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Photos: Heavy snow fell on Alexander

By Staff Writer
alexander snow
A truck is stuck in the snow on Sandpit Road, Alexander.
Photo by Philip Casper.
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Traffic on Route 20 was blocked for a time by a state trooper and a sheriff's deputy.
Photo by Philip Casper.
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Tractor-trailers at times found Route 20 impassible, including FedEx trucks parked near Gilate Road.
Photo by Philip Casper.
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Snowmobilers fueling up at the Alexander Country Deli.
Photo by Philip Casper.
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Snow plowing at Alexander Central School
Photo by Philip Casper.
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The village of Alexander Department of Public Works had workers out clearing sidewalks.
Photo by Philip Casper.

New AI curriculum launched to prepare students with ‘essential skills’

By Press Release

Press Release:

The School Library Systems Association of New York, in collaboration with leading experts in education and artificial intelligence, has announced the launch of a groundbreaking AI Scope and Sequence. Developed as part of the LibraryReady.AI project, with funding from the Allison-Rosen Foundation, this resource provides a dynamic framework for educators to guide PreK-12 students in understanding and engaging with artificial intelligence technologies.

As artificial intelligence continues to transform the world, this curriculum aims to empower students with essential skills in AI literacy, critical thinking, and information seeking practices. It outlines a comprehensive approach across four core strands: Why AI, How AI Works, AI in Society, and AI in Practice. These themes integrate computer science, media literacy, and information fluency, providing a broader approach to the topic. The learning concepts are aligned with New York State educational standards in computer science and library skills. Priority concepts for each grade band offer a way for schools to start exploring AI in the classroom or school library.  

Dr. Natalie Bazarova, a project advisor and AI expert from Cornell University, highlights the importance of the initiative:
"As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it is essential for students to understand how it works, its societal impacts, and how to use AI tools safely and responsibly. These technologies are now a part of our everyday lives, making it important to learn about AI in the context of real-world applications. New tools present both risks and opportunities, and combining AI literacy with critical thinking and information literacy will empower young people to be more adept at using AI technologies in mindful and productive ways."

Curriculum Highlights:

  • Grade-Specific Concepts: Each grade band, from PreK to high school, explores AI through age-appropriate topics, ranging from recognizing smart tools to critically assessing algorithmic bias.
  • Ethical Exploration: Students examine key issues, including data privacy, safety, and AI's impact on the workforce and environment.
  • Real-World Applications: Lessons connect AI learning to tangible examples like chatbots, recommendation systems, and self-driving cars, making abstract concepts relatable.
  • Future-Focused Learning: Students are encouraged to imagine and evaluate the possible uses of AI, fostering creativity and innovation.

The curriculum's development was made possible in part by the Allison-Rosen Foundation and driven by an interdisciplinary team of educators and AI specialists, including Dr. Bazarova and Dr. Qian Yang of Cornell University. 

Project Lead Dr. Christopher Harris, Director of the School Library System for Genesee Valley BOCES, emphasized the program’s transformative potential, stating "This initiative equips educators and librarians with the tools they need to introduce AI literacy effectively. By providing students with the skills to navigate an AI-driven world, we are preparing the next generation to be informed and ethical digital citizens. It is important that schools teach not just with AI, but about AI. We cannot abdicate our responsibility to prepare students for an AI-driven future."

Democratic Committee responds to developments in Syria: ‘a powerful reminder to dictators’

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee County Democratic Committee expresses its deep concern and steadfast commitment to supporting the people of Syria in light of the recent developments surrounding the regime of Bashar al-Assad. As we witness the potential for change in a nation long oppressed by dictatorship, we are reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the necessity for democratic values to triumph over tyranny. 

The downfall of authoritarian leaders like Assad serves as a powerful reminder to dictators and would-be tyrants across the globe: the will of the people cannot be silenced indefinitely. The cries for freedom, justice, and democracy resonate far beyond borders. It is essential for global leaders to acknowledge this pivotal moment in history—oppression may provide a fleeting illusion of control, but ultimately, it gives rise to resistance and unrest. 

As Americans, we have a responsibility to be champions for freedom, both at home and abroad. Whether in Ukraine, Syria, or any nation where liberty is under threat, we must stand with people who are fighting for their fundamental rights. Our nation’s strength is rooted in its enduring commitment to democracy and human dignity, and that commitment must extend beyond our shores. 

In this critical moment, the incoming Trump administration’s hands-off policy toward Syria—shaped by concerning ties to Russia—raises alarming questions about America’s role on the global stage. Prioritizing relationships with authoritarian regimes over support for democratic movements sends a dangerous message: that the United States may turn a blind eye to oppression.

The Genesee County Democratic Committee calls on our leaders to embrace a principled foreign policy that prioritizes the values of freedom and human rights. The struggle for democracy in Syria is not an isolated issue; it is a global fight that demands our attention, advocacy, and action.

We stand in solidarity with the brave individuals in Syria who are risking everything to build a brighter future. Their courage reminds us that democracy is not merely an ideal—it is a shared responsibility. Together, we can help ensure a world where liberty, equality, and justice prevail over oppression and tyranny.

Genesee County Parks eliminates lottery process for pavilion reservations in 2025

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee County Parks Department is excited to announce updates to its reservation process for park shelters and pavilions at Genesee County Park and Forest and DeWitt Recreation Area.

The department launched an online reservation system last year and, with its success, has decided to discontinue the traditional mail-in lottery system. 

Starting January 1, park reservations for 2025 will open to the public. Visitors can reserve their preferred date and location online at https://bit.ly/GenCoParksReserve or in person via a paper form at the Genesee County Highway Department at 153 Cedar Street, Batavia.

Reservation Details:

  • Online Reservations: Visitors can use the online platform to secure their reservations quickly and conveniently.
  • In-Person Reservations: Reservations can be made in person at the Genesee County Highway Department at 153 Cedar Street, Batavia. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Eliminated Lottery System: Reservations will be confirmed immediately upon payment, simplifying the process.

“We are thrilled to provide both online and in-person reservation options for 2025,” said Timothy J. Hens, Genesee County Public Works Commissioner. “The elimination of the lottery system and the addition of these flexible options will make planning park visits easier and more efficient for everyone.”

For more information or assistance, please call 585-344-8508, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Bailey Groth appointed Superintendent of Water and Wastewater for City of Batavia

By Press Release

Press Release:

The City of Batavia is pleased to announce the appointment of Bailey Groth to the position of Superintendent of Water and Wastewater for the City of Batavia. Groth was selected following an extensive search for candidates. She will assume her new role on December 18, 2024. 

A Pembroke native, Groth holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Toxicology and Biology from Nazareth College. With a certification in Basic Environmental Health Programs from the University of Albany, School of Public Health.

Groth currently serves as an Environmental Analyst - Drinking Water Specialist with the New York State Department of Health facilitating and managing the development of municipal source water protection plans. She is a current Environmental Health board member for Yummies Ice Cream in Warsaw. 

Previously she served as an Environmental Health Specialist with the Genesee County Health Department where she managed drinking water enhancement program, she was accountable for overseeing the public water supplies operating in Genesee County and compliance with State Sanitary Code.

“Bailey brings a wealth of knowledge in water planning and regulation as well as environmental sciences that will be an asset to the Bureau of Water and Wastewater for years to come. She is a data driven professional with strategic management skills, and I look forward to working with her on numerous Water and Wastewater projects that the City is undertaking,” said Rachael J. Tabelski, City Manager.

“Bailey will be a valuable asset to the City! With her extensive work background and education, her skills will contribute significantly to various projects and initiatives, helping to foster growth and improve in the City. Bailey has a wonderful mix of interests! Enjoying the outdoors and hiking allows her to appreciate nature and stay active, while spending time with friends and family helps strengthen her relationships. Crafting is her great way to express creativity and unwind, and having a pet like Tuna the cat adds companionship and joy. Whether she's hitting the trails or getting crafty at home, Bailey has a lovely balance of activities,” said Tom Phelps Director of Public Works.

Genesee County welcomes Katie Stein as new appointed Deputy County Treasurer

By Press Release

Press Release:

stein-photo-for-press-release.jpg
Katie L. Stein
Submitted photo.

Genesee County is pleased to announce the appointment of Katie L. Stein as the new Deputy County Treasurer. A lifelong resident, Katie brings a wealth of experience and a strong educational background to the position.

Treasurer-elect Kevin Andrews expressed enthusiasm about Katie joining the team, stating, “I am excited to work with Katie as we continue to serve the residents of Genesee County with transparency and fiscal responsibility.”

Katie resides in Le Roy and has deep roots in the Genesee County community. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Hilbert College and a Master of Science in Forensic Accounting from The College at Brockport, which showcases her commitment to excellence and specialization in finance. 

With extensive experience in compliance and financial management, Katie’s background positions her to bring valuable expertise and leadership to the Treasurer’s Office. Genesee County is confident that her knowledge and commitment to the community will further strengthen the office’s mission of fiscal stewardship.

Katie will officially begin her role as Deputy County Treasurer in January 2025.

Rochester Regional Health offers 'Elf-mergency Care Center' to restore exhausted elves

By Press Release
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Submitted photo.

Press Release:

Has your family’s elf been looking a little too chill on the shelf lately? If you woke up to find your mischievous holiday helper hasn’t moved from their spot- or worse, skipped their nightly trip to the North Pole – fear not! Rochester Regional Health’s beloved Elf-mergency Care Center is open and ready to save the season. Rochester Regional Health is pleased to open the doors again this year for the health and well-being of your family’s exhausted elf.

From Snowdrift Sniffles to Glitter Lung, our expert team is equipped to handle every elf ailment with care. Whether your elf is suffering from an allergy to human contact or simply needs a little holiday TLC, we’ll get them back to their shenanigans in no time.

Here’s what you’ll get:

  • Doctor’s Note – Proof of a thorough elf checkup, because even magical beings need a paper trail.
  • Photo & Video Evidence – Visual reassurance of your elf’s recovery, including virtual visit footage that proves we’ve worked our North Pole magic.
  • Custom Care – Whether your elf needs a quick candy cane splint or a sprinkle of holiday cheer, we’ve got it covered.

And while the “Elf-mergency Care Center” specializes in elves, let’s not forget the humans in your house. If anyone in your family is feeling less-than-jolly this season, Rochester Regional Health offers plenty of care options—whether it’s in-office, at one of our urgent cares or online. You can find the right fit for your needs at rochesterregional.org/get-care-now.

GCC establishes Lucy and Otis Leach Endowed Scholarship for Pavilion High School graduates

By Press Release
leach_scholarship.jpg
Photo of Edward and Otis Leach with Justin Johnston and Dr. Craig Lamb, courtesy of GCC.

Press Release:

Genesee Community College is pleased to announce the establishment of the Lucy and Otis Leach Endowed Scholarship. The endowed scholarship is made possible through a generous $100,000 endowment created by Edward and Otis Leach to benefit students graduating from Pavilion High School and attending Genesee Community College.

The Lucy and Otis Leach Endowed Scholarship is named in recognition of the donors' deceased parents. Despite not being able to attend school beyond the elementary level, Lucy and Otis Leach were true believers in all levels of education. Edward and Otis Leach, in establishing this endowment, expressed their hope that it will serve as a source of genuine support and inspiration for generations of Pavilion High School students attending Genesee Community College.

The scholarship funds may be used for various educational expenses, including tuition, course materials, fees, residence life, and other costs associated with student success. This comprehensive support aims to alleviate financial barriers and allow students to focus on their studies and personal growth. Preference will be given to students demonstrating financial need.

"We are immensely grateful for the generosity of Edward and Otis Leach," said Dr. Craig Lamb, President of Genesee Community College. "This endowment will make a significant impact on the lives of students from Pavilion High School, enabling them to pursue their educational dreams at Genesee Community College."

The first scholarships from this endowment are expected to be awarded for the 2025-26 academic year. Eligible students will be able to apply through the college's standard scholarship application process. For more information about the Lucy and Otis Leach Endowed Scholarship or other scholarship opportunities at Genesee Community College, please visit https://www.genesee.edu/pay-for-college/financial-aid/scholarships/.

For more information, contact Vice President, Development, Admissions and External Affairs Justin Johnston at (585) 345-6809, or via email at jmjohnston@genesee.edu.

Photos: Batavia digs out of winter storm

By Steve Ognibene
Many locals outside today for snow removal at residences.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene

Residents throughout Batavia got busy this morning clearing paths and driveways following heavy snowfall in the early morning hours.

 

 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 A photo to the west on Main St. Batavia  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Jackson and Troy Briggs enjoy their day off of school sledding down South Jackson St. bridge, Batavia.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Jackson and Troy Briggs enjoy their day off of school sledding down South Jackson St. bridge, Batavia.  
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Smiles and fun in the snow by this young girl on her snowbank.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene
 Photo by Steve Ognibene

Grace Baptist to share ‘A Christmas Carol’ Friday through Sunday

By Press Release

Press Release:

Grace Baptist Church is thrilled to announce its Christmas production of "A Christmas Carol," the timeless holiday story by Charles Dickens. This cherished tale of redemption will be Friday, December 13th at 7:00 PM, Saturday, December 14th at 3:00 PM, and Sunday, December 15th at 10:30 PM at Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St, Batavia NY.

Under the creative direction of Esther Osterman, Grace Baptist Church’s production of "A Christmas Carol" promises to capture the journey of Ebenezer Scrooge as he transforms from a miserly curmudgeon to a man filled with compassion and Christmas cheer. The performance will feature a talented cast of nearly 50 people.

“We are excited to share this powerful story with the community,” says Pastor Jeffery Bartz. “It’s more than a play; it’s an opportunity to reflect on redemption and the true meaning of Jesus’ coming. 

Admission to the performance is FREE. Families and community members of all ages are encouraged to attend and experience this classic story of transformation.

Event Details

What: "A Christmas Carol"

When: Friday, 7pm. Saturday 3pm. Sunday 10:30am.

Where: Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St, Batavia, NY 14020

Admission: Free

This family-friendly production is a perfect way to celebrate the Christmas season. Come enjoy an evening of timeless storytelling and discover the true spirit of Christmas.

For more information, please contact Grace Baptist Church at 585-343-0729 or visit gracebatavia.org

Travel advisory issued for southern Genesee County

By Press Release

Press release:

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office is issuing a travel advisory for areas south of Route 5 in Genesee County, effective until further notice. 

Sheriff Sheron encourages residents, “For your safety and the safety of first responders and highway snow removal personnel, please stay off the roads until conditions improve.”

Motorists are encouraged to avoid all unnecessary travel due to heavy snowfall, blowing and drifting snow that is causing poor visibility and poor road conditions.  These conditions will undoubtedly create treacherous travel for all motorists. 

During a travel advisory roads are not closed, however, no unnecessary travel is advised. A trip that could wait should not be made until the advisory is lifted.  The Genesee County Sheriff's Office does not determine the necessity for any individual to report to work.

GO ART! hosts member and staff artists exhibits opening Thursday

By Press Release
justin-reynolds-painting-sleep-paralysis.jpg
Submitted photo.

Press Release:

Join GO ART! on Thursday, December 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. to celebrate the opening of another exhibit featuring GO ART! member artists and staff members.

The public is invited to share this evening with us and view the visual art of local, regional, and GO ART! staff member artists. In addition to viewing the exhibition, visitors are invited to vote for their favorite piece to help us determine the People’s Choice Award and enjoy light refreshments and music. 

This art show is an annual exhibit that features work in all media created by GO ART! member artists. GO ART’s! Board of Directors, members, and staff look forward to this special exhibit each year that has become an annual signature event that wraps up all our fantastic events for the year!

Don’t miss this opportunity to consume a unique gift wrapped in diverse media that will evoke pleasurable emotions of joy, happiness, and peaceful contemplation. This is indeed a cause to celebrate with us, so we look forward to welcoming you. This event is free, but the experience will be invaluable!

GO ART! member artists exhibition runs from December 12 to February 1, and will be open for the public to view during gallery hours or by appointment.

Boys Basketball: Byron-Bergen falls to Attica 66-51

By Staff Writer
byron-bergen hoops

Byron-Bergen lost to Attica on Wednesday in Boys Basketball 66-51.

For the Bees, Cody Carlson scored 20 points, and Cole DiQuatrro scored 10.

Also in Boys Basketball on Wednesday

  • Greece-Athena beat Batavia 68-52. Carter Mullen scored 16 points for Batavia.
  • Hornell beat Le Roy 57-47. Jean Agosto scored 17 points and had nine rebounds.

Photos by Jennifer DiQuatrro.

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byron-bergen hoops
byron-bergen hoops
byron-bergen hoops
byron-bergen hoops
byron-bergen hoops
byron-bergen hoops

Boys Basketball: O-A beats Elba 67-51

By Staff Writer
elba oa basketball

Oakfield-Alabama beat Elba on Wednesday in Boys Basketball, 67-51.

For the Hornets, Avery Waterson scored 21 points, and Mason Watterson scored 13 points.

For the Lancers, Ryan Marsceill scored 16 point,s and Brayden Jachimowicz scored 14.

Photos by Debra Reilly.

elba oa basketball
elba oa basketball
elba oa basketball

Revenue is up at Batavia Downs but expenses, including wages and contract buyouts, cut into municipal profits

By Howard B. Owens
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File photo from Batavia Downs harness racing opening day in July.
Photo by Howard Owens.

By several metrics, the business of Batavia Downs is growing.

Revenue is flowing in at a record pace. There are more customers, more bets placed, and more bookings at the hotel, but with added success comes added expense, which Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. board remembers and executives discussed on Wednesday during the Finance Committee meeting.

Both the casino and hotel have more employees, and with three executives taking buyouts, added expenses have severely reduced the revenue that will be shared with the 17 municipalities that co-own the WROTB.

Based on profits through October, WROTB is paying out $1,677,960 less than it did through October 2023. So far this year, net earnings available for distribution are $7,107,384, compared to $8,785,334 at this time last year.

"I was asked this question by an individual, 'Well, how does that make you feel, Jackie, that the distributions are down?,'" CFO Jackie Leach said during her report to the committee. "I said, "You know, there are reasons why they are down from 2023. One, the board approved a 4.5% wage adjustment for employees.' I've always stated that we're a customer-oriented organization, and your employees are your most valuable assets; 2023 was a banner year for the corporation. So, between the wage adjustments, we do have one leg of Henry's buyout that's included in the 2024 wages, that's the cost of doing business."

In July, the board voted 14-1 to renegotiate the contracts of CEO Henry Wojtaszek, CFO Jackie Leach, and VP of Operations William White to buy out the remaining years on their terms.

Wojtaszek, who earns $299,000, will receive a full year severance. Leach, with a salary of $222,000, and White, with a salary of $160,000, each get six months severance.  By the end of the year, Leach said she and Wojtaszek will receive their full payout, so it will accrue to 2024, for a total of $521,000. White will be paid in 2025.

As for employee expenses, in addition to the 4.5% raise for casino employees, the operation added more than 20 staff positions. Hotel employees received 50-cents an hour raises and the hotel, which is run by a management organization, also added staff.

"The hotel overall has had pretty good revenue," said Paul Bartow, representing Schuyler County. "I guess what you're saying is that we could do better. We need to produce more revenue to cover some of these expenses. If, in fact, it looks like the hotel is doing well, you're like, 'Oh, great,' but it's not doing well enough given these expenses, and these expenses, in some ways, have to be moved, I guess, checked with more revenue from the hotel."

Leach said that's correct.

"When your costs go up, then you've got to make some adjustments," she said.

Ryan Hasenauer, VP of business development, said he and his staff are working on booking more mid-week events in order to increase mid-week room bookings and Leach confirmed that management is looking at increasing room rates.

Total revenue so far this year for the hotel is $2,399,000, up from $2,306,000. Payroll increased from $761,000 to $881,000. Other expenses increased from $647,000 to $682,000.

The other expense cutting into revenue distribution, Leach said, is increased legal expenses.

"Am I concerned? No. I've always said this corporation has to keep reinventing itself because of the competition," Leach said. "We work within a very saturated, saturated market in Western New York."

By the numbers, October was a good month for Batavia Downs. The net video game win was $7,641,556, up over $500,000 from the previous October. The October distribution to municipalities was up by $1,381 ($41,532 compared to $40,151). 

In October, there were 98,676,000 credits played, up from 92,088,000 in 2023. The win per terminal increased from $253.28 to $266.27.

The casino contributed $3.7 million to the state's education fund.

Attendance at the track increased from 74,000 to 76,000.

The casino also saw an increase in food and bar sales. Total sales increased from $676,636 to $774,848. Less expenses, net sales was $526,214.

OTB branches continue to struggle. In October, revenue was down $22,000, at a total handle this October of $3,366,000.  Year-to-date revenue is $36,522,000, a decrease of $5,198,000 (There was a $1.6 million drop in revenue attributed to the closure of one branch).

Total revenue for October is $74,331,000, up $2.5 million compared to 2023.  Expenses also increased from $23,507,000 to $25,429,000.  Salaries increased $985,000, which is still $210,000 less than projected in the 2024 budget.

Besides salary, there has been, so far this year, an increase in expenses of $939,000.

Revenue help should be coming in 2025, Leach said, with new video lottery terminals added to the floor of Batavia Downs, approved by the state, and the anticipated approval of new EZBet machines for bars and restaurants in the region.

"I was assured by the Gaming Commission that the four EZBets that have been in the hopper -- some for a couple of years -- that we could include them in our 2025 plan because they will be approved by year-end, so we will see what happens there."

Law and Order: Basom man accused of fleeing Attica PD on motorcycle

By Howard B. Owens

Douglas G. Goodwin, of Basom, is charged with criminal trespass 3rd, criminal nuisance 2nd, stalking 4th, unlawful fleeing a police officer 3rd, aggravated harassment 2nd, menacing 2nd, burglary 2nd, speeding, failure to obey traffic control devices, failure to stop at a stop sign, speed not reasonable prudent, failure to signal, driving an unregistered vehicle, reckless driving, and aggravated unlicensed operation 1st. Basom was arrested by the Sheriff's Office in Corfu on Nov. 27 following an investigation by the Attica Police Department.  Attica PD reports that in the evening hours of Sept. 16, officers responded to the parking area of Sokol Drive in the village to investigate a report of a suspicious and dangerous person. State troopers and Wyoming County deputies assisted in the response. When patrols arrived, the subject of the call fled on a performance-style motorcycle at a high rate of speed. The driver reportedly failed to respond to commands from police to stop and continued in a reckless and unsafe manner, almost striking a police vehicle. After a short chase the pursuit was terminated to protect the safety of residents.  Through an investigation, Goodwin was identified as the suspect. An arrest warrant was obtained based on witness statements and a victim statement. He reportedly has 14 license suspensions. Goodwin was arraigned in Attica Village Court and ordered held on $20,000 bail, $40,000 bond, or $80,000 unsecured bond. Chief Dean Hendershot stated, "I appreciate the dedication, effort and assistance of all involved, including the Wyoming County, NY Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police and the Genesee County, NY Sheriff’s Office. The residents of the Village of Attica can continue to live peacefully in a safe community they each deserve.”

Shawn P. O'Connor, 35, no residence provided, is charged with criminal mischief 2nd, unlawful fleeing 3rd, and reckless endangerment 2nd. O'Connor was arrested on Nov. 24. He allegedly fled from deputies attempting a traffic stop on Route 63 north into the village of Oakfield, where he crashed his vehicle after hitting a Sheriff's patrol vehicle in the parking lot of the Oakfield-Alabama Central School. He was taken into custody without incident. Multiple objects in the parking lot were reportedly struck by O'Connor's vehicle. He was issued 17 traffic tickets and held pending arraignment. Additional charges are pending.

Nyejay Nasir Braction, 20, of Wyoming Street, Buffalo, is charged with assault 2nd. Braction is accused of attacking a corrections officer at the Genesee County Jail at 6:50 p.m. on Oct. 15 and breaking the guard's finger. He was arrested on Nov. 15. He was arraigned and held.

Carl E. Canterbury, 54, of South Main Street, Batavia, is charged with two counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance 3rd and two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd. Canterbury was arrested on Nov. 14 on a sealed indictment following an investigation by the Local Drug Task Force into the possession, transportation, and sale of crack cocaine in the city of Batavia. Canterbury is accused of selling crack cocaine to an agent of the task force on two occasions while in the city of Batavia. He was arraigned in County Court and jailed.

Jerad Michael Stalker, 40, of Indian Falls Road, Corfu, is charged with falsifying business records 1st and criminal possession of stolen property 5th. Stalker is accused of selling stolen merchandise to Pawn King on Veterans Memorial Drive on Aug. 26 and signing a form stating he was the rightful owner. He allegedly stole the merchandise from a vehicle on West Main Street, Batavia. He was arrested Nov. 19 and processed at the Genesee County Jail.

Reanne Pauline Reed, 30, of Ellicott Street, Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Reed was allegedly involved in a scuffle at Batavia Downs at 9:14 p.m. on Nov. 20. Reed was taken to the Sheriff's Office and issued an appearance ticket.

Ryan Michael Bobzin, 35, of West Bergen Road, Bergen, is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation 1st, driving while impaired by drugs, and unlicensed driver. Bobzin was stopped at 4:28 p.m. on Oct. 2 on Townline Road Bergen by Deputy Zachary Hoy. He was arrested on Nov. 20. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Ryan Philip Harrison Clarke, 35, of North Street, Le Roy, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd and harassment 2nd. Clarke allegedly violated a "refrain from" order of protection by yelling in a person's face at 4:20 p.m. on Nov. 21 at a location on East Main Street, Corfu. He was held pending arraignment.

Zachary N. Knapp, 27, of East Avenue, Batavia, is charged with felony driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, felony driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and driving a vehicle on a highway. Knapp was stopped at 2:29 p.m. on Nov. 23 of Veterans Memorial Drive in connection with an investigation into a larceny in the area by Deputy Ryan Mullen. Knapp was released on an appearance ticket.

Mossy Earl Jones, 21, of Bloomingdale Road, Tonawanda Indian Reservation, is charged with DWI and moving from lane unsafely. Jones was stopped at 2:04 a.m. on Nov. 23 on Bloomingdale Road, Alabama, by Deputy Nicholas Jennings. He was released on appearance tickets.

Matthew Ryan Clarke, 32, of Middleport, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, dazzling headlights, speeding, and moving from lane unsafely. Clarke was stopped at 1:31 a.m. on Nov. 24 on Route 77 in Pembroke by Deputy Jeremiah Gechell. He was issued on traffic tickets.

Sarah Ann Malone, 42, of Graham Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal obstruction of breathing/blood circulation, endangering the welfare of a child, and harassment 2nd. Malone was arrested on a warrant issued by the Town of Bethany Court on Nov. 26 and held pending arraignment.

Nichole Marie Boldt, 25, of Route 237 Byron, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, moving from lane unsafely, and inadequate lights. Boldt was stopped at 6:02 p.m. on Nov. 27 on Clinton Street Road, Stafford, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. She was issued traffic tickets and released.

Weather-related incidents for Thursday

By Howard B. Owens
snow map
Via the Weather Channel, path of snowfall at 7:15 a.m. with prediction of more snow for Batavia in about 20 minutes.

Email weather-related photos to howard@thebatavian.com or text 585-260-6970

First responders have been dealing with multiple traffic mishaps this morning.

At one point this morning, tractor-trailers were blocking both directions on Route 19 at Parmalee Road in Le Roy. Law enforcement is still on scene at that location and looking to reroute traffic.

A tractor-trailer vs. car accident was reported earlier at Route 237 and Richmond Road.

A vehicle rollover accident was reported at Route 63 and Judge Road.

UPDATE 7:04 a.m.: A vehicle in the ditch on Route 238.  Also, vehicles are finding it difficult to get up hill on Richmond Road. Route 19 north is passable now but law enforcement wants to hold off opening up the road until plows hit it one more time.

UPDATE 7:08 a.m.: Law enforcement is checking on a vehicle at Colby and Sumner, Darien, with its four-ways on.

UPDATE 7:12 a.m.: As soon as there's more salt on the road, Route 19 at Parmalee can be reopened in both directions.

UPDATE 8:28 a.m.: A vehicle is off the road on Ford Road, Elba.

UPDATE 8:34 a.m.: A road patrol reports that Route 63 out of Pavilion, all traffic is stopped. Dispatch said they've received no calls on it.

UPDATE 8:34 a.m.: A road patrol requests traffic be blocked at Route 20 and Route 63, south. There are tractor-trailers blocking traffic and several of them "just parked."

UPDATE 8:52 a.m.: A patrol is in place to stop traffic southbound on Route 63. Other patrol reports that roadway is just about cleared. It might be only another five minutes.

UPDATE 8:58 a.m.: A patrol is dispatched to Route 20 and Route 98, Alexander, to direct seim-truck traffic northbound.

UPDATE 10:56 a.m.: Rollover accident reported on Route 98 at Goodman Road, Alexander. The operator reports no injuries.  A white pickup has struck a mailbox in Pavilion. DOT wants Route 20 shutdown between Route 98 and Route 238. 

UPDATE 10:57 a.m.: Tractor Trailers are backed up on Route 20.

UPDATE 11 a.m.: A travel advisory is being issued for Genesee County from Route 20 to the south.

UPDATE 11:11 a.m.: On Route 20, Alexander, there is a UPS truck on its side, a Budget truck in a ditch on the wrong side of the road, and a passenger vehicle off the road (which has its own tow on the way).

UPDATE 11:12 a.m.: In Le Roy, there are vehicles off the road on Vallance Road and on Perry Road.

UPDATE 11:42 a.m.: There may be a jack-knifed semi on Route 238, Alexander. 

UPDATE 11:46 a.m.: Route 238 is open both directions between Route 20 and the village of Attica.

UPDATE Noon: An Amazon van is struck on Stroh Road, Alexander.

Photos of Route 19 from Thursday morning via Le Roy PD:

route 19 weather
route 19 weather
route 19 weather

Police arrest suspect in hit-and-run that sent pedestrian to hospital

By Howard B. Owens

Following an investigation into a hit-and-run accident at 5:11 p.m. on Tuesday on East Main Street near the Mobile Gas Station, police took into custody Jeffrey Plath, no age provided, of Stringham Drive.

The victim of the hit-and-run accident was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital. His name was not released. Batavia PD reports he is in satisfactory condition.

At the time of his apprehension, Plath was allegedly found with a switchblade knife, which police said he did not use or threaten to use. 

Plath is charged with criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, unregistered motor vehicle, uninsured motor vehicle, and leaving the scene of an injury accident.

He was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance. 

Police ask that anyone with information related to the case to call Det. Mathew Wojtaszczyk at 585-345-6357.

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