By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 17 May 2021 at 7:57 am
ALBION – Heather Hapeman wanted to celebrate 15 years of business in Albion, and thank her dance families for helping her reach the milestone.
When Hapeman opened Dance Reflections by Miss Heather 15 years ago, she didn’t have a ribbon-cutting. On Sunday, she was joined by Albion Mayor Eileen Banker and Village Trustee Stan Farone for the ribbon-cutting. Hapeman’s daughter Coraline, 5, cut the ribbon with giant scissors.
The mayor praised Hapeman for being so committed to the Albion community and the dancers. Hapeman is proof a small business can succeed in the Albion downtown, with lots of determination and a dedication.
And the 15-year celebration comes after a difficult past 14 months during the Covid-19 pandemic. Restrictions from the state forced the studio to close temporarily in March 2020. There wasn’t a recital last May to cap the season because of the state-imposed shutdown.
Hapeman instead created a video compilation with photos of all 131 of her students last year, and she made a display of paper hearts with all of their names that she hung in the window of Dance Reflections at 52 North Main St.
Heather Hapeman didn’t have a ribbon-cutting when she opened the business 15 years ago. Today, she and her family celebrated the milestone. Pictured from left include Heather’s parents, Tom and Theresa O’Hearn, Jared, Heather and Coraline Hapeman, Heather’s brother Patrick O’Hearn, and Heather’s grandparents, Sandy and Joe Sacco.
The business was able to reopen for classes in the fall, with new protocols including temperature checks, waiting outside instead of the front room, sanitizing hands, wearing masks and reduced class sizes to allow the dancers to be spread out at least 6 feet.
“The kids have just been so resilient this year,” Hapeman said. “They showed grace. I’m so proud of them.”
If a dancer had any symptoms of Covid, even a runny nose, they were kept home. Hapeman would do dance lessons through Zoom for people who couldn’t come to dance classes because of being quarantined or kept home due to Covid safety measures.
“The parents have been amazing,” Hapeman said. “We’ve had no issues with Covid. The parents would keep their kids home if there were any signs.”
Dance Reflections is nearing the end of this dance year and there will be a recital. Normally the recital is at the Albion Middle School Auditorium. That space has been off limits to outside school groups this school year. The middle and high school drama programs, the band and chorus have all done their performances online this year without an in-person audience.
Hapeman wanted her dancers to perform in-person for their families. That will happen this Saturday with the recital at the Orleans County 4-H Fairgrounds which has a stage, dressing rooms and open-air seating area.
“The kids are super-super excited for the recital,” she said.
Hapeman, 39, has been dancing since she was 2. She teaches all of the classes at Dance Reflections, including genres in tap, jazz, hip hop, soft and pointe shoe ballet, contemporary/lyrical, and dance classes for families and adults.
There was a preregistration last week and 75 students already signed up for the fall. There will be two more registrations in August. For more information, click here.
Albion Mayor Eileen Banker and Village Trustee Stan Farone presented a citation from the village, congratulating Heather Hapeman on 15 years of business in Albion. She praised the Hapemans for their committing to Albion and so many children and families.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 16 May 2021 at 1:19 pm
Hoag Library, 4-H Fairgrounds and Ridgeway Fire Hall all hosting
Photo by Tom Rivers: Diana Fox and Daisy greet people on Saturday during a mass vaccination clinic at GCC in Batavia, where about 400 doses of the Covid-19 vaccine were administered. Daisy the dog has been popular at the clinic, especially with the younger people, helping to ease some nervousness before getting the shot.
The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments will be on the road this week with pop-up vaccine clinics. The Health Department have been offering the Covid-19 vaccines at the Ridgeway fire hall and at GCC in Batavia.
This week the vaccine will be offered at other locations as well by the G-O Health Departments.
In Orleans County that includes:
• Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Hoag Library, 134 S Main St, Albion – Moderna for walk-ins and appointments (Click here to make an appointment); and Johnson & Johnson for walk-ins.
• Wednesday from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. at Ridgeway Fire Hall – Pfizer for appointment only. Click here to make an appointment, currently none available but spots could open up. Johnson & Johnson, for walk-ins and appointment. (Click here for an appointment).
• Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Orleans County Fairgrounds, 12690 New York 31, in Knowlesville – Moderna for walk-ins and appointments (Click here to make an appointment); and Johnson & Johnson for walk-ins.
In Genesee County:
• Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Genesee County Health Department, 3837 W Main Street Rd., Batavia – Moderna for walk-ins and appointments (Click here to make an appointment); Johnson & Johnson for walk-ins.
• Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at UR Medicine, Primary Care – LeRoy Medical Associates at 127 W Main St., Le Roy. This includes Moderna for walk-ins and Johnson & Johnson for walk-ins.
“We are happy to be able to provide the pop-up clinics between the two counties,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director in the two counties. “With the shift in bringing clinics close to where people live, work, and play and being more flexible with the scheduling now is a great opportunity for more people to get vaccinated. Being fully vaccinated, 2 weeks after the second dose for Moderna and Pfizer and 2 weeks after the single dose of Johnson & Johnson will help us enjoy the spring and summer activities with less restrictions.”
The Pfizer vaccine is now able to vaccinate anyone 12 years old and older. Clinics with Johnson & Johnson and Moderna will be available for walk-in and registration. Pfizer clinics are by registration only.
For those who do not have internet they can call the GO Health Vaccine Registration Help Lines: Genesee at 585-815-7168 and Orleans at 585-589-3170.
These lines are to make vaccine appointments, and not able to answer Covid-related questions, and are not associated with either Health Department.
“With everyone looking forward to the summer and the looser restrictions we encourage everyone to get vaccinated now,” Pettit said. “There are plenty of options to get any of the three vaccines offered. For your health and the health of others, we encourage everyone who is able to be vaccinated to get vaccinated now.”
If you are a business/church/organization that is interested in hosting a vaccination clinic at your location, fill out the survey by clicking here.
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has signed legislation (S.5923-A/A.6617-A) protecting New Yorkers’ Covid-19 stimulus payments from being garnished by debt collectors.
All relief payments to New Yorkers under these federal acts, including stimulus payments, tax refunds, rebates, and tax credits to support individuals and children qualified for or received prior to the effective date, will be protected.
This legislation also creates a carve-out for claims brought by individuals who have an interest in the relief payments to ensure that these funds can be collected to pay child and spousal support and to collect payments in situations involving fraud.
Any person who is subject to a money judgment being enforced against their bank account will receive a notice that Covid-19 stimulus funds are protected and if they have been inadvertently frozen by a creditor, they should promptly return a form included with the notice to get those funds released.
“New Yorkers in every corner of the State felt the effects of the Covid pandemic, many losing jobs due to no fault of their own and struggling to support themselves and their families,” Governor Cuomo said. “This critical legislation will help ensure relief payments made to New Yorkers are protected from unscrupulous debt collectors so that the money can be used as it was intended – to help make individuals and families whole as they continue to recover from the economic impacts of the pandemic.”
Stimulus payments were provided to individuals and families with children to help them meet their financial needs and support themselves and their families while dealing with the unprecedented economic and health consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic. This new legislation will help ensure New Yorkers have the opportunity to use the full benefit of the financial assistance provided by these federal acts.
Any New Yorker with questions about these protections can call the New York Department of Financial Services Consumer Assistance Unit toll-free at 800-342-3736 or send an email to consumers@dfs.ny.gov, and anyone who has had their stimulus payments taken by a debt collector after May 13, 2021 should file a complaint with the New York Department of Financial Services at www.dfs.ny.gov/complaint.
Some people like to go on adventures that are hair raising like bungee jumping. For me a good adventure involves a little less adrenaline. That is why when on holiday, I decided to participate in the Scout About. Totally my speed. No heights or fast speeds involved. Truth be told I am pretty sure it was meant for children, but since my inner child is still alive and well, I concluded it qualified me to participate.
The location was South Seas Island and the mission was to collect colored wristbands at 15 different discovery points. First obstacle, learning to drive the golf cart we rented. It was a bit intimidating, but in no time at all I moved freely at 5 miles per hour. Each day brought new adventure and new opportunity. Many times I ventured out alone since my husband declared it too hot outside. That was fine with me because I am my own best company and audience. Alone time with myself is always lovely.
If I don’t have fun then there is no one to blame but myself! Map in hand with sheer grit and determination I braved the South Seas in search of the colored bracelets and the knowledge gained at each point of interest. There was a Key Lime Tree, Osprey, Sea Turtle, Manatee hunt and more. Not every hunt actually involved seeing the actual point of interest. However, there would be a placard with pictures and information on the South Seas subject. This treasure hunt found me at the Attitude Beach Bar one afternoon. Which was perfect because I was all full of attitude because I was successfully collecting colored bracelets daily… all on my own.
The most fascinating thing to learn about was the Green Flash. The Green Flash is when conditions are perfect enough in the atmosphere where at either sunrise or sunset a Green Flash will appear atop the Sunrise/Sunset. It is very fleeting and only lasts a couple seconds. Unfortunately, I was not lucky enough to actually witness The Green Flash, however it is something to aspire to see someday. And The Green Flash Restaurant where I ate a hearty breakfast each morning more than made up for it… because all things are forgiven with good food. Oh, and my husband never missed the breakfast, it was never too hot for that.
Some hunts were easily found and others required a bit of hiking or searching. In the end I collected all 15 bracelets. Proudly I hopped into the golf cart and with tremendous spirit I presented my bands to the counselor at Camp Scullywags. They awarded me with a final bracelet and sent me to the board with my official paperwork to post this great accomplishment. Just like all the kids under the age of 15 on the board, my inner child was also alive and well. No matter how old you are, keep your inner child alive and let them out to play. Adulting is awesome, but sometimes the simple pleasures of childhood are just as rewarding. What adventure keeps you young?
To see my wristbands visit my blog live online (click here) and catch up on Weekly Photo Perks and past Sunday Posts. Like and share your comments.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 15 May 2021 at 10:02 pm
Photos by Tom Rivers
BARRE – Firefighters cut through the roof of a house at Rice Homes off Route 98, to ventilate the structure. The house is next to this camper.
Firefighters were called to the scene at 8:48 p.m. for reports of a structure fire. The occupant of the house was cooking bacon and the fire started in the kitchen. Orleans County fire investigators are at the scene to officially determine the cause.
The man in house was able to safely get outside but Barre Fire Chief James Neal said a dog died in the fire.
The house suffered water and smoke damage, and Neal said it appears the contents are all ruined.
The man who lives at the house has a burn on his hand, and some minor injuries with cuts and scrapes.
Albion, Barre and Medina firefighters responded to the scene, as well as the Orleans County Emergency Management Office, Orleans County Sheriff’s Office and the State Police.
BARKER – Several residents have been displaced after a fire on Main Street in Barker today, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office is reporting.
The Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received multiple 911 calls at about 2 p.m. reporting smoke and fire coming from the top floor from a multi-dwelling complex at 8703 Main St.
All parties were safely evacuated. One person was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation, the Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.
The fire was subsequently extinguished by members of the Barker VFD, assisted by Hartland, Lyndonville, Olcott, Wrights Corners, and Miller Hose Fire Departments.
An investigation into the cause of the fire by the Niagara County Origin and Cause Team is underway. All parties living in the complex have been displaced by the fire. The Red Cross is assisting those families.
GAINES – The expression, “Everyone Loves a Parade,” was certainly true in the Hamlet of Childs with the throng of onlookers and parade participants for the Historic Gaines Jubilee Parade in July 1984, celebrating the Town’s 175th Anniversary.
Linda Snyder and friend wave to onlookers with smiling faces all around at Harbor Crafts. The H&A Superette and Liquor store are seen in the background.
Elizabeth Vick (Church Historian), Arnold Vick, Alice & Earl Cole and Nancy Good celebrate 200 Years of Methodism.
American Legion Auxiliary, Albion
Lois Reid sets the pace for the members of the NYS Award winning Night Watch Drum and Bugle Corp. Scott Parker was the drum instructor.
More members of the Firemen’s Parade Champions, Knight Watch.
What’s a birthday celebration without cake? Gaines Congregational Church Float. These little tikes are probably 40 years old now.
The Cobblestone Universalist Church is decorated for the patriotic observance.
Even the horses got dressed up for the occasion.
Hey somebody has to do it! With all the horses, the pooper scooper is a necessity.
Ridge Equipment is ready to give Ol’ Betsy a boost.
Legionnaires help celebrate.
Thank you for your service! We salute our Vietnam vets, Genesee Valley Chapter!
Mary Ann Pixley is riding high in this equestrian unit.
Ingrid LaMont is all smiles, and husband Roger is keeping a watchful eye.
Dig those white sidewall tires!
Queen for a day!
Uncle Sam gets a lift.
We honor and respect our firemen. Richard Tibbitts marching in line.
Where’s your pants, Pete?
Clowns and more.
Frenchy’s Appliance: Entertainment: Then and Now. (Looks like “Now” is a little outdated today.) But, Everett “Frenchy” Downey is still going strong.
Lamont Storage, Densmore Road, Albion.
Ruth and Robert Brown riding their historic John Deere tractor.
By Kim Pritt, Contributor Posted 15 May 2021 at 3:00 pm
Muir Woods National Monument, 12 miles north of San Francisco, is a dense forest of massive old growth coastal redwoods.
Let’s go on an adventure together….to Napa Valley and Muir Woods, California!
We visited San Francisco last time, so let’s stay in that area of the west coast. Today, I’ll take you to Muir Woods, Sausalito, Napa Valley, and Sonoma. I spent two wonderful, sunny California days touring these four locations. Getting to visit Napa Valley was the main reason I decided to extend my time in the San Francisco area – the whole week there was amazing, but I especially enjoyed the two days I spent on these tours.
I used Gray Line and chose two full day tours – the first took me to Muir Woods and Sausalito and the next day focused on Napa Valley and Sonoma. Both tours were awesome! So relaxing and so much natural beauty to enjoy along the ride and at each stop. And, it is always a pleasure to sit back and let someone else do the driving and provide interesting information along the way.
Muir Woods is designated a National Monument. It is 12 miles north of San Francisco and covers 554 acres with 240 acres of old growth coastal redwood forest. We were dropped off and told we had a couple hours to walk the trails and enjoy the park. And, I did just that. Due to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, dense woods, and streams, it tends to always feel damp and cool within the park, which was welcome on that hot, sunny day California day. It was very difficult to get any really good photos of the trees because they are so tall, but I did the best I could and got some really nice shots along the trails as I walked and sat on benches along the way and just gazed in awe at the massive trees and God’s splendor. It really was incredible.
Sausalito, California – a quaint harbor town directly across the bay from San Francisco.
After we left Muir Woods, we were dropped off at Sausalito – a lovely little harbor town located directly across the bay from San Francisco and loaded with high end shops and restaurants. I wasn’t really interested in shopping – I much preferred to spend my time sitting on a bench overlooking the harbor and watch the boats and birds! I wandered around the town a bit and was so happy for the breeze off the bay and the beautiful scenery.
The next day was spent in Napa Valley and Sonoma. WOW! What a treat to gaze upon the beautiful country views throughout these valleys. Of course, it was a wine tasting tour, but even if you don’t partake in the wine, these tours are so interesting, relaxing, and full of spectacular sights – rolling hills, farm land, and vineyards as far as the eye could see.
Sutter Homes Winery is famous for their White Zinfandel wine and interesting story with stunning gardens and Victorian Inn.
We stopped at two small family owned estate wineries: Nicholson Ranch in Sonoma and Madonna Estates in Napa Valley. Both were stunning wineries and the hosts were amazing with their stories and information. And the wine was pretty spectacular, too. Nicholson Ranch is known for its Pinot Noir and, I must say, it was really quite good.
After the morning stops, we drove to Yountville for lunch. Yountville is a wonderfully quaint little town. We had a couple hours to spend having lunch on our own and enjoying the town. I chose to eat at a very nice restaurant called Pacific Blues and then strolled the streets to explore and get some photos. I found a bakery that is part of one of the four Michelin Star restaurants located in the small town. They had an assortment of goodies that made me melt just looking at them in the showcase. I bought an assortment of French Macarons to take back to my hotel for later in the evening – WOW – they really hit the spot after a long day of touring.
Nicholson Ranch Estate Winery seen from the road. One of many beautiful landscapes, farm lands, and vineyards in the Napa Valley and Sonoma areas near San Francisco, CA.
After lunch, we stopped at the Sutter Homes Winery – I had hoped we’d stick with smaller, family owned estate wineries, but this large, internationally known winery was pretty amazing. They have gorgeous gardens and an impressive Victorian Inn that I had a field day photographing. But, it was their cool story that I was most intrigued by. They started out as a small family run farm vineyard. The current family used all their savings (their last $20,000) to purchase the vineyard and winery from the original owners. They were so broke as they worked to get started that they didn’t even have enough money to pay to have the name legally changed – so they just left it as Sutter Home. Then, they “accidentally” developed the first ever White Zinfandel wine – they were working on a red zinfandel and it came out looking more like a rose’ and had a very unique taste. They decided to market it and America fell in love with it. It made them millionaires literally overnight. They served us tastings of a higher end version of that White Zinfandel that they only sell at the winery and some other signature wines that are not sold commercially and they were all excellent.
On the way back to the hotel, we drove by several beautiful wineries, including the Robert Mondavi Winery and other well-known brands. I also saw several pastures with a type of cow I’ve never seen before – Belted Galloway Cattle – a.k.a Oreo Cows. They originate from the west side of southern Scotland and are mostly black with a large white “belt” around their middle section. So, lots of cool things to see and do in and around that area of California.
Visit my blog for all the photos from this gorgeous area of our amazing country:
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 15 May 2021 at 1:15 pm
Photo by Tom Rivers
ALBION – Sarah Papponetti and her mother Sue are out with the Albion Fire Department today, collecting money for the boot drive at the intersection of routes 98 and 31. The Papponettis were on Route 31, just west of the intersection. Many of the AFD fundraisers have been cancelled during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Deputy David H. Whittier – End of Watch, September 8, 1989. Whittier was on routine road patrol when he came upon an unoccupied pickup truck on Gaines Basin Road on Jan. 19, 1989. While Whittier was inspecting the truck, he was hit by a drunk driver and then dragged about 100 feet. He survived the accident and remained in the hospital until April 1989. After being home for a few months, his condition did not improve. He had contracted cancer, which doctors said was trauma induced. Doctors said his immune system was too compromised due to injuries sustained from the accident. Whittier was 41 when he died on Sept. 8, 1989. About 700 people, including police officers around the state, attended his funeral in Clarendon at the Disciples United Methodist Church.
Press Release, Sheriff Chris Bourke
In 1989 Deputy David H. Whittier had succumbed to injuries sustained earlier in the year when he was struck by a drunk driver while on duty. During the collision, Deputy Whittier was pinned between an abandoned vehicle and the suspect’s vehicle.
Deputy Whittier will always be remembered for his sacrifice, diligence, dedication and service to our community.
He was survived by his wife Connie, and two children, Kellie and Thad. The Whittier family continues to remain in our thought and prayers.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 14 May 2021 at 11:39 pm
Photos by Cheryl Wertman – Escorted by fire trucks, Medina players are shown here during their pre game walk to Vets Park where the Mustangs trimmed Southwestern 21-13 this evening to capture the Section VI Class C championship. Click here to view the video of the parade. from the Middle school to Vets Park.
Mustangs quarterback Xander Payne delivers a pass.
Medina’s Joe Cecchini tackles Trojans quarterback Aidan Kennedy.
Medina’s Corey Saj drags Southwestern tackler Matt Pannes as he tries for additional yardage.
Medina’s Tyler Chinn looks to evade Trojans defender Matt Pannes.
Mustangs defender Brian Fry hauls in one of his two pass interceptions.
Though it was the end of the Covid-19 Pandemic caused first ever Spring football season a large crowd had Vets Park rocking this evening as if it was a warm Autumn Friday night. The crowd and players here stand at attention during the playing of the national anthem.
By Mike Wertman, Sports Writer Posted 14 May 2021 at 10:33 pm
Photo by Cheryl Wertman – Medina players and coaches celebrate with the championship plaque after edging Southwestern for the Section VI Class C title this evening at Vets Park.
In a down to the wire thriller, Medina ended a 33 year playoff title drought by edging past Southwestern 21-13 in the Section VI Class C championship game this evening at Vets Park.
“It feels great. It’s been a long time coming,” said Brian Fry who scored all three Medina touchdowns and also had a huge day on defense with two pass interceptions and two fumble recoveries.
The outcome wasn’t decided until the final seconds when the Mustangs defensive unit came up huge to stop a Southwestern drive at the Medina 10 yard line as a big hit by Noah Skinner knocked the ball loose and Fry made the recovery to seal the victory.
Medina’s Brian Fry celebrates with Mitchell Silversmith (76) and Colvin Stalker (59) after his victory clinching fumble recovery in the final seconds.
“That was a huge play at the end,” said Medina Coach Eric Valley. “The defense played lights out. It just feels amazing.”
The Mustangs defensive unit also came up with a huge goal line stand early in the fourth quarter stopping three Trojan running plays at the 1 yard line.
“Those were huge plays. That was the turning point,” said Valley.
Medina jumped out to a quick 7-0 lead by taking the opening kickoff and driving 72 yards in 14 plays capped off by a 3 yard touchdown run by Fry and an extra point kick by Cole Seefeldt.
The Mustang twice converted fourth down plays on the drive via pass competition by quarterback Xander Payne first of 10 yards to Joe Cecchini and then of 14 to Tyler Chinn. Payne also hooked up with Jarin Rhim for a 17 yard pickup and Cecchini for 12 yards on the drive.
Southwestern though answered back with an 11 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Aidan Kennedy to Nate Johnson two minutes later but the Trojans missed the extra point kick keeping Medina up by a slender 7-6 margin. A 65 yard pass completion from Kennedy to Johnson keyed that drive which was set up by a pass interception by Garrett Swan.
The Medina defense stopped Southwestern’s other two opening quarter possessions first on a fumble recovery by Chris Johnson and later on a sack by Cecchini and Johnson which forced a short Trojan punt from the Southwestern 12.
Medina’s Chris Johnson sacks Southwestern quarterback Aidan Kennedy.
The Medina offensive unit was quick to capitalize on that opportunity. Starting from the Southwestern 28 it took the Mustangs just three plays to find the endzone on runs by Fry of 14, 13 and finally 1 yard for the TD. Payne then hooked up with Corey Saj for the two-point conversion giving Medina a 15-6 lead with 31 seconds to go in the opening period.
Late in the second quarter an interception by Fry gave Medina the ball at the Southwestern 45. A 22 yard pass from Payne to Fry quickly moved the ball to the 23 but from there the drive stalled out on downs.
Bolstered by that defensive stand, the Southwestern offense got rolling as Kennedy broke loose and zig zagged his way all the way up field for a 67 yard touchdown run with just 25 seconds to go in the half. The extra point kick by Neves Hoose pulled the Trojans with two, 15-13 at the half.
The Medina defense again came up huge on the first play of the second half as Fry recovered a fumble near midfield and returned it all the way to the Southwestern 4.
Pushed back twice by penalties and then aided by a big roughing the passer penalty against the Trojans on fourth down, the Mustangs finally scored on a 2 yard touchdown run by Fry with 6:51 to go in the third quarter to make it 21-13.
“We moved the ballin critical situations,” said Valley.
The Mustangs defensive unit then made that lead hold up with several huge plays over the last quarter and a half.
First, Fry made a leaping interception in the Medina end zone to turn back a Southwestern threat late in the third quarter. Then the defensive unit made the critical goal line stand in the first two minute of the final quarter stopping three Trojan runs from the one yard line.
Finally, the big hit by Skinner and the fumble recovery by Fry at the Medina 10 in the final seconds capped off the thrilling win earning the Mustangs an undefeated 6-0 season and their first sectional championship since 1988.
Medina is now 4-0 in sectional title contests having previously defeated Silver Creek 20-14 in 1980, Cassadaga Valley 26-7 in 1982 and rival Albion 14-7 in 1988.
Fry takes the game winning fumble recovery up field as Southwestern’s Nate Johnson tries to make the tackle.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 14 May 2021 at 4:44 pm
2 counties report 42 new cases since Tuesday; Genesee has 2 more Covid deaths
The number of active Covid-19 cases in Genesee and Orleans counties has declined from 151 a week ago to 108 today, according to an update this afternoon from the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments.
The 108 active cases today includes 65 in Orleans and 43 in Genesee, which compares to 82 in Orleans and 69 in Genesee a week ago.
There are 42 new cases reported today in the two counties over the past three days since the last update on Tuesday. That brings the pandemic total in the two counties to 8,242 since March 2020.
7-day totals: The number of new cases the past seven days totaled 111, which 53 in Orleans and 58 in Genesee. That is down from the 157 the previous week when there were 73 new cases in Orleans and 84 in Genesee. Before that week there were 164 the seven days ending April 30, 187 the seven days ending April 23, 180 the seven days ending April 16, and 186 the seven days ending April 9.
In Orleans County the 16 new positive cases since Tuesday brings the county’s pandemic total to 3,023 positive cases. The individuals are in the age groups of 0-19, 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and 80s.
Orleans currently doesn’t have any of its residents hospitalized due to Covid.
The county also has 30 more of the previous positive individuals who have completed their 10-day isolation and been removed from mandatory isolation.
In Genesee County there are 26 new positive cases since Tuesday for a total of 5,219 cases during the pandemic. The individuals are in the age groups of 0-19, 20s and 50s.
There are currently 7 Genesee residents hospitalized due to Covid. The county also had two more deaths from Covid in the past week and has now had 123 resident die from a Covid-related illness in the pandemic.
Genesee also is reporting 34 of the previous positive individuals have completed their 10-day isolation and been removed from mandatory isolation.
More from the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments:
Masking: Although the CDC has determined it is safe for the majority of those who are fully vaccinated to not have to wear masks in most cases indoors and outside, NYS is currently still under the masking guidance and will be for both those fully vaccinated (2 weeks after final vaccination) or anyone not vaccinated. We are currently waiting on the State DOH and the chamber to provide updated guidance on these recommendations. We are advocating for the state to quickly adopt the CDC recommendations but until any changes are released current guidelines remain in effect.
Vaccine Update: Anyone 12 and older is now eligible to be vaccinated against COVID- 19. Currently only the Pfizer vaccine is allowed for those who are 12-17 years old. All vaccination clinics are for both first and second doses for Moderna and Pfizer brands on a “First Come, First Served” basis. Some clinics have walk-in (generally Moderna and Johnson & Johnson) and some are by appointment only (generally Pfizer). Please note making an appointment for any of the clinics will help save you time and make sure there is vaccine available for you.
For GO Health Department-run clinics use this link for updated clinics:
For general clinic locations, including pharmacies, go to www.vaccines.gov.
Both counties are offering vaccination clinic registration via phone – these numbers are for Covid Vaccination Registration only. In Genesee, call (585) 815-7168. In Orleans, call (585) 589-3170. For both numbers ask for the vaccine registration help line. The vaccine registration help line is NOT associated with either Public Health Department. The individuals who answer the phone can only assist with registering for a Covid-19 clinic, they cannot answer Covid-related questions.
For more information about the vaccine and access for those who are 60 and older who do not have internet access, please contact your respective Office for the Aging (OFA). For Genesee OFA please call 585-813-2457 for Covid-19 Vaccine assistance between 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and leave a message if you get voicemail and someone will return the call. For Orleans OFA please call 585-589-3191 between 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and leave a message if you get voicemail and someone will return the call.
The OFA offices can only assist with the clinic links as they are available. The system may experience slowdowns. Please be patient and try again later.
Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) is putting pressure on Gov. Cuomo to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) example and lift all mask mandates for those who have completed their Covid-19 vaccinations.
A proponent against the one-size-fits-all solution to New York’s fight against the pandemic, Hawley sees no reason why the entire state should continue to follow the draconian enforcement of capacity restrictions and mask wearing if the federal government is ready to move on.
“Western New York is ready to move on from the pandemic, and we’re grateful for the recognition of personal responsibility the CDC is returning to the people,” Hawley said. “It’s been a long time coming, as the governor’s continued restrictions are seemingly less and less about science and safety and more about continued state control over every aspect of our lives. The people of New York are reliable, smart and trustworthy, and the governor must absolutely follow the example of the CDC.”
Hawley said he staunchly believes in leaving the responsibility and decision making to the localities.
“I’ve said from the start that part of the mismanagement of the fight against Covid is the fact that the state oversaw it all without partnering with local governments,” Hawley said. “These local institutions know the needs and capabilities of their areas better than the state, and they’ll be able to legislate accordingly moving forward.”
