Local News

The Genesee Community College men’s lacrosse team display their championship plaque after defeating Monroe 22-6

Press Release:

GCC Men’s Lacrosse Team Punches Ticket to Final Four with Regional Crown Win over Monroe

The No. 3 Genesee Community College men’s lacrosse team dismantled Monroe Community College 22-6 at Lazer Field in Syracuse April 28 to capture one of two National Junior College Athletic Association Region-III titles and advance to the Final Four in two weeks at the same venue.

The game started without any weather issues, but four minutes into the third quarter the game was delayed 30 minutes so that lightning could pass. Unfortunately for Monroe, at the time of the delay lightning had already struck the scoreboard as Genesee’s offense was more electric than any weather threat by having 15 goals at that point.

The Tribunes got the first game of the contest, but after an illegal check put the Cougars in a man-up situation Genesee took the lead for good an never looked back.

Genesee scored 14 first-half unanswered goals to take a 13-goal lead into the intermission. Although the contest was tied at 1-1 midway through the first quarter, Genesee tacked on five more tallies to end the opening quarter including their final three that came in a 63-second span with the last goal by current NJCAA Men’s Lacrosse Player of the Week Jordan Brennan as the official game winner. The Cougars’ scoring was more evenly spread in the second quarter as they matched the seven they put up in the first.

As impressive as Genesee’s offensive display was, perhaps the best player of the half – and possibly the game – was Cougar goalie Garrett Lazore. Without a doubt, he played his best 30 minutes of the season during the first half and was selected to the Region-III Championship All-Tournament Team. Lazore made eight saves in his three quarters of work leaving the game after Genesee had an 18-3 lead.

Evan Hollfelder tallied seven points from four goals and three assists to lead all Genesee players. Three Cougars registered five-point outings that included Kevin McParlene, Alex Mack, and Brennan.

Genesee had two players with four-goal performances that included Samuel Koczwara and Hollfelder; a pair of players with three goals each in Mack and Brennan; and two players with a pair of goals McParlene and Josh Bernas.

GCC men’s lacrosse captains pose with the region championship plague. (From left-to-right) Mat Anderson, Sam Koczwara, Alex Mack and Patrick Shea

Four players scored single tallies that included Jason Chiodo, Patrick Bilbrey, Tyler Thompson and Andrew Forte, with the latter dominating the faceoff circle and joining teammates Lazore and Hollfelder on the all-tournament team.

Mark Campbell and Adam Witscheber were also selected to the all-tournament team from Monroe.

It was the seventh time in the last eight years the Cougars have booked a trip to the Final Four. The Cougars now return to Lazer Stadium May 12-13 in the hunt for another national crown, which they first achieved in 2016.

Mark Jagord
GCC Sports Information

Joana Reiko Sato (left), Dr. Virginia Taylor, vice president of GCC Student Enrollment and Yuki Lai (right)

News Release:

Two Genesee Community College students were inducted into the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Honor Society this semester at a special academic awards ceremony in the New York State Museum in Albany in March. Phi Theta Kappa is a prestigious international honor society for students in two-year colleges. The society promotes academic excellence and provides leadership opportunities, service projects and fellowship amongst members.

GCC’s PTK chapter, Alpha lota Upsilon was founded in 1985 by Dr. Bernie Hoerbert, a retired professor of Mathematics. To be eligible for induction into Alpha lota Upsilon, students must complete at least 12 credit hours, earn a 3.6 grade point average (GPA) to be inducted and maintain a 3.3 GPA to remain a member. To date, the Alpha Iota Upsilon PTK chapter has over 3,000 members.

At the ceremony, GCC sophomore Yuki Lai of Brockport, NY was inducted based on her 3.88 GPA in GCC’s Associate in Applied Science in Digital Art program. She has been involved with numerous student clubs including Applecore, the International Student Organization and Foodlink. Her poster design was selected by GCC’s Fashion program students to promote “Ascendant,” the 37th annual Fashion Show occurring this past Saturday. A native of Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, Lai came to GCC on the recommendation of her uncle, GCC alumni Kevin (Kah) Chan, who found GCC to be the perfect place to absorb American culture and explore career aspirations. Lai will graduate from GCC in May and will be transferring to RIT this fall to pursue a four-year degree in in graphic design.

In addition, GCC sophomore Joana Reiko Sato of Batavia, NY was inducted based on her 3.97 GPA at GCC. Since she was a child growing up in Japan, Sato dreamed of earning a college degree in the United States. After graduating from Tokyo Metropolitan Koge High school in 2015, she was employed as indoor rock climbing instructor for about a year and then enrolled at GCC. As an international student, Sato was honored to share her story at last year’s “East Meets West” Multicultural Communications Club special event. She also participated in the Outdoor Adventure Club and was a resident assistant at College Village. Sato is currently pursuing a Liberal Arts and Science: General Studies Associate Degree and intends to transfer to Colorado State University with a major in Biochemistry. Sato plans to become a veterinary doctor.

Press Release:

National Travel and Tourism week is May 6 – 12, 2018 and we were pleased to join with the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors in declaring it Travel and Tourism week in Wyoming County. The Wyoming County Board of Supervisors will pass an official proclamation recognizing the week at their regular Board meeting on May 8, 2018.

To celebrate, the Chamber & Tourism is running an “I Love Wyoming County” testimonial contest from May 6 – June 1, where everyone is encouraged to write a short story (500 words or less) and/or recommendation about their favorite Wyoming County tourism attraction(s).

Testimonials can be about an amazing dish at one of our restaurants; a brewery that serves delicious craft beer; a wonderful attraction that provides plenty of excitement; a favorite family-fun adventure; that “best” camping spot; or anything we can share with tourists nationally and internationally to tell our story of what makes Wyoming County such a wonderful place to vacation and visit.

Three winners will be selected to receive $100, $75 and $50 Wyoming County Visa Gift Cards. Winners will be drawn on June 8, 2018.

To participate in this exciting contest:

• Visit our website: GoWyomingCountyNY.com and complete the “I Love Wyoming County” form online, or
• Email us your testimonial at: info@gowyomingcountyny.com

“We’re thrilled to celebrate National Tourism Week with the “I Love Wyoming County” testimonial contest, because who knows more about Wyoming County than the businesses, families, residents and fans that live, work and play here,” said Eric Szucs, Director of Tourism and Marketing. “With Letchworth State Park drawing over 700,000 visitors a year, and the attractions, family friendly restaurants, events, art galleries and more – we offer tourists an incredibly rewarding experience in Wyoming County. Through this contest we want to give our residents a voice in sharing what they love best, because they tell the best stories and these are the things we want tourists to know!”

“Tourism is critical to the economic health of our county, and we are very fortunate to have so many tourism businesses in Wyoming County,” said Scott Gardner, President of the Chamber & Tourism office. “Travelers are spending $44 million annually in Wyoming County which generates millions in state and local sales taxes, and the average savings per Wyoming County household from tourism generated taxes is $338. It is a critical and growing segment of our economy and our county’s success.”

There are almost 200 hundred tourism related businesses in Wyoming County. From the natural beauty of Letchworth State Park to the historic landmarks, rural character and agriculture, family friendly attractions, restaurants and lodging, Wyoming County is a true four season destination for outdoor adventure and family fun. Travelers and visitors spend more than $44 million annually, generating $21 million in labor income. Wyoming County sees a return of $5.2 million in state and local sales tax, and the average savings per Wyoming County household from tourism generated taxes is $338.

National Travel and Tourism Week is an annual tradition that was established by a Congressional Resolution in 1983 and first celebrated the following year. This nationwide week of events serves to champion the power of the travel and tourism industry. Travel and tourism is one of America’s largest industries, generating $2.4 trillion in economic output, with $1 trillion spent directly by domestic and international travelers.

According to the US Travel Association, tourism directly generated $164.8 billion in tax revenue for local, state and federal governments in 2017. Travel and tourism is America’s largest services export industry and is one of America’s largest employers. Travel is among the top 10 industries and supported 15.6 million jobs, including 8.8 million directly in the travel industry and 7 million in other industries. One out of every 9 jobs in the U.S. depends on travel and tourism. Each U.S. household would pay $1,300 more in taxes without the tax revenue generated by the travel and tourism industry.

The Wyoming County Chamber & Tourism is the leading membership organization for local and regional growth, advocacy, and connection for Wyoming County’s business community. The Chamber & Tourism’s mission is to serve the members and community; promote and grow the area’s economic and tourism assets; and work collaboratively to create an environment that leads to the success and economic prosperity of Wyoming County. For more information or to become a member please call 585-786-0307 or visit the website at www.wycochamber.org or www.gowyomingcountyny.com

Rape charges land a Pavilion man in lock up.
Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies have arrested 38 year old Jerod Baltz of Sparks Road Pavilion on charges of Rape and Criminal Sexual Act both in the first degree by forcible compulsion.
The alleged rape occurred on March 18th at a Sparks Road residence.
Following arraignment, Baltz was committed in lieu of $25,000 bail to the Genesee County Jail.
He is scheduled for Pavilion Town Court this afternoon.

Lawmen look for driver and identify victim in fatal Geneseo hit and run.
24 year old Nicholas Iannarelli of East Amherst was struck and killed in a hit and run between an unknown vehicle and a pedestrian on Route 63 near Court Street in Geneseo early morning Saturday.
9-1-1 dispatchers received a call from a truck driver who said he observed a person in dark clothing walking in the roadway while he was northbound on Route 63.
Iannarelli was later found deceased in the roadway by Geneseo Police dispatched to the area.
The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the fatal accident and encourage anyone with any information or possible video surveillance of the crash to call the Sheriff’s Office at 585.243.7100.

Near miss with a cop car leads to drunk driving charges for an Attica man.
Attica Police stopped 66 year old Ronald Vallett of Creek Road, Attica late Friday night after he nearly collided with an Attica Police Patrol car.
Officers determined that Vallett was impaired by alcohol and he subsequently provided a breath sample reaching close to twice the legal limit.
Vallett was charged with two counts of DWI, along with failing to yield right of way.
He was released on his own recognizance and is scheduled to reappear in the Attica Village Court on May 7th.

Rochester City Court Judge Leticia Astacio wants to keep getting paid during her suspension.
She was suspended after allegedly trying to buy a gun last month which would violate terms of her probation.
The Commission on Judicial Conduct made the recommendation recently to remove her from office.
Astacio is still being paid her more than $185,000 salary.
Her attorney wrote the state court of appeals last week arguing that she should continue to be paid while suspended.

A cub scout in Leroy is being hailed as a hero.
Although he has never been trained in CPR 10 year old Steven Sanders knew eggz-actly what to when his 3 year old younger brother Troy began choking on a hardboiled egg.
The brothers were watching cartoons Saturday when Troy began choking on his hard boiled breakfast.
Steven immediately started slapping his brothers back with the palm of his hand and dislodged the egg before their mother made it into the room.
The Boy Scouts plan to honor Steven for his heroics.

The victim of a fatal hit and run pedestrian accident in Geneseo has been identified.
Sheriff’s deputies say 24 year old Nicholas Iannarelli of East Amherst was struck and killed early Saturday morning on Route 63 near Court Street in Geneseo.
The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office is asking the public for any information or video surveillance in the area of Route 63. (585-243-7100)
Iannarelli was a former SUNY Geneseo student who may have been in the area for an Alumni Weekend Festival.

One person is being taken to UMMC with injuries suffered in a crash this morning in Bergen.
The mishap occurred near the intersection of West Bergen and Dublin Roads.
National Grid was called to repair a broken utility pole.

Firefighters from two volunteer departments respond to a tractor trailer fire in Bethany.
That fire yesterday afternoon activated volunteers from Bethany and Alexander.
The truck driver escaped the flames unhurt.
The cab of the big rig was destroyed.

Roberta “Bobbi” Norton was recently recognized with a Western New York Educational Service Council Award for Excellence.
Norton is the executive assistant to the superintendent and assistant clerk /secretary to the Board of Education for the Batavia City School District.
Norton has worked for the District for more than 38 years, beginning as a clerical intern in the business office, continuing with positions in schools and administrative offices, and, for the last 10 years, in the superintendent’s office.

Former State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver is in Federal Court in Lower Manhattan today for his corruption re-trial. Silver was flanked by attorneys and told the media heading in that he’s wonderful after being asked how he’s feeling. The Democrat was convicted of a bribery scheme in 2015 but that conviction was later tossed by a judge after the Supreme Court narrowed the legal definition of public corruption. There’s a new defense and prosecution team and a new jury but much of the same evidence is expected to be presented.

Livingston County deputies are searching for the driver who hit and killed a man walking down Route 63.
Authorities learned of the accident from a truck driver passing by the scene early Saturday morning.
Route 63 was shut down for several hours
Deputies said the man killed was in his mid-20’s and may have been visiting the SUNY Geneseo campus for the Alumni weekend.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office

Parental concerns are growing over safety at Alexander Central School.
Recent school board meetings have had some parents square off with board members and the school administration over safety concerns.
School Superintendent Catherine Huber released a statement over the weekend saying student safety is a top concern but parents need to understand the district cannot comment on specific instances involving students or staff.
The budget vote slated for May 15th includes funds to hire a school resource officer.

A tractor trailer catches fire on route 20 in Bethany.
Bethany and Alexander firefighters responded yesterday afternoon.
The truck driver safely escaped the flames. The cab of the big rig was destroyed.

The corruption re-trial of former New York Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver kicks off today. He was convicted of a bribery scheme in 2015. Silver’s conviction was tossed after the U.S. Supreme Court narrowed the legal definition of public corruption. Silver is accused of using his office to hand out favors in return for millions in kickbacks.

Governor Cuomo says more help is on the way to Puerto Rico. During a one day stop to the devastated island this weekend, he said he’s deploying state experts to evaluate the storm battered island’s needs. He’s then dispatching hundreds of SUNY and CUNY student volunteers and workers this summer. Students with construction experience are expected to sign up to help rebuild starting in June. He calls the plan, the New York Stands with Puerto Rico Recovery and Rebuilding Initiative.

Există multe moduri incredibil de erotice și incitante de a face dragoste, dar vizionarea pornografiei poate fi doar una dintre ele. Este o modalitate grozavă de a te distra cu partenerul tău și de a-ți face corpul pompat pentru o experiență sexuală erotică. În plus, acțiunea poate ajuta la ameliorarea stresului și la crearea unei legături distractive și erotice cu persoana iubită.

Este un impuls erotic sigur pentru alții

Internetul este plin de conținut pornografic. Nu este un secret pentru nimeni că vizionarea pornografiei poate fi un mod distractiv și edificator de a face dragoste. Dar pentru unii oameni, actul de a verifica acest material împreună cu partenerul lor poate fi neliniștitor.

Din fericire, un nou studiu de la Frontiers in Psychology a descoperit că cuplurile care urmăresc filme porno împreună sunt mai fericite. Asta nu înseamnă că vizionarea de https://pornofilmexxx.net este o modalitate sigură de a-ți îmbunătăți relația. Cu toate acestea, este o idee bună să urmați câteva instrucțiuni simple.

În special, ar trebui să încercați să găsiți site-uri pozitive pentru sex. De exemplu, CrashPadSeries are videoclipuri cu gemete pline de sex. Sau, dacă sunteți în căutarea unui podcast erotic, dipsea este o alegere excelentă.

Există o mulțime de alte opțiuni erotice de explorat. Chyng Sun, profesor de studii media la Universitatea din New York, a estimat că 36% din tot conținutul de pe internet este pornografie.

Cu toate acestea, deși există multă hype în jurul eroticii, nu trebuie să fie întotdeauna o experiență inconfortabilă. Iată cinci sfaturi pentru a vă ajuta să vă bucurați de beneficiile eroticei fără a vă deteriora relația.

În primul rând, nu vă simțiți presați să vizionați totul. În timp ce cercetarea indică faptul că porno are unele efecte pozitive asupra relațiilor, efectul nu este copleșitor.

În al doilea rând, nu trece cu vederea formatele non-vizuale, care vă permit dvs. și partenerului dvs. să vă răsfățați cu teme sexy în intimitatea propriei case. Acestea sunt deosebit de utile pentru a genera idei despre cum să vă îmbunătățiți viața intimă.

În cele din urmă, nu ezita să-ți întrebi partenerul ce părere are despre porno. Acest lucru poate fi dificil, dar este important să știți ce cred ei, deoarece porno poate fi un subiect sensibil.

Continutul XXX este un combustibil pentru excitare pentru a începe o experiență sexuală

Una dintre cele mai bune modalități de a-ți îmbunătăți viața sexuală este să vizionezi filme porno împreună cu partenerul tău. Pe lângă faptul că este distractiv, vă poate ajuta să vă conectați unul cu celălalt la un nivel mai profund.

Mai multe studii au arătat că pornografia poate îmbunătăți capacitatea unui cuplu de a interacționa unul cu celălalt. Acest lucru este valabil mai ales pentru relațiile care implică sex.

Pornolul nu este un bun reprezentant al sexului real. Deși poate fi o activitate plăcută pentru unii oameni, nu este pentru toată lumea. Unii bărbați care au vizionat cantități excesive de porno s-au confruntat cu disfuncție erectilă.

Există o mulțime de hype în jurul porno-ului ca activitate sexuală, dar consumul de porno nu este întotdeauna răspunsul. Poate fi, de asemenea, în detrimentul unei relații.

Sexul ar trebui să fie despre realizarea unei legături sexuale cu partenerul tău. Cu toate acestea, mass-media descrie adesea sexul ca pe o experiență heterosexuală. A avea propriul corp expus partenerului tău este intimidant pentru mulți bărbați.

Un studiu recent al Institutului pentru Studii Familiei a constatat că bărbații care au urmărit filme porno au mai puțină materie cenușie în striat, o parte a creierului implicată în plăcere. Cei care nu urmăresc porno sunt probabil să elibereze mai mulți hormoni în corpul lor atunci când fac sex cu partenerul lor.

Cu toate acestea, există o mulțime de motive pentru a evita pornografia și activitățile conexe. Una dintre ele este că pornografia poate duce la o serie de atitudini dăunătoare despre sex și corp.

Vizionarea pornografiei poate fi o activitate erotică distractivă de împărtășit cu partenerul tău, dar trebuie să fii atent la cât de mult vizionezi. În mod ideal, doriți să faceți check-in înainte, în timpul și după, pentru a vă asigura că încă vă distrați.

Filmele porno pot reduce stresul

Dacă vă gândiți să vizionați porno cu partenerul dvs., este o idee bună să vă cercetați. Pornolul are o mulțime de efecte secundare negative.

De exemplu, te poate face mai predispus la depresie și poate interfera cu relația ta. Și este, de asemenea, posibil să fii dependent de pornografie.

În timp ce unii terapeuți sexuali recomandă să vizionați mass-media sexuală pentru a obține o idee despre ceea ce vă excită, alții cred că poate fi o modalitate eficientă de a vă ajuta să vă revigorați intimitatea.

Mulți oameni folosesc porno ca ajutor pentru masturbare. Dar altora nu le place ideea. Ei ar putea să vadă asta ca fiind împotriva religiei lor. Cu toate acestea, dacă vă puteți gestiona îndemnurile, poate fi un instrument util în lupta voastră împotriva disfuncției erectile.

În plus, unor cupluri le place să vizioneze împreună conținut pentru adulți. Potrivit Jessa Zimmerman, un terapeut sexual certificat AASECT, multe cupluri consideră că este distractiv să privească și să se bucure de experiență.

Filmele pornografice pot fi încurajatoare, precum și o sursă de stima de sine scăzută. De aceea este important să vorbim despre asta. Tu și partenerul tău ar trebui să fii întotdeauna sinceri cu privire la felul în care te simți în legătură cu activitatea.

Unii oameni se tem că pornografia îi va face să simtă că își trădează partenerii. Aceasta poate fi o problemă reală. De fapt, poate submina încrederea pe care tu și partenerul tău o împărtășești.

Unii cercetători au descoperit că vizionarea pornografiei poate duce la mai multă satisfacție sexuală și la creșterea intimității într-o relație. Alții au descoperit că te poate face mai puțin mulțumit de viața ta sexuală.

Ca rezultat, ar trebui să vă înregistrați înainte, în timpul și după porno pe care îl vizionați. Asigurați-vă că comunicați despre ceea ce faceți și respectați limitele partenerului dvs.

Este o activitate erotică distractivă de împărtășit cu partenerul tău

Când vine vorba de a face dragoste, vizionarea pornografiei este un mod incredibil de erotic și interesant de a face acest lucru. Poate fi o idee bună să îl vizionezi împreună cu partenerul tău, dar există câteva lucruri de luat în considerare înainte de a începe.

Cel mai important lucru de reținut este că vizionarea de filme porno nu este întotdeauna un lucru rău. De fapt, există o mulțime de cercetări care sugerează că poate avea un efect pozitiv asupra relației tale.

Un studiu, de exemplu, a constatat că pornografia a crescut dorința de sex IRL cu celălalt semnificativ. Un altul a descoperit că pornografia a avut un impact pozitiv asupra acceptării homosexualității. Indiferent dacă este doar un mod distractiv de a face sex sau ceva mai serios, există o mulțime de modalități de a profita la maximum de porno.

Pornolul poate fi folosit și pentru a vă îmbunătăți masturbarea. Folosirea pornografiei ca ajutor pentru masturbare vă poate oferi o mulțumire instantanee și, de asemenea, vă poate ajuta să reconstruiți căile chimice care duc la excitare.

O analiză din 2019 a studiilor privind impactul pornografiei asupra cuplurilor a găsit puține dovezi că aceasta are efecte negative. Cu toate acestea, mulți oameni încă se simt incomod când îl vizionează împreună. Din fericire, există câteva modalități de a trece prin conversație fără să te simți prea zguduit.

Cel mai important, ar trebui să discutați despre sentimentele tale cu partenerul tău. Dacă sunteți supărat de utilizarea pornografiei de către partenerul dvs., asigurați-vă că o menționați.

De asemenea, rețineți că porno nu este singurul mediu erotic de acolo. De exemplu, erotica audio și poveștile erotice scrise sunt alte medii sexuale de care ar trebui să fii conștient.

Să-ți faci partenerul să urmărească porno poate fi dificil, așa că este o idee bună să aduci în discuție conceptul atunci când ai timp să-l discuti.

Press Release:

Cougars Split Doubleheader at OCC after Extra-Inning Matinee Loss

If you needed any convincing on just how well the Genesee Community College baseball team’s past couple of weeks have gone, just look at the National Junior College Athletic Association Division-III West Section baseball standings.

The Cougars have the best record in their last 10 appearances and only nationally-ranked current No. 5 Niagara County Community College has done as well. That record could have easily have been 9-1, but Genesee lost a heartbreaker in the 11th inning after rallying from behind to take the lead.

In the second contest against Onondaga Community College, Genesee got a pair of runs in the fifth inning after the Lazers took the lead in the fourth. Onondaga re-took the lead and the teams played four innings of scoreless ball until the Lazers got the winning run in the 11th.

In the first game, the Cougars plated two runs in the top of the seventh to break a 3-3 tie on their way to victory.

Colin Noeth went the distance from the mound with four strikeouts and two earned runs in allowing six hits.

Leading the way up front was Shannon Folkes and Harrison Lourens with a pair of hits each. Folkes stroked a triple, while Lourens had a double and a run. All three of the team’s RBI also came from the pair with Folkes collecting a pair.

L’Shandry Kirindongo, Bryant Fontanez, and Andrew Shapiro added one hit and one run apiece, while Edgardo Jurado also scored for the Cougars.

The Cougars deserved better in the 3-2 loss after out-hitting the Lazers 9-7. Three Genesee players registered a pair of hits each that included Kirindongo, Peter Bradford, and Justin Taveras, with the latter scoring one of the Cougar runs and Lourens the other.

Rounding out the hitters for Genesee were Deion Rosalia, Shapiro, and Jakob MacLeod; with the latter also getting the start on the mound with seven strikeouts, two earned runs in allowing seven hits after seven innings.

Jayson Libert surrendered three hits with one strikeout in going the rest of the way. Kirindongo had the team’s lone RBI and Braford the team’s lone extra-base hit with a double.

Men’s Lacrosse Team to Face Monroe for Regional Title April 28

The Genesee Community College men’s lacrosse team learned who their region and district opponent will be yesterday after Monroe Community College held on to beat Mercyhurst North East, 9-5 April 25.

The Cougars will now face the Tribunes in Syracuse, April 28 with a 1:30 p.m. start time for a chance to return to the men’s lacrosse junior college national championship also to be held in Syracuse at Lazer Stadium May 12-13.

The championship game will be live-streamed from Syracuse via Onondaga Community College’s athletics online channel found at the following link: https://bit.ly/2pEIT9N

The Cougars were in the national spotlight April 25 with the National Junior College Athletic Association naming Cougar Jordan Brennan as its national men’s lacrosse player of the week. The honor for Brennan came just one day after being named the NJCAA Region-III Male Athlete of the Week, April 24.

Brennan became the second Genesee player to earn national player honors after Andrew Forte captured the honor earlier in the season. The two national player weekly recognitions for Genesee are currently the most by any men’s lacrosse team nationally.

In their only meeting of the season, Genesee beat Monroe 15-10 in the Cougars’ opening game of the season in Rochester. The Tribunes had leads of 3-1 and 4-2 before Genesee rallied for the win. The Cougars out-shot Monroe by a more than 2-1 margin at 49-24.

On the overall season, Genesee averages nearly 20 goals-per-game, while Monroe is just over 16 goals-per-game. Although the Cougars average more shots-per-game at 54-43, the Tribunes score at a higher-average-percentage at 38-36.

The goalies with the most minutes played this season are Garrett Lazore from Genesee and Mark Campbell from Monroe. The latter holds the edge in goals-against average at 5.73-to-6.24 and also save percentage at 67-54 percent.

Up front, the Cougars are led by Jordan Brennan and Kevin McParlene, who both have 59 points; Jason Chiodo in goals with 40; and Brennan in assists with 28.

Monroe’s Nick Kallio is the Tribunes’ team leader in points (75), goals (35) and assists (40). Chiodo has a team-high 97 shots, while Monroe’s Jared George leads the Tribunes with 79.

The top groundball getters for each team include Forte (129) for Genesee and Adam Witscheber (51) for Monroe, while the faceoff leaders are Reed Perestam (80) for Monroe and Forte (155) for Genesee.

Mark Jagord
GCC Sports Information

Alexander School supports staffing a resource officer.
In a statement released by the Alexander Central School District addressing concerns about issues of school safety they indicated that the district has already set aside money in the proposed 2018-19 school budget to hire a School Resource Officer.
It has become a priority for Genesee County Sheriff William Sheron to convince all local school districts to hire School Resource Officers.
Sheron said. “There is no price we can put on our children’s lives.”
The budget vote is on May 15th and the district will hold a public hearing on the budget proposal on May 2nd.

Getting ready to play ball at Dwyer Stadium.
Crews have been busy this week making improvements to the infield and outfield of Dwyer in preparation for the new season and new era of Muckdogs baseball.
Chuck Hoover is with Batavia Turf

Crews are re-setting the pitcher’s mound and laser leveling the infield.
The Muckdogs home opener is scheduled for June 18th.

A Batavia dad has been arrested for allegedly allowing his two-year old son to walk the streets alone.
Sheriff’s Deputies arrested and charged 36 year old David King Jr. with Endangering the Welfare of a child.
Deputies say King apparently fell asleep after taking prescribed medication and did not notice that his son walked out of the house and was wondering the street by himself.

Congratulations to Law Day Observance and awards recipients.
The 2018 Law Day Observance & Criminal Justice Awards recipients were announced this week at an annual dinner held at the Batavia Country Club.
The Kiwanis Criminal Justice Award Recipients for 2018 are Sergeant Bradley Mazur of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and Sergeant Daniel Coffey of the Batavia Police Department.
The Charles L. Mancuso Mock Trial Award went to the Oakfield-Alabama High School Mock Trial Team.

The Bills have the quarterback they wanted.
Buffalo traded up to seventh overall and snag Josh Allen.
The Wyoming quarterback is a towering six-foot-five, 237-pound power pocket passer.
The Bills also traded up with the Ravens to pick 19-year-old Virginia Tech linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, who’s the first teenager to be drafted in more than a decade.

It is National Prescription Drug take back day.
Genesee County residents can drop off un-used prescription meds at both the Batavia and LeRoy Police Departments, or to Deputies at the Pembroke Town Highway barns on Routes 5 and 77.
The National Take Back runs today from 10 to 2.

Photo Courtesy: The Batavian

Getting ready to play ball at Dwyer Stadium.
Crews have been busy this week making improvements to the infield and outfield of Dwyer in preparation for the new season and new era of Muckdogs baseball.
Chuck Hoover is with Batavia Turf

Crews are re-setting the pitcher’s mound and laser leveling the infield.
The Muckdogs home openers in June 18th.

Flu rates in Western New York are the lowest they’ve been in months. According to the state’s newest numbers, confirmed cases of the flu dropped 23-percent from the week before.

A Batavia dad has been arrested for allegedly allowing his two-year old son to walk the streets alone.
Batavia Police charged 36 year old David King Jr. with Endangering the Welfare of a child.
Police say King apparently fell asleep after taking prescribed medication and did not notice that his son walked out of the house and was wondering the street by himself.

Batavia’s Business Improvement District has handed out its annual awards.
The BID’s volunteers of the year were Derik Kane and WBTA technician Jeff Gillard. Business of the Year Honors went to: Adam Miller Toy and Bike, celebrating their 100th year and to the Genesee Valley Penny Saver.

The Bills have the quarterback they wanted.
Buffalo traded up to seventh overall and snag Josh Allen.
The Wyoming quarterback is a towering six-foot-five, 237-pound power pocket passer. The Bills also traded up with the Ravens to pick 19-year-old Virginia Tech linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, who’s the first teenager to be drafted in more than a decade.

Tomorrow is National Prescription Drug take back day.
Locally, you can drop off un-used prescription meds at the Batavia Police Department, downtown, the Sheriff’s Office on Park Road or the Pembroke Town Highway barns.

Press Release:

On Saturday, April 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Genesee County law enforcement agencies and the Drug Enforcement Administration will give the public an opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.

Bring your pills for disposal to:

Pembroke Town Hall, Rt. 5 at Rt. 77 Pembroke

– received by Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies

Batavia Police Department Headquarters, 10 W. Main St. – Batavia

– received by Batavia Police Officers

LeRoy Police Department Headquarters, 3 W. Main St. – LeRoy

– received by LeRoy Police Officers

Only pills and other solids, like patches, can be brought to the collection sites—liquids and needles or other sharps will not be accepted.  The service is free and anonymous; no questions asked.

This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue.  Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs.  The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health shows year after year that the majority of misused and abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including someone else’s medication being stolen from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines—flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash—both pose potential safety and health hazards.

Press Release:

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today voted for a bill to reauthorize Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) programs for five years, providing long-term stability for the nation’s aviation community. This legislation makes no changes to the enhanced pilot training hours that Buffalo area families who lost loved ones during the Flight 3407 crash advocated for, which became law in the Airline Safety and FAA Extension Act of 2010.

“For the next five years we will not have to worry about Congress watering down important pilot training requirements, giving us much needed certainty,” said Collins. “The families of Flight 3407 have been impressive and tireless advocates for flight safety reforms, and we will continue to work with the Trump administration to make sure there are no changes to these hours. Because of the work of the families, America’s flying public can have confidence in the skills of their pilots and we will do everything in our power to keep it that way.”

This legislation ensures our system remains the safest in the world for air travelers by enhancing maintenance procedures for aircrafts. Additionally, it requires the FAA to direct that all new passenger aircrafts include a second barrier of entry to cockpits within one year of the enactment of this legislation.
Bipartisan disaster relief reforms are also included, providing communities with resources to take action before a disaster occurs to pre-empt damage.

Collins added: “Since I was elected to Congress, I’ve made it a priority to keep Americans safe in our skies. This legislation is a win as we continue to advocate for reforms that enhance flight safety.”

For more information on H.R. 4, the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, click here.

Press Release:

Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Nolan Donald, 19, of Lyndonville, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute and being an unlawful user in possession of a firearm. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth T. Molisani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, between February 17, 2018, and April 18, 2018, the defendant posted videos and photos to the social media application “Snapchat” in which he appeared to be in possession of a pistol and large quantities of marijuana, and using what appeared to be marijuana and prescription medicine.

On April 18, 2018, Special Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives executed a federal search warrant at Donald’s North Lyndonville Road residence. Agents recovered a pistol with an obliterated serial number, which was loaded with eight rounds of ammunition, and a 12-gauge shotgun. A small quantity of suspected marijuana, suspected edible marijuana cookies, plastic baggies and ammunition for a shotgun were also recovered.

The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder and was released on conditions pending a detention hearing on April 27, 2018.

The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ashan Benedict, New York Field Division.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

The Downtown Batavia Business Improvement District held their annual BID breakfast and awards ceremony this morning.

This years’ awards went to Jeff Gillard and Derik Kane.

Businesses of the year awards went to Adam Miller Toy & Bicycle and the Genesee Valley Penny Saver.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) will be hosting a special roundtable discussion with Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro, called ‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY.’ The discussion offers different perspectives on how our businesses, organizations and individuals can better treat our residents with special needs.

Dutchess County Executive Marcus J. Molinaro said, “I thank Assemblyman Hawley for embracing the ‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY’ initiative we’ve found so successful in Dutchess County, and I hope communities throughout his district will continue to answer our call to action. Each New Yorker deserves to treated based upon their own unique abilities and potential, and we in Dutchess County seek to embrace all residents of all abilities. I thank the communities that have chosen to ‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY,’ and I look forward to seeing the trend continue throughout our state.”

The event will take place at the ARC of Genesee Orleans located at 64 Walnut St. in Batavia beginning at 2 p.m. on May 3. Residents who wish to attend are asked to please call Hawley’s district office ahead of time to register at (585) 589-5780.

“I am pleased to host this important roundtable discussion with County Executive Marc Molinaro, and I look forward to bringing in community stakeholders to talk about ways to foster a more inclusive and welcoming environment for our residents with special needs,” Hawley said. “I am hopeful we can implement many of the ideas and solutions that are part of this program, and I am eager to have a productive discussion.”

WHO: Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia)
Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro

WHAT: ‘Think Differently’ Roundtable

WHEN: Thursday, May 3
2 p.m.

WHERE: ARC of Genesee Orleans
64 Walnut St., Batavia, NY

Press Release:

The Kiwanis Club of Batavia, Genesee County Bar Association, and the Genesee County Magistrates & Court Clerks Association Announce the Recipients of the 2018 Law Day Observance & Criminal Justice Awards

Kiwanis Club President Matt Landers and Genesee County Bar Association President Peter Casey announced the awards during an annual dinner held at Batavia Country Club on Thursday, April 26, 2018. The speaker at the dinner was the Honorable John Curran, Supreme Court Justice of the Appellate Division, Fourth Department.

Kiwanis Criminal Justice Award
The Kiwanis Club of Batavia Criminal Justice Award is presented to a member or members of the community, law enforcement, or a criminal justice agency serving the citizens of Genesee County whose exceptional career achievements and conscientiousness to citizenship have demonstrated a spirit of selfless public service or demonstrated an act of exceptional valor or heroism.

The 2018 Award Recipients are:
Sergeant Bradley D. Mazur, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office
Sergeant Mazur started his career with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office on January 31, 1999, as a Deputy Sheriff assigned to the Road Patrol. As a Sergeant, Brad’s primary assignment is to supervise the counties local drug task force. In Brad’s first year supervising the Task Force, they investigated a record number of cases since the Task Force was formed in 1989, for the sale and distribution of illegal drugs within Genesee County. These tireless investigations resulted in several arrests against those who use and sell drugs on the streets and neighborhoods of Genesee County. Brad, with his work in the Task Force, has proven to be a valuable source of information that assists in the apprehension and conviction of individuals involved in other felony crimes within Genesee County to include attempted murder, robbery, burglary, and assaults. Brad was also a Field Training Officer (FTO) in the Sheriff’s Office, which is a valuable position that helps train our newest Deputies as they are coming out of the academy and learning how to handle calls for service. Many officers look to Brad for guidance when dealing with difficult cases, especially when the cases involve drugs. With Sergeant Mazur’s guidance, the Drug Task Force is already looking to have another banner year. In 2002, Sergeant Mazur received the “Officer of the Year” Award and has received two Commendation Awards. Sergeant Mazur is most deserving of this award and recognition for his dedication and hard work towards protecting the citizens in Genesee County as a Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputy. Sergeant Mazur was nominated for this award by Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr.

Sergeant Daniel J. Coffey, Batavia Police Department
Sergeant Coffey has been instrumental in creating quality law enforcement training for the City of Batavia Police Department and other agencies in the County. Dan is a general topics instructor, firearms instructor, taser instructor and chemical breath test instructor. He has developed or helped develop training protocols throughout the county that have ensured law enforcement officers are trained to the highest standard possible. Dan continues to improve himself as a trainer and police officer regulary attending training symposiums and leadership schools. Not only has Sgt. Coffey been an asset to the City of Batavia as a police officer but he also spends a lot of his “free time” volunteering for the Town of Batavia Fire Department and is an instructor for Genesee County Emergency Management. Dan exemplifies what a public servant is and for that he should be recognized. Sergeant Daniel Coffey was nominated for this award by Chief Shawn Heubusch.

Charles L. Mancuso Mock Trial Award
The “Charles L. Mancuso Award” was presented to the members of the Oakfield Alabama High School Mock Trial Team as winners of the 2018 GLOW (Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties) District Competition in the New York State Bar Association High School Mock Trial Tournament. The award reads “Dedicated to the Memory of an Outstanding Attorney-Citizen”, Mr. Mancuso, a Batavia lawyer, served as coordinator of the local competition until his untimely death 11 years ago. The Oakfield Alabama High School team members honored at the dinner include: Logan Cadieux, Noah Gray, Ryan Manges, Justina Pruski, Aiden Cornelius, John Igoe, Jr., Nick Munger, Alison Woodward, Colin Graham, Dylan Maier, Derek Pruski, Josiah Yantz, Coach Peter Beuler, and Attorney Advisor Melissa Cianfrini. Coordinator of the local Mock Trial Program, Kristie DeFreze, and Genesee County Bar Association President Peter Casey presented the award.

Governor accuses Immigration Enforcement Officers of illegal tactics, threatens lawsuit.
Governor Cuomo is threatening to Sue ICE.
Cuomo believes ICE agents are threatening illegal immigrants using illegal tactics during raids and arrests.

Cuomo’s criticism of ICE yesterday comes a day after the feds arrested a man inside a Supreme Court building on Staten Island.
The federal agency responded saying Cuomo’s disregard for the rule of law is a slap in the face to those whose mission is upholding the laws.

The ball field at Dwyer Stadium gets prepped like the pros.
In preparation for the 2018 baseball season crews from Batavia Turf and DuraEdge have been out on the field at Dwyer Stadium working diligently this week get it ready for professional level play.
Chuck Hoover of Batavia turf spoke with our news partner The Batavian while working on the Dwyer infield…

Hoover said by Major League standards, the pitcher’s mound should be 10 inches higher than home plate which was a little under the mark.
Hoover added that an overcoat will be added to the warning tracks that he described as “pretty red”.
Local high schools will be able to start playing on the field soon and the Batavia Muckdogs open their season June 18.

Batavia man accused of dosing off while toddler wanders away.
36 year old David King Jr. of Main Street Batavia was arrested after Deputies responded to a call for a 2 year old child wandering around Main Street in Batavia.
King is accused of falling asleep after taking prescribed medication allowing his 2 year old son to walk out of the home and wander the street alone.
He was charged with Endangering the Welfare of a Child and was given an appearance ticket for May 21st in Town Court.

State Police have arrested a Rochester-area man for an Allegheny County gun store burglary.
Troopers say they arrested Michael Argento for robbing the Shongo General Store in the Town of Willing last month.
He and two others are accused of stealing 18 guns, five pistols and 13 long guns.
Argento is behind bars on $100,000 bail and police are still trying to find the two other suspects.
Surveillance photos of the other suspects and contact information for law enforecment can be found here.

The Bills have a new hope for a franchise QB, but he doesn’t come controversy free.
New Bills QB Josh Allen says he was young and dumb when he sent some controversial tweets.
The tweets from Allen five-plus years ago appear to use the n-word but he says some of those were pop culture references.
General Manager Brandon Beane says he’s a really good kid and that will become evident.
Allen apologized for the tweets, saying that’s not the real him and he doesn’t have an ounce of hate in his body.

Governor Cuomo is threatening legal action if the practices of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents don’t change. Cuomo believes ICE agents are threatening illegal immigrants using illegal tactics during raids and arrests. Cuomo’s criticism of ICE yesterday comes a day after the feds arrested a man inside a Supreme Court building on Staten Island. The federal agency responded saying Cuomo’s disregard for the rule of law is a slap in the face to those whose mission is upholding the laws.

A Batavia man faces a felony charge following an incident at Target.
34 year old Samuel Oddo was arrested for allegedly stealing over 1000 dollars in merchandise from the store.
Oddo was charged with a felony count of Grand Larceny and was released with an appearance ticket for Batavia Town Court.

The Defense sttorney for a former Wyoming County sheriff’s deputy are apparently not going to deny their client is the killer.
The attorneys are expected to use extreme emotional disturbance as a defense for 60 year old Joseph Mlyniec of Perry.
Mlyniec is accused of shooting and killing Robert Irvine the Third to cover up allegations that he sexually abused troubled boys.
Mlyniec recently resigned from the Perry Town Board while being held without bail for murder in Wyoming County.

The Bills could still be looking to trade up before tonight’s NFL Draft.
The Bills have the 12th and 22nd overall picks but many speculate they would be willing to give up a lot for a shot at Wyoming quarterback Josh Allen.
ESPN that Bills GM Brandon Beane said they could get the number-two pick without giving away too much in the future.
Also, Beane said they might not need to go that high to get a franchise quarterback.

Press Release:

The Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) out of SP Amity are investigating a burglary at Shongo General Store, 2953 Hawks Road, Willing, NY. On March 21, 2018 from 2-5 A.M. the unidentified suspect(s) forcefully entered the store and took thirteen long guns and five handguns.

**On April 25, 2018, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation arrested one of the suspects involved in the Shongo General Store burglary, Michael R Argento, 31 of Greece, NY for Burglary 2nd degree and additional charges are pending. This arrest was a result of a search warrant executions at two residences, Argento’s residence in Greece and a seasonal residence in Willing, NY. The two other suspects are still being sought at this time. Argento was arraigned and remanded to Allegany County Jail on $100,000 cash bail.

ATF, NSSF offer up to $5,000 for information about the burglary of Shongo General Store FFL
Buffalo, NY –The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) have offered a combined reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the burglary of firearms from federally licensed firearms dealer.

Further investigation of the area revealed photographs obtained at a gas station/store just over the border in Genesee, PA. The individuals shown are believed to be in connection with the recent burglary at the Shongo General Store. The two suspects are believed to be operating a white sedan possibly a Chevrolet as pictured.

If you have any information on the suspect(s) or this investigation contact the NYSP at 585-268-7085 or ATF at 1-888-ATF-GUNS (888-283-4867), email ATFTips@atf.gov.

New York State Police BCI are working with ATF, NSSF and the Pennsylvania State Police- SP Coudersport. This is still an ongoing criminal investigation.

Zachery Zinck had a solid performance from the mound against Onondaga with 13 strikouts (photo credit: GCC Athletics/Curtis Kreutter)

Press Release:

Red-Hot Cougar Baseball Team Continues to Roll

For some Friday the 13th is associated with bad luck, but for the Genesee Community College baseball team it began a stretch of wins that has now totals seven of the last eight contests for an 88 winning percentage during that span. But even more importantly, all seven are region wins and now only two teams from the nine-team National Junior College Athletic Association’s Region-III Western Section standings have more than the Cougars.

The latest pair of Cougar wins came at the expense of current West Region-III second-place Onondaga. In the first game of the twin bill, Genesee posted a run in every other inning of their six at-bats for a 3-1 win. In the matinee game, the Cougars had a big six-run third inning that powered them to a 10-4 win.

Justin Baly led the team in hits in the first game and then co-led the team in the second with L’Shandry Kirindongo. Over the two games the pair combined for five runs, three RBI and six hits – with three going for extra bases.

The team’s pitching was also a highlight as three pitchers combined to allow just nine hits with 19 strikeouts over the pair of contests. Zachery Zinck got the win in the first game with 13 strikeouts and allowed just a pair of hits in going the distance. Tyler Prospero went almost six innings in the second contest with four strikeouts for the win, while Jayson Libert threw the last four outs with a pair of strikeouts to earn a save.

Offensively over the two games Genesee plated 17 hits with seven going for extra bases that included four homeruns. Kirindongo had two of those with the other two courtesy of Shannon Folkes and Jakob MacLeod.

The Cougars got nine hits in the 3-1 win with Baly leading the way with a pair, one of which was a double. Deion Rosalia knocked in a run with a triple, while the other two RBI were courtesy of shots over the wall by Kirindongo and Folkes. Also joining the hit parade were Justin Taveras, Edgardo Jurado, Bryant Fontanez and MacLeod.

Genesee plated eight hits in the 10-5 win with Baly and Kirindongo combining for half the team’s hits with a pair each. Kirindongo had a double to go with another homerun and a pair of RBI, while Baly scored a pair of runs.

MacLeod had the loudest bat of the game with a grand slam to pick up four RBI. The other three hits came from Shurburnie Jonis, Folkes and Rosalia, with the latter also racking up a pair of RBI.

The 10 runs came from just two innings with six in the third and four in the sixth. In all, eight different Cougars scored runs that included Kirindongo, Folkes, Rosalia, MacLeod, Taveras, Jonis and a pair each from Baly and Nate Darwin.

Michaela Cater from the golf team and L’Shandry Kirindongo from the baseball team

Cougar Athletes of the Week Announced

The Genesee Community College’s athletes of the week for the period ending April 22 are Michaela Cater from the golf team and L’Shandry Kirindongo from the baseball team.

Cater competed in a pair of golf outings for the Cougars and was the top female golfer in one event and finished second in the other. Cater carded a 119 in the upstate NY tournament with seven other teams hosted by SUNY Adirondack at the Hiland Golf Club in Queensbury, where she was the female medalist on April 21. The next day at the Batavia Country Club, Cater was seven shots back of the lead from Jamestown Community College’s golfer with a 117 that was two shots better than her previous day.

Kirindongo led the Cougars last week in taking three of four games from Broome Community College with 10 hits, five RBI, five runs and three stolen bases. Of his 10 hits, three were doubles in helping his team to three Region-III wins. Kirindongo’s best game of the four was the first in the series where he went 4-for-4 at the plate for almost half of the team’s nine hits, scored one-third of the team’s nine runs with three, added an RBI, stole a pair of bases and plated a pair of doubles of his four hits in a 9-4 win at Broome.

Brennan Named NJCAA National Player of the Week

Genesee Community College’s men’s lacrosse player Jordan Brennan was named National Junior College Athletic Association Men’s Lacrosse Player of the Week jus one day after being named the NJCAA Region-III Male Athlete of the Week.

Brennan took turns last week in being the team’s leading goal-getter and then being the team’s leading set-up man in a pair of wins for No. 3 Genesee. Against Tompkins-Cortland, Brennan out-scored the entire 10th ranked team in the country with six goals and added an assist for a seven-point outing. The sophomore followed that up with a six-point game against Herkimer with a team-leading four helpers. For the week, Brennan scored eight goals from nine shots on net, while adding seven groundballs along the way.

Mark Jagord
GCC Sports Information

Press Release:

What: GCC Nursing Alumni Hosts Scholarship Fundraiser: The Gatsby Gala

When: Friday, May 4, 2018 at 5:30 p.m.

Where: Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel ~ 8315 Park Road, Batavia, NY 14020

Who: All are invited to support the Nursing Scholarship!

Background:
Genesee Community College’s Nursing Alumni Committee invites the entire community to kick off National Nurses Week at the Batavia Downs on Friday, May 4, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. at the first annual Gatsby Gala to support a brand new GCC Nursing Alumni Scholarship.

The newly created scholarship opportunity will help future Nursing Program students to mitigate financial obstacles to student success.

The event will open at 5:30 p.m. for guests to register. A delicious sit-down dinner with a cash bar will begin at 6 p.m. during which, Emcee Scott Gardner, President of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce will introduce GCC’s Director of the Nursing Program Laurel Sanger; Chase Hughes of Buffalo, NY who will testify to the difference qualified and passionate nurses made for him and his family; and Jennifer Sonricker of Warsaw, NY who will share her journey battling her daughter’s cancer.

At 7:15 p.m. all guests have chances to win big with door prizes and a cash raffle! The evening will conclude with a beautiful dessert and dancing the night away to the DJ talents of students from GCC’s radio station 90.7 WGCC.

Tickets are on sale now! Reserve yours online at https://www.genesee.edu/home/offices/alumni/alumni-events/gatsbygala/. You can also contact the Alumni Affairs Office at alumni@genesee.edu directly. Tickets to the Gatsby Gala are on sale two tickets for $100 and all proceeds go directly to the GCC Nursing Alumni Scholarship

There are additional opportunities available to sponsor Nursing Program scholarships at many levels. For online details visit https://www.genesee.edu/home/offices/alumni/alumni-events/gatsbygala/ which offers commitments of $100 – $3,000 and also includes In-kind Support for those wishing to customize their sponsorship. All sponsorship levels include a variety of benefits from free advertising to photos, and GCC Foundation recognition.

For more information, contact Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs Jennifer Wakefield at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6265, or via email at jgwakefield@genesee.edu.

Additional Details: https://www.genesee.edu/home/offices/alumni/alumni-events/gatsbygala/ and http://news.genesee.edu/news/2018/04/19/gcc-nursing-alumni-host-gatsby-gala

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today criticized Gov. Cuomo’s attempt to use his official position to turn private insurance companies, banks and other financial institutions against the National Rifle Association (NRA). Last week, the governor directed the Department of Financial Services to urge certain financial institutions to examine and possibly cease their relationship with the NRA. This follows the governor’s attacks on congressional Republicans and national support for the Second Amendment advocacy group.

“The governor’s alienation of law-abiding citizens continues as now he is using his office to leverage private businesses against the NRA and its members,” Hawley said. “It’s an absolute overreach and clear abuse of power when the governor sidesteps the public by unilaterally using his office to attack groups and their members who have done wrong except believe in liberty and constitutional rights. One million New Yorkers and prominent businesses have fled the state since Gov. Cuomo took office and sadly he seems content with that reality.”

Matthew R. Ballard

Press Release:

What: GCC’s History Club Presents: Orleans County Historian, Matthew Ballard “Fear of the Unknown”

When: Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at 7 p.m. (rescheduled from 12/6/17)

Where: Genesee Community College ~ Batavia Campus ~ Room T102, Conable Technology Building

Who: This event is free and open to the public.

Background: As part of the Historical Horizons series, the History Club at Genesee Community College invites the public to the Batavia Campus on Wednesday, May 2, 2018 at 7 p.m. to hear Orleans County Historian Matthew R. Ballard, MLS present “Fear of the Unknown: Creating the Illegal Immigrant in 19th Century America”.

Immigration to the United States is a relative topic in current events; however, the establishment of the “illegal immigrant” only dates back to the turn of the 20th century. In the earliest years of immigration, Europeans were accepted without restriction, but an influx of new immigrants during the latter half of the 19th century raised concerns about political impacts on American society. Uncertainty and unfounded fears created excessive restrictions focused on limiting access to specific ethnic/ racial groups, religious groups, the disabled, the infirmed and those likely to become a “public charge”.

For further information visit https://gcchistoricalhorizons.wordpress.com, or contact Marketing Communications Associate Director Donna Rae Sutherland at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6616, or via email: dsutherland@genesee.edu.

Additional Details: http://news.genesee.edu/news/2018/01/03/gcc-announces-historical-horizons-spring-2018-lecture-series

FAA investigating helicopter crash in Orleans County as pilot remains hospitalized.
A Waterport man remains in guarded condition at Strong Memorial Hospital after crashing his helicopter in Orleans County.
64 year old Alan Heard of Waterport suffered severe burns to his head and chest when his homemade “mosquito” helicopter crashed approximately 10 minutes after taking off yesterday from the Gaines Valley Airport in Carlton.
Fellow Waterport resident Mark Bennett who stopped to watch the ultra-light chopper flyby, then witnessed it drop from the sky, crash and burst into flames.
Bennet helped Heard get out of the fiery wreckage and snuffed out flames that were burning the pilot’s clothing.
The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office said the FAA has secured parts of the aircraft and recovered a video camera which may contain footage of the crash.

The Defense council for a former Wyoming County deputy are apparently not going to deny their client is the killer.
The attorneys are expected to use extreme emotional disturbance as a defense for 60 year old Joseph Mlyniec of Perry.
Mlyniec is accused of shooting and killing Robert Irvine the Third to cover up allegations that he sexually abused troubled boys.
The defense is apparently not going to say he didn’t do it, but use his state of mind as a defense for why he did.
Mlyniec recently resigned from the Perry Town Board while being held without bail for murder in Wyoming County.

Drop in Influenza rates leads to lifting Visitor Restrictions at local hospitals.
As confirmed flu cases decline throughout our area, visitor restrictions have been lifted at all Rochester Regional Health hospitals including Rochester General and UMMC in Batavia.

Hawley calls out Cuomo for targeting supporters of the second amendment.
Last week, the governor directed the Department of Financial Services to urge certain financial institutions to examine and possibly cease their relationship with the National Rifle Association NRA.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley of Batavia criticized Gov. Cuomo’s attempt to use his official position to turn private insurance companies, banks and other financial institutions against the NRA.
Hawley called the Governors’ actions “an absolute overreach and clear abuse of power.”

The man accused of being the Golden State Killer is an Upstate New York native.
Yesterday 72 year old Joseph James DeAngelo was arrested and believed to be behind twelve murders and dozens of rapes in California in the ’70s and ’80s.
“The Sacramento Bee” reports that DeAngelo was originally born in the town of Bath in Steuben County but was living in California by the time he was an adult.
Police say they tied his DNA to unsolved crimes committed by one of the most terrifying American serial killers.

The Bills could still be looking to trade up before tonight’s NFL Draft.
The Bills have the 12th and 22nd overall picks but many speculate they would be willing to give up a lot for a shot at Wyoming quarterback Josh Allen.
An ESPN sports reporter tweeted yesterday that Bills GM Brandon Beane said they could get the number-two pick without giving away too much in the future.
Also, Beane said they might not need to go that high to get a franchise quarterback.

A 64 year old Orleans County pilot remains in guarded condition at Strong Hospital with burns suffered in the crash of his experimental helicopter.
Alan Heard of Waterport was burned on his head and chest when his ultra-light helicopter crashed shortly after taking off yesterday from the Gaines Valley Airport in Carlton.
Mark Bennett, who had stopped to watch the take-off, helped Heard get out of the fiery wreckage snuffed out flames that were burning the pilot’s clothing.
The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office said the FAA has secured parts of the aircraft and recovered a video camera which may contain footage of the crash.

Visitor Restrictions have been lifted at UMMC.
As confirmed flu cases decline throughout our area, visitor restrictions have been lifted at all Rochester Regional Health hospitals including Rochester General and UMMC in Batavia.

It looks like the end of the road for Rochester City Court Judge Leticia Astacio and her judicial career.
The Commission on Judicial Conduct says hat she should be removed as a judge.
In 2016 Astacio was convicted of drunk driving and was most recently charged with a felony.
Astacio could remain an elected judge for up to three to five more months pending appeals.

Legendary Bills quarterback Jim Kelly is coming back to Buffalo today. He’s been in New York City for nearly a month recovering from surgery to remove a cancerous tumor from his jaw.

The Orleans County Sheriff’s office and the Federal Aviation Administration are continuing the investigation into the aviation accident that occurred in the Town of Gaines near the Gaines Valley Airport.

F.A.A. investigators were on scene yesterday afternoon examining the scene where a small a “Mosquito XE model” helicopter crashed into a field several hundred yards west of the Gaines Valley Airport. The pilot, identified as Alan Heard, age 64, of Waterport, N.Y. , survived the crash and was rescued from the wreckage by Mark Bennett of Waterport N.Y.

Bennett was driving by and observed the helicopter preparing to take off so he stopped to watch. After lifting off to an altitude of approximately 100 to 200 feet, the pilot reportedly began experiencing mechanical problems. A popping and grinding sound was heard by witnesses as the helicopter travelled in a westerly direction over the Gaines-Waterport Road. At this point the aircraft was on fire and the pilot performed a hard landing on the skids in a field.

Mr. Bennett climbed over an electric fence and ran to the crash site. Mr. Bennett assisted the pilot in getting out of the aircraft and away from the wreckage which was now engulfed in flames. Mr. Heard was also on fire and Mr. Bennett was able to roll the victim and cut his shirt off with a knife to extinguish the flames.

Mr. Heard was transported to Strong Hospital in Rochester by C.O.V.A Ambulance where he remains in the I.C.U. in guarded condition. The Albion Fire Department and Carlton Fire Company also assisted at the scene.

F.A.A. investigators secured parts of the aircraft along with a “Go-Pro” camera for analysis as they attempt to determine the cause of the crash.

Press Release:

Aurora, Colorado—Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr. of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office attended the 114th session of the National Sheriffs’ Institute (NSI) held in Aurora, Colorado, April 9-13, 2018. Unfortunately, due to an officer-involved shooting in Genesee County on April 11, Sheriff Sheron had to remove himself from the session and was unable to complete the training.

The NSI is the only national executive development program designed for sheriffs. This no-cost program is co-sponsored by the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) and the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA). Sheriff Sheron joined 27 other sheriffs from across the country for training on contemporary challenges facing America’s sheriffs today. In light of those challenges, the sheriffs explored the role of the local sheriff in providing effective leadership for the public good in such areas as public safety, criminal justice system policy, community relations, and organization effectiveness and efficiency.

The NIC is a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Prisons. It is the primary federal source of technical assistance, training, and information services for state and local corrections. NIC provides a wide variety of services to the nation’s jails, most of which are the responsibility of sheriffs.

The NSA is a non-profit professional association located in Alexandria, Virginia. NSA represents the nearly 3,100 elected sheriffs across the nation and has more than 20,000 members, including law enforcement professionals, state and federal government employees, concerned citizens, students, and others. Since 1940, NSA has served as an information clearinghouse for law enforcement professionals. NSA also provides management training for sheriffs and their personnel in court security, crime victim services, domestic violence, homeland security initiatives, jail operations, and traffic safety. Additionally, NSA administers the highly successful National Neighborhood Watch and Triad programs.

An image representing the #ARTtoo theme, created by Digital Art student Yuki Lai

Press Release:

Digital Art and Photography students at Genesee Community College have spent the year preparing works to be featured in the College’s juried student art exhibit which will be on display in the Rosalie “Roz” Steiner Art Gallery at GCC’s Batavia Campus from May 3 – May 20, 2018. The entire community is encouraged to come and enjoy this spectacular celebration of student work.

The student exhibit this year has been created under the theme #ARTtoo. Digital art and photography are sometimes overlooked as forms of fine art. Often when people think of ‘fine art’ they imagine paintings, drawings or sculptures overlooking masterfully created work that employs technology. The #ARTtoo title reminds viewers that photography and digital art are very real forms of fine art too. Around 40 students entered over 300 works for consideration, and only around 70 pieces will be displayed in the gallery.

Opening Receptions for the #ARTtoo exhibit will be held on Thursday, May 3, 2018 at 12:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. Artistic awards will be announced at the evening reception beginning at 7 p.m. in the Gallery.

This exhibit marks the second juried student exhibit at GCC. The juror this year was Nigel Maister, an artist and a collector who was born in South Africa. Maister currently serves as the Russel and Ruth Peck Artistic Director of the University of Rochester’s International Theatre Program. Maister trained as an actor and director and he earned a Master of Fine Arts from Carnegie Mellon University.

In the Photography category, Maister will award cash prizes ranging from $75 to $150 for Digital, Film, Pinhole, Best Concept and Best Overall Photography totaling $475 in prizes.

In the Digital Art category, Maister will award cash prizes ranging from $75 to $150 for Illustration, Typography, Promotional Design, Dream Imagery, Media (video and animation), Best Concept and Best Overall Digital Art totaling $625 in prizes.

The Roz Steiner Art Gallery is open to the public Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and during special events as published at www.genesee.edu/campuslife/arts or on Facebook using https://www.facebook.com/gccgallery. Admission to the Gallery is always free.

For more information, contact Gallery Coordinator Mary Jo Whitman at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6490, or via email: mjwhitman@genesee.edu.

60 year old Joseph Mlyniec has been held in the Wyoming County Jail since he allegedly shot and killed Robert Irvine the third in March.

The retired sheriff’s sergeant was serving as a Perry Town Board Council member at the time of the murder and council members had said their hands were tied in removing Mlyniec from the Board without an election.

Apparently the board won’t be burdened with removing Mlyniec as he submitted his resignation letter last week.

The move comes after information on Mlyniec’s possible motive to kill Irvine surfaced in court documents.

According to the prosecution Mlyniec killed Irvine to cover up rape allegations that would expose his alleged double life where he groomed troubled young men into performing sexual favors for him.

Mlyniec’s attorney is planning on using a psychiatric defense in the hopes of avoiding a possible life sentence at trial.

Press Release:

In alignment with declining influenza activity throughout our area, visitor restrictions have been lifted at all Rochester Regional Health Hospitals which include: Rochester General, Unity, Newark-Wayne Community, Clifton Springs and United Memorial Medical Center.

People with fever or respiratory illness symptoms should still delay their hospital visits until they have been symptom-free for 24 hours.

21 year old Olivia Smith of School Street in the City was arrested after deputies stopped to check the welfare of a roadside vehicle on Clinton Street Road in Bergen.

Smith was accused of consuming alcohol inside the vehicle and allegedly possessed a fictitious driver’s license.

She was arrested and charged with DWAI by a combination of alcohol and drugs, possession of a forged driver’s license along with having an open container of alcohol in a vehicle.

After being drug tested Smith was released with an appearance ticket for Bergen Town Court in June.

Passerby saves pilot in Orleans County chopper crash.
The pilot of a homemade helicopter was reportedly saved by a passerby after crashing in a field across from a small airport in Orleans County.
Mark Bennett of Waterport pulled over to watch the small helicopter as he was driving by the Gaines Valley Airport in Carlton yesterday afternoon.
Apparently pieces of the aircraft started to fall off and after hearing a grinding noise the chopper dropped out of the sky crashing and bursting into flames.
Bennett ran to the flaming wreckage and freed the pilot out from underneath.
The pilot suffered serious burns to his head and chest and was taken via ambulance to Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.
According to Orleans County Sheriff Randy Bower the small private chopper called a “mosquito” was only flying for around 10 minutes before crashing and only went as high as power lines.
The pilot has yet to be named and the crash is under FAA investigation.

It looks like the end of the road for Rochester City Court Judge Leticia Astacio and her judicial career.
The Commission on Judicial Conduct announced yesterday that she should be removed as a judge.
In 2016 Astacio was convicted of drunk driving and was most recently charged with a felony.
The CJC said this was a culmination of improprieties over the years and not a single offense.
Astacio could remain an elected judge for up to three to five more months pending appeals.

Rochester resident picked up for purse snatching in LeRoy.
LeRoy Police arrested 40 year old Jessie P. Polito of Rochester following a lengthy investigation into a stolen purse and credit cards.
Polito was accused of stealing a purse and credit cards from an acquaintance in October of last year.
He allegedly used the cards in numerous locations in Monroe County and was eventually identified through video surveillance.
Polito was charged with three felony counts of Grand Larceny and was given an appearance for LeRoy Town Court on May 8th.

Wegmans is calling out Governor Cuomo’s proposed plastic bag bill by adding up the cost.
This week the governor said plastic bags were a blight and a hazard to the environment, and he wants to outlaw most plastic bags across the state.
Wegmans says the ban will just up paper bag use, burning seven times the fossil fuel to transport them because of the weight.
It says it takes 90-percent more energy to produce paper bags rather than plastic.
The Upstate grocer says it encourages customers to return plastic bags and use reusable bags.

Legendary Bills quarterback Jim Kelly is coming back to Buffalo today.
He’s been in New York City for nearly a month recovering from surgery to remove a cancerous tumor from his jaw.
Kelly posted a picture yesterday on Instagram from Central Park saying it was his last day in the Big Apple.
He thanked his followers and said don’t stop the prayers.

Governor Andrew Cuomo is introducing a bill that would ban the use of single-use plastic bags in New York State. Cuomo says plastic bags are “a blight” that takes a devastating toll on streets, water and natural resources. The bill would exempt garment bags, trash bags or any bags used to wrap or contain certain foods such as sliced meats and fruits. If approved, the measure would go into effect next January 1st.

A GoFundMe campaign is raising money to cover funeral expenses for the mother and son who died last week in Kendall.
Joan Jo Gilman and her 14-year-old son “RJ” likely died from a gas leak caused by propane appliances used to heat the house after National Grid shut off their power.
The fundraising campaign has already raised three-thousand-dollars of the ten-thousand-dollar goal.

The financially troubled Tops Markets wants to pay its top executives three and a half million dollars in Bonuses.
The Buffalo News reports that the bonus plan would reward Tops CEO Frank Curci more than 1.3-million dollars in bonuses if the company exceeds certain financial targets. Tops filed for bankruptcy in February.

Jessie Polito
PHOTO: LeRoy PD

LeRoy Police have collared a purse snatcher.
40 year old Jessie Polito of Rochester was arrested following a lengthy investigation that started last October.
Polito is accused of stealing a purse containing credit cards and running up purchases in Monroe County.
Police used video surveillance to track down Poilito.
He is charged with three counts of Grand Larceny.

News Release:

Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel announced that on Wednesday, April 25th at 5pm there will be a preview of the upcoming capital improvement projects coming to Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel. It will take place inside Grandstands from 5pm until 6:30pm.

“We’re looking forward to sharing with our loyal patrons the new additions to the property that will enhance their onsite experience,” said President/CEO Henry Wojtaszek. “We’ll have artist renderings and discuss plans for our new Cigar Bar, enhancements to Fortune’s and 34 Rush as well as upgrades to our Paddock Events Room.”

The mixer is open to the public, light refreshments will be served.

Press Release:

When: Tuesday, May 8, 2018

Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm

Where: Batavia Town Hall
3833 West Main Street Road, Batavia, NY 14020

RSVP: by May 4, 2018 to Felipe.Oltramari@co.genesee.ny.us

County, Town and Village Planning and Zoning Board members can earn up to 2 hours of training credit at this workshop. Attendance certificates will be available.
This training will focus on the Planning and Zoning section of the Solar Guidebook, particularly on the Solar Model Law. It will provide an overview on topics such as siting solar on agricultural land and Payment-In-Lieu-of Payment (PILOT) agreements.

NY-Sun Workshop Flyer – Genesee May 8 Batavia

Angela Tozer, photograph courtesy of GCC

Press Release:

Officials at Genesee Community College have named Angela Tozer of Rochester as a new Academic Success Coach. This appointment is a significant step in the college’s implementation of its Performance Improvement Fund (PIF) Grant, provided by the State University of New York (SUNY) to help build non-traditional student enrollment in community colleges and encourage bachelor’s degree completion.

The PIF for Building Non-traditional Student Enrollment Grant has been designed to pave an efficient transfer path from GCC and other community colleges for completion of an online bachelor’s degree at Alfred State University. GCC joins Erie, Finger Lakes, Jamestown and Monroe Community Colleges to partner with Alfred State in targeting non-traditional students for degree completion in Healthcare, Human Services and Technology Management, as well as Nursing and Construction Supervision.

Cross-functional teams of academic directors, staff and faculty are working together to examine how students interested in these programs at each community college can seamlessly transfer using new or current articulation agreements while leveraging the flexibility of online learning to benefit working or place-bound non-traditional students. Specific academic support geared toward the unique needs of this population and developing marketing plans to attract and engage students are among the many shared initiatives.

“The grant provides resources to be dedicated to this very important initiative. Whether looking to start a new career or advance in an existing career, non-traditional students have a unique set of challenges,” Dr. Kathleen (Kate) Schiefen, GCC’s provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs said. “We hope to support these students and help ensure their long-term success by establishing clear pathways for advanced degrees through collaborative transfer agreements, while taking advantage of online conveniences and technology.”

As the newest GCC Academic Success Coach, Tozer will act as a PIF grant advisoror and transfer liaison for students looking to take their associate degree from GCC and transfer to Alfred State College specifically into Nursing, Healthcare Management, Human Services or Business and Technology Management.

Tozer joined Genesee Community College in 2015 as an academic advisor with the primary goal of coaching students toward their associate degree completion. She has coached countless students from early academic and career planning to reaching out to students who are struggling and help them find the support they need to overcome obstacles. Tozer has worked extensively with a variety of GCC departments including Admissions, Records, Financial Aid and more. Her collaborative efforts and experience prepared her well for the exciting challenges of being the PIF Academic Success Coach.

Prior to GCC, Tozer spend over 20 years as a private tutor and homeschool teacher working as an Independent Contractor in Rochester. During this time, Tozer gained invaluable experience in curriculum development, developing Math Ease (a program designed to increase student awareness of common mathematical errors), and she was instrumental in building a partnership with Rochester Colonial to provide students with hands-on contract estimate experience.

Tozer earned her Master of Science in Education from Walden University in 2006 and her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from SUNY Brockport in 1983. She currently holds certification as an IOWA Exam Tester from Bob Jones University.

Mika Vazquez-Pulcino, an student artist who will be exhibiting her work at Genesee Community College’s Albion Campus Center

Press Release:

Albion, NY– Genesee Community College invites the community to the Albion Campus Center on Wednesday, April 25, 2018, from 4 – 5 p.m. to enjoy an Art Reception for a GCC student exhibit. Since the beginning of this spring semester, Adjunct Professor Karen Flack’s ART 114 painting students have been creatively and colorfully painting canvasses that are a must see! If you can’t make the reception, you may stop by some other time — the art work will be on display until May 9, 2018.

This reception is free and open to the public and light refreshments will be served.

The Albion Campus Center is located at 456 West Avenue, Albion, NY 14411. For more information contact the Albion Campus Center at (585) 589-4936.

Batavia man remains hospitalized from a deadly two car crash in Lockport.
A Lockport man is dead and a Batavia resident remains seriously injured following a car versus box truck crash in Lockport.
28 year old Brandon Loucks of Batavia remains hospitalized recovering from his injuries sustained in the crash according to the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office
Loucks was seriously hurt in the crash last Thursday afternoon when his eastbound Genesee Lumber Company box truck crossed the center line of Stone Road and slammed into a westbound car. The other driver, 44 year old Brian Ralph of Lockport was killed in the head on collision.
There are currently no charges issued in the incident however the investigation remains on-going.

A Wyoming County woman is accused of robbing money from her relatives account.
20 year old Christine Barr of Arcade was arrested for allegedly stealing seven thousand dollars from a family member’s checking account.
Police said she used account information to make cash withdrawals since January.
Barr is behind bars in lieu of bail.

Missing photo lands a Livingston County Sex offender in lock up.
30 year old Joseph Dexter of York was arrested and charged with a felony count of Failure to Register and Verify.
Dexter, a level one sex offender, allegedly failed to report for his updated photo as required by the NYS Corrections Law every three years.
After being arraigned in the Geneseo Village Court Dexter was remanded to the custody of the Sheriff on one-thousand dollars bail.

Stolen vehicle sends a North Spruce Street man into lockup.
37 year old Gary Burney of Batavia facing a series of charges for violating a stay-away order and allegedly stealing the car of the person he was ordered to avoid.
Batavia Police say the suspected incident happened last November.
Burney is locked up without bail.

A GoFundMe campaign is raising money to cover funeral expenses for the mother and son who died last week in Kendall.
Joan Jo Gilman and her 14-year-old son Richard “RJ” Gilman likely died from a gas leak caused by propane appliances used to heat the house after National Grid shut off their power.
The fundraising campaign has already raised three-thousand-dollars of the ten-thousand-dollar goal and you can find a link to the donation page here.
Deputies in Orleans County are still investigating the incident.

Governor Andrew Cuomo is trying to ban the use of single-use plastic bags in New York.
He introduced a bill yesterday to ban most plastic bags statewide.
Cuomo says plastic bags are a blight taking a devastating toll on streets, water and natural resources.
If approved, the measure would go into effect next year.
Garment bags, trash bags or any bags used to wrap or contain certain foods such as sliced meats and fruits would be exempt.

A Batavia man remains hospitalized with injuries suffered when his truck crashed into a car in Lockport.
28 year old Brandon Loucks of Batavia was seriously hurt in the crash last Thursday afternoon.
Loucks was driving a box truck at the time and crossed the center line of the highway. The driver of the car, 44 yrear old Brian Ralph of Lockport, was killed.
No charges have been filed but the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation.

A North Spruce Street man facing a series of charges for violating a stay-away order and allegedly stealing the car of the person he was ordered to avoid.
37 year old Gary Burney is locked up without bail.
Batavia Police say the suspected incident happened last November.

An accused Batavia crack dealer taken in by Local Drug Task Force.
35 year old Joshua Bachorski of Spruce Street is accused of selling crack cocaine to a Drug Task Force agent last December.
Bachorski is in the Genesee County Jail on $20,000 bail.

A Wyoming County woman is behind bars allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from her family.
20-year-old Christine Barr of Arcade was arrested or taking from a family member’s checking account.
Police said she used account information to make cash withdrawals since January.

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U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer says the Federal Aviation Administration has taken a nose dive in safety. Schumer’s office audited the agency and found fines against airlines decreased after 2014 and took a real steep drop in 2017. His audit comes shortly after a person was killed when an engine exploded on a Southwest Airlines flight and when a sightseeing helicopter ride in New York City went down killing five people.

A fatal crash in Lockport lands a Batavia Box Truck Driver in the hospital.

The Niagara County Sheriff’s Office has identified 28 year old Brandon Loucks of Batavia as the surviving driver in a fatal accident in Lockport.

The accident occurred last Thursday afternoon when Loucks’ was traveling eastbound on Stone Road in a box truck and crossed the center line striking a westbound passenger car.

The Sheriff’s Office says the crash killed 44 year old Brian Ralph of Lockport and left Loucks seriously injured.

Loucks was taken by Mercy Flight to ECMC and according to authorities he remains hospitalized recovering from his injuries.

Ralph was pronounced dead at the scene.

No charges have been announced and investigation into the accident remains on-going.

Grand theft auto leaves a Batavia man jailed without bail.
Batavia Police allegedly discovered 31 year old Gary Burney of North Spruce Street inside another person’s apartment who had a complete stay away order of protection against him.
Officers arrested Burney for criminal contempt and additionally executed an arrested warrant for him.
He was wanted for a prior domestic incident involving the same protected person where he was accused of forcefully stealing their keys and purse then fleeing the scene in their vehicle.
Burney was charged with two counts of Grand Larceny, two counts of Criminal Contempt and Robbery in the second degree.
He was remanded without bail to the Genesee County Jail and is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court this morning.

An Arcade woman is jailed for allegedly stealing family funds.
20 year old Christine Barr of Arcade is accused of taking $7,000 from a family member’s checking account according to Wyoming County Deputies.
They say that beginning in January, Barr used account information to make numerous cash withdrawals.
She was arrested and charged with Grand Larceny, Criminal Impersonation and Unlawful Possession of a personal ID.
After being arraigned in Arcade Town Court Barr was committed in lieu of $5,000 to the Wyoming County Jail.

Oakfield man faces felony following Three car crash in Corfu.
24 year old Jacob Szumigala of Orchard Park Road in Oakfield was arrested and charged with a felony count of Vehicular Assault, DWI, Speeding and driving without a license.
According to Deputies Szumigala was the cause of a three vehicle crash on Main Street in Corfu last Wednesday that sent four people to ECMC.
Szumigla was ordered to be held in lieu of $10,000 bail and is expected in Corfu Village Court on May 14th.

Accused crack dealer in Batavia taken in by Local Drug Task Force.
35 year old Joshua Bachorski of Spruce Street is accused of selling crack cocaine to a Drug Task Force agent last December.
Bachorski is facing two Felony counts for possessing and selling drugs.
He was remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $20,000 bail.

The company that owns Chuck E Cheese’s is investigating after a brawl at their Amherst location.
This weekend a video of at least 15 young women or teenage girls beating each other, pulling hair and throwing chairs at the restaurant went viral.
It took employees more than a minute to break up the chaotic scene.
Those involved in the fight haven’t been ID’d yet and no arrests have been made.

Paul Simon surprises audience at Rochester Music Hall of Fame.
Last night the legendary singer songwriter made a surprise appearance at the Eastman Theatre.
Inductees Steve Gadd and Tony Levin performed at the induction ceremony with Simon.
Ferdinand Jay Smith and the Campbell Brothers were also inducted.

An Oakfield man is accused of Drunk Driving and a variety of other charges from a three car crash in Corfu.
24 year old Jacob Szumigala of Orchard Park Road, Oakfield, is charged with DWI, Vehicular Assault, Speeding and driving without a license.
Deputies say Szumigala triggered a three vehicle crash last Wednesday on Main Street in Corfuthat sent four people to ECMC.
Szumigla was jailed in lieu to 10-thosuand dollars bail.

A Batavia man is behind county bars facing drug charges.
35 year old Joshua Bachorski of Spruce Street is accused of selling crack cocaine to a Drug Task Force agent last December.
Bachorski is locked up on 20-thousand dollars bail.

A Wyoming County corrections officer faces prison time after taking plea deal in drug smuggling case.
37 year old William Fannan of Orchard Park pleaded guilty to felony counts of Promoting Prison Contraband and Receiving a Bribe.
Fannan admitted he was paid to smuggle synthetic marijuana to two Wyoming County Jail inmates.
Fannan is expected to be sentenced to one and one third to three years in state prison avoiding a possible longer sentence.

The Batavia City Council is holding a Conference Meeting tomorrow night.
Among the items on the agenda are measures to declare certain handguns and rifles of the police department As surplus, to make way for the way of the weapons.
The department will then use the proceeds from the sale of the firearms to purchase new weapons.
The PD also declares two 2014 cruisers as surplus.
Council meets at 7 tomorrow night in city hall.

Press Release:

2018 Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet Award Recipient List:

Volunteer of the Year – Peggy Schreck

Business Partner of the Year – Ford Gum & Machine Co.. Inc.

Youth Spotlight Award – Jillian Menzie
Youth Spotlight Award – Julia Menzie

Friend of Arc – Jan Miner
Friend of Arc – Medina Bowling Lanes
Friend of Arc – Kustom Kreations

Self-Advocate Person of the Year – Nicole Hirtzel
Self-Advocate Person of the Year – Brett Potter
Supported Employment Person of the Year – TBA on May 3rd
Supported Employment Person of the Year – John Rotoli
Residential Person of the Year – Anton Hinds
Day Habilitation Person of the Year – John Edmonson
Work Center Person of the Year – Dolores Wanser
Work Center Person of the Year – Ronald Martin
Community Services Person of the Year – Jarred Saj

Staff Recognition Award – Jennifer Conklin
Staff Recognition Award – Dylan DeSmit
Staff Recognition Award – Carl Jones
Staff Recognition Award – Brandi Kinnicutt
Staff Recognition Award – Kaelie Grazioplene
Staff Recognition Award – Jim Henning
Staff Recognition Award – Kim Austin
Staff Recognition Award – Carolyn Dawson

Mary Anne Graney Scholarship – 4 recipients

GCC’s Jordan Brennan (with ball) the top goal scorer against No. 10 Tompkins-Cortland Community College

Press Release:

Battle of Top-10 Men’s Lacrosse Teams Goes to Cougars

Playing in wintry conditions that included snowfall, the Genesee Community College men’s lacrosse team traveled to No. 10 Tompkins-Cortland Community College April 19 and returned with a 23-5 win.

It took the Cougars about three minutes to establish a lead they wouldn’t relinquish on their way to their ninth victory of the season.

Genesee dominated in all aspects of the game including shots, shots on net and groundballs.

In the latter category, Andrew Forte led with 12 of his team’s 49 groundballs, many the byproduct of his 13 faceoff wins from 16 attempts. In all, 19 different Cougars recorded at least one groundball with four Genesee players getting three or more that included Jason Chiodo (five), Mat Anderson (four), Henry Reber (three) and of course Forte.

Not far behind Forte in winning faceoff percentage was Brad Hejmanowski, who went 9-of-13 from the circle. Garret Lazore, Lincoln Potter and Troi Benedict all split time in goal with each recording a pair of saves.

Current Cougar Male Athlete of the Week Jordan Brennan led the offensive attack with team-highs in shots (nine), shots on net (seven) and goals (six).

Kevin McParlene was not far behind Brennan in goals with five, and led the Cougars in points with nine. Behind McParlene in points was Chiodo with seven from four goals and three assists.

Tyler Thompson and Alex Mack each recorded hat tricks with three goals apiece, while single tallies came from Zach Wade and Patrick Bilbrey.

John Faynor (seated far left) and twin brother Jayson (center seated) commit to GCC baseball from Lima Christian

Cougar Baseball Team Looking to Give Opponents Double Trouble Next Season with Signing

Genesee Community College head baseball coach Skip Sherman gave new meaning to the terms “twin bill” and “doubleheader” that often refer to baseball and rarely refer to both individuals and the sport.

Sherman signed two of the most competitive siblings in the area from Lima Christian High School with twin brothers Jayson and John Faynor ready to suit up for the Cougars in the fall of 2018.

Jayson is a two-time Section V Player-of-the-Year private parochial school player, who’s resume includes a Class D championship (2017), a first-team all-state selection (2017), a second-team all-state selection (2016), and a first-team private parochial selection (2015).

John is a fourth-team all-state selection (2017), and a three-time private parochial first or second teamer for the last three years (2015-17), in addition to also being a member of that same 2017 Class D championship team.

The pair combined last season for 70 hits, 62 runs and 51 RBI for Lima Christian and some onlookers saw less similarity in the duo’s baseball numbers than their appearance last season.

While John was plus-four in hits over Jayson at 37-33, and another plus-four over Jayson in runs scored at 33-29, Jayson had 15 more RBI than John at 33-18. Their batting averages were also almost identical with John batting .487 to Jayson’s .471.

Sometimes the only way to know how to distinguish the pair for sure is to watch them write (sign, see photo) with Jayson being a right-hander and John a southpaw.

Both have seen action from the bump, but Jayson has also excelled at shortstop while John also at catcher. Sherman said the pair have had the best coach possible at the high-school level where baseball followed them to the diamond and to their home with John Sr. at the helm.

Bri Heers scored for GCC in the final minute with an end to end rush against No. 1 Monroe

Women’s Lacrosse Team Prepares for Regionals in Final Home Game

The Genesee Community College women’s lacrosse team knew they had a tough task in front of them against the top team in the National Junior College Athletic Association April 18.

The No. 1 Monroe Community College women’s lacrosse team kept their perfect record intact in moving to 7-0, but it was the spirited play of the Cougars in the second half that impressed most.

A never-give-up mindset in the second half produced a pair Genesee goals. The Tribunes out-scored the Cougars by seven goals during the final 30 minutes as Genesee looked like a rejuvenated team in the second. In all of Monroe’s impressive wins this season that propelled them to No. 1, only three teams have scored more than a pair of goals in any half against them.

Bri Heers ended the game’s scoring with a brilliant rush that encompassed most of the playing field. Kali Wright set the tone early in the second by scoring on an elusive ground shot. The Cougars scored on two of their three second-half shots with a scoring percentage of 67 percent.

Monroe got eight of its 25 on free-position shots and barely beat the Cougars in the groundball game at 31-28. Molly Barden and Allison Duhow recorded 11 of those 28 with the former corralling six and the latter five. Three groundballs each came from Julie Kommer, Rachel Ladd, and Wright.

Current NJCAA Region-III Female Athlete of the Week and current Cougar Female Athlete of the Week Sara Zakes had seven more saves than either of the two Monroe goalies, who split time in the contest.

GCC Athletics Players of the Week Sara Zakes and Jordan Brennan

Cougar Athletes of the Week Announced

The Genesee Community College’s athletes of the week for the period ending April 15 are Sara Zakes (Oakfield, NY) from the women’s lacrosse team and Jordan Brennan (Gowanda, NY) from the men’s lacrosse team.

Zakes had an amazing 74 percent save percentage while allowing an average of just five goals-against per-game in a pair of lacrosse contests last week. First, she kept her team in the game with the lead for most of the contest against a quality team that Genesee will be joining in the upcoming regional Final Four and her performance against the Kats had her with a double-digit edge in saves over her counterpart with 25 saves from 33 shots April 11. In her second outing of the week, Zakes stopped four of six shots against North Country with one of the Saints’ goals coming off a free position shot April 14. The win advanced Genesee to the Region-III Final Four and surpassed the team’s win total from a season ago. Overall she stopped 29 of 39 shots for the week. Zakes also captured the NJCAA Region-III Athlete of the Week for her efforts.

Brennan led the No. 3 Cougars in points in both of their contests last week. Overall, the sophomore registered 18 points from eight goals and 10 assists. Against Broome, he led the team in points with eight, led the team in assists with four, and co-led the team in goals with four. The midfielder then led the team in points with 10 against Finger Lakes Community College and in the process led the team in assists with six against, while accumulating another four-goal performance. In the two contests, Brennan also collected six groundballs to go with his 18 points.

Mark Jagord
GCC Sports Information

Press Release:

Genesee Community College invites homeschooled students and their parents to the Medina Campus Center on Monday, May 14, 2018 from 5 – 7 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, and a light supper will also be served!

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.

The evening will include information about how GCC coursework helps homeschooled students earn the New York State High School Equivalency Diploma. Scholarship and financial aid information will also be available. All interested participants are asked to RSVP their attendance no later than May 8, 2018.

“Each year this event is extremely successful so the Medina Campus Center is thrilled to continue our efforts to provide area homeschool families with the opportunity to learn about everything GCC has to offer at our Orleans County Campus Centers,” Jim Simon, associate dean of the Orleans County Campus Centers said. “There are so many ways GCC can serve the interests and needs of homeschooled students and their families. From our small class sizes and excellent instructors to the variety of courses in many different subjects offered both on campus as well as online.”

Families will 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’s seven campus locations or online. More than 100 courses are being offered this summer. GCC has three Summer Sessions: The full summer session runs for ten weeks starting May 29 through August 11; Session I runs May 29 – June 30; and Session II runs July 9 – August 11.

The Medina Campus Center is located at 11470 Maple Ridge Rd., Medina, NY 14103. For more information contact the Medina Campus Center at (585) 798-1688.
For more information, contact Marketing Communications Associate Director Donna Rae Sutherland at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6616, or via email: dsutherland@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Commissioner Michael O’Rielly today met with local elected officials to discuss the lack of high-speed internet in rural communities across New York’s 27th Congressional District.

“I thank Commissioner Mike O’Rielly, a Lockport native, for coming to my district to discuss the FCC initiatives that will help provide our communities with increased broadband capabilities,” said Collins. “This day in age, the lack of access to broadband we see in Western New York is astonishing. We must make sure our rural communities have the resources they need to run a business, complete an education, or simply shop online. Government officials and the private sector must work collaboratively in order to remove the regulatory barriers that are standing in the way of increased access.”

“I appreciated hearing directly from New York lawmakers about the need for broadband throughout the state of New York,” said O’Rielly. “Last year, New York received up to $170.4 million from the FCC Universal Service Fund to ensure the entire state was connected. I will be monitoring how this buildout process advances and expect state leaders are able to deliver on the promises it made when it took this funding.”

Collins’ district is 65% underserved by high-speed internet, with 3% completely unserved. This is largely due to burdensome regulations on internet service providers that deter them from expanding service to rural areas.

Throughout his time in Congress, Collins has worked to correct discrepancies in current law to make sure companies who build the groundwork to provide everyday Americans with internet service are able to continue expansion. O’Rielly will continue to provide the necessary oversight to make sure state lawmakers are properly utilizing funding and taking action to expand broadband access.

“In March of 2012, the Niagara-Orleans Regional Alliance (NORA) initiated a project to bring high-speed, reliable, and affordable Internet to every home across our two counties,” said Lynne M. Johnson, Chairman Orleans County Legislature and David E. Godfrey, Chairman Niagara County Public Safety Committee. “By the end of 2017, the Governor’s New York State Broadband Program office distributed ½ billion dollars to qualified Internet vendors, with the promise to deliver that service to nearly 99% of the residents across both counties. NORA will continue to stand guard to ensure the vendors keep their commitment to cover our most rural areas. Through the vigilant efforts of Congressman Collins and Commissioner O’Rielly, and the additional federal funding they have work so diligently to secure, our taxpayers will finally cross the threshold into the 21st century. Our fight will not be over until the last house with the last child gets the Internet service they not only need but deserve.”

“The GLOW counties appreciate the outreach and efforts by our partners in the federal government , Congressman Collins and Commissioner O’Rielly, to help us achieve a close to 98% rural broadband reality that leverages public and private resources to deliver reliable and 21st century internet speed to some of our hardest to serve areas,” said Jay Gsell, Genesee County Manager. “While said ‘Last Mile’ residents and businesses are ready and waiting for the extension of high speed internet to their ‘Front Door,’ getting there has been an ongoing struggle. Hopefully the combined efforts of our local governments, federal partners, state government and the private sector internet providers will get us to the finish line.”

“Rural broadband expansion is a big issue for our residents,” said Ian M. Coyle, County Administrator. The notion that the state, and this county, is 100% covered is a misnomer and we need additional deployments and resource expansion into our persistently underserved and unserved areas.”

Driver in three car crash in Corfu is jailed on felony charges.
Following investigation into a serious motor vehicle crash in Corfu, The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office arrested 24 year old Jacob Szumigala of Orchard Park Road in Oakfield.
He has been charged with DWI, a felony count of Vehicular Assault causing serious physical injury, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation along with Reckless Driving and a number of traffic law violations.
Szumigala was accused of slamming into the back of a Honda Civic on Main Street in Corfu Wednesday evening sending the vehicle into the path of a new GMC SUV.
Everyone involved in the crash was taken to ECMC for injuries and Szumigala has been remanded to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bail.

Spruce Street resident behind bars for alleged crack sales in the city.
35 year old Joshua Bachorski of Batavia was arrested by members of the Genesee County Local Drug Enforcement Task Force for allegedly selling crack cocaine to a Task Force agent in December.
Bachorski was charged with two Class B felonies for Criminal Sale and Possession of a Controlled Substance.
He was ordered to be held on $20,000 bail in the Genesee County Jail.

Elderly drug dealer busted in Medina.
Investigators from the Orleans County Sheriff’s Office have arrested and charged Medina resident Margaret Natale with Criminal Sale and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell, along with a count of Conspiracy.
According to authorities Natale is 81 years old.
She was arraigned in the Ridgeway Town Court and was Released on Her Own Recognizance.

A Wyoming County corrections officer faces prison time after taking plea deal in drug smuggling case.
37 year old William Fannan of Orchard Park pleaded guilty to felony counts of Promoting Prison Contraband and Receiving a Bribe.
Fannan admitted he was paid to smuggle synthetic marijuana to two Wyoming County Jail inmates.
Fannan is expected to be sentenced to one and one third to three years in state prison avoiding a possible seven year sentence.

Batavia man stuck in jail after getting stuck in the mud.
36 year old Jason Anderson of South Main Street apparently got his vehicle stuck at Kibbe Park.
Instead of getting help, Police say Anderson stole another vehicle then tried to push his car. That ended with both vehicles getting stuck.
He was charged with grand larceny and possession of hypodermic needles.

Governor Cuomo is facing a federal lawsuit for not declaring a special election after the death of Congresswoman Louise Slaughter.
The longtime Western New York representative died last month but some local voters filed the lawsuit this week.
The suit claims it’s unconstitutional for the governor not to call for a special election. The suit is also targeting the state board of elections and the Monroe County board of elections.

Orleans County authorities continue to investigate the death of a mother and her son of possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
Deputies say they found the bodies of 38-year-old Joan Gillman and her 14-year-old son Wednesday night in Kendall.
Power to their house had been shut off for days and they were reportedly using a portable generator and propane powered appliances.
National Grid isn’t commenting on why the power had been shut off.

The new Bills schedule is out and they may face some challenges.
They open the 2018 season September ninth facing the Ravens in Baltimore.
Half the games Buffalo is scheduled to play are against teams that won more than half of their games last year.
The Bills have one Monday night football game this year playing the Patriots just before Halloween.

A Wyoming County corrections officer faces prison time after taking plea deal in drug smuggling case.
37 year old William Fannan of Orchard Park pleaded guilty to felony counts of Promoting Prison Contraband and Receiving a Bribe.
Fannan admitted he was paid to smuggle synthetic marijuana to two Wyoming County Jail inmates.
Fannan is expected to be sentenced to one and one third to three years in state prison avoiding a possible seven year sentence.

Batavia man stuck in jail after getting stuck in the mud.
36 year old Jason Anderson of South Main Street apparently got his vehicle stuck at Kibbe Park.
Instead of getting help, Police say Anderson stole another vehicle then tried to push his car. That ended with both vehicles getting stuck.
He was charged with grand larceny and possession of hypodermic needles.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is making a major push to decriminalize marijuana across the nation.
Schumer says that ultimately, it’s the right thing to do.
He’s introducing the bill next week which, if passed, would remove marijuana from the DEA’s list of controlled substances.
Schumer said he’s never tried pot and may be too old to, but “who knows.”

Press Release:

A Statement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) on Gov. Cuomo’s Executive Order granting paroled felons voting rights

“The governor is so desperate to appeal to the radical left as his election approaches that he has now granted conditional pardons to roughly 35,000 convicts on parole, a shameful move that flies in the face of every law-abiding citizen who has done the right thing and followed the law.

“Despite the governor’s radical interpretation, paying your debt to society and earning back the ability to exercise our most cherished right, voting, should not be granted until a felon is completely off parole and has been rehabilitated.

“It is obvious Gov. Cuomo will go to great lengths to win an election but I never thought it would involve pandering to rapists, murderers and arsonists. This governor seems to be fonder of helping inmates and convicted felons instead of hardworking, law-abiding citizens.”

Press Release:

Genesee Community College’s Nursing Program produces qualified and skilled candidates for positions in the healthcare each year. Under the direction of the Alumni Affairs Office, the Nursing Program Alumni are working hard to help qualified Nursing Program students overcome financial obstacles.

The GCC Nursing Alumni Committee established a new scholarship opportunity for future Nursing Program students to help mitigate financial obstacles to GCC student success. The entire community is invited to kick off National Nurses Week at the Batavia Downs on Friday, May 4, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. for the first annual Gatsby Gala to support the GCC Nursing Alumni Scholarship.

The event will open at 5:30 p.m. for guests to register. A delicious sit-down dinner with a cash bar will begin at 6 p.m. during which, Emcee Scott Gardner, President of the Wyoming County Chamber of Commerce will introduce GCC’s Director of the Nursing Program Laurel Sanger; Chase Hughes of Buffalo, NY who will testify to the difference qualified and passionate nurses made for him and his family; and Jennifer Sonricker of Warsaw, NY who will share her journey battling her daughter’s cancer.

At 7:15 p.m. all guests have chances to win big with door prizes and a cash raffle! The evening will conclude with a beautiful dessert and dancing the night away to the DJ talents of students from GCC’s radio station 90.7 WGCC.

Tickets are on sale now! RSVP online at https://www.genesee.edu/home/offices/alumni/alumni-events/gatsbygala/. You can also contact the Alumni Affairs Office at alumni@genesee.edu directly. Tickets to the Gatsby Gala cost $100 per person and all proceeds go directly to the GCC Nursing Alumni Scholarship.

The Nursing Scholarship is generously sponsored by the following:

Bronze Sponsors:

Summit Family Dental Care
Laurel Sanger
Jerilyn Constantino
Brenda Schiavone
Michelle Grohs
Jeffrey Erickson Law Office

In-Kind Supporters:

Bobette and Dan McCormick
Tops Friendly Markets in Warsaw
Healing Hands Massage & Spa, LLC
Steuben Trust Company
Envision Salon & Spa
Michelle Grohs
Jeffrey Erickson Law Office

Additional Donations:

Robert O. Holley

There are still opportunities available to sponsor Nursing Program scholarships at many levels. For online details go to: https://www.genesee.edu/home/offices/alumni/alumni-events/gatsbygala/ which offers commitments of $100 – $3,000 and also includes In-kind Support for those wishing to customize their sponsorship. All sponsorship levels include a variety of benefits from free advertising to photos, and GCC Foundation recognition.

For more information, contact Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs Jennifer Wakefield at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6265, or via email at jgwakefield@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

Article by Laurel Sanger, RN Genesee Community College Director of Nursing

With nearly three million nurses currently working in the United States today, it is hard to believe-but healthcare occupations and industries are projected to have the fastest growing employment rate through 2024. It is the right time to consider a career as a nurse, aide, therapist or medical technician. Genesee Community College has degrees in Nursing, Physical Therapy Assistant, Polysomnographic Technology (the study of sleep disorders), Respiratory Care and Veterinary Technology providing a variety of pathways to launch a life-long, well-paying career in healthcare.

Honoring National Nurses Week, which runs from May 6 – May 12, 2018, GCC is excited to announce the establishment of its newest scholarship benefiting nursing students. To support the scholarship, which was founded by the GCC Nursing Alumni Committee, the College is hosting the First Annual Gatsby Gala on May 4, 2018 at The Batavia Downs. The Gala is being organized by a committee of GCC Nursing Alumni to support new scholarship opportunities.

The new GCC Nursing Alumni Scholarship will help current students overcome financial obstacles and graduate as qualified and prepared candidates to meet the overwhelming workforce need of the healthcare industry in our community. To attend the Gala, or contribute to the scholarship, contact alumni@genesee.edu.

As nursing is one of the highest in-demand jobs across the country, GCC’s Nursing Associate Degree prepares students to take the national Registered Nurse (RN) licensing examination. New legislation in New York State now requires all RNs to earn a bachelor’s degree within ten years of their licensure. With the College’s robust transfer opportunities, articulation agreements and the seamless SUNY transfer system, GCC nursing students and graduates are well-aligned for long-term career success.

In 2010, GCC established its new Nursing Department within the newly opened Dr. Bruce A. Holm Upstate MedTech Centre located across the street from GCC’s Batavia Campus. Students gain hands-on practical experience in this facility using state-of-the-art labs and medical equipment. Nursing students apply classroom lessons and theory to high fidelity simulators (their patients). Using these manufactured human replicas, the students learn about making comprehensive nursing assessments and follow-up with interventions that demonstrate real medical procedures, techniques and treatment.

While today’s students and nursing faculty enjoy modern teaching and learning tools, GCC’s Nursing Program has been making a difference in the lives of patients and hospitals, near and far, for more than 40 years. One of the first graduates from the program, Janet Ivison, Class of 1974, came to GCC with a passion to take care of others, including her own family. Janet found exactly what she needed at GCC. With the flexibility of night time classes and the mini 1-2 week long courses, Janet earned her Nursing degree in two years, and then spent 14 years working in a local emergency room and 10 years at Genesee County Health Department where she really felt she made a difference working as a nurse.

“I remember a young girl who had been injured walking on the railroad tracks. She was unresponsive with no pulse, but I wouldn’t give up,” Janet recalls. “We saved her young life that day and I will never forget it.”

The emergency room brought a variety of patients and injuries through the years, but she enjoyed the challenge and still remembers many incidents. “I’ve always felt called to care for others and seeing those I’ve treated go on has been such a rewarding experience. Several years ago, a young man showed up at my door with flowers to thank me. I had been at the Genesee County Fair the night he had fallen while wrestling with some friends in the horse barns. I sat on the ground and braced his broken neck until an ambulance arrived.”

Though some days working as a nurse can be draining and demanding, most find the overall profession not only fulfilling and rewarding, but it provides a solid means to support their own family with unlimited career options and incredible advancement opportunities. Nurses can choose to focus on specialties–from neonatal to geriatric, surgery to emergency, podiatry to pediatrics-there are many areas to study. For those who prefer variety – there’s family medicine. The nursing profession offers a wide array of work schedules, from daytime to evening to per diem. Nursing jobs are available around the world, in a variety of different settings and many nurses continue their education to become healthcare administrators, nurse practitioners or nurse educators.

To support the nurses of tomorrow in the Genesee, Livingston, Orleans or Wyoming County community, attend or support the Gatsby Gala on Friday, May 4, 2018 at 5:30 at the Batavia Downs. All proceeds go to the student scholarship fund. For details call 585-343-0055 est. 6265 or go to:

https://www.genesee.edu/home/offices/alumni/alumni-events/gatsbygala/.

Finally, GCC would like to encourage the community to share stories celebrating the difference nurses have made in their lives during this special recognition week.

• Did you receive outstanding healthcare treatment from nurse?
• Did a nurse inspire the recovery of a friend or family member?
• Has the nursing profession made an impact on your family?

Send your story to marcom@genesee.edu and the College’s Marketing and Communications Office will post the stories on its social media channels. Please be sure to include your name and contact information.

Press Release:

An innovative restaurant incubator on Main Street is ready to officially welcome its first tenant and introduce a unique concept to Batavia’s restaurant scene.

Eden Café & Bakeshop, a restaurant featuring a 100% vegan menu, will celebrate its Grand Opening on Sunday, April 22 starting at Noon. The celebration will feature refreshments from Noon-2 p.m., followed by a ribbon cutting, after which the kitchen will be available for meal orders. There will be gifts for the first 25 guests, caricature drawings beginning at 2:30, and the chance to win a pair of Cutco knives. Eden is the first eatery to occupy one of the FreshLAB incubator kitchens inside the new Eli Fish Brewing Company, 109 Main Street.

Eden offers a unique menu of vegan dishes, including Carrot Dogs; artisan cheeses; drinks, including fresh juices and smoothies; and a variety of delicious desserts. All menu items are made using only plant-based foods, with no meat, dairy, eggs or honey.

“We’re really excited to grow something new in Batavia and to introduce some unique new flavors to the area,” said Judy Hysek, owner of Eden Café & Bakeshop. “Being part of FreshLAB is helping our dreams come true, and opening on Earth Day seemed to be a natural fit.”

The kitchen for Eden will be open six days a week from Noon-9 p.m. Eden will be closed on Tuesdays. For more information, visit Eden’s Facebook page facebook.com/BataviaEden.

The FreshLAB restaurant incubator features a total of three commercial kitchens. Eli Fish Brewing Company operates the largest kitchen, serving a menu of locally-sourced seasonal fare, including gourmet salads, sandwiches, soups, platters and bread. Eden is the first of two start-up restaurateurs chosen for the other kitchens, with the overall goal to develop and grow more dining concepts within Genesee County. The vision is to have tenants occupy the turnkey kitchens for short-term leases of approximately 18-24 months, sharing the food hall dining room during which time they can focus on unique menu offerings, sourcing local ingredients and honing their operational systems, such as ordering product and paying their bills. The second FreshLAB eatery, The Wild Rican, is expected to open in May.

“Eden is exactly the type of operation that FreshLAB was created for,” said Matthew Gray, one of the owners of Eli Fish Bewing Company. “The idea is to bring a diverse range of concepts and tastes together in one space and to help aspiring restaurateurs establish a vibrant dining climate in Batavia and Genesee County.”

The opening of Eden Café & Bakeshop marks the latest milestone in the rebirth of the former JJ Newberry building at 109 Main Street. Last month, the owners of Eli Fish Brewing Company celebrated their official grand opening as the cornerstone of the $2.8 million redevelopment, which will also feature apartments on the building’s second and third floors. Eli Fish Brewing Company is led by Batavia natives Gray, owner of Alex’s Place in Batavia, as well as Buffalo Brothers Pizza and Wing Co. in North Carolina; Jon Mager, a third-generation owner in Arctic Refrigeration in Batavia; and Matthew Boyd, a partner in both Alex’s and Buffalo Brothers Pizza and Wing Co., who oversees Buffalo Brothers’ five North Carolina locations.

Eli Fish Brewing Company features 20 taps, offering their own beers brewed in-house and selections from around New York State. Along with New York beers, the bar also pours craft cocktails and fine wines, all sourced from New York State wineries and distilleries. The brewery operation is a seven-barrel system, with all brewing to be performed on site, using locally-sourced ingredients.

The redevelopment of the Newberry building is being supported by the City of Batavia, Batavia Development Corp., Genesee County Economic Development Corporation, USDA Rural Development, National Grid and New York Main Street.

Eli Fish Brewing Company is open seven days a week. Hours of operation are Monday-Thursday from 11am-10pm, Friday and Saturday from 11am-11pm, and Sunday from Noon-9pm. For more information, visit elifishbrewing.com.

Mother and Son in Kendall Killed by possible gas poisoning.
A mother and her son were found dead of possible carbon monoxide poisoning by Kendall firefighters following report of a gas leak at their home.
38 year old Joan Gillman and her 14 year old son Richard Jr. were found dead at their residence in Kendall Wednesday night.
According to investigators they were using a portable generator and propane powered appliances to heat the home after power to the duplex had been shut off days prior.
Orleans County deputies are investigating and questions have arisen on why the power was cut during the winter like conditions.
National Grid has yet to comment on why the power had been shut off.
City of Batavia Fire Chief Steve Napolitano weighed in on the sad story on WBTA’s Main and Center program yesterday morning …

Napolitano said residents should call the fire department anytime their CO2 detector alarms so they can properly assess if there’s a real danger of leaking gas.
Grief counselors will be on site at Kendall Central School today where Richard Gilman was a 9th grade student.

A drive on drugs through the park ends badly for a Batavia resident.
Early on Tuesday morning 36 year old Jason Anderson of South Main Street apparently got his vehicle stuck in the mud at Kibbe Park.
Instead of seeking help, Anderson allegedly stole another vehicle then tried to push his vehicle out which resulted in both vehicles getting stuck in the mud.
He was also accused of possessing hypodermic needles and was arrested and charged with Grand Larceny, Criminal Mischief, Criminal Possession of a Hypodermic Instrument and DWAI by drugs.
Anderson was jailed in lieu of bail.

Governor Cuomo is facing a federal lawsuit for not declaring a special election after the death of Congresswoman Louise Slaughter.
The longtime Western New York representative died last month but some local voters filed the lawsuit this week.
The suit claims it’s unconstitutional for the governor not to call for a special election.
The suit is also targeting the state board of elections and the Monroe County board of elections.

The new Bills schedule is out and they may face some challenges.
They open the 2018 season September ninth facing the Ravens in Baltimore.
Half the games Buffalo is scheduled to play are against teams that won more than half of their games last year.
The Bills have one Monday night football game this year playing the Patriots just before Halloween.

Orleans County authorities are looking into the apparent carbon monoxide deaths of a Kendall woman and her teenage son.
The bodies of 38 year old Joan Gilman and her 14 year old son Richard –RJ – Gilman were discovered in an upstairs bedroom of their Center Road home.
The sheriff said the electricity to the home had been turned off a few days ago.
The Gilmans had been using a portable generator and propane powered appliances.

Batavia Fire Chief Steve Napolitano – on WBTA’s Main and Center program this morning – talked about the potential dangers of such devises

Grief counselors were available today at Kendall Central School where RJ Gilman was a 9th grade student. The school superintendent said that RJ displayed an infectious sense of humor and an endearing personality.

Four people are injured after a crash on Route 33 in Corfu.
Deputies say a North Carolina man was drunk and speeding when he rear-ended another car yesterday afternoon.
The road was shut down for several hours.
The injuries are not life threatening.

Governor Andrew Cuomo says New York State will provide more help to Puerto Rico as the island continues to recover from Hurricane Maria.
He says New York is stepping in because the federal government has not:
Several people from the New York Power Authority are on the way to Puerto Rico to help with power restoration after the entire island suffered a power outage.

The Department of Motor Vehicles office in Batavia is generally regarded as one of the friendliest in the state.
But deputies say an Oakfield man had some kind of beef with the agency.
65 year old George Norway of North Pearl Street was arrested for allegedly leaving an alarming note with a DMV employee.

65 year old George Norway of North Pearl Street in Oakfield has been arrested and charged with Aggravated Harassment following an investigation into an incident at the Department of Motor Vehicles on 15 Main Street Batavia.

Norway is accused of leaving a message which caused substantial alarm to the employees’ safety.

He was arraigned and released with an appearance ticket for May 5th in Batavia City Court.

Press Release:

The Genesee County Sheriffs Office is investigating a three car motor vehicle accident that occurred on Route 33 in the area of 58 West Main Street in the Village of Corfu. The Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center received the 9-1-1 call reporting the personal injury accident at 5:02 PM.

Upon arrival, patrols identified operators of all three vehicles. The first vehicle involved was a 2009 Honda Civic traveling westbound operated by a James M. Hoskins of Corfu, NY. The second vehicle involved was a 2008 Hyundai Sonata also traveling westbound operated by a Jacob J. Szumigala of Oakfield, NY. The third and final vehicle was a 2018 GMC Canyon traveling eastbound operated by Gerald D. Sanders with passenger, Lynn Sanders of Batavia, NY.

The 2008 Hyundai approached the 2009 Honda from behind at a high rate of speed, striking the rear end of the Honda. The impact sent the Honda into the eastbound lane and was struck by the oncoming 2018 GMC Canyon. The Hyundai operated by Szumigala continued west, coming to rest along the south shoulder of Route 33.

Szumigala was found to be under the influence of alcohol/ drugs. Szumigala was subsequently arrested for driving while intoxicated and transported to Erie County Medical Center for minor injuries. Several charges are pending following the results of a toxicology report of Szumigala’ s blood and a full investigation is completed. The occupants of the other vehicles were also transported to Erie County Medical Center for injuries sustained during the motor vehicle crash.

The crash was investigated by Undersheriff Gregory Walker, Chief Joseph Graff, Sergeant Jason Saile, Sergeant Andrew Hale, Deputies Kyle Krzemien and Robert Henning. Assisting at the scene were members of the Corfu Fire Department, Mercy EMS, and Ron and Newts Towing Agency.

Press Release:

The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office is currently conducting an investigating into the circumstances involving the death of a mother and son in the Town of Kendall.
Orleans County Undersheriff Christopher Bourke reported that on 4/18/18 at 7:27 pm, the Orleans County Sheriff’s 911 Center received a report of a propane gas leak at 2245 Center Road. Kendall Fire Department was dispatched and upon arrival discovered two bodies in an upstairs bedroom.

The deceased individuals were identified as Joan C. Gilman age 38 and her son Richard J. Gilman Jr. age 14. The Sheriff’s Office learned that the electrical powered had been turned off at the duplex a few days ago and a portable generator was being used along with some propane powered appliances during this period of time.

Both victims were transported to the Monroe County Medical Examiner’s Office. The Sheriff’s Office will continue the investigation and piece together the chain of events that led up to this tragedy.

Assisting the Sheriff’s Office in this investigation are; The Kendall Fire Department, The Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force, The New York State Police Forensic Identification Unit, Town of Kendall Code Enforcement, Investigators from the New York State Academy of Fire Science and the Orleans County Coroner’s Office.

Suspect sought in Sunset Motel Murder.
The woman found murdered in a Town of Batavia motel room on Monday has been identified as 58 year old Sheri C Butler.
Investigators from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office said Butler died from a puncture wound to the neck from an unknown murder weapon.
An autopsy uncovered that her carotid artery was severed and she had bled to death.
Chief Deputy Jerome Brewster made an appeal to community members who may have information that could assist their investigation…

Undersheriff Greg Walker said law enforcement first encountered Butler at the Sunset motel in January 2014 and they have some history with her.
The sheriff’s office reported late yesterday that Butler’s family had been notified of her murder.

Oakfield man facing charges following a three car crash in Corfu.
The accident occurred on West Main Street just after 5 yesterday evening with reports of multiple personal injury.
The crash occurred when a westbound 2008 Hyundai Sonata rear-ended a 2009 Honda Civic at a high rate of speed sending the Honda into an eastbound 2018 GMC Canyon.
Undersheriff Greg Walker was on the scene …

The driver of the Hyundai Sonata, Jacob J. Szumigala of Oakfield was allegedly under the influence of alcohol/ drugs and was subsequently taken into custody for DWI.
Several other charges are possible pending results of a toxicology report, and a full investigation into the crash.
Everyone involved in the accident were taken to ECMC for various injuries.

Gas leak leads to grim discovery of a dead Mother and son in Kendall.
Following a report of a propane gas leak at a Center Road residence in Kendal, Kendall Firefighters discovered two bodies in an upstairs bedroom of after being dispatched to the address.
Firefighters found 38 year old Joan C. Gilman and her 14 year old son Richard J. Gilman Jr. both deceased from a possible gas leak.
According to the Sheriff’s Office a portable generator was being used in the home along with some propane powered appliances after the electrical power had been shut off at the duplex several days prior.
The Orleans County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the tragic incident.

Field preparations are on hold as the Batavia Muckdogs get ready for the 2018 season.
Muckdogs General Manager Dave Chase the organization is gaining momentum as they gear up for another season of professional baseball in Batavia.

The Muckdogs have a new working phone number. It is 483 – DOGS.
Tickets for the June 18th opening are expected to go on sale around May 1st.

The woman found murdered in a Town of Batavia motel room on Monday has been identified.
She is 58 year old Sheri C Butler. She died from a puncture wound to the neck.
The murderweapon is unknown, but it severed her carotid artery and caused the woman to bleed to death.
Butler lived at the Sunset Motel for some time something Chief Deputy Jerome Brewster hopes that may help the investigation

Deputies said law enforcement was familiar with Butler. They first encountered her in January 2014.
Late this afternoon the sheriff’s office reported that Butler’s family had been located and informed of her murder.

Muckdogs GM Dave Chase

Field preparations are on hold as the Batavia Muckdogs get ready for the 2018 season.
Muckdogs General Manager Dave Chase the organization is gaining momentum as they gear up for another season of professional baseball in Batavia.

The Muckdogs have a new working phone number. It is 483 – DOGS.
Tickets for the June 18th opening are expected to go on sale around May 1st.

People getting out of jail on parole in New York State will now be able to vote. Governor Cuomo signed an executive order today giving parolees the right to vote. Cuomo says it’s unconscionable to deny voting to people who have paid their debt and have re-entered society. There are roughly 35,000 New Yorkers on parole right now who cannot vote.

The bishop of Buffalo’s Catholic diocese is selling the mansion he lives in to help pay victims of sexually abusive priests.
Bishop Malone has said that no donations will be used to settle sex abuse claims. The diocese says settlements will be paid for by the sale of properties, insurance coverage and investment reserves

According to the Muckdogs General Manager Dave Chase the organization is gaining momentum as they gear up for another season of professional baseball in Batavia.

Chase says the ball-field is still his top priority…

Chase said the field should take 5 to 7 days to complete repairs.

In the meantime the Muckdogs have a new working phone number in place at (585) 483 – DOGS (3647), and are having new computers along with wifi and broadband internet from Empire Access installed today.

Tickets for the June 18th opening are expected to go on sale around May 1st.