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Law and Order: Caledonia man charged with felony for allegedly possessing drugs with intent to sell

By Billie Owens

Chase J. Francis-Whipset, 27, of Caledonia, was arrested on June 4 by the Le Roy Police Department and charged with: one count of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 5th degree with the intent to sell, a Class D felony; aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the first degree, a Class E felony; unlawful possession of marijuana, a violation; speed in zone, a violation; unlicensed operator, a violation; and driver's view obstructed, a violation. Francis-Whipset was stopped by the Le Roy Police after allegedly operating a motor vehicle on East Main Street speeding. After a brief investigation, it was found that Francis-Whipset had a suspended driver’s license. Further investigation revealed that Francis-Whipset allegedly possessed a quantity of cocaine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Francis-Whipset was arraigned in the Town of Le Roy Court and put in Genesee County Jail in lieu of $3,000 cash bail or $6,000.00 bond. Francis-Whipset is to appear in court on June 8.

Blake Riley Pahuta, 18, of Alleghany Road, Pembroke, is charged with petit larceny, sixth-degree conspiracy, third-degree tampering, and unlawful possession of marijuana. A 17-year-old-female from Pembroke is charged in the same incident for petit larceny, sixth-degree conspiracy and third-degree tampering. The charges for both individuals stem from a shoplifting complainant from Kmart. Pahuta was operating the suspect vehicle from a larceny; the female was a passenger in that vehicle. Pahuta was observed northbound on Route 77 at 3:50 p.m. on June 6. As a State Police patrol attempted to stop the vehicle, a large black bag was thrown from the suspect vehicle. The vehicle was later stopped on Cohocton Road in the Town of Pembroke and at the end of the investigation, Pahuta and the female were arrested on the charges. They were taken to jail for processing, then released on appearance tickets for Town of Batavia Court and Pembroke Court at a later date(s). The cases were handled by Sheriff's Deputy Richard Schildwaster, assisted by Deputy Michael Lute.

Hawley blasts Downstate liberals for giving tax dollars to 'illegal aliens'

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) criticizes Assembly leadership for voting to give taxpayer-funded tuition to illegal aliens.

“Once again, New York City liberals have passed the DREAM Act, which allows illegal aliens access to taxpayer-funded tuition assistance programs on par with legal citizens. At a time when middle-class families are struggling to send their children to college, Assembly leadership prioritizes giving freebies to illegal aliens instead of passing initiatives that help hard-working legal citizens.

“This is yet another in the long line of disgraceful and unconscionable acts that are completely out of line with New Yorkers’ values. Upstate infrastructure is crumbling, the heroin epidemic is ripping apart our families, businesses are leaving the state in droves, and Assembly leadership would rather approve freebies for people who aren’t supposed to be here in the first place.”

Flowers, fruit, veggies, coffee, crafts and more at Downtown Batavia Public Market starting this Friday

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Batavia Business Improvement District (BID) is pleased to announce the beginning of the season for the Genesee Country Farmers’ Market located at the Downtown Batavia Public Market.

The market is located at Bank and Alva streets and will operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays beginning this Friday, June 10th until Oct. 28th.

The market will offer fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, coffee, crafts and more.

Please come this Friday to join the many others who support the newly merged markets and to support the Downtown with this new venture.

For questions regarding the market, please contact Market President Bob Austen at (585) 991-8339.

Mercy Flight's annual Summer Open House at Batavia Home Depot is June 18

By Billie Owens

Press release:

This year is a special year for Mercy Flight WNY as we are celebrating our 35th year of operation.

Batavia Mercy Flight & Mercy EMS will be having our annual summer open house Satruday, June 18th, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Batavia Home Depot, located at 4181 Veterans Memorial Drive, Batavia.

We are planning to have Mercy Flight land at noon for tours as well has have some ambulances from the Mercy EMS fleet on display and tours, too.

During the event we will have various family activities and an ongoing 50/50 and Chinese Auction during the event. 

Their will be various police, and fire departments doing demos and speaking with the community and showing off their vehicles, too. The City of Batavia will also have its Child Safety Seat technicians out to check car seats. If possible, bring both the child and the car seat with you, so they know its properly installed and fits the child using the car seat.

If you have any questions or wish to make a donation for the Chinese auction table, please contact Base Coordinator Lynn O'Donnell at 716-864-5060 or lodonnell@mercyflight.org and she will be happy to assist you.

Donna J. Edenholm

By Billie Owens
Buffalo -- Donna J. Edenholm, 60, of Buffalo, passed away unexpectedly Friday (June 3, 2016) at her home.
 
Donna was born August 26, 1955, in Springville, a daughter of the late Oliver and Ona (Schoembs) Becker. She was the granddaughter of the late Miles and Irene Schoembs.
 
Donna grew up in Alden and was a Girl Scout. She received a bachelor’s degree from Buffalo State College with a major in Business.
 
Donna was a loving mother, grandmother and devoted friend to many. She had a kind and generous nature and was willing to help anyone in need, always putting others' needs before her own. Donna had a huge heart. Donna was known to dress up as a clown for random occasions, Halloween, birthdays and picnics. She enjoyed gardening, especially yellow roses.
 
Donna is survived by her children, Jenn (Fred) Perry, of Batavia, and Sara Edenholm, of Rochester; her dog Max; her grandchildren, Braden and Lauren Perry; her siblings, Diane (Dave) Thomas, of Maryland, Ollie (Timi) Becker, of California, and her twin brother, Doug (Terri) Becker, of Alden. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Donna was a friend of Bill W. for 28 years. She is also survived by her grand-dogs, Daisy, Patches, Lil Lady, Joei and Dallas.
 
Friends may call Friday, June 10th from 1 to 3 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the C. B. Beach & Son Mortuary, Inc., 4 E. Main St., Corfu. Funeral services will follow at 8 p.m.

Patrick Joseph Pedro

By Billie Owens

Patrick Joseph Pedro, age 57, of Cazenovia, NY, passed away on May 28, 2016, after a difficult battle with ALS.

Patrick was born in Pendleton, Ore., on Dec. 7, 1958, and grew up in Oakfield, NY, where he later became the 2008 Inductee in the Oakfield-Alabama High School Alumni Hall of Fame. He received his undergraduate degree from Bucknell University -- magna cum laude and a Law degree from University of Notre Dame and received awards at graduation for legal writing and appellant advocacy. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa.

Patrick was an attorney employed by Bond, Schoeneck and King in Syracuse in 1984, became a partner in 1993 and practiced there his entire career until his retirement at the end of 2014. He practiced primarily in the areas of business law and health care law, and his clients ranged from start up companies to some of the most prominent individuals and businesses in central and northern New York State. At BS&K, he was deputy Dept. chair of the Business Law Dept., chair of the Health Law Practice Group and the Firm's Marketing Partner. Patrick was a graduate of Leadership Greater Syracuse, and a recipient of the 40 under 40 Award in its inaugural year to name just a couple of his recognitions in his professional life.

Patrick enjoyed his family life in the Fayetteville and Manlius area, where he was a member of the FM Education Foundation, worshipped and served at Immaculate Conception Church in Fayetteville.

He was a proponent and patron of the arts. Whether as a performer, board member or audience member the arts were a very important part of Patrick's personal and community life. He served more than 20 years on the Board of the Syracuse Opera Company, some of that time as its president and served as a trustee and president of the Everson Museum of Art. Patrick loved performing as well, participating in numerous shows with the Central New York Community Theatre, including the Shakespeare Festival, Appleseed Productions and The Talent Co.

Every relationship was approached with love and respect, always making others' days and lives better. He not only cherished life but truly cherished his role in the lives of everyone around him.

He is survived by his wife of over 30 years, Julie; and daughters, Melissa and Maria; son-in-law, Jordan Levin; his mother, Margaret Pedro; brothers, Michael, Jeffrey and Andrew Pedro; and sister, Catherine Garrison; and nine nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Joseph Pedro.

Burial was in Fayetteville Cemetery. 

If people would like to give to a cause special to Patrick, contributions to the following organizations would be greatly appreciated. The ALS Association, 890 7th North St. #108, Liverpool NY 13088.- www.alsa.org, or to Immaculate Conception Church, 400 Salt Springs Road, Fayetteville, NY 13066-icfayetteville.org

For a guest book, please visit
www.SCHEPPFAMILY.com

Published in Syracuse Post Standard from May 29 to May 31, 2016.

Samantha Walker of Byron was on Lebanon Valley College's women's track and field team

By Billie Owens

Samantha Walker, of Byron, was one of more than 200 Lebanon Valley College students who played a varsity sport during the 2016 spring season. Walker, a graduate of Byron-Bergen High School, was a member of Lebanon Valley's women's track and field team(s). Walker is pursuing a bachelor of science in Actuarial Science at The Valley.

The Dutchmen finished third at the Outdoor MAC Championships in May. Olivia Jendrzejewski took gold in the high and triple jump events and Jessica Olewine placed silver in the long jump. The women's 4x800 relay and 4x100 both won silver and earned First-Team All-MAC honors. In total, 21 athletes either received gold, silver, or bronze, and All-MAC honors. Jendrzejewski, who was named the MAC Outdoor Field Athlete of the Year, is capped her stellar junior campaign by earning All-America honors at the NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships with a fifth-place finish in the high jump. She also earned USTFCCCA All-Region honors in all three jump events to go along with a CoSIDA Academic All-District nod.

A member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III, American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA), Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC), and Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC), Lebanon Valley College offers 24 sports. More information about LVC athletics is available at godutchmen.com.

Lebanon Valley College is a private, coeducational college founded in 1866 and dedicated to the liberal arts. The College offers 40 undergraduate majors plus self-designed majors and a range of minors, concentrations, and pre-professional options, as well as graduate degree programs in athletic training, business administration, music education, physical therapy, science education, and speech-language pathology.

The College has 1,608 full-time undergraduate students and 108 full-time faculty. Students can choose from more than 90 clubs and organizations, and 12 study abroad programs. LVC awards generous academic scholarships to those whose high school records demonstrate a commitment to challenge and achievement. Learn more at www.lvc.edu.

Annville is 15 minutes east of Hershey and 35 minutes east of Harrisburg; Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Baltimore are within two hours.

BHS to hold premiere cheer camp at Vandetta Stadium in July, registration deadline is July 8

By Billie Owens

Children ages 5 to 12 years old are invited to join the Batavia High School cheerleaders at their premiere cheer camp Friday and Saturday, July 29-30, at Vandetta Stadium. The stadium is located at 120 Richmond Ave. in Batavia.

Both days are mandatory. Cost is $40 and will include a camp T-shirt and pizza on Saturday.

Camp on Friday is from 1 to 5 p.m. On Satruday, it's from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a performance for parents at noon.

There will be a cheer merchandise booth for the participants to purchase extra apparel and bows.

Registration is due by July 8.

Questions? Call Melissa Swinehart at 202-6504 or Sherri Wahr at 356-0639.

****************

Mail registration fee, payable to Batavia Cheer Boosters, along with a piece of paper with the cheerleader's name, age, name of parent or guardian, phone number, and shirt size to:

Batavia High School

Attn: Cheer Booster

260 State St.

Batavia, NY 14020

Catherine McAllister of Batavia to participate in Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery Program

By Billie Owens

Catherine McAllister, of Batavia, who graduated from Duquesne University in May, will participate in the Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery Program, an all-expenses-paid educational and cultural initiative that sends Italian-American students to Italy. Sponsored by the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), the tour will visit Italy’s Piemonte region, NIAF’s 2016 Region of Honor, from June 9 to 23.

McAllister is one of 20 college students selected from across the nation to participate in this program. She was a 2012 Batavia High School graduate and has been awarded a Paolo Busti Scholarship. She is the daughter of Gregg and Debbie Accardi, of Batavia, members of the Paolo Busti Society of Genesee County.

For the fourth consecutive year, participants will give back to the Italian community.  This year, the students will work with school children under the care of the Salesians of Don Bosco at the Mother House, known as Valdocco, in the city of Torino. This NIAF travel program’s benefactor is a member of the Occhienna family, the mother of Saint Don Bosco. Ambassador Peter F. Secchia’s father is a descendent of the Occhienna family.

“The Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery Program affords these young adults an incredible opportunity to further understand the historical significance of Italy and its many contributions to the United States and to the world. The bond these students forge with each other and with Italy will increase their interest in preserving their shared heritage,” said Anita Bevacqua McBride, co-chair of the Foundation’s scholarships and grants committee.

“We are so proud that we are able to offer such a program to young Italian American students. This cornerstone program of the Foundation will strengthen their understanding of their rich culture as they experience the land of their ancestors for the very first time in their lives,” said Gabriella Mileti, NIAF director of programs.

Now in its 17th year, the 14-day NIAF program kicks off with a walking tour of Torino, the first capital of modern Italy and the residence of the Royal Savoy Family. In Torino, the group will visit La Reggia Venaria, one of the residences of the Royal Savoy Family; the Basilica of Superga, the burial place of the Savoy Family; Palazzo Reale, the royal seat of Duke Emanuele Filberto in 1563; and the National Museum of Cinema. The first evening will include a dinner with members of the NIAF Board of Directors at a local agriturismo, a working farmhouse.

The itinerary includes: tours of the Martini & Rossi factory and museum in Asti, one of the renowned centers of wine production; the Borsalino factory, known for its fedoras; and the famed chocolatier Ferrero factory in Alba, home of the white truffle, “tartufo bianco.” Visits to the historic towns Acqui Terme, Alessandria and Neive are also part of the tour. In Nieve, students will visit a 17th century winery “La Cantina del Glicine.” During the program, students will gather to watch Italy play against Ireland, Sweden and Belgium in the Euro Cup 2016. The students also will participate in an excursion on Lake Maggiore to explore Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori.

NIAF is proud to administer the Ambassador Peter F. Secchia Voyage of Discovery Program which includes round-trip airfare between the United States and Italy, accommodations, meals, guided tours and on the ground transportation. For more information, visit www.niaf.org/voyageofdiscovery.

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the heritage of Italian-Americans. Visit www.niaf.org.

Sarah Hill of Corfu now member of Phi Kappa Phi at SUNY Potsdam

By Billie Owens

Sarah Hill, of Corfu, was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation's oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. Hill was initiated at State University of New York at Potsdam.

Hill is among approximately 30,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors, having at least 72 semester hours, are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Founded in 1897 at the University of Maine and headquartered in Baton Rouge, La., Phi Kappa Phi is the nation's oldest and most selective all-discipline honor society. The Society has chapters on more than 300 college and university campuses in North America and the Philippines. Its mission is "To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others."

Goodwill in Batavia to host 'Donate and Shop' with live remote from WBTA radio on Saturday

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Goodwill of Western New York announced that it will hold a “Donate and Shop” event including a live remote with WBTA radio from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, June 11th. The event will be held at Goodwill’s Batavia retail store and donation center located in the Valu Plaza at 4152 W. Main St..

The event will feature a sidewalk sale and most items in the store will be 50-percent off. The community is asked to bring donations of clothing, household goods, books, toys and furniture to help “stuff the truck” that day. Shoppers and donors will have the opportunity to spin the wheel for prizes.

“We have so many great finds in our stores as well as specials every day. We wanted to hold an event to reintroduce our Batavia store, and partnering with WBTA is a great way to do that,” said Linda Maraszek, Marketing and Community Relations Manager at Goodwill. “When you shop and/or donate at Goodwill, you get a great deal, and you help fund job training programs for individuals with barriers to employment.”

About Goodwill Industries of WNY

Since 1920 Goodwill Industries of WNY, Inc., has provided individualized job training and employment programs and services to persons with disabilities and other barriers to employment. Goodwill works to enhance the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families by strengthening communities, eliminating barriers to opportunity, and helping people in need reach their full potential through learning and the power of work. Visit www.goodwillwny.org for more information.

Batavia Muckdogs seek local host families for 2016 baseball season

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Would you like to live with the next Ryan Howard or Chase Utley? 

The Batavia Muckdogs are again seeking local families to assist in housing players during the 2016 baseball season.

Anyone can help provide lodging for this year's Muckdogs by either providing space or renting a room, apartment, or home. While many host families come back year after year, the team is always looking to add to their list of availability for the players.   

Host families play a crucial role in helping young players feel comfortable in a new environment. Many who have hosted players in the past have had incredibly wonderful experiences. However, with players coming and going throughout the season, we have constant needs as far as housing goes.

The 2016 season runs from June 17 until Sept. 5 and players typically range from 18-23 years of age. Because of the players schedule, they typically spend about 40 nights in their host family home. 

Anyone in need of more information on becoming a host family is invited to contact the Muckdogs’ office at (585) 343-5454 or tsick@muckdogs.com. You can also call our housing coordinator Shirley Fanara directly at (585) 356-3411.

****************************************

The Batavia Muckdogs are the short-season, Class A affiliate of the Miami Marlins and are the last remaining founding member of the New York-Penn League, dating back to 1939. The Batavia Muckdogs are operated by the neighboring Rochester Red Wings.

Location: Dwyer Stadium, 299 Bank St., Batavia, NY 14020

Phone: 585-343-5454; Fax: 585-343-5620

Website: www.muckdogs.com

Law and Order: Tracy Avenue woman allegedly punched former coworker the day after she got fired

By Billie Owens

Ana M. Uribe, 22, of Tracy Avenue, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. At 2:57 p.m. on June 2, Uribe was arrested after she allegedly punched a former coworker after being fired from her place of employment the day before. She is to appear in Batavia City Court on June 14. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Cowen Mitchell, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Christina A. Cotter, 23, of Ellicott Street, Batavia, is charged with first-degree criminal contempt, second-degree criminal contempt, endangering the welfare of a child, and second-degree harassment. She was arrested on the charges June 2. They stem from a domestic incident at noon on May 28 wherein Cotter is alleged to have been involved in a physical altercation with another person who had an order of protection against her. She was jailed without bail and was due back in City Court on June 3. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay and Officer Marc Lawrence.

Gary D. Burney, 35, of Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with first-degree criminal contempt, endangering the welfare of a child, two counts of fourth-degree criminal mischief, and second-degree harassment. He was arrested at 11:30 a.m. on June 4 following a domestic incident wherein he allegedly shoved a person and damaged the person's property all while in the presence of a child. He was jailed on $5,000 bail and is be appear today in City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Sgt. Christopher Camp.

Jennifer N. Wenner, 29, of Hutchins Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property in the third degree. Steffon G. Philip, 30, of Madison Street, Rochester, is also charged with criminal possession of stolen property in the third degree. At 10:41 p.m. on May 30, Batavia police observed a stolen vehicle in the area of East Main and Swan streets. Officers arrested Wenner, who was allegedly found operating the stolen vehicle. She was jailed on $5,000 bail. They also arrested Philip, who was allegedly found with the stolen vehicle. Both were due in City Court on May 31. The cases were handled by Batavia Police Officer Mitchell Cowen, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Luis D. Chavez, 23, of Lewiston Road, Oakfield, is charged with operating a motor vehicle on a pubic highway while using a mobile phone, driving while intoxicated, and driving with a BAC of .08 percent or higher. The charges stem from an accident at 9:57 p.m. on May 25 on State Street in Batavia. It is alleged that Chavez was on his mobile phone, not paying attention to the roadway, and struck a parked car on the east side of State Street, just north of North Street. During the investigation, Cahvez was also allegedly found to have been intoxicated by alcohol. He was released on appearance tickets and is due to appear on those charges in City Court June 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Chad Richards, assisted by Sgt. Christopher Camp.

Robert J. Donovan II, 38, of Oak Street, Le Roy, is charged with inadequate rear lamp and second-degree aggravated unlicensed operator. At 9:23 p.m. on May 22, Batavia police conducted a traffic stop on a motorcycle in the area of Oak Street and Richmond Avenue in the city and found Donovan to be operating the motorcycle with a suspended license with a total of 10 suspensions. He was arrested and later posted bail. He was to appear in City Court on June 1. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins.

Quinton L. Spinks, 31, of Vine Street, Batavia, is charged with first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation and failure to obey a traffic control device. Spinks was arrested at 9:32 p.m. on May 28 following a traffic stop on Washington Avenue. Spinks was stopped after allegedly driving on a closed road and was found to be operating with active suspensions on his NY ID. He was jailed without bail and was due in City Court on May 31. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Cowen Mitchell.

Benjamin D. Chudoba, 23, of Swan Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested around 8:50 p.m. on May 27 as the result of an investigation into a traffic offense that occurred a short time earlier. Chudoba was allegedly found to be in poessession of heroin, and subsequently charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th. He was processed at Batavia PD headquarters and issued an appearance ticket. Chudoba is scheduled to be in Batavia City Court on June 7. The case has handled by Batavia Police Officer Eric Foels, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Benjamin G. Evans IV, 27, of Maple Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. He was arrested at 12:57 a.m. on May 20 following an investigation into a larceny complaint wherein it is alleged he stole a toolbox of items. He was released on an appearance ticket and is to be in City Court on May 31. Batavia Police Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk, assisted by Officer Matthew Lutey.

Makayla E. Stickley, 19, of Gibsonville Road, Leicester, is charged with issuing a bad check. She was arrested on an active warrant out of Batavia City Court for allegedly issuing a bad check on Nov. 23. She did not respond to a summons and a warrant was issued for her arrest. She is to appear in City Court on June 7. The case was handled by Officer Chad Richards, assisted by Officer Arick Perkins.

Winston Ashton Lockhart, 21, of Pringle Avenue, Batavia, was arrested on two active bench warrant out of City of Batavia for failing to pay fines stemming from an incident in November on West Main Street, Batavia. Lockhard was located by Batavia Police Officer James DeFreeze while on an unrelated complaint. He was arrested then released and issued two computer-generated appearance tickets for May 31 in City Court. Officer DeFreeze was assisted by Officer Marc Lawrence.

Joseph W. Freeman, 32, of Platten Road, Lyndonville, was charged with petit larceny on Feb. 12 on West Main Street, Batavia. He had an active bench warrant for failing to appear in court as directed. He was located by police at a residence in the city and put in jail on $500 bail. He was due in City Court on June 1. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Frank Klimjack, assisted by Sgt. Dan Coffey.

Tiffany Lynn George, 29, of Council House Road, Alabama, is charged with the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle in the third degree. She was arrested at 4:18 p.m. on June 5 on Council House Road following an incident in the Town of Alabama. George allegedly took and used a motor vehicle without the owner's concent. She is set to appear in Town of Alabama Court on June 30. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Michael Lute, assisted by Deputy Chris Parker.

Kimberly M. Volk, 27, of Maltby Road, Oakfield, was arrested on May 28 on a bench warrant out of Batavia City Court. It was issued after she failed to appear on a March 31 charge of criminal use of drug paraphernalia in the second degree. She was jailed on $1,000 bail and was due back in court on May 31. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Frankie Jean McQueen, 25, of Snipery Road, Corfu, is charged with failure to appear. On May 27, the Genesee County Sheriff's Office turned over McQueen to Batavia PD and she was arrested on a bench warrant issued out of Batavia City Court. The warrant was issued due to failure to appear in court in November 2014. McQueen was ordered to be in court on June 7 and then turned over to NYSP on a separate warrant out of Warsaw. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins.

Go to the Batavia Rotary Club Fly-In Breakfast and tour new airport terminal

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Batavia Rotary Club has announced that its 2016 Fly-In Breakfast will be held Sunday, June 19 (Father’s Day) at the Genesee County Airport, 4701 Saile Drive, Batavia, from 7 a.m. to noon.

Rotarians will cook breakfast for more than 1,500 guests, as well as dozens of pilots who will fly their aircraft to the Batavia airport that morning.

Tickets are $8 for adults; $5 for children ages 4 to 12; and free for children under the age of 4. 

Residents throughout Western New York are invited to enjoy breakfast, meet the pilots, and view their aircraft.  The Fly-In Breakfast menu will feature sausage, eggs, pancakes, and beverages. Over the years, the volunteer Rotarian-cooks have become known for their “any-way-you-want-them” omelets, which will once again be available. Tickets for the event may be obtained from any member of the Batavia Rotary Club or at the door.

Saile Drive is located just north of the City of Batavia and the Batavia exit of the New York State Thruway, off Route 98.

All proceeds from the event benefit the Batavia Rotary Club’s programs for youth and community programs. Last year, the Club donated more than $100,000 to charitable causes.  

Fly-In Breakfast Co-Chair Edmund Leising said that the airport’s expanded facilities may attract more guests this year.

“We’ll have a record number of volunteers hosting and cooking the morning of the 19th,” he said. “Guests will have the chance to talk with pilots, view their aircraft, and see all the changes made at the county airport.”

Big thanks for Sixth Annual Unity in the Community

By Billie Owens

A BIg Thanks to All for the Sixth Annual Unity in the Community!

I would like to thank everyone that attended our Sixth Annual Unity in the Community last Sunday, May 29th, at Williams Park, Batavia, especially the Williams family (Della and Amos), whom suffered a tragic loss.

I also would like to thank several sponsors who donated to our event: Ken Mistler from City Slickers, Paul Berardini of Big Pauly’s Pizza, Wendy Caraballo and Brandon Armstrong of Royals Barbershop/Salon, McDonald’s for the kids’ certificates, and Jacqueline Patterson and Freda Polk from Darien Lake.

I would also like to thank the incredible staff that put this whole event together: Denise Pask, Fawn and Marcus Mobley, Kristy Turner, Alicia Phillips, Kayla Griffin, Chris Mcclinic, Terry Smith, Edward Woods Jr, Ken Griffin, Ray Williams and Blake Polito of AudioHeartbeat, Jerry Smith, Kelly James, Katie Ettinger, Victor Thomas, Katrina Bloom, Alyssa McKenzie and Tzyonah Reese.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for providing such a wonderful event for not only the kids, but for the adults as well. Here’s to an awesome next year! Keep up the good work!

Jessica Polk

Batavia

Law and Order: Wyoming teen charged with third-degree assault in Pavilion

By Billie Owens

Nicholas Tyler Stutes, 18, of Wyoming Road, Wyoming, is charged with third-degree assault. He was arrested at 11 a.m. on June 2 following a complaint and investigation of an assault on Big Tree Road in Pavilion. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Ryan DeLong.

Jenna T. Girolamo, 18, of Sutters Run, Rochester, and a 16-year-old female from Churchville, are charged with making graffiti, a misdemeanor, and trespass, a violation. The two defendants were allegedly found trespassing in Buttermilk Falls, Route 19, Le Roy, at 7:40 p.m. on June 4. They were also found to have allegedly made graffiti in the same area. They were arrested on the charges and issued appearance tickets for July 18 in Town of Le Roy Court. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy J.M. Diehl, and Le Roy PD officers E. Blodgett and Dent.

A 17-year-old male from Byron and a 17-year-old male from Bergen are charged with trespass, a violation. The two defendants were allegedly found trespassing in Buttermilk Falls, Route 19, Le Roy, at 7:40 p.m. on June 4. They were arrested on the charge and issued appearance tickets for July 18 in Town of Le Roy Court. They were accompanied by two females (previously cited above). All were removed from the property. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy J.M. Diehl, and Le Roy PD officers E. Blodgett and Dent.

Sheriff's sergeant and deputy continue to learn and grow professionally

By Billie Owens

Genesee County Sheriff's Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello (center) upon completion of the Civil Supervisors’ Training Program with (l to r) Broome County Sheriff Dave Harder, Cortland County Sheriff Mark Helms, Sheriffs’ Association President/Herkimer County Sheriff Chris Farber, and Saratoga County Sheriff Mike Zurlo.

Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Patrick Reeves (center) upon completion of Phase 2 of the Statewide Civil Law Enforcement School, Albany County Chief Deputy Paul Courcelle (left) and Sheriffs’ Institute Executive Director Chris O’Brien (right).

 

Submitted photos and press release:

Sixty deputy sheriffs and civilian staff from 43 Sheriff’s offices around the state attended the New York State Sheriffs' Association/Sheriffs’ Institute Civil Supervisors’ Training Conference in May at the Gideon Putnam Hotel in Saratoga Springs, including Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello. The three-day training program is part of a training series offered each year.

Additionally, 37 deputy sheriffs and civilian staff from 20 Sheriff’s offices around the state completed Phase 2 of a specialized training program in Civil Law Enforcement at the Albany County Courthouse in May, including Deputy Patrick Reeves. Deputy Reeves completed Phase 1 training in April of this year. This week‐long Phase 2 Civil Basic School is sponsored by the New York State Sheriffs' Association Institute.

The school is required for counties seeking to earn accreditation of its civil office from the New York State Sheriffs’ Association. The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office Civil Bureau is accredited. The training is provided without charge to any civil personnel nominated for the school by a sheriff.

All sheriffs have civil law enforcement functions, including the service of process and enforcement of judgments and other court orders and mandates. These conferences provide participants with training in the latest advances in civil law enforcement and a forum to discuss current civil law enforcement issues and share best practices.

NYSSA is a not-for-profit corporation formed in 1934 to assist New York’s Sheriffs in the effective delivery of services to the public. It comprises all 58 sheriffs in New York State. The Sheriffs’ Institute was established in 1979 to advance criminal justice education, prevent juvenile delinquency, support victims of crime and their families, and provides the only statewide training program for civil deputies.

Tri-Town wins Michael Napoleone 12U Tournament in remarkable game against Le Roy Knights

By Billie Owens

Above from left: Nick Martin, Alex Ellison, Vinny DiRisio, Zach Howard, C.J. Gottler (seated), Bryn Wormley, Luke Rogers, Zach Marsceill (seated), Matt Fellinger, and Connor Willitt.  Coach Vern Howard and Coach Durin Rogers pictured to the rear.

Opening ceremonies.

Fellinger coming home for the winning run.

Fellinger under the tag for the win.

Rogers being congratulated for the walk-off triple.​

Submitted photos and story by Coach Durin Rogers.

Tri-Town 12U beat the Le Roy Knights 12U in what would prove to be a legendary game during the eighth Annual Michael Napoleone Tournament over Mermorial Day Weekend.

The Tournament is hosted by The Michael Napoleone Memorial Foundation, Inc., which was established in 2007 and is in memory of Michael C. Napoleone, the 8-year-old son of Mark and Laurie Napoleone from Batavia who died from Burkitts Lymphoma/Leukemia, an aggressive form of blood cancer. During Michael’s illness, the community rallied around the family to assist with food, gas, medical bills and other necessities. The not-for-profit foundation was created to give back to those who cared, to give forward to those in need and to support research efforts in finding a cure for childhood cancer.

The 2016 victory was bittersweet for Tri-Town, who had lost to the Le Roy Knights in extra innings during the 2015 Tourney. Tri-Town and Le Roy had each won their three games in the tournament that began Friday and ended with the Championship on Sunday May, 29th. Tri-Town defeated the WNY Spartans 10-0 and 13-5; Fairport Red Rage 12-2; Greece Gladiators 21-1.

Both Tri-Town and the Le Roy Knights had strong showings in all of their games and depth at pitching. Tri-Town pulled home-field advantage, having held its opponents to fewer runs than Le Roy over the tournament. Zach Howard received the call to open pitching for Tri-Town, while the lefty Collin McCauley got the nod for Le Roy.

Following strong pitching by Howard and McCauley and a scoreless first inning, Le Roy then sparked its offense scoring two runs in the top of the second inning on a well-placed double by Zach Vanderhoof and error by Tri-Town. Le Roy held Tri-Town without score in the bottom of the second and added two more runs to its cause in the top of the third inning. Tri-Town then broke out in the bottom of the third inning on the bats of Luke Rogers (1B), Connor Willitt (1B) and Vinny DiRisio (1B) scoring Zach Marsceill, Matt Fellinger and Rogers.

Nick Martin then took the mound for Tri-Town at the top of the fourth inning following a strong outing by Howard limiting the Le Roy team to four runs over the three innings. Le Roy scored another run in the top of the fourth on a McCauley double and a Brady Fix single before Martin struck out the final two batters to end Le Roy's fourth inning run.

 Le Roy’s power pitcher, Kenny Saunders, brought heat to bear on Tri-Town’s lineup. Yet, Tri-Town's Alex Ellison’s lead-off double in the bottom of the fourth along with his speed on the bases led to a Tri-Town score, keeping the game close in the 5-4 battle at the end of four.

At the top of the fifth inning, Le Roy poured it on scoring three additional runs on a double by McCauley and another single by Fix. Tri-Town would add to its cause scoring two runs on hits by Howard (1B) , Martin (1B), and Rogers (1B), to make the game an 8-6 affair in favor of Le Roy. Le Roy was then stymied by Tri-Town's defense and Martin's pitching in the top of the sixth inning, leaving the score at 8-6 LeRoy and providing Tri-Town one last opportunity at bat.

Tri-Town's Ellison led off with a solid double. Le Roy pitcher Saunders and Le Roy's stellar defense resulted in the next two outs in the field with a runner on second. Tri-Town's Bryn Wormley's quick reaction and legs beat out a throw to first base following a dropped third strike, putting runners on first and second.  Tri-Town's Fellinger had an epic at bat when he proceeded to foul off the next 11 pitches to a startled crowd before earning the walk to load the bases.

This year, Tri-Town would not be denied. With two puts and two strikes, Tri-Town's lead-off batter Luke Rogers, and birthday boy, hit a towering shot to the right field fence, clearing the bases and winning the game with a walk-off triple.

The Tri-Town team stats were nothing short of impressive during the tournament, accumulating 59 hits over five games representing 24 innings. One grand slam (Connor Willitt), 10-HR (Zach Howard 2 HR; Vinny DiRisio 2 HR; Nick Martin; CJ Gottler; Connor Willitt; Matt Fellinger), 2-3B (Luke Rogers 2-3B), 11-2B (Luke Rogers 5-2B; Alex Ellison 2-2B; Bryn Wormley 2-2B);and 39-1B contributed by the entire team for a tournament high, team-batting average of .538.

Law and Order: Batavia woman allegedly stole items from two different neighbors' yards

By Billie Owens

Jeanna Marie Hattaway, 29, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with two counts of petit larceny. On May 31, at 8:30 p.m. Hattaway was arrested after allegedly stealing various items from two separate neighbors' yards in the area. She was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Batavia Court at 1 p.m. on July 7. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Michael Lute.

Joseph Alexander Mazuera-Cortes, 27, of Blackburn Lane, Mount Hope, Ontario, Canada, is charged with driving while intoxicated, and operation of a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 percent or 1 percent or more. At 12:55 a.m. today, the subject was allegedly driving a motor vehicle in an area that was restricted to pedestrians at the Darien Lake Campgrounds, 9993 Alleghany Road, Darien. When questioned by Darien Lake security, he allegedly attempted to flee the area, driving erratically through the campground. He allegedly drove down a restricted lane into a heavilty wooded area before stopping. He was taken into custody by security officers. He was allegedly found to be intoxicated and arrested for DWI. The case was handled by Sheriff's Sgt. John Baiocco.

Dakota David Swimline, 19, of Trumbull Parkway, Batavia, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Following an investigation of a liquor law violation complaint on Farnsworth Avenue in the Village of Oakfield, Swimline was arrested at 1:13 a.m. today after allegedly being found in possession of a small amount of marijuana hash oil in the front pocket of his pants. He was issued an appearance ticket of Town of Oakfield Court and is to appear there June 27. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Eric Meyer, assisted by Deputy Andrew Hale.

Sterna Gettel Grunwald, 31, of McNamara Road, Spring Valley, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. The defendant was stopped following the observation of vehicle and traffic violations on Route 63 in the Town of Batavia at 11:15 p.m. on May 30. An odor of marijuana was allegedly detected emanating from the vehicle and Grunwald was allegedly found in possession of marijuana. Grunwald was issued an appearance ticket for Town of Batavia Court at a later date. The case was handled by Sheriff's Deputy Ryan DeLong, assisted by Deputy Eric Meyer.

The eagle has landed on Bank Street Road

By Billie Owens

A deputy is responding to 7673 Bank Street Road, Town of Batavia, for a report of an eagle on the front lawn.

UPDATE 10:58 a.m.: The animal control officer returned to the shelter. No word on the eagle.

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