Local News

Most schools are closed all day Thursday due to the snow. Here is a list of the ones closed:  Alexander central Schools, Attica Central School, Batavia City Schools closed with no remote instruction, Byron Bergen Central Schools, Elba Central Schools, GCC is remote only, Genesee Valley BOCES Batavia Campus, Leroy Central Schools, Notre Dame High, Oakfield Alabama Central Schools, Pembroke Central Schools, St Josephs School, St Paul Lutheran School was already off for the week.  Also St James Thrift Shop is closed and so is the Richmond Memorial Library.

3000 dollars.  That’s how much Governor Hochul says she is offering every healthcare worker in New York if they will remain in their positions for one year.  She announced that there is 10 billion dollars set aside, 2 Billion for supporting healthcare wages, 2 billion for retention bonuses, 500 million for Cost of Living Adjustments, and 2 Billion healthcare capital infrastructure and lab improvements.  The rest is investments in workforce and healthcare access.  The money for staying at the job for a year will be prorated for workers who work less hours.

Orleans County is distributing free at home COVID 19 testing kits to residents.  Each county office building and Town hall will have a limited supply to give out starting today during normal business hours.  A maximum of 2 kits will be given per family till supplies run out.  

Governor Hochul proposed that Alcohol to Go where restaurants and bars are able to sell alcoholic beverages in to go containers should become permanent in the State of the State address she gave Wednesday.  The program ended in July of 2020 and both patrons and owners asked for it to be reinstated.  Hochul said that “To-go drinks were a critical revenue stream for New York’s bars and restaurants during the pandemic, helping many small businesses across the state pay their rents or mortgages.”

It has long been a joke that the Buffalo Bills are the only New York football team since the Jets and Giants home field in New Jersey.  But now there is a class action lawsuit against both teams in the Southern District Court of New York alleging that calling the teams “New York” teams while they play at Metlife Stadium harms New Yorkers by “siphoning off billions of dollars in interstate commerce that should rightfully be spent in New York State.”  The lawsuit demands that the teams either change their names to reflect their East Rutherford play location or move to New York State by 2025.  It also seeks monetary damages of 2 to 6 billion dollars.

A judge in Buffalo has lifted the stay on demolition of the Great Northern Grain elevator on the Buffalo waterfront.  Allowing demolition to begin.  The grain elevator was damaged during the wind storm on December 11th and Arthur Daniel Midland, which owns the elevator, asked for permission to demolish the 120 year old structure.  Preservation groups sued to halt the demolition.

The National Weather Service has upgraded its weather alert for tonight.
There is now a Lake Effect Snow Warning posted for Genesee and Erie Counties at 7 o’clock tonight that remains in effect until 1am Friday.
Heavy Lake Effect snow is forecast to accumulate 8 to 15 inches in the most persistent lake snows. Winds gusting as high as 40 to 45 miles per hour.
Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.
Heavy snow will fall in relatively narrow bands. If traveling, be
prepared for rapidly changing road conditions and visibilities.

The forecast of Lake Effect snow has prompted some cancellations:
The Office for Aging has cancelled Meals on Wheels and lunchtime meal sites for tomorrow, Thursday. Clients should use emergency meals.
Genesee Community College has announced remote operations only for all locations tomorrow.
The Rotary Club Girls Basketball Tournament final two games at GCC will be played tonight starting at 6pm.

Due to the surge in COVID-19 infections rates the Western New York V-A system has issued new visitation requirements for both the Buffalo and Batavia campuses.
In Batavia, visitation in the Community Living Center will be limited through glass partitions.
All visitors will be screened.
Some exceptions may be allowed on a case-by-case basis.
The new policy remains in effect until further notice.

Makeem Ithna-Asheri

A Batavia man has been charged with manslaughter after he and his wife overdosed on drugs in their Northside Meadows apartment.
Police responded on Thursday night, Dec 30th, and found Anda Ithna-Asheri dead and her husband, Makeen, unresponsive,
Their two children were home at the time but unharmed.
Makeen was revived with several does of Narcan. He was then charged with providing the drugs that killed his wife.
Makeen was on lifetime parole for murder in an unrelated case.
He’s locked up in the county jail.

Genesee County is holding a COVID-19 rapid testing kit distribution this Saturday, January 8th at the Genesee County Fire Training Center, on State Street Rd. The distribution will take place between Noon and 2.
There are 2,580 available test kits, with two tests per kit.
Those attending may take up to two kits per household, while the supplies last.
You will have to show proof of residence in Genesee County.

A Batavia man who previously served time in prison for a downstate murder was arrested yesterday for the overdose of a woman in his apartment. 61-year-old Makeen Ithna-Asheri is charged with manslaughter, criminal possession of a controlled substance and, because the overdose was witnessed by two children, endangering the welfare of a child. He was also charged with violating parole. The manslaughter charge is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

Thousands of prison inmates were wrongfully punished after false positives resulted from prison drug tests. As a result, the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision could face legal action or penalties. The department has since stopped imposing penalties based solely on positive Microgenics drug test results when confirmation from an outside laboratory was unavailable. They have subsequently agreed to reverse and expunge all related disciplinary actions based on faulty results.

Governor Hochul will be laying out her vision for the year ahead during her first State of the State address today. The governor is going to give her speech at one p-m in the Assembly Chamber at the State Capitol. Among the items she’s expected to discuss are the state’s ongoing response to the COVID-19 crisis and putting term limits in place for statewide elected officials. Anyone who wants to watch the Hochul’s speech this afternoon can do so at governor.ny.gov.

Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz says all sides involved in negotiating a new stadium lease for the Buffalo Bills are getting closer to striking a deal. But, Poloncarz said yesterday that while talks are ongoing, a final agreement isn’t imminent. The owners of the Bills want to build an over one-billion-dollar facility across from Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park which is where the team plays its home games. The Bills’ lease is scheduled to expire in 2023.

The Monroe County Department of Public Health says nearly two-thousand more residents have tested positive for COVID-19. There were 19-hundred 95 new cases reported yesterday which brings the overall total since the pandemic started to 122-thousand 270. The county is averaging 16-hundred 99 cases per day over the past week. The rolling seven-day rolling average positivity rate is also on the rise and now sits at 18-point-five percent. // New data from the Erie County Department of Health shows the spread of COVID-19 is continuing to worsen. Yesterday, the agency said that over 15-thousand residents have tested positive for the virus in the past week, bringing the overall total since the pandemic started to 160-thousand and 40. It’s important to note that data doesn’t include the results of at-home COVID-19 tests. The death toll due to the virus has also increased over the last seven days and now sits at 23-hundred and 19.

A Middleport man could be spending up to the next seven years behind bars after pleading guilty in connection with a knife attack. Prosecutors say 59-year-old Scott Whittaker admitted to assaulting Jason Tschetter on Freeman Road in Royalton this past August. The victim was treated for an injury to his face. Whittaker is being held in jail on five-thousand-dollars bail and will be sentenced in March.

The Rotary Girl’s Basketball Tournament – initially scheduled for tomorrow night – has been moved to tonight, due to the threat of bad weather tomorrow. The consolation and championship games will be played at GCC tonight, beginning at 6pm. Hear live coverage on WBTA with Paul Spiotta.

The Genesee County Office for Aging is cancelling home delivered meals and lunch-time meal sites for Thursday. Clients should use emergency meals.

An inmate at the Monroe County Jail is facing charges after attacking a female deputy at the facility. Officials say the deputy was serving 23-year-old Dawntaya Harris dinner on Sunday when she pushed her cell door open and knocked the deputy to the ground before putting her in a chokehold. The deputy was taken to the hospital for treatment but later released. Harris was arraigned yesterday on two felony charges.

In just a few hours, one of the largest prizes in lottery history is going to be up for grabs. Tonight’s Powerball jackpot has grown to at least 610-million-dollars, which is the seventh-highest in the history of the game. No one has won the top Powerball prize since October. Tickets to play are just two dollars apiece. Tonight’s drawing will be streamed live online at Powerball.com.

Albany County District Attorney David Soares is explaining his decision to no longer prosecute groping allegations made against former Governor Andrew Cuomo. Cuomo is accused of inappropriately touching a female aide at the Executive Mansion in Albany back in December 2020, a claim that he’s denied. Soares says while his office found the woman to be both cooperative and credible, there isn’t enough evidence to prove a case beyond a reasonable doubt. Two other district attorneys in New York have also declined to prosecute Cuomo for alleged inappropriate conduct with women.

The Manhattan District Attorney has announced that they will not bring any charges against former Governor Andrew Cuomo in relation to the handling of nursing homes during the early stages of the COVID pandemic and subsequent coverup of the numbers of dead.  A lawyer for Cuomo says they have been informed that “after a thorough investigation there was no evidence to suggest any laws were broken.”  Cuomo administration officials admitted to underreporting the number of people who died in nursing homes from COVID by as much as 50 percent in February of 2021.  The estimate is now that over 15,000 elderly people died.  Cuomo was also under fire for a policy that sent COVID positive patients to nursing homes to free up hospital space which many allege caused a large portion of the deaths.

The Better Business Bureau issued a warning Tuesday about fake COVID tests, vaccines and treatments going out into the market.  According to the FDA, scammers are selling fraudulent test kits online and are taking advantage of shortages in stores to dupe desperate people.  There are also fake vaccines being sold.  The BBB reminds us that the vaccines are free and should only be given at authorized sites by authorized workers.  Vaccines are not available for home administration.  Tests can be covered by insurance and you should go through your doctor to determine where to get tests.  Never share your personal information, medical or financial, with a stranger.

The Batavia VA Medical Center has suspended all physical visitation. Visitors to the Community Living Center will only be allowed to visit with a glass partition between them and the resident.  Screening, including a temperature check, and wearing of a VA provided face mask will still be practiced for all visitors.  

The Justice Department has awarded several grants to Western New York organizations to assist in fighting Human trafficking.  Over 2 million dollars was awarded to the International Institute of Buffalo for housing assistance and youth services to victims of human trafficking, 800,000 dollars has been given to the Erie County Bar Association Volunteer Lawyer Project for legal services for victims of human trafficking, and Erie county has been awarded 750,000 dollars for their efforts.  This is part of over 10 million given to groups and organizations across western ny and the finger lake region.  

A larger winter storm has definitely been overdue for us, and it now seems likely. A winter storm watch is issued for Genesee, Wyoming and Erie counties, in effect from 7pm Wednesday to 7pm Thursday. Heavy lake effect snow is possible, according to 13 WHAM forecasters. Total accumulations of 9 inches or more are possible in the more persistent lake snows. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph resulting in considerable blowing and drifting snow. Travel could be very difficult to impossible as areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.

Starting today, Governor Hochul is asking hospitals statewide to change the way they report COVID-19 cases. The governor wants hospitals to clearly identify which patients are being treated for the illness and patients who later tested positive for COVID-19 after going to the hospital for another reason. The governor says she wants this data in order to show New Yorkers how bad the health crisis is. Hochul says hospital capacity has improved a bit in recent weeks and fewer facilities are having to limit elective surgeries. // As part of her State of the State address tomorrow, Governor Hochul will propose term limits and a ban on outside income for elected officials, with an exception for academic positions. Rochester police have released the name of their city’s first homicide victim of 2022. They say 14-year-old Julius Greer Junior was walking to get food on Sunday night when he was shot on North Street. Greer was a ninth-grader in the Rochester City School District and attended the Leadership Academy for Young Men. Police are trying to determine a motive for the shooting and figure out if Greer was the intended target of the gunfire.

A new report says Albany County District Attorney David Soares is expected to drop the groping complaint against ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo. Cuomo is accused of inappropriately touching a female aide at the Executive Mansion in Albany back in December 2020, a claim that he has denied. The Times Union reported this new development and says Cuomo is scheduled to be in Albany City Court on Friday to face a misdemeanor charge, but there’s no word if that appearance will still happen or if the investigation into the groping allegation is going to continue. The Albany County DA’s office hasn’t commented on this report.

A judge is planning to issue a decision soon that will determine the fate of the Great Northern grain elevator in Buffalo. The company that owns the building wants to tear it down after it suffered damage during a severe windstorm last month. But local preservation groups have fought to spare the building from demolition. A judge heard from both sides yesterday but there’s no word on when a ruling will be handed down. The grain elevator was built in 1897 and is the last of its kind in North America.

The Buffalo Bills will be finishing up their regular season at home this weekend, but kickoff for their final game has been pushed back. The Bills were supposed to host the New York Jets at one p-m Sunday, but the contest is now set to start at 4:25pm. If the Bills come out on top, they’ll win the AFC East for the second straight year. But if they lose and the New England Patriots win, New England will finish in first place. The Patriots are taking on the Miami Dolphins Sunday, also at 4:25pm.

The City of Batavia will be picking up Christmas trees throughout the month of January, weather and operations permitting. They will only pick up real trees. Residents are asked to place trees in the parkway near the curb, keeping them clear of the roadway and sidewalks. All decorations, lights, stands and bags should be cleared of the trees. Also, when high winds are forecast, residents are asked to delay putting their trees out until winds subside.

Batavia City Schools now have COVID at-home Rapid-Antigen Test kits available to parents. The district was provided with over 2000 kits yesterday, one for each student, according to Superintendent Jason Smith. It is the parents’ choice whether to take advantage of test kit distribution. However, Mr. Smith noted that a child should be tested if they are exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, or is out sick with any of the related symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, body ache, loss of taste and/or smell, sore throat, congestion, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea). Parents who would like to pick up a kit or have questions should phone the Batavia City Schools district office: 585-343-2480 (extension 1004).

The State of the State address from Governor Hochul is set to be given Wednesday and we already have one announcement that will be given.  Hochul will propose term limits and a ban on outside income for elected officials as part of her speech.  A release from the governor’s office says Hochul will introduce a constitutional amendment to set limits of two consecutive terms for statewide elected officials. The governor will also propose legislation to ban earned outside income for statewide elected officials, with an exception for academic positions that must receive ethics board approval.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch from this Wednesday Evening through Thursday evening.  The watch area includes all of Genesee and Wyoming Counties and most of Erie County.  Heavy lake effect snow is possible with accumulations of nine inches or more in the most persistent snows. Winds could gust as high as 40 miles per hour resulting in considerable blowing and drifting snow.  The weather service says travel could be very difficult to impossible.  These conditions could impact the Thursday morning or evening commute.

Monday was new Batavia city schools Superintendent Jason Smith’s first day on the job.  He isn’t a stranger though as he graduated from Batavia high before teaching in Albion and being the principal of Elba Middle and High school and being the superintendent for Lyndonville Central School District.  He lives in Batavia and says that his commute has gone from 40 minutes to 4.  Smith started that day at Batavia high by using the announcements time to tell the kids that he likes Bruce Springsteen, The Buffalo Bills, and is finishing up the 4th Season of Cobra Kai.  

The Bills game against the Jets coming up on Sunday has been rescheduled from 1pm to 4:25pm.  The Bills clinched a playoff spot for the  fourth time in five seasons with their win over the Atlanta Falcons Sunday combined with the loss by the Baltimore Ravens.  With a win over the Jets in Week 18 the Bills would secure the top spot in the AFC East.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch from this Wednesday Evening through Thursday evening.
The watch area includes all of Genesee and Wyoming Counties and most of Erie County.,
Heavy lake effect snow is possible with accumulations of nine inches or more in the most persistent snows. Winds could gust as high as 40 miles per hour resulting in considerable blowing and drifting snow.
The weather service says travel could be very difficult to impossible.
These conditions could impact the Thursday morning or evening commute.

Gasoline prices in Batavia have dropped an average of two cents over the past week. The Triple A now puts the price of a gallon of regular locally at $3.43 a gallon. One year ago this week, gas was selling for $2.26.

An 18-year-old woman who was hit by a pick-up truck, while walking with her 13-year-old sister, in the Orleans County Town of Gains has now been identified.
Deputies say Theresa Karlak was struck and killed on Saturday night along Eagle Harbor Road. The younger girl was injured but will recover.
Authorities believe darkness and poor weather conditions likely combined to cause the accident.

A rechargeable battery exploded in a Perry apartment over the weekend, which then ignited nearby flammable materials. The fire was contained to one room, which sustained smoke and water damage. One tenant was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.

The City of Batavia has started to pick-up real Christmas Trees that are getting past their prime.
The city will dispose of Christmas Trees through the end of the month as weather and operations permit.
The city will only pick-up artificial trees placed on the parkway near the curb. Be sure you remove all ornaments and lights.

Orleans County deputies have released the name of the woman died at the scene after being hit by a vehicle. Police say 18-year-old Theresa Karlak was walking with her 13-year-old sister on Eagle Harbor Road in Gaines Saturday night when they were struck by a pickup truck. The youngest victim was injured but will be OK. Deputies said their investigation indicates that a second vehicle had pulled over on the west shoulder. Officials believe darkness and weather conditions, including heavy rain and ice, played a role in the tragedy.

Officials with the Rochester City School District say the death of a student has been connected to COVID-19. The student has been identified as Derrick Watson, who attended Rochester’s Leadership Academy for Young Men. No other information has been released. Counselors are going to be available to students and staff who need help coping with Watson’s death. A GoFundMe has already been set up to help his family with funeral expenses. // An ongoing surge in the number of coronavirus cases has led to the Erie County Department of Health changing its contact tracing policy. They say because there are so many infections, they can’t reach out to every resident who tests positive for COVID-19 to conduct contact tracing. Instead, anyone who is infected should self-quarantine and notify family and friends who they’ve recently been around. People who test at Health Department sites will be notified of their results.

A rechargeable battery exploded in a Perry apartment over the weekend, which then ignited nearby flammable materials. The fire was contained to one room, which sustained smoke and water damage. One tenant was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.

The price at the pump is still holding steady at gas stations across Western New York. According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas is $3.50. That’s the same as it was last week and is two cents less than this time one month ago. The state average is currently $3.49 a gallon while nationally is $3.28.

The Buffalo Bills have extended their winning streak to three games and clinched a playoff spot in the process. Quarterback Josh Allen ran for two touchdowns while running back Devin Singletary added two more as the Bills beat the Atlanta Falcons 29 to 15 at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park yesterday. With the win, the Bills improve their record to ten and six this season and remain in first place in the AFC East. They’ll finish up their regular season Sunday when they host the New York Jets.

No injuries have been reported after a fire quickly spread through a home in Rochester, causing serious damage. Crews were called to battle the flames at a residence on Webster Avenue. No one was at the house when the fire began, and firefighters were able to get things under control in about 20 minutes. There’s no word yet what caused the fire.

Buffalo police are continuing to investigate a weekend shooting that left two men dead. Officers were called to the scene on Elmer Avenue Saturday morning and found the victims. The names of the men haven’t been released but police do believe this was a targeted shooting and that there’s no threat to the public.

A judge is scheduled to hold another hearing today that could decide the fate of the Great Northern grain elevator in Buffalo. The building was damaged during a severe windstorm last month and the owner of the property wants to tear it down. But local historical preservation groups believe the structural integrity of the elevator is intact and can be saved. Last week a judge ordered both parties to reach a solution but neither side was willing to compromise.

Some lucky person could be just a few hours away from winning over a half-billion dollars. The Powerball jackpot continues to grow and will be at least 522-million bucks tonight. No one has won has the top Powerball prize since October which is a span of over 30 drawings. The cost of a ticket is two-dollars and the drawing will be streamed live online at powerball.com. Please play responsibly.

A Roswell Park study published last week shows that adult smokers with no plans to quit are more likely to give up the habit if they switch to daily vaping. The focus of the study shows daily vaping dramatically increases the quit rate among a group of the most highly addicted smokers. They are not studied often and are typically at the highest risk of health problems due to smoking. While this study is not intended to offer a green light to vaping, since there are still many unknowns regarding long-term effects of vaping. If you or someone you know is looking to quit, you’re encouraged to check out:  https//nysmokefree.com/quittingsmoking/howtoquit?

Governor Hochul announced a few things before the beginning of the New Year.  First, that all CUNY and SUNY Schools will require COVID vaccines and boosters and mandatory pre-testing for all students planning on campus attendance for the spring semester, and ongoing testing plans on all campuses.  Hochul also announced a 5 point plan to combat COVID during the winter surge called winter plan 2.0.  The 5 points are keep schools open, keep masking and testing, prevent severe illness and death, expand access to vaccines and boosters and work with local partners.  Hochul also announced extending the State Wide Mask mandate till February 1st.

A home on West Main Street may have been caused by a furnace explosion.  At around 5pm Batavia Fire received a report of a structure fire at 367 West Main Street.  The fire appears to have started on the second floor.  The furnace is located in the attic.  When firefighters arrived they found heavy smoke and no visible flames.  Son after flames began to come out of the rear of the structure.  No one was in the building.  Firefighters were able to get the blaze extinguished.  The building suffered severe smoke and fire damage and is now uninhabitable.  The cause of the fire is under investigation.

ECMC in Buffalo has announced that it is prohibiting inpatient visitation because of too many Omicron cases in the hospital.  The only cases where visitation is allowed is when it is medically necessary and during end of life circumstances.   The change in patient visitation guidelines began December 31 and ECMC says it is an effort to protect the medical center’s vulnerable patients and caregivers from avoidable exposure to infection.  All those meeting the exceptions will be required to undergo screening and wear masks.  Patients families and loved ones are urged to keep connected electronically

The Red Cross is asking western New Yorkers to step up and donate as levels of donated blood are at the lowest they’ve been in over a decade.  The lack of blood has lead to slower treatment times for people who need transfusions.  Anyone who has had an exposure to COVID-19, has symptoms, or a confirmed positive test should wait to donate.

Today was the deadline and now that all municipalities have weighed in, 15 of 20 in Genesee County have ‘opted out’ of allowing cannabis retail dispensaries and on-site consumption places. Batavia, Darien, Pavilion, Pembroke and Corfu have opted-in. The municipalities that opted out now will be able to opt back in at a later date and there will also be options for public referendums to put the questions up for community vote.

The ban on single-use Styrofoam food and drink containers, as well as packing peanuts begins tomorrow. Expanded polystyrene foam, usually referred to as Styrofoam, has long been regarded to be a major contributor to pollution. A similarly environmentally focused ban on plastic bags went into effect last March.

Genesee County dispatchers were called last night around 8pm, to respond to a mobile home fire at Hidden Valley Estates in Bergen. A neighbor had kicked in the front door to help get the sole occupant, an older woman, out of the residence. The neighbor had thought the occupant was on the other side of the door; however, he could not get her out. The resident was ultimately rescued and not breathing; first-aid techniques were required to get her breathing again. She was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital but may be transported to Syracuse for the necessary treatment for smoke inhalation.

The number of new Covid cases in both Erie and Monroe Counties has hit another record high. Of the new cases, 142 from Monroe came from at-home tests. And in Erie County, due to the rise in number of cases, nearly all patient visitation is being suspended at Erie County Medical Center. Exceptions include if visits are deemed medically necessary, or if the individual is a family member of the patient’s legal representative. There is no word at this time as to how long this change will remain in place.

The investigation continues into what sparked a fire in Buffalo that caused $3,000,000 in damage. Crews were called to battle the blaze at the Buffalo Grand Hotel on Church Street yesterday after a police officer reported seeing smoke coming from the building. The flames were found in a ballroom and firefighters had to run their hoses through the main lobby to get water on the fire. Dozens of hotel guests were briefly evacuated and no injuries were reported at the scene. There’s no word when the hotel will reopen.

Rochester police are still trying to track down the person responsible for a stabbing that sent a woman to the hospital. They say the 32-year-old victim was found injured yesterday in the area of East Main Street and University Avenue. Officials believe the woman was attacked near the World of Inquiry School. She’s expected to make a full recovery and anyone with information on the case is asked to dial 911.

Starting today, thousands of workers in Upstate New York are going to get paid just a little bit more each hour. That’s because a minimum wage increase will raise their hourly rate from $12.50 an hour to $13.20 an hour. The increase is part of a plan approved in 2016 to phase-in a minimum wage of $15.00 an hour for all workers. That means the labor department has to bump up minimum wage each year until it reaches that benchmark.

It would be a very happy New Year to whoever ends up winning one of the two massive lottery jackpots up for grabs the next two nights. The jackpot for this evening’s Mega Millions drawing is now at $221,000,000 while there’s $500,000,000 bucks up for grabs in tomorrow night’s Powerball drawing, bringing the combined total to 721-million-dollars. The price of a ticket for each game is just $2.00. Both the Mega Millions and Powerball drawings will be streamed live online. Please play responsibly.

The Buffalo Bills are back on top of the AFC East and they’ll be looking to make it three straight wins in front of their home crowd this weekend. The Bills are taking on the Atlanta Falcons at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. Buffalo is coming off of a big victory over the New England Patriots last weekend which put them back in first place. The Bills could clinch a playoff spot depending on the result of their game and other contests around the NFL. Kickoff for Sunday’s contest is scheduled for 1:00.

Happy new year! Stay safe.

Municipalities across the state have until the end of today to opt-out of allowing recreational marijuana to be sold or consumed on-premises in their community. In the GLOW region, over two thirds of communities have decided to opt out of allowing retail sales and on-site consumption. Any municipality opting out now will be able to opt back in at a later date and there will also be options for public referendums to put the questions up for community vote.

Genesee County dispatchers were called last night around 8pm, to respond to a mobile home fire at Hidden Valley Estates in Bergen. A neighbor had kicked in the front door to help get the sole occupant, an older woman, out of the residence. The neighbor had thought the occupant was on the other side of the door; however, he could not get her out. The resident was ultimately rescued and not breathing; first-aid techniques were required to get her breathing again. She was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital but may be transported to Syracuse for the necessary treatment for smoke inhalation.

The number of new Covid cases in both Erie and Monroe Counties has hit another record high. Of the new cases, 142 from Monroe came from at-home tests. And in Erie County, due to the rise in number of cases, nearly all patient visitation is being suspended at Erie County Medical Center. Exceptions include if visits are deemed medically necessary, or if the individual is a family member of the patient’s legal representative. There is no word at this time as to how long this change will remain in place.

The investigation continues into what sparked a fire in Buffalo that caused three-million-dollars in damage. Crews were called to battle the blaze at the Buffalo Grand Hotel on Church Street yesterday after a police officer reported seeing smoke coming from the building. The flames were found in a ballroom and firefighters had to run their hoses through the main lobby to get water on the fire. Dozens of hotel guests were briefly evacuated and no injuries were reported at the scene. There’s no word when the hotel will reopen.

Rochester police are still trying to track down the person responsible for a stabbing that sent a woman to the hospital. They say the 32-year-old victim was found injured yesterday in the area of East Main Street and University Avenue. Officials believe the woman was attacked near the World of Inquiry School. She’s expected to make a full recovery and anyone with information on the case is asked to dial 911.

Starting today, thousands of workers in Upstate New York are going to get paid just a little bit more each hour. That’s because a minimum wage increase will raise their hourly rate from 12-dollars and 50 cents an hour to 13-dollars and 20-cents an hour. The increase is part of a plan approved in 2016 to phase-in a minimum wage of 15-dollars an hour for all workers. That means the labor department has to bump up minimum wage each year until it reaches that benchmark.

It would be a very happy New Year to whoever ends up winning one of the two massive lottery jackpots up for grabs the next two nights. The jackpot for this evening’s Mega Millions drawing is now at 221-million while there’s 500-million bucks up for grabs in tomorrow night’s Powerball drawing, bringing the combined total to 721-million-dollars. The price of a ticket for each game is just two-dollars. Both the Mega Millions and Powerball drawings will be streamed live online.

The Buffalo Bills are back on top of the AFC East and they’ll be looking to make it three straight wins in front of their home crowd this weekend. The Bills are taking on the Atlanta Falcons at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park. Buffalo is coming off of a big victory over the New England Patriots last weekend which put them back in first place. The Bills could clinch a playoff spot depending on the result of their game and other contests around the NFL. Kickoff for Sunday’s contest is scheduled for one p-m.

A good neighbor helped save a woman from a fire in Bergen late Thursday night.  Bergen Fire received a report of a fire at 84 Woodside Lane in the Hidden Valley Meadow Park just before 8pm and arrived to find a working structure fire.  A neighbor said he thought the owner was in the home and had tried to kick the door in unsuccessfully because he believed the woman was laying against the inside of the door.  Bergen Assistant Chief Garrett Dean was able, with the help of the neighbor to push in the door and reach around it to grab the woman and drag her out.  At first, the woman wasn’t breathing, Dean said. With the assistance of the neighbor, he used first-aid techniques to get her breathing again.  The resident, whose name has not been released, was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital but Dean said he’s been informed she may be transferred to Syracuse for a higher level of treatment for her smoke inhalation.  The fire is under investigation.

It may be a long way off but a new regulation will significantly affect the trucking industry in New York.  The Advanced Clean Trucks or ACT regulation requires all trucks over 8500 pounds sold or leased for registration in the Empire state to be zero emissions by 2045.  Starting in 2025 manufacturers will be hit with penalties if they sell non-zero emission trucks in New York but will get incentives if they offer zero emission vehicles.  This complements the rule saying all cars and personal motor vehicles sold in New York must be electric in the next 15 years as the state tries to go green as laid out in the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 85 percent by 2050.  

Are you an aspiring young film maker?  The Tobacco Free Genesee Orleans and Wyoming and Reality Check organizations are inviting anyone ages 13-18 to make a 1 minute film about how the tobacco industry has been manipulating kids into starting smoking through the entertainment industry, specifically movies and tv.  Video submissions are due by February 9th.  One video will be recognized as the state wide winner and 4 will be regional winners.  All participants will get a Reality Check Swag Bag.  Check out www.realitycheckofny.com for full details.

The Sabres fell before the Islanders Thursday night 4 to 1 in their third straight loss.  Sabres goalie Malcolm Subban made 28 saves on 32 shots faced and Kyle Okposo scored the lone goal for the Buffalo team.  Buffalo’s next chance to turn their losing streak around will be against the Boston Bruins in Boston. Puck drop is at 1:00 p.m. on New Year’s Day.

Governor Hochul announced today the success in awarding $900 million in Child Care Stabilization Grants to child care programs statewide. The Office of Children and Family Services awarded funding to nearly 15,000 eligible child care providers from August through November. The funds are intended to help cover costs of personnel, rent or mortgage, utilities, facility maintenance or improvements, mental health supports for children and employees, and more.

WBTA News has learned from our news partner, The Batavian, that a local man, James Simonds has been indicted on counts of burglary and false report; characterized by false reports of fire, explosion, hazardous substance on school grounds, and endangering the welfare of a child. He is accused of entering John F. Kennedy School in Batavia with intent of committing a crime. While there, communicated false or baseless information of dangerous or hazardous substances on school grounds. He is accused of knowingly acting in a manner to be injurious to the physical, mental or moral welfare of a child.

New York State Fair officials have announced a major change to the smoking policy for the 2022 event. For the first time, smoking is only going to be allowed in some outdoor areas. The fair director says there have been complaints about smoking and this decision was made to make the fair as comfortable and family-friendly as possible for everyone. Smoking inside of buildings on fairgrounds property is already banned. The 2022 fair will run from August 24th until Labor Day, which is Monday, September 5th.

The Genesee Community College campus in Albion is hosting a COVID testing center. This announcement comes as the US is hitting its highest amount of people testing positive for COVID since the beginning of the pandemic. The CDC scaled back their estimate from over 80 percent which they said on Tuesday. Experts are saying this is good news since Omicron results in 80 percent fewer hospitalizations than COVID and produces immunity in the same way. Vaccinated people seem to be catching Omicron at the same rate as unvaccinated people but vaccines and boosters appear to lower the severity of the symptoms.

The University of Rochester says all students who are eligible to get a COVID-19 booster shot will need to get one before the start of the Spring semester. Anyone who currently isn’t eligible to get the additional vaccine dose must receive it within 30 days of becoming eligible. Students with a valid medical or religious exemption won’t have to meet the requirement. Information on how students can submit proof of their vaccination status is going to be released in the next few days.

A Stafford man has been charged with multiple felonies in connection with an incident on Saturday that led to Route 5 being closed to traffic in both directions for several hours. Residents who live nearby were evacuated. Christopher Say of Stafford was arraigned in Stafford Town Court and charged with five felonies. Making a terroristic threat, criminal possession of a weapon, criminal mischief in the second degree, attempted arson, and criminal mischief in the 3rd degree. Say was remanded to the Genesee County Jail in lieu of $20,000 cash bail, $40,000 bond and $80,000 partially secured.

The investigation continues into a shooting in Rochester that left a man seriously hurt. Police say the 31-year-old victim was shot once in the upper body on McNaughton Street yesterday. He was driven to a nearby hospital in a private vehicle and is being treated for injuries that aren’t considered to be life-threatening. Police believe the victim may have been targeted and that there’s no ongoing threat to the public. They’re asking anyone with information on the shooting to dial 911.

The Buffalo Sabres played their first game in nearly two weeks last night, but unfortunately they didn’t come away with a win. The Sabres fell to the New Jersey Devils by a final score of four-to-three at KeyBank Center. Buffalo hadn’t taken the ice for a game since December 17th due to the NHL putting the league on pause following several COVID-19 outbreaks. The Sabres will be on the road tonight to battle the New York Islanders.

The man who barricaded himself in his garage and threatened to blow it up if firefighters approached has been charged.  Christopher Say of rt 5 in Stafford has been charged with Making a Terrorist Threat, Criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, Criminal mischief in the 2nd degree, Assault in the second, Attempted Arson in the third, and Criminal mischief in the third.  All Felonies.  Sunday afternoon there was a 911 call saying a garage was on fire.  Authorities found a man saying the garage was wired to blow.  After negotiations stalled, Say allegedly drove a motor vehicle backward through a closed garage door, breaking the garage door and damaging the vehicle. He reportedly continued down the driveway, striking a fence and a marked patrol car.  He was then taken into custody without further incident.  During the incident, Say also allegedly burned another person’s face causing a physical injury.  Say is also accused of possessing a metal knuckle knife.  Investigators claim there was evidence found in the garage to support Say’s claim that the garage was equipped to explode.

Governor Hochul announced Wednesday that the GCC campus in Albion is hosting a COVID testing center.  This announcement comes as the US is hitting it’s highest amount of people testing positive for COVID since the beginning of the pandemic.  Over 277 thousand people are testing positive per day with the CDC estimating Wednesday that over 60 percent of new cases are Omicron.  67 thousand of those people were New Yorkers.  The CDC scaled back their estimate from over 80 percent which they said on Tuesday.  Some experts are saying this is good news since Omicron results in 80 percent fewer hospitalizations than COVID and produces immunity in the same way.  Vaccinated people seem to be catching Omicron at the same rate as unvaccinated people but vaccines and boosters appear to lower the severity of the symptoms.  

The Campaign for Greater Buffalo History Architecture and Culture has released a plan for what it would do if it could buy the Great Northern Grain Elevator on the Buffalo waterfront.  After the windstorm damaged the structure earlier this month ADM petitioned for a permit to demolish the building saying it posed a safety threat to people around it.  Historical conservationists sued for a stay so they could attempt to buy it and restore it.  The group wants to turn the 120 year old building into a small business center and workhouse with a new outer shell that would have the word Buffalo in 3 story letters on the outside. 

The Buffalo Sabres lost to the New Jersey Devils 4-3 in their first game since December 17th.  Tage Thompson scored twice and Ethan Prow made a single goal.  The Sabres are now 10 and 16 and 5 for the season.  They play next against the New York Islanders in an away game tonight at 7:30pm.

Genesee County residents will have the chance to get their hands on free KN95 masks today. A distribution event is being held until 6:00pm, 12/29 at the Alva Place parking lot which is located at Alva Place and Bank Street in Batavia. The county has roughly 12,000 masks to give out and any masks that remain can be picked up at the County Clerk’s office and Department of Social Services office during regular business hours. Officials say the masks will help limit the spread of COVID-19 and go a long way towards keeping businesses open.

The trustee in the Michael Tomaszewski bankruptcy case has asked the court to order Tomaszewski’s wife to turn over an anticipated income tax refund once it is received. Over the previous two years, the Tomaszewski’s have jointly claimed refunds of over $27,000; the court order asks Ms. Tomaszewski to provide about $13,000 of this to the court to help settle some of Tomaszewski’s debts.

The ban on Styrofoam containers and packing peanuts goes into effect January 1st. Instead of the cheap containers restaurants have become accustomed to using for takeout needs, more expensive biodegradable containers are needed. This is part of the state’s effort to cut down on single use containers and waste. Some restaurants are complaining that this will increase their price on containers by over 300 percent.

Governor Kathy Hochul is urging New Yorkers to celebrate the upcoming New Year’s holiday safely as the spread of COVID-19 worsens across the state. Governor Hochul says before visiting any family and friends, it’s a good idea to get yourself tested for the virus so you don’t infect anyone. The governor also suggests that anyone who hasn’t received their COVID-19 vaccination or booster shot should schedule an appointment as soon as possible. As a reminder, there’s a statewide indoor mask mandate in effect through at least January 15th.

For the first time since December 17th, the Buffalo Sabres will be taking the ice for a game tonight. The Sabres are set to host the New Jersey Devils at KeyBank Center. Buffalo had several of its recent games postponed after the NHL decided to put the league on pause due to a growing number of COVID-19 cases among players and staff. The Sabres will be without their head coach as well as multiple players while in the league’s COVID-19 protocols; meanwhile, the Sabres called up players from the Amerks, to sub. Face off for this evening’s contest is scheduled for 7:00pm.

The Holland Land Office Museum will be closed from Tuesday, January 4th through Saturday, January 8th. The museum will be resuming its regular operating hours of Tuesday through Saturday 10 am to 4 pm on Tuesday, January 11th. For further information or questions please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com

Genesee County residents will have the chance to get their hands on free KN95 masks today. A distribution event is being held until 6:00pm, 12/29 at the Alva Place parking lot which is located at Alva Place and Bank Street in Batavia. The county has roughly 12,000 masks to give out and any masks that remain can be picked up at the County Clerk’s office and Department of Social Services office during regular business hours. Officials say the masks will help limit the spread of COVID-19 and go a long way towards keeping businesses open.

The trustee in the Michael Tomaszewski bankruptcy case has asked the court to order Tomaszewski’s wife to turn over an anticipated income tax refund once it is received. Over the previous two years, the Tomaszewski’s have jointly claimed refunds of over $27,000; the court order asks Ms. Tomaszewski to provide about $13,000 of this to the court to help settle some of Tomaszewski’s debts.

The ban on Styrofoam containers and packing peanuts goes into effect January 1st. Instead of the cheap containers restaurants have become accustomed to using for takeout needs, more expensive biodegradable containers are needed. This is part of the state’s effort to cut down on single use containers and waste. Some restaurants are complaining that this will increase their price on containers by over 300 percent.

Governor Kathy Hochul is urging New Yorkers to celebrate the upcoming New Year’s holiday safely as the spread of COVID-19 worsens across the state. Governor Hochul says before visiting any family and friends, it’s a good idea to get yourself tested for the virus so you don’t infect anyone. The governor also suggests that anyone who hasn’t received their COVID-19 vaccination or booster shot should schedule an appointment as soon as possible. As a reminder, there’s a statewide indoor mask mandate in effect through at least January 15th.

For the first time since December 17th, the Buffalo Sabres will be taking the ice for a game tonight. The Sabres are set to host the New Jersey Devils at KeyBank Center. Buffalo had several of its recent games postponed after the NHL decided to put the league on pause due to a growing number of COVID-19 cases among players and staff. The Sabres will be without their head coach as well as multiple players while in the league’s COVID-19 protocols; meanwhile, the Sabres called up players from the Amerks, to sub. Face off for this evening’s contest is scheduled for 7:00pm.

The Holland Land Office Museum will be closed from Tuesday, January 4th through Saturday, January 8th. The museum will be resuming its regular operating hours of Tuesday through Saturday 10 am to 4 pm on Tuesday, January 11th. For further information or questions please contact the museum at 585-343-4727 or hollandlandoffice@gmail.com

Genesee county is planning to host a free KN95 mask distribution today from 2 to 6pm at the Alva Place parking lot at the corner of Alva Place and Bank Street.  Additional KN95 masks will be available to the public during normal business hours at the Genesee County Clerk’s Office in County Building 1 at 15 Main St, Batavia, and the Genesee County Department of Social Services at 5130 East Main St, Batavia, while supplies last.  The free masks are provided by New York State. 

Governor Kathy Hochul says she has no intention to shut down schools in New York even with rising COVID numbers.  Instead the state is promising to send testing kits home with students.  The state is planning on distributing the kits to BOCES districts which will distribute them to the schools with enough for every student in New York.  Gov. Hochul said the tests likely won’t be delivered in time for students to be tested before returning from winter break, but she hopes they will be in by early next week.

Attorneys for victims of Michael Tomaszewski have filed a motion to have his and his wife’s tax refunds turned over to pay some of the debts from his many crimes.  Tomaszewski was sentenced to 2 to 6 years in prison for defrauding at least 91  people using his Funeral Home.  According to the motion, Michael and Valerie Tomaszewski have jointly claimed refunds of $27,121 for their 2019 and 2020 income tax filings.  The motion asks the court to order Valerie to turn over $13,560 to the court. In bankruptcy filings, Tomaszewski lists $1,094,346 in assets against $3,242,390 in liabilities.  The bankruptcy judge, Robert H. Jackson, has not yet responded to the motion.  

The ban on Styrofoam containers and packing peanuts goes into effect January 1st.  Instead of the cheap containers restaurants have become accustomed to using for takeout needs more expensive biodegradable containers are needed.  This is part of New York’s effort to cut down on single use containers and waste.  Some restaurants are complaining that this will increase their price on containers by over 300 percent.  

The Buffalo Sabres are recalling players from their Rochester Team the Americans to cover for players who are out on COVID protocol.  Peyton Krebs, Artuu Ruotsalainen and JJ Peterka are being brought back to be ready for the end of the holiday break tonight at 7 against the New Jersey Devils.  

Governor Kathy Hochul says there are no plans to shut down schools as the number of COVID-19 cases rise across the Empire State.  Governor Hochul said yesterday that testing kits will soon be distributed to districts in an effort to help them test students for coronavirus.  Her administration will talk with superintendents today to discuss the best ways to keep kids safe in school.  Governor Hochul is continuing to urge parents whose children are eligible to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to have them get their shots immediately so they have additional protection against the virus.

The investigation continues into an armed robbery that happened at a T-Mobile store in Rochester.  Police say an employee at the West Main Street store told them he was robbed at gunpoint and that the suspect took at least one phone and cash before leaving the scene.  No one inside the business at the time of the robbery was hurt.  No arrests have been made and anyone with information is asked to dial 9-1-1 immediately.

There are a few laws going into effect in the New Year that impact every New Yorker.  The big one is of course the legality of recreational marijuana. Many municipalities have voted to allow the sale of marijuana and the whole state is open to use.  If you want to get married and rent a limo you need to find one that has seat belts for every passenger. A new law goes into effect that stops insurers from charging more for homeowner insurance based on the breed of dog you have. Renters are not affected.  And lastly, mobile sports betting becomes legal this year.

Batavia Police continue to welcome information about 2 separate burglaries of Batavia gas stations over the weekend.  In both incidents, two suspects smashed a front window with construction debris found near the gas stations. The Batavia Police Department is looking for assistance identifying the suspects or if any citizens observed any suspicious events near the Valero Gas Station on Sunday, December 26, at or about 5:00 a.m.  You may use the CONFIDENTIAL TIP LINE at (585) 345-6370.  Pictures of the suspects are available on the website of WBTA’s news partner, The Batavian.

After urging from a majority of the state Senate, the state survey assessing gaps to New York’s broadband internet access was expanded to include paper surveys. This is provided to include individuals who lack access to high-speed Internet. New Yorkers have until February 28^th to complete the survey. Paper surveys are available by calling 1-855-692-2627.

The Monroe County Department of Public Health says the number of residents who have lost their lives due to the coronavirus has increased by 18.  The latest victims passed away between December 8th and 20th, bringing the death toll since the pandemic started to 1,568.  There were also over 1400 new infections reported between Saturday and Monday, pushing that tally to 109,309.

The CDC has issued new guidance on how quarantines after a person has tested positive for COVID should be handled.  Their new advice is that persons who test positive should only be in isolation for 5 days instead of 10 or the initial recommendation of 14. To minimize risk the people who are released after 5 days should be asymptomatic and agree to wear a mask for the next 5 days. Governor Hochul says she agrees and that New York State will keep following the data and science-based public health policies to protect New Yorkers.

Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel has donated dog food, cat food, litter boxes, cat litter and more to the Genesee County Animal Shelter. Batavia Downs gift bags also went to all shelter volunteers to thank them for helping with animals in need.

There are a few laws going into effect in the New Year that impact every New Yorker.  The big one is of course the legality of recreational marijuana.  Many municipalities have voted to allow the sale of marijuana and the whole state is open to use.  If you want to get married and rent a limo you need to find one that has seat belts for every passenger.  A new law goes into effect that stops insurers from charging more for homeowner insurance based on the breed of dog you have.  Renters are not affected.  And lastly, mobile sports betting becomes legal this year.  9 platforms have been approved so far. 

The CDC has issued new guidance on how quarantines after a person has tested positive for COVID should be handled.  Their new advice is that persons who test positive should only be in isolation for 5 days instead of 10 or the initial recommendation of 14.  To minimize risk the people who are released after 5 days should be asymptomatic and agree to wear a mask for the next 5 days.  Governor Hochul says she agrees and that New York State will keep following the data and science-based public health policies to protect New Yorkers.

A multi vehicle accident on East Main Street called for a sobriety test and ended with a man in custody.  At about 7pm an Audi sedan struck a parked car in front of KeyBank in Batavia, pushing the car into the one in front of it and driving the initial car up onto the curb.  City fire and EMS were dispatched.  The name of the driver has not been released.

Batavia Police are looking for any information about 2 separate burglaries of Batavia gas stations over the weekend.  In both incidents, two suspects smashed a front window with construction debris found near the gas stations. The suspects then made entry into the businesses and stole property.  The Batavia Police Department is looking for assistance identifying the suspects or if any citizens observed any suspicious events near the Valero Gas Station on Sunday, December 26, at or about 5:00 a.m.  Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Jason Ivison at (585) 345-6312.  You may also use the CONFIDENTIAL TIP LINE at (585) 345-6370.  Pictures of the suspects are on our new partner the Batavian’s website.

All vendors and visitors to state correctional facilities will now require proof of having been vaccinated against COVID 19 or have had a negative COVID test within 48 hours of their visit; this, according to a State department of Corrections announcement. No physical contact between visitors and incarcerated individuals is allowed. The recent surge in COVID cases led to unions requesting stricter visitation protocols.

Dr. Anthony Fauci urges Americans not to get complacent about the threat of COVID, despite studies suggesting the surging Omicron variant might be less severe than Delta, “because it might still lead to a lot of hospitalizations in the United States.” The number of Omicron cases has increased in both Erie and Monroe Counties. Today a vaccine mandate goes into effect in New York City, requiring workers and customers at indoor dining, fitness, entertainment, and performance venues to show proof that they have received a coronavirus vaccine.

A teenager has been taken to the hospital after being shot while inside of a home in Rochester. Police say the victim was at a residence on Hollenbeck Street last night when she was struck by a bullet that went through a wall. At the time of this report, information has been released about her condition. Anyone who has information on the case is asked to call police immediately.

Route 5 in Stafford was closed for a short time on Sunday pursuant to a call received by dispatchers that a detached garage on Main Road was burning. Stafford Fire responded and reported an uncooperative male had barricaded himself in the garage and was claiming it was rigged with explosives to blow up if anyone approached. Additional deputies, along with the State Police, and DEC responded. Route 5 was closed and
residents in the area were evacuated. The Batavia’s Police department’s armored emergency response vehicle was deployed along with negotiation specialists. The subject was taken into custody and criminal charges are pending. There was no threat to the general public. The incident was classified as a mental health emergency and the man taken to Strong.

The Buffalo Bills are back on top of the AFC East following a huge win on the road against a longtime rival. Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen threw for 314 yards and tossed three touchdown passes as the Bills beat the New England Patriots 33 to 21 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts yesterday. Running back Devin Singletary also had a rushing score for the Bills who improved their record this season to nine and six. Up next for Buffalo is a home game against the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday afternoon.

Western New York drivers are continuing to see consistent prices when it comes time to fill up their vehicles. According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular gas is now $3.50. That’s the same as it was last week and is three cents cheaper than this time one month ago. The state average is now $3.50 per gallon while nationally it’s $3.29.

The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum in Buffalo invites children and families to spend their winter break week playing at the museum. The museum will be open every day for safe, hands-on fun for the whole family with special activities planned daily. The week’s activities include:

• Storytelling throughout museum exhibits that focus on holidays around the world.
• Immerse yourself in a winter wonderland with storytelling and activities by Barb’s Book Buddies.
• Magic and game shows with Rob & Carol Allen, presented by Milk for Health.
• Learn to African dance and drum with the African American Cultural Center, followed by a live performance!
• Holiday-themed interactive activities throughout the museum.
• More fun surprises!

Route 5 in Stafford was closed for about an hour Sunday as 911 dispatchers received a call that a detached garage on Main road was on fire.  Stafford Fire responded and reported an uncooperative male had barricaded himself in the garage and was claiming it was rigged with explosives to blow up if approached.  Additional deputies, along with the State Police, and DEC responded.  Route 5 was closed and residents in the area were evacuated.  The Batavia’s Police department’s armored emergency response vehicle was deployed along with negotiation specialists.  The subject was taken into custody and criminal charges are pending. There was no threat to the general public.  This is being classified as a mental health emergency and the man was taken to Strong.

State correctional facilities will now require all visitors and vendors to prove they have been vaccinated against COVID 19 or a negative COVID test within 48 hours of their visit according to a State department of Corrections announcement.  Physical contact between visitors and incarcerated individuals will not be allowed.  Unions requested stricter visitation protocols because of the surge in COVID cases. There is no set end date for these new rules.  

Gas price update for Batavia the average price of a gallon of regular is 3.47 which is about the same as last week.  The State average is 3.50 which is 1 cent down from last week and the national average is 3.29.  According to Gasbuddy the amount of oil available is trending downward but the amount of Gas being refined is trending up.  Demand is up by about 10 percent.  This is leading to prices maintaining and only fluctuating mildly.  We can expect to see a slow drop in gas prices as there will be less travel after the holidays.

The Bills punished the Patriots on Sunday afternoon for their defeat several weeks ago by taking over the AFC East lead in a 33-21 win at the Patriots Foxborough stadium.  The Bills got an early lead with a 4th down touchdown pass in the 1st quarter.  The Patriots could not gain the lead at any point in the game.  This was the Bills last road game of the regular season, they host the Atlanta Falcons at 1:00 p.m. on January 2nd.

The Buffalo Sabres have placed head coach Don Granato along with forwards Dylan Cozens and Mark Jankowski in COVID-19 protocol.  The Sabres say all three are asymptomatic at this time.  The Sabres now have five players and their head coach in COVID-19 protocol.  Forward Vinnie Hinostroza entered COVID-19 protocol on Monday, while forwards Zemgus Girgensons and Jeff Skinner entered protocol on Tuesday.  The NHL is still on holiday with the planned resumption of the season on monday being pushed back to Tuesday.  The Sabres next scheduled game is against the New Jersey Devils at 7pm Wednesday at Keybank Center.

12 cases of the Omicron Variant of COVID 19 have been identified in Monroe County and several more have been reported in Erie County.  The Omicron variant is thought to have overtaken the Delta variant as the most dominant form of COVID in the US.  This suggests that there are many more cases than are being reported with most cases being asymptomatic and those which have symptoms being mild and most likely not being reported or tested for.  Omicron is up to 70 times as contagious as Delta, which was twice as contagious as COVID 19.  Dr Robert Mayo of Rochester Regional Health says that those who are vaccinated will still likely contract Omicron.

Governor Hochul has signed legislation that declares Racism a public health crisis in New York State.  It also establishes a working group to promote racial equity throughout the Empire State.  She also signed the Hate Crimes Analysis and Review Act which makes it so data is collected about the demographics of victims and perpetrators in any hate crimes.  At the same time Hochul also signed environmental protection legislation which forbids Hotels from using single use plastic bottles for shampoo and other personal care products and also prohibits summer and day camps from using pesticides.  

The Batavia Area’s unemployment rate has dropped, mainly because the number of people in the workforce has dropped.  The unemployment rate was at 3.3 percent in November.  Last year at the same time it was 4.9 percent.  The number of people in the laborforce is down by roughly a thousand people.  There are actually 500 less people with jobs than a year ago.  There are 900 people in the labor force who are currently unemployed, down from 1,400 a year ago, and down by 100 from last month.

The Aquarium of Niagara is holding a post Christmas promotion giving patrons 5 dollars off the entry ticket if they donate a winter accessory for Western New Yorkers in Need.  Yule Tide days include Ice formation and melt demonstrations, Visit by Santa and Mrs Claus to the Penguin Coast, Sea lion Shows, An activity time with the Snow Queen and Snow Princess from Frozen along with a Siberian Husky presentation, Scavenger hunts and Hot Cocoa and Cookies.  YuleTIDE Days will take place from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. between December 26 and December 31.

United Memorial Medical Center has stopped certain procedures for the next two weeks, to include non-essential elective inpatient, 23 hour and same-day elective surgeries and procedures. This decision resulted from the lack of bed capacity; at present, they now have less than 10% of their beds available. They are now considered an ‘impacted facility’, although this is not due exclusively to COVID-19 hospitalizations. UMMC encourages individuals with non-emergency needs to try to go to their Primary Care Physician first.

Governor Hochul has signed several pieces of legislation aimed at making it easier to combat the spread of COVID. The first, makes claiming to have been vaccinated against COVID falsely, a misdemeanor offense. The legislation classifies the crime as forgery of a written instrument. The second, allows schools to access and download the statewide immunization database for easier searching and keeping tabs on which student is vaccinated against what. Other legislation enacted several studies into the COVID response.

When it comes time to head to your holiday destination, it may be quicker to take state highways to get where you’re going. That’s because until six a-m Monday, temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on those roads are suspended. Travelers are urged to take advantage of rest stops on the Thruway so they can get a break when needed. Drivers can also receive traffic updates on their phones by downloading the Thruway Authority’s mobile app.

If you’re planning to attend a game or event at the Bills Stadium, Blue Cross Arena, or KeyBank Center with a child aged 5-11, proof of their vaccination will also be necessary. All guests age 5 and older now must show an original vaccination card, Excelsior Pass, or government proof of vaccination to enter. At this time, this is only for large venue locations requiring vaccination for entry.

GO Health now accepts results of at-home COVID tests. The Health Department has announced that they have developed an online form that allows people to report their positive test results from at-home kits. The form requires you take a picture of the test to prove the results as well as authenticity of the test. Any positive results must be reported within 24 hours of taking the test. Negative tests do not need to be reported.

And in the spirit of the season, the LeRoy Knights have donated gifts to residents and staff at LeRoy Village Green. WBTA News learned of this kindness for our news partner, The Batavian; their website has a video with details.

Wednesday afternoon Governor Hochul signed several pieces of legislation aimed at making it easier to combat the spread of COVID.  The first piece makes claiming to have been vaccinated against COVID falsely a misdemeanor offense.  The legislation classifies the crime as forgery of a written instrument.  The second of note makes schools able to access the statewide immunization database and download the database for easier searching and keeping tabs on which student is vaccinated against what.  Other legislation enacted several studies into the COVID response.

The United Memorial Medical Center has suspended elective surgeries for the next 2 weeks starting today.  The hospital now counts as an impacted facility.  UMMC will suspend all non-essential elective inpatient, 23-hour and same day elective surgeries and procedures.  The Health department says that the hospital has less than 10 percent of its beds free.

Want to go to a game or event at the Bills Stadium, Blue Cross Arena, or KeyBank Center with a child 5-11 years old?  Better be ready to show a proof of vaccination for the kid too.  All guests 5 and up now must show an original vaccination card, Excelsior Pass, or government proof of vaccination to enter.  So far these are the only large venue locations in the area requiring vaccination for entry.

GO Health is now able to accept the results of at home COVID test.  The Health department announced on Wednesday that they have developed an online form that allows people to report their positive test results from at-home kits.  The form requires that you take a picture of the test to prove the results and the authenticity of the test.  Any positive results must be reported within 24 hours of taking the test.  Negative tests do not need to be reported.

West Seneca Police are warning of people using Apple Airtags to stalk people.  Airtags are quarter sized metal disks that can be used to find things by tracking the disc and anything it is attached to on your phone so long as it is can connect to a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth signal.  People noticed that they had been tagged with one of these devices when their phone warned them that someone could see their location.  Police were able to find one of the devices secreted into a car’s undercarriage but were not able to find others.  They say it can be nearly impossible as the tags are so small.  Police warn that the tags can be used to follow someone electronically and possibly set them up for robbery or other crimes.  You can install a Bluetooth scanner on your phone that tells you when there are Bluetooth devices near you to see if you have been tagged.

Michael Tomaszewski

The Batavia funeral director who bilked local customers out of more than a half-million dollars will do prison time.
49-year-old Michael Tomaszewski was sentenced today in Genesee County Court to 2 to 6 years in prison.
Tomaszewski had nothing to say to the court when sentenced by retiring judge Charles Zambito.
Tomaszewski was also ordered to pay restitution to his victims.
He was arrested in July of last year. Prosecutors said Tomaszewski accepted money for pre-payment of funerals and never deposited in a trust account, as required by law.
He pled guilty earlier this year and has managed to avoid sentencing until today.
He had also pled guilty to a public health law violation for storing a body in his funeral home garage for 10 months.

National Grid is reporting 740 Genesee County customers are without
Power this afternoon.
The outage has occurred in the Towns or Batavia and Alexander and a few customers in the city.
Power is expected to be restored later this afternoon.

It was a tractor-trailer crashing into a utility pole that darkened about 400 homes on Batavia’s west side early this morning.
The big rig struck the pole around 10 last night on North Lyons Street.

For the second year in a row, students in New York State will not be taking Regents exams in January. The Education Department has once again canceled the tests due to concerns surrounding COVID-19.
No decision has been made on whether Regents exams will be offered in June or August.

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual home show on April 8, 9 &; 10. The Show will be held at the Batavia Ice Arena. Contact the chamber to reserve a space for your business.

Power was knocked out for over 400 National Grid customers on the west side of Batavia early this morning, for a total of four and a half hours. This resulted when a tractor trailer truck hit a pole and took down lines in the area of 75 North Lyons Street, around 10:00pm last night. At this time, power due to this outage has been restored to all National Grid customers in that area.

The former Santy’s Tires building on Ellicott Street, along with the former Soccio & Della Penna building are nearly gone.  WBTA News partner The Batavian reports the project is part of the redevelopment effort downtown known as Ellicott Station. The brownfield redevelopment site has been vacant for many years and has been a challenge to redevelop because of environmental contamination. Grants and tax abatements, about 15 percent of the project’s $22 million price tag, help to offset the cost of environmental clean-up. Savarino Companies of Buffalo plans for the site 55 apartments, office space, and a restaurant.

For the second year in a row, students across state are not going to be taking any Regents exams in January. The Education Department has once again canceled the tests due to concerns surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis. The Board of Regents is now being asked to modify the requirements students must meet in order to earn their diplomas, endorsements or credentials. No decision has been made on whether scheduled Regents exams will happen next June or August.

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce has advised us that the 2022 Home Show has been scheduled for April 8, 9 & 10. The Show will be held at the Batavia Ice Arena. Vendor applications are being accepted and can be downloaded from the Chamber’s home page online and are also available at the Chamber’s office, 8276 Park Road. Space is limited and on a first come basis.

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles announced today that wait times at their offices have dropped to the lowest they have ever been. Many customers are served within 15 minutes. This is due in large part by their offering more than 60 transactions online, including renewing a license or registration, registering a vehicle, ordering replacement documents, and changing an address.

A Buffalo Bills touchdown celebration goes viral for a life-long Bills fan from Batavia.
Insurance Agent Richard Donahue has been attending Bills games for 30 years. He has perfect seats in what has become known over the years as the Batavia Party Zone.
During Sunday’s big win over the Carolina Panthers the Bills’ Offensive Lineman Spencer Brown where celebrating Stefan Diggs touchdown catch.
Donahue tells us today: that’s where things got crazy…

PHOTO: Bill’s Stefan Diggs grabs beer from Rich Donahue (dark blue cap) of Batavia 

But he did take it and Diggs later tweeted he owes the fan a beer. Richard says he hasn’t heard from Diggs or Brown but he’s heard from fans around the country as the scene has gone viral on social media.

With the number of new COVID-19 cases reaching another record high, New York State is taking more steps to combat a winter surge of the virus.
Governor Hochul says the state is ordering millions of at-home coronavirus tests, opening more testing sites and sending more support staff to hospitals to help doctors and nurses treat a growing number of patients.
New York State’s seven-day average COVID-19 positivity rate is now seven-point-four percent.

Genesee County currently has 35 residents hospitalized with COVID-19.
The county health department reports today that 209 people have tested positive COVID-19 tests since last Thursday.

A 72-year-old Batavia man has been arrested for stalking.
Sidney Underhill was collared by Batavia Police for allegedly a Swan Street resident eventually showing up in the resident’s backyard.
An order of protection was issued and Underhill was released on his own recognizance.

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced New York State’s Restaurant Resiliency Program will be delivering 200,000 meals to New Yorkers in need through the end of the holiday season. Restaurants involved in the program are in all regions of the state and represent the diversity of the state; for example, many participating restaurants prepare Kosher meals and minority and women owned businesses are represented, as well. Follow this link for more information.

Today marks the official start of the winter season. Winter will run through Sunday, March 20th. Winter is the period where depression and mental illness reach their annual highs. Make sure to reach out and connect with loved ones periodically and look out for the markers of mental health issues. One source of support locally is available by contacting Genesee County Mental Health. (344-1421)

There’s a new development to report in the ongoing negotiations to build a brand-new stadium for the Buffalo Bills. Governor Hochul said that the state will accept the facility being built in Orchard Park if that’s where team officials want it to be. Talks have been underway for months on the construction of a new stadium across from Highmark Stadium which is where the Bills currently play their home games. Hochul says everyone involved in the discussions wants to keep the Bills in Western New York.

The Buffalo Sabres won’t be playing any games this week due to the NHL deciding to put the league on pause due to multiple COVID-19 outbreaks teams. The Sabres were set to take on the Columbus Blue Jackets last night and on Thursday and the Colorado Avalanche on Wednesday. Buffalo’s next scheduled contest is set for December 27th when they host the New York Islanders. There’s no word yet on when the postponed games will be made up.

Just four days to Christmas, and it looks increasingly like the majority of the nation, including our area, won’t have snow on the ground when Santa comes down the chimney. A white Christmas may be a reality for some but wishful thinking for us. Some locations across the country have been blanketed by recent snowfall from the many storms that have moved across the country so far this month, but the inch or so predicted for us over the next day or so, won’t likely be sticking around too long. 13 WHAM meteorologists have been keeping a close eye on the Christmas forecast. However, with highs predicted to reach the mid-40’s on Saturday, our chances for a White Christmas seem low this year.

Governor Hochul announced funding for county health departments to help with COVID.  Up to $1 million will be available for most counties, with larger counties eligible to receive up to $2 million. She said that enforcement of the COVID mandates will be done primarily by the local health departments. The new funds will apply to expenses incurred by counties and local health departments from when the “mask-or-vaccine” mandate was announced on Dec. 10 until its planned expiration on Jan. 15, 2022.  The money will be for reimbursing county health departments and they will have to apply for any funds.  Hocuhl also announced more at home tests and masks being distributed. 

You may have been singing about walking in a winter wonderland since the end of Halloween but that was all unofficial till the 21st of December.  Today marks the official start of the winter season.  Winter will run through Sunday, March 20th.  Winter is the period where depression and mental illness reach their annual highs.  Make sure to reach out and connect with loved ones periodically and look out for the markers of mental health issues.  

The Great Northern Grain Elevator in Buffalo won’t be demolished just yet.  The State Supreme Court has issued a restraining order till Wednesday when a court hearing will be held on the matter of it’s demolition.  The order comes as The Campaign for Greater Buffalo preservation group sued to stop the destruction of the 120 year old site which was on the cover of the Christmas Issue of the 1897 Scientific American and was one of the first buildings to be lit by Tesla Generating Station.  ADM which owns the building says it is a risk to public health because of falling debris hitting an active rail way and flying metal from the roof. 

The Sabres next game will be against the New York Rangers.  All Three of the games they were supposed to have this week, Monday against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Wednesday against the Colorado Avalanche and then Thursday back to the Blue Jackets, have all been postponed due to COVID cases on those teams.  Their next game that hasn’t been rescheduled is Monday the 27th at 7pm in buffalo at the Keybank Center.

Governor Kathy Hochul this morning visited the Wyoming County Community hospital with words of gratitude for healthcare workers and a renewed call for COVID vaccinations…
She called the healthcare workers, “angels on earth” ..

PHOTO: Gov Hochul speaks at WCCH this morning

The governor noted that 14 percent of Wyoming County residents have tested positive for COVID and that does not include those who are testing at home. Hochul predicts that after Christmas the number will go up again.

Batavia gasoline prices are up a penny from last week. The average price of a gallon of regular is now $3.46.
Just one year ago, the average price was $2.22 a gallon.

The annual New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square is on for now but that could change because of the coronavirus surge. All revelers must be fully vaccinated. Officials say a decision will be made before Christmas if changes to ball drop festivities are needed.

With controversy over former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s book, there’s legislation in Albany that would ban state officials from helping their co-workers with side businesses or money-making projects even on their own time. The Joint Commission on Public Ethics accuses Cuomo of using state resources and staffers to help write the book.

The Buffalo Bills have finally put an end to their two-game losing streak.
The Bills bested the Carolina Panthers yesterday 31 to 14.
Up next for Buffalo is a showdown on the road with the Patriots this coming Sunday.

UPDATE: The Buffalo Sabres game scheduled for tonight and Thursday night against Columbus has been cancelled due to COVID.

For the second week in a row, Western New York drivers will be paying a bit less at the gas pumps. According to Triple A, the average cost for a gallon of regular fuel is $3.50. That’s down a penny from last week and is three cents cheaper than this time one month ago. The state average is sitting at $3.51 a gallon while the national average is $3.51.

Wreaths Across America honored veterans at the Western New York National Cemetery in Pembroke Saturday with a ceremony and wreath laying. Medal of Honor recipient David Bellavia who grew up in Orleans County and graduated Lyndonville High spoke about the meaning of sacrifice and being part of the family of service. During the ceremony, Wreaths Across America also celebrated the over 3000 locations across the country.

Governor Hochul continues to talk about plans to bring a vaccine mandate for all school age children to New York State this coming September. Hochul notes experiencing some constraints by her lack of emergency powers which Cuomo had but she does not. She also said she has to bring it before the State Legislature which other states, for example California, do not have to do. The governor says she has the goal of making the mandate a reality in schools come September.

After a rough couple of weeks, the Buffalo Bills have finally put an end to their two-game losing streak. Quarterback Josh Allen threw for 210 yards and three touchdowns as the Bills beat the Carolina Panthers 31-to-14 at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park yesterday. Buffalo running back Devin Singletary had a rushing score as the Bills improved their record to eight and six, which puts them one game behind the New England Patriots in the battle for first place in the AFC East. Up next for Buffalo is a showdown on the road with the Patriots this coming Sunday.

The number of New Yorkers who have tested positive for the coronavirus has reached yet another record high, with single-day increases in cases the largest since the beginning of the pandemic. Governor Hochul is once again reminding people about the importance of protecting themselves and others from contracting the illness. She says wearing a mask indoors or in large gatherings plus being vaccinated against the virus will slow the ongoing surge in cases. Currently, the seven-day average COVID-19 positivity rate in the Finger Lakes region is at eight-point-three percent, which is down from eight-point-five percent last week.

Governor Hochul talked about her plans to bring a vaccine mandate for all school age children to New York State this coming September over the weekend.  Hochul said she is constrained by her lack of emergency powers which Cuomo had but she does not.  She also said she has to bring it before the State Legislature which states like California do not have to do.  The governor says she has the goal of making the mandate a reality in schools come September.

Wreaths Across America honored veterans at the Western New York National Cemetery in Pembroke Saturday with a ceremony and wreath laying.  Medal of Honor recipient David Bellavia who grew up in Orleans county and graduated Lyndonville High spoke about the meaning of sacrifice and being part of the family of service.  Wreaths Across America celebrated 3,136 locations across the country on Saturday.  

Interested in a guided hike through the Genesee County Park and Forest?  Or maybe you want to see the snow covered trees under the stars?  Join a hike on January 8th or February 12th from either 1 to 3 or 7 to 9.  Snowshoes can be provided with a lesson included in the price of admission.  Price for the hikes is 5 dollars an individual or 15 for a family.  Pre-registration is required, call 585 344 1122 to get a spot.

GO Art has a new library dedicated to the family of Jim Owen, who, himself not being an artist, had a family of artists and contributors to the arts.  The Owen Library features art books, a white baby grand piano, a fireplace and table games.  Stop into GO Art at Seymour Place and relax with a book or game.

The Buffalo Bills slew the North Carolina Panthers Sunday afternoon 31-14.  The Bills approached the game at Highmark Stadium with 5 players out.  2 were on COVID reserve and the other 3 had injuries.  Allen recovered from his sprained foot last week to play and after a lackluster 1st quarter the Bills and Panthers both started racking up points on the board.  The game ended with an interception and the Bills kneeling to win.  The Bills are set to play the Patriots in Foxborough the day after Christmas for the AFC East champion spot. 

Genesee County’s Local Drug Task Force slaps metal bracelets on a Porter Avenue man. 22-year-old Tarrance Williams is facing felony drug charges and a felony firearm charge. Deputies say they were called to the Quality Inn and Suites on Park Road last night where Williams got into a fracas with another man. When taken into custody, deputies found a quantity of crack cocaine on Wilson along with a suspected illegal gun.

The Genesee County Grand Jury hands up indictments accusing two local people of assault. Rae C. Cook has been indicted for assault and criminal possession of a weapon for allegedly going after another a person with a pair scissors during a fracas last October.
Joshua Webster has been indicted for aggravated criminal contempt and third-degree assault. Webster is accused of violating an order of protection by hurting a person covered by the order. The suspected incident took place in LeRoy bank in September.

New York State Police will be keeping eye out for potential impaired drivers during the Holidays.
The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign begins today.
Through the holidays, drivers can expect to see increased patrols with the goal of reducing the number of alcohol and drug-related traffic accidents. Police ask that you make sure you have a safe ride home by choosing a designated driver or planning to use a ride-sharing service.

A Winter Weather Advisory has been posted for Wyoming County beginning early tomorrow morning.
The National Weather Service is forecasting snow, chang8ing to sleet and freezing rain.
The advisory also covers Livingston County and remains in effect until 1 o’clock tomorrow afternoon.

Beginning today, state police will be keeping a close eye out for dangerous drivers as the ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign begins. Through the holidays, drivers can expect to see increased patrols with police goals of reducing the number of alcohol and drug-related traffic accidents. Police ask that you make sure you have a safe ride home by choosing a designated driver or planning to use a ride-sharing service.

Federal funding of over $150,000 is on its way to the Genesee County Airport. The money can be used for improvements related to safety, runways, taxiways, as well as terminal, airport transit connections and roadway projects.

People who are past due on their payments to utility companies may soon have their utilities turned off as the statewide moratorium on shutoffs ends next Tuesday, December 21. As of September, there were over 1.2 million households in the state that were late with payments; this, according to the Public Utility Law Project. There are options. Governor Hochul noted the Home Energy Assistance Program is available to assist homeowners and renters with heating costs. The Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance as well as the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program may also be available to help.

The Buffalo Bills will be back in front of their home fans this weekend as they try and avoid a three-game losing streak. The Bills are hosting the Carolina Panthers. Buffalo is hoping to have starting quarterback Josh Allen in the lineup after he suffered a foot injury in last week’s loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bills have a record of seven wins and six losses this season and are in second place in the AFC East. Kickoff for Sunday’s contest is scheduled for one p-m.

Anyone who is concerned about paying off those holiday bills may want to play the lottery the next couple of days since there’s over 500-million-dollars in prize money up for grabs. The jackpot for tonight’s Mega Millions drawing is $160-million, while $353-million will go to whoever wins tomorrow’s Powerball jackpot. As always, the cost of a ticket for each game is just two-dollars. Both the Mega Millions and Powerball drawings are going to be streamed live online.

Parents call for faculty and administration to enforce the rules at Batavia City Schools.  According to Rebecca Eldridge, her son who attends Batavia high was assaulted in class which resulted in a bloody nose, swollen eye, bruised ribs and cuts to his legs and then the teacher sent him to his next class.  Afterwards he was suspended for fighting back against the bully who beat him.  School staff confirmed that administration lied to Eldridge saying there was no recording of the incident but IT staff said there was.  Other parents have come forward at School Board meetings demanding change at the city schools as violence and bullying are reaching new highs every week.  One student was suspended from school for printing handouts that pointed out bullying incidents that went without any response from the school.  Interim Superintendent, Scott Bischoping, when asked by our news partner the Batavian, said “he couldn’t comment on specific student discipline.”

The statewide moratorium on utility shutoffs is ending December 21st.  What this means is people who are overdue on their payments to the gas, electric and water companies can have their utilities turned off starting next Tuesday.  More than 1.2 million homes in New York were late on their payments as of september according to Public Utility Law Project.  Governor Hochul says that New Yorkers have options for covering their costs.  Home energy assistance program can assist homeowners and renters with heating costs.  The Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance as well as the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program are also able to help.  

The Genesee County STOP-DWI Coordinator announced thursday that the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Batavia Police Department and the Village of LeRoy Police Department will be participating in a coordinated effort with the STOP-DWI program to bring awareness to the dangers of impaired driving.  This will go from Friday the 17th through Saturday January 1st.  

The Buffalo Sabres beat the Minnesota Wild 3 to 2 in a shootout Thursday night at the Wild’s home ice.  Tage Thompson scored the winning goal with Dylan Cozens and Mark Pysyk setting up the tie game.  Buffalo’s road trip continues tomorrow night when they take on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Puck drop in the Steel City is at 7:00 p.m.

The Batavia Town board has opted out of allowing cannabis retail dispensaries in the town.
The vote last night was 3 to 2. Town Supervisor Greg Post and councilmembers Patti Michalak and Sharon White all voted to opt out.
Councilmen Chad Zambito and Dan Underhill voted to opt in.
But…by opting out, the town can later put the issue to a public referendum.
If they had opted in, the town would lose the option of putting the issue to a vote.

From Genesee County Court: Plush Dozier has been sentenced to 25 years to life for setting girlfriend on fire in a Maple Street apartment more than three years ago.
Dozier was charged with arson and attempted murder. He was found guilty following a jury trial.

Also from County Court:

Jason Sponaugle has been sentenced to two 15-year terms in state prison for his role in the in a gun deal gone bad.
Sponaugle was charged with the attempted murder of Jason Whitehead at the Days in Batavia in July of 2020.
Sponaugle will serve the two terms consecutively, and then be put on probation for five years.

A wind Advisory remains in effect until 1 AM Friday morning.
The advisory covers all of Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties and most of Western New York.
Winds are forecast out of the Southwest at 25 to 35 miles per hour with gusts as high as 55.

After picking up their first victory since late November on Tuesday, the Buffalo Sabres will try and win their second straight game tonight.
The Sabres are set to take on the Minnesota Wild.
he Sabres are currently in sixth place in the Atlantic Division.

The Child Tax Credit program is reaching its end for this year.  The program, which sent 300 to 250 dollars per child 17 and under to families is expiring at the end of December unless Congress renews it.  The tax credit was half of the usual tax credit that people have been claiming for over 20 years.  The difference this year was that instead of just being a credit on your year end taxes, the government paid it forward by sending half the money in monthly installments and reserving the other half for tax time.   

The Batavia Town Board voted Wednesday night to opt out of Marijuana retail dispensaries.  The vote was 3 to 2 with Greg Post, Patti Michalak and Sharon White voting to opt out and Chad Zambito and Dan Underhill voting to opt in.  This sets up the issue to public referendum.  Kelly March of Clinton Street Road, appearing before the board for the second straight meeting to voice her support for the cannabis legislation, said she was “disappointed” in the outcome but vowed to press on through the permissive referendum process.

There is a Wind Advisory until 1am Friday for Orleans, Genesee, and Wyoming Counties. Winds on Thursday will gust 40 to 50mph.  Remember to secure anything that may be blown away by the wind and take care when driving in a high profile vehicle.  This storm is not expected to be as severe as Saturday’s wind storm.

Jacob Sponaugle, convicted at jury trial on Nov. 17 of attempted murder, assault in the first degree, and criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, was sentenced to two 15-year sentences in state prison as well as a 2 1/3 to seven-year sentence.  The prosecution argued that Sponaugle shot Jason Whitehead for no reason and showed no remorse for the crime.  Sponaugle’s co-defendant, Devon Wright, made a plea deal to be free for the birth of his first child and then went missing.  He has been wanted by Batavia PD since November 27th.

Livingston County’s bicentennial year is coming to a close.  The last event of 2021 includes the placement of a time capsule in the safe at the government center in Geneseo on Wednesday.  The county historian’s office is inviting the public to sign a parchment scroll, which will be placed in the time capsule to be opened in 50 years.

The National Weather Service has posted a Wind Advisory of most of Western New York, including Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties.
The advisory takes effect tomorrow morning and runs through the day.
Southwest winds of 20 to 30 miles per hour are forecast with gusts up to 50.
The weather service says that gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects and cause a few isolated power outages.
It was just last weekend the area was struck by winds in excess of 70 miles per hour and caused thousand to lose power.
So far, at least, winds that high are not forecast for tomorrow.

Genesee County Sheriff’s Deputies say what appeared to be a deadly auto accident in the Town of Alabama was most likely a fatal medical emergency.
The incident happened early last evening on Alleghany Road.
A pick-up was located about 100 yards off the highway.
A 9-1-1 call was made by On-star but all dispatchers could hear was a horn blowing. There was no response from the victim.
The victim, a man who has not been identified, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Governor Hochul is defending her order that masks must be worn in all public places statewide unless there’s a vaccine requirement in place. She cites an anticipated holiday spike in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations combined with the highly contagious omicron variant as reasons for the mask rule. The governor says she hopes the mask rule will be temporary.

Members of the state ethics commission say ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo must repay the proceeds generated by his multi-million-dollar book deal. The ethics panel says Cuomo broke a promise not to use state resources or government staff in writing the book and that he must hand over the proceeds to the Attorney General’s office within the next 30 days.

The long winless streak of the Buffalo Sabres has finally come to an end following a much-needed win on the road.
The victory was the first for the Sabres since they defeated the Montreal Canadiens in late November. Buffalo’s next game will be tomorrow night when they visit the Minnesota Wild.

Police respond to a voiceless 911 call and find a man dead in a field.  At about 5pm on Tuesday the Sheriffs office received a 911 call from On-Star services saying there was an emergency in the area of 7033 Rt 77 in alabama.  In the call the dispatcher could hear a car horn and the sound of 4 way blinkers but there was no response to questions.  Deputies found a Ford f-150 in a field about 50 yards off the road.  The truck appeared to have little to no damage and had one person, the driver, in it who was unresponsive.  After attempting life saving measures the driver was pronounced dead at the scene.  He was identified as 55 year old Mark Morlock of Cheektowaga.  It is believed he had a medical episode while driving and managed to signal for help with his On-Star before veering off the road and passing away.  Genesee County Sheriffs are investigating.

There is a Wind Advisory for Thursday for most of Western New York including Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties.  It starts at 9am Thursday and goes through 1am Friday.  It is not expected to be as severe as Saturdays storm.  20-30 mile per hour southwest winds and gusts of up to 50 mile per hour are expected.

Former Governor Cuomo has been ordered to give the money he took for his book on New York’s COVID response back to the state.  An ethics panel decided this based on Cuomo using government resources to produce the book.  He owes 5.1 million dollars.  An attorney for Cuomo immediately called the action unconstitutional and promised a fight.

44 year old Jon Magliocco of Batavia has plead guilty to rape and sexual abuse.  Magliocco has prior sexual abuse convitions.  He admitted to having sex without a persons consent in August of 2021 at a home on Mill Street.  He was charged with 3rd degree Rape, 1st degree criminal sex act, and 3rd degree crinminal sexual abuse.  He is facing up to 8 years in prison and is being held without bail.

For the first time since 2015, City of Batavia Firefighters Local 896 handed out warm jackets to children in the community as part of Operation Warm.  This year, the program was backed by a generous $2,000 donation from Batavia Downs, along with $300 from the union and another $600 in community donations.   There were 144 jackets handed out yesterday at Robert Morris.

The Buffalo Sabres have won a game for the first time since November 26th.  The Sabres beat the Jets 4 to 2 Tuesday night at Canada Life Center in Winnipeg ending their 7 game losing streak.  Rasmus Dahlin scored the first and 3rd goals and Andres Bjork and Jeff Skinner scored the other 2.  The next game for the Sabres is in Minnesota taking on the Wild Thursday at 8pm.

This week’s high winds damaged the roof over the auditorium at Batavia High School.
School officials have closed the auditorium until repairs are made.
The damage prevents outside air from entering the building and fresh outside air is required by the State Education Department.
The school has already brought a roofing contractor to make permanent repairs.
The rest of BHS is operating normally.

There is a new Councilwoman representing Batavia’s Ward Six. She is Tammy Schmidt, handpicked by long time Ward Six Councilwoman Rose Mary Christian and confirmed unanimously by the council last might.
Schmidt works in the field of financial management.

By doing nothing, the Batavia City Council has given tacit approval for legal pot dispensaries in Batavia. New York State is requiring municipalities to make their intentions known by December 31st. By taking no action, the council is opting in, automatically.
Council President Gene Jankowski says he wants to city to grab any tax money the pot shops bring in.

PHOTO: Eugene Jankowski, City Council President

Jankowski admitted some constituents he spoke with were critical of the way the state went about allowing legal weed.

State Police are still investigating the discovery of human remains in Livingston County. The remains were spotted yesterday in a drainage ditch in the area of State Route 36 near State Route 70 in the Town of Dansville. Officials are continuing to work on figuring out the identity of the remains.

The Buffalo Sabres will be back on the road tonight as they try and snap their long winless streak. The Sabres are taking on the Winnipeg Jets. The Sabres haven’t won a game since beating the Montreal Canadiens in late November. Buffalo currently sits in sixth place in the NHL’s Atlantic Division. Face-off for tonight’s contest is set for 8 p.m.

Genesee, Orleans and Livingston County health departments have essentially said they are not enforcing the Mask or Vaccine Mandate which went into effect Monday across New York State.  They say they don’t have the resources to police businesses and public gathering places and will instead spend their efforts on providing free vaccinations and testing.  GO Health released a statement saying they will focus on Educating to Cooperate and continue teaching people the benefits of social distancing and masking.  They join many other upstate counties which expressed similar sentiment. 

It looks like no opinion equals assent at the City council.  The city of Batavia held its Conference meeting in the City Hall Board Room Monday night and, because the matter was never brought up for discussion, appears to be opting into Recreational Marijuana sales in Batavia.  According to the legislation from the state, a municipality has to expressly opt out or they are automatically in as of December 31st.  Since the city hasn’t made a decision and doesn’t intend to by the end of the year, Batavia will be able to have stores selling Marijuana legally.  

The Batavia High school took some damage in the wind storm on Saturday.  The Auditorium is closed as the dampers that draw in air were damaged and must be repaired before the room can be used again.  The roof of the school was damaged and a repair crew started inspecting it and weatherproofing work on Monday.  

Due to the windstorm over this past weekend, operations of the Law Street Yard Waste Station have been extended from December 13th until Saturday, December 18th.  Hours of operation will remain the same, 11:00 a.m. to  5:00 p.m. each day.

GCC is hosting an open house of the new Technical Training Solar Lab in the Stuart Steiner Theatre Building.  Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with instructors, tour the lab, and enjoy coffee and refreshments. The new lab will fully prepare Solar Electric Technician students to meet the huge demand for workers in the photovoltaic field.  Further details on the Solar Electric Technician program can be found by following the link at wbtai.com.

https://www.genesee.edu/home/academics/programs/tech/solartech/

Batavia Police have arrested a 22-year-old Fulton, New York woman for allegedly breaking into GoArt last August.
Talana Savery and another unknown woman were spotted on surveillance video inside the historic GoArt building at 4 in the morning on August 28th.. Nothing was taken.
Police said the same pair broke a window and entered the Rolling Hills Asylum in Bethany later in the morning.
Authorities said their motive appeared to be “ghost hunting.”

Attica Central School Board of Education has named a new interim Superintendent. He is Timothy Hayes most recently superintendent of Geneseo Central. Hayes will serve at Attica Central until June of next year while the search for a permanent superintendent continues.

While speaking of Attica, the village will be picking up debris from this past weekend’s wind storm on Thursday, December 16th.
Also, the last day the Village will be picking up leaves will be Wednesday, December 15th.
Village of Attica government asks you to keep storm debris and leaves in separate piles.

Our weekly check on Batavia gasoline prices: The average cost of a gallon of regular gas went up a penny from last week. It is now $3.47 a gallon
The highest price ever for a gallon of regular in Batavia was $4.73, back in July 2018.

A statewide mask mandate is now in effect. Governor Hochul says facial coverings are required at all indoor public places unless the business or venue has a COVID-19 vaccination requirement in effect. Masks also must be worn in health care settings, at adult care facilities, in public schools and on public transportation regardless of a person’s vaccination status.

The high winds that were forecast over the weekend are still having an impact this afternoon.
National Grid says 2,360 customers in Genesee County are still without power. Those customers may not get their power back until midnight tonight.
3,283 customers are without power in Orleans County and just over 728 are without lights in Wyoming County. Restoration in those counties also estimated as late as midnight tonight.

This note for Attica residents: The Village of Attica will be picking up debris from this past weekend’s wind storm this Thursday, December 16th.
Also, the last day the Village will be picking up leaves will be Wednesday, December 15th.
The village asks you to keep storm debris and leaves in separate piles.

A statewide mask mandate is now in effect. Governor Hochul says facial coverings are required at all indoor public places unless the business or venue has a COVID-19 vaccination requirement in effect. Masks also must be worn in health care settings, at adult care facilities, in public schools and on public transportation regardless of a person’s vaccination status. Violators who don’t follow the mandate could receive a maximum fine of $1,000. The mandate will be in place until at least January 15th but could be extended.

Our weekly check on Batavia gasoline prices: The average cost of a gallon of regular went up a penny from last week. It is now $3.47 a gallon
The highest price for a gallon of regular in Batavia was $4.73, back in July 2018.

The Buffalo Bills are now dealing with a two-game losing streak following a heartbreaking defeat at the hands of the defending Super Bowl champions. After falling behind 24 to three, the Bills staged a rally and forced yesterday’s game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to overtime. Then came Tom Brady with a TD and beat the Bills 33 – 27. The Bills are now seven and six this season and remain behind the New England Patriots in the AFC East

National Grid sent out more than 3400 workers to restore power to the nearly 235,000 people who were without power after the high winds Saturday.  The storm caused 225 broken utility poles, 100 damaged transformers, and hundreds of toppled trees, tree limbs and downed wires.  35 thousand customers are still without power.  Genesee county was among those hardest hit with over 8000 outages reported.  National Grid is estimating that it will take till 11:30pm today to finish restoring power in Western NY.

The mask or vaccination mandate is in effect.  With the new mandate businesses must choose either to make sure that all patrons are vaccinated or have all patrons wear masks or face a 1000 dollar fine for each patron who is not following the mandate.  Businesses may use CDC vaccine cards, the Excelsior Pass, Excelsior Pass Plus, SMART Health Cards issued outside of New York State.  New York state health commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett said vaccinations and masks are necessary to slow the spread of the omicron variant.  A statement was issued by GO Health leadership, “To reduce the spread in our communities, we need to increase vaccination rates and increase testing in order to identify and isolate those who are positive with COVID-19.  However, rural county health departments continue to have issues securing additional testing resources. GO Health and local officials continue to advocate for additional resources and assistance from the state in order to have free testing in our communities.”

The Buffalo Sabres lost Saturday against the Capitals in a shootout 3 to 2.  Vinnie Hinostroza scored the first goal and Will Butcher scored the last goal.  Buffalo is going against the Jets in Winnipeg on Thursday as the start of a 3 game road trip.

The Buffalo Bills fell short in a heartbreaker loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 33-27 in Overtime.  The Bills had been behind 24-3 at half time and then a rushing touchdown by Allen, and throws to Knox and Davis brought it to a one score game.  A field goal with less than a minute to go tied it up.  But it wasn’t to be, after losing the ball quickly the Buccaneers scored a touchdown to win the game.  They’ll be home next weekend to take on another NFC South opponent. The 5-8 Carolina Panthers come to Orchard Park for a 1:00 kickoff on December 19.

Monday marks the day that New York State will be returning to masking up inside all indoor public spaces according to a mandate announced Friday by Governor Hochul.  Grocery stores, restaurants, and other businesses are now mandated to have customers mask up starting Monday, Dec.13, unless they require proof of vaccination.  That proof can no longer be a sign on the door saying people have to mask unless fully vaxxed but instead people are expected to show proof by using the Excelsior Pass, Excelsior Pass Plus, SMART Health Cards issued outside of New York State, or a CDC Vaccination Card.  Hochul said it’s a critical step to address the surge in COVID cases and hospitalizations.  About two thirds of hospitalizations due to COVID in New York are unvaccinated people.  The mandate carries a 1000 dollar fine for the business for each person in a business found not masking and without proof of vaccination.  Several companies such as Tops Friendly Markets and Wegmans have said they will comply with the new mandate, others, such as Veneto Pizza in Rochester, say they won’t be the police to their customers.  

A 15 year old boy has been arrested for making threats against Medina and Lockport schools.  The threats caused schools to shut down in Lockport although Medina remained open.  He was arrested Friday.  No word yet on the investigation into threats against Batavia schools that caused the shutdown on December 3rd.

The City of Batavia is voting on replacing Rosemary Christian, who resigned her position on the City Council when she moved out of the 6th district November 15th, with Tammy Schmidt.  Schmidt is a Republican.  She is a lifelong Batavian, has been employed for the past seven years as the financial management assistant for Genesee Justice and the Child Advocacy Center.  Before that, she worked for Genesee County Mental Health and Genesee County Workforce Investment. She and her husband live on Osterhout Avenue.

The Batavia Improvement District is looking for a new Executive Director.  Beth Kemp’s last big hurrah was the Christmas Parade last Saturday and she is leaving to take a position in Marketing and Accounting with Council Rock Wealth Advisory Group.  Anyone interested in the position must be able to provide vision and leadership as well as implementing ideas and creating strategic direction for the BID.  You can submit a resume by following the email link at wbtai.com.  downtownbataviabid@gmail.com

Catholic Charities is looking for volunteers for the Friendly Phones and Home Visitation programs.  In these programs volunteers make calls or do home visits of people who are over 60 who live independently or with family.  Volunteers engage in friendly conversation, partake in hobbies, crafts, and special interests such as reading, puzzles, baking or card games.  To take part and give the gift of time to someone, call Catholic Charities at 585 343 0614 ext 3801.

The Buffalo Sabres couldn’t clinch the win against the New York Rangers as the game ended with a 2 to 1 loss Friday night.  It seemed like they were headed for overtime after a late game goal brought the score to 2 and 2 but a challenge, after the goal had been reviewed and confirmed, saw it canceled. 

There is a high wind warning in effect for Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties Saturday afternoon and evening from 1 to 10pm.  Winds from the southwest blowing at 35 to 45 miles per hour and gusts of up to 65 miles per hour are expected.  Officials warn of downed trees, power lines, and property damage which may result in power outages and travel difficulty.  

Genesee County’s COVID vaccination rate is well below the New York State average according to County Health director Paul Petit.  The County Health Department reported Thursday that only 56 percent of Genesee County residents and 52 percent of Orleans County residents have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The New York State average percentage is 69.3 percent.  Public Health Educator Goodrich-Kresse says the Finger Lakes region is making plans to address the disparity.  Officials said another reason may be the lack of broadcast internet access in rural areas.

The WBTA Annual Christmas Toy Drive is going on today from 9 to 4 at Ken Barret Chevrolet.  The toy drive benefits the Salvation Army who have seen an increase in demand along with a 50 percent decrease in funding.  To date, The Salvation Army of Batavia has nearly 200 families registered with more than 400 children needing toys this Christmas.  You can simply drive up and pop the trunk and a firefighter will take the toys.  If you cannot participate today, toys can be dropped off at The Salvation Army offices located at 529 East Main Street in Batavia Monday thru Friday between 9:00am and 3:00pm.

New York Attorney General Letitia James is pulling out of the governor race.  She has announced she’ll instead run for re-election as AG.  Recent polling showed James trailing incumbent Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul.  Siena College’s findings put Hochul at 36-percent compared to 18-percent for James.2 for one deal on arrests.  When police went to serve a warrant on East Ave in Batavia Thursday they got more than they expected.  Police executed an arrest warrant for one person and found that there was a second wanted person in the same house.  Upon calling for backup to handle the second person they discovered a third person with a warrant out may be in the residence.  The first 2 were taken into custody but the third was not there.

Genesee County District Attorney Lawrence Friedman retired Thursday after 40 years of service.  He was honored with a walk lined with applauding county officials, attorneys and police from the County courthouse as he left the building officially for the last time.

A High Wind Watch has been posted for this Saturday.
The National Weather Service says we can expect Southwest winds of 35 to 45 miles per hour with gusts to 65. The Watch is in effect for Saturday afternoon through Saturday evening.
The Watch area includes Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming Counties.
The Weather Service says the winds could be stro9ng enough to bring down numerous trees and power lines and some property damage is possible.

A woman’s body has been recovered from a car that was submerged in the Niagara River near the edge of Niagara Falls. The car was just 50 yards from the falls on Wednesday when a rescuer dangling from a Coast Guard helicopter was able to open the car door and pull the woman out. When the woman was brought to shore, rescuers determined she was already dead. It’s not clear if the woman, reported to be in her 60s, drove into the river on purpose or by accident, or exactly how she died.

Beginning today, several hospitals in the region are going to have to limit their number of non-essential surgeries.
The state Department of Health says restrictions will be in place at Highland Hospital, Rochester General Hospital, Strong Memorial Hospital, and  Unity Hospital of Rochester.
Not on the list, at least not yet, is United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia.
UMMC is part of Rochester Regional Health but is not impacted by the limits of elective surgeries.
Hospitals have been filling up in recent weeks with patients needing treatment for COVID-19, which has limited the number of available beds.

The Buffalo Bills are mourning the death of former player Mark Pike. The team says Pike passed away at the age of 57 following a battle with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Pike was drafted by the Bills and played his entire career with the franchise, which included appearances in four consecutive Super Bowls. Pike still holds the Bills record for special teams tackles with 255, which is second all-time in NFL history. He is survived by his wife and children.

One person that was responsible for online threats against a Western New York school has been caught and charged in Lockport.  Lockport schools have been shut down all week for the same reason Batavia City Schools shut down on Friday and are planning to reopen on December the 13th.  In Batavia the investigation into the threats posted online is still ongoing.  Several other school districts faced the same types of threats with some closing and some remaining open.  It is unknown at this time if they were related to each other.  

To combat the shortage of goods and services because of the supply chain being disrupted a new state law has been enacted.  This law allows 18-20 year olds to get a CDL and start driving Class A big rigs.  Before only 21 and up could drive the tractor trailers.  The American Trucking Association says that they need 80,000 more drivers to be able to adequately move merchandise and other materials around the country.  This is not an immediate fix.  It will take time before 18 to 20-year-olds can start signing up for CDL-A classes.  With the law now passed, the state department of transportation must now come up with the official rules and regulations to certify younger drivers.

Monroe County has purchased 750000 at home rapid COVID tests and rural counties are feeling left out.  Genesee county Manager Matt Landers says “We are going to continue to beat the drum” of asking New York State for support in getting COVID supplies and aid.  Senator Schumer has called for more at home rapid tests for New York State but Landers says that Albany keeps telling them they are too hard to come by.

A slightly different call for help from the community.  3 year old Alana Marie has lost her stuffed giraffe on Liberty street and would very much like it back.  The giraffe is grey and has been her constant companion since birth.  It was lost between 2:45 and 3:15 tuesday.  If found please call 585 356 5818 to reunite this little girl and her friend.

Sen Charles Schumer 

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York is criticizing Republican efforts to end President Biden’s vaccination mandate on large businesses.

Schumer says the anti-vax movement is fueled by online conspiracy theories that he called “crazy.”

Sentencing for former Batavia Funeral Director Michael Tomaszewski has been delayed again. Tomaszewski has COVID-19.
His sentencing has been put off until an undetermined date.
Tomaszewski pled guilty last April to charges of grand larceny, scheming to defraud, filing false instruments and untimely burials.
Prosecutors say Tomaszewski bilked local families out of nearly a half-million dollars in pre-paid funerals.

Elective and same day surgeries at Batavia’s United Memorial Medical Center will continue, for now.
UMMC’s parent group, Rochester Regional Health, has put off elective surgeries for at least two weeks at Rochester General and Unity Hospital.
The reason: COVID and saving staff to treat those patients infected with the virus.

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced two-million dollars more in state funding will be used to help Afghan refugees resettle in New Yotrk. Governor Hochul says the money will be distributed to nonprofit groups who are going to help the refugees that are coming to New York during the next few months, including approximately 500 who are scheduled to arrive in Western New York. The nonprofit groups can use the funds to help the refugees learn English and also to give them access to job.

Michael Tomaszewski

Former Batavia Funeral Director Michael Tomaszewski has COVID.
Showing proof of his infection, Tomaszewski’s sentencing has been delayed again.
His sentencing has been put off until an undetermined date.
Tomaszewski pled guilty to grand larceny, scheming to defraud, filing false instruments and untimely burials.
Prosecutors say Tomaszewski bilked local families out of nearly a half-million dollars in pre-paid funerals.

Elective and same day surgeries at Batavia’s United Memorial Medical Center will continue, for now.
UMMC’s parent group, Rochester Regional Health, has put off elective surgeries for at least two weeks at Rochester General and Unity Hospital.
The reason: COVID and saving staff to treat those patients infected with the virus.

Over the past week, two more people have died from Coronavirus in Genesee County, one was under the age of 65.
Since the start of the pandemic the county’s death toll stands at 302.
As of last week, just 56 percent of Genesee County residents are fully vaccinated.

The losing streak of the Buffalo Sabres has now reached four games following a shutout loss on home ice.
The Anaheim Ducks beat Buffalo 2-0 at KeyBank Center last night.
Up next for the Sabres is a home game on Friday night against the New York Rangers.

Michael Tomaszewski, the funeral director who was charged with over a hundred crimes and plead guilty to grand larceny, scheme to defraud, offering a false instrument for filing and untimely burial, has had his sentencing delayed again.  This time it is because he has tested positive for COVID.  County Court Judge Charles Zambito ordered Tomaszewski to the Genesee County Jail where he was tested again.  That test, according to district Attorney Friedman, was also positive.  Tomaszewski will have to quarantine.

The Genesee Orleans county health department has released that there were 236 new COVID cases over the last week in Genesee county.  250 people have recovered and been released from isolation.  35 people are hospitalized with COVID and 2 people passed away.  In Genesee county there have been 302 deaths attributed to COVID since March of 2020.  As for vaccination, 30,551 Genesee County residents are fully vaccinated, or just shy of 56 percent of the population.

Erie County is 9th in the country in COVID cases over the past month.  There were 17 thousand 484 cases over the last 28 days.  Higher than Erie were Maricopa Arizona, Cook Illinois, LA California, Wayne Michigan, Oakland Michigan, Hennepin Minnesota, Macomb Michigan and Cuyahoga Ohio.  Maricopa county had 60 thousand cases.  

As part of the COVID response strategy and the new mandate that went into effect December 3rd Rochester Regional Health is postponing elective inpatient, 23 hour and same day hospital surgeries at Rochester General and Unity hospital starting Thursday.  UMMC is not effected.  Office based procedures and ambulatory surgery centers are not impacted.

After the disappointment of losing the business of Samsung at the STAMP facility in Alabama Senator Schumer is calling on Israel based company Tower Semiconductor to build in New York.  Schumer says that Tower is considering the location, or somewhere in New York for their 5 billion dollar semiconductor fabrication plant.  If they moved in the plant would bring over a thousand jobs to the area.  Samsung decided to build in Texas after many months of looking at several sites including STAMP.

The Buffalo Sabres couldn’t top the Ducks on Tuesday night and were shut out 2 to 0.  One goal was a trick shot where Trevor Zergas of the Anaheim team flipped the puck over the goal and then Sunny Milano tipped it in.  Zergas said after the game, “I can’t believe it worked.”  Buffalo has lost 5 in a row and stays home to face the New York Rangers Friday night at 7pm.

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $539-million in federal funding for a new state-based Homeowner Assistance Fund.
This is the first such program in the United States and that it’s intended to help those struggling amid the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Officials say they expect to receive more claims than what the fund can pay-out, so applications will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
For more information follow this link.

Just in case you haven’t heard: the Buffalo Bills have come up short in their effort to regain first place in the AFC East after a tough loss at home. Quarterback Josh Allen completed 15-of-30 passes for 145 yards and a touchdown but Buffalo fell to the New England Patriots 14-to-10 at Highmark Stadium last night.
Up next for the Bills is a road contest against the defending Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers who are led by former Patriots QB Tom Brady. Kickoff for that game is set for 4:25 Sunday afternoon.

A revolver once owned by Batavia native Emory Upton has sold at auction for $345,000.
The Colt Single Action Army revolver sold last Friday at the Rock Island Auction company in Illinois.
It was the same gun Upton used to take his own life in 1881.
Holland Land Office President Don Burkel said the local museum would have loved to add the Upton revolver to its collection but at $345,000 it was a bit out of its price range.

Batavia’s leaf collection has ended for the year.
If you still have leaves you want to get rid of you will have to take them to the city’s Yard Waste Station on Law Street by the end of this week.
The Yard Waste Station will close for the season on Saturday.

Governor Hochul announced yesterday that there is 539 million dollars set aside to help homeowners pay their mortgages and avoid delinquency, default, foreclosure, and displacement in a Homeowners Assistance Fund.  Applications for aid will be accepted beginning January 3rd.  Hochul says they will prioritize “vulnerable” areas and those who are already in litigation.  

Flags in New York are at half staff today to remember the day that will live forever in infamy, the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese military that entered the US into World War 2.  2400 civilians and service members lost their lives on that day 80 years ago.  

Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation Monday to protect seniors from fraudulent use of personal information.  The legislation incorporates identity theft into the definition of elder abuse to provide support services and programs for older people.  It allows the Office of the Aging and law enforcement to recognize identity theft as one of the many forms of elder abuse and take appropriate action to help seniors.  Hochul said that identity theft affects older New Yorkers worse than others.

There is little change on the price of Gas this week. Triple A reports today the average price of a gallon of regular in Batavia is $3.46 which is down a penny from yesterday but up from last week.  President Biden announced that his opening up the national fuel reserves had dropped the price of gas 2 cents.  Gas is up more than a dollar from when he took office.

There were a few power outages in Batavia yesterday due to the wind.  Areas of Stafford, East Bethany, Byron and GCC had their power knocked out for some time.  A wire was down on Sunset Terrace, and a tree fell across State Street near the Thruway.  All these issues have been cleared up for today.  

Buffalo bowed to the Patriots in a windy matchup yesterday.  The Bills lost to New England 14 to 10.  Winds reached 50 miles per hour during the game which may have influenced the Patriots decision to run the ball as often as they could.  Next week the Bills are headed for warmer climes.  They are the road to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tom Brady, and the NFL’s top-ranked passing offense on Sunday at 4:25 p.m.

A high wind  advisory has been posted for Genesee and Orleans Counties until 10 o’clock tonight.
The National Weather Service says we can expect winds out of the Southwest at 25 to 35 miles per hour with gusts up to 55.
Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
National Grid says it is increasing staffing and increasing evening and overnight works shifts to handle any potential power outages.

Batavia drivers will see little price change at the pump.
Triple A reports today the average price of a gallon of regular locally is $3.46 down a penny from yesterday but up a week ago from last week.
One year ago, the average price was $2.22 a gallon.

The Buffalo Bills will be taking on a longtime rival tonight as they look to move back into first place in the AFC East. Quarterback Josh Allen will lead the Bills as they battle rookie quarterback Mac Jones and the New England Patriots at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park for Monday Night Football. This is the first of two times the Bills will square off against the Patriots over the next few weeks. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m.

With the spread of COVID-19 continuing across New York State, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is calling for at-home tests for the virus to be available free of charge. Schumer says with the rising threat of the omicron variant, it’s important that people be able to test themselves for the virus right from home, which would prevent them from infecting others if they receive a positive result. Schumer wants the tests to be available at all community health centers and says funds to pay for them have already been appropriated as part of the American Rescue Plan. The omicron variant has been detected in New York and countries around the world.

With the high winds last night and through today National Grid says it is upping its workforce hours by increasing evening and overnight shifts.  According to National Grid, staffing has been increased to include more than 2,300 line, service, tree, damage assessment and public safety workers statewide.  The power company says it is staging trucks and workers in areas it anticipated will have need, calling in outside resources, and reaching out to customers and elected officials to keep the public updated on safety information and preparedness.  High winds are expected to continue through 10pm tonight with winds blowing southwest at 30 to 40 miles per hour and gusts of up to 50 mile per hour.

75 towns across New York state have decided to opt out of allowing marijuana dispensaries and use sites in their areas.  Opting out means a dispensary or on-site smoking location would be prohibited from setting up shop in that town. A person could still legally consume marijuana in a municipality even if it opted out.  In Genesee county, Oakfield, Alabama and Bethany have said no while Leroy, Batavia and Alexander have held public hearings on the subject but not made a decision yet.  Most Orleans county towns and villages have said no with a couple being undecided.  The only exceptions are Albion village and Medina which voted yes.  In Wyoming County only Arcade has said yes while most towns and villages are undecided.  If a municipality does nothing by the end of the year, it will be automatically opted into the state’s recreational marijuana program.

Senator Charles Schumer is calling for a rapid surge of at home testing kits for COVID 19 in order to control the Omicron Variant’s spread in New York.  Schumer joined Governor Hochul in saying that they are concerned as now there are 8 confirmed cases of the new variant in the state.  The federal government has restricted travel from 8 African countries and changed their rule making it so flyers coming into the US have to have a negative covid test within 24 hours of boarding.  Schumer says he wants all tests to be free and have no fine print.  The omicron variant has been circulating in South Africa for several months, it is now in 17 States and at least 40 countries, there have not been any cases requiring hospitalization as of yet and researchers are suggesting that it may be more contagious than COVID 19’s other variants but have much milder symptoms.

The Buffalo Sabres lost to the Carolina Hurricanes 6 to 2 at PNC Arena on Saturday night.  Their season record now stands at 8 and 13 and 3.  Buffalo’s losing streak is up to four games. The Sabres return home to KeyBank Center on Tuesday to face the Anaheim Ducks at 7:30pm.

The Batavia Police department and FBI have been investigating the social media threats of violence towards the city schools that closed all public schools in Batavia on Friday.  The police say that they have found no credible threat to the district.  Batavia was not alone in shutting down due to threats, Olean and Allegany Limestone school districts shut down for the same reason, Medina had a threat but remained open.  They are still trying to find where the post originated.  BCSD has been cleared to resume all activities beginning Saturday, December 4, and schools will open for all students on Monday, December 6.  As a precautionary measure, there will be an increased police presence in and around Batavia city school district buildings for all activities this weekend and next week.  The Batavia Police Department continues to work in collaboration with the FBI and Secret Service to monitor all social media threats to ensure the continued safety of the district’s students and staff.  Police are asking anyone with information to please call the police department or the tip line.

There is another vaccine raffle in New York and this time it’s for Ski Lift Tickets.  The “Ski for Free” sweepstakes is for children aged 5-11, and anyone who gets a booster shot. Over a six week period, eligible New Yorkers will be able to enter the random drawing for free tickets to participating mountains.  In Western NY, Holiday Valley, Bristol Mountain, Woods Valley, and Greek Peak will be participating.  For more information including how to enter, follow the link at wbtai.com. 

https://www.governor.ny.gov/programs/ski-free-vaccine-incentive

There is a high wind watch for Genesee and Orleans counties form 8am to 8pm on Monday.  Temperatures will continue to rise overnight from Sunday into Monday morning briefly reaching the 50s with rain showers. Strong winds will be the main concern as gusts could hit 60mph from Sunday night into Monday evening with temperatures quickly falling into the 30s.  Remember to secure anything that might be blown around and be careful if you are driving a high profile vehicle.

Press Release from the sheriff’s office: Due to the increase in Covid cases within the county, Sheriff William A. Sheron, Jr. is requiring all business (including animal adoptions and turn ins) at the Genesee County Animal Shelter be conducted by appointment only.  This goes into effect beginning Monday, December 6.  This is a precautionary measure to prevent the risk of exposure to coronavirus to community members, Animal Shelter employees, and volunteers.

City Police and the Batavia City School District continue to look for the source of what they described as threats against city schools posted on social media.
Those threats caused school officials to cancel school for today along with all after school activities. The Richmond Library is also closed.
Police are asking students or families who have any information about the threats to call Batavia Police or the confidential tip line.

34-year-old John Hobbs of Clinton Street Road: he’s charged with burglary and violating an order of protection.
Authorities say Hobbs entered the home of a person he was ordered to stay from. Hobbs fled the home before lawmen arrived. K-9 Deputy Rayzor found Hobbs hiding in the woods just south of the home.

27-year-old Alexander Scheg of Byron collared by deputies for bail jumping. Now he’s being held on $4,000 bail.

Governor Kathy Hochul says she’s not planning to issue any statewide mandates to deal with the growing number of coronavirus cases across New York. Governor Hochul says that she’s continuing to urge people to wear a mask and get vaccinated in order to keep the illness from spreading. However, Hochul said she isn’t opposed to putting mandates in place if infections keep increasing, but believes doing so now would be an overreaction.

The winless streak of the Buffalo Sabres has now hit three games following a disappointing loss on the road. After going ahead four-to-one in the second period, Buffalo gave up six unanswered goals and lost to the Florida Panthers seven-to-four. Up next for the Sabres is a road contest against the Carolina Hurricanes tomorrow night.

The jackpots for two popular lottery games keep rising, meaning there will be a total of $390-million up for grabs the next couple of days. The jackpot for tonight’s Mega Millions drawing is currently at $112-million. Tomorrow’s Powerball jackpot is even larger and that prize currently sits at $278-million.

The Batavia City Schools are closed today after social media posts began circulating that threatened violence against specific schools in the city.  The Batavia Police are investigating the threats.  All after school activities are also canceled.  A teenage shooter in Michigan killed several people at their school after posting threats to social media earlier this week.  It is unknown whether these threats are related in any way.  If any student or family has any information regarding the threats, we ask that you please contact the Batavia Police Department at (585) 345-6350 or the confidential tip line at (585) 345-6370.

A DEC stop turned into a chase and subsequent drug bust.  On Monday night at around 10pm a DEC officer attempted to stop a car near Sanders Rd in the Town of Stafford for a suspected conservation violation.  The car sped off and Genesee County Sheriffs joined the pursuit and also deployed a spike strip on rt 33 and 237.  The chase came to an end in the town of Clarendon as the driver failed to make a turn and crashed into a utility pole and and street sign on Glidden Rd.  After a brief foot chase and deployment of K-9 units Alexander Sheg, Zachary Hursh and Jason Schmeer were taken into custody.  The Honda Civic they were in was found to be reported stolen, cocaine was found along with drug paraphernalia.  All three are being held in Genesee County Jail.

Governor Hochul announced that there are so far 5 cases of the COVID Omicron variant in New York state.  All were either no symptoms or mild symptoms.  All 5 were downstate.  Hochul used the announcement to say people should get vaccinated and take the booster shots.  Thus far there has not been a case of Omicron reported that required hospitalization.  The most common symptoms were muscle soreness and or fatigue that lasted for 1 to 2 days.  Several researchers working with the variant say it may be as transmissible or more than the Delta variant.

The Panthers mauled the Sabres for a loss of 7 to 4 last night.  The Sabres had an early lead being ahead 3 to 0 at the end of the first period.  Then former Sabre Sam Reinhart started off the rally that led to 6 unanswered points for the Florida team.  The Sabres’ southern road trip continues on Saturday when they take on the Carolina Hurricanes.

News Release: Batavia City School District

Over the last few hours, it’s been brought to the attention of the Batavia City School District (BCSD) administration that reports of threats of violence at buildings in the district are circulating on social media.

BCSD is currently working closely with the Batavia Police Department, and out of an abundance of caution, BCSD has decided to close all buildings in the district tomorrow, Friday, December 3, while the Batavia Police Department continues its investigation into whether these threats are credible.

All after-school activities are also canceled for Friday, December 3.

BCSD will continue to update students, families, and staff as relevant information on the investigation becomes available. The safety of BCSD students and staff is the top priority, and the district is taking these allegations against our community very seriously.

If any student or family has any information regarding the threats, we ask that you please contact the Batavia Police Department at (585) 345-6350 or the confidential tip line at (585) 345-6370.

Genesee County Manager Matt Landers says he needs to have financing for a new county jail in place by early next month.
The county is looking to finance 70-million dollars for the new jail house and take 30 years to pay for it. Landers say he needs the legislature to approve the bond measure by January 6th.
The annual payments on the jail would amount to between $3-million and $3.5-million a year.

An increase in COVID-19 cases has led to another Wyoming County to declare a state of emergency. The chairwoman of the Wyoming County Board of Supervisors says the ongoing health crisis is putting a strain on the health system. The purpose of the state of emergency is
to make sure hospitals, doctor’s offices and school districts have the resources they need to navigate the pandemic. The emergency declaration will be in place for at least 30 days but it could be extended for additional periods of up to 30 days.

A new study from the New York State Department of Health is taking a close look at the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines. The data, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, shows that the vaccines are effective in keeping people who test positive for the coronavirus out of the hospital. The study also said that any decline in vaccine effectiveness against infections could be connected to the Delta variant and people not taking preventative measures to keep themselves safe such as wearing a mask.

New documents posted by the state comptroller’s office show the investigations into ex-Governor Andrew Cuomo could cost taxpayers over 20-million-dollars. Those records indicate over eight-million-dollars has already been spent, with additional money possibly going towards legal services for the Executive Chamber.

The Buffalo Sabres will have a tough task in front of them tonight as they look to snap their two-game winless streak against one of the best teams in the NHL. The Sabres are taking on the Florida Panthers who are currently in second place in the Atlantic Division.