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Sponsored Post: Batavia's biggest Christmas Happy Hour is Tuesday night at T.F. Brown's

By Billie Owens

The biggest Christmas Happy Hour in Batavia is set for 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday (Dec. 18) at T.F. Brown's downtown.

Bring a new, unwrapped toy and receive a complimentary cup of cheer! Toys will benefit the children who attend the annual T.F. Brown's/Batavia Lions Club Christmas Dinner.

There will be dinner and drink specials available all night and DJ Pat will be spinning the tunes!

Cheers!

Batavia man who admitted to meth distribution given two years probation

By Howard B. Owens

Another member of an alleged meth distribution ring in Genesee County that was broken up in 2009 has been sentenced in federal court, the U.S. Attorney's Office announced today.

Andrew Chapman, 42, of Batavia, will serve two years on probation for his part in the distribution of methamphetamine.

In June, Chapman admitted in federal court to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, methamphetamine.

Chapman received the meth he sold from Donald G. Vanelli II, 49, of Le Roy, who is serving more than 17 years for his role in the sale and distribution of meth locally.

Three other people were arrested in the raids in 2009.

All of the cases have been resolved, except that of Donna L. Boon (aka Donna McAuley), who lives at 3658 Batavia-Oakfield Townline Road. Her original charges were dropped but she remains under federal indictment for other alleged offenses.

Law and Order: Oakfield woman accused of trying to harm neighbor's dog

By Howard B. Owens

Roxanne G. Rowe, 25, of Maple Avenue, Oakfield, is charged with animal cruelty and unlawful possession of marijuana. Rowe is accused of trying to harm a neighbor's dog by placing pieces of metal in a meat product and making it available for the dog to eat. At the time of her arrest -- 10:15 a.m., Saturday, by Deputy Brian Thompson -- Rowe also allegedly possessed marijuana.

Lakiesha A. Gibson, 26, of 13 Williams St., Lockport, is charged with disorderly conduct and endangering the welfare of a child. Gibson is accused of shouting obscenities while outside on Thorpe Street at 10:20 p.m., Saturday. Gibson also allegedly refused to remove two children out of the roadway and away from a dispute.

Timothy J. Wenzel, 19, of 13 Harvester Ave., Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt, 2nd. Wenzel was allegedly seen with a person who is protected by a "stay away" order of protection.

Makeen K. Ithna-Asheri, 52, of 111 State St., Batavia, is charged with criminal trespass, 2nd. Ithna-Asheri allegedly entered a residence he had previously been advised not to enter.

Danielle M. Stevens, 36, of Ford Road, Elba, is charged with three counts of petit larceny. Stevens is accused of stealing $140 and a gold pendant from a relative's house within a six-week period. Stevens was jailed on $500 bail.

Brenden Kirstipher Steck, 23, of Broadway Road, Darien, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. Steck was allegedly found to be the operator of a disabled motor vehicle on Route 20 in Darien at 1:15 a.m., Saturday, by Deputy James Diehl.

Joseph E. Marr, 34, of Attica, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. Marr was reportedly involved in a motor vehicle accident at 10:13 p.m. Friday on Keeney Road, Le Roy. He was arrested by State Police.

Corfu teen dies in Orleans County crash Sunday night

By Howard B. Owens

For the second time in eight days, a motor vehicle accident has claimed the life of a Genesee County teen.

Kelsey Milks, 19, of Corfu, died Sunday night in a three-car accident on Alleghany Road, Town of Shelby, just north of the county line.

The cause of the accident has not been determined.

Milks was a passenger in a vehicle driven by 20-year-old Dana R. Cipra. Cipra is hospitalized at Erie County Medical Center.

Two Mercy Flight helicopters were called to the scene Sunday and Town of Alabama volunteer firefighters provided traffic control and set up a landing zone at a location in Genesee County.

According to WIVB, "a red minivan was traveling north on Route 63, near the Iroquois Wildlife Refuge Swamp, when it collided head-on with a southbound car. A third vehicle then collided with the car."

Walter C. Hawkins, 73, of Medina, was driving the minivan. He was treated and released at Medina Memorial Hospital.

The driver and passenger in the third vehicle were uninjured.

Milks was a senior at Pembroke High School when she participated in a GO ART! art show.

Friends and family gather for prayer walk in remembrance of Collin Crane

By Howard B. Owens

There was an outpouring of remembrance, love and prayer in Batavia on Sunday evening as more than 70 people gathered to honor the life of Collin Crane.

The 17-year-old Batavia High School senior and avid hockey player died Dec. 8 in a head-on collision on Route 33 in Stafford.

"Help everyone here," Daniel King prayed when the gathering reached the Falleti Ice Arena. "Help everyone here get through life. Help them know they're not alone. Let them know they will see Collin again some day. Let them know that he is a beautiful angel, guiding them and watching over them."

King organized the prayer walk with Collin's friends and family members.

Collin was remembered as a loving and funny young man who was always good to the people in his life.

Jamie McClurg, Collin's sister, said she will always remember what a good brother and what a good friend he was to her.

"Anybody who goes on my Facebook will see I posted a picture of him every day or every other day," McClurg said. "We even worked together. He was always funny. I look around everywhere I go and there are so many memories. Even here, when we were 6 or 7, we would walk across that little barrier there (at Falleti) and he would hold my hand."

Even though Collin was younger, Jamie said, he would do a lot of hand-holding for his sister, offering to "take care" of anybody at school who gave her a hard time, and she ran to his room during late night thunderstorms.

"He was always the one who was there for me," she said.

King's friend Nicholas Argento told Collin's friends and family as they gathered around the city's Christmas tree on East Main Street that they will keep Collin's spirit alive in their hearts.

The support from the community has meant a lot to Collin's family, Jamie said. It's helped them through a very tough time.

Collin was a special friend, Daniel said. He was kind, funny and very loving.

He put together the walk, he said, for Collin and for his family.

"I care a lot about the family and just about Collin," Daniel said. "I wanted to show my respect for him and his family. I wanted to show that someone is there for them in this time of need."

In her prayer, Jamie asked God to remind people that Collin wasn't the kind of guy who would want people to be sad now that he's gone.

"Know that every time you're sad or upset, just know that Collin wouldn't want you to be sad over him," Jamie said. "He always brought smiles to everyone's face and he doesn't want anybody to be upset."

Daniel King

Jamie McClurg

Nicholas Argento

Route 77 north into Orleans County being shut down for motor vehicle accident

By Howard B. Owens

Orleans County is working a motor vehicle accident on Route 77 and Alabama fire police have been dispatched to shut down northbound traffic at Roberts Road.

We have no further information on the actual accident.

UPDATE 7:16 p.m.: Alabama Fire Department asked to set up a landing zone for Mercy Flight.

UPDATE 7:42 p.m.: Two Mercy Flight helicopters have landed at the Alabama landing zone, but one needs to move to a location north of the accident because the roadway is impassible for the transport ambulance.

UPDATE 7:49 p.m.: Route 77 will be shut down for quite some time, according to an Alabama chief. Mercy EMS being dispatched to scene. One patient taken to Medina's hospital, the second bird sent to a Shelby landing location. It was a two-car head-on collision.

Correction: Though Route 77 is Alleghany Road through most of Genesee County, it stays Alleghany Road heading north at the intersection with Lewiston Road. At the intersection Route 77 jogs to the west. It's Route 63 (as a commenter points out) after the intersection of Alleghany and Lewiston. In this post, I transposed the dispatchers saying Alleghany Road to "Route 77" without realizing that section of Alleghany Road is actually Route 63.

Bathroom fire reported at Wilson Farms Market at Cedar and Ellicott

By Billie Owens

A fire in the bathroom is reported at the Wilson Farms Market at the corner of Cedar and Ellicott streets. Upon arrival city fire reported "nothing showing." But once inside, they confirmed a small blaze and said they should be able to put it out with a water can.

UPDATE 1:41 p.m.: City command reports the fire is out. It was started by a bathroom vent fan and firefighters are breaking into the ceiling the make sure the problem is resolved.

UPDATE 1:48 p.m.: A rep from the county Health Department is called to respond.

UPDATE 2:39 p.m.: The city assignment is back in service. A rep from the Health Department is at the store.

Prayer walk of remembrance for Collin Crane planned for Sunday evening

By Howard B. Owens

A prayer walk in remembrance of Collin Crane will start at 6 p.m. Sunday at St. Joseph's Parish in Batavia. It's located at 303 E. Main St.

Crane, a 17-year-old senior at Batavia High School, died a week ago in a two-car accident on Route 33, Stafford.

Participants will walk down Main Street with a stop at each street for a prayer.  Organizers ask that people bring a picture of him or share something about him. They should also bring a candle or flashlight.

Photos: Santa makes his rounds in Genesee County

By Howard B. Owens

Santa had a busy day in Genesee County today and I did my best to keep up with him. 

I first found him at the Holland Land Office Museum, where his appearance coincided with the annual Children's Gala. Children made cookies, watched Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, ate pizza and let Santa in on what presents they'll be dreaming about on Christmas Eve.

Next, I found Santa at Alli's Cones and Dogs in Oakfield. At Alli's, both children and adults whispered in Santa's ear.

Finally, Santa promised the Genesee Sno Packers at their annual open house that their Christmas wish for snow will be granted. He also added all the good children who came to visit him to his long list of boys and girls who will find their desired gifts on Christmas morning.

More photos in the slide show. Parents who wish to purchase prints should click on the "visit gallery" link in the slide show.

Photos: Crafts sale at Polish Falcons

By Howard B. Owens

It was a very crafty day at the Polish Falcons hall on Swan Street with more than a dozen vendors on hand to sell Christmas gifts.

A portion of the proceeds benefits the HORSE Rescue in Pavilion.

Accident on Galloway Road, possible injuries, pole and wires down

By Howard B. Owens

A motor vehicle accident, believed to be with injuries, is reported in the area of 3622 Galloway Road, Batavia.

That's just off Route 63 near Oakfield.

A pole and wires are reportedly down.

Town of Batavia along with Mercy EMS responding.

UPDATE 5:49 p.m.: Galloway being closed at Kelsey.

UPDATE 5:56 p.m.: No entrapment. Two patients out of the vehicle and sitting in a sergeant's car. Traffic control requested at Galloway in Lewiston. National Grid notified. No ETA.


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Two women brawl in front of BJ's

By Billie Owens

Two women were reportedly fighting in front of BJ's Wholesale Club and one of them is now "walking toward the Chinese restaurant." One has blond hair and the other has brown curly hair. Law enforcement is responding.

GCC alumnus, Vietnam veteran is grateful for 'second chance'

By Daniel Crofts

Jim Lachman likes to tell people that in 1968 he went to Vietnam to kill Vietnamese, but in 2012 he went to paint their nails.

Lachman, of Brockport, is a 2010 graduate of Genesee Community College and is currently pursuing a Bachelors in Social Work at the College at Brockport. 

A Vietnam veteran, Lachman had the opportunity to return to the battleground this past year -- not as a soldier, but as a guest. Through Brockport's Vietnam Program, he earned 15 college credits studying Vietnamese culture and completed many hours of community service in the city of Danang. He chronicled his experience in a blog called "Danang again." (There's a link at the end of the article.)

On Nov. 13, he contrasted his two experiences in Vietnam in a speech titled "A Forty-Year Journey from Vietnam to Vietnam," which was held at his alma mater, GCC. We invited him to sit down with us and share some of his insights for readers of The Batavian.

Lachman and his wife, Bernie -- who joined him for part of his stay in Vietnam -- were interviewed at Coffee Culture in Batavia last week.

What did you do in the Vietnam War?

Jim: I was part of the C-130 Squadron in the Marines. I worked on large airplanes called VMGR 152s. We were stationed in Okinawa, but we had a sub-unit in Danang. I was there for three months, then I went back to Okinawa. Then I spent three months with the flight crew as a plane mechanic, so I was in and out of Vietnam, Thailand, and up and down different airstrips. We flew cargo and troops back and forth. Most of the missions I flew were flight-refueling operations.

So you didn't see any combat, correct?

Jim: No. I was one of the lucky few who weren't exposed to any of that.

How did you get involved in Brockport's Vietnam Program?

Jim: I was in a U.S. History class at GCC in 2010, and there was a little Asian woman sitting next to me. I asked her where she was from, and she said Vietnam. We developed a friendship -- I asked questions. She told me about a study abroad program in Vietnam at Brockport, and I said "Oh, okay..."

What exactly did you do while studying abroad in Vietnam?

Jim: I probably got about 100 hours of community service while I was in Vietnam.  There was a large community service component.

Each week we spent an hour and a half in a nursing home with ladies in their 80s and 90s (there were some men, too). We helped them pick mulberries and peanuts, and they loved to have their nails trimmed and painted.

Then we did an hour and a half a week at Agent Orange group home, and we also did home visits to kids who were too sick to come to the group home.  

Bernie: We know the effects of agent orange on American soldiers, but we don't know about the effect it had on the people who live in Vietnam. It has affected three generations with birth defects, mental sickness, (etc.) 

Jim: The way I like to put it is, we put poison in their backyard and it's still there.

We also did English instruction two nights a week and delivered food and medical supplies to a leper village. Then we got 15 credit hours studying Vietnamese history, politics, culture and language.

What was the big difference between your first visit and your second?

Jim: I contributed to the death of two million Vietnamese people by being part of the war. By contrast, in 2012 I learned about the culture and the people, and I connected with them on a human level. And I fell in love with them.

A former Viet Cong chairman who now writes for "Da Nang Today" (a Danang newspaper) interviewed me for an article on a "former invader who was coming back to do good." He asked me questions, and he was very curious. But if we had met 40 years ago, someone would have been taken prisoner.

Today, Vietnam is a wonderful vacation spot. You see people there from China, Australia, Russia...They have wonderful and very cheap accommodations, beautiful beaches...and the Vietnamese people don't like the sun, so we'd have the beach almost to ourselves (during the day).

Bernie: I came to visit Jim for a month. It was a two thousand dollar round trip by airplane, and that was the most money I spent the whole time.

I shopped at the tailor stores, which are family owned businesses. The Vietnamese are known through much of the world for their tailor-made clothes.

As a woman in Danang, I could walk safely at night. I couldn't do that in Batavia.  All the stores (in Danang) are street-level. (Store owners) got to know me, and I knew that if anyone ever tried to molest me in the street, they'd be all over them.

I went into a bookstore once, and no one there knew English. So they went two stores down and found someone who did. That's what they want -- they want to communicate.

And they revere the elderly. One time we went into a coffee shop, and one of the first questions they asked before seating us was, "How old are you?" Because we're over 40, we were always in the most honored spot.

Jim: And (accepting that courtesy) was part of my being a guest, part of accepting the culture as it was. One of the things the Vietnam Program page on the Brockport Web site says is that as students, we are guests of the Vietnamese government. So that's how I conducted myself. The last thing I wanted was to be an "ugly American."

At every other place I had served (in the Marines), I had the opportunity to connect with the people and the culture. Going back to Vietnam, it was like I had a second chance, you know?

Even if I didn't like an experience, I would try to write about it in a positive way on my blog. At the exit dinner (held at the end of the program), one of the chairmen said, "We've been enjoying your blog" -- "we" meaning the Communist Party.  When I told my son about that, he said: "Well, did you think they wouldn't?"  Honestly, I never thought about it -- I just wrote from the heart.

What would you want people today to know about the Vietnam War?

The man who taught my politics class was in charge of the Liberation Front (the enemy) in Danang back in '68. He said Vietnam has a "market economy with a socialist orientation." It seems to me that their government works as well for them as ours does for us. I often wonder what would have happened if the U.S. had allowed the Vietnamese to have their elections the way they had planned. When the U.S. got involved, it went from 1956-1975 until (the Vietnamese) could unify their country.

Bernie: People our age will ask us, "Did you go to North Vietnam or South Vietnam?" It's just Vietnam now.

Jim: I can think of two men in history who wanted to preserve national union: Abraham Lincoln and Ho Chi Minh. They both wanted the same thing.

After doing some research, I found out that what I was taught about Communism and Ho Chi Minh growing up might not have been the truth.

So then you would say that the Vietnam War was not worth it in the end?

Jim: In humanistic terms, I would have to say no. It wasn't worth all that death.

What I was told when I went over was that I was being sent to stop Communism.  After I came home, I discovered the real reason: The U.S. military was serving as the hired guns of capitalism. The reason (for the war) was that the capitalists in charge of the U.S. government wanted to control all trade in and out of Southeast Asia.

We would have been better off staying out of the whole thing and allowing the Vietnamese to have their elections and be the government they were going to be. It would have saved a lot of lives.

As an American military man in Vietnam, how were you treated when you returned home?

Jim: When I came back in July of 1969, I had heard the stories. So when I came into Travis Air Force Base in California, I put on civilian clothes in the bathroom. I made the choice not to call any attention to myself. Even today, I choose not to wear (my Marines hat), because I just got used to that.

Bernie: When I was a sergeant instructor in the Reserves (in the 1970s and 1980s), we were taught not to wear our uniforms when travelling on a civilian conveyance. Then when the Vietnam veterans insisted that the Desert Storm soldiers be honored, the culture changed. It went from "we're against the war" to "we support our troops."

What led you to speak about your experience at GCC on Nov. 13?

Jim: I was there because of Josephine Kerney, who was my sociology professor (at GCC). She does a lot of study abroad stuff, so in association with the Vietnam Program I'd run into her at fairs and such. I talked about the contrast between my first trip to Vietnam and my second, and it fascinated her. She wondered if I would come in and talk to her class about it, and that led to it being a larger event where anyone could come.

Do you have any thoughts on the current war in Afghanistan?

What I learned from my Vietnam experience was that I can't trust the government. I wonder what my government is lying to me about now. Is (the war in Afghanistan) about money? Is it about pharmaceutical interest in what we can extract from the poppy that grows there?

I've heard it said that "Afghanistan is where empires go to die." Alexander the Great tried (to invade), the Russians tried it, and now it's us.

A Kodak retiree, Lachman returned to school in 2008 out of a desire to become a counselor for military veterans. Currently in his junior year at Brockport, he plans to go on for a master's degree so that he can counsel veterans "who saw things that no one should have to see."

For more information on his experience, go to www.danangagain.blogspot.com.

Scams reportedly calling city residents demanding money to avoid DEA raid

By Howard B. Owens

If somebody calls your house claiming to be a DEA agent or from some other agency and threatens to raid your house unless you pay up a sum of money -- it's a scam.

Apparently, this is an ongoing scam and the Batavia PD is warning residents not to fall for it.

"The Batavia Police Department would like remind citizens to not provide personal information or send money to individuals over the phone," states the press release.

Sheriff's Office presents annual awards to deputies and support staff

By Howard B. Owens

Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, a 20-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office, was named Officer of the Year today in a ceremony at the Park Road headquarters. Sanfratello, center above, with Undersheriff William Sheron and Sheriff Gary Maha, was honored for his work reorganizing and streamlining many of the operations associated with the records and civil office, road patrol and Darien Lake concert details.

Principal Financial Clerk Mary L. Hecht was honored with the Distinguished Service Award, the highest award in the department for non-sworn members. Hecht received the award for her many years of diligent attention to the financial needs of the jail bureau. According to the award statement, Hecht frequently assists jail staff and the administration with tasks that go well beyond her listed duties to ensure the smooth running of the facility.

 

Deputy Matthew Butler and Le Roy Police Officer Emily Clark were honored for their handling of a situation in the spring when an attempt by Butler to arrest a member of a family living on Maple Street led to other relatives allegedly intervening. Allegedly, a knife was held to the chest of Butler by one member of the family and Clark sustain a cut on her hand during the altercation. All suspects were subsequently taken into custody without any further injury to suspects or officers. Chief Deputy Gordon Dibble presents the award to Butler and Clark.

Below is a slide show of more pictures from the awards ceremony. To purchase prints of the pictures, click the "view gallery" link in the slide show. After the jump (click on the headline), is the press release from the Sheriff's Office followed by a copy of the text from each award presented today.

Genesee County Sheriff’s Office Announces 2012 Departmental Awards

OFFICER OF THE YEAR – DEPUTY SHERIFF THOMAS A SANFRATELLO

Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello has distinguished himself in the performance of service to the members of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of Genesee County during 2012. Using his wide range of abilities, Sergeant Sanfratello has proactively reorganized and streamlined many of the operations associated with the Records and Civil Office, Road Patrol and Darien Lake Concert Details. Additionally, Sergeant Sanfratello has provided in-service training to his fellow employees which has contributed to improving the efficiency of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello excelled in the performance of his duties throughout 2012 which makes him deserving of this award, and he has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff's Office.

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD – PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL CLERK -  MARY L. HECHT

Principal Financial Clerk Mary L. Hecht has distinguished herself as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Mary’s professionalism to the citizens of Genesee County, coupled with her knowledge of Jail Bureau operations, has been a source of pride for this Agency. This year, as in previous years, Mary continues to pay diligent attention to the financial needs of the Jail Bureau. Mary frequently assists jail staff and the administration with tasks that go well beyond her listed duties to ensure the smooth running of the facility. Mary is always willing to take on additional responsibilities at the Jail Bureau, at times performing the workload of several other people. Mary Hecht reflects great credit upon herself and the Genesee County Sheriff's Office.

Longevity Awards

Genesee Justice Principal Clerk, Catherine T. Uhly, 10 years
Genesee Justice Case Manager, Aimee Weierheiser
Dispatcher Beth A. Hynes-Fisher
Dispatcher Robert H. Tripp
Correction Officer Michael F. Lindsley
Animal Control Officer Agnes S. Jaroszewski
Deputy Matthew R. Butler, 15 years
Deputy Christopher A. Parker
Investigator William T. Ferrando Jr., 20 years
Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello
Deputy Dana J. Richardson
Deputy John L. Baiocco
Sr. Dispatcher Daniel L. Rieks
Deputy Lonnie A. Nati
Sgt. Gregory H. Walker, 25 years
Sr. Correction Officer William A. Zipfel, 30 years
Sgt. William C. Scott, 35 years
Undersheriff William A. Sheron Jr.
Sheriff Gary T. Maha, 45 years

Certificate of Appreciation

Le Roy Police Officer Emily J. Clark
Genesee Justice Staff
Darien Lake Safety, Security and Loss Prevention Manager Greg Kellogg    

Commendation

Deputy Kevin R. McCarthy
Deputy Timothy G. Wescott
Correction Officer Daniel J. Renz
Deputy Matthew R. Butler
Emergency Services Dispatcher Nathan L. Fix
Deputy Patrick J. Reeves
Emergency Services Dispatcher Barbara J. Eddy
Sr. Emergency Services Dispatcher Daniel L. Rieks
Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer
Sr. Correction Officer Richard C. Calkins
Correction Officer Robert W. Matice
Correction Officer Walter M. Kolmetz
Deputy Brian A. Thompson
Sr. Correction Officer William A. Zipfel

Meritorious

Deputy Howard J. Carlson     
Emergency Services Dispatcher Robert H. Tripp
Deputy Edward E. Vlack  
Sergeant Gregory H. Walker       

Text from award certificates:

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend appreciation to all Genesee Justice personnel for their devotion in maintaining the efficient and effective operations of Genesee Justice and the Children’s Advocacy Center during a difficult transitional period during 2012. Their unwavering dedication is sincerely appreciated by all criminal justice organizations and victims served by their services. The men and women of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office would like to commend Genesee Justice staff and extend our thanks and appreciation.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend appreciation to Safety Security and Loss Prevention Manager Greg Kellogg of Darien Lake Theme Park for exemplary assistance and service rendered during the 2012 Darien Lake concert season. Mr. Kellogg worked and planned extensively with members of the Sheriff’s Office to ensure patrons experienced a safe and enjoyable concert. His dedication and professionalism went beyond what would normally be expected. The men and women of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to Greg Kellogg and his security staff.

The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend appreciation to Village of Le Roy Police Officer Emily J. Clark for exemplary assistance during an incident that took place in the spring of 2012. Deputy Butler was attempting to take a resisting suspect into custody when one of the suspect’s family members threatened Deputy Butler with a knife as he struggled with the suspect. Officer Clark was able to disarm the assailant, suffering a laceration to her hand in the process. Officer Clark’s quick actions possibly prevented injury to Deputy Butler and the possible escape of the suspect. Her part in the follow-up investigation resulted in charges against the interfering parties. The men and women of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to Officer Emily J. Clark.

Deputy Matthew R. Butler is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions while on duty during the spring of 2012. Deputy Butler went to a residence in the Village of Le Roy to effect an arrest. The suspect resisted arrest and during the ensuing altercation, the suspect’s family and other occupants of the house physically interfered with the arrest. At one point in the altercation a family member placed a knife against Deputy Butler’s side. None the less, Deputy Butler was able to take the suspect into custody with the assistance of a Le Roy Police Officer. Deputy Matthew R. Butler has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Timothy G. Wescott is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions on August 12, 2012. At approximately 1600 hours, a 9-1-1 call was received reporting a three-year-old boy missing. The caller was the boy’s 10-year-old brother who had very little information and the parents only spoke Spanish. Additionally, the missing boy had developmental disabilities limiting his ability to call out for help. Deputy Wescott participated in an extensive search of the area. Due to Deputy Wescott’s determination and aggressive search efforts, the 3-year-old was found and safely returned to his family. Deputy Timothy G. Wescott has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Patrick J. Reeves is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions on August 12, 2012. At approximately 1600 hours, a 9-1-1 call was received reporting a 3-year-old boy missing. The caller was the boy’s 10-year-old brother who had very little information and the parents only spoke Spanish. Additionally, the missing boy had developmental disabilities and might not be able to call out for help. Patrols arrived at the scene and Deputy Reeves participated in an extensive search of the area. Deputy Reeves used his keen experience and knowledge of the outdoors and located the boy in a hedgerow. Deputy Patrick Reeves has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Kevin R. McCarthy is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions on December 7, 2011. A farm employee was working alone in an operating grain hopper when her right leg and arm became caught in the auger. Deputy McCarthy climbed into the hopper to comfort the girl, as emergency responders worked to free her over the next hour and a half. His extensive knowledge of farm equipment was instrumental in successfully freeing the victim. Deputy Kevin R. McCarthy has brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Brian A. Thompson is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions on September 29, 2012. Deputy Thompson worked on a case that involved a 16-year-old girl who was reportedly taken in the middle of the night by a 28-year-old male. Deputy Thompson kept the involved families informed while he worked intensely on the investigation with several law enforcement agencies, including the F.B.I. After several hours, the suspect’s vehicle was located in the State of Kentucky, the man was taken into custody and the victim was reunited with her family. Deputy Thompson’s caring and compassionate treatment of the families and his diligent investigation brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Emergency Services Dispatcher Barbara J. Eddy is being recognized for a Commendation Award for her actions on September 9, 2012. Emergency Services Dispatcher Eddy assisted with handling of a 9-1-1 call regarding a 16-year-old girl that was taken in the middle of the night by a known suspect. Dispatcher Eddy contacted several law enforcement agencies, as well as Verizon Wireless, to track the missing girl’s phone throughout New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Kentucky. In addition to assisting with this call, Dispatcher Eddy continued to answer incoming 9-1-1 calls and radio transmissions in an efficient and professional manner. After several hours, the suspect’s vehicle was located in the State of Kentucky. The suspect was taken into custody and the victim was reunited with her family. Emergency Services Dispatcher Eddy is to be commended for her service.

Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher Daniel L. Rieks is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions on September 9, 2012. Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher Rieks assisted with the handling of a 9-1-1 call regarding a 16-year-old girl that was taken in the middle of the night by a known suspect. Senior Dispatcher Rieks contacted several law enforcement agencies, as well as Verizon Wireless, to track the missing girl’s phone throughout New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio and Kentucky. After several hours, the suspect’s vehicle was located in the State of Kentucky. The suspect was taken into custody and the victim was reunited with her family. Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher Rieks is to be commended for his service.

Emergency Services Dispatcher Nathan L. Fix is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions on May 13, 2012. At approximately 1400 hours, Emergency Services Dispatcher Fix was one of two dispatchers who handled a 9-1-1 call regarding a man down at a residence in Pembroke. While emergency medical instructions were being given over the phone to the man’s wife, Dispatcher Fix was simultaneously dispatching first responders. The quick actions of Emergency Services Dispatcher Fix were instrumental in enabling responders time to resuscitate the victim and transport him to United Memorial Medical Center, which allowed the victim’s family additional time with their loved one before he passed. Emergency Services Dispatcher Fix is to be commended for his service.

Emergency Services Dispatcher John W. Spencer is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions on May 13, 2012. At approximately 1400 hours, Emergency Services Dispatcher Spencer was one of two dispatchers who handled a 9-1-1 call regarding a man down at a residence in Pembroke. Dispatcher Spencer did an excellent job reassuring the caller, using the breathing diagnostic, and giving pre-arrival instructions while first responder crews were en route. Emergency Services Dispatcher Spencer was a major contributor to responders being able to resuscitate the victim and transport him to United Memorial Medical Center, which allowed the victim’s family additional time with their loved one before he passed. Senior Emergency Services Dispatcher Spencer is to be commended for his service.

Correction Officer Walter M. Kolmetz is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions while on duty on November 17, 2012. A Genesee County Jail inmate was found hanging in his cell with a sheet tied around his neck. The inmate had tied the sheet to the jail cell door in a way that if the door were opened, the noose would tighten around his neck. Correction Officer Kolmetz was able to reach into the cell with one arm and lift the inmate’s body enough to loosen the noose around the inmate’s neck. Once the tension was released from the sheet, the door to the cell sprung back striking Kolmetz’s shoulder, causing injury. Correction Officer Kolmetz’s perseverance resulted in saving the life of the inmate. Correction Officer Walter M. Kolmetz continues to reflect great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Correction Officer Robert W. Mattice is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions while on duty on August 7, 2012. Correction Officer Mattice was assigned to the first floor area of the Jail. Upon receiving a note from an inmate requesting to see mental health, Correction Officer Mattice immediately alerted mental health and the jail administration that he would be closely observing this inmate until he could be seen by a clinician. Later that shift, Correction Officer Mattice observed the inmate hanging in his cell with a sheet tied around his neck. Correction Officer Mattice quickly entered the cell, lifted the inmate and then cut the sheet with the assistance of a fellow correction officer responding to his request for assistance. As a result of Correction Officer Mattice’s diligence, the life of an inmate was saved. Correction Officer Robert W. Mattice continues to reflect great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Senior Correction Officer William A. Zipfel is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions while on duty on July 24, 2012. At approximately 2300 hours, an inmate attempted to escape from the Genesee County Jail. The inmate was able to make his way into the basement of the Jail, and during a thorough search of the facility, Senior Correction Officer Zipfel noticed a closed door in the basement that was open earlier in the search. The K-9 was brought into that room and the inmate was apprehended. Senior Correction Officer Zipfel’s alertness was a major contribution to the capture of the inmate. Senior Correction Officer William A. Zipfel continues to reflect great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff's Office.

Senior Correction Officer Richard C. Calkins is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions while on duty on July 24, 2012. At approximately 2300 hours, an inmate attempted to escape from the Genesee County Jail.Immediately upon noticing the inmates absence from his cell, Senior Correction Officer Calkins called for assistance and had a multi-agency perimeter established around the Jail. The inmate was able to make his way into the basement of the Jail but was unable to exit the building due to the perimeter of officers around the building. Senior Correction Officer Calkins’ quick response resulted in containing the inmate to the inside of the Jail and a short time later, apprehension. Senior Correction Officer Calkins continues to reflect great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Correction Officer Daniel J. Renz is being recognized for a Commendation Award for his actions on January 27, 2012. Correction Officer Renz, while assigned to the first floor area of the Genesee County Jail, heard an inmate yell out in an angry manner. Correction Officer Renz immediately turned from punching the time clock and went to the area in question. He observed one inmate straddling another inmate with his hands around his neck, obstructing his ability to breathe. Correction Officer Renz ordered the aggressor to stop and lock in his cell immediately. The inmate disengaged his hold from the other inmate and faced him in a hostile manner, eventually resulting in his return to his cell after several more orders to lock in. Correction Officer Renz then entered the max day area and attended to the prone inmate while summoning assistance from the nurse Bryan and other jail staff. Correction Officer Renz, without hesitation, was able to intervene in an inmate’s strangulation of another inmate which avoided the potential for serious injury or death. Correction Officer Renz continues to reflect great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Howard J. Carlson has distinguished himself by Meritorious Service as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Twice this year, Deputy Carlson spotted a suspect vehicle fleeing the scene of a crime, which resulted in the arrest and recovery of stolen property. In January of this year, Deputy Carlson was faced with a suicide that occurred in front of a family member. Upon his arrival, he immediately was faced with a hysterical female and an unknown set of circumstances, which he sorted out and handled efficiently while taking care to treat the victim and family member with respect, compassion and dignity. Deputy Howard J. Carlson consistently brings great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Sergeant Gregory H. Walker has distinguished himself by Meritorious Service as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Sergeant Walker has consistently lead his road patrols for the last 15 years “from the front,” setting an example of excellence with energy each and every day. He serves as the leader of our DRE Program and is a key instructor for the State. Sgt. Walker’s volunteerism and availability to serve are second to none. His broad base of knowledge and leadership is inspirational and have brought great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Emergency Services Dispatcher Robert H. Tripp has distinguished himself by Meritorious Service as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Dispatcher Tripp has worked very closely with Director of Emergency Communications Steven Sharpe in maintaining and updating Fire/EMS run cards in the CAD system since its inception. In addition, Dispatcher Tripp has consistently been the “go to” guy on C-line for research or questions regarding the CAD system. Dispatcher Tripp continually seeks out education opportunities related to emergency services in order to enhance his knowledge as an emergency services dispatcher. Emergency Services Dispatcher Robert H. Tripp brings great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Senior Financial Clerk/Typist Margaret Sheelar has distinguished herself by Meritorious Service as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Margaret’s dedication in the performance of her duties as Senior Financial Clerk/Typist has been a critical component to the operations of this Office. Margaret Sheelar consistently brings great credit upon herself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputy Edward E. Vlack has distinguished himself by Meritorious Service as a member of the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. During 2012, Deputy Vlack has voluntarily taken on several additional responsibilities to maintain the efficient operation of the Records and Civil Office. Additionally, Deputy Vlack avails himself as an instructor and a Civil Accreditation Assessor for the New York State Sheriffs’ Association and Sheriff’s Offices across New York State. Deputy Edward E. Vlack brings great credit upon himself and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office.

Photo: Bell ringers at Tops for Salvation Army 'Red Kettle' campaign

By Howard B. Owens

If you've been to Tops in the past couple of weeks you've seen members of your community there ringing little red bells as part of the Salvation Army's annual Red Kettle Campaign.

Today, members of the Kiwanis Club of Batavia volunteered in shifts to ring bells and maybe even sing Christmas carols, as Allison Chua and Ross Chua are doing above.

The Salvation Army always needs volunteers to help support the campaign. To volunteer, contact Patricia Kurtz, at 343-6284 or e-mail at patricia.kurtz@use.salvationarmy.org.

Photo: Christmastime customer appreciation lunch at Empire Tractor

By Howard B. Owens

Empire Tractor hosted a Christmastime customer appreciation day at its location on East Main Street Road today, serving chips, sodas and beef on weck.

The Batavia-based farm equipment company was recently named one of the top dealers in the nation by Dixie Chopper for its exceptional sales and service of the riding mower line.

State sends out notice that Jacquetta Simmons released from prison pending appeal

By Howard B. Owens

New York's VINE service has sent out a notification that Jacquetta Simmons, inmate ID 12G0988, was released from prison today.

Simmons was released under a court order signed by Associate Justice Rose Sconiers, Appellent Division, 4th Department. Sconiers ordered the release, on $50,000 bond, pending an appeal by Simmons that the five-year prison sentenced handed down by Judge Robert C. Noonan is overly harsh.

Representatives of Simmons posted the bond for Simmons yesterday and Noonan signed the release order.

Under the terms of Sconiers' order, attorneys for Simmons have until May 31 to "perfect" the appeal -- meaning produce a brief on all the points of law relative to the items under appeal, which includes both the term of her sentence and whether Simmons received a fair trial.

A three-judge panel of the NYS Supreme Court will conduct a hearing on the points of appeal and render a decision at a later date. What happens next for Simmons will depend on the outcome of the appeal.

Simmons was convicted by a jury following a weeklong trial Aug. 24 of second-degree assault under a section of the law that covers an assault by a much younger person hitting and injuring a person 65 or older.

At the time of the Christmas Eve confrontation last year between Simmons and Grace Suozzi, a Walmart cashier, Simmons was 27 and Suozzi was 70.

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