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Darien

Law and Order: Hutchins Street teen charged with second-degree rape

By Billie Owens

Adrian R. Laird, 18, of Hutchins Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree rape. Laird's arrest stems from an alleged incident on Hutchins Street in Batavia at 8 p.m. on Jan. 10. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court on Feb. 10 and is to return there at 9 a.m. on Feb. 13. The case was investigated by Batavia Police Detective Matthew Wojtaszczyk.

Gregory Seppe (inset photo, left), 61, of Pringle Avenue, Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and second-degree burglary. He was arrested at 11:39 a.m. on Feb. 8 in the 100 block of State Street by Batavia Police Officer Peter Post after he allegedly pushed his way into a local residence while attempting to sell drugs. Seppe allegedly refused to leave after being asked to do so multiple times by the tenants. Seppe was released on an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Feb. 13. Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider assisted in the case.

Alexis V. Finnin, 31, of Washington Avenue, Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child. She was arrested after an investigation of an incident on East Main Street in Batavia at 8:38 p.m. on Sept. 14. It is alleged that at that time she was intoxicated/impaired to the point of not being able to adequately supervise a 5-year-old child, thereby subjecting the child to risk of physical, mental and moral harm. She was released on an appearance ticket and was due in Batavia City Court on Feb. 11. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jason Ivison.

Tanya Lee Captain, 32, of Darien, is charged with: aggravated driving while intoxicated -- a BAC of .18 percent or more; DWI -- first offense; criminal mischief -- intentionally damaging property; and failure to stop at a stop sign. She was arrested at 11:57 p.m. Feb. 11 in Alexander after an incident was investigated that occurred on Pike Road in the Town of Batavia. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Alexander Town Court on Feb. 18. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Austin Heberlein, assisted by Deputy John Baiocco.

Michelle L. Sahr, 52, of North Main Street, Albion, is charged with second-degree harassment. She was arrested on a warrant out of Batavia City Court after she was located by Albion PD on an unrelated matter. She was processed at Batavia PD and released on an appearance ticket for Feb. 13 in city court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Wesley Rissinger, assisted by Officer Miah Stevens.

Debra Lynn Mattoon, 40, of Batavia Oakfield Townline Road, Oakfield, was arrested and charged with petit larceny at 4 p.m. Feb. 7. It is alleged that she stole merchandise from Tops Friendly Market in Batavia. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Feb. 18. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Adam Tucker, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Law and Order: Man accused of kicking door and damaging property on Tinkham Road in Darien

By Billie Owens

Donald Eugene Missel, 69, of Mill Road, West Seneca, is charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief. At 4:48 p.m. on Feb. 6, Missel allegedly kicked a door and caused damage to a person's property in the 10000 block of Tinkham Road in Darien. Missel was arraigned in Darien Town Court at 10:25 that evening and released on his own recognizance. He is due back in Darien Town Court on Feb. 11. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Jonathan Dimmig, assisted by Deputy Mathew Clor.

Travis George Hawley, 28, of Willow Street, Rochester, is charged with: operating a motor vehicle while having a BAC of .08 percent or more; driving while intoxicated; being an unlicensed driver; and moving from lane unsafely. At 7:51 a.m. on Feb. 1, the Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center received a report of a car vs. pole accident on Bloomingdale Road in the Town of Alabama. An investigation at the scene allegedly determined that Hawley was driving while intoxicated. He was issued appearance tickets returnable to Town of Alabama Court on Feb. 26. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kevin McCarthy, assisted by Deputy Travis DeMuth.

Tonya Weber Jackson, 35, of Liberty Street, Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant out of Batavia City Court on Feb. 2. She was located at a residence on East Avenue in Batavia and arraigned in city court on Feb. 6. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Adam Tucker.

Orin Ardell Dinkins, 47, of Glenville Drive, Rochester, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana and operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration. Dinkins was arrested following a traffic stop at 1:41 p.m. Feb. 5 on Oak Street in Batavia. He was issued appearance tickets and is due in Batavia City Court on Feb. 25. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Erik Andre.

Six Flags Darien Lake is officially a Certified Autism Center to better serve guests with special needs

By Billie Owens

Press release:

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE:SIX), the world’s largest regional theme park company and the largest operator of waterparks in North America, today announced that each of its 26 parks will earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

This initiative will mark the first-ever family of parks to earn the designation at all locations, including the one in Darien Center in Genesee County.

“We are proud to partner with IBCCES to ensure that guests on the autism spectrum have the best possible experience when visiting our parks,” said Six Flags Vice President of Safety Jason Freeman.

“The certification process will equip our team members with the tools and training needed to better serve guests with special needs. We want them to know Six Flags stands ready to welcome them with open arms.” 

Many individuals and families with children on the autism spectrum or with sensory sensitivities find it challenging when visiting new places or planning family trips. The potential for sensory overload combined with a lack of understanding and awareness at parks and other recreational venues can often be overwhelming.

The CAC designation from IBCCES, the only credentialing board providing these services for the amusement and attractions industry, requires that at least 80 percent of "guest-facing staff" at each park complete a training and certification program through IBCCES as well as complete onsite audits and make a commitment to ongoing training.

The staff training focuses on understanding the autism spectrum and strategies for communication, guest experience, and safety, while the onsite audit will give each park techniques and guidance on additional updates.

As a Certified Autism Center, Six Flags parks will provide:

  • Trained, courteous, front-line team members with the ability to identify visual cues to better accommodate guests with cognitive disorders and help them enjoy their time in the parks;
  • A sensory guide for each ride and attraction so guests can make informed decisions about the ride experience and their level of comfort;
  • Special in-park sensory spaces, where guests with sensory needs can relax in a less stimulating environment;
  • Expanded culinary options to meet guests’ dietary needs (such as gluten-free items); and  
  • An updated Accessibility Guide available at sixflags.com, Guest Relations and Ride Information Centers at each park. 

“IBCCES is extremely excited to work with a family of parks with this level of commitment,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board chairman. “So many families just need more communication and understanding from parks and other attractions, so they can make those memories together that we all cherish.

"In some cases, small changes can make a huge impact, and our certification program ensures each park is committed to long-term growth and understanding, not just a one-time training.” 

"As a person on the spectrum, it is exciting to see more parks taking the extra steps to accommodate all guests," said Dr. Stephen Shore. "The commitment Six Flags is making to a true certification process is impressive and means so much to millions of individuals and families. Creating family memories and recreation are essential for both individuals with ASD and their families as a whole." 

For almost 20 years, IBCCES has been the industry leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for healthcare, education and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES recognized that many families with children who have special needs have limited travel options. In response to this need, IBCCES created training and certification programs specifically for the attractions and travel industry. While many destinations tout “autism-friendly” options, this phrase means something different to everyone and does not necessarily indicate a true understanding or commitment to serving these guests. 

Six Flags will also be the first network of parks to implement IBCCES’ Accessibility Card. The cards may be used during all Six Flag park visits. For more information on the Accessibility Card registration visit www.accessibilitycard.org.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

It is the world’s largest regional theme park company and the largest operator of waterparks in North America, with $1.5 billion in revenue and 26 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For 59 years, Six Flags has entertained millions of families with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com.

53 local students named to fall 2019 Provost's List at GCC

By Billie Owens

A total of 248 students from Genesee Community College were named to Provost's List for fall 2019, including 53 who reside in Genesee County.

Students honored on the Provost's List have maintained part-time enrollment and earned a quality point index of 3.75 (roughly equivalent to an A) or better.

Jacob Farnsworth of Alexander (14005)

Naomi LaDuke of Alexander (14005)

Morgan Woodhouse of Alexander (14005)

Jessica Lennon of Alexander (14005)

Julia Lennon of Alexander (14005)

Melanie Snyder of Basom (14013)

Catherine Bilodeau-Redeye of Basom (14013)

Elizabeth Rindell of Batavia (14020)

Mikala Phillips of Batavia (14020)

Elizabeth Grosskopf of Batavia (14020)

Andrew Lin of Batavia (14020)

Bernard Skalny of Batavia (14020)

Samuel Sallome of Batavia (14020)

Erik Kesler of Batavia (14020)

Justin Scott of Batavia (14020)

Brian Wheeler of Batavia (14020)

Janelle DiMartino of Batavia (14020)

Tammy Kingdollar of Batavia (14020)

Margaret Richardson of Batavia (14020)

Carolyn Logsdon of Batavia (14020)

Kyla Phillips of Batavia (14020)

Alexis Balduf of Batavia (14020)

Cassandra Dembik of Batavia (14020)

Robert Tripp of Batavia (14020)

Gabriella Rindell of Batavia (14020)

Janae Meister of Batavia (14020)

Bailey Gavenda of Batavia (14020)

Alexandria Tarbell of Corfu (14036)

Jeffrey Fischer of Corfu (14036)

Nicole Alvord of Darien Center (14040)

Lauren Carli of East Bethany (14054)

Brian Wlazlak of East Bethany (14054)

Angelique Newton of East Bethany (14054)

Kimberly McCullough of E Pembroke (14056)

Robert Stabler of Elba (14058)

Racheal Cook of Elba (14058)

Jamie Lippold of Oakfield (14125)

Shannon Pohl of Oakfield (14125)

Patrick Puccio of Stafford (14143)

Kathryn Long of Stafford (14143)

Kelly Kruppner of Bergen (14416)

Kristina Bird of Bergen (14416)

Anna Morrill of Bergen (14416)

Grace Morrill of Bergen (14416)

Siomara Caballero of Byron (14422)

John Boyle of Le Roy (14482)

Nicole Roth of Le Roy (14482)

Marshall Schultz of Le Roy (14482)

Jacob Eggleston of Le Roy (14482)

Morgan Luce of Le Roy (14482)

Jared Carlson of Le Roy (14482)

Cassandra Hirsch of Pavilion (14525)

Katelyn Barnes of Pavilion (14525)

Genesee Community College serves more than 5,000 students with more than 65 academic programs and certificates. Among the many options are the Marketing and Social Media concentration within the Business Administration program, Food Processing Technology, Theater Arts, and six different healthcare programs including the new Health Studies, A.S.

Each GCC student is assigned a success coach at the College's Student Success Center. The coach provides academic and career guidance from the first steps of the admissions process through to graduation or transferring credits to other institutions. The College's robust athletic program is housed in the state-of-the-art Richard C. Call Arena featuring a fieldhouse, fitness center, Human Performance Lab, press box, as well as coaches' offices and classrooms.

GCC operates seven campus locations throughout Western New York, a significant online program, and student housing is available at College Village, just a three minute walk from the Batavia Campus. With small class sizes and innovative technology inside and out of the classroom, SUNY GCC is known for being "high tech" and "high touch."

Darien student wins American Legion Zone 5 Oratorical Contest, competes in Albany next

By Billie Owens

From left are: Tim and Lisa Schultz, Shawn Calmes, Bob Rebmann, Steve Schum.

Photo and information from Bob Rebmann. 

Congratulations go out to Shawn Calmes, who won the American Legion Zone 5 Oratorical Contest on the U.S. Constitution in Geneseo on Saturday (Feb. 1).

Shawn did a magnificent job, as the competition was very tough. He will move on to compete in Albany next month for a chance at a $,6000 scholarship and the right to move on to the National Finals at American Legion Headquarters in Indianapolis in April, where a $20,000 scholarship is top prize.

Shawn resides in Darien and is a sophomore at Alexander High School. Shawn is sponsored by Wyoming County American Legion and Harder-O'Donnell Post 734 in Attica. It is believed that Shawn is the first contestant of the Harder-O'Donnell Post to advance to the statewide competition.

Job well done goes out to Shawn and we wish him the best moving on!

About the American Legion Oratorical Contest

It exists to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students. Since 1938, the program has presented participants with an academic speaking challenge that teaches: important leadership qualities; the history of our nation’s laws; the ability to think and speak clearly; and an understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights and privileges of American citizenship.

The program has featured numerous politicians and prominent contestants over the years, including former presidential candidate Alan Keyes, national television commentator and talk radio host Lou Dobbs, and Vice President of the United States Mike Pence.

Corfu officer, Darien deputy supervisor challenges Sheron for Sheriff office

By Howard B. Owens

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Press release:

Corfu Police Officer and Darien Deputy Town Supervisor David Krzemien is announcing his candidacy for Genesee County Sheriff. Krzemien is seeking endorsement from all party lines.

He started his more than 20-year law enforcement career right here in Genesee County. He graduated from the Rural Police Training Academy housed at Genesee Community College.

This foundational training opened the doors to many opportunities in the field of law enforcement.

Since that time, he has served as a police officer and then detective for the Niagara Frontier Transit Authority, known as the NFTA, where he led the Counter Terrorism Unit for seven years.

He also worked part time for the Blasdell Police Department, as a field training officer, court officer and detective for 14 years.

Now retired from the NFTA, Krzemien serves as a part-time officer with the Village of Corfu Police Department and is a seasonal deputy with the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. He also serves on the Darien Town Board as Deputy Town Supervisor.

Krzemien, his wife Michelle, and their five children have lived in Genesee collectively for more than 30 years.

Law and Order: Pearl Street woman accused of spitting in the eyes of nurse caring for her at UMMC

By Billie Owens

Kelly A. Rodriguez, 47, of Pearl Street, Batavia, is charged with aggravated harassment in the second degree. She is accused of spitting in the eyes of a nurse at UMMC in Batavia who was caring for her. She was given an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court at 1 p.m. on Feb. 11. The case was investigated by Batavia Police Officer Peter Post.

Wendy L. Henry, 35, no permanent address, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. Henry was arrested for allegedly violating a stay away order of protection at 5:37 a.m. on Jan. 26 on Central Avenue in Batavia. The defendant was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Feb. 4. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Joshua Girvin, assisted by Officer Nicole McGinnis.

Jacoby Luc Green, 20, of Lake Street, Perry, is charged with operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs and moving from lane unsafely. At 4:56 a.m. on Jan. 29, Genesee County Sheriff's deputies responded to the intersection of Route 20 and Perry Road in Pavilion for a report of a one-car collision. After an investigation, Green was arrested and arraigned in Town of Pavilion Court. The defendant is due back there on Feb. 4. The case was handled by Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush, assisted by Deputy James Stack.

Matthew Ronald Hinze, 29, of Genesee Street, Attica, is charged with: driving while intoxicated; aggravated DWI; and possession of an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle. At 9:15 p.m. on Jan. 28, Genesee County Sheriff's deputies stopped a vehicle on the south shoulder of Sumner Road in Darien. Following an investigation, Hinze was arrested. He was issued appearance tickets and is due in Town of Darien Court on Feb. 18. The was was handled by Deputy Erik Andre.

Three GC students named to fall 2019 dean's list at Cazenovia College

By Billie Owens

Cazenovia College recognizes students for their academic achievement during the fall 2019 semester. Those named to the dean's list have achieved a 3.5 or better grade-point average.

  • Haley Boren, of Alexander
  • Sophia Cacioppo, of Le Roy
  • Maria Fontaine, of Darien Center

Cazenovia College is an independent, co-educational college near Syracuse, offering graduate and bachelor degree programs in the liberal arts and professional studies in an exceptional community environment, with academic and co-curricular programs devoted to developing leaders in their fields.

Cazenovia has been named a "Best College" by U.S. News & World Report for 16 consecutive years and has also been recognized by Money and Washington Monthly as a best value institution. For more information, visit www.cazenovia.edu.

Nine local students named to Buffalo State College fall 2019 dean's list

By Billie Owens

Buffalo State College is pleased to recognize the following students who have been named to the Fall 2019 dean's list. In general, students who have completed at least 12 credit hours and who have attained a GPA of 3.5 or higher qualify for the Buffalo State dean's list. Full criteria and grade-type exceptions can be found in the undergraduate catalog.

  • Kodian Becker, of Darien Center 
  • Holly Grayson, of Oakfield
  • Jenna Huntington, of Elba 
  • Brendon Kendall, of South Byron 
  • Angelina Miconi, of Batavia 
  • Mckenna Moran, of Darien Center 
  • Dylah Pantlin, of Batavia 
  • Miranda Schiller, of Alexander
  • Samantha Tatarski, of Corfu 

Buffalo State is a State University of New York (SUNY) college located in Buffalo. The college offers 79 undergraduate majors as well as many minors and certificate programs. Every year, thousands of students benefit from Buffalo State's community engagement, hands-on learning opportunities, and affordable SUNY tuition. Buffalo State also offers more than 60 graduate programs.

Wind blew building onto its roof in Corfu

By Howard B. Owens

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An outbuilding rests on its roof in Corfu (Town of Darien) off of Route 33 just east of the County line following Saturday night's windstorm.

Photo submitted by a  Arielle McVay​.

Law and Order: Depew teen accused of assault at last summer's Wiz Kahlifa concert at Darien Lake

By Billie Owens

Alexander Daniel Neu, 18, of Dubonnet Drive, Depew, is charged with third-degree assault. Neu was arrested for allegedly striking a victim in the face at the Wiz Khalifa concert at 7 p.m. on July 21 at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center, causing physical injury to the victim. He is due to be arraigned in Darien Town Court at 4 p.m. on Jan. 14. The case was investigated by Genesee County Sheriff's Investigator/Youth Officer Timothy G. Wescott, assisted by Investigator Howard Carlson.

Joshua C. Pesci, 25, of Broadway Avenue, Alden, is charged with: two counts of driving while intoxicated; failure to use designated lane; driving on the sidewalk; unreasonable speed. Pesci was arrested Jan. 3 on South Main Street in Batavia following a property damage accident at 2:05 a.m. He was issued appearance tickets and is due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 22. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jordan McGinnis, assisted by Officer Peter Post.

Nathan E. Hinze, 26, of Clifton Avenue, Batavia, is charged with driving while intoxicated and aggravated DWI. Hinze was arrested after a property damage accident on East Avenue in Batavia on Jan. 4 wherein he allegedly damaged a telephone pole with his vehicle. Hinze and his vehicle were located at 2:19 a.m. at a residence on Farwell Avenue. He was released on an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Jan. 22. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Marc Lawrence.

William J. Haight, 31, no permanent address, is charged with criminal mischief in the fourth degree and unlawful imprisonment in the second degree. Haight was arrested following a omestic incident at 12:07 a.m. on Jan. 6 on Jackson Street in Batavia. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and is there again on Jan. 14. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Adam Tucker, assisted by Officer Peter Post.

Michael A. Ames, 27, of Le Roy, was arrested by Wyoming County Sheriff's Deputy Nowak on Jan. 3 for failure to pay a fine levied in Wyoming County. Nowak was notified by the Batavia Police Department that Ames was in custody on an active Superior Court Arrest Warrant. Deputies from Wyoming County met with Batavia PD and gained custody of the defendant and he was transported to Wyoming County Jail for commitment. He was due in Wyoming County Court on Jan. 6.

Donations from third annual 'Living Manger' in Pembroke Town Park will help local food pantry

By Virginia Kropf

Photo: James Childs, 9, left, and Charles Stringham, 9, are shepherds posing with sheep belonging to Ed and Julie Keller, of Corfu, during the Living Manger Saturday night in Pembroke Town Park.

CORFU – For the third year, several churches in the Corfu/Pembroke area have combined their efforts to enact a live nativity scene in the Pembroke Town Park.

From 5 to 7 Saturday night, members of the Indian Falls United Methodist Church, High Point Community Church and North Darien Bible Church donned Biblical attire and took up their roles as shepherds, angels, Wise Men and Mary and Joseph.

Corfu Presbyterian Church also provided assistance, said Meagan Stringham, who helped organize the event with Celinda McQuistion.

There was no charge to drive through the displays, but donations were accepted for the Corfu Presbyterian Church food pantry.

Bales of straw were piled high along the driveway and a variety of live animals, including sheep, goats and a donkey nibbled at the bales.

Dan Spoth, of Clarence, said the Phelps family brought in a goat and the donkey, while two sheep came from Ed and Julie Keller, of Corfu.

After driving past all the stations set up, drivers could stop at the last tent to enjoy a hot beverage and cookies.

Photos by Virginia Kropf.

Below, Christina Sosnowski, rear, Allie Stringham and Jessica Soskowski are three angels.

Bottom, Sisters Makena (kneeling), Brooke and Josie Reding watch two goats eat in one of the scenes of the nativity.

PCD Kiwanis host breakfast with Santa Claus, Cindy Lou and The Grinch tomorrow at St. Maximillian Kolbe Hall

By Billie Owens

Submitted photo and (most of the) information:

The Pembroke Corfu Darien Kiwanis Club is hosting breakfast with some special friends on Sunday and you're invited.

Santa Claus and his seasonally intermittent chums Cindy Lou and The Grinch (left to right, inset photo) will be there as guests, so bring the kids and cameras! There is a free gift for each child, too!

Breakfast will be served from 9 a.m. to noon in East Pembroke at the St. Maximillian Kolbe Parish Hall, located at 8656 Church St.

There will be pancakes, sausage, applesauce and a beverage.

Cost is $6 for adults; $5 for children age 6 to 12; children 5 and under eat free.

The Kiwanis Club is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and community at a time. For more information about the PCD Kiwanis, call Pat at 762-8429.

FWIW: The Grinch might not be too thrilled about attending, but he said he'd be there, albeit begrudgingly. (Not much of a smiler, that guy.) Miss Cindy Lou Who, of Whoville, on the other hand is perked up by the prospect and the chance to show off her distinctive coiffure with yuletide touches. Santa, of course, is an old pro at these kinds of photo ops and doesn't mind sharing the limelight.

Lawn Pass for 2020 concert season at Darien Lake offers a 24-hour presale Tuesday

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Los Angeles-based Live Nation Entertainment, the world’s leading live entertainment company, announced the return of Lawn Pass. for the 2020 season. Darien Lake Performing Arts Center in Darien Center is one of 29 participating venues.

For just $199 (plus fees), music fans get unlimited lawn access to concerts, including sold-out shows.

Sold for a limited time only, fans can get their hands on the Lawn Pass (use the drop-down menu to select the desired venue) beginning with a 24-hour presale exclusively for T-Mobile app customers on Tuesday, Dec. 10 starting at 5 a.m. The presale is available until 5 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 11

The general Lawn Pass sale will start at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec.11, and be available through 8:59 p.m. Eastern Time Tuesday, Dec. 31st or while supplies last, making it the perfect holiday gift for any music lover.

Each Lawn Pass purchaser will receive a custom laminate with their name on a lanyard that serves as their ticket on show day.

Rare stone tool artifacts from prehistoric Lamb Site in Darien up for bid Saturday in Clarence

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and press release:

A collection of 30 very rare, very early artifacts will be auctioned off this Saturday, Nov. 30, beginning at 10 a.m. at Schultz Auctioneers, 11177 Main St. in Clarence.

The artifacts represent the complete collection of Clovis Artifacts located during a five-year project of excavation by R.M. Gramley, Ph.D., beginning in the late 1980s at the Lamb Site in Darien and have never before been offered for sale. They will be auctioned as a single lot.

Gramley and his group of volunteers were able to catalog three distinct groups of artifacts indicating three different activities. Cluster A produced a group of miscellaneous tools that indicated a habitation area. Another area, designated as cluster B, produced debris fragments from stone tool manufacturing and a third area, cluster C, produced a cache of Clovis points and bifaces.

The Clovis culture is a prehistoric Paleo-American culture named for the distinct stone tools – called Clovis points -- found in close association with Pleistocene fauna at Blackwater Locality No. 1 near Clovis, NM, in the 1920s and 1930s. Clovis points are wholly distinctive. Chipped from jasper, chert, obsidian and other fine, brittle stone, they have a lance-shaped tip and (sometimes) wickedly sharp edges.

Extending from the base toward the tips are shallow, concave grooves called “flutes” that may have helped the points be inserted into spear shafts. Typically about four inches long and a third of an inch thick, they were sleek and often beautifully made. Some believe them to be the first American invention.

Included in the collection – which will be sold as ONE collection – is the only Knife River point found in New York State, as well as two pieces that are the largest Clovis point and knife in New York State.

The Lamb Site near Darien in Genesee County is a late Clovis period site that dates back more than 12,000 years ago. It was used as a habitation site and a stone tool manufacturing and cache site. More information about the collection and the Lamb Site can be found here.

Previews of the auction will take place on Friday, Nov. 29 and Saturday, Nov. 30 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. The auction is free and open to the public; reservations are not required. For more information, call 716.759.2260 or visit schultzauctioneers.net for photos and descriptions.

About Schultz Auctioneers

With more than 50 years’ experience, Kelly Schultz is Western New York’s acknowledged authority on antiques, collectibles and fine arts. As founder of Antique World and Flea Market, he has created one of the largest antique centers in Western New York, with over 200 dealers and five shops open daily. Kelly travels from coast to coast and internationally, procuring antiques, oriental rugs, fine furniture and rare, unusual items, creating one of the finest antique galleries in the country. In 2003, Kelly’s son, Ben, received his auctioneer license and has been working alongside Kelly for many years. For more information, visit www.schultzauctioneers.net

Law and order: Maple Street mom accused of resisting arrest, endangering her children, harassment and criminal contempt

By Billie Owens

Amanda M. Webb, 30, of Maple Street, Batavia, was charged on Nov. 3 with: resisting arrest; two counts of endangering the welfare of a child less than 17; criminal contempt in the first degree -- physical contact; and two counts of second-degree harassment -- physical contact; and third-degree criminal mischief. At 11:01 a.m. on Nov. 3, Webb was arrested following a traffic stop on Bank Street in Batavia. She allegedly violated a stay away order of protection and hit the protected party. Then Webb allegedly physically resisted officers during her arrest while her two children were in the vehicle. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court, jailed without bail and was due back in court on Nov. 4. That's when the third-degree criminal mischief charge was added following an investigation of an incident that took place at 11:40 a.m. on Nov. 1 outside a residence on Wood Street in the city. Webb was due in Batavia City Court Nov. 8 in that matter (which also includes one of the two second-degree harassment charges). The cases were handled by Batavia police officers Joshua Girvin, Arick Perkins, Jordan McGinnis and Wesley Rissinger. 

Lawrence A. Guy, 43, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree attempted assault and fourth-degree criminal mischief. Guy was arrested at 1:17 a.m. Nov. 11 following a domestic dispute. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in Genesee County Jail without bail. He is due to return to city court on Nov. 14. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Flanagan and Officer Adam Tucker.

Charles L. Stiles, 44, of Otis Street, Batavia, is charged with third degree assault and criminal mischief. He was arrested at 8 p.m. on Oct. 19 following q domestic dispute. He was arraigned Oct. 20 in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $1,000 cash or bond. He was due to return to court Oct. 21. The case was handled by Bataiva Police Officer Peter Post, assisted by Officer Sean Wilson.

Eric J. McGill, 36, of Hutchins Place, Batavia, is charged with second-degree menacing and criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree. He is accused of using a baseball bat to menace a person on Hutchins Place in Batavia. He was arrested at 2:34 p.m. on Nov. 5, arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $2,500 cash or bond. McGill was due to return to city court Nov. 7. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Jordan McGinnis.

Joshua A. Aughenbaugh, 25, of Seven Springs Road, Batavia, is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree and driving while intoxicated. He was arrested at 2:12 a.m. Nov. 10 on Ross Street in Batavia. He was released to a sober third party and is due in Batavia City Court on Nov. 19. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Post, assisted by Officer Arick Perkins.

Aaron David Mee, 56, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree and trespass. Mee was arrested at 3:52 p.m. Nov. 5 in the 8900 block of Alexander Road (Route 98) in Batavia following the investigation of a trepass complaint. He was issued appearance tickets and is due in Batavia Town Court on Nov. 25. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Joshua Brabon, assisted by Deputy Eric Meyer.

Salvatore M. Tornabene, 27, of Montclair Avenue, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. At 3:14 p.m. on Nov. 11 Tornabene was arrested for violating an order of protection. He is accused of being at the residence of a protected party on Ross Street in Batavia at 2:54 p.m. on Nov. 11. He was released with an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court today (Nov. 12). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Miah Stevens, assisted by Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Devon A. Wright, 18, of Highland Park, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. Wright was arrested and arraigned in Batavia City Court Nov. 10 after a complaint alleging the violation of an order of protection at 8:16 p.m. on Nov. 5 on Harvester Avenue. Wright was due in city court today (Nov. 12) to answer the charge. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Stephen Quider.

Derrick Roy Kio, 28, or Minard Road, Portageville, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. He was arrested at 4:50 p.m. on Nov. 9 for allegedly violating a court order of protection on Oct. 8 on West Main Street Road in Batavia. He was released on an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia Town Court on Nov. 14. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore.

Robert Leon Murray, 43, of Bay Lane, Cheektowaga, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. Murray was arrested for allegedly having third-party contact with a protected person at 4:24 p.m. on Sept. 10 on Sumner Road in Darien, in violation of an order of protection. He is due in Darien Town Court on Nov. 19. The  case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kevin McCarthy.

Frank James Capen, 27, of Church Street, Medina, is charged with petit larceny and sixth-degree conspiracy. He was arrested Nov. 10 following the investigation of a larceny at Kohl's department store in Batavia at 4:55 p.m. on Sept. 8. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia Town Court on Nov. 28. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Joshua Brabon.

Jakob M. Kosiorek, 26, of Harvester Avenue, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. He was arrested at 3:34 p.m. on Nov. 6 following a shoplifting investigation at a business on East Main Street in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket and was due in Batavia City Court today (Nov. 12). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot, assisted by Officer Kevin DeFelice.

Morgan Lee Cox, 27, of Hutchins Place, Batavia, is charged with tampering with physical evidence and promoting prison contraband in the second degree. Following an investigation at the Genesee County Jail, Cox was arrested at 2 p.m. on Nov. 4. He allegedly possessed contraband inside the jail and attempted to conceal it from jail staff. He was due in Batavia City Court Nov. 5. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kyle Krzemien, assisted by Deputy Joshua Brabon.

Benjamin Santiago Jr., 30, of South Lyon Street, Batavia, is charged with promoting prison contraband in the second degree. On Nov. 4, following an investigation at the Genesee County Jail, Santiago was arrested at 2 p.m. on Nov. 4. He was due in Batavia City Court on Nov. 5. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kyle Krzemien, assisted by Deputy Joshua Brabon.

Scott Eric Hodgins, 55, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with possession of contraband while in prison. On Nov. 4, following an investigation of drug paraphernalia located in the Genesee County Jail, Hodgins was arrested at 5:04 p.m. on Nov. 4. He was issued an appearance ticket and was due in Batavia City Court on Nov. 5. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kyle Krzemien.

Rebecca S. Kepner, 36, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with failure to appear after an appearance ticket was served. She was arrested at 6:57 a.m. on Nov. 9 at her residence on Bank Street and released on her own recognizance. She was due in Batavia City Court today (Nov. 12). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Adam Tucker, assisted by Officer Arick Perkins.

Devon Paul Leach, 25, of Torrey Road, Bethany, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana in the second degree. Leach was arrested following a traffic stop at 12:56 a.m. on Nov. 6 on East Main Street in Batavia. Leach was released on an appearance ticket and was due in Batavia Cioty Court today (Nov. 12). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Post, assisted by Officer Peter Flanagan.

GC Democrats invite public to meet local candidates Saturday, celebrate first day of early voting

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee County Democratic Committee invites the community to celebrate early voting and meet their local candidates. 

On Saturday, Oct. 26th, the Genesee County Democratic Committee invites the community to celebrate early voting and meet their local candidates. The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the War of 1812 Bicentennial Peace Garden. It is located at 117-123 W. Main St. in Batavia. 

“For the first time in history, voters in New York State have the opportunity to vote early, and it’s a really big deal,” said City of Batavia Democratic Chair, Erica Donnell. “Voting rights activists have been fighting for this for a very long time and now that we have a Democratic majority in Albany, we finally got the job done.

"The first day of early voting is October 26th so we felt that would be a great day for our candidates to get together with voters and celebrate this accomplishment.” 

For more information about early voting visit geneseedemocrats.net

Voters will also have the opportunity to meet some of the endorsed Democratic candidates running for office this year. 

Chair of the Genesee County Democrats and Darien Town Board Member Michael Plitt says, “National politics seem to suck all of the oxygen out of the room these days, but if you really want to participate in democracy, the local level is the place to do it.

"When I knock on doors I like talking to voters about the things in their community that matters to them and where their vote can really make a difference.”

Participating candidates include City Court Judge candidate Benjamin Bonarigo, Ward 3 City Council candidate Nick Russo, Ward 5 City Council candidate Sammy DiSalvo, Darien Town Board Member Plitt, and others. Light refreshments will be provided.

Grand Jury: Woman accused of driving drunk with five children in the vehicle

By Billie Owens

Michele R. Williams is indicted for the crime of aggravated driving while intoxicated with a child in the vehicle, which is a Class E felony. It is alleged that on May 24 in the Town of Darien that Williams drove a 2013 Chevrolet on Route 77 while having a BAC of .08 percent or more and while a child age 15 or less was a passenger. In count two, Williams is accused of aggravated DWI with a child as passenger, a Class E felony, also on May 24. In counts three and four, Williams is accused of the same crimes, respectively, for having a second child age 15 or less in the vehicle. In counts five and six, Williams is accused of the same crimes, respectively, for having a third child age 15 or less in the vehicle. In counts seven and eight, Williams is accused of the same crimes, respectively, for having a fourth child age 15 or less in the vehicle​. In counts nine and 10, Williams is accused of the same crimes, respectively, for having a fifth child age 15 or less in the vehicle​. In count 11, Williams is accused of following another vehicle too closely, a vehicle and traffic violation, without having due regard for the speed to the vehicle, the traffic or the condition of the roadway.

Taraleen T. Tundo is indicted for the crime of aggravated driving while intoxicated, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on May 1 in the Town of Stafford that Tundo drove a 2004 Ford on Route 5 while her ability to do so was impaired by the conbined influence of drugs and while a child age 15 or less was a passenger. In count two, Tundo is accused of driving left of pavement markings the same day, a vehicle and traffic violation. In count three, she is accused of criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count three that Tundo knowingly possessed gelatin capsules, glassine envelopes, vials, capsules or other material suitable for packaging individual quantities or narcotic drugs.

Brian K. Dyer is indicted for the crime of first-degree assault, a Class B violent felony. It is alleged that on July 5 in the City of Batavia that Dyer intended to, and did, cause serious physical injury to another person by means of a dangerous instrument -- a concrete statue. In count two, Dyer is accused of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a Class D felony, for possessing a dangerous instrument -- a concrete statue -- with the intent to use it unlawfully against another person.

Patrick J. Gonzales is indicted for the crime of third-degress burglary, a Class D felony. On March 16, 2017, Gonzales allegedly knowingly entered a building on Lake Street in the Town of Le Roy with the intent to commit a crime. In count two, he is accused of third-degree grand larceny, also a Class D felony, for allegedly stealing property with a value in excess of $3,000 -- a safe and personal property valued at about $3,702.50 in U.S. currency.

Sybil D. Davis is indicted for the crime of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony. It is alleged that on April 3 in the Town of Le Roy that Davis drove a 2001 Dodge on Route 19 while her license was suspended or revoked by authorities and while she was under the influence of a drug or alcohol. In count two, she is accused of driving that day while her ability was impaired by the combined influence of drugs or alcohol, as a misdemeanor. In count three, Davis is accused of reckless driving, as a misdemeanor, for driving that day in a manner that unreasonably interfered with the free and proper use of the roadway or unreasonably endangered users of the roadway. In count three, Davis is accused of reckless driving for crossing the center line and driving into the path of an oncoming vehicle in the Town of Pavilion and/or Le Roy that was operating lawfully; the affected vehicle had to engage in evasive manuevers in order to avoid a collision. In count four, Davis is accused of reckless driving for crossing the center line and driving into the path of an oncoming vehicle in the Town of Le Roy that was operating lawfully; the affected vehicle had to engage in evasive manuevers in order to avoid a collision. In count five, Davis is accused of reckless driving for crossing the center line and driving into the path of an oncoming vehicle in the Village of Le Roy that was operating lawfully; the affected vehicle had to engage in evasive manuevers in order to avoid a collision. In count six, Davis is accused of attempted escape in the third degree, a Class B misdemeanor, for allegedly attempting to escape from custody on April 3 in the Town of Le Roy.

Joseph L. Ruise is indicted for criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on June 21 in the City of Batavia that Ruise knowingly possessed cocaine with the intent to sell it. In count two, Ruise is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth degree, a Class C felony. In count two, he is accused of knowingly and unlawfully possessing one or more preparations, compounds or mixtures containing the narcotic drug cocaine and these had an aggragate weight of one-eighth ounce or more. In count three, Ruise is indicted for the crime of criminally using drug paraphernalia in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count three that on the same day, Ruise knowlingly possessed gelatin capsules, glassine envelopes, vials, capsules or other material suitable for packaging individual quantities of narcotic drugs.

Christopher A. Ridgeway is indicted for the crime of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a Class B felony. It is alleged that on June 27 in the City of Batavia that Ridgeway knowingly and unlawfully possessed cocaine with the intent to sell it. In count two, he is accused of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a Class A misdemeanor. It is alleged in count two that on the same day, Ridgeway knowingly and unlawfully possessed alprazolam.

Medicare open enrollment is Oct. 15 through Dec. 7

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Genesee County Office for the Aging will, once again, be holding Medicare open enrollment vendor fairs for members of the community.

These vendor fairs will have representation from local Medicare Advantage insurance companies, AARP Supplemental, and EPIC where you can ask questions and change your plan, should you decide to do so.

HIICAP counselors from the Office for the Aging, who specialize in Medicare, will also be available to give you an unbiased look at your options before you speak to a sales agent.

Volunteers will also be available assisting those wishing to sign up for a MyMedicare.gov account.

All vendor fairs run from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. For questions call (585) 343-1611.

Thursday, Oct. 17th 

  • Alabama Fire Hall, 2230 Judge Road, Alabama 

Tuesday, Nov. 5th 

  • Our Lady of Mercy Gym, 44 Lake St., Le Roy

Wednesday, Nov. 20th 

  • Darien Center Fire Hall, 10537 Alleghany Road, Darien Center

Tuesday, Dec. 3rd 

  • First United Methodist Church of Batavia, 8221 Lewiston Road, Batavia

Law and Order: Lockport woman accused of breaking concertgoer's jaw at Darien Lake

By Billie Owens

Lauren Yvette Smith, 20, of Strauss Road, Lockport, is charged with second-degree assault. At 6 p.m. on Oct. 6, Smith was arrested after an investigation of an assault complaint at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center during the Meek Mill and Future concert. She allegedly punched a female victim in the face and broke her jaw. Smith was arraigned in Darien Town Court then released on her own recognizance. She is due back in Darien Town Court on Oct. 17. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Erik Andre, assisted by Deputy Chamoun Nicholas.

Zachary V.D. Seeley, 22, of Lyman Road, Bergen, is charged with: Aggravated criminal contempt; aggravated family offense; and endangering the welfare of a child. On Oct. 6 at 9:24 p.m., following an investigation, Seeley was arrested. He allegedly violated a stay away order of protection and has previously been convicted of first-degree criminal contempt. During the incident at a motel on West Main Street Road in Batavia, Seeley allegedly threw a 16 oz. Dr. Pepper soda pop bottle at a child. Seeley was apprehended at a separate location and arraigned in Town of Batavia Court. He was put in jail on $5,000 cash bail or bond. He is due in Town of Batavia Court on Oct. 21. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Nicholas Chamoun, assisted by Deputy Erik Andre.

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