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Pavilion

Law and Order: Kelsey Road man faces two new felonies related to child porn case

By Billie Owens

David J. Somerton, 36, of Kelsey Road, Batavia, (in photo above) is charged with possession of obscene sexual performance by a child and use of a child in a sexual performance, both felonies. He was arraigned on the charges on Nov. 29 in Batavia Town Court. Somerton was initially arrested and arraigned on five counts of disseminating indecent material to a minor on Oct. 31 after investigation into a sex offense that occurred in the Town of Batavia Oct. 13. The new charges stem from further investigation and additional charges are pending. The case was investigated by Genesee County Sheriff's Investigator Howard Carlson, assisted by Investigator/Youth Officer Timothy Westcott. The Genesee County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division was assisted by the FBI Buffalo field office.

Alvin Ezra Way, 57, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. He was arrested at 9:06 p.m. on Dec. 1 on Colonial Way in Batavia for allegedly violating an order of protection by having personal contact with the protected party. He was issued an appearance ticket for Dec. 17 in Town of Batavia Court. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Travis DeMuth, assisted by Deputy Erik Andre.

Christie Lynn Daniels, 22, of Council House Road, Basom, is charged with: DWI, speeding in excess of 55 mph, and unlicensed operation -- driving without a license. At 1:59 a.m. on Dec. 2 on Lewiston Road in Batavia, Daniels was stopped by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan Young for allegedly speeding. After an investigation, it is alleged that Daniels was driving without a license and while intoxicated. She was issued appearance tickets for Dec. 17 in Batavia Town Court. Deputy Young was assisted in the case by Deputy Austin Heberlein.

Trisha A. Park, 26, of Le Roy, was arrested in the evening on Nov. 30th by the Le Roy Police Department and charged with: aggravated driving while intoxicated with a child passenger under 15 years of age inside the vehicle, a class E felony; operating a motor vehicle impaired by drugs and endangering the welfare of a child -- both misdemeanors; unlawful possession of marijuana and inadequate headlights on a motor vehicle, both violations. At approximately 5:45 p.m. on Nov. 30th, patrols observed a vehicle operating without a headlight on Wolcott Street in the Village of Le Roy. Patrols initiated a traffic stop and interviewed the operator. While speaking with the operator, patrols allegedly noticed a strong marijuana odor emanating from the vehicle. A vehicle search would allegedly reveal marijuana as well as marijuana paraphernalia. After a brief investigation it was allegedly determined that Park was impaired by drugs. Park was taken into custody without incident and was evaluated by a Drug Recognizant Expert. Park was arraigned in Le Roy Town Court and released under supervision. Park is due back in court on Dec. 20th.

Frank L. Cortright, 60, of Route 77, Alabama, is charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief. It is alleged that at 12:15 p.m. on Nov. 30 on Pratt Road in Pembroke that Cortright intentionally damaged property belonging to another individual. He was issued an appearance ticket returnabled to Pembroke Town Court on Dec. 11. The case was handled by Genesee Coounty Sheriff's Deputy Travis DeMuth.

Stephen Michael Milroy, 24, of Perry Road, Pavilion, is charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of marijuana. At 3:42 a.m. on Dec. 1, Milroy was arrested on Park Road in Batavia after investigation into a report of an unconscious male sleeping in his vehicle in the Batavia Downs' parking lot. Milroy was processed at the jail and issued appearance tickets returnable to Batavia Town Court on Dec. 17. The case was handled by Deputy Andrew Mullen.

Christopher Jai Shawn Middleton, 24, of Dumont Avenue, Brooklyn, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and speeding. The defendant was stopped at 8:35 a.m. on Sumner Road in Darien on Nov. 29 for allegedly speeding. Investigation allegedly revealed he possessed marijuana. He was issued an appearance ticket returnable to Town of Darien Court on Dec. 11. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kevin McCarthy.

Photos: Christmas celebrated, loved ones remembered at first-ever tree lighting in Pavilion

By Howard B. Owens

The Town of Pavilion held its first Christmas tree lighting yesterday, with residents and local businesses decorating trees in the park in Pavilion.

Several families decorated trees in memory of loved ones who have passed. 

The tree in the top photo is a memorial to Bill Prosser, a Navy veteran who served at the end of World War II. In the photo: Joan, Debbie Prosser, Ken Prosser, Jim Prosser, and Liz Prosser.

Rhonda Clary with a memorial tree for her son John, a popular student at Pavilion High  School who died in 2004.

The family of Jack Carney with a memorial tree for him.

Visiting Nurses Association opens new, larger office in Pavilion

By Howard B. Owens

The Visiting Nursing Association hosted a grand opening today of its new office on Telephone Road in Pavilion.

The VNA is part of a regional network of providers based in Buffalo and the Pavilion office serves the GLOW region.

It consolidates offices that were in Batavia and Wyoming County in what VP Lisa Greisler said is larger and more convenient for the entire staff.

"We really wanted something that was centrally located for our staff and really for our referral services to know we’re smack in the middle of where you need us to be," Greisler said.

There are 70 nurses, aides and support staff serving the GLOW region with an increasing need for more staff, so the new facility will help meet current and future demand. The nurses and aides make more than 28,000 home visits a year.

The office provides visiting nurse -- who mostly work remotely -- with a central location for doing paperwork, getting supplies and meeting with other caregivers.

“We’re growing, which is good news," Greisler said. "This region, in particular, is continuing to grow with the number of patients we’ve been serving and it is growing every day so we’re happy to be able to be here and serve."

Photo: Lisa Greisler, Judy Baumgardner, president, Peggy Weissend, Lyn Waldraff, Courtney Boss, Sarah Dufour and Wendy Swart.

Pavilion man accused of dealing fentanyl, allegedly in possession of heroin at time of arrest

By Howard B. Owens
      Jack Benson

A 60-year-old Pavilion man has been arrested and accused of illegally selling fentanyl in Genesee County.

Jack E. Benson, of St. Mary's Street, Pavilion, is charged with three counts of criminal sale of a controlled substance, 3rd, and criminal possession of a controlled substance, 3rd.

Benson was taken into custody on an arrest warrant stemming from a sealed grand jury indictment following a traffic stop this afternoon in Stafford.

He is accused of selling fentanyl to an agent of the Local Drug Task Force on three different occasions. 

At the time of the stop, he was allegedly in possession of 24 doses of heroin and $1,300 in cash. 

Jolynn M. Gorski, 38, of Batavia, was reportedly a passenger in Benson's vehicle at the time of the stop. She was allegedly found in possession of drug paraphernalia and charged with criminal use of drug paraphernalia.

Benson was arraigned in County Court by Judge Charles Zambito and ordered held in the Genesee County Jail without bail. 

Additional charges are pending.

The arrest was the result of an investigation by the Local Drug Task Force. The task force was assisted by Batavia PD and the District Attorney's Office.

Law and Order: Bergen teen accused of grabbing teacher's head and shaking it during class

By Billie Owens

A 16-year-old male who lives in Bergen was arrested and charged with second-degree harassment at 12:40 p.m. on Nov. 14. He allegedly grabbed and shook a teacher's head during class at Byron-Bergen High School. He was arraigned in Bergen Town Court and an order of protection was issued for the teacher. The teenager is due in Bergen Town Court at 5 p.m. on Dec. 12. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Matthew Butler.

Rodney Scott Schwartz, 53, of Broadway Road, Alexander, is charged with: DWI -- second offense within 10 years; aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree; and open container of alcohol in a vehicle. Following an investigation into a domestic incident at 6:55 p.m. on Nov. 25, Schwartz was arrested on these charges and jailed on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 bond. He was due in Alexander Town Court on Nov. 29. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy James Stack.

Sara Rae Tombari, 21, of Roanoke Road, Pavilion, is charged with third-degree bail jumping. She was arrested after failing to appear for a scheduled court appearance. She was arraigned at 1 p.m. on Nov. 27 in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $2,500 bail. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, assisted by Sgt. Ronald Meides.

Joseph Michael Smith, 42, of Colonial Lane, Bath, is charged with third-degree bail jumping. He was arrested after failing to appear for a scheduled court appearance. He was arraigned at 12:50 a.m. on Nov. 28 in Batavia Town Court and jailed in lieu of $1,000 bail. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Erik Andre.

Injury accident reported on Route 20, Pavlion

By Howard B. Owens

A vehicle is off the road at Route 20 and South Street Road, Pavilion, and injuries are reported.

Mercy Flight is requested to the scene.

Pavilion fire and Mercy EMS responding.

UPDATE 8:07 a.m.: Le Roy also responded and is now back in service.

UPDATE 8:10 a.m.: Roadway is open. Pavilion is back in service.

Pavilion students pony up $723 for Sheriff's Office K9 Fund

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo.

On Wednesday, students at Pavilion Central School presented a check for $721 -- plus gave two one-dollar bills in cash -- for the K9 Fund to help the Genesee County Sheriff's Office buy a crime-fighting service dog. A total of $723!

The students held a fundraiser on Nov. 5, which was designated "Hat Day." Students donated a dollar to participate in Hat Day and and staff made a donation so they could "dress down" in casual clothes that day.

Pictured at the check ceremony are: Back row, from left -- Chief Sheriff's Deputy Jerome Brewster, Kris Hoffmeister, Ashley McMaster, Sheila Eigenbrod, Charles Martell, Ken Ellison and Jon Wilson. Front row, from left -- K9 Handler / Deputy Christopher Erion, students Molly McMaster and Kennedy Quigley, and School Resource Officer / Deputy Cory Mower.

Tonight and tomorrow in Pavilion, 'My Fair Lady'

By Howard B. Owens

Pavilion High School's "Stars of Tomorrow" present a performance of "My Fair Lady" at 7 o'clock tonight and tomorrow night.

Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for seniors and students.

Directors and Crew:

  • Director: Eric Traugott
  • Producer/Vocal Music Director: Beth Funderburk
  • Pit Orchestra Conductor: Stuart McLean
  • Choreographer: Denise Leblanc-Chatt
  • Set Design: Joe Paras

Cast List:

  • Eliza Doolittle: Katie Ehrhart
  • Colonel Pickering: Alex Stalica
  • Mrs. Eynsford-Hill: Mackenzie Blakeslee
  • Henry Higgins: Jacob Taylor
  • Mrs. Higgins: Ella Manurung
  • Freddy Eynsford-Hill: Jeremy Blakeslee
  • Alfred P. Doolittle: Anthony Brown
  • Harry: Joe Forti
  • Jamie: Zander Markek
  • Mrs. Pearce: Evelyn Northrup
  • Prof. Zoltan Karpathy: Max Whalen
  • Ensemble: Shea Amberger, Kylie Conway, Angela Davidson, Jordan Eggleston, Joy Gayhart, Cassie Guile, Aiden McConnell, Colin McConnell, Isis McLure, Ayden Taylor, Mr. Clark, Mr. Chrzanowski, Mrs. Slocum, Mr. Weaver, Mr. Webb

York/Pavilion shuts down Notre Dame to advance in Class D

By Howard B. Owens

In the rain, on a muddy track, Notre Dame's offense was unable to find its groove Saturday afternoon and slowly watched its Class D quarterfinal playoff game against York/Pavilion slip away.

The Fighting Irish lost 18-0.

At this time, no stats are available.

To purchase prints as keepsakes, click here.

Sponsored Post: Look at these Move-In Ready properties! Call Reliant today

By Lisa Ace


6800 Junction Road, Pavilion. Super solid move in ready raised ranch home on quiet 1/2 acre country lot! Move in and enjoy no honey do lists on this 3 bedroom, 2 full bath home.

Downstairs features large family room with gas fireplace pretty ceramic floors, brand new full bath -- perfect hang out room or an awesome large master bedroom suite! Upstairs features hardwood floors large open kitchen/dining/living space ideal for entertaining!

Three bedrooms with full closets and another brand new bath -- not a lot to do here but decorate! Outside is nicely landscaped and lot backs up to fields with pretty views--very easy to see! Call Lynn Bezon at Reliant Real Estate today or click here for more information on this listing.

8009 Bank Street Road, Batavia. Owner says SELL this solid 5 bedroom, 3 full bath home in move in condition! You can't find to many like this!

This well laid out spacious home has something for everybody -- a newly redone and pretty kitchen with granite countertops, large dining area for friends & family, 5 good-sized bedrooms, well spaced out to give everyone privacy and 3 FULL baths-you can never have enough seats!

When you walk in you are welcomed into awesome foyer/sitting room with beautiful wet bar and fireplace with vaulted ceiling leading to 2 loft style bedrooms-perfect for guests or his and her offices!

All mechanical updates are in good working order and all appliances included! Located in the town with 1.5 acres and minutes from thruway for easy commutes to everywhere! Call Lynn Bezon at Reliant Real Estate today or click here for more information on this listing.

Lydia Milligan of Pavilion inducted into Phi Eta Sigma honor society at Elmira College

By Billie Owens

Lydia Milligan, of Pavilion, was one of 49 students inducted into Phi Eta Sigma, the International Honor Society rewarding first-collegiate-year scholarship, during a ceremony held Family Weekend in Peterson Chapel.

In addition to the 49 students, Joel Stoker, professor of Religious Studies, was inducted as an honorary member. Professor Stoker was selected because the membership found him to exemplify the qualities of Phi Eta Sigma through his commitment to continually pursuing intellectual growth and encouraging his students to do the same. 

Phi Eta Sigma, the oldest and largest first-year honor society, was founded in 1923 at the University of Illinois with the goal of encouraging and rewarding academic excellence among full-time, first-year students in institutions of higher learning.

The Society has established chapters in over 350 institutions of higher learning in the United States. Elmira College is the 289th chapter, established in 1990.

The three Greek letters, Phi, Eta, and Sigma, represent the basis of the organization's membership, in that they mean literally "lovers of wisdom."

About Elmira College

Founded in 1855, Elmira College is a private, residential, liberal arts college offering 30-plus majors, an honors program, 17 academic societies, and 20 Division III varsity teams.

Located in the Southern Finger Lakes Region of New York, Elmira's undergraduate and graduate student population hails from more than 20 states and nine countries. Elmira is a Phi Beta Kappa College and has been ranked a top college, nationally, for student internships.

The College is also home to the Center for Mark Twain Studies, one of four historically significant Twain heritage sites in the United States, which attracts Twain scholars and educators from around the world for research on the famous literary icon. Proud of its history and tradition, the College is committed to the ideals of community service, and intellectual and individual growth.

Law and Order: Vine Street woman charged with DWI, criminal possession of a controlled substance

By Billie Owens

Angela M. McIntyre, 46, of Vine Street, Batavia, is charged with: uninspected motor vehicle; driving while intoxicated -- impaired by drugs -- first offense; and criminal possession of a controlled substance (unspecified). McIntyre was arrested at 10:52 a.m. on Sept. 14 on East Main Street in Batavia following an investigation at Eastown Plaza. She was released to Genesee Justice and is due in City Court Sept. 27. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Kevin DeFelice, assisted by Kyle Krtanik.

Aaron L. Klein, 47, of Montclair Avenue, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. He was arrested at 1:12 p.m. on Sept. 19 for violating a stay-away order of protection. Klein was allegedly caught hiding in the protected party's house within hours of being served with the stay-away order. He was jailed on $5,000 bail or $10,000 bond. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jason Ivison, assisted by Officer Frank Klimjack.

Jeremiah T. Jones, 45, of Ross Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. He was arrested at 1:40 p.m. on Sept. 17 on West Main Street, Batavia, after he violated a stay-away order of protection. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in city court on Oct. 2. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Jason Davis.

A 17-year-old who lives on Liberty Street in Batavia was arrested at 8:05 p.m. on Sept. 17 following a disturbance on Ross Street in the city wherein the youth is accused of punching another person in the face. The defendant was due in city court this afternoon to answer the charge. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Jeremy C. Goodell, 44, of Washington Avenue, Batavia, was arrested Sept. 21 on a bench warrant for failure to appear in city court. He had been charged with third-degree criminal mischief stemming from an incident that occurred at 444 W. Main St., Batavia. Following his arraignment, he was jailed in lieu of $2,500 cash or $5,000 bond. He is due in coty court on Thursday (Sept. 27). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Kyle Krtanik, assisted by Officer Kevin DeFelice.

David L. Newton, 59, of Lewiston Road, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. He was apprehended by Tops market employees after allegedly being observed concealing several items on his person and exiting the store. He was arrested at 10:55 p.m. on Sept. 20 and released on an appearance ticket and is due in City Court on Oct. 2. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Ronnie Joe Flinchum, 59, of Mill Street, Le Roy, was arrested on Sept. 21 on a Batavia City Court bench warrant for failure to appear. Flinchum was arraigned and jailed on $1,000 cash or bond. The defendant was due in city court this morning. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Julia L. Tombari, 24, of Roanoke Road, Pavilion, is charged with violation of probation. She was arrested on Sept. 24 on a bench warrant out of city court for violating probation. She was arraigned and jailed on $5,000 cash or bond and is due in city court on Thursday (Spet. 27). The case was handled by Batavia Police Sgt. Dan Coffey, assisted by Officer Jason Ivison.

Isaiah J.A. Munroe, 28, of Buell Street, Batavia, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. On Sept. 22 at 6:19 p.m. while on a traffic stop on Bank Street in Batavia, Munroe was arrested for allegedly possessing marijuana. He was issued a computer-generated appearance ticket and is due in city court on Oct. 2 to answer the charge. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Catherine Mucha, assisted by Officer Chad Richards.

Photo: Sun rising behind flag in Pavilion

By Howard B. Owens

Deputy Corey Mower, resource officer for Pavilion Central Schools, shared this early morning picture from the school of the sun rising behind the flagpole.

Pavilion Central School's Class of '73 to celebrate 45th reunion Sept. 29

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Pavilion Central School’s Class of 1973 will be celebrating their 45th Class reunion with an informal gathering starting at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29 at BW’s, (Davis’ Country Meadow), 11070 Perry Road, Pavilion.

BW’s management has graciously agreed to accommodate the reunion to the best of their ability, as there will be a wedding going on in the back, just in case you wish to stay for dinner, but three bartenders will be on staff, so it may be busy.

Although many members of the class have been contacted, we hope you will pass this along again, for those who may have been missed, or just as a reminder. Many are attending from out of state, so let us get caught up!

Any questions, please contact Phil Plossl @ phil@pavdrain.com , or Eileen Graney @ earamino@aol.com

Sponsored Post: Look! Today's Open Houses

By Lisa Ace


Join us Saturday for TWO OPEN HOUSES:

 

164 Summit St., Batavia, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Comfortable and solid City colonial in nice neighborhood. Easy to see and super affordable!

This 3 bedroom, bath and a half home features very spacious room sizes, downstairs is open and great for entertaining but very homey. Some hardwood floors and gorgeous unpainted woodwork really give this home charm. Upstairs bedrooms are all large with closets and attic is already partially finished and with a little paint could be amazing extra living/play space!

Mechanically sound with nothing urgent to tackle but what you want to do! Enjoy the front porch that has the forever trexx decking to enjoy the neighborhood or have your morning coffee on the back deck to enjoy the peacefulness of the cute back yard-either way come check out a really nice home! Call Lynn Bezon today to see this listing or click here for more information.

147 Pearl Street Road, Batavia, 1 - 2:30 p.mSolidly maintained 3 bedroom bath and a half home! Completely gutted and remodeled within the last 5 years --beautifully done and nothing for you to do but enjoy!

Full tear off roof 4 yrs ago Beautiful cherry cabinetry with granite countertops and all stainless appliances to stay plus washer/dryer! Extra large family/dining area perfect for entertaining with pretty gas fireplace! Super convenient upstairs laundry and 3 large bedrooms. All new carpeting thru out!

Outside features extra wide drive and double lot with great deck -- inexpensive utilities and NO flood insurance! SO MUCH BANG FOR THE BUCK AND EASY TO SEE AT MOMENT NOTICE! BE IN BEFORE THE HOLIDAYS! Call Lynn Bezon today to see this listing or click here for more information.

Sponsored Post: Check out these move in properties

By Lisa Ace


8009 Bank Street Road, Batavia. Looking for space? Then look no further! Check out this solid 5 bedroom, 3 full bath home in move in condition!

This well laid out spacious home has something for everybody – a newly redone and pretty kitchen with granite countertops, large dining area for friends & family, 5 good-sized bedrooms well spaced out to give everyone privacy and 3 FULL baths! You can never have enough seats!

When you walk in, you are welcomed into awesome foyer/sitting room with beautiful wet bar and fireplace with vaulted ceiling and leading to a two loft style bedrooms – perfect for guests or his and her offices! All mechanical updates are in good working order and all appliances included!

Last but definitely not least, LOCATION -- located in the town with 1.5 acres and minutes from Thruway for easy commutes to everywhere! Call Lynn Bezon today to see this listing or click here for more information.

6800 Junction Road, Pavilion. Super solid, move in ready, raised ranch home on quiet 1/2 acre country lot! Move in and enjoy no honey do lists on this 3 bedroom 2 full bath home.

Downstairs features large family room with gas fireplace pretty ceramic floors, brand new full bath -- perfect hang out room or an awesome large master bedroom suite! Upstairs features hardwood floors large open kitchen/dining/living space ideal for entertaining! Three bedrooms with full closets and another brand new bath-not a lot to do here but decorate!

Outside is nicely landscaped and lot backs up to fields with pretty views -- very easy to see! Call Lynn Bezon today to see this listing or click here for more information.

Batavia, Le Roy, Pavilion to receive more than $2.5 million for school technoloy

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

New York State Senator Michael H. Ranzenhofer has announced today the approval of Smart School Investment Plans for three school districts in Genesee County, including $2,543,552 for high-tech security and school connectivity. The funding is part of the Smart Schools Bond Act.

“Our children have unlimited potential to succeed, but only if our school districts get their fair share of state dollars,” Ranzenhofer said. “This investment will turn that potential into reality by ensuring Batavia City, Le Roy and Pavilion schools get the best resources to foster student success in a global economy.”

High-tech security funding has been authorized in the amounts of $1,940,585 for Batavia City School District and $348,300 for Pavilion School District. Le Roy School District has been approved for $254,667 in school connectivity funding.

Schools can invest these funds in classroom technology, school connectivity, and high-tech security upgrades to better prepare students for success in the 21st century. 

“The Batavia City School District is going to use SSBA funds to install and upgrade high tech security to assure the safety and well-being of our students and staff in all buildings to assist in maintaining a safest possible learning environment. We are planning on installing new card readers, new door contacts, electronic door strikes, wireless locksets, fixed high-definition cameras, door closers, and motion detectors," said Batavia City School District Superintendent Christopher J. Dailey.

"These improvements will allow our focus to remain on student learning while creating a safe environment for our students and staff to work, learn and grow,” 

Pavilion Central School Superintendent Kenneth J. Ellison said “Pavilion Central Schools will use the recently approved Smart School Investment Plan funds to upgrade our video security system to provide a safe and secure learning environment. The existing system was installed many years ago has limited coverage and minimal storage capacity.

"Our goal is to upgrade our system and expand coverage in all areas. These funds will make it possible to cover all targeted areas on campus with a state of the art camera security system."

The Smart Schools Review Board is responsible for approval of the plan. In 2014, voters approved the $2 billion statewide school investment to finance educational technology and infrastructure.

Pavilion senior and volunteer firefighter walks 110 flights of stairs to honor the victims of 9-11

By Howard B. Owens

Today Timothy Zipfel, a senior at Pavilion High School and a volunteer with the Pavilion Fire Department, donned his turnout gear and air tank today to walk 110 flights of stairs at the school in honor of the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks on America.

Of course, Pavilion only has three flights of stairs, so Zipfel walked up three flights and then down three flights about 36 times to complete the 110 flights.

There were 110 flights of stairs in each of the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City.

The attack was 17 years ago and Zipfel is only 17 years old. He said the impact of the attack hit him when he was young when his parents told him about it and he determined then that he would do something to honor the victims.

This is the second year he's climbed the stairs.

"I believe that today is one of the days that no one in this great nation should ever forget," Zipfel said. "I feel like it should be honored."

Genesee County 4-H'er wins 2018 4-H Holstein Master Showman award at NY State Fair

By Billie Owens

Photo: Emily Mikel and her cow, Bingo, received the award for 2018 4-H Holstein Master Showman at the New York State Fair in Syracuse.

Submitted photo and press release:

Genesee County 4-H’er Emily Mikel, of Pavilion, finished her 4-H career with top honors at the Great New York State Fair in Syracuse.

This year marks Emily Mikel’s 11th and final year in the Genesee County 4-H program.

Emily has been active in both the 4-H Dairy Club and 4-H Swine Club. She has shown great leadership and passion for both 4-H and the dairy industry. Her honors also include being named Genesee County Dairy Queen in 2015.

She is a prime example of the leaders that the 4-H program annually graduates.

In her final season of 4-H, Emily exhibited her quality Holsteins at the 2018 New York State Fair. She won many awards with her animals including Grand Champion.

Emily competed against more than 40 4-H’ers from across the state for title of 2018 4-H Holstein Master Showman. After facing tough competition, Emily and her cow, Mikelholm Dempsy Bingo,won it all.

Congratulations to Emily as the 2018 4-H Holstein Master Showman at the New York State Fair.

To learn more about Genesee County 4-H visit: http://genesee.cce.cornell.edu/

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