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News Update for Apr., 30, 2013

Hendrickson says he's "not surprised" that Edwards decided not to run for a third-term...

The chairman of the Chautauqua County Republican Committee says he was "not really surprised" by County Executive Greg Edwards' decision to not run for re-election.  West Ellicott's Al Hendrickson says he had spoken with Edwards five weeks ago about running for a third-term.  He says Edwards would not commit to running for another term... but, adds he didn't say no until just recently.  Hendrickson says he wishes Edwards had made his final decision sooner.  He says he was doubtful Edwards would run... and, was "a little taken aback" that the incumbant waited so long to tell him what he was going to do.  Hendrickson says that leaves little time for the GOP to find a candidate... and, make it's endorsements.  In fact... county Republicans will meet on May 30 to decide on candidates for the November elections.  As for a successor to Edwards on the ballot... Hendrickson says there is interest.  In fact... there are a three potential candidates he likes that Republicans have to chose from.  He's not putting their names out yet because the GOP still has an interview process to go through before they, and the candidate makes a decision.  Hendrickson says he's had preliminary discussions with the trio of possible candidates.  He says once the GOP Committee formally interviews all three... a decision will then be made.


Body found in Warren County's Conewango Creek that of missing North Warren man...

The search for a missing Scoutmaster and pastor near Warren, PA is over.  The Warren Times-Observer reports that dentral records have confirmed that the body found late Sunday morning in the Conewango Creek was that of 69 year-old Dan Wolboldt of North Warren.  The confirmation was made during an autopsy Monday.  Wolboldt had been reported missing March 23.  He was last seen burning papers in his backyard near the creek.  A forensic pathologist in the Erie County coroner's office conducted the forensic dentistry exam.  Warren County Coroner Jerry Borden says -- "the forensic dentistry is a perfect match."  Borden says drowning was the cause of death.  Efforts to reach Warren Couinty District Attorney Ross Mckiernan for comment were unsuccessful.


Silver Creek man hurt in motorcycle crash in Hanover...

A north county man suffered a serious injury when his motorcycle tipped over on a curve... and, crashed in the town of Hanover Monday night.  Sheriff's officers say 38 year-old David Coia, Jr. of Silver Creek was riding his two-wheeler on Beebe Road just before 7 p.m. when he failed to negotiate a curve.  Deputies say the motorcycle tipped... and, slid across the roadway before coming to rest on the shoulder.  Coia was initially taken to Lakeshore Hospital in Irving... then flown to the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo.  A hospital spokeswoman says he was treated for his injuries... and, released late Monday night.


Schumer says FBI should have re-interviewed Marathon Bomber...

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer is questioning why the FBI didn't re-interview the older brother suspected in the Boston Marathon bombing when he returned from Russia and posted ``inflammatory'' comments on the Internet.  Schumer tells The Associated Press he's a big supporter of the FBI, which has foiled numerous terrorism attempts.  But... he says something went wrong this time.  Schumer says Monday he'll pursue an answer as a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee.  The committee oversees the FBI.  He says the FBI should have talked again with 26-year-old Tamerlan Tsarnaev when he returned from a six-month stay in Russia and then posted the remarks.  Tsarnaev died in a gun fight.  His younger brother, Dzhokhar is in custody.


Cuomo not talking about running for Presidential nomiation...

Governor Andrew Cuomo says he's not talking about running for the Democratic nomination for president in 2016... and, he's not waiting to see if Hillary Clinton runs.  Cuomo said Monday on public radio's ``Capitol Pressroom'' there is ``no truth'' to speculation that he is talking about presidential politics and strategy.  Cuomo says he's focused on his 2014 run for a second term as governor.  He has never ruled out a run for president.  Clinton is often touted as a potential 2016 contender.  Cuomo has a campaign fund of more than 20-million dollars... and, led New York's effort in legalizing same-sex marriage in 2011.  This year... he pushed through the nation's first gun-control law after the Newtown, Connecticut tragedy.  His poll numbers have recently fallen from record highs.


 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines

 

The Jamestown Fire Department will soon be able to make the first major upgrade to it's vehicle fleet in several years.  That after the city council okayed receiving a 464-thousand dollar federal grant... and, okayed another 51-thousand dollars in local money for a new pumper truck and ambulance.  The Assistance to Firefighters grant comes from the the Federal Emergency Management Agency... and, will be used to replace a 33 year-old pumper truck.  Harvey says now the real work begins because they have to draw up vehicle specifications. Harvey says that's the same situtation for the ambulance... which will replace a 20 year-old model.  He says they still have a lot of research to do... and, they only have a year to put the vehicles out to bid... award the bid... and, get the vehicles.  The just over 51-thousand dollars is the 10-percent match the city has to put up to receive the grant.  The money will come from the city's contingency account.  Both votes last night were unanimous.

 

The City Council also approved two resolutions last night that will move construction forward on part of the northside of the Chadakoin Riverwalk project.  Council President Greg Rabb says one resolution was to accept a 25-foot wide strip of land from the Blackstone-Ney Ultrasonics building in Brooklyn Square to Panzarella Point... along with a 19-thousand dollar grant from the Gebbie Foundation.  The foundation had recently puchased the property... and, the grant will be used to buy the materials needed.  Rabb says it's a big step. City officials say once the northside walk-way is completed... both sides of the river will be connected by a pedestrian bridge near Panzarella Point -- which is in the river -- behind the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities.  Rabb says the southside portion -- part of which is behind the former Evan's Skateland location -- is pretty much completed.  The city... along with a number of civic groups... have been working the past few years on completing the Chadakoin Riverwalk project. 

 

The search for Dan Wolboldt is over. The Warren Times Observer reports that A day after a volunteer search party recovered a body from the Conewango Creek, officials made a positive identification of the body on Monday through forensic dentistry. Warren County Coroner Jerry Borden confirmed the identity of the body as Wolboldt, 69, of North Warren, who had been reported missing March 23. Dr. Eric Vey, forensic pathologist in the Erie County coroner's office, conducted the forensic examination. "The forensic dentistry is a perfect match," Borden said Monday. He said drowning was the cause of death. Media One News tried to reach D-A Ross Mckiernan for comment but were unsuccessful.

 

U-S Senator Chuck Schumer is questioning why the FBI didn't re-interview the older brother suspected in the Boston Marathon bombing when he returned from Russia and posted ``inflammatory'' comments on the Internet.  Schumer tells The Associated Press he's a big supporter of the FBI, which has foiled numerous terrorism attempts.  But... he says something went wrong this time.  Schumer says Monday he'll pursue an answer as a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee.  The committee oversees the FBI.  He says the FBI should have talked again with 26-year-old Tamerlan Tsarnaev (TAM'-ehr-lun Sahr-NEYE'-ehv) when he returned from a six-month stay in Russia and then posted the remarks.  Tsarnaev died in a gun fight.  His younger brother, Dzhokhar (joh-HAHR') is in custody.

 

Chautauqua County Executive Greg Edwards' decision to NOT run for a third-term "caught a lot of people by surprise" --  including local Congressman Tom Reed.  During his weekly telephone news conference Monday... Reed said he did not anticipate last Friday's announcement.  The Corning Republican... whose only worked with Edwards for several months... says he's found the local leader to be a "top notch" and "quality" public servant.  Edwards decision immediately touched off speculation that he may run for state-wide office.  He was GOP Gubernatorial candidate Carl Paladino's running mate nearly three years ago.  However... while Reed says Edwards would do an excellent job at whatever he might do... it's the Busti Republican's choice. In recent week's... Edwards' name has come up as a possible Gubernatorial candidate next year.  His name was mentioned by State GOP Chairman Edward Cox on a state-wide Cable TV program.  Reed... though... emphasizes the choice to run is for Edwards... and, his family... to make.  We tried to reach Chautauqua County Republican Committee Chairman Al Hendrickson yesterday morning for comment on Edwards' decision.  However... Hendrickson is not available for comment Monday.  We hope to reach him later today.

 

While public schools saw a significant increase in state aid in the new 2013-2014 budget... local community colleges saw a small increase.  However... Jamestown Community College President Dr. Greg DeCinque says the lag in aid "was not as bad as it could have been."  DeCinque says New York Governor Andrew Cuomo proposed no increase in what's called "base aid... " which is handed out per student.  However... he says the state legislature did increase that... but, by nowhere near what they needed. DeCinque says community colleges needed 350-dollars per student to get back to where the state should be.  However... he says JCC has been able to weather the storm through record enrollments in recent years.  That's brought in more money -- per student -- then they had been getting.  However... enrollment has declined the past couple of years because of a decline in enrollment from local high schools.  With that... DeCinque says they've been working to recruit more out of state... and "out-of-area" students.... especially because there is room in their residence halls.

News Update for Mon., Apr. 29, 2013

Reed says Edwards announcement he won't run for re-election caught many "by surprise..."

Chautauqua County Executive Greg Edwards' announcement that he would not seek re-election "caught a lot of people by surprise."  That from local Congressman Tom Reed... who says he did not anticipate the sudden decision by his fellow Republican.  While he's just worked with Edwards for several months since Chautauqua County was put back into the Southern Tier District by Congressional reapportionment... Reed has found Edwards to be a "top notch" and "quality" public servant.  He adds he's done a great job for the people of Chautauqua County, and will do well in whatever future endeavors he undertakes.  Reed was asked if he felt Edwards would make a good candidate for state-wide office.  Edwards' name has come up as a possible Gubernatorial candidate next year.  The county's top-elected official was maverick Republican Carl Paladino's running mate for Lieutenant Governor nearly three years ago.  Reed says Edwards is in public office for "the right reasons..." and, if he choses to go down that path... he will do well.  The Corning Republican adds that if Edwards decides to run state-wide... he will support him.  But... he emphasizes Edwards -- and his family -- have to make that decision.
----
We tried to reach Chautauqua County Republican Committee Chairman Al Hendrickson Monday morning for comment on Edwards' decision not to run for a third-term.  However... Hendrickson is not available for comment.  We hope to reach him later.


Co. Democrat Committee Chair says they are delaying an announcement on their executive candidate following Edwards' announcement...

Chautauqua County Democrats have decided to delay announcing a candidate for County Executive.  County Democratic Party Chairman Norm Green says last week's announcement by incumbent Republican Greg Edwards to not seek a third-term was one of the factors in deciding to wait another two weeks to make their announcement.  He says the party also needs to come together... and, decide on a candidate to run against "a challenger" as opposed to an incumbant.  Green says a search committee has been looking for candidates since January... and, they had recently decided on a single candidate.  That person was expected to announce this week... but, he says they expect an announcment within the next couple of weeks about a person's candidacy.  Green says they are not ruling out the person who was ready to announce... but, they also want to hear from all prospective candidates before reaching a final decision and making an announcement.


Cuomo says he's not talking about running for Democratic nod to run for President in 2016...

Governor Andrew Cuomo says he's not talking about running for the Democratic nomination for president in 2016... and, he's not waiting to see if Hillary Clinton runs.  Cuomo said Monday on public radio's ``Capitol Pressroom'' there is ``no truth'' to speculation that he is talking about presidential politics and strategy.  Cuomo says he's focused on his 2014 run for a second term as governor.  He has never ruled out a run for president.  Clinton is often touted as a potential 2016 contender.  Cuomo has a campaign fund of more than $20-million... and, led New York's effort in legalizing same-sex marriage in 2011.  This year... he pushed through the nation's first gun-control law after the Newtown, Connecticut tragedy.  His poll numbers have recently fallen from record highs.

 


 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines

 

A body was discovered by a voluntary search group and recovered Sunday from Conewango Creek above Fifth Avenue in Warren, Pennsylvania according to  District Attorney Ross McKeirnan. The Post Journal reports that No confirmation as to identification or cause of death has been made a this time. Organizers of the search reported that the body was found at 10:47 a.m. Sunday. An autopsy has been scheduled for today. The search was organized as an effort to locate the body of the Reverend Dan Wolboldt. Wolboldt is Scoutmaster of North Warren Boy Scout Troop 13 and pastor at both the Interfaith Chapel on the grounds of Warren State Hospital and Emanuel United Church of Christ in Warren, was reported missing on the morning of March 23. Officials did not confirm the identity of the body. More information will be released when confirmed.

 

He won't face the grind of a re-election campaign... but, the final eight-months of his second, and final term in office will be anything but easy for Chautauqua County Executive Greg Edwards.  Edwards stunned many late last week by making an early announcment that he won't seek a third-term as the county's top elected official.  The Busti Republican says it was "time" for him to move on to something else.  However... he didn't say what that something else was.  He did talk... however... about the many challenges still ahead in 2013.  One was in the north county... another in the south. The idea of public sewers around the lake has been discussed and debated for many years.  Edwards says he will also continuing pushing for the controversial sale of the Chautauqua County Home in Dunkirk.  That effort has come up just short of the needed votes in the legislature twice.  Howeve... he says he remains confident they'll find a buyer... and, that the necessary votes will eventually be there.  Also in the north county... Edwards has talked about completion of the Millinium Parkway projects.

 

Improperly extinguished... or discarded smoking materials are being blamed for triggering a weekend house fire in a mobile home in the town of Portland that's left three people temporarily homeless.  However... Sheriff's Department fire investigators say the Brocton-area family of three escaped safely late last Friday night from the home on Lot 69 at 57-72 Ellicott Road.  Few details have been released on the blaze... but, officials say it broke out just before 10 PM.  The family is being assisted by the local chapter of the American Red Cross.  Investigators say they found the fire started on the front steps in an enclosed entryway.  The fire has been ruled accidental.

 

Two of the four men accused of murdering a town of Carroll couple... then setting their house on fire to try and cover up the crime... are charged with first-degree murder.  There has been some question as to why the other two were not.  Chautauqua County District Attorney David Foley says that's because 18 year-olds Rickey Knickerbocker and Steven Todd aren't old enough to be charged with that crime.  Otherwise... Foley says the 11-count indictment applies to them... and, 34 year-old David Coggins... and, 21 year-old Joshua McCormick.  He says it took a lot of work to ultimately bring the case to the county Grand Jury. If convicted of first degree murder... Coggins and McCormick could face life without parole.  Since a Court of Appeals case in 2004... New York State has NOT had a death penalty statute.  Coggins... McCormick... Todd... and, Knickerbocker all face two counts of second-degree Murder... and, two counts of second-degree Intentional murder in the deaths of 66 year-old Gordon, and 59 year-old Joyce Skinner.  Bail for the four ranges from 1.5-million to 2.5-million dollars.

 

Jamestown police are asking for the public's help in finding whoever stabbed a city man during a disturbance on the city's eastside which led to an altercation.  City officers were called to 627 East Second Street just before 1 PM Friday on the report of a stabbing... and, found it was not a random act.  Police say the victim was rushed to WCA Hospital for emergency surgery.  They add the man is apparently not in a life-threatening situation at this point.  However... they are still looking for the suspect.  They're asking any witnesses to come forward.  If you have any information on the incident... you're asked to call city police at 483-7537... or the JPD Anonymous Tip-line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

 

A conservative group wants a ruling on whether Governor Andrew Cuomo's girlfriend... Food Network TV star Sandra Lee... should disclose financial information as if she's the governor's wife.  New Yorkers for Constitutional Freedoms, a religious-based lobbying group, asked the Joint Commission on Public Ethics for the ruling.  The request late this week comes after The Associated Press reported the commission authorized Lee to use the state aircraft with Cuomo on official business.  It deemed her a ``domestic partner'' in the ``first family.''  Cuomo and Lee live in Westchester County.  The commission doesn't require Lee to file financial data intended to flag potential conflicts of interest involving elected officials.  The commission says the Legislature would have to change any requirement.  Cuomo declined comment.  The same group unsuccessfully sued to overturn the legalization of gay marriage championed by Cuomo.

 

Authorities in Pennsylvania say a suspect is being held in the stabbing deaths of a man and woman found at a mobile home near the Warren County line.  Coroner Norman Wimer of Forest County says 42-year-old Marcelle Edwards of Tionesta and 43-year-old Donald Shay of Leechburg were found early last Saturday.  Wimer says Shay was found just outside the door and Edwards, who lived at the Tionesta mobile home, was found inside.  He says both died of what appeared to be multiple stab wounds and were pronounced dead at the scene.  State police said a 42-year-old man described as a former boyfriend of the woman was taken into custody later Saturday.  Wimer said there had been an ongoing dispute between him and the victims.  State police are investigating. No charges were immediately announced.

News Update for Sun., Apr. 28, 2013

Edwards says he's not seeking re-election to a third term... but, says seeking state-wide office is not what he's looking at right now...

The man who has served as Chautauqua County's top-elected official for just over seven years will not be seeking another term in office.  County Executive Greg Edwards made the stunning announcement from his office in Mayville Friday afternoon.  He says he made the decision after spending the past month talking about the matter with family... friends and political allies.  Edwards adds that he received a "tremendous amount of encouragement" to run again... but, says to "everything there is a season."  He says he's been "deeply humbled by this outpouring of support and encouragement."  But, he says after much reflection and discussion with his family... he won't be running again.  Edwards says there were several factors that played into his decision... but, says most of all... he never intented to make politics - quote -- "my career."  About three years ago... Edwards ran on GOP Gubernatorial candidate Carl Paladino's ticket for Lieutenant Governor.  While that was unsuccessful... it got Edwards' name recognition around the state.  However... he does NOT intent to run for state office.  Edwards also emphasized that while there was nothing holding him back from running for a third-term... the timing is right for him to move on..  He said he wanted to make the announcement now to allow time for members of his leadership team to look for work outside county government if they wish... and, for the county's Republican Committee to find a candidate for the upcoming election.


Suspects in town of Carroll homicide arraigned on murder charges, plead not guilty...

The four men accused of killing a town of Carroll couple earlier this month were arraigned yesterday on multiple-charges in Chautauqua County Court.  District Attorney David Foley says the defendants... 34 year-old David Coggins...  21-year-old Joshua McCormick, and 18 year-olds Rickey Knickerbocker, and Steven Todd... were brought before Judge John Ward separately.  Foley says they were arraigned on an 11-count indictment.  However... he adds that only Coggins and McCormick were indicted for first-degree murder.  Foley says most of the other charges were also "very serious."  They include two counts of second-degree Murder... and, second-degree Intentional Murder... and one-count of first-degree Arson.  Bail for Coggins was set at $2.5-million... $2-million for McCormick... and, $1.5-million for both Knickerbocker and Todd.  All four are accused of murdering 66 year-old Gordon... and, 59 year-old Joyce Skinner at their Wheeler Hill Road home the morning of April 17.


One person hospitalized... another sought... in connection with stabbing in Jamestown...

Jamestown police are asking for the public's help in finding whoever stabbed a city man during a disturbance on the city's eastside which led to an altercation.  City officers were called to 627 East Second St. just before 1 p.m. Friday on the report of a stabbing... and, found it was not a random act.  Police say the victim was rushed to WCA Hospital for emergency surgery.  They add the man is apparently not in a life-threatening situation at this point.  However... they are still looking for the suspect.  They're asking any witnesses to come forward.  If you have any information on the incident... you're asked to call city police at 483-7537... or the JPD Anonymous Tip-line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.


Dunkirk man jailed for allegedly dealing "Crack" Cocaine in north county city...

A Dunkirk man is jailed for allegedly selling "crack" cocaine to undercover police officers in the north county city over the past month.  Agents with the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force say 43 year-old Aaron Davis of 34 West Fourth St. was taken into custody in Buffalo after a warrant had been issued for his arrest.  Task Force agents say Davis had been indicted by the Chautauqua Grand Jury on multiple charges in the case.  He's being held... pending arraignment on several counts of third-degree criminal possession... and, sale of a controlled substance.  Task Force officials say Davis was turned over to Dunkirk Police... and, taken to the county jail pending arraignment.  Anyone with information on any narcotics-related activity in their community is asked to call local police... or the Task Force at 1-800-344-8702.


 

News alert for Fri., Apr. 26, 2013!!

**(News alert!) Edwards won't seek a third-term as County Executive...

After a month of consulting with family, friends and political allies... Chautauqua County Executive Greg Edwards has announced he won't be running for a third-term this November.  Edwards made the stunning revelation from his office in Mayville this afternoon.  He says a number of factors played into his decision... including the fact he never got into politics looking to make "a career" out of it.  Edwards said he wanted to make the announcement now to allow time for his key cabinet people to look for work outside county government if they want, and for the county's Republican Committee to find a candidate for the upcoming election.

News alert for Fri., Apr. 26, 2013

(**Update)Foley says four accused in Carroll double-homicide charged with 11 counts; two face first-degree murder charges...

The four men accused of killing a town of Carroll couple the morning of April 17 have been arraigned on multiple-charges in Chautauqua County Court.  District Attorney David Foley says the defendants... 34 year-old David Coggins...  21-year-old Joshua McCormick, and 18 year-olds Rickey Knickerbocker, and Steven Todd... were brought before the judge separately.  Coggins and McCormick face ALL 11 counts in the indictment... including first-degree murder.  They and Knickerbocher and Todd also face second-degree Intentional Murder counts.  The four are accused of killing 66 year-old Gordon, and 59 year-old Joyce Skinner. (with help from WDOE Radio)

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines

 

A preliminary hearing scheduled for Thursday for the four men accused of murdering a town of Carroll couple last week was cancelled.  But... District Attorney David Foley says a new court date has been set for this morning in the case.  Contacted late Thursday... Foley would not comment on the nature of the court appearance... but, he does say the four did NOT waive their preliminary hearing.  Today's appearance will be in county court at 9:30 AM.  66 year-old Gordon... and, 59 year-old Joyce Skinner were found dead in their Wheeler Hill Road home back on April 17th.  Sheriff Joe Gerace says the four suspects were arrested early the next morning in Elmira.  They have been identified as 34-year-old David Coggins... 21 year-old Joshua McCormick... and, 18-year-olds Ricky Knickerbocker, and, Steven Todd.  All four have been preliminarily charged with two counts each of second-degree murder.

 

A group of concerned residents -- and, friends of a missing Scoutmaster -- will take part in a land and water search for Dan Wolboldt this Sunday in Warren County.  The 67 year-old Wolboldt was burning some paper just behind his home... along Conewango Creek... last March 30th when he went missing.  Friend and fellow Boy Scout leader "Buster" Godden (Gah-DIN) says they already have 30 people signed up.  The Land phase begins at 9 AM at the Dining Pavillion at Camp Olmstead near Scandia... while the water phase begins -- same time -- at the Conewango Creek in North Warren. Godden says the water search will be done in three sections.  The first is the area from North Warren to Point Park. Godden says they'll use motorboats in that area.  He says they'd like to get 30 more people for the search... and, to take part... you must be 18 years of age.  Godden adds if you're part of the water search... you must have a PFD... and, a whistle.  For more information... he says contact the Boy Scout Council in Warren.

 

Chautauqua County lawmakers began the process Wednesday night of renewing the county's added half-a-percent sales tax.  The legislature approved a home rule request to the state to keep the overall tax at 7.5-percent, 22-to-3.  Majority Leader Larry Barmore supported the measure... saying it's critical to retain the extra point-5 percent to maintain county operations.  Barmore generally opposes increased taxes... but, adds that if the half-a-percent was NOT renewed for another two years... it would result in a huge property tax increase. Barmore says counties can automatically charge a 7-percent tax... with four-percent going to the state... and, three-percent to the counties.  Half of that goes to local cities, towns and villages.  Barmore adds that 30-percent of the added half-a-percent goes to local municipalities.  Jamestown Democrat Lori Cornell cast one of the "no" votes.  She says she's consistantly voted against that... and, other tax increases. Barmore says the city of Jamestown gets an additional 530-thousand dollars a year from the added half-a-percent... and, would likely have to increase property taxes if that wasn't available.  Cornell argues the cost of government needs to be cut... and, made more efficient... and, more needs to be done to stimulate the economy.

 

A state-funded nonprofit addiction treatment group has been accused of paying for excessive executive perks in a report that also says an employee bought Walmart gift cards for alcohol and cigarettes.  The report released Wednesday by New York Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli's office says Phoenix Houses of New York provided 223-thousand dollars worth of inappropriate perks, including bonuses and cars for executives, while under contract with the state.  During the period examined, the organization received 8.5-million dollars from the state Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services to provide gambling and substance abuse services.  Investigators say one employee made 4-thousand dollars in inappropriate purchases of Walmart gift cards to buy alcohol, cigarettes and other items and then attempted to conceal the purchases by submitting invalid receipts.  A Phoenix House spokeswoman declined comment until she could review the report.

 

Two Jamestown-area men are this year's "Co-Volunteers of the Year" at WCA Hospital.  Retirees Robert Scott and Robert Gray were honored... along with other volunteers... during the hospital's annual Volunteer Recognition and Awards Luncheon yesterday.  Scott and Gray often volunteer together for work... and, both accumulated the most hours in 2012.  Scott says they've both been at it about 11 years... and, peform their volunteer work in many parts of the hospital. Gray ended up with the most hours volunteered in 2012 with 882.... while Scott was second with 780.  Scott says they help move patients for testing or surgery... or back to their rooms.  He says they like to joke with them to help ease their situation for them.  Scott says both he and Gray volunteer mostly three... or sometimes four days a week at WCA.  Scott is retired from  Phillips Lighting and Warren County Government... while Grey worked 43 years at MRC Bearings.

 

News Update for Thurs., Apr. 25, 2013

Preliminary Court Hearing for suspects in Carroll Homicides cancelled; next court appearance set for Friday...

A preliminary hearing for the four men accused of murdering a town of Carroll couple last week has been cancelled... but, a new court date has been set in the case.  Chautauqua County District Attorney David Foley would only say the four suspects had not waived their hearing.... and, that they have another court date has been scheduled for county court at 9:30 a.m. Friday.  Otherwise, he declined comment.  66 year-old Gordon... and, 59 year-old Joyce Skinner were found dead in their Wheeler Hill Road home a week ago Wed., April 17.  Sheriff Joe Gerace says the four suspects were arrested early the next morning in Elmira.  They have been identified as 34-year-old David Coggins... who had no known address... and, 18-year-olds Ricky Knickerbocker, and, Steven Todd and 21-year-old Joshua McCormick... all of Elmira.  All four have been preliminarily charged with two counts each of second-degree murder.  Gerace says the Skinners were apparently targeted for the crime.


Goodell supports effort to pass Recall legislation in New York...

Republicans in the State Assembly are pushing a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow voters to recall their elected officials for corruption and other reasons.  Assembly Minority Leader Brian Kolb, who is leading the movement, says recall elections are already working in 19 other states.  Local Assemblyman Andy Goodell says he backs the effort because it reminds lawmakers that they "must always focus first and foremost on representing their constituents, and no one else."  Goodell says because it involves amending the state constitution... it will probably take about 3 to 4 years to gain approval if there is enough support.  The Bemus Point Republican says both the Senate and Assembly have to vote pass "concurrent resolutions" supporting the amendment... in two separate sessions.  It would then have to be approved by the voters.  Goodell says the GOP has not yet heard back from the other side of the aisle.  He admits they will need some help in getting the legislation through the Democrat-led chamber.  The legislation would apply to all state elected officials.


County Legislature approves measure to renew additional .5-percent sales tax renewal...

Chautauqua County lawmakers Wednesday night began the process of renewing the county's added half-a-percent sales tax.  The legislature approved a home rule request to the state to keep the overall tax at 7.5-percent, 22-to-3.  Majority Leader Larry Barmore supported the measure... saying it's critical to retain the extra point-5 percent to maintain county operations.  Barmore generally opposes increased taxes... but, adds that if the half-a-percent was not renewed for another two years... it would result in a huge property tax increase.  He says thatt's because it would have to replace $6.2-million in lost revenues... or $1 per $1,000 full value in property taxes.  Barmore says counties can automatically charge a 7-percent tax... with four-percent going to the state... and, three-percent to the counties.  Half of that goes to local cities, towns and villages.  Barmore adds that 30-percent of the added half-a-percent goes to local municipalities.  Jamestown Democrat Lori Cornell cast one of the "no" votes.  She says she's consistantly voted against that... and, other tax increases.  Cornell says the "bottom line" is it's a tax increase.  Barmore says the city of Jamestown gets an additional $530,000 a year from the added half-a-percent... and, would likely have to increase property taxes if that wasn't available.  Cornell argues the cost of government needs to be cut... and, made more efficient... and, more needs to be done to stimulate the economy.


Jamestown man arrested for alleged possession of "Crack" cocaine...

A city man is in the county jail after allegedly being found in possession of "crack" cocaine when he was spotted hiding in the back seat of a car during a traffic stop Tuesday afternoon.  Jamestown police say officers had pulled over the car on Washington Street, near 10th about 4:30 p.m., for a traffic violation.  During the stop... they found 28 year-old Darren Mushat laying down in the backseat... and, trying to hide from officers.  Police say Mushat was already wanted for criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Officers say they found about 1.6-grams of "crack" in his possession during the stop.  They say Mushat was charged with another count of Felony criminal possession of a controlled substance.  He was arraigned in city court... and, sent to the county jail without bail.

 

 

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines

 

The Chautauqua County Legislature has approved a motion calling on state lawmakers to pass legislation protecting the privacy of people with pistol licenses... and, concealed carry permits.  However... approval didn't come without some debate.  Supporters say the ability of the media to obtain the names and addresses of gun owners puts them in danger... and, further erodes their second amendment rights.  Sherman Republican Fred Croscut says there are several people in his District who are very concerned about this happening.  He adds their biggest worry is criminals breaking into homes and stealing weapons.However... Fredonia Democrat Billy Coughlin says there is an issue of Freedom of the Press to be able to see... and, scrutinize government transactions.  He referred to a past meeting where lawmakers called on the state to repeal the SAFE Act.
Coughlin also questioned the viability of motions to influence state and federal legislation.  However... Majority Leader Larry Barmore says they have... especially regarding some recent changes made to the SAFE Act.  Last night's measure was approved, 20-to-5.

 

A woman whose been the assistant director at the Prendergast Library in Jamestown the past 4-and-a-half years has been named it's new, permanent director.  Tina Scott has also been acting director for the past several months after Linda Mielke abruptly stepped down late last year.  Scott says it's "wonderful" to be the new director... adding she'll be able to focus on just that post.  That's because the Pendergast board... and, the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library system's panel... decided to move forward with separate directors. Scott says separating the positions so the Prendergast position is not combined with the library system's is the kind of move that's been happening state-wide.  She see's that as an advantage so she can work with another library director to make it... and, the system stronger.  She says that especially the case with fund-raising... which many libraries have had to do.  Scott says while their base funding from the city has remained flat the past several years... other sources have been drastically cut.  She says it's led libraries across the region to cooperate even more.

 

The Prendergast Library's new director takes over at a busy time for the library.  A number of fund-raisers are coming up... including the Prendergast's biggest of the year.  The annual Booksale, though, will be held at a new venue this year.  In the past... the library closed early the day before the Booksale to set up... and, the library closed for those two days to host the event.  This year... Tina Scott says they've teamed with the Jamestown Renaissance Center to hold the sale there... beginning on Friday, June 7th. Scott says they normally get draw a lot of people for the booksale...and, there should be plenty of room in the center for it.  She adds the library will also stay open during the sale... so, the need for volunteers for that weekend is greater.  Scott says there are a couple of fund-raisers to be held PRIOR to the booksale... including a new Scrabble Tournament on May 18th.  Scott says they've already received a lot of books for the annual Booksale... and, they're still accepting them up to a week before the event.

 

A city man is in the county jail after allegedly being found in possession of "crack" cocaine when he was spotted hiding in the back seat of a car during a traffic stop Tuesday afternoon.  Jamestown police say officers had pulled over the car on Washington Street, near 10th about 4:30 PM, for a traffic violation.  During the stop... they found 28 year-old Darren Mushat laying down in the backseat... and, trying to hide from officers.  Police say Mushat was already wanted for criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Officers say they found about 1.6-grams of "crack" in his possession during the stop.  They say Mushat was charged with another count of Felony criminal possession of a controlled substance.  He was arraigned in city court... and, sent to the county jail without bail.

 

A big name in comedy will be coming to Jamestown next October... and, organizers of a new running event in Jamestown couldn't be more excited.  The Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Center for Comedy, the Chautauqua Striders, and, Jamestown Savings Bank Arena have announced that the legendary Martin Short will be the featured performer for the "Lucy Town Half Marathon and 5k" weekend.  Lucy-Desi Center Director Journey Gunderson says they have been busy both with the Columbus Weekend event and the Comedy Festival this summer.Participants of the half marathon and 5k race will have the first shot at getting tickets.  Gunderson says they'll then go on sale to the general public on July 1st.  Martin Short will be on stage at the Reg Lenna Civic Center Saturday, October 12th at 7:30 PM.  All that information can be found on-line at Lucy-Race-dot-COM. 

 

Local News Update for Wed., Apr. 24, 2013

Tina Scott named as new director at James Prendergast Library...

The woman whose been the acting director at Jamestown's Prendergast Library for the past several months is now the library's permanent director.  The Prendergast Library Association's board of trustees has announced that Tina Scott... whose been Assistant Director for the past 4-and-a-half years... has now assumed the directorship.  Scott says it's "wonderful" to be named as the new director.  However... she won't be director of the Chautauqua-Cattaraugus Library system... as both boards have decided to separate the positions.  Scott sees that as an advantage because she can work with that person to make both the Prendergast, and the system "stronger."  She says having another person to bounce ideas off is good... because operating libraries has been difficult in recent years.  The city of Jamestown has keep funding flat at about 372-thousand dollars the past several years... and, other sources have been severly cut.  Scott says libraries across the region are cooperating even more to provide some stability.  Tina Scott replaces the embattled Linda Mielke... who parted ways with the library system late last year.


Lucy-Desi Center Director says they're excited to have Martin Short as part of Half-Marathon...

A big name in comedy will be coming to Jamestown next October 12... and, organizers of a new running event in Jamestown couldn't be more excited.  The Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Center for Comedy, the Chautauqua Striders, and, Jamestown Savings Bank Arena have announced that the legendary Martin Short will be the featured performer for the "Lucy Town Half Marathon and 5-K" weekend.  Lucy-Desi Center Director Journey Gunderson says they have been busy both with the Columbus Weekend event and the Comedy Festival this summer.  Gunderson says getting headliners Bill Engvall and Kathleen Madigan for the August event... and, Martin Short for the Columbus Day Weekend... took a lot of hard work over the past several months.  Participants of the half marathon and 5-K race will have the first shot at getting tickets.  Gunderson says they'll then go on sale to the general public on July 1.  All that information can be found on-line at www.lucy-race.com.


Tickets officially go on sale to the public for Lucille Ball Comedy Festival Wednesday...

Tickets are now on sale to the general public for ALL events at this August's Lucille Ball Comedy Festival.  That from Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Center of Comedy Director Journey Gunderson... who says that includes tickets for their two headliners.  Gunderson says tickets for Bill Engvall and Kathleen Madigan went on sale beginning at 12 p.m... and, to order, go on-line to www.LucyComedyFest.com... or you can call (716)484-0800.  Gunderson says they were already receiving calls from people Wednesday morning... but, she said they had a hard-and-fast start time of 12 Noon to give people on the west coast a fair shot at the tickets.  She says there was a pre-sale window for committed sponsors and partners of the center's.  Gunderson adds the G-I's of Comedy show... made up of comic veteran's... are all free of charge to local veterans.  But... she says you must still get a ticket.  Again... for more information... call 484-0800.


Gas prices in Jamestown-area go down again this week...

Gas prices in the Jamestown-area continue to fall this week... as the price for a gallon of regular, unleaded has fallen by 4-cents.  The AAA's Fuel Gauge reports that the price is now just under $3.82.  The AAA reports that New York ranks sixth in the nation for the state average price of gasoline at $3.74.  The lowest price is in Wyoming... where it's now $3.33... and, the highest is Hawaii at $4.36 a gallon.  Nationally... the average retail price for a gallon of regular, unleaded is $3.52 a gallon.  That price is a penny a gallon less that a week ago.  The primary factors driving overall retail gas prices lower in recent weeks have been low demand... continued disappointing economic news... and, lower crude oil prices.  Recent storms and resulting power outages combined to push higher gas prices in the Midwest. 

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines

 

There will be no tax increase in the 2013-2014 budget that voters will decide on for the Jamestown School District on May 21st.  The school board last night approved the 75.3-million spending plan, 6-to-0.  Board President Joe DiMaio says this was a tough budget to work on, because it initially included a 4.6-million dollar shortfall.  However... district administrators developed a plan to cut some items, delay buying others, and use just over 2-million dollars in fund balance and funds to plug that gap.  School Board President Joe DiMaio was pleased they didn't have to use another 145-thousand dollars from the fund balance. School officials were able to avoid anymore cuts to instruction, and other key personnel areas.  However... some positions weren't filled... or were eliminated.  DiMaio praised Assistant Superintendent for Administration Dale Weatherlow for finding additional cuts in a couple of areas so the district wouldn't have to dip any further into it's undesignated fund balance.  The spending plan does use 500-thousand dollars from the fund balance... and, another 1.55-million from the district's Debt Service Reserve fund to help fill the shortfall.  The school board also reviewed a second proposition that will be on the May 21st ballot.  That's for the 795-thousand dollar purchase of eight vehicles.  Weatherlow says the district will replace five large buses... one-wheelchair bus... and, two vans.

 

A third person has now been arrested in connection with last weekend's raid on a methamphetamine lab in the city of Jamestown.  City police said Tuesday that 38 year-old Donald Dean was arrested after officers received several anonymous tips that Dean was hiding out in Lakewood.  Officers say Dean has apparently been spotted at a Lakecrest Avenue address.  Jamestown officers were assisted by Lakewood-Busti Police... and, Dean was arrested about 10 AM.  Dean... along with 28 year-old Joseph Snyder and 23 year-old Dustin Verrett... are accused of making the drug inside an apartment.  City police were assisted by the State Police C-NET Team... and, the Department of Homeland Security in the investigation.  They add they found a quantity of items used to make meth during the raid.  Dean faces a Felony charge of criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, unlawful manufacture of methamphetamine in connection with making... and, selling the drug from a residence at 181 Barrows Street.  He's been held pending arraignment in the city jail.

 

Lakewood village lawmakers have approved a 3.24-million dollar, 2013-2014 budget that increases taxes by 1.3-percent.  Mayor David Wordelmann says the village board approved the spending plan... which increases the tax rate by 23-cents per thousand assessed value... unanimously.  Wordelmann acknowledges it's the biggest hike in several years... but, adds there were primarily four factors -- not under their control -- that led to that increase. Wordelmann says the biggest increase that was state-mandated was a 37-thousand dollar hike in pension costs.  He says spending is up in the new budget by about 120-thousand dollars... while revenues are up about 80-thousand.  Wordelmann says 23-thousand dollars of the spending increase came in the form of added Consolidated Highway Improvement Program... or CHIPS funding.  He says the other big spending increase was about 32-thousand dollars in fuel and equipment for both the Police and Fire Departments combined.  The overall tax levy is up by about 22-thousand dollars.

 

Chautauqua County has contracted with an upstate New York firm to be it's new, third-party Worker's Compensation carrier... beginning May 1st.  Finance Director Susan Marsh says the move to POMCO Risk Management was necessitated when it's former carrier... RBM Remsco recently decided to get out of the business.  Marsh says the county... which is self-insured... put the contract out to bid... and, received five proposals.  She says POMCO... which is based out of Syracuse... had the lowest bid.  But... Marsh adds it was also the most impressive. Marsh says they're hoping to save money with the new carrier... but, adds POMCO also brings more oversight, more quarterly meetings.  She believes... in working with the local municipalities who are also covered under the new contract... they'll begin to see costs come down.  But... she adds the nature of claims also play a role. Marsh says POMCO will be handling all current and future County Worker's Compensation claims... and, will contact employees with active claims.  For more information... she says call POMCO at 1-877-236-7475.

 

Governor Cuomo is replacing the chairwoman of the troubled state ethics board he created more than a year ago.  Cuomo says lawyer Daniel Horwitz, a former assistant district attorney in Manhattan, will take over from Westchester County District Attorney Janet DiFiore (Dee-Fee-OR'-ee) as head of the Joint Commission on Public Ethics.  Cuomo says DiFiore is being replaced because she's running for re-election as Westchester's top prosecutor.

 

A man accused of plotting to derail a train in Canada with support from al-Qaida elements in Iran has made a brief court appearance.  His suspected accomplice appeared in court late Tuesday in Montreal.  Charges against the two men include conspiring to carry out an attack and murder people in association with a terrorist group.

 

 

 


 

Local News Update for Tues., Apr. 23, 2013

Third arrest made in connection with Jamestown Meth Lab bust...

A third person sought in connection with last weekend's raid on a methamphetamine lab in the city of Jamestown has been arrested.  City police today say 38 year-old Donald Dean was arrested after officers received several anonymous tips that Dean was hiding out in Lakewood.  Officers say Dean has apparently been spotted at a Lakecrest Avenue address.  Jamestown officers were assisted by Lakewood-Busti Police... and, Dean was arrested about 10 a.m.  Dean faces a Felony charge of criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, unlawful manufacture of methamphetamine in connection with making... and, selling the drug from a residence at 181 Barrows Street.  He's been held pending arraignment in the city jail.  Two other men were arrested during last Friday night's raid.


Cause released in Pomfret Trucking business fire...

Chautauqua County Fire investigators have wrapped up their work on determining the cause of Monday's devastating fire that destroyed Hill's Trucking in the town of Pomfret.  Undersheriff Charles Holder says firefighters were called to the scene on Webster Road at Route 60 just before 2 p.m.  Holder adds the cause has been ruled accidental... adding that one of the tractor-trailers was parked inside the service building when the blaze broke out... and, it was apparently caused by an electrical malfunction.  A Hill's Trucking Company worker tells local media that he thought the tractor-trailer had caught fire and caused an explosion sending flames through the building.  Matt Davis was inside the building when it happened... and, it appeared to be something in one of the trucks in for service.  Davis says it triggered a small explosion and the building was heavily engulfed in fire soon after.  No major injuries were reported... but, two firefighters were taken to Brooks Memorial Hospital... one with a hand injury.  The other felt ill and was transported to the Dunkirk based hospital as a precaution.  A total of 17 fire companies were at the scene at the height of the blaze.  Route 60 in the area was closed for over five hours.


Several fire companies have to deal with explosions in Pomfret fire...

Firefighters from 17 different departments battled the blaze in Pomfret... which was punctuated by several explosions.  The blaze destroyed the two buildings at Hills Trucking Company.  First Battalion Coordinator Tony Faso says a tractor-trailer brought in for service had caught fire.  Faso says the tractor-trailer was inside when the blaze broke out, and it was "very difficult" to bring under control.  Tanks of oxygen, acetylene and propane help fuel the fire along with more than 100 tires.  Fredonia First Assistant Fire Chief Kurt Maytum tells us it was a major challenge for firefighters.  Maytum says some acetylene and propane tanks exploded... along with many tires in a room.  Several fire departments remained on the scene for over several hours... including a tower truck from Fredonia and an aerial truck from Dunkirk.  Two firefighters were taken to Brooks Memorial Hospital... one with a hand injury and another who felt ill.  The buildings are a total loss. County Fire Investigators are at the scene to determine an exact cause.  Route 60 from Webster to Straight Roads was closed for over five hours.


Canadian terror plot involving train revealed...

A man accused of plotting to derail a train in Canada with support from al-Qaida elements in Iran made a brief court appearance and was told to appear in court again next month.  35 year-old Raed Jaser sported a long beard, wore a black shirt with no tie... and, was accompanied by his parents and brother on Tuesday.  He was given a new court date for May 23 and did not enter a plea.  The court also granted a request by his lawyer, John Norris, for a publication ban on future evidence and testimony.  Jaser's suspected accomplice, Chiheb Esseghaier, 30, was scheduled to appear in court in Montreal later Tuesday.  Charges against the two men include conspiring to carry out an attack and murder people in association with a terrorist group.  Canadian authorities say the two men were working with ``direction and guidance'' from al-Qaida members in Iran.  Iran is denying any link with the two suspects.


County contracts with new Workers Compensation carrier...

Chautauqua County has contracted with an upstate New York firm to be it's new, third-party Worker's Compensation carrier... beginning May 1.  Finance Director Susan Marsh says the move to POMCO Risk Management was necessitated when it's former carrier... RBM Remsco recently decided to get out of the business.  Marsh says the county... which is self-insured... put the contract out to bid... and, received five proposals.  She says POMCO... which is based out of Syracuse... had the lowest bid.  But... Marsh adds it was also the most impressive.  She says they serve several public entities in the region... including 10 counties, and cities like Buffalo.  Marsh says they're hoping to save money with the new carrier... but, adds POMCO also brings more oversight, more quarterly meetings.  She believes... in working with the local municipalities who are also covered under the new contract... they'll begin to see costs come down.  But... she adds the nature of claims also play a role.  She says some accidents can't be controlled, but, getting more people involved with more training can reduce accidents -- and, "overall costs."  Marsh says POMCO will be handling all current and future County Worker's Compensation claims... and, will contact employees with active claims.  For more information... she says call POMCO at 1-877-236-7475.

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines 4/23/13

 

Fire has destroyed a major trucking company on Route 60 just south of the village of Fredonia Monday afternoon.  Local Media reports say a problem with a tractor-trailer being brought into be serviced at Hill's Trucking apparently sparked the blaze at about 2:15 PM.  The main building... and, offices... were reportedly fully-engulfed in flames on arrival.  Fredonia was first called to the scene... and, soon after called in mutual aid from the city of Dunkirk and East and West Towns of Dunkirk fire companies.  Other department's assisting included Sheridan, Sunset Bay, Cassadaga, Portland, Forestville and Irving.  The county's HazMat team was also called out.  Route 60 was shut-down between Webster and Straight Roads about 5-and-a-half hours.  No one was hurt.  The cause remains under investigation.

 

Snow and ice removal costs for the first-quarter of the year in the city of Jamestown are nearly 30-percent higher than they were through the first-quarter of this year.  However... the city basically held it's own through the first three-months of 2013.  Comptroller Joe Bellitto told City Council members at last night's work session that -- otherwise -- their numbers are "about normal."  Bellitto says Board of Public Utilities' Payments in lieu of Taxe payments are slightly above last year -- mainly on the strength of four divisions.  He says they're still waiting on sales tax figures.  But... Bellitto says at least two key expenses were way up. However... Mayor Sam Teresi says that doesn't mean anyone is doing a bad job... it's a matter of Mother Nature handing us a more "normal Winter."  He gave lawmakers credit for not cutting the snow and ice removal budgets any more than they already had... and, some were calling for them to cut more.  Teresi adds that fuel costs for the Public Works Department are up 25-percent for the first two months of the year.

 

A Jamestown man is accused of driving off from a traffic stop in the city... and, leading officers on a high-speed chase that ended in a foot chase.  City police say they spotted the car... driven by 54 year-old Terrance Thomas... fail to stop at a stop sign at Foote Avenue and Water Street about 12:30 Monday morning.  Thomas is also accused of failing to signal a turn.  Officers say they pulled Thomas over... but, he drove off from the stop at a high-rate of speed.  Police pursued until Thomas stopped at 113 Broadhead Avenue... where he began running from officers.  Thomas allegedly ran until he was caught... and, resisted arrest.  He was also allegedly found with marijuana in his possession.  He's being held on several charges... including unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle... reckless driving... and, unlawful possession of marijuana.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

 

Chautauqua County's Congressman is praising the work of local, state and federal law enforcement agencies in solving the Boston Marathon bombing case.  Corning Republican Tom Reed says his "thoughts and prayers" are with the people of Massachusetts.  Coincidently... Reed's weekly telephone news conference included the moment of silence for the victims of the bombings at 2:50 Monday afternoon.  He also commended the Obama Administration for it's handling of the situation... and, the surviving suspect. The surviving suspect... Dzhokhar (Joh-KAR) Tsarnaev (Sahr-Neye-Ev)... was read his Miranda rights today... and, formally charged with using a Weapon of Mass Destruction.  Some have questioned using the public safety 'exception' of the Miranda Law so Tsarnaev didn't have to be read his rights immediately.  However... Reed does not. Reed says he looks forward to having the "full-weight" of justice coming down on the alleged bomber so that it sends "a message to anyone that may think about commiting a similar act that the entire nation will not stand for that."  He hopes the final penalty will be severe.

 

County officials have wrapped up a "complicated deal" that both sells... and, fills up the north county's Chadwick Bay Industrial Park spec building.  The structure was completed along with others in Chautauqua County several years ago... but, the county had been unable to sell the structure.  A deal appeared in place many years ago... but, it fell through.  County Executive Greg Edwards says... through the efforts of the Industrial Development Agency -- and, one local business -- that building has now been sold to Dunkirk Metal Products for 1.8-million dollars.  Edwards says a tenant has also been found for extra space in the building. Edwards says proceeds from the sale will help pay off the rest of the Chadwick Bay spec building's costs.  That includes reducing the bond pay-off from 30 to 20 years.  Edwards says that move will save the county a significant amount of money.  He and IDA Director Bill Daly reported on the deal to the legislature's Audit and Control committee last Thursday.

 

Governor Cuomo, under pressure from local government officials... says he will join their discussion to address the fiscal crisis facing cities, counties and their taxpayers.  Cuomo has already met with some local officials to build support for his proposal to change the binding arbitration law that guides labor disputes.  He wants to require mediators to consider taxpayers' ability to pay.  On Friday... he told public radio's ``Capitol Pressroom'' that he will expand those discussions to talk about ``the larger problem of distressed communities.''

 

News Update for Mon., Apr. 22, 2013

Two people hurt in serious single-car accident in Mina...

Two Warren County, Pennsylvania residents are being treated at an Erie hospital after their car crashed into a ditch... then telephone pole... on Rt. 426 in the town of Mina.  Sheriff's officers say the vehicle... operated by 49 year-old Darcy Smith of Youngsville... was northbound shortly before 10 p.m. last Saturday when she lost control of her car.  Deputies say the car went into the ditch... and then struck the utility pole.  Smith and her passenger, 53 year-old Charles Insinger -- also of Youngsville -- were treated at the scene.  Insigner was flown by Starflight Helicopter to the Hamot Medical Center in Erie... while Smith was taken by ambulance.  No charges have been filed... but, the accident remains under investigation.  The county's Accident Reconstruction Team was among the response units called in.


State Police begin "Operation Hang Up" on Thruway to deter using cell phones and driving...

Troopers will be stepping up patrols on the New York Thruway to nab motorists using cellphones while driving.  State Police Troop 'T' says ``Operation Hang Up'' will kick in today... and, continue through next Sunday.  Police say texting or talking on mobile devices continue to be growing problems despite the clear hazards. Cell phone use and texting are responsible for a significant proportion of traffic crashes, injuries and deaths. Troop T issued 150,000 tickets last year, approximately 4,664 of which were for cell phone violations.


State, local region recognizing Earth Day today, and this week...

The state Department of Environmental Conservation is sponsoring events around the state all week to mark the 43rd anniversary of Earth Day.  The first Earth Day was held on April 22, 1970, the same year New York's DEC and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency were created. Earth Day was founded by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson after he toured the devastation of the 1969 massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California.  On Monday... DEC hosts a citizen science eel project along the Hudson River in Staatsburg, a birdwatching walk at Peebles Island State Park in Waterford, and a green cleaning product workshop in Depew.  Jamestown Community College was also hosting a number of Earth Day events Monday.


Edwards "excited" about "possibility" of German pet food producer moving into former AFA Foods building...

A German pet food producer is very interested in locating a new plant in Chautauqua County.  However... the former AFA Foods site in Ashville is competing with another location in Michigan for the $20-million project proposed by Saturn Petcare.  County Executive Greg Edwards updated county lawmakers on the Audit and Control Committee on efforts to land the new business.  The AFA Foods plant is the former Fairbank Farms location... which has been idle since AFA closed it last year.  Edwards says he and Industrial Development Agency Director Bill Daly met with the number-two man at Saturn last Wednesday... and, they're excited about the possibilities.  He says it would be "direct foreign investment in Chautauqua County."  Edwards says Chautauqua County is a finalist because it's within a day's drive of 50-percent of the U-S population.  On last weekend's "Community Spotlight" program... he said talks were very upbeat... but, he adds that state-backing is also needed.  Edwards says he's "confident" that the county... and, state... "put their best foot foward" to make the project a reality.


Chadwick Bay Industrial Park building sold to Dunkirk Metal Products for $1.8-million...

Chautauqua County has finished a "complicated deal" that will both sell... and, fill the north county's Chadwick Bay Industrial Park spec building.  The building was completed along with others around the county several years ago... but, the county had been unable to sell the structure.  County Executive Greg Edwards says... through the efforts of the Industrial Development Agency -- and, one local business -- that building has now been sold.  He says it's Dunkirk Metal Products, which is combining it's two locations, and expanding.  Edwards adds that Dunkirk Metal will be renting out the unused space in the facility to an international company, as well.  He says that's a German company, which plans on being there long-term.  Edwards says the proceeds will help pay off the rest of the spec building's costs.  That includes reducing the bond pay-off from 30 to 20 years.  Edwards says that'll save the county a significant amount of money.


WCA hosts Open House for new Center of Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation...

The wraps have been taken off WCA Hospital's new Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation at 31 Sherman Street.  The center is located right behind the hospital... and, WCA President and Chief Exeuctive Officer Betsy Wright was very pleased with the turn-out for Monday's open house.  Wright says they've now been able to set up the offices for both their orthopedic surgeons on staff.  He says they have Drs. William Fritz, and Peter Robinson offices upstairs.  In addition... Wright says Podiatrist Dr. Brooke Kelly was on hand... along with Michael Glenn... who is an orthopedic surgeon from the New York Surgical Hospitalist program.  She says all of their therapists were also on hand.  However... Wright says the new center has already been up and running for about a month and a half now... and, allows them to focus on outpatient-rehabilitation.  She says they moved their Medical Rehabilitation unit from the Jones Memorial Health Center... so everything... including audio and hearing rehabilitation is in one localtion... next to the hospital.  Dozens of people came through the for open house... which included health screenings, and information on making appointments or getting referrals.

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines

 

Two Jamestown men have been arrested... and, a third is still being sought... for allegedly running an illegal meth lab on the city's eastside.  City police investigators raided a home at 181 Barrows Street late last week after developing information that it was being used to manufacture, and sell methamphetime.  Police Captain Bob Samuelson says they were joined by members of the State Police C-NET Team... and, the Department of Homeland Security.  Samuelson says the state Police Contaminate Crime Scene Emergency Response Team found a quantity of items used to make the highly volatile drug.  Police say they arrested 28 year-old Joseph Snyder... and 23 year-old Dustin Verrett late Friday.  Both were arraigned on charges of unlawful manufacture of methamphetime... and, criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, sent to the county jail without bail.
City police add they are also looking for a third suspect in the case.  Officers accuse 38 year-old Donald Dean... who also lives at the 181 Barrows address... is wanted on several outstanding warrants.  Anyone who knows Dean's whereabouts is asked to call city police at 483-7537... or the JPD Tip-Line at 483-TIPS.  That's 483-8477. 

 

A city man faces menacing charges for allegedly threatening three people with a knife during an incident on Jamestown's eastside early last weekend.  Police were called to the scene of a reported fight on Willard Street just before 2 o'clock Saturday morning.  Officers accuse 20 year-old Jarrelle Sparks of displayed the knife to the trio of victims... and, threatened them with it.  However... Sparks was arrested without incident... and, taken to the city jail on three counts of second-degree menacing.  He was being held pending arraignment in city court.

   

A German pet food producer is very interested in locating a new plant in Chautauqua County.  However... the former AFA Foods site in Ashville is competing with another location in Michigan for the 20-million dollar project proposed by Saturn Petcare.  County Executive Greg Edwards updated county lawmakers on the Audit and Control Committee on efforts to land the new business.  The AFA Foods plant is the former Fairbank Farms location... which has been idle since AFA closed it last year.  Edwards says he and Industrial Development Agency Director Bill Daly met with the number-two man at Saturn last Wednesday... and, they're excited about the possibilities. Edwards says Chautauqua County is a finalist because it's within a day's drive of 50-percent of the U-S population.  On last weekend's "Community Spotlight" program... he said talks were very upbeat... but, he adds that state-backing is also needed.  Edwards says he's "confident" that the county... and, state... "put their best foot foward" to make the project a reality.

 

As first responders deal with the tragedies in Boston and Texas... local fire departments are looking for volunteers to help with day to day operations.  About half of the 42 fire departments in Chautauqua County will be taking part in a statewide effort to recruit firefighters and EMTs.  That from County Emergency Services Director Julius Leone... who says many of the departments will hold open house events during the weekend of April 27th and 28th. Dan Imfeld of the County Emergency Services Department administers a 400-thousand dollar SAFER Grant the County received last year.  He says incentives are available to those who join up. Locally... the Lakewood Fire Department will hold an open house next Saturday, April 27th and Sunday the 28th... from 11 AM until 2 PM.  There will also be on in Fredonia on the 27th with the same hours.  Leone says interested persons can find out about house events across the county by calling the County Emergency Services Office at 753-4341.

 

The Lakewood Village Board will likely vote tonight on a 3.24-million dollar, 2013-2014 budget that increases taxes by 1.3-percent.  While spending is up by nearly 101-thousand dollars... Wordelmann says revenues are also up about 80-thousand.  He says there are basically four areas where spending is going up in the spending plan.  The biggest... he says... is more than 37-thousand dollars in increased pension costs to New York state. Wordelmann says it's the third straight year of significant pension cost hikes.  The other big increase is about 32-thousand dollars in fuel and equipement for both the Police and Fire Departments combined.  As for revenue increases... he says a key one is a change in taxing status for the Lakewood Village Center on Fairmount Avenue.  They are changing to a payment in lieu of tax agreement... which was put in place because the Widewaters Group made a major investment in upgrading the center when three new businesses moved in.  Wordelmann says the tax levy only increases by about 22-thousand dollars under the plan.

 

New York officials say hunters killed about 243-thousand deer during the 2012-13 hunting seasons, roughly 6 percent more than a year earlier.  Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Joe Martens says the state has been taking steps to encourage hunting as the deer population continues to grow.  The breakdown of the past season's take was 124,000 adult females and fawns and 119,000 adult bucks.

Local News update for Sat., Apr. 20, 2013

Two arrested, one sought in connection with Meth Lab raid in Jamestown...

Two Jamestown men have been arrested... and, a third is being sought... for allegedly running an illegal meth lab on the city's eastside.  City police investigators raided a home at 181 Barrows Street about 5 p.m. Friday after developing information that it was being used to manufacture, and sell methamphetime.  Police Captain Bob Samuelson says they were joined by members of the State Police C-NET Team... and, the Department of Homeland Security.  Samuelson says the state Police Contaminate Crime Scene Emergency Response Team found a quantity of items used to make the highly volatile drug.  Two residents were arrested.  Police say 28 year-old Joseph Snyder... and 23 year-old Dustin Verrett... are charged with unlawful manufacture of methamphetime... and, criminal possession of a controlled substance.  They were being held pending arraignment.
----
City police add they are also looking for a third suspect in the case.  Officers accuse 38 year-old Donald Dean... who also lives at the 181 Barrows address... is wanted on several outstanding warrants.  Anyone who knows Dean's whereabouts is asked to call city police at 483-7537... or the JPD Tip-Line at 483-TIPS.  That's 483-8477. 


Jamestown area goes through major weather change, more wintry conditions prevail Saturday...

After a day that started with mid-60 temperatures... the area did see up to an inch of snow through late Saturday morning.  The National Weather Service discontinued a Wind Advisory overnight... that after a sharp cold front dropped the mercury about 12 degrees within a matter of minutes shortly before 1:30 p.m.  It fell to 45 by early Friday night... and, Forecaster Jim Mitchell in Buffalo said even colder air -- with snow -- was coming in later.  Mitchell says there was likely some lake enhancement, with up to an inch falling in the higher elevations.  In the north county.  High's Saturday will be about 38.  In the north county... the temperature at the Dunkirk Airport dropped from 71 just before Noon yesterday to 45 degrees about an hour later.


Four suspects in town of Carroll homicides jailed without bail, pending preliminary hearings...

The four suspects in the deaths of a town of Carroll couple have now been formally charged with murder in the case.  Sheriff Joe Gerace says 66 year-old Gordon... and, 59 year-old Joyce Skinner were found dead about 9:30 a.m. Wednesday in their burning home on Wheeler Hill Road.  Gerace says the four suspects were arrested early Thursday morning in Elmira.  He and District Attorney David Foley says only one of them... 34 year-old David Coggins... who has no known address... has a criminal rap sheet.  Gerace says the criminal history was not related to this incident, and would not say if it was a "violent" criminal history.  During this week's press conference announcing the arrests... and, the names of the victims... Gerace said they weren't aware of a criminal history with the other three men.  They've been identified as 21 year-old Joshua McCormick... and, 18 year-olds Ricky Knickerbocker, and Steven Todd -- all of Elmira.   Gerace says the Skinners were apparently targeted for the crime... but, won't yet say how they were killed.  Authorities also won't say what their connection was to the Skinners.  All four were arraigned on two counts each of second-degree murder... and, sent to the county jail without bail.


Local native among those locked in their homes during manhunt for two Boston Marathon bombing suspects...

A Boston woman with family-ties to the Jamestown-area was locked in her house all day Friday as the manhunt continued until last night's capture of the second suspect in the Boston Marathon bombings.  Kelly Knee is the daughter of Jamestown's Nancy Knee... and, has worked for a major company just outside Massachusetts' largest city.  Our Jim Roselle contacted Kelly late Friday morning... and, asked what the situation was like.  She said she was alright... but, admitted it was "a little scary."  Kelly says she was getting ready to take the train to her job as a scientist at Pfizer in Cambridge, but, the word came down that no one was going anywhere.  She says she lives on a main street in Boston... but, says there was no traffic... and, the trains weren't running... which seemed "kind of strange."  Knee says she was just 'kicking back' with her dog.  But... she found out early about the gravity of the situation when she took her pet for a walk about 7 a.m. Friday.  Knee came across a police officer who said she could go around the block... but, then get inside "as soon as I could."  Kelly Knee said she was keeping up with events through the radio and TV... and, social media on the Internet.  She went to college at Alfred University and got her doctorate degree in Connecticut.

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines 4:54am 4/19/13

 

A town of Carroll couple has now been officially identifed as the victims of a home invasion Wednesday morning... and, four men have been arrested in connect with their deaths.  During a press conference Thursday in Mayville... Sheriff Joe Gerace said that 66 year-old Gordon... and, 59 year-old Joyce Skinner were found dead about 9:30 AM Wednesday in their burning home on Wheeler Hill Road.  A somber Gerace described it as - quote - "one of the most disturbing and troubling incidents" he's ever seen. Gerace says all four suspects were were arrested early Thursday morning in Elmira... thanks to quick work by first responders... and, good information from the public.  He adds this was NOT a random act of violence.  Gerace identified the suspects as 34-year-old David Coggins... who had no known address... and, three Elmira men.  They are 21 year-old Joshua McCormick... and, 18-year-olds Ricky Knickerbocker and, StevenTodd.  Neither Gerace... nor District Attorney David Foley would say how the couple died... and, the investigation is continuing.  While not saying how the Skinner's died... Gerace did say they don't believe a firearm was used.  They have also impounded the car allegedly used in the crime and get-away.

 

Wednesday morning's incident has shocked the town of Carroll... which is one of Chautauqua County's smallest municipalities.  Residents have taken to social media to try and sort out what's happened in the town of just over 3-thousand people.  There was also praise for the quick work by police to apprehend the alleged suspects in the case.  Carroll Police Chief Tim Wright says many people are "extremely scared...." Wright was among the police officials first on the scene at Gordon and Joyce Skinner's Wheeler Hill Road home.  He says all that can be done to solve the homicide case is being done.  Wright thanked community members for assisting in the search for the four suspects... saying they played a key role in the arrests in Elmira.  Sheriff Gerace also thanked the State Police... and, Elmira and Chemung County Police agencies for their help in tracking down the suspects.  

 

We can expect strong winds through-out the area until late this evening in the Jamestown-area.  The National Weather Service has extended our Wind Advisory through Midnight TONIGHT.  A High Wind Watch was discontinued early last evening.  But... Forecaster Dave Thomas says wind speeds may still be a problem through-out the day today. Wind speeds ovenight through this morning could reach 50 miles an hour at times.  Thunderstorms are forecast for late this morning as the cold front begins to move in.  Thomas says gusts of over 50 MPH are possible locally as the front arrives.  Temperatures will also plummet from about 65 to the upper 40s by late this afternoon.  We reached 77-degrees in Jamestown yesterday.

 

Three people are dead and seven others were hurt in a crash on the state Thruway in the town of Brant -- just north of the Chautauqua County line -- Thursday morning.  Thruway State Police say an eastbound mini-van struck a Thruway Authority dump truck that was parked in the median.  The 27-year-old male driver... and a one-month-old boy were pronounced dead at the scene.  Eight others were transported to area hospitals, either by medivac helicopters or ambulance.  State Police say a 30-year-old woman later died of her injuries.  Captain Douglas Montijo (Mon-TEE-Joe) says the group was returning to the Buffalo area from a trip to Florida.  He told YNN there were more children in the vehicle than safety seats. Police investigators are looking into drowsy driving... or a medical condition as factors in the crash.  The eastbound section of the Thruway was closed from Exit 58 in Silver Creek to Exit 57A near Angola... for about four hours. 

 

More relief this week for Jamestown-area motorists this week... as gas prices have fallen to 3-dollars-86 cents for a gallon of regular, unleaded.   The Triple-A's Fuel Gauge reports the price is down about a penny over last week.  Triple-A adds this is the fourth-straight week of declining fuel prices in the area.  On the National Front... the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline is 3-dollars-52 cents.  That's 8 cents lower than last week... and, 17 cents less than one month ago.  The Triple-A says retail prices have dropped steadily since the end of February.  But... the factors pressuring prices lower have changed during the decline.  Prices fell to begin March as many refineries resumed normal operations... and, production concerns eased.  This decline came even as crude oil prices moved higher.  Weak demand and signs of economic weakness were cited as the recent causes.

 

A key Democratic state legislator has been formally indicted for plotting to bribe his way onto the New York City mayoral ballot as a Republican.  State Senator Malcolm Smith and five other politicians are named in the indictment... which echoes a criminal complaint issued April 2nd.  It says Smith schemed, with the help of City Councilman Daniel Halloran, to bribe GOP party leaders.  It says two party leaders accepted cash bribes in exchange for agreeing to help.
 

News alert for Thurs., Apr. 18, 2013

**News alert! Carroll homicide victims identifed, four suspects in custody for alleged home invasion Wednesday morning...

 

Four Central New York men have been arrested in connection with what authorities now say was a home invasion that left a town of Carroll couple dead.  During a press conference this afternoon in Mayville... Sheriff Joe Gerace said that 66 year-old Gordon... and, 59 year-old Joyce Skinner were found dead about 9:30 AM Wednesday in their burning home on Wheeler Hill Road.  Gerace says the four suspects were arrested early this (Thursday) in Elmira, where at least three of them lived.  He says all for are being held for arraignment on -- as yet -- unspecified charges.  They're identified as 34-year-old David Coggins... who had no known address... and, 18-year-old Ricky Knickerbocker, 18-year-old Steven Todd and 21-year-old Joshua McCormick... all of Elmira.  Gerace says the Skinners were apparently targeted for the crime... but, won't yet say how they were killed.  He described the attack as ``one of the most disturbing and troubling cases I have seen (in 34 years in law enforcement).''

 

 

Three people now confirmed as dead in state Thruway crash just north of Chautauqua County line...

 

Three people have died in a crash on the New York State Thruway in the town of Brant - just north of the Chautauqua County line.  The victims included a 27 year-old man... and a 30-year-old woman along with a one-month-old boy.  Thruway State Police investigators say the crash occurred when a passenger van, carrying 10 people, went off the east bound lane and struck a dump truck that was parked on the Thruway median just east of Silver Creek.  Police say at least five other people were hurt.  Troopers say the dump truck was being used for trash clean up.

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines 4:45am 4/18/13

 

Two people are dead in the town of Carroll... and, police investigators say they're deaths are "suspicious."  Chautauqua County Sheriff Joe Gerace says deputies were called to the scene near the scene on Wheeler Hill Road about 9:30 yesterday morning after Frewsburg and Kiantone firefighters were initially called to the scene for a fire.  Gerace says fire crews made the grizzly discovery fairly quickly... and, called Carroll Town Police... and, his office.
While confirming that two people were found dead... Gerace would say little else.  Sources have told us it is a man and a woman... but, the sheriff refused comment... saying they were still in the very early stages of the investigation.  Gerace says his department's Forensic Investigation Team is looking around the house right now.District Attorney David Foley was also at the scene... and, confirmed a search warrant had been obtained so officials could investigate the scene. The Sheriff's Department has not said why... but, Frewsburg school officials did confirm the Junior-Senior High School... and, the Robert H. Jackson Elementary School were locked-down this afternoon.  The move... which meant no one could get into the school... was a precaution.  Students were taken home at dismissal... or released to their parents.

 

It was a harrowing experience... but, the news is all good for local runners -- and relatives of runners -- who were at the Boston Marathon Monday when two bombs exploded near the finish line.  Dave Freeman is the husband of local native Diane Pannis.  She is the sister of Maple Grove High School Athletic Director Pete Pannis.  Freeman says she was at the finish line waiting for him in an area reserved for family members as he was less than half-a-mile from the finish line.  He says they both heard the first explosion -- and everyone froze.  Then the second bomb went off. Freeman says he was stopped about 4-tenths of a mile from the finish line.  He was able to contact her with his cell phone... and, after finding out the other was okay... they both immediately left separately... and met up at their hotel near Logan Airport.  In combat... Freeman says you don't go to a bomb site.  He says you let the professionals deal with it.  Both Dave and Diane Freeman are in the U-S Army.

 

Gun rights advocates have asked a federal judge to block New York authorities from enforcing new bullet limits for magazines... and, the new definition of assault weapons that can no longer be legally bought or sold.  The New York affiliate of the National Rifle Association, sportsmen's groups, firearms businesses and individual gun owners say the new statute is unconstitutional, prohibiting citizens from keeping commonly used firearms for home defense and other lawful purposes.  Attorney Brian Stapleton says Tuesday they hope Judge William Skretny will issue a preliminary injunction and hold a hearing within the next three weeks.  Defending the state... Assistant Attorney General Benjamin Ahlstrom says the claims have no merit.  He notes the motion was filed three months after the law passed, undercutting any argument of ``perceived imminent harm.''

 

A local non-profit organization that works with and advocates for local victims of child sexual abuse will be hosting it's biggest fund-raiser of the year this Saturday night.  The Child Advocacy Program of Chautauqua County will hold it's "Diamond Dinner Auction" at the Chautauqua Golf Club at 7 PM.  CAP Executive Director Jana McDermott says the program was created several years ago by a joint effort involving the District Attorney's office, local law enforcement, and child advocates.  McDermott says it was modeled after the national Child Advocacy Centers. McDermott says CAP works with between 300 to 400 children a year... and, it costs about 14-thousand dollars to help just one of them... so the dinner is important to them.  They'll have a cocktail hour beginning at 6 PM... and, the 7 o'clock dinner is being catered by Andriaccio's Restaurant.  McDermott says the "big item" will be given away that night.  That's a Diamond Ring... and, will be given to one lucky ticket holder. There'll also be an auction... and, CAP will hand out it's annual "Champion of Children" award during the event.  For more information... call 338-9844... or go on-line to Capjustice-dot-ORG.

 

U-S Senator Charles Schumer says farmers, especially in the dairy industry, will find it easier to secure a reliable labor force under sweeping changes to the nation's immigration laws proposed in an 844-page bipartisan bill.  Schumer says the bill, filed early Wednesday morning, creates a new visa program that will allow farmers to hire year-round workers and end reliance on illegal laborers.

 

Wholesale natural gas prices are rising, and that's bringing sighs of relief from drilling companies, states that get revenue based on prices and even the coal industry -- because gas no longer has a huge price advantage.  Federal energy statistics show natural gas prices have more than doubled in the past year.

 

News alert for Wed., Apr. 17, 2013

Two dead bodies found in Carroll...

 

Two people have been found dead inside a town of Carroll home that was the scene of a fire call this morning.  Sheriff Joe Gerace says Frewsburg and Kiantone fire crews were called to the scene shortly after 9 AM.  However... firefighters later found the bodies inside the residence on Wheeler Hill Road.  Sheriff's officers and Carroll Town Police were called to the scene about 11 a.m.  Gerace will only say the deaths are suspicious... but, won't say if they are looking for a suspect or suspects at this time.  In addition... Frewsburg school officials confirm the Junior-Senior High School... and, the Robert H. Jackson Elementary School are in "lock-out" mode until dismissal. 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines 4:50am 4/17/13

 

Chautauqua County Emergency Services Director Julius Leone was at a special meeting for first responders when the bombs went off at the Boston Marathon.  Leone says it's such meetings as the Western District Emergency Managers held in Batavia that helps them to be ready for such instances.  He says the critical part is making sure that local agencies work together... and, coordinate their efforts. Leone says the Boston bombings are on the minds of first responders across the region.  He adds the lessons learned from the "9/11" attacks in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania have been a big help.  Leone says it's created a level of "heightened awareness..." and increased "our level of preparedness."  He says the agencies worked together on a regular basis since no one agency can do it on their own.  They often do drills together to make sure they are ready.  Leone adds that Monday and Tuesday's meetings in Batavia were scheduled long before the bombings.

 

Media One News has learned of at least one runner from the Jamestown-area took part in yesterday's (Monday's) marathon.  That person is a competitive runner... who finished about an hour ahead of the two-bomb blasts that took place just over 4-hours into the historic road-race.  He finished, and word is he should be okay.  However... the runner is not being identified at this point... because the group he's involved with has not heard from him yet.  Once they do... they will let us know.  The Warren Times-Observer also reports two runners from Warren... one a college student... finished early and were okay.

 

Law enforcers say New York City remains in a heightened state of alert until more is known about the Boston explosions.  More officers are working around New York, including counterterrorism units and beefed up patrols.  The major focuses include landmark locations such as the Empire State Building and World Trade Center site. Subways and commuter rails are also getting an extra dose of protection.  Mayor Michael Bloomberg -- and his security detail -- took the subway on Tuesday to show that it's safe.

 

The major fund-raiser for Jamestown's largest soup kitchen is underway.  The 13th annual 'Cents for St. Susan's' campaign officially kicked-off Tuesday at the Board of Public Utilities on Steele Street.  The BPU spearheads the effort... and, Spokeswoman Becky Robbins says since the BPU is a government entity... it cannot directly give money to local charities.  However... Robbins they want to do what they can to help the St. Susan's Center provide a much needed service.  At the same time... she says they have more than a dozen sponsors who also help out. The Media One Group is one of the sponsors involved.  St. Susan's Executive Director Sue Colwell says the fund-raiser is critical because the number of meals they serve continues to rise.  Last year... they provided just over 98-thousand meals.  Colwell adds that they provide one meal a day to people -- seven days a week.  The campaign has raised about 13-thousand dollars each of the past two years.  The campaign continues through mid-June.

 

The county legislature is being asked to consider spending 4-million dollars to build a new Public Facilities Shop in Falconer.  DPF Director George Spanos says the Falconer shop... which is one of three in the county... is also the main headquarters for the DPF.  However... Spanos says it has NOT been upgraded since it was first built in 1927.  Spanos updated lawmakers at the Public Facilities Committee meeting Monday night... saying it's no longer a functional structure.  He made recommendations about a new facility that can handle today's bigger, heavy duty equipment. Spanos says there have been studies of the building in the past... but, the next step to upgrade and expand the building has never taken place.  He says they have to leave doors open in the shop in order to maintain their vehicles and equipment... which he says is a problem in the Winter months.  Spanos knows money is tight... but, is pleased a couple of committee members will soon tour the shop so a decision can be made on replacing the structure.  He hopes more lawmakers will tour the facility.

 

A Jamestown-area woman is the winner of this year's Chautauqua Lake Ice Pick contest.  The event was held again this year since there was little to no ice last Winter.  The contest benefits the Chautauqua Lake Association... and, CLA President Doug Conroe says the pick was placed on solid ice around Bemus Bay early this past February.  More than 500 people guessed when the ice would melt... and, the pick would go into the water.  Conroe says that happened about 3:45 PM on Tuesday, April 9th.  He says the person closest to picking that day and time was Brooke Sheesley. Conroe says the Chautauqua Lake Ice Pick contest is based on a successful Alaskan tradition.  It started as people were waiting for the ice to break on the Tanana River in the late Spring.  The pick is actually a tri-pod that holds a clock that stops on the time and day the pick melts through the ice.  This year's event has raised 58-hundred dollars for the CLA's lake maintenance program.

 

 

News Update for Tues. Apr. 16, 2013

NYC law enforcement remains on heightened alert after Boston Marathon bombings...

Law enforcers say New York City remains in a heightened state of alert until more is known about the Boston explosions.  More officers are working around New York, including counterterrorism units and beefed up patrols.  The major focuses include landmark locations such as the Empire State Building and World Trade Center site. Subways and commuter rails are also getting an extra dose of protection.  Mayor Michael Bloomberg -- and his security detail -- took the subway on Tuesday to show that it's safe.  Around the financial district, the security measures looked the same as they always do.  Bloomberg noted Monday that some of the steps will be noticeable -- and others will not be.  There have been no reports of any specific threats against the city.


Media One learns at least one Jamestown-area resident ran in Marathon... but, finished well-ahead of the bombings...

Media One News has learned of at least one runner from the Jamestown-area took part in Monday's marathon.  That person is a competitive runner... who finished about an hour ahead of the two-bomb blasts that took place just over 4-hours into the historic road-race.  He finished, and word is he should be okay.  However... the runner is not being identified at this point... because the group he's involved with has not heard from him yet.  Once they do... they will let us know.


No extra blood donations needed in wake of Boston Marathon Bombings... but, local blood bank presses need to keep blood supply current...

The investigation continues into Monday's terrorist bombings at the Boston Marathon.  In the meantime... it appears there is enough blood available to help the injured.  Dan Desrochers of the Community Blood Bank of Western New York says it was fortunate that such a disaster occurred in April... and, not during the summer.  Desrochers says the incident may have "played out a little differently" if it occured in June, July or August.  He says it doesn't appear likely the local blood bank will need to provide any extra blood to help with bombings.  However, he says it points to the importance of keeping a strong local blood supply... and, having a "cushion."  Desrochers says the local blood is in a good shape.  He says a number drives have been held in area schools including one last week on the State University College at Fredonia campus. 


Buffalo Marathon organizers say there will be tighter security at it's May 26 run...

Organizers of the Buffalo Marathon say runners in next month's event can expect tighter security measures in the wake of the deadly bomb explosions at the finish line of the Boston Marathon.  Buffalo Marathon Director John Beishline tells local media that his group had already instituted an idea borrowed from their Boston counterparts, who set up an emergency command center near the finish line for distressed runners.  After Monday's two explosions... the center was used to treat people injured in the blasts.  The Buffalo Marathon's first emergency command center was set up for the first time for last year's race and will be there again when the 12th annual event is held May 26.  The Buffalo Police Department and other law enforcement agencies will provide security during the race.


County's DPF Director outlines need for new Falconer Shop sometime soon...

Chautauqua County lawmakers are being asked to consider construction of a new, $4-million Public Facilities Shop in Falconer.  The Falconer shop... which is one of three in the county... is also the main headquarters for the DPF.  However... it's had no upgrades since it was first built in 1927... and, DPF Director George Spanos says it's no longer functional.  Spanos updated the legislature's Public Facilities Committee about the situation... and his recommendations.  He says they need a building that can accomodate today's bigger, heavy duty equipment.  In Summer, he says the doors can be left open to help maintain equipment.  In the Winter, though, that becomes difficult because plows can't go inside with the trucks.  Spanos says there have been studies of the building in the past... but, the next step to upgrade and expand the building never occured.  He says the trucks they use are no longer the smaller, single-axle models that could fit into the shop.  Spanos knows money is tight... but, is pleased a couple of committee members will soon tour the shop so a decision can be made on replacing the structure.  He's hoping more will also tour the facility.  Spanos says he wanted to make the committee "aware" of what's going on at the Falconer shop.  He says the Sheridan Shop in the north county is the DPF's most modern building... while the Sherman Shop is under review for a capital project which, if approved by the state, would put the town, village and county in one facility.


Special grant awarded to SUNY College at Oswego to study Lake Effect Snow...

An upstate New York college located in one of the snowiest places in the nation is getting a $320,000 federal grant to study lake-effect snow storms.  The State University College at Oswego is one of four getting a portion of the nearly $4-million grant from the National Science Foundation to gather data with the help of an airplane, Doppler radar-equipped trucks and weather-profiling instruments.  The work will be done in conjunction with several other colleges.  Meteorology students and faculty at SUNY Oswego, located on Lake Ontario's eastern end, will study lake-effect storms whose snow bands run parallel to the shoreline... and, can dump several feet of snow in a matter of hours in central New York.


 

News Update for Mon., Apr. 15, 2013

IRS Spokeswoman says time running out for filing taxes; but, you can file for extension...

If you haven't filed your 2012 tax return yet... you have until Midnight tonight.  That from IRS New York Spokeswoman Diane Besunder... who says if you aren't able to make the filing deadline... you can file for a six-month extension.  However... Besunder says if you file Form 4868... you have to include your payment if you owe the federal or state governments money.  She says it's only for paperwork, and last's until Oct. 15.  You also have to include a "best estimate" of what taxes, if any, you owe  Besunder says you can file for that on their website at www.irs.gov.  The "Free File" option is available to filers who make $57,000 a year or less... and, Besunder says the e-file options are available though Oct. 15.  She says if you're filing your own taxes... make sure to double-check for common errors.  There are two in particular... one is signing the form, and the other is having the right social security numbers for you, your spouse, and dependents.  Besunder says if you have you're return ready... but, don't have the money to pay if you owe money back... you can file... and, make as much of a payment as you can.  She says there are various arrangments you can make to pay-off your tax debt... including paying in installments.


On this Tax Day, 2013, Congressman Reed says progress being made on tax reform...

As last minute filers work on their tax returns... Congressman Tom Reed says progress is being made in Washington when it comes to achieving comprehensive tax reform.  Reed, who is a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, says there are several bi-partisan working groups now looking at ways to make the tax code simpler and fairer.  He says there's been a shift from a year-and-a-half ago when he first went on the committee, and people were saying "don't waste you're time on it, it's not going to happen."  While lawmakers have come a long way... Reed says the White House needs to take the lead.  He says they not only have to include corporate tax reform... but, address the impact on individuals as well.  Reed says a more "common sense approach" is needed to the nation's tax code which totals over 70,000 pages... and, costs Americans nearly $160-billion each year to navigate.


One person hurt in two-car crash Monday morning in town of Ellery...

A Brocton woman was hurt in a two-car accident on Route 380 in the town of Ellery Monday morning that led to the other driver being ticketed for using a cell phone.  Sheriff's officers say 34 year-old Jeremy Ranney of Stockton was southbound shortly after 8 a.m. when he went to make a left turn onto Sinclair Drive Extension.  Deputies say the other driver... 40 year-old Holly Roman... was also southbound, and tried to pass in a no passing zone.  However... her car struck Ranney's.  Roman was taken to WCA Hospital for treatment of injuries.  Ranney was not hurt.  He is charged with use of cell phone... and, having an uninspected motor vehicle.  Roman was ticketed for passing in a now passing zone.


Standardized testing for English and math begin today in NYS...

Standardized testing of 3rd-through 8th-graders on English and math begins in New York's public schools today.  But... parents and school boards are speaking out about the Common Core standards... and, what they see as an over-emphasis on testing.  One school board voted to tell the state education commissioner the tests negatively impact students -- and parents on Long Island are opting to exempt their children from the testing.  The head of the state's teachers union, Dick Iannuzzi, says students are going to be tested on material they haven't been taught yet.  He says polling commissioned by his union showed 91-percent of parents say students have not had enough time to work with the Common Core learning standards.  The Department of Education says the assessments are designed to improve classroom instruction and get better results in the graduation rate and college and career readiness.


JHS Winterguard brings home Silver Medal from World Championships in Ohio...

"Ambition" and "determination" were the key ingredients that pushed the Jamestown High School Express Winterguard to win a silver medal in the World Championships at Dayton, Ohio late last week.  In fact... they came within 5-one-thousandths of a point to taking the gold medal.  A team from Bellbrook, Ohio edged out Jamestown in the finals.  The Jamestown squad was welcomed by a police and fire escort when they returned home last night.  Senior Winterguard member Lexi Paulson says starting out the season... they never really expected to do so well this year.  Lexi says they've become such a "strong family..." and, they just really wanted to do well.  Director Marc Lentsch says when the results came out late Friday night... the team was a little disappointed... but only for a short time.  He says their season was more about performing, friends and family.  Winterguard takes the tools of the outdoor color guard inside... to tell a story to music.  Jamestown High School finished 24th in the finals last year.  As a result of Express Winterguard's great finish this year... the team will move up next year from the "Scholastic A Division"  to the "Scholastic Open DIvision."

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines 4:42am 4/15/2013

 

The Jamestown High School Express Winterguard won a silver medal in the World Championships at Dayton, Ohio late last week... and came ever so close to taking gold.  A team from Bellbrook, Ohio beat out Jamestown by 5 one-thousandths of a point.  The Jamestown squad was welcomed by a police and fire escort when they returned home last night.  Director Marc Lentsch says when the results came out late Friday night... the team was a little disappointed... but only for a short time. Winterguard takes the tools of the outdoor color guard inside... to tell a story to music.  Jamestown High School finished 24th in the finals last year.  Brianna Harris, one of nine seniors in the winterguard this year, credits their success to a 'family vibe' in the group.
As a result of Express Winterguard's great finish this year... the team will move up next year from the "Scholastic A Division'  to the 'Scholastic Open DIvision'.  Marc Lentsch believes they will be ready to compete in the tougher division. 

 

An Ashville man is accused of driving drunk after his car went off Hoag Road in the town of Harmony... and, crashed into a ditch early Sunday morning.  Sheriff's Deputies say 26 year-old Andrew Sheldon was northbound about 3:45 AM when he left the roadway... and, the vehicle struck the ditch.  Officers say Sheldon was allegedly driving drunk at the time.  He was not hurt... but, was arrestd for driving while intoxicated.  He was also charged with Aggravated DWI... moving from lane unsafely, and operating out of class.  Officers say she was released to a responsible third party... pending a future appearance in Harmony Town Court.

 

A bizzare crash involving a pick-up truck and a car resulted in the car -- minus the driver -- crashing into the porch of house on Jamestown's southside.  City police say the truck... driven by 28 year-old Vincent Delmonaco of Jamestown... ran a red light on Forest Avenue at Newland shortly after 6 o'clock last Friday night.  Officers say the pick-up collided with a small sedan, being driven by a 17 year-old youth.  The teen... along with four others in the car... got out following the accident.  However... the juvenile left the vehicle in gear... and, the unoccupied car went south on Forest Avenue.  Police say it first damaged some property at 262 Forest Avenue before colliding with the porch at 251 Forest.  Officers say Delmonaco is charged with passing a red light.  The 17 year-old permit holder faces charges including unlicensed operatIon... and, operating without a 21 year-old supervisor. 

 

"Mike Kelly really is music at JCC."  That's what the college's President, Greg Decinque said Sunday during a faculty recital filled with tributes the school's coordinator of music. Mike Kelly joined the faculty of Jamestown Community College in 1974, and will retire from full time work after this semester.  He's credited with taking a music department of 'one course and a chorus' and building it into a full curriculum with a degree program.  Kelly says it was advice from his father that brought him to Jamestown. Mike Kelly says he may teach a course or two... part time... ever after his retirement. 

 

Jamestown's mayor says he's very pleased that one item was taken out of the recently-approved New York state budget for further discussion.  Sam Teresi says Governor Cuomo insisted that the legislature take out an unprecidented, 4-year extension of binding arbitration.  Binding arbitration is part of the state's Taylor Law that has a state panel impose a contract for unionized police and firefighters who have reacted a stalemate with the local city or village involved.  Typically... the employees receive a wage increase for the life of the contract.  Teresi credits Cuomo for standing his ground on taking that out. With that... Teresi says the governor and state legislative leaders have agreed to discuss it as a "stand-alone" item.  At the very least... he's hoping there's a chance for Cuomo's proposed 2-percent cap on arbitration awards to be approved.  Many local governments are hoping the measure simply won't be renewed... feeling it's outdated.  Teresi made his comments on this past weekend's "Community Spotlight" program.

 

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli is giving mixed reviews to the state budget passed last month as New York still struggles with financial challenges following the national recession and massive storms.  DiNapoli credits Governor Andrew Cuomo and the Legislature for restraining spending growth and completing the 136-billion dollar spending plan on time, a positive signal to bond markets and taxpayers.  But... he says they failed to rein in backdoor borrowing and expanded the use of debt by public authorities... including 385-million dollars for state and local facilities and $750 million related to unspecified transportation needs.  In addition to 5.1-billion dollars in federal aid for Superstorm Sandy, his report notes the budget relies on another 4-billion dollars of non-recurring funds.
 

News Update for Fri., Apr. 11, 2013

**(New!!)Engvall to headline at Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in Jamestown this coming August...

One of the most "in-demand" comedians in the nation will be the main headliner for this year's Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in Jamestown.  Comedian and Actor Bill Engvall will be on stage at the Reg Lenna Civic Center on Saturday, August 3rd. That from Lucille Ball-Desi Arnaz Executive Director Journey Gunderson... who announced this year's line up during a Noon-hour press conference at the Gateway Train Station.  Female Comic Kathleen Madigan is the other headliner on that Friday night.  The fesitval runs Aug. 1-4, 2013.


Kennedy man seriously hurt in serious, single-car accident in West Ellicott...

A serious one-vehicle crash on Fairmount Avenue in West Ellicott Thursday night has sent a Jamestown-area man to an Erie, Pennsylvania hospital.  Ellicott Town Police say the 22 year-old Kennedy man... who is not being identified... was eastbound at a high rate of speed when he lost control of the car near the SAM's Club entrance about 10:40 p.m.  Ellicott Police Detective Brad Knight says the vehicle struck and wrapped around a utility pole.  An employee of the nearby Kwik Fill station called in the accident.  Police say a hurst tool was used to free the man... who suffered severe leg injuries.  The victim was rushed to the Hamot Medical Center in Erie for treatment via ambulance.  Starflight was unavailable due to the weather conditions.  We have no word on the man's condition... but, the investigation is continuing.


JHS Winterguard leads it's division after preliminaries at World Competition in Dayton, Ohio...

The Jamestown High School Winterguard Express has been the top ranked Winter Guard team in the U-S for the past several months... but, they're now trying to become the number-one team in the world.  The world competition is taking place in Dayton, Ohio... and, the Jamestown team is the top-ranked group in it's division as the move to semi-final action later today.  Coach Marc Lentch says they scored an 89.08 score in last night's preliminary round... which he called "very solid."  Winterguard performs by using precise synronized movements and dance to music.  While the veteran team is focused and working hard to perfect it's routine... Lentch says they're just 3-tenths of a point ahead... and, he adds the competition only get's tougher from here.  But, he says they're "veteran" performers and, can handle it.  Lentch says Jamestown finished 24th at this competition last year... and, was the runner-up in 1981.  He says if they win the competition... it will be their first.  The competition is taking place at four venues... including the University of Dayton... and, Xavier University in Cinncinati.  The semi-finals are this afternoon... with Jamestown performing at about 3:50 p.m.  The finals are tonight from 7 to 9 p.m.  Final results won't be known until about 11 to 11:30.

 

 

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines 4-12-13  4:58am

 

The Jamestown-area remains under a Flood Watch through late this afternoon.  Forecaster Jim Mitchell with the National Weather Service in Buffalo says -- as a whole -- the region has received more than an inch of rain over the past two-plus days.  Some of that was "frozen rain" more to our north and east.  Mitchell says many areas have received up to 2 inches of rain.  He says it won't be raining all the time... but, will continue to hit parts of the region in "waves."  Mitchell says that's due to a stationary front just to our south. With that... Mitchell says that means some parts of the area could wind up with 4 inches of rain over the course of 3-and-a-half days.  Our first major wave hit late yesterday afternoon... and, caused high water in many parts of the area.  Mitchell says the frontal boundary that's causing this will remain in place... and, bring cold air... and, rain to the region.  He says we may also see a "little" snow in the area by the weekend... with the pattern breaking up by Sunday.

 

We do have one road closing due to flooding from the rains of the past few days.  The county's Department of Public Facilities reports that Kabob Road... between Route 380 and Waterman Road in the town of Stockton... has been shut-down.  DPF officials say the closure will remain in effect until the water recedes... and, the barricades are removed.

 

There's a year to go before another Congressional campaign gets underway... but, the chairwoman of the Tompkins County Legislature wants to get a head start.  That's why Martha Robertson is in Chautauqua County Thursday announcing her candidacy for the 23rd Congressional District.  Robertson says she announced her candidacy in Dunkirk... and, later Jamestown... more than a year before next year's contest because it's a big district. Robertson wants to challenge current, GOP Congressman Tom Reed because she feels he is not representing the best interests of district residents.  The Democrat questions the priorities of the current House leadership. A fellow legislator of Robertson took on Reed last November... but, Nate Shinagawa lost by a rather narrow margin.  Shinagawa recently decided not to seek a possible rematch.  However... Robertson says Shinagawa will serve as her campaign chairman.

 

Former Lieutenant Governor Richard Ravitch was in Albany Thursday warning about a fiscal crisis for local governments in New York.  It's also a message he's been delivering nationally as well.  Ravitch sounded the same alarm as lieutenant governor under former Governor David Paterson.  But... many of his long-term fiscal proposals, while praised by financial experts, were ignored by lawmakers as the state fiscal crisis worsened.  Ravitch has since been a partner with former Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker in the ``State Budget Crisis Task Force.''  Ravitch is well-known for helping New York City out of it's fiscal mess in the 1970s.

 

The Jamestown School Board has named six teams that will be involved in the final interviews for a new school superintendent.  Board President Joe DiMaio also says the district has made the first cut of candidates that will be interviewed for the district's top post.  Following this week's board meeting... DiMaio said they named the teams after consultant David O'Rourke solicited participation from faculty... staff... and community groups who have a long history of involvement with the district.  He says they're pleased with what O'Rourke came up with. DiMaio says the teams... which were finalized at a closed-door meeting of the board... include one for Community Members and Parents.... and, another for Staff.  The others include Support Staff... principals and coordinators... Central Office Administrators... and, High School Students.  DiMaio says they started with approximately 18 potential candidates... and, now have a solid number to begin interviewing. Board officials say all team members will take part in a training and confidential interview question development meeting on April 17th.  Interviews with the three final candidates are scheduled to take place May 6th... 7th... and, 9th.  Current Superintendent Deke Kathman will is retiring at the end of the current school year.

 

A Hornell man suffered "non-life threatening" injuries in a single-car crash on Interstate 86 in the town of Poland yesterday morning in the town of Poland.  Sheriff's Deputies received a report of the accident -- near the Kennedy Exit -- shortly before 8:30 AM.  Officers say their investigation showed that the vehicle... driven by 67 year-old Rodney Milliner... was eastbound when -- for an unknown reason -- the car veered off the northside of the highway, and, struck a guide rail.  Officers say the vehicle then slid about 300 feet into a roadside ditch.  Milliner was transported to WCA Hospital for treatment.  Deputies say charges are pending.


 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines 4-12-13  4:58am

 

The Jamestown-area remains under a Flood Watch through late this afternoon.  Forecaster Jim Mitchell with the National Weather Service in Buffalo says -- as a whole -- the region has received more than an inch of rain over the past two-plus days.  Some of that was "frozen rain" more to our north and east.  Mitchell says many areas have received up to 2 inches of rain.  He says it won't be raining all the time... but, will continue to hit parts of the region in "waves."  Mitchell says that's due to a stationary front just to our south. With that... Mitchell says that means some parts of the area could wind up with 4 inches of rain over the course of 3-and-a-half days.  Our first major wave hit late yesterday afternoon... and, caused high water in many parts of the area.  Mitchell says the frontal boundary that's causing this will remain in place... and, bring cold air... and, rain to the region.  He says we may also see a "little" snow in the area by the weekend... with the pattern breaking up by Sunday.

 

We do have one road closing due to flooding from the rains of the past few days.  The county's Department of Public Facilities reports that Kabob Road... between Route 380 and Waterman Road in the town of Stockton... has been shut-down.  DPF officials say the closure will remain in effect until the water recedes... and, the barricades are removed.

 

There's a year to go before another Congressional campaign gets underway... but, the chairwoman of the Tompkins County Legislature wants to get a head start.  That's why Martha Robertson is in Chautauqua County Thursday announcing her candidacy for the 23rd Congressional District.  Robertson says she announced her candidacy in Dunkirk... and, later Jamestown... more than a year before next year's contest because it's a big district. Robertson wants to challenge current, GOP Congressman Tom Reed because she feels he is not representing the best interests of district residents.  The Democrat questions the priorities of the current House leadership. A fellow legislator of Robertson took on Reed last November... but, Nate Shinagawa lost by a rather narrow margin.  Shinagawa recently decided not to seek a possible rematch.  However... Robertson says Shinagawa will serve as her campaign chairman.

 

Former Lieutenant Governor Richard Ravitch was in Albany Thursday warning about a fiscal crisis for local governments in New York.  It's also a message he's been delivering nationally as well.  Ravitch sounded the same alarm as lieutenant governor under former Governor David Paterson.  But... many of his long-term fiscal proposals, while praised by financial experts, were ignored by lawmakers as the state fiscal crisis worsened.  Ravitch has since been a partner with former Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker in the ``State Budget Crisis Task Force.''  Ravitch is well-known for helping New York City out of it's fiscal mess in the 1970s.

 

The Jamestown School Board has named six teams that will be involved in the final interviews for a new school superintendent.  Board President Joe DiMaio also says the district has made the first cut of candidates that will be interviewed for the district's top post.  Following this week's board meeting... DiMaio said they named the teams after consultant David O'Rourke solicited participation from faculty... staff... and community groups who have a long history of involvement with the district.  He says they're pleased with what O'Rourke came up with. DiMaio says the teams... which were finalized at a closed-door meeting of the board... include one for Community Members and Parents.... and, another for Staff.  The others include Support Staff... principals and coordinators... Central Office Administrators... and, High School Students.  DiMaio says they started with approximately 18 potential candidates... and, now have a solid number to begin interviewing. Board officials say all team members will take part in a training and confidential interview question development meeting on April 17th.  Interviews with the three final candidates are scheduled to take place May 6th... 7th... and, 9th.  Current Superintendent Deke Kathman will is retiring at the end of the current school year.

 

A Hornell man suffered "non-life threatening" injuries in a single-car crash on Interstate 86 in the town of Poland yesterday morning in the town of Poland.  Sheriff's Deputies received a report of the accident -- near the Kennedy Exit -- shortly before 8:30 AM.  Officers say their investigation showed that the vehicle... driven by 67 year-old Rodney Milliner... was eastbound when -- for an unknown reason -- the car veered off the northside of the highway, and, struck a guide rail.  Officers say the vehicle then slid about 300 feet into a roadside ditch.  Milliner was transported to WCA Hospital for treatment.  Deputies say charges are pending.


 

News Update for Apr. 11, 2013

More rain, and possible flooding in the forecast through late Friday...

We had some heavy rain showers in the Jamestown-area late yesterday afternoon... and, the National Weather Service is continuing a Flood Watch for the area from now through Friday afternoon for much of the region.  Forecaster Jim Mitchell in Buffalo says a major weather system will continue to bring "waves" of rain through the end of the week.  Mitchell says a stalled frontal boundary has been "hanging over" this part of the state through early Saturday.  He says the typical areas will likely be impacted.  Most of the region will receive up to 4 inches of rain by the time the weather pattern breaks by Friday night.  A Freezing Rain Advisory that had been issued has now been cancelled because warmer air was over our part of the region.


Heavy, late afternoon storm brings high water; road closure to Chautauqua County...

There were a few problems due to the severe thunderstorm that rumbled through the Jamestown-area late yesterday afternoon.  The storm struck shortly before 4 p.m., and brought heavy rain that filled ditches to overflowing.  The Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office reported high water on Mall Boulevard... and, Summit Avenue in Lakewood.  However... neither road was ever closed.  Route 474 between Booker and Weeks Road in the Town of Harmony was closed about an hour early last night after a tree came down across the road.  The County's Department of Public Facilities this morning announced the closing of Kabob Road between Route 380 and Waterman Road in the town of Stockton due to flooding.  Barricades have been put up.


Falconer man arrested for alleged "Deerjacking..."

A Falconer man has been charged with dozens of offenses for allegedly shooting deer illegal using a method called "deerjacking" from his car at night.  The state Department of Environmental Conservation reports 60 year-old Bruce Giddy faces 54 misdemeanor counts... including 46 violations of environmental conservation laws, following a four month investigation.  DEC officials say En-Con police began their investigation in November when a deer was shot on the grounds Bush Elementary School in Jamestown during Thanksgiving weekend.  Giddy faces charges include deer jacking... which is the illegal practice of shooting deer with the use of an artificial light.  Officials say they have linked Giddy to several similar incidents over a four-month period where deer had been shot in residential areas and left behind.


Cassadaga Valley School District voters overwhelming approve water project...  

Voters in the Cassadaga Valley School District approved a nearly $1.5-million water project by an overwhelming margin.  The proposition cleared 146 to 14.  School officials say the district will use State building aid and EXCEL funding to cover most of the cost and the project is not expected to impact district tax rates.


Gas prices down again this week in Jamestown-area...

Springtime is bringing some relief at the gas pump in the Jamestown-area.  The AAA's Fuel Gauge Report says local prices for regular, unleaded gas fell to $3.87 per gallon this week... making it the third week in a row of decreasing prices.  That's a six-cent drop over last week.  The AAA says the recent price decreases are not reflective of lower crude oil prices, which have actually increased during the downward pricing trend.  Falling gas prices have instead been the result of an increase in refinery production... and, economic worries, which have raised demand concerns.  The current, national retail price per gallon is now $3.58 per gallon... which is down 5-cents since last week.  It is also 34 cents less than a year ago.

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines

 

We had some heavy rain showers in the Jamestown-area late yesterday afternoon... and, the National Weather Service is continuing a Flood Watch for the area from now through Friday afternoon for much of the region.  Forecaster Jim Mitchell in Buffalo says a major weather system will bring waves of rain over the next several days.  Mitchell says a stalled frontal boundary will be "hanging over" the state through early Saturday.  He says the typical areas will likely be impacted. In addition to the 2 to 3 inches of rain that'll trigger some minor flooding... Mitchell says they have also issued a Freezing Rain Advisory from 8 this morning until 11 PM this evening for an area just inland from the Lake Erie shoreline... and, north of Interstate 86.  Ice accumulations in the higher elevations of up to one-tenth of an inch is possible.

 

There were a few problems due to the severe thunderstorm that rumbled through the Jamestown-area late yesterday afternoon.  The storm struck shortly before 4 PM... and brought heavy rain that filled ditches to overflowing.  The Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office reported high water on Mall Boulevard... and, Summit Avenue in Lakewood.  However... neither road was ever closed.  Route 474 between Booker and Weeks Road in the Town of Harmony was closed about an hour early last night after a tree came down across the road.

 

A Falconer man has been charged with dozens of offenses for allegedly shooting deer illegal using a method called "deerjacking" from his car at night.  The state Department of Environmental Conservation reports 60 year-old Bruce Giddy faces 54 misdemeanor counts... including 46 violations of environmental conservation laws, following a four month investigation.  DEC officials say En-Con police began their investigation in November when a deer was shot on the grounds Bush Elementary School in Jamestown during Thanksgiving weekend.  Giddy faces charges include deer jacking... which is the illegal practice of shooting deer with the use of an artificial light.  Officials say they have linked Giddy to several similar incidents over a four-month period where deer had been shot in residential areas and left behind.   

 

Voters in the Cassadaga Valley School District approved a nearly 1.5-million dollar water project by an overwhelming margin.  The proposition cleared 146 to 14.  School officials say the district will use State building aid and EXCEL funding to cover most of the cost and the project is not expected to impact district tax rates.

 

Southern Tier Congressman Tom Reed is among a group of bi-partisan House members pushing for key agricultural reforms that would be included in comprehensive immigration reform legislation.  During a conference call with reporters yesterday (Tuesday) afternoon... Reed says the broken H-2A program must be transformed to create a "guest worker program" for immigrant workers on dairy farms, and others. Reed says the expansion of the program is needed to allow the ag industry to reach its full potential.  The Corning Republican says the legislation is about helping New York state's number-one industry.  Northern New York congressman Bill Owens and Vermont congressman Peter Welch are the primary sponsors of the legislation.

 

Springtime is bringing some relief at the gas pump in the Jamestown-area.  The Triple-A's Fuel Gauge Report says local prices for regular, unleaded gas fell to 3-dollars-87 cents per gallon this week... making it the third week in a row of decreasing prices.  That's a six-cent drop over last week.  The Triple-A says the recent price decreases are not reflective of lower crude oil prices, which have actually increased during the downward pricing trend.  Falling gas prices have instead been the result of an increase in refinery production... and, economic worries, which have raised demand concerns.  The current, national retail price per gallon is now 3-dollars-58 cents per gallon... which is down 5-cents since last week.  It is also 34 cents less than a year ago.

 

It's a chance to have fun with the "coolest game on ice..." and raise money for a worthwhile cause at the same time.  The Jamestown Ironmen Junior-"A" hockey team hosts it's first play-off game ever Friday night... and, it'll be "Pink the Rink" night at the Jamestown Savings Bank Arena.  The Ironmen play Kalamazoo at 7 PM... and, have joined with WCA Hospital to put on the event.  WCA Director of Development Karl Sisson is encouraging people to wear "pink" that night in support of breast cancer survivors. Sisson says they'll have a number of activities going on... including a Benefit Basket Auction... to help raise money for new equipment for breast cancer treatment at the hospital.  If you say "pink" when you buy your ticket... 2-dollars from each purchase will benefit LINKS Charity and WCA Hospital.  Ironmen Coach Dan Daikawa (Die-uh-KOW-Ah) says they're excited to be involved in another "Pink the Rink" event.  Daikawa says there's been breast cancer in his family... and, he's hoping people will come out and support the effort -- and take in the hockey.  For more information... or to order tickets... call the arena at 484-2624.

 

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli says several major companies have agreed to disclose more information about spending on political causes.  DiNapoli has been using his authority as the trustee of the state pension fund to pressure companies into disclosing the information.

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines 4:44am  4/10/13

 

Fire has moderated damaged a two-family home on Jamestown's northside that's declared uninhabitable by the city due to the conditions inside.  That from Fire Battlion Chief Sam Salemme... who says firefighters were called to the scene at 14 Bishop Street just after 4 o'clock yesterday afternoon.  Salemme says crews found heavy smoke coming from both floors on arrival.  He says it took about half-an-hour to bring the blaze under control.
Salemme did not elaborate on those reasons... but, does say firefighters had some problems getting occupants to stay out of the home because they had a number of pets they were trying to rescue.  He says none of the 12 tenants... nor firefighters... were hurt.  An off-duty shift was called in to assist.  Combustables too close to a hot water heater in the basement is the apparent cause of the blaze.  Firefighters were at the scene nearly two-hours.

 

 A one-time offer by the state to hold down pension costs will help the Jamestown school district avoid any lay-offs in the 2013-2014 budget... but, avoid a tax increase.  The school board last night agreed to use New York's proposed "Pension Smoothing" program to cut the amount the district will have to pay next year by 656-thousand dollars.  They also agreed to use more money from the district's "rainy day" fund.  School Superintendent Deke Kathman says the move will prevent at least half of a projected 12 lay-offs in the spending plan.  Kathman laid out "7 or 8 options" to deal with a 1.57-million dollar shortfall. Under "Pension Smoothing..." the district will see a 2.2-percent reduction in the amount of money it has to pay to the state's pension fund.  Assistant Superintendent for Administration Dale Weatherlow says the district can take advantage of the lower costs for five years... but, then will have to "play catch-up" over the next five.  District officials hope their state aid situation will stablize before that.  In the final state aid runs... Jamestown only received another 132-thousand dollars.  The school board also agreed to use another 145-thousand dollars from the unappropriated fund balance to avoid ANY personnel cuts.  The board will act on a final budget plan April 23rd.

 

Governor Andrew Cuomo has proposed legislation to give state prosecutors more power to combat public corruption.  The ``Public Trust Act'' he wants to see enacted this year would create new crimes and increase penalties for violating existing anti-corruption laws.  The package of measures announced Tuesday would establish the new crimes bribing a public official, scheming to corrupt the government, and failing to report incidents of public corruption.  Politicians could face a misdemeanor charge for failing to report corruption by a colleague, a new and novel approach to combatting decades of corruption in New York politics.  U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said last week that government corruption is rampant in Albany.  State politicians were arrested last week in two bribery cases brought by Bharara.

 

A Findley Lake man was killed when his car crashed after he was chased from a Wal-Mart near Erie, Pennsylvania... where state police say he was stealing DVDs.  Erie County Coroner Lyell Cook says 31 year-old Jeremy Guzowski died when he was thrown from his vehicle which crashed about 2:30 PM Monday in Harborcreek Township.  Sergeant Mark Zaleski says an off-duty trooper spotted the man leaving the store after loss-prevention workers confronted him.  When Guzowski fled, on-duty troopers gave chase but eventually backed off because the suspect was driving so fast.  Zaleski says Guzowski's car hit a tree, ejecting him from the vehicle.

 

It was an historic night in Lakewood Monday at the village board's annual re-organizational meeting.  Trustee Sue Drago was sworn-in for her first, full-term on the panel... and, she was also named by Mayor David Wordelmann to be the village's first woman deputy mayor.  It's the first time a female has held one of the top two political posts in Lakewood.  Wordleman it was a "great honor" to name her... and, adds she is "well deserving" of the post.
Wordelmann says Drago does a lot of work "behind the scenes..." reading up on issues before the village board... and, working on policy.  He adds that she takes the position seriously... and, makes an appearance at most every event held in the village.  Wordelmann says she's a "very good trustee... and, we need people like that."  She was appointed to fill Wordelmann's spot on the board nearly two years ago after he was elected Mayor following the death of late, long-time mayor, Tony Caprino. New Democratic lawmaker David DiSalvo... who won the other trustee's seat last March... was unable to attend last night's board meeting.  However... he had taken the written oath of office.  He will go through the "ceremonial" swearing in at the board's next meeting.

 

The village of Celoron has a new mayor.  The village board Monday night nominated... and, appointed Scot Schreckengost to replace the late Jack Keeney.  Keeney passed away last month after battling Cancer.  Schrecengost had been interim mayor until Monday night by virture of being Deputy Mayor.  Village Clerk Shirley Sanfilippo says he was sworn-in after being approved as new Mayor.  In addition... resident Steve Grundstrom was appointed by Schrecengost to replace him on the village board.  Grundstrom has been a member of the village Planning Board.

 

A Gerry man faces a drunk driving charge after his car went off a road in the town of Cherry Creek Monday night... and, crashed into a ditch.  Sheriff's Deputies say 27 year-old Charles Houser-the-second was northbound on Route 83 when his vehicle went off the eastside of the roadway.  Officers say Houser's car struck a fence... and, came to rest in a ditch.  He was not hurt... but, deputies say further investigation found Houser was drunk.  He's been charged with DWI... Aggravated DWI... Failure to Stay in Lane... and, other traffic violations.  Houser was issued appearance tickets for Cherry Creek Town Court.

News Update for Tues., Apr. 9, 2013

Sue Drago becomes first woman Deputy Mayor ever in Lakewood...

History was made in Lakewood Monday night during the village board's annual re-organizational meeting.  Trustee Sue Drago was sworn-in for her first, full-term on the panel... and, she was also named by Mayor David Wordelmann to be the village's first woman deputy mayor.  It's the first time a female has held one of the top two positions in Lakewood.  Wordelmann says while it's historic... it's more a reflection on what kind of trustee she's been.  He says she's well-read on village matters... and, takes the position seriously.  Wordelmann adds she's "very consciencous..." and, shows up for most every event.  He adds she's been a "very good" trustee, and "we need people like that."  Wordelmann says their positions are all part-time... and, it's important that people get into local politics to serve the village... "not their own ego."  He adds this is a well-deserved honor for Drago... who had some background in politics before she was appointed to fill Wordelmann's spot on the board.  Her family has been heavily-involved in politics in Cattaraugus County.  Drago had been appointed to fill out Wordelmann's board term after he was elected Mayor following the death of late, long-time mayor, Tony Caprino two years ago.
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Democrat David DiSalvo... who won the other trustee's seat... was unable to attend last night's board meeting.  He had taken the written oath of office.  But, will go through the "ceremonial" swearing in at the board's next meeting.


No one speaks at Lakewood public hearing on 2013-14 budget; lawmakers learn village to receive more CHIPS funding...

The villlage of Lakewood's 2013-2014 budget has gotten a $23,000 boost from the state.  However... it won't change the tax levy or rate in the new spending plan.  That from Mayor David Wordelmann... who says the increase comes in the form of Consolidated Highway Improvement Program-- or CHIPS funding.  Wordelmann says it's good news... but, will basically be a "pass through" in the $3.24-million budget so it can be used for more project work.  He says the money is used for paving, and other road work.  Wordelmann says they've been receiving $85,000 over the past few years, but, this year will get $109,000.  He says no one from the public spoke at Monday night's hearing... but, adds Trustee John Jablonski pushed for hiring someone to head up planning for the village due to recent issues that have arose.  However... Wordelmann says there was no other support for such a move.  The budget increases taxes by about 1.3-percent... while spending is up by about $124,000.  However... Wordelmann says revenues now up about $103,000.  He adds that the final budget plan is "very tight."  The tax levy -- or the total amount to be raised by taxes -- increases by about $22,000 under the plan... which will likely be voted on April 23.


Celoron board approves new mayor to serve out the late "Jack" Keeney's term...

There's a new mayor in the village of Celoron.  The village board Monday night nominated... and, appointed Scot Schrecengost to replace the late Jack Keeney.  Keeney passed away from cancer last month.  Schrecengost had been interim mayor until Monday night by virture of being Deputy Mayor.  Village Clerk Shirley Sanfilippo says he was sworn-in after being approved as new Mayor.  In addition... resident Steve Grundstrom was appointed by Schrecengost to replace him on the village board.  Grundstrom is a member of the village Planning Board.  Finally... Sanfilippo says Schreckengost named board member Norm Matteson as the new Deputy Mayor.  Both Schrecengost  and Grundstrom will serve until December before both seats are up for election next November.


Gerry man arrested for DWI following single-car accident in Cherry Creek...

A Gerry man wasn't hurt... but, does face a drunk driving charge following a one-car crash in the town of Cherry Creek Monday night.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene on Route 83 shortly before 8:30 p.m.  Deputies say their investigation showed 27 year-old Charles Houser II was northbound when his vehicle went off the eastside of the roadway.  Officers say Houser's car struck a fence... and, came to rest in a ditch.  He was not hurt... but, deputies say further investigation found Houser was drunk.  He's been charged with driving while intoxicated... aggravated DWI... failure to stay in Lane... and, other traffic violations.  Houser was issued appearance tickets for Cherry Creek Town Court.


About 300,000 pounds of frozen food served in schools may be among the 3-million Rich Foods has recalled amid E. coli scare...

Hundreds of thousands of pounds of frozen food recalled amid an E. coli scare may have been served in schools.  That's the word from the Buffalo-based company that manufactured the items.  Rich Products recalled 10 million pounds of frozen food items over the past two weeks after 27 E. coli illnesses in 15 states were linked to their foods.  Of that... Rich Products estimates that about 3-million pounds may still be in the marketplace and approximately 300,000 pounds may have ended up in school lunchrooms.  Rich Products spokesman Dwight Gram says the main items shipped to schools were labeled as pizza dippers and pepperoni pizzatas.  E. coli infection can cause mild diarrhea or more severe complications, including kidney damage.

Local News Headlines

Local news Headlines

 

An early Fall trial date has been set for the Virginia man accused of murdering Clymer School Superintendent Keith Reed, Junior last September.  A Pre-Trial Conference was held Monday morning in the case of 42 year-old Anthony Taglianetti-the-second in Chautauqua County Court.  Taglianetti is charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of Reed last September 21st at the victim's home on the Clymer-Sherman Road.  District Attorney David Foley says the conference was fairly routine... but, adds jury selection is set for mid-September. As for defense motions... Foley says there were none made by Public Defender Nathanial Barone at Monday's court session. Taglianetti is accused of fleeing the state following Reed's shooting death... which reportedly was over an alleged relationship Reed had with Taglianetti's wife.  He was located in Virginia a week after the shooting.  Foley does say a plea deal has been offered to the defendant.  Taglianetti initially fought extradiction to New York state... but, his defense team then missed a filing deadline for an extradication hearing.  He was returned to Chautauqua County shortly after that.

 

Several brush fires in the north county area this past Sunday should serve is a reminder that this is the time of the year when grass and woods-related fires become a problem.  Above average temperatures... and, dry conditions led to those.  Chautauqua County Emergency Services Director Julius Leone says people who burn brush need to be very careful. Leone says there are a couple of reasons why we see an uptick in the number of brush fires during the early Spring. The fires early Sunday closed a portion of Route 39 from Center Road to the Forestville village line for about three hours Sunday.  No injuries were reported.  No word on what sparked the fires.

 

There is more good than bad in the 2013-to-2014 state budget that was approved three days before it was due on April 1st.  That from Jamestown Mayor Sam Teresi... who is weighing in the the 135-billion dollar spending plan for the first time since it's approval.  Teresi says there are three positives to the budget plan.  The first is that it was "on-time" for the third straight year.  Teresi says it helps local governments get better interest rates on borrowing.  He says muncipalities will also benefit from an increase in Consolidated Highway Improvement Program -- or CHIPS funding. Teresi says Jamestown will see at 130-thousand dollar hike in CHIPS funding... which should help offset increases in such areas as petrolium costs.  He's also happy that Governor Cuomo had the political courage to take a proposed 4-year extention of binding arbitration out of the budget... and, wants to have discussions about that later.  However... Teresi says that Aid and Incentives to Municipalities... or AIM Aid... did NOT seen an increase in the final budget... and, he says that makes it tough in an environment where most every other cost is going up.

 

The investigation is continuing into a number of vehicle larcencies in the village of Forestville that occured last week.  Sheriff's officers say the break-ins occured back on April 2nd and 3rd... and, a number of items were stolen.  However... deputies say some items have been recovered... and, the investigation is continuing.  No arrests have been reported as yet.  Officers are asking residents whose vehicle may have been burglarized to contact the Sheriff's Office to make a report.  Residents may contact the dispatch center at 753-2131... or 363-4232 to make a report.

 

The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities will be replacing water mains on Lakeview Avenue TODAY from 535 Lakeview to Van Buren Street.  BPU Spokeswoman Becky Robbins says water will be turned off to customers in that area from 8:30 AM until around Noon.  When water is restored, Robbins says the water will be discolored on Jamestown's north side for about 12-to-18 hours.  Today's work by the BPU's Water Division is part of the overall road reconstruction of Lakeview.  The BPU this year will replace water mains from Price to Falconer Streets on Lakeview. 

 

Hundreds of thousands of pounds of frozen food recalled amid an E. coli scare may have been served in schools.  That's the word from the Buffalo-based company that manufactured the items.  Rich Products recalled 10 million pounds of frozen food items over the past two weeks after 27 E. coli illnesses in 15 states were linked to their foods.  Of that... Rich Products estimates that about 3-million pounds may still be in the marketplace and approximately 300-thousand pounds may have ended up in school lunchrooms.  Rich Products spokesman Dwight Gram says the main items shipped to schools were labeled as pizza dippers and pepperoni pizzatas.  E. coli infection can cause mild diarrhea or more severe complications, including kidney damage.

 

A western New York man will get 1.6-million dollars to settle a dispute that left him hopping mad when flooding from a nearby development left him inundated with frogs.  The award settles a seven-year legal fight involving Paul Marinaccio (Mare-IN-Ah-Cheeo), the town of Clarence and a developer.  Marinaccio says runoff diverted onto his 40-acre property turned it into wetlands filled with frogs.  He says the abundant amphibians forced him inside because a childhood incident left him with a crippling frog phobia.

News Update for Mon., Apr. 8, 2013!

Route 6 closed due to two-vehicle crash...

A serious, two-vehicle accident in Clarendon, Pennsylvania has left a major route in Warren County closed between Warren and Sheffield.  State Police in Warren say the accident was called in shortly before 3 p.m. Monday... and, several fire companies are reportedly at the scene on Route 6.  One person was reportedly trapping inside one of the vehicles.  Route 6 is closed between Warren and Sheffield.  More information when it becomes available.


PA man arrested for allegedly driving more than 100 m.p.h. in Sherman, with significant amount of pot in car...

State police say they've ticketed a 21 year-old Pennsylvania man for driving more than 100 miles per hour on Interstate 86 in the town of Sherman.  Troopers say they pulled over Nathan Koman of Cranesville, Pennsylvania about around 2:15 p.m. Sunday after clocking him driving 108 miles an hour in Sherman.  State Police officials add Troopers also found a bag containing 32 grams of marijuana during the traffic stop.  Koman is charged with speeding, reckless driving and criminal possession of marijuana.  He was ordered to appear in Sherman Town Court at a later date.


County Chamber to host annual State Legislative Breakfast Apr. 19 in Lakewood...

Members of Chautauqua County's business community will get more information on the "good and the bad" of the recently-enacted New York state budget later this month.  The county's Chamber of Commerce will host it's annual State Legislative Breakfast at the Lakewood Rod and Gun Club Friday, April 19th at 8 AM.  Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Todd Tranum says -- first though -- they want to find out about the future of the NRG Power Plant in Dunkirk.  Tranum says they're hoping for some good news on "repowering" that plant from State Senator Cathy Young and Assemblyman Andy Goodell.  Tranum says another concern is the state's Utility Tax... which business leaders were hoping would end this year.  It was to be "phased-out."  Tranum adds there's also some concern about the increase in the state's minimum wage.  However... he says the final agreement on the minimum wage is it will be "phased-in" over the next couple of years.  He adds that... while some businesses taxes will remain in the new budget... some are being reduced.  For more information on the county Chamber's State Legislative Breakfast on April 19... call their Jamestown office at 484-1101... or Dunkirk at 366-6200.  You can also register on-line at www.chautauquachamber.org.


Public hearing set on Lakewood's 2013-14 budget tonight...

A public hearing is set for tonight on the village of Lakewood's proposed 2013-2014 budget.  Mayor David Wordelmann says the hearing begins at 6:40 p.m.  Wordelmann says the tentative spending plan increases taxes by about 1.3-percent... while spending is up by nearly $101,000.  However... Wordelmann says revenues are also up about $80,000.  He adds, though, that the original requests in the spending plan were much higher... and, the final budget plan is "very tight."  Wordelmann says the budget was about $200,000 more than it wound up at.  He says there are basically four areas where spending is going up in the $3.24-million spending plan.  The biggest... he says... is more than $37,000 in increased pension costs to New York state.  Wordelmann says it's the third straight year of significant pension cost increases.  The other big increase is about $32,000 in combined fuel and equipment costs for the Police and Fire Departments.  Wordelmann says the tax levy only increases by about $22,000 under the plan.


DiNapoli speaks Monday on the fiscal pressures many local governments are dealing with...

New York state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli is speaking today about the intense fiscal pressures many local governments are enduring.  DiNapoli is delivering the keynote address at a symposium in Albany on the fiscal problems facing local governments.  The event is hosted by the Nelson A. Rockefeller Institute of Government.  DiNapoli has advocated an early warning monitoring system that would identify municipalities and school districts experiencing budgetary strain.  The comptroller says that would allow corrective actions to be taken before crises develop.


Two Jamestown men arrested for allegeldy dealing "crack" cocaine in city in recent months...

Two city men are jailed without bail for allegedly trafficking "crack" cocaine from an apartment on Jamestown's eastside.  City police  raided the dwelling at 113 Willard St. about 9:30 p.m. last Friday following a lengthy investigation into illegal narcotics sales in the Greater Jamestown area.  Members of the JPD SWAT Team made entry... and, found 41 year-old Christopher Howie inside.  He was arrested.  But... the other suspect -- 34 year-old Anthony Cunningham -- jumped out a window to try and flee police.  Officers gave chase... and, with the help of a K-9 unit... caught Cunningham a short district away.  Both Cunninghman and Howie were arraigned on third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance charges  Cunningham also faces charges including first-degree criminal nuisance... and, obstruction.  Both were then sent to the county lock-up.


Ridgeway, PA man arrested for allegedly child sexual assault in 2008...

A northwestern Pennsylvania man has been arrested for an alleged sexual assault on a 9 year-old Cattaraugus County girl five years ago.  The Buffalo News reports 38 year-old Harold Hunt, Jr. of Ridgeway, Pennsylvania was taken into custody last Thursday in Erie... and, was returned to Cattaraugus County.  State Police in Machias say Hunt was jailed in Erie on a warrant charging him with Felony preditory sexual assault, and child endangerment for the 2008 incident in Delevan.  He was arraigned in Yorkshire Town Court... and, sent to the Little Valley Jail on $150,000 bail.


BPU to replace water mains along Lakeview Avenue Tuesday...

The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities will be replacing water mains on Lakeview Avenue on Tuesday from 535 Lakeview to Van Buren Street.  BPU Spokeswoman Becky Robbins says water will be turned off to customers in that area from 8:30 a.m. until around Noon.  When water is restored, Robbins says the water will be discolored on Jamestown's north side for about 12-to-18 hours.  Tuesday's work by the BPU's Water Division is part of the overall road reconstruction of Lakeview.  The BPU this year will replace water mains from Price to Falconer Streets on Lakeview. 


 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines 4:47am

 

Two city men are jailed without bail for allegedly trafficking "crack" cocaine from an apartment on Jamestown's eastside.  City police  raided the dwelling at 113 Willard Street about 9:30 PM last Friday following a lengthy investigation into illegal narcotics sales in the Greater Jamestown area.  Members of the JPD SWAT Team made entry... and, found 41 year-old Christopher Howie inside.  He was arrested.  But... the other suspect -- 34 year-old Anthony Cunningham -- jumped out a window to try and flee police.  Officers gave chase... and, with the help of a K-9 unit... caught Cunningham a short district away.  Both Cunninghman and Howie were arraigned on third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance charges  Cunningham also faces charges including first-degree criminal nuisance... and, obstruction.  Both were then sent to the county lock-up.

 

A northwestern Pennsylvania man has been arrested for an alleged sexual assault on a 9 year-old Cattaraugus County girl five years ago.  The Buffalo News reports 38 year-old Harold Hunt, Junior of Ridgeway, Pennsylvania was taken into custody last Thursday in Erie... and, was returned to Cattaraugus County.  State Police in Machias say Hunt was jailed in Erie on a warrant charging him with Felony preditory sexual assault, and child endangerment for the 2008 incident in Delevan.  He was arraigned in Yorkshire Town Court... and, sent to the Little Valley Jail on 150-thousand dollars bail.

 

A Sinclairville man is being held on 5-thousand dollars bail for alleged child endangerment following an incident in the town of Charlotte last week.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to the scene on Edson Road just before 6 PM last Wednesday.  Deputies say 33 yer-old James Hall of Edson Road allegedly drove a vehicle with two children inside into a ditch intentionally... and, slapped one victim in the face.  Hall is also accused of destroying household property.  He was arraigned on two counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child... harassment and criminal mischief.  Hall was arraigned in Charlotte Town Court... and, sent to the Chautauqua County Jail.

 

Authorities are on the lookout for a man wanted in connection with Friday night's shooting in the north county city of Dunkirk.  An investigation by Dunkirk Police found that Montel Cooper shot a 23-year-old Dunkirk man at King and Main Streets.  The victim's name has not been released.  Police say Cooper, whose last known address was 522 Park Avenue in Dunkirk, fled prior to officers' arrival at the scene at 10 PM.  They add the victim is believed not to have been the intended target, and was standing across Main Street nearby when the second victim was being shot at.  The Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office and Fredonia Police assisted with crowd control and the investigation.  A warrant has been issued for Cooper's arrest on charges of first-degree reckless endangerment... and, second-degree menacing.  Officers say additional charges are expected.  Cooper is believed to have shoulder-length dreadlocks at this time.  Police add he has ties to Dunkirk and the Jamestown-area.  Anyone with information related to the shooting is asked to call Dunkirk Police at 366-2266... or their confidential tip line at 363-0313.

 

The bid of a Buffalo company to install new, natural gas burners for the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities' Carlson Generating Station has been approved.  BPU General Manager Dave Leathers says the 225-thousand dollar offer by Quackenbush Company was recently approved by the panel.  Leathers says Quackenbush will head up the project to convert Boiler number-10 to use natural gas... and, back up the BPU's Gas Turbine.  Leathers says they're pleased Quackenbush's bid came in lower than was expected.  Leathers say the bids ranged from Quackenbush's 225-thousand-500 to 358-thousand dollars.  He says the low nitrous oxide burners will be installed once modifications to the facililty air permit for the project are approved.  Leathers says the project also includes the modifications to the piping that are needed to supply natural gas to the unit.  Back in late 2012... he says the BPU approved a resolution for the design of the burners, and to "go-ahead" with the project.  Leathers says they are looking at starting the project this Summer.

 

New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman says three more gun show operators have agreed to rules designed to make sure weapons aren't sold to prohibited buyers... bringing the number of agreements to 26.  The procedures involve putting tags on all guns brought to shows by private sellers.  Those tags are checked later to determine whether gun buyers underwent a background check.

 

A northwestern Pennsylvania man has pleaded guilty to wire fraud for selling $379,000 worth of rusty or otherwise junked computers and worthless electronics to online customers.  Thirty-one-year-old Jeffrey Kodba, of Erie, pleaded guilty Thursday to selling the run-down equipment to 16 customers worldwide between April 2006 and June 2011.  Federal prosecutors in Erie say Kodba sold the items through websites JSKcomputerservices.com... and, asset-recovery.com, by claiming he was selling bulk quantities of computer and electronic equipment that had been used by corporate customers.  In reality, Kodba would fill the orders with broken, junked or scrap equipment he bought from other vendors, then would refuse to give refunds or replace the equipment.  Kodba must return for sentencing August 16th before a federal judge in Erie.

 

Governor Tom Corbett is nominating the man who's been Pennsylvania's acting Health secretary since October to take the position on a permanent basis.  The governor said Friday his choice to lead the 17-hundred employee Health Department is Michael Wolf, a former public affairs and policy director with Pfizer.  Wolf has a master's degree from the University of Phoenix and attended college at Slippery Rock University.

 

Original works from 25 artists coming to auction are estimated to bring in more than 8-million dollars to support the construction of a new building for the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City.  Sotheby's says Friday original paintings from artists like Jasper Johns, Cy Twombly and Ellsworth Kelly have been donated by the artists, artists' estates, private collectors and dealers.  A 2012 Jasper Johns work called ``Untitled'' is estimated to bring in as much as $2 million alone.   The auction will be held on May 14th and 15th at Sotheby's.  The museum's new building is projected to open in 2015 and will have three times more gallery space.  The designer is Italian architect Renzo Piano.

News Update for Fri., Apr. 5, 2013

New York among the states experiencing "ammo frenzy..."

Gun enthusiasts fearful of new weapon controls and hearing false rumors of government hoarding are buying bullets practically by the bushel.  The A--P reports that demand is making it hard for gun stores to keep shelves stocked and even putting a pinch on some local law enforcement departments.  The run started in November with President Barack Obama's re-election, followed by the shooting in December of children in Newtown, Connecticut.  That massacre led the president to launch an effort to strengthen federal gun controls and several states to tighten laws.  Connecticut became the latest on Thursday.  Hours before the law went into effect, hundreds of customers streamed out of Hoffman's Gun Center in Newington with guns and boxes of ammunition. Similar scenarios are playing out all over the country.


Gerace says requests for pistol permits not going down, has to bring back staffer to deal with processing back-log...

The number of people applying for gun permits in Chautauqua County since the state legislature approved the New York SAFE Act has not eased up one bit.  That from Sheriff Joe Gerace this week... as gun users continue to buy soon to be illegal assault weapons... and, ammunition.  Gerace says his office has been innundated since the law was passed.  In fact... he says the requests for permits has been "off the charts."  Gerace adds that he's had to bring in another staffer to help deal with the huge volume of applications.  That person is part-time, and an intern has been brought in when they have "light duty."  Gerace is a member of the New York State Association of Sheriffs... which wants to see changes made to the new NY SAFE Act.  He attended a conference the NYSAS earlier this year... and, among the concerns expressed was the provision that reduces the number of rounds in a magazine.  However... that is being revisited by state lawmakers.  Gerace adds the new law also doesn't address a problem for locations like Chautauqua County that border another state.


Some 35 people turn out for first CDBG Public Hearing in Jamestown...

There was a very good turn-out for this week's initial public hearing on the city of Jamestown's Community Development Block Grant... and, HOME Program for 2013.  That from Development Director Vince DeJoy... who says almost 35 people were on hand for Wednesday night's hearing.  DeJoy says a number of residential, and economic development groups were represented.  But... he adds several members of the public were on hand to "energize" the hearing, as well.  DeJoy says some heard about the hearing... from us on the radio.  He says they just wanted to talk about reinvestigating in the city's neighborhoods and making it a "more liveable" place.  DeJoy says among the groups and organizations on hand were Chautauqua Opportunities, Incorporated... and, a group of residents involved with Lillian Dickson Park on the city's eastside.  Those people want to see some improvements there.  Members of Northside PRIDE were also there... along with some city council members, and county legislators.  DeJoy says two issues... compliance with the American's with Disabilities Act... and, infrastructure improves to items such as sidewalks were brought up.  He says his office will sift through all the ideas from the meeting... and, past projects, as well as written items.  They'll then meet with Mayor Sam Teresi and others to develop a plan to role out in a couple of weeks.


Gas prices down two-cents this week...

Prices have finally begun creeping down for a gallon of gasoline in the Jamestown-area this week.  The AAA's Fuel Gauge reports that the average price for a gallon of regular, unleaded is now $3.92.  That's a drop of two-cents from last week.  On the national front... the average price is also down two-cents this week to just under $3.64.  That price is also 12-cents less than one month ago.  An increase in refinery production and lower oil prices in early March have combined to provide rare falling prices for motorists in comparison to recent years.  At the state level... prices have fallen for drivers in the vast majority of the country. Forty-two states have a lower average price today than one week ago... including New York.


BPU to open new Yard Waste Site on Monroe Street...

The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities' Yard Waste Site is being moved to a new location... not far from the current site.  In addition... restrictions on it's use will be enforced through window stickers for BPU customers.  That from General Manager Dave Leathers... who says the new site will open later this month.  Leathers says the dump site is being moved from Fluvanna Avenue to 1001 Monroe St.  He says it'll be at the 'dead-end' of the street... and, the best way to get there will be turning off Eighth onto Clinton Street, then continue onto Monroe.  Leathers says the move will allow the site to be away from a location on Fluvanna that the city's Public Works Department uses.  He says the other change is the use of the window stickers for just BPU Solid Waste Customers.  The sticker will have to appear on the rear driver's side window of their vehicle.  Leathers says there's been some misuse in the past... mainly by contractors who brought old tires, and construction and demolition debris to the old site.  Leathers says the stickers are available free of charge to BPU Solid Waste residential customers.  But... each customer account will get only one sticker.


 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines  4/5/13 4:49am

 

It's begun to feel more like Spring in and around the Jamestown-area.  After three straight days of more Winter-like conditions... the thermometer is nearly reaching 52 in some parts of the region.  The National Weather Service in Buffalo forecast for sun was right on.  Forecaster David Thomas in Buffalo says the colder air that produced the unseasonably cold weather and snow the the recent days is loosening up it's grip.  Winds are out of the south and southwest... helping to bring in that warmer air.  Aside from today... he says the weather will be normal for this time of year. Thomas says temperatures will still be on the cold-side during the evening's and overnights... until Saturday.  Lows will be in the lower 40s then.  Thomas adds our next bout of precipitation will move in late in the coming weekend.  He says a "slow moving frontal system" will be bringing some showers in by early Sunday.  By Monday, though, Thomas says we'll be back in the mid-50s.

 

An Oklahoma man is jailed without bail after the top of a trailer he stole in Texas... and, was hauling... struck the concrete railroad bridge on South Main Street in Jamestown.  City police were called to the scene shortly after 10:30 AM Wednesday... where the trailer... which was 13-feet high... had struck the Western New York and Pennsylvania bridge.  The span is 12 feet above the road.  Officers say the driver... 54 year-old Rudolf Fokumlah (FOE-Coom-lah) of Oklahoma City... was not hurt.  However... further investigation found the trailer had been stolen on March 21st.  Fokumlah was arrested on several charges... including third-degree criminal possession of stolen property... and, aggravated unlicensed operation.  Police say the bridge appeared to be undamaged... but, it was to be inspected.  Fokumlah was arraigned... and, sent to the county lock-up.

 

The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities' Yard Waste Site is being moved to a new location... not far from the current site.  Restrictions on it's use will also be enforced through window stickers for BPU customers.  That from General Manager Dave Leathers... who says the new site will open later this month.  Leathers says the dump site is being moved from Fluvanna Avenue to 10-01 Monroe Street.  He says it'll be at the 'dead-end' of the street.
Leathers says the move will allow the site to be away from a location on Fluvanna that's used by the city's Public Works Department.  He says the other change is on restricting use of the site to only BPU Solid Waste Customers.  He says users of the yard waste site will have to have a window sticker on the rear driver's side window of their vehicle.  Leathers says there's been some misuse in the past. Leathers says the window stickers are available free of charge to BPU Solid Waste residential customers.  But... he adds only ONE sticker will be provide to each customer account.

 

Advocates for campaign finance reform say the latest in a long string of political scandals shows the ongoing need to remove money from Albany politics.  While acknowledging the bribery charges Tuesday against state Sen. Malcolm Smith involve his effort to run for mayor of New York City, which already has public campaign financing, the government watchdog groups say they included a promise of state money.  They say Albany's ``pay-to-play'' culture must go.  Karen Scharff of Citizen Action of New York says many legislators first get elected intending to work for their communities then learn they are in a system where money determines outcomes.  Barbara Bartoletti of the League of Women Voters says New York also needs strict campaign finance enforcement and has no investigators at the state Board of Elections.

 

 A federal bribery case has led to the arrest of one Bronx assemblyman and the resignation of another.  Federal prosecutors say Assemblyman Eric Stevenson has been arrested in a bribery investigation.  Fellow Democratic Assemblyman Nelson Castro cooperated in the probe and says he's giving up his seat in Albany on Monday.

 

Gas prices in the Jamestown-area have finally begun creeping down this week.  The Triple-A's Fuel Gauge reports the average price for a gallon of regular, unleaded is now 3-dollars-92 cents.  That's a drop of two-cents from last week.  On the national front... the average price is also down two-cents this week to just under 3-dollars-64 cents.  That price is also 12-cents less than one month ago.  An increase in refinery production and lower oil prices in early March have combined to provide rare falling prices compared to recent years.

 

 Pennsylvania's governor is suggesting that he's interested in a concept that combines an expansion of Medicaid eligibility for hundreds of thousands of uninsured residents by using federal dollars to buy private insurance plans.  Tom Corbett says he's seeking information about the idea, a day after meeting with U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.  It was first broached by Arkansas' Democratic Governor Mike Beebe as a way to get his GOP-controlled Legislature on board with a Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act.

 

A Cattaraugus County teenager is facing burglary and petty larceny charges after a break-in at a lumber mill in Leon Wednesday.  Cattaraugus County Sheriff's Deputies say 18-year-old Mahlon Gingrich allegedly broke into the Adams Lumber Mill... and, stole five cans of soda pop.  Gingrich was arraigned... and, sent to the Little Valley jail on 2-thousand dollars bail.

 

News Update for Thurs., Apr. 4, 2013

More normal "Spring-like" temperatures and conditions arrive in Jamestown-area...

It's finally beginning to feel like Spring in Chautauqua County.  The National Weather Service in Buffalo says were looking at a sunny day... with a high around 50.  Forecaster David Thomas in Buffalo says the colder air that produced the Winter-like temperatures the previous three days is loosening it's grip.  Thomas adds temperatures for the next few days... aside from Friday... will be more "normal" for this time of year.  He adds the southerly winds are beginning to bring the warmer air in from the south to the entire region.  Temperatures will still be on the cold-side during the evening's and overnights... until Saturday.  Lows will be in the lower 40s.  Thomas says the average temperatures for this time of year are in the upper 40s.  He says our next bout of precipitation will move in late in the coming weekend.  Thomas says a slow-moving front will bring showers into the area by Sunday... and, those will be around through early week.  By Sunday... Thomas says highs will be in the upper 50s... and, it'll be in the mid-50s Monday.  We'll have more sunny conditions by Tuesday.


IRS Spokeswoman says more people filing tax returns electronicially than ever before...

If you haven't gotten your taxes done and filed yet... you have less than two weeks to get that annual chore completed.  More and more people are filing electronically, though.  That from Internal Revenue Service New York Spokeswoman Diane Besunder... who says more than 80-percent of all taxpayers last year filed electronically.  Besunder says it's more "the rule now... not the exception."  She adds there are more reasons why filing your taxes electronically rather than using paper forms is the way to go.  She says it's the fastest way to get them done... and, with the software... you make fewer errors.  Besunder also says that if you file electronically... you're likely to get your refund quicker.  She says those making $57,000 a year or less can also file electronically for free.  You can get more information on the IRS website on-line at www.irs.gov.


Oklahoma man arrested for allegedly stealing trailer he was hauling that struck Jamestown bridge...

An Oklahoma man is jailed for allegedly stealing a big rig trailer in Irving, Texas... and, driving it into New York before it crashed into the railroad bridge on South Main Street in Jamestown.  City police were called to the scene shortly after 10:30 a.m. Wednesday... where the trailer... which was 13-feet high... had struck the Western New York and Pennsylvania bridge.  The span is 12 feet off the roadway.  Officers say the driver of the truck... 54 year-old Rudolf Fokumlah of Oklahoma City... was not hurt.  However... further investigation found the trailer had been stolen on March 21.  Fokumlah was arrested on several charges... including third-degree criminal possession of stolen property...and aggravated unlicensed operation.  Police say the bridge appeared to be undamaged... but, will be inspected to check for any structural damage.


Gas prices down in Jamestown-area for the first time in several weeks...

Prices have finally begun creeping down for a gallon of gasoline in the Jamestown-area this week.  The AAA's Fuel Gauge reports that the average price for a gallon of regular, unleaded is now $3.92.  That's a drop of two-cents from last week.  On the national front... the average price is also down two-cents this week to just under $3.64.  That price is also 12-cents less than one month ago.  An increase in refinery production and lower oil prices in early March have combined to provide rare falling prices for motorists in comparison to recent years.  At the state level... prices have fallen for drivers in the vast majority of the country. Forty-two states have a lower average price today than one week ago... including New York.


Families USA says 1.5-million New Yorkers will be eligible for tax credits to help offset health care costs...

An advocacy group says 1.5-million uninsured New Yorkers will be eligible for federal tax credits next year to help offset the cost of health coverage.  A report by Families USA notes that the credits for those with incomes ranging from 138-percent to 400-percent of the federal poverty guidelines will go directly to the health plan in which the individual or family enrolls, offsetting their total premiums.  A family of four with income up to $94,200 would be eligible.  In concert with President Barack Obama's federal health care overhaul, New York is establishing a health insurance marketplace called an exchange.  New York has an estimated 2.7-million uninsured among some 19 million residents.


Corbett apparently interested in combining Medicaid expansion in PA with federal dollars to buy private health insurance plans...

Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett is suggesting that he's interested in a concept that combines an expansion of Medicaid eligibility for hundreds of thousands of uninsured residents by using federal dollars to buy private insurance plans.  Corbett says he's seeking information about the idea, a day after meeting with U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.  It was first broached by Arkansas' Democratic Governor Mike Beebe as a way to get his Republican-controlled Legislature on board with a Medicaid expansion under the 2010 Affordable Care Act.  A number of other governors are studying it.  But... a Congressional Budget Office report suggests that it is more expensive than traditional Medicaid coverage.  Corbett, a Republican, says he isn't supporting the Medicaid expansion without substantial changes because he's worried about the long-term cost.


 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines

 

Job growth in February helped push Chautauqua County's jobless rate back under 10-percent.  That from state Labor Department Analyst John Slenker who says the number of unemployed residents fell by 300 in February to help lower the rate from 10.1 to 9.6-percent.  While the seasonally unadjusted rate remains high... Slenker says there's reason for optimism heading into the Spring.  The main one is many job sectors saw gains... while the rest remained even.  Slenker adds the number of unemployed people fell by 300. Slenker says the biggest gain was in the 'service providing' sector... where they were 700 more people employed.  Other gains seen were 100 in natural resources, mining and construction... and, another 100 in Financial sector.  Slenker says the fact there were no losses in ANY sector was good.  He adds another reason for optimism is the fact Construction was even over February of 2012... when conditions were better for building.  Slenker says the countys's jobless rate was 9.3-percent in January of 2012.
In Cattaraugus County... the unemployment rate was also down from 10.4-percent to 10-percent.  Slenker says the job situation there is stable... but, the numbers remain high.  The biggest gains were in manufacturing... which was up 100 over the month.  Cattaraugus County's jobless rate in February of 2012 was also 10-percent.

 

Officials have released preliminary data showing the unemployment rate in ALL of upstate New York was 9.2-percent in February.  That's unchanged from a year earlier... while the New York City metro area rate dropped to 8.6 percent from 9.1.  The state labor department statistics released Tuesday show the rate in upstate metro areas virtually unchanged at 8.8 percent... and, at 10.4 percent in rural areas.  The rate in New York City was 9.2 percent, compared to 9.8 percent last year.  Tompkins County had the lowest rate at 5.8 percent while Lewis County had the highest, 13 percent.  The statewide unemployment rate was 8.4 percent.

 

An advocacy group says 1.5 million uninsured New Yorkers will be eligible for federal tax credits next year to help offset the cost of health coverage.  A report by Families USA notes that the credits for those with incomes ranging from 138-percent to 400-percent of the federal poverty guidelines will go directly to the health plan in which the individual or family enrolls, offsetting their total premiums.  A family of four with income up to 94-thousand-200 dollars would be eligible.  In concert with President Barack Obama's federal health care overhaul, New York is establishing a health insurance marketplace called an exchange.  New York has an estimated 2.7 million uninsured among some 19 million residents.

 

The Jamestown Republican Committee is looking for potential candidates for next November's city council... and, county legislature races.  There has been only ONE contested City Council race in the past two elections... and, GOP Committee Chairman Brent Sheldon is hoping to have more candidates this time around.  Sheldon says they're looking for people who believe in the Republican ideals of smaller government... lower taxes... and, less regulation.  Sheldon says it's tough to fill a slate lately... but, adds they've already had a couple of interested people contact them. Sheldon says they don't need as many candidates as before for the county legislature from the city because the panel is being downsized from 25 to 19 members.  He admits it's been frustrating getting people to run... and, he's not exactly sure why.  He says it may be a combination of cost... time... and, apathy.  Sheldon says he's pleased to see they already have a couple of people before going public with a call for candidates.  If you're interested in running... Sheldon says call him at 483-0004... or e-mail him at Brent_ (underscore) Sheldon@hotmail-dot-COM.

 

About 200 employees of the New York state Thruway Authority are expected to lose their jobs as part of layoffs announced by the Cuomo administration earlier this year.  The Times-Union of Albany reports the toll takers, maintenance employees and clerical workers are being laid-off today.  Thruway officials announced in January that 234 workers across the state would be laid off this year to save the authority about 20-million dollars.  Some of the targeted workers have retired since the announcement.

 

Chautauqua County's representative in the U-S House is encouraged by the findings of a study on the proposed re-powering of the NRG plant in Dunkirk.  Congressman Tom Reed says the studies of the conversion from coal to natural gas for both the Dunkirk power plant... and, the Cayuga Power Plant in Lansing are good news for ratepayers and taxpayers alike. The 500-million dollar project would create 300 construction jobs alone in the Dunkirk-area.  Reed says the re-powering projects would help businesses by stabilizing the tax base in both communities. But... the Corning Republican says he is disappointed that New York is not part of the nation's surge in natural gas production.  Reed says he hopes a decision by Governor Cuomo on "fracking" is made "sooner rather than later."


 

News Update for Wed., Apr. 3, 2013

Chautauqua County's unemployment rates falls under 10-percent...

The county's jobless rate is back under 10-percent for the month of February.  That from state Labor Department Analyst John Slenker who says the number of unemployed residents fell by 300 in February to help drop the rate from 10.1 to 9.6-percent.  While the seasonally unadjusted rate remains high... Slenker says there's reason for optimism heading into the Spring.  He says many job sectors saw gains... while the rest remained even.  He says manufacturing was stable... but, the service providing sector was up 700.  Slenker adds that government-related jobs increased by 500... while the financial sector was up 100.  He says the fact there were no losses in any sector was good.  He adds another reason for optimism is the fact Construction was even for the year.  Slenker says that's despite the fact this February was not as good from a weather perspective than Feb. 2012.  He says there were 800 more jobs -- total -- in February over January.  That number grew from 52,100 to 52,900.  Slenker says the countys's jobless rate was 9.3-percent in January of 2012.
----
In Cattaraugus County... the unemployment rate was also down from 10.4-percent to 10-percent.  Slenker says the job situation there is stable... but, the numbers remain high.  He says there are gains in manufacturing, and government... while construction is stable.  Slenker adds that the manufacturing gains were 100 in February.  He says Cattaraugus County's jobless rate in February of 2012 was also 10-percent.


State's unemployment rate at 8.4-percent in February...

Officials have released preliminary data showing the unemployment rate in upstate New York was 9.2-percent in February.  That's unchanged from a year earlier... while the New York City metro area rate dropped to 8.6 percent from 9.1.  The state labor department statistics released Tuesday show the rate in upstate metro areas virtually unchanged at 8.8 percent... and, at 10.4 percent in rural areas.  The rate in New York City was 9.2 percent, compared to 9.8 percent last year.  Tompkins County had the lowest rate at 5.8 percent while Lewis County had the highest, 13 percent.  The statewide unemployment rate was 8.4 percent.


Gillibrand announces new "comprehensive plan" for upcoming Dairy Bill debate...

U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has announced a "comprehensive plan" she says will strengthen New York's Dairy industry... in particular smaller farms.  The downstate Democrat says her 4-point plan is mainly in response to the loss of 65,000 dairy cows -- statewide -- over the past 10-years.  Gillibrand says they will be her forcus when debate on a new farm bill begins after the Easter-Passover break.  During a state-wide media conference call Tuesday... she said the measures include re-introduction of the Dairy Income Fairness Act... which would give farms with 200 cows... or less... a guaranteed $6.50 margin between the cost of milk minus the cost of feed to help those smaller farms.  However... she would like that 200 cow limit increased to give those farms "more flexibility."  Gillibrand adds she also has concerns about "supply management" because the state currently can't meet the needs of the state's growing yogurt and Greek Yogurt industry.  Too often... she says they too often have to import dairy products from other states to make up for what they can't get here.  Her plan also includes one new initiative.  She is introducing the bi-partisan Dairy Pricing Reform Act with GOP Senator Susan Collins of Maine.  Gillibrand says it will force the U.S. Department of Agriculture to begin hearings on restructuring the milk pricing system... and, directing the Secretary of Agriculture to release the USDA's recommendations to Congress.  As for dairy herd losses... Gillibrand says Chautauqua County lost 2,400 head of cows lost between 2002 and 2012... while Cattaraugus County lost 2,800.


State Senator accused of trying to bribe his way into NYC Mayor's race...

A New York state lawmaker says he'll be vindicated of charges that he plotted to bribe his way into the race for mayor of New York City.  Democratic state Senator Malcolm Smith said in a statement Monday that his record reflects 13 years of dedication, hard work and integrity.  A city councilman and four other political figures also are charged in the corruption probe.  The charges in the case include bribery, extortion, and wire and mail fraud.


Teachers aide at SWCS charged with child endangerment...

A Jamestown woman has been arrested for endangering the welfare of a child after allegedly spraying a cleaning solution in the face of a 5 year-old at Southwestern Elementary School.  Ellicott Town Police say they investigated the Mar. 20 incident in which 50 year-old Terry Kemp... a teacher's aide... was cleaning tables in the school cafeteria.  Officers say Kemp allegedly sprayed the solution at the child... and, it got into his eyes.  The boy was not identified... but, he was taken to the nurse's office, and appeared to have suffered no injuries.  Police say Kemp understands she made a serious mistake.  She was issued an appearance ticket for Ellicott Town Court.

 

 

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines 4:51AM

 

The investigation is continuing into the cause of yesterday morning's fire that destroyed a barn and damaged a nearby house in the town of Westfield.  Westfield fire crews were called to the scene at 77-21 Martin Wright Road about 4:45 AM Tuesday... and, Battalion Chief Rick Cole says they called for mutual aid from four other departments.  Cole says the blaze had a big head start... adding the barn was pretty much destroyed when he go there. Cole says the homeowner may have suffered some minor facial burns... but, the two occupants of the house were able to escape to safety because of smoke detectors.  The fire also damaged some nearby trees.  Cole says the house was probably about 25 feet away from the house... and, both building were about 125 yards off the road.  Westfield had help from Brocton, Portland, Ripley and Mayville firefighters.  They were at the scene until late Tuesday morning.

 

New York's junior U-S Senator has proposed what she calls a "comprehensive plan" to strengthen the state's Dairy Farms... especially smaller farms.  Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand says the proposal is mainly in response to the loss of 65-thousand dairy cows state-wide from 2002 to 2012.  Gillibrand says debate on a new farm bill will begin once the Senate returns to session.  During a state-wide conference call with the media Tuesday afternoon... she said the measures include a new, bi-partisan bill. Gillibrand says she introduced the other three measures last year when the Senate approved a five-year Farm Bill that was not taken up in the House.  One of the key items was the Dairy Income Fairness Act... which helps those smaller farms. Gillibrand says the U-S Department of Agriculture would have that time to establish a new... and, more sustainable program for dairy farms.  She also said she would like to see the 200 cow limit increased to give farms more flexibility to grow.  She says she is concerned about "supply management" because New York currently can't meet all the needs of the state's burgeoning yogurt industry. As for dairy herd losses... Gillibrand says Chautauqua County lost 24-hundred head of cows lost between 2002 and 2012.  Cattaraugus County lost 28-hundred during that time.  The biggest loss was in Otsego County... which saw a loss of 66-hundred.  The biggest gain was 5-thousand in Ontario.

 

A New York state lawmaker says he'll be vindicated of charges that he plotted to bribe his way into the race for mayor of New York City.  Democratic state Senator Malcolm Smith said in a statement Monday that his record reflects 13 years of dedication, hard work and integrity.  A city councilman and four other political figures also are charged in the corruption probe.  The charges in the case include bribery, extortion, and wire and mail fraud.

 

The first public hearing on what should be included in Jamestown's 2013 Community Development Block Grant and HOME Program will be held tonight at city hall.  New Development Director Vince DeJoy is urging residents to bring their ideas to the session... which begins at 6:30 PM in City Council Chambers.  DeJoy says the first session is to get input on potential low-to-moderate income projects his department can undertake... or should continue.  He says there are several of those... especially regarding housing. DeJoy says they've also made infrastructure improvements to the Allen Street-area.  He adds they've also used funds to help with making public places compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.  DeJoy says those projects have to meet certain requirements... including 80-percent of them being in low to moderate income areas.  He says the city hasn't received word on the exact amount of funding they'll get for 2013... but, he knows it's going to be 5-percent less than last year.

 

A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly shoving a 12 year-old girl who tried to intervene in a domestic dispute late Monday night.  City police were called to the scene at 193 Barrett Avenue about 11:30 PM... and, spoke with the victim who made the initial complaint.  The victim said 51 year-old Joseph Troutman was disorderly and drunk... and, allegedly pushed the girl during the incident.  Officers arrested Troutman for criminal mischief... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

 

Thousands of dead fish are washing up on the Lake Erie shoreline in the Buffalo area... but, state Department of Environmental Conservation officials say it's nothing to be alarmed about.  Residents living along a stretch of shoreline in the Angola area of the town of Evans tell YNN cable TV news that the fish jump out of the water and die by the thousands along the beaches lining the southern Erie County shoreline.  Dead fish are also being found farther north to where the lake empties into the Niagara River at Buffalo.  DEC officials say the gizzard shad typically die in large numbers each winter and don't surface until the lake temperature begins warming up in the early spring.  Another large gizzard shad die off occurred on Lake Erie during the winter of 2011.

News Update for Tues., Apr. 2, 2013

Early morning fire destroys barn, damages house in town of Westfield...

Chautauqua County fire investigators are looking for the cause of a fire that destroyed a barn and damaged a nearby house in the town of Westfield Tuesday morning.  Firefighters from Westfield and four other departments battled the blaze at 7721 Martin Wright Road.  Battalion Chief Rick Cole says crews got the call around 4:45 a.m. this morning.  Cole says the house was about 25 feet from the barn, and by the time they got set up operations, the house and barn were both burning.  He says the barn was pretty much gone at that point.  Cole adds the area was hard to reach from the road.  Cole says he arrived about 20-minutes after the initial call... and, the barn was already "on the ground" when he arrived.  He says the homeowner may have suffered some minor facial burns... but, the two occupants of the house were able to escape to safety because of smoke detectors.  The fire also damaged some nearby trees.  Westfield had help from Brocton, Portland, Ripley and Mayville fire crews. 


State Police in PA update information on robbery involved in hold-up at Kwik Fill in Sugar Grove...

More information has been released about the man who allegedly robbed the Sugar Grove Kwik Fill station late last week.  The Warren Times-Observer reports the robbery occurred between 1:45 a.m. and 2 a.m.  State Police in Warren say the suspect's skin was completely covered, and there was little information from a surveillance camera. The man is between 5'8"... and 5'10" tall with a medium to light build.  He was wearing a light tan hoodie, darker pants, gloves, black muck/barn boots, and a blue bandana with a hole cut out over his right eye.  He spoke in broken english, possibly Hispanic, and may be a migrant worker.  Anyone with information should contact the state police in Warren, or Warren County Crimestoppers at 1-800-832-7463.


Search continues for missing North Warren, PA man...

The search is continuing today in Warren County, Pennsylvania for a North Warren man... whose been missing since March 22.  The Warren Times-Observer reports that 14 agencies... led by Conewango Township Police... are involved in the search... which has included the Allegheny and Conewango Fire Departments.  The missing man... 69 year-old Dan Wolboldt... is a Scoutmaster with Troop 13 in North Warren, and a pastor.  Police say he went missing a week ago last Friday... but, left behind his vehicle, watch, wallet, cellphone, pager, and medication.  An intensive search utilizing 75 trained rescuers were involved in the search last Saturday.  If anyone has information on Wolboldt's whereabouts... they should call Conewango Township Police.  We have a call into police for a further update.  Glade Township and North Warren fire crews are also helping to head up the search.


Jamestown's Dept. of Development to hold initial hearing on CDGB and HOME Program funding...

Jamestown's new director of Development is urging residents to "bring your ideas" to an inital public hearing on the city's 2013 Community Development Block Grant and HOME Programs Wedneday night.  Vince DeJoy says the session begins at 6:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers.  DeJoy says the purpose of this first session is to get input on potential neighborhood projects... and, projects in targeted areas.  He says those projects have to meet certain requirements... including 80-percent of them being in low to moderate income areas.  DeJoy says it's not "too difficult to find some realy worthy projects" in Jamestown... to improve neighborhoods.  In the past... he says projects have included owner-occupied dwelling emergency repairs... along with infrastruture projects that have been done in the Allen and Bowen Street-areas.  He adds they've also used funds to help with making public places compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.  As for funding... DeJoy says they haven't received the exact amount yet... but, he knows it's going to be 5-percent less than last year due to federal "sequestration" cuts that took effect Mar. 1.  He hopes the amount remains in the $1-million range.  gain... the initial public hearing on Jamestown's CDBG and HOME Program funding is at 6:30 Wednesday night in City Council Chambers.


Jamestown man jailed for child endangerment during domestic dispute...

A city man has been jailed for allegedly shoving a 12 year-old girl who tried to intervene in a domestic dispute.  Jamestown police were called to the scene at 193 Barrett Ave. about 11:30 p.m. Monday... and, spoke with the victim who made the initial complaint.  The victim said 51 year-old Joseph Troutman was disorderly and drunk... and, allegedly pushed the girl during the incident.  Officers arrested Troutman for criminal mischief... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

 

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines

 

Firefighters are battling a blaze in Westfield this morning.  Chautauqua County Sheriff's say the call came in just after 4:30am for two structure fires at 7721 Martin Wright Road.  Firefighters from Westfield, Mayville, Ripley, Portland, Fredonia and Brocton are at the scene of a House and Barn Fire.  There were people in the home when the fire started, they all made it out safely.   We'll have more details when they become avaialable.

 

Colder air has moved in from Canada to make it feel more like February than early April.  Lake Effect Snow is expected to coat the hilltops through this morning.  Forecaster John Hitchcock with the National Weather Service in Buffalo says the higher elevations inland from Lake Erie were to get up to 2 or 3 inches through this morning... and, maybe another inch by late morning.  Hitchcock adds, though, that April snow is NOT very rare in Chautauqua County... in fact we usually get a couple of shots each year. Hitchcock says the areas right along the Lake Erie shoreline will get an inch or less during that time.  He adds that while last March was unusually warm... there were some accumulating snows that occurred late last April.  The good news is the snow won't last long since we'll see temperatures rebound into the 40s on Thursday and Friday.

 

Our extended period of snow and cold temperatures have led one local ski resort to extend it's season through mid-April.  The Holiday Valley Ski Resort in Ellicottville will be open until April 14th.  Marketing Director Jane Eshbaugh says they've actually had great conditions since early this past February.  Eshbaugh says the snowfall... and, cold night-time temperatures made the decision a fairly easy one.  She calls conditions there "mid-Winter" like.  Eshbaugh says ALL slopes are open... and, their snow base is between 17 and 56 inches. Eshbaugh says the best part about the snow pack on the trails is the surface is basicall "packed powder..." as opposed to the more icy or spotty conditions you see late in the season.  She says it's not completely making up for last year's lack of snow and cold weather... but, it's helping.  Eshbaugh says they're "doing well."  Holiday Valley will be open to skiers all this week until 4:30 PM daily.  Eshbaugh says they received about 50 inches of new, natural snow in March.

 

Governor Andrew Cuomo has postponed his trip to western New York to sign the state budget that was approved last week by the Legislature.  Cuomo's office says Monday morning that weather conditions have forced the postponement of the trip.  The governor was scheduled to hold ceremonial signings of the spending plan at 12 PM Monday at the University of Buffalo's South Campus... and, at 2:15 PM at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center.  There's no immediate word on when the trip will be rescheduled.  Lawmakers completed passage of the $135-billion budget late Thursday night, three days before the March 31 deadline.  That gave the state its third-consecutive on-time budget.  Cuomo and legislative leaders call the spending plan a family-friendly, business-friendly and middle-class-friendly budget.

 

There are both good and bad parts to the state's 2013-2014 budget.  That from the region's other Assemblyman, Joe Giglio.  The Gowanda Republican says the best part of the spending plan for Cattaraugus County is the fact it includes two-years worth of payments to the city of Salamanca due to the state's ongoing dispute with the Seneca Nation of Indians.  He says the worst is that it severly cuts funding to programs for the developmentally-disabled provided by The Resource Center in Chautauqua County... and, the ReHab Center in Cattaraugus County. Chautauqua County Assemblyman Andy Goodell recently said only about 30-million of the 120-million dollar cut to those agencies is being restored.  As for the city of Salamanca... Giglio says the city will get 2.5-million dollars this year... and, 2.5-Million more in the 2014-2015 budget to make up for lost revenues from the Seneca Allegheny Casino.  The Seneca's are holding up funding for both the state and city due to an ongoing dispute with the state.

 

State police are beefing up patrols this week and enforcing both speed and so-called ``move over'' laws.  The ``Move Over Law'' requires drivers to slow down when approaching stopped emergency or police vehicles on the shoulder or roadway with emergency lights activated.  On multi-lane highways, drivers must move one lane over if they can do it safely.

 

Advocacy groups have started pushing in cooperation with Governor Andrew Cuomo to change New York's campaign finance laws.  Calling themselves the Fair Elections for New York campaign, they've launched a two-week, 815-thousand dollar media campaign statewide with 30-second television ads saying political races ``are dominated by big money.''  Groups funding the initial campaign include the Working Families Party, Citizen Action of New York, Friends of Democracy, the Public Campaign Action Fund and investor and activist Sean Eldridge.  A campaign spokesman said Monday they're working with Cuomo's staff and he joined a recent conference call to supporters.  Cuomo has proposed reducing maximum contributions, requiring prompt public disclosure of contributions and voluntary public financing of campaigns.  His own campaign fund shows nearly 22.5-million dollars on hand from traditional fundraising.

 

A country preacher in western Pennsylvania baptized his great-grandson on Easter Sunday.  The Derrick of Oil City reports that 82-year-old Reverend Walter ``Bud'' Anthony performed the rite for his 7-month-old great-grandson.  Anthony says it may be his last baptism.  He's retired, but family members asked him to do the service.  Anthony doesn't keep count of how many baptisms he did in 60 years of preaching, but the total includes all of his six children and almost all of his 30 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.  Anthony says Sunday's service included some of his favorite Bible verses about the importance of children.

 

News Update for Mon., April 1, 2013

Colder, snowy weather to prevail over Jamestown-area through mid-week...

Colder air moving in from Canada will make it feel more like February than early April.  Lake Effect Snow is expected to coat the hilltops tonight... and, tomorrow.  That from Forecaster John Hitchcock with the National Weather Service in Buffalo.  Hitchcock says some of the higher elevations, inland, interior areas may see 1 to 2 inches during the overnight, and another inch tomorrow morning.  There will be lesser amounts inland.  Hitchcock says April snow is not very rare in Chautauqua County... in fact we usually get a couple of shots each years.  He says that's not surprising for the first half of April.  Hitchcock says in fact that while last March was unusually warm...there were some accumulating snows that occurred late last April.  The good news is the snow won't last long since we'll see temperatures rebound into the 40s on Thursday and Friday.


Flames that destroyed downtown Frewsburg business apparently triggered by malfunctioning space heater...

An apparent short in a space heater triggered Sunday's smokey fire that destroyed the Hollenbeck's Antiques store in downtown Frewsburg.  Frewsburg Fire Chief John Lindsey says the owner... Ellis Hollenbeck... was at another business across the street about 15 minutes before he spotted smoke coming from the building.  Lindsey says fire crews were called to the scene at 30 West Main St. about 10 a.m.  He says Hollenbeck saw smoking coming out from the windows and doors.  Lindsey says the smoke was even more prevailent when firefighters arrived.  Lindsey says they immediately called in manpower from five fire companies to help put out the blaze.  He says the biggest problem was the fact there were three roofs over the office area... and, flames were able to get in between each layer.  He says it took about an hour to an hour-and-a-half to bring the blaze under control... and, they had to protect exposure sides to two businesses, an insurance company on on side, and a computer place on the other.  Both got some smoke inside.  Lindsey says they had about 100 firefighters on hand to put out the blaze... and, overhaul the scene.  He says they were assisted there by Kiantone... Falconer... Kennedy... Busti... and, Lakewood.  Most crews cleared the scene by about 1:30 p.m.  No one was hurt.


Cuomo postpones two Monday signing ceremonies for new state budget in Buffalo and Rochester...

Gov. Andrew Cuomo has postponed his trip to western New York to sign the state budget that was approved last week by the Legislature.  Cuomo's office says Monday morning that weather conditions have forced the postponement of the trip.  The governor was scheduled to hold ceremonial signings of the spending plan at Noon Monday at the University of Buffalo's South Campus... and, at 2:15 p.m. Monday at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center.  There's no immediate word on when the trip will be rescheduled.  Lawmakers completed passage of the $135 billion budget late Thursday night, three days before the March 31 deadline.  That gave the state its third-consecutive on-time budget.  Cuomo and legislative leaders call the spending plan a family-friendly, business-friendly and middle-class-friendly budget.


Giglio sees good, bad from new state budget...

There's both good and bad in the 2013-2014 state budget.  That from the region's other Assemblyman, Joe Giglio.  The Gowanda Republican says the best part of the spending plan for Cattaraugus County is the fact it includes two-years worth of payments to the city of Salamanca due to the state's ongoing dispute with the Seneca Nation of Indians.  Salamanca has been hurt by loss of revenues from the Seneca Allegheny Casino.  He says the city will get $5-million dollars... $2.5-Million each of the next two years... because it's received no share of casino revenue dollar promised in a compact with the Senecas.  Giglio says the bad part of the budget is a major cut to developmentally-disabled programs for such agencies as The Resource Center in Chautauqua County... and, the ReHab Center in Cattaraugus County.  He says he doesn't believe that "the most vulnerable among us" should bear the burden of mistakes made by bureaucracies.  Only about $30-million of the $120-million cut to those agencies is being restored.


Gerace says Sheriff's Department ready to go forward with getting new Emergency Communications Center up and running...

Chautauqua County lawmakers have cleared the way for a new, emergency radio system in the county by accepting a $6-million dollar state grant for the project.  Legislators voted unanimously to accept the funding that Sheriff Joe Gerace says comes from a surcharge that cell phone users pay.  Gerace says the 30-cent surcharge, he argues, the state has not shared with municipalities up until this point.  He says they're "thrilled about that."  Gerace says work on the system will begin once the County's Purchasing Department approves a contract.  He says they... with advice from the Law Department will determine who the successful bidder is.  Once that's complete, Gerace says they'll award the contract, and talk about rolling out the system.  He says it will take more than a year to build the new system.   Gerace says the grant should cover most of the costs involved... and, allow the county to avoid having to borrow funding for the project.


Monday is opening day of trout and salmon fishing season...

It's opening day for trout and salmon fishing in New York.  The Department of Environmental Conservation plans to stock more than 2 million catchable-size trout in 307 lakes and ponds and 3,000 miles of streams statewide this spring.  About 2,000 of them are being released in Albany's Six Mile Waterworks Monday morning during a free fishing event.  Environmental Commissioner Joe Martens will be there to talk about other upcoming free fishing days. The environmental agency also plans to stock about 2 million yearling lake trout, steelhead, salmon and splake this spring to provide angling opportunities over the next several years.  Stocking begins in late March and early April in the lower Hudson Valley, Long Island and western New York, and moves to the Catskills and Adirondacks as weather permits.

 

Local News Headlines

Local News Headlines 4/1/13  5:21am

 

A building housing an antique business in downtown Frewsburg has been heavily damaged by fire.  Chautauqua County Fire Dispatchers say Frewsburg firefighters were called to the scene at Holenbeck's Antiques at the corner of West Main and Center Streets just after 10 AM Sunday.  Sources say there was heavy fire... and, five mutual companies were called to provide water and manpower.  Dispatchers say they were Kiantone... Falconer... Kennedy... Busti... and, Lakewood.  However... they were reportedly unable to save the building.  Dispatchers say fire crews were at the scene about 1:30 PM.  No injuries were reported.  We were unable to reach Fire Chief John Lindsey for comment or details. The Post Jounal reports that  fire investigator Rich Telford believes the blaze may have been caused by a space heater that either malfunctioned or was to close to combustible materials. The fire has been ruled accidental.

 

A Bemus Point man escaped injury... but, faces a drunk driving charge... after he lost control of his car, and it crashed early last weekend in the town of Ellery.  Sheriff's Deputies say 21 year-old Charles Glenn was westbound on Salisbury Road just after 3:30 AM Saturday when he lost control of the vehicle on a curve.  Officers say Glenn was going too fast... and, his car went out of control... and, crossed over the on-coming lane.  His vehicle then rolled onto it's side... and, and came to rest against a street sign post.  Glenn was checked by EMTs at the scene... but, refused treatment because he said he wasn't hurt.  However... deputies say Glenn failed sobriety tests and refused a pre-screen breath test at the scene.  He was arrested for driving while intoxicated... as well as refusing a pre-screen breath test... failure to reduce speed on a curve, and failure to keep right.  He was arrigned in Ellery Town Court... and, issued appearance tickets.

 

Governor Andrew Cuomo is praising the state legislature for working with him to pass the third straight on-time budget.  Cuomo says in a video address that the Assembly's final legislative approval of the budget just before midnight Thursday night is the result of a working partnership with the Assembly and Senate.  Lawmakers easily avoided the annual April 1st deadline to pass a budget.  The streak of on-time budgets began after former Governor David Paterson uncovered a new power for governors to impose their budget if the April 1st deadline is missed.  State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli says the passage shows ``an improved, more efficient process between the governor and the Legislature.''

 

A local man has been arrested for allegedly being found in possession of a switchblade knife during a routine traffic stop in Jamestown last Saturday night.  City police say a patrol had stopped a vehicle for a brake light being out about 9 PM in front of 337 East Fifth Street.  Officers say... upon further investigation... they spotted a knife in the possession of one of the passengers.  Police say they found 22 year-old David E.A. Brown with an illegal, springloaded switchblade.  Brown was arrested... and, charged with criminal possession of a weapon... and, jailed pending arraignment.

 

Health officials say at least 24 people have become sick from an outbreak of E. coli infections linked to frozen snack foods marketed to children.  No one has died, but eight people, mostly kids or teens, were hospitalized.  An investigation detected E. coli in an open package of Farm Rich brand frozen chicken quesadillas at an ill person's home.  On Friday... the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported illnesses in Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Mississippi, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin.  The Buffalo, N.Y.-based Rich Products Corp. has recalled quesadillas, mozzarella bites and other frozen products made in November.

 

Local Congressman Tom Reed would rather have a budget in place... but, says the latest continuing resolution to keep the government operating until September is a "good start."  During a visit to Jamestown late this past week... Reed said he's pleased with three key aspects of the 984-billion dollar appropriation.  The Corning Republican says the first is there was actually agreement by House Republicans... and, Senate Democrats on reducing the size of the appropriation to 984-billion dollars.  That may still be a lot of money... but, Reed says it is... and, it keeps the government operating. In fact... Reed says continuing resolutions have been at least over one-trillion dollars... all the way back to the pre-George W. Bush administration.  He says the fact all sides saw the need to get spending below that level is a "positive step in the direction of getting this debt crisis under control."  He says a third positive is the measure makes more of the "Sequestration cuts" from March 1st "discretionary."

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