Local News

Cassandra Elmore

31-year-old Cassandra Elmore of Batavia has been arrested on two bench warrants. The first was in connection with her failure to appear in court following arrest for several charges, including criminal possession of a weapon. The second was in reference to obstructing governmental administration. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court, is being held at the Genesee County Jail and is scheduled to return to court on March 2nd.

35-year-old Cordero Royes of Batavia is charged with criminal contempt and burglary after he was found in a local residence allegedly in violation of a stay-away order of protection. Royes was arraigned in Batavia City Court and remanded to Genesee County Jail. He will return to court at a later date.  ALSO: A 16-year-old female from Albion was arrested in Batavia for harassment. Investigation revealed there was a physical dispute between two juveniles on Cherry Street. She was issued an appearance ticket for a later court date and released.

Two men have been arrested following an interrupted robbery. 22-year-old Ryder Berry of Java and 28-year-old Brandon Brooks of Gowanda were charged after being caught attempting to burglarize a home in Java. When police arrived at the scene, the suspects fled on foot but troopers were eventually able to locate them; when caught, Berry started to act unruly and injured one of the officers. Both Berry and Brooks were arraigned in the town of Warsaw and remanded to Wyoming County Jail. They’ll both return to court tomorrow.

Kevin Richardson of Perry has been arrested and charged with falsifying business records at a retail store on Veteran’s Memorial Drive. In addition, he attempted to purchase a firearm at a time when he was ineligible to do so. Richardson was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to return to Town of Batavia Court on March 2nd.

James Monroe High School – file photo

The Rochester City School District has released a statement after a student was caught bringing a gun into a building. The weapon was found yesterday in the backpack of a 17-year-old student at James Monroe High School. The district says the loaded weapon was discovered during entry screening and there was never a threat to the safety of fellow students or staff. The teen was arrested and his case will be handled by family court.

Rescue and recovery at Niagara Falls, photo provided by Buffalo Police Department

New York State Parks Police is still investigating a tragic incident that happened at Niagara Falls State Park. They say fire department crews responded to the area of Terrapin Point around 1 p.m. and were advised that two people climbed over a railing and fell from the edge; it was a woman and her five-year-old son who fell about 90 feet into a gorge and struck ice that had formed at the bottom of it. The child was rescued and airlifted to Oishei Children’s Hospital for treatment of a head injury. Police later recovered the woman’s body and she was pronounced dead. Officials don’t believe she and the child ended up in the gorge accidentally.

Hallway in the Orleans Correctional Facility – file photo

A 45-year-old inmate at the Orleans Correctional Facility, who was already being housed in the Residential Rehabilitation Unit (RRU), sucker-punched an officer in the face as the inmate was being escorted to the visit room at the facility on Saturday. The inmate was being processed in the visit room when he struck the escorting officer in the face during an unprovoked attack. Two nearby officers immediately responded as the inmate continued to be combative with staff. Eventually officers were able to gain control of the inmate’s arms and placed him in wrist restraints, after which the inmate became compliant. The initial officer in the attack sustained swelling and bruising to his face and jaw, pain in his shoulder and potential inner ear damage. One of the other officers noted shoulder and wrist pain; both were transported to the hospital for further evaluation. Orleans Correctional is considered a medium security facility.

Governor Hochul in Rochester, February 13, 2023

Governor Hochul has revealed what her proposed 2024 budget would mean for the Finger Lakes if it is passed by the state Legislature. During a visit to Rochester yesterday, the governor said over two-billion-dollars in school aid would be given to the region. There would also be 15-million-dollars set aside to upgrade parks and 96-million-dollars would go towards transportation projects. Lawmakers have until April 1st to approve the budget on time.

The latest New York State Flu Tracker data shows Monroe County is still leading the area in flu cases. There were 30 cases of the virus reported during the week ending February 4th; Erie County had 27 new cases; Niagara County had 9; Chautauqua County had 4. Cayuga County had 3 and Ontario County had just 2. While the spread of the flu is declining statewide, people who aren’t vaccinated against the virus yet are still urged to get their flu shot.

Joseph Gramaglia, Buffalo Police Department Commissioner

The commissioner of the Buffalo Police Department says there are no plans to shut down a business where a triple-shooting happened over the weekend. Joseph Gramaglia said yesterday his agency will work with the owner of Club Marcella to increase safety there. A 21-year-old man passed away after being hit by gunfire on Sunday, but the other two victims survived. Gramaglia says the shooting was a targeted attack and that progress is being made towards tracking down a suspect.

New Yorkers who haven’t changed their political party affiliation ahead of the upcoming June primary are nearly out of time to do so. That’s because they have until the end of today to submit the necessary paperwork to their local Board of Elections office. The deadline to file through the Department of Motor Vehicles was yesterday, meaning that all documents must now be handed over in-person. This year’s primary is June 27th.

Peyton Krebs – file photo

The losing streak of the Buffalo Sabres has now hit four games after the team suffers another defeat on the road. Peyton Krebs and Dylan Cozens had goals for the Sabres as their team fell to the Los Angeles Kings by a final score of five-to-two at Crypto.com Arena last night. Buffalo goaltender Craig Anderson struggled and was only able to stop 23 of the 28 shots that he faced. The next game for the Sabres is tomorrow night against the Anaheim Ducks.

The viewership numbers for this year’s Super Bowl are huge. FOX Sports reports 113-million people watched the Kansas City Chiefs beat the Philadelphia Eagles in Arizona on Sunday, making it the most-watched Super Bowl in six years.

I don’t know who won but I’m pretty sure we’re related somehow…

The winner of the largest Powerball jackpot in history is finally coming forward. The California Lottery plans to reveal the winner at 10:30am Pacific Time. The winning ticket worth just over $2,000,000,000 (billion) was sold last November in suburban Los Angeles.

Parker

Staff at the Seneca Park Zoo are mourning the death of a six-year-old giraffe named Parker following what’s being called a tragic accident. The animal was found on Sunday trapped in support structure for the giraffe enclosure gate. Veterinarians tried to his life but unfortunately weren’t able to. There have been no other incidents at zoos across the country that have similar gate structures. The Seneca Park Zoo is going to modify its enclosure gate structure to prevent something like this from happening again.

A police chase in Rochester ended Monday afternoon when an SUV crashed into a church on the city’s west side.  Officers were working on an investigation near Dewey and Glenwood avenues around 3:30 p.m. when they heard gunshots coming from one block away.  Police said members of the Rochester Police Department, the U.S.  Marshals Service and New York State Police spotted an SUV and tried to pull it over, but the driver led them on a chase.  Police said the 37-year-old suspect crashed the car into Lake Avenue Baptist Church on Jones Avenue and fled briefly before he was arrested.

Tragedy at Niagara Falls as a mother leaps to her death with her child in tow.  New York State Park Police and the Niagara Falls Fire Department responded to an incident at the Niagara Gorge Monday afternoon.  A spokesperson for the fire department said crews responded to the area of Terrapin Point around 1 p.m. and were advised that two people climbed over a railing and fell from the edge. A woman and her five-year-old child were found around 70 yards from the top. The  child was rescued and transported to the hospital. Lifesaving measures were performed on the woman, but she was pronounced dead. She was recovered by the NYSP aviation unit.  New York State Park Police said the investigation is ongoing but it is not believed it was an accident.Help is always available. If you or someone you know needs someone to talk to you can contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is putting out a reminder that, although lighting kits are available for vehicles, many do not comply with Vehicle and Traffic Laws.  They remind vehicle owners of the laws about how lights are used on vehicles.  Headlamps must be of equal power and white in color, light bars are not permitted on public highways.  Tail Lamps must be of equal power and red to amber in color.  Turn signals have to be red or amber in the back and amber in the front.  The License plate light must be white.  The back up lights have to be white.  Blue and Green lights are only for emergency vehicles.  Any violations will be subject to fines. 

Students at St. John Fisher University are getting ready to dance the night away.  The school hosted a ‘Very Beary Brunch’ Monday, ahead of the 41st annual Teddi Dance for Love.  The 24-hour dance marathon benefiting Camp Good Days & Special Times is set to begin Friday at 8 p.m.  The event is one of St. John Fisher’s most time-honored traditions.  Organizers hope to raise $130,000, which would top last year’s total of $127,000.

The Seneca Park Zoo announced Monday that Parker, the zoo’s 6-year-old male Masai giraffe, has died.  Medical staff found him unresponsive Sunday morning, caught in a support structure for the giraffe enclosure gate.  Parker came to the zoo in 2018 and was paired with females Kipenzi and Iggy. He was the father to Olmstead, who was born last April.  Zoo superintendent Steve Lacy says that this was a completely unforeseen and unprecedented event.  The zoo said no similar incidents have been reported at other zoos with similar gates. The zoo is working to fix the enclosure gate structure to prevent such an incident from happening again.

The  2022-2023  Richmond Memorial Library “History by the Hearth” Lecture series continues on Thursday, February 16th at 7:00 pm in the Reading Room with a presentation on “The President’s Lady, Martha Dandridge Custis Washington.”  This lecture in the series is a Presidents Day collaboration between the Richmond Memorial Library and the Anna Ingasbe Lovell Chapter NSDAR.   Special Collections Librarian, Deborah Wood will be presenting on the life of this fascinating first “First Lady” of the United States of America.

Jason Anderson

41-year-old Jason Anderson of Batavia has been taken into custody and held at the Genesee County Jail. He’s charged with robbery, criminal possession of a weapon, petit larceny and criminal mischief. It’s alleged Anderson cut a chain lock that was securing an electric bicycle while parked outside of a business on Veteran’s Memorial Drive.

Monroe High School (file photo)

Rochester Police say a loaded gun was found in the bag of a 17-year-old student at Monroe High School on Alexander Street this morning. Officers responded to the school just before 9:00am after getting a 9-1-1 call that a student brought a gun. According to police, the school’s security found a Taurus 9mm handgun loaded with 12 rounds during an entry screening. The gun and the male student were safely secured before officers arrived. The student is being detained and police are investigating.

Buffalo Police car – file photo

Buffalo police say that three people were shot early yesterday morning inside Club Marcella. A 21-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene and two others were injured and taken to local hospitals. Both are reported to be in stable condition as of this morning. Police said the shooting stemmed from some type of argument. This is the second shooting in the past two weeks at the club. A security guard was shot in the parking lot during the previous incident late last month.

New York State Troopers are investigating a fatal crash in Williamson. They said a car sped away after a traffic stop on Ridge Road on Saturday, and hit a parked car, a shed, and then a home. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported and the investigation continues.

57-year-old David Wahl of Scottsville has been charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, and other moving violations. He was allegedly found in possession of narcotics following a traffic stop last week in Bergen. Wahl was released on an appearance ticket.

According to Triple A, the national average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is now $3.42. The state average is a dime higher at $3.52; in Batavia, we’re paying $3.39 per gallon, up 4 cents from a week ago and up 7 cents from last month. Last year at this time, we were paying $3.60 per gallon.

Casey Mittelstadt – file photo

The Buffalo Sabres will be kicking off their west coast road trip tonight as they try and avoid a fourth straight loss. The Sabres are set to take on the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena. On Saturday, Buffalo was blown out by the Calgary Flames by a final score of 7-2. Tage Thompson scored the first goal of the game and then Casey Mittelstadt scored the second, but it was all downhill from there. Face-off for this evening’s contest is set for 10:30.

The New York State Department of Health has launched a new campaign that’s aimed at reducing the number of deadly drug overdoses. The goal is to provide people with an understanding of how to lower the number of overdoses as fentanyl continues to be found in a variety of drugs. The campaign also emphasizes how important the use of naloxone is as a tool to save a person’s life if they have overdosed. People who are struggling with addiction can call 1-877-8-HOPENY 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Cat and dog – file photo

Animal shelters and humane societies across the Empire State are going to be sharing over $7,500,000 in funding. Governor Hochul says this money can be used towards upgrades at those facilities to improve animal care and also to ensure dogs and cats are adopted. This is the latest round of funding for the state’s Companion Animal Capital Fund. Since 2017, more than $27,000,000 (million) has been dedicated to this program.

Please play responsibly.

The Powerball jackpot is starting to grow again. Lottery officials say no one picked all six numbers in Saturday’s drawing. That means tonight’s jackpot will be worth $45,000,000 (million). Please play responsibly.

With increased demand for mental health services and many providers saying they are booked solid a new option is available in Buffalo.  The Kirsten Vincent Respite & Recovery Center is offering patients care at several levels of crisis under one roof.  Shannon Higbee, CEO at Recovery Options Made Easy said the idea behind the Kirsten Vincent Respite & Recovery Center first came to be during the height of the pandemic when the need for mental health care surged.  The services are inpatient and in several locations in Buffalo.  All services are 100 percent voluntary.  

City School District employees, administrators, teachers, and staff, along with first responders from Batavia, participated in a Special Olympics fundraiser on Friday — a polar plunge — outside of John Kennedy Intermediate School.  The participants ran under the spray of a fire truck’s hose and got soaked.  The Special Olympics honors the school district that raises the most money, the Batavia event raised $8,700, the most in Western New York.  Special Olympics will host an ice cream social at John Kennedy sometime this year and the school’s colors will be part of the Polar Plunge sweatshirt next year.

Richmond Memorial Library will be hosting a zoom event this Wednesday with Claire Evans to talk about Alf Wright.  Wright, better known as James Herriot is the focus of the book series and a film and several tv shows including the PBS show, All Creatures Great and Small.  He was a country veterinarian for 50 years in the United Kingdom.  The event will be at 7pm. 

Emmanuel Baptist Church on Oak Street in Batavia is beginning their 8 part Free dinner and a bible study series.  Every Monday starting today at 6:15 they will be gathering to watch the episodes of the Chosen Bible tv series season 3 and eating a home cooked dinner.  The church invites anyone who would like to come and learn more about who Jesus is and what he did during His ministry 2000 years ago as portrayed in the series. 

Buffalo Safety Damar Hamlin will play NFL football again according to the NFL Players Association medical director Thom Mayer.  Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest during the Bills game vs the Bengals and was worked on by medical technicians for over 9 minutes to get his heart started again.  He has since promoted learning CPR and been recognized for his charitable work.  His doctors say he has made a remarkable recovery.  At the Super Bowl during the pregame pageantry, the NFL honored the Bills and Cincinnati Bengals training and medical staffs, along with the staff at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. A minute later, Hamlin joined them, putting his hands together to form a heart. He also received hugs from several of the first responders.

The Buffalo Sabres lost to the Calgary Flames 7 to 2 after the week off.  Tage Thompson scored the first goal of the game and then Casey Middlestadt scored the second, but it was all downhill from there.  They’ll hit the road for their next three games. A western road trip starting Monday against the Los Angeles Kings.

Sunday the requirement for people to mask up in healthcare settings will expire and New York State is not renewing it.  Back in September the CDC loosened it’s mask requirements but New York continued the renewal for staff, patients, and visitors in healthcare settings regardless if they were vaccinated or not.  This rule change will apply to hospitals, nursing homes, home health care and hospice agencies, and diagnostic and treatment centers.  University of Rochester Medical Center and Rochester Regional Health responded to the announcement by saying that they will continue requiring masks in their facilities, citing the emergency departments and hospitals being at or near capacity. 

If you received a pink letter in the mail it means you were caught buying drugs in the North Clinton Area of Rochester.  The City of Rochester has been mailing out these pink letters since November and city representatives say that most of them are going out of the city limits.  The initiative is meant to target those buying drugs, mailing them a letter telling them they were seen buying drugs and offering a list of criminal and safety risks.  The City says that several of the letters went to Batavia and Corfu.  

All flavored tobacco products could soon be banned in the state of New York.  The legislation, included in the Governor’s state budget would end the sale of menthol cigarettes, flavored cigars and cigarillos, and flavored smokeless tobacco. It expands the state’s ban on the sale of flavored vaping products.  The legislation would also add $1 to the tax of cigarette products in New York State.

February 17th Everpresent Church is holding a Mass Deliverance Service for people who struggle with mental and physical disorders.  While many disorders have a physical component Pastor Jason Norton believes that there is a spiritual component as well.  This service is a healing service for anyone who wants to attend.  The doors to the church, located in the City Center in Batavia, will open at 5:30 and the service starts at 6pm.  

The Notre Dame Running with the Irish 5K Run/Walk is back for its second year and is set to take place on March 11.  The event will kick off with a Kids Fun Run for children under 11 years old at 9 a.m., followed by the 5K run/walk starting at 10 a.m. The course will start behind the school and take runners north on Richmond Avenue, around the VA facility, and up and down Redfield Parkway before returning to the school.  Participants in the Kids Fun Run can register for $10, with prizes being given to all participants. T-shirts for the kids can be purchased separately. The 5K registration fee is $25 and includes a cotton long-sleeved T-shirt with the race logo.  All proceeds from the event will go towards supporting the athletic department at Notre Dame.

Xavier Hand

Recovered during the arrest of Xavier Hand

The Orleans County Major Felony Crime Task Force announced today that police arrested 26-year-old Xavier Hand of Medina. He’s charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal possession of a weapon, and criminal possession of a loaded firearm. Hand is currently on probation and has been committed to the Orleans County Jail. The investigation is ongoing; further charges and more arrests are pending.

43-year-old Justin Swift of LeRoy has been charged with grand larceny. This followed an investigation by the Genesee County Department of Social Services. It’s alleged that Swift failed to report that he had earned wages through employment, resulting in him receiving over $3300 ($3324) in SNAP benefits for which he was not entitled. Swift was arrested and arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on recognizance to appear at a later date.

Sidney Mellerson

Keshaun Atwood

Two men are now facing multiple charges following what’s being called a massive drug bust in Erie County. Sheriff John Garcia says this investigation began a few months ago and led to five ounces of fentanyl, more than three kilograms of cocaine, over $200,000 (thousand) in cash and eight guns being seized. Sidney Mellerson and Keshaun Atwood have been taken into custody and arraigned. This was the second big drug bust in the area since the beginning of the month.

Law enforcement has released early impressions from the investigation into a truck accident. It happened Wednesday afternoon in the Town of Wethersfield; they determined that 72-year-old George Foote of Gainesville failed to yield the right-of-way to a tractor-trailer truck while taking a left turn; the truck struck the rear end of Foote’s trailer, struck a guard rail and rolled over onto its side in a ditch. The driver of the vehicle was identified as 59-year-old Mark Ikeler of Gainesville who was pronounced deceased at the scene. Foote was issued a citation for failing to yield the right of way at a stop sign; the investigation continues.

Dimitri Cash, Sr.

A man accused of plotting to kill a Monroe County Family Court judge has been sentenced. Dimitri Cash, who’s already serving time for arranging the kidnapping of his children from their foster home, was sentenced yesterday to 8 to 25 years in prison. Cash was convicted in December of conspiring with others to murder Judge Stacey Romeo because he was upset with her rulings in his custody case. Cash defended himself in court, arguing his actions were not a crime because Romeo is still alive. Prosecutors said the murder plans went as far as staking out the judge’s home and neighborhood, monitoring her daily routine and doing online research about her life. Cash’s sentence will run consecutively to his sentence of 115 years to life for his separate case involving kidnapping and robbery charges.

Starpoint High School, Lockport, NY

The Starpoint High School wrestling team is currently under investigation by the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office. Earlier this week, it was announced that the rest of the team’s season has been canceled following serious allegations that have been made against one or more members of the varsity wrestling squad. No other details about those claims have been revealed. The Lockport school was supposed to host a wrestling tournament this weekend, but the event has been moved to North Tonawanda.

Love will be in the air as Valentine’s Day nears, and the state Division of Consumer Protection is warning New Yorkers about romance scams. The agency says romance scams occur when a criminal lies about their identity and feigns romantic interest to steal from victims. Officials say if someone you haven’t met asks you for money, assume it’s a scam. Also, never give out personal information to someone you’ve met online and only use trusted online dating sites. People can also do a reverse image search of an individual’s profile photo to see if it’s linked to another name or scam.

The big game is coming up on Sunday, and police across the state are going to be cracking down on drunk drivers during this Super Bowl weekend. People who are out on the roads can expect to see increased patrols from today through Monday as part of the latest STOP-DWI campaign. Police say folks can ensure that they get home safely by having a designated driver or by using a taxi or rideshare service. Drivers who see any suspicious or dangerous activities while traveling should dial 911 right away.

Damar Hamlin at NFL Honors – 2/9/23

Damar Hamlin stole the show at the NFL Honors. The 12th annual year-end awards gala took place in Phoenix last night, just days ahead of the Super Bowl. The highlight of the show was when the Buffalo Bills safety made a surprise appearance and received a standing ovation after suffering cardiac arrest on the field earlier this year.

Keybank Center – file photo

The Buffalo Sabres will be returning from break this weekend as they look to continue their push towards making the playoffs. The Sabres are set to host the Calgary Flames at KeyBank Center. Buffalo last played on February 1st when they were defeated by the Carolina Hurricanes 5-1. Face-off for tomorrow’s contest is set for 12:30.

A man accused of plotting to kill a Monroe County Family Court judge was sentenced Thursday.  Dimitri Cash, who’s already serving time for arranging the kidnapping of his children from their foster home, was sentenced to 8-25 years in prison.  Cash was convicted in December of conspiring with others to murder Judge Stacey Romeo because he was upset with her rulings in his custody case. Cash defended himself in court, arguing his actions were not a crime because Romeo is still alive.  Prosecutors said the murder plans went as far as staking out the judge’s home and neighborhood, monitoring her daily routine and doing online research about her life.  Cash’s sentence will run consecutively to his sentence of 115 years to life for his separate case involving kidnapping and robbery charges.

In an effort to combat fraud NY is rolling out new inspection stickers.  The new stickers will come in blank rolls that will then have the inspection and vehicle information printed as needed instead of having preprinted stickers that were a target of theft.  Shop owners had to lock the old ones away for fear that they would be stolen and used as all that needed to be done was write on it and pop out the month tab.  Now they will come with QR codes and specific info that will be scannable by the police.  Right now, about 60 to 70 auto service centers in the state have the new equipment, while more printers are expected to be rolled out in the second quarter of 2023.

In anticipation of the many gatherings for Super Bowl weekend, local law enforcement agencies will once again be participating in a STOP-DWI campaign. Starting tomorrow and through Monday, they will be coordinating efforts across the state to reduce the number of impaired, driving-related injuries and deaths. If you see anyone driving erratically over the weekend or anytime, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

Go Art is holding a fundraiser for the Peruvian Outreach Project that helps orphaned children in Peru.  There will be a dinner and basket raffle fundraiser to help with expenses for outreach efforts. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and dinner is at 7 p.m. on March 25.  Organizer Kathy Houlihan hopes to have at least 20 baskets for the event, and winning tickets will be drawn at 8:30 p.m.  Peruvian dishes will be served and there will be a cash bar and door prizes.  Presale tickets are 30 dollars and can be purchased online with venmo or paypal or by mail.  

David M McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena has a new name for the zamboni machine.  The pepsi sponsored ice cleaning and shaping machine is called Skully McPepsi.  The Zamboni’s facelift is a product of Pepsi Upstate New York Market business manager and Batavian Tom Fluker’s initial idea of an imposing skull in a hockey setting, the artistry of Janette Biehler of Beals Graphic Design of Rochester and the precision “wrapping” by Guy Laesser’s Unitech Application of Le Roy.  The Zamboni now sports space age colors of purple and blue, punctuated by lightning and the logos of Pepsi Zero, Gatorade, McCarthy Ice Arena, Batavia Notre Dame United and Ramparts youth hockey.

It is too warm out for a good snowball fight.  So the worlds largest snowball fight has been canceled.  The Pirate Toy Fund was organizing an attempt to beat the Guinness World Record on February 18th in Chili at the Archer Rd Field.  With temperatures expected to be in the 60s at times next week there isn’t enough snow.  Organizers hope to host and beat the record next year.

A high wind warning is in effect overnight tonight.

From 7:00 this evening to 7:00am tomorrow morning Genesee, Wyoming and Orleans Counties are under a High Wind Warning. Southwest winds at 30 to 40 mph with occasional gusts of 60 mph are predicted. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult and people should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows.

New York State wants to get rid of natural gas heating and cooking but it won’t come overnight. According to the recently released New York Scoping Plan, by 2025 all new construction of low rise buildings will need to be electric. By 2028 all new high-rise construction will also need to be electric only as will be the case for all replacement appliances by 2030. Finally, new vehicles in 2035 that are sold in New York State will be electric only.

In anticipation of the many gatherings for Super Bowl weekend, local law enforcement agencies will once again be participating in a STOP-DWI campaign. Starting tomorrow and through Monday, they will be coordinating efforts across the state to reduce the number of impaired, driving-related injuries and deaths. If you see anyone driving erratically over the weekend or anytime, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

Payton Gendron (file photo)

The man who pulled the trigger in a mass shooting at a Buffalo Tops store is expected to appear in federal court next week. According to WIVB-TV, Payton Gendron is scheduled to face a judge next Thursday, February 16th. In November, Gendron pleaded guilty to state charges for opening fire at the Jefferson Avenue store last May. There were 10 people killed and three others hurt in what was called a racially motivated attack. If Gendron is found guilty on federal charges, he could get the death penalty.

Unidentified teenager receiving Covid booster shot (file photo)

The number of confirmed Covid cases has more than doubled in our region in the past month. The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments reports today there were 96 confirmed Covid cases during the measured week ending February 7th. That compares to 45 cases this time, one month ago. The seven-day average positivity rate for the two counties is 6.5%; overall, Western New York has the highest rate in the state at 12.48%. Long Island has the lowest at 4.02%. The federal CDC currently lists both Genesee and Orleans Counties at the medium community risk level. Governor Hochul continues to urge people to take basic steps to protect against the spread of viral respiratory infections that are more common in the winter season.

Pothole in road (file photo)

Governor Hochul has announced that $100,000,000 (million) in state funds will be used to repave roads impacted by extreme weather. The money will help cover repaving projects in over 60 locations statewide, totaling more than 500 lane miles of pavement. Roads that are going be fixed in our region are in Livingston, Wayne, Monroe, Ontario, Yates, and Genesee counties. The governor says these repair projects are vital to help ensure roads are safe.

Ryan Stencel

A 20-year-old man is facing criminally negligent homicide charges for causing a crash that left two people dead. Prosecutors say Ryan Stencel was driving on Warner Road in Lancaster last March when the vehicle slammed into a tree and caught fire. Two passengers in the vehicle were killed but Stencel only needed treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. Erie County District Attorney John Flynn says Stencel acted with substantial and unjustifiable risk while behind the wheel. Stencel is facing prison time if convicted.

Damar Hamlin with award – 2/8/23

Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills is getting some much-deserved recognition for all of the work that has done off the field. Yesterday, Hamlin was named the 2023 NFLPA Alan Page Community Award winner, which is the highest honor the NFLPA can give to a player. Hamlin made national headlines earlier this year when he ended up going into cardiac arrest during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Hamlin, who is still recovering, was one of five finalists for the award. The NFLPA is going to donate $100,000 to his Chasing M’s Foundation.

NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is standing up for the league’s officials. Goodell said he doesn’t believe officiating in the NFL has “ever been better” when speaking at his annual Super Bowl week news conference Wednesday. The national spotlight has been on officiating following some questionable calls in the league’s conference championship games last month.

Tage Thompson (file photo)

As the NHL All-Star Week comes to an end, and with 32 games left in the regular season, the Buffalo Sabres are heading into playoff contention. This season the Sabres have scored 186 times, averaging 3.72 goals per game, ranking them 3rd in the NHL. Credit goes to Tage Thompson, Dylan Cozens, Jeff Skinner and Alex Tuch. The Sabres go up against the Calgary Flames on Saturday at 12:30 in the afternoon at Keybank Center after a week off.

From 7pm tonight to 7am Friday morning Genesee, Wyoming and Orleans counties are under a High Wind Warning.  Southwest winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected.  Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.  People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows.

New York State wants to get rid of natural gas heating and cooking but it won’t come overnight.  According to a plan released in the New York Scoping Plan by 2025 all new construction of low rise buildings will need to be electric.  By 2028 all new high rise construction will need to be electric only.  By 2030 all replacement appliances will need to be electric only.  And lastly by 2035 all new vehicles sold in New York State will be electric only.

On Friday a Batavia City councilman had a visit from two criminals at his home.  John Canale was working in his kitchen when 2 women came to his door complaining of the bitter cold and asking to come in and get warmed up.  He says one was crying and they were both shivering.  Canale says that he noticed a police presence on the street outside the home and then the women left on foot suddenly.  He called the police and found that they were being looked for by the police in connection to a theft at Pawn King.  Police caught them hiding in an outbuilding with the help of K-9 units.  31 year old Breana Brummond and 26 year old Brittany Hollaert, both of Rochester have been charged with petit larceny and attempted grand larceny, criminal trespass and several traffic offenses.  

The Batavia City government finished the meeting on Tuesday night without adding any amendments to the budget.  City manager Rachel Tabelski said there are no plans to raise assessments.  The city police budget of 4,323,847 dollars was talked over including the K-9, MRAP and old police station.  Police Chief Heubusch said he hoped the 10 Main street station will be having it’s last year on the budget as the new station is being built next year.  Once again he lamented how few people were taking the civil service exam and how they will be filling the 3 vacancies on the force.  

Batavia City School District is selling their old Pianos.  They had the three Baldwin Hamilton Upright pianos at auction but they didn’t get any bids so they are instead selling them individually.  The pianos are available on a first-come-first-served basis, and they will need to be picked up.  If you’re interested, please contact Jim Jacobs via email (jjacobs@bataviacsd.org) by Friday, February 17.

Damar Hamlin made a brief appearance in Phoenix during Super Bowl week to receive the NFLPA’s Alan Page Community Award.  The Buffalo Bills safety received the award at the Phoenix Convention Center on Wednesday, a little over a month after he went into cardiac arrest and needed to be resuscitated on the field in Cincinnati.  Hamlin was one of five finalists for the Alan Page Award, which annually recognizes one player who goes above and beyond to perform community service in his team city and/or hometown.  Hamlin’s toy drive fundraiser received unexpected GoFundMe donations in the days and weeks after he collapsed. Chasing M’s has since raised more than $9 million.

The Buffalo Sabres are in new territory as they are heading into playoff contention now that the All Star Week is coming to an end.  There are 32 games left in the regular season.  This season the Sabres have scored 186 times, averaging 3.72 goals per game, ranking them 3rd in the NHL.  Credit goes to Tage Thompson, Dylan Cozens, Jeff Skinner and Alex Tuch.  The Sabres go up against the Calgary Flames on Saturday at 12:30 in the afternoon at Keybank Center after a week off.

Unidentified person forgot to use extra hair spray

There is a high wind watch Thursday and Friday in Orleans and Genesee Counties. The southwest winds are expected to start by 7:00pm tomorrow night and gust at times up to 40 miles per hour; occasional 60 mile per hour gusts are possible, especially between 11pm and 2am. The watch is in effect until 7:00am Friday morning. Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

A fatal house fire is under investigation in Wyoming County. The fire occurred around 9:15 a.m. Tuesday at 1291 Maxon Road in the Town of Bennington. Emergency crews from many towns were called to the scene to assist. According to police, one woman was found dead in the home. The house has been ruled a total loss and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

GENESEE COUNTY SHERIFF’s REPORT: 37-year-old Jason Lebar of Bethany has been charged with criminal mischief and petit larceny. Lebar is accused of prying a vehicle emblem from the rear of a pickup truck at a local dealership last Wednesday. There was reportedly significant damage to the vehicle. Lebar is also accused of trying to remove another emblem but destroyed it in the process. He was arraigned in City Court and released. ALSO: 32-year-old Michael Shelter of Oakfield has been charged with criminal contempt, aggravated family offense and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. This followed a police investigation into a 9-1-1 hang-up call in the City of Batavia and discovered an apparent disturbance involving Shelter and a person under an order of protection. Shelter allegedly fled the scene in the victim’s car. Shelter was jailed pending arraignment. ALSO: 39-year-old Jessica Holtz of Batavia was arrested on two warrants, following her release from Monroe County jail. Both warrants are associated with alleged petit larceny. Holtz was held pending arraignment. ALSO: 32-year-old Krista Kiblin of Rochester was charged with petit larceny. She allegedly stole merchandise from an unspecified Batavia location late last month. Kiblin was issued an appearance ticket. ALSO: An unidentified 18-year-old male, of Washington Avenue, Batavia has been jailed and is held on bail or bond. The youth was arrested last Wednesday after an investigation into a physical altercation and a violation of an order of protection in the City of Batavia.

INDICTMENTS, from Genesee County Court: Frank Falleti has been indicted on one count of criminal possession of a forged instrument (a Class D felony) and one count of falsifying a business record (a Class E felony). He is accused of possessing a forged New York State registration document with the intent to defraud or deceive another person. Falleti is also accused of knowingly not entering a 2019 Mazda into the state online registry, with the intent to defraud that included intent to commit, aid or conceal another crime. ALSO: Joseph Martino is indicted on one count of burglary in the third degree (a Class D felony), and grand larceny (in the fourth degree). Martino is accused of entering a building on East Main Street, Batavia, and stealing property with a value in excess of $1,000. ALSO: Chad Williams has been indicted on one count of criminal possession of stolen property (a Class E felony), criminal possession of a forged instrument (a Class D felony), criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree, and criminal impersonation. Williams allegedly was found in possession of a 2008 Honda Civic on Nov. 8, along with a forged Texas motor vehicle registration. He is accused of knowingly possessing narcotics packaging. He is also accused of assuming the identity of another person.

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles says the inspection stickers that are placed on the windshield of your vehicle are getting a new look. The print-on-demand stickers will be printed at inspection stations and include vehicle-specific information on them in order to enhance security. The color of the sticker itself will continue to change depending on the expiration year. The current stickers are in the process of being phased out.

With New Yorkers handing over a lot of money to pay for groceries these days, the Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection is providing tips on how you can save at the supermarket. The agency recommends purchasing items that you frequently buy in bulk and planning meals in advance to reduce food waste. Also, enroll in the reward programs that stores offer and look for coupons online. Finally, shop strategically by taking inventory of what you have at home before going to the store.

Yassin Abdikadir

The Erie County District Attorney’s Office says that a Buffalo man is facing some prison time after admitting that he stole a fire truck. Prosecutors say 26-year-old Yassin Abdikadir took the vehicle last July while it was at the scene of an emergency call in the area of Main Street and West Huron Street. Abdikadir then abandoned the vehicle near Delaware Avenue and Allen Street and was later found hiding in a garbage tote. He could be ordered to spend up to 15 years behind bars when he’s sentenced in April.

Kim Pegula (file photo)

The daughter of Buffalo Bills co-owner Kim Pegula has provided an update on her mother’s current condition. Jessica Pegula says that Kim suffered a cardiac arrest at the family’s home in Florida in June and that CPR likely saved her life. She went on to say that her mom is continuing to recover but is struggling to communicate and has memory issues. Kim Pegula and her husband Terry are also the co-owners of the Buffalo Sabres.

Dylan Cozens (file photo)

The Buffalo Sabres have announced that they’ve agreed to a contract extension with center Dylan Cozens. The deal will last for seven years and pay Cozens more than $49,000,000 (million). This season, Cozens has tallied 17 goals and 43 points in the 49 games he has played with the team that drafted him in 2019. Cozens is now the third player to sign a 7-year contract extension with the Sabres in the last six months, joining Tage Thompson and Mattias Samuelsson. All three are under the age of 26. The Sabres are going to be back in action on Saturday when they host the Calgary Flames. The puck drops at 12:30.

An investigation is underway after two postal carriers reported that they were robbed in Rochester. The first robbery happened January 31st on High Point Trail and the second crime occurred about an hour later near Clarissa Street and Tubman Way. In both incidents, equipment was stolen from the mail carriers but they were not injured. Anyone with information can contact the Postal Inspection Service at 877-876-2455.