Weekend News Brief
Written by Dan Fischer on December 20, 2024
With Christmas a few days away, packages will be arriving at homes, and there are ways for folks to keep their deliveries safe. The state Department of Consumer Protection suggests signing up for package tracking to find out when they are arriving and get them quickly once they’re delivered. Also, try and schedule any deliveries for a time when someone is home to avoid potential theft. Finally, use a security or doorbell camera so if a package is taken, footage of the crime can be shared with police.
The state Department of Health says the spread of the flu virus is prevalent across New York. That means health care workers who aren’t vaccinated against the illness yet must wear masks in certain health care settings. The most recent data shows there have been over 23-thousand positive flu cases in the Empire State since the start of this season. It’s recommended everyone six months and older get their flu shot immediately.
Drivers are getting a bit of a break at the gas pump as they set out on their holiday road trips. Triple A reports that the nationwide average price for a gallon of regular grade fuel is $3.05. In New York State, the average price has been holding steady for the last month at $3.14 per gallon. In Batavia, the average price calculates out to $3.24; that’s down 3 cents from a month ago and down 23 cents from a year ago today. While the national average price never dipped below three dollars in 2024, Triple A says prices have come down in many parts of the country, which is good news for holiday travelers.
The Great Batavia Train Sale is scheduled for Sunday, January 12th from 9:30 am until 3:30pm at Genesee Community College Richard C. Call Arena. The cost is $6 for adults, $3 for if you’re under 18 and admission is free for kids under the age of 13. Over 100 vendors will be offering all scales of model trains and historic railroad items. Modeling demonstrations, and a limited number of portable layouts, will be part of the fun. Parking is free; there will be a snack bar and plenty of seating. For more information, please visit: gsme.org
The Buffalo Bills are going to have the support of their home crowd as they take on an AFC East rival. Quarterback Josh Allen and the Bills will take on the New England Patriots at Highmark Stadium. Buffalo is coming off a 48 to 42 win over the Detroit Lions last week that improved the team’s record this season to 11 wins and just three losses. Kickoff for Sunday’s contest was originally supposed to be 1:00 but has been shifted to 4:25.
And a look-alike contest for the Buffalo Bill’s quarterback is going down this weekend. Saturday night, the Lucky Wing at Buffalo Riverworks at 359 Ganson Street will be hosting a Josh Allen look-alike contest. The winner will receive a Lucky Wing necklace, a $100 Lucky Wing shopping credit, a $100 Riverworks gift card, and four tickets to January Bill’s Bingo at Riverworks. The free event is from 6 to 10 this evening.
