Rushdie talks about stabbing at Chautauqua, and premonition of attack on 60 Minutes...
World-renowned and controversial author Salman Rushdie says he had a dream that in hindsight may have been a premonition of his horrific stabbing at Chautauqua Institution in August of 2022.  Rushdie sat down for his first televised interview since the attack that nearly cost him his life on CBS-TV's "60 Minutes" Sunday night.  In the dream two days prior... Rushdie says he was being attacked in a Roman Empire type amphitheater with a spear.  He was rolling on the floor trying to get away from the person before waking up in a start.  However... he decided to go to Chautauqua for the lecture and interview.  Rushdie says many places that you go to lecture have a "certain degree" of venue security... but -- "In this case, there wasn't any."  After 18 days in an Erie, Pa. hospital... and three weeks in rehab... Rushdie was released.  He says one of the surgeons that saved his life said to him "first you were really unlucky... and then you were really lucky."  Rushdie asked "what's the lucky part?"  The surgeon replyed, "well the lucky part is that the man who attacked you had no idea how to kill a man with a knife."  That attacker... 25 year-old Hadi Matar of New Jersey... remains in the Chautauqua County Jail pending the start of his attempted murder trial.

Accidential fire destroys house in Bemus Point...
Flames have destroyed a home in the village of Bemus Point.  Sheriff's Department fire dispatchers say Bemus Point fire crews were called to the scene at 40 Lincoln Rd. just after 6:30 p.m. Friday... and, mutual aid was called in to help truck water to the scene.  Bemus Point fire officials say Ashville brought a tanker.... and, deployed their pond for water dumps.  Crews also used a hydrant a short distance away to help with fill the tankers.  A second alarm was later put out for more tankers and interior firefighters.  However... a partial roof collapse forced them to revert to an exterior attack.  Officials add that high winds and heavy rain hampered their efforts.  County fire investigators determined the blaze began in a wall due to "compromised" electrical wiring.  No one was home at the time... and, no injuries were reported.

Two public hearings on tap for tonight in Lakewood...
A pair of public hearings are on the agenda for the Lakewood Village Board tonight.  One will be on the proposed 2024-25 budget proposal... and, the other on short-term rentals.  That from Mayor Randy Holcomb... who says new budget includes a slight tax rate increase to $8.17 per $1,000.  Tonight's meeting... which begins at 6:30 p.m., will be held at the Busti Town Hall.  Holcomb says he's satisfied with how the budget turned out... given the village's major loss of assessment in court for the Chautauqua Mall.  That came out of a recent court case brought by the mall's owner.  He says the village board will likely vote on their next scheduled meeting on Monday, April 22... as the budget is due by May 1.  The public hearing on the budget begins at 6:45 p.m., while the hearing on a local law regarding where short-term rentals will be allowed begins at 7 p.m. 

Wendel and Quattrone say Total Eclipse drew good, but "underwhelming" number of visitors to the county...
While it's not known at this time how many visitors Chautauqua County had for the total solar eclipse, two county officials believe the county fared well when it came to the tourism and safety aspects surrounding the celestial event.  Even though viewing conditions were less than ideal, with clouds covering much of the county during the time of totality, County Executive P.J. Wendel, who saw a lot of activity in the Jamestown area, says there were still hundreds of people at multiple eclipse gatherings... one at the Jamestown Airport, another at Jamestown Community College, and the third in Dunkirk along the Lake Erie shoreline.  Meanwhile... Sheriff Jim Quattrone believes the county was "overprepared and underwhelmed" for the event, and added that it will also serve to prepare the county for future emergencies, and major events.

Ellington's Bicentennial Celebration begins...
A brisk breeze blew across the Ellington town square Saturday morning, but there was a warm feeling close by at the fire department as the town’s 200th birthday celebration got underway.  At a breakfast hosted by the Town Picnic Association and library, County Executive P.J. Wendel talked about the significance of places like Ellington "that are really the fabric of not only our county, but, the state and this great country."  Wendel said Ellington has a couple of very unique characteristics.  It's a small and safe community that looks out for each other.  The breakfast was the first in a day long series of open houses, and other special events concluding with a chicken barbeque at the Ellington Rod & Gun Club.

Ellington Fire Dept. takes advantage of Bicentennial kick-off to host recruitment event...
Last Saturday’s kick-off of the Ellington Bicentennial celebration coincided with the annual ‘Recruit NY’ effort to get new firefighters.  Ellington Fire Department Chief, Steve Rexford, was hoping a mid-day open house at the fire hall might yield some candidates.  He says they've gotten a few the past couple of years... but adds it's still a struggle.  Rexford’s had two stints as fire chief in Ellington, totaling 25 years.  He’s more optimistic about recruitment now than he was even a few years ago.  There are incentives that help... including state financial incentives for completing necessary training.
 

Jouthern Tier Regional Drug Task Forces executed search warrants during the traffic stop andamestown husband and wife arrested during major drug bust...
A husband and wife have been arrested on major drug possession charges following a raid... and, traffic stop... on the city's westside today.  City police say members of the JPD Metro, and S the home at 38 Whitley Ave., about 9:30 a.m.  Jamestown police say the JPD SWAT Team assisted in the raid.  Police say they arrested 51 year-old Anabell, and 48 year-old Santos Santiago during the traffic stop... and, two children were located inside the home. Once the home was secured... detectives searched and found nearly 110-grams of fentanyl... 11.3 grams of crack cocaine, digital scales for weighing the drugs, packaging materials... and, more than $30,000 in cash... believed to be profits from drug sales.  They also found two handguns – one of which was reported stolen.  The Santiagos were taken to the city jail... with Santos being charged with one count of second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... two counts of third-degree possession of drugs... two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... two counts of criminal possession of a firearm, and one count of fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.  Anabell was found in possession of a switchblade knife... and, a quantity of oxycodone pills.  She faces similar drug charges... along with two counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... and, two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon... among others.  Both were jailed pending arraignment. 

Fredonia water customers urged to conserve water... 
Customers of the village of Fredonia's water system are being asked to conserve water as scheduled maintenance will take place at the water treatment plant next Monday.  The Chautauqua County Department of Health issued the order... which is to officially begin at Midnight Saturday... and, will be in place until further notice.  Officials are urging users to prepare now for a boil water order because they'll be getting water from the plant’s water storage tank.  If the storage tank is depleted... water will have to come directly from the water treatment plant.  The required maintenance will result in high turbidity at the water treatment plant so water leaving the plant will not be adequately disinfected.  If this occurs, customers will be notified and ordered to boil water so that it is safe to consume. 

State Senate approved new budget extension; Assembly to follow suit...
New York's state budget is poised for another delay as backroom negotiations over a sweeping proposal to drive new housing construction continues to hold up the spending plan.  The State Senate Thursday approved a stopgap bill that will keep government funded, and extend the budget deadline until Apr. 15.  The Assembly is expected to approve the measure this (Friday) afternoon... sending it to Governor Kathy Hochul for her signature.  The budget has been delayed a handful of times this year as Hochul and the Democratic leaders of the Legislature work through dozens of competing demands in private talks.  Housing has emerged as the major stumbling block in budget negotiations, with top officials trying to balance the demands of developers, tenants and labor to reach an agreement that will lead to more housing units.  A deal is expected to include a tax break for developers to spur construction, a wage agreement for laborers and protections for tenants against some rent increases and evictions, among other things, though the specifics remain unclear. 

Whitaker says late state budget should have no impact on final amount of state aid JPS will receive...
The now 11 day late state budget should have little or no impact on the Jamestown Public School District's 2024-25 spending plan... which goes up for a public vote next month.  That from School Superintendent Kevin Whitaker... who says the just over $104-million budget still includes no tax levy increase.  Whitaker says... even under Governor Hochul's proposal... the district was still looking at a Foundation Aid increase of $2.3-million.  He says they aren't expecting any less money, either, because the Senate and Assembly measures include more than that.  JPS Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations, Brittnay Spry, recently told school board members that overall revenues would be increasing by $2.9-million dollars.  A capital outlay is planned that includes replacing two lifts at the bus garage... and, five new buses will also be purchased -- one of which will be a "zero emission vehicle.  The final budget, and school board election will be held on Tues., May 21.  

City man receives 3 1/2 years in state prison on gun possession charge...
A Jamestown man will spend the next 3-and-a-half years in state prison after being sentenced in county court this week for second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says 25 year-old Cody Boisvert was sentenced to the prison term... and, five-years post-release supervision by County Court Judge David Foley.  In July of 2023... Schmidt says Jamestown police officers conducted a "well being" check in the area of Warner Place and Barrett Avenue... and, saw Boisvert in illegal possession of a loaded, 9-mm hand-gun.  The defendant pled guilty to the charge in December of 2023.  Schmidt adds that Boisvert was also sentenced to an indeterminate state prison term of 1 to 3 years after being convicted of fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.  He says the sentences will be served concurrently.  In August of last year... State Police were contacted about stolen firearms and they found that Boisvert was in possession of them... and, he pled guilty to the charge last December.

Homeless woman arrested second time for allegedly leading police on car chase...
A homeless woman faces several charges after allegedly leading police on two car chases within the past month... one in Chautauqua County... the other in Pennsylvania.  Sheriff's deputies say they initially tried to stop a speeding vehicle on Route 380 shortly before 2 a.m. on Monday, Mar. 18.  However... the car sped off... and, officers slowed their pursuit due to weather conditions.  The pursuit went into the towns of Ellery and Stockton.  A short time later... they say the car went into a ditch and rolled over.  The operator -- later identified as 24 year-old Savannah Dorsey-Carter -- fled the scene.  The Sheriff's K-9 team was called out to assist... and, police were able to track Dorsey-Carter about two miles through the woods.  Officers were led to a cabin in the town of Ellery where they found her... and, she was arrested on charges including: two counts of speeding in a 55 mph zone... reckless driver... and others.  
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Then... shortly after 3:30 a.m. this past Tuesday... officers were called to help Pennsylvania law enforcement in a car chase that was heading to New York.  Deputies say the pursuit went into the town of Mina before ending at a residence where the driver fled into the woods.  Neighbors were able to locate the operator... and, detain her until police arrived.  That driver also turned out to be Dorsey-Carter... and, she was arrested on multiple warrants.  She was taken to a hospital for treatment before being taken to the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office.  She faces additional charges... including: second-degree burglary... fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, unlawfully fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle.

Pair of men arrested in town of Carroll on drug-related charges following traffic stop...
Two people have been arrested on multiple drug-related charges following a traffic stop late Monday night in the town of Carroll.  Sheriff's Department narcotics investigators say they saw 38 year-old Brook Patterson of Jamestown driving a car with a suspended license shortly before Midnight on Main Street in Frewsburg.  Deputies say once the vehicle was stopped... the passenger -- 39 year-old Brian Jones of Frewsburg -- got out... and, allegedly threw a glass smoking pipe containing cocaine residue.  Deputies say both men were detained... and, a search of the pair, and the vehicle found that Patterson was in possession of a quantity of cocaine... packaging materials... and, digital scales.  Jones was arrested and charged with felony tampering with physical evidence.  Patterson was arrested and charged with third-and fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree aggravated unlicensed operation.  Jones was released with an appearance ticket after processing, while Patterson was remanded to the County pending arraignment.  If you have any information on drug or other criminal activity... contact the Sheriff's Office Narcotics Investigators tip line at 800-344-8702... or 664-2420.  You can also call the Jamestown Police Department Tip line at 716-483-8477.... or 483-8477.

Goodell says state lawmakers approve another budget extension until Friday...
There's been another deadline extension approved by the New York state legislature to allow more time to complete negotiations on a new 2024-25 spending plan.  That from local State Assemblyman Andy Goodell... who says lawmakers aren't in session Tuesday and Wednesday due to a Muslim holiday.  Goodell says the extension was approved Monday... and, legislators will meet again Friday.  He says majority Democrats say they are "making progress."  However... Goodell adds that, other than the debt service bill, no other bills have been printed.  The Jamestown-area Republican says a group of young, far-left Democrats from New York City are holding up the more than $240-billion budget -- within their own caucus.  However... Goodell says he believes the spending plan will be negotiated once reality sets in because lawmakers don't get paid if there's no budget after the legal deadline of Apr. 1.  He says after missing 2 or 3 paychecks... those far left legislators are more inclined to become more reasonable.  Goodell says the big issues remain the same... with housing and education leading the way.  He says a proposal to raise business taxes is also helping to stall negotiations. 

Wendel highlights County Execs. trip to southern border...
County leaders from across the nation recently gathered in El Paso, Texas to get a first-hand look at the migrant crisis... and, why more and more communities are being impacted.  Among those who were part of the National Association of Counties trip to the border was Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel.  Wendel says our county is unique because undocumented migrants are coming here by choice -- they were not sent by officials in New York City.  He says that basically -- Chautauqua County is an "end point" for those migrants... and, once they enter the country, they are vetted... their tattoos are photographed and put into a data base... and inmunizations are given -- if needed.  Wendel adds that a check of the immigration records in El Paso showed some of the people who came here have now gone back to their country-of-origin.  Others... says Wendel... have just recently come here.  He made his comments for last weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

Two arrested in town of Carroll on drug-related charges following traffic stop...
Two people have been arrested on multiple drug-related charges following a traffic stop late last night in the town of Carroll.  Sheriff's Department narcotics investigators say they saw 38 year-old Brook Patterson of Jamestown driving a car with a suspended license shortly before Midnight on Main Street in Frewsburg.  Deputies say once the vehicle was stopped... the passenger -- 39 year-old Brian Jones of Frewsburg -- got out... and, allegedly threw a glass smoking pipe containing cocaine residue.  Deputies say both men were detained... and, a search of the pair, and the vehicle found that Patterson was in possession of a quantity of cocaine... packaging materials... and, digital scales.  Jones was arrested and charged with felony tampering with physical evidence.  Patterson was arrested and charged with third-and fifth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance...  and, second-degree aggravated unlicensed operation.  Jones was released with an appearance ticket... while Patterson was sent to the county jail pending arraignment.  

Region gets at least quick glimpses of Total Solar Eclipse...
No matter where you were... or how much cloud cover there was... you got to at least "experience" Monday's Total Solar Eclipse in Jamestown and Chautauqua County.  As "totality" began... you could hear birds chipping like it was dusk... then all the street lights came on.  In most places... the clouds were able to break just enough for everyone to get a look at the moon covering the sun.  There were several official... and, "unofficial" watch partieis going on... one of the official ones was at the Fenton History Center.  Executive Director Jane Wahlberg has been with the Fenton about a year... but, says they really wanted to do this.  Wahlberg says "it's history."  Local residents... and, out-of-towners were among those gathering as the "partial eclipse" began shortly after 2 p.m.  Among the people on hand at the Fenton was Schenectady's Meg Urbanski... who was joined by her sister to see the Lucy-Desi Museum and the National Comedy Center... but, also wanted to see the eclipse.  She says they're both excited to see the eclipse.  Also among the out-of-towners at the Fenton History Center were people from New York City.... Georgia... California... and, Pennsylvania.  There were also eclipse viewing parties at the County Airport near Jamestown... Bemus Point... and, in Dunkirk along the Lake Erie shoreline.

Eclipse experienced by students at SUNY JCC...
Prior to ‘totality’ on Monday, the Jamestown campus of Jamestown Community College was alive with activity.  The college’s Vice-President of Student Affairs, Dr. Kirk Young, was there to take it all in... and, says they had "quite a good gathering" of students, faculity, staff and community members.  One of the events was an eclipse-related scavenger hunt.  Southwestern Central School Senior, Sam Kautzman, took part in it and says they have a number of stands -- or booths -- each of which had instructions for people to follow.  Peter Samuelson was interested in the science experiments done during totality… in particular the way both humans and animals reacted to total darkness.  In one way there was NOT complete darkness on the JCC campus.  Staff and volunteers all wore fluorescent green tee-shirts that said ‘JCC -- Totally Worth It -- 04-08-24.’

Dunkirk Eclipse Fest a success...
A once-in-a-lifetime event shrouded Chautauqua County in darkness for more than three minutes Monday afternoon... and, a DJ spun "eclipse-themed" tunes along the Dunkirk waterfront.  That as the 'totality' phase of the solar eclipse concluded at the city's Eclipse Fest.  Skies were cloudy in Dunkirk before totality began at 3:18 p.m., with peeks of sun breaking out not too long after that phase ended.  Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowiasz was amazed by the experience... mainly seeing how dark it became, and being able to see some of the total eclipse near the end when the clouds broke.  The temperature at the Dunkirk Airport reached a high of 64 at the beginning of the eclipse and dropped to 55 during the totality phase.  As for Eclipse Fest itself... Mayor Wdowiasz said there was a great turnout for the event at the Clarion Hotel and Steelbound Brewery. 

City man arrested on warrants, and drug possession...
A Jamestown man has been arrested after being found to have outstanding arrest warrants... and, being in possession of narcotic drugs.  City police say officers spotted 21 year-old Branden Ryan at a location on the city's southside late last Saturday afternoon... and, knew there were warrants for his arrest.  Police say Ryan was taken into custody and searched... and, found in possession of a small amount of methamphetamine.  He was taken to the city jail pending arraignment on his outstanding warrants... and, one count of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.

Cassadaga man with 28 drivers license suspensions arrested for operating ATV on a public roadway...
A Cassadaga man whose license has been suspended nearly 30 times has been arrested for allegedly driving an all-terrain vehicle on Route 60 in the town of Stockton.  Sheriff's deputies say they stopped the ATV on the pubic roadway late last Saturday afternoon near Cassadaga.  Officers say a DMV License check on 25 year-old Riley Priest showed that his license had 28 suspensions on it.  Priest was charged with unlawful operaton of an ATV on a highway... and, issued traffic tickets for Stockton Town Court at a later date.

Final eclipse viewing tips being given by NASA Partnered Eclipse Ambassaor...
Proper use of ‘eclipse glasses’ is key to a full and safe experience of the total solar eclipse.  Tom Traub is the Vice-President of the Martz-Kohl Observatory and a ‘Nasa Partnered Eclipse Ambassador.’  He recommends getting the glasses on early unless there is "99.99% total coverage.  When the right moment of "totality" comes, it is safe to take them off.  However... once the moon begins moving away... look away and get the eclipse glasses back on.  Traub call those the "most vulnerable moments" for the human eye come as ‘totality’ begins to recede.  Totality is expected around 3:18-3:20 P.M. this afternoon in the Jamestown area.  The eclipse will be visible in the southwest sky at a 46 degree angle.  Glasses with the ISO rating 12312-2 have been made widely available through Chautauqua County, the Chamber of Commerce, and many businesses… including Media One Radio.

Wendel: county is ready for influx of people for total eclipse...
The first county to experience "full totality" during this afternoon's total Solar Eclipse is Chautauqua County... and the county's top-elected leader says "we're ready."  County Executive P.J. Wendel urges people to make sure you have your special eclipse glasses for the event... which is slated to begin about 3:18 p.m., and, last about 4 minutes.  Just in case... Wendel says the county's Emergency Services Department is on alert.  With that... he says enjoy this major celestrial event.  Wendel says most local fire departments will also be at the ready for any emegency situations that may arise.  He says there's also a tourism angle to the eclipse... adding you'd be hard pressed to find a hotel room in the region.  In fact... he's heard that 80% to 90% of the hotel rooms in city's that'll have the "path of totality" are completely booked. 

House fire in Gerry hurts one person...         
One person had to be treated for injuries following a house fire on Route 430 in the town of Gerry late Saturday night.  Sheriff's Department dispatchers say Gerry firefighters were called to the scene at 4825 Route 380 just after 11:30 p.m.  Mutual aid was called in from several other departments.  The county's Fire Investigation Team was called in... and, determined the blaze started in the kitchen area.  However... investigators says the cause is undetermined... pending further investigation.  They say the single occupant was taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital for treatment.

Several departments respond to Sugar Grove, Pa. area barn fire...
An overnight blaze in Warren County, Pennsylvania has heavily damaged a barn in the Sugar Grove area.  Warren County fire dispatch confirms that Sugar Grove firefighters were called to the scene at 1951 Hazeltine Hollow Road about 11:20 p.m. Sunday.    Dispatchers say several local companies... including some from Chautauqua County... provided mutual aid.  There have been no reports of injuries.  Fire crews were at the scene until about 9 a.m. Monday.

Jamestown man arrested for alleged assault with full can of beer...
A city man is accused of assaulting another person by throwing a full beer can at them during a domestic incident last Saturday night on Jamestown's sourthside.  City police were called to the location shortly before 9 p.m. on a report of an unwanted person.  Officers say the victim requested that 24 year-old Patrick Kinney be removed from the house... after being hit by the can... and, getting hurt.  Police took Kinney into custody on one count of second-degree assault.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Mayor recognizes JHS NYS Champions...
Five student-athletes from Jamestown High School have received commendations from Mayor Kim Ecklund for their terrific performance during recent New York state championships.  Ecklund presented the commendations during the City Council's recent work session... and first higlighted the JHS Boy's 200-meter relay swim team members... which include: Ian McCleary... Connor Dean... and Grady and Miles Moore.  Ecklund says the relay team has "elevated Jamestown's reputation to unprecidented heights."  She says it was also a testimony to their commradery... and resiliency.  Ecklund also praised Varsity Bowler Abbie Derby... who was part of the Section 6 Championship Team that competed in Syracuse... and, won the state title for the second-year in a row.  Derby anchored the JHS Girls Bowling Team that won the past season's county championships... and, has signed a letter of intent to bowl next Fall in Division-1 at Niagara University. 

Goodell reports only one budget bill approved by Midnight Thursday deadlines...
Only one of the 10 budget bills were approved by the New York State Legislature as the extended deadline of Apr. 4 came and went at Midnight.  That from local State Assemblyman Andy Goodell in a phone message to Media One News.  He says the lone bill adopted has been the $13.5-billion debt service measure... $10.5-billion of which is interest payments.  Goodell says the budget process has been going "very slowly... " with no firm time for concluding work on the more than 240-billion dollar woth of measures approved by the Assembly and Senate.  Gov. Kathy Hochul's proposal of $233-billlion was presented in January.  The two legislative chambers both approved one-house bills a couple of weeks ago totaling between $245-billiion and $246-billion each.

Former County Legislature Chair Gould passes away; remembered as dedicated public servant...
A former, long-time member... and, chairman of the Chautauqua County Legislature... has passed away at the age of 82.  County Executive P.J. Wendel says its "with heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we mourn the loss of former, longtime Chautauqua County Legislator Frank "Jay" Gould, whose enduring legacy of dedicated public service leaves an indelible mark on our community."  He was first elected to the legislature in 1999... and represented District 17 which included parts of the towns of Clymer, Harmony and Busti... and, the village of Panama.  During his tenure... Gould was elected as Legislature Chairman from 2012 to 2016. He was a member of various committees, including Human Services, Public Facilities, and Audit & Control.  He served until 2022.  In a printed statement... Executive Wendel said -- "Jay Gould's passing leaves a profound void in our hearts and in the fabric of Chautauqua County.  His dedication to public service, unwavering integrity, and steadfast commitment to our community set an exemplary standard for us all.  As a farmer himself, Jay understood the vital importance of agriculture to our county's economy and way of life."

Mayville man arrested for allegedly having multiple stolen long guns in Sherman home...
A man from Mayville has been arrested for allegedly being found in possession of multiple stolen long-guns following a parole check on a town of Sherman home.  Sheriff's deputies say they had obtained information that 20 year-old Marcus Detweiler was in possession of four rifles and one shotgun... and, obtained a search warrant for the property at 3969 Route 76 last Thursday.  A search of the property led to the seizure of the five guns.  All of them are believed to have been stolen... and, officers are looking for the rightful owners.  Detweiler was charged with five counts of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment.  The Sheriff's Office asks anyone who believes the following guns are theirs or someone they know... contact their office at the narcotic tips line... or directly to the sheriff's office.  The guns include: a Winchester model 94-22M XTR .22-caliber Magnum rifle... a Savage Axis 308... a Winchester .22-caliber Model 190 rifle... a 12-gauge Eclipse Leader double barrel shotgun... and, an Ithaca, M-49 .22 cal Rifle.  The Narcotics Investigators Tip line is 800-344-8702 or 664-2420.

Gillibrand announces legislation to codify SAVE Act...
New York's junior U-S Senator has announced she is sponsoring legislation that would codify the Biden Adminstration's income-driven repayment plan for student loan debt.  Democrat Kirsten Gillibrand says the Codifying the "Savings on A Valuable Education Plan" Act would protect the program from being terminated by future presidential administrations.  Gillibrand says the SAVE Plan currently has more than 7.7-million federal student loan borrowers enrolled, and New Yorkers have had over $63-million forgiven under the plan.  She adds that a total of 375,000 New Yorkers have been able to take advantage of the program.  She adds lawmakers are looking at other measures as well... including one that's tied to public service -- after college.  Gillibrand says the cost for higher education at a public college or university had doubled since 1970.  She says the SAVE Plan was introduced last August... and, has helped millions of borrowers lower their monthly payments.  For more information... go on-line to StudentAid.Gov/SAVE.

Removal of portion of I-90 overpass bridge in Ripley area to force Friday to Saturday am traffic detour off Thruway eastbound...
The New York State Thruway Authority has announced that the eastbound lanes of Interstate 90 from Exit 60 in Westfield to Exit 59 at Dunkirk-Fredonia will be temporarily shut down to traffic beginning at 5 p.m. Friday.  Authority officials say it's to allow crews to safely remove a severely damaged portion of the North Road overpass over the Thruway at milepost 473 -- near Shortman Rd.  They say the overpass has been struck at least three times by overheight trucks since the beginning of the year.  Officials add the overpass is currently closed to vehicle traffic.  Following multiple inspections this week... Thruway and consulting engineers determined that a damaged girder should be removed and other work completed to stabilize the overpass.  Beginning at 5 p.m. Friday... the authority says all eastbound traffic on I-90 will be diverted off at Exit 60... and, you should follow the the "D" Detour route which will take traffic to Route 394 east... to Route 20 east... and, to Route 60 north, and reentering the Thruway at Exit 59.  The detour will be about 18 miles.  The closure is expected to be in place until 7 or 8 a.m. Saturday.

Mayville man arrested in Sherman after being found in possession of stolen long-guns...
A Mayville man is accused of being in possession of multiple stolen long-guns following a parole check on a Route 76 home in the town of Sherman.  Sheriff's officers say they had obtained information that 20 year-old Marcus Detweiler was in possession of four rifles and one shotgun... and, obtained a search warrant for the property at 3969 Route 76 last Thursday.  A search of the property led to the seizure of the five guns.  All guns are believed to be stolen... and, deputies are looking for the rightful owners.  Detweiler was charged with five counts of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, was taken to the county jail pending centralized arraignment.  The Sheriff's Office asks anyone who believes the following guns are theirs or someone they know... contact their office at the narcotic tips line... or directly to the sheriff's office.  The guns include: a Winchester model 9422M XTR .22-Magnum rifle... a Savage Axis 308... a Winchester .22 cal Model 190 rifle... a 12-gauge Eclipse Leader double-barrel shotgun... and, an Ithaca M-49 .22 cal Rifle.  The Narcotics Investigators Tip line is 800-344-8702 or 664-2420.

It's Pres. Primary Day in NYS and Chautauqua County...
The polls are open until 9 p.m. tonight across New York state... and Chautauqua County... for the Republican and Democratic Presidential primaries.  That from County Elections Commissioner Brian Abram... who says polls opened at 6 a.m., two days after the last day of early voting.  As for today... Abram says they are expecting a low turn-out... as both Republican Donald Trump... and, Demcratic incumbant Joe Biden have already clinched their nominations.  Abram says... if you have your yellow Board of Elections card that will help speed you along.  New York state has "closed primaries..." which means you must be a registered Republican to vote in the GOP Primary... and a registered Democrat to vote in those primaries.  Again... polls are open until 9 p.m., and, Abram says all 48 regular polling locations will be open for voters to take part.

Out-of-Town pair arrested in Jamestown as fugitives following traffic stop...     
Two out-of-town men have been arrested following a traffic stop in downtown Jamestown Monday for falsely identifying themselves... and, being fugitives from justice.  City police say they stopped a vehicle in the area of Foote Avenue and Harrison Street shortly before 8:30 a.m. for having illegally tinted car windows.  Officers say after getting the fake names... they determined that the driver was 28 year-old Damani Riley of Willingboro, New Jersey... and, his passenger was 27 year-old Roger Herivaux of Brooklyn, NY.  Police further found that Herivaux was wanted in Massachusetts for aggravated assault on a police officer... while Riley was sought by U.S. Marshalls for violating his probation.  Both are also wanted in connection with fraud cases.  Officers also seized just over 7,300 in cash.  Both were jailed pending arraignment... and, extradiction.

Final preparations being put in place for next Monday's Total Solar Eclipse in Chautauqua County...
There's less than a week to go for the Total Solar Eclipse... and, final preparations are underway to deal with what's expected to be a major influx of people -- and motor vehicles -- to Chautauqua County.  That from County Executive P.J. Wendel and other local officials during a recent press conference about the eclipse.  Wendel says they welcome all the visitors... but, adds their biggest concern next weekend -- and Monday -- is traffic.  He says that's especially the case for the State Thruway, and Interstate 86, among others.  Emergency Services Director Noel Guttman says they've been planning for several months... and, have spoken with officials in other parts of the country that have experienced this before.  As for the event itself... Wendel says the time period between Noon and 5 p.m. next Monday should be considered a larger version of Lakewood on the Fourth of July... with the amount of traffic before and after the fireworks.  Guttman adds that his department has also been working with local hospitals to have them reschedule elective surgeries away from next Monday.  Wendel says Chautauqua County received a later number of eclipse glasses than were originally ordered... so there are plenty to go around.

Jamestown man arrested following domestic incident...
A city man is accused of choking a woman... taking a phone and stealing property during a domestic incident last weekend on Jamestown's eastside.  City police were called to the location about 8:20 p.m. last Saturday, and, following an investigation... they arrested 26 year-old Jose Lopez.  Officers say they learned that Lopez got physical during a domestic altercation... and, allegedly choked the victim... in front of several children.  He was arrested for criminal obstruction of breathing... fourth-degree grand larceny and criminal mischief... and, five counts of endangering the welfare of a child.

Fugitive from Warren Co, Pa. arrested in Jamestown...
A Jamestown man wanted in Warren County, Pennsylvania on drug-related charges has been arrested in the city as a fugitive from justice.  Jamesotwn police say they stopped a car... driven by 30 year-old Joshua Reynolds... for having no inspection.  Officers say a background check showed that Reynolds was sought in Warren County for criminal possession of a controlled substance.  They add that he was taken into custody as a fugitive from justice... and, for driving an uninspected Motor Vehicle.

Weekend house fire in Ellington blamed on electrical issue...
An electrical issue inside an outlet has been listed as the cause of a late morning house fire last Saturday in the town of Ellington.  Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office dispatchers say Ellington firefighters were called to the scene at 4110 Hopkins Rd. about 10 a.m. for a "working structure fire."  A second-alarm was later called out.  Mutual aid was called in from Kennedy... Gerry... Falconer... Conewango... Rescue 7... and, the county's FAST Team.  County fire officials say two people who were inside the home at the time were taken to the hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation.

Two treated for smoke inhalation following house fire in Forestville...
An early morning fire yesterday in the town of Hanover damaged a home on Route 39.  Sheriff's Department dispatchers say Forestville fire crews were called to the scene shortly before 6 a.m.  Not long after... the county's fire investigation team was called in to look for the cause... and, found it began inside a dishwasher and spread throughout the residence.  Officials say no injuries were reported.

Hundreds attend city of Jamestown's 76th Easter Egg Hunt...
Hundreds of young people gathered near the soccer fields at Allen Park in Jamestown Saturday morning for the city’s 76th annual Easter Egg Hunt.  City Parks Manager Dan Stone whipped up the anticipation… and counted down the start in a most interesting way -- going from 1 to 3 quickly.  The throngs of kids poured across the fields picking up candy and eggs.  A few minutes later, 8-year-old Michael spoke to our Dennis Webster... who asked if he had fun.  Michael says he had a lot of fun finding all the candy he did.  In addition... 10-year-old Anjolina was particularly successful... finding a prize egg with a $50 Walmart gift card.  Mayor Kim Ecklund was there, and said the city is working to be ‘all inclusive’ with the Easter Egg Hunt, with a new section for the developmentally disabled, and those on the autism spectrum.  The mayor and Dan Stone expressed appreciation to all the sponsors and volunteers who made the Easter Egg Hunt possible.

Christ First UMC hosts 5th annual Easter Egg Hunt...
Another major Easter Egg Hunt occurs at Christ First United Methodist Church on Lakeview Avenue.  It started in 2019.  One of the Directors of Children and Youth Ministry, Danika Olson, says the 1,800 eggs ‘hidden’ in their side yard disappear more quickly every time.  This year... she says... they were done in about six-minutes.  The hunt is just the beginning at Christ First.  The other Director of Children and Youth Ministry, Kenzie Mason, says kids and families then go inside to collect their prizes and do much more... including a number of activities.  Those include crafts, a sensory table, snack making, egg racing… and more.  Danika Olson added, the effort fulfills Christ First’s mission as a community and neighborhood church.

Dunkirk Common Councilman-at-Large explains resolution to expand north county city's credit line...
The Dunkirk Common Council has approved a resolution supporting a bill in the State Assembly that would expand the city's credit line to as high as $18.5-million to help address looming financial issues in the city.  The measure, supporting the city of Dunkirk Fiscal Recovery Act, was passed unanimously during a recent special meeting of the Council.  Councilman at Large Nick Weiser says it's the first step towards addressing debt the city faces.  The past two months... Weiser says they've determined there is a "significant amount of debt" the city has accumulated.  Weiser explains that the resolution acknowledges the city needs help from lawmakers in Albany to manage the situation.  The bill, which was introduced last week by State Assemblyman Andrew Goodell would, among other things, authorize the city to issue bonds up to $18.5 million, require the city to prepare quarterly budget reports and a three-year financial plan to be submitted to the State Comptroller's Office.  It would also require the city to establish a special debt service fund with the Comptroller's Office in order to pay city debt service due or becoming due in subsequent fiscal years.

Bobseine pledges to protect Lakeview and Collins Correctional facilities -- if elected to Assembly...
Democratic State Assembly candidate Michael Bobseine says he's pledging to protect the Lakeview and Collins Correctional facilities if he's elected.  In a printed statement...Bobseine -- a native of Fredonia -- says Governor Kathy Hochul's 2024-25 budget plans to close another five correctional facilities in the coming fiscal year.  That's in addition to several that have already been closed.  If elected... Bobseine feels that he'll be in a position with the Democratic Majority to prevent any local closures.  He says the governor has not identified which five will be closed.  However... he says closing either the Brocton or Collins facilities would be a blow to the region.  Bobseine says the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision reports that Brocton’s Lakeview Facility employs 510 staff... including Corrections Officers.  This Collins Facility employs 742 total staff.  He adds "these facilities play an important role in making our communities safer and providing rehabilitation and needed treatment services to incarcerated people.  I aim to be a strong voice for the employees at these facilities and protect their valuable work and the communities where they live.

Dunkirk man identified as victim in car -- tractor-trailer fatal accident... 
A north county man has now been identified as the person killed when his car struck the back of a tractor-trailer on Route 60 in the village of Fredonia.  State Police in Fredonia were called to the scene just after 2 p.m. Tuesday for a two-vehicle crash involving a big rig.  Troopers say a northbound Peterbilt tractor-trailer stopped in traffic at a red light... when the car... driven by 42 year-old Derek Seeger of Dunkirk... failed to stop and struck the rear of the trailer.  Police say Seeger was pronounced dead at the scene.  The State Police Collision Reconstruction Unit... and, their Bureau of Criminal Investigation assisted in this investigation... which is ongoing.

City man arrested for alleged menacing incident in town of Ellicott...
A Jamestown man faces charges after allegedly threatening a woman with a knife... and, several people with an airsoft rifle at a Fluvanna-area home.  Ellicott Town Police say they were called to a Fluvanna-Townline Road home a week ago on a report of a domestic dispute.  Officers say they found that 27 year-old Lee Larson threatened the female victim... and, shot towards several people with the airsoft gun.  Police adds that several children were present during the incident.  Larson was arrested for second-degree menacing... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

County Legislature approves new partial tax exemption for senior property owners...
The Chautauqua County Legislature has reversed course... and approved a lower income level for senior property owners to receive a partial exemption on their county taxes.  Lawmakers in Mayville last night approved the new limit of up to $30,000 to receive the 5% exemption in a party line, 12-3 vote.  Four legislators were absent.  The legislature last month agreed to a $55,000 level... but, looked further into the matter... and, decided on the lower number.  Sheridan Republican Terry Niebel felt the new number was "fair and reasonable...." and is the median income for seniors in the county.  Niebel felt the higher figure put an undue burden on other taxpayers.  Following a discussion with County Office for Aging Services Director Mary Ann Spanos... Fredonia Democrat Susan Parker proposed a decrease to $37,650.  Parker says lawmakers haven't made any changes to the law since 2017... and, that should be done more often.  Parker's proposed amendment to set the figure at $37,650 was defeated in another party line vote of 3-12. 

CCIDA approves for loans for business expansions, and acquistion...
The Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency has approved low-interest loans for three separate businesses totaling $725,000.  Deputy County Executive for Economic Development, and IDA Chief Executive Officer Mark Geise, says the loans will help companies that "want to invest in our communities and local workforce, and each of the loans approved by the IDA Board of Directors do just that."  The largest loan... totaling $400,000... is for a just over $1-million project being undertaken Shults Auto Group owners Tim and Ed Shults.  Geise says the project will use the 60,000 square foot ,former Quality Markets Store on Fluvanna Avenue for additional manufacturing space.  The IDA Board also approved two loans totaling $225,000 to help LINC acquire Universal Tool Company on Route 60 in Gerry.  LINC is a small, Native American-owned business and is certified as a New York State Minority and/or Women-owned Business Enterprise.  It specializes in business development/technical sales; supply services for machine tools, tooling, and manufacturing equipment.  The third business... ENI in Silver Creek... is receiving a $100,000, working capital loan to help fullfill two large orders for it's building complex mechanical equipment, prototype components, and low-volume production runs of specialized equipment for undersea, naval, and nuclear applications.

Two more parcels sold for residential use at Country View Estates in Jamestown...
The Jamestown City Council has approved the sale of two, 20-acre parcels of land to a pair of families at the Country View Estates to build new homes.  On Monday night... lawmakers okayed the measures unanimously... transferring title to Michael and Gail Espinoza... who currently live on Hallock Street.  The other property was sold to Paul and Linda Nelson of Howard Street.  Council President Tony Dolce says there are still about a dozen parcels available to build on... and, they all remain eligible for a 10-year tax abatement program.  Dolce says the approved sales are very good news for the city... which has seen little new home building in recent years.  He adds that one of the families moving in actually live outside the city limits... so that's good to see. 

Calimeri appointed to replace Slagle on the Jamestown School Board...
The Jamestown School Board has approved the appointment of Joseph Calimeri to fill the vacancy recently created by the resignation of Patrick Slagle during Tuesday night's meeting.  In addition... school officials say long-time school board member Joseph Pawelski was also nominated, and elected to serve as the board’s vice president during the meeting.  Calimeri, a 2003 graduate of Jamestown High School, will serve until the May 21 Annual Budget Vote and School Board Election.  In that election, the two candidates who receive the highest vote totals each will be elected to a three-year term to begin this July 1... and run until June 30 2027.  The candidate with the third highest vote total to be elected to a one-year term beginning on May 22nd.  Calimeri has served as partner at the law firm of Wright and Calimeri since 2017. 

Council approves new ordinances regarding vacant housing units, and public nuisance...
The Jamestown City Council has unanimously approved two new local laws dealing with vacant housing, and public nuisance issues in the city.  During last night's voting session... lawmakers approved the two ordinances without comment.  While a couple of landlords at the meeting voiced concerns over the vacant property registry... City Council President Tony Dolce said afterwards that the law came out of many comments by city residents... and, actually gets the city out in front of the state which is also considering such legislation.  Dolce adds it's also modeled after some other New York state communities.  He says the measure gives the city's Department of Development the ability to help evict tenants who aren't living up to their lease... or damage the unit.  As for the public nuisance ordinance... he says that "puts more teeth" into Secton 215 of the charter by strengthening what development officials can do to deal with quality of life matters.  Dolce says the city council will further take up a third ordinance regarding a Rental Property Inspection law next month. 

Beardsley pleads guilty to drug charges in federal court...
The leader of a drug trafficking ring in the city of Jamestown has pled guilty to federal charges of narcotics conspiracy... and, distribution of fentanyl... causing death.  U.S. Attorney Trini Ross has announced that 38 year-old Rocco Beardsley entered the plea Monday before U.S. District Court Judge John Sinatra, Jr. in Buffalo.  Prosecutors say that... between late 2018 and March 2020... Beardsley conspired with seven others sell methamphetamine, fentanyl, and other controlled substances in the Jamestown area.  In April of 2019... Beardsley allegedly sold acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl, which resulted in the death of an individual identified as "J.A."  They say -- after learning of J.A.’s death -- Beardsley tried to conceal his involvement in the overdose, including directing others to destroy evidence.  During that time... he bought and sold fentanyl, and meth for profit and for his own use, utilizing social media to conduct his drug trafficking activities.  Beardsley also used homes on Sampson Street and Cowden Place for his drug trafficking activities.  During the investigation... law enforcement conducted five controlled purchases from Beardsley.  In addition... they say Beardsley and his co-conspirators also made a series of money transfers in furtherance of the conspiracy.  During the investigation... raids were also conducted on the homes involved... and, during one... law enforcement seized a large amount of drugs... as well as 12-gauge shotgun, and drug paraphernalia.  Beardsley was previously convicted on federal and state drug charges.  He faces 20 years to life in prison when he is sentenced next July.

Schmidt announces sentence for Tufino in drug case...
A Jamestown man will spend the next four years in state prison after being convicted of fourth-degree attempted criminal possession of a narcotic drug.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says 46 year-old Alexis Tufino also received two-years post release supervision from Judge David Foley for the Felony charge.  Schmidt says... in April of 2023... Jamestown police conducted a traffic stop on Tufino’s vehicle and located suspected narcotics.  He says a more thorough search of him was also conducted by officers... who found more suspected narcotics.  Tufino was initially charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, fourth-degree criminal Possession of a narcotic drug. 

Jamestown and Chautauqua County officials recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month...
Dozens of blue pinwheels were planted around Tracy Plaza and Jamestown High School Monday afternoon to raise awareness of National Child Abuse Prevention Month.  A rally was held prior to that inside the lobby of City Hall... with elected, and other local officials on hand.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt told the gathering that his office "is committed to combating child abuse by treating these crimes with the utmost seriousness and working closely with law enforcement to crack down on offenders."  He says there are things to look out for that may indicate that they are being abused.  They can include: dressing or "covering up" more, eating less or much more, and becoming more introverted.  Schmidt adds that "protecting our children is paramount, and we will tirelessly pursue justice for victims while holding perpetrators accountable to the fullest extent of the law."  April is actually Child Abuse Prevention Month... but, the county's "Safe Harbor" program coordinator with the Child Advocacy Program says it's also "Family Strength and Support" Month.  Saradeen Randall says the focus there is on prevention.

Three arrested in Stockton on warrants, and drug possession...
Three people were arrested Monday morning during a warrant check at a town of Stockton business on drug... contempt and sex abuse charges.  Sheriff's officers say they sought 30 year-old Andrew Whitford of Frewsburg... and, when they made contact with him... deputies saw a car occupied by 31 year-old Shannon Boardman and 32 year-old Brandon Vangiesen -- both of whom have unknown addresses.  Officers knew of multiple warrants for Vangiesen... and, an active order of protection between the two.  Boardman and Vangiesen were later found to have nearly 9-grams of fentanyl along with scales and packaging material in their possession.  Deputies charged both with third and fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Vangeisen was additionally charged with second-degree criminal contempt... and, Whitford was arrested on a warrant for second-degree sexual abuse.
 

City man pleads guilty to federal drug charges for leading narcotics trafficking ring in Jamestown-area...
The leader of a drug trafficking ring in the city of Jamestown has pled guilty to federal charges of narcotics conspiracy... and, distribution of fentanyl... causing death.  U.S. Attorney Trini Ross has announced that 38 year-old Rocco Beardsley entered the plea Monday before U.S. District Court Judge John Sinatra, Jr. in Buffalo.  Prosecutors say that... between late 2018 and March 2020... Beardsley conspired with seven others sell methamphetamine, fentanyl, and other controlled substances in the Jamestown area.  In April of 2019... Beardsley allegedly sold acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl, which resulted in the death of an individual identified as "J.A."  They say -- after learning of J.A.’s death --  Beardsley took steps to conceal his involvement in the overdose, including by directing others to destroy evidence at the scene.  During that time... he bought and sold fentanyl, and meth for profit and for his own use, utilizing social media to conduct his drug trafficking activities.  Beardsley also used homes on Sampson Street and Cowden Place for his drug trafficking activities.  During the investigation... law enforcement conducted five controlled purchases from Beardsley.  In addition... they say Beardsley and his co-conspirators also made a series of money transfers in furtherance of the conspiracy.  During the investigation... raids were also conducted on the homes involved... and, during one... law enforcement seized about 100 grams of methamphetamine, 66 grams of fentanyl, 28 grams of cocaine, some crack cocaine, a 12-gauge shotgun, and drug paraphernalia.  Beardsley was previously convicted on federal charges in 2007... and, state charges in 2017.  He faces 20 years to life in prison when he is sentenced next July.

Investigation underway into early Friday officer-involved shooting death in Warren Co., Pa...
A Warren County, Pa. man has been killed in an officer-involved shooting following a confrontation in Freehold Township last Friday morning.  Pennsylvania State Police and the Warren County District Attorney's Office confirmed the shooting for various media outlets last weekend... and, are continuing to investigate.  The 41 year-old man who was killed had not been identified late Sunday.  State Police tell the Erie Times-News that the shooting occured about 6 a.m. on Stillwater Rd. between Bear Lake and Sugar Grove.  A State Police investigator tells the paper that troopers and local officers from Warren County went to the home for an undisclosed reason... and, during the confrontation... a trooper fired his weapon... killing the man.  State Police say the trooper involved in the shooting is now on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

City woman arrested for alleged assault using a pipe wrench... 
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for allegedly striking another person with a pipe wrench at a northside business yesterday afternoon... and, damaging property there.  City police were called to the unidentified business just after 3:30 p.m. on a report of an assault.  Officers say they spoke with the victim once they arrived... and saw that they had suffered a larceration to the head from the wrench.  Police also saw a damaged display case... and, merchandise in the business.  Their investigation led to the arrest of 19 year-old Brittany Hesslink... who was found a short distance away.  Hesslink was taken to the city jail pending arraignment on charges of second-degree assault... third-degree criminal mischief... and criminal possession of a weapon

City Council to vote on Ordinances regarding housing and dealing with public nuisances tonight...
The Jamestown City Council has approved two local ordinances dealing mainly with housing... along with nuisance issues in the city.  Lawmakers received more information last Monday on the laws... one of which establishes a Vacant Real Property Registration... and, the other formally creates the Public Nuisance policies.  City Development Director Crystal Surdyk says council will act on the third measure... an ordinance regarding rental properties... next month.  Surdyk say there are still some areas that need work regarding the Rental Inspection ordinance.  The new ordinances have been developed by Deputy Director of Housing Policy, Kasie Faulk, who says they'll be using multiple sources to determine what constitutes a "truly" vacant property.  Foulk says they'll be using county resources, neighborhood reports, and others.  As for the Rental Inspection ordinance... Surdyk says they hope to have that finalized for a vote next month.  In response to a question... Surdyk says they have included ways to deal with tenants who damage or leave a unit in poor condition.  Foulk says... the first inspection will cost $50, and, failure to register a recent unit is a $50 fine. 

City woman arrested for DWI after leaving the scene of property damage accident...
A Jamestown woman has been arrested after almost hitting a police officer -- then hitting a parked car -- on the city's eastside last Friday night.  Jamestown Police were working a Gun-Involved Violence Elimination "Micro Hot Spot Detail" shortly before 10 p.m. in the area of Falconer and Struges Streets... when the officer was nearly struck.   Police say the officer then saw the vehicle strike a parked car... and, leave the scene.  Officers say they then located the car in the area of Buffalo Street and Blackstone Avenue a short time later.  They identified the driver as 64 year-old Marcia Howie... and, further investigation determined that Howie was operating the vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.  She was arrested for DWI... leaving the scene of a property damage accident... and, DWI Per Se.  Howie was booked and issued an appearance ticket for City Court.
 

Predicate Felon found with loaded handgun in Jamestown sentenced to at least 15 years in prison...
A man from southern Erie County, NY will spend the next 15 years to life in state prison for being a persistant Felon in possession of a firearm.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt announced Thursday that the sentence was handed down for 36 year-old Joshua Hammer of Collins Center... who was convicted by a County Court Jury last October of illegally possessing a pistol in the city of Jamestown.  Schmidt says the arrest was made during a traffic stop in 2022... in which Hammer was in possession of a loaded, .380-calibur pistol.  Schmidt says the case was successfully prosecuted by Assistant D.A.'s Andrew Molitor and Erik Bentley... and,  thanked Jamestown police for their "hard work on this case."  He says Hammer had three prior felony convictions... making him eligible for the enhanced sentence.  Schmidt says “just this past Monday three people were shot in Jamestown, killing one of them, by illegally possessed handguns.  We hope this conviction sends a strong message across Chautauqua County that felons in possession of illegal guns will be caught and fully prosecuted by our office where they will face significant prison time." 

North county man arrested following road rage incident in town of Sheridan...
An Irving man is facing several charges after an investigation into a two-vehicle crash Thursday morning in the Town of Sheridan. State Police in Fredonia say the crash on Middle Road, which was reported at about 8:30 a.m,. was a road rage incident where a vehicle driven by 33-year-old Jose Lebron-Ortiz struck the other vehicle, which was driven by an ex-girlfriend and also occupied by a one-year-old child.  Troopers say all three people were sent to Brooks Memorial Hospital for evaluation.  Injuries suffered in the incident were minor; the child was uninjured.  Lebron-Ortiz was charged with first-degree criminal contempt... first-degree reckless endangerment... fourth-degree stalking... endangering the welfare of a child... and was issued several traffic tickets. He was taken to the County Jail... and, jailed on $100,000 bail.

Two arrested during Dunkirk drug bust...
Two north county residents have been arrested during a drug raid Thursday afternoon in the city of Dunkirk.  Sheriff's officers say narcotics investigators with their office... and, the Dunkirk Police Department... executed a search warant at 27 West Lucas Ave. shortly after 1 p.m. with the help of the Dunkirk SRT Team.  The raid culminated a six-month investigation into alleged drug trafficking at the residence.  Deputies say they located 46 year-old Yajaira Herrera Hernandez... and, 26 year-old Jose Pacheco... who was observed leaving the lower apartment just prior to police arriving.  During a search of the home... investigators seized 2.78 grams of crack cocaine... scales and packaging material for the distribution of narcotics... and, a quantity of cash.  Herrera Hernandez was charged with third-degree criminal sale, and possession of a controlled substance... second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... first-degree criminal nuisance... and, endangering the welfare of a Child.  Pacheco was charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... two counts of seventh-degree criminal possession... and, second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  Officers say Pacheco and Herrera Hernandez were jailed pending arraignment.

Early Presidential Primary voting begins in Chautauqua Co. this Saturday...
New York state's presidential primaries will be held on Tuesday, April 2nd.  However... early voting for those primaries gets underway this weekend.  Chautauqua County Republican Elections Commissioner Brian Abram... says early voting for the Democratic and Republican primaries gets underway today (Saturday), Mar. 23, and will run through the following Saturday, Mar. 30.  Abram says the state's presidential primaries are usually held in late April, but this year's primaries are slated for early April.  And... with Easter on Sun., Mar. 31, Abram says early voting will only run for eight days.  Abram says hours each of those eight days will run one hour later than previously.  He adds you can vote at any of the four locations they'll have set up.  They include: the County Fairgrounds in Dunkirk... the Chautauqua Mall in Lakewood... the Jackson Center in Jamestown... and, the Board of Elections Offices in Mayville.  He says all Democratic and Republican party members are eligible to vote, while all other party members or voters without a designated party are not eligible. 

Whitaker says Jamestown Public Schools closing in on pre-pandemic attendance levels...
The Jamestown Public Schools have seen student attendance return to just about pre-COVID 19 levels... but, officials are still looking for improvement in some areas.  That from School Superintendent Kevin Whitaker... who says -- overall -- they are close to 90% attendance each school day.  Dr. Whitaker says that's been helped most by more than 91% in the elementary and middle-school levels.  He says the problem is a lag in high school attendance... where attendance is just over 80%.  Whitaker says it's a challenge that's faced all public schools in the state.  He says there are a number of factors that can be involved with the high school.  One is the student there is older, and more of an adult.  There are also the parents sometime focusing on younger siblings and making sure they get to school.  Whitaker says attendance at Jamestown High School has been just over 80-percent.  He made his comments during a Thursday interview with our Dennis Webster.  

Jamestown police, DA Schmidt release identity of shooting victim in Monday's homicide...
City police are confirming the death of a Dunkirk man in last Monday afternoon's shooting incident on Jamestown's northside.  However... they now say two other people were seriously hurt in the incident at 839 Prendergast Ave.  According to Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt... at least one of them was taken to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pa. in critical condition.  That was an unidentified male from Jamestown.  The second person has not been identified as well.  Schmidt revealed the identity late Tuesday of the person who lost his life in the incident, which occured about 5:30 p.m.  He says 26 year-old Travon Tripp -- most recently of Dunkirk -- died at the scene.  Schmidt says his office has developed a lot of evidence, and leads through traffic and other cameras, along with witness accounts.  However... at this time, he says no suspects have been announced.  Schmidt adds that it appears drug sales may have factored into the shooting... but, the exact circumstances are still being investigated. 

Frewsburg man arrested after three dead horse are found on his property...
A Frewsburg man has been arrested after three horses were recently found dead on his property after failing to provide sustenance to them.  Carroll Town Police say they investigated a report of the three horses being found dead on the Sandberg Road property of Ryan Edwards one week ago.  Police say Edwards was arrested for Neglect/Failure to provide Proper Sustenance under the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law... and, was issued an appearance ticket for Carroll Town Court.

City man arrested for alleged break-ins in Cattaraugus County...
A Jamestown man has been arrested in Cattaraugus County for three alleged break-ins on the St. Bonaventure University campus... and, in the village of Allegany.  Sheriff's officers in Little Valley say 55 year-old Marcus Norman first entered a residence illegally on the St. Bonaventure campus back in December... and, stole property there.  Norman is accused of entering a second residence this past Sunday.  However... he was spooked off by the residents... who were home at the time before he took anything.  Norman then allegedly got into the village residence again before being spooked off by the residents.  This time... one resident chased after Norman to try to identify him.  He was arrested at his workplace Monday... for second-degree burglary... two counts of secnd-degree attempted burglary... and, one of petty larceny.  Since he is a parolee... Norman was jailed without bail... and, will appear in Allegany Town Court at a later date.

Wendel to join with other county leaders across the U.S. to go to Southern Border to see migrant crisis...
Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel is among several county leaders from across the nation who'll be traveling to the southern border later this month to see first-hand what's happening with the migrant crisis.  On Tuesday... Wendel also renewed his Emergency Order, prohibiting local hotels, and other places from contracting with New York City -- and others -- to bring migrants here.  Wendel says an intelligence agent recently spoke to the New York State Association of Counties about the matter... and, says the biggest issue lately has been the number of people coming from countries that aren't our friends.  He says that's a "huge  concern."  Wendel says there have also been significant numbers of undocumented immigrants from China, Syrians, Russians, and Africa as well.  He maintains that Governor Kathy Hochul could begin to solve the problem by cancelling out the state... and, New York city's... Sanctuary status by just reversing the order that's in place.  The New York City migrant crisis has also exacerbated the city's housing shortage that began in April of 2022. 

Good turn-out for "Career Fest" at JCC...
The annual "Career Fest" at Jamestown Community College Tuesday attracted a lot of attention... with some 37 attending, and there were 60 to 70 attendees.  That from Julie Page, the Project Manager for Career Services at the college.  She organized the event.  The law firm Fessenden, Laumer and DeAngelo was one of the employers represented at the festival.  Attorney Chuck DeAngelo was excited to be there... and, says they're looking to recruit new employees for their growing firm.  SKF Aeroengine also had a table at Career Fest.  Building manager Dan Leake says they have 16 openings for inspectors and engineers.  Leake says the SKF website has more information.  He adds they also have 8 engineering internship positions at the Falconer plant this  summer.  College students interested in one of those spots should contact the plant directly.  

Gas pump prices hold steady in Jamestown-area; rise by 7-cents nationally...
Gasoline prices in the Jamestown-area remain stable this week... even as the national average climbs b seven-cents a gallon.  The AAA East Central Gas Price Report says, locally, the price for a gallon of regular, unleaded, remains just under $3.50 a gallon.  It's been that price for the past several weeks.  However... nationally... the price is up from $3.39 to $3.46 this week.  AAA says the big factors for the increase are the price of oil crossing the $80 mark per barrel... and, gasoline demand increasing as spring approaches.  Officials say another critical factor is the arrival of more expensive summer blend gasoline in some markets.  AAA says that tends to increase pump prices by 10 to 15 cents. 

Man from Dunkirk identified as victim killed in Monday shooting on Jamestown's northside...
The investigation was continuing late last night into a shooting incident -- that turned fatal -- on Jamestown's northside that occured late Monday afternoon.  City police were initially called to the scene at 839 Prendergast Ave. around 5:30 p.m.  We have learned that two people were reportedly shot -- and, the Post-Journal was reporting one was shot in the chest.  Late Tuesday... Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt identified the victim as 26 year-old Travon Tripp of Dunkirk.  Schmidt says the other victim was critically wounded... and, was rushed to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie, Pa.  We do have calls into JPD... but, have not heard back from them yet.  Jamestown firefighters and County EMS were also called to the scene... along with Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt.  The 800-block of Prendergast Avenue was the scene of a brazen, day-light shooting in August of 2022... in which one man was killed, and two others were later arrested in what was described as a "targeted shooting."

City Council learns more about proposed additional bond for new Fleet Maintenance Building...
The Jamestown City Council is looking at borrowing another $1.7-million to complete the new fleet maintenance building on Washington Street.  However... that number may increase if the city isn't able to get a $1-million grant it's seeking for the project.  That from City Comptroller Ericka Thomas... who explained last night the need for the additional, short-term borrowing on top of the $2.85-million already bonded for.  Thomas says they have expenses over the original bond, totaling just over $2-million... and, adds that Interim Public Works Director Mark Roetzer needs another $700,000 to complete the project.  To date... Thomas says the city has spent $4.89-million on the project at the former Hartley Buick dealership.  The grant would come from the Federal Reserve Board... which she currently speaking with to nail down a time they will hear about approval.  Roetzer was asked... with costs going up... if the DPW is trying to use as much of the current building's equipment in the new one.  He says yes... and, that includes moving three cranes to the new building, and buying one new one.  Mayor Kim Ecklund and council members agreed that while the new building will cost much more than previously expected... it has to be completed.  Roetzer says much of the new building is ready... but, he's hoping to be completely moved in by early Summer.

Fire destroys South Dayton home...
No injuries were reported... but, flames have destroyed a home in the Cattaraugus County community of South Dayton.  Sheriff's Department dispatchers in Little Valley say South Dayton fire crews were called to 303 Oak St. about 10:30 a.m. Monday... and, mutual aid was called in from nine other departments... including three from Chautauqua County.  They were: Forestville, Cherry Creek, and Sunset Bay.  The home was a total loss.  The cause has not been released.

Fire Chief urges local fire department, and new recruits to take advantage of new program to pay training costs... 
Chautauqua County fire and emergency officials are urging local fire departments to take advantage of a new, $10-million NYS training stipend program to help recruit new members.  Fire Departments here, and across the state have been plagued in recent years by decreasing numbers of volunteers.  Helping to spearhead the new program locally is Fredonia Fire Chief Josh Myers... who says the program will cover the cost for three needed training programs by recruits.  The first is $750 for completing of Basic Exterior Firefighting operations... the second is $1,250 for completeing Basic Interior firefighting... and, $1,000 for completion of Fire Officer-One training.  He says for many... it's difficult to find the money... and, time for the 109 hours of total training needed for the fire service.  Myers adds that volunteer departments often don't have the money to help the recruit pay for the specialized training... and Myers hopes this will encourage more people to volunteer for the fire service.  Volunteer departments often don't have the money to help the recruit pay for the specialized training... and Myers hopes this will encourage more people to volunteer for the fire service. He says the initiative... administered by the State Office of Fire Prevention and Control... stands as a beacon of hope for many small municipalities like Fredonia... which has the only full and part-time department.

Ecklund announces the city and Red Cross are teaming up for "Sound The Alarm" this Saturday...
Last week's fatal apartment fire at the Senior High Rise in Jamestown is serving as a reminder that residents should make sure to have working smoke detectors inside their homes.  That from Mayor Kim Ecklund... who has been working with the local Red Cross to schedule a smoke detector give-away this coming Sat., Mar. 23.  Ecklund says the Red Cross is including Jamestown in the nationwide "Sound the Alarm" program because the number of fires that have occured in recent times in the city has been cause for concern.  Ecklund says the give-away will be staged at Fletcher Elementary School in the city's southside... where volunteers will gather before going to homes where the resident has registered to receive one to three detectors.  She says orientation will begin at the school at 8:30 a.m.  Ecklund says they'll have enough smoke detectors to give out to between 90 and 100 homes.  For more information... call her office at 483-7600... or go on-line to www.soundthealarm/wny.

Two reportedly shot during incident in 800-block of Prendergast Ave. in Jamestown...
Jamestown police were still at the scene late last night of a shooting on the city's northside that occured late Monday afternoon.  City police were initially called to the scene in the 800-block of Prendergast Ave.  We have learned that two people were reportedly shot -- and, the Post-Journal was reporting one was shot in the chest.  Jamestown firefighters and the county's Emergency Management Services were also called to the scene about 5:30 p.m.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt was also called to the scene.  The 800-block of Prendergast Avenue was the scene of a brazen, day-light shooting in which one man was killed, and two others were later arrested in what was described as a "targeted shooting."

Wanted man from Dunkirk arrested on drug, and other charges...
A Dunkirk man faces drug and other charges following a traffic stop in the city of Jamestown early Sunday morning.  City police say members of their Violence Interdiction Unit stopped a vehicle... driven by 41 year-old Marlo Carter on Liberty St. -- near East Sixth -- shortly after 12:30 a.m.  Officers say they found Carter was driving with a suspended license... and that he had several active warrants out of Dunkirk City Court.  While being taken to Dunkirk... police say Carter removed a quantity of Fentanyl from a concealed location on his body and tried to dispose of it in the back of the patrol car.  He was then taken to the Jamestown City Jail on charges including: seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, Felony tampering with physical evidence.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Woman from Sherman arrested for DWI after her car is found in a pond...
A Sherman woman is accused of drunk driving after her car was found in a pond on Route 76 in the town of Sherman last Friday afternoon.  Sheriff's officers say they responded to the call for a motor vehicle accident shortly before 4 p.m., and, learned the driver, 43 year-old Heather Ramsey, had been taken to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital to be evaluated for possible injuries.  Deputies say further investigation found Ramsey had been driving while intoxicated.  She was arrested... and, charged with DWI and moving from lane unsafely.  Ramsey was issued an appearance ticket for Sherman Town Court.

Sheridan man arrested for DWI following two car crash...
A north county man faces a drunk driving charge after allegedly being found with a blood alcohol content more than two-times the legal limit following a two-car accident in the town of Sheridan.  Sheriff's officers say they responded to the property damage accident shortly after 4 p.m. last Thursday.  Their investigation showed that 63 year-old Lorne Carter of Sheridan was the driver of one of the vehicle... and, was driving while intoxicated.  Carter was taken into custody on charges of Aggravated DWI... and, and failure to yield the right of way when entering a roadway.  He was issued appearance tickets for Sheridan Town Court at a later date.

Borrello critical of "one-house" budget approved by Senate...
Both the New York State Assembly and Senate are calling for significantly more spending in their "one-house" budgets than Governor Kathy Hochul's proposed 2024-25 spending plan.  Local State Senator George Borrello is critical of his chamber's budget bill, which totals $246.2-billion, which is $13.2-billion more than Hochul's budget.  Borrello says it "doubles down on...tax-and-spend and politically-driven policies" that have resulted in New York leading the nation in outmigration of residents.  He says, since one-party rule has been the norm, spending in the state is up 44% since 2019.  Borrello... a Sunset Bay Republican... adds that Senate one-house bill would raise $14-billion in income taxes over the next two years through increases in the income tax, on business taxs and on health insurance.  He still believes the state will not meet the Apr. 1 deadline for a new budget.  Borrello says he acknowledges that the bill does contain restorations he has pushed for, including reversing school aid cuts and aid increases to agriculture programs such as "Nourish New York."

Near perfect weather Saturday morning greeted Jamestown's annual "Turn the River Green..."
A good crowd of people dressed in green were on hand on a near-perfect, mid-March morning to be part of the city of Jamestown's annual "Turn the River Green" last Saturday.  There was St. Patrick's Day music... and Irish-themed activities along the city's riverwalk for the event... put on by the city along with Collaborative Children's Solutions.  The organization's owner, Patrick Smeraldo, expressed much appreciation to the city for it's help.  He says city police and later the fire department were on hand to ensure safety, and the city Parks Department did the set up near the JAMA parking lot.  Smeraldo say they make "it easy" to do such an event.  A couple of hundred people were on hand for the event... held each year along the city's Riverwalk.  Mayor Kim Ecklund helped welcome the crowd... and expressed her appreciation to the Parks Department, and the Board of Public Utilities for making the event happen. 

JCC to host Career Fest on Tuesday...
The Career Services Office at Jamestown Community College will present ‘Career Fest’ on Tuesday -- Mar. 19 -- from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Hamilton Collegiate Center.  The Project Manager at Career Services, Julie Page, says they’ll have over 33 employers represented... ranging from health care, to manufacturing, engineering and art.  Page adds they want to make it a fun event, too… so they’ll have games for people to win tickets.  Career Fest is free to attend and is open to anyone in the community looking to find a new career.
 

Still no identity released on victim in Monday's fire at Jamestown Senior High Rise, but, is confirmed as an "older man..."
Jamestown fire officials do confirm that an older man was the victim of this past Monday night's seventh-floor apartment fire at the Senior High Rise on West Fifth Street.  That from Deputy Fire Chief Matt Coon... who says city police are still working to notify next of kin about the death.  No other information has been released.  The man was one just over 90 residents of the High Rise at 303 West Fifth when the fire broke out in his apartment about 7:30 p.m.  Mayor Kim Ecklund praised the firefighting and rescue efforts that also involved the Celoron Fire EMS, and some surrounding police agencies.  Ecklund adds they also had to get many of the residents out who had differing types of disabilities, or were confined to wheelchairs.  Ecklund says she saw "acts of true heroism" that night... with city firefighers getting a quick handle on the smokey fire.  She says the outcome could have been worse.  Ecklund says firefighters were already getting the situation under control when she arrived a few minutes after the alarm for 20 off-duty firefighters to respond.  They had the flames out in about 15 to 20 minutes.  The cause of the fire was unattended cooking on a stove top.  About 30 residents were temporarily displaced due to the smokey blaze.  Mayor Ecklund made her comments for this weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.

Pair of trespassers arrested in Ripley...
Two Ripley residents have been arrested for allegedly trespassing on private property... then trying to hide in nearby brush.  Sheriff's officers and State Police Troopers say they were flagged down by a bystander on North State Street shortly before 6 p.m. Wednesday for a man and woman trespassing on the property.  Police say their investigation showed that 35 year-old William Burch, Jr., and 39 year-old Kathryn Burch, were the suspects and began searching.  They were both found hiding in the thick, red brush with the help of K-9 "Bentley" and taken into custody.  Both face two counts of criminal trespassing... and, were taken to the Sheriff's Department Ripley Substation for processing and were released with appearance tickets for Ripley Town Court.

County offices to closure for the afternoon of the Total Solar Eclipse...
In anticipation of the upcoming 2024 Total Solar Eclipse... Chautauqua County government will close all county offices and services... with the exception of emergency and essential services... beginning at noon on Monday, Apr. 8.  County Executive P.J. Wendel says non-essential services and offices will be closed until Tuesday, Apr. 9 at 8:30 a.m.  Wendel says the decision is in line with the county's comprehensive approach to eclipse preparedness, which includes traffic management strategies, enhanced emergency response capabilities, and community engagement initiatives.  By closing county offices and services during the eclipse... he says they are aiming to minimize traffic congestion, promote public safety, and enable residents and visitors to fully experience this rare celestial phenomenon.  Wendel adds that "the safety and convenience of our community are paramount, and closing County Offices during the eclipse will help alleviate potential congestion and ensure everyone can safely enjoy this rare celestial event."  For information on eclipse safety... and, where to obtain free solar glasses... go on-line to chqgov.com/eclipse.

Jamestown set to again host the annual "Turn The River Green" event...
The city of Jamestown remains one of the less than 10 communities in the United States that turns it's river green for St. Patrick's Day.  This year's event takes place tomorrow morning along the Chadakoin River next to the JAMA parking lot in Brooklyn Square.  The city will be holding the annual "Turn the River Green" event with the help of the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities.  Mayor Kim Ecklund says everything gets underway at 10 a.m., with vendors selling food, and other St. Patrick's Day-themed item.  She adds the Lucky Leprechan will also be on hand.  It's all put on with the help of Collaborative Children's Solutions.  Ecklund says there will also be Irish music.  She says it looks like the weather will be cooperating this year.  The BPU uses an innocuous material to help the Lucky Leprechan turn the river green... and Ecklund says it's a material used by the BPU for it's smoke testing of water and sewer pipes.  

PS Board begins review of nearly $104-million budget for city school district...
Members of the Jamestown School Board are getting their first look at a proposed, nearly $104-million dollar, 2024-25 budget that includes no tax increase.  That from School Superintendent Kevin Whitaker... who along with Assistant Superintendent for Finance... Brittney Spry... laid out the first draft of the spending plan at this week's board meeting.  Dr. Whitaker says the budget also keeps the services they've provided for students coming out of the pandemic in place.  Those include support programs for educational, emotional, and mental health.  Whitaker says spending is up slightly in this budget... but, he says a combination of additional BOCES Aid... and, Foundation Aid from New York state... is covering that.  He says he had the chance -- with others -- to find out from state legislative leaders about where base school aid is going.  He says that should see an increase of 2.5% for Jamestown.  The school board will continue it's review until a final budget goes up for a vote in May.

Borrello says he supports a number of proposals in legislature's "One House..." but, doesn't back others...
The New York State Senate and Assembly should begin debating budget bills in Albany Thursday after releasing their "one-house" spending measures.  In the meantime... negotiations are underway between legislative leaders and Governor Kathy Hochul.  Local State Senator George Borrello says he supports a number of proposals that are included in both the Senate and Assembly one-house budgets... but, has concerns over others.  Borrello says his biggest concern... which is shared by several others... has to do with restoring Foundation -- or Base Aid -- to local school districts.  He says that's especially important for rural districts... of which there are several in Chautauqua County.  However... The Sunset Bay Republican says the fact that policy issues remain in both budgets could be problematic.  Borrello cited... as an example... the New York HEAT Act... which is included fully in the Senate version.  He says the HEAT Act is a policy measure which would allow the state's Public Service Commission to decommission natural gas infrastructure in New York for any reason.

Dunkirk man arrested on multiple drug charges following raid...
A Dunkirk man faces multiple drug charges following a raid on his home in the north county city Tuesday afternoon.  Narcotics investigators with the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office... and, Dunkirk Police Department... executed a search warrant at 51 East Second St. about 12:30 p.m. with the help of Dunkir's SRT Team.  Investigators located 26 year-old Jose Pacheco inside... along with 5-grams of crack cocaine, scales and packaging materials for trafficking drugs... and a quantity of cash.  Pacheco was arrested on one count each of third-and fourth-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  He was taken to the Dunkirk Police Department where he was held pending arraignment. 

County emphasizing safety on Apr. 8 for Total Solar Eclipse...
Personal safety is a big concern for Chautauqua County officials with the upcoming Total Solar Eclipse.  That goes for your eyes... and, on the roadways.  The eyes were the major focus for health officials... and Public Health Director Lacey Wilson emphasized the need to use properly ISO rated eclipse glasses... that will be distributed by the county.  Wilson warns that not every pair of solar glasses are ISO rated, and standardized.  She says the county's eclipse glasses have an ISO rating of 12312-2... meaning they meet several national and international standards for such glasses.  If you don't use the glasses... or the improper glasses... County Physician Michael Faulk says you can damage the retina.  Faulk says it's called "Solar Retinopathy."  He says the Retina is in the back of the eye... but, still can be harmed by the sun's powerful rays.  If that happens... Dr. Faulk says happens... symptoms could include: a blind spot in both one or both eyes... blurry vision... or headaches.  For the proper eyeware... go on-line to glasses@chqgov.com.

Jamestown man arrested as fugitive...
A city man is accused of driving without a license after being stopped on Jamestown's westside for allegedly having an uninspected car.  City police say they pulled over 48 year-old James Lindsay III near the corner of West Fifth and Jefferson Streets shortly before 6 p.m. Tuesday... and, also found his license had been revoked.  Further investigation found that Lindsay was also sought on a warrant out of the Warren County Sheriff's Office in Pennsylvania.  He was taken into custody on a Felony fugitive from justice charge... and, and was jailed pending his arraignment.

Whitaker says JPS District excited about musical, basketball and other extra curricular activites...
It's an exciting time for extra-curricular events and activities in the Jamestown Public Schools... with the start of the annual Spring Musical... and, the Boy's Varsity Basketball Team in the final four at Glens Falls.  That from Superintendent Kevin Whitaker... who told our Dennis Webster Thursday morning that the musical begins tonight with a 7 p.m. performance.  Another 7 p.m. performance will be held on Friday, and a 2 p.m. matinee is set for Saturday.  In addition... the Varsity Boy's Basketball Team will play it's semi-final Class AA play-off game Friday at 2:15 p.m. against Elmont from the New York City Metro Area.  Dr. Whitaker adds both have identical 21-4 records going into the weekend.  The winner plays in the championship game Saturday.  He also congratulated Varsity Bowler Abbie Derby... Swimmer Connor Dean... and, Indoor Track stand-out Jared Cotter on making individual state championships.  

Fire at Jamestown Senior High Rise claims one life...
A fatal fire has damaged part of the seventh-floor of the Senior High Rise building in downtown Jamestown... and, has displaced some of the residents.  City Fire Battlion Keith Olson says crews were called to the scene at 303 West Fifth St. just before 7:30 p.m. Monday, and, found smoke and fire coming from one of the apartments.  Crews quickly moved to the upper floors, and hit the fire with water from their high rise system.  Olson says an off-duty shift went to the scene... while others remained at Station-One at City Hall to maintain city coverage.  Battalion Chief Shawn Shilling says crews had the flames under control and out by shortly after 8 p.m.  Crews were still at the scene late Monday night.  No other residents were hurt... but, one firefighter had minor injuries.  Unattended cooking on a stove apparently triggered the fire... which was mainly confined to the seventh-floor apartment.  City officials say 30 of the 90-plus residents are being assisted temporariiy by the local Red Cross.

City man wanted on warrant found by police with fentanyl and another drug...
A Jamestown man has been arrested for being found in possession of fentanyl and another controlled substance following a weekend traffic stop on the city's southside.  Jamestown Police say their Violence Interdiction... and, K-9 Units... stopped the car on Kidder Street -- near Broadhead Avenue -- shortly after 11 p.m. last Saturday.  Officers say they found that 33 year-old Christopher Belin ws in possession of a quantity of Alprazolam... and, a digital scale.  Police took Belin into custody and he was taken to the city jail for booking.  During a search... Belin allegedly removed the fentanyl from his person... and, tried to consume it to avoid being caught.  However... he was caught.  Police charged Belin with one count each of third, fourth and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... tampering with physical evidence... and, second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Falconer man arrested for drug possession following unwanted person call...
A Falconer man has been arrested on multiple drug charges after his arrest in Jamestown for being an unwanted person inside a home.  City police were called to the scene at 310 Allen St. shortly after 3 a.m. Sunday... and, learned that 34 year-old Jacob Carr was one of the unwanted persons there.  They also found that there was an active arrest warrant for him out of City Court.  Police arrested Carr and, a later search found seperately packaged fentanyl and methamphetamine in his possession.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

County Chamber, and Visitor's Bureau teaming up to help promote businesses providing Total Solar Eclipse scheduling and merchandise...
A large number of visitors are expected in Chautauqua County for next month's total solar eclipse... and, with that the county's Chamber of Commerce is helping local businesses who will be dealing with additional customers that day.  Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Dan Heitzenrater says they have been teaming up with the county's Visitors Bureau on getting the word out about businesses who will be hosting special events on the weekend of the eclipse.  Heitzenrater says CCVB has been spearheading collection and listing of those events" so people coming into the area can take advantage of them... and, the chamber is trying to suppliment that.  He says businesses can register by going to the Chamber's website or the CCVB website.  He says that offer is for businesses that will be holding special hours that day... or specials that are eclipse-themed.  As of Monday, Heitzenrater says the Visitors Bureau had listed 47 locations in the county with special eclipse events.  The chamber recently hosted workshops in Dunkirk and Jamestown specifically geared towards helping businesses prepare for the eclipse.

No city-sponsored eclipse events in Jamestown, but, there's at least one event taking place at the Fenton...
The city of Jamestown is not sponsoring any solar eclipse events on Apr. 8, but, the Fenton History Center will be hosting a viewing party that day from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.  The city council's Public Safety Committee recently voted to approve the event... and the full council will vote on it Monday, Mar. 25.  Mayor Kim Ecklund says... though... that she and other city leaders are preparing for any possible emergencies... including potential power and communications issues.  Ecklund says the city will be receiving several of the special eclipse-viewing glasses from Chautauqua County... and, they'll have more information soon about distribution.  The total solar eclipse is to take place about 3:15 p.m. to 3:22 p.m. in the Jamestown -- Chautauqua County area.  Most viewing events are generally taking place between 2 and 4 p.m. 

Man and woman from Jamestown arrested after breaking each other's glasses during domestic dispute...
A man and woman from Jamestown were arrested Sunday for allegedly breaking each other's glasses during a domestic dispute on the city's northside.  Jametown police were called to the unidentified location about 2:30 p.m., and, after investigating, learned that both 37 year-old Karen Danson... and, 35 year-old Andrew Cooley... had broken each other's prescription glasses.  Officers also found that Danson and Cooley had valid orders of protections against one another.  Police took both into custody and they were taken to the city jail on charges of second-degree criminal contempt... and, fourth-degree criminal mischief.  Both were jailed pending arraignment.

City man arrested for two incidents in Jamestown last Friday...
A Jamestown man is accused of brandishing a knife at one city business... and, then just a few hours later breaking a window at another business.  City police say they were called to a northside business just after 10 a.m. Friday on a complaint of a person with a weapon.  Officers say their investigation showed that 53 year-old Ervin Mitchell had brandished the knife in a threatening manner towards an employee of the business.  Mitchell was arrested and taken to the city jail for arraignment on charges of second-degree menacing... and, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon,   In accordance with the state's Bail Reform law... Jamestown police released Mitchell.  Then... about 1:30 p.m.... officers were called to a westside business where Mitchell had allegedly become disorderly... and, broke out the window.  Police again arrested Mitchell... and, took him to the city jail on one count of fourth-degree criminal mischief.  Mitchell was arraigned on the new charge on Saturday... and, again issued an appearance ticket for city court.

Rolison arrested at county jail for allegedly taking contraband from city woman...         
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for allegedly trying to pass methamphetamine to the city man recently convicted of having killed two people in separate accidents while high on drugs.  Sheriff's officers say observant corrections officers at the county jail saw 56 year-old Debbie Hires passing an object to 60 year-old Randall Rolison during a morning visitation last Thursday.  Officers say they later found Rolison had placed a package containing methamphetamine into his mouth.  Deputies arrested Hires for first-degree promoting prison contraband... fifth-degree criminal sale of a Controlled Substance... and seventh-degree ciminal possession of a Controlled Substance.  Rolison was also charged with first-degree promoting prison contraband... and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Both were held pending Centralized Arraignment.

Wendel discusses potential wetlands designation changes for Chautauqua Lake...
Different parts of Chautauqua Lake may become new, designated wetlands next January... but, that doesn't mean the entire south basin will be.  That from County Executive P.J. Wendel... who says he is "very concerned" about how the news from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has come out.  However... Wendel says it's an exaggeration to believe property owners won't be able to put out docks... or see their property values plummet.  He says he and the legislature chairman had a high-level meeting with DEC officials recently... and, he says they were told that they are not expanding the wetlands areas of the lake.  Wendel adds "we need to hold them accountable to that statement."  Wendel says he is continuing to push the state for clarity on what is going on with the lake... and what areas are being looked at for wetland areas.  He also points out that there are already parts of the lake that are wetlands... and, some have been since 1975.  He says part of issue is the lake is shallow... and, in those very shallow areas where there's also aquatic vegetation just below the surface creates the wetlands situation.  He made his comments for last weekend's Community Spotlight program.

City fire officials investigating fire allegedly set inside a westside garage last Friday morning...
Jamestown fire investigators say someone intentionally started a fire inside a garage that caused significant interior damage to the structure early last Friday morning.  Deputy Fire Chief Matt Coon says crews were called to the scene at 63 West 14th St. just after 6 a.m., and, found heavy smoke, and little fire coming from the structure.  Coon says it took about 10 minutes to get the fire out.  They found a piece of furniture with fire damage where the flames may have started.  There was fire, smoke and water damage throughout the garage's interior... but, little damage to the outside.  There were no injuries reported.  The investigation is continuing.

City Council to vote on new, shared services agreement with Busti for EMS transports...
The Jamestown City Council will vote later this month on a new, shared services agreement with the Busti Fire Department for emergency transport services.  During Council's recent work session... City Deputy Fire Chief Matt Coon explained that legislation signed by Governor Kathy Hochul in 2022 allows such agreements... and, will allow Busti to bill insurance when it has to provide ambulance transports in the city.  Coon says that allows only Busti to recover it's costs for those transports.  In addition... Coon says, if the Jamestown Fire Department is called to assist with a transport from the Busti Fire District, they would be reimbursed for that cost as well.  Councilman Bill Reynolds called it a "win-win" for the city and the town.  Coon says... once the city gets it's new, second-ambulance in service... the need for outside transport help should be reduced.

City man accused of giving one-year-old marijuana to consume...
A Jamestown man is accused of allowing a one-year-old child to consume some marijuana... then leaving the hospital with the child before the toddler was treated.  City police say they were called to UPMC Chautauqua Hospital shortly before 9:30 p.m. last Friday for a "suspicious situation."  Officers say they found that 21 year-old Elijah McBride had allowed the child to have some marijuana... and, then brought the child to the hospital for treatment.  However... McBride then took the child away... putting the toddler into a "dangerous situation."  He left the hospital for about 30 minutes, and then returned.  McBride was arrested there on one count of endangering the welfare of a child. 

Fire damages stand-alone garage in Jamestown...
Fire has damaged an unattached garage on Jamestown's northside, the cause of which remains under investigation.  Fire Battalion Chief Brian Acterberg says crews were called to the scene at 21 Euclid Ave. shortly after 1 p.m. Thursday, and found flames showing from the roof, and, crews stretched two handlines to battle the blaze.  Acterberg says firefighters had the blaze under control in about 10 minutes.. and, completely out in about half-an-hour.  No one was inside the garage at the time the fire started, and no one was hurt.  An off-duty shift was called in to assist.

Jamestown man arrested for alleged hate crimes following incident with juvenile along the Chadakoin...
A city man has been arrested for hate crimes for allegedly harassing and assaulting a juvenile who was fishing along the Chadakoin River... and, the man believed he was an illegal immigrant.  Jamestown Police were called to the scene on North Main Street shortly after 5:30 p.m. Monday, and spoke to the victim, who said he was fishing by himself, when the man approached him and called him an "immigrant."  The victim said 30 year-old Christopher Conklin claimed he was a police officer... and, that he had a warrant and yelled at the victim to get on the ground.  The victim says Conklin continued yelling at him... and, he told a passerby that the victim was an immigrant.  The victim said the suspect charged him... and tackled him to the ground and yelled for him to stay there.  However... Conklin then allegedly got up and told the victim that he wanted to fight and got into a fighting stance.  The victim called 911 and the suspect continued to yell at him to get on the ground, and then charged and tackled the victim a second time... injuring him.  The victim dropped his cell phone and Conklin picked it up and threw it in the river when he saw the victim was calling police.  He then ran off before police arrived... but, the victim gave a description... and Conklin was later found on the northside.  He was arrested for third-degree robbery... third-degree assault... and, third-and fourth-degree criminal mischief -- each of those as hate crimes... and, first-degree criminal imprisonment and endangering the welfare of a child.  Conklin was jailed pending arraignment.

Two Jamestown brothers arrested during raid on drug and weapons charges...
Two city men have been arrested on drug and weapons possession charges following a raid Tuesday morning at an apartment on Jamestown's northside.  City police say members of the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force... and, the Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force... executed a search warrant at 212 Price St. about 10 a.m. with the help of the JPD SWAT Team.  After making entry... the SWAT Team found three people inside the residence... and detectives found 34-grams of fentanyl... $427 in cash... scales... cutting agents, and packaging materials.  They also found Alprazolam, a stolen rifle, and a shotgun.  Officers arrested two brothers... 36 year-old Juan and 35 year-old Francisco Gutierrez.  Juan faces two counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... one count of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... three counts of second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... and, one of fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property.  Francisco was charged with one count of fifth-degree criminal possession of stolen property... and one of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon for being a Felony in possession of a rifle.  Both were jailed pending arraignment. 

Jamestown man arrested on warrants after being found with switchblade knife and drugs...
A city man is accused of being in possession of illegal drugs... and, a switchblade knife during a street check on Jamestown's southside early Wednesday morning.  City police say they saw 40 year-old Tyler Perez inside the 7-Eleven store at 321 Hazeltine Ave. just after 4 a.m., and, knew there were active warrants for his arrest.  Police took Perez into custody... and, found him in possession of the knife... along with quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine.  Due to a previous conviction in New York... he was charged with third-degree criminal possession of a weapon... and, two counts seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Perez was jailed pending arraignment.

Borrello believes new state budget will be late...
It doesn't appear likely that there will be an on-time budget in New York state this year.  Those are the feelings of State Senator George Borrello with less than a month to go before the Apr. 1 deadline.  Borrello says he's hopeful a new plan will be crafted by Monday, April 1st... but, adds that's the day after Easter... and, that will make it very difficult to complete by then.  The Sunset Bay Republican says the biggest problem is that the spending plan includes policy measures... and he's part of a bi-partisan group working on legislation to end that practice.  He says he spent 10 years in county government and it was "all about numbers..." not policy.  At this point... Borrello says the leadership in both the Senate and Assembly are working on their "one-house" bills... which will then be negotiated with Governor Kathy Hochul.  However... he says there are still some significant disagreements over policy... education aid... and, providing New York city with another $2.4-billion to deal with the migrant crisis.  He made his comments for last weekend's "Community Spotlight" program on the six Media One Radio Group stations.
 

Four arrested in Jamestown for alleged major drug and weapons charges...
Four people -- two from Jamestown -- the other two from Cattaraugus County... have been arrested on drug and weapons possession charges following a traffic stop on the city's westside.  Jamestown police say officers saw a vehicle commit a traffic infraction in the area of West Sixth and Washington Sts. just after 12:30 Tuesday afternoon.  City police say the driver... 42 year-old Jamie Allen of Salamanca... was found in possession of 31.5-grams of methamphetamine... 5.4-grams of psilocybin mushrooms, a quantity of MDMA and suboxone.  One of the passengers... 39 year-old Kylene Hellreigel... was found with 27 grams of meth... 5.4 grams of the mushrooms, a quantity of MDMA and suboxone... and, a rifle she was not legally allowed to possess due to a prior felony conviction.  The other two passengers... 35 year-old Melissa Edington of Jamestown and 40 year-old John Newark of Little Valley... were found with 1.8 grams of meth...  5.4-grams of psilocybin mushrooms... and, quantities other drugs.  Edington was also found with a stun gun, while Newark was in possession of a rifle that he was illegally in possession of.  Allen and Hellriegal both face two counts each of third-and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and Hellriegal faces one count of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Edington faces one count of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... four counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of drugs... and one of third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  Newark faces one count of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, three counts of seventh-degree criminal possession of drugs... along with fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.  All four were jailed pending arraignment.

Allegany man arrested for resisting arrest... and, giving fake identity to Jamestown police...
A man from Cattaraugus County has been arrested in Jamestown as a fugitive from justice following a traffic stop in which he allegedly resisted officers... and, tried to assault them.  City police say a Gun-Involved Violence Enforcement Detail pulled over 33 year-old Kentrel Jackson of Allegany near the ROBO mini-mart at 817 North Main St. about 7:30 p.m. Monday for a traffic violation.  During the stop... officers say Jackson allegedly gave a false name and date of birth.  The name he provided showed warrants out of Rochester... and, officers moved to take him into custody.  However... he resisted and tried to assault the arresting officers and flee.  Jackson was then taken into custody... and, police determined his true identity.  He was found to also be formerly of Rochester.  During the incident... police say one of the officers was injured.  Jackson was taken to the city jail on charges including being a fugitive from justice from McKean County, Pennsylvania.  He's also charged with second-degree assault... resisting arrest... criminal impersonation... and, multiple traffic violations.  Jackson was held pending arraignment and an extradition hearing.

Schumer pushes for reimbursement to local health care providers in wake of last week's Change Healthcare cyberattack...
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer says he's pleased the Department of Health and Human Services is heeding his calls to accelerate payments to "hard hit" upstate New York health care providers in the wake of a recent cyberattack.  The New York Democrat says the "massive cyberattack" last week against Change Healthcare downed the huge network that reimburses hospitals and pharmacies from Medicare and insurance.  Schumer says this is not the first time HHS and CMS has done this.  He says that took place during the COVID-19 pandemic.  During his Zoom video conference with the media Tuesday... he also called on the FBI make this case the "highest priority..." and go after the hackers.  He says that -- right now -- Upstate New York healthcare providers are struggling to get paid, process insurance claims, with some seeing millions of dollars lost every day as result of this breach. 

Council to act on measure calling for increase in state AIM aid...
There's renewed effort statewide to get New York State to increase the amount of aid they receive in the annual state budget.  The Jamestown City Council will vote later this month on a resolution calling on Governor Kathy Hochul and the state legislature to increase the amount of Aid and Incentives to Municipalities -- or AIM payments to local governments.  The measure was approved by the council's Finance Committee Monday night.  Chairman Brent Sheldon says those payments have not increased the past 15 years.  Mayor Kim Ecklund says the New York State Conference of Mayor's is making a new push to get local municipalities to push for an increase.  The push to get more AIM funding from the state quieted somewhat during the five years that Jamestown received an additional $1-million in state funding due to the formula that was used to determine what local governments received. 

Westfield man arrested after DWI crash...
A Westfield man has been arrested for allegedly driving drunk when his car crashed on Plank Rd. in the town of Westfield Tuesday afternoon.  Sheriff's officers say they responded to the scene about 4 p.m., and, found 44 year-old Samuel Cettell... and, investigated.  Deputies say their investigation found that Cettell was operating the vehicle in an intoxicated state.  He was taken into custody on charges of DWI... DWI Per Se... and, failure to keep right.  Cettell was issued traffic tickets for Westfield Town Court at a later date.
 

City Council begins review of three new ordinances dealing with housing, rentals and public nuisance issues...
Three new ordinances that deal mainly with housing issues have been introduced by Jamestown's Department of Development.  The City Council's Housing Committee discussed the three ordinances at length with Development Director Crystal Surdyk... and, outlined those discussions with the full council.  Committee Chairman Bill Reynolds says the first establishes a Vacant Real Property Registration.  Reynolds says it's a "pretty cut and dry" proposal.  The second ordinance establishes a set of Rental Inspection policies... which Surdyk says she wants to get feedback from council members, residents, and landlords about.  She would like to see a full council vote on that next month because there are still some logistics they are working through.  The third ordinance would involve a set of "Public Nuisance policies..." which have been formulated based on the work of the city's recently hired Public Nuisance Officer.  Surdyk credited Kasie Foulk from her office for doing a lot of the work on the three ordinances.

Schmidt announces Dalton sentencing...
A Jamestown man has been sentenced to four years in state prison for violating terms of his probation after being found in possession of methampetamine during a traffic stop a year ago in the city.  Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt says 39 year-old Todd Dalton received the sentence... along with two years post-release supervision... from County Court Judge David Foley Monday.  Dalton was convicted after pleading guilty to fourth-degree attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance during the March, 2023 traffic stop.  He pleaded guilty to the charge back in January.  Schmidt says he was also on felony probation on a charge of third-degree attempted criminal possession of a controlled substance in August 2022.  He was sentenced as a non-violent, predicate felon due to having more than one conviction in 10 years.

Another day of possible record warmth in store for WNY...
Our unusually warm Winter is continuing for the first two days of this week... and, on Monday... a new record high temperature was set in the region.  The National Weather Service reported a 72-degree reading at 2 p.m. in Buffalo... smashing the old record of 63 set back in 1974.  Forecaster Jon Hitchcock in Buffalo said Monday that warm air from the south has made it's way into Western New York... and, much of the northeastern U.S.  Hitchcock said it was already in the mid-60s across the area late Monday morning.  The high in Dunkirk was actually the high temperature across Western New York.  It reached 76-degrees near the Lake Erie shoreline.  Hitchcock adds that we may see another record broken today... with highs right around 70.  Here at our Media One Radio Group studios... the high was 73 yesterday... and, we will get close to 70 today.  However... there is a slight chance of rain by the afternoon.  By Wednesday... highs will be around 50... which is still well above the normal high for this part of March.

City woman, Jail inmate from Dunkirk, arrested for promoting prison contraband...         
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for allegedly trying to smuggle illegal drugs to a Chautauqua County Jail inmate... who has also been arrested.  Sheriff's officers say the arrest of 43 year-old Tammra Topliffe... and, 30 year-old Preston Lawrence of Dunkirk... are part of a concerted effort to curb the influx of illegal substances into the jail.  Last Friday... deputies say corrections officers intercepted Topliffe during routine security at inmate visitation.  Acting on a tip... they kept surveillance on Topliffe while she was in the visitation area... and, saw her passing a cache of narcotics to Lawrence.  Deputies say they seized the contraband... Suboxone... a prescription medication which is a controlled narcotic... and, they say it represents a flagrant violation of jail regulations.  Topliffe is charged with first-degree promoting prison contraband... and fourth-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance.  Lawrence was also charged with first-degree promoting prison contraband... and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Both were arraigned and issued appearance tickets for Chautauqua Town Court at a later date.

Chamber presents it's "Salute to Finest" awards in Jamestown...
The Chamber of Commerce presented its ‘Jamestown Salute to the Finest’ awards last night at the Doubletree hotel downtown.  The Legacy Award went to Chautauqua Patrons Insurance.  Executive Vice President, Brian Willink, accepted the award on behalf of company Chief Executive Officer Mark Prechtl.  Willink says Chautauqua Patrons was established in 1877, and has provided many kinds of insurance to the Jamestown-area, and upstate New York.  Willink says they now have 250 independent agents across the region. The Service to Humanity Award went to Mike Roberts, President of Allied Alarm.  Roberts was humbled by the designation... and accepted it on behalf of the organizations he's been involved with.  Chautauqua Soap Company was named ‘Rising Business of the Year.’  ‘Ryan’s Phil and Cindy’s Lunch’ was honored as Restaurant of the Year.   

Closings announced for Chautauqua Lake Bridge rehabilitation project...
Work has been underway on the approximately $78-million Chautauqua Lake Bridge reconstruction project... but, some traffic changes began Monday.  Chautauqua County Public Facilities Director Tim Card confirms the state Department of Transportation has closed off Exit 10 at Long Point State Park from eastbound Interstate 86 to westbound Route 430 now until 6 a.m. next Saturday.  In addition... westbound I-86 will be closed between Exit 10 and Exit 9 from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. today through Friday.  Detours will be posted.

Western New York shatters record-high for Mar. 3 with 72 reading at Buffalo-Niagara Airport...
Our unusually warm Winter is continuing through the day Tuesday... with a new record high reached in Buffalo this afternoon at 72-degrees.  The old high was 63 set back in 1974.  That from Forecaster Jon Hitchcock with the National Weather Service in Buffalo... who says warm air from the south has made it's way into Western New York... and, much of the northeastern U-S.  At 11 this morning... temperatures were already in the mid-60s.  It'll also be mild during the overnight.  Hitchcock adds that we may see another record broken tomorrow.  However... Hitchcock says that one's a little higher... and, may not be attainable.  Our high in the Jamestown-area is expected to reach close to 70 Tuesday... with a slight chance of rain in the afternoon.  By Wednesday... highs will be around 50... which is still well above normal for this time of year.  

Two arrested at Chautauqua County Jail after woman allegedly tries to pass suboxone to inmate...         
A Jamestown woman has been arrested for allegedly trying to smuggle illegal drugs to a Chautauqua County Jail inmate... who has also been arrested.  Sheriff's officers say the arrest of 43 year-old Tammra Topliffe... and, 30 year-old Preston Lawrence of Dunkirk... are part of a concerted effort to curb the influx of illegal substances into the jail.  Last Friday... deputies say corrections officers intercepted Topliffe during routine security at inmate visitation.  Acting on a tip, officers kept surveillance on Topliffe while she was in the visitation area... and, were able to observe her passing a cache of narcotics to Lawrence.  Deputies say they seized the contraband... Suboxone... a prescription medication which is a controlled narcotic... and, they say it represents a flagrant violation of regulations governing the jail.  Topliffe is charged with first-degree promoting prison contraband... and fourth-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance.  Lawrence was also charged with first-degree promoting prison contraband... and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance.  Both were arraigned and issued appearance tickets for Chautauqua Town Court.

Trio of men arrested on drug charges following vehicle pursuit and traffic stop in Jamestown...
Three men were found with quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl during a traffic stop early last Saturday morning on Jamestown's northside.  City police say they attempted to pull over the car... driven by Jamie Warner... at the intersection of Jefferson and West Seventh Streets shortly before 2 a.m.  However... officers say Warner did not comply before finally stopping the car on Washington Street near West 10th.  Police say their investigation turned up the quantities of meth and fentanyl.  They say Warner has been charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and second-degree criminally using drug paraphernalia... along with several traffic violations.  Police add that one passenger, Bryan Knapp, has been charged with third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree criminally using Drug Paraphernalia.  A second passenger... Willie Graham... is charged with third-and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... two counts of second-degree criminally Using drug paraphernalia... and, tampering with physical evidence.  All three were jailed pending arraignment.

Teen sentenced for fatal shooting in Shooting in Sinclairville in July of 2022...
A teenager who fatally shot a Cassadaga man in July 2022 has been sentenced as an adult last Friday in Chautauqua County Court.  That from District Attorney Jason Schmidt...  who says Judge David Foley sentenced 17-year-old Andreas Lopez to 10 years in state prison after he pleaded guilty last January to a Felony count of first-degree manslaughter.  Schmidt says the incident that led to the death of 18-year-old Joseph Misciagno stemmed from a fight in the village of Sinclairville.  The D.A. says he is not satisfied with the sentence, noting that he was advocating for Lopez to serve 20 years behind bars, along with five years post-release supervision.  He says he is pleased that Judge Foley did not grant Lopez youthful offender status, which would have resulted in a lighter sentence.

Traffic changes reported with work on Chautauqua Lake Bridge reconstruction well underway...
Work has been underway on the approximately $78-million Chautauqua Lake Bridge reconstruction project... but, some traffic changes began Monday.  Chautauqua County Public Facilities Director Tim Card confirms the state Department of Transportation has closed off Exit 10 at Long Point State Park from eastbound Interstate 86 to westbound Route 430 now until 6 a.m. next Saturday.  In addition... westbound I-86 will be closed between Exit 10 and Exit 9 from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. beginning Tuesday through Friday.  Detours will be posted.  Also... I-86 traffic... both westbound and eastbound directions will be closed between Exit 9 and 11 from 9 p.m. Friday, Mar. 8... until 8 a.m. Saturday, Mar. 9.   

Martz-Kohl Observatory board member urges resident to get ISO rated Eclipse Glasses...
People are already getting their special sunglasses for next month's Total Solar Eclipse.  But... a long-time board member of the Martz-Kohl Observatory in Frewsburg says watch for scams.  Former Observatory Board President Gary Nelson is urging residents to make sure they get the proper glasses to view the Apr. 8 phenomenon.  Nelson says there are already eclipse eyeware "scams" out there... but, the observatory does have some of the approved ones available for sale.  The eclipse on Mon., Apr. 8, can be viewed from various places in the region... witn the time for the Total Solar Eclipse coming between 3:15 p.m. and 3:20 p.m. that day.

Five arrested in Jamestown during Thursday morning drug bust...
Five people from Jamestown have been arrested during a drug raid inside an apartment on the city's southside Thursday morning.  City police say members of the Jamestown Metro Drug Task Force and Southern Tier Regional Drug Task Force executed a search warrant on the lower apartment at 47 Charles St. about 10 a.m., and, found seven people inside.  Once investigators secured the location... they found 33.4 grams of cocaine... a small quantity of Oxycodone pills... a small quantity of Methamphetamine... $478 in cash, scales and packaging used in the distribution of narcotics.  Police arrested 44 year-old Sandra Pavlock... 44 year-old Larry Hicks... 25 year-old Larissa Pavlock... 21 year-old Robin Hadley... and, 20 year-old Dontrel Buchanon... all residents of the apartment.  Pavlock is charged with is charged with two counts each of third and seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and one count each of second-degree criminally using Drug Paraphernalia... and, third-degree criminal nuisance.  Hicks is charged with one count each of seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance... and, second-degree criminal nuisance.  Larissa Pavlock, Hadley and Buchanon are each charged with second-degree criminal nuisance.  All three were jailed pending arraignment. 

Hochul signs mew Congressional District maps for New York state, but, process continues to draw controversy...
The long-running debate about redrawing New York’s congressional maps is over... as Governor Kathy Hochul has signed the new maps drawn by Democrats in the Legislature into law.  This comes after an independent commission’s maps were rejected by the Democratic majority in the legislature as being "too similar to the 2022 maps..." which they say heavily favored Republicans.  That sent the process back to "square one" after the state Supreme Court ordered that new maps be drawn last year.  But... Senior Fellow Jeffrey Wice with New York Law School’s Census and Redistricting Institute says the state’s redistricting process was designed to fail because it was poorly conceived, and has poor wording to it.  Wice adds the amendment was specifically designed to retain the then-Republican majority in the state Senate.  Approval of the most recent maps ends New York’s redistricting debate – at least for now.  But... Wice thinks now is the time for lawmakers to work on making the redistricting process more transparent – with more public input, and perhaps a new amendment to the state Constitution.

Slagle to leave County Attorney's post in mid-March...
Chautauqua County is in search of a new County Attorney with the resignation of Jamestown's Patrick Slagle... effective next March 13th.  County Executive P.J. Wendel said in a press release late Thursday that Slagle is taking a new position with the New York State Court System.  Wendel says Slagle has been County Attorney since being appointed in October of 2022... and, was also First Assistant County Attorney prior to that.  Before holding that positiion... he says Slagle dedicated his legal expertise as an Assistant Social Services Attorney with the Chautauqua County Department of Health and Human Services.  During his time as County Attorney... Wendel says Slagle has been involved in representing the county in various legal proceedings.  Wendel adds his responsibilities also included overseeing the operations of the County Law Department and providing legal counsel to the County Executive, County Legislature, and various County Departments and agencies.  Slagle has also been a long-time member of the Jamestown School Board.

Cummins' Engine launches next generation low emissions engine adaptable to alternative fuels to be produced in Jamestown...
The Cummins' Engine Company is launching production of it's most efficient, heavy-duty diesel engine line ever... and, it's compliant with federal emissions standards set to begin in 2027.  Officials with the Columbus, Indiana truck and bus engine maker held a press conference Thursday afternoon to announce the next generation -- "X15 HELM" 15-liter engine --  that can use most kinds of alternative fuel.  Cummins officials say the engines will be produced at their Jamestown, and North Carolina plants.  Vice-President and General Manager for Global On-Highway, Jane Beamon, says it'll be fueled primarily with nature gas to begin with.  Cummins' Engine Business President, Brett Merritt, says the Jamestown Engine Plant will be a key player in developing the new technology... which can run on fuels ranging from natural gas to hydrogen.  Merritt says the idea is also to make an engine that meets their customer's efficiency and cost needs.  He says they needed a "base platform" to start with.  Officials say the new engine will feature improved greenhouse gas and fuel efficiency benefits while retaining the same ratings of the current X15 model.  A more than $450-million expansion project for producing the new enginer is underway at the Jamestown Engine Plant.

Man arrested for pulling knife and threatening another person during argument...
A 50 year-old man has been arrested for allegedly pulling a knife on anther person after they got into an argument in the parking lot of a Falconer hotel Wednesday morning.  Ellicott Town Police say they were called to the Budget Inn at the four-corners just after 8 a.m. on a report of a person "waving a knife around."  Officer say they arrested Luis Lugo for getting into the argument and taking the knife out of his pocket.  Lugo was arrested for third-degree menacing... and, was issued an appearance ticket for Ellicott Town Court.
 

County Legislature approves pay raises for four elected officials...
The Chautauqua County Legislature has approved four local laws increasing the salaries of most elected officials.  Most of the debate over base salary hikes for the county executive, county clerk, and the sheriff centered around the fact that... since 2018... each of them has received a year consumer price index pay increase.  Jamestown Democrat Fred Larson -- in fact -- questioned the need for a Salary Review Commission to make recommendations.  Larson says the increases of nearly six-years ago, and the cost-of-living increases... "should be adequate."  However... with just a couple of exceptions... base increases for those three positions were approved by the Republican majority on the legislature.  Audit and Control Committee Chairman Dan Pavlock praised the work of the commission... which hadn't met in recent years -- in large part due to the pandemic.  He says this puts the salaries where they should be.  The increase for both the county executive and the sheriff were approved 13-6... and the clerk's increase was adopted, 14-5.  Lawmakers also approved legislator base pay increases from 9,000 to $14,000 a year.

Erie teen killed in crash near Panama identified...
An Erie, Pa. teenager was killed earlier this week in a single-car accident on the Panama-Stedman Road in the town of Harmony.  State Police in Jamestown were called to the scene about 4 p.m. Monday... and, found that the late model sedan was northbound when it went off the roadway... and, struck multiple trees.  Troopers say the passenger in the car... identified as 18 year-old Abdulnaser Al Hamwi.. was pronounced dead at the scene.  They say the driver... 20 year-old Alaa Mohammad Al Zoubi -- also of Erie -- was flown to UPMC Hamot Medical Center in Erie for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.  The investigation is continuing.

First Assistant D.A. excited to get GOP endorsement to run for 150th District Assembly seat...
A relative newcomer to Chautauqua County politics says he's pleased to have received the county Republican Committee's endorsement to run for the New York State Assembly.  Fredonia's Andrew Molitor got the nod earlier this week over former Fredonia Mayor Doug Essek to run for the seat being vacated a year's end by long-time Assemblyman Andy Goodell.  Molitor says he's honored and excited to get the committee's backing.  He says they're good people who "work very hard" to nominate people who care about the issues they do.  Molitor says he's always had an interest in policy matters... and, says a lot of those policies affect New Yorker's on a day-to-day basis.  The county's current First Assistant District Attorney says he's ready to represent everyone in Albany.  Molitor will be opposing Fredonia Democrat Michael Bobseine for the position this Fall.  Molitor is married and has five children. 

Jamestown man arrested for domestic violence incident...
A city man is accused of entering a home illegally... and, assaulting another person during a domestic incident on Jamestown's northside.  City police were called to the location shortly before 2 a.m. Tuesday... and, spoke with the victim involved.  Officers say the victim told them that 41 year-old Demaio McBride was able to get into the home... and assaulted and choked them in front of a child under the age of 17.  Police arrested McBride for first-degree burglary... third-degree assault... criminal obstruction of breathing... and, endangering the welfare of a child.  He was jailed pending arraignment.

Rare Disease Day being commemorated in Jamestown...
Jamestown’s City Hall and the Washington Street Bridge will be bathed in purple, blue, green and pink light tonight… in honor of ‘Rare Disease Day.’   Joan Eppehemier of Jamestown says rare diseases really aren’t that rare.  Eppeheimer says research has found that 1 in 10 Americans now have one "rare disease."  In the U.S., a disease is considered ‘rare’ if fewer than 200,000 people have it.  There are 7,000 known rare diseases.  One of them is Hunter’s Syndrome, where people lack an enzyme that removes cell waste from the body.  Joan’s husband Wayne, a retired pastor, has Hunter’s Syndrome.  He says he's "very grateful to God for each and every day" because people with the disease usually don't live as long as he has.  The Eppeheimers believe it’s important to raise awareness on Feb. 29 because the diagnosis and treatment of rare diseases can be extremely difficult to find.  More information is available by looking up NORD, the National Organization for Rare Disorders.

Two women arrested in city for drug possession and forged license plate...
Two women have been arrested in Jamestown on drug and forgery charges after the car they were in was stopped for a traffic violation this past Monday night.  City police say members of their Violence Interdiction Unit conducted the stop in the area Newton Aven. and Kipp St. just after 10 p.m., and identified the occupants as 46 year-old May Stilson... and, 44 year-old Shamori Houston.  Officers say they spotted drug paraphernalia in plain view in the vehicle... and, conducted a search.  They allegedly fuond a quantity of fentanyl in the vehicle.  Police add they also found that the vehicle had a forged North Carolina license plate on it.  Both Stilson and Houston were arrested... and, taken to the city jail on charges of second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument... and, seventh-degree criminal possession of a controlled susbtance.