Tuesday News Brief

Drones Take Flight as Wet Spring Challenges Local Farmers

An unusually wet start to 2026 in Genesee County is creating challenges for farmers — but also opening the door for new technology.
With this year ranking among the wettest in more than a century, fields have been too muddy for traditional equipment. That’s where Charles Augello and his company, WNY Aerial AG, come in.
Using drones, Augello is able to spray crops like onions quickly and efficiently without damaging soaked soil. He says timing is critical, especially during narrow windows for herbicide application, and drones allow farmers to stay on schedule without tearing up their fields.
A lifelong farmer with roots in the Elba muck, Augello launched the business about a year ago after seeing a need for a more flexible, cost-effective solution.
Now working with several local farms, he says the technology is helping farmers adapt to unpredictable weather while protecting their land — offering a modern approach to an age-old industry.

 

Free AI Class Tonight at Richmond Memorial Library

Want to better understand artificial intelligence without all the hype?
A free class titled “What the Tech?” is happening tonight at 7 p.m. at Richmond Memorial Library in Batavia.
The session will break down how AI is actually impacting everyday life, covering both the opportunities and potential risks in a clear, easy-to-understand way.
The event takes place in the library’s Gallery Room — and yes, there will be free pizza.

 

 

 

Iran Offers Deal to Reopen Key Oil Route Amid Global Pressure

Iran is offering to reopen the critical Strait of Hormuz — a key global shipping route — if the U.S. agrees to lift its blockade and bring the war to an end.
The proposal, delivered through intermediaries, comes as the standoff continues to disrupt global energy markets. Roughly 20% of the world’s oil and gas passes through the strait, and its closure has already driven prices sharply higher.
However, the deal would push off negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program — a major concern for U.S. officials. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated any agreement must address nuclear weapons development, making the proposal a tough sell in Washington.
With oil prices climbing and supply chains tightening, dozens of countries are now urging both sides to reach a resolution as the economic and humanitarian impacts continue to grow.

 

Multiple Arrests in Genesee County Include Harassment, Theft Charges

Several arrests have been reported across Genesee County involving harassment and theft-related incidents.
Connor Lochren, 22, of Batavia, is charged with aggravated harassment and endangering the welfare of a child following a complaint in Alexander. After an investigation, he was taken into custody and held for arraignment.
Megan Seymour, 36, of Batavia, faces petit larceny and falsifying business records charges. Authorities say she allegedly stole merchandise from Walmart and later sold the items to a local pawn shop. She turned herself in and was released with an appearance ticket.
Curt Buchinger, 33, of Batavia, is charged with two counts of petit larceny after allegedly stealing merchandise from both Dick’s Sporting Goods and Target within minutes of each other on Veteran’s Memorial Drive.
All three are scheduled to appear in local courts at later dates.

 

 

 

Heart and Sole 5K Draws 300+, Raises Over $4K for Mental Health

The Pembroke Teachers’ Federation’s second annual Heart and Sole 5K was a big success Saturday, raising awareness and funds for mental health resources in Genesee County.
More than 300 runners from across Western New York turned out despite cold, rainy conditions, helping the event set records for both participation and donations.
The day also featured appearances from the Batavia Muckdogs and Buffalo Bandettes, along with local vendors and a community raffle.
Organizers say the event has already raised over $4,000, with the goal of continuing to highlight the importance of mental health and available resources in the community.

 

 

Trumps Call for Kimmel’s Firing After Controversial Joke

Donald and Melania Trump are calling for ABC to fire late-night host Jimmy Kimmel following a controversial joke about the first lady.
During a recent segment, Kimmel referred to Melania Trump as having “the glow of an expectant widow,” a remark both Trumps condemned as inappropriate and harmful.
In separate statements, they accused Kimmel of promoting divisive and dangerous rhetoric, with the former president saying the comedian should be “immediately fired.”
The backlash comes just days after a security scare at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, where an armed man attempted to enter the event.
ABC has not publicly responded, and Kimmel remains under contract with the network through 2027.

 

 

 

 

O-A Stays Perfect, Full Slate of Softball Action Monday

Oakfield-Alabama stayed unbeaten at 7-0 with a 10-2 win over Le Roy, powered by Chloe Lamb and Emma Thompson, who combined for seven hits and six RBIs. Savannah Durham struck out 12 in a complete-game win.
Elba picked up a 13-7 win over Notre Dame behind a four-hit, three-RBI performance from Lauryn Hawkins, while Attica rolled past Wheatland-Chili 14-2 with a 10-strikeout outing from Hailey Mills.
Pittsford Mendon defeated Batavia 11-4, and York/Pavilion earned a strong 3-0 road win over Keshequa, highlighted by Megan MacKay’s two-RBI hit and a standout defensive effort.