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Press release:

In an extremely rare, once-in-a lifetime opportunity, Buffalo public elementary school students from PS 97 Harvey Austin will make contact with astronauts on the International Space Station via Amateur Radio. PS 97 was one of only 20 schools worldwide selected for this event, which is scheduled for the first week in March.

The Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) event will be managed by an international consortium of amateur radio organizations and space agencies including National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Whitworth Ferguson Planetarium at SUNY Buffalo State, and the Lancaster Amateur Radio Club (LARC).

Pam Ware, Corfu resident and member of LARC, holds an Amateur Extra license AB3PW, and is the liaison for the team of radio operators in providing hands-on experience and training for the students.

“This is a very challenging and very exciting opportunity for these students to learn about space travel and exploration, how the astronauts live and work in space, and how the students can, even at a young age, become radio amateurs and learn cutting-edge technologies for the emerging field of interplanetary communications,” Ware said.

LARC was founded in 1987 by Western New York ham radio operators to advance the amateur radio hobby in the area. Since the founding, LARC has grown from just a few members to the largest amateur radio club in Western New York.

Registration is officially open for all divisions of Batavia Minor League Youth Baseball for girls and boys ages 4 to 10. You are welcome to come to Dick's Sporting Goods on Veterans Memorial Drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, Feb. 27, to register.

Also, online registration is now available. Log onto the league's Web site via the LeagueLineup.com portal at: 

http://www.leaguelineup.com/bataviaminorleague

Click on 2016 registration on the right side and proceed.

Any questions feel free to contact local league President Dan Utter via Facebook or e-mail to: bataviaminorleague@gmail.com

A former Hells Angels vice president whom authorities say is an Oakfield resident entered a guilty plea in U.S. District Court today to a methamphetamine distribution charge.

James Henry McAuley faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a potential $4 million fine.

The Democrat and Chronicle reported this morning that McAuley intended to plead guilty to help spare his wife, Donna Boon, 50, of Oakfield, a potential prison term.

Boon also entered a guilty plea today, to a count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, methamphetamine.

Federal prosecutors accused McAuley of leading a methamphetamine ring from 2002 through July 9, 2010. At the time, McAuley was reportedly a vice president with the Hells Angels.

McAuley was reportedly obtaining the meth from a source in Monterey, Calif.

According to authorities:

The defendant and other members of the conspiracy traveled to California on numerous occasions to obtain pound-size quantities of methamphetamine from the supplier they then transported or shipped from California to the Rochester area where another member of the conspiracy would sell it to their customers.

On July 9, 2010, federal and local authorities, working together, concluded a lengthy investigation that included drug buys, wiretaps and video surveillance, and arrested five people on meth distribution charges.

The five arrested did not include McAuley, but did include Boon, along with Donald G. Vanelli II, who was eventually sentenced to 17 1/2 years in prison.

The charges against Boon from that arrest were eventually dropped and Boon contacted The Batavian to proclaim her innocence.

McAuley was arrested in April 2008 on racketeering charges and authorities contend that McAuley continued to maintain control over the meth ring.

According to prosecutors:

McAuley’s wife, Donna Boon, distributed quantities of methamphetamine to others, including an individual in Genesee County, who further distributed the drugs to customers in the Genesee County area. Boon admitted to trafficking up to 30 grams of methamphetamine.

From the press release:

These pleas are part of a larger investigation that resulted in the indictment and arrest of members and associates of the Rochester and Monterey (California) Hell's Angels for drug trafficking and racketeering-related offenses in February 2012. Along with McAuley and Boon, Monterey (California) Hell's Angels President Richard W. Mar, and Jeffrey A. Tyler, were charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Three other defendants -- Paul Griffin, Richard E. Riedman, and Gordon L. Montgomery – were convicted for their roles in the methamphetamine conspiracy. Judge Siragusa sentenced Griffin to probation and Riedman to 37 months in prison; Montgomery is awaiting sentencing.

Rochester Hell's Angels member Robert W. Moran Jr., along with Gina Tata, are charged in the same indictment with assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering activity, and Moran and Tata are charged with conspiracy to commit assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering activity. In addition, Tata is charged with being an accessory after the fact to the assault and conspiracy.  Another defendant, Timothy M. Stone, was convicted of being an accessory after the fact to the assault and conspiracy, and was sentenced to 12 months in prison.

McAuley and Boon are scheduled to appear for sentencing at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., respectively, May 24.

Some of the prior related stories:

• Alleged heist of scrap metal thwarted by Sheriff's deputies
• Five suspected meth dealers busted in early morning raids
• FBI agent's affidavit reveals some details of alleged meth ring investigation
• Le Roy meth dealer given time in federal prison
• Batavia woman proclaims her innocence after meth dealing case dropped by feds
• Three Genesee County residents accused of being part of Hells Angels meth distribution ring
• Men caught stealing tons of scrap metal convicted in federal court

The Warming Center in Batavia will be open tonight due to wind chill temperatures below 15 degrees.
Women and children in need of a warm place to stay can call 585-993-6371 by 8 p.m. for transportation to the Warming Center from either McDonald's in Batavia.

Have you ever wondered about your ancestors? Who they were, where they came from, or what you have in common with them? Now is the time to start your search at Richmond Memorial Library.

A series of five free classes on exploring your family history will be offered at the library this spring.

They will be held on Tuesdays, March 29 through April 26, beginning at 6 p.m.

Please contact the library at 343-9550 to register for the geneology class series.

The library is located at 19 Ross St. in the City of Batavia.

Press release:

To meet the evolving transit needs of customers in Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, and Wyoming counties, RTS has launched a Regional Service Efficiency Study.

The purpose of the study is to identify service improvements and connections across the seven counties, and a key component of that study involves input from customers in those areas. RTS invites customers to share their thoughts by participating in an online survey and attending public workshops in February and March.

The online survey can be accessed through March 4 by using the following URL: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/rtsservices.

In Genesee County, an information session will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 23, at County Building #2, 3837 W. Main Street Road, Batavia.

More information about the study can be found at https://www.myrts.com/Planning-Projects/Regional-Service-Efficiency-Study. 

For all other information, visit www.myRTS.com.

About RTS

Regional Transit Service (RTS) is a regional transit authority established by New York State with more than 900 employees who proudly serve customers and business partners in Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne and Wyoming counties. Recognized as one of the best-run transit systems in the nation, RTS provides safe, reliable and convenient public bus transportation to more than 18 million people each year. We carry out our mission by connecting our customers to jobs, school, healthcare, shopping and recreational activities every day. For more information, visit www.myRTS.com.

Jonathan D. Knauss is indicted for the crime of third-degree burglary. It is alleged that between August 2014 and June 2015 Knauss knowingly entered or unlawfully remained inside a building in the Town of Pembroke with the intent to commit a crime. In count two, the defendant is accused of third-degree grand larceny, a Class D felony, for allegedly stealing property, in this case brass, valued in excess of $3,000. In count three, Knauss is accused of criminal possession of stolen property, 3rd, a Class D felony, for allegedly knowingly possessing stolen property with the intent to benefit himself or someone other than the owner, or to impede the recovery by an owner of the property, when the value of that property was more than $3,000.

Press release:

A workshop geared specifically for those suffering with multiple sclerosis will focus on physical therapy, exercise, and yoga as tools to manage symptoms, gain strength and balance, and improve quality of life. MS, Yoga & You will be held from 1 - 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 27, at Summit Physical Therapy in Batavia.

Gretchen Hawley, DPT has additional certification in treating patients with multiple sclerosis. She lives and works in Boston and is one of only two MS cerfitied physical therapists in Boston. Patricia Hawley is a registered yoga teacher at Blue Pearl Yoga in Batavia. Together they will present information on how exercise and physical therapy can benefit MS as well as give instruction in simple yoga poses that may alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, spasticity, and incontinence.

“My MS patients who follow an exercise regimen and are consistent with their physical therapy program have a marked improvement over those who rely on medication alone,” says Gretchen Hawley. “And neurologists agree that those dealing with MS can improve their quality of life with the addition of exercise.”

“Many people think that you have to be very flexible to begin a yoga practice,” according to Patricia Hawley “but often the people who benefit the most from yoga are those who have limited mobility. It’s all about going slow and choosing the right class for your needs.”

Participants are encouraged to bring their own yoga mat but it is not necessary; mats will be available at the workshop.

The event will be held at Summit Physical Therapy, 99 Med Tech Drive, #104, Batavia. Cost for the workshop is $35 and seating is limited to 25 people. Anyone interested may register at www.bp-yoga.com or by calling 585.813.8623

Press release:

A panel featuring William J. Hochul Jr., United States Attorney for the Western District of New York, who oversees the prosecution of federal criminal cases in our region, and Deanna Axe, the mother of a heroin overdose victim who founded Addicted to Hope, will be held from 1:30 to approximately 3 p.m. at Batavia High School on Monday, Feb. 29.

They will be joined by representatives from local law enforcement, the medical profession, and treatment/prevention education to address the significant and dire consequences of prescription drug abuse and heroin addiction that is impacting our community.

Sponsored by Act Genesee, a growing coalition  of community volunteers whose mission is to promote healthy and safe choices through education and action, the forum is titled, “Pay Attention: Addressing Prescription Drug Abuse and Heroin Addiction in our Community.”

In addition to presentations by Hochul and Axe, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of the panel members, fill out a brief survey to help the Coalition determine the best course of action for following up on this presentation, and meet other like-minded individuals who share a concern about promoting a healthy and substance-free lifestyle for individuals and families in our community.

Coalition President Anita Strollo urges all to attend and says, “We really want to raise awareness. This is a problem that is happening. It’s here. And it is serious and devastating.” She encourages involvement from all ages, noting that, with abuse and addiction crossing all age and socio-economic groupings, so should be the awareness of and attack on these growing problems.

John Vincent Winecki, 23, of Buffalo Street, Alexander, is charged with DWI, driving with a BAC of .18 or greater and stopping/parking on highway. Winecki was arrested by Deputy Chad Cummings following an investigation into what was reported as a motor-vehicle accident at 3:37 a.m., Sunday, on Route 98 near the American Legion Hall. (Initial Report)

Ashley Michaela Stewart, 19, of E. 227 St., Bronx, is charged with second-degree assault. Stewart allegedly struck a female in the head with an iron while in a dorm room at College Village. The victim was injured. Stewart was released under supervision of Genesee Justice.

Benjamin G. Evans IV, 27, of State Street, Batavia, is charged with trespass. Evans allegedly entered the Dollar General Store after previously being banned from the premises.

Ryo Hiroshige, 21, of North Spruce Street, Batavia, is charged with harassment, 2nd, and endangering the welfare of a child. Hiroshige was allegedly involved in a domestic incident. He was jailed on $5,000 bail.

Carissa J. Visalli, 26, of North Lyon Street, Batavia, was arrested on a warrant related to a charge of improper parking at night. Visalli turned herself in, posted $100 bail and was released.

William P. Langdon Jr., 34, of Keever Avenue, Lackwanna, is charged with DWI, moving from lane unsafely, failure to use designated lane and following too closely. Officer Arick Perkins was dispatched to Walnut Street, Batavia, at 8:37 p.m. Feb. 15 for the report of an erratic driver. A 2002 Pontiac Montana was located and stopped. Langdon was taken into custody and allegedly refused a breath test. He was jailed on $2,500 bail.

Joseph M. Durzewski, 22, of North Street, Batavia, is charged with driving while impaired by alcohol. Durzewski was stopped at 3:22 a.m. Feb. 12 on Law Street, by Officer Matthew Wojtaszczyk.

A 17-year-old resident of Batavia is charged with criminal mischief and unlawful possession of marijuana. The youth allegedly punched through a glass window at 1 City Centre, Batavia. He was jailed on $1,000 bail (name withheld by Batavia PD).

Anthony Devon Alexander, 42, of South Main Street, Batavia, is charged with aggravated family offense (more than one offense within five years), criminal contempt, 2nd, criminal trespass, 2nd. Alexander allegedly went to the home of a person he was barred from contacting by court order and stayed and refused to leave the residence at 2:05 p.m. Sunday. Alexander was jailed on $5,000 bail.

Jacob Robert Kingdollar, 20, of West Leet Road, Albion, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana. Kingdollar was allegedly found in possession of marijuana by Deputy Kevin Forsyth while at Bunnel Park, Town of Le Roy, at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday.

A motor-vehicle is reported at  8960 Alexander Road, Batavia, with unknown injuries, though a person may be having a seizure.

Town of Batavia fire and Mercy EMS in route.

The location is in front of the American Legion Hall.

UPDATE 4:02 a.m.: The vehicle is blocking. There's no medical issue. Mercy EMS is going back in service.

UPDATE 4:03 a.m.: A deputy is conducting a field test.

A group of Marine recruits about to enter boot camp were given some tips and pointers that will help them survive the grueling weeks at Parris Island, S.C.. The NCOs from the Batavia recruitment office conduct the basic training course the third Saturday of each month for new recruits. Potential recruits are invited to attend and observe and can participate in some drills, but can't fully participate until they pass their military physical. The training covers such basics as standing at attention, parade rest and turning, as well as classes and lectures on Marine life and history.

The local staff includes SSgt. Stephen Porter, Sgt. Joseph Dazey, Sgt. Derek Yevtich and Sgt. Matthew Page. 

Above, Sydney Reilly gives a cookie baking demonstration during Genesee County 4-H Club's annual public presentation day at Byron-Bergen High School. 

At the event, students ages 5 to 18  give presentations in front of their peers and a panel of volunteer judges.

Presentations include everything from illustrated talks using posters, PowerPoint slideshows, to live demonstrations and even impromptu topics.

The event is designed to help students improve their public speaking skills while developing self-confidence, poise, self-esteem, stage presence and knowledge.

Sydney's judges were Bob and Ester Leadley.

Below, Clare Mathes during her presentation and then talking with judges Denise Chatt and Karleigh Chatt. Also presenting, Teegan Mathes.

A motor-vehicle accident, unknown injuries, is reported on front of the Home Depot at 4181 Veterans Memorial Drive. Town of Batavia Fire Department and Mercy medics are responding.

UPDATE 11:38 a.m.: The town's assignment is back in service.

A driver who was being followed by police in the city allegedly sped up and tried to evade officers somewhere off East Avenue, then stopped his vehicle and fled on foot. The driver is believed to have an expired driving permit only, not a license. He was driving a white vehicle with a broken bumper when a caller reported him to dispatch. Also, the person was the subject earlier today of a harassment complaint.

Press release:

Genesee County Treasurer Scott D. German announced today that he will be seeking a fourth term as County Treasurer in this November’s election.

German is in his 23rd year in the office, the last 12 of which have been as Treasurer. Among the many accomplishments of the Treasurer’s Office is the extremely successful 2010 refinancing of county debt, which saved Genesee County taxpayers more than $1,000,000 in interest expense over six years. Another highlight of German’s tenure is the successful office merger with Real Property. Merging operations with the Real Property Department has allowed for the sharing of resources, which in turn has saved county taxpayers money.

As Treasurer, German is the chief fiscal officer and tax enforcement officer for the County. Among a wide range of responsibilities as County Treasurer, German is responsible for the safeguarding of all county monies, the processing of county payroll, the processing of vendor payments, collection of delinquent taxes, tax foreclosures, maintaining the accounting records, overseeing of the independent audit and working with state and federal auditors.

German hopes the voters of Genesee County return him to office this November so he can continue serving the people of this fine county.

German holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management with a concentration in Finance from the State University of New York, College at Brockport. German is a past president (2012) of the New York State County Treasurers and Finance Officers Association and currently serves as one of two New York State delegates to the National Association of County Collectors, Treasurers & Finance Officers. He is also a member of the 2004 class of Leadership Genesee. German is a lifelong resident of Genesee County.

Press release:

Undersheriff William A. Sheron Jr., who recently announced his intention to seek the Republican endorsement for this fall’s election to Genesee County Sheriff, announced today that Sergeant Gregory H. Walker will join him as his Undersheriff.

Walker, 50, has more than 30 years of law enforcement experience, serving two years with the Attica Police Department before joining the Genesee County Sheriff’ s Office in October 1987. Over the course of his 28-year career with the Sheriff’s Office, Walker has served in the ranks of Deputy Sheriff-Road Patrol, Investigator, Sergeant-Road Patrol and his current position of Sergeant-Criminal Investigation Division.

Sergeant Walker is a graduate of the Monroe Community College Public Safety Training Academy-Basic Course for Police Officers, New York State Municipal Police Training Council on Police Supervision Course, United States Drug Enforcement Agency Drug Law Enforcement Course, New York State Division of Criminal Justice Field Training Officer, New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services General Topics Instructor, the International Association of Chiefs of Police/National Highway Traffic Safety Association Drug Recognition Expert Instructor and the F.B.I. National Academy in Quantico, Va.

Walker became the first certified Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) in Genesee County and now serves as one of the lead instructors for the DRE program in New York State. He is also a Field Training Officer, Field Training Supervisor, Standardized Field Sobriety Tests Instructor, Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement Instructor, Domestic Violence Resource Officer and Drug Impairment for Educational Professionals Instructor.

Over his career Walker has received numerous departmental awards including Officer of the Year in 1990; Meritorious Service in 1989, 1991, 1992, 1995, 2003, 2008, 2012; Commendation awards in 1992, 1994 and 2013; and Kiwanis Club Officer of the Year in 1991.

Sergeant Walker currently serves on the New York State Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Technical Advisory Panel (TAP) and is a regional coordinator for the DRE program. Walker is an active member of the Le Roy Republican Committee.

Sergeant Walker is a resident of the Town of Le Roy. He is a graduate of Attica Central School and Genesee Community College with a degree in Criminal Justice. He and his wife, Michele, are parents to a family of five children and one grandchild.

“I could not ask for a better person to join me as my Undersheriff. Greg is an outstanding individual of the utmost integrity who is extremely well respected amongst the law enforcement community. Together we possess nearly 50 years of law enforcement administrative and supervisory experience, which is crucial in directing the operations of the Sheriff’s Office,” said Undersheriff Sheron.