Stories from

Press release:

Two weekends, two cities, two titles. The Athletes Edge 15/16U baseball team recently completed a successful stretch of games in which the team went 7-0-1 in winning tournaments in Oswego and in Pennsylvania's Beaver Falls. The team is comprised of 15- and 16-years-olds from several Genesee County schools. 

Legends of the Fall Tournament, Oswego

The Big Orange defeated teams from Syracuse and East Rochester on their way to the title. In game 1, Kyle Porter (Oakfield-Alabama) led the Athletes Edge 15/16U Big Orange to victory over Syracuse SportsZone Black on the hill. Porter surrendered one run on zero hits over one and two-thirds innings, striking out two in relief of Gianni Ferrera (Byron-Bergen).

Bodie Hyde (Oakfield-Alabama) threw one inning and recorded the last three outs to earn the save. Athletes Edge Scored the winning runs in the top of the seventh on hits by Jimmy Fanara (Batavia Notre Dame) and Bodie Hyde. 

In game 2, Jaden Sherwood (Batavia Notre Dame) threw a complete game 1 hit shutout against Syracuse SportsZone White, striking out six batters over five innings. Vincent Grazioplene (Batavia), Alex Johnson (Batavia), and Brayden Smith (Oakfield-Alabama) each had two RBIs in the 10-0 victory. 

The tournament semifinal, a seven-run third inning led Athletes Edge 15/16U Big Orange to a 10-1 victory over SportsZone White. Bryceton Berry (Attica) earned the victory on the pitcher's mound allowing two hits and one run over six innings, striking out six. Vincent Grazioplene hit a solo home run and Jessie Reinhart (Batavia) was 2-2 with a double and two RBIs

In the championship game, Ryan Fitzpatrick (Batavia Notre Dame) scattered three hits while striking out seven over seven innings in a close 3-1 victory over Diamond Pro. Barry and Reinhart each had RBI singles in the first inning, Fitzpatrick doubled in both at bats, scoring a run. 

Northeast Baseball Tournament, Beaver Falls, Pa.

The Athletes Edge 15/16U Big Orange came together to overcame multiple injuries to key players to come away with a hard-earned championship outside of Pittsburgh. Gianni Ferrara (Byron-Bergen) sustained an injury stealing a base in the top of the first inning of the opening game, Vincent Grazioplene would sustain an injury in the tournament’s semifinal on a collision at home plate, and Jimmy Fanara would suffer a leg injury running out a grounder in the Championship game.

The Big Orange defeated the Steel Town Maulers in the opening game 8-7. Bodie Hyde earned the victory in relief of Ryan Higgins (Le Roy). AE scored four runs in the final two innings to earn the comeback victory. Ryan Fitzpatrick had a two RBI double, Vincent Grazioplene was 2-3 with an RBI and a run scored, and Jessie Reinhart was 1-2 with two runs scored. 

AE would move on to face the Steel Town Dawgs in the second game of pool play. Both teams were evenly matched in a game that would end in a 1-1 tie after nine innings as the game was called due to darkness.

Kyle Porter pitched seven and two-thirds innings, only surrendering four hits and one run. Bodie Hyde pitched the final inning and a third, all under “shootout” rules as teams in the eighth and ninth innings began with a runner on second base. 

The two teams would face each other again the next day in the tournament semifinal and once again the teams would find each other tied at one in the final inning. Vincent Grazioplene drew a walk to open the inning and Bryceton Berry would be hit by the next pitch advancing pinch-runner Sean Alexander (Oakfield-Alabama) to second.

Ryan Fitzpatrick would lay down a bunt that loaded the bases. Kyle Porter followed with a sacrifice fly to deep left field that allowed Alexander to tag up at third and score what would become the winning run.

Bryceton Berry started, allowing five hits and zero runs over four and two-thirds innings, striking out six; Bodie Hyde would again earn the victory in relief as he allowed two hits and one run over two and a third innings, striking out three and walking one. 

The championship game starting assignment would once again go to Fitzpatrick, who would pitch five innings, allowing two runs on two hits, striking out two and walking one for a 10-2 win. Jay Antinore was two for three with two RBIs, Jessie Reinhart was two for four with a double, two RBIs and two runs scored, and Bryceton Berry was one for three with a triple. 

Athletes Edge continues their fall season this Saturday with a doubleheader at 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. at Williams Park in Batavia.

New Cases – As of 2 p.m. 

• Genesee County received one new positive case of COVID-19.
  • The new positive case resides in Elba.
  • The positive individual is in their 50s.
  • The individual was not on mandatory quarantine prior to testing positive.
  • One of the previous positive individuals has recovered and has been released from isolation. 
  • One of the positive individuals is hospitalized.
  • Currently, there are two active positive students at the Elba Central School District.
• Orleans County received two new positive cases of COVID-19.
  • The new positive cases reside in Murray.
  • One of the individuals is in their 20s and one individual is in their 30s. 
  • One individual was not on mandatory quarantine prior to testing positive.
  • Two of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been released from isolation.
  • Seventeen new individuals are on precautionary quarantine due to travel from restricted states.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) has cosponsored four pieces of legislation to help drive economic recovery – the Paycheck Protection Small Business Forgiveness Act, a bill extending coronavirus aid for airlines, the Small Business Expense Protection Act of 2020, and the Coronavirus Economic Relief for Transportation Services (CERTS) Act.

“As we work through the unprecedented challenges facing our nation, my focus is ensuring we have a strong and robust economic recovery," Jacobs said. "We must get Americans back to work safely, support our major industries, and provide vital resources to small businesses so we can protect American jobs and give companies the ability to create new ones.” 

The four pieces of legislation Jacobs cosponsored are:

• H.R. 7777 – Paycheck Protection Small Business Forgiveness Act would forgive any Paycheck Protection Program loan under $150,000. 
• H.R. 8345 – to provide support for air carrier workers, would extend the Payroll Support Program (PSP) for airlines for an additional six months through March 2021.
• H.R. 6821 – Small Business Expense Protection Act of 2020 would allow businesses to deduct expenses covered with forgivable Paycheck Protection Program loans from their federal taxes.
• H.R. 7642 – Coronavirus Economic Relief for Transportation Services (CERTS) Act would provide assistance to bus and motor coach operators that have been significantly impacted by COVID-19. In addition to supporting employees, these funds could be used to support operation and maintenance of existing equipment. 

“Supporting the American workforce and reducing the burdens placed on our small businesses are critical to bolstering our nation’s economic recovery," Jacobs said. "As I continue fighting for policies that put American workers and small businesses first, I am also strongly urging the Speaker, the Senate, and the White House to reach a bipartisan deal to provide comprehensive COVID-19 relief for our families, small businesses, and farmers.”

Press release:

As of late last week, New York is thrilled to launch COVID Alert NY – the official Exposure Notification App created by the New York State Department of Health in partnership with Google and Apple. Now you can use your phone in the fight against COVID-19 and get exposure alerts, without compromising your privacy or personal information.

WHAT IS COVID ALERT NY?

COVID Alert NY is New York State's official Exposure Notification App. This is a free smartphone app for anyone 18+ that lives and/or works in New York available for download in the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The COVID Alert NY app notifies users if they have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Upon receiving an exposure notification, the app will encourage users to contact their physician or the State Health Department hotline (1-833-227-5045) to get more information about quarantining and testing.

Anyone who downloads the app does not have to worry about being tracked, identified or having their personal information shared. The app is completely anonymous and does not track your location or movement. No personal data is collected. COVID Alert NY uses Bluetooth proximity-enabled exposure notification technology provided by Apple and Google, which is safe and secure.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

The more New Yorkers using the COVID Alert NY app, the more effective it will be as a tool to fight against COVID-19. We need your help to rally your community to download and use the app.

The COVID Alert NY app puts the power in the hands of New Yorkers to protect their neighbors, friends, family and community at large. Together, we can slow the spread of COVID-19.

WHAT RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE?

The New York State webpage on COVID Alert NY is found at: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-alert-ny

You can find a Frequently Asked Questions page here.

And in Spanish here.

To learn more about COVID Alert NY, visit:   ny.gov/covidalerts

Press release:

Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) is announcing he is now accepting nominations for his Congressional Veteran of the Month program.

To nominate a veteran who is a current resident of the 27th Congressional District to be recognized, constituents can visit https://jacobs.house.gov/veteran-month-nominations to download the nomination form.

Once completed, nomination forms can be submitted to Rep. Jacobs’ office three different ways:

Email the form to:   NY27Veteran@mail.house.gov
Fax to (716) 631-7610
Or mail to the Clarence District office at 8203 Main St., Suite 2, Williamsville, NY 14221

“As a State Senator, my Veteran of the Month program was one of the most incredible and truly humbling programs I had the honor of conducting," Jacobs said.

"I am eager to launch this program from my Congressional Office and honor the truly incredible veterans of NY27 for their selfless service to our country and their communities."

Press release:

As of 2 p.m. 

• Genesee County received nine new positive cases of COVID-19.
  • The new positive cases reside in Alabama, Elba, Le Roy and Oakfield.
  • Three of the individuals are between 0-20, two individuals are in their 20s, one individual is in their 40s, and three individuals are in their 50s.
  • Seven individuals were not on mandatory quarantine prior to testing positive.
  • Four of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been released from isolation.
  • Eight new individuals are on precautionary quarantine due to travel from restricted states. 
  • One of the positive individuals is hospitalized.
  • One of the new positive cases is a student at Elba High School. This case was identified in the press release Friday evening. If you were not notified you are not considered a close contact.

• Orleans County received zero new positive cases of COVID-19.
  • Five of the previous positive individuals have recovered and have been released from isolation.
  • Eleven new individuals are on precautionary quarantine due to travel from restricted states.

Press release:

The City of Batavia Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years — to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!”

The campaign works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.

According to NFPA, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries in the United States. Almost half (44 percent) of reported home fires started in the kitchen. Two-thirds (66 percent) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.

“We know cooking fires can be prevented,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice-president of outreach and advocacy. “Staying in the kitchen, using a timer, and avoiding distractions such as electronics or TV are steps everyone can take to keep families safe in their homes.”

The City of Batavia Fire Department encourages all residents to embrace the 2020 Fire Prevention Week theme.

“The most important step you should take before making a meal is to “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” said Stefano Napolitano, the city's fire chief. “A cooking fire can grow quickly. I have seen many homes damaged and people injured by fires that could easily have been prevented.”

The City of Batavia Fire Department wants to share safety tips to keep you from having a cooking fire.

Always keep an oven mitt and pan lid nearby when you’re cooking. If a small grease fire starts, slidethe lid over the pan to smother the flame. Turn off the burner, and leave the pan covered until it is completely cool.

• Never leave cooking food unattended. Stay in the kitchen while you are frying, grilling or broiling.
• If you have to leave, even for a short time, turn off the stove. If you are simmering, baking, roasting, or boiling food, check it regularly, remain in the home whilefood is cooking, and use a timer to remind you that you’re cooking.
• You have to be alert when cooking. You won’t be alert if you are sleepy, have taken medicine or drugs, or consumed alcohol that makes you drowsy.
• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around the stove and areas where hot food or drink isprepared or carried.
• The City of Batavia Fire Department is hosting a series of events in support of this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!”, including virtual events at schools via and socially distant visits.
• For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and cooking fire prevention, visit: www.fpw.org

Press release from AAA:

Today’s national average price for a gallon of gasoline is $2.19, the same as one week ago. One year ago, the price was $2.66. The New York State average is $2.26 – no change since last week. A year ago, the NYS average was $2.72.

AAA Western and Central New York (AAA WCNY) reports the following averages:

• Batavia -- $2.21 (no change since last week)
• Buffalo -- $2.23 (no change since last week)
• Ithaca -- $2.19 (down 1 cent since last week)
• Rochester -- $2.24 (down 1 cent since last week)
• Rome -- $2.31 (down 1 cent since last week)
• Syracuse -- $2.19 (no change since last week)
• Watertown -- $2.30 (down 2 cents since last week)

The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline remains at $2.19, which is the same price as a week ago, 3 cents less than a month ago, but still significantly cheaper than last year (-47 cents).

In the latest report from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gas demand saw a slight uptick while domestic stocks also increased. Gas prices are expected to remain reasonable for the fall foliage travel season. Once the holiday season arrives, winter blend fuel will debut again, which is typically cheaper to produce, so gas prices are not expected to dramatically increase in the near future.

From GasBuddy:

"It's been a fairly quiet week for gas prices yet again, but with oil tanking last week, there's a possibility motorists may see a renewed downward direction in average prices in the days or weeks ahead," said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy. "However, according to Pay with GasBuddy data, gasoline demand inexplicably rose last week to the highest level since August, breaking with conventional wisdom that fall demand is typically weak.

"While we have no direct reasoning for the rebound, five of seven days last week saw much above the prior week's gasoline demand, in fact, Friday saw the highest gasoline demand since Labor Day. If demand continues to somehow defy such conventional trends, we may see an end to the possibility of future declines."

Press release:

Congressmembers Brian Higgins (NY-26) and Chris Jacobs (NY-27) are calling on the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to send investigators to the scene of fatal airplane crash in Genesee County.  The Western New York leaders made the request in a letter to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator and NTSB Chairman. 

Higgins and Jacobs write in part, “the agency must develop and execute an appropriate plan to adequately and safely examine the crash site as soon as possible. Neglecting to do so leaves crucial information about what caused this tragic crash unknown.”

A small aircraft departing Manchester, New Hampshire, crashed on Friday, Oct. 2 in the vicinity of Corfu, New York, never reaching its Buffalo, New York destination. The crash tragically killed both on board; Steve Barnes ,the pilot and a Western New York attorney, as well as his passenger and niece Elizabeth Barnes, an attorney with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 

According to the NTSB’s website: “At the core of NTSB investigations is the ‘Go Team.’ The purpose of the Safety Board ‘Go Team’ is simple and effective: Begin the investigation of a major accident at the accident scene, as quickly as possible, assembling the broad spectrum of technical expertise that is needed to solve complex transportation safety problems.”

The NTSB has indicated they don’t plan to send a “Go Team” of investigators to the Western New York crash site due to COVID-19, and will instead only provide a remote review of the accident. 

Unfortunately, Western New York has been hit hard by several fatal aviation accidents including most recently the crash of a helicopter flown by Buffalo developer Mark Croce in January 2020 and the crash of Flight 3407 in February 2009 killing all on board and one on the ground. NTSB investigators were sent to the scene of both accidents. The NTSB Flight 3407 report led to sweeping changes to improve airline safety. 

Higgins and Jacobs stressed the value of on-site investigators writing, “No community knows the importance of an NTSB investigation more than Western New York. These investigations prevent future losses of life, result in safer skies, and bring closure to those who have lost loved ones. We strongly urge the NTSB to proceed expeditiously with a full investigation including the deployment of on-site investigators.”

Previously:

• Small airplane out of Buffalo crashes in swampy area off Boyce Road in Corfu
• Investigation continues into cause of plane crash in Corfu
• Coroner's Office begins process of recovering remains from crash site

Press release:

Press release:

“The Genesee County Health Department has received an additional positive COVID-19 test from an Elba High School student,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health director for Genesee and Orleans counties. “The individual has been placed under mandatory isolation where they will remain until they are fully recovered.”

The Genesee County Department of Health is conducting contact tracing that is in process. Students and/or staff will be notified and placed under quarantine if they were identified as a close contact.

"As mentioned earlier in the week, individuals identified by the health department as being close contacts will be expected to follow the New York State Department of Health quarantine guidelines," Pettit said.

“Students and staff who are symptomatic will be tested for COVID-19 in collaboration with the Genesee County Health Department,” said Ned Dale, superintendent of Elba Central School District. “The school will be conducting 100-percent remote learning through Monday, Oct. 12. In-person learning through the hybrid model is scheduled to resume on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2020.”

Symptoms of COVID-19 include but are not limited to: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea.

For information on school statistics, please visit the New York State COVID- 19 Report Card.

Press release:

Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) supports the China Task Force Report released yesterday that outlines a comprehensive plan to counter the People’s Republic of China and hold the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) accountable for their destabilizing behavior.

“I commend the China Task Force for their hard work developing a comprehensive plan to address the economic, national security, and now health threats the Chinese Communist Party poses to the American people,” Jacobs said.

“The global pandemic has especially highlighted the clear threat the CCP presents and the serious need to secure our supply chains – especially those used in the production of critical medicines and medical supplies. We need to bring these supply chains back to our shores so we can invest in American jobs and protect American lives from malign foreign interference.”

The report developed by the China Task Force covers a wide range of issues involving the Chinese Communist Party, including: the forced labor and persecution of the Uyghur people; securing critical supply chains; providing resources to investigate and prosecute intellectual property theft; and securing production of advanced technologies such as AI, 5G, and autonomous vehicles.

“The Chinese Communist Party has a long record of human rights violations, stealing intellectual property, and manipulating critical information -- holding them accountable should and can be a bipartisan priority," Jacobs said. "I look forward to working with my colleagues to implement recommendations in this report to address the critical challenges posed by China."

To read the full CTF report, click here:

Press release:

Congressman Chris Jacobs (NY-27) is releasing the following statement after voting against H.R. 925 – HEROES 2.0.

“I have repeatedly said I want a bipartisan COVID-19 relief package," Jacobs said. "This will only happen, however, if there is a compromise between the House, Senate and the administration.

"Tonight’s legislation was not a serious effort to bring more relief to struggling families, small businesses, and farmers – it was yet another attempt to use the COVID-19 crisis for political leverage. I urge the Speaker to immediately resume negotiations with Leader McConnell and the Trump Administration so we can vote on a relief package that will actually become law."

Press release:

Rep. Chris Jacobs (NY-27) is putting out the following statement in response to the President and First Lady testing positive for COVID-19:

“My thoughts are with the First Family, and I pray for a swift and full recovery for the President and First Lady,” -- Congressman Chris Jacobs.

Press release:

The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) Board of Directors approved incentives for a $12.8 million renovation of an existing apartment complex in the City of Batavia at its Oct. 1 board meeting.

Batavia Senior Housing Preservation LLC’s project will invest approximately $21,400 per unit in hard construction costs, assuring the apartment complex at 1 State St. remains viable as a safe and affordable housing option for low-income seniors. Current residents will not be displaced during the renovation and construction.

The project has been approved for a private activity bond, sales and mortgage tax exemptions and a property tax abatement. The property tax abatement is limited to the increase in future value only. Project incentives are estimated at approximately $376,466.

Press release:

• Genesee County received three new positive cases of COVID-19.
  • The new positive cases reside in Alabama, Elba, and Le Roy.
  • The individuals are in their 20s, 30s, and 70s.
  • The individuals were not on mandatory quarantine prior to testing positive.
  • Six new individuals are on precautionary quarantine due to travel from restricted states.
  • One of the positive individuals is hospitalized.
     
• Orleans County received one new positive case of COVID-19.
• The new positive case resides in Shelby.
• The individual is in their 60s.
• The individual was not on mandatory quarantine prior to testing positive.
• Three new individuals are on precautionary quarantine due to travel from restricted states.

Press release:

Crossroads House will be having an "impromptu sale" in their garage at 11 Liberty St. Although much smaller than our annual garage sale due to restrictions on public gatherings, “the show must go on”!

Volunteers have been busy pricing a wide variety of treasures including glassware, collectibles, household items, and a few pieces of furniture. Garage access will be limited to a few people at a time, social distancing measures will be in place, and masks will be required.

The sale will be held on Friday, Oct. 9^th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Saturday, Oct. 10^th from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (No early birds, please.)

This sale is to not only help fill the funding gap left by cancelled fundraisers but also move out merchandise that would have sold at our summer sale.

We want to thank our generous community for donating items so we could have this sale. We hope to see you, at the House!

From Martha Bailey:

The Women of the Moose in Le Roy, held their pig roast and chicken BBQ event in August. The proceeds were used to buy new outerwear for K-6 students at Le Roy's Wolcott Street School. The items were delivered Wednesday.

The Women of the Moose are proud to make a difference and help our children. We would like to extend our thanks to the community for coming out and supporting our event. Due to COVID-19, it was a drive-thru event, but we made the best of it.

We would also like to recognize the Men of the Moose for their help and support as well.

The outerwear will be distributed to those in need by the school counselors and nurse. If a family is struggling and could use some help with winter wear, they should contact the school.

Photo, from left, Catherine Campbell, Martha Bailey, Wolcott Street School Assistant Principal Jamie Clark, and Shelly Nichols.

Photo courtesy of Martha Bailey.

From the Genesee County Board of Elections:

ABSENTEE VOTING, ABSENTEE DROP-BOX OPTIONS, EARLY VOTING & DEADLINES

Absentee Voting Options & Drop-Box Information
Requests for absentee ballots for the General Election can be processed over the phone at (585) 815-7804, besides mailing, emailing us at: election@co.genesee.ny.us or faxing your application to (585) 344-8562.

You have many choices as to how you wish to return your ballot after it is completed.

• You may mail your ballot -- don’t forget to sign the ballot envelope and put a stamp on the outside.
• You may hand deliver your ballot to our office at County Building 1, 15 Main St., Batavia, NY 14020.
• There will be a designated Board of Elections drop box installed on the south side of County Building 1 (Ellicott Street side), until installation is complete, you may use the secure DMV drop-box on Court Street.
• You may bring your ballot any day of Early Voting where you can drop off your ballot into a designated absentee drop-box. A poll worker will assist you. See the dates and times below.
• You can bring your absentee ballot to any polling place on Election Day where you can drop off your ballot into a designated absentee ballot drop-box. A poll worker will assist you.

Early Voting
The General Election Early Voting begins on Saturday, Oct. 24^thand will run for nine days prior to the General Election. The Early Voting location is at County Building 2, 3837 W. Main Street Road, Batavia NY 14020. The schedule for Early Voting is as follows:

• Oct. 24th   12 - 5 p.m.
• Oct. 25th   12 - 5 p.m.
• Oct. 26th   9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Oct. 27th   12 – 8 p.m.
• Oct. 28th   12 – 8 p.m.
• Oct. 29th   9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Oct. 30th   9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Oct. 31st   1 – 5 p.m.
• Nov. 1^st      12 – 5 p.m.

Registration and Absentee Application Deadlines
The last day to register in-person at the Board of Elections is Oct. 9th. The last day to post mark a registration form is Oct. 9^thand must be received by Oct. 14^th. The last day to postmark an application for an absentee ballot is Oct. 27^th and the last day to postmark an absentee ballot is Nov. 3^rd (Election Day).