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City board of education welcomes new school resource officer, shows appreciation to four employees

By Billie Owens

Photo of Batavia City Police Officer Jason Davis, the city school district's new school resource officer.

Submitted photos and information from the Batavia City School District:

At the Batavia City School District Board of Education meeting on Tuesday evening, trustees welcomed Batavia Police Officer Jason Davis as the District’s new school resource officer (SRO).

Officer Davis assumed his new duties on Nov. 28. He will continue the SRO work in all city schools to ensure student and staff safety as well as in building strong positive relationships between the BPD and students.

With 23 years of police experience, 20 of which have been in Batavia, Officer Davis will be a valuable resource for the District.

Board President Patrick Burk also presented four Certificates of Appreciation at the meeting.

Lisa Whitehead -- Certificate of Appreciation

Nominated by Lynn Dobbertin:

"Lisa goes above and beyond her duties every day and makes herself useful in every situation. In addition to being a classroom aide, she rides the bus home with students each day, she runs the John Kennedy School Post Office and the John Kennedy TVFCU Bank. Both before school programs allow students to participate in real life jobs and the students love being part of the clubs.

"Lisa buys snacks for the students in the classrooms that she works in so that kids are not without a snack at snack time. She is very thorough when working with students. Her expectations for student work and behavior are high. She is highly respected by both students and staff as a result."

Seana Murphy -- Certificate of Appreciation

Nominated by Dr. Cook and Mrs. Krumpek

"Seana is an important and valuable part of our support team at John Kennedy. She is always going above and beyond to support our students, families, and staff. She can often be found throughout the day with students, faculty, and parents working through questions or planning for student success.

"Her 'out of the box' thinking enables us to come up with creative interventions for students leading to increased achievement and success in the classroom. Mrs. Murphy also coordinates our Check-in, Check-out program for many of our at-risk students.

"Her students love her and value the time she spends with them. She is extremely organized, phenomenal at collaborating and communicating her ideas and extremely dedicated to our students. We are blessed to have her as part of our John Kennedy family."

Barb Roba -- Certificate of Appreciation

Nominated by Dr. Cook and Mrs. Krumpek

"Barb is an important and valuable part of our support team at John Kennedy. She helps with building-wide initiatives and sits on several committees where she advocates for the needs of our students and families. Mrs. Roba goes above and beyond to support our students and help them integrate skills for coping, emotional regulation, and problem solving.

"She seeks ways to improve the services we offer to students to better meet their needs. This year she is piloting a Social Emotional Learning Curriculum with some of our fourth-grade classes and is the counselor for our new Primary Project program for our second-graders.

"She is dedicated to the school and more often than not gives up her lunch, plan and after school time to help faculty or students with any concerns they have. The relationships she builds with students, staff and families are priceless. She is truly loved and respected at JK and we are honored to have her as part of our John Kennedy family."

John Dehm -- Certificate of Appreciation

Nominated by Dr. Cook and Mrs. Krumpek

"John Dehm is an outstanding faculty member. John is an important and valuable part of our support team at John Kennedy. He goes above and beyond to build relationships with our students and families.

"He has taught many of our kids valuable social skills like making eye contact and giving strong, firm handshakes. He is a patient and kind person who never says no to the many things that are asked of him each day. He is truly loved and respected by all and has become a staple in our building.

"John does an amazing job making sure our building, students, and staff are safe and feel safe. He is truly dedicated to our JK family and we are excited and honored to have him on our JK team."

Saturday is the fifth annual 'Shop with a Cop' at Walmart

By Billie Owens

File photo of Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Chad Cummings at the 2018 Shop with a Cop event at Walmart in Batavia.

On Saturday, Dec. 7th, members of the Batavia Police Department, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police Troop A, and the Village of Le Roy Police Department will be participating in the fifth annual “Shop with a Cop” event at Walmart on Veterans Memorial Drive in Batavia.

Grant money from Walmart, designated specifically for this event was distributed equally to the Batavia Police Department, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and New York State Police Troop A. The schools, (including school resource officers) within Genesee County assisted in choosing the children. 

The City of Batavia Police Benevolent Association, Genesee County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, City of Batavia CSEA members, the City’s “Jeans for Friday” program, Department of Public Works (AFSCME) Union, H.E. Turner & Co. Inc. Funeral Home of Batavia & Bergen, Bonarigo and McCutcheon Law Office, NextEra Energy Resources LLC and Walmart staff raised additional funds, which enabled 23 extra children to participate. 

Additionally, the Village of Le Roy Police Department received a donation from the Rotary Club of Le Roy to sponsor five children.

A total of 57 children were invited to participate in this year’s event. Once at Walmart, the children will take photographs with Santa Claus and meet with their individual "Cop."

Walmart graciously hosts the event, allocates employees specifically for the event, and also donates gift wrapping materials. Gift wrapping will be completed by the Young Adults Group from Batavia City Church, members of the Batavia Police Explorer’s Post and family members from Batavia Police Department and Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Author to discuss Linden Murders and other notorious crimes at HLOM

By Howard B. Owens
Video Sponsor
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Rob Thompson discusses Western New York's most notorious crimes, the Linden murders at 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 14 at the Holland Land Office Museum.

Thompson, author of 16 books including "The Linden Murders...Solved," and "Twisted Tree-Final Word on the Linden Murders," will provide details of the crimes, the victims and the suspects. The discussion will be followed by a question and answer session as well as a book signing.

Thompson will also discuss his newest book "Swinging in the Rain," which is about the crimes committed within Genesee County that resulted in the death penalty.

Admission is $3 for non-HLOM members and $2 for members.

Video: Thompson discussing "Swinging in the Rain."

Lions host annual tournament at GCC later this month

By Howard B. Owens

The annual Peter Arras Lions Basketball Tournament tips off at 3:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 27 at Genesee Community College with Roy Hart, Attica, Elba, Oakfield-Alabama, Notre Dame, Perry, Le Roy, and Batavia high schools competing for large school and small school trophies.

  • Roy Hart and Attica play the first game at 3:30 p.m.
  • Elba vs. O-A is at 5:15 p.m.
  • Perry vs Notre Dame at 7 p.m.
  • Le Roy vs. BHS, at 8:45 p.m. 

The championship games are Dec. 30, with consolidation games at 3:30 p.m. and 5:15 p.m. The small school championship game is scheduled for 7 p.m. and the large school championship game at 9 p.m.

Submitted photo and information.

Photo: front row -- Aiden Johnson, O-A, Bryce Reigle, Batavia, Joey Burdick, O-A, Reed Albee, Roy Hart; back row -- Franic Bisceglie, Attica, Michael Hockey, Perry, Grant Gilligan, Le Roy, Colton Dillion, Elba.

Law and Order: Corfu man charged with multiple felonies after domestic incident on Friday

By Billie Owens

Jerrol Paul Newell, 50, of East Main Street, Corfu, (photo above) is charged with: three counts of second-degree strangulation (Class D felonies); unlawful imprisonment in the first degree (Class E felony); and two Class A misdemeanors -- second-degree menacing -- displaying a weapon or dangerous instrument, and third-degree assault. At 7:50 a.m. on Nov. 29, Newell was arrested after the Genesee County Sheriff's Office investigated a domestic incident that occurred on East Main Street in the Village of Corfu. He was arraigned in Pembroke Town Court and put in Genesee County Jail with bail set at $50,000 cash. The case is still under investigation and additional charges are pending. The case was investigated by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Jared Swimline, assisted by Deputy Ryan DeLong. The Sheriff's Office was assisted by members of the Corfu Police Department, the Wyoming County Sheriff's Office and the New York State Police.

Mark T. Helm, 38, of State Street, Batavia, (inset photo left) is charged with second-degree assault and endangering the welfare of a child. Helm was arrested at 9:41 p.m. on Nov. 24 on State Street after allegedly striking a person, causing serious physical injury, all while in front of four children. Helm was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed without bail. He was due back in city court on Nov. 26. The case was investigated by Batavia Police Officer Joshua Girvin, assisted by Officer Wesley Rissinger.

Kiha S. McNear, 22, of Lake Street, Le Roy, (inset photo right) is charged with: criminal mischief -- intentionally damaging property; second-degree criminal contempt; aggravated criminal contempt -- previous conviction; and second-degree burglary -- illegally entering a dwelling. McNear was arrested at 9:35 p.m. on Nov. 25 at a resident on Walnut Street in the City of Batavia. He allegedly entered the residence of a person who has an order of protection against him and damaged some of the person's property. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court on Nov. 26 and is due back in court on Dec. 5. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Officer Miah Stevens.

Above photo taken after the arrest of Colby J. Swain, courtesy of NYS Police -Troop A, Batavia.

Colby J. Swain, 34, of Amherst, was arrested Nov. 30 by New York State Police and charged with criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree ("loaded firearm other than a person’s home"), a Class C felony, and criminal possession of marijuana in the third degree, a Class E felony. Swain was stopped at 1:45 p.m. on I-90 in the Town of Batavia for a vehicle and traffic violation. During the interview, troopers determined there was "probable cause to search the vehicle." A duffle bag which was locked with a combination lock was located inside the vehicle. Swain allegedly refused to cooperate with the investigation, which result in the troopers obtaining a search warrant for the bag. "Inside the bag that Swain claimed ownership of, was over 11 ounces of marijuana and a loaded Smith and Wesson M&P .45-caliber pistol with an 8-round magazine" (in photo above). Swain did not possess a pistol permit. Swain was arraigned before the Town of Batavia Court and released under the supervision of Genesee County Probation. No return court date is available at this time.

Justin P. Mcgirr, 37, of Ross Street, Batavia, and Jeremiah T. Jones, age and address not provided, are charged with disorderly conduct by way of fighting/violent behavior. They were arrested on Ross Street after they were allegedly observed in a physical fight by police at 1:07 p.m. on Nov. 23. They were issued appearance tickets and were due in Batavia City Court at 1 p.m. today (Dec. 3). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Joshua Girvin, assisted by Officer Stephen Quider.

Jonathan Brice White, 27, of Buffalo Street, Bergen, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. White was arrested at 3:15 p.m. on Nov. 13 after he allegedly repeatedly violated a full stay away order of protection by contacting the protected party. After his arraignment in Batavia City Court, he was jailed on $1,000 bail, cash or bond. He was due back in city court Nov. 26. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Raylynne M. Santiago, 20, of Walnut Street, Batavia, is charged with harassment and obstruction of governmental administration. Batavia Police Officer Peter Post arrested Santiago following a domestic incident reported at 12:50 a.m. on Nov. 24 in the vicinity of Jackson and Maple streets in the city. She was due in Batavia City Court at 1:30 p.m. today (Dec. 3). Post was assisted by Officer Stephen Cronmiller.

Daniel S. Kuczka, 75, of Walden Creek Drive, Batavia, is charged with trespassing. He was arrested after a trespass complaint was made at 11:35 a.m. on Nov. 20 at the Richmond Memorial Library on Ross Street in the city. He was due in Batavia City Court this afternoon (Dec. 3) to answer the charge. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Ross D. Rahn, 24, of Main Street, Le Roy, is charged with: stopping on a highway; moving from lane unsafely; and driving while ability impaired. At 1:28 a.m. on Dec. 2, Batavia police responded to a call of a vehicle parked crossways across the roadway on West Main Street near Vernon Avenue in the city. Rahn was subesquently arrested, issued appearance tickets, and is due in Batavia City Court on Dec. 18. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Peter Post.

Zachary J. Marrow, 28, of Manhattan Avenue, Batavia, is charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated -- a BAC of .18 percent of more, and DWI -- first offense. Marrow was arrested at 12:31 a.m. on Nov. 16 on East Main Street in Batavia. He is due in Batavia City Court on Dec. 11. The case was handled by Bataiva Police Officer Miah Stevens, assisted by Officer Arick Perkins.

Gregory F. Frieday, 34, of Osterhout Avenue, Batavia, is charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief, a misdemeanor. On Nov. 17, Genesee County Sheriff's deputies responded to a complaint of criminal mischief for a broken exterior window at Batavia Downs. Following an investigation, it is alleged that Frieday broke an exterior window on the south side of the building. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Town of Batavia Court on Dec. 19. The case was handled by Deputy Brock Cummins, assisted by Deputy James Stack.

Melynda M. Gayhart, 31, of Hutchins Street, Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 25 on a bench warrant out of Batavia City Court. This stems from a larceny incident which occurred on Feb. 17 on East Main Street in Batavia. After her arraignment in city court, she was released and is due back in court on Dec. 5. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Nicole McGinnis.

Schumer announces feds issue new financial guidance for lending to industrial hemp growers

By Billie Owens

Press release:

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer announced today that following his major push, the Federal Reserve, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), in tandem with the Conference of State Bank Supervisors, have confirmed the legality of banks and other financial institutions extending services and products to industrial hemp-oriented businesses and farms.

Schumer explained that without access to traditional financial services, local farmers and the industrial hemp industry across Upstate New York had been unfairly restricted on capital investment, preventing further economic growth and the creation of good-paying jobs, and choking off valuable income for farmers.

Lack of Awareness By Lending Institutions

Schumer said the lack of awareness by lending institutions about the legality of industrial hemp had created an unwarranted murkiness around the legality of financing hemp-oriented businesses — and that new guidance was urgently needed.

With that now cleared up, the industrial hemp industry can continue to seed and grow across Upstate New York.

“This is a strong step in the right direction to boost the growth of the industrial hemp industry, and I am glad federal regulators, including the Fed, heeded my call to provide clarity to banks that industrial hemp is fully legal and their member banks are free to lend to farmers and producers," Schumer said.

"Now that the feds have issued to lenders updated guidance clarifying hemp’s legality as a crop, the industry will really start to take root and grow. I fought so hard to strip the burdensome and outdated federal regulations from industrial hemp because of all the good it can do for our farmers, our economy and our consumers. Today’s updated financial guidance related to industrial hemp means that we’re one big step closer to the complete emergence of a job-creating, economy-boosting industry across New York State.”

No More 'Suspicious Activity Reports' for Industrial Hemp-oriented Businesses

Specifically, the Fed, FDIC, FinCEN and OCC announced that under the Bank Secrecy Act, banks will no longer have to file Suspicious Activity Reports for industrial hemp-oriented businesses seeking to attain loans or other services. Schumer explained that this will significantly increase the likelihood that these businesses receive financial services, and help the industry continue growing and creating good-paying jobs for New Yorkers.

Schumer explained that since the 2018 Farm Bill removed the federal regulatory shackles from industrial hemp production, manufacturing, and selling, New York’s industrial hemp industry has started to grow significantly, with new farms and businesses emerging and existing ones expanding operations. This has brought considerably more good-paying jobs and revenue to Upstate New York, making industrial hemp a critical new part of the state’s agricultural future.

That being said, as industrial hemp farmers and businesses are exploring the full benefits of the 2018 Farm Bill, they have experienced serious difficulty accessing financial products with regulatory uncertainty at financial institutions. While some companies have agreed to offer financial services to the growing hemp industry, many have not due to confusion over the crop’s legal status.

The Schumer-backed Hemp Farming Act of 2018 was introduced by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Sens. Rand Paul (R-KY), Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Ron Wyden (D-OR). It passed and was signed into law as part of the 2018 Farm Bill.

This legislation:

  • Removes industrial hemp from Schedule 1 of the Controlled Substances Act;
  • Empowers states to be the principal regulators of hemp;
  • Allows hemp researchers to apply for competitive grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA); 
  • And makes hemp farmers eligible to apply for crop insurance.

Industrial hemp is a type of cannabis plant that is grown largely for industrial uses, but it can also be used for food, oil, and cosmetic products.

The Roadblock of a Spec of THC Lifted

Hemp contains a very small amount, typically between 0.2 and 0.3 percent of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and while from the same species of plant as marijuana, it has varied widely in use. However, due to the existence of THC in hemp, Schumer explained, both plants were considered “controlled substances” under federal law, meaning the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) was the primary regulator for hemp production.

Schumer argued that this narrow view has undermined the crop’s agricultural and economic potential.

With the Hemp Farming Act of 2018 passed by Congress and signed into law last year, this unnecessary roadblock has been lifted, and industrial hemp’s significant potential to become a cash crop in Upstate New York will be unleashed.

City offices' phone system restored

By Billie Owens

From Assistant City Manager Rachael Tabelski:

The City of Batavia phone system has been restored for all City locations. The phone outage was caused by a power outage in the server room that caused an equipment failure. We do not anticipate any further problems at this time.

Batavia PD patrol car struck while responding to call this morning

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

This morning at approximately 6:45 City of Batavia Police officers were dispatched to a report of a burglary alarm at a business in the Eastown Plaza. Two officers, in separate marked patrol cars, responded to the alarm and were traveling eastbound on East Main Street.

As the patrol car in the lead approached the intersection of East Main and Liberty Street, it entered the intersection with lights and sirens activated and had a steady green light. A vehicle traveling north on Liberty Street failed to stop for a steady red light and entered the intersection.

The officer attempted to avoid the vehicle but was unsuccessful.

The northbound vehicle struck the patrol car causing it to travel across the westbound lane and over the curb, striking a tree and coming to rest on the parkway and sidewalk area. The other vehicle then struck another uninvolved vehicle.

The officer operating the marked patrol car was taken to UMMC’s Emergency Room to be evaluated and was released with a minor injury. There were no other injuries reported as a result of the collision.

The accident is currently under investigation and we will advise of any charges.

City Fire Department encourages residents to 'Adopt a Fire Hydrant'

By Billie Owens

Press release:

With winter now thrust upon us and in the event of an emergency, could firefighters find the closest fire hydrant near your home or business?

Fire Chief Stefano Napolitano and the members of the City of Batavia Fire Department are encouraging residents to “adopt a fire hydrant” near their home or business this winter season.

They are asking residents and business owners for their assistance in keeping fire hydrants clear of snow and debris.

The Chief also noted that this is an informal program and therefore it is not necessary to advise the department about which fire hydrants you will be keeping clear.

If possible, firefighters ask that the “adopted” hydrants be uncovered of snow after each snowfall and provide a clear path of approximately three feet around the hydrant.

This path will allow fire department staff to quickly locate the hydrant and obtain a water supply used in firefighting activities. Delays in locating and connecting to a fire hydrant can hamper fire suppression activities, raising the risk of injury and furthering property damage.

Additionally, the department asks residents and business owners to contact fire headquarters at 585-345-6375 if they require assistance in clearing their hydrant or notice damage to the hydrant itself or the reflective marker attached to the hydrant.

Lastly, Chief Napolitano requests people to please consider helping a neighbor who may be elderly or has a medical condition by keeping the fire hydrant clear near their residence.

“Together we can help keep our City safe this winter season,” Napolitano said.

The fire officers and firefighters of the City of Batavia Fire Department would like to thank the community for its continued support of the men and women of the department and the services that we provide.

Jackson Primary School staff works at Eastown Plaza McDonald's today for 'McTeacher's Night' fundraiser

By Billie Owens

Staff members at Jackson Primary School are working today (Dec. 3) from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at McDonald's restaurant at 373 E. Main St. -- Eastown Plaza.

"McTeacher's Night" is a fundraiser for the school and 15 percent of all sales will go to Jackson Home School Association.

Plus, there will be a 50/50 raffle and basket raffles in the dining area at McDonald's.

If your child completes the coloring page on the back of last week's flier and brings it to McTeacher's Night, he or she will get a free ice cream cone or sliced apples!

Here's the staff lineup for the event:

4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

  • Mr. Calandra
  • Mrs. Conroy
  • Mrs. Fix
  • Mrs. Koukides
  • Mrs. Musilli
  • Mrs. Radesi
  • Mr. Sloan

5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

  • Mrs. Clark
  • Mrs. Gilebarto
  • Mrs. Harloff
  • Mrs. Mattice
  • Miss Mrzywka
  • Mrs. White
  • Mrs. Wolff

6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

  • Ms. Ditzel
  • Mrs. Flanagan
  • Mrs. Jones
  • Mrs. Okoniewski
  • Mrs. Peterson

Photos: Cold, white and blue in Batavia

By Howard B. Owens

It was a beautiful morning in Genesee County, with temperatures in the teens so trees stayed flocked even though the sun was out and the sky was blue.

Top photo, from Court Street, looking toward the Old Courthouse.

The snow-covered eagle atop the Upton Monument taken through the window on the third floor of the Old Courthouse.

The Rowell Mansion.

Centennial Park (in black and white).

Centennial Park (in black and white).

The Barber Conable Post Office Building in Batavia.

The flag pole outside the Old Courthouse.

Public Health Column: This is National Influenza Week, get your flu shot

By Billie Owens

From the Genesee County Health Department:

Dec. 1st – 7th is this year’s National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW).

As family and friends are gathering for the holidays, flu activity is increasing. NIVW serves as a reminder it is not too late to get a flu vaccine.

Paul Pettit, Public Health director of Genesee and Orleans counties wants to remind folks that when you get a flu vaccine, you are also protecting your loved ones and your community.

“Getting vaccinated isn’t just about keeping  you healthy; it is also about helping to protect others around you who may be at risk of becoming very sick, such asbabies, older adults, and pregnant women,” he said.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs.

When someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or talks, they spray tiny droplets. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby.

People can also get the flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touch their own mouth, nose, or eyes.

Influenza can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Although the majority of hospitalizations and deaths occur in people 65 years and older, healthy young children and adults can have severe disease or even die from the flu.

“To be protected against the flu, you have to get the vaccine every year,” said Brenden Bedard, director of Community Health Services of Genesee and Orleans counties.

“Because flu viruses are constantly changing, flu vaccines may be updated from one season to the next to protect against the viruses that research suggests may be most common during the upcoming flu season. For the best protection, everyone 6 months of age and older should get vaccinated annually.”

In addition to receiving the flu shot, it is also important to practice good health habits.

The tips below will help you learn about ways you can protect yourself and others from germs this season.

  • Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing – or cough/sneeze into your elbow if no tissues are available. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Flu and other serious respiratory illnesses, like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and whooping cough are spread by coughing, sneezing, or unclean hands.
  • Wash your hands. Good hand washing takes 20 seconds. Sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice while you wash. Scrub with soap and water to remove germs. Always wash hands before eating, and after coughing, sneezing, spending time outside, touching animals, using the bathroom, or changing a baby’s diaper. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
  • Practice other good health habits. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Flu seasons are unpredictable and can last late into the spring.

As long as flu viruses are spreading and causing illness, vaccination should continue throughout the flu season in order to protect as many people as possible. It’s important to remember that it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies to develop in the body and provide protection against influenza virus infection.

If you have not received your annual flu vaccine this year, now is the time! To find a place near you to get a flu vaccine, visit HealthMap Vaccine Finder.

For information about Health Department services contact the Genesee County Health Department at 344-2580, ext. 5555, or visit their website.

GCASA promotes Hodgins to Chief Clinical Officer position

By Mike Pettinella

Press release:

Kathy Hodgins, of Medina, has accepted the new position of Chief Clinical Officer for the Genesee/Orleans Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse.

The appointment of Hodgins to the high-level supervisory post was announced by John Bennett, the agency’s executive director.

“We are excited about Kathy taking on this vitally important role at GCASA,” Bennett said. “She will work closely with all of the clinic directors, medical director and medical staff to ensure the care for patients is seamless across our systems.”

Under the direct supervision of the executive director, Hodgins, a 19-year employee at GCASA, will oversee the development and monitoring of the existing and future quality systems of the Clinical Services operation.

Hodgins has extensive experience in the substance abuse treatment field, beginning her career as a chemical dependency counselor at GCASA in 2002.

In 2006, she became the agency’s assistant director of forensics and satellite services, facilitating services to Orleans County Drug Court and Albion Correction Facility’s work release program, and three years later, moved up to the assistant director of treatment, managing daily outpatient treatment operations and supervision of clinical staff.

In 2012, Hodgins was promoted to director of treatment services in Orleans County, managing and supervising programs and staff at the outpatient center, and in 2018, she took on the dual role as senior service director in Genesee and Orleans counties. Her responsibilities expanded to include not only the outpatient services in both counties, but also management of the Opioid Treatment Program at GCASA’s Batavia campus.

A licensed social worker and credentialed alcohol and substance abuse counselor, Hodgins also is an adjunct instructor at Genesee Community College, where she implements lesson plans on the use, misuse and abuse of drugs and alcohol, and supports the Royal Employer Assistance Program as a counselor.

She received her master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Buffalo after earning a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Brockport State College and an associate degree in Human Services from Genesee Community College.

Her civic involvement includes Leadership Orleans, Orleans Recovery Hope Begins Here and WNY Chemical Dependency Consortium.

Disclosure: Story written by Mike Pettinella, GCASA publicist.

City departments without phone service today, still open for business

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Currently, the City of Batavia's phone system is down for all City locations. In case of an emergency please remember to call 9-1-1. City Police and Fire will be notified about any emergency situations directly from dispatch and will operate as normal.

City offices will be open normal business hours from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. today (Dec. 3) for walk-in business.

Please continue to contact members of the City of Batavia staff via email or through the City’s website contact form to reach out with any questions or correspondence https://www.batavianewyork.com/home/webforms/contact-form

Thank you in advance for your patience, and we will keep you up to date with information as we work to get our phones back online.

Durin Rogers to be sworn in as City Court judge on Dec. 20

By Mike Pettinella

Submitted photo and press release:

Durin B. Rogers, formerly the part-time judge for the City of Batavia, will assume the role and responsibilities as Batavia’s next full-time City Court Judge.

Rogers was elected to the full-time position on Nov. 5 and will take over on Jan. 1 for Judge Robert Balbick who will retire at the end of the year. 

The swearing-in ceremony will take place at noon on Friday, Dec. 20 in the Batavia City Courtroom located in the Genesee County Courts Facility, 1 W. Main St., Batavia.

All are welcome to attend.

Grand Jury: Man accused of sex abuse in Le Roy, another of menacing a city cop

By Billie Owens

Donald J. Frisby is indicted for the crime of first-degree sexual abuse, a Class D violent felony. It is alleged that on July 14 on Clay Street in the Town of Le Roy that Frisby subjected another person to sexual contact by forcible compulsion.

Morgan L. Cox Jr. is indicted for the crime of menacing a police officer, a Class D violent felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 28 in the City of Batavia that Cox intentionally place or attempted to place a police officer in reasonable fear of physical injury or serious physical injury or death by displaying a knife while the officer was performing his duties. In count two, Cox is accused of first-degree menacing, a Class E felony, for allegedly intentionally placing another person in fear of physical injury, serious physical injury or death by displaying a dangerous instrument -- a knife. In count three, Cox is accused of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a Class D felony, for allegedly intentionally using a dangerous instrument -- a knife -- against another person. In count four, Cox is accused of obstructing governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count four that Cox intentionally obstructed, impaired or prevented a public servant from performing his duties, or tried to do so, by means of intimidation, physical force or interference or an unlawful act. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Cox is accused of having been convicted of second-degree menacing, a Class A misdemeanor, in the City of Batavia (date not provided) and that conviction forms the basis of counts two and three in the current indictment.

Steven M. Lindner is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on June 18 in the City of Batavia that Lindner knowingly and unlawfully possessed a narcotic drug -- cocaine -- with intent to sell it. In count two, he is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, also a Class B felony. It is alleged in count two that the defendant possessed a narcotic drug -- fentanyl -- with intent to sell it. In count three, Lindner is accsued of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth degree, a Class D felony, for allegedly possessing cocaine in an amount weighing 500 milligrams or more. In counts four and five, respectively, the defendant is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly possessing controlled substances unlawfully -- fentanyl and alprazolam. In count six, he is accused of unlawful possession of marijuana in the second degree, a violation.

Carey Culverhouse is indicted for the crime of first-degree assault, a Class B violent felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 2, 2017 in the City of Batavia that Culverhouse intentionally seriously injured another person by means of a dangerous instrument -- a knife.

Dalton C. Kelly is indicted for the crime of second-degree assault, a Class D violent felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 18 on Chase Park in the City of Batavia that Kelly intentionally caused physical injury to another person by means of a dangerous instrument (not specified). In count two, Kelly is accused of second-degree menacing, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly intentionally placing a person in reasonable fear of physical injury, serious physical injury or death, or attempting to do so, by displaying a dangerous instrument (unspecified).

Kevin J. Weber is indicted for the crime of second-degree assault, a Class D violent felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 19 on Judge Road in Alabama that Weber intentionally caused serious physical injury to another person. In count two, he is accused of third-degree menacing, a Class B misdemeanor, for allegedly placing, or attempting to place, a person in fear of death, imminent serious physical injury or physical injury by means by physical menace.

Shonje K. Jefferson is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on June 27 in the City of Batavia that Jeffereson knowingly and unlawfully possessed a narcotic drug -- cocaine -- with intent to sell it. In count two, Jefferson is accused of unlawful possession of marijuana in the second degree, a violation.

Darius L. Jones and Trevon L. Armstrong are indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, a Class C armed violent felony. It is alleged that on Oct. 2 in the City of Batavia that they possessed a loaded firearm, an Amadeo Rossi .38-caliber revolver. In count two Jones and Armstrong are accused of second-degree criminal contempt, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count two that on Oct. 2 they intentionally disobeyed or resisted the lawful process or mandate of a court. In count three, they are accused of endangering the welfare of a child for allegedly knowingly acting in manner likely to be injuious to the physical, mental or moral welfare of a child less than 17 years old. In count four, they are accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly possessing acetaminophen / oxycodone hydrochloride. In count five, they are accused of unlawful possession of marijuana, a violation. In count six, Jones is accused of exposure of a person, a violation, for allegedly appearing in a public place in a manner that exposed his body's private parts.

Louis C. Restivo is indicted for the crime of second-degree assault, a Class D violent felony. It is alleged that on July 13 in the Town of Bergen that Restivo intentionally caused physical injury to another person by means of a dangerous instrument (unspecified).

Jon N. Roblee is indicted for the crime of menacing in the first degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on Sept. 29 in the City of Batavia that Roblee intentionally placed another person in fear of physical injury, serious physical injury or death by displaying a dangerous instrument -- a metal pipe. In count two, Roblee is accused of obstructing governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count two that he intentionally obstructed, impaired or prevented a public servant from performing his duties, or tried to do so, by means of intimidation, physical force or interference or an unlawful act. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Roblee is accused of having been convicted of the crime of second-degree menacing, a Class A misdemeanor, on Nov. 7, 2011 and that conviction was within 10 years of the crimes alleged in the current indictment.

Ernest D. Lane is indicted for the crime of aggravated family offense, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on April 8 at an apartment on Ellicott Street in the City of Batavia that Lane that intentionally disobeyed or resisted the lawful process or mandate of a court -- a valid stay away order of protection issued March 28 in Batavia City Court. He did so by allegedly being at the home of the protected party. In count two, Lane is accused of criminal contempt in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor, for allegedly being at the home of the protected party that day. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Lane is accused of having been convicted of the crime of third-degree menacing against members of the same household and a special offense because the conviction was within the last five years -- on Jan. 18, 2018.

Katrina L. Gerace is indicted for the crime of driving while intoxicated, as a Class E felony. It is alleged that on June 3 in the Town of Elba that Gerace drove a 2012 Mini Cooper on Route 262 while intoxicated. In count two, Gerace is accused for aggravated DWI per se, also a Class D felony, for allegedly having a BAC of .18 percent or more at the time. In Special Information filed by the District Attorney, Gerace is accused of having been convicted of driving under the influence or alcohol or a controlled substance, as a misdemeanor, "Highest Rate of Alcohol .16 percent BAC or higher," on Dec. 8, 2014 in the Court of Common Pleas of Erie County, Pa., and that conviction was within 10 years of the crimes alleged in the current indictment.

Jay W. Schafer is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a firearm, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on June 19 in the City of Batavia that Schafer possessed a Smith and Wesson, Model 10, .38-caliber Special revolver.

Adam M. Kreutz is indicted for the crime of offering a false instrument for filing in the first degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged that at an address on Fisher Road in Oakfield on June 22 that Keutz presented a supporting deposition to a public servant, knowing that the document contained a false statement or false information and that it would become part of the official records. In count two, he is accused of falsifying business records in the first degree, also a Class E felony. It is alleged in count two that on June 22 at an address on Fisher Road in the Town of Oakfield that he intentionally tried to defraud or make a false entry in the business records of an enterprise. This was allegedly done by providing a supporting deposition that attempted to conceal the commission of reckless driving.

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AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 1ST CITY OF BATAVIA 4-5 bedroom Duplex apartment with 1 Bedroom, Living room, laundry room, dining room, bathroom, and small kitchen on first floor. 4 bedrooms 2nd floor. Newly painted. Some new carpet. Basement storage. 1/2 garage use for storage/ not parking. Large yard. $1,100/month includes trash pickup, Refrigerator, Gas Stove. You pay gas, electric, water. No dogs. Good references required with background check. Pathstone approved. Near ARC. Mike 585-993-4002
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