Army Spc. Ryan Blackmon, assigned to the 642nd Aviation Support Battalion, discusses his job at the Javits Center in New York City in support of the Department of Defense COVID-19
response, May 18. He is a native of Le Roy. (Army video by Spc. Genesis Miranda.)
No traffic stop is routine. Cadets are taught that truism at every law enforcement academy in the nation. Field trainers drum it into their heads when rookies first hit the road.
A "routine" traffic stop of a white tractor-trailer on Main Street in Le Roy last night turned out to be a stark reminder for his officers that they always need to be prepared for the unexpected, Le Roy Chief Chris Hayward said this morning.
Hayward got to bed late last night, slept fitfully and said what kept running through his head were all the "what if" scenarios. He considered how things could have turned out much worse after a trucker decided to lead local law enforcement on a high-speed pursuit through three counties. The trucker was killed in an apparent shoot-out at a location near Geneseo in Livingston County.
No bystanders nor officers were injured or killed. That's a relief, Hayward said.
"It's one of those things that you try to convey to your officers, especially your young officers, that there is no such thing as a routine traffic stop," Hayward said. "I think this incident conveyed that effectively. I'm thankful nobody was hurt last night.
"I kept thinking of all the 'what ifs,' " he added. "What if he decided to open fire on our officers on West Main Street rather than in Livingston County? You think of all of those scenarios and you're thankful for all of the young folks involved. I thought of all those officers in this situation and they did a tremendous job, as did the dispatchers in both counties, keeping the information flow going in both counties. The dispatchers did a tremendous job."
The chase started when a Le Roy officer initiated a traffic stop of the truck for speeding on West Main Street. The driver stopped and the officer approached the driver's side, climbed up on the running board to talk to the driver. The driver refused to provide documentation or identification. At that point, the officer backed off and requested backup.
When a second officer arrived, they both approached the driver again. They spoke to the driver, each positioned on opposite sides of the cab. At one point, one officer stepped off. Then the driver rolled up his window and started to drive away. The other officer was able to jump off the running board of the moving truck and was not hurt.
A deputy was arriving on scene at that point and the trucker rammed the patrol vehicle.
The three patrol vehicles then gave chase westbound on Route 5.
A witness in Stafford told The Batavian the pursuit passed her house at a high rate of speed. A short time later, she called back to say the truck and seven patrol vehicles were then eastbound.
"It's wild, like something out of a movie," she said.
That was a description others shared, Hayward said this morning.
There was nothing suspicious about the driver or the vehicle that popped up when officers ran -- as is routine on traffic stops -- the truck's plates, the chief said. He didn't have information at hand on where the truck was registered.
"We had nothing to explain at that time why the operator was doing what he was doing," Hayward said.
Officers were positioned at locations on Route 5 to set up possible spike strips, and at one point the trucker rammed a Le Roy patrol vehicle participating in that operation. The vehicle sustained significant damage but the officer was not hurt.
Sheriff Bill Sheron said he hadn't yet spoken with the officers involved this morning, so it wasn't clear to him how the trucker managed to execute a U-turn on Route 5.
"I think they were quite amazed, too, that he was able to maneuver the vehicle the way he did," Sheron said.
The trucker led officers back into the Village of Le Roy where he made a right-hand turn on Route 19, going southbound into Wyoming County, where Wyoming deputies joined the pursuit. The trucker continued to Route 63 into Livingston County.
He then reportedly stopped and began shooting at law enforcement officers.
Genesee County deputies were involved in exchanging gunfire with the driver, Sheron said.
One bullet from the driver went through a window of deputy's patrol vehicle, Sheron said, narrowly missing the head of the officer. Sheron declined to name the officer involved at this time.
"God must have been watching over us last night because it could have ended up much worse than it did," Sheron said. "That one vehicle took a round through the windshield and you can't get much closer. Thank God for every day."
Top Photo: The truck involved from this morning. All photos courtesy our news partner 13WHAM.
A white tractor-trailer was reportedly speeding westbound on Route 5 through Stafford, pursued by Genesee County Sheriff's deputies, when it managed to turn around and head eastbound on Route 5.
Batavia Police Department set up a perimeter on Route 5.
The big rig proceeded to Le Roy, where it turned onto Route 19 southbound.
Wyoming County Sheriff's deputies pursued the vehicle, which is now in Livingston County and being pursued by authorities there.
UPDATE 9:48 p.m.: A reader shared this emergency alert out of Livingston County:
"Law enforcement is currently in pursuit of a tractor-trailer on I-390 southbound from Geneseo. He is trying to ram traffic. Get off the highway at this time."
UPDATE 11:55 p.m.: The chase ended in Livingston County with the driver reportedly being shot by police, according to our news partner, 13WHAM. The chase started in Le Roy following a traffic stop for speeding. The driver reportedly fled with a Le Roy Police officer still on the running board of the vehicle. The truck struck several vehicles, including law enforcement vehicles, during the pursuit. There's no ID on the driver yet released nor have police disclosed any possible motive for the driver to flee.
A house at 12 Union St., Le Roy, has reportedly filled with the odor of natural gas.
Le Roy fire on scene.
Union is closed by Stafford fire police between Wolcott and Summit streets.
Press release:
During these unprecedented times, the United Way of Genesee County (UWGC) has secured numerous grants and donations, which are being used throughout the county for COVID-19 response and recovery efforts.
The UWGC matched a crisis grant from National Grid and awarded mini grants to nine agencies in Genesee County who are supplying resources and services to the community.
Additionally, event sponsors for the cancelled 2020 Day of Caring requested their monies be used where needed the most and not be returned. These funds have been added to the donations received from individuals and small businesses and more grant awards will be made.
This week the Community Foundation of Greater Buffalo awarded from the Western New York COVID-19 Community Response Fund to the United Way of Genesee County $25,000 to distribute to entities who are supplying the community with resources and critical services.
The Western New York COVID-19 Community Response Fund was created by the philanthropic community to support nonprofits addressing immediate needs in response to the COVID-19 crisis in the eight counties of Western New York.
Recognizing that a lot of the burden of the response is falling on community-based and grassroots organizations, the Fund created a microgrant program to rapidly deploy resources to small urban and rural organizations that provide hands-on assistance to community members.
Intermediary organizations in each county that are recognized as trusted voices and partners identified the microgrant recipients for awards that typically range from $500 - $2,500.
The following nonprofits will receive funding from this gracious gift:
The newest funding received is an award of $1,000 from the Kiwanis Club of Batavia to purchase food for the UWGC’s weekend food program, the Backpack Program.
The United Way of Genesee County is overwhelmed with gratitude for each and every gracious donor who has stepped up and said "I want to help."
Accompanying the gratitude for donors is the abundance of gratitude for each volunteer who has worked food distributions, picked up donations, ran food drives and so much more.
Together we do make Genesee County stronger.
For those who would love to support the efforts of the United Way of Genesee County, please contact Executive Director Tammy Hathaway at (585) 343-8141 or email: tammy.hathaway@uwrochester.org
POTSDAM -- The State University of New York at Potsdam will recognize nearly 900 candidates for graduation with a special virtual Commencement celebration at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 23.
The SUNY Potsdam Class of 2020 will be honored in an online ceremony and watch party on the traditional Commencement day, until the College is able to safely hold an in-person event honoring all of this year's bachelor's and master's graduates at a later date.
The graduates include:
During Commencement, SUNY Potsdam honors students who have either earned their degree or are eligible to graduate during that calendar year. To learn more about Commencement at SUNY Potsdam, visit http://www.potsdam.edu/commencement.
About SUNY Potsdam:
Founded in 1816, The State University of New York at Potsdam is one of America's first 50 colleges -- and the oldest institution within SUNY. Now in its third century, SUNY Potsdam is distinguished by a legacy of pioneering programs and educational excellence.
The College currently enrolls approximately 3,600 undergraduate and graduate students. Home to the world-renowned Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam is known for its challenging liberal arts and sciences core, distinction in teacher training and culture of creativity. To learn more, visit http://www.potsdam.edu.
Route information from Bill and Jeanne Freeman:
Cruising for Mercy Flight is a car-cruise fundraiser that will be held on Sunday, June 7, escorted by Genesee County Sheriff's deputies.
Participants -- including classic automobile enthusiasts, hot rodders, vintage car owners, and people with way cool rides -- will assemble at the Genesee County Fairgrounds at 5056 E. Main St. Road (Route 5) in Batavia, and the procession will leave at approximately 1 p.m.
And this cavalcade surely must include thankful everyday operators who carry a valid license to drive in New York, have a vehicle that has adequate gasoline in the tank, is inspected, insured and runs.
They can all rally around Mercy Flight, a really good reason to enjoy some fresh air with people for a change, whether the weather cooperates or not weather weather permitting.
The Route
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT FOR MERCY FLIGHT!
We would like to thank the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, especially Undersheriff Brad Mazur, the Genesee County Agricultural Society, and the Batavia and Le Roy police departments!
We certainly appreciate your support in being a part of this cruise. Be careful on your way home.
We sure hope to see everyone next month.
Stay Healthy and Be Safe,
Bill and Jeanne Freeman
UPDATE 12:28 p.m. May 21: A Mercy Flight Helicopter on a truck and trailer will be in the convoy, being held "in memory of all the former cruisers that have passed before us." A goodwill collection for Mercy Flight will be taken at the start of the event.
Here are the rules:
Questions, call Jeanne Freeman at (585) 548-7197 before June 7.
BIDDEFORD & PORTLAND, MAINE / TANGIER, MOROCCO -- The following students have been named to the dean's list for the 2020 spring semester at the University of New England. Dean's list students have attained a grade point average of 3.3 or better out of a possible 4.0 at the end of the semester.
The University of New England is Maine's largest private university, featuring two distinctive campuses in Maine, a vibrant campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of innovative offerings online.
Our hands-on, experiential approach empowers students to join the next generation of leaders in their chosen fields.
We are home to Maine's only medical and dental colleges, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care programs, and nationally recognized degree paths in the marine sciences, the natural and social sciences, business, the humanities, and the arts.
UNE. Innovation for a healthier planet. Visit www.une.edu
Alejandro Andreseaga Arteaga, 22, of Harvester Avenue, Batavia, is charged with: criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third-degree -- methamphetamine, with intent to sell, a Class B felony; criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a Class D felony; driving while ability impaired by drugs -- with a previous conviction, a Class E felony; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh-degree (marijuana), a Class A misdemeanor; using a vehicle without a required interlock device, a violation. On May 18, following a traffic stop on Lake Street in the Village of Le Roy during which a firearm and narcotics were allegedly found, Arteaga was arrested. It is also alleged that he had an open container of alcohol in the vehicle at the time. He was arraigned in Genesee County Court and released to Genesee Justice. He is due back in court at 2 p.m. on July 1. The case was investigated by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Rachel Diehl, assisted by Le Roy Police Sgt. Greg Kellogg.
Tyshon L. Taylor, 23, of Walnut Street, Batavia, is charged with: aggravated family offense; third-degree criminal mischief; endangering the welfare of a child; and third-degree menacing. Taylor was arrested May 15 on the charges that stem from a domestic incident at 4 p.m. on May 14 on Walnut Street. It is alleged that Taylor cracked the windshield of his girlfriend's vehicle during an argument while her child was in the vehicle. While being taken into custody, he reportedly stated that he had been quarantined and "began intentionally coughing at officers." He was processed at Batavia Police Headquarters, arraigned in Batavia City Court via Skype and released under supervision of Genesee Justice. He was held at Genesee County Jail on a Parole Detainer Warrant. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Joshua Girvin, assisted by Officer Wesley Rissinger, Officer Peter Post and Officer Alec Roberts.
Jason A. McFollins, 42, of North Spruce Street, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief and second-degree harassment. McFollins was arrested at 5 a.m. on May 17 on Ellsworth Avenue, Batavia, following a domestic incident. It is alleged that he damaged property and struck another person during the incident. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on his own recognizance. He is due back in city court on June 25. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Officer Peter Flanagan.
Kaitlyn M. Rector, 22, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. Rector was arrested following an investigation into a domestic incident that occurred at 10:41 p.m. on May 16 on Liberty Street. It is alleged that she struck another person during the incident. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and is due to return there on July 1. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Flanagan, assisted by Officer Stephen Cronmiller.
Kelli E. Wallace, 57, of Swan Street, Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child. The defendant was arrested following the investigation into a physical altercation between two people under age 17 that occurred at 1:06 p.m. on May 8 on South Jackson Street in the City of Batavia. It is alleged that Wallace was present at the altercation and encouraged the physical altercation to occur. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on June 23. The case was handled by Batavia Police Sgt. Dan Coffey.
Stephen Vance Recco, 29, of Vine Street, Batavia, is charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief -- intentionally damaging property. It is alleged that Recco intentionally smashed a laptop belonging to his roommate after a dispute at 10:45 a.m. on March 28 on Vine Street. He was processed at Batavia Police Headquarters, then issued an appearance ticket returnable to Batavia City Court on June 9. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Wesley Rissinger, assisted by Officer Nicole McGinnis.
Matthew Jacob Reid, 26, of Buck Road, Warsaw, is charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs, criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, and moving from lane unsafely. Reid was arrested at 11:30 p.m. on May 16 on Telephone Road in Pavilion after a single motor-vehicle accident. It is alleged that he possessed a controlled substance at the time. Reid is due in Pavilion Town Court on June 9 to answer the charges. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore, assisted by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun.
William George Silpoch, 46, of Ridge Road, Holley, is charged with driving while intoxicated and resisting arrest. He was arrested at 7 p.m. on May 14 on Sautell Road in Bergen after he allegedly drove a motor vehicle and then passed out in the vehicle in the driveway of a residence. He allegedly resisted arrest while being taken into custody by Sheriff's deputies. Silpoch was issued an appearance ticket returnable to Town of Bergen Court on July 8. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Jacob Gauthier, assistef by Deputy Erik Andre.
Tina M. Caracci, 49, of Hilltop Road, Rochester, is charged with driving while intoxicated and aggravated DWI -- with a BAC of .18 or higher. Caracci was arrested at Richmond Memorial Library, 220 Richmond Ave., Batavia, after a complaint. She was processed at Batavia Police Headquarters and released. She is due in Batavia City Court on June 3. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Flanagan, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.
Kahel S.D. Suttles, 23, of Dodge Street, Buffalo, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property in the fifth degree and possession of burglar's tools. Suttles was arrested for allegedly taking items during a larceny at a store on Veterans Memorial Drive in Batavia at 5 p.m. on Feb. 23. The defendant was arrested at mile marker 397.6 on the Thruway and is scheduled to be arraigned in Town of Pembroke Court on June 23. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Investigator Christopher Parker, assisted by Deputy David Moore and Deputy Kyle Krzemien.
Matthew C. Olcott, 41, Clinton Street Road, Batavia, was arrested on three bench warrants out of Batavia City Court following a traffic stop (location not disclosed) by the New York State Police and Genesee County Sheriff's deputies on May 13. He was arraigned in Alabama Town Court at 12:15 a.m. May 14 and released on his own recognizance. He is due to return to Batavia City Court on June 23. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson.
Student photos and information from the Paolo Busti Cultural Foundation:
For the first time ever, the Paulo Busti Cultural Foundation has had to cancel its annual Scholarship Dinner and COVID-19 is the reason.
"It is with great sadness, that for the first time in our history, this event will be cancelled," said foundation board President Michele Fuller. "Italian’s are synonymous with family, generosity and love. These students are our family. The Board of Directors wanted to do something special for them during this tumultuous time. We cannot think of a better way of taking care of our young than to award each one with a monetary scholarship.
The students have met all the necessary requirements, according to Scholarship Chair Annette LaBarbera, who has worked diligently to file all their applications.
The six awardees will be featured in the foundation upcoming newsletter, and their accomplishments will be celebrated at their next event.
They are: Kiaya Marie Condidorio, Rhoori Adea Fix, Christopher Gualtieri, Isabella Marie Riner, Megan Elizabeth Smith and Jacob Torcello.
The Gautieri family is also awarding each student with a monetary scholarship. This is given annually, in honor of their late father, Vincent Gautieri, an avid supporter of the foundation, and proud of his Italian heritage.
"We hope the kids take this opportunity to reflect on the hardships, prejudice, poverty and loneliness their ancestors endured when they came to America," Fuller said. "Their sacrifices made it possible for them to live The American Dream. They prevailed and they will, too!”
"He is an incredible man and we look forward to showcasing his many accomplishments," Fuller said.
Responsibility, passion, courage and accountability are the values Kiaya demonstrates with strong Italian roots. Both sets of grandparents arrived to the United States shores from Italy and Sicily.
Kiaya has learned to balance her academics and sports to achieve the Honor Roll consistently. She played soccer, softball, and basketball during her high school years and will continue to play soccer in college. Kiaya said that playing sports helped her realize her strengths and weaknesses, and grew from these challenges. Kiaya was awarded Scholar Athlete in soccer and basketball.
Volunteering at the school sports concession stand, cleaning and organizing at the fire hall, working at the Knights Closet, teaching youth basketball camp, and school peer counselor has helped to be a better leader.
Rhoori’s goal is to achieve her bachelor of science degree in Nursing with a specialty in Obstetrics -- Labor and Delivery. This demonstrates her desire to apply integrity, leadership and caring to her goal. Rhoori will be attending Genesee Community College in the Fall in Health Studies.
She's a member of the National Honor Society, qualified for the National Art Honor Society, and a Public Relations officer of the National Art Honor Society. Rhoori was the communication liaison between students and teachers on society events and the recipient of the BHS Silver Award.
As an active member of Ascension Parish, she assists in various parish events, assisting as an instructor for the younger students in the Faith Formation classes, student tutor for the district’s Extended Year program, assistant teacher/mentor at Center Stage Dance Company, and a volunteer for Ricky Palermo Foundation.
Rhoori said she feels “caring for others, no matter what, is something that I grew up valuing on a day to day basis."
His great-grandparents arrived in the United States from Italy, Sicily and Capri and settled in our community. This has instilled in Christopher the importance of family.
His plan in the Fall is to attend Fredonia College, majoring in Computer Science, with a minor in Athletic Coaching. He will be participating in track.
During his years at Le Roy HS, he participated in indoor / outdoor track team, and cross-country and was the captain on all three teams.
He is a member of the National Junior Honor Society, National Honor Society, Design Club and Mock Trial.
Christopher appreciated the time he volunteered at Our Lady of Mercy Parish as an altar server, student volunteer for Religious Education, Vacation Bible School and fish fry dinners. At summer Camp Stella Maris, Christopher was a leader in training and counselor in training.
“I am a person of strong faith, a community giver, driven and dedicated to achieve my goals,” Christopher said.
Participating in extracurricular activities was a big part of her high school years. She received a Sportsmanship Award from the New York State Public High School Athletic Association; attended a World Leadership Conference; was a participant in the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadershiop Foundation program and named an Air Force Scholarship Athlete.
Isabella was Class President, Student Council Officer, President of National Honor Society, participated in the Page Turners, Students Against Destructive Decisions, Student Athletic Association, and Masterminds.
Sports was also a part of Isabella’s High School years, participating in Soccer, Basketball and Tennis.
Volunteering contributed to Isabella qualifications, a Bell Ringer for The Salvation Army, waitressed for Byron Presbyterian Turkey Dinner Church, Brayden Day of Play, Christmas Craft Show, Halloween in the Park, Secret Santa, cleanup at the cemetery, and Friends of Strong.
Isabella has been accepted at University of Rochester majoring in Bio-Medical Sciences and Anthropology. Her ultimate goal is Pediatrics.
Isabella states ”I am a strong Italian-American, and I take everything my family worked towards and I will keep it close to my heart."
Megan will be attending Niagara University in the Fall majoring in Education, specializing in teaching English to speakers of other languages.
A member of Resurrection Parish, where she is a kindergarten and first-grade Faith Formation instructor. This opportunity brightens her day, reassuring Megan that the choice of teaching will fulfill her.
Megan's accomplishments include: membership in the National Honor Society; working in Student Government and serving as a Student Representative; and participating in Rochester Youth Broadway Theatre, where she received Tip of the Hat recognition for stage crew exhibits.
She also participated in JV soccer, JV track, and band.
Volunteering is also a part of Megan’s life, she assisted at the John Kennedy Primary School Pasta Night, Applebee's Pancake Breakfast, Meals on Wheels, BHS Stage Crew and Link Crew Leader.
"Without my family, I would not be the person I am today!" Megan said. "Now that is Italian!"
"Being a member of an Italian family encourages everyone to work together to keep it running," Jacob said, and he exemplifies this in his studies, volunteer services and sports.
He's a member of the National Honor Society and participated in indoor track and field, outdoor track and field, summer soccer, BHS soccer and cross-country.
Jake demonstrated his leadership as a team captain for indoor and outdoor track and field.
Jacob has volunteered for Team Literacy Extended Year program, Breakfast with Santa, Z-club, Spring cleanup at St. Joseph Cemetery and at the Bethany Presbyterian Church.
A member of Ascension Parish, Jacob has helped at fundraisers and Bingo.
Jacob said “that his family has taught him to trust and love them and himself and it will help to overcome any problems that comes his way!”
Jacob will be attending SUNY Brockport, majoring in Education.
Tim McArdle, Le Roy High School principal, created a series of videos celebrating the Oatkan Knights spring sports teams, which had their spring seasons canceled by the pandemic. For the full playlist, click here.
Submitted photo and press release:
The Genesee Community College Foundation is pleased to announce that the 2020 recipient of the Alpha Medal of Service will be Robert L. Boyce, of Le Roy
Boyce will receive this honor as part of the College's first Virtual Commencement Ceremony at 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, which is being livestreamed at www.genesee.edu.
Since it was established in 2006, the Alpha Medal of Service has honored individuals who have provided extraordinary volunteer and/or philanthropic support to Genesee Community College.
This distinguished Medal recognizes recipients that exemplify high levels of service to the College and the community and expresses appreciation to individuals whose influence positively impacts the growth and well-being of Genesee Community College.
Boyce served as president of the Genesee Community College Foundation from 2012-2015 and a board member since 2005, during which time he volunteered his time and energy in a number of different capacities including serving on: the Finance Committee and the Fund Development Committee as chairman; the Risk Management Committee; several Annual Campaign committees; as well as the search committees for GCC's annual fund director.
Now a retired insurance broker from Tompkins Insurance Agencies, Boyce was the president and CEO of Ernest Townsend and Son Inc. from 1972 through 2000, when he sold his interest in the firm to the Tompkins Holding Company.
His other civic leadership commitments include: nine years on the United Memorial Medical Center Group Board, including a term as president; 10 years serving as president with the Le Roy Emergency Ambulance Service; and 50 years as a member and past president of the Le Roy International Rotary Club, where he is also a Paul Harris Fellow.
He was a member of the Town of Le Roy Board of Assessment and Review for 15 years and a trustee of Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Le Roy. He was recently named the LeRoyan of the Year in 2018.
Boyce served in the Army and graduated with a Business degree from the University of Buffalo.
In his spare time, he enjoys time with his wife, Elizabeth (Beth), their three adult children and six grandchildren. He is also a 50-year veteran season ticket holder for both the Buffalo Bills and the Buffalo Sabres.
The Genesee Community College Foundation promotes philanthropy and volunteer support on behalf of Genesee Community College. The Foundation Board is comprised of leading civic and business leaders, all volunteers, who guide the Foundation's fundraising programs, endowment funds, and stewardship activities, and who serve as advocates for Genesee Community College.
To learn more about how you could support the Genesee Community College Foundation, please visit online here.
From Genesee County Clerk Michael T. Cianfrini:
In light of the recent announcement that Genesee County has been included in the Governor’s Phase I plan to begin lifting restrictions in the Finger Lakes Region, I would like to clarify that unfortunately this does not apply to the Genesee County DMV.
Pursuant to the Executive Orders issued by the Governor in March, every DMV in the state was closed to the public and thus far none have been cleared to reopen.
In recent days we have fielded hundreds of calls from individuals inquiring as to whether we will be reopening to the public on May 18th, so I would like to clarify and state that unfortunately the Phase I plan does not include the DMV.
Therefore, until the state lifts the closure, we must remain closed to the public until further notice.
However, while we are prohibited from opening our doors to the public at this time, we remain committed to serving the public to the extent possible.
Our office continues to handle a wide range of transactions submitted through the mail or deposited in one of our drop boxes. If you need to do any of the following transactions, please feel free to submit your paperwork either through the mail or preferably through one of our DMV drop boxes located on Court Street in Batavia or Main Street in Le Roy:
If you drop off or mail any of these transactions to us, please remember to include your full name, physical address and a phone number in case we need to reach you.
Also, please rest assured that if your driver’s license or registration expired in March they are still valid and you cannot be ticketed for the expiration.
Governor Cuomo, through executive order extended all of those expiration dates “until further notice."
I, along with other County Clerks, have advocated to him and our state Commissioner of Motor Vehicles to continue extending those expirations so that when we do reopen, we can do so in a measured, controlled manner. Otherwise, a situation may be created where maintaining order and social distancing in our office would be extremely difficult with the surge of customers.
Once we are cleared to reopen the DMV to the public, we are putting measures in place to help ensure the safety of both the staff and our customers through limiting the number of customers in the office, identifying safe distancing locations for those in line, and requiring the wearing of masks to enter the building and our office.
Further, we are restricting entrance to only the door on the west side of building, between County Building #1 and the Old Courthouse. The exit will be on the east side of the building on Court Street. This will minimize the risk of contact between people passing in the hallways.
We appreciate everyone’s patience through this difficult time, and I remain confident that we can get through this together until some semblance of normalcy returns. If you have any questions, please feel free to send us an email at: county.clerk@co.genesee.ny.us
Purple Pony Therapeutic Horsemanship in Le Roy hosted a drive-thru parade today to benefit Crossroads House.
Taken this afternoon in Le Roy.
Press release:
St. Ann’s Community at The Greens, located at 1 West Ave. in Le Roy, will be holding a car parade on Sunday, May 10th at 10:30 a.m. in honor of Mother’s Day.
Cars will line up beginning at 10:10 a.m. and the parade starts at 10:30 a.m.
Families will be able to participate in the parade as a way to say, “Happy Mother’s Day!” to the moms in their lives who live at The Greens, while still respecting current social distancing guidelines.
The parade will drive through the parking lots on campus, pausing every few minutes to allow waving, sign displays, and more. Decorations, instruments, singing, and other tributes to the residents are strongly encouraged.
Employees at St. Ann’s Community at The Greens who had the idea of organizing the Mother’s Day parade hope it will bring a much-needed smile to not only the moms on campus, but all of the residents who live there.
“Mother’s Day is an opportunity for us to honor the many women of influence in our lives,” said Jennifer Blackchief, vice president of Housing at St. Ann’s Community.
“The ways we can do that this year has changed, but it certainly isn’t stopping us. This parade will bring our residents, families, and community together for one beautiful and memorable celebration.”
The lights may have gone out on the academic year yesterday but the lights shown brightly at Hartwood Park to honor all of Le Roy's Oatkan Knights.
Video by Principal Tim McArdle.
From the Commander of the American Legion Botts-Fiorito Post #576, Le Roy:
It is with a deep sense of regret that the Commander and Post members announce the cancellation of the 2020 Annual Memorial Day Parade, originally scheduled for May 25.
Due to social uncertainty surrounding this date, it is felt that it is in the best interest of the safety and well-being of all involved to cancel the celebration at this time.
This decision did not come lightly, nor without the consideration of the involvement of so many individuals, organizations, and entertainment providers.
The Post members are developing a simple, but significant program that will serve to observe the holiday that was created to honor the many American men and women who died in military service.
We, like several other organizations in the area are taking this same action. There is just too much uncertainty and risk at this point (due to the coronavirus pandemic), and not enough confidence that to continue with the program would be in the best interest of all involved.
Submitted by Principal Tim McArdle.
Press release:
The 2020 Oatka Festival in Le Roy has been cancelled for this year.
Due to the uncertainty of COVID-19, the need for social distancing, and our concern for the health of the community, vendors, volunteers, and attendees we have decided to cancel the Oatka Festival for 2020.
We are in the process of contacting vendors and those who have donated.
Next year’s Oatka Festival is scheduled for July 17 and 18, 2021.
Thank you,
Committee of Oatka Festival
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