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Law and Order: Le Roy woman with two prior felony DWIs charged with third offense

By Billie Owens

Heather M. Spiegel, 45, of Le Roy, is charged with: felony driving while intoxicated -- third offense, a Class D felony; aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the first degree; operating a vehicle without an ignition interlock device; consumption of alcohol in a motor vehicle; and having an unregistered motor vehicle. Spiegel was arrested at 11:38 a.m. on Sept. 28 after a traffic stop on Route 19 in the Town of Covington by Wyoming County Sheriff's Sgt. Colin Reagan. She was stopped for having an expired vehicle registration and then allegedly found to have a revoked NYS driver's license from multiple DWI-related revocations. Spiegel was also allegedly found in possession of an open bottle of vodka. Following field sobriety testing, she was arrested for DWI. She then refused to submit to a chemical test. She has three prior convictions for DWI in the past 10 years (two felonies; one misdemeanor). Spiegel was arraigned in Town of Covington Court. Due to having two prior felony convictions, Spiegel was held without bail in Wyoming County Jail until her scheduled court appearance Oct. 21 in Town of Covington Court.

Terry Michael Martino, 64, of Gibson Street, Oakfield, is charged with second-degree harassment. It is alleged that at 6:39 p.m. on Oct. 1 on Gibson Street in Oakfield that Martino shoved another person during a domestic incident. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Oakfield Court on Oct. 14. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Travis DeMuth, assisted by Deputy Brock Cummins.

Kyle Gilbert Harling, 25, of Bromley Road, Churchville, is charged with: driving while intoxicated -- first offense; DWI with a BAC of .18 percent of higher; and failure to keep right. On Oct.1 at 3:34 p.m. on Warboys Road in Byron, Harling was the subject of a traffic stop for alleged vehicle and traffic violations. He was the suspect of an erratic operator complaint received by the Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center. Harling was processed at the Genesee County Jail and issued appearance tickets to be in Byron Town Court on Oct. 21. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Andrew Mullen, assisted by Deputy Travis DeMuth.

Benjamin D. Seekins, 30, of Batavia, was arrested by Livingston County Sheriff's deputies on Sept. 21 and charged with: driving while intoxicated; aggravated driving while intoxicated -- with a BAC of .18 percent or more; and failure to keep right. Seekins will reply to charges in Avon Town Court on a later date.

Brian D. McInnis, 26, of Le Roy, is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree. He was arrested on Sept. 25 after a traffic stop on Route 19 in the Town of Warsaw. He was stopped by Wyoming County Sheriff's deputies for a headlight violation and having an expired NYS vehicle inspection sticker. During a roadside investigation, it was found that McInnis had a suspended license due to failure to answer a prior summons. He was released to a third party and will answer the charges on Oct. 21 in the Town of Warsaw Court. Wyoming County Sheriff's Deputy Aaron Chase handled the case.

Law and Order: Batavia man accused of menacing police officer with a knife

By Billie Owens

Morgan L. Cox, 27, of Batavia (no address provided) (inset photo, left), is charged with: obstruction of governmental administration; menacing a police officer (with a knife), criminal possession of a weapon, unlawful possession of marijuana. At 12:49 a.m. on Sept. 28, Cox was arrested on Central Avenue in Batavia by Batavia Police Officer Peter Post and Officer Arick Perkins. No other details provided. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $15,000 cash or $30,000 bond. He is due in city court this afternoon (Sept. 30).

Falan Janee Young, 27, of Ackerman Street, Rochester, is charged with: criminal possession of narcotic with intent to sell; criminal possession of a narcotic drug; unlawful possession of marijuana; aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle; and having side wings/windows not transparent on her vehicle. She was arrested at 12:37 p.m. on Sept. 26 on Clinton Street Road in Stafford. She was the driver and sole occupant of a vehicle stopped on Route 33 in the Town of Stafford. During the traffic stop, it is alleged that Young was found to be driving while her privilege to do so was suspended. She was later allegedly found in possession of crack cocaine and marijuana. She was arraigned in Stafford Town Court and jailed in lieu of $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 bond. Young is due back in Stafford Town Court on Oct. 1. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Andrew Mullen, assisted by Investigator Ronald Welker.

Shuvon Joanne Williams, 43, of Leopard Street, Rochester, is charged with second-degree harassment. Williams was arrested on Sept. 26 and arraigned at 10:30 a.m. in Batavia City Court following the investigation into a bomb threat made at 3:40 p.m. on April 23 at a medical offices on Bank Street in Batavia. The charge was worked out as part of a plea arrangement. The case was handled by Batavia Police Det. Eric Hill.

Ronald J. Murray, 25, of Wood St., Batavia, is charged with second-degree burglary and petit larceny. He was arrested Sept. 29 on a Batavia City Court warrant stemming from an incident on Aug. 7 on East Main Street Road in Batavia. Murray is accused of entering the dwelling of another person and stealing property. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $15,000 cash or $30,000 bond and is due in court again at a later date. The case was handled by Bataiva Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Sean Wilson.

Derrick Roy Kio, 28, of Broadway Road, Darien, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. Kio was arrested on Sept. 22 after an investigation into an alleged violation of an order of protection at a location of Bank Street in the City of Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on Oct. 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Stephen Quider.

Rae C. Cook, 30, of Jackson Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. Cook was arrested at 11:40 a.m. on Sept. 24 on East Main Street in Batavia, arraigned in Batavia City Court and released on her own recognizance. She is due back in city court on Oct. 10. The case was a handled by Batavia Police Officer Adam Tucker, assisted by Officer Jordan McGinnis.

Kenneth R. Torrico, 31, of Westchester Boulevard, Tonawanda, is charged with: two counts of falsely reporting an incident; petit larceny; and fourth-degree criminal mischief. He was located and arrested on warrants out of Batavia City Court for allegedly falsely reporting two incidents at two addresses on State Street, Batavia. The first was at 1:55 a.m. on June 10; the second was at 3:22 a.m. on June 11. In addition, he had a warrant for petit larceny and fourth-degree criminal mischief. The latter two charges stem from an unspecified incident at 6:38 p.m. on June 7 on Ellicott Street in Batavia. Torrico was arraigned in city court Sept. 26 and is due back there Oct. 3. The cases were handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Dylan L. Bates, 25, of Townline Road, Byron, is charged with: driving while intoxicated with a BAC of .08 percent or more; DWI; leaving the scene of a property damage accident; and moving from lane unsafely. He was arrested at 12:23 a.m. on Sept. 29 after the investigation of a single-car accident in  the Town of Byron. He was released on appearance tickets and is due in Byron Town Court on Oct. 21. The case was handled by Genesee Coumty Sheriff's Deputy Kenneth Quackenbush, assisted by Deputy James Stack.

Brian E. Mack, 35, of Sumner Road, Darien, is accused of: driving while intoxicated with a BAC of .08 percent or more; DWI; operating a mobile phone while operating a motor vehicle; and moving from lane unsafely. At 2:15 a.m. on Sept. 29, Genesee County Sheriff's deputies responded to a report of a vehicle in a ditch at 10537 Alleghany Road, Darien. They arrived on location to find an SUV in a ditch near the Darien Fire Department. They spoke with Mack and after an investigation, he was arrested on the charges, processed at the jail and released on appearance tickets. He is due in Darien Town Court on Oct. 8. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Ryan Young, assisted by Sgt. Ron Meides.

Walter H. Bennett, 29, of Van Aucker Street, Rochester, is charged with: aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree; unlicensed operation; and unlawful possession of marijuana. Bennett was arrested at 6:50 p.m. on Sept. 27 on Oak Street in Batavia following a traffic stop. He was allegedly found to be driving with a suspended driver's license and in possession of marijuana. He was arrested and arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $2,500 cash bail or bond. He is due back in court at a later date. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Christopher Camp.

Jason A. Zajaczkowski, 23, of Royalton Center, Road, Middleport, is charged with criminal possession of marijuana in the fourth degree and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree. He was arrested after a traffic stop investigation into a motor-vehicle accident that occurred at 6:16 p.m. on Sept. 21 on North Street in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Oct. 1. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Peter Post.

Robert N. Tatarka, 71, of Union Street, Batavia, is charged with driving while ability impaired by alcohol. He was arrested after an investigation into a traffic offense complaint where he allegedly drove his vehicle while impaired by alcohol at 7:41 p.m. on Sept. 25 on Union Street in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court on Oct. 30. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Cronmiller, assisted by Officer Sean Wilson.

Jon N. Roblee, 44, of Summit Street, Batavia, is charged with obstructing governmental administration in the second degree. Roblee was arrested and arraigned Sept. 29 in Batavia City Court following a complaint about a disturbance at 9:15 p.m. Sept. 29 on Summit Street. He is due back in city court today, Sept. 30. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Ronald J. Murray, 25, of Wood Street, Batavia, is charged with criminally possessing a hypodermic instrument. Murray was arrested today (Sept. 30) on Jackson Street after an arrest warrant was issued by Batavia City Court. During the arrest on the warrant, the current charge was added. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Sean Wilson, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Daniel S. Kuczka, 75, of Walden Creek Drive, Batavia, is charged with trespassing. He was arrested on a warrant at 11:10 a.m. on Sept. 26 for a trespassing charged filed in Batavia City Court on Sept. 24 and for which he allegedly failed to appear to answer. He is due back in city court Oct. 3. The case was a handled by Batavia Police Officer Adam Tucker, assisted by Officer Jason Davis.

Christopher P. Thomas, 35, of State Street, Batavia, is charged with owning/harboring an unlicensed dog. He was arrested at 5:45 p.m. on Sept. 28 on State Street in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket to be in Batavia City Court on Oct. 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Joshua Girvin.

Byron-Bergen college and career counselor honored with national award

By Billie Owens

Photo: Rob Kaercher at the National Association for College Admissions Counselors at their annual conference in Louisville, Ky.

Submitted photo and press release:

LOUISVILLE, KY. -- On Saturday, Sept. 28, Byron-Bergen College and Career counselor Rob Kaercher accepted the Rising Star Award from the National Association for College Admissions Counselors at their annual conference in Louisville, Ky.

This national award “honors individuals and programs that exemplify excellence and dedication to serving the needs of students in the transition from high school to college."

Kaercher’s position has many aspects from exposing students to a variety of job experiences to helping them complete their college applications.

“I try to help them find a career path that matches their interests,” he said. "I have college and career assessment tools to help with this, but talking to the individual students, reflecting on what brings their interests and what they enjoy in their classes, is the best way. Each student is different. It’s all about personalized attention.”

When asked why Byron-Bergen stood out in the nationwide competition, Kaercher said, “It’s visionary for a small, rural school to have a College and Career counselor. This position is much more prevalent at private schools, public charter schools, and in some suburban and urban schools that have created a college-going culture.

"Byron-Bergen is somewhat unique in that my colleagues in the Counseling Department can focus on the social and emotional development of our students and I can focus on helping with the transition out of high school.

"I hope that we continue to see more rural schools, and schools in general, see the importance of developing a College and Career Center to enhance the school counseling department.”

Another difference between Byron-Bergen and larger districts is the variety of career paths students are interested in.

“This award highlights the transition of students from high school to college, but every year I help students transition to four-year colleges, two-year colleges, military careers, and many students enter directly into the workforce," Kaercher said. "Each of these students is valuable and I hope that I can help them leave high school ready to fulfill their goals.”

“We are extremely lucky to have Rob on our team,” said Byron-Bergen High School Principal Pat McGee. “It’s not enough just to have a College and Career Center. It needs to be in the hands of a dedicated professional counselor with the knowledge, connections, and passion for helping students map out their futures. This is a well-deserved honor.”

“I couldn’t do my job without the flexibility and enthusiasm of our amazing faculty and staff,” Kaercher said. “They meet with students, join field trips, write letters of recommendation – their support allows me to connect the dots.”

In addition to the national award, Kaercher received the Rising Star Award from the New York State Association for College Admission Counseling in August.

I think this is one of the best jobs in the world because I really enjoy working with the students, staff, and faculty,” Kaercher said. “These students have dreams and goals. They are curious and want to explore. That really keeps my job fun and interesting.”

Car on fire after driver struck a deer in Byron

By Billie Owens

A car is on fire and flames are shooting out from under the hood after a car vs. deer accident in Byron. The location is 6609 Byron Road, between Warboys and Tower Hill roads. Byron and South Byron fire departments are responding.

UPDATE 8:55 p.m.: Elba Fire Department is called to the scene for mutual aid. Route 237 is to be shut down at Tower Hill and Warboys roads.

Bags of dead livestock found in cornfield in Byron

By Howard B. Owens

The Sheriff's Office is investigating the strange case of bags full of dead animals being left in a cornfield near the intersection of Merriman Road and Cook Road in the Town of Byron.

With little information to go on, the Sheriff's Office is asking the public's assistance to help investigators determine where the animals came from and why the remains wound up where they did.

Deputies responded Friday after receiving a call about the garbage bags in the field. Deputies located several bags filled with dead animals, including pigs, two small calves, along with other animals.

It's not clear how the animals died.

Animal Control officers along with investigators from Lollypop Farm Humane Society in Monroe County and Orleans County Dog Control are assisting in the investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Sheriff's Office at (585) 343-5000.

'Kickin' Cancer': soccer players raise $2,300 for Wilmont Cancer Institute and Crossroads House

By Billie Owens

Above, Byron-Bergen Girls Varsity Soccer Team.

Submitted photos and press release:

Bergen -- On Saturday, Sept. 14, the Byron-Bergen and Attica soccer teams joined forces to raise money for good causes.

Modified, JV, and varsity girls and boys faced off for a full day of competition at the Byron-Bergen Soccer Stadium.

All the teams played hard, but the ultimate winners were the Wilmont Cancer Institute and Crossroads House. The two organizations will split the more than $2,300 in proceeds.

“We all love being part of the charity event, the whole team does,” said Byron-Bergen senior and varsity co-captain Miriam Tardy. “Honestly, the hardest part is choosing which type of cancer to support. That’s why this year we chose to support all cancer research.”

The student-led event began at 9:30 a.m. and continued until the close of the last game, which began nine hours later.

The annual fundraiser to support cancer research was launched almost a decade ago by the varsity girls soccer team in support of a teammates’ loved one.

Although those players have long since left the Byron-Bergen soccer fields, the event has grown into a community tradition, raising thousands of dollars annually and more than $12,000 since its inception. Free and open to the public, money is raised through donations, T-shirt and food sales, and vendors.

“I love this fundraiser,” said senior and co-captain Kelsey Fuller. “It’s a great opportunity to show who we are as people and really give back to the community.”

“This is my sixth year participating,” said senior and co-captain Melissa MacCowan. “It’s about raising money, but also about raising awareness.”

This year, the teams decided to expand their philanthropic efforts to include Crossroads House in Batavia. The organization provides hospice services to residents of Genesee and Wyoming counties free of charge.

“We have been supporting cancer research for years and really wanted to find ways to support differentparts of the community,” Fuller. said

“Our athletes take great pride in giving back to the community,” said Athletic Director Richard Hannan. “These are both wonderful organizations and I’m always impressed by the teams’ dedication.”

Below, Byron-Bergen Girls Junior Varsity Soccer Team.

Law and Order: Man accused of robbery at Speedway is jailed without bail

By Billie Owens

Dustin Wayne Bogue, 37, "address unknown," (inset photo, right) is charged with: first-degree robbery; second-degree menacing; criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree; and criminal possession of stolen property in the fifth degree. At 1:51 a.m. on Sept. 14, Batavia police responded to Speedway at 204 W. Main St. in Batavia for the report of a robbery. Bogue was later arrested on the charges following an investigation. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed without bail. He is due in Batavia City Court at 11 a.m. on Sept. 19. The case was investigated by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Peter Post.

Taylor S. Wyder, 25, of Alleghany Road, Alabama, is charged with unlawfully dealing with a child in the first degree, a Class A misdemeanor. Following the investigation into a complaint of an adult serving alcohol to a minor at 1 a.m. on Sept. 16 on Alleghnay Road in Alabama, Wyder was arrested, then released on his own recognizance. An order of protection was issued against Wyder favor of the victim. Wyder is due in Alabama Town Court on Oct. 3. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kevin Forsyth.

Colby L. Ellis, 30, of West Academy Street, Albion, is charged with second-degree criminal contempt. Ellis was arrested at 4:35 p.m. on Sept. 13 on Apollo Drive in Batavia. He allegedly violated a stay-away order of protection during a traffic stop in the parking lot. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court at held on unspecified bail. He was due in Batavia City Court this afternoon (Sept. 16). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Schnell Alexandria Ogletree, 30, of Eagle Lane, Canillus, is charged with: aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree; driving while ability impaired by drugs; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree; aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree; speeding; and unlawful possession of marijuana in the second degree. At 9:14 a.m. on Sept. 14 on Clinton Street Road in Stafford following the alleged observation of a vehicle and traffic observation. She was subsequently arrested on the charges. She was taken to Genesee County Jail and evaluated by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Richard Schildwaster, a certified drug recognition expert. She was issued appearance tickets and is due in Stafford Town Court on Oct. 1. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Brock Cummins, assisted by Deputy Ryan DeLong, and also aided by Deputy Ryan DeLong and Deputy Chris Erion.

Jesse James Smoody, 43, of 8th Court, Westfield, Wis., is charged with aggravated driving while intoxicated -- with a BAC of .18 percent or more, and DWI. At 1:13 a.m. on Sept. 15, Smoody was arrested on Byron Holley Road in Byron following the welfare check on a male who had fallen off his morocycle in the parking lot of a convenience store. He was arrested and released on appearance tickets for Oct. 21 in Byron Town Court. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore.

Matthew C. Olcott, 40, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of drugs and criminal use of drug paraphernalia in the second degree. Olcott was arrested at 1:16 p.m. on Sept. 12 on Osterhout Avenue in Batavia after a search allegedly led to the discovery of narcotics paraphernalia. Olcott was taken to Batavia Police Department and processed, then released on an appearance ticket for Sept. 17 in Batavia City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Miah Stevens, assisted by Officer Adam Tucker. 

Video: Open house in South Byron for NextEra solar energy project

By Howard B. Owens
Video Sponsor
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NextEra Energy Resources held an open house at the South Byron Fire Hall on Wednesday, giving area residents an opportunity to learn more about a proposed 1,500- to 2,000-acre, 280-megawatt solar energy project in the Town of Byron.

Project Manager Keddy Chandran discussed the project with The Batavian during the open house (video).

Byron-Bergen Sports Boosters' Day of Soccer is Sept. 14, benefits two charities

By Billie Owens

The Byron-Bergen Sports Boosters fourth annual Day of Soccer (Homecoming) will be held on Saturday, Sept. 14.

This is also the eighth annual fundraising event of the Byron-Bergen Girls Varsity Soccer Team.

Girls' teams and boys' teams will play soccer all day. There will also be gift basket raffles, 50/50 raffles, along with concessions. Proceeds from this event will go to the Wilmot Cancer Institute and, added this year, Crossroads House.

The games will be played at the Byron-Bergen Soccer Stadium, 6917 W. Bergen Road, Bergen.

The schedule is:

  • 9:30 a.m. -- Boys Modified
  • 11 a.m. -- Girls Modified
  • 12:30 p.m. -- Boys Junior Varsity
  • 2:30 p.m. -- Boys Varsity
  • 4:30 p.m. -- Girls Junior Varsity
  • 6:30 p.m. -- Girls Varsity

To make a monetary donation, make check payable to Byron-Bergen Central School and mail to Byron-Bergen High School, 6917 W. Bergen Road, Bergen NY 14416; or call (585) 297-3352.

Donations of gift baskets are welcome.

Contacts are:

Diane MacCowan -- (585) 503-2081 -- dmaccowan@yahoo.com

Tammy Fuller -- (585) 297-3352 -- tfullerstamps@yahoo.com

Alyson Tardy -- (585) 414-8031 -- atardy@bbschools.org

Open house is Sept. 10 to learn more about solar energy facility planned in Byron

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The community is cordially invited to attend an informational open house Tuesday, Sept. 10 for the Excelsior Energy Center, a 280-megawatt solar energy generating facility with 20 megawatts of energy storage proposed in the Town of Byron.

At the open house to be held at the South Byron fire hall, information about the project will be displayed on large poster boards.

Rather than a structured, formal presentation, the open house will provide many opportunities for any member of the public to speak directly with project representatives and subject-matter experts about questions they may have.

The public is invited to arrive anytime between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., or 5 and 7 p.m.

Please arrive anytime during the hours above. Information will be provided and questions will be answered throughout the duration of these sessions. Each session will follow the same open house-style format containing the same information.

South Byron Volunteer Fire Department
7389 Route 237
South Byron

Upcoming events at the Byron-Bergen Public Library

By Billie Owens
Here are items of note occurring in September at the Byron-Bergen Public Library, located at 13 S. Lake Ave. in Bergen.
  • The Bergen Historical Society will meet beginning at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 5th, in the Library Meeting Room. The public is invited to hear a presentation by Gina Schelemanow on the history of the Cook family of Byron and Clarendon. Refreshments will be served following the program. 
  • Maker Space Saturday is 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sept. 7th. Come and try an experiment! No registration needed.
  • Monthly Book Discussion Group meets at 7 p.m. on Sept. 12th. This month's book is "The Little Paris Bookshop." Come and enjoy the fun.
  • Toddler/Preschool Storytime will run Fridays starting at 10:30 a.m. beginning Sept 13th. Join Miss Bailey for stories, a craft and a treat! For ages 2-5, but younger children are welcome with a parent/guardian. Registration appreciated.
Phone is 494-1120.

County Highway Department announces road work

By Billie Owens

The county Highway Department announced that the Sumner Road bridge over Elevenmile Creek in Darien is now restricted to alternating one-way traffic with a temporary signal. The change took effect yesterday. This bridge is between Route 77 and Harlow Road.

The public will be notified when the road reopens to both lanes of traffic.

The Highway Department also announced that the Caswell Road Bridge between Walkers Corners Road and Cockram Road in Byron will be closed effective Thursday, Aug. 22nd through Oct. 4th.

Volunteers successfully complete training at GC Fire Training Center

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and press release:

Thirteen students successfully completed the Apparatus Operator – Pump program on June 15 at the Genesee County Fire Training Center.  

Building on the knowledge and skills obtained through the Basic Exterior Firefighter Operations (BEFO) program (photo above), the 24-hour Apparatus Operator – Pump course (photo below) offers fire service personnel the knowledge and skills essential for pump operations, hydraulics and friction loss, pump control and accessories, fire streams, pumper practices, pumping from draft and pump evolutions and using the fire pump at the fire hydrant. 

Genesee County participants included:  

TOWN OF BATAVIA

  • William J. Allen Jr. 
  • Josh K. Boyle
  • Thomas M. Garlock 
  • Clayton A. Gorski 
  • Thomas E. Marlowe 
  • Bryan A. Moscicki

EAST PEMBROKE

  • Matthew N. Allen 
  • Samantha M. Cavalieri

One of five modules required to earn  the Fire Officer 1 certification, the Company Training & Community Risk Reduction course covers the basic responsibilities of the fire officer as they relate to community relations, company-level building inspections and community risk reduction.

Additionally, this course provides potential fire officers with the basic knowledge of how to determine company-level training needs, teaching from a lesson plan, documentation of training activities, and different methods to conduct company-level training. 

Twenty-two students recently completed the 12-hour Company Training & Community Risk Reduction module offered at the Genesee County Fire Training Center on June 19 (photo below).

Genesee County participants included:  

ALEXANDER

  • Anthony R. Johnston 
  • Sean McPhee

TOWN OF BATAVIA

  • Josh K. Boyle
  • Thomas M. Garlock
  • Clayton A. Gorski
  • Conor P. Wilkes

BETHANY

  • Peggy Johnson 
  • Gregory Johnson
  • Richard Klunder III
  • Christopher M. Page
  • Corrie A. Rombaut
  • Kyle L. Rombaut

BYRON

  • Victor  L. Flanagan

CORFU

  • Dean T. Eck
  • Tyler G. Lang
  • Lori Ann Santini
  • Daniel P. Smith

ELBA

  • Bradley R. Chaddock
  • Michael J. Pfendler
  • Michael Schad Jr.

LE ROY

  • Thomas E. Feeley

One of five modules required to earn  the Fire Officer 1 certification, the Leadership & Supervisory Module was offered at the Genesee County Fire Training Center earlier this year. 

This module, consisting of 15 hours of instruction, provided current and potential fire officers with a fundamental knowledge of the duties, responsibilities and leadership required to be successful as a fire officer.

Students were presented the basic responsibilities of the fire officer as they relate to human resource management as well as common administrative functions.

Twenty-eight students completed the 12-hour Company Training & Community Risk program representing nine county fire companies.  

Genesee County participants included:  

ALABAMA

  • David J. Kinney 

ALEXANDER 

  • Anthony R. Johnston 
  • Sean McPhee

TOWN OF BATAVIA

  • Josh K. Boyle
  • Thomas M. Garlock 
  • Clayton A. Gorski
  • Scott T. Maloy
  • Conor P. Wilkes 

BETHANY

  • Gregory W. Johnson 
  • Richard, Klunder III
  • Timothy J. McCabe
  • Christopher M. Page
  • Kyle L. Rombaut

BYRON

  • Victor L. Flanagan

CORFU

  • Dean T. Eck
  • Gregory S. Lang 
  • Tyler G. Lang
  • Lori Ann Santini
  • Daniel P. Smith 

DARIEN

  • Aaron Elliott

ELBA

  • Jennifer A. Cardinalli 
  • Nicholas J. Esten
  • Timothy Hoffarth 
  • Christopher P. Lane 
  • Michael J. Pfendler 
  • Michael Schad Jr. 
  • George M. Underhill 

LE ROY

  • Thomas E. Feeley

Happy 100th birthday on Aug. 10, 2019 to former Pavilion resident Neva Hettrick

By Billie Owens

Neva Hettrick (née Harmer), formerly of Pavilion, will be turning 100 on Aug. 10, 2019.

She now resides at the Morgan Estates in Geneseo.

They will be having a birthday celebration for her on Friday, Aug. 9.

Her niece, Carol Hettrick Elliott, visited her recently and said she does not recognize a lot of people anymore, nor is she aware of much of what goes on around her, but her family is proud of her reaching the year of her centennial.

Neva was born in Batavia to Frank and Bertha Williams Harmer. Her family lived in Byron before moving to Pavilion in the 1930s.

She graduated from the Pavilion Central School in 1937.

James Hettrick caught her eye and they were married in 1940. They traveled all over the country during World War ll because James was stationed at various Army bases as a meat inspector.

Neva was well known in Pavilion because she worked in the U.S. Post Office for many years. At the same time, James was the superintendent of the Highway Department, so everyone knew him, too.

They didn't  have any children but they had many friends and were well respected in the community.

Throughout her life, she loved to read and grow flowers and she crocheted many beautiful items.

Neva has been widowed for about 18 years. However, even though it has been hard for her, she has persevered and now she has reached this important milestone.

Power lines are down across Warboys Road in Byron

By Billie Owens

Electricity lines are down across the roadway on Warboys Road in Byron, half a mile east of Route 237. Byron and South Byron fire departments are responding.

UPDATE 3:56 p.m.: The address is 6418 Warboys Road.

UPDATE 4:50 p.m.: The eastbound lane is open. A cable wire across the roadway is "still connected at both end," says the scene commander. The cable company is called.

Byron's annual Heritage Festival is Saturday

By Billie Owens

The Town of Byron annual Heritage Festival will be held on Saturday, July 27, at Fireman’s Park (behind the Byron Fire Hall on Route 262).

There will be:

  • A fishing derby starting at 8 a.m. at Trestle Park;
  • 5K starting at 8:30 a.m.;
  • Parade at 1 p.m.;
  • Town-wide garage sales;
  • Craft vendors;
  • Baked goods sale;
  • Cruise in;
  • Chicken BBQ
  • Live bands starting at 2 p.m.;
  • And fireworks at dark!

You won’t want to miss it!  Visit www.byronny.comor call the Town Clerk, Debra Buck-Leaton, at 585-548-7123, ext. 10, for details.

Three GC men promoted in NY Army National Guard

By Billie Owens

Major General Ray Shields, the Adjutant General for the State of New York, announces the promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

  • Peter Saxman, from Corfu, and assigned to the 222nd Military Police Company received a promotion to the rank of Private First Class.
  • Zachary Cratsley, from Byron, and assigned to the Company A, 2-108th Infantry received a promotion to the rank of Specialist.
  • Travis Lambert, from Byron, and assigned to the Headquarters Service Company, 642nd Support Battalion received a promotion to the rank of Private.

Army National Guard promotions are based on overall performance, attitude, leadership ability, and development potential.

These promotions additionally recognize the best qualified Soldiers and attract and retain the highest caliber Citizen Soldiers for a career in the New York Army National Guard.

For more information about the New York Army National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov or www.1800goguard.com

The New York National Guard (New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs) is the state's executive agency responsible to the Governor for managing New York's Military Forces, which consists of nearly 20,000 members of the New York Army National Guard, the New York Air National Guard, the New York Naval Militia and the New York Guard.

Law and Order: Pair accused of stealing a car and possibly other items, and possessing drugs

By Billie Owens

Kyle Allan Hawley, 29, of South Lake Street, Bergen, and Marissa A. Brennan, 26, of Townline Road, Byron, are both charged with: second-degree grand larceny, a felony; and four misdemeanors -- criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument, criminally using drug paraphernalia, and fourth-degree criminal mischief. In addition, Hawley alone is charged with aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree. They were arrested in the early morning hours of July 11. They allegedly stole a vehicle on West Main Street Road in Batavia and were later observed in the Village of Bergen but left prior to the arrival of a Genesee County Sheriff's patrol. They were allegedly found in the Village of Churchville still inside the vehicle and in possession of drugs, paraphernalia and possibly other stolen items. They also reportedly did damage to the inside of the vehicle prior to it being recovered. The investigation is ongoing. Both defendants were arraigned in Town of Batavia Court on July 12 and then put in jail. Hawley's bail was set at $15,000 cash or bond; Brennan's bail was set at $10,000 cash or bond. They are due back in Batavia Town Court on July 22. The incident was investigated by deputies Kevin McCarthy and David Moore, assisted by Deputy Richard Schildwaster, Sgt. Michael Lute; the GC Drug Task Force, Investigator Chris Parker, Chief Deputy Joseph Graff, and members of the Monroe County Sheriff's Office.

Solomon Jason Wood, 40, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree assault -- intentionally causing serious physical injury, and criminal contempt in the first degree -- violating an order of protection by having physical contact. Wood was arrested following a physical domestic altercation at 3 a.m. on July 9 on North Spruce Street. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $10,000 cash or bond. He was due in  city court July 11. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Marc Lawrence, assisted by Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk.

Matthew Scott Eggleston, 29, of West State Street, Albion, is charged with: felony driving while ability impaired by drugs; aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the third degree; speeding in a 55 mph zone; and having an obstructed driver's view. At 1:38 p.m. on July 13, Eggleston was arrested on Quaker Hill Road in Elba. He was previously convicted of a DWI offense within the last 10 years. He was arraigned in Batavia Town Court and released under supervision of Genesee Justice. He is due in Elba Town Court on July 24. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Mathew Clor, assisted by Deputy Kevin Forsyth.

Jason Lee Johnson, 36, of Highland Park, Batavia, is charged with operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs, criminally using drug paraphernalia, and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree. At 12:47 a.m. on June 29, Batavia police responded to a drive-thru of a restaurant on East Main Street in Batavia where it was reported that a male was passed out at the wheel. Johnson was initially issued a traffic ticket for the DWAI-drugs charge due to his being transported to a local hospital for care. On July 3, Officer Stephen Cronmiller issued Johnson appearance tickets for the other related charges. He is due in Batavia City Court on July 17. The case was investigated by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins, assisted by Officer Mitchell Cowen.

Sabrena L. Randall, 43, of Maple Street, Batavia, is charged with: circumventing the required interlock device -- operating a vehicle without the device; aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree; unsafe backing of a vehicle; operation of a motor vehicle by an unlicensed driver; and petit larceny. Randall was arrested July 11 on an arrest warrant out of City of Batavia Court. The warrant and charges are in regards to a shoplifting incident that occurred on Dec. 3 at JCPenney in the mall. She was arraigned in city court and jailed on $250 bail. She was due back in court July 8. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Nicole McGinnis, assisted by Sgt. Dan Coffey.

Wesley Thigpen, 38, of Ellicott Street, Batavia, is charged with first-degree criminal contempt. He was arrested after allegedly making numerous phone calls at 7:38 p.m. July 7 to a person on West Main Street in Batavia who has a full stay away order of protection against him. He is due in Batavia City Court on Tuesday (July 16). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Coty Ray Read, 28, of South Hillcrest Drive, Albion, is charged with criminal trespass. At 9:22 a.m. on July 14 following the investigation of a suspicious condition complaint on Mill Pond Road in Byron, Read was arrested. He is accused of allegedly unlawfully entering and remaining in a residence without the owner's permission. He was released with an appearance ticker for Aug. 5 in Byron Town Court. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Rachel Diehl.

Law and Order: Oakfield teen accused of leaving accident, reporting car as stolen, giving false information

By Billie Owens

Kayla Michelle Yglesias, 19, of Fisher Road, Oakfield, is charged with: falsifying business records in the first degree; falsely reporting an incident to law enforcement in the third degree; operator leaving the scene of a property damage accident; moving from lane unsafely; unlicensed operator; and failure to report a property damage accident. At 8:50 p.m. on July 7, Yglesias was arrested after an investigation of an incident that occurred at 3:45 a.m. June 22 on Fisher Road in Oakfield. She was allegedly involved in a motor-vehicle accident in the Town of Oakfield and left the scene. She then reported the vehicle she was driving as stolen to Sheriff's deputies and falsified information on a supporting deposition. On July 3, deputies recovered the vehicle submerged in a body of water in the Town of Byron. Yglesias was issued appearance tickets and is due in Oakfield Town Court on July 29. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Erik Andre, assisted by Investigator Christopher Parker.

Adam Michael Kreutz, 30, of Franklin Street, Batavia, is charged with falsifying business records in the first degree. He was arrested at 9:50 p.m. on July 7 after an investigation of an incident that occurred at 3:45 a.m. on June 22 on Fisher Road in Oakfield. Kreutz allegedly falsified information on a supporting deposition taken by the GC Sheriff's Office to conceal another crime that was committed. He was arraigned in Oakfield Town Court and jailed without bail. He was due to return to Oakfield court on July 8. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Erik Andre, assisted by  Investigator Christopher Parker.

Parker E. Payton, 20, of Pavilion, was arrested by the Wyoming County Sheriff's Office following a traffic stop on York Road in the Town of Pavilion. He is charged with: driving while ability impaired by drugs; reckless driving; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree; unlawful possession of marijuana; unlawful possession of alcohol by person under 21; possession of a fictitious driver’s license; and multiple other traffic infractions. Payton was observed driving on State Route 63 in the Town of Covington several feet into the oncoming lane while traffic was flowing in the opposite direction past his vehicle. Payton drove his vehicle onto Perry Road then turned on to York Road where deputies were able to conduct a traffic stop. Payton was found to be in underage and allegedly in possession of alcohol in plain view within his vehicle. A subsequent vehicle search found Payton to be in possession of marijuana inside a grinder, concentrated cannabis, and a forged NYS driver’s license. Payton also allegedly failed field sobriety testing and was taken into custody for DWAI Drugs. Payton was taken to the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Office where a Drug Recognition Expert performed a drug influence evaluation with Payton. Payton was found to be impaired by cannabis and unable to operate a vehicle safely. Payton was released to a sober third party and scheduled to answer the charges in the Town of Covington Court on July 29.

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