Local News

Press Release:

The Crime Victims Legal Network is a partnership of organizations working to create a website that will connect victims of crime with civil legal information and the assistance they need.

CVLN wants to make sure the website is easy to use, helpful, and appealing to the people who it is designed to serve, namely victims of crime and the professionals who work with them. They are holding a focus group in Oakfield and are looking for:

• English-speaking individuals
• Over the age of 18
• Who have been victims of a crime – such as burglary, identity theft, assault, discrimination, abuse, sexual assault, domestic violence, etc., OR work with victims of crime

The focus group will be held
March 27, 2018
Noon – 1 pm
Oakfield Town Hall
3219 Drake Street, Oakfield NY 14125

If you or someone you know would like to help by participating in the focus group, please RSVP to Dr. Dietzel at sdietzel@albany.edu

A Jury of 12 has found 26 year old Anthony Spencer Jr. of Batavia guilty on all counts.

Spencer who goes by the nick name “Trouble” was on trial for the July 18th assault on East Main Street in Batavia that left victim Jon Roblee clinging to life, bleeding uncontrollably from his arm.

The jury reached their verdict at around 9:30 this morning after beginning deliberations at approximately 3 o’clock yesterday.
Spencer was found guilty on count #1 of Gang Assault in the first degree and on count # 2 of Assault in the first degree.

Co-Defendant JW Hardy the Third also known as “Dub” or “Dubs” accepted a plea deal in December regarding the incident.
He was ultimately sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Spencer’s trial began at the beginning of this week with jury deliberations extending to this morning.

District Attorney Lawrence Friedman called an 18 year old witness who identified Spencer as one of the attackers.
She testified that the suspects were getting into a verbal altercation with victim Jon Roblee, threatening him to make a payment or something would happen to him or his friend.
She said Roblee went inside his residence and came out wielding a knife, then threatened other people in the area including her briefly.
A group of around 15 people gathered in the area.

Somehow co-defendant JW “Dubs” Hardy allegedly obtained the knife from the victim and soon the group turned the tables on Roblee and began chasing and beating him up and down the street.

The witness said that Spencer hit the victim in the head with a cooking pot with full force several times.

A dented cooking pot with a broken handle was submitted as evidence that the item was used with great force.
The cooking pot was located at the scene and the handle was found on Swan Street in between the scene and where Spencer was picked up at 218 Ellicott Street.

Defense Attorney Frederick Rarick argued that the testimony of the witness was suspect because she had only just met the suspect earlier that evening and that she was protecting other members of her group that he alleged were involved in the assault.

He questioned her ability to accurately recall the event because she admitted to drinking and smoking pot the night of the assault.

Rarick also noted in cross examination of both Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputy Kevin Forsyth and Batavia Police Detective Thaddeus Mart that they observed no blood on Spencer’s clothing when he was taken into custody the night of the assault.

DA Friedman argued the lack of blood on Spencer’s clothing proved nothing.

Spencer is scheduled for sentencing on April 6th at 9:15 a.m. and following a request by the DA, was ordered to be held without bail pending sentencing.

Investigation into the incident still continues as there were other alleged suspects involved that fled the scene.

Press Release:

Each year in April, the Office for Victims of Crime helps lead communities throughout the country in their annual observances of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW), which will be observed in 2018 on April 8-14. This year’s theme “Expand the Circle: Reach All Victims” emphasizes the importance of inclusion in victim services.

Criminal Justice Day 2018: Surviving and Thriving After Trauma
Monday, April 9, 2018
8:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Genesee Community College
Conable Technology Building, Room T102
1 College Road, Batavia NY

Keynote Speakers:
Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb of Cattaraugus County. Sheriff Whitcomb is a dynamic and powerful speaker who lectures on topics such as: post-traumatic stress disorder, suicide, and protecting and treating those exposed to trauma.

Eva Abrams, a survivor of the Holocaust, along with her daughter, Bonnie Abrams, who is Director of the Center of Holocaust Awareness and Information in Rochester. Eva was born in Oradea, Romania, in 1926 and was 17 when the Nazis occupied her hometown and sent her family to a ghetto. Her family was then deported to Auschwitz a month later.

***This day is sponsored in part by GCASA and Our Lady of Batavia Knights of Columbus***

Presented by the Criminal Justice Day 2018 Partners:

Batavia City Police, Justice for Children Advocacy Center, Genesee Community College, Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (GCASA), Genesee County District Attorney’s Office, Genesee County Mental Health, Genesee County Office for the Aging, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, Genesee County Youth Bureau, Genesee Justice, Mental Health Association of Genesee and Orleans Counties, RESTORE Sexual Assault Services, and YWCA of Genesee County.

Cost: $20.00* per person / $10.00* per student or senior (62+)
* includes lunch
For registration details: Contact Genesee Justice at 344-2550 ext. 3929
or e-mail: Holly.McAllister@co.genesee.ny.us

Ash encouraged students to believe in themselves and do what makes them happy.

Press Release:

Bergen, NY ~ Ballet star Aesha Ash told the hundreds of students at Byron-Bergen Elementary that when she was growing up in Rochester, “there were no princesses or fairies that looked like me. There were no magical creatures, unicorns or swans that looked like me.” When she dreamed of being a ballerina, she was told that there were no black ballerinas, and that she would never succeed. She dreamed anyway, and she did succeed. She was accepted to the legendary School of American Ballet where she was chosen to join the New York City Ballet when she was 18—one of the first black dancers in the corps.

How did this world-famous dancer and winner of the National Women’s History Museum’s 2016 Women Making History Award, come to be in Byron-Bergen? Fourth-grade teacher Alyson Tardy heard about Ash’s Swan Dreams Project, which was founded in 2011. This project uses powerful imagery to counter negative stereotypes of race and socio-economic background and inspire children to dream bigger. She thought that Ash’s message would be a great tie-in to the school’s character education program. She invited Ash and coordinated the special visit. Students surprised their visitor with a hallway lined with artwork featuring swans of many shapes and colors.

Students had the opportunity to meet international ballet star Aesha Ash in person after the formal presentation.

“The art is so beautiful,” said Ash. “I’m honored that the kids welcomed me this way.”

At the crowded assembly, Ash shared her story with attentive students, beginning with her passion for dance and her determination to become a ballerina. She explained how she was part of Rochester’s Urban Suburban program, and constantly faced questions and misunderstanding from peers about her background and city neighborhood. Her family was not rich; she told the story of borrowing toe shoes for her first tryout. Even when Ash became a professional ballet dancer, she felt a sense of not belonging, of being different.

Representatives from every grade level prepared a series of questions for Ash.

“All my life, I’ve fought to change perceptions and dispel myths—for myself, my family and my Rochester community,” she said. “The more that people told me that I couldn’t do something, the more I wanted to do it.”

Ash’s professional dance career lasted 13 years. It included eight years with the NYC Ballet along with performing in the Bejart Ballet in Switzerland and Alonzo King’s Lines Ballet, and with many other companies as a freelance artist. She and her family currently live in California where she is working to make the Swan Dreams Project an afterschool program. She hopes to open a studio where she can teach ballet to children who are not able to afford lessons. The Swan Dreams Project video she shared with Byron-Bergen students can be found at https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=7h58rXzsNhU

Now-retired ballerina Ash gamely performed chaînés turns in her high-heeled boots when the students requested a dance move.

Nanako Shiozawa sets school record in the 100 Butterfly here in Fort pierce Florida during Day Two of the NJCAA Championships (photo credit: GCC Athletics/Andrew Crofts)

Press Release:

Cougar Swimmers Break More Records on Second Day of NJCAA Nationals

The Genesee Community College swimming teams ended the second day of competition in the National Junior College Athletic Association Swimming and Diving Nationals with two new school records in Fort Pierce, Fla.

Nanako Shiozawa set a women’s record in the 100-meter butterfly with a 1:01.40 time early into the start of finals, while the men’s 400-meter medley relay completed the day with a school-record time of 3:39.70.

Including those two school records, overall the Cougars recorded four top-10 finishes in both men’s and women’s competition.

Leading the women was Shiozawa’s aforementioned record that was good for fifth place. Angel Priest finished seventh in the 50-meter backstroke with a 29.45 time. The women’s 200-meter freestyle relay team finished eighth with a 1:48.58 time, and the 400-meter medley relay team finished 10th with a 4:38.18 time.

Leading the men was Ferran Martinez’s fourth-place finish in the 400-meter individual medley with a 4:08.94 time. Just like the women’s team, the men recorded top-10 finishes in both the 400-meter medley and 200-meter freestyle relays. The former was the school record time previously mentioned for a seventh-place finish, while the latter was good for an eighth-place finish at 1:32.52. Joan Ferrer rounded out the men’s top-10 finishes with a ninth-place showing in the 100-meter butterfly with a 53.82 time.

Both Nathan Richardson and Brandon Brown just missed top-10 finishes. Richardson in the 50-meter backstroke (25.91) and Brown in the 200-meter freestyle (1:52.44), with the pair both finishing 11th. Also competing in the latter event was Matthew Langerman with a 14th place finish (1:54.55), while Ryan Mahaney finished 16th in the 100-meter butterfly (59.67).

Natalie Amico recorded a 15th place finish in the 100-meter butterfly to round out the women’s top-15 finishes.

While the men’s team remained in eighth place with 134 points after the second day, the women’s team moved up two spots to 10th with 75 points.

GCC Sports Information
Mark Jagord

Teen jailed for school shooting threat in LeRoy.
A 16 year old Leroy student is behind bars after being arrested and charged with making a terroristic threat.
The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported threat at the LeRoy Junior-Senior High School on Wednesday afternoon.
The 16 year old male student who resides in Stafford had allegedly been involved in several confrontations with other students in a hallway and threatened to shoot another student.
No weapons were found and no injuries were reported.
The student is facing a Class D Felony and was remanded to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bail.
The Sheriff’s Office thanked the School Administration and staff for their quick action during the incident and reminds citizens of their “no Tolerance policy” for any threats of violence involving a school, students or staff.

Investigators search for a motive in Perry murder case.
Former Wyoming County Sheriff Sergeant and Perry Town Board Member 60 year old Joseph Mlyniec of Perry remains behind bars while the investigation into the murder of 32 year old Robert Irvine of Perry the third continues.
He allegedly shot Irvine in the head while in the driveway of his home on Route 246 in Perry at around quarter to 6 Wednesday night.
Mlyniec called 911 himself to report the shooting and following a brief conversation with two deputies who responded, he was taken into custody without incident.
Investigators say the two men were acquainted however they do not have a clear motive for the shooting and Mlyniec did not give a formal statement.
Mlyniec continues to be held without bail with the investigation on-going.

Victims emerge during investigation in an Albion couple’s alleged sex abuse.
Police say more victims are coming forward accusing Albion residents, 54 year old Renee Koch and her boyfriend 45 year old Richard Hering Jr. of sexually abusing them.
The couple was arrested and charged with forcible touching, sex abuse and acting in a manner injurious to a child less than 17 years of age.
They are accused of sexually abusing children between the ages of 12 and 16 during a number of reported incidents last year.
The couple are due back in Orleans County Court next Tuesday.

The New York Senate is considering a bill that would legalize sports betting in the Empire State. The legislation, introduced yesterday, would make it legal to place bets in casinos and online. There would be an eight-and-a-half-percent tax on gross revenue. Proponents say legalized sports betting would generate between $10 and $30 million a year for New York.

For the second week in a row, flu rates are down across New York.
The latest numbers by the state show a more than 50-percent drop in new flu cases from the week before.
Positive flu rates in Western New York are at a nearly two-month low.
The flu has been geographically widespread in the state for more than three months and has caused nearly 20-thousand hospitalizations.

A 16 year old LeRoy High School student is locked up in the Genesee County jail for allegedly threatening to shoot another student.
Police tell WBTA the 16 year old was involved in a confrontation yesterday with several other students in a school hallway.
Police say threats were made but no weapon was displayed and no one was hurt.
The 16 year old boy from Stafford was charged with Making a Terroristic Threat, a low grade felony. He is being held on $10,000 bail.
The Sheriff’s Office says it has a “no tolerance policy” for any violence or threat of violence directed at anyone in a school.

Joseph Mylyniec

A retired Wyoming County Sheriff’s sergeant and current Perry Town Board member has been arrested for murder.
60 year old Joseph S. Mylniec is charged with in the shooting death of 32 year old Robert Irvine III of Perry.
Authorities said Myliec shot Irvine in the head early last evening while in the driveway of Myliec’s home on Route 246 in Perry.
No motive for the shooting was made public. The two men reportedly knew each other.
Mylniec called deputies to report the shooting and was taken into custody without incident.
He has been charged with Second Degree murder andis being held without bail in the Wyoming County jail.

The man infamous for streaking across New Era Field during a Bills game last November may be redeeming himself.
Tristan Lambright rescued a Lackawanna family’s cat had been stuck high up in a tree for more than a week. He scaled the tree and safely removed the fragile feline.
The rescue was caught on video and as of last night, it had more than ten-thousand views on Facebook.

News Release: Genesee County Sheriff’s Office

The Genesee County Sheriffs Office responded yesterday afternoon to a report from the LeRoy Junior-Senior High School, 9300 South Street Road in the Town LeRoy that a student had threatened to shoot another student. Upon the arrival of Sheriffs Deputies, it was learned from School Officials that a 16 year-old male student had been involved in a confrontation with several students in a hallway and the threats were made. No weapons were displayed and no injuries occurred.

The 16 year-old male resident of the Town of Stafford was subsequently charged with Making a Terroristic Threat, a class D Felony. Arraigned before Town of LeRoy Justice John Duyssen, the defendant was remanded to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bail to await further court proceedings.

The Sheriffs Office commends the School’s Administration and staff for their quick notification and assistance during this investigation and reminds citizens that we have a “no tolerance policy” for any violence or threats of violence directed at anyone in school or about school.

Official Men’s Soccer championship Photo

Press Release:

NJCAA National Champion GCC Men’s Soccer Ring Ceremony Live-Streamed March 8

In a private ceremony on the Batavia Campus of Genesee Community College, the 2017 National Junior College Athletic Association Cougars’ men’s soccer team will be presented their national championship rings.

The event will be live-streamed around 5 p.m.(EST) March 8 on GCC Special Events Channel 2 with the following internet link:

https://www.genesee.edu/home/event-streaming/streaming-channel-2/

In addition to GCC President James M. Sunser, other speakers include director of athletics Kristen Schuth, coaches Ken Gavin and Josh Carpenter, and team captains Glenn Holmes and Joseph Calvert.

A highlight video is also planned prior to the official ring ceremony and introduction of the team.

Reika Murota (Yachiyo, Japan) and Rahmel Thompson (Jamaica, NY)

Cougar Athletes of the Week Announced

The Genesee Community College’s athletes of the week for the period ending March 3 are Reika Murota (Yachiyo, Japan) from the women’s basketball team and Rahmel Thompson (Jamaica, NY) from the men’s basketball team.

Murota led the Cougars to their most convincing WNYAC win this season with a team-high 22 points at Mercyhurst North East Feb. 28 in a game where Genesee never trailed and won by 16 points, 78-62. The 22 points were also a season-high, eclipsing her previous total of 17 against Herkimer County Community College Jan. 16. Murota shot 64 percent from the field, but her 18 points from beyond the arc were the most impressive as they came with a 66 percent shooting accuracy. In addition, she also added an assist and block in the season-finale win.

Thompson became only the 13th men’s basketball player in GCC history to top 1,000 points in a career when he scored 21 points last week in the regular season finale for the Cougars. Thompson added a team high three steals in the win over Mercyhurst University – North East securing the third seed in the upcoming Region III-Division II/NJCAA District II Tournament. It was Thompson’s third-consecutive 20 or more point performance where the team has seen an offensive surge by averaging 99 points during that span. For his efforts, Thompson was also named NJCAA Region-III Male Athlete of the Week.

GCC Sports Information
Mark Jagord

Ferran Martinez

Press Release:

Cougar Swimmers Complete First Day of NJCAA Nationals

The Genesee Community College swimming teams began competition in the National Junior College Athletic Association Swimming and Diving Nationals in Fort Pierce, Fla.

The Cougars highlight was the breaking of the men’s 200-meter medley relay with a new school record time of 1:40.10. The record-breaking group included Nathan Richardson, Ferran Martinez, Joan Ferrer and Ryan Mahaney. The seventh-place finish was the best on the day for GCC.

Host Indian River State College leads both the men’s and women’s scores after the first day with 290 and 326 points, respectively. The Cougar men’s team sits in eighth after the first day, while the women’s are tied-12th.

The best event for the Cougars turned out to be the 200-meter individual medley. In the women’s race, Nanako Shiozawa finished eighth with a 2:19.04 time, while Martinez and Richardson finished in 10th and 15th respectively in the men’s race. Martinez clocked in at 1:56.90 and Richardson at 2:03.95.

In individual competition, while Shiozawa’s eighth-place finish was the best for the women’s team, Matthew Langerman’s eighth-place finish in the 1000-meter freestyle was the best for the men’s team with a 10:22.18 time.

The Cougars had three top-20 finishers in the 1000-meter freestyle. In addition to Langerman, Brandon Brown and Alex Bookmiller finished 16th and 18th respectively. Brown finished with a 10:47.50 time and Bookmiller with a 11:09.02 time.

Rounding out Cougar top-20 finishes was Benjamin Vacanti in the 50-meter breaststroke with a time of 29.65.

GCC Sports Information
Mark Jagord

Murder in Perry lands a former lawmen in lock up.
The Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed to WBTA that Joseph Milyniec of Perry has been arrested and charged for second degree Murder.
He is accused of shooting and killing Robert Irvine the third during an incident at Milyniec’s home on Route 246 in Perry at around 5 p.m. yesterday evening.
Milnyiec is a current Perry Town Board member, a retired Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant and a past president of the Perry Center Volunteer Fire Department.
He was arrested a few minutes before midnight last night and after being arraigned was committed without bail to the Wyoming County Jail.
According to the Sheriff’s Office a more detailed arrest report will be forthcoming sometime this morning.

Scottsville Woman faces felony in LeRoy for driving drunk with three kids.
32 year old Amy Page of North Road in Scottsville was arrested and charged with a Felony Aggravated DWI under Leandra’s Law and three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child.
A concerned citizen reported an erratic driver last Sunday on Route 5 near Stafford.
They reported that Page’s vehicle had almost hit two other vehicles and was driving in the wrong lane going off the road numerous times.
LeRoy Police located the vehicle after Page turned into a parking lot on West Main Street and allegedly drove into a snowbank.
She recorded a Blood Alcohol Content above .18%
Page was committed to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $2,500 bail and a full stay away order of protection was issued for the children.

Law Enforcement and Legislators in Genesee County agree that they want a police officer in every school in the county.
Local Lawmen and state government representatives met recently to address the growing concern of school safety against the backdrop of the tragic school shooting in Florida.
The general consensus from the meeting was that there should be a resource officer in every school.
Currently LeRoy Schools are covered by LeRoy Police, the Genesee county Sheriff’s Office provides a deputy for Byron-Bergen and Genesee Valley BOCES and Batavia PD provides resource officers at city schools.
Sheriff William Sheron says it is his goal to a have a resource officer in every school building.
The big question remains how to pay for the amount of resource officers needed to meet the goal.

State Police in Batavia are alerting the public of a new Bank text message scam.
State Police say if you receive a text from your personal banking cooperation it could be a scam!

The message alert will appear like it was sent from the bank and will have a way for you to “contently” contact them back.
Police say DO NOT give your personal banking account or credit/debit card information or over the phone or by email.
If you have questions or concerns about your banking accounts, contact your bank directly or in person.

Genesee County lawmen and agree they want every school in the county to have a police officer in their building.
The question is: how to pay for it.
Law enforcement officials and state government representatives met recently against the backdrop of the tragic school school in Florida.
According to a statement released following the meeting, there was a general consensus that there should be a resource officer in every school.
LeRoy PD provides an officer to LeRoy Schools, Byron-Bergen and Genesee Valley BOCES is covered by a deputy from the Genesee county Sheriff’s Office and Batavia PD provides security aides for city schools.
Sheriff William Sheron says it is his goal to a have a resource officer in every school building.

A former teacher at Brockport Central Schools pleads guilty to child pornography charges.
31 year old Roland Yockel faces to 5 to 20 years in in Federal Prison. He will be sentenced in June.
Prosecutors say Yockel lived in the basement of his parent’s home where his mother providing baby-sitting services.

The Elba Lady Lancers continue in girls high school basketball playoffs.
Elba defeated Wheatland-0Chili last night in a game called by WBTA’s John Vazquez

Elba now takes on Franklinville Saturday afternoon at 3 at Rush-Henrietta in the Far West Regionals.

Jurors in the corruption trial of a former top aide to Governor Cuomo are getting a snow day. Joseph Percoco has been on trial for six weeks in for allegedly accepting bribes.
The jury says it’s deadlocked and a few jurors have asked to be dismissed for exhaustion. The judge ordered the jury to get back to deliberating tomorrow morning.

SRO-Deputy Matt Butler

Press Release:

Genesee County Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr. hosted a meeting last week with Genesee County School Superintendents, local police officials, local government representatives, along with state representatives Assemblyman Steve Hawley and Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer, to discuss school safety concerns and the viability of having School Resource Officers within each school district.

Senator Ranzenhofer & Sheriff Sheron

“School Resource Officers can play an important role in our school districts, from helping to resolve conflict to preventing tragedies. I fully support placing these officers in our local school districts, and I have been working to secure state funding to expand School Resource Officers in Genesee County and across New York State. I commend Sheriff Sheron for his leadership on this issue, and I will continue to work with him to keep our children safe,” said State Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer.

While it was the consensus of most of those in attendance that there should be a School Resource Officer in each school within the county, concerns were expressed of how to fund the position and identifying the source of this funding. The attendees discussed a variety of possible federal, state and local options and agreed to explore funding sources to offset the cost of the potential School Resource Officers.

Assemblyman Hawley

“I was pleased to meet with Sheriff Sheron, local educators and community stakeholders to discuss how we can increase school safety. The state needs to take action to help our schools become the most secure and comfortable environments they can be. We need to look at working with retired law enforcement and veterans in our schools because our children’s safety should be our number one priority,” said Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia).

Currently, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office has School Resource Officers at the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership’s (BOCES) Batavia Campus (for the past 15 years) and in the Byron-Bergen Central School District (for the past three years). Additionally, the Village of LeRoy Police Department provides a School Resource Officer to the LeRoy School District, and the Batavia City School District has Security Aides within its facilities.

During the meeting, representatives from Genesee Valley Educational Partnership’s (BOCES) Batavia Campus and the Byron-Bergen School District spoke highly about the advantages of having a School Resource Officer. They explained that it not only provides a safe environment for the students and faculty but also provides for direct interaction and guidance with the students. Both officials agreed that the benefits of having a School Resource Officer far outweigh the expense associated with the position.

“When we started our SRO Program 15 years ago, the prevailing question was, ‘Why?’” said Christopher Hayward, LeRoy Police Chief. “With everything that has happened in the last 15 years, and sadly will continue to happen, the question has to be, ‘Why not?’”

Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch stated, “the City Police Department remains dedicated to the safety and security of all schools within its district. The time has come for the lawmakers in this state to step up and allow school districts to utilize their aid in establishing programs that make sense on a local level. This type of flexibility would go a long way to allowing each district in Genesee County to partner with local law enforcement to provide a School Resource Officer.”

Sheriff Sheron stated that it his goal to establish a School Resource Officer in all county schools to ensure the safety and protection of the students and faculty. “Although the cost associated with placing a School Resource Officer in the schools is significant, I believe the safety and security of our children should be of the utmost precedence.”

Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies will be visiting schools on a regular basis and assist during school safety drills. This will aid in familiarizing Deputies with the school’s faculty and students along with the layout and procedures of each school.

Press Release:

A complaint from a concerned citizen of an erratic driver on 3/04/2018 led to a Felony Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated Charge with a Child (Leandra’s Law) and three counts of Misdemeanor Endangering the Welfare of a Child for 32 yr old Amy M. Page of 526 North Rd, Scottsville.

The caller, who was following the vehicle that Page was driving, reported that Page’s vehicle almost hit two vehicles on Route 5 near Stafford, was driving in the wrong lane and went off the road numerous times.

Page’s vehicle was located by the LeRoy Police Department after it turned into the parking lot of the business on West Main Street in the Village and allegedly drove into a snowbank.

During the course of the investigation, It was Alleged that Page was Intoxicated with a Blood Alcohol Content above .18% and did so with three children in the vehicle.

Page was arraigned in the Town of LeRoy Court and committed to the Genesee County Jail on $2,500 bail and a full stay away order of protection was issued for Page to stay away from the children.

65 year old Felix Cabrera-Lopez of Emerson Street in Rochester was stopped on South Lake Ave in Bergen late Tuesday night where he was arrested for Aggravated Unlicensed Operation and for having an Uninspected Vehicle.

Deputies found that Cabrera-Lopez had his driving privileges revoked on at least 10 different occasions.

He was released under supervision of Genesee Justice.

53 year old Anthony Calabrese of Firestone Road in Lackawanna was stopped for allegedly speeding on Route 5 in Batavia early Tuesday morning.

Calabrese was accused of being intoxicated and was taken into custody for DWI.

He was additionally charged with speeding, moving from a lane unsafely and Misuse of dealer plates.

He was released with an appearance ticket returnable to Batavia Town Court on April 19th.

Dr. Thomas C. Priester, courtesy of GCC

Press Release:

Officials at Genesee Community College announced that Dr. Thomas C. Priester of Lancaster, NY has accepted the position of associate dean of the Wyoming County Campus Centers in Arcade and Warsaw. Dr. Priester has been operating as interim dean since the summer of 2017 when his predecessor retired. He came to GCC in 2012 as an instructor of Transitional Studies and was named director of Transitional Studies in 2015. Prior to GCC, Dr. Priester worked as the director of Academic Success at Finger Lakes Community College and the program coordinator at Monroe Community College.

“I first came to GCC for an opportunity to serve as a faculty member at a forward-moving community college in Western New York,” Dr. Priester said. “Community colleges are affordable, transformational institutions. From access to success, the unique role of the community college is to meet students where they are and help to get them to where it is they want to go. As hope-inspired institutions dedicated to helping students interact with the future, community colleges assist students overcome barriers to enrollment, develop and deliver rigorous curricula that prepare students for their respective life-career goals, and lead purposeful efforts that activate student persistence, retention and completion.”

Dr. Priester also serves as a lecturer for the Higher Education Administration graduate program at SUNY Buffalo State College, and he is a member of the board of directors for the SUNY Fredonia Alumni Association, an accreditation reviewer for the National Association for Developmental Education and a peer evaluator for the Middle States Commission of Higher Education.

“Tom’s commitment to the Wyoming County community and his dedication to higher education are evident in the work he began as interim associate dean,” said Dr. Craig Lamb, dean of Distributed Learning who oversees both GCC’s six Campus Centers and Online Learning. “His official appointment as associate dean will only spur his efforts and allow him to continue to serve our students, our faculty and staff, and our communities.”

Dr. Priester earned his B.A. in Secondary English Education at SUNY Fredonia, his M.S. in Student Personnel Administration at SUNY Buffalo State College, and his Ed.D. in Executive Leadership at St. John Fisher College.
“With the academic and life-career success of our students (both inside and outside of the classroom) as our motivating factor, I am thrilled to work closely with the exemplary team of faculty and staff at the Wyoming County Campus Centers as we work together towards our common goal-student success,” Priester said. “While relationships are the currency of higher education, one of our immediate goals is to rejuvenate successful relationships with local high school personnel and community members to position both the Arcade and Warsaw Campus Centers as educational hubs in Wyoming County. Ultimately, we plan to keep our hallways hoppin’!”

In Wyoming County, the Arcade Campus Center was established in 1995 and is located at 25 Edward Street, Arcade, NY 14009, https://www.genesee.edu/home/about/campuses/arcade/; and the Warsaw Campus Center was established in 1991 and is located at 115 Linwood Avenue in the YMCA Building, Warsaw, NY 14569, https://www.genesee.edu/home/about/campuses/warsaw/.

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

Jason Chiodo (left) carries the ball before scoring one of five goals in a 15-10 win at MCC (photo credit:GCC Athletics/Mark Jagord)

Press Release:

Men’s Lacrosse Team Scores Double-Digit Middle Frames to Rally Over MCC

The Genesee Community College men’s lacrosse team must have had the weather on their minds because like the temperature, the team had a cold start. The Cougars put together back-to-back five goal quarters for a combined 10-goals in the middle frames in the second and third to coast to a 15-10 road win to open the season.

After trailing 4-2 after the first quarter, the team rallied to take a 7-5 lead at the intermission and then scored eight more goals in the next two quarters. Andrew Forte was a key figure in giving the Cougars possession after dominating the faceoff circle with 18 wins.

Genesee had four multi-goal scorers and was led by Jason Chiodo’s five goals. Alex Mack scored three including the game winner, while Jordan Brennan and Evan Holfelder each added a pair. Single tallies came from Kevin McParlene, Patrick Bilbrey and Tyler Thompson.

Brennan and McParlene co-led the team in assists with three, while Chiodo also recorded a pair of helpers for a seven-point night. Garrett Lazore and Lincoln Potter split equal time in the cage with Lazore getting the start and recording four saves, while Potter recorded three saves in relief with each logging 30 minutes. Although each keeper allowed five goals against, one of Lazore’s and two of Potters’ were while Monroe was man-up.

Genesee had 18 more shots toward the net than Monroe at 51-33 and also won 14 more draws than the Tribunes at 40-26.

Jason Chiodo blows this shot past Monroe’s netminder and would pick up seven points on the day with five goals and two helpers

Mark Jagord
GCC Sports Information

2017 Virtual Business Trade Fair, courtesy of GCC

Press Release:

Genesee Community College is pleased to host the Virtual Business Trade Fair on Thursday, March 22, 2018. The trade fair will be set up in GCC’s William H. Stuart Forum at the Batavia Campus from 10 to 11:30 a.m. for everyone to come and enjoy some virtual shopping.

The Virtual Business Trade Fair, available through the Accelerated College Enrollment (ACE) Program, provides students enrolled in economics and entrepreneurship courses with a hands-on learning opportunity to apply the theories, practices and knowledge from their classroom learning to an almost-real innovative business venture. The students work collaboratively to develop all of the components of a successful virtual business. They begin by writing mission statements and conducting extensive research into product features and competition, and culminate their work in building advertising pieces and their trade fair displays.

The students’ trade fair goal is to sell their products or services and allow the attendees to make purchases with virtual dollars. Community members are invited to come, pick up virtual spending dollars, shop any of the companies and support our local students. Thousands of virtual dollars will be given out to attendees to “spend.” At the end of the trade fair, the business or school with the most virtual dollars and virtual sales will be recognized.

As in years past, high schoolers from the Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties will come to the forum and set up booths to “sell” their virtual products and services. This year will feature the following high schooler-created companies:

• Batavia High School featuring Relaxation Corporation
• Byron-Bergen High School featuring Survival Surplus
• Dansville High School featuring Trendline Designs
• LeRoy High School featuring Wide Awake Café
• Livonia High School featuring Delicious Deliveries
• Notre Dame High School featuring Cruisin’ Cuisine
• Pavilion High School featuring Spectrum
• Pavilion High School featuring Tailgatorz
• Wayland-Cohocton High School featuring iSnack
• WNY Tech Academy featuring AmeriWare

“The students learn so much building their virtual businesses. From basic business operations to salesmanship and marketing strategies, booth design and product presentation, this is a complete hands-on learning experience,” Deborah Dunlevy, Career Pathways Program director said. “It’s wonderful to watch the students learn to work collaboratively to make their businesses and the event successful.”

For the third year, volunteer bankers from M&T Bank will be on-site to help the virtual businesses to track and manage their sales.

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

2017 Virtual Business Trade Fair, courtesy of GCC

Press Release:

“Facebook Marketing” will be the subject of a small business workshop to be hosted the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce on March 14.

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 business professionals designed to help small businesses succeed and grow.

“Facebook marketing is a great way to market your business at a lower cost,” said Tom Turnbull, Chamber President. “This workshop will offer tips on how to make your Facebook marketing more effective.”

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.

Press Release:

While Batavia and Genesee County have long been recognized as one of the top micropolitan regions in the United States, the area received its highest ranking ever as it climbed all the way to number 2 among 575 micropolitans across the country. The annual rankings are compiled by Site Selection magazine.

Batavia was the only town in New York State to be ranked in the top 40 of micropolitans. It is the fifteenth consecutive year Batavia and Genesee County have been recognized. The ranking of “Top Micropolitans” is based on cities of 10,000 to 50,000 people which cover at least one county.

“This is a tremendous accomplishment and it once again demonstrates the commitment and collaboration among the public and private sectors to bring new investment and jobs to the region and just as important assisting companies that are already here in expanding and retaining jobs,” said Steve Hyde, President and CEO of the GCEDC.

The GCEDC achieved 16 project “wins” in 2017 that generated approximately $240 million in investment.
Since 2003, the GCEDC has provided similar assistance and incentives for 449 projects which have generated $1.3 billion in capital investment and the creation and/or retention of approximately 4,528 jobs.

Full the full list of rankings, including some commentary about the region’s rise to 2nd place, please visit:
https://siteselection.com/issues/2018/mar/top-micros-2017-crowning-achievement.cfm?utm_source=Dispatch&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Editorial

Former kindergarten teacher in Brockport pleads guilty to child porn charge.
Prison awaits a disgraced former teacher at the Brockport Central School following a guilty plea for receiving child pornography.
31 year old Roland Yockel the second admitted to receiving and possessing the material in a Federal Court in Buffalo Yesterday.
Yockel is said to have lived in the basement of his parents’ home with his mother providing babysitting services at the residnce.
Last year investigators searched through his residence uncovering hundreds of child porn videos.
Officers even found children’s underwear beneath his mattress.
Yockel admitted he had contact with a girl under seven years old who was being babysat by his mother.
He faces between 5 and 20 years behind bars when he is sentenced in June.

Flu rates on the decline after tripling previous cases recorded.
Health Director Paul Petitt reported to the Human Services Committee during their Monday meeting, that there have been 520 confirmed flu cases in Genesee County this season.
The number is nearly three times the average of the 150 to 200 cases usually recorded during the same period.
Fortunately the number of reported cases is beginning to slow, however there is typically a second peak during flu season.
Petitt said the flu shot is still the best way to prevent or reduce the severity of the flu even though it is only reported to be around 40 percent effective.

A 100 year old home is lost to an early morning fire in Batavia.
Flames ripped through the home on 20 Columbia Avenue yesterday morning destroying the home and belongings of a family of five .
Fortunately there were no injuries.
The fire went to a third alarm with crews from Elba and Alexander activated as well as the Town and City of Batavia Departments.
The home was declared a total loss and several pet dogs perished in the blaze.

Two Medina residents behind bars for drugs and funny money.
A home visit by Parole officers at a Medina residence allegedly uncovered a small amount of pot along with bag of various other drugs.
That spurred a full search of the residence with a police K-9 unit.
The search uncovered even more cocaine and marijuana along with a large sum of money as well as several counterfeit bills in 100 dollar denominations.
Collen Poole and Rebekah Champlin were both arrested and charged with felony counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with intent to sell along with several other related charges.
Both were committed to the Orleans County Jail.
Poole was ordered to be held without bail and Champlin was held in lieu of $25,000 bail.

A brand-new initiative to sniff out suspected opioid dealers in Western New York is off to a fast start.
On Monday, law enforcement in Erie County offered people up to $2,500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of an opioid dealer.
It said about 70 tips were received within 24 hours of the offer.
The Erie County D-A has set aside $45,000 to reward tipsters through Crime Stoppers Buffalo.
WHEC says they’re working to find out if Rochester will start a similar program.

The number of confirmed cases of the Flu in Genesee County this year is three times what it was last year.
County Health Director Paul Petit told the legislatures Human Services committee yesterday there were 520 confirmed cases so far this flu season, compared to 150 cases last year.
There was a bit of positive news: Petit said the number of new cases seems to have slowed but he added that there is usually a second peak of cases before the season is over.
Petit also reported there was a cases of rabies in January. A total of 12 people required treatment after they took in a stray kitten that tested positive for rabies.

PHOTO: Courtesy: The Batavian

Fire at 20 Columbia Avenue this morning rips through a 100 year old home.
There were no injuries.
A family of five, including an infant, has been left homeless.
City of Batavia Fire Captain Marty Heinz;

Three alarms were sounded to bring the blaze under control.
The home and contents declared a total loss. Several pets dogs perished in the blaze.

Two Medina residents busted with drugs and phony money.
Collen Poole and Rebekah Champlin were both arrested during a parole visit last week. Authorities say the found a quantity of cocaine and pot along with several counterfeit $100 bills.
Both were committed to the Orleans County Jail where they held on $25,000 bail.

Darien Lake is hiring for the upcoming summer season. The amusement park is looking to fill 1,600 positions in lodging, entertainment and food service. The theme park is holding a job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at its Lodge on the Lake Hotel.

Health Director Paul Petitt reported to the Human Services Committee at a meeting yesterday that there have been 520 confirmed flu cases in Genesee County this season.

That’s well over twice the average of the 150 to 200 cases usually recorded during flu season.

Fortunately the number of reported cases is beginning to slow, however there is typically a second peak during flu season.

Petitt said the flu shot is still the best way to prevent or reduce the severity of the flu even though it is only reported to be around 40 percent effective.

For more on the story check the article by our news partner The Batavian.

Parole officers allegedly located a small amount of pot along with bag of various other drugs during a home visit Thursday in Medina.

The discovery led to a thorough search of the residence by Local and State Police along with a K-9 unit.

The search uncovered even more cocaine and marijuana along with a large sum of money as well as several counterfeit bills in 100 dollar denominations.

Collen Poole and Rebekah Champlin were both arrested and charged with felony counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance with intent to sell along with several other related charges.

Both were committed to the Orleans County Jail.

Poole was ordered to be held without bail and Champlin was held in lieu of $25,000 bail.

Press Release:

When we think of nurses, we think of the care they provide to patients in a hospital, nursing homes, medical offices or schools. However, Genesee Community College’s Nurse’s Club is taking “care” to another level. On Saturday, March 10, 2018 GCC’s Nurse’s Club will host a community Easter Basket Assembly event at the Dr. Bruce A. Holm Upstate MedTech Centre. Beginning at 10:30 a.m. the entire community is invited to come and help assemble the baskets. Families are encouraged to bring their children and donate a couple hours to this meaningful community project.

The Nurse’s Club’s goal is to prepare 50 baskets to be given to the families staying in the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester on Westmoreland Drive as well as the House within the Hospital in Rochester.

Supporting GCC’s Nurse’s Club, Willow Group, Ltd. of Batavia has donated all 50 baskets and Pauly’s Pizza also of Batavia is donating pizza for the basket-makers to enjoy during the assembly event. The club is currently accepting monetary donations, candy (no peanuts), plastic eggs, playdoh, sidewalk chalk, or other Easter goodies to fill the baskets. The club is also eager to welcome any volunteers who’d like to help assemble. To volunteer or to make a donation, please contact Sandy Kosciolek at sdkosciolek@genesee.edu or (585) 343-0055 ext.6355 by March 7, 2018.

“The families staying at the Ronald McDonald House are there to be near their sick children. They didn’t choose to find themselves there during the Easter holiday, but they are there. These baskets will hopefully lift their spirits and make the holiday a little easier,” Rebecca Herlan, a GCC nursing instructor and co-advisor to the Nurse’s Club. “Often times, the hospitalized child’s siblings are staying at the Ronald McDonald House too and so these baskets will go to them as well.”

For Trista Teets, the student organizing the entire event, this is much more than a community service project, it is about the warmth these donations bring to the hearts of these children and families. Teets’s daughter was a patient at Golisano Children’s Hospital when she was just two weeks old. “It was Easter time and our entire family was so wrapped up in our daughter’s care, we had no time or energy left for an Easter celebration for our older children. The Easter Bunny and a local police officer visited the hospital and gave both of our sons a small stuffed bunny. It made our sons smile and our hearts melt. I am hoping this basket event will do the same for other families who are just trying to get through this difficult time in their lives,” says Teets.

The Ronald McDonald House provides a “home-away-from-home” for families while their children receive the medical care they need. The Westmoreland Drive House has 24 bedrooms, three kitchens, complimentary laundry facilities, gardens and play areas where kids can be kids. The house also provides meals and snacks for the families and transportation to and from the medical facilities is available. More information about the Ronald McDonald House Charities including ways to donate or volunteer is available at http://www.rmhcrochester.org/.

The Nurse’s Club at GCC was founded over two decades ago with the desire to promote community involvement and leadership. The club members provide health information and charitable contributions to organizations related to the health care industry. In addition to the basket assembly event, the club is currently operating a drive to collect towels and feminine hygiene products for the House of Mercy in Rochester.

The basket assembly event will take place at the Dr. Bruce A. Holm Upstate MedTech Centre which is located at 99 MedTech Drive in Batavia, across the street from GCC’s Main campus. The MedTech Center provides GCC’s Nursing Program students with state-of-the-art medical equipment and laboratories. The facility also houses the United Memorial Medical Center’s Physical Therapy program and the Genesee County Economic Development Center offices.

To volunteer, to make a donation, or for further information please contact Sandy Kosciolek at sdkosciolek@genesee.edu or (585) 343-0055 ext.6355 by March 7, 2018.

Fire crews face tight quarters in structure fire on Columbia Ave.
What was initially reported as a basement fire on Columbia Ave in the city quickly went to a second then a third alarm after spreading to the upper floors.
Firefighters were called to respond at around 4:20 this morning for a working struture fire at 20 Columbia Ave near Ellsworth Ave in Batavia.
First responders reported only a few flames were visible however there was heavy smoke pouring out of the house.

City of Batavia Fire Captain Marty Hinz…

City of Batavia Fire Chief Stefano Napolitano…

City and Town of Batavia Fire Departments along with Elba Fire and Alexander’s Fast Team were all activated.
Firefighters had a tough job maneuvering equipment around the scene due to the closely neighboring buildings and the narrow street.
There have been no serious injuries reported and all the occupants along with a pet dog made it out safely.
The occupants are said to have several pets which have yet to be accounted for.
The Chief said the building appears to be a total loss as of his current assesment.

Troopers arrest a Lockport man on multiple felony drug and gun charges, with five kids in the car.
Police received a report of reckless operation on Transit Road near the Wendy’s and Walmart in Lockport.
Troopers located the 2016 Nissan speeding through a parking lot and performed a traffic stop.
After failing a field sobriety test, 26 year old Alexander Ruof-Brown was taken into custody.
He was allegedly driving intoxicated with five children ranging in from ages 2 to 9.
The children were turned over to family.
During the inventory of the vehicle a loaded handgun was located along with powder cocaine, over 82 grams of marijuana, numerous Alprazolam pills, a digital scale and empty glassine baggies.
He is facing a litany of felony charges including Criminal Possession of a Weapon and Aggravated Driving While Intoxicated under Leandra Law.

Orleans County man arrested for threatening to shoot someone in Batavia
30 year old Derek Dingman of Route 231 in Albion was arrested following an alleged incident on Prospect Ave in Batavia last Friday.
Police were alerted of a disturbance in which Dingman allegedly threatened to shoot another person.
He was charged with second degree Harassment and remanded to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $1,000 bail.

Conversion therapy is now illegal in Erie County.
The practice aims to change the sexual orientation or gender identity of someone under the age of 18.
County Executive Mark Poloncarz signed a law yesterday banning the therapy.
Officials say the law will ensure the physical and mental well-being of minors.

Several bills are under consideration in the New York Senate that aim to keep students safe.
Lawmakers are looking to increase schools’ ability to hire security, invest in infrastructure to improve school safety, and strengthen penalties for crimes committed on school grounds.
Other bills that have been introduced would increase access to school-based mental health services and expand actions and intelligence coordination to help protect schools against attacks.
As current bills are being sent to the Assembly, additional safety measure could be unveiled next week during the conference’s Security Agenda.

Press Release:

On March 10th at 10:30 am the sixth ward and first ward will have a neighborhood meeting open to the public for any concerns. City reps and Council will be there. Please join us. Rose Mary Christian 6th Ward council person.

30 year old Derek Dingman of Route 231 in Albion was arrested following an alleged incident on Prospect Ave in Batavia last Friday.

Police were alerted of a disturbance in which Dingman allegedly threatened to shoot another person.

He was charged with second degree Harassment and remanded to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $1,000 bail.

He is expected in Batavia City Court this afternoon.

47 year old Twan Conway of Batavia was accused of entering a Walden Creek Drive address in Batavia at the end of last month violating a court order of protection.

Conway was allegedly told to stay away and leave before being arrested and charged with Criminal Trespassing, Criminal Contempt and with an Aggravated Family Offense.

He was committed without bail to the Genesee County Jail and is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court on Thursday.

18 year old Baily Burns of Goade Park in Batavia was accused of driving a black sedan on Jackson Street in the city that had no insurance or registration plates along with being uninspected.

Batavia Police allegedly discovered an amount of marijuana in the vehicle that Burns was operating.

Burns was arrested and charged with Operating a Motor Vehicle without Insurance, Uninspected Motor Vehicle, No Registration Plates Displayed and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana.

Bailey was released with appearance tickets for March 20th in Batavia City Court.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) poses with Carl Gouveia, Director of the Seymour Public Library, and his family in the Assembly Chamber

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) met with several representatives of prominent local libraries who visited the Assembly Chamber in Albany recently. Hawley thanked them for their community support and work to sustain such great educational resources, and for sponsoring many public programs in Western New York.

Hawley poses with representatives from the Monroe County Library system in his Albany Office

“Libraries are such an integral party of communities across New York State, and it is saddening to hear that some state leaders propose to cut library aid in our budget,” Hawley said. “Many times, these dedicated men and women volunteer long hours to see that that our local students and children have access to books, research materials, broadband internet and helpful community programs. That is why I spearheaded a letter with nearly 40 lawmakers from both sides of the aisle asking Assembly Speaker Heastie to restore full library aid in this year’s budget.”

Press Release:

WHO: Ascension Parish

WHAT: Saint Joseph Day Table

WHEN: Sunday, March 18th, 2018 @ 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: Slomba Hall, 15 Sumner Street, Batavia, New York 14020

WHY: To provide funding for the ministries and outreach of Ascension Parish.

EVENT DESCRIPTION: A traditional Italian Buffet offered by DFC Catering of Batavia, NY. A seven course meal will be served family style to include: antipasti, bread, fish, greens and beans, smelt, pasta con sarde along with a cash bar and wine available for your table. A childrens menu will include mac and cheese, pizza and finger foods.

COST: $20.00 DONATION/Per Person $5.00 Children ages 2-8!

HOW TO OBTAIN TICKETS: Call the Parish Office at 585-343-1796 to Reserve your table, families and businesses welcome. You may also Pre-pay and buy your tickets online at: www.ascensionrcc.weshareonline.org. Please note: There is a service fee for this option! Tickets are Pre-Sale only. Day of Sales available at the door this year!

Cash or Check ONLY.

Make Checks Payable to: Ascension Parish $20.00/pp Adults $5.00/pp kids

U.S. Air Force Airman Haley L. Fletcher

Press Release:

U.S. Air Force Airman Haley L. Fletcher graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Fletcher is the daughter of Jamison and Suzanne Fletcher of Alexander, N.Y. She is also the sister of Courtney Fletcher.

The airman is a 2017 graduate of Alexander Central School, Alexander, N.Y.

Press Release:

Pete and Kristy Broughton are generous neighbors in Wyoming County. Their home and business Broughton Diversified Farming, are located in Silver Springs. Pete and Kristy give of their time and talents in many leadership roles. They can also be depended upon when disaster strikes in their neighborhood to lend a helping hand. On Saturday, March 3rd, at the Wyoming County Pride of Agriculture Dinner at the North Java Fire Hall, they were named the 2018 Wyoming County Pride of Agriculture Good Neighbors.

Pete’s present leadership roles include President of the Letchworth Central School Board, Open Class Superintendent of the Livestock Show at the Wyoming County Fair and a member of the 4-H Livestock Committee. Kristy is a member of the Wyoming County 4-H Program and Dairy Committees and Leader of the Showin’ and Growin’ 4-H Club. Pete is a former President of Wyoming County Farm Bureau. He has served in a leadership capacity with beef organizations across New York.

Their farming enterprise includes custom heifer raising, field crops, custom field operations and Hubner seed sales. They are a respected local employer. On numerous occasions, Pete has lent a helping hand by moving livestock, sharing equipment or just getting a crop in for someone in need. The Broughton’s willingly reach out when neighbors are in need.

Their work with youth extends to countywide activities. Pete is always on hand helping to keep the 4-H Livestock Sale moving smoothly and sorting and loading animals following the sale. Kristy is often observed helping a youngster with an animal of one sort or another. They support the activities of FFA at Letchworth too.

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Wyoming County and Wyoming County Farm Bureau are proud to honor Pete and Kristy Broughton as Wyoming County’s 2018 Pride of Agriculture Good Neighbors.

Press Release:

2018 Wyoming County Friends of Agriculture were announced at Pride of Agriculture Good Neighbor Dinner on Saturday, March 2 at the North Java Fire Hall. Will and Louise Herrick were honored for their commitment to helping youth explore opportunities for the future in agriculture.

The Herricks were celebrated for their tireless support of the Wyoming County 4-H, Junior Holstein Club and Dairy Princess activities. They have coached teams for Dairy Bowl contests for both 4-H and Junior Holstein. As leaders of the Barnstormers 4-H Club, they actively seek opportunities for youth to learn about agriculture as a career path. They have energetically supported the Dairy Princess Program for several years. Louise serves on the 4-H Home Economics Committee.

Will serves his community as a Councilman for the Town of Eagle. He has also been on the Town Zoning Board. Louise is a Trustee for the Bliss Library and involved in supporting the National Honor Society at Pioneer Central School. Their whole family is actively involved many aspects of their local church community.

If the Herricks aren’t hosting a youth practice activity at their home, they are providing or organizing rides for children in their community to participate in contests to grow their knowledge and instill passion for agriculture. Will and Louise are serious about showing young people the opportunities in agriculture that abound in Wyoming County.

Thank you Louise and Will for your dedicated support of agriculture and the efforts you make to develop future leaders for agriculture in our community. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Wyoming County and Wyoming County Farm Bureau congratulate you for your knowledge, generosity and forward thinking approach to leadership in agriculture, your local community and Wyoming County.

Breaking Down Batavia’s Police Blotter.
Alleged incident involving a child lands a Milton Street man in lock up.
22 year old Juaquin Davis of Milton Street in Batavia is accused of punching and choking a female acquaintance while she as holding a child during a reported domestic incident last month.
Davis was arrested and charged with Harassment, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing and Endangering the Welfare of a Child following the alleged incident on Center Street in the city.
He was committed to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $2,500.

Students get an earful of obscenities as a Batavia man is arrested for Middle School incident.
34 year old Eric McGill of Lewis Place in Batavia was arrested for alleged concerning behavior following investigation into an incident at the Batavia Middle School last month.
He was charged with two counts of disorderly conduct for his bad behavior and for allegedly cursing loudly in front of the middle school students.
McGill was released with an appearance ticket returnable to Batavia City Court on March 28th.

Beer bandit finds himself behind bars.
34 year old Matthew Zane of Park Road Batavia was arrested and charged with Trespassing and Petit Larceny following report of a larceny at the Speedway on West Main Street.
City Police were called to respond early Sunday morning for report of a man who had just stolen beer.
Zane was previously removed from the property and barred from returning.
He was ordered to be held in the Genesee County Jail to await arraignment.

Buffalo Bills legend Jim Kelly says cancer isn’t going to slow him down.
This weekend the hall of fame quarterback was honored in Milwaukee with the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation award of excellence.
This comes just days after he announced that his cancer was back yet again.
Kelly said he’s going to have surgery at the end of the month but planned on fishing this weekend in Miami with a cold one in his hand.

Congratulations to the Elba Lancers Girls team on another championship.
‪‪The girls from Elba emerged victorious in a tough back and forth matchup against Andover.
WBTA’s John Vazquez covered the championship match live from Cal-Mum…

The final score was 47 to 42.
The game can be heard on demand on our website at WBTAi.com.

Sabres star Jack Eichel’s ankle is getting better.
The forward was injured last month while playing, and beating, the Bruins.
Yesterday head coach Phil Housley said this weekend Eichel was able to start skating again.
He said progress is being made and Eichel wants to play before the season ends. No timeline or schedule was put on his recovery.

Congressman calls 1366 technologies into question.
Spokesperson for 1366 Laureen Sanderson told our news partner The Batavian the company has decided to build their first full scale factory aboard following the much lauded construction of a solar wafer production plant in Genesee County as their first full scale factory site.
The company said delays and uncertainty around a loan guarantee from the Department of Energy spurred the decision to go overseas.
After blame was apparently cast on the DOE under the new president Congressman Chris Collins defended the Trump Administration questioning whether 1366 was ever really serious about staying with the STAMP Park site.
Collins said it seems like 1366 was spending the last six and a half years playing the field to see if they could get a better deal elsewhere.
The GCEDC which helped secure 1366 as a tenant said, regardless of the recent news they will continue with infrastructure investments to prepare the site for development.

Maple Street man jailed for prison contraband.
23 year old Jason Perry of Batavia was accused of introducing contraband into a secure portion of the Genesee County Jail.
Perry was arrested and charged with Promoting Prison Contraband in the first degree.
He was remanded to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $10,000 bail.

Two busted for Bail Jumping in Batavia.
54 year old Scott Spencer of Rochester was wanted for allegedly failing to appear in Genesee County Court on a Felony charge last November.
He was arrested by Monroe County Probation and turned over to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.
Spencer was ordered to be held pending his arraignment.
48 year old Dawn Gates of South Glenns Falls was also arrested for Bail Jumping after she allegedly failed to appear on a felony criminal matter from January of last year.
Gates turned herself into the Pembroke Court where she was arraigned and remanded to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $2,000 bail.

Hawley blasts bill targeting Veterans Medical Leave.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley voted against legislation this week that would reduce the number of days veterans would be able to take for medical leave related to their combat duties.
The bill was introduced by Westchester County Democrat Amy Paulin, and would reduce the amount of medical leave days provided from eight down to five.
Hawley a staunch proponent of protecting our state’s veterans said in a statement “We should be doing everything in our power to protect and care for our servicemen and servicewomen at home and abroad, and this is a terrible display of gratitude.”

Congratulations to the Elba Lancers Girls team on another championship.
‪‪In a tough back and forth matchup against Andover, the girls from Elba pulled out ahead with a final score of 47 to 42.
They become the Section V Class D2 Champions for the second-straight year in a row.

Press Release:

Wyoming County, N.Y. – U.S. Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) has once again earned the support of the Wyoming County Republican Committee. The Committee voted to endorse Congressman Collins during their meeting on Thursday in Warsaw.

“I am honored to have once again earned the support of the Wyoming County Republican Committee,” said Congressman Chris Collins. “These men and women have worked tirelessly to ensure we have a representative in Washington who will help grow our region’s agriculture industry, fight to protect our dairy farms, and expand broadband access throughout our rural communities. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made on these important issues together and I look forward to bringing more results back to Wyoming County in the years to come.”

GCC’s first 2018 softball all-skills clinic recently concluded at the Richard C. Call Arena as participants gather for a group photo

Press Release:

GCC Softball Begins First of Several Community Clinics at Richard C. Call Arena

The Genesee Community College softball program recently held its first four-week all-skills clinic in the new state-of-the-art GCC Richard C. Call Arena located on the Batavia campus of GCC.

The clinic was well attended with 40-plus registrants and was open to girls of all skill levels ranging in ages from 8-16 years old.

Matt Landers and Stan Kaus of Batavia Girls Fastpitch Softball were prominent in the success of this initial clinic in many capacities that also included gathering participation from more than a half-dozen local school districts that included Pembroke, Albion, Alexander, Batavia, Oakfield, Elba, and Chili.

The clinic was held weekly on Sundays during the entire month of February and was instructed by GCC softball coaches and players and led by GCC head softball coach Taylor Maurer and assistant coach Kenneth Maurer.

The players included incoming 2018 prospects, former players, and last year’s National Junior College Athletic Association Region III Player of the Year, Mackenzie Weber.

“It was a great opportunity for our players to serve as role models and coach drills they are used to performing,” the GCC head softball coach said.

“The participants were exposed to topics such as hitting, pitching, defensive plays, throwing and catching, as well as improving their knowledge of the game, “ Maurer added in describing a comprehensive overview of information and skills.

“With early softball revolving around weather at this time of year practices must be held indoors. There aren’t many places locally that offer the kind of space the Richard C. Call Arena offers. It is great to see the younger generation take advantage of such an amazing venue. From utilizing the college’s new, high-end athletic facilities-to-working with coaches and players, it’s our hope that everyone left having a positive experience. We will most definitely be hosting another clinic this summer.”

2017-18 GCC Men’s Basketball Team

NJCAA Region-III Releases Men’s Basketball’s Division-II Playoff Brackets

Monroe Community College will host the Region III-DivisionII/NJCAA District II Men’s Basketball Tournament March 9-11.  The Tribunes earned the right to host the tournament as the top seed in the tournament after finishing the regular season with a 22-5 overall record including a 13-2 record against divisional foes in Region III.  Erie Community College will enter the tournament as the second seed (16-9, 10-5) and earns a bye along with MCC to the tournament semifinal round.

Two quarterfinal matchups are set for Friday, March 9th. Third-seeded Genesee Community College will take on Mercyhurst University – North East at 5:30 p.m. in the first game while Niagara County Community College enters as the fourth seed and will take on the Community College of Rhode Island at 7:30 p.m.

Genesee swept the regular season series with Mercyhurst NE as the Cougars most recently defeated the Saints 109-94 in the teams’ regular season finale.  Niagara CCC will take on CCRI for the second time this season in their quarterfinal matchup.  The two teams faced off in the Genesee CC Holiday Classic in mid-December when Niagara emerged the victor 86-65.

Monroe CC will face off against the winner of the Niagara/Rhode Island matchup on Saturday at 4:00 p.m. while Erie awaits either Genesee CC or Mercyhurst NE in the second semifinal scheduled to tip off at 6:00 p.m.

Mark Jagord

GCC Sports Information

A photo depicting the current bill up for debate and vote that hangs on either side of the Assembly Chamber in Albany.

Press Release:

This week in Albany, Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) voted against legislation that would reduce the number of days veterans would be able to take for medical leave related to their combat duties. Gov. Cuomo signed the bill last year allowing eight days of leave in exchange for Assembly Democrats amending the law to reduce the number of days to five this year.

“These are the kinds of political games Albany politicians and the governor play with people’s livelihood,” Hawley said. “While Assembly leadership had a chance to stand strong for our veterans against the governor’s desires to cut paid leave, they capitulated per their pre-arranged backroom deal.”

The bill was introduced by Westchester County Democrat Amy Paulin, and would reduce the amount of medical leave days provided from eight down to five.

“This was a shameful day in Albany as downstate politicians introduced a bill that reduced the number of medical leave days our veterans can take to receive treatment related to their combat duties,” Hawley said. “We should be doing everything in our power to protect and care for our servicemen and servicewomen at home and abroad, and this is a terrible display of gratitude. I voted no on this bill and will continue to stand up for our armed forces to see they receive the time for treatment they greatly deserve.”

Hawley, a veteran of the Ohio Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserves, is a staunch proponent of protecting our state’s veterans and serves on the Assembly’s Veterans’ Affairs Committee. Hawley hosts the Patriot Trip each year, traveling to Washington D.C. with local veterans and their families to visit our nation’s sites and memorials.

13-66 technologies has confirmed that the company will not continue pursuing a solar wafer production plant in Genesee County as their first full scale factory site.
Spokesperson for 1366 Laureen Sanderson told our news partner The Batavian The company has decided to build the first full scale factory aboard.
The Masschuchett’s-based company said it made its decision based on delays and uncertainty around a loan guarantee from the Department of Energy.
Following the initial reports of the decision yesterday, Congressman Chris Collins responded by defending the Trump Administration and questioning whether 1366 was ever really serious about staying with the STAMP Park site.
Collins said it seems like 1366 was spending the last six and a half years playing the field to see if they could get a better deal elsewhere.
The company spokesperson claimed they are still interested in manufacturing in the U.S. and the GCEDC will be the first call they make.
The GCEDC which helped secure 1366 as a tenant said, regardless of the recent news they will continue with infrastructure investments to prepare the site for development.

Batavia man busted for DWI as deputies follow a female driver who fled an accident.
35 year old Robert Campbell of College View Drive in Batavia was arrested and charged with Aggravated DWI and Unlicensed Operation following investigation into a property damage accident in which the female operator had fled the scene.
Campbell was accused of being intoxicated while operating a vehicle at the female suspect’s residence.
He was released with appearance tickets for March 29th in Batavia Town Court.

Two year old incident leads to a Liberty Street woman’s arrest.
41 year old Shannon Klinkbeil-Hayday was accused of assuming someone else’s identity with the intent to defraud them and of stealing more than one thousand dollars’ worth of property.
Klinkbeil-Hayday was arrested and charged with Identity Theft and Grand Larceny following investigation into the alleged incident that occurred in November of 2016.
She was released under supervision of Genesee Justice and is expected back in Bethany Town Court on March 20th.

Jury deliberations continue in the New York corruption trial of a former aide to Governor Cuomo. Before the jury got the case Thursday, prosecutors argued that Joseph Percoco used his position to shake down several businesses that wanted to do jobs with New York. His lawyer claims there’s no legal basis to convict Percoco, who declined to testify during the trial. Cuomo, meanwhile, has not been accused of any wrongdoing.

Press Release:

LIVINGSTON COUNTY: Livingston County Sheriff Thomas J. Dougherty advises that Livingston County is no longer under the “No Unnecessary Travel” advisory.

The travel conditions have improved on our primary roads within the county. However, you may encounter some hazardous conditions on our secondary roads. The Highway Departments are still out working diligently to further improve conditions throughout the county.

We are still under a Travel Advisory as you may encounter hazardous conditions. If you must drive, please plan ahead, provide yourself with extra time, and drive safely.

Thank you for your partnership in public safety!

Press Release:

BATAVIA, NY – “We are obviously very disappointed by the news from 1366 Technologies, but understand the business decision.

“Regardless, we will continue with infrastructure investments to prepare the site for development. This infrastructure work is the result of the financial support of New York State and I think it is important to note that no taxpayer dollars have ever been allocated to 1366 Technologies.

“We remain extremely excited and committed to STAMP because there is a long pipeline of leads and great interest in the site by various advanced manufacturing businesses.

“We also have a number of partners in the public and private sector who I know remain committed to STAMP. This collaboration is critically important in our efforts, especially as we combine the resources of our economic development partners to market the significant attributes of the Buffalo and Rochester metropolitan areas as one region.

“So, for the GCEDC it is business as usual in our ongoing efforts to get STAMP shovel ready and continuing to market the site to these businesses.”

The anchor tenant for the STAMP park project planned in Alabama has pulled out of the deal to house a major manufacturing facility in the region with intentions of taking operations overseas.

A representative from 13-66 technologies spoke with our news partner The Batavian, confirming that the company would not continue pursuing building their first full-scale solar wafer production plant in Genesee County.

The Masschuchett’s-based company made its decision based on delays and uncertainty around a loan guarantee from the Department of Energy.

Spokesperson for 13-66 Laureen Sanderson told The Batavian The company has decided to build the first full scale factory aboard.

Sanderson said that doesn’t mean the second can’t be here in the U.S. and as those pieces come into place, the GCEDC will be the first call they make.

The heavily anticipated economic impact from the company was lauded by local development agencies and Governor Cuomo’s Administration as a big win for Western New York.

The GCEDC which helped secure 13-66 as a tenant said, regardless of the recent news they will continue with infrastructure investments to prepare the site for development.

For more on the story check the article by our news partner The Batavian.

The Travel Advisory for Genesee County has been lifted

The advisory for no unnecessary travel was lifted at around 10 this morning.

Route 63 in Pavilion which was shut down this morning due to the weather has been reopened.

U.S. Air Force Airman Jonathan G. Rice

Press Release:

U.S. Air Force Airman Jonathan G. Rice graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.
The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.
Airmen who complete basic training also earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.
Rice is a 2017 graduate of Clarence High School, Clarence, N.Y.

Press Release:

Troop T advises motorists on the New York State Thruway to use caution when traveling during winter weather conditions.

Use your best judgment to determine if driving is prudent and allow for adjustments to your schedule to ensure a safe commute or simply avoid unnecessary travel.

****Allowing Some Space*****

Use the “two second rule” Choose an object near or above the road ahead. As the vehicle ahead passes it, count aloud, slowly, “one thousand one, one thousand two.” If you reach the object before you finish counting, you are following too closely. Allow the other vehicle to get further ahead. In bad weather, increase the count to three or four seconds for extra space

*************Keep the following tips in mind*************

• Get the latest weather forecast before leaving with your local weather apps, monitor radio or TV stations
• In WHITE OUT conditions, turn on your Hazard or 4-way lights
• Always clean your windows and mirrors FULLY of any snow and ice before driving
• Keep a full tank of gas
• Ensure your fluid levels are sufficient (windshield washer fluid and anti-freeze)
• Ensure the spare tire is sufficient and you have the jack and wheel wrench
• Use headlights at all times to increase your visibility
• Vehicles equipped with simultaneous flashers are required to use them while traveling on the Thruway at a speed under 40 miles per hour.
• Drive prudently. If the conditions are adverse you should decrease your speed accordingly
• Look down the road for potential hazardous
• Be observant
• MAINTAIN SAFE DISTANCE BETWEEN VEHICLES, DON’T TAILGATE
• DO NOT use cruise control. This decreases your reaction time to apply brakes.
• Be aware of all EMERGENCY VEHICLES: Police, Fire, Ambulances, Town Trucks, and Maintenance Vehicles
• If you do not absolutely have to go out onto the roads, then don’t

If you are involved in a collision or leave the roadway:

If you drive off the roadway and are stuck in a snow bank or ditch, stay in your vehicle and call 911. DO NOT exit your vehicle unless it is an absolute emergency. You put yourself at risk of being struck by another vehicle.

Roll the windows down a few inches or turn your vehicle off if you are stranded in snow for a period of time with your vehicle running. Covered mufflers can cause physical injury or death due to inhalation of carbon monoxide.

If you should become stranded on the Thruway, know your location by being aware of your direction and mile post marker. This will help emergency personnel reach your location as quickly as possible.

Follow the New York State Police’s Twitter page @nyspolice for up to the minute information on road closures and weather alerts.

The Thruway Authority provides a wide variety of information for travelers including current traffic conditions, accidents, and lane closures. Visit www.thruway.ny.gov for more information.

Sheriff’s issue Travel Advisories for Genesee and Livingston.
Both the Genesee and Livingston County Sheriff’s Offices, have issued travel advisories due to the poor visibility and road conditions from blowing and drifting snow.
They advise no unnecessary travel.
Roads leading north to south will be particularly difficult to drive due to the storm’s path.
The advisory is in effect until further notice.
Route 63 in Pavilion has been shut down because of the poor weather.
Click here for a complete list of closings and cancellations this morning.

Female flees accident and Batavia man busted for DWI during investigation.
35 year old Robert Campbell of College View Drive in Batavia was arrested and charged with Aggravated DWI and Unlicensed Operation following investigation into a property damage accident in which the female operator had fled the scene.
Campbell was found operating a vehicle at the suspects residence allegedly intoxicated.
He was released with appearance tickets.

Liberty Street woman arrested for Identity Theft.
41 year old Shannon Klinkbeil-Hayday was arrested and charged with Identity Theft and Grand Larceny following an investigation into an alleged incident that occurred in November of 2016.
Klinkbeil-Hayday was accused of assuming someone else’s identity with the intent to defraud and is accused of stealing more than one thousand dollars’ worth of property.
She was released under supervision of Genesee Justice and is expected back in Bethany Town Court on March 20th.

Buffalo Bills Hall of Fame Quarterback Jim Kelly has cancer again.
The former Bills all-star who led the franchise to four Super Bowls in a row announced yesterday that his cancer had returned.
In 2013 he had part of his upper jaw and several teeth removed for oral cancer and in 2014 announced that he was cancer free.
Right now it isn’t known what Kelly’s outlook is.

Joe Zambito has been named the new head football coach at Notre Dame High School. He takes over for Rick Mancuso who has retired.
Zambito has been a volunteer coach at Notre Dame for the past seven seasons following a successful run as coach at Elba.
Joe Zambito works as race secretary and track announcers at Batavia Downs.

A Winter Storm Warning that takes effect tonight shuts down Genesee Community College for tomorrow.
College officials announce this afternoon that all classes and special events at GCC’s Batavia campus scheduled for tomorrow have been cancelled.
The National Weather Service is forecasts 8 to 12 inches of over Genesee, Orleans, Niagara and Northern Erie counties.
The heaviest snow is expected late this evening through early Friday morning.
Travel will be very difficult especially during tomorrow’s morning commute.
Gusting winds will impair visibility.

One other cancellation has been received today:
The Genesee County Pamona Grange meeting scheduled for tonight in East Pembroke has been cancelled.

Jim Kelly PHOTO: Buffalo Bills

Hall of Fame Quarterback and Buffalo Bills legend Jim Kelly is again fighting cancer. After first being diagnosed with oral-cancer in 2013, the 58-year-old Kelly has endured several battles with the disease. The Bills issued a statement calling Kelly tough and courageous, asking fans to pray for their long-time signal caller. Kelly said he will continue to focus on faith, family, friends and fans in a statement of his own.

Joe Zambito has been named the new head football coach at Notre Dame High School. He takes over for Rick Mancuso who has retired.
Zambito has been a volunteer coach at Notre Dame for the past seven seasons following a successful run as coach at Elba.
Joe Zambito works as race secretary and track announcers at Batavia Downs.

Dr. Michael Eula Genesee County Historian

Genesee County’s historian is looking for the Melton shirt off your back!
Historian Michael Eula is working with an engineer and clothing entrepreneur who wants to bring the old Melton Shirt Factory in Batavia back to life as a museum.
Eula said the museum would focus on the work of Polish and Italian immigrants who made up most of the Liberty Street factory’s workforce

You can call the history department at 815-79-04. A meeting has been set for 2pm on March 6th at the Liberty Street site.

Hall of Fame Quarterback and Buffalo Bills legend Jim Kelly is again fighting cancer. After first being diagnosed with oral-cancer in 2013, the 58-year-old Kelly has endured several battles with the disease. The Bills issued a statement calling Kelly tough and courageous, asking fans to pray for their long-time signal caller. Kelly said he will continue to focus on faith, family, friends and fans in a statement of his own. He was enshrined in Canton in 2002, and after playing college football at the University of Miami also played for the USFL’s Houston Gamblers before joining Buffalo.

A Winter Storm Warning that takes effect tonight shuts down Genesee Community College for tomorrow.
College officials announce this afternoon that all classes and special events at GCC’s Batavia campus scheduled for tomorrow have been cancelled.
The National Weather Service is forecasts 8 to 12 inches of over Genesee, Orleans, Niagara and Northern Erie counties.
The heaviest snow is expected late this evening through early Friday morning.
Travel will be very difficult especially during tomorrow’s morning commute.
Gusting winds will impair visibility.

Press Release:

The following is the list of City of Batavia Plumbers who have obtained their 2018 Plumbing Renewal License to do plumbing in the City of Batavia, NY.

Arthur Allen
2927 Main St.
Leicester, NY 14481

Richard Biegasiewicz
2 Burke Dr.
Batavia, NY 14020
344-0051

Jason Brownlie
100 Nassau St.
Rochester, NY 14605
325-1290

Anthony Cellino
631 Bullis Rd.
Elma, NY 14059
716-683-5874

Henry H. Cook, Inc.
3508 Rose Rd.
Batavia, NY 14020
345-0915 or 762-8064

Christopher Cook
3508 Rose Rd.
Batavia, NY 14020
345-0915 or 762-8064

James J. DeWald
JW Danforth
300 Colvin Woods Pkwy.
Tonawanda, NY 14150
(716) 832-1940

Diegelman Plumbing LLC
4995 Ellicott St.
Batavia, New York 14020
356-3438

Michael Dollendorf
140 Cooper Ave.
Tonawanda, NY 44150
(716) 873-5000

James Ficarella
19 Warren St.
Batavia, NY 14020
409-5256

Timothy Fortin
JW Danforth
300 Colvin Woods Pkwy.
Tonawanda, NY 14150
(716) 832-1940

Joseph Grasso
2690 Wilson-Cambria Rd
Wilson, NY 14172

Ricky Hale
28 Swan St.
Batavia, NY 14020
343-3805

Warren Herdic
5769 Herman Hill Rd.
Hamburg, NY 14075
716-913-5721

Matthew Kandefer
2215 Broadway
Buffalo, NY 14212
716-893-8376

Richard Lovria
150 Ross St.
Batavia, NY 14020
343-4852

Michael Mager
8939 Alexander Rd.
Batavia, NY 14020
343-2678

Robert Marvin
Tradestar Mechanical
764Flower City Pk.
Rochester, NY 14615

Carl McQuillen
8171 E. Main Rd.
LeRoy, NY 14482
768-2322

Philip Martorana
64 Hickory Hill Rd.
Williamsville, NY 14221
716-688-1456

Fredrick Mruczek
1 Valle Dr.
Batavia, New York

Thomas Mruczek
3 Valle Dr.
Batavia, New York

Dave Muskopf
3198 Union Rd.
Orchard Park, NY 14227
716-681-6997

Mark Napoleon
44 Morrow Ave.
Batavia, NY 14020
409-9961

William Penepent
7182 Kenyon Ave.
Basom, NY 14013
762-8687

David Pero
Charles R. Pero & Sons
121 Trumbull Pkwy.
Batavia, NY 14020
343-7011

John Pestillo
8486 Seven Springs Rd.
Batavia, NY 14020

Erich K. Postler
615 South Ave.
Rochester, NY 14620
546-7450

Alfred Rosemark
27 West Ave.
Elba, NY 14058
757-9291

Gabriel Sepi, Jr.
25 Ganson Ave.
Batavia, NY 14020

Walter Szczesny
24 Wood St.
Batavia, NY 14020
345-1697

Mark Taylor
8734 Stahley Rd.
East Amherst, NY 14051
716-913-2023

Larry W. Toal
3670 South Main St. Rd.
Batavia, NY 14020
344-3839

Ryan Toal
3670 South Main St. Rd.
Batavia, NY 14020
344-3839

Joel Tucciarone
202 Roosevelt St.
Tonawanda, NY 14150
716-696-6122

Rahmel Thompson

Press Release:

Thompson Goes Over 1000 in Cougars Second-Consecutive Triple-Digit Win

The Genesee Community College men’s basketball team coasted to a 15-point road win over Mercyhurst North East by registering their second-consecutive 100-plus point game, 109-94, in their regular-season finale Feb. 28.

Rahmel Thompson entered the game with 990 points and his 21 against the Saints put him at 1011 for his career. Thompson joined teammate Brian Fobbs as the second Cougar to hit 1000 career points this season. Thompson, who wears jersey No. 13 is now No. 13 on the Cougars’ all-time scoring list and needs 48 points to move into the all-time top-10. Fobbs is currently No. 4 and needs 82 points to get to No. 3.

In addition to Thompson’s 21 points against Mercyhurst, three other Cougars recorded double-digit performances including Fobbs (30), Jarett Haines (26) and Brandon Peters (17).

Fobbs registered a team-high seven rebounds, just ahead of Peters’ five and Haines’ four. Thompson co-led the team with Peters in steals with three, while Peters and Haines co-led the team in assists with three.
Genesee shot 57 percent from the floor with 39 points coming from beyond the arc at a 54-percent shooting percentage.

With the game just a one-score affair with a Cougar 21-19 lead, Genesee went on a 17-2 run to go up 38-21 before taking a 52-38 first half lead. The Cougars kept a double-digit lead through the second half with a lead between 15-20 points for most of the way.

Jasmine Holmes had 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 blocks

Lady Cougars End Regular Season with Double-Digit WNYAC Win

The Genesee Community College women’s basketball team beat Mercyhurst North East 78-62 to end both the month of February and their regular season. The 16-point winning differential was the highest by the team in any Western New York Athletic Conference win this season and the 78 points were three points away from a season-high.

The contest became the lone Genesee WNYAC game where the Cougars never trailed at any point during the game. After starting with a 10-2 lead, the Cougars ended the first quarter with a 17-10 lead. Genesee nearly doubled its winning margin after the second quarter at 39-26.

The Cougars played their best overall quarter in the third by out-scoring the Saints by double digits that was fueled by a 12-0 run during the quarter.

Genesee shot 54 percent from the floor and 53 percent from beyond the arc that accounted for 30 of its 78, while recording five double-digit scorers.

Reika Murota led all Cougars in points with 22 points with 18 coming from three-land that included a 67 percent shooting percentage from beyond the arc.

Jasmine Holmes added 18 points with team-highs in rebounds with nine and blocks with four. Both Rosalyn Sealey and TaLia Burgess added a dozen points apiece with Sealey recording a team-high eight assists and Burgess hauling in seven boards.

Current Cougar Female Athlete of the Week Kierra Perl rounded out the double-digit offensive Genesee players with 10 points.

Mark Jagord
GCC Sports Information

Riley Marconi (center) became a double signee for GCC soccer and lacrosse from gates Chili

Press Release:

Marconi Becomes Double Signee for Soccer and Lacrosse

Riley Marconi became the latest Cougar to join the Genesee Community College athletic program as a double signee Feb. 26 for the women’s soccer and lacrosse teams for Cougar coach Jeff Reyngoudt, who coaches both.

Marconi plays for the Gates Chili Spartans in Section V of the New York Public High School Athletic Association for one of the largest high schools in Western New York that compete at the Class-AA level.
The senior Spartan joins both teams with the best attributes a recruit can possess that include academics, leadership and talent as she has been tabbed as an honor student, captain and most valuable with her high school team.

Marconi plans to attend GCC after high school graduation and compete for the Cougars in the fall of 2018 with the women’s soccer team at the midfielder position, and then with the women’s lacrosse team in the spring of 2019 at either the midi or attack positions.

Cougar Athletes of the Week Announced

The Genesee Community College’s athletes of the week for the period ending Feb. 24 are Kierra Perl (Attica, NY) from the women’s basketball team and Brian Fobbs (Rochester, NY) from the men’s basketball team.

Kierra Perl (far right) battles under the boards against Niagara Feb. 17

Perl just missed recording back-to-back double-doubles by a single rebound last week against No. 1-ranked Monroe Community College and Jamestown Community College, but still averaged double-double statistics in scoring 27 points to go with 20 rebounds in the pair of games. Although she led the Cougars in scoring in both games last week, her better of the two was in Jamestown with a 17-point performance that accounted for 40 percent of the Cougars’ offense.

Brian Fobbs gets one of several dunks Saturday against JCC as he moved into the eighth in all-time GCC scoring

Fobbs averaged 26 points, 10.5 rebounds, two assists and three steals in a pair of games last week while shooting 56 percent from the field as the Cougars locked up third place in the WNYAC. On the weekend game at Jamestown, Fobbs recorded a double-double 30-point performance and 13 rebounds to go with three assists and four steals. With his 30-point performance, Brian moved into sole possession of fourth-place all-time in Genesee career scoring with 1243 points.

Mark Jagord
GCC Sports Information

The Genesee Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse also known as GCASA has received a $1.9 million state grant to build a 16 bed detox unit.
The grant was provided through the New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services, Rapid Treatment Expansion Capital Funding Grant.
The detox facility would be the first for the GLOW region, something that GCASA Executive Director John Bennett said is urgently needed in the area….

The new building will be constructed on CGASA’s Main Street campus and will consist of 16 single units for patients going through drug detoxification.
Bennet hopes to open the facility by July of next year.

Plans for brewing in Batavia remain firm as Buffalo based Resurgence Brewing expands its operations in the Queen City.
Resurgence plans to build a restaurant and tavern along Ellicott Street as part of Savarino Development’s Ellicott Station project.
Sam Savarino spoke with our news partner The Batavian saying that financing for the Ellicott Station project should be completed by the end of this month and construction could begin with two months after that.
Ellicott Station is expected to include the brewery, some office space and 50 market rate apartments.

Lawmakers in Albany are struggling to find common ground on gun reform legislation.
Senate Democratic Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins says her colleagues need to work quickly to get bills passed…

Senate Democrats tried to bring a handful of bills to the New York Senate floor on Wednesday.
The legislation included a bump stock ban and more research into gun violence.
However Republicans in the GOP-led senate blocked the bills from going to the floor.
Republican leaders say they’re currently working on their own legislation to address gun violence.
The GOP says their bills will focus on beefing up school security and make it more difficult for people with mental illnesses to get firearms.

Forecasters say the area could be in for a foot of snow.
Another relatively warm week will end this evening as a Winter Storm Watch goes into effect lasting through tomorrow.
The Watch covers most of Western New York including Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties.
The National Weather Service is forecasting possible snow accumulations of 6 to 11 inches in the most persistent areas.

Buffalo based Resurgence Brewing says its expansion in the Queen City will have no impact on its plans for Batavia.
Resurgence plans to build a restaurant and tavern along Ellicott Street as part of Savarino Development’s Ellicott Station project.
San Savarino tells our news partner The Batavian today that financing for the Ellicott Station project should be completed by the end of March and construction could begin with two months after that.
Ellicott Station is expected to include the brewery, some office space and 50 market rate apartments.

The Genesee Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, GCASA, is awarded a state grant to build 16 bed detox unit.
The grant amounts to $1.9-million.
GCASA Executive Director John Bennett tells WBTA the need for such a facility is urgent

The detox unit will consist of 16 single units in a new building to be constructed on CGASA’s Main Street campus. Bennet says he hopes to have the unit operating by July of next year.

Batavia firemen quickly knock down a minor fire at Hanson Aggregates on Cedar Street late this morning.
Officials said Hanson employees were doing some work in a silo when materials onto the roof and caught fire.

Genesee County now has an estimate of the cost of a brand new jail.
Consultants tell legislators are looking at $52-million for a new lock-up and maybe more.
The estimate takes into account new state regulations and a projected increase in the county jail population.

A Winter Storm Watch goes into effect tomorrow night through Friday
The Watch extends to Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties and most all of Western New York.
The National Weather Service is forecasting possible snow accumulations of 6 to 11 inches with most falling in higher elevations.

The Genesee Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (GCASA) gets a $1.9-million state grant to build 16 bed detox unit.

GCASA Executive Director John Bennett tells WBTA the need for such a facility is urgent:

The detox unit will consist of 16 single units in a new building to be constructed on CGASA’s Main Street campus. Bennett says he hopes to have the unit operating by July of next year.

The GCASA grant was part of a $10-million award in capital funding to five providers for the development of 84 new community-based Medically Supervised Withdrawal and Stabilization Services beds throughout New York. The detox programs will provide around-the-clock care to people who are under the influence of alcohol, opioids, or other substances, or suffering from withdrawal, and help stabilize them and connect them to long-term treatment services.

“This investment for new community-based detox programs will provide the care and treatment services needed to help people suffering from alcohol and drug addiction,” said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, Co-Chair of the Heroin and Opioid Task Force. “These programs are providing resources and helping to save lives, particularly in underserved communities.”

Medically Supervised Withdrawal and Stabilization Programs offer medical assessment, information about recovery support, family treatment, clinical services, and medication to manage withdrawal symptoms. This expansion of services is part of the Governor’s continued multi-pronged approach to address the opioid epidemic by providing comprehensive prevention, treatment, and recovery services.

Fire crews in Batavia were called to a report of a structure fire at the Hanson Aggregates building off of Cedar Street and Ellicott Street Road at around 11:30 this morning.

Apparently workers at the sand and gravel supplier were doing work on the silo when some materials fell onto the roof and caught fire.

The workers thought they had put the fire out before it reignited.

City fire crews quickly extinguished what was left of the fire.

Press Release:

Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer (R-C-I, Amherst) has introduced legislation (S7815) today in the State Senate to expand New York’s Child and Dependent Tax Credit by doubling the current cap on child care expenses across the board.

“Child care costs continue to rise for parents. These high costs are a major burden for families, even among households with both parents working. This legislation would make it a little easier for hard-working parents by doubling the child tax credit. This new proposal makes it more affordable to raise a family in New York State,” said Ranzenhofer.

The proposed expanded tax credit is estimated to provide $225 million in new relief for middle-class families. Most families are estimated to receive a new average credit of $750, an increase of $375 from last year.

Under existing law, taxpayers are eligible to claim the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit to help offset the costs of caring for a child under the age of 13, a disabled spouse or a disabled dependent. The expense amount allowed toward the credit is limited at various levels depending on the number of children.

If enacted, taxpayers would be able to take advantage of the increased limits starting in 2019.