Press Release:

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) announced the launch of the 2025 Congressional Art Competition. The Congressional Art Competition is open to high school students who reside in New York’s 24th Congressional District.

Since 1982, the Congressional Art Competition has been held each spring to celebrate the talents of young artists across the country. Rep. Tenney welcomes students from the 24th Congressional District to take part in this tradition. Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of experts from NY-24, and the winning artwork will be displayed in the United States Capitol for one year.

In 2024, Tenney’s office received over 30 submissions from high schoolers across New York's 24th Congressional District.

Acceptable mediums include:

• Paintings: oil, acrylics, watercolor, etc.
• Drawings: colored pencil, pencil, ink, marker, pastels, charcoal
• Collages (must be two-dimensional)
• Prints: lithographs, silkscreen, block prints
• Mixed Media: use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolor
• Computer-generated art
• Photographs

All submissions must be delivered to one of Tenney's district offices beginning April 14 and ending April 18. All necessary paperwork must be attached to the students’ artwork.

Please set up a time to drop off artwork at one of the following locations:

• Lockport District Office - 169 Niagara Street, Lockport, Phone 716-514-5130
• Canandaigua District Office - 2375 Rochester Road, Suite 250, Canandaigua, Phone 585-869-2060
• Oswego District Office - 46 E Bridge Street, Suite 102, Oswego, Phone - 315-236-7088

For more information, visit Tenney’s website at https://tenney.house.gov/services/art-competition.

Press release:

After announcing Edwards Vacuum’s plans to build a manufacturing facility in Western New York two years ago, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today announced Edwards Vacuum and the U.S. Department of Commerce had finalized its CHIPS award of $18 million from his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law. 

Schumer explained this would lock in the federal funding Edwards Vacuum needs for plans to build its new $300+ million dry pump manufacturing facility for the semiconductor industry, the first of its kind in the country, as there is currently no domestic production of semiconductor-grade dry vacuum pumps.

“Edwards Vacuum’s $18 million CHIPS award is locked in. This finalized federal investment will help ensure NY’s semiconductor supply chain is made right here in Genesee County,” said Senator Schumer. “The signed CHIPS award is a major step forward for this $300 million, 600 job project that will be a pivotal stop on America’s semiconductor superhighway. All the major semiconductor companies in New York and across America need this vacuum technology for their chip fabs, that only Edwards will make in the USA. It is a prime example of why our region is growing as the nation’s semiconductor ‘Tech Hub.’ With the funding from my bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law now signed and sealed, Edwards Vacuum’s growth in Western NY can continue knowing the funding will be secured for them to tap no matter the administration. This is a win-win-win: for Genesee County, for Upstate NY, and America.”

This federal funding will support a planned $300+ million investment and 600 good-paying jobs when the facility reaches full production capacity. Schumer explained all chip fabs need vacuum technology, such as that produced by Edwards, to power the sophisticated equipment and state-of-the-art machine tools needed to make microchips. Those tools use vacuum pumps, like those that will now be made in Western New York, to manipulate the chip wafers and control industrial gasses needed to manufacture the finished microchips. By bringing manufacturing to New York, new chip fabs such as Micron and GlobalFoundries in New York and Intel in Ohio can have access to critical dry pumps that will now be made in the U.S., offering chip producers shorter wait times, improved responsiveness, lower risks of supply chain disruptions, and reduced CO2 emissions from an American-made product. 

The U.S. Department of Commerce will disburse funds in the coming years as Edwards Vacuum meets project milestones agreed to in the final award.

Schumer has been a relentless champion for expanding the semiconductor supply chain in Western NY. Schumer personally called Geert Follens, who was then President of the Vacuum Technique Business Area for Edwards parent company Atlas Copco Group, to urge the global semiconductor supply chain company to expand in Upstate New York. Later that year Schumer announced with Governor Hochul that Edwards Vacuum had heeded their calls and planned to build their new manufacturing facility in Genesee County. Last year, Schumer celebrated Edwards Vacuum’s groundbreaking ceremony in Genesee County for Phase 1 of their construction, which is expected to be completed in 2028.

Schumer also helped the Buffalo-Rochester-Syracuse region win the prestigious Tech Hub designation to support the buildout of the semiconductor supply chain in Upstate NY through his bipartisan CHIPS & Science Law and last year secured a major $40 million investment to implement the Tech Hub’s work with companies like Edwards. The proposal, called the “NY SMART I-Corridor Tech Hub” has built on the historic investments Schumer delivered that have spurred a boom in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation across Upstate NY. Edwards Vacuum is working with Genesee Community College and Tech Hub partners like Monroe Community College, Erie Community College, and the Northland Workforce Training Center to help them hire and train hundreds of new workers.

“The Empire State is becoming a national leader in advanced manufacturing because of the investments New York has made in this industry and the extraordinary help of President Biden. New York State has the talent, infrastructure and innovation to continue on this trajectory and the best is yet to come. My 2025 State of the State includes new initiatives to grow this critical industry, and we’ll continue doing everything in our power to great jobs and boost economic growth,” said Governor Kathy Hochul.

In a series of seven steps, successful downtown business owner Matt Gray scooped up the former JC Penney’s department store in a fairly quick auction Thursday morning at the Genesee County Courts Facility.

Gray purchased the property for $175,000, bidding against the bank and Bill Baskin, who stepped in toward the end with a bid of $150,000.

The property has been vacant since Penney’s closed in the fall of 2020 and was purchased by a California developer in February 2021 for $500,000. He defaulted on payments, and the property was put up for mortgage foreclosure by the out-of-state lending bank.

Gray said he has no definite plans but said that he likes a vibrant downtown with a mix of commercial and housing options.

Oakfield-Alabama's 12-point fourth quarter, compared to just six points for Byron-Bergen, helped the Hornets to a narrow victory in Boys Basketball on Wednesday.

The Hornets were up 44-42 at the closing buzzer.

Stats for O-A:

• Avery Watterson, 13 points, 7 rebounds
• Jack Cianfrini, 8 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 4 steals (Had the go ahead basket with 40 seconds left in the game.)
• Brady Williams, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal
• Carson Warner, 8 rebounds, 2 steals

For B-B:

• Andre White, 14 points
• Noah Clare, 11 points
• Cole DiQuattro, 9 points

O-A coach Ryan Stehlar said, "The team had to dig deep tonight multiple times during a tough battle. Coach Roxanne Noeth is a great coach, and her team plays hard. We had to try and match their intensity. We were fortunate to get big stops and make key plays to get the win. I’m proud of the guys for stepping up tonight when called on."

Photos by Jennifer DiQuattro.

Photographer Destin Danser captured these images on Wednesday morning of the new Oxbo plant under construction in Apple Tree Acres in Bergen.

Previously:

• Oxbo planning move from Byron to new 195,000-square-foot facility in Bergen
• International company with roots in Genesee County celebrates next stage of growth in Bergen

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce welcomed Ashley Mooney, DDS, as one of the newest businesses to open locally on Wednesday.

Mooney's new office is at 214 East Main St., Suite #1, Batavia.

Photo by Marc Tillery/WBTA

Press Release:

The Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming (GOW) County Health Departments and Hospitals are working together with community partners to gather information from residents to help with public health planning for the next six years. 

This information will help inform and guide the development of documents called the Community Health Assessment (CHA), Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP), and the Community Services Plan (CSP). This process is part of the New York State Prevention Agenda, a plan for state and local action to improve the health and well-being of New Yorkers.

“The health departments are working to identify the health challenges, service gaps, and other factors that may impact the communities’ health status,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “The input from our residents will help to identify community health needs, which will play a crucial role in developing the upcoming plan.” 

In 2022, the community survey and conversations helped inform some of the initiatives that local health departments, hospitals and partners focused on: 

• Promote Well-Being and Prevent Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
  • Prevent opioid overdose deaths
  • Prevent and address adverse childhood experiences
• Prevent Chronic Diseases
  • Prevent initiation of tobacco use
  • Increase cancer screening rates
  • Improve self-management skills for individuals with chronic diseases

To assess the health status of our communities, we are inviting community members to participate in an anonymous survey. The survey can be completed online and will take approximately 15 minutes to complete. Paper copies of the survey will also be available at many locations in each county. 

You can access the survey by visiting the following links:

• English: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GOWCHA2025
• Spanish (Espanola): https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GOWCHA2025Espanol

The health departments are arranging Community Conversations with interested groups to gather insights into the most pressing health concerns or issues in their community. These conversations aim to gather ideas on how to address the identified health concerns.

“Our hope is people in our communities will share their ideas on health and wellness, including obstacles they face,” stated Laura Paolucci, Wyoming County Health Department Public Health Administrator. “The more people who participate, the more inclusive these action plans can be.”

To participate in a community conversation, obtain copies of the survey or if you have any questions, please contact your local health department:

• Genesee County Health Department at: 585-344-2580 ext. 5555, visit their website at GOHealthNY.org or visit Facebook, Instagram and X at GOHealthNY. 
• Orleans County Health Department at: 585-589-3278, visit their website at GOHealthNY.org or visit Facebook, Instagram and X at GOHealthNY.
• Wyoming County Health Department at: 585-789-8890, visit their website or Facebook.

Press Release:

Registration is now available for kindergarten and prekindergarten students in the Byron-Bergen School District.

The District plans to once again offer a half-day universal prekindergarten (UPK) program at the Byron-Bergen Elementary School. The UPK program is focused on socialization, learning through play, and self-exploration. Children learn through a hands-on learning environment that includes activities, learning centers, concrete materials, and manipulatives. 

Students learn through a nurturing environment that is enriching, challenging, and developmentally appropriate. 

Students must turn four years of age by December 1, 2025 to be eligible for the program. If you have a child eligible and are interested in having them attend the Byron-Bergen UPK program, please complete this Google form which is also available on the Student Registration page of the Byron-Bergen website. 

The form requires the student’s name, parents’ name, address, phone number, email address, and date of birth. This electronic Google form is due by Monday, February 24. Parents who have already contacted the Elementary School by phone will still need to complete the form. If you are having difficulty completing the form, please call the Elementary School office for support.

Please note that if the District receives more applications than the allowed capacity, a lottery will be held to select students. This year's lottery drawing will be held on February 28, via Zoom. 

Student-specific lottery numbers and the Zoom link will be shared with everyone who completes the form before the February 24 deadline. Once the lottery is complete, the families of selected children will need to complete the full registration packet, which can be found on the Byron-Bergen website and submit it to the Elementary School Office.

Children who will be five years of age, on or before December 1, 2025 are eligible for entrance to Kindergarten in September of 2025. New families in the school district should notify the school if they have a child who will enter Kindergarten in September of 2025. Parents may contact the Byron-Bergen Elementary School Office by calling 494-1220, ext. 1301. Information may also be sent to the Byron-Bergen Elementary School, 6971 West Bergen Road, Bergen.

Please send all information for kindergarten screening by June 1, 2025. All children registered for kindergarten will be scheduled for a screening appointment this summer. The results of this screening will be used to plan for the 2025-2026 kindergarten program. 

The following items are necessary to complete the registration process: the child’s birth certificate; certificate of immunization; proof of residency; and completed registration packet.

Additional information and registration packets are available at http://www.bbschools.org/StudentRegistration.aspx.

Press Release:

The HomeCare & Hospice Foundation has unveiled its 2025 event lineup, offering engaging activities throughout Allegany, Cattaraugus, Genesee, and Wyoming counties. 

“We’ve thoughtfully planned events to cater to both the ‘north’ and ‘south’ regions, with many centered in the Olean and Batavia areas,” said Melissa Sullivan, CEO of Total Senior Care and HomeCare & Hospice. 

The year kicks off on February 23 with the enchanting Princess Party, tentatively planned at Bartlett Country Club in Olean. Little ones can enjoy a royal day filled with nail and hair makeovers, princess dance lessons, crown crafting, and a delightful lunch fit for royalty. Next, bring home a touch of spring with the Hospice Bouquet Sale in early March, offering beautiful flower arrangements to brighten your home while supporting compassionate care.

New to the lineup, the Superhero Bash on Sunday, March 30 at Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia promises action-packed fun for kids, including cape and shield crafting, obstacle courses, and superhero freeze dance, with snacks to keep young heroes energized. 

May features two impactful events: the Hospice Hope Walk, Ride, Run Together at Lincoln Park in Olean on May 21, where participants of all ages can honor loved ones and support hospice care; and the Senior Health & Wellness Fair on May 28 at Total Senior Care in Olean, offering free health screenings, a blood drive, and more.

Golf enthusiasts can tee off for a cause at the inaugural Hospice Golf Classic on June 24 at Terry Hills in Batavia, while craft lovers can enjoy the Autumn Artisan Market & Craft Show on October 4 at Total Senior Care in Olean.

Tailgate Thursday, a fan-favorite event, returns on October 9 at Batavia Downs, combining wings, football fun, and games to support hospice care. The year concludes with the cherished Tree of Life Celebrations in November and December, held in both Batavia and Olean. These ceremonies honor and remember loved ones through candlelight, music, and personalized ornaments placed on a holiday tree. 

“The HomeCare & Hospice Foundation is committed to supporting the vital work of HomeCare & Hospice through philanthropy and community engagement,” said Melissa Sullivan. “We’re excited to bring these events to life and look forward to connecting with our communities.” 

The Foundation also offers businesses the opportunity to join the Hospice Heroes Program, gaining valuable exposure while making a meaningful impact through sponsorships or in-kind support.

For event details, sponsorship opportunities, or registration forms, visit www.homecare-hospice.org or call 716-372-2106. Mark your calendars and join us for a year filled with fun and purpose! 

Reflecting on 2024, we have so much to celebrate.

Along with outstanding attendance at local workforce programs, our Buffalo Bills are heading back to the playoffs and the Pro Bowl voters agree with me that Josh Allen is the best quarterback in the NFL.

Similar to our workforce programs, the Buffalo Bills prioritize player development, recognizing that individual growth is key to program success. In preparing the next generation of workforce candidates, we are also strengthening our communities.

Last year, we welcomed over 4,300 students to workforce development programs including GLOW With Your Hands Manufacturing and Healthcare, Tech Wars, youth apprenticeships and pre-apprenticeships, and other programs that have introduced careers and skills available to our local youth.

As a result of these programs and instruction, thousands of our students are now well-informed and educated about the opportunities available to them as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.

By engaging in hands-on training and real-world experiences, these students gained valuable skills and information that make them work-ready and prepared for the high-demand careers in Genesee County and across our region.

If you were one of our 4,300 active students, I want you to celebrate - and then get back to what makes you the next successful professional to graduate from these programs. 

For parents, whether your student participated in these programs or not, I encourage you to make it your New Year’s resolution to get involved. Keep your child engaged in programs they are participating in. Let them know there are programs and alternative career paths that do not require a four-year college degree.

Our New Year’s Resolutions are meant to push us out of our comfort zones. Attending a workforce development event may feel like it is, but I can promise you that you will feel welcome and learn something new outside of the traditional classroom. 

Our partners offer programs for every type of student, regardless of how far along you’ve gone in your workforce journey; from introductory programs like GLOW With Your Hands to apprenticeship pathways that put you on a fast track to a local career through Genesee Valley BOCES.

If you’re interested, there’s still time to enroll in one of our workforce development programs, which successfully link students to in-demand careers right out of school. Our previous graduates are now on track to make $1 million in their first 12 years after graduation! 

Our current BOCES students will soon be enrolled in the Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship. They eagerly waiting to learn which companies they will be matched up with for junior year job shadows or senior year co-ops.

In an NFL draft-style format, students will be featured as first-round draft picks celebrating with their companies as they embark on a professional career entering the ranks as a top prospect.

This year’s signing day will be held at Genesee Community College on January 30. The good news is there is still time to sign up for additional opportunities, even if you aren’t enrolled at BOCES! We can put you on a fast track with a local company in a career that allows you to grow and immediate placement after graduation, starting your career debt-free and
workforce ready. 

To learn more or sign up for the Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program or any other local workforce opportunities, contact me at 585-343-4866 or csuozzi@gcedc.com or www.gcedc.com/careerchecklist.

Go Bills!

Chris Suozzi is the Vice President of Business &Workforce Development at the Genesee County Economic Development Center.

Press Release:

Two projects in the City of Batavia submitted to the Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) are projected to generate over $7 million in local benefits.

The GCEDC board of directors will consider initial resolutions for Graham Corporation’s expansion project and 202 Oak St, LLC’s hotel renovation at its January 16 meeting.

Graham Corporation is proposing to construct a new radiographic testing building at their manufacturing facility. The $3.3 million investment will add to an existing manufacturing building.

Graham Corporation is requesting a sales tax exemption estimated at $120,000 and a property tax abatement estimated at $20,934 based on the incremental increase in assessed value generated by the expansion. The project is estimated to generate $1.2 million in local fiscal impacts, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $16 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.

202 Oak St, LLC is proposing to renovate the former Super 8 hotel’s 54 units. The $2.5 million investment would create 11.5 new full-time equivalent positions.

202 Oak St, LLC is requesting a sales tax exemption estimated at $104,163, a property tax abatement estimated at $257,823 based on the incremental increase in assessed value generated by the project, and a mortgage tax exemption estimated at $19,000. The project is estimated to generate $5.8 million in local fiscal impacts, including payroll and tax revenues, for an estimated $20 local benefit for every $1 of requested incentives.

In addition, the project is estimated to generate over $40,000 annually in bed tax revenue for the county once the renovated hotel is ramped up.

The GCEDC board meeting will be on Thursday, January 16 at 4 p.m. at the MedTech Center’s Innovation Zone, 99 MedTech Drive, Batavia.

Meeting materials and links to a live stream/on-demand recording of the meeting are available at www.gcedc.com.

A site on the edge of Oatka Creek in Le Roy that has served as a hat factory, bank and law offices, a state senator’s home and most recently the painstakingly revamped Farmer’s Creekside Tavern and Inn will be shutting its doors for good, the owners announced Wednesday.

“After seven wonderful years, we've made the very difficult decision to permanently close the doors of Farmer's Creekside Tavern & Inn. It has been an incredible journey filled with gratitude for the privilege of serving the Le Roy community and surrounding areas,” an online post stated. “This decision was not made lightly and came after much review, thought, and consideration. However, due to challenges currently impacting the restaurant industry and small businesses, we feel it is the right decision.

“We are so grateful for the love and support vou've shared with us throughout this journey - from the initial restoration of the over 200-year-old beautiful building to the landmark it remains today.”

That restoration was a 10-year labor of love after fire destroyed much of the historic building in 2004 and Bill Farmer and his son purchased the property in 2007. The charming stone, multi-level restaurant, with outdoor patio and seasonal igloo dining along the water, opened in July 2017.

“Your trust and loyalty have been the foundation of everything we've built, and we'll forever appreciate the moments we've shared,” the post states. “As we close, we want to give a heartfelt thank you to every guest, supporter, and team member who made these seven years unforgettable. Thank you for being a part of this venture and for your unwavering support. 

“Though it's the closure of our much-loved restaurant and inn, the memories will be with us forever.”

Those of you that have gift cards are asked to please contact gm@farmerscreekside.com,  and for those of you that have dinner, hotel, or igloo reservations, someone will be reaching out to you directly.

Oakfield-Alabama beat Byron-Bergen in Girls Basketball on Tuesday 50-46.

For the Hornets:

• Alea Groff, 16  points, 3 steals
• Allie Williams, 12 points, 12 rebounds, 3 blocks
• Allison Harkness, 10 points, 6 rebounds 2 blocks 
• Alexa Clark, 5 points, 13 reb
• Jess Sosnowksi, 4 points
• Piper Hyde, 2 points, 6 assists

For the Bees:

• Janessa Amesbury. 22 points
• Olivia Senf, 11 points
• Riley Shallenverger, 8 points

"A great high school basketball game between two very good teams playing at a high level," said OA Coach Jeff Schlagenhauf. "Rick (Krzewinski) always has his teams ready to play. They are so well-coached. It was a great win for our kids against a very good basketball team.

"Our defense really stepped up in the fourth quarter," he added. "We got some great contributions from Alexa Clark and Allison Harkness and Alea Groff. Allie Williams had a huge offensive fourth quarter for us."

Elba beat Pembroke on Tuesday in Girls Basketball 66-33.

For the Lancers, Sydney Reilly scored 23 points, and Lydia Ross scored 19.

Photos by Debra Reilly.

Notre Dame improved to 7-4 on Tuesday with a 53-33 win over Kendall in Girls Basketball.

Sofia Falleti led the Irish with a 30-point and 15-rebound double-double while adding four steals. Also contributing was Shirley Thompson with 9 points and 7 rebounds and Lucia Fiorentino with 4 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 steals. 

“This was a good bounce-back game for us. Everyone contributed both on offense and defense tonight. The team really worked well against a solid Kendall defense,” said Coach Vinny Falleti

During the first city meeting of the New Year, Manager Rachael Tabelski threw down a gauntlet of sorts about the impending budget before the usual departmental requests and line-by-line reviews by City Council.

“We’re looking to lower the rate by 50 cents,” she said at this week’s council meeting, clarifying that it’s 50 cents per $1,000 assessed value.

If council follows through with that recommendation, with no changes to property assessments, the tax rate would go from $8.96 to $8.46 per $1,000 assessed value, or $846 a year. That would be a $50 yearly decrease from the current tax rate at the same property valuation.  

There are five budget sessions lined up before council is to adopt a final version, and a public hearing will be scheduled for questions and comments from city residents. 

City leaders agreed to alter the meeting schedule so that when there are both council and budget meetings on the same dates, the council meeting will be at 5 p.m., followed by a budget session at 6 p.m.

The schedule is as follows:

• City Council meeting at 5 p.m., followed by budget revenue discussion at 6 p.m. Jan. 27
• Budget work session at 6 p.m. Feb. 4 to discuss fire, general government and administrative
• Budget work session at 6 p.m. Feb. 6 to discuss police and DPW
• City Council at 5 p.m., followed by budget work session at 6 p.m. Feb. 10 to discuss water and wastewater
• Budget work session at 6 p.m. Feb 13 if needed

Once again the question of residency — and of fairness — in the city of Batavia has come up as another employee has requested a waiver from the municipality’s code requiring that people in certain positions live in city bounds.

This issue has affected several police, fire, inspection, and administrative management positions over the years. 

Perhaps city leaders need to consider widening the circle of that residence boundary, City Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. says.

“I mean, if the person shows up to work on time, why would we tell them where they have to live? If they’re responsible and they’ve got to drive an hour, that’s their life. That’s what they choose to do. People drive,” Jankowski said during this week’s council meeting while reviewing the latest request. “So we address it as any other employee. If they’re late for work and we gotta address it, that’s a different story. I have no problem with living wherever you want, within a reasonable distance. It’s something we should be considering, I think we are. So we need to move that forward and get it figured out.”

The dilemma this time is that city police officer Matthew Smith said that he is unable to relocate from his current home outside of the city because “given the very high interest rates and market price for housing at this time, it would be a financial burden on my wife and I to try and make a move.” His wife also received a promotion recently, which requires her to travel to other locations, and their current residence is more conducive to that, Smith said in a letter to Chief Shawn Heubusch.

Heubusch vouched for his officer’s work ethic and for being “very, very dedicated” to the job since being employed with the city police department in July of 2023. He has shown nothing but “an exemplary work history” and “is always available when called for extra details,” Heubusch said in his official request from City Manager Rachael Tabelski.

Batavia Municipal Code section 22-9 (1) requires residency for current police officers. The department has been working on a plan for how to deal with these situations, which Heubusch said have been more frequent issues as candidates have taken the civil service exam for vacancies. 

“As we discussed in November, the city's department has been working on a residency plan to better meet the city's hiring needs that will be presented to council in the future,” Tabelski said.

Jankowski suggested that maybe the city could offer incentives to prospective employees to move here “instead of demanding they do based on a residency requirement.”

“Keeping in mind we just have to be a little more flexible and understanding of this,” he said. 

Another whole issue, beyond the difficulty of uprooting one’s life and moving and the higher interest rates and housing costs, is that there are fewer homes available, officials said. Assistant City Manager Erik Fix said that he went online to Nothnagle Realty and found only 10 to 12 houses for sale in the city at the time. 

Tabelski was optimistic about projects in the works. 

“Hopefully, through all the initiatives we have in single-family housing at North Pointe Drive, we’ll be able to add some residents to the tax base and give those employees that want to be in the city a better option to be here.”

During a business meeting that followed, council approved the residency waiver for Smith.

Latoya Denise Jackson, 39, of State Street, is charged with resisting arrest, two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, driving with a suspended v vehicle registration, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, and driving without insurance. Jackson was stopped at 4:48 a.m. on Washington Avenue, Batavia, by Deputy Richard Flores. Jackson was allegedly found in possession of two different controlled substances, and she resisted arrest. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Rachelle Nicole Laney, 38, of River Road Xing, Pavilion, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd, driving too slow, and equipment violation. Laney was stopped at 11:48 p.m. on Dec. 31 on Roanoke Road, Stafford, by Deputy Andrew Mullen. She was issued appearance tickets.

Kenneth Richard Sheard, 45, of South Lake Road, Bergen, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and harassment. Sheard is accused of striking a person under the age of 17 at 8:37 p.m. on Jan. 1 at a location on South Lake Road, Bergen. Sheard was held pending arraignment.

David Ryan Paddock, 25, of Myrtle Street, Le Roy, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, unregistered vehicle, speed not reasonable and prudent, and moving from lane unsafely. Paddock was reportedly involved in a property damage accident at 7:18 p.m. on Dec. 21 at a location on Warsaw Road, Le Roy and charged following an investigation by Deputy Stephen Smith. Paddock was issued traffic tickets.

Vincent James Auguliaro, 34, of Maple Street, Corfu, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and speeding. Auguliaro was stopped at 12:21 a.m. on Jan. 3 on West Main Street, Corfu, by Deputy Stephen Smith. Auguliaro was issued traffic tickets.

Tyler James Bull, 22, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Bull is accused of violating an order of protection by calling another person 142 times. He was arrested at the Genesee County Jail and released back into jail custody.

Nicholas Adam Pietrzykowski, 48, of East Road, Wyoming, is charged with felony DWI, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle, and moving from lane unsafely. Pietrzykowski is accused of being involved in a property damage accident at 2:50 p.m. on Jan. 5 on Galloway Road and fleeing into the woods. He was taken into custody by Deputy James Stack and K-9 Rayzor. He was held pending arraignment.

Nicholas Dean Kersch, 29, of Wyoming Street, Warsaw, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, speeding, and moving from lane unsafely. Kersch was stopped at 2:21 a.m. on Jan. 5 on Lake Street, Le Roy by Deputy Zachary Hoy. Kersch was issued traffic tickets.

Hugh Michael Rohrer, 22, of Brandford Place, Buffalo, is charged with DWI, driving left of the pavement, and moving from lane unsafely. Rohrer was reportedly involved in a two-vehicle accident at 5:56 a.m. on Jan. 1 on Alleghany Road, Alabama and was charged following an investigation by Deputy Jacob Kipler.

Adrian Joseph Aughenbaugh, 27, of Columbia Avenue, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Aughenbaugh was reportedly a passenger in a vehicle stopped at 12:41 a.m. on Jan. 6 on Buffalo Road, Bergen. A search allegedly located a controlled substance. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Jared Ryan Burns, no age provided, no residence provided, is charged with obstruction governmental administration 2nd, trespass, and disorderly conduct. Burns is accused of remaining at the Department of Social Services on East Main Street Road, Batavia, at 11:43 a.m. on Dec. 30. Burns was allegedly uncooperative and attempted to prevent deputies from removing him. He was jailed pending arraignment.

Travis David Gassman, 30, of Perry Road, Pavilion, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and moving from lane unsafely. Gassman was stopped at 6:38 p.m. on Jan. 11 on Perry Road, Pavilion, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. He was issued traffic tickets.

William Edward Farnsworth, 40, of Eagle Harbor Road, Barre, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, speeding, and unlicensed driver. Farnsworth was arrested on Jan. 10. He was accused of possessing cocaine during a traffic stop by Deputy Zachary Hoy at 3:24 p.m. on March 30 on Buffalo Road, Bergen. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Feyza Gabriel Osmacikli, no age provided, of Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th.  Osmacikli is accused of possessing a narcotic during a traffic stop by Deputy Jeremiah Gechell at 10:20 p.m. on Jan. 4 on Oak Street, Batavia. Osmacikli was released on an appearance ticket.

Jose Reyes Ramirez-Perez, 29, of Malone, is charged with DWI, refusal to take a breath test, speeding, and drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle. Ramirez-Perez was stopped at 2:05 a.m. on Jan. 12 on West Main Street, Batavia, by Deputy Soren Calderon. He was issued traffic tickets.

Claudie Vern Goodenow, Jr., 42, of Prospect Street, Attica, is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation with five or more suspensions, criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, lights not to standards, and no inspection sticker. Goodenow was stopped at 2:29 a.m. on Jan. 10 on Broadway Road, Bethany, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Goodenow was issued an appearance ticket.

Jessica Lynn Goodenow, 43, of Prospect Street, Attica, is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Goodenow was reportedly a passenger in a vehicle stopped at 2:29 a.m. on Jan. 10 on Broadway Road, Bethany. A search allegedly located controlled substances in the vehicle. Goodenow was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Salvatore Michael Schwable, 27, of Oakfield, is charged with possession of a forged instrument 1st and two counts of petit larceny. Schwable is accused of using counterfeit currency to purchase merchandise from a gas station on South Main Street, Oakfield at 10:58 p.m. on Nov. 28. He was arrested Jan. 13 following an investigation by Deputy Soren Calderon. He was held pending arraignment.

Warren Thomas Cotton, 47, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with promoting prison contraband 2nd. Cotton is accused of possessing homemade alcohol under the bunk of his bed at the Genesee County Jail at 7 a.m. on Jan. 14. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Cori L Cleland, 39, of Perry, is charged with DWAI drugs. Cleland was arrested Jan. 1 in connection with a vehicle accident reported in Septermber. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Davor E. Hodgson-Aguilar, 36, of Long Beach, was arrested on Jan. 8 on a warrant. Hodgson-Aguilar was initially charged with petit larceny in October of 2023. The warrant was issued for alleged failure to appear in court. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Julie L. Dutton, 29, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Dutton was allegedly involved in a fight on Jan. 2 where she grabbed and shoved another person. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Antwoine D. Lara, 28, of Endicott, was arrested on Jan. 5 as a fugitive from justice. Lara was taken into custody when Batavia PD responded to an incident on Liberty Street. During the investigations, police determined there was a warrant for her arrest issued in Pennsylvania. She was jailed pending extradition.

Zachary R. Whitehead, 31, of Batavia, is charged with criminal impersonation and multiple traffic violations. Whitehead was stopped by Batavia PD on Oct. 8 and allegedly provided officers with another person's name. He was arrested Jan. 5 and issued an appearance ticket.

Brant G. Matthews, 30, of Greece, was arrested on Jan. 3, on a warrant. The warrant stems from a traffic stop on Jan. 18, 2024. He was allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Hunter M. Court, 25, of Alexander, is charged with DWI. Court was stopped on Dec. 24 on Court Street. He was issued traffic tickets.

Maresa A. Lodowski, 20, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Lodowski is accused of shoplifting from Dollar General on Dec. 29. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Press Release:

Confirmation candidates, along with their families and sponsors, pledged their collective commitments to their Confirmation journey at St Joseph’s Church at 10 a.m. Mass on January 12.

Thank you to Father Pat O’Keefe for his support, who presided at the Mass and offered spiritual guidance.

May God bless our candidates as they continue their faith journey.

Submitted photos.