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Police looking for suspect on routes 5, 237, Stafford

By Howard B. Owens

Sheriff's deputies have converged on the area of Route 5 and Route 237, Stafford, to look for a suspect.

It's not clear what the initial complaint was about, but the caller has stated the suspect threatened to shoot him.

The suspect may be on ATV.

UPDATE 9:10 a.m.: I've not heard much more on this. There was a consultation with DEC for some reason. It sounds like, though not clear, that law enforcement is still on scene.

Man who tried to steal oxycodone given prison term

By Howard B. Owens

A Batavia man who admitted to attempted robbery for trying to steal oxycodone from the Oakfield Pharmacy will spend one-and-a-half to three years in prison.

He must also receive substance-abuse counseling.

Cain Catino, 39, was sentenced in Genesee County Court today for the Sept. 20 attempted robbery, which was thwarted when the store owners wrestled Catino to the ground. It was revealed in court later that Catino had a knife on him at the time.

Last month, his mother, Kathleen Catino, 60, admitted she tried to smuggle oxycodone into her son at the Genesee County Jail. She is scheduled to be sentenced in January.

Elba students provided with information on cyberbullying

By Howard B. Owens

Deputy Tim Wescott and Youth Officer John Dehm were at Elba School this morning to talk with students about cyberbulling and Facebook and mobile phone safety. They explained how to avoid cyberbullying and the legal implications.

Photo and information submitted by Jason Smith.

Two-to-four car MVA reported on Thruway

By Howard B. Owens

Two and possibly four cars were involved in an accident on the Thruway in the area of mile marker 396.

A semi-truck reportedly is jackknifed.

Unknown injuries.

East Pembroke Fire and Mercy EMs dispatched.

UPDATE 1:32 p.m.: Two cars are smashed against a guardrail and the truck is off the side of the road. Traffic is not blocked.

UPDATE 1:40 p.m.: No injuries.

Police Beat: Driver accused of hit-and-run in the city arrested

By Howard B. Owens

Justin J. Wheeler, 37, of Attica, is charged with driving with ability impaired by drugs and failure to keep right. Wheeler is accused of being involved in an alleged hit-and-run accident on South Main Street, Batavia, and was subsequently stopped on Route 98, Town of Alexander, for allegedly operating erratically. (initial report)

Thomas Anthony Sobczak, 45, of West Main Street, Corfu, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of marijuana. Sobczak was stopped on an unidentified road in Batavia at 2:45 p.m., Nov. 15, for allegedly following too closely behind a semi-trailer by Deputy Brian Thompson. Thompson reported allegedly finding marijuana and codeine in Sobczak's possession.

Jeffrey M. Kohorst, 22, of 6105 Main Road, Stafford, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater and speeding. Kohorst was stopped at 9:51 p.m., Saturday, in the City of Batavia by Officer Kevin DeFelice.

Michael Todd Dibble, 19, of Indian Falls Road, Corfu, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Dibble was stopped at 11:35 p.m., Saturday, on Route 5, Town of Batavia, for an alleged traffic violation by Deputy Kevin McCarthy.

A 16-year-old of Pratt Road, Batavia, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. The youth was charged following a traffic stop on Angling Road, Pembroke, by Deputy Brian Thompson. A 16-year-old passenger in the car was also charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. The 17-year-old driver was charged with unlawful possession of marijuana, reckless driving and speeding (90 mph in a 55 mph zone). The reckless driving drive stems from an alleged attempt to elude law enforcement with four passengers in the car.

Gary David Doctor, 28, of East Main Street, Corfu, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and unsafe tires. Doctor was stopped on Route 33, Pembroke by Deputy Brian Thompson.

Dylan James Hawkins, 18, of Hilltop Acres, Morrow Road, Pavilion, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Hawkins was reportedly a passenger in a vehicle stopped on East Avenue by Deputy Brian Thompson. The 17-year-old driver, of Bryant Street, Batavia, was also charged with unlawful possession of marijuana.

Teriance M. Schramm, 20, of Edwards Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon and unlawful possession of marijuana. Schramm was allegedly seen on Nov. 15 walking down Ross Street with nunchaku ("nunchucks") in his pocket. He was questioned by Deputy Matt Butler and also found to allegedly possess marijuana.

Summer Ogden, 34, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt and disobeying a court order. Ogden was arrested by State Police at 8:32 a.m., Saturday. No further details released.

Accident on Route 33, Bergen

By Howard B. Owens

A two-car accident has been reported in the area of Old State Road and Route 33, Bergen.

There are no injuries reported, but one car is blocking Route 33.


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Today's Deals: Returning today, Batavia Downs Grandstand Bar & Grille

By Howard B. Owens

Returning Today: Batavia Downs Grandstand Bar & Grille, 8315 Park Road, Batavia, NY: A full menu, salad bar and drinks in one of the region's most popular entertainment venues. We have $25 gift certificates for $12.50.

Pudgie's Lawn and Garden Center, 3646 W. Main St. Road, Batavia, NY: Fall decorations are in as well as a big selection of spring bulbs. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

The Daily Grind, 85 E. Main St., Batavia, NY: For Batavia's finest coffee, smoothies, as well as fast and convenient breakfasts and lunches, stop into The Daily Grind. We have a $10 gift card for $5.

South Main Country Gifts, 3356 Main St. Road, Batavia, NY: Handcrafted items, gifts with a regional flair, candles, teas and spices -- South Main has a wide selection to please most any interest. Decorate your home or office for Fall or start your Christmas shopping. We have a $20 gift certificate for $10.

The Enchanted Florist, 202 E. Main St., Batavia, NY: What better way to brighten your home or office for the holidays than with flowers? We have a $20 gift certificate for $9.50.

Present Tense Books and Gifts, 101 Washington Ave., Batavia, NY: Whether your taste runs to local authors, the finest in fiction or nonfiction or you're looking for a unique and special gift, this charming store in a cozy Victorian house on the edge of downtown is a great place to shop. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

Carlson's Studio, 39 Jackson St., Batavia, NY: Holiday portrait time is now, or save for a spring wedding or other special event. We have a $150 gift card for $75 (+$2 PayPal service fee).

Pudgie's Lawn and Garden Center, 3646 W. Main St. Road, Batavia, NY: Christmas trees will be available soon. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

Adam Miller Toy & Bicycles, 8 Center St., Batavia, NY: Feel like a kid in a toy store again, or treat your kids to the greatest toy store they will ever see. We have a $25 gift certificate for $12.50.

NOTE: If you've never bought Deal of the Day before, or are otherwise unfamiliar with the rules and process, click here.

The Mane Attraction

Carlson's Studio

Oakfield man dies in late night fire

By Howard B. Owens

A 48-year-old Oakfield resident died overnight as a result of a fire at 7154 Pine St., Oakfield.

Jeffery D. Repass, a resident at the address, was pronounced dead at the scene following the 12:39 a.m. blaze, which started in a bedroom.

Four other occupants escaped safely.

The house was heavily damaged and the cause of the blaze is under investigation by the Oakfield Fire Department, the Genesee County Sheriff's Office and Genesee County Emergency Management.

Assisting at the scene were the Elba Fire Department, Alabama Fire Department, East Pembroke Fire Department, Mercy EMS and the Genesee County Coroner's Office.

(Initial Report)

Structure fire on Pine Street in Oakfield

By Billie Owens

A structure fire, believed to have begun in a bedroom, is reported at 7154 Pine St. in Oakfield. It's off of Maple Avenue, the last street coming out of the village.

Oakfield, Alabama and Elba fire units are called to respond.

UPDATE 12:56 a.m.: Firefighters are working on extricating people from the building.

UPDATE 12:58 a.m.: An investigator requested to the scene. At least one person is out of the building and requires medical attention.

UPDATE 1:06 a.m.: National Grid notified. No ETA.

UPDATE 1:24 a.m.: Fire's been knocked out.

UPDATE: Further updates on this fire will be available in the morning.

 


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Ram rams into house in Bergen

By Billie Owens

A rambunctious ram is reported to have rammed its way through a door and into a house at 6826 Pocock Road in Bergen. It was said to be thrashing about wildly.

When first reported about 20 minutes ago, officers said the residents "were trying to get it out as we speak."

Apparently someone was successful, since it is now outside the residence and Sheriff's Deputies are endeavoring to corral the ram.

Someone possibly suffered a leg injury during the commotion.

The house is said to be among a small group of homes at that address and it is the "southernmost house with an attached garage."

Minor injury accident in Bergen

By Billie Owens

A minor-injury, hit-and-run accident is reported on Dublin Road, about a mile east of West Bergen Road.

Bergen fire and State Police are on scene. Medics are also called.

The vehicle on scene is totaled. The other, an "F-150 type" Ford pickup, probably has substantial damage. It was last seen headed eastbound on Dublin Road. It is said to be dark colored.

Police looking for red pickup allegedly involved in hit-and-run on South Main, Batavia

By Howard B. Owens

Attica PD has been notified of a suspected hit-and-run driver heading South on Route 98 after allegedly hitting a parked car at 7 South Main St., Batavia.

The suspect truck is a red 2004 Ford F-150.

A Batavia Police officer said the same vehicle was suspected of erratic operation yesterday.

UPDATE 5:42 p.m.: Attica PD has the vehicle stopped in Attica.

UPDATE 5:46 p.m.: A Sheriff's Deputy is on his way to Attica to get the suspect.


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Photos: Santa makes annual visit to Oliver's Candies

By Howard B. Owens

Santa Claus passed through Batavia today, making a stop at Oliver's Candies (I've also heard that he stopped at Present Tense Books, but I didn't find that out until later).

While Santa was in the sweetshop, the Batavia Area Jaycees were outside selling hot dogs and running a petting zoo.

Besides the three pictures on this post, a couple of additional photos are available for purchase by clicking here.

Photos: School bus auction

By Howard B. Owens

First Student, Inc., a bus company on Oak Street, held an auction today. I didn't find out about it until after it was all over, but I'm told 250 old school buses were sold.

Buyers came from Kansas, Mexico and Guatemala, among other places.

Batavia Downs hosts Winter Wonderland of Arts, Crafts & Gifts

By Daniel Crofts

Alicia Lurye of AK Entertainment is happy to be hosting the "Winter Wonderland of Arts, Crafts & Gifts" this weekend at Batavia Downs Casino. She said this is the first Christmas show at the Downs for many years.

"They just haven't found anyone willing to do it," she said. "And look at the turnout."

A lot of people came to browse and buy what 40 crafters and vendors had to offer:

Tami Burbules of East Pembroke offered free samples of her bread dips. She is selling them in addition to desserts, veggie dips and other treats from Gourmet Creations.

Pam Perkins, of Small Town Girl, dazzled passersby with precious stones, different colored copper wires and glass beads.

Nearby, perfume bottles, tunics and other goods made in Egypt were on display.

Hosting this table were Mary Feola and her daughter, Staci (both pictured below). The best friend of Staci's fiancé -- who is Egyptian -- made the perfume bottles; she and her fiancé made the tunics.

Joanne Lee, of Palmyra-based Goldy's Goodies, with her jewelry and mosaic art (pictured below).

Susan Johnson, of LeRoy, promoted her homemade hot sauce, "Susi's Sauce" -- which fans promise to be "better than Frank's" -- and had free samples with pretzel sticks.

Flavors include Original Hot, Sweet Heat, Double Dog Dare, Triple Dog Dare and Hot Mess (habenero with garlic).

Pictured here is Lory Volkmar of Maple Grove Saddlery, a full-service tack shop for Western and English riders located in Pavilion.

In addition to riders' gear, they also have a gift shop as well as organic nut/peanut butters, jellies and local honey. These were on display at the craft show.

Sue Maniace and her daughter, Olivia, represented Cookie Lee Jewelry, which is a home show business. Look at all that bling!

Linda Dove, left, and Danielle Eckert handed out information on ESL Federal Credit Union, which just opened in Batavia on Nov. 1. It's at 4214 Veterans Memorial Drive.

For those of you who are interested in coming to the show later today or tomorrow, the ESL folks are also raffling off a $100 gift certificate to Alex's Place.

Bruce Kellogg (left), Pete Rickert (center) and Ed Cornbau man a table on behalf of the Conesus Lake Riders Motorcycle Club.

Sean Lamore and Sara Holman, of the Ithaca-based "Peace, Love and Rocks," made the Downs one of the many stops they take as they travel the state selling various common and lesser known types of rock.

One of the more obscure items in their eclectic collection is Shiva Lingam (pictured below), which comes from the Normada River in India.

This piece was advertised at the Bath Fitter table.

Attendees entered two separate drawings for two chances to win a free dollhouse.

Cheryl Snead showcased her signature "brings" (bracelets with rings attached) and barefoot sandals. She was there to promote Happi Feet & Happi Hands, a Rochester-based company. The proceeds of her sales help to benefit a young man she knows who will soon be going to Haiti on a mission trip.

Melissa Martin handed out information on New Directions Youth & Family Services

Shanna Carmer of Everdry Waterproofing (located in Gates) gave people information and the opportunity to enter to win a free $200 gift card for Michael's or Jo-Ann Fabrics & Crafts.

Jonathan Yawbshowed what Cheri's Gift Shop in Rochester had to offer.

Marshall Cranmer held out one of his cinnamon-scented beeswax pinecones for a customer to smell.

Cranmer came all the way from Butler, Penn., to advertise Beeswax Window Ornament's pinecones, which give off pleasant scents when the sun shines on them while hanging in the window.

"They stay strong for a good six to nine months," Cranmer said.

Phyllis Wagner from Mary Kay, with products for men and women.

Debbie Geisler, of Nanny Naturals Goat Milk Soap in Holley, holds up two of her products.

Bob and Jane Graham, of Bob and Jane's Place, in Boston, pose with their fudge samples (try the peanut butter fudge -- it's outstanding).

Independent Chocolatier Mary Pionessa, of Dove Chocolate, does home chocolate parties for a living. At the craft and gift show, she took orders for "Sweet" Christmas gift ideas under $20.

There were many other vendors' tables, too. This event is free and open to the public. It lasts until 5 this afternoon, and then from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. tomorrow.

Town of Le Roy employee accused of taking money from public and keeping it

By Howard B. Owens

A Town of Le Roy employee working at the transfer station on Circular Hill Road is being accused of taking money from people bringing in garbage and keeping the cash for herself.

Arrested was 52-year-old Dawn Joy Mancuso, of York Road, Le Roy. She is charged with petit larceny and official misconduct.

After receiving numerous complaints about Mancuso taking money, Deputy Ron Meides, dressed in civilian clothes, began a process of dumping garbage at the transfer facility and getting his dump card punched. On the last week, when Meides was low on available punches on his dump card, Meides said Mancuso allegedly took $10 from him and never turned the cash over to the Town of Le Roy.

Meides alleges in his report that Mancuso has been regularly taking cash from transfer station patrons who did not have enough punches on their cards to drop off garbage.

Mancuso allegedly never turned any of this money over to the town.

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