CJ Country News

CJ Country News Local, national and world news every half hour in the morning and at the top of the hour in the afternoon.

06/11/2026

CJ Country Local News for Thur, June 11

An erratic driver was detained at an area school. Officials at the Addison Central School District say an individual was held Wednesday morning after reports of driving erratically on campus at Tuscarora during student arrival. According to the district, the vehicle caused a disruption near school buses before stopping, at which point a staff member contacted the school resource officer, who responded within minutes. Bus drop-off procedures were temporarily rerouted to the district office parent drop-off area as a precaution. The individual was detained, the vehicle was towed, and the district is cooperating with the Steuben County Sheriff's Department in the ongoing investigation. School officials confirmed that all students, staff, and families were safe.

A Monroe County resident is facing a felony charge following an alleged incident inside the Livingston County Jail. The Sheriff's Office reports that 25yo Christopher Montanez, who was already incarcerated, punched and broke the window of his cell door. He was charged with felony Criminal Mischief. Montanez was arraigned in Livingston County CAP Court and was released on his own recognizance under New York law. He remains in custody on unrelated charges.

An investigation into an altercation at a restaurant results in a Batavia man’s arrest. According to Batavia Police, 43yo Patrick Cummings grabbed another person by the neck. He was charged with Criminal Obstruction of Breathing. Cummings was issued an appearance ticket and released.

Two people in Batavia are accused of tampering with someone’s vehicle. Batavia Police say Hailey McLane and Kailyn Beatty conspired together to tamper during the incident. They were arrested and charged with Conspiracy. McLane and Beatty were both charged with conspiracy. Beatty was additionally charged with Criminal Tampering. Both were released and are due in Batavia City Court at a later date.

The world’s largest working steam locomotive, Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014, is traveling through Western New York today. It’s part of a cross-country tour celebrating America’s 250th birthday. The massive train passed through Erie County and was on display near Buffalo Wednesday before continuing east. Today, it is scheduled to arrive in Silver Springs at 11:45 this morning and depart around noon. The locomotive will then cross the Genesee River Arch Bridge in Letchworth State Park at approximately 12:20 this afternoon. Big Boy is expected to arrive at the Hornell Erie Depot Museum this afternoon at 2 for a half hour whistle-stop. Also, officials remind spectators to stay safe and at least 25 feet from the tracks to avoid any potential injury.

The famed Union Pacific Big Boy No. 4014 travels through the area today as part of a historic coast-to-coast tour celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. During its Western New York swing today, the locomotive is scheduled to depart Buffalo, pause in Silver Springs, pass through Letchworth State Park, and stop at the Hornell Erie Depot Museum. Union Pacific emphasizes safety at all events, reminding spectators to stay at least 25 feet from tracks, avoid trespassing, and remain alert around active rail lines. For more information, including today’s schedule, visit up.com.

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory that includes Livingston and Orleans counties. It runs today from noon to 8 pm. Weather officials say heat index values are expected to reach the mid-90s due to a combination of hot temperatures and high humidity. Officials warn that prolonged exposure to these conditions may lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, remain in air-conditioned spaces when possible, limit strenuous outdoor activities to the morning or evening, and check on vulnerable family members and neighbors. Anyone showing signs of heat stroke should be moved to a cool location and emergency services should be contacted immediately.

The state's Medicaid program will receive over $2.25 million as part of a $36.5 million multi-state settlement with CVS. That’s according to New York Attorney General Letitia James who says 37 states and the U.S. Department of Justice secured the agreement after claims the pharmacy chain fraudulently overbilled Medicaid for insulin prescriptions from 2010-2020. The coalition of attorneys general says CVS knowingly dispensed more insulin to customers than they needed while maintaining that they were reporting the correct amount of insulin in their prescriptions. These fraudulent claims allowed the company to rake in millions in extra reimbursements from Medicaid for insulin distribution. Under the settlement, CVS will pay more than $25 million to state Medicaid programs across the country.

A reminder to residents that operating ATVs and off-road vehicles on public highways or sidewalks is prohibited. Authorities say parents, guardians, and ATV owners must not allow children under 16 to operate ATVs in violation of state or local laws. Youth aged 14-15 may operate ATVs under adult supervision, on family-owned or leased land, or on permitted lands if they have completed a DMV-approved ATV safety course and carry the certificate. Children under 14 may operate ATVs only under adult supervision or on family-owned or leased land. Violations may result in fines, towing, impounding of vehicles, and liability for injuries or damages caused by ATV accidents.

A reminder to get screened for colon and prostate cancers. Approximately 30,000 men die from prostate cancer and about 50,000 men from colorectal cancer in the United States each year. Starting at the age of 50, men should be screened regularly for colon and prostate cancers. Health screenings could save your life. Ask your doctor about health screenings today. The Cancer Services Program of the Finger Lakes Region offers free colorectal screenings to those who qualify. For more information, call 1-877-803-807

New York’s annual “Get Outdoors & Get Together Day” will take place this Saturday. It’ll be at more than 20 locations statewide as part of the Governor’s “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative. The inclusive, family-friendly events are designed to welcome people of all ages and abilities to explore state parks and public lands while highlighting expanded accessibility investments under the “These Lands are for Everyone” initiative. Activities will include fishing, hiking, birding, archery, paddling, camping demonstrations, and family games and crafts. Organizers say all sites will feature accessible programming, adaptive equipment, sensory-friendly resources, and safety guidance to ensure everyone can enjoy the outdoors comfortably and sustainably. Find out more at https://www.ny.gov/programs/get-outdoors-get-together-day.

06/10/2026

CJ Country Local News for Wed, June 10

Two Livingston County residents were arrested following a traffic stop. The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office says 34yo Cameron Velazquez of Mount Morris was pulled over on River Road in the Town of York for traffic violations, but fled before later stopping at a residence on Main Street. Deputies took both Velazquez and his passenger, 49yo Amber Torregrossa of York, into custody at the scene. Velazquez faces charges including unlawful fleeing, aggravated unlicensed operation, and drug paraphernalia-related offenses, while Torregrossa faces felony charges including tampering with physical evidence and drug-related crimes. Following arraignment, the pair was released as the charges do not qualify for bail under New York State law.

An Avon man is facing drunken driving charges after a crash with a utility task vehicle. According to the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office, 72yo Clifford Greer was found to be under the influence of alcohol after the incident in the Town of Avon. A blood test was said to have shown a BAC of .18%. Authorities also determined Greer was driving with a revoked New York State driver’s license due to a prior DWI offense. He was arrested and charged with felony aggravated unlicensed operation, aggravated DWI, and related traffic violations. Following arraignment, Greer was remanded to jail without the possibility of bail due to prior felony convictions.

A York resident was arrested following allegations that he violated a court order of protection. The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office says 50yo Brian Jarvis intentionally violated a complete stay-away order by entering property occupied by the protected individual in the Town of York. A records check shows Jarvis previously was convicted of Criminal Contempt in the First Degree. He was charged again with the same. Jarvis was arraigned in Livingston County CAP Court and was remanded to jail due to having multiple prior felony convictions.

A Batavia man was arrested following allegations stemming from a physical altercation. According to Batavia Police, 22yo Ryan Maxwell also damaged property during the incident. He was charged with Criminal Mischief and Harassment. Maxwell was arraigned in Batavia City Court and was released with a scheduled court appearance.

Jury selection for the federal death penalty trial of Peyton Gendron is set to begin Monday, June 15th. It was during a court proceeding last month when US District Judge Lawrence Vilardo determined that enough qualified prospective jurors had been identified and moved forward to the next phase of jury selection. Beginning this month, members of the jury pool will report to court to complete additional questionnaires. Prospective jurors who advance beyond that stage would be questioned by attorneys starting in late August. Peyton Gendron is currently serving life without parole after pleading guilty to state murder and weapons charges in the racially motivated mass shooting at the Tops supermarket on Buffalo's East Side May 14th 2022, that killed 10 people. He is scheduled to stand trial in federal court in October.

A countywide mailer campaign is being used to promote the projected economic benefits of the proposed STREAM U.S. Data Centers project in Genesee County. GCEDC President Mark Masse says the postcards were sent to nearly 25,000 households to provide residents with information from the project's economic impact report and address what he calls misinformation about the development. The mailer states that the proposed $19.46 billion data center in the Town of Alabama would generate more than $7 million annually for local services and education, over $9 million in local sales tax revenue, 125 permanent jobs, and 6,000 construction-related jobs. The mailing cost approximately $16,700, which Masse says will be reimbursed by STREAM U.S. Data Centers. Feedback from residents has included both support and opposition to the project.

Governor Hochul is urging New Yorkers to prepare for several days of dangerous heat expected to affect much of the state. Feels-like temperatures are forecast to reach the high 90s to low 100s across regions including the Finger Lakes and the Southern Tier on Thursday and Friday. Scattered thunderstorms are also possible statewide on today and Thursday, with a risk of severe weather in some areas. While heat advisories have not yet been issued, officials say they may be announced later in the week if conditions worsen. State officials are encouraging residents to stay hydrated, plan ahead for outdoor activities, use cooling centers if needed, and check on vulnerable neighbors.

The much anticipated, Union Pacific's Big Boy No. 4014 has made its way into Western New York. The historic train made its presence felt in Chautauqua County with a whistle-stop Tuesday afternoon as part of its historic "America 250" trip. Today, the locomotive is making an appearance in Buffalo. Tomorrow the Big Boy will be passing through the CJ Country area with a 15 minute whistle-stop in Silver Springs, From 11:45 am til noon, then cross the Letchworth State Park Genesee River Arch Bridge at around 12:20 pm, before moving on to the Hornell Erie Depot Museum with a stop from 2-2:30 pm. The full schedule for the Big Boy No. 4014 can be found at https://www.up.com.

The Village of Silver Springs will be one of the stops on Union Pacific’s historic coast-to-coast tour featuring Big Boy No. 4014. The world’s largest operating steam locomotive, part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration, is scheduled to arrive at the North Main Street crossing in Silver Springs at 11:45 Thursday morning and depart at noon. To accommodate the large crowds expected for the event, officials with the Silver Springs Village DPW say several streets near the railroad tracks, including portions of Railroad Avenue, North Main Street, and Cottage Street, will be closed beginning after 7 am Thursday. The municipal parking lot across from the fire department will also be closed, while roads leading into and out of the village will remain open. Visitors are expected to park along village streets where possible, though parking is not permitted on Morton Salt property, and residents may choose whether to allow parking on their private property. Silver Springs village officials, the Sheriff’s Department, and local public works staff will be on hand to manage traffic and safety until the train departs and crowds disperse.

New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s Office of Unclaimed Funds continues returning over $2 million in lost money to residents every day. These unclaimed funds come from sources like old bank accounts, uncashed checks, and unused gift cards. A state law championed by DiNapoli allows checks of $250 or less to be mailed directly to eligible individuals, speeding up the return process. To check for and to claim lost money, use the online claiming system at osc.ny.gov/unclaimed-funds or call 1-800-221-9311 for assistance.

Wyoming County is looking for this year’s 2026 Fair Queen. If you are, or know a young lady who is currently in her junior year of high school and will be entering into her senior year in September, then now is the time to get your applications in. Go to wyomingcountyfair.org and click on ‘fair queen’ for more information and an application, or call Melissa at (716) 353-0140.

06/09/2026

CJ Country Local News for Tues, June 9

A construction accident at Attica Middle/High School left a contractor with serious injuries. School officials say the incident happened late Monday morning at the site of a new maintenance building when pre-fabricated rafter sections tipped over and fell onto a worker below. Construction crews immediately called 911, and first responders treated the injured contractor before he was airlifted to Strong Memorial Hospital. No students or staff were near the construction site, though the middle and high school were briefly placed in a hold-in-place as a precaution while emergency personnel were working. School officials later lifted all restrictions and resumed normal operations. They gave thanks to first responders while declining further comment out of respect for the injured contractor and his family.

A Corning man was arrested after State Police investigated a reported menacing incident in the town of Lindley. Troopers responded after receiving a report of a dispute involving a weapon. Investigators determined that a verbal altercation between family members escalated when the suspect was said to have displayed a hammer and threatened the victim, causing fear of physical injury. Police recovered a metal hammer from the property and secured it as evidence. 28yo Calyx Estep was charged with menacing and criminal possession of a weapon. Estep was transported to the Steuben County Jail following processing and arraignment procedures.

An arrest was made following an investigation into a domestic dispute involving allegations of assault, threats, and property damage at a Bath residence. State Police say 21yo Brendan Miller of Naples physically assaulted and threatened a female victim during the incident, while also damaging property inside and outside the residence, including a pickup truck. Police say Miller unlawfully entered an occupied dwelling while armed with a shovel before being located a short time later and taken into custody without incident. He was charged with burglary, criminal mischief, menacing, criminal possession of a weapon, endangering the welfare of a child, and harassment before being transported to the Steuben County Jail for centralized arraignment.

A Batavia woman faces charges following an alleged incident at a Batavia residence. According to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, an investigation found that 21yo Abigail Barclay struck another person in the face, causing physical injury. Authorities say it happened in the presence of a child. Barclay was charged with assault and endangering the welfare of a child. She was scheduled for arraignment in Genesee County CAP Court.

A Bergen woman is charged with illegally entering a home. According to Batavia Police, 36yo Amanda Leach went into the residence in violation of an order of protection. She was arrested for Burglary and Criminal Contempt. Leach was taken to the Genesee County Jail to await arraignment.

A new bill introduced by Congressman Nick Langworthy aims to increase transparency and accountability in health care costs. The CHECK Act would require healthcare middlemen and service providers to disclose detailed pricing, reimbursement, and payment information to health plans while banning contractual restrictions that limit access to spending data. The legislation would also require insurers to provide patients with clear explanations of benefits and healthcare providers to issue itemized bills before seeking payment. Langworthy says the measure would help patients make informed decisions, reduce surprise charges, and improve transparency across the healthcare system.

New York lawmakers have approved a bill that seeks to reduce food waste by creating a standardized system for food date labeling. The Food Date Labeling Act would allow only two phrases on food packaging: “Best if Used By” and “Use By.” Supporters say the change will help consumers better understand food freshness and safety, reducing confusion that often leads to edible food being thrown away. Advocates also argue the measure could save families money and reduce environmental impacts associated with food waste. The legislation now heads to Governor Hochul for consideration and would apply only to businesses that choose to include date labels on their products.

Gas prices continued to fall this week. AAA reports that the national average dropped nearly 16 cents to $4.16 per gallon, while New York's average fell just over eight cents to $4.45. The regional average for a gallon of gas fell seven cents over the past week to $4.41 per gallon. AAA says fuel prices are easing as crude oil remains below $100 per barrel, with the lowest gas prices found in the Midwest and South.

A study finds staying physically active can help lower your risk of heart damage. This research comes from Johns Hopkins. They found people who were sedentary were 39% more likely to show evidence of heart damage than those who exercised regularly. Researchers also found exercise seemed to reduce heart damage in people who were obese and at risk for heart failure.

The Big Boy is coming this week. One popular location for seeing the historic locomotive will be at Letchworth State Park. Park officials say it can be a memorable experience with a little planning. Arrive early, check the official tour schedule, and choose a safe viewing area near the Portage Bridge, while bringing binoculars and preparing for crowds, traffic, and changing weather conditions. For the Big Boy schedule, visit https://www.up.com/about-us/history/steam/schedule.

Livingston County Veteran Services is partnering with Honor Flight Rochester to launch a bus option for veterans traveling to Washington, D.C., as part of Mission 98. The trip, scheduled for October 2nd–4th, will allow veterans who cannot or prefer not to fly to still participate in the Honor Flight experience. Participants will depart from the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport by bus, join other Honor Flight participants in Washington, and return in time for the traditional homecoming ceremony. Livingston County is also sponsoring all guardians for this mission and covering associated costs as part of its support during the America250 celebration. To apply, veterans of all generations must request a seat by June 15th at https://honorflightrochester.org/ and include “M 98 Bus” in the additional health concerns section of the application.

This week is New York State's annual Invasive Species Awareness Week. The New York State Departments of Environmental Conservation and Agriculture & Markets has announced the annual campaign that encourages New Yorkers to help protect the State's lands and waters from the negative impacts of invasive species. Invasive species are plants, animals, insects, and pathogens that are not native to an area and cause harm to the environment, agriculture, the economy, or human health. The State DEC says everyone can make a difference in the fight against invasive species, whether it is through helping to locate and map infestations, using only local firewood, properly cleaning your watercraft before and after boating, cleaning dirt off boots after hiking, or removing invasive species from the yard.

A Notice to residents of the Warsaw Central School District. There will be a Board of Education meeting this evening. The gathering will be held in the Warsaw Elementary Cafeteria beginning at 6:30 pm.

06/08/2026

CJ Country Local News for Mon, June 8

An investigation into a reported property-damage accident in the Town of Darien leads to DWI-related charges for a Lackawanna man. According to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, 22yo Kirby R.T. Heath was stopped on Sumner Road in Darien. Deputies charged him with driving while intoxicated, operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .08% or higher, possessing an open container of alcohol in a vehicle, and leaving the scene of a property-damage accident. Heath was issued Uniform Traffic Tickets and is scheduled to appear in Darien Town Court later this month.

A Manhattan man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he used counterfeit money at a local store. The Genesee County Sheriff's Office says 41yo Joseph Penzella forged (22) $100 bills at a department store in Batavia. Investigators say Penzella and an accomplice who remains at large used the counterfeit currency to buy more than $2,000 worth of merchandise. Penzella was charged with 22 counts of first-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument, conspiracy, and grand larceny. He had previously been arrested on similar charges in Monroe County and was transferred to Genesee County authorities upon his release. Penzella was held for arraignment in Genesee County CAP Court.

A Batavia man faces a felony DWI charge following a property-damage accident in the city. Batavia Police say 45yo Kristian Alexander was arrested and charged with felony driving while intoxicated after police investigated a property-damage accident on Bank Street. Alexander was arraigned in Genesee County CAP Court. He is scheduled to appear in Batavia City Court at a later date.

A Batavia man already incarcerated at the Genesee County Jail faces an additional felony charge on claims of assaulting another inmate. According to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, 45yo Craig Brown was arrested on a charge of assault while confined in a correctional facility. Brown was scheduled for arraignment in Genesee County CAP Court.

Longtime Canisteo firefighter and public servant Don Merring, who dedicated more than six decades to serving his community, has died at age 90. Merring passed away peacefully at his home June 3rd, after a lifetime of public service that included 66 years with the Canisteo Fire Department, where he served as chief, commissioner, and one of New York’s longest-serving volunteer firefighters. He also became Steuben County’s first Director of Emergency Services in 1985 and played a key role in establishing the county’s 911 system. Merring is remembered for his leadership, dedication to emergency services, military service in the U.S. Navy, and lasting impact on the Canisteo and Steuben County communities.

Governor Hochul has appointed a man, whose prison sentence she previously commuted, to help oversee New York’s correctional system. Alexander Dockery, who was granted clemency by Hochul in 2023 after serving about 23 years of a 25-years-to-life sentence for nonviolent burglary and trespassing convictions, was appointed to oversee the New York State Commission of Correction. A law enacted last year expanded the commission from three to five members and requires at least one formerly incarcerated person to serve on the board. Supporters say Dockery’s appointment would bring valuable firsthand experience to prison oversight, particularly following scrutiny of prison conditions after the death of Robert Brooks in 2024. By commuting Dockery’s sentence, rather than pardoning him, Hochul cleared him of any further punishment for the crimes he’d been convicted of, but did not forgive or erase the underlying charges.

New work requirements for New York’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) now require some adults to complete at least 80 hours per month of work or approved activities to maintain benefits. Under rules now in effect across New York State, able-bodied adults without dependents must meet the 80-hour monthly requirement through employment, job training, education, or approved volunteer work to continue receiving benefits beyond a three-month limit over a three-year period. The policy applies generally to individuals ages 18 to 64 who do not live with a child under 14 and are considered able to work. State officials say exemptions may apply for people who are pregnant, disabled, caring for dependents, or participating in qualifying assistance or training programs. Recipients are also required to follow general work rules such as accepting suitable job offers and reporting employment and income information to maintain eligibility.

The City of Batavia is reminding residents and businesses to keep parkways free of signs, merchandise, and other obstructions to improve public safety and accessibility. The city's Department of Public Works points out that clear parkways help maintain visibility for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists at intersections and driveways. Officials say objects placed in parkways can obstruct sidewalks, creating hazards for children, seniors, and people using wheelchairs or mobility aids. Unobstructed parkways also allow emergency responders quick access to curbsides, fire hydrants, and properties when responding to emergencies. Under City of Batavia Municipal Code Section 159-5B, it is illegal to place goods, merchandise, displays, or signs in city parkways, and residents are encouraged to keep such items on private property and out of the public right-of-way.

There are thousands of summer jobs available across New York. The State Department of Labor’s Seasonal Job Bank has posted thousands of summer job opportunities that are available to New Yorkers in a variety of industries around the state, with more to come as the season goes on. There are also guides for young New Yorkers looking for work available online to educate them on what they need before filling out job applications. The guides are broken down by age groups and cover important topics like getting working papers, proper identification, resume preparation, and more. The free Job Bank allows businesses to list their openings and job seekers can browse part-time and seasonal jobs by location, company, and job title. Find more information at https://dol.ny.gov/find-job-0.

A study finds staying physically active can help lower your risk of heart damage. This research comes from Johns Hopkins. They found people who were sedentary were 39% more likely to show evidence of heart damage than those who exercised regularly. Researchers also found exercise seemed to reduce heart damage in people who were obese and at risk for heart failure.

Today marks the start of New York’s 13th annual Invasive Species Awareness Week. From today through June 14th, the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Department of Agriculture & Markets are offering free events, daily webinars, and interactive challenges both in-person and online. The week aims to educate New Yorkers about invasive species—non-native plants, animals, insects, and pathogens that harm the environment, economy, agriculture, or public health. State officials emphasize the importance of these efforts, especially since New York is highly vulnerable due to its international trade and travel activity. More information is available at https://nyis.info/ny-invasive-species-awareness-week.

National Cancer Survivor Day is celebrated every first Sunday in June. Sunday was a reminder for people battling the disease to keep fighting, and for those who have been through it to celebrate their bravery. National Cancer Survivor's Day is also a way for survivors to share their journey and offer hope and inspiration to those who have been newly diagnosed.

06/05/2026

CJ Country Local News for Fri, June 5

A California man has been indicted in connection with a fatal crash that killed a motorcyclist in Genesee County last year. According to the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, 28yo Marquel Kennedy, formerly of Buffalo, was indicted by a Genesee County Grand Jury on charges of second-degree manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, and second-degree aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle. The charges stem from a crash in June of 2025 on Route 63 in the Town of Bethany. Investigators said Kennedy was driving an SUV that passed two tractor-trailers and a farm tractor before colliding head-on with a motorcycle operated by 40yo Ryan Farley of Hemlock, who died at the scene. Kennedy was arraigned in Genesee County Court, ordered held on $10,000 cash bail, is scheduled to return to court on June 17th.

Two Steuben County residents were arrested on drug charges following a traffic stop in the Town of Avon. The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office says an investigation revealed that 61yo Laverne Henry and 52yo Melissa Pitcher, both of Canisteo, were in possession of crack co***ne. Pitcher was charged with riminal possession of a controlled substance and criminally using drug paraphernalia, while Henry was charged with the same, along with traffic violations. Henry was issued an appearance ticket for Avon Town Court. Pitcher was arraigned and released on her own recognizance under New York law.

Two individuals from the eastern part of the state were arrested after an alleged theft incident at BJ's Wholesale Club in Batavia. The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office says 30yo Clifford Gamboa and 30yo Shanita Jackson of Saugerties, NY worked together to take merchandise and pass all points of sale without paying. Gamboa was charged with burglary, grand larceny, and conspiracy because he had previously been trespassed from the store and was not permitted to be there. Jackson was charged with grand larceny and conspiracy for her alleged role in the incident. Both were held at the Genesee County Jail and were scheduled to appear in court.

A Batavia woman has been charged following an investigation into the alleged misuse of public assistance benefits. The Genesee County Sheriff's Office says 54yo Sandra Marsceill used someone else's Department of Social Services benefits. She is charged with first-degree offering a false instrument for filing and criminal use of a benefit card. Marsceill is scheduled to appear in Batavia Town Court later this month.

Two women were arrested after a reported shoplifting incident at a local store. The Genesee County Sheriff’s Office says Diamond Stewart and Christina Trotter were reported to be removing security sensors from merchandise in a dressing room at Dick’s Sporting Goods in Batavia. Authorities say the women were accompanied by two children when deputies made contact with them. Following an investigation, they were charged with grand larceny, conspiracy, endangering the welfare of a child, tampering with physical evidence, and possession of burglar tools. Stewart and Trotter are both scheduled to be arraigned in Batavia Town Court.

A Batavia woman is accused of burglary. According to Batavia Police, 39yo Jeanna Hattaway entered the Dollar General store in Batavia, where she had previously been trespassed, and stole merchandise. She was arrested for Burglary and Petit Larceny. Hattaway was taken to the Genesee County Jail to await arraignment.

New York Democrats have introduced a constitutional amendment that would allow mid-decade redistricting of congressional districts ahead of the 2028 elections. The proposal would let the Independent Redistricting Commission draw new maps by January 15th, 2027, but allow the legislature to take over and pass maps by a simple majority if the commission deadlocks. It also would permanently loosen redistricting rules by removing requirements related to compactness, preserving county and town lines, and prohibiting partisan or incumbent favoritism. Supporters argue it protects minority voting rights and responds to other states’ partisan map-drawing, while critics call it a power grab that could increase gerrymandering.

State Senator George Borrello is criticizing a proposed redistricting constitutional amendment, calling it a partisan power grab by Albany Democrats. He says the measure would remove the state’s constitutional ban on partisan gerrymandering, make it easier to approve new congressional maps, and allow districts to be redrawn when politically advantageous. Borrello also objects to separate legislation that would transfer responsibility for drafting ballot language from the bipartisan Board of Elections to the Democrat-controlled Legislature. He argues the proposal undermines voter-approved reforms that created an independent, bipartisan redistricting process and accuses Democrats of seeking greater control over elections. Borrello is urging New Yorkers to reject the amendment, saying it is intended to protect political power rather than strengthen democracy.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a $1.6 billion assistance program for specialty crop farmers affected by rising input costs and market disruptions. Eligible producers can now apply online through a Login.gov account, while in-person enrollment through local Farm Service Agency offices begins June 8th. The enrollment period for the Assistance for Specialty Crops Farmers (ASCF) program runs through August 7th, and payments may begin as early as the first week of signup. Payment rates range from $25 to $650 per acre depending on the crop category and average annual revenue, with a payment limit of $250,000 per producer. The USDA says the program is designed to provide financial support to specialty crop growers during ongoing market challenges tied to unfair foreign trade practices.

Wyoming County will celebrate the official launch of its new community-owned internet service. The celebration of Speedy C.O.W. will take place June 24th from 2 to 6 pm at the Warsaw Village Park on Liberty Street and is open to all Wyoming County residents. The event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony with local officials and project partners, along with food trucks, giveaways, raffles, games, and family activities. Entertainment will include live music by local American Idol talent Savannah Swatland and her band, as well as photo opportunities with the Speedy Cow mascot. Attendees will also be able to learn about the new broadband service and take advantage of early sign-up specials for internet access.

Assemblymen Steve Hawley and David DiPietro are offering an upcoming electronics recycling event. It provides an opportunity for families, businesses, and residents to properly dispose of their electronics. Items accepted include: Cell Phones, Computers, Monitors, Printers, Audio/Video, Small Devices, Other Equipment, Televisions (with a limit of 4 televisions or monitors per car). This Electronics Recycling Event is free. It is scheduled for Saturday, June 20th from 8:30 am to noon in the parking lot of 5130 East Main Street Road in Batavia. To register, contact Assembylman Hawley or DiPietro’s offices, or click on the link https://www.eventbrite.com/e/assemblymember-hawley-batavia-event-tickets-1983274581662.

Saturday marks the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Invasion. It was on June 6th, 1944 that the largest seaborne invasion in history took place - Operation Overlord, more widely known as D-Day. The operation was led by General Dwight D. Eisenhower. While, more than 9,000 Allied soldiers were killed or wounded, the operation began the liberation of German-occupied northwestern Europe from N**i control, and contributed to the Allied victory on the Western Front. Eisenhower went on to become the nation's 34th president.

It’s a summertime favorite – a bowl of strawberry shortcake. And you can get it soon as the strawberry season is getting underway in WNY. Many of the local farms and berry patches are opening or will soon open up. It's a short but sweet season, so get out there while you can. Strawberries can be used in many recipes, including desserts such as shortcake, pies, cheesecakes, and ice cream, as well as breakfast foods like pancakes, waffles, and smoothies. They can also be made into jams and syrups, added to drinks and salads, or simply enjoyed fresh on their own.

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