Local News

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

Press Release:

The Batavia Police Department, along with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Genesee County Probation, LeRoy Police Department and the New York State Troopers – Troop A; would like to thank Dave Lumberg, Owner/Operator of Tim Horton’s (20 Main St.) for their daily donation of fresh, hot, coffee to our Officers and Instructors during the last two weeks of Active Threat Training, concluding today. The added level of convenience aided in the productivity of the training.

State Police clamp down on investigation into fatal shooting of an armed Albion man by an unnamed deputy in Pembroke.
State Police have identified 61 year old Keith Kent of Albion as the armed suspect who was shot and killed after allegedly drawing on a Genesee County Deputy in the parking lot of the Log Cabin Restaurant on Gilmore Road.
Due to the nature of the case, investigators from the State Police Troop A in Batavia are conducting an independent investigation and have yet to disclose the identity of the deputy who fired the fatal shot.
State Police Major Edward Kennedy wrapped up a press conference about the shooting yesterday morning with a disclaimer…

What has been revealed is that Kent who ran a logging business in Albion died immediately after being shot by the deputy late Wednesday night.
Kent was reported to have threatened customers, and provoked people to fight him at the Pembroke tavern, and at one point was apparently asking “Where are the Police?”
On the night of the incident, Genesee County Undersheriff Gregory Walker initially stated that the deputy took a single deadly shot killing the suspect after he had refused several commands to drop his gun and pointed his weapon at the officer.
Yesterday morning officials declined to say just how many shots were fired by Kent or the deputy.
Undersheriff Walker also said that police body cam footage of the shooting is under review.

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 the Third in Perry to keep sex abuse allegations quiet.
Investigators say Mlyniec may have led a bisexual double life and raped someone, and Irvine may have planned on acting as a witness.
Mlyniec is behind bars without bail.

State Police and local law enforcement will participate in a statewide crackdown on distracted driving as part of April’s National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
The enforcement effort, called Operation Hang Up, will include increased patrols and checkpoints targeting drivers using electronic devices while behind the wheel. This year’s enforcement detail will run through April 16.

A Winter Weather Advisory popping up well into the spring season.
The Advisory has been posted by the National Weather Service for the entire GLOW region and several surrounding counties to be in effect from 2 pm Saturday to 10 am Sunday.
Forecasters are calling for freezing rain with total ice accumulations of a quarter to half inch.
They say the heavy ice accumulation may lead to tree damage and power outages.
Winds are also expected to gust up to 40 mph, especially along the lakeshore.

Former Bills running back Fred Jackson wants to come back to retire a Bill.
Jackson was cut in 2015 after eight years with the Bills then picked up by Seattle.
He’s working on a one-day deal with Buffalo so he can retire as a Buffalo Bill.

An Albion logger shot and killed by a Genesee County sheriff’s deputy after threatening patrons of a Pembroke tavern.
61 year old Keith Kent died in the parking lot of the Log Cabin Restaurant on Gilmore Road late last night.
Authorities said Kent had created a disturbance and threatened customers of the tavern.
Genesee County Undersheriff Gregory Walker

Walker said there that the deputy fired only the one fatal shot.
Later officials declined to say just how many shots were fired by Kent or the deputy.
The case has been turned over to State Police to conduct an independent investigation. Troop A Commander Edward Kennedy is cautious about what information is being made public

It was also revealed that police body cam footage of the shooting is available to investigators who are still going over evidence and statements late today.

A Possible motive revealed in the case of a former Wyoming County deputy charged with murder.
60 year old Joseph Mlyniec (miln-ee-ak) is charged with gunning down Robert Irvine the Third in the driveway of Irvine’s home in Perry last month.
Police believe Mlyniec killed Irvine to keep sexual abuse allegations against the former deputy from being made public.
Mlyniec has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

State Police and local law enforcement will participate in a statewide crackdown on distracted driving as part of April’s National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
The enforcement effort, called Operation Hang Up, will include increased patrols and checkpoints targeting drivers using electronic devices while behind the wheel. This year’s enforcement detail will run through April 16.

Congressman Chris Collins had surprisingly nice things to say to Mark Zuckerberg.
The Facebook CEO apologized to members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee for the social network not doing more to protect user data.
Collins, who represents Genesee County in Congress, told Zuckerberg that after hearing him talk, he’s confident he’s doing good work that he believes in.

Former Bills running back Fred Jackson wants to come back to retire a Bill. Jackson was cut in 2015 after eight years with the Bills then picked up by Seattle.
He’s working on a one-day deal with Buffalo so he can retire as a Buffalo Bill.

Press Release:

What: College Entry Help Sessions at GCC in April, May and June!

When: Wednesday, April 25, 2018 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. ~ Wednesday, May 16, 2018 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. ~ Wednesday, June 27, 2018 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Where: Genesee Community College – Room T122 – Conable Technology Building ~ One College Road, Batavia NY

Who: Anyone looking for some help enrolling in college!

Background: Are you looking to go to college? Change careers? Lost a job? The Adult Educational Opportunity Center (AEOC) can help you figure out your next steps with its year-long schedule of open monthly sessions designed to get anyone started on their way to a college degree!

As with all AEOC services, these sessions are FREE and available both by appointment and walk-in! During these sessions, the AEOC’s outreach specialists will help potential college applicants with a variety of services, including:

• Financial Aid Counseling: help completing the FAFSA, understanding various financial aid options including student loans and Pell grants, scholarship applications, retrieving transcripts and assistance with special circumstance applications
• Enrollment Assistance: completing college applications or enrollment forms, ACT Test registration and completing Entrance Exam Prep through Accuplacer and transfer service
• Veterans Services: AEOC outreach specialists are trained to assist any veteran in navigating services available for higher education
• Career Services: the AEOC staff can assist with career exploration and navigation, financial literacy and more!

Both appointment and walk-in sessions will be available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 25, 2018, Wednesday, May 16, 2018 and Wednesday, June 27, 2018. Appointments are also available on additional dates by request. To schedule any appointment, please email AEOC@genesee.edu or contact Adult Education Director Kate Trombley, M.S. at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6285.

It is important to note that these College Entry Point Sessions are not limited to students attending or planning to attend GCC. Anyone interested in attending any college or in need of assistance in getting started can participate. Information regarding GCC and all other area colleges will be available at these sessions.

Additional details and a list of the session dates for all of 2018 is available at: http://news.genesee.edu/news/2018/01/05/ready-enroll-college-looking-some-help

Press Release:

New York State Police and local law enforcement will participate in a statewide crackdown on distracted driving as part of April’s National Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The enforcement effort, called Operation Hang Up, will include increased patrols and checkpoints targeting drivers using electronic devices while behind the wheel. This year’s enforcement detail will run from April 12 through April 16.

Preliminary data indicates a more than 1,100 percent increase in tickets for texting while driving in New York State from 2011 to 2017, including a 20 percent increase from 2016 to 2017. While hands-free technology in vehicles has resulted in a steady decline in the number of tickets issued for cell phone use, the increased use of smartphones has caused texting tickets to rise every year since 2011.

Troopers will be using both marked State Police vehicles and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) vehicles as part of the operation in order to more easily identify motorists who are using handheld devices while driving. CITE vehicles allow the Trooper to better observe distracted driving violations. These vehicles blend in with every day traffic but are unmistakable as emergency vehicles once the emergency lighting is activated.

State Police Superintendent George P. Beach II said, “Motorists who disregard the law and the dangers of using a smartphone while driving could face stiff penalties. Our Troopers will be highly visible and vigilant in our enforcement efforts, as we seek to eliminate the tragedies caused by distracted driving.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nationwide in 2016, 3,450 people were killed in crashes caused by distracted driving. In addition, according to a study conducted by the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research, in 2015, 160 persons were killed and more than 33,000 persons were injured in crashes in New York that had “driver inattention/distraction” reported as a contributing factor. The same report noted that 21 to 22 percent of police-reported fatal and personal injury crashes had “driver inattention/distraction” reported as a contributing factor each year.

Terri Egan, DMV Executive Deputy Commissioner and Acting Chair of the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee, said, “Glancing at your phone, even for a second, can lead to tragedy. If you need to look at your phone, find a safe place to pull off the road. No message is worth someone’s life.”

Thruway Authority Acting Executive Director Matthew J. Driscoll said, “Distracted driving puts your life and the lives of all motorists in danger as well as our emergency responders and roadside workers. The Thruway Authority is proud to partner with State Police and other state agencies to promote awareness about this entirely preventable issue. We encourage all motorists to drive safely and use Text Stops and Service Areas as safe locations for calling, texting or using hand-held devices.”

Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the creation of Text Stops in September 2013, expanding upon the state’s efforts to reduce distracted driving by highlighting places for motorists to pull off the highway, park and use their mobile devices. Park-and-ride facilities, rest stops, and parking areas along state highways and the New York State Thruway serve a dual function as Texting Zones.

The newest Text Stop, located on the northbound Adirondack Northway (Interstate 87) between Exits 27 and 28 in the town of Schroon, Essex County, opened in October 2017.

State Department of Transportation Acting Commissioner Paul A. Karas said, “Distracted driving is similar to impaired driving, a hazard on our roadways and a hindrance to public safety across New York. I urge motorists to keep their eyes on the road for their safety and the safety of others, and take advantage of the dozens of text stops lining our vast state highway system.”

The goal of the Operation Hang Up campaign is to enforce the law and raise awareness and deter distracted driving.

During the April 2017 Operation Hang Up campaign, State Police issued more than 16,000 tickets, including 2,116 tickets for distracted driving. The tickets written were a combination of talking on a cell phone without a hands free device, texting, or using an electronic device while driving.

NYS Distracted Driving Tickets Issued:

YEAR OF VIOLATION CELL PHONE TEXTING TOTAL TICKETS

2017* 104,445 110,591 215,036
2016 113,370 92,363 205,733
2015 132,245 84,794 217,039
2014 165,087 76,208 241,295
2013 208,508 55,718 264,226
2012 217,329 30,370 247,699
2011 248,801 9,043 257,844

Counts as of 3/27/2018
*PLEASE NOTE – Counts for 2017 may be incomplete due to lag time associated with processing tickets recorded and delivered to DMV on paper (as opposed to those recorded and transmitted electronically).

Final counts for 2017 will be available in May 2018.

Press Release:

On April 11, 2018 at approximately 10:58 P.M., Genesee County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) responded to a 911 call of a male subject armed with a handgun threatening patrons in the parking lot of Indian Falls Log Cabin Bar & Restaurant in Pembroke, NY. During the incident Deputy’s confronted Keith A. Kent, 61 of Albion, NY at which time Kent was fatally shot. The GCSO has requested the NYSP to handle the investigation. No other injuries resulted from this incident.

The Genesee County District Attorney Office, the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and the NYSP Forensic Investigation Unit responded to assist with the scene.
This is still an ongoing investigation. No further questions or statements will be made at this time.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office held a joint press conference with State Police regarding a fatal shooting involving a responding Genesee County Deputy at the Indian Falls Log Cabin in Pembroke.

State Police Major Edward Kennedy took a hard stance against prematurely releasing information…

It has been confirmed that the suspect was armed with a handgun and had discharged the weapon before officers arrived and at least once more after they made it on scene.

The initial report which came in before 11 p.m. last night described a male subject causing a disturbance at the Log Cabin restaurant and refusing to leave.

While deputies were in route another report came in that the subject had fired shots.

It was revealed that the man was yelling threats, provoking people to fight him outside in the parking lot of the restaurant and that he was asking “where are the police?”.

Undersheriff Gregory Walker did say that there were nine people at the restaurant that were still being interviewed and that no one inside was injured.

WBTA reported that the involved deputy fired a single shot ending the threat, however State Police would not confirm how many rounds were fired by either the suspect or law enforcement.

Undersheriff Walker said that body cam footage of the incident was being analyzed and that State Police are handling the criminal investigation while the Sheriff’s Office will be conducting an internal investigation.

Genesee County deputy ends threat of an armed suspect with a single shot.
A Genesee County Sheriff’s deputy responded with force after an armed suspect ignored commands to drop his weapon and pointed his gun at the officer.
The suspect was shot and killed late Last night in the parking lot of the Log Cabin Restaurant on Gilmore Road in Pembroke.
Law enforcement were called to a report of shots fired at the restaurant shortly before 11 last night according to Undersheriff Gregory Walker.
After arriving at the scene police immediately encountered the armed suspect in the parking lot who then failed to respond to commands, turned and pointed a gun at one of the responding deputies.
Walker said the suspect was killed with one shot.

The name of the suspect or the deputy who fired the fatal shot have yet to be released.
Undersheriff Walker said the case has been turned over to the State Police for an independent investigation.
More information is expected to be released later today.

A Possible motive revealed in the indictment of a former Wyoming County deputy charged with murder.
60 year old Joseph Mlyniec was arraigned yesterday for allegedly gunning down Robert Irvine the Third in the driveway of his home in Perry last month.
He has been accused of killing Irvine to keep sexual abuse allegations from being reported according to information in the indictment.
It isn’t clear who the alleged sex abuse victim was.
Mlyniec pleaded not guilty to murder and intimidating a witness, and was sent back to jail.

First-time candidate for New York Governor Cynthia Nixon is adding the legalization of marijuana to her campaign issues.
She released a video in which she claims while marijuana has been effectively legalized for white people, blacks and Latinos continue to face arrest.

Nixon also says legalizing weed will generate millions in tax dollars and create agricultural opportunities throughout the state.

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce is offering advice on how a small business can deal with an active shooter situation.
Two Genesee county Sheriff’s Deputies will host the workshop a week from today at the chamber office on Park Road.
Chamber President Tom Turnbull says the workshop will help businesses form a plan they hope never to use.

The state DOT has begun construction on the $1.4 million replacement of the bridge carrying Bethany Center Road over U.S. Route 20.
The project will replace the 86 year old bridge with upgraded guiderails, pavement markings, and signage.
An average 15-hundred vehicles use the bridge every day.
Bethany Center Road will close for approximately five months during the construction which is scheduled to be completed this fall.

An armed suspect was fatally shot by a Genesee County Sheriff’s deputy after the man ignored commands to drop his weapon and pointed his gun at the officer.

The shooting occurred late last night in the parking lot of the Log Cabin Restaurant on Gilmore Road in Pembroke.

Undersheriff Gregory H. Walker

Undersheriff Gregory Walker said law enforcement responded to a report of shots fired at the restaurant shortly before 11 last night.
When police arrived they encountered an armed suspect in the parking lot. The suspect, Walker said, failed to respond to commands, turned and pointed a handgun at one of the responding deputies.
Walker said the deputy fired one shot, killing the suspect.

Walker spoke with WBTA at the scene early this morning:

The name of the suspect has not yet been released. The name of the deputy who fired the fatal shot also has not yet been revealed.

Undersheriff Walker said the case has been turned over to the State Police for an independent investigation.
Walker said further information would be released later today.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon is adding the legalization of marijuana to her campaign issues as she runs for governor of New York.
She released a statement  in which she claims while marijuana has been effectively legalized for white people, blacks and Latinos continue to face arrest:

Nixon also says legalizing weed will generate millions in tax dollars and create agricultural opportunities throughout the state.

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce is offering advice on how a small business can deal with an active shooter situation.
Two Genesee county Sheriff’s Deputies will host the workshop a week from today at the chamber office on Park Road.
Chamber President Tom Turnbull says the workshop will help businesses form a plan they hope never to use.

The state DOT has begun construction on the $1.4 million replacement of the bridge carrying Bethany Center Road over U.S. Route 20.
The project will replace the 86 year old bridge with upgraded guiderails, pavement markings, and signage.
An average 15-hundred vehicles use the bridge every day.
Bethany Center Road will close for approximately five months during the construction which is scheduled to be completed this fall.

Mark Zuckerberg is coming face to face with Congressman Chris Collins.
Zuckerberg testified today before the House Energy and Commerce Committee.
Collins, who represents Genesee County and much of Western New York, serves on that committee.
The social media CEO again explained Facebook doesn’t sell user data.

Orleans Community Health is entering into an affiliation with Rochester Regional Health. Through the agreement, Orleans Community Health will contract select health care services from Rochester Regional Health and its hospital in Batavia, United Memorial Medical Center.

“We’re excited about this new affiliation,” remarked Dawn Meland, board chair of Orleans Community Health. “It gives us more attractive options when we decide how to bring new services to the area, which is a great thing for our patients. Additionally, as we identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve efficiency and make health care more sustainable in this part of the region; we now have a partner ready to help us better take advantage of those opportunities.”

Shortly after the start of the new year, Rochester Regional Health began to expand its primary care offerings through this agreement. Market research has identified a shortage of primary care providers in Medina and Orleans County. In January, a full-time primary care office began to operate at the United Memorial Medical Center Medina location. Orleans Community Health is also looking to expand this office space to support future growth.

Orleans Community Health will remain its own independent organization under the terms of this agreement.

“Orleans Community Health is a critical asset to our community and they share our commitment to delivering great care close to where people live and work. It’s a natural partnership,” remarked United Memorial Medical Center President Dan Ireland. “It’s also an important partnership for the future. Together, we’re making care more accessible in a model that can adapt as the needs of patients continue to evolve.”

Press Release:

Bridge Closing to Traffic April 8; Detours to be Posted

New York State Department of Transportation Acting Commissioner Paul A. Karas today announced that construction has begun on a $1.4 million project to replace the bridge carrying Bethany Center Road (County Road 15) over U.S. Route 20 in the Town of Bethany, Genesee County. The project will replace the 86-year-old bridge and improve safety for both motorists and pedestrians with upgraded guiderails, pavement markings, and signage. The bridge carries an average of more 1,500 vehicles each day.

“Governor Cuomo has made smart investments in transportation a priority across New York State, modernizing bridges and highways to support mobility and commerce, Acting Commissioner Karas said. “This bridge in Genesee County will provide safe, reliable passage for motorists and pedestrians for generations to come.”

The existing bridge will close on April 8th and traffic will be detoured. Construction is scheduled to be completed this fall.

The bridge, first constructed in 1932, will be replaced with a single-span steel structure. The two piers that support the bridge will be removed, eliminating the potential for falling concrete.

The new bridge will facilitate the movement of freight and support emergency service vehicles.

Senator Michael Ranzenhofer said, “The condition of the Bethany Center Road Bridge has been deteriorating for years, and I have been advocating for replacing the 86-year-old bridge. That is why I am pleased that this project is moving forward. This infrastructure improvement project will ensure the safety of the more than 1,500 vehicles driving over the bridge each and every day.”

Assemblyman Stephen Hawley said, “Residents shouldn’t have to worry about their safety when crossing one of our area’s local bridges, and the Bethany Center Road Bridge replacement gives piece of mind to our families and businesses that use this route each day. Bridges are not only a means of travel from one place to the next, but a means of security for our citizens making the morning commute, our children taking the bus to school, our emergency, fire and police vehicles responding to an accident and our business owners transporting goods to market. Projects like this are crucial to the vitality of our economy and community, and I am pleased to see it moving forward.”

Consistent with Governor Cuomo’s Drivers First initiative, this bridge project was designed to minimize impacts to the traveling public. The bridge is being closed to all traffic so that work can be completed most efficiently. Two types of detours will be put in place.

During the replacement of the bridge, Bethany Center Road will close for approximately five months. A southbound detour will be posted for motorists to use Old Telephone Road, Route 20, East Road, and Raymond Road. Local traffic will be maintained, but not over the bridge.

Additional temporary detours will be posted to reroute traffic from Route 20 onto Old Telephone Road, which runs parallel to it, for safety purposes during the demolition of the existing structure and placement of the new bridge. This detour will be in effect for the following dates:

• April 9 to April 22 from 7 a.m. to 7 a.m.
• June 5 to June 8 from 7 a.m. to 7 a.m.
• July 10 to July 12 from 5 a.m. to 5 a.m.

Motorists are reminded that fines are doubled for speeding in a work zone. In accordance with the Work Zone Safety Act of 2005, convictions of two or more speeding violations in a work zone could result in the suspension of an individual’s driver’s license.

For up-to-date travel information, call 511, visit www.511NY.org, or the mobile site at m.511ny.org.

News Release: Genesee County Chamber of Commerce

“Active Shooter in the Workplace – It Can Happen to You” will be the subject of a small business workshop to be hosted the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce on April 18.

This is the one of a series of business workshops held in conjunction with the United States Small Business Administration and the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce. The workshops are open to all Chamber and non-Chamber businesses and their employees and will offer expert advice from experienced professionals designed to help small businesses succeed and grow.

“Unfortunately in today’s world dealing with an active shooter in the workplace is a possibility that everyone faces,” said Tom Turnbull, Chamber President. “This workshop will offer tips on how to make a plan to deal with this horrific situation. It’s a plan we hope no one ever has to use.”

Deputies Rich Schildwaster and Joe Loftus of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department will conduct the workshop.

The workshop will be held at the Chamber of Commerce office, 8276 Park Rd., Batavia. The session will run from 7:45 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. and includes a question and answer period. Cost for non-Chamber members is $10 for each attendee. Chamber members and Batavia Business Improvement District members may attend all small business workshops free of charge but should make reservations to insure space.

To reserve a seat in any workshop or for more information, contact Kelly Bermingham at 585-343-7440 or by email at kbermingham@geneseeny.com.

News Release: GCSO

In 1991, a formal Congressional resolution acknowledged the vital role that telecommunicators play in emergency situations by proclaiming the second week in April as a week of annual recognition in their honor. National Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Week is a time to thank these men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving the public. The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office recognizes and commends the County’s 9-1-1 Dispatchers for their dedication, professionalism and commitment to public service.

9-1-1 Dispatchers are there 24/7, 365 days a year for first responders and the public in time of need. Many people do not think about these seemingly nameless, faceless individuals until they experience actual emergencies themselves. In many instances, 9-1-1 Dispatchers make the difference between life and death. Over 93,000 events were dispatched in 2017, a daily average of 255, and over 120,000 telephone calls were handled last year which is an average of 329 calls per day. The Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center (Public Safety Answering Point-PSAP) is comprised of 24 men and women who dispatch to 5 local police agencies/New York State Police; 19 fire departments/Emergency Management Service; 3 ambulance services; as well as 41 other local, county, regional, state, and federal agencies.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office recognizes these public safety professionals who have worked so hard during this past year. Everyday citizens depend on the skill, expertise and commitment of the 9-1-1 Dispatchers. They are the first to take that phone call; the first to provide basic life support in a medical emergency; and also the first to dispatch needed fire, police or EMS responders for the call. They are to be recognized and commended.

Press Release:

On Tuesday, May 1, 2018 along with thousands of programs across the United States, Genesee Community College will recognize National Law Day with a full day of mock trials, receptions and speakers, and an Honor Society Induction Ceremony into the Lambda Epsilon Chi (LEX) Chapter.

National Law Day, celebrated annually on May 1, is designed to shed light on how laws protect liberties and the process by which the legal system strives to achieve justice. Every year since 1958 the President of the United States has issued a Law Day Proclamation recognizing the importance of the rule of the law. This year, President Donald J. Trump’s proclamation will address The Separation of Powers: Framework for Freedom as a basic tenet of our U.S. Constitution and studied by all legal students.

GCC’s Paralegal Studies students and the Criminal Justice students along with the Accelerated College Enrollment (ACE) students from Justice Academy invite the general public to witness mock trials they developed as part of their studies. The students and faculty have spent over 20 hours developing statements, preparing witnesses and planning arguments to mimic actual legal proceedings that simulate courtroom experiences. The mock trials will last approximately 90 minutes each and will be held at the Old County Courthouse in downtown Batavia from 10 a.m. till 3 p.m. All are welcome to come observe.

This year’s mock trials will feature a murder case torn from the headlines – college hazing, drinking and death.

A photograph Benjamin J. Bonarigo Sr., courtesy of GCC

Following the courtroom mock trials, the Paralegal Studies students will attend an Alumni Reception at GCC and hear keynote speaker, Benjamin J. Bonarigo, Sr. Bonarigo is a member of GCC’s Board of Trustees and a practicing lawyer in the community for over 30 years. He began his education at GCC with a degree in Business Administration and later went on to the University of Buffalo where he earned a bachelor’s degree and a Juris Doctorate degree. He has been appointed a member of the NYS Bar Association House of Delegates, NYS Appellate Division Grievance Committee for the Fourth Department, is past president of the Genesee County Bar Association and a former Independent Judicial Qualification Commission member. He has served 25 years as a board member for the Batavia Youth Football League and was honored with the Notre Dame Service and Volunteer Award for having served in various positions on the Notre Dame High School Board of Trustees for ten years.

A photograph Karyn Bryson, courtesy of GCC

GCC’s Law Day recognition culminates in the William W. Stuart Forum with the Lambda Epsilon Chi (LEX) Honor Society Induction emceed by GCC’s Director of Paralegal Studies Karyn S. Bryson, who will induct 16 new Honor Society members. Bryson received her Juris Doctorate degree from Southwestern University School of Law in Los Angeles, California and has been part of the Paralegal Studies Program at GCC since 2007.

The complete list of inductees including their hometowns can be viewed at http://marketing.genesee.edu/images/LEX_HonorSocietyInductees2018.pdf.

Membership in the Honor Society requires a 3.25 overall GPA and a 3.5 GPA specifically for Legal Specialty Courses. The GCC Lambda Chi (LEX) Chapter is newly chartered in 2018.

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:

Guardians of the Globe – Earth Day Celebration!
At DeWitt Recreation Area

Batavia, NY – Earth Day is your chance to take care of your planet and your wild neighbors! Join us at DeWitt Recreation Area in Batavia for our “Earth Day Celebration” on Saturday, April 21st from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Help clean up the park to keep the habitat safe and healthy for wildlife! Learn to make cool stuff from recycled materials. Enjoy wild games and a naturalist-guided hike to see where animals live and discover what good things you can do for them! Scouts can earn badge requirements and service hours! Help keep the community ecologically healthy and undeniably beautiful! Meet at Pavilion 2 for all activities. Celebration is FREE and open to the public. Please pre-register for activities by calling 585-344-1122!

Earth Day Night Hike!
At the Genesee County Park & Forest

East Bethany, NY – Celebrate the magic of spring with our Earth Day Night Hike at the Genesee County Park & Forest from 7:00 to 8:30 pm on Saturday April 21st! Meet at the Interpretive Nature Center and explore the forest by moonlight as we search for animals, hear nature folklore and listen to the wild chorus of the night. Visit the headwaters of Black Creek and find out why April’s moon is called the Fish Moon. Create a memory this Earth Day! Cost is $5/person, $10/family. All ages welcome. Preregistration
is required, call 585-344-1122 to register!

Call (585) 344-1122 to register. For more information visit our website at http://www.co.genesee.ny.us/departments/parks/, or contact Shannon Morley at Shannon.Morley@co.genesee.ny.us or (585) 344-1122.

https://www.facebook.com/Genesee-County-Parks-Recreation-Forestry-465144840306572/?ref=hl

Children at the Child Care Center playing in the quad

Press Release:

Did you know Genesee Community College offers a complete child care center for students, staff, faculty AND THE COMMUNITY? You don’t have to be a student at GCC for your child to attend the College’s state-of-the-art Child Care Center! Operated by the Genesee Community College Association, the Child Care Center features extensive developmental resources for children ages six weeks to five years old.

The Child Care Center is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday – including over the summer according to GCC’s academic calendar. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are included in the tuition rates. All of the food provided to the children is regulated through CACFP (Child Adult Care Food Program), which is a food program that adheres to all nutritional standards and values recommended for young, developing children. The Center also has safe sleeping equipment and spaces for a comforting naptime for the little ones!

The trained and dedicated staff at the Child Care Center provides age appropriate activities such as kindergarten readiness lessons, fine and gross motor activities, and socialization. In addition to the center’s outdoor playground which provides great exercise and fresh air all summer long, the facilities available at the College’s Batavia Campus provide creative and active programming, such as visiting the library, going to the theater to see a show, running in the gym, playing in the clock tower quad and enjoying the physical therapy obstacle course. For convenience, the College provides designated drop-off and pick-up parking spots right up front by the Stuart Steiner Theatre entrance.

In addition, all teachers are CPR, First Aid and AED trained. All of the lead teachers hold degrees in education and all staff complete at least 30 hours of training every two years to guarantee that they stay up to date on early childhood best practices.

“We take great pride in offering our children the best care and developmentally appropriate education,” Staci Williams, director of the Child Care Center said. “We strive to immerse the children into the College environment and allow them to enjoy and appreciate these beautiful facilities that surround us as much as possible. From letting the children ride tricycles in the gym on a snowy day, to getting them outside to the playground in the summer-our children really benefit from GCC, like so many other students and staff.”

Registration for the GCCA Child Care Center is simple, the application is available online at https://www.genesee.edu/home/campus-life/child-care/register/ and can be mailed or dropped off to the Child Care Center at GCC’s Batavia Campus located at One College Road in Batavia.

Child Care Center rates are based on the number of days the child attends and the age of the child. The U.S. Department of Education and SUNY awards grant funds for child care tuition subsidies for income eligible GCC students. Please contact the Child Care Office if you would like specific pricing. GCC makes it easy to make child care tuition payments with an online payment center – no more having to remember your checkbook!

For more information, contact Child Care Center Director Staci Williams at (585) 345-6833 or via email: slwilliams@genesee.edu.

Press Release:

Medina, NY ~ The Orleans County Heritage Heroes Awards recognize the work and dedication of those who give their time and resources to preserve and protect the history of Orleans County for future generations.

The Heritage Heroes Awards will be bestowed upon the 2018 winners at a special ceremony on Friday, April 27, 2018 at 7 p.m. at Genesee Community College’s Albion Campus Center in Albion, NY. The awards are co-sponsored by SUNY GCC and the Orleans Hub. The entire community is invited to come and help honor these important individuals.

“The Heritage Heroes Awards serve not only to honor deserving community members and thank them for their invaluable efforts, but to remind us all that the responsibility of preserving our heritage is incumbent upon the living generations,” says Derek Maxfield, associate professor of history at GCC and member of the Heritage Heroes executive committee. “It is an important undertaking that we all should share in.”

The 2018 Orleans County Heritage Heroes are:

Aaron Grabowski

Organist and director of Music at St. Mary’s Church in Medina, Aaron Grabowski has always had a passion for making music. However, Grabowski is more than a musician, he also builds organs. Prior to moving to Medina, he acquired a circa 1890s Barkhoff pipe organ, which was originally installed in Annunciation RC Church in Buffalo, built just a few years before St. Mary’s. When he joined St. Mary’s Church, it was evident to him that the church’s ailing electronic organ needed to be replaced. Although the original pipe organ was removed from the balcony many years ago, the organ facade (consisting of exposed pipes and oak millwork) remained intact. Upon inspection of the organ loft, Grabowski knew a proper pipe organ, befitting of the church’s history and space could be installed. Grabowski and several other interested parishioners worked together and decided he would install his Barkhoff organ in at St. Mary’s, and do the work himself! The Barkhoff was a perfect fit, given its age (built within a decade of St. Mary’s), classical voicing and having been designed by the same architect, Albert A Post. Grabowski’s dedication and hard work will fill the nave of St. Mary’s for generations to come.

Diane Palmer

Diane Palmer has always been a historian at heart and has long lent her talents and dedicated her time serving the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the Cobblestone Society & Museum. Currently a member of the Board of Trustees at the Cobblestone Society & Museum, Palmer recently coordinated two very successful historic tours – one of Cobblestone homes and the other a holiday tour of prominent local homes and churches. The December 2017 Holiday Tour included eight historical sites in Orleans County: the Pullman Memorial Universalist Church, the Orleans Chapter DAR House and six residences entailing architecture ranging from Greek and Gothic Revival to Cobblestone.

Arthur Barnes

Noted local artist for over 30 years and constant advocate for the community, Arthur Barnes uses his artwork to celebrate Orleans County and its rich history. Barnes created a series of four large-scale murals depicting the Erie Canal which can be enjoyed in Medina, Knowlesville, Albion and Holley. Both a photographer and artist, Barnes highlights local tourism landmarks, such as the County Courthouse, the Culvert in Ridgeway and Mount Albion Tower. However, most of his work pays homage to the houses, barns and beautiful rural landscape of the area. These pieces serve to document Orleans County history as several of the houses and barns in his paintings are no longer standing. In 2000, Barnes bought a cobblestone building in Millville originally built as a Quaker meeting house in 1841. Barnes has repaired the roof and spent countless hours on additional improvements to spare what would have been an inevitable collapse of the building.

Roy Bubb

Teacher and historian, Roy Bubb added author to his resume when he penned Memories of Manning Corners: History of the Bubb Family and its Neighborhood 1931-1942, which is a retrospective on growing up in Orleans County. In 1986, Bubb retired from The SUNY College of Brockport after 25 years of service providing the best possible learning environment to future educators. In the late ’60s, Bubb co-created a simulation program that received recognition from the National College Association. Since then, Bubb has published nearly a half dozen books including his 2017 work, The Family Scrapbook, An Era in Clarendon and Holley-Murray’s History. Proceeds from Bubb’s many works benefit both the Madison Historical Society in Madison, NH, and the Clarendon Historical Society in Clarendon, NY.

Receiving the Bill Latin Municipal Historian Award – Lysbeth “Betsy” Hoffman

Since 1980, Lysbeth “Betsy” Hoffman has served her community researching information, collecting names and dates, archiving and cataloging, and writing as the Town of Carlton Historian. Former Orleans County Historian Bill Lattin knew Hoffman as an invaluable resource, one who would always have the answer. For many years Hoffman was a regular columnist for the Medina Journal-Register reporting the “goings on” in Lakeside. She developed special displays in the Carlton Town Hall and was an avid collector of archival material that continues to aid and educate future generations.

Receiving the Bob Waters Lifetime Achievement Award – Marsha DeFillips

One of the longest servicing municipal historians in Orleans County, Marsha DeFillips has been the Holley-Murray Town historian for over 40 years. Very active in the Holley-Murray Historical Society, DeFillips was influential in establishing the Murray-Holley Historical Society Museum in the old train depot and has led multiple talks and workshops and helped many residents trace their own familial roots. Recently DeFillips teamed with Melissa Ierlan to present “Digging up your ancestors online” which is a public workshop designed to encourage and guide individuals down their own genealogy path. One of the signature accomplishments during her term as town historian has been her creation of an Index of personal names in Landmarks of Orleans County. To do this, DeFillips spent many months combing through and extracting every name mentioned in Isaac Signor’s 1894 publication, developing a permanent record of history.

The award ceremony on Friday, April 27, 2018 at 7 p.m. will be held in GCC’s Albion Campus Center located at 456 West Avenue, Albion, NY 14411. The event is free to attend and open to the public, but seating is limited. A reception will follow the ceremony featuring light refreshments.

For more information on the awards or the ceremony, contact Jim Simon at jsimon@genesee.edu or Prof. Derek Maxfield at ddmaxfield@genesee.edu or by calling the Albion Campus Center at 585-589-4936.

View Online: http://genesee.meritpages.com/news/2018-orleans-county-heritage-heroes-announced/3216

News Release

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

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

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

Assemblyman Steve Hawley
April Office Hours:

Monroe County:
Ellwanger Room
Seymour Library
161 East Avenue, Brockport
Wednesday, April 11, 2018
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Ellwanger Room
Seymour Library
161 East Avenue, Brockport
Friday, April 27, 2018
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Genesee County:
Genesee Community College
Conable Technology Building, Room T124
Assemblyman R. Stephen Hawley Drive (1 College Road), Batavia
Friday, April 13, 2018
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Genesee Community College
Conable Technology Building, Room T124
Assemblyman R. Stephen Hawley Drive (1 College Road), Batavia
Friday, April 27, 2018
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Health Department handles Hypothetical Hepatitis Outbreak.
Members of the Genesee County Health Department dealt with an outbreak of Hepatitis A at the Genesee Community College, or at least that was the drill.
The exercise which is required by New York State of all Health Departments statewide was performed yesterday to practice administering a vaccine as a result of a Hepatitis A exposure.
The Health Department’s Mari Hamilton runs down the procedure…

The state sent out a fictitious scenario notifying the Health Department of a grocery store employee who had handled produce after contracting the contagious virus.
The Health Department Hepatitis A exercise played out yesterday at Genesee Community College and again, it was only a drill.

Alleged impersonator arrested by Sheriff’s Deputies in Batavia.
Following investigation into a traffic stop on Veterans Memorial Drive in Batavia in February, deputies arrested 36 year old Amber Klimczak of Main Street in York.
Klimczak charged with Criminal Impersonation and Aggravated Unauthorized Operation after she allegedly provided another person’s identity to law enforcement after being stopped for a headlight violation.
She is expected to appear in Batavia Town Court on May 17th.

Mark Zuckerberg is coming face to face with Congressman Chris Collins today.
The Facebook CEO appeared in front of members of the U.S. Senate yesterday, apologizing for the social network not doing more to protect users’ data.
Zuckerberg is set to testify today before the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which Collins is on.
Collins said this is an apology tour and expects Zuckerberg to say he’s sorry, again, admit mistakes were made, again; and promise to do better, again.

Governor Cuomo is proposing legislation that would ban employers from asking prospective employees about their salary history.
The move is in response to a state report on the gender wage gap.
Cuomo has already prohibited New York State from asking job seekers about their wage history.

Buffalo Bills guard Ritchie Incognito says he’s done.
Yesterday he told the “Buffalo News” that he would be retiring for medical reasons.
The 34 year old lineman said his doctor told him the stress is killing him.
Incognito says there’s absolutely no chance of him coming back next season.

The State Comptroller’s Office wants the Batavia City Council to take greater financial control over the downtown Business Improvement District, known as BID.
The city had been critical of BID’s budgeting procedures for the past few years.
Interim City Manager Matt Worth said a formal contract will be drawn up between the city and BID to address the issues raised in the audit.

Governor Cuomo is proposing legislation that would ban employers from asking prospective employees about their salary history.
The move is in response to a state report on the gender wage gap.
Cuomo has already prohibited New York State from asking job seekers about their wage history.

The Genesee County Health Department put in some important practice today.
It was all just an exercise, a drill, to administer vaccine as a result of a Hepatitis A exposure.
The Health Department’s Mari Hamilton laid out the scenario:

Today’s Health Department Hepatitis A exercise played out at Genesee Community College and again, it was only a drill.

The Rochester woman who started a fire that killed four of her children is out of prison.
Bobbie Kugler pleaded guilty in 2012 to arson and four counts of manslaughter.
She was sentenced to seven to 15-years in prison but has been released from Albion Correctional.
Officials said Kugler’s release was based on her remorse and good disciplinary record.
She’s going to be living in Dutchess County.

Press Release:

Sleep Insights, an established, local sleep medicine practice, recently expanded and moved to 47A Batavia City Centre in downtown Batavia. For people who struggle to regularly get a good night’s sleep, Sleep Insights provides a welcoming approach to help people sleep better: as an integrated practice, they diagnose and treat over 80 types of sleep disorders, provide physician appointments (ages 5+), offer home sleep apnea testing, overnight sleep testing and CPAP services—all at one site.

“This is the same clinical model we use at our Rochester site,” noted Dr. Jacob Dominik, Sleep Insights’ Medical Director, who sees patients at the Batavia site. “It’s really a game changer when it comes to providing continuity of care, since we manage patients from start to finish. I personally meet with patients to determine the cause of their sleep problems as well as the appropriate next steps, which we can also provide.”

“If people have problems sleeping or staying awake, testing isn’t always needed,” explained Dr. Dominik, “so that definitely shouldn’t deter people from seeking help.” Patients are seen at Sleep Insights for a variety of sleep disorders affecting their sleep quality and ability to function. Some of the most common conditions impacting sleep include snoring, sleep apnea, insomnia, daytime sleepiness and fatigue, restless legs syndrome, shift work disorder, narcolepsy and parasomnias (abnormal behavior during sleep).
“Sleep is critical to emotional and physical health,” Dr. Dominik added. “We’re here to help anyone who isn’t regularly waking up and feeling refreshed. Our focus is on helping each patient as soon as we can, the best we can.”

Sleep Insights moved from 653 E. Main Street, Batavia, to 47A Batavia City Centre, earlier this year. Their new location provides a soothing, upscale environment with expanded room for CPAP supplies and support from a Registered Respiratory Therapist. In addition, three bedrooms for overnight testing are slated to be added in mid-2018. Their phone number remains the same: 585.219.4330. New patient appointments are available and no healthcare provider referral is needed.

Press Release:

If you’re looking for great food and warm hospitality close to home, then Wyoming County Restaurant week is for you. The Wyoming County Chamber and Tourism has again partnered with the Warsaw Country Courier; Arcade Herald, and WCJW Radio to host the third annual restaurant week in Wyoming County. The event runs from April 29 thru May 5 at restaurants from every corner of Wyoming County.

Participating restaurants will offer a unique dish throughout “restaurant week” at the special price of $20.18. Each restaurant will create its own unique menu, which could include anything from a single entrée to a multi-course meal.

“We’re very excited to be partnering again on this fun event and thank the restaurants for being involved. What better way for our restaurants to showcase all of the great menu items that they have available,” said Scott Gardner, Chamber President. “We have some of the best restaurants in Western New York right here in our backyard, and this is a great way to celebrate all that they have to offer and encourage diners to try something new. Thanks to all the event partners and everyone who works to makes this event a success.”

More information, weekly specials, and the full list of participating restaurants can be found by visiting the website www.wyomingcountyrestaurantweek.com or www.gowyomingcountyny.com or by calling the Wyoming County Chamber at (585) 786-0307. Restaurant specials can also be found on facebook by searching Wyoming County Restaurant Week.

The 2018 GCC Fashion Show graphic, designed by GCC’s Graphic Arts student, Yuki Lai

Press Release:

What: 37th Annual Fashion Show at Genesee Community College

When: Saturday, April 28, 2018 beginning at 7 p.m.

Where: Genesee Community College, One College Road, Batavia ~ In the brand new Richard C. Call Arena!

Who: All are welcome!

Background: The Fashion Program students at Genesee Community College are almost ready for the 37th Annual Fashion Show taking place on Saturday, April 28, 2018 at 7 p.m. in the new Richard C. Call Arena. Get your tickets now!

Each scene in the show, themed “Ascendant” is designed and coordinated by a student in the Fashion program. “Ascendant” highlights the rising power GCC has in communicating fashion and simultaneously represents the astrological sign under which a person is born. The students are using “Ascendant” to move beyond recognizing astrologically assigned character trait differences and are using fashion to make statements about appreciating those differences as potential contributions to creative teamwork.

“Ascendant” will completely transform the field house in the new Richard C. Call Arena into a dreamlike space with a powerful runway! Tickets to attend the show are available in advance for $5 per person until 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 25, 2018. Tickets will also be available at the door for $8 per person. To purchase tickets in advance, email fashionshow@genesee.edu today.

The Fashion Show will include a vendor fair giving local businesses a chance to showcase their products and services. There are still a few tables available for additional vendors. Interested businesses should email fashionshow@genesee.edu. Tables are only $25 and are an excellent marketing opportunity, given the fashion show attendance of nearly 2,000 local consumers.

Be sure to follow @trendygcc_ on Instagram and @trendygcc on Twitter for more about the 37th Annual Fashion Show.

For more information, 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/2018/03/27/zodiac-signs-dictate-fashion-gcc-s-ascendant

The City has been directed to increase their oversight of BID.
City Council has been mandated to assume a greater control of the Batavia Improvement District’s finances following an audit by a New York State Comptroller into the relationship between the BID and the City.
Interim Manager Matt Worth said the audit addresses several procedural issues, particularly in the areas of budget oversight and retention of the BID’s funds.
Council President Eugene Jankowski said the state is now supporting what Council members have previously pushed for which is more City oversight of the BID.
Contentions arose towards the end of 2016 between the City and the BID over the size of the agencies budget and how it was being disclosed publically.
Worth said that more specific ground rules such as how the funds should be monitored more carefully and who will take possession of the funds will be established in a formal contract between the city and the BID.

Possible Life in Prison for a Greece couple accused of producing child porn.
Following a complaint earlier this year, Bonnie Hughes and John Kohlmeier, Jr. both of Greece, were arrested for allegedly engaging in sexual conduct with the a 10 year old female victim.
It was alleged that Kohlmeier was having sexually explicit cellphone conversations with the 10 year old and that at his request, Hughes had allegedly taken two sexually explicit photographs of the minor victim.
The couple was arrested and charged with production, receipt, and possession of child pornography, along with coercing and enticing a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity.
Both Hughes and Kohlmeier are currently being held in state custody and are facing a possible 15 years to life in prison if found guilty on the charges.

An Altercation in Aldi’s parking lot in Clarence leads to charges for an Amherst man.
Troopers responded to a report of a fight in the Aldi’s parking lot in Clarence on Saturday.
A verbal altercation arose between defendant Raed Saleh and a couple who were walking in front of the store when Saleh allegedly approached in a vehicle and drove to close to the pedestrian.
Saleh then allegedly bumped the pedestrian with his vehicle and as the altercation came to a head he was accused of exiting his vehicle and striking the pedestrian with a baseball bat.
Saleh was arrested and charged with a felony count of Assault, Criminal Mischief, Endangering the Welfare of a Child and Criminal Possession of a Weapon.
He was released with a return court date to Clarence Town Court.

Governor Cuomo is warning medical centers throughout the state about a serious concern with synthetic marijuana going around.
Some states are reporting synthetic marijuana users having severe and life-threatening bleeding.
The drug is usually sold in colorful packets with names like K2, Spice and AK-47.
They think it could be cut with rat poison.
Health care professionals are urged to watch for unexplained bleeding, especially if they suspect the use of synthetic marijuana.

Press release:

On Monday, businessman Nick Stankevich suspended his grassroots Congressional campaign against Chris Collins.

“Eight months ago, I announced my candidacy to represent our community in Congress,” Stankevich said, “standing for issues that put people first has always been the heart and soul of my campaign: healthcare for a healthier society, good education for our children’s future, job creation by investing in rural infrastructure and a renewable economy.

“Growing up in Western New York, learning from this great country, and seeing our communities for what they could be, there is a need to push for a new direction with fresh ideas. I ran for Congress out of an obligation to give back to a community that gave me so much. I have been the beneficiary of some of the hardest working people in Western New York and thank them for the time and effort they put into this campaign.

“My family, friends and everyone who supported me have shown me, once again, that we live in a unique place. Having traveled throughout our rural towns to meet with farmers, veterans and small business owners, I am reminded that we live in a place where it does not matter where you have been, what you look like, or how much money you make. It only matters that the contents of your character are pure and that you long for a future where our children are better off than we are.

“After careful consideration and with a heavy heart, I am suspending my campaign for Congress. I’m proud of the campaign I ran and proud of my team. I will take the lessons learned and the warmth from our neighbors who yearn for a better tomorrow, to continue fighting to make our community better. As always, I encourage every decision you make to have people at the heart of it, along with humility, compassion and kindness. The people of Western New York deserve that in their representative.

“I want to remind everyone, Republican or Democrat, of the strength that you hold in your hands. Your vote won’t just affect change for two years, but it will be a symbol of hope for generations to come. The promise of America is not only that your vote will count, but also that it will mean something. It assures you that we are a part of something bigger than right now.

“Our decision at the ballot box will be judged in the history books, and our children and grandchildren count on us to give them a better future than we could ever imagine. May God bless the United States of America.”

Jason Chiodo netted seven points and five goals against No. 3 Howard in a 16-6 win photo credit GCC Athletics Curtis Kreutter

Press Release:

No. 4 Cougars Record Double-Digit Men’s Lacrosse Win Over No. 3 Howard

The No. 4 Genesee Community College men’s lacrosse team turned their game up a notch in the second half to beat No. 3 Howard Community College with a double-digit 16-6 victory April 8. The win almost assures that the Cougars will move up in the national rankings after several weeks at No. 4.

Genesee got off to a quick start and never looked back. Jason Chiodo, Alex Mack and Evan Hollfelder put Genesee ahead 3-0 in the first quarter, respectively, and the Dragons were never able to catch up. Howard got its first in the final three minutes of the opening quarter to make it a 3-1 game after the initial 15 minutes.

The Dragons played their best quarter in the second and although they matched Genesee with three second-quarter goals, the closest they would come then was at 4-3 after nearly four minutes into the second, but Chiodo and Mack responded with a pair of goals in a minute span late in the second quarter to restore Genesee’s three-goal lead.

Howard closed the gap to single goal to start the second half at 6-5, but that was as close as they would come as Genesee scored 10 of the game’s remaining 11 goals for the win.

In the faceoff battle, Andrew Forte out-battled Howard’s top faceoff man – T.J. Atrill – and came away with 17 wins on 24 attempts that ultimately led to a 35-23 shooting advantage for Genesee. The Cougars also won the groundball game 32-8.

Chiodo led the team in goals with five that included the game winner while also leading the team in points with seven. His nine shots were also tops for the team and co-led with shots on net with Mack with six apiece.

Evan Hollfelder (left) had as many points as the opposition had goals in a 16-6 win over No. 3 Howard CC photo credit GCC Athletics Curtis Kreutter

Hollfelder once again led the team in assists with five and also added a goal. Mack finished the game with four goals, while Jordan Brennan and Kevin McParlene added a pair of goals each. Patrick Bilbrey and Forte had single tallies.

After Hollfelder’s five helpers, Brennan and Chiodo each had a pair with a single assist from McParlene. In all, five Cougars registered multi-point performances. After Chiodo’s seven points, Hollfelder finished with six, Brennan and Mack each had four while McParlene finished with three.

Garrett Lazore recorded six saves in the win and the Cougars also went 3-for-8 in man-up opportunities.

Although Howard entered the game ranked at No. 3 that ranking could have been higher had they held on to a fourth-quarter lead over current No. 2 Nassau in their season-opening 9-8 loss. It took No. 2 Nassau the entire game to net nine goals on the Dragons, while the Cougars needed just a half to rack up 10 goals against the current No. 3 team.

The Cougars’ next three games are on the road starting with a regional matchup against Broome Community College April 11 at 4 p.m.

Mark Jagord

GCC Sports Information

Bogus Benjamin leads to lock up for a Pair of Perry residents.
Perry Police arrested two residents following investigation into a complaint of a phony 100 dollar bill being passed at a local restaurant.
31 year old Amber Ellis and John Mann both of South Main Street in Perry were taken into custody.
After the duo reportedly ordered food from a local restaurant last Monday evening then are accused of paying with a phony 100 dollar bill and leaving with change.
Police traced the call back to Mann who claimed to have no knowledge of the fake currency.
Officers still arrested him for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Pot Possession and Parole Violation.
Ellis was later taken into custody and charged with first degree Forgery, Possession of a Forged Instrument, Criminal Simulation of a Government Instrument and two counts of Petit Larceny.
Both Mann and Ellis were remanded to the Wyoming County Jail.

Rochester resident arrested under Leandra’s Law after crashing in Pavilion.
23 year old Rachael Lochner of Rochester was arrested and charged with two Aggravated counts of DWI, for recording a Blood Alcohol Content over twice the legal limit and for allegedly driving drunk with a child.
Deputies responded to a motor vehicle accident on South Street Road in Pavilion on Wednesday afternoon where they found Lochner who had apparently crashed her vehicle while intoxicated.
She reportedly failed to keep right and moved from a lane unsafely then struck two fences and a building.
Lochner was given an appearance ticket for Pavilion Town Court on May 15th.

Another false fire alarm pulled by a repeat offender in Batavia.
41 year old Jonathan Balaz a resident of the DePaul Properties on East Main Street in Batavia was arrested and charged with Falsely Reporting an Incident on Friday.
Balaz was accused of pulling the fire alarm at the housing complex, knowing that there was no actual fire or other emergency.
Balaz was jailed just last month for falsely pulling the fire alarm twice in one week.
He was given an appearance ticket for tomorrow in Batavia City Court.

Investigators still searching for answers after a Monroe County mother is accused of murdering her son.
The horrifying incident allegedly occurred Thursday night at a South Lake Road residence in Sweden where several Monroe County Deputies were called to the scene for a report of a suicidal woman with a knife.
They found 36 year old Hanane Mouhib who had to be pepper sprayed and tased by officers in order to be subdued.
Deputies then made the gruesome discovery of her decapitated 7 year old son Abraham Cardenas.
There was no evidence of a struggle between the boy and his mother and investigators are finding it difficult to pin down a motive.
Mouhib has brief a recorded history of mental health issues and has been jailed without bail.
her next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday April 11th.

Rochester resident jailed without bail for trying to swipe with someone else’s credit card.
33 year old Rueben Walker of Ellicott Street in Rochester was accused of attempting to make a purchase using someone’s credit card he was not permitted too.
Walker was remanded to the Genesee County Jail without bail.

Democratic Candidate in Batavia drops out of race.
Businessman Nick Stankevich who began and ran his grassroots campaign against incumbent Republican Congressman Chris Collins right here in Batavia has come to an end.
In a press release, Stankevich said “After careful consideration and with a heavy heart I am suspending my campaign for congress”.
Stankevich wants to remind people of all parties they hold the strength for change in their hands.

Katline Cartwright scoops up a groundball for Genesee

Press Release:

Lady Cougars Match Season-High Goal Performance in Lacrosse Win

The Genesee Community College women’s lacrosse team matched a season-high goal total in a 19-2 win over visiting Mohawk Valley Community College April 7. The Cougars improved to 2-2 on the season and rebounded nicely after a loss earlier in the week to No. 3 Onondaga – that was the team’s first game action in almost a month.

Between groundballs and shots, Genesee accounted for over one hundred in total, with 52 shots and 51 groundballs. The Cougars also held the edge in draw controls by a 14-9 advantage with five players registering four points or better on the afternoon.

Molly Barden led the way across the board with six goals and four assists for a 10-point performance. Her 17 shots were tops on the team with 11 finding the target and she also led the team in groundballs with nine. In addition, she picked up three of her four assists in the first half in less than a three-minute span on goals 5-7.

Kali Wright, Rachel Ladd, Ashley Barclay and Olivia Steedman all recorded four-point efforts, with the latter trio compiling three goals each. Rounding out the scorers was Bri Heers and Miko Yamashita, while Sara Zakes had a pair of saves at the opposite end.

Genesee got four goals via free position that came from Yamashita, Steedman, Barclay and Wright, with the latter earning the game-winning goal less than four minutes into the contest.

In addition to Barden’s nine groundballs, Leah Herman and Allison Duhow each snagged a half-dozen apiece. Four groundballs came from Julie Kommer, Barclay and Heers; while Paige Biggins, Ladd and Wright all added three each.

The Cougars will next host Erie Community College April 11 at 4 p.m. The game was originally scheduled at Erie, but had to be changed to the Cougars’ turf field after the Kats’ grass field was deemed in too poor of a condition for competition.

Mark Jagord
GCC Sports Information

Phony C note lands two Perry residents in lock up.
Following investigation by the Perry Police Department into a complaint of a faked 100 dollar bill being circulated at a local restaurant, police arrested 31 year old Amber Ellis and John Mann both of South Main Street in Perry.
The pair had apparently called and ordered food from a local restaurant Monday evening then allegedly payed with a phony 100 dollar bill and left with change.
The phone call was traced back to Mann who claimed to have no knowledge of the fake currency, however he was arrested for Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, Pot Possession and Parole Violation.
Ellis was later taken into custody and charged with first degree Forgery, Possession of a Forged Instrument, Criminal Simulation of a Government Instrument and two counts of Petit Larceny.
Both Mann and Ellis were remanded to the Wyoming County Jail.

Gruesome murder in Monroe County stuns investigators.
36 year old Hanane Mouhib of South Lake Road in Sweden has been arrested and charged with the murder and decapitation of her 7 year old son Abraham Cardenas.
The horrifying incident allegedly occurred Thursday night at the South Lake Road residence and investigators are still searching for a possible motive.
Monroe County Deputies were called to the scene for a report of a suicidal woman with a knife and after arriving Mouhib was reportedly pepper sprayed and tased by officers in order to subdue her.
Mouhib has brief a recorded history of mental health issues however investigators are still trying to make sense of the unexplained murder.
Mouhib is jailed without bail and her next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday April 11th.

Crash in Pavilion leads to arrest under Leandra’s Law.
Genesee County Deputies were called to respond to a motor vehicle accident on South Street Road in Pavilion on Wednesday afternoon.
They discovered that the driver 23 year old Rachael Lochner of Rochester had allegedly crashed her vehicle while intoxicated and was accompanied by a child less than 16 years old.
Apparently Lochner had failed to keep right and moved from a lane unsafely then struck two fences and a building.
She was charged with two Aggravated counts of DWI, one for recording a Blood Alcohol Content over twice the legal limit and another under Leandra’a Law for driving drunk with a child.
Lochner was given an appearance ticket for May 15th in Pavilion Town Court.

The 5th Annual Genesee county Chamber of Commerce Home Show continues today at the Falleti Ice Arena.
Today is the final day of the Home Show and your last chance to check out the impressive displays and prizes being offered by local vendors.
The show will be open today from 10a.m. to 3p.m.

Press Release:

Clarence, N.Y. – Bryan Piligra, campaign spokesman for Congressman Chris Collins, released the following statement on tomorrow’s Democrat-organized “gun forum” being held and coordinated by known progressive groups.

“If ever NY-27 residents needed proof of just how political and manipulated this event has become, they should look no further than the guest list handpicked by Brian Higgins, Jeremy Zellner, the Erie County Democratic Committee and their partisan allies like Indivisible.Org and MoveOn.org,” said Bryan Piligra, campaign spokesman. “For such proud Democrats, they refuse to even invite all the Democrat candidates running for their parties’ nomination. While these partisans are participating in poorly disguised campaign rallies, Chris Collins is working on actual solutions, like passing the FIX NICS Act, supporting President Trump’s ban on bump stocks and passing the Stop School Violence Act.”

Piligra’s statement comes after MoveOn.org sent unsolicited text messages to local NY-27 residents promoting their forum. In addition to MoveOn’s blatant politicization of the rally, McMurray and his cronies also failed to invite all of the NY-27 candidates to participate – claiming they would not contribute to the “diversity of thought” they’re trying to achieve.

A photograph illustrating the wide selection of bridal wear that was donated to students in preparation of a recent Fashion 

Press Release:

Officials at Genesee Community College announced this week the addition of a new one-year Fashion Design Certificate program which is open for enrollment this fall! Throughout New York State, there is a shortage of skilled alteration sewers and individuals trained and qualified to use fashion design software. The new certificate program will provide an opportunity for individuals to take GCC’s core Fashion Design classes enabling them to start working in the fashion industry, start a small business or work from home in a fashion related capacity.

GCC’s mission statement includes a commitment “to providing educational experiences which promote intellectual and social growth, workforce and economic development and global citizenship.” The creation of this Fashion Design Certificate provides workforce and economic development in Western New York through the training and education of individuals in the burgeoning fashion design field which is a multi-billion dollar trade.

The new certificate is designed to be completed in two semesters and provides students with the basic principles of fashion design, sewing fundamentals and building an independent fashion business. Courses include topics and skills on basic sewing, draping and fashion technology, principles of fashion design, creative design drawing principles and entrepreneurship. The inclusion of the Entrepreneurship and Professional Sales courses help ensure students are prepared not only for the elements of fashion design, but also to work independently and potentially establish a new business or expand an existing one.

With steady enrollment in GCC’s two-year Fashion Business Merchandising/Design Concentrations (FBM), students have gained individualized instruction to bolster their confidence resulting in graduates who are equipped to enter the workforce or transfer to a four-year program. The new one-year Fashion Design Certificate, which is comprised entirely of existing courses that are required for the FBM program, positions students to easily apply certificate credits towards an associate in applied science in FBM at GCC. The College also has several articulation agreements with other institutions including the most recently added agreement with LIM and Cazenovia College. Many GCC students transfer to Buffalo State College and Fashion Institute Technology. In addition, GCC offers an innovative program that allows a student to complete their first two years at GCC, third year at Buffalo State and then move onto their final year at F.I.T. Anyone interested in taking advantage of these transfer opportunities is encouraged to contact GCC’s Student Success Center at (585) 345-6805 or via email at transfer@genesee.edu.

“The Fashion Design Certificate is the continuation of GCC’s very successful, 40-year, signature Fashion program,” Professor of Fashion Business Donna J. Ehrhart said. “Fashion Design is a field that draws in diverse individuals from a variety of backgrounds, ethnicities, traditions and customs-all contributing to its richness. This new one-year certificate creates an opportunity for even more individuals to take a solid first step into the multi-billion dollar global industry.”

The new Fashion Design Certificate adds fourth dimension to the GCC’s line-up of fashion-related degrees which also includes Fashion Merchandising Management AAS, Fashion Design AAS and two Fashion Business concentrations in E-Commerce and Event Planning. At this time, federal financial aid for the Fashion Design Certificate is still pending.

GCC Fashion Design students taking measurements in class

Anyone interested in exploring GCC’s Fashion Business programs should attend the 37th Annual Fashion Show, “Ascendant,” scheduled Saturday, April 28, 2018 at 7 p.m. in the new Richard C. Call Arena.

Advance tickets to the show are $5 per person and are available through Wednesday, April 25, 2018 by emailing fashionshow@genesee.edu. Tickets at the door are $8 per person. For an inside look at the 37th Annual Fashion Show, follow @trendygcc_ on Instagram or Twitter. You can also read GCC student blogs at https://geneseeedu.wordpress.com/blog/ for details.

Additional information about the Fashion Business Program and other degree programs is available at https://www.genesee.edu/academics/programs/business/fashion-design/.

For more information, contact Professor of Business & Computer Information Systems Donna Ehrhart at (585) 343-0055 ext. 6335, or via email: djehrhart@genesee.edu.

Training Video provided by BPD Officer Marc Lawrence

Local Police train to respond to an active shooter situation.
Lawmen from across Genesee County came together in Batavia to train for a situation they hope never to face.
Officers from multiple local agencies are training at the State School for the Blind to deal with an active shooter.
Batavia Police spokesman Marc Lawrence says the training is as real as it gets

The training was spaced out over a two week period and involved Batavia and LeRoy Police, Sheriff’s Deputies, Probation Officers and State Troopers.

The financially troubled Genesee County YWCA is making some progress.
It has been learned that the YW will resume its after-school programs at all of its regular sites beginning on Monday.
Calls to the YW’s Crisis Care Hotline are being answered by the Niagara County program which also helpedin getting the local after school programs back up and running.

The 5th Annual Genesee county Chamber of Commerce Home Show continues today at the Falleti Ice Arena.
The show is open today from 10a.m. to 5p.m. and Sunday from 10a.m. to 3p.m.

New York State is now requiring all new or recently renovated public restrooms to have diaper-changing stations.
Governor Cuomo says the law supports equal parenting and ensures all New Yorkers can give their children the care they need.
Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul says she never forgets the stress of being out in public in desperate need of a changing area for her children and not being able to find one.

Photo Courtesy: The Batavian (see more photos)

Lawmen from across Genesee County are in Batavia this afternoon training for a situation they hope never to face.
Officers from multiple local agencies are training at the State School for the Blind to deal with an active shooter.
Batavia Police spokesman Marc Lawrence says the training is as real as it gets

The training has been going on for the past two weeks.

National Grid reports just a handful of customers, fewer than 11, still have no power in Genesee County. The utility says the lights should be back on for everyone in the county by early evening.
Our of National Grid’s 1.6-million customers across New York State, 8-thosuand are still without power from this week’s wind storm.

The financially troubled Genesee County YWCA is making some progress.
It has been learned that the YW will resume its after-school programs at all of its regular sites beginning on Monday.
Calls to the YW’s Crisis Care Hotline are being answered by the Niagara County program which also helped in getting the local after school programs back up and running.

New York State is now requiring all new or recently renovated public restrooms to have diaper-changing stations.
Governor Cuomo says the law supports equal parenting and ensures all New Yorkers can give their children the care they need.
Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul says she never forgets the stress of being out in public in desperate need of a changing area for her children and not being able to find one.

Please Don’t Eat the Daisies
Health Departments Hosting Mock Exercise to Practice
Administering Vaccine to the Public in the Event of an Emergency

THIS IS AN EXERCISE

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED. The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments are inviting all to join in making this exercise a realistic one as the departments test their ability to dispense the necessary
vaccinations if a Hepatitis A outbreak occurs locally. If such an event occurs where many people are exposed or at risk, the local Public Health Departments are required to distribute no-cost vaccine within 48 hours and the location(s) offering vaccinations are called PODs (Point of Distribution sites).This 2 hour exercise is a shortened simulation of a 48 hour period of mass medication dispensing.

Hepatitis A POD
Genesee Community College, Batavia Campus Forum

Tuesday, April, 10th from 11:00am — 1:00pm
Participate at any time and enjoy Lunch on us!

Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. To pre-register visit HERE . Volunteers are able and encouraged to participate more than once to receive additional tickets for a slice of pizza and a bottle of water. No actual medication will be given.

Due to the exercise, both the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments will be closed from 10am — 2pm.

Please contact your local Health Department for more information,
Genesee 585-344-2580 x 5555 /
Orleans 585-589-3278

THIS IS AN EXERCISE

Law Enforcement from the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and Probation Department, State Police Troop A, along with both LeRoy and Batavia Police Departments have been taking part in an intense two week long Active Shooter Training.

Police Chief Shawn Heubusch said the training is sadly a necessity for all law enforcement in today’s day and age.

The Chief says the exercises are vastly different than other types of police training…

The Active Shooter Training has been on-going all week at the State School for the Blind’s Hamilton Hall in Batavia.

Officers were armed with plastic replica firearms and thrown into active shooter and bomb threat scenarios.

The collaboration of law enforcement entities has allowed officers to exchange techniques and coordinate responses to address the unfortunately growing concern of an active shooter threat.

Story provided by our news partner The Batavian.

Press Release:

Now that spring is here, many homeowners, business owners, schools and communities are planning outdoor landscaping projects. National Fuel reminds individuals and professionals to Call Before You Dig.

New York state law requires residents to call 811 – a free service – prior to digging in order to prevent accidental damage to underground utility lines. Before starting any landscaping, gardening or outdoor improvement projects this year, call 811, a toll-free national phone number, or visit www.call811.com.

The national 811 phone number connects callers with local One Call Centers. Operators record the excavation locations and notify National Fuel of callers’ plans. National Fuel then dispatches professional locators to mark the approximate positioning of lines for free. It’s a fast, easy way to be safe and protect those within the vicinity of the project.

New York homeowners and contractors should call 811 at least two and no more than 10 business days in advance of the start of their projects.

“All excavation projects – even small or shallow digging projects like planting trees and shrubs, or installing a fence or mailbox require a call,” said Emily Ciraolo, spokesperson for National Fuel. “Many of the pipeline leaks and emergencies we respond to each year occur when homeowners and businesses dig on their properties without knowing the location of underground utility lines. These types of accidents can be easily avoided by calling 811 before you dig – anywhere on your property.”

The Common Ground Alliance (CGA), a national association representing the utility industry and committed to saving lives and preventing damage to underground infrastructure, states that:

• There are more than 20 million miles of underground utilities in the United States.
• Every six minutes an underground utility line is damaged because someone decided to dig without first calling 811.
• When you make the call to 811, damage occurs less than 1 percent of the time.
• Thirty six percent of homeowners who plan to dig this year for projects will put themselves and their communities at risk by not calling 811 prior to digging.

As always, if you smell gas, leave fast! If a rotten-egg natural gas odor is present, leave the premises immediately without turning on or off any electrical appliances and call National Fuel’s emergency line (1-800-444-3130) from a different location. If you smell an odor of gas outdoors, please call National Fuel’s emergency number and provide the address nearest to the site of the odor.

Radiation Emergency Drill part of the Global Nuclear Awareness Program 

Press Release:

Medina, NY– Genesee Community College’s Responding to Emergencies adjunct instructor Patrick Seidel brings a wealth of expertise to his students. But when emergency response topic involve two exceptionally well-informed guest speakers and a topic of great public interest, the Medina Campus Center decided to expand the classroom roster to include the general public for the informative presentation. This classroom event is free and open to the public.

Dr. Linda Redfield-Shakoor and Paul Zimmerman will present information about the types of nuclear incidents which could occur in Western New York. Their lecture is scheduled Monday, April 16, 2018, from 7:00 – 8:30pm at the Medina Campus Center located at 11470 Maple Ridge Road in Medina. What challenges first responders may encounter and what basic protective steps first-responders should consider will be among the topics.

Dr. Redfield-Shakoor recently completed dissertation research at Niagara University focused on Western New York nursing students and the medical community, as well as first responders regarding their perceptions of risk, willingness to respond and emergency self-efficacy related to radiation emergencies. Paul Zimmerman is a researcher, educator and author with over 30 years of experience working on nuclear issues. He was a lecturer in World Life Institute’s Radiation Emergency Management (REM) seminars for first responders and medical personnel from 1989 to 1993. He subsequently served from 1993 to 2010 as a researcher at the Uranium Medical Research Center. Both Dr. Redfield-Shakoor and Mr. Zimmerman are associates in the Global Nuclear Awareness Program of World Life Institute’s Center of Excellence in Medina, NY.

The special classroom presentation is offered in association with the Global Nuclear Awareness Program, World Life Institute.

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