Midday News Brief
Written by Dan Fischer on December 27, 2021
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!