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Photo: Deborah Conti fills vacant board seat in Town of Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens
Schneider swears in conti

On Thursday, Pembroke Town Supervisor Tom Schneider welcomed Deborah Conti to the town board and administered the oath of office.

Conti fills the seat of Warran Clark, who passed away in July after a long illness. She was appointed by the board through the end of the year and is on November's ballot to finish out Warren's term.

Submitted photo.

NEXgistics marks construction progress of new distribution facility in Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens
topping off ceremony
NEXgistics employees listen to speakers at the construction site for their company's new distribution center in Pembroke during a topping-off ceremony to mark progress in the project. 
Photo by Howard Owens.

Press release:

NEXgistics, a leading name in logistics and supply chain solutions, celebrated a significant milestone today in the construction of its new corporate headquarters. In a time-honored tradition, the final piece of steel was hoisted 50 feet above a cheering crowd during a topping-out ceremony signaling the next phase of construction.

The event was attended by key company stakeholders, local officials, and other project partners, united in their efforts to secure NEXgistics’ long-term future. Scheduled to open by the end of 2023, the new 140,000-square-foot facility ushers in a new era at NEXgistics.

Steve Northman, President of NEXgistics, addressed the crowd by saying, "We are thrilled to reach this significant milestone for our new headquarters. This modern facility will embody our company values of innovation, collaboration, and growth. It will serve as a hub for our talented team to better serve our clients as we grow right here in Western New York."

Town Supervisor Tom Schneider said, "Creating good-paying jobs is an essential part of our plans to move the Town of Pembroke forward. The logistics industry is a growing sector in our regional economy, and businesses like NEXgistics are creating more jobs for local workers. I thank NEXgistics for their investment and look forward to their future success and growth."

The new NEXgistics headquarters, being completed by Montante Construction, reflects the company's commitment to investing in its future. With state-of-the-art features and a design that prioritizes sustainability and functionality, the headquarters will house various departments, including executive and collaborative offices and warehouse spaces.

“Reaching the topping-off milestone is an exciting accomplishment, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with NEXgistics to bring their vision to life,” said Doug Elia, President of Montante Construction. “We are proud to create a space that enables NEXgistics to grow and invest in our community for years to come.”

The construction project is estimated to cost $17.6 million and is a generator of significant economic activity in Corfu, NY and beyond. The facility will support 24 jobs and result in additional direct and indirect benefits to the region.

"NEXgistics is a family business that has grown by leveraging technology, expertise, and strategic partnerships to drive innovation and supply chain efficiencies,” said Steve Hyde, Genesee County Economic Development Center president and CEO. “This project builds on their success and affirms our strategic investment in key sectors of the Genessee County economy to create cutting-edge products and jobs."

NEXgistics topping off ceremony
Steve Northman, President of NEXgistics
Photo by Howard Owens
NEXgistics topping off ceremony
Steve Hyde, CEO of GCEDC.
Photo by Howard Owens.
NEXgistics topping off ceremony
Photo by Howard Owens.
NEXgistics topping off ceremony
Photo by Howard Owens.

Law and Order: Batavia man accused of hitting person, fleeing police, and then causing another disturbance

By Howard B. Owens

Joel D. Prouty, 37, of Batavia, is charged with strangulation 2nd and assault 3rd. It’s alleged that Prouty struck the victim in the face and strangled her during a disturbance on an undisclosed date at an undisclosed location in the City of Batavia. When Police arrived on scene, Prouty allegedly jumped out of a second-story window and fled on foot. Officers were unable to locate Prouty that day. On Aug. 4, patrols were called back to the same address for another disturbance between Prouty and the same victim. When officers attempted to take him into custody, Prouty reportedly fought with them. He was additionally charged with resisting arrest and obstructing governmental administration 2nd. He was arraigned in City Court and held without bail.

Owen Charles Scouten, 22, of Batavia (no street address disclosed), is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, speed not reasonable and prudent, moving from lane unsafely, and drinking alcohol in a motor vehicle. Scouten was reportedly involved in an accident at 1:16 a.m. on Aug. 20, on Lewiston Road, Batavia. Two people were injured in the accident and required transport to a hospital for treatment. Following an investigation, Scouten was arrested by Deputy Carlos Ortiz Speed.  Additional charges are pending. Scouten was released on an appearance ticket.

Owen Charles Scouten, 22, of Church Street, Elba, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, speeding and moving from lane unsafely. Scouten was stopped at 7:38 p.m. on Aug. 14 on Route 20 in Alexander by Deputy Alexander Hadsall. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Richard A Demmer, 30, of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant issued by City Court. Demmer was initially arrested on May 29, after he allegedly attempted to rob the 7-Eleven, on East Main Street A warrant was issued on July 12 after Demmer allegedly failed to appear for a court appearance. He was arrested on that warrant on July 13. Another warrant was issued on July 27 after he again allegedly failed to appear in court. Demmer was located by Batavia Police on Aug. 3 and arrested. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $10,000 cash bail, $20,000 bond, or $40,000 partially secured bond.

Crystal A. Mounts, 46, of Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant issued by City Court. Mounts was initially arrested on April 9, 2022 after allegedly stealing property from a local church. A warrant was issued on April 29, 2022 after she allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arrested on that warrant on May 14, 2022. Another warrant was issued on Sept. 19 after she again failed to appear in court. She was arrested on that warrant on July 29. She was arraigned and released.

Lance D. Beals, 53, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th and criminal tampering 3rd. Beals was arrested after an investigation into an incident on East Main Street where he allegedly damaged to an apartment building. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Kavyia A. Spencer, 24, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Spencer was arrested after an investigation into an employee theft from Kwik Fill on Jackson Street, Batavia. It’s alleged that she stole merchandise from the store on two separate occasions. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Patricia M. Anderson, 38, of Batavia, was arrested on on Aug. 9 on an arrest warrant issued by City Court. Anderson was initially arrested on April 9 after allegedly stealing merchandise from 7-Eleven on East Main Street in Batavia. A warrant was issued after Anderson allegedly failed to appear in court. Anderson was arraigned in City Court and released on her own recognizance. 

Edmund J. Sobresky, 54, of Batavia, is charged with DWAI Drugs. Sobresky’s arrest is the result of a traffic stop on April 11.  He was charged on Aug. 8 following an investigation. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Patricia A. McCarthy, 29, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd and public lewdness. McCarthy was arrested after patrols responded to Dellinger Avenue, Batavia, on Aug. 6 for a report of two people fighting. It’s alleged that McCarthy engaged in a fight with another person. During the fight, McCarthy became disrobed. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Jason Howard Heerdt, 27, of Hilltop Drive Elma, Ryan Thomas Budziszewski, 32, of Northseine Drive, Cheektowaga, and Carlie Marie Budziszewski, 25, of Northseine Drive, Cheektowaga, are charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle. Heerdt is accused of taking a golf cart at Darien Lake Theme Park without permission on Aug. 6 at 9:25 p.m.. They were issued appearance tickets.

Joseph David Johnson, 53, of State Street, Mumford, is charged with robbery 3rd and harassment 2nd. Johnson is accused of using force to steal property from an elderly victim while inside Batavia Downs Casino at 1:26 on Aug. 10. He was held pending arraignment.

Christopher James Parker, 34, of Batavia Elba Townline Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Parker is accused of violating an order of protection at 10:37 a.m. on Aug. 11. He was held pending arraignment.

Steven Albert Barraco, 53, of Edgewood Drive, Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. Barraco is accused of shoving another person by the throat during an altercation on Aug. 10 at 5:31 p.m. at a location on Edgewood Drive. He was held pending arraignment.

Brian Michael Tracy, 35, of Horseshoe Lake Road, Stafford, is charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, criminal contempt 2nd, criminal mischief 4th, and harassment 2nd.  Tracy is accused of getting out of a car and striking another person in front of two children on Aug. 11 at 4:10 p.m. at a location on Horseshoe Lake Road. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and held pending arraignment. 

Jason Michael Babbitt, 49, of Perry Road, Pavilion, is charged with 46 counts of aggravated harassment 2nd. Babbitt is accused of calling the Emergency Dispatch Center 46 times, including calls after he was instructed to stop.  According to the Sheriff's Office, his calls were not placed to request the services of police, fire, or EMS.  He was issued an appearance ticket.

Jose Efrain Velz-Torres, 42, of Sobieski Street, Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, speeding, aggravated unlicensed operation, operating a vehicle with improper plates, and driving without insurance. Velz-Torres was stopped at 1:19 a.m. on Aug. 14 on Clinton Street Road, Bergen, by Deputy Ryan Mullen. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Mark Louis Frongetta, 53, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with disorderly conduct. At 6:14 p.m. on Aug. 14, Deputies responded to the Best Western Inn Suites on Park Road after receiving a report of a disturbance. Frongetta is accused of standing in the lobby yelling obscenities and of throwing the hotel's phone. Frongetta was held pending arraignment.

Dennis Edward Biggins, 48, of Franklin Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, and driving too slow (impeding traffic). Biggins was stopped at 4:15 p.m. on Aug. 14 on Route 237 in Stafford by Deputy Nicholas Chamoun. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Lorriance Marie Nelson, 61, of Hillcrest Street, Newfane, is charged with driving while impaired by drugs, speed not reasonable and prudent, and moving from lane unsafely. Nelson was reportedly involved in an accident at 12:51 a.m. on May 25 on Ellicott Street. She was arrested on Aug. 18 following an investigation by Deputy Mason Schultz.  She was issued an appearance ticket.

Joseph Albert Boisclair, 58, of Knowlesville Road, Oakfield, is charged with DWI, speeding, driving left of pavement markings, and failure to keep right. Boisclair was stopped at 1:35 a.m. on Aug. 19 on Lewiston Road, Batavia by Sgt. Mathew Clor. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Angel Eliseo Colon, 41, of Grant Street, North Tonawanda, is charged with harassment 2nd. Colon is accused of spitting on another person while at the Genesee County Jail at 7:02 p.m. on Aug. 16. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Akeem Rashaad Gibson, 33, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with reckless endangerment and unlawful fleeing a police officer 3rd. Gibson is accused of fleeing from a deputy in the Town of Byron at 3:31 p.m. on July 30. He was arrested on the charge on Aug. 15. He was held pending arraignment. 

Joseph Jerome Kostanciak, 33, of Genesee Street, Pembroke, and Shannon Leah Smith, 46, of Genesee Street, Pembroke, are charged with two counts of endangering the welfare of a child. Kostanciak and Smith are accused of possession of drug paraphernalia at 5:30 p.m. on Aug. 18 at a location on Genesee Street, Pembroke, including an uncapped needle that was accessible to children who are under the age of 17.  Both were held pending arraignment.

John Joseph Wojtkowiak, 56, of Attica Road, Attica, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and drinking in a motor vehicle. Wojtkowiak was reportedly involved in an accident at 6:44 a.m. on Aug. 1 at the Totempole Gas and Smoke Shop on Ledge Road, Basom. He was arrested following an investigation by Deputy Kevin McCarthy. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Town planners give go ahead to travel center and apartments proposed for Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens
michael metzger genesee county planning board 2023
Engineer Michael Metzer presents plans for a 144-unit apartment complex on Alleghany Road in Pembroke to the Genesee County Planning Board on Thursday night.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Business growth in Pembroke is keeping Clarence-based engineer Michael Metzger busy.

He had two projects on the County Planning Board agenda on Thursday night -- a new travel center at the Thruway interchange and a 144-unit apartment complex proposed for Alleghany Road.

Earlier this year, Metzger was the engineer who helped present plans for a $142 million distribution center that is currently under construction next to the Thruway.

"Some of it is, quite frankly, driven by STAMP," Metzger told The Batavian after the planning board meeting.  "The apartment project that was presented tonight, by all means. Between the STAMP facility, what's been going on there, what's anticipated to be happening there, and the construction going on now at the interchange that will result in hundreds of new people working in that area, that's what Mr. (Mike) Schmidt (the apartment complex developer) is hoping for and planning for with (the apartment) project."

STAMP is the WNY Science, Technology & Advanced Manufacturing Park under construction in the Town of Alabama. The site is a 1,250-acre industrial park. Plug Power is building a $290 million hydrogen production facility on 50 acres of the park. Last fall, Edwards Vacuum announced plans to build a $319 million manufacturing plant on the site.

The distribution center planned for the interchange is being built by Horizon Acres Associations of Spring Valley and Geis Companies, based in Ohio.

The 144-unit apartment complex is proposed for 8900 Alleghany Road, about halfway between Cohocton Road and Route 5.  Immediately to the south of the currently wooded 8.2-acre lot is a farm field and a long-abandoned gas station.  A single-family home is on the land to the north.  The property is zoned limited commercial and agricultural-residential.

The County Planning Board recommended approval of the project pending approval of an application for a water hookup, a DEC review of any possible endangered species, and consultation with the Corfu Volunteer Fire Department on the potential need for another access point to the property.

The complex will be built in phases of 24 units each, for a total of six 24-unit buildings.  There will also be some garages available to some tenants.

The property will include stormwater retention ponds, though Metzger, after learning the Town of Pembroke requires "ponds" to be fenced, is no longer going to call them ponds in his plans since they won't always contain water. 

"They will be designed in accordance with the state stormwater regulations, which means that they have a safety bench around them, a shallow area, so that if someone should inadvertently end up in it, which is highly unlikely, but if they do, they can simply walk out," Metzger said.

As for the travel center, Metzger, after the meeting, declined to say who the tenant for the new facility will be.  The developer is, again, Geis.

The travel plaza will include diesel and gasoline fuel pumps, a convenience store with a drive-thru, and a car wash.

The lot is 46.6 acres, and the majority of the land is federally protected wetlands. The travel center will sit in the center of the property, on higher ground and not wetlands.  The developed area will be 16.6 acres.

The high ground is currently farmland.

Murder Creek runs through the property.

The property is directly across Route 77 from the TA Travel Plaza, and current plans call for the four-land driveway (two lanes in each direction) to align with TA's driveway. 

In addition to the TA Travel Plaza, Flying-J and Speedway also both have locations at the 48-A interchange.

Asked about the attraction for the developer to an interchange that already has three places for travelers to stop for fuel and supplies and a bit of rest, Metzger explained that the fact there are other travel businesses already at the interchange is exactly what makes it appealing to another travel plaza business.  The more locations at an interchange, he explained, the more likely travelers are to choose that interchange as a place for a break.

"There are times when you have one type of business at an interchange, such as a restaurant or a gas station, and it gets passed by because there isn't any interest," Metzger said. "It's a human nature thing to be attracted to other activity. So when there is an interchange that already has some activity, even if it could potentially be considered competitors, it has a tendency to attract a lot more traffic."

michael metzger genesee county planning board 2023
Engineer Michael Metzger presents plans for a new travel plaza at the Thruway interchange in Pembroke to the Genesee County Planning Board on Thrusday.
Photo by Howard Owens.

Sheriff's Office identifies Batavia woman killed in head-on collision in Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens

A 34-year-old Batavia woman died Thursday afternoon at the scene of a head-on collision on Route 5 in Pembroke.

When patrols arrived on scene after the crash was reported at 3:38 p.m., they determined Nikki Stonebraker, who was driving a 2007 Ford Freestyle, was deceased.  Coroner Karen Lang later pronounced her dead at the scene.

The preliminary investigation, according to the Sheriff's Office, indicates that Stonebraker's vehicle was eastbound and crossed over the yellow line and struck a 2013 Dodge Caravan.

There was a driver and passenger in the Caravan, and the Sheriff's Office did not provide their identities.  They were transported to Erie County Medical Center with severe injuries.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation. 

Assisting at the scene were State Police, Emergency Management, Pembroke Fire, Indian Falls Fire, East Pembroke Fire, Corfu Fire, and Mercy EMS.

Previously: Head-on collision reported on Route 5 in Pembroke

Head-on collision reported on Route 5 in Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens

A head-on collision is reported in the area of 1410 Main Road, Pembroke.

Extrication will be required on two vehicles.  There are four patients, one with possible serious injuries.

Pembroke and Indian Falls fire departments dispatched with mutual aid from East Pembroke.

UPDATE 3:45 p.m.: Checking the availability of Mercy Flight.  Traffic is being closed in both directions, with roadblocks at Route 5 and 77 and Boyce Road and 77.

UPDATE 3:47 p.m.: Mercy Flight is unavailable.

UPDATE 3:48 p.m.: Corfu requested to break away at least one engine and some manpower from its wires-down scene to assist with extrication. An additional ambulance requested to the scene. 

UPDATE 4:04 p.m.: The first victim is extricated.

UPDATE 4:07 p.m.: Victim two is extricated.

UPDATE 8:30 p.m.: There was a fatality in this accident.  The Sheriff's Office will release more information once family notifications are completed.

Town of Pembroke cancels tonight's meeting

By Press Release

Press release:

The Pembroke Town Board meeting tonight (Thursday) has been canceled due to extenuating circumstances.

The next Town Board meeting will be held on August 24th.

Photos: Rainbows and sunset on Monday

By Howard B. Owens
rainbow
Rainbow on Sweetland Road in Stafford, submitted by Todd and Laura Englerth.

There were rainbows along with a pretty nice sunset in Genesee County for photographers to enjoy on Monday.

rainbow
Caitlin Napper sent in this photo of a rainbow in Le Roy.  If you look closely, you can see a bit of a double rainbow.
rainbow
Rainbow in Batavia, submitted by Tom Tharp.
Sunset
Sunset in Indian Falls, submitted by Joanne Meiser.

New travel plaza proposed for Thruway interchange in Pembroke

By Chris Butler

On Thursday, members of the Genesee County Planning Board will discuss whether to grant a special use permit for a new travel plaza near the Pembroke exit of the Thruway.

If approved by the Town of Pembroke, construction crews will build the travel plaza along Alleghany Road. 

Currently, the TA Travel Center, the Flying J Travel Center, and a new Speedway operate in the area.

Planning Board members are scheduled to meet at 7 p.m. on Aug. 10 in the large conference room at County Building No. 2 at 3837 W. Main Street Road in Batavia.  The board's authority is whether to recommend approval or not and whether any modifications should be considered. The Town of Pembroke's planning board has the final say on the application for a special use permit.

According to a Planning Board referral, this travel plaza will sell food and fuel and have a convenience store, a car wash and offer charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs).

The new development will sit on a 49.60-acre parcel, which is currently undeveloped. The site contains several wetlands. The entrance roads must cross over Murder Creek to access the site.

In a separate project, the board is also being asked to consider a special use permit for multi-family development in the same area as the travel plaza.

The area is seeing rapid growth this year.  A new distribution center is currently under construction next to the Thruway.  A mixed-use building opened at Brickhouse Corners (Route 5 and Route 77) earlier this year.

As The Batavian reported in January, the distribution center will take up 100 acres and was pitched as a great location for a distribution center — halfway between Rochester and Buffalo.  

Law and Order: Batavia resident accused of owning six unlicensed, feces-covered dogs

By Howard B. Owens

Rulee A. Allyn, 60, of Batavia, is charged with six counts of owning an unlicensed dog and six counts of failure to provide sustenance to animals. On the morning of July 12, Officers were called to Brooklyn Avenue, Batavia, for a report of numerous dogs running loose in the area. Officers located five dogs and were able to contain them. They were determined to belong to Allyn. A sixth dog was located in Allyn’s residence. All the dogs were allegedly covered in feces and were not being properly cared for. Allyn was issued an appearance ticket and is scheduled to appear.

Jason Eric Howard, 38, of Millison Crescent Street, Angus, Ontario, Canada, is charged with trespass and disorderly conduct.  Howard is accused of remaining on Six Flags Darien Lake Theme Park property after being told to leave by security staff. He is also accused of yelling obscenities and "causing a public inconvenience by making unreasonable noise." He was issued an appearance ticket.

Michael J. Torres, 39, of Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd and obstructing governmental administration. Police officers spotted Torres riding a bicycle at 5:30 p.m. on July 12 on Ellicott Street near Ellicott Place.  Officers were aware the Sheriff's Office was looking for Torres, who had a warrant out for his arrest. When officers attempted to stop him, Torres allegedly fled on his bike. Officers followed him onto Colorado Avenue, where he crashed his bicycle into a patrol vehicle. He then attempted to flee on foot, according to police, but was taken into custody a short distance away. Torres was allegedly found in possession of multiple bags of a narcotic and a large sum of cash. Torres was arraigned and released. He is due back in court at a later date. 

Juan Nieves, 31, of Parkside Avenue, Buffalo, is charged with felony DWI, felony driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, driving a vehicle with a revoked registration, driving without insurance, and leaving the scene of a property damage accident. Nieves was apparently (it's not mentioned in the Sheriff's Office press release) in an accident at an undisclosed location on Main Street in Pembroke at 5:53 p.m. on July 9. Nieves was arrested by Deputy Alexander Hadsall. His release status was not disclosed. 

Cassandra L. Elmore, 31, of Batavia, was arrested on a pair of warrants issued by City Court. The first case is the result of a traffic stop on Aug. 30, 2022. Elmore was charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon 4th, obstructing governmental administration 2nd, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd, operating without an inspection certificate, insufficient tail lamps, two counts of criminal use of drug paraphernalia 2nd, failure to change address and depositing refuse on the highway. Elmore was issued appearance tickets and released. She allegedly failed to appear in court, and a warrant was issued on Sept. 8. She was arrested on that warrant on Sept. 10. During that arrest, Elmore allegedly fought with a police officer and was additionally charged with obstructing governmental administration. Warrants were issued in both cases on Jan. 23, after Elmore allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arrested on Feb. 2. Warrants were again issued on Feb. 21, after she failed to appear in court. On July 14, Elmore was located at a residence on River Street and arrested. She was additionally charged with two counts of bail jumping 3rd. She was arraigned and remanded to the custody of the Genesee County Jail. 

Phillip Ashley Ruffin, 50, of Main Street, Niagara Falls, is charged with felony DWI and parking on a highway. Ruffin was allegedly found in his vehicle at 1:57 a.m. on July 15, parked in the middle of the roadway on Redfield Parkway with his emergency flashers activated Sgt. Mathew Clor. Ruffin was held pending arraignment.

Jamonte O. Murrell, 19, of Batavia, is charged with assault 2nd. Murrell is accused of cutting another person during a disturbance on July 19 at a residence on Watson Street, Batavia. He was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance.

Ahdeosun R. Aiken, 25, of Attica, and Amanda J. Jackson, 22, of Batavia, are charged with endangering the welfare of a child. Aiken and Jackson are accused of engaging in sexual conduct in a vehicle on July 8 at a location not released by police while a one-year-old child was in the vehicle. They were both issued appearance tickets.

Richard A. Demmer, 30, of Batavia, was arrested on a City Court warrant on July 13. Demmer was originally arrested on May 29 and charged with Attempted Robbery 3rd. It’s alleged that he entered a local business and demanded money from the clerk. The warrant was issued on July 12 after Demmer allegedly failed to appear in court. He was located by Police on July 13 at the location of an unrelated incident. He was arraigned and ordered to reappear at a later date.

Richard Allen Demmer, Jr., 30, of South Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Demmer is accused of stealing merchandise from the East Pembroke Crosby's on Main Road, Pembroke at 8:20  a.m. on July 18. During his arrest by Chief Deputy Joseph Graff, he was allegedly found in possession of a controlled substance. Demmer was released on an appearance ticket. 

Benjamin G. Evans, 34, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Evans is accused of stealing a package from the porch of a residence on State Street On July 8. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Jordan A. Baxter, no age nor address provided, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd and criminal trespass 2nd. Baxter is accused of entering the residence of another person in violation of an order of protection on July 8. He was arraigned and ordered held on $1,000 bail, $2,000 bond, or a $5,000 partially secured bond.

Ronald W. Lewis, 35, of Rochester, is charged with petit larceny. Lewis is accused of stealing from a local business on July 7. He was issued an appearance ticket. 

Crystal M. Boute. 34, of Batavia, is charged with criminal mischief 4th. Boute is accused of damaging another person's mobile phone during an argument in the parking lot of a local business. She was issued an appearance ticket.

Brian M. Raphael, 35, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Raphael is accused of stealing from a business on West Main Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Lance D Beals, 53, of Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and criminal mischief 4th. Beals is accused of stealing a mobile phone from another person and intentionally damaging it. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Karina M. Treleaven, 39, of Batavia, is charged with felony DWI, moving from lane unsafely, and leaving the scene of a property damage accident. Treleaven was reportedly involved in a one-vehicle accident at 11:30 p.m. on July 11 in the 300 block of Washington Avenue, Batavia. A vehicle allegedly driven by Treleaven struck a parked car.  The driver fled on foot, and officers located Treleaven nearby the accident a short time later and determined she was the driver of the vehicle and was allegedly drunk at the time of the accident. Treleaven was previously convicted of DWI on June 1. She was arraigned in City Court and released under supervision.

Michelle L. Misiak, 58, of Le Roy, was arrested on a warrant issued by City Court. Misiak was initially charged with petit larceny on Sept. 27 for allegedly stealing from Aldi on East Main Street, Batavia. The warrant was issued on March 10 after she allegedly failed to appear in court. On July 12, Misiak was located by the Village of Leroy Police and turned over to Batavia Police. She was additionally charged with Bail Jumping 3rd and arraigned in  City Court. She was held on bail and remanded to the custody of the Genesee County Jail.

Mason Andrew Hogle, 19, of Lockport Road, Oakfield, is charged with petit larceny. Hogle is accused of shoplifting from Walmart at 1 p.m. on July 6. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Maurice Richard McCoy, 70, of North Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. McCoy was stopped at 6:13 p.m. on July 2 on Veterans Memorial Drive by Deputy Alexander Hadsall. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Sara Marie Conrow, 34, of Rochester, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, and an unregistered vehicle. Conrow was charged following an investigation by Deputy Austin Heberlein at the Speedway Truck Stop on Route 77 in the Town of Pembroke on July 13 at 2:35 a.m. Conrow was issued an appearance ticket.

Nathaniel Ashton Finta, 18, of North Main Street, Oakfield, is charged with criminal mischief 3rd. Finta was arrested in connection with an incident reported at 3:30 a.m. on July 11 at a location on North Main Street, Oakfield. The Sheriff's Office did not release information on the alleged incident. Finta was held pending arraignment.

Derek John Machala, 28, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with trespass. Machala is accused of remaining unlawfully on a property at 8:39 p.m. on July 16. He was held pending arraignment.

Benjamin Gove Evans, 34, of State Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny and criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Evans was arrested in connection with an incident reported at 9:45 p.m. on July 17. The Sheriff's Office did not release information about the alleged incident. The address of the location, somewhere on Veterans Memorial Drive, was redacted from the release. Evans was released on an appearance ticket.

Jada Lee Coursey, 32, of West Fifth Avenue, Warren, Pa., is charged with harassment 2nd and endangering the welfare of a child. Coursey is accused of striking another person in front of a child while at Darin Lake at 11:35 p.m. on July 17. Coursey was issued an appearance ticket.

Joshua Lee Jones, 41, of Auburn, is charged with disorderly conduct. Jones is accused of being involved in a disturbance at Six Flags Darien Lake Theme Park on July 19 at 9:46 p.m. He was released on an appearance ticket.

O'Neil Dejusus Cruz, 34, of Poplar Avenue, Mineral, Va., is charged with DWI drugs.  Following a driving complaint called into dispatchers at 8:21 p.m. on July 21, Cruz was allegedly found by Deputy David Moore on Alleghany Road, Pembroke, operating a semi-truck while his ability was impaired by drugs. Cruz was issued an appearance ticket.

Joseph Lowell Hampton, 26, of Myrtle Street, Le Roy, is charged with harassment 2nd. Hampton allegedly pushed a former friend at 1 a.m. on July 19 at a location on Myrtle Street, Le Roy. Hampton was arraigned, and an order of protection was issued.

Joseph Thaddeus Martino, 31, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with attempted assault 3rd.  Martino was arrested at the Genesee County Jail. It's unclear from the Sheriff's Office press release if he was an inmate. The incident was reported at 5:05 p.m. on July 22. There were no other details about the alleged incident released. Martino was issued an appearance ticket.

Daniel Jay Torok, Jr., 36, of Liberty Avenue, Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Torok was arrested by Deputy Ryan Mullen in connection with an incident reported at 11:40 p.m. on July 22 at the Genesee County Jail. The Sheriff's Office did not release information on what led to the arrest of Torok. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Kasondra Lynn Hubbard, 38, of Gilbert Street, Le Roy, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, driving drunk with a child in the vehicle, and endangering the welfare of a child. Hubbard was stopped at 10:16 p.m. on July 22 on Gilbert Street, Le Roy, by Deputy Mason Shultz. Hubbard was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Laurin Angeline Moro, 21, of Kalar Road, Niagara Falls, is charged with trespass. Moro was arrested at Darien Lake on July 15 at 8:30 p.m. The Sheriff's Office did not release information on events that led to her arrest. Moro was issued an appearance ticket.

Brian Michael Raphael, 35, of Fisher Park, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. Raphael is accused of concealing merchandise while at Tractor Supply Co. on East Main Street Road, Batavia, and attempting to leave the store without paying for the merchandise. Raphael was arrested by Deputy Zachary Hoy and released on an appearance ticket. 

Thomas Anthony Salerno, 56, of Hall Road, Lancaster, is charged with DWI and insufficient tail lamps. Salerno was stopped at 9:39 pm. on July 29 on Route 20 in Darien by Deputy Jacob Kipler. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Adam Troy Shipwash, 42, of West Main Street Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal contempt 2nd. Shipwash was arrested in connection with an incident reported at 1:50 p.m. on July 30 at a location on Terry Street, Byron. The Sheriff's Office did not release information on events that led to the charge. Shipwash was released on an appearance ticket.

Pembroke 12U all stars bring home the champisonship win

By Press Release
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Pembroke 12U All-Stars after championship win

Press Release:

Pembroke hosted the all-star championship versus TriTown Thursday and won soundly, 11-3. Their matchups are always a battle through and through, and this game was no exception. 

The ace, Mason Weatherbee took the win with 5 strikeouts and pitching 5 innings. Connor Caleb once again dominated behind the plate for the Dragons.

Gavin Liss, Michael Gorski and Harlan Campbell were solid defensively, along with Logan Anderson who snagged two outs in right field. Carter Thaine closed out the mound for Pembroke.

Carter Lang had a 3 RBI shot to center field, and Connor Lang hit a straight shot home run over center field. Hits by Luke Windnagle, Jackson Loggins, Joe Kohorst and Charles Stringham helped secure the win.

Submitted photos by Allison Lang

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Pembroke service area reopens, features Burger King, Popeyes, and Dunkin'

By Press Release
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Pembroke service area reopens on the thruway eastbound

Press Release:

The New York State Thruway Authority today announced the new Pembroke Service Area (I-90 eastbound mile marker 397) in Corfu is now open to the public.

The location is the tenth new service area to open to Thruway customers as part of the $450 million project to redevelop and modernize all 27 Thruway service areas. The New Baltimore, Clarence, Ardsley, Plattekill, Clifton Springs, Iroquois, Indian Castle, Chittenango and Junius Ponds Service Areas have reopened.

The Pembroke Service Area is located on I-90 eastbound between exit 48A and exit 48. The facility is more than 20,000 square feet making it one of the largest new buildings on the system.

Restaurant options include:

  • Burger King
  • Popeyes
  • Panera Bread (opening later this year)
  • Dunkin’ (drive-thru)
  • Applegreen C-Store
  • Taste NY Food and Drink Products

Other amenities include:

  • Playground area*
  • Outdoor seating
  • Dog walking area
  • Climate controlled pet enclosure*
  • Private nursing area
  • Digital tourism kiosk*
  • Six level 3 high-speed EV chargers*

 *Available Soon

The Pembroke Service Area is one of four locations on the Thruway that has expanded amenities for commercial vehicle drivers.

Commercial trucking amenities include:

  • Separate entrance
  • Lounge
  • Showers
  • Lockers
  • Restrooms
  • Washer and dryer

With the opening of the Pembroke Service Area, the Angola Service Area (I-90 eastbound and westbound, mile marker 447) and the Scottsville Service Area (I-90 eastbound, mile marker 366) are now closed for construction. Fuel services remain available at all service areas during construction.

All 27 service areas are being redeveloped in a $450 million project with Empire State Thruway Partners. The project is funded through a public-private partnership, and no toll or tax dollars are used for construction.

Customers can learn more about the project on the Thruway Authority’s website. Customers can view a project map, photo gallery, renderings, and more information about the planned amenities and services.

In 2022, motorists took more than 376 million trips and drove 7.7 billion miles on the Thruway. The Thruway Authority’s service areas are open 24 hours a day and offer motorists a variety of food and beverage options, restroom facilities, and fueling for passenger and commercial vehicles. Taste NY Farm Markets and Tourism Information Centers are also available at select locations.

Photo courtesy of NYS Thruway website

Grand Jury Report: Man accused of driving drunk with children in the vehicle

By Howard B. Owens

Zachary D. Leitten is indicted on three counts of aggravated DWI, a Class E felony,  DWI, a Class E felony, DWI, as a misdemeanor, and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, a misdemeanor. Leitten is accused of driving drunk with children less than 15 years old in the car on Jan. 17 in the Village of Corfu. His BAC at the time of his arrest was allegedly .08.

Kent L. Handy, Jr., is indicted on a count of DWI, a Class E felony. Handy is accused of driving drunk on Jan. 28 in the Town of Stafford while on the Thruway. The indictment alleges that Handy was previously convicted of DWI on Sept. 8, 2015, in the City of Rochester.

Ryan J. Wanike is indicted on counts of DWI, a Class D felony, and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, a Class D felony. Wanike is accused of driving drunk on Nov. 28 on Clinton Street Road in the Town of Stafford. His BAC was allegedly .08.  The indictment alleges that he had a prior DWI conviction on Sept. 24, 2015, in the Town of Gates.

Sarah L. Elmore is indicted on counts of aggravated DWI, a Class E felony, and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, a Class E. felony. Elmore is accused of driving with a BAC 0f .08 or greater with a child less than 15 years old in the vehicle on Sept. 10 in the Town of Bethany on Molasses Hill Road.

Joseph C. Jeffords is indicted on counts of falsifying business records in the first degree, a Class E felony, and petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor. Jeffords is accused of falsifying a bill of sale at Pawn King on Dec. 10 in order to conceal a theft from Dick's Sporting Goods.

Parker E. Payton is indicted on counts of aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony, DWI, a Class E felony, and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater, a Class E felony. Payton is accused of driving drunk while on a revoked license on Dec. 31 on South Street in the Village of Le Roy.

Dale W. Skaters, Jr., is indicted on one count of grand larceny in the fourth degree. Skates is accused of stealing property valued at more than $1,000 while at The Home Depot on Nov. 16.

Chad W. Main is indicted on counts of driving while ability impaired by drugs, a Class E felony, aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree, a Class E felony, criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fifth degree, a Class D felony, and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a Class A misdemeanor.  Main is accused of driving while impaired by drugs on Parmalee Road in the Town of Le Roy on Dec. 2 while his license was revoked. He is accused of possessing more than 500 milligrams of cocaine and of possessing methamphetamine. The indictment alleges that Main had his driving privileges revoked on April 27, 2017.

Isaac D. Abrams is indicted on one count of robbery in the second degree, a Class C violent felony. Abrams is accused of using force on March 10 to steal money and a safe from a dispensary on Poodry Road in the Town of Alabama.

Matthew M. Keiffer is indicted on counts of burglary in the third degree, a Class D felony, two counts of grand larceny in the fourth degree, a Class E felony, and criminal mischief in the third degree, a Class E felony. Kieffer is accused of breaking into a business in the Town of Pembroke on March 16, causing damage to the building, with the intent to commit a crime, and of stealing two credit cards.

Anthony F. Armstrong, Jr., is indicted on counts of burglary in the first degree, a Class B violent felony, unlawful imprisonment in the first degree, criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, a Class D felony, menacing in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor, and three counts of criminal mischief in the fourth degree, a Class A misdemeanor. Armstrong is accused of entering an apartment on Walnut Street, City of Batavia, on March 20, with the intent to commit a crime within, and of using a serrated blade knife to threaten another person and of unlawfully restraining that person. He is also accused of causing physical damage to the property.

Pembroke board mulls potential $5M new Highway Department garage

By Chris Butler

Pembroke needs a new highway garage, and, to pay for it, the town may require a referendum.

Town Supervisor Thomas Schneider said a replacement highway garage could cost as much as $5 million.

The existing highway garage serves as a storage and maintenance shop. The garage also secures trucks and other equipment that salt the roads during severe winter weather.

“Our trucks are a lot bigger than they used to be,” Schneider said. “It [the garage] has a flat roof, which does not make sense in this climate. Rather than spend money and do a complete refurbishment, not knowing what you will get into, it seems more reasonable to look at replacing it.”

The project is in its early planning stages and could potentially begin next year. Town officials might finance the garage through a bond resolution before it goes to bid.

“But it might be subject to a 30-day permissive referendum,” Schneider said. “That would happen if someone disagreed with the town board. Say, for example, we did vote to approve a bond resolution, but if a resident or someone else disagreed with us, they would have 30 days to circulate a petition to ask for a vote on it.”

Per New York law, a town board’s resolutions are subject to a referendum on petition. Voters may petition for acts or resolutions to appear on a ballot so that they may decide any given matter through an election.

“We are trying to do this within the confines of our existing budget, depending upon if we were to finance it and depending upon the length of the financing that would determine whether or not we would have to increase taxes,” Schneider said.

Town Board members met to discuss the matter of a replacement garage at a June 22 workshop, but those conversations didn’t go far, Schneider said.

As for what's next, Schneider said the town has yet to schedule any hearings.

"The matter is with our bond counsel right now," Schneider said

"He's working up the needed paperwork."

Also on the June 22 agenda was a community center kitchen.

Schneider said the town rents one part of the community center to the Village of Corfu for their offices. The rent agreement is up for renewal.

“We are in discussion with them about an increase in the rent because they have not had an increase in, I believe, 10 years,” Schneider said.

“The rent is currently about $11,000 a year. No one has decided what a new proposed rent would be, but, more than likely, there will be an increase.”

Law and Order: warrant suspect accused of resisting arrest

By Howard B. Owens

Jacob William Patterson, 27, of Killian Road, Pembroke, is charged with destroying physical evidence, criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th, resisting arrest, and obstructing governmental administration. Deputy Jeremiah Gechell and Deputy Alexander Hadsall conducted a traffic stop on Dellinger Avenue, Batavia, at 1:41 a.m. on June 21. During the traffic stop, deputies identified Patterson as a backseat passenger. The deputies were aware of warrants for the arrest of Patterson. While attempting to take Patterson into custody, Patterson allegedly resisted arrest and fought with the deputies. Once he was taken into custody, a further investigation with the assistance of Deputy James Stack and K-9 Razor, a controlled substance was allegedly recovered from the vehicle. Patterson had allegedly tried to destroy the controlled substance just prior to his arrest. Patterson was held pending arraignment.

Jacob W. Patterson, 27, of Killian Road, Pembroke, was arrested on a warrant out of City Court. The warrant stems from an incident on April 24 where Patterson was charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs, obstructing governmental administration 2nd and four counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. During that incident, Patterson allegedly ran from and fought with officers as they attempted to take him into custody. He was issued an appearance ticket. On May 10, a warrant was issued after Patterson failed to appear in court. Patterson was located on a traffic stop and arrested on the warrant on June 21. He was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. The arrest was handled by Officer Richard Messmer.

Gerald Lawrence Smith, 37, of Walnut Street, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance (degree not specified), moving from lane unsafely, speed not reasonable and prudent, and criminal use of drug paraphernalia.  Smith was reportedly involved in a motor vehicle accident at 10:18 p.m. on June 25 on Byron Road, Stafford. According to an investigation by Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush and Deputy Nicholas Charmoun, Smith's vehicle went off the roadway and into a wooded area. Following the accident, Smith was allegedly found in possession of cocaine, scales, and baggies for packaging. Smith was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Nekia Drio Newton, 47, of Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 3rd, signal less than 100 feet, and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle 3rd. Newton was stopped by Deputy Jeremiah Gechell at 11:49 p.m. on June 28 on West Main Street in the City of Batavia. During the stop, Newton allegedly admitted to possession of a controlled substance.  Newton was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Nicholas C. Kingdollar, 27, of Batavia, was arrested on a warrant stemming from charges of criminal mischief 4th and harassment 2nd. Kingdollar is accused of being involved in a disturbance on April 15 at an undisclosed location in Batavia, where he allegedly damaged property and pushed another person. Officers were unable to locate him, and a warrant was issued. On June 22, Kingdollar was located and arrested. He was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance pending his next court appearance.

Jaqulyn A. Dueppengiesser, 39, of Perry, was arrested on June 22 on a pair of warrants out of City Court. The first warrant stems from an investigation on April 20 where Dueppengiesser was initially arrested for petit larceny, after allegedly stealing merchandise from a local business. She was issued an appearance ticket and was to appear in Batavia City Court at a later date. Dueppengiesser allegedly failed to appear, and an arrest warrant was issued. She was arrested on the warrant on May 24 and arraigned in City Court, where she was released on her own recognizance. She allegedly failed to appear again, and a bench warrant was issued on June 15. On June 22, Dueppengiesser was arrested on that warrant and arraigned in City Court. The second warrant initially stems from a traffic stop on Feb. 19, where Dueppengiesser was allegedly found to be in possession of a narcotic. She was charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance 5th. She was arraigned and released under the supervision of Genesee Justice. On May 1, a bench warrant was issued after Dueppengiesser allegedly failed to comply with a court-ordered program. She was arrested on that warrant on May 24 and released on her own recognizance. Another bench warrant was issued on June 15 after she allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arrested on that warrant on June 22. Dueppengiesser was arraigned in City Court and remanded to the Genesee County Jail. The arrests were handled by Officer Andrew Mruczek.

Andrew D. Beedham, 37, of Batavia, is charged with harassment 2nd. The arrest is the result of an investigation into a disturbance where Beedham allegedly hit another person. During his arrest, Beedham was allegedly found to be in possession of a narcotic. He was charged with an additional count of criminal possession of a controlled substance 7th. Beedham was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance. 

Jennifer J. Hogan, 32, of Rochester, is charged with two counts of bail jumping 3rd and one count of bail jumping 2nd. Hogan was arrested on June 27. She was already in custody at the Genesee County Jail after a previous arrest on June 15 on three bench warrants. The bail-jumping charges stem from those three cases. She was arraigned in City Court and remanded to jail.

Breanna E. Brummond, 32, was arrested on two bench warrants. Brummond was arrested on June 27 on warrants out of City Court. The warrants stem from two separate incidents on Feb. 3 where Brummond was charged with petit larceny and criminal trespass 3rd. Brummond was issued appearance tickets in both cases and released. She allegedly failed to appear, and two warrants were issued on Feb. 14. Brummond was arrested on both warrants on April 5. She was arraigned and released. April 20, warrants were issued again after she allegedly failed to appear. Brummond was arrested on those warrants on June 27 and arraigned. She was remanded to the custody of the Genesee County Jail and is due back in court at a later date. The arrest was handled by Officer Kevin Defelice. Brummond was also arrested by the Sheriff's Office and charged with bail jumping 2nd. She is accused of failure to appear in City Court.

Shameek T. Taylor, 36, of Bergen, is charged with criminal obstruction of Breathing. Taylor was arrested on June 27, after an investigation into a disturbance on West Main Street. Taylor allegedly placed his hand around the neck of another person and applied pressure, causing their breathing to be obstructed. Taylor was arraigned in City Court and released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to appear back in court at a later date. 

Bill A. Thomas, 63, of Batavia, is charged with open container. Thomas was allegedly found to be in possession of an open alcoholic beverage container on June 21 in a local park. He was issued an appearance ticket and released. 

Billy Joe Budziszewski, 31, of Varysburg, was taken into custody on an arrest warrant issued in City Court. The warrant is the result of an incident on Jan. 1 where Budziszewski allegedly refused to leave a local business. He was charged with trespassing and allegedly fought with officers when they attempted to take him into custody. He was issued an appearance ticket and released. Budziszewski allegedly failed to appear, and a warrant was issued on Jan. 24. He was arrested on the warrant on June 24. 

Dustin T. Forkell, 32, of Ogden, was arrested on two bench warrants. Forkell was taken into custody on June 24. The warrants stem from an incident that led to a charge of criminal possession of stolen property 4th after he was allegedly found in possession of a stolen vehicle. He was additionally charged with false impersonation and petit larceny after he allegedly stole merchandise from a local business and lied to officers about his identity. Forkell was arraigned and ordered to return to court at a later date. 

Brittanee J. Hooten, 34, of Batavia, was taken into custody on an arrest warrant issued by City Court.  Hooten was arrested on June 22. Hooten was originally charged with petit larceny on Sept. 17 after allegedly stealing merchandise from a local business. Hooten was released on an appearance ticket. A warrant was issued on Oct. 20 after Hooten allegedly failed to appear in court. Following her June 22 arrest, Hooten was arraigned and remanded to the Genesee County Jail on $100 cash bail and $200 surety bond. 

Kenyetta D. Culver, 47, of Batavia, was taken into custody on an arrest warrant on June 23. Culver turned herself into Batavia PD on a warrant issued by City Court. The warrant is the result of a traffic stop on Feb. 12 where Culver was issued a misdemeanor traffic ticket for operating a vehicle with a suspended registration. The warrant was issued on June 14 after Culver allegedly failed to appear in court. She was arraigned in City Court, where she pled guilty and was assessed a fine. 

William Avant Lewis, 37, of Riley Street, Buffalo, is charged with bail jumping (degree not specified). Lewis is accused of failure to appear in Batavia Town Court. He was held pending arraignment. 

Dontaya Nell Kyles, 31, of Jessamine Street, Macon, Ga., is charged with bail jumping 2nd. Kyles is accused of failure to appear in Town of Batavia Court on a grand larceny 3rd charge and then failing to appear on her reappearance date. She was arrested and ordered held on $10,000 bail.

Amber Lynne Westenberger, 32, of Loomis Road, Farmington, is charged with bail jumping 2nd. Westenberger was held pending arraignment.

Cain Alexander Catino, 51, of South Swan Street, Batavia, is charged with grand larceny 4th. Cantino is accused of stealing a wallet while at Batavia Downs on June 25 at 10:30 p.m. He was processed at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket.

Lester Shakayla Ebony Deas, 25, of Affinity Lane, Rochester, is charged with petit larceny. Deas is accused of stealing from an undisclosed location (the Sheriff's Office withheld the information) on Veterans Memorial Drive in the Town of Batavia at 6:27 p.m. on June 27. Deas was issued an appearance ticket. UPDATE: The Batavian submitted a FOIL request for the name of the store. It is Old Navy.

Pablo Viera, 44, no known address, is charged with criminal mischief 4th and criminal possession of a weapon 4th. Viera is accused of using a wooden tire knocker to strike the side of a Kenworth semi-truck multiple times, causing dents in the side door at 7:35 p.m. on June 25. Viera was released on an appearance ticket.

Joseph Gerard Eyer, 75, of Cowen Road, Piffard, is charged with grand larceny 4th. Eyer is accused of stealing a purse that contained a mobile phone and multiple credit cards at 5:15 p.m. on June 23 while at Target. He was issued an appearance ticket.

Mark Louis Frongetta, 53, of Park Road, Batavia, is charged with criminal possession of a weapon 3rd and menacing 2nd. Frongetta is accused of threatening another person with a weapon making the person fear for his life at a location on Park Road at 8:44 p.m., July 1. Frongetta was held pending arraignment. 

Francis Jermey Fuest, 44, of South Main Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater, and speeding. Fuest was stopped at 12:14 a.m. on May 25 on Clinton Street Road, Batavia, by Deputy Mason Schultz. Fuest was arraigned on the charges on July 1 and released on an appearance ticket.

Maurice Richard McCoy, 70, of North Street, Batavia, is charged with DWI and driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. McCoy was stopped by Deputy Zachary Hoy in the parking lot of Walmart at 8:38 p.m. on July 2. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Andrew Scott Hartman, 40, of Route 78, Java Center, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .08 greater, and inadequate headlamps. Hartman was stopped at 12:13 a.m. on July 2 on Clinton Street Road, Stafford, by Deputy Ryan Mullen. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Austin F. Buzard, 25, no known address, is charged with assault 2nd and aggravated criminal contempt. Buzard was arrested by State Police in connection with an incident reported at 8:30 p.m. on July 3 in the Town of Stafford. He was held in custody. No further details released.

Andrew R. Bastiano, 36, of Batavia, is charged with felony DWI. Bastiano was stopped at 12:39 a.m. on July 3 in the Town of Elba by State police. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Paula A. Kingdollar, 54, of Pavilion, is charged with petit larceny. Kingdollar is accused of stealing in the Town of Batavia at 1:33 p.m. on June 2. She was arrested by State Police and released on an appearance ticket. No further details released. 

A 17-year-old was arrested by State Police and charged with petit larceny in connection with a theft reported at 5:17 p.m. on July 2 in the Town of Darien. The youth was released on an appearance ticket.

Rudy Lebron Cartagena, 33, of Niagara Falls, is charged with felony DWI. Cartagena was stopped at 5:25 a.m. on June 30 in the Town of Alabama by State Police. He was released on an appearance ticket.

Village of Corfu unveils new welcome signs created by Pembroke students

By Howard B. Owens
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Ileana Draper and Mayor Tom Sargent with one of the new Village of Corfu entryway signs that she and her classmates at Pembroke High School created for the village.
Photo by Howard Owens.

The welcome mat, in the form of entry signs into the village, will be a little brighter in Corfu beginning this summer.

After 15 years, the entry signs along the main thoroughfares into Corfu have become a bit faded, so the village board invited art students at Pembroke High School to design and paint new signs.

They wanted color, flowers, especially tulips, and a welcoming message.

That's what they got, and students involved in the project said they got to work on an exciting, meaningful project.

"It was a cool experience because we could kind of shape how things in our community look," said Kayla Reynolds, who just finished her senior year and is heading off in the fall to Roberts Wesleyan. "It was a fun project. We could be creative and try to represent our town in the best way possible."

Junior Sophie Crandall is thinking about making a career in art so the project was especially fascinating to her, she said.

"I just think it was really interesting getting to do such a big project with very little restriction," she said. "We kind of got to do whatever we wanted with those designs."

Fifteen years ago, a group of Pembroke students designed the outgoing signs, and when the village's maintenance supervisor Norm Waff noticed the signs were showing their age, he approached the village board about designing and painting a new set of signs.

Waff said he thinks the students are really talented and did a wonderful job.

"I think that it really gives the students an opportunity to get involved in activities of the village around Pembroke," Waff said.

Deputy Mayor Michael Doktor said the students were given only a little direction -- incorporate village history, which means flowers.

"Other than that, it was just really leaving it up to the kids' imagination and their creativity," Doktor said.

About tulips: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there were five greenhouses in Corfu. The florists mainly grew tulips and the tiny village was one of the largest exporters of tulips in the nation. Changing tastes and the Great Depression led to the eventual demise of the tulip, but a couple of the greenhouses survived until just the past decade or so (both were heavily damaged by the 2009 tornado that blew through town) by growing mums.

Mayor Tom Sargent said the project both helps beautify the community as well as builds community spirit.

"This is something that keeps the kids involved in our community," Sargent said. "It's a way for them to give back. Now every time that they come into the village, even 10 years from now, the signs will still be here. They can say, 'I did that sign.'"

The fact that the students knew everybody entering the village over the next 10 or 15 years would see the signs really motivated them to do their best work, Reynolds said. 

"We really wanted it to be the best quality possible because people are gonna see it for -- we don't really know how many years -- and everyone that drives into Corfu is going to see these signs. We wanted them to be as finished and as professional looking as possible."

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Kayla Reynolds with the sign she was most involved with creating.
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Sophie Crandall with the sign she was most involved with creating.
Photo by Howard Owens.
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Photo by Howard Owens
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Jonah Martin and Lily Martin with Mayor Tom Sargent.

Photo: Stella is missing in East Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens
missing dog

Stella is only six months old and she's missing in East Pembroke.

She took off on her own at about 3:30 p.m. on Sunday while at Crosby's in East Pembroke.

Stella is a Mastiff, weighs 70 pounds, and is described as "skittish."

She is wearing a pink collar. 

If you find her, call Jeff at 585-500-1436.

UPDATE June 27, 10:15 p.m.: Stella is found safe.  The owners were putting up a trail cam where she was last seen, and she walked up to them at that location.

Two men seriously injured when trucks collide in eastbound lane of Route 5 in Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens
main road accident pembroke june 2023

Two young men were seriously injured on Thursday evening when their respective pickup trucks collided head-on in the area of 232 Main Road, Town of Pembroke at about 5:31 p.m.

Zachary Miller-Barillari, 19, of Williamsville, was airlifted by Mercy Flight to ECMC and Jacob Brainard, 25, of Browmansville, was transported by Mercy EMS to ECMC.  

According to the Genesee County Sheriff's Office, the preliminary investigation indicates that Brainard was driving a 2019 Dodge Ram eastbound on Route 5, and Miller-Barillari was traveling west in a 2002 Ford F-350.

Brainard's vehicle was apparently in the middle of the roadway and took corrective action to get back into the eastbound lane of travel. Miller-Barillari directed his pickup truck into the eastbound lane of travel. 

The two trucks collided head-on in the eastbound lane and then continued off the south shoulder of the road where they came to rest in a ditch.

Both operators required extrication from their vehicles.

Pembroke Fire and Indian Falls Fire responded to the scene along with Mercy EMS.  Corfu Fire assisted with traffic control and a landing zone for Mercy Flight.

The cause of the accident is still under investigation by the Crash Management Team.  Patrol officers assisted at the scene.

Previously: Accident reported on Main Road, Pembroke

Photos by Howard Owens.

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main road accident pembroke june 2023
main road accident pembroke june 2023
main road accident pembroke june 2023
main road accident pembroke june 2023

Accident reported on Main Road, Pembroke

By Howard B. Owens

A possible three-car accident is reported in the area of 249 Main Road, Pembroke.

It may be blocking.

Unknown injuries.

The caller was a passerby and not involved.

Pembroke Fire and Indian Falls Fire along with Mercy EMS dispatched.

UPDATE 5:18 p.m.: A chief on scene reports, not blocking. Three vehicles. Debris in the roadway. Checking on injuries.

UPDATE 5:21 p.m.: Heavy extrication required with two vehicles. Corfu requested to the scene to set up a landing zone for Mercy Flight.

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