WJTN News Headlines for Thurs., July 9, 2026

Cassadaga man arrested in Stockton for harassment...         
A man from Cassadaga has been arrested for allegedly harassing another person in the town of Stockton.  Sheriff's deputies say they were called to an undisclosed address shortly after 7:30 a.m. Thursday... and, their investigation found that 51 year-old Joshua Fowler had threatened the other individual with physical harm -- or death -- and, he was arrested for second-degree aggravate harassment.  Fowler was arraigned and issued an appearance ticket for Stockton Town Court at a later date.


North county pair arrested for alleged harassment in town of Portland...
A man and woman from the north county are accused of physically harassing another person during an incident last week.  Sheriff's deputies say they were called to a town of Portland address just after 10 a.m. last Thursday for an alleged harassment.  Officers say their investigation showed that Jeffrey Kozlowski of Arkwright... and, Ashley Wakeley of Portland -- both 28 -- allegedly initiated unwanted physical contact with the other person.  Both were later found and arrested on one count each of second-degree harassment.  Both were arraigned and issued appearance tickets for Portland Town Court at a later date.


Schmidt confirms identity of dead Dunkirk shooting victim... 
Chautauqua County's top prosecutor has revealed the identity of the person who died in last month's homicide in the city of Dunkirk.  District Attorney Jason Schmidt confirms that the victim of the shooting at 110 South Gazelle St. was 25-year-old Delani Williams.  Williams was pronounced dead at Brooks Memorial Hospital after suffering a gunshot wound the evening of June 11.  No arrests have been made at this time... but, Schmidt says a person of interest has been developed in the case.


JPD seeking information on missing city teen...
Jamestown police are asking for the public's help in locating a missing teenage who is believed to be a runaway.  Officers say 16 year-old Tajiah McBride was reported missing on June 14... and, has been in contact with her family and a JPD Detective.  She is refusing to come home... and, is not believed to be in any danger.  Tajiah is described as a black female, 5'5" inches tall... 180 pounds with black hair.  If you have any information on her whereabouts... call JPD at 716-483-7537.  In addition... police say anyone knowingly harboring a missing juvenile is in violation of state law... and, is punishable by up to a year in jail and up to a $1,000 fine.


Langworthy announces $300,000 for upgrades to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital's School of Radiology is in draft appropriations bill...
Local Congressman Nick Langworthy says he's been able to secure $300,000 in a draft appropriations bill for UPMC Chautauqua Hospital's School of Radiology.  Langworthy was in Jamestown recently to tour the hospital... including the school itself.  The Buffalo-area Republican says the hospital asked his office for help in getting the money through the Community Projects Funding program... but, it has yet to be acted on by the full House and U.S. Senate.  Specifically... Langworthy says the funding will help to "modernize the radiology training lab and create clear career pathways in healthcare to help alleviate workforce shortages."  He calls it a "win-win" for the hospital and community... and, he was pleased to be able to get the funding "written into the budget."  The appropriations measure has not yet been approved by the House or Senate... but, Langworthy says it's in the "base text of that bill that will receive congressional action soon." 


City Council approves using $560,000 in non-federal money for engineering work on the stormwater channel maintenance project...
The Jamestown City Council has approved the next step in the $5.5-million, Chadakoin River Stormwater Channel Maintenance project.  Lawmakers recently okayed using $560,000 in non-federal, Marchicelli funding for the engineering phase of the project.  The project would involve clearing nine river channels of debris and sediment accumulated the past 50 years or so.  Acting Public Works Director Mark Roetzer says that's now been submitted to New York state..  Roetzer adds they have also put a request for proposals out for the work, and hope to hear back from interested firms in a couple of weeks... and, award a bid by the end of August.  He says the money comes from the Federal Highway Administration... and, is being administered by the state Department of Transportation.  The city is responsible for a 20% match on the total project cost... or about $1.1-million.  City Comptroller Ericka Thomas says what money is needed could be obtained through increased funds... or borrowing.  Thomas says that'll mainly be addressed as the city begins the budget process.  Roetzer says the city is hoping to get a waiver to at least use some of the $1.25-million obtained by Congressman Nick Langworthy for the project to offset the local share.  He says they're also looking at in-kind services as well.


Jamestown man arrested for violating stay-away order from woman he's found laying on sidewalk with...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly violating an order of protection after being found -- laying on the sidewalk -- with the woman who has the order against him.  Jamestown police say they were called to a downtown location about 11:30 p.m. Tuesday for a possible trespassing.  However... officers found two people laying on the sidewalk together... and, found that the man was 36-year-old Arthur Hubbard.  Police also found that the woman had the stay-away order against Hubbard... and, he was taken into custody on one count of first-degree criminal contempt.  He was jailed pending arraignment.


 

WJTN News Headlines for Wed., July 8, 2026

City teen arrested for allegedly threatening juvy with a knife...
A 19 year-old from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly threatening a juvenile with a knife during an incident on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say they were called to an undisclosed address just after 8:30 p.m. Tuesday on a report of a person with a weapon.  Officers determined that Kyle Pratt had threatened the juvenile with a knife... and located him a short distance away.  Police took Pratt into custody without incident for second-degree menacing... endangering the welfare of a child... and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  He was held pending arraignment.


North county pair arrested for physical harassment in Portland...
Two north county residents have been arrested for allegedly physically harassing another person during an incident last week.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to a town of Portland address just after 10 a.m. last Thursday for an alleged harassment.  Deputies say their investigation determined Jeffrey Kozlowski of Arkwright... and, Ashley Wakeley of Portland -- both 28 -- allegedly initiate unwanted physical contact with the other person.  Both were later found and arrested on one count each of second-degree harassment.  Both were arraigned and issued appearance tickets for Portland Town Court at a later date.


City man arrested for leaving 2-year-old child unsupervised...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for child endangerment after his 2-year-old was found wandering on a city street late Tuesday morning.  Jamestown police were called to an intersection on the eastside shortly before 11 a.m. on a report of the child being outside and unsupervised.  Officers say when they arrived... they learned that 33 year-old David Burkhart-the-third was responsible for the child.  Burkhart was later arrested for endangering the welfare of a child... and, was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.  The child was uninjured and placed in the temporary care of a family friend. 


North county pair arrested for alleged physical harassment...
Two north county residents have been arrested for allegedly physically harassing another person during an incident last week.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to a town of Portland address just after 10 a.m. last Thursday for an alleged harassment.  Deputies say their investigation determined Jeffrey Kozlowski of Arkwright... and, Ashley Wakeley of Portland -- both 28 -- allegedly initiate unwanted physical contact with the other person.  Both were later found and arrested on one count each of second-degree harassment.  Both were arraigned and issued appearance tickets for Portland Town Court at a later date.


County Legislature to meet at Jackson Center for this month's voting session...
It's the 25th anniversary for the Robert H. Jackson Center in Jamestown... and, the Chautauqua County Legislature will be holding it's July meeting there.  The legislature recently voted unanimously to hold the meeting at the center... which honors the legacy of Jackson... who was lead prosecutor at the Nuremburg War Crimes trials in Germany following World War-Two.  Jamestown Democrat Tom Nelson is pleased they'll be hosting... and, says the "Jackson Center is a great place to meet.  Ellicott Republican Lisa Vanstrom echoed those sentiments... and, she's looking forward to being part of the center's 25th anniversary.  In addition to the 25th anniversary of the Jackson Center... Vanstrom also noted that this is the 80th anniversary of the start of the Nuremburg War Crimes trials.  The legislature meeting will be held in two weeks... on Wed., July 22... beginning at 6:30 p.m.


United Way now accepting nominations for this year's Joseph H. Mason Award...
The United Way of Chautauqua County is seeking nominations for its 45th annual Joseph H. Mason Award.  The honor recognizes local union members -- active or retired -- who demonstrate exceptional commitment to community service.  Executive Director Amy Rohler is encouraging the public to consider nominating someone who is not only a union member, but also volunteers their time to help their community... including teachers, police or firemen, or a factory worker represented by a union.  Last year's Mason Award was awarded posthumously to the late Jim Bickhart of Dunkirk, marking the first time the award went to someone in the north county.  Rohler says the United Way must receive nomination forms by Sept. 1... and, their labor committee will decide on who is honored.  The award recipient will be honored at UWCHQ's annual Salute to Labor Dinner on Wed., Oct. 21 at Chautauqua Institution's Athenaeum Hotel.  Nomination forms are available to download online at the United Way website.  Completed forms can be mailed to 208 Pine St., Jamestown, New York 14701.


Jamestown man arrested after being found lying on sidewalk with woman who has "stay-away" order against him...
A city man has been arrested for allegedly violating an order of protection after being found -- laying on the sidewalk -- with the woman who has the order against him.  Jamestown police say they were called to a downtown location about 11:30 p.m. Tuesday for a possible trespassing.  However... officers found two people laying on the sidewalk together... and, found that the man was 36-year-old Arthur Hubbard.  Police also found that the woman had the stay-away order against Hubbard... and, he was taken into custody on one count of first-degree criminal contempt.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

WJTN News Headlines for Tues., July 7, 2026

Jamestown man arrested after child in his care is found wandering on city street...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for child endangerment after his 2-year-old was found wandering on a city street late Tuesday morning.  Jamestown police were called to an intersection on the eastside shortly before 11 a.m. on a report of the child being outside and unsupervised.  Officers say when they arrived... they learned that 33 year-old David Burkhart III was responsible for the child.  Burkhart was later arrested for endangering the welfare of a child... and, was taken to the city jail pending arraignment.  The child was uninjured and placed in the temporary care of a family friend. 


City woman arrested for violating order of protection on Greater Jamestown Riverwalk last weekend...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested on the city's Riverwalk for allegedly violating an order of protection... and, resisting police.  Officers were called to the scene shortly before 10:30 p.m. last Friday for an unrelated complaint.  On arrival... police spotted 25 year-old Samantha Lugo in violation of the active "stay-away" order.  Lugo fled on foot after seeing officers... but, she was quickly located nearby.  She's accused of resisting arrest after a brief struggle with officers before being taken into custody.  Lugo was charged with first-degree criminal contempt... and, resisting arrest.  She was jailed pending arraignment.


Man from Jamestown arrested for DWAI following well-being check on city's eastside...
A well-being check last Friday morning led to the arrest of a Jamestown man for driving while under the influence of drugs.  City police were called to the area of East Second Street shortly before 1 a.m. to check on the driver.  Officers say they found that 41 year-old Brandon Fogle was operating the vehicle with a revoked license... and, found that he was driving under the influence.  Police arrested Fogle for DWAI-Drugs... third-degree aggravated unlicensed operation... and, other vehicle and traffic infractions.  Fogle was released with appearance tickets for City Court.


Wendel pushes getting Dunkirk to the "front of the line" when it comes to NYS siting a new, nuclear power plant...
Chautauqua County's top-elected official is praising a recent forum on using Advanced Nuclear Power... and, wants to know how Dunkirk can "get to the front of the line."  That from County Executive P.J. Wendel... following last week's "Nuclear 101" forum held in the north county about the idea of retrofitting the former NRG Plant to general power using nuclear energy.  Wendel says he's convinced it's the way to go to produce more power for the state... and, do it responsibly.  He says the newer technologies reduce emissions significantly and cleaner power production is what's needed.  State Senator George Borrello hosted the forum... and, he admits that there is also plenty of controversy still surrounding nuclear energy.  Wendel says he was able to speak with the head of "Nuclear New York" and the other experts on hand afterwards... and, asked questions... namely how does the former NRG Power Plant become part of the equation.  He says he also wants to follow up with Governor Kathy Hochul to reiterate the county's interest.  Wendel made his comments for last weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Glenora Radio Network stations.   


Sherman man arrestee after alleged burglary at condemned home...
A man from Sherman has been arrested for allegeldy breaking into a condemned home in the town about a week before Independence Day.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to the unidentified location shortly before 8:30 a.m. last Friday on the burglary report.  Their investigation found that 62 year-old Kevin Cole was inside the condemned residence about a week prior -- on Sat., June 27 -- and he was not authorized to be there.  Cole was issued an appearance ticket for Sherman Town Court on one count of second-degree criminal trespass.


United Way brings in more than $8,500 in Community Baby Shower...
The final numbers have been tallied for the United Way of Chautauqua County's annual Community Baby Shower.  This year's drive generated more than $8,500 worth of new baby items.  Executive Director Amy Rohler says the United Way's community partners recently collected the items at its Dunkirk and Jamestown offices... and, includes everything from Catholic Charities, Rural Ministries and The Salvation Army.  Community Relations Coordinator Dan Siracuse spoke with some of those partner agencies who collected items at the Dunkirk office.  He says it's a good reminder of the work the United Way does because they are often in the background of those efforts.  The new baby items, which were collected at seven locations across Chautauqua County, will be distributed to local at-risk moms and their newborns.


Gillibrand renews call for banning "Memecoins" from being issued or sponsored by lawmakers...
New York's Junior U.S. Senator is renewing her call to bar all elected officials... and, their spouses... from issuing or sponsoring their own digital assests.  Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand's new push comes following new reporting on President Trump's personal financial disclosures -- which show that his single largest source of income in 2025... $636-million -- came from issuing a memecoin.  Under the proposal... which Gillibrand has championed alongside a group of colleagues... it would be illegal for President Trump to issue or sponsor any digital asset, including memecoins. The First Lady also issued her own memecoin and separately reported $6-million in income from NFTs and other digital collectibles.  Gillibrand calls it "a commonsense requirement that should get broad bipartisan support -- public officials and their spouses should not be issuing memecoins."

 

WJTN News Headlines for Mon., July 6, 2026

Incoming Sophmore at Forestville High School dies in drowning on Lake Erie last Friday...
A teenager from Forestville drowned in the waters of Lake Erie in the town of Evans this past Friday afternoon.  Evans Town Police say they were called to Lake Erie Beach Park at about 3:30 p.m. on a report that the 15-year-old -- now identified as Sky Hahn -- had gone underwater... and did not resurface. Officers say the Hahn was later found after being spotted by park lifeguards, who removed him from the water and immediately began life-saving measures until additional emergency personnel arrived.  The teen was then transported by ambulance to Mercy Hospital for emergency treatment.
----
In a message to district families Saturday afternoon... Forestville School Superintendent John O'Connor announced that Hahn was the drowning victim... and he was to have begun his sophomore year at the school this fall.  O'Connor says Hahn could not be saved despite the efforts of lifeguards and emergency personnel.  He added that the boy was "a valued member of the Forestville family, and his loss will be deeply felt by classmates, friends, faculty, staff, and all who knew him."  O'Connor says Forestville High School was open Monday for people who wished to come together.  Evans police also say counseling services are available through the Forestville and Lake Shore school districts for students, staff and families affected by this incident.


Three injured in July 4th boat collision on Chautauqua Lake...         
There were some scary moments on Chautauqua Lake on Saturday night as two boats collided in the Mayville area.  Sheriff's officers say three people among the eight on the two vessels were injured when the accident occured nearly Prendergast Boulevard shortly after 11 p.m.  Deputies say the three were taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital in Jamestown for treatment... while one was later flown to UPMC Hamot in Erie, Pa. for serious, but non-life threatening injuries.  The Sheriff's Office Navigation Division is investigating and were assisted by their road patrol... the county's WET Team, North Lake Fire Department... the Chautauqua Fire Department, and County Medic.


Fireworks go off last Saturday night... without a hitch... as threat of storms fails to materialize in Jamestown-area...
The rain held off -- for the most part -- across Chautauqua County Saturday night for the fireworks displays in Lakewood... and, elsewhere for July 4th with large crowds on hand for the nation's 250th birthday.  There was some rain in the area earlier Saturday... but, was pretty much gone by late day.  Fireworks and parades were held in Lakewood... Bemus Point... Dunkirk... Findley Lake and Mayville... to help celebrate America's birthday.


Kennedy woman arrested for menacing with a knife...       
A woman from Kennedy is accused of threatening another person with a knife during an incident in Kennedy Sunday afternoon.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to the scene about 2:30 p.m., and, determined that 34 year-old Ashley Harrison had displayed a knife to to person... putting them in fear of physical injury.  Harrison was soon after arrested for second-degree menacing... and she was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment.


Man arrested in Jamestown for stealing E-bike, and forcibly touching female JPD officer...
A 34 year-old man arrested for allegedly stealing an E-bike from a home on Jamestown's southside is also accused of groping a female officer.  City police were called to the address shortly before 4 p.m. Sunday for a reported larceny.  Officers determined that Tony Mosley had taken the bike... and, he was later found and taken into custody.  Police say was charged with petty larceny.  However... when officers were processing Mosley at the city jail... he allegedly touched the female officer's "intimate" areas... and, he was additionally charged with forcible touching.  He was jailed pending arraignment. 


New wall mural in downtown Dunkirk unveiled after several month delay...
A mural in downtown Dunkirk that's part of a countywide public art initiative has finally been completed after several months of delays.  However... it was in time for the July 4th Holiday.  City and county representatives were on hand last Thursday for a ribbon cutting and dedication of the mural at the Coburn Block on Central Avenue.  The mural -- entitled "Just Breaking the Surface" -- depicts a walleye "erupting" out of Lake Erie.  Special Projects Coordinator Rebecca Wurster with the county's Department of Planning and Development, read a statement by Connecticut-based artist Ryan Christenson, who created the mural.  He calls it an "energetic, visual experience."  It's the first mural in the Great Lakes area created by Christenson... who is known professionally as "ARCY."  He says it became apparent to him that Lake Erie is part of the community's identity, adding that the walleye, harbor and pier all tell a story about Dunkirk.  The mural is part of the Paint CHQ project.... and, was to be completed last summer, but travel issues with a prior artist caused the delay.


Man from Sherman recently arrested for late June burglary...
A man from Sherman has been arrested for allegeldy breaking into a condemned home in the town about a week before Independence Day.  Sheriff's officers say they were called to the unidentified location shortly before 8:30 a.m. last Friday on the burglary report.  Their investigation found that 62 year-old Kevin Cole was inside the condemned residence about a week prior -- on Sat., June 27 -- and he was not authorized to be there.  Cole was issued an appearance ticket for Sherman Town Court on one count of second-degree criminal trespass.


 

WJTN News Headlines for Fri., July 3, 2026

AAA of Western New York says 72.2-million Americans to be traveling this 4th of July weekend... celebrating nation's 250th birthday...
Just over 72-million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more during this long, Fourth of July holiday period.  That's up from last year... due largely to it being the nation's 250th birthday.  With that... pack your patience, and fluids for dealing with the heat.  The majority of us will be traveling by car.  That from AAA of Western New York Travel Advisory, Beth Steves... who says nearly 85% will be traveling that way.  She says that translates to about 61.4-million.  During a recent on-line press event hosted by AAA this week... Steves also noted that slightly more people will be flying this year.  She says be sure to bring the required ID... among others.  She adds making sure the airline has your contact information, and get text alerts from your airline... and, have the apps for your airline downloaded.  AAA Communications Director Elizabeth Carey says higher gas price aren't stopping people from driving to their destinations.  Prices have come down in recent days... but, in the immediate Jamestown-area... are still around $4.25 to $4.30 for regular, unleaded.


Parades, celebrations, fireworks to celebrate USA's 250th birthday on July 4th...
America's 250th birthday is being celebrated in grand style from Coast-to-Coast... and, there will be plenty of celebrating in Chautauqua County.  Several local communities will be hosting fireworks displays and day-long activities.  In the immediate Jamestown-area... County Legislator Jamie Gustafson of Lakewood says they'll be kicking things off at 9 a.m. at Hartley Park with the annual Firecracker 10K run/walk.  There'll also be vendors and music during the day before the fireworks at 10 p.m.  Not to be outdone... Dunkirk will have it's annual day of activities at their park and pier.  That from Legislator Bob Bankowski who says he and other legislators will be there, along with live music from three bands, and fireworks to cap off the day.  Mayville will also have a full-day of activities... starting with their annual parade tomorrow morning... beginning at 10 a.m.  That from Findley Lake Legislator Martin Proctor.... who says fireworks at Lakeside Park will begin shortly after dusk.  There will also be fireworks in the village of Bemus Point... and the traditional flare lighting on Chautauqua Lake will take place at 10 p.m. 


Chautauqua Lake in "great shape" for July 4th holiday period...
One of the best ways to "beat the heat" this week is to get out on the waters of Chautauqua Lake... and, this year may be the best in some time.  That from County Executive P.J. Wendel... who recently took a second tour to check lake conditions with Chautauqua Lake Association General Manager Heather Nolan-Caskey.  In particular... he says what a difference a year makes in places like Burtis Bay... which is showing no excess weeds... or matting of weeds.  Wendel says the later onset of hot weather may have helped curb the weed growth... but, add that the CLA getting out earlier to harvest weeds was a major factor.  He says that prevents many of the seeds from the plants from dropping and taking root at the bottom.  Wendel adds the north basin also looks good... though there is some algae growth in some place.  He says, though, that so far there have been no signficant reports of Harmful Algal Blooms in the water.  Wendel made his comments for this weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Glenora Radio Network stations.


Irving man accused of threatening another person with a deadly weapon...
A north county man has been arrested after allegedly threatening another person with a deadly weapon.  Sheriff's officers were called to a report of an altercation on Routes 5 and 20 in Irving just after Midnight Friday.  Deputies say their investigation found that 38 year-old Jamar Fountain of Irving intentionally put a person of reasonable fear of serious physical injury by displaying an unidentified deadly weapon.  Officers located Fountain a short time later... and, he was arrested for second-degree menacing... and, second-degree aggravated harassment.  He was taken to the County Jail pending Centralized Arraingment.


City man arrested for letting child in his car wander without supervision...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly leaving a young child in his care unsupervised for more than 20 minutes on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say they were called to the scene shortly before 11:30 a.m. Thursday on a report of a lost child.  Officers say they saw the child standing in front of a residence... and, the mother arrived at the scene about the same time.  The mother told police say she had left her son in the care of her boyfriend... 40 year-old Timothy Gonzalez.  However... officers say Gonzalez left the child... and, a pizza in the oven... unattended.   Police say they found Gonzalez a short time later... and, he was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant... along with charges of endangering the welfare of a child... and, second-degree criminal contempt.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

WJTN News Headlines for Thurs., July 2, 2026

Jamestown man arrested for child endangerment after young boy is found unsupervised...
A man from Jamestown has been arrested for allegedly leaving a young child left in his care unsupervised for more than 20 minutes on the city's eastside.  Jamestown police say they were called to the scene shortly before 11:30 a.m. Thursday on a report of a lost child.  Officers say they saw the child standing in front of a residence... and, the mother arrived at the scene about the same time.  The mother told police say she had left her son in the care of her boyfriend... 40 year-old Timothy Gonzalez.  However... officers say Gonzalez left the child... and, a pizza in the oven... unattended.   Police say they found Gonzalez a short time later... and, he was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant... along with charges of endangering the welfare of a child... and, second-degree criminal contempt.  He was jailed pending arraignment.


City man arrested for contempt following overnight fight call...
A man from Jamestown faces a contempt charge after being involved in an early morning fight in the presence of someone with an order of protection against him.  City police say they were called to a report of the fight near the intersection of Buffalo Street and Beechview Avenue shortly before 2:30 p.m.  Officers say they found that one of the subjects at the scene... 19 year-old Dimari Fields... was in the presence of a female that he had a "stay away" order of protection against him.  Fields was arrested without incident for second-degree criminal contempt... and, he was jailed pending arraignment.


Woman from Jamestown arrested on warrant after allegedly hiding in eastside apartment...
A city woman is accused of hiding to avoid capture by police seeking to arrest her on a bench warrant.  Jamestown police say they were called to an eastside address shortly after 10 p.m. Monday to speak with someone involved in a prior incident.  Officers say 48 year-old Ami Duvall opened the door... then quickly shut it closed.  Police say they knew of the City Court Warrant for Duvall's arrest... and, then checked the apartment... and, found Duvall hiding in a wall cutout.  After several commands to come out... she did so and was taken into custody on the warrant... and, for resisting arrest.  She was held pending arraignment.


Following second tour to see conditions on Chautauqua Lake... Wendel says it looks "great..."
One of the best ways to "beat the heat" this week is to get out on the waters of Chautauqua Lake... and, this year may be the best in some time.  That from County Executive P-J Wendel... who recently took a second tour to check lake conditions with Chautauqua Lake Association General Manager Heather Nolan-Caskey.  In particular... he says what a difference a year makes in places like Burtis Bay... which had a lot of matting of weeds, and problems with another invasive -- Elodea -- last year.  Wendel says the later onset of hot weather may have helped curb the weed growth... but, add that the CLA getting out earlier to harvest weeds was a major factor in holding down the weeds.  Wendel adds the north basin also looks good... though there is some algae growth in some places.  He made his comments for this weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Glenora Radio Network stations.


Borrello host's "Nuclear 101" forum at SUNY Fredonia...
A forum on the possibilities of using nuclear power in Chautauqua County was intended to educate -- not advocate.  That from State Senator George Borrello... who hosted a Local Leaders "Nuclear 101" program at the SUNY College at Fredonia.  Borrello invited local business and government leaders to Tuesday night's forum to get a better understanding of what "advanced nuclear" power could present for Dunkirk and the county.  The Sunset Bay Republican says a better understanding of it can help better inform people because it remains controversial.  Borrello's forum featured a panel of experts from academia, the nuclear industry, organized labor, finance and government.  One was Keith Schue with Nuclear New York... who says fossil fuel generation emits pollutants into the atmosphere.  He adds nuclear power is very different because it involves the smashing of atoms in a contained area.  Borrello says the forum was set up jointly with "Nuclear New York" to give local decision-makers factual information as New York evaluates potential locations for future advanced nuclear development. 


Jamestown woman arrested late last week for shoplifting...
A city woman has been arrested for allegedly stealing multiple beauty items from a store on Jamestown's southside.  City police were called to a reported larceny at the unidentified business about 9 p.m. last Friday... and found that 43 year-old Chelline Occhipinti concealed the items in her purse and passed all points of sale without paying.  She was found nearby the store, and taken into custody for petty larceny... and, held pending arraignment.


Westfield woman arrested for allowing child to wander unsupervised...
A woman from Westfield has been arrested for allegedly failing to supervise her young child... who was found walking late last month along Route 394.  Westfield Police say they were notified of the unsupervised child... who was found walking in front of Ramsey's Playhouse at 209 North Portage St. on June 21.  Their investigation led to the arrest of 35 year-old Heather Close for endangering the welfare of a child.  Officers say the child was returned home safely without injury.  Close was charged... and, issued an appearance ticket for Westfield Town Court at a later date.
 

WJTN News Headlines for Wed., July 1, 2026

City woman arrested on warrant after trying to hide inside eastside apartment...
A woman from Jamestown has been arrested after allegedly trying to hide from officers seeking to arrest her on a bench warrant.  City police say they were called to an eastside address shortly after 10 p.m. Monday to speak with someone involved in a prior incident.  Officers say 48 year-old Ami Duvall opened the door... then quickly shut it.  Police say they knew of the City Court Warrant for Duvall's arrest... and, then checked the apartment... and, found Duvall hiding in a wall cutout inside the apartment.  After several commands to come out... she did so and was taken into custody.  She ws taken to the city jail on one count of resisting arrest and on the warrant... pending arraignment.


Man arrested in Jamestown for DWI and gun possession...
A welfare check on a person on Jamestown's eastside has led to the arrest of a 20 year-old man for drunk driving... and, being in possession of an illegal handgun.  City police say they responded to the scene for a stopped car in the area of Bowen and Dover Streets about 7 a.m. Tuesday.  Officers say they found Noah Ingrao unresponsive behind the wheel of the vehicle... and, investigated.  Police determined that Ingrao had been driving drunk... and, they also found that he was in possession of the handgun.  Officers arrested Ingrao for DWI... driving with a blood alcohol content over .08, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, multiple traffic infractions.


AAA Western NY warns residents and motorists to be careful in the heat...
Our hot weather heading into the Fourth of July weekend is leading officials with AAA to warn people to be careful as the temperature rises to 90 and above.  A Heat Advisory is in effect for Chautauqua County now through Friday night... with heat indexes rising to the upper 90s to 100 or more.  AAA Western New York A Spokeswoman Elizabeth Carey also urges parents to be careful with your children... because -- on average -- about 37 children die inside vehicles after their parents or guardians forgot them inside.  She says the temperature inside those vehicles can climb very quickly.  Carey says a good tip is make sure to leave your keys... or pocket book in the back seat where your child is to make sure you get them out of the car. 
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With many residents planning to attend parades... cookouts... sporting events...  festivals, and fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday, county officials urge everyone to plan ahead and take steps to prevent heat-related illnesses.  It's important to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks and check on elderly neighbors. 
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If you don't have air conditioning during this period... Wendel says there are a number of "cooling stations" across the county.  They include: the Chautauqua Mall in Lakewood... Chautauqua Opportunities, Incorporated in both Jamestown and Dunkirk... and many libraries.  For a complete list... go on-line to HealthyCHQ.com.


Jersey Mike's opens first Chautauqua Co. location at Lakewood Village Center...
The ribbon has been cut on the newest chain-store eatery in the Lakewood area... with the Grand Opening of the first Jersey Mike's Subs in Chautauqua County at 279 East Fairount Ave. Wednesday morning.  The CHQ Chamber began a day of ribbon cuttings at the restaurant... but, Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Dan Heitzenrater was already enjoying the smell of fresh baked bread inside... even though it was 9 a.m.  Heitzenrater says it's ideally located in the plaza, which is across the street from the Chautauqua Mall.  Jersey Mike's General Manager Will Sullivan says they're excited to be opening the new location... and, says proceeds from their first five days will go to the Jamestown Family YMCA.  County Executive P-J Wendel was also on hand to welcome the new restaurant... noting that lives about a mile away, and will definately be a customer.  Representatives from the village... and others were also on hand.  
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As mentioned... the new Jersey's Mikes will be donating proceeds from their first five-days they're open to the Jamestown-area YMCA.  Director John Barber was on hand to thank Sullivan and his staff... and he says the folks at Jersey Mike's reached out to them to help.  Sullivan says they'll be employing 20 people at their Lakewood location... which is now open every day from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.


Town of Clymer cuts ribbon on new Playground...
Summer is here... and, many families will take their children to local parks and playgrounds to enjoy the weather.  In the town of Clymer... local kids have some new playground equipment to play on thanks to two organizations who have partnered to create new play opportunities for them.  Clymer Town Board member Todd Kolstee says they were told about the possibilities with KABOOM and the Ralph C. Wilson Foundation... with the foundation funding most of the project, along with the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation.  Previously... Kolstee says the community foundation helped them build the original playground at the Town-Community Park in 2024.  He says they were notified that the new project had been approved this past February.  Kolstee says a number of local businesses and organizations supported their efforts... along with Clymer Central School in designing the playground.  He says Clymer Hardware provided materials... and Eastern States and Lictis Keystone also provided support.  The ribbon was cut on the new playground this past Saturday.

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