A second person has been charged in the death and apparent dumping of the body at a location in the town of Alabama in March.
Norman S. "Bud" DeBois, 45, of Lockport, is charged with hindering prosecution in the first degree, a Class D felony, tampering with physical evidence, a Class E felony, concealment of a human corpse, a Class E felony, and conspiracy in the fifth degree, a Class A misdemeanor.
Previously, on April 19, Kathryn A. "Kit" Henry, 33, of Lockport, was charged with murder in the second degree, a Class A-1 felony, assault in the first degree, a Class B felony, concealment of a human corpse, a Class E felony, hindering prosecution in the first degree, a Class D felony, tampering with physical evidence, a Class E felony, conspiracy in the second degree, a Class B felony, and conspiracy in the fourth degree, a Class E felony.
On March 19, deputies found the body of Michael G. Poole, 59, of Olcott, during an investigation into a missing person report.
A third person is also expected to be charged. The Sheriff's Office said there is no threat to public safety. That person is in custody on unrelated charges.
DeBois was arraigned on Friday and released under supervision. He is scheduled to appear in Alabama Town Court on July 16.
The Western Regional OTB Board of Directors passed multiple resolutions at its regular meeting on Thursday.
Highlights:
Hire Kim Crawford at a cost of $155,661 to maintain the race track in 2024 and 2025, which includes resurfacing, rebanking, and maintaining the track at the highest possible level. The contract runs July 27 through Feb 27 (72 live race dates) and July 26, 2025 through Dec. 6, 2025 (56 live race dates).
Contract with Quality Inn and Suites, 8250 Park Road, Batavia, to provide four units at the hotel to accommodate up to nine groomers, required under an agreement with the New York Horsemen's Association, at a cost not to exceed $40,000. Quality Inn and Suites was the only hotel in the area that responded to a request for proposal.
Contract with the Genesee County Sheriff's Office is to provide law enforcement officers with assistance with security at Batavia Downs from June 1 to May 31, 2025, at a cost of $150,000.
Contract with Batavia PD to provide law enforcement officers for additional security at the concert venue on concert nights, June 10 through Aug. 31, for a cost of $35,000.
In order to provide additional parking for customers, contract with DAB LLC to allow parking in the former Kmart parking lot at a cost of $80,000.
CEO Henry Wojtaszek's departure from Western Regional OTB really is a decision rooted in consensus with the Board of Directors, he said on Thursday evening, hours after the board voted 14-1 to buy out his contract
His last official day with the company will be Dec. 31.
"For my part, this is something I've discussed with a few members for a few months," Wojtaszek said.
The Batavian asked if he would further explain his decision and he declined to elaborate.
There have been rumors that he intended to run for elected office in Niagara County. He said that's not his intention at this time.
"You know, people have asked me about that many times," Wojtaszek said. "I really have no idea at this time what I'm going to be doing. Like I told people today, I plan to practice law. That's what I did before. I came here, and I was general counsel first. So, I plan to do that. Anything other than that, we will deal with it at the time."
Wojtaszek started with the company in 2010 and became CEO in 2016. His salary is $264,898.
The agreement approved by the board provides Wojtaszek with a full year's salary, to be paid out on Dec. 15.
In the same motion that signaled the eventual end of Wojtaszek's career with the OTB, the board also approved buyouts for CFO Jackie Leach, and VP of Operations William White.
They will each receive a half-year's salary, paid out on Dec. 15 also, at the end of their employment in 2025.
In a regular monthly meeting on Thursday, the board of directors for Western Regional Off-Track Betting voted to buy out the contracts of CEO Henry Wojtaszek, CFO Jackie Leach, and VP of Operations William White.
The board called the buyout a "renegotiation."
Board President Dennis Bassett issued a press release after the meeting stating, "We have mutually renegotiated these contracts in the best interest of each individual and our corporation."
The statement characterized it as an "amicable separation."
In a statement issued after the meeting, Wojtaszek said:
I’ve enjoyed my 15 years here at Batavia Downs, and I want to thank the board and all of our 400 employees for their support. My focus now will be on ensuring a seamless transition to new leadership.
I see a great future for this organization as they build upon many of our accomplishments that have made Batavia Downs a first-class entertainment venue.
After the meeting, when asked if this change in job status didn't constitute a firing, Basset said, "It's at their request."
He also said there was no political pressure to status change.
"We don't run this organization based on politics," Bassett said. "This is a business. There's no political pressure here to do anything."
Wojtaszek started with the company in 2010 as general counsel and became CEO in 2016. His salary is $264,898.
Under the terms of the agreement with Wojtaszek, the CEO will leave his job on Dec. 31. In exchange for foregoing the remaining time on his contract, he will receive a full year's salary. He must also agree not to take a job or engage with any other entity in the gaming business through 2026. Other benefits due to Wojtaszek will be resolved through negotiations.
Leach started working at Batavia Downs in 1989 as a staff accountant and earns $221,582 as the chief financial officer. She will leave her position after her sick, vacation, and compensation time, if any, in early spring 2025. She will remain on-premises through Jan. 31, 2025, and will split time between home and office in February. For the remaining time on her employment contract, she will be paid half her annual salary.
White was named VP of administration in 2012. His salary is $155,168.
He will continue working through April 30. At that time, he will use up any remaining sick leave and vacation time. He will receive half of a full year's salary.
The resolution authorizing the "negotiations" authorizes Bassett to form a search committee for new executives.
Dennis Bassett. Photo by Howard Owens
The resolution passed 14-1, with Tim Callan, representing Erie County, casting the lone no vote. The seats for Seneca and Wayne counties are currently vacant. Genesee County's representative, Charles Zambito, voted yes.
After the vote, Board Member Vincent W. Horrigan, of Chautauqua County, said, "This cooperation, in my short time here, has achieved incredible results and performance for the counties for the state. That doesn't just happen. It's an incredible leadership team that made that happen. And I would just like to acknowledge the leadership team. They have done absolutely incredible work. Intentions are important, but results are to be congratulated."
Immediately after the meeting, Zambito declined a comment request.
While OTB's revenue and payments to the shareholder municipalities have grown significantly over the past decade, Batavia Downs has been the target of complaints about some of its business practices in recent years.
In November 2023, Western OTB protected $86.4 million in net revenue from racing and gaming operations for the year. The 17 municipalities that own businesses were set to receive more than $10 million in distributions.
A decade and a half ago, the NYS Comptroller's Office issued a report that expressed concern that OTBs in the state, including Western OTB, were on the brink of failure. Since then, Batavia Downs has expanded gaming, added a concert series, remodeled its event space, started hosting more events, built a hotel, added two new bars, and remodeled its restaurant, with most of that business expansion coming in the past eight years.
The board came under fire for health insurance coverage members received based on a 2008 NYS Comptroller's report that seemingly contradicted previous comptroller's reports. The report, which is no longer online, reportedly said Western Regional OTB wasn't permitted to provide free health care coverage to board members, even though two prior audits, state law, and case law supported the ability of government agencies that operated as businesses, such at Western Regional OTB, could in engage in standard business practices.
It's common in corporate America to provide health care, along with other compensation, to board members.
Attorneys for Western OTB said providing health insurance was legal, but an outside council hired to review the issue recommended that the board rescind the health insurance perk, which it did in 2021.
In another Comptroller's Audit, the agency found that OTB engaged in poor record keeping for how perks, such as tickets to Bills and Sabres games, along with other events, were distributed to Batavia Downs customers, implying that some tickets went to board members and family members. Contrary to some reporting on the report, there were no allegations of graft or illegal activity related to the perks. The main issue was that Batavia Downs couldn't account for all of the tickets that were distributed. At least nine percent of the tickets distributed by Batavia Downs went to non-players. The facility has since improved its record keeping and tightened the rules around board members distributing and acting as hosts for gamers using the tickets.
The Comptroller also found that Wojtaszek did not properly record his use of a company-provided take-home vehicle. Wojtaszek admitted that he did not file the proper paperwork and reimbursed OTB OTB $3,000 to resolve the issue. At the time, the company was in the process of eliminating take-come vehicles and instead providing a vehicle allowance, which is now standard business practice in the United States.
Politicians and some reporters used the audits to misrepresent the issues raised as signs of "corruption." In May 2023, a Buffalo Democrat, Sen. Tim Kennedy, pushed through legislation to restructure the Western OTB board, establishing wasted votes based on county and city population, ending the equal distribution of board member votes among the counties and transferring control of the board to Buffalo and Rochester and Erie and Monroe counties.
"I can only say that I echo what Mr. Harrigan said," Bassett said after the meeting. "They have done a tremendous job. And they deserve, really, the time that they are going to move on and move forward with other endeavors. It's been a pleasure to work with all three of them."
Track and Field Coach Nick Burk and multi-sports star Anna Varland Photo by Howard Owens.
Burk and state wrestling champion Casper Stewart. Photo by Howard Owens.
Anna Varland and Casper Stewart were honored on Wednesday evening at the Athletes of the Year by the Batavia Coaches Association at Batavia High School's annual Athletic Awards program.
Varland was a standout in soccer, flag football, basketball and softball.
Stewart won the school's first-ever state championship in wrestling and has been accepted into West Point.
Athletic Director Ryan Winchip provided the following list of awards and winners:
Batavia Coaches Assoc. Outstanding Achievement Award: This award is presented to student-athletes who won an individual sectional championship, competed at states as an individual or were an all-greater Rochester selection.
Ava Anderson Indoor Track & Field Sectional Champion; Outdoor Track & Field Sectional Champion and State Competitor
Jadyn Boyce Indoor Track and Field Sectional Champion; Outdoor Track and Field State Competitor
Mallory Boyce Outdoor Track and Field State Competitor
Kylee Brennan Indoor Track and Field Sectional Champion
Mekhi Fortes All-Greater Rochester - Football
Grant Gahagan Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion
Cameron Garofalo Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion
Cole Grazioplene All-Greater Rochester - Football; Indoor Track and Field Sectional Champion
Jenna Higgins Indoor Track and Field Sectional Champion
Cooper Konieczny Indoor Track and Field Sectional Champ; Outdoor Track and Field State Competitor
Jameson Motyka All-Greater Rochester - Ice Hockey
Adyson O'Donnell Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion and State Competitor
Parris Price Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion
Ella Radley Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion and State Competitor
Campbell Riley All-Greater Rochester - Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field; Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion and State Competitor
Izzy Scott Indoor Track and Field Sectional Champion
Ella Shamp Indoor Track and Field Sectional Champion; Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion and State Competitor
Sheldon Siverling All-Greater Rochester - Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field; Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion and State Competitor; Outdoor Track and Field State Champion - Shot put
Madeline Smith Indoor Track and Field Sectional Champion; All Greater Rochester - Outdoor Track and Field; Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion and State Competitor
Harrison Southall Swimming and Diving Sectional Champion and State Competitor
Helaina Staley Indoor Track and Field Sectional Champion
Casper Stewart Sectional Champion and Wrestling State Champion 145 pound weight class
Jessa Stewart States - Outdoor Track and Field
Nevaeh Thomas States - Outdoor Track and field
Anna Varland Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion and State Competitor
Isaac Varland Outdoor Track and Field State Competitor
Karizma Wescott Indoor Track and Field Sectional Champion; Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion and State Competitor
Ava Wierda Indoor and Outdoor Track and Field Sectional Champion and State Competitor
The James Pacino Memorial Scholarship Recognizing a graduating senior from Batavia High School carrying a minimal final average of 85 and who has had successful involvement with the Wrestling program at BHS. ($500 & certificate)
Casper Stewart
Burk Family Scholarship for Excellence in Track and Community Service: This award recognizes a graduating senior from Batavia High School who has a minimal final average of 85 and has had successful involvement with the track program at BHS. Furthermore, the applicant should be involved in serving their community through projects in school or outside of school. ($300 & certificate)
Donavin Solis
Burk Family Scholarship for Excellence in Football and Community Service This award recognizes a graduating senior from Batavia High School who has a minimal final average of 85 and has had successful involvement with the football program at BHS. Furthermore, the applicant should be involved in serving their community through projects in school or outside of school. ($300 & certificate)
Brock Warren
Thomas Ricci Memorial Scholarship This award is presented to a BHS graduate who, in the estimation of the nominating committee, best exemplifies the attributes of Coach Thomas J. Ricci, Sr., insofar as sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership, and dedication to excellence in the sports of cross country and track and field. The recipient may not necessarily be the best athlete, but will have worked hard to improve and succeed. The recipient must have a clear goal for the future. ($500 & certificate)
Jadyn Boyce
Daniel VanDetta Memorial Scholarship This award is presented to a BHS graduate participating in football and baseball and exemplifies qualities of dedication, leadership and team spirit ($200 & certificate)
Mekhi Fortes
Outstanding Physical Education Student Award This award is presented to one male and one female student from the senior class who demonstrates 100% effort all of the time, who demonstrates sportsmanship, understands the value of being active, is a leader in their environment and maintains an A average in Physical Education. These students are also active in the community through community service and/or club participation. (Certificate)
Male – Hunter Mileham
Female – Prudence Favaloro
United States Air Force Scholar Athlete This award is presented to one male and one female student who have excelled in both academics and athletics. (Certificate)
Male – Quintin Cummings
Female – Grace Parker
United States Army Reserve National Scholar-Athlete: This award is presented to a senior girl and boy who have excelled in both academics and athletics. (Certificate)
Male – Owen Halpin
Female – Julia Preston
United States Navy Outstanding Athlete Award This award is presented to male and female varsity-level athletes who demonstrate honor, courage, and commitment and are positive role models within their peer groups. Award recipients are the most inspirational and demonstrate these values both on and off the athletic field. (Certificate)
Male – Harrison Southall
Female – Giana Mruczek
United States Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award: This award is given to a male and female 9th-12th grade student-athlete who participates in a varsity sport, are exemplary young citizens and role models for younger students, and best exhibit the personal traits of courage, poise, self-confidence and leadership. They need not be your most outstanding athlete, but one who has exhibited this unique combination of qualities while performing in high school sports.
Male – Noah Whitcombe
Female –Lily Jo Wagner
Varsity Club Award: This award is in recognition of Batavia High School senior athletes who have demonstrated a high level of athletic proficiency, sportsmanship and dedication. Please hold your applause until all recipients have been called. (Certificate)
Ethan Bradley, Josh Budzinack, Brian Calderon, Ryan Cox, Julia Clark, Dane Dombrowski, Caleb Henning, Aleeza Idrees, Orion Lama, Tymothey Murrell, Ryan Plath, Parris Price, Emmanuel Richardson, Anna Stevens, Quinn Woeller
The Maddy Bartz Memorial Cheer Scholarship This award is given to a graduating Varsity Cheerleader who best represents a passion for cheerleading and an exemplary care and dedication to fellow teammates. ($500 & plaque)
Sophia Antonucci
Jason “Joy-a” Gioia Memorial Scholarship This award is given in memory of Jason Gioia. The recipient has been active and shown dedication to school activities and the community. ($500 & certificate)
Cole Grazioplene
Dr. Pierce Sportsmanship Award This award is presented to a deserving male and female senior student athlete who in the opinion of coaches best exemplifies the true spirit of good sportsmanship in competition. (plaque)
Male–Patrick Suozzi
Female – Sophia Moore
Batavia Coaches Assoc. Scholar-Athlete Award: This award is presented to a senior boy and girl who has a 90 or above cumulative average, participates in one or more sports and who values outstanding achievement in academics and athletics. (plaque)
Male - Nick Martinucci
Female – Aleeza Idrees
Batavia Lions Club Athletic Award This award is presented to a deserving senior who has demonstrated outstanding athletic ability, citizenship and scholastic ability – (certificate)
Isabella Walsh
Project Play WNY Multisport Athletic Award This award is given to a male and female senior who has demonstrated a commitment to their teams through a willingness to help, teach and assist their teammates and coaches and served as a positive and relatable role model through positive sportsmanship and great attitude on and off the court or field. Succeeded in the classroom by maintaining academic eligibility throughout their high school career. Made a positive difference to the lives of youth at their school or in the wider community. Showed resilience and determination during challenging situations. (Certificate)
Male – Ben Stone
Female – Kaelee Kelso
1947 Club Athletics Award This award is presented to a deserving male and female senior demonstrating outstanding participation, effort and ability in interscholastic athletics. (plaques)
Male – Cole Grazioplene
Female - Ella Radley
Awards of Excellence: Presented to seniors who have participated in a sport for the Fall, Winter and Spring sports seasons during the course of their senior school year. Plaque
Jadyn Boyce, Brian Calderon, Ryan Cox, Mekhi Fortes, Cole Grazioplene, Caleb Henning, Aleeza Idrees, Kaelee Kelso, Nicholas Martinucci, Sophia Moore, Tymothey Murrell, Ryan Plath, Julia Preston, Parris Price, Ella Radley, Emmanuel Richardson, Donavin Solis, Benjamin Stone, Patrick Suozzi, Anna Varland, Isabella Walsh, Brock Warren, Noah Whitcombe
Batavia Coaches Association Athlete of the Year To a senior girl and boy for outstanding leadership, sportsmanship and athletic performance. (Plaque and $50 from Coaches Association)
Male – Casper Stewart
Female – Anna Varland
Aleeza Idrees, Scholar-Athlete of the Year Photo by Howard Owens.
Isabella Walsh, Lions Club Award Photo by Howard Owens.
Cole Grazioplene, "47" Club Outstanding Athlete Photo by Howard Owens.
Ella Radley, "47" Club Outstanding AThlete Photo by Howard Owens.
Ryan Cox Photo by Howard Owens.
Tymothey Murrell, who was just accepted into the wrestling program at SUNY Cortland. Photo by Howard Owens.
The Indian Falls Global Methodist Church hosted its 80th Annual Strawberry Social on Wednesday, serving up not just strawberry shortcake, but also ice cream, brownies, hot dogs, and chicken dinners.
The fundraiser also included an auction and bake sale.
Statement from Le Roy Superintendent Merritt Holly:
We are excited to announce that LeRoy Central School District has been approved to provide free summer meals to all kids 18 and under in our community. Attached to the bottom of this email is the flyer that will be posted around town and in the Genesee Valley Pennysaver. You can use the QR code on the flyer or the google form link https://forms.gle/rAjaSexjfiUUrBxi7 to pre-register for meal pick up.
Here are some important facts about our Summer Food Service Program:
1. Meal pick up will be on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:30-12:30 at the Wolcott Street School Main Office Entrance from July 9 - August 15
*Tuesday pick up will provide 2 days breakfast and 2 days lunch for each child
*Thursday pick up will provide 3 days breakfast and 3 days lunch for each child
*Children attending LeRoy Summer Academy may bring their food home with them at the end of their school day
*Home delivery is not available
2. All children ages 0-18 are eligible to receive free meals this summer
*School enrollment is not required
*Children from surrounding communities are eligible to receive free meals if their town is not providing them
*Children may pick up meals for themselves, a parent/guardian may pick up meals for their children, or a parent/guardian designated adult may pick up for a child
*Please do no pick up for multiple families in your neighborhood. We are required to keep a roster with designated pick up information
4. Our summer meals will contain your child's school year favorites including fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains, 100% fruit juice, and NY state dairy products
*All meals will require no preparation and will be ready to eat or only need a short time in the microwave
*Medically documented food allergies will be accommodated
*Menus are available on Nutrislice. Please use the menu link on the school website Quick Links or food service page. https://leroycsd.nutrislice.com/
Please contact Melissa Saunders at 585-768-5509 or email msaunders@leroycsd.org with any questions or concerns. We hope to see you this summer!
James Taylor, the maker of such hits as Fire and Rain, You've Got a Friend, and Sweet Baby James, performed on Tuesday at the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center.
Association President Trish Hammerl and Tom Sardou. Photo by Howard Owens.
The Bergen Business Civic Association honored Tom and Chris Sardou to celebrate Viking Valhalla Restaurant's and the Rose Garden Bowl and Volleyball Center's 70th anniversary.
Tom's parents, Doc and Mary Sardou, purchased the restaurant in 1954 when it was already 30 years old. Tom was 1 at the time. In 1957, they added a bowling alley.
It's been a mainstay of the Bergen community throughout its history.
Daniel, Daysee, and Makenzie Burr. On June 11, Daysee was vomiting blood and stopped breathing. Friends and emergency responders worked together to save her life. Photo by Howard Owens.
As John Durand, safety officer for the Byron Fire Department, peeked in the window of a Mercy EMS ambulance in the early morning of June 11, he saw something that lifted his spirits.
"We can see her in the back of the ambulance, and I can see her little smile. Life got better real fast after that. It was the prettiest thing I've seen in a long time," Durand said.
Daysee Burr, who earlier hadn't been breathing and barely had a pulse, was alive and about to get a Mercy Flight ride to Strong Memorial Hospital, where she could get the emergency care she needed for complications from tonsil and adenoid surgery.
Anyone who heard the scanner call at 2 a.m. would have heard the concern and worry in the dispatcher's and responder's voices as the call escalated from "three-year-old child vomiting blood" to "child not breathing."
CPR instructions were being given, a dispatcher told first responders.
Byron Fire and Ambulance, along with State Police, responded.
Mercy Flight was called. Troopers set up a landing zone. Elba's fire chief also responded and acted as ground contact.
Daysee's father, Daniel Burr, tried breathing into his child's mouth but admitted during a gathering at Mercy EMS's Genesee County headquarters on Call Parkway in Batavia that he doesn't really know CPR. Long-time family friends Micheal and Cheyenne have been staying with the Burr's for the past month or so. They have military experience and stepped in to assist.
"They started taking control because we were panicking," Burr said. "We were, you know, we don't know CPR or nothing like that. We were really panicking and they just took control, calm, collected, and got stuff done the way it had to be done at that point.
Ashley Gurgel was the dispatcher providing instructions.
"They were listening to dispatch," said Makenzie Burr, Daysee's mother, "listening to everything that she was telling us to do -- make sure her head is tilted back, you know. If she starts coughing, turn her on her side and make sure her airway is clear. If she does cough anything up, we've got to get as much of it out as possible before lying her on her back."
Durand added, "The anatomy of three-year-olds, their airway are very small. It doesn't take too much to block it."
It was Makenzie who immediately called 9-1-1 when she recognized the severity of the situation.
"The first thing that came to my mind was we can't go through another child's funeral," Makenzie said. "We have already lost our oldest daughter. There was no way we could go through another funeral for one of our children. We were just praying to God that, you know, help her, help her stay with us until she can get the proper help and care that she needs."
Daysee had her tonsils and adenoids removed on June 4. After getting back home, according to Mackenzie said, she looked pale and she wasn't eating or drinking much. She coughed up blood the first time on June 10.
"Seeing your child cough up blood is absolutely terrifying," Makenzie said. "So we called, and the on-call doctor called us back, and said it's normal to last about two to three minutes. But if it happens again, something is wrong."
Makenzie said she and her husband monitored their little girl the rest of the day.
At about 2 a.m., she got up and asked for a popsicle.
"As she got up and moving, we were standing in our kitchen, and she projectile vomited," Makenzie said. "I called 911, and that started the process of telling me what to do, and she got everyone there."
Senior Dispatcher Michael Sheflin said it was clear quickly that if there is any such thing as a routine emergency call, this call wasn't routine.
Gurgel was giving instructions, but it was apparent something troubling and serious was going on.
"Ashley did a great job staying with mom and the people there," Sheflin said. "I just supported her by dispatching the fire departments and helicopter, and the State Police stepped up on their own and responded, which makes our life a little bit easier when people pitch in and do what they can."
Both troopers who responded have young children, said Trooper Mike Machniak.
"I've got a three-year-old, and he's got a six and a 10-year-old," Machniak said. "When you hear a call like that, it doesn't matter; you're going to get there, you know. At that time, speed and getting there (is important). We may all wear a different uniform but at that point, we care about the child, about the person. They're talking about being a big team. That's all it's about."
Durand was sleeping and happened to wake up just before the call came in.
"I looked at my clock and said, "It's been a long time since we've had a late night call, and my head hit the pillow," Durand said. "As I'm getting dressed and getting ready to go, it goes out with the breathing part, so we're trying to get there without hitting too many deer late at night."
Durand had forgotten, he said, that the State Police have their own helicopter, so troopers are trained to set up landing zones, and that is exactly what Machniak and his partner did for Mercy Flight.
They found a good spot and helped carry the litter back and forth," Durand said. "So it all worked, even though we were all different units. It worked very well together, the way it was designed to work."
Daysee is doing much better, Makenzie said. She spent most of three days in the hospital (three different trips) being monitored, ensuring she stayed hydrated, and was getting the medication she needed.
Asked at what point in the process, she and her husband felt relieved that her child was out of the woods.
"We still don't," Makenzie said. "Right now, she's going through trying to get her iron back up. Once she is able to run around and play like she normally is, that's when we'll feel great."
Photo by Howard Owens.
Many of the first responders who helped save Daysee's life with the Burr family. The Mercy Flight pilots, a state trooper, and others were unable to attend. Photo by Howard Owens.
Ashley Gurgel presents Daysee with a plush daisy. Photo by Howard Owens.
Louvan S. "Ty" Norman, 38, of Treyer Street, Rochester, is charged with four counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance 3rd and four counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd. Norman was arrested on a sealed indictment warrant on May 29 following an investigation by the Local Drug Task Force. Norman is accused of selling quantities of crack cocaine to agents of the task on four separate occasions while in the city of Batavia. He was arraigned in County Court and released under supervision.
Nathaniel L. Beglinger, 32, of Peaviner Road, Alexander, is charged with two counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance 3rd and two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd. Beglinger was arrested on May 21 on a sealed indictment warrant stemming from an investigation by the Local Drug Task Force. Beglinger is accused of selling quantities of crack cocaine in Alexander to agents of the task force. He was arraigned in County Court and released on his own recognizance.
Kyle J. Stack, 38, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with three counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance 3rd and three counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd. Stack was arrested on June 21 on a seal indictment warrant at his place of employment. Stack is accused of selling quantities of crack cocaine to an agent of the Local Drug Task Force in the city of Batavia. He was arraigned in County Court and released on his own recognizance.
Andre D. Coley, 32, of South Platt Street, Albion, is charged with two counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance 3rd and two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd. Coley was arrested on May 23 on a sealed indictment warrant upon his release from custody in the Orleans County Jail on unrelated charges. Coley is accused of selling quantities of crack cocaine to an agent of the Local Drug Task Force on two occasions in the city of Batavia. He was arraigned in County Court and released on his own recognizance.
Mathew P. Parker, 34, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with two counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance 3rd and two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd. Parker was arrested on May 21 on a sealed indictment warrant by Batavia PD NET officers following an investigation by the Local Drug Task Force. He allegedly sold quantities of crack cocaine to an agent of the task force. He was arraigned in County Court and released on his own recognizance.
Galena Ann Esainko, 31, of Lippold Road, Darien, is charged with four counts of endangering the welfare of a child and harassment 2nd. No information was released by the Sheriff's Office on what led to the charges. The alleged incident was reported on June 19 at 8:10 p.m. at a location on Lippold Road, Darien. Esainko was held pending arraignment.
Andres Manuel Cabrera, 29, of Pershing Parkway, Mineola, is charged with attempted assault 2nd (with intent to cause injury to a police officer), criminal mischief 3rd, resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration, and intent to damage property. Deputies responded to the Quality Inn and Suites at 12:18 a.m. on June 17 to investigate a criminal mischief complaint. While conducting an investigation, deputies attempted to detain Cabrera. Cabrera is accused of attempting to run from officers and then fighting with officers. Hw arrested and transported to the jail for processing. He was released on an appearance ticket. The arresting officers were Deputy Jacob Kipler and Deputy Mason Schultz.
Amethyste Rose Fleming, 25, of Bowen Road, Alexander, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and criminal mischief 3rd. According to deputies, Flemming's child left the house unattended for hours while the temperatures exceeded 90 degrees. They also alleged Fleming's son got outside the residence unattended and walked approximately a quarter of a mile down the road with Fleming's two German Shepherds to a neighbor's house, where the dogs attacked a goat. The incident was reported at 4:39 p.m. on June 18. Fleming was transported to the jail and held pending arraignment.
Ryan Michael Bolivar, 43, of South Elm Avenue, Fresno, Calif., is charged with driving while impaired by drugs, vehicle lights not meeting standards, and drinking or using cannabis in a motor vehicle. Bolivar's vehicle was stopped at 10:17 p.m. on June 20 on Lewiston Road by Deputy Jacob Kipler. He was transported to the jail for processing and released.
Jamie L. Dalba, 42, of Pine Street, Oakfield, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Dalba was allegedly found in possession of cocaine at 3:42 a.m. on June 24 at a location on South Pearl Street, Oakfield. He was processed at the jail and released.
Local organizations are increasingly relying on social media to announce their events and other important announcements without putting out a press release.
Student Speaker Owen Williams Photo by Howard Owens.
Le Roy's Class of 2024, 94 graduates strong, received words of encouragement and advice from the commencement speakers: life is hard at times, so embrace happiness, look to the future with a positive attitude, and face life with courage.
"I encourage each of you to make choices that will lead you to the experiences that will help you live your life to the absolute fullest," said Principal David Russell in his opening remarks. "Living your life to the fullest will look differently for everyone here. But I hope that each of you can find whatever experiences bring you the most joy and you embrace them."
Board of Education President Jacalyn Whiting advised the graduates that their future hinges on "attitude." Attitude, she said will determine whether they succeed or fail. It will determine their priorities, their actions, and their values.
"Life is not always easy and presents many challenges," Whiting said. "We can't always control the people, events or circumstances that surround us, but we can control the way we choose to react to them. As you continue your journey, focus on what you can control. Maintain a positive attitude. Encourage and support those around you. Be an optimistic thinker. Lean on your friends and family when you need support, develop and maintain a hopeful outlook for your future."
The class selected Michael Battaglia as the faculty speaker.
Battaglia first noted how fortunate the students are to be part of a community like Le Roy. On Friday night, top-achieving students received more than $125,000 in scholarships to assist with college or trade school.
"That awesome amount of money I just mentioned is because you had the fortunate opportunity to grow up in a community and the school community that cares about you and your success," Battaglia said. "No matter where you go or what you're doing in life, remember that the people in Le Roy are always here for you."
He encouraged the students to seek happiness and embrace happiness when they have it in their grasp.
"While it sounds simple, I hope you find happiness," Battaglia said. "And when you do, whether in your career, your relationships, where you choose to live, hold on to it when you find it. We all fail and make mistakes. Don't be afraid to make a mistake or experience failure. We've all been there. Don't fear them. But embrace the opportunities in your life that make you happy."
Now that Le Roy is on the "laud system," or as Russell referred to it in his remarks, the "Latin system," this is the first graduating class in Le Roy without a valedictorian and salutatorian speakers. Any student could apply for the student speaker roles, with the entire class voting on who the two speakers would be.
The speakers were Aubree Feeley and Owen Williams.
Feeley addressed much of her comments to the graduates who aren't being recognized as top of the class, congratulating them on their contributions to the school by being part of the community, showing up every day and participating.
Getting through high school is hard for everybody, she said. It's a lot of work. A lot of stress. It's classes and sports and musicals and other activities.
"All of these moments have brought us to the next step in our lives," Feeley said. "We have already achieved so much. So it's all the graduates, whether you are in the spotlight or not, know that your hard work is recognized that our dedication and perseverance are an inspiration to us all."
Williams said graduation marks the culmination of 13 years in school, making friends, progressing through the grades, the struggles, wins and losses that come along with that progression. Life is going to be very different from this point forward. There won't always be that sense of progression. There will be struggles and disappointments. He told his classmates to be true to themselves.
"Be true to your passions," Williams said. "Be true to your friends. Be true to your family, and live your life how you want it to be lived. Do what makes you feel fulfilled. Do what makes you happy, not what makes someone else happy. Follow your heart, and you will find purpose."
After all of the diplomas were distributed, Superintendent Merritt Holly delivered some closing remarks. He provided inspirational quotes from fictional characters and expounded on what the lessons the students could learn.
"Courage begins by trusting yourself," Holly said, quoting Yoda.
"To be successful in the military, the workforce or college, you must believe in yourself more than you ever have," Holly said. "When faced with the challenge, and moments that lie ahead for you, believe in and trust in yourself. You will have the courage and strength to face life's challenges."
Student Speaker Aubree Feeley Photo by Howard Owens.
Board of Education President Jacalyn Whiting Photo by Howard Owens.
Senior members of the Choir and Band perform Billy Joel's "Vienna." Photo by Howard Owens.
Tom Feeley during the recognition of military veterans. Photo by Howard Owens.
Kira Ryan and Anna Long, performed Abba's "Slipping Through My Finders" while graduates delivered carnations to parents and family members. Photo by Howard Owens.
Photo by Howard Owens.
Photo by Howard Owens.
Camden P. Baris, graduating with Cum Laude honors, receiving his diploma from Principal David Russell. Photo by Howard Owens.
Noelle Bovee, graduating with Magna Cum Laude honors Photo by Howard Owens.
Once again in partnership with Sunnking Sustainable Solutions, Assemblyman Steve Hawley hosted his annual electronics recycling drive on East Main Street Road in Batavia on Saturday.
Kathy Panepento, founder of Crossroads House, retiring after 26 years of work with Crossroads, is congratulated at a retirement party on Friday by City Council President Eugene Jankowski. Photo by Howard Owens.
For 26 years, Kathy Panepento, founder and key figure in Crossroads House's operations, has provided a "steadfast and unwavering commitment" to the community, Assemblyman Steve Hawley noted at Panepento's retirement party on Friday.
"For nearly three decades, Kathy Panepento rendered faithful, conscientious and valuable services to Crossroads House, truly earning the admiration, esteem and affection of her colleagues and the community," Hawley said, reading from an Assembly Citation.
In those 26 years, Panepento has been director of residential care, end-of-life doula services, and served on the board of directors.
"Thank you all for being here and sharing this event and to celebrate my retirement," Panepento said. "But it wasn't just me. It was the board of directors, the volunteers, the nurses, and the staff. It takes a village to keep Crossroads house operational. And I know, even when I leave, it's in good hands."
Panepento was a registered nurse and end-of-life doula in the late 1990s when she realized that Batavia didn't have a residential end-of-life care facility. While recognizing most people with a terminal condition would prefer to pass peacefully at home, that isn't an option for many people, so she thought the community should provide a facility with 24-hour care.
She kicked off the organization of what eventually became Crossroads House, which opened at 11 Liberty Street. Batavia First Presbyterian Church paid $1 a month in rent for a former parsonage.
The first resident entered Crossroads House on Jan. 7, 1998.
"She has left her mark as a caring member of the community," Hawley said.
City Council President Eugene Jankowski and County Legislator Gary Maha also presented Panepento with proclamations.
Jankowski praised Panepento as a role model for the community and mentor to the employees and volunteers at Crossroads House.
Crossroads House wouldn't have been possible, Panepento noted, without the support of her family, especially her husband Frank, who recently retired from the Batavia City School District.
For retirement, Panepento is planning to get her commercial driver's license so she can get behind the wheel of a Class B recreational vehicle and take off with Frank to see the country. She also plans to spend time with her grandchildren and research family ancestry.
Kathy Panepento and Assemblyman Steve Hawley Photo by Howard Owens.
Smash Mouth lead singer Zach Goode. Photo by Howard Owens
Smash Mouth brought more than a decade's worth of hits and some poppin' new tunes to Batavia Downs on Friday night.
The set ranged from monster hits like Walking on the Sun, I'm a Believer, and All Star to their latest single, Ride On, which kept the crowd dancing and smiling throughout the performance.
At age 74, Batavia resident Dave Barone accomplished a rare feat on Wednesday. He played 18 holes of golf at Batavia Country Club and show a career-best round of 70, two strokes under pare and four strokes under his age.
His friend Doug Cercere, who referred to Barone as a local bowling legend, credited the accomplishment to "Hours of practice that contributed to his single-digit handicap and this very impressive score over the 6,500-yard course."
His round was witnessed by Mickey Hyde, Nick DiFlippo, and Cercere.
Lucas Lopez at the plate in the third inning. Photo by Howard Owens.
The Batavia Muckdogs took it on the chin on Wednesday evening for only the second time this season, falling to the Niagara Falls Americans 8-6.
Start Gavin Chandler had a strong outing, going 5 2/3 innings while surrendering only four hits and giving up one run. He had six Ks.
He was relieved in the sixth by Isidro Jimenez with a runner in scoring position. Jimenez induced an inning-ending grounder from Vincent Mauro.
The wheels came off for Batavia in the seventh inning as Jimenez and Brycton Berry (Notre Dame grad) gave up seven runs (six earned).
That left the hometown team down 8-2.
The Muckdogs tried to make a game of it in the bottom of the seventh, scoring four runs but couldn't keep the momentum going to overcome the Americans lead.
Lucas Lopez and Jake Butler each had two hits for Batavia. Lopez had two RBIs.
Jimenez took the loss in his first appearance of the season.
Now with a record of 10-2, Batavia remains at the top of the West Division of the Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League, 1.5 games ahead of the Auburn Double Days.
The Muckdogs travel to Elmira tomorrow and are home again on Friday against Geneva. Game time on Friday is 6:35.
Starter Gavin Chandler Photo by Howard Owens.
Travis Hammond attempts a Willie-Mays-style basket catch in centerfield. Photo by Howard Owens.
Niagara Falls' first baseman, Vincent Mauro, had the ball nearly go through the webbing of his glove before making the put out on a hard grounder by Lucas Lopez. Photo by Howard Owens.
Cooper Romich at the plate. Photo by Howard Owens
Lucas Lopez gathers up a ground ball. Photo by Howard Owens.
Tavis Hammond at the plate. Photo by Howard Owens.
Emory Mest was all smiles as Alishia Foss and later his mother, Kelsey Mast, swung him into the water spray at the park on Wednesday afternoon when temperatures were in the 90s. Photo by Howard Owens.
Area residents have been seeking out the spray park in Austin Park, Batavia, seeking some relief from the heatwave that has rolled through Genesee County.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory in effect until 8 p.m. on Thursday. With temperatures in the 90s, the heat index is hitting around 100.
