Local News

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.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office has identified 58 year old Sherri C. Butler as the victim of a homicide at the Sunset Motel in Batavia.

In a news conference this morning Undersheriff Gregory Walker confirmed that Butler was found deceased in the motel room just before noon on Monday by owners of the Sunset Motel.

An autopsy revealed Butler had died from a puncture wound to the neck from an unknown murder weapon.

Walker said she was last seen either late Friday or early Saturday and her absence prompted the owners to check her welfare.

Chief Deputy Jerome Brewster made an appeal to others in the community who may have information that can help their investigation…

According to Undersheriff Walker, Butler had a history with law enforcement and they believe she was a resident of the motel for several years as they recorded their first had contact with her at the address in January of 2014.

Officers said there was evidence that suggested some movement occurred before her death, but they declined to comment on if there was any evidence of robbery or sexual assault.

Along with searching for a murder suspect, Investigators are still trying to locate Butler’s next of kin if there is one.

News Release

As part of this year’s budget passed on March 31, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that new regulations have been put in place to increase flexibility in Lake Ontario’s relief program.

“Residents and businesses across Lake Ontario’s shoreline are still struggling to recover after Lake Ontario’s historic flooding last year, and I am proud to announce that we fought diligently in this year’s budget to free up funding to allow the recovery process to continue,” Hawley said. “A total of $12.5 million will be sent to homeowners in Cayuga, Monroe and Wayne counties and $4 million has been allocated to homeowners in Orleans County for flood recovery efforts.”

Hawley was one of the first state officials to tour the flooding along Lake Ontario’s shoreline firsthand and was instrumental in fighting for a state relief package as part of last year’s end of session agreement.

“I will continue to fight for more funding and financial flexibility throughout the duration of session to see that all affected residents receive the aid they so desperately deserve,” Hawley continued. “Please feel free to contact my office for more information or questions on this program, and know that I am with you every step of the way,”

Motel Murder in Batavia under investigation.
A woman was found dead in a room at the Sunset Motel in Batavia and now the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is searching for the person who possibly murdered her.
Deputies received a report of an unresponsive woman found in the motel on West Main Street Road shortly before noon on Monday and first responders reported that the woman was already deceased when they arrived.
Deputies deemed the circumstances of the death suspicious and they determined they were investigating a homicide.
The hotel room was treated as a crime scene and the medical examiner ruled the death as a homicide.
An autopsy revealed that the woman died from a “sharp force trauma to the carotid artery.”
Investigators say they are working on leads and also on locating the woman’s next of kin before identifying her.
More information on the case is expected from the Sheriff’s Office later this morning.

Warsaw man accused of possessing a multitude of Child Porn.
According to State Police, 31 year old Kory A. Doyle of Warsaw was under investigation by their department for child porn possession since last March.
Troops say they were tipped off that Doyle had allegedly uploaded numerous images of child porn to the Internet by an Internet Service company early last year.
State Police stationed in Warsaw and Batavia allegedly found him in possession of a multitude images and videos containing child porn.
Doyle was arraigned in Warsaw Village Court and was ordered to be held in lieu of $25,000 bail in the Wyoming County Jail.

Funding is approved for upgrades to three Genesee County bridges.
The project fund for replacement of the Searls Road bridge over Spring Creek, Pratt Road bridge and Stroh Road bridge all received funding through federal grants and will be widened to meet federal standards according to County Highways Superintendent Tim Hens.

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 but “The Buffalo News” says in one way or another, area Catholics are paying.
The diocese says settlements will be paid for by the sale of properties, insurance coverage and investment reserves, all of which the paper says traces back to the wallets of local Catholics.
Yesterday Bishop Malone announced he was putting the Oakland Place bishop’s mansion on the market.

The death of a woman whose body was found in a room at the Sunset Motel in the Town of Batavia is being investigated as a homicide.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office said they received a call shortly before Noon Monday of an unresponsive woman found in a room at the motel.
First responders found the woman dead.
Deputies said the circumstances of the death were suspicious and the room was processed as a crime scene.
An autopsy later found that the woman died from a “sharp force trauma to the carotid artery.”
The manner of death was determined to be a homicide.
The woman’s identity is known to law enforcement and efforts are now underway to locate her next of kin.

A Warsaw man has been accused of possessing and promoting child pornography.
31 year old Kory A. Doyle has been under investigation by state police since last March. Troopers say they were tipped off by an Internet Service company that Doyle had allegedly uploaded numerous images of child porn to the Internet.
Doyle was arraigned in Warsaw Village Court and was ordered to be held in lieu of $25,000 bail in the Wyoming County Jail.

Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul isn’t going to challenge Congressman Chris Collins this election.
“The Buffalo News” reports that Governor Cuomo’s associates made a series of calls this weekend entertaining the idea of her replacing Democrat Nathan McMurray in the 27th Congressional District race. Hochul’s camp says that she expects to be Governor Cuomo’s running mate this year.

The NFL Draft is coming up and the Bills might need to make some more moves to snag a top quarterback.
Yesterday in a pre-draft press conference, Bills GM Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott said the team would be okay if it didn’t pick up a franchise quarterback.
Many disagree and SBNation.com speculates that the Bills might want to try to cut a deal with the Giants for the second overall pick.
Some think the choice quarterbacks could be taken before the Bills get a bite at the apple.

The death of a woman whose body was found in a room at the Sunset Motel int he Town of Batavia is being investigated as a homicide.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office said they received a call shortly before Noon yesterday of an unresponsive woman in a room at the motel.
When first responders arrived on scene, they found the woman dead/

Deputies said the circumstances of the death were suspicious and location was processed as a crime scene.
An autopsy later found that the woman died from a “sharp force trauma to the carotid artery.” The manner of death was determined to be a homicide.

The woman’s identity is known and efforts are underway to locate her next of kin for notification purposes.

News Release

While there may still be flurries in the air and icy sidewalks, the Alumni Affairs Office at Genesee Community College is thinking about golf! Registration is now open for the third annual Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble scheduled for Monday, July 23, 2018 at the Stafford Country Club, 8873 Morganville Road (Rte. 237) in Stafford.

The Cougar Classic Scholarship Scramble allows up to 36 foursomes for the 18-hole event at the esteemed Stafford Country Club. Sign-in starts 11:30 a.m. with lunch available, and golfers tee off in “shotgun” style at 12:30 p.m. Registration is $125 per golfer and includes 18 holes of golf, a golf cart, all beer and nonalcoholic beverages during play, lunch and dinner with a cash bar, and much more! To join the event for dinner only is $25. Most importantly, all proceeds go directly to GCC student scholarship program, making higher education possible for deserving students in our community.

The registration deadline for golfers is June 15, 2018. Contact Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs Jennifer Wakefield at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6265 or via email at jgwakefiled@genesee.edu. The golfer registration form is also available online at https://www.genesee.edu/assets/file/alumni/Cougar-Classic-Player-Registration.pdf.

Additional opportunities to sponsor GCC scholarships are available at a number of levels ranging from $100 to $3,000. Sponsorships for golf games, including a putting contest, longest drive, closest to the pin, and beat the pro and other in-kind support efforts are also being accepted. A sponsorship sign-up form with all donation details is available at https://www.genesee.edu/assets/file/alumni/Cougar-Classic-Sponsorship-Sign-Up.pdf and should be sent to Jennifer Wakefield at jgwakefiled@genesee.edu to reserve a sponsorship level.

Additional information is available at https://www.genesee.edu/home/offices/alumni/alumni-events/cougar-classic/ or by contacting Assistant Director of Alumni Affairs Jennifer Wakefield at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6265 or via email at jgwakefiled@genesee.edu.

News Release: 

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

“As the retrial of corrupt former Speaker Sheldon Silver hangs over the state, it is shocking that New York City politicians would consciously vote to block the most comprehensive ethics reform package in state history – the Public Officers Accountability Act.

“It is a grave disservice to taxpayers that Assembly leadership continues to vote down and bury legislation that may have prevented corrupt thieves like Sheldon Silver and Dean Skelos from committing crimes.

“What we need is an end to Gov. Cuomo’s bid-rigging culture, term limits for legislative leaders, stronger income disclosure requirements and an end to lawmakers using campaign contributions as a golden parachute. Taxpayers deserve a more honest and faithful government.”

Kory A. Doyle

News Release: NYSP

On April 16, 2018 the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) stationed at SP Warsaw arrested Kory A. Doyle, 31, Warsaw, NY for Promoting a Sexual Performance by a Child Under Age 17 (Class D Felony) and Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child Under Age 16 (Class E Felony).

Between January 16, 2017 and March 21, 2017, Kory Doyle uploaded numerous images of sexual performances of a child to the Internet. On March 22, 2017 an Internet service company as a result of this activity alerted the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) and they alerted law enforcement.

Pursuant to a lengthy criminal investigation by the SP Warsaw BCI and the New York State Police Computer Crime Unit, SP Batavia, Doyle was found to possess a multitude of photos and videos of sexual performances of children.

Doyle was arrested and arraigned by Justice William Blythe in the village of Warsaw Court. Doyle was then remanded to the Wyoming County Jail in lieu of $25,000/$50,000 bail/bond. Doyle is scheduled to reappear in court on April 19, 2018.

Forecasters ease flooding concerns and lift flood watch for the region.
The Flood Watch for much of Western New York including the entire GLOW region has been cancelled by the National Weather Service after experiencing a milder Monday than predicted.
Creeks and rivers are still expected to crest near flood stage in some areas over the next few days according to the Weather Service.
They say the chance of widespread flooding doesn’t seem to be a probability now.

Michael Piasta

Alleged armed Arby’s robber behind bars in Batavia.
Following investigation into an armed robbery at the Batavia Arby’s late last month, Police arrested 37 year old Michael Piasta of East Main Street.
Piasta allegedly displayed what appeared to be a handgun and threatened employees after entering the restaurant shortly after closing time.
Police said he stole $6,000 in the hold up.
Piasta has been jailed without bail.

A short rundown of the Batavia Police Blotter.
36 year old Amanda Havens of Munson Street in LeRoy was arrested and charged with Conspiracy and Petit Larceny.
She’s accused of stealing gas from the Tops Supermarket in Batavia and is expected to appear in City Court today.
Following a disturbance at a lower apartment at a residence on Dellinger Ave, police have arrested 27 year old Leroy Thornton of Niagara Falls for Harassment.
Thornton was accused of threatening another person in the disturbance and was subsequently released with an appearance ticket for April 24th in Batavia City Court.

A SUNY Binghamton student accused of stabbing fellow student to death.
20 year old Michael Roque of Long Island has been accused of stabbing 19 year old freshman Joao Sousa to death in a dorm room Sunday night.
He was arrested yesterday shortly after police released cryptic surveillance images of the attacker in the dorm.
Roque who was a fellow BU student is being held without bail in the Broome County jail.
This is the second SUNY Binghamton student murdered this year.

Democrats smell blood in New York’s Congressional waters.
A ranking official with the Democratic National Campaign Committee says several Republican Congressional seats in New York are vulnerable next election.
Chris Collins’ district is just one of seven seats listed as New York districts the DCCC is targeting this year.
Democrats need to pick up at least two-dozen seats to reclaim House majority.

The NFL Draft is coming up and the Bills might need to make some more moves to snag a top quarterback.
Yesterday in a pre-draft press conference, Bills GM Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott said the team would be okay if it didn’t pick up a franchise quarterback.
Many disagree and SBNation.com speculates that the Bills might want to try to cut a deal with the Giants for the second overall pick.
Some think the choice quarterbacks could be taken before the Bills get a bite at the apple.

The National Weather Service has cancelled a Flood Watch for Genesee County and much of Western New York.
The Weather Service says that while some area creeks and rivers are still forecast to crest near flood stage over the next couple of days, the likelihood of widespread flooding has significantly diminished.

Buffalo Bills Hall of Fame Quarterback Jim Kelly is out and about.
Kelly had surgery to remove a cancerous tumor from his jaw less than three weeks ago in New York City.
This weekend he was discharged from the hospital but is staying in New York to recover.

Michael Piasta

A Batavia man charged with holding up the Arby’s Restaurant late last month.
37 year old Michael Piasta of East Main Street is accused of entering the restaurant shortly after closing time, threatening employees with what appeared to be a handgun, and making off with 6-thosuand dollars.
Piasta is being held without bail.

An Olean man is accused of driving under the influence and attacking an Attica police officer. Police say they were trying to help David Woods whose car had run into a ditch in Attica. He was tased after allegedly punching officer Karl Zufall in the face. Woods was jailed in Wyoming County on $25,000 bail.
Officer Zufall was treated and released for his injuries at Wyomig County Community Hospital. Officials said Zufall will be out of work for a period of time.

Democrats smell blood in New York’s Congressional waters.
A ranking official with the Democratic National Campaign Committee says several Republican Congressional seats in New York are vulnerable next election.
Chris Collins’ district is just one of seven seats listed as New York districts the DCCC is targeting this year. Democrats need to pick up at least two-dozen seats to reclaim House majority.

News Release: Attica Police Dept.

On Thursday, April 12, 2018 at about 5:15 pm the Attica Fire Department and the Wyoming County Sheriff Office was dispatched to a motor vehicle accident with injuries on Dunbar Road near the Wyoming Correctional Facility in the Town of Attica. Officer Karl Zufall responded to assist at the scene and determine the number and extent of injuries.

Upon arrival he was met by David F. Woods Jr. who was standing in the road way. Initially Officer Zufall had Woods sit in his patrol car to await the ambulance arrival. Officer Zufall was asked to retrieve some personal items from the vehicle by Woods. Officer Zufall attempted to gain entry to the vehicle however was unsuccessful due to the position of the vehicle. When Officer Zufall returned Woods became irate and attacked Officer Zufall. Woods struck Officer Zufall in the chest and face multiple times, Officer Zufall ordered Woods to get back several times and was then forced to deployed a tazer. The tazer had no effect on Woods, Woods continually attacked Officer Zufal when, as Officer Zufall attempted to take Woods into custody, members of Wyoming County Emergency Management and the Attica Fire Department arrived and immediately went to Officer Zufalls assistance. Woods was taken into custody and handcuffed.

When Deputies arrived from the Wyoming County Sheriff Office Woods was being transferred into their custody when Woods attacked Officer Zufall again, striking Officer Zufall in the knee. Woods was restrained and placed into the awaiting deputies’ vehicle. Officer Zufall remained at the scene until Woods was transported by the deputies. Upon returning to the office, Officer Zufall began having trouble breathing and pain in the jaw and knee. An ambulance was requested and Officer Zufall was transported to the Emergency Department at Wyoming County Community Hospital for treatment of injuries to his knee, ribs, back, chest and jaw. Office Zufall was treated and released however, will be out of work for a period of time.

Woods was then charged by the Wyoming County Sheriff Office for Assault 2nd, Attempted Assault 3rd, Obstruct Governmental Administration 2nd, Resisting Arrest, in addition to the vehicle and traffic charges and DWI charges which was the result of the motor vehicle accident.
Woods was released from Jail, just two days prior, (Tuesday, April 10th) on bail from charges resulting from a violent domestic. Woods has an extensive criminal history involving violent behavior and attacks to others.

Law Enforcement and First Responders, every day, put their lives in jeopardy to serve and protect the communities in which they work. A Police Officer responding to give assistance at a motor vehicle accident and then is violently attacked without provocation is unconceivable in most people minds however, this is exactly what happens. If it was not for the direct and immediate assistance by members of the Wyoming County Emergency Management Office and the Attica Fire Department Officer Zufall injuries would have been more extensive.

Attica Police Chief Dean Hendershott expressed his appreciation to the Deputies and Investigators of the Wyoming County Sheriff Office, Director Anthony Santoro of the Wyoming County Emergency Management Office and the members of the Attica Fire Department who assisted at the scene and who treated Office Zufall.

Press Release:

Warsaw, NY – April 14, 2018 – New York State Police in Warsaw are seeking public assistance in locating Adam K. Barber, age 39, of Bliss, NY. Barber was known to be at his residence on ST-362 in the Town of Eagle around April 3, 2018 and family members are concerned for his well being. Barber is known to camp in the outdoors and sometimes visits Letchworth State Park.

Barber was last seen wearing an olive-green pea coat and gray or white Nike sneakers. He is 5’09” tall and weighs approximately 170 lbs.

Anyone with information is asked to call the New York State Police at (585) 786-5152.

Weekend Weather leads to a Flood Watch for the region.
Much of Western New York, including counties along Lake Ontario are under a flood watch.
Forecasters say heavy rain along with melting snow could cause creeks and rivers to flood.
Around 1 to 1.5 inches of rain is expected through today which may result in minor river and creek flooding in a few locations.
The Tonawanda creek in Batavia is well below flood stage level at last check and is expected to crest at under six feet by tomorrow morning.
The flood watch will be in effect through tomorrow evening.

Suspected armed Arby’s robber is apprehended.
37 year old Michael Piasta Jr. of East Main Street in Batavia has been taken into custody by Police for the armed robbery of the Batavia restaurant on March 25th.
He is accused of stealing over $6,000 after holding up Arby’s employees with what appeared to be a hand gun.
Piasta was committed without bail to the Genesee County Jail.

State Police in Warsaw are asking for the public’s help in locating 39 year old Adam Barber, of Bliss.
Family members are concerned for his well-being after Barber went missing from his residence on State Route 362 in the Town of Eagle at the beginning of April.
Barber is known to camp outdoors and visits Letchworth State Park on occasion.

Julie Pacatte the Economic Development Director for Batavia, has resigned.
After working with the city for nearly six years Pacatte has accepted a new position with a private firm near Albany.
The EDC has credited Pacatte for playing a major role in Batavia’s 10-million dollar Downtown Revitalization grant and with being the driving force behind the Ellicott Station Project.

Chili man picked up for illegally picking up scrap metal in Stafford.
36 year old James Page was arrested and charged with Petit Larceny, Aggravated Unlicensed Operation and Use of a Motor Vehicle without an interlock device after an incident on Clinton Street Road in Stafford, Saturday night.
Deputies allegedly found Page loading scrap metal from a local business into his truck.
He was issued an appearance ticket for May 15th in Stafford Town Court.

An Attica police officer attacked after trying to help An Olean man out of a ditch.
Police say they were trying to help 46 year old David Woods, whose car had run into a ditch in Attica.
Woods allegedly punched the officer in the face before being tased, then later kicked him in the knee.
He was arrested and charged with Assault, Resisting Arrest and DWI along with various other charges.
Woods was remanded to the Wyoming County Jail in lieu of $25,000 bail.

Buffalo Bills Hall of Fame Quarterback Jim Kelly is out and about.
Kelly had surgery to remove a cancerous tumor from his jaw less than three weeks ago in New York City.
This weekend was discharged from the hospital but is staying there to recover.
Yesterday his wife Jill posted a video on Instagram of Kelly in a Bills fleece walking along the streets of New York.

• An Ice Storm Warning remains in effect until 2 this afternoon.
  Then, a Flood Watch takes effect from early tomorrow morning until Tuesday evening.
  Primary roads are wet and slush covered but quite passable.
  Secondary roads that have been treated are also wet and slushy.
  Sidewalks and parking lots that have not been treated are extremely slippery.
  The conditions have prompted these churches to cancel services for today:
  • St. James Episcopal, Batavia
  • Emanuel Baptist Church on Oak Street – services and religious education
  • First Baptist Church on East Main Street – today’s service and bible study cancelled
  • Oakfield First United Methodist Church
  • Bergen Evangelical Presbyterian Church
• Pentecostals of Genesee, Oak St.

UPDATE: Genesee Community College Batavia Campus, closed for today

The predicted power failures have not materialized, at least not yet.
National Grid reports no power failures in Genesee or Wyoming counties.
The New York State Thruway is reporting generally clear conditions in Western New York.
Genesee County Sheriff William Sheron has issued a Travel Advisory for all of Genesee County until later this afternoon.
Buffalo Niagara International and Rochester’s Monroe County Airport are showing several cancellations of departing flights this morning.
As always, it is best to check with your individual airlines for your flight status.

In other news this morning:
The suspected Batavia Arby’s Roast Beef bandit has been collared.
Batavia Police have arrested 37 year old Michael J. Piasta Jr of East Main Street in Batavia for the armed robbery which occurred at Arby’s back on March 25th.
He allegedly entered Arby’s with what appeared to be a hand gun and stole over $6000.00.
Piasta is now in the county jail without bail.

New York State Police in Warsaw are seeking public assistance in locating 39 year old Adam K. Barber, of Bliss, NY.
Barber was known to be at his residence on ST-362 in the Town of Eagle around April 3, 2018 and family members are concerned for his well-being. Barber is known to camp in the outdoors and sometimes visits Letchworth State Park.

The City of Batavia’s Economic Development Director, Julie Pacatte, has resigned.
Pacatte is taking a job with a private firm near Albany.
She has been with the city for almost six years.
Pacatte is credited with being the driving force behind the Ellicott Station Project and for playing a major role in Batavia’s 10-million dollar Downtown Revitalization grant.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) delivered roughly 2,000 signatures to Gov. Andrew Cuomo to demanding the repaving of Lake Ontario State Parkway between Kendall and Hamlin. It will be announced by the Department of Transportation (DOT) that $5.2 million worth of road repairs will begin soon. Hawley calls it an investment to improve safety and the accessibility of this important roadway.

“I am thrilled to announce that Lake Ontario State Parkway will be repaired by the Department of Transportation, and it’s due to the wonderful people in my district who helped send a message that we need safe roads in our community,” said Hawley. “We sent thousands of signatures to the governor to get this accomplished. I am looking forward to a safer road in the near future.”

The rough roadway caused significant issues with traffic and its continued maintenance is important to further support local tourism. Residents and Hawley called for these repairs in March 2016 and the DOT is expected to make an announcement on Monday.

Press Release:

ICE STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 2 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO 2 PM EDT SUNDAY…

* WHAT…Significant icing and gusty winds are expected. Total
ice accumulations of around one half are expected.

* WHERE…Niagara, Orleans, Monroe, Erie, Genesee, Wyoming, and
Livingston counties.

* WHEN…From 2 PM this afternoon to 2 PM EDT Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…Power outages and tree damage are likely
due to the strong winds and ice. Travel will be difficult at
times.

FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM LATE SUNDAY NIGHT THROUGH TUESDAY AFTERNOON…

The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a

* Flood Watch for western New York and the Genesee Valley.

* From late Sunday night through Tuesday afternoon.

* Moderate to heavy rain of 2 to 2.5 inches may result in
considerable runoff into area creeks and rivers.

* Small streams and creeks, low-lying and poor drainage areas, and
urban areas may see flooding problems develop as soon as early
Monday morning. However, larger streams and rivers will take
longer to respond with flooding possible later Monday into
Tuesday.

The deputy involved in Wednesday night’s fatal shooting is identified.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s office has identified the deputy involved in Wednesday night’s fatal shooting in Pembroke.
The deputy was Ryan W. Young, who has been with the sheriff’s office for two years and has a total of six years law enforcement experience.
Young had previously served with the LeRoy Police Department
In a written statement, Sheriff William Sheron said law enforcement officers

“go to work every day knowing that they may be required to sacrifice their own lives or take the life of another human being in order to protect the community. Deputy Young’s actions on Wednesday did just that.”

Deputy Young shot and killed 61 year old Keith Kent in the parking lot of the log Cabin restaurant after Kent pointed a handgun in the direction of the officer.

Arby’s alleged armed robber is arrested.
Police have arrested 37 year old Michael J. Piasta Jr of East Main Street in Batavia for the armed robbery which occurred at Arby’s in Batavia on March 25th.
Piasta was charged with Robbery, Criminal Possession of a Weapon and Grand Larceny.
He allegedly entered Arby’s with what appeared to be a hand gun and stole over $6,000. Piasta was remanded to the Genesee County Jail with no bail and is to re-appear in Batavia City Court on Monday.

The City of Batavia’s Economic Development Director, Julie Pacatte, has resigned.
Pacatte is taking a job with a private firm near Albany.
She has been with the city for almost six years.
Pacatte is credited with being the driving force behind the Ellicott Station Project and for playing a major role in Batavia’s 10-million dollar Downtown Revitalization grant.

Prosecutors say a former Wyoming County sheriff’s deputy charged with murder was accused of rape. Court papers say 60-year-old Joseph Mlyniec may have killed Robert Irvine in Perry to keep sex abuse allegations quiet.
Investigators say Mlyniec may have led a bisexual double life.

A Winter Weather Advisory turns into an Ice Storm Warning, then a Flood watch for the region.
The National Weather Service has up graded their Winter Weather Advisory for Genesee County and most of Western New York into an Ice Storm Warning from later this afternoon through tomorrow morning.
Then from late Sunday night through Tuesday afternoon a Flood Watch will be in effect for western New York and the Genesee Valley.
The weather Service warns of freezing rain and ice accumulation of nearly a half-inch and possible Power outages.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s office has identified the deputy involved in Wednesday night’s fatal shooting in Pembroke.
The deputy was Ryan Young, who has been with the sheriff’s office for two years and has a total of six years law enforcement experience.
In a statement released this afternoon, Sheriff’s William Sheron said law enforcement officers go to work every day knowing that they may be required to sacrifice their owns lives or take the life of another human being in order to fulfill their obligations to protecting the community. Deputy Young’s actions on Wednesday did just that.
Deputy Young shot and killed 61 year old Keith Kent in the parking lot of the log Cabin restaurant after Kent pointed a handgun in the direction of the officer.

The City of Batavia’s Economic Development Director, Julie Pacatte, has resigned.
Pacatte is taking a job with a private firm near Albany.
She has been with the city for almost six years.
Pacatte credited with being the driving force behind the Ellicott Station Project and for playing a major role in Batavia’s 10-million dollar Downtown Revitalization grant.

Prosecutors say a former Wyoming County sheriff’s deputy charged with murder was accused of rape. Court papers say 60-year-old Joseph Mlyniec may have killed Robert Irvine in Perry to keep sex abuse allegations quiet.
Investigators say Mlyniec may have led a bisexual double life.

The National Weather Service has posted a Winter Weather Advisory for Genesee County and most of Western New York from tomorrow afternoon through Sunday morning.
The weather Service warns of freezing rain and ice accumulation of nearly a half-inch.
Power outages are possible.

Deputy Ryan Young

The officer involved in Wednesday night’s shooting at the Indian Falls Log Cabin Restaurant as Deputy Ryan W. Young. Deputy Young is a six-year law enforcement officer that joined the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office in 2016. He previously served with the LeRoy Police Dept.

Sheriff William Sheron stated, “Law enforcement officers go to work every day knowing that they may be required to sacrifice their own lives, or take the life of another human being, in order to fulfill their obligation of protecting the citizens of our communities. Deputy Young’s actions on Wednesday night did just that.”

Press Release:

Fobbs Named NABC First-Team All-American

Brian Fobbs of the Genesee Community College men’s basketball team and a recently-committed recruit to Towson University was named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) NJCAA Division II All-American Team today, April 13.

Fobbs was the lone NJCAA Region-III recipient of the group and the lone representative from any NJCAA Division II team in the state of New York. Overall, nine states were represented with just Illinois having more than a single representative with two.

In addition to Fobbs, the 2018 NABC Coaches’ NJCAA Division II All-America Team also included: Kamari Bolton, North Arkansas; Catoni Collins, Lake County (IL); Tray Croft, Iowa Central; Quintin Dove, Cuyahoga (OH); Rashaad Goolsby, Phoenix (AZ); Walt Kelser, Schoolcraft (MI); Harlyn Owens II, Dakota County (MN); Holden Redparth, Highland (KS); and Deonta Terrell, Triton (IL).

The NABC Player of the Year came from the NJCAA Division-I ranks with Southern Idaho sophomore Charles Jones Jr. as its recipient.

Located in Kansas City, MO, the NABC was founded in 1927 by Forrest “Phog” Allen, the legendary basketball coach at the University of Kansas. Allen, a student of James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, organized coaches into this collective group to serve as Guardians of the Game. The NABC currently has nearly 5,000 members consisting primarily of university and college men’s basketball coaches. All members of the NABC are expected to uphold the core values of being a Guardian of the Game by bringing attention to the positive aspects of the sport of basketball and the role coaches play in the academic and athletic lives of today’s student-athletes. The four core values of being a Guardian of the Game are advocacy, leadership, service and education. Additional information about the NABC, its programs and membership, can be found at www.nabc.org.

Mark Jagord
GCC Sports Information

News Release: Batavia Development Corp

Julie Pacatte

The Batavia Development Corporation accepted the resignation of Julie Pacatte, Economic Development Director in charge of economic development for the city of Batavia. Ms. Pacatte has accepted a position for a private sector employer located in New York’s Capital District Region.

“To say that she will be missed is an understatement, Ms. Pacatte was instrumental in a number of initiatives to improve the economic environment in Batavia,” said Pierluigi Cipollone, President of the Batavia Development Corporation. “She has advanced economic development in the city to new levels and facilitated more than $30 million in pledged investment into the city,” said Cipollone.

Pacatte was successful in leading the way to develop the Batavia Pathway to Prosperity (BP2), a first in the state PILOT Increment Financing (PIF) district that diverts new PILOT payments from three tax jurisdictions (City, School, and County) to develop the most blighted and impoverished areas of the city. The program was developed following the city’s success in creating the Brownfield Opportunity Area and identifying sites primed for investment. These efforts lead to the attraction of $20 million investment pledge by Savarino Companies at the Ellicott Station brownfield site.

Pacatte lead efforts to craft the successful $10 million Downtown Redevelopment Initiative (DRI) application, was the driving force behind the BDC’s Public-Private Partnership, the freshLab restaurant incubator, as well as an administrator for loans and grants to aid new and existing businesses in the city.

She has helped bring the BDC to solid ground and advance our mission of new economic opportunities in the city of Batavia. The BDC still has much to do and will continue to work in the city helping small businesses, ensuring that the Savarino project can break ground this summer, working to advance development at Creek Park, assisting DRI project winners and working with all economic development partners in county and across the region.

“Thank you, Ms. Pacatte for your passionate efforts to make Batavia a better place to work, live and play and I wish you continued success in your future pursuits,” said Cipollone.

Brian Fobbs (center) officially signs with D-I Towson April 12

Press Release:

NJCAA All-American Fobbs Signs with D-I Towson

Recently named First Team National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II All-American, Genesee Community College men’s basketball player Brian Fobbs will be taking up residence in Towson, Md. next season to continue his collegiate basketball career at the division-one level.

The Towson University men’s basketball team announced the signing of Fobbs to a National Letter of Intent today, April 12.

A 6-foot-5 guard, Fobbs recently completed an outstanding two-year career at GCC. He was named the NJCAA Region-III Player of the Year and led the region in points-per-game (26.4) and rebounds-per-game (12.7).

“He’s a big time shooter and scorer who is efficient and productive,” Towson head men’s basketball coach Pat Skerry said of Fobbs.

“He’s also versatile and physical. He is a guy (assistant coach Kevin) Clark identified and we quickly got him to campus. Brian is also an excellent rebounder with a great work ethic. His shooting percentages from the field from three-point land and the free-throw line were all outstanding this year. On top of that, he is great kid and excited to join our program.”

In helping Genesee Community College win 19 games and advance to the Region III semifinals, Fobbs shot 57.2 percent from the field and made 71 three-pointers. He scored 30 or more points nine times, including a single-game program record of 46 points. Fobbs also had 16 games of at least 20 or more points, and ended his two years with the Cougars with 1,306 points – which is fourth all-time in program history.

Cougars’ head men’s basketball coach Terry George had nothing but praise for his top player this season, “Brian had a tremendous season! From the first game of the season until the last possession of the year, ‘B.Fobbs’ dominated this level like only a handful of players to ever put on the Genesee uniform. He put in all the necessary work to accomplish most of his goals at GCC and deserves everything that comes his way!”

Fobbs joins a winning Tigers program that competes in the Colonial Athletic Association and plays out of SECU Arena.

Rachel Ladd (Mexico, NY) and Jason Chiodo (Hamburg, NY)
Cougar Athletes of the Week Announced

The Genesee Community College’s athletes of the week for the period ending April 8 are Rachel Ladd (Mexico, NY) from the women’s lacrosse team and Jason Chiodo (Hamburg, NY) from the men’s lacrosse team as both teams played national-ranked competition last week.

Ladd scored five points last week in a pair of games to lead the women’s lacrosse team. Her first goal of the week came against No. 3 Onondaga from free position and it was also the team’s first goal that helped build momentum as the team added more tallies after she broke the ice for her team. In her second outing of the week Ladd scored the hat trick and added an assist in bringing the team’s overall record back to .500. The freshman also recorded eight groundballs, eight draw controls and had 10 shots on net for the Cougars.

Chiodo scored a dozen points in a pair of men’s lacrosse wins for No. 3 Genesee last week. He single-handedly was responsible for moving the Cougars to No. 3 in the national polls after being- in on seven Cougar goals on then-No. 3 Howard, who only scored six in the loss to Genesee. The freshman attackman led his team in goals in each game last week with 10 total and five in each game, and also led his team in shots and shots on net with 21 and 16, respectively. He also scored both game-winning goals and recorded three groundballs.

No. 3 Men’s Lacrosse Team Sting Hornets 24-4

The Genesee Community College men’s lacrosse team continued its momentum and played its first game as the nation’s third-best team following the release of the National Junior College Athletic Association’s Men’s Lacrosse Poll earlier this week by traveling to Binghamton with a matchup against SUNY Broome.

More than a dozen players found the score sheet with nine players registering multi-goal performances in a 24-4 win over the Hornets April 11.

Jordan Brennan led all scorers with seven points and co-led the team in goals with four and assists with three.

Joshua Shields matched Brennan’s goal total with four of his own, while Kevin McParlene equaled Brennan’s assist total with three.

Both Andrew Forte and Brad Hejmanowski went 10-for-15 in faceoffs in leading the way with a team total of 21-of-32 on the day.

Genesee also collectively recorded 11 saves through four goalies, with each getting in an entire quarter of game time that included Garrett Lazore, Max Henchbarger, Lincoln Potter and Troi Benedict.

In addition to Brennan and Shields, the other multi-goal scorers included McParlene, Jason Chiodo, Samuel Koczwara, Alex Mack, Forte and Patrick Bilbrey, with each netting a pair and the latter recording the official game-winning goal. Joining that list with three goals was Evan Hollfelder, who was just one assist off the team-lead for the contest with a pair of helpers.

The Cougars also had 10 multi-point performances. After Brennan’s seven, Hollfelder and McParlene each had five with Shields adding four points – with all four coming from goals.

Chiodo notched three points; while Koczwara, Bilbrey and Michael Trimper each notched a pair of points in the win. Single-point games came from Josh Bernas, Henry Reber and Tyler Thompson, with the trio adding one helper apiece.

Softball Team faces Tough Division-II Opponent

The Genesee Community College softball team concluded weekday play for this week, but will return with action this weekend after hosting National Junior College Athletic Association Division-II Mercyhurst April 11.

Although the Cougars dropped both games there were some bright spots as the team finally played their first games of the season against Region-III opponents after nearly a month layoff after the team’s return from South Carolina.

The team needed a day to get back in the swing of things after a pair of road losses to Onondaga Community College the previous day.

The Cougars got off to a good start against D-II Mercyhurst by shutting them down in the first inning and then taking the lead in the bottom of the same inning. The Cougars ultimately bowed 15-4 in the first game of the home-opening doubleheader in some wintry conditions.

Shiori Ubukata led the Cougars by going 3-for-4 at the plate, with a solid performance also coming from Jackie Guzdek, who was 2-for-3.

In the second game, again it was Ubukata who energized the Cougars with a first-inning run and although the Cougars lost 14-2 the brightest spot may have come from the mound. Sam Tatarski was solid with most of Mercyhurt’s runs coming unearned.

Against Onondaga, the Cougars built some nice momentum in the second game of the doubleheader from the get-go after Tatarski homered. That was followed up by a Ubukata double with her also crossing the plate for a run after Guzdek successfully bunted-in a run and was also safe at first.

Defensively, the game was highlighted by a pair of double plays that came from Ubukata and Guzdek.

Genesee had some strong bats in the second Onondaga game with Ubukata again going 3-for-4 and a pair of hits each coming from Kennedy Lampert and Katie Haefele. Single hits came off the bats of Mikayla Bush, Maki Iwami and Britni Way.

Bri Heers had a pair of goals and three points for the Cougars against ECC April 11
Cougars Close to Unseating Kats in Women’s Lacrosse

The Genesee Community College women’s lacrosse team deserved better than an 8-6 loss to visiting Erie Community College April 12.

The Cougars took a late 4-2 lead in the first half and peppered the Erie goalie with almost twice as many shots as Erie could muster on Genesee. After dropping a pair of games to Erie last season by a dozen or more goals in each contest, the Cougars appear to be on the cusp of finally overtaking the Kats in the very near future via the play and result of Wednesday’s contest.

Bri Heers was in on half the Cougars’ offense with three points from a pair of goals and an assist. Current GCC Female Athlete of the Week Rachel Ladd also had a multi-point performance with a goal and assist, while Leah Herman, Kali Wright and Ashley Barclay all adding goals.

Jenna Lewis and Katline Cartwright also had helpers with the latter registering a team-high six shots for the contest.

Ladd recorded a team-high nine groundballs and four other Cougars registered three groundballs apiece that included Allison Duhow, Herman, Wright and current National Junior College Athletic Association Women’s Lacrosse Player of the Week Molly Barden.

Paige Biggins and Julie Kommer each added a pair of groundballs, while Sara Zakes recorded eight saves.

Barden Becomes First-Ever Cougar to Win NJCAA Women’s Lacrosse National Player of the Week

The National Junior College Athletic Association named Genesee Community College’s Molly Barden as its women’s national player of the week April 11.
Barden becomes the first Cougar ever to win the distinction as she scored 11 points in a pair of women’s lacrosse games last week while leading her team in goals, groundballs, shots and shots on net in each contest.
Of the two games, her most productive was a six-goal outing in a Region-III matchup against Mohawk Valley.
For the week she ended up with seven goals and four assists with 18 shots and 12 shots on net. In addition, she scooped up 14 groundballs with five coming against No. 3 Onondaga and nine against the Hawks.

Link to award: http://www.njcaa.org/sports/wlax/2017-18/releases/-4-11-18-_WLAX_POTW_-_Week_4

Mark Jagord
GCC Sports Information