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CTE students inducted into the National Technical Honor Society

By Billie Owens

Top photo: Macayla Burke (right) receives the first-place Holowach Scholarship from Jon Sanfratello, executive principal, GV BOCES Batavia Campus. Macayla is a Health Careers Academy student from Batavia City School District.

Submitted photo and press release:

The Batavia Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center is proud to announce the achievements of its seniors. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this awards ceremony event that was scheduled to be held in June was canceled.

The 25 Genesee County award winners, their programs, home schools and scholarships received, are noted below.

  • Chase Bordonaro -- Building Trades, Le Roy CSD, Home Depot Award
  • Juliana Branche -- Culinary Arts, Batavia CSD, Culinary Arts Club Award
  • Jesse Bray -- Metal Trades, Batavia CSD, Dan Bender Award
  • Alexander Brumsted -- Building Trades, Byron-Bergen CSD, Home Owner Award
  • Macayla Burke -- Health Careers Academy, Batavia CSD, Holowach Memorial Scholarship – first place
  • Casey Felski -- Building Trades, Pembroke CSD, Building Trades Alumni Award
  • Wyatt Gaus -- Culinary Arts, Batavia CSD, Batavia Rotary, Chef Russell Bugbee Memorial Award, Culinary Arts Club Award, Holowach Memorial Scholarship (Alternate), Josh Mouery Memorial Award
  • Madison Heaney -- Health Dimensions, Le Roy CSD, UMMC Clinical Excellence Award, UMMC League Award
  • Paige Haile -- Health Careers Academy, Batavia CSD, AM Highest Academic Average, Holowach Memorial Scholarship – second place
  • Nicole Hume -- Metal Trades, Alexander CSD, Dan Bender Award
  • Jacob Humes -- Health Careers Academy, Batavia CSD, AM Clinical Excellence Award
  • Noah Kutter -- Culinary Arts, Pembroke CSD, Extra Mile Award
  • Benjamin LaBombard -- Metal Trades, Le Roy CSD, Gene Haas Foundation Award
  • Kyler LaCarte -- Building Trades, Le Roy CSD, Home Depot Award
  • Benjamin Lemley -- Building Trades, Notre Dame HS, Roy H. Turnbull Memorial Award
  • Dylan Pehrson -- Building Trades, Batavia CSD, Paul Levins Memorial Award
  • Paola Perez -- Justice Academy, Oakfield-Alabama CSD, Outstanding Achievement Award
  • Emma Sallome -- Cosmetology, Batavia CSD, Cosmetology Teacher Award
  • Wyatt Sando -- Metal Trades, Byron-Bergen CSD, Don Abramo Jr. Memorial Award
  • Dan Santullo -- Health Careers Academy, Alexander CSD, PM Highest Academic Average
  • Gavin Schmidt -- Collision Custom & Restoration, Batavia CSD, Select Collision Top Gun Award
  • Lauren Schmieder -- Health Careers Academy, Alexander CSD, PM Clinical Excellence Award
  • Tyler Stevens -- Collision Custom & Restoration, Elba CSD, Car Quest Auto Body Skills Award
  • Charlotte Wright -- Animal Science, Le Roy CSD, FFA Service Scholarship
  • Braeden Zimmerman -- Collision Custom & Restoration, Byron-Bergen CSD, Car Quest Auto Body Skills Award

Total of 69 local students named to Spring 2020 President's List at GCC

By Billie Owens

Genesee Community College named 63 Genesee County students to the President's List for the Spring 2020 semester. Students honored on the President's List have maintained full-time enrollment and earned a quality point index of 3.75 (roughly equivalent to an A) or better.

In total, there were 253 students named to the President's List from all seven campus locations in Batavia, Albion, Arcade, Dansville, Lima, Medina and Warsaw.

Online, Genesee Community College's Spring 2020 President's List (PDF) honorees are listed alphabetically by their hometowns.

The College also maintains a Provost's List to recognize part-time students with a quality point index of 3.75 or better and a dean's list comprised of students who earn a quality point index of 3.50 to 3.74. These other GCC honorees are announced separately; see the College's website

Below are the 69 Genesee County students named to the President's List for the Spring 2020 semester:

Macie Riggs of Alexander 

Jessica Scharlau of Alexander 

Naomi LaDuke of Alexander

Jessica Lennon of Alexander 

Jordin Cecere of Alexander

Logan Kellogg of Basom 

Donovan Nephew of Basom

Megan Gilman of Basom 

Stephanie Gilman of Basom 

Megan Jacques of Batavia 

Jocelyn Castaneda of Batavia 

Monique McKenrick of Batavia 

Kate Wasik of Batavia 

Stacey Johnston of Batavia

Kristen Gloskowski of Batavia 

Samuel Rigerman of Batavia 

Gregory Metz of Batavia

Heather Demmer of Batavia 

Steven Geyer of Batavia

Abigail Swinehart of Batavia 

Meredith Cutro of Batavia 

Bethany Ruffino of Batavia 

Brandi-Lyn Heidenreich of Batavia 

Nichole Ambrosoli of Batavia 

Macy Midla of Batavia

Janelle DiMartino of Batavia 

Trevor Zewan of Batavia 

Mackenzie Pedersen of Batavia

Shane Cockle of Batavia 

Jennifer Bartz of Batavia 

Brittaney Lang of Batavia

Margaret Richardson of Batavia

Tara Clattenburg of Batavia 

Cortney Dawson of Batavia

Alexis Balduf of Batavia 

Tylin Torcello of Batavia 

Anne Koestler of Batavia 

Jessica Accardi of Batavia 

Bailey Faucett of Batavia 

Ryan Weaver of Batavia

Bailey Gavenda of Batavia

Danielle Joyce of Bergen

Marlaina Fee of Bergen

John Gabalski of Byron

MacKenzie Rosse of Byron

Julia Starczewski of Corfu 

Mackenzie Jurek of Corfu

Nicholas Brown of Corfu 

Carley Staebell of Corfu

Olivia Kohorst of Corfu 

Katharine Smallwood of Corfu 

Ryan Curtis of Corfu 

Dustin Wheeler of Darien Center 

Joshua Kramer of Darien Center 

Haley Alvord of Darien Center 

Caroline Pelton of East Bethany 

Jessica Padilla of Elba

Emily Reynolds of Elba 

Nicole Roth of Le Roy 

Hanna Erion of Le Roy 

Marshall Schultz of Le Roy 

Brenda Turner of Le Roy 

Morgan Ferrara of Le Roy

Kristin Griffin of Le Roy

Emma-Kate Uberty of Le Roy 

Samantha Reinhardt of Oakfield

Annette Velletta of Oakfield

Jazmyn Dobson of Oakfield 

Josilynn Russo of Pavilion

Genesee Community College serves more than 5,000 students with more than 65 academic programs and certificates. Among the many options are the Marketing and Social Media concentration within the Business Administration program, Computer Repair, and the newest Micro-Credential offerings in Human Resource Management, NYS Coaching and Professional Sales. GCC also offers a variety of Fine Arts, Theatre Arts and six different healthcare programs including the new Health Studies, A.S. 

Each GCC student is assigned a success coach at the College's Student Success Center. The coach provides academic and career guidance from the first steps of the admissions process through to graduation or transferring credits to other institutions. The College's robust athletic program is housed in the state-of-the-art Richard C. Call Arena featuring a fieldhouse, fitness center, Human Performance Lab, press box, as well as coaches' offices and classrooms. 

GCC operates seven campus locations throughout Western New York, a significant online program and student housing is available at College Village, just a three-minute walk from the Batavia Campus. With small class sizes and innovative technology inside and out of the classroom, SUNY GCC is known for its quality education at an affordable price.

Two GC students receive scholarships from Attica Lions Club

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Attica Lions Club, located in Darien Center, has announced the recipients of their club scholarship for the 2019-2020 school year. Two of the eight recipients live in Genesee County.

The purpose of his scholarship is to provide financial assistance to a senior boy or girl from Alexander Central School or Attica Central School who has a genuine desire to further their education and needs financial assistance.

Applicants must be academically qualified to the extent that they meet the entrance requirements of the institution to which they seek admission. Coordinator of this program, Lion Ron Cole, announces the following recipients:

  • Hailee Lowe, of Alexander Central, who will study Physical Education at Roberts Wesleyan;
  • Skylar Rossi, of Alexander Central, who will study Nursing at SUNY Brockport;
  • Cooper Gadd, of Attica Central, who will study Computer Science at Monroe CC;
  • Andrea Halsey, of Attica Central, who will study Nursing at Daemen College
  • Claudia Jo Hardie, of Attica Central, who will study Nursing at Monroe CC;
  • Jacqueline Kibler, of Attica Central, who will study at either Mercyhurst of St. Bonaventure;
  • Dylan Kipfer, of Attica Central, who will study Business at Genesee CC.
  • Simon Rudolph of Attica Central, who will study General Studies at Genesee CC.

Total of 29 GC students made the dean's list at RIT this spring

By Billie Owens

The following local residents made the dean's list at Rochester Institute of Technology for the 2020 Spring Semester.

Degree-seeking undergraduate students are eligible for dean's list if their term GPA is greater than or equal to 3.400; they do not have any grades of "Incomplete", "D" or "F"; and they have registered for, and completed, at least 12 credit hours.

Marissa Dispenza, of Batavia, who is in the Chemical Engineering program.

Nicholas Kelly, of Byron, who is in the Software Engineering program.

Celia Mercovich, of Bergen, who is in the Physics program.

Cody Zajaczkowski, of Le Roy, who is in the Packaging Science program.

Erik Scharlau, of Alexander, who is in the Physician Assistant program.

Andrew Pickard, of Batavia, who is in the Software Engineering program.

Ava Vescovi, of Le Roy, who is in the Business Administration-Marketing program.

Bethany Zwolinski, of Corfu, who is in the Biomedical Sciences program.

Tyler Henry, of Bergen, who is in the Illustration program.

Taylor Schofield, of Pavilion, who is in the Biomedical Engineering program.

Lauren Burke, of Bergen, who is in the Biomedical Sciences program.

Maddi Howard, of Elba, who is in the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.

Jessie Abrams, of Corfu, who is in the Medical Illustration program.

Triton Adamski, of Corfu, who is in the Game Design and Development program.

Jacob Gualtieri, of Le Roy, who is in the Computer Engineering program.

Alex Warren, of Corfu, who is in the Computer Science program.

Grace Vogler, of Corfu, who is in the Business Administration-Management program.

Sarah Nati, of Corfu, who is in the Applied Arts and Sciences program.

Lily Mercovich, of Bergen, who is in the Film and Animation program.

Olivia Fox, of Alexander, who is in the Applied Arts and Sciences program.

Jordan D'Alba, of Oakfield, who is in the Mechanical Engineering program.

Melissa Mountain, of Batavia, who is in the Interior Design program.

Kiera Gross, of East Bethany, who is in the Computational Mathematics program.

Katelyn Hersee, of Batavia, who is in the business administration-accounting program.

Chase Roth, of Alexander, who is in the Mobile App Development program.

Charles Carroll, of Oakfield, who is in the Chemistry program.

Ethan Stone, of Batavia, who is in the Computer Engineering program.

Colin Hunt, of Batavia, who is in the Packaging Science program.

Allen Snyder, of Darien Center, who is in the Mechanical Engineering program.

Rochester Institute of Technology is home to leading creators, entrepreneurs, innovators and researchers. Founded in 1829, RIT enrolls about 19,000 students in more than 200 career-oriented and professional programs, making it among the largest private universities in the U.S.

The university is internationally recognized and ranked for academic leadership in business, computing, engineering, imaging science, liberal arts, sustainability, and fine and applied arts. RIT also offers unparalleled support services for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. The cooperative education program is one of the oldest and largest in the nation. Global partnerships include campuses in China, Croatia, Dubai and Kosovo.

Pembroke Family Medicine joins Oak Orchard Health

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and press release:

Oak Orchard Health is pleased to announce that Pembroke Family Medicine will be joining them on July 1. Their common mission, shared values and dedication to patients make this unification easy to understand.

Both healthcare organizations provide services to everyone regardless of medical insurance status.

All Pembroke locations will remain the same and their patients will retain the same primary care provider. The only change they’ll see are the signs for Oak Orchard Health on the Pembroke locations in Batavia, Alexander, and Corfu.

“Oak Orchard Health aligns perfectly with our current model of practicing high-quality, patient centered care," said Dr. Mary Obear, of Pembroke Family Medicine (inset photo, right).

"Joining Oak Orchard allows us to offer more services to our patients including vision, dental, behavioral health and patient engagement services. We can now truly offer a comprehensive patient experience."

Both organizations were recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) as Patient Centered Medical Homes which focuses on improvements in quality of the patient experience, growing staff satisfaction, and reducing health care costs.

“We’re excited to welcome Pembroke Family Medicine patients and providers into our organization," said Mary Ann Pettibon, CEO, Oak Orchard Health (inset photo, left)

"It’s a natural collaboration since we share so much in common. And we are pleased that their patients will now have access to a full spectrum of care. We look forward to working together."

You’re invited to an outdoor ribbon cutting on Wednesday, July 1 at 9 a.m. at the Pembroke Corfu location. The address is 860 Main Road, Corfu. We will be wearing face masks and practicing social distance.

Oak Orchard Health 

Originally founded in 1966, Oak Orchard has grown from a migrant health project into an integrated health center with multiple locations providing health care services for everyone located in the communities we serve.

Currently serving more than 22,000 patients at six locations, Oak Orchard Health is a recognized patient-centered medical home and 501(c) nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with locations in the towns of Brockport, Albion, Lyndonville, Hornell and Warsaw.

Two injured in UTV accident in Alexander

By Billie Owens

A UTV accident is reported in Alexander. Two people are injured, one with an arm injury, the other with a leg injury. They are at a house in the 11000 block of Bowen Road. Alexander Fire Department and Mercy medics are responding.

Crash with minor injuries reported in Alexander

By Billie Owens

A two-vehicle accident with injuries is reported at 4119 Broadway Road (Route 20) in Alexander. Alexander Fire Department and Mercy medics are responding. The location is between Browns Mill and Molasses Hill roads.

A first responder on scene reports injuries appear to be minor and says medics can continue in non-emergency mode. There is a lot of debris in the roadway and traffic control is needed until it can be removed.

UPDATE 10:02 a.m.: "Looks like we'll have sign-offs, minor glass cuts," says a first responder. Mercy medics are put back in service.

Law and Order: Pair of Batavians arrested in Warsaw on drug charges

By Billie Owens

Kevin J. Jackson Jr., 30, and Briana S. Green, 23, both of Batavia, were arrested June 7 after a traffic stop was conducted on Route 19 in the Town of Warsaw by Wyoming County Sheriff's deputies. Jackson is charged with: driving while ability impaired by drugs; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree -- stimulant (methamphetamine) with intent to sell, two counts; and multiple vehicle and traffic violations. Upon speaking with Jackson, the operator of the vehicle, deputies allege they observed signs of drug impairment. A roadside investigation was conducted, including field sobriety testing. A search of Jackson's vehicle allegedly found a quantity of meth, packaging material and drug paraphernalia. His passenger, Green, was charged with: criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree  -- a stimulant (meth) with intent to sell; criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree; and two counts of criminal use of drug paraphernalia. Jackson was arraigned in Town of Warsaw Court and released on his own recognizance. Green's disposition was not provided. Both are due in Town of Warsaw Court at a later date. The cases were handled by Wyoming County Sheriff's Deputy Bliss, assisted by Deputy Nowak.

James R. Tillery, 47, of Farwell Drive, Batavia, is charged with third-degree criminal tampering. He was arrested at 4:35 p.m. on June 4 for allegedly mowing a profane word (unspecified) into grass on city property on Farwell Drive. He was issued an appearance ticket returnable to Batavia City Court at 1 p.m. on July 21. The case was investigated by Batavia Police Officer Joshua Girvin, assisted by Officer Austin Hedges.

Luis A. Ramos-Mercado, 35, of South Main Street, Batavia, is charged with: first-degree criminal contempt; third-degree assault; criminal obstruction of breathing; and endangering the welfare of a child. Ramos-Mercado was arrested following a domestic incident that occurred at 4:44 a.m. on June 6 outside a residence on Ellicott Avenue. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and put in jail. No bail information provided. He is due back in city court on July 7. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jordan McGinnis, assisted by Officer Sean Wilson.

Shaleesa H. Woods, 29, of South Swan Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. Woods was arrested after an altercation that stemmed from a domestic incident on South Swan Street at 6:04 p.m. June 2. It is alleged that Woods struck a female in the back of the head. She was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on July 14, then released from custody. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Alec Roberts.

Jamie M. Cyr, 38, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with fourth-degree grand larceny and fourth-degree criminal mischief. He was arrested on June 9 following the investigation of a domestic incident that occurred at 8:38 that evening at an apartment on Bank Street. Cyr is accused of stealing a person's cell phone during a domestic incident and damaging a door. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Samuel Freeman, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Erick Ruldolf Horning, 30, of Tracy Avenue, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. Horning was arrested after on ongoing dispute between neighbors that occurred at 6:55 p.m. on June 8 on Tracy Avenue. He was issued a computer-generated computer ticket returnable to Batavia City Court on July 14. The  case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Flanagan, assisted by Officer Adam Tucker.

Thomas J. Wolcott, 36, of Hutchins Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt following an investigation into a domestic incident. It is alleged that Wolcott violated an order of protection at 7:09 p.m. on June 8 on Central Avenue, Batavia. Wolcott was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on July 14. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Samuel Freeman, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Andre Lamar Roberts, 27, of Main Street, Alexander, is charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief. On June 6, Roberts was arrested at the Speedway gas station and convenience store on West Main Street in Batavia following the investigation of a domestic incident that occurred June 2 on West Main Street. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and is due back there on July 16. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Sean Wilson.

Shawna M. Purcel, 42, of Tracy Avenue, Batavia, is charged with second-degree contempt. Purcel was arrested on June 4 for violating an order of protection after she was allegedly found sitting outside her ex-boyfriend's residence. She was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on July 16, then released from custody. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Marc Lawrence, assisted by Officer Austin Hedges.

A dozen GC students at Buffalo State College

By Billie Owens

 Buffalo State College is pleased to recognize the following 12 students from Genesee County who have been named to the Spring 2020 dean's list.

In general, students who have completed at least 12 credit hours and who have attained a GPA of 3.5 or higher qualify for the Buffalo State dean's list. Full criteria and grade-type exceptions can be found in the undergraduate catalog.

Carli Bogue, of Elba

Neve Georgia, of Batavia

Jaclyn Guzdek, of Oakfield

Jenna Huntington, of Elba

Jordyn Johnson, of Batavia

Brendon Kendall, of South Byron

Curtis Kreutter, of East Bethany

Mckenna Moran, of Darien Center

Dylah Pantlin, of Batavia

Tess Rebmann, of Darien Center

Miranda Schiller, of Alexander

Samantha Tatarski, of Corfu

Buffalo State is a State University of New York (SUNY) college located in Buffalo. The college offers 79 undergraduate majors as well as many minors and certificate programs. Every year, thousands of students benefit from Buffalo State's community engagement, hands-on learning opportunities, and affordable SUNY tuition. Buffalo State also offers more than 60 graduate programs.

Five GC students named Presidential Scholars this spring at Clarkson University in Potsdam

By Billie Owens

POTSDAM -- Students have been named Presidential Scholars for the spring 2020 semester at Clarkson University.

Logan Cadieux, of Oakfield, a sophomore majoring in mechanical engineering, was named a Presidential Scholar for the spring 2020 semester at Clarkson University.

Zachary Dusky, of Basom, a senior majoring in mechanical engineering, was named a Presidential Scholar for the spring 2020 semester at Clarkson University.

Colin Graham, of Oakfield, a junior majoring in aeronautical engineering / mechanical engineering, was named a Presidential Scholar for the spring 2020 semester at Clarkson University.

John Igoe, of Oakfield, a junior majoring in aeronautical engineering / mechanical engineering, was named a Presidential Scholar for the spring 2020 semester at Clarkson University.

Ben Slenker, of Alexander, a junior majoring in chemical engineering, was named a Presidential Scholar for the spring 2020 semester at Clarkson University.

Presidential Scholars must achieve a minimum 3.80 grade-point average and carry at least 14 credit hours.

As a private, national research university, Clarkson is a leader in technological education and sustainable economic development through teaching, scholarship, research and innovation. We ignite personal connections across academic fields and industries to create the entrepreneurial mindset, knowledge and intellectual curiosity needed to innovate world-relevant solutions and cultivate the leaders of tomorrow.

With its main campus located in Potsdam and additional graduate program and research facilities in the New York Capital Region, Beacon, N.Y., and New York City, Clarkson educates 4,300 students across 95 rigorous programs of study in engineering, business, the arts, education, sciences and health professions. Our alumni earn salaries that are among the top 2.5 percent in the nation and realize accelerated career growth. One in five already leads as a CEO, senior executive or owner of a company.

 

Hickox Road to close this afternoon for two days for emergency repair of embankment

By Billie Owens

From Timothy J. Hens, superintendent, Genesee County Highway Department

Genesee County will be closing Hickox Road in the Town of Alexander from 4 p.m. this afternoon (June 4th) through 5 p.m. Saturday afternoon June 6th.

This will allow for the emergency repair of a landslide along the eastern embankment of the road approximately a quarter mile south of the Hamlet of Ray.

The road will be closed to thru traffic in the area of the repair during this time and will be open to local traffic only from Dodgeson Road to Walker Road.

CTE students inducted into the National Technical Honor Society

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Batavia Career and Technical Education Center National Technical Honor Society (NTHS) Chapter announced the names of 33 career and technical student inductees this month. 

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this induction ceremony event was canceled.

These students met the rigorous criteria set forth by this national organization. The minimum grade-point average for acceptance is a 3.0. Students are also selected based upon credit hours completed, attendance, volunteer service, and membership in other student organizations.

2020 Batavia Career and Technical Education Center NTHS Inductees

Animal Science

  • Kasey Smith, Alexander

Building Trades

  • Quinten Betances, Batavia
  • Garrett Totten, Pembroke
  • Timothy Walsh, Batavia
  • Justin Wight, Oakfield-Alabama

Criminal Justice

  • Adriana Cauthen, Pembroke
  • Will Minkel, Attica
  • Scout Seelau, Pembroke
  • Jordan Waterbury, Akron

Cosmetology

  • Delaney Ingles, Le Roy
  • Madison Masters, Le Roy
  • Rylie Merle, Alexander
  • Lilia Toland, Attica

Culinary Arts

  • Isaiah Merrell, Batavia Academy

Diesel Mechanics

  • Joshua Conrad, Attica
  • Dillon Weber, Alexander

Electro Mechanical Trades

  • Matthew Bills, Batavia
  • Devin Dean, Alexander
  • Adam Dulski, Pembroke
  • Troy Helsdon, Batavia
  • Henry Schafer, Notre Dame
  • Zachary Strzelec, Attica

Graphic Arts

  • Blake Paserk, Batavia

Health Dimensions

  • Keri Biggins, Le Roy
  • Krysta Hansen, Alexander
  • Skye Magoffin, Pembroke

Metal Trades

  • Jesse Bray, Batavia
  • Daniel Gerstiz, Attica
  • Nicole Hume, Alexander
  • Chase Pangrazio, Batavia

Programming and Interactive Media

  • Riley Atwood, Batavia
  • Dominic D’Agostino, Oakfield-Alabama
  • Quintin Konieczny, Batavia

Caller reported child left unattended in black minivan in Alexander driveway

By Billie Owens

About 10 minutes ago, a caller to dispatch reported a small child was left unattended inside a black minivan in a driveway in the 10,000 block of Main Street in Alexander.

The caller was concerned about the child's welfare because of the heat. It is the 90-degree range today. A deputy responded but the vehicle was apparently gone by then because she reported that she had no contact with it.

When temperatures outside range from 80 degrees to 100 degrees, the temperature inside a car parked in direct sunlight can quickly climb to between 130 to 172, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The temperature inside a closed car rises most quickly during the first 15 minutes that it is left in the sun, according to the CDC.

Law and Order: Sparks Road man accused of unlicensed driving while under influence of drugs

By Billie Owens

Joshua Lee Baltz, 44, of Sparks Road, Pavilion, is charged with: aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the first degree, a felony; driving while under the influence of drugs; and speeding -- going 76 in a 55-mph zone. Baltz was stopped for speeding on Alexander Road in Alexander at 11:51 p.m. on May 23 and allegedly found to be impaired by drugs. He was issued appearance tickets for Town of Alexander Court on July 21. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Sgt. Thomas Sanfratello, assisted by Deputy Ryan Young.

Warren David Post, 52, of Genesee Street, Corfu, is charged with: driving while intoxicated; DWI -- operating while having a BAC of .08 percent or higher; aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree; and failure to keep right. On May 24, Post was arrested at 4:44 p.m. on Pearl Street Road in Batavia following a traffic stop. He was released on traffic tickets returnable to Batavia Town Court on July 16. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Mathew Clor, assisted by Deputy David Moore.

Brianna S. Green, 23, of Batavia (no address provided), was arrested and charged with petit larceny following a shoplifting complaint at Walmart in the Town of Warsaw (Wyoming County). On March 29, it is alleged that she stole $65.82 in merchandise. Green was arrested on May 23 on the charge. She is due in Town of Warsaw Court on July 13. The case was handled by Wyoming County Sheriff's Sgt. Colin Reagan.

Car vs. tractor-trailer crash in Alexander, Route 98 completely blocked

By Billie Owens

A tractor-trailer and car collided at 10660 Main St., Alexander. The vehicle rolled over; a female passenger is crawling out of the vehicle, according to a first responder on scene. Mercy Flight is on ground standby in Batavia. Route 98 traffic is "totally blocked."

Alexander and Mercy medics are responding. Attica Fire Police are called to shut down Route 98 at Stroh Road. Also, Route 98 is being shut down at "Four Corners." A hook tow truck is called for a full-size semi on its side.

UPDATE 1:31 p.m.: A first responder says "It looks like we'll have all sign-offs, but they need to be evaluated."

UPDATE 1:34 p.m.: Mercy Flight will not be needed and is put back in service. 

UPDATED: Mark Your Calendar: 'Cruising for Mercy Flight' escorted by Sheriff's deputies is June 7

By Billie Owens

Route information from Bill and Jeanne Freeman​:

Cruising for Mercy Flight is a car-cruise fundraiser that will be held on Sunday, June 7, escorted by Genesee County Sheriff's deputies.

Participants -- including classic automobile enthusiasts, hot rodders, vintage car owners, and people with way cool rides -- will assemble at the Genesee County Fairgrounds at 5056 E. Main St. Road (Route 5) in Batavia, and the procession will leave at approximately 1 p.m.

And this cavalcade surely must include thankful everyday operators who carry a valid license to drive in New York, have a vehicle that has adequate gasoline in the tank, is inspected, insured and runs.

They can all rally around Mercy Flight, a really good reason to enjoy some fresh air with people for a change, whether the weather cooperates or not weather weather permitting.

The Route

  • From fairgrounds, turn left onto Route 5 westbound (about 1 p.m.);
  • In Batavia, turn right on Route 98 north to Elba (1:15 p.m.)
  • In Elba, turn right onto Route 262 going through Byron and into Bergen (1:35 p.m.);
  • In Bergen, turn right onto Route 19 southbound through Le Roy (1:45 p.m.);
  • Keep on Route 19 south to Pavilion (1:52 p.m.);
  • Turn right on Route 63 westbound in Pavilion to go to junction of routes 63 & 20 (1:55 p.m.);
  • Turn left onto Route 20 at Texaco Town (2 p.m.);
  • Take Route 20 through Bethany and Alexander, to Route 77 westbound to Darien Center (2:15 p.m.);
  • Take Route 77 northbound from Darien Center to Alabama (2:35 p.m.);
  • Turn right on to Route 63 in Alabama and go to Oakfield (2:45 p.m.);
  • Approximately 1 mile down the road, turn left onto Route 262 to Elba;
  • In Elba turn right on to Route 98. This will take you back to Route 5 and also to the Batavia Exit on the Thruway.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT FOR MERCY FLIGHT!

We would like to thank the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, especially Undersheriff Brad Mazur, the Genesee County Agricultural Society, and the Batavia and Le Roy police departments!

We certainly appreciate your support in being a part of this cruise. Be careful on your way home.

We sure hope to see everyone next month.

Stay Healthy and Be Safe,

Bill and Jeanne Freeman

UPDATE 12:28 p.m. May 21: A Mercy Flight Helicopter on a truck and trailer will be in the convoy, being held "in memory of all the former cruisers that have passed before us." A goodwill collection for Mercy Flight will be taken at the start of the event.

Here are the rules:

  1. If you get out of your car you have to wear a mask.
  2. If you do get out of your car be sure to practice social distancing.
  3. If you bring a snack and a beverage with you, please take home any trash. 
  4. CARRY IN AND CARRY OUT PLEASE!

Questions, call Jeanne Freeman at (585) 548-7197 before June 7.

VIDEO: Alexander Class of 2020 receive gift baskets from the community

By Howard B. Owens
Video Sponsor
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With all of the traditional ways seniors celebrate and commemorate their final year of high school canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic, a group of parents in and community members in Alexander came together to provide gift baskets to the Class of 2020.

'Out of abundance of caution' Alexander Fire Department cancels July 2020 Truck and Tractor Pull

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Out of an abundance of caution and uncertainty of local and state restrictions/conditions in the month of July, the Alexander Fire Department Truck and Tractor Pull, originally scheduled for July 10th and 11th has been cancelled.

It is not the decision that we wanted to make but it was the necessary one for this year. The fans, pullers, sponsors, and vendors deserve the very best from us and given the conditions that we have been placed in with the COVID-19 pandemic it is not feasible at this time. 

We thoroughly love bringing all the people to Alexander Fireman’s Grounds for our event and do not want to compromise anyone. Protecting and serving our community is our first priority and we take our responsibility seriously. 

The Alexander Truck and Tractor Pull is one of our major fundraisers which helps Alexander Fire Department to function and we take great pride in making the Pull a great event each year. We cannot do this without the volunteer help, support of the community and local businesses. We cannot afford to take this risk and endanger the physical and financial condition of our group. 

We appreciate the support of our fans, pullers, vendors, sponsors, volunteers, friends, family, and Empire State Pullers. We look forward to returning July 9th and 10th, 2021 and invite you to join us then for some of the best truck and tractor pulling. Mark your calendars!

Thank you,

Alexander Fire Department

Two GC students earn recognition for 'remarkable contributions' at Cazenovia College

By Billie Owens

CAZENOVIA -- Cazenovia College's Annual Leaders Celebration recognized the remarkable contributions students, staff, and faculty made to enrich the Cazenovia College experience. Those honored play various roles and contribute in different ways to creating a positive campus-life environment.

Two honorees are from Genesee County: Maria Fontaine, of Darien Center, and Haley Boren, of Alexander.

Maria Fontaine received:

  • Leader Scholars Award -- The Leader Scholars Award recognizes students who serve in many roles, including Team Captains, Master Students, Resident Advisors, Peer Mentors, and Club Presidents. While serving, they have all also managed to achieve a minimum grade-point average of 3.70, demonstrating outstanding abilities to manage time, maintain priorities, and dedicate themselves in and outside the classroom.
  • Cazenovia Excellence in Leadership Award -- Students achieving excellence for 2019-2020 take on leadership and support roles with chapter functions in addition to serving as participants and role models for reflective, training, and service activities.
  • Shining Star Award -- The Shining Star Award is given to students who play different roles and their contributions are varied, but they all are critical to creating a spark in our campus life experience. These are the student whose presence, energy, and planning skills create bright and exciting places and spaces on the Caz College campus.

Haley Boren received:

  • Cazenovia Excellence in Leadership Award -- Students achieving excellence for 2019-2020 take on leadership and support roles with chapter functions in addition to serving as participants and role models for reflective, training, and service activities.

About Cazenovia College

It is an independent, co-educational college near Syracuse, offering graduate and bachelor degree programs in the liberal arts and professional studies in an exceptional community environment, with academic and cocurricular programs devoted to developing leaders in their fields. Cazenovia has been named a "Best College" by U.S. News & World Report for 16 consecutive years and has also been recognized by Money and Washington Monthly as a best value institution. For more information, visit www.cazenovia.edu.

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