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A 55-year-old male is stuck under a piece of equipment at 6544 Alleghany Road, Alabama. Mercy Flight's availability is being checked. Alabama Fire Department and Mercy medics are responding. The location is between Lewiston Road and Church Street.

UPDATE 2:48 p.m.: The man was pinned under a vehicle; is now out.

(File photo of the Sweet Life Country Store.)

The Grand Opening of the Sweet Life Country Store & Oliver's Candy Factory in Elba will take place Friday and Saturday, Oct. 19-20, with tours, vendors, live music, giveaways and more.

The completely refurbished building is located at 100 S. Main St. (Route 98) in Elba.

On Friday, Oct. 19, there will be candy factory tours and plenty of giveaways, starting at 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Then on Saturday, Oct. 20, also from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a trio of vendors will be on site selling their products: Jackie's Jams; Peg's Produce; and Vicki Price Jewelry.

Circle B Winery will offer wine and chocolate tasting. There will be giveaways galore and candy factory tours will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony with representatives of the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce will take place that Saturday at noon.

Josh Hawkins will perform live music Oct. 20 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Everybody is welcome and encouraged to attend.

In an exclusive interview with The Batavian on June 14, Oliver's Candies co-owner and Vice President Jeremy Liles shared the 80-year-old company's plans to triple its confectionary manufacturing capacity by moving its kitchen operation entirely to the newly acquired Elba facility. (Here's that story.)

Those plans also included the 1,000-square-foot retail store at the front of the property that offers candy, ice cream, Oliver's custom-roasted coffee, country-style Americana crafts, and more.

(Below is a file photo of the new candy kitchen in Elba where all of Oliver's Candies are now made.)

Press release:

On Thursday, Oct. 4, rain or shine, students in the Oakfield-Alabama Central School District will be participating in national "Walk to School Day."

Students will be meeting at Triangle Park in Oakfield, near Santino's pizzeria, at 7 a.m. for the Middle/High School walk and at 7:50 a.m. for the Elementary School walk.

Teachers and staff have volunteered to walk with students to ensure this event is fun and safe. Students will then be treated to a free breakfast at the schools, located at 7001 Lewiston Road in Oakfield.

National Walk to School Day is observed annually in October as a day to get out and get some exercise while enjoying the weather.

Walking is one of the best forms of exercise. It isn’t hard on joints and feet like running and jogging but still gives all the advantages.

The goal of this day is to raise awareness and support for the health, community and environmental benefits of regularly walking or biking to school.

Organized by the Partnership for a Walkable America, Walk to School Day in the USA began in 1997 as a one-day event aimed at building awareness for the need for walkable communities.

KISS THIS photo from Batavia Downs.

KISS THIS -- the East Coast's premiere KISS tribute band, based in Buffalo, will be the stars of a meet-and-greet photo op in full regalia at Foxprowl Collectables on Tuesday (Oct. 2).

Its members are Kevin Blakita - Paul Stanley (Starchild), John Jeffrey - Ace Frehley (Spaceman), Julius Giambelluca - Eric Carr (the Fox), Bradley Heath - Eric Singer (The Catman), Taylor Stursa - Gene Simmons (The Demon).

Fans are welcome to do some "KISSmas" shopping early since all KISS collectibles will be 10 percent off during the band's brief store visit -- from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Foxprowl relocated to its old digs, at 440 Ellicott St. in the City of Batavia.

Also, KISS THIS will appear in concert Saturday Oct. 13 at Batavia Downs. Tickets are $10. Doors open at 7 p.m.; concert starts at 8. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

For concert tickets, click here.

Photo: Alexander High School JV and Varsity Volleyball players are looking forward to an Oct.10th fundraiser game to benefit Breast Cancer Network of Western New York.                 

Submitted photo and press release:

The Alexander Volleyball Booster Club is hosting its seventh annual fundraising game on Wednesday, Oct. 10, when the Lady Trojans take on the Oakfield-Alabama/Elba Hornets.

The fun begins at 5 p.m. with the JV game, followed by the Varsity game at 6:30 p.m. Alexander Central School is located at 3314 Buffalo St. in Alexander.

The event features theme baskets, a pizza and bake sale and a serving contest for a chance to win prizes donated by area businesses and volleyball families.

Fundraiser co-chairs Colette Yax and Laura Marzolf announce the charity selected to receive proceeds from the 2018 event is the Breast Cancer Network of Western New York.

“This is an organization that supports, educates and advocates for people with breast cancer and breast cancer survivors,” Marzolf said.

“A breast cancer diagnosis is devastating for an individual and their loved ones,” Yax said. “We are happy to support an organization committed to helping people through this difficult time.”

In addition to the theme baskets and serving contests, co-chair Marzolf said a special prize is being raffled off at the event.

“We have a Sabres ticket package for two 200–level seats, including a parking pass for the October 30th game against the Calgary Flames,” Marzoff said.

Community members wishing to donate to the Alexander event may contact Colette Yax at 716-400-3628 or Laura Marzolf at 585-322-3748.

NOTICE

The Justice for Children GLOW Foundation Lip Sync Battle scheduled for this Saturday, Oct. 6, at Center Street Smoke House in Batavia has been cancelled.

Please visit the website at www.justiceforchildrenadvocacycenter.org to learn more about Child Advocacy Centers and for information on upcoming events. 

New York State Police based out of Troop A, Zone I, conducted a Sobriety Checkpoint in the Town of Darien as well as a dedicated DWI patrol in Genesee County, Friday night Sept. 28, into Saturday morning, Sept. 29. Two people were arrested for DWI during the detail and are to appear in the Town of Darien court at a later date: Sarah E. Convis, 32, of New Woodstock; and Pamela S. Bradshaw, 46, of Pennsylvania. In addition, Daryl L. Ford, 31, of Niagara Falls, was arrested for fifth-degree criminal possession of marijuana after being stopped for traffic infraction. He was also charged with second-degree aggravated unlicensed operation. He was issued an appearance ticket to return at a later date. Also, Jerard L. Cramer, 31, of Buffalo, was arrested for: felony first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation; unlawful possession of marijuana; driving without required ignition interlock device, and numerous other vehicle and traffic infractions. He was arraigned and released to appear in court at another date.

Melody J. McMaster, 47, of Washington Avenue, Batavia, is charged with trespass. At 10:15 a.m. on Sept. 23, McMaster was arrested on Harvester Avenue in the City of Batavia. She had previously been advised not to be on the property by police prior to this incident. She is due in Batavia City Court on Oct. 2. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jason Davis, assisted by Officer Darryle Streeter.

Rachel Britanny Soloman, 26, of North Lake Road, Pembroke, is charged with: criminal contempt in the second degree; endangering the welfare of a child; obstruction of governmental administration in the second degree; and resisting arrest. Solomon was arrested as a result of an investigation into a reported violation of a court order. It is alleged that she violated an order of protection by being at the residence of the protected party on Meadville Road on the Tonawanda Indian Reservation at 11:15 a.m. on Sept. 29. She allegedly became uncooperative during the investigation and her actions place a child in danger. She was arrested, arraigned in Town of Alabama Court and jailed in lieu of $10,000 cash bail. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Richard Schildwaster, assisted by Deputy Jeremy McClellan.

Michael L. Jennings, 54, of Jackson Street, Batavia, is charged with owning an unlicensed dog. He was arrested at 6:41 p.m. on Sept. 21 and issued an appearance ticket. He is due in Batavia City Court on Oct. 9. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Catherine Mucha.

Marc C. Cook, 28, of Church Street, Basom, is charged with failure to appear. He was arrested and arraigned on Sept. 29 in Batavia City Court on two arrest warrants for failure to appear in city court. He was jailed in lieu of $1,000 cash bail or bond. He was due in city court today (Oct. 1). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Marc Lawrence.

Jaequele M. Tomlin, 23, of Main Street, Le Roy, and Darazian W. Williams, 25, of Hutchins Street, Batavia, are both charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Tomlin and Williams were arrested for allegedly possessing marijuana during an investigation following a traffic stop. This occurred at 6:18 p.m. on Sept. 28 on Ellicott Street in Batavia. The defendants are due in city court on Oct. 9 to answer the charge. The cases were handled by Batavia Police Officer Catherine Mucha, assisted by Sgt. Dan Coffey.

Volunteer drivers are needed throughout Genesee County.

The Volunteer Transportation Center Inc. (VTC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing transportation to non-emergent medical appointments through a network of volunteer drivers. Transportation is provided specifically to those who have Medicaid through a partnership with Medicaid Answering Services, the local Medicaid transportation broker.

“Becoming a volunteer driver is extremely rewarding,” says Luanne VanBrocklin, New Program Implementation director. “What better way to give back to the community than to give a few hours of your time ensuring someone in need receives the medical care they deserve.”

All volunteer drivers must complete an application process which includes a background check, and extensive training. Volunteers are then issued a tablet on which trips are assigned to them to serve local residents. For each trip completed, there is mileage reimbursement of $0.545 per mile for miles driven. However, there is no cost to the client for the transportation.

“Our goal is to make a difference in people’s lives by giving access to the health care they need,” says VanBrocklin.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a volunteer driver, call the Volunteer Transportation Center at (585) 250-5030 or visit www.VolunteerTransportationCenter.org to complete an application today.

The Volunteer Transportation Center Inc. (VTC), was established in 1991 in Northern New York. Over the last 20 years this essential nonprofit organization has provided rides to medical destinations. The staff, Board of Directors and volunteer drivers look forward to a time when transportation to services is accessible to all regardless of economic or special needs.

On Wednesday, Oct. 3, at 7 p.m. Pulitzer Prize winning professor of History from New York University Steven Hahn will discuss his latest book "A Nation Without Borders" at Genesee Community College.

This is an important reinterpretation of 19th century America — a kind of coming-of-age story especially significant for its contribution to the scholarship on the Civil War period.

“A massive and masterly account of America’s political and economic transformation between 1830 and 1910 . . . Hahn describes his book as telling ‘a familiar story in an unfamiliar way.’ It is much more than that. Attempting a synthesis of a century’s worth of American history is a daunting task. Writing one as provocative and learned . . . as this one is a triumph, nothing less.” – David Oshinsky, The Washington Post

The lecture will be in room T102 of the Conable Technology Building; it is free and open to the public.

The Yale-educated Hahn had none other than Southern historian and scholar C. Vann  Woodward (Nov. 13, 1908 -- Dec. 17, 1999) as his academic advisor. Hahn is also a recipient of the prestigious Bancroft Prize, which is awarded each year by the trustees of Columbia University for books about diplomacy or the history of the Americas. It was established in 1948 by a bequest from Frederic Bancroft.

Hahn was awarded the Pulitizer Prize for History for his 2004 book "A Nation Under Our Feet."

"This is big news for GCC," said GCC Associate Professor of History Derek D. Maxfield in an email. "He is our third Pulitzer Prize winner in three years. Copies of his book will be available for sale (and signing)."

Press release:

On Sunday, Sept. 30, at about 4 p.m., a shop lifting took place at Tops supermarket. The suspect attempted to steal 12 cases of Tide Pods. The suspect was confronted by staff, and then fled the scene on foot.

It was believed the suspect may have fled to the Tonawanda Creek bank. Genesee County Sheriff Deputy Erion and K9 Destro were requested to assist in the search. The search was unsuccessful. Attached is the best picture available at this time.

The City of Batavia is asking for the community’s help in identifying the suspect. If anyone has information please contact Officer Lawrence at (585) 345-6350.

(Initial Post)

A manhunt is underway in the city for a would-be shoplifter who fled Tops Friendly Market within the last half hour, abandoning a cart with items he allegedly intended to steal.

Customers followed him and city police joined the pursuit, which had been by South Lyons Street and wound up in the vicinity of the old sewer plant off South Main Street. 

State troopers and Sheriff's Deputy Chris Erion and canine Destro (in photo above) are also searching the area. 

The only description of the suspect at this point is that he's a white male wearing a black plaid shirt and possibly eyeglasses.

UPDATE 4:52 p.m.: The suspect is described as being in his mid-40s, balding, and also wearing jeans and white sneakers.

UPDATE 5:20 p.m.: The manhunt continues with Destro and his handler, Deputy Erion, focusing on the north side of the Tonawanda Creek.

UPDATE 6:06 p.m.: The manhunts continues, with a BOLO that's updated to say the suspect has on a red hoodie over a long-sleeved shirt, dark pants, and "bright shoes."

From the simple to the sublime, whether kitschy and corny, or clever and crafty, expect a wide range of getups at the inaugural "Puppy Paw-rade & Costume Contest" at Darien Lake Theme Park on Saturday, Oct. 6.

Registration fees for this event, offered in conjunction with Volunteers for Animals, will be donated to the Genesee County Animal Shelter and the SPCA of Erie County.

The flier says there will be plenty of "pup-arazzi photo opportunities." 

Plenty of pet vendors will be there, too.

Time is 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration/check-in begins at 11; paw-rade starts at noon; costume contest is at 1 o'clock.

All humans and canines welcome. All dogs MUST have proof of vaccination for rabies and distemper.

Price is $15 at the door. The theme park is located at 9993 Alleghany Road (Route 77) in Darien Center.

Participants will get free admission to the park for the dog and owner -- plus one free return admission for Fright Fest. There's also a free "wag bag" for participants. 

Additional tickets for family members and friends will be available for $20 each. 

Prizes, including a 2019 Season Pass, will be given for:

• Most Creative
• Cutest
• Funniest

Don't be shy! Dress to the nines and strut your stuff with your furry bestie!

For more information, visit darienlake.com/puppypawrade

A downloadable registration form is available at the website above, which can be printed, completed and brought with you to facilitate registration at the door.

Here are the rules and restrictions:

• Do NOT leave dog(s) in vehicles;
• You are responsible for cleaning up after your dog;
• Dogs cannot be tied up or left alone at anytime;
• Dogs must be on a leash at all times;
• All dogs must be out of the park by 2 p.m.

A portion of the ceiling fell down inside the TA Travel Center. No smoke or flames, but the electricity is live and there was some sparking. The area inside where this occurred was not specified. No injuries reported. Pembroke and Indian Falls fire departments are responding.

UPDATE 12:12 p.m.: A code enforcement officer from the Town of Darien is responding.