Man and woman arrested for illegal weapons possession following gunshot incident in Silver Creek...         
A man from Silver Creek... and, a woman from Hamburg have been arrested following a gunshot complaint in the village of Silver Creek yesterday afternoon.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to a locaton on Bennett State Rd. just after 3 p.m., and, found 34 year-old Tyler Crouse... and, 34 year-old Lucille Macri allegedly in possession of two loaded firearms.  Deputies add that one of the weapons was found to be stolen from a location in Pennsylvania.  Officers add that Crouse fled the scene... but, was taken into custody after a brief foot chase.  He was taken to Brooks Hospital in Dunkirk for treatment of minor injuries... then transported to the county jail on two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... second-degree criminal contempt...  fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property... and, resisting arrest.  Macri was also charged with two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.  Both were jailed pending centralized arraignment.

City man arrested for allegedly stealing lawn mower and gas can...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested after allegedly being caught on surveillance video stealing a lawn mower and gas can from a garage on the city's southside.  Jamestown police were called to the scene about 11:30 p.m. Wednesday... on a report of the theft.  Officers say they obtained the video... and, saw 29 year-old Michael Morley the-second leaving with the mower and gas can shortly after 3 p.m. that day.  Police followed up at another address and found Morley inside... and, he was arrested for third-degree burglary... and, petty larceny.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Near-capacity crowd on hand for start of 80th Gerry Rodeo...
A near-capacity crowd was on hand for the opening night of the 80th annual Gerry Rodeo to watch what will be a record number of professional cowboys and cowgirls compete through Saturday night.  Spokesman Paul Cooley reports that more than 200 contestants from more than 30 states are entered into this week's competition...  and, he adds the rodeo stock is being provided again this year by Painted Pony out of Lake Luzerne, New York.  He says the Catskills-based operation has been the stock contractor for 12 years.  He says they've been "wonderful to work with."  Events last night included the "very physically demanding" bareback bronc riding... steer wrestling... and the cowgirl's barrell racing.  The Rodeo... along with their traditional beef barbecue dinners served beginning each day at 5 p.m., is a fund-raiser for the Gerry Fire Department.  For the first time this year... the Rodeo has moved to "day-specific" ticketing to avoid getting more people than they can seat over the weekend.  You can still order them at www.gerryrodeo.org.  

Hochul says some 750,000 children in NYS could lose health insurance coverage under new federal policy...
As many as three-quarters of a million children in New York state could lose health care coverage under new federal policy guidance.  That from Governor Kathy Hochul... who has released new, county-level data... showing that thousands of children in every county -- including Chautauqua -- could lose coverage when the new policy from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) takes effect in 2027.  Hochul says a letter from CMS outlined the federal government’s decision to phase out programs that provide continuous Medicaid coverage for vulnerable populations, including New York’s program.  The CMS letter does not immediately revoke funding or end the program, but it indicates that federal officials will not support extensions or approve similar initiatives moving forward for the program that provides health insurance.  In Chautauqua County... 4,540 children are covered by the programs involved... with 568 in Child Health Plus... and, 3,972 under Medicaid.

NYS Dems looking at proposal for redistricting in wake of Texas state plan...
The redistricting -- or redrawing of legislative district maps -- has become a new hot-button issue across the nation... especially in Texas... where Republican majorities are looking to add more GOP-friendly seats.  New York state... Democrats are also looking to gain back Congressional seats after losing several in last year's election.  However... options here are limited and convoluted.  The A-P reports it would take years before new districts could emerge, underscoring the difficult spot Democrats are in ahead of next year’s midterm elections.  To amend New York's state Constitution, it would have to pass the state Legislature twice in two years and then be approved in a voter referendum, meaning that the soonest New York could have new lines would be in 2028.  State Senator Michael Gianaris is sponsoring the proposal... and, says "we can’t just sit there and watch.  This is not a battle that’s going to be over in a year."

Ellicott man arrested for stealing car, and crashing it in Cleveland...
A man from the town of Ellicott man has been arrested for allegedly stealing a car in late April... and, crashing it hours later in Cleveland, Oh.  Town Police say they were initially called to the scene back on April 28 for an unauthorized use of a motor vehicle complaint.  Officers say they found that 26 year-old Dustin Pickett had reached through a doorway of the victim's apartment... and, took the keys off the wall.  Pickett then allegedly took the car... and, returned sometime later to Chautauqua County.  He's now been arrested for second-degree unauthoritzed use of a motor vehicle... second-degree burglary... petty larceny... and, fourth-degree Grand Larceny.  

Jamestown woman arrested following domestic incident in which she threatened person with a hammer...
A city woman is accused of threatening another person with a hammer during a domestic dispute on Jamestown's westside late Sunday afternoon.  City police say they were called to the scene shortly after 5 p.m., and, found the suspect -- 53 year-old Sheri Hawkins -- was wanted on an active warrant.  Their investigation found that Hawkins had held a hammer and threatened the victim with it.  She was arrested on one count each of second-degree menacing... and, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon... along with the bench warrant.  Hawkins was jailed pending arraignment.

Woman from Kiantone arrested in Jamestown for spitting on worker as business ws closing...
A Kiantone woman has been arrested in Jamestown for allegedly spitting in the face of an employee at a business on the city's southside... causing an ensuing fight between the two.  Jamestown police were called to the location just after 11 p.m. Sunday for the reported fight.  Officers found that 32 year-old Racheal Waldron tried to place an order as the business was closing... and, was refused service.  However... Waldron became upset... and, spit into the employee's face.  Police were able to locate Waldron behind the wheel of her vehicle in the businesses parking lot.  She failed multiple field sobriety tests at the scene... and, officers spotted two juveniles inside the vehicle with her.  Waldron was arrested for second-degree harassment... two counts of endangering the welfare of a child... DWI... and, two counts of Aggravated DWI -- a Leandra's Law violation.  She was jailed pending arraignment.

City Council, Jamestown Public Schools, honor late Jim McElrath during Monday meetings...
The city of Jamestown Monday night paid tribute to a late Jamestown High School principal... school board member... and City Council member.  James "Mac" McElrath passed away at his home last Friday at the age of 89.  City Clerk Jennifer John read a message from Mayor Kim Ecklund... who recalled McElrath's legacy among the students that he got to know so well through the years.  In fact...she says he made a point of remembering students, and when they graduated from JHS --- even many years ago.  McElrath became principal at JHS in 1976... the same year Council President Tony Dolce came to the high school.  He later hired Dolce as a teacher at JHS for the 1989-1990 school year.  Dolce would later come to know McElrath as a fellow City Councilmember.  One who wanted to work with both sides of the political aisle to get things done.  He says McElrath always wanted to be fair in his policy dealings... something he instilled in himself, and Mayor Ecklund.  James McElrath, Sr. began his teaching career in 1957 at Panama Central School... and, later moved onto Jamestown.  The family will receive friends at the Lind Funeral Home this Thursday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.  A private family service will be held on Friday.

School Board holds moment of silence for McElrath on his passing...
The Jamestown Public Schools also paid honor to the late Jim McElrath with a moment of silence before Monday night's school board meeting.  After beginning his career in the Panama School District... Mr. McElrath worked for the city school district for 26 years... including as JHS Principal the last 18 years prior to his retirement in 1994.  Current School Superintendent Dr. Kevin Whitaker says -- "anyone who chooses to spend their career in education aspires to leave the type of legacy that Mr. McElrath left on the Jamestown community.  His service as an educator, administrator, and school board member reflected a lifelong commitment to students, families, and the betterment of our schools.  The naming of the JHS ‘new gym’ in his honor in 1994 is a testament to the impact that he made."

Langworthy hails HALT Fentanyl Act during appearance in Jamestown Monday...
Federal approval of the HALT Fentanyl Act is being hailed as a "critical step" in stopping the flow of the dangerous and illegal drug in the United States.  Local Congressman Nick Langworthy was in Jamestown Monday morning to tout the legislation... which makes Fentanyl-related substances a Schedule-One controlled substance.  Langworthy says thats important in stopping the flow of substances used to make Fentanyl from places like China... and that includes related substances that were altered and can be changed back later into Fentanyl.  He says the bill states that offenses involving Fentanyl-related substances are triggered by the same quantity thresholds and are subject to the same penalties as offenses involving fentanyl analogues.  For example... offenses involving 100 grams or more of the drug trigger a 10-year mandatory minimum prison term.  He adds the bill also provides help with education, treatment and prevention.  However... Langworthy says the federal law can only do so much.  The Buffalo-area Republican says they need New York state to get on board with tougher measures to deal with Fentanyl trafficking... including elimination of cashless bail for traffickers. 

Quattrone comments on HALT Fentanyl Act...
Congressman Nick Langworthy was joined for the press conference by local police officials... and, Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund... who were all part of a special summit on the issue he hosted two years ago in Mayville.  Langworthy says that... and, others he held across the 23rd Congressional District... allowed him to give input on the bill.  Chautauqua County Sheriff Jim Quattrone says the HALT Fentanyl Act is another tool they can use in the fight... in addition to providing more treatment and education efforts. 
 

Arson suspected in porch fire at Falconer Rod and Gun Club last Saturday morning...
An Ellicott Town Police officer's quick actions are being hailed for preventing serious fire damage to the Falconer Rod and Gun Club early last Saturday morning.  In addition... the Falconer Fire Department is now indicating on Facebook that the fire at the location on Rod and Gun Club Road was intentionally set.  County Fire dispatchers say Falconer fire crews were called to the scene about 3:40 a.m. after the officer... who was doing a routine property check... spotted flames on the porch.  He then grabbed a fire extinguisher to help stop the flames from spreading.  Firefighters soon after arrived and got the rest of the fire out... and, begin and investigation.  The county's Fire Investigation Team is also looking into the incident.  No injuries were reported.

City woman arrested for allegedly trying to assault another person with hammer...
A Jamestown woman is accused of threatening another person with a hammer during a domestic dispute on the city's westside late Sunday afternoon.  Jamestown police say they were called to the scene shortly after 5 p.m., and, found the suspect -- 53 year-old Sheri Hawkins -- was wanted on an active warrant.  Their investigation determined that Hawkins had held a hammer and threatened the victim with it.  She was arrested on one count each of second-degree menacing... and, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon... along with the bench warrant.  Hawkins was jailed pending arraignment.

Ohio man arrested for allegedly hitting another person with plastic baseball bat...
An Ohio man has been arrested for allegedly hitting another person with a plastic baseball bat in the town of Ellery.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene just after 8 p.m. last Thursday on a report of an altercation.  Deputies investigated... and, arrested 78 year-old Jim Weaver... and, charged him with second-degree harassment.  Weaver was issued an appearance ticket for Ellery Town Court at a later date.

Bouys stolen from Lawson Boat Museum in 2016 returned...
A citizen's tip has led to the recovery of some antique metal mooring buoys stolen from an outdoor display at the Lawson Boat Museum in Bemus Point nine years ago.  Sheriff's deputies say mooring buoys are floating devices anchored to the seabed, allowing boats to tie up and remain stationary without using an anchor.  Historically they were large metal spheres with a metal loop end for tying to an anchor, but are now typically plastic or Styrofoam.  Long thought to have been cut up and sold for scrap metal, they were found in good condition and being used as lawn ornaments.  Past Lawson Center President David Wesp recently traveled with Sheriff's Office Navigation Division members to Erie County, New York... where they located and recovered the long missing buoys.  Wesp was ecstatic about their return... and, says the buoys have been returned to their former display and will soon be refinished.  No charges will be filed because the person in possession did not know they were stolen.

New Chocolate ingredient manufacturing plant completed at Wells in Dunkirk...
As work continues on the expansion of Wells Enterprises' facility in Dunkirk... the company is celebrating a milestone in that $425-million project.  Wells announced late last week that it has completed its new chocolate ingredient manufacturing unit, which is part of its Phase 1 expansion.  Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowiasz says it's very exciting news that Wells is moving forward with the project that was first announced in August 2023... adding that they are looking forward to it's completion.  City Planning and Development Director Vince DeJoy says he is pleased that Wells has been investing in the city... noting that the chocolate plant was added on to Wells' original expansion plans... and he says ice cream flavors will be upgraded as part of the next phase.  Wells Plant Manager David Fiore added, "This isn't just about adding capacity. It's about creating a future-ready facility that can fuel innovation, support the community, and bring joy to millions of ice cream lovers nationwide."  Two new production lines will be operational by October.  The entire expansion project is slated to finish in 2028.

Power outage on Jamestown's westside, and Celoron, taken care of in less than two hours...
The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities is still looking into the cause of a power outage in Celoron and in Jamestown Sunday morning.  Spokesperson Becky Robbins says it occured in the area of Livingston and Fairmount Avenues.  Crews had power restored in about two hours.

BPU announces road closure for District Heat project in city...
The Jamestown Board of Public Utilities is announcing a road closure today through next Sun., Aug. 3, for a significant District Heat main replacement project.  The BPU reports the work will be conducted in Brooklyn Square, located on South Main Street between Harrison and West Second Streets.  Motorists should follow the signs to find alternate routes.  The street is targeted to reopen to traffic next Mon., Aug, 4.

City man arrested after allegedly "mooning" another person...
A 40 year-old man has been arrested for allegedly exposing his buttocks to another person -- in broad daylight -- at a business on Jamestown's northside.  City police were called to the unidentified location on a report of a disorderly man.  A short time after arrival... the victim told officers that Richard Neal had exposed himself.  Neal was arrested for public lewdness... and, arraigned in city court.  He was issued an appearance ticket for a later date.

Jamestown man arrested for eastside shooting incident that injured one early Thursday...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly shooting another man multiple times during an incident on Jamestown's eastside early Thursday morning.  City police were called to the area of East Second Street -- near Cheney -- just before 1 a.m. for a reported gunshot complaint.  Police found the male victim had been shot several times... and, provided immediate aid to the man's injuries.  The victim was taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital... and, later flown to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pennsylvania for further treatment.  The man suffered severe injuries... but, is expected to survive.  JPD detectives continued their investigation... and, arrested 23 year-old Xavier Ramos late Thursday afternoon.  Ramos is charged with first-degree assault... and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

City man and Ohio woman arrested following drug bust in Mayville...         
A man from Jamestown and a woman from Cleveland, Ohio have been arrested following a drug bust in the village of Mayville last Tuesday.  Sheriff's officers say their narcotics investigators... and, members of the Jamestown and Dunkirk Police Departments... executed a search warrant at Room 206 at 115 West Lake Rd. just after 2 p.m.  Deputies say they found 49 year-old Glen Barrett... and, 35 year-old Chelsie Paulk inside.  Officers also seized 3 grams of methamphetamine, 12.3 grams of fentanyl, 28.6 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, 62 dosage units of suboxone, 58 grams of alprazolam, .6 grams of cocaine, a .22 cal. handgun, a .38 cal. handgun, scales and packaging material... as well as 582-dollars in cash.  Barrett was charged with third- and fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... and second and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Officers charged Paulk with third-and-fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance ... second-degree criminally using Drug Paraphernalia... criminal possession of a firearm... and, second-degree criminal Possession of a Weapon.  Both were taken to the County Jail pending arraignment.

New Jersey man arrested for alleged fraud in trying to get large loan...     
A man from New Jersey has been arrested for allegedly trying to get a large loan from a credit union in Jamestown using phoney identification.  City police say they were called to the Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union at 1283 East Second St. shortly before 11 a.m., and, were told by staff that they suspected 45 year-old Mark Zadroga was using suspected fraudulent identifications.  Police interviewed Zadroga... and, say he also gave them a fake name at first.  Officers found that the man had provided information about another man living in New Jersey.  Zadroga was arrested on five counts of second-degree forgery... first-degree Identity theft... second-degree attempted grand larceny... and, second-degree criminal impersonation.  He is to be arraigned today in city court... and, the investigation remains ongoing.

Three arrested in Jamestown following domestic incident...
Three people have been arrested -- one for a domestic incident... the other two for animal cruelty -- after police responded to a home on Jamestown's southside -- late yesterday afternoon.  City police were called to the location just after 5:30 p.m. and, their investigation found that 44 year-old Ray Wolfe, Jr. had struck and choked the victim.  Wolfe was arrested for criminal obstruction of breathing or bloodflow.  While at the residence... officers say they spotted a young malnourished dog, and they arrested the dog's owners -- 27 year-old Caroline Penhollow... and, 42 year-old William Leamer.  Both Penhollow and Leamer were charged with overdriving, torturing, and injuring an animal... and, failure to provide sustenance.  All three were jailed pending arraignment.

New Brooks Hospital site plan approved...
The Fredonia Village Planning Board has unanimously approved the new site plan for the new Brooks-TLC and Kaleida Health hospital.  The board also approved a State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) for the site at 412 East Main St.  Marc Romanowski, a partner representing Kaleida, says the plan has been significantly revised since it was first presented in 2019... with the hospital being a one-story structure with 133,000 square feet in size.  Romanowski adds it will take about 32 months to construct... allowing for construction shut-downs or delays for Winter weather, and availabilty of materials.  The Vice President of Campus Planning for Kaleida... Rob Bragg... explained why it will take that long.... with part of the reasoning being the limited amount of work that can be done during the Winter months.  Construction is expected to begin this fall.  Three people brought forth questions and concerns about the plan during a public hearing prior to the board's approval.

Hochul sign's Desha's Law at Bills training camp...
Governor Kathy Hochul today signed Desha’s Law... which requires every public school in New York to have a cardiac emergency response plan in place.  The Governor was joined by the bill’s sponsor... State Senator April Baskin of Buffalo... and is named after Baskin's late cousin, who tragically passed away at school. The bill signing took place at the Buffalo Bills Training Camp where the Governor was joined by Desha’s family, and leaders from the NFL and Buffalo Bills.  Bills Safety Damar Hamlin, the Bills, and NFL have been powerful advocates for heart health and implementing critical training and resources in schools and youth sports following Hamlin’s cardiac arrest in January 2023 in which he had to be resuscitated on the field during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals.  

City police arrest man allegedly involved in early morning shooting incident Thursday...
A Jamestown man faces assault and gurn possession charges after he allegedly shot another man several times on the city's eastside early Thursday morning.  Jamestown police say officers were called to the area of East Second Street -- near Cheney -- just before 1 a.m. for a reported gunshot complaint.  Police found the male victim had been shot several times... and, provided immediate first aid to the man's injuries.  The victim was taken to UPMC Chautauqua... and, later flown to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pennsylvania for further treatment.  The man suffered severe injuries... but, is expected to survive.  JPD Detectives continued their investigation... and, arrested 23 year-old Xavier Ramos late Thursday afternoon.  He's charged with first-degree assault... and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, was jailed pending arraignment.

Man from Gerry arrested following "large cocaine seizure" at Hanson Road location...
A Gerry man faces multiple Felony drug and weapons possession charges following a raid on his home that led to a "large cocaine seizure" late Wednesday afternoon.  Sheriff's officers say they arrested 32 year-old Chaze Johnson at 1842 Hanson Rd. shortly after 4 p.m. after their narcotics investigators... along with Jamestown and Dunkirk Police... executed a search warrant at the residence.  Detectives say they seized 1.3-Kilograms of cocaine... 7.6-pounds of cannabis... nearly 11-grams of MDMA... scales and packaging material for drug trafficking.  They also seized three loaded semi-automatic pistols, two high-capacity pistol magazines, a .22-caliber rifle, and just over $11,000 cash.  Police charged Johnson with first-and fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance...  criminally using drug paraphernalia... three counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment.  Law enforcement continues to ask the public to call and report suspicious or narcotics-related activity in their area.  For the Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigators Tip line call 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420,  For the JPD Tip line call 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477.

Angola woman arrested on drug related charges following arrest in Mayville-area...
A woman from the Buffalo-area has been arrested on several drug-related charges following a traffic stop in the town of Chautauqua Tuesday morning.  Sheriff's officers say a narcotics investigator spotted 26 year-old Savannah Dorsey-Carter of Angola... who was known to have a suspended license... driving a car on Route 394 just after 9 a.m.  The car was then seen in the Dollar General parking lot... and Dorsey-Carter was taken into custody when leaving the store.  A search of the vehicle and Dorsey-Carter's person led the seizure of just over 47-grams of methamphetamine, 8.5 grams of fentanyl and drug paraphernalia used for traficking narcotics.  Dorsey-Carter was charged with two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and one of fourth-degree criminal possession... along with second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  She was also ticketed for third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation... having no insurance... uninspected vehicle... unregistered vehicle and Improper Plates.  Dorsey-Carter was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment program.  If you see or hear of suspicious or narcotics related activity in your area... call the Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigators Tip line at either 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420.

Gillibrand proposes Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act to boost child care for law enforcement officers...
A lack of good, available child care has been an issue for law enforcement families... and, New York's Junior U.S. Senator is proposing legislation to deal with the problem.  Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand says the Providing Child Care for Police Officers Act would provide $24-million a year in federal funding over the next five years.  Gillibrand says providing child care options for officers could help local departments in many ways... including recruitment, and retaining officers.  Gillibrand says the bill... which would establish a pilot program to provide child care services for officers... is cosponsored by North Carolina Republican Thom Tillis.  Most importantly... she says the measure would allow officers more flexibility in balancing work and their personal lives.  In the House of Representatives, Gillibrand says California Congressman Scott Peters is proposing companion legislation there.  Police often work extended hours on a nontraditional schedule.  In a recent survey, more than 70% of law enforcement agencies reported that recruitment is more difficult now than five years ago, and at one major metropolitan police department, more than half of officers reported having to leave or miss work due to child care issues. 

County legislature approves 2026 goals and objectives for Planning and Development Dept. after some debate...
The Chautauqua County Legislature has approved 2026 goals, objectives and performance measures for the county's Department of Planning and Development.  However... while the document fullfills the "letter of the law..." it doesn't meet the "spirit of the law."  That from Jamestown Democrat Fred Larson... who says the Planning and Economic Development Committee simply used what the department printed instead of working up it's own... and, setting it's own measures of success.  Larson offered an amendment to set a goal of increasing the number of jobs in the county... which he says has fallen from about 65,000 to just over 50,000 the past 15 years.  That was defeated.  Republican Fred Johnson voted against the measure in committee... but, did vote for it Wednesday night.  The measure was adopted by the legislature with two members absent, 13-to-4, in a party-line vote.

City man arrested for violating order of protection, and assaulting victim...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested after allegedly violating an order of protection... and, assaulting the woman involved during a domestic incident on the city's westside.  Jamestown police were called to the unidentified location shortly after 2 a.m. Wednesday morning... and located 38 year-old Michael Hillman at the scene.  Officers say their investigation showed that Hillman had assaulted the victim... and, violated the court-order of protection.  In addition... they found he was wanted on an active warrant for violating the same order of protection.  Hillman was arrested for first-degree criminal contempt... aggravated criminal contempt... third-degree assault... and, on the warrant.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

No one hurt when hot-air balloon gets tangled in wires in Lakewood...
An unusual sight in the village of Lakewood early last evening... as a well-known hot air balloon got tangled in some power lines -- not far from Chautauqua Lake.  Lakewood-Busti Police and village firefighters were called to an address on Webster Street about 7:40 p.m.  National Grid also responded to assist with getting the "Jesus by the Sea" balloon off the wires.  Chautauqua County Fire dispatchers say no injuries were reported.  Crews were at the scene just over half-an-hour.  The balloon is owned by local enthusiast, Geoff Turner.

Borrello and GOP colleagues write to Hochul to return Medicaid Transportation program oversight to counties...
State Senator George Borrello and several of his Republican colleagues are urging Governor Kathy Hochul to return oversight of the Medicaid Transporation program to local counties.  The Sunset Bay Republican says the move would help end fraud in the program... which has seen "explosive cost increases and widespread fraud" since New York took over the program in 2011.  Borrello says Hochul needs to dismantle the state’s centralized Medicaid transportation broker model and return operational control and funding to county governments.  He says "Medicaid transportation used to be a local responsibility, run cost-effectively by counties that understood their communities.  Now it’s a billion-dollar boondoggle run by unaccountable brokers who answer to no one, while fraud is exploding and taxpayers are getting ripped off."  Borrello adds "this isn’t about politics -- it’s about protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring services are there for those who truly need them."  He says the lack of accountability in the program has been cited in the past by Comptroller Tom DiNapoli... and, has been a recent focus of the New York Attorney General’s office.

"Cents for St. Susan’s" campaign sets new record, bringing in over $36,000...
The yearly campaign to raise needed funds for Jamestown-area's largest soup kitchen has again broken a record.  Sponsors and other supporters of the 26th annual "Cents for St. Susan's" fund drive learned Tuesday morning that the effort had raised $36,330... exceeding last year's record amount by $928.  St. Susan's Executive Director Cherie Rowland thanked the community... and the drive's sponsors.  Even about three-years after the Pandemic... Rowland says "food insecurity" remains a problem... due largely to inflation and higher production costs.  Some of the sponsors included: Robinson Law Office... Boyles Motor Sales... Dan and Connie Evans... Kwik Fill... The Legend Group... Robbins and Johnson Attorneys... and, the Shults Auto Group.  The Board of Public Utilities' Becky Robbins heads up the campaign... which saw just over $1,900 raised by the more than 50 canisters placed around the area.  Rowland says St. Susan's has strived to be good stewards of the money... noting they are able to get a number of food items from local stores before it has to be discarded.  Rowland says they've been serving just over 200 meals each day this Summer to either the homeless... or people experiencing food insecurity.  The Media One Radio Group was again a media sponsor for the "Cents for St. Susan's" campaign.

United Way "Day of Caring" coming up in mid-August...
A one-day volunteering event benefiting nonprofits and school districts throughout Chautauqua County is scheduled for next month. The United Way of Chautauqua County invites individuals, community groups, and business teams to get involved with its inaugural "Day of Caring" on Fri., Aug. 15.  The event is being put on in partnership with Live CHQ.  United Way Executive Director Amy Rohler says volunteer registration is now available at several locations throughout the county... for either morning or afternoon.  Rohler says many locations to register are in the north county with some in the south end, and in Mayville.  Projects during the Day of Caring will last for three hours, with morning projects running from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon... and afternoon projects from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.  Rohler says each project is designed to help the organizations advance their missions.  Registration will run through Aug. 10.  For more information, visit the United Way's website, text "CaringCHQ" to 41444, or contact Eric Rinaldo at 483-1561.

City man arrested for violating order of protection, and assaulting victim...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested after allegedly violating an order of protection... and, assaulting the woman involved during a domestic incident on the city's westside.  Jamestown police were called to the unidentified location shortly after 2 a.m. Wednesday morning... and located 38 year-old Michael Hillman at the scene.  Officers say their investigation showed that Hillman had assaulted the victim... and, violated the court-order of protection.  In addition... they found he was wanted on an active warrant for violating the same order of protection.  Hillman was arrested for first-degree criminal contempt... aggravated criminal contempt... third-degree assault... and, on the warrant.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

No one hurt when hot-air balloon gets tangled in wires in Lakewood...
An unusual sight in the village of Lakewood early last evening... as a well-known hot air balloon got tangled in some power lines -- not far from Chautauqua Lake.  Lakewood-Busti Police and village firefighters were called to an address on Webster Street about 7:40 p.m.  National Grid also responded to assist with getting the "Jesus by the Sea" balloon off the wires.  Chautauqua County Fire dispatchers say no injuries were reported.  Crews were at the scene just over half-an-hour.  The balloon is owned by local enthusiast, Geoff Turner.

Borrello and GOP colleagues write to Hochul to return Medicaid Transportation program oversight to counties...
State Senator George Borrello and several of his Republican colleagues are urging Governor Kathy Hochul to return oversight of the Medicaid Transporation program to local counties.  The Sunset Bay Republican says the move would help end fraud in the program... which has seen "explosive cost increases and widespread fraud" since New York took over the program in 2011.  Borrello says Hochul needs to dismantle the state’s centralized Medicaid transportation broker model and return operational control and funding to county governments.  He says "Medicaid transportation used to be a local responsibility, run cost-effectively by counties that understood their communities.  Now it’s a billion-dollar boondoggle run by unaccountable brokers who answer to no one, while fraud is exploding and taxpayers are getting ripped off."  Borrello adds "this isn’t about politics -- it’s about protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring services are there for those who truly need them."  He says the lack of accountability in the program has been cited in the past by Comptroller Tom DiNapoli... and, has been a recent focus of the New York Attorney General’s office.

"Cents for St. Susan’s" campaign sets new record, bringing in over $36,000...
The yearly campaign to raise needed funds for Jamestown-area's largest soup kitchen has again broken a record.  Sponsors and other supporters of the 26th annual "Cents for St. Susan's" fund drive learned Tuesday morning that the effort had raised $36,330... exceeding last year's record amount by $928.  St. Susan's Executive Director Cherie Rowland thanked the community... and the drive's sponsors.  Even about three-years after the Pandemic... Rowland says "food insecurity" remains a problem... due largely to inflation and higher production costs.  Some of the sponsors included: Robinson Law Office... Boyles Motor Sales... Dan and Connie Evans... Kwik Fill... The Legend Group... Robbins and Johnson Attorneys... and, the Shults Auto Group.  The Board of Public Utilities' Becky Robbins heads up the campaign... which saw just over $1,900 raised by the more than 50 canisters placed around the area.  Rowland says St. Susan's has strived to be good stewards of the money... noting they are able to get a number of food items from local stores before it has to be discarded.  Rowland says they've been serving just over 200 meals each day this Summer to either the homeless... or people experiencing food insecurity.  The Media One Radio Group was again a media sponsor for the "Cents for St. Susan's" campaign.

United Way "Day of Caring" coming up in mid-August...
A one-day volunteering event benefiting nonprofits and school districts throughout Chautauqua County is scheduled for next month. The United Way of Chautauqua County invites individuals, community groups, and business teams to get involved with its inaugural "Day of Caring" on Fri., Aug. 15.  The event is being put on in partnership with Live CHQ.  United Way Executive Director Amy Rohler says volunteer registration is now available at several locations throughout the county... for either morning or afternoon.  Rohler says many locations to register are in the north county with some in the south end, and in Mayville.  Projects during the Day of Caring will last for three hours, with morning projects running from 9 a.m. to 12 Noon... and afternoon projects from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.  Rohler says each project is designed to help the organizations advance their missions.  Registration will run through Aug. 10.  For more information, visit the United Way's website, text "CaringCHQ" to 41444, or contact Eric Rinaldo at 483-1561.

City man arrested for theft at CVS store...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly shoplifting merchandise... and, damaging property inside the CVS Store in Brooklyn Square.  City police say they were called to the scene at 19 South Main St. for a reported larceny.  Officers say they determined that 48 year-old Lawrence Gibbons had stolen items from the store and caused damage before leaving.  He was later found nearby... and arrested for petty larceny... and, fourth-degree criminal mischief.  Due to State Bail Reform... Gibbons was released with an appearance ticket for city court at a later date.

City man arrested on warrants, drug possession following northside incident...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested on drug-related charges following a complaint of an unwanted person at a northside home early last Sunday morning.  City police were called to the location shortly before 6:30 a.m., and, found 33 year-old Dylan Abbey... who was known to be wanted on multiple arrest warrants.  As officers approached Abbey... he allegedly ran off.  However... he was caught after a brief foot chase.  Police say they found him in possession of 42.8 grams of methamphetmine... and, 1.6 grams of fentanyl.  In addition to his arrest warrants... officers charged Abbey with third, fourth and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, resisting arrest.  He was held pending arraignment.

"Cents for St. Susan's" campaign sets new record amount raised in 2025...
The 26th annual "Cents for St. Susan's" fund drive for the Jamestown-area's large soup kitchen set another record this year... with more than $36,000 raised.  Sponsors of the drive learned this morning that the effort brought in $36,330... exceeding last year's amount by $928.  St. Susan's Executive Director Cherie Rowland thanked the community... and the drive's sponsors.  Rowland says it shows "how amazing this community, and our business partners are."  Some of the sponsors included Judy and Steve McAllaster... Northwest Bank... Asplundh... Connie and Dan Evans... Century 21/Turner Brokers and National Fuel.  The Board of Public Utilities' Becky Robbins heads up the campaign... which saw just over $1,900 raised by the more than 50 canisters placed around the area.  Rowland says St. Susan's has strived to be good stewards of the money... noting they are able to get a number of food items from local stores before it has to be discarded.  She says they've been able to make decisions quickly that gets the food used, and not wasted.  Rowland says they've been serving just over 200 meals each day this Summer to either the homeless... or people experiencing food insecurity.  The Media One Radio Group was a media sponsor again this year for the "Cents for St. Susan's" campaign.

Rowland says record amount raised by "Cents" campaign will hopefully offset projected SNAP cuts to FeedMore WNY...
The record amount of money raised by this year's "Cents for St. Susan's" campaign is important... due to projected cuts in federal funding for food bank programs nationwide.  That from Director Cherie Rowland... who says Feedmore Western New York supports St Susan's.  However... Rowland says Feedmore is looking at a 15% reduction, which will have an impact.  The federal budget reconciliation bill would reduce Supplimental Nutrition Assistance program benefits and federal funding for food purchases.  FeedMore WNY estimates it will lose more than $3.5 million in food purchases this year alone. 

County Fair does "very well" for six-day run with minor issues due to weather...
The latest edition of the Chautauqua County Fair is in the books, and this year's installment in Dunkirk went "very well."  That's the word from Chautauqua County Fair Association President Linda Lanphere, who says a few days of rain kept attendance down, but she feels the fair did okay as a whole.  Lanphere says there was a lot of participation on the agricultural side... with more animals being entered for the 4-H Meat Animal Sale, and others.  Lanphere adds the new Conservation and Education Center was well received, noting that it was full every time she went by there.  On the entertainment side... she says the 96th Highlanders, who performed twice at the Maytum Theater, got rave reviews... and, marched through the grounds each time.  Lanphere says fairgoers were also very happy with the variety of rides and games that were available.  Meanwhile... she says there's one aspect of the fair she would like to see some improvement... and, that's publicity -- mainly in the south county. 

State lawmaker lends voice to allowing NYS Trooper to grow beard in accordance with his religious beliefs...
A New York state lawmaker is calling on Governor Kathy Hochul to help a State Trooper based in Jamestown to be allowed to grow a beard in accordance with his religious beliefs.  The Buffalo News reports that State Assemblyman David Weprin of Queens has written to Hochul on behalf of Trooper Charanjot Tiwana... who is a 2018 graduate of the State Police Academy... and a practicing Sikh.  Tiwana initially wanted to be able to grow a beard for this 2022 wedding... which was allowed -- but only up to half-an-inch -- 28 days prior to the wedding.  He then was ordered to shave before returning to work in the field.  Weprin says this is a "targeted and exclusive" violation of religous freedom and the law... in particular a 2019 law approved overwhelmingly by the state legislature, and signed by Governor Hochul.    

City man arrested for shoplifting and criminal mischief at CVS...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly shoplifting merchandise... and, damaging property inside the CVS Store in Brooklyn Square.  City police say they were called to the scene at 19 South Main St. for a reported larceny.  Officers say they determined that 48 year-old Lawrence Gibbons had stolen items from the store and caused damage before leaving.  He was later found nearby... and arrested for petty larceny... and, fourth-degree criminal mischief.  Due to State Bail Reform... Gibbons was released with an appearance ticket for city court at a later date.

City man and woman arrested on drug charges following Sunday traffic stop...
A man and woman from Jamestown have been arrested on drug possession charges following a traffic stop on the city's eastside early Sunday morning.  Jamestown police say a patrol stopped the car for an observed infraction in the area of East Eighth and Liberty Streets shortly before 4:30 a.m.  Officers say their investigation determined that 31 year-old Russell Sims and 29 year-old Sharriah Funkhouser were in possession of 13.7 grams of fentanyl... 6.7 grams of cocaine... ecstasy... a scale commonly used in illegal drug sales, and individual packaging materials.  Police arrested both on four counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance -- with intent to sell... and, two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  They add that Funkhouser was also issued a traffic citation.  Both were jailed pending arraignment.

City of Jamestown closes down Panzarella Park Dock due to structural issues... 
The dock at Jamestown's Panzarella Park has been closed to the public -- effective immediately -- due to structural issues.  A work crew doing the initial phase of replacing decking boards... discovered significant structural issues beneath the surface.  As a result... the city has removed the entire wooden structure while alternative repair and replacement options are developed.  Mayor Kim Ecklund's Office today urged visitors to use caution in the area and comply with all posted signage and temporary access restrictions.  The city says it "appreciate's the community’s patience and understanding as we work to ensure a safe and lasting solution."  If you have questions... contact the city's Parks Department at 483-7523.

Laurel Run from Jamestown to Dunkirk, and Silver Creek races another success...
It was a great weather weekend for runners who took part in the 29th annual Laurel Memorial Run and Walk.  The annual flag relay began at The Resource Center's Jamestown location on Jones & Gifford Avenue around mid-morning... and, ended with a victory celebration at the TRC facility on Lake Shore Drive in Dunkirk.  TRC's Steve Waterson says students from several school districts took part... along with numerous law enforcement agencies.  Keith Gregoire says he ran the entire 31-mile relay -- not just for fun, but to help bring awareness about people with disabilities in the county, and support them.  State Senator George Borrello says Wayne and Elaine Hotelling, whose late daughter Laurel lived with Down syndrome, are an inspiration to those in Chautauqua County who have a developmental disability.  Borrello says it also raises money for that effort.  He also presented the Hotellings with a certificate of recognition.  The event continued much of the day Saturday in Silver Creek with several running and walking activities... including Laurel's Legacy Lap.

Wendel hopes to see new owners of Hotel Lenhart able to do what new owners have done for White Inn...
Chautauqua County's top-elected official says if the new owners of a hotel in Bemus Point can do what the new owners of the White Inn in Fredonia have been able to do... that would be fantastic.  County Executive P.J. Wendel praised the efforts of the White Inn's Steve St. George and Devin Jones in bringing back the historic hotel and gathering place.  Wendel says he's hoping that Bill and Jill Curry... the new owners of the Hotel Lenhart... can do the same for that 130-year-old hotel.  He was pleased to see the Curry's allow and ongoing tradition of high school prom goers having their pictures taken on the Lenhart's porch.  The Curry's stayed at the Lenhart as a family three decades ago when they had been going to Chautauqua Institution for "quite some time."  They first began looking at buying the Lenhart in early 2022... and, back in May assumed ownership of the historic structure.  It took some time to secure financing... but, the Pittsburgh couple made it happen... and, they look forward to renovating the hotel and developing it from 52 rooms to 40 to allow for more space in each one.  Wendel made his comments during a recent "Community Spotlight" program.

Sex offender living in Westfield arrested for failure to register with authorities...
A registered sex offender living at the Thruway Motel in Westfield has been arrested for allegedly not updating his address with local law enforcement and New York state.  Westfield Police say they received a tip that a Level-2 Offender... 45 year-old Clarence Williams III... was living at the motel and has not notified authorities.  Investigators determined that Williams had been living at the local motel since June 2... and, he had 10-days to notify law enforcement of his change in address.  Williams was arrested without incident at the motel last Wednesday on one count of failure to register or verify as a sex offender.  That's a Class E Felony.  Williams was jailed pending arraignment.

City man arrested for alleged theft, and damage done to CVS store in Brooklyn Square...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly shoplifting merchandise... and, damaging property inside the CVS Store in Brooklyn Square.  City police say they were called to the scene at 19 South Main St. for a reported larceny.  Officers say they determined that 48 year-old Lawrence Gibbons had stolen items from the store and caused damage before leaving.  He was later found nearby... and arrested for petty larceny... and, fourth-degree criminal mischief.  Due to State Bail Reform... Gibbons was released with an appearance ticket for city court at a later date.

Temporary access ramp being installed by NYSDOT from I-86 to Bemus Point business district...
The New York State Department of Transportation reports it's working to restore access to the village of Bemus Point's central business district while the Chautauqua Lake bridges are rehabilitated.  In a press release issued by DOT District 5 Director... Eric Meka Friday... he acknowledged the "disruptions this project has caused for local residents."  With that... Meka says they will be installing a temporary exit ramp on Interstate 86 Eastbound.  He adds the temporary ramp is currently under construction and expected to open in the coming weeks.  The ramp will then remain open for the duration of the project.  In recent weeks... business operators in Bemus Point have complained about loss of business due to the project... and, loss of access to the village's business district.

Jamestown woman arrested for assault following violent domestic incident...
A city woman has been arrested for allegedly assaulting another person during a domestic incident on Jamestown's northside early Thursday evening.  City police say they were called to the scene shortly after 5 p.m., and, investigated.  Officers say they found that 23 year-old Cassandra Nickerson struck the victim in the face... the forcibly removed the victim’s shirt... and, held the victim by the throat for an for a period of time.  No significant injury was reported.  Police took Nickerson into custody... and, she was take to the city jail pending arraignment on charges of third-degree assault... fourth-degree criminal mischief... and, criminal obstruction of breathing.

Man and woman from Jamestown jailed on drug charges following raid...
A man and woman from Jamestown have been arrested following a drug raid on their upstairs apartment earlier this week on the city's southside.  City police say members of the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force... and the Sheriff's Departments Narcotics Investigators executed a search warrant at 102 McKinley Ave. about 12:20 p.m. this past Monday.  They located  43 year-old Sarah Nickerson... and, 41 year-old Ryan Edwards inside... and, a search turned up 34 grams of methamphetamine... digital scales... packaging materials and a small amount of cash.  Police say both Nickerson and Edwards were each charged with third-and, fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphenalia.  Both were held pending arraignment.  Anyone with information about drug or other criminal activity are asked to call Jamestown police at the tip line at 483-TIPS... that's 483-8477... or the Sheriff's Office at 664-2420.

Gillibrand blasts Congressional Republicans on passing $9B Rescission package, which includes major cuts to foreign aid and public broadcasting...   
New York's Junior U.S. Senator is blasting the $9-billion federal rescissions package that's now been approved by both the Senate and House.  The measure claws back foreign aid... and funding for public broadcasting.  While both are troublesome... Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand was especially critical of the cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.  During a virtual press conference Thursday... she said she's "appalled that Senate Republicans voted to slash funding for the programs that our rural communities rely on."  Gillibrand says the funding supports some 1,500 radio and tv stations, as well as programming from PBS and NPR... and special emergency alert systems.  By rescinding funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting... Gillibrand says the legislation threatens to gut funding for the local radio and television stations that millions of families rely on for trusted news, high-quality educational content, and lifesaving emergency alerts.  She says fellow Democrats in Congress plan to advocate for restoring those funds.  Gillibrand says the Trump Administration has acted unlawfully in making many of the the cuts before Congress had taken a vote on the previously approved funding.

Rodeo grounds in Gerry mostly set for 80th annual Gerry Rodeo...
The Gerry Rodeo Grounds off Route 60 are relatively quiet right now... but, in about two-weeks... they'll be full as Gerry becomes "Rodeo City."  It's the 80th year of the rodeo... and, the grounds have shaped up nicely in spite of all the recent rains.  Spokesman Paul Cooley has been at every rodeo since the beginning... and, says -- thanks to Chairman Tom Atwell -- they're ready.  Cooley says the committee especially takes a lot of pride in the grounds looking good.  Atwell says the rodeo is the biggest fund-raiser for the Gerry Volunteer Fire Department... which allows them to purchase equipment and other necessities for the department.  He says this year's proceeds will help them expand the fire hall to better handle their trucks.  Atwell considers himself the quarterback of a large group of volunteers who give of their time for the rodeo.  He says they usually have about 120 to 130 volunteers who help out each year.  The Gerry Rodeo begins on Wed., July 30... and, runs four-straight nights through Sat., Aug. 2... with peformances begining at 8 p.m. each night.  They'll be preceeded at 5 p.m. each day by their traditional beef barbeque dinners.  Presale tickets are available at the rodeo website gerryrodeo.org.... or at the ticket gates each night.  For more information... call 985-4847.

City woman arrested for menacing with a knife...
A city woman has been arrested for allegedly threatening a neighbor with a knife during an incident on Jamestown's southside early Thursday morning.  City police were called to the scene of a reported harassment about 5 a.m., and, their investigation determined that 49 year-old Georgeanna Ribbing had pulled the knife... and, menaced the neighbor.  Officers arrested her for second-degree menacing... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, she was jailed pending arraignment.

City woman arrested for menacing with a knife...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly threatening a neighbor with a knife during an incident on the city's southside.  Jamestown police were called to the scene of a reported harassment about 5 a.m. Thursday morning... and, their investigation determined that 49 year-old Georgeanna Ribbing had pulled the knife... and, menaced the neighbor.  Officers arrested her for second-degree menacing... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, she was jailed pending arraignment.

Man arrested in Jamestown for being fugitive wanted for homicide in Puerto Rico...
A man wanted for homicide in Puerto Rico has been arrested on a warrant on Jamestown's eastside.  City police say they were given information that 26 year-old Bryan Rivera-Montanez could be at the residence... and, they went to the location shortly before 11:30 a.m. Wednesday... and, Rivera-Montanez answered the door.  Police took him into custody without incident... and, he was charged with being a fugitive from justice.  Montanez was jailed pending arraignment.    

Pair of city men arrested for break-in at northside home...
Two city men are accused of breaking into a home on Jamestown's northside... and, damaging the interior of the residence.  City police were called to the unidentified scene just after 1 a.m. Tuesday... and, found 43 year-old Joseph Helms coming out of the residence.  Officers quickly arrested Helms... and, then searched the home.  During that search... they found 31 year-old Cody Reichenbach... who was also taken into custody.  Police say their investigation showed both men had forced their way into the home and damaged the interior.  Both men were charged with third-degree burglary... third-degree criminal mischief... and, third-degree criminal tampering... and, possession of burglar's tools.  They were jailed pending arraignment.

With sponsorships for each day, 13 year-old BRWS will have free admission for entire tournament...
The 45th anniversary 13 year-old Babe Ruth World Series begins in about a month at Jamestown's Diethrick Park... and, admission for the entire week will be free.  That from Local Committee Vice-President -- and Jamestown Mayor -- Kim Ecklund... who says the local committee now has all eight-days of the tournament sponsored.  Games begin on Sat., Aug. 16.  Ecklund says there's been a fungus issue at the stadium with all the rain from the past few months... but, their crew -- led by Dom Salvaggio -- is taking care of that... along with Parks Manager Dan Stone.  He says everyone is working hard to have everything in place before tournament play begins.  Prior to the World Series itself... Ecklund says the series committee will have it's major fund-raiser at the end of the month... as the annual "World Series of Wheels" will be held on Sat., July 26 at Bergman Park... with a rain date of the following day, Sunday, July 27.  Ecklund says the local World Series all-star team which will take part has begun practicing... but, adds they still need "Diamond Girls..." and Host Family Ambassadors for the series.  For more information... call the Mayor's Office at 483-7600... or go to the Babe Ruth World Series Facebook page.

Cornell Coop. Extension welcomes Sofia Russo as new Agriculture Program Coordinator...
Cornell  Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County says it has hired a new Agriculture Program Coordinator who has hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, education, and community outreach.  The Extention has announced that Sofia Russo has already begun working in this new position... created following an internal capacity study which has led to "innovative growth and positive restructuring."   This new position will increase capacity and efficiency within CCE Chautauqua while providing outstanding support and guidance to our county’s agricultural community.  Extension Chautauqua Agriculture Team Leader, Katelyn Walley-Stoll, says they're very "excited to have Sofia’s diverse experiences, passion for agriculture and education join our growing team.  Her skills and dedication will help us to continue to grow our program... to continue to meet the needs of our community."  Walley-Stoll says Russo is "a budding agricultural professional with strong interest in sustainable food systems and community-based agriculture.  She recently earned her bachelor’s degree in Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Conservation from Canisius University.  Since 2023, she has worked with Cornell Cooperative Extension in various roles, including as a farm technician and as an intern with the Lake Erie Regional Grape Program."

Laurel Run activities begin on Friday...
An annual event celebrating the achievements of Chautauqua County residents with developmental disabilities gets underway this Friday morning.  Activities for the 29th annual Laurel Memorial Run/Walk are slated for Fri., July 18 and Sat., July 19.  The event is named after Laurel Hotelling, who lived with Down syndrome until her passing in 2017.  Her father, Wayne, says Laurel was a very positive person... and her attitude was infecitous to "so many people."  A flag relay run kicks off the activities on Friday.  The Resource Center's Steve Waterson says the relay begins in Jamestown and ends in Dunkirk... and they get a number of school students who take part each year.  Waterson says employees of the Lakeview Shock Incarceration Facility will also participate in the relay.  The signature event is Laurel's Legacy Lap, which is part of the Saturday activities in Silver Creek. Waterson says that's open to anyone with a disability... and, money raised through Laurel Memorial Run/Walk goes to Filling the Gap, Inc.  Starting this year, a portion of the proceeds will go to the Dr. John Vona Smile Fund at the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation.  For more information... go to laurel-run.com.

Two Jamestown men arrested for alleged break-in at southside residence...
Two men from Jamestown have been arrested for allegedly breaking into a residence on the city's northside... and, damaging the interior of the house.  Jametown police were called to the unidentified scene just after 1 a.m. Tuesday... and, found 43 year-old Joseph Helms coming out of the residence.  Officers quickly arrested Helmes... and, then cleared the residence.  During that search... they found 31 year-old Cody Reichenbach... who was also taken into custody.  Police say their investigation showed both men forced entry into the home and caused damage inside.  Both men were jailed pending arraignment on charges of third-degree burglary... third-degree criminal mischief, and criminal tampering... and, possession of burglar's tools.

Woman from town of Hanover arrested for menacing...         
A town of Hanover woman has been arrested for allegedly threatening another person with a "dangerous instrument" during an altercaton in the north county town.  Sheriff's officers were called to the scene at 12168 Allegany Rd. shortly before 11 p.m. Tuesday night for the incident.  Deputies say their investigation shows that 36 Jaralyn Majak displayed the instrument... causing fear of serious injury or death.  Majak was arrested for second-degree menacing... and, taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment.

County Fair opens Tuesday... events set through Sunday...
The 2025 Chautauqua County Fair has officially opened for business.  Several dignitaries were on hand Tuesday for the opening ceremonies at the County Fairgrounds in Dunkirk, including the traditional firing of a Civil War-era cannon.  State Senator George Borrello, ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, says people "come from all over" to attend the fair, adding that it highlights what the county does best... which is agriculture.  Borrello calls it "America's Family Fair."  Fredonia Mayor Mike Ferguson says the fair serves as a "vital platform" to showcase local culture... as well as youth programs like 4-H and FFA.  Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel echoed Borrello and Ferguson regarding the fair's commitment to agriculture.  He also indicated the potential to help "jazz up" the fairgrounds.  Several other elected leaders were on hand... along with representatives from the offices of Congressman Nick Langworthy, Governor Kathy Hochul and Assemblyman Andrew Molitor.  The Fair runs through Sun., July 20.

City Council considering zoning changes for R-2 area near Jackson-Taylor Park...
The Jamestown City Council's Housing Committee has begun discussion on a proposed zoning change to an area around Jackson-Taylor Park.  The proposal was brought by the Department of Development's Deputy Director of Housing Policy and Development, Kasie Foulk, Monday night... and, would change the zoning in that area just south of the park from R-2 residential to C-1 Neighborhood-Commercial.  Committee Chairman Bill Reynolds outlined what area is involved... from an area of West 6th St. to Monroe and over to the Riverwalk.  There's also an area from the old neighborhood streets to Isabella Ave.  Reynolds say the DOD wants to repurpose some of the lots in that area to get vacant warehouses back in use... or torn down.  He says the proposal is being looked at by the city's Planning Commission... and, lawmakers are planning a public hearing on the plan at their July 28 voting session.  The new zoning designation would allow multi-family residential properties... and professional office... general office... and, personal service establishments.

Two Olean men arrested in Catt. County on drug and theft charges in car reported stolen from Jamestown...
Two Cattaraugus County men have been arrested following a traffic stop in Olean in which they were found with a significant amount of drugs in their possession... and, were in a car reported stolen from Jamestown.  Sheriff's officers in Little Valley say the stopped the car... driven by 40 year-old Anthony Margeson just after 4 a.m. on July 4 on Washington Street in Olean.  Deputies say they saw durg paraphernalia in plain sight... and, their K-9 "Lex" indicated there were narcotic drugs inside the vehicle.  They allegedly found nearly 26 grams of methamphetamine... a quantity of suspected oxycodone pills... multiple plastic baggies... a scale lock picking tools... a stolen smart phone... four stolen debit cards... and other items.  Both Margeson and Smith were arrested... with Margeson charged with second and third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... three counts of fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... and aggravated unlicensed operation.  Smith is charged with three counts of forth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.  Both were jailed in Little Valley pending arraignment.

Randolph woman arrested for shoplifting at Tops Market in Jamestown...
A woman from Randolph has been arrested for allegedly shoplifting merchandise from the Tops Market store on Jamestown's northside.  City police were called to the scene at 2000 Washington St. about 4 p.m. Monday on a report of the thefts.  Officers say they found 32 year-old Tori Carlson still at the scene... and, she was arrested without incident.  Carlson was charged with petty larceny... and, was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.  She was later issued an appearance ticket and released.

Boil Water Order lifted in Fredonia for village water customers...
The boil water order for customers of the village of Fredonia's Water System has been lifted.  However... residents are still being asked to conserve water to keep the treatment system stable.  The Chautauqua County Health Department, and the village jointly announced the lifting of the order about mid-morning Tuesday... noting that turbidity in the distribution system has returned to acceptable levels and two consecutive days of testing indicate that the water throughout the distribution system is safe for drinking, cooking, making ice, and making coffee -- among others.  While turbidity levels at the treatment plant are currently in acceptable ranges... officials say a large increase in demand could disrupt the balance that has recently been restored to water treatment plant operations.  Ways to conserve water include:  taking shorter showers... turning off the water while shaving, washing up, brushing teeth, and washing dishes... do not water lawns and flowers... and, run only full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine.  For more information... contact the county Health Department at 753-4481... or the village of Fredonia at 679-2307.

Emergency repair project on large portion of East Second Street in Jamestown completed!...
It took just over a week to complete... but, emergency repairs and paving has been finished on East Second Street in Jamestown.  That from City Council Public Works Committee Chairman Randy Daversa during his report at Monday night's Council work session.  Daversa says he and other committee members are happy to see the project completed... to get the road to 2026... when a complete reconstruction of the road will be done.  Daversa says the westbound driving lane was completely milled and paved... and, the worst spots on the eastbound side were milled and paved.  The state... and it's contractor on the repair work brought in a milling machine to help get the old and broken up pavement taken up so new pavement and patchwork could be put in.  He says it's a "welcomed sight."  The multi-million dollar reconstruction project includes a nearly 3-mile section of East Second Street in the city from Foote Avenue to the city line with Falconer.  The project, expected to be substantially complete by the end of 2026, will involve milling and paving, traffic signal upgrades, drainage improvements, and pedestrian enhancements. 

Another Air Quality Health Advisory in place for region...
The State Department of Environmental Conservaiton has issued another Air Quality Health Advisory for all of Western and Central New York for today.  The advisory runs now until 11 p.m. tonight... and is due to "fine particulate matter" from the on-going wildfires in Canada.  The DEC has included both Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties in the advisory... and, DEC Meteorologists are predicting levels of pollution, either ozone or fine particulate matter, to exceed an Air Quality Index value of 100.  The AQI was created as an easy way to correlate levels of different pollutants to one scale, with a higher AQI value indicating a greater health concern.  They are urging the very young and very old... along with those with respiratory issues... to refrain from being outside for any extended period of time.

Ecklund says city moving ahead on new hirings to fill positions at city hall and BPU...
There's been some turn-over in Jamestown city government... and, it's continuing at city hall and at the Board of Public Utilities.  That from Jamestown Mayor Kim Ecklund... who says she's still working on whittling down the number of candidates for the fire chief's position... left vacant with the retirement of Matt Coon in early May.  In addition... Ecklund says the BPU has begun looking at candidates for General Manager Dave Leathers position once he retires in early 2026.  She adds they also have a new senior planner and code enforcement officer coming by the end of July.  As for Fire Chief... Ecklund says they have a very capable interim with Battalion Fire Chief Ryan Rousch.  She says part of the problem with filling that right now is finding someone either living in the city of Jamestown... or able to move here soon.  Ecklund says the BPU has at least 8 or 9 candidates to replace Leathers... who announced his retirement this past February.  It will take effect after the first of the new year in 2026.  He began working in the BPU's Electric Division in December of 2005... and, he later became a Deputy GM... then Interim GM.  He was formally appointed to the GM's post in March of 2008.

County Fair begins today...
While we're in the north county... the 144th edition of the Chautauqua County Fair got underway with the traditional civil-war cannon shot at the fairgrounds in Dunkirk.  Several dignitaries were on hand for the opening ceremonies on a sunny, warm and muggy morning.  Among them was State Senator George Borrello of Sunset Bay... who was originally from nearby Fredonia... and, says it's a great event that's all about "4-H, it's agriculture, it's about highlighting what we do best here."  As the ranking member of the State Senate's Agriculture Committee... Borrello added that he works hard to preserve the traditions and the economic driver that agriculture is in New York state.  Dignitaries also included Fredonia Mayor Mike Ferguson... former County Legislator Brian Abram -- representing Congressman Nick Langworthy... and a representive for State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor.

Jamestown man identified as person killed in fatal, Sunday motorcycle accident in city...
A city man has died from injuries suffered in a motorcycle crash on Jamestown's southside early Sunday afternoon.  City police say they were called to the area of Barrett and McKinley Avenues for an accident involving the lone motorcycle.  Officers say they identified the operator as 35 year-old Benny Salva... and, say he lost control of the bike, and it crashed into a tree.  Police say Jamestown fire rescuers and Chautauqua County EMS attempted life saving measures... but, Salva died at the scene.  The investigation is ongoing with the help of the county's Accident Reconstruction Team and the County Coroner's Office.

Long-time Ben Weitsman employee arrested for theft or more than $1-Mill from the company...
A long-time employee of a scrap metal recycling business on Jamestown's westside has been arrested for allegedly stealing more than $1-million from the company the past decade.  City police arrested 60 year-old Paul Weinstein Monday morning on one count of first-degree grand larceny following a joint investigation with the Chautauqua County District Attorneys' Office.  They allege that Weinstein took in excess of $1-million from Ben Weitsman of Jamestown on West 6th Street... and, he may hae also taken several million dollars more from the business.  He was arraigned in City Court this morning... and, is jailed on $50,000 cash bail... or $100,000 property bond.

Water testing begins today in Fredonia...
Turbidity levels in the Fredonia Water System have leveled out, and it has now entered the required testing phase.  The announcement was made Monday morning on the Fredonia Office of Emergency Management Facebook page.  It comes as Fredonia water customers remain under a boil water order until further notice.  Two consecutive days of negative test results are required by the Chautauqua County Health Department in order for the boil order to be lifted.  Two more water distribution events are planned from 12 Noon to 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. today at the Fredonia Fire Department.

Chautauqua County Fair to begin 142nd edition Tuesday, July 15...
The 142nd annual Chautauqua County Fair gets underway Tuesday... and, final preparations are being made for the yearly celebration of fun, food and farming.  The fair begins tomorrow -- Tuesday, July 15 -- and runs through Sunday, July 20.  County Fair Association President Linda Lanphere, says there will be plenty of activity throughout the course of the week, which officially begins with the traditional firing of their Civil War-era cannon with dignitaries on hand... and, then they'll move onto the dedicatiion of their new Conservation building.  The main events will take place at the Fair's Grandstand.  Lanphere says this year's lineup includes two demolition derbies, a truck and tractor pull, and a monster truck show.  She says the demo derbies will take place on Tuesday and Sunday.  On Wednesday, they'll have Figure-8 racing.  The Monster Truck Show will be held on Saturday night.  Lanphere adds that New Jersey-based Amusements of America will provide the rides on the midway for the second year in a row... and, they'll be bringing in some new rides this year.  She says new attractions at the fair will include the new Conservation and Education Center, tin smithing shows, and several new activities at Floral Hall.  Advance sale tickets are available for $10 at several locations throughout the county through Monday, gate admission is $15 starting Tuesday.

Sheriff's Office investigating pair of car fires in Cherry Creek...           
Chautauqua County Sheriff's investigators are looking into two reported vehicle fires in the town of Cherry Creek early Sunday morning that appear to have been deliberately set.  Deputies say Cherry Creek firefighters were called to the scene on Dredge Ditch Road shortly after 6 a.m., and, were later joined by the county's Fire Investigation Team.  Officers say the investigation found that the two unoccupied vehicle fires were incendiary in nature.  The investigation is ongoing by the Sheriff's Office... along with Jamestown police... the Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit... and, the Cherry Creek Fire Department.

Bemus Point man arrested in town of Ellery following raid on drug and weapons charges...
A Bemus Point man has been arrested following a raid on a trailer home at the High Acres Mobile Home Park in the town of Ellery last Friday.  Sheriff's officers say narcotics investigators with their office, and the Jamestown Police Department, executed a search warrant at 28 Second Street just before 1 p.m.  Deputies say they found 36 year-old Franklin Matteson III when they arrived.... they also seized 28.7 grams of fentanyl, 1 gram of crack cocaine, a loaded .40 calibur Glock handgun, nine high-capacity magazines, scales used for the sale and distribution of narcotics and $190 in cash.  Matteson was charged with three counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... criminal possession of a firearm and nine counts of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was taken to the County Jail pending centralized arraignment.  Nayone with information on suspicious or narcotics-related activity in their area should call the Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigators Tip line at either 1-800-344-8702 or 664-2420... or for the Jamestown Police Department Tip line,,. call 483-8477.

Man from Westfield arrested on multiple Felonies following alleged domestic dispute...
A Westfield man has been arrested following a domestic incident that spilled into the parking lot of a motel in the village... and, resulted in him trying to hit the woman with his car.  Westfield Police say they were called to a North Portage Road home about 9:30 a.m. last Saturday... and, spoke with the woman involved.  Officers say the victim told them that she and her boyfriend, 41 year-old Xovier Nieves, got into a verbal altercation... and, he allegedly threatened and shoved her.  She said the incident then escalated in the parking lot of the Thru-Way Motel, where Nieves allegedly drove a vehicle towards the woman.. forcing her to run.  Nieves then allegedly drove onto the sidwalk... and struck a curb damaging the car before he fled the scene.  He was later located by State Police and Sheriff's officers at the Barcelona Market and taken into custody without incident.  Nieves was taken to the Westfield Police Department for processing... and, later the county jail pending centralized arraignment on charges of second-degree attempted assault... second-degree harassment... and, second-degree reckless endangerment.

Good turn-out on hand for CAWTILE Rally against wind turbines in Lake Erie...
A group opposed to the effort to place large, industrial wind turbines in Lake Erie is continuing to push against the move in northern Chauauqua County.  A number of local and state officials were on hand with members of the Citizens Against Wind Turbines in Lake Erie -- also known as CAWTILE -- at a rally Wednesday in Sunset Bay.  Among those on hand was State Senator George Borrello, who says members of CAWTILE have gathered grassroots support over the years to voice their concerns across Western New York... and, they were joined by other elected officials, including State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor... and, State Senator Dave DiPietro.  Borrello... a Republican from Sunset Bay... says the rallygoers are expressing their rejection of putting a major source of drinking water in jeopardy.  He says a number of local towns... and, the Chautauqua and Erie County Legislatures have approved resolutions opposing the turbines on Lake Erie.  The rally was held at Sunset Bay Beach Club.

Repair work begins on East Second St. in Jamestown...
Major repair work to a large portion of East Second Street in Jamestown is underway this week... about a month behind schedule.  Mayor Kim Eckund says city officials are glad to see state crews finally beginning work to tear up, and replace eroded pavement.  Since East Second is a state road... New York has to take the lead in the project.  Ecklund says there were two reasons for the delay:  The late Spring weather... which included a lot of rain, and the need for an important piece of equipment -- a road milling machine -- the city does not have.  The state is working around traffic on East Second... between Foote Avenue and the city line with Falconer... so expect some delays.  Ecklund says this will be a temporary fix with the state doing a complete reconstruction next year.  She pointed out another reason for the delay in repair work... and, that is having difficulty obtaining some additional properties to improve access for the handicapped.  In fact... Ecklund says the City Council had to vote recently to take some property by Eminent Domain for the handicapped accessibility part of the project.  She made her comments for this weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

Man from Jamestown arrested for attempted robbery...
A passerby apparently thwarted an attempted strong-armed robbery in downtown Jamestown shortly before mid-morning Wednesday.  City police say they were called a report of a fight a few minutes before 8 a.m., and, located a 19 year-old man on the ground.  Officers say the victim told them that he was jumped by an unknown man... but, they add the suspect was located nearby.  Police say their investigation showed that 36 year-old John Lopez Alvarez had punched and kicked the victim and told the victim he was going to take property from him until the passerby yelled.  Lopez-Alvarez was arrested for third-degree attempted robbery... and taken to the city jail pending arraignment.

Schumer makes push to preserve federal funding for public broadcasting...
New York's Senior U.S. Senator is pushing to have the chamber vote "no" on the clawing back of more than $45-million for more than a dozen public TV and radio stations across the state.  Democrat Charles Schumer says Senate Republicans plan to gut funding for those stations... which he says provides important children's educational programs, news and rural matters.  Schumer he's seen it over two generations of his family... including himself watching the nightly news, and later his daughter when she watched Sesame Street.  While the funding cuts won't completely gut those stations... Schumer says "every region of the state could face major cuts to community programs... as well as lay-offs."  He adds that this could "blow a hole" in many public broadcast station budgets.  Overall... Schumer says the move could take more than one-billion dollars away from the country's public radio and television stations, which could devastate communities across the Upstate region.  He says in Western New York... WBFO... and, BTPM, Buffalo Toronto Public Media... would loses about 15% of its annual budget. 

Driver involved in fatal, truck-bicycle accident to not face charges...
The driver of the pick-up truck that struck and killed an 11 year-old Jamestown boy last month will not face charges in connection with the accident.  City police late Tuesday said they and the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office's Accident Reconstructiion Team concluded their investigation... and, determined the driver was not at fault... and, there would be no charges filed.  Police say the boy... Daniel Galarza-Ramos... was struck while riding his bike at the intersection of Willard and Kinney Streets.  Galarza-Ramos was taken to Oishei Children's Hospital in Buffalo... where he died the following day.

Latest rally against industrial wind turbines in Lake Erie being held today...
An effort to oppose the putting industrial wind turbines in Lake Erie will be renewed this afternoon.  A number of local and state officials will be joined by the Citizens Against Wind Turbines in Lake Erie -- also known as CAWTILE -- at a rally in Sunset Bay.  Among those on hand will be State Senator George Borrello, who says members of CAWTILE have gathered grassroots support over the years to voice their concerns across Western New York.  Borrello says that includes a number of people from Chautauqua and Erie Counties... as well as the city of Buffalo.  Borrello... a Republican from Sunset Bay... says the rallygoers will express their rejection of putting a major source of drinking water at risk.  He says the turbines would also hurt the lakes asthetics without producing any noticable impact on climate change.  Borrello has noted that Chautauqua and Erie counties passed their resolutions opposing wind turbines this year.  Today's rally at the Sunset Bay Beach Club is scheduled for 4 p.m.

Molitor says his view of the importance of the NYS legislature grew during his first legislative session, but, is critical of some aspects of it...
It's been a learning experience for first-term New York State Assemblyman Andrew Molitor... who just wrapped up his first legislative session in Albany.  Not only is Molitor a first-time legislator... it's the first time he's ever held elected office.  Prior to running for election last year... Molitor says he never gave much thought to how important the legislature is to the state... and, each member's constituents.  He believes that people want their representatives to take their voices to Albany, and make strong and persuasive arguments for the legislation they propose, support -- or oppose.  However... Molitor says, too often in Albany, there are too many ways to silence voices.  The Westfield Republcan says one example is a bill can be submitted on the floor with less than 15 minutes notice, and not have to go through committee.  Molitor says he has some new legislation that he's submitted... including one that continues bail reform for lesser crimes... but, puts it back in place for more serious or violent acts.  He says there are still certain crimes in the bail reform statute that are violent, or heinous.  Molitor says he's also submitted a bill that would better protect school teachers, nurses, police, and others under "protected status" from being spit on, or struck -- even if there are no injuries.  That bill would make it a Class-E Felony.  Molitor made his comments during a recent "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

Three teens from Dunkirk accused of stealing car... 
Three teenagers have been charged after they were allegedly found operating a stolen vehicle in the city of Dunkirk last Tuesday.  Dunkirk police say the three juveniles -- ages 13, 14 and 15 -- and the car were located in the area of Lamphere Street and West Doughty Street about 1:30 p.m. by an off-duty officer... who informed officers on patrol.  The vehicle had been reported stolen from a location on Courtney Street earlier in the day.  Police located the three teens and charged them with third-degree criminal possession of stolen property... and, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.  They were issued appearance tickets for Family Court.

Man from Falconer arrested following domestic incident at town of Ellicott hotel...
A Falconer man is accused of shoving his girlfriend during a domestic incident in the parking lot of a hotel in the village.  Ellicott Town Police were called to the Quality Inn for a domestic incident this past Sunday... and, arrested 25 year-old Jacob Hodgkin for second-degree harassment and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child.  Officers say the incident occured in front of two children in the parking lot.  Hodgkin was taken to the County Jail for centralized arraignment... and, issued appearance tickets for Ellicott Town Court at a later date.

Man from Hanover faces harassment and criminal mischief charges following Sunday night incident...
A town of Hanover man has been arrested for allegedly harassing another person... and, damaging that person's property.  Sheriff's officers say they, and State Police, were called to the undisclosed location shortly before 8 p.m. Sunday for a reported altercation.  Deputies say their investigation found that 44 year-old Joshua Sweda intentionally damaged the victim's property... and, tried to make physical contact with the victim.  They arrested Sweda for fourth-degree criminal mischief... and, second-degree harassment... and, he was issued appearance tickets for Hanover Town Court at a later date.

Boil Water order in place for village of Fredonia Water System after power outage trips off treatment plant...
A power outage this morning in the Dunkirk-Fredonia area has led the Chautauqua County Health Department and the village of Fredonia have issued a boil water order for all Fredonia water customers.  The Health Department says this includes properties outside the village boundaries supplied by the Fredonia system.  The State Department of Health requires a boil water order anytime water is not adequately treated.  Officials say a treatment technique violation at the water treatment plant resulted in high turbidity such that water entering the distribution system was not adequately treated.  This water could contain harmful microbes... and, boiling the water kills bacteria and other microbes that may be present. All Fredonia water customers must boil water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth and making coffee until further notice.  Water must be brought to a rolling boil for one minute then cooled prior to use.  Boiled or bottled water must be used to wash dishes by hand; dishes should be allowed to completely air dry after washing.  Home dishwashers that reach a temperature of 170°F and have a full dry cycle do not need boiled.  The water may be used for bathing as long as it is not consumed.  The water is safe for laundry.  For more information... call the village at (716) 679-2307... or the county Health Department at (716) 753-4481.

Cause of house fire in Silver Creek remains undetermined... 
A weekend fire heavily damaged a house in the north county village of Silver Creek.  Firefighters from Silver Creek, Sunset Bay and Forestville were called to 20 Robinson St. shortly after 11:30 p.m. Saturday... and, found heavy fire at the back of the home on arrival.  Silver Creek Fire officials say they made an "aggressive push inside" that stopped the fire in about 20 minutes.  Crews also rescued two pets from the house.  No injuries were reported.  The county's Fire Investigation Team was called in... but, no cause has been determined at this time.

Man from town of Hanover arrested for harassment and criminal mischief...
A town of Hanover man has been arrested for allegedly harassing another person... and, damaging that person's property.  Sheriff's officers say they, and State Police, were called to the undisclosed location shortly before 8 p.m. Sunday for a reported altercation.  Deputies say their investigation found that 44 year-old joshua Sweda intentionally damaged the victim's property... and, tried to make physical contact with the victim.  They arrested Sweda for fourth-degree criminal mischief... and, second-degree harassment... and, he was issued appearance tickets for Hanover Town Court at a later date.

Cassadaga man arrested for DWI after car crashes into porch...
A Cassadaga man has been arrested for allegedly driving drunk when his vehicle crashed into a porch on Mill Street in the village.  Sheriff's officers were called to a vehicle complaint just after 2 p.m. Sunday... and, on arrival found the car had run into the porch.  Deputies were able to locate the driver and identified him as 62 year-old Stephen Bond.  Their investigation found that Bond had been drinking... and, he was arrested and charged with DWI, and Aggravated driving while intoxicated.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Three Dunkirk teens arrested after allegedly stealing car...
Three teenagers have been charged after they were allegedly found operating a stolen vehicle in the city of Dunkirk last Tuesday.  Dunkirk police say the three juveniles -- ages 13, 14 and 15 -- and the car were located in the area of Lamphere Street and West Doughty Street about 1:30 p.m. by an off-duty officer... who informed officers on patrol.  The vehicle had been reported stolen from a location on Courtney Street earlier in the day.  Police located the three teens and charged them with third-degree criminal possession of stolen property... and, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.  They were issued appearance tickets for Family Court.

Police in Dunkirk arrest man following fight and thrown beer bottle...
Dunkirk Police have arrested a north county city man with a handful of charges stemming from a report of a fight last Thursday.  City officers were called to the area of Lake Shore Drive East and Middle Road at about 1:30 PM and spoke with a woman, who alleged that 21-year-old Dariel Ayala had shoved her and threw a beer bottle at her before fleeing the scene in her vehicle.  Police found that there was an active order of protection the victim has against Ayala.  Officers add that a second victim was taken to Brooks Memorial Hospital for treatment after Ayala allegedly struck her with a beer bottle.  He was taken into custody a short time later on charges of second-degree criminal contempt... second-degree harassment... second-degree assault... and, third-degree unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.  Ayala is being held in the Chautauqua County Jail on $25,000 cash bail.

North County man arrested for allegedly stealing copper and other items at town of Harmony business...         
A Forestville man has been arrested on burglary and grand larceny charges following an investigation into reported burglaries at a town of Harmony business last October.  Sheriff's deputies say the complaints mainly involved several thousand dollars worth of copper materials, and other property that was stolen from inside the building on multiple occasions.  After several months of further investigation... officers arrested 45 year-old Larry Whitehill, Jr. for third-degree burglary... third-degree grand larceny... and, third-degree criminal mischief.  Whitehill was issued appearance tickets for Harmony Town Court at a later date.

City man dies from injuries suffered in weekend motorcycle crash in Jamestown...     
A man from Jamestown has now been identified as the person killed in Sunday morning's motocycle crash on the city's northside.  Jamestown police say 26 year-old Kyle Pitts was traveling on the bike in the area of Buffalo Street and Beechview Avenue just before 8 a.m. when the motorcycle went off the roadway and struck a telephone pole.  Officers say Pitts was rushed to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital   City police say Pitts later succumbed to his injuries.  The Sheriff's Department's Accident Recontruction Team is assisting with the ongoing investigation into the accident.

One person suffers serious burns in early morning fire in Frewsburg...
One person is being treated for burns from a house fire in Frewsburg early Monday morning that has now been ruled accidental by investigators.  Frewsburg Fire Chief Charlie Piazza says his crews were called to the scene at 50 Water St. shortly after 5 a.m.  Piazza says they found heavy fire coming from the back of the building when they arrived, and they laid two handlines to get the flames out.  He says a burn victim was found... and, flown to the Erie County Medical Center in Buffalo.  That person reportedly had serious burns.  Piazza says four other people inside the home were able to get out safely.  Piazza says it took about an hour and 40 minutes to bring the blaze under control... and, he adds that seven mutual aid companies were called in to assist.  Crews were at the scene for several hours.  Chautauqua County Fire Investigators determined that the fire originated on the second story of the structure... and, was caused by an electrical wiring issue inside the building.

Town of Portland crash sends one person to the hospital...
One person had to be sent to a Buffalo-area hospital after a car crashed into a utility pole in the town of Portland about mid-afternoon last Thursday.  Chautauqua County Sheriff's dispatchers say officers were called to the area of Thayer and Colt Roads shortly after 2 p.m.  They say one person had to be flown to the hospital with serious injuries.  One other person escaped with minor injuries.  No other details have been released. 

Six year-old reported missing in town of Pomfret last weekend found safe and sound...
A six-year-old child who went missing about mid-morning Saturday in the town of Pomfret was found about two hours later safe and sound.  Sheriff's officers and State Police received a report of the missing child just after 10 a.m. in the area of the BOCES on the Fredonia-Stockton Road... and, several agencies and resources were brought in to search for the child... including the Fredonia Fire Department... Chautauqua County EMS... Alstar Ambulance... State Forest Rangers... the county's Tech Rescue... and, CAST Team... the Jamestown and Dunkirk Police Drone Teams... and others.  Deputies say an officer located the child just before 12 Noon about a mile from the incident location in the Canadaway Creek.  Officers say the child was not injured... but, was taken to Brooks Memorial Hospital for an evaluation.

Wendel says conditions in south basin of Chautauqua Lake are "very disappointing..."
The Fourth of July period kicks the Summer boating, fishing and swimming season off on Chautauqua Lake.  However... lake conditions have been "very disappointing" to Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel.  The Burtis Bay area near Celoron has been a particular trouble spot with weeds... and, recent some dead ducks were found in that area of the lake.  Wendel says lake groups and the state Department of Environmental Conservation have been looking into what happened there.  Wendel says the county, and other entities were involved in highlight some places in the county for a "Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid" program to promote the county.  However... he says the area around the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel could not be used due to the weed situation.  Wendel says... while it's hard to tell if it was a factor or not... new DEC Wetland regulations may have played a role.  He says you need a permit now if you harvest weeds within 100 feet of water less than 6-feet deep.  Wendel made his comments for last weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

Man from Dunkirk jailed for allegedly being found with gun reported stolen in town of Ellicott...
A Dunkirk man was jailed on 50-thousand dollars bail for allegedly being found in possession of a loaded pistol reported stolen a month prior in the town of Ellicott.  Dunkirk Police received a report of a subject armed with a pistol at Wright Park Sunday evening, June 22, about 7 p.m.  Officers arrived and located a person matching the description given... and tried to stop the man... identified as 25-year-old Kareem Caldwell.  He was detained him and they searched the water where he was... and, eventually four a pistol and loaded magazine. Officers say the pistol had been reported stolen in Ellicott last May.  They add that the area Caldwell was in was heavily populated with families and children and included a playground area.  Caldwell was charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, criminal possession of a firearm in a sensitive location, fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property... and, tampering with physical evidence. 

No. County legislator charged with Election Law Violation...
A first-term member of the Chautauqua County Legislature has been charged with illegal voting following a lengthy investigation into a complaint made to the Sheriff's Office.  Deputies say 56 year-old Marcus Buchanan of Dunkirk is accused of violating State Election Law pertaining to the use of absentee ballots during the 2023 election cycle.  Buchanan was issued an appearance ticket... and, will answer to the charges in Dunkirk City Court.

Stockton man killed in fatal motorcycle crash at 4th of July holiday period begins...
A man from Stockton has died from injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident on Route 62 in the town of Kiantone early Wednesday evening.  Sheriff's officers say they and other agencies were called to the scene near the junction with Route 60 shortly before 6:30 p.m.  Deputies say their investigation showed that 49 year-old Thad Keefer was westbound on Route 62 and was trying to pass other vehicles when he lost control of his bike... and, went into a ditch and the motorcycle became airborne.  Officers say Keefer was rushed to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital where he later died.

Two Dunkirk men arrested on drug-related charges following Tuesday raid... 
Two men from Dunkirk have been arrested during a drug raid in the north county city where police seized a large amount of drugs... a handgun... and drug proceeds.  Sheriff's officers say an investigation led to a search warrant being executed at 501-502 Washington Avenue just after 1 p.m. Tuesday.  Deputies say narcotics investigators from their office, and Dunkirk Police were assisted by the Dunkirk SRT Team... and, found 40 year-old Bobby Ross and 27 year-old Jamal Robinson inside.  During the search... investigators seized 23.3 grams of cocaine... 40 dosage units of Heroin... 10.1-grams of Ecstasy, scales and packaging material used for the sale and distribution of narcotics.  They also found a loaded .380 handgun, and just over $1,200 in cash.  Ross is charged with four counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  Officers say Robinson was charged with seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Both men were arraigned in Dunkirk City Court pending further court action. 

City man pleads guilty in federal court to coercing two homeless women into commiting commercial sex acts...
A Jamestown man has pleaded guilty in federal court to coercing two homeless women into performing commercial sex acts by providing transportation, food and drugs to the victims.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo has announced that 34 year-old Anthony Burris entered the plea before Senior U.S. District Court Judge William Skretny to two counts of enticing travel to engage in sexual activity.  Prosecutors say between June of 2020... and, March of 2021... Burris got the two women, who were both addicted to drugs, to perform the sex acts by providing or withholding drugs... threatening use of physical violence... providing transportation, housing, a cell phone and food to the victims.  DiGiacomo says Burris posted ads on-line... and, transported the women to various places in Western New York and Pennsylvania for sexual encounters... after which he got the proceeds.  Prosecutors say the charge carries a maximum of 20 years in prison... and, a $250,000 fine.

Quattrone says Sheriff's Office nearly finished with it's investigation into Officer-Involved Shooting...
Chautauqua County Sheriff Jim Quattrone says his department's investigation into the recent fatal, officer-involved shooting in the town of Mina is nearly complete.  However, Quattrone says it may still be a while before the New York Attorney General's Office completes its findings... as required by law... for any officer-involved shooting in the state.  He says he hopes the A-G Office's probe is not drawn out as it has sometimes in the past.  In one case... it took about two years to complete.  The incident on Mina-French Creek Road on June 18th resulted in the death of 66-year-old Mark Bemis, who was involved in a domestic dispute prior to the shooting.  Quattrone says he's confident there was no wrongdoing on the part of deputies... and adds that the one deputy who was injured is expected to make a full recovery.

Langworthy votes with majority to approve "One Big Beautiful Bill" in Congress...
Republican leaders in the House of Representatives were able to convince enough holdouts to vote in favor of President Donald Trump's "One Big, Beautiful Bill" this afternoon.  However... many of them --  including local Congressman Nick Langworthy -- were already in line... and, he voiced his support for the measure just recently approved in the Senate.  The Buffalo-area Republican took to the House Floor Wednesday calling for passage to preserve the Trump-era tax cuts... along with new ones on tipped wages, and overtime.  He says that will help working people get ahead.  Langworthy adds the bill will protect and strengthen Medicaid in much the same way it did after "Workfare" was instituted under the Clinton Administration.  The president is now expected to sign the measure on July 4... which was the arbitrary deadline to set to get the deal in place.

Fireworks displays announced on Live CHQ...
There are plenty of professional fireworks displays taking place in the immediate Jamestown-area... and, Chautauqua County.  On Friday the 4th... there will be fireworks at 9:30 p.m. at the Pier in Dunkirk.  There will be activities leading up to a flare lighting and fireworks at Findley Lake.  Bemus Point will again have it's fireworks off the barge at 10 p.m.  In Lakewood... the annual Summerfest begins in the morning with the annual Firecracker Run and Walk... there'll also be food and music until fireworks at about 10 p.m.... and, Mayville's annual Fourth of July celebration begins with the annual parade through the village at 10 a.m., and, concludes with fireworks at 10 p.m. at Lakeside Park. 

Cunningham-Carper indicted by Grand Jury for alleged indiscriminant shooting in Jamestown last May 8... 
A Jamestown teenager has been arrested for allegedly firing a gun "indiscriminantly" at another young man back in early May and wounding the victim.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt, and Jamestown police jointly announced late Tuesday that a secret County Grand Jury indictment was unsealed Tuesday morning... charging 19 year old Marquan Cunningham-Carper with first-degree assault... and, two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon arising from the May 8 shooting incident.  Schmidt says -- "Every single shooting incident and illegal possession and use of a gun in our community hurts us all.  This instance -- the indiscriminate shooting in the backside of a young man who was merely walking home after shopping at a nearby store -– says it all about where we stand as a community and the police’s ongoing fight, in which they are outgunned and outnumbered, to keep us safe and rid our streets of violent offenders."  He adds that this is the first step in the case against Cunningham-Carper... and says they decided to bring their investigation to the Grand Jury due to the seriousness of the crimes committed here, and our concerns for public safety."  However... he says the investigation is ongoing, and they anticipate developing further evidence.  Schmidt says Cunningham-Carper pled not guilty in county court... and, Judge Foley set bail at $1-million cash... or $2-million.  If convicted, he faces a maximum prison term of 25 years followed by 5 years of parole supervision. 

City teen gets 4 years in federal prison on Meth trafficking conviction...
A Jamestown teenager has been sentenced to four years in federal prison following his conviction for trafficking methamphetamine.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo has announced that 19 year-old Raymond Medina... who had been convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine... received the sentenced from U.S. District Court Judge Lawrence Vilardo.  Prosecutors say in late February of 2024... Jamestown police received a domestic call at a home where the resident had a valid order of protection against Medina.  When they arrived... police saw Medina leaving... and, an officer made contact with him.  However... Medina immediately became argumentative and began to back away.  When the officer tried to detain him, Medina pulled away.  The officer advised Medina to stop, but he refused and yelled at the officer.  It appeared that Medina was reaching towards his waistband... and, he then ran off.  The officer unsuccessfully deployed his taser... and, a perimeter was set up and officers used footprints in the snow and a K-9 to track Medina.  He was found trying to hide on the ground behind a shed... and, was taken into custody without further incident.  Along the route that Media fled, officers recovered a quantity of suspected meth packaged for individual sale. 

Dunkirk man sentenced to 11 years in state prison for violating his probation...
A Dunkirk man has been sentenced to 11 years in state prison... and, three-years post-release supervision for violating his probation earlier this year in Jamestown.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says 45 year-old Ronnie Walker received the sentence Monday from County Court Judge David Foley.  Schmidt says... in May of 2023... Walker was arrested on five counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, criminally using drug paraphernalia during a raid by the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force, and Dunkirk police.  Walker later pled guilty to third-degree attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Back on February 26th,... Walker was arrested by the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force and Jamestown police during a raid on three counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, tampering with physical evidence.  That violated terms of his probation... and the county's Probation Department filed a violation of probation.  These charges were covered by the sentence on the Violation of Probation.

City man arrested by federal agents for allegedly posting threats against immigration officials...
A Jamestown man has been arrested for allegedly posting threats to federal immigration agents... and, others employed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.  U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced Tuesday that 43 year-old Matthew White was taken into custody on a charge of communicating interstate threats... which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.  Prosecutors say thist past April 30... Homeland Security Investigations in Buffalo learned that an “X” account, believed to be operated by White, was engaged in publicly posting the threats.  On June 4... they say White voluntarily spoke with investigators and allowed them to extract and copy the contents of his phone.  Investigators recovered a number of threatening posts on “X” including:  One from April 18 that stated "Kill them all, ICE is the new age gestapo, stop them.”  DiGiacomo says others were posted in late April.  White made an initial appearance in federal court... and, was released with conditions.

City Council approves 2025 CDBG and HOME Program Action Plan...
City lawmakers in Jamestown have approved the city's 2025 Community Development Block Grant... and, HOME Program Action Plan.  The City Council Monday night approved the proposal... which had no changes following an earlier public hearing on the $1.41-million in funding.  That funding was expected to take a bigger hit this year due to federal cuts.  However... the cut wasn't as big as expected.  City Development Director Crystal Surdyk hopes that bodes well for the program's future.  Surdyk says the new, 1.41-million dollar action plan remains in line with the current 5-year consolidated plan.