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Six Flags Darien Lake

Popular Color Me Rad 5K returning to Darien Lake on June 21

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Back by popular demand, the Color Me Rad 5K, a nationally recognized human tie-dye spectacle and run/walk, is returning to Darien Lake for its second year bigger and better than before. More than 6,800 racers came out for the event last year, raising $15,000 for the Special Olympics of New York. This year, registration will be open to 10,000 participants so even more color-plastered racers can get in on the fun while supporting a great cause.

What makes Color Me Rad so unique is the excitement and entertainment generated by thousands of racers running through the scenic grounds at Darien Lake while a Color Bomb Squad takes aim their shirts, faces, and hair with a rainbow array of colors. A new element to the fun this year, racers will get hand-held color blasters so everyone can get in on the action.   

The event is June 21.

Registration for the run/walk is now open at http://www.colormerad.com/race/buffalo.  

“We strive to partner with organizations and families to create special moments that their kids will share with their kids. There’s no doubt that this is going to be a colorful memory worth sharing,” said Rod Rankin, vice president and general manager of Darien Lake. 

Participants are encouraged to continue their fun after the race with a day at Darien Lake. Accommodations packages are available for registered participants at www.godarienlake.com.

"Special Olympics New York is delighted to be the beneficiary of, and to partner with, Darien Lake and Color Me Rad 5K for this tremendously fun event in June,” said Special Olympics of New York President and CEO Neal Johnson. "Color Me Rad 5K is an energetic event for all, where the volunteers have just as much fun as the participants. Whether you register to run or volunteer for the race, you'll be helping Darien Lake and Color Me Rad 5K support more than 56,000 Special Olympics athletes across the state."

More than 5,000 pounds of FDA-approved, colored cornstarch will be used during the event. In addition to “Color Bomb Squad” volunteers spread along the 3.1-mile course, walkers and runners will also be able to toss their own bags of color into the air, creating an unforgettable display of color.

Photos from last year's Color Me Rad at Darien Lake by Howard Owens.

A race of the living dead at Darien Lake brings visitors from all over WNY

By Howard B. Owens

Hundreds of runners were asked this morning to navigate a 5K course filled with zombies at Darien Lake Theme Park.

The rUNDEAD race was held to benefit Special Olympics and organized and supported by volunteers from throughout WNY, including a collection of zombies near the finish line who a part of the same group in Tonawanda.

Each runner was issued three flags. Those who managed to make it through the course with at least one flag was eligible for a prize. The zombies, rather than seeking the brains of runners, were hungry for flags.

Speed seemed essential when a runner needed to sprint through a gauntlet of zombies.

 

Say "Cheese" -- Arlowe Price, Fattie King and Sam Pecoraro. Price is the owner of Savage Buffalo Carnival whose family has been performing in carnivals and freak shows for five generations. He said he performs frequently in the Buffalo area, but has never been invited to perform anywhere in Genesee County. Here's his Facebook page.

Mike and Cindy Baskin, from Naples. They skipped today's Grape Festival to be zombies in Darien.

Brenda Fox, a proud member of The Batavian Club, and her daughter Indigo at the start line of the race.

To purchase prints of photos, click here.

Darien Lake hosts festival celebrating cultures from around the world

By Howard B. Owens

Information and photos provided by Tipping Point Media.

This weekend, Darien Lake Theme Park is hosting a Festival of Nations, celebrating cultures and heritages from around the world.

The festival features 19 various bands and dance teams from across Western New York from a variety of backgrounds – Middle Eastern, Brazilian, Irish, German, Polish, African American, Asian, and classic American Country.

The festival continues on Sunday with 11 different live performances from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Photos: Fiesta Latino Americana at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

Today Darien Lake Theme Park hosted the “Fiesta Latino Americana." The event was an all day festival of Latino music and dancing, including dance lessons for guests.

Unfortunately, my schedule didn't allow me to be there but for a short time today. I did drop in to see the Victor Antonetti Band.

Thirty-six people arrested or issued citations at John Mayer concert at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

The following people were arrested by the Sheriff's Office during the John Mayer Concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Tuesday.

Robert M. Murphy, 34, Brixton Trail, Webster, is charged with two counts of assault, 3rd, after allegedly causing two Live Nation security guards injuries while he was being ejected from the venue. One security guard sustained a broken finger and the other Security Guard sustained a severe laceration to his head. Murphy was arraigned in Darien Court and remanded to jail in lieu of $500 bail.

(name redacted upon request), 16, Huntington Court, Williamsville, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.

Christian R. Amering, 18, Landing Road, North Rochester, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.

Casey A. Hanson, 19, Monroe Street, Brockport, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.

Abby E. Vitale, 16, Beanpole Circle, Farmington, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.

Zachary J. Manners, 19, Lori Lane, Rochester, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.

Chase A. Squires, 18, Pinyon Court, Clarence Center, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and possession of alcohol under age 21 after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana and alcohol being under age 21.

Lauren J. Baldwin, 21, Newhouse Road, East Amherst, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.

James R. Roberts, 19, Campbell Boulevard, Getzville, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.

Maxwell J. Gerling, 18, Ross Common Crescent, Fairport, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.

Sarah M. LeGrett, 18, Lantern Lane, Honeoye Falls, is charged with false personation after allegedly providing a false name.

Kevin M. Burke, 17, Chase View Road, Fairport, is charged with disorderly conduct, unlawful possession of marijuana and possession of alcohol under age 21 after allegedly causing a disturbance in the concert entrance. Burke was also allegedly found to be in possession of marijuana and alcohol being under age 21.

Elizabeth E. Desino, 23, Crestview Drive, Pittsford, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.

The following people were issued citations for alleged possession or consumption of alcohol under age 21:

Michael B. McLaughlin, 18, Hillcrest Drive, Penfield
Bryan M. Smith, 20, Charnick Drive, Adams
Jacob M. Witkin, 19, Old Farm Circle, Williamsville
Robert J. Rummings, 19, Campbell Boulevard, Getzville
Teresa M. Braun, 19, Chestnut Crescent, Rochester
Joshua C. Eidem, 18, Bromley Road, Pittsford
Jessica L. Shafer, 18, Blanchard Street, Jamestown
Brianna L. Harris, 18, Van Buren Street, Jamestown
Jacob D. Richter, 19, Beanpole Circle, Farmington
Magdalyn T. Meyers, 19, Niagara Parkway, Stevensville, Ontario, Canada
Allyson J. Fleck, 18, Heritage Drive, Lancaster
Tyler D. Guarasci, 20, Williamsburg Lane, Lancaster
Ryan A. Massino, 18, Division Street, Lancaster
Leanna A. Sherman, 20, Ellington Drive, Rochester
Amber R. Shechter, 19, Pebble Hill Road, Fairport
Emily B. Rosen, 19, Valley Brook Lane, East Amherst
Alyson A. Plucknette, 19, Elmford Road, Rochester
James D. Cairns, 20, Walworth Road, Ontario, Canada
John R. Wise, 18, Downsview Drive, Rochester
Abigail C. G. Caswell, 19, Washburn Street, Lockport
Eric J. Booth, 20, Elmwood Place, Sherrill
Kyle B. Pendell, 18, Wincanton Drive, Fairport
Gregory J. Deppas, 18, Park Street, Jamestown

Darien Lake Theme Park reopens after water main break forces two-hour closure

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Darien Lake confirms that its amusement park and water park were closed for approximately two hours today, after the water supply was accidentally cut off.

Monroe County Water Authority had been conducting routine maintenance nearby, which adversely affected the park’s water supply at 11:30 a.m. During the outage, Darien Lake’s bathrooms, food service, and water park were affected.

Darien Lake management closed the park at noon for guest safety. The park’s maintenance crews restored service before 1 p.m., and the park was reopened by 2 p.m.

Eight people arrested during Zac Brown concert at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

The following people were arrested Sunday by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Zac Brown Band concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center.

Thomas R. Cartere, 22, Graver Road, Niagara Falls, is charged with trespass after allegedly jumping a fence into the concert venue.

Patrick J. Conte, 22, Cayuga Road, Niagara Falls, is charged with trespass after allegedly jumping a fence into the concert venue.

Michael J. Adornetto, 24, Foxhunt Lane, East Amherst, is charged with disorderly conduct after allegedly causing a disturbance at the concert venue.

Michael P. Kedley, 35, Daytona Avenue, Webster, is charged with disorderly conduct after causing a disturbance as he was being ejected from the concert venue.

Samuel J. Carrigan, 50, Hayes Road, Montour Falls, is charged with disorderly conduct after allegedly causing a disturbance as he left the concert venue.

Sandra C. Bauer, 53, Meadow Drive, Boston, is charged with trespass after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.

Nicholas H. Nadrowski, 20, Lakeview Road, Lakeville, is charged with trespass and resisting arrest after reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return. Nadrowski then allegedly fought with deputies while being arrested.

Brittany D. McGown , 23, Ash Street, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, was arrested for trespass after allegedly entering the concert venue without a ticket. McGown was released on $100 pre-arraignment bail.

The following people were issued citations for alleged possession/consumption of alcohol under age 21:

Alyssa T. Berkholder, 20, California Road, Orchard Park
Keegan M. Phalen, 20, South Willow Road, East Aurora
Jillian K. Voit, 18, South Woodland Ridge, Elma
Valerie A. Zgoda, 20, Preserve Road, West Seneca
Alexis M. Loffredo, 18, Palecrest Court, West Seneca
Jillian M. Polinski, 19, Valley View Drive, Elma
Nolan A. Ringo, 20, Valley View Drive, Hamburg
Cameron J. Coon, 16, Queens Lane, Hamburg
(Name redacted upon request), 19, Enchanted Forest, South Depew
Rebekah S. Czerniak, 20, Fairview Drive, Alden
Jonathan A. Voss, 17, Bekoda Road, Scottsville
Jonathan K. Cappotelli, 19, West Main Street, Caledonia
Daniel P. Biggins, 19, County Road #11, Rushville
Rachel A. McConnell, 18, South Wind Way, Rochester
Brianna J. Jager, 18, Evergreen Drive, Rochester
Amanda T. Winkler, 20, McKinley Parkway, Blasdell
Alyssa C. Winkler, 18, McKinley Parkway, Blasdell
Ryan A. McGillicuddy, 17, West Pleasant Drive, Eden
Sarah M. Deberardinis, 19, Prospect Street, Angola
(name redacted upon request), 19, Chase View Road, Fairport
(name redacted upon request), 20, Whitney Road, Fairport
Bradley E. Wellenzohn, 18, East Rolling Hills Drive, Orchard Park
Tyler J. Hayden, 18, Ridgewood Road, Buffalo
(Name redacted upon request), 18, Canterbury Trail, Fairport
Courtney J. Simon, 17, Atlantic Avenue, Fairport
Hannah C. Larson, 19, Cable Street, Buffalo
Danielle M. T. Pratts, 18, Fremont Avenue, West Seneca
Carly R. Hatten, 20, North Creek Road, Lakeview
Rebecca M. Bentley, 19, Cassandra Circle, Churchville
Kaila S. Fox, 20, South Prince Street, Depew

Photos: Color Me Rad 5K at Darien Lake Theme Park

By Howard B. Owens

More than 8,500 people showed up at Darien Lake Theme Park today for the Color Me Rad 5K Technicolor Run and Walk. The event, which benefits Special Olympics, puts participants through a course filled with "color bombs" -- storms of colored cornstarch.

Tie-dye spectacle and 5K run 'Color Me Rad' stops at Darien Lake on Saturday

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The nationally recognized tie-dye spectacle and 5K run “Color Me Rad” stops at Darien Lake on Saturday, June 22, and is expected to draw more than 7,000 people, with nearly 6,300 already pre-registered for the race. Proceeds of the event will benefit the Special Olympics of New York.

Racers will be dressed in all white and run through the scenic grounds at Darien Lake while a Color Bomb Squad, made up of volunteers spread along the 3.1-mile course, takes aim at runners’ shirts, faces, and hair with a rainbow array of colors. More than 5,000 pounds of FDA-approved, colored cornstarch will be used during the event!

In addition to the Color Bomb Squad, walkers and runners will also be able to toss their own bags of color into the air, creating an unforgettable Technicolor display across the park.

In addition to the Color Me Rad 5K, families and participants of all ages are encouraged to take advantage of the numerous race weekend activities, including a Friday evening all-you-can-eat pasta dinner with live entertainment and Saturday post-race festivities in the amusement park.

On race day:
8:30 a.m.- - Onsite registration for the race begins
9 a.m. -- The first color bombs fly and waves of runners hit the course. (*Waves of runners depart every 20 minutes.)
11 a.m. -- Race ends

The amusement park is located at 9993 Alleghany Road in Darien Center

About "Color Me Rad"

Inspired by the Holi Festival of India, "Color Me Rad" is in its second year of turning runners into color revelers. This is the first year Color Me Rad comes to Western New York, and Darien Lake marks the 27th stop on this year’s nationwide tour. Color Me Rad™ will hold races across the U.S. and Canada in more than 50 cities. For more information and to see additional race locations, visit www.colormerad.com or check out what fans have to share on Facebook at www.facebook.com/colormerad.

Darien Lake hosts annual Father's Day Car Show this weekend

By Billie Owens

Darien Lake will host its annual Father’s Day Car Show this weekend, June 15-16.

Hundreds of car enthusiasts are expected to gather to share in this family tradition, and compete for the People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice awards.

Dad and the whole family will also have the opportunity to vote on the coolest cars from rods, sports, customs, convertibles, antiques, and tuners for the People’s Choice Awards, which will be given out during Saturday’s show. On Sunday, the Special Judge’s Choice awards will be announced at 2:30 p.m.

Event Date and Time
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Darien Lake opens 2013 with greater emphasis on family and WNY

By Howard B. Owens

Darien Lake Theme Park is getting back to basics -- entertaining families and celebrating its Western New York roots.

Symbolic of that theme was the grand opening today of the 2013 season with a ceremony honoring Paul Snyder, the founder of Darien Lake Fun Country, which was primarily a campground until 1981, when Snyder opened an amusement park.

Snyder, now owner of Beaver Hollow in Java, said he wanted to create a family-oriented atmosphere and he's glad to see Darien's current owners, Herschend Family Entertainment, putting more emphasis on family rides and attractions.

"They've turned it back into a family-oriented resort," Snyder (top photo) said. "I think when Six Flags owned it, they made it kind of a hard-ride park for teenagers and young adults. It was different and harder and I think (the present ownership) has done of good job of turning it back into a family-oriented park. They've done a good job."

New this year is an area called Boardwalk, which features a renovated carousal and Blast Off, a brand new ride that General Manager Bob Montgomery called a "family thrill ride."  It simulates the feeling of "riding a rocket ship to the moon," generating four Gs of air-powered force.

Also new this year is an Anchor Bar food stand, which fits into a growing trend at Darien Lake to feature things that make WNY special. The original Anchor Bar in Buffalo, of course, is where buffalo wings were invented.

The park also serves two other WNY delicacies, Perry's ice cream and Sahlen's hot dogs.

Local music will also get a little extra attention this summer with local bands being invited in for a summer-long battle of the bands.

One of the upgrades to the carousal was decorating it with paintings of WNY scenes (two photographs by Howard Owens were turned into paintings for the carousel -- a picture of a barn in Stafford and a sunrise over Harlow Lake (pictures below).

All of Herschend's parks feature regional themes, Montgomery said, but it's also what the company's research showed people wanted as part of the Darien experience.

Even our Canadian visitors, they're coming to a different country and they wanted an experience that reflected that," Montgomery said. "That's why we began the relationship with Anchor Bar. That's going to be appreciated by our local visitors, but by the people that come from further away as well."

The park's light show has also been upgraded into a bigger laser and fireworks show called "Ignite the Night."

The creation of Broadwalk, installation of Blast Off and creation of "Ignite the Night" was a lot to take on over the off-season, Montgomery said, so the push toward more WNY touches is far from over. There's only so much that can be done during a single off-season.

"You'll see that more and more as we make our way around the park with renovations, bringing those things in," Montgomery said.

Snyder is clearly proud of what the park he started as become and said it's something Genesee County should treasure.

"Darien Lake is the largest privately owned attraction in the State of New York," Snyder said. "A lot of people don't know that, the fact that it employs thousands of young people every year and that employment probably helps keep those kids working and out of trouble -- there's just so many benefits that flow from the investment of hundreds of millions of dollars at this point, it's unique and special."

Darien Lake adding legendary Anchor Bar to park's offerings

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

The legendary Buffalo, N.Y., Anchor Bar franchise announced today they will be cooking up wings in a whole new way this summer, with the opening of their newest location at Darien Lake Theme Park. The new in-park Anchor Bar opening will coincide with the first day of the park’s 2013 season on May 11th. When guests visit the new in-park Anchor Bar, they can expect the same authentic wings at the same prices but in an exciting new atmosphere. 

“We’re thrilled to bring a Western New York favorite like Anchor Bar to the park this season,” said Bob Montgomery, Darien Lake general manager. “Guests can now grab a bucket of crispy original buffalo wings, and relax on the outdoor deck at Anchor Bar all while surrounded by the fun and excitement you’d expect from Darien Lake.”

“Opening a new location at Darien Lake is a very exciting moment for Anchor Bar,” said Ivano Toscani, president, Anchor Bar Franchises. “We couldn’t be happier that our latest business partnership is with one of the most fun places in Western New York.”

The in-park Anchor Bar is part of several cosmetic and capital improvements this season at Darien Lake designed to bring the park back to its Western New York roots. Improvements include: the latest ride addition to the park, Blast-off, a spaceship like thrill ride that skyrockets guests into the air at 4g speeds; the $1 million Ignite the Night laser show; and the all-new Lakefront Boardwalk area, which is a tribute to the region’s lakes and is also the location for the new Anchor Bar.

Darien Lake is also partnering this season with several other local businesses including Tim Hortons, Webers Mustard, Sahlen’s Hot Dogs, and Perry’s Ice Cream.

GCEDC approves tax assistance for three projects, including Darien Lake expansion

By Howard B. Owens

The Genesee County Economic Development Center Board of Directors has approved assistance with the following projects:

Darien Lake Theme Park. Darien Lake is planning new cabins and new rides for 2013. The total investment by Darien Lake is $5.2 million and theme park management sought assistance with $1.9 million of the investment. The board approved a PILOT (reduced property tax on the increase in assessed value due to the improvements) worth $147,339 over 10 years. The project will also save $132,000 on sales tax for construction materials. The project is expected to generate six additional full-time equivalent jobs. Darien Lake employees more than 400 FTEs.

Reed Batavia Properties, LLC. Reed is in the process of purchasing the former Batavia City Schools administration building at 39 Washington Ave., Batavia. The company is planning $1.525 million in improvements to the building, converting it to medical offices. The GCEDC board approved a $76,361 PILOT, $52,000 in sales tax exemption, and a $12,500 mortgage tax exemption. The project is expected to generate six new jobs.

Batavia Hospitality, Inc. (Days Inn / Super 8). The company is planning on investing $530,000 in building improvements, including a new pitched roof, exterior facelift and interior upgrades. GCEDC's board approved a PILOT worth $54,198 over 10 years and sales tax exemption of $28,000. The project is expected to create five new jobs and help retain 16 jobs.

Darien Lake Theme Park settles suit in roller coaster death of Iraq War veteran

By Howard B. Owens

Attorneys for the estate of James T. Hackemer and Darien Lake Theme Park have reached a settlement in the wrongful death lawsuit filed by Hackemer's family, according to the Buffalo News.

The decorated and disabled Iraq War veteran died at the theme park in July 2011 when he was ejected from the Ride of Steel while on an outing with his family.

The Buffalo News reports that as part of the settlement, Darien Lake does not admit liability but will provide Hackemer's daughters, both under age 10, an annuity with a total value that exceeds $1 million.

“Darien Lake and its management are relieved to settle this case,” said Hugh M. Russ III, a lawyer for the amusement park. “And while they admit no liability, they did feel obligated to help care for Mr. Hackemer’s two children.”

The exact amount of the settlement is confidential under terms of the agreement.

Magician Aaron Radatz to awe audiences at Darien Lake's FrightFest

By Billie Owens

New for FrightFest 2012, magician Aaron Radatz will up the ante of this year’s fall festivities. On Friday evenings at 7:30, he will face three primal fears: the fear of drowning, the fear of small spaces, and the fear of death, as he is handcuffed and submerged into a steel drum of ice-cold water. He will only have a lock pick and the air in his lungs to try and free himself before time runs out.

On Saturday nights at 7:30, he will put his life on the line again by hanging 40 feet in the air upside-down in a straitjacket and attempt to beat legendary magician Harry Houdini's best time at the same escape.

Both of these shock-and-awe performances will take place on stage near The Emporium.

For the fearless few, be sure to check out Dr. D.C. East’s House of Horrors, the Final Field Trip, Road Rage Cage, and the Possessed Twister for a frightfully good time. Families will also find fun and entertaining activities such as pumpkin painting, the Monster Mash Dance Party, a trick or treat trail, and the LaserBlast Spooktacular show.

Also, comedy duo Jessie and James will bring their unique blend of physical comedy and circus arts to entertain the audience.

Rowdy’s Ridge and all six roller coasters will be open on Saturday during the day along with other rides. FrightFest hours of operation are Fridays 6 to 10:00 p.m. and Saturdays 12 to 10 p.m., now through Oct. 13, plus one Sunday -- Oct. 7

For more information on FrightFest visit www.DarienLake.com or call 585-599-4641.

Attorney told to expect upgraded charge against Niagara Falls cop accused of fighting in Darien Lake bathroom

By Howard B. Owens

A Niagara Falls police officer accused of hitting a fellow concertgoer inside a women's room at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Aug. 25 could face a Class A misdemeanor charge of assault in the third degree, according to her attorney.

Attorney Norm Effman, out of Warsaw, said he was retained today to represent Kelly L. Alcorn (top photo), a 23-year veteran of the police force, who was initially arrested on a Class B misdemeanor charge of harassment, 2nd.

A woman who claims she was the victim of Alcorn has reportedly contacted the District Attorney's Office requesting more serious charges be levied against Alcorn.

Elizabeth R. Dake, 45, of Farmington, reportedly told the Buffalo News that she suffered a concussion and bruises and that she missed nine days of work as a result of the confrontation.

The fight, according to court documents, appears to have involved at least four women and may have escalated after Dake intervened on behalf of a woman Alcorn was yelling at, according to her statement, for cutting in line.

Dake reportedly told Alcorn to relax and stop yelling.

Alcorn then allegedly turned on Dake and punched her and threw her into a bathroom wall. Dake fell to the ground and Alcorn allegedly began hitting Dake while she was down.

An uninvolved witness reportedly told Deputy Lonnie Nati that Alcorn was "flailing her arms like a windmill throwing wild punches."

Another witness reported seeing Alcorn use a closed fist to allegedly strike Dake.

Also arrested that night was Karen M. Walker, 35, of Niagara Falls, on a charge of harassment, 2nd. Walker allegedly hit another patron who tried to prevent Alcorn from allegedly hitting Dake.

Effman told Darien Town Justice Gary Graber that he was informed today that a new charge of third-degree assault could be filed against his client.

Outside of court, Effman said it's his understanding the investigation is still open, which means Alcorn may yet face a felony charge.

A felony charge, such as assault ,2nd, would likely jeopardize Alcorn's law enforcement career.

Effman said both the prosecution and defense are awaiting medical reports, which will provide details on the seriousness of the alleged injuries and determine the charge to file against Alcorn.

Assault, 3rd, requires only injury to the victim and assault, 2nd, requires serious physical injury.

Today, hours prior to Alcorn's appearance in Darien, District Attorney Lawrence Friedman said no decision has been made yet on what charges Alcorn may face.

In court, while waiting for her case to be called, Alcorn sat with Walker. After her case was over, Alcorn waited for Walker's case to be heard -- Walker also pled not guilty -- and the two women left the courthouse together.

Alcorn is scheduled to reappear in Darien Town Court on Oct. 23 and Walker on Sept. 25.

Asked if there are two sides this story as there are to every story, Effman said, "There’s always three sides to every story. It depends on how many people and how they view events. We don’t really know what’s going to happen. We haven’t seen any medical evidence. We’re simply at the beginning of the process. We’ve entered a plea of not guilty and that’s our position."

Victim seeks felony charges against off-duty cop from Niagara she says assaulted her at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

UPDATED Tuesday, 8:36 a.m. with additional info from Sheriff's Office press release.

A Finger Lakes-area woman has reportedly written the District Attorney's Office and requested charges against a woman arrested at the Aug. 25 Jason Aldean concert be upgraded to a felony.

The suspect, 47-year-old Kelly Alcorn, is a 23-year veteran of the Niagara Falls Police Department, according to the Buffalo News.

Alcorn, of Town Hall Terrace West, Grand Island, was arrested at the concert for second-degree harassment, but Elizabeth Dake, 45, in a letter she sent to the News, describes a more serious attack.

Dake said she suffered a concussion and bruises and she missed nine days of work.

According to the News article, Dake accuses Alcorn of slamming her into a cement wall, punching her in the head, neck, arm and back.

A Sheriff's Office press release alleges that Alcorn punched a female in the face several times. Alcon was issued an appearance ticket returnable to Darien Town Court at 5 p.m. today.

Niagara Falls Police Superintendent John R. Chella said the department is awaiting a determination on whether the charges will be upgraded. A felony charge could cost Alcorn her job.

Full Story from the Buffalo News.

Ten arrests at KISS concert at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department during the KISS concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Saturday.

Traci L. Bartlett, 43, of Beach Road, Syracuse, is charged with harassment, 2nd, and resisting arrest. When deputies attempted to arrest Bartlet she allegedly physically resisted being taken into custody. After being transported back to the security trailer, Bartlett allegedly kicked an officer that was walking past her. Bartlett was jailed on $500 bail.

Pamela Loughridge, 44, of Buffalo Street, Churchville, is charged with of harassment, 2nd, after allegedly fighting with a security guard. Loughridge allegedly bit the security officer and hit him in the throat. Loughridge was jailed in $250 bail.

Wes R. Schraufstetter, 39, of Niagara Street, Buffalo, is charged with of disorderly conduct. Schraufstetter allegedly engaged in disruptive and threatening behavior which was directed toward security officers and deputies. Schraufstetter was jailed on $250 bail.

Kyle J. Burdick, 23, of North Lyon Street, Batavia, is charged with of disorderly conduct. Burdick allegedly engaged in disruptive and threatening behavior which was directed toward his girlfriend, security officers and deputies. Burdick was jailed on $250 bail.

Bryan J. Sheridan, 31, of Reddick Lane, Rochester, is charged with trespass for allegedly refusing to leave the concert venue after being told to leave on several different occasions.

John A. Williams, 45, of 32nd Drive, Queens, is charged with trespass after allegedly jumping a fence in order to gain access to the concert venue.

Tracy A. Piller, 35, of Euclid Avenue, Bradford, Pa., is charged with trespass after allegedly refusing to leave the concert venue after being told to leave on several different occasions.

Brett M. Ferrington, 26, of Route 39, of Chaffee, is charged with of disorderly conduct. Ferrington allegedly engaged in disruptive and threatening behavior which was directed toward both security officers and deputies.

Michelle L. Shimburski, 24, of Genesee Street, Chaffee, is charged with of disorderly conduct. Shimburski allegedly engaged in disruptive and threatening behavior which was directed toward both security officers and deputies.

Michael J. Discipio, 43, of Bernhardt Drive, Amherst, is charged with of disorderly conduct. Discipio allegedly engaged in disruptive and threatening behavior which was directed toward both security officers and deputies.

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