12/30/2025
CJ Country Local News for Tues, December 30
With the major winter storm bringing lake effect snow and high winds across Upstate New York, Governor Hochul expanded New York's state of emergency. Residents are urged to avoid travel and telecommute where possible, especially in counties like Erie and Wyoming, where non-essential state employees were directed to stay home today. Road closures and tractor-trailer bans remain in effect. Some areas could receive feet of snow by Wednesday night, along with strong winds that could cause power outages and dangerous driving. Wyoming and Genesee Counties have a No Unnecessary Travel Advisory due to blizzard conditions, with poor visibility and slippery roads. Officials also warn of hazardous weather, including high winds and downed trees, advising motorists to be cautious and treat dark traffic signals as four-way stops.
New York State has reported a record number of flu cases, with 71,123 positive cases recorded in a single week, marking the highest number ever for the state. Health officials are warning that this flu season is particularly severe, driven by the H3N2 strain, and hospitalizations have already exceeded last year's peak. The state’s Department of Health Commissioner, Dr. James McDonald, expects the situation to worsen before it improves, especially after holiday gatherings may have contributed to spreading the virus. Health professionals are urging everyone to get vaccinated, noting that even if the flu vaccine doesn't perfectly match the circulating strain, it can still reduce the severity and duration of illness. Additionally, people are advised to practice good hygiene and stay home if sick.
A Dansville woman is accused of filing false documents with the Steuben County Department of Social Services. According to the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office, 35yo Autumn Kosmowski was arrested following an investigation into an incident of welfare fraud that took place from July to October. During this time, officials say she filed false documents with social services and received over $2,300 that she wasn’t eligible for. Kosmowski is charged with the felonies of offering a false instrument for filing, falsifying business records, welfare fraud, and grand larceny. She is scheduled to answer the charges in court at a later date.
The results of a toll enforcement crackdown on the New York State Thruway have been released. New York State Police Troop T, in collaboration with the Thruway Authority, conducted four operations targeting drivers who repeatedly evade tolls or use fraudulent license plates, seizing 170 vehicles and issuing over 1,000 tickets. Of the impounded vehicles, 30 had suspended registrations and were linked to nearly $82,000 in unpaid tolls and fees. Approximately $38,000, or 46% of the total owed, has been recovered from 16 vehicle owners. Governor Hochul says that these initiatives help make driving fairer for all New Yorkers and support funding for essential infrastructure improvements.
Several municipalities in Wyoming County have come together to form a new joint fire district. The Batavia Daily News reports that the Eastside Fire Protection District has been established to serve the towns of Castile and Gainesville, along with the villages of Castile, Gainesville, and Silver Springs. The decision follows ongoing staffing shortages in volunteer fire departments and aims to address issues like recruitment difficulties and high administrative costs. While the three fire departments will remain separate, the district’s consolidation is expected to improve emergency response and grant funding opportunities. The new district will also introduce a fire tax for village residents, though it is hoped this will offset the cost of fire contracts. The consolidation reflects a statewide trend of regionalizing fire services due to declining volunteer numbers and the growing demands on these departments. This new joint fire district will become effective June 1st.
With the snowy weather State Police want drivers to take precautions to stay safe while driving - especially in the snow. They say to plan ahead, leave a few minutes early to give yourself enough time to get to where you need to go safely and to go slow. Many accidents happen because drivers are going too fast for the road conditions. Police say if you can, travel during the day instead of the night. Also remember it's against the law to use your cell phone or any other electronic device while behind the wheel.
Snowmobilers in New York are being reminded to prioritize safety while enjoying the state's snowmobiling opportunities. The State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation identifies excessive speed and operator intoxication as the top causes of injury. Key safety tips include riding responsibly, staying on marked trails, never riding under the influence, and ensuring the snowmobile is in good condition. Riders should always wear a DOT-approved helmet, ride with a buddy, and inform someone of their route and return time. Additionally, snowmobilers are encouraged to take a safety course, and youth ages 10-17 must have a safety certificate to operate solo on state trails.
Falling asleep with the TV on could disrupt your sleep. Health experts say some people feel it’s beneficial to have the TV on as it helps them fall asleep. However, while that may be beneficial in the moment, being exposed to blue light from your TV or phone can ultimately disrupt your quality of sleep. Research shows blue light can prevent the body from releasing melatonin, which plays a crucial role in regulating your sleep-wake cycle. And if you’re not getting good sleep, it can affect both your mental and physical health. On top of that, the content you watch could impact your dreams, provoking anxiety. Instead of watching something before bed, health officials suggest that you could try reading, journaling, meditating or listening to calming music. You could also use a sound machine or have a fan going for background noise.
If you’re interested in Beekeeping, classes are being held again this year. The Western New York Honey Producers are offering two beginner beekeeping classes. The classes will allow participants to learn more about honey bees or simply talk about them. The organization also has mentors available to guide beginners or those looking to enhance their beekeeping knowledge. For information and to register, go to https://wnyhpi.org.
