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Tenney introduces resolution condemning Gov. Hochuls school budget cuts

By Press Release

Press Release:

File photo of 
Claudia Tenney

Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today joined Congressman Marc Molinaro (NY-19) and New York’s Republican Congressional Delegation in introducing a Congressional Resolution condemning New York Governor Kathy Hochul for defunding schools across New York State and prioritizing increased funding for migrants.

The Governor’s budget reduces funding for hundreds of schools across New York State while providing $2.4 billion to provide undocumented immigrants with legal assistance, housing, transportation, healthcare, and jobs. If Governor Hochul’s cuts to schools go through, schools could be forced to make up the difference by shuttering special education and disability services, cutting mental health resources, and more.

"Once again, Governor Kathy Hochul and Albany Democrats are putting illegal migrants and their progressive agenda ahead of New York’s children," said Congresswoman Tenney. "Hochul's misguided decision to cut critical funding from taxpayer-funded schools threatens students' learning, especially as they continue to recover from COVID-related learning loss and their access to valuable disability services and mental health resources. I stand with my New York Republican colleagues in demanding that she reevaluate her priorities and support our children over illegal migrants!"

"Governor Hochul is prioritizing undocumented immigrants over our children's education," said Congressman Molinaro. "Cutting funding for schools will inevitably jeopardize crucial disability services and mental health resources. We cannot let extreme left immigration policies ruin our children’s future. Governor Hochul: reverse course.”

"This self-inflicted New York City migrant crisis shouldn't be paid for on the backs of our children," said Congressman Garbarino. "Our children must come first. The needs of New Yorkers must be placed before those of illegal immigrants. I urge the Governor to change course and do what’s right for our kids and our state.”

“New York Democrats’ sanctuary policy that’s turning hotels, schools, federal parks, and senior living facilities into encampments for unvetted migrants from all over the world is unfair to surrounding communities and the taxpayers who are being forced to foot the bill," said Congresswoman Malliotakis. "Because of State and national Democrats’ reckless policies, the Governor is now slashing hundreds of millions of dollars from schools across the state, including over $130,000 from New York City. This crisis is unsustainable and unsafe for everyone involved, and the fact that our Mayor and Governor are cutting services from citizens to continue funding free giveaways to illegal immigrants is insane. Our children deserve better.”

“Governor Hochul’s misplaced priorities have placed the interests of migrants over Empire State students by slashing education funding while dedicating billions to those who crossed through our porous borders," said Congressman D’Esposito. "I am calling on Governor Hochul to immediately reverse course and stop punishing New York students for Joe Biden’s disastrous migrant crisis.”

“A politician’s budget proposal is indicative of that politician's values and it is clear from her budget that Governor Hochul values migrants over our kids," said Congressman LaLota. "As the husband of a teacher, father of three young girls, and a New York taxpayer, I’m appalled by the Governor’s heartlessness. Her decision to hurt our kids, especially in counties that voted against her, is Cuomo-esque bullying. The Governor is yet again putting politics before people and every New Yorker should be vocal against Hochul.”

GLOW with your hands healthcare event to be held at GCC March 22

By Press Release
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Submitted photo of speakers during presentation.

Press Release:

GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare plans to host its second annual career exploration event for local students interested in healthcare career pathways and opportunities. Approximately 600 students in grades 8-12 from 28 schools will gather at Genesee Community College on March 22 to connect with various healthcare businesses and organizations to learn about careers in healthcare and science-related fields throughout the GLOW region.

 

The success of GLOW with Your Hands in workforce recruitment in the manufacturing sector and the urgent workforce need in the healthcare sector has once again brought businesses, educational organizations, and economic development agencies from across the region to collaborate to provide an incredible opportunity for GLOW region students to learn about the careers in their own backyard.

“The healthcare sector is one of the GLOW region’s largest employers and contributors to the economy, offering ample career pathway opportunities to the next generation of workforce candidates,” said Angela Grouse, Education to Employment Director at the Livingston County Area Chamber and Co-Chair of GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare. “As we have experienced from our manufacturing event, hands-on interactions with these professionals and organizations lead to sustained interest.”

GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare will provide the healthcare sector with the opportunity to meet and recruit its future workforce. Participants include representatives from hospitals and health systems and those in nursing, mental health, social services and first responders.  Attendees also will be able to explore educational pathways in the healthcare sector through BOCES and local colleges and universities.

“Serving Wyoming County and the GLOW region for the past 110 years showcases our commitment to the community and why career exploration is so essential, especially in the healthcare sector,” said Wyoming County Community Health System CEO David Kobis. “Our local youth get a detailed understanding of the opportunities we have available, and we get to see what they are looking for in a career.”

“We are always trying to find new strategies and opportunities that help prepare our students to enter the workforce upon graduation,” said Karyn Winters, director of the Genesee County Business Education Alliance Director and Co-Chair of GLOW With Your Hands Healthcare. “Through collaboration with local stakeholders, we are building a workforce development model that is being replicated across the region.”

Various healthcare businesses and organizations have demonstrated their appreciation of the value of this event with generous support, including ESL Federal Credit Union, Wyoming County Community Health Services, Rochester Regional Health | United Memorial Medical Center, Genesee County Economic Development Center, and University of Rochester Medicine | Noyes Health.

“Our sponsors are one of the main reasons we have seen so much success and interest with GLOW With Your Hands events these past few years,” said Justin Dueppengiesser, Executive Director, of Wyoming County Business Education Council. “This is a unique opportunity for businesses across the region to tap into the pipeline of well-prepared and educated workforce candidates.”

There are still sponsorship opportunities for the March 22nd event at the Platinum ($5,000), Gold ($2,500), Silver ($1,000) and Bronze ($500) levels.

For more information about GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare visit www.GLOWWithYourHands.com/healthcare or contact Chris Suozzi at csuozzi@gcedc.com.

Coach's Corner: STEM after school programs blossom in 3D

By Chris Suozzi
mechatronics-lab
chris suozzi coaches corner

Changes in technology, from AI to computer-driven manufacturing, are at the forefront of all aspects of our everyday lives.

As we learn more about these tools, we must use them to our advantage and adapt. That’s what all great coaches, teachers, and learners do.

You wouldn’t catch me dead rooting for Bill Belichick, but now that he’s gone from the AFC East, I’m okay saying that he showed us how to do it right.

As coaches and parents, we have to adapt our strategy in our “off-seasons,” no matter how successful we were the previous year. Bring in new concepts, lift up new talents, and find every advantage we can.

And for parents with students in the third grade and higher, there is an advantage your kids can access right now!

Did you know kids are already learning Industry 4.0 concepts, troubleshooting, operational efficiency and creative thinking through 3-D printing - and doing it at Robert Morris?

The Batavia Tech Club offers short-session programs with instruction and application through hands-on interactions with emerging technologies.

I’ve seen Jim Dillon grow this idea, constantly making adjustments to equip more students with the skills that will make them the best learners and future leaders.

Jim leads classes in 3D printing, 3D design, micro-controller coding, cloud-based collaboration, CNC laser cutting, and other cutting-edge technology-related skills that are essential to today’s workplace.

His focus is on age-appropriate learning. This week’s programs were for 3rd through 8th graders, and next week’s are for 3rd through 5th graders.

On Tuesday, I joined Jim and his students as they toured a classroom filled with 3-D printers and Arduino controls. It buzzed with activity. To see the instant gratification of making something was great, but seeing students gain an understanding of how equipment works was even better.

Putting these types of technologies in their hands pushes young learners outside of their comfort zones.

This is how you grow and develop interests you may have never been aware of.

In workforce development, we make improvements every year. We tailor our programs to the economic demands and interests expressed by workforce candidates.  That’s how to do it right.

The good news is that our kids have already taken those steps. Even if they don’t realize it, each new challenge they take on gives them more flexibility in the future.

We have to show them the way and highlight what’s available. While our big events like GLOW With Your Hands are popular, a lot is happening just out of sight.

The Batavia Tech Club is a great example.

We need to continue to equip the next generation of skilled workers with youth workforce programs that are building the pipeline for the growing private sector across our region. Why not expand their minds with the latest technologies being taught by the Batavia Tech Club?

If you’re interested in getting involved with the Batavia Tech Club, please contact Jim Dillon at jdillon@bataviatechclub.com or (585) 297-7779.

Chris Suozzi is the Vice President of Business &Workforce Development at the Genesee County Economic Development Center.

Sponsored Post: Bontrager to host a second Waffle Breakfast on Saturday February 10th

By Lisa Ace
Bontrager

You are invited to a waffle breakfast at the Bontrager Auction Center on February 10th , from 7AM – 10AM! Come and enjoy all-you-can-eat homemade waffles and locally produced sausage. All proceeds from the breakfast support the Christian Missions & Relief Sale, a benefit auction for Christian organizations, to be held August 10th, 2024 at Bontrager Auction. Tickets are $10, and can be purchased at the door. Or call 585-409-7408 to purchase tickets pre-sale. For more information, visit https://www.christianmissionsreliefsale.com/.

Batavia Youth Baseball opens registration for 2024 season

By Press Release

Press Release:

Registration for the 2024 Batavia Youth Baseball Season is now open until March 2nd.

Divisions available in our House League are:

  • T-Ball (Ages 4-6)
  • Coach Pitch (Ages 7-8)
  • Minor Division (Ages 9-10)
  • Majors Division (Ages 11-12)

Any youth ages 4-12 interested in playing baseball can register @ https://www.nybataviayouthbaseball.com/.

The Batavia Youth Baseball Board would like to welcome our new Board of Directors for 2024:

Kevin Rogers(President), Jenn Pacino-Lendvay(Vice President), Beth Kemp(Secretary), Jason Crater(Treasurer), Jose Arroyo, Dave D’Amico, Steve Fancher, Pat Fava, Pam Martin, Kristine McCarthy, James Patric, and Mark Sacheli.

GC Republican Committee endorsing candidates for 2024 election

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee County Republican Committee will be meeting to endorse candidates for the 2024 Election.

The following positions will be open:

  • United States Congress
  • NYS Senate
  • NYS Assembly
  • Genesee County Sheriff
  • Genesee County Treasurer
  • County Coroners (2)

If you are interested in running for one of the above positions please contact Republican Chairman Scott German at 585-409-4870, GeneseeChair@yahoo.com, or mail your resume and letter of intent to PO Box 151, Batavia. All letters must be received by Tuesday, Feb. 13.

Chambry tops 1,000 career points in Byron-Bergen win over Pembroke

By Staff Writer
byron bergen pembroke basketball

Byron-Bergen's Braedyn Chambry scored his 1,000th career point on Wednesday in Pembroke against the Dragons, as part of a 28-point effort to help the Bees to a 62-56 win.

The Bees are now 12-4 on the season, and the Dragons are 9-4.  The teams are 1-1 against each other this season.

Brody Baubie scored 19 points for the Bees.

For Pembroke, Tyson Totten scored 24 points, and Avery Ferreira scored 12 points.

Press release from Byron-Bergen Central Schools:

The Byron-Bergen High School Athletic Department proudly announces that Braedyn Chambry scored his 1000th point as a varsity basketball player on Jan. 31. He joins an elite group of high school athletes but, despite this milestone, remains a team player.

“Braedyn has been an exceptional player for our program over his career,” said Boys Varsity Basketball Coach Roxanne Noeth. “His work ethic and team-first approach have provided us with so many exciting moments. We hope the best are yet to come. We are so proud of him for this achievement.”

Chambry, who is also team captain, is in his fourth year as a varsity basketball player. His varsity career started out with a season shortened by COVID, in which he only tallied 33 points. Three excellent seasons followed, though, bringing his overall scoring tally into the quadruple digits.

Chambry would like to thank all his teammates, his family, and his coaches who have helped and supported him along the way. He adds, “Special shout out to Mr. Pimm for doing a lot of extra work in my early years.” In addition to basketball, Chambry plays varsity soccer and baseball. After graduation, he plans to attend college and continue his athletic career.

Also in Boys Basketball on Wednesday, Canandaigua beat Batavia 65-47. Carter Mullen scored 13 points and Justin Smith scored 12.

Photos by Jennifer DiQuattro

byron bergen pembroke basketball
byron bergen pembroke basketball
byron bergen pembroke basketball
byron bergen pembroke basketball
byron bergen pembroke basketball
byron bergen pembroke basketball
byron bergen pembroke basketball

City fire chief shares stats, department rating during budget session

By Joanne Beck
Batavia Fire Chief Josh Graham, Twichell, Brett Frank
File Photo of Batavia City Fire Chief Josh Graham, left, City Councilman David Twichell and DPW Director Brett Frank during a budget session at City Hall. 
Photo by Joanne Beck

Wednesday’s city budget session was fairly short and sweet compared to a recent meeting — as City Fire Chief Josh Graham laid out his department's stats and recent insurance rating for a subdued City Council — and the group continued its way through a proposed $37 million financial plan at City Hall.

Graham explained his $4,696,860 2025 proposed budget, an increase of $286,583 from the 2024 adopted budget. 

Of the 2,653 incidents to occur in 2023, nearly 68 percent of the call volume involved emergency medical services, Graham said. The department has experienced a 57.5 percent increase in call volume over the last 13 years, from 2010 to 2023, with the same number of 36 firefighters, he said, and six out of eight officers are eligible for retirement or will be within the next two years.

As for personnel, he told council to keep in mind that there may be two firefighters “that we have to push through the academy,” and retirement costs added an extra $140,000 to the budget.

Three new members joined the department in 2023, and it requested mutual aid a dozen times that year, three times less than called upon for mutual aid, responding 15 times.

He pointed out the length of careers for the entire team, with a fairly even split among those firefighters at two years and less, three to 10 years and 11 years or more.

“So if you wanted to look at the actual numbers from 2010, all the way up to 2023, you can pretty much see the line that goes across there, with 2020 being that dip during COVID. Obviously, the run numbers went down the next page just shows the career lengths, which I thought was kind of interesting because we're right at about one-third, one-third and one-third,” he said. “We're pretty green for our fire department, but because we have such a stellar staff of officers and those mid-level senior firefighters, it all worked out pretty much 33 percent right across the board.”

So what does the city fire department do?
Emergency medical services, fire suppression, motor vehicle accidents, hazmat, ice and swift water, rope and confined space rescues; firefighter assist and search team; fire prevention and fire extinguisher training; building inspection/code enforcement; car seat checks and installations; community service events/standby; emergency medical technician and related training; fire investigations; smoke and carbon monoxide detector installations. 

August was the busiest month in 2023, at 249 calls, with May and November tying for the lowest calls of 193. Firefighters apparently could get some sleep between 3 to 4 a.m., since that was the least busy time, at 44 calls, but not at 10 a.m., when activity reached its peak at 163 calls, still lingering at 161 calls between 11 a.m. and noon. 

The department responded to 63 structure fires, 80 motor vehicle accidents, 351 alarms, 85 hazardous conditions, 108 service calls, and 1,804 needs for emergency medical services.

The department arrived on scene within six minutes, 90 percent of the time, with an average response of less than four minutes. A response time of 10 to 11 minutes occurred in 19 percent of the calls, while nearly half of them were between three and five minutes. 

His wish list includes a replacement of portable radios and pagers, which would cost $200,000 if purchased all at once. However, he suggested an $8,700 increase to the communications budget line to purchase or fix those pieces of equipment. Pagers are used to notify off-duty staff for recall, and the radios were last purchased with a grant through the county around 2015-16, he said. 

“We were hoping that there would be another grant and we could start replacing the radios, but that's not coming to fruition. So in order to replace the entirety of our radios, you're looking at just short of $200,000. So this is an attempt to try to start cycling those out, as opposed to replacing them all at the same time,” Graham said. “They are just aging out. They may be broken … so if they do break, and the radio costs, you know, $2,000 to fix it, but it's $4,000 for a radio, do you pay the $2,000 to fix it? Or do you get the three newer versions for $4,000?”

He said that video lottery terminal funds could be used to replace 10 portable radios, “and will get us well on our way to replacing them.”

The department already received its Christmas present: a nearly $800,000 fire engine that, with assistance from grant funds, will gradually be paid off over the next two decades in debt service payments. It’s that apparatus and all else owned by Batavia, and the number of staff that went into account for its public classification insurance ranking of “03,” which means the city is “considered highly protected,” Graham said.

Per a letter sent to the city, this ranking is important to communities and fire departments because, as the rating improves, those communities “may get lower insurance prices.” 

When asked by a council member how a department earns a “2” or a “1,” Graham said the top number is extremely hard to get, and it takes “high dollar things to improve the three rating,” he said.

There are 31,867 departments at a four or worse, he said.

Larceny reported at Ulta Beauty, suspects fleeing in silver SUV

By Howard B. Owens

A larceny was reported at Ulta Beauty with three subjects running from the store on foot toward the ESL Credit Union, where they apparently got into a silver SUV and fled the scene.

The stores are in Batavia Towne Center on Veterans Memorial Drive.

Law enforcement units are converging on the area.

Responding units have gone to secure communications, so there aren't likely to be further updates on the search or pursuit.

'First-round draft picks' celebrated on signing day for apprenticeships at local companies

By Steve Ognibene
Students from all over the Genesee Region in attendance of signing day.  Photo by Steve Ognibene.
Students from all over the Genesee Region in attendance of signing day Tuesday.
Photo by Steve Ognibene

The students matched with apprenticeship programs from local companies are all "first-round draft picks," said Chris Souzzi, VP of business and workforce development for the Genesee County Economic Development Center, on Tuesday at a signing celebration.

The event was held at the Best Center on the campus of Genesee Community College to celebrate high school juniors and seniors participating in the Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeships Program.

The participants are first-round picks, Souzzi said, "because they really are great prospects for our future."

Juniors in the program engage in job shadows, and seniors are eligible for paid co-op apprenticeships with participating companies.

Matches were announced Tuesday for more than 30 students and 10 companies from the region.

“The Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program is proud to connect students from the Batavia BOCES’ electro-mechanical and metal trades programs to advanced manufacturing companies for paid co-ops and job shadows,” said Rich Turner, RTMA Director of Workforce Development. “Through FLYAP, high school juniors and seniors are receiving real on-the-job experience paired with state-of-the-art classroom training which prepares them for in-demand careers in advanced manufacturing.”

The Finger Lakes Youth Apprenticeship Program was created in 2018 by the Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA) in partnership with Monroe Community College (MCC). The program is the first of its kind in New York State and is supported by the RTMA, MCC, RG&E Foundation and Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation. The Genesee County Economic Development Center is also a FLYAP Gold Sponsor and assists the program with business recruitment.

In its fifth school year, FLYAP has connected more than 650 students to nearly 150 businesses throughout the greater Rochester and Finger Lakes region.  FLYAP students have also received credit for more than 500 college classes at no cost to them, their schools or their families.

To view or purchase photos, click here.

Photos by Steve Ognibene

Emma Spink of Attica  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Emma Spink of Attica.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Easton Willis of Oakfield Alabama with Oxbo representative.  Photo by Steve Ognibene
Notre Dame
Brody Warner of Notre-Dame Batavia with representative Gorbel.   Photo by Steve Ognibene
Brody Warner of Notre Dame Batavia with Gorbel representative.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Jaxson Delpriore of LeRoy with McCabe Electric representative   Photo by Steve Ognibene
Jaxson Delpriore of LeRoy with McCabe Electric representative.
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Hayman Hendrik to be signed for Protech   Photo by Steve Ognibene
Hayman Hendrik to be signed for Protech. 
Photo by Steve Ognibene
Representatives from various job placement sites in Genesee County   Photo by Steve Ognibene
Representatives from various job placement sites in Genesee County.   
Photo by Steve Ognibene

Sheron announces he will not run for reelection as county sheriff

By Press Release

Press Release:

Sheriff William A. Sheron Jr. announced Wednesday that he will not be seeking
reelection for another term as Genesee County Sheriff. Sheriff Sheron’s current
term ends on Dec. 31, 2024, at which time he will retire.

Upon completion of this term, Sheriff Sheron will have served 47 1/2 years with
the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, starting in 1977 as a 9-1-1 Dispatcher and
progressing through the ranks of Deputy Sheriff – Jail, Deputy Sheriff – Road
Patrol, Sergeant, Investigator, Chief Deputy – Road Patrol, and Undersheriff for
20 years before being elected Sheriff in 2016.

"It has been an honor and a privilege to serve with the Genesee County Sheriff’s
Office, and I wish to thank my family, current and former members of the
Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, along with the citizens of Genesee County, for
all the support provided throughout the years," Sheron said.

City police staffing study produces several recommendations for budget talks

By Joanne Beck
BPD Chief Shawn Heubusch and Assistant Chris Camp
Batavia Police Chief Shawn Heubusch and Assistant Chief Chris Camp review the proposed 2025 budget and a state report at City Hall.
Photo by Joanne Beck

Become an accredited agency, clearly specify job responsibilities for each sergeant, have a desk officer to take walk-in complaints once the new police station is operational, hire and fill vacancies for two school crossing guards, bump up the patrol roster by five to 25 officers and add a full-time confidential secretary.

Those are the recommendations from a New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services study for the Batavia Police Department. Chief Shawn Heubusch asked for a staffing study in June 2023, and he got back several recommendations that are up for consideration. Heubusch reviewed the results with City Council this week during the police department’s budget session at City Hall.

What went into it
The study took demographics, geography, and the area — the city has a total area of 5.2 square miles of land and 135 miles of roadway — within city limits, with major thoroughfares of east-west NY Route 5 and 33, north-south NY Route 63 and 98.

An owner-occupied housing rate of 49.3 percent with a median value of $108,100 per 2021 U.S. Census Bureau, and a population of 15,459, with 83.3. percent white, 5.8 percent Black, .1 percent American Indian and Alaska Native, 1.2 percent Asian and 7.4 percent two or more races. The median household income, again, per 2021 dollars, was $51,914, with 16 percent of the population at or below the poverty line.

The police department has been involved in community events, including Batavia Community Night Out, Shop with a Cop, and Trunk or Treat, plus a newer Batavia Police Flag Memorial. The department also assists in several other events by providing police presence, such as at 5K races and parades.

The police budget in 2023 was $4,374,567, with an average of $3,907,698 during the last four years, the report states, for services that include preventative patrols, traffic control and enforcement; criminal investigations; enforcement and crime prevention; community policing activities; interagency collaboration and work activities; and community education; plus first aid efforts of using automated external defibrillators, Narcan and assistance at structure fires, mental health transports when needed.

A detective division investigates cases involving all major felonies, homicides, serious assaults, cyber, sex and juvenile crimes. Detectives also assist patrols with other investigations as requested, and are responsible for following up on preliminary investigations initiated by patrol officers.

Working by the numbers
There were 20,020 total calls for service in 2022 and 20,885 in 2021, reflecting “a lot of calls related to COVID,” Heubusch said. The average calls in both 2021 and 2022 during the day shift (7 a.m. to 3 p.m.) were 6,444, with the most being in the afternoon from 3 to 11 p.m., at 7,110, and a drop to 6,899 during 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.

The DCJS uses a calculation to figure out how many posts are actually needed to fill three shifts per day. Using that formula, it recommended that 11 posts are needed, which was then calculated into officers, at seven for the day shift and nine for each of the afternoon and night shifts, for a total of 25 officers. 

“We are currently authorized for 20,” Heubusch said. “That’s a big jump. Their numbers back this up.” 

The formula indicates that 25 full-time uniformed personnel are required to respond to calls for service, the report states. This figure does not include patrol supervisory positions such as sergeants and/or corporals. This is the recommended minimum number, established by the application of the formula as being necessary to staff the Batavia Police Department to respond to calls for service, Heubusch said.

An overview of patrol activities showed wide differences for some tasks, such as 702 mental health calls in 2022 versus 658 in 2021 and 728 welfare checks in 2022 compared to 594 in 2021, and a few decreases, namely the 185 to 126 fraud complaints from 2021 to 2022, respectively. There were five more cases for detectives between the two years as well, up from, 325 to 330.

As is, training time, holidays, Workers Comp, “a lot of these factors are what’s driving over time,” he said. Overtime was conservatively estimated at $220,000 for the 2025 budget, and it “will probably be more,” Heubusch said. 

Parking incidents and violations rose, from 1,712 to 1,725 and 612 to 884, respectively. 

The department is in the process of becoming a DCJS-certified tactical team, Assistant Chief Chris Camp said, “and we hope to reach this goal within two years.”

“We’re really close; we just need to send a few more of our operators to our basic squad school,” he said. “Unfortunately, that’s a very time-consuming school, it’s a four-week school, and the offerings aren’t that much. So when they do offer them, we’ve got to make sure that we’re prepared to send somebody away for four weeks.”

The department is also working on an interagency agreement with Livingston County to operate as one tactical team when necessary, he said. 

“That helps us towards becoming a certified tactical team,” he said. “We want to become certified, so we think it will open the door for us to get grant money at that point in time. One of the things that we sorely lack right now is the ability to apply for grants because we’re not a certified team.” 

Upgraded technology has helped the department, in terms of time, money and space, Heubusch said, by allowing people to pay their tickets online more immediately, to submit and transmit video recordings to and from the police and district attorney’s office for use in investigations and legal proceedings, and ability to store records in the Cloud versus having physical storage at the station. 

There is $22,750 budgeted for uniforms, and Heubusch made a special note for council that “no money is budgeted for additional officers” in that uniforms line. Council members have to make a decision about whether to add one or more additional officers to next year’s budget or plan it out for future budgets. City Manager Rachael Tabelski informed them on Monday that it would cost $84,500 per officer, plus medical expenses. 

Council members Tammy Schmidt and Bob Bialkowski said they would not support any tax increases, and Council President Eugene Jankowski was in favor of taking any personnel changes slowly and holding off this year, he said. 

Bialkowski said he thinks the department is “doing a great job,” however, there could be a better effort made with public outreach.

“I think a lot of people don’t realize what’s available … what your department is capable of,” Bialkowski said.

The department tries to educate the public and keep updated whenever possible, Heubusch said. 

“We put press releases out on new programs that we have on a regular basis. We have a program that allows people to register their cameras with us so we know where they are,” he said. “We're trying to stay ahead of technology. And that's the one thing that I take a lot of pride in and pat ourselves on the back if you will, is our technology in the department is not very far behind the general public.”

Deputy Chad Cummings named Officer of the Year in annual awards ceremony at Sheriff's Office

By Howard B. Owens
sheriff's office awards 2024
Sheriff William Sheron reads the citation to go along with the Officer of the Year Award for Deputy Chad Cummings, who stands with his children during the awards ceremony on Tuesday at the Sheriff's Office in Batavia. 
Photo by Howard Owens.

A deputy who has distinguished himself through hard work, dedication, and a positive, professional attitude was named Tuesday Officer of the Year for the Genesee County Sheriff's Office.

Chad P. Cummings joined the force nine years ago and has consistently demonstrated a willingness to take on additional duties as he's moved through various positions in the department, said Sheriff William Sheron. 

Jason R. Queal, a corrections officer for 11 years, received the Distinguished Service Award for his work and dedication. 

Other notable awards were given to three deputies who assisted a mother in dire circumstances and six corrections officers who helped save an inmate from an attempted suicide. 

Cummings, Sgt. Jason E. Saile and Deputy Jenna M. Ferrando commendationsfor assisting a destitute mother who was the subject of a trespass complaint at a local hotel because she was unable to pay her bill on Oct. 2. After the deputies were unable to secure assistance for her with any area agency, the officers pooled their own personal funds and rented her a room at another hotel, provided the family food, and made six trips to move the family and their belongings to their new room.

Also receiving commendations were Senior Correction Officer James M. Smart and Correction Officers Dennis J. Bartholomew, Laurie J. Schwab, Tyler M. Tambe, Chester L. Sherman, & Katherine M. Stearns.

The corrections officers worked together on Dec. 20 to reinstate an inmate who had attempted to hang himself and obtained emergency medical treatment for the inmate, saving his life.

sheriff's office awards 2024
Jason R. Queal, Distinguished Service Award winner with is family and command staff.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Deputy Jenna M. Ferrando.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Sgt. Jason Saile.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Senior Correction Officer James M. Smart and Correction Officers Dennis J. Bartholomew, Laurie J. Schwab, Tyler M. Tambe, Chester L. Sherman, & Katherine M. Stearns with jail command staff, Jail Superintendent Bill Zipfel and Deputy Superintendent Jeff Searls
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Deputy Jeremiah W. Gechell receiving a commendation award.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Investigator Erik B. Andre receiving a commendation award.
Photo by Howard Owens.
sheriff's office awards 2024
Investigator Ryan M. DeLong receiving a commendation. Command staff, from left, Jail Superintendent Bill Zipfel, Frank Riccobono, director of emergency communications, Chief Deputy Brian Frieday, Sheriff William Sheron, Undersheriff Brad Mazur, Chief Deputy Joseph Graff.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Press release:

Officer of the Year Award
Deputy Sheriff Chad Cummings has distinguished himself in the performance of service to the citizens of Genesee County during 2023. 

Deputy Sheriff Chad P. Cummings is a nine-year member of the Sheriff’s Office, with the last three of those years assigned to the Civil Office.  Deputy Cummings consistently displays a professional, positive attitude and unwavering work ethic.  Deputy Cummings has been a leader in civil enforcement (one of the most dangerous duties a Deputy performs).  He always accepts special assignments and has taken on additional duties, such as completing the Seal Orders in the Records Division, assisting Road Patrol with inmate transports, and handling multiple traffic complaints. 

Deputy Sheriff Chad P. Cummings has reflected great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and most deserve to be named Officer of the Year.

Distinguished Service Award – 
Senior Correction Officer Jason R. Queal has distinguished himself as a Genesee County Sheriff’s Office member for 11 years. 

Senior Correction Officer Jason R. Queal began his career on January 19, 2013.  During his career, he was the recipient of a Meritorious Service award for his consistent dedication in the performance of his duties.  Senior C.O. Queal is the Grievance Coordinator; he thoroughly investigates and resolves each inmate’s complaint effectively and professionally. Additionally, he is the liaison with the Commission of Corrections, assisting with the jail’s cycle reviews, and he is a firearms and defensive tactics instructor.  Senior C.O. Queal frequently assists administration with tasks that go well beyond his listed duties to ensure smooth operations and is always willing to take on additional responsibilities without hesitation.

Senior Correction Officer Jason R. Queal has reflected great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

LONGEVITY AWARDS:

  • Senior Correction Officer Jason R. Queal, 10 years
  • Sergeant Andrew B. Hale, 10 years
  • Case Manager Nicole M. Easton, 10 years
  • Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher Michael T. Sheflin, 15 years
  • Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher Jason W. Holman, 15 years
  • Sergeant James M. Diehl, 15 years
  • Deputy Sheriff Kevin R. McCarthy, 15 years
  • Principal Financial Clerk Deborah A. Shea, 15 years
  • Director of Emergency Communications Francis A. Riccobono, 15 years
  • Jail Cook William S. Cultrara, 15 years
  • Correction Officer Daniel J. Renz, 20 years
  • Senior Correction Officer Caleb C. Chaya, 20 years
  • Correction Officer Brian M. Manley, 25 years
  • Senior Correction Officer Peter M. Hoy, 25 years

MERITORIOUS AWARDS: 

Correction Officer Jason Buck
Correction Officer Jason M. Buck has distinguished himself by Meritorious Service as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. 

Correction Officer Buck has been instrumental in utilizing his communication skills to de-escalate multiple situations with hostile inmates to resolve incidents calmly and without force.  He voluntarily accepts additional responsibilities such as assisting the grievance coordinator, training new officers, and accepting overtime shifts when needed.  Correction Officer Jason M. Buck is a true asset to the department; his professionalism, dedication, and work ethic are an example for others.

Correction Officer Jason M. Buck has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

COMMENDATIONS:

Sergeant Jason E. Saile, Deputy Jenna M. Ferrando, & Deputy Chad P. Cummings
These officers are being recognized for their actions while on duty on October 2, 2023.  A call was received for a trespass complaint at a local hotel.   It was determined that a guest had no way to pay for her room and was asked to leave.  The guest was with two children and stated they would be homeless if they left the hotel.  Attempts to secure assistance were unsuccessful because there was none available.  These officers paid out of their own pockets for a room for the night at a nearby hotel and for food to feed the family.  Additionally, they made six trips to move the family’s belongings from one hotel to the other.  These officers are to be commended for their actions which have brought great credit upon themselves and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Jeremiah W. Gechell
Deputy Sheriff Jeremiah W. Gechell is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions while off duty August 10, 2023.   Deputy Gechell came upon a two-car motor vehicle accident that had just occurred on Main Road in the Town of Pembroke.  Without hesitation, Deputy Gechell stopped to assist at the scene and immediately contacted the Genesee County Emergency Services Dispatch Center with important information that a typical citizen may not know to relay.  Deputy Gechell was able to apply his own tourniquet to one of the patients who had suffered a severe leg injury and was bleeding profusely.  Applying the tourniquet stopped major blood loss until additional assistance arrived and, undoubtedly, contributed to saving the patient’s life.   Deputy Sheriff Jeremiah W. Gechell is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Sergeant Mathew J. Clor
Sergeant Mathew J. Clor is being recognized with a Commendation Award for his actions while on duty.

December 27, 2023.  A 9-1-1 EMS call was received for a resident with an arm laceration.  Sergeant Clor was nearby and responded to the call.  Upon arrival, Sergeant Clor found a male bleeding heavily from his arm as a result of an accident with a storm door.  Without hesitation, Sergeant Clor applied his own tourniquet to the patient and in doing so was able to stop the excessive bleeding until medical assistance arrived.  Sergeant Clor’s quick actions and instincts prevented more serious injury to the patient.   Sergeant Mathew J. Clor is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. 

Deputy James D. Stack
Deputy Sheriff James D. Stack is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his instrumental coordination and implementation of the Sheriff’s Office handgun replacement project.  Deputy Stack proposed a transition and replacement of the Sheriff's Office duty handguns by supplying rationale citing the benefit and need for an updated firearm platform and estimated costs for the project.  Deputy Stack assisted with the logistics of acquiring the needed equipment and was integral in the planning for the implementation of a training program.  The effort put forth by Deputy Stack on this project resulted in a state-of-the-art, updated firearm platform for the Sheriff's Office duty handguns.  Deputy Sheriff James D. Stack is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigator Ryan M. DeLong
Investigator Ryan M. DeLong is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his instrumental

contribution in acquiring a Mobile Response Unit for the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.  Investigator DeLong proposed that the Sheriff's Office had a need for a vehicle which could be primarily used as a mobile operations center.  In addition to his primary investigative responsibilities, Investigator DeLong researched solutions and was able to identify and acquire, with minimal expense, a vehicle which could suit the needs of the Office.  Investigator DeLong followed through with outfitting the vehicle with necessary equipment and has been instrumental in the Sheriff’s Office being able to put a Mobile Response Unit into service to better serve the community.  Further, Investigator DeLong continues to be proactive with combating organized retail crime efforts.  Investigator Ryan M. DeLong is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigator Erik B. Andre
Investigator Erik B. Andre is being recognized with a Commendation Award for his continuous work creating proactive investigations.   Throughout 2023, Investigator Andre has maintained a substantial caseload of active investigations as well as aggressively combatting retail theft crime.  Investigator Andre has worked to develop cases that may not have otherwise been pursued as they were not initially reported by the stores themselves.  By pursuing these cases, Investigator Andre not only holds the perpetrators accountable, but he has also developed information that has been valuable in other investigations.

Investigator Erik B. Andre is to be commended for his actions which have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Senior Correction Officer James M. Smart and Correction Officers Dennis J. Bartholomew, Laurie J. Schwab, Tyler M. Tambe, Chester L. Sherman, & Katherine M. Stearns
These officers are being recognized for their actions while on duty on December 20, 2023.  At approximately 5:29 pm, there was an incident of an inmate attempted suicide.  Officers remained calm, secured the scene, responded quickly, and worked together to resuscitate the inmate.  These officers are to be commended for their courage and quick actions, which have brought great credit upon themselves and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Lead Family Advocate Jacqueline M. O’Brien & Family Advocate Lydia J. Schauf
These advocates are being recognized for being instrumental in providing the Child Safety Matters child abuse prevention curriculum to over 3,000 children in the Batavia and Byron-Bergen school districts in grades kindergarten through eighth.  This prevention education curriculum has been shown to empower children with information to enhance their ability to reduce the risk of neglect, cyber crimes, bullying, physical abuse, and sexual abuse.  O’Brien went above and beyond her typical workload with many sessions provided when the CAC was short-staffed.  These advocates are to be commended for their actions which have brought great credit upon herself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION:

JFCAC Program Coordinator Theresa Roth for her eight years of service.  She has served the citizens of Genesee County with professionalism, dedication, and enthusiasm and has been a source of pride for the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.   

Gary Patnode for his assistance in improving training space for department firearms.  When the training staff inquired about improving a room to clean and maintain department firearms, Gary used personal time and his own supplies to build countertops to enhance the room’s space and capability.  His efforts have resulted in an improved and dedicated space to maintain equipment to the necessary standards needed for everyday duty use for the Sheriff’s Office.

Alex Moskal. Loss Prevention Supervisor and Organized Retail Crime Captain for Kohl’s Department Store, for his assistance throughout 2023 fighting organized retail crime at the Towne Center shopping plaza.  Due to Alex’s vast knowledge, experience, and countless interactions in the field, he has been able to identify countless misdemeanor and felony crime suspects via surveillance video.  He has also assisted our Office in identifying suspects involved in other retail store thefts in Genesee County, including a high-dollar theft from a local beauty supply store.  Alex provides well-written depositions, supplies complete surveillance video footage and makes himself accessible to law enforcement during off hours.

Bees rally but can't come back against Attica in Boys Basketball

By Staff Writer
byron bergen basketball

A fourth-quarter run by Byron-Bergen on Monday wasn't enough for the Bees to overcome Attica's game-long lead.

The Blue Devils won the Boys Basketball contest 49-45.

Braedyn Chambry scored 22 points for the Bees. 

Also in Boys basketball on Monday, Pembroke beat Kendall 68-44. Jayden Bridge scored 19 points, Tyson Totte, 18, and Avery Ferreira, 11.

Photos by Jennifer DiQuattro.

byron bergen basketball
byron bergen basketball
byron bergen basketball

LEGAL NOTICE: Medtech Landing GCEDC Assistance Public Hearing

By Legal Notices

LEGAL NOTICE: Medtech Landing GCEDC Assistance Public Hearing

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing pursuant to Article 18-A of the New York General Municipal Law will be held by the Genesee County Industrial Development Agency d/b/a Genesee County Economic Development Center (the "Agency") on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 3:30 p.m., local time, at Batavia Town Hall in the Meeting/Court Room, at 3833 West Main Street Road, Batavia, New York 14020, in connection with the following matter:

MEDTECH LANDING, LLC, for itself or on behalf of an entity formed or to be formed by it or on its behalf (the "Company") has submitted an application (the "Application") to the Agency, a copy of which is on file with the Agency, requesting the Agency's assistance with respect to a certain project (the "Project") consisting of: (i) the acquisition by the Agency of a leasehold or other interest in certain property located at Assemblyman R. Stephen Hawley Drive, Town of Batavia, Genesee County, New York and all other lands in the Town of Batavia where, by license or easement or other agreement, the Company or its designees are making improvements that benefit the Project (the "Land", being more particularly described as all or a portion of tax parcel Nos. 9.-1-213, 9.-1-214, 9.-1-216.21, 9.-1-217 and 9.-1-218, as may be merged); (ii) the planning, design, construction and operation of seven (7) buildings comprising eighty (80) market rate apartments and six (6) six (6) car garages, along with utility and site improvements, parking lots, access and egress improvements, signage, curbage, landscaping and stormwater retention improvements (collectively, the "Improvements"); and (iii) the acquisition by the Company in and around the Improvements of certain items of machinery, equipment and other tangible personal property (the "Equipment"; and, together with the Land and the Improvements, the "Facility").

The Agency will acquire title to, or a leasehold interest in, the Facility and lease the Facility back to the Company. The Company will operate the Facility during the term of the lease. At the end of the lease term, the Company will purchase the Facility from the Agency, or if the Agency holds a leasehold interest, the leasehold interest will be terminated. The Agency contemplates that it will provide financial assistance (the "Financial Assistance") to the Company in the form of sales and use tax exemptions, a partial mortgage recording tax exemption consistent with the policies of the Agency, and a partial real property tax abatement.

The Agency will broadcast the public hearing live at www.vimeo.com/event/3477651, and the public hearing video will be available for on-demand viewing on the Agency's website at www.gcedc.com/projects.

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A representative of the Agency will be at the above-stated time and place to present a copy of the Company's Project Application and hear and accept written and oral comments from all persons with views in favor of or opposed to or otherwise relevant to the proposed Financial Assistance.

Dated: January 24, 2024 GENESEE COUNTY INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AGENCY D/B/A

GENESEE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CENTER

Sheriff's Office investigation apparent burglary at gun shop in Oakfield

By Howard B. Owens

In the early morning on Friday, a caller, using security cameras, observed individuals in hoodies in a gun shop on Lockport Road, Oakfield and called law enforcement while continuing to monitor their activities.

Chief Deputy Joseph Graff confirmed that emergency dispatchers received a call at 5:17 a.m.

The caller observed the suspects leave before deputies arrived on scene.  

The perpetrators are still at large.

It's unclear if they stole any items from the shop.

Graff said, "It's very early in the investigation. We don't have anything further to share at this point."

 

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Tourism Marketing Assistant Position The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, serving as the official tourism promotion agency for Genesee County, NY is seeking an experienced marketing professional to assist in the overall Chamber tourism and marketing initiatives for Genesee County. https://visitgeneseeny.com/about/join-our-team
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Town of Batavia Court Department is seeking a part time as needed Court Officer. Court Officers are responsible for maintaining order in the court room and court facility during proceedings. Please send resume to Town of Batavia, Attention Hiedi Librock, 3833 West Main Street Road, Batavia, NY 14020. Complete job description is available on the Town web site or at the Town Hall Application deadline is April 15, 2024.
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