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Two new art exhibits on display at GO ART!

By Billie Owens
Press release:
 
GO ART! presents two new art exhibits starting today: "Psychedilia" by Alex Segovia; and the debut art exhibit by GO OUT!
 
Both run through Sept. 7 at GO ART! 201 E. Main S., Batavia.
 
Galleries are open Thursday and Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Genesee County Fair 4-H Livestock Show 2019 results announced

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Congratulations to the Genesee County 4-H members who participated in the 4-H Livestock Shows at the 2019 Genesee County Fair.

4-H Beef Show

  • Senior Showmanship – Caleb Carlson
  • Junior Showmanship – Audrey Dorman
  • Novice Showmanship – Thomas Keele
  • Master Showman – Caleb Carlson
  • Supreme Female – Makayla Sugg
  • Reserve Supreme Female – Shianne Foss 
  • Champion Beef Steer – Autumn Mathisen
  • Reserve Champion Beef Steer – Shianne Foss
  • Champion Dairy Steer – Maggie Winspear
  • Reserve Champion Dairy Steer – Justin Deleo 

4-H Dairy Cattle Show

  • Novice Showmanship – Colton Walczak
  • Junior Showmanship – Jacob Beideck
  • Intermediate Showmanship – Maggie Winspear
  • Senior Showmanship – Amelia Brewer
  • Master Showman – Amelia Brewer
  • Champion Ayrshire – Amelia Brewer
  • Champion Grade – Annalise Sybertz
  • Champion Holstein – Bing Zuber
  • Champion Brown Swiss – Bing Zuber
  • Champion Jersey – Maggie Winspear
  • Supreme Champion – Bing Zuber
  • Reserve Supreme Champion – Bing Zuber
  • Best Bred and Owned – Jillian Brewer

4-H Dairy & Meat Goat Show

  • Novice Dairy Goat Showmanship – Levi Miller
  • Junior Dairy Goat Showmanship – Jade Winn
  • Senior Dairy Goat Showmanship – Gabe Winn
  • Master Dairy Goat Showman—Jade Winn
  • Best Udder—Gabe Winn
  • Best in Show Dairy Doe—Shane Coast
  • Novice Meat Goat Showmanship – Levi Miller
  • Junior Meat Goat Showmanship – Campbell Riley
  • Senior Meat Goat Showmanship – John Riley
  • Master Meat Goat Showman—John Riley
  • Champion Meat Goat Doe—Lily Haacke
  • Champion Boer Doe—John Riley

4-H Sheep Show

  • Senior Showmanship – Becky Kron
  • Junior Showmanship – Hunter McCabe
  • Novice Showmanship – Makayla Sugg
  • Master Showman—Becky Kron
  • Supreme Champion Ram – Becky Kron
  • Supreme Champion Ewe – Brendan Pimm
  • Champion Market Lamb – Makayla Sugg
  • Reserve Champion Market Lamb – Ben Kron

4-H Hog Show

  • Senior Showmanship – Dillon Weber
  • Junior Showmanship – Brendan Pimm
  • Novice Showmanship – Thomas Keele
  • Master Showman – Dillon Weber
  • Champion Market Hog – Makayla Sugg
  • Reserve Champion Market Hog – Thomas Keele
  • Supreme Champion Gilt – Thomas Keele
  • Reserve Supreme Gilt – Jillian Weaver

4-H Market Animal Auction Poultry Show 

  • Champion Pen of Chickens – Evan Winspear 
  • Reserve Pen of Chickens – Jillian Brewer
  • Master Showman – Teagan Mathes
  • Champion Project Pen of Chickens – Teagan Mathes
  • Reserve Project Pen of Chickens – Teagan Mathes

4-H Market Animal Auction Goat Show

  • Champion Market Goat – John Riley
  • Reserve Champion Market Goat – Riley Smith
  • Master Showman – John Riley
  • Champion Project Market Goat – Tyler Jirovec
  • Reserve Project Market Goat – Clare Mathes

4-H Market Animal Auction Lamb Show

  • Champion Market Lamb – Makayla Sugg
  • Reserve Champion Market Lamb – Madelynn Pimm
  • Master Showman – Brendan Pimm
  • Champion Project Market Lamb – Makayla Sugg
  • Reserve Project Market Lamb – Brendan Pimm

4-H Market Animal Auction Beef Show

  • Champion Beef Steer – Cole Carlson
  • Reserve Beef Steer – Caleb Carlson
  • Master Showman – Cole Carlson
  • Champion Project Beef Steer – Cole Carlson
  • Reserve Project Beef Steer – Shianne Foss

4-H Market Animal Auction Dairy Steer Show

  • Champion Dairy Steer – Bing Zuber
  • Reserve Dairy Steer – Chase Zuber
  • Master Showman – Carolyn Sybertz
  • Champion Project Dairy Steer – Bing Zuber
  • Reserve Project Dairy Steer – Chase Zuber

4-H Market Animal Auction Hog Show

  • Champion Market Hog – Becky Kron
  • Reserve Market Hog – Cody Carlson
  • Master Showman – Becky Kron
  • Champion Project Market Hog – Cody Carlson
  • Reserve Project Market Hog – Thomas Keele

For more information about the Genesee County 4-H Program, contact the 4-H Office at genesee4h@cornell.edu or 585-343-3040, ext. 131. 

One lane to close on Creek Road at Cook Road in Bethany for bridge painting

By Billie Owens

Important Notice
 

From the county Highway Department:

Effective, July 29, there will be a single lane closure on Creek Road at the intersection of Cook Road in Bethany for painting the bridge over the Little Tonawanda Creek.

There will be a temporary traffic light at the intersection.

The closure will last approximately two weeks.

We will notify the public when the road reopens.

Detectives attempt to piece facts together for jurors in Liberty Street murder trial

By Lauren Leone

Batavia Police Department detectives' court testimony on Thursday attempted to connect the bludgeoning death of 47-year-old Raymond L. Morgan to Richard D. Hanes, the man accused of murdering Morgan in his Liberty Street residence last July.  

District Attorney Lawrence Friedman called detectives Eric Hill and Thad Mart to testify about their recollections of the events surrounding the July 24, 2018, murder. 

The investigators said lab tests detected Hanes’s DNA on a baseball cap found below Morgan’s bedroom window. Detectives reportedly also found a green shirt and gray pants — similar to descriptions of the unknown perpetrator’s clothes — in Hanes’s blood-covered closet at his former Thorpe Street, Batavia, home. 

The detectives explained to jurors that Morgan’s DNA began to be collected throughout the city following his death. Batavia PD found Morgan’s blood on both the exterior of his bedroom window and the house siding below the room in the hours after the attack. 

Morgan’s DNA was also swabbed from a handlebar grip of Hanes’s bicycle and a hammer on the roof of an Ellicott Street house. Detectives suspect Hanes may have thrown the alleged murder weapon before pedaling back to Thorpe Street. 

Jurors listened as Hill reassembled a text conversation between Morgan and Hanes from the fatal night last July. Although Morgan’s contact information and the text messages did not appear on Hanes’s phone, they were later found in a phone records search by police. 

Hanes apparently texted Morgan “I owe you $395. Imma pay you” around 10:50 p.m. and “Here” at 11:09 p.m, minutes before Batavia PD was called to 111 Liberty St.

Mart told the jury that he had heard loud sirens from emergency responders as he was driving on Main Street before being dispatched to the scene of Morgan's death.

Mart questioned why Hanes said in a July 26, 2018, interview that he did not hear or see responders while traveling on his bicycle in the vicinity of the crime scene. 

“For him to be in the area where he said he was, I find it hard to believe that he would not at least hear the sirens,” Mart said.

Hanes faces life in prison if convicted of second-degree murder. Defense attorney Frederick Rarick will have the opportunity to cross-examine Mart when the trial continues at 2 p.m. today in Genesee County Court.

Riotous beauty: Ross Kenyon's daylily garden on Cohocton Road, Corfu

By Billie Owens

Reader Ross Kenyon sent us this picture of his spectacular daylily garden on the grounds of his home at 580 Cohocton Road in Corfu.

He says the posies are in the peak of bloom right now and "quite a great sight."

The garden shown here is one of five on his property.

Daylillies are Eurasian perennial herbs (genus Hemerocallis) of the lily family that have short-lived flowers resembling lilies and are widespread in cultivation and landscaping.

Winners announced for the 2019 Genesee County Fair 4-H Master Showman contests

By Billie Owens

Submitted photos and press release:

Congratulations to the Genesee County 4-H members who competed in the 4-H Master Showman Contests at the 2019 Genesee County Fair.

The 4-H Overall Livestock Master Showman Contest was held on Friday, July 19th, at the Genesee County Fair. The winners of the master showmanship classes in dairy cattle, beef cattle, sheep, goats, hogs, poultry, cavies and rabbits qualified to compete in the contest.

At the contest, Maggie Winspear was named the 2019 Overall 4-H Livestock Master Showman. 

The 4-H Livestock Master Showman class winners were:

  • Cavy Master Showman – Maggie Winspear
  • Beef Cattle Master Showman – Caleb Carlson
  • Dairy Cattle Master Showman – Amelia Brewer
  • Meat & Dairy Goat Master Showman – Clare Mathes
  • Poultry Master Showman – Teagan Mathes
  • Rabbit Master Showman – Amelia Brewer
  • Sheep Master Showman – Becky Kron
  • Swine Master Showman – Dillon Weber

On Saturday, July 20th, the 4-H Market Animal Auction Master Showman Contest was held at the Genesee County Fair.

The master showmanship class winners of the Market Animal Auction Lamb, Goat, Hog, Poultry, Beef Steer and Dairy Steer Shows competed in the contest.

Becky Kron was named the 2019 4-H Market Animal Auction Master Showman.

The 4-H market animal auction master showman class winners were:

  • Beef Steer Master Showman – Cole Carlson
  • Dairy Steer Master Showman – Carolyn Sybertz
  • Market Goat Master Showman – Clare Mathes
  • Market Hog Master Showman – Becky Kron
  • Market Lamb Master Showman – Brendan Pimm
  • Market Poultry Master Showman – Teagan Mathes

For more information about the Genesee County 4-H Program, contact the 4-H Office at genesee4h@cornell.edu or 585-343-3040, ext. 131. 

Le Roy high alumni gathered on Oatka Festival weekend

By Billie Owens

Above, a trio from Le Roy High School Class of '55.

Story by Pat Iamon. Photos courtesy of Agnes Snyder.

LE ROY -- This year marked the 22nd Annual Alumni Banquet and the committee decided to bring it back home to Le Roy. In fact, it was held on Friday, July 12 in the old Holy Family School gym; currently the Our Lady of Mercy gym.

More than 150 alumni and guests were in attendance on that beautiful afternoon. The oldest class, the Class of 1944, had four members celebrating their 75th-reunion year. The largest class represented was 16 from the Class of 1958. 

Folks came from far and near and exchanged warm greetings, hugs and kisses.

Joe Riggi from the Class of 1960 emceed the afternoon’s event. He began by asking everyone to stand and say the Pledge of Allegiance, he then requested a moment of silence to honor deceased alumni. Riggi, an Air Force veteran, then asked that all veterans remain standing while everyone else was seated so that the veterans could be recognized for their service with an enthusiastic round of applause.

Don Antinore from the Class of 1958 gave a blessing and a delicious buffet was served up.

Following dinner Riggi introduced Luetta Boothe McColl from the Class of 1950. McColl talked briefly praising the hard work of the founding committee members who were responsible for establishing the Alumni Banquet some 22 years ago: Germaine Lauwereins Bostwick, Class of 1946; Lois Stevens Stella and Margurite Rogers Green, Class of 1947, were recognized for their hard work and dedication over the years. She also thanked the current committee for their work putting this year’s banquet together.

Throughout the afternoon, folks were encouraged to visit the Chinese Auction table which had a variety of baskets donated by many of the classes in attendance and also many gift cards and certificates from local restaurants and businesses. There was also a 50/25/25 raffle. The proceeds of both will go toward next year’s reunion.

(Above are seven members of the Iannello family who attended the reunion.)

Riggi announced that there were seven members of the Iannello family present, he asked that they stand and be recognized. For the Iannello family it was a family reunion, too!

Riggi’s program included a selection of photos of the students over the years in clubs, sporting events, scouts and in class. He also spoke of the history and construction of the Le Roy Post Office and the bridge over the Oatka Creek. Photos of both as well as photos of Downtown Le Roy’s storefronts brought enthusiastic comments from the room.

Toward the end of the event, four large beautifully decorated sheet cakes were served and winners of the raffles were announced.

The event ended around 4 p.m. and folks began to head out, but many of them exited at the back door and took some time to watch the ongoing construction of the apartment buildings below on Mill Street. Someone yelled out for them to turn around for a photo of the old (folks) and new (construction). That brought a chuckle to everyone which was a nice end to an even nicer day!

These ladies took care of registration at the 22nd Annual Alumni Banquet of Le Roy High School.

High school sweethearts Rose and Dick Scott, seated, Class of '58, are still an item.

Photo: The two Medals of Honor awarded to Batavians together for the first time

By Howard B. Owens

Today, The Batavian conducted an exclusive interview with Medal of Honor recipient David Bellavia at the Holland Land Office Museum.

This photo shows the first time the medal awarded to Bellavia and the medal awarded to Charles F. Rand are in the same room together. Bellavia and Rand are the only two Batavians to have received the Medal of Honor.

Our interview today with Bellavia focused on his experience in Washington, D.C., last month when he received the Medal of Honor from President Donald Trump. David and I discuss some of the observations and insights Bellavia has not discussed yet in other interviews.  

Below, a video we did previously about Charles Rand and our video covering Bellavia's Medal of Honor Week, in case you haven't seen it yet, to prep you for the video interview. I hope to have that edited and later to post tonight sometime, or in the morning, at least.

UPDATE 5:30 p.m.: When I posted this, I wasn't thinking about the fact that we have the opening of Batavia Downs tonight. Covering that will greatly delay my ability to finish this video. 

Video Sponsor
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Open House is Aug. 15 to celebrate phase one of renovations at Justice for Children center

By Billie Owens

Press release:

The Justice for Children Advocacy Center would like to cordially invite the community to attend an Open House at the Justice for Children Advocacy Center at 304 E. Main St., Batavia, from noon to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 15th.

This Open House will celebrate the completion of phase one of the renovation of our Batavia location.

We are eager to celebrate this achievement with the community because it has come as the result of eight years of hard work and extraordinary support from countless individuals in our community who want the very best for our kids!

In 2011, the Kiwanis Club of Batavia embarked on an effort to raise funds to create a physical environment at the JFCAC that is as welcoming to kids and families as is the amazing multidisciplinary team members. Thanks to the hard work of the Kiwanians and an incredible amount of support from the community, this effort raised nearly $200,000.

The First Presbyterian Church of Batavia has generously offered the JFCAC a long-term lease to one of its buildings located at 304 E. Main St. in Batavia, allowing us to devote all funds available to creating a space that fully meets the need of our program and the children we serve. 

Construction on phase one of the renovations commenced in March of this year and was completed at the beginning of July.

These renovations have doubled the amount of space available to provide direct services to children and families and have made the entire first floor completely ADA compliant.

The Justice for Children Advocacy Center (JFCAC) was established in 1998, and is the only National Children’s Alliance accredited Child Advocacy Center with offices in Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming counties.

Services available at the JFCAC include forensic interviews, medical exams, victim assistance, mental health counseling, and multidisciplinary team coordination.

Case coordination facilitated by JFCAC enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of team members in the fields of law enforcement, child protection, prosecution, medicine, mental health, and victim advocacy and ensures a child-focused response to cases of physical and sexual abuse.

Since opening in 1998, the JFCAC has coordinated the investigation and response to over 2,500 cases of sexual or physical abuse involving children. In 2018 alone, the JFCAC coordinated 247 cases and served 569 children and caregivers impacted by violence.

The evolution of this plan truly was a community effort and sends a valuable message to the children and families who have been impacted by abuse: You are not alone. Your community supports you. We are all willing to work to keep you happy, healthy, and safe.

We hope that you will join us to celebrate our achievement, our community, and our kids!

For more information about the project, please visit www.justiceforchildrenadvocacycenter.org

Photos: Key to the City ceremony for David Bellavia

By Howard B. Owens

Reader Paula Zack describes herself as an amateur photographer but she did a good job yesterday of capturing in still photos the program yesterday of David Bellavia receiving the Key to the City. We wanted to share them with you.

Farmers Market Coupons still available for low-income adults age 60 and over

By Billie Owens

Press release:

Farmers Market Coupons are still available at the Genesee County Office for the Aging, 2 Bank St., Batavia.

Booklets are available to adults aged 60 years and older who are income-eligible. Proof of age identification must be provided.  

Income guidelines are as follows:

  • Household of one $1,926 per month;
  • Household of two $2,607 per month;
  • Household of three $3,289 per month.

Maureen Estabrooks, Office for the Aging’s coordinator for the program, says, “It still remains, that anyone 60 or older in a household may receive a coupon booklet as long as they are income eligible.

"This means that in a qualifying household, multiple individuals may receive booklets. This program is a wonderful way to help older adults with limited income to purchase healthy fresh produce from our local farmers.”

Questions may be directed to the Genesee County Office for the Aging at 585-343-1611.

Seats still available for Hawley's annual patriot trip to Washington in September

By Billie Owens

Press release: 

Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) announced today that seats are still available for his annual Patriot Trip to Washington, D.C., which will take place Sept. 19 – 22.

This will mark the 12th year Hawley has hosted the trip which allows local veterans and their family members to visit a host of famous military memorials in the Washington, D.C., area. 

The group will be staying in the newly redesigned Bethesda Marriott Hotel, located near downtown Bethesda, Md., featuring an outdoor pool, fitness center, the new M Club Lounge and multiple dining and drink options on premises. Check in will be on Sept. 19 and check out will be Sept. 22.

Anyone is now permitted to sign up, although priority will still be given to residents of the 139th Assembly District. The approximate cost of the trip is $400 per person and that includes meals, transportation and admission to the memorials.

**Those planning to visit the White House must sign up before July 30.

Attractions Hawley plans to visit this year on the trip include:

  • White House (Must sign up before July 30)
  • Gettysburg
  • Capitol
  • Air Force Memorial
  • Pentagon / 911 Memorial
  • World War II Memorial
  • Korean Memorial
  • Vietnam Memorial
  • Stephen F. Udvar Hazy Museum
  • Arlington National Cemetery
  • Wreath Laying Ceremony at Tomb of the Unknowns

If you or a veteran you know want more information about this year’s Patriot Trip XII, please call 585-589-5780 or email carneyj@nyassembly.gov. To view photos from previous years, use the following link: http://vetsdctrip2008.shutterfly.com/.

Law and Order: Octogenarian accused of punching her roommate in the face

By Billie Owens

Marquerite A. Magee, 80, of North Street, Albion, is charged with second-degree harassment. She was arrested at 12:05 a.m. on July 20 on Bank Street in Batavia after allegedly punching her roommate in the face at the assisted living facility where she resides. Magee was issued an appearance ticket for July 30 in Batavia City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Post, assisted by Officer Peter Flanagan.

Michael L. Valle, 38, of Bank Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. He was arrested after allegedly punching a person in the face at 10:08 p.m. July 19 on Bank Street. He was issued an appearance ticket for July 23 in Batavia City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay, assisted by Officer Peter Post.

Brandon C. Dodd, of Highland Park, Batavia, is charged with second-degree harassment. Dodd was arrested after an incident at 12:51 a.m. on Pearl Street in Batavia in which he allegedly struck an individual in the face. He was issued an appearance ticket for July 30 in Batavia City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Peter Flanagan.

Bradley R. Jordan, 26, of East Main Street, Batavia, is charged with first-degree criminal contempt, second-degree harassment, and endangering the welfare of a child. At 3 p.m. on July 19 on East Main Street in Batavia it is alleged that Jordan struck a person who has an order of protection against him. He was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed without bail. He was due back in court today (July 24). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Bobby Lee Mobley, 34, of Watson Street, Batavia, is charged with second-degree burglary and second-degree criminal contempt. He was arrested on the charges July 20 and jailed without bail following an investigation of an incident that occurred at 6:35 p.m. on July 19 on Maple Street in Batavia. He is accused of entering a residence of a person who had a stay away order of protection against him. He is due in Batavia City Court at a later date. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Stephen Quider, assisted by Sgt. Christopher Camp.

Tatiana Celeste Lugo, 24, no permanent address, Batavia, is charged with first-degree criminal contempt. Lugo was arrest at 12:46 a.m. on July 19 on North Spruce Street, Batavia, following the investigation into a violation of a court order. She was arraigned in Batavia City Court and jailed in lieu of $5,000 cash or bond. She was due back in city court today (July 24). The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Flanagan, assisted by Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Kiha S. McNear, 21, of Walnut Street, Batavia, is charged with petit larceny. McNear was arrested July 14 on an arrest warrant out of Batavia City Court. It is alleged that McNear stole a bicycle at 11 p.m. on June 28 on Ellicott Street. He was arraigned in city court and put in jail in lieu of $1,000 cash or bond. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Duane K. Miller, 54, of Linwood Avenue, Warsaw, is charged with illegally inhaling toxic vapors in public places. He was arrested at 2:42 p.m. on July 22 in the 200 block of West Main Street in Batavia after he was allegedly located huffing an aerosol container in the parking of a local business. He was issued an appearance ticket for Batavia City Court and released. He is due in Batavia City Court on July 30 to answer the charge. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Marc Lawrence, assisted by Officer Jason Ivison.

Duane K. Miller, 54, of Linwood Avenue, Warsaw, is charged with illegal use of toxic vapors. He was arrested at 5:26 p.m. July 23 in the 4100 block of West Main Street Road in Batavia for allegedly huffing cans of air duster in the parking lot of a local business. He is due in Batavia City Court on July 30 to answer the charge. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Peter Post.

Ronald D. Williams, 42, of Ellicott Street, Batavia, is charged with unlawfully growing cannabis and unlawful possession of marijuana. He was arrested at 8:45 p.m. on July 18 on Ellicott Street. It is alleged that Williams was growing marijuana plants on the roof of his residence. He was issued an appearance ticket for July 30 in Batavia City Court. The case was handled by Batavia Police Officer Christopher Lindsay.

Details emerge during opening statements and early testimony in Liberty Street murder case

By Lauren Leone

Jurors listened closely to opening statements and testimony about the bludgeoning death of 47-year-old Raymond L. Morgan, of 111 Liberty St., Batavia, in the third day of the Richard D. Hanes trial.

District Attorney Lawrence Friedman drew the attention of jurors as he described the brutality of Morgan’s death in his opening statement. Friedman told the jury that at least 24 blunt force trauma injuries, most likely caused by blows from a hammer, were sustained by Morgan’s body.

As he explained the timeline of events on the night of July 24, 2018, Friedman revealed the perpetrator dropped 12–15 feet from a second-floor window of Morgan’s apartment and fled the scene in the direction of Ellicott Street after the incident occurred. 

During the course of the investigation, Batavia PD investigators collected blood samples matching the DNA profiles of both Morgan and Hanes from a bathroom at 5 Thorpe St., Batavia, which is the rooming house where Hanes resided at the time. Friedman said detectives will testify to the significance of this finding later in the trial. 

In defense attorney Frederick Rarick’s opening statement, he described Morgan's murder as "bloody, vicious, in your face."

Rarick explained to jurors that Hanes was in the vicinity of the Liberty Street home on July 24 to purchase drugs from Morgan. Rarick emphasized that neither forensic evidence at the scene nor witness testimonies will prove Hanes as the perpetrator.

Rarick told jurors that police did not ask for blood or fingerprint samples from other witnesses once Hanes was questioned and his DNA sample was taken. Rarick’s last words in his opening statement — that Hanes had no motive to allegedly commit the murder — rang loudly in the silent courtroom. 

Damien Boyd was called by Friedman to testify because he lived at 111 Liberty St. and witnessed Morgan’s badly beaten body moments after the attack. Boyd said he briefly spoke to Hanes outside the house on July 24 about 10 minutes before he heard banging noises coming from Morgan’s room. 

Boyd said he saw an air conditioning unit thrown from the window of Morgan’s room and a white male drop to the ground shortly after. Boyd observed blood on the man’s hands, but he could not identify the individual due to the poorly lit surroundings. 

Boyd said that the man who had fallen picked up an object Boyd described as "1 ½ to 2 feet long with an L shape on the end." Yet, Rarick pointed out during cross-examination that Boyd previously failed to choose the correct hammer from a lineup of eight hammers, one of which was the weapon used in the beating.

Hanes faces a life sentence if the jury returns a guilty verdict for his second-degree murder charge. Jurors will draw nearer to a verdict today in Genesee County Court.

Jury impaneled in the Liberty Street murder case, testimony begins today

By Lauren Leone

Jurors have been selected in the case of Richard D. Hanes, who is charged in the bludgeoning death of Raymond L. Morgan, 47, of Batavia.

After two days of questioning prospective jurors, defense attorney Frederick Rarick and District Attorney Lawrence Friedman selected a jury composed of eight women, four men and six alternates who swore to serve as unbiased fact-finders in the case. 

Hanes, a 37-year-old former Holley resident, is facing a second-degree murder charge after allegedly beating Morgan beyond recognition in his 111 Liberty St., Batavia, apartment last July. 

Morgan was pronounced dead when police arrived at the scene. Morgan's cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head. Batavia PD officers and detectives are expected to testify to their investigation in the coming days of testimony.  

Friedman repeatedly asked juror candidates yesterday whether the use and sale of illegal drugs would affect their fairness since Morgan had a previous conviction for criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Rarick urged potential jurors to admit whether graphic testimony and images of the blood-covered crime scene would cause them to be impartial. Judge Charles Zambito excused a few juror candidates when they said that the forensic evidence may be too overwhelming.

The jury will now have the opportunity to listen as attorneys deliver their opening statements and question witnesses at 9:30 a.m. today in Genesee County Court. The first day of testimony coincides with the anniversary of Morgan’s death.

Searls Road bridge now open

By Billie Owens

Important Notice

Effective today, the bridge on Searls Road between North Byron Road and Tower Hill Road in Byron is open, the GC Highway Department announced this afternoon.

It was closed for replacement.

Law and Order: Le Roy man accused of grabbing and attempting to punch deputy while resisting arrest

By Billie Owens

Ryan M. Sharlow, 49, of West Bergen Road, Le Roy, is charged with criminal mischief and resisting arrest. At 12:15 p.m. on July 16 on West Main Street Road in Le Roy, deputies were conducting an investigation into an incident in which Sharlow allegedly damaged the property of another person. While attempting to take Sharlow into custody, he allegedly tried to resist arrest by grabbing and attempting to punch a deputy. He was issued appearance tickets for Le Roy Town Court on Aug. 8. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Christopher Erion.

Jessica Leigh Culver, 29, of Walker Road, Le Roy, is charged with: criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree; operating a motor vehicle without an inspection certificate; and aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle in the second degree. At 8:43 p.m. on July 21, Culver was stopped on Batavia Stafford Townline Road for alleged vehicle and traffic violations. It was determined upon investigation that she was driving on a suspended license. A subsequent search of the vehicle allegedly led to the discovery of controlled substances in her possession. She was issued appearance ticklets for Aug. 15 in Stafford Town Court. The case was handled by Genesee County Sheriff's Deputy Andrew Mullen, assisted by Deputy Erik Andre.

Alexandra R. Lasky, 29, and Alexander Scheg, 24, both of Seven Springs Road, Stafford, are charged with unlawful growing of cannabis by an unlicensed person. At 12:55 p.m. on June 26, Genesee County Sheriff's deputies responded to an address on Seven Springs Road following the report of a domestic incident and an unlawful marijuana-growing operation. After an investigation, they were issued an appearance ticket for unlawful growing on cannabis. Lasky was also issued an appearance ticket for criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree following the alleged discovery of a controlled substance on location. Both are due in Batavia Town Court on Aug. 13. The case was handled by Deputy Ryan DeLong, assisted by Deputy Ronald Welker. The investigation was also assisted by Deputy Lonnie Nati and members of the GC Drug Task Force.

Whiz Khalifa plays concert at Darien, 33 arrested

By Howard B. Owens

The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Whiz Khalifa Concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Sunday:

Arthur J. Meaney IV, 19, of West River Road, Grand Island, is charged with criminal possession of a forged instrument, 2nd, resisting arrest and obstructing governmental administration, 2nd, after allegedly being found in possession of a fictitious license and then refusing to be placed under arrest by struggling with deputies. Meaney was arraigned in Darien Court and jailed in lieu of $2500 bail.

Elijah R. Giles, 24, of East State Street, Albion, is charged with obstructing governmental administration, 2nd, and disorderly conduct after allegedly causing a disturbance in the medical treatment area at Darien Lake and then interfering with the process of his arrest. 

Ryan A. Diana, 21, of Britany Lane, Pittsford, is charged with obstructing governmental administration, 2nd, and disorderly conduct after allegedly causing a disturbance in the medical treatment area at Darien Lake and then interfering with the process of his arrest. 

Matthew D. Pantera, 25, of Homecrest Drive, Amherst, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.

Michelle M. Seneca, 42, of Cosad Road, Seneca Falls, is charged with disorderly conduct after allegedly causing a disturbance in the Darien Lake Hotel.

Emily C. Kornack, 18, of Landmark Lane, Pittsford, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return.

Jaycee V. Jones Jr., 18, of Clarence Avenue, Buffalo, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly punching another person in the eye.

Joseph M. Folvarick, 42, of Wheeler Street, Tonawanda, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly having physical contact with another person. 

Darius A. Hamilton, 30, of Kehr Street, Buffalo, is charged with obstructing governmental administration, 2nd, and trespass after allegedly refusing to leave the concert venue after being told to leave several times and then interfering with the process of his arrest.

Dominic G. Santamaria, 22, of Overbrook Avenue, Tonawanda, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly pushing a Live Nation security officer. 

Brennan K. Callen, 18, of Flynn Road, Rochester, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana. 

Nicholas G. Curre, 21, of Corral Drive, Penfield, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, and trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue and then entering the concert venue after having been ejected and arrested and told not to return. 

Connor T. O’Keefe, 20, of Autumn Lane, Lewiston, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return. 

A 17-year-old of Rumsey Road, Buffalo, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, and trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue and then entering the concert venue after having been ejected and arrested and told not to return. 

Timothy J. Lloyd, 19, of South Grosvenor Avenue, Brighton, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, and trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue and then entering the concert venue after having been ejected and arrested and told not to return. 

Matthew E. Dickerson, 21, of Timberwood Drive, Hilton, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana. 

Brianna L. Stiegler, 19, of Graystone Lane, Orchard Park, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, and criminal Impersonation, 2nd, after allegedly reentering the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return and then identifying herself as her sister. 

(name redacted upon request), 20, of Misty Meadow Way, Fairport, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, and trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue and then entering the concert venue after having been ejected and arrested and told not to return. 

Devin M. O’Dell, 19, of Smith Road, Canandaigua, is charged with disorderly conduct after allegedly causing a disturbance at the concert venue exit. 

Gray H. Benhal, 20, of Middle Cheshire Road, Canandaigua, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return. 

Austin J. Allen, 19 of Clovermeadow Lane, Farmington, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return.

Christopher A. Rasbin, 21, of West Avenue, Newark, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, and trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue and then entering the concert venue after having been ejected and arrested and told not to return.

A 17-year-old of Proximity Lane, Victor, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return.

Jacob G. Damelio, 19, of Angels Path, Webster, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.

A 17-year-old of Edendery Circle, Fairport, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return.

Abbey L. Heist, 20, of Chesapeake Lane, West Henrietta, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.

Kaylee A. Horn, 20, of Elaine Drive, Rochester, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.

A 17-year-old of Wheat Road, Clifton Springs, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana. 

Derrick C. Jones, 18, of South Street, Clifton Springs, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana. 

Thomas J. Miller Jr., 18, of Edgemere Drive, Rochester, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana. 

Sonia D. Vasquez, 20, of Underwood Avenue, Hilton, arrested for criminal possession of a weapon, 4th, after allegedly being found in possession of a stun gun while entering the Darien Lake parking lot. 

Jacob L. Masterson, 18, of County Road 15, Filmore, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana. 

Thomas C. Emerson, 18, of Skyline Drive, Corning, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.

Eight arrests announced following Thomas Rhett concert

By Howard B. Owens

The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Thomas Rhett concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on July 19:

John K. Turton, 38 of Coburn Road, Ulysses, Pa., is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return. Turton also entered the concessions area in an attempt to avoid arrest. John was arraigned in Darien Court and jailed in lieu of $250 bail.

Zachary A. Bellin, 21, of Livingston Avenue, Syracuse, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to enter the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return. 

Gina M. Quattrone, 21, of Clearview Drive, Spencerport, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly entering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return. 

Abbey J. Gardner, 18, of Kemp Drive, Macedon, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.

Remy M. Cummings, 18, of Cornwall Drive, Macedon, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.

Joshua E. Boozer, 33, of Park Avenue, Warren, Pa., is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly threatening to strike a Live Nation security guard with a chair inside the venue. 

Emily R. Boozer, 26, of Park Avenue, Warren, Pa., is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly grabbing a Live Nation security guard by the neck scratching him with her nails.

Keri A. Ramsey, 24, of Old Buffalo Road, Attica, is charged with driving while intoxicated and driving with over .08-percent BAC after allegedly being involved in an accident on the Darien Lake Employee Road.

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