Press release:

Amid the opening up of the Small Business Administration (SBA) "Save Our Stages" online application for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant, U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer confirms about 6,000 applications have already been filed in the first five hours of the program, with more than 8,000 additional applications being worked on.

He is urging New York stages and other venues and cultural institutions to ready their paperwork, log on to the SBA.gov website for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program and file an application for their relief.  

“Knowing the SBA has already received 6,000 applications, with over 8,000 additional requests in the works, for stages and venue relief shows both the need that exists, but also the desire to bring back a variety of venues, entertainment and arts options that make New York one of the greatest states – and strongest economies,” Senator Schumer said. “So, I am urging New York stages to ready their documents, log onto the SBA site and file applications for their relief. The shows will go on!”

Schumer successfully fought to include $15 billion in the end-of-year COVID-19 relief bill in December for the "Save Our Stages" (SOS) program to provide national assistance for independent live venue operators, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions such as live performing arts organizations and museums that have been significantly impacted by the economic effects of the COVID-19 crisis.

The American Rescue Plan that passed into law in March included an additional $1.25 billion for the program following Schumer’s efforts to add more money to the national pot. Schumer says that New York will receive the lion’s share of the total national pot and that the legislation will provide temporary relief not only to the venues, but also to the employees, promoters, managers, producers, and entertainers that support them.

Specifically, the COVID relief package created a new Small Business Administration (SBA) grant program which independent live venue operators, promoters, producers, talent representatives, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions are eligible for.

To be eligible, an entity must have experienced at least 25 percent lost revenue due to COVID-19. Schumer said the SBA grants are designed to provide up to six months of financial support that could be used to keep employees paid and New York’s prized cultural hubs open for business.

“Independent venues, like theaters and concert halls, are the beating heart of New York’s cultural life and a driving force across our economy,” Schumer said. “Our local stages, from those on Broadway to the ones in Binghamton, Buffalo, and everywhere in between, were among the first to shut down at the start of the pandemic, are struggling to stay afloat, and will be among the last to fully reopen—so they need this SOS relief, and I want to make sure they apply.” 

Specifically, the new program includes the following components:

• Creates a new grant program at the Small Business Administration to provide assistance to independent live venue operators, promoters, producers, talent representatives, independent movie theaters, and cultural institutions.
• Permits recipients to use grants for various costs, including those associated with COVID-19:

                 -- Rent, utilities, mortgage obligations, payments to contractors, regular maintenance, administrative costs, taxes, operating leases; and

                 -- PPE procurement, capital expenditures related to meeting state, local, or federal social distancing guidelines.

• Grants are narrowly targeted and appropriately calculated to provide 6 months of operating assistance for small and independent live venue operators and their industry partners.

                 -- Grants are equal to the lesser of 45 percent of gross revenue during 2019; or

                 -- $10 million.

• To ensure the hardest hit of eligible applicants receive assistance, there are two priority application periods. The first 14 days, only eligible entities that have lost more than 90 percent of gross revenue can apply. The next 14 days, only eligible entities that have lost more than 70 percent can apply. A reserve of 20 percent of overall appropriated funds, $3 billion out of the $15 billion provided, will remain available for all other eligible entities to apply for after 28 days.
• There is a $2 billion set-aside of funds for eligible entities with 50 or fewer employees to ensure smaller applicants are not left out.
• An entity is still eligible for a grant if they have received a PPP loan prior to implementation of the program, but the entity may not receive a PPP loan and a grant after implementation of the program.

More details on the SBA program, including the application, can be found here.

From Sen. Ed Rath (NYS 61st):

"I wanted to update you on a dangerous proposal that has come to light in Albany. Albany Democrats are proposing a massive new tax on gasoline, an estimated 55 cent-per-gallon tax on New Yorkers at the pump. This is on top of the billions in news taxes included in this year's budget.

"This proposed legislation does not just increase the prices at the pump, it will also increase the cost of natural gas heating for homes by 25 percent. New Yorkers already pay enough to fill their cars and heat their homes; this is only going to add to the already overly burdensome taxes we have in our State. This bill, like many others, will disproportionately hurt Upstate and have negative consequences on our communities. 

"As we all know, many New Yorkers are facing some of the hardest times as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic; to increase taxes even further on necessary goods and services is unconscionable. We should be helping our hard-working taxpayers and businesses, not increase their already high costs of living and doing business in New York State."

Press release:

Northgate Free Methodist Church will once again be holding a Rummage Sale that will be hosted at Northgate’s South Campus, located at 350 Bank St., Batavia.

The sale will take place Friday, May 7 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. and Saturday, May 8 from 8 a.m. - 12.p.m.

Donations were collected, sorted, and priced accordingly, all by a volunteer group out of Northgate.

All proceeds from this Rummage Sale will be donated to Northgate’s "Connected Community in Gahanda, Rwanda, Africa. Please consider joining Northgate for this sale and contributing to the livelihoods of those in Gahanda, Rwanda.

For further information, please contact the Northgate office at (585)343-4011 or email office@northgatefmc.com.

Press release:

Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel is pleased to announce the following additions to the upcoming Rockin’ the Downs Summer Concert Series.

Now kicking off the series on Friday June 11^th is Almost Queen. The Ultimate Queen Tribute show delivers a live performance, showcasing signature four part harmonies and intricate musical interludes. Donning genuine costumes, Almost Queen recaptures the live energy and precision that is the Queen experience.

Closing the Summer Concert Series now on Aug. 27th will be American rock band The Spin Doctors, who will be making their Batavia Downs debut. Forming in the late '80s, this band went on to commercial success with chart topping hits like "Two Princes" and "Little Miss Can't Be Wrong" from their smash hit album "Pocket Full of Kryptonite."

These two concerts are being put on in conjunction with Buffalo-based twenty6 Productions. 

“We are excited to begin working with Batavia Downs," said CEO and Founder of twenty6 Productions, Josh Holtzman. “We know people have been waiting for the return of live events and we’re looking forward to putting on great shows at Batavia Downs while adhering to all the safety measures instituted by New York State.”

As per guidance from New York State, capacity for all concerts at this time will be 2,500 ticket holders but more tickets will be added if capacity increases. All concertgoers MUST show proof of:

• A negative PCR COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of show time;

OR

• A negative Antigen COVID-19 test within six hours of show time;

OR

• Must show proof of completed immunization (14 days since final vaccination prior to event date).

There will be a Rapid Antigen test site in the parking lot the day of the concerts in order to allow ticket holders to get a rapid test on event dates. For concertgoers age 21+ with tickets each test costs $34.95. (For any New Yorker age 18 and up without a concert ticket, the rapid test costs $65.)

It his highly recommended that concertgoers get a vaccine or test prior to concert date in order to avoid any wait times on the day of the show. Concertgoers are responsible for scheduling and paying for any tests.

As per New York State Regulations, pairs of seats will be 6 feet apart and masks must be worn unless a person is seated and eating or drinking.

Beginning at 8 a.m. on Thursday, April 29^th, tickets for all concerts already announced will be available at www.BataviaConcerts.com. Tickets will be available for purchase at Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel at the Lucky Treasures Gift Shop located in the lobby ONLY on concert days if any tickets remain unsold on concert date.

Due to limited capacity, concert attendees MUST BE 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER. A limit of four tickets purchased per person will be enforced.

If between now and the concert date the regulations change, then Batavia Downs will adopt any modifications. Ticket holders are encouraged to visit www.bataviadownsgaming.com or their social media pages to stay up to date on any new information.

Press release:

In light of the Governor’s press conference today, the Genesee County Ag Society and its volunteers that make the Genesee County Fair possible, have been receiving an abundance of emails and phone calls questioning whether we will be able to hold the Genesee County Fair for 2021.

At this time, while it is promising that the State Fair will go ahead with planning for the 2021 season, we, the county fairs, have not been given any guidance as to what or how we should be planning for Fair Season. 

The Genesee County Ag Society volunteers have been moving ahead with plans for the Genesee County Fair, to be held July 24-31.

In 2020, we were able to hold the Livestock shows for our youth and did so successfully. We are hoping to continue with that in 2021. We are looking to expand upon what we were able to do in 2020, but please know that we are working closely with Genesee County officials and our Genesee County Health Department so that we can keep our attendees safe while adhering to New York State Guidelines. 

We are hoping that, in the near future, the Governor and his office will be addressing how the county fairs should proceed so that we can move forward with some great entertainment and Livestock shows for our community.

Stay tuned, as we wish to keep the community and our supporters updated on how we are able to proceed with our Genesee County Fair July 24-31.

The implementation of New York’s recently passed legislation allowing the recreational use of marijuana for residents 21 and over is a year or two away, but the Batavia City Council believes it’s not too soon to gather as much information as possible and to gauge the pulse of its citizens.

At their Conference Meeting tonight at City Hall, Council members and City Attorney George Van Nest engaged in a 33-minute back-and-forth discussion about the new state law, officially known as the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act.

Council Member Robert Bialkowski asked to have the topic placed on the agenda and Batavian Sammy DiSalvo, during the public comments portion of the meeting, said he wanted to know if the board has taken a position – either for it or against it.

“With the passage of the MRTA about three or four weeks ago, municipalities have until December 31^st of this year to opt out of allowing – I think it’s either the sale or places to pop up to either use drugs, specifically pot, in a recreational kind of way,” DiSalvo said. “Is the city leaning toward banning all of that? Because you can opt out up until December 31^st -- after December 31^st you can no longer opt out, but can opt back in.”

Van Nest concurred with that assessment, adding that municipalities can opt out “through a local law adoption” and they have to do so before the end of 2021.

“If that local law is filed, basically it doesn’t become effective for 45 days, giving the public to file a referendum or a petition seeking to have that question brought before the voters,” he said. “So, essentially what is required is a trigger of 10 percent of the electorate – the voters for the last electorate, rather – and then, if a sufficient petition is filed with sufficient numbers, the question of whether or not the opt out would go before the public in a subsequent election.”

Bialkowski kicked off the discussion, inquiring about the effects of secondhand smoke from marijuana on children. That prompted Council President Eugene Jankowski Jr. to point out that, like cigarettes, marijuana use would not be allowed at city parks. But, under the new law, adults would be free to smoke cannabis in their homes and on a public street.

Jankowski said he learned from a webinar with the New York Conference of Mayors that businesses would be limited to being either a grower, seller or an on-premise place of consumption. He added that the state has set up a Cannabis Control Board, a five-member group that will be working with an advisory committee to create the Office of Cannabis Management.

According to published reports, the CCB is expected to be in place within a few months, and will get the process rolling for the granting of licenses to dealers and formulating rules and regulations.

After Council Member Al McGinnis said that federal laws on marijuana will supersede state laws, specifically mentioning federally operated housing and the inability to purchase a gun, Jankowski said he thought it would be wise to wait until regulations are adopted and then for Council to direct City Manager Rachael Tabelski to “get involved in the code enforcement planning process.”

Jankowski said he believed the city would be limited in what it could do, other than define the location of a dispensary and possibly the hours of operation. He said he liked the idea that the law adds to the control, regulation and safety aspects of marijuana, which would stop juveniles from getting their hands on it.

He also indicated that he was keen about the fact that municipalities with a dispensary will receive 3 percent of a 13-percent excise tax on marijuana sales.

Jankowski’s contention was that if Batavia was to opt out, a dispensary could be set up just outside the city limits and the city would miss out on revenue that could go toward increased police patrols or other measures to mitigate any negative effects of legalized pot smoking.

Council Member Rose Mary Christian wasn’t buying that reasoning, however. She said that it’s “absolutely correct that it (marijuana) is already out there” and the law was passed only because the state needs the money.

“They really don’t give a damn about kids or adults, and the fact that they would be loaded all the time and cause accidents like they are in the state of Colorado,” she said, calling for Council to opt out as soon as possible.

Van Nest then weighed in, noting that while the use is authorized at this point, the actual sales likely won’t happen until 2022 or 2023 as it will take that long to set up the regulating agencies and parameters concerning consumption, growing and sales. The attorney also said that cannabis will be treated in the same manner as cigarettes and vaping when it comes to secondhand smoke.

“Relative to the zoning issue, it’s going to be up to the municipalities whether or not they want to regulate time, place and manner,” he said.

Jankowski said he was advised that people will not be able to grow marijuana plants until all the regulations are in force.

“I think a lot of people are thinking, ‘Hey, in a couple of months I’ll have my own supply – it’s legal now.' But technically, they’re not allowed to grow it because if you grow it and give it away … it becomes a violation …,” he said.

The council president then asked his colleagues how they felt about opting out.

Christian said she was in favor of that, while Bialkowski brought up the possibility of a public hearing to get residents’ opinions. Van Nest said no to a public hearing but stated that a public information meeting would be in order.

After Jankowski said an opt out wouldn’t really solve anything because people could purchase marijuana and transport it back to the city, Christian said she wasn’t worried about other areas, just the kids in Batavia.

Jankowski said it wasn’t his responsibility to tell adults how to live their lives before Bialkowski suggested having someone from the outside – a professional – come to a Council meeting to educate the board members.

Again, on the opt out, Jankowski said, “I personally think it’s a waste of time and we’re cutting ourselves short by not at least regulating it and keeping an eye on it, and keeping it close so we can pay attention to what’s going on. If we have a problem, then at least we have some money (from the excise tax) to compensate for that problem."

Council members Patti Pacino and Kathleen Briggs said they would support “an expert” coming in to advise them about the provisions of the law, leading Jankowski to say he didn’t want to have 500 people at a meeting with half against it and half for it, “and not really resolving anything.”

Council Member John Canale compared the situation to that of alcohol sales, concluding that opting out won’t accomplish much by disallowing sales in the city because people will “walk in and buy it (pot) and walk out with a bag in their hand.”

Canale then suggested getting public input, asking residents to contact their councilperson with their thoughts on the matter. He added that he didn’t think there will be much of an outcry either way.

In the end, Jankowski said the issue would be “tabled for now” and reconsidered when Council hears more from the state. He then asked Tabelski to keep Council informed as new developments occur, once again mentioning that the city would receive 3 percent of the excise tax generated by cannabis sales.

New York State officials are indicating that marijuana sales are expected to generate $350 million in revenue to the state per year, and around 50,000 jobs will be created.

Previously: Marijuana use debate takes new twist now that NYS has legalized recreational use for adults

During a Special Business Meeting after the Conference Meeting, City Council passed resolutions, as follows:

• Hiring of a police officer and two firefighters and funding special police details after learning that an additional $262,656 was coming to the city in state Aid and Incentives for Municipalities’ funding. Tabelski noted “the stability of AIM money” in her recommendation to unfreeze these positions, which were left vacant during budget deliberations.

• Contracting with Keeler Construction Co. Inc., of Albion, to replace an old and inefficient air header – a key component for providing oxygen back into the ponds to digest waste at the wastewater treatment plant. The amount of the contract is $777,425. The air header replacement is part of a $1 million wastewater treatment plant project.

• Applying for a grant for $328,000 from the Northern Border Regional Commission, which would cover 80 percent of the cost to upgrade water lines on Bank Street between Main Street and Washington Avenue in support of future development projects as well as improving water pressure for fire suppression. The City would be responsible for 20 percent – or $82,000 – of the project’s total cost.

Press release:

Genesee County is reporting 22 new positive cases of COVID-19 from the weekend and today. The County is having IT issues and the breakdown will be updated as soon as the issue is fixed, hopefully in the next day.

• The new positive cases reside in the:
  • West Region (Alabama, Darien, Pembroke)
  • Central Region (Alexander, Batavia, Bethany, Elba, Oakfield) 
  • East Region (Bergen, Byron, Le Roy, Pavilion, Stafford) 
• One of the new positive individuals was a resident of the NYS Veterans Home.

 

Orleans County reporting 30 new positive cases of COVID-19.  

• The positive cases reside in the:
  • West Region (Yates, Ridgeway, Shelby)
  • Central Region (Carlton, Gaines, Albion, Barre)
  • East Region (Kendall, Murray, Clarendon)
• The individuals are in their 0-19s, 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s and 80s.
• Three of the current positive individuals were on mandatory quarantine prior to testing positive
• Thirty-eight of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been removed from the isolation list.
• Three of the current positive individuals are hospitalized.
• Two of the new positive individuals are inmates at the Albion Correctional Facility.

Press release:

OurBus announced today a new cooperation with family-owned transportation company Niagara Scenic Tours to offer daily intercity bus service linking Batavia with seven cities in New York and one in Pennsylvania. The route goes through Niagara Falls, Buffalo, Batavia, Geneseo, Corning, Elmira, and in Pennsylvania -- Sayre, en route to New York City, starting May 12.

Also, passengers can make connections to points all across New York and New Jersey with stops at the Greater Binghamton Transportation Center in Binghamton and Bridge Plaza in Fort Lee, N.J. 

OurBus’ technology and service empowers bus companies and local communities alike to increase regional transportation options, connecting people to jobs, medical appointments, and education in larger cities.

Niagara Scenic Tours’ high-end, charter-style motorcoaches will be used on the route, equipped with wifi, power outlets, and overhead storage. Passengers can book rides instantly, track the bus in real time, and rest assured with the best customer service in the industry, as reflected in OurBus’ 4.4/5 star rating from more than 8,000 riders. 

“OurBus believes that movement is essential to human nature. And as people get vaccinated, they can finally travel to see their friends and family,” commented OurBus cofounder Axel Hellman. “This route will help people see those familiar faces as well as get back to work and school.”

Tickets are sold on OurBus.com or on the OurBus App, eliminating the hassles of buying paper tickets. OurBus rides can be cancelled or rescheduled without fees. Fares to New York start at $45, and vary based on demand. Rates for shorter trips to points within Western New York are as little as $7.

Starting May 12, buses to New York City depart daily from the Citgo station on Park Road in Batavia at 7:30 a.m.

“Our company has been serving the region for over 45 years with our charter and tour services," said Niagara Scenic Tours’ Vice President Hadley Bos-Fisher. "We are thrilled to offer a daily, express bus route to meet the transportation needs of our community.”

CDC guidelines for travel are in place, including enhanced cleaning procedures. Hand sanitizer is available on the bus, and passengers must wear a mask covering the mouth and nose at all times. 

About OurBus

Rally and OurBus together represent the leading marketplace for regional travel in the United States. Founded in 2016, OurBus has a network of intercity services that connect 100+ locations. With their customer-first approach they disrupt the legacy incumbent companies and grow the intercity transportation market.

Search schedules and buy tickets at ourbus.com or the app. OurBus does not own or operate any buses, and employs no drivers or mechanics. Access brand guidelines, logos and media files here.

NIAGARA SCENIC TOURS, a locally owned and operated business, offers the personal touch that differentiates us from the competition. We have been serving the Western New York community and beyond for more than 45 years. Today, the company services transportation and travel needs throughout the greater Western New York area including the Greater Buffalo/Niagara region, Greater Rochester area, as well as Olean and Southern Tier New York State and Northwest Pennsylvania.

From the Village of Le Roy Police Department:

Jared S. McDonald, 27, of South Street Road, Pavilion, was arrested by the Le Roy Police Department on April 23, following the execution of a Search Warrant.

McDonald was charged with grand larceny in the second degree, a Class C felony, and coercion in the first degree, a Class D Felony.

As a result of the Search Warrant, McDonald is also facing several from the Genesee County Drug Task Force, including: multiple counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance with the intent to sell in the fifth degree; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the in the seventh degree; criminal possession of an assault weapon in the third degree; criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree; and criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree.

On April 19 the Le Roy Police Department received a complaint of property taken by means of extortion on April 14. It is alleged that the defendant placed the victim in fear of physical injury if the victim did not sign various items of property over to him. 

During the investigation, it was allegedly discovered that the stolen property was still in McDonald’s possession at his residence in Pavilion. Further investigation led officers to believe that McDonald was selling controlled substances out of his residence and was also in possession of firearms.

A Search Warrant was executed on April 23 at McDonald’s residence, due to items McDonald was believed to be possession of. The Le Roy Police Department was assisted by the New York State Police Special Operations Response Team, members of the Genesee County Drug Task Force, and members of the New York State Police Community Narcotics Enforcement Team.

McDonald was found to allegedly be in possession of a quantity suspected methamphetamine, psilocybin mushrooms ('shrooms), lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), other controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, firearms, and the property that was previously reported taken from the victim.

Some of the offenses McDonald was charged with did qualify for prearraignment detention under the NYS Justice Reform Act. The District Attorney’s Office was contacted for a bail recommendation due to the level of the offenses. It was advised that McDonald should be jailed on $2,500 cash bail, $5,000 bond, or $20,000 partially secured bond.

McDonald was arraigned in court (unspecified) by Justice Randy Baker then released under supervision of Genesee Justice. He is to return to court on June 16 to answer to the charges.

Press release:

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) have first-dose Moderna vaccination clinics with appointments available targeting those who are 18 and older and open for any New York State individuals who reside, work or study in the state.

“We have first-dose Moderna vaccination clinics scheduled on Tuesday, April 27^th at the Ridgeway Fire Hall, Route 104, Medina; and on Wednesday, April 28^th at the Athletic Center at Genesee Communiyt College Batavia Campus Center,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health director for GO Health.

“These clinics are open to anyone who is 18 and older. We want to see all of these clinics filled up with those who can also commit to returning for the second dose of the Moderna vaccine 28 days later."

Walk-ins will be accepted at both clinics from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Currently in New York, being fully vaccinated will begin to offer opportunities that have been limited for the past year. Anyone who is fully vaccinated (two weeks after the J&J vaccine or the second dose of Pfizer and Moderna) will be able to participate in various activities without having to be tested for entry for events such as professional sports, weddings with more than 100 guests, proms, graduations and more.

Also, when fully vaccinated, the individual will not have to quarantine if they are exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Most importantly, you are protecting your health along with others you come in contact with.  

Visit the vaccination webpage at https://bit.ly/GOHealthVaccine. Choose either the GCC Moderna Clinic or the Orleans Moderna Clinic button and follow the directions. Keep the link handy, as there will be other clinics moving forward.

The buttons are live when we have that particular vaccine available. If the clinic is full or we do not have vaccine, it will show "No Appointments Available." Please share this information with family, friends, coworkers and social groups.

For those who do not have internet they can call the GO Health Vaccine Registration Help Lines:

Genesee: (585) 815-7168

Orleans: (585) 589-3170

These lines are ONLY to make vaccine appointments, are not able to answer COVID-19-related questions AND are not associated with either Health Department.

If you are interested in making an appointment to get your COVID-19 vaccination, now is the time to do it locally!

If you are a business/organization, have 50 or more people that is interested in hosting a vaccination clinic at your location, please fill out the survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GOHealthPopUpVaccineClinic

For those who are seeking testing, both health departments provide limited free rapid testing for those without symptoms at the respective Health Departments. For Genesee County, rapid test drive-through clinics are scheduled for April 27^th and 29^th at County Building #2, 3837 W. Main Street Road, Batavia. For Orleans County, rapid test clinics are scheduled for April 28^th and 30^th at the Orleans County Health Department at 14016 Route 31 West, Albion.

To register for testing go to the GO Health testing page: https://orleanscountyny.org/covid19testing/ and choose your preferred clinic location. Follow the directions.

The Blue Devils ran away from Newark at Van Detta Stadium on Saturday evening to secure a shot at another section title.

The final score, 43-13.

They next play Honeoye Fall/Lima at 7 p.m., Saturday, at HFL.

Terrez Smith scored on touchdown runs of 78 and 85 yards along with a 16-yard scamper and gained a total of 153 yards on 16 carries. Jesse Reinhart was 3-6 passing for 117 yards and two TDs. Tyler Budziniack gained 82 yards on his two TD receptions.

On defense, Kaden Marucci had 14 tackles. Mathew McWethy, seven, Dan Saeva, six, including a tackle for a safety, and Jayden Osborne had six. Reinhart had an interception.

Photos by Jim Burns. For more, click here.

The Alexander Trojans defeated Oakfield-Alabama/Elba is a Section V playoff game at Van Detta Stadium on Saturday without scoring a touchdown. 

Eric Cline kicked field goals of 26, 23, and 37-yards to secure the victory.

Head Coach Tim Sawyer said his team came into the game as the underdog and road not just Cline's leg to victory, but defense, special teams, and offensive ball control all kicked in when needed to hold OAE at bay.

The Trojans will play next week in their fifth-straight Section V championship game.

"Defensive Coordinator Matt McCracken dialed up another big defensive game plan and the players performed it to a 'T,' " Sawyer said.

With eight seconds left in the game, OAE had a chance to turn the tables on Alexander with its own field goal attempt but the kick was blocked by Devin Dean.

Brayden Woods ran 21 times for 69 yards, Nick Kramer led the Trojans in rushing with 93 yards on 18 carries. Kramer was 2-3 passing on the day.

On defense, Spencer Wuest had two fumble recoveries and Kramer added an interception in the fourth quarter to stall out an OEA drive. Kramer led the Trojans with 10 tackles. Jake Laney had eight tackles. Dean had eight tackles.

Alexander meets Avon next week for the Class D sectional title.

For OAE, QB Bodie Hyde was 4-5 passing for 76 tards. He ran six times for 114 yards and a touchdown. Ty Mott, 20 carries, 91 yards. On defense, Peyton Yasses, 13 tackles. Dontrell Jenkins, seven tackles, a sack, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Kaden Cusmano, eight tackles and a sack.

"Hats off to Alexander today," said OAE Head Coach Tyler Winter. "They won the turnover battle and the battle at the line of scrimmage. It is very difficult to win a football game when you are 0-2 in those two categories. We had an opportunity to win it at the end, but we couldn't make enough big plays when it counted. 

"All in all, I feel that this was a huge first season back in 11-man football," he added. "These boys did a ton of great things all year. Today was obviously not the outcome that any of us wanted. This senior class can hold their heads high and be proud of their careers, while the underclassmen can use today as a valuable learning experience for the future. We'll be back."

Photos by Kristin Smith. For more, click here.

A tanker and a van are reportedly involved in a motor-vehicle accident in the area of 7536 Sandhill Road, Alabama.

The tanker normally carries water but is empty right now. It is overturned. The driver is out and walking around.

A woman driving the van, which is in a ditch, is believed to be injured.

Alabama fire and Mercy EMS dispatched.

UPDATE 3:12 p.m.: Patient extricated.

From Caryn Leigh Wood, IT support aide, BHS Musical & Drama director:

Per several requests this morning -- VIDEO RENTAL HAS BEEN EXTENDED FOR VIEWING "SISTER ACT"!

Rent the streamed video HERE!

Also be sure to check out the SHOW PROGRAM by clicking the button in the lower left corner of the online rental portal.

The steps for rental include clicking the purple bar in the middle of the page that says rent video, then click on the Current Events tab on the next page that opens, and finally click the Rent Video button under the poster image. You have the option to do single or multiple devices as well. An access code will be emailed to you. 

Once you have begun viewing it, you will have 48 hours to complete the video. RENTAL IS NOW AVAILABLE UNTIL WEDNESDAY NIGHT!

Help support this AMAZING group of students by watching their show in the comfort of your own home! You won't be disappointed!

THANK YOU!

Caryn

Previously: For BHS Production Club, the show must go on with 'Sister Act'

Charles Tomaszewski, 58, (inset photo right) no address provided, was arrested at 1 a.m. on April 15 on Redfield Parkway, Batavia, following an investigation into a domestic incident. Tomaszewski is charged with unlawful imprisonment in the second degree; first-degree sexual abuse; and second-degree harassment. He was virtually arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court on May 27.

Edward R. Freida, 49, (inset photo left) no address provided, was arrested at 3:15 p.m. April 18 on Pringle Avenue, Batavia, following a domestic incident during which he allegedly struck, then strangled a woman, causing her to lose consciousness. He then allegedly broke her cell phone after forcefully taking it from her. Freida is charged with: second-degree harassment; fourth-degree criminal mischief; second-degree strangulation; and third-degree robbery. He was virtually arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in Genesee County Jail in lieu of $10,000 cash bail, $20,000 bond, or $40,000 partially secured bond. Freida is scheduled to reappear in Batavia City Court on May 20.

Matthew Jacob Zon, 39, of East Main Street, Byron, is charged with criminal obstruction of breathing and third-degree assault. At 7:30 p.m. on April 23 Sheriff's deputies were dispatched to a residence on East Main Street in Byron for a domestic incident. Zon was arrested and arraigned in Genesee County Court, where an order of protection was issued to the victim. Zon was released on his own recognizance and is due in Byron Town Court on June 16.

Olivia Carolan Delorme, 18, of Cockram Road, Byron, is charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief. She was arrested at 4:25 p.m. on April 23 on Cockram Road following a domestic incident. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Byron Town Court on June 7. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Jonathan Dimmig.

Joseph Michael Augastino, 31, of Mann Road, Akron, is charged with trespassing. At 5:37 p.m. on May 18 Genesee County Sheriff's deputies responded to an address in the Town of Batavia for a domestic incident. Augastino allegedly remained in the property after being told multiple times to leave. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Town of Batavia Court on May 18. The case was handled by Deputy Zachary Hoy, assisted by Deputy Travis DeMuth.

Adam Bart Thomas, no age provided, of South Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief in the fourth degree and disorderly conduct. At 12:11 a.m. on April 24, Thomas was arrested after he allegedly damaged property in a reckless manner at a hotel on Federal Drive in Batavia. He was released with an appearance ticket to be in Town of Batavia Court on May 13. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer David Moore, assisted by Sgt. Michael Lute.

Richard Burdick, 43, no address provided, was arrested at 10:13 a.m. April 14 on East Avenue in Batavia during a traffic stop in which drug narcotics were allegedly located in his vehicle. He is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree. Burdick was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Christopher Weigman, 32, no address provided, was arrested at 10:13 a.m. April 14 on East Avenue in Batavia during a traffic stop in which he was allegedly found to possess a controlled substance. He is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree and criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Lisa Fox, 49, no address provided, was arrested at 10:13 a.m. April 14 on East Avenue in Batavia during a traffic stop in which she was allegedly found to possess a controlled substance and a hypodermic instrument. She is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree and criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument. She was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Dawn Lockwood, 51, no address provided, was arrested at 3:30 p.m. April 15 on Main Street in Batavia after she allegedly took money from another person under false pretenses and refused to return it. She is charged with petit larceny. Lockwood was released on an appearance ticket returnable to Batavia City Court on May 4.

Michael Lytle, no age or address provided, was arrested at 8:45 p.m. April 18 in Batavia after it was reported that "he was kicked out of a local bar, then began being demonstrative in the parking lot, briefly leaving in a vehicle then returning." During an investigation, it was determined that Lytle was allegedly operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. He is charged with driving while intoxicated and driving with a BAC of .08 percent or more. Lytle was issued traffic tickets then released. He is due in Batavia City Court on July 20.

Andrew William Taylor, 33, of Oak Orchard Road, Medina, is charged with petit larceny and criminal mischief. At 5 p.m. on April 21, Sheriff's deputies were dispatched to Walmart for a larceny complaint. It is alleged that Taylor stole and damaged merchandise belonging to Walmart. He was issued an appearance ticket and released. He is due in Batavia Town Court on June 15. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kyle Tower, assisted by Deputy Kyle Krzemien.

             Nathan Novia

              Trevor Dean

             Joe Georger

Press release:

New additions to the 2021 Batavia Muckdog roster all attended NCAA Division 2 and 3 institutions that find themselves in the Top 25 rankings. They are pitcher Nathan Novia, corner infielder Joe Georger, and outfielder Trevor Dean.

Novia is a right-handed pitcher from Leicester, Mass., and is listed at 6’0” 205 lbs. In his senior year at Worchester Academy, Novia underwent Tommy John surgery in April of 2019. After not playing a game in nearly two calendar years, Nate accepted a scholarship at NCAA Division 2 program, St. Thomas Aquinas College, in January 2020.

This year the Spartans have a 16-2 record, with a five-game winning streak snapped this past Sunday in a 13-12 loss to Molloy College. Last week St. Thomas Aquinas found themselves at No. 20 in the NCAA Divison 2 national rankings. Novia is still waiting for the first appearance of his collegiate career as a freshman at St. Thomas Aquinas.

Joe Georger is a sophomore at Divison 3 powerhouse Washington University at St. Louis, Mo., as a first and third baseman. The Appleton, Wis., native is listed at 6’3”, 215 lbs., and is in his sophomore season at Washington University at St. Louis. Per d3baseball.com, the Bears are ranked No. 1 in the country for the past two weeks after starting No. 8 in the preseason polls. Washington U. currently has a 22-3 record, winning one out of three games this weekend against Buena Vista University in Iowa.

Georger has seen limited action so far in his career with the Bears, getting three at-bats in the shortened 2020 season due to COVID-19 and playing in six games in 2021. In eight plate appearances, Georger has tallied one hit, two walks, a run scored, and a stolen base.

Trevor Dean is a 6’0” 185 lbs. freshman outfielder at fellow D3 school, Washington and Jefferson College located in Washington, Pa. Dean is from San Diego and attended Rancho Bernardo High School before heading to the East Coast to further his baseball career.

In his first season with the Presidents, Dean has started four of 21 games, five hits, five RBIs, and seven runs scored. Washington and Jefferson found themselves ranked No. 7 in the country on d3baseball.com, with a 27-1 record so far in 2021. Their next two series are against the Thiel Tomcats and St. Vincent Bearcats before the PAC conference tournament starting May 15th.

The Muckdogs are coming home to Dwyer Stadium on June 4th for their home opener after opening the season on the road in Elmira on June 3rd, which you can catch on Youtube Live on the Muckdogs Youtube page!

Make sure to call (607) 734-7825 and get your season tickets now before the 2021 season kicks off on June 4th. Be sure to like our Facebook page and subscribe to our Youtube channel, “Batavia Muckdogs Baseball.”

Welcome Nate, Joe, and Trevor, Go Dogs!

Press release from AAA:

Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $2.89, up 2 cents from last week. One year ago, the price was $1.78. The New York State average is $2.92 – up 3 cents from last week. A year ago, the NYS average was $2.19.

AAA Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following averages:

• Batavia -- $2.88 (up 3 cents since last week)
• Buffalo -- $2.86 (up 4 cents since last week)
• Ithaca -- $2.87 (up 1 cent since last week)
• Rochester -- $2.88 (up 1 cent since last week)
• Rome -- $2.95 (up 1 cent since last week)
• Syracuse -- $2.88 (up 1 cents since last week)
• Watertown -- $2.95 (no change since last week)

Last week’s demand estimate is one of the highest since March 2020. A year ago, social distancing restrictions were established that dramatically reduced gas demand.

Now, the demand for fuel is in line with the typical spring driving season rates seen pre-pandemic. Continued growth in total domestic supply will likely help to keep pump prices from spiking dramatically.

From GasBuddy:

"Last week saw limited upward movement in gas prices, tying the previous high water mark we last saw in March, signaling that perhaps we may see additional upside as most states in the nation have finished the transition to EPA-mandated summer gasoline," said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy.

"While gasoline demand did dip last week for the third straight week according to GasBuddy data, it was yet another small decline, and as temperatures continue to warm ahead of summer, it wouldn't surprise me that demand will rebound in the weeks ahead and we could continue to see gas prices push higher.

"For now, however, it doesn't appear that any rise in price would be significant, so motorists shouldn't be too concerned at this point, but may see see average prices inch higher."

From Laura A. Wadhams, P.E., assistant county engineer:

Upton Road between Route 33 and Rose Road in the Town of Batavia will be closed beginning May 3 through approximately Sept. 15^th for a bridge replacement project.

The road will not be passable to regular traffic or emergency vehicles. A detour will be posted.

From Kate Edwards, Advancement coordinator, DECA co-adviser, Notre Dame High School:

Notre Dame High School is pleased to announce a generous donation of $2,500 from Gerry and Carm Reinhart. This donation is given in the name of Scott D. "Fletch" Hale and will benefit Notre Dame's hockey and football programs.

Hale was a 1991 graduate of Batavia High School who excelled at hockey and football. He went on to Brockport State College graduating with a degree in Criminal Justice. He will be remembered for his larger than life personality and his kind heart.

For Hale's full obituary, click here.