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Darien

Fifteen arrests, 48 citations at sold out Jason Aldean concert

By Howard B. Owens

NOTE: This was the first sold out concert after the new no-pedestrian access rule to the Darien Lake property came into full force. I did a ride along with the Sheriff's Office for the night and will have a report, with photos, later.

The following people were arrested by the Sheriff's Office in connection with the Jason Aldean Concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center.

Matthew K. Skelton, 26, of Coe Avenue, Oakfield, is charged with disorderly conduct after allegedly yelling profanities and causing a disturbance in the parking lot. Skelton was arraigned in Darien Town Court and remanded to jail in lieu of $200 bail.

Rebecca A. Pickem, 25, of Olive Drive, Baldwinsville, is charged with trespass after allegedly refusing to leave the Darien Lake Employee Road area after attempting to exit the venue as a pedestrian. Pickem was arraigned in Darien Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Tyler A. Vincent, 24, of Olive Drive, Baldwinsville, is charged with trespass after allegedly refusing to leave the Darien Lake Employee Road, area after attempting to exit the venue as a pedestrian. Vincent was arraigned in Darien Town Court and releaed on his own recognizance.

Nicole L. Louiseize, 23, of Summerhill Drive, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, is charged with trespass after allegedly entering the concert venue after being denied entry and told not to reenter. Louiseize was arraigned in Darien Town Court and remanded to jail in lieu of $400 bail.

David W. Pitts, 30, of Buford Deli Townline Road, Scotland, Ontario, Canada, is charged with DWI and aggravated DWI with a BAC of .18 percent or more after allegedly operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated in the campgrounds.

Brian A. Rupe, 29, of Ransom Road, Lancaster, is charged with trespass after allegedly jumping the fence to enter the Darien Lake property.

Nicholas J. Pagano, 19, of Savage Road, Holland, is charged with trespass after allegedly jumping a fence into the concert venue.

Mark A. Silvestri, 26, of South Seine Drive, Cheektowaga, is charged with trespass after allegedly jumping a fence into the concert venue.

Michael J. Riley, 47, of Beckett Drive, Brantford, Ontario, Canada, is charged with criminal mischief, 4th, after allegedly punching a car causing damage.

Adam R. Wattles, 19, of Old Lower East Hill, Colden, is charged with false personation after allegedly providing a false age. (Wattles was cited at the Toby Keith concert for alleged underage drinking.)

Colin J. Haines, 17, of Americo Court, Lancaster, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to enter the concert venue with a ticket to a show in West Virginia. When he was denied entry, Colin allegedly ran through the gate and entered the venue.

Kelly L. Alcorn, 47, of Tower Hall Terrace, Grand Island, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly hitting another patron in the concert venue.

Karen M. Walker, 35, of Niagara Falls, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly striking another patron in the concert venue.

Stephanie A. Fenner, 36, of Lafayette Road, Cortland, is charged with disorderly conduct after allegedly punching and grabbing a Darien Lake security officer.

Daren J. Conklin, 20, of Lafayette Road, Cortland, is charged with harassment, 2nd, and resisting arrest after allegedly being involved in a fight and pushing a deputy while being detained. Conklin then allegedly physically resisted and kicked deputies during the course of the arrest.

The NYS DMV had an enforcement detail at the venue and the following individuals were accused of using a fictitious/fraudulent driver's license.

James A. Carbamone, 20, of Delta Drive, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Rebecca E. Blondin, 20, of South Taylor Road, Charles, Fla.
Kyle R. Henecke, 21, of Loonis Road, Farmington
Morgan J. Engesser, 19, of Higby Road, New Harford

The following indivdiuals received citations for alleged possession or consumption of alcohol while under age 21.

Colin J. Haines, 17, of Americo Court, Lancaster
Adam R. Wattles, 19, of Old Lower East Hill, Colden
Guymichael A. Gornicki, 20, of Lockport Road, Niagara Falls
Anthony R. Dicosmo, 20, of Lockport Road, Sanborn
Megan P. Barney, 20, of Gerald Hunter Road, Madrid
Meghan R. McGee, 20, of Lagrass Street, Waddington
Katie C. Mach, 18, of Banko Drive, Depew
Maxwell I. Crabtree, 19, of South Seine Drive, Cheektowaga
Matthew R. Walsh, 19, of Gabriel Drive, Cheektowaga
Aleigh J. Andrews, 18, of Homestead Drive, Niagara on the Lake, Ontario, Canada
Richard W. Ingoldsby, 20, of Rice Road, Boston
Nicole M. Vinci, 19, of Hogan Road, Webster
Eryn E. McBride, 18, of Houston Road, Webster
Alexandra N. Liberty, 18, of Chigwell Lane, Webster
Alyssa C. Proietti, 20, of Cottage Brook Lane, Webster
Tyler M. Smedley, 19, of Morning Glory Drive, Webster
Kaitlin M. Cunningham, 19, of Cottage Street, Fredonia
Heather N. Tomsick, 20, of Gardner Street, Fredonia
Thomas F. R. McRae, 20, of Parkside Road, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Jacob D. Cardwell, 20, of Woodinton Road, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
James A. Carbanone, 20, of Delta Drive, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Taylor R. O’Leary, 20, of Chesterbrook Lane, Pittsford
(name removed upon request), 20, of Mendon Center Road, Pittsford
Kaitlyn M. Piccarrento, 17, of Temple Road, Henrietta
Samantha N. Jones, 19, of Cameron Hill Road, Rochester
Kathryn E. Pietropalo, 18, of Southery Place, Rochester
Nicole S. Mercendetti, 19, of Elwood Drive, Rochester
Rose R. Emilie, 20, of West Center Street, Medina
Patricia A. Glass, 19, of Chase Street, Medina
Kalie L. Curtain, 18, of South Gravel Road, Medina
(name redacted upon request), 18, of Owls Nest Road, Marion
Melissa A. Cook, 18, of Kemp Drive, Macedon
McKenzie T. Bigley, 20, of North Main Street, Marion
Jordan L. Phillips, 18, of Sunset Drive, Marion
Julia M. Smallman, 20, of Effingham Street, Street, Catherines, Ontario, Canada
Cassandra R. Robinson, 20, of Sunset Drive, Fenwick, Ontario, Canada
Britta M. Adamczyk, 18, of Route 39, Springville
Jochua I. Burau, 19, of Newman Street, Springville
Taylor M. Sikes, 17, of Oak Street, Geneseo
Delilah M. Cipriano, 16, of Upper Mt. Morris Road, Leicester
Bianca R. Weber, 19, of Markie Drive, West Rochester
Veronica L. Maznikovski, 19, of Abbottsford Drive, Gates
Melissa A. Cook, 18, of Kemp Road, Macedon
Darren W. Godfrey, 20, of Witmer Road, North Tonawanda
Ashley M. Drouin, 20, of Peek Road, Hilton
Amanda M. Marlow, 17, of State Street, Caledonia
Corey R. Sherman, 19, of Fraser Drive, Hilton
Austin G. Kelly, 16, of Sunderland Trail, Rochester

Injured female in Darien requires Mercy Flight aid

By Billie Owens

Mercy Flight is called to the Darien Fire Hall to aid a female. Medics are on scene. Mercy Flight out of Batavia will respond; no ETA given.

UPDATE 9:07 p.m.: The only further information I have is that this is a motorcycle vs. pedestrian accident and the pedestrian was injured. It happened near tonight's sold-out country concert at Darien Lake.

UPDATE 2:40 a.m. (By Howard): Jessica Freeman, 23, of Rochester, was a passenger in a vehicle, according to a State Police release, in the northbound lane of Route 77. The vehicle was stopped in heavy traffic when Freeman got out of the vehicle and attempted to cross Route 77. Troopers say she "ran directly into the path of a motorcylcle operated by Frank Pfalzer, 35, of Akron." Freeman was flown to ECMC. She suffered head and facial injuries. Pfalzer was not injured and not charged.

Law and Order: Man arrested after short foot chase with police

By Howard B. Owens

Brett R. Doward, 26, 411 W. Hickory St., East Rochester, is charged with obstructing governmental administration, 2nd, criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th, and possession of a controlled substance not in it original container. Following a report at 12:06 a.m., Sunday, of a disturbance on Hall Street, Batavia, Batavia PD received the description of a person allegedly involved and the vehicle he allegedly used to leave the scene. Officer Jason Ivison spotted a vehicle matching the description on Ellicott Street. The vehicle fled and pulled into a driveway on Liberty Street. Doward allegedly jumped from the vehicle and ran. After a short foot pursuit, Doward was taken into custody. Doward was released on an appearance ticket. BPD was assisted by the Sheriff's Office and State Police.

A 17-year-old resident of North Main Street, Perry, is charged with petit larceny. The youth is accused of shoplifting from Kmart.

Jeremy Dean Lyons, 27, of Judge Road, Oakfield, is charged with criminal mischief, 3rd, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, 3rd, aggravated unlicensed operation, 3rd and unlicensed operation. During a domestic dispute with his girlfriend, Lyons alleged damaged property and then allegedly took a vehicle without permission and drove the vehicle on a suspended license.

Jeremy Dean Lyons, 27, of Judge Road, Oakfield, is charged with criminal contempt, 2nd. While housed in the Genesee County Jail, Lyons allegedly violated an order of protection by contacting the protected party.

Terri Marisa Doctor, 33, of Council House Road, Basom, is charged with DWI. Doctor was taken into custody on a Town of Pembroke warrant issued in November 2012 for allegedly failing to pay a fine on a DWI convictions. Doctor was jailed on $1,500 bail.

Spencer Todd Grimes, 18, of Goodrich Street, Albion, is charged with trespass. Grimes is reportedly a former employee of Darien Lake who was accused of stealing and barred from the property. Grimes was allegedly on the property Saturday morning.

Nicholas Lamont Santos, 19, of Gillette Road, Albion, is charged with trespass. Santos is reportedly a former employee of Darien Lake who was accused of stealing and barred from the property. Santos was allegedly on the property Saturday morning.

Randy Lee Ridd, 55, of Swamp Road, Byron, is charged with grand larceny, 4th, and trespass. Ridd is accused of trespassing on the property of a business in Bergen and stealing metal plates. Also charged was Corretta Melissa Pitts, 44, of Swamp Road, Byron.

Brandon Monteleon, 20, of 57 Church St., Le Roy, is charged with criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation and harassment. Monteleone was arrested following an alleged disturbance on Church Street between the defendant and another individual.

Daniel S. Platt, 31, of 53 Lake St., Le Roy, is charged with criminal obstruction of breaking or blood circulation and one count of unlawful dealing with a child and harassment, 2nd. Platt is accused of placing his hands around the neck of a victim, causing difficulty breathing. He's also accused of serving alcohol to a person under age 21.

Andrea M. Gray, 34, of 14 Lake St., Apt. #2, Le Roy, is charged with harassment, 2nd, and reckless endangerment, 2nd. Gray reportedly had an argument with an acquaintance on Lake Street. Gray allegedly pushed the victim, causing the victim to fall backward. The victim's head struck a driveway. Gray is also accused of sitting on the victim and pulling the victim's hair. Gray was jailed on $1,000 bail.

Four arrested at Def Leppard/Poison concert at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

The following arrests were made by the Sheriff's Office in connection with Def Leppard/Poison concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center:

Sarah B. Blevins, 22, of E. Bayard Street Extension, Seneca Falls, is charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest after allegedly causing a disturbance at the Sumner Road employee entrance to Darien Lake and then refusing to be taken into custody. Blevins was arraigned in Darien Town Court and remanded to jail in lieu of $500 bail.

Blanca Compton, 49, and Brian L. Compton, 46, both of Route 414, Lodi, are charged with obstruction of governmental administration, 2nd, and disorderly conduct after allegedly interfering with deputies making another arrest and engaging in violent tumultuous behavior. Both suspects were arraigned in Darien Town Court and both were remanded to jail in lieu of $500 bail each.

Lorraine A. Goodell, 38, of Railroad Avenue, Waterloo, is charged with trespass after allegedly refusing to leave the concert venue. Goodell was arraigned in Darien Town Court and remanded to jail in lieu of $250 bail.

Benjamin Rosputin, 31, of Kaymar Drive, Amherst, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly shoving a CSC security guard inside the venue.

Darien Lake gets tax break to help refinance existing loans

By Howard B. Owens

The Genesee County Economic Development Center is helping the owners of Darien Lake Theme Park refinance $57.5 million in loans by authorizing a mortgage tax exemption of $719,062.

According to a GCEDC release, the bank refinancing the loans is -- for an unexplained reason -- requiring a new mortgage on the property, which is triggering a mortgage tax.

The theme park is owned by Georgia-based Herschend Family Entertainment, which has invested approximately $15 million in upgrades to the facility.

There are 400 full-time equivalent jobs at Darien Lake with an annual payroll of $11 million and the park generates $2.5 million in revenue for local governments and school districts through property and sales taxes.

Sheriff's Office looking for stolen white 2004 Acura sedan with dark tinted windows, sunroof

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee County Sheriff's Office is investigating the Aug. 11 theft of a vehicle from a parking lot at Darien Lake Theme Park.

The white 2004 four-door Acura sedan was taken from the VIP parking lot during a concert. The vehicle has a sunroof, low profile, custom black rims, and dark tinted windows.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Genesee County Sheriff's Office at (585) 343-5000.

Law and Order: Man accused of felony assault in Oakfield

By Howard B. Owens

Robert P. Leiser Jr., of Lockport Road, Oakfield, is charged with assault, 2nd, and criminal contempt, 1st. Leiser was allegedly involved in a domestic incident July 24 at his residence. Leiser allegedly struck a female in the head with a flashlight. The woman required medical treatment. Leiser was allegedly under court order not to have physical contact with the woman. He was located in the City of Batavia, arrested, and jailed on $15,000 bail.

James A. Klotzback, 35, of Rochester, is charged with assault, 2nd. Klotzback was arrested by State Police for an alleged incident reported at 9:18 a.m., Wednesday, in the Town of Byron. No further details were released.

Summer Ogden, 36, no permanent address, is charged with trespass. Ogden is accused of being on 400 Towers property after allegedly being previously told by police and management that she was barred from the property.

Morgan B. Mikolajczyk, 18, of 328 S. Jackson St., Batavia, is charged with harassment, 2nd. Mikolajczyk is accused of pushing a family member during an argument.

Jessica R. Johns, 29, of 122 Jackson St., Batavia, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Johns allegedly possess marijuana while a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped on Jackson Avenue for an alleged traffic violation.

Cory J. Endres, 18, of 400 B Island Cottage Road, Rochester, is charged with harassment, 2nd. Endres was arrested Thursday by State Police for an alleged incident reported June 9 in the Town of Darien. No further details released.

Daniel H. Bettilyon, 51, of Hamlin, is charged with felony DWI and felony driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. Bettilyon was stopped by State Police at 1:24 p.m., Friday, on Maltby Road, Oakfield.

Emily Ann Lane, 22, of Corfu, is charged with petit larceny. Lane allegedly stole $51.94 in merchandise from Kmart.

Richard Charles Hollfelder, 54, of Oakfield, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, failure to keep right and leaving the scene of a property damage accident.

Brad Paisley also played music: 92 arrests and citations at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

The following people were arrested by members of the Sheriff's Office in connection with the Brad Paisley Virtual Reality Concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Saturday.

The 10 arrests are down from the 14 at last year's show. After the 2011 concert, Paisley posted on Twitter: "Quite a performance in Darien Lakes Saturday. We also played music." (followed by a link to The Batavian's story on arrests at the show)

There were 56 underage drinking citations last year and 81 this year. The increase can be attributed, at least in part, to increased enforcement at the park in 2012.

All but one of the arrests last year might be attributed to drunken misbehavior. This year, only, maybe, five of the 10 arrests might fit that description.

Benjamin B. Cramer, 27 of Route 20, Varysburg, is charged with public lewdness and resisting arrest after allegedly urinating in the concert venue and then resisting arrest. Cramer was arraigned in Darien Town Court and remanded to jail in lieu of $500 bail.

Jessica L. Juda, 22, of Pleasant Valley Road, Delevan, is charged with trespass after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return. Juda was arraigned in Darien Town Court and remanded to jail in lieu of $100 bail.

Daniel R. Blonski, 22, of Salem Avenue, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, is charged with trespass after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return. Blonski was arraigned in Darien Town Court and remanded to jail in lieu of $100 bail.

Kelsey M. Shea, 19, of Towhee Court, East Amherst, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and possession of alcohol under age 21.

Tanner C. Boesch, 19 of Turkill Road, Fairport, is charged with inlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.

Kathryn A. Tuscano, 20, of Main Avenue, Norwalk, Conn., is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.

Erik Schneckenberger, 29, of Roycroft Drive, West Seneca, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly striking another concert patron.

Jedidiah B. Gabriel, 21 of William Street, Lancaster, is charged with trespass after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.

Jaclyn D. Marshfield, 18, of Pompey Center, Fabius, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.

Matthew M. Muldowney, 18, of Route 11, Tully, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.

The following people received citations for alleged possession or consumption of alcohol under age 21.

William T. Bickelman, 18, of Contessa Court, Williamsville
Kate L. Blair, 17, of Highmanor Drive, Henrietta
Stephanie M. Sorber, 17, of Chelsa Meadows, West Henrietta
Patrick M. Byrne II, 18, of Butler Drive, Pittsford
Jordan D. Messimer, 18, of Rush-Scottsville Road, Rush
Justin T. Larusch, 18, Tamarack Street, Buffalo
Dylan J. Caldiero, 20, of Tuscarora Road, Buffalo
Robert W. Anderson, 20, of Nottingham Terrace, Hamburg
Rebecca E. Milbrand, 20, of Renwood Avenue, Kenmore
Hannah J. Verboon, 18, of Jerseyville Road, Brant County, Ontario, Canada
Steven A. Tripp, 19, of Sawmill Road, Street, Catherines, Ontario, Canada
Emily N. Kosakowski, 18, of Morwick Drive, Ancaster, Ontario, Canada
Tara A. Derosa, 18, of Gateway Road, Fairport
Dominic J. Zambelli, 19, of Dickinson Crossing, Fairport
Felicia M. Lattanzio, 20, of Wynmoor Drive, Cicero
Britta M. Schug, 20, of Lawdon Street, North Syracuse
Lilian R. Smith, 19, of Hamilton Road, North Syracuse
Carl J. Larson, 20, of Glen Oak Drive, East Amherst
Julia A. Lauria, 18, of Ashwood Lane, Orchard Park
Calle J. Demeter, 20, of Hillside Drive, Orchard Park
Sarah R. Jacobs-Ferderbar, 20, of Timberlake Drive, Orchard Park
Emily S. McCreary, 20, of Melinda Lane, Phoenix, Ariz.
Tamara L. Medgrossi,17, of Morgan Drive, Lewiston
Keith R. Burns, 19, of Youngstown-Lockport Road, Ransomville
Meggan M. Imcorvia, 20, of Homestead Drive, North Tonawanda
Kayleigh R. Erickson, 19, of Harris Hill Road, Falconer
Michael J. Ovellette, 20, of Olympia Drive, Rochester
Taylor A. Schimenti, 17, of Almont Avenue, West Seneca
Reaghan T. Hayes, 20, of Doyle Road, Baldwinsville
Breanna M. Hyman, 20, of Hyman Road, Newark
Margaret C. Vankouwenberg, 20, of Bryant Avenue, Newark
Ryan J. Digati, 19, of Cardinal Lane, Grand Island
Michael R. T. Malaney, 17, of Settlers Road, Grand Island
Dakota C. Swain, 18, of Gordonville Road, Rushford
Taylor K. Bedford, 19, of Whitney Lane, Grand Island
Cassie K. Gilcart, 16, of Whitney Lane,  Grand Island
Julia L. Pratt, 19, of Dalton Road, Cato
Grace E. Rooney, 19, of Hilltop Road, Syracuse
Vincent R. S. Scienza, 19, of Straight Road, Forestville
Jennifer E. Hasting, 20, of Claudette Court, Depew
Mandy L. Odrobina, 20, of Madaline Lane, Depew
Jacob N. Resnick, 20, of Lakeshore Drive, Hilton
Jessica A. Woons, 20, of Tribbles Lane, Rochester
Jake W. Wark, 20, of Maplewood Avenue, Spencerport
Neil A. Dambra, 20, of Dortmund Circle, Rochester
Jennifer A. Lopez, 20, of Renaissance Drive, Rochester
Michael J. Brocklehurst, 19, of Linwood Avenue, North Tonawanda
Shane G. Sawicki, 20, of Clarice Drive, Hamburg
Amanda G. Rivera, 18, of Brown Street, Penn Yan
Nicholas R. Groff, 16, of Bullis Road, Elma
Morgan L. McMahon, 19, of Lisle Road, Owego
Darrcy E. Matthews, 20, of Green Street Extension, Dekalb Junction
Abigail M. Ohlmeyer, 20, of Mason Drive, Syracuse
Nathan J. Kloepfer, 19, of Leroy Street, Camillus
Erin M. Myers, 20, of Kent Place, Syracuse
Kala M. Wilkins, 18, of Simsbury Lane, Pittsford
Jennifer A. Riley, 18, of Mahoga Street, Pittsford
Conner C. Renaldo, 16, of Shirley Road, North Collins
Merit L. Jendrowski, 20, of Newton Avenue, Akron
Jenna T. Jendrowski, 17, of Newton Avenue, Akron
Anna L. Legrett, 20, of Lantern Lane, Honeoye Falls
Nicholas J. Fredette, 19, of County Route 24, Minetto
Rebecca A. Krass, 18, of West Myers Road, Oswego
Mary K. Finn, 19, of Swift Street, Oswego
Destini L. Carter, 17, of Bronson Street, Oswego
Morgan A. Allen, 19, of Kathleen Drive, Oswego
Haley N. Sierdsma, 17, of Dunkirk Drive, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Riley D. McCullough, 17, of Hill Garden Drive, Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada
Matthew R. Kennedy, 17, of Trinity Church Road, Binbrook, Ontario, Canada
Jamie J. Vandehei, 17, of Bell Road, Binbrook, Ontario, Canada
Luke J. Nault, 18, of Binbrook Road, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Cody G. G. Badour, 18, of Braemar Avenue, Caledonia, Ontario, Canada
Brian J. Sheppard, 19, of White Stone Lane, Lancaster
Neena M. Carter, 17, of Electric Avenue, Cheektowaga
Rachel J. Bolton, 17, of Croydon Drive, Depew
Isiah L. Montpetit, 18, of Freeman Road, Middleport
Dominique Dipietro, 17, of Misty Lane, East Amherst
Benjamin A. Rein, 16, of Via Pinto Drive, Williamsville
Patrick J. Quinn, 18, of Gaylord Court, Elma
Andrew J. Partridge, 19, of Black Creek Road, Hamburg
Nathan C. Bracci-Kurtz, 18, of Queens Way, Depew

No citations or arrest in concert venue for Big Time Rush show at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

There were no arrests in the concert venue Thursday night in connection with the Big Time Rush / Cody Simpson concert at the Darien Lake Performing Arts Center.

There were no citations for underage drinking, according to a Sheriff's Office release.

There was a DWI arrest in the parking lot.

Janet Mary Brady, 45, reportedly drove into the employee parking lot after being told not to enter the lot. Upon investigation, she was allegedly found to be operating in an intoxicated condition with her 5-year-old child in the car. The exact charges she faces were not listed in the Sheriff's Office press release. She was released on an appearance ticket.

If you're not familiar with Big Time Rush, below is a video.

Law and Order: Elba man accused of choking, pointing shotgun at victim

By Howard B. Owens

Todd Allan Betts, 35, of Transit Road, Elba, is charged with reckless endangerment, 1st, endangering the welfare of a child, menacing, 2nd, criminal obstruction of breathing and harassment, 2nd. Betts was charged following the report of a domestic incident. Betts allegedly grabbed a woman by the throat and threw her to the ground. He allegedly pointed a shotgun in the direction of the woman and a child. Betts was jailed on $2,500 bail.

Tametha A. Wentland, 40, of Harlow Road, Darien, is charged with harassment, 2nd. Wentland is accused of physically contacting a victim. The incident was reported at 11:59 p.m., Saturday. Wentland was arrested by State Police.

Levi Winnie, 26, of 590 Council House Road, Basom, is charged with criminal mischief, 4th. The alleged incident was reported at 4:15 a.m., Saturday. Winnie was arrested by State Police on the Tonawanda Indian Reservation. No further details were released.

Six local students named to Dean's List at Buffalo State

By Billie Owens

The following students were named to the Spring 2012 Dean's List at Buffalo State University.

  • Valerie Klug, a business administration major, from Corfu

 

  • David Dupre, a business studies major, from Corfu

 

  • Kimberly Schildwaster, a career and technical education major, Oakfield

 

  • Brittany Moose, a fashion and textile technology major, from Le Roy

 

  • Rachel Pettys, a hospitality administration major, from Darien Center

 

  • Stephanie Esten, a hospitality administration major, from Oakfield


To qualify, students must earn a GPA of 3.5 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 credit hours. Founded in 1871, Buffalo State is the largest comprehensive college in the SUNY system offering more than 165 undergraduate and 62 graduate programs in the arts, sciences, professions, and education.

GCC Spring 2012 President's List honorees

By Billie Owens

Genesee Community College proudly announces that the following students are among 540 students who were named to the President's List for the Spring 2012 semester. Students honored on the President's List have maintained full-time enrollment and earned a quality point index of 3.75 (roughly equivalent to an A) or better. (The college also maintains a Dean's List comprised of students who earn a quality point index of 3.50 to 3.74. Genesee's Dean's List will be released in the next several weeks.)

This year's Genesee Community College Spring 2012 President's List honorees, with their hometowns, are listed below:
 

Basom

Danielle Hirtzel
Jessica Pfalzer
Theresa Rainey
Elias Seward
Leah Snyder

Batavia

Russell Jackson

Bergen

Elizabeth Jarnot
Charles Lee
Lindsay Stumpf

Byron

Tiffany Harrington
Richard Lucas
Stacy Maskell
Arlene Olmstead
Adrienne Payne
Danielle Thom

Corfu

Angel Alexander
Stacy Brockway
Rachel Doktor
Tracy Kearney
Michael Kraus
Kyle Maurer
Kayla Meyer
Alyssa Reeb
Dawn Roberto
Dawn Smith
Trevor Spiotta
Dana Wolbert

Darien Center

Shannon Bates
Kylynn Bank
James Erb
Matthew Herod
Hannah Zimmermann

East Bethany

Autumn Atkinson
Julliane Ingalls
Alec Kirch
Bryce Kirch
Sarah Lawson
Janet Gohlke

East Pembroke

Anthony Nati

Elba

Michael Anauo
Nicole Beardsley
Richard Dorf
Chapin Guthrie
Chelsie Pangrazio
Samantha Walker

Le Roy

Kevin Callahan
Andi DeBellis
Eric Hayes
Stephanie Heisler
Jeanice Howard
Gregory Humphrey
Donald Kahm
Mark McAvoy
Cody Niccloy
Willard Prevost
Michele Rast
Bethany Roth
Heather Schroeder
Brenda Sheflin
Denise Simcick
Michael Sullivan
Conor Tomaszewski

Linwood

Deena Hernandez

Oakfield

Della Balduf
Jonathon Cassiano
Lindsay Chatt
Benjamin Cherry
Angela Larmon
Laura Ostrowski
Sara Read
Joseph Sullivan

Meghan Vandersteur

Pavilion

Samantha Barclay
Patricia Brown
Wendy Edwards
Kaleigh Kingsley
Jonathan White

South Byron

Halle Davalos

Stafford

Michelle Jackson

 

Genesee Community College offers over 60 academic programs and certificates, including the new Veterinary Technology (Vet Tech) and Polysomnography (Sleep Tech) programs. Genesee is accessible through seven campus locations throughout Western New York, as well as through online classes in the Distance Learning program. College housing is available at College Village, just a three minute walk from the Batavia Campus. With small class sizes yet state-of-the-art technology both inside and out of the classroom, Genesee Community College is known for being "high-tech" and "high-touch."

Darien Center student to study 'bioinformatics' at RIT

By Billie Owens

Christopher Snyder, son of Amy and Wayne Snyder, of Darien Center, has enrolled for fall 2012 admission at Rochester Institute of Technology. Christopher will study bioinformatics in RIT's College of Science and is a 2012 graduate of Alexander Central High School.

Christopher has been awarded: the Robert Hollwedel Technical Scholarship; the Thomas Ricci Jr. Scholarship; the Senior High Student Council Award; the Attica Area Garden Club Scholarship; the Student Council Class Spirit Award; the Joseph M. Collins Scholarship; the Mark Klossner Swimming Scholarship; the Debbie Belz Memorial Environmental Science Scholarship; the A. Warren Dayton Memorial Scholarship; and an RIT Presidential Scholarship.

Rochester Institute of Technology is internationally recognized for academic leadership in computing, engineering, imaging science, sustainability, and fine and applied arts, in addition to unparalleled support services for deaf and hard-of-hearing students.

Slipknot/Slayer show at Darien Lake draws 21 arrests or citations

By Howard B. Owens

The following people were arrested Wednesday by the Sheriff’s Department during the WEDG Slipknot/Slayer concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center.

David A. Staley, 49, of Shumway Street, Buffalo, is charged with disorderly conduct after allegedly engaging in a fight in the parking lot.

Steven J. Pavone, 27, of West Squire Drive, Rochester, is charged with disorderly conduct after allegedly engaging in a fight in the parking lot.

Richard W. Lee, 23, of North Park Drive, Rochester, is charged with trespass after allegedly climbing a light pole inside the concert venue.

Peter Z. Torok, 51, of Salmon Creek Road, Brockport, is charged with DWI and driving with more than .08 BAC after allegedly driving in the parking lot intoxicated.

The following people were charged with unlawful possession of marijuana:

Jacob C. Berg, 21, of West Morris Street, Bath
Leanne P. Maniscallo, 30, of Point Breeze Street, Angola
Timothy M. Schultz, 31, of Angola Place, Angola
Michael D. Pilger, 40, of Caleb Avenue, Syracuse
Douglas W. Teed II, 30, of Cronk Road, Montour Falls
Gregory M. Crites, 31, of Mitchell Place, Lackawana
Richard A. Bieger, 27, of Longnecker Street, Buffalo

The following people were issued citations for alleged consumtion/possession of alcohol under age 21.

David Z. Custard-Jarosz, 19, of Hopkins Street, South Buffalo (two citations)
Jacob M. Parisi, 19, of Westmar Drive, Rochester
Amanda M. Scheiber, 19, of River Road, Niagara Falls
Timothy M. Zambito, 19, of Ward Road, Sanborn
Chelsea E. Printup, 17, of Poodry Road, Alabama
Joseph M. Nappo, 20, of East Center Road, West Seneca
Ryan J. McMahon, 19, of Towers Blvd. Cheektowaga
John M. Tredd, 20, of Pine Ridge Road, Busti
Chanda L. Germain, 19, of Prospect Street, Portage, Pa.
Tara L. Castle, 19, of Chapin Street, Seneca Falls

Regarding the lower number of underage drinking citations, Deputy Chief Gordon Dibble said Slipknot and Slayer draw a slightly older crowd than say, Toby Keith.

"We still went out looking for violations, we just didn't find too many," Dibble said.

Dibble didn't have the exact attendance figures, but the projected attendance (which the Sheriff's Office uses to guage the size of its enforcement and traffic detail) was 6,500.

Oven fire reported on County Line Road, Darien

By Billie Owens

An oven fire is reported at 2683 County Line Road in Darien. The residents used a fire extinguisher on the blaze but it's unknown if that was effective. They were advised to leave the residence. Darien fire, with mutual aid from Corfu, is responding.

UPDATE 4:41 p.m.: A responder on scene reports nothing is showing (outside). The address is just north of Sumner Road. The residents are in the back yard. The house "is charged with fire (inside)" and the fireman says it looks "like a cake boiled over." The other unit responding is proceeding in non-emergency mode. They're going to check things out with a thermal-imaging camera.

UPDATE 4:53 p.m.: It was burnt food. All units back in service.

Officials see connection between 225 underage drinking citations and relatively quite Toby Keith concert

By Howard B. Owens

Toby Keith may like girls who drink beer, but when they come to his concerts at Darien Lake, those drinking beer better be at least 21 years old.

Last night a total of 225 young people found that out when they were issued citations in a joint effort involving the Sheriff's Office, State Police and Darien Lake security to crack down on underage drinking at the concert venue.

A checkpoint was set up earlier in the afternoon at the entrance to the park and at least a half dozen troopers were involved in issuing nearly 80 citations by 6 p.m.

The aggressive early enforcement, officials believe, contributed to quieter night with fewer arrests for rowdy behavior than is typical for a major country star's show at Darien Lake.

"What you’re seeing tonight is just a little more creative effort into ways to better to enforce (underage drinking)," said Bob Montgomery, general manager for the theme park. "We’ve worked hard this year and I think our arrests have almost doubled from what they were last year when they increased from whatever they’ve been in the past."

Throughout the evening, deputies talked about how fewer disruptive incidents they were being reported, almost with a level of amazement.

The show, after all, was Toby Keith, whose concert in 2011 had eight people arrested for alleged disruptive behavior.

On Sunday, only four people were taken into custody for what could be described as disruptive behavior.

Typically, as concertgoers try to exit the facility after a big country concert, police radio traffic is filled with hectic chatter of reports of fights in the parking lot, but last night only one "head-butting" incident was reported.

Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, who usually heads up the concert law enforcement detail, thinks curbing underage drinking helped the situation.

"I think it's a direct reflection on the ABCs (citations)," Sanfratello said.

During the 2011 season, law enforcement issued 526 citations for alleged underage drinking.

Coming into Sunday's show, there had already been 353 citations issued. Add in Sunday's ticket writing and it brings the year's total to 578. 

The 2012 season is only half over.

As underage drinkers were found, if they had alcohol, they had to dump it out or dispose of it, including those stopped at the checkpiont.

One officer said he came across a group of young people in the parking lot minutes after they arrived. The group had to dump out several six-packs of beer and an unopened bottle of gin.

As a result of the enforcement effort, an official said that fewer people than usual were refused entrance to the concert for being overly intoxicated.

"We’re really pleased with what we’ve seen tonight," Montgomery said. "It’s definitely made a difference tonight by being preemptive, and by putting the fence up it will work only that much better."

The chainlink fence will stretch along a large portion of the Darien Lake property on Sumner Road blocking access to the concert venue for anyone who tries to walk in from a private lot.

For years, residents along Sumner Road have let people park in their yards and pastures for a fee.

On Aug. 24, Darien Lake will close pedestrian access to the venue from Sumner Road.

Of course, concertgoers will still be able to park in the private lots, if residents continue to allow it, but they will be required to either drive into the venue or walk around to the main entrance on Alleghany Road.

"We're very interested in creating a safe environment for all guests," said Gerald Rakestraw, VP of development for Darien Lake's owner, Herschend Family Entertainment. "Securing the park's perimeter is key because of the pedestrian issues and access for emergency vehicles."

Rakestraw has been working closely with Montgomery and his staff to come up with a plan to improve concertgoer safety and enjoyment, he said.

While some property owners had signs up Sunday indicating they will shut down their parking operations Aug. 24, others may continue to try and lure concert goers to their lots.

There has been some talk of lots offering shuttles to the front entrance, but Montgomery said Darien Lake won't allow drop-offs from such shuttles.

"A shuttle in also means a shuttle out, and that’s just not feasible," Montgomery said. "So we’re not going to encourage that kind of operation because it really doesn’t work."

Officials plan to do their best to educate the public prior to Aug. 24 about the changes and there will be conspicuous signage for anybody going to private lots that pedestrian access to the park from Sumner Road is not allowed, Montgomery said.

"They'll find when they get here that they can't access the PAC area," Montgomery said. "Certainly they (concertgoers) are welcome to do park there,  but they’ll find they won’t be able to walk down (to the concert)."

Getting traffic moving out of the parking lot swiftly is a key strategy to cutting down on altercations in the parking lot, officials said. When there's gridlock, tempers flare. On Sunday, the parking lot was cleared of nearly all cars by 1 a.m., about an hour ahead of the typical time for a concert attended by more than 16,000 people.

With all the emphasis on underage drinking Sunday, Sanfratello, along with other members of law enforcement, said he could see a big difference in the parking lots both prior and after the show. There were fewer masses of young people gathered around big piles of empty beer cans. There was less unruly behavior and after the show. There was a lot less trash dumped on the ground.

The security trailer where suspects are booked prior to to arraignment in Darien Town Court was a pretty quiet room for most of Sunday night.

One person was brought in and had to be placed in a restraint chair as he appeared to fight with deputies while laughing and bragging of his strength.

Two other young women were booked for allegedly giving false information about themselves while being cited for alleged underage drinking.

Rachel A. Johnson, 19, of Linwood Road, Le Roy, allegedly gave Sanfratello the names of a friend and of her sister before Sanfratello acquired her real name.

She was charged with two counts of criminal impersonation, 2nd.

At one point he asked her, "Was it worth the $1,000 fine instead of a $50 ticket?"

Then there was the case of a 16-year-old from Canada who was cited for alleged underage drinking. He was stopped on Employee Road and as he was being written up he started to freak out just a little bit, sure the citation meant the end of all of his hopes and dreams.

"You don't understand," he said. "I'm from Canada. It's not like the United States. I was going into the army. They won't take me now."

Because of his age, a deputy spoke to his mother and got permission for him to be released to the custody of his older girlfriend.

Only minutes later, the youth returned. He said he didn't know what to do. A deputy told him to go enjoy the concert, but he couldn't because his girlfriend had just broken up with him and went into the show without him.

The youth had to wait in the security area until 10 p.m. when his father arrived from Canada to pick him up and take him home.

While a Buffalo News reporter was at the show Sunday, officials hope more Rochester and Buffalo media pick up the story of increased law enforcement pressure to curb underage and problem drinking at shows. They also hope stories such as this get passed around on Twitter and Facebook.

The message officials hope sinks in for the public isn't that you can come to Darien Lake, have a good time and even drink a little. It's just that if you're under 21, you shouldn't drink at all, and if you're of age, drink responsibly.

"We want people to com and have a great time here," Montgomery said. "Our issue is when that good time starts to go a little overboard and disturb the quiet enjoyment of the other people at the show."

The Sheriff's Office press release of arrests and citations along with more pictures from Sunday are after the jump (click on the headline to read more):

A group of young ladies enjoying an apparent bachorlette party in the parking lot prior to the show.

A popular game in the parking lot prior to a concert is "Kan Jam," which is sort of a Frisbee version of horseshoes.

A suspect struggles with deputies while being placed into a restraint chair.

At about 8 p.m., the stack of paperwork for citations and arrests.

During "the dump," when most concertgoers leave, Employee Road is blocked by pedestrians heading toward the private lots, and cars stream out of the private lots tying up traffic on Sumner Road. Officials hope the new fence is put into operation Aug. 24, it will help keep Employee Road open and Sumner Road safer and with better traffic flow.

A Toby Keith fan who also had a good time in the theme park.

Fans who wanted their picture on The Batavian. It's a little out of focus, but the gentleman recently returned from a deployment in Afghanistan and is home on leave.

More fans who asked to get their picture on The Batavian.

For after-show entertainment, just stand along Employee Road and watch people try to cross the drainage ditch. The mud sucks people right in. Regular observers figure if anybody ever digs out the ditch they will find hundreds of thousands shoes, sandals and flip-flops lost their over the years.

Sheriff's Office press release:

Sean A. Kota, 19, of Byron-Holley Road, Byron, is charged with disorderly conduct and possession of alcohol under 21 after allegedly causing a disturbance on Employee Road and being found in possession of alcohol being under age 21. Kota was arraigned and jailed on $250 bail.

Curtis P. A. Kelly, 21, of Hennepin Circle, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, is charged with trespass and resisting arrest after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return and then physically resisting arrest. Kelly was arraigned and jailed on $1,000 bail.

Megan E. Heywood, 19, of Genesee Street, Le Roy, is charged with false personation, disorderly conduct and possession of alcohol under 21 after allegedly giving a false age and blocking vehicular traffic on Employee Road. Heywood was also allegedly found in possession of alcohol under age 21. Heywood was arraigned and jailed on $200 bail.

Rachel A. Johnson, 19, of Linwood Road, Le Roy, is charged with two counts of criminal impersonation, 2nd, and possession of alcohol under age 21 after allegedly giving two different names when asked to correctly identify herself. Johnson was also allegedly found in possession of alcohol under age 21.

Adam J. Cole, 24, of Alpine Knoll, Fairport, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana by State Police.

James J.  Drzewiecki Jr., 19, of Roycroft Parkway, Elma, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and possession of alcohol under age 21.

Ashley Brant-Hunter, 17, of Chapman Parkway, Hamburg
Rachel D. Anderson, 17, of Drayton Parkway, Hamburg
Alexandria A. Schultz, 18, of Sundance Trail, Lakeview
Houston D. Draper, 19, of Woodside Court, Holley
Chelsea L. Solina, 19, of Eastwood Street, Buffalo
Mason A. Pritchard, 18, of Huff Road, Hemlock
Emily R. Schwegzler, 17, of Federal Road, Livonia
Bianca R. Lowrey, 19, of Collamer Road, Hilton
Patrick Palyer, 19, of Cayuga
Jessica A. Wilkes, 17, of Parker Street, Auburn
Laura M. Tuffo, 19, of Cooper Drive, Hilton
Taylor M. Balbierz, 17, of Amsdell Road, Hamburg
Emilia Vibloum, 19, of South Abbott Road, Orchard Park
Joshua E. Escobar, 19, of Woodside Court, Holley
Adrianna R Ricci, 18, of Holleybrook Road, Brockport
William E. Szelazkewicz, 19, of Stahley Road, East Amherst
Megan L. Haberer, 19, of Webster Road, Orchard Park
Michelle A. Hahn, 19, of Lapp Road, Alden
Megan M. Tomasello, 19, of Ransom Road, Lancaster
Ellen M. Meyersage, 20, of Andover Lane, Williamsville
Jenessa N. Lucey, 20, of Sandhurst Lane, Williamsville
Danielle M. Giamcarlo, 19, of North Autumn, Williamsville
Jacquelyn M. Murrer, 20, of Kingsview Court, Williamsville
Patrick M. Wannamaker, 19, of Frankin Street, Williamsville
Maxwell G. Kahn, 19, of Chicory Lane, East Amherst
Mitchell S. Kyser, 20, of East Main Street, Westfield
Gregory F. Dimock, 20, of Hunter Lane, Williamsville
Bradley J. Moancelli, 19, of Bowers Road, Casadaga
William P. Barber, 20, of Elm Street, Westfield
Michael J. Mercurid, 17, of Creekview Drive, Hamberg
Travis T. Scida, 20, of Powers Avenue, Johansonburg, Pa.
Alexander N. Kotrider, 19, of West Master Drive, East Amherst
Angelo J. Caruso, 18, of Ashford Court, East Amherst
Ashley M. James, 19, of Armison Road, Filmore
Matthew M. Lates, 19, of County Road #27, Portageville
Jessica E. Smith, 19, of Bernard Street, Filmore
Cody J. VanBuskirk, 20, of Wiskey Mills, Filmore
Anna K. Rauber, 18, of County Road #46, Dansville
Hailey M. Sick, 18, of Franklin Street, Dansville
Alexander C. Cerbini, 20, of Whittier Road, Brockport
David F. Lyons, 17, of Barker-Schoolhouse Road, Hamlin
Alexa A. Banaszak, 17, of Newberry Lane, Lancaster
Kyle G. McCarthy, 20, of Gordon Avenue, Lancaster
Peter G. Wallace, 19, of County Road #36, Wayland
Mandy L. Oakes, 17, of West Lake Road, Geneseo
Jessica Mancini, 20, of Rutgers Road, Andover, Md.
Lauren E. Piluso, 19, of Helendeler Road, Rochester
Erinn S. Hopkins, 19, of Cohocton
Tyler A. Barber, 18, of Weinhart Street, Wayland
Joseph L. Meyer III, 18, of Ward Road, Wayland
Cody J. Lang, 18, of Depot Road, Springwater
Samuel A. Moyer, 18, of Hollywood Drive, Lockport
Anthony J. King, 18, of Hollywood Drive, Lockport
Brian K. Rotsoth, 20, of Main Street, Canton, Ohio
Kathleen A. Cougen, 20, of Washington Street, Bradford, Pa.
David S. Dugburn, 20, of West Seneca
Taylor J. Maryniewski, 18, of Depew
Allison M. Weiss, 19, of Clarion Place, Whitesboro
Careena M. Gratan, 20, of Beachwood Drive, Caledonia
Arian L. Vasquez, 17, of Abbott Road, South Buffalo
Edward J. Krier Jr., 20, of Wellworth Place, Cheektowaga
Robert K. Capo, 18, of West Center Street, Medina
Samantha M. Staino, 18, of Hollybrook Road, Brockport
Samantha N. Havlom, 20, of Eagle Harbor Road, Albion
Tyler Harper, 18, of Ladue Road, Holley
Tyler J. Thielges, 19, of Granger Road, Wayland
Michael J. Murphy, 18, of County Road #36, Wayland
Cody J. Oas, 18, of Michigan Street, Perkinsville
Kevin J. Grimaldi, 18, of Walden Drive, Lakeview
Cody L. Winton, 20, of State Route 12, Sherburne
Cameron T. Yerton, 19, of North Road, Sherburne
Cynthia D. Bush, 18, of Classic Street, Sherburne
Joshua J. Mase, 20, of East Avenue, Batavia
Sara R. Hart-Predmore, 20, of Yarkerdale Drive, Rochester
Cedrick N. Simmons, 20, of Garden Apartment, Ithaca
Edward J. Buell, 18, of Ridgedale Circle, Greece
Kaitlyn A. Boehm, 19, of Ridgecrest Road, Rochester
Megan H. Kelly, 20, of Dohrcrest Drive, Rochester
Bryan M. Stehm, 19, of Sagewood Drive, Spencerport
Jason R. Hensel, 18, of Celtic Lane Rochester
Kyle J. Stubbe, 19, of Edgemere Drive, Rochester
Courtney L. O’Hara, 19, of Andrews Drive, Rochester
Stephanie L. Matteson, 19, of Woodsong Lane, Rochester
Andrew M. Frosini, 19, of Pebbleview Drive, Rochester
Nicholas H. Nadrowski, 19, of Lakeview Drive, Lakeview
Louis M. Wagner, 19, of Versailles Drive, Lakeview
Andrew M. Vincent, 19, of Clifton Parkway, Hamburg
Matthew J. Byrne, 19, of Wyndfield Court, Hamburg
Chelsy G. Karcher, 18, of Reserve Road, West Seneca
Correen L. Longbine, 20, of Milestrip Road, Orchard Park
Emily A. Whiteside, 20, of Hawthorne Drive, Orchard Park
Ashley E. Avino, 19, of Woodsfield Drive, Lakeview
Joanna M. T. Dunn, 19, of Twilight Lane, Hamburg
Emilia V. Bloom, 20, of South Abbott Road, Orchard Park
Aaron M. Ellison, 20, of Karrow Street, Orchard Park
Alexandria E. Schultz, 19, of Caitlin Terrace, Hamburg
Demi N. Flynn, 20, of North Collins, ?
Alicia M. Barratt, 20, of Seneca Street, Lawtons
Stevie R. Foit, 20, of Maple Street, Lawtons
Michael A. Spain, 17, of Otisco Valley Road, Preble
Joshuah T. Lewis, 17, of Stevens Road, Tully
Stuart D. Grass, 19, of Schuler Street, Syracuse
Jacquelyn A. Rapple, 19, of Kinyon Road, Marietta
Deanna M. Clappsaddle, 18, of Bear Ridge Road, North Tonawanda
Megan E. Clarke, 18, of Deerfield Drive, North Tonawanda
Justin P. Reinhardt, 19, of Deerfield Drive, North Tonawanda
Daniel R. Snyder, 20, of Mull Street, North Tonawanda
Raymond J. Wasieszko, 20, of Ruie Road, North Tonawanda
Matthew J. Rua, 20, of Sherwood Ave, North Tonawanda
Olivia L. Cabana, 19, of Ashford Avenue, Tonawanda
Rebecca R. Rush, 20, of Sundridge Drive, Amherst
Frank T. Nemeth, 19, of Kelly Drive, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada
Blake R. J. Roubos, 19, of Cataract Road, Thorold, Ontario, Canada
Daniel S. Holmes, 18, of Con. 4 Road, Street, Anns, Ontario, Canada
Rachel P. Meyer, 20, of Word Road, Wayland
Hayley S. Ormond, 19, of North Lackawana Street, Wayland
Katelyn M. Clawson, 20, of County Road #36, Atlanta
Taylor A. Morse, 17, of Granger Road, Wayland
Kevin R. Shaughnessy, 20, of Helfer Lane, Minoa
Nicholas A. Raesky, 17, of James Street, East Syracuse
Camri J. Hanlon, 18, of McNutt Road, Campbell
Brook D. Knowles, 20, of Reed Hill Road, Campbell
Corinne R. Wright, 20, of Main Street, Campbell
Jenna A. Clarke, 19, of 4th Section Road, Brockport
Jessica E. Daley, 20, of Bramblewood Lane, West Rochester
Hallie P. Fenti, 19, of Church Street, Hornell
Alexandria A. Gibson, 20, of Roncroff Drive, North Tonawanda
Kaitlyn H. Saunders, 18, of Euclid Avenue, Perry
Emily G. Gallagher, 20, of Wayland Road, Penfield
Alison M. Deacon, 20, of Creekview Drive, Hamburg
Derek R. Schmidt, 18, of Dean Road, Spencerport
Gregory M. Smith, 19, of Martin Road, Hamlin
Garrett D. Hartler, 19, of Dean Road, Spencerport
Lindsay A. Adams, 18, of Wedgedon Landing, Hilton
Alaina R. Bechtold, 20, of Hilton-Parma Corners Road, Spencerport
Mikayla L. Zanghi, 17, of Macintosh Drive, Rochester
Michael B. Coyne, 17, of West Gate Road, Kenmore
Sean J. Dungan, 19, of Zimmerman Blvd., Tonawanda
Chelsea L. Mooreage 19, of Desmond Drive, Tonawanda
William G. Moore, 18, of Woodward Avenue, Kenmore
Tyler J. Crawford, 18, of Johns Avenue, Buffalo
Timothy W. Balkin, 18, of Wellingwood Drive, East Amherst
Matthew R. Goss, 17, of Dodge Road, Getzville
Joseph C. Schrader, 20, of Harbor Street, Wilson
Molly J. Curry, 19, of Burch Road, Ransonville
Kimberly L. Daunce, 20, of Wilson Cambria Road, Wilson
Tyler W. Reimers, 19, of Wilson Cambria Road, Wilson
Camille L. Arth, 19, of Evergreen Drive, Lakeview
Mary E. Mcmahon, 16, of White Water Court, Hamburg
Thomas D. Scott, 17, of Second Avenue, Lancaster
Anessa L. Gervase Bage, 17, of Robinwood Court, Lancaster
Michael J. Enders, 17, of Pleasant View Drive, Lancaster
Francis J. Sterlace, 20, of Jackle Avenue, Silver Creek
Franklin G. Brown, 18, of Post Street, Irving
Hayley L. Trippy, 18, of Versailles Plank Road, North Collins
Levi M. Bower, 19, of East Avenue, Rochester
Jordyn A. Govenettio, 17, of Chapman Pkwy, Hamburg
Kali C. Compise, 16, of Overlook Point, Hamburg
Michael P. Edwards, 19, of Morgan Pkwy, Hamburg
Tiffany M. Agro, 18, of Linwood Avenue, Blasdell
James A. Militello, 20, of Champion Drive, Daytona Beach, Fla.
Nicholas J. Patronik, 19, of Juno Drive, Lakeview
Joshua L. Baker, 20, of Hewson Road, Lakeview
Garrett R. Cortright, 20, of Clifton Parkway, Hamburg
Jordan J. M. Harwood, 19, of Yankee Lane, Hornell
Kassandrea D. Heller, 18, of Maple Court, Hornell
Zachary M. Hynes, 17, of Split Rail Run, Penfield
Cody T. Murphy, 18, of Bowerman Road, Farmington
Aaron J. Ford, 17, of Green Road, Farmington
Sarah D. Kessler, 20, of Muriel Drive, Rochester
Michelle M. Snodgrass, 18, of Delta Road, Amherst
Rebecca A. Piduch, 20, of Gardenwood Lane, Buffalo
Nathan D. Rigby, 20, of Sodus Street, Clyde
Shannon D. Shakespeare-Brogan, 16, of Hogan Road, Fairport
Mikaela R. Cook, 18, of Wipple Tree Drive, Fairport
Ryan G. Weir, 20, of Cheryl Road, West Seneca
Nicholas S. Jennings, 19, of Logan Road, Attica
Patricia A. Glass, 20, of Chase Street, Medina
Clint A. Wright, 17, of Bethany Center Road, Wyoming
Nelson M. Burke, 16, of Main Street, Alexander
Lucas S. Terry, 17, of Holmes Hill Road, Conesus
Nicholas A. Braun, 19, of Pries Avenue, Buffalo
Sean P. Griffin, 20, of Rutland Street, Buffalo
Christopher P. Kane, 20, of Columbia Pkwy., West Seneca
Jacqueline P. Kane, 18, of McKinley Pkwy., Buffalo
Daniel M. Major, 19, of Hemlock Drive, Grand Island
Jermey R. Stark, 16, of Highway 3, East Port Colbourne, Ontario, Canada
Jacqueline H. Franck, 17, of Poplar Avenue, Ridgeway, Ontario, Canada
Andrew J. Kurtzhaltz, 19, of Prospect Avenue, East Aurora
Hanna J. Cimperman, 18, of Mill Road, East Aurora
Jaycen A. Watts, 20, of Pine Street, East Aurora
Joshua L. Cesario, 19, of John Peet Road, Canastota
Ryan P. Yeates, 18, of Norwood Avenue, Hamburg
Alexandra M. Curre, 18, of Corral Drive, Penfield
Matthew A. Majchrzak, 19, of Pennicott Circle, Penfield
Nicholas S. Fields, 18, of Seton Court, Penfield
William F. Asquith, 20, of Chaffee Road, Arcade
Jacqulyn M. Graber, 18, of Clarence Center Road, Clarence Center
Kristie Nasr, 18, of Glenhaven Drive, Amherst
Jonathan G. Vara, 18, of Manor Oak Drive, Amherst
Yanni S. Zulia, 17, of Bowen Drive, West North Tonawanda
Taylor N. Friedl, 19, of Cushing Road, Albion
Joel J. Prince, 20, of Claremont Park Palmyra
Timothy J. Depetris, 19, of Crestview Drive, Niagara Falls
Ian M. Marrett, 16, of East Bethany-Le Roy Road, Le Roy
Kristin N. Wach, 19, of Harmony Circle, Orchard Park
Adam R. Wattles, 19, of Old Lower East Hill Road, Colden
Kaitlyn M. Federico, 20, of Covered Bridge Circle, Greece
Max J. Roehmoldt, 19, of Village Point Lane, Williamsville
Brian J. Graham Jr., 20, of Lower Mountain Road, Lockport
Peter A. Roehmoldt, 20, of Village Point Lane, Williamsville
Ryan T. Burkard, 20, of West Minister Drive, East Amherst
Sean M. McGrath, 19, of Paul Place, Buffalo
Jordon Z. Richard, 18, of Lapp Road, Alden
Miguel-Christian Aragon-Prieto, 18, of Century Road, Orchard Park
Carly R. Hill, 19, of Doran Road, Lima
Joseph O. Pinter, 18, of Roat Drive, Angola
Elizabeth A. Gawronski, 20, of Cottage Street, Fredonia
Jason W. Myrick, 19, of Lovers Lane Road, Corfu
Chelsee M. Baun, 20, of Carlyle Avenue, Buffalo

"The Hill" plans to stay open; Darien Lake's plan to fence near it may increase pre-concert DWI's

By Timothy Walton

Darien Lake recently announced it's plan to build a fence along Sumner Road, which would close off access to the concert venue from Cherry Hill Campground, better known as "The Hill" and other nearby parking lots.

As of Aug. 17, pedestrian access to the Performing Arts Center will be restricted to passenger drop-off at a designated area near the main gate, or parking in the Darien Lake parking lots. According to a Darien Lake press release this prior week, General Manager Bob Montgomery stated that the plan, which would prohibit concer goers from walking into the venue, was designed to decrease the risk and eliminate those that are walking along the roadway, as well as decrease pre-and post-show alcohol consumption and traffic jams.

Although Darien Lake has stated that they have plenty of parking for all concert goers even on a sold out night, that doesn't seem to fit well for the hundreds of people that have been taking to "The Hill" for the past years and it was no different tonight as it was packed as patrons parked there for the Toby Keith concert.

"Nothing is going to change, we are just going to have to figure a way to get over there (to the venue) but we're still planning on parking up here" stated one concert goer. "We'll figure something out, none of my friends plan on parking anywhere else" stated another. "If anything we just won't go into the concert and we will just hang out up here." he added.

The presumed manager of "The Hill" stated that "we will still be open for camping and people will still park up here. They will all just have to bring a DD (designated driver) to drive up there (to the main entrance)." When asked whether they had any plans to set up a shuttle service or bus rides to curb driving she walked away without any comment.
 

The Hill, which a former employee disclosed makes an estimate of $6,000+ per concert, would presumably continue to market itself as a concert parking lot to avoid the high loss of revenue. It would be up to all those parking at "The Hill" to be responsible to find sober transportation from the location, to the main entrance of the concert venue, less than a mile away. Although some probably would make the right decision, we can only assume that there will be those that would take the risk driving under the influence given the extremely short distance required to drive.

Officials hope new Darien Lake parking rules will improve traffic flow, curb underage drinking, improve safety

By Howard B. Owens

For Brian English, the prospect of people no longer parking on the front lawn of his home on Sumner Road won't make or break him.

He has a full-time job. He can still meet his expense budget. He just won't get the extra cash that made living next door to Darien Lake Theme Park so much fun.

For some of his neighbors, the new policy banning pedestrian traffic from entering the concert venue from off-site parking could be a problem, English said.

"I'm going to hate to lose the money, but I'm not going to go bankrupt," English said. "Some of the people that count on the money, it's going to drive them to bankruptcy."

When the new policy takes effect Aug. 17, according to officials, it is aimed at addressing three ongoing issues with concerts at the park:

  • Pedestrian safety on Sumner Road;
  • Traffic flow in and out of the venue;
  • Underage drinking sometimes associated with concerts at the venue.

Steve Hollowell, marketing director for Darien Lake, said the park's owners and management started working on a plan to deal with these issues last summer and decided to implement it this year.

Gordon Dibble, deputy chief with the Sheriff's Office, said it's been obvious there is a safety problem along Sumner Road on concert nights.

"Well, I think the safety concern is obvious to anybody that if you have that kind of foot traffic at any venue anywhere and then throw in alcohol into it, you don't have to be a police officer to understand the danger there," Dibble said. "It's a major concern."

Earlier this summer a young man stepped in front of a van on Sumner Road and was killed. Though the driver has been cleared of any wrongdoing, the accident remains under investigation and details about events around the accident have not been released.

Dibble and Hollowell both said they expect the changes to improve access into and out of the parking areas.

Hollowell said one of the major problems with the private lots is that the owners let all of their customers leave at the same time, dumping thousands of cars all at once onto Sumner Road. That blocks up traffic for customers who have parked for free in Darien's own lots.

The change will allow the Sheriff's Office to more efficiently manage the traffic, Dibble said, in part because with less traffic they can use Sumner as a detour when traffic to the Thruway becomes too backed up. Deputies will also be able to send traffic out of the back gate from the grass lots in either direction, giving the Sheriff's Office greater flexibility in managing traffic.

While there's never been a problem with law enforcement going onto private property, such as the Hill, to check for underage drinking, it isn't something deputies do often, Dibble said.

Typically, deputies position themselves at the bottom of the driveway to the Cherry Hill Campground or on Employee Road and detect and ticket alleged underage drinkers that way.

Hollowell said with all of the parking confined to the Darien Lake property, it will be easier for law enforcement and Darien Lake's own security to detect possible underage drinkers.

Officials hope that will reduce the amount of underage drinking at concerts.

"We think we will be able to better enforce the rules much more effectively in our own lots," Hollowell said.

Brian English said that if pedestrians on Sumner Road are an issue, that shouldn't really effect his property, which is on the north side of the road and pedestrians can walk right onto Darien's property without getting anywhere near the roadway.

Officials said allowing even access to the venue for pedestrians leaving his property and other north-of-the-road properties doesn't address the traffic flow issues.

The first area of construction for the new fences being erected by Darien Lake is directly across the road from Cherry Hill Campground, known far and wide as "The Hill."

The couple who identified themselves as the owners of Cherry Hill Campground, but didn't provide their names, refused an interview with The Batavian.

They objected to our coverage of the pedestrian's death (the man was hit on Sumner Road while crossing from the driveway of The Hill and the male owner objected to The Batavian reporting that the incident happened at The Hill) and they both objected to yesterday's headline on the Darien Lake parking story that began "End of The Hill."

'It's far from the end of 'The Hill,'" the man said.

The woman said, "When you can engage in unbiased reporting, then we'll talk with you."

To any further questions she said, "No comment."

Law and Order: Police reportedly struggle with woman arrested on previous warrant for resisting arrest

By Howard B. Owens

Samantha M. Williams, 31, of 218 State St., Batavia, is charged with resisting arrest and false personation. Batavia PD contacted Williams at 8:58, Thursday, in an attempt to execute an arrest warrant out of the Town of Hamburg on charges of resisting arrest and obstructing governmental administration, 2nd. When Batavia PD officers attempted to arrest Williams, she allegedly gave a false name and then allegedly resisted arrest. Williams was issued an appearance ticket for city court and turned over to the Hamburg PD.

Nicole Marie Paddock, 24, of Liberty Street, Warsaw, is charged with harassment, 2nd. Paddock is accused of striking a female friend as the exited the concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center parking lot at 10:30 p.m., Thursday.

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