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The Oakfield-Alabama Central School District is facing a unique challenge—convincing voters to pass a 2025-26 school budget that requires a tax cap override. 

District officials say a tax cap override, without difficult spending cuts, is unavoidable due to the ongoing economic development in the community.

To avoid a tax cap override, the district would need to reduce the tax levy under the state’s tax complicated cap formula, which requires school districts to account for Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILOTs) from new business projects under development in the community. 

The tax cap levy mark under the formula for the district this budget year is -2.61%.

The proposed budget is $25,555,345, representing a $533,000 increase from the current year’s adopted budget. The proposed levy is $5,839,050, or $142,416 over the current levy.

The budget vote on May 21 failed, and board members shared during Monday night’s budget hearing that feedback from district voters indicated there was confusion over spending, the need for the override, school bus expenses, and capital project spending.

The district is presenting the same budget proposal to voters, which some residents find confusing, according to a couple of speakers. 

There were about 20 residents, plus board members, in the audience for the hearing, which Board President Justin Staebell said was the biggest turnout he's seen for a school district budget meeting.

Laura Kowalczyk, business administrator, explained the board’s reasoning, “There was a lot of communication between the residents, between the board, and between the staff, to answer a lot of questions and discuss these things. And the conclusion was that we should, with additional information and having answered questions, we should present the same budget to the voters the second time, with clarifications being made.”

The budget includes the purchase of three diesel buses—a full-size bus, a small bus with a wheelchair lift, and another small bus—following the district’s replacement cycle. 

“These are all diesel buses, and these will be aided at 90% over the next five years,” Kowalczyk said.

The district is also preparing for the state’s coming electric bus mandate.

Alabama resident Jessica Gang had several questions during the meeting. She wanted to understand better what was driving the board's decision to come back with essentially the same budget as the one that had been voted down.

"I do want my kids to have a wonderful education, but I don't understand how we got here," Gang said. "It felt like you guys said you're going to have to keep increasing taxes for the foreseeable future, so I guess I just wanted to know there are some changes on the horizon," Gang said.

Board member Malorie Benjamin empathized with Gang.

“I agree. I don’t want my taxes to go up. I don’t want to pay anymore, but at the end of the day, I also like all the options our kids are afforded here as a community, we have a lot of things that most rural school districts don’t have and a lot of opportunities for kids to be involved, and I don’t want to see any of those go away,” Benjamin said.

At the heart of the district's tax levy challenge is the influx of projects coming into WNY STAMP, particularly this year's projects, such as Edward's Vacuum, and how these projects complicate the state’s tax cap formula. 

“The reason that our tax cap is negative this going into next school year is that we have a PILOT payment from them that is coming on our rolls," said Superintendent John Fisgus. "So if you have that tax formula, you know formula here, you’ll see that the prior year tax levy number is always the first number that goes into this formula, and then there’s a growth factor that’s set. And then the next number is you add on the prior year's PILOT payments. So that’s what we have this year.”

Fisgus also addressed alternatives to PILOTs, such as educational contribution agreements (ECAs), which provide revenue that does not count against the tax levy and offer more flexibility in budgeting.

“One of the things, too, that school districts are getting into are these ECAs, these educational contribution agreements, instead of PILOT payments," he said. "When PILOT payments come on for school districts, it does have a negative tax impact on your tax levy. So, receiving that money really gives us more freedom to use it for what we need it for."

The district aims to negotiate Economic Development Agreements (ECAs) with companies relocating to the area, such as a proposed data center for WNY STAMP in the town of Alabama.

If the budget does not receive at least 60 percent approval, the district must adopt a contingency budget. Kowalczyk said,

“If this proposed budget doesn’t pass, the board will adopt a contingent budget, and there are parameters that go into what contingent expenses are and are not. So, all non-contingent expenses will have to be removed from this budget. So that includes equipment, our bus purchases, our transfer to capital, and our capital outlay expense. The district can also not allow the free use of facilities, so we cannot incur any costs for outside organizations to use the facilities.”

Fisgus said the district is proud to provide its facilities for community groups to use during non-school hours, and that use has increased over the years. If that budget fails, there will be a radical change for the community.

“It seems like this place is now open -- we’re getting 24/7 coverage, which includes 12–14 hours on a Saturday and 12–14 hours on a Sunday," Fisgus said. Obviously, we need to staff, to have people here. We just can’t incur those costs when you know our custodial or maintenance crew are working overtime and those additional hours.”

Community groups would likely be required, in that case, to pay a user fee, Fisgus said.

"We will have to go back and review our facilities use fee. I want to say they’re $50 an hour," Fisgus said. "We’re going to have to go back and make sure that we are not incurring any costs moving forward when an outside organization uses our facilities.”

Salaries and benefits account for approximately 63 percent of the budget, with other categories including debt service, BOCES, shared services, and capital outlay. The district plans to use $738,000 of appropriated fund balance and $470,470 of reserves.

Fisgus emphasized that there is no relationship at all between the proposed budget and the capital improvement project approved by voters last year,  except for the planned transfer to capital.

“This capital project is already taken care of. It’s already been approved," Fisgus said. "But this work is going to continue and be completed by the end of next fall. Whether this budget is approved or not. It’s really two separate buckets. People get confused a little bit about this project being in the budget.” 

In order to avoid spending peaks and valleys, Fisgus said it is important to keep finances level year to year, especially as it relates to debt service.

“As far as the funding goes, we have debt service falling off from the last project, and we have this transfer to capital coming on with this project, which is part of our budget," Fisgus said. "What we’re doing is we’re keeping it a flat line. So, you don’t want to see the ups and downs, the ebbs and flows, of debt service falling off and new expenses. So it’s very systematic in that we keep everything at a level pace.”

The district’s history shows that proposed tax levy increases have typically stayed below the tax cap calculation in recent years. The board emphasized the importance of maintaining the budget to ensure long-term sustainability and avoid future financial issues.

“So cutting that stuff out gets you through this year, keeps you at zero percent, but next year you’re going to have to deal with it—you can’t just keep pushing off the buses," Staebell said. "Eventually, you’ve got to replace them. If you don’t start to get the additional revenue, then you have to make more of the long-term cuts to make the budget work. That’s where we’re looking at the long term—what can we do to trim and make those lasting cuts that are sustainable in the district? The additional revenue in this budget is what helps keep things going as we continue to work through and figure out what we can cut long term.”

Benjamin said the board received a good deal of useful feedback from community members in a survey the district took after the budget vote failed, and that factored into how the board approached representing the budget to voters.

“I think the reason for part of why we made that decision collectively was related to the fact that we heard the feedback we took into account," Benjamin said. "It’s not perfect, right? Because we didn’t hear from every single voter in the community, but it was some level of information. What we found was that there was a lot of misinformation about this particular budget. So I think what we were trying to focus on was whether it was an educational failure on our part to give people the information so that they can make an informed decision."

The survey will help inform the board going forward, she said.

"I think there’s a lot in that survey that we learned that we’re trying to make action on at this point in time, but none of that was things we could do in a week’s time to actually make an impact the longer term things that we need to address, and I think we’re all committed to actively taking action on those things,” Benjamin said.

Board member Maria Thompson said the board has put a lot of time and thought into the budget, and the community has been in constant communication, providing them with feedback to consider.

“We have put in a considerable amount of time here and on the weekends," Thompson said. "I was at a tournament in Olean, coaching my daughter’s softball team. I’m on third base coaching, and I’m texting people. They’re asking questions. So I mean, again, maybe it’s just, you know, lip service at this point, but I promise you, we have heard and we it’s not going to stop on June 17, at 8:01 p.m., this is something that we are going to be working diligently towards, not just for this budget, but for future budgets as well. We’ve got a lot of feedback, and we appreciate the community for coming forward and doing that.”

The budget revote is scheduled for Tuesday, June 17, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the Middle High Community Room.

Joseph Flynn, of Batavia, finished first on Saturday in the Ninth Annual Run Baby Run 5K, which benefits All Babies Cherished.

Flynn's time was 20:16.

The top female, and second overall, was Ruby Parrish, 24:16.

Third place was taken by 9-year-old C. Johnson.

The race started and finished at the Northgate Community Center, 350 Bank St.

Photos by Howard Owens.

The owner of the nearly completed MedTech Landing, an 80-unit apartment complex across the road from Genesee Community College, thinks the new complex is filling a market need in Batavia.

That need is for quality, market-rate apartments that are an easy drive to downtown and to a Thruway interchange.

“It takes a lot of energy to get to this point. It’s very exciting,” said owner and developer Dave Mazur. “It’s nice to see officials from the town, city, county, and EDC all interested in the project, almost as a team. They’re helping get the word out to HR departments at local companies and hospitals. We’re hopeful that message turns into tenants.”

Mazur said the design and construction go beyond typical standards. 

“We own these, so we invest in better materials—thicker siding, plastic trim, pine interior, plywood cabinets with soft-close features, and upgraded roofing. It costs more up front, but reduces maintenance long-term,” he said.

Move-in dates are set for July 1 for the building on the west end of the complex, July 15 and Aug. 1 for two other buildings, with another building ready for move-in in December.

Starting rents:

• 1 bedroom, $1,450
• 2 bedrooms, $1450+
• 3-bedroom townhouses, $2,100

The apartments come with a range/oven, microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher, and washer and dryer. Garages are available, and the three-bedroom townhouses have attached garages.

Mazur said the location offers a combination of convenience and setting. 

“We’re two miles from downtown, close to the Thruway and restaurants, but with a country feel. Some units overlook farmland, others woods. I think Batavia lacked this kind of fresh, quality product.”

Mark Masse, president and CEO of the Genesee County Economic Development Center, said, “This is exactly what our board envisioned when they approved incentives for this project. The layout is perfect, and the views are fantastic. These are the type of apartments we want to attract people moving here for new jobs.”

MedTech Landing LLC received a sales tax exemption of $720,000, a property tax abatement of about $3 million, and a mortgage tax exemption of $120,000.

“This is what we hoped it would be,” Masse said. “I think these are really great apartments for people looking to downsize or for commuters.”

A 36-year-old Bergen man who was subject of a multi-agency investigation into weapons possession admitted this week in Federal Court to a charge of illegal possession of machineguns.

Peter S. Celentano, Jr. pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

According to federal prosecutors, on Sept. 29, the New York State Police, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives executed a search warrant at Celentano’s residence in Bergen. 

Investigators recovered 3D-printed pistol frames, firearm parts and accessories, ammunition reloading equipment, tools for constructing privately made firearms, a drill press, and two 3D-printed machinegun conversion devices.

Additional searches at properties in Lyndonville and Medina led to the seizure of numerous AR-style lower receivers, 3D-printed handguns, and more firearm parts and accessories. In total, law enforcement seized more than 200 firearms connected to Celentano.

Investigators also learned that Celentano provided another individual with nine lower receivers, two of which contained a “third pin hole,” qualifying them as machineguns. These firearms were later discarded into the Erie Canal from the Beals Road Bridge in Medina. A New York State Police dive team recovered a cardboard box containing 10 AR-style receivers, an unmarked handgun, ammunition magazines, and additional firearm parts from the canal.

The investigation was conducted by the New York State Police, Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 6, 2025, before Judge Vilardo.

City firefighters with IAFF Local 896 took to the streets of downtown Batavia today for their annual Fill the Boot fundraising drive, benefiting the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Firefighters collected donations from passing motorists and pedestrians at Main and Ellicott streets, continuing a decades-long tradition of supporting MDA’s mission to fund research and provide care for those living with neuromuscular diseases. The results of today’s fundraising effort have not yet been released.

Photos by Howard Owens.

Walter B. Hale Jr., 47, of Lockport Road, Oakfield, is charged with felony DWI (with three prior convictions in 15 years), aggravated unlicensed operation, 1st degree, unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle, 3rd degree, resisting arrest, and obstructing governmental administration, 2nd degree. Hale was stopped on Route 33 by Deputy Jacob Kipler in Batavia for traffic violations on May 24. He allegedly fled the traffic stop, leading police on a pursuit that began in West Batavia and ended on Transit Road in Orleans County. Hale was transported to Rochester Strong for treatment and later to the Genesee County Jail, where he was remanded without bail following arraignment in CAP Court.

Daquan J. Butler, of Brooklyn, is charged with assault, 2nd degree. Butler is accused of striking another inmate and causing physical injury while incarcerated at the Genesee County Jail on May 25. He was held at the Genesee County Jail.

Michael A. Fanizza, 31, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Fanizza is accused of striking another individual during a fight at the Genesee County Jail on June 4. He is scheduled to appear in Batavia Town Court on June 24.

Lyndsey J. Wilcox, 41, of Washington Ave., Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt, 2nd degree. Wilcox was arrested May 25 following an investigation into an incident at the Genesee County Jail, where she allegedly entered the jail and violated a full stay-away order of protection. She was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held for arraignment.

Caleb M. Binnert, 50, of Main Street, Elba, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18% or higher, speeding, and failure to dim lights. Binnert was stopped on May 26 by Sgt. Mathew Clor on Route 98 in Elba. He was released on traffic tickets.

Benjamin L. Mattiex, 45, of Austin Street, Rochester, is charged with petit larceny, aggravated unlicensed operation, 3rd degree, operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration, and unlicensed operator. Mattiex is accused of shoplifting more than $800 worth of merchandise from Target on Veterans Memorial Drive on May 29 and then operating a vehicle with a revoked license and suspended registration. He was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear in Batavia Town Court.

James S. Gibbs, 49, of Colony Run, Attica, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .18% or more. Gibbs was stopped at 1:35 p.m. on April 22 by Deputy Eric Meyer following an investigation into a suspicious condition at Alexander Elementary School. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Bo A. Aquila, 34, of Main Street, Alden, is charged with DWI, driving to the left of pavement markings, moving from lane unsafely, and drinking alcohol or using cannabis in a motor vehicle on a highway. Aquila was stopped at 2:28 a.m. on June 1 by Deputy Jacob Kipler on West Main Street Road in Batavia by Deputy Jacob Kipler for traffic violations. He was arrested, transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing, and held pending arraignment.

Gavin C. Turk, 22, of Ashview Drive, North Chili, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, and speeding. Turk was stopped at 2:39 a.m. on June 3 by Sgt. Mathew Clor on Buffalo Road in Bergen. He was released on traffic tickets.

Oakfield-Alabama Central School District will present its 2025-26 budget to voters again on June 17 following the defeat of an initial proposal in May, after hearing the call from residents for greater transparency in the budget process, officials say.

District officials said community members raised concerns about the lack of information and clarity surrounding the original budget, which failed to secure enough support at the polls. 

In response, the Board of Education and administration held budget workshops and special meetings on May 27 and May 30 to engage with residents, answer questions, and gather feedback.

Based on that input, the Board voted to bring the same budget proposal back to voters. The $25,555,345 plan represents a 2.13% increase from the current year and includes funding for three new diesel-powered buses, facility maintenance, and expanded support for special education, substitute teaching, textbooks, athletics, career and technical education, and mental health counseling.

The district will hold a public hearing on the budget at 6 p.m. Monday in the Middle/High School auditorium. A budget newsletter with a Q&A section will be sent to all district residents. Additionally, recordings of recent budget meetings are available on the district's website.

If the proposal does not receive at least 60% voter approval, state law requires the district to adopt a contingent budget. That would mean $954,000 in cuts, affecting bus and equipment purchases, as well as educational and extracurricular programs, and school staffing. Use of school facilities by outside groups would also be restricted.

"Our valued educational and extracurricular programs, along with school personnel, may also face reductions," said Superintendent John Fisgus and Board President Justin Staebell in a letter to residents. "Managing the use of facilities by outside organizations will be challenging, as a contingent budget restricts such usage that may incur costs for the district."

Voting will take place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on June 17 in the Middle/High School library.

District leaders encouraged residents to attend the hearing and reach out with questions or feedback. 

“We care deeply about our students, our schools, our programs, and our community,” the letter stated. “Together, we can achieve our shared educational goals by collaborating for a better OA.”

Faces are Molly Osterman’s favorite subject. The Le Roy Jr.-Sr. High School senior said she is drawn to the intricate details of a face, especially eyes and noses, and finds endless inspiration in capturing their uniqueness.

“I love faces. They're not necessarily the easiest to draw, but I think that the intricate details of a face -- I'm just really passionate about them," Osterman said during Le Roy's annual student art show in the auditorium on Wednesday evening. "I love drawing eyes specifically. And I love noses. I love any piece of art I can get with a nose. It’s definitely like the centerpiece of it.” 

Osterman’s work was on display as one of the seniors getting spotlighted, among younger students. This year, Osterman completed 19 pieces.

Art teacher Antonio Koukides said he has watched Osterman’s growth since her sophomore year.

“I met Molly in her sophomore year coming into art, and she definitely wasn’t as confident as she is now," Koukides said. "Every project, I feel like she—there was a lot of uncertainty about, can I do this? Can I do it? I don’t like this. I want to move forward. And I think that in her junior year, she started to see that she had more potential. I kept pushing her into different things in this senior year. I mean, 19 pieces of art is pretty amazing for a senior year -- and confidently, 19 pieces of art with little to no questions or guidance. She’s more of a teacher in her own self, so what an example for the other kids. That’s what I say. It’s been awesome.”

For Osterman, art is more than a hobby—it’s an escape from the pressures of school and a source of calm.

“Art-wise, I think it’s just a really great escape. Whenever I’m stressed, I don’t even need any inspiration," Osterman said. "It’s nice to be able to go to something after a long day of being in classes and being stressed out by all the homework I have, and just be able to do something that I enjoy so much, and I can actually just be free from everything else and not think about it.” 

She credits her art teachers for helping her gain confidence and develop her skills.

“Everything about it is relaxing, because I’m just feeling calm, and I can listen to music whenever I’m doing art," she said. "Mr. Koukides is such an amazing teacher. He makes me feel like I actually know what I’m doing, and he’s good at explaining what I should do to make my artwork better. So I just feel comfortable.”

Osterman said her favorite artist is Da Vinci, and much of her work this year was inspired by Renaissance paintings. 

She plans to minor in art while majoring in political science at Le Moyne College, then attend law school at Syracuse University.

“I would say that’s probably the dream—I want to stick with art my entire life,” she said. “It’s just amazing to have a hobby that you’re actually good at and you can feel passionate about, and it’s not like a hobby where I get stressed over it or I’m upset over it, I actually can enjoy it 24/7 and not worry about anything.”

Koukides said Osterman’s interest in Renaissance art sets her apart.

“I don't get many seniors that get turned on by Renaissance—not often, but I do think more of them research things on their own than people realize," Koukides said. "It’s just a style they see, then they start research.”

Photos by Howard Owens

Building memories. That’s been the tradition of Kinderfarmin' for more than four decades.

Natasha Sutherland of Stein Farms in Le Roy, a member of the Genesee County Farm Bureau and one of the event’s organizers, said Kinderfarmin’ is the county’s key connection between local agriculture and its youngest residents.

“Kinder farming is the one educational piece that we have in this county to connect our future with our agriculture,” Sutherland said. “Agriculture is our economic powerhouse for this county, between the processing and the farms, we are the engine of Genesee County. So it’s teaching these kids young, why there’s farms, why there’s tractor trailers on their roads, why agriculture is so vital to their community.”

The annual event drew 600 students and about 400 adults on Wednesday to Post Farms in Elba, owned by Jeff Post.

Sutherland said the hands-on experience leaves a lasting impression on children. 

“The best part about today is that every kid will take away something different because today is engaging. They’re not behind a desk, they’re not sitting in front of a screen, they’re engaging. So it is wild to see what each kid’s little takeaway is, they’ll remember something for years from today,” she said.

She recalled a recent encounter that underscored the event’s impact. 

“I’ve been telling the story all morning," she said. "I went to Dick’s last night to grab some equipment, some extra tents for today, because it’s hot, and the girl at checkout remembered doing this. She’s 20, and she remembered this. I mean, that is the piece that is important to me. I’ve been on a farm before. I did that field trip when I was a kid, and this is why it’s important. That’s what I want to make those core memories.”

Post said this was the second time his farm hosted the event recently, and before that, it was at least 35 years ago. 

“I know that we hosted it like 35 years ago, because I remember coming here when I was in first grade for the same—it’s not what it is now. But yeah, we’ve hosted it several times over the years,” he said.

He expects Post will host the event for the next two years, as well.

He said it’s essential for the community to see what dairy farming has to offer. 

“I think it’s important to show the community what dairy has to offer so that they understand that when they see tractors on the road and people farming, they know what’s going on. We’re the number one economic driver in Genesee County, and it’s good to let people know.”

Post said he hopes the experience encourages children to try local dairy. 

“I just hope that they want to try something else besides the crappy milk they get in school, and understand that it’s good for them and it’s healthy," he said. "We've got a real problem with unhealthy people in this country, and dairy could be the solution to it.”

He said he was glad to host the event. 

“I’m glad that we had a good day that it wasn’t raining and, yeah, we look forward to hosting it the next couple of years.”

Photos by Howard Owens.

The Batavia Muckdogs (1-1) defeated the Elmira Pioneers 13-1 in their 2025 home opener Saturday night at Dwyer Stadium.

Batavia took the lead with two runs in the second inning and added two more in the third. The Muckdogs broke the game open with a seven-run fourth, then tacked on two in the fifth and one in the sixth. Elmira scored its only run in the top of the fourth.

Sean Mindas tripled and drove in two runs for Batavia. Tyler Castrataro finished with three RBIs. Justin Espinal and Jackson Inman each drove in two runs. Brian Fry, Braedon Reina, Blake Ewing, and Caleb Walker added RBIs. The Muckdogs collected 14 hits, stole three bases, and turned a double play.

Gavin Chandler started and earned the win, pitching 5.1 innings and allowing one run on seven hits. Jay Creighton and Garrett Beaver combined for 1.2 scoreless innings in relief.

A crowd of 2,681 attended the home opener. Fireworks followed the game, marking the first of four fireworks nights this season at Dwyer Stadium.

Batavia continues its homestand Sunday at Dwyer Stadium.

Photos by Nick Serrata.

Batavia Downs is betting on experience and an increased commitment to racing as it promotes longtime employee Nicolle Fortes to director of live racing and moves forward with track improvements.

“Nicolle Fortes, who has been with the Corporation for 31 years and is currently director of intertrack wagering, has been selected for the position of director of live racing,” said Byron Brown, president and CEO of Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp.

Fortes, a Batavia resident, replaces Don Hoover, who retired.

The Western OTB board approved Fortes’ promotion to grade seven pay level, which keeps her $102,000 annual salary consistent with the prior director's salary, who was part-time. Fortes will be on the job 12 months a year. 

There is a long-term trend, even at the national level, in live-race attendance and wagering, Brown said. He hopes Fortes can invigorate the experience at Batavia Downs.

 “As you know, racing, harness racing, and thoroughbred racing have been down nationally, and we want to place more focus on it strategically, to bring more people into enjoying racing,” Brown said.

Brown acknowledged that maintaining a racing operation is required for the casino’s license, even as the industry faces a decline in popularity. 

“We are required to have our casino operation. We’re required to continue our racing operation, which is one of the priorities of New York State -- to support the racing industry. So we are leaning into that. We’re going to provide more focus and resources to that element of our business, and we are hopeful that we will see increased patronage, more customers coming in and enjoying racing,” Brown said.

Brown described Fortes as “a very hard worker, very knowledgeable about racing, someone who is well respected by her colleagues in the corporation and very well respected by our customers, and we are pleased to offer her this promotion.”

The board also authorized hiring Gary Wolf, a consultant with more than 30 years of experience, to oversee racetrack maintenance and training, and awarded Keeler Construction a $44,396 contract to resurface the track. 

“Having optimal track conditions is important to the horsemen, to the drivers, and certainly to the safety of the horses,” Brown said.

The Western New York Harness Horsemen’s Association will pay half Wolf's salary.

Brown said the changes are part of a broader strategy to boost interest in harness racing at Batavia Downs. 

Track resurfacing and consultant services are scheduled to begin before the new season and the Night of Champions event. 

Daniel R. Yates, 55, of Batavia, is charged with attempted robbery, 3rd degree, and attempted criminal possession of a weapon, 2nd degree. Yates allegedly attempted to take a Batavia police officer’s gun out of the holster while police were attempting to take him into custody on May 2. He was arraigned in City Court and released under the supervision of Genesee Justice.

Roman B. Warchol, 45, of Elm Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Jennifer R. Warchol, 43, of Elm Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree; operating a motor vehicle without insurance; operating a motor vehicle with a suspended registration; and operating a motor vehicle without an inspection certificate. Roman and Jennifer Warchol were arrested May 21 following a traffic stop, during which both were allegedly found in possession of narcotics. They were processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on appearance tickets.

Supreme N. Ervin, 26, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with public lewdness. Ervin was arrested May 20 after allegedly exposing private parts of his body while in a store on Veterans Memorial Drive in the Town of Batavia. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Daquan J. Butler, 29, of Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn, is charged with possession of contraband. Butler is accused of possessing contraband inside the Genesee County Jail on May 16. He was issued an appearance ticket and will appear in Batavia Town Court on May 27.

Bernard L. Parnell, 35, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and obstructing governmental administration, 2nd degree. Parnell allegedly stole merchandise from Speedway and resisted police when they attempted to detain him. He was issued an appearance ticket and released. Earlier the same day, Parnell was arrested on Otis Street after he allegedly refused to leave a residence and allegedly punched another person. He was charged with criminal trespass, 2nd degree, and harassment, 2nd degree.

Anthony A. Bomasuto, 31, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt, 2nd degree, and aggravated family offense. Bomasuto is accused of being involved in an altercation with a person who has an order of protection against him on April 10. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Kara B. Baker, 52, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Baker is accused of stealing merchandise from Aldi on April 15. She was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Jerome W. Amesbury, 59, of Oakfield, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Amesbury was arrested on April 10 following a traffic stop on Jan. 10, when he was allegedly found in possession of narcotics. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Anthony G. Cicoria, 56, of Caledonia, is charged with DWI. Cicoria was arrested on April 10 following a traffic stop on West Main Street. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Michael A. Fanizza, 31, of Batavia, is charged with burglary, 2nd degree, and criminal contempt, 2nd degree. Fanizza allegedly entered a residence illegally in violation of an order of protection. He was arraigned in CAP Court.

Donyel E. Walker, 26, of Batavia, is charged with burglary, 2nd degree, criminal contempt, 1st degree, and harassment, 2nd degree. Walker was arrested April 17 after allegedly violating an order of protection inside a residence on Hutchins Street. He was arraigned in CAP Court.

Thomas J. Preedom, 36, of Batavia, is charged with failure to register as a sex offender. Preedom is accused of failing to register his address as a level 2 sex offender. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail without bail.

Jacob W. Patterson, 29, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Patterson was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during an incident on State Street on April 15, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Christopher E. Tanner, 52, of Batavia, is charged with harassment, 2nd degree. Tanner allegedly struck another person during an altercation on State Street. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Kelly R. Seeler, 52, of Albion, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Seeler was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on Pearl Street on Jan. 17. She was arraigned and released.

Benjamin M. Klotzbach, 34, of Batavia, is charged with unlawful imprisonment, 2nd degree, and harassment, 2nd degree. Klotzbach allegedly headbutted another person and prevented them from leaving a residence during an altercation on Elmwood Avenue. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Johnny D. Vidal, 40, of Batavia, is charged with filing a false written statement. Vidal is accused of signing a written statement alleging that another person threatened him with a firearm. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Nathiel D. Wilson III, 19, of Batavia, and Ashton T. McWethy-Thornley, 18, of Batavia, are charged with criminal mischief, 3rd degree, and conspiracy, 5th degree. Wilson and McWethy-Thornley are accused of damaging a window on a house and a vehicle on State Street. Wilson was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. McWethy-Thornley was arraigned and released.

Karen B. Armstrong, 48, of Batavia, and Ashlee S. Thomas, 28, of Batavia, are charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Armstrong and Thomas were charged following an altercation on Denio Street, where Armstrong allegedly kicked a 13-year-old girl and Thomas allegedly slapped another person who was holding a young child. Thomas was additionally charged with harassment, 2nd degree. Both were issued appearance tickets and released.

Andrew R. Del Gandio, 31, of Rochester, is charged with DWI. Del Gandio was arrested April 27 following a traffic stop on East Main Street. He was issued several traffic tickets and released.

James R. Briggs, 49, of Corning, was arrested April 30 on four warrants, including two bench warrants and two arrest warrants. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Nankumar McLaulin, 32, of Hicksville, was arrested April 24 on a warrant. McLaulin allegedly failed to appear in court after being issued a misdemeanor traffic ticket in December 2023. He turned himself in, was arraigned in City Court, and released.

John W. Biaselli, 56, of Batavia, was arrested April 24 on a warrant. Biaselli was initially charged with petit larceny after allegedly stealing merchandise from Dollar General on Feb. 28. The warrant was issued after he failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Shelby L. Fryer, 29, of Batavia, was arrested April 24 on a bench warrant. Fryer was initially charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree, following a traffic stop on Dec. 17, 2024. Fryer was arraigned in City Court and released.

Nicole Granger, 34, of Batavia, is charged with offering a false instrument for filing, grand larceny, 3rd degree, and three counts of forgery, 1st degree. Granger is accused of failing to report that the biological father of her child was residing in the home and earning wages, and of forging three documents related to her rental payments. As a result, she allegedly received $6,426 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. Granger was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Nicole Sprung, 39, of Le Roy, is charged with forgery, 1st degree, welfare fraud, 4th degree, and grand larceny, 4th degree. Sprung is accused of failing to report that the biological father of her child was living in the home and earning wages, and of forging a neighbor’s signature attesting that he was not in the home. She allegedly received $2,641 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. Sprung was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Cheryl Ditzel, 61, of Batavia, is charged with welfare fraud, 4th degree. Ditzel is accused of failing to report monies being deposited into a bank account she had access to, resulting in her allegedly receiving $2,435 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Jacqueline Sogunro-Pitan, 44, of Batavia, is charged with welfare fraud, 4th degree. She is accused of failing to report wages she was earning at Walmart and, as a result, receiving $2,304 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released on her own recognizance.

Erica E. Cullen, 34, of Bank Street Road, Elba, is charged with offering a false instrument for filing, 1st degree; welfare fraud, 3rd degree; and grand larceny, 3rd degree. Cullen is accused of receiving $3,138 in SNAP benefits she was not entitled to. She was arrested following an investigation by the Department of Social Services and arraigned in Batavia Town Court on May 22, where she was released on her own recognizance.

Brandon Gerald Starkweather, 33, no permanent address, is charged with criminal contempt, 1st degree. Starkweather is accused of striking another person who had an active stay-away order of protection against him. He was held for arraignment following his arrest on May 22.

Davon H. Patton, 39, of Buffalo, is charged with criminal possession of stolen property, 4th degree. Patton was allegedly found operating a stolen vehicle on Oak Street on May 7. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Brian M. Raphael, 37, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon, 3rd degree. Raphael was allegedly found in possession of a bludgeon, specifically a club with barbed wire wrapped around it, on May 7. He was arraigned in City Court and released.

Joseph M. Tornabene, 33, of Buffalo, is charged with aggravated family offense and criminal contempt, 2nd degree. Tornabene allegedly violated an order of protection by being at the residence of a protected party on April 30. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail.

Marissa A. McGill, 39, of Batavia, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and circumventing an interlock device. McGill allegedly had a child blow into her vehicle’s interlock device and left her children unattended for an extended period of time on May 9. She was issued appearance tickets and released.

Michael J. Cutitta, 40, of Batavia, is charged with menacing, 3rd degree. Cutitta allegedly threatened to kill another person on May 10. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released.

Colleen M. Hutchinson, 50, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree, and criminal use of drug paraphernalia, 2nd degree. Hutchinson was allegedly found in possession of narcotics and drug paraphernalia during a traffic stop on Ellicott Avenue on Feb. 19. She was issued appearance tickets and released.

Justin T. Gladney, 36, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Gladney was allegedly found in possession of narcotics on West Main Street on Aug. 1, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket at the Genesee County Jail, where he is currently incarcerated on a separate matter.

Kaila I. Tidd, 40, of Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt, 2nd degree, and endangering the welfare of a child. Tidd allegedly allowed a sex offender to be at her residence around her children, in violation of an order of protection, on May 1. She was arraigned in City Court and released on her own recognizance.

Edward J. Ludwig, 62, of Alden, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Ludwig was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on Jan. 17. He was arraigned in CAP Court and released.

Ricky A. Marsceill, 60, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th degree. Marsceill was allegedly found in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on May 20, 2024. He was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Bill A. Thomas, 65, of Batavia, was arrested on three bench warrants, all stemming from previous trespass charges where he failed to appear in court. He was arraigned in CAP Court.

Michelle L. May, 50, of Batavia, is charged with harassment, 2nd degree. May allegedly had physical contact with another person during an altercation on East Main Street on May 3. She was arraigned in CAP Court.

Misconceptions about economic development incentives persist in Genesee County, suggests Mark Masse, president and CEO of the Genesee County Economic Development Center, but the results at Apple Tree Acres in Bergen show a different reality: more jobs, higher payroll, and a growing tax base.

Masse met with The Batavian on Tuesday to discuss a recent case study that the agency presented at its annual meeting two weeks ago.

“We wanted to take a look at this as a case study to dispel a lot of the myths that we hear constantly about IDAs and incentives—that after 10 years and the pilot expires, companies are going to leave, that they never meet their job creation goals, all of those types of things,” Masse said. 

The companies currently in Apple Tree Acres, collectively, initially pledged to create 119 jobs. The companies have created at least 419 jobs (companies no longer under a PILOT agreement do not report employment numbers annually, so the agency is including their numbers from the most recent annual report filed).

Combined, the companies maintain a payroll of at least $30 million. 

The PILOT payment (payments in lieu of taxes) and property taxes being paid to local taxing jurisdictions is $343,000 annually.

“That is 28 times what that would have been had it remained ag land and under an ag exemption," Masse said. "By the time all the PILOTs roll off, it’ll be a million dollars in property taxes.”

Apple Tree Acres, which began development around 1999, is now fully sold out following the decision by Oxbo International Corporation to move from Byron to a new plant at Apple Tree. Construction began in September and is expected to be completed by the end of this year. 

The park has attracted a mix of new and expanding local businesses. Liberty Pumps, the first tenant, has grown from 10 employees to more than 300. Masse noted that Oxbo, which considered building in Wisconsin, ultimately chose Bergen because the site fit their needs better.

Oxbo will open with 140 employees and expects to create 60 new jobs once fully operational.

Masse addressed the common misperception that incentives are simply cash handouts. 

“People think we’re handing out bags of cash to companies and we are not,” he said. “If they didn’t build, then there are no incentives.”

He also explained that corporate businesses draw significantly less in municipal services than residential properties, which means the taxes and PILOTs the companies pay help subsidize services for residents. 

“Any corporation with the taxes they’re paying is helping to subsidize the cost of municipal services for the residents,” Masse said. “So having businesses like this, even under PILOTs, helps to defer a lot of those municipal service costs that residents are paying for.”

Multiple companies at Apple Tree Acres have completed their PILOT agreements and remain in operation, exceeding their initial job projections. They didn't move away, as critics often suggest such companies do once the tax incentives expire.

“Ad Tech and Leonard Bus have been off of their PILOTs for about six years now, and they’re still going strong with no issues,” Masse said. “Most of the others are still kind of in the middle of their PILOT schedules.”

The park currently hosts eight businesses, including a store for the ubiquitous retail giant Dollar General, a recent addition, which Masse said chose the site for its location, the number of employees and businesses at the park, and the daily traffic from the park and nearby I-490.

The impact of Apple Tree Acres extends beyond direct employment and tax revenue. Masse pointed out that companies in the park hire local contractors, vendors, and service providers, creating additional economic benefits that are not captured in the employment numbers. 

“If they sub out, if they hire a local mowing company to mow, landscaping company, window cleaners, their suppliers that are paying their truck drivers to bring in product and take product out—those companies aren’t paying those salaries (in the calculation of annual salaries mentioned above), but those people do have jobs and are being paid because of this particular development,” Masse said.

The Genesee Valley Agri-Business Park in Batavia offers another example of the long-term impact of economic development projects. 

Masse noted that H.P. Hood, which took over a facility originally built by Pepsi Mueller, has invested heavily in the site and now exceeds the original job creation projections. 

“Hood just recently won a national award for that facility as well. On the national food manufacturing scale, the Hood facility is known as one of the best in the country, if not the world,” Masse said. “Hood thinks so highly of Batavia, and we’re so glad they’re here that they bought some of the additional acreage there to plan for future expansions, because a lot of their other places are landlocked. So if they’re going to expand again, it’s going to be in Batavia.”

Upstate Niagara, which bought the former Alpina yogurt plant, has also exceeded job projections and uses local milk, supporting area farmers. 

The Ag Park still has 20 acres available, with CH4 Biogas holding a right of first refusal for a biodigester facility and J&L Ice planning a new facility.

Buffalo East in Pembroke has overcome significant site challenges, including extensive wetlands, to attract new investment. 

Yancey’s Fancy built a 112,000-square-foot facility in late 2015. The facility occupies 12 acres and represents a capital investment of $20.6 million. J&R Fancher Property Holdings completed a mixed-use development in 2022 and is currently working on approvals for two 10-unit townhouse complexes.

“That’s going to end up being a very beautiful park when it’s completed,” Masse said.

Gateway I, developed in the mid-1990s, and Gateway II, developed in the early 2000s, have both generated substantial economic activity. 

Infrastructure investments for the Gateway II have attracted companies like Milton CAT, LandPro, New York Bus Sales, and SCP Pools along East and West Saile drives. 

“You’ve seen a lot of other companies gobble up that acreage because of the available infrastructure that was funded to put in the park,” Masse said. “We’re going to take a look and see, from a case study perspective, what the park generates, and then what the spin-off outside of the park generates as well for an overall economic impact.”

Masse emphasized that the results at these business parks are not theoretical. 

“These projects are real. They’re here. You can go drive out and look at them, and as I said, you can see the cars in the parking lot of the people who are working there,” Masse said. “We have to be competitive on these incentives, on these abatements, because if we aren’t, these companies will build, but they won’t build here, and then we will lose not only the workforce and the people we have, you’ll lose the community efforts that a lot of these companies do.”

He explained that the benefits of these projects extend into the fabric of the community. 

“All of these employees have kids in the school system. They have kids in Scouts, Girl Scouts, and Boy Scouts. They’re always selling things. They’re fundraising for different causes. All of these things are happening inside of these facilities in our communities to benefit our communities," he said. "And if these companies weren’t here, I don’t know where that would come from, and that is a piece of economic impact that is never measured, that nobody ever wants to talk about, but it is vital to the survival of your kids’ T-ball team, your kids’ soccer team.”

Remembered in the hearts of those who knew them -- or know them, for those still living -- Batavia’s Hometown Heroes, the men and women who served in the U.S. military, are the subject of a new tribute.

Rows of nearly life-size banners now line Park Road and Redfield Parkway, each one honoring a service member. The banners went up ahead of Memorial Day, marking the launch of the City of Batavia’s Hometown Heroes Banner Program.

“Obviously, this is a great idea that the city of Batavia and the Batavia Fire Department had to honor Hometown Heroes,” said Byron Brown, president and CEO of Western Regional Off-Track Betting, during an unveiling of the banners with the family members of the veterans whose faces grace the banners. “We’re thankful to all of the families for allowing the city of Batavia to honor your family member. I know that we’re honoring service members who have protected our nation in the past and in the present. And it’s always great to honor the men and women who have served and sacrificed for our country.”

Jessica Best, secretary for the City of Batavia Fire Department, shared her gratitude for the community’s response. 

“I want to thank everybody. It’s been wonderful. Thank you. It’s been wonderful to get to meet so many fantastic families, and I feel like I know some of you personally now, and I really appreciate that everybody’s been wonderful,” Best said. “And I think we had a really good turnout for our first year, and very good feedback. And so I want to thank the families. I appreciate everybody, and I appreciate all the help we’ve gotten from the city and from the Downs. Like I said, I’ve met so many wonderful people, and I think this is a great opportunity for the city to show their support for our veterans, and I look forward to future years.”

The program began with encouragement from Assemblyman Steve Hawley and City Manager Rachael Tabelski and was coordinated by Best. In its first year, 52 banners are displayed—28 along Park Road and the rest on Redfield Parkway. Each banner measures 30 by 60 inches and is expected to last at least three years. The banners will remain up through Labor Day.

City and Batavia Downs crews assisted each other in attaching the banners to light poles. 

Best said, “For our first year, this year, we have 52 banners. So we, like he said, we have some here on Park Road, and the rest are over on Redfield Parkway, and they’re going to be up. We wanted them up by Memorial Day, and they’ll be up through Labor Day. And the goal is that each banner will last at least three years, and then every year, we’re just going to keep continuing to hang them until the integrity is no longer good, and at which time, then we can either purchase new ones, or if the family wants to discontinue it, then they can, but they’re going to be up every year, and then we’ll just continue to add on every year for the program, and hopefully we’ll have all of the city covered.”

As the program grows, Best said, the city will need to evaluate which city poles can support the larger, heavier banners. 

“Because of the size of the banners, they’re larger and heavier than we anticipated. So, not all of the city poles, even though everybody’s like, 'Oh, we have lots of city poles,' but not all the city poles will hold them," she said. "Obviously, given what they are, we want them to have integrity and to be able to hold the banners. So that’s something we’re going to have to look into before next year to see where exactly they can go.”

Best encouraged anyone interested in purchasing a banner for next year to contact the fire department to be added to a mailing list. 

“Anybody who wants to move forward and purchase for next year can call the fire department and talk to me, and I’ll just put them on a mailing list," she said. "That way, not only will it be advertised in September, but then I can send out mailings as well.”

Looking ahead, Best said, “I think this is a great opportunity for the city to show their support for our veterans, and I look forward to future years.”

Photos by Howard Owens

Tuesday, Wolcott Street School in Le Roy held a student art show.

Photos by Howard Owens.

David Jeffery Pinkerton, 32, of Main Street, Le Roy, is charged with assault 2nd and criminal possession of a weapon with intent to use. Pinkerton is accused of fighting with two people at around 1:58 a.m. on May 18 in the parking lot of the 7-Eleven in Bergen. He allegedly caused physical injury to one person who was transported to UMMC with a deadly weapon or dangerous instrument. He was held pending arraignment.

Kelly J. Mungo, 49, of East Main St., Batavia, is charged with tampering with physical evidence and criminal possession of controlled substance 7th. Mungo was arrested due to an investigation during a traffic stop on South Lake Road, Bergen, at 4:39 p.m. on May 5 by Deputy Jonathan Dimmig. She is accused of attempting to conceal cocaine and a crack pipe on her person. Mungo was held pending arraignment. Also charged,  Colleen M. Hutchinspon, 50, of Spring Street, Bergen, who was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell. Hutchinson was allegedly found in possession of cocaine. She was held pending arraignment. Also charged, Timothy L. Corcoran, 61, of Maple Street, Batavia, who was charged with conspiracy 4th and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Corcoran is accused of possessing cocaine and contributing to the commission of two Class B felonies. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Kurtis Rashod Washington, 34, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd. Washington is accused of possessing 23 grams of cocaine, enough to constitute intent to sell, during a probation home visit at 10:51 a.m. on May 5 on West Main Street Road, Batavia. He was transported to the Genesee County Jail and held without bail.

David R. Cook, no age or address provided, is charged with grand larceny 2nd and fostering the sale of stolen goods. Cook was arrested on April 25 following an investigation by Erik Andre and Deputy Nicholas Charmoun into thefts from Upstate Farms Culture Products at 5011 West Ag Park Drive, Batavia. Cook is accused of stealing property that belonged to Upstate over a six-month period and selling the property for financial gain. Cook allegedly stole more than $100,000 in goods. He was arraigned and released.

Heather McGinnis, 35, of Dublin Road, Bergen, is charged with assault 3rd. McGinnis was arrested following a report at 1:15 a.m. on April 17 of a disturbance at an address on Dublin Road. She is accused of biting another person. She was transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Terrance D. Barner, 36, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with obstructing governmental administration 2nd. Barner is accused of failing to leave the Quality Inn and Suites after being ordered to leave by deputies at 9:07 p.m. on April 21. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Casandra L. Matson, 38, of Railroad Avenue, Silver Springs, and Del John Akin, 47, of North Main Street, Silver Springs, are charged with petit larceny and conspiracy 6th. Matson and Akin are accused of skip-scanning merchandise at Walmart at 4:04 p.m. on April 23. The defendants were transported to the Genesee County Jail for processing and released.

Yulia Pityk, 24, of Silver Birch, Rochester, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and speeding. Yulia was stopped at 1:52 a.m. on April 25 on Route 33 in Bergen by Deputy Ryan Mullen. Pityk was released on tickets.

Cody James Nichols, 40, of Avenue A, Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Nichols was allegedly found in possession of cocaine at 4:22 p.m. on May 1 at a location on Apple Tree Avenue, Bergen, by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun.

Stephen Douglas Freeman, 54, of Conlon Road, Le Roy, is charged with felony DWI, aggravated unlicensed operation, driving with registration suspended, drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle, and driving without insurance. Freeman was stopped at 8:29 p.m. on May 2 on West Main Street Road, Batavia, by Deputy Zachary Hoy. Freeman was held for arraignment.

Jennifer Lynn Maher, 42, of Prole Road, Stafford, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, moving from lane unsafely, and no plate lamp. Maher was stopped at 1:24 a.m. on May 4 by Deputy Zachary Hoy on Clinton Street Road, Stafford. Maher was issued tickets and released.

Jason Joseph Meyer, 48, of West Avenue, Elba, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and following too closely. Meyer was stopped at 10:05 p.m. on April 18 on Veterans Memorial Drive by Deputy Alexander Hadsall. Meyer was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released.

Dylan Michael DIbble, 29, of Pole Bridge Road, Avon, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, speeding, aggravated unlicensed operation 3rd, and driving left of pavement markings. Dibble was stopped at 2:08 a.m. on May 10 on Broadway Road, Bethany, by Sgt. Mathew Clor.

Thomas Howard Forbes, 58, no address provided, is charged with DWI and failure to stop at a stop sign. Forbes was stopped at 12:57 a.m. on May 18 on Park Road by Deputy Leah Bezon. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

The jury in the upcoming murder trial will want to know why Michael Poole, an Olcott resident, was shot in the head and his body was abandoned in the trunk of a car and left in the town of Alabama, District Attorney Kevin Finnell told Judge Melissa Lightcap Cianfrini in Gensee County Court on Monday morning.  

Casey F. Spencer, the defense attorney for Edward Dunn, the man accused of killing Poole, argued that many of the specific details Finnell wants to bring up at trial -- jury selection set to begin on June 6 -- are too prejudicial without much value to proving the guilt or innocence of her client.

Dunn, a former Lockport resident, is accused of killing Poole on March 17, 2024.

One of the prosecution witnesses is Kathryn Henry, Dunn's former girlfriend and a good friend of Poole. Finnell said he would need to explain to the jury why Henry did not immediately come forward and report the crime. Henry was initially charged with murder in the second degree in connection with Poole’s death. 

However, on August 22, Henry entered guilty pleas to two lesser charges: hindering prosecution (a Class D felony) and concealment of a human corpse (a Class E felony). She is no longer facing a murder charge. Henry is scheduled for sentencing in County Court on August 18.

The case that Finnell would like to present to the jury would include information about Dunn's prior criminal record and Dunn's alleged burglaries and attempted burglaries, as well as information that indicates Dunn has violent tendencies and that Henry feared for her safety.

That fear, Finnell argued, is why Henry did not come forward immediately after the alleged crime.

On March 27, 2024, Dunn, Poole, and Henry allegedly drove Barker intending to commit a burglary at a laundromat, but the "conditions," Finnell said, were not conducive to a burglary. Finnell indicated that Henry would testify that Poole warned Dunn to be more careful because people were becoming suspicious that he was involved in a series of burglaries. 

Finnell's theory of the case is that Dunn was motivated to allegedly kill Poole because he suspected Poole of telling people about the burglaries. 

He said Henry would also testify that in the short time they were a couple, Dunn said he had committed other violent crimes outside of New York State and she knew that he was facing a felony assault charge in Niagara County from December 2021.

According to Finnell, Henry would say, if permitted by Cianfrini, that Dunn owned a rifle that he always carried with him, and that weapon was the same rifle used to kill Poole. 

When Dunn was arrested by a parole officer, according to Finnell, he was found hiding in a crawl space of the residence he shared with another witness, Norman S. DuBois, and the rifle in question was also in that crawl space.

All of that is highly prejudicial, Spencer argued, to her client. 

Criminal evidence rules generally prohibit the introduction of criminal records and uncharged crimes in trials because the information is likely irrelevant to the case before the jury and could paint the defendant in a negative light. The jury is supposed to consider only the evidence relevant to the case before them.

Monday's hearing was based on case law, which provides standards for a judge to consider regarding the admissibility of prior offenses.

Spencer argued that there are other potential motivations for the crime available in the investigative record and the details of the alleged prior crimes are not necessarily needed to say that Henry feared Dunn.

Finnell argued that without the evidence he wishes to present, the jury would be left with a "blackhole" for the jury to understand the true nature of Henry's fear, and since only Dunn and Henry were reportedly in the car when Poole was murdered, they jury could easily wonder why Henry wasn't the actual killer.

Spencer also argued against revealing that Dunn was on parole at the time of his arrest.

Finnell said all these pieces of potential evidence are "woven into the fabric" of the case and can't be separated.  Henry's knowledge of the prior assault case goes to her state of mind when considering her options after the alleged murder, and the parole arrest and potential evidence uncovered in the search are critical to the case.

Cianfrini raised the issue with Spencer that the arrest parole officer would like to testify at trial, which would indicate that Dunn was on parole at the time of his arrest.

Spencer acknowledged that jurors could draw that conclusion based on the appearance of that specific witness, but it is unnecessary to tell jurors specifically that Dunn was on parole.

The 39-year-old Dunn is currently serving a 2 1/2 to 5-year prison sentence, assigned to Clinton Correctional Facility, for a prior and unrelated burglary in the third degree conviction in Orleans County.

Cianfrini will rule on today's motions prior to trial.

He is currently being held in Attica so that he is available to appear in Genesee County Court and to meet with his attorney as the case moves toward trial.

John Bolton graced a Le Roy High School stage many times 45 years ago, but he may never have beamed more joyfully than he did Sunday afternoon after receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award from his alma mater.

Bolton has done more than achieve success on Broadway and on television. Throughout his career, the New York City resident has given back to the community that nurtured him and gave him room to grow as an artist.

Bolton is an acclaimed performer who never forgot his roots.

“I am so grateful to you all," said Bolton, a 1980 graduate, "and I may not have found the arts in Brighton, a much bigger school district, and I was able to find it here, and it is largely because of this lady right here, Beth Ann Lambian Hooker.”

There were a couple of hundred Le Royans in attendance, many of whom he's known throughout his life—teachers, mentors, friends, classmates, and the students he's helped guide through Le Roy's award-winning musical theater program.

During his acceptance speech, Bolton noted that he's often asked, "What's your favorite role?" He said he always answers, "The next one."

He was grateful, he said, to be honored at a time when he's still looking forward to his next role.

“I’m so glad you’re doing this now, and not, you know, after I’m gone,” he said, smiling.

BethAnn Hooker, Bolton’s former music teacher, expressed her gratitude for Bolton's consistent support of the students coming up through the program behind him.

“The COVID shutdown was so devastating, but you sparked inspiration in a moment when there was uncertainty," Hooker said. "Thank you for showing up to the production of Chicago. You're coming and speaking to the students, the inspiring words that you said -- your words matter, your time matters, and you know that, and you’re so humble in how you approach everything you do. We are so grateful. I am grateful for your commitment and for your inspiration.”

The event was lively from the start, punctuated by laughter, applause, and a palpable sense of community pride.

Master of Ceremonies Nathan Yauchzee and Evan Williams welcomed the crowd and set the tone for an afternoon focused on Bolton’s career and his ongoing connection to Le Roy.

The program featured a medley of Broadway numbers from Bolton’s repertoire, performed by alumni Jack Diskin, Haily Grasso, Suzanne Scott, Andrew Tomidy, Evan Williams, Nathan Yauchzee, and current senior Aubrey Puccio.

The musical tribute brought Broadway energy and polish to the Le Roy stage.

Speakers throughout the afternoon shared stories that highlighted Bolton’s generosity, humor, and commitment to giving back.

Millie Tomidy-Pepper, a classmate and close friend, recounted his early struggles and determination.

“John’s initial attempts to secure performing roles in seventh and eighth grade didn’t produce the results he had hoped for," Tomidy-Pepper recalled. "However, those disappointments pushed him to reach deeper and try, try again. By his senior year in 1980, he had earned the coveted role of the Scarecrow in the Le Roy High School musical, The Wiz. That experience confirmed his passion for the performing arts, and from then on, acting became his life’s passion, one stage and one role at a time.”

Tomidy-Pepper described Bolton’s generosity, recalling how he arranged for students in Le Roy’s Curtains production to receive personal phone calls from their Broadway counterparts.

“This is only one of the shining examples of John’s generosity and selflessness," she said. "John has consistently taken the time to share his time and talent, and has encouraged countless aspiring performing arts students to continue working towards their dreams.”

Hooker shared memories of his early performances and his willingness to help others.

She recalled Bolton’s memorable audition and performance as the Scarecrow in “The Wiz,” highlighting his dedication and comedic timing.

“Auditions happened, and it came down to about four young men who could all sing, dance and act the part beautifully of the Scarecrow. I had to find a way to break the tie, and the Scarecrow had to fall off a small stand about two feet high after being attached to a trellis. Each young man and when released by Dorothy, they were all to fall down, but they saved themselves as they fell, except for John, of course, one arm was released, then the other, and before his arm even got to his side, John fell to the floor as if there wasn’t a bone in his body, just the pile of straw is to say they got departed in the fall of 1980.”

Bolton had a lively sense of humor, Hooker said.

“In 1979, John played Junior Babcock in Mame," she said. "One of my favorite lines was when Mame (played by Suzanne Scott) called him that Son of a Baker Babcock. John decided to add what he thought a college boy would do in his scene with Mame’s nephew, Patrick Dennis. He pulled out a Playboy magazine and held it open to the centerfold. I rose from the pit and almost kicked him from the stage, not so much for the magazine itself, but the fact that Playboy wasn’t even published until 1953, and this was the 1930s. Sorry, I always tried to be time-period correct, if I could. I think John thought it would be a funny bit, until he saw my face in that reaction. I can laugh about him now, but then…”

Hooker described how Bolton returned to Le Roy after graduation to help with junior high productions, choreographing scenes and even writing original plays for the school.

"How very lucky am I? Of all the gin joints, excuse me, I mean, high schools, in all the world, LHS can claim that this talented, incredibly humble gentleman started here,” Hooker said.

Holly Valentine, director of education for the Rochester Broadway Theater League, reminded the attendees that Bolton's impact isn't just local. It's regional.

“He inspires everyone around him, particularly the next generation of performers," Valentine said. "I am here today, not only as his friend, but as a voice for Rochester Broadway Theater League, where for close to 10 years he has been a key member of our Stars in Tomorrow program where he is guiding, influencing and encouraging students from the Greater Rochester region and all over New York State. It’s incredible to watch his work as he mentors so many students with immense generosity, truth, kindness and love.”

Village of Le Roy trustees Bill Kettle and Jim Bonacquisti formalized the recognition by presenting Bolton with a proclamation and the village key.

The proclamation recognized Bolton’s accomplishments on and off Broadway, national tours, television work, and selfless contributions to generations of Le Roy theater students. The village board declared May 18, 2025, John Bolton Day in Le Roy.

Bolton’s remarks at the ceremony's end captured his gratitude and trademark humor.

“I grew up in Brighton the first 10 years of my life, and they said, ‘Hey, we’re moving to this town called Le Roy, but you’ll love it. It’s a beautiful town.’ I was really mad," he recalled. "I loved our schools in Brighton. I loved the diversity, I loved the arts, and I came here grudgingly. Well, after about two days here, I fell in love with it, and have remained in deep love with this beautiful town ever since, its scenic beauty, its rich history and its people.”

He credited the community for nurturing his talent and spirit.

“It truly takes a village. I have wonderful upperclassmen who are so cool and kind to me…so many neighbors," Bolton said. "There was a wonderful woman who worked with my dad at the bank, Mary Wright, who was extremely kind to me and supportive. I want to mention the support I received over the years in wonderful notes along the way and private, wonderful conversations from the great Nancy Baker, my late, dear, hilarious, genius friend, Jan Howard, Sherry Boylan, who remains one of my best friends to this day.”

Bolton’s gratitude extended to the teachers and mentors who shaped his journey.

“I may not have found the arts in Brighton, a much bigger school district, and I was able to find it here, and it is largely because of this lady right here, Beth Ann Lambian Hooker.”

Bolton teased his former classmates, Bonacquisti and Tomidy-Pepper, quoting from freshman-year annuals. The notes his classmates provided new punchlines for Bolton's remarks.

Quoting Bonacquisti’s playful message: “John, you’re such a slob, but you’re a great guy. Don’t ever change.”

He then turned to Pepper Tomidy’s advice, reading her words: “John, it’s been fun having you in class. Watch out for the girls next year -- they’ll be after you!”

He noted, too, the sign-off she wrote in the yearbook, "'I know someday I'm going to see you' -- and this was underlined -- 'on Broadway.'"

Bolton's acceptance speech included many memories of Le Roy. Clearly, his love for Le Roy, especially the Le Roy of his youth, never waned.

He recalled, "making the bank my playground on weekends for $1 an hour to empty waste baskets and shred the neverending stack of print out statements in the basement; working at Super Duper, where I hated being a stock boy and begged them to let me be the first male check out boy -- and they let me! Working as a bank teller with great people at that little branch inside the Ben Franklin and watching the wonderful Canali family buzzing around, running a wonderful business. Roller skating parties at Holy Family. Bike riding the back roads. Kick the can with East Main kids; skateboarding on our perfectly sloped driveway; sledding the big hills of the Le Roy Country Club; tennis with friends at Stafford; the enormous shrimp at George Peck’s Meat Market, 'Where friends meet for meat;' Ice cream at Genesee Farms, the meatball sub at Pizzaland, the sauce at the Casino. Wonderful memories, but it’s all really about the families who welcomed me with open arms. They set extra places at dinner for me, arranged sleepovers, and chauffeured me all around.”

Bolton ended with heartfelt gratitude to his friends and the community that once again showed up to see him grace a Le Roy stage.

"Thank you all for the home you were during those wonderful years way back then," Bolton said. "For the home you found (for) me in performing arts, and for the home you will always have in my heart. Thank you for the love you've shown me then and now, and thank you all for being my family. I love you all. I'm very grateful."

Andre' Miller, owner of Zoom n' Groom, along with assistants, was parked outside the Genesee County Animal Shelter on Sunday afternoon, trimming the nails of dogs as a fundraiser for the Volunteers for Animals.

Submitted photos.

Dan Mault was named Firefighter of the Year at the annual Pembroke and Indian Falls Fire Department banquet on Saturday. 

Mault was recognized for his dedication to training, leadership in planning district training, and his role in rescuing three dogs in Alabama. 

“The firefighter of the Year Award goes to the guy who has the best Monday night attendance in 2024. He was instrumental in planning the district training in 2024 and just so happened to be my nozzle man and assisted in the rescue of three dogs in Alabama,” said Chief Jamie Waff.

Dave Olsen was honored for 50 years of service to the Pembroke Fire District. State Senator George M. Borrello presented Olsen with a proclamation and a special service plaque. Near the end of the evening, he also received an honorary axe as framed wall art as a special service recognition. 

Other awards included EMS Provider of the Year, presented to Ed Mileham, and the Training Award, presented to Ron Tyx, who logged the most state training hours and now serves as district training officer for 2025.

LuAnne Mileham, Ed's wife and an EMS officer, presented Ed with the award and shared stories highlighting his decades of service. 

She recalled a call more than 30 years ago when Ed delivered a baby across the street from their home. 

“I don’t think I’ve ever sweated so much in my whole life delivering this child,” she remembered him saying.

LuAnne also described a moment at church years later when a young girl recognized Ed as the man who helped bring her into the world. 

More recently, she recounted a winter call where Ed assisted another woman in labor. 

“He was thinking of throwing her in his truck and taking her to the hospital, but the ambulance said they were only five minutes out, so he waited,” she said.

The baby boy was later delivered in the ambulance in front of Antique World, and Ed carried him into the hospital emergency room.

LuAnne presented Ed with two stork pins to commemorate his role in those deliveries.

Members recognized for more than 50 years of service included:

    •    George Klotzbach: 58 years
    •    Norm Waff: 52 years
    •    Ed Mileham: 52 years
    •    Mike Warren: 50 years
    •    Dave Olsen: 50 years

“All right, now that everyone has their stuff, you guys have an aide and a nurse waiting outside with your bus," joked Waff. "In all honesty, I do sincerely appreciate all of you guys. More people need to look up to you and pay attention to some of the advice that you give.”

Top responders for 2024 were:

    •    Ed Mileham: 191 calls
    •    Kevin Ross: 185 calls
    •    George Klotzbach: 183 calls
    •    Dave Olsen: 172 calls
    •    Dan Mault: 146 calls
    •    Jimmy Garrett: 128 calls
    •    Ron Tyx: 114 calls
    •    LuAnne Mileham: 113 calls
    •    Dave Linneborn: 111 calls
    •    Roger Mault: 104 calls

Waff reported that the department answered 260 calls in 2024, including 133 EMS calls, six fire calls, 39 motor vehicle accidents, and 27 mutual aid requests. The departments also achieved 1,800 hours of training.

The night also featured a special guest.

On Christmas Eve, during Winter Storm Elliott, Andy Garcia arrived in the hamlet of Pembroke after 24 hours on the road, determined to visit his children for the holiday. Hoping to outrun the blizzard, he instead crashed into a snow bank in front of the Pembroke Fire Hall.

Garcia became known as “Survivor #1,” the first stranded motorist to take shelter at the fire hall, quickly forming friendships with several members of the department.

“I thought I was going straight onto the highway, but instead, I drove right into a snow bank,” Garcia said.

Despite wearing a Kansas City Chiefs baseball cap, he was welcomed inside.

“I was red-eyed, probably because I had been driving for 24 hours or crying because I thought I was gonna die,” he said.

Now a resident of Lockport, Garcia spent three days at the fire hall with 35 other stranded motorists during the blizzard.

“You guys were amazing. I only met you for three days, but you made us breakfast, dinner, and made sure that we were happy,” he said. “They let me win in Uno a couple of times. That was fun. Got to watch some football. Got to teach them how the Super Bowl champions play.”

The evening also featured the installation of officers for the coming year and a memorial honoring members who have passed.

William Joyce, a Pembroke volunteer and Genesee County's Veterans Services Officer, presented a certificate of appreciation to the departments from the Western New York National Cemetery for supporting ceremonies and events.

The evening's emcee, Dan Curtis, had encouraging words for the volunteers, calling on them to persevere in service to their communities.

“Keep at it. Keep your head down. Serve the community," he said. "Do your job the best you possibly can. If you need training, get more training.”