Local News

Assault and Robbery in Alabama lands three in lock up.
Two Albion women and a Batavia man have been jailed for a violent robbery that resulted in a victim being physically assaulted in Alabama.
Albion residents, 32 year old Holly Squires of West Bank Street and 22 year old Brianna Button of King Street were accused of forcibly stealing money and injuring an individual at a Church Street residence in Alabama Sunday afternoon.
30 year old Edward Loper of Pratt Road Batavia was also arrested in connection to the incident.
He was charged with second degree Robbery for allegedly stealing money while the two females physically attacked the victim and was jailed in lieu of $20,000 bail.
Both Squires and Button were charged with Robbery and Assault in the third degree and are being held in lieu of $10,000 bail in the Genesee County Jail.

Funding request for Batavia’s Development Corporation falls short, straining search for a new director.
In order to help secure a new executive director for the agency the Batavia Development Corporation has requested a five year funding commitment from city council.
Around a month ago former executive director Julie Pacatte resigned from her position at the economic development agency.
President of the BDC Pier Cipollone says potential hires will require some sort long term stability in the position which he sees as a five year funding agreement.

City Council was reluctant to make a long commitment but did agree to take up a non-binding letter of support for the BDC at council’s next business meeting.

A state lawmaker from Rotterdam is sponsoring a bill to allow doctors to prescribe marijuana in place of opioids.
WRGB reported yesterday that State Senator George Amedore is pushing the bill to try to help move New Yorkers one step farther away from opioids.
The bill to expand medical marijuana will be voted on by the Senate Health Committee today.

A grand jury has indicted a Rochester teen accused of killing his girlfriend. Earlier this month 17 year old Jermaine Brown was arrested for allegedly shooting 18 year old Ciara Grimes to death at a friend’s house. Prosecutors say he dragged her body outside and left it in the driveway. Yesterday Brown was indicted for manslaughter, possession of a weapon and criminal contempt.

A neighborhood meeting to address concerns over Batavia’s south side is being held tonight.
Council Woman Kathy Briggs and Police Chief Shawn Heubusch want to remind residents about the importance of reporting incidents and encourage them to take back their community.
The meeting will be held tonight at 6pm in the St. Anthony’s Community Center on Liberty Street.

The Batavia Development Corporation, the economic development arm of city hall, is without an executive director.
The agency is asking city council for a five year funding commitment.
BDC president Pier Cipollone any prospective exec-director will want to see long term stability in the position
City Council was reluctant to make a long commitment but did agree to take up a non-binding letter of support for the BDC at council’s next business meeting.

A second arrest has been made in a town of Alabama robbery.
30 year old Edward Loper of Pratt Road, Batavia, is suspected of taking part in the robbery with Holly Squires of Albion.
Deputies say the victim of the robbery was injured.
Both Loper and Squires were jailed in lieu of bail.

A former Stafford resident has been sentenced to five years’ probation for stealing and using a friend’s credit card.
56 year old Jonathan Seiger of Stafford was accused of withdrawing over 16-hundred dollars from an ATM using the stolen card.

A Batavia drug dealer cops a plea deal for a reduced prison sentence.
36 year old Jonathan Hoges pled guilty to a single count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.
Hoges was arrested last August for selling crack to a drug task force agent
It was Hoges second felony offense.
He’ll get up to four years in prison and two years’ probation.

56 year old Jonathan Seiger formerly of Stafford was indicted on 18 counts in February of last year for allegedly taking and using a female acquaintances’ debit card.

Seiger and his former roommate and co-defendant in the case Scott Spencer were accused of possessing and using the card at an ATM machine to withdraw over
$1,600 in August of 2016.

Seiger was sentenced in Genesee County Court yesterday to five years’ probation and ordered to pay restitution.

Blood spilt in Elba lands a Batavia man in lock up.
Reports of violence have reached into the usually peaceful Village of Elba following a stabbing on Church Street.
Deputies have arrested 42 year old Lamont Crimes of North Street in Batavia for First Degree Assault for allegedly stabbing another man with a knife on Memorial Day.
An altercation on Church Street in Elba led to the alleged stabbing according to authorities however Deputies wouldn’t say what started the fight.
Crimes was remanded to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $15,000 bail.
The south side of Batavia is still reeling from the fatal stabbing two weeks ago with a ward meeting scheduled for tomorrow night at 6 in the St. Anthony’s Community Center on Liberty Street with Ward 5 Councilwoman Kathy Briggs and city police.

City Council offers support to BDC without a funding guarantee.
Former City Councilman Pier Cipollone and current president of the Batavia Development Corporation, was seeking a five-year funding commitment for the agency from council at last night’s council meeting.
Cipollone said without long term support by council, recruiting a new executive director will prove to be difficult.
The Batavia City Council is willing to lend moral support to the economic development agency so long as it is not obligated to continue funding it for another five years.
BDC President Pier Cipollone…

The executive director’s position has been vacant since the resignation a month ago of Julie Pacatte.
Cippolone cited the agency’s track record of attracting state and federal grants, stating that for every $1 invested in the BDC the city has over $30 returned in public and private investment.

Batavia drug dealer takes plea deal for reduced prison sentence.
36 year old Jonathan Hoges appeared in Genesee County Court yesterday morning where he pled guilty to a single count of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.
Hoges was arrested last August after he was accused selling crack cocaine to a Drug Task Force Agent on two occasions.
He was previously convicted on a similar drug charge in 2015 and was deemed a second felony offender.
The plea deal resulted in a determinate four year prison sentence to be followed by two years post release supervision.

An AMBER Alert is canceled for an Upstate toddler who’s still missing.
Wayne County deputies say 14-month-old Owen Hidalgo-Calderon has been missing for two weeks.
His mother Selena Hidalgo-Calderon was found last week buried on a Sodus farm.
Deputies are searching a wooded area they think Owen’s body might be in.
They say the mother’s boyfriend admitted to burying her but said he didn’t kill her.

Violence with a knife moves into the normally quiet Village of Elba.
Deputies say a fight occurred yesterday on Church Street in Elba.
One man was stabbed by another.
Arrested for First Degree Assault was 42 year old Lamont Crimes of North Street in Batavia.
Crimes is in the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $15,000 abil.
Deputies did not say what the fight was about.
The south side of Batavia is still simmering from stabbing two weeks ago that killed one man and left another with a gunshot wound to the leg.

An Albion woman is jailed for assault and robbery.
32 year old Holly Squires is accused of forcibly taking money from another person and causing injury. She has been jailed in lieu of $5,000 bail.
The suspected robbery occurred Sunday in the Town of Alabama.

A Pavilion man has been arrested for allegedly vandalizing a sports car in the parking lot of a Stafford restaurant.
52 year old Michael Joanette has been charged by State Police with a felony count of Criminal Mischief.
Troopers say Joanette smashed the windshield of a white corvette parked in the Red Osier lot.
He’s being held in lieu of $20,000 bail.

A State Street woman held without bail for allegedly stealing rent money she was supposed to pay.
30 year old Jessica Deridder is charged with Grand Larceny for taking rent money from a neighbor and failing to pay the landlord.

State Police in Batavia arrested 23 year old Alexander Koch of Buffalo for DWI and failure to stop or yield at an intersection after he reportedly made a left turn from Snipery Road onto Route 33 in Pembroke.

Koch allegedly failed to yield and pulled out in front of a patrol car causing the Trooper to make evasive maneuvers to avoid a collision shortly after midnight on Sunday.

Koch was taken into custody after failing several field sobriety tests and was released with appearance tickets returnable to the town of Pembroke Court for June.

21 year old Nathan Arieno was taken into custody following report of an aggressive male at a business in Perry.

Arieno was allegedly found to be in possession of drugs and drug packaging materials and was charged with Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance and Criminal use of Drug Paraphernalia.

He was remanded to the Wyoming County Jail in lieu of $2,500 bail and is slated to appear in Perry Village Court on June 19th.

30 year old Jessica Deridder was arrested and charged with Grand Larceny for an alleged incident in April where she is accused of stealing another State Street tenant’s rent money when she was expected to pay it to the landlord.

Deridder was jailed without bail and is expected back in Batavia City Court this afternoon.

42 year old Lamont Crimes of North Street Batavia was arrested and charged with a felony count of first degree Assault following an altercation on Church Street in Elba.

Crimes was accused of stabbing another person with a knife yesterday afternoon.

He was arraigned in Elba Town Court and committed to the Genesee County Jail in Lieu of $15,000 bail.

Crimes is expected to reappear in Elba Town Court on May 31st.

Press Release:

On Monday, June 4th from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., the Batavia Muckdogs will be hosting a job fair at Dwyer Stadium. Those that are looking to work in concessions, maintenance/janitors, grounds crew, box office/ticket takers, press box, promotions, in-game entertainment, the mascot, or bat boys for the duration of the 2018 season can arrive at the visitor’s clubhouse at 4 p.m. for check-in. Attendees are encouraged to dress business casual. The Muckdogs look to fill the positions right away, with the necessary training beginning the weekend of June 15th.

Forcible Robbery and Assault in Alabama lands an Albion woman in lock up.
32 year old Holly Squires of West Bank Street Albion was accused of forcibly stealing money and injuring someone during an attempted robbery.
She was arrested following the reported incident Sunday evening on Church Street in Alabama.
Apparently Squires didn’t act alone in the incident, and was aided by another unnamed individual.
She now faces charges of Robbery and Assault with intent to cause physical injury.
Squires was remanded in lieu of $5,000 bail to the Genesee County Jail.
She is expected to appear in Alabama Town Court on June 7th.

Search for a missing 14 month old continues today in Wayne County.
Law men located the body of 18 year old Selena Hidalgo-Calderon on a farm in Sodus last week after family members reported their concerns over Selena and her young sons’ whereabouts.
Selena’s fourteen-month-old child Owen Hidalgo-Calderon was never located following an amber alert issued last week and law enforcement believes the search will end in a recovery rather than a rescue.
Hidalgo-Calderon’s boyfriend Alberto Reyes has been arrested and apparently admitted to police to burying the 18 year old woman in a bag in the woods.
Over 170 people helped search the farm yesterday for any trace of little Owen.
The Wayne County Sheriff says they are committed to find him even though they don’t expect to find him alive.

Man arrested for vandalism at the Red Osier Restaurant.
Troopers out of Batavia arrested 52 year old Michael Joanette of Pavilion on a felony count of Criminal Mischief for allegedly smashing out the windshield of a car sitting in the parking lot of the Red Osier in Stafford.
Police released security photos from the incident that were posted by our news partner The Batavian.
Troopers say they received numerous tips identifying Joanette.
He was remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $20,000 bail pending an appearance in Stafford Court.

Genesee County Deputies have arrested 15 youngsters during the Darien Lake concert this past weekend.
The highly anticipated Post Malone show kicked off Saturday at the Performing Arts Center however law enforcement wasn’t there to enjoy the music.
Officers arrested 15 people ranging in age from 17 to 23.
They face various charges ranging from trespassing to disorderly conduct, one for having fake IDs and another for having brass knuckles.

Batavia man arrested for obstruction of breathing in Bethany.
54 year old James Young of Thomas Ave was arrested and charged with Criminal Obstruction of Breathing and Unauthorized use of a Motor Vehicle following investigation into a reported incident on Bethany Center Road Friday.
Young was allegedly using a female’s vehicle without her consent and after the woman confronted him about returning the vehicle he became physically violent obstructing her breathing.
Young was released under Genesee Justice Supervision.

Buffalo is hosting the NHL combine again.
This week promising young NHL hopefuls will be evaluated at the KeyBank Center and Harbor Center ahead of the draft.
This is the fourth consecutive year Buffalo has hosted hockey prospects ahead of the draft but this year the Sabres get first pick.
The physical tests will begin on Friday. Buffalo will host the event next year for the fifth year in a row.

Woodrow Horseman

More trouble on Batavia’s south side.
Three men have been arrested following a fracas on Central Ave. late Wednesday night.
42 year old Woodrow Horseman, who lists no permanent address, was charged with Attempted Assault and resisting arrest.
Horseman was ordered held without bail.
Two other men were arrested for disorderly conduct.

Authorities in Wayne County are continuing their search for a missing toddler today.
The 14-month-old child’s mother, 18 year old Selena Hidalgo-Calderon, was found dead on a farm in Sodus last week. Her boyfriend is behind bars charged with tampering with evidence.
An AMBER Alert was issued Friday for little Owen but deputies say they don’t expect to find the boy alive.

Today is Memorial Day, a federal holiday set aside to remember the
Nation’s war dead.
Ceremonies have been scheduled throughout Genesee County during the morning hours.
To view a list of ceremonies, click HERE

Batavia City Council is meeting tomorrow night.
On the agenda is a five year funding plan for the Batavia Development Corporation, which has been without a paid executive director for the past month.
Council is also expected to receive a report on repairing the pillars at the entrance to Redfield Parkway.
The early estimate places the cost of the job at between $57,000 and $67,000.

The search will continue today in Wayne County for a missing one year old boy whose mother was found dead last week.
Authorities say if their search for little Owen Hidalgo-Calderon comes up empty today, the formal search may be called off.
The body of the boy’s mother, 18 year old Selena Hidalgo-Calderon, was found last Wednesday near a farm in Sodus.
Her boyfriend, Alberto Reyes, is being held on a charge of tampering with evidence for allegedly moving the body.
Authorities has also revealed that Reyes, who is not Owen’s biological father, was in this country illegally and had been deported twice before.

A well-known local funeral director has died.
70 year old Ronald Konieczny passed away Friday at Roswell Park Cancer Institute.
Mr. Konieczny operated the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home on Bogue Avenue for many years.
It is now operated by his son.
Calling hours for Ronald Konieczny will be held Tuesday at the funeral home’s Batavia location and on Wednesday at the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home in Akron.

Tough local talent to take center stage at Throwdown at the Downs.
Mixed Martial Artists from around the area will be matching up for a number of bouts out on the center track Saturday, June 23rd.
Local fighters on the card for that night include Matt Norstrand, Le Roy, Quentin Marozzi, Caledonia, Tim Shelby Le Roy, Brandon Sarkis, Pavilion, Kenny Hale, Jake Hixenbaugh, and Grady Wall, all from Bergen, and Steven Kleckler, Batavia.
Throwdown at the Downs is scheduled for Saturday, June 23rd at 6pm and Tickets are on sale now at bataviaconcerts.com

On Monday, June 4th, from 4 to 6 p.m., the Batavia Muckdogs will be hosting a job fair at Dwyer Stadium.
Those who are looking to work in concessions, maintenance/janitors, grounds crew, box office/ticket takers, press box, promotions, in-game entertainment, the mascot, or bat boys for the duration of the 2018 season can arrive at the visitor’s clubhouse at 4 p.m. for check-in.
Attendees are encouraged to dress business casual. The Muckdogs look to fill the positions right away, with the necessary training beginning the weekend of June 15th.

Search in Sodus to resume this morning for a missing one-year old boy.
The search for a missing 14 month old boy from Sodus resumes this morning with investigators focusing on a 350 acre Joy Road Farm.
An Amber Alert was issued throughout Western New York yesterday for 14 month old Owen Hidalgo-Calderon whose mother was found dead earlier this week.
The body of 18 year old Selena, Hidalgo-Calderon was located Wednesday in some woods behind the farm in Sodus and Wayne County Sheriff Barry Virts believes the boy’s body will be recovered there as well.
State Police have arrested the woman’s boyfriend, Alberto Reyes, on a charge of tampering with evidence after he apparently admitted to moving the body and burying it.
Reyes refused to talk about the whereabouts of the child.
Sheriff Virts said following yesterday’s search there is no evidence that the boy was abducted and his experience in law enforcement leads him to believe the search will end in a body recovery.

Bad blood on Batavia’s south side has spurred a city councilwoman to call for a neighborhood meeting.
5th Ward Councilwoman Kathy Briggs…

The meeting is in response to last week’s fatal stabbing and shooting on Central Ave and will be held this coming Thursday night at 6 in the St. Anthony’s Community Center on Liberty Street.
Police Chief Shawn Heubusch will be in attendance with other fellow officers to remind residents about the importance of reporting incidents in order to back their community.

Tough local talent to take center stage at Throwdown at the Downs.
Mixed Martial Artists from around the area will be matching up for a number of bouts out on the center track Saturday, June 23rd.
Henry Wojtaszek, CEO/president at Batavia Downs held by a press conference in the lobby of Batavia Downs yesterday where Richard Mitchell, owner of Ground Force Fights ran down the list of local fighters.

Throwdown at the Downs is scheduled for Saturday, June 23rd at 6pm and Tickets are on sale now at bataviaconcerts.com
For more on the press conference check the article by our news partner The Batavian.

An assault in Pavilion pub leads to the arrest of a LeRoy Man.
36 year old David Howard of Wolcott Street LeRoy is accused of pushing another patron of the Clover Leaf pub on Telephone Road in Pavilion to the ground causing a head injury.
Howard was charged with Assault and issued a court appearance ticket.

An Amber Alert has been issued in Genesee County and throughout Western New York for a missing one-year old child whose mother was found dead earlier this week.
The child is identified as 14 month old Owen Hidalgo-Calderon.
The body of the child’s mother, 18 year old Selena, Hidalgo-Calderon, located Wednesday in some woods behind a farm on Joy Road in Sodus.
State Police have arrested the woman’s boyfriend, Alberto Reyes, on a charge of tampering with evidence for allegedly moving the body and burying it.
Reyes has not commented on the whereabouts of the child.
Troopers say given the circumstances the child is in imminent danger of serious physical harm or death.

Councilwoman Kathy Briggs

Simmering tension on Batavia’s south side has prompted police and a city councilwoman to call for a neighborhood meeting.
5th Ward Councilwoman Kathy Briggs:

The meeting will be held this coming Thursday night at 6 in the St. Anthony’s Community Center on Liberty Street.
Briggs and Police Chief Shawn Heubusch want to remind residents about the importance of reporting incidents as they see them as a means of taking back their community.
All of this is in response to last week’s fatal stabbing and shooting on Central Ave.

An assault in Pavilion pub leads to the arrest of a LeRoy Man.
36 year old David Howard of Wolcott Street LeRoy is accused of getting into a fracas with another man at the Clover Leaf pub on Telephone Road in Pavilion.
Howard was charged with Assault and issued a court appearance ticket.

Local Lawmen will be increasing enforcement on impaired drivers beginning today.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Batavia and LeRoy Police Departments will begin enforcement in the statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown effort today and will end on Tuesday May 29th.
Governor Cuomo is also suspending road and bridge construction projects on New York highways throughout the Memorial Day weekend to help ease congestion on one of the busiest travel holidays of the year.

Press Release:

A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)

Click Here to watch a special Memorial Day message from Assemblyman Steve Hawley

“This Monday is dedicated to the countless men and women who have given their lives to protect our freedom and way of life. The American dream is uniquely cherished and we owe our gratitude to the veterans who courageously defended it throughout our nation’s history.

“As a veteran, son of a World War Two veteran and member of the Assembly’s Veterans Affairs Committee for many years, our servicemen and servicewomen have always held a special place in my heart and are an inspiration for me to keep fighting in Albany.

“As you are enjoying this special day with family and friends, I ask that you take a moment to reflect on those who have given their lives so future generations can live free and thank a veteran in your life for their service. Lastly, always remember to be safe and responsible when driving but, most importantly, have a happy Memorial Day!”

…This is an ACTUAL AMBER ALERT…

Issued By: New York State Police
Affected Jurisdictions: Allegany, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Cortland, Genesee, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Orleans, Oswego, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne, Wyoming, Yates Counties

Headline: AMBER Alert: SODUS NEW YORK CHILD:1yrs 2mo Hispanic male 2′ 30lbs Hr:brown Eye:brown CALL(866)NYS-AMBER

NEW YORK STATE AMBER ALERT
Activation Date and Time: Friday, May 25, 2018 – 9:57 AM

The WAYNE COUNTY SHERIFFS DEPARTMENT has activated the New York State AMBER Alert and is investigating a child abduction that occurred on JOY ROAD , in SODUS NEW YORK at about 9:48 AM on 5/16/2018.

The CHILD, OWEN HIDALGO-CALDERON is a Hispanic male, approximately 1 year 2 months old with short, brown hair and brown eyes. He is approximately 2 feet and weighs about 30 pounds. OWEN is known to need ASTHMA MEDICATION and was last seen wearing UNKNOWN.

THE CHILD WAS TAKEN UNDER CIRCUMSTANCES THAT LEAD POLICE TO BELIEVE THAT THEY ARE IN IMMINENT DANGER OF SERIOUS PHYSICAL HARM AND OR DEATH Anyone with any information on this abduction is asked to call the WAYNE COUNTY SHERIFFS DEPARTMENT at (866)N Y S-AMBER or dial 911 to provide information on a report or sighting.

Visit http://amber.ny.gov for the most up to date information concerning this alert.

Press Release:

Ignite Buffalo is providing local small businesses a new opportunity for growth through a grant program that will award up to $100,000 to Western New York businesses.

Ignite Buffalo is a business grant and mentorship program that promotes sustainable growth, job creation, and ongoing education to local small business owners. Ignite Buffalo is presented by 43 North in partnership with national and local partners including Facebook, M&T Bank, Quickbooks, AWS, WordPress.com and Woo Commerce.

Finalists selected will be in the running to receive one of 27 grants awarded ranging from $25,000-$100,000 and free access to a curated mentorship program. Within this program, business owners will gain access to industry experts offering ongoing educational programming, access to resources and curated workshops.

All applicants need to do is tell their business story. Applications can be made online at www.ignitebuffalo.org and must be submitted by June 13 at 12 noon EDT.

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce and 43 North will be hosting an informational meeting regarding the Ignite Buffalo grants on May 31 from 4-6 p.m. in the city council chambers at the Batavia City Centre, 105 Main St., Batavia. Food and refreshments will be served. The meeting is free and open to the public. You can register for the meeting on the Chamber’s website at www.geneseeny.com.

City Councilwoman calls for response to violence brewing in Batavia.
Batavia’s Ward 5 Councilwoman Kathy Briggs says her constituents have been continually calling her reporting of violence and suspicious drug activity in the City’s south side.
She has been in contact with police and following last week’s fatal stabbing on Central Ave, Briggs decided to organize a ward meeting with law enforcement to address the growing concern.
Police Chef Shawn Heubusch was apparently eager to hold a meeting himself and hopes to empower south side city residents to take back their community…

According to Police the tensions have been high in the Central Avenue neighborhood for a while with bad blood between two apparent groups.
Councilwoman Briggs and Batavia Police will hold a meeting next Thursday night at St. Anthony’s Community center on Liberty Street.
This week three people were indicted by a Grand Jury in connection with last week’s fatal stabbing and shooting.

LeRoy Man arrested for Assault in Pavilion.
Deputies arrested 36 year old David Howard of Wolcott Street LeRoy following investigation into an alleged assault at the Clover Leaf pub on Telephone Road in Pavilion.
Howard was accused of shoving another patron to the ground causing a head and elbow injury.
Wolcott was charged with Assault and issued an appearance ticket for June 5th in Pavilion Town Court.

Deputies make drugged driving arrest after crash in Elba.
23 year old James Edwards of Upper Holley Road Holley was arrested following a single car crash on Lockport Road in Elba Wednesday Afternoon.
The crash occurred after Edwards apparently lost control of his vehicle driving off of the roadway into a ditch.
Edwards had three other passengers one of which sustained a minor injury.
He was charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle impaired by Drugs, Unlawful Pot Possession and vehicle and traffic infractions.
He was released with an appearance ticket for August 8th in Elba Town Court.

Increasing enforcement on impaired drivers begins today.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Batavia and LeRoy Police Departments will begin enforcement in the statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown effort today and will end on Tuesday May 29th.
Governor Cuomo is also suspending road and bridge construction projects on New York highways throughout the Memorial Day weekend to help ease congestion on one of the busiest travel holidays of the year.

For the first time, both major parties nominated African-American candidates to run for attorney general of New York.
Yesterday in New York City, Republicans nominated Manhattan attorney and Buffalo native Keith Wofford.
On Long Island, Democrats nominated New York City lawyer Letitia James.
They’re going to face off in November to try to replace Eric Schneiderman after he resigned amid abuse allegations by several women.

City Hall is responding to the simmering violence on Batavia’s south side.
Police say trouble in the Central Avenue neighborhood had been brewing for some time.
Now, a community meeting has been scheduled in the 5th ward.

Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch

Police Chef Shawn Heubusch says the meeting will be held next Thursday night at St. Anthony’s Community center

Councilwoman Kathy Briggs

Ward 5 Councilwoman Kathy Briggs organized the meeting.

A Grand Jury on Wednesday indicted three people in connection with last week’s fatal stabbing and shooting.

A Batavia man admits to arson and drug sales in plea agreement.
47 year old Eddie Lee Miles was arrested last January when he used a a piece of furniture to barricade himself in an apartment on Washington Ave., then set it on fire, and threatened to shoot police.
Miles pled guilty to felony counts of Arson, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance.
He will remain in custody pending his first sentencing date scheduled for June 22nd.

State Democratic and Republican conventions continue today in New York.
Former Vice President Joe Biden is set to endorse Governor Andrew Cuomo at the Democratic convention underway at Hofstra University on Long Island.
Cuomo got 95 percent of the votes from Democratic delegates, securing a spot on the primary ballot.
Republicans gave the nod to Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro.

No one is injured after a Boston-bound flight had to make a sudden landing.
Officials say a JetBlue plane hit a bird early this morning in Buffalo, about ten minutes after takeoff.
The pilot circled the plane back safely to the airport and the passengers were shuffled onto a new flight.
The plane is undergoing maintenance.

News Release:

The Spring of 2018 Instructors and Students of the Semester for both the Albion and Medina Campus Centers of Genesee Community College have been named! Nominations from fellow teachers, students and colleagues were collected at each campus center during the semester. The selection committee, led by Associate Dean of Orleans County Campus Centers James Simon reviewed each nomination and selected the winning instructors and students.

ALBION CAMPUS CENTER

Peggy Feary-Pray has been selected as the Spring 2018 Instructor of the Semester at GCC’s Albion Campus Center. In a nomination, one of her students expressed appreciation that Ms. Feary-Pray took an interest in her and gave her opportunities to grow within her field of study stating, “She develops and creates hands-on activities that generate group discussions and realistic role-plays.”

In the course of her career she has been a clinical therapist, foster care caseworker and rape crisis coordinator. Reflecting on her varied career path, Peggy said, “I would change nothing…I am always amazed by the twists my career has taken.” Her sage advice for new instructors: “Be prepared with more than you need for class, and make your students use their brains. You might be surprised by what they say.” She added, “Rise to the challenge, you might surprise yourself!”

Peggy shared that her most rewarding experience has been seeing her students’ ability to write a great paragraph response at the end of the semester!

Peggy graduated from Alexander Central School and continued her education at SUNY College at Brockport and University at Albany. She holds Bachelor of Social Work and Master of Social Welfare degrees. She is teaching classes in Human Relations and Human Services in GCC’s Albion Campus Center this semester. She lives in Corfu with her husband, three children, dog and two cats. When she isn’t in the classroom, Peggy enjoys camping and playing her flute. She is active in her community, serving on the Missions and Ministry Committee at Alexander UMC.

Summer Moore was named Spring 2018 Student of the Semester at the Albion Campus Center. An Albion native, Summer attends classes at GCC part time in pursuit of her Criminal Justice AAS degree with a concentration in Corrections Counseling.

Summer says that what she loves most about college is meeting new people and learning new things. She believes that one of her strengths as a student is her dedication to working hard and making herself accountable for her own efforts. Agreeing, her instructor said “Summer has clearly worked hard, and as a result, her writing has consistently improved throughout the semester.”

Summer offered some words of wisdom to new college students, “things may seem scary and overwhelming at first, but it gets better as long as you try!” She cites her parents as the major influences in her life, saying that they’ve always pushed her to try her hardest, and they never gave up on her.

Upon graduation from GCC, Summer plans to look for a good job that will allow her to live near a beach in Virginia. When she isn’t studying, Summer enjoys drawing, listening to music and walking nature trails. Summer resides in Albion.

MEDINA CAMPUS CENTER

The selection committee has named Amy Crockford as the Spring 2018 Instructor of the Semester at the Medina Campus Center. Amy joined Genesee Community College as an adjunct instructor of American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf Culture in 2017. In addition to Medina, she currently teaches at GCC’s Batavia campus, The SUNY College at Brockport, Buffalo State College and Erie Community College.

Amy has her BS degree in Communications from Rochester Institute of Technology and her MS degree in Student Affairs Administration from the University at Buffalo.

Students who nominated Amy this semester collectively shared that she makes learning ASL enjoyable and relatable. One student stated that if it were not for Amy’s class, the student would have dropped out of school. Amy smiles and blushes as she recalls her most rewarding teaching experience – receiving a nomination for the Presidential Academic Excellence in Teaching Award. She added that GCC’s Medina Campus Center staff have been wonderful assets to her and the College by encouraging students.

When asked for one piece of advice to a new instructor, Amy said, “Be patient with your students and it will be reflected in their work, class participation and eagerness to learn.”

Married and raising two sons, Amy finds time to be an active Scout mom in Akron Cub Scouts Pack 531 and Boy Scout Troop 559. She also belongs to Deaf Access Services, The American Sign Language Teacher’s Association and the American Sign Language National Honor Society. The Crockford family resides in Lockport.

Dustin Wells has been named the Spring 2018 Student of the Semester at the Medina Campus Center. Dustin will earn his Liberal Arts & Science: General Studies AS degree and graduate from GCC in the Fall of 2018. He plans to transfer to a four-year institution to play collegiate baseball and to pursue a degree in architecture.

One of the nominations stated that “Dustin regularly demonstrates not only effort, but also insight and excellence. Dustin stands out. Many people are happy with doing what is required, but few challenge themselves to be the best that they can personally be, as he does.”

Dustin was quick to cite his mother and father as the major influences in his life and education. He said his mother always strives for success in college and life and his father works hard and stays focused – no matter what. Dustin wanted new students to know that, “College is much easier if you don’t procrastinate and actually study.” Dustin resides in Medina.

Councilwoman Kathy Briggs will be holding a 5th Ward meeting on Thursday, May 31st.

The meeting will be regarding the recent rash of violent events in the 5th ward area of Central Avenue and Jackson Street.

Ward 5 Councilwoman Kathy Briggs…

Briggs said she has encouraged her constituents to report disturbances to police and has reported a number of suspicious incidents herself, however after last week’s fatal stabbing she decided a community meeting was in order.

She contacted Police Chief Shawn Heubusch who was apparently thinking the same thing and agreed to attend the meeting.

Briggs believes that the community members need to be informed about reporting incidents and to encourage them to take back their community

The meeting is scheduled for Thursday May 31st at 6PM at the St. Anthony’s Community Center conference room on Liberty Street.

Press Release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today voted for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for FY19. This legislation is consistent with President Trump’s commitment to rebuild and reform our nation’s military.

“The men and women of the United States military and their families make honorable sacrifices for our nation and we must make sure they are supported,” said Collins. “Whether it is the need for appropriate equipment on the battlefield or a bigger paycheck to take care of ever increasing living expenses, I’m proud to support this year’s NDAA because our brave service members deserve more.”

The FY19 NDAA gives troops a pay raise of 2.6%, the largest in nine years. Additionally the legislation expands recruiting efforts and authorizes increases in the size of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Naval and Air Reserve, and Air Guard to address the increasing threats facing the United States.

The FY19 NDAA also includes funding for advanced education, experience, and training to help the military compete with the private sector in recruiting talent with specialized skills.

Collins added: “In a world of increasing threats and serious neglect in recent years, we have to continue to modernize the military and make critical investments for our nation’s defense. This important legislation passed today will lay the groundwork for the United States to continue to build and maintain the most powerful military on the planet.”

Press Release:

Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel has announced that Ground Force Fight’s “Throwdown at the Downs” event will take place on Saturday, June 23rd. A press conference in the Batavia Downs Lobby with local fighters from the event will start at 12 noon on Friday, May 25th.

“We are excited to host our first MMA event on the track,” said Henry Wojtaszek, CEO/President at Batavia Downs Gaming. “Ground Force Fights has a history of putting on exciting shows and we’re pleased to be providing a new space in which they can entertain the passionate MMA fans of Western New York.”

Bouts include Tom Shelby of Leroy vs Yuri Panferov of North Haven CT for Cruiser heavyweight Title, Grady Wall of Bergen vs Xi Lau of Toronto for the flyweight title & Quentin Marozzi of Caledonia vs Teshay Gouthro of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada for the bantamweight title.

“Partnering with Batavia Downs is something we’ve talked about for a long time,’ said Richard Mitchell, Owner of Ground Force Fights. “We’re looking forward to putting on our first outdoor show and invite the public to come root on the many local fighters who will be taking part in the event.”

Tickets are on sale now at bataviaconcerts.com. Doors open at 4:30pm, Event starts at 6pm. Tickets are $35 for General Admission and $55 for VIP seats closer to the cage. Lawn chairs (which are normally permitted for other Batavia Downs events) are NOT permitted for this event. There will be limited chairs and bleacher seating available. Each concert ticket is also redeemable once at Player’s Club in the three days following the event for $15 Free Play to be used on one of Batavia Downs Gaming’s 800+ gaming machines.

Three indicted for fatal stabbing and shooting on Central Ave.
Three suspects have been served felony indictments by the Genesee County Grand Jury following the rash of deadly violence on the city’s south side last week.
30 year old Nathaniel Wilson is facing a Class A-1 felony of Murder for stabbing 41 year old Terry Toote to death.
Wilson was allegedly shot in the leg by 17 year old Samuel Blackshear who was indicted for Attempted Assault and Criminal Possession of a Weapon.
48 year old Jennifer Urvizu–Hanlon who allegedly gave Blackshear the gun is also charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon.
District Attorney Lawrence Friedman says the tensions in the neighborhood were just waiting to boil over…

All three are being held without bail pending their next court appearance on June 4th.
According to reports from our news partner at The Batavian the violent disturbances that have plagued the Central Ave area continued yesterday.
There were at least three calls to the Jackson, Central Ave area yesterday with multiple altercations and possibly more people in custody according to reports.

Batavia man takes plea deal in police standoff and arson incident.
47 year old Eddie Lee Miles also known as “Pops” appeared in Genesee County Court yesterday afternoon where he pleaded guilty to three felonies.
Miles was arrested in August for criminal obstruction of breathing and torturing or injuring an animal after he allegedly injected his dog with an unknown purple liquid.
He was also arrested on a warrant for allegedly selling crack cocaine to Drug Task Force agent.
Miles most recent arrest came in January when he used a couch to barricade himself in an apartment on Washington Ave., then set it on fire and began threatening to shoot police.
In satisfaction of three Grand Jury indictments Miles pled guilty to felony counts of Arson, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with intent to sell and Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle.
Miles will remain in custody pending his first sentencing date scheduled for June 22nd.

Today is day two of the New York State Democratic and Republican conventions.
Yesterday on Long Island, Governor Cuomo got 95-percent of delegate votes over his challenger, actress Cynthia Nixon.
She will still be on the primary ballot if she collects enough voter signatures.
In New York City, Republicans gave the nod to Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro.
Both parties will also nominate a candidate for attorney general following Eric Schneiderman’s recent resignation.

Former Bills guard Ritchie Incognito is being held in Florida on a mental exam.
It was reported yesterday that police were called about Incognito in an upscale gym after a man said he threw a dumbbell at him.
The man said the attack was unprovoked and Incognito was going on about the government and yelling for him to “get off his playground.”
He wasn’t arrested but was put under an involuntary psychiatric hold.

Nathaniel D. Wilson Jr.

Samuel Blackshear

Jennifer Urvizu-Hanlon

The Genesee County Grand Jury has handed up felony indictments against the three suspected actors in last week’s deadly violence on the south side.
30 year old Nathaniel Wilson has been indicted for the murder of 41 year old Terry Toote.
17 year old Samuel Blackshear is accused of attempted assault for allegedly shooting Wilson in the leg,
And 48 year old Jennifer Urvizu -Hanlon is facing a weapons charge for allegedly giving Blackshear the gun.

District Attorney Lawrence Friedman said this afternoon trouble had been simmering in the neighborhood

All three are being held in the county jail without bail.
Their arraignment on the indictments will be held June 4th.

Police are looking for a suspect who caused some mayhem at the Red Osier Restaurant in Stafford.
Surveillance video caught a guy, possibly armed, banging on doors and windows Monday afternoon.
The same guy is believed to have smashed the window of a little white corvette.
We have pictures of the suspect HERE along with how you can report information to the police.

Six Flags is going to operate the Darien Lake theme park resort.
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation has announced it has an agreement to acquire the lease rights to Darien Lake.
It owned and operated the theme park from 1999 to 2007. The agreement is expected to close in June.

Going to the hospital can be a scary experience for anyone, but especially so for children.
That’s way a large group of preschoolers up to first graders were treated to the annual Teddy Bear and Doll Clinic hosted by UMMC.
Healthy Living Coordinator Rachel Cosimeno says the event is intended to take some of the fear out of hospitals.
Over 200 children took part and visited displays simulating the various departments in the hospital.

Press Release:

As you are getting ready for the summer, get ready for your future! The first summer session of onsite and online courses at Genesee Community College begins next Tuesday, May 29, 2018 and there are more than 60 courses offered.

Among the full summer, 12-week course options are: Female Role in Film (CIN242); Intro to Meteorology (MET101), Beginning Personal Fitness (PED259); Intro to Digital Photography (PHO118); Social Problems (SOC102) or Human Diversity (SOC204), and many others. Both online and onsite courses still have seats available! To explore all the options go to: https://www.genesee.edu/courses/schedule/.

In addition to many course options, full-year Pell Grant funding from the federal government is available to eligible full-time students who are taking at least six credits hours over the summer semester. This is a great opportunity for students who want to maximize their academic schedule, retake a course for a better grade, or get ahead and potentially graduate early.

Lastly, high school seniors, juniors, or adults and GED earners who are brand new to college and residents of Genesee, Livingston, Orleans or Wyoming counties, should explore the Genesee Promise Plus program. GPP offers a scholarship covering the cost of tuition for up to two summer courses at GCC for high school seniors, and one course for high school juniors (rising seniors) or adults. For all the details go to: https://www.genesee.edu/home/academics/genesee-promise-plus/

To apply to GCC or to register for a summer session class, please visit https://www.genesee.edu/courses/schedule/ or contact one of GCC’s dedicated student success coaches at ssc@genesee.edu or call (585) 345-6805 today!

Press Release:

Cattle Handling Systems: Importance for BQA
Thursday, June 14th, 6:30-8:30 PM
Wilmar Farm, Bill & Marie Kuipers
3532 Mote Rd. Gainesville, NY 14066

Cattle Handling Facilities Workshop Scheduled

Providing handling facilities that allow safe, humane, and efficient movement and/or restraint of cattle is part of the Code of Cattle Care for Beef Quality Assurance. Facilities provide for disease prevention practices to protect herd health, including access to veterinary medical care. This workshop will cover some key concepts for animal health and handling and provide an opportunity to hear and share personal experiences.

Nancy Glazier, Small Farms Specialist, NWNY Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Team & Lynn A. Bliven, Issue Leader Cornell Cooperative Extension Allegany County have organized a workshop June 14 from 6:30-8:30 pm at Wilmar Farm, the home of Bill & Marie Kuipers, 3532 Mote Rd. Gainesville, NY 14066.

Bill and Marie will lead a tour of facilities and provide an overview of farm. Jerry Bertoldo, DVM, Dairy Specialist, NWNY Team will cover the vet’s perspective chute side and provide a brief overview of the NYSCHAP program.

This is a BQA recertification workshop. If you are Level 2 BQA Certified you will need to provide an updated Veterinarian Client/Patient Relationship (VCPR) form, if needed please request a form when you pre-register.

This will also serve as chute side training for those that have taken online BQA course. Haven’t completed that yet? It can be found at www.bqa.org. You MUST pre-register so we know how many animals we will need. If you are seeking BQA Level 2 you will need to provide a Veterinarian Client/Patient Relationship (VCPR) form.

Fee is $10/person or $15/farm at the door to cover handouts for the program. For more information or to RSVP please contact Lynn Bliven lao3@cornell.edu or by phone: 585-268-7644 ext. 18 or Nancy Glazier nig3@cornell.edu or 585-315-7746.

News Release:

On 5/24/2018, during the hours of 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM, Castilone Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep will host a Chrysler Cars 4 Classrooms fundraiser for Alexander Elementary students.

During the Chrysler Cars 4 Classrooms event, parents and friends of the school, will have the opportunity to earn a $10 contribution, up to $2,000, for Alexander Elementary students, by taking a brief test drive in the all-new Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid – the only hybrid minivan available on the market. Any licensed driver, age 18 or older, may drive and earn $10 on the school’s behalf. Castilone Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep will provide vehicles and staff to assist drivers with fundraising test drives and any questions they may have.

The Chrysler brand will also offer Alexander Elementary a chance to earn an additional $1,000 and be entered into a grand prize sweepstakes for up to $7,000 in additional funding, by simply sharing photos from the event on a public Facebook account within one week of the fundraiser’s date, and incorporating the provided customized hashtag #AlexPacificaContest for Alexander Elementary and tagging @Chrysler. The contest ends 5/31/2018.

“For 25 years, The Chrysler brand has been helping to raise money for elementary schools like Alexander Elementary,” said Northeast Business Center Regional Director, Jeff Strickland. “The Chrysler Cars 4 Classrooms event will offer Alexander parents and families a chance to experience the capabilities of the all-new Chrysler Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid minivan, conveniently while attending an event in support of a cause that is personal to them.”

Additionally, all test drive participants will be entered into the 2018 FCA US National Sweepstakes at registration, for a chance to win $45,000 towards an eligible vehicle from any one of the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram Truck and FIAT brands.

In 2017, the Chrysler brand celebrated 25 years of commitment to its local schools and families. Since 1993, the brand helped to raise over 7 million dollars through fundraising test drives. For more information, visit www.cars4classrooms.com.

State Police in Warsaw have arrested seven Inmates for recent criminal activity occurring within local correctional facilities.

All seven inmates were charged with Promoting Prison Contraband for allegedly being in possession of either drugs or weapons while incarcerated in either the Attica or Wyoming Correctional Facility.

Officers discovered edged ceramic and metal objects along with an altered toothbrush that were being used as weapons.

All of the inmates were arraigned in Wyoming County Court and were ordered to reappear in court on later dates.

Click here for a link to the NYS Police Press Release.

Kids from preschool through first grade were shuttled to UMMC’s Cary Hall on East Main in Batavia for a special event today, the Teddy Bear & Doll Clinic.

Health Living Coordinator for the Teddy Bear & Doll Clinic Rachel Cosimeno…

Cosimeno said that around 300 kids participate in the interactive event, being bused in from as far as Orleans and Wyoming Counties.

Dozens of health career academy students stood with white lab coats along with hospital staff, leading children and their stuffed animals through various procedures.

Mercy EMS was also on hand giving tours of an ambulance.

Mercy EMS Marketing Director Kate Glaser…

The annual tradition putting a friendly face on medicine is over 20 year old and wouldn’t be complete without a life-sized Doc McStuffins who is on call.

Press Release:

For the homeschooled families who might have missed the special Information Session at Genesee Community College’s Lima Campus Center, another opportunity awaits you. Homeschooled students and their parents are invited to the Dansville Campus Center on Wednesday, June 27, 2018 from 4 – 6 p.m. to learn about GCC’s exciting opportunities for students who are homeschooled. Key college staff members who work with this student population will be available to educate family members and answer questions.

Homeschooled students have extensive opportunities to advance their education through GCC. Classes are offered in many subject areas and students under age 18 may take approved ACE (Accelerated College Enrollment) courses at a reduced tuition rate. ACE Program Specialist Dan Snyder, who works with many homeschooled students currently enrolled at GCC, will be at the session to provide information. GCC Admissions Director Lindsay Gerhardt will also be present to educate and answer any admissions questions families may have.

The afternoon event will include information about how GCC coursework can help homeschooled students earn the New York State High School Equivalency Diploma. Scholarship and financial aid information will also be available. Participants will also enjoy the opportunity to have refreshments at the Dansville Campus Center.

“Homeschooled students appreciate the many different courses and subject areas, but where classes are small and there is consistently excellent instruction with a low student to teacher ratio,” Associate Dean Amy Churchfield, who oversees GCC Campus Centers in Lima and Dansville said. “GCC is a perfect pathway for homeschool families to transition from their at-home learning environment to college-level curriculum that is rigorous, but also friendly and offers plenty of hands-on learning.”

Families will also have the opportunity to learn about Genesee Promise Plus Summer Scholarship program, which provides ACE students with one or two classes tuition-free to any of GCC seven campus locations or online. More than 140 courses are being offered this summer. GCC has three Summer Sessions: The full Summer session runs for ten weeks starting May 29 – August 11; Session I runs May 29 – June 30; and Session II runs July 9 – August 11.

The Dansville Campus Center is located at 31 Clara Barton Street, Dansville, NY 14437. For more information contact the Dansville Campus Center at (585) 335-7820.

For more information, contact Marketing Communications Associate Director Donna Rae Sutherland at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6616, or via email: dsutherland@genesee.edu.

Violent Sex Offender status determined for Child Molester about to be released.
21 year old Storm Lang has spent the past three years in incarnation on convictions of first and second degree child sex abuse.
In 2014, when Lang was 17 years old he was sexually involved with three different victims ranging from 5 to 12 years old on multiple separate occasions in Alabama and Bethany.
He is now counting down the days until his release and was back in Genesee County Court on Monday for a Sex Offender Registration Act hearing to determine his threat level.
The determination must be decided within 30 days prior to his release.
Judge Charles Zambito gave Lang a level three designation under the legal definition of a sexually violent offender.
Lang will be under post-release supervision for a decade will have to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.
For more on the story check the article by our news partner The Batavian.

New York Democrats and Republicans are starting their two-day conventions today.
Hillary Clinton, the 2016 presidential nominee, is delivering the keynote speech for the Democrats at Hofstra University, where she’ll endorse Governor Cuomo for a third term against former “Sex and the City” actress Cynthia Nixon.
Republicans are meeting in New York City and are expected to nominate Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro for governor.
Two Buffalo natives are working to get their respective party nominations to run for state attorney general.

Six Flags is going to operate the Darien Lake theme park resort.
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation announced yesterday it has an agreement to acquire the lease rights to Darien Lake.
It owned and operated the theme park from 1999 to 2007.
The agreement is expected to close in June.

Local lawmen to be on the lookout for impaired motorists over Memorial Day weekend.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Batavia and LeRoy Police Departments will participate in the statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown effort which starts Friday May 25th and will end on Tuesday May 29th.
Governor Cuomo is also suspending road and bridge construction projects on New York highways throughout the Memorial Day weekend to help ease congestion on one of the busiest travel holidays of the year.

Pre-sale tickets for individual games are now on sale for the Batavia Muckdogs upcoming season.
Season tickets sales are on hold until management can confirm what previous season ticket holders will be renewing and reclaiming their seats.
The home opener is scheduled for June 18th.

Law Enforcement is looking to question a man who was captured on surveillance cameras during an incident at Red Osier Landmark Restaurant in Stafford Monday afternoon at around 1:50 p.m.

Someone reportedly showed up at the restaurant who may have had a weapon and banged on doors and windows causing some damage.

That same person is also believed to have smashed out the windshield in a white Corvette sitting in the parking lot.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the State Police at (585) 344-6200.

Information provided by our news partner The Batavian.

New York Democrats and Republicans are holding two-day state conventions starting tomorrow. Former 2016 Presidential nominee Hillary Clinton is delivering the keynote speech for the Democrats at Hofstra University where she’ll endorse Governor Cuomo for a third term in the face of a primary challenge by “Sex And The City” actress Cynthia Nixon. The Republicans are meeting in New York City where they’re expected to nominate Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro for Governor. Both parties will also nominate a candidate for Attorney General following Eric Schneiderman’s sudden resignation.

Batavia teenager gets state prison time for assaulting a 13 year old.
16 year old Lionel Anderson was sentenced for beating a 13 year old who had his face slammed into the ground. The victim was hospitalized
The incident happened last Nov 28 on Highland Park
Anderson was sentenced to one to three years in state prison and his record will be sealed as a youthful offender.
With time served the Oklahoma native could be released in 6 months.

Local lawmen to be on the lookout for impaired motorists over Memorial Day weekend.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Batavia and LeRoy Police Departments will participate in the statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown effort which starts Friday May 25th and will end on Tuesday May 29th.
Governor Cuomo is also suspending road and bridge construction projects on New York highways throughout the Memorial Day weekend to help ease congestion on one of the busiest travel holidays of the year.

The Peebles store on Veteran’s Memorial Drive is closing.
There has been no official announcement but “store closing signs” popped up over the weekend.
It is unknown when Peebles will shut the doors for good.

Pre-sale tickets for individual games are now on sale for the Batavia Muckdogs upcoming season.
Season tickets sales are on hold until management can confirm what previous season ticket holders will be renewing and reclaiming their seats.
The home opener is scheduled for June 18th.

2018 MEMORIAL DAY SCHEDULE OF CEREMONIES

7:00 AM Genesee County Park – Vietnam Veterans Memorial (VVA#193)

8:00 AM Williams Park W.W.I Memorial (wreath laying, rifle salute & Taps)

8:30 AM Batavia VA Medical Center

8:45 AM NYS Veterans Home

9:30 AM Harvester Ave. Plot (wreath laying, rifle salute & Taps)

10:00 AM Upton Monument (wreath laying, rifle salute & Taps)

10:00 AM Ceremony at Maple Lawn Cemetery in Elba. No parade. The Elba Historical Society Museum will be open for tours after the ceremony.

10:30 AM UMMC – Jerome Center – (Memorial Day ceremonies: Invocation;
National Anthem w/ Batavia Concert Band; G.A.R. Order of the Day;
Veterans Service Organizations Commemorations; Wreath laying w/
Gold Star Mothers; Honor Roll w/ drum roll; Rifle Salute; Taps;
Benediction; “God Bless AmericA”)

11:30 AM GLENN S. LOOMIS GRAVE – Elmwood Cemetery(legion #193)

12:00 PM Hansen Bros. Grave – Grandview Cemetery (MCL #951)

2018 MEMORIAL DAY PARADES

BATAVIA: Parade starting at 9:45 a.m. beginning at the East Town Plaza traveling west along Main Street to Bank Street and ending at the War Memorial Monument on the grounds of the Jerome Center.

BERGEN: Parade at 9:00 a.m. beginning at the Fire Hall (Rts. 19 & Hunter Street), traveling south on Rt. 19 to Hickory Park with ceremony to take place at the park immediately following the parade.

ALEXANDER: Parade begins at 10:30 a.m. at the Alexander High School and travels to the cemetery on Railroad Avenue with a ceremony to take place at the cemetery following the parade..

LEROY: Parade at 10:30 a.m. from the American Legion to Trigon Park with a ceremony at Trigon Park at 11:00 a.m. following the parade.

BYRON: Parade at 11:00 a.m. from Terry Street to Swamp Road with a ceremony immediately following at Byron Cemetery.

OAKFIELD: Parade at 11:00 a.m. from the Oakfield Fire Dept. to Triangle Park with ceremony to be held at Triangle Park.

CORFU: Parade at 12:00 p.m. from Corfu Fire hall on Rt. 33 to the Intermediate School on Rt. 77. Ceremony immediately following the parade.

News Release

Empire Access, a leading telecommunications service provider based in the Finger Lakes region of New York, today announced the completion of its acquisition of Axcess Ontario. Through this acquisition, Empire Access adds over 200 miles of fiber optic network to its existing multi-county network infrastructure. Empire plans to accelerate its expansion of fiber optic service in Ontario County with this newly acquired network.

“We’re excited to announce that we have finalized the acquisition of the Axcess Ontario network,” said Jim Baase, COO of Empire Access. “This allows us to offer our industry-leading Fiber Optic Gigabit Internet, phone and security to homes and businesses throughout Ontario County.”

The Axcess Ontario fiber ring is a 200-plus-mile open-access fiber-optic network in Ontario County in Upstate New York. Since 2005, Axcess Ontario has built and maintained a robust open-access fiber-optic network infrastructure within Ontario County. The open-access network provides advanced connectivity for telecommunications. The Axcess Ontario fiber ring has been recognized as a national broadband model and is the epitome of 21st-century public infrastructure.

“Empire Access is a family-owned and operated company, and our goal is to continue Axcess Ontario’s original mission of providing cutting-edge communications services to the local communities,” said Jim Baase, COO of Empire Access.”

Empire Access currently offers residential and business fiber optic services in the Village of Naples, NY, along with a wide array of fiber optic business services in the Cities of Canandaigua and Geneva, the Village of Victor and Honeoye. The company will expand residential and business service to surrounding communities in the upcoming months and offer fiber optic high-speed Internet, phone and security solutions to residential and business customers within Ontario County.

New first class facility officially opens for first responders.
Mercy EMS ambulances have moved to a brand new headquarters just outside the city off of Route 98.
The move will mean fewer Mercy EMS ambulances racing through busy downtown Batavia responding to calls.
A ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the 2.1-million dollar facility was held yesterday afternoon.
Even with all the accolades heaped on the company yesterday, Mercy EMS cofounder Doug Baker says they can still do better…

Baker who had the vision of creating Mercy Flight back in 1981 was honored with a plaque that will be placed on the new building.
Mercy EMS had previously staged their ambulances at the former St. Jerome’s Hospital on Bank Street.

Batavia teen gets state prison time for assaulting a 13 year old.
16 year old Lionel Anderson appeared in Genesee county court yesterday for sentencing stemming from an incident of assault with a younger teen in Batavia.
Anderson was sentenced for beating a 13 year old who had his face slammed into the ground twice and had to be hospitalized.
Anderson was sentenced to one to three years in state prison and his record will be sealed as a youthful offender.
With time served the Oklahoma native could be released in 6 months.

New York State Democrats and Republicans are gathering at their respective conventions tomorrow ahead of primary races.
Both parties are looking for their best candidates to win the attorney general’s office vacated by Eric Schneiderman.
New York City Public Advocate Letita James is the favorite to win the Democratic nomination while John Cahill, who ran in 2014, is expected to be the GOP’s pick.

Local lawmen to join in DWI crack down over the Memorial Day weekend.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office along with the Batavia and LeRoy Police Departments will participate in a special enforcement effort to crack down on impaired driving.
The statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown efforts start Friday May 25th and will end on Tuesday May 29th.
Memorial Day is one of the busiest travel holidays of the year and marks the official start of summer.

The Peebles Dept store has announced it will be closing after 10 years in the city Bataiva. No specific closure date has been given yet.

The Bills have released Ritchie Incognito from the reserve and retired list.
This will make Incognito a free agent able to sign with any team.
Last month he said he planned to retire for health reasons.
However, ESPN reports that he told the Bills he wants to keep playing.

We will probably see fewer Mercy EMS ambulances screaming through downtown Batavia.
The emergency medical service has moved to a brand new headquarters just outside the city off of Route 98.
The 2.1-million dollar facility officially went into service yesterday.

Jay Gsell, Genesee County Manager

Genesee County Manager Jay Gsell was among a host of dignitaries marking the occasion

Mercy EMS had staged their ambulances at the former St. Jerome’s Hospital on Bank Street.

Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro is expected to secure the Republican nomination for New York governor later this week.
GOP leaders will nominate their choice to challenge Democratic Governor Andrew Cuomo on Wednesday, as their party convention kicks off in New York City.
Molinaro tapped former Rye Deputy Mayor Julie Killian as his running mate.
According to a recent Siena College poll, Molinaro has his work cut out for him, as he trails Cuomo, 57 to 31-percent, among New York voters.

A Sex Offender jailed without bail for failing to register.
42 year old Matthew Cratsley of Buell Street Batavia was charged with Failure to report change of address required by Sex Offenders in New York State.
He was ordered to be held in the Genesee County Jail without bail.

A pregnant inmate who escaped from Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester has been indicted by a grand jury on several charges.
19-year-old Aliyah Burden was being guarded by a Monroe County Sheriff’s deputy in the maternity ward when she created a diversion and escaped. Authorities searched for her for hours before finding her outside the parking garage entrance.

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 crack down on impaired driving.

The statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown efforts start on May 25th and will end on May 29th. Memorial Day is one of the busiest travel holidays of the year and marks the official start of summer. New York State Police, County Sheriffs and municipal law enforcement agencies will collaborate across the state and will be out in force in this coordinated effort to reduce the number of impaired driving-related injuries and deaths.

Memorial Day marks the beginning of the summer season. Genesee County Sheriff’s Office D.W.I. enforcement patrols will be out in full force throughout the upcoming Memorial Day weekend in an effort to secure the safety of the community, said Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr.

“Memorial Day is a great time to spend with friends and family.” says Chief Shawn Heubusch, “All are encouraged to enjoy the Holiday responsibly. If you must travel be sure to not do so under the influence of alcohol or drugs. We all must do our part to keep our roadways safe during this holiday, law enforcement will be doing its part by arresting those impaired or intoxicated drivers.”

The STOP-DWI Memorial Day Weekend Crackdown is one of many statewide enforcement initiatives promoted by the New York State STOP-DWI Association with additional funding from the STOP-DWI Foundation courtesy of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. The Statewide STOP-DWI Crackdown Campaign also targets the 4th of July, Labor Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Holiday Season, Super Bowl weekend a

New Mercy EMS Facility on Call Parkway

Mercy EMS, the ground based arm of Mercy Flight Medical Helicopter, has officially moved its headquarters.
Ambulances will now be staged in a new 2.1-million dollar facility on Call Parkway, just off of Route 98.
A host of local dignitaries were on hand at today’s ribbon cutting for the new facility.

Douglas Baker Founder, Mercy Flight

With all the accolades heaped on Mercy EMS today, founder Doug Baker says they can still do better

All of Mercy’s ground ambulances are now moved from the former St. Jerome’s on Bank Street to the new facility near the airport.

State Police arrested 19 year old David Castaneda Trejo of Byron yesterday afternoon following a trespassing complaint on Byron Holley Road.
Trejo was charged with Class-A Misdemeanor counts of Criminal Trespassing and providing a False Written Statement.
Trejo was released with an appearance ticket.

Press Release:

For over 20 years the Teddy Bear & Doll Clinic has provided an innovative, hands-on opportunity to educate young children about what it’s like to visit a heath care professional when they’re sick or hurt—and to serve as a healthy reminder that there is nothing to fear.

Over 200 children will transform their favorite doll or stuffed animal into a “patient”, and take them through various hospital stations, resembling areas such as: registration, stitching, x-ray, respiratory therapy, emergency, laboratory services, and nutrition. Children will also get the opportunity to meet a life-sized Doc McStuffins, and explore an ambulance.

WHEN: Wednesday, May 23, 2018
Session 1: 9:00am – 11:00am
Session 2: Noon – 1:30pm

WHERE: United Memorial Medical Center
Cary Hall Auditorium
211 East Main Street, Batavia

WHO: The Teddy Bear and Doll Clinic is scheduled with pre-registered preschoolers, kindergarteners, and first graders and open to the public Noon-1:30pm.

MORE: The following are recognized for making this event possible: UMMC Healthy Living, Health Careers Academy, Mercy EMS, and UMMC volunteers.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)[center] poses with veterans of the U.S. Air Force at a memorial honoring Air Force veterans during last year’s Patriot Trip to Washington D.C.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today announced that his 11th annual Patriot Trip to Washington D.C. will take place September 20 – September 23, 2018. Over 100 veterans and their family members participated in the 2017 trip, which included stories of valiant service members and valuable time spent together reflecting on the courage and dedication exhibited by our nation’s veterans. Hawley is a longtime supporter of veterans and has served on the Assembly Veterans’ Affairs Committee since 2006.

Only veterans who have never been on the trip before may sign up now. After August 1, veterans who have been on the trip before and those living outside of the 139th Assembly District may apply. The approximate cost of the trip is $400, which includes meals, transportation and admission to the memorials.

“The Patriot Trip is one of my favorite events throughout the year,” Hawley said. “This trip was inspired by Mike Paduzak, a World War Two veteran, who asked me to come together with local veterans and host a trip to Washington D.C. Through the experiences of my father, veterans I have met during previous year’s trips, and my own service in the military, I have gained a tremendous understanding and admiration for the sacrifices endured by our veterans. It is for these reasons that I continue the Patriot Trip each year and have solidified it as one of the staples of my service to our community.”

Attractions Hawley plans to visit this year on the trip include:

White House
U.S. Capitol
WWII Memorial
Gettysburg
Korean War Memorial
Vietnam War Memorial
Iwo Jima – The Marine Corps Memorial
American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial
Air Force Memorial
911 Memorial at the Pentagon
Arlington National Cemetery, including the Changing of the Guard
Wreath Laying at the Tomb of the Unknowns

If you or a veteran you know want more information about this year’s Patriot Trip XI, please call 585-589-5780 or email carneyj@nyassembly.gov. To view photos from previous years, use the following link: http://vetsdctrip2008.shutterfly.com/.

Press Release:

Byron-Bergen Elementary School celebrates STEAM in a spectacular event

Bergen, NY ~ STEAM: Science; Technology; Engineering; Art; Math. The five disciplines were on full display on May 15, 2018 at the Byron-Bergen Elementary School’s seventh-annual K-6 Science Fair and Art Show. Parents, families and community members were invited to walk hallways filled with more than 500 pieces of colorful art, and see over 40 student-designed science fair projects. New this year were “robot miniature golf,” where students programmed robot golf balls to negotiate a nine-hole course; interactive “selfie walls” for fun photos; and a special black light room that gave viewers a whole new perspective on artwork.

The Science Fair and Art Show was the culmination of a year’s worth of inspiration and hard work by students at all the elementary school grade levels. Organized by art teacher Melissa Coniglio and science teacher Craig Schroth, the show highlighted diverse creative talents and a wide range of student-driven, extracurricular science projects.

Projects ranged from the interaction of Mentos with soda, hurricanes, and why bees are dying, to what kind of rain occurs on other planets. “Many students have been working on their science projects all year,” said Schroth. “They chose their own topics and then completed experiments at home. The Fair is an opportunity for them to show off their work to fellow classmates, and then demonstrate to the public. They are proud to share their results with their families and scores of other science lovers.”

Coniglio enjoyed planning the interactive aspects of the show. “I love to see people get really involved with the artwork and the exhibits,” she said. “It becomes an experience they can take home with them. It was fun watching kids and parents take pictures under the black light and with the selfie walls.”

The Science Fair and Art Show is one of Principal Brian Meister’s favorite events. “I love seeing how open our students are to new ideas, scientifically and artistically, and how motivated they are to explore. As educators, we want to encourage this sense of endless possibility and wonder, and give students the opportunity to share their excitement with others.”

Byron-Bergen Elementary school students created a miniature golf course designed to be navigated by robot golf balls.

Student demonstrating how to program the robots to negotiate the golf course.

Fourth-grader Pearl Jolliff with her project on re-growing plants from kitchen scraps.

The walls of the black light room were covered with colorful artwork, like these paintings, inspired by artist George Rodrigue’s famous Blue Dog.

Selfie walls with hearts, butterflies and wings invited viewers to become part of the artwork.

Local man shares decade old knife attack by accused Central Ave Murderer.
One man is dead and three people are facing charges following a violent brawl on the city streets of Batavia.
41 year old Terry Toote of West Main Street died at UMMC after being stabbed in the chest after a brawl on Central Ave Thursday night.
30 year old Nathaniel Wilson of Chestnut Street has been accused of murdering Toote.
Wilson was shot in the leg following the scrap.
17 year old Samuel Blackshear was charged with attempted murder for allegedly shooting Wilson and 48 year old Jennifer Urvizu-Hanlon is accused of supplying the weapon to the teenager.
Both have been jailed without bail.
It’s not the first time Wilson has been arrested for attacking someone with a knife.
Louis Kingsbury said Wilson nearly stabbed him in the back 12 years ago after a scuffle behind Biggie’s Sandwich Shop on East Main Street…

Wilson eventually accepted a plea deal in the matter and was ultimately sent to prison for several years.
He was also sentenced to state prison in 2016 for criminal possession of a weapon.
Police have said violence in the area of Central Ave has been an ongoing issue that has led to increased surveillance and street lighting.
Police are still investigating the violence to see what led to the bad blood.
For more on the story check the article by our news partner The Batavian.

Sex Offender behind bars for failing to register.
42 year old Matthew Cratsley of Buell Street Batavia was arrested and charged with Failure to report change of address and to complete a verification form required by Sex Offenders in New York State.
Cratsley allegedly moved without notifying the sex offender registry and failed to complete an annual verification form.
He was ordered to be held in the Genesee County Jail without bail.

A famous mustachioed man made his way through Medina over the weekend.
Famous TV personality Geraldo Rivera docked at the Medina port with his production crew on Friday as part of his canal journey from New York to Cleveland.
Members of the Medina Waterfront Committee lured in the FOX news star with a giant sign saying Hey Geraldo STOP HERE Historic Medina.
Local business owners then ushered him to the newly established Fitzgibbons Celtic Pub on Main Street where he apparently taped a segment for the Sean Hannity show that aired later that night.

Congressman Chris Collins is pushing for a solution for Dreamers.
Collins signed onto a petition with about 20 other Republicans to try to force a vote on immigration reform.
If five more House Republicans join with Democrats to sign what’s known as a discharge petition, it will force the issue to the floor despite the House leadership.
Collins is following up on a vow that he made to help undocumented immigrants brought here as children.

Memorial to victim of Central Ave. stabbing    PHOTO: The Batavian

Three people are facing charges, one is accused of murder, following Thursday night’s reign of terror on Central Avenue in Batavia.
41 year old Terry Toote of West Main Street was stabbed in the chest and later died at UMMC.
30 year old Nathaniel Wilson of Chestnut Street was charged with murder in the death of Toote.
Wilson was shot in the leg after allegedly stabbing Toote.
The shooter, 17 year old Samuel Blackshear, has been charged with attempted murder.
Police say Blackshear was given the gun by 48 year old Jennifer Urvizu-Hanlon, operator of La Mexicana in the Valu Plaza. She is facing for her part in the case.
Police say there’s been bad blood in the neighborhood for weeks. Thursday’s violence was triggered by a large fight, several were kicking and throwing punches. Police still asking for information from the public.

New York lawmakers are trying to make sports betting legal in the state. Earlier this week, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that prohibiting sports betting is unconstitutional.
This overturned the 1992 sports betting ban.
The state Senate is working to put together a sports betting package in the next few weeks.
Western Region Off Track Betting, owner of Batavia Downs, has said they are ready to move quickly to establish a legal sports book.

Governor Cuomo is calling out President Trump and members of Congress, saying they’re not doing their part to prevent mass shootings like the one in Santa Fe, Texas, Friday. In a short, but terse statement, Cuomo listed high-profile shootings and demanded that it’s time to do something about the problem. He says as elected officials, their first responsibility is to the people of this country, and not to the N-R-A.

Two more persons are arrested in connection with a shooting and fatal stabbing incident in Batavia.
One man is dead, another is shot and two more individuals are now behind bars following a series of violent brawling, stabbing, and shooting in the city.
41 year old Terry J. Toote, of West Main Street, was found lying on Central Ave with a stab wound to the chest just after 11:30 Thursday night. He was taken to UMMC where he was pronounced dead.
30 year old Nathaniel Wilson of Chestnut Street was arrested and charged with murdering Toote, however he apparently sustained a gunshot wound to the leg from another culprit.
Police now have two more suspects in custody in connection with the shooting.
City of Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch…

Jennifer K. Urvizu-Hanlon

Samuel R. Blackshear

48 year old Jennifer K. Urvizu-Hanlon of the Town of Batavia was charged with Criminal Liability for Conduct of Another/Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd Degree (2 counts), as she is alleged to have provided the firearm used in the shooting.
17 year old Samuel R. Blackshear with no permanent address listed was charged with Attempted Murder in the 2nd Degree, Attempted Assault in the 1st degree, Assault in the 2nd Degree, and two counts Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 2nd Degree for allegedly shooting Nathaniel D. Wilson Jr.
A second search warrant was served on La Mexicana Inc., on West Main Street, as this was property controlled and operated by Urvizu-Hanlon.
Both Blackshear and Urvizu-Hanlon were committed to Genesee County Jail without bail pending future court appearances.
According to City of Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch investigators are working to piece together what led to the events and said the area along Central and Pringle Ave has been plagued with disturbances recently…

Police have installed better lighting and video surveillance in the area which were instrumental in quickly identifying the assailants in the incident.
According to Police all the potential suspects in the case are now in custody.

New York lawmakers are trying to make sports betting legal in the state. Earlier this week, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that prohibiting sports betting is unconstitutional.
This overturned the 1992 sports betting ban.
The state Senate is working to put together a sports betting package in the next few weeks.
Western Region Off Track Betting, owner of Batavia Downs, has said they are ready to move quickly to establish a legal sports book

Governor Cuomo is calling out President Trump and members of Congress, saying they’re not doing their part to prevent mass shootings like the one in Santa Fe, Texas, Friday.
In a short, but terse statement, Cuomo listed high-profile shootings and demanded that it’s time to do something about the problem.
He says as elected officials, their first responsibility is to the people of this country, and not to the N-R-A.
Cuomo signed the letter with a signature that included his “F”-rating from the N-R-A.

A Batavia man is stabbed to death while his suspected killer was shot during a violent scene on the city’s south side.
41 year old Terry J. Toote, whose last known address was West Main Street, was stabbed in the chest and left lying in Central Avenue just after 11:30 last night.
His suspected assailant, 30 year old Nathaniel Wilson of Chestnut Street, was shot in the leg. Wilson has been charged with murder in the death of Toote.
Late this afternoon, the person of interest in the shooting of Wilson, has been located in an apartment on West Main Street and detained by police. This “person of interest” has not been identified.
What triggered the violence, and what, if any relationship existed among the actors, has not been determined.
Police say they have surveillance video of the crime scene.
As family and friends of both Toole and Wilson gathered at UMMC a disturbance broke out in the waiting room and the hospital was placed on lockdown.

Asst. Batavia Police Chief Todd Crossett

The neighborhood around Central and Pringle Avenues has been the scene of recent trouble.
Batavia Assistant Police Chief Todd Crossett says officers have focused on the area

It is still not clear what triggered the disturbance last night.
Authorities said video from the surveillance was useful in the investigation.

New York lawmakers are trying to make sports betting legal in the state. Earlier this week, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that prohibiting sports betting is unconstitutional.
This overturned the 1992 sports betting ban.
The state Senate is working to put together a sports betting package in the next few weeks.
Western Region Off Track Betting, owner of Batavia Downs, has said they are ready to move quickly to establish a legal sports book

News Release: Batavia Police Dept.

At approximately 11:24 PM last night (May 17) Genesee County 911 received a call from a citizen who stated there was a possible shooting in the area of Pringle Ave and Central Ave in the City of Batavia. The caller stated there was a male subject down in the area.

Officers arrived on scene moments later and found a male subject laying alongside Central Ave; EMS was summoned immediately. The male subject appeared to be have suffered a stab wound to the chest. He was transported by ambulance to UMMC where he was later pronounced deceased by Genesee County Coroner Coleman.

This subject is identified as:
Terry J. Toote, age 41, LKA West Main St., Batavia

Nathaniel D. Wilson Jr.

A second male subject arrived at the ER with a gunshot wound to the leg. He is identified as:
Nathaniel D. Wilson Jr., age 30, LKA Chestnut St, Batavia

While being treated at UMMC, investigators developed information that Nathaniel D. Wilson Jr. was the person responsible for stabbing Terry J. Toote. Wilson was treated for his injuries and when released, he was arrested and charged with one count of Murder in the 2nd degree for the stabbing death of Terry Toote.

During the investigation there was a disturbance at UMMC stemming from the family and friends of Wilson and Toote. The hospital initiated a lockdown as a precautionary measure. There were no weapons displayed or threatened. More officers were called to the hospital to deal with the situation, all parties were separated and no charges have been filed for that incident.

Investigators have developed a person of interest in the shooting of Nathaniel D. Wilson Jr. and are currently tracking down leads and interviewing witnesses in order to draw up charges. We are not releasing that person’s name at this time.

The Department has had multiple calls for service in the area in question over the past several weeks, there have been several multiple person fights reported and some involving weapons. It in unknown at this time of any of the incidents are connected to this stabbing and shooting.

Due to these issues the Department installed a video surveillance camera in the area and had the street lighting enhanced. The street surveillance camera was instrumental in this investigation. The Department has also received several other videos showing the incident from witnesses who will remain anonymous. These too were instrumental in aiding in this investigation.

The Department would like to thank the New York State Police, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, the Genesee County Local Drug Task Force, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (ENCON), City of Batavia Fire Department, Mercy Medics and Genesee County District’s Attorney’s Office.

Anyone with information in reference to the case may contact Detective Thad Mart at 585-345-6372 or the Batavia Police Department at 585-345-6350, the confidential tip line

at 585-345-6370 or online

Scene of shooting and stabbing on Central Ave. late Thursday night. PHOTO: The Batavian

One man is dead and another seriously injured in what police say is a shooting and stabbing on Central Avenue near Pringle.
We have confirmed that one of the two men taken to the hospital has died.
The incident happened just after 11:30 last night. Police have not said if the dead man was the victim of the stabbing or the shooting
Assistant Police Chief Todd Crossett led the investigation

If you have any information on the incident, call Batavia Police.

A Batavia woman has been indicted on 19 felony charges for allegedly bilking her employer out of more than 3-thousand dollars.
46 year old Darcia Golda of West Main Street is accused defrauding the Rite Aid Pharmacy in Batavia between October of 2016 and September of 2017.
Prosecutors say Golda falsified return slips on numerous occasions in order to steal from the store.

A Batavia man is jailed for allegedly making threats to kill somebody.
21 year old Tyshon Taylor is charged with menacing and locked up on 25-hundred dollars bail.

Legendary Bills quarterback Jim Kelly is going to have more surgery.
He just had a cancerous tumor removed from his jaw in March.
Jill Kelly posted on social media that doctors want to do two less serious surgeries.
Kelly’s expected to go under the knife again in June and September.

Batavia Police investigate shooting and stabbing on Central Ave.

One man is dead and another seriously injured in what police say is a shooting and stabbing on Central Avenue near Pringle.

We have confirmed that one of the two men taken to the hospital has died.

The incident happened just after 11:30 last night. Police have not said if the dead man was the victim of the stabbing or the shooting.

Both victims were taken to United Memorial Medical Center.

Witnesses said they heard what sounded like three shots, but that has not been confirmed by police.

Ast Batavia Police Chief Todd Crossett

Assistant Police Chief Todd Crossett acknowledges trouble has been on the increase in the neighborhood:

If you have any information on the incident, call Batavia Police.

Mt. Morris Police Chief Kenneth Magnemi

Terri Havens

A Mount Morris sex offender is accused of violating terms of his parole.

Terri Todd Havens served 13 years in prison for sexually abusing a five year girl. Police say Havens recently posted an ad on Craigslist looking for a personal aide. Accessing the internet is a parole violation.

A woman who answered the ad recognized Havens.
Mount Morris Police Chief Kenneth Mignemi says that’s not hard to do

A parole violation could send Havens back to state prison.

A Batavia woman has been indicted on 19 felony charges for allegedly bilking her employer out of more than 3-thousand dollars.
46 year old Darcia Golda of West Main Street is accused defrauding the Rite Aid Pharmacy in Batavia between October of 2016 and September of 2017.
Prosecutors say Golda falsified return slips on numerous occasions in order to steal from the store.

A Batavia man is jailed for allegedly making threats to kill somebody.
21 year old Tyshon Taylor is charged with menacing and locked up on $2,500 bail.

The Social Security administration today releases the most popular baby names in New York State for 2017:
The number one most popular name for boys: Liam (LEE-am)
Most popular girls name: Olivia
Other names on the most popular list for boys: Noah, Jacob, Lucas and Joseph; for girls, Emma, Sophia, Mia and Ava.

Terri Havens

A Mount Morris man, designated a level three sex offender, has been jailed for allegedly violating his parole.
Terri Havens served 13 years for sexually abusing a five-year-old.
He recently posted an ad on Craigslist looking for a personal aide.
A woman in town recognized Havens and turned him in.

Any internet use by a level three sex offender is considered a parole violation.
Mount Morris Police say Havens doesn’t exactly keep a low profile in town.
Chief Kenneth Mignemi says Havens dresses in a long black trench coat, wears a black wizard hat, a studded dog collar and Goth style make-up.
Havens faces the possibility of being sent back to prison.

LeRoy firemen rescue a man who fell over a cliff and into a gravel pit.
It happened shortly after midnight near Circular Hill Road in LeRoy.
The unidentified man suffered a foot injury.
He said he was walking along the edge of the gravel pit and slipped.
He called a friend for help, he called pole. Later both were charged with trespassing.

The city’s newest fire fighter comes to the job with seven years of volunteer experience…and he’s only 23.
He is Ryan Hinz, he’s been a volunteer with the Alexander Fire Department since he was 16 and twice named firefighter of the year.
Now, he’s joined the ranks of career firemen

If the name is familiar, maybe it’s because his Dad is city fire captain Marty Hinz.

An unemployed New York City man wants to keep his five-million-dollar lottery win a secret. The 24-year-old, who doesn’t even have a bank account, bought the winning scratch-off ticket last month at a Bronx liquor store. Lottery rules say he can’t collect unless he takes part in a news conference in which he’s handed a giant check. But he says he’s afraid people will start hitting him up for money or try to scam him if they know about the windfall, so he’s demanding that the lottery folks keep his identity hush-hush. If they don’t, he says he’ll sue.

A good day for school budget votes.
Budgets were passed by wide margins in all eight public school districts in Genesee County.
Batavia City School District voters approved a 52-million dollar budget for next year.
Three incumbent school board members, including Pat Burke, were re-elected.
All ran unopposed.

A Pembroke woman has been indicted for arson, accused of destroying her ex-boyfriends Harley.
52 year old Jacqueline Saeli charged with setting fire to shed last January. The fire destroy the 2008 Harley Davidson motorcycle stored inside.

A former Perry man gets another 10 years for the repeated rape of a 13 year old girl.
38 year old Lance Riley was sentenced in Livingston County Court yesterday in the same case he was sentenced for last week in Wyoming County court. He got 10 years there also.
Both terms will run consecutively putting Riley away for 20 years.

Governor Cuomo is asking Hudson Valley residents to have patience with utility companies. Tens of thousands are still without power in Putnam, Westchester, and Rockland counties from yesterday’s intense storm. However, Cuomo says given so many roads are closed because of downed trees it will take some time to get power back.

Lawmakers are busy in Albany interviewing 13 candidates for the position of interim state attorney general. Acting Attorney General Barbara Underwood took over for Eric Schneiderman, who resigned following abuse allegations from women. Underwood is one of the candidates being considered to temporarily fill the position but says she will not run for attorney general in the fall.

Over 300 volunteers are participating today in the 11th annual United Way Day of Caring in Genesee County.
38 businesses and organizations are working at 37 project sites throughout the county.

Day of Caring volunteers repair bicycles at Adam Miller Toy & Bike. Bicycles were donated from a variety of sources and given to charitable organizations.

Volunteers from the Arc of Genesee Orleans collect food at Tops

Voters in all eight Genesee County public school districts approve budgets for the coming school year.
In Batavia: a $52-million budget passed by 78 to 22 percent.
Three incumbent school board members were re-elected, they were running unopposed, including long time board member Pat Burke.
School budgets in the remaining districts were also approved by wide margins.

Votes Totals from All Districts:

Alexander:

Budget: Yes: 152, No: 32
Bus Purchases: Yes: 139, No: 46
Equipment Capital Reserve: Yes: 132, No: 53

Board of Education, Sara Fernaays: 151. Write-Ins: 8

Batavia:

Budget Yes: 371 (78.27%), No: 103 (21.73%)
Student Ex-Officio Board Member (non-voting): Yes: 422 (89.03%), No: 52 (10.97%)

Board of Education positions (3) (Top vote term is from May 15, 2018 to June 30, 2021, and the next two terms are from July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2021): Zachary Korzelius , 408, Shawna Murphy, 407, Patrick Burk, 387.

Byron-Bergen:
Budget: Yes: 448, No: 125, Passed
Proposition 2 (Bus Purchase) Yes: 439, No: 128, Passed

Board Member Elected – 3 Year Terms: William Forsyth: 480, Debi List: 429, Amy Mathisen, 165.

Elba:

Proposition #1 – 2018-2019 Budget – $9,720,931: Yes: 108, No: 40.
Proposition #2 – Capital Vehicle Reserve to purchase one (1) 65 passenger school bus: Yes: 116, No: 33

Board of Education, Candy Bezon (Incumbent): 133

Le Roy:

Budget: Yes: 319, No: 65
Library Budget: Yes: 345, No: 39

School Board Members (Vote for Three): William Mackenzie: 322, Lloyd Miller: 289, Lawrence Bonacquisti: 309. Write-ins (one vote each): Mickey Mouse, Stan Barringer, Phil Mangefrida.

Woodward Memorial Library Trustee (Vote for One): Philip Weise: 342. Write-ins (receiving one vote each): Rob Currin, Porpus Rogers, Brian Manley.

Oakfield-Alabama:

Proposition #1: Budget Yes: 255 No: 60 Passed
Proposition #2: Buses Yes: 278 No: 63 Passed

Board of Education
Timothy Edgerton: 254
Lorna Klotzbach: 217
Douglas Esten: 141

Pavilion:

Budget, Yes: 156, No: 32, Passed

Board of Education, 5-year term (vote for one): Christopher Jeffres: 93, John Bannister (Incumbent): 89.

Pembroke:

Budget Yes: 301 No: 73 Passed 80.5%
Authorization to Purchase School Buses, Yes: 301, No: 73. Passed 80.5 percent.
Authorization to Establish a Facilities Improvement Reserve Fund, Yes: 296, No: 75, Passed 79.8 percent

A former Perry man gets another 10 years for the repeated rape of a 13 year old girl.
38 year old Lance Riley was sentenced in Livingston County Court yesterday in the same case he was sentenced for last week in Wyoming County court. He got 10 years there also.
Both terms will run consecutively.

Big state money earmarked for Batavia and Genesee County roads and bridges.
Senator Michael Ranzenhofer announces today t a record level of state funding for local communities.
The city of Batavia is set to receive over 426-thousand dollars in funding and Genesee County is on tap for nearly 2.3 million.

Batavia Police searching for witnesses to a weekend slugfest.
The fracas occurred Sunday night near Central Ave and Jackson St.
Four people were injured in the melee, one seriously.
If you know anything, police ask you call the confidential tip line: 345-63-70.

An emergency demolition is set for a two-story building in Buffalo’s east side that caught fire early this morning. Flames broke out around 2:30 this morning in a convenience store on Walden Ave. and Gittere Street.
The fire caused nearly half-a-million-dollars in damages. No one was injured.

Polls are open until 9 tonight in all eight Genesee County public school systems.
The schools are holding their annual budget votes today and electing members to Boards of Education.
In Batavia, a 52-million dollar budget carries a tax levy increase of just under 2.4 percent.
Three incumbent school board members are seeking re-election in the Batavia City District. All three are running unopposed.

A Perry man has been sentenced to 10 years in state prison for the repeated rape of a 13 year old girl.
38 year old Lance Riley will also spend 18 years in post release supervision.
In 2004, Riley was convicted and served time for assault after burning the same child in a bathtub as an infant.

Batavia Police search for witness in city assault.
It occurred Sunday night near Central Ave and Jackson St.
Police say 3 people were taken to the hospital and released while a fourth person was seriously injured from the attack.
Anyone with information in the case is encouraged to call Batavia Police confidential tip line. (345-6370)

Record setting state funds roll in for rehabbing and repairing infrastructure.
Senator Michael Ranzenhofer has announced today that a record level of state funding will continue to help local governments rehabilitate area highways, roads and bridges.
The city of Batavia is set to receive over $426,000 funding and Genesee County is on tap for nearly $2.3 million

Governor Cuomo is postponing his trip to Israel due to the violence on the Gaza border.
Cuomo was supposed to visit Golan Heights after missiles were fired toward the area last week.
Cuomo’s office says the governor wants to also visit the Gaza border and will reschedule his trip once violence in the area subsides.

Press Release:

Albany, NY– State Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer has announced today that a record level of state funding will continue to help local governments rehabilitate area highways, roads and bridges.

“Western New York will be getting its fair share of state transportation dollars again this year. With winter finally over, local highway crews will start to put these dollars to work by fixing our infrastructure. This state funding will help to provide safe and reliable transportation for motorists and their families,” said Ranzenhofer.

A total of $603 million in statewide funding will help municipalities with infrastructure improvement projects. The 2018-19 New York State Budget allocates $438 million for the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement program (CHIPS), $100 million for the Pave NY program and $65 million for the Extreme Winter Recovery program.

The following is a breakdown of funding by municipality:

Erie County

Monroe County

Genesee County

Convicted child rapist from Perry sent to prison.
A Former Perry resident will be spending the next ten years in state prison on a first degree Rape conviction.
38 year old Lance Riley pleaded guilty to first degree Rape in March for repeatedly raping a 13 year old girl and was sentenced last week in Wyoming County Court to 10 years in prison to be followed by 18 years post release supervision.
In a statement released by Wyoming County District Attorney Donald O’Geen, he said Riley “continuously and savagely” raped the victim over a long period of time, and said this is the second time Riley is going to prison for harming the same child.
In 2004 Riley was convicted and sent to prison for assault after burning the child in the bathtub as an infant.
District Attorney O’Geen said Riley’s guilty plea in the rape case was a complete vindication to the victim.

The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision on sports-betting has the Downs getting on deck for sports betting in New York.
The court struck down a federal ban on the practice, paving the way for many states to begin legalizing betting on college and professional sports.
Batavia Downs is already securing partners and prepping their facility to be on the ground floor of offering sports betting in NY.
Chief Operating Officer for Batavia Downs Mike Nolan…

Nolan says the casino is looking forward to working with New York lawmakers to enable legislation to capitalize on the new opportunity.

Police believe alcohol may have been involved in a fatal ATV accident in East Pembroke.
Police say 51 year old Robert Boyce was trying to make a turn along a trail near Hartshorn Road in East Pembroke Sunday night when his ATV rolled over.
He was taken to ECMC where he later died.
Investigators believe speed and alcohol may have been factors in the crash.

Police seeking public assistance in an assault near Central Ave and Jackson Street in the city.
The Batavia Police Department is investigating an assault which occurred Sunday night at approximately 11:30.
According to authorities 4 victims were located on scene, 3 of which were treated at the hospital and released and one who remains with serious injuries.
Batavia Police are looking for any witnesses to the event.
Anyone with information in the case may the confidential tip line at 345-6370.

Voters in school districts across Genesee County today will decide budgets for the coming year.
In the Batavia City School District, the largest in the county, a budget of 52-million dollars goes to a vote.
The financial plan carries a tax levy increase of just under 2.4 percent.
Three incumbent school board members are running for re-election, unopposed.
Voting in Batavia takes place today from 7am to 9pm at Robert Morris building and Batavia High School.
Genesee County’s remaining seven public school districts also will be holding budget votes today.

A weekend ATV accident turns fatal today.
51 year old Robert Boyce of East Pembroke died early this morning at ECMC in Buffalo.
Mr. Boyce was injured yesterday when his ATV failed to negotiate a curve on a trail near Hartshorn Road.
Deputies say alcohol use and speed may be contributing factors.

Michael Nolan COO Batavia Downs

Batavia Downs celebrating today as they are one step closer to being able to offer betting on spots beyond horse racing.
The U.S. Supreme Court has struck down the 1992 federal law that prohibited gambling on Professional and Amateur sports.
Mike Nolan is Chief Operating Officer for Batavia Downs

The next step is legislative approval of sports betting in New York State.

Batavia police investigating an assault near Central Avenue and Jackson Street.
Police said the fight happened about 11:30 last night.
Four people were hurt in the fracas, one has been admitted to the hospital with serious injuries.
Police are asking for information from the public.

An Attica woman sent to prison for using a child in a porn video.
23 year old Victoria Young was sentenced to 5 years in state prison and 10 years post release supervision.
Young was accused of videotaping a sex act between a 4 year old and an adult.

Bills fans are mourning the death of a former head coach.
Chuck Knox has died at the age of 86 after a long battle with dementia.
He coached Buffalo from 1978 to 1982.