Morning News Brief
Written by Tom Tharp on December 10, 2021
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.
