Tuesday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on March 3, 2026
Camp Takes Helm at Batavia PD
As the new Chief of the Batavia Police Department, Christopher Camp says the transition following former Chief Shawn Heubusch’s departure has been seamless.
Camp says promotions from within the department helped maintain stability, allowing officers to continue delivering a high level of service without disruption.
The department has 35 sworn members, including patrol officers, detectives, school resource officers and a K-9 unit, with just one current vacancy. Two recruits are in academy training.
Recent efforts include more than 100 hours of training, participation in community events like Stuff the Cruiser, and two officers earning STOP-DWI “Top Cop” honors.
Chief Camp says the department remains committed to protecting and serving the Batavia community.
Genesee County Dairy Farmer Honored as NY FarmHer
A Genesee County dairy farmer is being recognized statewide.
Natasha Stein Sutherland of Stein Farms and Boulder Farm in Le Roy has been named the New York Animal Agriculture Coalition’s first “FarmHer” of 2026. The award highlights outstanding women in agriculture as the U.N. prepares to mark the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Stein Sutherland serves as herd manager on her family’s multi-generational dairy operation, which includes 18-hundred cows and about 30 employees.
She says farming is more than a job — it’s a lifestyle — and hopes the recognition shines a light on the vital role women play in agriculture across the region.
U.S. Fighter Jets Downed by Friendly Fire in Kuwait
Three American fighter jets were mistakenly shot down by friendly Kuwaiti air defenses Monday during an Iranian air assault, according to the U.S. military.
All six crew members aboard the F-15E Strike Eagles safely ejected and were recovered in stable condition.
The incident happened as Iranian aircraft, missiles and drones were actively attacking targets in the region. Iranian state television claimed one of the U.S. jets had been targeted, though U.S. officials say Kuwaiti forces accidentally brought the planes down while supporting American combat operations.
Witnesses reported seeing one jet fall in flames as an airman parachuted to safety.
U.S. Central Command says the incident is under investigation.
YWCA Opens Nominations for Women of Inspiration Awards
The YWCA of Genesee County is now accepting nominations for its 2026 Women of Inspiration Awards.
The annual event honors women who make a meaningful impact across Genesee County and serve as role models in their communities. This year’s celebration is set for April 19th from noon to 2:30 at Batavia Downs Gaming and Hotel.
The keynote speaker will be Peggy Marone, Director of Leadership Genesee, who has spent more than 20 years mentoring and developing leaders throughout the county.
Organizers say the awards shine a spotlight on women who go above and beyond to strengthen the community.
Trump Signals U.S. Could Extend Iran Operations as Conflict Widens
As fighting in the Middle East intensifies, President Donald Trump says the U.S. has the capability to continue military operations against Iran beyond the initially projected four- to five-week timeline.
Speaking during a Medal of Honor ceremony, Trump’s comments come as U.S. and Israeli forces continue strikes against Iran following the reported killing of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran and its allies have retaliated with missile and drone attacks targeting Israel, Gulf states, and key energy infrastructure.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the operation, saying recent strikes aim to weaken Iran’s naval forces and curb its nuclear and missile programs. Meanwhile, the U.S. military says it has taken out 11 Iranian warships in the Gulf of Oman.
The escalating conflict has disrupted air travel, displaced civilians in Lebanon, and raised concerns about a prolonged war with no clear endgame.
Elba Boys Rallies Into Class D Championship
Elba is headed to the Section V Class D finals after a 52-45 comeback win over Jasper-Troupsburg Monday night at Wayland-Cohocton.
The Lancers trailed 27-23 at the half and faced a double-digit deficit earlier before storming back in the second half. Elba tied the game at 40 in the fourth quarter, then took control with a clutch three-pointer and strong free-throw shooting down the stretch.
Jasper-Troupsburg cut it to two late, but Elba secured key rebounds and closed it out.
Nick Scott finished with 14 points and 10 rebounds as the Lancers punched their ticket to Friday’s title game.
