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Genesee County Chamber of Commerce earns two Tourism Excellence awards

By Billie Owens

Pictured: Kelly Rapone, GC Chamber of Commerce Tourism Marketing director and Lauren Humphrey, Tourism Program liaison.

Submitted photos and press release:

AUBURN -- The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that their tourism staff and programs have earned Tourism Excellence awards at this year’s New York State Travel Industry Association (NYSTIA), annual Tourism Excellence Awards held in Auburn Sept. 26-27th

The New York State Tourism Industry Association recognizes leaders in New York State's tourism industry who have achieved a high level of excellence and accomplishment with the Tourism Excellence Awards.

Individuals and organizations are selected from nominees that have demonstrated commitment, leadership, and accomplishment in the travel and tourism sector from Jan. 1, 2018 to May 31, 2019.

Kelly Rapone, Tourism Marketing director, was selected to be the inaugural recipient of the NYSTA Leadership Award, which is intended to recognize a NYSTIA member whose achievements as a tourism professional are matched by both their personal stewardship and leadership on behalf of both New York State Tourism in general and the membership of NYSTIA in particular. 

“Kelly’s tourism marketing efforts have earned numerous awards, and she is quick to think outside the box to develop initiatives like the Haunted History Trail that engage and benefit many other New York State destinations," said Christine Hoffer, NYSTIA’s chief operating officer.

"At the same time, she dedicates countless hours of her personal time and motivates others to follow her example through her leadership of the NYSTIA’s DONY scholarship auction committee, involving dozens of members and contributors.

"In addition, during 2018 and 2019, Kelly’s personal commitment was vital to the successful documentation and report preparation for NYSTIA’s Market NY grants, which benefited the over 30 NYSTIA members who participated in the BrandUSA campaign."

The Chamber also received a Niche Marketing Excellence Award for their popular golf packaging program.

Developed in 2006 to bridge the “booking gap” for consumers, the Chamber partnered with several courses and hotels to build packages which were then promoted primarily in Southern Ontario. In 2017 the tourism office launched a social media ad campaign to increase their reach.

By May 2018 the program had already booked more than double it had done in the 12-year program history and increased their new customer bookings by 60 percent.

“This year’s Tourism Excellence Award winners have and will continue to take New York State’s tourism industry to new levels of success, driving economic growth across the state," Bob Provost, NYSTIA president and CEO. "These awards recognize tourism professionals not only for their creative marketing programs, but also for their passion and commitment to their communities."

Law and Order: Batavia man accused of menacing police officer with a knife

By Billie Owens

Morgan L. Cox, 27, of Batavia (no address provided) (inset photo, left), is charged with: obstruction of governmental administration; menacing a police officer (with a knife), criminal possession of a weapon, unlawful possession of marijuana. At 12:49 a.m. on Sept. 28, Cox was arrested on Central Avenue in Batavia by Batavia Police Officer Peter Post and Officer Arick Perkins. No other details provided. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $15,000 cash or $30,000 bond. He is due in city court this afternoon (Sept. 30).

Falan Janee Young, 27, of Ackerman Street, Rochester, is charged with: criminal possession of narcotic with intent to sell; criminal possession of a narcotic drug; unlawful possession of marijuana; aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle; and having side wings/windows not transparent on her vehicle. She was arrested at 12:37 p.m. on Sept. 26 on Clinton Street Road in Stafford. She was the driver and sole occupant of a vehicle stopped on Route 33 in the Town of Stafford. During the traffic stop, it is alleged that Young was found to be driving while her privilege to do so was suspended. She was later allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine and marijuana. She was arraigned in Stafford Town Court and jailed in lieu of $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 bond. Young is due back in Stafford Town Court on Oct. 1. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Andrew Mullen, assisted by Investigator Ronald Welker.

Shuvon Joanne Williams, 43, of Leopard Street, Rochester, is charged with second-degree harassment. Williams was arrested on Sept. 26 and arraigned at 10:30 a.m. in Batavia City Court following the investigation into a bomb threat made at 3:40 p.m. on April 23 at a medical offices on Bank Street in Batavia. The charge was worked out as part of a plea arrangement. The case was handled by Batavia Police Det. Eric Hill.

Ronald J. Murray, 25, of Wood St., Batavia, is charged with second-degree burglary and petit larceny. He was arrested Sept. 29 on a Batavia City Court warrant stemming from an incident on Aug. 7 on East Main Street Road in Batavia. Murray is accused of entering the dwelling of another person and stealing property. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $15,000 cash or $30,000 bond and is due in court again at a later date. The case was handled by Bataiva Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Sean Wilson.

Derrick Roy Kio, 28, of Broadway Road, Darien, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. Kio was arrested on Sept. 22 after an investigation into an alleged violation of an order of protection at a location of Bank Street in the City of Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on Oct. 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Stephen Quider.

Rae C. Cook, 30, of Jackson Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. Cook was arrested at 11:40 a.m. on Sept. 24 on East Main Street in Batavia, arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on her own recognizance. She is due back in city court on Oct. 10. The case was a handled by Batavia Police Officer Adam Tucker, assisted by Officer Jordan McGinnis.

Kenneth R. Torrico, 31, of Westchester Boulevard, Tonawanda, is charged with: two counts of falsely reporting an incident; petit larceny; and fourth-degree criminal mischief. He was located and arrested on warrants out of Batavia City Court for allegedly falsely reporting two incidents at two addresses on State Street, Batavia. The first was at 1:55 a.m. on June 10; the second was at 3:22 a.m. on June 11. In addition, he had a warrant for petit larceny and fourth-degree criminal mischief. The latter two charges stem from an unspecified incident at 6:38 p.m. on June 7 on Ellicott Street in Batavia. Torrico was arraigned in city court Sept. 26 and is due back there Oct. 3. The cases were handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Dylan L. Bates, 25, of Townline Road, Byron, is charged with: driving while intoxicated with a BAC of .08 percent or more; DWI; leaving the scene of a property damage accident; and moving from lane unsafely. He was arrested at 12:23 a.m. on Sept. 29 after the investigation of a single-car accident in  the Town of Byron. He was released on appearance tickets and is due in Byron Town Court on Oct. 21. The case was handled by Genesee Coumty Sheriff's Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush, assisted by Deputy James Stack.

Brian E. Mack, 35, of Sumner Road, Darien, is accused of: driving while intoxicated with a BAC of .08 percent or more; DWI; operating a mobile phone while operating a motor vehicle; and moving from lane unsafely. At 2:15 a.m. on Sept. 29, Genesee County Sheriff's deputies responded to a report of a vehicle in a ditch at 10537 Alleghany Road, Darien. They arrived on location to find an SUV in a ditch near the Darien Fire Department. They spoke with Mack and after an investigation, he was arrested on the charges, processed at the jail and released on appearance tickets. He is due in Darien Town Court on Oct. 8. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan Young, assisted by Sgt. Ron Meides.

Walter H. Bennett, 29, of Van Aucker Street, Rochester, is charged with: aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree; unlicensed operation; and unlawful possession of marijuana. Bennett was arrested at 6:50 p.m. on Sept. 27 on Oak Street in Batavia following a traffic stop. He was allegedly found to be driving with a suspended driver's license and in possession of marijuana. He was arrested and arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $2,500 cash bail or bond. He is due back in court at a later date. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Christopher Camp.

Jason A. Zajaczkowski, 23, of Royalton Center, Road, Middleport, is charged with criminal possession of marijuana in the fourth degree and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree. He was arrested after a traffic stop investigation into a motor-vehicle accident that occurred at 6:16 p.m. on Sept. 21 on North Street in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Oct. 1. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Peter Post.

Robert N. Tatarka, 71, of Union Street, Batavia, is charged with driving while ability impaired by alcohol. He was arrested after an investigation into a traffic offense complaint where he allegedly drove his vehicle while impaired by alcohol at 7:41 p.m. on Sept. 25 on Union Street in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Oct. 30. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Cronmiller, assisted by Officer Sean Wilson.

Jon N. Roblee, 44, of Summit Street, Batavia, is charged with obstructing governmental administration in the second degree. Roblee was arrested and arraigned Sept. 29 in Batavia City Court following a complaint about a disturbance at 9:15 p.m. Sept. 29 on Summit Street. He is due back in city court today, Sept. 30. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Ronald J. Murray, 25, of Wood Street, Batavia, is charged with criminally possessing a hypodermic instrument. Murray was arrested today (Sept. 30) on Jackson Street after an arrest warrant was issued by Batavia City Court. During the arrest on the warrant, the current charge was added. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Daniel S. Kuczka, 75, of Walden Creek Drive, Batavia, is charged with trespassing. He was arrested on a warrant at 11:10 a.m. on Sept. 26 for a trespassing charged filed in Batavia City Court on Sept. 24 and for which he allegedly failed to appear to answer. He is due back in city court Oct. 3. The case was a handled by Batavia Police Officer Adam Tucker, assisted by Officer Jason Davis.

Christopher P. Thomas, 35, of State Street, Batavia, is charged with owning/harboring an unlicensed dog. He was arrested at 5:45 p.m. on Sept. 28 on State Street in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on Oct. 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Joshua Girvin.

Byron-Bergen college and career counselor honored with national award

By Billie Owens

Photo: Rob Kaercher at the National Association for College Admissions Counselors at their annual conference in Louisville, Ky.

Submitted photo and press release:

LOUISVILLE, KY. -- On Saturday, Sept. 28, Byron-Bergen College and Career counselor Rob Kaercher accepted the Rising Star Award from the National Association for College Admissions Counselors at their annual conference in Louisville, Ky.

This national award “honors individuals and programs that exemplify excellence and dedication to serving the needs of students in the transition from high school to college."

Kaercher’s position has many aspects from exposing students to a variety of job experiences to helping them complete their college applications.

“I try to help them find a career path that matches their interests,” he said. "I have college and career assessment tools to help with this, but talking to the individual students, reflecting on what brings their interests and what they enjoy in their classes, is the best way. Each student is different. It’s all about personalized attention.”

When asked why Byron-Bergen stood out in the nationwide competition, Kaercher said, “It’s visionary for a small, rural school to have a College and Career counselor. This position is much more prevalent at private schools, public charter schools, and in some suburban and urban schools that have created a college-going culture.

"Byron-Bergen is somewhat unique in that my colleagues in the Counseling Department can focus on the social and emotional development of our students and I can focus on helping with the transition out of high school.

"I hope that we continue to see more rural schools, and schools in general, see the importance of developing a College and Career Center to enhance the school counseling department.”

Another difference between Byron-Bergen and larger districts is the variety of career paths students are interested in.

“This award highlights the transition of students from high school to college, but every year I help students transition to four-year colleges, two-year colleges, military careers, and many students enter directly into the workforce," Kaercher said. "Each of these students is valuable and I hope that I can help them leave high school ready to fulfill their goals.”

“We are extremely lucky to have Rob on our team,” said Byron-Bergen High School Principal Pat McGee. “It’s not enough just to have a College and Career Center. It needs to be in the hands of a dedicated professional counselor with the knowledge, connections, and passion for helping students map out their futures. This is a well-deserved honor.”

“I couldn’t do my job without the flexibility and enthusiasm of our amazing faculty and staff,” Kaercher said. “They meet with students, join field trips, write letters of recommendation – their support allows me to connect the dots.”

In addition to the national award, Kaercher received the Rising Star Award from the New York State Association for College Admission Counseling in August.

I think this is one of the best jobs in the world because I really enjoy working with the students, staff, and faculty,” Kaercher said. “These students have dreams and goals. They are curious and want to explore. That really keeps my job fun and interesting.”

NYS Sen. Rob Ortt issues statement about the vital need to 'defend President Trump's agenda'

By Billie Owens

A statement from Bronze Star recipient and New York State Senator Rob Ortt:

“It is vital that we continue to have a strong, conservative voice representing the residents of New York’s 27th Congressional District and elect a candidate who will defend President Trump’s agenda," Ortt said. "I am the only candidate in this race who has proven that they are willing to do both.

"It is time that we send a battle-tested patriot to Washington who will stand up for our district, stand up to the Party of Impeachment, and push back against the radical socialists running our nation’s Democrat Party.”

BREAKING: AP reports Congressman Collins plans to resign and plead guilty

By Billie Owens

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Associated Press at about 1:57 p.m. today reported that Rep. Chris Collins of New York is resigning from Congress ahead of his expected guilty plea on insider trading charges, according to Speaker (Nancy) Pelosi’s office.

UPDATED 2:34 p.m.: A Change of Plea Hearing for Collins is scheduled for 3 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1, in Courtroom 518 before Judge Vernon S. Broderick in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, located in the Thurgood Marshall United States Courthouse at 40 Centre St. in lower Manhattan. The Change of Plea Hearing was entered on the court docket today.

More T/K.

All registered voters can vote early starting with this year's Nov. 5 General Election

By Billie Owens

From the Genesee County Board of Elections regarding early voting:

Beginning this year for the General Election on Nov. 5, all registered voters can vote early, in person, before Election Day.

Genesee County voters can vote early in the main meeting room right off the lobby at County Building 2, 3837 W. Main Street Road, Batavia. The Genesee County early voting site is accessible to voters with disabilities.

The dates and times of early voting are:

Saturday, Oct. 26: 12 – 5 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 27: 12 – 5 p.m.
Monday, Oct. 28: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Tuesday, Oct. 29: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 30: 12 – 8 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 31: 12 – 8 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 1: 9 a.m. -- 5 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 2: 12 – 5 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 3: 12 – 5 p.m.

Voting during early voting will be the same as Election Day. When you arrive at the early voting center you will check in to vote, receive your ballot and vote like you do on Election Day.

ONCE YOU VOTE EARLY -- YOU WILL NOT BE ELIGIBLE TO VOTE ON ELECTION DAY.

Early voting votes will be reported as unofficial results after 9 p.m. on Election Day. You will be able to check our website for unofficial results at www.genesee.ny.us

Official results will be available after our re-canvass, which will be posted a week to 10 days after the General Election after absentee and military ballots are counted.

Votes will not be tallied at the end of each early voting day, nor will they be tallied on the last day of voting.

Absentee ballots will continue to be available if you will be out of Genesee County, if you are permanently or temporarily disabled, ill, a caregiver for one or more people who are ill or disabled, or detained in jail awaiting Grand Jury action, or incarcerated for an offense other than a felony.

  • You can contact the Genesee County Board of Elections with any questions or to request an absentee ballot at (585) 815-7804.

Two youth officials endorse Durin Rogers for full-time Batavia City Court judgeship

By Billie Owens

Photo above: Part-time Batavia City Court Judge Durin Rogers and Theresa Asmus-Roth, coordinator of Justice for Children Program.

Submitted photos and press release:

Theresa Asmus-Roth and Captain James C. Davis have added their names to the list of those endorsing Durin Rogers, a part-time Batavia City Court judge who is seeking election as the court's next full-time judge.

Asmuth-Roth is coordinator of Genesee County’s Justice for Children Program; Davis is coordinator of the County’s S.T.A.R. Program.

The Justice for Children Program is the Genesee County Agency that advocates for and give services to local children who have been victims of abuse or witnesses to violent acts, while the S.T.A.R. (Student Transition and Recovery) Program addresses the needs of local students who are facing school discipline or removal from their homes.

“I have worked with Judge Rogers in his role with the Genesee County Attorney’s Office as a part of the Justice for Children CORE team since my career in victim advocacy began in 2001," said Asmus-Roth, highlighting her experience with Rogers over the past 18 years.

"This has given me the opportunity to witness his dedication to child victims of abuse and view him as an experienced, thoughtful, and passionate legal professional."

She continued: “The Batavia City Court judge fills a crucial role in this community; a role that balances the constitutional and legal rights of a defendant against safety and justice for crime victims and the community as a whole… Judge Rogers’ decades of experience as a defense attorney, prosecutor, corporate counsel, and Judge have equipped him to excel in this position. It is with that in mind that I endorse Judge Durin Rogers for full-time city court judge.” 

Davis commended Rogers’ efforts in working with Family Court Judge Eric Adams in bringing the S.T.A.R. Program to Genesee County. He also praised Rogers’ ongoing support of the program since its inception as reasons for his endorsement.

“In my dealings with Judge Rogers…his knowledge of family matters within the court system has proved beneficial and supportive to the Genesee County S.T.A.R Program’s success,” Davis said. “I have personally learned and benefited from Judge Rogers’ knowledge of the law and his extraordinary ability to deal with and relate to ALL individuals

"We fully endorse his candidacy…I have no doubt that [Rogers] will be welcomed as your Batavia City Court judge and will serve the legal system and the City of Batavia with integrity and honor.” 

Rogers said “I have truly enjoyed working with Theresa and Captain Davis over the years. They are true professionals and have devoted their careers to protecting and assisting children in our community. I am proud to work with them and have their support and endorsement.”

Photo below: Captain James Davis of the S.T.A.R Program, part-time Batavia City Court Judge Durin Rogers, and Sgt. Robert Ettinger, S.T.A.R Program.

Sponsored Post: Pudgie's Lawn & Garden announces fall events

By Lisa Ace


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Looking for a sale? Right now, Pudgie's has 50% off all PERENNIALS, TREES & SHRUBS. Now is the time to plant them for next year!

Looking Indoors? Houseplants are here! A great addition for your home for beginners or novice – as new ones arrive weekly. There are many health benefits to having live plants in your home.

Looking to continue education? We offer classes and events, too. Check out our Facebook page for more information. You are never too old to stop learning, make new friends or just have fun.

Gray cat missing in Kibbe Park area of Batavia

By Howard B. Owens

Stone isn't at home where he belongs and his owner, Kathleen, is worried about his whereabouts.

Stone's home is on Elmwood Avenue, by Kibbe Park. He's been missing since Sunday afternoon.

The feline is all gray, with green eyes, very friendly, and he loves to hide and play. He's 4 years old but is not an outdoor cat.

If anyone has seen him or has any information about him, please contact Kathleen at (585) 409-8099.

GCEDC board to consider incentives for new $1.6 million water ride at Darien Lake

By Howard B. Owens

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors will consider approving incentives of approximately $126,000 for Six Flags Darien Lake LLC at the board’s meeting Thursday (Oct. 3).

The company is proposing to build Wahoo Wave, a new $1.575 million 60-foot tall water ride at the Hurricane Harbor water park, which is set to open next year. The project will help retain 380 jobs at one of the county’s largest sales tax revenue generators.

Since the company is seeking tax incentives of more than $100,000 a public hearing will be conducted. The public hearing will take place at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 2, in Darien Town Hall, 10569 Alleghany Road, Darien Center.

The GCEDC board also will consider accepting an application from Wright Associates for a $8.9 million capital project that would include the purchase of an existing 139,000-square-foot building on Wright Avenue in Le Roy. In addition to the land acquisition purchase, Wright Associates will invest $2 million to rehabilitate the building and $2 million to purchase new equipment. Wright Associates is seeking approximately $823,000 in mortgage, sales and property taxes.

The GCEDC Board meeting will take place at 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 3, at its offices on 99 MedTech Drive in Batavia. The meeting is open to the public.

Gas prices reported unchanged in Batavia

By Howard B. Owens

Press release from AAA:

Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $2.65, down 2 cents since last week. One year ago, the price was $2.88. The New York State average is $2.74 – down a penny from last week. A year ago, the NYS average was $2.99.

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

  • Batavia -- $2.71 (no change since last week)
  • Buffalo -- $2.70 (down 2 cents since last week)
  • Ithaca -- $2.68 (down 1 cent since last week)
  • Rochester -- $2.73 (down 2 cents since last week)
  • Rome -- $2.73 (down 1 cent since last week)
  • Syracuse -- $2.63 (down 2 cents since last week)
  • Watertown -- $2.70 (down 4 cents since last week)

At the close of Friday’s formal trading session on the NYMEX, WTI decreased by 50 cents to settle at $55.91. Oil prices were mostly mixed last week after EIA’s (Energy Information Administration) weekly report revealed that total domestic crude inventories grew. The current level is 23.5 million barrels higher than this time last year.

The higher level has kept gas prices in check after concerns that global crude demand may be impacted by the ongoing trade war between the United States and China, and global supply could be reduced due to escalating tension in the Middle East. Growing gasoline stocks are putting downward pressure on pump prices.

Pavilion's Scott posts 300 game at Rose Garden Bowl in Bergen

By Mike Pettinella

Joseph Scott registered the first 300 game of the season at Rose Garden Bowl in Bergen this week.

The 37-year-old Pavilion resident put together 12 consecutive strikes on his way to his first USBC-certified perfect game in the Wednesday Men's Handicap League.

It is his second honor score -- the first one coming in October 2005 in a 290-268-200--758 effort.

"I've had a bunch of 279s, but wasn't able to break through until now," said Scott, who resumed league bowling last season -- averaging 212 at Rose Garden Bowl -- after a five-year absence.

Using a Brunswick Vintage Inferno, Scott said he had eight strikes in an opening 255 and continued his hot hand in the second game 300. He finished with 162 for a 717 series,

"I got away with one on the last ball when I tripped a 4-pin," he said. "I tugged it by about four boards (but it held pocket for the final strike). And I really didn't focus too well in the third game (understandable considering that the emotions had to be running pretty high at that point).

Scott works at Logwell Acres dairy farm in Pavilion and bowls for the Wright Beverages team.

Other highlights of the week in Genesee Region USBC league play:

-- Jeremy Vallance of Warsaw, 266-279-234--779 in the Le Roy Moose League at Legion Lanes on Tuesday night.

-- Brandon Gurnsey and Reid Cole, 735 and 734 series, respectively, in the Sneezy's Monday Night League at Oak Orchard Bowl in Albion.

For a list of high scores, click on the Pin Points tab at the top of this page.

Genesee Symphony Orchestra performs fall concert Oct. 20 at Pembroke HS

By Billie Owens

The Genesee Symphony Orchestra will perform its fall concert at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 20, in Pembroke High School Auditorium.

It is located at 8750 Alleghany Road, Pembroke (routes 5 and 77).

S. Shade Zajaz is the music director and conducter.

"Symphonic Pictures I -- Portraits" will feature:

  • "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun" by Debussy
  • "Jon Henry" by Copland
  • "The Swan of Tuonela" by Sibelius
  • "Pictures at an Exhibition" by Mussorgsky, with arrangements by Ravel

Tickets are $15 for adults; seniors $10; students with student ID, free.

Tickets are available at Roxy's Music Store, GO ART!, The Wyngodess Shop, and Bank of Castile in Le Roy.

This concert is made possible with funds from the Decentralization Program, a regrant program of the NYS Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the NYS Legislature and administered by GO ART!

Lost dog found in the rain in Oakfield

By Howard B. Owens

Tracy Zakes found this friendly lost chap up by the U.S. Gypsum Co. plant in Oakfield during the rainstorm today. Tracy took him home and dried him off and is keeping him safe.

If this guy is your pal, call Tracy at (585) 507-6054.

Video: '22 to None' at The Firing Pin in Bergen

By Howard B. Owens
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The Firing Pin hosted a “22 to None Fun Run” in support Mission 22, an organization dedicated to assisting veterans in getting treatment when they need it most.

The event included a 2.2K fun run, raffles, food and beer.

“I have personally lost seven friends that I was deployed with to veteran suicide,” said Patrick Kimball, TFP Advanced Training director and combat veteran. “Together, we can help our veterans get the help they deserve before it’s too late.”

Two accidents reported on eastbound Thruway

By Billie Owens

East Pembroke and Indian Falls fire departments and Mercy medics are responding to two accidents on the eastbound Thruway.

A semi-truck rollover accident with injuries and entrapment is reported on the eastbound Thruway at mile marker 397.4.

A car-into-guardrail accident is reported at mile marker 396.6 on the eastbound Thruway. The driver is out and walking around.

Police trying to locate dirt bike rider fleeing on foot in quarry off of Circular Hill Road, Le Roy

By Howard B. Owens

A Le Roy PD officer is in a foot pursuit of a dirt bike rider in a quarry off of Circular Hill Road in Le Roy.

The rider failed to yield when the officer tried to make a traffic stop.

Deputies are arriving on scene to assist in the search for the rider.

UPDATE 3:16 p.m.: A deputy is with a dirt bike on Gulf Road. Unclear if it's directly related to the previous report or if there is a rider with this bike.

UPDATE 3:20 p.m.: It sounds like at least one person is detained.

Sponsored Post: Dolce Panepinto: Frequently asked workers' compensation questions

By Lisa Ace


Commonly Asked Workers’ Compensation Questions:
Q. What is a Workers’ Compensation claim?
A. A Workers’ Compensation claim is a legal action that occurs when you get hurt during the course of your employment. In New York State you cannot sue your employer. When you get hurt at work, the Workers’ Compensation system provides for lost time financial payments and medical treatment required as a result of your work-related injury.

Q. How do I know if I have a Workers’ Compensation claim?
A. If you sustain an injury during the course of your employment, you should contact our office for a free case evaluation as soon as possible. We can help you determine if you have a Workers’ Compensation claim and assist you in filing the proper paperwork.

Q. How long do I have to file a Workers’ Compensation claim?
A. You are required to report your injury to your employer within 30 days. There is also a two-year time limit to file a claim with the Workers’ Compensation Board. Failure to adhere to these time limits can result in a denial of your claim.

Q. Is a Workers’ Compensation claim my only recourse if I am hurt at work?
A. In New York State, you cannot sue your employer. In some circumstances, a personal injury lawsuit can be filed in addition to a Workers’ Compensation claim. This includes, but is not limited to, injuries sustained in a work-related motor vehicle accident, constructions injuries, or injuries sustained at a location not owned by your employer. Our team of attorneys at Dolce Panepinto will assess your claim to ensure that every legal avenue available to you is pursued.

Q. How much does a Workers’ Compensation Attorney cost? 
A. Workers’ Compensation fees are generated on a contingent basis. This means that we only receive payment if we generate money in connection with your Workers’ Compensation claim. More information on contingent fees can be found here. Additionally, our attorneys can explain our attorney fees in greater detail.

Q. Do I need an attorney?
A. While an attorney is not required, it is strongly recommended that you retain an attorney. The Workers’ Compensation Law is complex, confusing, and often difficult to navigate. The insurance carrier will have an attorney fighting on their behalf, we recommend that you have an attorney fighting on your behalf. Having an attorney means ensuring your rights are protected, maximizing your benefits, and making sure your questions and concerns are addressed.

Dolce Panepinto works tirelessly to protect the rights of injured workers by making sure that those responsible are held accountable. If you or a family member are injured at work, or in your private life, contact us today for a free case evaluation at 585-815-9003. For further questions regarding Worker's Compensation Law or to contact Dolce Panepinto: click here.

Batavia rallies to beat Geneva 44-7

By Howard B. Owens
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First the Blue Devils lost Josh Barber then they suffered a lopsided upset at Honeoye Falls-Lima the next week, but last night they bounced back for a convincing 44-7 win at home against Geneva.

"Last week, obviously, it was our first game without Josh Barber," said Head Coach Brennan Briggs. "You know it's kind of the shell shock a little bit. We didn't have that MIC linebacker-guard in there. And you know that's a tough toll for a high school kid to deal with. I think it was still we were a little bit shell shocked.

"They punched us to the mouth last Friday and we didn't respond but I think we found ourselves this week. We got some pieces in place, moved some guys up, and everybody played for the name on the front the jersey tonight and they were willing to sacrifice whatever it took to win for the name on the front of the jersey and I'm just proud of these guys."

Terez Smith was the offensive star of the night going for 276 yards on 22 carries. He scored three touchdowns. Cody Burns added two touchdowns on 16 carries for 126 yards.

Jesse Reinhart took over at quarterback, with Alex Rood moving to fullback, and was four of seven passing for 72 yards and a touchdown.

Rood caught three passes for 66 yards and a TD. He also had 29 yards on five carries.

On defense, Burns had seven tackles. Matt Beach and Cam White each had four tackles and Beach also forced a fumble and had a fumble recovery.

Near the end of the game, Kam Culver took over at running back and had four carries for 40 yards.

In other Friday night action:

Notre Dame beat Clyde-Savannah 34-12. Gabe Macdonald rushed for 231 yards on 16 carries and he scored twice. He had 25 reception yards and on defense had an interception and six tackles. Jed Reese carried the ball 20 times for 157 yards and two TDs. He had six tackles. Mark Sanders had an interception and a 25-yard kick return for a TD. Dakota Sica led ND with; 13 tackles; Mason Randall had eight tackles and a sack.

Alexander 24 beat York/Pavilion 0.

Cal-Mum/Byron-Bergen won 47-0 over Mynderse/South Seneca. Bryce Yockel had 160 yards on 14 carries and scored on the ground three times. Joey Laursen was 11 of 23 passing and connected on two TD receptions. Adam O’Donoghue had a 66-yard pick-six.

Le Roy's game against Avon was moved to Saturday night.

In eight-man football, Oakfield-Alabama/Elba  beat Frewsburg 66-14.

Photos by Steve Ognibene.

To view or purchase photos, click here.

Law and Order: One person charged with possessing controlled substances, another accused of DWI

By Billie Owens

Dain Ostertag Kilian, 36, of Saltval Road, Warsaw, is charged with: two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree; aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree; and inadequate exhaust/muffler system. At 12:28 a.m. on Sept. 27, Kilian was arrested on Clinton Street Road in Bergen following a traffic stop. After further investigation, it is alleged that Kilian possessed controlled substances. The defendant was released on appearance tickets and is due in Bergen Town Court on Oct. 9. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore.

Scott Patrick Bumbarger, 25, of South Lake Avenue, Bergen, is charged with: driving while intoxicated -- with a BAC of .08 percent or more; DWI; and having an uninspected motor vehicle. Bumbarger was arrested at 10:05 p.m. on Sept. 20 on Clinton Street Road in Bergen following a traffic stop for an uninspected vehicle. He was issued appearance tickets and is due in Bergen Town Court on Oct. 2. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy James Stack.

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