Community Spotlight - Media One Radio Group (WWSE | WJTN | WHUG | WKSN | WQFX | WKZA)

Community Spotlight

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Community Spotlight | Local Public Affairs Radio Program

By Terry Frank

The Community Spotlight Local Public Affairs Program airs on all six of the Media One Radio Group radio stations. The Chautauqua County Executive appears the first week of each month and City of Jamestown Mayor appears the second week of each month. The other weeks of the month feature a variety of community leaders and special guests. The program airs on the following stations at the following times: WJTN - Saturday at 8:45 A.M. | WWSE - Sunday at 7:00 A.M. | WHUG & WKSN - Sunday at 6:30 A.M. | WQFX - Sunday at 5:30 A.M. | WKZA - Sunday at 6:00 A.M..

Community Spotlight for June 24-July 1, 2019

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation Executive Director Tory Irgang joins our Terry Frank this week to look back on the #GiveBigCHQ day of on-line giving... which raised about $189-thousand dollars for local not-for-profit organizations, and other activities, including presentation of the Axel W. Carlson Unsung Hero Award. We also discuss what scholarships are available to local students, namely Seniors who are now graduating from high school, and looking to go onto college, or technical school.

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Community Spotlight for January 17-24, 2021

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

January 17th, 2021 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist on a number of topics, including the ongoing increase in the number of COVID-19 cases in the city. He emphasized the need for people to avoid large gatherings, wear a mask, and socially distance from people outside your family. He did note that with a vaccine being rolled out, there is optimism... and, he says there will likely be vaccination points in the city, once there's more supply. We also talk about the city's Police Reform plan, which is being developed by the City Council's Public Safety Committee, and Jamestown Police. He says they've just wrapped up several stakeholder group sessions, and all that information is being put together into a final proposal for the community to look at. Sundquist says they expect to be completed before the April 1st deadline. He says having more police on the streets is a common theme. With the Biden Administration taking office this Wednesday, Sundquist speaks optimistically about the possibility of local, and state aid being included in a new COVID-19 Stimulus bill.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 11-18, 2021

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

January 12th, 2021 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel about a number of topics... including last Wednesday's storming of the Capitol, and rioting in Washington, D.C. Wendel says he was "appalled" by what he saw, and says historicially there had not been anything like it since the British burned down the capitol building in 1814. He adds, though, that this is not like 1775-76 when we were trying to break away from a tyrannical empire. We also discuss the most recent COVID-19 numbers, and, the fact they are spiking. Wendel says we are going in the wrong direction, and says people need to make sure to wear masks in public, socially distance, and avoid large gatherings. Wendel says, while the vaccine is here, the rollout and distribution has been spotty. He adds that part of the problem is having enough qualified people to administer the two doses people need to be fully immunized.

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Community Spotlight for Jan. 3-10, 2021

2020 Year in Review

January 3rd, 2021 12:00am | Duration: 15:05

This week, our Terry Frank and Noel Blackhall take a look back on the top stories of the past year. 2020 started on an optimistic note with the swearing in of a new, Interim Chautauqua County Executive, P.J. Wendel, and new Jamestown Mayor, Eddie Sundquist. However, by early March, it became evident that the new coronavirus, COVID-19, was taking hold in the country in both New York City, and Washington State. States of Emergency were put in place in NYS and the county. A number of local events and activities, including the County Fair, Babe Ruth World Series, and the Gerry Rodeo, had to be cancelled. To date, Chautauqua County has exceeded 3,700 confirmed cases, and 32 deaths from the virus. In late November, there was great news with new vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna in New York state, and the vaccines are being distributed at UPMC Chautauqua, the Heritage Ministries nursing homes and others. We also look back on economic development, and notable people who passed away in 2020.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 28-Jan. 3, 2020-21

Ellicott Town Supervisor Patrick McLaughlin

December 28th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

In our final program of 2020, our Terry Frank speaks with Ellicott Town Supervisor Patrick McLaughlin about how the town has been faring during the year -- especially with COVID-19. McLaughlin says they've been able to continue the needed services for town residents with little or no interruption. However... he says finances are tight. He adds town residents have also been dealing with the uptick in cases, as demonstrated by the spikes reported in recent days in the Jamestown 14701 zip code. McLaughlin says that includes West Ellicott, where the late Summer outbreak at Tanglewood Manor and Memory Garden senior and assisted-living facilities occured. We also talk development with Honest John's looking to open a second location on East Fairmount Avenue in West Ellicott, and what's happening on Fluvanna Avenue just outside the city of Jamestown.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 20-27, 2020

Deputy Dir. of Housing and Community Development, Amanda Straight of COI

December 20th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Our Terry Frank talks this week with the point-person at Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc., Amanda Straight. She is the Deputy Director of Housing and Community Development at COI. Straight says she's been with COI for eight years, and is in her fifth position before transitioning to housing and working with the homeless. She says it's "more of a problem" than most people think. Straight says most homeless here are out during the day, but, have to find a place to stay at night. For the past year, Straight says 777 people sought homeless assistance last year. However, she says there is a potential problem at the end of the month if a moratorium on evictions is not continued. Straight says there are a number of local shelters in Chautauqua County... the largest being the UCAN Mission in Jamestown, which is a men's homeless shelter.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 13-20, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

December 13th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist about his two vetoes in the city's 2021 budget. The first would restore the City Parks and Recreation Coordinator's position to the budget at a cost of just under 54,000 dollars. The second would add that amount of money to the amount of money the city would use from it's undesignated fund balance to balance the 34.8-million dollar spending plan. However... lawmakers will need a 2/3rds majority to override the veto at this Monday night's Special City Council Meeting. That would mean six of the nine members would have to approve the overrides. The amendment furloughing the position was approved Nov. 30 by an 8-1 vote. We also discuss the decision by City Arborist Dan Stone to take down 43 of the remaining 46 "Cathedral Oak" trees on West Third St. due to their age and root deterioration. We also look back on Sundquist's first year in office after being elected in November 2019 to replace the retiring Sam Teresi.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 7-14, 2020

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

December 7th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank discusses a number of topics, mainly COVID-19 related, with Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel. We ask him about the county's change in reporting COVID-19 cases, tests, hospitalizations, ete. Wendel explains is provides as much information as the daily updates they had been doing, and lessens the pressure on staff in the Department of Health and Human Services Dept. We also discuss the county's low infection rate, which he says is a credit to local businesses and individuals. We also discuss vaccine distribution, but, Wendel says there has been no further information given, other than there will be 174,000 doses from the initial distribution. We also discuss the county's move to acquire the Jamestown Hub for the Chautauqua Area Transit System's bus service. Wendel says the city had been renting the location... which is across the street on East Third St. from City Hall.

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Community Spotlight for Dec. 2-9, 2020

Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce Pres. and CEO Todd Tranum

December 3rd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 15:05

Due to technical issues earlier in the week, we were unable to immediately upload this past weekend's program. Our Terry Frank talks about a number of business matters with county Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer Todd Tranum. We discuss the start of their new website, call "ShopLocalCHQ..." which ties in more than 50 county businesses, and offers people the chance to do their holiday -- and other shopping -- done on-line. We also talk about the need for another round of COVID-19 stimulus funding because many businesses, and area residents, are struggling during this holiday time period.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 22-29, 2020

Chautauqua County COVID-19 Virtual Town Hall

November 22nd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 15:00

With no guest scheduled this week, we present comments from members of Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel's COVID-19 Response Team, including Sheriff Jim Quattrone, Health Department Epidemiologist Breeanne Agett, Public Health Director Christine Schuyler, Public Health Physician Dr. Robert Berke, and other Physician Dr. Brian Walters. They discuss a number of areas, from enforcement of current restrictions, and those being imposed for Thanksgiving Day holiday gatherings, county COVID-19 numbers, isolation and quarantine facts, and the fact that two vaccines are now in the process of getting FDA approval.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 15-22, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

November 15th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 15:00

Our Terry Frank speaks with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist this week about a number of matters, including Monday (11/16) night's public hearing on the proposed 2021 budget. The 34.8-million dollar spending plan includes a slight tax rate decrease. However, it may not include total elimination of free parking. Sundquist outlined his compromise measure that would re-install meters in the current free zones. However, all metered parking spots would have the first 20-minutes be free, and the motorist would pay 1.00 an hour after that. We also discuss the city's Christmas Tree being in place on Tracy Plaza, and a new "Downtown Holiday Crusin" the city will be holding with the Jamestown Renaissance Corp., and others, instead of the annual Christmas Parade and Holiday Celebration. This would be a "reverse" parade with people in their cars driving east on Third Street to Tracy Plaza to see the lighted Christmas Tree, and Santa. Businesses would be able to decorate a parking space on the street for residents and their children to see. The event will be held on Friday, Dec. 4th from 6 to 7:30 pm. We also give the latest on the search for a new Police Chief/Director of Public Safety.

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WJTN News Headlines for Nov. 8-15, 2020

Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

November 8th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel... who loses the "interim" moniker after winning last Tuesday's election. Wendel says he's both excited and humbled by the results, and thanked county voters for coming out in such large numbers. He also discusses his decision to sign the 2021 County budget, which includes a 4.6-percent tax increase, which amounts to a 5-cent per 1,000 full value rate increase. He says the legislature wanted to be "more cautious" than he was -- given the on-going COVID situation. We also discuss the loans doled out to nearly 30 businesses from the 10.5-million dollar CARES Act loan funds. More than half of that has been given to local businesses. We also discuss the idea of a three-state "wine, craft beer and distillery" trail from Northeast Ohio to the Finger Lakes.

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Community Spotlight for Nov. 5-12, 2020

Preview of 23rd Congressional District Race

November 6th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our apologies that, due to technical issues, we were unable to provide the past weekend's program. However, we do have it now. Our Terry Frank takes a look at the two candidates vying for the 23rd Congressional District seat in the waning days of the campaign. Incumbant Republican Tom Reed and Democratic Challenger Tracy Mitrano criss-crossed the district over the final few days before Election Day on Nov. 3. Both candidates tout their record, and, the tone of the campaign, which has gotten nasty at times. Reed claims Mitrano is an extreme left-wing candidate who wants to defund police, while Mitrano says Reed has run nothing but a smear campaign.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 25-Nov. 1, 2020

Incumbant Chautauqua Co. District Attorney Patrick Swanson

October 25th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank concludes Media One's programs focusing on the candidates for local and regional office in Chautauqua County and Jamestown this week. He talks with Democrat Patrick Swanson, the incumbant District Attorney. Swanson discusses his background, and defends his record against criticism by Republican challenger, Jason Schmidt. Schmidt has attacked Swanson for having a 17.4-percent success rate of convicting accused Felons last year. Swanson says his office's overall conviction rate remains better than the statewide average, and, has done so having to navigate new and changing laws -- especially bail reform this year. Swanson also says his very understaffed office has been able to do that with only 12-and-a-half staffers. He also touted having the New York State Police Trooper union's endorsement in his re-election bid.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 19-26, 2020

Republican County District Attorney candidate Jason Schmidt

October 19th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

Our Terry Frank begins a two-part look at the candidates for Chautauqua County District Attorney with an interview of Republican challenger Jason Schmidt. It's a rematch of four-years ago when Schmidt ran against Democrat Patrick Swanson for the seat. Schmidt says most recent statistics show the county has only a 17.4-percent conviction rate on Felony cases. He also rebutts Swanson's argument that the county's conviction rate is better than most others in New York state. Even though the county D-A's office has a staff of less than half the state average, Schmidt says the county is not doing as well as it should be. Schmidt has been endorsed by the Dunkirk Police Officers organization in his run for D-A.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 11-18, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

October 11th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

Our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist about his proposed 2021 budget... which totals 34.8-million dollars, and includes a slight tax decrease. Sundquist says, though, that it was an "extremely challenging" spending plan to put together. However... he believes people will be pleased with the 70,000 tax levy decrease, and 17-cent per 1,000 dollar cut to the tax rate. City Council will soon begin discussing the proposal. We also discuss the city's Parking Ticket Amnesty Program, which has already brought in a large number of donations of canned goods, and school supplies for local agencies and schools. We also discuss pending changes to Freedom of Information applications, and a second downtown restaurant, Labrynth Press Co. and Brazil, applying for a Parklet for outdoor dining.

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Community Spotlight for Oct. 3-10, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

October 4th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

Interim County Executive P-J Wendel joins our Terry Frank again this week... this time in his official capacity. We mainly talk about his 2021 budget proposal... which includes about a 3-percent increase in the tax levy, but, has a 5-cent per 1,000 dollar reduction in the tax rate to 8.41. Wendel says actions his administration took earlier this year due to the COVID-19 Pandemic have helped them in getting this budget in place. While it exceeds the state's 2-percent property tax levy, it does not use any undesignated fund balance. We also discuss the need for people to complete the Census, as Monday is the deadline. Wendel also says the county has already received a lot of interest in the 10.5-million dollar CARES Act funding to help small businesses locally that have been hurt by the COVID-19 shut-downs.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 27-Oct. 3, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

September 28th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

This week, we discuss the race for Chautauqua County Executive with Interim Executive P-J Wendel, who has been in the seat since Jan. 1 of this year. Wendel says 2020 has been a huge challenge, but, says he's made the best of a difficult situation. He further explained the county's response to the COVID-19 Pandemic, which has seen significant upticks since the beginning of September. He says the outbreaks at both Fieldbrook Foods in Dunkirk, and the SUNY College at Fredonia, have now been pretty much contained. He says the county was also able to get New York State to keep Rapid Testing machines in the county to deal with hot-spots. We also discuss economic development, which the Lakewood Republican feels will be aided by the recent announcement of 10.5-million dollars from the federal CARES Act to help local businesses that have been heavily-impacted by COVID-related shut-downs. We heard from his Democratic challenger, Richard Morrisroe on last week's show.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 19-27, 2020

Democratic candidate for Chautauqua Co. Exec. Rich Morrisroe

September 19th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:45

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with the Democratic challenger in the race for Chautauqua County Executive, Rich Morrisroe of Dunkirk. Morrisroe has been Dunkirk City Attorney for the past three years, and has worked in a variety of capacities during his life. He says the county should have been quicker in it's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, especially regarding the announcement of the outbreak at Fieldbrook Foods. Morrisroe says he and his family came to the north county area a few years ago from Buffalo. He says he wants to work to improve economic opportunities here, and, bring back more young adults, and attract new residents. He says the move to attract an Amazon warehouse is a positive, but, questions what kind of incentives it may take, and how many real jobs will be created versus robots. We'll hear from current interim Executive, Republican P.J. Wendel, next weekend.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 13-20, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

September 13th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist joins our Terry Frank this week to discuss a number of topics, including the announcement that 10.5-million dollars in federal CARES Act funding it coming to Chautauqua County from the U-S Economic Development Administration to help small businesses struggling in the COVID-19 pandemic. Sundquist also revealed that the city was receiving another 300,000 dollars in CARES Act funding from HUD to do more for both small businesses and renters, in addition to the 705,000 the city received earlier in the pandemic. We also discuss contract negotiations, the latest project in the city's illumination program, and that city council will hold it's work session this Monday night in the lobby of City Hall to allow social distancing, but, the public is not invited to attend. It will be streamed on-line.

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Community Spotlight for Sept. 7-14, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

September 7th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:30

Our Terry Frank gets an update from Interim County Exec. P-J Wendel on the COVID-19 numbers from the two clusters of cases in the North County. Wendel says the numbers have eased up at both Fieldbrook Foods in Dunkirk, and the SUNY College at Fredonia. He says the number of actual employees at Fieldbrook testing positive was 58 by the weekend, with 21 "Close Contact" cases. At SUNY Fredonia, the cases over the weekend increased 56. Wendel also says the county has been successful in having four of the "Rapid Testing" machines left by the state here during the outbreaks... along with up to 1,000 test kits. We also discuss the tentative county budget, which Wendel says is done. He says they still have some unknowns to work on, but, believes people will be happy with what he and his administration has been able to craft. The spending plan is due by Sept. 25th, and the County Legislature meets on Wed., Sept. 23rd, which is the likely date the budget will be presented.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 30-Sept. 5, 2020

Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy Exec. Dir. John Jablonski, and Board Pres. Rebecca Nystrom

August 30th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 12:35

Our Terry Frank high-light's the 30th anniversary of the Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy with Executive Director John Jablonski, and Board President Rebecca Nystrom. They discuss the beginnings of the organization, which a group of people began work on after seeing the rise of invasive weed growth, and other issues stemming from run-off into the lake. They say the conservancy first started with an emphasis on Chautauqua Lake, but, has also done work to preserve natural shorelines along Cassadaga, and Findley Lakes. The conservancy uses grants to acquire available land to act as natural buffers to keep sediment from getting into the lakes. The Conservancy's 30th anniversary program was held last Thursday night via Zoom conferencing.

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Community Spotlight for Aug, 23-30, 2020

Chautauqua County Sheriff Jim Quattrone

August 23rd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

Our Terry Frank speaks with Chautauqua County Sheriff Jim Quattrone this week about a number of topics and issues, including the need for local police and sheriff's departments to put a reinventing, and police reform plan with community input. Quattrone says they've been able to meet with local entities and discuss that. He believes they will have a plan by next April, as ordered by New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo. We also discuss the number of calls received this year, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Quattrone says they've seen definate increases in mental health, domestic violence, and drug overdose calls. He adds all five lakes in the county have been very busy this Summer. We also discuss bail reform impacts, and county jail population, which is down drastically with it.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 16-23, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

August 16th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank discusses a number of topics with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist, who discusses his first half-year in office, and that it's been nothing like he expected, due mainly to COVID-19. However... he says he enjoys the challenge. We also discuss budget discussions, and how soon city lawmakers may have to look at a second-phase of cuts. Sundquist says they are waiting for the state to tell how much they'll be getting in municipal aid first. He also discusses the first business to take advantage of the new Food Truck Pilot Program in the downtown-area, along with the process of getting a new Police Chief/Director of Public Safety in place, as well as a new Human Rights Commission.

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Community Spotlight for Aug. 9-16, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

August 9th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank gets updates on Chautauqua County's situation during the COVID-19 Pandemic, and the frustration over lack of state guidance for reopening gyms, fitness centers, and bowling alleys. Interim County Executive P-J Wendel says many of those places are struggling right now -- and some may be on the verge of closing -- because they've had no income since mid or late March. We also discuss where the county is after about 150 workers took voluntary furlough to save the county about 1-million dollars. We also discuss the 2021 budget, which Wendel and his finance team is working on, and will present in late September. We also discuss changes in county government with the resignation of Human Resources Director Jessica Wisniewski and retirement of Director of Environmental Health Services, Mark Stow. Wisniewski is being replaced by Jean Riley. Stow, who is leaving after 22 years with the county, is being replaced by Water Specialist, Bill Boria.

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Community Spotlight for Aug.2-9, 2020

State Senator George Borrello

August 2nd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with 57th State Senator George Borrello about his first six months officially being on the job, and the outcomes of the most recent State Legislative session. He says the Democratic majorities in both the Senate and Assembly approved a number of left-leaning measure, and while there was some amending of the bail reform measure approved last year, he says it doesn't go nearly far enough. Borrello also discusses a letter he sent Gov. Andrew Cuomo, calling on his to rescind his special order that stopped the Prompt Payment Law for services the state contracts with for services from local non-profits and not-for-profit organizations. He also talks about his re-election campaign that'll get fully underway next month.

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Community Spotlight for July 24-26, 2020

Jamestown Public Schools Superintendent Kevin Whitaker

July 27th, 2020 06:09am | Duration: 14:55

This week, Noel Blackhall discusses plans and actions with Dr. Kevin Whitaker in regards to the nickname and imagery associated with the Jamestown High School "Red Raiders". Whitaker tells us that the district is in the information-gathering phase to collect responses from both sides of the argument, while also trying to balance a plan for re-opening schools in the Fall.

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Community Spotlight for July 19-26, 2020

Democratic 150th Assembly District candidate Christina Cardinale

July 19th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 15:10

This week, Terry Frank speaks with the Democratic challenger for the 150th District State Assembly seat, Christina Cardinale of Jamestown about her candidacy. She says she is running because she's been helping people in her line of work, and would like to represent them in Albany. She also feels that incumbant Republican Andy Goodell has not been doing his job representing people, and helping businesses to stay open during the COVID-19 pandemic the way he should. She supports most of the recent police reforms approved in Albany, but, says she does have problems with bail reform measures approved by the legislature last year, and feels judges should have more discretion on keeping certain suspects in jail. She also gives Gov. Andrew Cuomo mixed reviews on how he's handled the pandemic.

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Community Spotlight for July 12-19, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

July 12th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:57

This week, our Terry Frank interviews Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist on a variety of issues, including his decision to name Lt. Timothy Jackson to be Acting Police Chief with the retirement of Harry Snellings. Snellings' last day was last Friday. We also discuss safety concerns given the recent increase in violent crime in a number of spots across the county. However.. a recent stretch of two stabbings and a shooting incident, Sundquist says, appear to have been caused by a number of factors, and arrests have been made in each. The search for a new permanent chief will begin shortly. We also discuss City Council looking this Monday night at a new pilot program for food trucks to be allowed in the downtown area. It would be part of ordinances that allow outdoor dining to help local restaurants deal with indoor seating restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Community Spotlight for July 5-12, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

July 5th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

Our Terry Frank speaks with Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel on three main topics... the first being the county moving into Phase-Four of "NY Forward." While that's good, Wendel says not everything has reopened from the COVID-19 shut-down. He says malls, gyms, and some other places are still not opened yet... and, he says he has written Gov. Andrew Cuomo about possibly having a Phase-Five and even Six to give people goals to strive for. He also says he's open to looking at the possibility of opting the county back out of "non-aerial" fireworks sales leading up to the Fourth of July. He says he's aware of the recent increase in complaints and other issues surrounding fireworks that are mostly brought in from Pennsylvania. We also discuss the county budget, and work beginning on that with department heads for 2021.

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Community Spotlight for June 28-July 4, 2020

Democratic Congressional candidate Tracy Mitrano

June 28th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:40

Our Terry Frank has parts of a recent inteview with Democratic Congressional candidate Tracy Mitrano of Penn Yan. Mitrano, who won a five-way primary to face incumbant 23rd District Republican Tom Reed two years ago, was able to avoid a primary this time around, and is thankful for that. She says it's allowed her to focus on the general campaign, and she has 250,000 in the bank to run against Reed, compared to the 8,000 she had to start with in 2018. Mitrano feels the Democratic ticket is strong from top for bottom. She also reiterated her support of the region's Black Lives Matter movement, has attended some -- including the recent one in Jamestown. As for the rioting and vandalism that has occured in some places, she says those committing criminal acts needed to be arrested and punished. She adds that she has seen nothing like that from protesters in the 23rd District.

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Community Spotlight for June 21-28, 2020

State Assemblyman Andy Goodell

June 21st, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank speaks with New York state Assemblyman Andy Goodell about a number of state issues... including the most recent extension of Gov. Andrew Cuomo's State of Emergency due to the coronavirus pandemic. He says he and other lawmakers are looking at various ways to curtail that power either before or after the pandemic ends. We also discuss his votes on recently approved Police Reform legislation. Goodell says he had "mixed votes" on the issues... voting for allowing recording of encounters with police. However... he voted against complete repeal of Civil Law allowing police records of disciplinary action -- substantiated and otherwise -- to be made public. We also discuss the fact he is running this Fall for re-election to a sixth-term in office.

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Community Spotlight for June 21-28, 2020

State Assemblyman Andy Goodell

June 21st, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank speaks with New York state Assemblyman Andy Goodell about a number of state issues... including the most recent extension of Gov. Andrew Cuomo's State of Emergency due to the coronavirus pandemic. He says he and other lawmakers are looking at various ways to curtail that power either before or after the pandemic ends. We also discuss his votes on recently approved Police Reform legislation. Goodell says he had "mixed votes" on the issues... voting for allowing recording of encounters with police. However... he voted against complete repeal of Civil Law allowing police records of disciplinary action -- substantiated and otherwise -- to be made public. We also discuss the fact he is running this Fall for re-election to a sixth-term in office.

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Community Spotlight for June 14-21, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

June 15th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:05

Our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist this week about a number of topics, including the recent retirement of Deputy Fire Chief Sam Salemme, and Police Chief and Public Safety Director Harry Snellings' pending retirement in July. Sundquist says he now has a "couple of big shoes" to fill. He says Battalion Chief Matt Coon is currently the Acting Deputy Fire Chief until a formal decision is made on a replacement. We also discuss the city's financial situation after City Council approved 1.15-million dollars in cuts to the 2020 budget due to the COVID-19 outbreak and shut-down. He says officials want to see how revenues and state aid starts coming in before deciding on moving to Phase-2 of cuts. We also discuss the need for people to fill out the 2020 Census if they have not already, and the status of City Courts during the pandemic, and now going forward.

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Community Spotlight for June 7-14, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

June 7th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

Our Terry Frank speaks with Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel this week on a number of topic related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this week, the county got the good news that it -- and all of the Western New York region -- entered Phase-Two of reopening, which allows hair salons and barbershops to reopen. In addition, some additional retail can open. A day later, though, outdoor dining was allowed -- with social distancing -- for local restaurants. We also discuss budget matters and getting nearly 150 county workers to take a voluntary furlough to help save the county money. Most revenue areas -- mainly sales tax -- are expected to be way down this year due to cancellations from the pandemic.

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Community Spotlight for June 1-7, 2020

St. Susan's Center Executive Director Bonnie Scott-Sleight

June 1st, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:05

Our Terry Frank talks this week with St. Susan's soup kitchen Executive Director Bonnie Scott-Sleight about the challenges they're facing due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Scott-Sleight says they're doing as well as they can, but, they're kitchen's not open due to the shut-down, and they are distributing bagged lunches through a make shift "drive-thru" for local people in need." She says they have been hampered by a loss of the ability to fund-raise on the eve of the upcoming "Cents for St. Susan's" drive headed up by the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities. Scott-Sleight says they welcome donations of food and other items they can put in their lunches, along with monetary donations. For more information... go to their website or facebook page, or call 664-2253.

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Community Spotlight for May 25-June 1, 2020

Blue Star Mothers local Vice-President Kathy Collver

May 25th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:35

With most Memorial Day programs cancelled or scaled-back, the Blue Star Mothers, Lake Erie Chapter-4 is holding a "drive-in" Memorial Day program in the parking lot of the Chautauqua Mall in Lakewood. Vice-President Kathy Collver talks with our Terry Frank this weekend about the program, which begins at 1 p.m. Monday afternoon, with a special stage set up next to the former Ruby Tuesday restaurant off Fairmount Avenue. Kollver says she got the idea from a similar "drive-in" program held using a special radio frequency for the National Day of Prayer at the mall -- near the former Sears Auto Center. Today's program will feature several dignitaries, with the keynote address given by current Chautauqua County Veteran's Services Director Major Greg Carlson, and two local students will also be taking part. People are encouraged to bring flags, but, observe social distancing by staying in your cars. Collver says the Lakewood Fire Department will also be flying a huge flag off their ladder truck. The program, which begins at 1 p.m. can be heard in the parking lot, or anywhere in the region, on WJTN 1240 AM or 101.3 FM, or at wjtn.com.

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Community Spotlight for May 17-24, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

May 17th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:25

As part of our ongoing coverage of the COVID-19 Pandemic locally, our Terry Frank talks with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist, who is one of two elected officials named to the Western New York Regional Control Room group. They will oversee, and help troubleshoot the region's reopening, once it starts. Sundquist is joined on the panel by Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel. Sundquist says the region is "very close" to being allowed to go to "Phase-One" of the reopening, which would allow more manufacturing, construction, and more curbside retail. WNY -- as of Sunday night -- met six of Governor Andrew Cuomo's seven benchmarks for reopening. We also talk about the Census, and where those numbers are for the 2020 Complete Count. In addition, we talk about the fact the city is now accepting input on two uses for an additional 700,000 dollars in Community Development Block Grant funding from the federal government.

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Community Spotlight for May 10-17, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

May 10th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Interim County Executive P-J Wendel about the COVID-19 Virus outbreak, and plans to reopen sometime in the near future. Governor Andrew Cuomo's "Pause NY" stay-at-home order runs through May 15, so discussions are taking place about opening up some low-risk manufacturing and construction work in the region. Wendel says, the good news is, that testing is being ramped up to the governor's guidelines for reopening, which he says will be a big help in the effort to reopen. We also discuss the county airport, and the fact a proposal for restart commercial air service is making it's way through the U-S Dept. of Transportation.

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Community Spotlight for May 1-3, 2020

Misty Pennington, Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene

May 4th, 2020 05:00am | Duration: 15:29

This week, our Noel Blackhall is joined via telephone with Mental Health Program Coordinator Misty Penningston, to discuss the effects of the Novel Coronavirus and its impact on the mental health of Chautauqua County residents. We know COVID-19 is leaving its mark across the globe, but Pennington tells us that there's no shortage of helplines in the county for treatment and support. More information can be found online at the county's website, CombatAddictionCHQ.com and by calling 716-753-4104.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 26-May 2, 2020

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation Director Tory Irgang on COVID-19 response

April 26th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:58

This week, our Terry Frank speaks with Chautauqua Region Community Foundation Exec. Director Tory Irgang about the new Chautauqua Crisis Response Fund -- COVID-19. The fund was first set up in late March by the foundation, along with the United Ways in both the south and north county areas to help provide funding for critical, local human service organizations because smaller amounts of money will be coming in at a time where their services will likely be needed in greater amounts. Irgang says the fund has raised about 871,000 dollars so far on way to a goal of 1-million dollars. So far, they have doled out about 218,000 to 16 local agencies and organizations. For more information on the fund, and support it, go on-line to the foundation's website, or those of the United Ways of Southern and Northern Chautauqua County.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 20-26, 2020

Salvation Army of Jamestown Major Kim Merchant

April 20th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 12:40

As part of our continuing coverage of the COVID-19 Virus outbreak in Chautauqua County and all of New York State, our Dennis Webster and Russ Diethrick talked late last week with the Salvation Army of Jamestown's Kim Merchant. The major says they have been very busy since the outbreak began, and non-essential businesses had to shut-down. She says for the month of March, they assisted 996 families, or well over 2,000 people. Merchant says that was mostly over the last two weeks of the month. She says they usually serve 650 to 800 a month. Merchant says it's been a huge challenge, mainly because their Red Kettle Campaign late last year came up short. If you would like to donate to the Salvation Army of Jamestown, send a check to them at 83 South Main St., Jamestown, 14701.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 12-19, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

April 12th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:20

Our Terry Frank talks over the phone with Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist to get an update on the city's response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Generally, Sundquist says he's "very proud" of how residents and businesses have responded. He says there were a few cases of people congregating on playground equipment, and basketball courts... which have now been closed. However, the city's parks remain open. We also discuss the decision to prohibit "non-essential" construction work in the city, and what that impacts. We also discuss additional Community Development Block Grant funding the city will be getting from the federal government as part of the recent COVID-19 Stimulus package. We also discuss local business response to needs like masks and hand sanitizer, and what a local pizzeria did for front-line responders and health care workers.

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Community Spotlight for Apr. 5-12, 2020

Chautauqua County Executive P-J Wendel

April 5th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

Our Terry Frank talks by telephone with Interim County Executive P-J Wendel about the on-going response to the COVID-19 outbreak in the county. Wendel says the numbers for the county seen "low" now (18 by Sunday night). However... he's not sure if that's because only a "small amount" of testing has been done because of a lack of those number. Wendel says he's developed a county map by Fire Battalion Districts to outline where cases have been cropping up. We also discuss the status of his 30-day State of Emergency issued back around Mar. 15. He says Governor Andrew Cuomo's current State of Emergency in the state may supercede that. We do talk about the big response by local companies to help make needed supplies and equipment to help support the response. He says both Southern Tier Distilling and 5-&-20 Distillery are making hand sanitizer, while Jamestown Plastics is helping to make face shields for medical personnel, and first-responders. About two-dozen companies in all are making those items and materials.

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 29-April 4, 2020

Congressman Tom Reed on Coronavirus stimulus bill

March 29th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:05

As part of our continuing coverage of the Coronavirus -- or COVID-19 outbreak, we present portions of local Congressman Tom Reed's special Media call Friday afternoon following the vote on the 2.2-trillion dollar, CARES Act... which includes billions of dollars to help individuals who have lost jobs due to the outbreak, along with large and small employers who have also been impacted. There is also additional funding to support health care and efforts to save people from the pandemic. The program features information on how soon the help will be going out, and what kind of help New York state and local communities will be able to get.

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 22-29, 2020

Chautauqua County Executive Coronavirus Update

March 22nd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:10

To keep you informed with the latest information on the Coronavirus outbreak in the state and region, this week, we air portions of the Chautauqua County government's latest update on COVID 19. We have segments with county Health and Human Services Commissioner Christine Schuyler, who says (as of Sunday) there are no reported or confirmed cases of the virus in Chautauqua County. We also have comments from Interim County Executive P-J Wendel about what businesses are considered "essential," and can remain open after 8 p.m. Sunday. Those considered "non-essential" will have to have 100-percent of their workers stay home by NYS order. We also have comments about possible remedies in the news. However, he cautions that those have not yet been fully tested, nor approved.

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Coronavirus State of Emergency declaration in Jamestown

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist and Jamestown School Superintdent Bret Apthorpe

March 16th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 18:50

In light of recent developments concerning the Coronavirus -- or COVID 19 Pandemic, we have replaced the usual Community Spotlight program with Monday morning's press conference held by Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist and School Superintendent Bret Apthorpe to inform people about the city's just-issued State of Emergency declaration, which begins tomorrow. If you have further questions, or need assistance, check their websites at jamestownny.net... or jpsny.org.

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 8-15, 2020

Interim Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel

March 8th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:50

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Chautauqua County Interim Executive P.J. Wendel on the topic of the day... the COVID 19 -- or Coronavirus. Wendel says the county has been working closely with the state to deal with a local outbreak -- if there is one. He says they are taking part in daily phone conferences with Governor Andrew Cuomo's office, and Health and Human Services Director Christine Schuyler was in Albany the past week for a manditory meeting with the state's Health Director. We also discuss development with the recent news of an architectural ceiling manufacturer -- Arktura -- announcing they are locating in the former Acu-Rite/Heidenheim building on Airport Hill. We also get an update on the status of getting Essential Air Service back at the County Airport near Jamestown, and the Cockaigne Ski Center,

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Community Spotlight for Mar. 1-8, 2020

St. Susan's Center Executive Director Bonnie Scott-Sleight

March 1st, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:15

For the first time... St. Susan's Center Director Bonnie Scott-Sleight joins our Terry Frank to talk about her first year-and-a-half of heading up the Jamestown-area's largest soup kitchen. She says she appreciates the community support for St. Susan's, especially the fund-raisers they hold to keep the doors open, and serving meals to the needy. She says they're just finished up the two-time, Soup and a Song events, and adds the Holiday Haul put on by Jamestown Arena Director Keith Martin was another major success. Their annual Basket Sale will be held later in March, as well. She adds they also have a special cooking program with the Iron Chef coming in September with more information coming soon.

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 23-Mar.1, 2020

Chautauqua County Office for the Aging Director Mary Ann Spanos

February 23rd, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

This week, our Terry Frank talks with Chautauqua County Office for the Aging Exec. Director Mary Ann Spanos about the OFA, and how funding looks in both President Trump's federal, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo's proposed state budgets. She says the state budget looks good, with the additional 15-million dollars put in last year in again this year. However, she cautions that some smaller funding sources have had cuts to them. She's hoping the state legislature restores those. We also discuss the OFA's waiting list for in-home health care aids, which is down dramatically through the additional funding. However, she says OFA's statewide would need another 19-million to completely eliminate the lists. We also discuss the fact they are available for health insurance counseling for older adults, and seniors... and, they'll be involved in making sure that everyone -- including seniors -- are counted in the 2020 U.S. Census.

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Community Spotlight for Feb. 16-23, 2020

Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist

February 16th, 2020 12:00am | Duration: 14:55

For the first time since officially taking office, our Terry Frank talks with new Jamestown Mayor Eddie Sundquist about his first 30 to 40 days in office, and how it's gone. Sundquist says they've been challenged by the decision by Alstar EMS to pull out of it's agreement for ambulance service in the city. He says they have now sent out requests for proposals for a new private firm to provide emergency transport, though Alstar will still be available. Sundquist also just recently returned from the 2-and-a-half day New York State Conference of Mayor's Winter Legislative session in Albany. He was part of a small group that lobbied State Senators and Assembly members to increase Arterial Maintenance funding in the 2020-21 budget proposal. The city is still receiving the 220,000 a year it received in 1987.

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Local News

WJTN News Headlines for Jan. 21, 2021

Posted Today At 5:02am

There's been one new death reported from the COVID-19 Virus over the past day in Chautauqua County... bringing the local total to 51 since the pandemic began. The county's Health Departm...