Skip to main content

Pavilion

Law and Order: Wyoming County Sheriff's Office arrests Batavia woman and Pavilion man

By Billie Owens

Lindsay A. Clemm, 37, of Batavia, was arrested on July 28 following a traffic stop on Route 19 in the Town of Warsaw. Clemm was stopped for allegedly going 56 mph in a 30-mph zone on South Main Street near Jefferson Street in the Village of Warsaw. Multiple other traffic infractions were allegedly observed in the Town of Warsaw while Wyoming County Sheriff's deputes attempted to get Clemm's vehicle to pull over. Clemm allegedly failed field sobriety tests. Clemm's vehicle was towed from the scene and she was taken to the Sheriff's Office where she was evaluated by a drug recognition expert. She was charged with driving while ability impaired by drugs and was processed and released to a third party. She is due in Town of Warsaw Court Aug. 12. The case was handled by Wyoming County Sheriff's Sgt. Colin Reagan.

James K. Penders, 47, of Pavilion, was arrested July 27 following a traffic stop for a loud muffler on Route 19 in the Town of Covington. He was allegedly found to have a revoked license dated June 22, 1996 and an expired license dated March 16, 1995. He was released with appearance tickets for Covington Town Court on Aug. 12. The case was handled by Wyoming County Sheriff's Deputy Adam Hope.

Pavilion's Lydia Milligan, a student-athlete at Elmira College, named to President's List

By Billie Owens

The Empire 8 Conference honored 77 Elmira College student-athletes, including Lydia Milligan (Women's Volleyball), of Pavilion, on its President's List, which recognizes student-athletes who earned a grade-point average of 3.75 or higher during the spring term.

In addition, a total of 11 EC teams were named to the E8 All-Academic Team for possessing a GPA of 3.20 and higher.

"Our student-athletes continue to achieve at very high levels in the classroom. I am so proud of their accomplishments," said E8 Commissioner Chuck Mitrano. "The commitment to academic excellence from our member institutions is unmatched and these numbers prove it."

Recipients of the President's List distinction must be enrolled full-time at their respective institution and carry a minimum GPA of 3.75 while participating in a conference-sponsored sport and displaying positive conduct on-and-off campus. As the Empire 8 states, "Its commitment to serve the educational needs of its student-athletes is the hallmark of the Empire 8."

In total, 750 student-athletes from across the Empire 8 Conference earned a spot on the President's List, while a total of 116 teams were named to the E8 All-Academic Team.

Of the nine institutions in the E8, seven placed 10 or more teams on the E8 All-Academic Team. Among EC's 11 All-Academic Team recipients, women's volleyball and field hockey shared the honor of having the highest GPA among the Soaring Eagles, as both finished the spring term with a 3.59. Women's basketball and women's tennis were not far behind with GPAs of 3.54 and 3.52, respectively. Also qualifying for the award were men's ice hockey, men's tennis, women's cross country, women's lacrosse, softball, women's soccer and women's ice hockey.

Additionally, each Empire 8-affiliated institution sported a healthy 3.00 GPA and six of the nine finished the spring term with a 3.20 GPA or better. As a department, Elmira finished with an impressive 3.21 GPA.

Founded in 1855, Elmira College is a private, residential, liberal arts college offering 30-plus majors, an honors program, 17 academic societies, and 20 Division III varsity teams. Located in the Southern Finger Lakes Region of New York, Elmira's undergraduate and graduate student population hails from more than 20 states and nine countries. Elmira is a Phi Beta Kappa College and has been ranked a top college, nationally, for student internships. The College is also home to the Center for Mark Twain Studies, one of four historically significant Twain heritage sites in the U.S., which attracts Twain scholars and educators from around the world for research on the famous literary icon. Proud of its history and tradition, the College is committed to the ideals of community service, and intellectual and individual growth.

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.

Tree, power lines down, four utility poles damaged on Starr Road, Pavilion

By Billie Owens

A large tree toppled and downed power lines and a transformer at 11084 Starr Road, Pavilion. Wires are arcing by the side of the road. Four utility poles are damaged as well. Pavilion Fire Department is responding and National Grid is notified. A portion of the roadway is closed. The location is between Tufts and River roads.

Elderly Warsaw man dies in accident in Pavilion

By Howard B. Owens
Video Sponsor
.pane-node-body img {background: none !important; border: 0 !important; margin: 0 !important; padding: unset !important; padding-left: 1px !important } broadstreet.zone(69076)

Distracted driving is the suspected cause of a fatal accident at 12:15 this afternoon after a tan 2007 Mercury Grand Marquis sedan slammed into the side of a trailer being hauled by a semi-truck at Route 63 and Route 19 in Pavilion.

The 81-year-old driver of the sedan, Robert G. Daniels, of Warsaw, who deputies believe ran a red light, was pronounced dead at the scene by GC Coroner Tom Douglas.

The driver of the semi-truck, 69-year-old Michael D. Dunn, who had the right-of-way, was uninjured. He is from Prescott, Ontario, Canada, and was driving a 2019 International semi with an empty 2019 Manac trailer northbound on Route 63.

According to a Genesee County Sheriff's Office press release, the investigation continues as to the reason why Daniels failed to stop at the red traffic signal while he was traveling on southbound on Route 19. He struck the passenger side of the trailer.

The accident was investigated by GC Sheriff's Deputy Kevin Forsyth. Assisting at the scene were Sgt. Andrew Hale, Deputy Chris Erion, Investigator James Diehl, the GC Sheriff's Office Crash Management Team members Sgt. Jason Saile and Deputy Richard Schildwaster, Trooper Matt Luft with the NYSP Commerical Vehicle Enforcement Unit, amd members of the Town of Pavilion Fire Department.

Serious injury accident reported at routes 63 and 19, Pavilion

By Billie Owens

Two vehicles and a tractor-trailer collided at Big Tree Road and South Lake Road (routes 63 and 19). One of the vehicles is lodged under the tractor-trailer. There are serious injuries and the roadway is blocked. Pavilion Fire Department is on scene along with mutual aid from Bethany. Mercy medics responding.

Law enforcement is shutting down multiple roadways: the intersection at Texaco Town; route 63 at GC county road 36, route 20 and route 19.

The State Police Commercial Vehicle Inspection Unit is called to the scene.

UPDATE 12:43 p.m.: Due to demands on manpower following the accident, a Sheriff's supervisor is requesting at least two deputies scheduled to work the next shift to come in early.

UPDATE 2:21 p.m.: This is a fatal accident. Although the initial dispatch was for a tractor-trailer and two passenger vehicles involved, only one sedan was involved in the collision with the big rig, which is operated by Kriska Transportation Co. Roads are still closed in the vicinity.

UPDATE 2:50 p.m.: According to Genesee County Sheriff's Sgt. Jason Saile, the tractor-trailer was northbound on Route 63 when a light-colored Mercury Grand Marquis was traveling southbound on Route 19 and failed to stop at a solid red light. The sedan plowed into, and under, the big rig and the male driver, the sole occupant, was deceased by the time first responders arrived. The trucker was not injured. Saile said there is no physical evidence of the sedan ever braking. The impact knocked the trailer into the southbound lane. It was empty. Parise's Auto & Towing was called in to lift the trailer off the car so the victim could be removed. Saile said distracted driving is suspected.

Video T/K.

UPDATE 3:27 p.m.: Just announced roadways are reopened and all responders are back in service.

Law and Order: Rochester man accused of grabbing, pushing BMS student, threatening another

By Billie Owens

George T. Sarkis, 58, of Chili Avenue, Rochester, is charged with endangering the welfare of a child and second-degree harassment. He was arrested on June 26. It is alleged that at 6:16 p.m. on June 20 at Batavia Middle School on Ross Street that Sarkis grabbed a juvenile by the neck and pushed him and threatened physical harm to another juvenile. He was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Batavia City Court at 1 p.m. on July 2. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Victoria Anne Smith, 43, of Main Road, Stafford, is charged with petit larceny. Following a larceny investigation, Smith was arrested on June 23 for allegedly stealing money from the mother's purse at 8 p.m. June 20 while on Main Road in Stafford. Following her arrest, she was released on an appearance ticket and she is due in Stafford Town Court at 9 a.m. on July 15 to answer the charge. The case was investigated by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy James Stack.

Clint Jeffery Towne, 38, of Alleghany Road, Alabama, is charged with: third-degree reckless assault; fourth-degree criminal mischief; and second-degree harassment. He was arrested on Phelps Road in Pembroke following a domestic incident at 7:46 p.m. on June 28. Towne allegedly broke a glass door, causing the glass to shatter and injure the victim. He also allegedly choked the victim. He was arraigned in Pembroke Town Court and released under supervision of Genesee Justice. He is to return to the court on July 9. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kyle Krzemien.

Johnathan Nathaniel Taylor, 34, of Edgewood Drive, Medina, is charged with six counts of endangering the welfare of a child and one count of second-degree harassment. At 7:47 p.m. on June 26, Taylor was arrested on Pratt Road in Batavia after allegedly striking an adult female in the face, causing her to fall to the ground, while in the presence of six children under age 17. He was arraigned in Town of Batavia Court and released on his own recognizance. He is due in the court again on July 22. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore, assisted by Deputy Mathew Clor.

Brandi Lynn Reuben, 23, of Sand Hill Road, Tonawanda Indian Reservation, is charged with second-degree harassment. Reuben was arrested following a domestic incident at 5:45 p.m. June 26 on Ledge Road in the reservation. She allegedly punched a person in the face multiple time. She was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Alabama Town Court on July 10. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Mathew Clor.

Bobby L. Mobley Jr., 34, no permanent address, Batavia, is charged with: disorderly conduct -- violent behavior; disorderly conduct -- obscene language; and disorderly conduct -- obstructing pedestrian traffic. Mobley was arrested following a domestic incident at 12:45 p.m. on June 19 on Maple Street in Batavia. He allegedly repeatedly used obscene language, blocked the freedom of movement of a pedestrian on the sidewalk and continued his threatening behavior after being repeatedly warned to stop his actions by police. He was due in Batavia City Court June 25 to answer the charges. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jason Davis, assisted by Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Maria I. Santiago, 34, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. She was arrested after a physical altercation with another woman at 3:49 p.m. June 18 in a parking lot on North Spruce Street. She is due in Batavia City Court on July 2. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot, assisted by Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk.

Kathryn A. Phillips, 41, of North Street, Batavia, is charged with two Batavia Municipal Code violations -- having a dog running at large and having an unlicensed dog. It is alleged that at 5:15 p.m. on May 6 on North Street that Phillips' unlicensed, unleashed dog left her property and attacked another dog. She was issued at appearance ticket for June 18 in Batavia City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Cronmiller.

Josephine G. Erhardt, 80, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with a Batavia Municipal Code violation -- having a dog running at large. She was arrested at 4:30 p.m. on June 17 after an incident in which her dog allegedly ran loose after a person and around the grounds of an apartment complex. She was issued at appearance ticket for June 25 in Batavia City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Cronmiller.

Michael J. Mead Sr., 32, of State Route 19A, Portageville, is charged with falsely reporting an incident. Following an investigation, Mead was arrested for allegedly calling Child Protective Services and filing two false reports at 9 a.m. on June 12. He was arrested at the Genesee County Jail and released on an appearance ticket. He is due in Batavia Town Court on July 15. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Kyle Krzemien.

Christopher Ridgeway

Christine M. Jones, 32, of Hutchins Place, Batavia, is charged with a Batavia Municipal Code violation -- having a dog running at large. At 4 p.m. on June 19 on Hutchins Place, Jones's dog allegedly ran into the street and at the complainant. Jones was arrested and issued an appearance ticket. She is due in Batavia City Court on July 2. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Steven M. Lindner, 46, of West Main Street, Batavia, is charged with: unlawful possession of marijuana; criminal use of drug paraphernalia in the second degree; criminal possession of a hypodermic instrument; and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 7th degree. Lindner was arrested following an investigation into a noise complaint at 10:25 p.m. June 18 on West Main Street, Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket for July 9 in Batavia City Court, then released. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Cronmiller, assisted by Officer Peter Post.

    Shonje Jefferson

Christopher A. Ridgeway Jr., 27, of Bridgewood Road, Midlothian, Va., is charged with: criminal possession of a controlled substance in the 7th degree; criminal possession of a narcotic with intent to sell; unlawful possession of marijuana; aggravated unlicensed operation in the second degree; and having an obstructed view. Ridgeway was arrested after a traffic stop at 3:41 p.m. on June 27 on Hyde Park in Batavia. He was the driver. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed without bail. He is due back in city court at a later date. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Sgt. Christopher Camp.

Shonje K. Jefferson, 20, of Empire Boulevard, Rochester, is charged with criminal possession of a narcotic drug with intent to sell, and unlawful possession of marijuana. Jefferson was arrested at 3:41 p.m. on June 27 after a quantity of drugs was allegedly located in a vehicle involved in a traffic stop where Jefferson was a passenger. He was jailed without bail and was due in Batavia City Court on June 27. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Sgt. Christopher Camp.

     Joseph Ruiz

Joseph Lee Ruiz, 35, of North Clinton Street, Rochester, is charged with: criminal possession of a controlled substance in the third degree; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the fourth degree; and criminal possession of a controlled substance in the second degree. He was arrested during an investigation at a residence on Bank Street in Batavia at 10:48 p.m. on June 21. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed without bail. He was due back in city court June 24. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Jose Fuentes, 39, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. On June 7, Fuentes was arrested following an investigation into a complaint alleging that at 10:01 that night he rammed his wheelchair into another resident on Bank Street in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket for June 11 in Batavia City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Arick Perkins.

Ricardo Sampel, Sr., 50, of Dellinger Avenue, Batavia, is charged with first-degree criminal contempt. He was arrested for allegedly having contact with a protected party at 1 p.m. on June 25 at UMMC. He was jailed without bail and was due in Genesee County Court on June 26. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jason Davis, assisted by Officer Peter Post.

Laura J. Reed, 27, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with violating an order of protection. She was arrested following an investigation into a disturbance at 11:55 p.m. on June 21 on Bank Street, Batavia. It was determined that Reed was in violation of a court order barring her from the residence. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released under supervision. She was due to return to court June 24. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Flanagan, assisted by Sgt. Matthew Lutey.

Thomas M. Rossiter, 34, of South Swan Street, Batavia, is charged with: driving while intoxicated; aggravated DWI -- a BAC of .18 percent or more; aggravated unlicensed operator in the third degree; and failure to keep right. He was arrested at 3:20 p.m. June 15 on Otis Street in Batavia after he was involved in a motor vehicle accident. He was issued several appearance tickets and is due in Batavia City Court on July 10. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Stephen Cronmiller.

Kay E. Dilcher, 28, of Sunset Drive, Holley, is charged with two counts of false personation. It is alleged that at 10 a.m. on June 25 on Lewiston Road in Batavia that Dilcher claimed to be another person while she was in town for methadone treatment. She was identified not to be the person she claimed to be and she had several warrants for her arrest in two other counties. She was released on appearance tickets and was transferred to Orleans County Sheriff's Office to answer charges there. The case has handled by Batavia Police Officer Jason Davis,, assisted by Officer Miah Stevens. At 9:14 a.m. on June 27 Dilcher was arrested and charged with false personation after being detained by Batavia PD for an unrelated incident and providing a false name to officers. She is due in Batavia City Court on July 9 for both cases. The second case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Miah Stevens, assisted by Officer Jason Davis.

Michelle L. Misiak, 53, of South Main Street, Batavia, was arrested after an investigation. It is alleged that she contacted the Genesee County Emergency Dispatch Center at 9:07 a.m. on June 20 and reported a disturbance involving weapons on South Main Street resulting in a police response to the address. It was subsequently determined that Misiak's report was unfounded. He was issued a computer-generated appearance ticket and released. She was due in Batavia City Court on June 25. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Kevin DeFelice.

Jessica M. Horton, 28, of Telephone Road, Pavilion, is charged with theft of services. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court on June 7 on an arrest warrant and put in jail on $500 bail. It is alleged that on May 17 on Oak Street in Batavia that Horton failed to pay for a local hotel room that she stayed in. The case was handled by Batavia Police Sgt. Dan Coffey.

Malik I. Ayala, 27, Holland Avenue, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. He was arrested at 8:52 p.m. on June 7 for allegedly stealing property from a store on East Main Street in Batavia. He was issued an appearance ticket and was due in Batavia City Court June 18. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider.

Jesse D. Bowman, 26, of Vine Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. It is alleged at at 9:20 p.m. on June 20 on East Main Street in Batavia that Bowman stole items from a local business. He was processed, issued an appearance ticket and was due in Batavia City Court on June 25. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Sgt. Matthew Lutey.

Daniel S. Kuczka, 75, of Walden Creek Drive, Batavia, is charged with failure to appear. He was due in court after being issued an appearance ticket for trespass at 11:09 a.m. on June 25 on Walden Creek Drive. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and released under supervision of Genesee Justice. He is due in city court again on July 9. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Jason Davis, assisted by Officer Jason Ivison.

A 16-year-old resident of Pearl Street, Batavia, is charged with failure to appear in court May 14 after being issued an appearance ticket. The youth was arrested on June 8 on a warrant out of Batavia City Court. He was released on his own recognizance and was due back in city court June 12. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Jacob John Sponaugle, 20, of Liberty Street, Batavia, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. At 3:55 p.m. on June 24, Sponaugle allegedly brought a bag of marijuana into the Genesee County Probation Office. He was released on an appearance ticket in is due in Batavia City Court on July 2. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

House fire reported on Junction Road, Pavilion

By Howard B. Owens

A house fire is reported at 6616 Junction Road, Pavilion.

Both occupants were exiting the house

Pavilion fire, Le Roy fire, and Stafford dispatched.

UPDATE 12:44 a.m.: Fully involved structure fire with flames coming through the roof. City fire and Alexander dispatched.

UPDATE 12:50 a.m.: A chief calls for a defensive attack.

UPDATE 12:54 a.m.: National Grid called to the scene.

UPDATE 1:40 a.m.: Caledonia to proceed to the scene and Bergen to fill in at Le Roy.

UPDATE 3 a.m.: Information and photos from Alecia Kaus/Video News Service: The house is a total loss. The homeowner (listed on the county tax website as Kenneth Reamer) woke up to a fire in the house. A friend was sleeping on the couch. The owner called 9-1-1 grabbed one of his cats and ran out. The other cat was seen running out of the house. No cause of origin of the fire yet released.

Cause of Le Roy woman's death following accident in Pavilion is under investigation

By Howard B. Owens

A 49-year-old Le Roy woman died Tuesday after suffering serious injuries in a motor-vehicle accident on Route 20 in Pavilion on Monday.

Holly C. Neuffer was driving a 2010 Nissan Murano westbound on Route 20, according to the Sheriff's Office, when she failed to negotiate a curve in the road and went off the north shoulder. The Nissan struck a tree head on in the vicinity of 7550 Route 20 at 3:35 p.m.

Neuffer was transported by Le Roy Ambulance to Strong Memorial Hospital.

A medical examination will be required to determine whether Neuffer died as a result of her injuries or from another medical condition.

The crash remains under investigation. Conducting the investigation are Chief Deputy Brian Frieday, Sgt. Andrew Hale, Investigator James Diehl, Deputy Ryan DeLong, and Deputy Robert Henning.

Assisting at the scene where the Le Roy Fire Department, Pavilion Fire Department, Mercy EMS, and State troopers.

Pregnant female trapped in car wedged in trees at Pavilion intersection

By Billie Owens

An accident is reported in Pavilion at 1200 South Street Road, near Telephone Road.

A car is wedged in trees and a pregnant woman is unable to exit.

A second vehicle is roadside.

The accident is partially blocking traffic.

Pavilion fire and Mercy medics are responding along with State Police.

Darien ambulance is also called to respond.

One lane of traffic will be closed.

UPDATE 4:17 p.m.: The female was extricated and transported to a hospital for evaluation. The roadway is reopened. The assignment is back in service.

GCC Spring 2019 dean's list has 41 GC students on it

By Billie Owens

A total of 247 students from Genesee Community College were named to the dean's list for the Spring 2019 semester, and 41 of them live in Genesee County. Students honored on the dean's list have maintained full or part-time enrollment and earned a quality point index of 3.50 to 3.74.

Genesee County Spring 2019 dean's list students at GCC:

Caylin Walton of Alexander, NY (14005)

Ryli Crego of Alexander, NY (14005)

Scott Logan of Basom, NY (14013)

Thomas Claffey of Batavia, NY (14020)

Conner Schmit of Batavia, NY (14020)

Amanda Rodriguez of Batavia, NY (14020)

Rachel Flint of Batavia, NY (14020)

Madison Schady of Batavia, NY (14020)

Adam Dixson of Batavia, NY (14020)

Kelly Butler of Batavia, NY (14020)

Daysha Mast of Batavia, NY (14020)

Ashley Schiefer of Batavia, NY (14020)

Evan Bellavia of Batavia, NY (14020)

Amber Snyder of Batavia, NY (14020)

Danielle Joyce of Batavia, NY (14020)

Tyler Prospero of Batavia, NY (14020)

Austin Davis of Batavia, NY (14020)

Jessica Newton of Batavia, NY (14020)

Micheal Van Dorn of Batavia, NY (14020)

Kristen Saeva of Batavia, NY (14020)

Bailey Gavenda of Batavia, NY (14020)

Kitana Maher of Bergen, NY (14416)

Hayley Hoehn of Bergen, NY (14416)

Julia Menzie of Bergen, NY (14416)

Grace Campbell of Byron, NY (14422)

Kaeli LaFrance of Byron, NY (14422)

Jamie Maskell of Byron, NY (14422)

Brandon Kowalski of Corfu, NY (14036)

Ashlee Gilchrist of Corfu, NY (14036)

Jenna Salim of Corfu, NY (14036)

Mackenzie Simpson of Le Roy, NY (14482)

Morgan Luce of Le Roy, NY (14482)

Magnum Kibler of Le Roy, NY (14482)

Eva Rhoads of Le Roy, NY (14482)

Madison Brandes of Le Roy, NY (14482)

Sarah Glor of Oakfield, NY (14125)

Katelyn Barnes of Pavilion, NY (14525)

Kirsten Edwards of Pavilion, NY (14525)

Josilynn Russo of Pavilion, NY (14525)

Caleb Busch of Stafford, NY (14143)

Julie Carasone of Stafford, NY (14143)

Genesee Community College serves approximately 6,000 students per semester through more than 70 academic programs and certificates, including the Marketing and Social Media concentration within the Business Administration program, and the new Nanotechnology degree with ECC. On a microscopic scale, nanotech focuses on careers in biology, chemistry, electrical engineering, medicine and photovoltaics. 

GCC's Student Success Center makes admissions, financial aid and enrollment a simple and efficient process. The college has earned three national sports titles The athletics program, housed in the state-of-the-art Richard C. Call Arena hosts more than a dozen intercollegiate men's and women's teams.

Highly convenient, GCC operates seven campus locations throughout Western New York, as well as a significant online learning program. College housing is available at College Village, just a three minute walk from the Batavia Campus. With small class sizes and state-of-the-art technology both inside and out of the classroom, Genesee Community College is known for being "high tech" and "high touch."

GCC names 41 local students to Spring 2019 Provost's List

By Billie Owens

A total of 223 students from Genesee Community College are named to Provost's List for the Spring 2019 semester; 41 live in Genesee County.

Students honored on the Provost's List have maintained part-time enrollment and earned a quality point index of 3.75 (roughly equivalent to an A) or better.

The 41 Genesee County students named to the Provost's List are (in their community's alphabetic order):

Cassandra Koepp of Alexander, NY (14005)

Naomi LaDuke of Alexander, NY (14005)

Jessica Lennon of Alexander, NY (14005)

Jennamarie Schiller of Alexander, NY (14005)

Alexis Balduf of Batavia, NY (14020)

JoAnne Clemm of Batavia, NY (14020)

Mallory Gilbraith of Batavia, NY (14020)

Tammy Kingdollar of Batavia, NY (14020)

Tessa Lynn of Batavia, NY (14020)

Kali Nichols of Batavia, NY (14020)

Jessica O'Neil of Batavia, NY (14020)

Cleghon Rolle of Batavia, NY (14020)

Cameron Sanzo of Batavia, NY (14020)

Margaret Smith of Batavia, NY (14020)

Ashley Stone of Batavia, NY (14020)

Julia Streeter of Batavia, NY (14020)

Robert Tripp of Batavia, NY (14020)

Megan West of Batavia, NY (14020)

Stephanie Wolfe of Batavia, NY (14020)

Grace Morrill of Bergen, NY (14416)

Sheena Dilcher of Byron, NY (14422)

Teagan Mathes of Byron, NY (14422)

Nicole Franclemont of Corfu, NY (14036)

Alexandria Tarbell of Corfu, NY (14036)

Edward Foeller of Darien Center, NY (14040)

Jillian Hartwig of Darien Center, NY (14040)

Lewis Ryan of Darien Center, NY (14040)

Dustin Wheeler of Darien Center, NY (14040)

Angelique Newton of East Bethany, NY (14054)

Caroline Pelton of East Bethany, NY (14054)

Bailey Delelys of Elba, NY (14058)

Samantha Nickerson of Elba, NY (14058)

John Boyle of Le Roy, NY (14482)

Kristin Johnston of Le Roy, NY (14482)

Kathryn Krautwurst of Le Roy, NY (14482)

Cheryl McGee of Le Roy, NY (14482)

Zach Sovocool of Le Roy, NY (14482)

Megan Webb of Le Roy, NY (14482)

Colin Graham of Oakfield, NY (14125)

Jacqueline Thompson of Oakfield, NY (14125)

Jessica Ruiz of Pavilion, NY (14525)

Genesee Community College serves approximately 6,000 students per semester through more than 70 academic programs and certificates, including Marketing and Social Media concentration within the Business Administration program, and Nanotechnology degree with ECC. On a microscopic scale, nanotech focuses on careers in biology, chemistry, electrical engineering, medicine and photovoltaics. 

GCC's new Student Success Center makes admissions, financial aid and enrollment a simple and efficient process. The college has earned three national sports titles. The athletics program, housed in the new, state-of-the-art Richard C. Call Arena hosts more than a dozen intercollegiate men's and women's teams.

Highly convenient, GCC operates seven campus locations throughout Western New York, as well as a significant online learning program. Student housing is available at College Village, just a three minute walk from the Batavia Campus. With small class sizes and state-of-the-art technology both inside and out of the classroom, Genesee Community College is known for being "high tech" and "high-touch."

The Hillcrest Estate offers festivity, a rich history and authentic sense of community

By Lauren Leone

“I find when I bring people here, I’ll get a parent who will be like, ‘what’s that?’ and we’ll go into a 20-minute conversation about the history of the house,” said Kate Wilcox-Rodwell, who owns a newly renovated mansion in Pavilion called The Hillcrest Estate.

Twenty minutes may just scratch the surface of the history of mansion, which sits on 120 acres at 1940 Craig Road.

It was built in the late 1800s in the Country Place Era, a time according to The Cultural Landscape Foundation, in which large, opulent residences were built by affluent families in pastoral settings, often serving as getaways from city life during the warmer months of the year.

The Hillcrest Estate has welcomed notable guests like President Theodore Roosevelt, Mark Twain and Ethel Barrymore.

And for nearly four decades it has stayed in the Wilcox family, which has hosted many public and private events for friends and family.

Kate Wilcox-Rodwell (inset photo below) grew up in the home and last year she and her husband, Matthew Rodwell, moved to the property to devote themselves to extensively restoring it.

The 32-room mansion is spacious at 9,500 square feet. It features 11 bedrooms, a grand ballroom, stone fireplaces and its original wooden floors. Historic antiques are showcased with natural lighting, bookshelves, flower arrangements and vintage furniture.

The estate’s grounds are groomed and landscaped, but they still feel walk-able and casual. The secluded property has a reflecting pool, covered veranda, tiered terraces and various locations suitable for photography like the woods.  

“There’s a lot of unique character here that you can’t get in a brand-new facility,” said Wilcox-Rodwell. “You can’t get authentic character everywhere, but you can here.”

The ballroom and lawns are available for weddings, bridal parties, corporate meetings, small and large social gatherings and community events. The ballroom can accommodate 120 guests, and the outdoor reception tent can host approximately 300 guests.

“One of the things I love about this place is the flexibility and different areas to choose from [for your event]. You’re not subject to one spot for one thing,” Wilcox-Rodwell said.

In May, the estate received a grant from The Landmark Society of Western New York Preservation Grant Fund Committee. This grant funds for preliminary planning and design studies for restoration projects throughout the region. Wilcox-Rodwell put the $2,000 award toward the development of a permit set to turn a portion of the estate into an event venue.

Upgrades to the estate include new landscaping, roofing, masonry work and an ADA-accessible ramp. To use the space to its fullest potential, the owners are renovating the restrooms, foyer and bridal lounge. Future plans include remodeled bedrooms for guests and year-round housing for the owners.

The Hillcrest Estate recently joined the Chamber of Commerce in Genesee and Livingston counties to enhance its business culture and grow closer to the community.

“I have to commend both of the chambers because they have been great — resources and spreading the word about what we are trying to do — I can’t thank them enough for that,” Wilcox-Rodwell said.

“They can really connect you with other individuals who share similar values because they’ve got businesses in their respective counties that want to grow and thrive and connect with other business owners.”   

The owners plan to also support charitable causes with their event space going forward. In September, The Hillcrest Estate will host the Town of York Historical Society to celebrate the town’s bicentennial.

Wilcox-Rodwell describes a rewarding part of owning the mansion as “being able to share this property with other people. There are people who live five minutes from here that don’t know that there’s this amazing house in their backyard that has all this history that 100 years ago was a big part of their town. I’m excited to share it.”

To contact The Hillcrest Estate, phone (585) 356-7164 or visit online here.

Photos courtesy of Kate Wilcox-Rodwell.

Pavilion's Brian Dukelow earns degree in Ag Business at Iowa State University

By Billie Owens

AMES, Iowa -- Iowa State University's largest-ever graduating class (5,248) received degrees during four spring commencement ceremonies May 9 and 11. Iowa State awarded 4,439 undergraduate degrees, 527 master's degrees, 132 doctor of philosophy degrees and 150 veterinary medicine degrees.

Brian Dukelow, of Pavilion, received his Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business.

Robert Easter, president emeritus and professor emeritus of Animal Science at the University of Illinois; and Simon Estes, Iowa State's F. Wendell Miller Distinguished Artist-In-Residence, addressed the undergraduates during morning and afternoon ceremonies, respectively.

Debra Stewart, a senior fellow at NORC and president emerita of the Council of Graduate Schools, delivered the Graduate College commencement address. Iowa State alumnus and veterinary pathologist Vincent Meador spoke at the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine ceremony.

Two people charged with possession of lots of stolen items in Memorial Day bust in Pavilion

By Billie Owens

Press release from the Genesee County Sheriff's Office:

On Memorial Day, May 27, Deputy Ryan Young was dispatched to a reported disabled or abandoned vehicle on Peoria Road in the Town of Pavilion.

Deputy Young arrived on scene and located Stormy Watts, 21, of Stafford, and Daniel Lewis, 22, of North Chili, sleeping in the back seat.

Deputy Young made contact with both occupants who stated that they were waiting to call someone to bring them gas.

Upon investigation, it is alleged that Lewis was in possession of a firearm, being a convicted felon.

Numerous confirmed stolen items were allegedly located in the couple's possession. There were many other items allegedly found in their possession, but the Sheriff's Office is still attempting to locate the property owners.

Numerous vehicle electronics, handbags and wallets were seized.

If anyone has not yet reported a theft from their vehicle, please contact Deputy Young at the Genesee County Sheriff's Office (585-345-3000).

It is alleged that the larcenies occurred possibly in Monroe, Livingston and Genesee counties. These larcenies would have occurred between March and Memorial Day this year.

Lewis was charged with: criminal possession of stolen property in the fourth degree, a Class E felony; destroying physical evidence, also a Class E felony; criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree, a Class A misdemeanor; criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, another Class A misdemeanor; and unlawful possession of marijuana, a violation.

Lewis was arraigned in Town of Le Roy Court and is being held in Genesee County Jail in lieu of $2,500 cash bail or $5,000 bond.

Watts was charged with criminal possession of stolen property in the fourth degree, and unlawful possession of marijuana. Watts was arraigned in Le Roy Town Court and jailed on $1,000 cash bail or $3,000 bond.

Both subjects are due in Pavilion Town Court at 3 p.m. on June 4.

Genesee County Sheriff's Office was assisted by NYS Police, the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Livingston County Sheriff's Office.

Law and Order: Jackson Street man accused of stealing $800 in tools from Le Roy hardware store

By Billie Owens

Benjamin Santiago Jr., 30, of Jackson Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. After a larceny investigation at Crocker's Ace Hardware in Le Roy, Santiago was arrested May 18 for allegedly stealing $800 worth of tools from the store at 3:25 p.m. on May 14. He was released on an appearance ticket and is due in Le Roy Town Court on June 13. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy James Stack.

Heather Nicole Holbrook, 34, of Byron-Holley Road, Byron, is charged with: criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree; endangering the welfare of a child; aggravated unlicensed operation in the third degree; and having an indequate muffler. At 10:08 p.m. on May 16, deputies conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of West Main Street and River Street in the City of Batavia. Following an investigation, Holbrook was arrested. She is accused of operating a motor vehicle while her driver's license was suspended and while in possession of a controlled substance, with two children as passengers. She was issued appearance tickets and is due in Batavia City Court on May 29. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Erik Andre, assisted by Deputy Robert Henning.

Heather Nicole Holbrook, 34, of Byron-Holley Road, Byron, is charged with failure to appear. She was arrested on a warrant out of Batavia City Court and arraigned at 10:58 a.m. on May 17. She is accused of failing to appear in Batavia City Court on May 9. She was released on her own recognizance and is to return to city court on May 29. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Flanagan.

Michael David Senay Jr., 25, of Overlook Drive, Batavia, is charged with: third-degree menacing; fourth-degree criminal mischief; criminal obstruction of breathing; unlawful imprisonment in the second degree; and second-degree harassment. At 9 p.m. on May 17, following the investigation of a domestic incident in the Town of Batavia, Senay was arrested. He was arraigned in Batavia Town Court. He is due back in court on June 11. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Joshua Brabon.

Lee Christopher Clark, 39, of 8202 Lewiston Road, upper, Batavia, is a convicted sex offender charged with failure to report a change of address/status within 10 days as required. It is alleged that Clark failed to register Internet accounts with the NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services within 10 days. He was transported to the GC Sheriff's Office for processing and released on an appearance ticket returnable to Batavia Town Court on June 4. The case was handled by GC Sheriff's Deputy Travis DeMuth.

Sara Tea Cupler, 26, of Starr Road, Pavilion, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree and unlawful possession of marijuana. Cupler was arrested at 8:33 p.m. on May 18 after a call to the Emergency Dispatch Center for a welfare check on a female unconscious in a vehicle on South Lake Road, Pavilion. Cupler was released on an appearance ticket and is due in Pavilion Town Court on June 4. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy David Moore, assisted by Deputy Andrew Hale.

Robert G. Whitehead, 28, of Ellsworth Avenue, Batavia, was arrested on a bench warrant out of Batavia City Court on May 13. He is accused of failure to appear in court on Sept. 13, 2012. He was arraigned at 1:54 p.m. and then put in jail in lieu of $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 bond. He was due back in city court on May 16. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Miah Stevens, assisted by Officer Marc Lawrence.

Katrina Lynn Drake, 29, of Locust Avenue, Lockport, was arrested on May 21 and charged with trespass. It is alleged that at 5:39 p.m. on May 9 there was a disturbance on Tracy Avenue in Batavia and Drake allegedly went onto a porch and kicked a door. She is due in Batavia City Court on May 21 to answer the charge. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Officer Felicia DeGroot.

Bryan Jose Alvarado-Arce, 22, of Studley Street, Rochester, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Alvarado-Arce was arrested at 6:29 p.m. on May 17 after a traffic stop on Townline Road in Bergen. He was a passenger in the vehicle. He was released on an appearance ticket and he is due in Bergen Town Court on June 5. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy James Stack.

Student winners announced for regional digital media conference

By Billie Owens

Lyla Bynum from Le Roy Central School District is the First Place winner in The DIGIES' PreK-3 Audio category with her submission "Cats and Kittens."

Submitted photo and press release:

LE ROY -- The DIGIES is an annual digital media conference and festival run by the School Library Service, a program of the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership. 

This year’s festival awards event was held on May 16 at the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester.

The mission of The DIGIES is to strengthen the digital media continuum between Pre-K-12 schools, higher education and professional institutions. The DIGIES recognizes student potential in an annual festival format and draws student entries from throughout the region and the Upstate New York area.

Emilee Williamson and Andrea Fetterly, Library technologies’ specialists; and Brian Mayer, game librarian, coordinate this conference. Mayer noted how this year’s festival drew a variety of entries.

“We had another wonderful year with strong submissions from both the Genesee Valley Region and beyond," Mayer said. "Submissions continue to come in from both school and public libraries, with students not only sharing curricular projects but personal work as well."

Below is a listing of all the event categories, age groupings, award winners and their school districts.

Congratulations to these imaginative students!

AUDIO

PreK-3

1st Place – Lyla Bynum -- "Cats and Kittens" – Le Roy Central School

Grades 4-6

1st Place – Ben Knapp -- "The Pink Fluffy Unicorn’s Problem" – Le Roy Central School

2nd Place – Sophie Beikirch -- "The New Old Book" – Livonia Central School

3rd Place – Matthew Parry -- "Nintendo Designer" – Livonia Central School

Grades 7-9

1st Place – Mina Stevens – "O’er Th’ Loch" – Pittsford Central School

2nd Place – Trey Prevost, Kailyn Tresco, Amara Condidorio, Lola Forte, Hailey-Jay Michel, Alli Privatera, Angela Allen, Adele Feeley, Ashley Michel – "Las Excusas"  – Le Roy Central School

3rd Place – Evie Babcock – "Quien Soy Yo" – Le Roy Central School

Grades 10-12

1st Place – Peyton Martin – "Lost At Sea" – Mount Morris Central School

2nd Place – Leslie Arneth, Katie Carmichael, Kassidy Steffenilla "ASMR: An Episode of Knightly Knews" – Le Roy Central School

3rd Place – Hailey Grasso, Alexis Pfendler – "Real Feminism Podcast" – Le Roy Central School

GRAPHIC ARTS

PreK-3

1st Place – Reese Koukides – "Reflection of Fire" – Le Roy Central School

2nd Place – Sean Kantorowicz – "Altered Photos" – Livonia Central School

3rd Place – Broton Folts – "Best Part of Me" – Livonia Central School

Grades 4-6

1st Place – Kayden Sweet – "Egyptian Pyramid" – Livonia Central School

2nd Place – Paolo Quintana – "Altered Photos" – Livonia Central School

3rd Place – Seaenna Ford – "The Chipmunk" – Livonia Central School

Grades 7-9

1st Place – Victoria Feng – "Platonic Sculpture" – Rush-Henrietta Central School

2nd Place – Nhu Tran – "Giraffe" – Rush-Henrietta Central School

3rd Place – Mackenzie Pustulka – "Virtual Gallery" – Rush-Henrietta Central School

3rd Place – Kaylen Petramalo – "Credo Stellae" (latin) (Believe in Stars) – Rush-Henrietta Central School

Grades 10-12

1st Place – Nathan Coy – "Layne Staley" – Pavilion Central School

2nd Place – Jayde Wilkin-Smith – "Grandparent’s View in Germany" – Livonia Central School

2nd Place – Ella Sexton – "The Water View" – Livonia Central School

3rd Place – Allana Knopp – "Teepee" – Holley Central School

INTERACTIVE MEDIA

PreK-3

1st Place – Cora Weaver, Bailey Caton, Kylie Wilson, Leah Cashin – "It’s Time for a Change" – Le Roy Central School

2nd Place – Peyton Bennett – "Crossing the Delaware" – Livonia Central School

Grades 4-6

1st Place – Lily Sharp, Hannah White, Leah Whittel – "Jack and the Hairy Beanstalk" – Livonia Central School

2nd  Place – Nadja Emmendorfer – "Greece" – Le Roy Central School

3rd Place – Matthew Covert, Andrew Greene, Fernando Cacho – "Space: Our Galaxy, Universe and Beyond!" – Le Roy Central School

Grades 10-12

1st Place – Casey Wurtz – "College Photo" – Pembroke Central School

2nd Place – Faith DesRoches – "An Exploration of New Social Landscape" – Pembroke Central School

3rd Place – Evan McCoy, Sam Heck – "Rent-a-Pet" – Livonia Central School

VIDEO

PreK-3

1st Place – Pedro Segatto, Wyatt Sattora, Rivers Thomas, Mason Patterson, Ceci Prince, Mackenzie Partridge, Sainelys Diaz, Scott Ho, Jagger Lee, Mason Bowick, Trenton Konzel, Finley Weingaertner, Sandy Godinez – "Composite Shapes in Spring" – Geneseo Central School

2nd Place – Chloe Richardson, Dylan Bogdon, Justin Ferguson, Kylee Wonsey, Noah Johnso – "Blooper Reel" – Livonia Central School

3rd Place – Jane Fischer – "Fun with Animations!" – Livonia Central School

Grades 4-6

1st Place – Helio Quintana, Carson Beardsley – "A Quick Trip" – Livonia Central School

2nd Place – Leila Haines, Leona Savino, Anna Reilly, Lucas Savino – "Ridiculous Ocean" – Victor-Farmington Public Library

3rd Place – Taila Cavalcante-Bezerra, Isabella Hennessy, Chloe Meys – "Viruses Going Around" – Livonia Central School

Grades 7-9

1st Place – Mina Stevens – "The Monster in My Closet" – Pittsford Central School

2nd Place – Amy Eck – "Clearly" – Le Roy Central School

3rd Place – Jack Tonzi, Jake Marcello, Nate Yauchzee – "Bohemian Immigrant" – Le Roy Central School

Grades 10-12

1st Place – Jacob French – "Dominos" – Geneseo Central School

2nd Place – Alexis Verrall – "What You Don’t Know About ME" – Tonawanda Central School

3rd Place – Marquise Bennett – "Ageism" – Pittsford Central School

About the School Library System

It is a program of the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership, based in Le Roy. The Partnership operates as a Board of Cooperative Educational Services offering shared programs and services to 22 component school districts located in Genesee, Wyoming, Livingston and Steuben counties in New York State.

Tiffani Bragg of Pavilion named a Legacy Leader at RIT

By Billie Owens

Tiffani Bragg, of Pavilion, has been named a Legacy Leader at Rochester Institute of Technology. The Legacy Leadership program celebrates the leadership and contributions that graduating female-identified students have made to the RIT community during their time on campus.

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

The university is internationally recognized and ranked for academic leadership in business, computing, engineering, imaging science, liberal arts, sustainability, and fine and applied arts. RIT also offers unparalleled support services for deaf and hard-of-hearing students.

The cooperative education program is one of the oldest and largest in the nation. Global partnerships include campuses in China, Croatia, Dubai and Kosovo.

 

Heavy black smoke reported in the area of Dillon and Perry roads, Pavilion

By Howard B. Owens

A caller reported heavy black smoke in the area of Dillon and Perry roads, Pavilion, and one firefighter responding reported hearing explosions.

A fire chief has located two old campers on fire in the woods.

Pavilion fire is responding.

A chief on scene is requesting contact with law enforcement, either in person or by phone.

Authentically Local