Morning News Brief
Written by Michael Baldwin on January 22, 2021
U.S. Army Aviation investigators are scheduled to arrive in Monroe County today to investigate a helicopter crash that killed three National Guard servicemembers Wednesday. The U.S. Army has jurisdiction of the investigation. According to the New York Army National Guard, the medical evacuation helicopter was on a routine training mission Wednesday evening when it crashed. Monroe County Sheriff Chief Deputy Michael Fowler said the Guard-members’ remains were escorted by police and fire trucks as a tribute to their community service.
As part of New York’s ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has announced that the Open Enrollment Period for uninsured New Yorkers will be extended through March 31, 2021. New Yorkers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health, New York’s Official Health Plan Marketplace, or directly through insurers.
Thirty-eight new COVID cases have been confirmed in Genesee County. New infections were reported in 13 communities. Seventeen of the positive individuals are hospitalized. Thirty-seven new cases have been confirmed in Orleans County, where 12 people remain hospitalized. Health officials in Wyoming County, today report 23 new cases.
Registration is now available for kindergarten and prekindergarten students in the Byron-Bergen Central School District. The District plans to once again offer a half-day universal Pre-K program at the Elementary School. The program is focused on socialization, learning through play, and self-exploration. Students must turn 4 years of age by Dec. 1 to be eligible for the program.
While clinics in Erie County are being canceled because of a statewide COVID-19 vaccine shortage, Genesee County will receive its anticipated 100 doses for three scheduled clinics next week. However, state officials informed local officials not to expect an increase in available doses anytime soon.
At Western Regional Off Track Betting’s Board of Directors Meeting, Richard Bianchi was unanimously re-elected as Chairman for 2021. Bianchi represents Monroe County on the Board of Directors for OTB. Ed Morgan, the Orleans County representative on the board, was also re-elected as Vice Chairman for 2021.
