Morning News Briefing

Gov. Andrew Cuomo says New York is taking actions to address rises in COVID-19 cases, and the new rules impact bars, restaurants, gyms and private gatherings. During a conference call, the governor said State Liquor Authority-licensed establishments must close at 10 p.m. Curbside food pickup can continue past 10 p.m. Gyms will also be required to close at 10 p.m. These new rules take effect Friday at 10 p.m. Cuomo said private gatherings such as parties will be capped at 10 people.

A Bethany man returns to court next month after he was charged with a violent crime. Sheriff’s deputies arrested 24-year-old Greg Solomonidis of Little Canada Road was charged with felony assault. That count stems from an incident in July at a tavern in Alexander. He allegedly struck a person in the face causing serious injury. He’s due in Town of Alexander court on December 21st.

County Coroner Jeff McIntyre has received a commendation from the Genesee County Legislature for his tireless work — more than 260 hours — along with a team of responders — to an airplane crash site in Corfu. The Oct. 2 plane crash into a swampy, wooded area near Boyce Road claimed the life of Buffalo attorney Steve Barnes and the life of his niece Elizabeth Barnes, who was a government attorney.

The Batavia Muckdogs Baseball Club will be issuing refund checks to purchasers of 2020 game tickets at the Dwyer Stadium office from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. To expedite the refund process, you’re asked to bring a government-issued identification and proof of purchase.

When it comes to commitment and dedication to battling opioid addiction in rural areas, the Genesee-Orleans-Wyoming Opioid Task Force shines brightly. That’s the viewpoint of the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health, which has awarded the local collaborative organization with a 2020 Community Star. The award is given to only one rural entity in New York State.

Catholic Charities needs volunteers for its COVID-19 phone visitation program. An adaptation of its home visitation program for seniors (age 60+) in Genesee and Orleans counties, this safe social connection is an opportunity for homebound seniors to maintain contact with the outside world they otherwise would not have due to their shrinking social circles as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Interested volunteers would call weekly, from their own homes and on their own schedules, to check in on the homebound seniors. Training and a background check are required.

Governor Andrew Cuomo has signed the Outdoor Rx Act requiring the New York State Division of Veteran’s Services to review issues relating to veterans’ ability to access state parks, lands and facilities. The Outdoor Rx Act is the first step in identifying how New York State can better address the needs of veterans adjusting back to civilian life through outdoor activity. This legislation takes effect immediately. Recent studies have shown that time outdoors can be a valuable asset to traditional therapy. Outdoor-based therapeutic programs hold promise for individuals suffering from PTSD and Substance Abuse Disorder.

While the wait continues for many New York State races to be called, new proposed legislation aims to speed up the process for future elections. According to current state law, absentee ballots cannot be counted until after Election Day. This year, more than 1.5 million of those were returned, meaning a hold-up on clear results. Now, Democratic state senators are bringing forth legislation that would allow absentee ballots to start being canvassed on Election Day, three hours before polls close.