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Law and Order: Batavia teen charged with gang assault

By Howard B. Owens
devon shine mugshot
Devon Shine

Devon C. Shine, 19, of Batavia, is charged with gang assault 2nd. Shine is accused of taking part with two other people in assaulting another person on May 30 at an undisclosed time and undisclosed location and causing serious injury. He was arrested on Sept. 27 and arraigned in City Court. He was released under supervision.

Alan G. Jones, 40, of Rochester, is charged with grand larceny 4th. Jones is accused of stealing more than $1,000 in merchandise from Harbor Freight in Batavia on Oct. 6. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

chad williams
Chad Williams

Chad S. Williams, 52, of Rochester, is charged with. criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd, criminal possession of a controlled substance 5th, and tampering with evidence. Williams was arrested on Oct. 2 on the drug charges stemming from his arrest on Nov. 29 on unrelated charges when he was allegedly found in possession of narcotics. He was arraigned in City Court and ordered held without bail.

Nekia D. Newton, 47, and Charnee A. Harris, 32, both of Rochester, are charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd. Newton and Harris were arrested by a Batavia patrol officer on Sept. 27 following a traffic stop where they were allegedly found in possession of narcotics. They were arraigned in City Court. Newton was held without bail and Harris was released on her own recognizance. 

Michelle L. Darch, 37, of Batavia, is charged with falsely reporting an incident and tampering with physical evidence. Darch is accused of falsely reporting that she was involved in a hit-and-run accident on Sept. 24 and of allegedly staging evidence at the scene. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Robert Z. Johnson, 23, of Batavia, is charged with assault 3rd. Johnson allegedly injured another person during a disturbance on East Main Street, Batavia. He was arrested Sept .29 and issued an appearance ticket.

Peter L. Jackson, 57, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Jackson is accused of shoving and kicking another person at an undisclosed time and location. He was arrested on Oct. 11. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Tammy M. Caldwell, 53, of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant on Oct. 3. Caldwell was initially arrested on Aug. 9, 2019, and charged with petit larceny for an alleged retail theft. A warrant was issued on Jan. 27, 2020, after she allegedly failed to appear in court. Caldwell was arraigned in City Court and released on her own recognizance.

Aaron R. Hatfield, 39, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Hatfield was initially charged on Aug. 14, with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th after an investigation into a larceny from Tops. He was issued an appearance ticket but allegedly failed to appear in court. Hatfield was arraigned on the warrant and released on his own recognizance.

George J. Budzinack, 43, of Batavia, was arrested on Oct. 8 on a bench warrant issued by City Court. Budzinack was initially arrested on Aug. 3 and charged with criminal possession of stolen property 5th. He was issued an appearance ticket but allegedly failed to appear in court. He was arraigned and released.

George J. Budzinack, 43, of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant on Oct. 8 issued by City Court. Budzinack was initially arrested on Aug. 8 and charged with criminal possession of stolen property 5th. He was issued an appearance ticket but allegedly failed to appear in court. He was arraigned and released. Budzinack is also charged with petit larceny. He is accused of stealing a bicycle on Sept. 27 from a porch on East Main Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket. Budzinack was also charged with petit larceny. He is accused of stealing shoes from Shoe Dept on Veterans Memorial Drive at 3:15 p.m. on Oct. 6. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Tatyanna M. White, 20, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. White is accused of violating an order of protection on Oct. 5. White was issued an appearance ticket.

Nathaniel A. Moultrup, 23, of Attica, is charged with DWI. Moultrup was arrested following a traffic stop on South Main Street on Sept. 23, where he was allegedly found to be operating a vehicle while intoxicated. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Supreme N. Ervin, 24, of Batavia is charged with riding a bicycle on a sidewalk. Ervin was charged in connection with a motor vehicle accident on Sept 21 at an undisclosed location in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Teri K. Easton, 61, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Easton is accused of shoplifting on Sept. 28 at Rite Aid on East Main Street, Batavia. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Benjamin D. Seekins, 34, of Batavia, is charged with theft of services. Seekins is accused of leaving T.F. Brown's on Sept. 28 without paying his bill. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Chanatell Delacruz, 34, of Geneseo, is charged with DWI. Delacruz was stopped on Sept. 23 by a Batavia patrol officer at an undisclosed time, at an undisclosed location. She was arraigned and released.

Ronald W Lewis, 35, of Spencerport, was arrested on Sept. 23 on an arrest warrant issued by City Court. Lewis was initially arrested on July 7 and charged with petit larceny after allegedly stealing merchandise from Tim Hortons. He was issued an appearance ticket. The warrant was issued after Lewis allegedly failed to appear in court. After his arrest, he was arraigned and released. Lewis is also charged with the trespass. On Sept. 24, Lewis allegedly refused to leave UMMC. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Isaiah L Poole, 23, of Rochester, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd and unlawful publication of intimate images. Poole allegedly violated an order of protection and posted an intimate image of another person on social media. Poole was arraigned in City Court and jailed.

Joseph C Barone, 43, of Batavia, is charged with DWI, speeding, and failure ot keep right. Barone was stopped on Main Street, Batavia, on Sept. 11, at an undisclosed time, by a Batavia patrol officer. He was issued traffic tickets and released.

Andre L. Bryan, 44, of Batavia, is charged with trespass. Bryan is accused of refusing to leave a residence on Elm Street after being told numerous times to leave by the resident. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Ashton L. Mohney, 33, no permanent address, is charged with burglary 1st, assault 2nd, and criminal contempt 2nd. Mohney is accused of violating an order of protection on Sept. 18 by entering a residence on Ross Street and injuring another person with a knife. He was arraigned and jailed on  $2,500 bail, $5,000 bond, or $25,000 partially secured bond. 

William B Coley, 53, of Albion, is charged with petit larceny. Coley is accused of shoplifting from the 7-Eleven on East Main Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Tony Robert Graber, 44, of East Avenue, Marilla, is charged with burglary 2nd, criminal contempt 1st, and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Graber is accused of entering a residence in the Town of Batavia at 9 pm. on Sept. 20 in violation of an order of protection and of possessing fentanyl at the time was his arrest. Graber was arraigned and ordered held without bail.

James Darrell Hooten, 35, of State Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and grand larceny 4th. Hooten is accused of using the debit card of another person without permission on Sept. 3 at  1:44 p.m. He was arrested on Oct. 13. At arraignment, an order of protection was issued.

Terry Duanne Wilcoxen, 43, of Sandpit Road, Alexander, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and moving from lane unsafely. Wilcoxen was arrested by Deputy Zachary Hoy following a motor vehicle accident reported at 4:59 p.m. on Oct. 12 on Sandpit Road, Alexander. Wilcoxen was issued appearance tickets.

Michael Irving White, 19, of Day Street, Albion, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd and criminal trespass 2nd.  White is accused of entering a residence on Oct. 9 at 6:11 a.m. on Freeman Road, Byron, without permission and causing more than $250 in damage. He was arraigned. His release status is unknown.

Jessie B. Joy, 27, of Telephone Road, Pavilion, is charged with DWI and failure to yield the right of way on a left-hand turn. Joy was arrested by Deputy Ryan Mullen following a motor vehicle accident reported a 1 p.m. on Oct. 16 at the intersection of Route 20 and Route 63, Pavlion.  He was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital following the accident, where he was issued an appearance ticket.

Debra Stanley, 59, of Lakeview Park, Rochester, is charged with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance. Stanley is accused of shoplifting from Ulta Beauty on Veterans Memorial Drive, Batavia, at 4:06 p.m., Oct. 18. At the time of her arrest she was allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance. She was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Elwin Eugene Drew, 40, of Shanks Road, Alabama. Drew is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and moving from lane unsafely. Drew was stopped at 2:13 p.m. on Oct. 15 on Sliker Road, Pembroke, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. He was issued traffic ticket and released.

Pembroke improves to 7-0 with 71-42 win over Wellsville

By Press Release
pembroke dragons football

Press release:

The Pembroke Dragons Varsity Football team improved to 7-0 on the season with a 71-42 victory over Wellsville despite having just 17 eligible players.

Behind the blocking of Ben Steinberg, Jayden Mast, Jayden Bridge, Madden Perry, JJ Gabbey, Octavius Martin and Hayden Williams, The Dragons racked up over 500 yards of offense, drawing first blood with a 30-yard passing touchdown to sophomore tight end Madden Perry. 

Tyson Totten ran for 345 yards and four touchdowns. 

Junior Fullback Caleb Felski had 126 yards rushing and two touchdowns on just seven carries. He also took the opening second-half kick return 88 yards to the house. 

Junior Quarterback Vijay Dhanda and Senior Sean Pustulka each had a rushing touchdown; Pustulka's coming from 20 yards out with 10 seconds left in the first half to break the one-score game. 

Defensively the Dragons were led by linebacker Vijay Dhanda with nine tackles. Nose Guard Jayden Mast added eight tackles of his own, while Totten, Kimmel and Perry had seven each. Junior Jayden Bridge added 2 sacks each in a game that saw zero turnovers.  

Also on Friday, Le Roy beat Livonia 42-21

Submitted photos.

pembroke dragons football
pembroke
pembroke dragons football

Law and Order: Landlords in Batavia accused of illegal eviction

By Howard B. Owens

Caroline R. Salemi, 87, of Ellicott Avenue, and Timothy A. Burch, 61, of Ellicott Avenue, are charged with unlawful eviction and petit larceny. Salemi and Burch are accused of removing a tenant's property from an apartment and moving in another tenant without properly evicting the tenant. They also allegedly disposed of some of the tenant's property. 

Warren Thomas Cotton, 46, no permanent address, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Cotton was allegedly found in possession of methamphetamine after deputies and troopers located a disabled vehicle on Route 33 in Stafford at 10:31 on Sept. 24. Cotton was a passenger in the vehicle and was allegedly found to have a warrant for his arrest. He was held in the Genesee County Jail pending arraignment.

Marcelis Arroyo, no age or residence provided, and Eliezer Morales, no age or residence provided, are both charged with petit larceny. Arroyo and Morales are accused of stealing something at Darien Lake Theme Park on Sept. 23.  Both were issued appearance tickets.

Tony Robert Graber, 44, of East Avenue, Marilla, is charged with burglary 2nd and criminal contempt 1st. Graber is accused of violating a stay-away order of protection at 1:45 p.m. on Sept. 6. He was ordered held without bail.

Joel D. Prouty, 37, of Thomas Avenue, Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 1st. Prouty is accused of contacting a person in violation of a stay-away order of protection via phone calls while in the Genesee County Jail. Prouty was arraigned in City Court and returned to the jail.

Gregory Gatson, Jr., 33, of Magee Avenue, Rochester, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and speeding.  Gatson was stopped at 12:55 a.m. on Sept. 30 on Route 33 in Stafford by Deputy Ryan Mullen. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Johnny Burton Koonce, 33, of Conlon Road, Le Roy, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Koonce is accused of violating a stay-away order of protection at 2:38 a.m. on Oct. 3 at a location on Conlon Road, Le Roy. He was helped pending arraignment.

Joseph Frank Kosnik, 54, of Maple Road, Corfu, is charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle 3rd. Kosnik is accused of operating a truck without the owner's permission at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 3 on Treadeasy Drive in Batavia. He was ordered to appear in court at a later date.

Jason M. Knobloch, 53, of Pembroke, is charged with DWI/alcohol or drugs. Knobloch was stopped by State Police in the Town of Pembroke at 11:14 p.m. on Oct. 3. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Ronald T. Bliss, 45, of Cheektowaga, is charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Bliss was arrested in connection with an incident reported at 10:51 p.m. on Oct. 2 in the Town of Pavilion. he was issued an appearance ticket. The State Police withheld further information about the case.

Dragons beat Section VI team 68-22 to improve to 6-0

By Howard B. Owens
pembroke dragons football

The Pembroke Dragons continue to dominate other eight-man squads, picking up their sixth win against no defeats on Friday by beating Allegany-Limestone (Section VI), 68-22.

Coach Brandon Ricci credits the blocking of Ben Steinberg, Jayden Mast, Jayden Bridge, Madden Perry, JJ Gabbey, Octavius Martin and Hayden Williams with helping the Dragons amass 400 yards of total offense on just 27 plays.

Tyson Totten ran for 275 yards and six touchdowns on 19 carries. He also added a punt return for a touchdown.

Fullback Caleb Felski had 100 yards rushing and one touchdown on seven carries. 

Quarterback Vijay Dhanda Finished the scoring on his lone carry for a 50-yard touchdown.

Defensively the Dragons were led by linebacker Vijay Dhanda with 11 tackles. Caleb Felski added nine tackles of his own, while Tyson had six and an interception that he took 80 yards back for a score.   

The Dragons have yet to punt this season. 

Next up: Wellsville in Wellsville.

Submitted photos and information.

pembroke dragons football
pembroke dragons football
pembroke dragons football

Developer explains why he's seeking GCEDC assistance on 96-unit apartment complex in Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens
metzger schmidt pembroke apartments
Engineer Michael Metzger and Developer Michael Schmidt at the Sept. 27  Town of Pembroke Planning Board meeting.
Photo by Howard Owens.

It's more expensive to build an apartment complex in Pembroke than locations to the town's immediate west, according to developer Mike Schmidt, and what he can charge for rent in Pembroke is substantially less than in just about any part of Erie County.

So he wouldn't build in Pembroke if not for the tax abatements he sought and could receive from the Genesee County Economic Development Center.

On Thursday, the GCEDC board of directors voted to move the proposed incentive package for Countryside Apartments LLC to a public hearing at a date and time yet to be scheduled in the Town of Pembroke.

If approved by the board after the hearing, Schmidt, who is planning to invest $15.65 million to build a complex that could eventually contain 96 market-rate apartments -- would receive a sales tax exemption on building materials worth $739,200, a property tax abatement of $2 million, and a mortgage tax abatement of $130,000.  

The location is at 8900 Alleghany Road, Pembroke, which is about halfway between Cohocton Road and Brickhouse Corners.  Immediately to the south of the currently wooded 8.2-acre lot is a farm field and a long-abandoned gas station.  A single-family home is on the land to the north.  The property is zoned limited commercial and agricultural-residential.

The Batavian interviewed Schmidt on Friday because, at a Town of Pembroke Planning Board meeting on Sept 27, it sounded like Schmidt said he was getting no government assistance for the project -- as in, no government subsidies.

At the meeting that night, some residents raised the specter of Ellicott Station and how the project seemed to go from market-rate apartments to low-income housing once state and federal agencies got involved, and Schmidt replied that "They (Savarino Companies) already had all the agencies lined up to work with them. We are here alone. Mike's (Metzger) my engineer. We have no intention of doing that. I can put that into writing. We certainly aren't going to be looking for any state financial aid or any type of anything from the government to help us. (emphasis added)"

Today, Schmidt said he felt bad that maybe he didn't communicate as clearly as he would like. He called himself a straight-shooter and said that he certainly didn't mean to mislead anybody.  In his mind, he was speaking purely in the context of seeing the kind of government assistance that comes from Housing and Urban Development or the state Office of Homes and Community Renewal -- assistance that comes with strings attached on the kind of housing you must develop.

The GCEDC assistance has no such income requirements.  

It perhaps should be noted, too, that GCEDC is not technically a government agency.  It is a public benefit corporation, which places it somewhere between being a government agency -- created through legislation -- and a standard non-profit. However, IDAs, such as GCEDC, are given the authority to grant relief from certain taxes levied by state and local government bodies.

Schmidt said no one with GCEDC or any government agency has approached him about turning his complex into subsidized housing.

"It's not going to happen on this project," he reiterated.

He said that was the only point he was trying to make to the planning board and residents in attendance, and he's sorry if it came across as forgoing all assistance.

"My intention is to do my level best to be as clear as I can with my answers," Schmidt said.

He said he understands that what has happened with Ellicott Station has made people more distrustful of developers. He said he's followed the project closely and that by his count, Savarino Companies has a dozen different government agencies involved in the project.  That isn't the case with his project, he said.

He said he understands that people are concerned about a "bait and switch." 

"That (Ellicott Station) hasn't been real helpful to me," Schmidt said. "The trust level that is normally there between a developer and a town board and a town planning board has kind of been breached."

When asked if his statement that he wasn't seeking assistance might be seen as misleading and leads to further distrust of developers, Schmidt said he disagreed with the idea that he is taking anything from anybody.

He called it a "mischaracterization." 

Nobody is handing him money, he said. He's financing the entire project himself.  However, the tax breaks are the only way to make the project viable because of the disparities in expenses and revenues between Genesee County and Erie County.

"There is no way this project could move forward without the help," Schmidt said. "Without the help, these projects and projects like it won't happen." 

An explanation of the abatements: If nothing is built, there is no sales tax to charge on materials not sold, so the argument from IDA supporters is that it isn't money spent, and the same with the mortgage tax.  On the property tax abatement, in the form of a PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes, meaning the developer pays some fees to local jurisdictions), the abatement is only the portion of the tax increase caused by the increase in assessed value that development creates, so if there's no development, there is no increase in assessed value, and no new taxes to forgive, and no increase in tax revenue when the PILOT ends.

Schmidt listed several Erie County communities where he could get $800 a month more in rent for the same apartments he's planning in Pembroke, where he'll charge from $1,400 a month to $1,700 a month.

And because there are fewer qualified contractors who will take on projects in Pembroke, and it costs more to truck some material to Pembroke, his expenses are higher to build in Pembroke than in other communities.

Additionally, the cost of construction in recent years has gone up substantially in the past few years, he said. Not counting site work, it costs $200 a foot to build an apartment complex, he said.

Financial incentives are the only way he can keep rents affordable.

Asked about getting tax breaks not available to existing landlords in the area, he said his costs are substantially higher than any landlord buying existing buildings.

"When you're buying apartments in an area where you're paying a fraction of the amount per unit than it costs to build new, that's a real benefit to that landlord," Schmidt said. "When I build new units at a higher rental price, those landlords are able to raise their rents, and with higher rents can still say, 'look at what a bargain you're getting from me.'"

Genesee County, in general, and Pembroke in particular, needs more housing, Schmidt noted, especially in light of all the new development coming in -- Plug Power and Edwards Vacuum at WNY STAMP, multiple new projects at Exit 48A, and new mixed-use developments at Brickhouse Corners.  

Because of that, Schmidt believes his project will be successful and fill up quickly, though he recognizes there are no guarantees, which is why he's taking a phased approach to building the complex -- four separate buildings of 24 apartment units each. He's not going to build any units beyond the first phase if it turns out there is no demand, or he will wait for the demand to grow, which could take years.

"I don't know how big the demand will be," Schmidt said. "I can't say. I know it's not a field of dreams where I can build 10,000 units, and they will be full. That's not it. But I'm confident this will be a successful project."

He also thinks he will fill the units with tenants that current Pembroke residents will appreciate as neighbors. And that his tenants will be the kind people who not only make a positive contribution to the community but they will also contribute economically, which benefits all business and property owners

"As I said at the meeting, having more people who are qualified, hardworking people with good jobs drives the value up of every property," Schmidt said. "Undoubtedly." 

Who rents apartments? Schmidt said it's people who don't want the responsibility of owning a home.

"A house is permanent," Schmidt said. "It means you think you're going to stay in the area. You know you have a secure job. You want to be certain that you want to stay in a community. You like the schools. An apartment is a stepping stone into that area."

An apartment dweller doesn't have to worry about putting on a new $18,000 roof, or fixing the dishwasher when it's broken, or plowing the snow, or tree removal after a storm, or spending $300 plus labor on a new sump pump.

"Apartment living is very simple living," Schmidt said. "When you pay rent, you have an all-in number. For $400 a week, you know every expense is covered. People like that.”

He then explained, "I know a guy who sold a $500,000 house and is moving into an apartment -- not senior housing but into a $2,300-a-month apartment. You might say he's insane, but he doesn't want to do snow removal. He doesn't want to mow a lawn any more. He wants to be able to go and come as he pleases."

Schmidt admitted, "Hey, I'm a landlord," so of course, he's bullish on apartments, but he sees the demand. A fellow landlord in Erie County rents his units for $2,600 a month.

"You might think, 'Who the heck is going to pay that,'" Schmidt said. "He has a waiting list."

He added, "New people are coming. They just will be. I don't know how many jobs they're projecting over the next 10 years, but if the projections are just half right, there will be a lot of need for housing." 

But meeting the growing local need for more roofs to put over the heads of more people is only possible, he said, through the financial assistance of an agency like GCEDC.

"Housing is needed in the area, so how are you going to get it, to get investments from people like me, who would normally invest in other parts of the WNY region, more toward Buffalo, if you're not going to work with them and help them, without some sort of financial incentive," Schmidt said.

pembroke apartment rendering
Rendering of a 24-unit apartment building proposed for Route 77 in Pembroke, courtesy of Developer Mike Schmidt.

Truck hauling drinking water catches fire on Thruway

By Howard B. Owens
thruway truck fire

Westbound Thruway traffic was blocked for a time this afternoon because of a truck fire in the area of mile marker 399.

Pembroke Fire, Indian Falls Fire, Corfu Fire, and East Pembroke Fire responded to the call, which came in at 12:28 p.m.

No injuries were reported.

The truck was hauling Poland Springs water.

Photos by Stephen Kowalcyk.

thruway truck fire
thruway truck fire

GCEDC board to consider $15 million apartment complex in Pembroke

By Press Release

Press Release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) board of directors will consider an initial resolution for Country Side Apartments LLC’s proposed four 24-unit market rate apartment buildings at its board meeting on Thursday, October 5. The project’s capital investment is estimated at $15 million and would be located in the town of Pembroke.

The project is requesting assistance from the GCEDC with a sales tax exemption estimated at $739,200, a property tax abatement estimated at $2,020,688 based on the incremental increase in assessed value via a fixed 60% 20-year PILOT (Housing PILOT for 20+ market-rate units), and a mortgage tax exemption estimated at $130,000.

Each building will have eight 1-bedroom and 16 2-bedroom units, totaling 96 units throughout the complex. The project aligns with the Genesee County Economic Development Center's recognized need for housing availability.

The fiscal impacts on local benefits total $10,032,176 ($8,705,683 in temporary and ongoing payroll and $1,326,493 to the public in tax revenues). For every $1 of public benefit, the company is investing $5 into the local economy.

If the project application is accepted, a public hearing will be scheduled on the proposed project agreement in the town of Pembroke.

The October 5, GCEDC board meeting will be held at 4 p.m. at the MedTech Center’s Innovation Zone, 99 MedTech Drive, Batavia. Meeting materials and links to a live stream/on-demand recording of the meeting is available at www.gcedc.com.

Previously: Shadow of Ellicott Station throws shade on apartment plan for Pembroke, developer promises no low-income housing

Dragons keep perfect season record with 69-28 win

By Howard B. Owens
pembroke dragons football
pembroke dragons football

 The Pembroke Dragons improved to 5-0 on the season with a 69-28 win over C.G. Finney/Northstar on Saturday.

The Dragons amassed more than 500 yards in total offense while running only 30 plays.

Tyson Totten ran for 249 yards and five touchdowns on eight carries. The effort put him over 100 total career touchdowns. 

Fullback Caleb Felski had 136 yards rushing and three touchdowns on four carries. 

Quarterback Vijay Dhanda added 72 rushing yards and a touchdown while also throwing for 42 yards and the Dragons' first passing TD of the season to receiver Sean Pustulka.

Defensively, the Dragons were led by Caleb Felski, with 11 tackles and two interceptions. Totten added nine tackles of his own, while Octavius Martin, Jayden Mast, Madden Perry, Landon Suro and Jayden Bridge all added at least five each.  

The Dragons have yet to punt this season. 

The Dragons Host 4-1 Allegany-Limestone out of Section VI next Friday for Homecoming.

Also, on Saturday, Notre Dame beat Geneseo/Mount Morris 35-0. Jay Antinore was 8-14 passing for 133 yards and two touchdowns. Antinore ran four times for 74 yards and a TD. Roy Ricks had 59 yards on seven carries. Ryan Fitzpatrick scored a TD while hauling in five passes for 85 yards. Jacob Sherwood and Antinore also each had TD receptions.

Submitted photos and information. 

pembroke dragons football
pembroke dragons football
pembroke dragons football
pembroke dragons football

Shadow of Ellicott Station throws shade on apartment plan for Pembroke, developer promises no low-income housing

By Howard B. Owens
metzger pembroke apartments
Engineer Michael Metzger points out some of the changes to a proposed apartment complex on Route 77 in the Town of Pembroke during Wednesday's Town Planning Board meeting.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Based on feedback from the community, the engineer and property owner planning an apartment complex at 8900 Alleghany Road, Pembroke, have scaled back the project, the Pembroke Planning Board learned on Wednesday night before voting 6-1 to let the development move forward.

A month ago, when the plan was last publicly discussed, developer Michael Schmidt and engineer Michael Metzger were planning six buildings in the complex and a total of 144 apartments with 326 parking spaces.

The new site plan calls for four buildings -- plus garages -- with 96 apartments and 168 parking spaces.

The change helps reduce the amount of impervious developed service to less than 50 percent, leaving 57 percent greenspace on the 8.2-acre lot.

The changes will make the complex more attractive from the roadway, Metzger said.

"There was some talk of making the project a little bit more of a park-like as opposed to what we had before where we had six buildings in there and a lot of asphalt," Metzger said. "With these large tracts of natural vegetation, we're trying to replicate a park-like setting that would be better for the aesthetics for the community as well as the residents that would live in this facility."

Chairman David Knupfer voted no after expressing his concern about setting a precedent while not expressing any specific objections to the project.

"This project is a precedent-setter for this town," Knupfer said. "There's no other project like this in this town. So whichever way it goes, it sets a precedent with stipulations or no stipulations. So if this is approved, and somebody else, some other developer comes in, you gotta be careful. So make sure you have what you want in here."

There were two big concerns raised by planners and community members. First, access for school buses; second, whether Schmidt would pull a bait-and-switch, which speakers expressed concern about in light of what happened with Ellicott Station in Batavia, and turn the complex into low-incoming housing.

Metzger explained the plan for school buses, worked out with Pembroke Central School Superintendent Matthew Calderon, and Schmidt said there is no way the complex will become low-income housing.

Calderon sent a letter to the planning board expressing his thoughts on school buses, which Metzger acknowledged.

"He goes into detail there about various options, and actually, some of the options he's suggesting would work quite well," Metzger said. "He also offered the opportunity for the buses to actually come on site. One of the things that he talked about, and he talked about it with Mr. Schmidt, and he would be agreeable to is allowing the buses to actually come on site and stop at each one of the buildings, each of the four buildings. Because of the geometry that is set up for the largest of emergency vehicles and fire trucks, there's way more than enough capacity and room for buses to maneuver on the property."

Metzger explained that the driving lanes and turning lanes through the parking lot are compliant with state fire codes so that fire trucks can easily maneuver through the area.  School buses, he noted, have shorter wheelbases than the largest fire trucks.

Schmidt said he favors the buses stopping at each of the four buildings because it will be safer for the children of his tenants.

"As you know, it can be snowing, raining, sleeting," Schmidt said. "So if you have a tenant in the back building who has a little seven-year-old and the bus was to come in and park in a spot (up front), now that seven-year-old is going to be trucking down (the parking lot) with a backpack to get out on the bus where other people might be leaving for work. We talked about it being a bad situation from a safety standpoint for the children and said the best-case scenario in my mind is to have the bus be able to come around to each building. There will be plenty of clearance. So he (Calderon) was agreeable to that."

That scenario, Schmidt also noted, would allow the children to wait in the building's vestibule during inclement weather.

As far as concerns about low-income housing, Schmidt noted that, unlike Ellicott Station, his project is not subsidized by any state or federal agencies.  

"They already had all the agencies lined up to work with them," Schmidt said. "We are here alone. Mike's my engineer. We have no intention of doing that. I can put that into writing. We certainly aren't going to be looking for any state financial aid or any type of anything from the government to help us."

While the apartments will be available to anyone who can demonstrate the ability to pay the rent, he indicated that a person who qualifies for subsidized housing isn't likely going to be able to qualify to rent an apartment in his complex.

Applicants will need to be able to demonstrate full-time employment with a credit score of at least 700 and an income of at least three times the monthly rental rate. The rent on a two-bedroom apartment will be at least $1,695 per month and $1,395 for a one-bedroom.

After one resident complained that apartments will just bring in a bunch of "riff-raff" and drive down property values, Schmidt, who owns and operates several other similar complexes in the region and repeatedly drew on his experience to explain the kind of tenants who fill his complex, told the man, "respectfully," that he had it backward.

"The people who are gonna live here are going to make a minimum of $50,000 with a credit score that is going to have to be very strong," Schmidt said. "In my experience, once they live here for a while, they're going to realize if they're moving in from another place, which a lot of people will be, I think -- we all know your whole corridor is growing -- and some of you don't like that, I understand. I grew up in Akron, a small town that has grown a little bit. But the reality is it's happening. The STAMP project and other things that are going on are gonna lead other people to want to move in. 

"When they move in, they're gonna look for a nice place to move, and hopefully, we will be able to provide some of that," Schmidt added. "And then what they're going to do is look for places, homes to buy, which is going to take the prices of the homes up like it always does. When more people come in, the value of the homes goes up. That's good for everyone. You have more people coming in to help pay taxes and pay for the infrastructure ... You've got a great town. I'd say one of the towns in Western New York that's on the move. So I think it's going to be the opposite. I think what you find is when more people move in -- nice, good, hardworking people -- they're going to be looking for homes to buy. You're going to see the real estate values start climbing."

Related to the school bus issue, as well as traffic in and out of the complex, as well as the number of parking spaces, and the nature of the up-and-coming workforce quality apartments attract, is there simply won't be a lot of children living in the apartments, Schmidt said. He predicted fewer than 20 children at any one time.

He said the apartments are on the smaller side, and most are one-bedroom, and in his experience, even the two-bedrooms don't tend to attract adults with children.

Eight units in every building will be one-bedroom, and six will be two-bedrooms. There are no three bedrooms. 

"They're not large units," Schmidt said. "They're very medium-sized units. So really, our experience is that we have very few children. And when people start having children, they look for a house."

Schmidt said he maintains high standards for his tenants.  For example, tenants can have dogs under 30 pounds, but if a tenant's dog bites anybody, the dog has to go.

"We don't tolerate anything," Schmidt said. "That's why we keep the standards very high in who we rent to. If you don't, good people will not live around bad people, but bad people love living around good people. So you have to take care of the good tenants that you have."

And that's why he's attracted to building in Pembroke, he said. He believes Pembroke is a community that attracts good people.

"It's a community built around hardworking people," Schmidt said. "Hardworking people don't have a lot of time usually to screw around. We're going to protect that. I think you're gonna see there's a lot of great people that move in here."

metzger schmidt pembroke apartments
Engineer Michael Metzger and Developer Michael Schmidt.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Pembroke planning approves travel plaza development for Exit 48a

By Howard B. Owens
pembroke thruway travel plaza planning

The Town of Pembroke Planning Board approved a proposal for a new travel plaza off Exit 48a of the Thruway on Wednesday, clearing the way for construction to begin in the spring.

When completed, the as-yet-unnamed travel plaza will join Flying J, TA, and Speedway as locations on Route 77 where travelers and truckers can rest, get a bite to eat, refuel and perhaps get a wash.

The vote to approve the environmental review and site plan passed 6-1, with board member Thomas Marshall casting the lone "nay."

In a brief presentation before the vote, Engineer Michael Metzer addressed some of the issues raised at last month's public hearing before the board and by the Genesee County Planning Board.

Previously, there were concerns expressed about sight lines coming from the Thruway overpass and the increase in traffic the new travel plaza is likely to bring to the interchange.

Metzer said since the last meeting, a traffic study has been completed.

"The results of that study were that there are no sightline issues whatsoever," Metzer said.

As for additional traffic, that won't be an issue either.

They've determined that there would be no impact on the level of service in the area, interchanges or intersections," Metzger said. "They looked at seven intersections altogether, and every one of those still meets code. There are no adverse impacts to the intersections; obviously, there's gonna be more traffic, you know, nobody's debating that. But what this traffic impact study does is that it makes a determination of whether the impacts are adverse or not, whether they create a problem. And so, in summary, ... (there is) no significant impact as a result of this project."

Through the environmental review process, it was determined the project could impact an endangered species, the northern long-eared bat.  

The developer has two options: Conduct a detailed study to see if the bat is present on the property, or not cut down any trees on the property during hibernation season -- from Nov. 1 to March 31.

The second option is the one the developer will take, Metzger said.

"If you don't remove any trees (during those months), you are in compliance with DEC guidelines and federal guidelines as well," Metzger said.

To address another issue, Metzger said the project is designed in full compliance with floodplain regulations.

As for historical preservation, Metzger said, "One thing that was identified through the environmental review through the State Office of Parks and Historic Preservation is that we are in a potentially archaeologically sensitive area. As such, we would commit to -- actually, we've started the process of doing a phase 1A and a phase 1B study. We will do that and provide the results prior to a request for a building permit."

During the board discussion, Marshall indicated he didn't agree that the project would have no traffic impact.

"I just think it's way too much volume for that intersection through the interchange," he said.

Board member Greg Kuras said he thought the additional travel plaza would actually help with truck traffic, especially during winter storms.

"Whenever you get storms, you get the states basically begging for parking spots for these things," Kuras said. "They want to get them off of (routes) 5 and 77. It's better to have a big parking lot for them than having them sit on the road."

Ten people complete rescue tech basic refresher course

By Press Release

Press Release:

A four-hour Rescue Tech Basic – Refresher course was conducted for emergency response personnel at the Genesee County Fire Training Center in Batavia on September 18. Ten students participated in this course which reviewed rescue operations initially presented in the Rescue Tech Basic course. The class on September 18 focused on new equipment technology, low-angle rigging, and knot tying. 

The following response personnel successfully completed the course:

PEMBROKE

  • James E. Garrett
  • David A. Linneborn
  • Joseph E. Miano
  • James A. Reinhardt
  • Kevin C. Ross
  • Jamie D. Waff
  • Norman H. Waff
  • Ashley L. Warren

CLARENCE

  • Ronald D. Tyx, Jr.

FORT DRUM

  • Shane D. Savage

Joining the fire/EMS service not only provides you the opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to your community but allows you to develop (free) professional skills, and form lifelong friendship and positive relationships. Visit your local fire department to find out more about volunteer opportunities in your community.

Dragons remain undefeated with 49-16 win

By Staff Writer
pembroke dragons football

Submitted photos and information.

With a 49-16 win over Frewsburg (Section VI) on Friday, the Pembroke Dragons improved to 4-0 on the season.

The Dragons held Frewsburg scoreless until the fourth quarter.

Behind the blocking of Ben Steinberg, Jayden Mast, Jayden Bridge, Madden Perry, JJ Gabbey, Octavius Martin and Hayden Williams, Vijay Dhanda drew first blood with a 5-yard rushing TD. 

Tyson Totten rushed for 177 yards and four touchdowns on 13 carries to eclipse 1,000 yards on the season, while fullback Caleb Felski added 102 yards and one touchdown of his own on just five carries. 

Defensively the Dragons were led by Caleb Felski with nine tackles. 

Octavius Martin and Tyson Totten recorded seven each, with Landon Schoonover and Landon Suro adding five a piece. JJ Gabbey, Vijay Dhanda and Tyson Totten each had a fumble recovery, while Madden Perry had two. Tyson Totten took his recovery to the house on a 55-yard score. 

Sean Pustulka was 7-7 on extra points. The Dragons have yet to punt this season. 

pembroke dragons football
pembroke dragons football
pembroke dragons football
pembroke dragons football

Law and Order: Bergen woman accused of attempted assault

By Howard B. Owens

Jennifer Lynn Bobzin, 53, of West Bergen Road, Bergen, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon 3rd, attempted assault 2nd, and menacing 3rd. Bobzin is accused of attempting to grab a weapon and using it to cause injury to another person during an argument reported at 6:40 p.m. on Sept. 20 at a location on West Bergen Road, Bergen.

Michael Steven Dranichak, 61, of Lake Street, Le Roy, is charged with failure to register a change of address. Dranichak is accused of failure to register a change of address within ten days.  He was issued an appearance ticket.

Jacob William Patterson, 27, of Kilian Road, Pembroke, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. During an arrest on a separate matter, Patterson was allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance by Deputy Richard Schildwaster at a location on East Main Street, Corfu, at 2:01 p.m. on Feb. 2. Patterson was issued an appearance ticket.

John James Gronowski, 46, of Cheektowaga, is charged with trespass. Gronowski is accused of entering Batavia Downs after previously being advised he was not allowed on the property. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Larry Dominic Delre, 65, of Alleghany Road, Pembroke, is charged with grand larceny 4th and issuing a bad check. Delre is accused of writing a bad check for the purchase of mulch. He was reportedly given multiple opportunities to pay for the mulch but refused. Delre was issued an appearance ticket.

Sponsored Post: New listings from Reliant Real Estate!! Call us today

By Lisa Ace
Reliant

NEW!! 2419 Main Road, Pembroke. Super solid and well cared for home that has so much more to offer than you can see from a driveby!! Home is really well laid out and square footage doesn't begin to show all the extra usable space there is, like the finished attic space that could easily be third bedroom or rec room, or the awesome partially finished high and dry basement that gives you tons of bonus space for additional living space or workshop area!! The kitchen, dining, living room is all connected and open for entertaining purposes and there is a lovely enclosed front porch that serves as a great morning room or TV watching on game days!! Two bedrooms and full bath on main floor make this the perfect home for someone that needs all one floor living! The location of home is perfect for easy access to shopping schools and thruway but the yard is where its at-it is fantastic!! Must walk to appreciate , it has a little something for everyone, deep-almost 2.5 acres-partially wooded with a path that allows you to sit and overlook creek-its great! Delayed negotiations so you can see for yourself Tuesday September 26 @12:00.

NEW!! 5484 Horseshoe Lake Road, Stafford. Solid and well maintained country ranch! Located on pretty rural road but close to everything you need- shopping, restaurants, and quick access to all major routes for quick commutes! Also located in Batavia School System and minutes from College. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath, brick ranch will sure to please and surprise you with its spacious layout and great hominess! The kitchen is updated with great cupboard space, first floor laundry at your fingertips and large but cozy family room with fireplace overlooking private pretty backyard. There is also an enclosed 3 season back porch for peaceful evenings as well as sunny and welcoming front porch with trex decking to welcome your guests! There is a deep attached garage as well as 8x10 back shed for all your extra storage needs. This home is ready for immediate occupancy and is easy to slip in and see! Delayed negotiations so you can get your opportunity until Monday September 25th at 7:00 p.m.
 

Dragons go to 2-0 with another high-scoring win

By Staff Writer
pembroke over cal-mum byron bergen

Submitted article and photos.

The Pembroke Dragons Varsity Football team improved to 2-0 on the season with a 58-22 victory over Cal-Mum/Byron-Bergen

Behind the blocking of Ben Steinberg, Jayden Mast, Jayden Bridge, Madden Perry, JJ Gabbey, Octavius Martin and Caleb Felski, Tyson Totten rushed for 330 yards and five touchdowns on 15 carries -- all in the first half. 

Fullback Caleb Felski and Quarterback Vijay Dhanda had the other rushing touchdowns. 

Caleb Kimmel took a kick return 70 yards to the house, and the Dragons got a safety to finish their scoring. 

Defensively the Dragons were led by Hayden Williams with 10 tackles on defense. Madden Perry, Caleb Kimmel and Landon Suro each added seven tackles a piece, and Sean Pustkula had the game's lone interception. He also was 8-8 on extra points. 

The Dragons travel to Bolivar-Richburg this Thursday to take on the 2-0 Wolverines. 

pembroke over cal-mum byron bergen
pembroke over cal-mum byron bergen
pembroke over cal-mum byron bergen
pembroke over cal-mum byron bergen

Pembroke girls soccer team wins season opener over Perry 3-1

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

Pembroke Girls varsity pulled out a 3-1 win last night in their first home game against Perry. 

Three minutes into the first half, freshman Ashlyn Robinson scored the first goal of the game, she was assisted by Seneca Calderón. 

The remaining two goals for the win were scored by junior and captain Seneca Calderón. She was assisted both times by sophomore midfielder Peyton Liss. Notable defensive plays were made by goalkeeper Madelyn Groves, and center backs Kayla Weyrauch and Mykenzie Dylag.

Law and Order: Multi-agency, months long investigation yields three suspects in mobile device fraud

By Howard B. Owens
jerome ware
Jerome E. Ware

Jerome E. Ware, 59, of New Rochelle, is charged with two counts of identity theft 1st and grand larceny third. Joel A. Rojas Perallon, 20, and Raul DeLeon DeLeon, 30, both of New York City, were charged with identity theft 1st, grand larceny 3rd, and scheme to defraud 1st. Ware's arrest came after a report on April 8, 2022, in Wyoming County, of a person misrepresenting himself as a Verizon Wireless employee. The person obtained account and credit card info and subsequently made purchases of four iPhone 13 Pro Max smartphones and had them delivered to an address in Mount Vernon. The total value of the phones was $5,599.96.  

rojas perallon
Joel A. Rojas Perallon

Ware was arrested on Sept. 26, 2022. Ware's release status was not provided. Following Ware's arrest, the Genesee County Sheriff's Office contacted Wyoming County concerning a similar case. Ware was identified as a suspect in the Genesee County case, and Perallon and DeLeon were also identified as suspects, following months of an ongoing joint investigation. DeLeon was also identified as a suspect, arrested in June, in an armed robbery of a delivery driver in Illinois. Warrants were issued for the arrests of Perallon and DeLeon. Perallon was arrested at his home in New York City on Aug. 10. DeLeon turned himself in to Wyoming County deputies on Aug. 23.  

deleon
Raul DeLeon DeLeon

Both were arraigned and released in accordance with New York bail laws. Assisting with the investigation were NYPD, Homeland Security, and FedEx security. 

Noemi Morales, 23, of Briant Avenue, Syracuse, is charged with grand larceny 3rd and conspiracy 5th. Morales is accused of stealing $8,000 in high-end fragrances from Ulta on Veterans Memorial Drive at 6:20 on April 4. She was arrested on Aug. 22 by Investigator Ryan DeLong.  

Jamie Aaron Dutton, 31, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with tampering with physical evidence, criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, and obstructing governmental administration 2nd. Dutton was arrested at 8:05 p.m. on Aug. 25 on Dellinger Avenue, Batavia, in a joint enforcement action by Batavia PD's Net Enforcement Team and the Sheriff's Office on a warrant issued by NYS Parole. It is alleged that Dutton fled from police on a bicycle and hid under the back deck of a residence. He allegedly attempted to discard narcotics in an attempt to conceal his possession of the drugs. Dutton was issued an appearance ticket and released.

heather holbrook
Heather N. Holbrook

Heather N. Holbrook, 38, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Holbrook was allegedly found in possession of a small amount of crack cocaine on July 18 at an undisclosed location in Batavia. When Officers located and arrested her on Aug. 16, she was allegedly found in possession of a large quantity of crack cocaine. She was arraigned in  City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $10,000 cash bail, $20,000 bond, and $50,000 partially secured bond.

Austin RJ O’Connell, 19, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny, criminal trespass 2nd, and criminal mischief 4th. O’Connell was arrested on Aug. 21 following an investigation into a burglary that occurred on Feb. 23. It’s alleged that O’Connell disabled a security camera, entered an apartment on Bank Street and stole property. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Adrienne S. Bechtold, 27, and Ronald J. Murray. 28, both of Batavia, are charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd. Bechtold and Murray were arrested after Genesee County Probation located drugs and drug paraphernalia during a home visit. Batavia Police Officers were then called to assist probation and process the arrests. Bechtold and Murray were each issued appearance tickets.

Terrance H. Riley, 35, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Riley was initially arrested on Oct. 19, 2014, on a charge of harassment 2nd and resisting arrest. Riley allegedly failed to appear in court, and a warrant was issued. He was arraigned in  City Court and released on his own recognizance. 

Sean M. Conway, 46, of Pembroke, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon 3rd and uninspected motor vehicle. Conway was arrested on Aug. 9 following a traffic stop by a Batavia patrol officer on Washington Avenue. He was allegedly found in possession of an expandable baton. He was arraigned and released. 

Brian M. Raphael, 35, of Batavia, is charged with trespassing. Raphael was located inside Aldi on East Main Street on Aug. 16 after previously being barred from the store due to prior alleged shoplifting incidents. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Crystal M. Bouter, 34, of Batavia, was arrested on an arrest warrant issued by City Court. Bouter was initially arrested on July 6 and charged with criminal mischief 4th after allegedly damaging another person’s cellphone. She was issued an appearance ticket. A warrant was issued after she failed to appear in court. Bouter was located on Aug. 16 while officers were investigating a separate incident. Bouter was arraigned and released.

Kyle J. Stack, no age provided, no residence provided, is charged with criminal trespass 3rd and failure to keep right (bicycle). Stack was arrested on Aug. 16 after officers attempted to stop him for riding a bicycle southbound in the northbound lane on South Spruce Street in Batavia. Stack allegedly fled on foot but was located a short distance away in a backyard. He was issued appearance tickets.

Ashton L. Mohney, 33, of Batavia, is charged with assault 3rd and criminal obstruction of breathing. Officers were called to an address on Ross Street, Batavia, for the report of a physical disturbance. It's alleged that Mohney grabbed the victim by the neck and punched her in the head. He was arraigned in City Court and released. 

Ricky L. Miller, 41, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Miller was initially arrested on May 24 and charged with petit larceny for allegedly stealing merchandise from Tops. He was issued an appearance ticket. A warrant was issued after he failed to appear in court. Miller was arraigned on the warrant in City Court and released. 

Frank R. Cratsenberg, 63, no residence provided, was arrested on Aug. 16 on a warrant issued by City Court. Cratsenberg was arrested on June 6 for an alleged theft from Kwik Fill on Jackson Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket. A warrant was issued on July 18 after he failed to appear in court. Cratsenberg was arraigned on the warrant in City Court and released.

Ryan M. Arner, 37, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Arner was charged after an investigation into a fight that occurred at an address on State Street on Aug. 15. It's alleged that Arner pushed and headbutted another person. Arner was issued an appearance ticket.

Aaron R. Hatfield, 38, of Lockport, is charged with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance. Hatfield is accused of stealing merchandise from Tops on Aug. 14. During his arrest, Hatfield was allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Myron D. Dupler, 76, of Batavia, is charged with public lewdness. It’s alleged that Dupler exposed himself on Aug. 14 while in the area of Austin Park. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Kelli E. Wallace, 60, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. It's alleged that on Aug. 13 Wallace stole merchandise from Tops. She was issued an appearance ticket.

James L. Brown, 40, of Albion, is charged with petit larceny. Brown was charged after allegedly stealing merchandise on Aug. 11 from 7-Eleven in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Paul Lee, 51, of Rochester, is charged with criminal trespass 3rd. Lee was arrested after he was allegedly found sleeping on Aug. 8 in a vacant house on Ellicott Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Joanna F. Larnder, 30, of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant issued by City Court. Larnder was initially charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd on March 23 after a traffic stop on Margaret Place, Batavia.  She allegedly failed to appear in court and a warrant was issued on May 18. Larnder was arraigned and ordered to reappear at a later date.

Joshua J. Brower, 39, of Medina, is charged with DWI. Brower was arrested after a traffic stop on West Main Street on Aug. 12. He was issued traffic tickets.

Fawn M. Mobley, 51, of Oakfield, is charged with DWI. Mobley was arrested on Aug. 12 after officers located a vehicle driving on West Main Street, Batavia, with a flat tire. She was issued traffic tickets.

Andrew T. Williams, 20, of Jamestown, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Williams was initially charged on April 22 with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd and operating with a suspended registration after a traffic stop on Cedar Street, Batavia. A warrant was issued after he allegedly failed to appear in court. Williams was arraigned in City Court and released. 

Ashton L. Mohney, 33, of Batavia, is charged with burglary 2nd, criminal Contempt 1st, and criminal mischief 3rd. Mohney was arrested after an investigation into a disturbance on Ross Street on Aug. 19 where he allegedly damaged property and violated an order of protection. Mohney was arraigned and remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $1,000 cash bail, $2,000 bond, and $4,000 partially secured bond. 

Brian E. Daggar, 37, of Elba, was arrested on a warrant on Aug. 22. Daggar was initially charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd. He was reportedly involved in a traffic accident in January 2023 in Batavia. The warrant was issued after he allegedly failed to appear in court. Daggar was arraigned and released and is due back in court at a later date.

Hunter M. Passage, 23, of Batavia, is charged with criminal trespass 2nd. It’s alleged that Passage entered a home on Washington Avenue on Aug. 22 without permission after offering to clean the house for the homeowner. Passage was issued an appearance ticket.

Lakeisha A. Gibson, 37, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant on Aug. 19. Gibson was initially arrested on May 15. She was accused of failing to appear to testify at Grand Jury after being served a subpoena. She was issued an appearance ticket. Gibson failed to appear in court, and a warrant was issued on July 19. She was arraigned and ordered to reappear at a later date.

Adam Troy Shipwash, 43, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with disobeying a mandate. The Sheriff's Office provided no explanation of the charge. Shipwarsh was arrested in connection with an incident reported noon on Aug. 10 in the Town of Byron. He was jailed pending arraignment.

Jeremy John Trzecienski, 46, of Hillside Drive, Pavilion, is charged with harassment 2nd and trespass. Trzecienski is accused of entering another person's property on South Lake Road, Pavilion, at about 7 p.m. on Aug. 23, and remaining there unlawfully while fighting with another person. He was arraigned and ordered to return to court at a later date.

Rachael Marie Brown, 45, of Bethany Center Road, Bethany, is charged with driving while impaired by drugs and following too close. Brown was reportedly involved in a traffic accident at 4:36 p.m. on June 21 on Telephone Road in Pavilion. Following an investigation by Deputy Zachary Hoy, Brown was arrested on Aug. 24 and issued traffic tickets.

Michael Ford Pfenninger, 21, of Genesee Street, Alden, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and moving from lane unsafely. Pfenninger was arrested on Aug. 23 by Deputy Ryan Mullen in connection with an incident reported at 3:57 a.m. on July 17 on Route 20 in Darien. No details on the incident were released by the Sheriff's Office. Information was not released on whether he was arraigned or issued appearance tickets. He is scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 12.

Koree Rose Stephenson, no age provided, no street address provided, of Rochester, is charged with introducing prison contraband and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Stephenson was allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance while being booked into the jail at 1:50 a.m. on Aug. 27. She was held pending arraignment.

William James Flack, 50, of Sandpit Road, Alexander, is charged with harassment 2nd and criminal contempt 1st. Flack allegedly violated a "refrain from" order of protection by striking another person at 2:05 a.m. on Aug.27 at a location on Sandpit Road, Alexander. He was scheduled to appear in court of arraignment later on the day of his arrest.

Markeith Deandre Lenoir, 33, of Ruleville, Miss., is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, and insufficient tailamps. Lenoir was stopped at 1:35 a.m. on Aug. 29, on West Main Street, Batavia, by Deputy Jeremiah Gechell. He was released on traffic tickets.

Matthew J. Zon, 42, of Warsaw, is charged with aggravated criminal contempt and aggravated family offense. Zon was arrested in the Town of Byron by State Police in connection an incident reported at 3:14 p.m. on Aug 29. He was ordered held in jail. No further information was released.

David C. Stephens, 58, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 1st. Stephens was arrested by State Police in connection with an incident reported in Stafford at 5:42 p.m. on Aug. 23. 

Amanda N. Holbrook, 36, of Bergen, is charged with DWI. Holbrook was stopped by State Police in the Town of Bergen at 8:30 p.m. on Aug. 23 and released on an appearance ticket.

Parent company announces remodel of Flying J, $10K donation to Pembroke Central Schools

By Press Release

Press release:

The Flying J travel center in Pembroke, New York, is ready to welcome travelers with a fully refreshed look and new amenities. The renovations are part of Pilot Company’s nationwide initiative, called New Horizons, to invest $1 billion in remodeling its stores to upgrade the experience for team members and guests and prepare for the future of travel. Additionally, Pilot Company is donating $10,000 to Pembroke Central School District as part of its commitment to giving back.

As part of the store’s complete overhaul from curb to counter, the Flying J travel center located at 8484 Allegheny Road features: 

  • Refreshed and expanded restrooms and showers to improve the guest experience
  • Enhanced food offerings
  • Expanded beverage coolers 
  • New team member breakroom
  • Updated public laundry facilities

“We are excited to showcase our newly updated travel center with the Pembroke community and the travelers we serve every day,” said Allison Cornish, vice president of store modernization at Pilot Company. “We continue to listen to our guests’ feedback and strive to make their travel experiences easier and more enjoyable.”

The New Horizons initiative is a three-year project to fully remodel more than 400 Pilot, Flying J and One9 travel center locations and marks the company’s most significant investment in store modernization to date. For more information about New Horizons, visit pilotflyingj.com/new-horizons.

Photo: Double rainbow in Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens
double rainbow

Jim Reinhardt submitted this photo of a double rainbow behind his house on Saturday afternoon.

We suggested he look for a pot of gold in his pond.

Photo: Deborah Conti fills vacant board seat in Town of Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens
Schneider swears in conti

On Thursday, Pembroke Town Supervisor Tom Schneider welcomed Deborah Conti to the town board and administered the oath of office.

Conti fills the seat of Warran Clark, who passed away in July after a long illness. She was appointed by the board through the end of the year and is on November's ballot to finish out Warren's term.

Submitted photo.

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