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Byron-Bergen drama club breathes new life into a tale as old as time

By Press Release
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Photo of Malachi Smith as “Beast” and Gianna Clark as “Belle” 
by Gretchen Spittler.

Press Release:

On Thursday, March 7 the curtain rose on the sold-out run of Byron-Bergen Drama Club’s presentation of “Beauty & the Beast”. More than just a replica of Broadway, the Drama Club created a uniquely local presentation with original costumes and set pieces, including a wood-chopping machine designed and built by the High School Technology Club. 

They also included several references to local businesses and humorous cast interactions such as a student actress facing off against her real-life father during the battle for the enchanted castle.

From the imaginative shadow puppet narrations to the enchanted cheese grater, the Drama Club had the audience completely under their spell.

The young cast was anchored by seniors HannahRae Amador, Aurora Hiscutt, Malachi Smith, pit band percussionist Quintin Rich, and numerous experienced performers from last year’s presentation of “Hairspray”. Amador supported the village and castle ensembles both as an enthusiastic pub manager with a Viking helmet and wicked pirouette as well as a feisty coatrack, not afraid to defend the castle with loud whistles and impeccable comedic timing.

Hiscutt joined Gianna Graff, Katherine Rogoyski, and Genevieve Smith as the hysterical quartet of “silly girls” swooning after the vain and villainous Gaston. Hiscutt is a team player, bringing beautiful harmonies, giggles, and shrieks to the quartet as well as stepping out into the spotlight for solo work.

Rich, the only student-musician in a pit band full of seasoned professionals, kept the beat rolling from curtain to curtain including an epic three-minute drum solo of his own composition which acted as the lone score for the castle battle scene.

M. Smith took on the title antagonist turned hero, cursed into a monstrous appearance and racing the clock to return himself and his enchanted household to human form. He balanced Beast’s fierce roar and explosive temper with soaring tortured ballads, highlighting his skilled vocals. M. Smith impressed both with his physical acting as he single-handedly battled a pack of acrobatic wolves and with the tenderness that transcended his claws and prosthetic headpiece during his interactions with Belle.

Sophomore Gianna Clark is masterfully expressive, creating a Belle who was more than just an avid reader, but whose affection for her father and enchanted friends was as real as her ever-growing contempt for her supercilious suiter, Gaston. Clark’s vocal performances showed not only her range and precision as a singer, but her talent for living the character through song.

Gaston, played by Sophomore Roman Smith, at first seemed nothing more than an arrogant buffoon with silly one-liners about his thighs, but R. Smith unleashed flashes of Gaston’s cruelty, which peaked as he and his sidekick Lefou whipped up a frenzied mob of townspeople to storm the Beast’s castle. Lefou, played by 7th grader Teagan Williams, demonstrated his talent for physical comedy in a performance full of pratfalls, spills, and some truly astonishing choreography which he nailed while also belting out lead vocals in the pub scene.

The enchanted castle is staffed by a cast of magical objects with personalities as huge as their dance numbers. They were led by key performers Rylee Burch (9th grade), Abby Cook (11th grade), Bradley Pocock (10th grade), Michael Rogoyski (8th grade), and Jade Wolff (11th grade).

Burch took the role of Madame de la Grande Bouche, an opera performer turned wardrobe whose commanding soprano melodies were as graceful as the unexpected ease with which she handled the complex choreography, as a large piece of furniture. Abby Cook doubled as Babette, the feather duster, and a primary dancer in several villager scenes. 

Also, as a Dance Captain, Cook’s fancy footwork brought energy to the dance numbers and helped maintain the storyline of ongoing flirtation with the debonaire candelabra, Lumiere played by Pocock. 

Pocock was effervescent, delivering over-the-top puns and punchlines in a rococo suit and powdered wig. His scene-stealing levity was in sharp contrast to the curmudgeonly clock, Cogsworth, played by Rogoyski. 

Rogoyski nailed the strait-laced, “tightly wound” timepiece with a pompous but good-natured air and bursts of hilarity and sincerity that brought the character to life. 

Wolff rounded out the troupe, literally, in a huge, willow-patterned hoop skirt, taking on the role of Mrs. Potts, the teapot. Wolff delivered charm, personality, and the iconic title solo. Her smooth, dynamic vocals set the scene for Belle and Beast to fall in love.

The supporting cast of villagers and enchanted objects brought depth to the musical as each performer embodied unique characters such as the baker, pin cushion, farmer, potted plant, tailor, or chandelier. The ensemble pulled in the crowd, filling the stage with energy during the epic musical numbers such as Belle’s opening stroll through town, “Human Again”, and the showstopping “Be Our Guest”. 

The stage crew, led by Estelle Dumuhosky and Maryn Meier, also played a pivotal role in moving the story seamlessly from village to castle and through to the storybook ending.

The Jr./Sr, High School students were joined by several elementary school students who danced their way through “Be Our Guest” as forks, spoons, and dinner mints. Third-graders Austyn Krol and Naylee Robinson share the role of Chip, the teacup. Both young ladies deliver energetic and adorable performances. Also joining the cast are 6th Grade Teacher Ken Rogoyski as the lovable, zany Maurice and Aaron Burch as the menacing asylum manager, Monsieur D’arque.

Byron-Bergen’s production of “Beauty & the Beast” was directed by Alyson Mercedes Tardy, musical direction by Joe Paris, pit band direction by Kevin Bleiler, and choreography by Solange Rodrigues. Congratulations to the cast, crew, staff, and volunteers.

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Photo of Rylee Burch leads a dance of enchanted objects
by Gretchen Spittler.
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Photo of Teagan Williams as “Lefou” and Roman Smith as “Gaston”
by Gretchen Spittler.
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Photo of Byron-Bergen Drama Club presenting Beauty and the Beast
by Gretchen Spittler.
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Photo of cast performing “Be Our Guest”
by Gretchen Spittler.
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Photo of Malachi Smith’s first stage appearance as “Beast” with castle cast
by Gretchen Spittler.
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Photo of (from left to right) Jade Wolff as “Mrs. Potts”, Michael Rogoyski as “Cogsworth” and Bradley Pocock as “Lumiere”
by Gretchen Spittler.

Local students on SUNY Oswego honor rolls

By Press Release

Press Release:

SUNY Oswego recently recognized several Genesee County residents as high academic achievers on its President’s List and Deans’ List for the fall 2023 semester.

President's List students are those attaining semester grade-point averages of 3.8 or higher while carrying required academic credits. Students on the President’s List include:

  • Cassidy C. Ball, Bergen, undeclared

Deans' List students are those attaining semester grade-point averages between 3.3 and 3.79 while carrying required academic credits. Students on the Dean's List include:

  • Cooper J. Fix, Batavia, wellness management
  • Ty C. Kornow, Basom, psychology
  • Mackenzie E. Lavrey, Batavia, cinema and screen studies

Law and Order: Batavia man accused of assaulting police officer during traffic stop

By Howard B. Owens
aaron fix
Aaron Fix

Aaron J. Fix, 50, of Batavia, is charged with assault 2nd, resisting arrest, criminal mischief 4th, and obstructing governmental administration 2nd. Fix is accused of interfering with the arrest of another person during a traffic stop on East Main Street, Batavia. When a deputy and Batavia patrol officer attempted to take Fix into custody, Fix allegedly resisted arrest and in the process, the officer was injured and a piece of the officer's equipment was damaged. Fix was arraigned and released.

Robert P. Tomaszewski, 56, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. A Batavia patrol officer stopped Tomaszewski on March 4 on River Street. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Alicia M. Lyons, 44, of Batavia, is charged with trespass. Lyons is accused of being at Kwik Fill on Mach 1 after being banned from the property. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Jeanna M. Hattaway, 44, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant. She is also charged with obstructing government administration 2nd, resisting arrest, and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Hattaway was located on March 4 walking on Tracy Avenue, When Batavia police officers attempted to take her into custody on the warrant. Hattaway allegedly ran from police but was caught a short distance away. Hattaway was also allegedly found in possession of methamphetamine at the time of her arrest. Hattaway was arraigned in City Court and ordered held on $3,000 bail, $6,000 bond, or $12,000 partially secured bond.

Charles A. Reichert, 41, of Batavia, is charged with riding a bicycle on a sidewalk. Reichert was issued a ticket on Feb. 25 following a personal injury accident. Reichert is accused of riding on the sidewalk before riding into the path of a vehicle. 

Naquan J. Shepherd, 24, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Shepherd was initially charged with harassment 2nd in January 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket. He is accused of failure to appear. Shepherd was arraigned and released.

Shane M. Ramos, 32, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Ramos is accused of shoving another person during a fight on Summit Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Monique E. Hampson, 31, of Batavia, was arrested on March 4 on a warrant. Hampson was initially charged on Dec. 29 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 2nd following a traffic stop on West Main Street. She is accused of failure to appear in court as ordered. Hampson was arraigned and released.

Jennifer N. Wilson, 36, of Batavia, is charged with criminal trespass 2nd, obstructing governmental administration 2nd, and resisting arrest. Wilson is accused of being inside a residence on Otis Street and then resisting arrest. She was arraigned and released.

Jonathan M. Falk, 25, of Batavia, was arrested on Feb. 26 on a warrant. He and another person allegedly stole merchandise from Seven-Eleven. Falk was initially charged with petit larceny and conspiracy 6th. He is accused of failure to appear in court as ordered. He was arraigned and released. 

Bryce D. Klehn, 18, of Batavia, is charged with disorderly conduct. Klehn is accused of throwing a lit firework on March 2 onto the porch of a residence on Montclair Avenue. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Erica M. Esten, 36, of Oakfield, is charged with harassment 2nd. Esten is accused of hitting another person in the face in a parking lot on East Main Street, Batavia, on March 2. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Starzha Monae Hilliard, 25, of Webster Manor Avenue, Rochester, is charged with falsifying business records 1st. Hilliard is accused of providing false personal information to deputies and corrections officers after being arrested on unrelated offenses and then signing official fingerprint documents under the false identity. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Tabatha Ann Torcello, 58, of Broadway Road, Alexander, is charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs and moving from lane unsafely. Torcello was charged after an investigation into an incident reported at 7:17 a.m. on Nov. 30.  At that time, deputies responded to a report of a car in a ditch off Route 98 in Alexander. She was arrested recently and issued an appearance ticket.

George Samuel Luce, 54, of Gildden Road, Holly, is charged with strangulation 2nd and assault 3rd. Luce is accused of chocking and punching a woman during an incident at a hotel on Park Road, Batavia, at 10:42 a.m. on March 6.

Joseph Thomas Jablonski, 59, of Clifton Avenue, Batavia, is charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs, aggravated unlicensed operation 1st, unregistered motor vehicle, and vehicle with improper license plates. Jablonski was stopped at 3:29 a.m. on March 7 on Clinton Street by Sgt. Mathew Clor. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Arnold Bryan Colopy, 66, of Knowlesville Road, Alabama, is charged with torturing or injuring animals/failure to provide substance. Colopy is accused of keeping two dogs in "deplorable" conditions. Following a report at 4:11 p.m. on March 7, Deputy Alexander Hardsall allegedly found two dogs without any food or water. Colopy was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Michael Andrew Hahn, 44, of Lewiston Road, Alabama, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operator, unregistered motor vehicle, and uninspected motor vehicle. Hahn was stopped by Deputy Carlos Ortiz Speed at 3:43 a.m. on March 4 on Buffalo Road, Bergen. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Jacqueline Raj Garrett, 44, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Garret is accused of stealing merchandise from Walmart at 2:50 p.m. on March 8. She was released on an appearance ticket.

Hawley visits Byron-Bergen Elementary as part of Read Across America day

By Press Release
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Submitted photo of Hawley's visit to Byron-Bergen Elementary.

Press Release:

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C-Batavia) visited Byron-Bergen, Kendall, and Barclay Elementary Schools for Read Across America Day. 

Hawley read to students in Ms. Conaghan and Mrs. Stephanek’s classrooms at Byron-Bergen Elementary School and Kendall Elementary School and spoke to two second-grade classes at Barclay Elementary School while participating in their yearly ‘crazy sock day.’ 

Hawley was happy to be able to visit with the students and inspire their love for reading on Read Across America Day.

“It was great to celebrate Read Across America Day with the students at Byron-Bergen, Barclay, and Kendall Elementary Schools,” said Hawley. “Reading is a great tool that helps us expand our minds and connect with others. I want to thank all of the schools, teachers, and staff members who are helping these students each day and making events like this possible.”

University brass quintet to perform at Bergen Evangelical Presbyterian Church, March 10

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Roberts Wesleyan University Brass Quintet will perform a free concert at the Bergen Evangelical Presbyterian Church at 6 p.m. on Sunday, March 10.

The Roberts Wesleyan Brass Quintet performs various styles ranging from early Baroque to modern music. It regularly performs at special events on and off campus, including commencement, accompanying the Chorale, and performing in departmental recitals. 

The quintet is directed by and performs with Dr. Paul Shewan, professor of instrumental studies, who teaches conducting and trumpet. Dr. Shewan is a member of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra trumpet section and has been a guest conductor numerous times. He has also performed with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.

The concert is part of a series the church offers to celebrate the renovation of the historic Viner pipe organ installed in the sanctuary in 1907. “We want to share a variety of music with our community, so we have planned a spring series of concerts in celebration,” said Alden Snell, church organist. 

The evening’s performance will include a performance of a hymn on the organ. 

Other concerts in the series are:

  • Jaclyn Breeze, flute, April 14, 6 pm. Ms. Breeze, from North Chili, is an American composer and flutist crafting pieces and programs that foster community between artists and audiences. Her works have been commissioned and performed by groups in North America, Europe, and Asia. 
  • George Collichio, guitar, special Door of Hope Coffeehouse event at the church, April 27, 6 p.m. Mr. Collichio is a national recording artist, performer, educator, and private guitar instructor from Rochester. He has nine national CD releases and plays over 100 shows per year. He is a college professor (guitar and music theory) and founder of "Collichio School of Music" with two locations and hundreds of students.
  • An organ recital featuring students from the Eastman School of Music will be held on Sunday, May 5, at 6 p.m. 

All concerts are at the Church, 38 South Lake St., Bergen. A free-will offering will be accepted.

Law and Order: Rochester man accused of fleeing police while in possession of large quantity of narcotics

By Howard B. Owens
chad burgess
Chad Burgess

Chad W. Burgess, 37, of St. Paul Street, Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 2nd, two counts of criminal possession of a narcotic with intent to sell, three counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, tampering with physical evidence, criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd, and unlawful fleeing a police officer. Burgess is accused of fleeing a traffic stop at 1:51 a.m. on Feb. 25 on Lewiston Road, Batavia. Both deputies and troopers pursued him before being captured on Park Road, Batavia. He was allegedly found in possession of a large quantity of narcotics. Burgess was held pending arraignment. The investigation was led by Deputy Ryan Mullen, assisted by Deputy Jeremiah Gechell.

oraid_blackshear
Oraid Blackshear

Oraid J. Blackshear, 19, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon 2nd, tampering with physical evidence, resisting arrest, and obstructing governmental administration 2nd. Blackshear is accused of fleeing police on foot and resisting arrest on Feb. 16 after officers attempted to take him in custody on a warrant. He was allegedly found in possession of a loaded firearm. Blackshear was arraigned and jailed on $1,000 cash bail.

Nikkia M. Farias, 26, of Batavia, is charged with obstructing governmental administration 2nd and resisting arrest. Farias is accused of trying to prevent police officers from arresting another person on Feb. 16 by pulling them away from officers as they attempted to take the suspect into custody. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Alan D. Tidd, 34, of Batavia, is charged with four counts of failure to register or verify as a sex offender, second offense. Tidd is accused of failing to register four internet identifiers related to social media accounts and a phone number. He was arraigned in City Court on Feb. 16 and jailed.

Wendy L. Henry, 39, of Batavia, Brian M. Raphael, 35, of Batavia, and Jessica D. Delcour, 41, of Batavia.  Henry, Raphael, and Delcour are accused of illegally entering an apartment on Feb. 12 on Fisher Park. All three were issued an appearance ticket.

Lisa R. Richmond, 35, of Batavia, was charged on Feb. 14 with petit larceny. Richmond is accused of stealing money allegedly intended for a Batavia City School fundraiser. She was arraigned and released on her own recognizance.

Douglas G. Goodwin, 32, of Batavia, is charged with criminal trespass 3rd. Goodwin is accused of unlawfully entering a building on Harvester Avenue on Dec. 27. He was issued an appearance ticket.

John A. Cabrera, Sr., 56, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Cabrera is accused of violating a stay-away order on Feb. 11 on Washington Avenue, Batavia. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

John H. Bush, Jr., 40, of Batavia, and Jennifer K. Freeman, 40,  of Batavia, were both arrested on Feb. 15 on warrants issued by City Court. The warrants stem from a traffic stop on June 30. Bush was charged with driving on a suspended registration, aggravated unlicensed operation, resisting arrest, and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Freeman was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Both are accused of failure to appear in court. They were arraigned and released.

Juan L. Figoura, 21, of Batavia, was arrested on a pair of warrants on Feb. 20. The first warrant charges Figoura with criminal contempt 1st, for allegedly violating an order of protection July 14. The other is related to an incident reported on Aug 17. Figoura is charged in that case with criminal contempt 1st, grand larceny 4th, criminal mischief 4th, petit larceny and harassment 2nd. Figoura was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Ihsaan Y. Parker, 22, of Rochester, was arrested on Feb. 22 on a warrant. Parker was initially charged on Aug 2, with operating a motor vehicle with registration suspended, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, and operating without a valid inspection.  Parker is accused of failure to appear in court as ordered on the initial charges. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Elijah G. Schultz, 29, of Mill Street, Le Roy, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, uninspected motor vehicle, consumption of alcohol in a motor vehicle, and unlicensed operator. Schultz was stopped in the Village of Le Roy at 1:36 a.m. on Feb. 12 by Deputy Ryan Mullen. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Gregory George Goodberlet, 66, of Lyman Road, Byron, is charged with DWI, aggravated unlicensed operation 1st, aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd, unlicensed driver, and moving from lane unsafely. Goodberlet was arrested at 4:39 p.m. on Feb. 19 at a location on Lyman Road following a welfare check. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Madeline Anne Morrison, 25, of Wood Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, driving on a suspended registration, and drinking alcohol or using cannabis in a motor vehicle on a highway. Morrison was stopped at 2:44 a.m. on Feb. 24 on Clinton Street Road, Batavia, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Michael Louis Harris, 55, of Marlbank Drive, Rochester, is charged with DWI, failure to keep right, and moving from lane unsafely.  Harris was stopped at 1:19 a.m. on Feb. 25 on Clinton Street Road, Bergen, by Sgt. Mathew Clor. He was held pending arraignment. 

Cody Alan Bush, Sr., 38, of Columbia Avenue, Batavia, is charged with aggravated harassment 2nd. Bush is accused of threatening the life of another person during a telephone call at 8:31 a.m. on Jan. 22. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Ross Conrad Poodry, 35, of Bloomingdale Road, Akron, is charged with felony DWI, aggravated unlicensed operation 1st, reckless driving, speed not reasonable and prudent, and failure to stop at stop sign. Poodry was reportedly involved in a property damage accident at 10:11 p.m. on Feb. 28 on Akron Road, Pembroke He was held pending arraignment. 

Victoria Helen Richards, 48, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Richards is accused of providing a child with drugs while at the Quality Inn and Suites at 2 p.m. on Feb. 27. Richards was issued an appearance ticket.

Dustin Larry Stump, 53, of State Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, moving from lane unsafely, and driving a vehicle without an inspection certificate. Stump was stopped at 4:10 p.m. on March 1 on Byron Holley Road, Byron, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Rosemary Renee Waters, 37, of East Main Street Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and criminal trespass 3rd. Waters was arrested following a traffic stop and roadside investigation by Deputy Jonathan Dimmig and Deputy Zachary Hoy on Feb. 25 at 4:05 p.m. on Beaver Meadow Road, Byron. Waters is accused of trespassing on CSX Railroad property and possessing a controlled substance. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Christy Lynne Thurston, 49, of Fetzner Road, Rochester, is charged with DWI, aggravated DWI, resisting arrest, open container, failure to keep right, speeding not reasonable and prudent,  and moving from lane unsafely. Thurston was arrested following the report of a motor vehicle accident at 2:59 p.m. on March 3 on Lockport Road, Oakfield, investigated by Deputy Mason Schultz and Deputy Morgan Ewert. Thurston was released on an appearance ticket.

Kristen Lynn Fix, 49, of Washington Avenue, Batavia, is charged with DWI, resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration 2nd, moving from lane unsafely, and unlicensed driver.  Fix was stopped at 10:12 p.m. on March 2, on East Main Street, Batavia, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. She was held pending arraignment.

Matthew J. Callaghan, 33, of Blue Spruce Drive, Rochester, is charged with DWI, aggravated DWI, and side windows not transparent. Callaghan was stopped at 12:24 a.m. on March 2 on Clay Street, Le Roy, by Deputy Carlos Ortiz Speed. He was released on an appearance ticket.

GC Health Department seeks help to find dog and owner

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee County Health Department is seeking information about the location of a dog and its owner(s) following a dog bite incident on Friday, Feb. 2, at 8:30 a.m. 

The incident occurred in a yard on Swamp Road near Jericho Road in Bergen. This dog has also been observed in that general area multiple times.

The dog was described as a black, lab/lab mix with a collar. The victim described the dog as well-groomed.

The health department is trying to avoid unnecessary medical treatment for the victim, so it is important to locate the dog to determine whether or not it is current on its rabies vaccination. If the vaccination status of the dog cannot be identified, post-exposure rabies shots will be recommended to the victim.

If you have information about the location of the dog and its owner(s), please contact the Genesee County Health Department at 585-344-2580 ext. 5555.

14 local students named to University at Buffalo's fall 2023 dean's list

By Press Release

Press Release:

The University at Buffalo has named 4,017 students to the fall 2023 dean's list.

  • Katarina Luker of Alexander
  • Jake Pope of Alexander
  • Annie Slenker of Alexander
  • Aaron Bacon of Basom
  • Ryan Dillon of Batavia
  • Lydia Evans of Batavia
  • Evan Preston of Batavia
  • Morgan Reimer of Batavia
  • Cameron Carlson of Bergen
  • Richard Denson of Bergen
  • Tyler Sanders of Corfu
  • Jaiden Lefort of Darien Center
  • Cole Heaney of Le Roy
  • John Panepento of Le Roy

UB is New York State's flagship and the largest and most comprehensive institution in the State University of New York system.

"Announcing our dean's list is always an exciting moment," Ann Bisantz, dean of undergraduate education, says. "These students have worked hard and dedicated themselves to their studies and have demonstrated academic excellence in their pursuit of an undergraduate degree at UB."

UB named 4,017 students named to its fall 2023 dean's list.

To qualify for the dean's list, full-time undergraduate students must demonstrate academic excellence by earning a grade point average of at least 3.600 while completing a minimum of 15 or more UB credit hours, of which 12 are graded (A-F) credits. Students are named to the dean's list at the end of the fall and spring semesters.

Law and Order: Batavia woman accused of falsely reporting sexual assault

By Howard B. Owens

Kaila S. Smith, 27, of Batavia, is charged with filing a false written statement and falsely reporting an incident. Smith is accused of falsely reporting a sexual assault on Jan. 5. She was arrested on Jan. 13 and issued an appearance ticket.

Michael A. Sweet, 37, of Batavia, is charged with grand larceny 4th. Sweet is accused of taking payment to complete renovations on a residence in Batavia and then never completing the work. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Maverick X. Cook, 18, and Patrick J. Peters, 18, both of Batavia, are charged with open burning. Cook and Peters are accused of starting several fires on sidewalks and parking lots in the area of Ellicott Street and Liberty Street, Batavia, in December. Both were issued appearance tickets.

Darrell Laverne McFadden, 53, of Clinton Street Road, Batavia, is charged with assault 2nd. McFadden is accused of causing serious physical injury during a fight at 12:30 p.m. on Jan. 19, at a location on Clinton Street Road. He was jailed pending arraignment.

Jessica B. Eschenlauer, 34, of Batavia, is charged with burglary 2nd, criminal contempt 2nd, and aggravated family offense. Eschenlauer is accused of being inside a residence in violation of an order of protection. She was arraigned and released.

Roger M. Hofmeier, 22, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon 3rd. In July 2022, Hofmeir was allegedly found in illegal possession of a firearm. He was arrested on Jan. 11, arraigned in City Court, and released under supervision.

Nikkia M. Blackshear, 26, of Batavia, is charged with trespassing. Blackshear is accused of refusing to leave 7-Eleven on Jan. 20. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Adrienne S. Bechtold, 28, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd. Bechtold was charged following a traffic stop on Jan. 18 on Ross Street, Batavia. She was allegedly found in possession of narcotics and a scale. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Vincent J. Disalvo, 48, of Webster, is charged with harassment 2nd and trespassing. Disalvo is accused of kicking another person during a fight in the 7-Eleven Parking lot. He then allegedly entered the store after being told he wasn't allowed in the store. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Anthony A. Bomasuto, 29, of Batavia, is charged with criminal obstruction of breathing. Bomasuto is accused of being involved in an incident on Jan. 15 on Ellicott Street, Batavia. He was arraigned and released.

Trace G. Brewer, 23, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant. Brewer was wanted on charges of petit larceny and conspiracy 6h.  She was allegedly involved in a theft with another person of merchandise from 7-Eleven. She was arraigned and released.

Lorrie Beth Fischer, 45, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with misapplication of property. Fischer is accused of possessing another person's property on Dec. 29 and, rather than returning it, selling it. She was arrested by Deputy Mason Schultz on Jan. 22. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Nicole K. Dell, 38, of Silver Springs, was arrested on a warrant on Jan. 25. Dell was initially arrested on May 23, 2022, and charged with DWI. The warrant was issued after she allegedly failed to appear in court. Dell was arraigned and released. 

Jacob J. Frayne, 26, of Darien, is charged with aggravated DWI and aggravated unlicensed operation. Frayne was charged following a traffic stop on Jan. 26 on Pearl Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Takari G. Lang-Smith, 22, of Batavia, is charged with DWI. Lang-Smith was stopped on Jan. 28 at an undisclosed location by Batavia PD. He was issued tickets and released.

Richard M. Fuhry, 42, of Brockport, is charged with DWI. On Jan. 20, Batavia patrol offices were dispatched to North Park and Ross Street for a report of a fight in the street. Fuhry was accused of being involved in the fight and then located driving on Seneca Avenue. He was issued several tickets.

Brian J. Hawkins, 44, of Olean, was arrested on Jan. 22 on two warrants issued by City Court. The first was a bench warrant related to an incident in 2019 where he allegedly provided alcohol to a person under the age of 21. The second warrant was an arrest warrant for Bail Jumping 3rd. Hawkins was arraigned and released.

Tanika N. Avant, 22, of Batavia, was arrested on Jan. 22 on a warrant issued by City Court. The warrant stemmed from an incident in April of 2023 where she was charged with two counts of harassment 2nd and one count of endangering the welfare of a child after a disturbance call on Bank Street. Avant was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. 

Johnny Burton Koonce, Jr., 33, of Federal Drive, Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 1st, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, and failure to stop at a stop sign.  Koonce was stopped at 1:53 a.m. Jan. 20 by Sgt. Mathew Clor.  The passenger in the vehicle was somebody Koonce was allegedly supposed to not contact by court order. He was held pending arraignment.

Shanaya Nichole Brooks, 22, of Route 438, Gowanda, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd. Brooks is accused of striking the side of a house on Jan. 19 on East Road, Batavia, causing damage. She is also accused of trying to force her way into the house, causing damage. She was held pending arraignment.

Samantha Rae Balduf, 31, of Grant Street, Depew, is charged with petit larceny.  Balduf is accused of switching the price tag on a piece of merchandise at a retail store on Veterans Memorial Drive (the name and location of the store was withheld by the Sheriff's Office) at 1:03 p.m. on Jan. 19. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Isaac Floyd, Jr., 59, of State Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and illegal signal. Floyd was stopped at 12:07 a.m. on Jan. 24 on West Main Street Road, Batavia, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Floyd was released on tickets.

Joel David Proudy, 37, of Rochester Street, Bergen, is charged with criminal contempt 1st. Proudy is accused of violating a full stay-away order of protection at 10:50 a.m. on Jan. 17 at a location on West Main Street, Batavia. He also had multiple outstanding warrants. He was held pending arraignment.

Joseph Peter Mancuso, 35, of Deerfield Drive, North Tonawanda, is charged with criminal contempt 1st. Mancuso is charged with violating a stay-away order of protection at 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 20 at a location on Roberts Road, Alabama. He was arraigned and released under supervision.

Steven James Dunham, 35, of Main Street, Corfu, is charged with failure to verify address within 90 days as a Level 3 sex offender. Dunham was arrested in January and held for arraignment.

Steven Kenneth Maskell, 31, of North Byron Road, Elba, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, moving from lane unsafely, and driving while using a portable electronic device. Maskell was stopped at 11:30 p.m. on Jan. 21 on Lockport Road, Oakfield, by Deputy Morgan Ewert. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Robert Paul Gerspach, 67, no specified address, Buffalo, is charged with driving while impaired by drugs, aggravated unlicensed operation, driver's view obstructed, failure to keep right, and moving from lane unsafely.  Gerspach was observed by an off-duty deputy driving in an alleged unsafe manner at 11:22 a.m. on Jan. 24.  He was stopped and arrested by Deputy Austin Heberlein. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Guillermo Guadalupe-Vasques, 44, of Crimson Drive, Canandaigua, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, aggravated unlicensed operation, and moving from lane unsafely. Guadalupe-Vasques was stopped at 8:44 p.m. on Jan. 24 on West Main Street Road, Batavia, by Stephen Smith. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Mckenzie Leigh Stogsdill, 32, of East Main Road, Le Roy, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, no headlights, and no tail lamps. Stogsdill was stopped at 1:44 a.m. on Jan. 27 on Park Road, Batavia, by Sgt. Mathew Clor. Stogsdill was released on appearance tickets.

Jessica R. Parker-Sharkey, 30, of South Butler Road, Savanah, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property 4th and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Parker-Sharkey was arrested in Virginia Beach, Va., and extricated back to Genesee County. She was arraigned in Town of Batavia Court and released. The charges stem from allegations in April 2023 that she was in possession of a stolen car and a controlled substance. Following her release, she was turned over to Rochester PD on warrants.

Michael Curtis Smith Jr., 31, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Smith is accused of stealing an electric scooter from Walmart at 5:30 p.m. on Jan. 24. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Joseph Michael Petix, 66, of Shorecliff Drive, Rochester, is charged with DWI, criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, stop sign violation, breath test refusal, and consumption of alcohol while driving. Petix was stopped at 9:53 p.m. on Jan. 28 on Clinton Street, Batavia, by Deputy Travis DeMuth.  He was allegedly found in possession of cocaine. His release status was not reported.

Byron-Bergen announces that UPK and kindergarten registration open for 2024-25

By Press Release

Press Release:

Registration is now available for kindergarten and prekindergarten students in the Byron-Bergen School District. The District plans to once again offer a half-day universal prekindergarten (UPK) program at the Byron- Bergen Elementary School. 

The UPK program is focused on socialization, learning through play, and self-exploration. Children learn through a hands-on learning environment that includes activities, learning centers, concrete materials, and manipulatives. Students learn through a nurturing environment that is enriching, challenging, and developmentally appropriate. 

Students must turn four years of age by December 1, 2024 to be eligible for the program. If you have a child eligible and are interested in having him/her attend our UPK program, please complete this Google form which is also available on the Student Registration page of the Byron-Bergen website. The form requires the student’s name, parents’ name, address, phone number, email address, and date of birth. This electronic Google form is due by Thursday, Feb. 22. Parents who have already contacted the Elementary School by phone will still need to complete the form. If you are having difficulty completing the form, please call the Elementary School office for support.

Please note that if the District receives more applications than the allowed capacity, a lottery will be held to select students. This year's lottery drawing will be held on Friday, March 1, via Zoom. Student-specific lottery numbers and the Zoom link will be shared with everyone who completes the form before the February 22 deadline. Once the lottery is complete, if your child was selected, you need to complete the full registration packet, which can be found on the Byron-Bergen website, and submit it to the Elementary School Office. 

Children who will be five years of age, on or before December 1, 2024, are eligible for entrance to Kindergarten in September of 2024. New families in the school district should notify the school if they have a child who will enter Kindergarten in September of 2024. Parents may contact the Byron-Bergen Elementary School Office by calling 494-1220, ext. 1301. 

Information may also be sent to the Byron-Bergen Elementary School, 6971 West Bergen Road, Bergen, New York 14416. Please send all information for kindergarten screening by June 1, 2024.  All children registered for kindergarten will be scheduled for a screening appointment this summer. The results of this screening will be used to plan for the 2024-2025 kindergarten program. 

The following items are necessary to complete the registration process: the child’s birth certificate; certificate of immunization; proof of residency; and completed registration packet. Additional information and registration packets are available at http://www.bbschools.org/StudentRegistration.aspx.

Bergen's Chambry named to fall 2023 dean's list at Mount Union

By Press Release

Press Release:

The University of Mount Union has announced that Zoey Chambry, of Bergen, has been named to the Dean's List for the fall 2023 semester.

Chambry was one of 700 students named to the Dean's List. To be eligible for the Dean's List, students must have completed at least 12 credit hours of traditionally graded coursework while achieving a grade point average of 3.550 or better with no letter grade below a B.

View all of Mount Union's academic offerings at mountunion.edu/academics.

Nazareth University announces students on the dean's list for fall 2023

By Press Release

Press Release:

Nazareth University proudly announces the students named to the Dean's List for fall 2023.

A student's grade point average must be at least 3.5 or above, and they must complete 12 credit hours of graded work that semester to be included on the dean's list at Nazareth.

  • Hannah Wies of Bergen
  • Matthew Smith of Batavia
  • Maveric McKenzie of Pavilion
  • Chad Ohlson of Oakfield
  • Katherine Spiotta of Batavia

Alexander Dean named to Commonwealth University's fall 2023 dean's list

By Press Release

Press Release:

Alexander Dean, of Bergen, has been named to the Commonwealth University Dean's List for the Fall 2023 semester. 

Dean is a student at the Mansfield campus.

The list, prepared at the end of each semester, recognizes those students who have achieved academic distinction. To qualify for the Dean's List, the student must have earned a GPA of at least 3.50, on a 4.0 scale, in 12 or more semester hours of letter grades.

The Firing Pin to host safety class Jan. 28 at Kodak Center

By Press Release

Press Release:

Industry-leading self-defense center ‘The Firing Pin’ to host a first-of-its-kind safety class at The Kodak Center; Hundreds of students to learn newly required NY Handgun Safety information.  

The Firing Pin, a retail firearms store, indoor shooting range, and defensive training center located in Bergen, has booked The Kodak Center in Rochester and is hosting a low-cost handgun safety class on Jan. 28. Topics will include basic safety information, NY state gun laws, situational awareness training, as well as interacting with law enforcement, as set forth under the new required curriculum.

With NY State’s focus on reducing violence involving firearms through legislative action, TFP’s mission has been educating the public on firearms safety and security. Thousands of students over the past decade have learned how to safely handle a firearm at The Firing Pin, utilizing the classroom and 25-yard indoor range to hone their skills and become better gun owners.

NY State now requires 18 hours of training before an applicant can be granted their NY Pistol Permit, a new change as of September 2022. This large-scale class will fulfill 8 hours of that training, and students interested in getting their permit can take the remaining 10 hours at a later date.

firing-pin-johnh-1.jpg
Submitted photo of
John Huther, lead instructor.

The class on Jan. 28 at The Kodak Center, 200 W Ridge Rd, Rochester, hopes to reach as many people in the region as possible, the Center seats 1,900 total. The class runs from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., doors open at 8 a.m. Tickets are $15 and include a box lunch.

“We are extremely excited to bring our training to this many students, but we’re even more excited to be able to do so in such an amazing venue as The Kodak Center, we’re very thankful they were willing to work with us, as uncontroversial as a safety class should be, it took us a while to find a venue willing to work with us on this - it was very important to our mission that this class happen in the City - again, thanks to the great folks at The Kodak Center”, Brandon P. Lewis, Owner/Founder, The Firing Pin.

Molly Simms earns president's list honors at SUNY Canton

By Press Release

Press Release:

SUNY Canton President Zvi Szafran recognizes Molly Simms a SUNY Canton Criminal Investigation major from Bergen, for earning a spot on the President's List during the fall 2023 semester.

"Congratulations to the outstanding students who have earned a well-deserved place on the President's List," Szafran said. "Your remarkable achievement is a reflection of your unwavering dedication, persistent effort, and exceptional academic prowess. I am immensely proud to witness your success and observe your excellence in this highly competitive academic environment. May this accomplishment propel you towards even greater achievements in your future endeavors."

President's List recognizes full-time students who achieve a 3.75 or greater GPA during a single semester.

Colby Leggo has been named a Presidential Scholar at Clarkson University

By Press Release

Press Release:

Colby Leggo of Bergen, a senior majoring in electrical engineering, was named a Presidential Scholar for the Fall 2023 semester at Clarkson University.

Presidential Scholars must achieve a minimum 3.80 grade-point average and carry at least 14 credit hours.

Law and Order: Driver accused of nearly striking deputy's vehicle at more than 100 mph

By Howard B. Owens

Alan James Warren, 31, of Fillmore, is charged with reckless endangerment 1st, aggravated unlicensed operation, felony DWI, felony driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd. Warren is accused of nearly striking a deputy's vehicle while driving in excess of 100 mph at 1:11 a.m. on Dec. 30 on I-490 in Le Roy. Warren was stopped by Deputy Zachary Hoy. He was held pending arraignment.

Rhonda J. Schirmer, 57, of Walnut Street, Batavia, Alyssa M. Rondon, 33, of East Main Street, Clifton Springs, and David R. Fallon, 41, of East Main Street, Clifton Springs, are charged with petit larceny, conspiracy 6th, and endangering the welfare of a child. Schirmer and Rondon are also charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Schirmer, Rondon, and Fallon are accused of stealing merchandise from Walmart in the presence of a child. Schimer and Rondon were also allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance. All three suspects were processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on appearance tickets.

Timothy Delshawn Cobb, no age provided, of Butler Avenue, Buffalo, is charged with reckless endangerment 1st, unlawful fleeing from a police officer in a motor vehicle 3rd, reckless driving, aggravated unlicensed operation 2nd, and suspended registration. Cobb is accused of leading sheriff's deputies and Batavia police officers on a high-speed chase on the Thruway at 4:31 p.m. on Jan. 3. He was stopped by a successful deployment of spike strips by Corfu police. Cobb was held pending arraignment.

Maranda Lena Button, undisclosed age, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd. Button was stopped at 10:38 p.m. on Dec. 31 on Park Road, Batavia, by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun for an alleged inoperable headlamp. She was allegedly found in possession of cocaine and driving on a suspended license.

Ronda Marie Kern, 42, of Alleghany Road, Basom, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, leaving the scene of a property damage accident, speed not reasonable, and moving from lane unsafely. Kern was reportedly involved in a crash on South Lake Road, Pembroke, at 7:15 p.m. on Dec. 29 and found hiding in the woods near the crash scene. She was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

John David Bissell, 60, of North Academy Street, Wyoming, is charged with driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, ATV violation of driving while intoxicated, moving from lane unsafely, and an ATV violation of uninsured operation.  Bissell was reportedly involved in an ATV accident at 1:05 a.m. on Dec. 31 on Telephone Road, Pavilion. Biseell was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released on tickets.

Garrett A. Breister, 51, of Capen Road, Brockport, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, driving while ability impaired by drugs and alcohol, moving from lane unsafely, and speed not reasonable. Breister was reported involved in a motor vehicle accident at 10:39 p.m. on Oct. 31 on North Lake Road, Bergen. Breister was arrested on Dec. 29 following an investigation by Deputy Jonathan Dimming. He was issued tickets and released.

Angel Manuel Canales, 34, of Long Pond Road, Greece, is charged with assault 3rd and harassment 2nd. Canales allegedly punched another patron in the head, knocking him out, while at Batavia Downs, on Dec. 17 at 12:20 a.m.  No release status listed.

Ebony Lauren Jenkins, 24, of Child Street, Rochester, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd.  Jenkins is accused of violating a court order at 8:19 p.m. on Dec. 27 at a location in Bergen. Jenkins was held pending arraignment.

Skarlette P. Tellier-Wilcox, 19, of Wood Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Tellier is accused of stealing merchandise from Walmart at 4:43 p.m. on Dec. 29. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Theodle Hill, Jr., 54, of Church Street, Batavia, is charged with disobeying a court mandate. Hill is accused of violating an order of protection by speaking to the protected person while at a local store at 5:28 p.m. on Dec. 27. Hill was held pending arraignment.

Zackary Charles Putney, 27, of Route 98, of Alexander, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, stopping on a highway, failure to use four way flashers. Putney was charged after deputies Jacob Kipler and Austin Heberlein located a vehicle parked on Route 33 in the Town of Pembroke at 1:29 p.m. on Jan. 1. He was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Jonathan Will Dodson, Jr., of Chugg Road, Clarendon, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd. Dodson is accused of cutting the wires of an electrical harness of another person's vehicle at 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 29 at a location on Byron Road, Byron. He was arraigned and ordered held on $5,000 bail or $10,000 bond. 

Mary Jenieve Almanzar, 32, of Ada Place, Buffalo, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, aggravated unlicensed operation, uninspected motor vehicle, and inoperable brake lamp. Almanzar was stopped at 12:01 p.m. on Route 77 in Alabama, on Jan. 6 by Deputy James Stack. During the traffic stop, she was allegedly found in possession of buprenorphine-naloxone that was not prescribed to her. She was released on an appearance ticket.

Joseph Stewart, 69, of Route 19, Le Roy, is charged with harassment 2nd. Stewart is accused of striking another person across the face with a belt at a location on East Main Street, Batavia, at 8:55 a.m. on Jan. 3. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Ricky J. Smith, 33, of Lockport, is charged with two counts of sexual abuse 1st and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. Smith was arrested by State Police in relation to an incident reported at noon on Oct. 26 in the Town of Darien. He was released on an appearance ticket. Troopers did not release more information.

Michael J. McCarthy, 35, of Corfu, is charged with menacing 3rd and acting in a manner injurious to a child. He was arrested by State Police in relation to an incident reported at 12:43 p.m. on Jan. 4 in the Town of Pembroke. McCarthy's bail status was not available. Troopers did not release more information.

Harold Jemison-Pointer, 30, of Buffalo, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. Jemison-Pointer was stopped at 10:20 a.m. ON Jan. 1 in the Town of Le Roy by State Police. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Law and Order: Three Michigan residents arrested in alleged credit card scam at Speedway

By Howard B. Owens

Germayne D. Fifer, 19, of Inkster, Mich., Elijah A Davis, 22, of Inkster, Mich., and Tyrese I. Heard, 19, of  Ypsilanti, Mich., are charged with grand larceny 3rd and conspiracy 5th. The trio is accused of engaging in a credit card scam at Speedway in Batavia on Nov. 9 when they allegedly stole $5,000 in gift cards. Batavia patrol officers located the suspects' vehicle on Oak Street. The three suspects were arraigned in City Court and released.

Ameriquay J. Scott-Whitaker, 18, of Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property 3rd, reckless endangerment 1st, endangering the welfare of a child, possession of burglar's tools, and unlawful fleeing police in a motor vehicle 3rd. On Nov. 3, Batavia patrol officers attempted a traffic stop on Clinton Street of a vehicle that had been reported stolen in Rochester. The vehicle did not stop, which initiated a pursuit. State Police deployed spike strips to stop the vehicle on Route 33 near Route 19 in Bergen. Scott-Whitaker, along with four juveniles, were taken into custody. Scott-Whitaker was arraigned and is due in City Court and released.

Jamie S. Kraft, 38, of Bath, was arrested on Nov. 8 on a warrant. Kraft was initially arrested on Sept. 13 and charged with aggravated harassment 2nd, obstructing governmental administration 2nd and falsely reporting an incident 3rd. Kraft allegedly made numerous 911 calls in which he falsely reported that people had been struck by lightning. He then allegedly threatened to stab police. Kraft was arraigned and released on his own recognizance. 

Jimmy Ramirez, 41, of Rochester, is charged with felony DWI. Batavia patrol officers responded to a report on Nov. 4 of a possibly intoxicated driver on Lewiston Road and stopped a vehicle allegedly driven by Ramirez as a result. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Edwin L. Bethel, 57, of Rochester, is charged with assault 3rd, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, criminal mischief 4th, of petit larceny. Bethel is accused of causing injury to another person, damaging property, and stealing car keys during a disturbance on South Main Street in Batavia on Nov. 11 while in the presence of two children. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Kate J. Long, 39, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. It is alleged that Long sent numerous "unwanted" emails to Batavia City School District board members for "no legitimate" purpose. Long was issued an appearance ticket.

Stephanie L. Coley, 41, of Lockport, was arrested on Nov. 16 on a warrant. Coley was initially charged on Sept. 24, 2021, with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. A warrant was issued after she allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arraigned and released under supervision.

Michael J. Torres, 40, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 15 on a warrant. Torres was initially charged on April 12 with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd (Intent to Sell) and obstructing governmental administration 2nd after allegedly fleeing a traffic stop on a bicycle. He was arraigned and released.  Torres is also charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled 7th. Torres was arrested following a traffic stop at 6:17 p.m. on Nov. 15 by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun. He was allegedly found in possession of cocaine and buprenorphine. He was held at the Genesee County Jail pending arraignment.

George J. Budzinack, 43, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 16 on a warrant. Budzinack was initially arrested on Sept. 27 after an investigation into the larceny of a bicycle, on East Main Street in Batavia. The warrant was issued after he allegedly failed to appear in court. Budzinack was arraigned and released.

Christine M. Caplis, 43, of Elba, is charged with criminal tampering 3rd. Caplis is accused of tampering with security cameras in an apartment building on Liberty Street on Nov. 13. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Thomas A. Griffin, 36, of Batavia, is charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs. Griffen is accused of driving while impaired on Oct. 10 and was arrested on Nov. 14. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Timothy M. Pendleton, 38, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, obstructing governmental administration 2nd, and several traffic violations. Pendleton was stopped on Nov. 2 on East Avenue by a Batavia patrol officer. He was allegedly found in possession of narcotics and then fought with police while officers attempted to take him into custody. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Dorian D. Batchelor, 56, of Williamsville, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Batchelor is accused of violating an order of protection by entering the protected party's residents on Nov. 15. He was arraigned and released.

Benjamin G. Evans, 35, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 9 on warrants issued by City Court. Two of the warrants were related to separate petit larceny charges. The other resulted from charges of trespass and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. He was arraigned and released.

Jeanine D. Fuller, 37, no residence provided, was arrested on Nov. 9 on a warrant. The warrant was issued as a result of Fuller allegedly being found inside of the vacant Days Inn Motel on Oak Street on Aug. 23. She was arraigned and released.

Marcus A. King, 22, of Rochester, is charged with harassment 2nd.  King is accused of striking another person in the face at a location on Pearl street on Nov. 6. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Gregory M. Wansha, 23, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Wansha is accused of slashing the tire of another person's car on Nov. 11 at an undisclosed location. Wansha was issued an appearance ticket.

Adam J. Kaczanowski, 22,  of Eden, was arrested on Nov. 17 on a warrant. Kaczanowski was originally charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd after being involved in a motor vehicle accident on Sept. 26. He was issued an appearance ticket but allegedly failed to appear in court. Kaczanowski was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance. 

Terrance L. Falk, 25, of Batavia, was arrested on Nov. 6 on a warrant issued by City Court. The original charges stem from an incident on Washington Avenue where Falk allegedly threatened another person with a knife. He was arraigned and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. 

Krystal L Frye, 33, of Jamestown, was arrested on a warrant on Nov. 20. Frye was initially arrested on April 2, 2019, and charged with grand larceny 4th after an investigation into an incident where she allegedly stole a debit card. A warrant was issued after Frye allegedly failed to appear for a court appearance. She was arraigned and released on her own recognizance. 

Kenneth B. Jordan, 31, of Albion, was arrested on Nov. 13 on a warrant. Jordan was originally charged on Jan. 16 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd, after a traffic stop on River Street. Jordan was issued an appearance ticket but allegedly failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in City Court and released. 

David Henry Kendall, 39, of North Street, Le Roy, is charged with promoting prison contrand and criminal possession 1st of a controlled substance 7th. Kendal is accused of knowingly obtaining and possessing a narcotic drug on Nov. 18 inside the Genesee County Jail.  Kendall was arraigned and remanded back to the custody of the jail. 

Anthony Leo Vanelli, Sr., 46, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal sale of a narcotic drug and promoting prison contraband. Vanelli is accused of knowingly and unlawfully introducing a narcotic into the Genesee County Jail on Nov. 18 and giving the drug to another inmate. Vanelli was arraigned and is being held without bail.

Dustin Albert Huffer, 40, of Silver Springs, is charged with felony DWI, speeding, aggravated unlicensed operation, unlicensed driver, and reckless driving. Huffer was stopped at 2:48 a.m. on Nov. 19 on Route 5 in Pembroke by Deputy Stephen Smith. Huffer was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Maranda Lena Button, 30, no street address provided, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and insufficient signal. Button was allegedly found in possession of drug paraphernalia during a traffic stop at 12:21 a.m. on Oct. 28 by Deputy Jeremiah Gechell. Button was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Anthony Ross Morrow, 40, of Niagara Street, Lockport, is charged with petit larceny. Morrow is accused of stealing a crossbow from Dick's Sporting Goods at 8:02 p.m. on Nov. 24.  Morrow was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Samuel Robert Baudanza, 26, of Buffalo Street, Bergen, is charged with assault 3rd and criminal mischief. Baudanza was arrested following a report of a disturbance at Ralph and Rosies on Lake Avenue in Bergen at 10:04 p.m. on Nov. 25. Baudanza is accused of fighting with two people and damaging merchandise. Baudanza was held for arraignment.

Nicole M. Trapp, 21, of Buffalo, is charged with harassment 1st. Trapp was arrested by State Police on Nov. 28 in connection with an incident reported in the Town of Alabama at 10:54 a.m. on July 2. She was released on an appearance ticket. No further information was released.

Virginia A. Marks, 44, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Marks was arrested by State Police in connection with an incident reported at 11:12 a.m. on Nov. 27 in the Town of Batavia. She was released on an appearance ticket. No further information was released.

Charles A. Kohorst, 54, of Corfu, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Kohorst was arrested by State Police in connection with an incident reported at 12:56 p.m. on Nov. 27 in the Town of Pembroke. He was held in custody. No further information was released.

Heidi S. Kollarik, 51, of Oakfield, is charged with DWI. Kollarik was stopped by a Batavia patrol officer on Nov. 9 at an undisclosed time on East Main street, Batavia. She was issued traffic tickets and released.

Vehicle on its side on off ramp in Bergen

By Howard B. Owens

A white sedan is reportedly on its side on the 33a off ramp from I-490 in Bergen.

An occupant is seen walking away from the accident with his dog.

Bergen Fire and Mercy EMS dispatched.

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