ONTARIO: Wayne passed away Sunday, November 10, 2019. Predeceased by his parents; and wife Judy. Survived by his sisters Christine Coppins (Lewiston, NY), Donna Merrit (Burt, NY) and Nancy Loeffert (Brick, NJ); his daughter Roblyn Powley (Greg Cunningham) and granddaughter Althea Jude Cunningham. Born August 24th 1943 and a graduate of Newfane High School in Newfane, NY (Class of 1961). A design engineer by trade and one of those guys who could do, or fix, or tell you how to do just about everything. Known to be quick with a joke or an opinion, Wayne was loved, admired and is deeply missed by his family and friends. A memorial gathering will be held Saturday, July 11, 2020 at the Brookside (2990 Lockport Olcott Rd, Newfane NY 14108) from 10:30am-1:30pm. in lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association or American Heart Association, and hold tight to the precious moments with those you love.  To leave a condolence, light a candle, or to upload a photo please visit www.murphyfuneralservices.com.

The post Powley, Wayne C appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

PALMYRA: Age 50, died suddenly June 21, 2020. Survived by his wife Tamar; children Brian, Shavone (Stewart), Austin, Joseph, and James; three grandchildren including special granddaughter Caliope. Also survived by his mother Jane LaBombard; brother Steve (Shannon) Weigel; many aunts, nieces and nephews. Predeceased by stepfather James LaBombard; and grandparents Doris and Hugh Weigel. The family will receive visitors on Friday June 26, 2020 from 10:00am -1:00pm at Murphy Funeral & Cremation Chapel, 1040 state route 31, Macedon NY 14502.  Due to COVID-19, all visitors must wear a mask and adhere to social distancing mandates in place.  To light a candle, leave a condolence, or upload a photo please visit www.murphyfuneralservices.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a GoFundMe account that is being set up to help Dan’s youngest son Jimmy (15) who was living with him, and his 1-year old granddaughter, Caliope, who he had custody of and had living with him.  Dan’s extended family is organizing this fund to raise money for Jimmy and Caliope as they transition to new living arrangements without their father/papa.

The post Weigel, Daniel appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

UPDATE: Family and friends are invited to gather on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 from 10-11AM followed by a Mass, all to be held at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish at St. Mary’s of the Lake Catholic Church, 5823 Walworth Road, Ontario, NY 14519. Inurnment will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Due to COVID-19, all visitors are expected to wear their mask and adhere to social distancing policies as directed by church and funeral home staff. Macedon, NY: Passed away unexpectedly in Lakeland, Florida on May 4th. Born in 1943 in Canastota, NY, she graduated from SUNY Morrisville and had a long career as an LPN. She was a nurse at multiple hospitals and nursing homes in the region. She is survived by her husband Paul Martin. She is also survived by son, Doug (Sandy) Martin and daughter Jennifer (Jon) Boon. She is predeceased by her daughter Lori Martin. Christine is survived by her grandchildren Michael (fiancé Alyson) Martin, Nicolas (fiancé Claire) Martin, Nathan Martin, Cameron Boon, Tyler Boon and Brianna Boon. She is also survived by her brother Sam Sgroi, sister Nancy (Dick Stack) Krawczeski and multiple nieces, nephews and cousins. She is predeceased by her sister Josephine Waterman. Christine loved her family fiercely. She could often be seen supporting her grandchildren at various sporting events, concerts, and school activities. She cheered them on in basketball, hockey, swimming, softball, lacrosse, and track. She enjoyed gardening, baking, card games, camping in the Adirondacks and trips to the casino.  She relished her winters in Florida where she soon made many friends. Christine was kind, compassionate, and always had an engaging, welcoming smile. Expressions of sympathy in memory of Christine may be directed to the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester, 1048 University Ave., Rochester, NY 14607.  To light a candle, leave a condolence, or to upload a photo, please visit www.murphyfuneralservices.com

The post Martin,  Christine appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

Below is the update to our current COVID-19 statistics. As of this 6/25/20,  Wayne County Public Health can confirm that our total number of positive cases of COVID-19 is now 148. This is an increase of 5 cases since our last update.

Please help us by continuing to stress, significantly, the use of masks. It is a vital contribution to the successes so far, including our movement through phased reopening, but buy-in seems to be waning. It is crucial for mask use to continue and gain more support.

We can also confirm that at this time we have had 8043 tests completed and processed, with 7895 of them receiving negative results. These are completed tests WITH lab results. This is not the total number of our residents who have been tested, we only post statistics that include results. We do not include tests pending results in those numbers. We are awaiting the processing of many more tests at this time.

Out of our 148 positive cases, we have 110 cases resolved/recovered, 38 cases remain active and recovering, 3 of the 38 cases still require hospitalization, and we have had 4 deaths of a people related to COVID-19.

• 2 Female/Males under the age of 10
• 2 Female/Male in their teens
• 20 Females/Males in their 20s
• 19 Females/Males in their 30s
• 24 Females/Males in his 40s
• 32 Females/Males in their 50s
• 27 Females/Males in their 60s
• 13 Females/Males in their 70s
• 8 Female/male in their 80s
• 1 Female/Male in their 90s

Thank you for your support,

Ryan Mulhern B.S.

Thank you for your support,

Ryan Mulhern B.S.

Public Health Educator

Wayne County Public Health

1519 Nye Road Suite 200  Lyons  NY  14489

Phone: 315.946.5749

Fax:     315.946.5762

RMulhern@co.wayne.ny.us

Like us on Facebook!!

The post UPDATED COVID numbers in in Wayne County appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

WALWORTH: George Albert Schaller, Jr. passed away peacefully June 23, 2020.  Born in a lighthouse in Portland, Maine, son of George and Eleanor Platt Schaller, he is survived by his sisters, Pamela (James) Violetto of Dagsboro, DE and Linda (Lawrence) Paris of Littleton, CO.  He also leaves his beloved children Michelle M. Schaller Burks of Macedon, Scott A. (Barbara Ridley) Schaller of Waterloo and George Albert “Chip” (Andrea) Schaller III of Pittsfield, MA. He bequeaths to the world his six cherished grandchildren, Nicholas Burks of East Rochester, Tiffany Burks, Ariel Gaziano, and Samuel Gaziano, all of Macedon, Quinn and Hazel Schaller of Pittsfield, and four nieces and nephews. Two dear friends also mourn his loss: Maureen A. Whiting of Macedon and Christine P. Schaller of Batavia. Maverick and Taco have lost their best friend. A graduate of the State University College of New York at Morrisville, George attended Rochester Institute of Technology and served for many years as Water Superintendent for the Town of Walworth.  A born genius, George could fix anything and loved all living things. Memorial Services to be arranged at a later time. Willard H. Scott Funeral Home

The post Schaller, Jr., George A.  appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

WILLIAMSON: Left this physical world on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at the age of 76. Gary was born to Richard G. and Audray M. Kinnius-Weber on February 10, 1944 in Troy, NY.  Gary was the oldest of three boys in the Weber household, and grew up in the greater Rochester area with the last family home in Greece, NY.  Gary enjoyed playing baseball and other various sports throughout his teenage years. Gary graduated from Edison Tech High School in 1962, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy for a four year term the following September. During his Navy enlistment, Gary went to RTC Great Lakes for boot camp and Machinist’s Mate “A” School for his initial training. He served on the USS Holland, AS-32 Submarine Tender stationed in Rota, Spain for 2 years. He was a Plank-owner on the USS Holland.  His second duty station was the USS Boxer, LPH-4, which he served until his discharge from the Navy. During his time on the Boxer, they recovered the Appollo-Saturn Module AS-201, and taking many Troops and helicopters to Vietnam. Gary began his civilian career carried over from his Navy training by Joining U.A. Local 13, Plumbers and Pipefitters Union in the fall of 1967. That would be Gary’s career for 31 years working for various Mechanical Contractors associated with the Union. He loved his job being able to travel to a different job site every day and never was a dull moment. Gary married Nancy Calus on March 24th, 1973 in Ontario, NY. They had one son, Wade Weber. In 1976 they bought the Calus Farm on Salmon Creek Rd to grow apples as a family farm.  Gary, Nancy, Dolores and Merton Goodale actively ran the farm until 1992. Gary worked full time and ran the farm part time with the family. Gary enjoyed hunting, fishing, buying and fixing large tractors, loading ammunition, and buying firearms. He took on many projects improving the farm and family home. Gary was predeceased by his wife Nancy, Brothers Dale A and Ronald M Weber, and his parents. He is survived by his son, Wade and Jennifer Weber, Grandaughters Madison and Grace Weber, Brothers in-law Donald and Sharon Calus, Merton Goodale, Richard and Kathy Calus, Kevin Wilson, his Aunt Evelyn Weber-Miller, Cousin Pam Baier and various nieces & nephews. A private graveside service and burial will be held in Lake View Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Online condolences can be expressed at www.youngfuneralhomeny.com

The post Weber, Gary Richard appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

SHORTSVILLE: Albert (affectionately known as Albee) died suddenly at the age of 58 on June 22, 2020. Albee leaves behind his wife Sharon; their three children, Mark, Shawn, and Christina; granddaughter KelliAnn Greene; sister, Sharon (Dan) Chavez and their children, DJ (Tracey) Chavez, Justine (Don) Wing and Courtney (Aaron) Chavez; brother-in-law Al Farron and his children Brandon (Katie) Farron and Justin Farron; sister-in-law Theresa (Dan) Hartzell and through them adopted many Hartzell family members; many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends; beloved pets Snickers, Lucas, Bella, Little Miss and Magic.  Albee was predeceased by his father Albert, Sr.; his mother Carla and his sister Barb Ramirez.  Albee enjoyed dirt track racing, NASCAR, and maintaining his aquarium. Often, Albee could be found cleaning the pool and just relaxing in the backyard. Following Albee’s wishes there will be no funeral services; however, a party to celebrate his life will be held at his home on July 12, 2020, 2PM, 4990 Collett Road, Shortsville, NY 14548.  Albee was a registered organ donor.  Please consider becoming a registered organ donor in his memory.  To light a candle, upload a photo, or to leave a condolence, please visit www.murphyfuneralservices.com.

The post Greene, Albert J.  “Albee” appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

NEWARK: William Brightman, 90, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at his home. In accordance with Bill’s wishes all services will be private.  William was born the son of the late Harold and Ruth (Wenban) Brightman on Friday, June 20, 1930, in Baldwinsville, NY. Bill was employed by the New York Telephone Company for thirty-seven and a half years, retiring in 1989.  Over the years, he was a member of the Telephone Pioneers, Newark Masonic Lodge, and the Williamson Flying Club.  He enjoyed his family, hunting at his camp in Canisteo, fishing often in Canada, traveling, flying, a previous home in Sodus Point, and his farm. William will be remembered by his loving wife of 67 years, Christine (Stell) Brightman; son, W. Timothy (Susan) Brightman; daughter, Tracy L. Brightman; grandchildren Chaston (Holly) Brightman, Kellyn Brightman and Kaitlin Brightman; great-grandchildren Gage Brightman, Reed Brightman and McKinley Brightman-Wright; sister, Jeanne Frey; sister-in-law, Joan Stell; brothers-in-law Michael Stell and Sheldon Furber; several nieces and nephews. William was predeceased by his step-father, Frederick Wenban; sisters-in-law Jacqueline Stell Furber and Lainie Stell; brothers-in-law Timothy Stell and Gerald Frey. In memory of William, in lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Fairville Fire Department, 2963 Route 88 North, Newark, NY 14513 Please write a memory or condolence to the family by visiting  www.watermanfuneralhome.com

The post Brightman, William K.  appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

 Mayor Husk opened the Palmyra Village Meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. The Meeting was held at the Village Hall with social distancing protocols in place. All Trustees were present except Trustee Nolan.

The minutes from the June 1, 2020 Regular Meeting were approved. 

Abstract 1A, Vouchers 1-27 for $178,333.99 and Abstract 1B, Vouchers 28-52 for $ 8746.81 were all approved. 

Highway Superintendent Mike Boesel reports that three bids were received for the relocation of the raw water main on Johnson Road. A motion was approved to award the purchase to the low bidder, Core and Main for $11,094.60 to be expended from the water reserves. Superintendent Boesel also discussed the numerous water main breaks the Village has had recently and shared a map of hot spots. It is a 3-mile line from Curran Road all the way into the Village that needs to be addressed with the Wayne County Water & Sewer Authority and to perhaps break down into phases, if needed. 

The Village will currently receive 80% of the CHIPS (Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program) Funds that have been allocated to the Village. 

Trustee Perry made a motion to approve the use of the Fairgrounds for the Conservatory of Dance Recital.

Trustee Warters moved to accept David Oakley Jr. to fill the 14-4 Chief Position for the Fire Department.

Mayor Husk announced the crosswalk will be going in at Throop and East Main Street sometime this construction season. 

Liberio Art notified the Mayor she is opening an Art Studio at 208 East Main Street. 

NYSEG informed the Mayor residents may be looking at the new streetlights by the end of summer. 

The Mayor was authorized to sign the renewal for the Water Supply Agreement with the Wayne County Water & Sewer Authority as amended. 

There was no Executive Session and the Meeting adjourned at 7:10 PM. 

By: Caroline Grasso via Meeting Minutes

The post Palmyra Village Meeting   June 15, 2020 appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

Supervisor Emmel opened the Lyons Town Meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. All Board Members were present.

The minutes from the May 27, 2020 Regular Meeting, the June 15, 2020 Special Meeting and the  June 23, 2020 Workshop Meeting were approved.

A resolution was passed to accept the contract from MRB Group. This will be to rewrite the Comprehensive Plan for the Town of Lyons. A Steering Committee will be formed featuring 5 members and two alternates to assist in the project.     

It was resolved to authorize Bob Stiver to upgrade the Pump Station on the south side of the Canal behind McDonald’s Restaurant and then replace two docks in the same area. Funding will be obtained using money already set aside for the Canal and then additional grant money.

Code Enforcement Officer Dick Bogan reported to the Board he is satisfied with the progress Anne Salerno has made with respect to some violations on her property.

Copies of all Departmental Reports are available upon request from the Town Clerk’s Office.

General Fund Vouchers #253 – #304 for $134,530.63 AND Highway Fund Vouchers #85 – #103 for $133,814.89 were all approved.

Town Assessor Kayla Sturgill advised the Board that the Final Roll will be available after July 1, 2020. The State has issued a final equalization rate of 92%. After much discussion, it was decided to postpone the 2021 update.

The water main relocation at the intersection of Water Street and Geneva Street is progressing nicely.

A Public Hearing will be scheduled for Code Fees on July 29, 2020 at 6:45 PM.

The Board adjourned to enter Executive Session at 7:46 PM to discuss litigation and contracts.

By: Caroline Grasso

The post Lyons Town Meeting   June 24, 2020 appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

The Palmyra Town meeting was called to order with the Pledge of Allegiance and Roll Call.

The Board then approved the minutes ogfoard, spoke regarding concerns about lack of ambulance service in the Town of Palmyra. The Board listened as he discussed how this is likely due to “dispatcher error.”

Supervisor Miller provided an update to the Old Palmyra Landfill; test kits started at the site this week and 3 testing wells will be installed next week.

There was a brief discussion of perhaps moving to a single judge for the Town; this was not acted on.

The NYS Canal Corporation will begin the Earthen Embankment Integrity Program.

Next, the Board decided to allow the Town Hall to be utilized by groups after hours; they did put in a few cautionary measures.

The Highway Department report was given, noting that CHIPS Funds have been released by the state.

The Board approved $7000 for the purchase of a new lawn mower and perhaps a weed whacker.

The Board discussed an issue of flooding onto property that is the result of a Town pump station.

Next, the Board adjourned to Executive Session to discuss possible litigation. Upon return to Open Session,  the Board approved Resolution #7-2020 Health Insurance Benefits Resolution.

The Board then adjourned to Executive Session again to discuss a personnel issue.

The next Regular Town Board Meeting is scheduled for July 23 at 7:00.  By Casey Carpenter

The post Palmyra Town Meeting June 25, 2020 appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

Supervisor Leonard opened the Macedon Town Meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. The Meeting was held via ZOOM conferencing due to COVID-19 restrictions. All Board Members were present.

The minutes from the June 11, 2020 Regular Meeting were approved and the May 2020 Town Clerk Report was accepted.

A Public Hearing was opened at 7:45 PM for Local Law No. 4-2020, which is to Continue, Amend and Recodify the Local Laws, Ordinances, and Certain Resolutions of the Town of Macedon and Former Village of Macedon into a Municipal Code to be designated the “Code of the Town of Macedon”. There was no Public comment and the Public Hearing was closed at 7:50 PM. The Local Law was adopted.

It was resolved the following are 2020 Summer Recreation Appointments:

Shelby Depew – Director $18.70/hr.

Davon McClain – Program Director $13.75/hr.

Sadie Ensign – Counselor $11.80/hr.

Hunter Markham – Counselor $11.80/hr.

Jeremy Norsen from the Recreation Department alerted the Board to a tentative, modified Summer Recreation Program. Program and Registration details can be found on the Town website http://www.macedontown.net/

Hopefully on Friday, June 26, 2020, pavilions will be open at 50% capacity. Gravino Park pavilion will be held to 40 people, the back pavilion at Bullis Park will be held to 32 people and the front pavilion at Bullis Park will be held to 30 people. There will be a COVID-19 waiver that renters will need to sign and strict rules regarding social distancing will need to be followed. If there are any questions, please call the Recreation Department at 315-986-5932.

It was resolved the Supervisor was authorized to execute a Lease Agreement with Gordon Realty for rental of the former Chase Bank Building in West Wayne Plaza pending final attorney approval. The Town Board would like to relocate its Court Room and Administrative Offices. The rent amount will be $416.66/month from July 1, 2020 through December 31, 2020. The rent will be appropriated from surplus funds.

Town Engineer Scott Allen provided the Board with an update on the Verizon Cell Tower and the Cemetery Master Plan projects which are both still in progress. No action was taken by the Board on either item.

There will be a Wayne County Emergency Food Distribution Event at the Marion High School on Tuesday, June 30, 2020 from 3 – 5 PM. Pre-registration is required by calling 315-359-8024. This will continue every Tuesday through August at different locations around Wayne County.

Supervisor Leonard appointed a Special Event Local Law Committee which will consist of Scott Allen, Dick Roets and David Fulvio. This will be for Local Law No. 5-2020 to investigate planning for large events and what would be required to keep residents safe and to also abide by any directives that are in place.

The Macedon Center Fire Department will be having a Chicken BBQ on June 27, 2020 starting at 4:00 PM until gone.

Councilman Babcock announced the Macedon Public Library is in need of a mailbox. A resolution was passed to authorize the purchase and installation of said mailbox.

Councilman Maul advised the Board that he has signed the agreement for the WiFi to be installed at the Town Complex and it is moving ahead.   

A resolution was passed to pay the bills as audited for a total of $143,603.28.

The Board entered Executive Session at 9:45 PM to discuss a personnel matter.

By: Caroline Grasso

The post Macedon Town Meeting   June 25, 2020 appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

• Last week a Sodus man was shot and killed by State Police after lowering a shotgun and firing at the responding police. Unfortunately and very truthful, the concern over many in the police world was that they were grateful the man was NOT Black! No doubt immediate questions would have popped up on the internet.

• At last, somebody was kept in jail for a felony crime. Mark L. Stedge Jr., age 24, of 80 Maple Avenue in the Village of Sodus was  charged, after it was reported to deputies that he was having sexual contact with a 9 year old child over a two year period. Luckily, due to Governor Cuomo and his Democrat-ruled Assembly and State Senate with their policy and laws to let everybody out of jail, regardless of the crime committed, a local judge committed Stedge on No Bail.

Of course, once the new “system” finds out, I am sure Stedge will be released due to their policy that no one really is bad,  just misunderstood. (I later learned he was released the same day).

• I agree the Confederate flag should have bitten the dust over a century ago. I also agree that promoting as heroes, those who promoted the use of slavery and racial bias as a social norm, should not be honored as national, or regional heroes.

I agree the statue of Theodore Roosevelt on a high horse as an American Indian and a Black man standing next to the horse on the statue at a NYC library was a bit demeaning. We have to understand that back when the statue was done, things and people were looked at a bit differently. 

Yes, Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt had their low points racially speaking, but they also had their high points in a society that has grown to understand the times in which they lived.

Should statues and reminders be removed? Yes, but only perhaps because the times of believing historical figures were flawless is upon us. We must take care to understand, respect and not overreact.

John Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Robert Kennedy, were not perfect human beings. Nowadays we have learned not to worship, but respect history and the “heroes” it produced.

• Remember when we were taught about the destruction of the Spanish Armada during the time of Queen Elizabeth the First? We were taught the nasty Spanish were destroyed with the help of an inconvenient storm and then by the British Navy. Well, it did not really happen that way. In fact the Spanish fleet was damaged, but not destroyed. In fact the British reprisal a year later was perhaps more of a disaster.

FAKE NEWS, promoted by Queen Elizabeth #1, changed history, and something we were still taught in the 20th Century.

• The British garnered much support worldwide when they ended the practice of slavery 30+ years ahead of the United States. What history forgets to mention widely, was that slave owners  within the British colonies were compensated for THEIR loss for each slave freed.

• The Irish were quasi-forced into indentured service. They were far from the reality of real slavery dumped upon and forced upon African Americans.

As in education and history, we must look closely and try to understand the times they occurred, or in which they were written.  You know that all-encompassing phrase: “Those who ignore history are doomed to repeat it”, well it has a counterpart. Those who believe all history are surely deemed to repeat it. Fake news is a reality, not just attributed to media, but convenient to those who need to survive politically.

The post We have a tendency to overreact appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

By Mike Stobbe
AP Medical Writer

NEW YORK (AP)  The flu vaccine did a disappointing job last winter in the U.S., and officials worry that might be a bad sign for the fall.

Flu vaccines had been about 60% effective against the type of flu that caused the most lab-confirmed illnesses last winter, but last season’s vaccine was only about half that good, according to study results reported Wednesday.

Against another major type of flu, vaccines have already been only around 30% effective.

The new results may be a sign of shrinking effectiveness against a number of strains, and “that’s concerning,“ said Brendan Flannery, who oversees the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s system for evaluating the vaccine.

The results come as health officials are gearing up for a critically important flu vaccination campaign, with a record 180 million doses being prepared. U.S. health officials fear a second wave of coronavirus infections, and reducing flu illnesses could help reduce patient traffic if COVID-19 causes doctors’ offices and hospitals to become overwhelmed.

CDC numbers indicate that last winter’s flu season caused somewhere in the neighborhood of 22 million medical visits, 575,000 hospitalizations and likely more than 40,000 deaths.

Vaccines against many infectious diseases aren’t considered successful unless they work at least 90% of the time, but flu is particularly challenging, partly because the virus can quickly change. Overall, flu vaccine effectiveness averages around 40%. Last season’s was 39% overall.

Last winter’s flu season featured two waves, each dominated by a different virus. Both flu bugs are considered dangerous to children, and it was a very bad flu season for kids.

Health officials reported 185 U.S. flu deaths in children this past flu season, the second highest total in a decade. And officials believe that because of reporting lags, additional cases may still come in.

A Type B flu strain ended up causing most early season illnesses and the bulk of illnesses in children over the entire winter, Flannery said. The vaccine was about 39% effective against that strain in children.

But the vaccine did an awful job against the Type A H1N1 strain that caused the second wave of illnesses. Protection was so low in kids ages 6 months to 17 years that – statistically speaking – it couldn’t be counted as working at all.

The vaccine’s performance was down in adults, too, and health officials don’t know exactly why. It may be due to changes in the virus, Flannery said.

Health officials have changed the components of what’s in the flu shot this year, in what they hope will be a better match against whatever flu strains circulate this fall and winter, he said.

The post Flu vaccine was disappointing vs. some strains last season appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

by MARTIN CRUTSINGER
AP Economics Writer

WASHINGTON (AP) American consumers increased their spending by a sharp 8.2% in May, partly erasing record plunges the previous two months, against the backdrop of an economy that’s likely shrinking by its steepest pace on record this quarter.

Last month’s rebound in consumer spending followed spending drops of 6.6% in March and 12.6% in April, when the viral pandemic shuttered businesses, forced millions of layoffs and sent the economy into a recession. Since then, many businesses have reopened, drawing consumers back into shops and restaurants and restoring some lost jobs.

Friday’s Commerce Department report showed that Americans stepped up their spending in May despite a 4.2% decline in personal income, which had soared by 10.8% the previous month. Income had jumped in April on the strength of billions of dollars in support through government payments in the form of unemployment aid as well as one-time $1,200 stimulus checks. In May, those stimulus checks were no longer counted as income for most people.

Besides whatever unemployment aid states are providing to the 30 million jobless Americans, the federal government is providing $600 a week in additional benefits. The federal money has pumped nearly $20 billion a week into the economy and enabled many of the unemployed to stay afloat. But the $600 a week in aid will expire after July, and Trump administration officials have said they oppose an extension.

Without the stimulus checks or an extension of unemployment aid, it’s unclear whether consumers will keep spending freely. In testimony to Congress last week, Federal Reserve Jerome Powell said he thought Congress should consider providing some form of extended unemployment benefits beyond their typical six-month period, on the assumption that joblessness will likely still be quite high by year’s end.

Last month’s rise in consumer spending also coincides with a sudden surge in coronavirus cases that’s forcing states and businesses to consider scaling back or even reversing the re-openings. If an escalation of the pandemic does force another round of widespread business shutdowns, fewer people would shop, travel, eat out or attend large events. That would reverse any rebound in spending and would further weaken the economy.

Consumer spending is closely watched because it accounts for about 70% of economic activity. Despite the increased spending in May, economists have estimated that the economy, as measured by the gross domestic product, is contracting at a roughly 30% annual rate in the April-June quarter after shrinking at a 5% percent rate in the January-March period. That would be, by far, the worst U.S. quarterly contraction since record-keeping began in 1948.

In February, the economy fell into a deep recession, according to the National Bureau of Economic Research, the association of economists that is the official arbiter of recessions in the United States. Most analysts expect the economy to rebound in the second half of this year before potentially regaining its pre-pandemic level in late 2021 at the earliest.

The Trump administration is predicting a relatively fast and robust economic rebound starting this summer. Most private economists are far less optimistic. And they warn that if the pandemic intensifies and forces a second round of business closures, it would set the job market and the economy even further back. The damage could be dire.

One hopeful sign, in the meantime, comes from data compiled from Chase Bank credit and debit cards. It shows that consumers have gradually but consistently increased their spending since the government distributed the stimulus checks in mid-April.

The post US consumer spending up 8.2%, partly erasing record plunge appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

June is National Dairy Month, and to celebrate, Wayne County Dairy Princess Kailey Kuhn of Marion, NY, visited one of the first babies born in June at Newark-Wayne Community Hospital. On behalf of the local dairy industry, Kuhn surprised the baby and her family with a basket of dairy-themed gifts.

“June is special because it is National Dairy Month, and we wanted to celebrate that by giving this baby, born in Wayne County, a gift. We are honoring our hardworking dairy farmers within Wayne County who work 365 days a year, taking care of the animals, land, and making us our nutritious dairy products,” said Kuhn.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s visit was a little different than those of previous Dairy Princesses. With strict visitor policies in place to keep patients safe, Kuhn worked with hospital staff to deliver the baby’s gift and a personal note without entering the hospital.

The baby, Tripp Michael Taylor, son of Sarah Taylor and Thomas Taylor of Geneva, was born on the morning of June 5, 2020, at Newark-Wayne Community Hospital.

The Dairy Princess program in New York State promotes the dairy industry and is funded by local dairy farmers and the American Dairy Association and Dairy Council.

The post County’s Dairy Princess visits baby at Newark Wayne during Dairy month appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

The Marion S. Whelan School of Practical Nursing (MSWSPN) celebrated the commencement of their 85th graduating class on June 18, 2020 during a WebEx virtual ceremony. A “Drive-Thru” celebration was held on June 19.  The class of eight students is now eligible to take their Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) exam. Graduates include Anna Bauer (Farmington), Gabrielle Daggett (Branchport), Raven Davis (Waterloo), Ashley Lawrence (Canandaigua), Kristy McNicholas (Geneva), Ryan Parmelee (Geneva), Alissa Plate (Waterloo) and Kathryn Sennett (Rushville).

Program Coordinator, Deanna Mills, MS, RN presented the diplomas and pins to the graduates during the “Drive-Thru” celebration as well as the special awards.

The Mary Breckinridge Award is given to the graduate practical nurse who has worked diligently to overcome obstacles in pursuit of their dream to enter the nursing profession. Gabrielle Daggett was presented with this award.

The Catherine J. Loudin Achievement Award is given to the graduate practical nurse most exemplifying the values of Finger Lakes Health during his or her educational training.  This year’s award goes to Alissa Plate.

The Alice Bergstresser Memorial Award is given to the graduate practical nurse who exemplifies the characteristics Alice portrayed in her everyday living; namely, determination, dedication and compassion. Anna Bauer was honored with this award.

Alissa Plate was recognized with the Fidelia Harmon Memorial Award for highest academic achievement in the nursing program.

Kathryn Sennett received the Marion S. Whelan Memorial Award, given to a graduate practical nurse who exemplifies the characteristics of dedication to nursing and self-discipline, which were such an important part of Miss Whelan’s life.

Raven Davis was awarded the MSWSPN Service Award given for outstanding service in medical/surgical nursing.

The William J. DiCicco Memorial Award honors the graduate practical nurse who exhibits the attributes that Bill demonstrated throughout his life:  devotion to family, a strong work ethic, the value of education and love of country. This year’s recipient was Ryan Parmelee.

The Practical Nursing Student Determination Award was established by Carl Belawske, a Finger Lakes Health employee who knows firsthand the perseverance needed to complete an educational program.  The recipient is a graduate who, despite challenges both in and out of the classroom, has overcome them with the determination and grit to excel.  We are proud to recognize the drive, passion and tenacity to succeed of Kristy McNicholas with this award.

Ashley Lawrence received the Advocate Award, given to the given to the graduate practical nurse who has shown the qualities most important to healthcare delivery; caring, quality, professionalism and passion.

Photos from the event can be viewed on Flickr and accessed from Finger Lakes Health’s website at www.flhealth.org.

The post Marion S. Whelen School of Practical Nursing holds Drive-Thru Commencement appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

NEW YORK (AP) So, where were we?

Mid-March, a spring training exhibition between the St. Louis Cardinals and Miami Marlins at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, Florida. Even before the final out, both sides had gotten the official word: Major League Baseball was shutting down immediately because of the coronavirus pandemic.

“It felt like the most meaningless baseball game in the history of the sport,” Cardinals infielder Matt Carpenter said.

So now, they’ll try again.

A skewed, 60-game schedule, rather than the full plate of 162, with opening day on July 23 or 24. A shortened, contorted season ordered by Commissioner Rob Manfred on Tuesday night after billionaire owners and multimillion-dollar players couldn’t come to a new economic agreement against the backdrop of the virus outbreak.

“What happens when we all get it?” Milwaukee pitcher Brett Anderson tweeted this week.

From the start, a sprint to the finish. Got to come out strong. Remember last year: The Washington Nationals began 27-33 and wound up hoisting the World Series trophy.

Perhaps it’s the perfect setup for outsiders like the San Diego Padres or Seattle Mariners to sneak into the championship chase.

Let’s not forget those Houston Astros, either. They were the biggest story in baseball when we last saw them, with fans taunting Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman and their accomplices following the trash can-banging, sign-stealing scandal that made national headlines over the winter.

Some things, chances are, won’t change when the games resume.

No minor leagues this year, tough luck there. The majors, meanwhile, give new meaning to short-season ball.

A look at what’s on deck:

ODDBALLS

An automatic runner on second base to begin all extra innings. Designated hitters in NL games. Pitchers with their own personal rosin bags.

This season will look like no other in baseball history, the price for trying to play amid a pandemic.

“So long National League. It was fun while it lasted,” Cardinals pitcher Adam Wainwright tweeted.

The extra-inning rule, that’s bound to bring new strategy, different stats to dissect and an innovative twist on the old game. It’ll be – aw, heck, who are we kidding? It will be Major League Baseball meets Central Park softball.

Just hoping that experiment doesn’t stick around in ‘21.

MARKING THE MOMENT

To date, Bruce Maxwell is the only major leaguer to take a knee during the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before a game. The backup Oakland catcher did that at the Coliseum in September 2017, following the lead of NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick.

Maxwell saw limited time with the A’s in 2018, played in Mexico last year and doesn’t have a job with a big league team this year.

Major leaguers have not, in general, been the first set of players in pro sports to speak out on issues of social injustice. We’ll see what stances they take on and off the field when games return.

FLY IT HIGH!

OK, say Francisco Lindor helps Cleveland win a most elusive World Series title. Or Christian Yelich leads the Brewers to their first flag. Fans will certainly argue: Is it a legitimate crown or more like a prize won during some European soccer tournament?

Kay Kenealy, a 59-year-old from Waukesha, Wisconsin, who has a 20-game ticket package to Brewers games, took a meaty swing at the debate.

“The season’s the season. It’s kind of like with the Bucks in the running for an NBA championship. A championship’s a championship,” she said. “If the season’s a month long, you play for that month.”

“Whether it be the Brewers or the A’s or someone like that that wins the World Series, I don’t think that requires an asterisk. I think everybody for the next 100 years is going to know that this was a pandemic year.”

THE BIG FOUR-OH-OH

The huge stat question: Could someone hit .400 in this shortened season?

NL MVP Cody Bellinger got off to a scorching start last year, batting .376 after the Dodgers’ 60th game. He finished at .305.

Chipper Jones was the most recent to top .400 through 60 – he was at .409 in 2008. Larry Walker (.417) and Tony Gwynn (.403) both started fast in 1997, the Elias Sports Bureau said.

Fewer games, a lot of walks, a couple of infield knocks, yep, it’s possible. But there’s a reason Ted Williams remains the last player to hit the hallowed mark in a full season, batting .406 in 1941 (always splendid, he was at .407 after 60).

A CAN OF CORN

A game in the “Field of Dreams” cornfield this summer is still on – for now. MLB did a great job building a diamond next to the movie site near Dyersville, Iowa, for a game on Aug. 13, but fans can’t come. The Yankees and White Sox were set to play – because of scheduling, at least one of those teams would have to change. Most likely, with the game closer to Chicago, the White Sox would play someone from a Central Division.

Matchups in London, Mexico City and Puerto Rico already have been scrapped. No official word yet on the All-Star Game, set for July 14 at Dodger Stadium.

OUCH

All-Star aces Chris Sale, Luis Severino and Noah Syndergaard are out while rehabbing from Tommy John surgery.

But these extra months might’ve given Aaron Judge, Justin Verlander, Cole Hamels and more time to fully recover. Who knows, maybe even Yoenis Cespedes has healed up.

And additional time off could’ve given Shohei Ohtani a cushion to build up his arm strength. Sure is neat having a two-way star to track in the majors.

WATCH THIS

So your family takes a road trip each summer, hitting a new ballpark every time. You want to extend your 11-year streak, but there aren’t any tickets for sale. Don’t fret, just get creative.

Oracle Park in San Francisco provides a tremendous opportunity, for free. Fans can gather behind the right field wall, look through a fence and see the Giants. And if a home run sails out that way, it’s fun to watch kayakers scramble for a Splash Shot souvenir.

The Roberto Clemente Bridge by PNC Park is a popular watching spot, the rooftops outside Wrigley Field are classic and a hotel in Toronto offers rooms with a terrific view from the outfield.

Hot dogs, however, are not included.

The post MLB tries again with short season, skewed rules appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

There will be college-level baseball in the area this summer.

Bob Ohmann, owner of the Geneva Red Wings and former owner of the Newark Pilots has announced the Geneva Snow Cats will play ball at McDonough Park as part of the eight-team, Interstate Intercollegiate Baseball League.

“We’re cautiously optimistic that this will work, but we are also very excited to give these young men their first opportunity to play college-level baseball in 2020,” Ohmann told The Times Wednesday night. “We’re gonna meet all the guidelines set forth and give everybody local baseball this summer.”

The Snow Cats will start play July 6th in Rochester, and will host their first game July 11. There will be limited seating for fans in accordance with social distance guidelines set forth by New York State, so fans must buy tickets in advance to assure themselves a seat at a game.

Players and coaches will be required to wear masks in the dugout, and will adhere to social distancing when not in the field.

The teams are all comprised of players mostly from western and upstate New York natives and college students.

The Snow Cats will be managed by Plattsburgh State coach, Sam Quinn Loeb, who will be assisted by Texas Rangers scout Dave Herbst.

Pitchers:

Garrett Bell, RHP, Ithaca College

Cooper Crunick, RHP, Binghamton

Liam Devine, RHP, St. Bonaventure

AJ Garland, LHP, Alfred State

Charlie Hammel, RHP, Ithaca

Nate Hampson, LHP, Monroe Community College

Jack Leahy, LHP, RIT

Ron Loomis, RHP, SUNY Oswego

Dan Munn, RHP, Hilbert College

Rojo Prarie, RHP, William and Mary

Mike Sculi, Monroe Community College, LHP/OF

Buzz Shirley, Ithaca College, LHP/1B

Catchers:

Gil Merod, Ithaca College

Cam Vozel, Gannon University

Infielders and Outfielders:

David Bermudez, Rider

Ryan Blackwell, RIT

James Cronin, St. Lawrence University

Brandon Meyers, St. Bonaventure

Mark Trotta, William and Mary

Lachlan Charles, Cornell University

Matt Smith, Ithaca College

The post Introducing the Geneva Snow Cats appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.

When the driver pulled into Absolute Auto on Walworth/Marion Road in the Town of Walworth on Wednesday morning,  questions abound.

The driver, Jason M. Peck, age 26, of 14 Shelter Creek Lane in Fairport told  Absolute Auto that he hit a deer. Unexplained why was there was barn wood sticking out of the vehicle, it had damage on the roof and rear left corner panel. Also, Peck appeared to be highly intoxicated.

State Troopers responded and Peck was subsequently arrested for DWI/BAC and Aggravated DWI with a blood alcohol level of .20%.

Ironically, Macedon Police and the Macedon Fire Department responded to a report of a barn being damaged by a hit and run driver after the trooper arrested Peck.

A trail-cam on the farmer’s property caught a partial picture and description of the vehicle that failed to stop at the intersection of Eddy and Walworth Road. The vehicle travelled 200 feet of the roadway, plowed through the barn door, struck a main beam, knocking off the barn from its foundation. The driver then fled the scene.

The vehicle was identified as Peck’s and additional charges are pending. He was issued appearance tickets for Walworth Town Court on August 5 and released to a third party.

The post Driver hits barn, drives off, charged with DWI appeared first on The Times of Wayne County - Waynetimes.com.