomo continues to increase capacity levels in New York State.
Starting May 15th, offices can go from 50 to 75 percent and casinos and gaming facilities can up their capacity to 50 percent. Gyms outside of New York City can go up to 50 percent.

Governor Cuomo is once again denying the allegations of several women who have accused him of sexual harassment. The governor addressed the matter yesterday in Syracuse, which marked the first time reporters have been able to ask him questions in-person since last year. The governor said he hasn’t done anything wrong and that he’s confident an investigation being conducted will vindicate him

Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel is pleased to announce the following additions to the upcoming Rockin’ the Downs Summer Concert Series.

Now kicking off the series on Friday June 11^th is Almost Queen.  The Ultimate Queen Tribute show delivers a live performance, showcasing signature four part harmonies and intricate musical interludes. Donning genuine costumes, Almost Queen recaptures the live energy and precision that is the Queen experience.

Closing the Concert Series now on August 27th will be American Rock Band, The Spin Doctors, who will be making their Batavia Downs debut.  Forming in the late 1980’s, this band went on to commercial success with chart topping hits like Two Princes and Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong from their smash hit album Pocket Full of Kryptonite.

These 2 concerts are being put on in conjunction with twenty6 Productions.

“We are excited to begin working with Batavia Downs, “ said CEO and Founder of Twenty6 Productions, Josh Holtzman.  “We know people have been waiting for the return of live events and we’re looking forward to putting on great shows at Batavia Downs while adhering to all the safety measures instituted by New York State.”

As per guidance from New York State, capacity for all concerts at this time will be 2,500 ticket holders but more tickets will be added if capacity increases.  All concert goers MUST show proof of:

• a negative PCR COVID test taken within 72 hours of show time

OR

• a negative Antigen COVID test within 6 hours of show time

OR

• must show proof of completed immunization (14 days since final vaccination prior to event date).

There will be a Rapid Antigen test site in the parking lot the day of the concerts in order to allow ticket holders to get a rapid test on event dates.

It his highly recommended that concert goers get a vaccine or test prior to concert date in order to avoid any wait times on the day of the show.  Concert goers are responsible for scheduling and paying for any tests.

As per New York State Regulations, pairs of seats will be 6 feet apart and masks must be worn unless a person is seated and eating or drinking.

Beginning at 8am on Thursday, April 29^th, tickets for all concerts already announced will be available at www.BataviaConcerts.com.  Tickets will be available for purchase at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel at the “Lucky Treasures” Gift Shop located in the lobby ONLY on concert days if any tickets remain unsold on concert date.

Due to limited capacity, concert attendees MUST BE 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER. A limit of 4 tickets purchased per person will be enforced.

If between now and the concert date the regulations change, then Batavia Downs will adopt any modifications.  Ticket holders are encouraged to visit www.bataviadownsgaming.com or their social media pages to stay up to date on any new information.

The Batavia City Council has approved hiring another police officer as well as two more firefighters. The Council also approved funding special police operations. The decision was made after the Council learned that an additional $262,000 was coming to the city in state Aid and Incentives for Municipalities’ funding. Lawmakers also agreed to apply for a grant for $328,000 which would cover 80 percent of the cost to upgrade water lines on Bank Street between Main Street and Washington Avenue in support of future development projects as well as improving water pressure for fire suppression. The City would be responsible for 20 percent – or $82,000 – of the project’s total cost.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced that the New York State Police will conduct “Operation Hardhat” enforcement activities all week in support of National Work Zone Awareness Week. During Operation Hardhat, members of the State Police patrol Department of Transportation and Thruway Authority work to enforce work zone speed limits and ensure that motorists are obeying flagging personnel. As part of this commemoration, DOT is unveiling a new social media campaign to promote work zone safety and the Thruway Authority unveiled new highway maintenance vehicles with large digital displays alerting motorists of their speed in work zones. Last year, 1,770 tickets were issued by State Police during “Operation Hardhat” activities, which surpassed 2019’s total by nearly 70 percent.

Genesee County reports 22 new positive cases of COVID-19 since the weekend. One of the new positive individuals was a resident of the NYS Veterans Home.

The implementation of New York’s recently passed legislation allowing the recreational use of marijuana for those 21 and over is likely a year or two away, but the Batavia City Council believes it’s not too soon to gather as much information as possible and to gauge the pulse of its citizens. At their Conference Meeting last night, Council members and City Attorney George Van Nest engaged in a 33-minute back-and-forth discussion about the new state law, officially known as the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act. Van Nest noted that municipalities can opt out “through a local law adoption” and they have to do so before the end of this year. What is required is a trigger of 10 percent of the voters for the last electorate – and then if a sufficient petition is filed with sufficient numbers before there could be a local vote.

New York will lose one seat in Congress as a result of population shifts… according to census data released Monday. The state’s population grew by more than 4 percent over the past decade, according to the 2020 census, but that increase didn’t keep pace with big jumps in other parts of the country. New York is one of seven states losing a member of congress as a result of the 2020 census. Five states will gain a seat in congress. Texas will gain two.

27-year-old Jared S. McDonald of South Street Road in Pavilion, was arrested by the Le Roy Police Department following the execution of a Search Warrant. McDonald was charged with grand larceny in the second degree, a Class C felony, and coercion in the first degree, a Class D Felony. As a result of the Search Warrant, McDonald is also facing several charges from the Genesee County Drug Task Force.

OurBus has announced a new cooperation with family-owned transportation company Niagara Scenic Tours to offer daily intercity bus service linking Batavia with seven cities in New York and one in Pennsylvania. The route goes through Niagara Falls, Buffalo, Batavia, Geneseo, Corning, Elmira, and in Pennsylvania — Sayre, en route to New York City, starting May 12. Also, passengers can make connections to points all across New York and New Jersey with stops at the Greater Binghamton Transportation Center in Binghamton and Bridge Plaza in Fort Lee, N.J. Niagara Scenic Tours’ charter-style motorcoaches will be used on the route, equipped with wifi, power outlets, and overhead storage. Tickets are sold on OurBus.com or on the OurBus App.

Cuomo announced today that the NY state fair will be back this August from the 20^th to September 6^th.  A few changes being made for COVID: the fair can only operate at 50 percent capacity and it will be spilt into 4 quarters to help with crowd size.  The 4 areas will be: food and beverage, amusements and rides, concerts, and agriculture.  More regulations may be announced before August.

Governor Cuomo announced today that gyms, offices, casinos, and outdoor stadiums may up their capacities in a couple of weeks.  Starting the 15^th of May, gyms can have 50 percent capacity, offices can have 75 percent and casinos can have 50 percent.  Outdoor stadiums and venues can have up to 33 percent capacity.

Congressman Chris Jacobs was in Batavia Sunday morning to announce the winners of the Congressional Art Competition.  The first place winner, Isabella Houseknecht of Batavia, will have her piece hung in the US Capitol and be flown to DC.  The second place winner, Molly Regan of Holland will have her piece hung in Jacobs DC office and the third place winner, Madison Dugan of Albion will have her piece hung in Jacobs Clarence office.  Jacobs said “Congratulations to our winners. I look forward to hanging these pieces in each of my offices and having a constant reminder of the exceptional talent in our district.”

Upton Road between Route 33 and Rose Road in the Town of Batavia will be closed beginning May 3 through approximately Sept. 15th for a bridge replacement project.  The road will not be passable to regular traffic or emergency vehicles. A detour will be posted.

Beginning today, capacity limits are going to be expanding at several businesses and venues statewide.
That means attendance at museums and zoos can increase from 33-percent to 50-percent.
Also, the number of people allowed inside movie theaters will grow from 25-percent to 33-percent.
Health and safety guidelines that have been in place for months to stop the spread of COVID-19 still need to be followed.

Another convenience store is looking to build in Batavia.
Quicklee’s Stores wants to convert the former Bob Evans on Oak Street.
The City’s Planning and Development Committee has looked over the plans and seemed generally agreeable to them.
Quicklee’s has about two dozen stores and gasoline stations in Western and Central New York.

Firefighters located a man who drowned while attempting to rescue a dog Friday night. The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a man and dog in the water in Murray. Multiple fire departments responded with water rescue equipment. A fire search boat later located and recovered the body of 30-year-old Ryan Perkins of Holley.

The Batavia City Council wants to restore some of its emergency services staffing. City Manager Rachael Tabelski is proposing the restoration of a police officer and two firefighter’s positions to the 2021-22 budget.
The proposal could be forwarded to a Special Business Meeting afterward. The Conference Meeting is scheduled for 7p.m. tonight at the City Hall Council Board Room.

The cost of gasoline has gone up a bit in Batavia.
Triple A says the average price of a gallon of regular has risen to $2.87, up two cents from a week ago…and up more than 60-cents from a year ago.

The Batavia City Council wants to beef up its emergency services staffing. City Manager Rachael Tabelski is proposing the restoration of a police officer and two firefighters to the 2021-22 budget and the funding of overtime for the Neighborhood Enforcement Team and community policing special details. This proposal could be forwarded to a Special Business Meeting afterward. The Conference Meeting is scheduled for 7 o’clock at the City Hall Council Board Room.

New York’s statewide COVID-19 positivity rate dropped to 1.79 percent, the lowest since November 3. Every region’s 7-day average positivity rate is below 4 percent for the first time since November 8.

New York will resume using the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine after the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Food and Drug Administration lifted the recommended pause. Gov. Andrew Cuomo and State Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker shared the update through statements over the weekend. The governor says that the state’s independent task force reviewed the data and reaffirmed the federal government’s decision to resume using the vaccine. The J&J shot was paused for 11 days as scientific advisors to the CDC looked into cases of rare blood clots.

Recruit NY happened across the state over the weekend. It’s an event designed to help volunteer fire departments attract new members. After a one-year COVID hiatus, it returned this year as some departments look to bounce back from recruitment stalls due to the pandemic. While a shortage still exists in firefighter volunteers across the state, some are calling it a comeback.

Owners of Quicklee’s Convenience Stores have their eyes on the former site of the Bob Evans Restaurant at 204 Oak Street in Batavia for a convenience store with a retail fuel station. The City of Batavia Planning & Development Committee reviewed the sketch plan submitted by the director of land development projects for Quicklee’s, which has about two dozen stores/retail fuel locations. Two of its new stores opened last summer in Brighton and along I-86 in Allegany County. Committee Chair Duane Preston says the site plan looks favorable. According to a letter to the City Code Enforcement Officer, the proposed project involves converting the existing building into two sections: 2,700-plus square feet for the convenience store and the remaining 1,000-plus square feet for a “quick service restaurant partner with a drive-thru window.”

It’s National Infant Immunization Week. This is an annual observance highlighting the importance of protecting children 2 years and younger from vaccine-preventable diseases. It is also a week to celebrate the achievements of immunization programs and their partners in promoting health communities. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, some infants and children have missed or delayed routinely recommended vaccinations.

New data released by the New York State Education Department revealed a major spike in sexual violence at the University of Rochester. The state’s “Enough is Enough” legislation requires colleges to submit data on documented incidents of sexual violence annually. Recently published data shows a 129 percent increase in reported sexual violence at the U. of R. A spokesperson for the university attributed the increase, in part, to additional staff helping students understand reporting options. The university reported the sixth most incidents out of over 200 colleges in New York.

Firefighters located a man who drowned while attempting to rescue a dog Friday night. The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a man and dog in the water in Murray. Multiple fire departments responded with water rescue equipment. A fire search boat later located and recovered the body of 30-year-old Ryan Perkins of Holley.

Michael Tomaszewski is being ordered to repay 19 more victims of his mishandling deposits and defrauding his funeral home customers.  Under NY State Law, even though he declared bankruptcy he still must repay any money he took in fraudulently.  Victims receive priority for the first 3025 dollars owed to them.  As part of his plea deal, he agreed to pay restitution to his victims. The exact amount of restitution has yet to be determined but it was revealed during his last court appearance that he has already reimbursed some of his victims.

COVID Update: Genesee county has 21 new cases and 19 people have recovered.  We are saddened to report another death of a person over the age of 65 in the community.  Orleans county has 16 new cases and 11 people have recovered.  There are 84 active cases in Genesee county and 101 in Orleans.  Almost 16500 people have been fully vaccinated in Genesee County.  In Orleans nearly 10 thousand people have been vaccinated.  A third of New Yorkers have completed their vaccine series making New York 11^th in the country for percentage of population vaccinated.

There are planting beds available for green thumbed individuals who want to grow their own vegetables this summer at the City of Batavia Community Garden at Macarthur Park.  There is a fee for using the planters, 20 for a 4 by 4 planter, 30 for a 4 by 8 planter, and 25 for a 10 by 2 raised trough bed.  There are also plants that will be shared, seeds and tools are provided. For information call the city of Batavia Office of Public Works Administration at 585-345-6325.

April 24^th to May 1^st is national infant immunization week.  This week is meant to highlight the importance of getting kids 2 years old and younger immunized against a range of deadly diseases.  Doctors and health officials say that the vaccines against 14 diseases are the most successful and cost effective public health tool available.  Many children have missed getting their shots because of COVID and the shutdowns.  Health officials are urging all parents to call their healthcare provider and make sure their children get their shots.

The Buffalo Sabres scored another win Friday night against the Boston Bruins.  In the 6 to 4 victory the Sabres Sam Reinhart scored 3 goals, Rasmus Dahlin, Casey Mittelstadt, and Arttu Routalainen score 1 each.  The Sabres will be back on the ice Sunday when they play the New York Rangers at 6pm.

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.