Bergen

A Bergen-based project already given the go-ahead by Genesee County Economic Development Center and pending additional financial incentives got the good news this week that a state grant will be coming its way.

Empire State Development announced Tuesday that of the nearly $25 million in awards for the Focused Attraction of Shovel-Ready Tracts New York grant program, $1.26 million has been slated for the village of Bergen. GE Bergen Owner LLC has a $43.6 million project in the works at Apple Tree Acres Corporate Park.

This project will support electrical infrastructure upgrades, including improvements to the electrical substation and distribution lines, which will increase capacity to serve anticipated load growth, according to the news release. These upgrades will allow Apple Tree Acres Corporate Park to further develop an additional 47 shovel ready acres intended for future manufacturing.

In June, the GCEDC granted GE Bergen Owner LLC’s proposed 196,000-square-foot facility in the town of Bergen, including approximately $1.75 million in sales tax exemptions, a property tax abatement of about $2.15 million as a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) and a mortgage tax exemption of $366,000.

The facility would be leased to an end user and is to create 60 new full-time jobs and generate $38 million in wages and benefits as well as revenues for local governments over the course of 10 years according to the deal. 

The project was pending, subject to receiving incentives from Empire State Development Corp.

The state shovel-ready program, first announced in February 2022, is designed to prepare and develop sites across the state to further New York’s shovel-readiness and increase its attractiveness to large employers and high-tech manufacturing companies.

This program is intended to help diversify New York State’s economy while generating new investments for businesses, communities and job creation. To date, FAST NY has awarded $200 million to 25 sites, with locations in every region across Upstate New York.

Bergen was the only municipality in Genesee County to receive a grant award in this round.

 "Through the FAST NY program, our strategic investments are helping communities across Upstate New York develop shovel-ready sites to attract new and expanding businesses in key industries,” ESD President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said in the news release. “These awards will support the development of five sites across Upstate New York, with the potential to attract businesses and manufacturers looking to establish or grow a footprint here, creating jobs and generating regional economic growth."

This year, Governor Kathy Hochul secured an additional $100 million in funding for the FAST NY program through the FY25 state budget. 

FAST NY grants are awarded for pre-development activities and infrastructure investments to develop sites that will attract many eligible industries —including high-tech manufacturing, semiconductors, clean-tech renewable energy, life sciences, agribusiness, optics, transportation equipment, materials processing, industrial machinery manufacturing and other advanced manufacturing. These sites can also be used for interstate distribution and logistics.

For more information, or to apply for a FAST NY grant, visit esd.ny.gov/fast-ny.

Matthew R. Taylor, 41, of Batavia, is charged with assault 1st, robbery 1st, and menacing 3rd. Taylor is accused of engaging in violence with another person on East Main Street on Sept. 22. He is accused of demanding money and causing serious injury to the other person. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed.

Jeffrey A. Tyler, no age provided, of Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a firearm, criminal possession of a weapon 3rd, criminal possession of stolen property, and multiple traffic offenses. Tyler was stopped at 12:17 p.m. on Sept. 6 by Officer T.J. Mummery of Le Roy PD. During an investigation, Mummery determined Tyler was a convicted felon and was allegedly in possession of an unregistered handgun, which was also loaded. Tyler was reportedly towing a trailer that contained a stolen ATV. Tyler was held pending arraignment.

Sugeiry Vazquez, 35, of Otis Street, Rochester, is charged with unlawful fleeing from a police officer in a motor vehicle 3rd, reckless endangerment 1st, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, unlicensed drive, and speeding. Deputy Alexander Hadsall initiated a pursuit of a vehicle on Route 20 in Darien at 10:40 a.m. on Sept. 24 after learning that a vehicle had fled a T.J. Maxx in Erie County after the theft of clothing items. Hadsall attempted to stop the vehicle but the vehicle did not yield to emergency lights. The pursuit continued into the town of Byron, where it crashed into the front lawn of a residence. The occupants fled on foot and were later located in a cornfield by the Sheriff's Office K-9. The driver of the vehicle was arrested. Vazquez was arraigned and released under supervision.

Christina L. Riley, 36, of Batavia, is charged with attempted robbery 3rd, grand larceny 4th, endangering the welfare of a child, and harassment 2nd. Riley is accused of fighting with another person on Sept. 21 at an unreleased location and of attempting to steal that person's child while several children were present. Raily was arraigned and released.

Jennifer A. Schellerer, 38, of Batavia, and Dennis J. Williamson, 42, of Rome, are charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance. Schellerer and Williamson were arrested on Sept. 20 after police received a report of two people passed out in a car at the Mobile gas station on East Main Street, Batavia. They were allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine. Williamson was also charged with criminal possession of stolen property 5th for allegedly possessing a stolen license plate. They were issued appearance tickets.

Michael J. Holler, 38, of Rochester, was arrested on a warrant on Sept. 22. Holler was initially arrested on a charge of petit larceny on Sept. 18. He allegedly failed to appear in court as ordered. He was arraigned and released. 

Gracien R. Ibambasi, 30, of Batavia, is charged with menacing 3rd and endangering the welfare of a child. Ibambasi is accused of threatening another person in the presence of two children. He was arrested on Sept. 22, arraigned in City Court and released.

Phillip P. Heale, 41, of Batavia, and Jessica D. Delcour, 41, of Batavia, are charged with petit larceny. Heale and Delcour are accused of shoplifting at Aldi in Batavia on Sept. 14. Based on an investigation, they were charged with a second count of petit larceny. They are accused of shoplifting on Aug. 8 at the same store. They were issued an appearance ticket.

Patrick O. Spikes, 43, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Spikes is accused of hitting another person during an argument on Central Avenue on Sept. 17. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Jennifer L. Stack, 38, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. She was arrested on an arrest warrant on Sept. 13. She was allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine during a traffic stop on Jan. 18. She was arraigned and released.

Cylie Rose Gebo, 27, of Macedon Center Road, Palmyra, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th.  Gebo was allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine and a pipe by Deputy Robert Henning at 8:25 a.m. on Sept. 26 on West Bergen Road, Bergen. She was issued an appearance ticket.

David Allen Leach, 30, of Main Road, Pembroke, is charged with assault 3rd. Leach is accused of attacking two people during an argument at 10:19 p.m. on Sept. 25, at a location on Main Road, Pembroke. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and held pending arraignment.

Joseph Allen Hogan, 56, of Prairie Trail, West Henrietta, is charged with petit larceny. Hogan was arrested on Sept. 25, accused of stealing $494 from another person at Batavia Downs at 1:04 a.m. on Sept. 17. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Zachary James Pernick, 26, of Paradise Lane, Tonawanda, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Pernick is accused of damaging a wall inside Batavia Downs at 2:31 a.m. on Sept. 28. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Shaunda Lee Hill, 35, of South Street Road, Le Roy, is charged with petit larceny. Hill is accused of shoplifting at Walmart at 4:41 on Sept. 27. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Devin Ralph Zortman, 25, of Highland Avenue, McKees Rocks, Pa., is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or more, failure to signal, and drinking alcohol or consuming cannabis in a motor vehicle. Zortman was stopped at 12:29 on Sept. 29 on Veterans Memorial Drive, Batavia, by Deputy Mason Schultz. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Christopher James Johnston, 48, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th.  The details of the alleged incident where not released other than it was reported 12:54 p.m. on Oct. 1. Johnston was held pending arraignment.

Press Release:

The Genesee County Board of Elections is offering residents a local registration opportunity to ensure they are prepared for the upcoming election. On Saturday, October 5, from 2 - 9 p.m., the Board of Elections office in County Building 1 at 15 Main St., Batavia, will be open for residents to register to vote or apply for an absentee ballot.

This extended weekend schedule provides a convenient time for residents to take care of their election-related needs. Please note that only the West Entrance of County Building 1 will be accessible. This entrance is off the central courtyard between County Building One and the Old Courthouse. Look for the “1999” next to the door.

In addition, the Board of Elections would like to inform voters in the Town of Bergen of a change to their polling location. On Election Day, November 5, voters who previously voted at Bergen Town Hall will now cast their ballots at the Gillam Grant Community Center, located at 6966 W. Bergen Rd., Bergen, directly across from the school.

For more information or questions about registration, absentee ballots, or polling locations, please contact the Genesee County Board of Elections at (585) 815-7804.

Press Release:

On Thursday, September 19, Byron-Bergen Elementary School kicked off the second year of its New York State School Board Association (NYSSBA) Champions of Change award-winning compost program. A partnership with Impact Earth, the composting program began in January of 2024 and by the end of the school year had redirected 6,786 pounds of food waste from the landfill to become nutrient-rich soil.

“The students did a great job with this program last year,” said Elementary School Principal Kristin Loftus. “We just completed a refresher presentation with Doug Carney (Education Manager at Impact Earth) to remind our returning students and introduce our new students to what food items we compost and why so that we can start the new year successfully.”

According to Carney, the compost program at Byron-Bergen Elementary School was the most successful elementary school launch he had ever been part of. 

He commented, “On our end, we got almost no contamination, the bins were full every day, it all just worked. The student-led initiative went a long way to the program’s success and it’s a testament to the leadership at Byron-Bergen. I’m excited for the future of this program.” 

Loftus added, “We were also really excited to receive this special award from NYSSBA and we are going to display it proudly in our cafeteria.”

The Compost Crew was awarded the NYSSBA Champions of Change Recognition earlier in 2024. The award highlights programs which bring positive, meaningful change to the students, communities and districts across New York State.

Press Release:

As the Byron-Bergen Central School year began, students returned to see several major renovations to the buildings and grounds. The upgrades were highlighted in a web video presentation from Superintendent Pat McGee at the end of August. What was not highlighted were the familiar faces behind the renovations and their continuing legacy for the Byron-Bergen Bees.

Several of the Capital Improvement Projects were carried out by Kircher Construction, owned and operated by Byron-Bergen Class of 2006 alum Jon Flannery. Along with his foreman, Class of 2020’s Alex Brumsted, Flannery’s team transformed the Sr. High School gymnasium into a state-of-the-art athletic facility. Very little of the previous gymnasium remains except for the center court floorboards, which were preserved and mounted proudly on the wall.

“This project was very important to us, so we spent a lot of time and attention on it,” said Flannery. 

The preexisting center court is meaningful to both Flannery and Brumsted who were varsity basketball players in high school. 

“I have been volunteering with the program since I graduated, so to be able to save that piece of history for Coach Rox (Noeth) and everyone in the basketball community is pretty cool,” said Brumsted.

Flannery and his wife are elementary basketball coaches for third through fifth-grade students. They hope that their own children will someday play in the renovated gym and see the center court their dad played on almost two decades ago.

“Our project manager Chris Haywood is also an alum, class of 2005, and his kids will get to use this gym,” said Flannery. “Throughout the course of construction, we had a dozen Byron-Bergen graduates working on site. It’s cool to have this crew at their alma mater. They really care about it.”

While the Capital Project provided major upgrades to both schools, the bus garage, and the athletic fields, Byron-Bergen alumni were also taking part in routine maintenance projects throughout the district. In August, four recent alumni helped reseal and repaint the Elementary School staff parking lot and bus loop. Class of 2022 alumni Chiara Grippo and Lexi Vurraro, Class of 2023 alum Grayson Erion, and Class of 2024 graduate Travis Shallenberger took on summer jobs or internships with Grippo Asphalt Maintenance. 

“We do this work at a bunch of schools, so it’s a little weird but special to work on the school that I used to attend,” said Shallenberger. “Whatever we do here is a benefit to the community because we’re maintaining the facilities for the younger generation. It’s like giving back to the community.”

In August, the Elementary School also received fresh concrete walkways to the main entrance poured by Pro Construction, family-owned and operated by Byron-Bergen alumni Curtis, Travis, and Hunter Taylor.

“We take pride in hiring local contractors when we can,” said Director of Facilities Roger Caldwell. “We see a lot of B-B alum come through and it’s great. They have a vested interest in the District and their dedication shows.”

“I think it gives people in the community peace of mind knowing that Byron-Bergen graduates are working on these projects,” said Brumsted. “They know us. They trust us with the school’s legacy.”

Outside of the gymnasium, the walls of the Jr./Sr. High School gleam with new subway tile. After a heroic summer push, the construction crew is bringing projects to completion. 

“This community really is unique in a lot of ways,” said McGee. “It’s great to see the capital improvements go from plans to reality, but it really is amazing to see the folks who have walked these halls as students return to preserve it and improve it for the next generation.”

Christine R. Brien, 53, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, and Johnathan B. White, 32, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, are charged with false written statement.  AT 4:11 p.m. on Aug. 23, Deputy Alexander Hadsall was dispatched to a report of a disturbance where a male had a firearm. When Hadsall arrived on scene, he was advised the male had left the scene on foot in an unknown direction. The male returned and was placed into custody. After further investigation, Hadsall determined both subjects had signed sworn statements that were not true. They were both arrested and processed at the Genesee County and released. 

Chupco Harjo, 33, Council Hosue Road, Tonawanda Indian Reservation, is charged with assault 2nd and criminal mischief 3rd, and Rhonda Nancy Harjo, 68,  of Council Hosue Road, Tonawanda Indian Reservation, is charged with assault 3rd and criminal mischief 3rd. The suspects are accused of assaulting another person at 5:50 a.m. on Aug. 22 at a location on Council House Road, causing physical injury and of damaging the victim's mobile phone. Both were jailed pending arraignment.

Willie Albert Sabb, Jr., 50, unknown address, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, false personation, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, failure to stop at stop sign, speeding. Sabb was stopped at 4:54 p.m. on Aug. 24 on South Lake Road, Le Roy, by Deputy Nicholas Jennings. Sabb was allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine and drug paraphernalia. He was also wanted on a Family Court warrant. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Ashley Jordan Gallagher, 35, no permanent residence, Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th and tampering with physical evidence. Gallagher was allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine during a traffic stop at 4:54 p.m. on Aug. 24 on South Lake Road, Le Roy, by Deputy Nicholas Jennings. She also allegedly had suspected drug contraband concealed on her person. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Cain Alexander Catino, 53, of Valley View Drive, Batavia, is charged with falsifying business records 1st. Catino is accused of signing a Pawn King bill of sale stating that he was the sole owner of property that was allegedly stolen. He was held pending arraignment.

Summer Rose Prentice, 31, of Drake Street, Oakfield, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Prentice is accused of intentionally damaging the property of another person at a location on Drake Street, Oakfield, at 12:30 a.m. on Aug. 22. There is no release information available.

Jonathan Mathew Toledo, 32, of Victory Avenue, Hamburg, is charged with harassment 2nd. Toledo is accused of fighting at Darien Lake on Aug. 20 at 10:07 p.m.  He was held for arraignment.

Jorden Elizabeth Prescott, 30, of no address listed, Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th and harassment 2nd. Prescott is accused of kicking and punching a victim multiple times during a fight at a location on Oak Orchard Road, Elba, at 11:48 a.m. on Aug. 24. She is also accused of breaking the victim's property. She was held pending arraignment.

Aldrin Josue Solorzano, 23, of Clifton Avenue, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Solorzano is accused of stealing merchandise from Walmart at 9:52 p.m. on Aug. 23. Solorzano was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released. Also charged was Yanela Karen Molina, 23, of Clifton Avenue, Batavia.

Jennifer Jean McCarty, 52, of Macomber Road, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. McCarty is accused of shoplifting at Walmart on Aug. 26 at 4:32 p.m. She was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Brett Nelson Mogoffin, 49, of River Road, Pavilion, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and criminal obstruction of breathing.  Mogoffin was arrested on Aug. 29 in connection with an incident reported at 8:18 p.m. on Aug. 22 at a location on River Road, Pavilion. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Eric Nshimirimana, 28, of Churchlea Place, Rochester, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and speeding. Nshimirimana was topped at 2:41 a.m. on Aug. 30 on Clinton Street Road, Stafford, by Sgt. Mathew Clor. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Kathleen Melissa Pritchard, 45, Main Road, Stafford, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd and harassment 2nd.  Pritchard is accused of breaking a TV by knocking it off its stand and hitting a person multiple times in the face during a disturbance on Main Road, Stafford at 10:55 a.m. on Aug. 29.

Holly Lynn Fearby, 34, of Edwards Street, Batavia, is charged with welfare fraud 3rd and offering a false instrument for filing. Fearby is accused of failing to list sales income enabling her to received $3,505 in SNAP benefits. She was arrested on Sept. 2 and held pending arraignment.

Charles William Piehl, 56, no address given, Cohocton, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, driving on a suspended registration, and driving without insurance. Piehl was stopped at 3:04 a.m. on Aug. 3 on Clinton Street Road, Bergen, by Deputy Soren Calderon.  He was allegedly found in possession of drug paraphernalia with narcotics residue. He was released. Also charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance was Christina Maria Semmel, 21, no address given, Rochester.

Gustavo Segundo Diaz-Carvajal, 29, of Federal Drive, Batavia, is charged with assault 2nd.  Diaz-Carvajal is accused of assaulting another detainee at the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility at 7:35 p.m. on June 23 with the intent to cause serious physical injury. He was arrested on Sept. 4.

Louis Steven Szabo, 24, of Hutchins Street, Batavia, and Brandon Marshall Weig, 36, of Vine Street, Batavia, are charged with petit larceny and conspiracy 6th. Szabo and Weig are accused of working together to shoplift from Walmart at 5:59 p.m. on Sept. 3. They were processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

James Christopher Francis, 45, of Falconer Street, North Tonawanda, is charged with menacing a police officer, criminal possession of a weapon 3rd, menacing 1st, and criminal mischief.  At 2:32 a.m. on Aug. 12, deputies responded to Buffalo Street, Bergen, for a report of a man threatening people with a knife. Deputies were able to disarm the suspect and take him into custody. James was held pending arraignment.

Matthew Aaron Howe, 34, of Country Route 64, Hornell, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, moving from lane unsafely, and inadequate plate lamps. Jpw was stp[[ed at 10:57 p.m. on Aug. 1 on Broadway Road, Bethany, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. Howe was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Tahja Denise Allen, 22, of Schreck Avenue, Buffalo, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .18 or greater.  At about 12:45 a.m. on Aug. 7, the Sheriff's Office received a report of a vehicle on a ditch at the Darien Lake campground. Deputy Zachary Hoy was dispatched to investigate. Allen was identified as the driver. Allen was issued an appearance ticket.

James Edward Brown, 43, of Maltby Road, Oakfield, is charged with sex offender failure to provide a photograph.  Brown is accused of failing to provide his photograph to the NYS Sex Offender Registry while being classified as a Level 2 Sex Offender. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Brandon Roddy Brade, no age provided, no residence provided, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd.  Brade is accused of violating an order of protection at 12:19 a.m. on Aug. 8 at a location on Phelps Road, Pembroke. He was held pending arraignment.

Tonya Roselynn Hadsell, 31, Clair Carrier Road, Friendship, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. At 3:46 p.m. on Aug. 8, Deputy Leah Bezon and Deputy Zachary Hoy were dispatched at the Dollar General on Route 63 in Pavilion to investigate a possible intoxicated driver.  As a result of an investigation, Hadsell was allegedly found in possession of Fentanyl. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Cheryl Ann Maines, 55, of Chadlee Drive, Brockport, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, improper left turn, and unsafe turn. Maines was stopped at 12:40 a.m. on Aug. 10 on Park Road, Batavia, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Kipler was issued an appearance ticket.

Malik Isiah Ayala, 32, of Walnut Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Malik is accused of stealing merchandise from Walmart at 4:10 p.m. on Aug. 13. He was arraigned and released.

Brandi Nichole Arbia, 39, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with grand larceny 4th and offering a false instrument for filing 1st. Arbia is accused of stealing $2,372 in SNAP benefits. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Noah Stuart Smith, 19, of Chipman Place, North Tonawanda, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd. Smith is accused of intentionally damaging a mobile phone while at the Chris Stapleton Concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center at 10:45 on July 12. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Ahmire Dionzlyer Morgan, 19, of Delsan Court, Buffalo, and Raequan Ariz Reed, Sr., 28, of Delsan Court, Buffalo, are charged with grand larceny 4th. Morgan and Reed are accused of stealing merchandise from a retail store on Veterans Memorial Drive. The Sheriff's Office did not release the name of the store.

Chad J. Evans, 34, of Weever Street, Rochester, is charged with felony DWI, felony driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and three counts of aggravated unlicensed operation. Evans was stopped at 2:05 a.m. on Aug. 17 on East Main Street, Batavia, by Deputy Jacob Kipler. Evans was held pending arraignment.

Joseph Michael Flanagan, 39, of Lawrence Road, Hilton, is charged with DWI, failing to yield the right of way on a left turn, and failing to yield the right of way when entering a roadway. Flanagan was stopped at 2:22 a.m. on Aug. 17 on Park Road, Batavia, by Sgt. Mathew Clo. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Brandon Michael Crawford, 22, no address listed, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and speeding. Crawford was stopped at 1:41 a.m. on Aug. 10 on Route 5, Batavia, by Deputy Jeremiah Gechell.  He was issued an appearance ticket.

Jon H. Bush, Jr., 41, of Batavia, was arrested on two warrants and also charged with assault 2nd and obstructing governmental administration 2nd.  On Aug. 5, Batavia patrol officers conducted a traffic stop on Park Road and observed Bush attempting to hide in the back seat. Officers were aware of warrants for Bush's arrest. He was ordered to exit the vehicle. After getting out, Bush allegedly attempted to flee on foot. He allegedly fought with officers and injured one of them before he was taken into custody. He was arraigned in City Court and jailed without bail.

Vinayek A. Graves, 20, of Kansas City, Kansas, is charged with possession of a forged instrument 2nd, identity theft 1st, and forgery 2nd. Graves was arrested on Aug. 8 following an investigation into a fraud complaint. He was arraigned and released.

Nicholas M. Ricigliano, 40, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Ricigliano is accused of stealing an umbrella stand from a business on Bank Street on Aug. 21. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Branco J. Blanco, 60, of Batavia, is charged with dog running at large and owning an unlicensed dog. It is alleged that Blanco allowed two dogs to run at large on State Street on Aug. 18. The dogs allegedly bit a person who was walking in the area.  Blanco was issued an appearance ticket.

Jeffrey G. Ellinwood, 65, of Batavia, was charged with criminal trespass 2nd and criminal mischief 4th. It's alleged that Ellinwood broke into a residence on Porter Avenue on Aug. 15. He was arraigned and released.

Jerry T. Saddler, Jr., 48, is charged with criminal mischief 4th, criminal obstruction of breathing, and harassment 2nd. Saddler is accused of striking another person, grabbing that person by the neck, and taking the person's phone to keep the person from calling for help. He also faces charges from an Aug. 14 of criminal obstruction of breathing involving the same victim. He was arraigned in City Court and held in the Genesee County Jail.

Michael C. Smith, 32, of Batavia, was arrested on four warrants. The warrants were issued after Smith allegedly failed to appear in court on four separate criminal cases. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. 

Geoffrey M. Anderson, Jr., of Brockport, was arrested on Aug. 16 on two warrants, including a warrant alleging bail jumping 3rd. The warrants were issued after Anderson allegedly failed to appear in court on a trespassing charge from 2017. He was arraigned in City Court and released. 

Aaron Joshua Anwar, 18, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Anwar is accused of stealing merchandise from Dick's Sporting Goods on July 31 at 3:03 p.m. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Leeanne Krull, 55, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Krull is accused of violating an order of protection at 12:43 p.m. on July 31 at a location on West Main Street Road, Batavia.  The order of protection had been issued in Centralized Arraignment Part Court just hours earlier. Krull was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Justin Timothy Gladney Sr., 35, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with promoting prison contraband 1st and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th.  Gladney is accused of bringing crack cocaine into the Genesee County Jail at 9 a.m. on Aug. 1. He was held for arraignment.

Tricia M. Blatt, 37, of East Main Street, Byron, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child.  Deputies were dispatched at 1:40 a.m. Aug. 3, to Byron to investigate a complaint of a broken window, possible criminal mischief.  Deputies located Blatt and determined she was allegedly too impaired to care for her child. There was no evidence of criminal mischief. Blatt was arraigned and released.

The following people were charged on Aug. 1 while attending the Kenny Chesney concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center:

• Jonathon M. Morris, 19, of Rochester, was charged with trespass after allegedly reentering the concert venue following an ejection.
• Avery J. Dieterle, 19, of Akron, is charged with trespass after allegedly reentering the concert venue following an ejection.
• William A. McCray, 57, no permanent address, is charged with harassment 2nd after allegedly striking another person while inside the concert venue.

Press Release:

The North Bergen Food Pantry, located at the North Bergen Presbyterian Church, closed its doors at the end of 2023 as its 200-year-old church was closing permanently. 

Since the pantry has a new location there was a need to change the name. The committee met and the name: Mustard Seed Food Pantry seemed to fit perfectly. The mustard seed is referenced in several excerpts from the Bible.

The Mustard Seed Food Pantry is operated by volunteers in coordination with Foodlink (Rochester) and overseen by a board of directors. It operates in cooperation with the Bergen United Methodist Church at their location in the town of Bergen. The pantry is open monthly on the 2nd Thursday from 5 – 8 p.m. and the last Saturday from 9 a.m. – noon. There are handicap entrances and volunteers available to help get the food to your car. Everyone is welcome!

If you would like to donate food or volunteer, please contact Pastor Dave at 585-290-5487. If you would like to donate to this great cause, please send checks made out to: Bergen United Methodist Church, please add “Pantry” in the memo line. Mail to BUMC, PO Box 216, Bergen. Donors will receive an end of the year statement from the Church for tax purposes.

Press Release:

Byron-Bergen Central School District (BBCSD) is pleased to announce that all student meals will be provided free of charge for the 2024-25 school year. Free meal funding is not tied to local school taxes.

The District qualifies for this United States Department of Agriculture program based on income statistics provided by district families in 2022. To continue free meals for future students at Byron-Bergen, all families in the district are asked to fill out the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) form available at this LINK.

“This is the second year that we have been able to provide free meals to all students and it’s essential that this program extend beyond this year,” said Byron-Bergen Superintendent Pat McGee. “I earnestly ask every family, regardless of income, to submit the Community Eligibility Provision form so we can continue to ensure our students’ nutritional needs are being supported.”

In addition to free meals, the CEP data may qualify families for benefits such as reduced rates on Advanced Placement exams, reduced college application fees, eligibility for national scholarships and grants, and Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer funds. District residents with questions about the Community Eligibility Provision should contact School Lunch Manager Mary Della Penna at 585-494-1220 ex. 1015 or mdellapenna@bbschools.org.

Press Release:

The New York State Public High School Athletic Association Inc. (NYSPHSAA) announced the 2023-2024 Schools of Distinction and Excellence. Byron-Bergen has earned the title of School of Excellence.  

The purpose of the School of Distinction and School of Excellence Awards are to unite athletic departments in challenging their teams to achieve a statewide academic honor. 

This year, 114 schools earned the School of Distinction Award and 226 schools earned the School of Excellence Award. Both of these numbers have increased since the 2022-2023 school year, which were 84 schools and 219 schools, respectively.

“I’m thrilled that our student-athletes again achieved the NYSPHSAA School of Excellence award,” said Byron-Bergen Athletic Director Rich Hannan. “These students are as dedicated in the classroom as they are on the field. It’s a tough balance. I’m incredibly proud.”

Schools can apply for School of Distinction status if 100% of their varsity teams qualify for and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award during their respective sports seasons. 

To apply for the School of Excellence Award, 75% of a school’s varsity teams must qualify and receive the Scholar-Athlete Team Award.  

“The efforts made by student-athletes in the classroom are paramount to their success in the athletic arena, and beyond their high school days,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “We are proud of those who put in the work as ‘student’ and ‘athlete’, as well as the growth in both School of Excellence and Distinction
recognition.” 

 Press Release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) board of directors has approved final resolutions for Graham Corporation’s $17.6 million expansion in the city of Batavia and GE Bergen Owner, LLC’s $43.6 million project in the town of Bergen at its board meeting on Thursday, August 1, 2024.

Graham Corporation proposes to build a 28,867 square-foot commercial production facility. The $17.6 million project will create 24 new full-time equivalent (FTE) positions while retaining 367 FTEs.

Graham Corporation requested sales tax exemptions estimated at $383,546 and a property tax abatement estimated at $298,427 based on an incremental increase in assessed value. 

The proposed incentives are estimated to generate $19.5 million in wages/benefits and revenues for local governments generated by the developer over 10 years. The project would generate a $42 return on investment for every $1 of proposed incentives.

GE Bergen Owner, LLC proposes to build a 196,000 square-foot manufacturing facility at Apple Tree Acres. The $43.6 million project will be leased to an end user and will create 60 new FTEs and retain 140 FTEs. 

GE Bergen Owner, LLC requested sales tax exemptions estimated at approximately $1.75 million, a property tax abatement of approximately $2.15 million via payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT), and a mortgage tax exemption of $366,000.

"The GCEDC is pleased to continue to support the growth of our home-grown companies," said GCEDC President and CEO Mark Masse. "These projects strengthen the diversity and vitality of our manufacturing industry and generate more rewarding careers for our community." 

The proposed incentives are estimated to generate $41 million in wages/ benefits and revenues for local governments generated by the development over 10 years. The project would generate a $13 return on investment for every $1 of proposed incentives.

The project is pending, subject to receiving incentives from Empire State Development Corporation.

The GCEDC Board also advanced initial resolutions for two community solar farm projects in LeRoy.

FFP NY LeRoy Project1, LLC and FFP NY LeRoy Project2, LLC represent a total $20 million investment and will generate up to 7 megawatts of power through the installation of ground-mounted solar panels.

FFP NY LeRoy Project1, LLC’s proposed $13.5 million project would generate $4,000/megawatts (AC) + a 2% annual escalator of revenues with the Town of LeRoy, Genesee County and LeRoy School District. The project also includes a host agreement with the Town of LeRoy and is estimated to generate a $566,261 increase in property-tax type revenues to the host municipalities.

FFP NY LeRoy Project2, LLC’s proposed $6.5 million project also would generate $4,000 per megawatt (AC) + a 2% annual escalator of revenues with the Town of LeRoy, Genesee County and LeRoy School District. The project also includes a host agreement with the Town of LeRoy and is estimated to generate a $229,119 increase in property-tax type revenues to host municipalities.

 A public hearing for the proposed project agreements will be scheduled in the town of LeRoy.

Press Release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) board of directors will consider final resolutions for two manufacturing projects with proposed investments of $61 million and the creation of 84 new full-time equivalent (FTE) positions at its board meeting on Thursday, August 1.

GE Bergen Owner, LLC is proposing to build a 196,000 square-foot manufacturing facility at Apple Tree Acres in the town of Bergen. The $43.6 million project would be leased to an end user and will create 60 new FTEs and retain 140 FTEs.

GE Bergen Owner, LLC is requesting sales tax exemptions estimated at approximately $1.75 million, a property tax abatement of approximately $2.15 million via payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT), and a mortgage tax exemption of $366,000.

The proposed incentives are estimated to generate $41 million in wages/ benefits and revenues for local governments generated by the development over 10 years. The project would generate a $13 return on investment for every $1 of proposed incentives.

The project is pending, subject to receiving incentives from Empire State Development Corporation.

Graham Corporation is proposing to build a 28,867 square-foot commercial production facility in the City of Batavia. The $17.6 million project would create 24 new full-time equivalent (FTE) positions while retaining 367 FTEs.

Press Release:

Two students from Byron Bergen recently competed at the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) National Championships at Cardinal Shooting Center in Marengo, Ohio July 10 – 19. 

Justin Deleo an 11th grader and Kyle Smith a 10th grader at Byron Bergen Jr/Sr High School, competed in American Trap, Doubles Trap, Skeet, and Sporting Clays. 

Kyle Smith also competed in the International Olympic Trap event. 

Both athletes are members of the A & B Clay Busters team out of Rochester Brooks Gun Club and compete on the Byron Bergen Trap team. For more information on SCTP visit www.mysctp.com.

One of Genesee County's most successful industrial manufacturers, Oxbo International, founded in Byron 50 years ago, is planning a new 195,000-square-foot facility in Bergen.

According to planning documents, the new factory will replace the existing plant at 7275 Byron Road, Byron.

The new location is part of the GCEDC-created industrial park, Apple Tree Acres, which already includes Liberty Pumps, Craft Cannery ), All Season Party Tent Rentals, GE Renewable Energy, Insurance Auto Auctions, and Leonard Bus Sales.

The 49.7-acre parcel is off South Lake Road, just south of Clinton Street Road.

The Genesee County Planning Board recommends project approval after a brief presentation on Thursday evening.

Oxb manufactures custom-built specialized farming equipment. Planning documents state that the new facility will allow the business to continue growing.

The new site will provide ample room for expansion, said project manager David Ciurzyski.

In response to a question about parking, Ciurzynski said there would be parking in the back for existing employees, with room to add more parking.

"Right now, they have 140 employees," Ciurzynski said. "They're expecting over the next five or six years to have another 140 employees. They'll have room there to expand that parking for those new employees as they come on board."

The company is applying for tax abatements on the project from the Genesee Economic Development Center.

Oxbo began in Byron as a pallet repair business and then became Byron Equipment after filing for a patent on a corn head -- a mechanism to attach to the front of a combine that picks ears of corn off of stalks, leaving the stock behind. 

The company then grew through mergers and acquisitions.

In 1998, Byon Equipment acquired a competitor in Wisconsin, and the new management team settled on the name Oxbo, after an oxbow that yolks and ox team together, to symbolize the concept of the new two integrated teams pulling together.

Both plants stayed in production.

In 2003, Oxbo acquired a pea-picking combine company in Illinois and moved that manufacturing operation to Byron.  Oxbo is the only manufacturer of a pea-picking combine in the U.S.  

In 2004, Oxbo acquired a fruit company in Washington state, and this past June, the company acquired another company in Wisconsin.

However, one of the biggest mergers occurred in 2009, when Oxbo merged with its largest customer in Europe and moved its headquarters to the Netherlands.

The company also operates plants in Brazil, the United Kingdom, and France.

Oxbo employs about 1,200 people in total, 700 in the U.S. The company's gross annual revenue exceeds $400 million.

The Bergen Business Civic Association honored Tom and Chris Sardou to celebrate Viking Valhalla Restaurant's and the Rose Garden Bowl and Volleyball Center's 70th anniversary.

Tom's parents, Doc and Mary Sardou, purchased the restaurant in 1954 when it was already 30 years old. Tom was 1 at the time. In 1957, they added a bowling alley. 

It's been a mainstay of the Bergen community throughout its history.

In 2009, the Chamber of Commerce honored it as Business of the Year.

Bergen hosted its annual Park Festival on Saturday. The event featured a parade, a 3-on-3 basketball tournament, fun and games, and live music.

Photos by Jennifer DiQuattro.

Press Release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) board of directors advanced an initial resolution for GE Bergen Owner, LLC’s proposed 196,000 square-foot facility at Apple Tree Acres in the town of Bergen at its board meeting on Thursday, June 6.

The proposed facility would be leased to an end user and would create 60 new full-time jobs and generate $38 million in wages and benefits as well as revenues for local governments over ten years.

The project is pending, subject to receiving incentives from the Empire State Development Corporation.

GE Bergen Owner LLC is requesting sales tax exemptions estimated at approximately $1.75 million, a property tax abatement of approximately $2.15 million a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT), and a mortgage tax exemption of $366,000.

The project would generate a $13 fiscal impact for every $1 of proposed incentives. A public hearing for the proposed project agreements will be scheduled in the town of Bergen.