Local News

Det. Sgt. Kevin Czora capped off his career yesterday surrounded by colleagues and friends at a retirement party at police headquarters.
Czora had been with the department for 20 years after moving from a job with the Federal Reserve as a protections officer.
Police Chief Shawn Heubusch said as soon as he met Czora in 2012, he realized that he would be someone he could count on.
Cheif Heubusch announced that Sgt. Matt Lutey will move into the detective sergeant position, replacing Czora, effective Jan. 7, 2020.
In addition the chief said that Sgt. Chris Camp, a 12-year employee, will move into the Assistant Chief post, replacing Todd Crossett, who has accepted a police officer position with the VA Medical Center in Batavia.

A Batavia man is arrested for shoplifting at Wal-Mart and is busted with promoting prison contraband.
36 year old Thomas Leonard of East Main Street was arrested and charged with Falsifying Business Records, Petit Larceny and Conspiracy following a larceny complaint on Monday afternoon at the Wal-Mart in Batavia.
Around an hour later Leonard was hit with a count of Promoting Prison Contraband for allegedly introducing contraband to the detention facility.
He was ultimately released with appearance tickets for both Town and City Court in Batavia.

It’s a new year, and that means new bail reform legislation is in effect statewide.
The law gets rid of pretrial detention and cash bail in most non-violent felony or misdemeanor cases.
Cash bail is still required for offenses like drug trafficking and sex crimes involving children.
Governor Cuomo believes the new rules will keep thousands of people accused of crimes out of jail until their legal case is resolved.

The county highway department announced that North Road in LeRoy will be closed between Route 19 and Conlon Road this Thursday and Friday.
Construction crews will be installing a water main across the roadway.
North Road between Route 19 and Conlon Road will be closed to all traffic, including emergency vehicles, this Thursday and Friday.

Governor Cuomo has directed the state Labor Department to eliminate subminimum wage for over 70-thousand tipped workers.
That means people with jobs such as tow-truck drivers, hairdressers and nail salon workers will soon see bigger paychecks.
The governor’s order will be phased in over the next several months.
Cuomo says studies show the current tipping system mostly affects the bottom lines of women and minorities who have jobs that help keep the state’s economy moving forward.

A snow squally warning has now expired for Wyoming County but periods of moderately heavy snow is expected for Genesee County.
Significant snow accumulations are not expected but intermittent bursts of snow could affect visibility.

A note to LeRoy motorists: The county highway department announced that North Road will be closed between Route 19 and Conlon Road this Thursday and Friday.
Construction crews will be installing a water main across the roadway.
North Road between Route 19 and Conlon Road will be closed to all traffic, including emergency vehicles, this Thursday and Friday.

Batavia Police call it a case of road rage.
48 year old Lisa Marie Fox of Broadway Road in Alexander was charged with menacing following an incident on Oak Street in Batavia.
Police say Lisa brandished what appeared to be a knife while engaged in a verbal fracas with another driver.
Lisa was issued a court appearance ticket.

Thousands of police officers will be patrolling in and around Times Square today as folks pack the area to ring in the New Year.
Police will use drones to keep a bird’s eye view on things.
There will be bomb sniffing dogs and heavily armed counter-terrorism teams.
The NYPD’s chief of counter-terrorism says Times Square is probably the safest place on Earth on New Year’s Eve.

Starting today, minimum wage employees in Upstate New York will start earning more money. The hourly wage is going from $11.10 an hour to $11.80.
There will also be a 70 cent increase to $12.50 an hour one year from now. The State Department of Labor is urging employees to call and report businesses that don’t follow the new minimum wage increase.

An Alexander woman was arrested after a road rage incident in Batavia.
City Police took 48 year old Lisa Fox of Broadway Road Alexander into custody on Christmas Eve following a verbal altercation with another person in a road rage incident on Oak Street in Batavia.
Fox is accused of displaying an object in a way to have it appear as a knife during the altercation.
She was charged with Menacing and was released with an appearance ticket for City Court on January 14th.

A Batavia Man busted over twice the legal limit in Pavilion.
32 year old Victor Trejo of East Main Street in the City was stopped on Ellicott Street Road in Pavilion by Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies for allegedly speeding earlier this month.
Trejo was allegedly driving while intoxicated and recorded a Blood Alcohol Content two times over the legal limit.
He was charged with DWI and speeding and issued an appearance ticket for January 14th in Pavilion Town Court.

City Police stop a Rochester woman with a list of traffic offenses.
51 year old Karen Scott of Rochester was stopped for speeding on Main Street in the city.
During the traffic stop Officers discovered Scott possessed a revoked non driver ID with 10 or more scoffs on 10 or more dates.
She was charged with Aggravated Unlicensed Operation and Speeding and is scheduled to appear on January 15th in City Court.

A Bank Street resident accused of imprisonment.
Batavia Police report the arrest 43 year old Randy Wilmet after investigation into an incident at a lower apartment at a Bank Street address last Thursday.
Wilmet was apprehended after he allegedly prevented an individual from leaving the residence.
He was charged with Unlawful Imprisonment and released on his own recognizance to appear in Batavia City Court January 16th.

East Main Street woman pinched for petit larceny in Batavia
Genesee County Sheriff’s responded at around 5 p.m. last night to a possible shoplifting incident on Veterans Memorial Drive.
They arrested 45 year old Michelle May of Batavia on counts of Petit Larceny, and Conspiracy.
She is expected to appear in Town of Batavia court next Monday.

Starting today, minimum wage employees in Upstate New York will start earning more money.
The hourly wage is going from $11.10 an hour to $11.80.
There will also be a 70 cent increase to $12.50 an hour one year from now.
The State Department of Labor is urging employees to call and report businesses that don’t follow the new minimum wage increase.

Governor Cuomo has revealed another issue he’d like to see the Legislature take on when lawmakers return to Albany next month.
He’s planning to ask them to pass a bill legalizing paid gestational surrogacy.
New York is one of three states that ban infertile and same sex couples from having someone carry their child in exchange for compensation.
The governor says it’s time for the state to update its antiquated laws to help people start families.

Power has been restored to nearly all 2,200 customers of National Grid who had lost power earlier today in Genesee County.
Most of those affected lived in Stafford.
The outage also affected Genesee Community College and for a time threatened the Lions Club annual basketball Tournament.
Those games are back on. The championship round begins at 7 tonight.
We’ll have live coverage of the small and large school championship games tonight on WBTA.

Western New York drivers are handing over a bit more money at the pump. According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas is $2.65. That’s up five cents from last week and is four cents higher than this time a month ago.

Governor Cuomo has ordered increased security in Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods statewide following a violent attack that injured five people. It happened Saturday night in Rockland County.
Police said a man went into a rabbi’s home with a machete and stabbed five people during a Hanukkah celebration.

Governor Cuomo wants state lawmakers to pass a bill that would only allow registered retailers to buy e-cigarettes online, by phone or mail. In a proposal released Sunday, Cuomo is also calling for a ban on all flavored vaping products including nicotine. Cuomo also wants a ban on vaping advertising that some argue is used to get the youth hooked. The governor is expected to detail the proposals at his state of the state address next month.

The Buffalo Bills will be heading into the playoffs on a two-game losing streak after dropping their regular season finale. Quarterback Josh Allen played briefly while other starters sat out entirely as the Bills lost 13 to six to the New York Jets at New Era Field yesterday. The Bills finished 10 and six on the season and will be the fifth seed in the AFC playoffs. That means they’ll be visiting the AFC South champion Houston Texans in the Wild Card round Saturday afternoon. Kickoff for that game is set for 4:35p.m.

Press Release:

Albany, NY – New York Farm Bureau has released its annual “Circle of Friends,” naming 77 New York State Legislators to the distinguished list. The award is an indication of the individual lawmaker’s support of New York agriculture and Farm Bureau.

The “Circle of Friends” honor is based upon each legislator’s voting record on issues of agricultural importance as well as other evidence of legislative support, including sponsorship of bills that New York Farm Bureau has either supported or opposed during the most recent legislative session.

“New York Farm Bureau recognizes these Senators and Assembly Members for their legislative work on agricultural issues that matter to our members. We appreciate their support of bills and budget items that benefit farm families, and we hope to continue this partnership in the 2020 legislative session. We aim to work together with all lawmakers to support local food production and address the needs of our rural communities,” said David Fisher, President of New York Farm Bureau.

The “Circle of Friends” is not an endorsement, and this distinction only recognizes the 2019 legislative session.

“Circle of Friends” recipients for 2019 are:

New York Senate:

Akshar, Fred(R)
Amedore, Jr., George A.(R)
Antonacci II, Robert E. (R)
Boyle, Philip M.(R)
Flanagan, John J.(R)
Funke, Rich(R)
Gallivan, Patrick M.(R)
Griffo, Joseph A.(R)
Helming, Pamela(R)
Jacobs, Chris(R)
Jordan, Daphne (R)
LaValle, Kenneth P.(R)
Lanza, Andrew J.(R)
Little, Elizabeth O’C.(R)
Metzger, Jen (D)
O’Mara, Thomas F.(R)
Ortt, Robert G.(R)
Ranzenhofer, Michael H.(R)
Ritchie, Patricia A.(R)
Robach, Joseph E.(R)
Serino, Susan J.(R)
Seward, James L.(R)
Tedisco, James(R)
New York Assembly:
Ashby, Jacob C.(R)
Barclay, William A.(R)
Blankenbush, Kenneth(R)
Brabenec, Karl(R)
Buttenschon, Marianne (D)
Byrne, Kevin(R)
Byrnes, Marjorie (R)
Crouch, Clifford W.(R)
DeStefano, Joseph R)
DiPietro, David J.(R)
Finch, Gary D.(R)
Fitzpatrick, Michael J.(R)
Friend, Christopher S.(R)
Garbarino, Andrew R.(R)
Giglio, Joseph M.(R)
Goodell, Andrew(R)
Hawley, Stephen M.(R)
Johns, Mark C.(R)
Jones, D. Billy(D)
Kolb, Brian M.(R)
Lalor, Kieran Michael(R)
Lawrence, Peter A.(R)
Lupardo, Donna A.(D)
Malliotakis, Nicole(R)
Manktelow, Brian (R)
McDonald, III, John T.(D)
McDonough, David G.(R)
McMahon, Karen (D)
Mikulin, John(R)
Miller, Brian(R)
Miller, Melissa(R)
Montesano, Michael A.(R)
Morinello, Angelo(R)
Norris, Michael(R)
Palmesano, Philip A.(R)
Palumbo, Anthony H.(R)
Ra, Edward P,(R)
Raia, Andrew P.(R)
Reilly, Michael (R)
Salka, John (R)
Santabarbara, Angelo L.(D)
Schimminger, Robin(D)
Schmitt, Colin (R)
Smith, Douglas(R)
Smullen, Robert (R)
Stec, Daniel G.(R)
Stern, Steve(D)
Stirpe, Jr., Albert A.(D)
Tague, Christopher(R)
Thiele, Jr., Fred W.(D)
Walczyk, Mark (F)(R)
Walsh, Mary Beth(R)
Williams, Jaime(D)
Woerner, Carrie(D)

Press Release:

“The end of 2019 does not represent a time of closure but rather a time for new hope, new opportunity and the fulfillment of long-standing aspirations. It is a symbolic time to set new goals, raise your standards and put failures and disappointment behind you. Although we must always look forward, it is important to reflect on what we have accomplished this year and all that we have to be thankful for. In doing so, we can evaluate what we have achieved and push ourselves even further professionally, personally and physically to even greater limits next year.

“The division in our state and our nation is troubling. Politics shouldn’t be a perpetual competition as much as it should be about listening, collaboration and compromise. New York has taken on a stark progressive character the last year under one-party leadership and although I disagree with many of the current policies, I will continue to extend the olive branch in 2020 and forge a bond with elected officials as fellow New Yorkers first, not Republicans or Democrats.

“Next year’s election cycle is sure to be contentious, but we will heal as a nation by always remembering to listen, respect and be kind to others.

“If you are out celebrating the New Year with family and friends and choose to consume alcohol, please do so responsibly and always take advantage of the great ride-sharing and taxi services we have locally. We need to all do our part this time of year to keep our drivers and passengers safe.

“On behalf of all the constituents of the 139th Assembly District and fellow New Yorkers alike, I wish everyone and their families a happy and safe New Year!”

Batavia Police have arrested an East Main Street man for allegedly choking and unlawfully imprisoning a victim during a Christmas Day domestic disturbance.
Officers were called to responded to an East Main Street address at around 8 p.m. Christmas night were they took 61 year old Ernest Lane into custody on counts of Criminal Obstruction of Breathing, Unlawful Imprisonment, Aggravated Family Offense and Criminal Contempt.
He is accused of violating a stay away order of protection and having physical contact with the protected person including preventing them from leaving the apartment.
Lane was arraigned in Batavia City Court and is slated to appear at a later date.

Stafford woman pinched for a stolen credit card in Batavia.
Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies arrested 22 year old Stormy Watts of Main Road Stafford Friday evening on a count of Criminal Possession of Stolen Property following investigation into an incident at the Wal-Mart in Batavia.
Watts allegedly tried to use a stolen credit card at the store on December 22nd.
She was released with an appearance ticket for Batavia Town Court on January 9th.

A Batavia man busted over twice the legal limit.
22 year old Zachary Knapp of East Ave in Batavia was arrested last Monday on a count of Aggravated DWI following a traffic stop on East Ave in the City.
Knapp allegedly had a flat tire and recorded a BAC over twice the legal limit.
He was released with an appearance ticket for January 15th in City Court.

The Buffalo Bills will be heading into the playoffs on a two-game losing streak after dropping their regular season finale.
Quarterback Josh Allen played briefly while other starters sat out entirely as the Bills lost 13 to six to the New York Jets at New Era Field yesterday.
The Bills finished 10 and six on the season and will be the fifth seed in the AFC playoffs.
That means they’ll be visiting the AFC South champion Houston Texans in the Wild Card round Saturday afternoon.
Kickoff for that game is set for 4:35 p.m.

Governor Cuomo has ordered increased security in Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods statewide following a violent attack that injured five people.
It happened Saturday night in the Rockland County community of Monsey when a man went into a rabbi’s home with a machete and stabbed five people during a Hanukkah celebration.
The suspect was taken into custody hours after the incident.
Governor Cuomo called the violence an act of domestic terrorism.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is holding his next round of office hours for Genesee and Monroe county residents starting January 10. The office hours will be attended by Hawley’s staff. The 139th Assembly District, represented by Hawley, includes all of Genesee County and portions of western Monroe County.

“These office hours offer local residents an opportunity to share their thoughts, concerns and ideas regarding the issues facing state government,” said Hawley. “I strongly encourage those who are able to attend to come and make their voices heard.”

To schedule an individual appointment with Hawley, please contact his office at hawleys@nyassembly.gov or by calling 585-356-0686 for the Monroe County office hours, or 585-813-1608 for the Genesee County office hours.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley
January Office Hours:

Monroe County:

Ellwanger Room
Seymour Library
161 East Avenue, Brockport
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Ellwanger Room
Seymour Library
161 East Avenue, Brockport
Wednesday, January 29, 2020
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Genesee County:

Genesee Community College
Conable Technology Building, Room T124
Assemblyman R. Stephen Hawley Drive (1 College Road), Batavia
Friday, January 10, 2020
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Genesee Community College
Conable Technology Building, Room T124
Assemblyman R. Stephen Hawley Drive (1 College Road), Batavia
Friday, January 24, 2020
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Genesee County deputies have arrested a man who was injured during a home invasion at a Clinton Street Road address in Stafford.
Investigators say 36 year old Charles Cooper was shot in the back by the homeowner when he broke into the man’s residence in November.
Cooper also had a pellet gun on him when he went into the Clinton Street Road home and asked the homeowner for money before allegedly threatening him.
Cooper who has been hospitalized since the incident was charged upon his release with counts of burglary and robbery with his next appearance in Stafford Town Court scheduled for January 7th.
He was arraigned and sent to the Genesee County Jail on $50,000 bail.

A Pembroke man arrested for menacing and harassment.
State Troopers based out of Batavia report the arrest of 27 year old David LeRoy following an incident the night of Christmas Eve at a Town of Pembroke address.
LeRoy was charged with a Class A Misdemeanor count of Menacing along with second degree harassment and was released on his own recognizance.

According to County Highway Superintendent Tim Hens construction of a major water main will restart on Monday, Dec. 30th along North Road in the Town of LeRoy.
The road will be closed and will only be accessible by local traffic and emergency vehicles during this time and major delays can be expected for several weeks.
Complete roadway shutdowns will occur and be communicated as blasting of bedrock and road crossings occur.
Officials suggest using alternate routes in the meantime.

The Buffalo Bills will look to build momentum for their upcoming playoff run in their final regular season contest.
They’re hosting the New York Jets at New Era Field in Orchard Park this weekend.
Bills quarterback Josh Allen will start, but there’s no word on just how long he’ll play.
Buffalo is currently locked into the fifth seed in the AFC playoffs, but their opponent hasn’t been determined yet.
Kickoff for Sunday’s contest is set for 1:00 p.m.

Kim Hill

Add another hat into the ring for the New York State Senate.
She is Democrat Kim Smith. She is running for the seat to be vacated by Republican State Senator Michael Ranzenhofer.
Smith has been with the Monroe County Health Department for 25 years.
She is the second Democrat to announce for the post.
Earlier this month businesswoman Joan Seamons announced her candidacy.
No Republicans have formally announced for the post.

Batavia’s bravest still looking for the cause of a Christmas Eve fire that heavily damaged a two-story home on Highland Park.
City firemen reached the scene quickly and found flames shooting out of the second floor. Everyone has safely escaped including a dog but two pet reptiles did not.
One fireman suffered a minor injury but remained on duty.

If you’re heading out today for some post-holiday shopping, experts have some simple things you should keep in mind.
First is don’t assume every sale is a good deal, meaning you should compare prices at several stores before making a purchase.
Also, most retailers have a shorter return window for items purchased after the busy shopping period, so make sure you know how long you have bring back something you buy.

Beginning the first of the year a lot of New Yorkers will be earning more money while on the job.
The minimum wage for Upstate New York will increase by 70 cents to $11.80 an hour.
Then in 2021, there will be a similar jump to $12.50 an hour

A tractor-trailer rollover in Caledonia has led to the death of a Genesee County man.
The crash occurred on state Route 20 near Route 5.
55 year old Richard Ishmael of Bergen was pronounced dead at the scene Friday morning.
Deputies say Ishmaels’ rig left the roadway while making a turn and rolled over trapping him inside.

State Police have identified the victim of a deadly weekend hit-and-run in the Town of Niagara. Troopers say 22-year-old Maxim Vyazovoy was struck and killed on Lockport Road Saturday morning. Police have found the vehicle that hit him but are still trying to track down the driver. If you have any information, investigators want to hear from you.

Jeremy M. Fairbanks, 41, of Jackson Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree strangulation. Fairbanks was arrested following an investigation into a domestic dispute that occurred at 10:15 a.m. on Dec. 13 on Jackson Street in Batavia. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court at 3:03 p.m. on Dec. 18 and jailed without bail.

Drivers hitting the road during this busy travel week will find steady gas prices in Western New York.
According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of gas is two-65.
That’s the same as it was last week and is a penny cheaper than a month ago.

The New York State Thruway Authority has announced a new way to help thousands of drivers in the Empire State. The Office of the Toll Payer Advocate will help customers who aren’t able to resolve toll problems using the Customer Service Center. Each office will also help make sure folks get fair and responsive treatment and recommend reforms to improve service. Thruway Authority customers who haven’t been able to resolve toll violations can fill out a form on the agency’s website to ask for help.

Governor Cuomo has signed off on a new law to eliminate the use of a potentially cancer-causing chemical. PFAS is commonly used in firefighting foam and is known to contaminate drinking water sources. In addition to cancer, PFAS has been linked to other serious health problems. Its use will also now be phased out at oil refineries, fuel storage and distribution facilities and chemical plants.

Batavia Police have arrested one person in connection with a car theft from earlier this month. Back on December 7, a vehicle was allegedly stolen from the parking lot of a business on Liberty Street in the city.  After the investigation, Police arrested 57-year-old Edward Ruckdeschel of Liberty Street and charged him with second-degree unauthorized use of a vehicle and fourth-degree grand larceny.  He is being held without bail in the Genesee County Jail pending a court appearance.

Some residents receiving food stamps across New York State could be at risk of losing those benefits. It’s due to new federal rules demanding states enforce work requirements for folks who are considered able-bodied.  Previously, states could waive those requirements in areas where unemployment was high.  But now, unemployment will have to be at least six percent for that to happen. When the new regulations kick in next year, folks who are able to work, are single or don’t have children will have to either be employed or receive job training for at least 20 hours a week to receive their benefits.

On Friday, Durin Rogers was sworn in as the new full-time judge Batavia City Court and David Saleh was sworn in as the new part-time judge.

Governor Andrew Cuomo is set to unveil a proposal in his upcoming State of the State address that would save women money.   He’s planning to call for an end to the so-called ‘pink tax’ and ban businesses from charging more for items marketed towards women. On average, women pay seven cents more for things like razors, shampoo and health care products than men.  In a statement, the governor called the practice of basing prices on gender discriminatory and repugnant.

The Buffalo News is reporting that there is a push intensifying to bring trans-Atlantic flights to the Buffalo Niagara International Airport. The Buffalo News says airport officials and politicians are lobbying the state for money in order to make the flights a reality. They point to the fact that nearby airports, like Toronto’s Pearson Airport, are congested and that makes the Buffalo Airport a logical choice for trans-Atlantic flights. Airport officials will look to make their pitch to the state in January.

Drivers hitting the road during this busy travel week will find dropping gas prices.  According to AAA of Western and Central New York, the average cost for a gallon of gas in Batavia is $2.65 a gallon, and that’s a drop of 8 cents from a year ago.  The state average is $2.69, while nationally it’s $2.55. Triple-A expects 116 million people to be traveling for the holiday, the most in nearly 20 years.  That’s an increase of almost four-percent over last year.  Triple-A expects 104 million of those holiday travelers will drive to their destinations.

Senator Chuck Schumer is demanding a federal investigation by the Consumer Product Safety Commission into T.J. Maxx and its Marshall’s and HomeGoods brands.  Schumer said the stores sold recalled products including clothes, toys, and electronics. The products were already recalled between 2014 and 2019.  Most of the merchandise was highly hazardous, with dangers such as infant fatalities, fire, burning, and explosions, just to name a few.  He added that consumers deserve to be notified, refunded, and reassured that this will not happen again.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo yesterday announced that more than $761 million in economic and community development funding has been awarded through Round IX of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. Since its inception in 2011, over $6.9 billion has been awarded to more than 8,300 projects that are projected to create and retain more than 240,000 jobs statewide through the REDC process.  Here’s more information on the local 2019 Regional Economic Development Council Awards, courtesy of The Batavian:

The local projects:

If you don’t have an E-Z Pass on your vehicle, you could be reaching deeper into your pocket to pay for tolls.  It’s part of a proposed plan by the state Thruway Authority that would go into effect in 2021.  If approved, drivers without an E-Z Pass would pay 30-percent more in tolls whether you live in New York State or not.  Drivers with an out-of-state E-Z Pass would see a 15-percent increase. Public hearings will be held before a final decision on toll increases is made.

Officials at Genesee Community College are delighted to introduce two new administrators, both coming to GCC after dynamic terms of service at the State University of New York (SUNY) at Geneseo. Vice President of Development and External Affairs Justin Johnston and Director of Student Engagement and Inclusion, Miguel Baique began their appointments on Dec. 3 and Nov. 20, respectively.

The House of Representatives approved legislation yesterday to repeal part of the 2017 Republican tax law. The law put a cap on how much state and local tax you were allowed to deduct on your taxes. The cap was $10 thousand dollars but this new bill would take away that cap. The bill is not expected to pass in the Senate.

Over 150 people will soon be out of work after the Rochester Board of Education approves layoffs.  Most of the cuts are set to affect teachers in the district.  Superintendent Terry Dade says staff reductions are necessary to help deal with a multi-million-dollar budget shortfall.  The original plan was for roughly 150 teachers to be let go, but grant money from the State Department of Education kept that from happening.

It looks like there’s no slowing down the spread of the flu across New York State.  The latest data from the Department of Health says there were over 3200 confirmed cases of the virus during the week ending December 14th.  That’s a 77- percent increase from the previous report.  Over 500 New Yorkers were also hospitalized due to complications from the virus.  Doctors continue to say getting vaccinated is the best way to keep you safe from the flu.

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — Although the final day of racing was canceled on Saturday (Dec. 14) due to bad weather conditions, the clubhouse that night was still sold out and the 400 or so patrons enjoyed Christmas music instead of race calls. But that was the norm at Batavia Downs in 2019; happy customers having fun at the races.

Indicators for every aspect of the racing product pointed toward positive territory and in several areas showed record breaking performances.

Betting-wise the on track handle was up 12.2%, driven by a 5% increase in attendance, the export signal was up 24% and Western Regional Off Track Betting (WROTB) revenue was up 5.3%. All tolled, wagering from all sources was up a combined 19.9% and provided the highest total handle at the track and the top three highest single night handles since WROTB reopened the Downs in 2002.

The total handle was also $1.4 million higher than last year and all of this was accomplished with three fewer race days on the schedule.

“Our customers came out in force, both live and at simulcast to support us all year and we couldn’t be more grateful to them,” said Todd Haight, Director/General Manager of Live Racing at Batavia Downs. “We gave them some of the best racing in the state this year and they validated it by betting us the whole season.”

There were several reasons for the increases and they were all primarily driven by the eight legs of the New York Sire Stakes (NYSS) culminating in the $1.8 million Night of Champions (NOC) finals in September. Along with the highest overnight purses ever offered at the track, Batavia Downs dolled out over $8.1 million in total purses this year and that drew top horses and horsemen from across North America all year, providing great betting opportunities for the customers.

The Downs also took full advantage of the Strategic Wagering Pool sponsored by the United States Trotting Association (USTA) and offered enhanced funds for exotic wagers that also provided free program pages for half the card on those nights. Aside from the NYSS NOC which was the highest handle in the tracks history under WROTB ownership, the track saw its highest total nightly handles on cards where the Strategic Wagering Pools were offered.

“We had 14 Strategic Wagering opportunities during the course of the season and every one paid off. Many thanks to USTA Director Chris Schick and Social Media Director Michael Carter for their assistance with these wagers,” said Haight.

Two other factors for the increase include the simulcast department doing a great job marketing the live signal from Batavia and picking up many new customers this year which drove the export numbers and the track’s group sales department who brought in 31% more parties and events to the clubhouse than ever before and enhanced the live handle.

“A lot of the people we see during live racing were introduced to the sport by attending our live concert series over the summer. They actually walk across the track and ask questions about horse racing and then come back when the meet starts to see it,“ said Haight. “It’s really been a good selling point for us and we’ve made many new customers as a result.”

On the track, Billy Davis Jr. won his first driving title at Batavia Downs in 2019 by averaging two wins a night for the entire meet. His 131 wins, 102 seconds and 83 thirds out of 629 starts earned him a Universal Driver Rating (UDR) of .342 for the meet and $861,336 in purses.

Jim Morrill Jr. was second with 79 wins, 56 seconds and 37 thirds with $921,527 in earnings and Dave McNeight III was third with 78 wins, 61 seconds and 70 thirds with $543,064 in purses.

On the training side, Jim Clouser Jr. also won his first Batavia Downs training title after scoring 51 wins, 29 seconds and 39 thirds out of 219 starts for a UTR of .366 and $361,413 in earnings. His stable members finished in the money 54% of the time.

Finishing second in the trainer race was Maria Rice who scored 43 wins, 31 seconds and 21 thirds out of 190 starts and earned $358,234 in purses with the legendary Gerry Sarama finishing third while making 246 starts with 32 wins, 40 seconds and 32 thirds with $256,619 in earnings.

Live racing returns to the oldest lighted harness racing track in America on July 22, 2020 pending approval from the New York State Gaming Commission.

L to R: Leroy Central School Physical Education (PE) Teacher Michelle Sherman, GCC Director of Health and PE Rebecca Dziekan, Leroy Central School Physical Education (PE) Teachers Brian Herdlein and Mike Humphrey, (in front) 1st Lyla Jones; 2nd Jacob Kochmanski; (missing from the photo) 3rd Abigail Valdes

Press Release:

LeRoy Central School has won the 2019 Play to Get Fit Challenge hosted by the Health and Physical Education department at Genesee Community College!

The Get Fit Challenge effort began in 2011 to motivate third, fourth and fifth graders in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties to get more active. The Challenge is designed to draw students’ attention to just how many minutes they spend engaged in physical activity outside of school. Throughout the five-week program, participating students record their active minutes – time spent walking, biking, running, skating, swimming, playing a sport, playing tag, playing on a swing set and other active, creative games. (Video games designed for fitness utilizing Wii, Xbox Kinect or other similar gaming systems are not active minutes eligible.) Recorded minutes are then totaled and an average active minute count is calculated based on the number of students enrolled in third, fourth and fifth grades in each school.

This year, LeRoy Central School generated an impressive 2,831 average active minutes – beating even their winning count from 2018. The school was awarded the 2019 winning plaque and each student received a certificate recognizing their participation and effort.

In each participating school district the program also recognizes the three most active students:

• LeRoy – 1st Lyla Jones; 2nd Jacob Kochmanski; 3rd Abigail Valdes
• Batavia – 1st Ryan Bigsby, 2nd Jonah Arroyo; 3rd Dominic Darch
• Warsaw – 1st Delaney Baker; 2nd Kinsley Baker; 3rd Jaiden Fries
• York – 1st Briana Parsons; 2nd Brody Pangrazio; 3rd Charlie Cuozzo
• Pavilion – 1st Ella Brian; 2nd Peyton Gay and Colton Brian; 3rd Jessie Brian
• Perry – 1st Reagan Moroz; 2nd Aubrey McCowen; 3rd Tysen Deaton

The three most active participants (based on total minutes recorded) in the region this year were:

• Ryan Bigsby of Batavia with 11,122 minutes
• Reagan Moroz of Perry with 8,620 minutes
• Aubrey McCowen of Perry with 5,540 minutes

“The Play to Get Fit Challenge encourages kids to lead an active lifestyle in a way they can see and understand,” said Becky Dziekan, GCC’s director of Health and Physical Education. “Each year, the participating school districts see proof that the program works! Congratulations to LeRoy and all of the students who worked hard to be active and enjoy the program.”

The Health and Physical Education program at Genesee Community College offers several areas of study related to health, fitness and coaching. The Sports Management Studies transfer degree programs or Associate of Science (A.S.) includes foundations in sports facility management, accounting, marketing and more. The Fitness and Recreation Management Applied Associate of Science degree (A.A.S.) offers a Personal Trainer concentration and the opportunity to earn the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) credential through the American Council on Exercise (ACE) as a certified personal trainer. In addition, GCC offers an A.A.S in Physical Education Studies in which students have the opportunity to earn a coaching certificate for NYS non-Certified Physical Education Teachers.

The spring semester starts January 13, 2019, so there is still time to register! GCC has more than 80 introductory courses available, including Beginning Personal Fitness (PED259) which teaches basic fitness training and conditioning techniques to help anyone make active choices. The full spring semester course schedule is available at https://www.genesee.edu/courses/schedule/.

For more information, contact Becky Dziekan, GCC’s director of Health and Physical Education at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6424, or via email: rldziekan@genesee.edu.

L to R: (front row) Amanda Cook, 2nd Jonah Arroyo; 1st Ryan Bigsby, 3rd Dominic Darch; (back row) James Patric, GCC Director of Health and PE Rebecca Dziekan

L to R: Principal Maura Gilsinan, GCC Director of Health and PE Rebecca Dziekan, 2nd Aubrey McCowen; 1st Reagan Moroz; 3rd Tysen Deaton, Perry Central School Physical Education (PE) Teacher Rodney Allen

Tammi Bale of “Just Socks, Ma” Campaign

Press Release:

There is currently no vaccine available to prevent Hepatitis C, but early diagnosis of Hepatitis C is important as it can prevent serious liver problems. Approximately 3.2 million people in the U.S. have chronic Hepatitis C, but most do not know that they are infected. This is exactly why testing is so important!

Hepatitis C is primarily spread through contact with blood from an infected person, even in amounts too small to see. People with Hepatitis C often have no symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they can be a sign of advanced liver disease (such as cirrhosis or scarring of the liver). “Hepatitis C is a leading cause of liver cancer and the leading cause of liver transplants,” stated Deputy Director, Brenden Bedard, of Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments. New treatments for Hepatitis C are available and more are in development. Today, chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is usually curable with oral medications taken every day for two to six months. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, “The homeless population is disproportionately impacted by HCV infection, with an estimated prevalence of 22% to 53% percent.” (Dan, 2018).

Hepatitis C Testing is recommended if you,

o Were born from 1945 through 1965
o Injected drugs
o Received donated blood or organs before 1992
o Have been exposed to blood on the job through a needle stick injury with a sharp object
o Have medical conditions, such as chronic liver disease or HIV/AIDS

To increase awareness about Hepatitis C, the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments are donating socks to Tammi Bale who operates the “Just Socks, Ma” Campaign, collecting socks to donate to those in need in memory of her son Robert Bale who passed away of a drug overdose in 2016. “These socks read #NYCuresHepC and is a reminder to get tested and that a cure is available to those who need it. It’s a small way to give back to the community this holiday season and increase a valuable message,” said Bedard.

“Not one more is needed,” stated Bale, referring to deaths caused by overdoses and hepatitis C. “This is my third year collecting socks and donating them to the homeless in memory of Robert. I wasn’t able to help him because I didn’t know anything was wrong (substance use disorder). He had a good job, was working 50 hours a week and had just gotten a raise. No one knew his secret, not even his roommate. It’s good to try to find out what is happening in your child’s life so this doesn’t happen. This campaign makes me happy and hopefully make Robert proud.” Tammi is also giving back by operating a Facebook group named “Angel Mothers Unite” providing uplifting messages to those who need it.

Donald Trump has now become the third president in U.S. history to be impeached.
Two articles of impeachment were approved after a day-long debate in the Democratic-led House.
One article covers abuse of power, and the other involves obstruction of Congress.
Both votes fell primarily along party lines.
New York Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand are sharing their thoughts on the impeachment.
Schumer, the Senate Minority Leader, called Trump’s impeachment a solemn and serious moment for our country.
Senator Gillibrand called the facts laid out by the House disturbing and said it’s up to the Senate to try the president for these alleged crimes.
Two-thirds of that chamber would have to vote to convict the president in order to remove him from office.
A trial in the U.S. Senate could begin as early as next month.

Batavia Police bust a LeRoy man for shoplifting in the city.
City Police apprehended 23 year old Kyle Schroeder of Telephone Road LeRoy following report earlier this month of a shoplifting incident at a business housed in the Plaza at 412 East Main Street in Batavia.
Schroeder allegedly took an item out of its packaging and placed the empty package back on the shelf as he attempted to make his way out of the store with the concealed item.
He is facing a count of Petit Larceny and was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court at a later date.

A Bank Street man busted for Harassment.
Batavia Police arrested 39 year old Jose Fuentes late last Friday night after receiving a complaint from a Bank Street residence.
Fuentes was charged with Harassment in the 2nd and given an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court on Christmas Eve.

Governor Cuomo is continuing to roll out the initiatives he’ll be talking about in his upcoming State of the State address.
Yesterday, the governor announced a three-part proposal to cut the cost of prescription drugs in the Empire State.
He wants to see legislation passed that would limit co-payments for insulin and start a mandatory investigation into rising drug prices.
Cuomo is set to give his State of the State on January 8th.

The Buffalo Sabres will look to snap their two-game losing streak tonight in the City of Brotherly Love.
They’ll be taking on the Philadelphia Flyers at the Wells Fargo Center.
Sabres captain Jack Eichel has been red hot as of late, scoring a point in his last 17 games.
Faceoff for tonight’s contest is set for 7 p.m.

Anibal Soler, Jr. has been named by the Batavia City School District’s Board of Education as the district’s next Superintendent.
Since 2018 Soler, Jr. has been employed as the Associate Superintendent of Strategic Alignment and Innovation for the Buffalo Public Schools, New York State’s second largest school district.
He began teaching in 2000 as an art teacher at Thomas Middle School in the Rochester City School District before becoming Principal of East High School, also in the Rochester City School District and then Principal of North Park Academy, in the Buffalo Public School District.
Soler Jr. begins his new position in Batavia on January 20th.

Plush Dozier

New charges facing Batavia man accused Attempted Murder and Arson.
Plush Dozier who is jailed without bail awaiting trial on counts of Arson and Attempted Murder is now facing new charges from his alleged behavior while in custody since his arrest in in the summer of 2018.
Dozier was initially arrested back in June of 2018 after allegedly setting fire to a Maple Street address intending to kill his girlfriend.
He has recently been indicted on counts of Criminal Mischief in both the second and third degrees.
He is accused of kicking out a plate of glass in a holding cell at the Genesee County Jail in August of last year, which caused more than $5,000 damage then causing more than $250 of damage to a Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle later that month.
Dozier continues to be held without bail.

Bergen robbery suspect in custody after allegedly assaulting officers and pouring gasoline on them.
31 year old Elon Seeger, of Bergen has been charged with counts of Robbery by Monroe County Sheriff’s Deputies, as well as Assault, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property and Resisting Arrest by Gates Police.
According to lawmen he stole a vehicle in Bergen on December 15 during a domestic incident.
Seeger allegedly drove the stolen vehicle at Genesee County Sheriff’s deputies that same day, then robbed a Kwik Fill on Buffalo Road in Chili and successfully fled from lawmen in Scottsville later that night.
The following day Seeger allegedly robbed a Speedway on Chili Avenue and as Police approached attempting to take him into custody he is allegedly assaulted the two officers and poured gasoline on them.
He was committed to the Monroe County Jail with his next court appearance scheduled to appear for December 20th.

The National Weather Service has issued a Special Weather Statement alerting of a band of lake effect snow producing up to an inch of snow per hour that is moving across the region from Niagara and Orleans Counties this morning.
The band is expected to maintain its current intensity while dropping southward through 8 am, bringing greatly reduced visibilities and very poor driving conditions to the area during the morning commute.
Forecasters say to be prepared for greatly reduced visibilities and snow covered roads.
Slow down and allow extra time when traveling.

Buffalo Sabres captain Jack Eichel tallied a point for a 17th straight game, but it wasn’t enough to push his team past the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Eichel, Rasmus Dahlin and Kyle Okposo each had goals for Buffalo as they lost 5 to 3 last night on the road.
The Sabres have now lost 2 straight and sit 10 points behind the Boston Bruins for first place in the NHL’s Atlantic Division.
Buffalo will be back in action Thursday when they visit the Philadelphia Flyers.

Shari Lynne Ball

Press Release:

Cold Case Tuesday: New York State Police in Batavia continue to investigate the 1983 homicide of a Florida woman found in Orleans County.

On October 29, 1983, a body was found by a hunter off of State Route 63 in the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, in the town of Shelby, Orleans County. The victim was found several feet off the shoulder of the roadway, in a severely decomposed state, and is believed to have been there for several months.

In 1984, the Center of Human Identification was used by the New York State Police to make a facial reconstruction from the remains (pictured). This was done to make a facial render to give the public a possible identity to compare and also render sketches.

In October of 2013, the body was exhumed and DNA testing was done. The victim was identified as Shari L. Ball.

Shari Lynne Ball was reported missing by her family in June of 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.

At the time of her disappearance, Ball was living in Boca Raton, Florida, was a 20 year old white female, 5’ 4”, 100 pounds, with hazel eyes and blonde hair. Shari Lynne was also known to use the last name of Timmerman.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Batavia by calling 585-344-6200. Please refer to SJS # 3032334.

37 year old Dustin Wayne Bogue, a homeless man with ties to Batavia was sentenced to 12 and a half years in prison after accepting a plea agreement for robbing the Speedway on West Main Street in Batavia.
Bogue pleaded guilty to first-degree robbery after additionally being charged with criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of stolen property from the September robbery.
The maximum sentence Bogue faced was 15 years with a minimum of 10 years under terms of a previous plea agreement.
District Attorney Lawrence Friedman said Judge Charles Zambito decided to split in half the maximum statutory time of 25 years, which is how he arrived at 12 and a half years

An East Main Street woman jailed for beating up her live-in boyfriend.
23 year old Katty Jackson of Batavia is facing charges of Harassment, Strangulation, Unlawful Imprisonment and Criminal Mischief following investigation into a domestic incident that allegedly occurred earlier this month.
Jackson was subsequently arraigned in City Court and remanded to jail to appear in Batavia City Court at a later date.

A Rochester man busted for driving over twice the legal limit after crashing in Bergen.
26 year old Thomas Noce of Rochester was arrested following investigation into motor vehicle accident on Clinton Street Road in Bergen late last night.
Noce was charged with Aggravated DWI for recording a Blood Alcohol Content over twice the legal limit, Reckless Driving, failing to stop at a stop sign and Operating a Motor Vehicle while using a portable electronic device.
He was ultimately released with an appearance ticket for January 8th in Bergen Town Court.

Martins and Salvania’s Restaurants will not be serving customers in the New Year.
Both businesses made recent announcements that they are closing with the doors of Martin’s Restaurant already shuttered and Salvania’s to close at the end of 2019.
Laura Salvania says she is closing after 38 years on Jackson Street, however she is not ready to hang up the spatula quite yet as she is considering starting a small catering business out of her home.
Those holding gift certificates for Salvania’s are encouraged to use them as soon as possible, before they become nonredeemable at end of the year.

A new report says Congress has set aside money for the International Joint Commission to review a controversial flood prevention plan.
Many believe Plan 2014 has actually led to more flooding along the shoreline of Lake Ontario in recent years.
The Buffalo News reports over a million dollars in federal funding has been set aside to help the IJC revise and study the plan.
Right now, water levels in the lake are 17 inches higher than the long-term monthly average for December, which is causing concerns about severe flooding in the spring.
The IJC says it’ll start reviewing Plan 2014 once the agency receives the government’s money.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo

Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced the 1st proposal of his 2020 State of the State agenda.
He proposed preventing individuals from receiving New York State gun licenses if they commit a crime in another state that is similar to a crime that would disqualify them from owning a gun in New York.
State law currently prohibits individuals from obtaining a gun license if they commit certain New York misdemeanors that are deemed “serious offenses.” like domestic violence or forcible touching. However, the law does not prohibit individuals from obtaining a New York gun license after committing comparable misdemeanors in another state.
The Governor proposes amending the New York Penal Law to prevent such individuals from obtaining a gun license in New York.

DWI arrests reported during the start of Holiday STOP-DWI crackdown.
As one of the busiest travel times of the year is underway so is a special enforcement effort by State, County and local law enforcement across New York to crackdown on drunk and distracted driving through New Year’s Day.
In Genesee County, Sheriff’s Deputies have arrested three people for drunk driving over the first weekend of the detail.
54 year old Linda Doucette of Brockport, 57 year old Matthew Vandyne of Canandaigua, and 20 year old Baillie Schwab of Attica were all arrested and charged with DWI and various other counts over the weekend.

A new law now in effect in New York is continuing to stir controversy especially with County Clerks in the State.
The so-called “green light” legislation allows undocumented immigrants to apply for driver’s licenses.
All they need is a combination of documents proving their name, date of birth and New York State residency.
The law, passed earlier this year, has been challenged in court by opponents who claim it puts county clerks at odds with federal immigration law.
Supporters say the legislation will increase driving safety, allow undocumented immigrants to get to work and medical appointments and also create revenue for the state.

For the second time in the last three seasons, the Buffalo Bills are heading to the playoffs.
Jordan Poyer and Levi Wallace each picked off Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Delvin Hodges in the end zone late in the fourth quarter in Buffalo’s 17 to 10 road win on Sunday Night Football.
Bills quarterback Josh Allen threw for 117 yards and a touchdown and also had a rushing TD in the victory.
The Bills are now 10 and four on the season and have reached double-digit wins for the first time since 1999.
Up next is a Saturday afternoon showdown with the AFC East leading New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium.

33 year old Edward Simmons of Applegate Drive in Medina was taken into custody following investigation into a burglary in the Town of Oakfield.
Simmons is accused of breaking into an East Shelby Road residence in Oakfield in September and stealing a 22-caliber Remington rifle and over a $1,000 worth of property.
He was arrested on December 9th and arraigned in Oakfield Town Court on two counts of Grand Larceny and a count of Burglary.
Simmons was released on his own recognizance and is due back in court on January 6th.

Genesee County Clerk in majority of State County Clerks calling for delay on ‘Green Light Law’.
Twenty-seven County Clerks in New York State with DMV responsibilities, including Genesee County Clerk Michael Cianfrini, have called on Governor Andrew Cuomo and NYS DMV Commissioner Mark Schroeder to halt implementation of the Driver License Access & Privacy Act immediately for the safety and security of all New Yorkers.
County clerks agree that the State DMV failed to provide regulations that would ensure the integrity of the identification process for Standard Driver License applicants.
The group says they have been provided no standard to prevent someone who has a Social Security number from signing the affidavit form (NSS-1) claiming they’ve never been issued one, enabling people to conceal their true identities.
After citing other issues with the process the group called for the implementation of the so-called ‘Green Light Law’ to be delayed until October 1st when the federal REAL ID Act goes into effect, which increases security standards for certain state-issued driver licenses and identity documents.

Local law enforcement is taking part in a Statewide special enforcement effort to crackdown on impaired driving over the Holiday season.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, City of Batavia and Village of LeRoy Police Departments will be out in force for the rest of the month as part of the statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown efforts that began on December 11th and will end on January 1st.

The Genesee County Highway Department announced that Bloomingdale Road in the Town of Alabama was reopened to all traffic Friday morning.
The department announced on November 1st that Bloomingdale Road between Wright Road and Tensow Road in the Town of Alabama would be closed through approximately December 6th.

The Buffalo Bills hit the road this weekend for a game that will likely have major playoff implications.
They’re visiting Heinz Field to battle the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday Night Football.
Right now, the Bills hold the fifth seed in the AFC while the Steelers are right behind them in sixth.
Should Buffalo win, they’d clinch a spot in the postseason.
Kickoff for Sunday night’s contest is set for 8:20 p.m.

A local law was adopted Thursday by the Genesee County Legislature that set the salaries for seven officer positions for next year.
Legislators voted in favor of Local Law No. 3 of 2019 that established salaries for the elected or appointed positions for a fixed term.
Salaries for Commissioner of Elections Lori Longhany and Richard Siebert is set at $49,037; Highway Superintendent Tim Hens will be paid $113,421; Director of Real Property Tax Services Kevin Andrews salary is $65,410; Director of Human Resources Anita Cleveland will be receiving $78,676; Sheriff William Sheron is being paid $106,518; Treasurer Scott German, $99,393; and the Commissioner of Social Services David Rumsey will be compensated $87,999.
The local law and new payment structure takes effect on Jan. 1, 2020.

A Corfu man arrested over twice the legal limit following a crash in the Village.
Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies were called to a motor vehicle accident on West Main Street in Corfu Last night just after 7:30 p.m.
Deputies took 38 year old Brandon Rindell of West Main Street into custody for Aggravated DWI with a Blood Alcohol Content of .18 % or higher and DWI.
Rindell was given appearance tickets for Corfu Village Court on Monday.

State health officials have voted to extend the ban on the sale of flavored e-cigarettes.
The regulations, set to expire Sunday, will now be place for another 90 days.
Enforcement of the ban was supposed to start in October but is still being challenged in court by the vaping industry.
Supporters say they hope lawmakers will vote to put a permanent ban in place when the Legislature returns in January.
Opponents say such a move could force vape shops to close and push people back towards using traditional cigarettes.

A new report shows the number of flu cases is surging statewide.
The Department of Health says there were over 18-hundred new cases of the virus reported during the week ending December 7th.
That’s a 60 percent jump from the week before and brings the total number of confirmed cases statewide to nearly five-thousand for the season.
Doctors say if you haven’t gotten your flu shot yet, you need to do it immediately.

Local law enforcement is taking part in a Statewide special enforcement effort to crackdown on impaired driving over the Holiday season.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, City of Batavia and Village of LeRoy Police Departments will be out in force for the rest of the month as part of the statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown efforts that began on December 11th and will end on January 1st.

The Buffalo Bills hit the road this weekend for a game that will likely have major playoff implications.
They’re visiting Heinz Field to battle the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday Night Football.
Right now, the Bills hold the fifth seed in the AFC while the Steelers are right behind them in sixth.
Should Buffalo win, they’d clinch a spot in the postseason.
Kickoff for Sunday night’s contest is set for 8:20 p.m.

The Buffalo Sabres are on a three-game winning streak, and they have their captain to thank for it.
Jack Eichel scored twice last night as the Sabres beat the Nashville Predators four to three at KeyBank Center.
Victor Olofsson and Jimmy Vesey also added goals as Buffalo moved within eight points of first place in the NHL’s Atlantic Division.
The Sabres will be back in action tomorrow afternoon when they visit the New York Islanders.

Kelly Mickey (center) signs her Letter of Intent with Genesee Women’s Soccer

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY… The Genesee Community College Women’s Soccer program just signed their fourth recruit of the year on December 2nd, Kelly Mickey. Cougars Head Coach Jeff Reyngoudt traveled to Elba Central School to sign Mickey. Kelly is a 5’2” spit fire forward and a 4-year varsity starter for the Oakfield-Alabama/Elba girls’ soccer team. She is a two-time Genesee Region All-Star and appeared in the Exceptional Senior Game this past fall. Kelly has 35 career goals and 20 career assists. She will be majoring in General Studies and plans to become a Dental Hygienist in the future.

Kelly was recommended to our coaching staff by Genesee Women’s Soccer Player Alumni, Breyanna Crawford, who played here in 2015 and 2016. Brey is now the assistant girls’ soccer coach at Oakfield-Alabama/Elba and had only positive things to say about Mickey. She had compared Kelly to another GCC Alumnus, Shawna Adams. Adams played at Genesee from 2014-2015 and was on the team that appeared in the NJCAA Division III Women’s Soccer National Championships. Shawna was the leading scorer in her two years and is the team record holder for career goals (47).

Macy Reyngoudt, assistant women’s soccer coach, had watched Kelly play in their first round of sectionals and was blown away by her tenacity and strength to carry her team. “This kid has a lot of heart and that’s exactly what we’re looking for right now”, stated Macy.

Jeff and Macy will be signing more players in the coming months. They are excited about next year’s incoming class and also expect a lot from their returning freshmen class. If you are interested in trying out for next year’s 2020 Genesee Cougars, please email Jeff Reyngoudt at jcreyngoudt@genesee.edu

The 2019 Genesee women’s soccer program finished the season with a record of 10-7 and made it to the NJCAA Region III final four.

Press Release:

Genesee County STOP-DWI Coordinator Matt Landers announced today that the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, City of Batavia Police Department and the Village of LeRoy Police Department will participate in a special enforcement effort to crackdown on impaired driving.

While we spend this Holiday Season celebrating with friends and family and looking forward to the blessings of a New Year the law enforcement community across New York State will take to the roads in an effort to stop impaired driving, prevent injuries and save lives. The statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown efforts start on December 11th and will end on January 1st. New York State Police, County Sheriff and municipal law enforcement agencies across the state will be out in force.

Research shows that high-visibility enforcement can reduce impaired driving fatalities by as much as 20 percent. Sobriety checkpoints play a key part in raising awareness about the problem.

While STOP-DWI efforts across New York have led to significant reductions in the numbers of alcohol and drug related fatalities, still too many lives are being lost because of crashes caused by drunk or impaired drivers. Highly visible, highly publicized efforts like the STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign aim to further reduce the incidence of drunk and impaired driving.

The STOP-DWI Holiday Crackdown is one of many statewide enforcement initiatives promoted by STOP-DWI NY and the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. The Statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign also targets the 4th of July, Labor Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Memorial Day, Super Bowl weekend and St. Patrick’s Day.

You can help to make a difference by ‘Having a Sober Plan’! Download our mobile app – “Have a Plan” and you will always be able to find a safe ride home www.stopdwi.org/mobileapp Impaired driving is completely preventable. All it takes is a little planning. We wish you and your family and friends a very safe and Happy Holiday season!

Jasmine Mercado (center) with Genesee Head Coach Jeff Reyngoudt (left) and Ashley Hearn (right) after Mercado signed her Letter of Intent

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY… The Genesee Community College women’s soccer team signed another recruit for the incoming 2020-2021 season as Jasmine Mercado signed her Letter of Intent. Head Coach, Jeff Reyngoudt, traveled to Keshequa Central School to sign forward, Jasmine Mercado. Jasmine is a 5’2” go-getter and a three-year varsity athlete for Keshequa girls’ soccer team. Jasmine is the fifth recruit to sign with Genesee this off-season.

She was awarded Livingston County All-Star and appeared in the Exceptional Senior Game this past fall. She was also captain of her team during her senior season. Jasmine has 20 career goals, 7 career assists, and also runs track at her high school.

Jeff had watched Mercado play when her high school team competed against Albion High School at Genesee’s soccer facilities. Not only was he impressed by her style of play, but some of Genesee’s current women’s soccer players were present at the game and were also excited about her abilities. “She’s incredibly feisty, quick, and always fights to get the ball back. That is the style of play that we plan on recruiting for the 2020 season”, said Head Coach, Jeff Reyngoudt.

Jeff and assistant coach, Macy Reyngoudt, are still in the process of recruiting for their 2020 team and have some more signings coming up. They are excited about next year’s incoming class and also expect a lot from their returning freshmen class. If you are interested in trying out for next year’s 2020 Genesee Cougars, please email Jeff Reyngoudt at jcreyngoudt@genesee.edu

Gov. Andrew Cuomo

Governor Cuomo is going to be facing a legal battle with New York State Republicans who have fled a lawsuit for his failing to call for a special election in the 27th Congressional District.
The governor is apparently violating the constitutional and civil rights of voters in the district according to claims by GOP officials.
Cuomo has said on multiple occasions that he was looking to hold the special election on April 28th when New York holds its presidential primary.
Republicans say their candidate would be at a disadvantage if Cuomo picked that date as there will likely be a lot of registered Democrats at the polls that day.
The congressional seat has remained open since Chris Collins stepped down after pleading guilty to federal insider trading charges.
There has been no comment from the governor’s office regarding the lawsuit.

Robert Bausch the Genesee County Legislature Chairman is heading into retirement from County Government.
He was surrounded by colleagues and friends to celebrate his retirement during a reception in his honor yesterday afternoon at the Old Courthouse.
Bausch said he was proud of how well the legislature works together and what they have accomplished during his tenure…

He added that getting the new county jail project financing in place is another one of the legislature’s major accomplishments.
Bausch is stepping down after 10 years as a legislator, including the past two as the board chair.
The District 2 representative also has chaired the Ways & Means Committee for the past six years.

State health officials are expected to make a renewed push today to ban the sale of flavored e-cigarettes.
An emergency ban was put in place back in September but was challenged in court by the Vapor Technology Association and two affiliates, preventing it from being enforced.
Today’s meeting of the state Department of Health’s Public Health and Health Planning Council will call for the renewal of the emergency regulations and there will be discussion about adopting permanent rules.
Those guidelines would add menthol to the list of banned flavors and make clear the ban only applies to the sale of e-cigarettes by retailers.

Republican State Senator Joseph Robach says he won’t run for re-election in 2020.
Robach represents the 56th State Senate district that covers several Monroe County communities as well as part of Rochester.
Robach has spent nearly three decades representing the area and currently holds the Assistant Minority Whip position.
Robach says he’s leaving office because Democrats, who have the majority in the Senate, have made it difficult to pass any significant reforms that affect people living upstate.

The Buffalo Sabres are turning back the clock tonight for their game against the Nashville Predators.
Crews have been hard at work transforming KeyBank Center for ’80s night.
T-shirts have been placed on each seat to help recreate the look of Memorial Auditorium where the team used to play.
The Sabres will be honoring alumni from the ’80s and also use special music and graphics during the game.
Faceoff for tonight’s contest is set for 7:00 p.m.

Joe Beard

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY (12/11/2019) More and more, the traditional ribbon-and-bow-wrapped gifts are being replaced by the gift of shared experiences – such as tickets to events. Hence, the Genesee Center for the Arts located at Genesee Community College has announced its spring season line-up in time for the holidays. Spring 2020 brings a playbill fit to entertain everyone.

Excited to begin the season, GCC’s student performers, the Forum Players, will perform Doubt: A Parable, written by John Patrick Shanley, which won both a Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award in 2005. This performance is a brilliant and powerful drama which tells the story of Bronx school principal Sister Aloysius, who takes matters into her own hands when she suspects the young Father Flynn of improper relations with a male student. Shanley not only wrote the play, but he also wrote the screenplay and directed it as a film starring Meryl Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman. GCC’s talented Forum Players will also bring this parable to life with four live performances, directed by Maryanne Arena and Jaime Arena, which are intended for mature audiences.

• Thursday, February 20, 2020 at 12:30 p.m.
• Friday, February 21 and Saturday, February 22, 2020, both at 7:30 p.m.
• Sunday, February 23, 2020 at 2 p.m.

On Friday, March 27, 2020 at 7:30 p.m., the Stuart Steiner Theatre will host singer-guitarist Steve Grills and the Roadmasters. Originally from Rochester, N.Y., Grills’ music is deeply rooted in the blues tradition. He draws inspiration from the giants of blues guitar, such as Freddie King, Earl Hooker, Magic Sam and Albert Collins, among many others. As a special addition to the evening, fellow Rochester guitarist Joe Beard, originally from Ashland, Mississippi, will join the Roadmasters as an opening act. Beard has played many major festivals in the U.S. and Europe and was inducted into the Rochester Music Hall of Fame in 2017. He has released four albums to great critical acclaim.

Then, in May, the Forum Players return with a Children’s Theatre production of Jack, written by Mike Kenny. Kenny’s version of Jack and the Beanstalk, directed by Norm Gayford and Rob Reiss, adds a wonderfully creative and contemporary twist to the classic storyline. The production will open with Jack in a dinner pot awaiting his fate as the main course for the hungry giant. As Jack recounts how he found himself on the giant’s dinner menu, he talks his way out of the soup pot with a fun, humorous outburst that keeps audiences laughing and begging for more.

Take a magical journey up a beanstalk into an unknown world above the clouds and back again. This is perfect family fun for all generations.

• Friday, May 1, 2020 at 7 p.m.
• Saturday, May 2, 2020 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Sunday, May 3, 2020 at 2 p.m.

Tickets for shows at GCC’s Stuart Steiner Theatre are $8 for adults, $6 for alumni (with ID) and $5 for seniors (55+), students (16+) and GCC faculty/ staff. GCC students with ID and children under 16 are $3. To reserve seats, contact the GCC box office at boxoffice@genesee.edu or (585) 345-6814.

The Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task force executed a search warrant on a South Ave address that resulted in the arrest of three Medina residents on drug and weapons charges.
Police seized over an ounce of crack cocaine packaged for sale, cash, a loaded semi-auto handgun, a stungun, synthetic marijuana and various drug packaging materials in the search.
Police took 40 year old Brandon Askew and 48 year old Lisa Mailman both into custody at the residence and 30 year old Mathew Parker, was apprehended later at a separate location.
Askew is facing Class B Felony counts of Criminal Sale and Possession of a Controlled Substance, all along with a count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon.
Mailman was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and, Parker was charged with two counts each of Criminal Sale and Possession of a Controlled Substance.
Askew was ordered to be held in lieu of 100-thousand dollars bail, while Mailman was held on 20-thousand dollars.
Due to his criminal history, Parker was jailed without bail and all three are due back in Shelby Town Court on Friday.
Investigation is on-going according to lawmen with further charges and arrests pending.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for today.
It’s in effect now until 7 tonight and covers all of Genesee County and Northern Erie County.
The weather service predicts lake effect and blowing snow with accumulations of 3 to 5 inches.
Winds may gust up to 40 miles per hour.

A Penfield woman busted with drugs and drunk driving in Batavia.
36 year old Mellanie Golamb was stopped by Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies on Stephen Hawley Drive in Batavia following a call to emergency dispatchers reporting an erratic driver.
Golamb was subject to a series of field sobriety tests and was subsequently arrested and charged with Aggravated DWI for driving over twice the legal limit, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance along with several other infractions. She was released with an appearance ticket for Batavia Town Court on December 19th.

A Batavia woman arrested after found sleeping in her vehicle.
Batavia Police report the arrest of 54 year old Karen Lau of North Spruce Street in the City after she was found sleeping in the drivers seat of her vehicle in the parking lot of a local business on East Main Street.
She was charged with Aggravated DWI for recording a Blood Alcohol Content of .18 percent or more and was issued appearance tickets for Batavia City Court on December 18th.

The battle over banning the sale of flavored e-cigarettes in New York isn’t over yet.
Emergency regulations were approved in September, but the vaping industry mounted a legal challenge to keep them from being enforced.
Tomorrow, state health officials are expected to take steps to keep those regulations alive.
They’re planning to add menthol to the list of prohibited flavors and also make clear that the ban would only affect retail sales of e-cigarettes.
The hope is to keep the ban in place long enough to allow lawmakers to come back in January and pass permanent legislation.

David Saleh

Local lawyer David Saleh has been named part-time Batavia City Court judge.
In accepting the judgeship, Saleh must give up his post as City Republican Party Chairman.
Saleh replaces Durin Rogers who was elected to the full time Batavia City Court judge in November.
Rogers’ term is for 10 years, Saleh will serve a six year term beginning January 1st
City Council unanimously approved Saleh’s appointment last night.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for tomorrow. It takes effect at 5AM and covers all of Genesee County and Northern Erie County. It is set to expire at 7 tomorrow night.
The weather service predicts lake effect and blowing snow with accumulations of 3 to 5 inches. Winds may gust up to 40 miles per hour.

Former Republican Congressman Chris Collins has reached a settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission following a guilty plea on federal insider trading charges.
As part of the deal, the ex-27th District representative can no longer be on the board of a publicly traded company.
His son Cameron will have to pay back over 634-thousand dollars for his part in the scheme and Stephen Zarsky, whose daughter is engaged to Collins’ son Cameron, will need to hand over 159-thousand dollars.

A new report is showing some encouraging signs in the fight against the opioid crisis.
Data shows opioid overdose deaths outside of New York City have dropped for the first time since 2009.
The Department of Health says opioid-related fatalities dropped from 21-hundred in 2017 to 18-hundred in 2018

Hiago Barros de Souza (right) joined by Assistant Vice President of Student Engagement and Inclusion Kristen Schuth as he signs his Letter of Intent with Mid-America Christian University (MACU) to continue his soccer career

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY… Genesee men’s soccer player Hiago Barros de Souza is continuing his soccer and academic career as he will be attending Mid-America Christian University (MACU) in the fall.

Barros de Souza will be heading to an NAIA Evangels program that finished the 2019 regular season with a record of 20-3-1 and are the 2019 NCCAA National Champions. The Evangels were also the 2019 NCCAA Central Region Champions. Hiago will join former Cougar Rodrigo Albuquerque wearing the Red, White, and Black of MACU.
A 5’7 sophomore from Cerquilho, Brazil, Hiago Barros de Souza played in a total of 43 games wearing the Genesee Blue and Gold. Hiago started 33 of those contests, scoring 47 career goals. Barros de Souza tallied 27 assists and totaled 121 points in his two years. His 121 points places him second in school history and sits as the leader in goals and points in a single season.

2019 was a breakout season for Barros de Souza, leading the country in goals (34) and points (82). Hiago was also named an NJCAA Division III First Team All-American as well as named to the NJCAA Region III All-Region Team as well as an Western New York Athletic Conference All-Conference team member.

The 2019 Cougars reached the NJCAA Division III Men’s Soccer National Semifinals, losing to eventual national champion Richland College.

Kellie Brewer (left) and Alyson LaBarr (right) signed their Letters of Intent with Genesee Women’s Soccer. Joining them is Sophomore Autumn Ressue

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY… On December 2nd, the Genesee Community College Women’s Soccer team signed two more recruits for the upcoming year, Alyson LaBarr and Kellie Brewer.

Alyson LaBarr, 5-7”, is a center back from Williamsville, NY and Kellie Brewer, 5’5”, is a goalkeeper from Sodus, NY. Alyson is a High Honor Roll student who plans to major in Business. She is a 3-year varsity athlete and has been First Team All-County for the past two years. She was a captain of her team during her senior season and led her team to sectional finals, where they became the 2019 champions. LaBarr also appeared in the Exceptional Senior game this year.

Kellie is not only a 4-year varsity soccer player, but is also a three-sport athlete at her high school, including basketball and softball. She was awarded Wayne County All Star and appeared in the Exceptional Senior game, alongside with Alyson. Alyson and Kellie know each other from playing together in travel leagues over the years and made their commitment to GCC at the same time.

Soon-to-be graduating Genesee Cougar Sophomore, Autumn Ressue, also played with Alyson and Kellie in years past. She had nothing but good things to say about both of them and was excited when she heard of their interest. “Both of these girls are extremely hard workers and I truly think GCC will be a great fit for them”, said Ressue. Genesee coaches Jeff and Macy Reyngoudt are excited about these recruits. “We are losing a lot of our defense and both of our keepers from this past season. These two are the start of our back for next year and I know they will fit well with the current freshmen class”, states Head Coach Jeff Reyngoudt.

Jeff and assistant coach, Macy Reyngoudt, are getting the ball rolling when it comes to recruiting for the 2020 fall season. They have been working hard speaking to 2020 prospects and will be signing more players in the coming months. They are excited about next year’s incoming class and have high hopes for the team to exceed people’s expectations. If you are interested in trying out for next year’s 2020 Genesee Cougars, please email Jeff Reyngoudt at jcreyngoudt@genesee.edu

The 2019 Genesee women’s soccer program finished the season with a record of 10-7 and made it to the NJCAA Region III final four.

Batavia City Council members have appointed longtime attorney David Saleh as part-time City of Batavia Court Judge.
Saleh will be filling the vacancy created by former part-time judge Durin Rogers who in November was elected as the full-time City Court Jusitce.
Council members voted unanimously in favor of Saleh’s hiring at the close of their Business meeting at City Hall Council Chambers last night.
Saleh begins his six year term on January 1st 2020.

Delays on Ellicott Station project development continue.
Since Buffalo developer Sam Savarino bought the Della Penna and Santy’s Tire property for 60-thousand dollars 3 and a half years ago, no visible work has been done on the promised remediation of the brownfield site.
Savarino has also only put 5-thousand dollars on the down payment for the property.
Savarino proposed the construction of a commercial and retail space, including the Resurgence Brewing Company and 55 medium income apartments to the tune of $22.7-million.
The city wants Savarino to begin work by tearing down a garage on the old Santy’s Tire property, which has yet to be done.

Former Republican Congressman Chris Collins has reached a settlement with the Securities and Exchange Commission following a guilty plea on federal insider trading charges.
As part of the deal, the ex-27th District representative can no longer be on the board of a publicly traded company.
His son Cameron will have to pay back over $634,000 for his part in the scheme and Stephen Zarsky, whose daughter is engaged to Cameron Collins, will need to hand over $159,000.
The settlements won’t be official until they’re approved by a federal judge and all three men will be sentenced in federal court next month.

Batavia Police are out with a warning for Holiday shoppers.
Lock your car and don’t leave valuable items in view.
City police have received multiple reports of vehicle thefts and larcenies from cars over the past two weeks.
If you are taking your car after hours to a mechanic, do not leave your keys in the car.
Use a drop-box instead.

A new report is showing some encouraging signs in the fight against the opioid crisis.
Data shows opioid overdose deaths outside of New York City have dropped for the first time since 2009.
The Department of Health says opioid-related fatalities dropped from 21-hundred in 2017 to 18-hundred in 2018.
Once overdose death data is released in New York City, officials will be able to know if the decreases are part of a statewide trend.

A judge has ruled in favor of New York’s controversial school vaccination requirements.
Over 50 families filed a lawsuit earlier this year, claiming the new legislation that eliminates religious exemptions violates the constitution.
But the Albany County Supreme Court judge disagreed, saying the law was put in place due to public health concerns and not to affect anyone’s religious freedom rights.
The vaccination law went into effect in June due to measles outbreaks in New York City and surrounding counties.

The city is still waiting for the first shovel to be put into the ground for the long awaited Ellicott Station project.
It’s been 3 1/2 years since the city announced, with great fanfare, that Buffalo developer Sam Savarino bought the property for $60,000.
Savarino proposed construction spending of 22.7-million dollars. Plans called building for commercial and retail space, the Resurgence Brewing Company and 55 medium income apartments.
To date, Savarino has only spent $5,000 for the down payment on the land and owns the balance.
The city wants Savarino to tear down a garage on the old Santy’s Tire property, work that has yet to be done.

Batavia Police are out with a warning for Holiday shoppers:
Lock your car and don’t leave valuable items in view.
City police have received multiple reports of vehicle thefts and larcenies from cars over the past two weeks. If you are taking your car after hours to a mechanic, do not leave your keys in the car. Use a drop-box instead.

A Rochester man has been arrested for Gang Assault following a fracas on Highland Park in Batavia.
The incident last October 4th ended with a serious injury to one man.
21 year old Terrance Falk of Rochester was charged in the assault.
21 year old Riley Mayor of Batavia, a co-defendant in the case, pled guilty to a charge of second degree assault. A third suspect has yet to be charged.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is calling on the FAA to wrap up its study involving airline seating space.
Schumer says carriers need to allow customers to have more legroom aboard flights. The FAA was supposed to release the report in October, Now, the agency says it will be the end of the year before the report is ready. Schumer says passengers should have enough legroom to recline their seats without affecting people sitting behind them.

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — Maryann Sarama-Luce was a pioneer in harness racing in western New York as one of only a handful of female drivers who raced full time at Batavia Downs. And despite beating the odds more than just in a race, she not only met the challenges she faced in her role, she exceeded them and excelled in the sport for decades.

As a result of her place in the history of harness racing, the Upstate New York Chapter of the United States Harness Writers Association (USHWA) will posthumously present her with their Lifetime Achievement Award on Saturday (Dec. 14) at Batavia Downs during the Night of Distinction awards ceremony.

Maryann Sarama-Luce passed away in July of 2011 at 73 years of age after a long battle with leukemia. She was introduced to the business when she met Danny Sarama in the late 1960’s and from that point on, the two formed the successful Mardan Stable. Their most memorable performer was the pacer You Devil You, who won 10 races in a row in 1976 while rising from a lowly claimer to an Open class pacer. In the early 1980s after separating from Danny, she continued on her own as both a trainer and a driver and had her best year in the bike in 1983 when she won 21 races.

She ended her driving career in 1990 with 109 wins and $201,435 in earnings, but at that point she started training full time and continued to do so until her passing. As a conditioner she sent 107 horses to the winner’s circle and their efforts produced $334,835 in earnings. Some of the best horses she trained included Gold Bandit N, Top Dog Alex, Top Dog Nicholas, Easy L Bar and Guy Lee Debbie.

After her passing, her son Carl and husband Richard have carried on with her stable.

“Harness racing was her number one priority and passion” her daughter Lynette McGiveron said. “Her horses were the driving force behind her battle to recover. Even in her final days she worried more about her horses than herself.”

McGiveron continued “A passion of Maryann’s was to have her mares bred and to raise the foals to race. She named them after her kids and grandchildren and had planned on doing so until every child and grandchild was named. The last foal to be born on her farm was “Top Dog Morgan” named after her grandson. Unfortunately Maryann never got to see it in person. He was born the night she went into the hospital for her final stay.”

Maryann Sarama-Luce will join previous Lifetime Achievement award recipients Gaston Guindon, Fred Haslip, Ken Ball and Gerry Sarama in this honor.

The family of Maryann Sarama-Luce will be presented the award in the Purple Haze Winner’s Circle at Batavia Downs between races on Saturday evening (Dec. 14). Post time for the first race is 6 p.m.

Holiday Classic MVP Alayah Sweeney (24) bringing the ball up against the Ithaca College Club Team Sunday afternoon

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY… The Genesee Community College women’s basketball team won their second straight game, sweeping the 2019 Cougar Holiday Classic with a 72-54 victory over the Ithaca College Bombers Sunday evening.

Five different Cougars scored in double-digits. Alayah Sweeney scored 20 points to lead all scorers. Sweeney also collected 11 rebounds to earn a double-double, as well as two steals and two blocks. Erina Ishiguro scored 13 points, as did Tylasia Weaver. Weaver also collected 11 rebounds, earning a double-double. LisBeth Pineda Polanco scored 10 points with 13 rebounds, and six assists. Haley Alvord scored 11 points.

With her performance over the two-day weekend, Alayah Sweeney was named Most Valuable Player. Erina Ishiguro and LisBeth Pineda Polanco also represented the home team on the All-Tournament Team. Other selections include Libby Cook (Ithaca), Paige Emborsky (Niagara County CC) and Aubrey Halloran (Niagara County CC), and Nicole Chamberlain (CC Rhode Island).

Genesee (6-6) will play at Finger Lakes Community College Tuesday night at 6pm.

Jordan Matos (4) defending against a Schoolcraft player during Sunday’s Cougar Holiday Classic at GCC (Xi Lin – Genesee Athletics)

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY… The Genesee Community College men’s basketball team earned a split at their annual Cougar Holiday Classic Sunday afternoon, dropping to nationally-ranked Schoolcraft College 88-72.

Selassie (Tyler) Bourne scored 11 points with three assists. Isaiah Clemons scored a team-high 12 points with two steels.

Tyler Bourne and Souleymane Gueye represented Genesee on the All-Tournament Team. The rest of the All-Tournament selections were Carl Bow (MVP – Schoolcraft), Tre Harvey (Schoolcraft), Nigel Scantlebury (Niagara CCC), William Kondrat (Niagara CCC), and Mitchell Noresca (CC Rhode Island).

Genesee (8-3) will play Henry Ford College at the Thunderwolves Classic in Sanborn, NY on Saturday, December 14.

Down On My Luck (Photos courtesy of Paul White)

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — After racing at Northfield Park the last two weeks, Down On My Luck returned to Batavia Downs and his winning ways as he captured the $12,500 Open I Handicap pace on Saturday night (Dec. 7).

Cultural Paradise (Billy Davis Jr.) took the lead from the pegs with the field following him in post position order. After going to the half is a very pedestrian :59.1, Monti tapped the gas and pulled the pocket, rocketing alongside and then past Cultural Paradise to take the lead at the three-quarters in 1:27.1. From there Down On My Luck strode out to a two length lead at the head of the stretch and won easily from there by 1-¾ lengths under the light in 1:55.1.

It was the seventh win in only 10 starts at Batavia Downs and the 11th win of the year for Down On My Luck ($6.30) who is owned by Robert Woodburn and trained by Patrick Shepherd.

The $11,000 Open II pace was an interesting affair after Brunello N (Drew Monti) and Lucky McTrucky (Dave McNeight III) battled for most of the second half of the mile and then paced side by side down to the wire where they stopped the clock simultaneously in 1:57.2, resulting in a dead heat.

Brunello N ($2.30) got his third win of the year for owner Carl Monti and trainer Darrin Monti and Lucky McTrucky ($3.00) got his seventh win of 2019 for owner Tessa Roland and trainer JD Perrin.

Monti ended up having a big night, scoring a Grand Slam Saturday. Besides the aforementioned Down On My Luck and Brunello N, Monti also won with Way To Go Fabio (2:00, $2.80) and Santana Beach (1:56.4, $21.40).

Other horsemen having multiple successes during the evening included Denny Bucceri who scored the driving hat trick along with Jim McNeight Jr. and Renaldo Morales III who each had two driving wins. Trainers Jim McNeight and Steve Andzel also both sent out two stable members to victory.

With no winner in the Pick-5 wager on Saturday, there is a $1,164 carryover and a $3,500 guaranteed pool for the Pick-5 wager on Friday (Dec. 13) when racing resumes at Batavia Downs. The pool is part of the United States Trotting Association’s (USTA) Strategic Wagering Program and as such, there will be free program pages available on the USTA’s website on Wednesday morning (Dec. 11). Post time for Friday (Dec. 13) is at 6 p.m.

Brandon Speller (1) moving the ball up the floor against CCRI at the Cougar Holiday Classic

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY… The Genesee Community College men’s basketball team picked up their eighth win of the season Saturday night, defeating the Community College of Rhode Island Knights 75-70 in day one of the 2019 Cougar Holiday Classic.

Selassie (Tyler) Bourne continued his strong play for Genesee, leading the way offensively with 29 points. Souleymane Gueye scored 17 and collected seven rebounds off the bench. Brandon Speller scored 10 points with nine rebounds and six assists.

Genesee will take on nationally-ranked Schoolcraft College at 3pm Sunday afternoon.

Abigail Willis (5) stealing the ball against Rhode Island Saturday during the Cougar Holiday Classic

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY… The Genesee Community College women’s basketball team was in the holiday spirit on Saturday afternoon, defeating the Community College of Rhode Island Knights 75-55 in day one of the 2019 Cougar Holiday Classic.

Alayah Sweeney scored 30 points for the second straight game. Sweeney also collected 12 rebounds and five assists to record a double double. Erina Ishiguro scored 14 points and five assists for Genesee. Tylasia Weaver scored seven points and collected 12 rebounds.

Genesee will take on the Ithaca College Club team on Sunday afternoon at 5pm.

21 year old Terrance Falk of Woodsmeadow Lane in Rochester has been charged with First Degree Gang Assault and Second Degree Harassment in connection to a gang assault on Highland Park in Batavia that left the victim seriously injured.
City Police say the Rochester resident allegedly attacking an individual on October 4th.
21 year old Riley Mayer of Batavia, a codefendant in the case, pled guilty on Thursday to a charge of Second Degree Assault in Genesee County Court.
According to District Attorney Lawrence Friedman a third suspect has not yet been charged.
Falk was arrested in October and arraigned October 7th where he was ordered to be held in the Genesee County Jail on $5,000 bail.

A Lancaster man arrested for bilking Batavia customers for HVAC work.
38 year old Nicholas Durkin of Drullard Ave Lancaster was arrested while he was at Batavia City Court last week on a separate matter.
Durkin was arrested on counts of 3rd and 4th degree Grand Larceny for allegedly taking $4,900 to perform HVAC work a business on Washington Ave in Batavia.
Durkin allegedly received payment and never completed the work he was hired to do back in June of this year.
He was ultimately released with an appearance ticket for City Court.

Hotel Christmas party goer busted for stealing presents.
39 year old Brian Crockett of Portland was arrested by Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies after a party Saturday night being held at a local hotel.
Crockett was charged with petit larceny after he allegedly stole various gift cards valued at $225 from the party. He was located in his hotel room with the stolen gift cards and was given an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court on December 19th.

On Friday Senator Michael Ranzenhofer announced that he will not seek reelection and will retire from the NYS Senate at the end of next year.
In a statement, Ranzenhofer said it has been the highest privilege to represent the many communities of WNY concluding that he looks forward to spending more time with his family.
Following the Senators announcement, Williamsville businesswoman Joan Elizabeth Seamans announced her candidacy for the New York Senate District’s 61st seat.
Seamans ran a very strong race against Senator Michael Ranzenhofer in 2018 and had the closest margins in more than 10 years.

The Buffalo Bills will have to wait at least another week to clinch a playoff berth.
Quarterback Josh Allen and the rest of the offense struggled yesterday as Buffalo fell to the Baltimore Ravens 24 to 17 at New Era Field.
Allen completed only 17 of his 39 passes for 146 yards and a touchdown.
The Bills are nine and four on the season and currently sit fifth in the AFC playoff race.
They face a pivotal game this Sunday night when they travel to Pittsburgh to take on the Steelers.

Fox Valley Veto, Photo by: Paul White

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — With no more Wednesday racing this year at Batavia Downs, the top distaff pace joined the weekly featured trot on Friday night (Dec. 6) with one race providing an upset and the other satisfying the chalk bettors.

In the $12,500 Open I Handicap trot, Fox Valley Veto (Billy Davis Jr.) settled in fourth off the gate and watched as Chuckabuck (Drew Monti) made a break and Alert Hanover (Jim McNeight Jr.) overtook Empire Earl N (Mike Caprio) for the lead at the quarter pole. After all that action sorted itself out, Davis pulled Veto off the pegs at the three-eighths pole and motored to the top by the half in 1:00.2.

As the race progressed onto the second circuit, Wheels A Turning (Shawn McDonough) came calling on the outside and matched strides with Fox Valley Veto up the backside, around the far turn and into the stretch. The battle continued down the lane until Fox Valley Veto slammed the door at the light, winning by one-half length in 1:58.3 at 15-1 .

It was the 11th win of the year for Fox Valley Veto ($33.40) and owners Vogel and Wags Nags Stable and Jack Rice. Maria Rice trains the winner.

Then in the $12,500 Open I Handicap pace of fillies and mares, Lady London (Ray Fisher Jr,) drifted fourth on the outside for the first eighth of a mile before she made a quick rush for the lead at the quarter in :28.2. From there the race was history.

Lady London opened up a 1-½ length lead by the half in :58.3 and extended it to four at the three-quarters in 1:26.4. With no one even close as she sprinted around the last turn, Lady London jogged home wrapped up like a Christmas present to win by 6-½ lengths in 1:56.

It was the third win in the last four starts for Lady London ($5.40) and owner VHF Racing. Sabrina Shaw is the trainer.

Eight participating horse people had multiple win performances on Friday night. Drivers Billy Davis Jr. and Drew Monti led the way with three wins each on the card while Shawn McDonough and John Cummings Jr. both won two. And trainers Sabrina Shaw, Maria Rice, Jim Tronolone and Dave Russo all sent two stablemembers to the winner’s enclosure for photographs.

Racing resumes at Batavia Downs on Saturday (Dec. 7) with pot time at 6 p.m.

23 year old Guillermo Torres-Acevedo, of Batavia, pled guilty in Genesee County Court to one count of second-degree rape while other charges against him were dropped as part of a plea agreement.
While in County Court Friday he admitted to being a to having sexual intercourse with a person under age 15 in the Town of Batavia in Novemeber 2018.
Torres-Acevedo who is a Puerto Rico native is looking at a maximum possible sentence of six years in prison, with 10 years of parole afterward.
He is scheduled to be sentenced on Febreuary 18th in Genesee County Court, following his sentencing in Federal Court on February 13th.
On Wednesday, Torres-Acevedo pled guilty in a Federal Court in Buffalo to enticing a minor, a 14-year-old Bergen girl, to travel across state lines to engage in criminal sexual activity.
Torres-Acevedo faces up to 20 years in prison and a quarter million dollar fine on the federal conviction.

Senator Ranzenhofer announces retirement.
Ranzenhofer made the announcement on Friday that he will not seek reelection and will retire from the NYS Senate at the end of next year.
Ranzenhofer said. “It has been the highest privilege to represent the many communities of WNY and I am proud of what we have accomplished together on behalf of residents.”
Ranzenhofer went on to say that he looks forward to spending more time with his family.
Following the Senators announcement, Williamsville businesswoman Joan Elizabeth Seamans announced her candidacy for the New York Senate District 61 seat.
Seamans ran a very strong race against Senator Michael Ranzenhofer in 2018 and had the closest margins in more than 10 years.

The Boy Scouts of America, Iroquois Trail Council is pleased to announce the Grand Opening of its Volunteer Service and Training Center, located at 102 S Main St. in the Village of Oakfield.
A commemorative ribbon-cutting ceremony will kick off a public Open House on Saturday, December 14.
The doors will be open 1pm-5pm, with the ceremony at 1:30pm.
According to Scout Executive Jim McMullen the new location not only fits the scouts needs but is much more cost-effective than a new build would cost or continuing to lease space.

The City of Batavia Department of Public Works would like to ask for the public’s cooperation in dealing with winter weather.
The City says that private plowing contractors should be aware that plowing snow into the street or onto the sidewalk is not allowed and creates dangerous conditions for motorists and pedestrians.
Property owners are ultimately responsible for clearing sidewalks adjacent to their property.
While the City supplements sidewalk plowing as crews become available this is only completed after streets and municipal parking lots are plowed with School routes and main road sidewalks given priority.

Late this afternoon State Senator Michael Ranzenhofer announced he will not seek re-election next fall.
Ranzenhofer represented the 61st state senate district of New York which includes all of Genesee County as well as a portion of Erie and Monroe counties.
Ranzenhofer, a Republican, has served six terms in the State Senate.

Guillermo Torres-Acevedo has now plead guilty to felony count of rape in a case involving a 14 year old girl he took across state lines last year.
Acevedo appeared in Genesse County Court this morning and accepted a plea deal to a charge of second degree rape.
Earlier this week Acevedo pleaded guilty to federal charges in the same case that could result in a 20 year sentence. His plea today to the state charges could get him a sentence of 6 ½ to 20 years.
There was no guarantee the two terms would run concurrently.Acevedo was arrested in November of 2018 for the rape of the girl. A day later he picked up the girl at Byron-Bergen School and drove her to Mansfield, Pennsylvania triggering an Amber Alert. Lawmen traced them down by tracing the girl’s cellphone.
Sentencing on the federal charge has been set for February 13, five days later he’ll be sentenced on the state charge.

A well-deserved honor today for one of Batavia’s best known couples.
Tom and Lynn Houseknecht have been awarded the Health and Humanitarian Award from the Jerome Foundation.
The award recognizes the many contributions of the Houseknechts to United Memorial Medical Center, the Arc of Genesee Orleans, the Rotary Club and others.
Lynn Houseknecht says the spirit of volunteerism runs through their family as she humbly credited countless others who serve

Several speakers cited not only the Houseknechts’ financial support but the contribution of their time as a husband and wife and family team.

The Buffalo Bills will look to close in on a playoff spot, but to do it, they’ll have to beat the best team in the AFC. Buffalo is hosting the Baltimore Ravens at New Era Field Sunday afternoon. The Bills have won three straight and are just a game behind the New England Patriots for first place in the AFC East.
Buffalo’s showdown with Baltimore is set for one p-m Sunday.

“Today I am announcing that I will not seek reelection and will retire from the NYS Senate at the end of next year,” Ranzenhofer said. “It has been the highest privilege to represent the many communities of WNY and I am proud of what we have accomplished together on behalf of residents.

Despite my decision to retire, I will continue to fight for the residents of the 61st Senate District throughout the remainder of my term. After many years of serving the community, I look forward to spending more time with my family.”

In addition to being a legislator, the senator is a partner with the law firm Friedman and Ranzenhofer.

PHOTO: State Senator Michael Ranzenhofer (R-Amherst) to retire.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that he earned a 92 percent rating from the Conservative Party based on his legislative voting record in 2019, placing him in the upper echelon of all New York State legislators. The Conservative Party ranked legislators based on 25 bills that passed the Assembly and Senate, and evaluated lawmakers’ votes on crucial pieces of legislation.

“Being Conservative isn’t about a party or a label, it’s about standing by the principles of smaller government, less taxes and economic freedom, no matter the cost,” Hawley said. “Here in Western New York, we know what’s best for us, our families and our businesses, and some bureaucrat or politician who has never stepped foot on a farm or been on a thrilling hunt has no right to tell us how to live.”

Among the bills at question were allowing illegal aliens to obtain driver’s licenses, sweeping subsidized housing protections, early voting, farm unionization and expansion of abortion deep into the third trimester – all of which Hawley voted against.

“Conservatism is about an individual’s right to govern themselves above all else and those principles guide me each day,” Hawley continued. “Thank you to the Conservative Party and its leadership for issuing these evaluations and holding all lawmakers accountable to liberty and freedom.”

DONALD T. EICHENAUER TO RETIRE AS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF WYOMING COUNTY COMMUNITY HEALTH SYSTEM AND BE REPLACED BY JOSEPH L. McTERNAN

Press Release

Warsaw, New York, December 5, 2019 – The Wyoming County Community Health System (WCCHS) Board of Managers last week announced the retirement of Donald T. Eichenauer as Chief Executive Officer and the appointment of Joseph L . McTernan to fill that role effective January 1, 2020.

Don has served as WCCHS CEO since March 2012 and had announced his planned retirement approximately one year ago. At that time, the Board embarked on a national search for a replacement.

Joe McTernan, a native of Rockland County New York, was selected to replace Eichenauer and joined WCCHS on August 1, 2019 as Senior Executive Officer. Over the past four months, Joe has been working closely with Don, the Board, and the WCCHS management team to assure a smooth transition.

Joe began his career as a paramedic in New York City. He subsequently moved into hospital administration, including roles in process improvement and internal consulting at New York Presbyterian Hospital. He worked there for more than 12 years before moving to Trinitas Medical Center in Elizabeth, New Jersey as Vice President of Special Operations. Trinitas is a 551-bed hospital with a 120-bed long term care facility. In his role at Trinitas, Joe oversaw numerous operational and clinical departments. Joe and his family have relocated to the area.

Board President, Rich Kosmerl commented, “We are delighted to have Joe join our team in Wyoming County. His early experience as an EMT and paramedic gives him a natural empathy with our county wide volunteer fire department and emergency medical service teams. In just the four months since joining WCCHS, he has demonstrated the skills and knowledge we found him to have during our interview process. He is very familiar with the requirements of New York State Department of Health and has already shown excellent financial skills and leadership in identifying potential future revenue increases and quality and cost improvements. It is good to know we have an experienced and accomplished health care leader in charge of the Health System. As we maintain and expand our services, his experience will play a significant role in continuing our success.

Joe stated, “I am proud to be joining such an incredible organization. The commitment to care for the community is impressive. I look forward to continuing the quality work that Don and the team has instituted.”
At the December 3rd board meeting, Rich thanked Don for his dedication, service and success while serving as CEO of the Hospital and Health System. Rich recited several historical facts associated with Don’s accomplishments. When Don joined the Health System in 2012, it was facing serious financial and operational challenges and discussions were being held as to whether it could remain open. Since that time, the Health System has addressed its financial issues and significantly expanded its services while growing revenue from $49 million to $65 million in 2019. During Don’s tenure at WCCHS the facility also completed a $33 million expansion and modernization plan of the Hospital and attached skilled nursing facility. In addition, several quality measures at the hospital were below average. In 2012, WCCHS ranked last out of over 15 hospitals in the Buffalo/Western New York region in terms of post-surgical infection rates. As of last year, we had improved dramatically moving up to second best, just behind first place. The County was also facing a critical physician shortage with half of the primary care physicians expected to retire and with a general shortage of medical specialty services. Don implemented a broad recruiting strategy that has brought in four new primary care physicians, deployed at sites throughout the County as well as in the hospital, with more on the way. He has also greatly expanded the specialty provider network adding five Orthopedic Surgeons in a new $1.3 million orthopaedic specialty clinic, and added Neurology, OB/GYN, ENT, and other specialty doctors serving at the hospital. Don will spend some additional months as a contracted consultant to the Health System Board of Managers working on specific projects. But as this transition is made, we wish Don the best as he heads into retirement and moves on to his new adventures in life.

Press Release:

Binghamton, NY – New York Farm Bureau members wrapped up their 63rd State Annual Meeting Wednesday, Dec. 4 in Binghamton, NY where Farm Bureau first began more than a century ago. It concluded with an evening banquet full of awards, state dignitaries and celebration of another successful meeting that set the organization’s public policy agenda for 2020.

This year’s theme, “Growing Stronger Together,” was meant to inspire members to build bridges with their communities, lawmakers and consumers. Different speakers and workshops stressed the importance of relationships and working together as farmers, county Farm Bureaus and agricultural organizations in advocating for rural and farming issues.

“Farm Bureau is a community. It is a network of diverse, yet like-minded people who believe in agriculture. Being social, talking to fellow members, and getting involved can help the big issues not seem so daunting, knowing we are all in this together,” said David Fisher, New York Farm Bureau President, during his annual address.

The main focus of State Annual Meeting is the time-honored grassroots process where delegates from 52 county Farm Bureaus across the state discuss and vote on public policy resolutions. Some of the state policy positions added this year include:

• We support the development and funding of a $1.5 million dairy innovation hub at Cornell College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS.)
• We support comprehensive policy and program development in order to limit food waste, to ensure that non-saleable, edible foods are donated to those in need, and to inform farmers of the tax incentives and deductions as well as the liability protections in place for use of these programs.
• We support an independent economic analysis of at least three years after enactment of the Farm Labor Fair Labor Practices Act prior to the Farm Labor Wage Board making a recommendation regarding overtime to the Department of Labor and legislature.
• We support making permanent the farm workforce retention tax credit.
• We support the work week for compliance of day of rest and overtime can be any seven consecutive days chosen by the employer.
• We support a $1 million investment in dairy environmental management systems at Cornell CALS.
• We support state funding to create new and enhance existing agriculture education programs to reach the goals established in the “Reinventing Agriculture Education for the Year 2020” report from the National Council for Agricultural Education.
• We strongly support the creation of a statewide campaign to educate the public about agricultural vehicular laws and respect for safe agricultural travel.

NYFB delegates also created a new climate policy section of policy resolutions. Additions to policy include:

• We support sequestering carbon in the soil by such practices as no-till farming and pasturing livestock as a means to combat climate change in New York.
• We support appointing farmers to the Climate Action Council and the Agriculture and Forestry Advisory Panel.
• We support landowners voluntarily adopting soil health programs and best management processes that will prevent soil erosion, prevent nutrient loss to aquatic ecosystems and increase soil health.
• We support financial incentives for farmers to implement soil health programs on their farms.

New national policy resolutions include:

• We support the immediate ratification of the new United States, Mexico, Canada Agreement (USMCA) trade deal
• We support a positive resolution for the United States with China to end the trade war.
• We support removal of Canadian provincial tariffs on U.S. produced wine, beer and distilled products.
• We support a “Emergency Tariffs Powers Act”, which gives the president the authority to declare an emergency tariff but requires the president in 150 days to seek Congressional approval.
• We support including dairy parlor and animal care employees in the H-2A program.
• Since Food Banks are not geared for highly perishable products, we support the creation of a voucher program through the Milk Donation Program to facilitate the distribution of donated milk through grocery stores and other venues.
• For animal products to receive a “Grown in the USA” label the animal(s) must have been exclusively born, raised and processed in the United States.
• We support continued use of SNAP for seasonal farm markets, farm stands, CSAs and other retail farm markets.
• More than a dozen resolutions were added as well to support a regulatory framework that will assist the growth of industrial hemp production.

At the awards banquet, more than 300 members, state officials and supporters gathered to honor a number of well deserving individuals.* New York Farm Bureau handed out its highest honor, the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award, to Gary Orbaker, a fruit farmer in Williamson, NY and member of Wayne County Farm Bureau. Orbaker has been integral to membership development of the organization and continues to serve as an active voice for farmers on many of the major agricultural issues of the day.

New York Farm Bureau also recognized the winners of the Young Farmers and Ranchers competitive events. Eileen Jensen, of Branchport, NY and a member of Yates County Farm Bureau, was honored with the Excellence in Agriculture Award. Evan and Elizabeth Schiedel, of Ripley, NY and members of Chautauqua County Farm Bureau, received the Achievement in Agriculture Award. Finally, Adam Miner, of Mannsville, NY and a Jefferson County Farm Bureau member, won the Discussion Meet competition. They will each represent New York Farm Bureau at the American Farm Bureau Federation Annual Convention next month in Austin, TX.

In addition, delegates elected district representatives to the State Board of Directors. Those elected are Richard Kimball of Dewittville, NY in District 1, Kim Skellie of Newark, NY in District 3, Dan Palladino of Jamesville, NY in District 5, Tony LaPierre of Chazy, NY in District 7, Darin Hickling of Edmeston, NY in District 9 and Robert Nolan of Patchogue, NY in District 11. Also elected to the board, Darleen Krisher-Meehan of Andover, NY as Promotion and Education Committee Chair and Christina Kohler of Elbridge, NY as the Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee Chair.

Finally, the Farm Bureau Trophy for Membership Excellence went to Jefferson County Farm Bureau.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) issues the following statement regarding Bronx Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie’s comments that “For us in the Assembly, we always believe in raising revenue.”

Press Release:

“Speaker Heastie is dead wrong – maybe his downstate allies support raising taxes but millions of residents and small businesses across our state do not. In fact, it seems like only the Speaker and his New York City colleagues are the ones intent on making New York less affordable and exiling more of our neighbors to less expensive states.

“Albany’s fiscal woes can be summed up very easily – a lack of revenue isn’t the problem, reckless spending is. I’ve said for years that the state welfare program is out of control and it is unfortunate that Assembly leadership let the program balloon, to the tune of $6 billion over budget, instead of addressing the issue years ago.

“Bottom line, Speaker Heastie, along with Gov. Cuomo and Senate Majority Leader Stewart Cousins, is directly responsible for growing our budget beyond control.

“Taxpayer money is just that – the taxpayer’s money, not a mechanism to right Albany’s runaway fiscal ship and certainly not something the Speaker should be taking lightly. Families are still struggling to pay the bills as expenses continue to rise, and I will fight to prevent any further tax increases on our residents.”

29 year old Jordan Brodie of LeRoy was apprehended by State Police based out of Batavia following a nearly three yearlong investigation into sexual offenses involving minors.
Brodie was taken into custody on Wednesday afternoon after the initial incident was reported to Police back in January of 2017.
He was charged with a two felony counts of promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child and was subsequently released with an appearance ticket for LeRoy Town Court at a later date.

Drug Task Force busts two Albion men for dealing crack and cocaine.
Following a search of an apartment on East Bank Street in Albion the Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force has arrested two suspects.
The residents, 42 year old Derrick Hildreth and 34 year old Thomas Edgtion were found in possession of a shotgun, powder and crack cocaine, pot and packing materials in the bust.
Both are facing multiple felonies for the sale and distribution of crack and powder cocaine.

Minimum wage workers will see a bump in pay with the New Year.
On December 31st the minimum hourly wage locally will jump by 70 cents up to $11.80 per hour.
The rate will jump again to $12.50 an hour at the end of next year.
It’s all part of the state law that will bring the minimum wage in New York City to $15.00 an hour.
Governor Cuomo says the higher minimum wage has not hurt the economy.

This coming Saturday marks a milestone for a popular Batavia restaurant and tavern.
The Center Street Smokehouse turns 20.
Proprietor Greg Paul said he, his brother Scott and as partner opened the restaurant on December 7th, 2000.
The Center Street building, which had once housed a newspaper, had been vacant for years.
To Mark the occasion, Paul is offering specials this Sunday, from 4 until 8pm, featuring draft beers for a dollar, a half chicken for four-dollars and hamburgers for a buck.

The Buffalo Bills will look to close in on a playoff spot, but to do it, they’ll have to beat the best team in the AFC.
Buffalo is hosting the Baltimore Ravens at New Era Field Sunday afternoon.
The Bills have won three straight and are just a game behind the New England Patriots for first place in the AFC East.
To clinch a postseason berth Sunday, the Bills need to win and have the Oakland Raiders, Houston Texans or Indianapolis Colts lose or tie their games.
Buffalo’s showdown with Baltimore is set for 1:00 p.m. Sunday.

The Buffalo Sabres rally late but fail to get their Western Canada road trip off to a winning start.
Jack Eichel, Sam Reinhart and Jake McCabe all scored for Buffalo, but it wasn’t enough as the Sabres felt to the Calgary Flames four-to-three last night.
After a strong start to the season, Buffalo now sits 15 points behind the Boston Bruins for first place in the Atlantic Division.
The Sabres will be back in action tomorrow afternoon when they take on the Vancouver Canucks.

Guillermo Torres-Acevedo faces a maximum sentenced of 20 years in prison after admitting be took a 14 year old Batavia girl across stateliness.
The 23 year old Torres-Acevedo admitted in federal court in Buffalo that he picked-up the girl last November at Byron-Bergen School.
This occurred a day after he had been arrested for raping her and triggered an Amber Alert to find the child.
He then drove the girl to Mansfield, Pennsylvania where the two said they again engaged in sexual relations. Police caught up with then by tracing Acevedo’s cell phone.
Torres-Acevedo still faces state charges of kidnapping, multiple counts rape and endangering the welfare of a child.
He is scheduled to appear this Friday in Genesee County Court.

Two Albion men facing charges of selling and distributing crack and powder cocaine.
The Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force has collared two suspects following a search of an apartment on East Bank Street in Albion.
42 year old Derrick Hildreth and 34 year old Thomas Edgtion lived there and are each charged with multiple felonies. Police seized a shotgun, cocaine, pot and packing materials.

The minimum wage is going up at the end of the month.
The minimum hourly wage locally will go from $11.10 an hour to $11.80 per hour on December 31st.
At the end of next year, the rate will go to $12.50 an hour.
It’s all part of the state law that will bring the minimum wage in New York City to $15 an hour.
Governor says the higher minimum wage has not hurt the economy.

This coming Saturday marks a milestone for a popular Batavia restaurant and tavern.
The Center Street Smokehouse turns 20.Proprietor Greg Paul said he, his brother Scott and as partner opened the restaurant on December 7th, 2-thousand.
The Center Street building, which had once housed a newspaper, had been vacant for years.
To Mark the occasion, Paul is offering specials this Sunday, from 4 until 8pm, featuring draft beers for $1, a half chicken for $4 and hamburgers for $1.

Last Saturday, Nov 30, “Stuff the Cruiser” was held at the Target Plaza, Batavia, NY with multiple police agencies participating. The community came together and brought enough unwrapped toys, new clothing and non-perishable foods to stuff about twelve full size pickup trucks.

LeRoy Police Department, joined by the New York State Police, New York State Environmental Conservation Police, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Batavia Police Department, Corfu Police Department, Genesee County Probation and Rotary International thank the Genesee County community for their amazing generosity.

Press Release:

“We have the highest taxes in the nation and now Albany insiders have stacked the deck even further against taxpayers, handing out another $100 million of your money to political candidates so they buy loads of robocalls, billboards and television commercials – an absolute disgrace.

“It’s truly cowardice of Albany leadership to kick such a controversial topic to an outside commission instead of allowing a full debate and vote where lawmakers actually had to take responsibility for creating such a wasteful and unnecessary system.

“Replacing ‘big money’ in politics with taxpayer money does not solve the problem, it only exacerbates a corrupt Albany culture.

“Furthermore, the commission has put minor parties on life support, forcing residents into two camps, Republican or Democrat, and further dividing our state. Gov. Cuomo’s personal war with the Working Families Party robs voters of choice and will certainly disenfranchise those who want a third-party candidate.

“Once again, special interests in Albany have gone too far by overhauling a system behind closed doors, out of public view. I am calling on Gov. Cuomo to bring us back to Albany for a special session before January 1 to fix these disastrous new regulations.”

Alayah Sweeney (24) scored a game-high 37 points in Genesee’s win over Bryant & Stratton Wednesday night

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY… The Genesee Community College women’s basketball team got back in the win column Wednesday night, defeating the Bryant & Stratton College Bobcats of Syracuse 74-67.
Alayah Sweeney scored a game-high 37 points and collected 17 rebounds to lead all scorers. Haley Alvord scored 16 points and collected nine rebounds and three assists. LisBeth Pineda Polanco scored six points and collected 11 rebounds.

This coming weekend, Genesee Community College will be hosting the annual Cougar Holiday Classic. The Cougars will begin the 2019 edition with a contest against the Community College of Rhode Island Knights at 1pm.

Tyler Bourne scored a game-high 28 points to lead Genesee to victory over Bryant & Stratton of Rochester

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY… The Genesee Community College men’s basketball team got back in the win column Wednesday night, defeating the Bryant & Stratton College Bobcats of Rochester 87-79.

Selassie (Tyler) Bourne scored a game-high 28 to lead all scorers. Souleymane Gueye, and Brandon Speller had 14 points each. Jalen Willis scored 10 for the Blue and Gold. Isaiah Clemons scored 11 points.

This coming weekend, Genesee Community College will be hosting the annual Cougar Holiday Classic. The Cougars will begin the 2019 edition with a contest against the Community College of Rhode Island Knights at 7pm.

Press Release:

By Tim Bojarski, for Batavia Downs

Batavia, NY — On Friday (Dec. 6) there is a carryover of $868 in the Pick-5 at Batavia Downs and a guaranteed pool of $3,000 has been announced for the Pick-5 wager that day. The pool is part of the United States Trotting Association’s (USTA) Strategic Wagering Program and as such, free program pages are available courtesy of Trackmaster on the USTA’s website or by direct download by clicking here. (http://bit.ly/2ONUS2K)

The Pick-5 wager begins in race one and runs through race five. It is a 50-cent base wager and if all five winners aren’t selected, the carryover amount will move to the Saturday (Dec. 7) program.

Post time for the first race Friday is 6 p.m.

Albany Bishop Edward Scharfenberger is taking on some new responsibilities.
He’s been named the apostolic administration for the Buffalo diocese following the resignation of Bishop Richard Malone who had faced criticism in recent months for how he handled the clergy sex abuse scandal in his diocese.
Scharfenberger will oversee the Buffalo diocese until Malone’s replacement is named which could take several months.
Scharfenberger took time to address the victims of alleged sex abuse yesterday…

The Albany diocese says Scharfenberger will spend most of his time in the Capital Region but will visit Buffalo once a week.

Batavia man looking at a possible 20 year sentence after pleading guiltry abducting a minor for sex.
23 year old Guillermo Torres-Acevedo of Batavia pleaded guilty in federal court yesterday to enticing a minor to travel to engage in criminal sexual activity.
Torres-Acevedo was arrested on a count of rape for having sexual relations with a 14 year old girl in Genesee County and admitted to picking up the girl from school and driving her to Pennsylvania for sex.
He is now facing a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine when he is sentenced in February.

State Street man jailed without bail for Burglary in Batavia.
41 year old Robert Griffin was apprehended on an arrest warrant stemming from a previous domestic incident that allegedly occurred early last month at a Manhattan Ave address in Batavia.
Griffin is charged with two counts of Criminal Contempt along with a count of Burglary and Endangering the Welfare of a Child. He was ordered to be held in the Genesee County Jail without bail and is expected to reappear in City Court this afternoon.

Alleged imprisonment lands a South Swan Street resident in lock up.City Police report the arrest of 48 year old Shane Zimblis after police were called to respond to a possible physical domestic incident at an upper South Swan Street apartment.
Zimblis was accused of violating an order of protection during the altercation and was charged with Criminal Contempt, Criminal Mischief and Unlawful Imprisonment.
He was remanded to the County Clink without bail and is scheduled to return to Batavia City Court This afternoon.

The Batavia Muckdogs broke their silence over a proposal by Major League Baseball that would eliminate the local team.
Muckdogs General Manager Brendan Kelly issued a brief statement praising a group of congressman who have organized a task force to save minor league baseball.
Baseball has proposed eliminating 42 teams – including the Muckdogs – in an effort to reduce the expense of player development in the minor league system

The Vatican announced this morning that Pope Francis had accepted the resignation of Buffalo Bishop Richard Malone.
Over the past two years, Malone ignored repeated calls from political leaders, clergymen and parishioners to step down.
Malone was sharply criticized for his handling of the child sex abuse allegations lodged against several priests in the Western New York Diocese, which includes Genesee County.
The Bishop of Albany, Edward Scharfenberger will take over as Apostolic Administrator for the Buffalo Diocese.
He said this morning his first priority will be to listen

PHOTO: Bishop Edward Scharfenberger

Pope Francis will ultimately name a new bishop of Buffalo, a process that could take several months.

The Batavia Muckdogs today break their silence over a proposal by Major League Baseball that would eliminate the local team.
Muckdogs General Manager Brendan Kelly issued a brief statement this afternoon praising a group of congressman who have organized a task force to save minor league baseball.
Baseball has proposed eliminating 42 teams – including the Muckdogs – in an effort to reduce the expense of player development in the minor league system.

Complaints from WNY Republicans over a special election date for the empty 27th Congressional District seat has drawn response from Governor Cuomo.
The governor said that he is looking to hold the special election on April 28th the same day as New York’s presidential primary.
Republicans say that date could put their candidate at a disadvantage as there would be a heavy Democratic turnout.
Cuomo says if the Republicans want a separate election for the congressional seat, they can pay for it.

Fans of the Buffalo Bills can start grabbing their wallets tomorrow to purchase playoff tickets. Even though the Bills haven’t officially clinched a postseason spot, a new NFL rule requires teams to make playoff tickets not held by season ticket holders available tomorrow. It’s important to note, there’s no guarantee the Bills will actually play at New Era Field. For wild-card and division playoff games, regular seats will cost $65 to $164 each. Tickets for the AFC Championship game will $140 to $230 each for a regular seat. If the Bills don’t make the playoffs or if there’s no chance they’ll play a home game, purchases will be refunded.

Todd Bensley, Harriette Greaser, Tom Taber, Lynne Menz and Neil Johnson

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY (12/04/2019) Albion, New York – Now in its seventh year, Genesee Community College and the Orleans Hub are proud to continue the Orleans County Heritage Heroes Awards which recognize the dedication and hard work of dedicated citizens who strive to protect and preserve local history. They are now seeking nominations for the awards. Nominations will be accepted through Friday, February 28, 2020.

“Residents of Orleans County take great pride in their heritage,” said Jim Simon, associate dean of GCC’s Orleans County Campus Centers in Medina and Albion. “For our seventh consecutive year, we want to continue to recognize the time and investment of individuals who are tireless advocates for local history.”

Nominees for Heritage Heroes Awards can be any age but posthumous nominations will not be accepted. History professionals and GCC employees are also not eligible for the award, nor are those who serve on the awards selection committees. Nominees must be Orleans County residents.

Last year’s winners included Harriette Greaser, Lynne Menz and Tom Taber. Todd Bensley received the special C.W. “Bill” Lattin Award for Excellence in Municipal History and Neil Johnson received the Bob Waters Lifetime Achievement Award. Because nominations are not retained for future consideration, residents who made previous nominations are encouraged to re-submit a nominee again for this coming year.

“Many residents from all over the county work hard on restoring historic houses and protecting other community assets, including museums, churches and other historical artifacts,” Tom Rivers, Orleans Hub editor said. “The dedicated people working to preserve these treasures deserve praise for adding to the quality of life and character of the community.”

To nominate someone for the Heritage Heroes Awards, write up a brief statement outlining the person’s contributions, projects and community affiliations. Anyone sending in a nomination should provide their name (anonymous nomination packages will not be accepted), address, phone number and email address. The more in-depth the detail provided in the nomination, the stronger the submission. Submit the nomination to:

ATTENTION: Heritage Heroes Committee

Genesee Community College / Medina Campus Center

11470 Maple Ridge RoadMedina, NY 14103-9675

Nominations may also be emailed to Jim Simon at jsimon@genesee.edu. Please write Heritage Heroes Nomination in the subject line.

A screening process involving community members and history professionals will review the nominations and recommend finalists. From those finalists, the executive committee including GCC Associate Dean Jim Simon, Associate Professor Derek Maxfield and Orleans Hub Editor Tom Rivers will choose the Heritage Heroes.

“We are very pleased to recognize those whose efforts often go unnoticed,” said Associate Professor of History, Derek Maxfield. “They make many personal sacrifices in order to preserve history for future generations.”

The Heritage Heroes will be recognized during a ceremony at Genesee Community College in Albion in April 2020.

Press Release:

On Dec. 7th, members of the Batavia Police Department, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police Troop A, and the Village of LeRoy Police Department will be participating in the fifth annual “Shop with a Cop” event at Walmart on Veterans Memorial Drive.

Grant money from Walmart, designated specifically for this event was distributed equally to the Batavia Police Department, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and New York State Police Troop A. The schools, (including school resource officers) within Genesee County assisted in choosing the children.

The City of Batavia Police Benevolent Association, Genesee County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, City of Batavia CSEA members, the City’s “Jeans for Friday” program, Department of Public Works (AFSCME) Union, H.E. Turner & Co. Inc. Funeral Home of Batavia & Bergen, Bonarigo and McCutcheon Law Office, NextEra Energy Resources, LLC and Walmart Staff raised additional funds which enabled 23 extra children to participate.

Additionally, the Village of LeRoy Police Department received a donation from the Rotary Club of LeRoy to sponsor 5 children.

A total of 57 children were invited to participate in this year’s event. Once at Walmart, the children will take photographs with Santa Claus and meet with their individual “Cop.”

Walmart graciously hosts the event, allocates employees specifically for the event, and also donates gift wrapping materials. Gift wrapping will be completed by the Young Adults Group from Batavia City Church, members of the Batavia Police Explorer’s Post and family members from Batavia Police Department and Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

The Batavia Police Department, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and the New York State Police Troop A, and Village of LeRoy Police Department would like to thank Walmart for their generosity and assistance to make this a great event. We would also like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season!